VPD case 2021-20181. The Vancouver Police Department is requesting the public's assistance in locating Azura C. Campillo, DOB 07/24/2009. She is described as a Hispanic female, standing about 5'0 tall and weighing about 110lbs. She was last seen on 09/24/2021 at about 10:00 pm when she left her home at 14902 SE 1st St in the City of Vancouver. She was last seen wearing a white hooded sweatshirt and navy shorts. Her family is concerned for her well-being due to deteriorating mental health. Anyone with information about Campillo's whereabouts is requested to call the Vancouver Police Department, with our thanks. 

State-of-the-Art Agricultural Complex is now a Net Zero Energy Building

Salem, Ore., September 9, 2021 — Chemeketa Community College put the finishing touches on their state-of-the-art agricultural complex, also known as the Ag Hub.  Though a public grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony was slated for mid-September, the college has postponed the celebration until large, public gatherings can be accommodated safely.  However, the Ag Hub is now fully operational and students are enjoying its many features, including energy supplied by photovoltaic panels which effectively make the Ag Hub a Net Zero building. 

The goal of the Net Zero Agricultural Complex project was to transform the 14,500 square foot Academic Building within Chemeketa’s Agricultural Complex into a Net Zero Energy building. Installing photovoltaic panels within Chemeketa’s Ag Hub supports the college’s promise to the community to act “with personal and institutional accountability for the responsible use of environmental, financial, and human resources” (Chemeketa Strategic Plan, 2019-20).  Adding photovoltaic panels to the Ag Hub marks a significant milestone toward Chemeketa's goal of achieving net climate neutrality.

The solar panels were installed and functional during the summer of this year.  The total annual production of the photovoltaic system is 105.6 kWH/YR.  The college will pay for power during the winter months as solar energy production is lower than the building's consumption. However, the solar array will produce more power than the building uses during the summer months which will be credited back to the college making energy costs nearly zero for this building. With this grant awarded and the installation now complete, the Ag Hub is the college's first Net Zero structure.

Chemeketa’s President, Jessica Howard expressed her thanks to PGE’s Green Future℠ program and Renewable Development Fund stating, “We are very excited for what this will mean for our state-of-the-art, net-zero Agricultural Complex, for our students, and for our community.

“PGE is honored to support Chemeketa Community College’s path to Net Zero with this impressive new solar array. Our Green Future customers, some of which are students at the Agricultural Complex, should be proud of what can be accomplished when we all work together!” said Dan Janosec, Grants Manager.

This project has been made possible by customers participating in PGE’s Green Future℠ program through the PGE Renewable Development Fund. For more information about the Renewable Development Fund, please visit portlandgeneral.com/rdf.

• , Or

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4000 Lancaster Drive NE Sale

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

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

OREGON VIRTUAL ACADEMYNOTICE OF REGULAR SESSION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS                           SEPTEMBER 28th, 2021 @ 6:30 p.m.
Oregon Virtual Academy Board Members are hereby notified that a Regular Session of the Board will be held via teleconference 1-720-707-2699 Ext. 526309737# and via Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5033141592

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Willamette Valley wholesale grass seed distributor pleaded guilty today in federal court for knowingly concealing a scheme to defraud the Jacklin Seed Company, then a subsidiary of the J.R. Simplot Company.

ProSeeds Marketing, Inc., a company based in Jefferson, Oregon, pleaded guilty to one count of misprision of felony.

According to court documents, ProSeeds had a longstanding commercial relationship with the Jacklin Seed Company and routinely contracted with Jacklin for the purchase and sale of grass seed. These contracts were typically negotiated with a Jacklin employee acting under the supervision of Christopher Claypool, Jacklin’s general manager. In March 2021, Claypool, 53, of Spokane, Washington, was convicted of wire fraud and money laundering for perpetrating multiple schemes to defraud Jacklin. Claypool was later sentenced to three years in federal prison.

Beginning in December 2018, Claypool and the Jacklin employee conspired to divert a portion of the overseas sales Claypool negotiated on behalf of Jacklin so that Claypool and the employee could collect commissions on those sales. As part of this scheme, Claypool incorporated Green Pyramid, LLC to pose as an independent grass seed broker and accept payment of the fraudulent commissions.

In furtherance of the scheme, the Jacklin employee whom Claypool supervised arranged for ProSeeds to book sales diverted from Jacklin with mark-ups dictated by Claypool. The bulk of these mark-ups were then kicked back to Claypool. ProSeeds participated in the scheme with the aim of creating an overseas customer base. Nevertheless, the company intended to and did conceal Claypool’s scheme.

From December 2018 to August 2019, ProSeeds booked twelve diverted and bogus sales, generating more than $474,000 in mark-ups on Jacklin seed. Although the bulk of the mark-ups went to Claypool and his subordinate, ProSeeds retained more than $78,000 in revenue from the transactions.

On September 14, 2021, ProSeeds was charged by criminal information with misprision of felony. The company faces a maximum sentence of five years’ probation and a $500,000 fine. ProSeeds will be sentenced on November 29, 2021, before U.S. District Court Judge Karin J. Immergut.

As part of the plea agreement, ProSeeds has agreed to pay $78,775 in restitution to Simplot.

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

This case was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Ryan W. Bounds, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

# # #

September 24, 2021

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@state.or.us

Mill Beach health advisory lifted Sept. 24

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today lifted a public health advisory for contact with ocean water at Mill Beach, located in Curry County.

The health authority issued the advisory Sept. 23, after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.

Results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk. Officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.

Since 2003, state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

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September 24, 2021

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

Oregon reports 2,113 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 21 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 21 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 3,682, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 2,113 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 320,990.

Western States scientific safety review workgroup recommends Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine booster shot after six months for certain groups

The Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup today completed its review of the federal process and has recommended a booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine at least six months after their primary vaccination series for people older than 65 and people at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

“Everyone eligible who wants a booster will get one, and I'm committed to ensuring our most vulnerable Oregonians are protected from COVID-19, including those who are at higher risk due to systemic health and social inequities. I’d like to thank Oregonians for their patience as boosters become available while our hospitals and health care workers continue to respond to the ongoing Delta surge,” said Governor Kate Brown.

The workgroup provided its confirmation to the governors of California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington today. Click here to view the news release from Governor Kate Brown’s office.

Newest COVID-19 modeling report projects decrease in daily cases and hospitalizations

Today, the Oregon Health Authority released its latest COVID-19 forecast which shows a slowing in the decline in daily cases and hospitalizations through mid-October.

According to the report, the effective reproduction rate – the expected number of secondary cases that a single case generates – was estimated at .91 on Sept. 8, which is higher than last week’s projection. But the model still projects a decline in the estimated growth of new cases and hospitalizations over last week’s modeling scenario.

At that level of transmission, the report estimates 495 cases per 100,000 people, or an average of 1,480 daily cases and 81 hospitalizations for the two-week period between Sept. 29 and Oct. 12.

The modeling report also estimated the potential impact of a 20% increase in transmission.

Under that scenario, there would be an increase in newly diagnosed cases and hospitalizations, with an estimated average of 685 per 100,000 people, projecting an estimated average of 2,050 new cases and 118 hospitalizations over the same period.

The report also indicates that hospitals across the state are seeing declines in COVID-19 hospitalizations. However, COVID-19 bed occupancy levels remain higher than during previous surges.

The report also noted a slow increase in high-risk behaviors and protocol fatigue.

Vaccinations remain the most effective tool for slowing the spread of COVID-19. Oregonians should wear masks when in indoor public spaces and when outdoors among crowds.

To date more than 2.71 million Oregonians have received at least one dose of the safe and highly effective vaccine and 2.48 million people have completed a vaccine series.

Oregon launches self-administered case questionnaire

This week, Oregon launched a new self-administered COVID-19 case questionnaire. During times of surge, the number of cases outweighs public health’s capacity to complete a phone interview with all new cases. The new case questionnaire will shorten the phone call and enable cases to respond to most of the questions later. Local public health authorities will continue to call cases.

The local public health authorities that are offering the self-administered questionnaire will talk with the case, ask some demographic questions, refer them to essential support services for isolation if needed, determine if they are associated with any high-risk settings, and ask them to complete a self-administered case questionnaire.

Individuals will be given a link to the questionnaire to answer non-time sensitive questions. The survey is currently available in English and Spanish. Individuals who test positive should isolate in a safe place. If you need assistance call 211.

New graph shows running averages since beginning of vaccination effort

The overview tab of the Oregon COVID-19 Vaccine Daily Update dashboard includes tables which show the current 7-day running averages for total doses administered and people initiated. A new graph has been added to show these running averages over time since the beginning of the vaccination effort.

The running average for total doses administered accounts for all doses administered in Oregon, regardless of dose number (dose one versus dose two versus dose three, etc.). The running average for “people initiated” accounts for any person who received at least one shot of any COVID-19 vaccine.

The new graph will look like this example below:

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 855, which is 30 fewer than yesterday. There are 268 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is five more than yesterday.

There are 60 available adult ICU beds out of 645 total (9% availability) and 373 available adult non-ICU beds out of 4,198 (9% availability).

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

Note: Please do not visit an emergency department for COVID-19 testing, unless you require emergency care for your symptoms.

Emergency departments in Oregon are under significant strain responding to the current surge in COVID-19. You can find a test here.  

If you have a medical condition that doesn’t require emergency care, contact your provider. An urgent care center may also help you get the care you need and will save emergency departments from added strain.  

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 9,167 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry on Sept. 23. Of this total, 3,810 were administered on Sept. 23: 1,538 were initial doses, 1,736 were second doses and 491 were third doses. The remaining 5,357 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Sept. 23.

The seven-day running average is now 7,502 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered 2,943,192 doses of Pfizer Comirnaty, 1,896,037 doses of Moderna and 212,735 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines.

As of today, 2,721,546 people have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 2,488,494 people have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

Updated vaccination data are provided on Oregon’s COVID-19 data dashboards and have been updated today.

Cases and COVID-19 related deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (15), Benton (38), Clackamas (153), Clatsop (10), Columbia (32), Coos (48), Crook (38), Curry (2), Deschutes (162), Douglas (53), Grant (11), Harney (24), Hood River (6), Jackson (90), Jefferson (42), Josephine (22), Klamath (58), Lake (24), Lane (171), Lincoln (18), Linn (148), Malheur (28), Marion (193), Morrow (8), Multnomah (275), Polk (33), Tillamook (17), Umatilla (93), Union (32), Wallowa (8), Wasco (24), Washington (161) and Yamhill (76).

Oregon’s 3,662nd COVID-19 related death is a 67-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on Sept. 18 and died on Sept. 21 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,663rd COVID-19 related death is a 45-year-old woman from Douglas County who tested positive on Sept.12 and died on Sept. 23 at Oregon Health and Science University Hospital. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,664th COVID-19 related death is a 94-year-old woman from Douglas County who tested positive on Sept. 1 and died on Sept. 9 at her residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,665th COVID-19 related death is an 86-year-old woman from Douglas County who tested positive on Aug. 30 and died on Sept. 17 at her residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,666th COVID-19 related death is an 89-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on Aug. 2 and died on Sept. 4 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,667th COVID-19 related death is a 45-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on Aug. 21 and died on Sept. 22 at Mercy Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,668th COVID-19 related death is a 67-year-old woman from Douglas County who tested positive on Aug. 20 and died on Sept. 1 at her residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,669th COVID-19 related death is a 62-year-old woman from Wallowa County who tested positive on Sept. 21 and died on Sept. 20 her residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,670th COVID-19 related death is a 71-year-old woman from Umatilla County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept.16 at Good Shepherd Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,671st COVID-19 related death is an 86-year-old man from Umatilla County who tested positive on Sept. 13 and died on Sept. 16 at Good Shepherd Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,672nd COVID-19 related death is a 63-year-old woman from Multnomah County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept. 18 at Adventist Health Portland. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,673rd COVID-19 related death is a 63-year-old woman from Lane County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept. 22 PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at Riverbend. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,674th COVID-19 related death is a 60-year-old man from Lane County who tested positive on Sept. 12 and died on Sept. 11 at McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,675th COVID-19 related death is a 73-year-old woman from Josephine County who tested positive on Sept. 15 and died on Sept. 22 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,676th COVID-19 related death is a 67-year-old woman from Josephine County who tested positive on Aug. 13 and died on Sept. 18 at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,677th COVID-19 related death is a 58-year-old man from Jackson County who tested positive on Aug. 22 and died on Sept. 17 at Providence Medford Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,678th COVID-19 related death is a 58-year-old man from Jackson County who tested positive on Aug. 17 and died on Sept. 22 at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,679th COVID-19 related death is an 85-year-old man from Yamhill County who tested positive on Sept. 9 and died on Sept. 22 at Willamette Valley Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,680th COVID-19 related death is a 46-year-old woman from Yamhill County who tested positive on Aug. 26 and died on Sept. 22 at Willamette Valley Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,681st COVID-19 related death is a 30-year-old man from Washington County who tested positive on Sept. 10 and died on Sept. 22 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,682nd COVID-19 related death is a 50-year-old woman from Washington County who tested positive on Aug. 30 and died on Sept. 22 at McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations  

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

# # #

SALEM, Ore.  ̶  The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is seeking public input by Oct. 24, 2021, on its updated plan to apply for Medicaid funding to expand Oregon Project Independence and create a Family Caregiver Assistance Program. Both programs serve older adults and people with disabilities.

The application, which is being made through the Oregon Health Authority to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), is a 1115 demonstration waiver. The programs to be expanded are offered by the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities, which has issued a public notice with information on how to comment or participate in a hearing; the deadline for input is 5 p.m. on Oct. 24.

Oregon has a track record of innovating programs to serve older adults and adults with disabilities, but gaps still remain in Oregon’s system, especially for individuals with limited income. These Oregonians are at risk of requiring Medicaid when they need long-term care services and supports.

Today, nearly 800,000 Oregonians are age 65 and older. By 2030, this population is projected to increase by 25 percent. For those age 85 and older, and most at risk of needing Medicaid long-term care services and supports, the population is estimated to increase by 33 percent over the next 10 years, according to the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis. The 1115 demonstration waiver would provide the following service expansions with Medicaid funding beginning in July 2022 for a five-year period:

• Oregon Project Independence would expand to serve 4,500 Oregonians, up from about 2,350 currently served. The federal matching funds will also permit local programs to serve younger adults with disabilities, whose participation has been limited to only one-third of Oregon counties.

Oregon Project Independence services include case management, in- home support and personal care services, adult day services, home delivered meals, assisted transportation, assistive technology, and other supports.

About $5 million in general funds that have been allocated by the Oregon Legislature for this program would not be matched. This ensures that the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities can continue to serve Oregonians who
would not be eligible for the Medicaid-funded program introduced with the 1115 demonstration waiver.

• A Family Caregiver Assistance Program would be created to support qualifying Oregonians, whose family members provide them with care in their own homes, through a combination of state and federal funds. Oregonians who receive this family support would be eligible to receive services and supports totaling no more than $500 per month, with an annual increases for inflation.

Oregonians served by this program would be able to choose from a list of services including caregiver respite, adult day services, transportation, assistive technology, caregiver training and education, and other services that the consumer finds compatible with the caregiving relationship they have with their caregiver.
This program would not replace the Older Americans Act funded Family Caregiver services. Instead, it would build on that program to serve additional individuals.

Information on how to comment or participate in hearings on the application may be found on the ODHS 1115 Medicaid Demonstration Waiver webpage. In addition, the webpage includes the public notice as well as the application and fact sheets that provide more information on the hypothesis being tested, the methodology and projected cost savings.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 24, 2021
Contact: Marie Schmidt, schmidtannm@embarqmail.com

Yamhill County Farm Bureau awarded $2,000 scholarships to three students this year. Congratulations to JD Stables, Jr., Hanna VanDeWalle, and Joshua Flores! 

JD Stables, Jr. is the son of Carla and John Stables and graduated from Amity High School.  He is currently a junior at Oregon State University majoring in Rangeland Science. He has had a long history of involvement in 4-H and FFA, winning many awards for his accomplishments and leadership, including the American FFA Degree 2021. John also served as a volunteer at many fund-raising events and participated in a contest called the Oregon State Envirothon, earning 2^nd place.  His future career goals include additional educational degrees and to someday be involved in Rangeland Extension, possibly as an Extension Agent or in agricultural education.

The next recipient is a Yamhill-Carlton School graduate, Hanna VanDeWalle. Her parents are Kimberly and David VanDeWalle. Hanna is studying Agricultural Sciences at Oregon State University, making the Dean’s List. She has been active for many years in FFA, including Y-C FFA Chapter president and earning many honors, including State FFA Degree and State FFA Landscape Management Proficiency winner. She has also done an internship at Oregon Agriculture in the Classroom. Hanna’s long-term goal is to be an Ag teacher.

The final recipient is Joshua Flores, from McMinnville High School and currently a junior at Oregon State University majoring in Soil Science/Sustainable Ag and making Dean’s List. His parents are Sergio and Brenda Flores. Joshua is an Eagle Scout, a member of the Organic Growers’ Club and doing an internship with the Natural Resources Conservation Service. With the skills and knowledge earned from pursuing his degree, he plans to work with and help landowners improve the care of their resources.

Each student receives $2,000. Yamhill County Farm Bureau congratulates these exceptional students and all young people pursuing careers in support of agriculture. 

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Salem, Ore. — On September 23, 2021 at approximately 5:15 p.m., officers responded to Secor Park, 5555 Stockton AV S, on a call of a juvenile suffering from a gunshot wound. Responding officers provided first aid to the juvenile until he was transported to Salem Health. He is expected to survive. 

Officers and detectives eventually determined five juveniles, one female and four males ages 13 to 16, were in the wooded area of Secor Park. Two of the teens had handguns. One of the teens was handling one of the firearms when it discharged, and a round struck another teen below the waist. 

Two firearms were recovered at the scene. Two of the male juveniles were arrested for the following crimes and taken to the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center:

• Unlawful use of a weapon
• Unlawful possession of a firearm
• Carrying a concealed firearm
• Reckless endangering

No further information will be released regarding this case. 

# # #

September 24, 2021

The next Housing Stability Council meeting will be on Friday, October 01, 2021 from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM. The meeting will be held electronically due to the current COVID-19 health crisis. Please register for access link.

Webinar Meeting Only

Public register in advance for this webinar:

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_8w0JnFqlReaMDA7P6D3FdQ

AGENDA:

9:00: Meeting Called to Order - Roll Call 

9:05: Public Comment

9:15: Homeownership Division (pg. 01)

Emese Perfecto, Director, Homeownership

• Oregon Bond Loan Approvals: Kim Freeman, Assistant Director Homeownership Programs

9:30: Affordable Rental Housing Division (pg. 05)

Julie Cody, Director, Affordable Rental Housing

• MF Housing Transactions:
• Ankeny Woods
• 11th and Lincoln
• Splash Apartment
• Tiller Terrace Apartments
• Yaquina/Southfair
• Veteran’s NOFA Recommendations: Edward Brown, Program Analyst & Amy Cole, State Development Resources Manager

• Funding Calendar & Programmatic Frameworks: Roberto Franco, Assistant Director Development Resources & Production & Natasha Detweiler-Daby, Assistant Director, Planning and Policy

10:45: Break

11:00: 2020 Wildfire Recovery (pg. 74)

Ryan Flynn, Assistant Director, Disaster Recovery & Resilience

• 2020 Wildfire Recovery: Ryan Flynn, Assistant Director Disaster Recovery & Resiliency & Caleb Yant, Deputy Director

• Disaster Housing Tax Credit Allocation Methodology: Julie Cody, Director of Affordable Rental Housing

• MOSAIC Medford Transaction: Tai Dunson-Strane, Interim Production Manager & Julie Cody, Director Affordable Rental Housing

12:00: Report of the Director

12:15: Report of the Chair

12:30: Meeting Adjourned

Please click here to access the meeting materials packet.

SALEM, Ore.—The meeting schedules for two of the rules advisory committees convened by the Oregon Department of Forestry will change starting September 30. 

The rules advisory committees on the wildland-urban interface boundary criteria and statewide wildfire risk mapping previously met in separate sessions. The committees will be meeting jointly so members of both groups better understand how and where their input fits into the rulemaking process.

All meetings are scheduled on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will be conducted via Zoom unless announced otherwise. The first is set for September 30. Additional meetings are scheduled for October 14, October 28, November 18, December 9, December 16, January 13, January 27, and February 10. 

All meetings are open to the public and have opportunities for public comment. To access the meeting, visit https://www.oregon.gov/odf/board/pages/rac.aspx for the Zoom links. You can also sign up to receive meeting reminders and agendas. Written comment or questions about any aspect of the implementation of Senate Bill 762 may be submitted by email at any time to 762.rulemaking@oregon.gov">sb762.rulemaking@oregon.gov.

A post-meeting recording will be posted on the ODF YouTube channel. For special accommodations, please contact ODF Public Affairs at least 72 hours prior to the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@oregon.gov">forestryinformation@oregon.gov.

