On Friday, April 23. 2021 at approximately 3:40 A.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a vehicle crash on Hwy 20 near milepost 257.

Preliminary investigation revealed a Mercury Sable, operated by Jenifer Haueter (31) of Vale, was westbound and crossed into the eastbound lane and collided with a Chevrolet Avalanche operated by Marion Williams (54) of Vale.

Haueter sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Williams was transported by ground to Ontario and then by Life Flight to Boise.

OSP was assisted by Ontario Fire & Rescue and ODOT.

Vancouver, Wash. – Public Health is urging Clark County residents to continue taking steps to slow the spread of COVID-19, including getting vaccinated, as case numbers continue to rise.

In the last seven days, Clark County has averaged 80 new cases per day – up from 69 new cases per day the previous seven days. This time last month, Clark County was averaging 43 new cases per day.

Case numbers are increasing across all age groups, but the biggest increase is occurring in young adults 20 to 49 years old. The smallest increase is among people 65 years and older, which has the highest COVID-19 immunization rates in the county.

While the number of Clark County residents who have been vaccinated is increasing daily, a large portion of the community is not yet protected. In Clark County, about 32% of people have received at least one dose and about 22% are fully vaccinated.

“As more people get vaccinated against COVID-19, the virus will have fewer people to infect and less opportunity to spread in our community,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County health officer and Public Health director. “We must continue to take other steps to slow the spread of COVID-19 – wear face coverings, maintain physical distancing and avoid large gatherings – until we can get more people vaccinated.”

“If you’re not yet vaccinated, now is the time to schedule your appointment,” Melnick added. “COVID-19 vaccine appointments are widely available at medical offices, pharmacies and community vaccination sites.”

For more information about how to access vaccine appointments, visit the Public Health COVID-19 Vaccine webpage.

COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective at preventing serious illness and death from COVID-19. Early data also suggests the vaccines are effective against the B.1.1.7 variant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

The B.1.1.7 variant, which spreads more easily and quickly than other variants, has been documented in Clark County. The state Department of Health estimates that about 50-60% of all COVID-19 cases in the state are due to the B.1.1.7 variant.

Increasing virus activity

Clark County’s COVID-19 activity rate this week is 147.6 cases per 100,000 people over 14 days. If the trend of increasing case numbers continues, the county’s COVID-19 activity rate is on track to soon exceed 200 cases per 100,000 people.

To remain in Phase 3 of the state’s Roadmap to Recovery reopening plan the county needs to meet at least one of two metrics: a rate of less than 200 cases per 100,000 people over 14 days or a rate of less than 5 new hospital admissions per 100,000 people over seven days. On Monday, the county’s hospitalization rate was 2.4 new admissions per 100,000 people.

The state will next evaluate counties on Monday, May 3, with any phase changes going into effect Friday, May 7.

Clark & Cowlitz County, Wash. - School districts across Southwest Washington are now enrolling kindergarten students for the 2021-22 school year. While school may continue to look different in some respects because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, classes (a combination of both in-person and remote learning) will still begin in the fall.

Families with children who are five years of age by August 31, should start the enrollment process now. Begin by checking the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) website in your county of residence (links to Clark County and Cowlitz County GIS sites are included here) to determine your assigned school district. Then contact that school district to determine specific enrollment steps. In most cases, kindergarten enrollment can be completed online.

After a child has been registered for kindergarten in their assigned district, most districts conduct a school visit, but during the pandemic this visitation may be conducted virtually. You can find out a district’s process and protocols by getting in touch with your district of residence.

Clark & Cowlitz County School District Contact Information:

• Vancouver Public Schools: Visit https://vansd.org/kindergarten to register online and for more information, including summer Kindergarten Jump Start. 
• Evergreen Public Schools Elementary Education: Evergreen Kindergarten enrollment 360-604-4024 
• Washougal School District: http://www.washougal.k12.wa.us/new-student-enrollment/
• Camas School District: http://www.camas.wednet.edu/schools-resources/resources/new-student-registration/ 
• Battle Ground Public Schools:https://www.battlegroundps.org/kindergarten-enrollment/
• Hockinson School District: https://www.hocksd.org/Content/onlineenrollment
• Ridgefield School District: https://www.ridgefieldsd.org/article/434582?org=district 
• Woodland School District: Student enrollment Webpage or contact Jody Brentin, District Registrar at rentinj@woodlandschools.org">brentinj@woodlandschools.org or (360) 841-2707
• Kelso School District: https://www.kelso.wednet.edu/page/online-enrollment 
• Kalama School District: https://www.kalamaschools.org/page/kindergarten-enrollment 
• Longview Public Schools: https://www.longviewschools.com/family-resources/student-enrollment
• Castle Rock School District: Contact the Primary Office 360-501-2900 or enroll online https://www.crschools.org/news/what_s_new/kindergarten_enrollment_is_now_open
• La Center School District: https://www.lacenterschools.org/lces-kindergarten-enrollment/
• Toutle Lake School District: Contact Toutle Lake Elementary at 360-274-6142

In his video address to the Battle Ground community, Mayor Adrian Cortes highlights enhanced city services and recognizes the community partnerships that make Battle Ground a uniquely special place.

View the State of the City Address.

A transcript of the address is available on the city’s website.

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The City of Battle Ground, located in the heart of Clark County, WA serves 22,180 residents.  The surrounding natural beauty, access to recreation activities, and close proximity to the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area make Battle Ground a desirable place to live and has created a period of considerable growth. The City functions under a Council-Manager form of government and provides vital public services such as police, planning and development, roads, parks, utilities and others. City leaders operate under guiding principles that were created with community input through a recent visioning process. More information about the City can be found at www.cityofbg.org.

VANCOUVER, WA (April 22, 2021) – On the heels of April 20 (4/20), a date commonly associated with cannabis, Prevent Coalition is reminding adults in Southwest Washington who have cannabis in the home to keep it secure to prevent small children and teens from accidental ingestion.

To help drive that message home, the Coalition has partnered with local cannabis retailers, community organizations and other prevention coalitions to develop a social media and point of purchase campaign called Secure Your Cannabis.

Any time customers purchase cannabis products from participating retailers, they will receive a reminder card encouraging them to secure their products and talk with youth about substances.

“The brain is still developing through adolescence, and cannabis use during this stage can alter its chemistry,” explained Jesse Jimenez, Community Prevention Project Coordinator for Prevention Coalition and ESD 112. “So not only is it important to keep cannabis secure and away from children and teens, it’s also equally important to have nonjudgmental conversations with young people about how cannabis impacts their brains differently than adults.”

Retailers participating in the Secure Your Cannabis campaign include:

• Cannabis Country Store (1910 W Main St., Battle Ground)
• The Herbery (four Vancouver locations: NE Fourth Plain; St. Johns Rd.; Chkalov; NE 78th St.)
• High End Marketplace (1924 Broadway St., Vancouver)
• Margies Pot Shop (405 E Steuben St., Cook)

In addition to the point of purchase cards, Prevent Coalition and ESD 112 will promote Secure Your Cannabis graphics on their social media channels over the coming days and weeks.

You can learn more and download campaign materials at http://bit.ly/secureyourcannabis. The website outlines the campaign, offers tools for talking to youth about Cannabis, describes laws in Washington and provides materials you can download to implement point of purchase projects.

About Prevent Coalition:

Supported by the fiscal agent ESD 112, Prevent Coalition is a community coalition formed in 2003 to increase collaboration, awareness, and reduce youth substance use in Southwest Washington. Prevent also implements initiatives for rural communities across Washington state. As a community mobilizer, we’re creating a culture promoting healthy choices; advocating for policies and regulations that protect, empower and nurture youth; and facilitating positive opportunities for youth to be involved and thrive. For more info, visit www.preventcoalition.org.

Portland, Ore. – St. Mary’s Academy dared its community of supporters to dream big, and they rose to the challenge, generously raising $851,000 for the all-girls, Catholic, college-prep high school.

On Saturday, April 17, 2021, guests gathered virtually to support the young women of St. Mary’s Academy at the 33rd annual auction, Dare to Dream.  Guests from across the country joined the live, webcasted event for an hour and a half of entertainment, touching testimonials, and bidding on fabulous auction packages, including a 10-day trip to Molokai, Hawaii, a sailing experience on America’s Cup yacht in San Diego and a private dinner for 8 at Cellar Z at Zupan’s Market.

Emily Niedermeyer Becker ’86, Vice President for Development, shared her thoughts following this year’s event.  “We couldn’t be more thankful to our community of supporters who stepped up in ways unimagined to support the young women of St. Mary’s Academy.  In the midst of an incredibly challenging year for our city, our country and our world, they confirmed their commitment and belief in the power of an all-girls education.  We are thrilled to be able to continue making St. Mary’s Academy accessible for any young woman, regardless of their financial situation, and are so proud to be graduating the future women leaders of tomorrow.”

The webcasted event was co-hosted by Cathy Marshall, Managing Editor and former news anchor for KGW Newschannel 8 and Greg Bell, longtime Oregonian, author, motivational speaker and father to Sofia ‘23, a current St. Mary’s student.

This year’s four auction co-chairs were all St. Mary’s Academy dads. In addition to Bell, the co-chairs included Tom Fink, past parent to three St. Mary’s alumnae:  Amy ’95, Jeani ’97 and Molly ’99 and current member of the St. Mary’s Board of Directors; Greg Meyer, parent to current student Avery ’24; and Hayden Thomas, past parent to Claire ’04 and Lauren ’07 and current Board member.

Thomas shares his inspiration for being involved in this year’s event.  “St. Mary’s has a long history of excellence, and I am always proud to say my daughters went to school there.  What I admire most about SMA is the focus on the growth and development of young women.  St. Mary’s is an institution that serves their mission so well and has done so from the very beginning.  Annually, the auction is one of St. Mary’s signature events.  It is not only a critical fundraiser but a joyful celebration of the SMA community, and I feel privileged to be involved in this year’s event.”

During the live event, current students shared how St. Mary’s has dared them to dream.  Liana, class of 2023 shared, “St. Mary’s dares me to dream by challenging me to be my best self.”  Sophia, class of 2022, shared, “St. Mary’s dares me to dream by inspiring me to pursue my passions and giving me the resources to grow into a responsible leader.”  And, Rose, class of 2023, shared, “St. Mary’s dares me to dream by teaching me to be a decisive, strong young woman.”

The live event was preceded by a week-long silent auction with over 250 packages available for bidding. Additionally, St. Mary’s again held its much anticipated raffles for both a 2020 Range Rover Evoque S and a $5,000 travel gift certificate.  Participants could also purchase tickets for a “Golden Ticket”, allowing the winner to select their choice of any of the live auction packages.  This year’s Golden Ticket winner was Marcy Moore Forman ’67 and she selected an Italian Dinner for 8 with wine pairings in a location of her choosing.  Upon learning she held the winning ticket, she exclaimed, “Wow, that is so great! Now I have to figure out how to whittle down my guest list!”  Forman is a St. Mary’s Academy alumna, and her granddaughter will be joining St. Mary’s as a freshman in the fall.

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Located in the heart of downtown Portland, OR, St. Mary's Academy is the state's oldest continuously-operating school and only all-girls school. Founded in 1859 by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, St. Mary's Academy serves 680 young women in grades 9-12. The school's college acceptance rate is 100% and SMA students achieve, excel and are recognized locally, regionally and nationally in academic fields, leadership, STEM, the arts, athletics, community service and extra- and co-curricular activities. www.smapdx.org

Linn County Sheriff Jim Yon reports the body found last weekend along the Santiam River in the Mill City area has been identified.  The body was found at the river’s edge by someone walking in the area on Sunday, April 18th. 

The body was positively identified through dental records as Isaac Pond, 21, from Mill City.  Pond left his residence in Mill City on foot after a disagreement with his family on December 31, 2020. 

An autopsy was performed, and no evidence of foul play was found.  Detectives are continuing to investigate a possible cause of death.  Anyone with information who may have seen Pond after his disappearance is encouraged to contact Detective Steve Frambes at (541) 967-3950.

Please see attachment.

April 21, 2021

DA Mike Schmidt releases video statement, community update on recent riot charges

PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt released a video statement and community update on the riot charges filed that are associated with recent property damage.

District Attorney Mike Schmidt said in part:

“The violence and property destruction we’ve seen in Portland for nearly 11 months now is unacceptable.  These harmful and criminal acts do not align with our community values. The First Amendment gives everyone the right to gather and to voice their opinions—whether we agree or overwhelmingly rebuke those beliefs. As District Attorney, I will always defend a person’s right to free speech, but I will not defend nor support anyone who knowingly, recklessly or intentionally destroys property or engages in violence.”

“My office continues to prioritize the prosecution of people who are destroying property and committing violence—and this is nothing new. This is what we’ve been doing since I took office. That was my instruction to my deputies on day one: focus on, work with law enforcement and prosecute the people who are starting fires, who are destroying windows and who are committing assaults.”

“Recently, we have seen a positive shift from law enforcement making targeted arrests on the people who are accused of starting fires, destroying windows and committing assaults. I want to thank our local law enforcement for prioritizing these cases. These targeted arrests are important; they allow us to focus our limited resources on the people causing the most harm, and it will ensure that people demonstrating without violence are protected.”

Additionally, District Attorney Mike Schmidt announced today the filing of a new criminal case against Theodore Matthee-O’Brien.

Matthee-O’Brien is charged with two counts of Criminal Mischief in the First Degree and one count of felony Riot.

On April 19, 2021 the State filed one count of criminal mischief in the first degree and one count of felony riot against Matthee-O’Brien for conduct that occurred on April 16, 2021 when Matthee-O’Brien allegedly damaged windows at the Oregon Historical Society. For more information on that case, please click here.

This week, the Portland Police Bureau’s Central Precinct Neighborhood Response Team reviewed security videos from Nordstrom, located at 701 Southwest Broadway, and the U.S. Bancorp Tower, located at 111 Southwest 5th Avenue. Both locations had windows damaged during the riot on April 16, 2021.

According to court documents, the videos obtained by Portland Police show Matthee-O'Brien smashing windows at Nordstrom and the U.S. Bancorp Tower on April 16, 2021. The videos show Matthee-O'Brien acting in concert with five or more people engaged in tumultuous and violent behavior, creating the grave risk of public alarm.

The damage to Nordstrom and the U.S. Bancorp is estimated to be over $10,000 at each location.

No additional information can be released by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office at this time.

A charging document is only an accusation of a crime. Matthee-O'Brien is innocent unless and until proven guilty.

###

Media Contact:

Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Email: rent.Weisberg@mcda.us">Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Treasurer’s Office announced that Treasurer Alishia Topper will be opening a drive-through tax payment drop-off window.

In response to the Joint Lobby being closed due to COVID-19, Topper is opening a convenient drive-through drop-off at the parking structure kiosk at the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. The kiosk will be open from 9 am to 4 pm on Thursday, April 29, and Friday, April 30. The kiosk is near the Franklin Street entrance to the parking garage.

“In recognition of the health and safety challenges of in-person services due to COVID-19, I want taxpayers to have the option to drop-off their payment without leaving their car,” Topper said.

The drive-through option is meant as a convenience and is for pre-written checks only, and no receipt will be provided. The Treasurer’s Office will not accept any other forms of payment at the drive through.

In addition to the kiosk, taxpayers can also seal their check payments into an envelope and drop them into a secured drop box located on the first floor of the Public Service Center at 1300 Franklin St. during the hours of 9 am to 4:30 pm, Monday-Friday.

Taxpayers may pay property taxes online using a credit or debit card or from their checking or savings account. E-Checks (from a savings or checking account) are free. Debit card transactions are a flat rate of $3.95 and credit card transactions fees are assessed a 2.39% vendor fee.

To make a payment, go to www.clark.wa.gov/treasurer/payment-options, or call 1.833.440.8685. To register to receive your tax statement electronically and manage your property taxes online, go to www.paydici.com/clark-county-wa/search/landing.

Tax payments can be mailed to the Clark County Treasurer, PO Box 35150, Seattle, WA 98124-5150. Taxpayers are encouraged to use the return envelope and payment coupon provided with their statement to mail their payments.

Tax payments must be postmarked by Friday, April 30, 2021, to avoid interest charges.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A local man has been charged with federal child exploitation crimes after using various social media applications, including Snapchat and TikTok, to stalk and sexually exploit a minor victim from Australia, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug.

Jorge Rosales, 25, of Beaverton, Oregon, has been charged by criminal complaint with sexually exploiting children, distributing and possessing child pornography, cyberstalking, and enticing a minor online.

“This case demonstrates the extraordinary lengths sexual predators will go to victimize children. It also demonstrates the tenacity and reach of law enforcement when investigating these heinous crimes,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Asphaug. “I applaud the incredible investigative efforts of our domestic and international law enforcement partners to identify this defendant and see to it that his ability to victimize vulnerable children across the globe ends immediately.”

“Protecting our children from predators lurking on the internet is truly a global challenge, requiring coordination with our international law enforcement partners” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) operations in the Pacific Northwest. “HSI will continue to pursue online predators that exploit popular apps such as Snapchat and TikTok to lure innocent children.”

According to court documents, in April 2021, a special agent from HSI received an investigative referral from INTERPOL and the Australian Federal Police related to the sexual exploitation of a then-nine-year-old victim in Australia. According to the Australian authorities, in 2016 or 2017, an individual later identified as Rosales began communicating with the minor victim using Musical.ly, a social media application now known as TikTok. Rosales claimed he was a 36-year-old male named Alex.

Over a period of months, Rosales engaged the minor in a series of progressively more sexually explicit conversations even after the minor told him she was nine years old. Rosales sent the minor sexually explicit photos and videos to demonstrate how she could engage in various sex acts. These materials included photos and videos of older men having sex with toddlers and young girls. Rosales encouraged the victim to produce and send him sexually explicit photos and videos of herself. When the victim declined, he threatened to turn her friends and family against her, and, in at least one instance, sent her photos of animals beaten until injured. Eventually, the minor victim sent naked photos of herself to Rosales.

Rosales later began communicating with the minor victim using Snapchat, wherein he would send her videos of himself masturbating. He claimed he could see where the victim lived on Snap Map, a Snapchat feature where users can see the location of various Snaps, and threatened to come get her if she didn’t continue sending him explicit photos. These threats prompted the victim to send Rosales additional naked photos and videos, which she produced at his request.

Eventually, after receiving many similar requests from Rosales, the minor victim blocked Rosales’ accounts. In response, over a period of several years, Rosales created and used dozens of new social media accounts to stalk and torment the minor victim. Rosales began following several of the victim’s friends on TikTok. On one occasion, one of the victim’s friends followed a link posted by Rosales that led to a website displaying photos of young naked girls. The website included some of the photos the minor victim had sent to Rosales several years earlier.

Australian investigators obtained and sent to HSI the TikTok subscriber record for the first account Rosales used to communicate with the minor victim. This record included IP addresses later matched to Rosales’ mobile phone and Beaverton residence. Investigators from HSI searched the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s CyberTipline Reports and found 13 reports connected to Rosales’ mobile phone and home internet connection. These reports indicated that Rosales had used several social media platforms, including Snapchat, TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram, to distribute photos and videos depicting child sexual abuse to other users between September 2019 and November 2020. HSI investigators also discovered a parallel investigation into Rosales’ conduct being conducted by the Hillsboro Police Department.

Rosales was arrested on April 21, 2021, and made his initial appearance in federal court today before U.S. Magistrate Judge John V. Acosta. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

This case was investigated by HSI and the Hillsboro Police Department with assistance from INTERPOL, the Australian Federal Police, and the Victoria Police in Victoria, Australia. It is being prosecuted by Gary Y. Sussman, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at www.ice.gov/tips.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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This coming Saturday, April 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the public may turn in unused and expired medications to the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office in the parking lot of the Public Safety Training Center (12700 SE 82nd Ave, Clackamas).

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) coordinates twice-yearly turn-in events with local law enforcement. This is a no-questions-asked opportunity for drugs to be properly turned in and safely destroyed via incineration. This turn-in site is provided in collaboration with Oak Lodge Water Service District.

Drugs allowed for this event include:

• Prescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs to include: tablets, capsules, medicinal creams, patches and vet meds.
• Vaping devices and cartridges may be turned in, provided lithium batteries are removed.
• Liquids (including intravenous solutions), syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs will NOT be accepted.

For more information, or to find a drop off location closer to you, visit https://takebackday.dea.gov

A flyer for Saturday's event is attached.

UPDATE -- ADDITIONAL FDA RESOURCES:

A few additional resources on safe drug disposal from the FDA:

• Overview of how to dispose of unused medicines
• YouTube version of the FDA's overview
• FDA "Flush List" for flushable liquid medicines
• Information on disposing of liquid medicine NOT on the FDA's "flush list"

[END]

Effective at 8a.m. on Friday, April 23, the “High Fire Danger Burn Ban” will be lifted in Washington County.

Residents planning to conduct backyard burning or businesses conducting commercial agricultural burning will still need to follow all applicable Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), and Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) laws for burning. Fire departments/districts do not have authority to enforce air-quality complaints regarding smoke.

Check with your local fire agency about outdoor burning rules. For people residing in TVF&R’s service area, you can learn about current rules and look up your address on an interactive map: https://tvfr.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/lookup/index.html?appid=df8d5dd233854662ae9b999e911876c5 or call TVF&R’s Burn Information Line at 503-259-1789.

Vancouver, Wash. – The COVID-19 community testing site located at Tower Mall (5403 E. Mill Plain Blvd.) will close at the end of the day Friday, April 30.

More than 10,000 free COVID-19 tests have been administered at the Tower Mall Community Testing site since it opened Jan. 12. The free, no-barrier testing site has been a partnership between Clark County Public Health, City of Vancouver, Clark Regional Emergency Services Agencies (CRESA), Washington State Department of Health and Curative.

The Tower Mall community testing site was opened to address the critical need for testing when access was extremely limited. Other Clark County COVID-19 testing resources have become more available in recent months, resulting in an overall decline in tests being administered at Tower Mall. With this in mind, Clark County Public Health and the City of Vancouver made the decision to close the testing site and focus on increasing capacity for vaccination efforts.

 “While COVID-19 vaccination has become the focus across the country, testing continues to be an important tool for slowing the spread of COVID-19 in our community,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County health officer and Public Health director. “We encourage anyone with COVID-19 symptoms or who has been in close contact with someone who tests positive to seek testing at another local testing site.” 

Tower Mall will continue to offer COVID-19 vaccination by appointment. Additional days of operation, including the possibility evening hours, are being considered. Operations staff currently working at the testing site will be transferred to the vaccine site or return to their previous roles working in Vancouver Parks and Recreation.

“The Tower Mall community testing program has been a key tool in our city’s COVID-19 response,” said Vancouver mayor, Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “I am proud of the excellent and compassionate service our city employees have provided to people seeking COVID-19 testing. The support and guidance we received from our partners at Health Commons and Curative made it possible for our staff to offer this important public health resource to the community.”

The Tower Mall COVID-19 community testing site will continue to operate 9 am to 3:30 pm Tuesday – Saturday through April 30. Visit www.ClarkCountyCOVIDtesting.org to pre-register for a test.

Information about other free and low cost COVID-19 testing locations in Clark County is available on the Public Health website or by calling 888-225-4625, 8 am to 5 pm weekdays.

On Wednesday, April 21, 2021, at approximately 8:30 pm, West Linn Police were dispatched to a crash on Willamette Falls Drive, between 6th Avenue and Chestnut Drive, involving two vehicles. 

On arrival, WLPD Officers and Tualatin Fire and Rescue Crew Members began life saving efforts on the driver of a Jeep, later identified as 52 year old Stephanie Chambers of Molalla, and the driver of a Prius, later identified as 21 year old Blaise McGuire of West Linn.  Both Chambers and McGuire succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced deceased at the crash scene.  A juvenile sibling traveling with McGuire was transported to the hospital for observation.

The WLPD has waited to releases the names of those involved until both families were able to be notified.

This crash is still under investigation by the Clackamas County Criminal Reconstruction and Forensics Technicians (CRAFT) Team.

The West Linn Police Department wishes to pass on our deepest sympathies to the involved families and friends.

Higher Education Resource Guide releases the best online programs for 2021

Salem, Ore., April 22, 2021 — Chemeketa Community College has earned top ranking for Best Online Hospitality Management Degree Programs by Intelligent.com. The comprehensive research guide is based on an assessment of 1,280 accredited colleges and universities. Each program is evaluated based on curriculum quality, graduation rate, reputation, and post-graduate employment. The 2021 rankings are then calculated through a unique scoring system which includes student engagement, potential return on investment and leading third party evaluations. The algorithm collects and analyzes multiple rankings into one score to easily compare each university.

Intelligent.com analyzed 128 schools, on a scale of 0 to 100, with only 58 making it to the final list. To access the complete ranking, please visit: https://www.intelligent.com/best-online-hospitality-management-degree-programs/

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For more than 50 years, Chemeketa Community College has committed itself to transforming lives and our community through exceptional learning experiences in the Mid-Willamette Valley. As the second multi-campus district in Oregon, Chemeketa serves 30,000 students annually at its Salem and Yamhill Valley campuses, as well as Brooks, Eola, Winema, Dallas, Woodburn and Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI).

Chemeketa Community College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and educational institution.

