Gresham, ore.-The adult male shot this morning on the westbound MAX platform at East Burnside St. and 162nd Ave. has died. The case is being investigated by the East County Major Crimes Team as a homicide.

Officers responded to reports of the shooting just after 5:00 a.m. and quickly located the victim. He was rushed to an area hospital and later died. No identifying information is being released at this time, pending an autopsy and family notification.

The suspected shooter fled prior to police arrival and is only described at this time as a man in his late teens to early twenties.

Detectives are working to determine what led to the shooting and if there was any identifiable connection between the two parties.

No further information is available at this time.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: July 1, 2022

Salem, Ore. — Detectives from the Salem Police Department Strategic Investigations Unit (SIU) have brought charges against Phillip Thomas of Salem. 

Thomas was arrested, today, July 1, 2022, as part of an extensive drug investigation involving the distribution of polydrug tablets and other drugs.

The 30-year-old was found in possession of the following:

• 3,000 polydrug tablets, more commonly known as M30 pills containing fentanyl 
• Eight ounces of methamphetamine
• Three ounces of heroin
• A Glock 23 firearm with an extended magazine with ammunition loaded
• A .25 caliber automatic handgun
• Approximately $164,000 in cash

Thomas, who is currently lodged at the Marion County Jail on outstanding warrants in other unrelated cases, was arrested on the following charges:

• Possession and delivery of a controlled substance
• Possession of heroin
• Attempted delivery of heroin
• Possession of methamphetamine
• Attempted delivery of methamphetamine
• Possession of restricted weapon by a felon, three counts

Arraignment proceedings for Thomas will occur Tuesday, July 5, and as such, all case inquiries should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

The investigation which led to Thomas’ arrest was the result of the Salem Police specialty unit’s involvement in the Safe Streets Task Force, a partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other governmental agencies. The task force brings increased focus and federal resources to address narcotics trafficking and violent crime in Salem.

Since the first of the year, Safe Streets Task Force investigations have led to the seizure of nearly 20,000 fentanyl-laced tablets and more than 100 firearms in our community.

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July 1, 2022

Media contacts:

Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8843,ica.J.Heartquist@dhsoha.state.or.us">Erica.J.Heartquist@dhsoha.state.or.us

Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139,Jonathan.N.Modie@dhsoha.state.or.us

Recreational use advisory issued for areas around Eagle Point in Upper Klamath Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for areas around Eagle Point in Upper Klamath Lake due to the presence of a cyanobacteria bloom and cyanotoxins above recreational use values for human exposure. The lake is in Klamath County.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the lake where blooms are, as the major risk of exposure is from ingesting water. These toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, if you have skin sensitivities you may get a puffy red rash.

Due to very hot weather between the time samples were collected and when OHA received results, people should be aware that the bloom and associated toxins may have spread beyond the area around Eagle Point. OHA recommends that people keep an eye out for visible signs of bloom in other areas of the lake and stay out of the water in locations with visible scum.

People are encouraged to visit Upper Klamath Lake and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. If you do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area you are advised to use an alternative water source.

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and levels of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Be aware that dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention. Dogs can experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite and more. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms after swimming, seek veterinary treatment as quickly as possible.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks. Fat, skin and organs should be removed before cooking or freezing. Toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at971-673-0482. Learn more here.

PORTLAND, Ore. – The 142nd Wing out of Portland Air National Guard Base, Portland, Oregon will conduct Independence Day flyovers for ceremonies and parades at locations throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington.

142nd Wing Commander, Colonel Todd Hofford, says the Wing is grateful to be able to support patriotic holidays such as these. “There's no greater honor for us to salute this great nation on its day of independence than to be present, visible, and heard with the air superiority of the F-15 Eagle. The 142nd Wing and your hometown Air Force is proud to serve and protect all of our communities in the Pacific Northwest.”

F-15 Eagle fighter jets are scheduled to conduct flyovers at the following community locations at, or around, the designated times on Monday, July 4, 2022.

10:00 a.m. Lake Oswego, Ore.

10:07 a.m. Turner, Ore.

10:10 a.m. Monmouth, Ore.

10:35 a.m. Neskowin, Ore.

10:40 a.m. Rockaway Beach, Ore.

10:50 a.m. Clatskanie, Ore.

11:00 a.m. Camas, Wash.

11:06 a.m. Ridgefield, Wash.

All passes will be approximately 1,000 feet above ground level and about 400 mph airspeed. Flights could be cancelled or times changed due to inclement weather or operational contingencies.

These flights also double as valuable planning and flight training for Oregon Air National Guard pilots who serve Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.

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About the 142nd Wing

The Portland Air National Guard Base employs 1,400 Airmen who provide an economic impact of nearly $130 million to the region. The 142nd Wing defends our homeland with F-15 Eagle fighter jets, guarding the Pacific Northwest skies from northern California to the Canadian border as part of Air Combat Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). Their mission is to provide unequaled, mission-ready units to sustain combat aerospace superiority and peacetime tasking any time, any place in service to our nation, state and community.

Photo Caption:

An Oregon Air National Guard F-15 Eagle, assigned to the 142nd Fighter Wing, takes off from Nellis Air Force, Nev., on an afternoon sortie, June 8, 2017. Over 120 Oregon Air Guardsmen are supporting the Weapons Instructor Course during their three-week duty assignment. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. John Hughel, 142nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs)

Vancouver, Wash. – With summer in full swing, many residents will visit Klineline Pond at Salmon Creek Regional Park to beat the heat.  However, this year Klineline Pond will not have lifeguards on duty.

Similar to other agencies with lifeguards, the nationwide lifeguard shortage has struck Clark County Public Works this season. “We’ve been unable to replace most of the staff we’ve lost from the last few seasons,” according to program coordinator Eric Christensen. “Turnover and attrition have put us in a position where we are unable to provide the staff needed to safely provide water surveillance and rescue services.”

Without lifeguards at Klineline, park users are urged to follow basic water safety at all times. Parents should be particularly vigilant watching children near the water since drownings can happen swiftly and silently. Additionally, Clark County Code prohibits adults from leaving children unaccompanied in or near a lake, pond or other waterway.

While lifeguards will not be present, park users will still be able to borrow a life jacket from the loaner station at Klineline Pond. Life jackets can prevent tragedies. A properly fitted life jacket should be snug, but comfortable. When lifting the shoulders of the jacket, the child’s chin and ears should not slip through.

More information on summer swimming and water safety is available on the county’s website.

TUALATIN, OR – The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities is thrilled to welcome five new Board of Trustees to its membership. Each college and university embarked on an extensive process – involving input and deliberation from a wide range of constituents and stakeholders – allowing them to choose the best leader for each of their unique institutions. These dedicated higher education professionals bring decades of experience, a long-standing commitment to the liberal arts, and dynamic leadership skills to each of their distinct institutions.

The Alliance is grateful to add their immense knowledge and passion to the Board of Trustees, as we continue to advocate for, represent, and foster collaboration between the needs and expertise of member institutions, industry leaders, and government.

Corban University, Acting President Tom Cornman

Dr. Tom Cornman came to Corban in 2019 after serving in previous roles as Vice President and Dean of the Undergraduate School at Moody Bible Institute (2001–2009), Vice President for Academics and Chief Academic Officer at Cedarville University (2009–2015), and Senior Vice President for Academic Administration and Dean of Trinity College and Graduate School at Trinity International University (2015–2019).

Lewis & Clark College, President Robin Holmes-Sullivan

A respected higher education leader with three decades of experience at universities and colleges in Oregon and California, Holmes-Sullivan was previously the vice president for student life and dean of students at Lewis & Clark and has been credited for her pivotal role during the COVID pandemic of devising creative approaches that helped keep students safe and progressing toward their degrees.

Multnomah University, President Eric Anthony Joseph

Dr. Joseph has over three decades of experience in higher education and Christian ministry and has served as a voice of wisdom to university leaders and U.S. Presidents alike. His work as a consultant spans political affiliations, Christian denominations, and university landscapes. He is the founder CEO of Eric Anthony Joseph (EAJ) Ministries and Consulting Enterprise, LLC. Dr. Joseph’s faith-based and community engagement initiatives have made a lasting impact across the nation.

Pacific University, President Jenny Coyle

Previously dean of the Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University, Dr. Coyle earned her bachelor of vision science in 1990, doctor of optometry in 1993, and master of science in vision science in 2000, all from Pacific. She also completed a residency in contact lenses in 1993-1994 at Pacific and taught in the College of Optometry starting in 1994. She served as associate dean from 2006 to 2008 and as dean from 2008 to 2019.

University of Portland, President Robert Kelly

Dr. Kelly holds a PhD in Philosophy, Education Policy, Planning and Administration from the University of Maryland; a master’s degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from the University of Vermont; and a bachelor’s degree in Arts and Political Science from Loyola University Maryland. The Pacific Northwest is already familiar territory for Kelly after having served as Vice President for Student Development and adjunct professor of Education at Seattle University.

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The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (“The Alliance”) is comprised of 13 private, nonprofit, independent colleges and universities in the state of Oregon. These institutions deliver high-quality experiential learning with high-impact teaching strategies. The Alliance is the collective voice of Oregon’s independent, nonprofit higher education sector. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org.

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Clackamas Fire’s 23-person hand crew, Crew 30, conducted a search-and-rescue operation to locate a missing camper at the Shellrock Lake Trailhead in the Mt. Hood National Forest.

At around 11:45 a.m. on Monday, June 27, 2022, a 66-year-old man left his campsite at Shellrock Lake to use the restroom. Once the missing camper’s son noticed his father had not returned and was not answering his shouts, he left the campsite in search of help. The son approached Crew 30, near Lake Harriet, working in the field at 12:20 p.m. The Crew 30 supervisor and a short squad followed the son up to the Shellrock Lake Trailhead and hiked into the campground with Basic Life Support, a backboard, and excess water. The short squad reached their campsite at 1:05 p.m. and began conducting a grid search on the eastern side of the lake, away from the campsite. After being initially unsuccessful on their search, the Crew 30 supervisor had the remainder of the crew en route to the Shellrock Lake campsite to join in the search efforts. 

At 1:54 p.m., Crew 30 made contact to Columbia Dispatch to request search-and-rescue with air support and Advanced Life Support. Once the remaining Crew 30 arrived, they began another grid search along the southwest to northwest edge of Shellrock Lake. At 2:08 p.m., nearby adjoining crew supervisor from Devils Ridge copied communications and was en route from Ripplebrook Campground area to join the search efforts. Crew 30 completed the western grid search at 2:40 p.m.

Shortly after at 2:45 p.m., the Devils Ridge supervisor made contact that the missing camper had been located on the edge of Forest Road 5830, about three miles southeast of the Shellrock Lake Trailhead, and was in good health. 

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TIP is recruiting for people who are looking for an opportunity make a difference in our community. 

A Summer Training Academy is being held to show future volunteers how to respond when First Responders request TIP Volunteers to scenes of sudden or unexpected deaths. You will learn how to provide emotional and practical support to families, friends, witnesses and victims. The training begins August 3rd.
To learn more go to tipnw.org or learn more call 503-940-7997

The City of Vancouver is being recognized by the State of Washington for outstanding performance at two wastewater treatment facilities. Vancouver’s Westside facility and Marine Park eastside facility are receiving this Department of Ecology (DOE) “Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance” award for 2021. 

The DOE monitors the effectiveness of each wastewater treatment facility around the state in meeting mandated permit conditions. Only about 40% of Washington’s treatment systems earn the top-performing status each year. Out of approximately 300 wastewater treatment plants in Washington, both of Vancouver’s facilities received awards.

“Receiving these awards for Vancouver’s two wastewater treatment facilities shows the City’s commitment to a livable community and healthy Columbia River,” said Eric Schadler, Program Manager for Wastewater Collections and Treatment with Vancouver’s Public Works Department. “The recognition demonstrates workers and leaders’ diligence to ensure perfect records for monitoring, reporting and maintaining continuous compliance with treatment plant operations.”

The recipients of these awards must have perfect records for waste water monitoring and analysis, and for filing reports on time. Treatment facility staff members were praised for efficient processes, diligence, skill and teamwork. This is the second consecutive year Vancouver’s Westside facility is receiving this award. 

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(Salem) – Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) invites Oregonians to apply to serve on a Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) that will update administrative rules governing vocational rehabilitation services.  

Vocational Rehabilitation is a program within the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). VR provides a wide variety of employment services to people with disabilities to get and keep jobs that match their skills, interests and abilities. VR also serves businesses to find ready-to-work applicants with a wide range of skills and abilities and to access work incentive programs that can help businesses save money.  

The Rules Advisory Committee will advise VR on how its rules affect people with disabilities who want to seek, maintain employment and advance in their careers. It will also consider how the rules contribute to equity. VR prioritizes applications from individuals who have experienced barriers to employment related to a disability or know about employment and persons with disabilities. 

More information on the workgroup and how to apply to participate is provided below. 

Committee scope of work 

The VR Rules Advisory Committee gives feedback and recommendations on administrative rules that govern vocational rehabilitation services. Committee members will discuss: 

• Are the rules clear and understandable? 
• What impact will the rules have on Vocational Rehabilitation clients? 
• Rule impact on business, particularly small businesses.  
• Rule impact on racial equity.  

Timeline and commitment 

The VR Rules Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on the fourth Monday of each month from 3 to 4 p.m. The committee meets once a month, for an hour. The meeting might be extended depending on the work to be done. Committee members can anticipate spending one to two hours before the meeting to read and review proposed rules. 

How to apply 

Are you interested in being on Vocational Rehabilitation Rules Advisory Committee? You can apply by: 

• Completing this short application electronically  
• Call or email Robin Brandt for assistance at 503-507-5226 or obin.l.brandt@dhsoha.state.or.us">robin.l.brandt@dhsoha.state.or.us.  

Applications are accepted year-round.  

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About Vocational Rehabilitation: ODHS Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) assists individuals with disabilities to get and keep a job or advance in their career that matches their skills, interests, and abilities. VR staff work in partnership with the community and businesses to provide services that are individualized to help each eligible person receive services that are essential to their employment success 

SALEM, Ore. – The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee will meet virtually Friday, July 8 at 2 p.m. Items on the committee’s agenda include:

• Formulating testimony for the July 20 Board of Forestry meeting

This meeting is open to the public. The Zoom log-in is https://odf.zoom.us/j/91982691451. The meeting agenda with links to reference materials will be posted on the department’s website.

Public comment is scheduled at the beginning of the meeting. To submit written comment, email ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov. Written comment sent at least 48 hours before the meeting will give the FTLAC time to review and consider information. Comment submitted after that window of time will be sent to the FTLAC after the meeting, entered into the record and posted online. Comment is not accepted after the meeting concludes.

The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee is comprised of seven county commissioners representing 15 Oregon counties where state forestlands are located. The FTLAC is a statutorily established committee that advises the Board of Forestry on matters related to forestland managed by ODF.

Questions about accessibility or special accommodations can be directed to the Oregon Department of Forestry at least 72 hours prior to the meeting at 503-945-7200.

Seaside, Ore. – July 1, 2022 – The City of Seaside wishes everyone a wonderful Independence Day and we encourage all to enjoy the holiday weekend safely. As one of the most popular destinations for July 4^th festivities and fireworks, the City wants to ensure a good experience and lifelong memories for our community and visitors alike. Here are five tips to keep in mind. 

Use Legal Oregon Fireworks Only and respect the fireworks-free zones for families near the Turnaround.  Illegal fireworks explode, behave in an uncontrollable and unpredictable manner, eject balls of fire, or travel more than six feet on the ground or one foot into the air.

Share The Beach and keep your area safe. No tents on the beach, avoid digging large fire pits (nothing larger than three feet in length, width or depth), and pallets are not allowed in any circumstance as they litter the sand with hidden nails and other sharp metal objects. Please keep fires at least 50 feet from the beach grass and do not start fires in drift wood.

Stash Your Trash. Use the public garbage receptacles posted at entry points to the beach along the Promenade. All are welcome to join group beach cleanup efforts on July 5th! 

Traffic Can Be Tricky. Consider parking in designated spots on the east side of the Necanicum River to help minimize traffic congestion following the fireworks show.

Be Responsible. Police, fire, and city officials work around the clock to keep services in town running as smooth as possible with the large numbers of holiday visitors. If you need assistance with a non-emergency or want to report something, don’t hesitate to contact authorities at (503) 738-6311. If you see something, please say something. 

On behalf of Seaside’s City Council and public safety officials, Seaside thanks you for spending Independence Day with us.

end of release

Lane County Sheriff’s Deputies received information of the illegal manufacture of numerous firearms and firearm parts at a residence in the 3600blk of Ambleside Dr. in Springfield.  Upon service of the warrant, deputies seized over 60 fully assembled firearms, dozens of homemade firearm suppressors, and enough various parts to assemble as many as a hundred more firearms.  Only five of the firearms seized had serial numbers and two of those firearms were reported as stolen.  Firearms that are assembled without serial numbered components are often referred to as “ghost guns”.  Several different illicit drugs were located at the residence including cocaine, methamphetamine, and pills suspected to be fentanyl.  The quantities of suspected fentanyl and methamphetamine are considered “commercial amounts”, not just personal consumption quantities.  Additionally found at the location was equipment used to create the firearm parts including milling machines, 3D-printers and a large laser engraving machine. 

38 year old Andrew William Rogers was taken into custody. Rogers is a convicted felon.  He was lodged at the Lane County Jail on charges including Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Criminal trespass 2, Criminal Mischief 2, and Theft II.  The case remains under consideration by the Lane County District Attorney’s Office.

Portland, OR — July 1, 2022 — For centuries, beeswax and Chinese porcelain have washed ashore on Nehalem Spit, on the north Oregon Coast. After years of research in archives around the world in combination with archaeological evidence, scholars were able to point to the Santo Cristo de Burgos, a seventeenth-century Manila galleon owned by the kingdom of Spain, as the mysterious vessel commonly known today as the “Beeswax Wreck.” On June 16, National Geographic announced that state officials had confirmed the recovery of timbers from the Santo Cristo de Burgos near Manzanita. In summer 2018, the Oregon Historical Society’s (OHS) scholarly journal, the Oregon Historical Quarterly (OHQ), published a ground-breaking special issue on this research, a powerful combination of archaeological and archival evidence solving this centuries-old mystery. In light of the recent discovery of remains from the wreck, OHS has recently made this special issue of OHQ, “Oregon’s Manila Galleon,” available for free online.

“Our understanding of the history of the Beeswax Wreck is because of the knowledge and scholarship shared by dedicated individuals from across disciplines and centuries; everything from Native oral tradition to archival research to maritime archaeology has brought new information to the public about one of Oregon’s most fascinating mysteries,” said Oregon Historical Quarterly Editor Eliza E. Canty-Jones. “With this exciting discovery of timbers from the ship itself, OHS is proud to make this scholarship accessible to all to provide a more complete narrative of this fascinating piece of Oregon history.”

Stories of a very large shipwreck began circulating during the earliest days of Euro- American presence in the Pacific Northwest, as fur traders and explorers learned from Native people that a large ship had long ago wrecked on Nehalem Spit, with survivors and cargo that included beeswax. The stories, shrouded by speculation and often contradictory Euro-American folklore, captivated treasure-hunters who searched for a century and a half on nearby Neahkahnie Mountain and the adjacent beaches. 

The archaeologist-led team of the Beeswax Wreck Project used geology, archaeology, and porcelain analysis, combined with documentation from Spanish archives, to pinpoint the ship’s likely identity. Beeswax stamped with Spanish shippers’ marks confirmed the wreck’s origin, and patterns on Chinese porcelain sherds allowed researchers to narrow the date range. 

The Spanish Manila galleon trade was the first global network, and close to 300 galleons left the Philippines for Acapulco carrying Asian goods during its 250-year span. The Project determined that the Beeswax Wreck was one of two galleons that vanished without a trace: the Santo Cristo de Burgos, which sailed in 1693, or the San Francisco Xavier, which left Manila in 1705. Mapping the location of beeswax deposits allowed Project members to assert with confidence that the ship almost certainly wrecked before the 1700 Cascadia earthquake and tsunami.

Cameron La Follette and her team of archivists then undertook wide-ranging research in the archives of Spain, the Philippines, and Mexico to locate all available information about the Santo Cristo de Burgos of 1693. They discovered the history of the ship’s Captain, Don Bernardo Iñiguez del Bayo; a complete crew and passenger list; and highly important facts about the cargo. Researchers now know that the Santo Cristo de Burgos — which was built at the Solsogón shipyard on Bagato Island in the Philippines — was carrying 2.5 tons of liquid mercury. Public reports at this time do not indicate whether mercury testing has been completed on the recovered timbers. 

After many years of work to solve this multi-century mystery, La Follette’s research team and the Beeswax Wreck Project group published their findings in this special issue of the Oregon Historical Quarterly. La Follette is executive director of Oregon Coast Alliance and lead author on the special issue. By day she advocates for coastal conservation, and by night she writes poetry, which is archived at the University of Oregon’s Special Collections and University Archives. 

The Oregon Historical Quarterly (OHQ) is a peer-reviewed public history journal published by the Oregon Historical Society that brings history about Oregon and the Pacific Northwest to both scholars and general readers. OHQ is one of the largest state historical society journals in the United States and is a recognized and respected source for the history of the Pacific Northwest region. 

The Summer 2018 issue of the Oregon Historical Quarterly is now available to read for free online, and print copies are also available for purchase in the Oregon Historical Society Museum Store for $10. A subscription to OHQ is a benefit of Oregon Historical Society membership. 

About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than a century, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms & website (www.ohs.org), educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and rich as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view. 

UPDATE: Photo of suspect

The booking photo of Andres Carrera-Garcia is being released due to the concern of unidentified victims and in the hope the photo will help families determine if their child had unsupervised contact with Carrera-Garcia. 

OSP detectives believe it is possible there are additional victims that have yet to be identified. If your child had unsupervised contact with Andres Carrera-Garcia please contact OSP Dispatch at (800)422-0776 or OSP (677) from your mobile phone. Reference case number SP22-026887.

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On Wednesday, June 29, 2022, Oregon State Police Detectives executed a search warrant at a residence in Crooked River Ranch in Jefferson County related to an investigation into Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material. OSP was assisted by members of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and the Redmond Police Department. 

Andres Carrera-Garcia (30) of Terrebonne, was found in possession of hundreds of images of child sexual abuse material, which were downloaded from the internet. During Garcia’s interview with law enforcement, he admitted to sexually molesting a child, who was 2 years old at the time, while babysitting him at his residence in Redmond, Oregon, in late 2020 and early 2021. Digital evidence was located supporting his admissions. 

Garcia was arrested for Sodomy I, Sodomy II, Sodomy III, Sexual Abuse I, Sexual Abuse III, Contributing to the Sexual Delinquency of a Minor, Sexual Misconduct, Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse I, Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse II, Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse III. He was lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail. Additional charges are pending in Jefferson County for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material. 

OSP detectives believe it is possible there are additional victims that have yet to be identified. If your child had unsupervised contact with Andres Carrera-Garcia please contact OSP Dispatch at (800)422-0776 or OSP (677) from your mobile phone. Reference case number SP22-026887.

Vancouver, Wash.—With the Fourth of July approaching, Vancouver Fire Marshal Heidi Scarpelli and Fire Chief Brennan Blue would like to remind residents that it is illegal to use, possess or sell fireworks of any kind within the Vancouver city limits.

The city’s ban is on all fireworks, including Class C “safe and sane” fireworks like sparklers, fountains, ground-spinning fireworks and smokeballs. It is also illegal to buy fireworks elsewhere and then transport them into the city. 

Violators may be cited, with the minimum fine starting at $500. This Fourth of July weekend, please call 360-597-7888 to report the illegal use of fireworks. Help first responders prioritize preserving lives and property by only calling 911 to report if you witness or see something on fire or if there is a medical or life-threatening emergency.

"Public safety agencies spend an extraordinary amount of resources responding to fireworks-related incidents, which can have a negative effect on the response time for other life-threatening emergency calls for service," said Scarpelli. “Compounding the problem is the very high risk for wildfires right now, which are easily sparked by fireworks as the devastating Eagle Creek Fire in the Columbia River Gorge proved in 2017.”

Fireworks laws vary throughout Clark County. Visit https://clark.wa.gov/code-administration/fireworks to view an interactive map of current fireworks laws by location.

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SALEM, OR – The Oregon Department of State Lands is seeking public comment on rulemaking that would establish distinct administrative rules for communication site facility leases.

The Department manages leases for communication site facilities located on school lands – lands owned by the people of Oregon that generate revenue for the state’s Common School Fund. Communication site leases allow entities to place communication facilities on school lands. These facilities support wireless cellular service, internet service, emergency communications, cable and radio broadcast, and local radio users.

Currently, communication site leases are authorized through the Department’s special use administrative rules, OAR 141-125. The proposed rulemaking would create a new set of rules, OAR 141-126, to address the unique nature of communication site lessees and sub-lessees, while removing management of communication sites from OAR 141-125.

The rule change would enable DSL to manage communication site leases more efficiently, while updating rates and fees to be consistent with market rates. The rules include an updated lease rate and fee structure, developed based on communications site leases managed by other western states and the Bureau of Land Management. A rule advisory committee comprised of industry and tribal representatives, as well as Common School Fund beneficiaries, evaluated the proposed rates and fees and determined they were consistent with industry standards.

A draft of the rule change is available on the DSL website.

Comment on the Proposed Rulemaking

Feedback on the proposed rules can be provided during a remote public meeting on July 21 from 5:30 – 7 p.m. The meeting will begin with a 30-minute information session, followed by an hour-long public hearing. Meeting links and call-in information are on the DSL website.

Written comments may also be submitted by online form, emailed to ules@dsl.oregon.gov">dsl.rules@dsl.oregon.gov, or mailed to DSL at 775 Summer Street NE, Suite 100, Salem, OR 97301.

The comment deadline is July 31, 2022 at 11:59 p.m.

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http://www.oregon.gov/dsl

SALEM, Ore. – July 1, 2022 – Effective today, Oregon’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is officially operating as the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. A result of House Bill (HB) 2927, passed in 2021, this transition establishes OEM as a stand-alone cabinet-level department reporting directly to the governor. The agency previously served as a division of the Oregon Military Department since its founding in 1981.

“For our communities, for our state, and for our economies to continue to thrive, Oregon must be resilient and ready to recover from natural disasters,” said Oregon Governor Kate Brown. “By prioritizing emergency management, we are ensuring that Oregon is better prepared and ready for such events. Standing up the Oregon Department of Emergency Management will strengthen coordination and response between local, tribal, state and federal jurisdictions and communities, helping to save lives, protect our critical infrastructure and prepare Oregon communities across the state before the next catastrophic event occurs.”

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management will operate under the familiar acronym of OEM – Oregon Emergency Management – to continue building on the agency’s credibility and recognition. A rebranded logo prominently features the outline of the state to better represent all communities it serves. 

“The disasters of the last few years brought our agency – and emergency management as a whole – to the forefront in a way none of us could have anticipated,” said Oregon Department of Emergency Management Director Andrew Phelps. “The 2021 legislative session clearly demonstrated support from Governor Brown and the legislature, especially Representative Paul Evans who was a chief sponsor of the legislation, of Oregon Emergency Management and the work we do. This establishment better positions our organization to prioritize risk reduction and mitigation efforts while maintaining local support statewide for managing the consequences of disasters.”

Becoming a stand-alone department coincides with unprecedented growth in state-level emergency management. Since the 2021 legislative session, OEM has more than doubled its staff and seen budgetary increases to fund the increased capacity. These investments have allowed for a restructure of the agency to better support local and tribal jurisdictions through all phases of disasters, including readiness, response, mitigation and recovery. Regional coordination teams now serve as dedicated local points of contact, bridging gaps and strengthening relationships with emergency management professionals. These coordinators are joined by a tribal liaison for Oregon’s nine federally recognized tribes; and key roles to guide and implement inclusion, equity and accessibility initiatives unique to each community.

OEM has also expanded its mitigation capacity to assist and guide investments in risk reduction initiatives, looking forward at the shifting hazards to mitigate the risk of impacts caused by a changing climate. 

“Disasters are policy issues,” explained Phelps. “They are often a result of how we build, where we build, and the investments we choose to make. Expanding our mitigation efforts will help insure we are not preparing for the disaster we faced a decade ago, but for those we face today and in years to come.”

Recognizing that disasters have a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, the department is prioritizing a comprehensive and equitable approach to emergency management. OEM will continue to evolve its policies and programs to better support all communities in the state, with intentional focus on those historically marginalized and underserved. Identifying and mitigating factors contributing to existing disparities is key to ensuring programs and resources are equitable, inclusive and accessible.

HB2927 also transferred the Oregon Emergency Response System (OERS) call staff from the Department of State Police to OEM in the 2023 biennium; and transferred the Oregon Homeland Security Council from OEM to the Governor’s Office. Additionally, HB 2927 created two advisory councils to provide recommendations to the Governor’s Office and OEM on emergency preparedness, response, mitigation and recovery: The Emergency Preparedness Advisory Council on which OEM has a seat, and the Local Government Emergency Management Advisory Council, for which OEM will provide staff support.

“This transition has been in motion since July 1 of last year and we are excited the day has finally arrived,” said Phelps. “All of us at OEM are eager to continue partnering with the communities we serve to modernize emergency management and build a culture of preparedness in Oregon – one that empowers individuals, families and communities to be disaster survivors rather than victims.

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Caption: Oregon Department of Emergency Management's rebranded logo prominently features the outline of the state to better represent all communities the agency serves.

Please see attached notice from the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board.

Fire Agencies to begin Debris Burn Bans - Lincoln County, Oregon

With increased temperatures, decreased precipitation, and in cooperation with the Oregon Department of Forestry, several fire agencies in Lincoln County will soon be implementing bans on yard debris burning.

Agencies and Effective Dates:

• North Lincoln Fire & Rescue – July 10^th at dusk
• Depoe Bay Fire District – July 10^th at dusk
• Newport Fire Department – July 5^th 
• Seal Rock Fire District – July 5^th 
• Central Coast Fire & Rescue – July 5^th 
• Toledo Fire Department – July 5^th 
• Siletz Fire District – July 5^th 
• Yachats Fire District - July 10^th at dusk
• Oregon Department of Forestry – July 6^th at 00:01 am

This ban is specific to yard debris burning and does not include recreational campfires, portable propane/patio fireplaces, or charcoal BBQ grills.  Please check with your local fire agency for details specific to each jurisdiction. 

Reminder: Carelessness is the largest cause of wildfire.

Escaped fires of any kind resulting in property damage requiring efforts from a fire agency or multiple fire agencies, may result in fines and individual financial responsibility for damages caused and for fire response recovery, per Oregon Revised Statue; 476.920 - Billing owner of property for cost of extinguishing fire.

Additional Resource Links:

• Lincoln County Public Safety Non-Emergency Contact Numbers
• ODF Public Regulated Restrictions Use

Fire Districts/Departments of Lincoln County and Oregon Department of Forestry:

• Central Oregon Coast Fire and Rescue
• Depoe Bay Rural Fire Protection Dist.
• Newport Fire Dept. & Rural Fire Protection Dist.
• North Lincoln Fire & Rescue Dist. #1
• Oregon Department of Forestry
• Seal Rock Rural Fire Protection Dist.
• Siletz Valley Rural Fire Protection Dist.
• Toledo Fire Dept. & Rural Fire Protection Dist.
• Yachats Rural Fire Protection Dist.

###

Respectfully submitted, 

Jenny Demaris, County Emergency Manager
Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
 

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from June 26 to June 29, two Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in the sample collected on June 26. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on June 27, June 28, or June 29. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on June 21, 2022.

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

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

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

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

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

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 Thursday, June 30, 2022 at approximately 3:30 AM, Josephine County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the 100 block of Browntown Road in southern Josephine County for a report of a person shot. Upon arrival it was learned the victim was deceased and the reporting person was the shooter. The Oregon State Police Major Crime Team was requested by the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office to assume lead on the investigation.

