PORTLAND, OR – Southwest Capitol Highway between Southwest Huber Street and Barbur Boulevard is closed in both directions. There are no impacts to Barbur Boulevard. The street will be closed for several hours due to a broken gas service line.

NW Natural is repairing the gas line and our crews will then repair the street.

The traveling public is reminded to stay alert and use caution as traffic may suddenly slow or stop. To avoid traffic delays, travelers are encouraged to use alternate routes around the work site.

The Portland Water Bureau’s Maintenance & Construction crews are ready to respond to emergencies, including water main breaks, 24-hours a day, seven days a week. On average, crews respond to 200 main breaks a year.

This advisory will be updated when the closure has ended.

Case #19-9914 / 19-9917 / 19-9919 / 19-9920 / 19-9946                                               

FIVE MEN ARRESTED IN UNDERCOVER CHILD PREDATOR STING.

On 12-12&13-19, the Milwaukie Police Department conducted a child predator sting where investigators posed on a variety of social media platforms and dating web sites as 15-year-old boys and girls.  While people believed they were interacting online with 15-year-olds, they were actually interacting with undercover officers.  If the adults suggested sex or other sexual acts and then actually arrived at the location they believed the 15-year-old was, they were arrested.

All of the following men were arrested for the felony crimes of luring a minor and online sexual corruption of a child in the first degree:

• Ryan Oesau, 32, Portland, Or
• Loren Sheets, 23, Tigard, Or
• Jonathan Rubio, 43, Willsonville, Or
• Matthew Longo, 23, Vancouver, Wa.

• Jeffrey Nauck, 42, Gladstone, Or.

Matthew Longo, who drove to Clackamas County from Vancouver, was already a registered sex offender for Rape 1 and Sodomy 1.

Parents are strongly encouraged to take an active role in keeping their children safe online and to be aware of the sites and applications their children are using. 

The Milwaukie Police Department was assisted by investigators from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Molalla Police Department and Gladstone Police Department.  These types of stings are run periodically throughout the tri-county area and generally receive support from surrounding agencies.

On December 13, 2019 at approximately 2:53 p.m., McMinnville Police and Fire Department personnel responded to a reported stabbing that had just occurred at the McMinnville Public Library, located at 225 NW Adams Street, McMinnville.

Based upon investigative information an adult male victim was stabbed while in the 2nd floor area of the library. The adult male victim was transported to Willamette Valley Medical Center for initial evaluation and treatment by McMinnville Fire Department ambulance, but was later transported to Oregon Health & Sciences University Hospital. At the writing of the press release, the victim is listed in serious but stable condition.

The adult male suspect was identified based on scene investigation and witness statements as Jose Nicholo Dominguez aka Nico, a 19 year old male from McMinnville. A short time later, Mr. Dominguez was located near 7-11 in the 900 block of SW Baker Street and was detained without further incident.

Mr. Dominguez was transported to the Yamhill County Correctional Facility, where he was initially lodged on allegations of Assault in the 1st Degree.

This incident remains under investigation by the McMinnville Police Department. If you should have any information in relation to the incident, contact Sergeant Steve Macartney at (503) 435-5622 or Steve.Macartney@mcminnvilleoregon.gov

Just before 5:30 PM tonight Portland Firefighters were called to a house on fire on the 4300 block of SE 138th Place. Arriving crews found the fire in a bedroom and quickly knocked it down. There were no injuries reported in association with this fire and a fire investigator is working to determine the fire's cause. The Red Cross has been called to help with shelter for three adults who were displaced by this fire. 

Line 1 departing St Helens 4:25 running 25 minutes behind. 

December 13, 2019

Dominick Gonzales convicted of punching transgender woman, sentenced to probation

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced that 38-year-old Dominick Gonzales changed his plea and was convicted of bias crime in the first degree, a Class C felony, for punching a transgender female in Northwest Portland.

“These bias crimes are extremely hurtful for the victims and our community,” said Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney BJ Park, who prosecuted this case. “Everyone deserves to feel safe. When someone commits a crime, especially one rooted in hate, we must act to ensure accountability.” 

This investigation started on September 29, 2019 when the victim and her friend were standing in line for free coffee and food that was being provided to homeless individuals in the North Park Blocks. The victim, a white female, was wearing a dress when Gonzales approached her and started yelling at the victim for no apparent reason.

While yelling at the victim, Gonzales used racial and homophobic hate speech.

The victim’s friend tried to de-escalate the situation by stepping in between Gonzales and the victim, but Gonzales made multiple attempts to go around the friend while continuing to use homophobic and other derogatory hate speech.

Eventually, Gonzales was able to get in front of the victim and punched her in the face, which split her lower lip open causing it to bleed and swell.

Bystanders immediately rushed over to help the victim and to take Gonzales into custody. Before the bystanders could fully detain him, Gonzales got on a bike and fled the area.

Police arrived, located Gonzales nearby and took him into custody after a short pursuit.

Gonzales changed his plea to count one of the indictment that charged him with bias crime in the first degree.

He received three years of formal probation. During that time, he must complete a mental health evaluation and a separate evaluation for substance abuse disorder and follow all treatment recommendations.

He received 75 days of jail, with credit for time served. Gonzales has been in custody since September 29, 2019. Today marks his 76 day in jail so he will be released to his probation officer and must follow the probation officer’s release plan. While on probation, he will not be allowed to contact the victim or enter the North Park Blocks, located in the 200 block of Northwest Park Avenue.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office recognizes Portland Police Bureau Central Precinct Officer Ryan Potter for his dedicated efforts investigating this case. 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office was an active participant of the Oregon Attorney General’s Hate Crimes Task Force and helped draft the language that was in Senate Bill 577. The law, which went into effect on July 15, 2019, renamed the crime of “intimidation” to “bias crime,” added gender identity to the list of protected categories and removed the requirement that two or more people commit the crime in order to make it a felony in certain circumstances.

All potential bias crime cases, whether they are a felony or misdemeanor, are reviewed by the Violent Crimes Unit within the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. If a misdemeanor crime is issued, the felony-level attorney will retain the case.

If you are the victim of a bias crime assault or you are witnessing one, immediately call 9-1-1. If you are the victim of a bias crime and the suspect is no longer present or if you have information about a bias crime committed in the past, call the non-emergency line at 503-823-3333.

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Phone: 503.988.6567 | Email: Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

Just before noon today PF&R firefighters were called to a house on the 2300 block of North Kilpatrick Street. While calls were coming in to dispatch, Portland Firefighter Maggie Blackwood happened by the scene and noted the homeowner trying to put out the fire with a garden hose. Maggie was off duty and on her way to the library. She helped to move the homeowner away, but not before he suffered injuries related to the fire.

Fire crews arrived and found heavy fire burning on the first floor and in the attic. They were able to extinguish the blaze, but the home suffered extensive damage and will be uninhabitable. The homeowner's injuries were relatively minor and he declined transport to the hospital. The homeowner will be staying with friends. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation.

The second fire was called in just after 1 PM. Fire crews responded to the 1500 Block of North Hayden Island Dr. When they arrived firefighters reported heavy fire throughout the single story residence. The fire was so intense that firefighters were initially forced to fight it from the outside initially. An adult male resident suffered injuries related to this fire. Once the fire was partially knocked down crews were able to move inside to extinguish the remainder of the blaze. The cause of this fire is still under investigation. The injured man was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

This residence will also be uninhabitable due to fire damage. A family of four (two adults and two children) have been displaced and they will be staying with relatives. While house fires are always awful, they can be especially hard on children during the holidays. The Red Cross will be helping the family with food and comfort items and Portland Fire Toy & Joy Makers will be working to replace the childrens presents. Neighbors have also offered assistance to the family. 

Portland Fire encourages our community to think about safety as the weather gets colder. 

1. When inside use safe approved sources of heat (no candles, outdoor heaters or stoves).

2. Avoid using generators indoors.

3. Ensure indoor heaters have tip-over protection and are kept well away from anything that can burn.

4. Make sure that fireplaces are monitored, vents are opened and that chimneys are kept clean.

5. Keep small children out of the kitchen and don't leave items cooking unattended.

Since entering office I’ve worked with my colleagues at city hall and the community around community policing. We’ve brought in experts, funded reports, and co-hosted one of two public forums to hear what the community wants to see when it comes to community policing. A second forum is taking place next Monday, December 16 between 6-8pm at PCC Southeast. Here are my thoughts on what unfolded with Koben Henriksen:

I’m disappointed that we’re myopically pointing fingers at one particular issue rather than taking a deep dive to meaningfully talk about all the systems that failed Mr. Henriksen this past week. This isn’t a question of which system is solely responsible. So yes, I agree that our mental health system could use improvement. But there are other systems that also need improving. Although we cannot draw conclusions about what occurred with Mr. Henriksen until there has been a full investigation, the OIR Group, who conducts annual outside reviews of officer involved shootings, has raised concerns that we have used deadly force too soon. These patterns of behavior have been identified by OIR year after year, and yet people in mental health crisis continue to die of deadly force.

So this is my hope: It’s my hope that we use this opportunity to work on ALL the systems that continue to fail our most vulnerable. Our communities deserve better.

Tualatin Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the male and female shown in the attached picture. 

The suspects were seen on December 8, 2019, at approximately 4:30 pm, committing a theft from a vehicle in the parking lot of the Bridgeport Village Shopping Center. The suspects were seen surveilling the victim as she made a bulk purchase of high dollar electronic items. The victim made several trips from the store to secure the purchased items in her vehicle. While the victim was back in the store, the male suspect broke the window to the victim’s vehicle and stole several bags, valued at $115,000 or more. The female suspect served as the look out.

The suspects were seen leaving the scene in an older model silver Honda Odyssey with temp tags.

The female suspect is linked to an additional theft that took place at a Bridgeport Village electronics store on December 3, 2019 at 5:15pm where over $7000 in merchandise was stolen.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Tualatin Police at 503-691-4800 and reference case #19-19828. Individuals who wish to remain anonymous can call the tip-line at 503-691-0285.

No further information at this time.

https://bit.ly/2Egr7S3 

Case # 19-009940                         Vehicle vs. Pedestrian Crash                   

Date: 12/13/2019

On 12/13/2019 at 11:22 am, Milwaukie Police responded to a vehicle vs. pedestrian crash at the three way intersection of SE 21st Avenue, SE Main Street and SE lake Road. When police arrived on scene they discovered 82-year-old  Donna Lundy, on the ground, in front of a blue Ford minivan.

Medics treated some minor injuries to Mrs. Lundy’s hand and applied a neck brace for precautionary measures prior to AMR transporting her to a local hospital for further evaluation. Mrs. Lundy’s injuries did not appear to be life threatening.

Mrs. Lundy told officers she was crossing SE Main Street, in the crosswalk, towards SE Lake Road. Mrs. Lundy explained she was halfway through the crosswalk when she saw the blue van out of the corner of her eye and tried to get out of the way before being struck.

The driver of the Ford minivan, 84-year-old Genevieve Court, remained on scene and cooperated with the investigation. Mrs. Court told police she was driving on SE main Street and stopped at the stop sign at SE 21st Avenue. Mrs. Court explained her intentions were to continue east onto SE Lake Road. Mrs. Court told police she looked left for approaching traffic, saw none, and began rolling forward into the crosswalk to drive onto SE Lake Road. Mrs. Court said she did not see Mrs. Lundy.

Mrs. Court received a citation for Failure to Stop and Remain Stopped for a Pedestrian/ORS-811.028 and Failure to Carry Proof of Insurance/ORS-806.012. 

Case # 19-009910                                           VEHICLE VS BICYCLIST

Date: 12/12/2019

On 12/12/2019, 27-year-old Austin Latham called the Milwaukie Police to report a vehicle vs. bicycle crash he was involved in on, 12/10/2019.

The investigating officer learned that on 12/10/2019 at approximately 5:00 pm, Mr. Latham was riding his bicycle north-bound on the bike path along SE 17th Avenue and collided with a gray Kia Sol in the crosswalk of SE 17th Avenue and SE Lava Drive, an intersection within the City of Milwaukie.   

Mr. Latham provided the investigating officer with contact information for the driver of the Kia Sol as well as a witness’s phone number. Mr. Latham informed the investigating officer that he went to the hospital the following day with complaints of pain in his left arm and side. Mr. Latham also reported his bicycle may be damaged due to the crash.

Police contacted 29-year-old Evan Melgren, the driver of the Kia Sol. Mr. Melgren explained he was driving south-bound on SE 17th Avenue and turned west onto SE Lava Drive before his vehicle was struck by Mr. Latham and his bicycle. Mr. Melgren told police that Mr. Latham “came out of nowhere” and was travelling at a fast pace when he crashed into the rear driver’s side quarter panel of the Kia Sol. Mr. Melgren told police there were only scuff marks on his vehicle due to the crash, which he said wiped off.  

Police contacted the witness, 56-year-old Todd Sonflieth. Mr. Sonflieth told police he was riding his bicycle south-bound on the bike path just prior to the intersection of SE 17th Avenue and SE Lava Drive. Mr. Sonflieth told police he saw Mr. Latham fail to stop at the posted stop sign on the bike path, prior to entering the intersection, and crashing into Mr. Melgren’s vehicle.

No citations have been issued at this time.

Date:               Monday, December 16, 2019

Time:               5:30-8:00 p.m. Regular Meeting

Location:         Hockinson School District Board Room

Address:          17912 NE 159th St.; Brush Prairie, WA 98606

December 13, 2019

Michael Hart receives prison sentence for shooting child, police officer with BB gun

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced that 45-year-old Michael Hart received a 42 month prison sentence for shooting an 11 year old boy and a Gresham Police officer with a BB gun.

“The facts of this case are especially alarming given the seriousness of the injuries to both the 11 year old boy and the police officer,” said Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Nicole Hermann, who prosecuted this case. “This case involved very complex legal issues. We had multiple judicial settlement conferences with Mr. Hart, his attorney and the court to analyze those complexities. By resolving this matter through pretrial negotiations, we are ensuring Mr. Hart is held accountable for these two random and violent acts in our community.”  

This investigation started on April 24, 2019 when the boy was climbing a tree with his younger brother in the 800 block of Southeast 187th Avenue in Gresham, Oregon.

While outside playing, the boys heard something rapidly hit the tree. Moments later, the boy was shot in the back. At the hospital, doctors determined a BB pellet had traveled through the victim’s clothing, skin and muscle tissue and lodged in his kidney. Doctors deemed it too dangerous to remove the pellet.

The next day, on April 25, 2019, a Gresham Police officer and his partner were conducting a traffic stop near the entrance to an apartment complex in the 800 block of Southeast 187th Avenue. As one of the officers was outside the patrol vehicle, both officers reported hearing a loud pop and whistling noise.

One of the officers was then struck in his elbow by a pellet, which tore a hole through his uniform. The pellet lodged into the officer’s arm and rested on a nerve, which made it too dangerous to be surgically removed. 

During the investigation, law enforcement executed a court-authorized search warrant on Hart’s trailer and located a .177 caliber pellet air rifle and a separate black powder rifle. Officers also located a bedroom window that was open and directly faced both the climbing tree and the location of the traffic stop. The window was covered by a screen that had several pellet-sized holes.

After changing his plea, the court convicted Hart of one count of assault in the third degree and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Upon his release, Hart will be on 36 months of post-prison supervision. 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office was in regular contact with the family of the boy and the Gresham Police officer. All are supportive of today’s pretrial resolution.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office recognizes the Gresham Police Department and Gresham Fire Department for their dedicated efforts investigating this case.

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Phone: 503.988.6567 | Email: Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

The holidays are busy. So are newsroom staff. Our goal is to provide you with a convenient way to gather tips for your viewers/listeners to avoid holiday hassles and tragedies. Fact sheets will be available on each topic.

WHAT:             This event will provide "one-stop” shopping for safety information and visuals for the top holiday safety tips.

WHEN:           Tuesday, December 17 from 1:00-2:00p.m.                     

WHERE:           Clackamas Fire District #1 Training Facility, 16170 SE 130th Ave, Clackamas, 97015                          

TOPICS:           Cooking fires (live fire demonstration) 

                          Christmas tree safety (live fire demonstration)

                          Fire extinguisher use

                          Candle safety

                          Home heating equipment safety and coal/ash disposal

                          Home fire escape planning (safety house demonstration)

                          Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors

                          Electrical cord safety

Vancouver, Wash -- Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle has been appointed to the state’s Tax Structure Work Group as a representative of the Association of Washington Cities.

The work group will direct research and analysis on the current state tax structure, economic competitiveness, taxpayer impacts, and various tax alternatives. It will deliver its findings to the state Department of Revenue by Dec. 1, 2020.

The Tax Structure Work Group was created by the Department of Revenue in response to Washington State Legislature House Bill 1109, which requires an examination of the current tax system and development of tax alternatives.  McEnerny-Ogle will serve with ten other members, representing the House Democratic Caucus, House Republican Caucus, Office of the Governor, Department of Revenue and Washington State Association of Counties.

“I am honored to be appointed to this working group,” said Mayor McEnerny-Ogle. “I am passionate and committed to representing our cities and to engaging in a conversation with the public and mayors throughout the state about the impact, and possible alternatives, of our state’s current tax structure.”

The first meeting of the work group was held on Dec. 3 in Olympia. Meeting dates and materials can be found on the Department of Revenue’s website: https://dor.wa.gov/about/tax-structure-work-group/meeting-dates-and-materials

###

December 13, 2019

James Brittle convicted of burglary for stealing personal and historical items from Gresham residence

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced that 38-year-old James Brittle change his plea and received a 46 month prison sentence for his role in a burglary wherein he unlawfully entered a residence and stole a box of sentimental objects including historical items of the deceased homeowners’ time held in a Japanese internment camp.

“This is a just outcome to this case, and has already provided the victimized family with some closure,” said Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Leslie Wu, who prosecuted this case. “As a result of the Mr. Brittle’s conduct, the victims’ family had to deal with even more stress and grief than that of which normally comes with a family member passing. They have been incredibly patient as this process took place.”

This investigation started on September 15, 2017 at approximately 7:30 a.m. when Gresham Police received information about a suspicious circumstance in the 1200 block of Southeast 4th Street.

Officers learned that a vehicle, occupied with three people, was parked in front of a home, and that multiple people were seen going into the home’s backyard. At least two of the individuals were wearing black hooded sweatshirts.

The neighbor who reported the incident told police she considered the matter suspicious because the previous homeowners had died and that no one except for their immediate family should have been at the property, especially at such an early time in the day.

When police arrived in the neighborhood, they contacted an adult female inside the vehicle parked outside the residence and learned she had an outstanding warrant. She was taken into custody.

When police attempted to take Brittle and another suspect into custody, both ran from officers. Eventually, officers took Brittle and the other suspect into custody without further incident. At the time of his arrest, officers found Brittle in possession of a screwdriver and prying tool.

Officers determined that a back sliding door to the victims’ residence had been pried open. Police found several valuable objects outside the home including several boxes and plastic storage bins containing nearly $6,000 in cash.

Other possessions included historical items related to Japanese internment camps, silverware, documents and jewelry.

During the investigation, police learned that after the homeowners died in 2007, the house was purchased by other family members. It had remained vacant since 2010.

Brittle will have to pay $348.00 in restitution and will be on 36 months of post-prison supervision.

Like in all criminal and civil matters, electronic copies of court documents, which are not subject to a protective order, are available to the public through the Oregon eCourt Information (OECI) system.

No additional information can be released by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office at this time pursuant to the Oregon Rules of Professional Conduct.

The cases against the two other co-defendants are pending. They are innocent unless and until proven guilty.

No photos of the evidence collected as part of this investigation can be released at this point.

This case is being investigated by the Gresham Police Department.

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Phone: 503.988.6567 | Email: rent.Weisberg@mcda.us">Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

PORTLAND, Ore.—Portland resident Isaiah Holt, 31, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana and cocaine, money laundering, and illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Holt is a licensed electrician, motivational speaker, and fitness coach.

According to court documents, beginning in July 2016 and continuing until his arrest in April 2018, Holt used his association with a licensed marijuana producer in Portland to divert state-legal marijuana into the black market. Holt sold marijuana in-person to out-of-state customers traveling to Oregon and by mail to remote customers using the U.S. Postal Service.

Holt recruited two individuals to use their bank accounts to receive and launder proceeds of his marijuana sales. Out-of-state customers would send Holt mailing addresses and deposit payments into bank accounts in the names of various third-party associates. Holt would then direct these associates to withdraw the money from their accounts on his behalf. He used the cash to purchase multiple vehicles that he registered in his girlfriend and co-defendant’s name, Marjorie Livington. Holt also directed Livingston, 39, of Portland, to purchase and register firearms for him using her name.

On April 4, 2018, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) obtained and executed a search warrant on Holt and Livingston’s Northeast Portland residence. Agents found 11.5 grams of cocaine and nearly $2,000 in cash on Holt’s person and drug packaging materials, shipping labels, 14 pounds of marijuana, three firearms, and $46,100 in cash in the residence.

After his arrest and federal indictment, Holt continued to distribute cocaine. From April to August 2019, law enforcement conducted three controlled purchases of cocaine from Holt. While on his way to a fourth pre-arranged buy, Holt eluded a marked police car and later fled on foot, discarding approximately two ounces of cocaine along the way. In total, law enforcement purchased or recovered from Holt approximately 158 grams of cocaine during these purchases.

Conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana and cocaine is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine, and three years’ supervised release. Money laundering is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $500,000 fine or twice the value of property involved, and three years’ supervised release. Illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years’ supervised release.  

Holt will be sentenced on March 9, 2020 by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Michael W. Mosman.

As part of his plea agreement, Holt has agreed to forfeit one Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol, one Ruger AR-556 5.56 caliber rifle, one Taurus 9mm pistol, all seized ammunition, and $46,100 in cash. He has also agreed to pay $32,600 to satisfy a forfeiture money judgement.

Livingston was indicted alongside Holt for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana and making false statements during the purchase of a firearm. She is scheduled to plead guilty to the firearms charge on December 16, 2019.

The case was investigated by ATF, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Portland Police Bureau. It is being prosecuted by Julia Jarrett and Leah Bolstad, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

# # #

Due to several requests for footage of the burglary being committed (see the below release), we have attached a few seconds of the video. We request that due to their ages, the video not be enhanced to the point that the boys’ faces would be identifiable to people who may know them.

We realize that the file did not send. To receive a copy of that video, please email me directly. Thank you!    

Incident # 19-4469 

In the afternoon of December 9, 2019, Keizer police responded to a burglary that occurred at a residence in the 4300 block of Shoreline Drive North. After speaking with the homeowner, officers and detectives were able to establish that while the residents were away, two male juveniles were recorded on the home’s surveillance system entering the home through a pet door at the back of the house. Once inside, the two juvenile suspects spent several minutes stealing numerous items, including a handgun, multiple cell phones, and an expensive watch.

Pictures created from the home’s surveillance system were posted on social media by the victim. Someone viewing that social media post recognized one of the boys and officers were able to contact him at his home, which was close by the victim’s residence, after 8:00 P.M., the same evening. Detectives recovered some of the stolen property in the boy’s backpack. Two days later, further investigation led investigators to the second suspect, who lives nearby the first suspect. Additional stolen items were recovered from the second suspect’s residence. All the stolen items were recovered and returned to the owner.   