Background: Senate Bill 762 is comprehensive legislation passed with bipartisan support that will provide more than $220 million to help Oregon modernize and improve wildfire preparedness through three key strategies: creating fire-adapted communities, developing safe and effective response, and increasing the resiliency of Oregon's landscapes. The bill is the product of years of hard work by the Governor's Wildfire Council, the Legislature, and state agencies.

The legislation provides direction and investment to many state agencies. For the Board of Forestry and the Department of Forestry the bill, among other things, provides legislative direction regarding the wildland-urban interface; statewide fire risk mapping; prescribed fire; directed the Department to review and clarify the enforcement of rules pertaining to forestland; baseline standards for unprotected and under-protected lands in Oregon; and establishes grant programs to improve forest restoration and resiliency.

On September 23, 2021 at approximately 10:47 AM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 20 near milepost 181. 

Preliminary investigation revealed a westbound Hyundai Santa Fe, operated by John Lawrence (51) of Bend, traveled off the westbound shoulder of the roadway and struck a tree. 

Lawrence sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Hwy 20 was partially closed for 3 hours. 

OSP was assisted by ODOT

The community is invited to see the new Jim Tangeman Center, a program that serves approximately 50 students with special needs in kindergarten through 12th grade. The new building, which replaced Fir Grove Children’s Center, opened to students on Aug. 31. Tangeman Center was constructed with funds from a 2017 local bond measure.  

Dedication 

• Time: Wednesday, Sept. 29, 6:30 to 8 p.m. 
• Location: 3200 E 18th St., Vancouver, WA 98661
• A short program will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will include remarks by Principal Jeremy Berliss, Executive Director Daniel Bettis, Superintendent Jeff Snell and VPS Board President Kyle Sproul. 
• After a ribbon-cutting, guests will enjoy self-guided tours from 7 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.
• Please note: Face coverings are required. 

Building

• Architect: LSW Architects
• General contractor: Tapani Construction
• Building square footage: Approximately 22,600
• Building features: Seven classrooms, makerspace, Family-Community Resource Center/commons, learning courtyards, garden

Timeline of planning and construction

• December 2016: Teachers and staff attend a design symposium with architects to develop conceptual designs for a new building.
• February 2017: Voters approve a $458 million bond measure to rebuild and upgrade schools.
• 2017-2018: Teachers and staff participate in planning the architectural details of the new building.
• February 2020: Groundbreaking ceremony. Construction begins shortly afterward.
• August 2021: Teachers and staff move into the new building.
• Aug. 31, 2021: School opens to all students.

About Dr. Jim Tangeman

The late Dr. Tangeman was a respected, longtime VPS administrator and advocate for students with special needs and their families. Among his many accomplishments in the district and community, Dr. Tangeman drove the opening of what originally was known as Fir Grove Children’s Center, filling a gap in services for students with special needs. He also served as the school’s first principal. Tina Henry, a retired VPS special education teacher and community member, suggested the name. She noted that Tangeman “tirelessly solicited support for [Fir Grove] students after his retirement.”

For more information about bond construction projects, subscribe to our e-newsletter or visit our website.

On September 23, 2021, at approximately 4:09 P.M., members of the Oregon State Police Springfield Area Command received a menacing complaint on I-5, near milepost 189.  Troopers were advised that two vehicles were involved in a road rage incident and one of the motorists pointed a firearm at the victim vehicle during the incident.  Troopers were able to stop the vehicle on I-5 NB near milepost 205, where a high-risk stop was initiated.   The subject was taken into custody without incident.

The driver was identified as Roger Dale Brown Jr. (39) from Gresham, Oregon. 
The driver was found to be a convicted felon.  During a search of the vehicle, Troopers located four more weapons, two 45cal semi-auto pistols, a 308cal SCAR Assault rifle, and a pistol style AK47 with a 75-round drum.  All weapons were loaded with bullets in the chambers and a heavy ballistic vest with rifle-rated plates in it.  There was also a seizure of approximately $60,000.  The suspect was ultimately arrested and transported to Lane County Jail where he was lodged for Menacing, Unlawful Use of a Firearm, Felon in Possession of a Firearm (X5), Felon in Possession of Body Armor, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

Today, the House of Representatives passed the Women’s Health Protection Act (WHPA), legislation to protect abortion rights in Oregon and across the country, with Reps. Suzanne Bonamici, Peter DeFazio, Earl Blumenauer and Kurt Schrader all voting in favor of the legislation. 

Today’s vote comes three weeks after Texas’s radical 6-week abortion ban went into effect. If WHPA had been law, it could have blocked the right-wing politicians who are now preventing almost 7 million Texans from accessing essential reproductive health care. WHPA enforces the 14th Amendment’s right to abortion and establishes a statuatory right to provide and receive abortion care, prohibiting states from implementing out-of-touch and unconstitutional abortion bans and restrictions. 

Unfortunately, Rep. Cliff Bentz opposed this critical legislation, deciding to push the Republican Party’s unpopular agenda over the needs of his constituents.

Statement from Anne Udall, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette:

“While the Oregon Legislature has protected the right to safe, legal abortion in Oregon, we know that a threat to abortion access anywhere is a threat to access everywhere. In fact, if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe vs. Wade and Idaho’s trigger law goes into effect, a recent study indicates that rural Oregonians would see up to a 35% decrease in abortion access. 

“WHPA would protect the right to an abortion at the federal level and is an important step forward to protecting reproductive freedom. We look forward to Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley voting to pass this legislation in the Senate.”

Statement from Lisa Gardner, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwestern Oregon:

“Everyone deserves access to safe, legal abortion free of political interference and medically unecessary barriers. That is why today’s House passage of the Women’s Health Protection Act is good news for the patients we serve in Southwestern Oregon, and we are deeply grateful for Congressman DeFazio for standing up for our health and rights.”

“Unfortunately, Congressman Cliff Bentz turned his backs on the health and rights of Oregonians by opposing this critical legislation. Access to safe, legal abortion is supported by a majority of Oregonians, and given the ongoing threats to abortion access across the country, it’s unconscionable that he would put politics ahead over the needs of his constituents.” 

Abortion restrictions are unpopular: 79% of Americans support the right to safe, legal abortion protected under Roe vs. Wade; in addition, 64% of Oregonians voted in 2018 in support of abortion access regardless of income. The vast majority of Americans believe abortion should be legal. Nearly 1 in 4 women will have an abortion in their lifetime. While passing WHPA would not grant all people equitable access to abortion and other essential health care overnight, it is an essential step to obtaining reproductive freedom.

###

September 24, 2021

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

Brian Toups, 503-385-6542, rian.m.toups@dhsoha.state.or.us">brian.m.toups@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

Health Plan Quality Metrics Committee to meet September 28

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

When: September 28, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

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

• Join the webinar at https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1609284717?pwd=VDQ0dXlVcGE4YUcyN2dQY0tuNzFadz09
• Conference line: 669-254-5252, Meeting ID: 160 928 4717, Password: 289320.

Agenda: Welcome and Roll Call/Introductions (1:00-1:05); Review agenda and approve minutes (1:05-1:20); Public comment (1:20-1:30); Recruitment process and HPQMC by-laws (1:30-1:50); Operationalizing equity criteria for HPQMC measure menu decisions (2:00-2:55); Wrap-up/adjourn (2:55-3:00).

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

# # #

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

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

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

Vancouver, Washington – The City of Vancouver is seeking civic or business leaders with a passion for the continued revitalization of the downtown area to fill two open positions on its City Center Redevelopment Authority (CCRA) board. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 24. 

The CCRA board is responsible for overseeing downtown redevelopment consistent with the Vancouver City Center Vision (VCCV) plan. The board advises the mayor and city council on public-private partnerships, public assistance to private developments, and the business aspects of redevelopment projects and agreements in downtown Vancouver.

Applicants should have professional experience relevant to the CCRA board’s work in fields such as finance, real estate development, law or construction management. Applicants are not required to live within the city limits, but must be available for an interview with City Councilmembers on Thursday, Nov. 18. 

Board members serve four-year terms. Regular CCRA meetings are currently being held remotely at 12:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month. Additional special meetings of the board are advertised and held as needed—historically four to six times per year. Board members prepare for meetings by reviewing financial projections, legal documents and other technical information related to the projects presented at workshops and public meetings.

The open positions are currently held by individuals whose terms are expiring and may reapply. Per Vancouver City Council policy, all incumbents who wish to reapply for their positions will be re-interviewed along with any other qualifying applicants. 

Applications may be submitted online at www.cityofvancouver.us/boards. For a printed application or for further information, contact the Boards and Commission Coordinator in the City Manager’s Office at P.O. Box 1995, Vancouver, WA 98668-1995, c_coordinator@cityofvancouver.us">bc_coordinator@cityofvancouver.us, or by calling 360-487-8600.

For more information about the CCRA, including links to current and past board meeting agendas and minutes, please visit www.cityofvancouver.us/ccra.

###

Vancouver, Wash. –In July 2021, the Vancouver Police Department was one of fourteen Washington law enforcement agencies who will be receiving grants to expand mental health field response capabilities. The grant funds were awarded by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC) as a part of an existing program approved and funded by the Washington Legislature along with additional funding provided by the Washington Health Care Authority. 

As part of this 2021 partnership grant, $632,986.40 in grant funding will be made available to Sea Mar to hire three new mental health responders, in addition to the three full-time positions which were established with this grant program in 2020. The grant will also provide $4,000 for training in crisis intervention and best practices enhance program success. Vancouver Police will partner with Sea Mar to provide proactive outreach and build positive relationships to vulnerable individuals and communities with resources, treatment, and services. This year, the Vancouver Police Department will also coordinate with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Police Department and the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad Police Department to extend mental health field response services to assist these officers and the Vancouver-based communities they serve.

When safe and appropriate, police officers in the participating agencies will call out Sea Mar mental health professionals to respond to their locations in the field to provide a clinical evaluation and transfer responsibility for treatment and follow up care. The intent of the Enhanced Mobile Crisis Response Team is to provide citizens experiencing a mental health crisis with the opportunity to receive care where they are. It is also designed to divert some citizens from incarceration who have committed low level crimes while suffering a mental health crisis. 

“I am excited that we are able to further expand access mental health field response in Vancouver,” said Vancouver Police Chief James McElvain. “With police being called to assist people in crisis more often, these mental health field responders provide the most appropriate resource to someone in crisis and allow police officers the ability to focus more on policing matters where they are most needed.” 

“We are grateful for this opportunity to collaborate with WASPC and the City of Vancouver to expand our mental health mobile crisis field response program. This grant will allow us to increase field team staffing to assist law enforcement officers with emergency calls and provide early intervention to improve health and safety for individuals in crisis. This program has a positive impact for many of our most vulnerable community members, and we are glad we can continue to grow so we can help more people in the upcoming year,” said Laura Nichols, Program Manager for Sea Mar in Vancouver, Washington.

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DPSST FIELD TRAINING WORKGROUP

MEETING CANCELED

For Immediate Release                                        

^{September 24th, 2021}

Contact: Shelby Alexander (503) 378-2191

Notice of Meeting Cancelation

The Field Training Workgroup meeting scheduled for September 24, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. has been canceled.

The next Field Training Workgroup meeting is being scheduled and the date will be announced when decided.

At 12:28 this morning Portland Fire and Rescue was dispatched to the report of a building on fire at SE Alder and SE 9th Ave. When the first crews arrived they found heavy fire showing from the east side of the building. Fire crews are familiar with this building as it has been vacant for many years. Recently there have been other fires that have occurred in this building within the last few years’ most recent being in July. Due to the significant fire involvement and growth command upgraded this to 4 alarms. Crews focused their attention on the 2 adjoining buildings and were able to save both of those buildings. The fire building is mostly collapsed now and crews will be on scene most of the day to extinguish the fire. There were no reports of people inside the building and no injuries have been reported. Fire Investigators are on scene working to determine the cause of the fire. Portland Fire Chief Sara Boone said “this is one of the most hazardous buildings firefighters can face. It is so perilous that we indicate these buildings with a U marker indicating that it is an unsafe building. From the first company to arrive, and as the incident expanded, every crew on scene as well as the incident command staff made outstanding tactical and operational decisions. Crews made a valiant effort to search the basement of the fire building for potential victims in zero visibility using an anchor point and search rope. Fire conditions quickly changed as they were conducting search operations and they had to withdraw from the building. Other hazards that fire fighters faced were, building collapses, the sidewalk collapsing over the basement, as well and energized power lines coming down. Every person on scene did incredible job and I am so grateful that no one was hurt and thankful for the effort everyone displayed on this scene.”

September 23, 2021

Elisabeth Shepard, Communications Director

Elisabeth.Shepard@mcda.us

Grand Jury returns not true bill in April 16, 2021 fatal shooting by an officer after joint presentation from the DOJ and MCDA

PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt announced that upon the conclusion of the presentation of evidence, a grand jury returned a not true bill and found the use of force by a Portland Police Bureau officer that resulted in the death of 46-year old Robert Delgado was not criminal under Oregon law. The case was presented by two Multnomah County Deputy District Attorneys and two Assistant Attorneys General appointed by the Department of Justice at the request of DA Schmidt.

Officer DeLong and other officers were dispatched to Lents Park in Southeast Portland the morning of April 16, 2021, responding to a call that indicated there was a man with a gun at the park. Video recorded by a witness and presented to the grand jury showed police standing behind trees instructing Mr. Delgado — who was about 90 feet away — to put his hands up and get down on the ground. Mr. Delgado appeared agitated and was yelling at the police. Mr. Delgado then produced what the officers believed to be a gun and pointed it at them. In response, Officer DeLong fired at Mr. Delgado.

Officers then assessed whether Mr. Delgado was still moving or holding a gun. They then called for medical help and attempted to resuscitate him. Mr. Delgado was declared deceased by American Medical Response.  At the scene, investigators recovered a replica pistol that had been in Mr. Delgado’s possession.

Pursuant to ORS 132.270, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office will file a motion and request that the court authorize the release of a grand jury transcript for public review.

If the Court grants the motion, the MCDA will post the transcript to its public website.

#MCDA#

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County has implemented and currently operates eviction prevention rent assistance programs, to assist people who are low-income impacted by the pandemic. These programs have provided an unprecedented $25.2M in financial assistance to 3,447 households, paying for 25,867 months of rent and utilities since August 2020. Approximately $750,000 in financial assistance for rent and utilities is going out to about 100 additional households each week.

Referrals for 1,200 additional households to receive rent assistance including arrears will open on Monday, Sept. 27, at noon. Links and instructions to apply are below. Please note: the links will not be live until noon on Sept. 27.

All applicants will receive a submission confirmation email. Tenants must be deemed eligible in order for assistance to be provided.

• Landlord applicants: https://airtable.com/shrrKOIM977VYH0IH
• Tenant applicants: https://airtable.com/shrjao15aZyYIqPFb
• Spanish speaking tenant applicants: https://airtable.com/shrRFAEYvqZ7hKIed 

Applicants without access to internet may call, 360-695-9677 to refer by phone.

Applicants without phone or internet access may access applications through Share at the Fromhold Center located at 2306 NE Andresen Road, across from WinCo. 

Clark County continues to work with rental assistance providers to have the capacity to open additional rent assistance spots. Additional spots are scheduled to open on the following dates:

• Monday, Oct. 18, beginning at 9 a.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 3, beginning at 12 noon
• Wednesday, Nov. 17, beginning at 12 noon

Additional information, including the number of available waitlist spots and types will be made available via news release, website and social media posting, and through the Council For The Homeless website closer to the opening dates. 

It is important that landlords and tenants understand there are additional significant COVID-19 related rental assistance resources, including arrears, for low income households coming which will be made available to the community as capacity becomes available; and that based on federal and state funding requirements, any payments on behalf of tenants can only be made if the tenant remains in the unit when the payment is made.

Legal resource for tenants

Tenants seeking information about their rights should contact the Clark County Volunteer Lawyers Program: 360-334-4007 or NW Justice Project’s CLEAR program at nwjustice.org/get-legal-help or 888-201-1014 between 9:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Youth under 24 may contact the Legal Counsel for Youth and Children, 206-494-0323 ext. 715.

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On September 23^rd, 2021 at approximately 5:22 p.m. a caller reported a serious single vehicle crash on Meridian Road NE near Mt. Angel Scotts Mills Road NE in northern Marion County.  Prior to deputies arriving at the crash, the driver was pronounced deceased at the scene by emergency medical responders.

During the investigation deputies determined the 2020 Kia Sorento had been traveling north on Meridian Road near Mt. Angel Scotts Mills Road before leaving the roadway, striking a tree.

The driver has been identified as Jack Mathews (79) of Molalla.  Earlier in the day, Mathews had been reported to Molalla Police as a missing person.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by METCOM 911, Molalla Police Department, Mt. Angel Fire Department, Mt. Angel Police Department, and Willamette Valley Communications Center during this response.

Seaside, Ore. – September 24, 2021 – On Thursday September 23, 2021 at approximately 10:06 p.m., Seaside Police responded to the downtown area after officers heard what sounded like multiple gun shots being fired. At the same time, there were calls from the public reporting shots fired in the area of Avenue A and S. Columbia Street. An upper-level window at the Times Theater & Public House, located at 130 Broadway, was damaged from the gunfire. The theater was occupied at the time, however no one was injured during the incident.  
 

The Seaside Police Department is requesting assistance to help identify a suspect in this case. If you have any information concerning the incident, including surveillance video of the surrounding area from a business or residence, please contact Sgt. Josh Gregory with the Seaside Police Department at (503) 738-6311.

end of release
 

DATE:   Monday, September 27, 2021                                                      

TIME: Closed Session 5:15pm - 6:00pm Regular Session 6:00pm

LOCATION:   Hockinson School District Community Center                                                                      

ADDRESS:     17912 NE 159th St. Brush Prairie WA 98606        

LCSO Case #21-3669

65 year old Lester Youngs Whitmeyer was last known to be a few miles east of the Oakridge area near McCredie Hot Springs in June of 2021.  Whitmeyer had been staying in the area and spoke to a family member on or about June 18th.  He was officially reported as a missing person on July 2nd. 

Whitmeyer's belongings and vehicle were located in the Willamette National Forest east of Oakridge, however his whereabouts remain unknown.  The Lane County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue team continue to search the area. 

Whitmeyer (depicted right) is described as a white male adult with gray hair and brown eyes.  He stands approximately 5’10 and weighs about 210lbs.  He commonly has a beard and wears glasses.  Whitmeyer has ties to the Redmond area.    

Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is asked to please call the Lane County Sheriff's Office at 541-682-4141 opt. 1

            On Monday, June 9, 1977, sixteen year old Lliana Gay Adank and seventeen year old Eric Shawn Goldstrand, both North Eugene High School students, went to the Broken Bowl picnic grounds at Fall Creek, for an afternoon picnic and fishing outing.  When the couple failed to return home, their parents notified the Lane County Sheriff’s Office.  LCSO personnel located the female victim at the secluded picnic area. The male victim was located in the nearby brush a few hours later.  The female victim had been sexually assaulted and both victims had been shot to death. 

            Since the killings, detectives have worked to solve the case.  Initially the crime scene was searched and processed, area searches were completed and roadblocks were put in place. Over the years, numerous interviews were done, polygraphs were completed and numerous firearms were tested and bullets forensically analyzed.  Latent DNA was obtained at the crime scene and analyzed utilizing technology available at the time. Latent fingerprints from the crime scene were also analyzed and compared with the national fingerprint data base. No matches were found.  These investigative efforts afforded few leads.  However, after more than four decades, the suspect’s DNA was re-submitted in July of 2020 for analysis utilizing modernized genealogical technology. As a result of that analysis a former Lane County resident was identified and later confirmed to be the perpetrator.      

            Ronald Albert Shroy’s DNA linked him to the crimes.  Shroy was twenty three years old and a Lane County resident at the time of the crimes.  Shroy moved away from Oregon in the early 1980’s.  He was discovered to have been living in Mesa, Arizona since 2008.  As investigators were closing in and making final preparations to present the matter to a grand jury, arrest, and charge him, Shroy was involved in an unrelated domestic violence incident and took his own life.  (Feb 24, 2021)

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Team remains dedicated to investigation and solving cases such as this.  Detective Kurt Wuest was first assigned to this case in 1983.  Now, 38 years later as a volunteer cold case investigator for the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, he hopes to bring closure to the families of Lliana Adank and Eric Goldstrand.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Team is comprised of volunteers and is funded by donations made by community members. The ability for investigators to actively work these cold case investigations is made possible by these donated funds.  This funding allowed for the recent DNA work on this case to be completed.   

We would like to thank all of the agencies that assisted with this investigation, including the Lane County District Attorney’s Office, San Luis Obispo Sheriff’s Office, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.  A special thank you is also given to the Mesa Arizona Police Department, and all of the forensic scientists for their hard work in helping us solve this case. 