Preliminary investigation revealed, William Illingworth (47) of Cave Junction, shot and killed a Jacob Benson (42) who had entered his home after an escalating verbal argument. The incident is still under investigation but is currently being investigated as a self-defense shooting. Illingworth has been cooperating with Detectives throughout the investigation. 

OSP was assisted by the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, Josephine County District Attorney’s Office and the OSP Forensic Lab. 

On Thursday, June 30, 2022 at approximately 5:08 PM, Oregon State Police and emergency personnel responded to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Hwy 36 and Dorsey Lane. This is approximately 3 miles west of Junction City.

Preliminary investigation revealed a southbound red Jeep Renegade, operated by Evelyn Carder (91) of Eugene, was stopped on Dorsey Lane at the intersection of Hwy 36. Carder proceeded into the intersection and was struck by a westbound yellow Freightliner dump truck, operated by Fred Morgan Jr (67) of Cheshire. 

Carder sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. Morgan received minor injuries. 

Hwy 36 was closed for approximately 4 hours. 

OSP was assisted by Junction City Police Department and ODOT. 

Oregon Heritage, a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, awarded 20 grants totaling $293,900 for historic properties and archaeology projects. Six of the grants were awarded in the Diamonds in the Rough category. This grant funds façade enhancements that restore the historic character of the property. The other 14 grants were in the Preserving Oregon category for properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places and for archaeology projects.

Funded projects:

• Façade restoration grants in Albany, Condon, Eugene, Spray, Stayton, and Tillamook.
• Two archaeology projects:
  • Forests Forever, Inc for research on a site in Clackamas County. 
  • Maxville Heritage Interpretive Center for a National Register of Historic Places nomination for the former Maxville site in Wallowa County.
• Preservation of 12 historic properties:
  • Applegate House Heritage Arts and Education, Yoncalla
  • Billy Webb Elks Lodge, Portland
  • City of Madras Municipal Airport WWII Hangar, Madras
  • Friends of Old Fort Stevens, Hammond
  • Lake Oswego Hunt, Lake Oswego
  • Malheur Historical Project Rinehart Stone House Museum, Vale
  • Pacific Railroad Preservation Association, Portland
  • Seaport Masonic Lodge #7, Astoria
  • Tualatin Plains Presbyterian Church, Hillsboro
  • Wallowa History Center, Wallowa
  • Willamette Community and Grange Hall Historical Building Foundation, Benton County

These grants are approved by the State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation, a nine-member group that reviews nominations to the National Register of Historic Places. The members are professionally recognized in the fields of history, architecture, archaeology and other related disciplines.

For more information about the grant program, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685. 

# # # 

5 units from Vancouver Fire department including the Hazardous Materials team are currently on scene assisting Northwest Natural Gas on a large gas leak in a residential neighborhood in East Vancouver. Dangerously high levels of gas are being detected in several homes after a 2" line was hit. Approx. 100 residents have been evacuated from a city block in the area of 45th street and 151st Ave. Attempts to control the leak are still underway and neighboring residents are strongly advised to avoid the area if possible.   

Nurses will be marching alongside community allies and an elected official in an informational picket starting at Jackson Park near Providence Hood River Medical Center and marching through downtown Hood River on Friday, July 1 from 5 - 6:30 PM.

WHAT: Frontline nurses who work at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital will participate in a march and informational picket about raising health care standards for nurses, patients and our community on Friday, July 1. The nurses—represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA)—will be joined by Oregon elected leaders, worker advocates and community allies. 

ONA represents more than 4,000 frontline nurses working in 10 Providence Health System facilities from Portland to Medford including nearly 150 nurses working at Providence Hood River. Nurses are standing together to raise standards for caregivers, our patients and our communities within Providence—Oregon’s largest health care system and one of the state’s largest companies. 

WHEN: Friday, July 1 at 5 p.m. The event is expected to last approximately an hour to an hour and a half.

WHERE: Starting at Jackson Park (near the intersection of May St. and 13th St. in Hood River), nurses will march to Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital (810 12th St., Hood River, OR 97031) and proceed north on 13th St., turning east on Oak St. and marching through downtown Hood River before concluding at Georgiana Smith Park (513 Oak St., Hood River, OR 97031). 

See route map attached.

Nurses and community leaders will hold speeches at the end of the march at Georgiana Smith Park. 

WHO: ONA frontline nurses from Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital along with visiting nurse supporters from across the state will be picketing along with community allies and worker advocates. Frontline nurses and allies will also be speaking in support of ONA nurses. 

Expected speakers include:

• State Representative Anna Williams
• Union leaders from the Oregon Education Association
• Local community health leaders
• Multiple ONA frontline nurses who work at Providence Hood River
• ONA frontline nurse supporters from OHSU

WHY: ONA nurses are picketing to improve patient safety and working conditions, address Providence’s staffing crisis, and raise standards to recruit and retain caregivers. Despite nurses’ sacrifices over the last two years serving on the frontlines of a deadly pandemic, Providence has left nurses at Providence Hood River working without the safety and security of a contract. Providence allowed nurses' contract at Providence Hood River to expire in March. ONA nurses from Providence Hood River and community allies are coming together to put patients first and make much-needed safety, staffing and care improvements for their community. 

As a rural critical access hospital, it is crucial that Providence supports local patients and listens to ONA frontline nurses at Hood River as they ask for basic safety standards to protect their patients, their coworkers and their families including: 

• Stronger patient safety standards to reduce future COVID-19 outbreaks and ensure the highest standards of care for all Oregonians.
• Safe nurse staffing to ensure high-quality care and patient access.
• Affordable health care and paid leave so frontline nurses can seek care after COVID-19 exposures and afford health care for their own families.
• A fair compensation package that allows hospitals to recruit and retain the skilled frontline caregivers our communities need to stay healthy and safe.

“Frontline nurses have invested in Providence with our blood, sweat, tears and our dollars. Now we’re asking Providence to invest in our communities. It’s time for Providence to listen to nurses across the state and reinvest in patient safety, safe staffing, and caregiver retention to improve health care for all Oregonians,” said ONA President Lynda Pond, RN.

Friday’s informational picket is open to the public. It is an outdoor, rain-or-shine event. Participants are encouraged to wear masks while in close contact with others, take measures to promote social distancing and follow guidance from designated picket captains and safety personnel.

NOTE: An informational picket is not a strike or work stoppage. It is a demonstration of solidarity to Providence’s administrators and a promise to our community that nurses, elected leaders and allies are united to raise health care standards at Providence and throughout Oregon.

ONA is also pleased to announce we have reached tentative contract agreements at two Providence hospitals in the Portland metro area and have made significant progress towards a tentative agreement at a third Portland-area Providence hospital. 

ONA nurse leaders at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center in Portland, Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center in Oregon City and Providence Milwaukie Hospital met in an unprecedented joint bargaining session with Providence administrators Tuesday, June 28 to try to secure fair contracts which raise patient safety standards, addresses staffing issues and keeps health care affordable throughout the Portland metro area. 

Following a historic 24-hour bargaining session which concluded on Wednesday, June 29, nurse leaders at Providence St. Vincent and Providence Willamette Falls reached new two-year tentative contract agreements which successfully address patient safety, staffing and health care affordability issues. Nurse leaders at Providence Milwaukie have come to a partial agreement and will continue negotiations July 7.

The ONA nurse bargaining teams at both Providence St. Vincent and Providence Willamette Falls are strongly recommending a “yes” vote on their tentative agreements. ONA nurses at both Providence St. Vincent and Providence Willamette Falls will have the opportunity to vote on their respective tentative contract agreements in the coming weeks. If approved, the new contracts will take effect immediately.  

In May, nurses at Providence St. Vincent voted nearly unanimously to authorize a strike against Providence. Nurses at Providence Milwaukie Hospital and Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center also previously authorized strikes against Providence. The two tentative agreements (TA) will avert a strike at those hospitals if ONA members vote to approve the TAs. The TAs and votes do not directly impact nurses’ negotiations or public actions at Providence Hood River. 

While Providence has shown a willingness to listen to ONA nurses in the Portland-metro area, nurses at Hood River are further apart at the bargaining table and ONA nurses are committed to remaining united and supporting nurses at Hood River and Milwaukie as they work towards fair and equitable contract agreements which benefit all Oregonians.

ONA nurses have volunteered their time to meet with Providence managers more than 50 times over the last eight months to bargain multiple contracts at Providence's Oregon hospitals. ONA frontline nurses across Oregon have asked Providence for basic safety standards and are offering common sense proposals to protect our patients, our coworkers and our families including stronger patient safety standards, safe nurse staffing, affordable health care, paid leave, and a fair compensation package that enables the hospital to recruit and retain the skilled frontline caregivers our communities need to stay healthy and safe.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is the state’s largest and most influential nursing organization. We are a professional association and labor union which represents more than 15,000 nurses and allied health workers throughout the state, including more than 4,000 nurses working at 10 Providence Oregon health care facilities throughout the state. ONA’s mission is to advocate for nursing, quality health care and healthy communities. For more information visit: www.OregonRN.org.

SALEM, Ore. - To fill staff shortages during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Oregon State Hospital requested support from the Oregon National Guard for service member’s support. Beginning on Aug. 16, 2021, a total of 47 Oregon Guard members rotated through the hospital providing support, with the high hitting 32 members, as the mission concluded on June 30, 2022, with 12 Guardsmen assigned to the task.

The Guard service members initially worked with the mental health technician staff; later a small contingent of six members assisted in the kitchen and environmental services, and supporting patient care.

The mission commander, Oregon Air National Guard, Lt. Col. Jason Baldy said, "Our volunteer guard members did a great job, and most of them found it rewarding. In addition, the existing staff of the hospital liked working with our guard members because they already knew how to work and move as a unit which is important to keep each other safe."

The deployment of the National Guard members did not have a specified length of time when initially assigned, and several of the 47 members that served at the state hospital enjoyed the work so much that they applied for permanent civilian positions.

"Ten guard members have applied to work for the state hospital as the mission has ended, and the hospital has created a streamlined hiring process," said Baldy.

Throughout 2020 and well into 2022, the Oregon National Guard was called for domestic operations support across the state. Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen supported local communities with PPE distribution, mass vaccination support, and hospital operations, along with non-Covid support with both wildland fire and flooding support. The Oregon State Hospital assignment was the longest-running domestic operations mission in the state, lasting 318 days in total.

(U.S. Army National Guard story and photos by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

                                                                            -30-

Photos for release:

210923-Z-ZJ128-1001:
Oregon National Guard members on break from State Hospital training, in front of the entrance to Oregon State Hospital, Salem, Ore. Sept. 23, 2021. Guard members have been assigned to the Oregon State Hospital since Aug. 2021 to help with critical staffing shortages.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

220630-Z-ZJ128-1001:
Maj. Gen. Michael E. Stencel, The Adjutant General of the Oregon National Guard, addresses guard members previously assigned to the Oregon State Hospital during a demobilization ceremony at the Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Ore. June 30, 2022. Guard members have been assigned to the Oregon State Hospital since Aug. 2021 to help with critical staffing shortages.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

210630-Z-ZJ128-1002:
Oregon Guard members stand at attention during a demobilization ceremony to mark the end of the Oregon State Hospital mission at the Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Ore. June 30, 2022. Guard members have been assigned to the Oregon State Hospital since Aug. 2021 to help with critical staffing shortages.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

210630-Z-ZJ128-1003:
Maj. Gen. Michael E. Stencel, The Adjutant General of the Oregon National Guard, addresses guard members previously assigned to the Oregon State Hospital during a demobilization ceremony at the Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Ore. June 30, 2022. Guard members have been assigned to the Oregon State Hospital since Aug. 2021 to help with critical staffing shortages.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
 

Thursday, June 30, 2022-Woodland, WA-Woodland High School’s Positive Academic Support System (PASS) spotlighted its graduates in a special ceremony before this year’s commencement. The PASS program, started in 2019, targets struggling students and assigns staff members who help the students by offering whatever support they need to get back on-track. “Almost all of our program participants graduate on time,” said Stacy Gould, a PASS Case Manager. “I could not be prouder of these kids and the unbelievable dedication they show to turning around their studies.”

PASS pairs struggling students with dedicated staff members who mentor them throughout their high school careers by providing the students with the support they need as early as possible. “Students who end their ninth year on-track passing all of their courses are 3.5 times more likely to graduate from high school than peers who fail one or more classes,” said Assistant Principal Dan Uhlenkott, who helped develop the PASS program in 2019. “Many PASS students actually refer to their PASS mentors as ‘school moms’ who provide students with the push they need to succeed each school day.”

Cyndy Grayson, a PASS mentor, remembers the team trying to figure out exactly how the program would operate during its first year, “We learned that PASS is not about how students have failing grades, it’s about why our students have failing grades,” she said. “Students’ lives outside of school can have bigger impacts on their studies and academic success than anything that happens inside the classroom.”

PASS mentors learned that breaking through a struggling student’s barriers provides the key to the student’s success at school. Sometimes just helping a student have some food for breakfast each day can provide the extra edge they need to succeed. “Studies show that hunger can have a dramatic negative impact on student learning,” said Grayson. “We make sure our students have eaten every morning and get a good night’s sleep so they concentrate on their studies.”

Students in PASS receive assistance with homework as well as encouragement to continue working hard in addition to training in ways to become self-advocates, working with their teachers to help find the support to succeed. “We help students connect with the right people and services so they don’t fall through the cracks,” said Gould. “Essentially, we are the ‘go-to resource’ to help guide them in the right direction.”

Learn more about how Woodland Public Schools educates our students and serves the community, by visiting our dedicated news webpage at www.woodlandschools.org/news/wsd

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Salem, Oregon area drug trafficker was sentenced to more than 12 years in federal prison today after being arrested with distribution quantities of methamphetamine and heroin and two handguns.

Chase Benjamin Russell-Brown, 31, was sentenced to 150 months in federal prison and four years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, on November 5, 2019, officers from the Salem Police Department Strategic Investigations Unit (SIU) were conducting surveillance at a Salem hotel known for drug activity. Officers observed Russell-Brown, who had twice been arrested in the prior two months for drug trafficking offenses, exit the hotel carrying a bag and leave in a vehicle with expired registration. When the officers attempted a traffic stop, Russell-Brown fled. 

Russell-Brown led officers into a crowded grocery store parking lot where the officers attempted to block him in a parking aisle. When officers positioned behind Russell-Brown’s vehicle approached on foot, Russell-Brown put his car into reverse, accelerated, and rammed a patrol car, nearly hitting the officers. After the collision, an officer in another patrol car drove forward and contacted Russell-Brown’s vehicle from the front, attempting to pin the vehicle in place. As officers approached on foot a second time, Russell-Brown continue to accelerate the vehicle trying to break free. Finally, officers were able to break the window of Russell-Brown’s vehicle and place him under arrest.

Officers found two loaded handguns on Russell-Brown’s person and several dozen grams of methamphetamine and heroin, drug packaging material, and additional ammunition and magazines in his vehicle. In total, approximately 380 grams of methamphetamine were seized from Russell-Brown during his three drug trafficking arrests.

On November 21, 2019, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an eight-count indictment charging Russell-Brown with possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

On September 16, 2020, Russell-Brown pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug of the District of Oregon made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the Salem Police Department with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). It was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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.

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June 24, 2022

The next Housing Stability Council meeting will be from 9 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Friday, July 1, 2022. The meeting will be held electronically due to the current COVID-19 health crisis. You can find all meeting materials on our website.

Webinar Meeting Only

Register in advance for this webinar:

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0gaTLc20SYSFgConBPN2kw 

AGENDA:

9:00: Meeting Called to Order - Roll Call 

9:05: Public Comment

9:30: Report of the Chair

9:45: Report of the Director

10:00: Affordable Rental Housing Division (pg. 05)

             Natasha Detweiler-Daby, interim director, Affordable Rental Housing

• MF Housing Transaction Recommendations: Tai Dunson-Strane, Production Manager [updated]
  • 5020 N Interstate
  • Nestucca Ocean Apartments
• Champion Park: Preservation Recommendation: Martin Jarvis, State Tax Credit Program Analyst
• Market Cost Offset: Affordability Term Alignment: Natasha Detweiler-Daby, Interim Director Affordable Rental Housing
• CARE Initiative; Co-Location of Affordable Rental with Early Learning: Rick Ruzicka, Interim Assistant Director Planning and Policy
• ANOAH Pilot: Acquisition of Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing Funds: Mitch Hannoosh, Senior Operations and Policy Analyst; Trinity Kerr, Operations and Policy Analyst
• 4% LIHTC and Private Activity Bond Framework Introduction:  Roberto Franco, Assistant Director Development Resources & Production; Natasha Detweiler-Daby, Interim Director Affordable Rental Housing
• Reference memo in packet (not prioritized for discussion):
  • Market Cost Offset Fund

11:30: 15 min break

11:45: Homeownership Division (pg. 49) 

             Emese Perfecto, director, Homeownership

• Homeownership Market Cost Offset Fund: Emese Perfecto, Director, Talia Kahn-Kravis, Operations & Policy Analyst

12:15: 2023 DRAFT Legislative Agenda (pg. 54)

• Updates & Stakeholder Survey Results: Nicole Stingh, Assistant Director of Government Relations, Chelsea Bunch, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer

1:15: Housing Stabilization Division (pg. 70)

            Jill Smith, Interim Director, Housing Stabilization

• Rent Assistance for Youth Pilot program: Jill Smith, Interim Director, Housing Stabilization, Lauren Dressen, Interim Manager of Housing Retention Programs

1:30: Central Services Division (pg. 75) 

            Sarah Roth, Central Services Administrator

• Reference memo in packet (not prioritized for discussion):
  •  HR Report on Staffing Demographics                   

1:45: Meeting Adjourned

SALEM, Ore. – Today, the Oregon Department of Forestry and Oregon State University launched Oregon's Wildfire Risk Map. Some homes and properties identified within the map may be subject to future defensible space regulations the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and its partners are currently developing through an open public process. 

Through legislation, Senate Bill 762, which was passed and signed into law last summer, the OSFM was tasked with developing the Oregon Defensible Space Code. The code development process is currently underway and involves a wide range of stakeholders across Oregon. Senate Bill 762 outlines that the code must be completed by December 2022. The OSFM and its stakeholders are on track to meet that timeline. For context, the development of the Oregon Defensible Space Code is following the same process the OSFM uses to adopt and codify the Oregon Fire Code every three years.

The Oregon Defensible Space Code intends to protect life and property in the event of a wildfire. The code may apply to properties that meet two requirements. First, the home or property must be in the wildland-urban interface and at high or extreme risk on the Oregon Wildfire Risk Map. 

According to OSU and ODF, approximately 80,000 of the 120,276 tax lots in the wildland-urban interface and at high or extreme risk classifications currently have a structure that may be subject to new codes or standards. According to OSU and ODF, this figure represents approximately five percent of properties in Oregon.

The OSFM would like to stress the importance of defensible space and the added protection it could provide your family and home. The OSFM has developed several tools to help homeowners begin defensible space projects. More information and potential grant opportunities can be found on the OSFM's website, under Oregon Defensible Space Code. The Office welcomes public comments and feedback on the defensible space code through this form. 

"We know from decades of wildfires in Oregon that wildfire does not recognize map lines," said Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. "Even if people find that they are not within the boundaries where future standards might apply, the majority of Oregon still has an elevated risk. We ask that all Oregonians take the necessary steps to create defensible space, no matter where they fall on the map. The more we do together to prepare our homes, the more resilient our communities will become against the rising threat of wildfire."

In the last year, the OSFM launched two initiatives to rise to the challenge of wildlife, Response Ready Oregon and Fire Adapted Oregon. We've set up special sections on our website to learn more about how these initiatives are already helping. 

Response Ready Oregon

Fire Adapted Oregon

###

Firefighters from Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue were dispatched at 6:40 PM Wednesday to a report of water leaking from a townhouse at 171 N. 42^nd Place in Ridgefield, Washington. Neighbors reported that no one was home and water was seen leaking from the second-story balcony and a window.

Per dispatch protocols, only one response unit was sent to the suspected water leak. Tower Ladder 21 (TO-21) from the Ridgefield station arrived to find water leaking from the second floor, but also noticed smoke from a second-story bedroom window. Captain Matt Woodford from TO-21 immediately recognized that the water was from a fire sprinkler system and there was a fire somewhere on the second floor. Capt. Woodford called for additional resources to be dispatched and the crew from TO-21 began the work of locating and extinguishing the remainder of the fire.

Firefighters located a smoldering fire involving a clothes hamper, clothing, and the carpet in a second-floor bedroom. The fire had been held in check by water from a single fire sprinkler head that was activated by the heat of the fire. Firefighters fully extinguished the fire, turned off the fire sprinkler system, and began the process of cleaning up the damage caused by the fire and water.

Fire Investigators from CCFR and the Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office determined that the fire was caused by an unattended candle that had been left burning on a paper plate on the floor. In addition, firefighters determined that the smoke alarms in the townhome had been disabled. According to Capt. Woodford, “Thanks to the fire sprinkler system, this incident had a good outcome. With the smoke alarms disabled, no one in the adjoining homes would have been alerted to the growing fire.”

There were no injuries at this incident. The residents were able to remain in the home once firefighters cleaned up the water from the fire sprinkler.

Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue reminds everybody to maintain working smoke alarms in their residence. Do not disable your smoke alarms. Smoke alarms do an extraordinary job of notifying people of a fire. Working smoke alarms can alert occupants to exit a building before the fire grows out of hand.

## Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue (CCFR) serves 45,000 people over 125 square miles, including the cities of La Center, Ridgefield, Woodland, and the Cowlitz Indian Reservation. Our combination department includes full-time and volunteer firefighters responding to an average of 5000 fire and emergency medical calls a year. CCFR operates under a balanced budget and has a history of passing independent financial audits by the state. ##

June 30, 2022

Media Contact: Delia Hernández                        

equests@hcs.oregon.gov">HCS.mediarequests@hcs.oregon.gov 

Sharon Nickleberry Rogers appointed to the Oregon Housing Stability Council

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services announced that Sharon Nickleberry Rogers, CPA, is newly appointed to serve on the Oregon Housing Stability Council. The council works to establish OHCS’ strategic direction to meet the housing and services needs of low- and moderate-income Oregonians, as well as reviews and sets policy for the development and financing of affordable housing in the state.

“Councilmember Nickleberry Rogers brings impressive professional experience and a passion for serving communities facing barriers to housing access,” said OHCS Director Andrea Bell. “We need voices like Sharon’s in our council to support our mission of building and preserving affordable housing in all forms, shapes and sizes for Oregon renters and homeowners.”

Nickleberry Rogers is a native Portland resident who is passionate about serving the community and making a difference for individuals who lack adequate or affordable housing. She is honored to serve on the Housing Stability Council. 

“My compassion for housing stems from my childhood when my parents provided housing for family members relocating to Portland,” Nickleberry Rogers said. “I recognized early on the importance of housing and knew having a safe place to call home was special. My parents’ commitment to helping others ignited my interest in helping others.”

She is a public servant employed as a financial analyst with the City of Portland. She has over 20 years of experience in various financial roles with the Internal Revenue Service, PricewaterhouseCoopers, NE Community Development Corporation, Harsch Investment Properties, and Home Forward. She is also a licensed and certified public accountant in Oregon. 

Nickleberry Rogers received her undergraduate degree from the University of Oregon and two master’s degrees from Portland State University in business and taxation. She lives in northeast Portland with her husband and has a daughter attending college. A photo of Nickleberry Rogers can be found on the OHCS website, along with additional information about her background and experience.

Nickleberry Rogers will serve a three-year term and will have the option to serve additional terms. Housing Stability Council meetings are held on the first Friday of the month with additional meetings as needed. To watch an upcoming meeting and stay updated about the events of the council, visit oregon.gov/ohcs/hsc.

June 30, 2022

Media contacts:

Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8843, ica.J.Heartquist@dhsoha.state.or.us">Erica.J.Heartquist@dhsoha.state.or.us

Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, Jonathan.N.Modie@dhsoha.state.or.us

Stay safe from summer hazards as you head out for Fourth of July

OHA offers tips on keeping summer from being a bummer during activities

PORTLAND, Ore.— Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is offering tips on staying safe and healthy as people head out for family gatherings, camping trips and other outdoor activities during the Fourth of July holiday.

“Here in Oregon, summer doesn’t really kick off until Independence Day, when we finally start seeing those regular stretches of sunny weather,” said Dean Sidelinger, MD, MSEd, health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA. “But with those long, hot days comes health hazards people should be aware of, and take steps to protect themselves.”

When summertime arrives, many people in Oregon head to lakes, rivers and beaches to cool off and recreate. There can be health risks related to summer fun such as harmful algal blooms at lakes, unpredictably cold water at rivers that can lead to hypothermia, and fecal bacteria at beaches. People camping and enjoying other outdoor activities can often encounter mosquitoes, ticks, bats and other wildlife that can carry diseases, and picnics with unrefrigerated food can be sources of foodborne illnesses.

There also are climate change-related summer risks, such as extreme heat and smoke from wildfires. And summertime activities may put some people at risk for excessive alcohol use or misuse of prescription pain killers or illicit opioids.

“Summer doesn’t have to be a bummer,” Sidelinger said. “All that’s required is simple preparation and a little bit of common sense.”

Here are links to tips for staying safe from summer’s common health risks:

• Drowning prevention: Oregon’s lakes, river and beaches – not to mention backyard and community swimming pools – are great places to cool off and enjoy the water when the weather turns warm, but doing so means being mindful of ways to stay safe and prevent drownings and other injuries.
  • Avoid alcohol when swimming or boating.
  • Enter water feet first to reduce your risk of head and spinal injury, and paralysis.
  • Young and weaker swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device (PFD) or life jacket for swimming and boating; never use swimming aids such as water wings, noodles or other water toys in place of a life jacket.
  • Swim with someone else and avoid swimming in bad weather.
  • Supervise children at all times in and near the water.
  • Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
  • Take the time to learn CPR at your local hospital, fire department or recreation department.
  • Visit Safe Kids Worldwide’s swimming safety website.
• Wildfires, wildfire smoke: Gases and fine particles from burning trees and other plant material can be dangerous if inhaled. Carbon monoxide is mainly a risk to people (like wildland firefighters) who work near smoldering areas. Smoke can irritate your eyes and respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. The amount and length of smoke exposure, as well as a person’s age and health conditions, play a role in determining if someone will experience smoke-related health problems.
  • Avoid vigorous outdoor activity when wildfire smoke is in the air.
  • Stay indoors as much as possible and create cleaner air spaces.
  • If you have a central air system, purchase and install a MERV-13 or better filter before wildfire season set your system to recycle or recirculate the air.
  • No central air conditioning? Create a cleaner air space in at least one room in your home by purchasing an air filtration device or building your own do-it-yourself device with a box fan and HVAC filters. Don’t wait until smoke is near and stores are out of fans and filters.
  • When driving, run your car’s air conditioner on the recirculate setting.
  • Reduce other sources of indoor smoke and dust. These can be burning cigarettes, candles, gas, propane, and wood-burning stoves and furnaces, and vacuuming.
  • Visit OregonSmoke.org (Spanish site: OregonHumo.org) to find the current air quality.
  • If you have heart or lung disease or respiratory illnesses such as asthma, follow your health care provider’s advice about prevention and treatment of symptoms.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water.
  • Visit OHA’s Wildfires and Smoke website.
• Mosquitoes: West Nile virus (WNV) is carried by mosquitoes and can infect humans, horses, and birds. Humans can only get the virus from the bite of an infected mosquito; the disease does not spread from other animals to humans, or from person to person. Most infections are mild, with fever and flu-like symptoms, but severe infections may cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and rarely, death.
  • Eliminate sources of standing water that are a breeding ground for mosquitoes, including watering troughs, bird baths, ornamental ponds, buckets, wading and swimming pools not in use, and old tires.
  • Protect yourself by using mosquito repellants containing DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus or Picardin, and follow the directions on the container.
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants in mosquito-infested areas.
  • Make sure screen doors and windows are in good repair and fit tightly.
  • Visit OHA’s West Nile Virus Prevention and Education website.
• Ticks: Oregon is home to at least three species of ticks. East of the Cascades, the most common is the Rocky Mountain wood tick, which transmits Colorado tick fever, as well as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia. West of the Cascades, there’s the brown dog tick, which also spreads Rocky Mountain spotted fever; and the blacklegged tick or deer tick, which carries Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, an emerging infection called Borrelia miyamotoi, and several other diseases.
  
  • Avoid tick-prone areas such as brushy or wooded areas with high grass and leaf litter during the peak time of year—late March to mid-October.
  • Wear tick repellent that contains permethrin or DEET. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology found that permethrin-treated clothing can prevent tick bites by disrupting the insect’s normal movement.
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and closed-toed shoes, and tuck pant legs into the tops of socks or boots.
  • Wear light-colored clothes to make it easier to spot ticks.
  • Frequently check your clothing, gear and pets for ticks, and remove them promptly.
  • After you get home, check your body for ticks, including under the arms, in and around the ears, inside your belly button, on the backs of your knees, in and around your head, between your legs and around the waist.
  • Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Ticks website.
• Cyanobacteria (harmful algal) blooms in lakes, reservoirs and rivers: Symptoms of exposure to cyanotoxins include diarrhea, cramps, vomiting, numbness, dizziness and fainting. Although cyanotoxins are not absorbed through the skin, people with sensitive skin can develop a red, raised rash when wading, playing, or swimming in or around a bloom.
  • Stay out of water that looks foamy, scummy, thick like pea-green or blue-green paint, or where brownish-red mats are present, and keep pets away, too.
  • Avoid high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the lake where blooms are, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water.
  • If you are unsure, follow OHA’s guidance of “When in doubt, stay out.”
  • Toxins are not absorbed through the skin, but those with skin sensitivities may experience a puffy red rash after exposure to water where there is a bloom.
  • Water activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, and bird watching can still be enjoyed when an algal bloom advisory is in effect. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray that can lead to a risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.
  • Visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.
• Beach bacteria: Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.
  • When an OHA beach advisory is in effect, the beach is still open to the public. The advisory is to inform visitors to avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water.
  • Avoid any activities during which you might swallow water, such as swimming, surfing, diving and kayaking.
  • Stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria tend to be higher in these types of water sources.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before eating if playing in or around water that has above normal bacteria levels.
  • Keep pets out of the water during an advisory to prevent them from drinking the water.
  • Avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm even if there is no advisory in effect.
  • Visit OHA’s Monitoring Beach Water Quality website.
• Rabies: Bats and other small animals, such as foxes, play a valuable role in nature, but they can carry rabies. This viral disease of mammals attacks an infected animal’s nervous system. Typically, other animals acquire rabies by eating or coming in contact with a rabid bat.
  • Stay away from bats and do not handle them.
  • If you find a sick bat or other sick wildlife, contact your local Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) office. Take children and pets indoors and do not handle the bat or animal without protection.
  • Use a disposable container with a lid to scoop a dead animal into the containers and dispose of it in the trash.
  • If a bat has had contact with a human or an animal, call your health department or animal services for guidance.
  • Vaccinate pets (dogs and cats) against rabies.
  • Watch wildlife from a distance. Don’t approach or attempt to handle wild animals.
  • Do not feed wild animals.
  • Keep garbage in secure containers and away from wildlife.
  • Feed pets indoors.
  • Seal openings in attics, basements, porches, sheds, barns and screen chimneys that might provide access to bats and other wildlife.
  • Visit OHA’s Bats and Rabies website.
• Foodborne illnesses: Warmer weather makes it easier for food to spoil. Cooking meats to a proper internal temperature, and keeping hot foods hot and cold foods cool helps reduce foodborne bacteria from growing.
  • Be sure to wash your hands before and after cooking, and after handling fish and meats.
  • Keep meat and poultry refrigerated until ready to use.
  • Don’t leave food out for more than two to three hours.
  • To prevent foodborne illness, don't use the same platter and utensils for raw and cooked meat and poultry.
  • Cook meats to minimum internal temperature to destroy harmful bacteria; 145 °F for beef, pork, veal and lamb (roast, steak and chops); 160 °F for ground meats; 165 °F for poultry.
  • Visit OHA’s Food Safety for the Public website.
• Extreme heat: Excessive heat conditions can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses that can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These high temperatures can seriously affect the health of the elderly, those who work or exercise outdoors, infants and children, the homeless or poor, and people with a chronic medical condition.
  • Stay cool
    • Stay in air-conditioned places when temperatures are high, if possible.
    • Limit outdoor exposure to the sun between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest, and avoid direct sunlight. Try to schedule outdoor activities in the morning and evening.
    • While it is cool, open windows to allow fresh air to circulate, especially during morning and evening hours, and close shades on west-facing windows during the afternoon hours.
    • Use portable electric fans to exhaust hot air from rooms or draw in cooler air to help reduce indoor temperatures.
    • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing to keep cool and protect your skin from the sun, and dress infants and children the same way.
    • Use cool compresses, misting, and cool showers and baths to lower your body temperature.
    • Avoid hot foods and heavy meals; they add heat to the body.
    • Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
    • Never leave infants or children in a parked car. Nor should pets be left in parked cars—they can suffer heat-related illness, too.
    • Avoid sunburns. Use sunscreen with at least SPF 15 when going outside.
    • Check on at-risk friends, family and neighbors at least twice a day.
  • Stay hydrated
    • Make sure your family, friends and neighbors are drinking enough water.
    • Regardless of your level of activity, drink plenty of fluids, even if you are not thirsty and especially when working outside.
    • Avoid alcohol or liquids containing large amounts of sugar.
  • Stay informed
    • Stay updated on the temperature and heat index when planning your activities so you can find ways to stay cool and hydrated. The heat index measures how hot it feels outside when factoring in humidity with the actual air temperature.
    • Learn how to prevent, recognize, and treat heat-related illnesses.
    • Visit OHA’s Extreme Heat website.
• Alcohol, opioid misuse: Substance use, including excessive alcohol use and opioid misuse, can be a problem as people gather for summer activities.
  • When using alcohol:
    • Don’t drink and drive a car or boat. Plan for alternative rides or designated drivers.
    • Set limits. Decide how many days a week you plan to drink and how many drinks you plan to have. For instance, you might decide to only drink on a Friday night or Saturday night and have one drink. Schedule alcohol-free days every week. Create a plan with this interactive screening tool.
    • Count your drinks. Use an app on your mobile device to help. Understanding how much alcohol counts as a “standard” drink may also help.
    • Manage your “triggers,” such as certain people, places or activities that tempt you to drink more than you planned. For example, instead of a happy hour event with co-workers, suggest catching up at lunch instead. You may also want to remove certain alcohol products from your home.
    • Find support. Ask for support from a friend, family member, health care provider, or someone else who will support your choice to drink less. Call 1-800-923-4357 for free confidential support.
  • If you or someone you know uses prescription or illicit opioids:
    • Don’t use alone and always have naloxone on hand. Naloxone is an easy-to-use, life-saving drug that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose when administered in time.
    • Stagger your illicit drug use; don’t use all at once in case there is fentanyl in your drugs and people fall into overdose.
    • Unless a pharmacist directly hands you a prescription pill, assume that it is counterfeit and contains fentanyl.
    • If you are in treatment for substance use, ask your counselor for help getting naloxone. You might get naloxone at no cost from a local program.
    • If you want to have naloxone on hand for someone else, ask your pharmacist for a prescription.
    • If you are actively using opioids and involved with a syringe exchange or other harm-reduction services, you can get naloxone at no cost.
    • If you suspect someone is overdosing, call 911 immediately. Oregon’s Good Samaritan law will protect you against criminal charges.
  • Visit CDC’s Drink Less, Be Your Best website or see OHA’s Administering Naloxone During COVID-19 fact sheet. Also visit the Never Use Alone website

SALEM, Ore.—Press conference scheduled at 3:30 p.m., July 5.