The boys, aged 12 and 16, were taken to the Marion County Juvenile Detention, both charged with burglary 1.

The City of Salem continues to place a high priority on improving bicycle and pedestrian safety measures in our community. 

The Safer Pedestrian Crossings Program now makes it easier than ever for Salem residents to share their concerns and help to guide these efforts.  Using the new online application, residents can quickly report particular street crossings of concern and submit a request for safety improvements. An interactive street map allows users to quickly call out a location of concern, view other safety improvement requests, see how each project request is prioritized, and track the status of each request.  

To address these recommendations, $125,000 has been allocated annually for the design and construction of pedestrian safety crossings in the adopted FY 2020 – 2024 Capital Improvement Plan. This Plan is reviewed and approved by City Council each year.  These funds come from the City’s share of the Oregon State Gas Tax.

The Safer Pedestrian Crossings Program was one of several recommendations that came about as a result of a Pedestrian Safety Study completed in March 2018.  A Project Advisory Committee, that included representatives from the City,  Salem’s neighborhood associations, the Salem-Keizer School District, Cherriots, and other organizations guided the development of this program.  

Those interested in learning more about the Safer Pedestrian Crossings Program, transportation safety improvement projects, or all of the other ways the City is working to make it safer for everyone who drives, walks, or bikes in Salem, please visit the City’s website.

We’re investing in your safety

Through the FY 2020-2024 Capital Improvement Plan, we are making many improvements to Salem’s transportation system designed to make it safer for walkers, bikers and motorists. Brown Road NE reconstruction to include new sidewalks and bicycle lanes, is just one of the most recent examples. Examples of other additions include:

• Rapid flashing beacons and median islands at busy crossings around the city
• Buffered bike lanes for High and Church streets downtown
• New speed signs and speed humps on the Winter-Maple Neighborhood Greenway
• New, wider Court Street pedestrian bridge
• Four new speed-monitoring cameras at high-volume intersections

We’re also installing 41 new streetlights around Salem through April 2020.  In this second year of installation, the majority of streetlight need, and greatest benefit are planned for north and northeast Salem. Your streetlight fees help fund infill lighting to help prevent crime and improve safety for motorists, bicycle riders and pedestrians. Request a new streetlight in your neighborhood to be included on a future priority list. 

It’s still up to you

Despite the many new city safety mechanisms in place, nothing can substitute for personal caution whether you are driving, walking or bicycling.

It is particularly important during fall and winter months, when fog, clouds, rain and darkness reduce visibility. Here are some safety suggestions for all manners of transportation:

Be visible at all times. Wear light or bright clothing during the day, or reflective materials at night, and keep your lights on or a flashlight in hand any time visibility is poor, but particularly at night.

Be predictable. Don’t make sudden changes. Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.

Never assume you are visible to another party. Make eye contact to make sure you are seen.

Be alert at all times.

Linn County Sheriff Jim Yon reports on December 12, 2019, approximately 5:08 p.m., his deputies investigated a fatal motor vehicle crash involving a single vehicle on North Coburg Road, north of Coburg. 

The investigation revealed James Leroy Baker, 63, of Harrisburg was alone and traveling southbound on North Coburg Road.  For an unknown reason his 1993 Nissan minivan left the roadway and rolled.  It came to rest on the roof in a ditch approximately 10 feet from the roadway.    Baker was wearing his seat belt at the time of the crash.  Neither speed, nor alcohol appear to be a factor.  The crash vehicle was discovered by someone driving by after it had occurred but was not witnessed.

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Coburg and Harrisburg Fire Departments and Fisher Funeral Home.

This crash remains under investigation.

Friday, December 13, 2019 – Ridgefield, WA –  Since 1960, an old, single-lane wooden bridge has carried traffic to the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge.  But now a wide concrete span arcs high above the old bridge, ready to serve the Refuge for decades to come.  And the first vehicle to cross it was a school bus of students from South Ridge Elementary and Ridgefield High School.  The students were on their way to a tree planting project at the River S Unit—but they stopped to do a quick ribbon cutting on the way. 

In the center of the new bridge, representatives from the Refuge, Ridgefield’s City Council, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Western Federal Lands Highway Division, construction contractor Ceccanti, the Sevier family (the original owners of the land), and other citizens stood for a short ceremony.  After eleven years of planning, the bridge was opening to traffic for the first time.  Kevin Forester, regional chief for the National Wildlife Refuge System, welcomed the students.  “That’s our future there behind us, the kids,” he said.  “They’re going down and planting trees today, so they’re going to be the first ones to officially cut the ribbon and come across the bridge.”

The students filed off the bus and lined up behind a double row of caution tape.  On cue, they cut the ribbon to open the bridge, and the crowd cheered.  Eric Anderson, the Refuge’s acting project leader, told them they could take a piece of ribbon home with them as a keepsake if they wanted.  “I’m not using it again,” he joked.  “So it’s all yours.”

Then the students re-boarded the bus to head toward the Kiwa Trail.  Jackie Bergeron’s fourth grade class researched the yellow-billed cuckoo as part of their project-based learning.  The yellow-billed cuckoo population has declined significantly in the northwest, and the students wanted to see if they could help change it.  The tree planting would help restore the cuckoo’s preferred habitat. 

Bergeron’s class was joined by the officers from a new environmental awareness organization from Ridgefield High School, International Teens Upholding Nature Association (iTuna).  Together, they learned from the park rangers how to plant the trees, gently separating the tree roots out, covering the area with weed cloth, staking the tree so it would stand straight, and caging the tree to protect it from hungry animals.  Soon the students were all working in teams, planting trees on their own. 

Bergeron plans to make this an ongoing project.  “This is a project that we’re going to do for years.  This is the first class.  In the spring, they’re going to make new cuttings that we’re going to grow.  Then my next class will come and plant those.  So the idea is to truly be a part of helping restore this habitat back to what it natively should have been.”  

The students got some close-up views of native wildlife as they worked, with a whitetail deer crashing through the blackberries nearby, birds chirping overhead in the tree canopy, and tiny green chorus frogs hopping near the tree plantings.  They hope that with the new trees, the yellow-billed cuckoo will one day rejoin the rest of the wildlife by the Kiwa trail.  In the meantime, they know the plantings will be there for the wildlife that lives at the Refuge—and that they had a part in helping protect it. 

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Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring. Monitoring results were received from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50-liters sampled daily, between Sunday, Dec. 8 and Wednesday, Dec. 11, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in each of the samples collected on Dec. 8 and Dec. 9. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on Dec. 10 or Dec. 11. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on Dec. 4, 2019.

The Bull Run watershed is Portland’s primary source of drinking water. The Portland Water Bureau does not currently treat for Cryptosporidium, but is required to do so under drinking water regulations. Portland is working to install filtration by September 2027 under a compliance schedule with Oregon Health Authority. In the meantime, Portland Water Bureau is implementing interim measures such as watershed protection and additional monitoring to protect public health. Consultation with public health officials has concluded that at this time, customers do not need to take any additional precautions.

Exposure to Cryptosporidium can cause cryptosporidiosis, a serious illness. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach pain. People with healthy immune systems recover without medical treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with severely weakened immune systems are at risk for more serious disease. Symptoms may be more severe and could lead to serious or life-threatening illness. Examples of people with weakened immune systems include those with AIDS; those with inherited diseases that affect the immune system; and cancer and transplant patients who are taking certain immunosuppressive drugs.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has estimated that a small percentage of the population could experience gastro-intestinal illness from Cryptosporidium and advises that customers who are immunocompromised and receive their drinking water from the Bull Run Watershed consult with their healthcare professional about the safety of drinking the tap water. The Portland Water Bureau and Burlington, City of Gresham, City of Sandy, City of Tualatin, Green Valley, GNR, Hideaway Hills, Lake Grove, Lorna Domestic Water, Lusted, Palatine Hill, Pleasant Home, Raleigh, Rockwood, Skyview Acres, Tualatin Valley, Two Rivers, Valley View and West Slope Water Districts receive all or part of their drinking water supply from the Bull Run. To learn if your drinking water comes from Bull Run, please contact your local drinking water provider.

The public and the media are encouraged to view all sampling results posted to the City’s website at portlandoregon.gov/water/cryptoresults. The bureau will notify the media and public immediately should further test results indicate a risk to public health and precautions are necessary.

Customers with questions regarding water quality can call the Water Line at 503-823-7525.

On Thursday night, December 12, 2019, the Philomath High School was the target of a potential attack communicated on social media. 

A student’s Facebook account was hacked and used to distribute a threat toward their school. 

At 2:00 am this morning our Computer Fonensics Detectives determined that the student’s Facebook account was indeed hacked. An IP address was traced to Colorado. Authorities in Colorado made contact with a 16-year-old male, who hacked the Facebook account and sent the threatening message. The individual admitted hacking the account and sending out the threatening message. The reason was to ‘troll’ the account on Friday, the 13th. 

Benton County Sheriff’s Office and Philomath Police have confirmed that the threat toward PHS is a hoax. 

School is open today and Philomath Police Department and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office are providing extra presence this morning.

The Philomath High School Principal has assured the parents and students that there is no threat toward the school. “It is unfortunate that such an event has touched our community,” Mike Bussard stated. “Rest assured our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and community at large.”

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office takes these threats seriously and called in extra resources to resolve the issue quickly.

On December 12th, 2019, shortly before 10:00 pm, deputies were dispatched to an armed robbery at a convenience store just north of Keizer.  When deputies arrived at the Center Market, located at 9005 River Road N, the clerk reported an unknown male had pointed a handgun at them and demanded money from the cash register.  Deputies were able to determine the armed robber fled the location in a white Honda 2-door, last seen going southbound toward Keizer.

A short time later, Keizer Police located a white Honda matching the description of the vehicle used in the robbery unoccupied in a parking lot at Keizer Station.  The Honda had been reported to the Salem Police as having been stolen earlier in the day.  As additional law enforcement were responding to the area, the suspect was spotted by a Keizer Police Officer and a short foot pursuit ensued through the shopping center parking lots.  The suspect was ultimately safely taken into custody.  A handgun believed to have been used during the robbery was recovered after being located in the area by a police K9. 

The suspect has been identified as Justin Lavalley, a 39 year-old Dallas man.  Lavalley has been lodged at the Marion County Jail for charges including; Robbery 1, Theft 1, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Menacing, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and a Parole Violation.

Sheriff Joe Kast stated, “The timely arrest of this armed robbery suspect was the direct result of great communication between our deputies, dispatchers, and officers from the Keizer Police Department.  The strong relationships we have with our public safety partners continue to benefit our community time and time again.”

Lavalley is scheduled for arraignment on Friday, December 13th at 3:00 pm at the Marion County Circuit Court Annex.

Robert William Havery, 39, of Boise Idaho was arrested Thursday morning, December 12, 2019, and lodged in the Ada County Jail on felony charges stemming from his involvement with Mildred Sweaney, a 17-year old girl missing from Junction City, Oregon.

Mildred was originally reported missing from her Junction City home on Saturday, December 7, 2019 when she failed to return from a walk around the neighborhood.  The Junction City Police Department immediately launched an intensive media campaign concurrently with an aggressive investigation to locate any possible leads.  During a lengthy interview of many family and friends on Sunday night, Havery’s name was identified as a possible person of interest.  Upon making phone contact with Havery investigators found him to be uncooperative and later determined he had actually provided a false address.  With further investigation Havery’s complete identity was determined, as was his true address.

Investigators from the Boise Police Department Special Victim’s Unit responded to Havery’s residence early Tuesday morning, found Mildred, and took her into protective custody.  By this morning investigators developed sufficient probable cause to take Havery into custody.  During the ensuing investigation Havery admitted, in addition to other details, to driving to Junction City where he met Mildred and then the two drove back to his Boise house.  Havery was lodged at the Ada County Jail on two (2) counts of Sexual Battery on a minor [Idaho State Code 18-1508A], and one (1) count of 1st degree Kidnapping [Idaho State Code 18-4502].  However, the investigation is ongoing both in Oregon and Idaho and additional charges may be forthcoming.

December 12, 2019

Media contact: Robb Cowie, 503-421-7684, obb.cowie@dhsoha.state.or.us">robb.cowie@dhsoha.state.or.us

OHA approves Yamhill Community Care for full five-year coordinated care contract

The Oregon Health Authority has granted Yamhill Community Care a full five-year contract to serve Oregon Health Plan members through 2024. Earlier this year, Yamhill Community Care received a one-year contract pending the completion of additional steps to meet new "CCO 2.0" requirements. Services for the new contract begin January 1, 2020.

Yamhill Community Care serves OHP members in all of Yamhill county, as well as portions of Polk and Washington counties.

In July OHA announced its intent to award 15 organizations with contracts to serve as coordinated care organizations for OHP. Eleven CCOs received full five-year contracts. Four applicants – including Yamhill Community Care – received one-year contracts. OHA required the four CCOs to show evidence they had the policies, procedures, and plans in place necessary to meet the goals of CCO 2.0.

Under CCO 2.0, all 15 coordinated care organizations will be expected to meet new goals approved by the Oregon Health Policy Board and endorsed through an extensive and intensive public engagement process. These goals are to: improve behavioral health, address social factors that affect the health of OHP members and contribute to health inequities, pay providers for value and slow cost growth in Oregon’s Medicaid program.

Since the summer, OHA has worked with Yamhill Community Care to address gaps in their CCO 2.0 plans and document their ability to meet the higher CCO 2.0 bar.

"The goals of CCO 2.0 are to improve results for OHP members and accelerate the transformation of Oregon’s health care system so health care is more affordable for consumers and taxpayers," OHA director Patrick Allen said. "Yamhill Community Care has demonstrated their commitment to meeting the expectations of CCO 2.0. We look forward to partnering with Yamhill Community Care over the next five years to make people and families healthier across the communities they serve."

About coordinated care organizations: Oregon first established CCOs in 2012 to transform health care delivery in the state. CCOs bring together physical, behavioral, and oral health providers to coordinate care for people on the Oregon Health Plan. They improve health and reduce costs by providing more coordinated, flexible and innovative services. CCOs are rewarded for achieving specific health outcomes and quality measures.

Vancouver, Wash. – The first case of severe lung disease associated with vaping has been reported in Clark County. A woman in her 40s was hospitalized due to lung injury and is now recovering.

A local medical provider reported the illness to Clark County Public Health. The woman reported vaping products containing nicotine and THC. The products were purchased at local licensed retailers.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and state and local health departments are investigating a national outbreak of lung injuries associated with vaping products.

As of Dec. 10, the CDC reports 2,409 hospitalized cases of vaping-associated lung injury and 52 deaths. In Washington, 21 cases have been reported in nine counties, including Clark County.

Cases nationally and in Washington have reported using only THC products, only nicotine products or both nicotine and THC products, as well as other vapor products. The CDC has not identified a single ingredient, brand or source of illness in the national outbreak, and there may be more than one cause. The CDC has identified Vitamin E acetate as a chemical of concern among people with lung injury.

“We still don’t know what is causing this outbreak, and there may be more than one cause,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County health officer and Public Health director. “People should not use any vapor products.”

Those who need help quitting tobacco or vaping products should contact their primary care provider or call the Washington Tobacco Quitline, 800.QUIT.NOW, for access to safe, evidence-based treatments. The Washington State Department of Health also offers free cellphone apps for those interested in quitting vaping or tobacco.

Those who continue to use vapor products should monitor themselves for symptoms, such as cough, shortness of breath and chest pain, and promptly seek medical attention if they have concerns about their health.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, William E. Shelters, died the morning of December 12, 2019. Shelters was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary and passed away in the infirmary. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Shelters entered DOC custody on March 18, 2010, from Lane County with an earliest release date of July 23, 2038. Shelters was 70 years old.

Attempts to locate next of kin have not been successful. The department asks anyone familiar with the deceased to contact one of the numbers listed above.  

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of 14,700 individuals who are incarcerated in 14 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

OSP is Oregon's only maximum-security prison, located in Salem, and houses over 2,000 individuals. OSP is surrounded by a 25-foot-high wall with 10 towers. The facility has multiple special housing units including death row, disciplinary segregation, behavioral health, intermediate care housing, and an infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care. OSP participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including the furniture factory, laundry, metal shop, and contact center. It provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, work-based education, inmate work crews, and pre-release services. OSP was established in 1866 and, until 1959, was Oregon's only prison.

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Incident # 19-4469

In the afternoon of December 9, 2019, Keizer police responded to a burglary that occurred at a residence in the 4300 block of Shoreline Drive North. After speaking with the homeowner, officers and detectives were able to establish that while the residents were away, two male juveniles were recorded on the home’s surveillance system entering the home through a pet door at the back of the house. Once inside, the two juvenile suspects spent several minutes stealing numerous items, including a handgun, multiple cell phones, and an expensive watch.

Pictures created from the home’s surveillance system were posted on social media by the victim. Someone viewing that social media post recognized one of the boys and officers were able to contact him at his home, which was close by the victim’s residence, after 8:00 P.M., the same evening. Detectives recovered some of the stolen property in the boy’s backpack. Two days later, further investigation led investigators to the second suspect, who lives nearby the first suspect. Additional stolen items were recovered from the second suspect’s residence. All the stolen items were recovered and returned to the owner.   

The boys, aged 12 and 16, were taken to the Marion County Juvenile Detention, both charged with burglary 1.

Forty students from Battle Ground Public Schools have been named to the North County Honor Band in recognition of their exceptional musical abilities. On Saturday, Feb. 1, the students will perform in the Honor Band’s seventh annual concert at Hockinson High School at 6 p.m. The concert is free and open to the public.

A selection committee comprising local band directors reviewed applications and selected students for the honor band based on their musical accomplishments with input from band directors. Students selected for the opportunity receive a quality music education experience that challenges them as musicians while working with esteemed guest conductors and performing alongside peers from neighboring school districts.

Congratulations to the following students for being selected to this year’s Honor Band:

Amboy Middle School eighth graders Zoe Richins (clarinet) and Caitlin Stonecypher (trumpet).

Chief Umtuch Middle School eighth graders Brendan Doughty (flute), Julianne Hart (flute), Abigail Johnson (flute), David Josephson (trumpet), Makayla Lynch (alto saxophone), Sora Tolley (alto saxophone), Clair Moss (baritone saxophone), and Hannah McIntyre (bass).

Daybreak Middle School eighth graders Connor O'Donnell-Field (trumpet) and Lindsay Velasco (tenor saxophone).

Laurin Middle School eighth graders Callan Bixler (clarinet) and Natalie Coughran (flute).

Pleasant Valley Middle School eighth graders Lille Amies (percussion), Brodie Collins (percussion - mallets), Amarra Hopson (flute), Alijah Machida (tenor saxophone), Colton McCall (percussion), Haleigh Rich (clarinet), and Henry Thoma (clarinet).

Tukes Valley Middle School eighth graders Peyton Dietel  (trombone), Matthew Long (tuba), Grady McHenry (French horn), and Aidan Oldham (trumpet).

Battle Ground High School freshmen Christian Blodgett (trumpet) and Logan Ogle (French horn); sophomore Ian Arellano (tenor saxophone); and juniors Ryan Duffy (clarinet), Evy Wacker (flute), Kaelyn White (alto saxophone), and Jacob Williams (trombone).

Prairie High School freshman Rachel Wyman (flute); sophomores Matthew Lakey (tuba) and Shelby McCombs (trombone); juniors Jordan McCready (bassoon), Anthony Pittman (bass) and Kyle Wilson (flute); and seniors Mahlia Bump (clarinet) and Heidi Russon (flute).

Congratulations to the Battle Ground High School Advanced Jazz Band on taking first place at the Skyview Jazz Festival on Saturday, December 7! The annual festival features high school and middle school big bands and combos. All ensembles receive constructive feedback from adjudicators. This year’s theme was “A Storm of Cool Jazz” and featured guest artists from the River City Riot Brass Band.

In addition to BGHS’ Advanced Jazz Band taking home top honors, Prairie High School’s Jazz Band 1 placed third in the Advanced Division, and Chief Umtuch Middle School’s Advanced Jazz Band placed second in the Middle School Division.

Top soloist awards were presented to Battle Ground High School’s Ashton Hemming (saxophone) and Mallory Meyer (trombone); Prairie High School’s Isaac Moroshan (trumpet); and Chief Umtuch Middle School’s Sora Tolley (alto saxophone), Jake Grevstad (trombone), and Jayden Corey (drums).

PacificSource Community Solutions Contracts with Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics

(SALEM, Ore.) December 12, 2019— PacificSource Community Solutions, a Coordinated Care Organization (CCO), has contracted with Salem Health Hospital and Clinics to serve as part of the organization’s provider network beginning January 1, 2020. PacificSource Community Solutions recently signed a contract with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) to serve as the CCO in Marion and Polk Counties.

“We are pleased to welcome Salem Health to PacificSource Community Solutions’ provider network, and we look forward to working together to serve the health care needs of Marion and Polk County’s CCO population,” said Ken Provencher, president and CEO of PacificSource.

“At Salem Health, our mission is to improve the health and well-being of the community we serve. We look forward to collaborating with PacificSource to ensure that together we deliver the highest quality care to the residents of the Mid-Willamette Valley,” said Cheryl Wolfe, CEO and President of Salem Health.

About Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics:

Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics, established in 1896, is a community-based, not-for-profit health care provider for Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley and is made up of Salem Hospital, West Valley Hospital, Salem Health Medical Clinics and numerous other affiliated services.

About PacificSource:

PacificSource Community Solutions is part of the PacificSource family of companies serving its Medicaid members. PacificSource Health Plans is an independent, not-for-profit community health plan serving the Northwest. Founded in 1933, PacificSource is based in Oregon, with offices throughout the state as well as in Idaho, Montana, and Washington. The PacificSource family of companies employs more than 1100 people, serves more than 320,000 individuals, and has 3,900 employer clients throughout the Northwest. For more information visit PacificSource.com.

The man who died in last night’s shooting was Kevin Marshall, 21, of Hillsboro. An autopsy revealed Marshall died of a single gunshot wound to the head.

Detectives released the man detained as a person of interest without charges. His name is not being released at this time.

The investigation is ongoing, and further details are not released. Anyone with information is asked to call Hillsboro Police at 503-629-0111.

Greetings and happy Thursday from Pacific University, where most students have completed their final exams and boarded planes, trains or automobiles for home.

Here's some of what's happening here:

History Professor Richard Jobs Speaks at European Museum About Transnational Youth

Small scholarship, big payoff: Student parlays $500 into a new career

Albertson's supports School of Pharmacy scholarships, training and more

U.S. is "within hair's breadth" of losing its civil liberties, former Rep. Les AuCoin tells Pacific audience

And here are a few events on the university calendar:

Women's Basketball vs. Multnomah University
Dec. 13, 6-8 p.m. | Stoller Center, Gym 

PUB Night with Professor Aaron Greer
Dec. 13, 7 p.m. | Portland 

JV Men's Basketball vs. Grays Harbor Community College
Dec. 13, 8-10 p.m. | Stoller Center, Gym 

JV Women's Basketball vs. Christian Faith Club
Dec. 14, 4-6 p.m. | Stoller Center, Gym 

JV Men's basketball vs. Christian Faith
Dec. 14, 6-8 p.m. | Stoller Center, Gym 

Winter Break Begins
Dec. 16

Women's Basketball vs. NW Christian University
Dec. 17, 3-5 p.m. | Stoller Center, Gym 

Men's Basketball vs. University of Mary Washington
Dec. 18, 7-9 p.m. | Stoller Center, Gym 

To see more events, consult the complete university calendar.