About Intelligent.com

Intelligent.com provides unbiased research to help students make informed decisions about higher education programs. The website offers curated guides which include the best degree programs as well as information about financial aid, internships and even study strategies. With comprehensive, user-friendly guides and hundreds of program rankings, Intelligent.com is a trusted source among students and prospective students. To learn more, please visit https://www.intelligent.com/.

On Thursday, April 22, 2021 at 12:44 a.m., Albany Police Officers arrested a third juvenile involved in the Assault/Hate Crime that occurred on April 13, 2021 at Swanson Park in Albany.

The arrest of this 16-year-old male juvenile occurred without incident.  The juvenile was taken to the Linn-Benton Detention Facility and lodged on the following charges:

• Assault in the Third Degree
• Conspiracy to Commit Assault in the Third Degree
• Bias Crime in the First Degree
• Tampering with a Witness

Albany Police Department Detectives are continuing the investigation, attempting to locate additional juvenile suspects in this investigation.  Albany Police are encouraging involved suspects and/or parents of the suspects to contact the Detective Division and turn themselves in.

Anyone with information regarding this Assault/Hate Crime incident is asked to call the Albany Police Department Detectives at 541-917-7686.

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April 22, 2021

Multnomah County proclaims this week as “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week”

PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, the Multnomah County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed the week of April 18 through April 24, 2021 as “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week” in Multnomah County.

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt said:

“This is more than an occasion that we mark on our calendars each year. It’s a promise to survivors of crime that we stand with them, that survivors have a voice and that their voices will always be heard. Supporting victims, building trust and engaging communities—that is what National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is all about, and that is what Multnomah County is prioritizing every day as we serve survivors of crime.”

By declaring this week as “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week,” the Multnomah County Board of County Commissioners made several findings that include:

• Crime impacts each person uniquely, it can change the way a person sees themselves as well as how they see the world around them. It can shatter a person’s sense of safety and negative consequences can ripple out into every area of their life. These impacts are felt not only by the person directly harmed but those closest to them; through families, friendships and whole communities;
• Crimes can leave a lasting impact on any person, regardless of age, national origin, race, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, immigration, or economic status;
• Serving victims, honoring their rights, and being responsive to their diverse needs, restores hope to survivors and supports healthy, thriving communities;
• The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office and Multnomah County Department of Community Justice renew our commitment to preventing violence before it begins.

Click here to download the pre-produced proclamation reading that includes Rhea DuMont (Community Justice Manager for the Victim and Survivor Services unit with the Multnomah County Department of Community Justice), Emily Hyde (Supervisor of the Multnomah County Distirct Attorney’s Victim’s Assistance Program), John Casalino (Chief Deputy District Attorney) and District Attorney Mike Schmidt.

#MCDA#

Media Contact:

Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Email: rent.Weisberg@mcda.us">Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

ODHS is sponsoring 350 spots in Oregon to join the First Annual Rural Conference on Youth Homelessness. Point Source Youth is hosting the conference. Point Source Youth is a leading national partner in advocacy, technical assistance, and research and evaluation pertaining to youth experiencing homelessness.

The virtual conference will be held May 18-19.

The intent of the conference is to bring youth advocates, service providers, activists and thought leaders together from across the rural US. Attendees will focus on best practices for ending youth homelessness through the lens of intersectionality. Brittany Garner, Director South & Rural conference director at Point Source Youth informs, “The goal of this conference is furthering the movement for rural equity. Rural communities deserve equal representation, funding, and decision-making power when it comes to solving youth homelessness”.

“We are excited to sponsor this event,” said Self-Sufficiency Programs Director Dan Haun. “The conference will help create a connected community of individuals working to ensure that all youth have access to a safe, empowering place to call home.”

To register for the conference, go to: www.PointSourceYouth.org/RuralConference.

Youth and young adults may register at no cost. For all others, when registering, enter promo code ODHS100 at checkout.

See the ODHS Runaway and Homeless Youth web page for more information about the program.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Fire Marshal Dan Young has extended a temporary burn ban that went into effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday, April 16, 2021, that will now end at 12:01 am Tuesday, April 27, 2021. Clark County joins Washington State Department of Natural Resources and Skamania, Cowlitz, Pacific, Lewis and Wahkiakum counties in extending this burn ban.

The burn ban applies to outdoor debris burning.

The Fire Marshal also is rescinding all burning permits issued prior to the ban. Permits can be reissued or extended when the ban is lifted. The burning restrictions do not apply to federally managed lands.

“I’m extending the burn ban to ensure that we get the forecasted rain this weekend to help with the unusually dry conditions that exist right now,” said Young.

Recreational campfires on forest lands are allowed only in improved fire pits in designated campgrounds, such as commercial campgrounds and local, county and state parks. On private land, recreational fires are permitted when built according to the following regulations:

• Recreational fires must be in a metal-, stone- or masonry-lined fire pit such as those in improved campgrounds or available at home and garden stores.
• Size may not exceed 3 feet in diameter by 2 feet in height.
• Fires must be at least 25 feet from a structure or other combustible material and have at least 20 feet of clearance from overhead fuels such as tree limbs, patio covers or carports.
• Fires must be attended at all times by a responsible person at least 16 years old who has the ability and tools to extinguish the fire. Tools include a shovel and either five gallons of water or a connected and charged water hose.
• Portable outdoor fireplaces, also known as patio fireplaces, designed to burn solid wood should not be operated within 15 feet of a structure or combustible material and must always be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Completely extinguish recreational fires by covering them with water or moist soil and stirring with a shovel until all parts are cool to the touch.
• Self-contained camp stoves are a safe and easy alternative to campfires.

Young urges county residents to practice wildfire prevention by creating a “defensible space” around their homes. Find out more about wildfire prevention on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/code-administration/wildfire-prevention.

For more information, please contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 564.397.2186 or visit the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/code-administration/outdoor-burning.

Attachments: Death certificate, tort claims notice & photos: Jacob Macduff March 9, 2020; Jacob Macduff with mother, Maria Macduff, and pickup truck March 18, 2020

The mother of Jacob Macduff wants to know what happened. "It's been over 90 days," she said, "since the police shot and killed my son while he was in mental health crisis. No one has been able to tell me how or why. I think it's reasonable – more than reasonable – to expect some answers after all this time."

Jacob Macduff was killed by Tigard Police on January 6, 2021. The 26-year-old had been experiencing what his mother and his roommate describe as a "mental health crisis." Neighbors called police to Macduff's apartment because of the noise he was causing, punching holes in the apartment's walls. When the police arrived, he became scared and ran and locked himself in his parked pickup. Because the truck was registered to the mother, police called her in the middle of the crisis to ask for permission to break a window on the vehicle. The mother, Maria Macduff, a retired medical doctor residing in Santa Barbara, gave the police permission, but cautioned them that the event was mental health related and asked them to be "gentle with my son." A short time later, she learned her son had been shot and killed.

Since then, the police and the investigating agency, the Washington County District Attorney's Office, have provided no details about what led to the shooting. What the family does know was contained in the state death certificate. The document lists "homicide" for "manner of death," and "multiple gunshot wounds of torso" as "immediate cause of death." It also says, "Shot by police during confrontation."

Dr. Macduff retained Portland attorney Scott Levin to help get information from the law enforcement agencies.

"What steps did they take to defuse the situation?" said Portland attorney Scott Levin, who represents Jacob's family. "What protocols did they follow to reach the point where it seemed necessary to shoot and kill a sick young man? Those are some of the things we'd like to find out."

Levin filed a tort claim notice with the City of Tigard and the Tigard Police Department on April 13. The attorney said the purpose of the notice was to preserve the family's right to a legal claim against the police, depending on what is revealed about the facts of the case.

Thirteen-year Water Bureau veteran Jodie Inman takes the helm as Water Bureau’s Chief Engineer on April 22. Selected after a competitive process, Inman is the second woman in the role in 150 years. Outgoing Chief Engineer Teresa Elliott will retire later this summer. 

“I’m honored to be the second woman in this role. I think it speaks to the efforts that the Water Bureau, the City, and the industry are making in being more inclusive. I’m thankful to have worked in places that have had females in leadership and encouraged growth, including Teresa as the previous Chief and Gabriel Solmer as our Administrator.” said Inman. “For me, leadership is about building relationships and seeking to understand people’s perspectives. At some point, a decision needs to be made but I want to be there for meaningful dialogue.”

Inman said she is invigorated by working on some of the most critical infrastructure investments in the Water Bureau’s recent history, the Bull Run Treatment projects and Willamette River Crossing, while maintaining a strong focus on affordability. 

“These projects are an opportunity to provide reliable and safe drinking water to our customers and future Portlanders,” Inman said. “I am honored to lead the teams improving seismic resilience, for life and safety, but also to support economic recovery. I will ensure that we have the tools to adapt to factors like climate change and future regulations—not to mention the highly important everyday work of maintaining, repairing, and replacing our aging infrastructure.” 

Inman recently held the position of Interim Chief Engineer for three months. She began at the Water Bureau with the engineering planning group, where she supervised a professional and technical staff in support of project planning, asset management, and hydraulic modeling. From there, she worked as an engineering supervisor on special projects. She leaves behind her most recent position of engineering manager in the design group.  

“I’ve worked on a wide diversity of projects that have allowed me to build relationships around the bureau and have given me a well-rounded perspective,” she said.  

Inman recognizes that one of the greatest opportunities before the City is our challenge to end historic and systemic racism. She plans to build on the bureau’s work by incorporating equity throughout all processes, from project selection to how communities engage to identifying equity impacts through construction.  

“Our projects and capital work provide real opportunity to make a difference, through support of local minority and women firms and promotion of living wage jobs for those same historically underrepresented groups.”

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 53 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,200 miles of pipes. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day.

On April 21st, 2021, at approximately 10:41 p.m., an off-duty firefighter reported a car fire on Sunnyview Road NE near Hibbard Rd NE in rural Marion County.  While firefighters worked to put out the car fire they a found a person deceased inside the vehicle. 

Detectives from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office were called in to investigate the suspicious death.  The victim has not yet been identified.  The investigation is still in preliminary stages, no additional information is available for release at time.

Investigators are asking anyone who may have information about this incident, or residents in the vicinity who may have surveillance footage, to call the Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at (503) 540-8079 or submit a tip online at https://www.co.marion.or.us/SO/Pages/tip411.aspx.

The Sheriff’s Office is being assisted in this investigation by the Keizer Police Department, Marion County District Attorney’s Office, Oregon State Police, Silverton Fire District, and Stayton Police Department.

Oregon Community Foundation Awards $6.2 Million to Washington County to Shelter Vulnerable Community Members

Project Turnkey helps catalyze first year-round shelter for Single Adults in Washington County

Hillsboro, Ore. – April 22, 2021 – Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) today announced Washington County has been selected to receive a Project Turnkey grant of $6.2 million for the acquisition and conversion of a 60-room motel in Hillsboro, Oregon. Through the pandemic, the property will serve in part as a COVID-respite shelter for seasonal and migrant workers and others needing safe shelter, and predominantly as a stable shelter for people experiencing homelessness. This will be the first year-round shelter for single adults in Washington County, which will add to the county's existing sheltering capacity.

Community organizations – Bienestar and the Urban League of Portland – have partnered with Washington County and will help ensure that programs, services and referrals are culturally relevant to meet the specific needs of underserved populations.

“With help from Project Turnkey, this collaborative effort will enable some of the most vulnerable members of our community to safely move forward on their path toward one day having permanent housing,” said Washington County Board Chair Kathryn Harrington. “We are grateful to the Oregon Legislature and Oregon Community Foundation for this funding. We also appreciate our partners at the Urban League, Bienestar and the City of Hillsboro for helping to make this project a reality.”   

In addition to the $6.2 million grant, Project Turnkey-Hillsboro is leveraging operational, capital and service funding from Washington County. “Our community is facing concurrent crises around homelessness, COVID-19 and affordable housing,” said Josh Crites, Assistant Director, Washington County Department of Housing Services. “We also understand that communities of color have been historically overrepresented in our homeless population and disproportionally affected during the pandemic. The ability to partner with Oregon Community Foundation, Bienestar and The Urban League around Project Turnkey-Hillsboro allows our county to bring forth a swift solution for the most pressing issues our communities are facing today.”

“Bienestar’s mission is to build housing, hope and community for the well-being of Latinx, immigrant and all families in need,” said Nathan Teske, Executive Director, Bienestar. “Bienestar is thrilled to partner with Washington County Housing Services to help advance equity as we further fulfill our mission with support services for Project Turnkey-Hillsboro. We’re proud assist some of our most vulnerable community members to become sheltered and receive services to achieve housing stability.”

Some key benefits of Project-Turnkey-Hillsboro include:

• Capacity for more staff to help more people move from crisis to stability.
• Culturally specific services provided by Bienestar and The Urban League of Portland.
• Safe accommodation for up to 60 individuals with some rooms reserved for those impacted by COVID-19.

“Black and Brown communities around the state are experiencing a crisis within a crisis as the effects of systemic racism are magnified in this pandemic,” said Denetta Monk, Director of Housing Programs, Urban League of Portland. “The Urban League is pleased to expand our culturally-specific model of service to support Washington County residents. For this important first step, our team stands ready to mobilize services and take action that leads to solidifying equitable access to safe, stable, and affordable housing.”

Located at 622 SE 10th Ave. in Hillsboro, Oregon, Washington County anticipates use beginning very quickly, with plans to open a block of rooms to the most vulnerable community members. Longer term, Washington County will work with the City of Hillsboro with input from the broader community regarding the best options for affordable, permanent supportive housing.

Since Project Turnkey’s inception, OCF has been working with urgency in collaboration with a diverse statewide advisory committee to execute an equitable review process of all applicants.

“Each community’s needs are unique and the Project Turnkey Advisory Committee continues to center both community and equity in its consideration process, ” said Megan Loeb, OCF Program Officer, Housing. “The Project Turnkey Advisory Committee enthusiastically supported the funding for Washington County because of their holistic approach in partnership with community agencies to provide culturally specific programming.”

OCF has been studying Oregon’s dual crises of homelessness and affordable housing for two years, beginning with research commissioned from ECONorthwest, “Homelessness in Oregon” which provided statewide analysis of the disproportionately large homeless population in Oregon. The first property was announced in Ashland, Oregon, in February 2021 and Project Turnkey has now reached a double-digit milestone — in just three months – with 10 grant awards deployed to date. Project Turnkey is on pace to complete 18-20 projects by the June 2021 deadline set by the Oregon Legislature. For a complete list of awardees, please visit Project Turnkey online.

About Project Turnkey

The Oregon Legislature allocated a total of $65 million for Project Turnkey for the purpose of acquiring motels/hotels for use as non-congregate shelter for people experiencing homelessness or at-risk of homelessness. Two discrete funds were provided by the state: one totaling $30 million to be awarded in counties and tribal communities impacted by the 2020 wildfires; and one totaling $35 million for the remaining 28 counties in the state. Oregon Community Foundation is administering both funds through an application and selection process, with guidance from an Advisory Committee of state, local, and community stakeholders. For more information, please visit Project Turnkey online.

About Washington County Housing Services

The mission of Washington County’s Department of Housing Services is to provide a continuum of affordable housing options that promote community strength. For more information about Project Turnkey-Hillsboro, please visit: www.co.washington.or.us/projectturnkeyhillsboro. For more information about Washington County Housing Services, please visit: https://www.co.washington.or.us/Housing/

About Oregon Community Foundation

Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) puts donated money to work in Oregon – more than $100 million in grants and scholarships annually. Since 1973, OCF grantmaking, research, advocacy and community-advised solutions have helped individuals, families, businesses, and organizations create charitable funds to improve lives for all Oregonians. Impactful giving–time, talent and resources from many generous Oregonians–creates measurable change. For more information about OCF, please visit: oregoncf.org.

###

TO: All Media
Wednesday, April 21, 2021
For Immediate Release

Back Yard Debris Burning will reopen on Saturday, April 24, 2021 for the City of Newport and Newport Rural Fire Protection District

Due to predicted rain and higher relative humidity, backyard debris burning in the City of Newport and Newport Rural Fire Protection District will reopen beginning on Saturday, April 24, 2021.

Residents are required to have a permit to burn yard debris. Permits are available free of charge by calling our Main Fire Station at 541-265-9461.

We thank the public for exercising caution during our recent dry weather. We ask everyone to be fire safe and courteous to your neighbors when burning yard debris. Please call us if you have any questions.

Rob Murphy, Fire Chief
Newport Fire Department
541-265-9461

  TIP OF THE WEEK

Date:  4/22/21                           FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:     Sheriff Curtis Landers

                   541-265-0654

                   s@co.lincoln.or.us">lcsheriff@co.lincoln.or.us

                                                     PLEASE SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS

Pet owners can help solve our community’s pet overpopulation by spaying and neutering their pets.  While there are unplanned puppies in need of homes, in our area, cat overpopulation is more severe.  One unspayed female cat can give birth to 16 cats in one year, her litter will produce more kittens, and this cycle just continues.  Over her lifetime, the cat population can increase by thousands of cats.

Facts about U.S. Animal Shelters from the ASPCA:

• Approximately 7.6 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year. Of those, approximately 3.9 million are dogs and 3.4 million are cats.
• Each year, approximately 2.6 million animals are euthanized (1.2 million dogs and 1.4 million cats).
• Approximately 2.7 million shelter animals are adopted each year (1.4 million dogs and 1.3 million cats).
• About 649,000 animals who enter shelters as strays are returned to their owners. Of those, 549,000 are dogs and only 100,000 are cats.
• Of the dogs entering shelters, approximately 35% are adopted, 31% are euthanized and 26% of dogs who came in as strays are returned to their owner. 
• Of the cats entering shelters, approximately 37% are adopted, 41% are euthanized, and less than 5% of cats who came in as strays are returned to their owners.
• About twice as many animals enter shelters as strays compared to the number that are relinquished by their owners.

Our shelter does not euthanize for time or space and all adoptable animals are rehomed or transferred.  However, due to the demand for space for lost animals and owner surrenders, a waiting list is sometimes required for pets to be accepted by the shelter.  The waitlist can be quite long in the summer due to the dozens of litters of incoming kittens. You can help by having your pets spayed or neutered, identifying your animals with tags and microchips, planning ahead if you need to rehome your animal, and making a plan for your pets in case of your death or long-term illness.

Our local veterinarians generally spay and neuter animals as young as four to six months old.  When you adopt an animal from the Lincoln County Animal Shelter, and most other shelters, the pets will already be altered.  If you are caring for feral or other community cats, please help by having them spayed or neutered.  You can find assistance from the Central Coast Humane Society at 541-265-3719 or at www.oregonspayneuter.org.

Spaying or neutering your pets reduces the risk of life-threatening illnesses and behavioral problems:

• Neutering dogs while they are puppies or young adults will largely prevent prostatic hyperplasia, which is an abnormal increase in the number of cells and possible infection.
• Reduces the risk of your dog being struck by a car.  Neutered dogs won't run after a female in heat.
• Neutering eliminates testicular cancer and decreases the incidence of prostate disease.
• Neutering eliminates the tendency of male cats and dogs to "mark" their property.
• Spaying eliminates the possibility of uterine or ovarian cancer and greatly reduces the incidence of breast cancer.
• Spaying can also prevent mammary gland tumors.

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

On Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at approximately 3:59 P.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a single vehicle crash on Hwy 82 near milepost 48.

Preliminary investigation revealed a Ford pickup, operated by Thomas Stumpf (74) of Netarts, was eastbound when it left the roadway and rolled.

Stumpf sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

OSP was assisted by the Wallowa County Sheriff's Office, Wallowa EMS, and ODOT.

Just after 4:30pm on Wednesday, April 21, firefighters were dispatched to a report of a brush fire on SE HWY 224. First arriving crews reported heavy smoke and active fire conditions with an estimated one acre burning. Firefighters began an initial attack and quickly knocked down the fire and placed a wet line around the fire stopping it from spreading to other nearby trees and underbrush.

There were no homes or structures lost during this fire event. 

Crews will remain on scene through the night to monitor and make sure that all hot spots are out and the fire does not rekindle. Fire investigators are also on scene to determine the cause of the fire.

Please be aware that there will be smoke in the area for the next few days.

Now is a good time to evaluate your home or business to ensure you have a defensible space in place.

Consider following these important tips: 

• Limb trees up at least 30 feet. 
• Remove combustible material, to include stacks of firewood, well away from your home.
• Keep grass trimmed, low, and watered. 
• Keep your gutters clear and free of dried leaves, needles, and debris. 

Clackamas Fire District would also like to remind you that we are currently in a burn ban until further notice.

On Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at approximately 1:10 P.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a vehicle crash on Hwy 20 near milepost 17.

Preliminary investigation revealed a Dodge Journey, operated by Christopher Pritchard (32) of Sweet Home, was eastbound, crossed into the westbound lane, and collided with a Dodge Ram pickup towing a utility trailer operated by Jose Maciel-Gomez (22) of Albany.

Pritchard sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Maciel-Gomez and his passenger, Jose Maciel-Chavez (54) of Albany, were transported to the hospital.

OSP was assisted by the Linn County Sheriff's Office, Lebanon Fire Department and ODOT.

OSP is requesting anyone who witnessed the crash to call the Oregon State Police Northern Command Center at 1-800-442-0776 or OSP and refer to case # SP21-104208

MONMOUTH, Ore. – The Western Oregon University (WOU) Board of Trustees on Wednesday approved a 2.17% increase in resident undergraduate tuition for the 2021-22 academic year, a decision that confirms WOU’s commitment to affordability for Oregon students.

The 2.17% increase is the smallest among all seven public Oregon universities with the exception of Easter Oregon University. The increase will mean an additional $180 for a resident undergraduate taking 45 credits per academic year at WOU’s Monmouth and Salem campuses.

“Western Oregon has routinely had the lowest year-to-year tuition increases during my time here, which demonstrates our commitment to accessibility to higher education for Oregon students,” said President Rex Fuller. “The past year has been very turbulent for our students and their families because of the pandemic. Keeping our tuition low remains important as we come back together again in the fall.”

Non-resident undergrads will see a 2.99% increase, and graduate students will have a new tuition model, one that charges a single rate regardless of residency or course modality.

Also at the meeting, trustees approved its Board Statement on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility, a project the group has been working on since 2019 and that constitutes the highest policy authority for the university. The statement outlines expectations and priorities for the university’s climate, recruitment and retention of employees and students, curriculum, community partnerships, business practices, and more.

Trustees also:

• Approved the following academic programs: Elementary Certificate in Spanish, Intermediate Certificate in Spanish, Elementary Certificate in French, Intermediate Certificate in French, Elementary Certificate in German, Intermediate Certificate in German, Certificate in Public and Non-profit Management, and a STEM Educational Leadership Graduate Certificate.
• Heard a student presentation about resources for people of color at WOU, which led to an additional board meeting being scheduled before the regular June meeting.
• Received reports from Academic Affairs regarding retention, graduation and the ACE Learner Success Lab program (WOU is one of 10 nationwide participants).
• Held an executive session to discuss the interim president search process.

The full board docket, including details about each of the approved action items, is available at wou.edu/board.

# # #

About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, founded in 1856 in Monmouth, is the state’s oldest public university. Serving about 5,000 students, WOU is a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution with about 70% of the student population being from Oregon. A significant portion of attendees are members of under-represented groups, veterans or non-traditional students. WOU is Oregon’s campus of choice for those seeking a transformative education in a supportive, student-centered learning community where classes are taught by faculty. Together we succeed.

The Oregon Office of Emergency Management has posted the Oregon Wildfire Recovery Update for April 21, 2021, to the Oregon Wildfire Resources page. See today's Wildfire Recovery update here.

Photo Captions:

Jackson County, Ore. - April 19, 2021 - Senator Ron Wyden toured the Totem Pole Mobile Home Park, a future short-term housing site for wildfire survivors, with Jackson County, FEMA, Debris Management Task Force/Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) leadership to see the progress being made and learn how debris removal work is supporting the rebuilding of local communities. (Photo by Oregon Department of Transportation)
File: DSC00356

Oregon Office of Emergency Management Wildfire Recovery Logo: Oregon Rising - Stronger Together.
File: OEM RISING LOGO JPG

March 6, 2021 - FEMA trailers are lined up and ready to be shipped to housing locations in wildfire affected areas. Trailers like these will allow survivors to stay in their communities and provide stability for families. (FEMA Photo by Jeremy Hollen)
File: FEMA trailer

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in a Virtual Board Business Meeting on Monday, April 26, 2021 online virtually with Zoom at the hour of 6:30 pm. 

The agenda is posted on our website at: https://www.parkrose.k12.or.us/index.php?id=275. 

Please click this URL to join: https://zoom.us/j/94961285856 or join by phone: 1-253-215-8782  Webinar ID: 949-6128-5856

If you wish to submit a public comment during this Board Meeting please fill out this electronic public comment form before "Reading of Public Comments" on the agenda: https://forms.gle/5sUjRZjxJikqmqVg9

For those of you who cannot participate virtually we will post a recording of the meeting on our website at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXajhxrPxMclOQ6J00JUszQ.

Questions welcomed, please email: questions@parkrose.k12.or.us or leave a voice message at 503-408-2100.

HILLSBORO, Ore.- On April 15, 2021, a Washington County jury found Jesus Gongora Dominguez, age 20, guilty of six counts of first-degree sodomy. Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman prosecuted the case before Judge Oscar Garcia.