The Oregon Department of Forestry will hold a press availability on July 5 at 3:30 p.m. to share details and answer questions about the recently released wildland-urban interface (WUI) and statewide wildfire risk map.

The map, available through the Oregon Explorer, is a tool to help inform decision making and planning related to mitigating wildfire risk for communities throughout Oregon. 

ODF Fire Protection Chief Mike Shaw, Wildfire Programs Director Doug Grafe, and others will be on hand to answer questions about the map’s function, purpose, and potential defensible space requirements.  

Members of the media who wish to attend must RSVP by 3 p.m., July 1, by emailing facilitator Derek Gasperini at ek.gasperini@odf.oregon.gov">derek.gasperini@odf.oregon.gov. An RSVP confirmation email will include the Zoom link for the event and login information.

Salem – Oregon will receive nearly $1 million as part of a multi-state settlement with cryptocurrency financial institution BlockFi. 

Following investigations led by a group of state securities regulators and the SEC, the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) brought legal action against BlockFi for violations of the Oregon Securities Law. As part of its settlement with securities regulators, BlockFi agreed to pay a total of $100 million, half of which would go to the SEC and the other half to state securities regulators. BlockFi further agreed to stop offering BlockFi Interest Accounts (BIAs) in the U.S., and stop accepting additional deposits from U.S. customers to accounts that were already open.

BlockFi offered and sold securities in Oregon without being properly registered. In addition, BlockFi offered and sold BIAs to the public. Through BIAs, investors lent crypto assets to BlockFi in exchange for the company’s promise to provide a variable monthly interest payment. Investors deposited cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum into accounts. BlockFi promised monthly interest rates of 6.2 percent, compounded each month with the possibility of earning up to 9.5 percent, depending on the type and size of investment. BlockFi told investors that loans were overcollateralized – having more collateral than is needed in order to reduce the risk to the investors – when, in fact, they were not. Approximately 24 percent of institutional digital asset loans made in 2019 were overcollateralized, 16 percent in 2020 and 17 percent through June 30, 2021. As a result, BlockFi materially overstated the degree to which it secured protection from defaults by institutional borrowers through collateral.

“Financial services powered by cryptocurrencies must be held accountable just like any other financial institution,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “I am happy with the outcome here and we will continue to monitor businesses that try to take advantage of Oregonians or do business here illegally.”

The settlement, which was finalized between BlockFi and DFR last week, orders BlockFi to stop offering or selling BIAs or any security that is not registered, qualified, or exempt to new investors in Oregon, to stop accepting further investments or funds in the BIAs by current Oregon investors, and to pay $943,396 to DFR. 

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit www.dcbs.oregon.gov and dfr.oregon.gov.​​

UPDATE: Due to predicted cloudy skies, the Star Party is being rescheduled to Aug. 1.

OREGON CITY - The Clackamas Community College Environmental Learning Center is hosting a star-gazing party on Sunday, July 3, 9-11:30 p.m. on its Oregon City campus.

The Rose City Astronomers will be on hand sharing views of the night sky through their telescopes. This event is free and open to the public. Participants are invited to bring chairs, binoculars and blankets to the athletic fields near the Environmental Learning Center.

If skies are cloudy that night, call Rose City Astronomers at 503-594-6044 to see if the event is canceled due to poor sky conditions. Clackamas Community College is located at 19600 Molalla Ave. in Oregon City.

About the Environmental Learning Center

The Environmental Learning Center has a rich history as an educational resource for Clackamas Community College, regional schools, industry and the community. Located on the former site of a Smucker's processing plant, the center was created to demonstrate what people could do to reclaim industrial sites, address stormwater issues and restore wildlife habitats in urban areas. Each year thousands of people visit to explore the 5-acre site and learn about watershed health. The site serves as an important stormwater facility for the college campus and provides critical wetland habitat for resident and migratory birds, such as the great blue heron, wood duck and merganser. For more information about the Environmental Learning Center, visit www.clackamas.edu/ELC. 

-30-

June 30, 2022

Media Contact: 

Delia Hernández                                                  

equests@hcs.oregon.gov">HCS.mediarequests@hcs.oregon.gov 

State continues paying out Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program applications to renters and landlords across Oregon

More than 60,000 Oregon households facing pandemic hardship receive over $386 million in rental assistance relief

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is processing applications for payment submitted through the Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program (OERAP) portal which stopped accepting applications on March 21, 2022. As of today, the agency has paid out $386.66 million in emergency rental assistance to 60,166 households. The funding successfully helped more than 100,000 Oregonians stay in their homes.

OHCS is ahead of schedule to meet the deadlines established by U.S. Treasury for federal funds and has obligated the $100 million allocated by the Oregon Legislature during the December 2021 Special Session. Oregon has provided the highest percentage of assistance according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, ranking Oregon first in the nation in the percentage of emergency rental assistance funds paid out and obligated.

OERAP is continuing to accept and process recertification applications from eligible tenants who previously applied and have unpaid rental balances or need additional months of assistance. Rental assistance also remains available at the local level. To access those funds, tenants can call 2-1-1 or visit oregonrentalassistance.org.

Today is the deadline for tenants to initiate SB 891 protections from eviction for nonpayment of rent until their rental assistance application is closed or September 2022, whichever is first. Tenants must submit rental assistance applications to local programs or apply for recertification through OERAP, if eligible, as well as provide proof of application submission to their landlord by 11:59 p.m. on June 30. Households with pending rental assistance applications that have not provided documentation of submission to their landlord will not have protection from eviction beginning July 1, 2022.

Individuals who have received an eviction notice should: 

• Apply for local rental assistance immediately
• Provide their landlord with proof of application (before June 30 at 11:59 p.m.)
• Contact Oregon Law Center’s Eviction Defense Project for further legal support 

Landlords can be reimbursed for eligible non-payment costs such as rent and late fees incurred during the “safe harbor” period by applying to the Landlord Guarantee Program.

Oregon Eviction Diversion and Prevention Program

OHCS’ top priority in addressing homelessness is preventing people from experiencing it all together. As part of the additional $100 million in Eviction Prevention funding OHCS received in December 2021, OHCS developed the Oregon Eviction Diversion and Prevention (ORE-DAP) Program. ORE-DAP aims to quickly assist Oregonians facing displacement by delivering rental assistance and other critical eviction and housing-related resources. This program is being administered statewide by community action agencies in partnership with culturally responsive organizations. To access ORE-DAP resources, tenants may contact their community action agencies. 

 

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Pummeled by Omicron and rising labor and other costs, negative margins come despite full patient loads 

Lake Oswego, Ore. – June 30, 2022 – The bleak hospital financial picture from 2021 worsened in the first quarter of 2022, as a surge in COVID-19 hospitalizations from the Omicron wave and rising labor and other costs combined to produce a dismal fiscal quarter that saw 58 percent of Oregon’s hospitals post a negative margin.

Hospitals lost a collective $103 million in Q1 2022 (hospitals posted an average gain of $190 million per quarter in 2019). 

Median Operating Margin saw a sharp decline in Q1 to -2.5 percent, dropping below the staggering lows seen in the earliest stages of the pandemic. The full report is attached. While over half of Oregon hospitals posted a negative margin last quarter, some of the negative margins were in the double digits. 

“These sobering numbers come after two years of really bad financial performance,” said Becky Hultberg, OAHHS President and CEO. “We are concerned about some of these community organizations’ ability to provide life-saving and preventative services in their communities if the financial picture does not improve.” 

Simply put, hospital revenue is not covering the cost of patient care. Net Patient Revenue (NPR) again fell short of Total Operating Expenses (TOE) in Q1 2022, and the gap is growing wider. Over the past four quarters, NPR has been flat while expenses have risen 10.2 percent. 

One significant driver of this is higher costs for labor (up nearly 20 percent over the last four quarters and up 26% since 2019) as hospitals raise wages to compete for scarce workers and have had to hire contract labor to ensure ongoing patient care. Labor accounts for at least half of a hospital’s cost, so even a small increase in labor cost has a big impact. 

Other hospital costs have risen as well: other expenses such as supplies, housekeeping, IT, utilities, and insurance have risen 18 percent since 2019. 

In combination with expenses, hospitals continued to deal with historic patient care volumes. Omicron-fueled COVID-19 patient loads peaked at 1,134 (just short of the Delta wave peak). During the pandemic hospitals have often been unable to discharge patients to a more appropriate level of care at a long-term care or behavioral health setting, meaning on any given day hundreds of patients are either “boarding” in the emergency department or in a hospital bed waiting for a placement in the community. 

“Let’s be clear, the current state of hospital finances can’t continue. The math no longer works,” said Hultberg. 

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About OAHHS: Founded in 1934, OAHHS is a statewide, nonprofit trade association that works closely with local and national government leaders, business and citizen coalitions, and other professional health care organizations to enhance and promote community health and to continue improving Oregon’s innovative health care delivery system.

Apprise Health Insights is the most reliable and complete source of hospital data in Oregon. As the data subsidiary of the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (OAHHS), Apprise staff have gathered and analyzed data about Oregon hospitals and health systems since 1985. We strive to provide data, tools, and expertise to help hospitals understand the healthcare landscape in the Pacific Northwest. 

Marine law enforcement officers across the state will be partnering with the Oregon State Marine Board and the US Coast Guard to enforce Oregon’s Boating Under the Influence of Intoxicants (BUII) laws this July 4th weekend. 

“Our message is simple. If you boat impaired, you are endangering your life and the lives of others on the water,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager with the Oregon State Marine Board. “There’s a huge risk with no reward, and often innocent people become the victims.” 

Marine officers will specifically be looking for impaired boat operators over the holiday weekend as part of the national Operation Dry Water Campaign. Many marine officers have completed specialized training to recognize alcohol and drug impairment. This includes prescription drugs, alcohol, inhalants, marijuana, or any other substance that impairs a person’s ability to make good judgment and safely operate any boat. The effects of drugs and alcohol are also amplified on the water with the combination of sun glare, wind, waves, and other environmental stressors. Alcohol also dehydrates the body making sudden immersion into cold water at an even greater risk of drowning. 

Impaired boaters can expect to be arrested or face serious penalties. In Oregon, the consequences of being convicted of BUII include the possibility of jail time, $6,250 in fines, loss of boating privileges, and a one-to-three-year suspension of the boater education card. Marine officers can arrest boaters on observed impairment and can legally obtain blood, breath, or urine if a boater fails standardized field sobriety testing. 

“Recreating responsibly doesn’t just mean boating sober. Be a courteous boater, and wear your lifejacket,” Paulsen adds. “Waterways are becoming more crowded with a variety of mixed boating and other activities, so it’s important to pay attention to what’s going on around you and for everyone to follow the navigation rules of the road.” 

“If boaters changed two things; wear life jackets and abstain from impairing substances, boating fatalities would be reduced by more than half,” says Paulsen. “Oregon’s waters can be challenging enough to navigate for a sober boater.”  

If you see an impaired operator or someone who is operating in a way that threatens others’ safety, call 911 and report it.  Paulsen says, “We can work together to save lives. See something, say something.”   

For more information about Operation Dry Water, visit www.operationdrywater.org.

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The following enforcement partners are participating in Operation Dry Water 2022: Baker County Sheriff's Office, Coos County Sheriff's Office, Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Klamath County Sheriff's Office, Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Linn County Sheriff's Office, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, USCG Sector North Bend, USCG Station Chetco River, USCG Station Coos Bay, USCG Station Depoe Bay, USCG Station Portland, USCG Station Siuslaw River, USCG Station Tillamook Bay, and USCG Station Yaquina Bay.

Date: Thursday, July 14, 2022

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-45

Event Website:  https://www.scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_july_14_black_holes/

If light can’t escape from black holes, how do we know where they are and what they’re doing? Black holes formed from dying massive stars are the densest things in the universe. They have ten to 100 times the mass of the Sun crammed into a space that is only tens of miles across. There are also supermassive black holes at the centers of most galaxies (including our own Milky Way galaxy), that are millions to billions of times more massive than the Sun.

Black holes get their name because their gravity is so strong that not even light can escape, so they look black to us. However, we still know where lots of them are. Scientists can find and study black holes from effects they have on the space environment around them. In this talk, astronomer Dr. Abbie Stevens tell us about the ways of finding black holes and learning more about their extreme physics.

Dr. Abbie Stevens is an NSF Astronomy & Astrophysics Postdoctoral Fellow at Michigan State University and the University of Michigan. She studies black holes and neutron stars by looking at X-ray light coming from stars they’re eating. Alongside this research, Abbie is involved in X-ray space telescopes, science advising on creative projects, open-source software development, astronomy data science, science literacy education, and mental health initiatives in academia.

Science on Tap is a science lecture series where you can sit back, drink a pint, and enjoy learning. Listen to experts talk about the science in your neighborhood and around the world. You don't have to be a science geek to have fun--all you need is a thirst for knowledge! For more information on this event or about Science on Tap, visit Science on Tap OR WA.

June 30, 2022

Contact: Philip Schmidt, 503-383-6079, PHILIP.SCHMIDT@dhsoha.state.or.us  (media inquiries)

Jaime Taylor, 503.689.7926, jaime.taylor@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

Health Care Workforce Committee to meet July 6th via Zoom meeting

What: A public meeting of the Health Care Workforce Committee.

When: Wednesday, July 6^th, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30pm. Public comment will be heard at 9:40-9:50 am.

Where: Virtual Meeting Only. The public can join remotely via Zoom or a conference line. To join via Zoom: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1603656532?pwd=Vk9mTlFMUld6aWg0RUlMUWNRV1pxUT09

To dial in via audio only into the meeting on a mobile device, use the following number:

+16692545252,,1603656532#,,,,994911# US (San Jose)

Agenda: Convene HCWF Committee, Approval of the May 2022 Meeting Summary, Public Comment, OHPB and OHA Updates, Update: HB 4003 Nursing Workforce Shortage Study, Update and Presentation: Future Ready Oregon, Update and Discussion: Behavioral Health Workforce Initiative, Timing and Planning on Upcoming Reports, Presentation and Discussion: Planning Efforts around the Long-Term Care Workforce, Adjourn

For more information, please visit the committee’s website at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/HP-HCW/Pages/Meetings.aspx.

  The committee is particularly interested in hearing from community members on the matters discussed by the committee and other topics the public wishes the committee to consider.  The committee sets aside a portion of the meeting to hear directly from the public.  If you wish to offer public comment, we appreciate you letting Jaime Taylor know in advance of the meeting, at Jaime.taylor@dhsoha.state.or.us. Advance notice is not required in order to offer public comment at the meeting.  

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 Jaime Taylor at 503.689.7926, 711 TTY, jaime.taylor@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

June 30, 2022

Contacts: 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 (meeting information or accommodation)

Oregon Health Policy Board meets July 5 via Zoom

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

When: July 5, 8:30 a.m. to noon

Where: Virtual meeting only. The public can join remotely via Zoom or a conference line. To join via Zoom: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1604737337?pwd=WEJFeWJick9oVCsrT0RwcjEwaWdWZz09

To call in to the meeting on a mobile device, use the following number:

+16692545252,, 1604737337#,,,,,,0#,, 136235#

Proposed topics for the meeting agenda are listed below. The final meeting agenda and supporting materials will be posted on the OHPB website prior to the meeting. 

Agenda:

1. Roll Call, Welcome & Minutes Approval;
2. Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Director Updates;
3. Oregon Health Plan Redeterminations;
4. OHA Health Policy & Analytics Division Update;
5. Public Comment;
6. OHA Behavioral Health Updates;
7. OHA Ombuds 2021 Annual Report;
8. Closing Comments & Meeting Adjourn;

To provide public comment, please submit your request for public comment at least 48 hours prior to the meeting at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/OHPB-Public-Comment

For more information and meeting materials, please visit the OHPB meeting webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/OHPB/Pages/index.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
• CART (Communication Access Real-time Translation)
• 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.

ESTACADA, Ore. – David Bugni and his wife, Mary Ann, believe in leaving the forest on their land near Estacada in Clackamas County better than they found it. The Bugnis’ careful stewardship has earned them the 2022 Oregon Tree Farmer of the Year title.

The award was bestowed last week by the non-profit Oregon Tree Farm System (OTFS). Runners up were Linn County landowners Mike and Jo Barsotti. 

Steve and Wylda Cafferata are co-chairs of the OTFS Board. They said, “The Oregon Tree Farm System's membership is proud of Mary Ann and David Bugni's stewardship. We celebrate it both as an excellent example of active management and as representative of the good work all dedicated small woodland owners do to promote forest health and the values of wood, water, wildlife and recreation. Mary Ann and David ably fulfill the OTFS purpose of making Oregon better, one acre at a time.”

For more than a decade, the Bugnis have planted about 500 tree seedlings of diverse native species each year on their property. In 2014, the Bugnis thinned a 20-acre parcel of 60-year-old Douglas-fir on their property. The harvest generated 238,000 board feet of saw logs along with 258 tons of pulp. They followed up by planting 2,000 Douglas-fir seedlings as replacements and 1,000 western redcedar in shadier areas. They also work to protect the native ecosystem by keeping out invasive species, such as holly, blackberry and reed canary grass.

To benefit wildlife, each year they girdle seven trees to create snags. Many birds and mammals, build nests in the dead trees or use them as hunting perches. The snags are also food for a variety of insects eaten by woodpeckers. 

Improving fish habitat is also important to the Bugnis. They are involved with the Clackamas River Basin Council’s “Shade Our Streams” program. As part of that program, they have planted over 6,000 native deciduous and conifer trees and shrubs along over 1,800 feet of Suter Creek, which runs through their land. In 2015, David obtained a grant from PGE ($295,660 plus $83,403 of in-kind donations of services and materials) to replace two, 6-foot diameter twin, fish-blocking culverts within Suter Creek with a new, precast concrete bridge. The following year he received the Cole Gardiner Stewardship Award from CRBC for “Outstanding efforts in stewardship of the Clackamas River watershed.”

“The Bugnis model a responsible, sustainable approach to forest management,” said Oregon State Forester Cal Mukumoto. Their work provides great examples for other landowners who want to manage for both wood products and the environmental benefits forests provide.”

In 2019, David secured a large grant from PGE’s Clackamas River Hydroelectric Project Mitigation and Enhancement Fund (over $207,000 plus $48,550 of in-kind donations). The grant paid for the placement of 95 logs (via helicopter due to lack of road access) along about one mile of Suter Creek. Bugni got agreement from four different property owners for the project. Combined, the two projects have restored two miles of Suter Creek and opened up over five miles of creek to migrating salmon and steelhead. 

David shares his knowledge of practical forest management in articles for the Clackamas County Farm Forestry Association, whose board of directors he has been on since 2019. He also lets students from the Fisheries Technology Program at Mt. Hood Community College perform their term-long capstone research project on his land, allowing them to collect data on stream and woodland conditions.

Prior to the pandemic he presented information about stream-crossings for woodland owners at the Tree School held at Clackamas Community College. And he was co-presenter in 2020 with Dave Stewart from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife on fish habitat restoration for forestland owners. 

Rick Zenn, Director of the Oregon Small Woodlands Association, summed up the Bugnis’ impact: “The greater community is very well served by the Bugnis' effort to educate the public and share their work. They are excellent representatives of family forest owners, demonstrating the public benefits that forest stewardship provides. Their ongoing efforts are yielding good outcomes. They are true community leaders.” 

                                                            # # #

SALEM, Ore. — The Committee for Family Forestlands will meet virtually Thursday, July 7 from 9 a.m. to noon. To join the virtual meeting, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment at this virtual meeting, please email estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Forest Resources Division update
• Presentation plan to Board of Forestry
• Small Forestland Grant Program update
• SB762 projects to date discussion
• Recruitment for Northwest Oregon region committee member

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Zoom. Public comments will be accepted near the start of the meeting. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 72 hours before the meeting by emailing estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

The 13-member committee researches policies that affect family forests, natural resources and forestry benefits. Based on its findings, the committee recommends actions to the Oregon Board of Forestry and the State Forester. View more information on the CFF webpage.

The Willamette Water Supply System Commission Board meeting will be held Thursday July 7, 2022, at 12:00 noon.

An executive session will be held at 11:30 AM under ORS 192.660(2)(f) to consider information or records that are exempt by law from public inspection, ORS 192.660(2)(h) to consult with counsel concerning the legal rights and duties of a public body with regard to current litigation or litigation likely to be filed and ORS 192.660(2)(e) to conduct deliberations with persons designated by the governing body to negotiate real property transactions.

Location: This meeting will not be held at a physical location. If you wish to attend remotely, please contact ehms@tvwd.org">annette.rehms@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957 by 10:00am on July 7, 2022.

If you wish to address the WWSS Board, please request the Public Comment Form and return it 48 hours prior to the day of the meeting.  

The Board meeting agenda packet and additional information regarding the WWSS are available on the Willamette Water Supply System Commission website: 

https://www.tvwd.org/administration/page/willamette-water-supply-system-commission

TIP OF THE WEEK

Date:           June 30, 2022                FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:       Sheriff Curtis L. Landers

                   (541) 265-0654

                   lcsheriff@co.lincoln.or.us

                                                               FIREWORKS SAFETY

The Fourth of July is just a few days away which means fireworks and celebration. While this year Oregon and our local communities haven’t been encountering very dry conditions, it is still possible that the weather during these months will be a bit dryer in some areas. This increases the potential for fire hazard. Fireworks are recognized as a celebratory activity by many, however, there are some very important safety measures to consider while using and displaying them. Here are some important tips to remember to ensure a safe holiday celebration. 

It is extremely important to know the difference between a legal consumer firework and a dangerous explosive device. Illegal items in Oregon include any firework that flies into the air, explodes or behaves in an uncontrolled or unpredicted manner. Some examples include: Firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, bottle rockets, or any other article of similar construction or any article containing any explosive or inflammable compound. 

Any tablets or other device containing any explosive substances or inflammable compound are also not legal in Oregon without a permit. Items such as M-80s, M-100s and blockbusters are not fireworks, they are federally banned explosives. They can cause serious injury or even death. Stay away from anything that isn't clearly labeled with the name of the item, the manufacturer's name and instructions for proper use.

Pets are more sensitive to loud noises and flashing lights and strong smells. It is best to leave your pest safely indoors, preferably with a radio or TV turned on to soften jarring noises. If you cannot leave your pet indoors, keep them leashed and under your direct control at all times. Safeguard your pet with a collar and ID tag and possibly a microchip update with your current contact information. 

All fireworks are prohibited in all state parks and on ocean beaches.

Possession of illegal fireworks in Oregon is a Class B Misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $10,000 and/or six months in jail. If you are aware of anyone selling such devices, contact your local law enforcement agency.

Fireworks are not toys. NEVER give fireworks to young children. Close adult supervision of all fireworks activities is mandatory. Even sparklers can be unsafe if used improperly. 

Read and follow all warnings and instructions on fireworks. Be sure that people maintain a safe distance from where fireworks are ignited. Never light and throw any fireworks. Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from buildings, dry leaves, and flammable materials. Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned. Keep a bucket of water handy in case of a malfunction and fire dangers due to current drought conditions. Please be mindful. 

Please have a safe Fourth of July.

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.

GRESHAM, Ore. – Gresham is excited to celebrate the first Fire Academy graduation ceremony since November of 2020. Taking place on June 30 at 1 p.m. in the City Council Chambers of City Hall, twelve recruits will be graduating and joining the Gresham Fire and Emergency Services Department as of July 1.

“We are very proud of the work this class has put in already”, says Captain Travis Soles. “We’re excited to see them go out on the line at this critical time when the demands of the summer are already upon us.” 

The Fire Academy, taught by the Gresham Fire Training Division, is a three-month process that is designed to transform a new employee with no previous experience into a Firefighter II ranking. During the course of the three-month academy, recruits are taught individual skills, such as deploying and loading a hose, raising various sized ladders, connecting to hydrants, search techniques, salvage and overhaul, and working as a team. Additionally, recruits study fire development and behavior and are trained in “Live Fire” to build their comfort in working in an environment that may be new to many of them. 

This format is intentional in order to provide the best opportunity to hire a diverse workforce that is reflective of our community, as opposed to requiring entry-level personnel to come in with a specific level of experience.

Gresham Fire and Emergency Services have been given the approval of City Council to hire an additional twelve firefighters in an effort to continue to fill existing and projected vacancies. 

“We are grateful for the support of our City Council,” said Deputy City Manager Corey Falls. “At a time when public safety is growing increasingly complex, it is important that we not only continue to provide the services our communities need but improve them as well.” 

The job announcement for the additional twelve Fire and Emergency Services positions opens on July 1 with a target of starting the next Fire Academy in March of 2023. 

For more information, please visit GreshamOregon.gov/Jobs 

About Gresham:

Gresham is a welcoming community of hard-working people where tradition meets opportunity in Oregon's fourth largest city. Gresham’s residents care deeply about our roots and are committed to building a vibrant future. Today, Gresham is a dynamic, innovative, and rapidly growing city with a desire to thrive. To learn more, visit www.GreshamOregon.gov or visit us on Twitter at @CityofGresham.

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Special Report: ‘Oregon: The State of Sport’

Portland Business Alliance and Coalition Partners Unveil the Largest Economic Study of Its Kind in the State 

 The new report showcases how Oregon is winning nationally in the Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation Ecosystem 

JUNE 30, 2022—Portland, OR: The Portland Business Alliance, in partnership with a coalition of regional and statewide business associations, is pleased to announce the release of “Oregon: The State of Sport,” a new economic study that highlights Oregon’s competitive advantage and the economic power that the Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation Ecosystem generates for the state.

“This is the first time we’re able to quantify something we’ve all felt to be true: Oregon is the definitive business leader and a regional economic force in the Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation industries,” said Andrew Hoan, President and CEO of the Portland Business Alliance. “It’s inspiring to get a deeper look at the Ecosystem and our distinguishing characteristics, like exceptional industry-trained talent and education programs, that support and allow for these industries to develop, grow, and thrive here.”

“For the last 30 years, the Greater Portland market has been the top choice for apparel and outdoor companies serious about growth and innovation,” said Monique Claiborne, President and CEO of Greater Portland Inc. “If we want to continue to be on top, we must invest in this Ecosystem. This report shows us what we have to gain: more jobs and dollars for our local economies. I look forward to working with both public and private sector leaders to create more opportunities for this industry.”

Conducted by the world-renowned industry-leading real estate and economic development consulting firm HR&A Advisors, the “Oregon: The State of Sport” economic report marks the most robust analysis to date of Oregon’s Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation Ecosystem—defined as including sports and apparel companies as well as internationally known professional sport franchises, sporting-related events, recreation and tourism activities. The study examines Greater Portland, Bend, and Eugene’s unique environment for sports innovation and growth.

“We were thrilled to collaborate with the Portland Business Alliance and a wide array of regional stakeholders to develop the ‘Oregon: The State of Sport’ report,” said Kate Collignon, Partner at HR&A Advisors. “HR&A’s comprehensive economic analysis, coupled with extensive stakeholder input, affirms the tremendous impact of the Athletic, Outdoor, Team, and Recreation industries across Greater Portland and Oregon. State and regional partners have a distinct opportunity to leverage a unique value proposition to attract and sustain world-class talent within this booming hub of activity.”

KEY REPORT TAKEAWAYS:

• Oregon is home to 51,000 jobs and 3,100 businesses in the Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation Ecosystem marked by the Study Area. 
• For every one job in the Ecosystem, an additional 1.55 jobs are created in the economy, supporting a total of 130,000 jobs, or 9% of jobs in Greater Portland. 
• The Ecosystem supports $29 billion per year in economic output, including both direct and spinoff economic impacts.
• Oregon’s Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation Ecosystem supports entrepreneurs and small businesses: 83% of related businesses in the Greater Portland area have 20 employees or less. 
• The Greater Portland area outpaces other West Coast cities (Seattle, Denver and Salt Lake City) in the overall number of jobs, job growth and the diversity of roles—many of which are high-paying and high-skilled. 
• The most valued asset in Oregon’s Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation industries is unparalleled industry-trained talent—the ability to import top talent, recruit local talent thanks to the healthy ecosystem of sport, and cultivate a strong pipeline of talent from established programs and education. 

“When we think of a ​healthy, prosperous, and competitive Oregon that improves lives today and into the future, Oregon’s Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation Ecosystem is unquestionably a part of the story,” said Angela Wilhelms, President & CEO of Oregon Business & Industry. “The contributions companies small and large in this Ecosystem have made are extraordinary, and we must continue to leverage this strength and use findings from this study to propel our entire state forward.”

