As fire suppression tactics have increased containment and lowered the risk to structures, the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s resources will be released around noon today.  The Oregon Department of Forestry team will remain with local resources to continue mopping up and monitoring any remaining hot spots. 

Resources on the fire today are: 7 Hand crews, 6 Helicopters, 33 Engines, 1 Dozer, 8 Water tenders and 395 personnel.  The estimated containment is 60% and 2,143 acres.  

Today’s warmer temperatures and lower relative humidity may cause the fire to show more activity.  Fire fighters are seeing juniper trees torch in the interior of fire.  Air attack resources are available today to drop water on those trees if needed.

Lake Chinook Chief Don Colfels said, “Given the intensity of the fire and the strong winds driving it east, the fire had potential to leave dozens of families without a home today. Thanks to the work of our local crews, the support of other Central Oregon Agencies and state support from ODF and OSFM we were able to bring this fire to the more manageable state it is today. Additionally, because this community has worked hard to create defensible spaces many homes have been completely burned around and left intact”.

A public meeting is planned for Sunday, June 24 at 6:00 p.m. at the Chinook Store, 8241 SW Jordan Road in Culver. Residents are invited to hear from local officials to learn more about the fire and what they can do to protect their homes and lands in the future. 

Public information contact is Ashley Lertora; 503-338-8442.

On Friday, June 22, 2018 at about 7:45am, an Oregon State Police Trooper and emergency personnel responded to a report of a traffic crash on US Highway 101 near milepost 76.5, north of Beaver.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a silver 2003 Saab, operated by Mikayla Michelle HOWARD, age 18, of Beaver, was traveling northbound when the vehicle crossed into the southbound lane of travel for an unknown reason.  The vehicle struck a southbound red 2018 Kenworth log truck with a bunked trailer head on.  The Kenworth Tractor was driven by Howard Edwin RHOADES, are 64, from Toledo.

HOWARD was transported by ambulance to Tillamook Regional Medical Center with critical injuries.  She was later transported by Life Flight helicopter to Oregon Health Sciences University for further treatment.  HOWARD died from injuries sustained during the crash. 

RHOADES was not injured as a result of the crash. 

US Highway 101 was closed for approximately two hours following the crash.   OSP was assisted by Nestucca Fire and Rescue,  Tillamook County Sheriff's Office, Tillamook Regional Medical Center Ambulance, Life Flight, and ODOT.

Vancouver, WA - On June 24, 2018, at approximately 2:00 am, Vancouver Police responded to the report of a shooting in the area of Broadway and 7th Street in Downtown Vancouver.  A female bystander was located at the scene with a non-life threatening gunshot wound, and was treated at an area hospital.  Detectives from the Vancovuer Police Major Crime Unit and the Safe Streets Task Force are investigating, and they do not believe there is any threat to the general public.

Nothing further is available at this time, and the investigation is continuing. 

Firefighters continue to make progress in extinguishing hot spots around the perimeter of the fire. Today they focused their attention on the first fifty feet; tomorrow they will work in another fifty feet. Higher temperatures and lower humidities are forecasted in the coming days and could make the fire more active.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s office lowered the evacuation level from Level 3 (GO) to Level 2 (READY) status for the Three Rivers Subdivision effective today at 6 p.m. Residents will be allowed to come and go, but should remain aware that fire conditions can rapidly change.   

A public meeting is planned for Sunday, June 24 at 6 p.m. at the Chinook Village Store.  Local residents are invited to hear from local officials to learn more about what they can do to protect their homes and lands. 

Today at 2:20 p.m., deputies were called to the 20000 block of Fern Ridge Road SE near Lyons after a man was found dead in a pond near his residence.  Detectives have been called to the scene to investigate as the circumstances surrounding the man’s death are suspicious. 

It is very early in this investigation and no additional information will be made available until an autopsy can be performed, that time frame is not yet known.   The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who may have been in the area and saw anything suspicious to please call our tip line at 503 540 8079.   

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Forestry’s North Cascade District will enter fire season on Monday, June 25. This declaration covers ODF-protected lands in Multnomah, Clackamas, Marion and northern Linn counties.

Restrictions include no open fires except at designated locations, no fireworks, and no use of exploding targets and tracer ammunition. Backyard debris burning is not allowed without a permit.

To find out what restrictions are in place at any given location, go online to ODF’s statewide fire restrictions and closures page at www.oregon.gov/ODF/Fire/Pages/Restrictions.aspx. For specific questions about restrictions within the North Cascade district, call the ODF North Cascade Office at 503-859-2151.

Prineville, Ore. - The Oregon Department of Forestry Type 1 Team and Oregon State Fire Marshal Green Team took unified command of the fire on Friday at 6 p.m. Fire crews have made good progress battling the Graham Fire. The fire is estimated at approximately 2,055 acres and is burning in brush, timber and grass south of the Metolius River arm of Lake Billy Chinook near Culver, Oregon. Fire crews completed a burnout operation yesterday and will began mop up operations on Saturday. Today’s firefighting resources include: 7 hand crews, 26 Engines, 2 dozers, 4 water tenders, approximately 375 personnel and containment is estimated at 50%. Aircraft resources assigned to this fire are available to all fires in the area as needed. 

Crews have set up fire camp at the Sisters Rodeo Grounds. Please use caution on Highway 20 near the rodeo grounds due to the additional fire traffic in the area.

The fire burned two residential structures and five out buildings, but many more were saved by local firefighting resources. Further information regarding structure losses is not available at this time. 

Due to ongoing fire danger Level 3 evacuations remain in effect for the Three Rivers subdivision. A staffed road block has been established near the Chinook Village Store restricting access to all except emergency personnel and credentialed media. For further information regarding evacuations, please refer to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Facebook site or call Jefferson County Sheriff at 541-475-6520.

Interested media are to report to the Lake Chinook Fire Station at 11700 Graham Rd where a Public Information Officer will be available from 10:30 a.m. — 7 p.m.

There are three structure task forces from Clackamas, Marion, Washington, Lane and Multnomah counties that have been mobilized under the Conflagration Act, and will provide 24-hour structure protection threatened by the fire. The fire is burning on private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry and Lake Chinook Fire and Rescue, as well as Bureau of Land Management ownership. The cause of the fire is attributed to the lightning storm that passed through the area last Wednesday.

Updated information for the Graham Fire is available on InciWeb https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5855/

The Oregon Department of Forestry Type 1 Team and Oregon State Fire Marshall Green Team took unified command of the fire on Friday at 6 pm. Fire crews have made good progress battling the Graham Fire. The fire is estimated at approximately 2,055 acres and is burning in brush, timber and grass south of the Metolius River arm of Lake Billy Chinook near Culver, Oregon. Fire crews completed a burnout operation yesterday and will began mop up operations on Saturday. Today’s firefighting resources include: 7 hand crews, 26 Engines, 2 dozers, 4 water tenders, approximately 375 personnel and containment is estimated at 50%. Aircraft resources assigned to this fire are available to all fires in the area as needed.

Crews have set up fire camp at the Sisters Rodeo Grounds. Please use caution on Highway 20 near the rodeo grounds due to the additional fire traffic in the area.

The fire burned two residential structures and five out buildings, but many more were saved by local firefighting resources.

Further information regarding structure losses is not available at this time.

Due to ongoing fire danger Level 3 evacuations remain in effect for the Three Rivers subdivision. A staffed road block has been established near the Chinook Village Store restricting access to all except emergency personnel and credentialed media. For further information regarding evacuations, please refer to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Facebook site or call Jefferson County Sheriff at 541-475-6520.

Interested media are to report to the Lake Chinook Fire Station at 11700 Graham Rd where a Public Information Officer will be available10:30am—7:00pm.

There are three structure task forces from Clackamas, Marion, Washington, Lane and Multnomah counties and have been mobilized under the Conflagration Act and will provide 24-hour structure protection threatened by the fire. The fire is burning on private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry and Lake Chinook Fire and Rescue, as well as Bureau of Land Management ownership. The cause of the fire is attributed to the lightning storm that passed through the area last Wednesday.

Updated information for the Graham Fire is available on InciWeb https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5855/
###

Canby Area Transit (CAT) is preparing its project list for the new transit funding created by Oregon House Bill 2017. The bill established a public transportation payroll tax that will collect a 1/10 of 1% tax on employee wages. The new funding source is referred to as the Statewide Transit Improvement Fund (STIF).

In order to qualify for STIF funding projects must be described in a local plan. In late 2017, CAT approved an updated Transit Master Plan. This plan lists three phases of projects. Phase 1 is already underway. Expanded hours of service on the Route 99X were implemented in April of 2018.

The projects listed in the plan are as follows:

Phase 2: add Saturday Trips to the Route 99X or add a local circulator route within Canby.

Phase 3: add more weekend service on the Route 99X or add weekend service within Canby.

New Saturday service will require CAT to hire more drivers and dispatchers. A new local circulator route will require CAT to hire more drivers and purchase new buses. It will take longer to implement a local circulator route than it will to implement Saturday service. Historically, support for Saturday or weekend service has been somewhat stronger than support for a local circulator route.

The City of Canby is seeking community input as to the priorities of these projects. Which should CAT implement first? We have prepared a short survey and will hold public meetings on June 28th and July 19th. We encourage everyone to attend and participate. English to Spanish interpretation will be provided at the meeting on July 19th. This meeting will be held in the Canby City Council Chambers at 222 NE 2nd Avenue in Canby at 6:00pm.

The survey will be available online at www.canbyareatransit.org and in paper format on the buses and at the CAT office. If you would like to help distribute the survey and/or the meeting notice please contact us at 503.266.4022.

Links to the electronic survey:

English: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CATPhase2  

Spanish: https://es.surveymonkey.com/r/CATfase2

Salem, Ore. – Water samples taken on Thursday, June 21 show cyanotoxins in the drinking water distribution system are below EPA Health Advisory guidelines. Results from the most recent data will be available on the City’s website at www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

We are still learning about how changing conditions at Detroit Reservoir may impact the cyanotoxin levels in our drinking water. As we learn more, we are refining our approaches to ensuring safe water and detecting toxins earlier.

Earlier this week we were reminded of the impact of ever-changing conditions within our current water source when we saw one day of test results above EPA guidelines for vulnerable populations after 11 days of clean sampling, and then on the next day levels dropped significantly below advisory guidelines.

The City of Salem extended the drinking water advisory on June 10 for at least two weeks to address concerns about the two-day lag between sampling and receiving test results. By keeping the drinking water advisory in place, the City hopes to reduce confusion by giving residents and water customers the opportunity to review the data and take the precautions they feel necessary for their families and their customers.

Drinking water filling stations are available while the advisory remains in effect. Residents need to bring their own clean and sanitary containers. Please visit www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx for the most current times and locations.
Residents with questions regarding City water, or in need of assistance, can contact Salem Public Works at 503-588-6311. For health information during the advisory, please call 2-1-1 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Licensed facilities, including restaurants and public pools, with questions can contact Marion County Environmental Health at 503-588-5346 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The water advisory has impacted many people in Salem and surrounding areas. The City of Salem continues to be thankful for the continued patience and support of the community, partnering agencies, and local volunteer groups.  

Additional information will continue to be distributed through the City’s social media accounts and website www.cityofsalem.net.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Actualización del aviso de agua de la Ciudad de Salem 23 de junio, 2018

Salem, Ore. — Los resultados de la muestra de agua tomadas jueves, 21 de junio índico que los niveles de cyanotoxins (toxinas) de la agua para beber esta debajo de la directiva del EPA. La Ciudad continúa proporcionando los resultados del agua en la página web de la Ciudad cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

Todavía estamos aprendiendo sobre como las condiciones que cambian en Detroit Reservoir pueden impactar los niveles de los cyanotoxins en nuestra agua de beber. Mientras aprendemos más, estamos refinando nuestros aproches para asegurar la salud del agua y detectar toxinas más temprano.

A principios de esta semana, fuimos recordados sobre el impacto del cambio continuo de las condiciones dentro nuestra fuente de agua cuando vimos un día de resultados arriba de la directiva del EPA para poblaciones vulnerables después de 11 días de agua limpia y el día siguiente los niveles bajaron significantemente abajo de la directiva del aviso.

El 10 de junio la Ciudad de Salem extendió el aviso de agua por lo menos de dos semanas más para afrontar las preocupaciones sobre los dos días cuando las muestras son tomadas y los resultados recibidos.  En manteniendo el aviso de agua en su lugar, La Ciudad espera reducir confusión en dar a los residentes y los clientes de agua la oportunidad en revisar los datos y tomar las precauciones que ellos sienten es necesario para sus familias y clientes.

Estaciones de agua están disponibles mientras que el aviso de agua continúa, por favor vengan preparados con sus propios contenedores sanitarios.  Por favor visite nuestra página web (cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx) para los horarios y ubicaciones más actuales.

Los residentes que necesiten asistencia o tienen preguntas pueden ponerse en contacto con la Ciudad de Salem Public Works al 503-588-6311. Para obtener información médica durante el aviso, llama al 211 de 8 a.m. a 6 p.m. Los comercios de licencia, incluyendo restaurantes y piscinas públicas pueden ponerse en contacto con Marion County Environmental Health (Salud Ambiental del Condado de Marion) al 503-588-5346 lunes a viernes, 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.

El aviso del agua ha impactado a muchas personas en Salem y en las áreas cercanas. La Ciudad de Salem continúa ser agradecido por su paciencia y el apoyo de la comunidad, las agencias asociadas, y grupos de voluntarios locales.

Información adicional continuará siendo disponible en nuestras en nuestras redes sociales y página web (www.cityofsalem.net).

The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office is seeking assistance from the public to help identify a suspect who attempted to kidnap a 10 year old girl from the Welches area in rural Clackamas County.

On Friday June 22 at about 4:30 pm the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of E. Fairway Ave. near E. Welches Rd. to a report that a male subject that tried to grab a girl as she rode her bike. The girl was able to fend off the man by kicking and punching him before he released her.  The man then ran from the scene to his vehicle that he had parked on E. Welches Rd. and sped off southbound from the location.

The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office did an extensive search of the area to attempt to locate the suspect or the vehicle but was unable to find either one.

SUSPECT VEHICLE

The suspect vehicle is described as an older dark colored SUV or pickup with a matching canopy that had an abundant of stickers placed all over the rear window to include a large white “REVENGE” decal placed midway down from the top.

SUSPECT DESCRIPTION

The suspect is described as a young Hispanic or Native American male adult about 6 feet tall, slender build with very dark hair with a long braided ponytail. He was last seen wearing a long sleeved shirt and a beanie type stocking cap as displayed in the forensic sketch of the suspect.

The sheriff’s office is asking anyone with any information about this case to please call the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency phone number 503-655-8211, our tip line at 503-723-4949 or you can leave an online tip here: https://web3.clackamas.us/contact/tip.jsp 

Please reference CCSO Case #2018-17799.

Disaster responders with the American Red Cross Cascades Region responded at approximately 5:30 p.m. Friday, June 22, 2018 in the 700 block of Grade Street in Kelso, Cowlitz County, Wash.

The single-family fire affected one adult.

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits with toiletry items, information about recovery services, and health and mental health services.

Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department.

The Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families affected by disasters, like home fires, every day.

The Red Cross advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online form at www.redcross.org/GetAnAlarm to schedule an appointment.

It’s fun, it’s free and it’s this Sunday! Sunday! Sunday! The 2018 Milk Carton Boat Race returns to the Westmoreland Park Casting Pond this Sunday, June 24, at 11 a.m.

A Rose Festival tradition dating back to 1973, this event features large, hand-made, human-powered boats that float on recycled milk cartons and jugs. There are boats built for speed and showboats that are just on the water for style points. With boats of all shapes, sizes and styles, some struggle to stay afloat with just one rider, while one boat easily held eight Girl Scouts.

The Milk Carton Boat Race is produced by the Royal Rosarians and presented by the Oregon Dairy and Nutrition Council. Darigold will be providing free chocolate milk to attendees. Special thanks to the Sea Scouts of Cascade Pacific Council for helping with safety in and around the pond.

Media may be able to ride one of the large boats with the Dairy Princess Ambassadors on request.

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced Michael Williams, 34, pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated murder in connection with the death of Jacob Pedro Shroyer. The defendant also pleaded guilty to one count of robbery in the third degree in connection with an unrelated victim. 

Sentencing for the defendant will be held July 12, 2018 at 11 a.m. before Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Eric J. Bergstrom. 

According to court documents previously filed in this case, on May 8, 2017, emergency dispatchers with the Portland Bureau of Emergency Communications received a 9-1-1 call from Mr. Shroyer who was at the Pacific Towers Apartment in Northwest Portland. Mr. Shroyer reported he had been stabbed. The Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office determined Shroyer died as a result of multiple stab wounds.

During this investigation, detectives assigned to the Portland Police Bureau Homicide Detail identified Williams as the individual responsible for Mr. Shroyer’s death. He was arrested and booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on May 9, 2017 and charged with aggravated murder. A grand jury subsequently indicted the defendant on numerous other charges in connection with crimes he committed between May 1 and May 8, 2017. 

No additional comments will be made as the defendant has not been formally sentenced. Members of the media and public can access the probable cause affidavit filed in this case using the Oregon eCourt Case Information (OECI) system. This matter is documented under case number 17CR30820.

This case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy District Attorney Don Rees and Deputy District Attorney Melissa Marrero.
 

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Phone: 503.988.6567

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

Battle Ground, WA - Battle Ground Councilmember Cherish DesRochers was recently awarded a Certificate of Municipal Leadership from the Association of Washington Cities (AWC).  Mayor Mike Dalesandro presented her with the award at the June 18 City Council meeting.

AWC's Certificate of Municipal Leadership program recognizes elected city officials for accomplishing training in four core areas of local governance: roles, responsibilities and legal requirements, public sector resource management, community planning and development, and effective local leadership.

"Cities around the state are continually transforming in light of changing laws and the need to meet new challenges and opportunities, said AWC CEO Peter King.

"The leadership program helps Mayors and councilmembers sharpen the tools they need today to understand the legal landscape, plan for the future, manage their resources, and foster strong relationships. The elected officials who earn this certificate demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and a desire to bring new ideas to their community."

To earn this distinction, Councilmember DesRochers completed more than 30 hours of training credits.

Ms. DesRochers has served the City of Battle Ground since May of 2015 when she was appointed to the city's Planning Commission.  In July of 2016, City Council appointed her to fill then-vacated City Council Position No. 6, and in November of 2017 she was elected by voters to serve the full 4-year term from 2018 through 2021.   

The Marion County Sheriff's Office is releasing a pair of composite sketches created of two men wanted in connection to a home invasion robbery in the 15000 block of Coon Hollow Road SE near Sublimity.  If you believe you may know the identity of either man pictured please call our tip line at 503 540 8079.  The Sheriff’s would like to thank the Composite Sketch Technicians at the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office for assisting in our investigation.   

Today at 1249 p.m., the Marion County Sheriff's Office was called to investigate a home invasion robbery in the 15000 block of Coon Hollow Road SE near Sublimity. 

Investigators believe two men entered the home, tied up the residents and robbed them of their valuables. No iniuries were reported during the ordeal.

Deputies are searching for two white male adults. Both men wore shorts and tennis shoes.  The first male wore a black long sleeve tee shirt, tennis shoes and a baseball hat. The second male wore a white tee shirt with a basketball jersey over the shirt, a hat and sunglasses. 

Both men left in a late 80's or early 90's Honda Accord or Civic.  Deptuies are asking anyone with information to please call our tip line at 503 540 8079. As this is an active investigation no additional details are available at this time. 

The Hillsboro Police Department has recently investigated scams that involve changing an employee’s Direct Deposit information, resulting in the employee’s paychecks being re-directed to the scammers’ bank accounts. We want you to be aware of these scams, and what you should do to protect yourself.

These scams usually occur as a result of:

A “phishing” email that sends the recipient to a website to “update” their Direct Deposit information, or

A compromised account, where the scammer obtains the employee’s ID and password, signs on and changes the Direct Deposit instructions.

The newest trend is for the scammer to obtain basic employee information.  The scammer then designs a personal check with your, name, address and uses the scammer’s bank account information in bottom of check.  The scammer sends this check and the request to change the direct deposit to the new account to your employer’s Payroll/HR Department. 

This can then result in funds going to the scammer’s bank account instead of the employee’s bank account.

Do not fall victim:

Check with your Payroll/HR department to ensure they have a process in place for detecting Direct Deposit changes; when changes are made to an employee’s Direct Deposit, does your Payroll/HR department send a confirmation email to the employee’s work email?

Keep your eyes open for any email requesting that you “confirm” your sign-on credentials or threatening immediate account closure.

Payroll/ HR personnel will never send you an email asking for your password.

If you do respond to a phishing attack, change your password immediately and check your Direct Deposit information.

NOTICE OF Special MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

1-888-824-5783 Ext.90095991# and via Blackboard Collaborate at

 http://tinyurl.com/BoardORVA

June 22, 2018

Recreational use health advisory for Dorena Reservoir lifted June 22 
Reduced cyanobacteria, cyanotoxin levels confirmed

The Oregon Health Authority has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued June 13 for Dorena Reservoir, located six miles east of Cottage Grove in Lane County, due to the presence of a cyanobacteria (harmful algae) bloom.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins (harmful algae toxins) in the reservoir are below recreational guideline values for human exposure. However, OHA officials advise recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of a cyanobacteria (harmful algae) blooms in all Oregon waters, because blooms can develop and disappear throughout the season. Only a fraction of the many lakes and waterways in Oregon are monitored for cyanobacteria by state, federal and local agencies, therefore, you are your own best advocate when it comes to keeping you and your family safe while recreating.

People and especially small children and pets should avoid recreating in areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red in color, if a thick mat of blue-green algae is visible in the water, or bright green cells are suspended in the water column. If you observe these signs in the water you are encouraged to avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities.

For health information or to report an illness, contact the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) at 971-673-0440.

For information about recreational advisories issued or lifted for the season, contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://healthoregon.org/hab and select “Algae Bloom Advisories.” 

Mt. Hood Community College was recently named a Military Friendly institution for the 2018-19 school year by the Military Friendly School Survey. The survey is one of the longest-running assessments of colleges’ and universities’ investments in serving student veterans and active-duty military students.

MHCC is one of 11 higher education institutions in Oregon to earn the Military Friendly designation, and one of three community colleges statewide to make the 2018-19 list. Top marks were given to MHCC for its waiving of the admission application fee for military students and veterans, for awarding college credit for military training and experience, and for offering mentoring and on-boarding support to new military students and veterans. You can see the college’s rating online.

“We’re proud to have re-earned this designation,” said Joshua Ray, coordinator of MHCC’s Veteran Services office. “We’ve held it for several years and it really shows our commitment to helping students and their families who come from military backgrounds.”

MHCC offers the only Veterans cohort in the Pacific Northwest. Earlier this year, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) awarded a two-year grant to the college to update the MHCC Veterans Resource Center (VRC) with new furniture and computers, launch a new cohort-specific class titled “HD208: Career and Life Planning for Veterans,” and hire a part-time Outreach Specialist for the Veterans Services office.

The funds for the $60,720 ODVA grant come from Oregon Senate Bill 143, which established a $1 million grant program in 2017 to augment existing veterans-oriented campus programs at Oregon community colleges and public universities. The goal of the grant program is to support veterans during three important life stages and transitions:

• From military service to college life
• During college and the completion of a certificate or degree program
• From college to the workforce and community

Interested in learning more about the Veteran Services program at MHCC? Visit mhcc.edu/VeteranServices

Salem, OR – Law enforcement. Roads and bridges. Help for the needy.

Those were budget priorities for Marion County in the 1800s, and they remain so today.

County commissioners on Wednesday, June 27, are slated to approve a 2018-19 budget that increases sheriff’s patrols, improves roads and bridges, and reduces homelessness.

In presenting the budget, Chief Administrative Officer John Lattimer showed the county’s 1863 budget document. Hand-written on one page, it included money for the county commissioners, sheriff, jail, prosecuting attorney, road supervisor, bridges and “support for paupers.”

“We’ve come a long way since then, but we still spend our money on similar things and similar concerns,” Lattimer told the county budget committee, which comprises the three county commissioners and three public members.

The 1863 budget of $12,480.10 was financed by taxes, grocery licenses, probate fees and other income. A photo from later in the 19th century shows 17 county officials.

Today, Marion County has a population over 341,000, including 20 cities, 37 unincorporated communities and many rural areas.

The county’s proposed new budget, which takes effect July 1, covers more than 600 pages, totals $445.4 million and includes 1,510 employees. It incorporates an increase of nearly $3 million for the Public Employees Retirement System and employee health care. Fringe benefits are 37 percent of personnel costs.

The county has a new courtroom to handle juvenile cases, a Public Safety Building for the sheriff’s office will open in September, and the county will break ground on a new Juvenile Department building.

Yet the county is able to keep its property tax rate stable. More money is coming in from the state’s increased gas tax, federal monies to compensate for reduced timber harvests, and other sources. Only $71.3 million of the budget will come from current property taxes.

“Our economy is moving ahead and so are our resources,” Lattimer said.

The county strives to be both cost-efficient and creative. For example, Public Works trains new employees by repaving sections of the Oregon State Fairgrounds. In return, the Marion County Fair gets free use of the grounds.

Times and demands for services have certainly changed since the 19th century. The county no longer runs the public schools. And a significant part of next year’s budget is devoted to upgrading the county’s computer structure, which – by technological standards – is antiquated.

Still, 78 percent of the Marion County general fund goes to public safety.

“We still spend most of our dollars on law enforcement,” Lattimer said. “County officials prioritized public safety in the 1800s as we do now.”

Ten sheriff’s deputies will be added for patrolling unincorporated East Salem, financed by a fee on housing and property. That 5.5 square-mile urban area, which comprises the Hayesville and Four Corners neighborhoods, has a population as large as Keizer and generates a majority of the calls for Marion County Sheriff’s Office services.

Federal funding will allow the county to restore a deputy for forest patrols in the Santiam Canyon. Federal forests cover more than one-fourth of Marion County.

Along with increasing sheriff’s patrols, the county strives to prevent individuals from falling into crime. “The work we do in public safety is very much a team effort,” Sheriff Jason Myers said.

Marion County is known internationally for its innovative approaches to community policing and reducing recidivism. Transitional housing is a continuing project, because half the inmates released from incarceration have no place to call home. And the new Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion program (LEAD) brings together the sheriff’s office and social services to help low-level, repeat offenders get on a straight path and stay on it.

The Health and Human Services Department has the most employees in the county – about 455. Public Works has the largest budget, $115.1 million.

“We are caretakers of a $2.5 billion transportation system,” Public Works Director Alan Haley said.

The county maintains 1,118 miles of roads, 147 bridges and 28,000 signs. The department also is responsible for parks, land-use planning, waste and recycling, and other areas.

“We’re ramping up our efforts and we have some really good projects for this year,” County Engineer Cindy Schmitt said.

The same could be said throughout Marion County.

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to consider the FY 2018-19 budget as part of its regular board session on Wednesday, June 27, 2018. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. in the Senator Hearing Room at Courthouse Square located at 555 Court St. NE, Salem. The meeting agenda is attached. The full budget is available for review on the county website at www.co.marion.or.us/FIN/budget.  

What: The Oral Health Program at the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division is convening a series of rules advisory committee (RAC) meetings to discuss amendments to rules related to Dental Pilot Projects.

The purpose of the RAC is to provide feedback and input on the development of amended rule language, as well as review the statement of need and fiscal impact for the proposed rules.

Agenda: Review background information; brief overview of the rulemaking process; review draft amended rules; next steps.

When: June 25, 9 am-11am. A public comment period will be held at the end of the meeting.

Where: Portland State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Room 1A, Portland. Conference line: 1-888-273-3658, participants code: 76-64-09

Background: Senate Bill 738, passed by the Oregon State Legislature in 2011, allows the Oregon Health Authority to approve dental pilot projects once an application has been approved. These projects are intended to evaluate the quality of care, access, cost, workforce, and efficacy by teaching new skills to existing categories of dental personnel; developing new categories of dental personnel; accelerating the training of existing categories of dental personnel; or teaching new oral health care roles to previously untrained persons.

Materials: Copies of materials are available online at healthoregon.org/dpp

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

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High levels of cyanobacteria toxins found in Jefferson County water body

The Oregon Health Authority issued a recreational use health advisory today for areas of Lake Billy Chinook due to the presence of a cyanobacteria (harmful algae) bloom. The lake is located about 12 miles west of Madras, in Jefferson County.

Water monitoring has confirmed the presence of cyanobacteria and the toxins they produce in Perry South Cove on the Metolious Arm of Lake Billy Chinook. The cyanotoxin concentrations found can be harmful to humans and animals.

The advisory extends from the cove at Perry South Campground to the southern tip of Three Rivers Island located downstream in the Metolious Arm.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the lake where blooms are identified. Although toxins are not absorbed through the skin, people who have skin sensitivities may experience a puffy red rash at the affected area.

Drinking water directly from this area of the lake at this time is especially dangerous. OHA public health officials advise campers and other recreational visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters.

Anyone drawing in-home water directly from the affected area is advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective for removing cyanotoxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce cyanotoxins through proper filtration and disinfection. If people are connected to public water systems or are on wells in the area, that water is not affected by the bloom in the lake. If community members have questions about water available at nearby campgrounds, they should contact campground management.

Oregon health officials recommend that those who choose to eat fish from waters where cyanobacteria (harmful algae) blooms are present remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking, as toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water. Public health officials also advise people to not eat freshwater clams or mussels from Lake Billy Chinook and that Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations do not allow the harvest of these shellfish from freshwater sources. Crayfish muscle can be eaten, but internal organs and liquid fat should be discarded.

Exposure to cyanotoxins can produce a variety of symptoms including numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems, and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. People who bring their pets to this area of Lake Billy Chinook for recreation activities should take special precautions to keep them from drinking from or swimming in this area of the lake.

The advisory will be lifted when the concern no longer exists.

With proper precautions to avoid exposure to affected water, people are encouraged to visit this area of Lake Billy Chinook and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray, which could lead to inhalation risk.

For health information or to report an illness, contact the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) at 971-673-0440.

OHA maintains an updated list of all health advisories on its website. To learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body, visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab and select “algae bloom advisories,” or call the Oregon Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

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Date:               Monday, June 25, 2018

Time:               6:00 p.m. Regular Meeting

Location:         Hockinson High School Library

Address:          16819 NE 159th St.; Brush Prairie, WA 98606

Reduced cyanobacteria and cyanotoxin levels confirmed

The Oregon Health Authority has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued June 15 for Upper Klamath Lake—located off Oregon Route 140, 15 miles west of Klamath Falls in Klamath County—due to the presence of a cyanobacteria (harmful algae) bloom and the toxins they produced.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins (harmful algae toxins) in the lake are below recreational guideline values for human exposure. However, OHA officials advise recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of a cyanobacteria (harmful algae) blooms in all Oregon waters, because blooms can develop and disappear throughout the season. Only a fraction of the many lakes and waterways in Oregon are monitored for cyanobacteria by state, federal and local agencies, therefore, you are your own best advocate when it comes to keeping you and your family safe while recreating.