— pacificu.edu —

Pacific University is a diverse learning community, where students thrive in a personal academic environment. Students study in a unique combination of undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in the liberal arts and sciences, business, education, health professions and optometry. Located in Oregon, Pacific serves a diverse population of more than 3,900 students, with campuses in Forest Grove, Hillsboro, Eugene and Woodburn, as well as healthcare clinics throughout the Portland area. Pacific is currently ranked the No. 1 private research university in the Pacific Northwest and is also committed to civic engagement, sustainability and interprofessional education as part of its core teaching philosophy.

Editors: Health officials and lead specialists are available for interviews from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. today (Dec. 12) in Room 1B on the first floor of the Oregon Health Authority, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. Samples of contaminated products will be displayed.

December 12, 2019

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie, OHA, 971-246-9139, phd.communications@dhsoha.state.or.us Kate Willson, Multnomah County, 503-410-4524, kate.willson@multco.us Wendy Gordon, Washington County, 503-849-9117, don@co.washington.or.us">wendy_gordon@co.washington.or.us

Alarming lead levels found in certain traditional cosmetics, turmeric

Health officials warn families to avoid dangerous products, get kids tested

PORTLAND, Ore. — State and local health officials have discovered alarming levels of lead — in some cases tens of thousands of times higher than federal guidelines — in traditional cosmetics used in Hindu and Muslim religious practices and South and Southeast Asian cultures. In addition, high lead levels have been found in the spice turmeric, particularly in smaller batches brought in from overseas by individual travelers.

Washington and Multnomah counties, together with the Oregon Health Authority, are asking families and health care providers to learn about the risks and make sure children and pregnant women have their blood levels tested if they have been exposed to potentially lead-tainted products.

Working with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in an ongoing investigation, officials are asking community organizations, faith groups and local businesses to help identify dangerous products and educate community members about the risks of lead poisoning.

“We fully respect the deep cultural and spiritual traditions of our diverse communities,” said Ali Hamade, Ph.D., toxicologist and deputy state epidemiologist, OHA Public Health Division. “Children and pregnant women are most vulnerable to lead poisoning, so we’re asking for help from families, community leaders, shop owners and public agencies to recognize the risk and prevent harm.”

Products of concern

The following products have been found to contain dangerous levels of lead:

Sindoor, Kumkum, Tikka, and Roli

These bright red-orange powders are commonly used for Hindu religious purposes and among communities from and around South Asia. Lead is sometimes used to brighten the color or to increase the weight of the product. People can be exposed to lead when powders that contain lead enter the body through the eyes or mouth.

Health officials have discovered high lead content in samples of sindoor purchased locally under the brands:

• Ancient Veda Sindoor, 37% lead, 37,000 times the FDA-recommended limit.
• Divine Supplies Sindoor, 43% lead, 43,000 times the FDA-recommended limit.

Kohl

Also known as kajal, surma or sormeh, this black ore is applied to the eyes for spiritual, medicinal or cosmetic purposes. It is traditionally used on babies and young children for religious purposes. The FDA has banned the import of kohl because one way of making the product is by grinding a mineral called galena — also known as lead ore — into a powder and then mixing it with other ingredients.

Multnomah County has found lead in products purchased locally and abroad, including in the brands:

• Hashmi Surma Special, 17% lead, 17,000 times the recommended limit.
• Al-Asmad Alharmain Zam Zam & Rose Water, 59% lead, 58,600 times the recommended limit.

Turmeric

This yellow-orange root and spice is used frequently in South Asian cuisine, medicine and traditional practices. It has become widely used around the world. Lead powder is sometimes added to turmeric root or powder to make the product more vibrant and to cover insect damage. People are then exposed to the lead when that spice is eaten. Health officials are primarily concerned about the spice hand-carried into the United States from India or Bangladesh, rather than products sold in major U.S. supermarkets.

One recent sample brought from India contained 1,240 parts per million of lead. There is no FDA regulatory limit or recommendation for lead in spice, but for reference, the FDA has set a limit of 0.1 parts per million for candy likely to be consumed frequently by children.

Recommendations to consumers

Public health officials and local health experts are urging families to stop using these products on children and pregnant women. They also recommend blood lead testing if pregnant women or children may have been exposed to lead by using these products.

Families and shop owners can call the Multnomah County Health Department Leadline at 503-988-4000 or visit www.leadline.org to learn more about lead testing for children and products. Additional information is available at healthoregon.org/lead.

Local health officials are working with culturally specific community groups, store owners and religious leaders to warn residents of risks associated with certain products. They’re asking shop owners, families and community leaders to contact their local public health department with any concerns, questions or requests for community outreach (interpretation is always free):

• Washington County Health Care Resource Line: 503-846-8851
• Multnomah County Leadline: 503-988-4000

OHA and county officials are working with the FDA to test more products and consider whether alerts should be in place to stop the import of any product known to have dangerous levels of lead. Until the source and scope of the lead contamination are better understood, local health officials are also asking shop owners to protect their customers by removing products known to contain lead and testing products that may contain lead.

Risk of lead

Oregon considers a blood lead level of at least 5 micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood as the threshold for lead poisoning. Health care providers and laboratories in Oregon are required by law to report certain diseases and conditions — including lead poisoning — to local health departments.

On average, 270 Oregonians are diagnosed with lead poisoning each year, and about one-third of those are children younger than 6. The most common cases — about a third — come from ingesting paint and paint dust containing lead, but exposures from traditional cosmetics and informally imported spices have been identified in the past.

But between 2018 and 2019, state and local health departments in Oregon have identified 25 lead poisoning cases where the probable source was kohl or surma and an additional seven lead poisoning cases where the probable source was turmeric brought from overseas. A small number of lead poisoning cases have also been associated with exposure to powders such as sindoor or kumkum.

Resources for Media

Lead Poisoning Media Kit

On Wednesday, 12-11-2019, at about 5:15 PM, Lincoln City Police were dispatched to the Safeway store parking lot on a report of an attempted robbery that had just occurred. The female victim reported that she and her mother had just finished shopping at the Safeway store, located at 4101 NW Logan Road, and were in the parking lot loading her groceries in the rear of her mini-van. While doing this an early 2000's model silver Chevrolet Suburban pulled up behind her. The female driver of the Suburban rolled down her passenger side window and demanded the victim’s purse. The victim reported the suspect was pointing a handgun at her as she was demanding the purse. The female victim responded by saying she was going to call the police and quickly ran into the store and called 911. The suspect then fled the parking lot in her vehicle and was last seen on Logan Road heading towards Highway 101. It's unknown which direction the suspect took on Highway 101.

Lincoln City Police officers searched the area for the silver Suburban and suspect, but they were unable to locate it. The suspect female was described to be a white female in her late 30's to early 40's with blonde "poofy" shoulder length hair. The suspect female was the only person seen inside the vehicle, however it is not confirmed if there was anyone else in the vehicle at the time.

The suspect did not get the victim’s purse or any other items from her. The investigation of the incident remains open and anyone with information regarding the incident or suspect is asked to call the Lincoln City Police Department at 541-994-3636 and ask for Officer James Hoydic or Detective James Burke.

The members of the Lincoln City Police Department want to remind everyone to stay safe by being alert and remaining aware when walking out to their vehicles after doing their shopping, especially when carrying and loading packages during this holiday season.  

Submitted By:   Sergeant Jeffrey G. Winn

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on December 17, 2019, in the Board Room at 11611 NE Ainsworth Circle, Portland, OR 97220.

After a thorough initial investigation of the gym fire at South Albany High School by the Albany Police Department and the Albany Fire Investigation Group, the fire does not appear to be suspicious in nature.   We believe sharing a piece of the investigative conclusions in a timely manner is important for the healing and peace of mind for our South Albany High students, teachers, and the whole of our Albany community. 

The investigation is still ongoing.  The final cause determination will be shared in the full fire investigation report.  Report completion date is expected within the next 2-4 weeks.     

The Oregon Department of Forestry will host a follow-up public input and Q&A session on the draft revised Western Oregon State Forest Management Plan on Tuesday, Jan. 14 at the Oregon Department of Forestry in Salem.

This will serve as another opportunity for interested Oregonians to ask questions and provide input to project staff prior to finalizing the draft revised plan. RSVP is requested by clicking here.

What: Public Input and Q&A Session on draft revised Western Oregon State Forest Management Plan
When: 1-4 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020
Where: Oregon Department of Forestry (Tillamook Room), 2600 State St., Salem 97310

The agency will be accepting comment on the plan through Jan 31, 2020. To read and learn more about the draft revised plan, please visit the project page by heading here: https://www.oregon.gov/ODF/AboutODF/Pages/FMP-revision.aspx

In addition to attending the Jan. 14 meeting, there are several more ways Oregonians can comment on the plan:

• This convenient online survey asks how the current Forest Management Plan is delivering desired outcomes as well as your take on the revised plan: https://arcg.is/1rz8uS
• Comments may be emailed to odf.sfcomments@oregon.gov or submitted through the ODF website
• Comments can also be mailed to ODF Public Affairs, 2600 State St., Salem OR 97310

This meeting is open to the public. Questions about accessibility or special accommodations can be directed to the Oregon Department of Forestry at least 48 hours prior to the meeting at 503-945-7200.

The Oregon Department of Forestry will host a public input and Q&A session on the draft revised Western Oregon State Forest Management Plan on Friday, Dec. 20 in Astoria.

This will serve as an opportunity to ask questions and provide input to project staff prior to finalizing the draft revised plan. 

What: Public Input and Q&A Session on draft revised Western Oregon State Forest Management Plan
When: 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 20
Where: Judge Guy Boyington Building, 857 Commercial St., Astoria 97103

The agency will be accepting comment on the plan through Jan. 31, 2020. To read and learn more about the draft revised plan, please visit the project page by heading here: https://www.oregon.gov/ODF/AboutODF/Pages/FMP-revision.aspx

In addition to the meeting, there are several ways Oregonians can comment on the plan:

• This convenient online survey asks how the current Forest Management Plan is delivering desired outcomes as well as your take on the revised plan: https://arcg.is/1rz8uS
• Comments may be emailed to odf.sfcomments@oregon.gov or submitted through the ODF website
• Comments can also be mailed to ODF Public Affairs, 2600 State St., Salem OR 97310

This meeting is open to the public. Questions about accessibility or special accommodations can be directed to the Oregon Department of Forestry at least 48 hours prior to the meeting at 503-945-7200.

Date: Wednesday, December 18, 2019

Time: 4:30 pm - 5:00 pm

Location: Health Share of Oregon, 2121 SW Broadway, Suite 200

Agenda: Available online prior to each meeting

(Portland, OR) – Health Share of Oregon’s Board of Directors will host a Public Engagement Meeting, Wednesday, December 18 from 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm.

Reflection, highlights, and accomplishments from 2019 top the agenda. No substantive decision or vote is scheduled for this public meeting. There will be opportunity for public comment.

This meeting is open to the public and Oregon Health Plan members are encouraged to attend.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed for interpretation services and for persons with disabilities. Those needing accommodations should contact Janice Chambers at janice@healthshareoregon.org or (503) 416-1460 at least 48 hours before the meeting.

About Health Share of Oregon

Health Share of Oregon is the state’s largest Medicaid coordinated care organization (CCO), serving OHP members in Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington Counties. Our mission is to partner with communities to achieve ongoing transformation, health equity, and the best possible health for each individual.

Health Share was founded and continues to be governed by eleven health care organizations serving OHP members: Adventist Health, CareOregon, Central City Concern, Clackamas County, Kaiser Permanente, Legacy Health, Multnomah County, Oregon Health & Science University, Providence Health & Services, Tuality Health Alliance and Washington County.

# # #

Volunteers dressed as Star Wars Mandalorians will deliver holiday gifts and supplies to kids at The Dougy Center for Grieving Children this Sunday, Dec. 15

WHEN: Sunday, December 15, 1:30 p.m.

WHO & WHAT: Members of the Concordia Clan, The Mandalorians Riding Club, in partnership with Rogue Toys, Excalibur Comics and the Nerd Out Bar, have been collecting toys and supplies for The Dougy Center for Grieving Children this holiday season. They will deliver the collected items dressed as Star Wars Mandalorian Bounty Hunters and present them to children who attend grief support groups at The Dougy Center.

WHERE: The Dougy Center, 3909 S.E. 52nd Ave. in Portland

WHY: The Dougy Center provides support for children, teens, young adults and their families who are grieving the death of a parent or sibling. Each month, The Dougy Center serves more than 550 children and 425 adult family members through peer support groups in Portland, Hillsboro, and Canby. Because the death of a family member can often bring financial hardship, The Dougy Center does not charge families for its support services and relies on generous donations from groups and individuals. The items collected and being delivered on Sunday will be used by kids and teens at The Dougy Center throughout the year.

GRESHAM, Ore. – The Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC) District Board of Education will take additional time to review information on the possibility of phasing out seven of the college’s programs.

The board has been examining the data as part of an Academic Revitalization process in which seven programs were recommended to be phased out. The board will hold its regularly scheduled meeting on Dec. 18, but no action will be taken regarding Academic Revitalization or the seven programs at that time.

“This is not something we take lightly. Board members asked for additional information on the impacts of the cuts, and therefore would like time to review the new data to ensure we make an informed decision about these seven programs,” said MHCC Board Chair Diane McKeel.

Following the Dec. 18 meeting, the board will reconvene in January, but no date or agenda have been set for that meeting yet. The programs being considered for phase out are:

• Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair
• Broadcasting
• Business Technology
• Cosmetology
• Environmental Health and Safety
• Practical Nursing
• Wilderness Leadership and Experiential Education

These seven programs are being considered for phase out as part of MHCC’s Academic Revitalization process, which was a review of 61 programs and disciplines across the college that began last year following a directive from the board. The process of examining programs was initiated in order to help address budgetary concerns, as well as to comply with upcoming changes to college accreditation requirements that will soon be highly focused on student achievement.

Further information on MHCC District Board of Education meeting dates and agendas will be distributed when it is available.

Just in time for winter weather, a second round of equipment being distributed to communities throughout Oregon has arrived, thanks to the State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) Grant Program.

The SPIRE grant is a result of HB 2867, which became effective in August 2017, establishing a grant program to distribute emergency preparedness equipment to local governments, and other recipients, to be used to decrease risk of life and property resulting from an emergency. This equipment may include vehicles or other property.

One of the awardees, the City of Stayton, Ore. received a 56kW mobile-power generator that can be used for emergency power at the Emergency Operations Center in Stayton. The generator may also be redistributed other locations during emergencies, said to Stayton Public Works Supervisor Thomas Etzel.

“This is an important piece of equipment for our community. Trying to purchase this out of our own funds would take away from something else, so it was beneficial to get this with the grant,” Etzel said.

Awardees for this round include:

• City of McMinnville, Portable Power Generator 30kW
• Dora-Sitkum Rural Fire Protection District, Portable Power Generator 30kW
• City of Reedsport, Portable Power Generator 56kW
• City of Stayton/Stayton Police, Portable Power Generator 56kW
• City of Gaston, Portable Power Generator 56kW
• City of Winston Public Works, Portable Power Generator 56kW
• Rainbow Water District, Portable Power Generator 108kW
• Eddyville Charter School, Portable Power Generator 108kW
• City of Clatskanie, Portable Power Generator, 108kW
• Yachats Rural Fire Protection District, Power Generator, 108kW

In all, 80 grant jurisdictions around the state will receive SPIRE-funded equipment. Eligible equipment covers the four priorities of saving/sustaining lives, obtaining/maintaining situational awareness, incident stabilization, and initiating recovery.

SPIRE Grant Coordinator Jim Jungling said he believes the program makes sense for Oregon bringing practical equipment to communities that can save lives and property during emergencies. A total of $5 million has been allotted to procure emergency preparedness equipment to help Oregon communities prepare, respond and recover from emergencies.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

DSC_3031

City of Stayton Public Works team members, and State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) Grant Program Program Coordinator Jim Jungling, stand in front of a 56kW portable power generator, Dec. 11, at the Stayton Public Works facility. (Oregon Office of Emergency Management photo by Cory Grogan)

DSC_3025

City of Stayton Public Works Supervisor Thomas Etzel checks a new, 56kW portable power generator that the city received thanks to the State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) Grant Program, with Program Coordinator Jim Jungling at the Stayton Public Works facility, Dec. 11. (Oregon Office of Emergency Management photo by Cory Grogan)

PORTLAND, Ore., December 12, 2019—The Portland Business Journal has recognized OnPoint Community Credit Union, the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, as number six on the state’s top 10 “Most Admired Companies” in this year’s financial services category. The list was based on survey results issued to more than 5,000 CEOs across Oregon and this is the 12th year that OnPoint has received this honor. Companies were evaluated on innovation, branding and marketing, quality of management, community involvement and caliber of products and services. 

OnPoint is the only credit union recognized among the top 10 in this year’s financial services category, which includes banks and wealth management firms throughout Oregon.

“OnPoint has had another strong year both in terms of asset and membership growth. Equally important, we have deepened our investment in the communities we serve,” said OnPoint Community Credit Union President and CEO Rob Stuart. “It’s an honor to have our hard work recognized by our friends and neighbors across Oregon.” 

In 2019, OnPoint increased its total membership to more than 388,000 members in Oregon and Southwest Washington and grew its assets to $6.1 billion. As OnPoint has grown, it has strengthened its community impact by donating more than $900,000 to local nonprofits this year alone. In addition, OnPoint allocated 10,848 paid volunteer hours to its employees to support causes that matter most to the communities it serves.

The credit union has also expanded its partnerships with local financial education nonprofits and trained over 50 volunteers to teach financial education in schools and community centers. OnPoint supports school communities and nonprofits through its employee giving campaigns, refer-a-friend campaigns, and annual events like the KGW School Supply Drive and OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education.  

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving more than 388,000 members and with assets of $6.1 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union's membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 13 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Columbia, Crook, Deschutes, Jefferson, Lane, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Washington and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

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Vancouver, Wash. –The Police Activities League of SW Washington (PAL) is excited to be partnering with Walmart Neighborhood Market Store #3145 (off of Grand Blvd) AGAIN, but this time we are delivering much needed necessities for families at Discovery Middle School!

"We recognize that Winter Break can be tough for our families to have access to things like toothpaste, laundry detergent, etc. and so this year we are thrilled that Walmart Neighborhood Market stepped up to fill this need!," said Jenny Thompson, PAL Executive Director.

Thus this coming Monday, December 16th, Walmart Neighborhood Market Store #3145 will be presenting over $1500 worth of essentials to the families at Discovery Middle School!

PAL, VPD, & Walmart will be meeting first at the store (2201 Grand Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661) to load up the items at 9:30am and then we will head over to Discovery Middle School (800 E 40th St, Vancouver, WA 98663) to make the delivery

Members of the media are invited to join us at either Walmart or Discovery Middle School.

Feel free to email Jenny at jenny.thompson@cityofvancouver.us to learn more about the drop off times and locations.

Learn more about PAL by visiting https://palofswwa.org

Holiday Travel Tips

Wherever you're heading, if you're traveling during the holiday season, remember that everyone else in the world is also. Don't let terrible drivers, security scanners and long lines at the airport get you down. Here are some tips to help you survive the holiday travel.

Plan ahead.

Plan alternative trips if traffic makes your way home too overwhelming. Is there a scenic drive that might be longer but have less traffic? Pack snacks and drinks so you and your family will be fueled for the road trip. Break up a long drive by finding a few places to stop that will help keep the kids excited about the trip.  If you’re flying, definitely get some food before you board the plane.  Leave extra time before flights to get through security and plan your flights to allow extra time between connections.

Follow these flying tips.

When flying, make sure you check the airline’s restrictions ahead of time for carry-on luggage and fees for checked bags.  Avoid checking bags altogether if you can. You won’t have to wait for your luggage on the conveyor belt and you won’t have to worry about your things getting lost. If you do check luggage, make sure you have all your medications, important documents and maybe even a change of clothes in your carry-on in case your luggage does lost.

Pack earplugs. 

One of the best ways to mentally escape your stressful surroundings is to turn down the volume. The easiest way to do that is with earplugs. If there is a crying baby near you on the plane, put in the earplugs. If the music in the car is driving you crazy, put in the earplugs.

Ship gifts or give gift cards.

TSA suggests shipping wrapped gifts or waiting until you reach your destination to wrap them because they might have to unwrap a present to inspect it. Ship gifts ahead of time or buy the gift that can’t go wrong: gift cards to a favorite store.

Travel on off-peak days.

 Travel early or late in the day. 

Flight statistics show that planes traveling earlier in the day have a better on-time performance. And if your flight is canceled, you will have the option of taking a flight later in the day. Also, there will be fewer lines at security. Best time to hit the road? When everyone else is asleep -- early morning or late night. You can always take a nap when you arrive at your destination or on the ride there if you aren’t the driver.

REMEMBER TO BREATHE!

The overly friendly person on the plane, canceled flights, the luggage that fell off in the middle of the highway, can be stressful.  But remember to relax and BREATHE.  These will make great  stories to share when you finally make it to your destination. After all, holiday travel stress is just as much a tradition as pumpkin pie and re-gifting.

For more information and tips, visit our web site at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and Like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

December 12, 2019

District Attorney’s Office provides update regarding the homicide of Samuel Fast Buffalo Horse

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill is providing the community an update on the homicide investigation of 27-year-old Samuel Fast Buffalo Horse.

On December 9, 2019, a Multnomah County grand jury returned an indictment that charges 17-year-old Michael Annello Perkins with one count of murder in the second degree with a firearm, one count of unlawful use of a weapon with a firearm and one count of riot.

The indictment also charges 44-year-old Fernando Gonzales and 19-year-old Tremayne Coleman with one count of riot and one count of assault in the third degree.

On December 11, 2019, members of the Portland Police Bureau’s Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT) located Gonzales and Coleman at a residence in the 9900 block of Southeast Yukon Street in Portland, Oregon where they were taken into custody.

According to the indictment, Gonzales and Coleman unlawfully, while being aided by another person, caused physical injury to Mr. Fast Buffalo Horse; and that by participating with five or more other people, they, along with Perkins, engaged in tumultuous and violent conduct and thereby created a grave risk of causing public alarm; and that Perkins unlawfully possessed a firearm and intentionally used it to cause the death of Mr. Fast Buffalo Horse.

This investigation started on June 12, 2019 when Portland Police received information about a shooting at Broughton Beach.

When police arrived, they found an individual performing CPR on a person later identified as Mr. Fast Buffalo Horse. Despite the life-saving efforts, Mr. Fast Buffalo Horse died on scene.

Gonzales and Coleman are scheduled to make their first court appearance at approximately 9:30 a.m. on December 12, 2019 in Courtroom #3 of the Multnomah County Justice Center.

Perkins is currently in the custody of the Oregon Youth Authority. He will be arraigned at a later date.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office is asking that anyone with information on this case - who has not already talked with Portland Police about this incident – to contact PPB Homicide Detective Travis Law at (503) 823-0395 or travis.law@portlandoregon.gov or PPB Homicide Detective Vincent Cui at (503) 823-0049 or Vincent.cui@portlandoregon.gov. 