“There’s never been a more exciting or important time to celebrate the business of sport and recreation of all kinds across Oregon. This study further affirms our efforts to support existing sports teams—both professional and college—and to attract new teams, events, and businesses that add economic value and jobs to our region and the state. Ultimately these efforts will result in a greater quality of life for Oregonians and tourists,” added Jim Etzel, CEO at Sport Oregon. 

The “Oregon: The State of Sport” economic report will be unveiled today at the Portland Business Alliance’s Annual Meeting, presented by U.S. Bank, which is committed to investing in the future of our communities.

“It's an exciting time for Oregon. We see legacy industries continue to thrive and emerging industries gaining a strong foothold across the region. Our state has long been the birthplace of many companies in the Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation sectors, growing their own and drawing creative talent from around the world to build and expand the segment,” said Stacey Dodson, Oregon and Southwest Washington Market Executive at U.S. Bank. “Industries like this create jobs, support our vital small business community, and attract those who have a passion for the Oregon lifestyle.”

The full report is available at OregonStateofSport.com. We encourage you to review and celebrate the findings by using the hashtag #ORStateofSport.

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About the Portland Business Alliance. The Portland Business Alliance – Greater Portland's Chamber of Commerce – was founded in 1870 and represents the largest, most diverse business network in the region. The Alliance brings together more than 2,100 members represented by dynamic and varied employers from around the Portland region, and offers a strong source of support, information, advocacy, engagement and professional development opportunities. Grounded in its mission to create opportunity and advance well-being for all who live and work in the Greater Portland and SW Washington region, the Alliance envisions a healthy and resilient business ecosystem where we work together to increase collaboration in governance; engage community; increase civic leadership; and, advocate for a vibrant, livable region for all. 

About HR&A Advisors. HR&A Advisors, Inc. (HR&A) is an employee-owned company advising public, private, non-profit, and philanthropic clients on how to increase opportunity and advance quality of life in cities. We believe in creating vital places, building more equitable and resilient communities, and improving people’s lives. 

On June 29, 2022 at approximately 2035 hours Clark County Sheriff's Office deputies, North County EMS and Fire District 10 personnel responded to the 16700 block of NE Grantham Road on the report of an injury collision.

Preliminary investigation determined a motorcyclist was travelling westbound on NE Grantham Road when the rider crossed the center-line and collided with an oncoming 2016 Ford Expedition.  The driver of the Expedition was not injured in the collision.  The motorcyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Clark County Sheriff's Office Traffic Unit is investigating the collision.  No further information or names will be released at this time pending notifications to next of kin.  Excessive speed is believed to be causing factor at this time. 

June 29, 2022

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

OHA releases biweekly COVID-19 reports

The COVID-19 Biweekly Data Report, released today, shows a decrease in COVID-19-related cases, hospitalizations and deaths since the previous biweekly period.

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) reported 20,451 new cases of COVID-19 from June 12 to June 25, a 2.8% decrease over the previous biweekly total of 21,038. Over the last six weeks, reported hospitalizations and deaths have increased slightly.

During the two-week period of June 12 to June 25, test positivity was 13.6%, up from 12.3% in the previous two-week period.

Today’s COVID-19 Biweekly Outbreak Report shows 193 active outbreaks in care facilities, senior living communities and congregate care living settings with three or more confirmed COVID-19 cases or one or more COVID-19-related deaths.

Reporting of hospital capacity data moves to weekly schedule

The cadence of OHA’s COVID-19 hospitalization and hospital capacity reporting will change starting July 1. Data on the COVID-19 hospital capacity dashboards, as well as counts of current COVID-19-positive hospitalized patients published on the COVID-19 Update dashboard and on social media, will be updated weekly on Wednesdays. The first weekly update to the COVID-19 hospital capacity dashboards, scheduled for July 6, will also feature enhancements to make the dashboards accessible to more users.

Updates made to Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Vaccination Dashboard

Starting today, OHA’s Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Vaccination Dashboard will show the proportion of staff and residents who are up to date with COVID-19 vaccination and residents who have received a second booster dose. The dashboard already provides existing information about primary series vaccination. The updates allow OHA to continue to track vaccination efforts at nursing, assisted living and residential care facilities licensed by the Oregon Department of Human Services’ (ODHS) Office of Aging and People with Disabilities. The dashboard will continue to be updated on a weekly basis.

Long-term care facilities are required to report COVID-19 vaccination data to the state, effective June 1, 2021.

During the week of June 6 – June 12, 50% of staff and 73% of residents were reported as up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. For residents, 26% were reported as receiving a second booster dose. For this reporting, persons are up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines when they have received all doses in the primary series and one booster dose, when eligible, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Healthcare Safety Network. This definition is expected to incorporate recommended second boosters to be considered up to date, in the next quarter.

Progress has been made by Oregon long-term care facilities in surpassing the state 80% benchmark for COVID-19 primary series vaccination, especially among staff, with 87% of staff completing their primary vaccine series compared to 62% last year. However, given residents and staff are ever-changing, OHA and ODHS continue to collaborate with facilities, labor, trade associations and pharmacies to promote receipt of initial series and booster doses for long-term care staff and residents who are eligible.

OHA updates population data

Starting today, OHA has updated rates published in COVID-19 reports using 2021 population data from Portland State University’s (PSU) Population Research Center and 2020 data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS). These changes affected the Biweekly Data Report and COVID-19 Tableau dashboards.

OHA had previously been using 2020 population data from PSU and 2019 data from the ACS to calculate rates.

Case rates by the following demographic groups will be affected:

• Sex
• Age group
• Race
• Ethnicity
• County

Vaccination rates by the following demographic groups will be affected:

• Sex
• Age group
• County
• ZIP code tabulation area

Population estimates by rarest race and ethnicity, which are only used for COVID-19 vaccination rates, will be updated at a future date.

This update will ensure that OHA is displaying and sharing the most up-to-date and accurate information available for case, testing and vaccination rates in specific populations that have changed in the last year. Case, testing and vaccination rates may shift slightly because of this change.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective at protecting people from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized and dying. The CDC recommends a COVID-19 primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older, and COVID-19 boosters for everyone ages 5 years and older, if eligible. For more information on where to get a vaccine or your booster dose in Oregon, click here. 

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

Salem, OR – The Marion County Fair is delighted to be back July 8-10 at the Oregon State Fair and Expo Center. After a smaller county fair in 2021, this year promises more animals, more attractions, and more entertainment for the entire family.

“We are so excited to have the Marion County Fair back in full swing this year,” says Marion County Fair Board Chair Mike Adams. “The animals are back, and the barns are full. There are new things to see, more food, more activities, great music, and hours of great entertainment all weekend.”

Marion County youth have been working hard and are ready to show off. This year, 436 students have 2,850 livestock and creative project entries. Sheep, goats, swine, horses, llamas, cattle, poultry, rabbits, and cavies will fill the barns and will be on display all weekend for fair goers.

Rising country star, Breland, takes to the Main Stage Friday night with his wildly catchy hybrid of Hip-Hop and Country. On Saturday night, Frank Ray will thrill audiences with his stunning country vocals and his Southwest Spice. Local talent will also be showcased on the Main Stage all weekend.

A special treat for the over 21 crowd can be found in The Woods, the fair’s hidden hot spot with a full bar and even more music from The Junebugs and Gabriel Cox.

On Saturday, Ag Day celebrates all things agriculture related. There will be Sheep Dog Arena Trials and the 4H Junior Livestock Auction. Sunday is Family Fun Day. There is a surprise around every corner for all ages plus all kids 11 and under are free.

This year has your favorite treats, like Dairy Women Ice Cream and Bob’s curly fries, but food vendor choices also range from Mexican to German to classic BBQ. A larger carnival this year will also include a Ferris wheel.

All day attractions, included with fair admission, are: All-Alaskan Racing Pigs, Puzzlemania, sheriff demos, Brad’s World Reptiles, STEAM Quest game, Flyball Racing Dogs, authors’ table, strolling entertainment, Kid Fit obstacle course, and our Real Heroes display.

“Parking is free, and we have plenty, encouraged Adams. "Come on out and celebrate with us.” 

Summer fun is made in Marion!

For questions about the fair, contact Jill Ingalls at 541-979-0919.

Auto vs. Commercial Motor Vehicle Collision on NE Hwy 99W at NE Riverside Drive

June 29, 2022

Press Release

On June 28, 2022 at approximately 03:05 p.m., McMinnville Police and Fire Department personnel responded to a reported Auto versus CMV (Commercial Motor Vehicle) collision on NE Hwy 99W at NE Riverside Drive, McMinnville.

Initial investigation revealed that Michael David Page (70yoa) of McMinnville was attempting to turn southbound onto NE Hwy 99W from NE Riverside Drive, when his vehicle, a 2008 Mazda Miata, was struck by a northbound 1993 Peterbilt log truck owned by Alyash LLC and operated by Donald Robert Edward Skala (45yoa) of Yamhill, Oregon. Tragically, Michael David Page did not survive the collision. Mr. Skala was not seriously injured in the collision and is fully cooperating with the investigation.

This press release was delayed purposefully to assure immediate family of Mr. Page was appropriately notified.

This fatal traffic collision occurred in an active highway work/construction zone. Drivers should reduce speeds and utilize due caution in active work/construction zones, as workers and equipment may be present and visibility of potential hazards may be reduced. 

Drivers of passenger vehicles should be aware that caution should be utilized around CMV’s by being patient, giving additional space and avoiding blind spots, anticipating wide turns, and understanding long stopping or emergency braking distances associated with CMV’s.

The McMinnville Police Department was assisted by members of the Yamhill County Multi-Agency Traffic Team which consists of law enforcement officers of the Oregon State Police, Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office, Newberg-Dundee Police Department, and Yamhill Police Department. In addition, the Oregon Department of Transportation, Yamhill County Public Works, and McMinnville Public Works assisted with the lengthy investigative road closure.

The incident remains under investigation by the Yamhill County Multi-Agency Traffic Team. If you should have any information in relation to the incident, contact Sergeant Steve Macartney at (503)435-5622 or steve.macartney@mcminnvilleoregon.gov

June 29, 2022

​The City of Mt. Angel lost its Mayor, Don Fleck, who died of natural causes at his home on Sunday, June 26, 2022. Mayor Fleck has been serving in capacity as the Mayor for the past 1 ½ years and has been a significant leader for the community for many years before his death.  Mayor Fleck served 2 terms as City Councilor prior to running for and becoming the City’s current Mayor.  Mayor Fleck volunteered his time and service to the members of this community tirelessly, willingly, and humbly.

Mayor Fleck’s last items of attention prior to his untimely death were negotiating with property owners for easements, to complete the City’s West Marquam Sanitary Sewer Trunk Line Project.  Mayor Fleck had a particular interest in public works projects and headed up the City’s Infrastructure Task Force in 2011, which established a roadmap of projects to improve City infrastructure (water, sewer, and streets).

Mayor Fleck was a force, advocating for small business and for community members buy local, in order to support local residents and their businesses.  Mayor Fleck was a strong supporter of the annual Oktoberfest, and everything that went into making it a success every year.  During and after the lifting of restrictions as a result of COVID 19, Mayor Fleck hosted meetings of Mt. Angel and community leaders once a month virtually, in order to foster good communication between organizations and people and to deliver excellent service to the members of the community.  Mayor Fleck was always complimentary of others and recognized the efforts made to continue or improve service provided in Mt. Angel.

Mayor Fleck was a man of compassion and thought.  He was a great communicator and friend to all that he encountered.  Mayor Fleck was well respected and will be missed by all who knew and worked with him.  As mentioned in his obituary, “His awards and accolades are numerous.  His strong and humble life was a blessing to those who knew him and a gift to those who loved him”.   Mourning bands are being worn by all Mt. Angel Police Officers and the City’s American Flag at City Hall is being flown at half-staff in honor of Mayor Fleck and his service to the community.

Services for Mayor Fleck are Friday July 1, 2022, Noon, Graveside service at Calvary Cemetery, Mt. Angel.  A 1:00 PM Memorial Service at the Mt. Angel Festhalle will follow. The City of Mt. Angel City Hall and Public Works will be closed at 11:00 AM on July 1, 2022 to allow staff to attend the funeral and memorial services.

Donations in honor of Mayor Fleck may be made to the Mt. Angel Volunteer Firefighters Association, & the Salem Professional Firefighters. Services provided by Unger Funeral Chapel.

###

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Phoenyx Cannon, she/her, age 15, a child in foster care who went missing from Troutdale, Oregon on May 9, 2022. She is believed to be in danger. 

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Phoenyx and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see her. 

Phoenyx is suspected to be in the Portland, Oregon region, specifically Troutdale, downtown Portland, or Gresham. She is known to spend time at parks, Portland downtown area and homeless encampments.  

Name: Phoenyx Cannon 
Pronouns: she/her 
Date of birth: May 1, 2007  
Height: 5-foot-9 
Weight: 240 pounds  
Hair: Brown 
Eye color: Brown  
Other identifying information: Phoenyx was last seen in a white T-shirt, basketball shorts and Nike slides.  
Portland Police Bureau report number #2022-118456 
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #1451077 

A small number of children in foster care may be in significant danger when they run away or have gone missing. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and ensure their safety. Media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child. 

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.  

June 29, 2022

​The City of Mt. Angel lost its Mayor, Don Fleck, who died of natural causes at his home on Sunday, June 26, 2022. Mayor Fleck has been serving in capacity as the Mayor for the past 1 ½ years and has been a significant leader for the community for many years before his death.  Mayor Fleck served 2 terms as City Councilor prior to running for and becoming the City’s current Mayor.  Mayor Fleck volunteered his time and service to the members of this community tirelessly, willingly, and humbly.

Mayor Fleck’s last items of attention prior to his untimely death were negotiating with property owners for easements, to complete the City’s West Marquam Sanitary Sewer Trunk Line Project.  Mayor Fleck had a particular interest in public works projects and headed up the City’s Infrastructure Task Force in 2011, which established a roadmap of projects to improve City infrastructure (water, sewer, and streets).

Mayor Fleck was a force, advocating for small business and for community members buy local, in order to support local residents and their businesses.  Mayor Fleck was a strong supporter of the annual Oktoberfest, and everything that went into making it a success every year.  During and after the lifting of restrictions as a result of COVID 19, Mayor Fleck hosted meetings of Mt. Angel and community leaders once a month virtually, in order to foster good communication between organizations and people and to deliver excellent service to the members of the community.  Mayor Fleck was always complimentary of others and recognized the efforts made to continue or improve service provided in Mt. Angel.

Mayor Fleck was a man of compassion and thought.  He was a great communicator and friend to all that he encountered.  Mayor Fleck was well respected and will be missed by all who knew and worked with him.  As mentioned in his obituary, “His awards and accolades are numerous.  His strong and humble life was a blessing to those who knew him and a gift to those who loved him”.   Mourning bands are being worn by all Mt. Angel Police Officers and the City’s American Flag at City Hall is being flown at half-staff in honor of Mayor Fleck and his service to the community.

Services for Mayor Fleck are Friday July 1, 2022, Noon, Graveside service at Calvary Cemetery, Mt. Angel.  A 1:00 PM Memorial Service at the Mt. Angel Festhalle will follow. The City of Mt. Angel City Hall and Public Works will be closed at 11:00 AM on July 1, 2022 to allow staff to attend the funeral and memorial services.

Donations in honor of Mayor Fleck may be made to the Mt. Angel Volunteer Firefighters Association, & the Salem Professional Firefighters. Services provided by Unger Funeral Chapel.

###

BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS & TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 28, 2022, in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Shelby Alexander at (503) 378-2191 or shelby.alexander@dpsst.oregon.gov. 

The meeting will be live-streamed on the DPSST Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/DPSSTOregon/ 

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Minutes

Approve minutes from the April 28, 2022, Meeting

3. Fire Policy Committee

a. Fire Policy Committee Update – James Oeder, Chair

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

A. Brett Andry DPSST #25852 (North Douglas County Fire & EMS and Fair Oaks Rural Fire Protection District) – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on May 25, 2022.

B. Tammy Russell DPSST #41566 (Pilot Rock Rural Fire Protection District) – No Action

6 (six) to 1(one) vote, with one member abstaining, to recommend to the Board by the FPC on May 25, 2022.

C. Lemont Southworth DPSST #34547 (Upper McKenzie Rural Fire Protection District) – No Action

Unanimous vote, with one member abstaining, to recommend to the Board by the FPC on May 25, 2022.

D. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-009-0125

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on May 25, 2022.

E. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-009-0005, OAR 259-009-0062 and OAR 259-009-0065

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on May 25, 2022.

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

a. Police Policy Committee Update – John Teague, Chair

b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair

c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Matthew English, Chair

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

A. Anson Alfonso DPSST #60285 (DOC/Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution) – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on May 10, 2022.

B. Alexandrea Cromwell DPSST #61072 (Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office) – Amend

Unanimous vote to have DPSST staff amend the staff report and resubmit the case to the August PPC as an administrative closure on May 19, 2022.

C. Ashley Dalton DPSST #59197 (Lake Oswego Police Department) – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on May 19, 2022.

D. Eric Deitz DPSST #44402 (DOC/Coffee Creek Correctional Facility) – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on May 10, 2022.

E. David Dominy DPSST #43910 (Lebanon Police Department) – No Action

10 (ten) to 1 (one) vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on May 19, 2022.

F. Oscar Estrada-Herrera DPSST #55548 (Washington County Community Corrections) – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on May 10, 2022.

G. Mauro Lopez-Pena DPSST #56695 (Malheur County Sheriff’s Office) – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on May 19, 2022.

H. Juan Mendoza DPSST #60596 (Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office) – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on June 14, 2022.

I. Jeffrey Parnell DPSST #45693 (DOC/Oregon State Penitentiary) – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on May 10, 2022.

J. Daniel Rossetti DPSST #61472 (Washington County Consolidated Communications Agency) – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on May 4, 2022.

K. Michael Schaff DPSST #59573 (Burns Police Department) – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on May 19, 2022.

L. Committee Appointments

Telecommunications Policy Committee Appointments

Joshua Bowerman – Public Member, Appointment to the TPC; 1^st term effective 7/28/2022

Les Thomas – Oregon Fire Chief’s Association Representative, Appointment to the TPC; 1^st term effective 7/28/2022

Travis Ash – Oregon State Sheriff’s Association Representative, Appointment to the TPC; 1^st term effective 7/28/2022

e. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-008-0069 (Tribal Law Enforcement)

     Presented by 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 Appointments

Samantha Schrantz – Private Investigator Representative, Appointment to the PSIPC, 1^st term effective 7/28/2022

Arthur Apodaca – Hospitality Representative, Appointment to the PSIPC, 1^st term effective 7/28/2022

Nate Nakasone – Unarmed Security Representative, Appointment to the PSIPC, 1^st term effective 10/25/2022

6. Polygraph Licensing Advisory Committee Appointments - TBD

     Appointed by Acting Director Brian Henson

     Ratification required by the Board

7. Agency Updates – Acting Director Brian Henson

8. Next Meeting Date: October 27, 2022, at 9:00 a.m.

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 Northwest Power and Conservation Council will meet via webinar next Wednesday and Thursday, July 6-7. See the agenda and instructions for attending the meeting. The Power Committee will not be meeting in July.

Note: There will also be a Council meeting later this month, July 12-13 in Spokane, Washington. We will email again when the agenda is available.
 

AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS:

WEDNESDAY

Fish and Wildlife Committee – 9 am

• Climate change considerations in project planning and implementation
• Nez Perce Tribal Hatchery kelt project update

THURSDAY

Council Meeting – 8:30 am

• Energy and environmental economics study on Lower Snake River dams power replacement

June 29, 2022

Media contact: Aria Seligmann, 503-910-9239, ia.l.seligmann@dhsoha.state.or.us">aria.l.seligmann@dhsoha.state.or.us

Measure 110 Oversight and Accountability Council holds public meeting July 6, 2022

What: A public meeting of the Drug Treatment and Recovery Act (Measure 110) Oversight and Accountability Council

Agenda: The council will vote on BHRN applications. Agenda will be posted on the Oversight and Accountability Council web page prior to the meeting.

When: Wednesday, July 6, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Where: Virtual https://youtu.be/dgkVXiIWdoU

Purpose: The Drug Treatment and Recovery Act (Measure 110) Oversight and Accountability Council oversees the establishment of Behavioral Health Resource Networks throughout Oregon. The OAC holds regular meetings to accomplish the necessary steps to fund and set up the networks.

Read more about the OAC. Read more about Measure 110.

Questions? Contact e110@dhsoha.state.or.us">OHA.Measure110@dhsoha.state.or.us

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

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

If you need help or have questions, please contact Jessica Carroll at 503-580-9883, 711 TTY or roll@dhsoha.state.or.us">jessica.a.carroll@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

[Salem, OR] - Public health officials are warning area residents to take precautions after a bat with rabies was found in a home located in the Marion area of Marion County, Ore. The bat was tested on Tuesday, June 28, at the Oregon State University, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.

According to Oregon Health Authority, bats are the most common carriers of rabies in this state.  About 8-10% of the bats tested for rabies are positive every year.  So far, in 2022, three bats have tested positive for rabies in Oregon.

Authorities emphasize the main protection for humans is to make sure pets are vaccinated, and avoid contact with stray animals and wildlife. Public health officials advise taking extreme precautions before attempting to handle a bat. If it is necessary to pick up a bat, it is best to wear heavy gloves, use a shovel or both. 

Do not approach bats, wildlife, or other mammals seen exhibiting odd behavior.  Sick bats may be seen flopping around on the ground or otherwise acting unusual. If you find a sick bat or other sick wildlife on your property, take children and pets indoors.

If you do have an exposure (e.g., scratch or bite) from a bat, immediately clean the wound and seek medical attention. Report the incident to Marion County at 503-588-5346. If the bat has been captured, do not crush the bat or throw it away, as intact bats can be tested for rabies, which can help people avoid needing post-exposure rabies shots. 

If your pet has encountered a bat or been bitten by a wild animal, contact your veterinarian immediately or call the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife at 866-968-2600.

For more information about rabies, please visit the Oregon Health Authority, Public Health Division website at: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/RABIES/Pages/rabies.aspx

Or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at:  https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/index.html

Portland, OR — On special exhibit at the Oregon Historical Society (OHS) for this weekend only are two unique objects from OHS’s museum collection. From July 1 through July 5, visitors will have the rare opportunity to view the Afro-American Heritage Bicentennial Commemorative Quilt and what is believed to be the first U.S. flag raised in Portland after Oregon became a state.

The Afro-American Heritage Bicentennial Commemorative Quilt was last on view at OHS in October 2020, in a special display developed in partnership with Portland Textile Month. Each square of the quilt, crafted from 1974 to 1976 in honor of the American Bicentennial, honors a Black individual or moment in history. Fifteen Black women from Portland sewed the quilt, who later donated it to OHS and entrusted it to the Society’s care. Less than a week after it had been put on public view, on October 11, 2020, vandals shattered windows in OHS’s pavilion and stole the quilt from its display. Police found it and returned it the next morning, stained and soaking wet from the rain. 

OHS collections staff immediately laid out the drenched textile on top of clean, cotton, undyed towels on a flat surface to stabilize this important piece of Oregon history. While the quilt fortunately had not suffered major structural damage (rips, areas of fabric loss, etc.), there was significant, red-colored staining either due to the red fabric bleeding from moisture or from contact from the red paint protestors had used. Once the quilt was dry and stabilized, collections staff sent it to Textile Conservation Workshop (TCW) to begin conservation of the quilt to work to restore it to its original condition. The process was time-consuming and costly and required the quilt to be disassembled — each quilt block removed from the backing, batting, and binding. TCW only used conservation-quality products and materials and took the time to sew along the original stitch lines with all the quilt blocks in their original locations, and the newly restored quilt that visitors will see this weekend is beautiful.

OHS is also thrilled to exhibit for the first time in nearly a decade what is believed to be the very first American flag raised in Portland after Oregon became a state. Ann Elizabeth Bills, who sewed the flag, and her husband, Cincinnati Bills, traveled from Indiana to Oregon in 1853. Mr. Bills started Portland’s first hauling business, which became the Oregon Transfer Company. In 1861, Mrs. Bills was asked to sew an American flag to celebrate Independence Day. The flag, which was last displayed at OHS in 2013, has been well-preserved by museum collections staff since it was first flown on 4th Avenue in Portland on July 4, 1861.  

For those unable to visit the museum in person, the Afro-American Heritage Bicentennial Commemorative Quilt (064797fhttps://museumcollection.ohs.org/argus/ohs/Portal/portal.aspx?component=AAAI&record=addb5928-9e79-4eb0-8e72-a8eab064797f">OHS Museum, 77-57.1) and the Bills flag (OHS Museum, 61-133) are available to view on OHS’s Museum Collection Portal (museumcollection.ohs.org) — a public, online database highlighting the incredible objects in the museum’s care. OHS’s museum preserves over 75,000 objects that document the history of the region, which includes clothing and textiles, Native American belongings, artworks, vehicles, equipment, and everyday items. When the Portal launched in January 2022, in provided access to the records for over 10,000 of these objects, with new records being added regularly. 

The Oregon Historical Society’s museum hours this weekend are 10am to 5pm Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 5pm Sunday, and 10am to 5pm Tuesday (closed Monday in observance of the July 4 holiday). Admission to view these objects is free, while regular museum admission applies to visit OHS’s other current exhibitions.

About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than a century, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms & website (www.ohs.org), educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and rich as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view. 

June 29, 2022

Contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@odhsoha.oregon.gov

OHA accepting applications for Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division is seeking applicants for the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee (MMRC).

OHA invites applications from individuals who meet the criteria outlined in ORS 432.600. Applicants can find information about the Oregon MMRC, including a link to the full 2018 house bill text, at: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HEALTHYPEOPLEFAMILIES/DATAREPORTS/Pages/Maternal-Mortality-Morbidity-Review-Committee.aspx

Board members are appointed by the Governor and members serve terms of four years each. To apply, complete the electronic application process by Aug. 10, 2022, at https://www.oregon.gov/gov/Pages/board-list.aspx.

Note that only completed applications will be processed and considered for appointment. The application site lists items needed to apply, including:

• Uploaded cover letter and resume (PDF only).
• Uploaded short personal bio referencing applicant’s community, professional and/or lived experience related to maternal health promotion (PDF only).
• Responses to the general application and background questions.

Those unable to complete the form electronically should contact the Executive Appointments Office at executive.appointments@oregon.gov for assistance.

For more information, email the OHA Public Health Division at ox@state.or.us">mchsection.mailbox@state.or.us or call 971-990-9893.

# # #

From June 2–11, 2022, the Oregon Values and Beliefs Center conducted a statewide survey of Oregonians’ values and beliefs, including attitudes and perceptions about wildfires in Oregon. The question numbers in this document correspond with the survey questionnaire (Q1-9). 

Oregonians Agree: Wildfire is a Concern

As Oregonians often struggle to bridge ideological divides, there is widespread common ground when it comes to concerns about the effects of wildfire in Oregon, regardless of political party, income, education, or age. 

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The majority of Oregonians expect wildfires to increase over the next 10 years (88% of respondents) (Q3A).

People from all areas of Oregon are in strong agreement on this prediction, with 88% of those living in the Tri County area, 88% in the Willamette Valley, and 86% of those living in the rest of the state expecting increased wildfires over the next ten years.

Oregonians with and without school-aged children are also in agreement (88%, 87%). 

“Wildfires have been crazy the past few years and it scares me.”

Woman, age 30-44, Polk County, Asian and White

People are More Concerned About the Threat to Other People Living in Oregon, Than Their Own Personal Risk
 

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Oregonians are most concerned about the risk wildfires pose to people living in Oregon in general, with nine in ten Oregonians saying they see wildfires as a serious threat (92%) (Q1C).

Comparatively, only six in ten Oregonians see wildfire as a very or somewhat serious threat to their local community (60%) (Q1B). five in ten of those polled see wildfires as a direct threat to themselves and their families (53%) (Q1A).

Oregonians are less likely to see wildfire as a direct threat to themselves or their family, although more than half say this is a very or somewhat serious threat (53%) (Q1A).

High Level of Concern is the Same as Last Year

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The high level of concern for the risk of wildfires in Oregon, broadly, did not budge over the past year, with 92% of Oregonians in May of 2021data://9296823F-7B74-4C5C-8D62-26A36D2A5100#_ftn1">^[1] and 93% in June of 2022 seeing wildfires as a threat to people living in the state. 

Considering the extremely wet spring, it is not a major surprise that when asked about their area of Oregon, Oregonians’ concern for wildfire has decreased a bit since May of last year. 

In May of 2021, 58% said they saw wildfire as a threat to themselves and their families. This was 5 points higher than responses from June 2022 (53%). 
A year ago, 68% of Oregonians saw wildfires as a threat to their local community, which was eight points higher than how people feel this year (60%). 

In addition to wildfires, 79% of Oregonians also believe that, over the next ten years, there will be a significant loss to the states forests because of heat and drought (Q3C). Women predict loss of forests from drought and heat at a higher rate than men (85% compared to 72%). 

Wildfire Concerns: Health and Wildlife are Most Important

When presented with a list of potential negative impacts from wildfire, Oregonians’ values appear to align mostly in maintaining our natural resources, health, and wellbeing, with less concern about impacts to recreation or personal property (Q7A-H).Oregonians are most concerned about the health effects of smoke from wildfires (83% of respondents) (Q7E).

When it comes to concerns about smoke, there is no noteworthy difference between those who have school-aged children in their household and those who do not (85%, 83%). Although both women and men are greatly concerned about the health effects of smoke, women are slightly more so (88% compared to 79%).

Loss of wildlife and fish habitat is the possible effect with the second-highest level of concern, with a striking 82% of Oregonians indicating great or moderate concern (Q7C). All Oregonians within the various age groups, political affiliations, counties, education levels, incomes, housing situations, and genders range between 74% and 88% in saying they are concerned about loss of wildlife and fish habitat from wildfires.

Loss of Public Forestland is Also a Top Concern

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Oregonians share a similar level of concern about uncontrolled and high-severity wildfires and loss of public forestland as a result of wildfires (80% and 78%) (Q7D,Q7F).

Concern about uncontrolled and high-severity wildfires remains relatively stable regardless of identity or area of residence, but women are slightly more concerned than men about the loss of public forestland (81% compared to 74%).

Slightly more than six in ten Oregonians worry about lost or diminished recreational opportunities and the cost of firefighting that might result from wildfires (65% and 63%) (Q7B,Q7G).

The lowest levels of concern were for damage to personal property (51%), and reductions in tourism (49%) (Q7A,Q7H).

• Interestingly, and perhaps reflecting the current housing shortage, those who rent and those who own their home are equally concerned when it comes to wildfire-related damage to personal property (Q7A).
• For those who live in rural areas of Oregon, there is more concern about the effects of wildfire-related damage to property than those who live in an urban area (61% compared to 47%) (Q7A).
• When it comes to concerns about the effects of wildfires on tourism, there were no noteworthy response variations between those who live in different areas of Oregon (Q7H).

“Controlled burns and allowing natural caused fires to burn is essential, just because humans are encroaching on nature doesn’t mean people should risk life and limb to protect material possession.”

Man, age 65-74, Deschutes County, White

Strong Support for Protecting Wilderness from Fire

A strong majority of Oregonians (75%) believe that attempts should be made to fight wildfires that break out in wilderness areas far from homes (Q4). 

Those who live in the Willamette Valley show the strongest level of support for fighting wildfires in wilderness areas (83%) compared to the Tri County area (67%) and the rest of Oregon (77%). Those with school-aged children are more supportive of fighting wildfires in wilderness areas than those who do not have school-aged children (81%, 72%). 

Oregonians are in support of fighting the fire particularly if it is human-caused: 

“We can’t just let our state burn to the ground.”

Woman, age 30-44, Polk County, Asian and White

“Every bit of damage we are responsible for and should intervene. We constantly hurt the forest, so letting nature do its thing is not an option.”

Non-binary, age 18-29, Yamhill County, Black or African American and White

“Protect human life. Fires can spread very, very fast.”