People and especially small children and pets should avoid recreating in areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red in color, if a thick mat of cyanobacteria (harmful algae) is visible in the water, or bright green cells are suspended in the water column. If you observe these signs in the water you are encouraged to avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities.

For health information or to report an illness, contact the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) at 971-673-0440.

For information about recreational advisories issued or lifted for the season, contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://healthoregon.org/hab and select “Algae Bloom Advisories.”

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Reduced cyanobacteria, cyanotoxin levels confirmed

The Oregon Health Authority has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued June 13 for Dorena Reservoir, located six miles east of Cottage Grove in Lane County, due to the presence of a cyanobacteria (harmful algae) bloom.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins (harmful algae toxins) in the reservoir are below recreational guideline values for human exposure. However, OHA officials advise recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of a cyanobacteria (harmful algae) blooms in all Oregon waters, because blooms can develop and disappear throughout the season. Only a fraction of the many lakes and waterways in Oregon are monitored for cyanobacteria by state, federal and local agencies, therefore, you are your own best advocate when it comes to keeping you and your family safe while recreating.

People and especially small children and pets should avoid recreating in areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red in color, if a thick mat of blue-green algae is visible in the water, or bright green cells are suspended in the water column. If you observe these signs in the water you are encouraged to avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities.

For health information or to report an illness, contact the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) at 971-673-0440.

For information about recreational advisories issued or lifted for the season, contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://healthoregon.org/hab and select “Algae Bloom Advisories.”

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On June 21st 2018, day shift deputies were dispatched to the area of Sunset Beach for a report of an individual attempting to take his own life in the Pacific Ocean. 

Sr Deputy Townsend, Detective Walker, Deputy Shepherd, Deputy Libertad and Sergeant Hoover responded quickly to the scene.

Deputy Shepherd tried unsuccessfully to make contact with the subject and began contacting other resources, including the Coast Guard.  

Initially Sr Deputy Townsend offered to swim after the subject however another plan was eventually formulated for maximum safety of all involved.

Detective Walker and Deputy Libertad eventually made voice contact with the subject and created enough of a rapport to nearly talk the subject out of the water.  Even though they were ultimately unsuccessful in getting the subject to come out of the water, they were successful in removing the bag full of weights the subject had around his body.

The despondent subject resisted turned and walked back into the surf, in an apparent attempt to drown himself.  A short time later, the Coast Guard helicopter, requested by Deputy Shepherd, arrived on scene to assist.

The Coast Guard pilots showed incredible skill by hovering the helo and using the helicopter rotor wash to dissuade the subject from going further into the ocean. The aircrew then dropped a rescue swimmer, who also kept the subject from walking further out.

Detective Walker walked out into the surf, putting himself at risk, to assist the rescue swimmer in talking the man into walking back to safety.

When the subject realized Deputies were not going to let him complete his act of suicide, he surrendered to Detective Walker.  Once the man was on the beach, Deputy Libertad did an excellent job of continued de-escalation and eventually the subject volunteered to go to the hospital for a mental evaluation.  The incident was brought to a safe conclusion without any force being used.

The amount of dedication, courage and compassion these Deputies showed goes above and beyond and as Sheriff I am extremely proud of their selfless courage and commitment to the safety of others no matter who they are or what issues they may have.

Sheriff Tom

On 06/21/2018, Merlinda M Avalos (11-16-68), a Hillsboro resident, was arrested on 12 counts of Criminal Mistreatment in the first degree and 1 count of tampering with evidence.

The victims in this case are all minors and had lived with Avalos.  Avalos is related to the victims and has acted as their guardian since 2012.

The alleged mistreatment include: The victims were subject to being contained in their room - all victims shared one room; They were not allowed to use the bathroom during the night – the victims needed to use a urine jug;  Allowed to eat only twice a day – a peanut butter sandwich for breakfast and one for dinner;  The victims could only shower one day a week and forced to wear urine soaked clothing to school. If the victims made any noise or got off their beds, they would be beaten with any instrument/object that was available to Avalos. They were not allowed to watch TV, read books or go out and play.

This case is still under investigation. It has been reported that Avalos is also an elderly adult caregiver. If there are any other victims or witnesses to this case or other incidents involving Merlinda Avalos, please contact the Hillsboro Police Department: 503-681-6175.

Every year Albany Police Department and Albany Fire Department respond to upwards of 80-100 reports of illegal fireworks and firework related concerns. These calls are important due to the inherent danger of all fireworks, but they also pull critical resources away from all other 911 calls for service in Albany. 

Fireworks can cause serious bodily injury and pose a significant risk to property. 

What can you do to stay safe and enjoy your holiday? 

1. DO NOT BUY ILLEGAL FIREWORKS. 

2. If your neighbor, family, or friend has purchased illegal fireworks request they DO 
NOT use them. 

3. Have a water hose ready for use and on. 

4. Light all fireworks on a concrete or gravel surface with a 10' clearance away from 
all vegetation and structures. 

5. Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show. 

6. Use a water bucket for all used fireworks and only after they are safe to handle. 

7. DO NOT allow children to light fireworks. 

8. Be considerate of your neighbors, pets, others near you when considering the timing 
of your fireworks.

The Marine Board and law enforcement from 32 counties and the Oregon State Police will be participating in Operation Dry Water during the weekend of June 29- July 1, as part of a nationally coordinated effort to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities related to boating under the influence of intoxicants (BUII).  

“To help marine officers prepare, we train them to recognize drug and alcohol impairment and arrest those operators –including those with paddles,” says Randy Henry, Boating Safety Manager for the Marine Board. 

Boating under the influence of intoxicants means prescription drugs, alcohol, inhalants, marijuana, or any other substance that impairs a person’s ability to make sound judgments and have the ability to safely operate a 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 for 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 and loss of boating privileges.  Marine officers can arrest boaters on observed impairment and can legally obtain blood, breath or urine if a boater fails field sobriety testing.  So far this year, nine people have been arrested for BUII. 

“Overall, recreational boating is very safe if boaters wear life jackets, boat sober, and keep a sharp lookout. 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 to follow the navigation rules of the road.  If boaters changed two things; wear life jackets and abstain from substances, accidents would be extremely rare,” says Henry.  So far this year, the common denominators for accidents include impairment, distracted operation and no life jacket.   Henry goes on to say, “The public is our ally in safe boating.  If you see an impaired operator or someone who is operating in a way that threatens others’ safety, call 911 and report it.  That’s how we can work together to save lives.”  

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

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At 10 a.m. on Saturday morning, June 23, members of the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office K9 Unit will meet with the Evergreen Mustangs Car Club of Vancouver, WA to discuss the fundraising efforts that helped the Sheriff's Office purchase ballistic vests for its K9s. Dogs will be on-hand to show off their new vests.

"Last year, the Evergreen Mustangs Car Club out of Vancouver, WA held a 'cruise-in' fundraiser to help us raise money for ballistic vests for our dogs," explained Sgt. Brad O'Neil of the Sheriff's Office K9 Unit. "They were able to provide us three vests, for K9s Grimm, Ajax and Valli. The vests have finally been made and are in our possession." 

At 10 a.m. on Saturday the Evergreen Mustangs bring some of their cars to the Sheriff's Office Brooks Building parking lot (9101 SE Sunnybrook Blvd., Clackamas, OR 97015) [ map ] to discuss their ongoing fundraising efforts. The K9s and handlers will be on-hand for the meeting. 

Media outlets are invited to conduct interviews and get a photo-op with the cars and dogs.

Contact Sgt. Brad O'Neil at 503-519-6638 with any questions or to set up interviews.

Photos of the dogs in their new ballistic vests are attached.

[END]

On May 3, 2018, Beaverton Police detectives arrested 49-year-old Dr. George Allen for Sex Abuse and he was transported to Washington County Jail. 

Since May 3rd, other victims have come forward to speak with Beaverton Police Detectives. 

A Washington County Grand Jury indicted Dr. Allen on the following charges: Rape in the First Degree, Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the First Degree, Kidnapping in the First Degree, 2 counts of Kidnapping in the Second Degree, 2 counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree and 7 counts of Sexual Abuse in the Third Degree.  Dr. Allen was arrested and lodged at Washington County Jail on June 21, 2018. 

Any additional victims are asked to call Beaverton Police Detective Cindy Herring at 503-526-2281.

##BPD##

More than 65 community members and several elected officials attended the Prevent Coalition Volunteer Appreciation Picnic on June 7th in Vancouver.  Volunteers from each of the nine partnering coalitions from Clark, Skamania and Klickitat counties we’re recognized with a certificate of appreciation for their contributions to community prevention projects and efforts over the past school year.

Certificates awarded by coalition:

• Prevent Coalition: Jesse Jimenez and Wendy Silverthorne
• Connect Evergreen: Missy Cummins and STASHA (Strong Teens Against Substance Hazards & Abuse)
• KLASAC (Klickitat and Lyle Against Substance Abuse Coalition): Carl Coolidge and Barbara Mills
• La Center United: Eric Hoppe, Nisa McDaid, and Kris Soske
• One Prevention Alliance: Alex Hays and Emma Penner
• Our Klickitat: Pam Tindall and Tammara Tippel
• Prevent Together Battle Ground: Marcy Sprecher and Rocksolid Community Teen Center
• Unite! Washougal: Paul Greenlee and Andrea Levin
• West Van for Youth: Christopher Belisle and Angela Riddle

Also recognized for on-going work were members of a tri-county task force for developing a prescription medication safe and secure home storage social marketing campaign. The campaign aims to reduce opioid misuse and will be implemented in Clark, Skamania and Klickitat counties in September of this year. 

Several elected officials and community leaders were recognized for their support. Those in attendance include:
- Anne McEnerny-Ogle, Mayor of City of Vancouver
- Ty Stober, Councilmember for City of Vancouver
- Marc Boldt, Clark County Councilmember Chair
- Molly Colton, Mayor of City of Washougal
- Paul Greenlee, Councilmember for City of Washougal
- Jeff Swanson, City Manager for the City of Battle Ground

“We’re so thankful for all the time and effort these volunteers invest to make our communities healthy and safe,” said Joy Lyons, Prevention and Youth Services Manager for Educational Service District 112. “They really care about the work and are making a big difference in our collective quality of life.”

Salem, Ore. Water samples taken on Wednesday, June 20 show cyanotoxins in the drinking water distribution system are below EPA Health Advisory guidelines.  Results from the most recent data will be available on the City’s website at www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

Salem’s Drinking Water Advisory applies to vulnerable populations including:

• Children under the age of six
• People with compromised immune systems or pre-existing liver conditions
• People receiving dialysis treatment, or other sensitive populations
• The elderly
• Pregnant women or nursing mothers
• Pets

We are still learning about how changing conditions at Detroit Reservoir may impact the cyanotoxin levels in our drinking water. As we learn more, we are refining our approaches to ensuring safe water and detecting toxins earlier. 

Earlier this week we were reminded of the impact of ever-changing conditions within our current water source when we saw one day of test results above EPA guidelines for vulnerable populations after 11 days of clean sampling, and then on the next day levels dropped significantly below advisory guidelines.

The City of Salem extended the drinking water advisory on June 10 for at least two weeks to address concerns about the two-day lag between sampling and receiving test results. By keeping the drinking water advisory in place, the City hopes to reduce confusion by giving residents and water customers the opportunity to review the data and take the precautions they feel necessary for their families and their customers. 

Drinking water filling stations are available while the advisory remains in effect. Residents need to bring their own clean and sanitary containers. Please visit www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx for the most current times and locations. 

Residents with questions regarding City water, or in need of assistance, can contact Salem Public Works at 503-588-6311. For health information during the advisory, please call 2-1-1 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Licensed facilities, including restaurants and public pools, with questions can contact Marion County Environmental Health at 503-588-5346 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The water advisory has impacted many people in Salem and surrounding areas. The City of Salem continues to be thankful for the continued patience and support of the community, partnering agencies, and local volunteer groups.  

Additional information will continue to be distributed through the City’s social media accounts and website www.cityofsalem.net.

Actualización del aviso de agua de la Ciudad de Salem 22 de junio, 2018

Salem, Ore. — Los resultados de la muestra de agua recibidos miércoles, 20 de junio índico que los niveles de cyanotoxins de la agua para beber esta debajo de la directiva del EPA. La Ciudad continúa proporcionando los resultados del agua en la página web de la Ciudad cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

El aviso del agua para beber para la población vulnerable continua para los siguientes:

• Niños menores de seis años

• Personas con un sistema inmunitario comprometido o con condiciones hepáticas preexistentes

• Personas que reciben tratamiento de diálisis u otras poblaciones sensibles

• Los ancianos

• Mujeres embarazadas o madres lactantes

• Mascotas

Todavía estamos aprendiendo sobre como las condiciones que cambian en Detroit Reservoir pueden impactar los niveles de los cyanotoxins en nuestra agua de beber. Mientras aprendemos más, estamos refinando nuestros aproches para asegurar la salud del agua y detectar toxinas más temprano. 

A principios de esta semana, fuimos recordados sobre el impacto del cambio continuo de las condiciones dentro nuestra fuente de agua cuando vimos un día de resultados arriba de la directiva del EPA para poblaciones vulnerables después de 11 días de agua limpia y el día siguiente los niveles bajaron significantemente abajo de la directiva del aviso. 

El 10 de junio la Ciudad de Salem extendió el aviso de agua por lo menos de dos semanas más para afrontar las preocupaciones sobre los dos días cuando las muestras son tomadas y los resultados recibidos.  En manteniendo el aviso de agua en su lugar, La Ciudad espera reducir confusión en dar a los residentes y los clientes de agua la oportunidad en revisar los datos y tomar las precauciones que ellos sienten es necesario para sus familias y clientes.

Estaciones de agua están disponibles mientras que el aviso de agua continúa, por favor vengan preparados con sus propios contenedores sanitarios.  Por favor visite nuestra página web (cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx) para los horarios y ubicaciones más actuales.

Los residentes que necesiten asistencia o tienen preguntas pueden ponerse en contacto con la Ciudad de Salem Public Works al 503-588-6311. Para obtener información médica durante el aviso, llama al 211 de 8 a.m. a 6 p.m. Los comercios de licencia, incluyendo restaurantes y piscinas públicas pueden ponerse en contacto con Marion County Environmental Health (Salud Ambiental del Condado de Marion) al 503-588-5346 lunes a viernes, 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.

El aviso del agua ha impactado a muchas personas en Salem y en las áreas cercanas. La Ciudad de Salem continúa ser agradecido por su paciencia y el apoyo de la comunidad, las agencias asociadas, y grupos de voluntarios locales.

Información adicional continuará siendo disponible en nuestras en nuestras redes sociales y página web (www.cityofsalem.net).

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver is currently accepting applications for $600,000 in homeless shelter project grants. Funding for the grants comes from the Affordable Housing Fund which was approved by voters in 2016.

Applications are due by July 31. Links to the application guidelines and the online application are available at www.cityofvancouver.us/affordablehousingfund.

Eligible projects include purchase or construction of new shelters or the rehabilitation of existing homeless shelter properties to complete health, safety, livability or accessibility improvements, with or without increasing the number of beds. Projects must be located within the city limits of Vancouver. Non-profit agencies, for-profit businesses and private property owners may apply for funds. Applicants must demonstrate (or have partners that demonstrate) experience owning and/or managing an existing homeless shelter.

The City will hold an optional workshop for interested applicants from 3 – 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 12, in the Aspen Room at Vancouver City Hall, 415 W. 6th St. Potential applicants can learn more about the grants and get questions answered at the workshop.

Grant funding recommendations will be made to Vancouver City Council in September 2018. 

The Affordable Housing Fund was created when Vancouver voters approved Proposition 1 in the November 2016 general election. The passage of the proposition granted the City the ability to levy a property tax for the purpose of buying, building and preserving low-income rental housing and preventing homelessness through rental assistance and other house services. For more information about the Affordable Housing Fund, visit www.cityofvancouver.us/affordablehousingfund

To request the application guidelines in another format or language, please contact Dannell Norby at 360-487-7953, TTY: (360) 487-8602, WA Relay: 711 or by email, by@cityofvancouver.us">danell.norby@cityofvancouver.us.

On June 20, 2018, Beaverton Police officers investigated a two vehicle traffic crash at SW Murray Blvd/SW Walker Rd.  One of the drivers, 29-year-old Michael Robert Jones, passed away due to the injuries he sustained in the crash. 

At 8:30 a.m. on the 20th, Beaverton Police officers and Washington County deputies responded to a two vehicle crash in the intersection of SW Murray Blvd/SW Walker Rd.  When officers arrived, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue personnel were already attending to Mr. Jones’ injuries.  Mr. Jones was transported by Metro West Ambulance to Emanuel Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

The investigation revealed Mr. Jones was riding a 2011 Yamaha R1 south on SW Murray approaching the SW Walker Rd intersection.  Witnesses stated Mr. Jones was lane splitting and passing vehicles.  Witnesses said Mr. Jones ran his red light at SW Walker Rd and collided with a 2014 BMW 535 which was turning left from northbound SW Murray Rd onto westbound SW Walker Rd.  The driver of the BMW was uninjured.  The motorcycle Mr. Jones was driving had been reported stolen out of San Francisco on March 31, 2018.  Mr. Jones’ family resides in California and he had recently moved to Oregon.

The intersection was closed for approximately three hours while Beaverton Police crash investigators diagramed the crash.

##BPD##

Saturday morning, June 23rd, local emergency responsers will compete in the 2nd annual Muscle Hustle Fire Truck Pull in Old Town Troutdale. This free event starts at 10am and everyone is welcome to cheer on their local Fire Department or Law Enforment Agency. This event benefits the Trauma Intervention Program of Portland/Vancouver and will be an opportunity to meet members of the Trauma Intervention Program and learn more about the program.

This is a family friendly event with a Kids Zone and Beer Garden. 

TIP recently celebrated it's 25th anniversay in Portland and responds to crisis situations at the request of local fire and pollice agencies to assist those affected by traumatic events.

For more innformation the TIP website is tipnw.org

The Office of State Fire Marshal, Oregon fire service, Keep Oregon Green,  the Pacific Northwest Wildfire Coordination Group, natural resource agencies, Oregon licensed fireworks wholesalers, and safety experts encourage Oregonians to “Keep it Legal and Keep it Safe” when using fireworks. The 2018 Oregon fireworks retail sales season opens Saturday, June 23 and runs through Friday, July 6. The OSFM and their partners want everyone to know which fireworks are legal to use in Oregon without a permit, where they are permitted to be used, and the important safety steps to take when using fireworks. 

“I want to remind all Oregonians that consumer legal fireworks can only be purchased from Oregon permitted fireworks retailers and stands,” says State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. “And, regulations limit where those fireworks may be used. Fire risk in Oregon is approaching extreme conditions and there is no room for error in fireworks safety.”

July 4th holiday public land visitors are advised to leave all fireworks at home. The use of fireworks is prohibited on all national forestland, Oregon state parks, and beaches. “It’s best to leave fireworks to the professionals,” states Keep Oregon Green President Kristin Babbs. “Support your local community by enjoying fireworks at sponsored events. If you choose to use fireworks at home, make sure they stay on the pavement and always keep a bucket of water nearby for safety and to extinguish spent fireworks.”

Oregon law prohibits possession, use, or sale of any firework that flies into the air, explodes, or travels more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground, without a permit issued by the OSFM. Fireworks commonly called bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers are illegal in Oregon, without a permit.

There were 318 reported fireworks-related fires in Oregon during 2017, resulting in eight injuries and more than $861,000 in property damage. Over the past five years, from 2013 through 2017, there were 1,355 reported fireworks-related fires in Oregon resulting in one death, 34 injuries, and more than $3 million in property damage.

Officials may seize illegal fireworks and charge offenders with a class B misdemeanor which could result in a fine of up to $2,500 per violation and a civil penalty of up to $500. Those who misuse fireworks or allow fireworks to cause damage are liable and may be required to pay fire suppression costs or other damage. Parents are also liable for fireworks damage caused by their children.

 “All Oregonians share the responsibility to use only consumer legal fireworks and use them carefully,” adds Walker. And we encourage you to be aware and considerate of neighbors and their pets, before deciding on when and where you choose to light fireworks.”

The OSFM encourages everyone to use the four B’s of safe fireworks use:

• Be Prepared before lighting fireworks: keep water available by using a garden hose or bucket.
• Be Safe when lighting fireworks: keep children and pets away from fireworks.
• Be Responsible after lighting fireworks: never relight a dud. Wait 15 to 20 minutes then soak it in a bucket of water before disposal.
• Be Aware: use only legal fireworks and use them only in legal places.

The four B’s of fireworks safety brochure is available here:

http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Licensing_permits/fireworks/4BesFireworks.pdf.

Tips in Spanish are also available at: http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Licensing_permits/fireworks/Fireworks_4Bs_Spanish.pdf

Vancouver, Wash. –On June 20, 2018, Vancouver Police conducted an emphasis project in east Vancouver along Mill Plain Blvd from approximate NE 104th-136th Avenue.  This emphasis included 25 Neighbors on Watch (NOW) volunteers, 15 Vancouver Police Officers comprised of the Neighborhood Response Teams East and West (NRT), Neighborhood Police Officers (NPO), Traffic Officers and two Department of Corrections officers. 

The purpose of this emphasis was to observe suspicious and criminal activity in commercial parking and deter or interfere with any theft or auto prowls in commercial parking lot areas. The NOW volunteers were utilized to observe and report suspicious activity to the officers in the emphasis. NRT Detectives and NPO’s would then contact and apprehend the observed suspects committing crime. 

   Below are the results of this 4.5 hour emphasis:

• 24 traffic stops/contacts
• 6 arrests (2 drug arrests and 4 warrant arrests)
• 2 stolen vehicles recovered
• 2 vehicles seized for search warrants

Highlights of the emphasis included:

• A traffic stop of a vehicle in which the driver had an outstanding warrant and upon search of the vehicle officers located drug paraphernalia and counterfeit currency.
• A drug transactions observed by NOW volunteers in which two suspects were arrested.
• A thwarted vehicle prowl in which NOW volunteers observed a subject suspiciously looking through cars in a parking lot. Upon contact by police, the subject was discovered to have two outstanding warrants.
• A suspect vehicle associated with a burglary was spotted in a motel parking lot with the property from burglary located inside the vehicle.

This emphasis was a great collaboration between police and our citizen volunteers and their participation to assist the Vancouver Police Department in efforts such as this are much appreciated.

###

The Vancouver Police Department is seeking applicants for Entry and Lateral Police Officers. If you are interested in a career with us, visit https://www.cityofvancouver.us/police/page/how-do-i-become-vancouver-police-officer.

PORTLAND – June 22, 2018 – FEMA Region 10 Administrator Mike O’Hare visited Oregon today to meet with Oregon Office of Emergency Management Director Andrew Phelps to sign an agreement that launches the FEMA Integration Team Program in the state. The FIT program will embed FEMA staff with state, local, tribal and territorial emergency management partners to increase capabilities and build resilience before, during and after disasters. 

The agreement was signed at Portland Bureau of Emergency Management offices in Portland to underscore the partnership between agencies at all levels of government.

“Oregon is proud to be among the nation’s first states to participate in the FIT program,” said Andrew Phelps. “It will enhance our capacity to support Oregonians in disasters and strengthen our relationship with FEMA through onsite collaboration and communication.”

The signing of the agreement is the first step toward implementing the FIT program. Through the embedded FIT staff, FEMA will provide technical assistance, training and coordination support for a range of program areas including, but not limited to, all hazards planning, exercise design and evaluation, access and functional needs or disability integration, grants management, and risk assessment and analysis.  The program is expected to be underway by late fall, 2018.

Deputies and detectives are searching for information on the location of Gleen Nedelic , age 30 of Salem.  On June 21, 2018 at 12:30 a.m., deputies were called to the Devonshire Court Apartments in Salem on a reported fight involving a knife. 

The victim who is not being named at this time reported a male identified as Nedelic stabbed him multiple times in his upper torso causing injury.  The victim was transported to Salem Hospital where he is expedited to survive his injuries. 

Nedelic fled the scene prior to deputies arriving and his current whereabouts are unknown.  The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information to please call 503 588 5032 or you can submit a tip by texting TIPMCSO followed by your tip to 847411. 

Vancouver, Wash. –On June 22, 2018 at approximately 3:00 a.m., Vancouver Police responded to a collision in the 8000 block of NE Burton Rd. A motorcycle rider was following an acquaintance that was driving an SUV and the SUV attempted to pass the vehicle in front of them and hit a median. The motorcycle also attempted to pass, hit the same median, lost control and crashed. The male rider died at the scene.

The Vancouver Police Traffic Unit is conducting the investigation.Impairment is believed to be a factor in the collision.

Burton Rd between NE 78-86th Avenue will be closed for several more hours while the Traffic Unit is on scene.

No further information is available at this time.

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The Vancouver Police Department is seeking applicants for Entry and Lateral Police Officers. If you are interested in a career with us, visit https://www.cityofvancouver.us/police/page/how-do-i-become-vancouver-police-officer.

June 22, 2018 – Salem, Ore. – The $7.3 million Oregon’s Game Megabucks winning ticket started out as a lucky mistake.
When Charles Svitak (pronounced ‘Swee-Tok’) of Central Point noticed the Oregon’s Game Megabucks jackpot was more than $7 million, he went to his local 7-Eleven to pick up a ticket. When he went to buy the ticket, the clerk told him that there were two mistake tickets that had already been printed, and offered him the chance to purchase them. Svitak opted to buy one of the two tickets.
Svitak said he went out to his vehicle, thought about it, then went back in and purchased the other mistake ticket – a decision that turned out to be worth $7.3 million.
“When I checked the ticket on my computer I couldn’t believe it,” Svitak, who works a graveyard shift in Medford, said. “The first thing I thought is that I had worked my last graveyard shift. It was a very good day.”
Svitak immediately traveled to Salem to claim his prize – without telling his wife.
“On the way home I got a new truck and put the oversized check they gave me on the windshield,” he said. “Then I took her out to show her truck and she realized I won the lottery. She hasn’t stopped giggling since.”
Svitak took the lump sum option and was given a check for $3.65 million for his prize. The couple said they are talking to a financial planner and said they planned on traveling and purchasing a couple of new vehicles with the winnings.
The winning ticket was sold at the 7-Eleven on Front Street in Central Point on Saturday, June 16 -- the day of the draw. Svitak became the 284th Oregon’s Game Megabucks millionaire since Nov. 20, 1985, when the game first launched. William Breese of Portand was the last Oregon’s Game Megabucks jackpot winner, $8.9 million, in March.
During the 2015-17 biennium, more than $34 million in Oregon Lottery proceeds were directed to economic development, parks, education and watershed enhancement in Jackson County, where Svitak lives.
Lottery officials recommend that you always sign the back of your tickets with each Oregon Lottery game you play, to ensure you can claim any prize you may win. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Prize winners of more than $50,000 should contact the Lottery office to schedule an appointment to claim their prize.
Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $11 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org

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UPDATE:  6-22-18 1214am....We apologize but we do not have additional details to release at this time.   The deputies are still tied up on calls for service.   We will release additional details tomorrow.

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The details are limited at this time as the pursuit just ended.

Initial reports from the on duty sergeant indicate that a Cowlitz County Deputy Sheriff attempted to stop a car earlier this evening (in Cowlitz County) and the female driver fled south on I-5.    The pursuit continued in to Clark County.   When the woman attempted to drive the wrong way on Hwy 14, Cowlitz County Deputies used the P.I.T (pursuit intervention technique) maneuver to stop the car.   No one was injured.  The woman said she had ingested meth.  She was taken back to Cowlitz County where she will be booked for Felony Eluding.   She was also booked on an unrelated felony warrant.   There was a passenger who was also arrested for 2 felony warrants who was also wanted on D.O.C. hold.  There were two other passengers who were in the car and were released. 

We hope to be able to provide more details in about an hour. 

We do not have any photos or other details at this time. 

CCD. Rosenzweig 

Just after 6:30 pm this evening, Dallas Fire & EMS responded to a reported apartment fire at 528 SW Levens St., Metro Garden Apartments. Firefighters located the fire in an apartment on the 2nd floor of the complex and quickly extinguished it. The apartment sustained heavy smoke and fire damage. Firefighters were able to rescue the resident’s cat while they were working on putting the fire out. The apartment directly above the fire also sustained smoke damage. Seven people were displaced as a result of this fire and are working with the Red Cross. Dallas Police is investigating the cause.

Governor Kate Brown has declared the Graham Fire, burning approximately 3 miles south of Billy Chinook, a conflagration. The declaration cleared the way for the state fire marshal to mobilize firefighters and equipment to assist local resources battling the fire.

The Office of State Marshal’s Green Incident Management Team and two structural task forces from Clackamas and Washington counties will arrive in the morning and begin working to protect structures.

The Jefferson County Emergency Manager said there was a Level 3 (Leave) evacuation order issued but it was unclear how many people had evacuated.

“This is a reminder that fire season has arrived,” said Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. “Please be aware of maintaining defensible space and know the fire restrictions in your area.”

Oregon’s conflagration may be invoked only by the Governor and allows the State Fire Marshal to dispatch structural firefighters and equipment. More information on Conflagration and Emergency

Mobilization is available at OSFM website:

 http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/2008_Oregon_Fire_Service_Mobilization_Plan.shtml.

Additional resources on surviving wildfires may be accessed at:

• Wildfire…Evacuation Readiness http://egov.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/WUI/wildfire_evac.doc
• After the Wildfire… http://egov.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/WUI/After_a_wildfire.doc

Disaster responders with the American Red Cross Cascades Region responded at approximately 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 21, 2018 in the 500 block of SW Levens Street in Dallas, Polk County, Ore.

The multi-family fire affected six adults and several pets.

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits with toiletry items, information about recovery services, and health and mental health services.

Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department.

The Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families affected by disasters, like home fires, every day.

The Red Cross advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online form at www.redcross.org/GetAnAlarm to schedule an appointment.

WHEN:           Friday, June 22, 2018 at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE:         Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue Training Center, 12400 SW Tonquin Road, Sherwood, Oregon

WHO:             The Office of State Fire Marshal, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, U.S. Forest Service, Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon State Parks, Clackamas Fire District #1, Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Oregon Burn Center, the Oregon Humane Society, and Oregon licensed fireworks wholesalers will provide information on legal fireworks in Oregon, where fireworks may be used, and safety education and enforcement efforts. Live fireworks demonstrations are scheduled. 

WHAT:           Keep it legal, keep it safe

• Legal fireworks in legal places
• Live demonstration – Safer use of fireworks

June 23 opens the season for fireworks sales in Oregon. Legal fireworks may be purchased only from Oregon permitted fireworks retailers and stands. The Office of State Fire Marshal has issued approximately 722 retail fireworks permits, and 138 display permits. Oregon law prohibits possession, use, or sale of any firework that flies into the air, explodes, or travels more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground, without a permit issued by the OSFM. Fireworks commonly called bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers are ILLEGAL in Oregon without a permit.