Anyone wishing to donate to the Cold Case Unit can do so by sending check or money order to:

Lane County Sheriff’s Office

Care of:  Cold Case Unit

125 E. 8^th Ave. 

Eugene. OR 97401

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in a Board Business Meeting on Monday, September 27, 2021 at the hour of 6:30 pm. 

NEW Virtual Meeting Link - As a Covid-19 precaution we are limiting in-person attendance at Board meetings, members of the public may join the YouTube Live stream on the date and time listed above: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXajhxrPxMclOQ6J00JUszQ.

The agenda is posted on our website at: https://www.parkrose.k12.or.us/index.php?id=275. Agenda items include, but are not limited to: Indigenous Peoples' Day, National Principal Month, OSBA School Board, English Learners 19-20 report, monthly financial report, Color Caucus & Legislative Updates, Enrollment & IDT’s, Equity Team Update, Be Smart Program, ESSER III, Covid-19 Exposure Reporting, Budget Committee Vacancy & Calendar, Board & Superintendent Goals, Handbooks & Site Councils, OSBA Nominations.   

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

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

Questions welcomed, please email: questions@parkrose.k12.or.us or leave a voice message at 503-408-2114.

Salem, Ore. — Since 2016, the City has commissioned the Community Satisfaction Survey to better understand community priorities. Insights drawn from the survey and other outreach activities help City leaders plan for the future of Salem. Survey results are one input into the City Council’s annual workplan – the City Council Policy Agenda – which provides direction to the organization and informs the City’s budget. 

The year has been challenging on many levels for most in our community, the region and the nation.  The economic and social impacts of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continue to impact Salem area residents, businesses, and those lacking shelter in our community.  In addition to ongoing tension around protests within our community, Salem residents experienced the President’s day weekend ice storm and resulting power outages, followed by extreme heat in late June.  “Feedback from the residents we serve is always helpful,” said Steve Powers, Salem City Manager.  “The City has been tested over the past year, and the survey results indicate where we have work to do.” 

Most satisfied with core City services. For most of 2021, many City services continued to be offered online.  Consistent with responses since 2016, seven of 10 residents are generally satisfied with core City services including fire and emergency services, police, parks, water, and stormwater services.  Residents also report finding it relatively easy to walk or bike in Salem, and to get a permit or pay a bill.  More residents (69%) say they are prepared for a natural disaster.  

Homelessness remains the most important issue for residents. More residents (58%) list homelessness issues as most important for Salem.  This is consistent with many communities where homelessness is a top concern, including many in the broader Portland metro region, the I-5 corridor to Eugene, and along the coast.

Optimism Continues to Decline. Optimism in the direction the City is heading continues to decline.  A majority (57%) of respondents say the decline can be attributed to a combination of City actions and circumstances beyond the City’s control.  In addition, more people are not satisfied with the value they receive for taxes and fees paid (56%).  Most (64%) feel their area receives its fair share of City services but find services are not distributed fairly across the City (47%).  While half believe Salem residents of all identities and backgrounds are treated fairly and with respect, fewer residents of color (43%) believe everyone is treated fairly and respectfully. Most residents (83%) believe it is the responsibility of all residents to ensure the community is welcoming to everyone.

Room for Improvement.  Residents find room for improvement with coordination of services for homeless residents (77%); maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, and bridges (49%); providing affordable housing (44%); City planning and development review (44%); enforcement of City codes for noise, yard upkeep, etc. (42%); and safety for people walking or biking in Salem (42%). 

The 2021 Community Satisfaction Survey was conducted from August 12 to August 16, 2021 via cell and land-line telephone calls, with an online option to both English and Spanish-speaking Salem residents. DHM Research took measures to ensure survey responses accurately represented all areas of the City and the diverse backgrounds of its residents. 

#             #             #

HILLSBORO, Ore.- On September 22, 2021, a Washington County jury found Diana Rodriguez guilty of three counts of first-degree rape, two counts of first-degree sodomy, second-degree rape, two counts of second-degree sodomy and four counts of using a child in display of sexually explicit conduct. Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman prosecuted the defendant before Washington County Circuit Court Judge Erik Buchér.

DDA Lewman proved in court that the defendant sexually abused two children for many years. The abuse began when the victims were young children and continued into their teenage years.

The abuse came to light when one of the victims called police in May of 2019. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office immediately began investigating. The victims were interviewed by experts at CARES Northwest where they gave additional information on the abuse they endured.

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the investigative work of Detective Mark Povolny of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. This office also commends the work of CARES Northwest and the Oregon Department of Human Services. Finally, this prosecution would not have been possible without the bravery shown by the victim in reporting the abuse to law enforcement.

A co-defendant, Cupertino Juarez-Hernandez, was also convicted for his role in these crimes and was sentenced to 55 years in prison. 

A sentencing hearing for Ms. Rodriguez is scheduled for November 2, 2021. 

Vancouver, Washington—Vancouver City Manager Eric Holmes has received a successful performance evaluation for 2020-2021, with the Vancouver City Council noting his excellent performance during the review period. 

“Eric’s consistent and innovative leadership this past year has served Vancouver exceptionally well,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “During a very uncertain time in our history, Eric has minimized disruptions in our services, assured our financial health, attracted new high caliber leaders to the city, while ensuring continued progress on an ambitious set of priorities set by the city council.” 

The evaluation included a “360-degree” survey completed by 34 individuals who work with Holmes both inside the city organization and across community partner agencies. Holmes was ranked in the 90^th percentile overall by those who work with him across three areas of focus: Council and policy, community and city organization.  City council relied on this survey, a progress update prepared by Holmes on council priorities, as well as their own experience over the past year in making the performance assessment.

In the review, council highlighted Holmes’ key strengths, including: 

• Decisive and steady leadership through the unprecedented impact and early recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, assuring operational and financial resilience of the city organization
• Maintaining strong and effective communication with council that supports clarity in policy direction 
• Engaging the community to assure transparency and accountability in changes in the Vancouver Police Department, including establishing a police camera program
• Establishing and pursuing a pipeline of transformative community projects, including The Heights District, the Operations Center replacement and a community arts facility
• Advancing the city’s diversity, equity and inclusion objectives, as well as the city’s climate action efforts
• Taking an agile response to homelessness, transitioning the former Navigation Center to an alternative use, and developing a supportive campsite pilot program
• Enhancing city leadership capacity by attracting highly experienced leaders to his executive team who add depth and opportunities for succession planning
• Guiding record-setting population growth that added nearly 5,000 new residents to Vancouver, as well as significant new commercial and industrial development

In addition, Holmes was recognized by his peer city managers in the state this year when he was presented with the Washington City/County Management Association’s Excellence Award for City Management, which recognizes an outstanding manager who has enhanced the effectiveness of local elected officials and consistently initiated creative and successful programs. 

Holmes’ performance review also identifies areas for continued focus in the year ahead. These focus areas—aligned with council priorities—include enhancing employee development and organizational effectiveness, supporting a positive and productive corporate culture in the face of change, and working with the council and community to deliver a new strategic plan to guide the city forward over the next several years. 

In recognition of his performance, city council will consider an addendum to Holmes’ employment agreement on Sept. 27.

###

September 23, 2021

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

Oregon is prepared to provide COVID-19 booster shots to eligible people, but state health officials ask Oregonians to be patient as health care providers battle ongoing COVID-19 surge

(Salem – September 23, 2021) Oregon is ready to make booster shots available to people who are eligible to receive one, if the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup approves a federal recommendation to make booster shots of the Pfizer vaccine available to seniors and people in high-risk categories.

While Oregon currently has an adequate supply of Pfizer vaccines, state health officials cautioned that provider capacity could mean that booster shots may not be available on-demand in some communities.

Health officials continued to emphasize that medical evidence shows that all three COVID-19 vaccines are safe and highly effective at preventing severe COVID-19 illness and death. The recommended Pfizer booster maintains the Pfizer vaccine’s long-term effectiveness, especially for older adults.

Public health officials also urged all unvaccinated Oregonians to talk to their health provider about getting immunized against COVID-19. Dr. Tom Jeanne, Deputy State Epidemiologist said: “The Delta variant continues to spread, putting more people at risk, including younger people. A vaccination is the best way to keep yourself and the people you care about safe from COVID-19.”

Earlier today, a panel of medical and public health experts convened by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended a booster dose of the Pfizer vaccine for people aged 65 and older, as well as residents of long-term care facilities and people 18 and older who have certain underlying conditions – all of whom had received their second dose of the vaccine at least 6 months ago.

The Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup convenes later today to consider the federal recommendations.

People vaccinated with the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines are not currently eligible to receive a booster, though federal health officials expect to consider a booster recommendation in coming weeks, based on more data. Dr. Melissa Sutton, Medical Director of Respiratory Viral Pathogens at OHA said, “Current evidence tells us that the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines continue to offer strong protection against the most serious COVID-19 outcomes.”

People who are immunocompromised, and were vaccinated at least one month ago, currently qualify for a third dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, based on previous recommendations approved by federal and Western States medical experts.

According to the CDC’s panel, people who are recommended to receive a Pfizer booster are:

• People 65 or older who received their second dose of Pfizer vaccine at least 6 months ago.
• Residents of long-term care facilities who received their second dose of Pfizer vaccine at least 6 months ago.
• People 50-64 who have medical conditions that put them at-risk of developing severe COVID-19 disease and received their second dose of Pfizer vaccine at least 6 months ago.
• People 18 to 49 years old who have underlying health conditions that make them vulnerable to COVID-19, and who received their second dose of Pfizer vaccine at least 6 months ago, would also be eligible based on their individual benefits and risks. (State public health doctors emphasized that findings from current data show that vaccine effectiveness against hospitalization and death remains high in people under the age of 65.)

State health officials estimate the population of Oregonians who are potentially eligible for a Pfizer booster immediately could exceed 230,000 people, with more becoming eligible as they reach the 6-month threshold since they completed their vaccination series. Across Oregon, vaccination sites currently have approximately 460,000 Pfizer doses in stock.

Eligible Oregonians in these categories could seek booster shots through their health care provider or local pharmacy, once approved by the Western States Safety Review panel.

Eligible residents in long-term care facilities, including seniors, should receive their boosters through vaccination plans developed between their homes and pharmacies. State officials are also planning ways to reach home-bound seniors, people with disabilities and other vulnerable populations.

In some regions of the state, providers and local public health officials again may set up large mass vaccination sites. However, state officials urged eligible Oregonians to be patient as public health and health care providers administer vaccines and fight the most recent wave of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths, brought on by the highly transmissible Delta variant.

OHA Director Patrick Allen said, “Our ability to deliver Pfizer boosters isn’t limited by the availability of doses, but by capacity of health care providers to administer them at the same time they’re treating hundreds of new cases each day, driven by the Delta variant which is running rampant largely among unvaccinated Oregonians. I’m grateful for the dedication and resilience of Oregon’s health care community. I ask Oregonians to recognize that you may not have a booster appointment waiting for you the day you become eligible, but you will get one. In the meantime, your vaccine continues to protect you from COVID-19, no matter what vaccination you’ve received.”

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September 23, 2021

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

Oregon reports 1,836 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 12 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 12 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 3,661, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 1,836 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 318,914.

OHA releases new COVID-19 vaccine breakthrough report

OHA’s most recent update on COVID-19 breakthrough cases, released today, found that 76.8% of the 11,994 reported COVID-19 cases between Sept. 12 through Sept. 18 occurred in people who were unvaccinated.

There were 2,778 breakthrough cases, accounting for 23.2% of all cases.

The average age of the breakthrough cases during that period was 49. Eighty-four cases involved residents of care facilities, senior living communities or other congregate care settings. There were 68 breakthrough cases in people aged 12 to 17.

To date, there have been 22,879 COVID-19 vaccine breakthrough cases in Oregon. The average age of all cases is 48. Breakthrough cases have been reported in all 36 counties.

Cases of COVID-19 are far more common in unvaccinated people. The report shows that the rate of COVID-19 in unvaccinated people during the past week was currently approximately four times higher than in vaccinated people.

To date, 4.5% of all vaccine breakthrough cases have been hospitalized and 0.9% have died. The average age of the people who died was 81.

Vaccination remains the most effective tool to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The number of vaccine breakthrough cases identified in Oregon remains very small when compared to the more than 2.71 million Oregonians who have completed a COVID-19 vaccination series.

The latest breakthrough report can be found here.

Pediatric dashboard update

Today, OHA published additional features to the dashboard report of pediatric COVID-19 case data in Oregon. This dashboard is published weekly on Thursdays with the most recent full week’s (Sun. through Sat.) data.

Here are some key findings:

• In addition to reporting the cumulative percent of cases that are pediatric, the dashboard now shows these data by week. People under age 18 were disproportionately represented in the cases with illness onset last week (9/12/2021 – 9/18/2021).
• Pediatric case rates are highest among people ages 12-17 at 283.2 cases per 100,000, followed closely by people ages 6-11 at 259.2 cases per 100,000.
• In addition to reporting cumulative case rates by race or ethnicity, the dashboard now shows these data by week. This applies to weeks with 10 or more cases by race or ethnicity. Weekly inequities across case rates have decreased, but continue to persist.
  • The pediatric population estimates by race and ethnicity have been updated using data from the 2019 Public Use Microdata Sample (PUMS) from the American Community Survey. This change provides data that are more precise. As a result, case rate calculations by race and ethnicity have been updated.

“OHA understands children in communities of color have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19 and have experienced more cases than White children. We are working to address this by partnering with community organizations to hold testing and vaccine webinars and events across the state, and provide information and services in a variety of languages,” said Dr. Bukhosi Dube, senior health advisor, OHA. “While we are pleased the gap is closing, we continue to expand our work to ensure all those living in Oregon have access to vital vaccines and healthcare.”

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 885, which is 54 fewer than yesterday. There are 263 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is seven fewer than yesterday.

There are 56 available adult ICU beds out of 642 total (9% availability) and 381 available adult non-ICU beds out of 4,234 (9% availability).

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

Note: Please do not visit an emergency department for COVID-19 testing, unless you require emergency care for your symptoms.

Emergency departments in Oregon are under significant strain responding to the current surge in COVID-19. You can find a test here.  

If you have a medical condition that doesn’t require emergency care, contact your provider. An urgent care center may also help you get the care you need and will save emergency departments from added strain.  

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 7,964 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry on Sept. 22. Of this total, 3,924 were administered on Sept. 22: 1,612 were initial doses, 1,762 were second doses and 505 were third doses. The remaining 4,040 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Sept. 22.

The seven-day running average is now 7,713 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered 2,937,158 doses of Pfizer Comirnaty, 1,893,550 doses of Moderna and 212,116 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines.

As of today, 2,717,918 people have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 2,483,452 people have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

Updated vaccination data are provided on Oregon’s COVID-19 data dashboards and have been updated today.

Vaccines will help us ‘get to freedom’ 

Sharon Porter, a retired educator in La Grande, did not hesitate at all to get the COVID-19 vaccine. As a cancer patient, Sharon is grateful for the treatments that have kept her alive for many years. 

Sharon Porter

Because Sharon is immunocompromised, she got a third dose of the vaccine in August and appreciates “that extra measure of protection.” But she is still careful.   

Sharon says, “When I am in close proximity to an unmasked person, I get a bit panicked. I will not enter a store where masks are not worn. I feel sad about that because I want to support local business.”   

Sharon is also grateful when people “care enough for people like me to mask up. I care about others and want to get past all this. We will not get to freedom until we all cooperate and get vaccinated, if medically able.”  

To Sharon, getting fully vaccinated is a powerful way “to help others in our community. That is celebration enough!”  

You can read the full story on OHA Vaccine News.  

Vaccines are safe and the most effective way to protect us against serious illness and hospitalizations due to COVID-19. Find more information and a vaccine site near you today by visiting our Find a COVID-19 Vaccine in Oregon web page.

Cases and COVID-19 deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (9), Benton (22), Clackamas (133), Clatsop (18), Columbia (18), Coos (66), Crook (20), Curry (2), Deschutes (185), Douglas (67), Gilliam (2), Grant (4), Harney (11), Hood River (10), Jackson (90), Jefferson (39), Josephine (34), Klamath (49), Lake (11), Lane (141), Lincoln (8), Linn (65), Malheur (26), Marion (166), Morrow (7), Multnomah (231), Polk (48), Sherman (4), Tillamook (4), Umatilla (105), Union (13), Wallowa (11), Wasco (15), Washington (148) and Yamhill (54).

Oregon’s 3,650th COVID-19 related death is a 58-year-old woman from Lane County who tested positive on Sept. 10 and died on Sept. 21 at Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,651st COVID-19 related death is a 59-year-old woman from Lane County who tested positive on Sept. 7 and died on Sept. 21 at Mckenzie-Willamette Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,652nd COVID-19 related death is a 59-year-old woman from Lane County who tested positive on Sept. 6 and died on Sept. 21 at Mckenzie-Willamette Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,653rd COVID-19 related death is a 41-year-old man from Washington County who tested positive on Sept. 17 and died on Sept.17 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,654th COVID-19 related death is a 70-year-old woman from Umatilla County who tested positive on Sept. 5 and died on Sept. 19 at St. Anthony Hospital. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,655th COVID-19 related death is a 93-year-old man from Marion County who tested positive on Sept. 10 and died on Sept. 21 at Salem Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,656th COVID-19 related death is a 79-year-old man from Lane County who tested positive on Sept. 15 and died on Sept. 20 at Mckenzie-Willamette Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,657th COVID-19 related death is an 81-year-old man from Klamath County who tested positive on Sept. 7 and died on Sept. 19 at Sky Lakes Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,658th COVID-19 related death is an 83-year-old man from Jackson County who tested positive on Sept. 8 and died on Sept. 20 at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,659th COVID-19 related death is a 63-year-old man from Jackson County who tested positive on Aug. 20 and died on Sept. 21 at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,660th COVID-19 related death is a 72-year-old man from Jackson County who tested positive on Aug. 6 and died on Sept. 10 at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,661st COVID-19 related death is an 84-year-old woman from Clatsop County who tested positive on Sept. 11 and died on Sept. 18 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Note: More information is known about Oregon’s 3,646th COVID-19 related death, a 43-year-old woman from Linn County who tested positive on Sept. 17 and died on Sept. 16. She was originally reported as a Marion County resident.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations  

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

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The FBI’s Portland Field Office and Oregon State Police – working with the FBI’s Behavioral Threat Assessment Center (BTAC) – are joining with law enforcement agencies, educators, mental health practitioners, and community organizations to form threat assessment teams designed to bolster Oregonians’ ability to identify and stop violent threats. 

This initiative has two parts: 1) a series of regional workshops throughout the state; and 2) one-on-one consultations with communities interested in FBI threat assessment research as they consider forming threat assessment teams.

The workshops – held in July – brought together more than 350 people from a variety of disciplines to learn how to identify those who are on a “pathway of violence” and to consider what options are available as they work disrupt a threat. (See list of workshop co-sponsors below.)

“It is very important that the FBI, working with OSP, give our partners the tools they need to identify and stop threatening behavior. While law enforcement has a role to play, these teams are really a community-led effort that draws on the strengths of educators, counselors, social service providers, and many others to be effective. When we have all of those partners at the table, research has shown that threat assessment teams are the most effective way to stop acts of mass violence,” said Kieran L. Ramsey, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon.  

Years of experience and research by the FBI’s Behavioral Threat Assessment Center  show that, while the motivators and drivers for violence are highly individualized, those who commit violence travel an observable and discernible pathway from thought to action. In almost all situations, a “bystander”(such as family, friends, classmates, or co-workers) will have noticed changes in behavior. In many cases, a bystander reports that concerning behavior to non-law enforcement authority figures, such as a school counselor, a coach, a local religious leader. As such, community members need clear and sometimes multiple avenues for potential reporting. 

How to Assist

Community members interested in learning more about how to help identify and stop violent threats can find more information in the FBI’s Making Prevention a Reality: Identifying, Assessing, and Managing the Threat of Targeted Attacks. 

Anyone with information about a potential threat or act of violence should call 911 (in an emergency) or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Information may also be submitted online at tips.fbi.gov. 

Any Oregon agency, educator, mental health organization or service-provider group interested in learning more about threat assessment teams should contact the FBI in Oregon at (503) 224-4181.

Workshop Co-Sponsors

The threat assessment workshops took place in Lincoln City (July 12-13, 2021); Canyonville (July 14-15, 2021); and La Grande (July 19-20, 2021). Co-sponsors of these events included: Cow Creek Tribal Gaming Commission, Seven Feathers Casino Resort, Eastern Oregon University, Northwest Chapter of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals, Oregon Department of Human Services, Oregon Department of Justice, Oregon Office of Emergency Management, Siletz Tribal Gaming Commission, Chinook Winds Casino Resort, and Oregon Peace Officers Association. 

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Additional resources:

• FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit: https://www.fbi.gov/services/cirg
• FBI Active Shooter resources: www.fbi.gov/activeshooter
• Lone Offender Terrorism Report: https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/lone-offender-terrorism-report-111319.pdf/view
• Active Shooter Incidents in the United States in 2020 - https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/active-shooter-incidents-in-the-us-2020-070121.pdf/view

On September 21, 2021 Dallas Police learned of, and began investigating, potential threats that students were allegedly making towards each other at Dallas High School. The investigation involved talking with numerous students and staff.