Like in all criminal and civil matters, electronic copies of court documents, which are not subject to a protective order, are available to the public through the Oregon eCourt Information (OECI) system.

No additional information can be released by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office at this time pursuant to the Oregon Rules of Professional Conduct.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime. Perkins, Gonzales, and Coleman are innocent unless and until proven guilty.

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Phone: 503.988.6567 | Email: Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

At 9:11 p.m., officers responded to a shooting in the parking lot of Quatama MAX station, 20675 Northwest Quatama Road. A man was found suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported by ambulance to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

Another man, a person of interest in the investigation, was detained at the scene. He is not charged with a crime at this time. There is no danger to the community.

The investigation by detectives is ongoing. No further information released at this time.

Lebanon, Ore. Last night during the Lebanon Fire District Board meeting, Fire Chief Joseph Rodondi was sworn in by Board President Robert Taylor. Chief Rodondi joins the Lebanon Fire District after an impressive career with the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department in California.

Chief Rodondi attended the College of San Mateo, where he earned an Associate of Science Degree in Fire Science, the University of Phoenix where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management and holds several professional certifications from the California State Fire Marshal’s Office. He is also a member of the International Fire Chief’s Association.

Chief Rodondi was hired by the Board of Directors following the announcement of plans to retire by former Fire Chief Gordon Sletmoe. As part of the swearing in ceremony, Chief Rodondi was pinned by his wife, Debra, and three children. Chief Sletmoe also presented Debra Rodondi with flowers from the District as a token of appreciation and welcome to the Lebanon Fire District Family.

Following the swearing in of Chief Rodondi, Chief Sletmoe was awarded the flag flown on his final day as Chief and a bell ringing service.

The Lebanon Fire District wishes Chief Sletmoe the best in his retirement and extends a very warm welcome to Chief Rodondi and his family.

Kelso- Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue Board of Commissioners will present multiple awards, promote 2 personnel and swear in 2 new employees during their business meeting at 5:30 pm tonight.

    Chief Dave LaFave will present Service Coins to 4 Kelso Police Officers for their heroic action on October 26, 2019 during a cardiac arrest at a local Cinema. Having arrived prior to Fire/EMS, the Officers immediately evaluated the scene and initiated CPR. The patient did have ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation) and was transported to a local hospital. The immediate actions of the Officers was a testament to their professionalism and instrumental in the care of the patient.

    Battalion Chief Jason Sanders and Lieutenant Erik Dearth are to be promoted to their respective ranks. During the presentation Fire Chief Lafave and the Board will make an official presentation and Chief Sander and Lt. Dearth’s family members will “pin” on their new badges and insignias of rank. Chief Sanders will be taking over duties in the Planning Section and LT. Dearth will be assigned to A-Shift.

   Also, Cowlitz 2 will swear in 2 new employees. Nicholas Hansen Firefighter/ EMT and Planning Specialist Jacob Trotter. Firefighter Hansen is previously from Pacific County Fire District No. 1 where he had been employed since 2007. Planning Specialist Trotter is a long-term member of Cowlitz 2 and former Cadet.

The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) in partnership with Oregon Business magazine, has announced that Roby’s Furniture & Appliance (“Roby’s”) of Tillamook, Oregon is the recipient of the 2019 Community Applause Award. The Community Applause Award, which is given to an Oregon business in acknowledgement of their significant service and contributions to their community, was presented to Roby’s during a banking industry luncheon held December 5 in Seattle.

Founded in 1996, the Community Applause Award is a competition in which banks doing business in Oregon nominate a business customer that gives back to their community in significant ways. An independent panel of judges carefully reviews each nomination and votes on the winner. Since the award’s inception, 42 Oregon businesses have been recognized, including this year’s honoree. 

Roby’s Furniture & Appliance is a retailer of home furnishings, appliances and mattresses. The family-owned business dates back to 1950 and is now in the hands of the third-generation brother–sister team of Ryan Lewis and Andrea Langeliers. Today, Roby’s has locations in Astoria, Lincoln City, Newport, Florence, McMinnville, with two in Tillamook.

Despite the company’s growth, a family atmosphere remains at Roby’s. This means closing on Sundays so employees can be with their families. The company’s “Roby’s Cares” philosophy includes both community involvement and an emphasis on a fair and supportive environment for their 75 employees.

Employees are a big driver of where Roby’s lends their support. They choose who and what to support during the company’s annual Serve Day. On Serve Day, Roby’s closes their stores and pays their employees their regular salary to help an organization in the community. In addition to manpower, Roby’s covers the costs of supplies, furniture and appliances, depending on the needs of each project. On top of the activities associated with Serve Day, Roby’s has helped countless organizations through direct donations or by donating items for fundraisers.

Roby’s was nominated for the Community Applause Award by Kyle Faulk, vice president and McMinnville branch manager at Citizens Bank. In his nomination, Faulk stated, “The Lewis family is driven by the desire to improve people’s lives and the communities in which they live and work. They do not seek recognition, but they should absolutely be applauded for their commitment to making a positive change.”

At the awards luncheon, OBA President and CEO Linda Navarro presented Langeliers and Lewis with the Community Applause Award, along with a $1,000 check payable to Juliette’s House, a McMinnville nonprofit whose mission is to compassionately assess and provide support to abused or neglected children. A video about Roby’s community involvement was also shown at the luncheon. This video can be viewed at oregonbankers.com/community-applause-award or https://youtu.be/Bk0WK9UwK24.

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About the Oregon Bankers Association
Established in 1905, the Oregon Bankers Association is Oregon's only full-service trade association representing FDIC-insured state and national banks and trust companies doing business in Oregon. More information is available at www.oregonbankers.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Billy Henry, Founder, President/CEO
Northwest Association for Blind Athletes
703 Broadway St, Ste 600
Vancouver, Washington 98660
Local Phone: 1-360-718-2826

Toll Free: 1-800-880-9837
http://www.nwaba.org
henry@nwaba.org">bhenry@nwaba.org

Northwest Association for Blind Athletes to Host Skiing and Snowboarding at Mount Hood on December 14 & 15, 2019

Vancouver, Washington—December 11, 2019—Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) has announced that they will be hosting two skiing and snowboarding events for individuals who are blind and visually impaired this weekend. These activities will offer the opportunity to learn basic fundamentals of skiing/snowboarding. NWABA’s programs are all designed to build confidence by stepping outside one’s comfort zone, to foster friendships with peers who understand what it is like to be visually impaired, and encourage independence through an active, healthy lifestyle.

NWABA’s skiing/snowboarding events will take place on Saturday, December 14, and Sunday, December 15, at Mount Hood Meadows from 10 am – 1 pm both days. This event is open to individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. Each event is full with 12 athletes attending each day. Athletes and volunteers interested in attending future events are encouraged to sign up at www.nwaba.org. 

"We are very excited to announce skiing and snowboarding for children, youth, and adults who are blind and visually impaired at Mount Hood. This event will support individuals with the tools and resources to participate in their favorite snow sports, and help them achieve their goals in all areas of life including at school and at home." said Founder, President/CEO, Billy Henry

Donations to support life-changing sports and physical activity for individuals who are blind or visually impaired are accepted by mailing a check to PO BOX 65265, Vancouver, WA, 98665 or making an online gift at www.nwaba.org. For more information on Northwest Association for Blind Athletes, please contact Billy Henry at 1-360-718-2826, or visit www.nwaba.org.

About NWABA:
The mission of Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. A group of students who were visually impaired formed the organization in 2007 to ensure that people who are blind were participating in sports and physical activity. Today, NWABA is a rapidly expanding 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides nearly 1,700 children, youth, and adults with visual impairments tailored programming which improves self-confidence and self-esteem, promotes independence, creates an inclusive community of supporters, and builds the skills necessary to succeed in all areas of life including school and employment.

For information: http://www.nwaba.org  or
Contact: henry@nwaba.org">bhenry@nwaba.org
Phone:  1-360-718-2826

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Do you enjoy a good mystery with plenty of controversy mixed in? Local author and historian Melissa Darby's new book Thunder Go North: The Hunt for Sir Francis Drake's Fair and Good Bay, embarks on a fresh investigation into a centuries-old "vexed question": where was Sir Francis Drake's 1579 landing place on North America's Pacific Coast?

Archaeologist and anthropologist Melissa Darby presents compelling evidence that Drake most likely came ashore on the central coast of Oregon. One reviewer, Todd Braje of San Diego State University stated, "Darby's work uncovers a potential scientific conspiracy by one of California's most renowned historians. She masterfully weaves a tale of political intrigue, fraud, and ego into an academic treatise that reads more like a historical mystery novel."

"Enjoy this opportunity to hear Ms. Darby's case for Drake's landing on the Oregon Coast in 1579," suggested Mary Rose, Executive Director of the Friends of Fort Vancouver. "This is a controversy that has raged for years between archaeologists and historians. Hear the information firsthand and decide for yourself!"

The Smithsonian's Andrew Lawler writes, "Few sea voyages are as famous as that of the Golden Hind, privateer Francis Drake's around-the-world voyage that ended with his arrival into England's Plymouth harbor in 1580. Along with being a remarkable feat of seamanship, the world's second circumnavigation, among other achievements, was the first to map large portions of North America's western coast. Filling the Hind's hold as it berthed in Plymouth were a half-ton of gold, more than two-dozen tons of silver, and thousands of coins and pieces of jewelry looted from Spanish ports and ships along the western shore of South and Central America. Drake's lucrative journey helped spark England's ambitions for global empire."

What: Author Melissa Darby presents Thunder Go North: The Hunt for Sir Francis Drake's Fair and Good Bay

Where: Fort Vancouver Visitor Center, 1501 E Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98661

When: Saturday, December 21, 2019, 1:30 pm

Cost: Free

December 11, 2019

OHA decreases recommended meal allowances for people who eat Columbia Slough resident fish

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Health Authority is changing its recommendation on the amount of resident fish from the Columbia Slough that people should eat. An OHA advisory for species in the slough was last updated in 2010.

Fish tissue data collected by the City of Portland shows the level of polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, and mercury found in resident species in the slough warrants updating meal recommendations, according to public health officials. The slough extends northeast from the Willamette River near Sauvie Island south and east to the mouth of Fairview Lake.

{EDITORS: see Columbia Slough map, attached}

The advisory changes the meal recommendations from two fillet meals per month to one fillet meal per month for all resident fish and crayfish, except for largescale sucker, which remains at two fillet meals per month. The change in meal recommendations should be followed by everyone.

{EDITORS: see fish meal recommendations table, attached}

Advisories are issued when fish or shellfish tissue data verify that the level of a contaminant — in this case, PCBs and mercury — are above Oregon’s established health-based screening values. Meal recommendations are then calculated using these data to help people better understand the amount of resident fish and shellfish they can safely eat in one month.

Resident fish such as carp, black crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, largescale sucker and sunfish live in the same area their entire life. Some, like bass, are long-lived top predators, eating other PCB-contaminated fish within the slough. The longer they live, the more PCBs they accumulate. Other fish, such as carp, are bottom-feeders. PCBs can accumulate in these types of fish because they live and eat in areas where PCB concentrations tend to be elevated.

This advisory does not apply to migratory fish like salmon, steelhead and shad that spend most of their lives in other places beyond the slough that are not land-locked. These and other migratory fish are a healthy choice when considering what fish to eat.

People who eat too much resident fish and shellfish contaminated with PCBs and mercury can suffer negative health effects over time. These health effects include damage to organs, the nervous system and the brain, leading to potential learning and behavior problems. Mothers can pass PCBs to their babies during pregnancy or in breastmilk, so fetuses, babies and small children are most vulnerable to the health effects of PCBs and mercury.

While it is important for people to know about contaminants in fish and shellfish, it is equally important to continue to eat at least two meals of a variety of fish per week to gain important health benefits. Fish are high in protein, low in fat, and rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s provide protection from heart disease and are an important brain food for adults, children and fetuses.

Part of the Department of Environmental Quality’s Columbia Slough clean-up plan includes periodic fish tissue sampling to monitor the recovery of the Slough. The City of Portland’s Bureau of Environmental Services implements the periodic sampling. As the monitoring data becomes available, OHA evaluates and updates the advisory meal allowances as warranted.

Long-term fish tissue and sediment monitoring data collected over the past 25 years by the city indicates most contaminant concentrations are decreasing and that PCB concentrations are slightly decreasing or stable. However, OHA is using an updated method for calculating meal recommendations and additional fish tissue data that improves the accuracy of the Columbia Slough advisory. OHA also recently updated a Lower Willamette River advisory and considered that information because the two water bodies are close to one another.

For a list of other areas and water bodies with existing fish advisories and recommended meal allowances, visit the OHA fish advisory webpage at HealthOregon.org/fishadv.

# # #

http://bit.ly/35dIy1l

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Billy Henry, Founder, President/CEO
Northwest Association for Blind Athletes
703 Broadway St, Ste 600
Vancouver, Washington 98660
Local Phone: 1-360-718-2826

Toll Free: 1-800-880-9837
http://www.nwaba.org
henry@nwaba.org">bhenry@nwaba.org

Northwest Association for Blind Athletes to Host Snowshoeing in Sisters, OR on December 14, 2019

Vancouver, Washington—December 11, 2019—Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) has announced that they will be hosting a 2-mile snowshoeing experience in Sisters, OR for individuals who are blind and visually impaired. This event will provide individuals with the opportunity to participate in a beginner snowshoe experience. NWABA’s programs are all designed to build confidence by stepping outside one’s comfort zone, to foster friendships with peers who understand what it is like to be visually impaired, and encourage independence through an active, healthy lifestyle.

NWABA’s snowshoeing experience will take place on Saturday, December 14, at Ray Benson Sno-Park in Sisters, OR from 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm. This event is open to individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. With a limited number of spaces remaining, NWABA is expecting eight athletes to attend. Athletes and volunteers interested in attending are encouraged to sign up on www.nwaba.org.

"We are very excited to announce our first snowshoeing event for children, youth, and adults who are blind and visually impaired. This event will support individuals with the tools and resources to participate in a unique snow sport and help them achieve their goals in all areas of life including at school and at home." said Founder, President/CEO, Billy Henry

As a nonprofit organization, NWABA relies on generous contributions to fuel life-changing opportunities for individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Donations to support NWABA are accepted by mailing a check to PO BOX 65265, Vancouver, WA, 98665 or making an online gift at www.nwaba.org. For more information on Northwest Association for Blind Athletes, please contact Billy Henry at 1-360-718-2826, or visit www.nwaba.org.

About NWABA:
The mission of Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. A group of students who were visually impaired formed the organization in 2007 to ensure that people who are blind were participating in sports and physical activity. Today, NWABA is a rapidly expanding 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides nearly 1,700 children, youth, and adults with visual impairments tailored programming which improves self-confidence and self-esteem, promotes independence, creates an inclusive community of supporters, and builds the skills necessary to succeed in all areas of life including school and employment.

For information: http://www.nwaba.org  or
Contact: henry@nwaba.org">bhenry@nwaba.org
Phone:  1-360-718-2826

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December 11, 2019

What: The monthly public meeting of the Conference of Local Health Officials (CLHO).

Agenda: Review and approve changes to billing standards for Program Element 43 (Immunization Services); review and approve committee appointments for all CLHO committees.

Agenda is subject to change and is posted with meeting materials on the CLHO website at http://www.oregonclho.org/ before the meeting.

When: Dec. 19, 9:30-11 a.m.

Where: Via webinar. Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8498210436933482253.

Background: The Conference of Local Health Officials provides recommendations to the Oregon Health Authority on the foundational capabilities and programs and any other public health program or activity under ORS 431.147. (ORS 431.340)

Program contact: Danna Drum, 503-957-8869, um@state.or.us">danna.k.drum@state.or.us

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Danna Drum at 503-957-8869, 711 TTY or um@state.or.us">danna.k.drum@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

http://bit.ly/2EbfnjQ

On Saturday, January 11, 2020, at 10 am, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Curator Meagan Huff will deliver a free presentation with guidance on preserving family treasures. Attendees will learn about the "agents of deterioration" that can harm heirlooms, find out what they can do to slow this process, and which supplies to use to help preserve their family's treasured documents and objects. This presentation is free. Seating is limited to 70 people. Please note that no identifications or appraisals will be done.

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site's Cultural Resources staff care for a museum collection of nearly 3 million archaeological and historic artifacts. As a whole, the National Park Service is the second largest museum system in the country, after the Smithsonian, caring for a grand total of 48 million items that tell the story of the American experience. Meagan Huff holds an M.A. in Museum Studies from the University of Washington, and has worked with the museum collection at Fort Vancouver NHS since 2010.

"I have met so many members of the community who are interested in properly caring for their family's heirlooms so that they can last for generations to come," said Huff. "I hope that this presentation will demystify some of the 'principles of preservation' and will help those who are interested in saving their family's collections."

What: "Preserving Your Family's Treasures," a presentation and discussion with Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Curator Meagan Huff

When: Saturday, January 11, 2020, at 10 am

Where: The Fort Vancouver Visitor Center, 1501 E Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98661

Cost: Free

The Lincoln City Police Department plans on using the first of their 2019-2020 DUII Enforcement Grant funds during the up-coming Christmas / New Year’s holiday season. This time period is part of the national “High Visibility Enforcement” event time period which runs from December 13, 2019 through January 2, 2020.  These national High Visibility Enforcement events are designed to increase the number of patrol officers on the streets nationwide with an emphasis on seeking out drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs and removing them from the roadways.

DUIIs continue to be a leading cause of motor vehicle crash deaths and injuries throughout the nation. According to NHTSA statists, alcohol-impaired driving fatalities account for nearly one third of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. In 2018 10,511 people died as a result of alcohol-impaired crashes. The Lincoln City Police Department is pleased to be joining forces with other law enforcement agencies to crack down on impaired drivers. Our goal is simple: to save lives. Drunk driving is simply not worth the risk; if you drive drunk, you will be arrested.

The members of the Lincoln City Police Department are committed to the safety of our citizens and visitors, and these grant funds are a valuable resource that assist us in improving the traffic safety in our community. These grant funds were made possible through Oregon Impact and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Submitted By:  Sergeant Jeffrey G. Winn

Vancouver, WA – Friends of the Carpenter, Outsiders Inn and the Council for the Homeless will host a Memorial for the Homeless on Fri. Dec. 20, 5:45 p.m., at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1309 Franklin St. At least 15 people with local connections who died while homeless this year will be remembered.

“This memorial serves as both a solemn occasion for honoring the lives of those who have passed away this year and a stark reminder of the sheer injustice of homelessness. On this evening, we have the unique opportunity to stand in communion with many others across the country and recommit ourselves to refuse to accept homelessness as a problem that can’t be solved,” said Tom Iberle, executive director. “This memorial is a time to gather together and recall the terrible price that is paid when we, as a community, fall short. It is our continued call to action.”

The program will include representatives from the faith community and remarks from various individuals.

Call Friends of the Carpenter at 360-750-4752 or email outsidersinnorg@gmail.com before the memorial if special accommodations are needed. American Sign Language services will be provided.

Memorials for the homeless are held in cities throughout the country on or near Dec. 21, the first day of winter and the longest night of the year. The collective goal is to commemorate the lives of the mothers or fathers, sons or daughters who died on the streets or in emergency shelters from illness or conditions directly related to their homelessness. In many cases, these services will be the only commemoration of their lives.

About Friends of the Carpenter

Friends of the Carpenter was incorporated in Vancouver, WA in Oct. 1998 and began as a vision of a practical outreach of simple welcome and personal interaction between volunteers from the church and people living in poverty. Since the beginning, regular contact has been made with vulnerable members of our community through woodworking events scheduled around the area and which, today, are mostly held at FOC’s Friendship Center. Our mission: Friends of the Carpenter is a non-profit, faith-based day facility that provides safety, structure and purpose for vulnerable members of our community. Learn more at friendsofthecarpenter.org.

About Outsiders Inn

OutsidersInn uses a multi-pronged approach to tackle the problem of homelessness, separation and discrimination through advocacy, awareness and support.  Learn more at outsidersinn.org 

About Council for the Homeless

Council for the Homeless is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide community leadership, compelling advocacy, and practical solutions to prevent and end homelessness in Clark County.  The Council collaborates with government partners, educators, business leaders, communities of faith, and community members to create an effective, efficient, and humane response to homelessness.  Check out www.councilforthehomeless.org for more information.

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NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Tuesday December 17th,2019 @ 6:30 PM

https://zoom.us/j/526309737 +17207072699,,526309737# US

Meeting ID: 526 309 737

This fall, Portland City Council appointed 27 Portlanders with diverse backgrounds and interests to a new work group on unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings. On December 17, the URM Building Work Group will hold its first meeting, kicking off a new City initiative to address the risks associated with URM buildings. The meetings are open to the public:

• WHAT: URM Building Work Group
• WHEN: Tuesday, December 17, 3 to 7 PM
• WHERE: Development Services Center, Rooms 2500 B and C, 1900 SW 4th Ave, Portland OR 97201

The group is expected to spend a year focused on recommendations to promote seismic retrofits for URMs. URMs are the most dangerous buildings in an earthquake. There are believed to be at least 1,600 URM buildings in Portland. 

In contrast to past efforts, the new work group will focus on programs to support voluntary seismic retrofits, rather than on standards for mandatory retrofits. The work group will consider the needs of non-profits, as well as how to support for-profit businesses. 

For more information on this effort, please call 503-823-4375, email ms@portlandoregon.gov">urms@portlandoregon.gov, or visit www.portlandoregon.gov/pbem/urms. 

Media inquiries please contact:

Dan Douthit, Public Information Officer

Portland Bureau of Emergency Management

dan.douthit@portlandoregon.gov; 503-793-1650

Alex Cousins, Communications Manager

Portland Bureau of Development Services

alex.cousins@portlandoregon.gov; 503-823-5929

The arrival of colder weather and holiday activities in December provides opportunities to keep your homes and family fire safe so everyone can have memorable times when decorating and entertaining. 

From 2014 through 2018, Oregon fire agencies reported there were 2,769 residential structure fires during the holiday period between November 22 and January 15. These fires were reported to have resulted in 24 deaths, 127 injuries, and more than $68 million in property and content loss. 

“The holiday season is a time when many Oregonians are enjoying families and friends in their homes and getting ready with decorating and other holiday traditions,” says State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. “Taking basic fire safe precautions will keep you and your loved ones safer from the dangers of fire and allow everyone to have a wonderful holiday experience.”

Tree Care and Decorating Tips:  

• Choose a fresh, healthy holiday tree with a deep-green color and flexible needles. 
• Water your tree daily — a tree may consume between a quart and a gallon of water per day.
• Make sure you have three feet between your holiday tree and any heating source. 
• Ensure the tree is not blocking an exit, and that the decorations you use are flame resistant and flame retardant.
• Use only non?combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree.  

Electrical Safety:

• Maintain your holiday lights. Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, and broken or cracked sockets.
• Do not overload electrical sockets. Do not link more than three light strands, unless the manufacturer’s directions indicate it is safe. 
• Protect electrical cords from damage. To avoid shock or fire hazards, cords should never be pinched by furniture, placed under rugs, located near heat sources, or attached by nails or staples.
• Make sure all extension cords and electrical decorations used outdoors are marked for outdoor use.