In December of 2019, the victim disclosed to a mandatory reporter that he was sexually abused by the defendant four years prior. Hillsboro police were notified and arranged an interview with the victim and his family.

The victim reported that the defendant had sexually abused him multiple times. He told investigators that the defendant would lure him into his bedroom with the promise of candy or video games and would then sexually abuse him. He ordered the victim not to tell anyone about the abuse.

Despite years of concealing the abuse, the victim found the courage to come forward and reveal the acts the defendant committed. 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office wishes to commend the victim in this case for his bravery in reporting this abuse. This office also thanks the Hillsboro Police Department and CARES Northwest for their work on this difficult case.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 7, 2021. The defendant will remain in custody until that time.

April 21, 2021

Contact: OHA External Relations, covid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us" target="_blank">orcovid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon reports 989 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 6 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are six new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 2,466, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 989 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 177,134.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 39,882 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 26,407 doses were administered on April 20 and 13,475 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on April 20.

The 7-day running average is now 33,933 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered a total of 1,369,371 doses of Pfizer, 1,153,611 doses of Moderna and 90,301 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines. As of today, 1,065,266 people have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series. There are 1,635,625 who have had at least one dose.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

To date,1,683,045 doses of Pfizer,1,411,700 doses of Moderna and 215,500 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 272, which is 17 more than yesterday. There are 65 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is seven more than yesterday.

The total number of patients in hospital beds may fluctuate between report times. The numbers do not reflect admissions per day, nor the length of hospital stay. Staffing limitations are not captured in this data and may further limit bed capacity.

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Weekly COVID-19 reports

The Oregon Health Authority’s COVID-19 Weekly Report, released today, shows a fourth consecutive week of surging daily cases and higher hospitalizations than the previous week.

OHA reported 4,742 new daily cases of COVID-19 during the week of Monday, April 12 through Sunday, April 18. That represents a 27% increase from the previous week and marks the fourth consecutive week in which daily cases have increased by at least 20%.

New COVID-19 related hospitalizations rose to 171, up from 156 last week.

There were 19 reported COVID-19 related deaths.

There were 113,817 tests for COVID-19 for the week of April 11 through April 17. The percentage of positive tests was 5.3%.

People 70 years of age and older have accounted for 40% of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and 76% of COVID-19 related deaths.

Today’s COVID-19 Weekly Outbreak Report shows 24 active COVID-19 outbreaks in senior living communities and congregate living settings, with three or more confirmed cases and one or more COVID-19 related deaths.

Cases and deaths

Note: Reported case counts and electronic laboratory report (ELR) totals were lower than expected yesterday due to unexpected downtime of Opera, Oregon’s COVID-19 case database, which occurred during business hours. ELRs that were delayed from the downtime were processed yesterday and contribute to today’s high case count.

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (6), Benton (24), Clackamas (61), Clatsop (7), Columbia (7), Coos (2), Crook (4), Curry (5), Deschutes (99), Douglas (7), Grant (10), Harney (2),  Hood River (5), Jackson (93), Jefferson (3), Josephine (23), Klamath (34), Lake (3), Lane (82), Linn (33), Malheur (3), Marion (114), Morrow (3), Multnomah (167), Polk (20), Tillamook (5), Umatilla (16), Wallowa (1), Wasco (3), Washington (134) and Yamhill (13).

Oregon’s 2,461st COVID-19 death is an 82-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on April 16 and died on April 13 at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,462nd COVID-19 death is a 90-year-old man from Benton County who tested positive on April 16 and died on April 19 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,463rd COVID-19 death is a 67-year-old man from Jackson County who tested positive on March 29 and died on April 18 at Asante Ashland Community Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,464th COVID-19 death is a 42-year-old man from Jackson County who tested positive on March 25 and died on April 18 at Asante Rogue Valley Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,465th COVID-19 death is a 48-year-old man from Multnomah County who tested positive on March 28 and died on April 16 at Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center. He had no underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,466th COVID-19 death is a 56-year-old man from Multnomah County who tested positive on April 1 and died on April 16 at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations? 

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine situation in Oregon, visit our webpage (English?or?Spanish), which has a breakdown of distribution and other information.

April 21, 2021

DA Mike Schmidt files charges following April 20, 2021 downtown unlawful assembly

PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt filed criminal charges against Kenneth Harold and Randy Gray for alleged criminal conduct that occurred during an unlawful assembly on Tuesday April 20, 2021 in downtown.

State v. Kenneth Harold (C# 21CR19106)

Harold is charged with one count of criminal mischief in the first degree, one count of felony riot and one count of unlawful possession of a graffiti implement.

Harold is accused damaging windows at the Starbucks store located in the 400 block of Southwest Morrison Street. Next to the windows Harold is accused of damaging police observed fresh graffiti written in black paint. When arrested, law enforcement found Harold in possession of a glass breaking device commonly called a “window punch” and black spray paint.

The windows Harold is accused of damaging will cost more than $1,000 to repair, according to court documents.

State of Oregon v. Randy Gray (C# 21CR19107)

Gray is charged with one count of assaulting a public safety officer, one count of resisting arrest and one count of disorderly conduct in the second degree after allegedly punching a Portland Police Bureau (PPB) sergeant in the mouth.

It is alleged that as a result of the punch, the sergeant reported tooth pain, a bloody nose and cut and swollen lips.

According to court documents, Gray admitted to being downtown with friends and confirmed hearing police give a dispersal order.

Video of this assault, posted on social media, shows a group of people surrounding the sergeant who was walking his bike on the sidewalk after previously contacting someone who stepped in front of the sergeant’s bike, according to court documents.

The video clearly captures police identifying themselves and providing dispersal orders after declaring an unlawful assembly. The video also shows uniformed officers in the vicinity.

Gray is captured on video rearing back and punching the sergeant in the face, according to court documents.

The video shows the sergeant’s head snapping back. As a result of the punch, the sergeant falls to the ground as the police bicycle rolls into a TriMet structure. Video shows Gray on top of the sergeant as multiple nearby officers rushed to help the sergeant and to take Gray into custody. During the struggle to arrest Gray, pepper spray was deployed.

No additional information can be released by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office at this time.

A charging document is only an accusation of a crime. Harold and Gray are innocent unless and until proven guilty.

#MCDA#

Media Contact:

Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Email: rent.Weisberg@mcda.us">Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

Consultant will present a proforma analysis of different housing types

Vancouver, Wash. – The Housing Options Study and Action Plan project’s purpose is to identify housing challenges within the unincorporated Vancouver Urban Growth Area and opportunities to encourage development of housing that is affordable to a variety of household incomes through the removal of regulatory barriers and/or implementation of other strategies.

The group’s fourth meeting is scheduled for 3 p.m. Tuesday, April 27 via Zoom. The meeting is open to the public and will be recorded.

For information on how to join and participate in the meeting, please visit https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/housing-project-advisory-group.

At the meeting, the consultant team will present a development feasibility analysis of different housing types to assist the advisory group on the decision-making processes of private sector developers.

The advisory group will also begin discussing potential goals for the project that will provide a framework for developing recommendations.

The Clark County Council and County Manager have appointed a volunteer PAG to provide input throughout the Housing Options Study and Action Plan project. The group represents a broad spectrum of interests including those most vulnerable to rising housing costs and displacement, people working in the housing industry, and parties responsible for housing-related regulations.

The group will utilize a consensus-based approach to creatively and collaboratively problem-solve issues regarding barriers in providing additional housing types in the unincorporated Vancouver Urban Growth Area. The group also will develop recommendations that will become part of the Housing Options Study and Action Plan. The recommendations will be reviewed and considered by the public, the Clark County Planning Commission and county council.

Learn more about the project at www.clark.wa.gov/housingoptions.

Battle Ground, Wash. -  Installation of a new mid-block pedestrian crossing on East Main Street in Battle Ground’s Old Town district is complete and the crosswalk is open for use. Located between Clark and 4th Avenues, the crossing serves one of the most pedestrian-active sections of the street.   

The crossing includes a signal – a flashing light referred to as a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon -  that is activated by pedestrians preparing to cross the street.  Its bright yellow flashing light serves as a warning to motorists to stop for pedestrians. 

“State traffic laws are clear that any vehicle approaching this crosswalk from either direction must stop when someone is in the crosswalk”, said Battle Ground Police Traffic Officer Julia MacPhee, referring to RCW 46.61.261, “and vehicles must remain stopped until the person has made it safely across the roadway and out of the crosswalk.” 

Officer MacPhee explains that pedestrian and other use of the crosswalk is also defined in state law, “No pedestrian, bicyclist, or other crosswalk user is to suddenly leave the curb and move into the path of a vehicle when it is impossible or unreasonable for that vehicle to stop.

“The new signaled crosswalk will make pedestrians and others crossing the roadway more visible to oncoming traffic, providing a safer solution for everyone using the roadway.  Battle Ground Police Officers regularly patrol the area and may enforce violations of crosswalk laws through education and issuance of infraction when deemed necessary.”

Grant funding, in the amount of $50,000 from the Transportation Improvement Board Complete Streets program, covered 95% of the total project cost of $53,000.     

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE:     Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Salem, Ore. — On Friday, April 16, 2021, at approximately 8:30 p.m. Salem Fire and Police personnel were dispatched to a call of an injured pedestrian in the 4500 block of Commercial ST SE near the WinCo store.

When responders arrived, they located Galina Dvorskaya, age 61 of Salem, in the middle of the street with life-threatening injuries apparently from being struck by a vehicle. The involved driver of vehicle or vehicles were not at the scene of the collision.

Dvorskaya was transported to Salem Health where a few days later she eventually died from her injuries. An autopsy confirmed the injuries where consistent with being struck by a vehicle.

The Salem Police Traffic Team is conducting the follow-up investigation and asks for the public’s help in identifying the involved driver and vehicle. If you have any information regarding this incident, please call the Traffic Team at 503-588-6293.

# # #

On Wednesday, April 21, 2021, at approximately 2:15 a.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a shooting at an apartment complex located in the 4300 block of SW Mueller Drive near the City of Beaverton. Deputies located a man who had been shot in the arm following an argument with another man suspected of trying to steal his car.

The suspect had fired multiple shots before leaving the location. No other residents were hurt. The victim was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. After searching the area for about an hour, deputies, with the help of the Beaverton Police Department, located a suspect matching the description given by witnesses.

Deputies arrested 21-year-old Jontay Joseph Cox of Richland, Washington on the following charges:

• Attempted murder in the second degree
• Assault in the first degree
• Unlawful use of a weapon
• Felon in possession of a weapon
• Unlawful entry into a motor vehicle

Mr. Cox was lodged at the Washington County Jail with a bail of $25,000.

If you have any information about this case, please contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at 503-846-2700.

Case #50-21-5590

OREGON VIRTUAL ACADEMY

NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

April 27, 2021 @ 6:30 p.m.

Oregon Virtual Academy Board Members are hereby notified that a Regular Meeting of the Board will be held via teleconference 1-720-707-2699 Ext. 526309737# and via Zoom at

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5033141592

_____________________________________________________________________________

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has issued $26.9 million in payments from Fiscal Year 2020 to 18 counties in western Oregon under the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS Act). Most of the funding will go directly to the counties, supporting investments in education, infrastructure, public safety, and health services.

“We have a multiple-use and sustained yield mission,” said Oregon/Washington State Director Barry Bushue. “We are committed to managing these lands to support the local economy and family-supporting jobs for our neighbors, while also conserving and restoring our shared public lands.”

The BLM is charged with managing 2.4 million acres of Oregon and California Railroad Revested Lands, known as the O&C Lands, in 18 western Oregon counties for sustainable timber harvest. The revenue from harvests is shared with those 18 counties. The SRS Act payments are made in lieu of timber harvest receipts based on a formula set by Congress.

The O&C lands are some of the most productive timberlands in the world. They also contain a diversity of plant and animal species, recreation areas, mining claims, grazing lands, cultural and historical resources, scenic areas, wild and scenic rivers, and wilderness.

“Of the payments announced today, roughly $2.3 million will be made available under Title II of the Act,” said Bushue. “These funds are used to support cooperative projects, under the guidance of the Western Oregon Resource Advisory Committee, to restore healthy conditions on public lands or on private lands for the benefit of public land resources.”

Cooperative projects funded by the SRS Act include wildfire hazard reduction, stream and watershed restoration, forest road maintenance, road decommissioning or obliteration, control of noxious weeds, improvement of fish and wildlife habitat, and opportunities for youth training and employment.

Additional information about the Western Oregon Resource Advisory Committee is available at: www.blm.gov/get-involved/resource-advisory-council/near-you/oregon-washington/western-oregon-rac

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The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The agency’s mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. Diverse activities authorized on these lands generated $111 billion in economic output across the country in fiscal year 2019—more than any other agency in the Department of the Interior. These activities supported more than 498,000 jobs.

VPS plans to offer students more in-person learning days beginning May 3, with the goal of serving the maximum number of students within space constraints and safety guidelines. The VPS school board reviewed these plans at its April 20 workshop. Schools will share additional details with families.

Preschool

Starting May 3:

• Early Childhood Special Education and Inclusion Preschool students will attend school in person on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursday and Fridays. 
• Students in the preschool at King Elementary will continue in-person instruction on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. 

Preschool start and end times will remain the same.

Kindergarten through Grade 3

Starting May 3:

• Students will attend school in person on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
• Wednesdays will remain a remote learning day for all students. 
• In-person days will continue on the current schedule.

Grades 4-6 and 9

Starting May 10: 

• Students will attend school in person on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
• Wednesdays will remain a remote learning day for all students. 
• In-person days will continue on the current schedules.

Grades 7-8 and 10-12

• Most students in these grades will remain in the current hybrid model of two in-person days per week. 
• Some students in these grades are being identified for increased in-person support. Families of these students will be contacted to begin additional in-person learning days. 

Opting into or out of hybrid learning

Families who want to switch from full remote learning to hybrid learning or vice versa should contact their school’s principal. Schools may be able to accommodate changes if space is available.

Maintaining safety

The expansion of in-person learning follows new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Gov. Inlsee permitting reduced physical distance of 3 feet between students in classrooms. Schools must still maintain 6 feet of distance as much as possible in other areas and situations, as well as among adults and adults and students.

PR 05-21                                                                    

BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, April 21, 2021
CONTACT: Maryam Habibi, 503-230-4413 or 503-230-5131

BPA selects Suzanne Cooper as senior vice president of Power Services

Portland, Oregon – The Bonneville Power Administration has selected Suzanne Cooper to be its senior vice president of Power Services. Cooper has served as BPA’s vice president of Bulk Marketing within its Power business line since 2011. Cooper begins her new position April 25.
Cooper will replace Joel Cook, who is taking on a new role as BPA’s chief operating officer.

“Suzanne has been a pillar of our power management team for 17 years,” said BPA Administrator and CEO John Hairston. “Her creativity, market expertise and leadership will help us adeptly navigate the evolving energy landscape.”

As senior vice president of Power Services, Cooper will be responsible for BPA’s power scheduling functions, energy efficiency, generation asset management, power contracts and rates, power purchases and acquisitions, as well as business relationships with 142 retail utility customers. BPA sells about 30% of the electricity consumed in the Northwest. Annually, BPA’s Power Services markets about 11,000 average megawatts of wholesale power from 31 federal hydroelectric projects in the Columbia River Basin, one nonfederal nuclear plant and several other small nonfederal power plants. Power Services produces $3 billion in annual revenues and has an annual capital budget of over $200 million.

“I’m honored to lead the Power Services organization at this dynamic time in the energy industry and look forward to engaging with the Power team as we position BPA to continue to serve as the long-term provider of choice for our customers,” said Cooper. “We are stewards of an incredible natural resource. Working closely with BPA's utility customers, federal, state and local partners, tribal leaders and stakeholders, we will ensure the federal power system continues to meet a diverse set of regional needs.” 

Cooper has been the vice president of Bulk Marketing at BPA since 2011, overseeing the agency’s power trading floor, scheduling, pricing, market analysis, long-term surplus sales and purchases, and associated contract support and transaction settlements functions. 

A life-long Oregonian, Cooper holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Lewis and Clark College in Portland. 

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 261 substations, and provides transmission service to more than 300 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

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PR 04-21 

BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, April 21, 2021

CONTACT: Maryam Habibi, 503-230-4413 or 503-230-5131

BPA names Joel Cook new chief operating officer

Portland, Oregon – The Bonneville Power Administration has chosen Joel Cook to be its new chief operating officer. Cook has served as BPA’s senior vice president of Power Services since June 2017. Cook begins his new position April 25.  

“As the head of Power Services, Joel has been on the front lines of our cost-control efforts,” said Administrator and CEO John Hairston. “His leadership and experience will serve the agency and our utility customers well as we explore new energy markets and look for opportunities to maximize the value of the federal power and transmission systems.”

As COO, Cook will be responsible for the agency’s Power and Transmission services, as well as its Environment, Fish and Wildlife and Customer Support Services organizations. He will also oversee the Business Transformation Office and play a critical role in BPA’s sustained focus on disciplined cost-containment, grid modernization and customer responsiveness. Cook’s focus as COO will be on enhancing BPA’s competitiveness as the agency approaches negotiations for new long-term wholesale power contracts with its 142 Northwest electric utility customers.

“I am very excited to take on this role,” Cook said. “I look forward to building on the continuous improvement of our business operations and working closely with customers, employees and stakeholders in providing safe, reliable and cost-effective service.”

As the senior vice president of Power Services, Cook was responsible for the acquisition and sales of wholesale and bulk power; generation asset management of the federal hydropower system and one nonfederal nuclear plant; energy efficiency; and management of wholesale power contracts and rates.

Suzanne Cooper has been named BPA’s new senior vice president of Power Services and will step into the role as Cook becomes COO. Cooper has been a member of BPA’s Power Services management team for 17 years.

Cook came to BPA from Talen Energy in Allentown, Pennsylvania, one of the largest independent power producers in the U.S. Prior to that, he worked in various roles for PPL, a large electric and gas utility based in the Northeast. Cook began his career with the Montana Power Company and has spent his entire career in the energy and electric utility industry. Cook has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Montana and a Bachelor of Science in petroleum engineering from the Montana College of Mineral Science and Technology.

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 261 substations, and provides transmission service to more than 300 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

###

PORTLAND, Ore.—Every April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) to honor crime victims, promote their rights and recognize victim advocates. This year’s observance, the 40th annual commemoration, takes place April 18-24, 2021 with the theme: Support Victims | Build Trust | Engage Communities.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office joins its federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners in taking this opportunity to highlight the importance of providing necessary services at the earliest possible stage of victimization and litigation. Early intervention helps prevent further victimization and encourages victim involvement in the criminal justice system, mitigating the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.

“Protecting victims’ rights in all phases of the federal judicial process is a top priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office. National Crime Victims’ Rights Week affords us the opportunity to reaffirm our ongoing commitment to crime victims,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug. “The courage victims show every day in courtrooms across the country motivates all of us in law enforcement to continue vigorously advocating on their behalf.”

During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local, and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings and online public awareness campaigns.

OVC and the U.S. Attorney’s Office encourages widespread participation in the week’s virtual events and in other victim-related observances throughout the year. For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov. For ongoing updates from OVC and ideas throughout the year on how you can support victims, please subscribe to OVC’s email notifications at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/subscribe/.

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you believe you’ve been the target or victim of a crime, please contact your local law enforcement agency or your nearest FBI field office immediately. The FBI Portland Field Office can be reached at (503) 224-4181 or by submitting tips online at tips.fbi.gov.

# # #

Vancouver, Wash. –On April 17, 2021, at approximately 4:32 a.m., Vancouver Police responded to the 700 block of Waterfront Way for the report of a shooting. Justyn Vallandingham, 35 years of age, was delivering newspapers in the area and left his vehicle unlocked and running while he went to make a delivery, when he returned to his vehicle he saw an unknown male, identified as Kin Bossy, 29 years of age, sitting in the driver’s seat of his vehicle. Vallandingham pulled his concealed firearm and pointed it at Bossy, who then turned and leaned towards the center console of the vehicle. Vallandingham was in fear that Bossy was trying to acquire a weapon and he discharged his firearm. Vallandingham made contact with 9-1-1 shortly thereafter to report the incident. Bossy did not survive his injuries.

A search warrant for Vallandingham’s vehicle has been completed and signed and search of the vehicle by investigators is anticipated to occur this week. Upon completion of the investigation, the Vancouver Police Department Major Crimes Unit will forward the case to the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review of possible charges. There have been no arrests.

Nothing further is releasable at this time.

###

The following information is in response to a media request for information regarding a recent death investigation by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Date of death: 04/17/2021

Location: Vancouver, WA

Decedent Name: Bossy, Kin K.    

Decedent Age:  29 Yrs               

Resident of:  Vancouver, WA

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death: Gunshot Wound of the Chest

Manner of death: Homicide

How injury occurred: Decedent shot by other person(s).

Reports and records of autopsies or postmortems shall be confidential as per RCW 68.50.105. No additional information is available for release from the Medical Examiner’s Office. Refer all other inquiries to the Vancouver Police Department.

Nikki J. Costa

Operations Manager

At the April 19, 2021 City of Sheridan Council meeting, the council took no action to approve the prospective petition for the Formation of Fire District 22 currently being circulated.  This provides a roadblock in the current Sheridan/SW Polk Fire District consolidation efforts. This non-action will stop the petition from moving forward to the County Commissioners level. The City of Sheridan, City Council, did not give permission for the prospective petition to proceed to the voters. 

Items of concern to the City Council were increasing taxes, not enough citizen involvement in the process and limited understanding of the petition process. The City Council also cited the proposed increased staffing in the Salt Creek Community Fire Station would not help the citizens of Sheridan, though during the Sheridan house fire on Tuesday, their citizenswaited for service from Grand Ronde, McMinnville, Amity and even Dallas. ?

Since the council meeting, the question being asked many times– What’s next?

That is a very good question. It is a fact that our three Districts cannot continue being consistently in “service overload”. The Districts constant increasing demand for service continues to result in a declining level of service. Extended response times requiring fire and emergency medical incident victims to wait for service.  This is becoming more of the norm than the exception.

Tuesday, April 20, 2021, Sheridan Fire District responded toanother house fire in the City of Sheridan; our career staff were on a previously dispatched medical call, only one volunteer responded on the first engine out of Sheridan, the West Valley engine and truck were the next to arrive with the requiredpersonnel and we did not have our OSHA required "two-in and two-out" requirement to enter a burning building for 18 minutes. Unlike the last house fire, which had two fatalities, luckily this time no one was in the house. Amity and McMinnville also came to assist, and the McMinnville ambulance transported the victim with smoke inhalation because Sheridan did not have an ambulance available. During the same timeframe as this fire incident, our SW Polk crew and a Dallas Fire & EMS crew handled two additional medical emergencies within Sheridan Fire District.

The Boards and Fire Chief all recognized that this attempted consolidation had a compressed timeline but felt the efforts would be achievable. With the compressed timeline we were not able to educate, inform, and/or build consensus within our communities. The COVID pandemic and last summer’s large wildland fire season also limited our abilities to work with our communities. 

The Districts will keep you informed as the Boards of the existing districts define the next steps. 

Thanks again for your support and all you do!

With the conviction on all 3 counts of the murder of George Floyd, SWWA LULAC recognizes the great work it took and incredible fearlessness of those present at the horrific murder - especially Darnella Frazier, the young woman who had the courage to video the entirety of the event.

Although this is a victory in this case, we recognize that this cannot become a "TOKEN" from the judicial and policing community.  Real change must continue and an overall dismantling of the institutional racism so inherent in the systems built to protect the anglo must occur.  We pray with the family of Mr. Floyd, and all those who die daily at the hands of those tasked to protect the dignity of human life.   From our southern border to the factories and processing plants of the PNW, the essential workers continue to lose life after life and our Brown, Black and Indigenous Northern and Meso Americans continue the fight for the dignity of life.

May the spirits of all those to whom fell for us to live allow us to continue to stand with strength and conviction on their shoulders.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Board of Health is seeking applicants for three positions on the volunteer Public Health Advisory Council.

The board is accepting applications from Clark County residents for the following positions:

• A Clark County consumer of public health services.
• A representative from a Clark County social/human services agency.
• A representative from the Clark County Youth Commission or Clark County Youth House or a representative of local area high schools or colleges.

The three-year terms begin as soon as the positions are filled and end Sept. 30, 2024.

The advisory council meets 5:30-7:30 pm on the second Tuesday of every even month via Zoom. When in-person meetings resume, they will be 6-8 pm in the main conference room on the second floor of the Center for Community Health, 1601 E Fourth Plain Blvd.

The Public Health Advisory Council makes recommendations to the county councilors in their capacity as the Board of Health. The advisory council identifies needs and suggests ways to enhance community health. Among the council's top priorities are addressing adverse childhood experiences, community health improvement planning and support for healthy children.

Clark County Public Health protects the community’s health by preventing disease, responding to health threats and reducing health disparities. The department promotes healthy communities and environments, health equity, and disease and injury prevention. With community partners, Public Health works to promote healthier choices; ensure the safety of food and water; reduce environmental waste and contamination; and protect people from disease outbreaks through monitoring, early detection and swift response.

Those interested in an appointment to the advisory council should submit a brief letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver 98666-5000.
Applications can also be emailed to michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.