All fireworks are prohibited on all Oregon beaches, in state parks, and campgrounds, and on all federal public lands.

Illegal fireworks can be expensive. Officials may seize illegal fireworks and charge offenders with a class B misdemeanor which could result in a fine of up to $2,500 per violation and a civil penalty of up to $500. Those who misuse fireworks or allow fireworks to cause damage are liable and may be required to pay fire suppression costs or other damage. Parents are also liable for fireworks damage caused by their children.

The historic Zimmerman House was built in 1874 and was home to three generations of the Zimmerman Family.  Their furnishings and personal articles remain in this two-story Victorian home, with nine rooms open to the public. 

We are open every Saturday in July and August, from noon-4pm at 17111 NE Sandy Blvd., Gresham.  

Quilts from the 1850s to the 1930s, along with a variety of sewing baskets, thread, and patterns, are now on display for a limited time.  And come see the gardens - they are beautiful!                                                               

Admission is free to members and children under 13, $5 seniors and $7 adults.

For more information, please visit echohistory.org, call 503-618-0946 or email info@echohistory.org. 

The City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services has issued $671,128 in penalties and charges to Oregon Oils for repeated violations of its industrial wastewater discharge permit and causing clogs to a pump station in Northwest Portland.

Environmental Services issued 104 Notices of Violations against the company, located at 2515 NW 29th Avenue in Portland, and assessed civil penalties totaling $238,500. The violations include:

• Discharging fats, oils and grease at concentrations and volumes that could obstruct the City’s sewer system;
• Discharging wastewater at higher temperatures than allowed, which can damage the City’s sewer pipes, pump stations and treatment plant;
• Repeatedly clogging a nearby pump station;
• Failing to notify the City when discharges occurred as required by permit;
• Falsifying records; and
• Falsifying submeter reports.

In addition to the civil penalties, Environmental Services has billed the company $432,628 in sewer and extra strength charges for the amount of unreported wastewater discharged to the system.

These civil enforcement actions resulted from an Environmental Services investigation that began in January of repeated interference to a City sanitary pump station just downstream of the Oregon Oils discharge point. As a result, Environmental Services also revoked Oregon Oils’ industrial pretreatment permit, and Oregon Oils is not authorized to discharge until treatment technology and sampling structures are installed and Environmental Services verifies compliance.

In addition, Oregon State Police, with assistance from the US Environmental Protection Agency and Environmental Services, executed a criminal search warrant at the business in April. That criminal investigation is ongoing.

Oregon Oils has the opportunity to appeal the civil penalties and has indicated that it will.

View the news release, Notice of Violation letter and Sewer and Extra Strength charges letter at https://bit.ly/2K1af72

The Bureau of Environmental Services provides city residents with programs to protect water quality and public health, including wastewater collection and treatment, sewer construction and maintenance, stormwater management, and stream and watershed restoration. For news updates, follow @BESPortland on Twitter and visit http://www.portlandoregon.gov/bes/news.

SWEET HOME, Ore. – Over 200 wildland firefighters and instructors will convene in Sweet Home the last week of June to take part in the annual five day Mid-Willamette Valley Interagency Wildland Fire School. Officials from the U.S. Forest Service, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), U.S Fish and Wildlife Service, Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) are hosting the training to prepare new firefighters for fighting fire, both in Oregon's forests and in rural-urban interface areas.

Co-Incident Commanders Shawn Sheldon, Deputy Fire Staff for the BLM and Willamette National Forest; and Craig Pettinger, Unit Forester for ODF in Sweet Home, see fire school as an opportunity to train firefighters in both tactical skills and safety.

“This is the 22nd year our agencies have collaborated for this,” said Sheldon. “Fire School provides crucial education and training in wildland fire to new firefighters and gives career firefighters a chance to refresh their skills and explore leadership opportunities."  

Trainees will spend the first part of the week in a classroom. Classes include basic fire behavior, weather, map and compass use, teamwork, safety, use of engines, tools and hose lays, fighting fire in the rural-urban interface and fire investigation. Students will sleep in tents at Sweet Home High School and eat meals together, giving them a taste of life in a real fire camp.

The course is capped with a live-fire exercise on Friday, June 29 just outside of Sweet Home. This will give trainees a final challenge: applying their newly acquired skills to suppress and mop-up a real fire.

“Cascade Timber Consulting, Inc., a local landowner, provides a new field site each year and we are very grateful,” added Sheldon. “The live fire exercise significantly enhances the students’ training experience – working in smoke, hiking through uneven terrain, and working closely with crew members to dig fireline, are all things they’ll experience this season as wildland firefighters.”

Safety principles of fire training include wearing protective gear, safe use of tools and being on the lookout for hazards. “Safety is paramount in every aspect of wildland firefighting, and it begins with our training exercises,” explained Pettinger.  "Working together in a training setting improves communications and builds effective relationships for the agencies to draw on during fire season."

This year, the field site that will be used for the live fire exercise is located approximately 5 miles east of Sweet Home adjacent to Highway 20. Fire officials are urging the public to use caution as there will be increased fire traffic in the area and the potential for visible smoke on Friday, June 29. For more information, please contact Public Information Officers Chiara Cipriano, (541) 731-4427, or Jim Gersbach, (503) 945-7425.

# # #

Note to media:
This opportunity offers access to both trainee and experienced firefighters as they prepare for the 2018 fire season. However, we require 24-hour notice of your intent to participate, as all media must be accompanied by an agency escort and have personal protective equipment (see list below).
 
Personal protective equipment includes:

• Nomex pants
• Long-sleeve Nomex shirt
• Gloves
• Hard hat
• Vibram-soled leather boots

Protective equipment (excluding boots) may be available for media to borrow. Please contact Chiara Cipriano to make arrangements.

As of June 21 at 1 am, the Polk County Fire Defense Board in conjunction with the Oregon Department of Forestry West Oregon District, has enacted a county-wide burn ban for all of Polk County. Residents of Polk County are reminded that no burning of any type is allowed during the county-wide burn ban. The burn ban will remain in effect until significant rains return in the fall. For Burn Complaints and Information please visit www.wvcc911.org or call the burn line at (503)838-2020. 

Candyce Hayes, MSSP Executive Director, said, "We are extending our deadline for the Multiple Sclerosis individuals to apply for a new portable window air conditioner this year due to a low number of applications.  We have switched over to electronic newsleters which we believe may be contributing to the shortage of applications.  To be eligible individuals must have a diagnosis of MS and live in Oregon or SW Washington.  We need to spread the work about this program se we can help as many people as possible. 

Vancouver, Wash. – With fireworks sales beginning Thursday, June 28, Clark County reminds residents to comply with local and state laws and use fireworks safely and responsibly.

In unincorporated areas north of Northwest/Northeast 219th Street, fireworks can be used from noon to 11 pm June 28, 9 am to 11 pm June 29-July 3 and 9 am to midnight July 4. In unincorporated areas south of Northwest/Northeast of 219th Street, fireworks can be used from 9 am to midnight July 4.

Earlier this month, the Clark County Council voted to eliminate that dividing line and restrict fireworks use in unincorporated areas to Independence Day, but that change won’t take effect until 2019.

Fireworks also can be used from 6 pm Dec. 31 to 1 am Jan. 1 in unincorporated areas.

Vancouver has banned fireworks within its city limits. Clark County provides a handy online chart and interactive map that allows anyone with an online device to quickly determine the rules for fireworks based on their address.

Clark County will have patrols out enforcing the fireworks laws. People who illegally use fireworks, such as curfew or device-type violations, are subject to a $500 civil fine for first offenses and $1,000 for subsequent violations. Residents can report illegal fireworks use by calling 311.

Safety first
Residents and visitors are urged to celebrate the Fourth of July with extra caution because of the dry conditions throughout Clark County. An outdoor burn ban will take effect on Sunday, July 1, two weeks earlier than the typical July 15-Sept. 30 period when outdoor burning is prohibited.

If you plan to buy fireworks, the best option is to purchase them locally from a stand inspected by the Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office. Fireworks purchased outside the county may not be legal locally.

A few important safety reminders:

• Always have a bucket of water and water hose ready to douse any fire.
• Assign a responsible adult to supervise fireworks use.
• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings, vehicles and dry vegetation.
• Never aim fireworks at people or structures.
• Never attempt to alter fireworks or relight “duds” that fail to ignite.

Proper cleanup, disposal

Responsible fireworks use doesn’t end when the revelry is over. Residents need to clean up their debris and properly disposed of used and unused fireworks.

Fireworks debris should not be left in the street because it is considered littering, a violation of Washington law and Clark County Code. Clark County Public Works does not provide extra street sweeping after Independence Day.

If not properly cleaned up, fireworks debris can be washed into storm drains that lead to streams, rivers and other waterways. Fireworks contain a number of heavy metals and other chemicals that can build up in fish and wildlife. Residents can reduce this contamination by sweeping up fireworks debris as soon as possible and not using fireworks near waterways.

Even after the Fourth of July is over, fireworks remain potential sources of fire and worker injury. Improper disposal of fireworks puts garbage and recycling workers at increased risk of injury from fires in their trucks and at transfer stations.

Fireworks and fireworks debris are not recyclable. Do not put them in recycling carts because they will contaminate recyclable materials.

All used fireworks should be treated as garbage. 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 landscaping where it won’t flow into storm drains. Do not pour the water onto pavement or into the street.

Never put unused fireworks in your garbage or recycling. They are explosives and can cause serious harm to workers and cause fires. Do not take unused fireworks to transfer stations because they do not accept explosives.

Some fire and police stations in Clark County will accept unused fireworks. Residents should contact specific stations to see if they accept unused fireworks during their business hours or visit the Recycling A-Z website to search for disposal locations.

June 21, 2018 – Salem, Ore. – An Oregon Lottery player matched all numbers drawn in Wednesday night’s $150.4 million Powerball® jackpot. The winning ticket was sold in Salem. The specific store location is not available for release until after the ticket has been redeemed and validated at Lottery headquarters in Salem.

Winning numbers for draw date (June 20, 2018): 4 -14 - 23 - 27 - 56 and the power ball was 13

The Power Play multiplier was 2

The winning Salem ticket was the only ticket sold to have the all the winning numbers. More than 6,800 winning tickets, with smaller prizes, were sold in Oregon during the June 20 draw.

A winner has one year from the date of the drawing to claim the prize. Oregon Lottery office hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

Players have two jackpot prize payment options when claiming their Powerball tickets. One option is the “annuity” plan, under which Powerball jackpots provide the winner(s) with 30 annual payments.  Under the “cash” option, the winners(s) receives a one-time lump sum payment equal to approximately one-half the final jackpot. If the winner opts to take the lump sum, they can take home nearly $61.7 million after taxes. If the winner opts for the annuity option they will receive 30 graduated payments over 29 years. Federal withholding is 24 percent and state withholding is 8 percent.

Powerball is a multi-state jackpot operated by 44 states plus the District of Columbia, the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. By pooling a portion of each lottery’s Powerball sales, this game is able to offer players jackpots of far greater value than any lottery could offer alone.

This is the fifth time a ticket sold in Oregon has had all the winning numbers. Previous winners include Dan Gannon of Milwaukie who won $182.7 million in 2006; The West and Chaney families of Medford who won $340 million; Robin Powell of Beaverton who won $33.8 million in 1999; and the Givens family of Eugene who won $38.4 million in 1992.

It is also the fifth time the Powerball jackpot has been won this year nationwide.

In Oregon, the winner’s name, city, city of retailer, date of win, prize and game played are considered public information and will be released.

For additional information about the Powerball jackpot, please contact the Oregon Lottery Public Affairs the next business day at 503-540-1015.

Lottery officials recommend that you always sign the back of your tickets with each Oregon Lottery game you play, to ensure you can claim any prize you may win. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Prize winners of more than $50,000 should contact the Lottery office to schedule an appointment to claim their prize.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25,1985, it has earned more than $11 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org

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Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a home fire disaster on June 21, 2018, at approximately 1:00 p.m. in the 46000 block E Lyons Mill City Drive in Lyons, Oregon. The fire affected two adults and pets. 

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits with toiletry items, information about recovery services, and health and mental health services. Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department.

The Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families affected by disasters, like home fires, every day. The Red Cross advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online form at www.redcross.org/GetAnAlarm to schedule an appointment.

The National Park Service welcomes you to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site to celebrate Independence Day! Due to the Independence Day at Fort Vancouver event, visitors’ cars will not be permitted to enter or park in the park on July 4. However, all park facilities, including the Visitor Center, the reconstructed Fort Vancouver, and Pearson Air Museum, will be open to pedestrian access after visitors enter through one of the three security checked gates.

As the fireworks show will not start until 10:05 pm, the park facilities will be open later than usual, with both Fort Vancouver and Pearson Air Museum operating from 12 pm to 8 pm, and the park’s Visitor Center and Bookstore operating from 12 pm to 5 pm. The usual fees will apply to enter the fort ($7.00 for adults, children 15 and under are free), while there is no fee to enter the Visitor Center or Pearson Air Museum.

National Park Service staff and volunteers will be dressed in period costumes throughout the reconstructed fort to help bring the site to life and present the lifeways of the 19th century fur trade. The Visitor Center and Pearson Air Museum will have exhibits and films available for viewing as well.

The non-profit, Friends of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site will operate the bookstore at the park’s Visitor Center from 12 pm to 5 pm, and they will also be operating a sales tent area on E. 5th Street, adjacent to Pearson Air Museum from 12 pm to 8 pm.

Visitors are also welcome to take a flight in a vintage 1930 bi-plane which will be operating from the taxiway adjacent to Pearson Air Museum. The operator, Nostalgic Warbird & Biplane Rides, piloted by Mike Carpentiero will be operating throughout the day. For more information on the costs of bi-plane rides, please call (512) 203-2341.

What: Independence Day at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Learn more about this event, produced by the Fort Vancouver National Trust, at https://thehistorictrust.org/calendar/vancouvers-fireworks-spectacular/

 
Where: Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, including the reconstructed Hudson’s Bay Company Fort Vancouver, the Visitor Center, and Pearson Air Museum
 
When: Wednesday, July 4, 2017, 12 pm to 8 pm
 
Cost: Entrance to the reconstructed Fort Vancouver is $7.00 for adults and free for children 15 and under. All interagency (America the Beautiful) passes are honored. Pearson Air Museum and the Visitor Center are free of charge.

DATE:  6/15/18

Marion County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to ORS181.507, OAR 291-28-30, which authorizes Parole and Probation to inform the public when the release of information will enhance public safety and protection.

The individual who appears on this notification has been convicted of a sex offense that requires registration with the Sheriff’s Office.  Additionally, this person’s criminal history places them in a classification level which reflects the potential to re-offend.  This notification is not intended to increase fear; rather, it is our belief that an informed public is a safer public.

NAME: William Blizzard

SID#: 11749027

DOB: 7/22/1977

CURRENT AGE: 40

RACE:            WHITE           SEX: MALE

HEIGHT: 6’2”                        WEIGHT: 190 lbs

HAIR: BROWN                     EYES: BLU

RESIDENCE: 2178 State Street #2

Salem, OR 97301

William Blizzard is on Post Prison Supervision for the crimes of: SODO I, INCEST, UNLAWFUL USE OF VEHICLE AND MAIL THEFT

This person was granted supervision on: 2/16/2012

Supervision expiration date is: 10/10/2023

Special restrictions include:               

[X] No contact with minors (male/female)

[X] Sex offender treatment

[X] Submit to polygraph        

Other:  Blizzard’s victim pool includes adult males and females known to him.

Vancouver, Wash. – Jim Rumpeltes has tapped Mitch Nickolds to be the director of Clark County’s Community Development department. Nickolds has been serving as interim director since April.

Nickolds was hired as the county’s assistant building official in February of this year. Prior to that, he worked for the city of Portland as Inspection Services Division manager. He served as the Inspection Services Division manager for the city of Pasco for more than 16 years. Nickolds is a Certified Building Official and has more than 26 years of work experience in community development.

“Mitch is taking the lead of Community Development during a busy and challenging time,” said Rumpeltes. “I’m confident that his leadership skills and breadth of experience will serve our community well.”

Clark County’s Community Development department has more than 100 employees who work in a wide variety of divisions including Animal Protection and Control, Building Inspections and Permits, Code Enforcement, Land Use and the Fire Marshal’s office.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to lead and work with the great people who are Clark County’s Community Development department to ensure the delivery of excellent and highly efficient service to our customers, both internal and external,” said Nickolds. “I am committed to ensuring all residents, property owners and business owners and operators in Clark County are equitably served and enjoy the highest probability of success with all our services.”

For more information about Community Development, go to the county’s website at www.clark.wa.gov/community-development.

(SPRINGFIELD, Ore.) June 21, 2018— PacificSource Health Plans has named Dr. Edward McEachern as executive vice president and chief medical officer. Dr. McEachern joined PacificSource in 2015 as medical director for Medicare programs and has been serving as interim chief medical officer since early 2018. In his new role, Dr. McEachern will provide operational and strategic leadership to the clinical enterprise of the company.

Dr. McEachern’s will also work to maintain strong relationships with PacificSource’s provider partners to improve the health outcomes in populations the organization serves in Oregon, Idaho, and Montana.

“Dr. McEachern is a proven leader with a track record for producing innovative, industry-changing solutions,” said Ken Provencher, president and CEO of PacificSource. “His global healthcare background, knowledge of care coordination, and mastery of quality management will serve our members well, now and into the future.”

Dr. McEachern originally came to PacificSource from Saint Alphonsus Health Alliance in Boise, Idaho, where he was chief medical officer and executive director of operations. Prior to that role, he helmed a venture capital fund that focused on healthcare, and served as chief medical officer for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Ohio.

Dr. McEachern is also an associate professor at the University of Utah School of Medicine and an assistant professor at Utah’s David Eccles School of Business. He holds six patents, authored seven books, published more than 80 peer-reviewed articles, and has served as a healthcare consultant for the U.S. State Department and Peace Corps.

Outside of work he enjoys music, cycling, hiking, rafting, camping, fishing, and spending time with his wife and teenaged triplets. 

About PacificSource Health Plans:

PacificSource Health Plans is an independent, not-for-profit community health plan serving the Northwest. Founded in 1933, PacificSource is based in Springfield, Oregon, with local offices throughout Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. The PacificSource family of companies employs 1000 people, serves more than 300,000 individuals, and has 3,900 employer clients throughout the Northwest. For more information visit PacificSource.com.

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Amarillo, Texas – The Bureau of Land Management’s Federal Helium Program is planning an auction and sale of federally owned crude helium for delivery beginning in fiscal year 2019.  The auction is scheduled for July 18, 2018.  After the auction, the BLM will invite the helium industry to bid for crude helium in an unallocated sale. This effort will facilitate development opportunities that create jobs and help local communities grow.

The auction complies with the Helium Stewardship Act of 2013, which established an auction system for the sale of federal helium and mandated that all property, equipment, and interest held by the United States in the Federal Helium Reserve be disposed of by Sept. 30, 2021.  The BLM conducted sales and auctions for fiscal years 2014 through 2018, and enhanced the process based upon public and stakeholders’ comments.  As a result, the BLM will use the same auction and sale process used for FY 2018 for the FY 2019 delivery.  The auction will be announced in the Federal Register on Friday.

The Federal Helium Program is responsible for the conservation and sale of federally owned helium. The BLM operates and maintains a helium storage reservoir, enrichment plant, and pipeline system near Amarillo, Texas, that supplies enough helium to meet more than 40 percent of domestic demand for the gas. 

Helium is used in the testing of rocket engines, welding, commercial diving, and production of semiconductor chips. The element’s ability to reach very low temperatures attracts many commercial and institutional users who conduct magnetic resonance imaging and other scientific applications. Other industries depend on helium’s lifting powers for operating weather and party balloons. 

Additional documents relating to the proposed plan for the FY 2019 auction and sale, including documents related to previous Federal Register notices and the 2019 Auction Guide, can be found on the BLM’s Helium Program website at http://www.blm.gov/programs/energy-and-minerals/helium.  The auction will be held at the BLM Amarillo Field Office, 801 South Fillmore Street, Suite 500, in Amarillo, Texas.

You may request a copy of the Federal Register notice and associated documents by e-mail at lm_nm_amfo_spo@blm.gov">blm_nm_amfo_spo@blm.gov, by fax at 806-356-1041, or by mail at BLM Amarillo Field Office, Attention: Samuel Burton, Field Manager, 801 South Fillmore Street, Suite 500, Amarillo, Texas 79101.

-BLM–

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The agency’s mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. Diverse activities authorized on these lands generated $75 billion in sales of goods and services throughout the American economy in fiscal year 2016—more than any other agency in the Department of the Interior. These activities supported more than 372,000 jobs.

SALEM, Ore. — Three Oregon Department of Forestry fire protection districts from the mid-coast through the southern Willamette Valley to the crest of the Cascades entered fire season on Thursday, June 21. ODF-protected lands covered by the declaration include state, private, county, and city forestland, as well as Bureau of Land Management (BLM) forestlands in western Oregon.

The West Oregon, Western Lane and South Cascade districts protect lands in Benton, Lane, Lincoln, Polk, southern Linn County and a portion of northwest Douglas County.

An unusually dry May and early June prompted the declarations.

 “We’ve received a couple shots of rain recently, but that doesn’t make up for the dry spring we’ve experienced this year. The result is that we are a couple weeks ahead of where we traditionally are regarding fuel moistures and fire conditions in the forest,” said Western Lane District Forester Link Smith.

Chris Cline is district forester for ODF’s South Cascade District based in Springfield. He said fuel moistures in eastern Lane and southern Linn counties are already similar to what they historically would be for the beginning of July. “We look carefully at local conditions in determining when to declare the start of fire season. What they are telling us is that in our district it is now dry enough for wildfires that do start to have the potential to spread more rapidly.”

As of June 20, more than 200 wildfires were reported on ODF-protected lands throughout Oregon. These burned just over 200 acres. More than 80% of those fires were caused by people. In light of those numbers, West Oregon District Forester Mike Totey said, “Most wildfires at this time of year are triggered by people, so they are almost entirely preventable with some foresight. An activity that might be low risk when vegetation is thoroughly soaked and humidity is high could ignite a wildfire when longer hours of sunlight, warmth and relatively light rainfall have started drying those fuels out.”

Fire restrictions in ODF districts vary somewhat. To find out what restrictions are in place at any given location, go online to ODF’s statewide fire restrictions and closures page at www.oregon.gov/ODF/Fire/Pages/Restrictions.aspx or call the ODF office below that is nearest:

• Western Lane (Veneta) – 541-935-2222
• West Oregon (Philomath) – 541-929-6300 and press 1
• South Cascade – (Springfield) – 541-726-3588 and press 2

Six other ODF districts and forest protective associations in southern and eastern Oregon have been in fire season since earlier this month due to warm, dry conditions that have elevated fire risk.

                                                                                         # # #

Vancouver, WA – Effective Sunday, July 1, all land clearing and residential burning in Clark County will be restricted due to increased fire danger. Cowlitz and Skamania counties also will impose bans for lands in their jurisdictions.

Clark County Fire Marshal Jon Dunaway is canceling all burning permits issued in Clark County for this year. Permits can be reissued or extended when the ban is lifted. The burning restrictions do not apply to federally managed lands.

Clark County typically bans outdoor burning from July 15 through Sept. 30 each year. However, a ban can begin sooner or end later depending on conditions.

“After talking with the county’s Fire Chiefs and looking at the current conditions as well as the extended forecast, we are all in agreement that the ban should be implemented earlier this year,” said Dunaway.

At the same time, the Pacific Cascade Region of the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, DNR, will impose restrictions on both permitted and rule burning on DNR protected lands within these three counties. Permits that have been issued are suspended until the fire danger subsides in the fall. The fire danger in the three counties will be set to moderate, which prohibits rule burning. In effect, all debris burning is prohibited on DNR protected lands and fire district protected lands in the three counties until further notice.

Creating a defensible space around homes is important to prevent a grass or brush fire from reaching your home. Dunaway recommends these actions in both rural and urban areas:

• Remove fuel:
  • Within 3-5 feet of foundations, outbuildings, garages and sheds
  • Within 10 feet of your house
  • Under decks and porches
  • From gutters, eaves, porches and decks

• Cut your lawn if it is brown. Dispose of debris and cuttings.
• Prune trees so lowest branches are 6-10 feet above the ground.
• Landscape with native and flame-resistant plants.

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

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

Self-contained camp stoves are a safe and easy alternative to camp fires for cooking.

For more information, please contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 360.397.2186 or visit the county’s website at www.clark.wa.gov/development/fire/burning.html.

GRESHAM, Ore. – The Gresham Police Department is actively participating in Oregon Impact and Oregon Department of Transportation Pedestrian Safety Operations. On June 20, Gresham Officers conducted targeted enforcement along the area of E Powell Blvd. and NE Liberty Ave. Officers issued 18 citations and made two arrests from the hours of 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Education for drivers and pedestrians is vital to keeping our roads safe. Motorists must stop and yield to pedestrians who are waiting to cross, or who are in the process of crossing, the roadway. Motorists are also required to stop at all crosswalks when a vehicle is already stopped in a lane next to the one they are traveling in. Refer to Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 811.028, Failure to Stop and Remain Stopped for Pedestrian, for specifics on the law regarding drivers. Refer to ORS Chapter 814 for laws pertaining to pedestrians.

The department is hoping to raise pedestrian safety awareness for drivers and pedestrians through education and enforcement of pedestrian right-of-way laws. Additional missions will be scheduled during the summer and again in September, as the new school year begins.

Today, the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health System (OAHHS) released a report showing that in 2016, Oregon hospitals provided $2.19 billion in community benefit to the communities they serve. From training medical professionals, to funding critical health research, to sponsoring wellness events, hospitals increased spending in state-defined community benefit categories other than charity care by $400 million in 2016, as compared with average levels over the previous three years. This increase continues to fulfill a pledge from early 2015, in which hospitals announced they would offset drops in charity care, as a result in Medicaid expansion, by investing in other state-defined community benefit categories. The statewide total of $2.19 billion was a record high.

“We are very proud of Oregon hospitals’ continued community commitment,” said Andy Van Pelt, executive Vice President of the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems. “The numbers reflect the profound health needs in our communities that hospitals are addressing. It shows that hospitals continue to go beyond providing high-quality care for the sick and injured and indeed work to the health of communities outside the four walls of the hospital.”

Analysis of the data shows that total community benefit has increased 49 percent from 2010 to 2016 – rising from $1.47 billion in 2010 to $2.19 billion in 2016. Significant subcategory program increases from 2010 to 2016 include:

• Community building, which include programs that provide opportunities to address root causes of health problems, such as poverty, homelessness, and environmental problems, increased by a significant 150 percent;
• Community health improvement, which includes school health-education programs, web-based consumer health information, and worksite health education programs, increased by 10 percent;
• Research increased 12 percent;
• Health professions education increased 8 percent; and
• Subsidized health services increased 9 percent.

In the report based on state data, OAHHS highlights not just the numbers behind the community benefit data but also some examples of current community benefit programs around Oregon.

 “These stories show that Oregon’s hospitals are not only continuing to keep their commitment to community benefit spending, but they are going above and beyond in their local communities and are deeply focused on the health needs of the people they serve,” concluded Van Pelt.

In 2007, the Oregon legislature defined community benefit as health care-related services that hospitals provide without the expectation of compensation. It includes but is not limited to such categories as:

1. Health services to vulnerable or underserved people
2. Financial or in-kind support for public health programs
3. Health education, health screenings, and prevention services
4. Medical research and health professions education
5. Community-building activities such as neighborhood revitalization projects, or workforce development programs

The hospital stories contained in OAHHS’ report highlight the wide range of services that respond to specific, identified health needs of local communities. If you are interested in learning more about community benefit programs at your local hospital, reach out to your hospital directly for more examples like the ones found in the Community Benefit Report.

###

To learn more about Oregon hospitals’ community benefit activities, visit http://www.oahhs.org/policy/community-benefit.

To learn more about the state reporting program of community benefit, visit
https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/ANALYTICS/Pages/Hospital-Reporting.aspx

Last night, 06/20/2018 at 7:55 p.m., deputies with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and fire personnel with the Silverton Fire District were called to Canyonview Camp located in the 13000 block of Finlay Road NE near Silverton.  Camp personnel reported a swimmer had disappeared underwater and could not be located. 

When deputies and fire personnel arrived on scene they found lifeguards and camp counselors searching the approximate two acre pond for the missing swimmer.  A short time later the body of 14 year old, Naomi Rudolph of Keizer was located and pulled from the water.  Naomi had been working at the camp as a junior camp counselor and was using her off time to swim in the pond. 

From their investigation deputies believe the teen was swimming when she began to struggle and called for help.  Sadly lifeguards could not get to her before she submerged and Ms. Rudolph died.  This marks the first drowning death in Marion County for the 2018 summer season and it is with heavy hearts that we must remind swimmers how dangerous water can be.  Provided is a link to some swimming safety tips created by safekidsoregon.org.  http://www.safekidsoregon.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/swimming_safety_tips2_0.pdf

The Sheriff’s Office thoughts and prayers are with the Rudolph family and all those affected at Canyonview Camp. 

Vancouver, Wash. – An exhibition of Erika Bartlett’s artwork 7 Loves is on display at the Rebecca Anstine Gallery in the Clark County Public Service Center through August 2018.

The 7 loves: storge, philia, agape, ludus, eros, philautia and pragma, are ancient Greek concepts. Respectively, they describe the love between the family or parents and child, close friendship, the love for strangers and the greater community, playfulness and flirtation, sexual love, the love towards ourselves, and the cultivation of long term love.

Artist Erika Bartlett has created seven images and seven poems based on the 7 loves. The images are abstracted photographs of the sky, light, and other passing situations. The exhibition has a calm and meditative quality. Bartlett’s art practice focuses on art as a tool for health and wellness.

You can learn more about Erika Bartlett at her website www.erikabartlett.com.

The Rebecca Anstine Gallery is named in honor of Rebecca Anstine, a local artist and founding curator of the public exhibit space in the Public Service Center. She served as a Clark County Arts Commission board member.

The Anstine Gallery is located in the Clark County Public Service Center sixth floor, 1300 Franklin St. The Anstine Gallery is open 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.

DALLAS (OR) - Dale Lynn Sherman, 48, has been sentenced to serve over 14 years in prison by Polk County Circuit Judge Norm Hill after being convicted of 29 counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree. Sherman, of Dallas, was convicted at a trial held June 20, presided over by Judge Hill and prosecuted by the Polk County District Attorney’s Office. The case was investigated by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Additional photos attached.

The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is pleased to announce the graduation of its 77th Basic Parole & Probation Officer Class on Friday, June 29, 2018 at the Oregon Public Safety Academy at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE in Salem, Oregon.  The event will begin at 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow after the ceremony.  Ross Caldwell of the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission will be the guest speaker.  All family and friends of students, supervisors, department heads and elected officials are welcome to attend.

The graduating students appreciate the family, friends and guests who make graduation an appropriate conclusion to their basic training at the Oregon Public Safety Academy.

Reception immediately following.