Candle Safety: 

• Consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look and smell like real candles.
• Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish candles when you go to bed, leave a room, or before leaving the house.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn. Keep candles at least one foot from combustibles including clothing, curtains, upholstered furniture, greenery, and decorations. 
• Always use a sturdy non-combustible (metal, glass, or ceramic) candleholder. If a sturdy non-combustible candleholder is not available, the candle can be placed on a non-combustible plate.
• Place candles out of reach of small children and pets.
• Avoid candles with items embedded in them such as twigs, flowers, or leaves. These items can ignite or even explode.
• Always use a flashlight — not a candle — for emergency lighting.

General Fire Safety:

• Have working smoke alarms on every level of your home (including the basement), in each bedroom, and in the hallway outside each bedroom.
• If using a woodstove or fireplace, keep it screened at all times. Keep ribbons, boughs, and other decorative materials at least three feet away.
• Never burn wrapping paper in the fireplace or wood stove. Wrapping paper burns at higher temperatures than wood and can cause a chimney fire.
• Keep combustibles at least three feet from heat sources.
• Make a home fire escape plan and practice it with your family and any overnight guests.
• Keep escape routes clear of clutter so you can escape quickly in case of fire.

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Sport fishing reward program helps save millions of migrating juvenile salmon

Portland, Ore. – Anglers earned nearly $1,162,000 in 2019 through participation in the Northern Pikeminnow Sport Reward Program. In all, they removed more than 146,000 northern pikeminnow from the Columbia and Snake rivers, which means fewer big fish preying on juvenile endangered salmon.

Each year millions of juvenile salmon and steelhead in the Columbia and Snake rivers make their way downstream toward the Pacific Ocean. These young fish face numerous predators along the way, including the ravenous northern pikeminnow.  The native fish is responsible for depleting the numbers of out-migrating juveniles.

For nearly 30 years the Bonneville Power Administration has funded the Northern Pikeminnow Sport Reward Program, paying fishing enthusiasts to remove pikeminnow from the river, reducing the number of predators that prey on juvenile endangered salmon. Registered anglers who removed pikeminnow more than 9 inches long earned $5 to $8 per fish. Specially tagged northern pikeminnow were each worth $500.

The 2019 northern pikeminnow sport reward season wrapped up Sept. 30, and based on some of the numbers below BPA continues to meet its annual goal to remove 10-20% of the predators:

• Fish removed                                   146,225
• Registered anglers                          2,700
• Average angler catch                     7.2 fish/day
• Total paid to anglers                      $1,161,421
• Top angler
  • Total earnings                  $53,107
  • Fish removed                   6,482

The program’s goal is not to eliminate northern pikeminnow, but rather to reduce the average size and number of larger, predatory fish.

“Large northern pikeminnow are responsible for eating the most salmon and steelhead smolts,” said Eric McOmie, BPA program manager. “Reducing the number of large pikeminnow can help more young salmon make their way to the ocean, which means more of them will return to their home streams as adults.”

The program’s effectiveness may even go beyond saving juvenile salmon and steelhead.

“Lamprey are often found in the diets of the northern pikeminnow,” said Mac Barr, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Predation Studies project leader. “In 2019, we began exploring ways to better estimate how many juvenile lamprey in the Columbia and Snake rivers are eaten by the northern pikeminnow. Understanding the predation rates on lamprey is important because they are a state sensitive species as well as a federal species of concern and are culturally important to many Columbia Basin tribes.”

The Sport Reward Program has removed more than 5 million northern pikeminnow from the Columbia and Snake rivers since 1990, reducing predation on young salmon and steelhead by up to 40%. BPA funds the Northern Pikeminnow Sport Reward Program as part of its mitigation for the construction and operation of the dams on the Columbia and Snake rivers. The program operates each year from May 1 to Sept. 30 and is managed by the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission.

The PSMFC works with the Oregon and Washington fish and wildlife departments to offer information and seminars at events throughout the year. Learn more about the program at http://www.pikeminnow.org.

About BPA

The Bonneville Power Administration, headquartered in Portland, Oregon, is a nonprofit federal power marketer that sells wholesale, carbon-free hydropower from 31 federal dams in the Columbia River Basin. It also markets the output of the region’s only nuclear plant. BPA delivers this power to more than 140 Northwest electric utilities, serving millions of consumers and businesses in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, western Montana and parts of California, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage power lines and 262 substations, and provides transmission service to more than 500 customers. In all, BPA provides nearly a third of the power generated in the Northwest. To mitigate the impacts of the federal dams, BPA implements a fish and wildlife program that includes working with its partners to make the federal dams safer for fish passage. It also pursues cost-effective energy savings and operational solutions that help maintain safe, affordable, reliable electric power for the Northwest. www.bpa.gov

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Thirty-seven law enforcement personnel from the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Corvallis Police Department and Oregon State Police participated in the 25th Annual “Shop with a Cop” event on Saturday, December 7, 2019.

Forty-two children were invited to participate through agencies including Benton County Parole and Probation and Self Sufficiency and Child Welfare offices of the Department of Human Services.

The Corvallis Fred Meyer hosted this year’s event and provided refreshments for employees, volunteers and family.

A $40.00 gift card was presented to each child to purchase gifts; although many public safety professionals dug into their own pockets to ensure the kids got what they wanted.

Some of the children are initially frightened of law enforcement. For some, the only contact they have had with law enforcement is when a parent or other family member is arrested.

Shop with a Cop gives the children an opportunity to see law enforcement officers in a different light. Not only do these children go home with a warm coat or a special toy, but also with the memory of a new friend in law enforcement.

While one might expect the kids to buy gifts for themselves, “that is often not the case,” Captain Rogers mentioned. “Many children want to buy gifts for family members.”

This program is supported entirely by donations; financial contributions are collected year-round. If you are interested in supporting, please make a check out to “The Sheriff’s Foundation – Shop with a Cop” and send it to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, 180 NW 5th St, Corvallis, OR  97330.

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SALEM, Ore. – The State Land Board yesterday approved the sale of 382 acres in Bend, and approved restrictions to overnight use and camping on the banks and islands of the Willamette River in Eugene and the Swan Island area of Portland.

Sale of the acres at Stevens Road and 27th Avenue is a significant opportunity for Oregon schools and the city of Bend, Department of State Lands (DSL) Director Vicki L. Walker told the Land Board. The property is school lands, managed to obtain the greatest benefit for public education. Sale proceeds will go to the Common School Fund, which sends twice-yearly distributions to Oregon’s K-12 public schools.

The 382 acres to be sold were brought into Bend’s urban growth boundary in 2016. Bend’s comprehensive plan calls for those acres to be developed into a complete community with a mix of housing and employment types. Bend Mayor Sally Russell said that plan, along with housing policy and funding tools, will ensure the land provides the full range of housing types needed by Bend’s rapidly growing community.   

“We ask the state to expeditiously solicit proposals for private purchase and development of this land, and to accept the proposal that best meets the state’s Common School Fund obligations and the many needs of the local community, none more important than housing,” Mayor Russell said.

DSL anticipates sale of the acres through a purchase agreement with an extended contract period to allow for completion of planning and annexation processes. This approach helps ensure progress on development of the property and allows the state to obtain the best value for schools.  

Marketing of the 382 acres will begin in January 2020. The remaining 261 acres of the Stevens Road property, which are outside the urban growth boundary, will remain in state ownership.  

The Land Board also adopted permanent rules to close the banks and islands of the Willamette River in Eugene, and the Swan Island area in Portland, to overnight use. The rules also prohibit camping and fires at all times. Temporary restrictions on overnight use, camping and fires have been in place since May 15 in Eugene and July 1 in Portland and remain in effect. The permanent restrictions go into effect Jan. 1, 2020.

Stakeholders and the public supported the use restrictions. Rules advisory committees met in summer 2019 to provide input on potential changes and develop draft rules. DSL also sought public comment during hearings and a public comment period in October 2019.

The Land Board yesterday also heard an update on exploration of the Elliott State Research Forest concept and significant progress made over the past year. Read the Elliott update news release.

For Immediate Release                                                Contact: Courtney Dodds

December 11, 2019                                                     503-274-4483

                                                                                    971-275-2334 (cell)

Union Gospel Mission to Serve 500 Christmas Day Meals

Portland, Ore., - Union Gospel Mission will be providing 500 meals on Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Union Gospel Mission. The meal is free and open to anyone in need.

The menu includes ham, Au Gratin potatoes, candied yams, green beans, hot dinner rolls with butter, fruit salad and pie. We will also serve hot coffee and apple cider. In addition to the meal, guests will receive a gift bag that will include a hat, gloves, and hand warmers. A snack sack will be available for each guest for a snack later on Christmas Day. More than 130 volunteers will be at the Mission Christmas Day setting up, preparing food, and serving the meal.

“We want our guests to feel cared for, respected and loved on this special day,” says Lori Quinney Food Service Director, “we could use donations of coffee and pre-baked packaged pies for the Christmas Dinner.”

Pies and coffee may be dropped off at 3 NW Third Avenue in Portland or call 503-274-4483. Financial donations may be made online at www.ugmportland.org or mailed to 3 NW Third Avenue, Portland OR, 97209.

About Union Gospel Mission: Union Gospel Mission’s purpose is “Feeding the hungry, restoring the addict and loving our neighbor.” Union Gospel Mission has been serving Portland since 1927. Union Gospel Mission provides meals and care for the homeless and operates LifeChange -- a transformative recovery program for men, women and children. Contact Union Gospel Mission at 503-274-4483, ugmportland.org or on social media @ugmpdx

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Thousands of Gray whales are migrating south through Oregon’s waters later this month and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) invites visitors to the coast for the annual Winter Whale Watch Week Dec. 27 - 31.

Trained volunteers from the Whale Watching Spoken Here program will be stationed 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. each day at more than 20 of best whale watching sites on the coast, ready to help visitors spot whales and answer questions about the animals.

A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available on the official event webpage. 

An estimated 25,000 Gray whales are expected to swim past Oregon’s shores over the next several weeks, part of their annual migration south to the warm calving lagoons near Baja, Mexico. The end of December is the peak time for their migration; roughly 30 whales pass by per hour.

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Park rangers will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.

A live stream of whale activity in Depoe Bay returns this winter too; watch it on the Oregon State Parks YouTube channel during the event.

For more information about coast state parks and campgrounds, visit oregonstateparks.org.

Editors: view and download an online gallery of whale and whale watching photos here. Credit Oregon State Parks. 

The Oregon Emergency Communications (E911) tax rate will increase from $.75 cents to $1, beginning January 1, 2020. This is the first increase to the E911 tax since 1995.

Phone companies and retailers are required to collect the tax and pay it to the Oregon Department of Revenue. The E911 tax provides about 24 percent of the total operating costs for 9-1-1 centers in Oregon.

Examples of products or services subject to the E911 tax include:

• Landline telephone service.
• Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service.
• Wireless telephone prepaid or postpaid service.
• Additional prepaid minutes, regardless if the purchase is made at a retailer’s physical location, online, or over the phone.

Examples of products or services not subject to the E911 tax include:

• Phone accessories such as batteries, chargers, phone covers, etc.
• Ringtones.
• Long-distance phone cards.

For more information on the state 9-1-1 program and how Oregon E911 tax revenue is used, see “Emergency Communications Tax” on the Oregon Office of Emergency Management website:

https://www.oregon.gov/oem/911/Pages/911-Tax-Distribution.aspx

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 11, 2019

(NEWBERG, OR) – The City of Newberg has received a $20,000 Technical Assistance grant award for the 2019-2020 biennia from the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development. Selected from among 48 proposals, the grant award enables the City to move forward with its Economic Opportunity Analysis (EOA) Project.

The purpose of an EOA is to help the City understand current and projected future needs for land and development as it relates to businesses and employment. In 2019, the Newberg City Council formally adopted “aNewBERG,” the Community Visioning Program, which is a representation of community values that the community of Newberg holds. In the program, economic development was highlighted as one of five topic areas the community wants to strategically address by 2040. In order to reach community goals of creating a thriving economy that leverages geographical amenities and creates family wage jobs, the City needs a better understanding of what land is available.

The EOA will not only help establish what type of land is available and what type of land the City will need in the future, it also helps identify what types of businesses would be attracted to Newberg. This will allow the City to more efficiently and effectively retain, expand, and recruit new companies into Newberg that both complement existing businesses and would be interested in the region.

The Newberg City Council passed a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a professional services agreement with ECONorthwest to complete the EOA on November 18, 2019. The City of Newberg Community Development Department expects the project to be completed by mid-December 2020.

With the nature of work and how businesses are structured changing, the EOA will also give the City the opportunity to understand zoning around the city and reexamine codes and standards to allow more entrepreneurship. According to Cheryl Caines, Senior Planner with the City of Newberg, the plan allows the City to ask: “Are there barriers for entrepreneurship and if so, how do we address them?”

The public will have an opportunity to learn more about the project, hear information the consultant has gathered, and how this information will impact the future of the City at Public Meetings held during the course of the project.

To learn more about the City of Newberg and current projects, please visit www.NewbergOregon.gov.

The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has awarded the City of Oregon City Finance Department with the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the City’s fiscal year ended 2018.

The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. Oregon City has been honored with this achievement for the last eight years.

Oregon City Finance Director, Wyatt Parno said, “The awards are a credit to the leadership of the City Commission and hard work from the staff.  The Finance Department is highly dedicated to supporting Oregon City’s amazing community.”

About GFOA
The GFOA is the professional association of state/provincial and local finance officers in the United States and Canada, and has served the public finance profession since 1906. GFOA members are dedicated to the sound management of government financial resources.

Vancouver, Wash. – C-TRAN is the latest local business to receive certification from the Clark County Green Business program. The certification recognizes C-TRAN for its efforts to operate efficiently and reduce its environmental impact.

The Green Business program offers resources and onsite assistance to help businesses reduce their environmental impacts and offer employees healthy workplaces. The program, coordinated by Clark County Public Health, recognizes and celebrates these achievements with Green Business certification.

C-TRAN earned the Green Business certification by demonstrating a commitment to recycling and waste-reduction programs, energy efficiency and pollution prevention in its operations.

“Sustainability is at the core of what we do as a public transportation provider, and we’re thrilled to join the Clark County Green Business program as a certified green business,” said C-TRAN Public Affairs Coordinator Eric Florip, who helps lead the C-TRAN Green Team. “We look forward to supporting this great program and collaborating with other members to further improve our own green practices.”

The public transit agency carries more than 6 million passenger trips each year, reducing the number of vehicles on roads and their associated emissions. More than half of C-TRAN’s fixed-route fleet vehicles are hybrid-electric buses, and C-TRAN will soon be adding all-electric buses to the fleet.

The agency’s green team meets regularly to plan initiatives, and its recycling programs go beyond paper, bottles and cans. C-TRAN participates in a special program to recycle cigarette butts from Vine stations.

C-TRAN installed water bottle filling stations for employees, and electric vehicle charging stations at the Fisher’s Landing Transit Center to serve community members with electric vehicles.

“I am proud to welcome C-TRAN into the Green Business program,” said Sarah Keirns, environmental outreach specialist at Clark County Public Health. “The green team is great to work with, and they deserve recognition for their efforts.”

To learn more about the Green Business program, visit www.clarkgreenbiz.com. Businesses interested in pursuing Green Business certification can contact Sarah Keirns, environmental outreach specialist, at 564.397.7319 or ah.keirns@clark.wa.gov">sarah.keirns@clark.wa.gov.

Vancouver, Wash. – Whether your New Year’s resolutions involve getting active, learning a new skill or connecting with your neighbors, the Vancouver Parks and Recreation winter activity guide is here to help. Registration is now open for community classes, youth camps, sports leagues and enrichment activities that run from January through April.

The activity guide is available to view online at www.cityofvancouver.us/catalog. Printed activity guides are free and may be picked up at Firstenburg Community Center (700 N.E. 136th Ave.), Marshall Community Center (1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd.), Vancouver City Hall (415 W. Sixth St.) and the Water Resources Education Center (4600 S.E. Columbia Way).

The winter activity guide boasts a wide range of recreation opportunities for children and adults including swim lessons, rock climbing, dance classes, taekwondo and pottery. Youth and adult sports leagues are open for baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, flag football and basketball. Adults may choose to register a full team or sign up as a “free agent” to join a newly formed team.

Parents and caregivers can start planning early for spring break by registering for day camps for ages 6 to 14 at both Firstenburg and Marshall community centers.

Seniors can use the winter activity guide to register for fun social activities, exciting hikes and group trips across the Pacific Northwest through Vancouver Parks and Recreation’s 50 and Better program. The Access to Recreation program features winter activities for adults with disabilities, including fitness and enrichment classes and weekly social events.

Recreation scholarships are available to qualifying families who live in Clark County. Scholarship funds may be used to register youth ages 18 and younger for classes, camps or leagues. They are also available to adults with disabilities who enroll in Access to Recreation classes. Learn more about scholarship guidelines at www.cityofvancouver.us/scholarship or by calling Firstenburg Community Center (360-487-7001) or Marshall Community Center (360-487-7100). 

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On Tuesday, December 10, 2019  at approximately 2:35 P.M. Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two vehicle crash on Hwy 62 near milepost 10.

Preliminary investigation reveals a PT Cruiser, operated by Jason Renfro (35) of Medford, was traveling westbound on Hwy 62 when for unknown reasons crossed the center line and struck a eastbound VW Beetle operated by Rickie Beer (70) of Eagle Point.

Beer sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.  His passenger, Susan Beer (67) of Eagle Point, was transported to the hospital with injuries.

Renfro and his passenger, Lawrence Hunsley (59) of Prospect, were transported to the hospital with injuries. 

OSP was assisted by Jackson County Fire District 3, Eagle Point Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff's Office and ODOT

Tuesday, December 10, 2019 -- Ridgefield, Washington – On December 10, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the December Employee and Students of the Month at the regular Board of Directors meeting.  

Employee of the Month

Susan is a valued member of the View Ridge Middle School staff, especially in athletics.  She does not hesitate to do whatever staff, parents, or administrators ask of her at the drop of a hat.  Parents frequently commend her willingness to go the extra mile or even stay the extra hour to meet their needs when handling eligibility processes.  Susan effectively communicates with coaches, parents, and staff to coordinate schedules, key information and staffing for games and practices.  She patiently supervises students in the school suspension room and detention, giving students needed support even when they are reluctant to receive it.

On numerous occasions, Susan is on the front lines handling parent concerns regarding discipline and athletics, sometimes when they are in a frustrated state.  She maintains a calm and professional demeanor throughout, and if she does not solve a problem, finds someone who can.  She bounces from these interactions with a cheerful, level attitude.  Susan is a dedicated and loyal employee, having served the district for many years.  She regularly makes the personal choice to rise above her own circumstances to demonstrate the ownership necessary to meet the needs of our students and families.  The View Ridge Middle School staff is proud to recognize Susan Arndt as Employee of the Month for December.

Students of the Month

Phoenix Ramsey was selected as December’s Student of the Month for the Early Learning Center.  Phoenix uses the life skills of perseverance and flexibility in his new pre-kindergarten class.    He is always kind to his friends.  He is respectful of his teachers and looks for ways to be a helper.  Phoenix’s quiet nature lends itself to making others feel included and safe.  The Early Learning Center is so thankful for Phoenix and proud of his work this year!

Chase Divine, a fourth grader, is December’s Student of the Month at South Ridge Elementary School.  Chase is a wonderful young man.  What we most appreciate about him is his willingness to try something new, even if it is daunting or uncomfortable.  He will give it his best shot every time.  Chase sets an inspiring example in the classroom.  The South Ridge Elementary School staff is proud of this young man and looks forward to the wonderful things we know he will accomplish.

Kherington Hagen, a third grader, was selected at Union Ridge Elementary.  Kherington is a student who embodies the Ridgefield School District’s philosophy of “unlimited possibilities.”  In the first few weeks of the school year, Kherington transformed her approach to learning from lackadaisical to responsible and dedicated.  She did this by confronting her weaknesses and struggles and by accepting constructive feedback, examining her own actions and seizing the opportunity to strengthen her learning skills by actively changing her mindset and habits.  Kherington’s creative mind, positive demeanor and unshakeable perseverance is an uplifting and inspiring example that strengthens those around her.

Jamison Barnette, a fifth grader, was selected at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School.  Jamison has a great sense of humor.  He is an athlete and aspires toward a career in acting.  He participates in lessons, works very hard in class and is helpful and empathetic.  Jamison is very inquisitive, always engaged, open to new ideas and excited to learn new things.  The staff at Sunset Ridge Intermediate is proud to select Jamison Barnette as their December Student of the Month.

Tyler Crouch, an eighth grader, was chosen at View Ridge Middle School.  Tyler is a wonderful young man who values learning and give his best effort every single minute of every single day.  Other students will stop to chat, take a break, etc., but not Tyler!  He asks questions and doesn’t stop until he understands the materials.  Tyler is a STEM-minded individual.  He works diligently to solve problems, cooperates collaboratively with is peers and is always thinking of what he can do to make his projects the best they can be.  He is a joy to have in class and is a positive role model for everyone!

Every once in a while, you meet a person who more than impresses you in terms of presence, voice, advocacy for others and stance for social justice.  Sophomore Charlie Fisher is such a person, and it is with great pleasure that Ridgefield High School has selected her as its December Student of the Month.  Charlie is a founding member of the newest club at RHS, Unite Ridgefield.  She is also a member of the district’s Equity and Engagement Committee and has started a Sister Circle to empower girls at RHS.  She serves on the Clark County Youth Commission working to create policies that positively impact the youth in Clark County.  In addition, she is a member of STASHA, a youth substance abuse organization and the Crew Team club in Vancouver.  Teachers describe Charlie as an exceptional leader, a dedicated and determined student, an extremely hard worker committed to learning and growing, and an agent of change.  Charlie takes advanced classes in science, social studies, and world languages and maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA.  She hopes to attend college on an ROTC scholarship.  After military service, she aspires to a career in teaching.

Special thanks to the local office of James Schmeling at Allstate Insurance Company, the Ridgefield Public Schools Foundation and Ridgefield Boosters for sponsoring the district’s recognition program this school year.

###

The Oregon Department of State Lands and Oregon State University will continue to explore transforming the Elliott State Forest into a publicly owned state research forest

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of State Lands (DSL) and Oregon State University (OSU) today updated the State Land Board on exploration of the Elliott State Research Forest concept and significant progress made over the past year.

This progress includes the development of a draft research charter and development of guiding principles related to forest benefits of recreation, education, local economy, conservation and governance. The potential research forest concept has also been incorporated into ongoing habitat conservation planning.

The Elliott State Forest Advisory Committee delivered a unanimous joint statement to the Land Board and recommended that work continue to transform the Elliott into a publicly owned state research forest.

“Our individual perspectives on the Elliott State Forest and our priorities for its future may differ. However, we agree that OSU should be provided the opportunity to address outstanding issues, and determine if terms required to address those issues are consistent with the Land Board vision for the Elliott,” the committee’s joint statement read.