As the investigation progressed, more allegations were discovered and investigators learned additional students were possibly involved. All allegations identified were appropriately investigated.

Some allegations revolved around students making verbal threats to shoot each other. Police and school staff ultimately determined there were no immediate threats or dangers posed to staff or students.

After the initial response, a Dallas PD detective and school staff spent at least ten hours over the past two days interviewing everyone involved. The investigation determined there are no credible threat towards any students or staff at this time. It was also determined that the involved persons did not have firearms on school property, nor did they have known access to firearms.

As of September 23, 2021, after numerous interviews with the youth involved and their parents, officials learned that the images first posted on social media were of replica firearms rather than authentic firearms. The police department learned today that one of the youth involved yesterday made an additional post last night, which included an image of ammunition and what appears to be the barrel of an actual pistol.

Investigators have followed-up today to learn more about the image posted late yesterday. The youth admitted to posting the picture, claiming to have obtained the photo several months ago. Investigators, working closely with the involved parents, were not able to determine the source of the photo, nor find evidence that the youth actually had possession of any real firearm or ammunition in the recent past.

The primary suspect in this matter is being charged with Disorderly Conduct and investigators are in communication with Polk County Juvenile Department as to the youth’s disposition.

The youth who posted the most recent photo is not from Dallas and has had his privilege to attend school at the Dallas School District revoked; and, he has been trespassed from all Dallas School District property. The other youth has been removed from school by the parents. Whether he will resume attending in the Dallas School District in the future is still being determined.

This investigation is continuing. Investigators are continuing to work closely with the school and parents to investigate this matter and hold accountable those who are responsible for these alarming events. Dallas PD regularly works closely with school district officials to make every effort to ensure safety in the schools.

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 23, 2021

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER REVEALED 2021 BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP AWARDS' HONOREES

During the live streamed award ceremony, the Chamber’s 2021-2022 Board was installed.   

Vancouver, WA- The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) announced the 2021 Business & Leadership Awards’ recipients in a virtual ceremony, presented by the Port of Vancouver USA. Six outstanding business owners and leaders were recognized for their dedication and service to the community this past year.  

This year’s winners were awarded for their contributions in six categories that included: John S. McKibbin Leadership, Community Champion, Small Business, Statesperson, Start-Up to Watch, and Large Business. 

The John S. McKibbin Leadership Legacy Award went to the President of the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington Jennifer Rhoads. Jennifer has had a rich history in a variety of positions in the financial sector leading up to her focus on philanthropy and efforts in interrupting poverty in the region while at the Community Foundation. This award recognizes an individual each year who similarly demonstrates a positive influence across many sectors of the community.  

The Community Champion Award’s recipient was Horenstein Law Group, who displayed through the pandemic a commitment to the region and acted like a champion offering their expertise and guidance to business owners as they navigated their way through the last year and a half, saving countless businesses.

The Small Business Award went to Delta Direct Care, a Battle Ground business that continuously seeks to help companies and community. Last year, they stepped up to partner with local community members and non-profits to provide vaccine pop ups.

This year’s Statesperson Award was given to the Director and Health Officer of Clark County Public Health Dr. Alan Melnick. During 2020, when the region was experiencing the evolving threat of COVID-19, Dr. Melnick ceaselessly advocated for the health and safety of the people of Clark County, remaining committed to service, communication, and equanimity.

GVC also recognized during the event the company Sprout Partners as the Start – Up to Watch. This award looks at those businesses that are up to their first five years and recognizes one that is emblematic of tenacity, vision, and strong business practices.

Finally, LSW Architects was awarded as the Large Business of the Year for creating a sustainable community through creative solutions and design. This honor is given to an organization with over 25 employees that is growing in market share, growing in sales, creating more jobs for the community, and giving back in a way that helps make the community thrive.

About the honorees, GVC President/CEO John McDonagh said, “These six organizations and individuals represent the fabric of our business community in SW Washington. It is an honor for the Greater Vancouver Chamber to be able to shine a light on these six so everyone has the opportunity to understand it takes us all to create our community.

“Just as our country cheered and celebrated the strength and dedication of our Olympic and Paralympic athletes who competed in Tokyo this summer, we are excited to turn our focus and recognize and cheer on our regions’ business and community champions,” added McDonagh.

In honor of the Tokyo Olympics, this year’s awards ceremony featured, as Emcee and Keynote speaker, former U.S. Olympian, Johnny Quinn. His keynote, “Think like and Olympian”, covered an Olympian’s perspective on perseverance and how to overcome adversity. Quinn concluded his speech encouraging the audience to consider if they are “available” to finding unexpected opportunities to serve the community, that includes clients, family, and the people they interact with every day. “I am going to let you know a secret. Ultra-performers, men and women, in sports and business, they figured this out. They considered this question and they answered ‘yes’ to the question, Are you available?,” Quinn, who is a small business owner himself, concluded. To watch Johnny Quinn's speech, visit: https://youtu.be/VaJ8RPVT4vo

During the event, the Chamber’s 2021-2022 Board was installed. The Officers and Executive Board for the year will be Chair Tamara Fuller of Capacity Commercial; Chair Elect John Dombroski of Chick-fil-A Cascade Park; Vice Chair Julianna Marler of Port of Vancouver USA; Secretary/Treasurer Lisa Goecke of Perkins & Co.; and Immediate Past Chair Kevin Getch of Webfor.   

The livestream, available on Facebook Live, was at no cost, a courtesy made possible by event sponsors, including: Presenting Sponsor, Port of Vancouver USA; Supporting Sponsors, PeaceHealth and Cal Portland; Virtual Platform Sponsor, ilani; Media Sponsor, The Columbian; and Award Sponsors, Riverview Community Bank, NW Natural, HAPO Community Credit Union, PacificSource Health Plans, The PEAK Fleet, and Perkins & Co.  

For more information about the awards and sponsorship opportunities for next year, please contact the Chamber at Chamber@VancouverUSA.com">YourChamber@VancouverUSA.com or go to VancouverUSA.com/Annual-Events. 

About the Business & Leadership Awards

Wanting to recognize those businesses who exemplified the motto of the Greater Vancouver Chamber, Moving Business Forward, the Business & Leadership Awards were first introduced in 2012. For nine years, the southwest Washington business community has nominated outstanding companies and individuals for recognition.

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

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

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Media Assets:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1_QuBR4Z4jgnAuCXFXOtrC96Y1HPids8w?usp=sharing

Official Event Link:

2021 Business & Leadership Awards

Vancouver, Wash. – Backed by a new state law and grant funding, the City of Vancouver is working with state of Washington and Clark County agencies to help address litter along key highway ramps.

Regular litter cleanups began this month along selected state highway ramps within the city, the result of Vancouver Public Works’ close collaboration with Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), state Department of Ecology and Clark County District Court’s Community Restitution Division. The ramp cleanups are currently anticipated to continue approximately twice per month through fall and winter of 2021, with this work extending into 2022.

Maintaining a safe working zone is critical to this cleanup effort. Drivers are reminded to slow down, drive alert and leave ample room for crews working along the highway ramps. 

This summer, City of Vancouver Public Works was awarded a $40,000 state Department of Ecology Community Litter Cleanup grant for litter abatement along WSDOT ramps over the next two years. Public Works staff are providing traffic control, data collection, proper disposal/recycling and project oversight, while the District Court’s Community Restitution Division crews are picking up the litter along ramps. The grant was created through recent state legislation – Welcome to Washington – Litter Cleanup Act (SB5093) –  and only pertains to highway ramps.

Julie Gilbertson, solid waste supervisor with the Vancouver Public Works, said the added ramp cleanups reflect the city’s ongoing efforts to address litter in and around the community. Since 2017, Vancouver Public Works’ Solid Waste Utility has helped fund Share’s innovative Talkin’ Trash program to clean up litter along city rights-of-ways and city properties throughout Vancouver while providing individuals experiencing homelessness with positive job and life skills training. Supported by Solid Waste Utility funding and the city’s volunteer program, the city has also launched a new Litter Stewards pilot program in response to local residents’ interest in helping to clean up the community.

Litter is preventable, and cleanups are time-consuming and costly. Despite this, food wrappers, cans and other litter are commonly seen along roadways everywhere. The Department of Ecology estimates that more than 12 million pounds of litter is tossed or blown onto our highways each year.

Help keep Washington litter free. Keep a bag in your vehicle to collect trash and unwanted materials and properly dispose of these at home or in designated trash/recycling containers. Remember that whether moving or going to a transfer station, all loads must be secured when transporting materials. Learn more here about statewide efforts to prevent and address roadside litter.

This afternoon at 12:17, Gaston Firefighters were dispatched to a reported grass fire on SW Hartley Road in the rural community of Laurelwood, approximately 3 miles outside of Gaston. Firefighters arrived shortly later to find a fire burning in a field, approximately one acre in size. The fire was burning towards an old barn and house, but firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading further. 
 

In total, the fire burned about one and a quarter acre of grass and part of a neighboring garden. The fire was started by the property family member smoking out gophers in the field with a propane torch. 
 

The calendar might say Fall, but we are still in fire season and burning is still banned in our area until further notice. Only small recreational fires are allowed when conducted in a safe manor with a water source and shovel ready to be used. 
 

Gaston Fire District was assisted on scene by Forest Grove Fire & Rescue. Cornelius Fire Department and Yamhill Fire District also responded, but were canceled once the fire was extinguished. 

Salem, OR – October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). This year, more than ever, as employers have shuttered doors or moved to remote work, people with disabilities have been disproportionately impacted. Their loss of employment was at a higher rate than their peers without disabilities. 

“We are all better off when everyone, including Oregonians with disabilities, can contribute to their community and economy,” said Dacia Johnson, Executive Director of Oregon Commission for the Blind. 

The theme for NDEAM 2021, “America’s Recovery: Powered by Inclusion,” reflects the importance of ensuring that people with disabilities have full access to employment and community involvement during the national recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Oregon Commission for the Blind (OCB) and Oregon Department of Education (ODE) invite the public to a series of free webinars around the theme of inclusion. The series schedule and subjects are: 

• Tuesday, Oct. 5 – Employment Innovations in the time of COVID-19 
• Tuesday, Oct. 12 – Youth Employment Journey 
• Tuesday, Oct. 19 – Maximizing Hours: How to Navigate Services
• Tuesday, Oct. 26 – Workforce Recovery: Powered by Inclusion (Discussion with business leaders)

More information on how to register can be found on the ODHS website. 

“Through the challenges of the past few years, the disability community has shown its strength,” said Lilia Teninty, director of the ODHS’ Office of Developmental Disabilities Services. “We invite those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, advocates, partners, and the larger community to join these webinars so, together, we can build an economy that includes all members of our community.”

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) will host the Statewide Symposium on Youth Experiencing Homelessness Programming conference on Oct. 29, 2021. 

This virtual event seeks to renew community involvement surrounding youth experiencing homelessness in Oregon through a half-day of training, information sharing, and action planning to launch the next phase of supports and services.

The Statewide Symposium on Youth Experiencing Homelessness Programming is intended for all organizations and individuals interested in or involved with planning for housing instability, homeless systems and youth services.

Topics that will be discussed include:

• The state of youth homelessness in Oregon and across the country
• In-depth data discussion and results from the Statewide Homeless Youth Needs Assessment 
• State Legislative Updates from the 2021 session surrounding recently passed bills affecting youth experiencing homelessness
• Information on Direct Cash Transfer Program 
• Recommendations for a statewide Youth Action Board from young leaders across Oregon

To register online for the conference visit lensco.la/yehp. This is a free event. 

Visit https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/CHILDREN/Homeless-Youth/Pages/Training.aspx for more information. 

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On September 19, 2021, at approximately 6:03 P.M, a motorcyclist was shot by an occupant of a passing vehicle.  The shooting occurred on Highway 101 near milepost 289 south of Langlois, Oregon.  Both the motorcycle and suspect vehicle were traveling southbound.  The suspect vehicle is a black four-door hatchback, possibly a Volkswagen.  The attached photos are of the actual suspect vehicle.  

The suspect vehicle had at least two occupants, a male, and a female, both estimated to be in their 20’s or 30’s.  The male suspect is described as tall and thin with short dark hair and a dark complexion.  The female suspect is described as white with short hair with pink or purple highlights.

OSP is requesting anyone with information regarding this shooting or any information regarding the suspect vehicle to contact the Oregon State Police Southern Command Center at 1-800-442-2068 or OSP and refer to Case #: SP21-268655.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) approved policy changes to the Community Solar Program intended to increase residential and low-income customer enrollments in the program. 

The Community Solar Program provides customers of Portland General Electric (PGE), Pacific Power, and Idaho Power the ability to subscribe to a qualified solar project of their choice and receive a credit on electric utility bills for their portion of the energy generated. It is designed for those customers who lack access to other solar generation programs due to renting in place of owning property, having a shaded roof, being unable to afford the upfront cost of installing a solar energy system, among others.

“The outcomes since the launch of this program have amplified the need to make policy changes to better achieve the Oregon Legislature’s intent and improve access to solar energy for residential and low-income Oregonians,” said Megan Decker, PUC Chair. 

In 2020, the Community Solar Program launched with half of PGE and Pacific Power’s allotment of the program’s intended 160 MW of capacity being made available (46.57 and 32.30 MW respectively), along with all of the capacity allotted to Idaho Power (3.28 MW). 

In a public meeting this week, the PUC approved the release of the remaining 79 MW of capacity for Pacific Power and PGE. To increase the participation of residential customers, the PUC approved the requirement that 50 percent of each project’s capacity be subscribed by residential customers. The PUC also increased the discount for low income subscribers from 20 percent to 40 percent.

“The PUC’s staff worked hard with program partners and the community to find a way to make this program a more viable option for low-income residents,” added Decker. “We approved their recommendation because supporting access to solar for all Oregonians is an important outcome sought by the Oregon legislature.”

Other policy changes approved by the PUC include:

• Reducing the bill credit for participating non-residential customers to 90 percent of the customer’s retail rate to minimize the cost impact to ratepayers.
• Adding an annual 2 percent escalator on the bill credit rate to support subscribing more residential customers and to reflect expectations that retail electricity rates will increase over time.
• Retaining the 25 percent carve-out for community-based projects, to ensure that smaller, more innovative projects and projects managed by local non-profit organizations have an opportunity to participate.

In approving the program changes, the Commissioners also expressed concerns about the program costs and outcomes.  “While we agreed to allow the adjusted program to move forward in order to capture more residential customers, including low-income customers, we will not further expand the program until all existing capacity is subscribed, including capacity reserved for small, community-based programs. The legislative goals of the program are challenging to balance with its current design, which may need to change significantly before it could be expanded further,” Decker concluded.

In 2016, the Oregon Legislature passed Senate Bill 1547, which directed the PUC to establish a Community Solar Program for Oregon customers of Idaho Power, Pacific Power, and PGE. The PUC administers the program in partnership with Energy Solutions, Energy Trust of Oregon, and Community Energy Project. 

For additional information about the Oregon Community Solar Program, including how to participate, visit www.oregoncsp.org or call 800-481-0510.

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The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric, natural gas and telephone utilities, as well as select water companies. The PUC mission is to ensure Oregon utility customers have access to safe, reliable, and high quality utility services at just and reasonable rates, which is accomplished through thorough analysis and independent decision-making conducted in an open and fair process.

On September 23, 2021 at approximately 2:14 AM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a Commercial Motor Vehicle crash on Interstate 84 near milepost 318.

Preliminary investigation revealed a Freightliner CMV pulling a set of double trailers, operated by William Frakes (49) of Nampa, ID was westbound when it left the roadway and overturned. 

Frakes sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

One lane of I-84 westbound is still currently closed. 

OSP was assisted by Baker County Sheriff’s Department and ODOT.

Sept. 23, 2021

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@state.or.us

Mill Beach health advisory issued Sept. 23

OHA issues advisory due to high bacteria levels

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is issuing a public health advisory today for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Mill Beach in Curry County. People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.

Visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria tend to be higher in these types of water sources.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including:

• Stormwater runoff.
• Sewer overflows.
• Failing septic systems.
• Animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife.

Even if there is no advisory in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.

Ocean waters will be re-tested after an advisory is issued. Once bacteria levels are at a safe level, OHA will notify the public that the advisory is lifted.

While this advisory is in effect at Mill Beach, state officials continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk even during an advisory.

For the most recent information on advisories, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0482, or 877-290-6767 (toll-free).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE:     September 23, 2021

Salem, Ore. — Patrol officers responded to the 3700 block of Portland RD NE yesterday afternoon, September 22, 2021, on the report of shots fired into an occupied vehicle.

Fortunately, none of the occupants were injured.

Officers quickly began a search of the area including a homeless camp situated in the direction from which the shots were fired. Individuals in the camp were able to provide information about the incident which led to the arrest of Ivanovich Garcia Sanchez, age 39. Patrol officers successfully located casings and the firearm believed to be used in the incident.

Sanchez is lodged at the Marion County Jail on the charges of reckless endangering and unlawful use of a weapon.

# # #

Vancouver, Washington – The City of Vancouver is seeking applicants to serve as the city’s volunteer representative on the Clark County Mosquito Control District Board of Trustees. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 23.

The 10-member board of trustees includes one representative from each city within Clark County, with three members appointed by the Board of County Councilors. The board of trustees oversees the administration and operation of the county’s Mosquito Control District, including adopting the district’s work plan, preparing and approving expenditures, and contracting for services. 

Board members are appointed to two-year terms. Applicants for this recruitment must be city residents and must be available for an interview with Vancouver city councilmembers on Wednesday, Nov. 10.

The open position is currently held by an individual whose term is expiring and may reapply. Per Vancouver City Council policy, all incumbents who wish to reapply for their positions will be re-interviewed along with any other qualifying applicants.

Regular board of trustees meetings are currently being held virtually. They occur at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the months of February, May, August and November. 

To apply for this vacancy online, visit www.cityofvancouver.us/boards. To request a printed application, contact the Boards and Commissions Coordinator in the City Manager’s Office at City Hall, P.O. Box 1995, Vancouver, WA 98668-1995, c_coordinator@cityofvancouver.us">bc_coordinator@cityofvancouver.us or by calling 360-487-8600. 

Visit www.clark.wa.gov/public-health/mosquito-control-district-board-trusteesfor more information about the board of trustees, including links to past meeting minutes and agendas, or call Arielle Alford at Clark County Health Department at 564-397-7277 with any questions.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE:     Wednesday, September 23, 2021

Press release update:

Arrested in this incident was Larry Ray Hatlestad, age 43. He is lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:

• Murder in the second degree 
• Unlawful use of a weapon
• Felon in possession of a weapon

Hatlestad was detained when a responding patrol officer located him trying to hide in a restaurant near the scene. 

The decedent has been identified as 29-year-old Abraham Torres Borja. 

Hatlestad will be arraigned at 2:30 p.m. at the Marion County Circuit Court Annex today. All further inquiries on this case should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

Our thanks to the witnesses who assisted patrol officers in the search for the suspect. We also extend thanks to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Oregon State Police who also assisted in the search and helped bring the incident to conclusion.

# # #

Original press release published September 22, 2021:

Salem, Ore. — On September 22, 2021, at about 11:15 a.m., Salem Police officers responded the to the 1000 block of 39th AV NE on the report of a shooting.

Officers located one man who appeared to have multiple gunshot wounds. Officers closed multiple streets in the area to set up a perimeter search for involved individuals.

The man was transported to Salem Health where he subsequently died from his wounds.

Several people have been detained and we do not believe there is any further threat to the public. During the next few hours, 39th AV between Anita DR and D ST NE will remain closed for the investigation.

As this incident is an ongoing investigation, no further information will be released at this time.

# # #

On September 23, 2021 at about 8:17 am, Yamhill Communications received an open line 911 call from a resident in the 700 block of 7^th Street Extension in the City of Lafayette.  The caller reported that an adult male had been inside the residence and discharged a handgun during a disturbance.  The male fled the residence while still armed with a handgun. 

Responding deputies obtained additional information and notified nearby Wascher Elementary School which temporarily went into lockdown.  The suspect was identified but had left the residence driving a 26-foot U-Haul truck. Additional deputies went to a secondary location where the individual is known to frequent.

The U-Haul was located in the 3800 block of SE Locks Road in rural Dayton.  The suspect was spotted and fled into a residence.  The suspect eventually came outside and was taken into custody.  He is identified as 42-year-old Joshuah Ewald Lewis of Lafayette.  Lewis was lodged in the Yamhill County Correctional Facility for parole violation and is pending additional charges from this incident. 

Wascher Elementary School was notified the outstanding suspect had been taken into custody and they updated the status of the school in coordination with McMinnville School District Security accordingly.

This incident is unrelated to the shooting incident in Lafayette on September 17, 2021.