Roster of Basic Parole and Probation Class 77

Parole & Probation Officer Zeth Allen

Lincoln County Community Corrections

Parole & Probation Officer Patricia Arrington

Umatilla County Community Corrections

Parole & Probation Officer Eileen Bailey

Multnomah County Adult Community Justice

Parole & Probation Officer Nathan Biel

Lane County Parole & Probation

Parole & Probation Officer Megan Bubar

Columbia County Community Corrections

Manager Thanh Dang

Multnomah County Adult Community Justice

Parole & Probation Officer Amanda Dennis

Washington County Community Corrections

Parole & Probation Officer Robert Divine

Jackson County Community Justice

Parole & Probation Officer Maria Frank

Lake County Community Justice

Parole & Probation Officer Daniel Garcilazo-Madrigal

Umatilla County Community Corrections

Parole & Probation Officer Janine Grund

Deschutes County Adult Parole & Probation

Parole & Probation Officer Trevor Kendall

Lincoln County Community Corrections

Parole & Probation Officer Sarah Mosley

Deschutes County Adult Parole & Probation

Parole & Probation Officer Kari Page

Multnomah County Adult Community Justice

Parole & Probation Officer Amanda Parks

Deschutes County Adult Parole & Probation

Parole & Probation Officer James Rodriguez

Jefferson County Community Corrections

Parole & Probation Officer Molly Seel

Multnomah County Adult Community Justice

Parole & Probation Officer Rodney Sofich

Multnomah County Adult Community Justice

Parole & Probation Officer Phillip Trupe

 Lincoln County Community Corrections

Parole & Probation Officer Nicole Vann

Lane County Parole & Probation

Parole & Probation Officer Laura Vejar

Multnomah County Adult Community Justice

## Background Information on the DPSST ##

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) operates the Oregon Public Safety Academy which spans more than 235 acres in Salem. The Academy is nationally recognized for its innovative training programs and active stakeholder involvement. Eriks Gabliks serves as the Director, and Sheriff Jason Myers of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office serves as the Chair of the Board. The department implements minimum standards established by the Board for the training and certification of more than 40,000 city, tribal, county and state law enforcement officers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, fire service personnel, telecommunicators, emergency medical dispatchers and private security providers.

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

VANCOUVER, WA (June 21, 2018) — This Fourth of July Vancouver will be treated to the largest and most memorable fireworks display in the region. Fireworks at Vancouver’s Fireworks Spectacular presented by Columbia Credit Union will launch up to 500 feet high, cover a radius of 500 feet, and include unique special effects. The 20-minute show will feature about 25% more fireworks and 50% more big shells than last year.

“Vancouver’s Fireworks Spectacular will feature the best of the best fireworks available” says Heather Gobet of Western Display. “Western Display goes to tradeshows all across the globe to bring new and exciting fireworks from internationally-award winning manufacturers to our community.” Western Display produces over 350 shows annually, including some of the largest and most critically-acclaimed in the United States.

The fireworks show is designed on a computer program to synch with a custom playlist. Special effects will include component shells, tourbillions, hummers, flying dragons, crosettes, and more. “We are particularly excited about the new pastel colors and stain glass shells in this year’s show,” adds Gobet.

Fireworks will start promptly at 10:05pm. Vehicle access onsite will be restricted July 4th and security gates will be in place. We recommend community members start arriving after 6pm. Guests can ride C-TRAN for free with shuttles running every 15 minutes from two transit stations, Fisher’s Landing Transit Center and 99th Street Transit Center, with return service after the firework show.

Admission to Vancouver’s Fireworks Spectacular presented by Columbia Credit Union is free. Donations will be collected at the gates from those who wish to contribute to the event, with a portion of all proceeds supporting the Lower Columbia Veterans Coalition, a collective made up of the Community Military Appreciation Coalition (CMAC), Vancouver Barracks Military Association (VBMA), Combat Veterans International Chapter 9 (CVI), Buffalo Soldiers – Moses Williams Pacific Northwest Chapter (Buffalo Soldiers), and Special Forces Association (SFA).

This event would not be possible without the generous financial support of sponsors. The Historic Trust and the City of Vancouver thank presenting sponsor Columbia Credit Union; event media partners KGW, 98.7 The Bull, Comcast, and The Columbian; and community sponsors C-TRAN, Waste Connections, AMR, Vancouver Mall, Homewood Suites, and ADCO Printing & Graphics.

For more information please visit https://thehistorictrust.org/calendar/vancouvers-fireworks-spectacular/.

About The Historic Trust | The Historic Trust is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with the mission to inspire civic pride and economic vitality through education, celebration, and preservation of the Southwest Washington community's history. Learn more at www.thehistorictrust.org.

American Ambulance Association Star of Life

(Portland, Oregon, June 20, 2018) – The American Ambulance Association’s Stars of Life program celebrates the contributions of ambulance professionals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities or the EMS profession. This is the 19th year Stars of Life were honored from their communities and states across the country.  The multi-day event took place at Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC, June 11-13, 2018.

Robert Aberle, an Oregon Paramedic and seventeen year veteran of AMR’s (American Medical Response) Reach and Treat Team, is a 2018 recipient of a Star of Life from the American Ambulance Association (AAA).  AMR’s Reach & Treat Team responds to fallen hikers, climbers, and other injured enthusiasts in the wilderness areas of the Mt. Hood National Forest, providing advanced medical care in remote settings.

Aberle, a member of the Reach and Treat team since 2001, epitomizes the team’s dedication to caring for patients in the wilderness.  As just one example, on a Saturday in August 2017, a man who was canyon jumping into a river suffered serious injuries. Due to the remote location, his friend had to hike out of the canyon and then drive where he could get cell service to call 911.

The sheriff’s office activated a Search and Rescue (SAR) mission and established a command post.  AMR’s Reach and Treat Team (Aberle and his partner) prepared their gear, responded, deployed into the field (which took hours of hiking), and located the subject.  They were joined by personnel from Pacific Northwest Search & Rescue and Portland Mountain Rescue. Aberle, an Ultra Runner, was familiar with the rocky and remote location as he regularly trained there. This ultimately helped them reach the patient more quickly and treat him for his injuries. 

When rescuers realized it would take up to 10 hours to move the injured patient to a location where helicopter evacuation was possible, Aberle, his partner and other rescuers stayed in the canyon overnight with the patient, with Aberle monitoring his medical condition and keeping him warm. Aberle had immobilized his injuries, given him fluids, and also shared his MREs with him during the night.

“This was a more stressful Reach and Treat call,” says Aberle, “there was no cell phone and no radio communications to connect us with Clackamas County SAR or the Army National Guard.”  While daytime temps were in the 90’s, it was cold in the morning and they were all shivering. In the morning the team of rescuers moved down river to a location where the rescue helicopter could reach the patient.

SAR Coordinators began activation of a helicopter rescue Sunday morning. An Army National Guard Blackhawk showed up about 7:10 a.m.  However the crew realized they couldn’t drop the usual stretcher into the very deep canyon. The Blackhawk returned four hours later with a new crew who used the “forest penetrator” to evacuate the patient. The chopper lowered a flight medic down on the forest penetrator (a type of seat) to join the rescuers on the ground with the victim. Then medic and patient were hoisted to the Blackhawk helicopter.  The subject was subsequently airlifted to the hospital.  “All of our teams working together is what makes wilderness rescue work: Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office SAR, Portland Mountain Rescue, and Pacific NW Mountain Rescue,” says Aberle.

"At the American Ambulance Association's Stars of Life celebration, we pay tribute to those EMS professionals who make a difference in the lives of the patients and communities they serve," stated Mark Postma, AAA president. "Each Star is a vital part of our Nation’s public safety and public health network."  Aberle was one of 100 recipients to receive the 2018 Star of Life award – the highest honor an EMS professional can receive. 

Founded in 1979, the AAA's Mission is to promote healthcare policies that ensure excellence in the ambulance services industry and provide research, education and communications programs to enable its members to effectively address the needs of the communities they serve. The AAA represents ambulance services across the United States that participate in serving more than 75% of the U.S. population with emergency and non-emergency care and medical transportation services.

Each Star of Life award winner will also be profiled in a special edition of EMS Insider.

                                                                                                     ###

About American Medical Response

American Medical Response, Inc., America’s leading provider of medical transportation, provides services in 40 states and the District of Columbia. More than 28,000 AMR paramedics, EMTs, RNs and other professionals work together to transport more than 4.8 million patients nationwide each year in critical, emergency and non-emergency situations. AMR also provides fire services through Rural Metro Fire Department, www.ruralmetrofire.com, and managed transportation services through Access2Care, www.access2care.net. AMR is a subsidiary of Global Medical Response.

About AMR’s Reach and Treat Team

AMR’s Reach and Treat program has served residents of Clackamas and Multnomah counties since 1988.  The team was developed to provide advanced emergency medical services in the wilderness setting and is made up of EMT’s and Paramedics trained in mountain and swift water rescues. The Reach and Treat Team works cooperatively with multiple agencies during rescues of patients from mountains, canyons, cliffs, and other wilderness areas. 

ODF's Central Oregon District is responding to a fire that started overnight on state parkland in the Columbia River Gorge near Mitchell Point in Hood River County. The fire is estimated at less than one acre and is burning on steep terrain not far from the footprint of last year's Eagle Creek Fire. Spread of the fire has been stopped. Two ODF engines responded to the along with 2 fire engines from the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and an engine each from the City of Hood River Fire Department and the Westside Fire Department. Cause of the fire is not yet known.

The Oregon Department of Transportation temporarily closed the right eastbound lane of Interstate 84 in that area as a precaution. Please use care when traveling through the area.

Representatives from 21 States and Canada are gathering in Salem, Oregon next week for a three-day Summit (Monday June 25 – Wednesday June 27). The Summit is the first of its kind and will feature presentations from experts, government officials, and other school safety leaders regarding the effective implementation and operation of tip lines to prevent threats to student safety. Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum will welcome participants and kick off the Summit.

Oregon State Police will showcase the State’s school safety tip line SafeOregon. SafeOregon launched statewide in January 2017, and to date, generated over 1,450 tips. For more details visit www.safeoregon.com.  

“This summit will give the opportunity to share information first hand and learn from others with years of experience to help Oregon continue to improve our processes and tip line tool to be the best resource it can for our young Oregonians.”  Superintendent Travis Hampton.

Outcomes of the Summit include a blueprint for implementing and sustaining a tip line. OSP is partnering with RTI International and Summit participants to develop a framework to share with others interested in starting at tip line.

Pre-registration was required to attend this event.

Media is welcome to attend on Monday, June 25, 2018 until the conclusion of Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum’s welcoming. (Media needs to be set up by 12:30 PM.  We expect remarks to be done by 1:00 PM)

 About SafeOregon

SafeOregon is a statewide resource managed by Oregon State Police and is designed to accept confidential or anonymous reports concerning student safety through a phone call, text message, mobile application or the internet by students and other members of the public. The school safety tip line program is called SafeOregon. It became Law through HB 4075 (2016), as a result of recommendations from the Oregon Task Force on School Safety.

About RTI International

RTI International is an independent, nonprofit research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach—one that integrates expertise across the social and laboratory sciences, engineering, and international development. We believe in the promise of science, and we are inspired every day to deliver on that promise for the good of people, communities, and businesses around the world.  For more information, visit www.rti.org.

The Oregon State Marine Board will be holding an additional rule hearing in Clackamas to gather testimony on proposed statewide rules of operation for wake sports.  Oral testimony will be limited to two minutes per speaker. The hearing will be held at Clackamas Community College, McLaughlin Auditorium (M-121), 19600 Molalla Ave., in Oregon City on July 18 at 6 pm. 

This hearing, is in addition to three other previously scheduled hearings, will be held in different areas of the state:

• Deschutes County Services Building, Barnes Sawyer Meeting Room, 1300 NW Wall St. in Bend on June 28, beginning at 11 am;
• Jackson County Parks, Auditorium Room, 7520 Table Rock Rd. in Central Point on July 10, beginning at 6 pm; and,
• Oregon State Marine Board, Conference Room, 435 Commercial St. NE in Salem on August 15, beginning at 6 pm.

The proposed rule language amends OAR 250-010-0010 Definitions, to include terms used in Chapter 250 of Oregon’s Administrative Rules for wakeboarding and wake surfing; and adopts a new rule, OAR 250-010-0026 Wake Sport Operations, prohibiting wakeboarding and wake surfing within 200 feet of a dock, float, floating home, boathouse, designated boat moorage, floating restroom, or person in the water.  The rule also prohibits wakeboarding and wake surfing within 100 feet of a non-motorized boat. 

Written comments will be accepted until August 31, 2018 by 5 pm and can be submitted via email to .rulemaking@oregon.gov">osmb.rulemaking@oregon.gov  or by U.S. mail to: June LeTarte, Administrative Rules Coordinator, Oregon State Marine Board, 435 Commercial Street NE, Suite 400, Salem, OR 97301.  Comments via telephone will not be accepted.  

To view the proposed rule language, visit http://www.oregon.gov/osmb/info/Pages/Rulemaking-and-Public-Notices.aspx.

###

Two leaders at Mt. Hood Community College will participate in a four-day professional development seminar organized by the Oregon chapter of the American Association for Women in Community Colleges (AAWCC).

Lauren Smith, MHCC’s director of Academic Support and New Student Programming, and Bhaktirose Dawdy, the college’s coordinator of the STEP (SNAP Training and Employment Program) grant, will join other statewide community college leaders at the Oregon Institute of Leadership Development (OILD), held June 25-28. Smith and Dawdy were nominated by their colleagues at MHCC to attend OILD. The seminar will offer training in building teams, navigating institutional politics, and affecting organizational change.

“This event is important to me for many reasons, including the opportunity to ask questions on how to navigate leadership challenges and pitfalls, and the experience of learning from others who have forged paths ahead of me,” said Smith.

OILD was formed in response to AAWCC’s National Institute for Leadership Development to provide a regional opportunity for female community college presidents, deans, and leaders to learn from each other and build upon their skills. In 2006, OILD received the Model Award from the American Association of Community Colleges.

“As the current president-elect of the AAWCC-MHCC Chapter, I look forward to putting newly developed leadership skills into practice over the next year at the college and for many years to come,” said Dawdy.

Smith has worked at MHCC for 12 years in various capacities, including as AVID Coordinator and College Success Instructor. She has a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Portland and a Master of Library Science from Emporia State University.

Dawdy began working at the college in 2009. She has served in the areas of Workforce Development, Human Services, and Student Services at MHCC. She has a Master of Public Administration from Portland State University.

Yesterday evening, at around 7:00 p.m., Yamhill County Traffic Deputy Steve Wilkinson was monitoring traffic safety on Wallace Road near Alderman Road in Yamhill County.  This location is approximately 4.5 miles south of the City of Dayton.  He was facing southbound when a 2004 Honda motorcycle passed him at a high rate of speed.  Deputy Wilkinson attempted to stop the motorcycle using audible lights and siren but the rider failed to yield and increased speed, topping out at around 125 mph. 

Speeds decreased to around 50 mph as the motorcycle entered the City of Dayton, but the rider lost control of the motorcycle, entered a ditch and struck a fence in the 600 block of 3rd Street.  The driver, who was later identified as McMinnville resident, Alejandro Jacobo Gonzalez, 22 , was transported by ambulance to the Salem Memorial Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. 

A search of the crash scene uncovered a substantial amount of suspected methamphetamine in a container near the motorcycle. 

The crash is being investigated by the Yamhill County Multi Agency Traffic Team and is ongoing.  Charges relating to the attempt to elude police and the controlled substance found at the scene are expected to be filed against Gonzalez.

Portland, Ore. – Today, the Portland Business Alliance board of directors announced the endorsement of the $652.8 million regional affordable housing bond ballot measure, citing the need to increase the region’s housing supply and address home affordability, especially for low-income residents. The board also reaffirmed support of a proposed state constitutional amendment, which will give local jurisdictions more flexibility to work with nonprofit and private-sector partners on bond-financed projects. Both measures will appear on Portland-metro ballots in November.

If passed, the bond measure will fund the construction, acquisition and renovation of affordable housing units with capacity to house approximately 7,500 people. If the proposed state legislative referral to amend the Oregon Constitution also passes, the same bond revenue could house as many as 12,000 people, by allowing local governments to work with private-sector and nonprofit partners to leverage public funds and private efforts. The bond will cost homeowners 24 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. A majority of the bond revenue will benefit the region’s lowest-income households, those earning between 0 and 30 percent of the median family income. The revenue will be allocated among Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties based on assessed property value.

“Ensuring an adequate supply of affordable housing in our region is a preeminent workforce issue and a long-term priority of the business community,” said Sandra McDonough, president and CEO of the Portland Business Alliance. “We are proud to support this collective effort knowing that it will have broad positive impacts on our regional economy and the stability of Portland-area families. We look forward to working with the campaign team to pass both the bond measure and constitutional amendment this fall.”

In voting to endorse the bond measure, the Alliance board emphasized that Metro and local jurisdictions should maximize flexibility and competition in disbursing bond funds to ensure the greatest number of units. Additionally, the board said Metro, the government entity that is proposing the bond measure, should ensure ongoing evaluation, oversight and accountability over bond proceeds and the outcomes they generate. Additionally, given the rising property tax burden in the Portland-metro area, the Alliance board urged Metro and other local taxing jurisdiction to ensure all future tax requests are focused on urgent regional priorities.

The Alliance board of directors voted on proposed endorsements at its June 12 meeting after hearing the recommendation from its Housing Task Force, which reviewed the bond proposal. As with all Alliance endorsements, this proposal met required two-thirds vote of board members present.  

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The Portland Business Alliance

The Portland Business Alliance is Greater Portland’s Chamber of Commerce. With more than 1,900 members, we strive to promote and foster an environment in the Portland region that attracts, supports and retains private-sector jobs, spurs economic vitality and enables quality educational opportunities for the region's residents. Learn more at www.portlandalliance.com.

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinances #487 and #490 to establish conditions for the operation of short-term-rental dwelling units in unincorporated Lincoln County and to implement a licensing program to ensure compliance with those standards.  The ordinance went into effect on  December 1, 2016, with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office as the designated licensing authority.

For individuals or businesses operating dwelling units as short term rentals within the unincorporated areas of Lincoln County, a license is now required to continue operating in this manner.  There are a limited number of exceptions applying to hotels, motels, bed & breakfast inns, lodges, resorts, RV parks or campgrounds.  Any dwelling unit rented for any period of time less than 30 consecutive nights, must be licensed, unless it meets the criteria for any of the exceptions.

What this means for owners of short term rentals:

• You must fill out an application for a Short Term Rental License.
• You must pay the $250.00 initial application fee (yearly renewals are $125.00).
• You must have the property inspected by a compliance deputy.

The inspection is a simple viewing of the property to confirm the information provided on the application, to verify all signage requirements have been met, to verify sanitary services are being provided, and to verify local fire departments have been notified of pertinent rental information.  After a successful inspection, a maximum occupancy for the property is calculated and a license is issued to the owner of the property.

Under the ordinance, property owners are expected to make sure that renters are aware of and abiding by the established quiet time of 10:00 pm – 7:00 am.  They also must assure that tenants know the requirements for garbage service and approved parking areas.  Owners are also tasked with assuring that maximum occupancy is not exceeded. 

What this means for neighbors of short term rental properties:

• You will have access to 24/7 contact information for the owner and/or a local contact person designated for the property. 

• You will have complaint procedures.

More information regarding the Lincoln County Short Term Rental Licensing Program can be found on the Sheriff’s Office website, www.lincolncountysheriff.net, under short-term-rental-licensing.  The site contains a copy of the ordinance and all information and forms needed for owners and neighbors.  For additional questions, email us at iffstrlicensing@co.lincoln.or.us">sheriffstrlicensing@co.lincoln.or.us or call us at 541-265-4912.

Salem, Ore. Water samples taken on Tuesday, June 19 show cyanotoxins in the drinking water distribution system are below EPA Health Advisory guidelines.  However, water samples taken on Monday, June 18 show cyanotoxins in the water distribution system are above EPA’s Health Advisory guidelines for vulnerable populations.  Results from the most recent data will be available on the City’s website at www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

Salem’s Drinking Water Advisory applies to vulnerable populations including:

• Children under the age of six
• People with compromised immune systems or pre-existing liver conditions
• People receiving dialysis treatment, or other sensitive populations
• The elderly
• Pregnant women or nursing mothers
• Pets

The City of Salem extended the drinking water advisory on June 10 for at least two weeks to address concerns about the two-day lag between sampling and receiving test results. By keeping the drinking water advisory in place, the City hopes to reduce confusion by giving residents and water customers the opportunity to review the data and take the precautions they feel necessary for their families and their customers.

Drinking water filling stations are available while the advisory remains in effect. Residents need to bring their own clean and sanitary containers. Please visit www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx for the most current times and locations.

Residents with questions regarding City water, or in need of assistance, can contact Salem Public Works at 503-588-6311. For health information during the advisory, please call 2-1-1 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Licensed facilities, including restaurants and public pools, with questions can contact Marion County Environmental Health at 503-588-5346 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The water advisory has impacted many people in Salem and surrounding areas. The City of Salem continues to be thankful for the continued patience and support of the community, partnering agencies, and local volunteer groups.  

Additional information will continue to be distributed through the City’s social media accounts and website (www.cityofsalem.net).

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Actualización del aviso de agua de la Ciudad de Salem 21 de junio, 2018

Salem, Ore. — Los resultados de la muestra de agua recibidos martes, 19 de junio índico que el agua continúa ser seguro para beber. La presencia de cyanotoxins (toxinas) en el sistema de distribución de agua continúa estar a un nivel por debajo de la directiva del EPA. Aunque los resultados de las muestras tomadas lunes 18 de junio indican que el nivel de cyanotoxins (toxinas) está arriba del directica del EPA para población vulnerable. La Ciudad continúa proporcionando los resultados del agua en la página web cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

El aviso del agua para beber para la población vulnerable continua para los siguientes:

• Niños menores de seis años
  • Personas con un sistema inmunitario comprometido o con condiciones hepáticas preexistentes
• Personas que reciben tratamiento de diálisis u otras poblaciones sensibles
• Los ancianos
• Mujeres embarazadas o madres lactantes
• Mascotas

El 10 de junio la Ciudad de Salem extendió el aviso de agua por lo menos de dos semanas más para afrontar las preocupaciones sobre los dos días cuando las muestras son tomadas y los resultados recibidos.  En manteniendo el aviso de agua en su lugar, La Ciudad espera reducir confusión en dar a los residentes y los clientes de agua la oportunidad en revisar los datos y tomar las precauciones que ellos sienten es necesario para sus familias y clientes.

Estaciones de agua están disponibles mientras que el aviso de agua continúa, por favor vengan preparados con sus propios contenedores sanitarios.  Por favor visite nuestra página web (cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx) para los horarios y ubicaciones más actuales.

Los residentes que necesiten asistencia o tienen preguntas pueden ponerse en contacto con la Ciudad de Salem Public Works al 503-588-6311. Para obtener información médica durante el aviso, llama al 211 de 8 a.m. a 6 p.m. Los comercios de licencia, incluyendo restaurantes y piscinas públicas pueden ponerse en contacto con Marion County Environmental Health (Salud Ambiental del Condado de Marion) al 503-588-5346 lunes a viernes, 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.

El aviso del agua ha impactado a muchas personas en Salem y en las áreas cercanas. La Ciudad de Salem continúa ser agradecido por su paciencia y el apoyo de la comunidad, las agencias asociadas, y grupos de voluntarios locales.

Información adicional continuará siendo disponible en nuestras en nuestras redes sociales y página web (www.cityofsalem.net).

Portland, OR – June 21, 2018 – The Oregon Clinic’s shareholders recently elected a new leadership team, including a new President-elect and New Executive Vice President. Dr. Craig Fausel will be retiring after 34 years practicing gastroenterology and 11 remarkable years of service as President of The Oregon Clinic. Dr. Fausel will continue to serve as President until his retirement at the end of 2018. Dr. Richard Jamison, a general surgeon, will serve as President Elect for the remainder of 2018, and begin his three-year term as President of The Oregon Clinic in January 2019. 

“Handing over the responsibilities as The Oregon Clinic’s President will be much easier knowing we are transitioning into such capable hands,” said Dr. Fausel. “Not only is Dr. Jamison well prepared after many years on the Executive Committee, he is also deeply committed to the values and success of our organization.” 

Dr. Jill Shaw, an OB/GYN, was elected as a new Executive Vice President and member of the Executive Committee. Dr. Shaw has served on numerous committees since joining the clinic in 2012 and was recently Chair of The Oregon Clinic’s Marketing Committee. In her practice, she focuses on gynecology and gynecologic surgery. Dr. Shaw is spearheading a Provider Wellness Initiative to provide peer support. She is also the physician champion for the Patient Satisfaction Team. 

“Dr. Shaw is an invaluable addition to the Executive Committee,” said Dr. Fausel. “The whole committee will benefit from her experience and leadership.” 

Dr. Rhett Cummings, a pulmonary and critical care physician, and Dr. Michael Sheffield, a gastroenterologist, will both continue to serve as Executive Vice Presidents and members of the Executive Committee. Scot Gudger continues to serve as the organization’s CEO. 

The Oregon Clinic’s Board of Directors welcomed one new board member as well. Dr. Gilbert Klemann joins as the Board representative for Urology, replacing Dr. Sajal Dutta. The Oregon Clinic is grateful to Dr. Dutta for his thoughtful and engaged contributions during his two-year term.

The Oregon Clinic Board of Directors:

Dr. Brian Applebaum, Gastroenterology

Dr. Stephen Bader, Radiation Oncology

Dr. Jeff Bluhm, Pulmonology 

Dr. Jordana Gaumond, Surgery

Dr. Kim Heller, OBGYN 

Dr. Gilbert Klemann, Urology

Dr. Philippa Ribbink, Benefit Governor 

Dr. Roger Wobig, Ear Nose and Throat (ENT)

Dr. Ann-Marie Yost, Neurosurgery

The Board of Directors, consisting of shareholder physicians who represent different specialties and the Executive Committee, manages clinic-wide business decisions, admitting shareholders and new practices, approving the annual budget, health plan contracting, hospital and PCP relationships, and insurance purchasing. Board members are elected at the Annual Meeting and serve two-year terms.

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About The Oregon Clinic
The Oregon Clinic is the largest private specialty physician practice in Oregon. Our 270 providers give respectful, compassionate care at more than 550,000 patient visits each year. Founded in Portland in 1994, The Oregon Clinic is committed to delivering the highest quality patient care, practicing evidence-based medicine, and providing leadership for the healthcare community. We collaborate with primary care physicians and use a team approach to address health conditions at 60 specialty clinic locations across northwest Oregon and southwest Washington. Call 503-935-8000 or visit www.oregonclinic.com for more information.

Clackamas County Fair Talent Show Competition

Press Release for 2018

The Clackamas County Fair and Rodeo will once again be holding tryouts for the Talent Show performances at the 2018 fair. Fair dates run August 14th-18th this year.

The Talent Show Auditions will be held on Tuesday evening, July 17th starting at 5:00pm. They will be held in the Main Pavilion at the Fairgrounds.  They are open to all residents state-wide, but the top placing Clackamas County resident in each category will be moving on to the State competition. 

The categories are divided into Child (5-9 yrs.), Youth (10-17 yrs.) and Adult (18 years and older) with cash prizes awarded for the top three places in the Youth and Adult categories, and cash prizes, placement certificates, and ribbons given for the Child category.

The Talent Show Semi-finals for Youth will be held on Tuesday, August 14th, 2018 at 7:00pm. Semi-finals for Adults will be held on Thursday, August 16th 2018, at 7:00 pm. Finals for all three age groups will be held on Saturday, August 18th, 2018 at 7:00pm.  All the competitions will be held on the Grove Stage at the Clackamas County Fairgrounds.

Entry forms for both are due at the fair office by Friday, July 6th at 4:00pm. More information, rules and regulations, and entry forms are available at the fair website, www.ClackamasCountyEventCenter.com.  E-mail questions to events@wavecable.com">fairevents@wavecable.com, or call the fair office at 503-266-1136. Entry forms can also be picked up or dropped off at the Fair office in Canby at 694 Ne 4th Avenue between the hours of 9:00 am and 4:30 pm Monday through Friday.

False federal tax returns filed using the personal identifying information of thousands of Oregon and Washington taxpayers

EUGENE, Ore. – On Wednesday, June 20, 2018, Emmanuel Oluwatosin Kazeem, 35, of Bowie, Maryland and Nigeria, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for leading a vast conspiracy to steal identities and file fraudulent tax returns. He was ordered to pay more than $12 million in restitution and will be subject to deportation when released from prison.

“Emmanuel Kazeem orchestrated one of the largest tax fraud schemes in our nation’s history. The complexity of this case and the incredible effort by law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice cannot be understated,” said Billy J. Williams, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “I want to remind everyone that this case began when vigilant Oregonians notified the IRS when fraudulently tax returns were filed in their names. It only takes one tip to make a difference and bring down a complex criminal organization.”

“IRS-CI vigorously investigates criminals who band together to take advantage of our tax system. Today’s sentencing of Emmanuel Kazeem sends a strong message to those who seek to rob U.S. citizens of their hard earned tax dollars,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge, Brian Payne.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, in May 2013, a victim in Medford, Oregon notified the IRS that false federal and Oregon state tax returns were filed electronically using her and her husband’s personal identifying information (PII) including social security numbers and dates of birth.

An IRS investigation led to search warrants of residences in Illinois, Maryland, and Georgia and to numerous email and instant messenger accounts used by Kazeem and other co-conspirators. At a Chicago residence, agents seized approximately 150 prepaid debit cards and $50,000 in money orders. In Maryland and Georgia, agents seized more than 50 electronic devices, 40 money orders in amounts exceeding $29,000, $14,000 in cash and numerous prepaid debit cards containing over $12,000 in fraudulent tax refunds. The search warrants helped agents identify Kazeem as the leader and mastermind of the scheme.

The scheme resulted in the conspirators possessing stolen PII of more than 259,000 victims. Kazeem purchased more than 91,000 identities from a Vietnamese hacker that originated from an Oregon company’s private database. The company provided pre-employment and volunteer background checks for thousands of clients. Kazeem divided the identities into batches and shared them with other co-conspirators. They were in turn used to file fraudulent tax returns between 2012 and 2015.

In carrying out the scheme, Kazeem trained and directed his co-conspirators including his younger brother, Michael Oluwasegun Kazeem, to use stolen PII to obtain thousands of electronic filing PINs to bypass IRS authentication procedures. They acquired over 19,500 E-File PINS during the course of the conspiracy. Kazeem also used taxpayers’ PII to gain unauthorized access into many taxpayers’ IRS transcripts, which contain sensitive personal financial information. Conspirators also used pre-paid debit cards with the victims’ stolen identities to receive direct electronic tax refund deposits from the IRS.

In total, Kazeem was linked to 10,139 fraudulent federal tax returns attempting to get over $91 million dollars in refunds and successfully receiving over $11.6 million dollars. Refunds were withdrawn from the debit cards and at least 2,000 wire transfers totaling over $2.1 million dollars were sent to Nigeria. Over 700 of those wire transfers, totaling more than $690,000, were directly linked to Kazeem.