In addition to the work of the advisory committee this past year, DSL and OSU have engaged tribes, local governments, state agencies, stakeholders, and the public in initial conversations regarding a potential Elliott State Research Forest.

Last December, the State Land Board directed DSL to work collaboratively with OSU to develop a plan for transforming the Elliott into a research forest.

The Land Board vision for the forest includes keeping the forest publicly owned with public access; decoupling the forest from the Common School Fund and compensating the fund for the forest; continuing habitat conservation planning to protect species and allow for harvest; and providing for multiple forest benefits, including recreation, education and working forest research. A successful research forest proposal is expected to be consistent with the Board vision.

The Advisory Committee noted that continued work was needed to resolve complex outstanding questions, such as how the forest will be decoupled from the Common School Fund and what a governance structure for the forest should look like.  

“While outstanding questions remain, there is enthusiasm around continued pursuit of an Elliott State Research forest,” says DSL Director Vicki L. Walker. “Diverse interests have expressed commitment to seeking a future for the Elliott in a research forest.”

As exploration continues, Oregonians can stay up-to-date via the Elliott State Forest website or by joining the Elliott State Forest updates email list. Increased opportunities for the public to provide input, both as part of the continuing exploratory process and during the formal habitat conservation planning process, are anticipated.

December 10, 2019

Media contact: Delia Hernández, 503-422-7179, phd.communications@dhsoha.state.or.us

Rules Advisory Committee meets in Portland Dec. 17

What: A rules advisory committee will meet to consider proposed changes to Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 333-014-0590. The proposed changes are the result of the passage of Senate Bill (SB) 253 during the 2019 legislative session. SB 253 revised ORS 431.382 to include provisions for a local public health authority that has previously transferred its responsibilities to the Oregon Health Authority to request the responsibilities be transferred back to the local public health authority.

Agenda: Review of proposed draft rules. The agenda will include time for public comment. Agenda is subject to change and is posted with meeting materials at http://www.healthoregon.org/lhd.

When: 1-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17

Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 177, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland OR 97232.

A conference call option is available for rules advisory committee members and members of the public at 1-877-873-8017, access code 767068#. Members of the public are asked to mute their phone lines unless they are providing public comment during the designated agenda time.

Program contact: Danna Drum, 503-957-8869, um@dhsoha.state.or.us">danna.k.drum@dhsoha.state.or.us

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Danna Drum at 503-957-8869, 711 TTY or um@dhsoha.state.or.us">danna.k.drum@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

December 10, 2019

Media contact: Delia Hernández, 503-422-7179, phd.communications@dhsoha.state.or.us

Dental Pilot Project Advisory Committee meets Dec. 16

What: The quarterly meeting of the Dental Pilot Project Advisory Committee. The meeting will cover Dental Pilot Project #100, “Oregon Tribes Dental Health Aide Therapist Pilot Project.”

Agenda: Review of modification request; presentation by Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board; presentation by Rose McPharlin, DDS, on classification of adverse events in dentistry; review of site visit report

When: 9–11:30 a.m. Dec. 16. A public comment period will be held at the end of the meeting.

Where: Portland State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Room 900, Portland. Conference line: 1-888-636-3807, access code: 79-38-00

Background: Dental Pilot Projects are intended to evaluate the quality of care, access, cost, workforce and efficacy by teaching new skills to existing categories of dental personnel; developing new categories of dental personnel; accelerating the training of existing categories of dental personnel; or teaching new oral health care roles to previously untrained persons.

Program contact: Sarah Kowalski, 971-673-1563, ah.e.kowalski@dhsoha.state.or.us">sarah.e.kowalski@dhsoha.state.or.us.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Sarah Kowalski at 971-673-1563, 711 TTY or ah.e.kowalski@dhsoha.state.or.us">sarah.e.kowalski@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

On December 6, 2019 Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish & Wildlife Troopers received information from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife regarding a disturbing video shared via social media.  The video displayed what appeared to be a young adult male climbing onto, and eventually riding on the back of a live and exhausted mule deer buck while it was contained within a fenced enclosure.  Throughout the video, the mule deer buck can be heard grunting and/or bleating and after escaping the rider, the buck jumped into a linked fence, multiple times, attempting to escape the enclosure. 

After reviewing the video, OSP Fish & Wildlife Troopers conducted further investigation and identified two suspects from Riley, OR.  The primary suspect, identified as Jacob Belcher (18) from Riley, OR., was located on a rural ranch in Harney County where he was interviewed by Troopers.  The investigation and interviews revealed that the buck mule deer had entrapped itself within a fenced feeding enclosure, before being ridden by Belcher.  The buck was eventually freed and its status at this time is unknown.

Following interviews, Belcher was arrested and lodged at the Harney County Jail on charges of Wildlife Harassment and Animal Abuse II.  Another suspect, who was responsible for filming the incident, was identified and interviewed as well.  Charges of Aiding in a Wildlife Offense will be referred to the Harney County District Attorney’s Office.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators 

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.

 Preference Point Rewards:

5 Points-Bighorn Sheep

5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points-Moose

5 Points-Wolf

4 Points-Elk

4 Points-Deer

4 Points-Antelope

4 Points-Bear

4 Points-Cougar

Or the Oregon Hunters Association TIP reward fund also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat, Moose, Elk, Deer, Antelope, Bear, Cougar, Wolf, Upland Birds, Waterfowl, Furbearers, Game Fish and Shellfish.  Cash rewards can also be awarded for turning in people who destroy habitat, illegally obtain licenses/tags and for the unlawful lending/borrowing of big game tags.

CASH REWARDS:

$1,000 Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat and Moose 
$500 Elk, Deer and Antelope 
$300 Bear, Cougar and Wolf 
$300 Habitat Destruction

$200 Illegally Obtaining License/Tag(s)

$200 Unlawful Lend/Borrow Big Game Tags(s) 
$100 Upland Birds and Waterfowl 
$100 Furbearers 

$100 Game Fish and Shellfish 

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity: 

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP(677)

TIP E-Mail: TIP@state.or.us (Monitored M-F 8:00AM - 5:00PM)

December 10, 2019

Media contact: Allyson Hagen, 503-449-6457, allyson.hagen@dhsoha.state.or.us

Program Contact: Zachary Goldman, 503-881-8698, zachary.k.goldman@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target Implementation Committee meets December 12

What: A public meeting of the Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target Implementation Committee.

When: December 12, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 1B, 800 NE Oregon Street Portland. The public can join remotely through a conference line at 888-808-6929, access code 915042. This meeting can also be viewed via live-stream at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eraJMDgmaig.

Agenda: Welcome; follow-up from previous meeting; adoption of charter and operating procedures; defining total health care expenditures; defining the inclusion criteria for payers; stakeholder engagement process; meeting schedule and proposed topics; public comment; next steps.

For more information and meeting materials, please visit the committee’s website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/HP/Pages/Sustainable-Health-Care-Cost-Growth-Target.aspx

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Zachary Goldman at 503-881-8698, 711 TTY, y.k.goldman@dhsoha.state.or.us">zachary.k.goldman@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

NORTH PORTLAND, Ore. – Lamar Hurd, Portland Trail Blazers TV analyst and former Oregon State University point guard, took a break from dishing insight on hoops to dishing boxes of food for a good cause.

The Portland Community College Foundation and Fred Meyer joined Hurd for a full-court press on battling food insecurity at PCC. On Tuesday, Dec. 3, the college received a food truck delivery from the Oregon Food Bank as part of Fred Meyer's one-year $300,000 grant. The grant, which is part of the grocery chain's Zero Hunger/Zero Waste Initiative, is the largest single philanthropic investment to support anti-hunger initiatives at PCC. 

“I try to find a lot of good opportunities and situations where I can be helpful,” Hurd told the crowd at the Cascade Campus. “When I was told about this day and asked if I could come and be a part of it, I was excited. To see this all come to fruition is very cool.”

The grant was a perfect start to the PCC Foundation’s participation in Giving Tuesday, a global movement dedicated to philanthropy. Fred Meyer and the Zero Hunger/Zero Waste Foundation matched all gifts to the PCC Foundation 2-to-1 during the day. In total, the PCC Foundation raised nearly $62,000.

“Our goal is to end hunger in the communities that we call home,” said Jeffrey Temple, director of corporate affairs for Fred Meyer. “We know that college campuses are one of the most important places that this needs to take place. This effort dovetails perfectly with our zero hunger, zero waste social impact plan.”

Em Jones, Cascade's student government president, served as the campus' Panther Pantry coordinator last year. Running the pantry made an indelible impact on her. 

“I know firsthand what food insecurity feels like and the hunger pains,” said Jones. “Being able to relieve some of those pains for our students has been one of the most incredible job experiences I've ever had.”

The Fred Meyer money will be put toward improving access to food, expanding pantry infrastructure with refrigerators and freezers, and supporting the hiring of PCC students to expand the pantry’s hours of operation.

A national study released this summer from the Hope Project found 48 percent of community college students experience food insecurity. Similarly, a 2017 PCC study found that 63 percent of student respondents had experienced some level of food insecurity in the past six months.

“We all know students who are one sick kid, or one flat tire away from dropping out,” said PCC President Mark Mitsui. “And we know that it doesn't take that much to help students over that hump and over that barrier. This is an issue of survival. It's an issue of being able to succeed or not succeed here at PCC."

The grant is all part of PCC’s effort to bolster its food pantries called Panther Pantries. Through a direct partnership with Oregon Food Bank, PCC has created pantries at all four campuses (Rock Creek, Sylvania, Southeast and Cascade). In 2018-19, students visited the pantries more than 16,000 time, accessing more than 120,000 pounds of food from the Oregon Food Bank.

“We all know how difficult it is to learn and to be leaders and to just enjoy life when you're hungry,” said Cascade Campus President Karin Edwards. “And so we're focusing our efforts on reducing hunger for all PCC students.”

About Portland Community College: Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to nearly 70,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, eight education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

Visit PCC news on the web at http://news.pcc.edu/

Spanish / Español

December 10, 2019

Media contact: Delia Hernández, 503-422-7179, phd.communications@dhsoha.state.or.us

2020-2024 State Health Improvement Plan subcommittees meetings

What: Subcommittees of the 2020-2024 State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP) are tasked with identifying strategies and measures, and developing work plans for implementing the SHIP. Each of the five subcommittees is focused on one of the following priority areas:

• Access to equitable preventive health care.
• Adversity, trauma and toxic stress.
• Behavioral health.
• Economic drivers of health.
• Institutional bias.

Agenda: Develop and review strategies to support priority area goals.

Where: All meetings are held at the Portland State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. Meetings are also available remotely. For remote meeting attendance, visit the subcommittee page through the following links:

• Institutional bias.
• Adversity, trauma and toxic stress.
• Economic drivers of health (including issues related to housing, living wage, food security and transportation).
• Access to equitable preventive health care.
• Behavioral health (including mental health and substance use).

When:

• Institutional Bias Subcommittee: Dec. 18, 10 a.m. to noon, Room 915.
• Behavioral Health Subcommittee: Dec. 18, 2-4 p.m., Room 900.
• Economic Drivers of Health Subcommittee: Dec. 20, 1-3 p.m., Room 900.
• Access to Equitable Preventive Health Care Subcommittee: Dec. 16, 1-3 p.m., Room 900.
• Adversity, Trauma and Toxic Stress Subcommittee: Jan. 7, 2-4 p.m., Room 900.

All meetings are open to the public. A five-minute public comment period will be held near the end of each meeting; comments are limited to one minute.

Background: Oregon’s SHIP identifies interventions and strategies to address health-related priorities in the state. The SHIP serves as a basis for taking collective action with cross-sector partners to improve heath of people in Oregon. The SHIP is based off findings of the State Health Assessment.

Program contact: Elizabeth Gharst, 971-666-2476, eth.a.gharst@dhsoha.state.or.us">elizabeth.a.gharst@dhsoha.state.or.us

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Catherine Moyer at 971-673-1132, ine.moyer@dhsoha.state.or.us">catherine.moyer@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Please reference CCSO Case # 19-014057

A 63-year-old Clackamas County resident has been charged with sexually abusing three young girls -- and the Sheriff's Office is seeking possible additional victims.

Michael Wayne Champagne was indicted by a Clackamas County Grand Jury on charges of Rape in the First Degree, Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the First Degree, Sodomy in the First Degree (2 counts), and Sexual Abuse in the First Degree (3 counts). He currently resides in the Clackamas County Jail. His complete booking info is here: https://web3.clackamas.us/roster/#inmates

Authorities believe there could be additional victims. Anyone with information on children who were around or associated with Mr. Champagne is urged to contact the the Sheriff’s Office Tip Line -- by phone at 503-723-4949 or by using the online email form at https://www.clackamas.us/sheriff/tip . Please reference CCSO Case # 19-014057.

A booking photo of Michael Champagne is attached.

[END]

PORTLAND, Ore.—David Carl Paulsen, 33, of Bend, Oregon, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day in federal prison and two years’ supervised release for illegally manufacturing and possessing marijuana during a March 2018 butane honey oil (BHO) explosion in Bend.

According to court documents, on March 18, 2018, Bend police officers responded to an explosion at a residence where David Paulsen lived with his wife, Jennifer Paulsen, 34, and their three-year-old daughter. Witnesses reported that, following the explosion, the Paulsens were running around their house, putting items in their truck and car, and telling neighbors not to call the police. Witnesses also reported that David Paulsen gave his daughter to a neighbor and told the neighbor to tell police that she had been with the neighbor during the explosion. Both Paulsens suffered severe burns.

During a search of the residence, investigators discovered more than 34 pounds of marijuana, multiple butane cans, and a BHO extraction device. BHO is a concentrated form of marijuana extracted using highly flammable or combustible solvents. Investigators believe David Paulsen was operating an illegal and unlicensed open flame BHO lab in his house, which caused the explosion.

On July 18, 2018, the Paulsens were charged by a federal grand jury with manufacturing or possessing with intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense marijuana and endangering a human life while illegally manufacturing a controlled substance.

On September 18, 2019, David Paulsen pleaded guilty to one count of manufacturing or possessing with the intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense marijuana. Prior to David Paulsen’s sentencing in federal court, Jennifer Paulsen pleaded guilty and was sentenced for unlawful delivery of marijuana in Deschutes County Circuit Court. The government moved to dismiss Jennifer Paulsen’s federal charges during her husband’s sentencing.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bend Police Department. It was prosecuted by Gavin W. Bruce, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

# # #

On December 3, 2019, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies booked Michael William Hern, 42, on 26 sex crimes covering a span of more than two decades. Mr. Hern is from the Washington County area, but was last living in Cave Junction, OR. Detectives learned Mr. Hern abused at least seven girls, but due to the statute of limitations can only be charged with abusing six girls at this time.

Detectives first learned of the abuse after receiving a report on July 1, 2019. During that initial investigation, detectives learned of two previous investigations into Mr. Hern from 2005 that were then re-opened.

During the course of the investigation, detectives have uncovered cases of abuse from as long ago as 1994 and as recent as 2017. The ages of the victims in the case range between four and 15. Due to the length of time the abuse occurred and the number of victims involved, detectives believe there may be more victims. In addition to Washington County, Mr. Hern has been known to have lived in Yamhill and Josephine counties. If you have any information about Mr. Hern, Washington County Sheriff’s Office Detectives would like to hear from you at 503-846-2500.

Mr. Hern’s current charges include:

Rape in the first degree (two counts)

Sexual abuse in the first degree (14 counts)

Sodomy in the first degree (three counts)

Sexual penetration in the first degree (seven counts)

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Oregon State Police, the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office, and CARES Northwest for their help in this investigation.

December 10, 2019

James Keith, 57, receives a jail and probation sentence after a jury convicts him of strangling his 85 year old mother

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced that 57-year-old James Keith received a six month jail and 24 month probation sentence for assaulting and choking his 85 year old mother at her residence less than a month after being ordered by a judge not to have any contact with her.

“Just weeks prior to this assault, because of his escalating and alarming behavior, the court ordered Mr. Keith not to have any contact with his mother, but he completely disregarded that order and viciously attacked his mother,” said Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Kate Molina, who prosecuted this case. “He purposefully took advantage of someone who is particularly vulnerable. The state has significant concerns for the safety of the community and Mr. Keith’s mother.”

A jury convicted Keith on October 30, 2019 of one count of assault in the fourth degree constituting domestic violence and one count of felony strangulation constituting domestic violence.

This investigation started on August 31, 2019 when the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of an assault. At trial, the state proved that Keith, without provocation, approached his mother in her kitchen and placed both hands around her throat.

The victim told law enforcement that she was unable to breathe for about 20 seconds and that the attack caused severe pain and that she feared that Keith was going to kill her.

In this case, a neighbor called 9-1-1 on behalf of the victim. While being contacted by a deputy, Keith opened a beer can and started drinking it, according to trial testimony. Law enforcement learned that Keith threatened to burn down the neighbor’s house if the incident was reported.

At trial, law enforcement testified that the victim is extremely frail and is a vulnerable person.

On June 27, 2019, Keith was formally served with an Elderly Persons and Persons with Disability Abuse Prevention Act, which was intended to prevent him from contacting his mother and from coming within 150 feet of her residence in Fairview, Oregon.

On July 4, 2019, Keith knowingly went to his mother’s residence in violation of the protection order.

The court found him in contempt on October 16, 2019 of violating the restraining order.

The court sentenced Keith to six months in jail for violating the no contact order. He will have to serve the entire jail sentence day-for-day unless his probation officer deems him eligible for early release for housing or treatment.

On the felony strangulation case, the court put Keith on 24 months of formal probation.

As part of his probation, Keith will be supervised by the Multnomah County Department of Community Justice’s Domestic Violence Unit and will not be allowed to have contact with his mother and cannot go within 150 feet of any location that she frequents, such as a doctor’s office. Furthermore, Keith will have to complete any drug and alcohol treatment, program, classes and counseling that is ordered and must remain offense-free while on probation.

If he violates any part of his probation, he could be sentenced to an additional 10 months in prison.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Domestic Violence Unit is committed to ending family abuse. The unit engages in evidence-based prosecution of domestic violence. It emphasizes the importance of victim advocacy services for all victims and their children. Even when a prosecutor decides to proceed with a case without a victim’s participation, every effort is made to offer the victim advocacy services from available resources.

The Elderly Persons and Persons with Disability Abuse Prevention Act was passed in 1995 to protect elderly and persons with disabilities. Under the act, an “elderly person” is “a person 65 years of age or older who is not subject to ORS 441.640 to ORS 441.665.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office recognizes Multnomah County Sheriff Deputy Mark Farmer for his dedicated efforts investigating this case and Multnomah County Victim Advocate Emma Kane for the advocacy and support she provided the victim and her family throughout this case.

Resources:

• Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office: Victim Assistance Program: 503-988-3222
• Call to Safety: 1-888-235-5333
• The Gateway Center for Domestic Violence Services: 503-988-6400

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Phone: 503.988.6567 | Email: rent.Weisberg@mcda.us">Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

See Attached Bulletin

Please be advised that the Bulletin does not include all calls for service to which officers respond.  Many calls do not require that a report be written; such as:

•Traffic Stops

•Advising/Referring a Person to the Proper Agency to handle their request

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

Mildred Grace Sweaney, the youth that was reported missing on December 7th has been located and is safe.  Junction City Police Department investigators located a number of leads pointing to an acquaintance in the state of Idaho.  The FBI and Boise Police detectives located Mildred when they responded to the residence of the acquaintance.  There is no evidence that Mildred was taken or being held against her will.  However, this is an active an ongoing investigation and further details will be released when possible.  Anyone having any information (new or old) on or about Mildred is still requested to immediately contact the Junction City Police Department, at 541-998-1245, for the purpose of completing this investigation.  The Junction City Police Department wants to thank the community for their concern and efforts in helping locate Mildred.

The Centennial School District Governing Board will hold a meeting Wednesday, December 11, 2019 at the district office board room at 7:00 p.m. Items of interest include an update on the facilities planning process. 

The agenda and accompanying documents are available for viewing by pasting the following address into your browser: https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicMeetingMaterials.aspx?ak=1001533&mk=50332809

Contact Pamela Jordan, Board Secretary, at 503-762-3601 or pamela_jordan@csd28j.org for more information.

In 2020, the McLoughlin House in Oregon City, a unit of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, will close to the public for a major rehabilitation. The house is scheduled to reopen in spring, 2021. This historic home, one of Oregon's oldest, will receive much-needed rehabilitation, including foundation stabilization, new gutters, mechanical system upgrades, a stair rail, and an ADA ramp. It will also receive new, historically-accurate wallpaper, curtains, and carpets.

The McLoughlin House was the retirement home of Dr. John McLoughlin, the Chief Factor of the Hudson's Bay Company's Fort Vancouver from 1825 to 1845. The McLoughlin family moved into the house in 1846. In 1909, the McLoughlin Memorial Association relocated the house from its original location by the Willamette Falls to a city park on a bluff overlooking the falls. This move saved the house from certain destruction, but, over time, has resulted in the need for structural upgrades. This is the house's first major construction project in more than 50 years.

"Dr. John McLoughlin is known as the 'Father of Oregon' due to the assistance he provided to Oregon Trail emigrants," explained Superintendent Tracy Fortmann. "His home is a wonderful place to learn about the history of the Northwest and the American experience. These repairs will go a long way to preserving the house well into the future."

The house will also receive aesthetic improvements. Cultural Resources Program Manager and Museum Curator Theresa Langford said, "We are so excited to be installing new carpets, draperies, and wallpaper in the house as part of this rehabilitation. Showing what a home looked like in the mid-19th century may surprise some visitors, as the colors and patters are very different from today, but it is key to understanding what the McLoughlins' lives were like and how they fit into Oregon City society. We are grateful to have had the guidance of Mary Grassick, a historic furnishings specialist from the National Park Service's Harper's Ferry Center, every step of the way."

The National Park Service's partner at the McLoughlin House Unit is the McLoughlin Memorial Association (MMA), the community group responsible for saving the McLoughlin House in the early 20th century. During the house's closure, the MMA will continue to operate their bookstore in the historic Barclay House, located next door to the McLoughlin House. This bookstore offers a variety of books and gifts related to the history of the area. Proceeds benefit the MMA and educational programs at the site. The Barclay House will re-open in February 2020, after the house's seasonal winter closure, which began on December 8, 2019. The surrounding City of Oregon City park will also remain open to the public.

"We are so pleased to work with the National Park Service at this historic site, and we are happy that together we will continue to serve the public during this closure," said MMA President Joan Williams. "At the Barclay House, the MMA and national park rangers will welcome visitors, host public programs, and interpret the history of this place."

History of the site and construction progress will be documented in a blog on the national park's website, located here.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is accepting nominations for the 2020 Green Awards, an annual program recognizing excellence in environmental sustainability.

Clark County Public Health is seeking nominations of organizations and individuals who consider the environment in decision-making and practices. Self-nominations are accepted.

Nominations are being accepted in the following categories:

• Green Business Award for a business with 25 or fewer employees
• Green Business Award for a business with more than 25 employees
• Green Business Award for a nonprofit or government organization
• Green Neighbor Award for an individual resident who goes above and beyond in modeling green living
• Green Apple Award for an individual involved in school (public or private) sustainability initiatives, projects and programs

Online nomination forms are available at www.clarkgreenneighbors.org/greenawards. Submission instructions are on the form. The nomination deadline is Friday, Jan. 10.