The Sheriff’s Office is aware of the traffic congestion that is occurring by Lewis and Clark School and is working with the school district to address this problem.  Children are being dropped off at school from 7:30am through 8:00 am.  Pick-up time starts at 2:45pm.  The following may help lessen the traffic congestion.

1. For thru traffic (not picking up a student) try to avoid the area and use alternative routes if possible.
2. High traffic times are: 7:30am-8:15am and 2:30pm-3:15pm.
3. Be patient, be aware of your surroundings, and follow the rules of the road. 
4. The speed limit during school days is 20mph.
5. Sheriff’s Office patrols will be in the area to assist with keeping traffic flowing as best as possible. 

For further questions or concerns contact:

Sgt. Thomas Phillips

503-325-8635 ext. 2445

tphillips@co.clatsop.or.us

Portland, OR – September 23, 2021 — The Oregon Clinic was named Oregon’s sixth Top Workplace among large employers by The Oregonian. The announcement came with the results of The Oregonian’s annual survey, which polls thousands of employees statewide from participating employers. The Oregon Clinic was the highest-ranking healthcare provider on the list. This is the seventh time The Oregon Clinic has participated in the survey, and each time The Oregon Clinic has ranked among the top 10 best places to work.

“It has been a really challenging year for healthcare workers, so it was heartwarming to see how much our employees respected the way we’ve handled this crisis,” said Tom Sanchez, CEO of The Oregon Clinic. “We worked hard to support our employees and find innovative ways to continue to serve our patients, and it was encouraging to see that those efforts were appreciated by so many of our employees.”

The Oregonian partners with research firm Energage to conduct a scientific employee survey process to determine the region's Top Workplace rankings each year. This year, 2,116 employers in Oregon and SW Washington were invited to participate and be assessed through employee surveys. Employees at participating workplaces completed surveys about workplace culture, including employee engagement, leadership, alignment with company values, effectiveness, encouraging new ideas, benefits and more, resulting in the ranking of the top workplaces.

75% of employees at The Oregon Clinic participated and shared their opinions via an anonymous survey in 2021. Of those, 79% of employees said they’d highly recommend working at The Oregon Clinic to others. When asked what they loved about their job, many employees highlighted the flexibility to use remote work to balance work and personal life; the positive and hardworking culture; and the high quality of patient care provided. Employees appreciated the organization’s efforts to support mental health and wellness, and often described their coworkers as “like a family”.

“The management and the team are understanding and take time to care for every individual need,” described one employee. “TOC makes employees feel like family members and not just a number.”

“I love our family environment. We care about our patients. And we care about each other as a team,” said another employee.

Employees also felt positively about how TOC has responded during the COVID-19 pandemic. Quickly pivoting to virtual visits, adjusting constantly to changing safety protocols, providing employees with frequent pandemic updates, and hosting community vaccine clinics were all examples shared by employees that showed The Oregon Clinic’s strong values.

“[TOC worked] to set up a health community vaccine clinic to help get employees and other clinic's employees vaccinated. TOC stepped up to help the community by finding a way to make the idea work in reality and expanding to other healthcare providers showing real integrity and innovation,” shared an employee.

Overall, employees felt valued and appreciated at work, which contributed to their overall job satisfaction.

“I feel supported by my co-workers as well as management. The atmosphere is very uplifting and team-oriented. Training is hands on and thorough, and questions are encouraged. Patient care and safety is the top priority and it shows.”

“I love the work I do and the people I get to do it with. I feel like I am part of something larger that serves our community by providing the best care possible for our patients.”

“The patient centered culture of TOC is motivating to me. I am in healthcare because I care about the patients. It is awesome to be part of a team that feels the same.”

As the largest physician-owned multi-specialty medical practice in the region, The Oregon Clinic works to cultivate a culture that focuses on exceptional patient experiences and a supportive workplace for employees. The Oregon Clinic’s more than 1,250 employees include more than 270 providers, who provide expert care at more than 500,000 patient visits each year.

To see the full list of award recipients, visit www.oregonlive.com/topworkplaces.

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About The Oregon Clinic:

The Oregon Clinic is the largest private specialty physician practice in Oregon. More than 270 providers provide respectful, compassionate care in more than 30 specialty areas, resulting in more than 500,000 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 more than 60 specialty clinic locations across northwest Oregon and southwest Washington. Call 503-935-8000 or visit www.oregonclinic.com for more information.

The Fall Leaf Coupon Program, courtesy of City of Vancouver and Clark County public works, can help when leaves start to fall and cover the ground. 

The popular annual program allows local residents to bring leaves to designated drop-off sites for free disposal. Keeping leaves out of streets helps prevent clogged stormwater drains and localized flooding.

From Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, Vancouver and Clark County residents can drop off up to 5 cubic yards of leaves at one of the designated sites shown on the coupon, at no charge. Loads of leaves must be covered, and all bags of leaves must be emptied out at the disposal site. Branches and other yard debris, including loads with a mix of leaves, are not covered by the coupon and will be charged at the regular disposal price. Coupons are intended to be used by individuals, not businesses.

Coupons are required and must be filled out to be eligible for free leaves disposal. The name of an individual, not a business, must be written on the submitted coupon to be valid. Some drop-off sites may have a few spare coupons on hand this year, but residents are strongly encouraged to print out, clip out or get coupons in advance, before making the trip to drop off leaves. Please note that due to restrictions related to COVID-19 and evolving community health guidelines, coupons are not available for pickup at public facilities this year. 

Here’s how to get your coupons for free leaf disposal:

- Print out a coupon from the City of Vancouver Solid Waste webpage: www.cityofvancouver.us/leafcoupon.

- Print out a coupon from the Clark County Green Neighbors webpage: https://clarkgreenneighbors.org/.

- Clip a coupon out of Waste Connections’ Recycling newsletter, which will be sent to all residences in Clark County in October. Coupons are also available on Waste Connections’ website at www.wcnorthwest.com/leaves.

- Call Vancouver Solid Waste at 360-487-7160 or email solidwaste@cityofvancouver.us to have a coupon sent to you by mail. Please plan ahead and allow additional time to receive the coupon after making your request.

(Note: Coupons in Spanish, Russian and Vietnamese also are available on the webpages listed above.)
 

There are four participating designated leaf disposal sites this year, shown below and printed on the coupon. Please call ahead to confirm hours and availability. When dropping off leaves, please wear a face covering, maintain physical distance and follow other posted public health guidance.

- H & H Wood Recyclers, 8401 NE 117th Ave. Phone: 360-892-2805. Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday in October, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in November/December, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

- McFarlane’s Bark, 8806 NE 117th Ave. Phone: 360-892-6125. Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday in October/November; closed Sunday in December.

- Triangle Resources, 612 S.E. Union St, Camas. Phone: 360-834-7253. Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday- Friday. Closed Saturday and Sunday.

- West Van Materials Recovery Center, 6601 NW Old Lower River Road. Phone: 360-737-1727. Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Closed Sunday. 
 

In Vancouver, property owners are responsible for managing the leaves from their trees. Deliberately raking or blowing leaves into the street and leaving them there is unlawful. Street sweepers are generally no match for big, wet, heavy piles of leaves. The free leaf disposal program is intended to provide options for Vancouver residents with a lot of trees, while also protecting our stormwater system and streets from flooding.

Other options for leaf disposal include on-site composting or subscribing to Waste Connections’ optional Organics service, available within the City of Vancouver, or optional yard debris service, available in portions of Clark County. Visit www.wcnorthwest.com to learn more.

View the informational video showing how the City of Vancouver and residents can work together to manage fall leaves: https://youtu.be/jr3ogvYlY6E.
 

Contact:                                                                                                                                 September 23, 2021
Lauren Eads, Director of Development and Communications
503.517.3909, leads@newavenues.org

More than $550,000 raised for Portland’s homeless youth

at the 20^th Annual Steve Allen Comedy Show starring Jason Alexander 

PORTLAND, OREGON: 09.23.2021 – On Wednesday, September 22^nd, more than 300 community members attended in person and 250 virtually to the 20^th Annual Steve Allen Comedy Show starring Jason Alexander, and raised nearly $550,000 for the Portland nonprofit New Avenues for Youth. The annual event, presented by Windermere Realty Trust, provides critical support for New Avenues’ programs for youth experiencing or at-risk of homelessness. Since its inception, the Steve Allen Comedy Show has raised more than $6.7 million. The Virtual Event Sponsor, Bank of America made it possible to live stream from small house parties and individual homes across the West Coast thanks to their generous support.

"Portland has too many young people at risk or experiencing homelessness,” said Todd Prendergast, Windermere Realty Trust President. “Windermere is proud to be a partner and supporter of New Avenues where young people can go to get the skills they need to be more self-sufficient. The organizations efforts to address the root causes of youth homelessness has had a huge impact in our community.”

Since 1997, New Avenues for Youth’s programs and services have impacted more than 30,000 homeless and at-risk young people as they work to overcome barriers, pursue their goals, and realize their potential.

“Windermere Realty Trust and the Windermere Foundation share our commitment to creating equitable access to education, employment, and housing, and reaching the most vulnerable in our community,” said Sean Suib, Executive Director of New Avenues for Youth. “Their generous support of this annual event and partnership with New Avenues continues to have a significant impact on our efforts to prevent and end youth homelessness, and we are truly grateful.” 

We could not have done this night without our generous sponsors including; Begonia Charitable Foundation, Greenbrier Companies, Joan & Brian Allen, Lucky Transportation Service, Nike, Propel Insurance, TMT Development, Breakaway Bookkeeping & Advising, Cambia Health Solutions, Coca-Cola, Elisa & Mitch Hornecker, KGW, Legacy Health, NW Natural, The Standard, Pat & Tony Trunzo, UBS Financial Services, US Bank, Brown & Brown Northwest, City Of Portland, Alan & Katharine Cahn, Ashley Campion & Matt Semler, Colas Construction, Jasmin Grace, Greenbridge Properties, Ferguson Wellman, First Republic, Herrig Family Foundation, Howard S. Wright, JGP Wealth Management, Beth Kellen, Keybank, Killian Pacific, Kilpatrick Townsend, Ian Lombard & Kristin Cornuelle, Sandi Mcdonough, Perkins & Co, R & H Construction, Rebellious, Underdog Lawyers, Sara & Scott Vanderhoff, Aimee Virnig, Washington Trust Bank, and Windermere Services.

###

About New Avenues for Youth

New Avenues for Youth is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention and intervention of youth homelessness. Through our 21 programs ranging from support of basic needs such as meals and counseling, to providing opportunities for education, job training, employment, and housing, we meet youth where they are—and help them get where they want to go. For more information, go to www.newavenues.org. 

September 22, 2021

This news release is an updated version to include case and death information.

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

Oregon reports 2,312 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 26 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 26 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 3,649 the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 2,312 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 317,107.

OHA updates reporting for schools in weekly Outbreak Report

Starting today, the weekly Outbreak Report is updating how school outbreaks will be reported.

The Outbreak Report will continue to report the number of cases in school by student and staff or volunteer status. Active and resolved outbreaks will now include all cases linked to the outbreak and will no longer differentiate cases among students and staff cases. 

Outbreaks in K-12 schools are defined as having two or more cases identified, where there is evidence of transmission, at school. Outbreaks may include cases who were not at school but are close contacts of those exposed at school. This provides a more accurate picture of the scale of K-12 related outbreaks and how they may link to other cases in the community.

Schools should continue to notify their local public health authority of all positive cases identified among students and staff, including those who are reporting a positive at-home COVID-19 test.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 939, which is five fewer than yesterday. There are 270 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is six more than yesterday.

There are 39 available adult ICU beds out of 649 total (6% availability) and 315 available adult non-ICU beds out of 4,272 (7% availability).

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

Note: Please do not visit an emergency department for COVID-19 testing, unless you require emergency care for your symptoms.

Emergency departments in Oregon are under significant strain responding to the current surge in COVID-19. You can find a test here.  

If you have a medical condition that doesn’t require emergency care, contact your provider. An urgent care center may also help you get the care you need and will save emergency departments from added strain.  

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 9,765 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry on Sept. 21. Of this total, 3,965 were administered on Sept. 21: 1,774 were initial doses, 1,712 were second doses and 451 were third doses. The remaining 5,800 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Sept. 21.

The seven-day running average is now 7,763 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered 2,931,592 doses of Pfizer Comirnaty, 1,891,669 doses of Moderna and 211,673 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines.

As of today, 2,714,604 people have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 2,479,317 people have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

Updated vaccination data are provided on Oregon’s COVID-19 data dashboards and have been updated today.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (19), Benton (41), Clackamas (218), Clatsop (14), Columbia (33), Coos (53), Crook (12), Curry (4), Deschutes (169), Douglas (59), Gilliam (1), Grant (68), Harney (27), Hood River (9), Jackson (106), Jefferson (21), Josephine (33), Klamath (39), Lake (9), Lane (143), Lincoln (28), Linn (119), Malheur (41), Marion (266), Morrow (7), Multnomah (319), Polk (45), Sherman (1), Tillamook (12), Umatilla (72), Union (16), Wallowa (13), Wasco (18), Washington (224) and Yamhill (53).

Oregon’s 3,624th COVID-19 related death is a 47-year-old woman from Coos County who tested positive on Aug. 23 and died on Sept. 20 at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at Riverbend. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,625th COVID-19 related death is a 60-year-old man from Coos County who tested positive on Aug. 19 and died on Sept. 18 at Oregon Health and Science University Hospital. He had no underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,626th COVID-19 related death is a 65-year-old man from Coos County who tested positive on Aug. 11 and died on Sept. 17 at Oregon Health and Science University Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,627th COVID-19 related death is a 20-year-old woman from Baker County who tested positive on Sept. 11 and died on Sept. 20 at St. Alphonsus Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,628th COVID-19 related death is an 84-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on Sept. 5 and died on Sept. 15 at Mercy Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,629th COVID-19 related death is a 56-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on Aug. 24 and died on Sept. 15 at Mercy Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,630th COVID-19 related death is a 70-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on Aug. 19 and died on Sept. 21 at Mercy Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,631st COVID-19 related death is a 76-year-old woman from Deschutes County who tested positive on Sept. 5 and died on Sept. 18 at St. Charles Bend Hospital. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,632nd COVID-19 related death is a 54-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on Sept. 16 and died on Sept. 17 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,633rd COVID-19 related death is a 66-year-old woman from Douglas County who tested positive on Sept. 6 and died on Sept. 15 at her residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,634th COVID-19 related death is a 64-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on Sept. 15 and died on Sept. 16 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,635th COVID-19 related death is a 50-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on Sept. 16 and died on Sept. 13 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,636th COVID-19 related death is a 96-year-old woman from Josephine County who tested positive on Sept. 16 and died on Sept. 20 at her residence. She had no underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,637th COVID-19 related death is a 79-year-old man from Josephine County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept. 20 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,638th COVID-19 related death is a 56-year-old man from Jackson County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept. 19 at Ashland Community Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3.639th COVID-19 related death is a 47-year-old woman from Jackson County who tested positive on Sept. 11 and died on Sept. 14 at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,640th COVID-19 related death is an 89-year-old man from Jackson County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept. 20 at Providence Medford Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,641st COVID-19 related death is an 80-year-old woman from Jackson County who tested positive on Sept. 9 and died on Sept. 17 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,642nd COVID-19 related death is a 64-year-old woman from Jackson County who tested positive on Aug. 23 and died on Sept. 18 at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,643rd COVID-19 related death is a 54-year-old woman from Umatilla County who tested positive on Aug. 7 and died on Aug. 31 at Oregon Health and Science University Hospital. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,644th COVID-19 related death is an 88-year-old man from Polk County who tested positive on Sept. 7 and died on Sept. 17 at Salem Hospital.  Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,645th COVID-19 related death is a 35-year-old woman from Marion County who tested positive on Sept. 18 and died on Sept. 19 at Oregon Health and Science University Hospital. She had no underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,646th COVID-19 related death is a 43-year-old woman from Marion County who tested positive on Sept. 17 and died on Sept. 16. Location of death and presence of underlying conditions are being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,647th COVID-19 related death is a 50-year-old man from Lane County who tested positive on Sept. 4 and died on Sept. 18 at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at Riverbend. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,648th COVID-19 related death is a 66-year-old man from Lane County who tested positive on Sept. 1 and died on Sept. 20 at McKenzie Willamette Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,649th COVID-19 related death is a 68-year-old man from Lane County who tested positive on Aug. 22 and died on Sept. 18 at PeaceHealth Sacred Health Medical Center at Riverbend. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations  

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

# # #

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet virtually on Oct. 6 and 7 for a planning retreat. The retreat offers the board and department leadership the opportunity to connect and explore policy issues in an informal setting. No public comment or testimony will be accepted during the retreat, but the public can observe both days of the retreat via a livestream on the department’s YouTube page.

During this informal annual retreat, board members will: 

• Connect with each other and discuss leadership effectiveness and desired working relationships in support of sound public policy decision making, 
• Discuss reviewing and updating the Forest Program for Oregon, 
• Engage with ODF’s executive team on current and future strategic initiatives for the department, and
• Discuss board priorities and work plan items for the upcoming two years and provide thoughts to inform the 2023-2025 biennium.

View the agenda and meeting details. 

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@oregon.gov">forestryinformation@oregon.gov.

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include appointing the State Forester, setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30 million-acre forestland base. Read more information about the board.

Vancouver, Wash. –On September 22, 2021, at approximately 12:19 p.m., Vancouver Police responded to the 1300 block of SE Columbia River Driver for the report that a male had grabbed a purse from a chair outside a coffee shop where the victim was sitting, got into a vehicle and left the area.  The suspect description and crime matched that of several previous purse thefts in the west Vancouver area over the last few weeks. Two Vancouver Police Department Bike Team officers responded to the area quickly and started checking locations where the suspects might look for other victims. They located a vehicle matching the suspect vehicle at E Mill Plain Blvd./C Street and a traffic stop was conducted. The vehicle was occupied by four 14-year-old juveniles (three males and one female). 

Based on the investigation and witness statements, two of the males were booked into the Clark County Juvenile Detention Center for Theft II and Taking a Motor Vehicle W/O Permission and Robbery II for an incident from September 16, 2021where a purse was taken from a table at the same coffee shop as yesterday’s incident. Charges are being referred on the other two juveniles. 

The investigation is continuing, and additional charges are pending. 

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 TIP OF THE WEEK

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date:          September 23, 2021          

Contact:      Sheriff Curtis Landers

                   541-265-0652

                   clanders@co.lincoln.or.us

SAFETY TIPS DURING HUNTING SEASON

Hunters:

• Check weather reports before visiting the forest.  Dress properly.
• Tell someone where you will be hunting and when you will return.  Leave a written plan at home and in your vehicle.
• Be familiar with the area you want to hunt.
• Consider using electronic technology such as a handheld GPS or an app on your cellular phone that uses the GPS built into your phone. Such phone applications like, onXmaps. Personal locating beacons (PLBs) or Satellite Messengers are another electronic that will assist searchers in finding you if you are lost or injured.
• Avoid wearing white or tan during hunting seasons.  Wearing hunter orange, viewable from all directions is recommended.
• If accompanied by a dog, the dog should also wear hunter orange or a very visible color on a vest, leash, coat or bandana.
• Check hunting equipment before and after each outing and maintain it properly. Familiarize yourself with its operation before using it in the field.
• Carry a spare set of dry clothing.  Use layering techniques to prevent moisture while retaining body warmth. Always bring rain gear.
• Carry a first aid kit and know how to use its contents.
• Clearly identify your target before shooting.  Prevent unfortunate accidents or fatalities.
• Be alert when hunting near developed areas and trails.  Other recreationists are in the forest as well.

Outdoor Enthusiasts:

• Wear bright clothing.  Make yourself more visible. Choose colors that stand out, like red, orange or green, and avoid white, blacks, browns, earth-toned greens and animal-colored clothing. Orange vests and hats are advisable.
• Don’t forget to protect your dog.  Get an orange vest for him/her if they accompany you.
• Be courteous.  Once a hunter is aware of your presence, don’t make unnecessary noise to disturb wildlife. Avoid confrontations.
• Make yourself known.  If you do hear shooting, raise your voice and let hunters know that you are in the vicinity.
• Know when hunting seasons are occurring.  Continue to hike, but learn about where and when hunting is taking place. (Consider hiking midday when wild game and hunting activity is at its lowest.)
• Know your own comfort level.  If hunting makes you uneasy, choose a hiking location where hunting is not allowed, such as a national or state park.

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

Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke in the area of Grand Ave and 34^th St by a road crew working around midnight last night on Highway 500 at St. John’s Road.  Vancouver Fire Engine 2 arrived at 3405 Grand Boulevard to find a one-story home on fire. Crews worked quickly to stop the unchecked fire from spreading into the attic and other areas of the house.   At the same time additional crews performed a thorough search of the structure for occupants. No one was home.  The difficult fire was brought under control within 50 min. Vancouver Fire had 20 firefighters extinguishing the blaze.  Vancouver Fire Marshal #6 was called to the scene to investigate the fire.      