Man, age 65-74, Deschutes County, Prefer not to answer race/ethnicity

“I would say if it’s naturally caused and far from homes then let it burn, but only up to a limit, control it and make sure it doesn’t destroy too much land area. And if it’s human causes, fight it.”

Prefer not to share gender, Age 18-29, Deschutes County, Prefer not to answer race/ethnicity

Should Some Wildfires be Left to Burn?

Those Oregonians who believe some wildfires should be left to burn, while in the minority, express a belief that not all fires are bad for the ecosystem. They also say they fear finite resources being used unnecessarily:

“As long as no homes/businesses are affected, then let nature take its course. Fires are good/healthy for forests, so we should let it happen. Also, it would help thin out the forests so that a massive wildfire can be avoided in future years, at least for a while.”

Woman, age 45-54, Tri County, Hispanic/Latino/a/x

“Fire is a natural part of the ecosystem. it clears out undergrowth that fuels future fires. it gets rid of dead, diseased trees. Everything I’ve read suggests that it is a waste of resources and the result of poor management to continue throwing resources–especially manpower–to fight fires that don’t respond very well to the efforts to control.”

Woman, age 75+, Lincoln County, Prefer not to answer race/ethnicity

“Resources and personnel are finite and cannot be everywhere, so they must be focused where they matter.”

Non-binary, age 45-54, Clackamas County, Asian and White

Management of Wildfires

Less than half of Oregonians approve of how wildfires are being managed, either by individual landowners or the government. However, approval numbers for private land management are higher than those of the state or federal government.

Of those polled, just 46% of Oregonians say they believe private landowners are managing their land well to prevent wildfires (Q2A). When asked how well the state is managing state-owned lands to prevent wildfires, the approval rating drops to 39% (Q2B). The lowest approval rating among Oregonians is at 31% when asked about the federal government’s effectiveness in managing federally owned lands to prevent wildfires (Q2C).

“Timber companies do not want to log weak, sick, damaged trees in dense forest. Timber companies do not want to log trees killed by fire. They want access to log the large, old healthy trees that survived fire and density. There is no profit for them in small, destroyed trees. A trees ability to survive (or come back) from a fire is greatly underestimated in the logging debate.”

Man, age 65-74, Multnomah County, White and Other race or ethnicity

Wildfire Reduction Methods

When polled on different wildfire reduction methods, Oregonians generally support a range of different methods (Q5A-H).  

• Wildfire reduction methods that specifically address the danger wildfire poses to homes are the most popular among Oregonians, with 89% in support of clearing space around homes of flame-spread vegetation and 85% supporting hardening and preparing homes to be more fire resistant (Q5E,Q5A).
• A large majority of Oregonians (78%) think there should be periodic controlled burns of “ground fuels,” although it is worth noting 16% answered “don’t know,” indicating an opportunity for further study and clarification (Q5B).
• For the most part, less popular solutions still see strong support, with 71% of Oregonians in support of more public purchase of firefighting equipment, and 68% hoping Oregon will limit construction of new homes in fire-prone areas (Q5G,Q5F).
• The wildfire reduction strategy with the lowest level of support is more logging across the forested landscape (36% support) (Q5D).
  • It is worth noting that when asked about removing smaller, weaker, and poorer quality of trees in crowded forests, support increases to 76% (Q5C).

Evacuations due to Wildfire

One in five Oregonians say they have had to evacuate their area of Oregon due to a wildfire (Q6). Of those who have had to evacuate, 60% say they felt like they had the support they needed to evacuate (Q6A). Of those who haven’t yet had to evacuate their area because of a wildfire, 62% say they feel they currently have the support and resources they need in order to do so (Q6B).

Women are more likely than men to be concerned about wildfires, and less likely than men to feel that they have the resources or support to evacuate their area should they need to. When asked about the next ten years, women were more likely than men to predict an increase in wildfires (91% vs. 83%) (Q3A). Of those polled, 58% of women see wildfire as a direct threat to themselves and their families compared to 46% of men (Q1A).

Among those who have not had to evacuate because of wildfires, 53% of women say they feel they have the support and resources they need to suddenly evacuate their homes vs. 70% of men who say the same thing (Q6B). 

Although not statistically significant, among Oregonians who have had to evacuate because of wildfires, once again, women were less likely than men to say they got the support they needed (57% compared to 66%) (Q6A).

Demographic Trends

Identifying what unites us, understanding what divides us.

Reported below are statistically significant subgroup differences between BIPOC and white Oregonians, urban and rural Oregonians, and age groups. Many of these differences are not major and are presented to inform public education and communications initiatives.  

While there appears to be a consensus amongst Oregonians that wildfires are a serious issue, those in rural areas are more likely to see wildfires as a direct threat to themselves and their families (Q1A).

67% of Oregonians in rural counties are concerned about the threat of wildfires to themselves and their families compared to 45% of those in urban areas (Q1A).

Part of this may be due to more personal experiences with wildfires, with 27% of Oregonians in rural communities saying they have already had to evacuate their homes due to a wildfire compared to 16% of those living in urban areas (Q6).

“Living in rural Oregon near forests, there is now constant fear of another wildfire. There is also the seemingly constant amount of smoke in the air now, all the time; it is ridiculous.” 

Woman, age 45-54, Marion County, White

While BIPOC and white Oregonians have similar feelings about wildfire, it is worth noting that among those who have not had to evacuate, 56% of BIPOC respondents say they feel they have the support and resources they need to evacuate their homes, compared to 64% of white respondents (Q6B). 

Older Oregonians are generally less concerned than younger Oregonians about wildfires in their area of Oregon.

Just 32% of those 75 or older feel that wildfires are a risk to themselves and their family, compared to 49-58% of the other age groups (Q1A). 

When asked about the risk of wildfires to folks living in their community, once again, older Oregonians reported concern at a lower rate (42% compared to 56-66% of other age groups) (Q1B). 

Of those 18-29, nearly seven in ten believe wildfire is a serious threat to people living in their community (66%), the highest level of concern among all age groups. 

When it comes to concerns around wildfire to Oregon in general, there is much more alignment among Oregonians of all ages that it is a serious threat (88-96%) (Q1C). 

There is agreement among all age groups that Oregon will likely experience an increase in the number of wildfires over the next ten years (83-92%) (Q3A). 

Methodology: The online survey consisted of 1,446 Oregon residents ages 18+ and took approximately 15 minutes to complete. Respondents were contacted by using professionally maintained online panels. In gathering responses, a variety of quality control measures were employed, including questionnaire pre-testing, validation, and real-time monitoring of responses. To ensure a representative sample, demographic quotas were set, and data weighted by area of the state, gender, age, and education.

Statement of Limitations: Based on a 95% confidence interval, this survey’s margin of error for the full sample ±2.5%. Due to rounding or multiple answer questions, response percentages may not add up to 100%.

This survey uses aggregated data to analyze the opinions of BIPOC residents in comparison to the opinions of residents who identify as white and not another race. BIPOC residents are not a monolith; the grouping represents a wide diversity of races and ethnicities. The findings included in this memo should not be construed such that all people of color are believed to share the same opinions. Disaggregated race data will be provided when sample sizes permit reliability.

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 29, 2022

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER HOSTED ITS 20th ANNUAL  GOLF TOURNAMENT ON JUNE 23 PRESENTED BY COLUMBIA BANK  

Celebrating two decades of success this year, the Chamber's golf tournament, with a sold out field, provided an opportunity for 260 business professionals to spend the day out on the course making meaningful connections. 

Vancouver, WA- The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) returned to Camas Meadows Golf Course to celebrate its annual Open Golf Tournament for men and women, on Thursday, June 23, presented by Columbia Bank. The sold-out tournament attracted 184 golfers and over 40 corporate sponsors.

This 18-hole, Scramble tournament for seasoned golfers and novice players alike began at 8:00 AM with tee times for each foursome. During the tournament, golfers from businesses of all sizes had the opportunity to meet & greet with tee sponsors on each hole, share specialties, and create meaningful connections in an interactive environment.   

After spending a fun day out on the course and finishing the games with the top scores, the teams from the companies The Heathman Lodge Vancouver (Men), JPMorgan Chase (Women), and Davidson Benefits Planning (Mixed) won the first-place awards. These companies were followed by Team Bank of the Pacific (Men), Team Capacity Commercial Group (Women), and Team Columbia Bank (Mixed) who took second place.  

“Fantastic day, what a great event! Already looking forward to the next one. Thank you, Greater Vancouver Chamber, and sponsors. Had a great time meeting some fun people!”, expressed Brenda Bassett, Senior Vice President at Davidson Benefits Planning, an Alera Group Agency, LLC.  

For Donald Russo, retired attorney/shareholder at Schwabe Williamson & Wyatt, the weather could not have been better for a good day at the course. “Always a fun time. This year makes 20 years of playing the Chamber’s tournament,” said Russo.  

In addition to the tournament awards, the event offered the golfers mini-games, photo booth by the Humane Society for Southwest Washington, and incentives throughout the course. Tracey Pisauro, from Team Oregonian Media Group, and Rajeev Gupta, from Team Banner Bank, were the winners of the KP contests. Also, Kari Jonassen, from Team Capacity Commercial Group, and Neil Daly, from Team SERVPRO of Vancouver, won the long drive competitions. Northwest Personal Training, which conducted the putting contest, calculated the results and announced James Boatman, Jason Misnar, and Robert Baker as winners.  

“Best tournament I have ever played! Thank you again for the invite!” mentioned avid golfer Eric Morillo, Executive Vice President/ General Manager at Standard Steel.  

The golfers also enjoyed breakfast, complimentary access to gourmet hand crafted coffee, snack box, and gourmet lunch box at the course and more.  

“The Greater Vancouver Chamber is proud to offer this extremely popular golf tournament to our local business professionals for two decades. Hearing at the end of the day from our Chamber members about the new opportunities and business connections they built is what makes this event a success. Congratulations to our tournament winners! Now on to planning next year's event,” commented GVC President/CEO John McDonagh. 

The GVC’s 2022 Open Golf Tournament was presented by Columbia Bank, and supported by additional sponsors, Securus Systems, ilani, Davidson Benefits Planning, CalPortland, McCord’s Vancouver Toyota, Humane Society for Southwest Washington, Columbia Credit Union, Opti Staffing, Northwest Personal Training, Chick-fil-A, Opsahl Dawson, Allen Gabriel MD, HAPO Community Credit Union, Pacific Office Automation, Lifetime Exteriors, Corwin Beverage Company, A-1 Automotive, Bagcraft, Stretch Zone Fisher’s Landing, BBSI, Columbia Machine, NW Furniture Bank, Alaska USA Federal Credit Union, Paul Davis Restoration, Port of Vancouver USA, 1-800-GOT-JUNK, NW Accounting Professionals LLC, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Capacity Commercial Group, Hampton Inn & Suites Vancouver, iQ Credit Union, Partners In Careers, Vice Beer, Vancouver Volcanoes, Biggs Insurance Services, and Waste Connections.     

Although the Chamber’s 2022 “Sip, Shop, Swing” Women’s Golf Tournament in August 11 is a sold-out tournament for golfers, a few sponsorships remain available. Learn more about available opportunities at https://business.vancouverusa.com/events/details/2022-sip-shop-swing-women-s-golf-tournament-22557  

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for over 130 years through business advocacy, community building, education, and creating visibility for our members. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals, and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The GVC is the heart of Clark County’s business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate and prosperity for all. For more information, please visit VancouverUSA.com.

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Media Assets:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set?vanity=greatervancouverchamber&set=a.10160316754317456 

Video Event Link:
GVC’s 2022 Open Golf Tournament

On 06/27/2022 Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue received a mutual aid request for Fire Boat 24 from Columbia River Fire and Rescue at 10:20 PM.  Engine 23, Battalion Chief 21, and Fire Boat 24 were dispatched to River Mile 87 on the Columbia River, to assist with a "Marine event with a person in the water".

Dispatch notes relayed two uninjured subjects, wearing life jackets, who had popped their inner tubes and were in the water. 

Engine 23 and Battalion Chief 21 convened at Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue’s Ridgefield Marina boathouse and three personnel (2 boat operators, and 1 rescue swimmer) departed toward the dispatched location in Fire Boat 24. 

Fire Boat 24 arrived at 10:41 PM to find two adults (one male, one female) in the water. Both adults were wearing life jackets, were uninjured, and were clinging to a wood piling in the middle of the river - just inside the Multnomah Channel.  Multiple land-based Columbia County response units had made visual contact with the individuals and were providing scene lighting for Fire Boat 24.

Fire Boat 24 accessed the subjects via the bow and assisted them aboard, without incident.  A second pass was made to recover several personal belongings and the popped inner tubes.  Once both subjects were secured onboard, Columbia County Command advised there was an awaiting paramedic response unit at the St. Helens marina.  Fire Boat 24 transported the individuals to the awaiting Columbia River Fire and Rescue unit, then returned in service at 11:22 PM.   

Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue would like to emphasize the fact that this incident, while emergent, could have had a dire outcome had both adults not elected to wear the proper personal floatation device / life jackets.  Please ensure you and anybody you are responsible for are wearing the proper personal flotation device(s) while enjoying water activities. 

## Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue (CCFR) serves 45,000 people over 125 square miles, including the cities of La Center, Ridgefield, Woodland, and the Cowlitz Indian Reservation. Our combination department includes full-time and volunteer firefighters responding to an average of 5000 fire and emergency medical calls a year. CCFR operates under a balanced budget and has a history of passing independent financial audits by the state. ##

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is accepting applications to fill four vacancies on the seven-member Parks Advisory Board. All four terms begin immediately. Three of the terms end Dec. 31, 2024, and one ends Dec. 31, 2025.

Board members serve three-year terms. Upon expiration of a term, a member can apply again. There is no limit on how many terms a member can serve. 

The Parks Advisory Board advises the Clark County Council and county staff on parks planning, acquisition, development and related issues. Applicants must be residents of Clark County. The county is looking for applicants from historically underserved or underrepresented populations including residents who can bring ethnic, cultural, and geographic diversity to the group. A board member located in north Clark County or in a rural area is preferred to assist with geographic diversity.

Clark County Washington is a growing and diverse community with many residents speaking languages other than English. The Parks Advisory Board values the community’s diversity and seeks ways to promote equity and inclusion within the organization and with the public. The board encourages applications from candidates with knowledge, ability and experience working with a broad range of individuals and communities with diverse racial, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. Although not required, candidates who can fluently speak a language in addition to English are encouraged to include that information in their application. Residents with a passion for parks and the ability to commit to volunteer hours beyond monthly board meetings are encouraged to apply. 

The advisory board meets from 4 to 6 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month. The board typically meets at the Public Works Operations Center, 4700 NE 78th St., Bldg. B-1, which is served by C-TRAN’s Route 78. The board is currently holding meetings in a hybrid format using Microsoft Teams in conjunction with the in-person gatherings.

Interested applicants should submit a brief letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager’s Office, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or by email at michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, July 29, 2022.

More information about the parks board is available on the county’s website, www.clark.wa.gov/public-works/parks-advisory-board.

Practical tips empower consumers to make the most of the travel season without breaking the bank.

PORTLAND, Ore., June 29, 2022 —Many Americans are ready to vacation after two years of the pandemic, yet they are now coping with rapidly rising prices for travel. Travel costs have risen nearly 19% compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019 (according to the Travel Price Index from the U.S. Travel Association), forcing nearly seven out of 10 Americans to say they are changing their summer travel plans by taking fewer trips or staying closer to home. To help individuals and families make the most of summer travel opportunities, OnPoint Community Credit Union released today a list of Smart Money Tips for Summer Travel that can help people maximize their budgets while minimizing surprise expenses.

“Members of our community are eager to return to travel, but soaring prices are creating a new set of obstacles,” said Rob Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “We can’t control gas or grocery prices, but we can empower people with tools that give them more control over their budget so they can make the most of their travel plans this summer, and beyond.”

Smart Money Tips for Summer Travel:

• Fine-tune your budget: Scrub your recurring expenses by analyzing your bank statements and credit cards to see where you can cut back. New entertainment and convenience subscriptions that made sense during the pandemic may not be as critical now. Consider canceling a streaming app or food delivery service and divert that money into an expanded travel budget. Saving $15/month for three months could be enough to cover the increase in gas costs for a road trip.
• Save for travel with a system: You can build up your travel funds by implementing a systematic approach like a 52-week savings challenge. It works by saving the dollar amount that corresponds with the week of the year. For the first week of January, you’ll save $1. By the last week of December, you’re putting away $52. Keep that up all year long, and you will have saved about $1,400 without making a huge change in your spending habits. We recommend creating a separate savings account without debit or ATM card access for this fund, so you are not tempted to make withdrawals.
• Track flights and be flexible: If you booked a flight during the first two years of the pandemic, you may have enjoyed unusually low fares. Those days are over. According to Hopper, airfare has skyrocketed 40% since the start of the year and is 7% higher than pre-pandemic levels because of record jet fuel prices. If you can be flexible on your travel dates and destination of choice and do your research, you can still find decent prices. Ensure you are getting a good deal by tracking the price of preferred flights. Google offers a 60-day history of flights, which can show you if you are getting a good deal or not.
• Make a food plan: The cost of meals and snacks can strain a travel budget, especially in these days of rising food prices. Allow time to stop at the store for snacks before you travel to avoid paying for premium-priced meals at the airport or on the airplane. Search for grocery stores near your rental home or hotel and stock up on easy ingredients and snacks. Try to prepare as many meals as possible from your home base.
• Know before you go: As you rent your car and make sight-seeing reservations, research how your financial institution manages international travel. Does your bank charge a foreign transaction fee on credit and debit cards? Check the current foreign exchange rates so you know how much that keychain will cost you in U.S. dollars. Find out what tools your bank or credit union offers for travelers. OnPoint offers online tools that allow members to add their own travel notices, put a freeze on their credit card and find the closest ATM.
• Take care of the basics: In the days before your departure, notify your financial institution that you will be leaving town, so your card is not blocked due to unusual activity. Check with hotels, airlines or destinations to see if you will have internet access for online banking and withdraw some cash in the currency of the country you are visiting. By ensuring your financial resources are ready for travel, you avoid unexpected, costly hassles.

If you need additional support creating a dedicated budget for travel, managing through this era of inflation or have any other financial questions, you can seek out guidance at one of OnPoint’s 55 branches.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 483,000 members and with assets of $9.3 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union's membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler, and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

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Correction

The truck and trailer were taken from the 91000blk of N. Coburg Rd.

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The Lane County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in identifying leads related to the theft of a full-sized truck and trailer. 

Sometime over the night of 06/27/22 into the morning of 06/28/22, a gray Ford F-350 dually pickup and attached white 20ft. Pace America enclosed cargo trailer was stolen from a location in the 91000blk of Old Coburg Rd. The trailer contained a large volume of various animal health products when it was taken.  The involved truck is possibly displaying OR Plate #F171407 or OR Plate #637KXH.  The trailer may be displaying OR Plate #HV46632.

Anyone with information about this case or the whereabouts of the truck and trailer are asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4150 opt. 1.  Reference LCSO Case #22-3480 when calling.

Salem, OR--The Local Government Grant Program (LGGP) Advisory Committee will hold public meetings to review grant applications July 11-14 via Zoom, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Applicants will present their proposed projects for acquiring, planning, developing and rehabilitating outdoor recreation facilities. The committee will evaluate and score all applications and create a priority ranking list of projects to be funded. The list will be forwarded to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for final review and approval.

A schedule listing applicants and their specific presentation times is posted on the Local Government Grant Program web page at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/GRA/pages/GRA-lggp.aspx#2 . A link to view the Zoom meeting is also posted at the site.

The LGGP Advisory Committee consists of eleven members who represent cities, counties, park and recreation districts, port districts, people with disabilities and the general public. They also represent various geographic areas of the state. 

The LGGP was established in 1999 to direct a portion of state lottery revenue to award grants to eligible applicants for outdoor park and recreation projects. The program is administered by Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). 

For more information about the LGGP, visit oprdgrants.org. 

On Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at approximately 9:39 PM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 99E near milepost 33, near Woodburn. 

Preliminary investigation revealed a southbound gold Chevrolet Classic, operated by a 17-year-old male of Woodburn, passed another vehicle, lost control and collided with a northbound Indian motorcycle, operated by Jamil Nester (52) of Woodburn. The Chevrolet rolled multiple times and came to rest in the southbound ditch. 

A 13-year-old male was ejected during the collision. He sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. He was not wearing a seatbelt. The 17-year-old and Nester were transported to an area hospital with injuries. 

Hwy 99E was closed for approximately 7 hours while the scene was investigated. 

OSP was assisted by Hubbard Fire Department, Woodburn Police Department, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Hubbard Police Department and ODOT.

The investigation into this crash in on-going. 

On Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at approximately 2:23 PM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Hwy 361 and Hwy 97. The area of the crash was approximately 1 mile south of Culver. 

Preliminary investigation revealed a westbound blue Ford Thunderbird on Hwy 361, operated by Mario Villagomez (31) of Prineville, failed stop entering Hwy 97 and collided with a red Honda Gold Wing motorcycle, operated by Martin Fox (65) of Manson, WA, that was northbound.

Martin Fox sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. A passenger, Susan Fox (62) of Manson, WA, was critically injured and transported via air ambulance to St. Charles in Bend. Villagomez was transported with injuries to a local hospital. 

Hwy 97 and Hwy 361 were affected for approximately 3 hours. 

OSP was assisted by Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Fire & EMS, and ODOT. 

Oaks Park is excited to offer our annual Fireworks Spectacular once again this 4th of July.  For the first time since 2019 the popular, long-standing Portland tradition is back! Tickets are only available online in advance at oakspark.com.

• Monday, July 4
• Gates Open: 11 AM
• Rides: Noon-Midnight
• Fireworks: 10 PM
• All picnic areas are first-come, first-served
• Admission: $36 per person 3 and older, under 2 years old free

Admission includes unlimited rides. Everyone entering the park ages 3 and older must have an admission ticket.

Visit oakspark.com/july4 for tickets and full info.

Salem, Ore. – A $300 million Community Improvement Bond is headed to Salem voters on the November 8, 2022, general election ballot. Salem City Council approved the package of improvements at their June 27 meeting.

"We've heard from a lot of people in our community about where improvements are needed and it really shows in this plan," said Mayor Chuck Bennett. "A great deal of thought and deliberation has gone into tailoring the bond proposal to be cost-effective while yielding the most community benefit possible -- all without raising the City tax rate."

If approved by voters, the bond will provide for investment in streets, sidewalks, parks and public safety without increasing the City’s property tax rate. Several previous bond measures will be paid off over the next decade, which will allow the tax rate to remain steady. 

City Councilors Vanessa Nordyke and Virginia Stapleton proposed changes to the recommendation made by the Council’s bond subcommittee, which were approved by the full City Council before the bond plan was passed. These changes added a $7.6 million urban upgrade for Davis Road South, from Skyline Road to Liberty Street, and restored $700,000 to fully fund Peace Plaza improvements, which the bond subcommittee recommendation had allocated to the Union Street family-friendly bikeway project. The Union Street project will remain funded through cost reductions to other projects. 

Funding for these projects was pulled together through careful trimming from other projects, including:

• $1.1 million by eliminating right turn lanes from the State Street Project
• $450,000 by eliminating railing replacement from the 15^th Street Bridge improvement (structural improvements will continue at $460,000)
• $1.5 million from sidewalk infill
• $1.29 million from sidewalk replacement
• $3.96 million from Safe Pedestrian Crossings

Seven of the crossings originally planned for funding through the Safe Pedestrian Crossings project are included in cost estimates for planned street upgrade projects and will be completed using other funds. In addition, new grant programs for pedestrian crossings have become available since this project was first proposed. The City will pursue these resources.

Read detailed information about the Salem Community Improvement Bond.

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MEDIA: The previous version of this press release had a misspelled name.

Salem, Ore. – Salem planners were honored Monday night for the almost four years of community engagement work involved in the Our Salem Comprehensive Plan update project. The Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development recognized Our Salem with a 2022 Achievement in Community Engagement (ACE) Award during the June 27 Salem City Council meeting.

“What impressed our committee members most about the Our Salem community engagement project was really the staff’s willingness to pivot,” said Leah Rausch, Chair of the Oregon Community Involvement Advisory Committee, which judges and presents the annual awards. “Early in the process, they saw some deficiencies in their outreach design and took action to address them.”

Our Salem coordinators pursued more inclusive engagement, reaching beyond typical land use advocacy groups to share the project with:

• people of color,
• youth,
• seniors,
• people with disabilities,
• cultural groups,
• low-income residents, and
• others.

The ACE Award recognizes organizations and individuals who have actively promoted and implemented the values of Oregon’s Statewide Planning Goal 1 through an outstanding community engagement strategy. 

All projects recognized with an ACE Award have successful elements in common. Each project:

• Demonstrates a well-thought-out approach,
• Makes innovative use of resources,
• Builds partnerships across and throughout the community,
• Intentionally engages historically marginalized and underserved communities.

Community Development Director Norman Wright recognized three individuals who were pivotal to the project, Lisa Anderson-Ogilvie, Assistant Director of Community Development; Eunice Kim, Our Salem Project Manager; and Austin Ross, planner. 

“This is a testament to their tireless effort to make sure that they reach every person they can in the City of Salem and the best possible symbol and representation of a vision that they created together with the entire community,” Wright said.

Innovation was even more crucial to the process when the COVID-19 pandemic emerged early in the process.

This isn’t the first time the City of Salem has received the ACE award. They were honored in 2018 for the NESCA and Lansing neighborhood plans.

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June 28, 2022

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, Jonathan.N.Modie@dhsoha.state.or.us

OHA supporting Gilliam County as it takes over public health services July 1

Transition follows county’s withdrawal from North Central Public Health District

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is supporting Gilliam County as it begins providing public health services as the local public health authority July 1, following the county’s withdrawal from North Central Public Health District.

North Central Public Health District will continue to be the local public health authority for Wasco and Sherman counties.

Over the past six months, OHA convened a workgroup of Public Health Division staff from across the division to support the new Gilliam County public health team with its preparation for the transition. Public Health Division staff have met regularly to plan for and communicate about the change, including sharing information with local partners, clients and the general public.

Gilliam County Public Health will be responsible for the following LPHA programs and services:

• Communicable disease prevention and control
• Sexually transmitted diseases client services
• Public health emergency preparedness and response
• Tobacco prevention and education
• Alcohol and drug prevention and education
• Immunization services
• Reproductive health services
• Nutrition program for women, infants and children (WIC)
• Maternal, child and adolescent services
• Licensing and inspection of food, pool and lodging facilities

OHA will be responsible for safe drinking water services in Gilliam County.

WIC participants will continue to be served by their current agency through September. Once the transfer of WIC services to Gilliam County is completed – which could happen prior to September – OHA will announce it to the public and let county residents know how to connect with the WIC Program in Gilliam. Until then, those with questions about WIC services can contact their current WIC agency or the state WIC Program at 971-673-0040 or https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HealthyPeopleFamilies/wic/Pages/index.aspx.

Last December, Gilliam County announced it had passed a resolution requesting its withdrawal from an intergovernmental agreement with Wasco and Sherman counties that created the North Central Public Health District in October 2009. Gilliam County also passed an ordinance requesting to enter into a new intergovernmental agreement with OHA for the financing of public health services to be delivered by the county as the local public health authority.

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On June 30 at 2 p.m., Portland City Council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance to re-adopt the remanded ordinance that restricts the uses of bulk fossil fuel terminals. These amendments will limit the size of new fossil fuel terminals and prohibit the expansion of fossil fuel storage tank capacity at existing fossil fuel terminals, with limited exceptions.

Read the documents

Fossil fuel terminals present public safety risks in cities and communities as well as environmental risks along rivers. These zoning code changes will limit future risk in the event of a catastrophe, such as an earthquake. While the code changes restrict the expansion of existing facilities along the Willamette River in North Portland, they allow these terminals to continue operating and companies to reinvest in safer facilities as Oregon transitions away from fossil fuels to more renewable energy sources. 

Background

This is not the first time City Council has considered and voted on these code amendments. In 2019, Council voted to adopt the ordinance, but it was appealed to the Land Use Board of Appeal (LUBA) by the Western States Petroleum Association, Portland Business Alliance, Oregon Business and Industry, and Columbia Pacific Building Trades Council. LUBA subsequently “remanded” (returned to custody) the case back to City Council for additional findings and policy interpretations.

Staff have completed their findings to address:

• Future demand for petroleum and natural gas.
• The city’s comparative economic advantages.
• Potential impacts to the city’s multi-modal transportation system.
• The role fossil fuel terminals play in serving other businesses in the area.

Now City Council will hear public testimony on an ordinance to re-adopt the remanded ordinance. Portlanders can testify to City Council in writing or in person.

Testify in writing

Written testimony must be received by the time of the hearing (but ideally the day before) and must include name and address.

Through the Map App

Testifying in the Map App is as easy as sending an email and easier than U.S. Mail.

Visit the Map App

Via U.S. Mail

Send mail to:
Council Clerk
Fossil Fuel Zoning Testimony
1221 SW 4th Ave, Room 130
Portland, OR 97204

Testify at City Council

The June 30 hearing will be a hybrid meeting, and community members may testify in person, by phone or video conference. Visit the Council event page to learn more about how to sign up to testify.

Vancouver, Wash. — Court Administrator Cheryl A. Stone of the Clark County Superior Court, is alerting Clark County residents that there is currently another scam being perpetrated regarding jury service. Scammers are calling citizens and telling them that they have missed jury service and must either meet with someone or provide banking, credit card, or other information to avoid being jailed.

Most scams involve a resident receiving a call advising they missed jury service and there is a citation for a bench warrant.  Below are some examples of the interactions Clark County citizens have had with jury scammers:

• The caller states that a citation must be paid immediately, or the juror will be subject to arrest, or an arrest warrant will be issued.  
• The caller states that District Court Judge James B. Smith has issued the juror a warrant for a failure to appear for jury service. 
• The caller may identify themselves as a law enforcement or court deputy and provide a badge number and phone number.  
• The caller may ask for the person’s name, address or social security number. 
• The caller may tell the person to stay on the phone and not attempt to disconnect.  
• The caller may direct the person to meet them with cash or pay for the citation over the phone.

All of these statements are fraudulent.

Clark County Superior Court and Clark County District Court do not initiate calls about warrants, fines, fees, or other forms of payments for jury service. 

“If you receive a call from individuals using any of the above tactics, do not give any personal information or pay any sum of money,” said Court Administrator Cheryl A. Stone of Superior Court. “Obtain as much information as you can about the caller and report it to your local police department.”

Anyone who missed jury service in Clark County would not receive a phone call requesting money and threatening arrest.  Jurors who failed to appear for jury service are urged to call the Clark County Courthouse at 564-397-2049. If a juror does not call, they may be subject to a misdemeanor (RCW 2.36.170: Failure to appear – penalty). 

Vancouver, Wash. – Friday Night Flicks is back, and it starts next week with the Police Activities League of SW WA (PAL) showing Soul on July 8, 2022, at the Ridgefield Waterfront (aka the Port of Ridgefield). PAL’s night is presented thanks to support from our friends at Waste Connections. Get your tickets for PAL's night by visiting: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/friday-night-flicks-with-pal-tickets-168282123361.

Like last year this is a collaborative event, and four other nonprofits are hosting Friday Night Flicks. Below is the calendar series for summer 2022: 

•           July 8th with PAL: Soul

•           July 15th with Hough Foundation: Mr. Holland’s Opus

•           July 22nd with Ridgefield Main Street: A League of their Own

•           July 29th with Rocksolid Community Teen Center: Rock Dog

•           August 5th with Clark County Historical Museum: Night at the Museum

Learn more about the event by visiting, https://cchmuseum.org/programs-events/friday-night-flicks/, where you can learn about each movie/nonprofit and follow links to buy tickets!

We look forward to seeing you at Friday Night Flicks 2022 and a huge thanks to the Port of Ridgefield, Realvest, Why Racing Events, & Versa Events who have made this community event possible.