Kazeem used the conspiracy windfall to place a nearly $200,000 down payment on a newly constructed house and to purchase a $175,000 townhouse, both in Maryland. His average monthly credit card payment during 2012 to 2015 was over $8,300. Kazeem also attempted to use his ill-gotten funds to develop a $6 million dollar, 4-star hotel in Lagos, Nigeria.

In May 2015, Kazeem transferred the townhouse to his sister in Nigeria for $10 and included her on the deed to his Maryland residence, also for $10. He was arrested one day later.

IRS agents determined Kazeem had no verifiable sources of income between 2012 and 2015. In order to disguise the source of the fraudulent refunds, he listed sources of income from bogus employers in reports to both the IRS and immigration authorities. After entering the United States on a student visa from Nigeria, Kazeem engaged in marriage fraud to evade immigration laws. In April 2014, while leading the tax fraud scheme, he filed for naturalization under the Immigration and Nationality Act. Based on the false information provided to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, he was approved. The same year he personally participated in filing over 1,445 fraudulent federal tax returns and received over $3,385,000 from returns paid out by the IRS.

Kazeem was convicted by a federal jury on 19 counts, including mail and wire fraud, aggravated identity theft and conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, in Medford on August 4, 2017. Five other co-conspirators, Oluwaseunara Osanyinbi, Oluwatobi Dehinbo, Lateef Animawun, Oluwamuyiwa Olawoye and Michael Kazeem, previously received federal prison sentences for their roles in the same conspiracy.

This case results from a joint investigation by IRS-Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations with support provided by the Department of Treasury, Inspector General for Tax Administration, the U.S. State Department, and the Oregon Department of Revenue Policy and Systems Unit. The case is being prosecuted by Byron Chatfield and Gavin Bruce, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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We are currently experiencing a power outage at the corporate office which means this will impact the network for users at all Sites

Shortly after 4 p.m. today, firefighters responded to the 100 block of NW 209th Avenue on a report of a 3-year-old boy that had fallen from the second-story window of a single-family residence. 

Firefighters from Hillsboro Fire and Rescue arrived on scene within minutes to find the boy had landed on a concrete patio on the backside of the house. Firefighter paramedics assessed the boy’s injuries and determined them to be serious and life-threatening. Life Flight, who was already on standby, was then activated to the scene. The crews worked quickly to stabilize the boy and had him transported by MetroWest to a church parking lot nearby to meet up with the Life Flight helicopter. The boy was then flown to a local trauma hospital. 

Hillsboro Fire was assisted on scene by Life Flight, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Metro West Ambulance, and Washington County Sheriff’s Office. 

According to Safe Kids Worldwide, unintentional falls are the number one cause of non-fatal injury for children, and 38 percent of fall-related injuries in children are among kids 4 and under.  

Each year, emergency responders are dispatched to incidents involving children who have fallen out of windows. Most of these incidents occur during the spring and summer months when windows are open due to warmer weather. 

Firefighters encourage all families to remember that screens are meant to keep bugs out, not kids in and only allow windows to open 4 inches by installing a window guard or stop.

To learn more about window fall prevention visit www.stopat4.com. 

Contact information:
Bruce Montgomery, Public Information Officer – Hillsboro Fire, 503-615-6666 (pager)
Kim Haughn, Public Information Officer – TVF&R, 503-441-9324 (pager)

Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington to Bestow Highest Honor for 25 Gold Award Girl Scouts this Saturday, June 23, 2018

PORTLAND, Ore. – Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington (GSOSW) will recognize 25 recipients of the Girl Scout Gold Award in a special ceremony this Saturday, June 23, 2018, in Salem, Oregon in celebration of 102 years of the organization’s highest award.

Who: 25 Gold Award Girl Scouts, as well as Silver and Bronze Award Girl Scouts, their family and friends, plus staff, volunteers and media

What: Celebration of Girl Scouts changing the world and achieving Girl Scouting's highest honors with a keynote address from Girl Scout alumna and Gold Award recipient Elizabeth Dinh, evening news anchor for Fox 12 Oregon

When: June 23, 2018, at 1 p.m.

Where:  Willamette Heritage Center, 1313 Mill St SE, Salem, Oregon 97301

R.S.V.P.:  The event is by invitation only—interested media must R.S.V.P. by email to: mkenney@girlscoutsosw.org

On-site interviews: GSOSW’s Director of Communications, Sarah Shipe, and Director of Program, Sarah Brown, as well as Gold Award, Silver Award and Bronze Award Girl Scouts, will be available on-site during the day of the event for media interviews.

The Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor a Girl Scout can earn, acknowledges each recipient’s dedication to empowering and bettering herself while working to make the world a better place. Just 6% of Girl Scouts earn this prestigious award annually—it has been the pinnacle of the Girl Scout experience since 1916.

“We know that when girls have leadership opportunities when they are young, they are more likely to go on to become leaders in their communities and in their professional lives,” says Sarah Brown, Director of Program for GSOSW. “Through Girl Scouting, GSOSW’s Gold Award Girl Scouts have come to know that they have the ability to make a positive impact. The nature and quality of their Gold Award projects show us that these girls are the leaders of tomorrow, because they are leading today.”

Some of the Gold Award projects completed this year include:

Backpacks for Refugees—backpacks filled with school supplies for refugee students

Bilingual Lending Library— building a bilingual lending library at a local food pantry and collecting books to fill the shelves

Birthday Party Kits for Low-Income Youth— birthday party kits for low-income families, distributed to local shelters and service agencies

Girls Expo—free event to connecting young women to organizations and activities that align with their passions

Me Too—to increase awareness of teen sexual assault

Each Gold Award Girl Scout contributes a minimum of 80 hours to the community through her project, carrying out a plan that has sustainable and measurable, ongoing impact.

“As a Girl Scout alumna, I’m so happy to welcome this next group of talented and smart young women who now join me as a fellow Gold Award recipient,” says Elizabeth Dinh, evening news anchor for FOX 12 Oregon. “It took a lot of hard work and dedication to earn this prestigious award, and I know these Gold Award Girl Scouts will continue to overcome obstacles, pursue their dreams and change the world.”

Girl Scouts celebrates 102 years of Girl Scout Gold Award excellence, innovation, and visionary leadership and continues empowering future generations of girls to follow their dreams, discover their passions and make a global impact.

About Girl Scouts’ Highest Honors

To learn more about Girl Scouts’ highest honors, please visit: http://www.girlscoutsosw.org/en/about-girl-scouts/our-program/girl-awards/highest-awards.html.

About Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington

Our council serves 13,955 girls in 37 counties with the help of over 10,000 volunteers. The Girl Scout mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. Every opportunity in Girl Scouting develops these essential skills in an all-girl, inclusive, safe environment. For more information, please visit girlscoutsosw.org.

Applies to City of Albany, City of Millersburg and Dumbeck Lane Water District

Samples of finished City of Albany drinking water collected Monday, June 18, 2018, show no cyanotoxins in Albany’s drinking water. The City received these most recent test results today.

Due to recent harmful algae blooms in Detroit Lake and associated cyanotoxins found in the City of Salem’s drinking water, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) requested Albany sample its water intake on the Santiam River and finished drinking water from the Albany-Millersburg Water Treatment Plant. The finished drinking water samples show no cyanotoxins in Albany’s drinking water.

Sampling at the Albany-Millersburg Water Treatment Plant will continue at the request of the OHA. Beginning next week, Albany will also sample for cyanotoxins at the water intake for the Vine Street Water Treatment Plant and in the finished water from that plant. The Oregon Health Authority is writing new sampling rules for drinking water providers across Oregon in response to the cyanotoxins found in the North Santiam River and Detroit Lake. All sample results from both plants will be posted on the City of Albany website as soon as they are available.

The Albany water supply is regularly and frequently monitored according to OHA standards. We remain vigilant for any signs of contamination and will ensure that our customers are notified promptly if any problems are detected.

Customers with questions may contact the Albany Public Works Department at 541-917-7600.

If you would like to know more about harmful algae blooms and cyanotoxins, visit the Oregon Health Authority website: http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HealthyEnvironments/DrinkingWater/Operations/Treatment/Pages/algae.aspx.

Visit the City’s Emergency Management page at cityofalbany.net/em for more information including:

• Map of current alerts and hazards, • Tips on how to make an emergency plan, • The basics of building an emergency kit, • Sign up or follow the City’s information and notification systems (including Facebook, Twitter, Nixle, FlashAlert, and the Linn-Benton Alert reverse 9-1-1 system).

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in their annual Budget Hearing & Regular Board Business Meeting on Monday, June 25, 2018 in the Boardroom at the Parkrose District Office located at 10636 NE Prescott St., Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:30 pm. They will open the meeting with a Budget Hearing with time set aside for citizen comment. The Board will receive reports from the Superintendent’s Office, Technology and the Business Office. They will recognize a new Principal. Take action on consent agenda items, a revised 18-19 District Calendar, an Emergency IGA, Amend the 17-18 budget, Adopt the 18-19 budget and take action on a possible Pension Bond. The Board will report/discuss items of Board Business including: committee reports, color caucus, their final goals report and discuss next year’s elections for Board Chair & Vice Chair. Twice during each Regular Board Business meeting time is set aside to hear Citizen Comments, see policy attached to agenda for further details. The agenda is posted on the Parkrose School District Website at https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicHome.aspx?ak=1000205.

Girl Scout Statement About Families Separated at the U.S./Mexico Border

FROM GIRL SCOUTS OF THE USA (GSUSA)

GSUSA recently joined other members of Leadership 18—an alliance of CEOs from the nation’s largest and most influential human service nonprofits—in calling on the Trump administration to halt its “zero tolerance” immigration policy that separates children from parents who illegally enter the United States. The Leadership 18 statement asks the administration to “immediately stop this wrong and immoral policy” and to “take immediate steps to restore connections between” separated family members. In conjunction with this statement, GSUSA published a new Raising Awesome Girls piece offering parents and caregivers tips for how to address this difficult and frightening issue with their girls.

Talking to Kids About Children Being Separated from Their Families and Communities: http://bit.ly/2M9yRau 

FROM GIRL SCOUTS OF OREGON AND SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON (GSOSW)

The mission of Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington is to help girls understand and relate to the world around them. For this reason, Girl Scouts joined the other members of Leadership 18 to call for an end to the harmful practice of separating children from their parents. Preparing girls to lead can mean having difficult conversations about current events. The purpose of our Raising Awesome Girls piece is to assist parents and caregivers as they navigate these types of conversations with their girls.

Reynolds School District is offering a FREE summer fun and feeding program for kids ages one to eighteen starting Monday, June 25, 2018 through August 10, 2018 at various sites within East Multnomah County.  In partnership with the Summer Food Service Program through the Oregon Department of Education Child Nutrition Programs, Reynolds School District Nutrition Services is offering free meals, snacks, and fun activities to all kids without paperwork or signing up this summer.  Simply drop in at one of the many available sites listed to enjoy food, friends, and fun!  To find the nearest location to participate, see the attached list of sites, call 1-866-348-6479, or text FOOD to 877-877.  

PORTLAND, Ore. – Isaiah Lee Holt, 30, and Marjorie Livingston, 37, residents of Portland, were charged today in a five-count indictment alleging the couple engaged in a conspiracy to distribute marijuana and illegally purchased and possessed firearms.

Holt is charged with one count each of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and felon in possession of a firearm.

Holt made an initial appearance today in federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Paul Papak. He will appear at an arraignment and detention hearing on June 21, 2018.

Livingston is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana and one count of making false statements during the purchase of a firearm. She is expected to make her first appearance before a federal magistrate judge on or before June 22, 2018.

According to court documents, in February 2018, Livingston is alleged to have illegally purchased a firearm for Holt, a convicted felon, at a licensed federal firearms dealer located in Portland.

ATF agents obtained a search warrant on Holt and Livingston’s NE Portland residence. On April 4, 2018, while surveilling Holt and the residence, agents contacted Holt and conducted a search of his person. Holt possessed two cell phones, two bundles of cash, two sets of keys, and seven small baggies of cocaine weighing approximately 11.5 grams.

Later the same day, agents conducted a search of the residence where they found materials consistent with drug trafficking including digital scales, small baggies, and Inositol, an agent commonly used for “cutting” cocaine.  Subsequent searches of the residence revealed a locked safe containing $46,100 in cash, two large plastic totes containing approximately 14 pounds of marijuana, U.S. Postal Service mailing labels, a heat sealer and food saver bags. Agents also found a Ruger AR-556 rifle, a Taurus 9mm pistol and a loaded M&P Shield .40 caliber firearm with an attached Crimson Trace laser.

Searches conducted of Holt and Livingston’s phones revealed numerous text and picture messages referencing marijuana and bank deposits. Messages were exchanged with phone numbers in North Carolina, Georgia, Texas and Florida. These messages included photos of bulk marijuana, shipping receipts, and bank deposit receipts.

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

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June 20, 2018

Healthcare-Associated Infections Advisory Committee meets June 27

What: The quarterly public meeting of the Healthcare-Associated Infections Advisory Committee (HAIAC)

When: June 27, 1-3 p.m. A 10-minute public comment period is scheduled at 2:50 p.m.; comments are limited to five minutes.

Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 1B, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. Conference call line: 877-873-8018, access code 7872333.

Agenda: Outbreaks update; infection control infection and response (ICAR) tools; nursing home prevalence study; injection practice and needle use project update; TAP assessment progress; discussion; public comment.

Background: OHA provides oversight and support for the mandatory reporting of health care-associated infections in Oregon via the HAI program. The board meets on a quarterly basis to make recommendations to OHA regarding infection measures reportable by health care facilities. More information is available on the program's webpage at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DiseasesConditions/CommunicableDisease/HAI/Prevention/Pages/Meetings.aspx.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use the 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 material in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Roza Tammer at 971-673-1074, 711 TTY, or oza.p.tammer@dhsoha.state.or.us">roza.p.tammer@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

PORTLAND, Ore. – Martin J. Shain, 61, of Seattle, Washington, pleaded guilty today to one count each of conspiracy to defraud the U.S. and tax evasion.

According to court documents, between June 2012 and March 2015, Shain and Joseph Colello, a former employee of the Oregon Department of Energy’s (ODOE) Business Energy Tax Credit (BETC) program, maintained a secret business relationship whereby the two would personally profit from the sale and purchase of Oregon BETCs.

Shain and Colello devised a plan whereby Colello would give Shain the names of BETC sellers and interested buyers—information he had access to as an ODOE employee. Colello would then contact the sellers and buyers to negotiate credit transfers, but made it appear as though the Shain had brokered the deals. Shain created a company in the name of his relative in order to receive commission payments from the sellers of the tax credits and to conceal their earned income from the IRS. Shain charged sellers a 1-2% fee, undercutting brokers who typically charged a 10% fee for facilitating similar transfers. Colello would receive a portion of this fee as a kickback.

Between 2012 and 2015, Shain deposited over $1.3 million in income from the commissions charged to sellers of BETC credits. He would transfer a portion of these funds into a personal account from which he would purchase and issue biweekly cashier’s checks payable to Colello. Over the course of the conspiracy, Shain purchased and issued approximately 58 cashier’s checks to Colello or Colello’s girlfriend. In total, Colello received more than $300,000 in bribe payments for his role in the scheme. Shain failed to report more than $1.34 million in income received brokering tax credit sales on four income tax returns between 2012 and 2015.

Colello pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to engage in monetary transactions in property derived from specific unlawful activity, one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, and one count of filing a false income tax return on March 15, 2018. On April 3, 2018, he was sentenced to 60 months in prison and was ordered to pay more than $81,000 in restitution.

Shain faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on each charge. He will be sentenced on September 20, 2018 before U.S. District Court Judge Robert E. Jones.

The case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation and the FBI and prosecuted by Claire M. Fay and Scott E. Bradford, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

# # #

WASHINGTON— The Bureau of Land Management announced today that it is seeking proposals for new public off-range pastures that provide a free-roaming environment for wild horses removed from Western public lands while also allowing for regular public visitation.

Today’s announcement is part of the BLM’s effort to address the growing overpopulation of wild horses and burros on public rangelands. As of March 1, 2018, the wild horse and burro population on public lands was estimated at 81,951 animals, which is more than triple the number of animals the land can support in conjunction with other legally mandated land uses. This chronic overpopulation increases the risk of damage to rangeland resources and raises the chances of starvation and thirst for animals in overpopulated herds.

New public off-range pastures are a more cost-effective and efficient approach to managing costs for animals in holding while providing the public with opportunities to view wild horses in a natural setting. The pastures will also provide opportunities for the public to adopt animals into private care in order to help reduce the number of animals in holding.

One or more public off-range pasture contracts will be awarded and each pasture must accommodate at least 100 to 500 wild horses. Selected participants will be contracted by the BLM to provide humane care for up to 10 years.

Proposals will be accepted through July 10, 2018, from the following states: Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Oklahoma and Wyoming.

 All applicants are required to possess a Dun and Bradstreet number authorizing them to conduct business with the Federal Government.  These can be obtained at www.dnb.com.  Applicants are then asked to access the System for Award Management, at www.sam.gov. There is no fee involved.

To obtain the bid solicitation: (1) go to www.fedconnect.net; (2) click on “Search Public Opportunities”; (3) under Search Criteria, select “Reference Number”; (4) enter the solicitation number “L15PS00182”; and (5) click Search” and the solicitation information will appear. The solicitation form describes what applicants should submit and where to send application information. 

For assistance, please contact Kemi Ismael at (202) 912-7098 or kismael@blm.gov. Ms. Ismael can assist with general questions and/or coordinate a meeting between applicants and a local BLM contracting officer and small business specialist. A list of frequently asked questions with additional information is available at:  www.blm.gov/whb.

To learn more about adopting a wild horse or burro online, visit the new Online Corral at https://wildhorsesonline.blm.gov/.

-BLM–

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The agency’s mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. Diverse activities authorized on these lands generated $75 billion in sales of goods and services throughout the American economy in fiscal year 2016—more than any other agency in the Department of the Interior. These activities supported more than 372,000 jobs.

Salem, Ore. Water samples taken on Sunday, June 17 show cyanotoxins in the drinking water distribution system continue to be below EPA Health Advisory guidelines. However, water samples taken on Monday, June 18 show cyanotoxins in the water distribution system are above EPA’s Health Advisory guidelines for vulnerable populations.  Results from the most recent data will be available on the City’s website at www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

Salem’s Drinking Water Advisory applies to vulnerable populations including:

• Children under the age of six
• People with compromised immune systems or pre-existing liver conditions
• People receiving dialysis treatment, or other sensitive populations
• The elderly
• Pregnant women or nursing mothers
• Pets

The City of Salem extended the drinking water advisory on June 10 for at least two weeks to address concerns about the two-day lag between sampling and receiving test results. By keeping the drinking water advisory in place, the City hopes to reduce confusion by giving residents and water customers the opportunity to review the data and take the precautions they feel necessary for their families and their customers. 

Drinking water filling stations are available while the advisory remains in effect. Residents need to bring their own clean and sanitary containers. Please visit www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx for the most current times and locations. 

Residents with questions regarding City water, or in need of assistance, can contact Salem Public Works at 503-588-6311. For health information during the advisory, please call 2-1-1 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Licensed facilities, including restaurants and public pools, with questions can contact Marion County Environmental Health at 503-588-5346 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The water advisory has impacted many people in Salem and surrounding areas. The City of Salem continues to be thankful for the continued patience and support of the community, partnering agencies, and local volunteer groups.  

Additional information will continue to be distributed through the City’s social media accounts and website (www.cityofsalem.net).

Actualización del aviso de agua de la Ciudad de Salem 20 de junio, 2018

Salem, Ore. — Los resultados de la muestra de agua recibidos domingo, 17 de junio índico que el agua continúa ser seguro para beber. La presencia de cyanotoxins (toxinas) en el sistema de distribución de agua continúa estar a un nivel por debajo de la directiva del EPA. Aunque los resultados de las muestras tomadas lunes 18 de junio indican que el nivel de cyanotoxins (toxinas) está arriba del directica del EPA para población vulnerable. La Ciudad continúa proporcionando los resultados del agua en la página web cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

El aviso del agua para beber para la población vulnerable continua para los siguientes:

• Niños menores de seis años

       • Personas con un sistema inmunitario comprometido o con condiciones hepáticas preexistentes

• Personas que reciben tratamiento de diálisis u otras poblaciones sensibles

• Los ancianos

• Mujeres embarazadas o madres lactantes

• Mascotas

El 10 de junio la Ciudad de Salem extendió el aviso de agua por lo menos de dos semanas más para afrontar las preocupaciones sobre los dos días cuando las muestras son tomadas y los resultados recibidos.  En manteniendo el aviso de agua en su lugar, La Ciudad espera reducir confusión en dar a los residentes y los clientes de agua la oportunidad en revisar los datos y tomar las precauciones que ellos sienten es necesario para sus familias y clientes.

Estaciones de agua están disponibles mientras que el aviso de agua continúa, por favor vengan preparados con sus propios contenedores sanitarios.  Por favor visite nuestra página web (cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx) para los horarios y ubicaciones más actuales.

Los residentes que necesiten asistencia o tienen preguntas pueden ponerse en contacto con la Ciudad de Salem Public Works al 503-588-6311. Para obtener información médica durante el aviso, llama al 211 de 8 a.m. a 6 p.m. Los comercios de licencia, incluyendo restaurantes y piscinas públicas pueden ponerse en contacto con Marion County Environmental Health (Salud Ambiental del Condado de Marion) al 503-588-5346 lunes a viernes, 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.

El aviso del agua ha impactado a muchas personas en Salem y en las áreas cercanas. La Ciudad de Salem continúa ser agradecido por su paciencia y el apoyo de la comunidad, las agencias asociadas, y grupos de voluntarios locales.

Información adicional continuará siendo disponible en nuestras en nuestras redes sociales y página web (www.cityofsalem.net).

The National Institute for Governmental Purchasing or, NIGP: Institute for Public Procurement, represents over 3,000 member agencies and 15,000 procurement professionals around the world and has recently selected the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) to receive the 2018 NIGP Innovation Award. DOC Procurement and Contracts employees, Matt Shoemaker and Craig Heilman, created an easy-to-use Microsoft Excel tool that now enables the Department to save countless hours and reduce errors when staff are completing contract documents.

Public Works Public Improvement contracts typically have between eight and nine required documents to complete a solicitation. Historically, these documents have been recreated for each individual project, which increases the potential for human errors and missing information; this can create unintentional and unnecessary time and cost burdens. The DOC team automated the entire process by combining the documents into a single file allowing them to complete one Excel tab which then fills out each of the required forms of approximately 50 total pages. DOC has now seismically shifted a fiscally-dependent procedure that used to take many hours, to managing this complicated process in less than one hour. 

The Innovation Award is one of NIGP’s most prestigious achievements, recognizing DOC’s innovative approach to solving modern problems. NIGP’s Knowledge and Management Committee was fascinated by DOC’s innovative approach to improving internal processes.

Mr. Shoemaker, a Procurement and Contracts Specialist, will accept the award and speak on the topic at the annual forum in Nashville, TN in August.   

DOC employs 4,700 staff members at 14 institutions, two community corrections offices, and several centralized support facilities throughout the state. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of over 14,700 adults sentenced to more than 12 months of incarceration, and direct or indirect supervision of 33,000 offenders on felony supervision in the community. DOC is recognized nationally among correctional agencies for providing adults in custody with the cognitive, education, and job skills needed to become productive citizens when they transition back to their communities.

The Straight Grain Newspaper and Vancouver Barracks in 1918

Vancouver, WA – On Thursday, July 12, the Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) will be hosting their next First Thursday Speaker Series event, which is sponsored by Clark County’s Historic Preservation Commission. Our speaker, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Assistant Curator, Meagan Huff, will highlight a little known aspect of life at the Vancouver Barracks - The Straight Grain, the official newspaper of the Army post during the World War I era. This program will use newspapers from the Fort’s archives to shine a light on the everyday lives of soldiers at the Spruce Mill in 1918. General admission is $5.00, seniors and students are $4.00, children under 18 are $3.00, and the evening is FREE with a CCHM membership. Doors open at 5:00pm, the event begins at 7:00 pm. The museum encourages attendees to get there early, as it is first-come, first-served seating.

In the fall of 1918, the Vancouver Barracks was home to thousands of soldiers operating the Spruce Production Division’s massive Spruce Mill, which milled lumber from the forests of the Pacific Northwest to be sent to Allied aircraft manufacturers. The Straight Grain was an integral part of their daily routines, and it didn’t just report the news – it was also a place where soldiers could submit their stories, jokes, poetry, artwork, cartoons, and opinions.

Brad Richardson, CCHM’s Executive Director, said, “We’re very excited to work with Meagan and Fort Vancouver’s National Parks Service to bring this fascinating piece of military and local area history to light. Our community partners are constantly uncovering pieces of Clark County history, and as the County’s museum, we’re thrilled to provide an opportunity for these stories to be heard and discussed.”

Meagan Huff – She grew up in Vancouver, Washington, and has worked at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site since 2010. She holds a Master in Arts degree in Museology and a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Art History from the University of Washington. She works in the national park’s Cultural Resources Division, which manages a museum collection of 2.8 million historic and archaeological artifacts.  

CCHM is honored to be able to share this thoroughly unique window into Clark County’s past with our community.

For more information, please contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or by email at events@cchmuseum.org.

###

The Clark County Historical Museum is operated by the Clark County Historical Society (CCHS), which is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization governed by a Board of Trustees. CCHS works in partnership with Clark County and the City of Vancouver to operate the museum in a 1909 Carnegie Library building. Our vision is to facilitate a more educated and connected community through meaningful engagement with history. CCHM is located at 1511 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98660 – just off the I-5 and Mill Plain Blvd. Daily hours of operation: Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. For further information, call 360-993-5679, email info@cchmuseum.org, or visit cchmuseum.org. CCHM’s First Thursday Speaker Series is sponsored by Clark County’s Historic Preservation Committee.

Bring your family this Saturday morning and be part of the second annual Muscle Hustle Fire Truck Pull in Old Town Troutdale on the Historic Columbia River Highway.

There will be free activities for kids. Take pictures of your child on a real Fire Truck. Let them take part in the kid’s course for a prize or visit the kids zone for fun activities.

A limited number of team openings are available at no cost for groups of friends and family members who want to challenge teams participating in the Muscle Hustle.

Starting at 10am teams from local emergency responders, sports teams, businesses and family groups will compete for the best time pulling a 33,000 Fire Truck for the best time on a 50ft course.

The Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) will benefit from this event.

TIP is a volunteer organization that helps local citizens in crisis after a traumatic event.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faEOC_sCF10

EUGENE. Ore. – Christopher Adam Strahan, 22, a resident of Corvallis, Oregon, was indicted today for threatening a campus shooting at Oregon State University (OSU).

The indictment alleges Strahan threatened to shoot classmates at OSU in a series of tweets on February 27, 2018. He is charged with a single count of making threatening communications in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 875.

Strahan was previously detained as a flight risk and danger to the community when he made his initial appearance in federal court on a criminal complaint on March 27, 2018. Strahan will be arraigned on the indictment on June 27, 2018 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jolie A. Russo.

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

Anyone who witnesses imminent threats of violence in any form made via internet or another means should call 9-1-1 immediately. Non-emergency tips can be submitted by contacting the FBI’s Portland Field Office at (503) 224-4181 or visiting the SafeOregon website at www.safeoregon.com.

# # #

Happy Valley residents brushed aside with unkept promises by Clackamas County, again

Yesterday, Clackamas County / North Clackamas Parks and Recreation District (NCPRD) approved a budget that includes taxing Happy Valley residents. This comes after repeated promises in letters and website announcements that “Starting July 1, NCPRD will no longer be assessing its permanent district rate within Happy Valley.”

The City is monumentally disappointed with Clackamas County going back on promises it made to the City and its residents to honor the withdrawal from NCPRD and not tax property inside Happy Valley.

Not only is the City shocked by this latest development, it disputes a recent decision from the Department of Revenue to rescind its previous approval of the City’s withdrawal from NCPRD. The City was transparent throughout the process and all parties, including Clackamas County, were in agreement on the steps to withdraw.  Only now at the 11th hour has the Department of Revenue, at the County’s request, inserted itself into the process and sought to direct the outcome.

The most concerning aspect of these actions is that they come on the heels of a local election in which the voters of Happy Valley overwhelmingly approved a levy to support City-run parks and recreation services. The City referred the levy to the voters with the understanding and promise from Clackamas County that it would not tax Happy Valley residents after July 1, 2018.

 “Once again, the county isn’t listening to what our residents want. The levy to fund park maintenance and operations locally was approved by voters at 72% and residents are eager to move forward on local park and recreational services. The action of Clackamas County in contesting the withdrawal now ignores the will of the voters and does not have the best interests of their Happy Valley constituents in mind,” said Mayor Lori Chavez-DeRemer.

It is important to understand that the City followed the process that Clackamas County Counsel advised it to follow. NCPRD was established by the County under Oregon Revised Statute Chapter 451. In that same chapter, the statute directs cities that wish to withdraw from such districts to follow a process outlined in ORS 222.524. This is the process the County identified, and the City followed, including notice to residents and a public hearing. Leading up to the decision and during the public hearing, the Council received comments from many residents who urged the City Council to withdraw from NCPRD. 

After the withdrawal ordinance was adopted, Clackamas County and the Department of Revenue acknowledged the City’s authority to withdraw and approved the process the City followed. The County repeatedly promised it would “not stand in the way” and that “Starting July 1, NCPRD will no longer be assessing its permanent district tax rate within Happy Valley.” On numerous occasions, the County admitted in court that the City properly withdrew from NCPRD.

Only now is the Department of Revenue, at the County’s request, rescinding its previous approval, a move the City considers a gross overstep of the department’s authority.

“As we are currently involved in a legal dispute with NCPRD over the return of Happy Valley SDC dollars, it is no surprise that this split is contentious. However, we do not believe the Department of Revenue should be involved and further complicate this legal issue,” said Mayor Chavez-DeRemer.

The City of Happy Valley will continue to forge ahead in developing Parks and Recreation services, taking into account the input and efforts contributed by community members and city staff over the last year.

“It’s frustrating, to say the least, that this is only surfacing at the eleventh hour. Our citizens and staff have contributed a tremendous amount of work to date to make this program successful for the community. We know the community is excited to see what Parks and Recreation services will look like in Happy Valley and we are still eager to provide these services. In the end, we want what is best for our residents. I think that should be the goal of any government entity. We will continue to serve our residents in the best way we can, providing them with the service they deserve and pay for through their taxes,” said Mayor Chavez-DeRemer.

About Happy Valley

Happy Valley is a community of over 20,000 residents, located 15 miles southeast of Portland, OR. The city was founded in 1965 and is a thriving community with businesses and residents moving to the area for quality schools, beautiful scenery, and growing opportunities.

Vancouver, Wash. – Starting this summer, Clark County drivers will have additional help maintaining their vehicles and reducing water pollution caused by vehicle leaks.