Vancouver, Washington— Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle has issued the following statement in response to today's verdict in the George Floyd murder trial:

"While today's verdict in the George Floyd murder trial brought legal justice to his family, bringing social justice to the Black communities across our nation will require continued acknowledgement of systemic racism, further work in policing reforms and establishing equity in our schools, workplaces and communities.

The verdict may signal that our nation has turned a corner, but it is only a symbolic one. True change can only come with sustained efforts to transform our communities as safe places for all residents of all races. The City of Vancouver stands in support of our Black community members and BIPOC communities across the nation. Our roadmap is clear, and it is focused on equity, inclusion, safety and prosperity for all."

###

At tonight’s monthly Evergreen Public Schools Board meeting, Board members authorized the replacement of a seventh elementary - Mill Plain - and proposed enhancements and expansion to the district's music and college and career technical (CCTE) programs as well as transportation infrastructure. The anticipated budget is projected to become available as part of the voter-approved 2018 Bond measure and is due to project cost-savings, acceleration of timelines, and competitive bidding on projects already completed and currently underway.

In 2018, Evergreen Public Schools voters passed a $695 million Bond measure intended to build, rebuild and substantially enhance ten schools and district facilities, plus provide capital improvements in nearly every other of the 27 school facilities. Now, as the final contracts are being awarded on the items outlined in the Bond package, the district appears to have saved enough in construction costs, and contained expected cost escalations, to expand the initial project list. In addition, historically low rates, competitive bidding in a COVID-restricted construction environment and the use of prototype elementary design, is allowing the district to add several more projects.

Mill Plain Elementary, originally built in 1952, and although upgraded with modern amenities over the years, is still the district’s oldest operating school building. With the prototype design already in use on six recently completed and/or under construction elementary schools, Mill Plain can be rebuilt on the same parcel of land located just north of Mill Plain Boulevard and NE 164th Avenue. As funds become available, construction could begin in 2022, with the new school ready for occupancy in September 2023.

Also, as potential savings continue to be realized on other projects currently underway, the district will use those funds to modernize and add space for College, Career and Technical Education (CCTE) classes at Evergreen High School, enhance music programs at Evergreen and Union High School, and upgrade the district’s overcrowded and outdated transportation facility.

“When we made the initial projections for the 2018 Bond measure, construction costs were rising rapidly, and there were fewer construction companies actively bidding on school projects. COVID-19 economic impacts allowed for greater competition for construction contractors and much lower cost escalation. For example, our last elementary school bid, Burton Elementary, was the lowest cost bid of our six constructed elementary schools. Coupled with our prototype approach-using the same basic design and floor plans for the six elementary schools in the Bond - we have been able to build smarter, faster and with substantial cost-savings,” said Superintendent Mike Merlino.

Even with the addition of the new projects, taxpayers will not see an increase in property taxes over what was voted on in 2018. “We will not collect additional property taxes to fund these new projects. Instead, we are adding these new projects at no additional cost, by using the cost savings realized to-date on the earlier projects,” said School Board President Victoria Bradford.

The 2018 Bond measure has already funded the following completed, and under construction, schools: 

• Emerald, Image and Sifton elementary schools-completed/opened Fall 2020

• Ellsworth and Marrion elementary schools, Legacy High School, Hollingsworth (formerly 49th St) Academy, Transition Program and the Administrative Services Center-scheduled to open Summer/Fall 2021

• Wy’east Middle School, Mountain View High School and Heritage High School addition/remodel -scheduled to open Fall 2022

• Burton Elementary School - scheduled to open Fall 2023

As the proposed projects are added to the Bond project list, the school communities will be given more specific dates and scope of work, and updates will be added to the district’s web site: www.evergreenps.org/envision.

Sheridan, OR – Nine residents and multiple pets escaped a two-alarm house fire Monday morning in Sheridan. 

Firefighters responded to the two-story home in the 900 block of East Main Street just before 11:30 a.m. after receiving 911 calls, according to Sheridan, SW Polk and West Valley Fire Districts. 

Due to our staff handling a separate medical incident, the first firefighter on scene was about 10 minutes after dispatch. Firefighters called for a second-alarm, with the assistance of the next two arriving crews, from West Valley Fire District, our staff was able to confirm occupants and pets escaped the home before fighting the flames. 

Crews were able to contain the fire with minimal extension into the attic. McMinnville Ambulance transported the occupant with smoke inhalation to Willamette Valley Medical Center. Amity Fire District and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde also assisted with this incident.

During the same timeframe as this fire incident, our SW Polk crew and a Dallas Fire & EMS crew handled two additional medical emergencies within Sheridan Fire District.

Vancouver, Wash. –This afternoon, the jury in the trial against ex-police officer Derek Chauvin found him guilty on all charges related to the death of George Floyd. As the jury concluded, the actions that occurred during this incident were clearly outside the law, and absolutely did not reflect in any way the oath police officers take to serve and protect their communities.

As the Chief of Police, I want to assure you the Vancouver Police Department remains steadfast in our duty to honorably serve the citizens of Vancouver with compassion, fairness, equity, dignity, professionalism, and accountability.

Specifically, over the past 10 months, we have been working with the Vancouver Community Task Force on Policing to implement changes in our use-of-force policies, practices, training, and data collection, with the goal to better serve the public safety needs of our community in a way that proactively ensures just and equitable  policing in our city, particularly for communities who have historically been marginalized. As the Chief of Police, I am committed to improving equity, accountability, transparency, and increasing public trust and confidence between the Vancouver Police Department and the community members we serve.

The death of George Floyd, at the hands of a police officer, highlighted the reason why marginalized communities callout the historical racial inequities so many in our nation have faced and sparked emotions that have been long suppressed. In Vancouver, and across the nation, people have been coming together to have their voices heard. The Vancouver Police Department fully supports people lawfully expressing their First Amendment rights but do not condone violence or criminal activity as part of any of these gatherings. Criminal activities and violence only further fracture relationships in our community at a time when healing is needed.

Only through communities peacefully coming together, and working together, can we achieve the change and solutions that will bring about a future we all desire.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug announced today that a North Bend, Oregon, man has been charged with sexually exploiting a minor female victim.

On April 15, 2021, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a three-count indictment charging Shannon Stacey Weatherbee, 47, with sexual exploitation of children.

According to the indictment, beginning around July 2017, Weatherbee is alleged to have knowingly coerced a minor female to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. These visual depictions were transmitted online.

On April 16, 2021, investigators arrested Weatherbee while executing a search warrant on his North Bend residence.

Weatherbee made his initial appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending a jury trial scheduled to begin on June 22, 2021.

This case is being investigated by the FBI with assistance from the North Bend Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Jeffrey S. Sweet, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Anyone who has information about possible crimes committed by Weatherbee, or the physical or online exploitation of any children, are encouraged to call the FBI at (503) 224-4181 or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

If a child discloses an incident that did happen to him or her, or that they observed happen to someone else, the parent should not ask the child detailed questions about the incident. Instead, please contact your local law enforcement agency or the FBI immediately.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

# # #

April 20, 2021

Contact:OHA External Relations, phd.communications@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon Psilocybin Advisory Board – Research Subcommittee meets April 29

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Psilocybin Advisory Board, Research Subcommittee.

Agenda: TBD

When: Thursday, April 29, 1-2 p.m. No public comment period available.

Where: Via Zoom Meeting: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/16018821728

Meeting ID: 160 1882 1728

Background: Established by Ballot Measure 109 (2020), the Oregon Psilocybin Advisory Board makes recommendations to OHA on available scientific studies and research on the safety and efficacy of psilocybin in treating mental health conditions, and makes recommendations on the requirements, specifications and guidelines for providing psilocybin services in Oregon.

The Board will also develop a long-term strategic plan for ensuring that psilocybin services will become and remain a safe, accessible and affordable therapeutic option for all persons 21 years of age and older in this state for whom psilocybin may be appropriate; and monitor and study federal laws, regulations and policies regarding psilocybin.

# # #

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.
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact Nic Riley at 971-673-0404, 711 TTY, or iley@dhsoha.state.gov">nic.riley@dhsoha.state.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

You are subscribed to Oregon Health Authority News Releases. View all OHA news releases.

Tuesday, April 20, 2021-Woodland, WA-Woodland Public Schools announces that Woodland Middle School students will return to school full-time (five days a week) and Woodland High School students will return to school four days a week beginning Tuesday, April 27. Elementary schools will continue their current schedule of full-time in-person learning five days a week.

This newest transition in schedules comes following smooth transitions from remote learning to hybrid-learning schedules at the secondary schools. “We want to welcome our secondary students back to school on an expanded in-person learning schedule as we know how important live, in-person teaching is to student learning,” said Superintendent Michael Green. “We have been tracking local COVID-19 case rates closely for months, and even though case rates are higher in Cowlitz County as a whole, our part of the county has comparatively low case rates.”

With low local case rates, the district believes schools can hold more in-person learning safely. “Student health and safety remains the top priority for the school district,” said Green. “In order to keep our schools open, we ask our students and our community to keep up Covid-19 prevention techniques including wearing masks, maintaining physical distancing, and practicing good hygiene.”

In order to prepare for more expanded learning, Scott Landrigan, the district’s Director of Facilities and Safety, uses Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) software to develop seating plans for each classroom in every school building in the district. “In order for in-person learning to work while also preventing the spread of Covid-19, we must ensure we closely adhere to the health guidelines provided by the Washington State Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the National Institute of Health (NIH) as well as our county health professionals,” explained Landrigan. “By using CAD, we can design safe classroom spaces for all students in all of the district’s facilities.”

If you have questions or would like additional information about Woodland Public Schools’ transition to expanded secondary education, you can call your student’s school main office, the district office at (360) 841-2700 or visit the district’s dedicated COVID HQ at www.woodlandschools.org/covid-hq.

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April 20, 2021

Contact: OHA External Relations, covid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us" target="_blank">orcovid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon reports 580 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 1 new death

PORTLAND, Ore. — There is one new COVID-19 related death in Oregon, and the state’s death toll remains at 2,460 because of a data correction from a previously reported death, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 580 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 176,157.

Updates to indoor sports metrics, effective April 23

Recognizing the importance of athletics for the physical and mental health of Oregon’s youth athletes and at the direction of the Governor’s Office, OHA has updated Oregon’s metrics for allowing the resumption of indoor full-contact sports. Sports organizations are required to follow health and safety measures for indoor full-contact sports to lessen the risk of COVID-19 infection. Additional guidance for indoor full-contact sports from OHA is forthcoming.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 26,051 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 17,762 doses were administered on April 19 and 8,289 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on April 19.

The seven-day running average is now 34,935 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered a total of 1,349,485 doses of Pfizer, 1,135,323 doses of Moderna and 88,696 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines. As of today, 1,044,211 people have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series. There are 1,615,363 who have had at least one dose.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

To date, 1,645,605 doses of Pfizer, 1,360,500 doses of Moderna and 215,500 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 255, which is 12 more than yesterday. There are 58 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is one more than yesterday.

The total number of patients in hospital beds may fluctuate between report times. The numbers do not reflect admissions per day, nor the length of hospital stay. Staffing limitations are not captured in this data and may further limit bed capacity.

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Cases and deaths

Note: Reported case counts and electronic laboratory report (ELR) totals are lower than expected today due to unexpected downtime of Opera, Oregon’s COVID-19 case database, which occurred during business hours yesterday. This downtime paused the processing of ELRs received yesterday, and OHA expects that all delayed ELRs will be processed today. OHA anticipates case counts and ELR totals to be higher than expected tomorrow due to this delay.

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Benton (20), Clackamas (47), Clatsop (1), Columbia (3), Coos (6), Crook (11), Curry (4), Deschutes (42), Douglas (8), Gilliam (1), Grant (8), Harney (7),  Hood River (3), Jackson (47), Jefferson (1), Josephine (12), Klamath (47), Lake (1), Lane (67), Linn (13), Malheur (2), Marion (21), Morrow (2), Multnomah (86), Polk (7), Tillamook (1), Umatilla (15), Union (2), Wallow (1), Wasco (3), Washington (81), Wheeler (1) and Yamhill (9).

Note: On April 7, OHA reported in error Oregon’s 2,434th COVID-19 death as a 48-year-old man from Union County who tested positive on Nov 11. The man is not dead, and the number of COVID-19 deaths in Oregon has been adjusted to accommodate this error.

Oregon’s 2,460th death is an 82-year-old man from Sherman County who tested positive on Jan. 11 and died on Jan. 27 at Yuma Regional Medical Center in Yuma, Arizona. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon updates vaccine waste disclosure1,2,3

1Updated: 04/20/21 

2Data source: ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS) 

3Data is preliminary and subject to change.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations? 

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine situation in Oregon, visit our webpage (English?or?Spanish), which has a breakdown of distribution and other information

Fire Investigators have completed the investigation of the 40-acre Neibur Road brush fire on Friday, April 16, 2021 and determined the cause as accidental. The fire was ignited by an individual using a gas-powered chainsaw without a spark arrester in place. A spark was discharged from the saw, landing in light, dry fuels, which ignited the fire. Due to significant winds in the area, the fire quickly spread. The fire grew beyond what the property owner could extinguish on their own, at which point, 911 was activated.

Please ensure spark arresters are in place, when operating gas-powered equipment; and take extra caution with use, when increased fire danger is present. As an added safety precaution, consider having a hose or access to water to quickly extinguish a fire during its initial phase of burning.

B-roll footage of the Neibur Fire:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/nmuq895l88qzwcg/2021-04-16%20Neibur%20Road%20Fire.MOV?dl=0

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April 20, 2021

DA Mike Schmidt charges two people after windows smashed during direct action event

PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt filed criminal mischief and felony riot charges against Emily Keppler and Emma Lightstone for allegedly breaking out windows during a planned direct action event that targeted a North Portland neighborhood.

It is alleged that during the direct action, which was advertised on social media, law enforcement received information about a person, later identified as Emma Lightstone approaching the Bank of America branch, located in the 5700 block of Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and then using a hammer to strike an ATM multiple times.

It is alleged that Lightstone then handed the hammer to another suspect—later identified as Emily Keppler.

Keppler struck the screen of the ATM several times, according to court documents.

During the direct action, both Lightstone and Keppler allegedly used the same hammer to break multiple windows at the U.S. Bank, located in the 5500 block of Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. It is alleged that Keppler and Lightstone caused more than $1,000 in damages. 

Before they could be contacted by law enforcement, both Lightstone and Keppler changed their clothing, according to court documents.

When police located and arrested Lightstone, officers searched Lightstone's backpack and located a silver hammer, black jacket and black gloves, according to court documents.

Police located and arrested Keppler in the area of Northeast 15th Avenue and Northeast Killingsworth Avenue. During a search after arrest, law enforcement located black clothing inside consistent to the description provided to law enforcement, according to court documents.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office is working with law enforcement to identify and then prosecute the person responsible for breaking out windows at the “Blazers Club” of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metropolitan Area.

Individuals with information on the identity of this person—or others involved in the criminal acts that occurred during this or other direct action events—should contact law enforcement immediately by calling 503-823-3333.

No additional information can be released by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.

A charging document is only an accusation of a crime. Keppler and Lightstone are innocent unless and until proven guilty.

#MCDA#

Media Contact:

Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Email: rent.Weisberg@mcda.us">Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

Earlier today, a jury in Minneapolis, Minnesota found ex-police officer Derek Chauvin guilty on all three charges related to the murder of George Floyd. This case sparked strong emotions worldwide, including here in Washington County, exposing what can happen when police use-of-force decisions result in a tragic death and the loss of trust in law enforcement. 

As your public safety and law enforcement leaders, we recognize the immense trauma and pain this trial and the past year have brought, especially among Black community members and other people of color.  

The conviction of Derek Chauvin on second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter charges is an essential statement of accountability in our justice system. Our nation must acknowledge the harm from inequitable outcomes our justice system has had on Black Americans and demand accountability.  

We commit to the hard work of rebuilding trust through effective accountability and transparency. We believe that difficult times demand positive change. Our public safety professionals remain committed to being part of that change while deepening our partnerships with the communities we serve, particularly those historically marginalized by our justice system. 

Your public safety and law enforcement leaders are committed to working alongside all our community members, upholding First Amendment rights, and ensuring the safety of our community.

April 20, 2021

District Attorney Mike Schmidt releases statement on Derek Chauvin guilty verdict

PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt released the following statement following the verdict in State of Minnesota v. Derek Chauvin.

“The significance of this verdict cannot be overstated. This trial was vastly more than just a police officer on trial for the murder of a man. It was about humanity and sanctity of Black life. It proved excessive force is a weapon. Although this verdict delivered justice in one case, it will not, by itself, transform the criminal justice system that took the life of George Floyd. We must resist the urge to turn to other matters – this struggle is not over. The verdict will not, by itself, protect the next George Floyd. Now, we must take what we know—what we’ve learned from this trial—and find the strength to bring about transformative change in institutions across our country, and to heal and reestablish trust. This moment must serve to remind us of the tremendous gulf between where we are and where we truly must be.”

A video copy of this statement can be obtained by clicking here.

#MCDA#

Media Contact:

Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Email: rent.Weisberg@mcda.us">Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

The Centennial School District Governing Board will meet in a work session Wednesday, April 21, 2021 virtually via the Zoom app at 6:30 p.m.

To access the meeting agenda and documents paste this address into your browser:  https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/1561

Additional documents will be added as they become available.

To join the April 21th meeting paste the address below into your browser

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89077849481?pwd=cU1GNCtSSXgwNURjOWpHSjl0Q3Vvdz09
Passcode: 328923

To join by phone dial
1-346-248-7799 or 1-669-900-9128
Webinar ID: 890 7784 9481
 Passcode: 328923

Please allow time for resolution of technology issues if the meeting does not immediately begin at the scheduled start time. Your patience is appreciated.

For more information contact Pamela Jordan at dan@csd28j.org">pamela_jordan@csd28j.org or 971-219-3755.

April 20, 2021

Contact:

Philip Schmidt, 503-383-6079, philip.schmidt@dhsoha.state.or.us (media inquiries)

Tara Chetock, 971-304-9917, a.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us">tara.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us (webinar information or accommodation)

Oregon Health Policy Board meets for an educational webinar April 27 via Zoom

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Health Policy Board.

When: April 27, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Where: Virtual meeting only. The public can join remotely via Zoom or a conference line.

To join via Zoom: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1619133290?pwd=NlRGdG5oamxBcStRS1VxVUFaWkkyZz09   

One tap mobile: +16692545252,,1619133290#,,,,377821#

Purpose: This educational webinar will update the Oregon Health Policy Board and members of the public about a collaborative effort to develop and implement measures of the health sector's role in kindergarten readiness to drive transformative and cross-sector collective action to support children's health and kindergarten readiness. The webinar will provide details about a new Social-Emotional Health metric developed by the Oregon Pediatric Improvement Partnership and Children's Institute in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority, being proposed for inclusion in the 2022 CCO Incentive Measure Set.

This educational webinar is for informational purposes only. Board member attendance is optional, and no official business will be conducted.

For more information and meeting materials, please visit the OHPB meeting webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/OHPB/Pages/OHPB-Meetings.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:

• CART (live captions)
• 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 Tara Chetock at 971-304-9917, 711 TTY, a.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us">tara.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Statement from Multnomah County Sheriff Mike Reese:

Today, by a jury of his peers, former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty on all counts for the murder of George Floyd. While the verdict will never bring back George Floyd, it provides a measure of closure to his family, friends and the greater community. The systems of accountability worked, holding an individual, who worked within that very system, responsible for their criminal actions.

As I shared with you following Floyd’s death in May 2020, I condemn the actions of Derek Chauvin and the actions of other officers for failing to intervene. Floyd’s death should have never happened.

At the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, we believe in the sanctity of life and treating everyone with dignity and respect. We have a moral responsibility to protect people in our custody from harm. The actions by Derek Chauvin and additional officers go against our training and our code of ethics.

As Multnomah County Sheriff, I remain committed to examining our policies and protocols to ensure they are considered best practices and that they reinforce equity now and in the future. In early April, I published an open letter to the community detailing the actions MCSO has taken over the past year to answer your calls for reform and provide the very best public safety services to the communities we serve. This work will continue, because Black lives matter in Multnomah County.

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Salem, OR (April 20, 2021) - On Friday, April 30 at noon on Zoom, the Salem City Club hosts Oregon’s 28th Secretary of State Shemia Fagan. She is one of the state’s three constitutional officers, along with the Governor and Treasurer, who has just completed 100 days in office, facing considerable challenges in the areas of redistricting and elections, and economic recovery.

Fagan says she “oversees an agency that is critical to ensuring Oregonians can participate in their democracy, protecting the state's scarce resources, helping facilitate the creation and maintenance of small businesses, and building an awareness of the whole story of Oregon.” 

Before serving as Secretary of State, Fagan, a civil rights attorney, worked at Ater Wynne LLP and later at HKM Employment Attorneys. She holds a B.A. degree from Northwest Nazarene University in Idaho and received her J.D. from Lewis and Clark School of Law in Portland.

Fagan served as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives from 2013 until 2017 and as a member of the Oregon Senate from 2019 until 2020. 

During her time in the Legislature, Secretary Fagan was an active proponent of expanding access to the ballot, including helping to pass Oregon’s landmark Motor Voter Law and National Popular Vote and working to strengthen the nation’s most successful vote-by-mail system.  

A lifelong Oregonian, Secretary Fagan was sworn in as the Secretary of State on January 4, 2021. 

To register for the webinar, go to https://salemcityclub.com/, click the tab that says “Events,” click “Register,” and once registered, a spot will be reserved for the event. Registrants will be sent a link for the Zoom Webinar. Meetings are free for members and $5 for nonmembers.

The following program will be a legislative wrap-up on May 14.

Contact: Mary Louise VanNatta, Salem City Club (503) 370-2808, office@salemcityclub.com

The FBI will always honor and protect your First Amendment rights, and we will do everything we can to protect your ability to gather peaceably, to speak, and to demand the change that you want. As we head into the days and weeks before us, we ask that you join together, using this time to help shape a future for all our children that is safe, free, and just.

At the same time, our community faces the risk of allowing those focused only on violence to steal the moment for their own. The small groups of rioters causing destruction, committing arson, and engaged in other serious crimes on a nightly basis, continue to target Portland and elsewhere in Oregon.  Their violence and threats to tear down our community, must not be tolerated. We - along with our local, state, and federal partners - continue to work to make sure they are held accountable for the destruction they leave behind. Unlike us, those bent on violence don't believe that you should have a voice in the future that we share. 

The days before us bring great promise - and great concern. We, collectively, have the chance to move our shared community forward. This once-in-a-generation opportunity should allow us to work together to build a more just society that both respects our differences and reflects our common values.

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On Sunday, April 18, 2021, Lincoln City Police, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and Oregon State Police arrested two subjects for various charges relating to theft, identity theft, unauthorized entry to motor vehicles, fraudulent use of credit card, and criminal mischief.

During the investigation of some of the reported criminal activity, a description of the involved subjects and the vehicle they were in was developed. The information regarding this suspect vehicle was distributed to local law enforcement agencies. The described vehicle was located traveling southbound on Hwy 101 in the north end of Depoe Bay and a traffic stop was conducted.

Donald Wright (37) and Mirinda Larsen (40), of Clackamas County, were both arrested after many reports of thefts from vehicles, followed by fraudulent credit card uses at stores in and around Lincoln City, Lincoln Beach, and Depoe Bay.

Wright and Larsen’s vehicle, which was filled with new/unused items, was seized by Lincoln City Police as evidence. The items inside are suspected to be stolen and/or fraudulently purchased.

After the suspects were arrested, they were released with criminal citations to appear before a judge due to not meeting the Lincoln County Jail’s Covid-19 lodging criteria.

Wright (left) was arrested and charged with the following relating to Lincoln City investigations: First Degree Theft, Unauthorized Entry to a Motor Vehicle x2, and Second Degree Criminal Mischief x2.

Larsen (right) was arrested and charged with the following relating to Lincoln City investigations: First Degree Theft, Unauthorized Entry to a Motor Vehicle x2, and Second Degree Criminal Mischief x2.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office also arrested both subjects for various crimes related to investigations around the North Lincoln County area.

The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible. If you recognize these subjects from recent suspicious activity, please contact Detective Burke at 541-994-3636 and refer to case LCP21000614.

Submitted By: Sergeant Jeffrey Winn

WHO:              David Gerstenfeld, Acting Director, Oregon Employment Department

WHEN:            Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at 1 p.m. PT

WHAT:            Oregon Employment Department Acting Director David Gerstenfeld will hold a video conference media briefing to share updates on economic and workforce-related trends, unemployment claims processing, claimant resources and more on April 21 at 1 p.m. PT.

WHERE:         Via Zoom video conference: Members of the media must RSVP for call information by emailing OED_Communications@oregon.gov by 12 p.m. PT on April 21. Video conference information will be provided to all reporters who RSVP.

OTHER:          The Oregon Employment Department is updating a claims processing progress data dashboard daily. Visit this link for weekday updates. A recording of the video conference will be emailed to reporters attending the briefing after the briefing concludes.

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Equal Opportunity program — auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Contact: (503) 947-1794. For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, call 711 Telecommunications Relay Services.