For more information email PAL of SW Washington at info@palofswwa.org to learn more about Friday Night Flicks or visit the website for the event at https://cchmuseum.org/programs-events/friday-night-flicks/. 

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

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As we prepare to commemorate our country’s independence on July 4, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue urges residents to have a heightened awareness of how fireworks impact veterans and pets and the increased risk in fires they can cause.

Fireworks produce sounds similar to gunshots, which can cause physical and mental distress to those who have experienced combat. Response to traumatic events vary from person to person, but everyone should be mindful and respectful of those who may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Keep in mind that loud fireworks affect the brave members of our military who fought and continue to fight for our freedoms. 

Fireworks also tend to frighten beloved pets, including farm animals. The loud noises can cause them great anxiety and stress, since they are unable to comprehend what is going on. If you insist on setting off fireworks, be aware of your own pet(s) and your neighbors’ and try to limit the quantity and length of time fireworks will be set off. 

Instead of lighting your own fireworks, attend a professional display. 

Shows in TVF&R’s service area:

     Cook Park, 17005 SW 92nd Ave., Tigard
     Oak Hills, Washington County
     Willamette Park, 1100 12th St., West Linn

Summer weather is also upon us, which means an increased risk in fires. TVF&R offers up the following fireworks safety tips to ensure you have a safe holiday. 

If you intend to use fireworks, keep them legal and safe.

Just because some fireworks are legal, doesn’t mean they’re 100 percent safe. This includes sparklers. They can reach temperatures of 1,200 degrees — wood burns at 575 degrees, while glass melts at 900 degrees (National Fire Protection Association).

• Only adults should light or handle fireworks. Supervise children at all times.
• Use fireworks outdoors on a paved surface, away from buildings, vehicles, and vegetation.
• Never pick up or try to re-light a “dud.”
• Never alter fireworks or make your own.
• Have a hose nearby in case of fire and place “spent” fireworks in a metal bucket with water.

Reporting firework incidents in TVF&R’s service area.

Individuals needing to report a fire or medical emergency should call 911; individuals wishing to report a nuisance or concern about illegal fireworks should do so via the non-emergency number, 503-629-0111. These situations will be logged, passed on to local law enforcement, and responded to as resources allow.

Penalties for misusing fireworks.

Law enforcement agencies enforce criminal laws related to the use of illegal fireworks in Oregon. Under Oregon law, officers can seize illegal fireworks and issue criminal citations, including reckless burning, criminal mischief, reckless endangerment, and more with fines up to $500 per violation. People can also be held civilly liable for damages resulting from improper use of any fireworks — legal or illegal.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County residents can help prevent fires, injuries and pollution by properly disposing of fireworks after their Fourth of July celebrations. 

Improper disposal of fireworks puts waste and recycling workers at increased risk of injury from fires in their trucks and at transfer stations. And fireworks debris, if not properly cleaned up, can be washed into storm drains that lead to streams, rivers and lakes. Fireworks contain heavy metals and other chemicals that can harm fish and wildlife. To prevent waterway contamination, residents should sweep up and dispose of fireworks debris as soon as possible and avoid using fireworks near waterways. 

Failing to clean up fireworks residue is littering, a violation of Washington law and Clark County ordinance. Clark County Public Works does not provide additional street sweeping after the Fourth of July.

Tips for proper disposal of used fireworks:

• Do not place any fireworks or any part of fireworks in your recycling cart. 
• All used fireworks should be treated as garbage and disposed of as follows:
  • Put used fireworks in a bucket of water overnight. Remove them from the water and put them in a garbage bag and into your garbage can. 
  • Dump the water onto grass, dirt or other landscape where it won’t flow into a storm drain or waterway. Do not pour onto pavement or into the street.

Tips for proper disposal of unused fireworks:

• Do not put unused fireworks in your garbage or recycling carts; they are explosives and can cause serious harm to workers and the environment.
• Do not take them to the transfer stations; workers cannot accept explosives.
• Do take unused legal fireworks to one of these designated drop-off sites between 8 am and 5 pm Monday-Friday, except holidays. Appointments may be required. Fireworks must be given directly to personnel, not left in a lobby or outside unattended. Check in with office staff prior to bringing fireworks into the building.
  • Clark County Public Safety Complex, 505 NW 179th St., Ridgefield. 564.397.2186. By appointment only.
  • Camas-Washougal Fire Marshal’s Office, 605 NE Third Ave., Camas. 360.834.6191. By appointment only.
  • Vancouver Police Department, 360.487.7500.
    • East Precinct – 520 SE 155th Ave.
    • West Precinct – 2800 NE Stapleton Road

Do not attempt to move or transport homemade explosive devices or altered fireworks for disposal. They will not be accepted at the above locations. Call 911 and report them for removal.

If a firework fails to ignite, an adult should approach it carefully after at least 15 minutes and place it in a bucket of water. After soaking overnight, remove it from the water and treat it as an unused firework.

Residents should use fireworks only during legal discharge times, which vary across the county. It is illegal to discharge any fireworks in the city of Vancouver. For more information about fireworks regulations and tips for celebrating safely, visit the Clark County fireworks webpage. 

To file a fireworks nuisance complaint, call 360.597.7888. The call center, which is operated by Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency, will be available 8 pm to 1 am July 2-4. Please do not call 911 or 311 to report fireworks violations.

Vancouver, WA – Clark County Historical Museum’s 2022 Speaker Series continues on Thursday, July 7, with “Growing Up in Vancouver (WA): A Community Archive” presented by CCHM executive director, Brad Richardson. The event will occur in-person at the Clark County Historical Museum. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the event begins at 7 p.m.

The ubiquitousness of social media has provided many opportunities for people to interact with others around the world. Beyond simply a means to stay in touch with family and friends, social media has encouraged the growth of a range of special interest groups and pages. In this month’s presentation CCHM explores one such page, Growing Up in Vancouver Washington, and how one man’s vision to connect with others who grew up in the area has become a community trove of memories, images, and stories that enrich the narrative of our past.

“Pat Klinger, through the development of the Growing Up in Vancouver page, created an information archive that contains a wealth of knowledge about Vancouver’s history,” said CCHM executive director, Brad Richardson, “His love for Vancouver and its history is reflected in his dedication to building this community archive. We are honored to be able to be a part of his legacy and give back by sharing it to the broader community.”

The CCHM Speaker Series is sponsored by the Clark County Historic Preservation Commission and Versa Events (formerly Wager Audio). General admission is $5; seniors and students are $4; children under 18 are $3; and the evening is free for CCHM members, veterans, and active-duty military personnel.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as seating is limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis.

For more information, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.

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SALEM, Ore.—The wildland-urban interface (WUI) and statewide wildfire risk map will be available through the Oregon Explorer online tool June 30, as required by Senate Bill 762 (2021). The map is a tool to help inform decision making and planning related to mitigating wildfire risk for communities throughout Oregon.

Oregon State University is producing the map based on administrative rules adopted by the Board of Forestry at their June 8 meeting. The rules—developed in consultation with a rulemaking advisory committee comprised of 26 members representing a wide variety of stakeholder interests—outline:

• boundary criteria for the WUI, 
• how each of five wildfire risk classes are assigned to individual properties, 
• how property owners in the extreme and high risk classes are to be notified, and
• how property owners may appeal their assigned risk class.

With the rules in place, OSU has been working diligently to create the map and have it available June 30. Out of a total number of 1.8 million tax lots in Oregon, ODF and OSU currently estimate the map will identify:

• 4.4% of Oregon’s land area is in the wildland-urban interface, which includes 956,496 tax lots. 
• 8% of total tax lots in Oregon are in the wildland-urban interface and in high or extreme risk classifications, which is 120,276 tax lots.
• Approximately 80,000 of the 120,276 tax lots in the WUI and high or extreme risk classifications currently have a structure that may be subject to new codes or standards, which is about 5% of tax lots. 

Property owners in the high and extreme risk classes will receive written notice from ODF indicating the property’s risk class and whether it’s in the wildland urban interface. The notice will inform them if they may be subject to future defensible space or building code requirements and how to find information on those requirements. It will also provide information on the process to appeal a property’s risk classification.

While property owners in the high and extreme risk classes will receive letters about their property, anyone can use the online risk map to get information on where they live. 

ODF will soon announce information sessions to address questions about the map’s function and purpose and help Oregonians understand the process to appeal their risk class.  

For properties in the WUI and a risk classification of high or extreme, Senate Bill 762 requires actions to help mitigate the risk of wildfire through adoption of defensible space and home hardening building codes. Oregon State Fire Marshal is passing defensible space code requirements through a public process. Code adoption of defensible space requirements will occur December 2022, after the map validation and appeals period is closed. Those requirements won’t apply until later. Visit OSFM’s website for more information. Building Codes Division (BCD) will adopt home hardening building codes through a public process. Building codes will be adopted October 1, 2022 and will be effective April 1, 2023. Visit BCD’s website for more information.

Clackamas Town Center, Lloyd Center, Washington Square and Pioneer Place Compete to Save Lives

Portland, Ore (June 28, 2022) — Four Portland Metropolitan malls are gearing up for a little friendly competition during the American Red Cross Cascades City-Wide Mall Challenge blood drive, Thursday, June 30 and Friday, July 1 between 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the following locations:

• Clackamas Town Center
  (Community Room near “Buckle”)
  Sponsor Code: mallchallenge

• Lloyd Center
  (2nd Level Vacant Storefront Center of Mall near Torrid)
  Sponsor Code: LloydCenterMall

• Washington Square
  (Vacant Store near Ulta and Red Robin)
  Sponsor Code: WashingtonSquare

• Pioneer Place
  (Vacant Storefront Space 1053 Basement Level next to Food Court)
  Sponsor Code: PioneerPlacePDX

“Shoppers will have an opportunity for some big savings in the way of lives with their blood donation,” says Angel Montes, Regional Executive, American Red Cross. “A single donation can help save more than one life.”

Unfortunately, the American Red Cross often sees blood supplies dwindle during summer months as people head out of town. “When schools let out and families set off on vacation, we typically see a decline in donors, often leading to a seasonal blood shortage,” Montes says.

Visit RedCrossBlood.org then enter the sponsor code above for the mall of your choice and make your appointment today.

The mall to collect the most blood donations will receive a trophy and bragging rights. 

Blood drive safety 

The Red Cross follows a high standard of safety and infection control. The Red Cross will continue to socially distance wherever possible at blood drives, donation centers and facilities. While donors are no longer required to wear a face mask, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason. The Red Cross will also adhere to more stringent face mask requirements per state and/or local guidance, or at the request of blood drive sponsors. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at a drive.  

Oregon and Washington still require face masks be worn at all blood drives and donation sites.

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass^® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: June 28, 2022

Salem, Ore. — The Salem Police Department is now participating in the Oregon Car Care Program, a project that focuses on improving traffic safety by helping drivers correct minor equipment violations with a discount voucher.

Effective today, officers will issue vouchers for infractions related to equipment which by law is required to function properly on a vehicle, such as lighting, rearview mirrors, windshield wipers, and fenders or mudguards. The vouchers, redeemable at various stores in the area, provide a 20% discount to the vehicle owner, making it easier for them to get the necessary equipment to drive safely. 

“With the Car Care program, we have an opportunity to address equipment violations through education and cooperation, rather than a citation,” said Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack. 

Improved traffic safety is highlighted in the Salem Police Department’s three-year strategic plan which includes developing efforts to direct traffic enforcement toward serious moving violations that result in collisions and away from mere equipment violations.

The Car Care Program was developed by the Oregon State Police in 2016 with the focus of assisting drivers who defer automobile maintenance costs. In 2019, the program was centralized through the Oregon Association Chiefs of Police as a way to extend the benefits to agencies throughout the state.

“For us, the program also offers another critical component to our community’s safety and that’s relationship-building and trust,” explained the police chief. “By expanding the approach to interactions with the public, officers also have a chance to offer some understanding to drivers who find themselves having to put off car upkeep, while also reminding drivers about the importance of traffic safety.”

Womack noted, “Having a conversation without a citation can go a long way to increased understanding, as well as building trust with the community.”

# # #

Oregon Community Foundation Taps Nationally Recognized Community Development Finance Leader as Next CEO

Lisa Mensah returns home and brings a background in rural development and economic justice to OCF as she steps into chief executive role

PORTLAND, Ore. – June 28, 2022, Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) Board of Directors announced today that they have named a national expert in economic opportunity and security, Lisa Mensah, to be the Foundation’s next Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Mensah will be OCF’s fourth CEO in its nearly 50-year history, succeeding Max Williams, who is transitioning out of his role after a decade of leadership. 

Lisa Mensah is widely considered an expert on access to capital in distressed and low-wealth communities and on the role of finance in social, economic, and racial justice. As president and CEO of Opportunity Finance Network (OFN), Ms. Mensah currently heads one of the nation’s leading networks of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). Since joining OFN in 2017, Lisa Mensah has brought new visibility and investment to the CDFI field. Most recently during the COVID-19 pandemic, she was a forceful advocate for America’s most vulnerable small businesses and microbusinesses, helping safeguard them by bringing new capital and partners to the CDFI industry. In 2020, Google partnered with OFN to invest $180 million in corporate and philanthropic capital into CDFIs through OFN as the lending intermediary. The same year, OFN launched the Finance Justice Fund, which strives to raise a fresh $1 billion of socially responsible capital, with Twitter as the Fund’s first investor.

Born and raised in Oregon, Ms. Mensah is returning to her home state following an illustrious career that has taken her from working on rural poverty with the Ford Foundation to serving as Undersecretary for Rural Development at the USDA in the Obama Administration, managing a $215 billion loan portfolio, to currently leading Opportunity Finance Network.

“I am excited to return to my roots here in Oregon; to leverage my expertise and the sum of my experiences,” said Lisa Mensah, OCF’s incoming president and CEO.  “In this moment, I feel very fortunate to join hands with a 50-year tradition at Oregon Community Foundation, working to help this state and its people flourish.”

“Oregon Community Foundation catalyzes community-led solutions in support of a healthy, thriving Oregon. We look forward to welcoming Lisa Mensah back home in this new leadership role to help advance this great work, and all that will be accomplished together in the years ahead.” said Kimberly Cooper, Board Chair, Oregon Community Foundation.

Lisa Mensah begins her official role as president and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation in September 2022. She will oversee the development of the Foundation’s next strategic plan and OCF’s 50^th anniversary in 2023. Until her arrival, Max Williams continues in the top leadership role.

About Lisa Afua Serwah Mensah

Lisa Mensah holds an M.A. from Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and a B.A. from Harvard University and has led Opportunity Finance Network since March 2017, bringing expertise in both public and private sector financial tools to improve economic security. She serves on the Board of Ecotrust, as well as the FDIC Advisory Committee on Economic Inclusion, Bank of America National Community Advisory Committee; Morgan Stanley Community Development Advisory Committee; Capital One Community Advisory Council; and Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women Advisory Council. She also sits on the boards of Fidelity Bank of Ghana and Heritage and Cultural Society of Africa-USA and the Gaia Impact Fund Advisory Council.

Ms. Mensah has previously served as USDA Undersecretary for Rural Development during the Obama Administration; founded the Initiative on Financial Security at The Aspen Institute; and held leadership positions at the Ford Foundation. She began her career in commercial banking.

To learn more, please visit: https://oregoncf.org/mensah/

OCF Board Applauds Williams’ Decade of Service and Legacy of Impact

Oregon Community Foundation’s outgoing leader, Max Williams was at the helm of OCF for one of the most interesting periods of growth, complexity, and impact for the foundation. In response to cascading crises of the past two years Williams oversaw the deployment of resources at an unprecedented rate, granting $560 million to benefit every community in Oregon.

Williams leaves a legacy of impact that includes growing OCF’s endowment to $3.7 billion, creating a $30 million Oregon Impact Fund, and stewarding some of the largest charitable gifts in Oregon’s history.

“The mark of a good leader is to leave a place better than when you found it. The mark of a great leader is to ensure that the place continues its path to betterment even after you’re gone,” said OCF Board Chair Kimberly Cooper. “As his predecessor did for him, Max Williams is opening the door to a new voice and experienced leader who will amplify and accelerate a trajectory of impact for decades to come,” she added.

“OCF is an amazing network of generous donors, volunteers and community members working together to make Oregon a better place for everyone,” said Williams. “I am excited about Lisa’s experience, her background and her Oregon roots. I have confidence that Lisa will expand OCF’s impact as we enter the next 50 years of OCF’s service to community.”

About Oregon Community Foundation

Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) works with donors and volunteers to award grants and scholarships to every county in Oregon. From 2020 to 2021, OCF distributed more than $560 million, supporting more than 4,000 nonprofits and 6,000 students. With OCF, individuals, families, businesses, and organizations create charitable funds that meet the needs of diverse communities statewide. Since its founding in 1973, OCF has distributed more than $2 billion toward advancing its mission to improve lives for all Oregonians. For more information, please visit: oregoncf.org.

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Multnomah County sheriff’s deputies performed a traffic enforcement mission to reduce reckless and impaired driving, and locate and recover stolen vehicles in East Multnomah County. The Gresham Police Department also assisted.

During Sunday night’s mission, law enforcement officers made 57 traffic stops, recovered two stolen cars and arrested 12 people. Charges included reckless driving, attempted assault of a police officer, possession and distribution of a controlled substance (fentanyl), DUII, and various warrants.

In response to the county’s dramatic rise in violent crimes, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, along with our public safety partners, has implemented data-driven violence reductions strategies. One solution is performing patrol missions in hot-spot areas where traffic-related fatalities and gun violence intersect. These missions have mainly focused in areas east of 162nd Avenue.

Since these efforts began in mid-April, these missions have resulted in 173 traffic stops, 45 arrests, and 9 recovered stolen vehicles.

Both Multnomah County Sheriff Mike Reese and Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg participated in Sunday night’s mission.

WILSONVILLE, Ore. — Oregon Charter Academy (ORCA) will be the only school in Oregon to join hundreds of sites across the country to celebrate the release of the first science images from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope — the largest and most complex space science telescope ever built — on Tuesday, July 12, from 3 to 5 p.m. The public is invited to join this historic event for free at 30485 SW Boones Ferry Rd., #202, in Wilsonville (open to the first 100 registrants) or virtually (open to the first 1,000 registrants). Register here. 
 

In a continuation of ORCA’s ongoing efforts to provide its students with STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) enrichment, the University of Oregon’s physics department will make an appearance at the event, armed with special-lensed telescopes to assist attendees while they view the sun (weather permitting). 

“Igniting interest in STEM is imperative to ORCA,” said Dan Vasen, principal of ORCA STEM programs and champion of the school’s NASA club. “Providing special opportunities through events like these can stimulate the type of learning that creates passion, while at the same time helping students process classroom topics and their relevance to real world applications.” 

ORCA’s NASA club has been bringing monthly live streams from various NASA space centers to ORCA students for three years. The club also provides virtual reality apps, programs that connect with coding space rovers, and much more. In February, over 90 ORCA students and staff watched the James Webb Telescope reach its final destination, and now students and other science enthusiasts can celebrate the results. 
 

“The NASA club is just one of the many STEM programs at ORCA,” said Vasen. “In an effort to take remote learning to the next level, we’ll be partnering with more space centers next year to increase the number of virtual events and the scope of educational enrichment materials provided to ORCA students.”  

ORCA is one of only seven organizations throughout Oregon selected to participate in this historic viewing. Additional organizations include: Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), Evergreen Air and Science Museum, Airway Science for Kids and ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum. Each organization will host viewing events on varying days and times.
 

ABOUT THE JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE

The James Webb Space Telescope is the largest and most complex space science telescope ever built — the premier observatory of the next decade. This international mission, led by NASA in partnership with the European Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency, launched Dec. 25, 2021. After unfolding in space into its final form, Webb successfully arrived at its destination nearly 1 million miles from Earth and began preparing for science operations. The observatory, which is designed to see the universe in the infrared, will push the field of astronomy into a new era. Webb will be able to study light from distant parts of the universe for the very first time and give us insight into how our universe formed. 
 

It will also peer into dusty stellar nurseries to explore distant worlds orbiting other stars, as well as observe objects in our own solar system. Webb will extend the scientific discoveries of other NASA missions like the Hubble Space Telescope, Chandra X-ray Observatory, and Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite.
 

To learn more about the Webb telescope, visit webb.nasa.gov and webbtelescope.org or view the media kit. 
 

ABOUT OREGON CHARTER ACADEMY

The Oregon Charter Academy (ORCA), is a tuition-free online public charter school that has been serving K - 12 students successfully for 17 years. Combining twenty-first century learning with standards-based curriculum, ORCA is the only school in Ore., Wash., and Calif. to be recognized as a 2021 Cognia School of Distinction; and placed as Best Charter School and Best Overall Leadership within the Statesman Journal awards. ORCA provides students with approximately 40 student clubs, over 200 field trips each year, career and technical education programs, college credit options, teen parent programs, AVID implementation, and monthly learning sessions with NASA.
 

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You Buy One, We Plant One campaign donates $1 from every purchase to plant one tree

Once again, four leading Oregon craft beverage producers are teaming up with Oregon Parks Forever to raise funds to replant 25,000 trees in Oregon’s parks and forests.

Between record breaking fires caused by a freak windstorm to an extreme heat event that set the stage for another bad fire year, Oregon has seen unusually severe tree damage the past two years. 

As we embark on summer activities, fire officials are warning that we are heading for another challenging fire season this summer.

So, once again, sustainability-minded craft beverage producers Canned Oregon by Stoller Wine Group, Fort George Brewery, Portland Cider Company, and Sunriver Brewing are collaborating to help Oregon Parks Forever’s effort to replant one million trees so that Oregon’s forests will once again be green and lush for future generations. 

For all of July and August, at all Oregon retailers, $1 from select 6-pack of cans of Sunriver Brewing and Fort George beer, Portland Cider Company cider, and 375mL cans of Canned Oregon wine by Stoller Wine Group sold will be donated to Oregon Parks Forever as part of their tree replanting campaign. Each dollar collected will cover the cost of planting one tree. You buy one. We plant one.      

"We are thrilled to have the continuing support of these fine craft beverage producers toward this important project. With the help of these fine craft beverage makers, and many others, we were able to fund the planting of over a half a million trees last year. Trees provide the very necessities of life,” said Seth Miller, Oregon Parks Forever executive director. “They clear our air, protect our drinking water, create healthy communities and feed our souls.  Our forests provide critical wildlife habitat, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities.  They sequester carbon and help reduce soil erosion by stabilizing slopes and preventing landslides.” 

Oregon Parks Forever has set a goal of planting at least a million trees. So far, they have funded the replanting of more than half a million trees!  You can support their efforts by donating directly, or buying the participating products from these craft beverage producers at your local retailer this summer. 

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About Oregon Parks Forever

Since 1995, Oregon Parks Forever has been raising funds to help fund programs and projects that enhance the experience of using Oregon’s parks & forests. Emphasis is placed on projects that protect existing facilities and amenities, increase park accessibility, provide healthy activities and educate the future stewards of our public lands. Oregon Parks Forever is a statewide nonprofit organization whose mission includes working with federal, state, local and tribal public land managers to enhance and preserve special places and experiences in all Oregon parks.

For more information, visit orparksforever.org/

Contact: Seth Miller, Executive Director, 503- 913-8672

About Stoller Wine Group

Stoller Wine Group is a family of wine brands from Oregon wine pioneer, Bill Stoller. Its brands and products are based on various price points and distribution models. They include Stoller Family Estate, Chehalem Winery, History, Canned Oregon, and Chemistry. Fun, fast-paced, and progressive, the Stoller Wine Group is always seeking to improve its brands, and company, with a lens towards sustainability and its B Corp values. For more information, visit stollerwinegroup.com

Contact: Michelle Kaufmann, Vice President of Communications, 503-864-3404

About Sunriver Brewing

Sunriver Brewing Company’s pub in the Village at Sunriver opened to rave reviews in the summer of 2012. Recognizing that the original pub would not accommodate demand, a 13,000-square foot building was purchased in the Business Park in 2014. Since that time, Sunriver Brewing Company has garnered many national and international awards for their craft beer. In February of 2016, Sunriver opened its second pub location on Galveston Avenue in Bend Oregon. The year of 2017 included a major national accomplishment with winning Small Brewing Company of the Year at the Great American Beer Festival. In 2019 Sunriver opened its third pub in the Oakway Center located in Eugene, Oregon. For more information, visit sunriverbrewingcompany.com

Contact: Ryan Duley, Director of Stuff & Things, 541-728-3453

About Fort George Brewery

Fort George Brewery is a family-owned and operated craft brewery in Astoria, Oregon. They have been making beer in Astoria for over 15 years. What started out as an 8.5 barrel system in the back of a pub has grown to become so much more than a brewery. Fort George is proud to be a member of a thriving community on the coast, operating 2 restaurants for the hungry people, a taproom for the thirsty ones, 2 smaller scale research and development breweries, one large scale production facility, and a craft-focused distributor representing a handsome portfolio of over 200 similarly-minded breweries, wineries and cideries. They distribute their original beers across the Pacific Northwest but the heart of Fort George is in Astoria. Fort George makes beer for a stronger community.

Contact:       Brian Bovenizer, Marketing Director, 503-791-2323

About PortlandCider Company

Portland Cider Company was founded in 2013 to bring hand-crafted, award-winning cider to the Northwest. The company recognizes Portland and her bold spirit as the inspiration behind their innovative ciders, and promises the cleanest, tastiest and most enjoyable cider-drinking experience the city has to offer. Portland Cider has two taproom locations in the Portland Metro Area, where they encourage all to visit, sample, and expect more from the cider they drink. For more information, visit portlandcider.com

Contact: Helen Lewis, Marketing Director, 503-305-0877

Meals on Wheels People partners with Youth Charity League to collect and distribute 4,000 books to children in underserved communities throughout the cities of Portland and Gresham

PORTLAND, Ore., June 28, 2022 — In partnership with Meals on Wheels People’s Meals 4 Kids (M4K) program, Youth Charity League (YCL) is celebrating the success of its 3rd-annual ‘Book It Forward’ children’s book drive, which supports children’s literacy throughout the greater Portland metropolitan area. During May and June, YCL accepted donations of more than 4,000 gently used and new books, along with raising funds for the purchase of Spanish language books. These books have been delivered to Meals on Wheels People for distribution through its M4K program, which serves low-income children and families in the cities of Portland and Gresham.

In response to the detrimental impacts that pandemic-related school and library closures have had on children’s literacy, YCL established ‘Book It Forward’ in 2020, with a specific focus on increasing literary access to children in underserved communities. Students who don’t read—especially over summer break—are at risk of falling behind in school, creating an achievement gap between economically disadvantaged students and their peers who experience consistent access to learning materials. ‘Book It Forward’ aims to close this gap by equipping students from underserved communities with the literacy tools they need to succeed. 

“We are very excited to partner with YCL to bring both nutritious meals and engaging books to the children we serve through our Meals 4 Kids program,” said Jessica Morris, chief people and strategy officer at MOWP. “We know that recent school years have brought considerable challenges to families—especially those that are low income and families of color. In addition to providing meals to food-insecure children and families in the cities of Portland and Gresham, delivering these books will offer educational enrichment that nourishes the minds of children in our community through the summer months.”

Through community partnerships with Powell’s Books, local schools and bookstores, and individual donations, YCL surpassed its goal to collect 4,000 books, enabling the organization to serve more children and families than in years past. The M4K program, which delivers meals to qualified children and families experiencing food insecurity, is proud to partner with YCL to remove barriers to learning and success for children facing educational disparities. 

About Meals on Wheels People: Meals on Wheels People has been changing lives, one meal at a time, since 1970. We provide more than a meal to thousands of older adults in the greater Portland metro area. Our service not only alleviates hunger and social isolation but allows seniors to live independently with dignity in their own homes. Aging in place reduces depression, falls, and hospitalization as well as the high cost of institutional care. For more information, visit: mowp.org.

About Meals 4 Kids: The Meals 4 Kids program serves qualified children and families within the cities of Portland and Gresham experiencing food insecurity who are also experiencing any of the following: Chronic condition or illness of caregiver or child; lack of facility to prepare meals; lack of ability and/or transportation to access food resources such as food pantries; other barriers impacting access to food resources and/or ability to prepare meals. Meals 4 Kids is funded by the Portland Children’s Levy, community grants and donations.

About Youth Charity League: In 2017, some Portland moms got together with the idea of creating a family-friendly volunteer organization to connect parents, caregivers, and kids to local charities. The goal was to instill a sense of community service and civic responsibility in young children in the most inclusive and easy way possible – by modeling that behavior and engaging in volunteer activities together. For more information, contact Arlene Unverzagt at aunverzagt@youthcharityleague.org or call 415-531-4155.

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Vancouver, Wash. –On June 28, 2022, at approximately 7:39 a.m., Vancouver Police responded to Pearson Field (101 E Reserve) for the report of a plane crash. When emergency personnel from the Vancouver Police Department and Vancouver Fire Department arrived, they located an aircraft on the runway on fire. Vancouver Fire personnel extinguished the fire and confirmed one person inside the aircraft was deceased. The Vancouver Police Department is conducting the death investigation. The identity of the deceased and cause and manner of death will be released from the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office pending notification of next of kin. 

Investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be conducting the investigation related to the crash. 

Nothing further is releasable at this time. 

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Vancouver, Wash. – Neighbors and community members are invited to learn about the upcoming Northeast 152nd Avenue project.

Public Works staff will host a virtual open house from 5 to 6 p.m., Wednesday, June 29, via WebEx. Residents will learn about the project’s design, environmental impacts, and construction timeline from county staff. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and offer comments. To ask questions or make comments during the meeting, registration at https://clark.wa.gov/public-works/ne-152nd-ave  is required. Registrants will receive a confirmation email with a link to join the meeting. Those who do not register can listen in by dialing 1-408-418-9388 and entering meeting number “2489 908 4713” and password “NE152,” when prompted. Callers using this method cannot use the chat function.

Community members are encouraged to email questions to the project manager before the presentation. A recording of the meeting will be available on the project website within three business days.

Improvements of Northeast 152nd Avenue corridor from Northeast Padden Parkway to Northeast 99th Street include two travel lanes, bike lanes, curb, gutter and sidewalks, and stormwater treatment via infiltration. The intersection at Northeast 99th Street will be improved to include left turn lanes and a traffic signal. The project can also accommodate a center-left turn lane at York Elementary School to facilitate traffic flow during the highest volume periods. 

More information can be found on the county’s website https://clark.wa.gov/public-works/ne-152nd-ave.  You can also find real-time information on the Public Works Twitter, Facebook and Instagram profiles, and on NextDoor.

Today's Topic: Summer Safety Tips for Parents and Kids 

Today’s children live in a world of rapidly evolving technology that sometimes even their parents struggle to understand.  Computers, mobile phones, and video games connect our children to the world, but also expose them to hidden dangers. Online predators, identity thieves, and cyber bullies use online gaming platforms, social media, and chat apps to target underage victims.  Summer is here, and the summer break is a time when kids tend to spend more time online where they can be exposed to these hidden dangers.  

Here are some tips for parents and kids this summer: 

Be involved and understand your child’s internet activity.   

Know the devices your child has access to and familiarize yourself with the social media sites, apps, and online games they use to communicate with their friends. Get involved in your kids’ online world to understand what they do online and who they communicate with. Parents should also be aware of their children’s access to the internet outside of the home. 

Set clear rules and closely monitor your child’s online activity.   

Take advantage of free parental control options and designate one place in the home where your children are allowed to access the internet.  

Teach appropriate and safe use of the internet.   

Discuss internet safety with children of all ages when they begin to engage in online activity and use internet enabled devices. The most important messages to teach are simple – many people online are not who they say they are, never communicate with people you don’t know, and be careful about what you share. Some adults use the internet to hide who they are by pretending to be an age-appropriate or relatable friend.   

Teach children to communicate only with people they know in real life – friends they see regularly and trusted relatives.   

Teach good cyber hygiene.  

Start with the basics. Teach children to use strong passwords, choose appropriate screen names, and adjust privacy settings to control who can view their profiles. Parents should also talk to their kids about the dangers of sharing personal information such as their home address, school, or class schedule, and the consequences of posting inappropriate content such revealing photos or videos or making hoax threats.   