On September 22^nd, 2021, at approximately 6:00 a.m. deputies located Kenneth William Peden III, a 21 year-old male, unconscious in his cell after an apparent suicide attempt at the Marion County Jail.  Deputies and onsite medical staff at the facility began administering CPR and used an AED in attempts to resuscitate the 21-year-old male. Additional emergency medical personnel from the Salem Fire Department and Falck Ambulance were called to the scene to assist.  The patient was later pronounced deceased at the scene.

In accordance with Sheriff’s Office policy, we have asked the Linn County Sheriff’s Office to investigate the death in cooperation with the Marion County District Attorney’s Office and Medical Examiner.  Under ORS 146.090, a death investigation is required for all deaths occurring while incarcerated in any jail, correction facility or in police custody. 

On September 21^st, 2021 at approximately 10:41 p.m. a 911 caller reported a shooting in the Four Corners area east of Salem.  While deputies were responding to the area, officers from the Salem Police Department located a victim from the shooting during a traffic stop.  An ambulance was called to the stop location and transported the victim to the hospital for treatment.

Detectives from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office were called to investigate the shooting.  Investigators learned the shooting occurred on Agate Drive SE near Warbler Drive SE.  The victim, a 30 year-old man from Salem, remains hospitalized with non-life threatening injuries.

Due to this being an open investigation no additional information is available for release.  At this time no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting.

Investigators are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact Detective Gregg Ramseyer at 503-316-6653 or to submit a tip online at https://www.co.marion.or.us/SO/Pages/tip411.aspx.

EUGENE, Ore.—A federal government employee who accessed and possessed child pornography while working aboard a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) scientific research vessel was sentenced to federal prison today.

Johnny Dale Hale, 44, was sentenced to 24 months in prison and five years’ supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $4,000 in restitution to his victims.

According to court documents, in late 2016, Hale, a decorated veteran, was working as a crew member aboard the Bell M. Shimada, a NOAA scientific research vessel.  On or about November 15, 2016, the vessel was experiencing technical connectivity issues and the information technology team began running diagnostics. While troubleshooting, an electronics technician discovered two new folders on the ship’s server containing what he believed to be child pornography.

Diagnostics showed that Hale’s unique employee access card was associated with the time and date the folders were initially accessed. Additionally, Hale used two different vessel workstations to access the server at the exact time the folders were created. The vessel’s senior security engineer alerted the U.S. Department of Commerce to the discovery.

Special agents and a forensic analyst reviewed the suspect folders and discovered 109 pornographic web links and confirmed the presence of child pornography. Approximately 33 images of child pornography were in one of the suspect folders, with images from at least four series of photographs of previously-identified child pornography victims.

On June 21, 2017, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Hale with possession of child pornography. On April 23, 2021, he pleaded guilty to that charge.

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

This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Commerce Office of Inspector General, NOAA Office of Law Enforcement, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren prosecuted the case.

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

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

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

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OREGON CITY – A total of 106 students made the Clackamas Community College honor roll and 236 students made the president’s list for summer term 2021.

To be named to the honor roll, students must earn a grade-point average of 3.5 or better. To be named to the president’s list, students must earn a 3.75 grade-point average or better.

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Editor’s note: Please see attached file for the list of honor roll/president’s list names and city of residency.

September 22, 2021

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

COVID-19 weekly cases and hospitalizations decline, deaths rise

The Oregon Health Authority’s COVID-19 Weekly Report, released today, shows decreases in daily cases and hospitalizations and an increase in deaths.

OHA reported 11,655  new cases of COVID-19 during the week of Monday, Sept. 13 through Sunday, Sept. 19. That represents a 10% decrease from the previous week.

There were 579 new COVID-19 hospitalizations, down slightly from 592 last week.

There were 148 reported COVID-19 related deaths, up from 120 reported the previous week.

There were 140,538 tests for COVID-19 for the week of Sept. 12 through Sept. 18.  The percentage of positive tests was 10.5%, down from 12% the previous week and the lowest level of test positivity in six weeks.

Today’s COVID-19 Weekly Outbreak Report shows 187 active COVID-19 outbreaks in senior living communities and congregate living settings, with three or more confirmed cases and one or more COVID-19 related deaths.

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KELSO, WA (9/22/21) -- Educational Service District 112 (ESD 112) has received a state grant of $220,000 to reduce youth alcohol, marijuana and other drug use in the community of Kelso, WA. The two-year grant, awarded by the Washington Health Care Authority’s (HCA), Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery (DBHR), includes funding for training, technical assistance, and community and school-based prevention services.

Kelso is one of 10 communities within the ESD 112 footprint participating in DBHR’s Community Prevention and Wellness Initiative (CPWI). The Initiative supports new or existing coalitions in partnering with parents, youth, educators, health professionals, law enforcement, faith leaders and local government. Coalitions identify their highest prevention needs, plan and implement evidence-based strategies, leverage local resources and evaluate the impact of selected programs. 

“Extending these resources to local communities means greater reductions in risky behavior including substance abuse and the harm it causes to people and their families,” said Michael Langer, acting assistant director of the Washington State Health Care Authority’s Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery. “Community leaders can use this grant to help young people make healthy choices and succeed.”

CPWI’s primary goals are to reduce underage use of alcohol and marijuana, improve academic performance and reduce juvenile crime, and pre-pandemic studies have shown that CPWI programs have positively impacted families across the state. The Washington State Healthy Youth Survey showed that underage drinking among 10th graders in Cowlitz County decreased from 29% in 2010 to 18% in 2018. 

“Evidence-based programs like CPWI really do make a difference in communities across the state,” said Leanne Reid, ESD 112 Prevention Youth Services Manager. “With this grant, we have a great opportunity to continue to reduce underage substance use in Kelso, and we are excited to work with our community partners and coalitions there.”

We want to hear Kelso residents’ opinions regarding underage drug and alcohol use in the community.  The data from this anonymous community survey will help us develop and prioritize our prevention plan.  The community survey is available online. English - https://www.research.net/r/COKEEN2021   Spanish -  https://www.research.net/r/COKEEN2021

Please contact Christine Katon at 360-355-3119 if you are interested in learning more about the coalition or want to get involved. 

Additional information about CPWI can be found at TheAthenaForum.org. The Healthy Youth Survey findings are available at www.askhys.net. The survey is a collaborative effort of Washington’s Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Department of Health, Department of Social and Health Service’s Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery, and the Liquor and Cannabis Board.

On September 21^st at approximately 5pm, the Keizer Police Department responded to a motor vehicle crash in the 200 block of Cummings Ln N.  Officers arrived and conducted an investigation which led to the arrest of twenty year old, Luke Peca. 

It was determined that Mr. Peca was driving east on Cummings Ln N when he lost control, struck and sheared off a power pole and then rolled his vehicle into a parked car.  A portion of Cummings Ln was closed and power to the area was out for approximately two and a half hours.

Mr. Peca was arrested and charged with:

• 1 count of Reckless Driving = $5,000
• 1 count of Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants = $5,000
• 3 counts of Reckless Endangering = $15,000
• 3 counts of Criminal Mischief in the first degree = $30,000
• 1 count of Assault in the fourth degree = $5,000
• 1 count of Driving While Suspended = $440
• 1 count of Driving Uninsured = $265

Investigators believe that drugs, alcohol and speed were contributing factors to this incident.

PR 13-21                                                                                                      BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
                                                            FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021
                                                                                       CONTACT: Maryam Habibi, 503-230-4413
                                                                                                                                            or 503-230-5131

BPA aligns people and strategy functions to drive its culture and competitiveness 
New organization enhances strategic capabilities and workplace culture efforts

 

Portland, Ore. – The Bonneville Power Administration’s executive structure is changing. The realignment by Administrator and CEO John Hairston will strengthen the agency’s strategic capabilities and enhance its commitment to its workforce. 

The move recognizes ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic and concerns about workers’ mental health and wellbeing. It also comes as BPA prepares to refresh its agency strategy and negotiate new long-term wholesale power contracts with its public utility customers. 

“The Northwest depends on BPA to deliver reliable, affordable, carbon-free power every day. That job is only getting more and more complicated,” said Hairston. “It’s just good business to ensure we do all we can to attract and retain the best talent, and to provide a workplace that drives employee satisfaction and productivity. That’s the best way to ensure we succeed in performing our public service mission, meeting our responsibilities and providing excellent service to our customers.”   

Dan James, who joined BPA’s leadership team in 2016 as deputy administrator, will now direct the agency’s new Workforce and Strategy Office.

“Dan brings passion and compassion to our people and cultural awareness efforts, as well as a breadth of strategic planning experience,” said Hairston. “As our new chief workforce and strategy officer, he will ensure we’re effectively planning and executing our strategies and boosting our employee recruitment, retention and diversity and inclusion efforts.”

The realignment brings the agency’s people-related and strategy functions into the same executive portfolio and refocuses the deputy administrator role. BPA’s Workforce and Strategy Office will include the agency’s existing communications, human resources, and Civil Rights and Equal Employment Opportunity organizations. The agency will also add two new organizations:  

• The new Technology Innovation and Strategy Office will bring together strategic planning, technology research and development programs. Staff in this new office will report to the deputy chief workforce and strategy officer, Shana Kuhn. Kuhn, who recently served as chief supply chain officer, was selected as the first deputy chief workforce and strategy officer.
• The new Culture Office will focus on the agency’s culture strategy, employee engagement, and diversity and inclusion functions. The new organization will be overseen by a new chief culture officer.

“People and intellectual and social capital are all essential elements of BPA’s competitiveness,” said Chief Workforce and Strategy Officer Dan James. “I’m excited to lead this new organization and support our strategic and workplace goals to ensure BPA’s success in a fast-changing industry and dynamic job market.” 

Under the new structure, the agency’s government affairs and compliance, audit and risk functions will now report to the administrator.

BPA’s chief operating officer will continue to advise on mission operations and the chief administrative officer will continue to oversee the agency’s support and business services missions, including BPA’s industry leading Safety organization. The new organizational changes go into effect on Sept. 26.

About BPA

The Bonneville Power Administration, headquartered in Portland, Oregon, is a nonprofit federal power marketer that sells wholesale, carbon-free hydropower from 31 federal dams in the Columbia River Basin. It also markets the output of the region’s only nuclear plant. BPA delivers this power to more than 140 Northwest electric utilities, serving millions of consumers and businesses in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, western Montana and parts of California, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage power lines and 261 substations, and provides transmission service to more than 300 customers. In all, BPA provides nearly a third of the power generated in the Northwest. To mitigate the impacts of the federal dams, BPA implements a fish and wildlife program that includes working with its partners to make the federal dams safer for fish passage. It also pursues cost-effective energy savings and operational solutions that help maintain safe, affordable, reliable electric power for the Northwest. www.bpa.gov 

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Attendance at one of two pre-application meetings is required to apply.

Salem, Ore. — The City of Salem is accepting grant proposals from organizations that want to host historic, cultural, and tourism-related events in Salem. 

Grant awards of up to $7,500 are available for large events hosted by nonprofit 501(c) organizations listed with the Internal Revenue Service. Smaller events hosted by non-501(c) organization are eligible for up to $2,000 grants. All events must take place within Salem city limits, be open to the public, and occur between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023. 

The grants are funded by the Transient Occupancy Tax, also known as a hotel tax. They provide marketing and promotion support for various historic and cultural facilities and events in Salem. 

Attendance at one of these pre-application meetings is a requirement to apply:

Tuesday, October 12, 2021, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Via Zoom Meeting, organizations must submit email request for the link to cneider@cityofsalem.net or kskelly@cityofsalem.net.

Thursday, October 14, 2021, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Via Zoom Meeting, organizations must submit email request for the link to cneider@cityofsalem.net or kskelly@cityofsalem.net.

Applications will be available beginning October 14, 2021 both online at http://www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/cultural-and-tourism-promotion-advisory-board.aspx and by contacting the City of Salem at (503) 540-2361. Applications will be due November 15, 2021.

For more information about Transient Occupancy Tax grants, please contact the City of Salem at (503)-540-2361. Si necesita ayuda para comprender esta información, por favor llame (503) 588-6207 x 1 Irma Dowd.

Our next media briefing is scheduled for 1 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 29. 

Employment

Yesterday, the Employment Department released the jobs numbers and unemployment rates for Oregon’s counties and metropolitan areas in August. 

Oregon’s eight metropolitan areas have collectively regained three out of five (or 62%) of the jobs lost during the pandemic recession. Salem and Albany rank the highest among metropolitan areas. They’ve each regained nine out of 10 jobs lost in spring 2020.

Portland, Eugene and Corvallis are further from a full jobs recovery. Each of these metropolitan areas have regained about two-thirds of the jobs lost during the recession.

Within the Portland metro area, Multnomah County in particular has struggled to recover jobs. Less than half the jobs lost during the recession were regained by August. This is meaningful for Oregon’s overall recovery, as Multnomah has the most jobs of any county in Oregon and also the largest deficit to get back to its February 2020 employment level.

Oregon’s rural areas continue to outpace metro areas in this recovery. Taken together, Oregon’s 23 rural counties have regained three out of four jobs (75%) lost in the COVID recession. Wallowa, Crook, and Harney counties each had more total nonfarm jobs in August than they did before the pandemic recession.

Back to Work Update 

The Employment Department continues to focus on helping people find jobs or new careers and employers find talented workers with our Back To Work Campaign in partnership with WorkSource Oregon.

There is an ongoing and urgent statewide need to fill health care and other positions that support the health care industry, like food service, facilities and business administration.

The Employment Department is reaching out to claimants with health care experience to let them know about job openings in their field. Our first health care hiring event is at the Clackamas Town Center today, Wed., Sept. 22. 

As part of the Governor’s health care initiative, the Employment Department has also scheduled a statewide virtual Hiring Heroes for Health care event from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Wed., Oct. 6, so job seekers can explore career opportunities and meet employers hiring across Oregon. People can register for the virtual event online and visit our LinkedIn page for details.

All WorkSource Oregon events will follow the state and CDC guidance to make sure everyone is safe during these events. To ensure the safety of our visitors and employees and prevent further spread of COVID-19, all customers and employees must wear masks.

Online Scheduling through WorkSourceOregon.org

The new online scheduling tool is live in Spanish and English! People can go to WorkSource.org and click on the Contact button for either language page. The tool has options to schedule virtual and in-person appointments with an employment specialist at one of the WorkSource Oregon (WSO) centers throughout the state. Job seekers can also schedule time to use a WorkSource Oregon computer for job search activities. Translation work is in progress to make the new scheduling tool available in all 12 languages that we are making available on the WorkSource site.

People filing new claims must complete a one-on-one orientation to receive their benefits, and they can this tool to schedule this required orientation.

Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (PFMLI)

PFMLI will conduct a Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) meeting from 9 a.m. – noon on Wed., Sept. 29, to review the first batch of PFMLI's administrative rules. This meeting is open to the public and gives people an opportunity to provide input and offer suggestions on the proposed rules. These “batch one rules” are available for review our website.

The first batch of PFMLI rules relate specifically to wages, contributions, employer size, assistance grants, equivalent plans, self-employed and the agency’s outreach plan. The RAC meeting is one of many opportunities the public will have to provide comments on these proposed rules throughout the rulemaking process.

Unemployment Insurance Benefits

Resuming Able and Available for Work Requirements, new temporary rule

Starting this Sunday, Sept. 26, OED is resuming able and available to work requirements for people claiming unemployment insurance (UI) benefits. This means people filing for initial and weekly claims for benefits must be able to work and available for suitable work for at least 40 hours per week OR one shift, if their work is shift based. 

Being able to work and available for work were both requirement for receiving UI benefits before the pandemic; however, there is a new temporary rule in place that applies to the available to work requirement. Under the new rule, if someone has barriers preventing them from returning to their work, they may still be eligible to receive unemployment insurance benefits if they are willing to seek an alternate type of work for which they are available at least one shift per day and 40 hours per week. 

With this change to availability requirements, the rule will better reflect the current workforce and economy. Some people who would have otherwise been denied benefits as a result of a limited availability would be able to receive them under the temporary rule changes. This change also may help provide economic stability to local communities where there are a large number of people whose work schedules have been restricted, including individuals with underlying conditions who may need to limit their exposure to COVID-19.

OED is notifying claimants to make sure people know about this rule change. They also may visit our online Temporary Eligibility Rule FAQs for more information. The department is scheduling six listening sessions for business, labor, community organizations and others to give us feedback on these new temporary rules before we work on permanent availability rule changes. Simultaneous interpretation will be available in Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian and Cantonese. Listening session dates and times will be posted on our webinar page.

Benefit Numbers

The Employment Department previously reported that, when the federal pandemic-related unemployment benefits expired over Labor Day weekend, as many as 81,000 people could see their Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits end in Oregon. Here is some more information about how this is impacting the people of Oregon.

OED has identified geographic information for nearly 78,000 of the 81,000 people – 46,500 who were receiving Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits in Oregon and 31,500 who were receiving Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits.

Statewide, those with Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) benefits ending made up about 2% of the labor force. By county, the highest share of the labor force losing PEUC benefits (3% in each) occurred in Curry, Josephine, Lincoln, and Multnomah counties.

Those with Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits ending also made up another 2% of the state’s labor force. By county, the highest share of the labor force with PUA benefits ending (3% in each) occurred in Coos, Curry, and Josephine counties.

In addition to geographic impact, OED found that the end of the federal pandemic unemployment programs also had slightly more impact on women than on men. Prior to the pandemic, women made up 47% of the state’s labor force. As the PEUC benefits expired, women comprised 52% of those claims. Women also had a slight majority (51%) of PUA claims as the program drew to a close.

Backdating Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) Claims

The PUA program expired September 4, 2021; however, people have until Oct. 6 to file their initial claim for benefits and to file for retroactive weeks. This only applies to people who have a COVID-19 impact reason for being unemployed prior to Sep. 4, 2021. We encourage people to file using the Online Claim System. After Oct. 6, no one can make any changes or backdate weeks of a PUA claim.

Updated Dashboard

At next week’s media briefing, OED will present the new dashboard tool that will reflect that pandemic-related benefit programs have expired and highlight other Employment Department activities. 

Customer Service 

OED has promised throughout the pandemic to be transparent. Current data show that more than 94 percent of Contact Us inquiries are now resolved within seven days. The department is experiencing a delay with its call data information reporting and hopes to provide an update on call wait times during our next media briefing. 

Benefits Paid

OED paid $10.9 billion in benefits to more than 617,000 people from March 15, 2020 – Sept. 21, 2021. This is the last week OED will report on this data in the media briefing; however, this information will still be available upon request.

Last week, we paid approximately $29 million to more than 32,000 people. Detailed information is on the media dashboard.

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Equal Opportunity program — auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Contact: 971-673-6400. For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, call 711 Telecommunications Relay Services.

September 22, 2021

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

Oregon reports 2,312 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 26 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 26 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 3,649 the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 2,312 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 317,107.

OHA updates reporting for schools in weekly Outbreak Report

Starting today, the weekly Outbreak Report is updating how school outbreaks will be reported.

The Outbreak Report will continue to report the number of cases in school by student and staff or volunteer status. Active and resolved outbreaks will now include all cases linked to the outbreak and will no longer differentiate cases among students and staff cases. 

Outbreaks in K-12 schools are defined as having two or more cases identified, where there is evidence of transmission, at school. Outbreaks may include cases who were not at school but are close contacts of those exposed at school. This provides a more accurate picture of the scale of K-12 related outbreaks and how they may link to other cases in the community.

Schools should continue to notify their local public health authority of all positive cases identified among students and staff, including those who are reporting a positive at-home COVID-19 test.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 939, which is five fewer than yesterday. There are 270 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is six more than yesterday.

There are 39 available adult ICU beds out of 649 total (6% availability) and 315 available adult non-ICU beds out of 4,272 (7% availability).

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

Note: Please do not visit an emergency department for COVID-19 testing, unless you require emergency care for your symptoms.

Emergency departments in Oregon are under significant strain responding to the current surge in COVID-19. You can find a test here.  

If you have a medical condition that doesn’t require emergency care, contact your provider. An urgent care center may also help you get the care you need and will save emergency departments from added strain.  

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 9,765 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry on Sept. 21. Of this total, 3,965 were administered on Sept. 21: 1,774 were initial doses, 1,712 were second doses and 451 were third doses. The remaining 5,800 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Sept. 21.

The seven-day running average is now 7,763 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered 2,931,592 doses of Pfizer Comirnaty, 1,891,669 doses of Moderna and 211,673 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines.

As of today, 2,714,604 people have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 2,479,317 people have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

Updated vaccination data are provided on Oregon’s COVID-19 data dashboards and have been updated today.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (19), Benton (41), Clackamas (218), Clatsop (14), Columbia (33), Coos (53), Crook (12), Curry (4), Deschutes (169), Douglas (59), Gilliam (1), Grant (68), Harney (27), Hood River (9), Jackson (106), Jefferson (21), Josephine (33), Klamath (39), Lake (9), Lane (143), Lincoln (28), Linn (119), Malheur (41), Marion (266), Morrow (7), Multnomah (319), Polk (45), Sherman (1), Tillamook (12), Umatilla (72), Union (16), Wallowa (13), Wasco (18), Washington (224) and Yamhill (53).