“The intent of the Green Awards is to shine a spotlight on leaders who are achieving positive environmental results and giving back to the community,” said Sarah Keirns, environmental outreach specialist at Clark County Public Health.

The 2019 Green Awards winners included Barre3 Felida, which reduced waste by offering towel service and encouraging clients to use water bottle refilling stations, and Columbia Springs, which features sustainable design elements throughout the historic site. Rebecca Morris received the Green Apple Award for leading the La Center High School Environmental Action Team to platinum status with Washington Green Schools.

More than 200 people attended the 2019 Green Awards and enjoyed Clark County-inspired improv comedy and video presentations about the winners.

The 2020 winners will be announced at the Green Awards Wednesday, March 18 at Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St.

Tuesday, December 10, 2019 – Ridgefield, Washington – Madeline Bruguier, a sixth grader from Sunset Ridge Intermediate School, is the first-place winner in the Superintendent’s Holiday Greeting Card Art Contest for the Ridgefield School District.  Her artwork was selected by judges as the entry that best exemplifies “Winter Wishes,” this year’s contest theme.

Madeline’s winning design will decorate the cover of the district’s holiday greeting card this year, which will be mailed out to school districts, public entities and private businesses on Ridgefield School District’s holiday mailing list.  As the first-place winner, Madeline receives a $50 cash award.

Three artwork entries were also selected for Runner-Up honors.  These entries were submitted by Elina Caine, a seventh grader from View Ridge Middle School; Kelsey Heath, a first grader from Union Ridge Elementary; and Mae Jones, a kindergartner from South Ridge Elementary.  Each runner-up receives a $25 cash award for their winning design.

All four students will be recognized at the district’s regular school board meeting on Tuesday, December 10th.

The Superintendent’s Holiday Greeting Card Art Contest, now in its sixth year, got its start in 2014 by the Ridgefield School District in partnership with the Ridgefield Art Association to promote student creativity and encourage student appreciation of the arts.

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Welcome to the Oregon FBI’s Tech Tuesday segment. Today: Building a digital defense as you race to finish your holiday shopping.

Today, we have a red alert straight from the big guy at the North Pole – we are just two weeks away from Christmas! Are you ready?

Online shopping makes it easier and easier for procrastinators to push those deadlines into the danger zone – but we have 12 days of tips to keep you shopping safely, and get you done early!

Day 1 – Don’t go online until you make sure that your computer and your phone are fully up to date. Santa says you should make sure you aren’t susceptible to viruses and malware.

Day 2 – Put the cold freeze on using public WiFi. If you do logon to unsecured wireless networks, you can put your private info out there for any grinch to steal.

Day 3 – Find the perfect whatnot, but the seller requires that you pay using a gift card or wire transfer? Watch out – those are telltale signs of a possible fraud.

Day 4 – Mrs. Claus is a big believer in giving “experiences” over “things”… but if you are thinking of buying tickets to a concert or sporting event for that special someone, make sure you stick with a reputable seller. You might find websites or online marketplaces where people are offering good tickets cheaply, but know that plenty of counterfeiters are ready to cash in on Christmas at your expense.

Day 5 – Hot toy or blingy bauble sold out everywhere you look? You think you hit the jackpot when you find it on a never-heard-of-before website, and, bonus, it’s cheaper than expected! Sounds great, but be warned – if you stumbled upon a scammer trying to take advantage of your desperation, the only thing that is likely to show up in the mail is a bill.

Day 6 – Pay with a credit card when possible. You will likely have more protections than paying with your debit card or cash.

Day 7 – Time to put your jingle jangle on and buy some gift cards. They are popular options, but watch out for sellers who say they can get you cards below-market value. Also be wary of buying any card in a store if it looks like the security PIN on the back has been uncovered and recovered. Your best bet is to buy digital gift cards directly from the merchant online.

Day 8 – Stay off you-know-who’s naughty list by changing your passwords. Yes, they can be difficult to remember, but, no, they shouldn’t all be the same. Make sure you use long and unique passwords for the most important sites – like your email and bank account – and update the others to stronger options frequently.

Day 9 – Tis the season for giving, and it is prime time for charities to ask for money as we get close to the end of the year. Make sure that your donations are going to legitimate non-profits by doing some basic research. Also keep an eye on how much of your donation goes directly to services – and how much it is gobbled up by admin and overhead costs.

Day 10 – It’s candy cane crunch time, with only a few days left. Don’t let stress drive you to making poor choices. Fraudsters love using social engineering techniques to trick you into making quick decisions you wouldn’t otherwise make. As the saying goes, if the deal sounds too good to be real, it likely is.

Day 11 – Almost there, and scammers are going down to the wire to make their pitch sound perfect. Beware of unsolicited emails, texts, or social media posts that promise you the chance to purchase that final needed gift. Don’t click on links or attachments no matter how much you want to be done with shopping madness.

Day 12 – You made it with just a few days to spare. We have just one final tip for you before you try to wrap that pile of presents. Spend a few minutes checking your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions. If there’s anything suspicious – make sure you report it right away.

As always, if you have been victimized by a cyber fraud, be sure to report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.IC3.gov or call your local FBI office.

Have a great holiday everyone and remember to shop safely.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Animal Shelter resumed operations in a new temporary facility at 510 NE Harney Street, Newport, Oregon.  The new facility consists of a modular building with space for animals, public and offices; additionally, new kennels have been delivered onsite to house our dog population.

All essential programs and services including adoptions, reunification of lost and found pets, licensing, protective custody care, food bank distribution, and emergency boarding will continue at the new facility.

Now that a new temporary location is in operation, we are concentrating our efforts on identifying a new location and facility.  Our goal is to find a location to design an Animal Shelter that will provide our citizens with services for decades to come.  A workgroup consisting of Commissioner Kaety Jacobson, Sheriff Curtis Landers, Animal Services Director Laura Braxling, FOLCAS (Friends of Lincoln County Animals) member Erica Fruh and County Counsel Wayne Belmont meet frequently to work on details of a new facility.  We are excited to plan a facility that will take us into the future. 

We want to thank all our employees and volunteers who have contributed time and effort to help the Animal Shelter.  The commitment and dedication from our Facilities crew, Information Technology (IT) and others helped us transition into the new temporary facility as quickly as possible.  We also want to thank the Newport Farmers Market for working with us and postponing their date for their indoor winter market at the Fairgrounds.  This truly was a joint effort that came together and developed a working solution.

The Animal Shelter hours are noon to 5:00 pm, Tuesday through Saturday, and by appointment.  More information may be found at www.lincolncountyanimalshelter.org and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LincolnCountyAnimalShelter. 

The Newberg-Dundee Police Department participated in enhanced traffic patrols during the month of November.  The enforcement was focused to address distracted driving (cell phone use), speeding, and driving under the influence of intoxicants.  The effort resulted in 20 contacts for operating while using a mobile communication device, 138 contacts for speeding, and 9 arrests for DUII. 

Beginning on December 10th, NDPD will continue specialized enforcement efforts in these high risk categories thanks to grant funding through the Oregon Department of Transportation and Oregon Impact.  The Newberg-Dundee Police Department is committed to the reduction of traffic offenses which most frequently result in injuries and property damage.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Charles E. Gilbert, died December 8, 2019. Gilbert was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary and passed away in a local hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Gilbert entered DOC custody on March 29, 1989, from Multnomah County with an earliest release date of August 21, 2039. Gilbert was 76 years old. Next of kin has been notified.                                                                             

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of 14,700 individuals who are incarcerated in 14 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

OSP is Oregon's only maximum-security prison, located in Salem, and houses over 2,000 individuals. OSP is surrounded by a 25-foot-high wall with 10 towers. The facility has multiple special housing units including death row, disciplinary segregation, behavioral health, intermediate care housing, and an infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care. OSP participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including the furniture factory, laundry, metal shop, and contact center. It provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, work-based education, inmate work crews, and pre-release services. OSP was established in 1866 and, until 1959, was Oregon's only prison.

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December 9, 2019

Media contact: Allyson Hagen, 503-449-6457, allyson.hagen@dhsoha.state.or.us

Program Contact: Pete Edlund, 503-931-8873, .m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

Health Plan Quality Metrics Committee to meet December 12

What: The regular public meeting of the Oregon Health Authority’s Health Plan Quality Metrics Committee (HPQMC).

When: December 12, 12:30-3:30 p.m.

Where: Clackamas Community College Wilsonville Training Center Room 210, 29353 SW Town Center, Loop E., Wilsonville. The public also may join remotely through a webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/5441985918617611266 and listen-only conference line at 877-336-1828, access code 9657836.

Agenda: Welcome and roll call/introductions; review agenda and approve minutes; public comment 12:40-12:50; debrief November presentation on Oregon’s Health System Transformation; development of New and Innovative Measure Criteria; Discussion: OHA Health Equity definition; adjourn.

For more information, please visit the committee's website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/ANALYTICS/Pages/Quality-Metrics-Committee.aspx.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Pete Edlund at 503-931-8873, 711 TTY, .m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Monday, December 9, 2019-Woodland, WA-Woodland High School’s Positive Academic Support System (PASS) connects struggling first-year high school students with dedicated staff members who help mentor and guide them to a successful freshman year.

Woodland High School introduced the PASS program in 2017 to help ninth graders who were at risk of failing one or more of their classes. “Research shows students who fail one or more classes in their first year of high school are significantly more likely to drop out before graduating,” explained Principal John Shoup. “Our PASS program helps students who need a little extra support getting used to the high school experience.”

Shoup and Assistant Principal Dan Uhlenkott developed a general concept for a program that could help students who appeared to struggle within the first few months at high school. Providing students with the support they need as early as possible may be key to their overall academic success. “Studies show that students who end their ninth year on-track by passing all of their courses are about 3.5 times more likely to graduate from high school than peers who fail one or more classes,” said Uhlenkott. “With the Core 24 requirements, students do not have much wiggle room to fail even a single class and still graduate, much less fail a core class.”

Shoup and Uhlenkott enlisted several staff members to become part of the PASS program. “Initially, we selected three staff members, Dana Preston, Cyndy Grayson, and Mary Ann Sturdivan, because of their love for students and, well, their parenting skills,” said Uhlenkott. “Many PASS students actually refer to their PASS mentors as ‘school moms’ who ensure the students have the push they need during each school day.”

“With four of my own children having graduated from Woodland High School, John thought I could be a ‘school mom,’” said Mary Ann Sturdivan, one of the founding PASS staff members. “I took that to mean keeping track of students, becoming a liaison with staff, motivating, and nagging whenever necessary; I’m already an ‘expert nag’ getting our seniors to meet their graduation requirements.”

Students in PASS may need additional support for a variety of reasons. “Often, poor performance in school is a symptom of other issues occurring in a student’s life,” said Uhlenkott. “Our PASS adults act as ‘school parents’ to help freshmen navigate academics, attendance, discipline, class changes, independent course curriculum; pretty much any aspect of high school.”

Students in PASS meet with the entire team as a group each week and then meet with their individual assigned PASS staff member throughout the week, as needed. “Some students need daily connections while others may only need a weekly check-in,” said Stacy Gould, the PASS program coordinator. “We do whatever our students need from us in order to empower them to be successful.”

Gould was hired as the program’s coordinator this year and additional staff members were added to manage an increasing number of students. “When teachers have multiple classes with dozens of students, it can be difficult to get a solid feel for what each individual student needs in order to be successful,” explained Gould. “The PASS team has the time to get in there, see students in their element, and intervene with whatever support is necessary.” 

In order to support the program financially, Principal Shoup and Gould applied for and received a grant from InvestEd which provided $5,000 for PASS each year for the past two years. The funds received from InvestEd help pay for snacks for the students as well as other supplies for the program.

PASS team members provide students with homework help, encouragement, and training in ways to be a self-advocate, sometimes even serving as a liaison between a student and a teacher. The PASS team also maintains a food pantry where students can grab a quick meal or snack throughout the school day. School counselors provide mental health services and the district’s Family Community Resource Center (FCRC) helps students access any resources their families may need. “We help students connect with the right people and services so they don’t fall through the cracks,” said Gould. “Essentially, we are the go-to resource to help guide them in the right direction.”

PASS staff members also regularly communicate with students’ families, letting them know where students may be struggling, where they may need additional support, and, perhaps just as crucially, when the students succeed. PASS can also provide students with a campus connection to help them become more familiar and feel more comfortable with high school life. “High school can be a tough and scary place if you feel alone and lost,” said Gould. “With this program in place, we’re able to connect with students to offer academic support as well as be an adult who takes the time to listen to them.”

In the time since PASS was introduced, the results have been spectacular.

Madison “Madi” Gosser became a PASS student during her ninth-grade year in 2018, and sees the program as being instrumental for helping her earn a 3.2 Grade Point Average (GPA). “Having the support system from the entire team turned me around,” she remembers. “During my freshman year, I was more interested in the social aspects of high school, but once I got into PASS, they helped me focus on academics.”

The PASS team taught Madi the importance of asking for help and reassured her that teachers truly care about the success of their students. “I felt like the teachers would judge me if I asked for help and think I was stupid for not understanding the lessons,” she said. “Now, I know the teachers are here to answer any questions we might have so I have no problem asking for help when I need it.”

In addition to taking classes at the high school, Madi also takes courses at Cascadia Tech. “I feel like more students need to be involved with the curriculum offered at Cascadia,” she said. “If more students knew about it, they’d learn they have a lot more opportunities for their future.”

Through PASS, Madi now has a plan for her future. “The PASS program has impacted me in a big way and showed me that I’d like to have a career in business,” she explained. “After graduating, I’d like to start at a two-year college, earn my associate degree, and then work my way up through higher education, too.”

Like Madi, Ileen Kafferlin, a junior who now has a 3.7 GPA, was nervous when she first learned she was being assigned to the PASS program, but that quickly changed. “Having the support from both the PASS Team and my teachers really helped me,” she recalled. “I need that kind of push; I also needed a good teacher to help me with that extra push, and, for me, it was one of my math teachers.”

Math used to be Ileen’s weakest subject, but thanks to the extra support provided by the PASS team and her teachers, she’s developed a new appreciation for it. “I really enjoy Applied Math which I’m taking now,” she said. “Being able to work with the APEX software package to develop my math skills outside of the classroom last year was huge.”

When Ileen graduates, she plans to go to college for a degree in education. “I want to be a preschool teacher,” she said. “I really like young kids and I want to have the same impact for them that the PASS team has had for me.”

The connections formed between students and their “school moms” run deeper than high school. “Even after I graduate, I have every intent to keep texting and keeping in contact with the PASS team,” said Madi. “They aren’t just the people who got me through high school – they’ve been my support group for everything.”

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Salem, OR — Drafts of eight administrative rules for Oregon’s new Corporate Activity Tax (CAT) are now available to the public on the CAT page of the Department of Revenue’s website at www.oregon.gov/dor, agency officials said today.

“The taxpaying community has expressed significant interest in the CAT administrative rulemaking process,” said Nia Ray, director of the Oregon Department of Revenue.  “By prioritizing the creation of rules that the agency believes are most urgently needed, and sharing them as early as possible, we hope to minimize the risk of confusion and non-compliance.”

The Oregon Legislature created the Corporate Activity Tax in House Bills 3427 and 2164 during the 2019 session and gave the Department of Revenue the responsibility of writing administrative rules to implement the new law.

The agency has identified nearly three dozen issues which may need to be addressed with administrative rules. Those issues have been prioritized into three groups.

The first group of rules—those most business taxpayers and tax preparers have said they need to understand first—will be officially filed with the Secretary of State on Jan. 1, 2020. The other two groups will follow on Feb.1, 2020 and March 1, 2020.

The eight drafts posted on the agency’s website this week address:

• Estimated payments.
• Estimated payments for unitary groups.
• Underpayment of or delinquent estimated payments.
• What establishes nexus between a business and Oregon.
• What constitutes a unitary group for the CAT.
• Property brought into Oregon.
• The definition of agent.
• Filing extensions.

Sharing draft rules ahead of officially filing them allows business taxpayers and tax professionals time to review the rules and use them as guidance on how to proceed starting Jan. 1. It also offers them an additional opportunity to have input into the rules.

The agency previously engaged more than 800 stakeholders in the rulemaking process through a series of public meetings, video conferences and conference calls. Department officials said they will welcome additional feedback on the draft rules.  Those with comments can send feedback via email to ules.dOR@oregon.gov">catrules.dor@oregon.gov. (Please include “comments on draft rules” in the subject line.)

When officially filed with the Secretary of State all of the rules for the CAT will initially be adopted as temporary rules. Temporary rules are only good for 180 days. Starting April 1, 2020 the department will begin the process of adopting permanent rules for the CAT. That process involves public comment, giving stakeholders another chance to provide input.

The CAT is imposed on businesses for the privilege of doing business in Oregon. It applies to all business entities including those located inside and outside of Oregon. It is measured on a business’s commercial activity—the total amount a business realizes from commercial activity in Oregon.

Businesses with taxable commercial activity in excess of $1 million must pay the Corporate Activity Tax. The tax is $250 plus 0.57% of gross receipts greater than $1 million after subtractions.

More information about the Corporate Activity Tax is available on the Department of Revenue’s website. It includes a list of frequently asked questions and a form to sign-up for email updates on the CAT. Stakeholders can direct questions or comments about the CAT via email to cat.help.dor@oregon.gov or call 503-945-8005.

Visit www.oregon.gov/dor to get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make tax payments; call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish); 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon; or email questions.dor@oregon.gov. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), call 800-886-7204.

The public is invited to honor nation’s heroes during annual holiday wreath-laying event.

WHAT:     The Department of Veterans Affairs partners with Wreaths Across America to hold the annual holiday wreath-laying ceremony honoring and remembering our nation’s Veterans.

WHEN:     Saturday, December 14, 12:00 PM

WHERE:   Willamette National Cemetery, 11800 SE Mt. Scott Blvd., Portland, OR 97086

BACKGROUND:

Morrill Worcester, owner of Worcester Wreath Company, was a 12-year-old paper boy when he won a trip to Washington D.C. The experience was one he would never forget, and Arlington National Cemetery made an especially indelible impression on him. In 1992, Worcester Wreath found themselves with a surplus of wreaths nearing the end of the holiday season. Recalling his boyhood trip, Worcester worked to place wreaths in the older sections of the cemetery that had been receiving fewer visitors with each passing year. The annual tribute went on quietly for several years, until 2005, when a photo of the stones at Arlington, adorned with wreaths and covered in snow, circulated around the internet.

Today, volunteers place holiday wreaths to honor and remember America’s veterans at more than 100 VA national cemeteries, in addition to Arlington National Cemetery and state veteran cemeteries, as part of the annual Wreaths Across America event.

“This annual tribute to our nation’s veterans is more than just a patriotic activity,” said Peter Sardo, Willamette National Cemetery director. “Wreaths Across America is an opportunity for VA to partner with key organizations as we honor those laid to rest in VA’s cemeteries.”

The Wreaths Across America ceremonies align with VA’s National Cemetery Administration’s mission to increase public awareness by sharing the stories of America’s Veterans through research, education, and community commemoration.

Located on the top of Mt. Scott, the 307.6 - acre Willamette National Cemetery opened February 14, 1951. Since that time, the cemetery has conducted more than 178,412 interments of Veterans and eligible dependents.

Burial in a VA national cemetery is open to all members of the armed forces and veterans who have met minimum active duty service requirements, as applicable by law and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Members of the reserve components of the armed forces who die while on active duty under certain circumstances or who die while on training duty are also eligible for burial, as are service members and former service members who were eligible for retired pay at the time of their death. Spouses, minor children and, under certain conditions, dependent unmarried adult children are also eligible for burial even if they predecease the veteran. For more information, call 503-273-5250 or visit www.cem.va.gov.

There has still been no sign of 17 year old Mildred Grace Sweaney who was reported missing from her Junction City, Oregon Home on Saturday, December 7th.  While information of her disappearance has begun to flood social media channels and news media outlets, relatively little new information has been developed other than Mildred may have some connections in the state of Idaho.

Information regarding Mildred, along with two new photos has been entered into the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Database.  NCMEC case workers have created, and widely distributed, a poster with Mildred’s information nationwide, including sending automated faxes to businesses in the Eugene, Springfield, and Junction areas.  This is an active investigation; anyone having any information (new or old) on or about Mildred is requested to immediately contact the Junction City Police Department at 541-998-1245.

MEDIA ADVISORY & PHOTO OP:
FRIDAY, DEC. 13, 2:00 p.m.

(EDITORS: RSVP by noon 12/13: news@portlandalliance.com)

Senator Merkley, Mayor Wheeler, and other community leaders kick off celebration of new office space for greater Portland’s Chamber of Commerce and its affiliate partners

Portland, Ore. – On Friday, Dec. 13 (2:00 p.m.), Senator Jeff Merkley, Mayor Ted Wheeler and leaders from Portland General Electric will help celebrate the grand opening of Portland Business Alliance’s new offices located on the 14th floor of One World Trade Center.

WHEN: 2:00 p.m., Friday, Dec.13. (Following brief welcome messages, a ribbon cutting will occur at 2:30 p.m.)
WHERE: Portland Business Alliance, 121 SW Salmon St., Suite 1440 (EDITORS: For ease of access, RSVP requested by noon 12/13.)
WHO: Senator Jeff Merkley, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler, and representatives from the Portland Business Alliance and Portland General Electric.
WHAT: Celebrating the grand opening of new offices of the Portland Business Alliance and its affiliate partners, Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, Partners in Diversity and Pacific Northwest International Trade Association.

This event will begin with welcome remarks from U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler, Portland Business Alliance board chair and president of TMT Development, Vanessa Sturgeon, Portland Business Alliance president and CEO, Andrew Hoan, and Portland General Electric president and CEO, Maria Pope. Following remarks, will be an official ribbon cutting to mark the grand opening of the new office at 2:30 p.m.

The newly renovated 8,850 square feet includes a conference center open to the business community. The Alliance and its affiliate partners are committed to supporting opportunities for emerging businesses, 47% of contractors and 70% of purchases on this project included MWVB/E.

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Portland Business Alliance
The Portland Business Alliance is greater Portland’s chamber of commerce and represents the largest most diverse business network in the region. The Alliance strives to promote and foster an environment that attracts, supports and retains jobs, spurs economic vitality and supports educational opportunities for all those who live here. More: PortlandAlliance.com. 

Seaside, Ore. – December 9, 2019 – On Friday December 6, 2019, at approximately 10:23 p.m., the Seaside Police Department responded to a party at the Coast River Inn, 555 Ave. G, where several minors and adults were cited for alcohol related charges. One male responsible for the party, Landon Warrilow, 33, of Gresham, was cited for furnishing alcohol to minors. Over twenty other people, ranging in age from 15-20, were cited for minor in possession of alcohol. Several other people in attendance who provided breath samples and found to have no alcohol in their blood departed the area without citations. Ian Conley, 20, of Cornelius, was also arrested for an outstanding warrant out of Washington County.  

On Saturday December 7, 2019 staff at the same hotel called Seaside Police to report another party was beginning at the same location and when officers arrived the people in attendance departed before police were able to detain them.  