It’s never too early to start these conversations.  

These conversations not only warn children about online dangers but can open lines of communication that make it easier for kids to approach their parents without fear of judgment or punishment.   

What should you do if your child does become a victim?  

Do not attempt to take matters into your own hands or communicate with the predator. Immediately contact local police, your local FBI Field Office, or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). Report the issue to the social media platform as well.   

By understanding your child’s internet activity and setting rules and expectations for them, you can help direct your child towards safer internet habits. You can’t always be there when they go online, but you can empower them with the right tools to navigate the Internet safely and avoid dangerous connections. 

Resources  

FBI's Safe Online Surfing (SOS) program   

NetSmartz Online Safety Education Program  

Protecting Your Kids  

Firefighters from Clark County Fire District 6 this morning battled a stubborn fire that started in a large houseless encampement between Highway 99 and I-5, west of the BPA Ross Complex. The blaze appears to have started somewhere inside the camp, and spread quickly to trees and other debris. No information on the actual cause of the fire. There is word of one person suffering non-life-threatening injuries. No firefighters were injured. 

ARCH CAPE, Ore. —The Arch Cape Domestic Water Supply District realized the vision of connecting the community to its drinking-water source with the purchase of roughly 1,500 acres of forestland. The purchase, finalized in June 2022, was made possible with $5.5 million in federal funding and $250,000 in Clatsop County funding. It will establish the publicly owned Arch Cape Forest.

The district finalized the acquisition with the current owner, Ecotrust Forests II LLC, on June 9 for $4.7 million. Purchasing the watershed, which is next to both Oswald West State Park and Cape Falcon Marine Reserve, will permanently protect the source of Arch Cape’s drinking water from the headwaters to the tap. 

“The health and resilience of the surrounding forest directly controls both the quantity     and the quality of our domestic drinking water,” said Phil Chick, District Manager, Arch Cape Domestic Water Supply District. “The acquisition of the forest permits watershed management primarily for the protection of our water, while providing potential conservation, recreation, and economic benefits.”

A healthy forest with diverse streamside vegetation is vital to holding soil in place, preventing erosion, and improving downstream water quality. All of the water consumed in Arch Cape arrives first as rain falling on spruce, hemlock and cedar trees in the upper reaches of the watershed. The headlands rise nearly 3,000 feet in the two miles between the Pacific Ocean and Onion Peak, the second highest peak in Clatsop County and one of the taller peaks in the Oregon Coast Range. Ultimately, this water makes its way down Shark and Asbury creeks to be used as a community drinking water supply. 

Funding for the project came from a variety of sources, including approximately $3.5 million from the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program. Another $2 million came from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) through Business Oregon.

Amy Singh, an administrator with the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Forest Legacy Program, explained that $3.5 million for this purchase came from the USDA Forest Service through its Land and Water Conservation Fund, which supports the nationally competitive Forest Legacy Program. 

“ODF partners with the Forest Service to evaluate worthwhile projects in Oregon where local people want to keep forestlands intact to benefit their community and economy,” said Singh. “Arch Cape is a great example of how the program does that while benefitting the environment and protecting the forested character of the area.”

Business Oregon provided $2 million in funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to help secure the land. North Coast Land Conservancy (NCLC) used the land value of a portion of the Rainforest Reserve as an in-kind match to help meet requirements of the Forest Legacy grants. Remaining match requirements were met by $250,000 from Clatsop County and nearly $300,000 from community contributions.

Attorneys Greg Fullem and Janna Davydova provided legal counsel through the pro-bono program at the Portland-based firm of Schwabe, Williamson, and Wyatt.

A shared vision for the north coast

“Although the Arch Cape Forest and Rainforest Reserve are two unique projects, they have a shared vision: protecting our forest, improving water quality, and sustaining a higher quality of life for the people, plants and wildlife that inhabit the northern Oregon Coast,” said NCLC Executive Director Katie Voelke. 

The Water District will remain the owner of the property and is advised by a community advisory committee. Sustainable Northwest, a regional nonprofit, provided strategic planning and project management to the core group of local volunteers and leaders over the course of the 5-year campaign.

In 2019, representatives of the Water District board, district staff, consultants, and community members with extensive financial and timber industry experience assembled a baseline financial plan that confirmed the feasibility for the purchase and long-term management of the property. 

In 2021, a seven-member community advisory committee voted to adopt a set of forest management policies created through a dialogue with the consulting forester, Springboard Forestry, LLC. Going forward, the community advisory committee will engage the broader public before drafting a 10-year operating plan. 

“The community forest governance model ensures that local people enjoy secure and reliable access to the ecological, social, and economic benefits produced by forests,” said Ben Dair Rothfuss, Conservation Finance Senior Manager for Sustainable Northwest. “The residents and community leaders in Arch Cape volunteered hundreds of hours to make this project possible. We believe that local engagement and ownership will make for a durable and balanced outcome as the community becomes the long-term stewards of the forest.” 

The water district is currently working with NCLC and the Nuveen Natural Capital property management staff at Lewis & Clark Timberlands’ Gearhart office, with support from consulting planners at the NPS Rivers Trails and Conservation Assistance Program, to outline a thoughtful and balanced approach to public access that will allow people to enjoy the natural beauty of the forest while preserving its ecological value. 

A broad public stakeholder engagement process is set to begin in July.

For more information on the Arch Cape Forest, visit www.archcapeforest.org/ and archcapewater.org

Fireworks Regulations, Sales and Discharge
CAMAS, Wash. – In advance of the upcoming summer season, the Camas-Washougal Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding residents that consumer fireworks can only be discharged on July 4 in Camas and Washougal. Additionally, a 2017 ordinance limits fireworks use in Washougal to safe and sane fireworks only.
Any fireworks that fly, explode, or travel more than six feet on the ground or one foot into the air (such as mortars and roman candles) do not fit the definition of safe and sane, and are illegal for use in the city limits of Washougal.
To combat the illegal use of fireworks, fire and police personnel will be patrolling neighborhoods. Camas-Washougal Fire Marshal Ron Schumacher cautions that using illegal fireworks or discharging fireworks outside of legally permitted dates and times may result in a fine and/or confiscation.
“The penalties start at $250 for the first offense, $500 fine for a second offense,” Schumacher said. “There’s $750 fine for a third offense and $1,000 fine for each subsequent offense within a three-year period,” he said.
Fireworks stands in both Camas and Washougal will be open July 2- July 4 from 9 a.m. – 11 p.m., and in Camas again on July 5 from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. The Fire Marshal’s office has provided these safety tips to ensure everyone can enjoy their legal fireworks in a safe manner:
• Be courteous and let neighbors known when you plan to use the fireworks
• Be prepared in case of fire and have a pre-connected garden hose on-hand
• Use fireworks on flat, hard surfaces away from buildings, vehicles, dry brush and bystanders
• Place discharged fireworks in a bucket full of water overnight
• Closely supervise children and pets and do not let children ignite fireworks
• Beware of sparklers, as they can cause serious burns or catch clothes on fire
• Clean up any trash left behind by fireworks
Schumacher also cautions residents to be aware of summer weather conditions and reminds those who chose to discharge fireworks to be vigilant with fireworks safety.

See attached PDF for more information.

At about 1345 hours of June 26, 2022 Sergeant Rob Stumph with the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office was traveling on Maple St in Kelso, Washington when he saw a subject he recognized as Dakota Carras sitting in a vehicle.  Carras, age 29, had outstanding warrants for his arrest. 

Sergeant Stumph activated his emergency lights and gave Carras commands to exit the vehicle.  A female standing near the car also told Carras to get out of the vehicle several times.  She told Sergeant Stumph that her children were inside the car.  Carras then fled in the vehicle.  The female subject stated that she was dating Carras, but he was not the children’s father and he did not have permission to take her children.  The female subject was also the owner of the vehicle.

Sergeant Stumph relayed this information to responding units and learned via radio that Clark County Sheriff’s Office held probable cause to arrest Carras for Robbery and Kidnapping (unrelated to this incident). Deputies and officers pursued Carras as he drove recklessly through the Lexington and Columbia Heights areas at speeds up to 90 miles per hour before he crossed the Rainier Bridge into Oregon. 

Washington and Oregon law enforcement officers pursued Carras until he was taken into custody near Knappa, Oregon.  The children, a 5-year-old and a 22-month-old, were returned to their mother unharmed.  Carras was booked into Columbia County Jail on his outstanding warrants.

The Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office is requesting charges against Dakota Carras for Kidnapping 1^st Degree – 2 counts, Reckless Endangerment – 2 counts, and Attempt to Elude a Law Enforcement Officer. 

Update on 6/27/22:

On Monday, June 27, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit and Dive Team performed additional searches for the swimmer that went missing on Sunday evening near the western edge of Lemon Island in the Columbia River. The Dive Team performed numerous dives and searched a very large area in the approximate location of where the swimmer was last seen. Unfortunately, the swimmer’s body was not located.

The swimmer is identified as 35-year-old Kevin McDowell, of Portland. McDowell reportedly jumped into the river from a boat to help a struggling swimmer and did not resurface shortly after.

Today, the divers reported challenging conditions, with limited underwater visibility and strong currents. Marine deputies will perform additional searches when call volume allows in the coming days.

Image description: Multnomah County Sheriff's Office diver prepares to enter the river

Original press release on June 26, 2022:

Around 5:15 p.m., on June 26, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit deputies responded to a report of a missing swimmer near the west end of Lemon Island in the Columbia River. Witnesses reported that the man did not resurface after jumping into the water from a boat to help a woman in the water, who was struggling to swim. The woman was able to get to safety.

Firefighters from Portland Fire & Rescue and the Port of Portland Fire Department also responded in rescue boats and helped deputies perform a series of searches that included using underwater scanning technology. A U.S Coast Guard helicopter joined the search efforts as well.

Unfortunately, after an extensive search, the swimmer was not located. It is presumed the man drowned. It was reported that he was not wearing a life jacket.

The man’s identity is being withheld until next of kin notifications are complete.

There is no further information to provide at this time.

Image description: Portland Fire & Rescue boat searching the river.

Monday, June 27, 2022-Woodland, WA-The staff of Woodland Public Schools works hard to ensure Woodland’s students have the opportunities they need to recover learning that may have been lost due to the constraints of the pandemic including remote learning.

Woodland’s schools were the first in the area to return students to in-person learning following the pandemic lockdown. “Our district was the first in the area to return elementary students to full-week in-person learning and the first to return all grades K-12 to in-person learning on a hybrid schedule,” said Superintendent Michael Green. “Those incredible milestones result from the collaborative culture and can-do spirit of our amazing staff who do everything they can to ensure the most effective student learning takes place in our schools.”

Many students continue to struggle to catch up as a result of the effects of remote learning during the pandemic. As a result, Woodland’s schools have taken efforts to provide additional learning for students who need help.

Targeted small-group learning for those in need

At the elementary level, teachers have developed targeted small-group workshops in both reading and math to provide a boost for students in need. At Woodland Middle School, students significantly below their grade’s reading level have been invited to take part in special tutoring sessions. Teachers at Woodland High School provide additional tutoring in small groups as well as support through the school’s successful Positive Academic Support System (PASS) which provides struggling students with dedicated mentors to help them stay on top of their studies.

Summer school offers high school students the chance to recover lost credits

At the elementary level, teachers have developed targeted small-group workshops in both reading and math to provide a boost for students in need. A summer school program was introduced with students selected based on academic progress. “We began inviting all current kindergarten students who needed additional support with reading and math skills,” explained Malinda Huddleston, Teaching & Learning Specialist for Woodland Public Schools. Then, we invited first grade students with a similar profile as well as students with learning needs who did not meet their goals this year.”

The summer session is running from June 21 through July 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., equivalent to a half-day of school, five days a week. Students will be taught in small groups of five students. “We will use a direct instruction approach with an emphasis on skill mastery,” said Huddleston. “Reading will focus on phonemic awareness and decoding, and the math instruction will focus on foundation skills such as number sense.”

By using smaller groups, students will have multiple opportunities to practice new skills in an environment that provides immediate feedback, intervention assistance, and offers the opportunity to celebrate success. “Target instruction benefits students who need additional support because the skills being taught are being customized to each individual students’ weakness areas,” said Huddleston.

In order to engage students further, students will take part in fun activities including snack time, recess, and group read-alouds. “Students will also set goals, receive feedback on their progress, and celebrate their success,” said Huddleston. “Learning should be fun, and that can be accomplished when students set goals, work hard to achieve them, and then get to celebrate their success with their classmates.”

At Woodland Middle School, students significantly below their grade’s reading level have been invited to take part in special tutoring sessions. Teachers at Woodland High School provide additional tutoring in small groups as well as support through the school’s successful Positive Academic Support System (PASS) which provides struggling students with dedicated mentors to help them stay on top of their studies.

Special help for English Language Learners (ELL)

Woodland also takes special care to address specific learning challenges presented to particular groups such as English Language Learners (ELL), students whose native language isn’t English who were particularly negatively affected by remote learning. “Many of our Spanish-speaking families did not have experience working with Chromebooks and often did not have access to quality broadband internet access,” explained Malinda Huddleston, Teaching & Learning Specialist for Woodland Public Schools. “By targeting these students in need, we can provide them with the additional intervention they need to catch up with their grade-level peers.”

Incoming 5^th through 7^th grade ELL students at Woodland Middle School will be invited to attend a summer school session which will provide extra support in English, Science, and Math. Like the high school summer session, transportation and meals, including breakfast and lunch, will be provided.

Upgraded heating and cooling systems will provide healthier learning

Scientific research has demonstrated that one of the most effective methods for decreasing the spread of COVID and other airborne diseases is to improve airflow and air quality. In order to accomplish this, improvements had to be made to each school’s Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems.

At Woodland Public Schools, HVAC improvements will be implemented at every single school building to ensure that clean, filtered air circulates quickly throughout classrooms in order to prevent the spread of any disease which can pass in an aerosol form. “The COVID-19 pandemic certainly demonstrated the importance of clean hygiene on every level from the thorough deep cleaning of all buildings to every individual following proper hand-washing protocols,” said Green. “Our facilities staff have taken great steps to ensure our HVAC systems work effectively to keep our staff and students healthy in every learning environment.”

Woodland’s Summer Meal Program returns for 2022

Woodland Public Schools will once again provide meals to any child 18 years old or younger throughout summer starting Tuesday, June 21, the day after the last day of school, and running Monday to Friday through Friday, August 19, the last weekday before the new school year.

While there will be no options for meal pickups this year, children can eat breakfast and lunch free-of-charge Monday through Friday at the Woodland Middle School cafeteria located at 755 Park Street, Woodland, WA 98674. Breakfast will be served from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The program will be closed on July 4 and 5 for the Independence Day holiday.

Learn more about how Woodland Public Schools educates our students and serves the community, by visiting our dedicated news webpage at www.woodlandschools.org/news/wsd

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June 27, 2022

Elisabeth.Shepard@mcda.us

Elisabeth Shepard, Communications Director

DA Mike Schmidt announces arraignment of Keffer White, 29, for attempted murder, assault 

PORTLAND, Oregon – Today Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt announced that Keffer James White, 29, was arraigned on four counts including two counts of Attempted Murder in the First Degree, one count of Assault in the First Degree, and one count of Assault in the Second Degree. 

The charges stem from an incident on the evening of Saturday, June 25. A group of people were waiting for the bus in the area of Southwest 5th Avenue and Southwest Hall Street. Witness reports and video surveillance allege that White approached the group and began talking to them. When they did not respond, he began to yell and made fun of them for being elderly. White became increasingly aggressive. He approached one man in the group, Edward Lichenstein, 88, and began attacking him, including headbutting him and shoving him to the ground. 

White then turned to another person in the group, Donald Pierce, 83, who was holding a cane for balance, and pushed him into the street and on to the ground. Once on the ground White kicked Pierce in the head and face area several times. White subsequently continued attacking Lichtenstein who was attempting to get away. Pierce also attempted to get up and White returned and attacked him again by kicking him in his head. 

Portland Police officers were in the area of the attack on an unrelated call when they heard screaming and approached the bus stop where the attack took place. The officers rendered aid to the victims and arrested White based on a witness report that White was responsible for the attack. Lichenstein and Pierce are currently in critical condition at an area hospital. 

Witnesses reported that White stated he was going to kill the victims during the attack. White is currently in custody without bail.  

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

#MCDA#

Being prepared, safe, and responsible is key to a fun and worry-free 4th of July celebration. Fireworks regulations in the City of Battle Ground allows residents to use fireworks for two days over the Independence Day Holiday – July 3 from 9 a.m. - 11 p.m. and July 4 from 9 a.m. - midnight. 

Fireworks stands are permitted to operate in the City from July 1 through July 4. Permitted stands are regularly inspected by the Fire Marshal.  Fireworks should only be purchased from permitted stands; those purchased outside of the City or Clark County’s jurisdictions may not be safe or legal to use.

Regulations for the sale and use of fireworks vary in individual municipalities within Clark County, including unincorporated Battle Ground.  An online interactive map allows the public to easily determine fireworks use regulations based on any street address within Clark County.

Fireworks Call Center
CRESA will staff a fireworks and nuisance call center from July 2 - 4; 8pm - 1am.  Callers should refrain from calling 911 and/or 311 for fireworks violations. 

Only call 911 if: 

• Someone is injured from a firework.
• There is a fire started by a firework.
• You witness someone attempting to start a fire with a firework.
• You witness someone assaulting someone with a firework.

Otherwise, the Firework Call Center can be reached at 360-597-7888.

Be Prepared before lighting any firework:

• Know the fireworks law in your area.
• Purchase only legal fireworks, available at Washington State licensed stands.
• Ensure the safety of pets and keep them secured; the loud sounds make them nervous. 
• Have a bucket of water nearby in which to place all used fireworks.
• Keep a water hose or fire extinguisher nearby to put out stray sparks.
• Clear a level area away from things that can burn.
• Teach your children to “stop, drop, and roll” if their clothes catch on fire.

Be Safe when fireworks are being lit:

• Use only outdoors on a level, flat, hard surface.
• Only adults should light fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.
• Do not lean over fireworks when lighting them.
• Keep spectators at a safe distance (recommend 20 feet from fireworks).
• Keep away from anything that can burn.
• Follow the directions on the label carefully.
• Be considerate of your neighbors, family pets, and your environment.
• Follow the time restrictions for discharge.

Be Responsible after the fireworks are done:

• Clean up all debris when finished.
• Duds can be dangerous; if a firework item does not light or fire, an adult should wait at least fifteen minutes, approach it carefully, and place it in a bucket of water.
• Make sure unused fireworks, matches, and lighters are out of sight and reach of children.
• Before throwing away any used fireworks, make sure they are cold. Soaking in a bucket of water for at least 10 minutes before placing the fireworks in a plastic garbage bag will ensure they won’t catch anything on fire.

“The use of fireworks can lead to unintended injuries and fires,” said Battle Ground Fire Marshal Chris Drone, “It is important that you use every safety measure if choosing to use fireworks”

We think Independence Day is worth celebrating. If you celebrate with fireworks, do so safely. Know the regulations in your area, be prepared with a safety plan, and be respectful of your neighbors and surroundings.  City of Battle Ground fireworks regulations and a Fireworks Safety Plan are available on the City’s website at www.cityofbg.org/fireworks.
 

In response to a dramatic increase in stolen vehicles in Clark County in the last 12 months, the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Clark County Jail and the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, conducted a high intensity Stolen Vehicle Emphasis for several days over the last few weeks.  This emphasis was conducted despite record staffing shortages in the Jail and the Enforcement Branches. 

The focus of the emphasis was to locate and arrest individuals who were in possession of stolen vehicles, recover the vehicles, book the individuals into jail and ensure that they were charged for these crimes.  This emphasis would not have been possible without the cooperation of the entire jail staff,  the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the dedicated deputies of the Clark County Sheriff’s Office.  During the course of the emphasis, some assistance was provided from regional partners such as the Vancouver Police and Portland Police Bureau.

At one point during this emphasis, detectives located a vehicle with multiple occupants in the parking lot of a retail store in Hazel Dell.  As detectives watched, one person exited the vehicle and stole a vehicle parked in the next spot.  When sufficient resources were obtained both vehicles were stopped and all of the occupants were detained.  Several arrests were made and the vehicle was returned to its owner within 30 minutes.  

In addition to this example, the emphasis had the following results:
• 18 Stolen Vehicles Recovered
• 32 Arrests
• 46 Total New Charges
• 17 Warrants Cleared
• 1 Firearm Seized

The Sheriff’s Office recognizes the impact that the dramatic increase in crime has had on the families that live and work here in Clark County.  We will continue to make every effort to hold criminals accountable every day of the year and, when staffing and resources allow, will continue to conduct these kinds of operations with the goal of reducing crime and increasing livability here in Clark County.

Portland, OR — The Oregon Historical Society (OHS) is proud to announce that 46 middle and high school students from across the state of Oregon participated in this year’s virtual National History Day® (NHD) contest, presenting individual or group projects in one of five categories: documentary, exhibit, paper, performance, or website. Four Oregon entries made it to the Finals Round and ranked among the top 10 in the nation, with two projects placing second and third in their categories. These high-quality entries advanced to compete against more than 2,700 students from across the country after placing first or second in the virtual Oregon History Day contest.

Longtime NHD participant Anja Jolin, a senior at St. Mary’s Academy, placed second in the nation for her senior paper, “Delegitimizing Diplomacy: The Berlin West Africa Conference.” Having competed in NHD since 8th grade, this paper is the capstone of an incredibly impressive career in the contest, with previous projects winning the national affiliate awards for Oregon and placing as high as 8th in the nation. Jolin has used her NHD projects to explore a wide variety of topics over the years, including South Africa’s transition to democracy, policewomen breaking barriers in Portland, and the legal impacts of the Berhanu v. Metzger trial. 

For her 2022 paper, Jolin found that “primary sources from the African perspective were particularly difficult to find because of limited written documentation from this time period and the destruction of historical artifacts that occurred under European colonial systems.” She therefore “relied on primary source quotes and excerpts contained within secondary sources” and was able to successfully make the “historical argument . . . that under the guise of diplomacy, European leaders at the Berlin Conference established rules for the occupation of Africa that ignored the rights and interests of Africans. The resulting partition of Africa into European-controlled colonies left a legacy of economic and political instability that persists to this day.”

Sunset High School freshman Jasper Gu’s senior individual exhibit, The Orphan Drug Act: How Debate and Diplomacy Improved Healthcare for Orphan Disease Patients, placed third in the nation after having previously finished second at this year’s Oregon History Day contest. Gu’s exhibit was exceptional in that he interviewed Henry Waxman, the congressman credited with creating the Orphan Drug Act who was the chair of the Health and Environment Subcommittee at the time (1983). Gu first competed in History Day as a middle school student with his exhibit Rosalind Franklin: The Discovery of DNA’s Structure and the Impact on Women in STEM. Judges remarked that they learned a lot from his 2022 National History Day project and that he used a “great application of data to illustrate [the] points being made.” 

Three additional entries also earned special awards for their excellent work. McKenzie Rose of Echo School was honored by the National Museum of American History for the second consecutive year by having her senior individual exhibit, The Debatable Trent Affair: How Strategic Diplomacy Prevented War, included in the Smithsonian Learning Lab’s virtual showcase. One student project is nominated by the state coordinator for this honor, and Rose’s project stood out thanks to her thorough research and excellent design. Her exhibit was also honored with the United States Naval and Maritime History: Preserve, Promote, and Celebrate Award for Oregon this year.

The ACCESS Academy team of Alexa Buckley, Franka Gronke, Hazel Miranda Zellnik, Jolee Ray, and Fiona Snyder and Helix School’s MayaBella Texior earned the Outstanding Affiliate Award at the junior and senior level respectively. Both projects placed among the top ten in the nation and were created by students who were participating in History Day for the first time. In the award-winning junior group performance, The 1912 Oregon Suffrage Vote: How Tactics Make and Break Debates, the students argued that a major factor in the success of the Oregon suffrage movement was the mass advertising campaigns deployed to promote the movement. One judge at the national contest noted of Texidor’s senior individual documentary, EXCOMM: The Internal Debates of Kennedy's Secret Council, “that this documentary was your first attempt at video-making is astonishing to me. I sincerely hope it won’t be your last.” Judges also commended Texidor for focusing her project on EXCOMM, rather than the larger Cuban Missile Crisis. 

“Each year, we are inspired by students’ History Day projects, which continue to show us that there are no limits to the questions we can ask of the past and the insights we can gain from exploring those questions,” said Eliza E. Canty-Jones, OHS Chief Program Officer.

OHS is proud of the hard work and countless hours these students and their teachers spent on these projects and wish to congratulate them along with all the students who participated in the Oregon History Day program this year. A big thank you to the Oregon volunteer judges as well for their excellent input, which helped students improve their projects ahead of their national debut. OHS is eager to see what students create for next year’s contest around the theme “Frontiers in History: People, Places, Ideas.”

About Oregon History Day:

Oregon History Day, part of National History Day^®, is a renowned, evidence-based middle and high school program. Facilitated by the Oregon Historical Society, this culturally responsive program invites students to interpret a historical event that connects to the annual theme by creating a website, paper, performance, exhibit, or documentary.

Oregon History Day is a highly adaptable program. Students can select their own topic to research, or teachers can choose a broad category to guide their students’ projects. With the assistance of educators, librarians, and online resources, students analyze primary and secondary sources to develop and support their thesis. Creating an Oregon History Day project is immensely rewarding for students, many of whom participate over consecutive years. Oregon History Day meets the state standards in multiple subjects and can support the teaching of standards related to Ethnic Studies, Tribal History / Shared History, and Holocaust and Genocide education.

Educators are encouraged to contact the Oregon Historical Society by emailing y.day@ohs.org">history.day@ohs.org if they are interested in bringing this program to their classroom. For more information on National History Day®, visit www.nhd.org.

About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than a century, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms & website (www.ohs.org), educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and rich as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view. 

UPDATE (6/27/22): The suspicious death Tigard Police responded to yesterday is now considered a homicide investigation.

Officers were called to the Just Compassion Resource Center, which provides services to people experiencing houselessness, just before 1 PM on Sunday. Arriving officers found a man dead in a backyard area of the property. 

The victim in this case is William Edward Mayberry, age 53. Investigators believe Mr. Mayberry was killed by Harrison Douglas-Myles McBride, age 26. Both men have ties to the property and Mr. McBride had recently been trespassed.

Mr. McBride has been taken to the Washington County Jail charged with second-degree murder. He is also facing additional charges for unrelated probation violations.

No information about potential motive is available at this time.

ORIGINAL (6/26/22): Tigard Police are on the scene of a suspicious death investigation.

At 12:49pm officers were called to the 12200 block of SW Hall Blvd. Arriving officers found an adult man deceased. His death is considered suspicious and a person of interest is being interviewed by police. There is no ongoing threat to the community in connection with this investigation.

Investigators are talking to witnesses and processing the scene. An update should be available tomorrow.

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DATE: Tuesday, June 28, 2022

TIME: 5:00 Budget Hearing & 6:00 Regular Meeting

LOCATION: Hockinson High School Library

ADDRESS: 16819 NE 159th St, Brush Prairie, WA 98606

On June 27, 2022, at approximately 6:45 A.M., A semi-truck with a crane boom and a flatbed trailer was traveling eastbound on I-84 near milepost 42 when a tire blew. The truck, operated by Marvin Klopfenstein (37), plowed through the cement barrier into the east-bound lane where it jackknifed and rolled onto its side. The truck slid on the cement barrier and caught on fire. The driver escaped with only minor injuries.

I-84 remains closed in both directions. The Oregon Department of Transportation is diligently working with Gerlock towing and US Ecology on the cleanup. An estimated 200 gallons of fuel, oil, and antifreeze came from the vehicle. The pavement was gouged in places that will need to be repaired before the highway re-opening.

OSP was assisted by Multnomah County Sheriff’s office, ODOT, Cascade Locks Fire, Gerlock Towing, and Purdy’s towing. US Ecology responded for environmental cleanup.

For information regarding the highway reopening, visit www.tripcheck.com  

Providing a new way to get out into nature for people with mobility challenges, David’s Chair Outdoor Mobility Systems, American Legion Post 158 and Oregon Parks Forever are collaborating to bring the first of 10 additional locations where mobility challenged visitors can pick up and use an electric all-terrain wheelchair.

Starting July 1, a chair and trailer will be housed at American Legion Post 158 at 8635 Scoffins St., Tigard, OR and can be reserved through davidschair.org.

These chairs will provide a new freedom for a mobility challenged park visitor - to get off the pavement and out into nature.

With increased accessibility to trails, lakes, rivers and beaches, through demanding conditions like sand, snow and mud, mobility-impaired visitors will be able to participate in activities never-before possible.

From birdwatching and fishing, to riding along the beach, to simply enjoying the fresh air and solitude of nature, these all-terrain chairs will invite many new people to share the wonders of the great outdoors in our parks.

Anyone with mobility impairment, requiring the assistance of wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, canes or crutches, will be able to use these chairs.

See these chairs in action at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4KIrqu47WY

See a video testimonial here: 

Over the next couple of years, the partners are working to locate hosts at American Legion, VFW and Tourism related entities along the Oregon Coast and the I-5 corridor where a chair and trailer can be stored and made available for free use by visitors with mobility challenges. 

We are doing this to provide easier access to these chairs to a wider number of people.  Under the current operating model for David’s Chair, anyone wishing to borrow one of their seven current chairs (for free) must bring a trailer hitch-enabled vehicle to Medford and pick up a chair and trailer to take where they would like to use it.  This severely limits access to other parts of the state.  One of the most popular uses for these chairs is to get out on the beach, hence our desire for host locations along the Oregon Coast.  Also, there are many parks in areas such as Springfield, Eugene, Salem and Portland along the I-5 corridor that visitors would like to access.

Reservations for free use can be made at: www.davidschair.org.  In order to maintain availability, chairs may only be reserved for no more than two days at a time.

A media event will be hosted by David’s Chair on Friday, July 1^st at Champoeg State Heritage Area, south of Wilsonville from 10:30am to 1:00 PM at the Townsite Day Use Area.  David’s Chair CEO Steve Furst and American Legion Commander-elect Allyson Kropf will be available there for interviews and demonstration of the chair that will be housed in Tigard. Please contact us in advance to schedule a time to give you special attention

Signature fundraiser helps support Museum educational programs

BEND, OR — For the first time since 2019, the High Desert Museum’s signature fundraiser, High Desert Rendezvous, will take place in person at the Museum on Saturday, August 27 from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm. This marks the 33^rd year of the High Desert Rendezvous, making it one of the longest-running fundraisers in Central Oregon.

“Returning in person after two years makes this a very special High Desert Rendezvous,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “We will gather together again, celebrate the Museum’s 40^th anniversary and the accomplishments of the past year, and raise a glass to our generous community.”

In addition to dinner, a raffle and entertainment, Rendezvous is also a chance to bid on art by traditional and contemporary artists in the juried exhibition and silent auction Art in the West, which opens at the Museum on Saturday, July 23. A gallery guide of the artwork in the exhibition will be available on the Museum’s website on July 18 at highdesertmuseum.org/aiw.

An individual ticket for Rendezvous is $150 for members and $200 for nonmembers, and for a couple the event costs $300 for members and $350 for nonmembers. Sponsorship tables are available for parties of eight or 10. A list of sponsor benefits including VIP perks and community recognition can be viewed at highdesertmuseum.org/hdr. 

The 2022 Rendezvous Honoree is Cameron Kerr. The wife of Museum founder Don Kerr and a self-described “lifetime volunteer,” she has been an active and stalwart supporter since the institution opened in 1982. Today, she is a Museum Trustee and Collections 

Committee Chair, and she can be seen regularly in the Museum’s collections department helping volunteers and supporting staff. 

“Cameron is a treasured friend of the Museum and a meaningful Honoree for our 40^th year,” Whitelaw said. “She has supported the staff, volunteers and visitors since the very beginning and through four decades of growth.”