Note: More information about the cases and deaths will be provided in an updated news release. 

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations  

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

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In partnership with Salem Health’s Mobile Vaccine Team, Chemeketa Community College offers free vaccines to everyone

Salem, Ore., September 22, 2021 — Salem Health’s Mobile Vaccine Team will be at Chemeketa Community College’s Salem Campus on Monday, September 27 and Tuesday, September 28 to administer the first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. They will return Monday, October 18 and Tuesday, October 19 to administer the second dose. The clinic will be held at 4000 Lancaster Drive NE in Building 2 in the Dining Hall. Clinic hours will be 8:30 am - 2:30 pm, and no appointment is needed. This free vaccine is available to employees, students, family members, and the general public ages 12 and up. 

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. The vaccine protects individuals and the community from the COVID-19 virus. Salem Health’s Mobile Vaccine Machine endeavors to reach underserved communities in Marion and Polk counties. They focus on equity in vaccinating Oregonians, prioritizing hard-to-reach and vulnerable populations, as well as those for which travel to one of the larger vaccine clinics is a barrier. 

"Chemeketa is proud to partner again with Salem Health's Vaccine Machine to provide COVID-19 vaccines on campus for all community members aged 12 and up,” said John McIlvain, Chemeketa’s Emergency and Risk Manager. “Our goal is to provide vaccinations to our students, our staff, and the greater community to help protect everyone from the devastating effects of this horrible virus. With vaccines comes protection; with protection comes opportunity. Chemeketa wants everyone to be healthy to pursue their life's educational and training opportunities."

For more information, call 503-399-8635 or email covid19@chemeketa.edu

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4000 Lancaster Drive NE Sale

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

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

​Salem, Ore. --Salem Public Library has begun work on a five-year strategic plan, which will serve the library through the year 2026. The strategic plan will provide direction for the library and will inform how the library serves the changing needs of the community. 

To do this process well, the Library needs to hear your voices and perspectives. Please share your insights to inform how the library serves our community. The survey is available online in English, Spanish, and Russian:

• English: Salem Public Library Strategic Planning Survey
• Spanish: Encuesta de planificación estratégica de la Biblioteca Pública de Salem
• Russian: Исследование стратегического планирования публичной библиотеки Салема

This survey will be open through October 11, 2021. Please feel free to share the link within your network of family, friends, neighbors and colleagues. 

Learn more about the strategic planning process.

Oregon State Police is requesting public assistance with this case.  OSP is releasing a video of three vehicles that were in the area near the time of a fatal hit and run crash that killed bicyclist Geoffry Sterling (44) of Ashland. The Oregon State Police would like to speak to the occupants of the first 3 vehicles seen in this video as they may have information related to the crash. https://bit.ly/3nYYC3e 

•           Silver/light-colored Truck seen at 9:45:35 P.M.

•           White SUV seen at 9:45:40 P.M.

•           White Sedan seen at 9:46:24 P.M.

The video was obtained from the intersection of E Rapp Road and Hwy 99, approximately .25 miles to the south of the crash site of Hwy 99 and West Valley View Road in Talent, Oregon. 

Anyone with information may contact the Oregon State Police-Southern Command Center at 1-800-442-2068 or OSP from your mobile and refer to Case #: SP21-268789.

On Sunday, September 19, 2021, at approximately 9:53 PM, Oregon State Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a vehicle vs bicyclist on Highway 99 near West Valley View Road in Talent. 

Preliminary investigation revealed that a driver of a vehicle struck a bicycle, being ridden by Geoffry Sterling (44) of Ashland. The involved vehicle did not stay at the scene. 

Sterling sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. 

Northbound traffic on Highway 99 was closed for approximately 3 hours.

OSP was assisted on scene by Jackson County Fire, Talent PD, Phoenix PD, and ODOT. 

OSP is requesting anyone with information regarding the crash or any information regarding the suspect vehicle to contact the Oregon State Police Southern Command Center at 1-800-442-2068 or OSP and refer to Case #: SP21-268789.

OSP was assisted on scene by Jackson County Fire, Talent PD, Phoenix PD, and ODOT. 

Gresham, Ore.— On September 20, 2021 at approximately 6:15pm, Gresham Police received a call about shots that were heard in the parking lot of the Walmart at 3900 W Powell boulevard, near SE 182^nd and located 38-year-old Dashawn Hudson, of Portland, who died from gunfire outside in the lot.

Investigators with the East County Major Crimes Team (MCT), including members from Gresham Police, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and the Port of Portland Police, are actively investigating the case. 

Detectives were able to identify 26-year-old Daniel Hipshman, of Portland, as a suspect in the homicide. He was arrested in the early morning hours of September 22, 2021 and lodged at the Multnomah County Detention Center on charges of Murder II and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. If you have additional information regarding this case, please call the Gresham Police tip line at 503-618-2719 or toll free at 888-989-3505, callers can remain anonymous.

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This news release is an updated version to include case and death information and an updated number of deaths.

September 21, 2021

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

Oregon reports 1,707 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 29 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 29 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 3,623, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 1,707 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 314,841.

Public Health Indicators Dashboard update

Today, OHA updated the summary tables for the Public Health Indicators Dashboard to include counts in addition to percentages for 1) emergency department visits for COVID-19-like illness visits, 2) timely case follow-up by local public health departments, and 3) cases traced to a known source. These dashboards are published weekly on Tuesdays with the most recent full week’s data. An error was identified and corrected in the percentage of COVID-19-like illness calculation, bringing the Public Health Indicators Dashboard into alignment with the emergency department data published daily in Oregon’s COVID-19 Update.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 944, which is 24 fewer than yesterday. There are 264 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is 14 fewer than yesterday.

There are 59 available adult ICU beds out of 655 total (9% availability) and 347 available adult non-ICU beds out of 4,280 (8% availability).

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

Note: Please do not visit an emergency department for COVID-19 testing, unless you require emergency care for your symptoms.

Emergency departments in Oregon are under significant strain responding to the current surge in COVID-19. You can find a test here.  

If you have a medical condition that doesn’t require emergency care, contact your provider. An urgent care center may also help you get the care you need and will save emergency departments from added strain.  

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 7,500 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry on Sept. 20. Of this total, 3,206 were administered on Sept. 20: 1,322 were initial doses, 1,293 were second doses and 563 were third doses. The remaining 4,294 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Sept. 20.

The seven-day running average is now 7,754 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered 2,925,018 doses of Pfizer Comirnaty, 1,889,267 doses of Moderna and 211,054 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines.

As of today, 2,710,562 people have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 2,474,067 people have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

Updated vaccination data are provided on Oregon’s COVID-19 related data dashboards and have been updated today.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (18), Benton (18), Clackamas (110), Clatsop (15), Columbia (12), Coos (86), Crook (13), Curry (11), Deschutes (80), Douglas (85), Grant (29), Harney (34), Hood River (4), Jackson (76), Jefferson (17), Josephine (25), Klamath (83), Lake (22), Lane (157), Lincoln (19), Linn (46), Malheur (60), Marion (173), Morrow (7), Multnomah (86), Polk (56), Tillamook (5), Umatilla (134), Union (21), Wasco (34), Washington (100) and Yamhill (71).

Updated information is available on the number of COVID-19 deaths reported on Sept. 21. There was a total of 29 new deaths and 3,623 total deaths. COVID-19 data dashboards have been reflected to reflect this change.

Oregon’s 3,595th COVID-19 related death is a 93-year-old man from Clackamas County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept. 16 at Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,596th COVID-19 related death is an 85-year-old woman from Clackamas County who tested positive on Sept. 15 and died on Sept. 18 at Adventist Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,597th COVID-19 related death is a 63-year-old woman from Clackamas County who tested positive on Sept. 10 and died on Sept. 17 at Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,598th COVID-19 related death is an 87-year-old man from Benton County who tested positive on Sept. 12 and died on Sept. 17 at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,599th COVID-19 related death is a 70-year-old man from Baker County who tested positive on Sept. 3 and died on Sept. 18 at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,600th COVID-19 related death is an 83-year-old man from Baker County who tested positive on Sept. 3 and died on Sept. 16 at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,601st COVID-19 related death is a 91-year-old woman from Clackamas County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept. 20 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,602nd COVID-19 related death is a 47-year-old man from Columbia County who tested positive on Sept. 10 and died on Sept. 14. Location of death and presence of underlying conditions are being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,603rd COVID-19 related death is an 80-year-old man from Columbia County who tested positive on Sept. 1 and died on Sept. 11 at PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center in Longview. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,604th COVID-19 related death is an 87-year-old woman from Crook County who tested positive on Sept. 3 and died on Sept. 17 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,605th COVID-19 related death is a 94-year-old woman from Deschutes County who tested positive on Sept. 6 and died on Sept. 16 at St. Charles Bend Hospital. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,606th COVID-19 related death is a 78-year-old man from Harney County who tested positive on Sept. 12 and died on Sept. 18 at St. Charles Bend Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,607th COVID-19 related death is a 75-year-old woman from Harney County who tested positive on Sept. 8 and died on Sept. 20 at Harney District Hospital. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,608th COVID-19 related death is a 75-year-old man from Josephine County who tested positive on Sept. 13 and died on Sept. 20 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,609th COVID-19 related death is a 68-year-old woman from Josephine County who tested positive on Sept. 11 and died on Sept. 19 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,610th COVID-19 related death is a 75-year-old man from Jefferson County who tested positive on Sept. 8 and died on Sept. 18 at St. Charles Bend Hospital. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,611th COVID-19 related death is a 77-year-old man from Josephine County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept. 19 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,612nd COVID-19 related death is a 74-year-old man from Josephine County who tested positive on Sept. 1 and died on Sept. 17 at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,613rd COVID-19 related death is an 80-year-old man from Klamath County who tested positive on Sept. 3 and died on Sept. 14 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,614th COVID-19 related death is an 88-year-old woman from Washington County who tested positive on Aug. 23 and died on Sept. 17 at OHSU Health Hillsboro Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,615th COVID-19 related death is an 81-year-old woman from Union County who tested positive on Sept. 13 and died on Sept. 20 at her residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,616th COVID-19 related death is an 81-year-old man from Polk County who tested positive on Sept. 9 and died on Sept. 18 at Salem Hospital. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,617th COVID-19 related death is a 79-year-old woman from Multnomah County who tested positive on Aug. 9 and died on Sept. 18 at Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,618th COVID-19 related death is a 95-year-old woman from Marion County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept. 18 at Salem Hospital. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,619th COVID-19 related death is a 55-year-old woman from Marion County who tested positive on Sept. 9 and died on Sept. 15 at Salem Hospital. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,620th COVID-19 related death is a 71-year-old man from Marion County who tested positive on Sept. 7 and died on Sept. 16 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,621st COVID-19 related death is a 79-year-old man from Linn County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept. 19 at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,622nd COVID-19 related death is a 92-year-old woman from Lane County who tested positive on Sept. 18 and died on Sept. 18 at her residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,623rd COVID-19 related death is an 86-year-old man from Lane County who tested positive on Sept. 9 and died on Sept. 17 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon updates non-viable vaccine disclosure^1,2,3

OHA’s non-viable vaccine table has been moved to the Tableau dashboard. You can find the link to the weekly tab here. OHA reports updates on vaccines not being used each Tuesday in our daily media release.

¹Updated: 09/21/21 

²Data source: ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS)

³Data is preliminary and subject to change.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations  

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

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Vancouver, WA – Join Robert Schimelpfenig, WSU Vancouver Library’s Archivist, on Thursday, October 7 as he shares records from the Files of James E. Carty and discusses the former Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s unique relationship with the depression-era gangster, Alvin "Creepy" Karpis. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the event begins at 7 p.m.

Discover Carty’s role as a parole attorney and his contentious battle with J. Edgar Hoover. Learn about the continuing friendship Carty and Karpis maintained. Hear about the efforts and extraordinary technology the WSU Vancouver Library is pursuing to uncover hidden contents within the collection that are rendered inaccessible by an aging and obsolete media format.

"The James E. Carty Collection illustrates a breadth of Clark County history through the life and career of James Carty.” says Schimelpfenig, “A WSU alumnus who was born from local pioneer stock, Carty casts a significant imprint as a lawyer, politician, historian, joker, and an all-around good Samaritan. For a moment in the late 1960s he was thrust into the national spotlight as the man responsible for freeing Public Enemy #1, Alvin “Creepy” Karpis."

The Clark County Historical Museum’s Speaker Series is a monthly exploration of Clark County history with industry experts, community members, and local artists. For our 2021 Season, the Speaker Series central theme is “The Stories that Shape Our Community: Past, Present, Future.” We’ll explore the stories, struggles, and triumphs of the various people that call Clark County home.

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

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as it is seating is limited. For the safety of staff, visitors, and our families, CCHM does require proof of vaccination for admission to all CCHM events.

For those unable to attend our in-person Speaker Series event, we will also be providing a virtual Speaker Series. More information to follow.

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

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On Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at approximately 4:27 PM, Oregon State Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 36 near milepost 48.

Preliminary investigation revealed a Polaris ATV, operated by Robert Nelson (88) of Junction City was crossing Hwy 36 and was struck by a Honda Motorcycle, operated by Jesse Hayworth (34) of Springfield. 

Hayworth sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. Nelson and his passenger, Marjorie Nelson (87) were transported to Sacred Heart Medical Center at Riverbend with injuries. 

Hwy 36 was closed for approximately 3 hours. 

OSP was assisted by Junction City Police Department, Junction City Fire and ODOT. 

The City of Battle Ground is in the process of developing an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Transition Plan that will address improvements to public facilities such as sidewalks, curb ramps, push buttons, crosswalks, and on-street parking.   

The Americans with Disabilities Act requires an ADA Transition Plan from cities and other entities responsible for publicly-owned facilities. The city’s plan will identify obstacles that limit accessibility of facilities to people with disabilities and will serve as a guide for reaching compliance with ADA requirements.   

The process began earlier this year with a physical inventory of pedestrian facilities to help identify gaps and barriers to accessibility. The city is also seeking input from the community about mobility experiences and about specific barriers encountered within the city.    

The Mobility for All Community Survey will help the city better understand mobility experiences.  While the ADA Transition Plan will benefit greatly from feedback from people with disabilities or from those that provide support for people with disabilities, feedback is welcome and encouraged from everyone who travels within the city.

Obstacles, big and small, can make navigation difficult or impossible for members of our community. Some common examples are cracked or uneven sidewalks, lack of ramps or curbs at intersections, and obstructions in sidewalks.  An online Interactive Reporting tool is available for community members to easily map and describe any of these obstacles.

The survey and interactive reporting tool is open through Sunday, October 10.  The information gathered will help develop the city’s draft ADA Transition Plan, projected for completion in December of this year.  The draft plan will be available for public review prior to formal adoption by the Battle Ground City Council. 

Visit www.cityofbg.org/MobilityForAll for more information about the City of Battle Ground’s ADA Transition Plan.  The page will be updated as progress is made, and will include draft and final plans. 

A quick thinking family alerted firefighters that their house was on fire by running across the street to the fire station and ringing the visitor door bell. Firefighters at fire station 2 in Vancouver woke up just before 6 AM on Wednesday to a station announcement that stated “Attention station personnel, there is a visitor at the front door.” Crew members came to the front door and found 2 frantic kids pointing across the street from the fire station stating that their “house is on fire.” Firefighters then ran to the fire engine to don their turnout gear and drove the apparatus across the street arriving in record time. Upon arrival, crews found a residential house at 2101 Norris Road with light smoke throughout the structure. Homeowners stated they applied water to the laundry room behind the dryer and had sent their children to the fire station to alert the firefighters. Crews stretched a hose line inside to further cool the hot spots using a minimal amount of water. They also checked the attic space to confirm that the fire in the laundry room didn't spread vertically. The fire was brought under control by the home owners but fire crews spent a little over an hour assisting the residents. Red Cross was requested to provide aid to the 4 displaced family members. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal Office. 

Organizations selected by OnPoint employees provide localized, impactful services to diverse communities

PORTLAND, Ore., September 22, 2021— As part of its fifth annual employee giving campaign, OnPoint Community Credit Union today announced its employees have directed $99,100 to Girls Inc. of the Pacific Northwest, NAYA (Native American Youth and Family Center) and Hacienda CDC. To expand its impact across the region, OnPoint will divide another $10,000 among four regional non-profits: Northwest Youth Corps (Eugene), Unidos Bridging Community (McMinnville), Central Oregon Veterans Ranch (Central Oregon) and Salem Keizer Coalition for Equality (Salem). 

“The impact we have on our community starts with our employees,” said Rob Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Our employees are a part of the same communities we serve, and have selected incredible local organizations they know are making a difference across a spectrum of services and needs. OnPoint is proud to support all of them.”

Each year, OnPoint’s annual employee giving campaign donates $100 on behalf of each of its employees to select organizations that are making a difference in the community. The campaign resulted in donations of $37,650 to Girls Inc. of the Pacific Northwest, $33,750 to NAYA (Native American Youth and Family Center) and $27,700 to Hacienda CDC. 

“The issues we face as a society are complex and cannot be solved alone,” said Cyreena Boston Ashby, CEO of Girls Inc. of the Pacific Northwest. “The key to accomplishing our mission to help young girls grow up healthly, educated and independent is cultivating deep partnerships with local organizations like OnPoint that are so dedicated to building strong communities. We thank each one of OnPoint’s employees for their continued support, and we look forward to working together to continue the growth and development of young women in our community.” 

About this year’s recipients 

Girls Inc. of the Pacific Northwest

As the leading voice for girls in the region, Girls Inc. of the Pacific Northwest supports and inspires underserved girls in Portland, Vancouver and Seattle to be strong, smart and bold through life-changing programs and experiences for youth ages 6-18. To help local young women grow up healthy, educated and independent, Girls Inc., in partnership with local school districts and organizations, offers age-specific after-school programs like Euerka! and Girls Groups. Girls Inc.’s programs are centered around holistic youth development as participants learn to value their whole selves, discover and develop their inherent strengths, and receive the support they need to navigate challenges. To learn more, visit https://www.girlsincpnw.org/. 

The Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) is a family of numerous tribes and voices rooted in sustaining tradition and building cultural wealth. Since 1974, the local non-profit has provided culturally-specific programs and services that guide Native American people toward personal success and balance through cultural empowerment. NAYA’s services foster a holistic, healthy and family-driven environment for Native Americans across the Portland Metro Area. The NAYA Family Center impacts the lives of over 10,000 individuals from over 380 tribal backgrounds annually, providing early childhood and youth education, college and career planning support, housing guidance and more. To learn more, visit https://nayapdx.org/. 

Hacienda CDC is a Latino Community Development Corporation that strengthens families by providing affordable housing, homeownership support, economic advancement and educational opportunities. The non-profit was formed in 1986 to provide housing and supportive services to low-income, predominantly Latino communities. Today, Hacienda CDC provides safe, stable homes for over 1,500 individuals each year and has developed nine low-income properties across the Portland Metro Area. Hacienda CDC also developed the Portland Mercado in the Foster-Powell neighborhood, Portland’s first Latino public market home to 60+ businesses that bring together diverse cultures through food, art and entertainment. Learn more at https://haciendacdc.org/. 

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving more than 452,000 members and with assets of $8.8 billion. OnPoint membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 800-527-3932.

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Beginning in October 2021, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and Academia Duellatoria will offer training sessions in 19th century military saber methods and drills. Participants in this seven-week program will learn about the daily lives of US Army dragoons and how this distinctive weapon was used.

In December of 1855, nearly 100 troops and officers of the US Army’s 1st Regiment of Dragoons arrived at Fort Vancouver to help keep peace in the region. Dragoons were mounted infantry who carried a variety of personal weaponry, including sabers, a single-edged, slightly curved sword.

“We are pleased to be able to bring this program back with additional Covid safety protocols. Drills for sword work naturally require distancing, so this is a great way to get exercise, learn military history, and do something fun and unusual on your own or with your family,” said Elaine Dorset, National Park Service Supervisor of the Saber Training Program.

The training course is held on Sunday afternoons over seven weeks, October 17 through November 28, 2021. The cost is $100.00 per person and is open to ages 12 and up. Training sabers and safety equipment are provided, but all participants are required to bring and wear their own mask meeting Covid safety protocols. The sessions take place at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. To learn more, click here.

What: Raising the Roof Virtual Event

When: Thursday, September 23, 12:00 – 12:45 pm

Where: Online (https://www.ehfh.org/raising-the-roof-virtual-event-live-stream/)

Please join us for Evergreen Habitat for Humanity's 17th annual Raising the Roof Benefit on Thursday, September 23rd. Things continue to look a little different this year as we maintain social distancing to help stop the spread of COVID-19. As we have all learned during this difficult time, home is more important now than ever. That is why we are excited to continue the tradition of hosting our Annual Raising the Roof Benefit Breakfast. The event will be entirely virtual again this year, with a home dedication ceremony and exciting updates you won’t want to miss! We hope you’ll join us (online) this year!  