Today, April 20th, 2021, agency heads and elected officials from multiple local law enforcement agencies in Marion and Polk counties have come together to join us in affirming our Commitment to Community. 

Commitment to Community

In May of last year, the world watched for what seemed like an eternity as Mr. George Floyd, Jr. died as a Minneapolis police officer kneeled on his neck. In the days, weeks and months that followed, we saw vigils, peaceful protests, violent demonstrations and calls to action for police and criminal justice reform.

Together, as a community, we wait for the outcome of the trial of former police officer Derek Chauvin who is being prosecuted for his role in Floyd’s death. Regardless of the verdict, we encourage our community to respond with peace and civility.

We see this moment in time as a unique opportunity to come together with our communities to seek better understanding and have meaningful and productive conversations around police reform. As law enforcement professionals, we stand with you in opposition to racism and hate.

Our commitment to the residents of Salem and Marion and Polk counties remains steadfast and clear. Together we can reflect upon our policies, practices, training and the ways in which we interact to reshape policing for the specific needs of our community. We will continue to work collaboratively with all members of our diverse community as we listen, learn, enhance relationships and strive for equity in the services we provide.

On behalf of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, we want to acknoweldge the following partner agencies for joining us in this release:

• Keizer Police Department
• Marion County Sheriff’s Office
• Mt. Angel Police Department
• Polk County Sheriff’s Office
• Salem Police Department
• Silverton Police Department
• Stayton Police Department
• Woodburn Police Department

The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is pleased to announce the graduation of its 406th Basic Police Class.

The Basic Police Class is 16-weeks in length and includes dozens of training areas including survival skills, firearms, emergency vehicle operations, ethics, cultural diversity, problem solving, community policing, elder abuse, drug recognition, and dozens of other subjects.

Basic Police Class 406 will graduate during a private ceremony at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem, Oregon on Thursday, April 29, 2021 at 1:30 p.m.

Due to the COVID 19 pandemic and the need for social distancing the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training regrets that this ceremony will be closed to the public. However, we would like to publicly congratulate Basic Police #BP406 on their successful completion of basic training

Graduating members of BP 406:

Police Officer Jeremy Baker

Umatilla Tribal Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Jorddon Braaten

Josephine County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff Izach Brown

Hood River County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff Lance Brown

Lake County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Melissa Cortez

Salem Police Department

Police Officer Stephen Craig

Warm Springs Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Abigail Curtis

Crook County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff Justin Darnell

Lane County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff Michael Dolan

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff Jack Douglas

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Scott Fromherz

Corvallis Police Department

Police Officer Jacob Harmon

Brookings Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Lex Harrold

Lane County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff Kendall Hazel

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer James Iverson

Salem Police Department

Police Officer Lucas Koester

Albany Police Department

Police Officer Robert Lowrance

Stanfield Police Department

Police Officer Ustin Luna

Salem Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Michael Muro

Multnomah County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff Ross Neill

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Jose Orozco

Tigard Police Department

Police Officer Jordan Parado

Springfield Police Department

Police Officer Chino Pumpelly

Tigard Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Magali Quintero

Clackamas County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Cort Read

Salem Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Nicholas Reinecker

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Brett Shields

Salem Police Department

Deputy Sheriff David Sloboda

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff William Strubel

Lane County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff Anthony Tillman

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff Benjamin Tinnell

Hood River County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff Tyler Watkins

Lincoln County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Brian Weber

Astoria Police Department

Police Officer Matthew Zoll

Springfield Police Department

## Background Information on the DPSST ##

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) operates the Oregon Public Safety Academy which spans more than 235 acres in Salem. The Academy is nationally recognized for its innovative training programs and active stakeholder involvement.  Jerry Granderson serves as the Director, and Darren Bucich, Chief of McKenzie Fire & Rescue, serves as the Chair of the Board. The department implements minimum standards established by the Board for the training and certification of more than 40,000 city, tribal, county and state law enforcement officers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, fire service personnel, telecommunicators, emergency medical dispatchers and private security providers.

DPSST provides training to more than 25,000 students each year throughout Oregon and at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem: certifies qualified officers at various levels from basic through executive; certifies qualified instructors; and reviews and accredits training programs throughout the state based on standards established by the Board.

On April 13, 2021 at approximately 1757 hours a 13-year-old male juvenile was assaulted by four 16- year-old male juveniles and one 15-year-old female juvenile.  The incident took place at Swanson Park, located at 712 Jackson Street SE in Albany. 

At this time the female juvenile and one of the four male juveniles have been arrested.  Both have been lodged at the Linn Benton Juvenile Detention Center.  The female was lodged on the following charges: Assault in the Third Degree, Coercion, Criminal Conspiracy and Bias Crime in the Second Degree.  The male was lodged on the following charges: Assault in the Third Degree, Criminal Conspiracy and Bias Crime in the First Degree. 

Albany Police Department Detectives are continuing the investigation and the other three juvenile males involved are still outstanding.  Detectives are seeking information on an unknown female driver of a vehicle involved in the incident. 

The Albany Police Department would like to acknowledge the Greater Albany Public Schools for their support in the investigation and their support of the families involved. 

Chief Marcia Harnden states “This crime shows the ugliness of hate that exists in our society today and has no place in the City of Albany or any community.  I ask our community and especially the parents of our kids to have honest discussions about treating others with dignity and respect.  This incident started over hate speech and escalated when the victim stood up against that speech.  Racism and hate is learned and not inherent in our DNA.   We need to have honest community discussions around combating hate and their related crimes in all forms.  We need to embrace acceptance and to prevent acts of racism in our society.  Thank you to the numerous staff at the Albany Police Department and our community partners for making this case a priority.”

The victims were referred to the Oregon Department of Justice Bias Report and Support System.  Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to call Albany Police Department Detective Lee Phelps at 541-791-0227.

For Immediate Release                                                         

April 19, 2021

Contact:          Theresa Janda
                        (503) 373-1553

NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING

The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on April 22, 2021.  The meeting will be held in the Boardroom at the Oregon Public Safety Academy located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon.  The meeting location is closed to the public, due to the current pandemic, however, this meeting will be live-streamed on the DPSST Facebook page – see below. 

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Board members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.

The meeting will be live-streamed on the DPSST Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/DPSSTOregon/

Agenda items:

1.   Introductions

Welcome new Board members, Jeff Auxier, Carol Dishion, Terry Rowan, and Chris Skinner.

2.  Minutes

Approve minutes from the January 28, 2021 Meeting

3.  Fire Policy Committee

     a.  Fire Policy Committee Update – Jim Oeder, Chair

     b.  Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

         A.Proposed Rule change – OAR 259-009-0005, OAR 259-009-0062 and OAR 259- 009-0065 – Approve

             NFPA Fire Officer – Adopt 2020 Edition of NFPA 1021

            Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 24, 2021

        B.  Proposed Rule change – OAR 259-009-0005 and OAR 259-009-0062 – Approve

            NFPA Marine Based Fire Fighter for Land-Based Fire Fighters – Adopt 2020 Edition of NFPA 1021

           Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 24, 2021

        C. Nathan Smith DPSST#12671 (West Side RFPD) – Revoke

          Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 24, 2021.

4.  Criminal Justice Policy Committees

    a. Police Policy Committee Update – John Teague, Chair

    b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Linsay Hale, Staff

    c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Nadine Purington, Chair

    d. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

         A. Proposed Rule change – OAR 259-008-0085

          Updating Current Versions for Two Field Training Manuals.

          Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 9, 2021.

         B. Proposed Rule change – OAR 259-008-0100 and OAR 259-080-0005

         Oregon Fallen Law Enforcement Memorial Eligibility Criteria

         Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 9, 2021, Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 18, 2021.

         C. Proposed Rule change – OAR 259-008-0290, OAR 2599-008-0300 and 259-008-0310

         Moral Fitness Standards Relating to Discrimination

         Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 9, 2021, Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC with revisions on February 18, 2021, Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on February 3, 2021.

         D. Seth Collins DPSST#50235 (Cannon Beach Police Department) – Revoke

         Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 18, 2021.

         E. Ryan Dews DPSST#46380 (Columbia County Sheriff’s Office) – Revoke

         Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 18, 2021.

         F. Christopher Hanson DPSST#30677 (Rogue River Police Department) - Revoke

         Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 18, 2021.

         G. Brian Lister DPSST#36594 (Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office) - Revoke

         10/2 vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 18, 2021.

         H. Robert Obenauf DPSST#32107 (Washington County Sheriff’s Office) – No Action

         7/5 vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 18, 2021.

         I. Christian Powell DPSST#33913 (McMinnville Police Department) – Revoke

         Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 18, 2021.

         J. Douglas Treat DPSST#29837 (Lake Oswego Police Department) – No Action

         Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 18, 2021.

         K. Jimmy Yeager DPSST#13084 – No Action

         Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 18, 2021.

         L. Brian Davis DPSST#25612 – Revoke

         Unanimous vote with one recusal to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 9, 202

         M. David Duwelius DPSST#46066 (Department of Corrections/Two Rivers Correctional Institution) – Revoke

         Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 9, 20210.

         N. Desteni Felton DPSST#45595 (Baker County Sheriff’s Office) - Revoke

         10/4  vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 9, 20210.

         O. Spencer Higgins DPSST#48698 (Jackson County Sheriff’s Office) – Revoke

         Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 9, 2021.

         P. Chris Keyser DPSST#35121 (Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office) - Revoke

         Unanimous vote with one recusal to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 9, 2021.

         Q. James Mahoney DPSST#43650 (Department of Corrections/Powder River Correctional Facility) - Revoke

         Unanimous vote with one recusal to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 9, 2021.

         R. Amyr Motlagh DPSST#58470 (Lane County Sheriff’s Office) – Revoke

         12/1 vote with one recusal to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 9, 2021.

         S. Loren Peters DPSST#55373 (Department of Corrections/Deer Ridge Correctional Facility) – Revoke

         13/1 vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 9, 2021.

         T. Committee Appointments

         Corrections Policy Committee Appointments

•      Kevin Marhsall – Reappointment to the CPC; 2nd term effective 4/22/21

     e. Parole &Probation Field Training Manual (FTM)

     presented by Chris Enquist

     f. Proposed Rule Change OAR 259-008-0080

     Grounds to Deny or Revoke Instructor Certification – Jennifer Howald

5.  Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

     a. Private Security Investigator Policy Committee Update – Thomas Thomas, Chair.

     b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

         A. Committee Appointments

         Private Security Investigator Policy Committee

•         Helena Snyder – Appointment to the PSIPC, 1st term effective 4/22/21 – replaces Myron Sanders representing the Oregon State Bar.

6.  Director's Quarterly Reports

7.  Next Meeting Date:  July 22, 2021

On April 15, 2021, Tualatin Police conducted an underage decoy operation. Underage volunteers attempted to purchase alcohol at establishments in Tualatin. Out of 10 establishments visited, a total of one sold alcohol to the underage decoy.

The goal of an underage decoy program is to reduce youth access to alcohol by encouraging licensees to verify that an individual purchasing alcohol is at least 21 years of age. The underage participants answer any questions about their age truthfully and do not use fake identification.

Sales clerks and servers who furnish alcohol to an underage person can be charged with a criminal penalty. A first conviction results in a $500 fine; second conviction, $1,000; third or subsequent conviction, $1,500 fine and not less than 30 days of imprisonment (ORS 471.410). For the non-compliant store/restaurant owner or licensee, the Oregon Liquor Control Commission may impose administrative sanctions and a possible license suspension or revocation.

The operation was funded by a grant from the Washington County Health and Human Services. The underage decoy operations will continue with the goal of achieving 100% compliance rate (no sales to youth) among Tualatin establishments. In addition to the underage decoy operation, Washington County Health and Human Services is also working with several local coalitions, such as Tualatin Together to prevent and disband unsafe social environments conducive to underage drinking. The groups hope to raise awareness about the dangers of binge and underage drinking, as well as discourage adults from providing alcohol for their kids and their kids’ friends.

On April 20, 2021, at about 5:08am, Forest Grove Police Officers and Washington County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a motor vehicle crash at Pacific Avenue and Highway 47, in Forest Grove.

When officers arrived they located a car and a motorcycle that had collided in the intersection. The motorcyclist was deceased shortly after emergency personnel arrived.

The preliminary investigation indicates that a motorist was southbound on Quince Street and was performing a left turn onto Pacific Avenue to go eastbound. As the driver turned left they collided with a motorcyclist traveling northbound on Highway 47.

The Washington County Crash Analysis and Reconstruction Team (C.A.R.T.) is assisting with the investigation which is ongoing. Drugs or alcohol do not appear to be a factor in the crash. The identity of the motorcyclist is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

The Forest Grove Police Department encourages all motorists to be extra attentive for motorcyclists during the spring and summer seasons.

(NEWBERG, OR) – Colin Bolek, a Senior at Newberg High School, heard about an opportunity to become a Student Commissioner on the Newberg Planning Commission his sophomore year of high school. Recognizing the opportunity to impact his community, Colin applied and has served in the position for two years. A long-term resident of Newberg, and as a senior at Newberg High School, this year Colin is also leaving behind a legacy by bringing forth a resolution to include a student commissioner on every standing City board, commission, and committee.  

Working with the City of Newberg City Recorder Sue Ryan, Colin brought a resolution in front of the Newberg City Council on March 15, 2021 to add student commissioners to all of the standing boards, committees, and commissions in which they can legally serve. According to Colin, “I felt it was important to encourage and provide the opportunity for young people to become involved in local government. I think large-scale, top-down changes are necessary for many types of change and reform, but I think we’ve gone too far in this direction and have lost recognition for the fact that we as citizens, regardless of age, have agency at much more local, personal levels.” The resolution also works to meet the City Council’s goal of increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion, giving a voice to the younger generation on City decisions and increasing the City’s community engagement efforts.

Serving as a student on the Newberg Planning Commission, Colin has been able to provide his voice on land use matters throughout Newberg. “I was fortunate enough to have some more senior Planning Commission members mentor and encourage me. I was empowered to not just view myself as an “ex-officio non-voting student member” of the commission, but rather as an involved and active member who used their experiences, critical thinking, and ability to ask questions in order to offer input, feedback, and engagement.” He continued, “It is my hope that student commissioners can enjoy the same experiences where they feel sufficiently empowered to go in front of the City Council, propose reforms to them, and be involved in the process of implementing these reforms.”

With the new resolution comes openings for students age 16 – 24 who live in Newberg on all City Boards, Commissions, and Committees. Currently, student commissioner positions are available on the Affordable Housing Committee, the Citizens’ Rate Review Committee, the Historic Preservation Commission, the Library Advisory Board, and the Planning Commission. Students do not have to be enrolled in a particular school to apply, and can attend either high school or college, but must reside in Newberg.

Newberg Mayor Rick Rogers said of the new available student commissioner positions, “For many of us, national politics and the effects of macro legislation can seem far, far away. However, students such as Colin and others who have served in the past, show that young voices can affect change locally. So, students, here it is: a chance to help by getting involved.”

For Colin, passing this resolution means investing in both the community and its future, “I believe that student commissioners can bring a different perspective to the table. Young people now more than ever are learning about the world each day at a fast pace. The combination of this access to information and the experience these positions can provide can create capable and understanding future leaders. This is, in short, an investment in our City’s youth, providing it an invaluable service and students an opportunity to invest in themselves.”

Mayor Rogers also believes in Newberg students’ ability to effect change, “To every student in Newberg I ask: Do you want to make Newberg a better place? Do you want to learn more about how the city operates and why money is spent the way it is? Are issues involving historic preservation, the library, planning, affordable housing, or the rates families pay for city services important to you? Do you feel your voice should be heard? We certainly do. Please apply."

Applications for a student commissioner position are available now at www.NewbergOregon.gov/bc-application. Applications are due June 1, 2021. To learn more about the boards and commissions, students are encouraged to visit the City’s website.

To hear more news from the City of Newberg, follow along on Facebook, Twitter, or at the City Website: www.NewbergOregon.gov

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries is excited to see you again.

Following Washington State’s “Roadmap to Recovery” plan and the state’s safety protocols, FVRLibraries locations throughout Clark, Skamania, Klickitat, and Cowlitz Counties began letting patrons in as a “soft opening” last week. This was in order to practice new safety protocols and ensure staff was trained and ready for the public’s return to library buildings. Now, the library district is happy to announce that they’ve officially reopened their libraries with limited services.

Patrons can browse the library’s collection, use computers and printer/scanners, pick up holds, and get assistance from staff. Visits are limited to 30 minutes or less, starting at the top of each hour, allowing time for library staff to clean each hour. Under state guidelines, building access is limited, and all patrons over the age of five must wear a mask or face covering.

The library district encourages patrons to schedule a visit via their website, www.fvrl.org, though walk-in visitors will be served on a first-come, first-served basis, as allowed by capacity. Curbside pickup of holds and all online services – including virtual programs – will also continue.

“We are very excited to welcome you back inside the library,” said Amelia Shelley, Executive Director of FVRLibraries. “After a year of serving our communities through curbside pickup, books by mail, and virtually, it’s great to open our doors and see patrons in-person.”

In keeping with safety guidelines, patrons may notice a few changes to their library. Plexiglass barriers and other safety enhancements have been added, and some services such as in-person programs, meeting rooms, and children’s play areas are still not available. The library district asks that all visitors follow staff instructions and signage while in their locations.

For more information about FVRLibraries’ reopening, including branch service hours, visit www.fvrl.org or call 360-906-5000.

Sgt. Greg Barber

Sgt. Barber was hired by the Keizer Police Department on May 17, 1993, and retired on February 25, 2021. Before being hired by the Keizer Police Department, Sgt. Barber served in the U.S. Air Force and was a reserve officer with the Monmouth Police Department. Sgt. Barber served in many capacities: field training officer, department trainer, School Resource Officer, detective, patrol sergeant, K9 unit supervisor, Honor Guard, and the School Resource Officer program supervisor.

Lt. Bob Trump

Lt. Trump was hired by the Keizer Police Department on January 3, 1993, and will retire on May 1, 2021. Before being hired by the Keizer Police Department, Lt. Trump was a reserve officer with the Portland Police Bureau. Lt. Trump served in many capacities: field training officer, department trainer and training coordinator, traffic team member, detective, patrol sergeant, Community Response Unit sergeant, detective sergeant, and lieutenant.

We wish both officers the best of luck in their future endeavors and thank them for their many years of quality service!

Since Lt. Trump is retiring, please note the changes below to our Public Information Officer positions, effective April 30:

PIO: Lt. Trevor Wenning—503 932-3513 WenningT@Keizer.org                

Back-up PIO: Lt. Chris Nelson—503 932-0909 NelsonC@keizer.org

SALEM, Ore. — As part of Oregon Arbor Month – the celebration of trees and their benefits extended to a full month for the first time this year by Gov. Kate Brown – the Oregon Department of Forestry has created an online guide to all 69 Tree City USA communities in the state.

The storymap can be viewed here.

Kristin Ramstad, manager of the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Program, said the map is a way for any Oregonian to see how Tree City USA communities have strengthened their urban forestry programs.

“Each city was asked, ‘What does earning Tree City USA recognition mean to your city?’,” said Ramstad. “With this information, my colleague Katie Lompa worked with Michael Lathrop, ODF’s ArcGIS expert, to create an inspiring and engaging story, combining images, text, and an interactive Oregon map showing the location of each Tree City USA in the state.

Ramstad said the answers reveal wide recognition from small towns to large cities of the many ways in which trees enrich lives of urban Oregonians. “We hear from many of these communities how their urban forests serve as vital green infrastructure for everything from flood control and buffering of air and noise pollution to moderating urban heat. The Tree City USA program provides a framework for cities to focus their urban forestry efforts.”

The storymap also lists the number of Heritage or Peace trees the city has, with a link to that information, added Ramstad.

Besides giving the number of years a community has been recognized as a Tree City USA community, Ramstad said the storymap also indicates other recognitions from the Arbor Day Foundation. ODF administers the program in Oregon on behalf of the Foundation.                                

                                                                        # # #

UPDATE: WCSO DEPUTY INVOLVED IN CRASH IDENTIFIED

(Released 04/20/2021)

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office Deputy involved in the vehicle vs. pedestrian crash on April 15, 2021 on SW Murray Blvd. has been identified as Deputy Mark Shah. Deputy Shah was hired by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office in 2008.

Members of the Crash Analysis and Reconstruction Team (C.A.R.T.) are still investigating this incident. Information will continue to be shared as it becomes available for release.

#BPD#

Do you have unwanted or expired medications at your home? The Lane County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to help you safely dispose of prescription drugs while educating the community about the potential for abuse of medications.

This is a no-questions-asked prescription drug drop off in effort to prevent the unsafe disposal of prescription medications, and to prevent medications from being stolen or abused. It is a drive-through event this year in order to reduce the risk of COVID-19.

According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 20.5 million people misused prescription pain relievers, stimulants, tranquilizers or sedatives in 2019. Most of those misused prescription drugs were obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.

This is the tenth year that the Sheriff’s Office has participated in the national event. The DEA has collected 13,684,848 pounds of prescription drugs since the fall of 2010.

Help us in the fight against prescription drug addiction and check your medicine cabinet for prescription drugs that are expired or that you no longer use.

Bring your unwanted, outdated, or expired prescription and over-the-counter medications to the following location for safe disposal:

Where: Roll Park Lot (corner of 7th and Pearl in Eugene)

When: Saturday, April 24, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

How: Drive-through event

Acceptable items: Prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, drug samples, pet medications, ointments, lotions, and liquid medicines in glass or leak proof containers.

We are unable to accept: Needles, thermometers, bloody or infectious waste, medications from businesses, hydrogen peroxide, aerosol cans, inhalers, and diabetic meters.

If you are unable to attend the Drug Take Back Event and you have medications you would like to dispose of, the Lane County Sheriff’s Office has a Drug Drop Box located in our Central Reception lobby in the Lane County Courthouse that is available to accept medications (no appointment necessary) Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, excluding legal holidays.

###

Welcome to the Oregon FBI’s Tech Tuesday segment. Today: Building a digital defense against the dangers of posting COVID-19 vaccination information online.

Last week, we talked about fraudsters who are selling fake vaccination cards on the internet. One way they get those realistic images of cards to sell is by stealing them off legitimate people’s social media pages.

For that reason, once you have received your COVID-19 vaccine, the FBI is asking that you do NOT post a photo of your CDC vaccination card online.

There is more than just the problem of bad actors re-selling images of your card, though. They can also use your post to harvest lots of personal information – which can include your name, date of birth, patient number, and location where you received your vaccine. Once a fraudster has these details, he can steal your identity and do all sorts of damage to your financial health.

If you have already posted a photo of a vaccine card, consider removing it and update your profile picture with a banner or a sticker saying that you got your shot. Some social media platforms have frames or graphics you can use – or you can download stickers from www.cdc.gov.

Finally – if you feel that you have been a victim of identify theft, contact your financial institutions immediately and monitor your credit reports.

You should also report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or call your FBI local office.  

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GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — The Bureau of Land Management has released a funding opportunity inviting new public and private partners to help support the agency’s mission to manage and protect wild horses and burros on public lands. The funding opportunity is open to a variety of organizations, including local and state governments, Native American tribes, other federal agencies and non-profit organizations, among others.

“The BLM has a long history of partnering with national and community-based organizations to help manage and protect wild horses and burros,” said Nada Culver, BLM Deputy Director for Policy. “We are excited to announce this new, simpler and more streamlined process to partner with the BLM on projects to improve the conditions for our nation’s wild horses and burros. I encourage all those who are interested in supporting the well-being of America’s Living Legends to submit a proposal.”

Partnerships formed through this funding opportunity will support critical activities important to the management of wild horses and burros. Proposed projects could include activities such as establishing training programs for wild horses and burros, facilitating the placement of excess animals into private care or assisting with management efforts on public lands, including fertility control application and building range improvements. Applications to care for excess wild horses and burros in off-range facilities, as well as proposals to fund research, are not eligible under this funding opportunity.

Applicants may propose to partner with BLM field, district and national offices. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact the BLM subject matter expert in the relevant office where the proposed work would take place to discuss the type of projects that are available, and whether they meet the requirements under this funding opportunity.

To learn more or for instructions on how to submit a proposal, visit the Notice of Funding Opportunity on Grants.gov. The deadline to submit a proposal is 5 p.m. Eastern Time on May 28, 2021.

-BLM-

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The agency’s mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. Diverse activities authorized on these lands generated $111 billion in economic output across the country in fiscal year 2019—more than any other agency in the Department of the Interior. These activities supported more than 498,000 jobs.

Follow the BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program on Facebook and Twitter

SALEM, Ore. - Oregon National Guard Citizen Soldiers and Airmen have now vaccinated nearly 300,000 people since being activated by Governor Kate Brown on Jan. 8, assisting the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and regional medical partners distribute the COVID-19 vaccine.

In addition to military medical vaccination support, Guardsmen have been trained to assist 211 Information, a local community information call center that helps connect people with health and social service organizations. Since being call-up on Feb. 5, the Guardsmen have now handled approximately 80,000 phone calls, providing information about testing, vaccinations, appointments and other community resources stressed by the lingering pandemic.

On April 19, President Joe Biden announced, “As of today, everyone is eligible to get the vaccine. We have enough of it, you need to be protected.” 