This year’s High Desert Rendezvous silent auction will take place online. It’s packed with luxurious items and one-of-a-kind experiences, from wine tastings in California to stays at your favorite Central Oregon resorts. Online bidding opens Friday, August 19 and ends on Monday, August 29. 

We are grateful to all the generous businesses and organizations that donate items and experiences to our silent auction. Those interested in donating items to be featured in the High Desert Rendezvous silent auction may contact Senior Donor Relations Manager Megan Kantrim at im@highdesertmuseum.org">mkantrim@highdesertmuseum.org or call 541-382-4754 ext. 332. 

The High Desert Rendezvous helps support the Museum’s educational programs, ensuring the Museum continues to be a place where people and the landscape thrive together.

The 33^rd annual High Desert Rendezvous is presented by First Interstate Bank. 

Learn more about and register for the High Desert Rendezvous at highdesertmuseum.org/hdr. 

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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Vancouver, WA – A benefit concert featuring Doug Smith, Grammy award winner and US National Fingerstyle Champion, along with Shohei Toyoda, Japan’s National Finger-Picking Champion, will be held Sat., July 2, 5-7 p.m., at Vancouver United Church of Christ, 1220 NE 68th Street. 

A $20 suggested donation includes complimentary light food & beverages for the two-hour indoor concert. Donations will benefit both Friends of the Carpenter and Vancouver United Church of Christ. Call or text Harry Smith (360) 768-6454 to RSVP; seating is limited.

Acoustic Guitarist Doug Smith is a Grammy award winner and the 2006 winner of the prestigious Winfield International Fingerstyle Guitar Competition. Smith’s playing has been heard on the big screen in the popular 2007 film August Rush and his original compositions are heard everywhere from NPR to TCM to Martha Stewart to Good Morning America. His playing combines folk, classical and jazz elements and has been called “a cross between Chet Atkins, Leo Kottke and Michael Hedges.”

Shohei Toyoda was born in Japan and raised in Dublin, Ohio. He moved to Boston in 2004 to further pursue his musical education at Berklee College of Music. In December 2010, Toyoda released his first solo instrumental album, “The Hills Have Ears.” He currently resides in Kyoto, Japan, working as a performing guitarist all over the country.  

About Friends of the Carpenter

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

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Vancouver, Wash. – Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (VPRCS) will host a free park naming celebration at 7 p.m. Friday, July 15 at Nikkei Neighborhood Park (N.E. 52^nd St. and N.E. 137^th Ave.). The event will feature Japanese storytelling by Alton Takiyama-Chung, a performance from Portland Taiko and live music from the Minidoka Swing Band.

A committee comprised of Vancouver residents and VPRCS staff researched a broad range of potential park names that would highlight the history of Vancouver. The committee narrowed the list to three options and the final name was selected by neighbors who live near the park through an online poll. The new park’s name was adopted by Vancouver City Council on Sept. 27, 2021, but a celebration was put on hold due to COVID-19.

Nikkei is a Japanese word used to identify the community of Japanese emigrants and their descendants. The name Nikkei Park was chosen to honor the Japanese American truck farmers who grew crops in the early 1900s in the area where the park is now located. Truck farmers were a vital part of the local food supply. By 1930, 47% of truck farmers in Clark County were Japanese American. 

During World War II, Vancouver's Japanese American farmers were forcibly removed from their homes and sent to "internment" prison camps. Of the 19 Japanese American households on record in Clark County in 1940, only one moved back after release from the prison camps. That family was required to buy their land back from its caretaker and start over from scratch. 

Selecting the name Nikkei Park is a way to remember the families that experienced this great injustice and honor their legacy with a place that is filled with beauty, joy and a sense of belonging. Watch a video highlighting the history of Japanese truck farmers.

Parking is limited and free overflow parking is available at nearby Image Elementary School (5201 NE 131st Ave.). Carpooling, ridesharing, and biking is also recommended where possible. Immediately following the naming celebration, the park will host a free screening of the animated film “Sing 2.” Attendees are encouraged to pack a picnic and spend the evening enjoying the beauty of Nikkei Park.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is accepting applications from local organizations for grants that encourage historic preservation and programs, including preservation of historic documents.

The Historical Promotion Grants program is designed to increase awareness and education to better preserve, exhibit, and/or interpret local history and historic preservation.

Applicants must be either a non-profit organization or public entity within the boundaries of Clark County that promotes our local history. Applicants also must either operate or own a museum or similar historical institution or perform educative, interpretive, or similar activities.

Applications, grant guidelines, and other information are available online at www.clark.wa.gov/community-planning/historical-promotion-grants-program or by emailing icpreservation@clark.wa.gov">historicpreservation@clark.wa.gov.

The deadline for submitting completed applications is 5 pm, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022.

The Historic Preservation Commission will review applications in the fall and submit recommendations to the County Council in November. Grants will be awarded in December and grant funds will be available in January 2023.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A former Portland attorney pleaded guilty today to multiple felony charges after perpetrating a scheme to defraud her clients and use the proceeds to pay for personal expenses.

Lori E. Deveny, 56, pleaded guilty to mail, bank, and wire fraud; aggravated identity theft; money laundering; and filing a false tax return.

According to court documents, between April 2011 and May 2019, Deveny systematically stole funds she held in trust for her clients. The funds were derived from insurance proceeds due and payable to her clients. Deveny is accused of forging client signatures on settlement documents she sent to various insurance companies, making unauthorized transfers of funds to personal accounts and falsely telling clients that the insurance companies were to blame for delays in settling claims. Many of Deveny’s clients never received the insurance payout they were owed.

Deveny used the proceeds of her scheme to pay for personal credit card and loan payments, numerous big game hunting trips to Africa and the resulting taxidermy costs, other vacations, her husband’s photography business, home remodeling, expensive cigars and other expenses associated with a lavish lifestyle.

On May 7, 2019, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 24-count indictment charging Deveny with mail, bank, and wire fraud; aggravated identity theft; money laundering; and filing a false tax return.

Deveny will be sentenced on November 23, 2022, before U.S. District Court Judge Michael W. Mosman. 

As part of her plea agreement, Deveny has also agreed to pay restitution in full to her victims as determined by the government and ordered by the court.

Mail and wire fraud are punishable by up to 20 years in prison and money laundering is punishable by up to 10 years. All three offenses carry maximum fines of $250,000 or twice the gross gains or losses resulting from the offense and three years’ supervised release. Bank fraud is punishable by up to 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine, and five years’ supervised release. Filing a false tax return is punishable by up to three years in prison, a $250,000 fine or twice the gross gains or losses resulting from the offense, and one year of supervised released. Aggravated identity theft is punishable by up to two years in prison running consecutive to any other carceral sentence imposed.

U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug of the District of Oregon made the announcement.

This case was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and the FBI and is being prosecuted by Claire M. Fay, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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[PORTLAND, ORE.] The Portland Business Alliance and Downtown Portland are proud to sponsor the Waterfront Blues Festival, downtown Portland's largest and longest-running music festival, celebrating its 35th anniversary! The COVID-19 pandemic paused this beloved Festival for the past two years. However, we are pleased to see the Festival return to Tom McCall Waterfront Park during the Fourth of July weekend, July 1-4, 2022.  

The 2022 Festival format will have a total of four stages in addition to the return of Oregon's largest July 4th fireworks display, Blues Cruises!   

This year, the Festival is bringing 100+ world-class blues, soul, funk, and R&B artists into the heart of Downtown Portland with celebrated headliners that include: Grammy-award-winning Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band; soulful folk heroes The Wood Brothers; New Orleans legends Galactic, featuring Anjelika Jelly Joseph; international superstar Femi Kuti & The Positive Force; genre-busting funk band Lettuce; powerhouse soul duo The War and Treaty; and more.  

"Whether it's what you're seeing on-stage with legendary performers who've defined the genre alongside up-and-comers who continue to push it forward, or in the crowd with fans who came to the festival when they were kids who are now bringing their children- the entire weekend is a true celebration of the genre and everything it influences."- Peter Dammann, Artistic Director, Waterfront Blues Festival.  

We look forward to seeing you at the Waterfront this coming Fourth of July weekend! 

About Waterfront Blues Festival: Waterfront Blues Festival is downtown Portland’s largest and longest-running music festival and one of the most renowned celebrations of the blues in the world. 2022 marks the 35th anniversary of the festival and a jubilant return to downtown Portland’s Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Since 1988, Waterfront Blues Festival has welcomed over 2,000 acts, garnered international acclaim, and raised over $10 million dollars to support local community organizations. The festival continues to build upon a longstanding legacy and fanbase while also welcoming new artists and audiences by bringing the most exciting and dynamic blues, soul, funk and R&B artists to the stage for a can’t-miss Fourth of July Weekend. Learn more at http://www.waterfrontbluesfest.com/ and @waterfrontblues.  

About Downtown Portland: The Downtown Marketing Initiative is a program of the Portland Business Alliance, Greater Portland’s Chamber of Commerce, that promotes Downtown Portland to the greater Portland metro region. Marketing programs include holiday promotional efforts, robust social media messaging, events and programming, seasonal cooperative retail and restaurant promotions, and public relations campaigns to promote Downtown businesses. Downtown businesses may participate in the program at no charge. Visit DowntownPortland.org for more information. 

On June 26, 2022 at approximately 9:23 PM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 99E at SE Jennings Avenue in Milwaukie. 

Preliminary investigation revealed a northbound red Harley Davidson, operated by James Sheehan (57) of Portland, collided with a southbound silver Mazda MZ3, operated by David Norby (76) of Oregon City, that was turning left across traffic.  

Sheehan sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. Norby was uninjured. 

OSP was assisted by Gladstone Police Department, Clackamas Fire Department, AMR and ODOT. 

On Jun 26 , 2022 at approximately 10:05 PM deputies and emergency personnel responded to a single vehicle crash involving a pedestrian at the 4000 block of Lancaster and Ibex. Arriving responders located the pedestrian who was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

This area of Lancaster was closed for approximately 4 hours while members of the Marion County Sherriff's Office CRASH team conducted an investigation. 

The identity of the male pedestrian is not being released at this time pending notification of next of kin.

The 19 year old male driver remained on scene; no citations or arrests have been made at this time.     

Investigators are asking anyone who may have information about the crash to call our non-emergency number at 503-588-5032

You’ve probably grown so accustomed to seeing fire hydrants in your neighborhood you take them for granted. 

It’s a different story for rural homeowners. They’re likely quite aware of the lack of fire hydrants, and not just because of the greater challenge of fighting fire.  You see, rural areas without fire hydrants pay more for residential fire insurance.

In Washington State, insurance companies depend on Protection Class Ratings from the Washington State Survey and Ratings Bureau to determine fire insurance rates.  It’s kind of like the game of golf—the lower score the better. In this case, the lower the rating the potential for a lower the premium. Clark County District 6 has a WSRB rating of “3”, and that’s considered to be a very good rating.  However, in the upper northwest quadrant of our District—where there are no hydrants, homeowners face a Protection Class 7 or 8A, which costs them an estimated $500 dollars more a year in insurance premiums than most ratepayers.

We’ve worked hard to change those numbers and address the community risk.

Clark County Fire District 6 solicited an agreement with our neighbor to the north to lower those insurance rates.  Under a working agreement Clark Cowltiz Fire Rescue would agree to respond a water-tender to those rural areas. A tender is basically a very large water tank on wheels that provides water to fire engines and substitutes for a fire hydrant.  We recently tested the combination of tender and Fire District 6 engines with WSRB and they passed the testing requirements.

This process is now certified, and we urge community members to send the WSRB Certification Letter to their homeowners insurance companies to see the reduction in cost. We estimate this change will save 900 people in 340 residences an average of $500 annually. 

“District 6 is continually looking to reduce WSRB ratings to benefit our citizens,” says CCFD6 Fire Chief, Kristan Maurer. “It is important to us to reduce the financial impact of those who live in District boundaries while providing the best service and ensuring safety.”

On June 25, 2022 at approximately 6:58 PM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a single vehicle motorcycle crash on Hwy 20 near milepost 55, approximately 25 miles east of Sweet Home. 

Preliminary investigation revealed a westbound blue Harley Davidson Electra Glide, operated by Mark Nelson (57) of Lebanon, lost control and crashed into the westbound embankment. 

Nelson sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

OSP was assisted by Sweet Home Fire Department and ODOT. 

Today, the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust published its Spring 2022 Grants Report which can be viewed here (full URL below):

• The report details 76 grants to nonprofits serving the Pacific Northwest totaling $32.5 million. A full list of grantees by state can be found here (full URL below).
• This includes 29 grants to nonprofits serving Washington communities totaling $12 million.
• Also, the Murdock Trust published its 2021 Annual Report on Friday which details 466 grants awarded totaling $90 million (a record for the nonprofit foundation).

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Spring 2022 Quarterly Grants Report: https://murdocktrust.org/2022/06/spring-2022-quarterly-grants-report-stewarding-the-mission/

List of Spring 2022 Grantees by state: https://murdocktrust.org/app/uploads/2022/06/Quarterly-Grants-Report-Spring-2022.pdf

2021 Annual Report: https://murdocktrust.org/annualreport/

Today, the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust published its Spring 2022 Grants Report which can be viewed here (full URL below):

• The report details 76 grants to nonprofits serving the Pacific Northwest totaling $32.5 million. A full list of grantees by state can be found here (full URL below).
• This includes 27 grants to nonprofits serving Oregon communities totaling $11.3 million.
• Also, the Murdock Trust published its 2021 Annual Report on Friday which details 466 grants awarded totaling $90 million (a record for the nonprofit foundation).

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Spring 2022 Quarterly Grants Report: https://murdocktrust.org/2022/06/spring-2022-quarterly-grants-report-stewarding-the-mission/

List of Spring 2022 Grantees by state: https://murdocktrust.org/app/uploads/2022/06/Quarterly-Grants-Report-Spring-2022.pdf

2021 Annual Report: https://murdocktrust.org/annualreport/

With fireworks sales beginning on Tuesday, June 28^th, Longview Fire Marshal Jon Dunaway reminds residents to use fireworks safely and responsibly and to comply with all local and state laws.

According to the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office, in 2021 there were 842 reported fireworks-related fires caused by fireworks - resulting in losses totaling over $4.5 million within Washington State.  The National Fire Protection Association reports that fireworks start over 19,000 fires and send over 9,000 people to emergency departments each year in the United States.

“If you are going to be celebrating July 4^th with consumer fireworks, be sure you are aware of how to use them to reduce your chances of injuries and fires.  Also, become familiar with the laws regarding which fireworks are legal and when they can be used”, Dunaway said.  “Don’t become a statistic.” 

Dunaway also emphasized that the use of personal fireworks without a permit in Longview city parks is illegal.  “Over the years, we’ve seen damage to plastic play structures from fireworks.  When damaged they must be repaired or replaced for the safety of the children who play on them, which gets expensive” he said. 

• Be Prepared - Use only legal fireworks that are purchased locally at licensed sales locations.  Fireworks purchased outside of the city (such as on Tribal lands or online) are often of a type not allowed by state law.  Keep pets indoors so they don’t get scared and run away.  And always have a source of water nearby (a bucket of water or garden hose) just in case.
• Be Safe – Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings, vehicles, and dry vegetation.  Follow the directions on the device and do not hold in your hand or throw fireworks.  Always place fireworks on a hard, level surface so that they don’t tip over.  Never try to re-light a ‘dud’ – wait 20 minutes and then place it in a bucket of water.
• Be Responsible – Soak all used fireworks in water overnight to be sure they are completely cold before placing them in the trash.      Never place used fireworks debris in or near your home.  Keep matches and lighters away from children.  And be a good neighbor – use fireworks only during legal dates / times and discharge them in a manner that keeps debris on your property.     

Fireworks can be used in the City of Longview during these dates and times:

June 28^th                                                      12:00 p.m. (noon) to 11:00 p.m.

June 29^th through July 3^rd                              9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

July 4^th                                                         9:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight)

July 5^th                                                         9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

          December 31^st (New Year’s Eve)                     6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. on January 1^st

To report complaints about fireworks, please call the Longview Police Department non-emergency number at 360-442-5800, Option #4.   

For additional information about fireworks use and safety, visit the Longview Fire Department’s web page at https://www.mylongview.com/656/Fireworks.  You can also contact us at 360-442-5503 or via e-mail at LFD@mylongview.com.

Santiam Horse Camp in the Santiam State Forest re-opens to campers starting Friday, July 1, with opportunities to book reservations opening today.

Santiam Horse Camp was damaged in the 2020 Labor Day fires, and was closed for the 2021 camping season. You can make a reservation for dates after July 1, 2022. Santiam Horse Camp is primarily for people camping with horses, and some spots are reserved exclusively for equestrians. To make a reservation, visit reserveamerica.com and search for Santiam Horse Camp.

Maps, closure areas, and anticipated re-opening timelines for popular areas are posted to the Santiam State Forest recovery site at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/recreation/Pages/santiam-state-forest.aspx. Re-openings will also be announced on ODF’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Visitors to the area are likely to see a patchwork of fire effects from the 2020 Labor Day fires. Most trees in the camp area survived, but staff and volunteers had to rebuild corrals and other infrastructure. Other areas close to the camp were heavily damaged. Visitors are asked to respect all closures and take particular caution in burned areas.

No matter where you go, outdoor activity comes with some level of risk. Here are some safety tips:

• Do not enter closed areas.
• Take extra caution when recreating in burned areas.
• Be careful when driving on single-lane gravel roads in the forest. Active recovery and logging operations are underway. Keep to the right and anticipate oncoming traffic such as trucks, heavy equipment, and other vehicles.
• Many forest roads cross multiple ownerships, and levels of road maintenance can vary accordingly.
• Respect all land closures, public and private.

GRESHAM, Ore. – Gresham is excited to announce that for the first time since 2019, the City is offering in-person youth recreation activities again through its popular Summer Kids in the Park (SKIP) program. 

After two summers of providing only lunches and take-home activity kits due to COVID-19 restrictions, City staff hope to see kids of all ages back at three SKIP sites starting Monday, June 27.

“The opportunity for this type of in-person engagement and recreation is something the pandemic robbed us of,” said Joe Walsh, Parks and Recreation Manager. “We’re glad to finally be able to provide these opportunities that youth need back to our community.”

The seven-week recreation program runs through Aug. 12 and is free and open to all kids up to age 18.

Fire and Ice day (noon-2 p.m.)

To celebrate the return to full activities, the City has included special guests for Monday’s opening day at Main City Park. Barring any last-minute emergency calls, Gresham Fire will be on hand to give a fire truck tour, answer questions about firefighting, and test out the fire hose. Afterward, youth can cool down with a free shaved ice treat from Kona Ice. Staff from Parks and Recreation and the YMCA will also be leading a variety of large group games for kids of all ages.

In partnership with the YMCA and Play Grow Learn, SKIP will run for two hours every weekday at Main City, Red Sunset and Nadaka Nature Park. A free lunch will be served, and kids can just drop in. No advance registration is required.

SKIP Parks and Recreation Summer Program Schedule

Red Sunset Park, 2403 NE Red Sunset Drive
Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Lunch served from noon-12:30 p.m.

Main City Park, 219 S. Main Ave.
Monday through Friday, noon-2 p.m.
Lunch served from noon-12:30 p.m.

Nadaka Nature Park, 

Monday through Friday, noon-2 p.m.
Lunch served from noon-12:30 p.m.

Fun and healthy activities such as tag, soccer and arts and crafts will take place at each location. The Gresham-Barlow School District’s free summer lunch program will serve the three parks daily from noon-12:30 p.m.

Parents and guardians are advised to stay at the park while youth are participating in SKIP; children younger than age 8 should not be left without supervision.

For more information, visit GreshamOregon.gov/SKIP or call 503-618-2525.

About Gresham:

Gresham is a welcoming community of hard-working people where tradition and heritage meet innovation and opportunity in Oregon's fourth largest city. Gresham’s residents care deeply about our roots as a homestead and agricultural community and are committed to building a vibrant future. Today, Gresham is a dynamic, innovative, and rapidly growing city with a desire to thrive. In Gresham, we are family. To learn more, visit www.GreshamOregon.gov or visit us on Twitter at @CityofGresham.

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[MEDIA INVITE: The Portland Business Alliance welcomes media partners to join us for a very special Annual Meeting, presented by U.S. Bank!]

Media is invited to join the Portland Business Alliance and business association partners from around the state for the unveiling of a comprehensive report that details the Oregon's unique and powerful Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation economy ecosystem. Hosted at Providence Park, this year’s annual meeting will offer participants a unique look into the State of the Economy with a state-wide analysis on the profound impacts offered by the Greater Portland, Bend and Eugene’s Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation industries.

As a hub for sporting goods and apparel design, as well as a national destination for outdoor recreation, the State of Oregon’s Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation ecosystem is unparalleled in the U.S. and across the globe. And this July, Oregon is playing host to the 2022 World Athletics Championships, offering a global glimpse into the state’s unique environment for sports innovation and growth.

At this year’s meeting, the internationally recognized HR&A Advisors, Inc. will unveil a special report, Oregon: The State of Sport, and offer highlights on the trends of Oregon’s sporting ecosystem, which is anchored in Greater Portland and has robust nodes of innovation in Bend – where startups and tech companies are growing – and Eugene. This report is the:

• Largest of its kind. This is the most robust report to date that articulates Oregon’s competitive advantage and measures the benefits that the athletic, outdoor, team and recreation industries generate for the state.
• First of its kind. It’s the first time we’re able to quantify something many Oregonians have long suspected to be true: Oregon is a massive economic force and home to unparalleled talent in the athletic, outdoor, team and recreation industries.

Following HR&A’s presentation, a special panel of experts will dive deep into the report’s findings and offer their opinions on how Oregon can continue to be a global leader in the Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation economic ecosystem. Panelists include:

• Angela Wilhelms, President and CEO, Oregon Business & Industry
• Jim Etzel, CEO, Sport Oregon
• Monique Claiborne, President and CEO, Greater Portland, Inc.

The panel discussion will be moderated by Andrew Hoan, President & CEO of the Portland Business Alliance.

To register, click here AND use code 22AMMEDIA – this will waive all fees.

Media partners will have prime seats in the center section, so there will be a great view to the presentations and panel discussions. 

We hope to see you there!

June 27, 2022; Portland, OR: The Portland Business Alliance and Downtown Portland are proud to sponsor the Waterfront Blues Festival, downtown Portland's largest and longest-running music festival, celebrating its 35th anniversary! The COVID-19 pandemic paused this beloved Festival for the past two years. However, we are pleased see the Festival return to Tom McCall Waterfront Park during the Fourth of July weekend, July 1-4, 2022.  

The 2022 Festival format will have a total of four stages in addition to the return of Oregon's largest July 4th fireworks display, Blues Cruises!  

This year, the Festival is bringing 100+ world-class blues, soul, funk, and R&B artists into the heart of Downtown Portland with celebrated headliners that include: Grammy-award-winning Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band; soulful folk heroes The Wood Brothers; New Orleans legends Galactic, featuring Anjelika Jelly Joseph; international superstar Femi Kuti & The Positive Force; genre-busting funk band Lettuce; powerhouse soul duo The War and Treaty; and more.  

"Whether it's what you're seeing on-stage with legendary performers who've defined the genre alongside up-and-comers who continue to push it forward, or in the crowd with fans who came to the festival when they were kids who are now bringing their children- the entire weekend is a true celebration of the genre and everything it influences."- Peter Dammann, Artistic Director, Waterfront Blues Festival.  

We look forward to seeing you at the Waterfront this coming Fourth of July weekend! 

About Waterfront Blues Festival: Waterfront Blues Festival is downtown Portland’s largest and longest-running music festival and one of the most renowned celebrations of the blues in the world. 2022 marks the 35th anniversary of the festival and a jubilant return to downtown Portland’s Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Since 1988, Waterfront Blues Festival has welcomed over 2,000 acts, garnered international acclaim, and raised over $10 million dollars to support local community organizations. The festival continues to build upon a longstanding legacy and fanbase while also welcoming new artists and audiences by bringing the most exciting and dynamic blues, soul, funk and R&B artists to the stage for a can’t-miss Fourth of July Weekend. Learn more at http://www.waterfrontbluesfest.com/ and @waterfrontblues.  

About Portland Business Alliance and the Downtown Portland marketing initiative: The Portland Business Alliance – Greater Portland's Chamber of Commerce – was founded in 1870 and represents the largest, most diverse business network in the region. The Alliance brings together more than 2,100 members represented by dynamic and varied employers from around the Portland region and offers a strong source of support, information, advocacy, engagement, and professional development opportunities. Grounded in its mission to create opportunity and advance well-being for all who live and work in the greater Portland and SW Washington regions, the Alliance envisions a healthy and resilient business ecosystem where we work together to increase collaboration in governance; engage community; increase civic leadership; and, advocate for a vibrant, livable region for all.

The Downtown Portland marketing initiative is a program of the Portland Business Alliance that exists to promote Downtown Portland. Visit DowntownPortland.org for more information.

On 06-26-2022 at around 1630 hours members of the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, North Country EMS, and Clark County Fire responded to a vehicle versus multiple pedestrian collision in the 27500 Block of NE Lucia Falls Rd, near Moulton Falls Regional Park. Preliminary scene evidence and witness statements suggest a white 1997 Chevrolet Blazer was travelling eastbound on NE Lucia Falls Rd when it left the southern roadway edge and impacted 3 pedestrians who were walking together, eastbound on the shoulder of NE Lucia Falls RD. 2 of the 3 pedestrians suffered critical injuries and were transported to area hospitals for treatment. Impairment was not suspected to be a factor in the collision. The Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit responded to the scene and will continue the investigation. 

The Clark County Sheriff's Office would like to thank all the citizens who stopped and provided medical aid while waiting for emergency responders to arrive.  

Names of the involved are not being released at this time.  

Case #22-6377

GRANTS PASS, OR (Jun 25, 2022) – Civil Air Patrol (CAP) members from Grants Pass Composite Squadron renewed the tradition of an annual Car Show known as Wings & Wheels at Josephine County’s Airport Days this past Saturday, June 25. Participants entered their vehicles in hopes of winning a 1st place or 2nd place trophy in their respective classes.

Over 95 vehicles registered for the event. Instead of just waiting around, they were “wowed” by static displays and low flying aircraft. Music was provided by the DD214’s Veteran’s group and there were food vendors providing ample snacks and refreshments. 

CAP cadets assisted Josephine County Airport with parking and directing airshow and car show participants, but their favorite part of the event was handing out the trophies. 

Established in 1941, Civil Air Patrol is the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force and as such is a member of its Total Force. In its auxiliary role, CAP operates a fleet of 560 single-engine Cessna aircraft and more than 2,000 small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) and performs about 90% of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center. Often using innovative cellphone forensics and radar analysis software, CAP was credited by the AFRCC with saving 130 lives in fiscal 2020. CAP’s 54,000 members also perform homeland security, disaster relief and drug interdiction missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. As a nonprofit organization, CAP plays a leading role in aerospace education using national academic standards-based STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education. Members also serve as mentors to over 20,000 young people participating in CAP’s Cadet Programs. One of the premier public service organizations in America, CAP benefits the nation with an estimated economic impact of $209 million 

On Saturday, June 25, 2022 at about 8:57 p.m., a Polk County citizen called 911 to report hearing multiple gun shots around the area of Highland Road and Stapleton Road, outside city limits of Independence, in Polk County.  The witness heard vehicles speeding away from the area.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office responded to investigate the incident.  Many cartridge casings were located at the scene.  One of the involved parties called to report their involvement. No injuries were reported.  Two vehicles have been seized and will be processed for evidence.

This investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made at this time.  The Sheriff’s Office has information of a possible third involved vehicle, which is still outstanding and of interest to this investigation. The vehicle is described as a gray colored Camaro with a black spoiler.

Due to this being an ongoing investigation, no names will be released.  The Sheriff’s Office will submit and updated press release once this investigation comes to a close.

Please forward all tips to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, (503) 623-9251.  The tip will ultimately be forwarded to Det. David Shorter.

This Monday, June 27th, 2022 at 10:00 am, Portland Fire & Rescue will hold its 111th annual David Campbell Memorial, honoring Fallen Firefighters at Portland Firefighters Park. The David Campbell Memorial Association was established in 1913 to commemorate the memory of Portland’s Fire Chief David Campbell who died in the “Union Oil fire” on June 26, 1911. The Campbell Memorial has added the names of all Portland Firefighters who have subsequently died in the line of duty while protecting life and property in the city of Portland.

Portland Fire & Rescue Pipes & Drums will begin the ceremony, which will be followed by the posting of the colors and National Anthem by our Honor Guard. The wreath will be laid on the memorial then Firefighter of the Year, Audrey Tollefson, will toll the bell while the names of 75 Portland fallen firefighters are read, including Lieutenant Jerry Richardson who died last November. We will have a brief statement from Chief Jackson, a close family friend, as well as a statement from a City of Portland representative. The Kingsley Award will be presented to FF Bob Stere to wrap up the memorial.  

Please join us in honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

DATE: Monday, June 27, 2022.

LOCATION: Portland Firefighters Park (between SW 18th Ave and 19th Ave, south of Alder St.)

TIME: Platoon Reports 0930 Hours, Service starts 1000 Hours.

UNIFORM: Service Dress Uniform with Cap for all Portland Fire & Rescue personnel.

PLATOON: Portland Firefighters Pipes and Drums, PF&R Honor Guard, Engine 17, Engine 3, Truck 3, C4, C103.

From 4:30 to 6:30pm today in Portland and across the West Coast, abortion rights supporters will be dropping banners off of Interstate 5 overpasses to say it loud: Politicians need to keep their bans off our bodies! 

The action comes on the day after a dangerous and shocking Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and nearly 50 years of precedent, eliminating the federal constitutional right to abortion and stripping people of the right to control their own bodies. 

The #BansOffOurBodiesWestCoast action will demonstrate support for reproductive freedom from Canada to Mexico. The Portland banner drop will take place at North Missouri Avenue and North Ainsworth Street.

Vancouver, Wash. –On June 25, 2022, at approximately 12:28 a.m., 9-1-1 received multiple calls regarding gunshots coming from a residence (4 plex) in the 2900 block of E 16^th Street. As officers were enroute, callers reported smoke and flames coming from one of the units. Officers arrived and evacuated the neighboring units and assisted with road closure and scene protection as the Vancouver Fire Department extinguished the fire. This was a 2-alarm fire which involved 25 firefighters including an engine from Clark County Fire District 6. It took approximately 30 minutes to control the fire. Upon entering, emergency personnel located two deceased males inside the unit where the fire occurred. There were no additional reported injuries as a result of the fire. All residents of the 4 plex were displaced and are being assisted by Red Cross. 

Investigators from the Vancouver Police Department Major Crimes Team and Vancouver Police Arson Team are continuing the investigation. Investigators from the Washington State Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are assisting to process the scene. 

Nothing further is releasable at this time. 

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At approximately 1230 AM late Friday night the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at the 2900 block of E 16th street in the Harney Heights neighborhood. The first fire engine arrived within 2 ½ minutes to a 4-plex and found heavy fire coming from the front and back of a 2nd story apartment. A second alarm was requested which sent a total of 25 firefighters to the blaze including an engine company from Clark County Fire Dist 6. 

Firefighters on the second floor reported heavy attic involvement and requested additional hose lines and manpower to assist in extinguishing the fire. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. 4 families are displaced and red cross has been contacted to assist them. The Vancouver Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause of the fire as firefighters continue to operate on scene. 

At approximately 1230 AM late Friday night the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at the 2900 block of E 16th street in the Harney Heights neighborhood. The first fire engine arrived within 2 ½ minutes to a 4-plex and found heavy fire coming from the front and back of a 2nd story apartment. A second alarm was requested which sent a total of 25 firefighters to the blaze including an engine company from Clark County Fire Dist 6. 

Firefighters on the second floor reported heavy attic involvement and requested additional hose lines and manpower to assist in extinguishing the fire. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. 4 families are displaced and red cross has been contacted to assist them. The Vancouver Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause of the fire as firefighters continue to operate on scene.