On Sunday December 8, 2019 officers learned that the same group of people may be having a party at 708 24th Ave. By this time officers learned that the previously arrested Warrilow had provided false information during the issuance of a citation Friday evening and probable cause now existed for his arrest on the charge of providing false information to a police officer. Upon arrival at this latest party, location officers were allowed to enter the residence to arrest Warrilow on the new charge and the party was dispersed.  

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Cpl. Jeff Oja of the Seaside Police Department at (503) 738-6311.

end of release

(Salem) – Oregonians who do not get health insurance through their employers and who do not qualify for the Oregon Health Plan have only until Sunday, Dec. 15, at 11:59 p.m. (Pacific) to sign up for coverage and get help paying for the coverage. Get started now by estimating your subsidy and reviewing the plans and prices at OregonHealthCare.gov/windowshop. 

“It’s a busy time of year, but don’t wait until the final hours. There are many health plans to choose from and you’re going to want time to shop for the right one,” said Chiqui Flowers, administrator of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. The Marketplace is a part of state government that helps connect Oregonians to coverage. It partners with HealthCare.gov, the website where people apply for federal subsidies.

Throughout Oregon, between seven and 41 plans are available, depending on your county. People who qualify for subsidies can use that financial help on any plan. Last year, 74 percent of Oregonians who enrolled through the Marketplace got subsidies. The average bottom-line premium for them was $140 per month.

Oregonians will see increased advertising in this final week of enrollment. Video and audio ads on Hulu, Spotify, broadcast TV, and other outlets highlight consumer testimonials and lay out how and why to enroll. Samples are online at http://bit.ly/subsidy-testimonials and http://bit.ly/coverage-and-subsidies.  

To get help filling out the subsidy application and reviewing health plan options, use the directory at OregonHealthCare.gov/gethelp, or call the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace at 1-855-268-3767 (toll-free).

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The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, a part of state government, helps people get health insurance when they do not have job-based coverage, and do not qualify for the Oregon Health Plan or another program. The Marketplace is the state-level partner to HealthCare.gov, and a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS). For more information, go to OregonHealthCare.gov.

Vancouver, Wash. – Winter break is even more exciting with day camps from Vancouver Parks and Recreation. Winter camps are open to children ages 6-10 and run from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Camps are $36 per day for City residents and $41 for non-residents. Learn more at www.cityofvancouver.us/camps.

Vancouver Parks and Recreation offers a winter day camp at each of the city’s two community centers. Both camps provide structured activities from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., including games, crafts, swimming and field trips. Drop off starts at 7:30 a.m. with pick up by 5:30 p.m. There is no deadline for registration, but availability is on a first come, first served basis.

Adventures Youth Day Camp
Marshall Community Center, 1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd.
Dec. 26-30, 2019 and  Jan. 2-3, 2020
Register online or call 360-487-7100.

SPARK Youth Day Camp
Firstenburg Community Center, 700 N.E. 136th Ave.
Dec. 26-31, 2019 and Jan. 2-3, 2020
Register online or call 360-487-7001.

Recreation scholarships are available to qualifying families who live in Clark County. Scholarship funds may be used to register for winter day camps. Scholarship applications may take up to one week to process, so applicants should plan accordingly. Learn more about scholarship guidelines at www.cityofvancouver.us/scholarship or by calling Firstenburg Community Center (360-487-7001) or Marshall Community Center (360-487-7100). 

Children with special needs are welcome to participate in Vancouver Parks and Recreation camps. Parents or caregivers must notify staff at 360-487-7057 or vices@cityofvancouver.us">inclusion.services@cityofvancouver.us at least 15 days prior to their first day of camp to make arrangements for proper inclusion support services.

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About Vancouver Parks and Recreation

Vancouver Parks and Recreation builds upon the City’s strong legacy of parks, natural areas and recreation dating back to the dedication of Esther Short Park in 1853. Each month, the Parks and Recreation Department provides hundreds of recreation opportunities for youth, adults, seniors and persons with disabilities at its two community centers. Parks and Recreation operates 1,600 acres of parkland at 113 sites, including 91 parks, 20 miles of trails and many natural areas for the City of Vancouver. The Parks and Recreation Department cultivates community in the City and beyond through on-going special events and volunteer programs that celebrate the City’s natural spaces.

Last night, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office deputies pulled off a law-enforcement "hat trick," interrupting three different thefts from construction sites -- all within a five hour period. Two arrests were made, a dog surrendered to police, and authorities would like to reunite owners with their stolen property.

INCIDENT 1 (11:15 p.m.): A U-HAUL FULL OF STOLEN GOODS IN HAPPY VALLEY

CCSO Case # 19-029065

This law-enforcement hat trick started in Happy Valley.

At 11:15 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8, a Sheriff's Office deputy contracted to Happy Valley PD saw a U-Haul van pulling out of a residential construction site near SE 147th Ave and Scouter’s Mountain.

The deputy attempted to stop the van, but the suspect sped away, leading the deputy on a short vehicle pursuit. The pursuit ended when the suspect reached a dead-end at SE 145th Ct. and SE Nehalem St in Portland.

The driver ran from the vehicle on foot -- leaving a female passenger in the cab.

Deputies then deployed a Sheriff's Office K9 team to search for the suspect in the greenspace north of the neighborhood, but they were unable to locate him.

Inside the U-Haul, deputies found around $10,000 worth of stolen goods taken from a second construction site, near SE Sunnyside Rd. and SE 162nd Ave. in Happy Valley.

Deputies are currently working to identify the suspect. U-Haul has been cooperative with the investigation.  The female passenger was cooperative with deputies and was released from the scene.  

The contractor from the Sunnyside Rd. theft site met our deputy in our Property Room this morning, and was grateful to be reunited with his tools and the items he was installing in the house.

SUSPECT SOUGHT: Anyone with information on the suspect who fled is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office Tip Line — by phone at 503-723-4949 or by using the online email form at https://www.clackamas.us/sheriff/tip . Please reference CCSO Case # 19-029065.

LOOKING TO REUNITE STOLEN TOOLS WITH OWNER(s): Deputies are looking to reunite recovered stolen tools from the U-Haul (Case # 19-029065, 11:15 p.m.) with the owners of that property. Photos of the stolen property are attached. Residents looking to recover the property can contact Happy Valley PD at 503-655-8211 -- please reference CCSO Case # 19-029065.

INCIDENT 2 (2 a.m.): CRIMINAL CAUGHT IN THE ACT ABANDONS DOG

CCSO Case # 19-029070

At 2 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 9, another Happy Valley deputy traveled to the construction site at SE Sunnyside Rd. and 162nd to conduct further investigation -- and stopped a second theft in progress.

When the deputy arrived at the construction site, he saw a man dressed in dark clothing opening a utility trailer at the site.

This suspect also had a companion with him: a dog, believed to be a black Griffon/Terrier mix.

The suspect fled the scene when he saw the deputy. However, the dog declined to follow.

The deputy advised dispatch that he'd just interrupted a theft and summoned additional deputies. The deputy could hear the suspect behind the house calling for the dog to follow him. However, the dog decided it was best to surrender and remained with the deputy.

When other deputies arrived, they searched the area for the suspect but were unable to find him. The dog, however, was happy to be rescued by the deputies -- and he had a hard time controlling his excitement over all the love he was getting. (Photos of the dog are attached.)

SUSPECT SOUGHT: Anyone with information on the suspect who fled is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office Tip Line — by phone at 503-723-4949 or by using the online email form at https://www.clackamas.us/sheriff/tip . Please reference CCSO Case # 19-029070.

The suspect's dog is currently in the care of Clackamas County Dog Services.

INCIDENT 3: STOLEN-TRAILER TROUBLE IN THE HOME DEPOT LOT

CCSO Case # 19-029072

The final construction-site arrest of the night happened at 4:30 a.m. on Dec. 9.

A deputy was in the parking lot of the Home Depot on SE 82nd Ave. and Johnson Creek Blvd. when he observed a Ford F-150 driving slowly through the parking lot. The driver parked the Ford, turned its lights off, and sat for a few minutes. The Ford then pulled up to a fenced-off construction site, where the passenger opened the gate after cutting the lock. The suspect truck then backed into the construction area.

Other deputies discreetly responded to the area as the Ford pulled out and attempted to leave the parking lot -- now with a trailer attached.

Deputies stopped the truck and two occupants were detained. The driver claimed to have purchased the trailer last night, and the passenger stated he just worked for the driver.

However, the owner of the trailer told us he hadn't sold his trailer, nor had he given anyone permission to take it. The driver -- Jonnie Dean Clark, 52, of Gresham -- and passenger -- Paul George Caward, 35, of Portland --were booked on charges including Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle and Possession of Burglary Tools. Their booking photos are attached.

A&B Towing responded, and were kind enough to help us put the trailer (valued at $8,000) back into the construction lot from which it had been taken.

Three Clackamas County cities -- Happy Valley, Estacada and Wilsonville -- contract with the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office to provide municipal police services.

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES: CRIME VICTIMS

Victims in these thwarted crimes are available for media interviews. Contact PIO Sgt. Mendoza for contact information.

[END]

The Keizer Police Department will be closing River Road North on Saturday, December 14, 2019, for the Keizer Holiday Lights Parade.

Please plan for the following closures and detours: 

• Lockhaven Drive will be closed at 3:00 p.m. to all traffic between River Road and McClure Street to establish the parade staging area.
• Beginning at about 6:00 p.m., River Road will be closed from Plymouth Drive to Lockhaven Drive.
• River Road traffic will be diverted to Cherry Ave NE from Plymouth Drive, and southbound River Road traffic will be diverted onto Lockhaven Drive.
• Before the beginning of the parade, traffic will be periodically allowed to cross River Road at Chemawa Road. 
• Holiday Lights Parade will begin at 7:00 p.m. and will proceed southbound on River Road from Lockhaven Drive. The parade will end at the intersection of River and Glynbrook. We anticipate opening River Road at around 9:00 p.m. as the parade proceeds south.
• Parade signs advising of the street closure have been posted on River Road as a reminder of the future closure.

For more information about the parade and parade day events visit: www.keizerchamber.com

On Tuesday, Dec. 10, firefighters will receive the rare gift of meeting an individual they rescued from a house fire in Milwaukie, six months ago. The crews who responded to and performed the rescue will host 19-year-old Timm Wilson-Kreuger and his family to a fire house lunch at 11:30 a.m. at Milwaukie Station 2, 3200 SE Harrison St., Milwaukie. After extensive medical care, months in the ICU and continued rehabilitation, Timm has reached a point in his recovery where he is able to come and visit the crews who rescued him that day.  

Lieutenant Justin McWilliams, who was part of the search and rescue effort said, “Our mission is simple, ‘To safely Protect and preserve life and property.’ What makes this career so rewarding, is to see the impact we truly have on our public. We have built a relationship and amazing bond with Tammi, Kevin and Timm over the last six months, following a significant fire that almost took everything from the Wilson family. We get to celebrate Timm’s recovery together at the firehouse, which is less than a mile from the address that brought us all together.”

Initial Incident Background

On June 13, 2019, crews were dispatched to a report that a house was on fire with occupants trapped inside. Firefighters arrived and found a single-story home with a large amount of black smoke and fire coming out of several windows. With reports confirming that someone was still inside, first arriving crews quickly made access to the home without the protection of a hose line to begin looking for the trapped individual. From witness reports and a quick systematic search, firefighters were able to locate 19-year-old Timm, who had locked himself in the hallway bathroom when the fire started.  After locating him, the firefighting team was able to make their way in low visibility and high heat conditions to a front window where he was lifted out and handed to a team of waiting firefighters. Medical care was inititated before being transported to an area hosptial. Timm, who is Down syndrome and Autistic, ended up in the bathroom after becoming scared when an accidental cooking fire started in the kitchen. In addition to the quick actions of the firefighters, the closed door was credited for keeping the smoke and heat out of the bathroom and creating a survivable space for Timm in the minutes he waited to be rescued. 

Members of the media are invited to attend this private family event.  

Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2019 at 11:30 a.m.

Milwaukie Station 2

3200 SE Harrison St., Milwaukie, OR 97222

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Vancouver, Wash. –  In Stillness and Motion; Containment of the Aesthetic, an art exhibit featuring the work of Megan Eckman and Alder Suttles will be on display at the Anstine Sixth Floor Gallery beginning Monday, Dec. 23, 2019, through March 23, 2020.

An opening reception honoring the artists is scheduled for 2:30-4:30 pm on Friday, Jan. 3, 2020, at the Anstine Gallery, sixth floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St.

This event is free and open to the public. It is sponsored by the Clark County Arts Commission.

Eckman’s Flatteringly Flat series revels in the aesthetic interplay of pattern on pattern. Eckman says, “This series of ink paintings showcases the beauty of the repetition that can be found all around us.”

While painting, Suttles contemplates how water holds us and lets us go at the same time. “I wonder about the containment of water in a pool and why we often confine the things we love.”

The Anstine Sixth Floor Gallery was named in honor of Rebecca Anstine, a local artist and founding curator of the public exhibit space who served as a Clark County Arts Commission board member.

The Anstine Gallery is open 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday, except holidays.

Seaside, Ore. – December 9, 2019 – On Sunday December 8, 2019, at approximately 11:50 p.m., the Seaside Police Department responded to a reckless driving complaint at the Seaside Outlet Mall, 1111 N. Roosevelt.  A motor vehicle had been reported to be “burning cookies” in the parking lot. Due to the type of driving by the operator Ricky Criss, 33, the vehicle’s engine caught fire near the Tesla charging station within the mall parking lot. In addition to Criss’ vehicle, damage to the charging station was also sustained.  

Upon officer arrival, the vehicle was fully involved with flames showing and Criss remained within the vehicle, refusing to get as he wanted to remove personal belongings. The responding officer had to remove Criss from the vehicle and detain him to prevent him from returning to the vehicle and to keep him from injuring himself due to the vehicle fire. Seaside Fire and Rescue responded to the scene a short time later and was able to put out the fire and prevent additional damage from occurring in the immediate area.     

Criss was investigated for driving under the influence of intoxicants and was arrested for that charge as well as reckless driving. Criss provided a breath sample that resulted in a blood alcohol content of 0.18%.  

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Cpl. Jeff Oja of the Seaside Police Department at (503) 738-6311.

end of release

PORTLAND, ORE. (Dec. 9, 2019) – Albertina Kerr is pleased to announce UnitedHealthcare will return as the presenting sponsor for the 22nd Annual Rip City Race for the Roses, to take place April 26, 2020. Kerr is also teaming up with the Portland Trail Blazers for a third year to host this popular Portland race, which includes a half-marathon, 10K, 5K, and Nike Made to Play kids 1K. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the Rip City Race for the Roses will benefit Albertina Kerr’s programs and services for children, teens, and adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and mental health challenges.

The race draws more than 2,000 runners, walkers, and wheelchair participants from across the country. Participants will start in the Rose Quarter Commons, travel across the Broadway Bridge, wind their way through downtown Portland and cross the finish line back in the Rose Quarter.

“We are truly honored UnitedHealthcare has once again made a strong commitment to partner with us for another great race in support of the children, teens, and adults we serve with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and mental health challenges,” said Jeff Carr, CEO, Albertina Kerr. “We couldn’t do what we do without the community-based support from the Trail Blazers and sponsors like UnitedHealthcare.”

“We are excited to be back as the presenting sponsor of this fun, family-focused experience that supports Kerr’s efforts to save and change lives,” said Claire Verity, CEO, UnitedHealthcare–Pacific Northwest States.

Online registration is open at RipCityRaceForTheRoses.org. All finishers will receive an official race t-shirt, a medal, a long-stemmed rose, mimosas and more. Registration prices will increase after 11:59 p.m. Dec. 30, 2019.

About Albertina Kerr
Since 1907, Albertina Kerr has strengthened Oregon families and communities. Today, Kerr provides programs and services for children, teens, adults, and their families with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD), mental health challenges, and other social barriers by:

• Serving over 53% of Oregon children and teens with I/DD who need 24 hour residential care.
• Leading the creation of employment and community living opportunities for adults with I/DD.
• Operating one of the only standalone subacute children’s crisis psychiatric facilities in Oregon.
• Providing leadership in statewide policy discussions related to disability and mental health care.
• Leading the industry discussion, training, and innovation of best practices in programs for youth with a dual diagnosis.

For more information, visit www.albertinakerr.org.

About UnitedHealthcare
UnitedHealthcare is dedicated to helping people live healthier lives and making the health system work better for everyone by simplifying the health care experience, meeting consumer health and wellness needs, and sustaining trusted relationships with care providers. In the United States, UnitedHealthcare offers the full spectrum of health benefit programs for individuals, employers, and Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, and contracts directly with more than 1.3 million physicians and care professionals, and 6,500 hospitals and other care facilities nationwide. The company also provides health benefits and delivers care to people through owned and operated health care facilities in South America. UnitedHealthcare is one of the businesses of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH), a diversified health care company. For more information, visit UnitedHealthcare at www.uhc.com or follow @UHC on Twitter.

About the Rose Quarter
Established in 1995, the Rose Quarter is a 30-acre sports and entertainment district located on the east bank of the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon. The region is highlighted by two multi-purpose arenas, the 19,393-seat Moda Center and 12,888-seat Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Together, the venues serve as homes to the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers, WHL’s Portland Winterhawks and a wide variety of concerts, family shows and other events. Founded in 1970 and purchased by the late Paul G. Allen in 1988, the Trail Blazers are the foremost resident of the Moda Center after winning the 1977 NBA Championship at Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Widely known for its innovative approaches to sustainability and environmental practices, Moda Center is the first existing arena to earn LEED Platinum Certification in 2019 after receiving LEED Gold Recertification in 2015 and becoming the first existing professional sports venue in the world to receive LEED Gold status in 2010. The Rose Quarter also includes a large commons area, annex office building, four parking garages, signature restaurant and bar Dr. Jack’s, and easy access to the city’s robust public transportation system. For more information and a list of upcoming events, visit rosequarter.com.

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The volcanic eruption on New Zealand's White Island occurred with little warning. The 2010 U.S. census notes that more than 10 million people live in Washington and Oregon alone, and populations are increasing in areas at risk for volcanic hazards. 

Oregon Office of Emergeny Management Geologic Hazards Awareness Pprogram Coordinator Althea Rizzo is available today, December 9, between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to discuss the hazards produced by Cascade Range volcanoes and how to prepare for volcanic activity.

To arranged an interview, contact Paula Negele at 503-871-8689 or paula.negele@state.or.us.

Seaside, Ore. – December 9, 2019 – On December 7, 2019 at approximately 8:16 p.m., Seaside Police responded to the area of 12th and N. Holladay for a report of a pedestrian having been struck by a vehicle. After further investigation, it was determined Erick Yetzael Mendez Lopez, 22, had been driving northbound on N. Holladay and struck a stopped vehicle, causing significant damage. Mendez Lopez continued northbound and then struck Justin Powell, 36, who was walking across the street through the intersection. Mendez Lopez continued further north on N. Holladay, fleeing the scene of the motor vehicle and pedestrian crash, having failed to render aid to Powell and exchange information required at the scene of a crash.

Seaside Officers arrived moments after the reported crash was dispatched and with help from several witnesses, officers were able to locate Mendez Lopez walking on 15th Avenue between Holladay and Roosevelt Dr. Probable cause was developed to believe Mendez Lopez was operating his vehicle under the influence of intoxicants. Mendez Lopez was cooperative throughout the investigation and provided a BAC of 0.15%. Mendez Lopez was later transported to the Clatsop County Jail on the charges of: 

• Assault III 
• Driving under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII) 
• Reckless Driving
• Two counts of Reckless Endangering Another Person
• Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver: Injured Person
• Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver: Property Damage 

Due to the serious injuries Powell received he was transported to Columbia Memorial Hospital’s Trauma Unit. Authorities are asking that if you were a witness to the incident and have not already been contacted by police to please call the Seaside Police Department at 503-738-6311 as soon as possible. 

end of release

SALEM, Ore. – Some 30,000 acres of privately owned forestland in Clackamas County could receive enhanced protections for water quality and wildlife habitat under a voluntary stewardship agreement being proposed by Seattle-based Port Blakely and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF). The agreement would be the largest of its kind in Oregon.

The proposed agreement can be viewed online at https://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Working/Pages/FPA.aspx

ODF is now accepting comments on the agreement and will do so until 5 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 9. Comments can be emailed to IVATEFORESTS.PUBLICCOMMENT@oregon.gov">PRIVATEFORESTS.PUBLICCOMMENT@oregon.gov.

An informational session about the agreement is scheduled on Wednesday, Jan. 8 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. followed by a public hearing from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. where in-person comments will be accepted by ODF. Both meetings will be at the Molalla Fire Station 82, located at 320 N. Molalla Ave. in Molalla.

Stewardship agreements are voluntary land management agreements available to landowners under Oregon’s Forest Practices Act rules. They were established by the Oregon Legislature in their current form through House Bill 2114-B in 2007.

Under a stewardship agreement, a landowner agrees to exceed ODF regulatory requirements designed to protect natural resources, such as water quality and fish and wildlife habitat, in exchange for long-term regulatory certainty under Forest Practices Act rules. About 13 such agreements are in place in Oregon but Port Blakely’s would cover the largest amount of forestland.

The proposed stewardship agreement contains forest management and conservation measures that provide enhanced protection for fish-bearing streams and aquatic water bodies. The measures also aim to create and sustain a mosaic of diverse habitats to meet the needs of many land-based wildlife species. The habitat requirements of 20 total species, both listed and unlisted by the Oregon State Department of Fish and Wildlife, are addressed, including breeding, foraging and dispersing habitats.

“Port Blakely’s forest management plan is intended to ensure that there are better habitat conditions over the long term,” said Private Forests Division Chief Kyle Abraham. “In exchange for that commitment to enhanced stewardship, the company gets long-term certainty about state forestry rules governing water quality and wildlife habitat.”

A few examples cited by Port Blakely include leaving more wildlife trees standing in a unit after harvest, leaving wider stream buffers, retaining upland habitat patches, retaining legacy features that are relics of past forests, and placing large woody debris into small and medium fish-bearing streams to enhance aquatic habitat.

“This agreement is a great example of Port Blakely’s approach to stewardship forestry, our commitment to demonstrate that forestlands are best managed for shared economic, environmental and community benefits,” said Court Stanley, President of US Forestry for Port Blakely. “It will allow us to continue to protect and enhance fish and wildlife habitat while also ensuring long-term regulatory certainty, and therefore economic stability, for our customers, employees, and family owners.”

The Oregon Legislature authorized ODF to enter into such voluntary stewardship agreements with landowners more than a decade ago. Under such agreements, landowners agreeing to follow a written forest management plan reviewed and approved by ODF will be allowed to continue operating under that plan for a set number of years, regardless of future regulatory changes. The length of the proposed Port Blakely agreement is 50 years.

A family-owned company since the early 20th century, Port Blakely has been involved in forestry in the Pacific Northwest for five generations. The company, owns 149,000 acres of forestland in both Oregon and Washington State as well as 93,000 acres in New Zealand. In parallel to the stewardship agreement, the company reports that it is also working with federal agencies to finalize a complementary Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) for this forestland. It would be the company’s third voluntary federal conservation agreement.  Since 2002 the company’s U.S. forestlands have been certified through the Sustainable Forest Initiative, earning recertification every year since.

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