With a waiting line outside the Oregon Convention Center doors to receive the vaccine on April 19, the latest CDC reports confirm that 2,549,201 total doses had been administered in Oregon with 1,600,343 total people vaccinated, and of those, 1,033,175 have completed their series. The number of vaccinated Oregonians continues to rise on a daily basis, as more doses have become available.

The 7-day average for new infections in the State of Oregon is currently on the rise at 650 new cases per day and in total, has claimed the lives of more than 2,450 Oregonians since the initial outbreak in mid-March of 2020. Having the military members support the vaccine efforts will help increase distribution of the vaccine to everyone who now wants to receive the vaccine. 

In addition to the Oregon Guardsmen working at the largest mass vaccination site located at the Portland Convention Center, 16 members of the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Columbia River are currently helping provide administrative support. 

Since March of 2020, Oregon National Guardsmen have been activated to support the state’s COVID-19 Pandemic response, distributing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) throughout the state, establishing contingency hospitals areas, assisted with the largest wildfire season on record last summer, and helped protect lives and property during civil disturbances.

-30-

Photos and B-Roll images:

Still Photos:

210419-Z-CH590-0045 - Oregon National Guard Airman 1st Class Yvette Rascon, assigned to the 173rd Fighter Wing, administers the COVID-19 vaccine during a mass vaccination clinic at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Ore., April 19, 2021. On April 6, President Joe Biden announced that all American adults would be eligible for a coronavirus vaccine by today’s date, as Oregon Guardsmen have now administered nearly 300,000 vaccinations since being activated. (National Guard photo by Master Sgt. John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs) 

210419-Z-CH590-0194 - Oregon Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Ryan Kill, assigned to Headquarters-Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment (left) and Oregon Air National Guard Capt. Daniel Vawter, assigned to the 142nd Wing CERFP (right) discuss the current operational status for the COVID-19 mass vaccination clinic at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Ore., April 19, 2021. On April 6, President Joe Biden announced that all American adults would be eligible for a coronavirus vaccine by today’s date, as Oregon Guardsmen have now administered nearly 300,000 vaccinations since being activated. (National Guard photo by Master Sgt. John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs) 

210419-Z-CH590-0036 - An Oregon Army National Guard medic administers the COVID-19 vaccine at a mass vaccination clinic held at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Ore., April 19, 2021. On April 6, President Joe Biden announced that all American adults would be eligible for a coronavirus vaccine by today’s date, as Oregon Guardsmen have now administered nearly 300,000 vaccinations since being activated. (National Guard photo by Master Sgt. John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs) 

Additional still photos:

https://www.dvidshub.net/image/6606918/oregon-national-guard-continues-support-covid-19-vaccinations-across-state

https://www.dvidshub.net/image/6499805/oregon-national-guard-assist-with-covid-19-vaccine-distribution

B-Roll: 

https://www.dvidshub.net/video/791410/oregon-national-guard-continues-support-covid-19-vaccinations-across-state

https://www.dvidshub.net/video/781417/oregon-national-guard-supports-lane-county-health-and-human-services-with-covid-19-vaccinations

Related Story:  https://www.dvidshub.net/news/390513/oregon-guardsmen-expand-covid-19-vaccinations-support-efforts-statewide

Vancouver, Wash. – Back in August of 2020 the Police Activities League of SW Washington (PAL) began a collaboration with Clark County Latino Youth Leadership (CCLYL), The Underdog Mentality (TUM), and the Boys & Girls Clubs of SW Washington (BGSW) to provide a platform for our young people to share their stories and ask questions around the current climate. With the generous support of the Community Foundation of SW Washington, Amplify Youth Voices (AYV) was born. It began as a four-part conversation series between 10-12 young people and two local law enforcement professionals. Those conversation were filmed and we've been sharing those chats via PAL's YouTube channel. 

The young people who participated in the first sessions though wanted to see them continue and thus AYV 2.0 was born! AYV 2.0 is completely led by a group of five local young leaders and this Friday, April 23rd is their next panel conversation. These young leaders are going to ask law enforcement and first responders questions about the current climate, how we can create change, and what we as a community are currently doing to create the change we need.

We (PAL, CCLYL, TUM, & BGCSW) invite you to tune in and listen in on the conversation. We will be live streaming the panel on the PAL of SW WA - YouTube page starting at 6pm on Friday, April 23rd. We will have ASL interpreation occuring in real time and then we will be adding captions in Spanish after the session. 

We hope you to see you Friday and a huge thanks again to the Community Foundation of SW Washington for making this project possible.

Feel free to email Jenny at jenny.thompson@cityofvancouver.us to learn more the Amplifying Youth Voice project or visit their website at palofswwa.org/the-power-of-youth-voice/

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

On Monday, April 19, 2021 at approximately 6:00 P.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a vehicle crash on Hwy 97 near milepost 52.

Preliminary investigation revealed a Honda Civic, operated by Jesus Lopez (39) of Pasco, WA., was northbound when it left the roadway and struck a tree. 

It is believed the crash happened sometime around 4:00 A.M., on April 19 but was not reported until 6:00 P.M.

Lopez sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

OSP was assisted by ODOT.

At 0119 hours of April 20, 2021 Cowlitz County Deputies were involved in a shooting while attempting to take a suspect into custody near Pacific Way and Ocean Beach in Longview, Washington.  The suspect fled the scene and has not been located at this time.  No injuries were reported. The Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team will be investigating this incident.  Per independent investigation guidelines, the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office will not be involved in the investigation.  Longview Police Captain John Reeves will be serving as team commander for this investigation.

The Sheriff's Office will refer any further media inquiries regarding the investigation to the Longview Police Department.

At 1:35 am, a fire sprinkler activation at 3133 NE Shute Road sent firefighters to the Larkspur Landing Suite Hotel in Hillsboro, OR. Upon arrival, they found water flowing from a sprinkler in a single unit and smoke in the corridor of the hotel. The first arriving fire engine requested an upgrade to a first alarm to bring additional fire crews as a precaution. For safety, hotel guests were advised to shelter in place.

Firefighters made entry into the affected unit and found an occupant attempting to extinguish a fire in the suite’s kitchen area and water flowing from the fire sprinkler. They determined that the fire was extinguished and contained to the single unit. No other units were directly impacted by the fire. However, water flowing from the fire sprinkler extended into the corridor and into some adjacent units.  Firefighters turned off the water flow from the sprinkler and overhauled the corridor and rooms with water vacuums.

The unit’s occupant received minor burns on his hand and leg but refused medical care. No other injuries were reported. Impacted hotel guests were relocated to other rooms.

A Hillsboro Fire Investigator determined the cause to be an accidental unattended cooking fire.

Hillsboro Fire and Rescue reminds you of these safety tips when cooking:

• Always remain present when cooking and keep items that can burn away from the stovetop
• If a fire starts in a pan, use a lid to smother the fire and turn off the stove burner
• Never attempt to extinguish an oil or grease fire using water

For more fire safety tips, please visit: https://www.hillsboro-oregon.gov/our-city/departments/fire/community-risk-reduction/public-education

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue was assisted by Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Hillsboro Police, and Metro West Ambulance.

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PF&R investigators have evidence that an act of arson was responsible for an early morning fire at a building that houses an iconic Portland business.

Just after 3:30am, 911 dispatchers at the Bureau of Emergency Communications began receiving phone calls that a tree was on fire and spreading to an adjacent commercial building, the Portland Garment Factory at 408 SE 79th Ave. When crews arrived, they found heavy fire and smoke coming from the second floor of the two-story building. Firefighters attempted to extinguish the fire by using multiple large hose lines inside the structure but were forced to withdraw to an exterior strategy. Incident Commanders (IC) directed this change in strategy due to the amount of fire that had burned through on the exterior front wall, and its effect on the structural components of the building. This fire weakened the structural components to a point that they posed a serious threat to firefighters inside.

Firefighters were ordered out of the building, and only 22 minutes into the firefight, crews began to radio to the IC that they could see “bulging” in areas of the exterior walls near the roofline.  Crews were directed to confirm over the radio that they had accountability of their members and minutes later large sections of the roof collapsed.

12 occupants of an apartment building next door were evacuated by firefighters as smoke and heat began threatening their apartments and other buildings nearby. Red Cross volunteers were requested to assist with the apartment residents who were then directed to a Tri-Met bus that had been provided as a warm area for them to re-coup..

This fire was upgraded to a level of 3rd alarm due to the size of the fire, potential for structural collapse, evacuation of an adjacent apartment and businesses, potential fire spread to nearby buildings, and rotation of crews. This meant 25 fire engines, ladder trucks, command SUV’s and support equipment and nearly 100 firefighters in total.

Over 20 of the 31 fire stations in the city were emptied while battling this commercial fire, evacuating residents in the immediate hazard zone and protecting adjacent property. This left PF&R staffing specialists scrambling to callback firefighters from home and request help from neighboring fire departments to staff those empty stations for critical medical and fire calls that continued to occur.

Fire investigators were also called to the scene to determine how this fire started. After reviewing witness testimony and physical evidence at the scene they determined the fire to be arson. A security camera captured a suspect starting the fire in a nearby dumpster that spread up an exterior wall and into the building. 

VIDEO AND PHOTO LINK:

https://vimeo.com/538929767/fef4a516c2

Fire Chief Sara Boone had the following to say regarding the early morning fire.. “This fire started in a dumpster, yet the harm spread to a close-knit community. This is a traumatic and devastating loss for the business owner, the property owner, and the team of employees who embraced the innovation and creative niche of the Portland Garment Factory, and the community itself.  I’d like to acknowledge the great work of the firefighters on scene and the Incident Commander in calling additional resources early to prevent fire spread to nearby restaurants, businesses, and occupancies. I would also like to genuinely thank our hard working partners at PBEM, 911 dispatchers at BOEC, officers at PPB, our mutual aid fire departments, Tri-Met and the Red Cross.”

PF&R investigators would like help in identifying the subject seen in the video. If you or someone you know has any information about this person or any other information that would be helpful to investigators, they would like you to call 503-823-INFO (4636).

Portland, Oregon— The Portland Lawyers for Black Lives Matter are seeking justice for a volunteer medic who was severely injured while tending to wounded protesters in the summer of 2020.  This is the second in a series of cases to be brought forth by the group, to hold agents of the Trump administration accountable for their federally funded melee and the injuries they caused on a nightly basis. Physicians for Human Rights conducted a study between July 25th and August 10, 2020 that found that “PPB officers and federal agents engaged in a consistent pattern of disproportionate and excessive use of force against both protestors and medics over the course of June and July 2020.”  

Nate Cohen was one of those medics.

On July 26, 2020, wearing the widely-recognized Red Cross emblem, Cohen was shot in his chest with a tear gas canister at close range, by a federal officer—sent to protect property. His crime? Giving first aid to protesters kneeling in surrender, while federal agents bombarded them with tear gas and chemical agents. Cohen was not a protester. Nor an anarchist. Nor a violent opportunist. He was a man dedicated to serving the Movement. He ignored his own well-being and tended to those who sacrificed their bodies and reputations to express their resistance to our government’s oppression, fear, and violence.   

“This was the scariest thing I’ve experienced in my lifetime,” explains Cohen, “A sitting President ordered troops into an American city to inflict violence against American civilians with total impunity.  They were hiding behind anonymous uniforms of war and left like nothing happened.  That is not ok. That shouldn’t happen in a democracy.”

Cohen moved to Portland in 2008 to do his undergraduate work at Lewis & Clark College. He was active in “Don’t Shoot Portland” and “Empower Portland” demonstrations in his role as a volunteer medic.  His goal was to help create a safe environment for Oregonians to come together and let their voices be heard in the quest for racial justice.  On that night in July, Cohen found himself among the countless non-violent citizens treated like enemy combatants by unidentified Federal officers.  Cohen bled significantly after being shot in the chest with the tear gas canister and was urged by nearby protesters to go to the hospital.  Someone from the Wall of Moms stepped up to rush him to Emanuel emergency room for treatment to his chest contusions. 

“It’s becoming increasingly clear that these agents are simply trained to hurt people.  They don’t care if they’re being filmed or documented, their go-to response is harm, first and foremost,” says Cohen. 

A group of dedicated lawyers has stepped forward to form Portland Lawyers for Black Lives Matter and represent individuals like Nate Cohen. Attorneys Michelle Burrows, Gabriel Chase, Nadia Dahab, Erious Johnson, Jr., Christopher Larsen, Jane Moisan, David Park, Joe Piucci, and David Sugerman have banded together to seek accountability on behalf of Nate Cohen and others, for their injuries and the violation of their Constitutional rights. Cohen v Russell, et al, 21CV12345.

“Though faced down by powerful and militarized forces, these ordinary citizens showed great courage in expressing their support for racial justice,” explains Cohen’s lead attorney Erious Johnson. “They were assaulted by troops only interested in protecting buildings at the expense of human bodies.”

What: A public meeting of the Strategic Data Plan Subcommittee of the Public Health Advisory Board.

Agenda: Discuss subcommittee charter; discuss goals and vision for a public health strategic data plan.

When: Wednesday, April 28, 2-3:30 p.m. A public comment period is offered at the end of the meeting.

Where: Via Zoom meeting. Members of the public may join remotely by phone at 669-254-5252; meeting ID 161 872 7536; or by computer, tablet or smartphone by launching this Zoom link: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1618727536?pwd=b25pTzZFWFBFRlRGbmpFRjU3dTk4QT09.

Background: Oregon’s Public Health Advisory Board provides guidance for Oregon’s governmental public health system and oversees the implementation of public health modernization and Oregon’s State Health Improvement Plan. The Strategic Data Plan subcommittee develops recommendations for a plan that is grounded in equity and centers community values and experiences. 

For more information, see the board's website.

Program contact: Cara Biddlecom, a.m.biddlecom@state.or.us">cara.m.biddlecom@state.or.us, 971-255-6370

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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: Cara Biddlecom at 971-255-6370 711 TTY, or a.m.biddlecom@state.or.us">cara.m.biddlecom@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                Media Contact:

April 19, 2021                                                                                          Stephanie Hooper, president, AGE+

503-348-3633, shooper@ageplus.org

Ageless Awards Honor Oregonians Who Redefine Age

9th Annual AGE+ Event to be held April 22

Four honorable Oregonians will be celebrated for their inspiring contributions later in life during a free, public, virtual celebration Thursday, April 22, 12-1 p.m. (Pre-show at 11:30).

The only event of its kind in Oregon, the 9th Annual Ageless Awards recognizes remarkable people 75 and older who redefine societal expectations; live with purpose; and serve their communities. 

This year, AGE+ proudly honors Gary Maffei of Lake Oswego, Judith Ramaley of Portland, Major General R. Fred Rees of Helix, and Kathleen Saadat of Northeast Portland.

This inspiring event is free to join with pre-registration required at www.AgePlus.org.

“Every person, regardless of age, has the capacity to contribute to their community. This year’s Ageless Award honorees make the best of the gift of long life and generously share it in service to others,” says AGE+ founder and CEO, Keren Brown Wilson.

Oregonians are living longer. In less than a decade, people aged 65+ will outnumber those 18 and younger, according to the March 2021 population forecast by Portland State University's Population Research Center.

The Ageless Awards were founded in 2013. Previous honorees include Sec. Bev Clarno (2020), Bernie and Bobbie Foster (2019), Gert Boyle (2018), Governor Ted Kulongoski (2018), Senator Margaret Carter (2017), Rabbi Joshua Stampfer (2017), Governor Barbara Roberts (2016), Gerry Frank (2015), and Kathryn Jones Harrison (2015), among others.

ABOUT AGE+

AGE+, an Oregon-based nonprofit is a leader in forging innovative solutions to improve the lives of older adults, their families, and their communities. In doing so, AGE+ empowers communities of all ages to value and care for older adults, especially those who are isolated, low-income and underserved. Learn more at www.AgePlus.org.

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What: The regular public meeting of the Oregon Health Authority’s All Payer All Claims Technical Advisory Group.

When: April 21, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Where: By webinar and conference line only. The public may join remotely through a webinar and conference line:

• Join the webinar at

https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1603635275?pwd=SHkydnpRcUM4TGt3djFKK2F2SGVKUT09

• Conference line: 669-254-5252, Meeting ID: 160 363 5275, Password: 220017.

Agenda: General updates: APAC Vendor Transition, Follow up on validation rules changes, Rulemaking in 2021, Data Submitter webpage; Public Comment; adjourn

For more information, please visit the committee's website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/ANALYTICS/Pages/All-Payer-All-Claims-TAG.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.
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact Brian Toups at, 503-385-6542, 711 TTY, rian.m.toups@dhsoha.state.or.us">brian.m.toups@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

What: A public meeting of the Accountability Metrics Subcommittee of the Public Health Advisory Board.

Agenda: Discuss subcommittee charter; review statutory requirements for public health accountability metrics and work to date.

When: Wednesday, April 21, 8-9:30 a.m. A public comment period is offered at the end of the meeting.

Where: Via Zoom meeting. Members of the public may join remotely by phone at 669-254-5252; meeting ID 160 4901 866; or by computer, tablet or smartphone by launching this Zoom link: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1604901866?pwd=MzEwUDJvVTlPOEZUT1hFZ2lWTHlKdz09.

Background: Oregon’s Public Health Advisory Board provides guidance for Oregon’s governmental public health system and oversees the implementation of public health modernization and Oregon’s State Health Improvement Plan. The Accountability Metrics Subcommittee develops recommendations about public health quality measures for the board's consideration.

For more information, see the board's website.

Program contact: Sara Beaudrault, 971-645-5766, a.beaudrault@state.or.us">sara.beaudrault@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: Sara Beaudrault at 971-645-5766, 711 TTY, or a.beaudrault@state.or.us">sara.beaudrault@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

PORTLAND, Ore.—Two known Hoover Criminal Gang members have been arrested in Portland after being charged with illegal firearm possession, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug.

On April 6, 2021, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a two-count indictment charging Samuel Deoshay Marquise Mason, Jr., 24, and Cocoa Dalonta Taplin, 26, both residents of Portland, with illegally possessing firearms after previous criminal convictions.

According to court documents and testimony, law enforcement obtained several images of Mason posing with numerous firearms, leading investigators to obtain and execute a search warrant on his residence. Investigators located an assault rifle and 9mm pistol with an obliterated serial number. Both firearms were fully loaded with rounds in the chamber. A subsequent search of Mason’s mobile phone revealed photos of Taplin holding and posing with two firearms three days prior to the search. Mason confessed to possessing the seized firearms. He also admitted to being shot at the week prior and firing one round in return from a third unknown gun.

Mason and Taplin made their initial appearances in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. They were arraigned and pleaded not guilty.

This case was investigated by the Portland Police Bureau, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Gresham Police Department, and FBI. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

This 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.

# # #

(Salem) – Oregon OSHA has fined Lowe’s Home Improvement stores in Redmond and Albany more than $35,000 for violating standards designed to protect workers from the coronavirus disease. Both sites potentially exposed employees to the disease by willfully failing to ensure that all customers inside the retail stores wore a mask, face covering, or face shield to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The citations, totaling $35,600 in fines, resulted from inspections of the Southwest Canal Boulevard and Ninth Avenue Southeast locations in Redmond and Albany, respectively. The inspections were initiated in response to multiple complaints.

Through employer and employee interviews, and an examination of records, the inspections determined supervisors at the stores were fully aware of the requirement to ensure customer use of facial coverings and yet intentionally decided against carrying out their responsibilities.

The stores’ purposeful infractions illustrate failures to account for reasonable and established measures to help prevent the potential spread of COVID-19 through customer-to-employee transmission.

“It is not enough to leave the protection of employees in the hands of cooperative customers,” said Michael Wood, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “As most employers recognize, they must take appropriate steps to ensure that the rules in place are actually followed. When an employer is not prepared to take such steps, we can and will use our enforcement tools to address the issue.”

Altogether, the inspections documented three violations of workplace health and safety standards at the Lowe’s in Redmond and one at the store in Albany. The citations and penalties – all issued under Oregon OSHA’s temporary rule addressing COVID-19 risks in the workplace – were as follows:

• Both stores chose to disregard Oregon Health Authority requirements to ensure customers (older than age 5) who are inside the establishments wore a source control device, such as a mask, face covering, or face shield. Oregon OSHA issued willful citations, each carrying a $17,500 penalty.
• The Redmond store was also cited for two serious violations. The employer did not develop and implement a complete risk assessment to identify potential employee exposure to the virus. The employer also failed to develop and implement an infection control plan. A penalty of $300 was imposed for each violation.

In addition to its enforcement activities, Oregon OSHA offers employers and workers a variety of consultation, information, and education resources addressing COVID-19. Those resources include an advisory memo, including best practices, for employer enforcement of facial-covering requirements. It is available in English and Spanish.

Employers have 30 days to appeal citations.

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Oregon OSHA, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. For more information, visit osha.oregon.gov.

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, go to www.dcbs.oregon.gov.

Calling the class of 2034! Kindergarten enrollment is open for Battle Ground Public Schools, and with orientations coming up the week of May 24, now is the time to sign up. Orientations are a time for you and your child to get to know your school and to learn more about the kindergarten program. Enrolling your child prior to these orientations is a key step in being prepared for the school year, and helps the district plan for the number of teachers it will need to serve our youngest students.

What to expect

Kindergarten is an exciting time but can also be a lot to take in for youngsters. We put together a fun video with our primary school mascots that you can show your children to help explain what they’ll experience in kindergarten. From getting ready for school, to arriving at their building, checking in and arriving at class, to recess and even a trip to the nurse’s office for a scraped knee, our teachers and staff work hard to make sure kindergarten is a fun and rewarding experience for all of our students. 

Who is eligible?

If your child will be five years old by Aug. 31, 2021, they are eligible to enter kindergarten this fall. Students who enroll in Battle Ground's full-day kindergarten benefit from the advantages of a developmentally appropriate program.

Families can find out which school their child will attend by using the Clark County Property Information Center or by calling the district boundaries office at (360) 885-6577.

Parents will need proof of their child's birth date (such as a birth certificate) and a signed and completed Washington state Certificate of Immunization Status form. Please note that the State of Washington requires that immunization records be medically verified. 

2021-22 School Calendar

School will begin next year on Wednesday, Sept. 1; however, kindergartners have a staggered start. Enrolled kindergartners will be invited to participate in an introductory program that allows small groups of students to get acclimated to the school environment, routines, their teacher and classroom, and other students on the first days of school. Parents will receive a letter before the start of school about their child's start date. A list of key dates for the 2021-22 school year, including breaks and holidays, is available on the district website: www.battlegroundps.org/school-calendars/.

Right At School before and after school care

We are excited to announce a partnership with Right At School, a nationally recognized school enrichment provider.Beginning next Fall, Right At School will offer the program to students in kindergarten through eighth grades. Care will be available from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day school is in session at all primary schools and Amboy Middle. Visit the Right At School website to learn pricing and more.

Preschool Options

Battle Ground Public Schools also offers preschool options for early learners. Prairie High School and the BGPS Community Education Department offer tuition-based preschool programs for ages 3-5. Two and three-day programs called Tigerland are located on the campus of Captain Strong Primary, and a three-day program is offered at Prairie High School. The preschools are designed to prepare early learners for their kindergarten experience. To register for Tigerland, contact Community Education at (360) 885-6584 or by emailing commed@battlegroundps.org. To register for Prairie Preschool, call (360) 885-5004. The district also offers preschools for children with special needs. Please contact the BGPS Special Services Department at (360) 885-5318 for more information. Information about preschool options is available on the district's preschool web page at www.battlegroundps.org/preschool-and-daycare/.

Links:

Online enrollment for kindergartners is now open: 

www.battlegroundps.org/enroll/

Learn which school your child will attend: 

https://gis.clark.wa.gov/gishome/property/index.cfm

www.battlegroundps.org/boundaries/

Key dates for the 2021-22 school year:

www.battlegroundps.org/school-calendars/

Preschool options:

www.battlegroundps.org/preschool-and-daycare/

Hikers took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather this past weekend. Deputies noted a sharp increase of visitors at lakes, rivers and trails in and around the Columbia River Gorge. This made for a busy weekend for members of the Multnomah County Search & Rescue team.

On Saturday, MCSO SAR gathered for scheduled training at 8 a.m. at Multnomah Falls. Teams performed a series of simulated searches on the trails near the popular waterfall. The SAR coordinator, an MCSO deputy, led the training from an incident command base established in the parking lot off I-84, (photo 1 & 2).

During training, around 5:15 p.m., dispatchers received an emergency medical call for a 50-year-old hiker experiencing a heart attack. The hiker was at the top of Angel’s Rest in Bridal Veil, approximately two miles from the trailhead. The coordinator called for some SAR members to return and respond to assist Corbett firefighters. It was reported that three people, not associated with the hiker, were doctors from a local hospital and had begun chest compressions after recognizing the man was unresponsive.

As this event unfolded, dispatchers received a second medical call for a 72-year-old hiker who had become lost and tired while hiking near Wahkeena Falls. As SAR members diverted to the medical calls, it was reported that the 72-year-old was able to return to the trailhead with SAR members close by to assist if needed. He was evaluated by paramedics staged at the trailhead.

SAR members continued to Angel’s Rest. During their response, they learned the 50-year-old hiker did not survive, despite valiant efforts by the medical professionals. The response transitioned from a rescue to a recovery.