A new program, Don’t Drip and Drive, aims to reduce vehicle leaks by working with participating repair shops to offer free visual leak inspections, along with a 10 percent discount for repairs, up to $50. 

In addition, the Watershed Alliance will hold “leak check” events where residents can find out if their vehicle has a leak and learn about repair options from an third party auto technician.

Vehicle leaks often are a sign of larger problems. Ignoring them can lead to inconvenient breakdowns, major engine damage and more expensive repairs. Vehicle leaks also are a significant source of water pollution. A 2013 Puget Sound study estimated that 66 percent of oil pollution entering Puget Sound comes from small vehicle leaks and drips.

When it rains, storm runoff picks up leaked fluids and carries them to storm drains, and on to streams, rivers and lakes. Some fluids are transported in liquid form, creating the notorious rainbow sheen, but most attach to sediment that accumulates in estuaries, stream beds and lake bottoms. Based on the Washington State Department of Ecology’s computer model used in the Puget Sound study, more than 600,000 quarts of oil leak into Clark County watersheds each year.

When this pollution reaches waterways, fish, other aquatic life and their habitat are degraded. Leaked motor oil contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, engine metals and various additives.

“Motor oil is one of the most toxic components of stormwater runoff that we have studied to date,” said Jen McIntrye, a Washington State University aquatic toxicologist. “Even brief exposures cause heart problems in developing fish.”

While direct effects of vehicle leaks on human health are difficult to estimate and few studies exist, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are known carcinogens. Vehicle leaks also contaminate puddles where children play and dogs drink.

Stormwater Partners of SW Washington, a coalition of jurisdictions, agencies and nonprofit organizations working to improve water quality, is sponsoring Don’t Drip and Drive. A Clark County Clean Water Restoration Fund grant from the Lower Columbia Fish Recovery Board is paying for the program.

“Don’t Drip and Drive will be a win for drivers and our waterways,” said Eric Lambert, Clark County Clean Water Outreach staff and facilitator for Stormwater Partners.

For more information on Don’t Drip and Drive, including a list of participating repair shops, upcoming leak check events and other details, visit www.FixThoseLeaks.org.

June 13, 2018

What: A public meeting of the Out of Hospital Births Prior Authorization Review Workgroup.

When: Wednesday, June 20, 10 a.m. to noon. A public comment period will be held at approximately 11:30 a.m.

Where: Portland State Office Building, Conference Room 1D, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland.

The public also may attend by conference call at 888-278-0296, participant code 843163.

Agenda: Welcome, introductions and process overview; background and workgroup scope and goal; current process for out-of-hospital births prior authorization; challenges with and reflections on PA process; public comment; summary and next steps.

Background: The Out of Hospital Births Workgroup met in 2016-2017 to discuss the Oregon Health Plan's coverage of childbirth in settings other than hospitals. The workgroup presented recommendations to the Oregon Health Authority in summer 2017. OHA is convening this small group to undertake the workgroup's third recommendation, "Prior Authorization Process Review," with the goal of optimizing safety while improving the efficiency of the process. Questions and public comments may be submitted to OOHB.Workgroup@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 Heather Johnson at 503-508-8276, 711 TTY or heather.n.johnson@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

This news release was updated June 20, 2018, at 10:44 a.m., to correct the telephone number.

Three days of chef competitions, demos, and tastings benefiting Oregon Food Bank & Parkrose School District

Portland, OR (June 20, 2018)—Here in Portland, we embrace our international reputation as the foodie city. We are known for our vibrant restaurant scene, award-winning chefs, and artisanal, locally sourced ingredients. And it’s true: We care about what we eat, where it comes from, what it pairs with, what imprint it leaves behind, and of course, an Instagram-worthy plate. In Portland, farm­–to–table isn’t just a restaurant concept—it’s a way of life.

At Portland Monthly’s inaugural Cowabunga All-You-Can-Eat Food Festival, we’ll celebrate everything we love about living—and eating—in Portland. With three days of tastings, demos, and competitions featuring all-star chefs, brewers, winemakers, distillers, farmers, and ranchers, it will be a weekend like no other.

Cowabunga generously supports Oregon Food Bank and their mission to eliminate hunger and its root causes through public policy, local food systems work, nutrition and garden education, health care screening, and innovative programming.

“We can’t fight hunger in our community without amazing partnerships with local farms, producers, grocers, restaurants, and Portlanders who care about ending food insecurity,” says Amber Lindsey, Director of Marketing and Communications at Oregon Food Bank. “We look forward to the inaugural festival dedicated to celebrating and bringing all of us together to feed the human spirit.”

Held at historic Rossi Farms, Portland’s oldest working farm, located off 122nd avenue in the Parkrose neighborhood, guests will enjoy the incredible mecca our state has to offer and meet the farmers who help make Portland’s culinary scene one of the richest on the planet.

Plus, the weekend’s headlining event held on Saturday night, will resurrect the annual Parkrose Community Barn Bash. In collaboration with the Rossis, Cowabunga’s Barn Bash will feature seven of the city’s freshest brewmasters serving up two of their favorite ales, beef-tastic bites from Portland’s favorite chefs, live entertainment, and down-home fun. At the end of the night, we’ll crown Barn Bash’s People’s Choice and Judges’ Choice, Best Beer, Best Bite, and Best Pairing.

The finale is a perennial favorite: Country Brunch, Portland Monthly’s long-running all-star tribute to the city’s key weekend pastime. As always, some of our best morning masters will serve iconic bites, while the Bloody Mary Smackdown unfolds in all its gory, invigorating glory. Brunch destinations like Besaw’s, La Moule, and new Simpatica project La Luna Cafe join cult favorites like shell smashers Fried Egg I’m in Love. The “cup de grace,” of course, is our annual Bloody Mary smackdown, this year featuring rising newcomers like Palomar, Hey Love, and Tanner Creek alongside Renata and Red Star.

Schedule of Events:

Seared benefiting Oregon Food Bank
Friday 7/13: 7:30–10:30 p.m.

In collaboration with Zeph Shepard, rebel butcher and owner of Proletariat Butchery, Friday night’s VIP dinner will celebrate the bounty of Oregon in a spectacular in-your-face dining experience. Featuring beef aged, rubbed, and cooked over three open-flame pits; welcome oysters provided Jaret Foster and Mona Johnson of Tourant and PDX Social Club; and farm-fresh sides created by Shauna Galante of Secret Language, paired with Glenfiddich, Oregon pinots, and more.

Farm Out benefiting Oregon Food Bank
Day Tastings, Workshops, and Demos
Saturday 7/14: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

At Farm Out, guests will tie their aprons and join Portland’s top butchers, bakers, chefs, and farmers to experience farm–to–table firsthand. Featuring chef demos every 30 minutes across the Full Moo, Veg Out, and Good to the Grain tents, plus tastings, cookbook signings, and farm-fresh products to take home.

Barn Bash benefiting Parkrose School District
Saturday 7/14:  7–10:30 p.m. (VIPs at 6:30 p.m.)

At Saturday night’s Barn Bash, Portland’s top chefs will highlight their best BBQ bites, from burgers and brisket to tripe tacos and fully loaded nachos. Plus, we’ll bring the freshest brewmasters in the city, to serve up two of their favorite ales for guests to taste and vote for their favorites. Featuring Gateway Brewing, Pono Brewing, Breakside, and more, plus whiskey tastings, live music, vintage Westerns, and cow roping, Barn Bash promises down-home fun for all!

Family-Friendly Country Brunch benefiting Oregon Food Bank
Sunday 7/15: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. (VIPs at 10:30 a.m.)

A one-of-a-kind family funday and celebration of the city’s best brunch, featuring a breakfast-in-bed photo booth, lawn games, live music, and our 7th annual Bloody Mary Smackdown.

Participating Chefs & Restaurants: 

Proletariat Butchery, Tournant, Secret Language, Ringside Steakhouse, Carman Ranch, Umi Organic, Domingo Brothers, Sugar Pine Drive-In, Nate Tilden of Bar Casa Vale, DOC, Taqueria Nueve, South Fork, Tanager Farms, Fox and Bear, Food Historian Heather Arndt Anderson, Rubinette, Raven and Rose, Smokehouse Tavern, Scott Dolich of Park Kitchen, Taqueria Nueve, Yakuza, Pono Brewing, Breakside Brewing, Gateway Brewing, Little Beast, Fried Egg I’m in Love, Besaw’s, La Moule, Nonna, La Luna Café, Red Star Tavern, Hey Love, Proof Reader, Renata, Palomar, and Tanner Creek Tavern.

Cowabunga is generously supported by our founding partners:

Toyota, Rossi Farms, Effen Vodka, Cambia Health Solutions, Laura’s Lean Beef, Moonstruck Chocolate, Pelican Brewing, Painted Hills Natural Beef, SakeOne, Glenfiddich, Fournier Group, Carman Ranch, Wild Roots Vodka, SilverFire Stoves, Certified Angus, Lagunitas Brewing Company, Big Green Egg, Country Natural Beef and Oregon Country Beef, Jason Mendell of Cascade Sotheby’s, Adelsheim, Alit Wines, Bergström Wines, Colene Clemens Vineyards, Adega Northwest, Le Cadeau Vineyard, Oregon Food Bank, and the Parkrose Community of Portland.

Ticket prices range from $20 to $300 and can be purchased at cowabunga.pdxmonthly.com.

Media Contact:
Emily Wyant
ewyant@sagacitymedia.com
971.200.7053

About Portland Monthly

Portland Monthly chronicles, challenges, and celebrates one of America’s most innovative cities, inspiring readers to explore and shape the vibrant metropolis we call home.

About Oregon Food Bank

Oregon Food Bank works to eliminate hunger and its root causes ... because no one should be hungry. Oregon Food Bank believes that hunger starves the human spirit, that communities thrive when people are nourished, and that everyone deserves healthy and fresh food. Oregon Food Bank helps feed the human spirit of 740,000 people through a food distribution network of 21 regional food banks serving Oregon and Clark County, Washington. Oregon Food Bank also leads statewide efforts to increase resources for hungry families and to eliminate the root causes of hunger through public policy, local food systems work, nutrition and garden education, health care screening, and innovative programming. Find out how to feed the human spirit at oregonfoodbank.org.

About SagaCity Media

SagaCity Media Inc. is the parent company of the preeminent lifestyle media brands in Portland, Seattle, Houston, Sarasota, Aspen, Vail, and Park City. In their respective markets, Portland Monthly, Seattle Met, Houstonia, and Sarasota produce the largest-selling magazines, most-visited local lifestyle websites, and industry-dominating numbers of engaged social media followers. SagaCity also proudly produces web content and publications elsewhere, many of them award-winning, for conventions and visitors bureaus or lodging associations in such markets as Portland, Seattle, Washington state, Bellevue, Tacoma, Galveston, Aurora (CO), and Vancouver (WA).

BEVERLY BEACH, Ore. - Repair work is scheduled for June 27 on the bridge spanning Spencer Creek at the campground entrance to Beverly Beach State Park. Work will occur 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The repairs are required to keep the bridge in compliance with Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) standards.

Workers will be grinding down asphalt as part of the repair process. Campground users should expect some construction noise as a result. The grinding is expected to persist for the entire construction window, but will conclude by 2 p.m.

ODOT will have flaggers to control traffic near the bridge work site. Expect short delays if you are traveling to or from the campground during construction times.

Park staff ask that all incoming campers respect the 4 p.m. check-in time that day to help eliminate extra congestion.

The June 27 work is the first phase of a larger construction project at the park. Future phases will be communicated as soon as details are available. The project will be completed by end of summer.

For more information, call the Beverly Beach State Park office 541-265-4560.

MILWAUKIE, Ore. June 20, 2018 — Portland General Electric and the City of Milwaukie announced their plans today to partner on the addition of a new Electric Avenue charging hub in the heart of Milwaukie’s downtown by the end of this year. This announcement comes in the midst of this week’s Roadmap 2018, the nation's largest and most advanced annual conference on electric and smart mobility.

The new charging hub is part of PGE’s Transportation Electrification plan that is designed to advance Oregon’s transition to a clean energy future with new electric transportation options for car owners and mass transit riders.

“Transportation electrification is key to a sustainable future and providing robust charging facilities is a great first step for us to take towards the realization of our climate action plan,” said Mayor Mark Gamba. ”We’re excited to partner with PGE in a variety of ways as we pursue our aggressive goal of being a Net Zero City by 2040.”

Transportation is the largest source of carbon emissions in Oregon, making an electrified transportation system critical to a carbon-free economy.

“This new charging hub is part of our larger effort to increase access to electricity as a transportation fuel for our entire region,” said Maria Pope, president and CEO of PGE. “Under the leadership of Mayor Gamba, the City of Milwaukie is taking progressive steps to address climate change. Partnerships like ours demonstrate how the whole community, working together, will create a clean energy future.”

The newest Electric Avenue will be on Highway 99E between SE Jackson and Monroe Streets, a location strategically selected for its high use and visibility to expand access to and awareness of the benefits of driving electric. With six ports, charging options will be available for any type of EV. Charging fees will be $5 for a quick charge and $3 for a standard charge. An optional charging membership will also be available at $25 per month, waiving the per charge fees. Construction is scheduled to begin late summer.

Five additional charging hubs are called for in PGE’s plan, which was approved earlier this year by the Oregon Public Utility Commission. Approval of the plan followed Governor Kate Brown’s executive order issued in November 2017, which established a goal of 50,000 registered electric vehicles in Oregon by 2020.

PGE’s original Electric Avenue — now located at its World Trade Center headquarters — was designed to pilot innovative station layouts, signage and pricing structures. Since its installation in October 2015, it has charged more than 1.25 million miles of driving, avoiding more than 515 metric tons of CO2.

# # #

About Portland General Electric Company: Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) is a fully integrated energy company based in Portland, Ore., serving 877,000 customers in 51 cities. For more than 125 years, PGE has been delivering safe, reliable energy to Oregonians. With 2,900 employees across the state, PGE is committed to building a cleaner, more efficient energy future. Together with its customers, PGE has the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the U.S. For more information, visit PortlandGeneral.com.

About City of Milwaukie: Nestled along the banks of the Willamette River and steeped in history, Milwaukie enjoys the comforts of a small town, as well as the benefits of its close location to Portland. Woven through the fabric of the community is the value placed on ingenuity. Milwaukie prizes creativity to get things done by finding innovative solutions and residents embrace originality to find new ideas that better the community. These values can also be found in the city’s robust and thriving business community. Milwaukie is home to several of Oregon’s largest and most iconic employers. To learn more about Milwaukie, visit milwaukieoregon.gov.

Oregon Heritage Commission has awarded nearly $60,000 in grants to nine museums throughout the state. The grants will help fund a variety of projects including collection preservation, visitor education and heritage tourism. Award amounts ranged $4,500 - $8,000.

Funded projects:

• Clackamas County Historical Society, in Oregon City, for collections inventory and shelving at the Stevens Crawford House.
• Deschutes County Historical Society, in Bend, for the “Cruisin’ 97” exhibit and geotagging tourism project.
• Fort Rock Valley Historical Society and Homestead Museum for repairing the Belltable Home at Fort Rock museum complex.
• High Desert Museum, near Bend, for the “By Her Hand” exhibit, and other historic and contemporary indigenous art.
• Mount Hood Cultural Center and Museum, in Government Camp, to organize and digitize a historic photograph collection.
• Oregon Jewish Museum, in Portland, to place online finding aids that link to the museum’s object collection.
• Oregon Nikkei Endowment, in Portland, to preserve the WWII Minidoka Incarceration Site collection at the Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center.
• Umatilla County Historical Society, in Pendleton, to install the “Umatilla Gold: The History of Wheat in Umatilla County” exhibit.
• Willamette Heritage Center, in Salem, to preserve and create a finding aid for over 800 plans created by architectural firm Payne, Settecase and Smith.

The museum grant program is offered annually by the Oregon Heritage Commission, part of the Oregon Heritage program at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The grant program began in 1965 when only 24 organizations were eligible for the program.

The Oregon Heritage Commission works to secure, sustain and enhance Oregon’s heritage. The Commission sponsors heritage initiatives that educate the public about the value of heritage and celebrate the state’s diversity.

The Oregon Heritage Commission consists of nine members appointed by the governor and nine agency advisors. Members are chosen from state agencies and statewide organizations, and represent a diverse geographical and heritage background.

To learn more about the Oregon Museum Grant or the Oregon Heritage Commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.gill@oregon.gov">Kuri.gill@oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

On June 19th, 2018 at about 12:35 pm Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a crash involving a motorcycle and an SUV.  The crash occurred near the intersection of Dever-Conner Road and Interstate 5 in Linn County. 

The preliminary investigation revealed a Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Eric Wayne Clanfield, age 42 of Dallas, was traveling west on Dever-Conner Road.  A Infiniti Sport Utility Vehicle, driven by Kristin Dawn Holcomb, age 44 of Albany, was traveling east on Dever-Conner Road and was attempting to turn left onto the southbound on ramp to I-5.  The SUV turned in front of the motorcycle which resulted in a nearly head on collision.  Clanfield was deceased at the scene due to the injuries he sustained in the crash.  Holcomb was not injured.

Jefferson Fire Department, Linn County Sheriff’s department, Oregon Department of Transportation arrived on scene to assist. 

Dever-Conner Road was closed for about 3 hours.

At the start of summer, the City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services is announcing the return of its weekly water quality testing on the Willamette River.

On Wednesday, June 20, 2018 at 10 a.m., Environmental Services invites the news media to observe water sampling at one of the most popular river entry points - the Portland Boathouse Dock by the Hawthorne Bridge that on warm days is filled with people swimming, boating, paddle boarding and sunbathing.  Portland Fire & Recue will share safety tips for safe recreation.

WHEN: 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 20

WHERE: Portland Boathouse Dock on the east end of the Hawthorne Bridge.

WHO:  Environmental Services’ monitoring staff and Portland Fire & Rescue

Thanks to the Big Pipe project, the Willamette River is largely free of sewer overflows and resulting bacteria, making the river clean for swimming, boating and other recreation.

How clean? Each week during summer months, Environmental Services tests for E. coli bacteria as well as water temperature at five popular public recreation spots. The tests reflect E. coli from all sources – people, pets and wildlife. They are conducted on Wednesdays and posted by Friday morning – in time for weekend activity. The public is invited to Check the Rec to view test results.

Last year, 100 percent of test results were well within state health guidelines.

“The Big Pipe has made a big difference. As sewage overflows have dropped, interest in recreation has increased and through Environmental Services’ testing program, people can see test results for themselves,” said Environmental Services Director Mike Jordan. “Environmental Services’ testing program began because people asked: Is the river water clean enough to swim and play? The testing program shows that the answer is ‘yes.’”

Environmental Services and Portland Fire & Rescue offer these additional river tips: Many factors affect safety on the river, including temperature, currents, and debris, as well as people’s ability in the water. Cold water is good for migrating salmon and other fish, but water below 70 degrees can be uncomfortable and unsafe for people.  People can find out river temperature in addition to bacteria levels through www.portlandoregon.gov/bes/checktherec.  

While bacteria levels are the biggest health concern for swimming and other direct recreation, the public also is advised to be alert for trash, or any discoloration such as a blue-green sheen, which could indicate toxic blue-green algae. Those instances are rare as well. The state issues algae advisories. Environmental Services issues advisories in case of bad bacteria readings or sewage releases.

Check the Rec at www.portlandoregon.gov/bes/ChecktheRec.  View test results for this season as well as last year’s complete test results and other Willamette River information.

This news release is online at www.portlandoregon.gov/bes. 

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The Bureau of Environmental Services provides city residents with programs to protect water quality and public health, including wastewater collection and treatment, sewer construction and maintenance, stormwater management, and stream and watershed restoration. For news updates, follow @BESPortland on Twitter and visit www.portlandoregon.gov/bes/news.

SALEM, Oregon - Water samples taken on Saturday, June 16, by the City of Salem, show that Salem's water continues to be safe to drink.  The City of Salem is scheduled to replace the Oregon National Guard water distribution sites with city equipment at the following locations beginning 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 20 unless otherwise requested.

        Chemeketa Community College, Brown Parking Lot , 4000 Lancaster Dr. NE, Salem (access from 45th Avenue NE & Satter Drive NE)

        Former Chevrolet Dealership, 5325 Denver St., Turner

        Woodmansee Park, 4629 Sunnyside Rd. SE, Salem

        Wallace Marine Park, 200 Glen Creek Rd. NW, Salem

The Oregon National Guard provided more than 60,000 gallons of water in support of Marion County and the City of Salem since being activated June 7, and are scheduled to depart at 8:00 p.m. June 19.

"We are proud to have worked together in order to support our local community during this time of need," said Stephen Bomar, Director of Public Affairs, Oregon Military Department.

For the most up to date water advisory information please visit  https://www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service jointly announced today the award of the first timber sale contract under the Good Neighbor Authority (GNA).

The sale is part of the Paddock Butte GNA restoration project on the Fremont-Winema National Forest and represents the first ODF-administered timber sale under the GNA. The Paddock Butte timber sale was awarded to Ore-Cal Land Development, LLC of Klamath Falls, and the contract signed on June 6.

Governor Kate Brown and Pacific Northwest Regional Forester Jim Peña signed a Master Agreement in March 2016 to execute the Good Neighbor Agreement in Oregon. Under GNA, which was authorized by Congress in the 2014 Farm Bill, state agencies work in partnership with the USDA Forest Service to implement restoration projects on federal lands.

Chad Davis, Director of the ODF Partnership & Planning Program, said that GNA is an integral component of the department’s Federal Forest Restoration Program, first initiated by the state legislature in 2013.

“GNA allows us to significantly ramp up our partnership with the U.S. Forest Service to increase the pace, scale and quality of restoration. The Paddock Butte project is a prime example of the work needed to improve forest health to increase the resiliency of our fire-prone forests to uncharacteristic wildfire and invasive species,” Davis said.

The Paddock Butte timber sale is 637 acres of ponderosa pine on National Forest System lands in Klamath County on the Bly Ranger District and within the ODF Klamath-Lake District.  The sale area is surrounded on three sides by private land and is located north of Gerber Reservoir.

The Paddock Butte GNA project is more than a timber sale. It permits activities to treat insect and disease-infected trees, reduce hazardous fuels, and other treatments to restore or improve forest, rangeland and watershed health, including wildlife habitat.

“Paddock Butte embodies the spirit of GNA,” said USDA Forest Service Lakeview and Bly District Ranger Mike Ramsey. “It’s an area where restoration and fuel reduction work is already occurring on private and other government lands. If the Forest Service land was left untreated, that has the potential to intensify the effects of a wildfire and undermine all the valuable restoration work being done by other landowners.”

Typically timber revenues on federal lands would return to the federal agency.  A benefit to GNA is that ODF can administer the timber sale and use the resulting funds to recover their administrative costs and fund additional restoration activities, including invasive weed treatments and juniper removal.

Public in the area may see increased traffic in the area during the timber harvest and subsequent fuel reduction, including the application of prescribed fire, and other restoration treatments.

The Paddock Butte sale and restoration project was identified as a high priority treatment area by the Klamath-Lake Forest Health Partnership, the Oregon Department of Forestry's Klamath-Lake District, and the Fremont-Winema National Forest.                    

For more information on the Paddock Butte project or the Fremont-Winema National Forest, please visit www.fs.usda.gov/fremont-winema, follow the forest on Twitter @FremontWinemaNF or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/R6FWNF.

For more information on the Oregon Department of Forestry: www.oregon.gov/ODF/pages/index.aspx, on Twitter via @ORDeptForestry or on Facebook via @oregondepartmentofforestry.

UPDATE:

Linn County Sheriff Jim Yon reports that after further investigation into the death of Trapper Thompson, the death was found to have occurred within the city limits of Corvallis.  The Corvallis Police Department is continuing the investigation and anyone with additional information is asked to call  Detective Pete Dunn with the Corvallis Police Department at (541) 766-6433.    

ORIGINAL RELEASE:
LINN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPUTIES INVESTIGATE DEATH

Linn County Undersheriff Paul Timm reports on June 10, 2018, at 4:46 a.m., Linn County Sheriff deputies responded to a death. Trapper Thompson, 22, of Lebanon, was taken to Good Samaritan Emergency Room in Corvallis by friends from an unknown location in Linn County. It was reported Thompson did not have a pulse when they arrived at the hospital.

Linn County Sheriff’s Deputies are still investigating the death and the cause is not known at this time.

Anyone with information about Trapper Thompson or his whereabouts on the night of June 9, or morning of June 10, is encouraged to call Detective John Lovik II at (541) 967-3950.

WHEN:           Friday, June 22, 2018 at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE:         Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue Training Center

12400 SW Tonquin Road, Sherwood, Oregon

WHO:             The Office of State Fire Marshal, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, U.S. Forest Service, Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon State Parks, Clackamas Fire District #1, Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Oregon Burn Center, the Oregon Humane Society, and Oregon licensed fireworks wholesalers will provide information on legal fireworks in Oregon, where fireworks may be used, and safety education and enforcement efforts. Live fireworks demonstrations are scheduled. 

WHAT:           Keep it legal, keep it safe

• Legal fireworks in legal places
• Live demonstration – Safer use of fireworks

June 23 opens the season for fireworks sales in Oregon. Legal fireworks may be purchased only from Oregon permitted fireworks retailers and stands. The Office of State Fire Marshal has issued approximately 722 retail fireworks permits, and 138 display permits. Oregon law prohibits possession, use, or sale of any firework that flies into the air, explodes, or travels more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground, without a permit issued by the OSFM. Fireworks commonly called bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers are ILLEGAL in Oregon without a permit.

All fireworks are prohibited on all Oregon beaches, in parks, and campgrounds, and on all federal public lands.

Illegal fireworks can be expensive. Officials may seize illegal fireworks and charge offenders with a class B misdemeanor which could result in a fine of up to $2,500 per violation and a civil fine of up to $500. Those who misuse fireworks or allow fireworks to cause damage are liable and may be required to pay fire suppression costs or other damage. Parents are also liable for fireworks damage caused by their children.

Case #18-3703

On 6/17/18 at 8:27p.m. Police and Fire were dispatched to the intersection of SE Harrison St. and Highway 224 regarding an Auto vs Bicycle traffic crash.

According to witnesses, the cyclist was traveling west along SE Harrison St. where he entered the intersection at Highway 224 against a red light. A vehicle traveling East along Highway 224 entered the intersection on a green light and hit the cyclist at approximately 30mph.

Through the investigation it was determined that the cyclist was not in the crosswalk and entered the intersection against the traffic signal. All parties remained on-scene during the course of the investigation and cooperated. The traffic signal showed no signs of malfunction as observed by officers.

The cyclist was transported to OHSU where he is being treated with non life-threatening injuries. No citations were issued at this time.

                                                                                             #####

July 7, 2018, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the third annual Water & Boat Safety Day is at Bowman Park.  Albany Fire Water Rescue Team will be providing proper life jacket fittings, submerged car water rescue demonstrations, and the Linn County Sheriff's Marine Patrol will be offering boat inspections.  AFD will also be giving boat rides for children under the age of 13.  

Food will be offered for monetary donations.  Donations will support the Albany Firefighters Community Assistance Life Vest program. We will also be raffling an overnight stay at Great Wolf Lodge and an AFD engine ride to school.  For more information please contact Albany Fire at 541-917-7700.  

VANCOUVER, Wash.—The Port of Vancouver USA and Hawthorne Hydroponics LLC have signed five-year lease for the port’s Centennial Industrial Building (CIB), located at 3300 Northwest 32nd Avenue, Vancouver.

The port’s Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the lease at the board’s June 19 meeting.

Hawthorne Hydroponics is a subsidiary of the Hawthorne Company; both are subsidiaries of ScottsMiracle-Gro, a publicly traded company that sells lawn and garden products in the consumer market.

Earlier this month, ScottsMiracle-Gro purchased Sunlight Supply Inc., the first company to locate in the port’s Centennial Industrial Park. CIB – only a few blocks away from Sunlight Supply – provides an ideal location for Hawthorne to consolidate and improve efficiencies for its operations in the region.

“Scotts has spent 150 years helping people express themselves on their piece of earth and we look forward to deepening our relationships here,” said Melanie Vodnick, Manager of Real Estate for ScottsMiracle-Gro.

Hawthorne is leasing 5.6 acres from the port, including all interior space at CIB and surrounding parking and loading areas. Income to the port for the initial five-year lease term will be $3 million plus leasehold excise tax. Hawthorne has the option to extend the lease for two additional, three-year terms beyond the initial five-year term.

The company expects to initially employ at least 50 people at the facility, where employees will manufacture plastic containers and air filters used in a variety of industries, including indoor and urban gardening.

The port worked with CBRE brokers Jake Bigby and Rob McEachern to bring Hawthorne to CIB.

About Centennial Industrial Building
Centennial Industrial Building (CIB) was built to fulfill the port’s mission of economic benefit to its community and realize the vision of the port’s Board of Commissioners, which recognized the need for state-of-the-industry facilities to promote job growth in our community. In 2016 the commission decided to invest port funds in CIB, providing a flexible, sustainable facility to support industry and workers in Southwest Washington.

About ScottsMiracle-Gro
The ScottsMiracle-Gro Company is the world's largest marketer of branded consumer products for lawn and garden care. The Company's brands are among the most recognized in the industry. The Company's Scotts®, Miracle-Gro® and Ortho® brands are market-leading in their categories, as is the consumer Roundup® brand, which is marketed in the U.S. and certain other countries by Scotts and owned by Monsanto. We maintain a minority interest in TruGreen®, the largest residential lawn care service business, and in Bonnie Plants®, the largest marketer of edible gardening plants in retail channels. The Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, The Hawthorne Gardening Company, is a leading provider of nutrients, lighting and other materials used in the hydroponic growing segment. For additional information, visit us at www.scottsmiraclegro.com.

                                                                                                                                                      – POV –

The Port of Vancouver USA is one of the major ports on the Pacific Coast, and its competitive strengths include available land, versatile cargo handling capabilities, vast transportation networks, a skilled labor force and an exceptional level of service to its customers and community. For more information, please visit us at www.portvanusa.com.

Marion County Community Services is recruiting volunteers for the annual County Fair, which will be held Thursday, July 12, through Sunday, July 15, at the Oregon State Fairgrounds.

Whatever your interest, ability, or how much time you have to offer, there is a way for you to make a difference at this year’s fair. “Volunteers are the fuel behind the fair,” said Tamra Geottsch, Marion County Community Services Director.  “It is their skills and talents that make the fair fun for the entire community. Volunteers have an opportunity to help with fair set-up, interacting with kids and adults on fair exhibits, assisting judges with competitions, and greeting fair-goers. Volunteers make this county a community.”

The fair showcases the local, social, and fun side of Marion County. Public competitions celebrate an individual’s achievements from apple pie to Lego contests, art, photography, quilts, floral, and more.  Major attractions include two nights of big name entertainment, a rodeo, petting zoo, and carnival.

“This is a great opportunity for corporate employees who have volunteer service hours to support their community,” said Judy Christensen, Marion County Fair Volunteer Coordinator.  “Retirees, students, individuals from local organizations such as service clubs and churches are all welcome.”  The fair attracts individuals of all backgrounds.