A SAR team hiked to the Angel’s Rest viewpoint with a wheeled stokes basket. At about 9:39 p.m., SAR members reached the location and loaded the deceased hiker into the basket. SAR members carefully hiked out, over rocks and around steep switchbacks, in the dark and after spending most of the day hiking with full packs on. Just before 4 a.m. on Sunday morning, SAR members reached the trailhead, where they met the Multnomah County Medical Examiner. After nearly 24 hours on the trail, SAR members were relieved.

MCSO SAR Coordinator Sgt. Keith Bybee on MCSO SAR: “They never fail to impress me. No matter the situation, they always rise to the challenge. We’re proud to have such a dedicated team of volunteers at the ready.”

At approximately 12:25 a.m. Monday morning, dispatchers took a report for three missing people, a 31-year-old man and his two nieces, ages 11 and 16. The caller stated that her brother and her two daughters left Salem around 10 a.m. Sunday to visit Multnomah Falls and had not returned home. The caller stated the family members were not prepared to stay overnight.

Deputies began checking all trailheads in the Columbia River Gorge from Troutdale to Hood River. The Hood River Sheriff’s Office was also notified. At 2:12 a.m., an MCSO deputy located the man’s car at the closed snow gate on E. Larch Mountain Road. Because the three hikers were not prepared to stay overnight, MCSO Search & Rescue was activated for a second major search, (photo 3 and 4). Before SAR members deployed, a Gresham police officer assisting deputies located the missing hikers on the road approximately one mile east of the snow gate. They were cold and hungry, but not injured.

The 31-year-old man told deputies they planned to hike to Multnomah Falls and return to their car at the snow gate. On the way back to the car, they took the wrong trail. When it got dark, they stopped for the night to stay warm and waited until daylight to continue. He also stated that he used a map application on his smartphone for directions to Multnomah Falls. The app sent him to Larch Mountain. This is the third group in two weeks that deputies have helped who have used maps apps for directions to Multnomah and Wahkeena Falls. Search & Rescue coordinators advise against relying on smartphones for directions and urge visitors to research the area prior to leaving home and to use a current paper map if possible.

While spring and summer like weather continues, many trails are still snow covered and have not been cleared or maintained since last fall. Before you leave home, it is suggested that you always carry a first aid kit in your car and bring the Ten Essentials with you on the trail, even if you are only going out for the day.

Ten Essentials for hiking:

• Navigation: map, compass, altimeter, GPS device, personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger
• Headlamp or flashlight: plus, extra batteries
• Sun protection: sunglasses, sun-protective clothes and sunscreen
• First aid: including foot care and insect repellent (as needed)
• Knife: plus, a gear repair kit
• Fire: matches, lighter, tinder and/or stove
• Shelter: carried at all times, (can be a light emergency bivy)
• Extra food: Beyond the minimum expectation
• Extra water: Beyond the minimum expectation
• Extra clothes: Beyond the minimum expectation

We want to thank all of the first responders and many volunteers that helped with these responses:

• Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue
• Clackamas County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue
• Hood River County Sheriff's Office
• Corbett Fire Department
• AMR
• Mountain Wave Communications

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Search & Rescue program is a 100% volunteer organization, comprised of approximately 50 very dedicated, trained volunteers, including both youth and adults. MCSO SAR is recruiting new members. Click here if you would like to learn more about MCSO SAR.

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April 19, 2021

DA Mike Schmidt provides update on April 16, 2021 riot in downtown Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt filed criminal charges against two individuals arrested in connection to the downtown riot on April 16, 2021 that resulted in more than $20,000 in damages.

Matthee-O’Brien is charged with one count of criminal mischief in the first degree and one count of felony riot for conduct allegedly occurring April 16, 2021.

Matthee-O’Brien is also charged with one count of felony riot, one count of disorderly conduct in the second degree and one count of interfering with a peace officer for conduct allegedly occurring January 20, 2021.

It is alleged that on April 16, 2021, law enforcement saw Matthee-O’Brien breaking several large windows—some that belonged to the Oregon Historical Society. When arrested, law enforcement found Matthee-O’Brien in possession of a device known as a “window punch,” a gas mask, several pairs of gloves, knives, and multiple umbrellas. These are items known to be commonly used by rioters.

The damage to the Oregon Historical Society is estimated to be more than $10,000.

Further, it is alleged that on January 20, 2021, law enforcement saw Matthee-O’Brien using a shield to actively block and shove law enforcement officers who were attempting to control a violent crowd outside a federal building located in South Portland. It is alleged that Matthee-O’Brien did so with five or more people and created a grave risk of causing public alarm. When arrested, law enforcement found Matthee-O’Brien in possession of several large rocks, an asp baton and a large shield.

Millar-Griffin is charged with two counts of criminal mischief in the first degree and one count of felony riot.

It is alleged that on April 16, 2021, law enforcement received information that Millar-Griffin broke several windows at the Oregon Historical Society and the First Christian Church.

The damage to the First Christian Church is estimated to be more than $10,000.

Law enforcement referred a criminal case against Sodja alleging one count of assaulting a public safety officer and one count of disorderly conduct in the second degree.

The conduct occurred at Lents Park during the afternoon—not the evening riot in downtown Portland. 

After reviewing the case, the District Attorney’s Office determined there is insufficient evidence to prove the crime of assaulting a public safety officer and declined prosecution.

The other charge was declined in the interest of justice.

No additional information can be released by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office at this time.

A charging document is only an accusation of a crime. Matthee-O’Brien and Millar-Griffin are innocent unless and until proven guilty.

#MCDA#

Media Contact:

Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Email: rent.Weisberg@mcda.us">Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

UPDATED MONDAY APRIL 19, 2021:

On Friday April 9, 2021 and Friday April 16, 2021 all Adults in Custody as well as staff were re-tested for COVID.  Test results received from both dates returned negative.  The once a week testing will contiue for another 1-2 weeks or until the State advises us that the our outbreak has been cleared.  Staff continue to work with Lincoln County Public Health, State of Oregon as well as the facility physician to ensure proper procedures and protocols remain in place. 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

UPDATED SATURDAY APRIL 3, 2021:

On Saturday April 3, 2021 all AIC and staff on duty were re-tested for COVID.  All tests returned as negative.  Staff continue to work with Lincoln County Public Health, State of Oregon as well as the facility physician to ensure proper procedures and protocols are in place. 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

UPDATED THURSDAY APRIL 1, 2021:

On Wednesday March 31, 2021 all AIC were re-tested for COVID, two additional positive cases amongst this population were discovered. In addition, staff were re-tested and two additional cases were discovered.  All Sheriff’s Office staff have previously been offered the COVID vaccine. Staff continue to work with Lincoln County Public Health, State of Oregon as well as the facility physician to ensure proper procedures and protocols are in place.

_______________________________________________________________________   

On Saturday March 27, 2021 Sheriff’s Office Administration was informed that an Adult In Custody (AIC) was indicating signs/symptoms similar to that of COVID, the AIC was immediately tested utilizing a rapid COVID test, the result returned positive.  Based on the housing location of the AIC all AIC were tested and five additional tests were received as positive.  As per established protocol, all AIC who test positive are to receive an additional test, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), to confirm accuracy of the initial test. In addition to AIC, staff were provided the necessary COVID test.

Prior plans had been established which entailed leaving a housing unit vacant should we have one or more positive cases. Because of this established process we were able to quarantine these AIC and they are now being monitored by medical staff multiple times each day. At this point all of the individuals exhibit only minor symptoms which can be adequately treated within the facility.

Jail Medical staff have been in close contact with Lincoln County Public Health and the State of Oregon to ensure all necessary protocols are being followed to include contact tracing.

All AIC throughout Oregon became eligible for the COVID vaccine in February.  Lincoln County has been and will continue to offer the vaccine to all AIC.  To date we have provided at least a single dose vaccine to 43 AIC.  All prior precautionary measures and protocols remain in place for our facility – COVID testing for all AIC who remain in our custody, daily temperature checks for AIC and staff as well as a facial covering requirement and other daily precautions.   

###

Prepared by:

Jamie Russell

Jail Commander

541-265-0701

jrussell@co.lincoln.or.us

VANCOUVER, WA (April 19, 2021) – Community prevention coalitions and law enforcement agencies in Southwest Washington are working together to host drive-thru drug take-back events at seven different locations in Clark, Skamania and Klickitat counties on Saturday, April 24, from 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Community members are encouraged to bring their unused and expired prescriptions and over-the-counter medications for safe, free disposal to any one of the following event sites:

Clark County:

• PeaceHealth Southwest Urgent Care - 33rd & Main (south back lot), Vancouver
• Kaiser Permanente Cascade Park - 12607 SE Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver
• Battle Ground Police Department - 507 SW 1st St., Battle Ground
• Washougal Silver Star Search & Rescue - 1220 A St., Washougal
• Cowlitz Indian Tribal Public Safety Dept. - 31501 NW 31st Ave., Ridge?eld

Skamania County:

• Skamania County Sheriff - 200 Vancouver Ave., Stevenson

Klickitat County:

• Klickitat County Sherriff’s Office - 205 S Columbus Ave. (south doors of the courthouse), Goldendale

All sites will follow appropriate COVID-19 safety guidelines, with participants utilizing the in-vehicle drive-thru process to ensure safety.

Kelley Groen-Sieckmann, Community Prevention Specialist with the Prevent Coalition and ESD 112, said take back events are meant to promote safe medication disposal and reduce opioid and prescription misuse.

“We continue to have an opioid epidemic across the region that is being compounded by the pandemic with added stress, uncertainty and isolation,” she said. “75 percent of opioid misuse starts with people using medication that wasn’t prescribed for them - usually taken from a friend or family member. Simple steps, like properly disposing of medications, can help prevent that misuse.” 

All prescription and over-the-counter medications including pills, liquids and inhalers will be accepted at any of the drive-thru disposal events. Medications not in original containers will also be accepted. Community-based medicine take-back events and disposal sites are the only safe way to dispose of medication. Never flush or throw medicine in the trash, it pollutes the environment and our waterways.

Please note that the Peacehealth Southwest Urgent Care site is the only location accepting sharps and syringes (noncommercial sources only). Additionally, all event sites except the Cowlitz Indian Tribal Public Safety Dept. will collect vape pens and e-cigarettes without batteries for disposal.

Medicine take-back events in Southwest Washington are funded in partnership by Washington State Health Care Authority. For more info about the event or free year-round medication disposal sites, visit bit.ly/DTBE42421.

ABOUT PREVENT COALITION:

Supported by the fiscal agent ESD 112, Prevent Coalition is a community coalition formed in 2003 to increase collaboration, awareness, and reduce youth substance use in Southwest Washington. Prevent also implements initiatives for rural communities across Washington state. As a community mobilizer, we’re creating a culture promoting healthy choices; advocating for policies and regulations that protect, empower and nurture youth; and facilitating positive opportunities for youth to be involved and thrive. For more info, visit www.preventcoalition.org.

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

April 21st, 2021 @ 6:00 p.m.

Oregon Virtual Academy Board Members are hereby notified that a Special Meeting of the Board will be held via teleconference 1-720-707-2699 Ext. 526309737# and via Zoom at

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5033141592

For Immediate Release                                        

Mona Riesterer

Contact:    mona.riesterer@state.or.us
                 (503) 378-2431

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a WebEx meeting on April 22, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Linsay Hale at (503) 378-2427 or via email at linsay.hale@state.or.us

Teleconference Information:

Dial-In: 888-273-3658

Participant Code: 4711910

 ?1. January 28, 2021 Meeting Minutes

Approve minutes

2. Stanley Burdic (DPSST #08185) – Douglas County Sheriff’s Office; Preliminary Application for PSMF Benefits

Presented by Linsay Hale

3.  Next meeting – TBD

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Public Safety Memorial Fund Board members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are no new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, so the state’s death toll remains at 2,460, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 473 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 175,592.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 25,474 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 17,649 doses were administered on April 18 and 7,825 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on April 18.

The 7-day running average is now 35,522 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered a total of 1,333,009 doses of Pfizer, 1,126,590 doses of Moderna and 88,547 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines. As of today, 1,033,175 people have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series. There are 1,600,343 who have had at least one dose.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

To date,1,535,625 doses of Pfizer,1,318,100 doses of Moderna and 215,500 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 243, which is 28 more than yesterday. There are 57 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is nine more than yesterday.

The total number of patients in hospital beds may fluctuate between report times. The numbers do not reflect admissions per day, nor the length of hospital stay. Staffing limitations are not captured in this data and may further limit bed capacity.

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

OHA publishes two data dashboards on COVID-19 vaccination

OHA has launched two new dashboards on its public Tableau site which highlight the state’s progress on COVID-19 vaccination efforts.

The first dashboard, Tracking the COVID-19 Vaccination Effort, shows the percent of people living in Oregon who have been vaccinated at both the state and county level. The dashboard also shows how many people still have to receive another dose of vaccine to be fully vaccinated and how many have completed their vaccination series.

This information is broken down by age group at the state and county level, as well as by race and ethnicity at the state level. Future versions of this dashboard will include race and ethnicity at a regional level. For people who received either a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, the dashboard shows the percentage of people who completed the series by the number of weeks between their first and second doses.

As of today, 37% of Oregonians have received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine, while 13.1% are in progress to be completely vaccinated and 23.9% are fully vaccinated.

Lincoln, Hood River, Benton and Deschutes counties are leading the way in the vaccination effort. Vaccination estimates for these counties show that more than 40% of their population have received at least one dose.

The second dashboard is the Daily COVID-19 Vaccine Update, which is helpful for state planning purposes because it provides a snapshot each morning of vaccine  administration, allocation and delivery data. This information has previously been distributed by email each morning and will continue to be available in Tableau format. Please be aware that COVID-19 vaccine deliveries are commonly re-distributed throughout the state between locations and do not reflect future inventory at each location.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (3), Clackamas (63), Clatsop (4), Columbia (6), Coos (3), Crook (1), Deschutes (44), Douglas (2), Hood River (2), Jackson (15), Jefferson (3), Josephine (3), Lane (65), Lincoln (3), Linn (15), Marion (65), Multnomah (135), Polk (16), Tillamook (1), Wasco (8), Washington (1) and Yamhill (15).

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations? 

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine situation in Oregon, visit our webpage (English?or?Spanish), which has a breakdown of distribution and other information.

# # #

UPDATE: Lane County Sheriff's Office is still attempting to locate shooting suspect Darren Lee Woods, 55.  In addition to the 1998 Dodge 1500 Woods was last seen driving, LCSO has confirmed that Woods is also associated with a white 1985 Pace Arrow motorhome with brown stripes and Oregon license plate MH103752.  Please contact the LCSO at 541-682-4141 if you have information regarding this vehicle.

On Friday, April 16, 2021 at about 10:05pm, the Lane County Sheriff’s Office received multiple reports of gunshots and a gunshot victim from the 29000 block of Kelso Street in Eugene.  The Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of Oregon State and Eugene Police, responded to the location. A victim was found with gunshot wounds, transported to the hospital and is currently in stable condition.The victim is a male 56 years old from Eugene.  The suspect fled the scene prior to law enforcement arriving. The suspect is identified as 55 year old Darren Lee Woods.  The shooting is believed to be related to an ongoing feud between the involved. 

Woods is a white male, about 5’11” tall and 165 pounds with grey hair and green eyes.  He was last seen driving a white 1998 Dodge 1500 bearing Oregon license plate 125MEA.  The truck has a sticker across the back window with black lettering.  The wheels on the truck were described to be chrome and the truck is lifted and “sporty.”  The involved firearm remains outstanding so Woods should be considered armed and dangerous.

If anyone sees Woods please call 911.  If anyone knows any other relevant information, please call the sheriff’s office 541-682-4141.

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Integrated Strategic Communication students at The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University Vancouver are partnering with Clark College at Larch Corrections Center to launch a campaign aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding formerly incarcerated populations. 

“We are excited about this partnership with WSU Vancouver and the possible opportunities that will come for justice-impacted individuals,” said Hanan Al-Zubaidy, director of education at Clark College at Larch Corrections Center.

Larch Corrections Center is home to one of the only programs of its kind that provides incarcerated populations with the opportunity to earn their GED or earn credits through Clark College. “Raising awareness among our local community regarding the social and economic advantages created by educating the incarcerated is one goal of this campaign driven by WSU Vancouver students,” Al-Zubaidy said. 

The Journal of Experimental Criminology last year found that incarcerated people who participated in correctional education programs were 28% less likely to commit new crimes compared to those who did not. This campaign is a chance to reconnect the formerly incarcerated with those in their communities and to re-enter the workforce, while changing the stigmatized narrative about formerly incarcerated populations.   

“WSU Vancouver’s strategic plan includes five key principles that really drive our mission as a university: to advance knowledge through research, extend knowledge through innovation, apply knowledge through local engagement, address the need for social justice in our society and to collaborate with partners that strengthen the community,” said WSU Vancouver Chancellor Mel Netzhammer. “The partnership between our Integrated Strategic Communication students and Larch Corrections Center exemplifies those principles. I’m proud of our student’s work, and I look forward to seeing the community impact of their efforts.”  

WSU Vancouver has established a long-standing partnership with Clark College and is home to one of Clark College’s campuses. Clark College is the current academic facility for Larch Corrections Center, providing incarcerated residents with materials and basic educational programs like GED, additional high school courses and supervisory management courses. 

About WSU Vancouver        

As one of six campuses of the Washington State University system, WSU Vancouver offers big-school resources in a small-school environment. The university provides baccalaureate- and graduate-level education to benefit the people, communities and economy of Southwest Washington. As the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington, WSU Vancouver helps drive economic growth through relationships with local businesses and industries, schools and nonprofit organizations.  

The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication provides students with inspiration, experience and real-world education. It supports WSU’s Drive to 25 and is dedicated to expanding faculty to provide the highest-quality experiences for its students and reinforcing its commitment to producing nationally recognized scholarly research.

About Clark College  

Located in Vancouver’s Central Park and serving approximately 8,000 students per quarter, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. The college currently offers bachelor’s degree programs, career technical education training and transfer degree programs. Clark College offers Running Start dual-credit programs to high school students as well as non-credit customized training for businesses and continuing education for the community. 

# # # 

Vancouver, Wash. – The board of the Clark County Public Facilities District will hold a public meeting 4-5 p.m. Monday, May 3, 2021.

The meeting will be on the Cisco Webex platform. Anyone wishing to attend the meeting can use this link and use the meeting password DVr2NmuyZ83 or call 1.408.418.9388 and use the access code 1876572175##. 

The Public Facilities District was formed in 2002 for the purpose of participating in the study, planning and development of one or more regional centers that would promote tourism, such as the convention center in downtown Vancouver and exhibition hall at the Clark County fairgrounds.

The five-member board is comprised of two people appointed by Clark County and two appointed by the city of Vancouver. Those four appoint the fifth member.

The board typically meets on the first Monday of February, May, August and November. 

The Ridgefield School District is pleased to announce the hiring of Jessica Drake at its newest administrator. Drake will serve as Ridgefield’s Director of Alternative Learning Experiences (ALE) and Business Partnerships. Among other responsibilities, Drake will oversee Ridgefield’s new virtual learning program, Wisdom Ridge Academy in her new role.

Drake is currently an assistant principal at Battle Ground High School. She has been with the school and the Battle Ground Public Schools district since 2008, where she started her career in education as a Family and Consumer Science teacher. In 2019, Drake became the school’s Dean of Students before finally transitioning to her current position as an assistant principal last year. 

“I am thrilled to be joining the team at the Ridgefield School District,” Drake said. “I am excited for many reasons, but I especially look forward to developing relationships with all school and community stakeholders to create and maintain programs that not only provide personalized learning experiences, but also ensure students are prepared for successful futures no matter which career path they choose.” 

Drake has a Bachelor's degree in Hotel and Restaurant Administration with a minor in Business Administration from Washington State University, and a Master’s in Family and Consumer Science Education from Central Washington University. Drake has also earned a Career and Technical Education Director Certificate from the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), and has completed Central Washington University’s Administrator Certificate program. 

RSVP for Wisdom Ridge Academy’s Family Information Night Wednesday, April 21
Those interested in learning more about Wisdom Ridge Academy will have an opportunity to meet Jessica Drake at a Family Information Night on Wednesday, April 21. An RSVP is required to attend. Presentations will begin at 5:45 and 6:30 p.m., with question and answer sessions following each presentation. Families can attend in-person or remotely, but space for the in-person sessions is limited due to 6’ social distancing requirements. 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County middle and high school students are invited to participate in Better You BINGO: A Healthy Coping Challenge for Youth by Youth. The challenge begins Tuesday, April 20 and ends Thursday, May 20.

Better You BINGO is a free online challenge that invites youth ages 12-19 from the community to participate in a self-paced "healthy coping challenge" that introduces them to or leads them to complete activities focused on healthy coping skills for a chance to win a healthy coping themed PRIZE. Some examples of the challenges include reducing screen time, getting outside and doing 10+ minutes of movement.

Better You BINGO instructions and playing cards are online at www.clarkcountystasha.org and on Instagram @ClarkCountySTASHA.

Prevention research consistently shows that youth are less likely to use substances if they have good coping skills, have access to healthy leisure activities, and are in a community that discourages youth substance use.

For more information about Better You BINGO: A Healthy Coping Challenge for Youth by Youth, please contact Alaina Green, program coordinator at 360.831.2090 or een@clark.wa.gov">alaina.green@clark.wa.gov.

STASHA stands for Strong Teens Against Substances, Hazards and Abuse. STASHA Peer Educators are Clark County youth between the ages of 12-19. STASHA educators work to prevent substance abuse among their peers and within their community.

POLK COUNTY, OR. – The Polk County Fire Defense Board is continuing with the backyard burn ban effective April 19th 2021, in all areas of Polk County.

NO BACKYARD BURNING. Due to moderate winds, higher temperatures, & low humidity, backyard burning is NOT allowed April 19th, through Sunday, April 25th. Conditions will be reevaluated on Monday, April 26th.

Be aware of the potential of a rekindle on any piles that you may have previously lit. If you lit piles within the last month, take the time to ensure that they are 100% out.
The burn ban includes yard debris, and agricultural burning is strongly discouraged. Please be familiar with the definition of agricultural burning defined below.
The burning of agricultural waste generated by an operation that uses, or intends to use, land primarily for the purpose of obtaining a profit by raising, harvesting, and selling crops.
Check with your local Fire Department/District for more information. For the most current information, please call the Burn Information Line at (503) 838-2020.
Restrictions include:
?Backyard burning (yard debris, etc.)
?Agricultural burning is strongly discouraged, contact your local fire agency for special situations.
?Land clearing or slash burning.
Federal agencies have independent jurisdiction and authority to regulate recreational fires on their lands so this ban does not apply to the US Forest Service and BLM regulated lands. Adhering to these precautions is still wise even though not enforceable.
Individuals found to be in violation of these requirements during the burn ban may be held liable for the cost of putting out a fire and for any property damage resulting from an illegal fire.
Those living in rural areas are asked to maintain their defensible space by monitoring growth surrounding homes and structures, and to maintain adequate access for firefighting equipment,
Know fire risks and obey fire restrictions, such as campfire bans.
Avoid parking or driving on dry grass as hot vehicles can start a wildfire.
Vehicles are required to have a shovel and fire extinguisher or at least a gallon of water in many areas.
Do not use candles, fireworks, tiki torches, or other open flames in wildland areas.
Remember that sky lanterns are illegal in Oregon airspace.
Dispose of smoking material in deep, sturdy ashtrays.
Make sure butts and ashes are extinguished with water.
Never discard butts on the ground or in vegetation.
For more wildfire prevention information and restrictions, we encourage you to visit Keep Oregon Green at www.keeporegongreen.org and the Oregon Department of Forestry at www.oregon.gov.

Please see attached COVID-19 Vaccine update. 

The following changes in administration will take place in July for the 2021-22 school year. All personnel assignments are subject to final approval by the school board.

Vancouver Public Schools will open two new elementary schools in the fall of 2022. Vancouver Innovation, Technology and Arts Elementary School is under construction at 1111 Fort Vancouver Way. In addition, a neighborhood school will be built at NE 25th Avenue and 88th Street. A planning principal will oversee program development and hiring for both schools during the 2021-22 school year.

VITA and NE 25th Ave. elementary schools

• Planning principal: Jennifer Blechschmidt, current principal at Eisenhower Elementary 

Anderson Elementary School

• Principal: Brent Harrison Bardo—From Harmony Public Schools in Houston, Texas, where he has served as an elementary principal, teacher, intervention specialist and director of academics 
• Associate principal: Denisse Barba—Currently a middle school assistant principal in the North Clackamas School District. Barba was a dual language teacher at Anderson for five years before taking a position in North Clackamas.
• Associate principal: Kevin Coffey—Current dean of students at Anderson Elementary; Coffey will serve as associate principal at both Anderson and Sacajawea elementary schools.

Chinook Elementary School

• Associate principal: Amos (AJ) Brown—Currently an elementary associate principal at Federal Way School District; he previously served in VPS as a math teacher and dean of students at Gaiser Middle School

Eisenhower Elementary School

• Principal: Craig Homnick—Current principal at Lincoln Elementary 

Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School

• Associate principal: Dana Re-Bloom—Currently a teacher on special assignment and administrative intern in Clover Park School District

Lake Shore Elementary School

• Principal: Anna Supplee—Current associate principal at Anderson Elementary, will take the lead at Lake Shore following the resignation of Starlett Stone at the end of the school year.  

Lincoln Elementary School

• Principal: Steve Lindblom–Current principal at Vancouver Flex Academy

Roosevelt Elementary School

• Principal: Jill MacKenzie—Current associate principal at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary

Sacajawea Elementary School

• Associate principal: Kevin Coffey—Current dean of students at Anderson Elementary; will serve as associate principal at both Anderson and Sacajawea elementary schools

Truman Elementary School

• Principal: Lee Gunter—Current associate principal at Truman Elementary
• Associate principal: Connie Hogan—Current associate principal at Anderson and Sacajawea 

Walnut Grove Elementary School

• Principal: Katie Arkoosh—Current principal at Anderson Elementary
• Associate principal: Jody ViDelco—Current principal at Jason Lee Middle School

Gaiser Middle School

• Principal: Esteban Deladillo—Current principal at Walnut Grove Elementary
• Associate principal: Katherine Howard—Currently a middle school associate principal at North Clackamas School District; will take the associate position following the retirement of Sheri Backous

Jason Lee Middle School

• Principal: Megan Vickery—Current principal at Roosevelt Elementary

Vancouver Flex Academy

• Principal: Abby Davis—Current principal at Gaiser Middle School

Lieser Campus

• Associate principal: Kathleen Paradis—Current dean of students at Fort Vancouver High School; will take the associate principal position following the retirement of Anita Chase

Jim Parsley Center

• Executive director for teaching and learning: Kristie Lindholm—Currently the senior director in the Office of School Improvement at Portland Public Schools; named executive director for teaching and learning following the announced retirement of Debra Hale in June
• Director of IT infrastructure and operations: Trevor Dodson—Previously the senior director of IT infrastructure and operations at Lewis and Clark College in Portland (employment approved at the April 13 school board meeting)

NOTE: The Oregon Lottery has our updated logos uploaded below and also in a press kit here: https://www.oregonlottery.org/about/lottery-news/  

April 16, 2021?- Salem, Ore.?– Christmas in … April?

Five lucky winners across Oregon are celebrating Second Chance Lottery wins thanks to their 2020 Holiday Scratch-its.

Prizes ranged from $1,500 to $150,000 depending on the value of the original Scratch-it top prize. Winners included:

• Carrie T. of Florence who won $150,000 playing Holiday Party
• Leeanne R. of Central Point who won $75,000 playing Reindeer Riches
• Eric T. of Springfield who won $50,000 playing Winter Magic
• Cheryl C. of Prospect who won $10,000 playing Deck the Halls
• Christopher Z. of Cave Junction who won $1,500 playing Merry Slothmas

The Second Chance Drawing gives players an additional opportunity to win a top prize on their favorite Scratch-its. Players can register for a MyLottery account where they can enter their non-winning Scratch-its using the Oregon Lottery mobile app, or by entering them manually on the Lottery’s website at https://www.oregonlottery.org/my-lottery/second-chance/

Players can see when the Second Chance drawing will take place, how many entries have been registered for each Scratch it. After the drawing winners are notified of their win.

Draw dates for each game are determined by when the specific Scratch-it is pulled from the market. 

Players who have winning tickets of $50,000 or more, will need to make an appointment to come to the Oregon Lottery office in Salem. Call 503-540-1000 for assistance. The Lottery also offers a drop box at the Lottery office in Salem. Players can use the drop box to submit prize claims and will receive their winnings in the mail once the claim has been processed.  

Lottery officials recommend that you always sign the back of your tickets with each Oregon Lottery game you play, to ensure you can claim any prize you may win. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. 

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $12 billion for economic development, public education, Outdoor School, state parks,?Veteran?Services and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit?www.oregonlottery.org? 

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Shortly before 5:00 a.m. this morning, April 19, 2021, fire crews were dispatched to a report of a commercial fire at the Highland Stillhouse Pub, located at 201 2nd Street in Oregon City that was reported by a passerby. First arriving firefighters reported smoke coming from the building and quickly made entry to search for the fire. Based off smoke conditions and available information, additional units were requested. A fire was subsequently located in a void space and quickly extinguished, while the building was searched to ensure any occupants were out.   

Fire Investigators determined this was an electrical fire that started in one of the restaurant’s restroom facilities and spread to the void space between floors of the building. No injuries were reported, and the building has since been turned over to the owners as the investigation is complete. 

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PORTLAND, Ore. – Sometimes adversity breeds innovation.

That’s exactly what Portland Community College’s Electronic Engineering Technology Program (EET) did in 2020 when classes were forced to go online as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the entire college shifted learning to remote and online platforms, the program didn’t stay idle and hope its students would survive. Instead, faculty proactively secured more than $71,000 in Carl D. Perkins grant funding, which has helped purchase 110 home kits for students to do lab work and maintain hands-on skills. 

Community colleges all over the country have tackled the pandemic with innovation and PCC is no exception. These kits include some of the program’s most-used equipment like the oscilloscope, function generator and digital multimeters, as well as power supplies. Students were only required to buy small and inexpensive items such as five-second timers,  jumper wires, LEDs, resistors, capacitors and toggle buttons to continue their work and complement the kits. 

“Our students have enjoyed working on their projects from home,” said EET faculty chair and project lead Sanda Williams, who added that the effort has opened up the possibility of hybrid classes and online cohorts. “This increased their skills and confidence. We were able to buy test equipment for each student for this past winter term and plan to accommodate more students for spring and summer terms until we are back on the campus.”

The home kit idea was the brainchild of Williams when her students started dropping classes as a result of PCC transitioning to online or remote classes. Despite some early doubts about whether such a project could work, students embraced the concept wholeheartedly and used the equipment responsibly, as well as returned the kits when they were done.

PCC’s EET Program provides an important pipeline of workers for the local industry. Her program produces graduates for firms like Intel, Biotronik, OHSU, Sunset Solar and Cascade Microtech, to name a few. Many of PCC’s graduates have achieved upper-level positions as engineering managers and quality control technicians as result of the training.

One of the current students is Lina Ruvalcaba, who plans to work in the healthcare industry. She said it has been invaluable having the kits at home to continue her training and has allowed her to stay on the path toward earning an Associate of Applied Science Degree with a Biomedical Engineering Technology Option.

“During the last couple of terms we have used a lot of new equipment and learned so much about the components and tools,” said Ruvalcaba, who works part-time to put herself through college. “Remote learning has been a challenge and a learning curve for all of us, but I appreciate that Portland Community College was able to find a way to make not ideal circumstances work out for their students. Even though working remotely has its challenges, it’s been great to have the instructors on your side and always making themselves available to meet after class to explain things. Being able to stay on track towards my degree has made a huge difference.”

EET instructors were instrumental in developing new labs to be used with the take-home equipment, sharing their developments with other instructors and staff. The home kits have allowed students to receive hands-on laboratory experiences in the comfort of their own homes. But they are never alone -- Through Zoom meeting instruction and other electronic communications, instructors help students work through the lab experiments.  

“The students learn more as they must struggle a bit on their own rather than having an instructor standing directly over their shoulder to provide immediate corrections,” said EET instructor Scott Williams. “The students feel a sense of accomplishment as they are able to see and measure the waveforms on the oscilloscope, which were predicted by their calculations.”

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 more than 60,000 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/

FALLS CHURCH, Va. – Portland, Oregon native, and Bureau of Land Management Eastern States wildland firefighter Jamie Schnick is celebrating his 20th year in fire management. As the assistant superintendent of the famed Jackson Hotshots in Jackson, Mississippi, Schnick is bringing his experience and leadership to the front lines for a successful 2021 fire season.

BLM Hotshots are specialized, highly trained wildland firefighting teams skilled in combating fires. They are typically dispatched to the most challenging and dangerous areas of a wildland fire incident. The Jackson Hotshots are a unique team in BLM’s Fire and Aviation Program as the only hotshot crew east of the Mississippi River. Since 1997, the team has responded to incidents from Florida to Alaska and assisted in first responder efforts for natural disasters throughout the southeast.

“The Jackson Hotshots gave me the chance to grow in my career,” said Schnick. “As a team, each fire assignment we accomplish is a learning opportunity.”

The Jackson Hotshots were some of the first wildland firefighters dispatched to several large-scale wildland fire incidents last summer. They were integral in developing safety protocols to minimize COVID-19 transmission in the field – measures that were adopted nationally.

Listen to Schnick share more thoughts on his productive career on the Eastern States “Not Your Ordinary Job” podcast online at www.blm.gov/not-your-ordinary-job-podcast. To learn more about BLM’s Fire and Aviation Program, visit www.blm.gov/programs/fire-and-aviation.

-- BLM --

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The agency’s mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. Diverse activities authorized on these lands generated $111 billion in economic output across the country in fiscal year 2019—more than any other agency in the Department of the Interior. These activities supported more than 498,000 jobs.

The City of Salem's burn ban will end at 0800 Saturday April 24th. Thank you all for complying with the burn ban and keeping our community safe. 

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Based on current weather projections and current conditions the City of Salem has extended the burn ban that was imposed on April 13th through Friday April 23rd. 

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With the extended weather forecast showing higher temperatures, low humidity and moderate winds, the City of Salem is issuing a burn ban on all open burning through April 18, 2021. All outdoor burning, including ceremonial and recreational fires, will be prohibited within the City of Salem. This ban is based on weather conditions and community fire safety needs, and will remain in effect through this week.

The City will reevaluate the forecast this weekend prior to determining burn status for the following week.

Cooking outdoors in approved propane or charcoal barbecue grills is allowed during this total burning ban, but always remember and follow safe grilling practices, and properly dispose of coals in a metal container when finished.

The Burn Ban includes the following open burning situations:

1. Agricultural burning

2. Land clearing or slash burning

3. Recreational fires, including:

    a. Backyard fire pits.

    b. Outdoor fireplaces and portable fireplaces.

4. Ceremonial Fires

Individuals found to be in violation of these requirements during the burn ban may be held liable for the  cost of extinguishment and for any property damage resulting from an illegal fire.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Charter Review Commission at its April 14, 2021, meeting appointed Camas resident Greg Anderson to fill an open seat in district 4, position 3.

The term begins immediately and ends Dec. 31, 2021, at the latest. District 4 is located primarily in the Northeast and Southeast part of the county.

Anderson has been a member of the Camas City Council since 1997. He is a retired business manager and served as an officer in the U.S. Army. He served on the C-Tran Board from 2015 to 2017 and currently is serving a term from 2020 to 2021. He previously was a volunteer on the county’s Solid-Waste Advisory Board. Anderson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business from Arizona State University.

The 15-member Charter Review Commission is tasked with reviewing the county’s home rule charter approved by voters in November 2014. This will be the first review of the county’s charter. Any changes to the charter that the review commission recommends would go to a countywide vote in a general election.

The commission meets 5-7 pm on Wednesdays. Meetings are held virtually on Webex and shown on CVTV channel 23/323 and www.cvtv.org.

Information on submitting public comment to the commission and participating in public comment during a WebEx meeting is on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/county-manager/meetings-agendas-archives.

City crews responded to a sewage overflow on NE 160th Avenue just north of Burnside Street to find a sewer line clogged by grease. They reported to the area around 2 p.m. and cleared the blockage around 6:30 p.m.

The sewage overflowed from a manhole on NE 160th Avenue and traveled around 200 yards, or the length of two football fields, before entering a catch basin and sump. The quantity is estimated at about 1,000 gallons.

The public is advised to heed warning signs posted in the area. 

Most sewage overflows are preventable. Pipes that become blocked with grease, tree roots, wet wipes, and other debris are the most common cause of sewage overflows.  

Environmental Services advises the public to follow these tips to prevent clogs in homes and businesses, and to prevent sewage releases: 

• Never pour grease down drains: Collect grease, oil, and fat in a can and then into the garbage. Grease that is liquid when poured down drains will become solid once in pipes.
• Only flush human waste and toilet paper (wet wipes are NOT flushable); 
• Don’t put anything down storm drains, which are intended for rainfall only. Many of the City’s storm drains feed directly into creeks.

If you experience or see a sewer overflow, call the City of Portland’s 24/7 reporting hotline: 503-823-1700.  

 The Bureau of Environmental Services provides city residents with programs to protect water quality and public health, including wastewater collection and treatment, sewer construction and maintenance, stormwater management, and stream and watershed restoration. @BESPortland.

As promised, attached are photos of the African Serval who was rescued from an earlier housefire in Felida this afternoon. Apologies as the quality of the photos isn't great. As an update, the firefighter who was bit by the cat while fighting the fire on NW 38th Avenue was not seriously injured, and the cat wasn't hurt during the fire. The Clark County Fire Marshal is still determining the fire's cause and damage estimate.  

Clark County Fire District 6 

Dave Schmitke/PIO

Clark County Fire District 6 Firefighters today battled a subborn house fire in the Felida area. Neighbors first saw flames coming from the back of a single story home on NW 38th Avenue. The homeowner was trying to extinguish flames at the rear of the house when first units arrived. The blaze had spread to the attic of the home, making the fire more difficult to fight.

Assisted by firefighters with Vancouver, crews were able to bring the fire under control in 25 minutes. 

In addidtion to four engines, one truck, one squad and one Battalion Chief, animal control was called to the home to manage a 60-70 pound African Cerval, who at this time appears to be unharmed, just a little freaked out. One firefighter was injured after the cat bit his fingers.  Since the fire is out the decision was made to close up the house until animal control and the homeowner can contain the big cat.

I don't have any images of the cat or the fire yet but if I do I'll send in a follow up news release. PIO is not on scene but is monitering. 

On March 8, 2021, NOAA Fisheries initiated the public scoping comment period and issued a Notice of Intent (NoI) to prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) for Western Oregon State Forests Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) in the Federal Register (86 FR 13337). Scoping as an early and open process for identifying the significant issues related to a proposed action and determining the range of issues to be addressed. The comment period was originally scheduled to close on April 7, 2021. In response to requests for an extension, the comment period has been extended until April 21, 2021. 

While the EIS is still in early phases of development, preliminary assessments indicate the HCP may affect anadromous fish populations along the Oregon Coast and in the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, as well as birds, amphibians, and mammals. Public comments at this early stage will help inform alternatives, which may include, but are not limited to: variation in the length of the permit term; adding or removing some of the covered species; the level of take allowed; the level, location, or type of minimization, mitigation, or monitoring provided under the HCP; the scope of covered activities; the location, amount or type of conservation, or similar aspects of the permit conditions.

How to Comment 

Comments may be submitted at http://www.regulations.gov and enter NOAA– NMFS–2021–0019. Click the ‘‘Comment Now!’’ icon, complete the required fields, and enter or attach your comments. The comment period closes on April 21, 2021. 

Information about scoping and the Notice of Intent can be found at: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/action/notice-intent-prepare-environmental-impact-statement-western-oregon-state-forest-habitat. 

A recording of the scoping meeting and copy of the presentation will also be available on the website. Please check the website for updates. 

Sunday, April 18, 2021 – Woodburn, OR – On Saturday, April 17, at approximately 1:30 p.m. Woodburn Police Officers responded to an armed robbery involving a gun in the area of Tulip Ave/Foxglove St. The victim agreed to give the suspect a ride, but during the drive asked the suspect to get out of the car on multiple occasions. The suspect refused to get out of the car and told the victim he had a gun, instructing the victim to continue driving. The victim stopped the vehicle at the intersection of Tulip Ave/Foxglove St. after seeing residents outside and was able to call for help. 

The suspect fled the location on foot after threatening the victim with a gun and stealing multiple personal items. He is described as a heavier set Hispanic male, approximately 30 years old, 5’8 - 5’10, wearing a blue t-shirt, khaki pants and white tennis shoes. Multiple officers checked the area and were unable to locate the suspect.

Woodburn Police are seeking help in identifying the suspect who should be considered armed. The suspect is wanted in connection to Robbery II, Kidnapping II, Coercion and Menacing. Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to please contact the Woodburn Police Department at 503-982-2345.  

###

On Saturday, April 17, 2021 at approximately 11:51 P.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a pedestrian that had been struck on Hwy 101 near mile post Z49.

Preliminary investigation revealed a pedestrian, Quinten Hoptowit (23) of Warm Springs, was laying in the roadway when he was struck by a northbound vehicle.  The vehicle described as a dark color crew cab pickup with a short box, open bed, and inoperative passenger side tail light - left the scene.

Hoptowit sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

OSP was assisted by Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office, Rockaway Beach Fire Department, Rockaway Beach Police Department and ODOT.

If you have any information regarding this incident or the described vehicle OSP requests you call the Oregon State Police Northern Command Center at 1-800-442-0776 or OSP and leave information for Trooper Jace Huseby - case # SP21-100770.

On Saturday, April 17, 2021, at 11:49 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a car crash in the 6600 block of SW River Road south of Hillsboro. When deputies arrived with emergency medical crews, they found a man driving a 1990 Nissan 240SX had gone off the road about 20 feet and crashed into a tree.

The driver, 21-year-old Josue Sanabria of Aloha, was the only person in the car at the time of the crash. Mr. Sanabria was trapped in the car and was pronounced deceased at the scene despite life-saving efforts by the first responders.

The inter-agency Crash Analysis Reconstruction Team responded to help investigate the crash and determined speed was a major factor.

The Crash Analysis Reconstruction Team (CART) is a multi-agency team of specially trained law enforcement officers from the Sheriff’s Office, local police departments and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office. The team investigates and reconstructs traffic crashes that may result in the prosecution of felony assault or manslaughter charges, or involve fatalities. The team also helps diagram crime scenes.

On Friday, April 16, 2021 at approximately 10:30 P.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a vehicle collision on Hwy 95 near milepost 98.

Preliminary investigation revealed a Subaru Tribeca, operated by Heidi Dunn (51) of Spokane Valley, Washington, was northbound passing in a no passing zone and collided with a southbound Toyota Tacoma operated by Hugh Moyes (19) of Battle Mountain, Nevada.

Moyes sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Dunn and a juvenile passenger were transported by air to a hospital.  Five other passengers were transported by ground to a hospital.    

OSP was assisted by Jordan Valley Ambulance, Humbolt County NV. EMS,  Life Flight, and ODOT.  

April 17, 2021

Statement from District Attorney Mike Schmidt on deadly police shooting, riot in downtown Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt released the following statement regarding the April 16, 2021 police involved shooting that resulted in a fatality and the criminal riot that occurred Friday night in downtown Portland.

“We are in the very early stages of a rigorous and professional criminal investigation. An officer’s use of deadly force is likely the most critical and dangerous decision they will make in their career as a public servant. As a community—we are hurt and vulnerable right now. I am sensitive to the community’s concern about yesterday’s deadly police shooting and the calls for answers and reform. Our investigation needs to be methodical and consistent. We will not be rushed in our decisions. All legally admissible evidence must be gathered and reviewed. It is expected that this case will be presented to a grand jury to determine whether the use of deadly force was a legal act of self defense and/or self defense of others. We remain committed to an open and transparent process. Our objective is to seek answers.” 

“The deliberate and criminal actions of individuals rioting in downtown Portland on Friday night significantly endangered life and property. It is unacceptable. This destruction does not align with community values and has no legitimacy. It is harming our city, county and state. There are multiple criminal investigations underway to identify those responsible for last night's criminality. To support these investigations and to further our criminal prosecutions, I am asking business and property owners to review their video security systems and to provide law enforcement with copies of any relevant material. I also want to thank the community members who volunteered their time this morning to help clean up downtown—that is the Portland and Multnomah County I am proud of."

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office will review the criminal cases from Friday night’s riot when they are referred to our office from law enforcement. At this time, no court dates have been set for any of the three individuals arrested by the Portland Police Bureau.

With regard to the deadly police shooting, the interview of the officer who used deadly force is expected to happen within 48 hours of the shooting.

The Portland Police Bureau may release additional information about Friday’s shooting when appropriate.

The criminal investigation into Friday’s deadly police shooting is being conducted by the Portland Police Bureau with the assistance of the East Multnomah County Major Crimes Team.

The East Multnomah County Major Crimes Team is comprised of individuals selected from participating law enforcement agencies. Each jurisdiction has at least two primary team members in addition to several alternate team members approved by the District Attorney’s Office. It is the responsibility of the lead investigative agency to ensure that a comprehensive investigation is conducted and that all police reports are submitted to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office for independent review and prosecution consideration.

No additional information can be released by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office at this time.

#MCDA#

Media Contact:

Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

Email: rent.Weisberg@mcda.us">Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

GRESHAM, Ore. –Gresham City Council has selected three finalists for the position of City Manager and is seeking community input and involvement in next steps. On Wednesday, April 21, from 5:30-7:30 p.m., Mayor Travis Stovall will host a virtual community forum to introduce the finalists: Jamal Fox, Patrick Quinton and Nina Vetter.

Following the first round of interviews for the City Manager position earlier in 2021, City Council re-opened the recruitment process, which remains open until filled. In total, 37 candidates that applied by March 22 were considered for this phase of the process.

Residents are invited to submit questions in advance to Communications@GreshamOregon.gov by noon, Monday, April 19. Questions previously submitted are on file and will be considered for these interviews. Live public comment will not be taken. After the forum, attendees will have the opportunity to provide feedback about the candidates through an online survey by noon, Thursday, April 22. Feedback will be shared with Council for their consideration.

The final three candidates have participated in individual interviews with the City’s executive recruiter as well as semi-finalist interviews with Council. The finalists will also interview with City leadership and employees. City Council will consider staff and community feedback during a finalist interview on April 23 and will determine the next steps in the process at that time. Standard background and reference checks will be conducted as necessary before any hiring announcement is made.

The community participated in the recruitment early on through focus groups and an online survey, providing insights into the skills needed for the next City Manager, as well as key priorities. The City Manager serves as the chief executive officer of the organization, overseeing staff and departments and carrying out the direction of City Council.

The Zoom link to join the forum will be posted at GreshamOregon.gov/Events.

Meet the finalists

• Jamal Fox has served as the City Administrator of Camas, Washington, since 2020. He began his public sector leadership career in 2013 when he was elected as a Representative for District 2 in the City of Greensboro, North Carolina. He then transitioned to the City of Portland, Oregon, first as a Property and Business Development Manager, and then as the Deputy Chief of Staff in the Office of the Mayor. Jamal received his Master of Public Administration degree from Capella University and his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from North Carolina A&T State University.
• Patrick Quinton has been the CEO/Co-Founder of Dweller Inc., a housing development company focused on building and owning accessory dwelling units, since 2017. Patrick’s consulting and start-up career began in 1990, first with ShoreBank Corporation, an internationally recognized leader in community revitalization, and then with Textron Financial Corporation’s health care finance division. From 2008 to 2016, Patrick served Prosper Portland, formerly Portland Development Commission. He was hired as a Senior Development Manager and progressed to the roles of Business and Industry Division Manager and Executive Director within that time. Patrick received his Master of Arts in Public Policy from the University of Chicago and his Bachelor of Arts in Government from Dartmouth College.
• Nina Vetter has served as the Chief Administrative Officer/District Manager of the Pueblo West Metropolitan District, Colorado, since 2019. Nina’s local government career began in 2013 when she was hired by the City of Colorado Springs, Colorado as a Senior Budget Management Analyst, and she quickly progressed to the role of Strategy, Performance and Contract Compliance Manager. Nina received her Master of Public Administration degree from Northern Illinois University and her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from George Washington University.

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are three new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 2,460 the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 888 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 174,501.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 44,308 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 27,728 doses were administered on Apr.16 and 16,580 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Apr.16.

The 7-day running average is now 37,507 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered a total of 1,292,612 first and second doses of Pfizer, 1,109,671 first and second doses of Moderna and 88,104 single doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

To date, 1,535,625 doses of Pfizer, 1,318,100 doses of Moderna and 215,000 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 200, which is one more than yesterday. There are 47 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is five fewer than yesterday.

The total number of patients in hospital beds may fluctuate between report times. The numbers do not reflect admissions per day, nor the length of hospital stay. Staffing limitations are not captured in this data and may further limit bed capacity.

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Cases and Deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (6), Benton (7), Clackamas (96), Clatsop (8), Columbia (7), Coos (2), Crook (10), Curry (2), Deschutes (94), Douglas (16), Gilliam (1), Grant (2), Harney (1), Jackson (58), Jefferson (6), Josephine (13), Klamath (45), Lane (75), Lincoln (5), Linn (37), Malheur (2), Marion (79), Morrow (1), Multnomah (161), Polk (12), Tillamook (4), Umatilla (15), Wasco (3), Washington (103), Yamhill (17).

Oregon’s 2458th COVID-19 death is a 66-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Mar. 26 and died on Apr. 15 at Legacy Mt Hood Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2459th COVID-19 death is a 68-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Apr. 13 and died on Apr. 15 at Legacy Mt Hood Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2460th COVID-19 death is a 58-year-old man in Yamhill County who tested positive on Feb. 19 and died on Apr. 7 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

1 This includes cases confirmed by diagnostic testing and presumptive cases. Presumptive cases are those without a positive diagnostic test who present COVID-19-like symptoms and had close contact with a confirmed case. County of residence for cases may change as new information becomes available. If changes occur, we will update our counts accordingly.

2 For additional details on individuals who have died from COVID-19 in Oregon, please refer to our press releases

ELRs received 04/16/2021

Cumulative ELRs