To volunteer at the Marion County Fair, contact Judy Christensen at (503) 584-7722 or sign up at http://marioncountyfair.net/volunteer/. Volunteers receive free admission and a Marion County Fair volunteer t-shirt.

Marion County Fair Details

Hours:
Thursday, July 12, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Friday, July 13, and Saturday, July 14, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Sunday, July 15, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Location: Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St. NE, Salem, OR 97303

Admission: Adults (12 & over) $9, Seniors (62 & older) and Youth (ages 6-11) $5, Youth 5 and under free. 
Thursday, July 12, Seniors (62 & older) and Military and Veterans (with ID) are free all day; family members of Veterans get in free from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Sunday, July 15, all Youth 12 and under are free.

Visit www.marioncountyfair.net for more information about the 2018 Marion County Fair. 

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 p.m., Friday, Sept. 14, 2018.

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 2019.

News Release & Media Invite from Metro West Ambulance

What: Cardiac Survivor meets Chain of Survival Rescuers-Recognition Event

When: June 20, 2018 at 3:00 pm

Where: Metro West Ambulance, 5475 NE Dawson Creek Drive, Hillsboro

On May 23rd, Colby Clay was struck in the chest by a lacrosse ball while on the playing field. Immediately complaining of shortness of breath-he went unresponsive. As his team mates, coaches, athletic trainers quickly recognized his critical state-911 was called, CPR started, quickly followed by use of an AED.  Within a few minutes, EMS including ambulance, fire and police, arrived to continue treatment ultimately transporting him to Legacy Emanuel hospital.

On Wednesday, June 20th at 3 pm at Metro West Ambulance in Hillsboro, Colby and his family will have an opportunity to meet and thank so many of his rescuers from all the links in the Chain of Survival that saved his life. Many whom he’s already thanked and many he’ll be meeting for the first time!

Joining us to celebrate a life saved will be Colby’s rescuers including his team mates who started CPR and called 911 to his coach and athletic trainers who placed the AED and delivered the first shock, to the 911 Emergency Dispatcher, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Deputy to the Paramedics and EMT’s from Metro West Ambulance and Hillsboro Fire and Rescue all the way to the his physician, ED and ICU staff from Legacy Emanuel Hospital and Trauma Center. In addition, all of his rescuers will be presented with Chain of Survival challenge coin in recognition of saving a life.

For Colby, the strike to his chest by the lacrosse ball caused commotio cordis, a rare but potentially catastrophic phenomenon, which causes a lethal disruption of the heart rhythm at a critical time during the cycle of the heart beat causing ventricular fibrillation and sudden death. This condition has a high mortality rate because most victims don’t get early access to effective CPR and defibrillation-the two key interventions that can save lives.

We know that all links in the Chain of Survival are critical. We also know that awareness and education in recognizing an emergency is so important. Here in Washington County, when 911 is alerted and CPR and/or AED's are used, survival rates for patients found in shockable rhythms ( Ventricular fibrillation/Ventricular tachycardia) soars to 45%. The national average is around 37%. For commotion cordis, with bystander CPR and AED, survival is 35%, without it, under a 20% survival.

Available for interview:

Cardiac arrest survivor Colby Clay and his mother Amy Clay

Lacrosse team coach, players, athletic trainers

EMS crews & PIO’s from Metro West Ambulance, WCSO, Hillsboro Fire, WCCCA

Dr. Barbosa from Legacy Emanuel Hospital

Marion and Polk counties are in the midst of conducting a Community Health Assessment and are calling upon community members for local perspectives on health.

The Community Health Assessment occurs every five years and is an opportunity for Marion and Polk counties to partner in gaining a better understanding of the community’s health. Compiling information from community forums, an online survey, and local healthcare data, the assessment creates a snapshot of the community’s health and quality of life. The findings will be used to create a Community Health Improvement Plan, which prioritizes critical health areas for strategic intervention. The data will also be published for public use and shared with local leaders to inform local policy and planning.

An online survey is currently live and will be available in Marion and Polk counties until June 29, 2018. The survey addresses individual experiences of accessing healthcare as well as other areas that impact health, such as quality housing and transportation. The survey takes about six minutes to complete and is available in both English and Spanish. All answers are anonymous and confidential.

Take the survey online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2RJZP8Z.

For more information about the Community Health Assessment process, visit http://www.co.marion.or.us/HLT/communityassessments.  

The Oregon State Parks Department and the member-based non-profit organization Oregon State Parks Foundation have cut the ribbon to open the Experience Center at Cottonwood Canyon State Park, together with the first group of students to use the facility, the Cottonwood Crossing Summer Institute.

Cottonwood Canyon State Park, an 8,000-acre park that straddles the John Day River in eastern Oregon, is the second largest park in the State Park system, and one of the newest.

The Experience Center is the heart of the $1.6 million project, which will ultimately include eight cabins, a restroom and shower facility, and a new group camping area. The grand opening for the full Experience Center complex is scheduled for September 18.

The Oregon State Parks Foundation raised $800,000 for the Experience Center build-out, furthering the member-based organization’s mission to help support the Oregon State Parks through additional funding, to enhance the visitor experience and educational opportunities in State Parks.

The overarching goal of the Experience Center project is to provide a space for both an outdoor school and a gathering place for groups coming to Cottonwood Canyon.

At a modest 1,700 square feet, the sustainably designed multi-use Experience Center will include classroom space, interpretive displays, activity and meeting areas, a park-specific library, and relaxation and contemplation space. There will be a shaded outdoor area with a fireplace, and walkways connecting the Experience Center, campsites, and cabin areas.

The space will provide an opportunity for residential outdoor learning, regional activities, environmental education, and cultural events that will serve the community, the region, and state park visitors from across the state and nation.

The Experience Center was built using a variety of sustainable building practices, including smart site design, and sustainable material and solar energy usage.

Notably both the interior and exterior have extensive Juniper finishes. Juniper is seen by many as a water-hoarding nuisance in the region; the Juniper used in this project was harvested locally and resulted in a truly beautiful design aesthetic. The building demonstrates that Juniper is a viable commercial construction element that yields great results.

About the Oregon State Parks Foundation

The Oregon State Parks Foundation is a state-wide, member-supported, non-profit partner of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. The Foundation is dedicated to raising funds to enhance and preserve special places and experiences in Oregon’s State Parks.

You may not know that NOT A SINGLE PENNY of state taxes has gone to support the State Parks since 1998. Instead, user fees cover about 55 percent of the operating costs, and the Oregon Lottery covers about 44 percent. Hence, your parks need your support by becoming a member of the Foundation.

Since 1995, the Foundation has supported many vital projects such as restoring Vista House at Crown Point, helping to renovate five Oregon Lighthouses, and preserving the Kam Wah Chung & Co Museum.

The Foundation strives to connect all Oregonians with their State Parks, to enrich the visitor experience through interpretation and education, and to promote an active and healthy lifestyle.

To learn more about the Foundation, and to become a member, go to: www.oregonstateparksfoundation.org.

On Wednesday, June 20, the Portland Water Bureau will begin using its groundwater wells in the Columbia South Shore Well Field to ensure adequate water supply to its customers. As a result of careful planning, Portland is fortunate to have access to two excellent water sources that allow us to be prepared to meet the range of supply and demand conditions that occur in the Portland water system. The Bull Run watershed, in combination with the Columbia South Shore Well Field, is capable of meeting Portland’s water needs throughout the summer.

Public notification is not required but the Portland Water Bureau informs the media and sensitive water users, as a practice, when it activates groundwater. One change that customers may notice is a slight increase in water hardness. The media and sensitive water users will again be notified when the Portland Water Bureau returns to 100 percent Bull Run water or if there is a significant change in the drinking water blend.

Due to the dry spring weather, above average temperatures, and in consideration of available long-term weather forecasts, the Portland Water Bureau will use the Columbia South Shore Well Field to supplement supply until the return of significant fall rains.

The Columbia South Shore Well Field is a high-quality water supply that meets or surpasses all federal and state drinking water regulations. It is anticipated that groundwater will contribute between 25 and 35 percent of supply and may be increased if above average demands and dry weather continue.

“We deliver safe and reliable drinking water to almost one million customers,” said Portland Water Bureau Director Michael Stuhr. “At the end of a dry spring, it’s tremendously comforting to know that we can turn to our Columbia South Shore Well Field and supply all our customers’ needs.”

As part of our ongoing summer supply planning, the Portland Water Bureau carefully monitors water levels, weather forecasts, and water use patterns to ensure adequate, clean water for all of its customers. The Portland Water Bureau will be managing our water supply carefully throughout the remainder of this summer, so that we continue to meet our obligations.

Depending on location, it may take up to two weeks for groundwater to move through the distribution system and reach customers. Supply updates will be posted to www.portlandoregon.gov/water/summersupply. For more information about Portland’s drinking water quality, call the Water Line at 503-823-7525.

                                                                                        # # #

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced a grand jury returned a not true bill on June 18, 2018 following the use of force by two Gresham Police officers that resulted in the death of Dmitri Bullard.

The grand jury’s not true bill means they have determined no criminal prosecution is warranted and that Gresham Police Officer Joshua Price and Officer Brendon Hayes were legally justified in using deadly force against Bullard.

According to previously released information from the Gresham Police Department, on May 17, 2018, at approximately 11:50 p.m., officers were dispatched to conduct an area check following the report of a male prowling vehicles in southeast Gresham.

Officers located a vehicle minutes later near Southwest Butler Road and Southeast Regner Road. There, officers attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver, later identified as Bullard, immediately fled westbound on Southwest Butler Road. Officers did not pursue the vehicle, based on department protocol and concerns for public safety.

A short time later, police located the vehicle driving normally on Southwest Butler Road near Southeast 190th Drive.

Officers attempted to stop the vehicle for a second time, but Bullard fled from police. He drove northbound on Southeast 190th Drive. Officers again did not pursue. Minutes later officers found the vehicle crashed on Southwest Pleasant View Drive. Police estimate prior to the crash, Bullard’s vehicle was traveling approximately 114 miles per hour.

Officers attempted to contact Bullard who exited the vehicle with a hatchet and charged them. Officers Price and Hayes fired their duty weapons at Bullard, who died at the scene.

In accordance to the District Attorney’s Office policy and procedures set forth in Senate Bill 505, a request will be made to Multnomah County Presiding Judge Stephen K. Bushong to have the grand jury proceedings transcribed and then subsequently released to the public.

No additional comments will be made at this time.

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Phone: 503.988.6567

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

Welcome to the Oregon FBI’s Tech Tuesday segment. This week, building a digital defense against online sale frauds.

Summer is upon us – and if you are like me, this is the best time to get rid of all that extra stuff sitting in your garage. Who couldn’t use a few extra bucks for that summer vacation, right?

You can do it the old fashioned way – sitting outside for hours on end, hoping someone drives up and offers you big money for your cast-offs. Or, you can sell on platforms like Craigslist and Facebook. Those are great options – if you are smart about how you do business.

I have some personal examples to share with you. Recently, I posted several items for sale… a bed, a barbeque and a few other things. Usually within the first 24 hours of a new posting I received at least one suspicious inquiry, either by email or text. In many cases, the seller said he or she needed to have a mover or shipper pick up the item. The seller proposed sending me a larger-than-requested payment by cashier’s check or electronic transfer, with the caveat that I would use those extra funds to pay the shipper when he arrives to pick up my item.

This is a version of an overpayment scam. Let’s say you get that check and cash it. The shipper takes the item, and eventually the bank figures out the cashier’s check is bogus. The bank is going to come after you for the missing funds and could even pursue criminal charges.

Electronic transfers are not necessarily safer. In a couple cases, the fraudster proposed making a payment via PayPal or a funds transfer. Had I pursued this option, the person would have likely ended up asking for personal information – including bank routing numbers – to push the payment through.

Here are some warning signs to watch for if you are trying to sell online this summer:

• Look for out-of-area phone numbers. All of the suspicious inquiries I received came from area codes nowhere near Oregon. It is possible for scammers to spoof phone numbers, of course, so make sure to proceed cautiously even when you receive an inquiry from a local number.

• Look for bad spelling, stilted language, random capitalizations and chunks of text that are obviously cut-and-pasted from your post.

• Look for those who try to justify why they can’t meet in person. In once case, I had a fraudster claim to be a cabin steward on a major cruise line… which, he said, required an electronic payment and a shipping service. Really? Why does someone who works on a cruise ship need a large barbeque?

Next week we will look at some other scams that pop up in virtual garage sales – complete with more tips on safe selling.

If you have been victimized by an online overpayment scam or any other cyber fraud, be sure to report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or call your local FBI office.

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GRESHAM, Ore.— The use of illegal fireworks is a concern of Gresham residents and the Gresham Police Department. This year, police officers will be focusing on reducing the use of illegal fireworks leading up to and including the Fourth of July. 

Oregon law bans the sale, possession and use of fireworks that fly, explode or travel more than six feet on the ground or 12 inches in the air.

There will be extra patrols to enforce the laws pertaining to the possession and use of illegal fireworks. Individuals found in possession of illegal fireworks will be cited for ORS 480.120 sale, possession and use of fireworks. This is a class B misdemeanor which can result in a $1500 fine. In addition, illegal fireworks will be seized by officers.

Gresham Police want to ensure that all citizens get to enjoy a safe Fourth of July celebration. Illegal fireworks can be reported to the non-emergency police dispatch line at 503.823.3333. Please recognize that emergency police calls will get priority response.

Salem, Ore. Water samples taken on Saturday, June 16 show that Salem’s water continues to be safe to drink. Cyanotoxins in the water distribution system continue to be below EPA Health Advisory guidelines. Results from the most recent data will be available on the City’s website at cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

The City of Salem extended the drinking water advisory on June 10 for at least two weeks to address concerns about the two-day lag between sampling and receiving test results. By keeping the drinking water advisory in place, the City hopes to reduce confusion by giving residents and water customers the opportunity to review the data and take the precautions they feel necessary for their families and their customers. 

Drinking water filling stations are available while the advisory remains in effect. Residents need to bring their own clean and sanitary containers. Please visit cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx for the most current times and locations. 

Residents with questions regarding City water, or in need of assistance, can contact Salem Public Works at 503-588-6311. For health information during the advisory, please call 2-1-1 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Licensed facilities, including restaurants and public pools, with questions can contact Marion County Environmental Health at 503-588-5346 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The water advisory has impacted many people in Salem and surrounding areas. The City of Salem continues to be thankful for the continued patience and support of the community, partnering agencies, and local volunteer groups.  

Additional information will continue to be distributed through the City’s social media accounts and website (www.cityofsalem.net).

Actualización del aviso de agua de la Ciudad de Salem 19 de junio, 2018

Salem, Ore. — Los resultados de la muestra de agua recibida sábado, 16 de junio índico que el agua continúa ser seguro para beber. La presencia de cyanotoxins (toxinas) en el sistema de distribución de agua continúa estar a un nivel por debajo de la directiva del EPA. Datos de los resultados de las muestras tomadas sábado 16 de junio serán disponible martes 19 de junio. La Ciudad continúa proporcionando los reclutados del agua en la página web cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

El 10 de junio la Ciudad de Salem extendió el aviso de agua por lo menos de dos semanas más para afrontar las preocupaciones sobre los dos días cuando las muestras son tomadas y los resultados recibidos.  En manteniendo el aviso de agua en su lugar, La Ciudad espera reducir confusión en dar a los residentes y los clientes de agua la oportunidad en revisar los datos y tomar las precauciones que ellos sienten es necesario para sus familias y clientes.

Estaciones de agua están disponibles mientras que el aviso de agua continúa, por favor vengan preparados con sus propios contenedores sanitarios  Por favor visite nuestra página web (cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx) para los horarios y ubicaciones más actuales.

Los residentes que necesiten asistencia o tienen preguntas pueden ponerse en contacto con la Ciudad de Salem Public Works al 503-588-6311. Para obtener información médica durante el aviso, llama al 211 de 8 a.m. a 6 p.m. Los comercios de licencia, incluyendo restaurantes y piscinas públicas pueden ponerse en contacto con Marion County Environmental Health (Salud Ambiental del Condado de Marion) al 503-588-5346 lunes a viernes, 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.

El aviso del agua ha impactado a muchas personas en Salem y en las áreas cercanas. La Ciudad de Salem continúa ser agradecido por su paciencia y el apoyo de la comunidad, las agencias asociadas, y grupos de voluntarios locales.

Información adicional continuará siendo disponible en nuestras en nuestras redes sociales y página web (www.cityofsalem.net).

See Attached Bulletin

Update:

Mr Smith returned home safe on Monday afternoon. VPD thanks the public for the assistance and information that was offered.

The Vancouver Police Department is seeking the public's assistance with locating 47 year old Scott Smith.  He is described as a white male, 6'2", 200 lbs., with short gray hair and brown eyes.  Smith is said to have last been wearing a blue jacket, gray long-sleeve dress shirt, blue jeans, and athletic shoes. 

Smith was last seen on 6-17-18, when he left his home in his green 1997 Ford Ranger pickup, WA license plate B87768T.   He has not been seen or heard from since.  He may be in the Chelatchie mountain area around Cougar, WA.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts are encouraged to call 911.

The Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal has announced that three Oregon counties, Morrow, Polk, and Umatilla, have completed local hazardous materials by rail emergency response plans

These plans identify rail lines locally that transport hazardous materials, outline emergency notification and response procedures, and are created in conjunction with local emergency planning committees (LEPC) and county emergency managers.

The Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) – who, among other responsibilities, coordinates emergency response planning for oil or hazardous materials spills or releases during rail transport – recently worked with Morrow, Polk, and Umatilla counties to complete the plans. Input is gathered from stakeholder groups including first responders, emergency planners, tribal representatives, railroad operators, healthcare administrators, and many more to ensure a “whole community” approach to planning and response. 

The overall goal of these local plans is to develop the framework for a safe, effective, and efficient response to a hazmat by rail emergency that might occur within their jurisdiction. Plans include information such as the frequency of hazardous commodities transported, emergency notification and response procedures, evacuation routes, probable areas and population impacted along the rail lines, and historically, culturally, and environmentally sensitive areas.

With roughly 40% of all hazardous materials transported in the United States shipped by rail, Oregon State Fire Marshal Jim Walker applauds communities for taking preventative action locally. “By planning notification and response procedures upfront, communities like these get ahead of the curve by preparing for an incident of this magnitude and favorably influence the outcome for both responders and the citizens they protect.”

Follow the OSFM on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OregonStateFireMarshal and Twitter @OSFM.

Portland, OR (June 18, 2018) – The Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metropolitan Area has received a $50,000 “Healthy Lifestyles” Grant from United Way World Wide in partnership with Comcast NBCUniversal.  The check was presented at “Fair Play Day,” an event tied to NBC Sports’ debut of the documentary “Fair Play: Youth Sports in America,” set to premiere Friday, June 29th at 9pm on NBC Sports Northwest, to inspire and encourage Boys & Girls Club kids to play sports and get active. 

The event, held at the Inukai Boys & Girls Club in Hillsboro, featured a range of activities all geared toward kicking off summer programming at the Club.  Kids got to see a trailer of “Fair Play: Youth Sports in America;” the multi-platform documentary project explores the $15 billion organized youth sports industry.  They also heard from Nigel Burton, the former head football coach at Portland State, and co-host of sports radio show “Rip City Mornings with Dan and Nigel” on NBC Sports Northwest Rip City Radio, who encouraged them to participate in sports and have fun.

Erin Hubert, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metro says the $50,000 grant will be shared across their seven sites. “This grant will help fortify our Club programming focused on physical health and activity. Youth today don’t always have access to physical activities during the school day. This funding will be dedicated to providing equitable access to physical activities and sports at our seven sites across three Portland-Metro counties.”

The event closed with a workshop from the Positive Coaching Alliance. The trainer took a group of kids through a series of brief, interactive activities designed to get them thinking about not fearing mistakes, but using them to learn and improve, treating their teammates, opponents and officials with respect, and understanding the power of positivity and how it can lead to success for teams and individuals.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metro
Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metro (BGCP) empowers more than 1,000 youth daily to discover their full potential through impactful after-school and summer programs. Clubs support kids and teens as they develop the qualities they need to achieve academic success, become responsible leaders, and live healthy lives. Today, the Clubs operate six facilities across three counties within the metropolitan area, along with a school-based site at Margaret Scott Elementary School in the Reynolds School District.

Monday, June 18, 2018-Woodland, WA-Woodland High School celebrated its largest graduating class with 155 graduates in a series of events culminating in the Commencement Ceremony on Friday, June 15. Graduates took part in a Senior Breakfast, paraded through district schools in the Parade of Graduates, and concluded by walking in the 110th Annual Commencement to receive their diplomas.

Senior Breakfast

On Friday morning, graduates gathered at the Woodland Presbyterian Church for a special breakfast provided by volunteers and the church pastor. The Presbyterian Church has celebrated the success of graduating seniors by graciously providing a special breakfast as a Woodland tradition for nearly 70 years.

Parade of Graduates

Following breakfast, the graduates donned their graduation gowns for the third annual Woodland Parade of Graduates. Graduates parade through Woodland Primary School, Woodland Intermediate School, Woodland Middle School, and even Woodland High School. Students prepared banners and posters celebrating their older counterparts' graduation and lined the parades route to cheer. Some students give high-fives to graduates as they passed.

The Parade of Graduates was developed and organized as a joint project by the district's entire administrative team. "The parade serves to inspire students in younger grades to see the end goal of their years of learning," said Dan Uhlenkott, Assistant Principal of Woodland High School. "Both the graduates and the younger students were so excited to take part in the celebration."

Hunter Graham, a 2018 graduate, started attending Woodland schools during his Freshman year, but still appreciated visiting the other campuses, “It was a very cool experience seeing the kids and getting all the support from both the students and staff.” The Class of 2018 will be the last class to attend both the new high school opened in 2015 as well as the old campus, now the Woodland Middle School. “I never thought I’d walk through the halls of the old high school again,” said Jared Frederick, another 2018 grad. “I can’t believe how small it is compared to my memories of it.”

While riding the buses between campuses, grads reflected on their time attending the different schools by regaling in memories of their favorite teachers lunches, recesses, fire drills and other events from their academic careers.

Commencement Ceremony

The Class of 2018 broke the district record for largest graduating class as a total of 155 students graduated. Woodland High School's 110th Commencement Ceremony on the evening of Friday, June 15, and was the first commencement ceremony held at the new high school’s stadium, first opened in August 2015.

The Woodland High School band played "Pomp and Circumstance" as the graduates entered followed by the WHS Jazz Choir singing the National Anthem. Natalie Biddix, Senior Class Speaker, served as the Master of Ceremonies, opening the commencement with a speech reminiscing about her classmates’ time attending Woodland Public Schools. Natalie also spoke of the challenges facing her classmates throughout the years including learning to navigate an entirely new high school.

The Class of 2018 selected Kyla Keefer, a Woodland High School Social Studies and English Language Arts teacher, to give a speech to the graduates. Keefer spoke of discovering her love of teaching as a student teacher for the Class of 2018 when they were in seventh grade. “I’ve never been a teaching in a building that you students weren’t attending,” she recalled. “I have to thank all of you from the bottom of my heart; you have all helped me discover my calling as a teacher and my second home – our classroom.”

Cooper Kaml, the first of two class speakers selected from tryouts, spoke of recognizing experience as the result of not getting what you planned. Cooper also emphasized the importance for his classmates to defy the expectations set forth for their generation, striving to do good work and achieve the best they can throughout their lives.

Levi Orem, the second of two class speakers selected from tryouts, gave his class an important message of the need to defy stereotypes facing their generation and be aware of their use of technology. “Our generation doesn’t remember what the world looked like with our smartphones,” he explained. “Maybe that’s why we’re the loneliest generation – we’ve allowed the ‘connectedness’ these devices provide to actually disconnect us.”

Levi went on to encourage his classmates to develop the interpersonal skills to truly connect with one another. He spoke of his classmates wish for the world to be different, “No matter what you want to change in the world, you must take the personal responsibility for making that change a reality.”

Levi sprinkled his address with humorous anecdotes and closed his speech beaming with pride for Woodland High School and his classmates, “We are not the stereotypes people have for us – we are state champs, excelling students, and, most importantly – we are Beavers. Stay cool, Woodland High School.”

Woodland High School Principal John Shoup challenged the Class of 2018 to thrive in life. “Our attitude is the one thing we can completely control,” he said. “Find the best in people and assume the individuals you interact with on a daily basis have good intentions in their actions.” Shoup also encouraged graduates to find the times to step back, relax and pause in order to give the benefit of the doubt, “If you meet this challenge, you will experience so much less stress in your lives and will be that much more likely to thrive.”

Following John Shoup’s speech, Woodland Superintendent Michael Green welcomed the Class of 2018, “Through your perseverance and commitment, you’ve completed your formal education, yet we call this celebration a ‘commencement’ which means ‘beginning’ as this is only the very beginning of your successful lives.”

Following his speech, Green officially certified the graduating members of the Class of 2018 had met the requirements and presented the class to Board Director Lesa Beuscher who handed out diplomas to each graduate.

More Photographs

Additional photographs of the events described above can be found on Woodland Public School's Facebook page located at www.Facebook.com/WoodlandPS

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Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced the negotiated settlement in a case involving Ryan Michael Gawick, 34, who had been charged in connection with the September 25, 2017 vehicular death of Rekey Frank Agee.

Upon initial review of this case, a Multnomah County grand jury indicted Gawick with one count of criminally negligent homicide. Under Oregon law, criminal negligence means that a person fails to be aware of a substantial and unjustifiable risk that the result will occur or that the circumstance exists. The risk must be of such nature and degree that the failure to be aware of it constitutes a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would observe in the situation.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed in this case, Mr. Agee was walking to work while wearing a reflective safety vest when he was struck by the defendant’s vehicle. Gawick was also on his way to work when the crash occurred at approximately 6:15 a.m. on Monday September 25, 2017 at the intersection of North Columbia Boulevard and North Interstate Place. Police determined Gawick failed to stop at a red light as he drove westbound on North Columbia Boulevard when he struck Mr. Agee who was in the crosswalk as he walked northbound across North Columbia Boulevard. 

“After completing the investigation in this case, which included additional investigation beyond what was initially learned at the time of the crash that resulted in the loss of Mr. Agee, the State has concluded that there are potential legal impediments to proceeding to trial on the charge of criminally negligent homicide,” said Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Elisabeth Waner, who prosecuted this case. “Of particular interest to the State were the cellphone data records belonging to the defendant at the time of the crash. The records we received were inconclusive as to whether or not Mr. Gawick was actively manipulating his phone at the time of the crash. In order to proceed with a charge of criminally negligent homicide, the law requires the State have evidence to show the defendant should have been aware of a problem with his driving, such as swerving, inattention or near a collision before the ultimate crash. At trial, the State would need to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Mr. Gawick had prior knowledge that he was driving in a way that would have resulted in the death of Mr. Agee.”

The investigation also determined that at the time of the crash, the defendant was not violating the speed limit.

“What is clear in this case, no matter the cause, Mr. Gawick’s inattentiveness behind the wheel resulted in the tragic loss of life of a husband and father,” Waner said. “The death of Mr. Agee will be deeply felt by many for several years to come. This was a senseless death that easily could have been avoided had Mr. Gawick adhered to the duties each and every one of us has when we get behind the wheel of a vehicle.”

As a result of those facts, the defendant appeared before Judge Michael A. Greenlick on June 18, 2018 and pleaded guilty to one count of careless driving, which contributed to the death of a vulnerable road user. The defendant received a sentence of one year probation. He was ordered to perform the maximum of 200 hours of community service, which must focus on driver improvement and public education on traffic safety. Additionally, the defendant will have to complete a traffic safety course. As part of his sentence, the defendant’s driver’s license was suspended. A fine of $12,500 was imposed. If the defendant completes his community service, the Court will waive the fine within one year. The charge of criminally negligent homicide was dismissed. 

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Phone: 503.988.6567

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

18 de junio, 2018: Este comunicado de prensa se actualizó para reflejar un cambio en la ubicación de la reunión de Bend

14 de junio, 2018 

El director de Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Patrick Allen, emprenderá una gira este verano para conversar con residentes de Oregon sobre el futuro del Plan de Salud de Oregon. Allen viajará por 10 comunidades (Astoria, Bend, Coos Bay, Corvallis, Hermiston, Hood River, Klamath Falls, Ontario, Portland y Springfield) para hablar sobre lo que se ha logrado con la transformación del sistema de salud en Oregon y lo que se busca mejorar. Además, Allen quiere escuchar opiniones sobre las opciones propuestas para mejorar el sistema de salud coordinada del estado.

La conclusión de los primeros contratos de cinco años con las Organizaciones de Atención de Salud Coordinada (CCOs por sus siglas en inglés) señalan una oportunidad para que el Consejo de Política de Salud de Oregon trabaje con todas las partes interesadas para mejorar los servicios que un millón de personas reciben por medio del Plan de Salud de Oregon.  CCOs son organizaciones gobernadas por la comunidad que ayudan a reunir proveedores de salud física, mental, y dental para coordinar la atención médica de beneficiarios del Plan de Salud de Oregon (Medicaid).

Desde el 2012, el modelo de salud coordinada de Oregon ha ahorrado a los contribuyentes alrededor de $2.2 mil millones, mientras reduce las visitas innecesarias a las salas de emergencias y mejora el cuidado de salud preventivo para niños y adultos.

El 5 de junio, OHA presentó propuestas y estrategias al Consejo de Política de Salud de Oregon para mejorar la atención de salud que proveerá el Plan de Salud de Oregon en los próximos cinco años. Las propuestas se formaron tras consultar al público por medio de sondeos, foros comunitarios, reuniones en persona y por internet, al igual que correos electrónicos.

Las propuestas se enfocan en mejorar cuatro áreas de prioridad identificadas por la Gobernadora Kate Brown.

• Mantener un crecimiento sostenible de los gastos.
• Incrementar remuneración basada en acciones—paga según el rendimiento.
• Enfocarse en los determinantes sociales de la salud y equidad.
• Mejorar el sistema de salud mental.

OHA continuara recabando aportaciones del público sobre las propuestas a lo largo del verano, y el Consejo de Política de Salud adoptara las recomendaciones en el otoño. Contratos para la atención de salud coordinada para 2020-2025 se espera sean otorgados en el verano de 2019.

Programa de reuniones comunitarias de junio 2018

Lunes, 18 de junio
Hood River, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Hood River Inn 
1108 E Marina Drive 
 
Martes, 19 de junio
Hermiston, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 
Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Center 
1750 E Airport Road 

Ontario, 6:30-8:30 p.m. 
Treasure Valley Community College, Weese Building, Room 110 
650 College Blvd 
 
Miércoles, 20 de junio 
Bend, 12-2 p.m. 
Central Oregon Community College, Wille Hall
2600 NW College Way 
 
Jueves, 21 de junio 
Portland, 6-8 p.m. 
Madison High School 
2735 NE 82nd Ave 
 
Martes, 26 de junio 
Corvallis, 12:30-2:30 p.m. 
Oregon State University LaSells Stewart Center 
875 SW 26th Street 
 
Springfield, 6-8 p.m. 
Holiday Inn 
919 Kruse Way 
 
Miércoles, 27 de junio 
Astoria, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 
Astoria Armory 
1636 Exchange Street 

Coos Bay, 7-9 p.m. 
Red Lion Inn 
1313 N Bayshore Drive 
 
Jueves, 28 de junio 
Klamath Falls, 12:30-2:30 p.m. 
Henley Elementary School 
8227 Highway 39 
 
Traductores en español estarán presentes en todas las reuniones.

# # #

Todos tienen el derecho de tener conocimiento y utilizar los programas y servicios de la Autoridad de Salud de Oregon (OHA, por sus siglas en inglés). OHA provee ayuda gratuita como, por ejemplo:

• Traductores en diferentes lenguajes hablados y lenguaje de signos americano
• Documentos escritos en otros lenguajes
• Braille
• Letra grande
• Audio y otros formatos

Para asistencia o respuestas a preguntas, por favor llame a Lisa Bui al 971-673-3397, 711 TTY o Lisa.T.Bui@state.or.us al menos 48 horas antes del evento.

Este comunicado de prensa se actualizó el 18 de junio de 2018 a las 3 p.m., para reflejar un cambio en la ubicación de la reunión de Bend.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is coping with an unexpected, temporary reduction in Animal Protection and Control and Code Enforcement service levels.

The county continues to provide animal licensing and is working diligently to restore previous levels of animal control service.

The county is focused on meeting the immediate demands of summer weather and Independence Day activities, both of which can be stressful and harmful for animals. Over the next several weeks, Animal Protection and Control officers and an after-hours service provider working for the county will increase enforcement and outreach activities.

Summer weather and July 4 activities also can heighten fire danger. Code Enforcement officers will make it a priority to respond to complaints about accumulated dried weeds. 

“It is our hope to have full service levels restored by mid-August,” said Mitch Nickolds, interim Community Development director.

The operator of the Honda Civic has been identified as Hailee FOX, age 21 from Grants Pass.  FOX sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  The passenger Rodrigo, HERRERA, age 24 from Grants Pass.  HERRERA was transported to the hospital for his injuries.

No further information will be released as investigation is continuing

On June 16, 2018 at approximately 12:50 AM Oregon State Police Troopers responded to a 911 call on Galice Rd.

Preliminary investigation reveals that a female from Grants Pass had called 911 and reported that a male had been assaulted and that he was in need of medical attention.    She stayed on the phone with 911 and began driving to the hospital.  As Troopers were responding they located the male in the middle of Galice Rd. and evidence that a vehicle had left the road and went into Hellgate Canyon.

Rural Metro Fire personnel rappelled into Hellgate Canyon and there they located a Honda Civic with a female operator that sustained fatal injuries in the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Oregon State Police was assisted by Josephine County Search and Rescue and Rural Metro Fire.

No further information will be released as investigation is continuing.

The ORVED Board of Directors has chosen for its next Executive Director Kerri Smith, currently serving as principal.  Ms. Smith will take up the new position on July 1, 2018.

She succeeds Paul Peterson, who has taken a position as interim superintendent at Scappoose School District.  He served as executive director since 2012.

Smith, has served in her current position since 2012.  In addition, she is a director for Northwest Regional Education Service District (NWRESD).  The initial part of her career in education was spent at North Powder School District, where she taught Language Arts and eventually became Superintendent.  She has served as an administrator at NWRESD since 2006.

Board President Paul Zastrow welcomes Smith to her new role. “Our board and staff are delighted that Ms. Smith has taken the reigns of our great, non-profit program offering high-quality online courses.  We look forward to her help in expanding this resource to more Oregon schools and students.”  

Kerri Smith said, “I am truly grateful and honored for this opportunity to serve ORVED in a different way.  I believe in the value of education and meeting students where they are.  Furthermore, every student in Oregon deserves the opportunity for a personalized education with a variety of options.”

Oregon Virtual Education is publicly funded program that provides online courses in foreign languages, higher mathematics, and core curriculum to students across the state.  The program emphasizes more teacher-student contact than is typical for virtual programs.

Students may take just a single course while attending their local schools or they may enroll full-time in ORVED’s charter school.  This has been a particularly helpful way for students pursuing full-time athletic and arts careers.  Each student is taught by an Oregon-licensed professional educator.

Updated June 18 to reflect new location of Bend meeting

June 7, 2018

Contact: Allyson Hagen, 503-449-6457, allyson.hagen@state.or.us

OHA announces community meetings across state to shape the future of the Oregon Health Plan

Oregon Health Authority Director Patrick Allen is hitting the road this summer to engage Oregonians in a conversation about the future of the Oregon Health Plan. Allen is scheduled to travel to 10 communities (Astoria, Bend, Coos Bay, Corvallis, Hermiston, Hood River, Klamath Falls, Ontario, Portland and Springfield) to discuss how far Oregon’s health transformation has come and where it's going, and to get feedback on proposed policy options to improve the state’s coordinated care system.

The end of the first five-year contracts with coordinated care organizations (CCOs) marks an opportunity for the Oregon Health Policy Board to work with stakeholders to improve the services that 1 million Oregonians receive through the Oregon Health Plan. CCOs are community-governed organizations that bring together physical, mental health, addiction medicine, and dental health providers to coordinate care for people on the Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid).

Since 2012 Oregon’s coordinated care model has saved taxpayers an estimated $2.2 billion, while also reducing unnecessary emergency department visits, and improving preventive care for children and adults.

On June 5 OHA presented policy options and strategies to the Oregon Health Policy Board to shape the next five years of health care coverage offered through the Oregon Health Plan. The policy options were informed by public input gathered this spring through surveys, community forums, in-person and online stakeholder meetings, and emails.

The policies focus on four priority improvement areas identified by Governor Kate Brown:

• Maintain sustainable cost growth.
• Increase value-based payments that pay for performance.
• Focus on social determinants of health and equity.
• Improve the behavioral health system.

OHA will continue to gather public input on the policy options throughout the summer, and the Oregon Health Policy Board will adopt final recommendations this fall. Coordinated care contracts for 2020-2025 are expected to be awarded in summer 2019.

For more information, visit the CCO 2.0 webpage.

June 2018 community meeting schedule

Monday, June 18

Hood River, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Hood River Inn

1108 E Marina Drive

Tuesday, June 19

Hermiston, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Center

1750 E Airport Road

Ontario, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Treasure Valley Community College, Weese Building, Room 110

650 College Blvd

Wednesday, June 20

Bend, noon to 2 p.m.

Central Oregon Community College, Wille Hall

2600 NW College Way

Thursday, June 21

Portland, 6-8 p.m.

Madison High School

2735 NE 82nd Ave

Tuesday, June 26

Corvallis, 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Oregon State University LaSells Stewart Center

875 SW 26th Street

Springfield, 6-8 p.m.

Holiday Inn

919 Kruse Way

Wednesday, June 27

Astoria, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Astoria Armory

1636 Exchange Street

Coos Bay, 7-9 p.m.

Red Lion Inn

1313 N Bayshore Drive

Thursday, June 28

Klamath Falls, 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Henley Elementary School

8227 Highway 39

Spanish language interpretation services will be available at the meetings.

# # #

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 Lisa Bui at 971-673-3397, 711 TTY, or ui@state.or.us">Lisa.T.Bui@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting. OHA will make every effort to provide services for requests made closer to the meeting.

Time of meeting updated 6/12/18.

Meeting place updated 6/18/18.

On June 18, 2018, an adult in custody at the Multnomah County Detention Center experienced a medical emergency which resulted in an in-custody death.

At 11:34am, medical backup was called for an adult in custody experiencing a medical emergency. Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office deputies, Corrections Health staff, American Medical Response, and Portland Fire & Rescue responded to render aid. During this medical emergency, the facility was placed on lockdown and booking was closed for a short period of time.

Despite life-saving efforts, the adult in custody was pronounced dead. MCSO Detectives and the Multnomah County Medical Examiner responded to the facility. Sheriff Reese and Chief Deputies Morrisey and Peterson also responded.

This is an active investigation and no further details are available. The deceased’s name will not be release at this time, pending family notification.

We appreciate the coordinated response between MCSO staff, first responders, and medical personnel.

###

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a home fire disaster on June 18, 2018, at approximately 12:30 p.m. in the 1000 block of SE Stettler Street in Dallas, Oregon. The fire affected one family, including two adults and one child. 

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits with toiletry items, information about recovery services, and health and mental health services. Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department.  

The Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families affected by disasters, like home fires, every day. The Red Cross advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online form at www.redcross.org/GetAnAlarm to schedule an appointment.  

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham Police is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man that entered a woman’s apartment while he was naked and attempted to assault her. On June 5 at approximately 4:14 a.m. this unclothed man entered the victim’s unlocked apartment near SE 202nd Dr. and SE Morrison Ter. and got into bed with her. The woman woke up, kicked him away and chased him out of the apartment. He was last seen fleeing on foot.

He is described as a Hispanic male in his early twenties, 5-feet-6 inches tall, average build, with dark shaggy hair and a slight mustache.

Anyone who recognizes this subject or has any information about the case is asked to call the Gresham Police at 503.618.2719.

Today a Marion County Grand Jury unanimously found that an Aumsville Police Officer was justified in using deadly force against Joshua Brook Biles, date of birth 12/27/90, in the early morning hours of June 8, 2018.

Officer Ryan Bambrick was cleared in the shooting that occurred after he stopped Joshua Brook Biles’ vehicle for a traffic violation near the intersection of Stayton Road and Bates Road, just outside the city limits of Aumsville. At the time of the stop, an altercation occurred between Officer Bambrick and Joshua Brook Biles, who then fled the scene and was quickly arrested a short distance away.

As a result of the altercation, Joshua Brook Biles received a minor injury and was treated on scene.  Officer Bambrick was not injured, however, his civilian ride-along passenger did sustain a non life-threatening injury. 

The same Grand Jury that found Officer Bambrick’s actions to be justified also indicted Joshua Brook Biles for: Assault in the Third Degree, 2 counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree, and Attempting to Elude a Police Officer.

Joshua Brook Biles is scheduled to be arraigned on the indictment on June 18, 2018 at 8:30 a.m. at 4000 Aumsville Highway. 

Due to the ongoing nature of Joshua Brook Biles’ criminal case, the DA’s Office will not release any further detail of the shooting or the crimes at this time.

Contact Info:  Matt Kemmy, Deputy DA, 503-588-5222

Video and better image added .

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wcre7UqAvgM

Deputies with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office are seeking tips to help identify a man captured in a surveillance image from June 13th. The man is currently wanted for questioning related to a vandalism and burglary investigation.

It is believed the man damaged surveillance cameras on June 13th at GK machinery in Donald. Then on June 18th a man fitting the same description was captured on surveillance cameras burglarizing a City of Donlad water treatment facility. T

he Sheriff’s Office is not prepared to provide any additional information regarding the referenced cases. We are however seeking any tips or information that lead to the identification of the man pictured in the image captured June 13th. You can submit your tips by calling 503 588 5032 or you can submit an anonymous tip via our Facebook page by selecting the “submit a tip” button.

Captain Shaun Davis, Oregon City Police Department, recently completed one of the toughest challenges available to local law enforcement officers: the FBI National Academy. In early June, Captain Davis and two other Oregon law enforcement officers completed a 10-week training session at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

There is a highly competitive process local law enforcement officers must go through to be selected for this honor. That process includes a nomination by a supervisor; interviews with the candidate and co-workers to determine leadership skills and abilities; a background check; a determination of physical fitness; and the support of former National Academy graduates within the candidate's organization.

"The exceptional leaders selected for the National Academy have the opportunity to learn and share best practices with other elite law enforcement officers from across the county and the world," said Renn Cannon, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon. “Only a few are chosen to attend each year, and we are proud to sponsor Oregon City Police Department’s Captain Davis and our other Oregon partners this year.”

Captain Davis started his law enforcement career in 1998 when he graduated from the Reserve Academy for Oregon City Police Department and was hired as a full-time officer. During his career, he has held the position of FTO, Officer in Charge (OIC) defensive tactics instructor, building search instructor, OC instructor, Detective, K-9 Officer and Sergeant.  The department promoted him to Captain in 2016. He currently is the patrol captain and oversees patrol, K-9, SWAT, Hostage Negotiation Team, the school resource officer, the traffic team, the college resource officer, the community service officer, the Honor Guard, the Tri-Met position and the homeless liaison officer. 

Captain Davis also recently earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree.

“The National Academy is an incredible opportunity,” said Oregon City Police Chief Jim Band. “Captain Davis has had the opportunity to learn from the best instructors in our industry and to make connections with other law enforcement leaders from the United States and other countries. Captain Davis will bring what he has learned back to our community to ensure our department is consistent with the best policing practices available.”

During the 10 weeks of training, local executive-level law enforcement officers spend most of their time in the classroom. Captain Davis’ National Academy classes included: Leading At-Risk Employee's, Fitness in Law Enforcement, Essentials for Law Enforcement Leaders, Contemporary Issues in Police and Media Relations, Legal Issues Impacting law Enforcement Operations and Contemporary Issues in Law Enforcement Seminar. The program allows participants the opportunity to earn college credits through the University of Virginia for some of those studies. In addition to the classroom work, participants have physical training courses and activities.

Each year, the FBI sponsors four sessions of the National Academy. Each session includes about 220 local law enforcement officers from around the United States and around the world. While in the academy, the officers and deputies live in a dorm-like setting. The FBI does not charge U.S. students for tuition, books, equipment, meals, lodging or travel to and from their home.

###

Sergeant Lyle Gilbert, Independence Police Department, recently completed one of the toughest challenges available to local law enforcement officers: the FBI National Academy. In early June, Sgt. Gilbert and two other Oregon law enforcement officers completed a 10-week training session at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

There is a highly competitive process local law enforcement officers must go through to be selected for this honor. That process includes a nomination by a supervisor; interviews with the candidate and co-workers to determine leadership skills and abilities; a background check; a determination of physical fitness; and the support of former National Academy graduates within the candidate's organization.

"The exceptional leaders selected for the National Academy have the opportunity to learn and share best practices with other elite law enforcement officers from across the county and the world," said Renn Cannon, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon. “Only a few are chosen to attend each year and we are proud to sponsor Independence Police Department’s Sgt. Gilbert and our other Oregon partners this year.”

Sgt. Gilbert started his law enforcement career in 2002 as a Reserve Officer with Independence Police Department and started part-time in 2004. A year later, the department hired him as a full-time officer and then promoted him to Sergeant in 2013. During his career at the Independence Police Department, he has been the department rangemaster, field training officer, Special Response Team member, reserve program coordinator and Community Emergency Response Team program coordinator.  Currently he is the Patrol Sergeant and oversees patrol operations, scheduling and training.

"We at the Independence Police Department are very proud of Lyle. Being selected to attend the FBI National Academy is a significant accomplishment in any career. I am sure Lyle took some of our small town, West Coast ideas to share with classmates from around the country and world, and I know he is bringing a lot of ideas back that he learned from others,” said Chief Mason of the Independence Police Department. “It’s going to be great to have him back. It’s true that you don’t really know everything someone does until they’re no longer doing it. We have had some significant gaps to fill in his absence.”

During the 10 weeks of training, local executive-level law enforcement officers spend most of their time in the classroom. Sgt. Gilbert’s National Academy classes included: Emotional Intelligence, Essentials for Law Enforcement Leaders, Public Speaking, Contemporary Issues in Police and Media Relations, Contemporary Issues in Law Enforcement and Fitness in Law Enforcement. The program allows participants the opportunity to earn college credits through the University of Virginia for some of those studies. In addition to the classroom work, participants have physical training courses and activities.

Each year, the FBI sponsors four sessions of the National Academy. Each session includes about 220 local law enforcement officers from around the United States and around the world. While in the academy, the officers and deputies live in a dorm-like setting. The FBI does not charge U.S. students for tuition, books, equipment, meals, lodging or travel to and from their home.

###

Salem, Ore. —Water samples taken on Friday, June 15 show that Salem’s water continues to be safe to drink. Cyanotoxins in the water distribution system continue to be below EPA Health Advisory guidelines. Results of sampling data from Saturday, June 16 will be available Tuesday, June 19. The City continues to publish water test results at cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

The City of Salem extended the drinking water advisory on June 10 for at least two weeks to address concerns about the two-day lag between sampling and receiving test results. By keeping the drinking water advisory in place, they hope to reduce confusion by giving residents and water customers the opportunity to review the data and take the precautions they feel necessary for their families and their customers.

Drinking water filling stations (residents need to bring their own clean and sanitary containers) are available while the advisory remains in effect. Please visit cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx for the most current times and locations.

Residents with questions regarding City water, or in need of assistance, can contact Salem Public Works at 503-588-6311. For health information during the advisory, please call 2-1-1 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Licensed facilities, including restaurants and public pools, with questions can contact Marion County Environmental Health at 503-588-5346 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The water advisory has impacted many people in Salem and surrounding areas. The City of Salem continues to be thankful for the continued patience and support of the community, partnering agencies, and local volunteer groups.  

Additional information will continue to be distributed through the City’s social media accounts and website (www.cityofsalem.net).

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
 

Actualización del aviso de agua de la Ciudad de Salem 18 de junio, 2018

Salem, Ore. — Los resultados de la muestra de agua recibida viernes, 15 de junio índico que el agua continúa ser seguro para beber. La presencia de cyanotoxins (toxinas) en el sistema de distribución de agua continúa estar a un nivel por debajo de la directiva del EPA. Datos de los resultados de las muestras tomadas sábado 16 de junio serán disponible martes 19 de junio. La Ciudad continúa proporcionando los reclutados del agua en la página web cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-quality-test-data.aspx.

El 10 de junio la Ciudad de Salem extendió el aviso de agua por lo menos de dos semanas más para afrontar las preocupaciones sobre los dos días cuando las muestras son tomadas y los resultados recibidos.  En manteniendo el aviso de agua en su lugar, esperamos reducir confusión en dar a los residentes y los clientes de agua la oportunidad en revisar los datos y tomar las precauciones que ellos sienten es necesario para sus familias y clientes.

Estaciones de agua (por favor vengan preparados con sus propios contenedores sanitarios) están disponibles mientras que el aviso de agua continua. Por favor visite nuestra página web (cityofsalem.net/Pages/water-advisory.aspx) para los horarios y ubicaciones más actuales.

Los residentes que necesiten asistencia o tienen preguntas pueden ponerse en contacto con la Ciudad de Salem Public Works al 503??'588??'6311. Para obtener información médica durante el aviso, llame al 2??'1??'1 de 8 a.m. a 6 p.m. Los comercios de licencia, incluyendo restaurantes y piscinas públicas pueden ponerse en contacto con Marion County Environmental Health (Salud Ambiental del Condado de Marion) al 503??'588??'5346 lunes a viernes, 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.

El aviso del agua ha impactado a muchas personas en Salem y en las áreas cercanas. La Ciudad de Salem continúa ser agradecido por su paciencia y el apoyo de la comunidad, las agencias asociadas, y grupos de voluntarios locales.

Información adicional continuará siendo disponible en nuestras en nuestras redes sociales y página web (www.cityofsalem.net).

The Unified Child and Youth Safety Implementation Plan Steering Team meets Thursday, June 28 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Barbara Roberts Human Services Building, Room 137 A-D, 500 Summer St. NE, Salem. The meeting is open to the public.

Agenda items include: foster parent training and supports updates, coordinated response to allegations of child abuse updates, status reports on ten priority projects and future agenda items.

Individuals unable to attend in person may call into the meeting and follow the presentation along online. Conference line: 1-877-848-7030; Participant Code: 285-3245. To follow presentation online, please use this link:  https://bit.ly/2L8U6bY.

The meeting location is accessible to people with disabilities. For questions about accessibility or to request an accommodation, please contact Kelsi Eisele at 971-283-1628 or kelsi.p.eisele@state.or.us. Requests should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting. A good faith effort will be made to fulfill requests.

For questions about this meeting, please contact: Nathan Rix, Executive Projects Director, at nathan.k.rix@state.or.us or Kelsi Eisele, Communication Project Manager, at kelsi.p.eisele@state.or.us.

DHS developed the Unified Child and Youth Safety Implementation Plan, which defines a two-year scope of work for transforming the child safety system and governance structure. The project team is now driving forward ten priority projects geared towards increasing child safety in Oregon. This steering team provides oversight, adherence to goals, and will monitor and control projects within the Unified Child and Youth Safety Implementation Plan.

# # #

On June 8, 2018, the Salem Police Department Traffic Unit conducted a two location vehicle and pedestrian safety campaign in partnership with Oregon Impact. The goal of these campaigns is to enhance safety in our community through education to both pedestrians and vehicle operators. Locations for the campaigns are chosen based on crash and complaint data received by the Department.

The locations designated for the campaign on June 8 were: the 1500 block of Market St NE and the intersection of State St and Winter St. Although Oregon law states that every intersection should be considered to have a crosswalk, whether marked or not, officers chose to focus on educating drivers who committed violations at marked crosswalks. During this campaign, 55 drivers were contacted for a variety of violations, 50 of which were pedestrian-related. Of those 55 drivers, 43 received education and warnings and seven were issued citations. 30 warnings and 21 citations were issued for other violations. Additionally, two vehicles were towed and one arrest was made.

Drivers who were contacted, were educated on the law and provided educational materials in English and Spanish. It is our hope that these campaigns make the streets of Salem safer for all the people in our community.

###

Since 1933, ham radio operators across North America have established temporary ham radio stations in public locations during Field Day to showcase the science and skill of Amateur Radio. 

Members of the Lincoln County Amateur Radio Club will be participating in the national Amateur Radio Field Day exercise, June 23-24, 2018 at the Port of Toledo Waterfront Park next to the Toledo Post Office.  The Club Members will be on site from 11:00 am Saturday to 11:00 am Sunday; this event is open to the public and all are encouraged to attend.

For over 100 years, Amateur Radio - sometimes called ham radio- has allowed people from all walks of life to experiment with electronics and communications techniques, as well as provide a free public service to their communities during a disaster, all without needing a cell phone or the Internet.   Field Day demonstrates ham radio's ability to work reliably under any conditions from almost any location and create an independent communications network.  Over 35,000 people from thousands of locations of locations participated in Field Day in 2015.

"It's easy for anyone to pick up a computer or smartphone, connect to the Internet and communicate, with no knowledge of how the devices function or connect to each other," said Sean Kutzko of the American Radio Relay League, the national association for Amateur Radio.  "But if there's an interruption of service or you're out of range of a cell tower, you have no way to communicate.  Ham radio functions completely independent of the Internet or cell phone infrastructure, can interface with tablets or smartphones, and can be set up almost anywhere in minutes.  That's the beauty of Amateur Radio during a communication outage."

"Hams can literally throw a wire in a tree for an antenna, connect it to a battery-powered transmitter and communicate halfway around the world," Kutzko added.  "Hams do this by using a layer of Earth's atmosphere as a sort of mirror for radio waves.  In today's electronic do-it-yourself (DIY) environment, ham radio remains one of the best ways for people to learn about electronics, physics, meteorology, and numerous other scientific disciplines, and is a huge asset to any community during disasters if the standard communication infrastructure goes down."

Anyone may become a licensed Amateur Radio operator.  There are over 725,000 licensed hams in the United States, as young as 5 and as old as 100.  And with clubs such as the Lincoln County Amateur Radio Club, it's easy for anybody to get involved right here in Lincoln County.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office also sponsors the Auxiliary Communications Service Volunteer Group, 70+ Amateur Radio Operators specifically supporting local government emergency response, information brochure attached.

For more information:

• Field Day - visit Lincoln County Amateur Radio Club's web site at www.n7oy.org/  or visit www.arrl.org/what-is-ham-radio.
• Lincoln County Auxiliary Communications Service Volunteer Group - http://www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement/page/auxiliary-communications-service or call (541) 265-4199

###

Respectfully submitted,

Virginia “Jenny” Demaris

Emergency Manager

Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Emergency Management

225 W Olive Street, Suite 103

Newport, Oregon 97365
is@co.lincoln.or.us">vdemaris@co.lincoln.or.us

(541) 265-4199 Office

Mt. Hood Community College staff, faculty, and students are working to provide students with an entirely new experience during their first term of college. This initiative – called the New Student Experience (NSE) – will establish a central space where students will have access to support staff, complete all their steps to get started, and get connected to college services in one stop. The goal of the New Student Experience is to re-design new student onboarding at Mt. Hood Community College to increase student retention and completion.

The NSE project kicked off last summer. The initiative is being spearheaded by the college’s Title III Mt. Hood Institutional Retention Initiative (MHIRI) team. The MHIRI was formed out of a five-year, $2.1 million U.S. Department of Education grant. Dispersed in $430,000 annual payments, the grant began in October 2016.

“That’s a big part of why we’re beginning this work now,” said Matt Farina, MHCC’s Director of Retention. “We have these funds that we need to use to increase student retention and degree completion. And an essential key to retaining new students is to support them during that critical first year.”

In 2014, when the Title III grant was written, MHCC’s fall term-to-fall term retention rate was 52 percent and the college’s graduation rates hovered around 18 percent. MHIRI maintains goals of increasing retention to 59 percent, and graduation rates to 26 percent, by 2021.

To help increase retention, MHCC will establish a centralized Student Services Hub located in the current Student Services office and adjacent areas. The “Hub” will be built over the summer and open for fall term 2018. It will encompass all the services, along with support personnel, that current or prospective students may need, including Financial Aid, Advising, Registration, and Orientation. Most importantly, the Hub will serve as a wayfinding place for all students who may have questions, need help finding resources, or require assistance in getting started.

“We’re using a collaborative approach to build the Hub and NSE components,” said Nancy Gomez-Sewell, Title III Project Coordinator at MHCC. “We have five teams comprised of MHCC staff and faculty from across the college.”

“The Title III team has conducted over 65 one-on-one interviews with faculty and staff, and hosted more than 12 departmental staff input sessions,” added Gomez-Sewell. “Additionally, the Title III team has compiled data from 450-plus student surveys and held focus groups for 250-plus students, to determine their central needs.”

Other components of the NSE include designing a “Getting Started Guide,” a print and digital communication tool designed to guide students through key steps to get started. Additionally, the NSE initiative will consolidate the college’s orientation events and offer three orientation options, starting this summer. These events will include:

• Student Orientation Online, Get Started: A fast and simple introduction to the MHCC procedure and services.
   
• Students Orientation Bridge, Get Connected: An intensive multi-day orientation to give college students the inside scoop on how to get the most out of MHCC.
   
• Student Orientation Day, Get Ready: A one-day orientation and celebration that brings the whole MHCC campus together for food, fun, and a solid foundation for getting started.

Interested in learning more about MHCC’s new student retention initiatives? Visit mhcc.edu/StudentRetention for information on the NSE projects and other initiatives.

On Saturday 6/16/2018 the body of 52-year-old Bret Allen Yates was located on Social Security Beach in Fort Stevens State Park in Clatsop County, Oregon.  Yates had previously been reported missing on Wednesday 6/13/2018 when he failed to return from a fishing trip.  A search of the area was conducted for Yates on Wednesday but he was not located at that time.

There does not appear to be suspicious or any foul play related to the death. The Clatsop County Sheriff's Office was assisted by the US Coast Guard, Warrenton Police Department and Clatsop County Search and Rescue. 

Salem, Ore. – The West Salem Branch Library will be closed from July 9 through August 20, to install new exterior siding, HVAC maintenance and other minor repairs. These necessary repairs will ensure the building can continue to serve the community for the future.

During the closure, books and other materials checked out from West Salem Branch Library just before it closes will have due dates extended until the project is finished. Holds that would be normally be picked up at the West Salem Branch Library will automatically will be transferred for pickup at the Main Library for the duration of the closure.

West Salem Branch Library are welcome to use the Main Library for all library needs. Regular hours and services will resume at West Salem Branch Library on Monday, August 20. For questions regarding this closure, please call 503-588-6315.

GRESHAM, Ore.— The Gresham Police Department will be conducting a pedestrian safety operation on June 20 at the intersection of E Powell Blvd. and NE Liberty Ave. The department is hoping to raise pedestrian safety awareness for drivers and pedestrians through a two-pronged approach: education and enforcement of pedestrian right-of-way laws.

The operation will be conducted from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with warning signs posted prior to entering the pedestrian safety operation zone. Pedestrian safety education is vital to keeping our roads safe.

Motorists must stop and yield to pedestrians who are waiting to cross, or who are already crossing the roadway. Motorists are also required to stop at all crosswalks when there is a vehicle already stopped in a lane next to the lane they are traveling in. Refer to Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 811.028, failure to stop and remain stopped for a pedestrian, for specifics on the law regarding drivers. Refer to ORS Chapter 814 for laws pertaining to pedestrians.

Funding for this pedestrian safety operation is made possible through a grant from Oregon Impact and Oregon Department of Transportation. Additional operations will be scheduled during the summer and in September as the school year begins.

On Friday June 15, 2018 at approximately 5:21 p.m. Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a reported injury traffic crash where the involved were currently at a residence in the 34000 block of S. Dickey Prairie Rd., Molalla Oregon.  It was reported to our office that the crash scene, involving a 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe, was approximately 15 miles from the residence but due to a lack of cell service, all the involved made their way to a residence by flagging another motorist over.

It was reported that the crash was a single vehicle crash with multiple injuries.  Once deputies and medical personnel from Molalla Fire arrived, it was determined that 1 child, Derick Bedwell age 6, sustained fatal injuries, 2 other children, Dylan Bedwell age 6 and Rebecca Sanders age 10, sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital via AMR. A fourth passenger, Jennifer Sanders, 29 years old from Canby, sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital via Life Flight. 

The operator of the vehicle, Shane Richard Bremer (booking photo attached), 34 years old from Hubbard, accompanied two of the children to the hospital via AMR.  Mr. Bremer, who is not the father of any of the three children, sustained minor injuries and was treated at the hospital. Following investigation, Mr. Bremer was arrested and lodged at the Clackamas County Jail on the following charges:

Reckless Driving X1

Reckless Endangering X4

Assault IV X3

Assault III X1

DUII – Alcohol X1

Manslaughter I X1

The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Medical Examiners officer, American Medical Response, Life Flight Network, Molalla Police department, Molalla Fire department, and the Clackamas County Crash Reconstruction and Forensic Team. 

The investigation is continuing and anyone who may have seen Mr. Bremer on June 15, 2018 is urged to call the CCSO Tip Line at (503) 723-4949 or leave an online tip here: https://web3.clackamas.us/contact/tip.jsp 

Please reference CCSO Case #18-17131

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a home disaster on June 17, 2018, at approximately 10:00 p.m. in the 10000 block of South Beutel Rd in Oregon City, OR. This storm-related incident affected 3 adults, 2 children and pets. 

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits with toiletry items, information about recovery services, and health and mental health services. Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department.

The Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families affected by disasters, like home fires, every day. The Red Cross advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online form at www.redcross.org/GetAnAlarm to schedule an appointment.