This year, we will be celebrating the completion of our latest home in Padden Park area of Vancouver. We will be dedicating the home for the Prival-Larsen family who have worked hard to make their dream of homeownership become a reality. Dave and Shelley have been together for many years. They have supported each other through their journeys to sobriety and have raised their daughter, Darby. Their next step in creating a bright future is the purchase of their Habitat home. They have been working on their home alongside students from Evergreen High School through the Geometry in Construction program. The family cannot wait until all their hard work culminates with their ultimate dream come true – homeownership!

At the event, we will hear from the Prival-Larsen family about their journey with Habitat and their plans for their new home. We will hand the keys to the family and watch as they see the inside of their new home for the first time.

This short 45-minute program will be fun, lighthearted, and offer the connection we all need during this challenging time. Andrea King, doctor at PeaceHealth Southwest and Habitat board member, will be our event emcee this year and will ensure a thought provoking and inspiring event.

Thank you to our generous sponsors for making this event possible. A special thank you to Realvest for being the Lead sponsor at this year’s event. We also want to thank Clark County Rental Association, Chicago Title Company and Fidelity National Title Company, Columbia River Financial Group, Imagine Homes Realty, Providence Health & Services, MolinaCares, and Robertson Engineering for being major sponsors of the event.
 

All funds raised by our generous community will go toward building strength, stability, and self-reliance through housing at our new Johnson Village subdivision.

For more information and to RSVP, please contact Lindsi Smith, Development Director at lindsi@ehfh.org or visit evergreenhabitat.org.

About Evergreen Habitat for Humanity: Since 1991, Evergreen Habitat for Humanity has been strengthening the community by building homes and hope for families across Southwest Washington. We believe in a world where everyone has a decent place to live, and our work unites people from across sectors to come together to build community. To date, Evergreen Habitat for Humanity has built 49 homes serving 189 children and adults. Your support makes this happen.

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Hines, Ore. – The Steens Mountain Advisory Council currently has several positions open for public nomination:

• a person interested in fish and recreational fishing in the Steens Mountain Cooperative Management
  and Protection Area;
• a person who is a grazing permittee on Federal lands in the CMPA;
• two people who are recognized environmental representatives, one to represent the State as a whole
  and one from the local area;
• a person who participates in mechanized or consumptive recreation in the CMPA, such as hunting,
  fishing, or off-road driving;
• a recreation permit holder or representative of a commercial recreation operation in the CMPA;
• a person to serve as the State government liaison to the Council;
• a private landowner within the CMPA; and,
• a member of the Burns Paiute Tribe.

If you are interested in public land management on Steens Mountain, this is a great opportunity to share your expertise and work with a collaborative group. The SMAC has been successful in bringing diverse and often competing interests to the table to deal with issues of mutual concern. This inclusive approach has shown great promise as a means to creatively and successfully deal with long-standing problems of public land management. Consensus-driven recommendations often lead to sustainable outcomes that benefit natural resources and have a high level of public support.

The Bureau of Land Management has Resource Advisory Councils that give citizen-based advice and recommendations on the management of public lands. These groups provide an opportunity for individuals from all backgrounds and interests to have a stronger impact on decisions made for public lands.

“Resource Advisory Councils provide the BLM with vital feedback on current issues, concerns and proposals, and enable us to engage local communities and stakeholders to improve our management of public lands,” said BLM Burns District Manager Jeff Rose.

To nominate someone, submit a membership application and supporting letters of recommendation from the groups or interests to be represented to the BLM Burns District Office, 28910 Hwy 20 West, Hines, Oregon. The application deadline is October 22, 2021.

Nomination forms can be picked up at this same location, by mail or phone request at (541) 573-4400, or online at: https://www.blm.gov/get-involved/resource-advisory-council/apply.

The specific category the nominee would like to represent should be identified in the nomination form and letters of reference. The BLM, Burns Paiute Tribe and the Governor of Oregon will review the applications and
submit recommended nominees to the Secretary of the Interior, who has the responsibility for making the appointments. Nominees are evaluated on their training, education, experience with, and knowledge of the Steens Mountain area.

Appointed members must reside in the State of Oregon. The SMAC generally holds quarterly meetings in Hines, Bend and Frenchglen. Although members serve without monetary compensation, travel and per diem expenses are reimbursed at current rates for government employees. SMAC members are normally appointed to three-year terms.
For more information on the SMAC, call Tara Thissell at (541) 573-4400.

--BLM--

This year, we invite everyone to reimagine your public lands as we celebrate 75 years of the BLM’s stewardship and service to the American people. The BLM manages approximately 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.

SALEM, Ore.—Public hearings are scheduled this week to gather feedback on the proposed administrative rule defining the “wildland-urban interface” (WUI) in Oregon. 

This proposed rule sets the definition of the WUI and provides the framework for the additional rulemaking needed to establish boundary criteria required by Senate Bill 762.

Public comment can be made by joining any of the public meetings at the specified time through the Zoom meeting links:

• Sept. 22, 2021, 2 p.m., Zoom meeting
• Sept. 23, 2021, 7 p.m., Zoom meeting
• Sept. 24, 2021, 9 a.m., Zoom meeting

Public input on the proposed rule will also be accepted by email until Oct. 1 at 762.rulemaking@oregon.gov">sb762.rulemaking@oregon.gov.

The department received input on the proposed WUI definition from a diverse group of stakeholders through a rulemaking advisory committee. The Board of Forestry approved the proposed administrative rule during a special meeting on August 24. 

General comments or questions the department’s implementation of Senate Bill 762 can be emailed to 762.rulemaking@oregon.gov">sb762.rulemaking@oregon.gov. Additionally, all RAC meetings have time set aside for public input. Meeting schedules and links to virtual meetings can be found on the ODF webpage for Senate Bill 762.

Lincoln County Emergency Management is encouraging community members, businesses, and community groups to participate in the 2021 Great Oregon ShakeOut. This event provides a chance for you to practice what you would do during an earthquake -wherever you may be at that time. While the official event takes place on Thursday, October 21, 2021 at 10:21 am, you can practice your drop, cover, and hold during the days leading up to or directly after the drill. The important part is to register if you participate.

By registering you will assist Lincoln County Public Safety agencies document the high level of preparedness in our community. Participation in this event shows that we are working together to strengthen our community resiliency and emergency preparedness. This event is also provides a good reminder to update your emergency plans and supplies. 

Below is a graphic on the annual summary of participants here in Lincoln County.

Oregon ShakeOut Statistics - www.shakeout.org/statistics/ 

Lincoln County residents live on the Cascadia Subduction Zone Earthquake Faultline. This means it is even more important for our communities to be informed and prepared. Keep an eye out for our new information and resource series, Cascadia: the Basics, coming this fall. 

More information on earthquake and tsunami preparedness:

Great Oregon ShakeOut

• Registration & General Information: www.shakeout.org/oregon/
• Recommended Earthquake Safety Actions: www.earthquakecountry.org/library/ShakeOut_Recommended_Earthquake_Safety_Actions.pdf
• Earthquake Guide for People with Disabilities: www.earthquakecountry.org/library/ShakeOut_Earthquake_Guide_Disabilities_AFN.pdf
• Media – PSA Resources: www.shakeout.org/oregon/resources/index.html#multimedia

Lincoln County Emergency Management 

• Hazards: Earthquakes: www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement/page/hazards-earthquake
• Hazards: Tsunamis: www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement/page/hazards-tsunamis
• Main page: www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement

CDC

• Preparing for an earthquake: www.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/prepared.html
• Tsunamis: www.cdc.gov/disasters/tsunamis/

Ready.gov

• Earthquakes: www.ready.gov/earthquakes
• Tsunamis: www.ready.gov/tsunamis

Red Cross

• Earthquake Safety: www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/earthquake.html

###

Respectfully submitted, 

Virginia "Jenny" Demaris
Emergency Manager
Lincoln County Sheriff's Office - Emergency Management
225 W. Olive St., Newport, Oregon 97365
is@co.lincoln.or.us">vdemaris@co.lincoln.or.us , (541) 265-4199 Office

 

Please reference CCSO Case # 21-019997

This afternoon (Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021), members of the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office and U.S. Marshals Service located and arrested Anthony Michael Lucero, 27, the suspect in a Sept. 16 Manslaughter case in unincorporated Clackamas County.

Shortly after 8 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, Clackamas County Sheriff's deputies responded to a report of a theft from Ross at 11211 SE 82nd Avenue in unincorporated Clackamas County. 

Sheriff's deputies arrived in the area, located the suspect vehicle, and attempted to stop the suspect vehicle. The suspect vehicle fled the scene. 

The suspect vehicle's driver -- identified as Anthony Michael Lucero -- failed to obey a traffic control device, entered the intersection of SE Bell Avenue and SE Johnson Creek Boulevard, and struck a vehicle in the intersection. Lucero then exited the suspect vehicle and ran from the scene, eluding authorities.

The driver of the vehicle stuck by Lucero can now be identified as Kris Lee Nickelson, 54, of Milwaukie. Mr. Nickelson was treated by deputies and Clackamas Fire paramedics at the scene and transported to a local hospital by AMR, where he later died. 

Mr. Nickelson's family is asking for privacy at this time.

Lucero's passenger in the suspect vehicle -- Aunajae Devine Smith, 22, of Portland -- was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. She later checked herself out of the hospital.

The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office K9 Unit, Milwaukie Police Department, and Portland Police Bureau assisted in the initial search for Lucero on Sept. 16.

The Clackamas County Inter-agency Major Crimes Team, Sheriff's Office detectives and Crime Scene Investigators (CSI), the Clackamas County DA's Office, and Criminal Reconstruction and Forensic Technicians (CRAFT) responded to the crash scene to investigate.

Lucero is expected to be booked into the Clackamas County Jail later today (Tuesday, Sept. 21) on charges including Manslaughter and Hit and Run. 

ADDITIONAL TIPS, INFO SOUGHT: Anyone with additional information regarding the Sept. 16 manslaughter or the criminal activities of Anthony Michael Lucero is urged to contact the Sheriff's Office Tip Line -- by phone at 503-723-4949 or by using the online email form at https://www.clackamas.us/sheriff/tip. Please reference CCSO Case # 21-019997.

[END]

For Immediate Release                                                                                    Contact: Courtney Dodds 

September 21, 2021                                                                                             971-275-2334 (cell)

Operation Overcoat Launching this Week to Provide Winter Gear to the Homeless 

Portland, Ore., - For more than 20 years Union Gospel Mission has helped those experiencing homelessness survive Winter through their annual Operation Overcoat campaign. Operation Overcoat provides a meal and backpacks with shoes, coats, pants and other vital winter supplies for those experiencing homelessness and in need. 

UGM, along with their partners, will be hosting several mini events that will deliver the backpacks and other vital supplies to help neighbors in need navigate the winter weather. Through this effort they anticipate reaching over 200 more people than last year. They increased their goal from 600 in 2020 to over 800 in 2021. 

None of this is possible without volunteers, on Wednesday, September 22^nd at 9:30 am a group of volunteers will be downtown at 3 NW Third Avenue assembling backpacks for distribution in the coming weeks.

The first distribution of backpacks will take place Friday, September 24th at 2 pm at 15 NW Third Avenue Portland. 

If you’d like to help, Union Gospel Mission is seeking donations of pants, new undergarments, sleeping bags, boots, and coats. Items can be dropped off at 3 NW Third Avenue, Portland. 

To support Operation Overcoat financially donations can be made online at www.ugmportland.org or call 503-274-4483. 

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

# # #

Station 54 serving the Charbonneau and Wilsonville area is now open. Firefighters have been busy unpacking and settling into the new station while responding to emergency calls for service. 

The 2,592-square-foot station houses a two-person crew operating Rescue 54. A rescue is a medical transport unit staffed with two firefighter paramedics who can also respond to fires. The station is located within the Willamette Professional Building on Miley Road with quick access to Interstate 5.

Firefighters are excited to serve this area in a station that features individual sleeping quarters and comfortably accommodates firefighters of all genders. The station’s smaller footprint reflects Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue’s dynamic service delivery model as most calls for service in the area are medical in nature. 

District leadership have sought a permanent property to site a fire station to better serve the Charbonneau area for several years but when a long-term option could not be found, it was decided that a lease within the Willamette Professional Building location was the best option available. The fire district intends to continue looking for property as a permanent station location is preferred. Visit www.tvfr.com for more information on how TVF&R serves its 390-square-mile service area.

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September 21, 2021

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

Oregon reports 1,707 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 30 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 30 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 3,624, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 1,707 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 314,841.

Public Health Indicators Dashboard update

Today, OHA updated the summary tables for the Public Health Indicators Dashboard to include counts in addition to percentages for 1) emergency department visits for COVID-19-like illness visits, 2) timely case follow-up by local public health departments, and 3) cases traced to a known source. These dashboards are published weekly on Tuesdays with the most recent full week’s data. An error was identified and corrected in the percentage of COVID-19-like illness calculation, bringing the Public Health Indicators Dashboard into alignment with the emergency department data published daily in Oregon’s COVID-19 Update.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 944, which is 24 fewer than yesterday. There are 264 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is 14 fewer than yesterday.

There are 59 available adult ICU beds out of 655 total (9% availability) and 347 available adult non-ICU beds out of 4,280 (8% availability).

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

Note: Please do not visit an emergency department for COVID-19 testing, unless you require emergency care for your symptoms.

Emergency departments in Oregon are under significant strain responding to the current surge in COVID-19. You can find a test here.  

If you have a medical condition that doesn’t require emergency care, contact your provider. An urgent care center may also help you get the care you need and will save emergency departments from added strain.  

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 7,500 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry on Sept. 20. Of this total, 3,206 were administered on Sept. 20: 1,322 were initial doses, 1,293 were second doses and 563 were third doses. The remaining 4,294 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Sept. 20.

The seven-day running average is now 7,754 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered 2,925,018 doses of Pfizer Comirnaty, 1,889,267 doses of Moderna and 211,054 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines.

As of today, 2,710,562 people have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 2,474,067 people have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

Updated vaccination data are provided on Oregon’s COVID-19 related data dashboards and have been updated today.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (18), Benton (18), Clackamas (110), Clatsop (15), Columbia (12), Coos (86), Crook (13), Curry (11), Deschutes (80), Douglas (85), Grant (29), Harney (34), Hood River (4), Jackson (76), Jefferson (17), Josephine (25), Klamath (83), Lake (22), Lane (157), Lincoln (19), Linn (46), Malheur (60), Marion (173), Morrow (7), Multnomah (86), Polk (56), Tillamook (5), Umatilla (134), Union (21), Wasco (34), Washington (100) and Yamhill (71).

Note: More information about the cases and deaths will be provided in an updated news release.

Oregon updates non-viable vaccine disclosure^1,2,3

OHA’s non-viable vaccine table has been moved to the Tableau dashboard. You can find the link to the weekly tab here. OHA reports updates on vaccines not being used each Tuesday in our daily media release.

¹Updated: 09/21/21 

²Data source: ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS)

³Data is preliminary and subject to change.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations  

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

# # #

Gresham-Barlow School District partners with Care Solace to provide support for families and staff in finding community-based providers who can meet their needs

The Gresham-Barlow School District is partnering with Care Solace to expand access to community mental health and substance use treatment providers for the district’s families and school staff. Care Solace provides a Care Companion™ team who can quickly and confidentially find available providers in the community. Families and staff will also be able to access the Care Solace online tool to anonymously search for community-based providers.

“We are committed to the well-being of our students and staff as we work to create a safe and healthy learning environment,” said Superintendent James Hiu. “This new partnership will help our families and school staff easily find mental health care providers in the community equipped to meet their needs.” 

With Care Solace, families and staff gain access to a dedicated Care Companion™ to navigate the mental health care system on their behalf, calling providers to find the right fit and availability. They help families with private insurance, Medicaid, and no insurance, and are available 24/7/365 in any language.

Care Solace’s care navigation system uses proprietary technology and a vast database of behavioral and mental health care resources to find carefully verified therapists and programs in minutes.

"The return to in-person learning and the lasting effects of loss and grief pose new challenges for staff and families in the 2021-22 school year," said Chad Castruita, Founder and CEO of Care Solace. "We are proud to support the Gresham-Barlow School District  in prioritizing the well-being of its school community by providing timely access into mental health care and substance use treatment services.”

The Care Solace service is now available at no cost to Gresham-Barlow students, staff, and their families. For more information about Care Solace, please visit https://www.caresolace.org/.

Update: 

Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office detectives investigating the explosion that occurred in a Troutdale neighborhood on Monday, September 13, 2021, have determined there is no danger to the public, and that the death is not criminal in any way. The family of the deceased has asked that the individual’s identity and the manner of death not be released. Because there is no threat to the public, MCSO is honoring their request. The family is asking for privacy at this time and does not wish to be contacted by the media.

In the days following this incident, we received multiple requests for information about a second explosive device call that occurred on the evening of Monday, September 13, along I-84 in Troutdale. We understand that there is concern from the public that the two incidents are linked. We can say with complete confidence, they are not related. After an investigation into claims that explosive chemicals were present in a vehicle, it was determined that the claim was false.

MCSO appreciates the public’s interest and care of these incidents in their communities. We ask that the public follow us on our social media accounts for verified information. At this time, no further comment will be made. ###

Original news release:

On Monday, September 13, 2021, at 2:19 a.m., Multnomah County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the 600 block of Southeast 42^nd Circle in Troutdale after callers reported a loud explosion and vehicle fire in the area.

Deputies arriving at the scene located the vehicle. Gresham Fire Department responded to the scene and extinguished the fire. Upon further investigation, a person was located inside the burned vehicle. The individual, an adult male, was pronounced dead at the scene. 

MCSO detectives are being assisted by the Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office, Gresham Police Department Explosives Disposal Unit, Gresham Fire Investigators and Special Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). ATF is providing a certified explosives specialist, a certified fire expert and an explosives detection K9. Investigators are working to determine what caused the explosion, which is believed to have originated inside the vehicle. 

The deceased individual was transported to the Medical Examiner’s Office. The cause and manner of death are yet to be determined. Investigators are not yet releasing the identity of the individual. 

Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) volunteers and the American Red Cross responded to the area to assist affected community members. 

There is no danger to the public, nor threat of additional explosions. There were no reports of additional injuries or injuries to first responders.

The investigation is ongoing. No further information can be released at this time.

Gresham, Ore.— On September 20, 2021 at approximately 6:15pm, Gresham Police received a call about shots that were heard in the parking lot of the Walmart at 3900 W Powell boulevard, near SE 182nd. While police were still headed to the scene, multiple callers to 911 were reporting that someone in the parking lot had been shot, so medical crews were also requested. The victim, later identified as 38-year-old Dashawn Hudson, of Portland, died at the scene from his injuries.

Detectives and crime scene investigators were called to the scene to interview witnesses and collect evidence in order to find out what lead up to this incident. If you witnessed the incident and have not talked to police yet, or if have any information about this case, please call the Gresham Police tip line at 503-618-2719 or toll free at 888-989-3505, callers can remain anonymous.

### 

Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021

Salem – Heading off to college is an exciting time for many young adults. As colleges and universities across the state welcome students back to campus, the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation is sharing five ways young adults and their parents can financially prepare for the adventure.

1. Insure your belongings – Check with your insurance company about covering your belongings. Ask about renters insurance, and use the division’s shopping guide to find the right insurance coverage for you.
2. Understand how you are paying for college – Make sure you understand the financial aid offer and terms of your student loans. Make a plan, and update it regularly, to ensure you graduate with debt you can afford.
3. Take credit cards seriously – Credit cards can help build your credit profile, but charges can add up fast. Before applying to get that free gift, review the fine print and weigh the pros and cons. You may need a co-signer, or you could be an authorized user on someone else’s card, if they also manage their credit well. Remember, pay the balance in full each month; don’t pay interest for that late-night pizza.   
4. Start a budget – Map out a monthly budget to make sure you have enough money for important expenses, such as books, loans, food, and rent. This will also help you see how much you have available for fun activities and building up your savings.
5. Find a bank or credit union – If you are going to be opening new checking and savings accounts, do some research to choose the one that provides the best rates and perks. Bank On Oregon lists some financial institutions with low-cost accounts. If you already have a bank or credit union, check to see if it has a branch close to campus or make sure it has the apps and tools to meet your needs online. Banks and credit unions are federally insured and protect your deposits, unlike Venmo and PayPal accounts.

In addition to these five steps, the division encourages young adults and their parents to consider these additional ways to financially prepare for college. 

• Review health insurance – Students can remain on their parents’ health insurance plans until age 26. Make sure there are in-network providers available near the campus. If the health plan does not offer adequate in-network coverage in the area, see if the school has a student health plan that may provide better coverage. Remember, a cheaper premium does not always mean comprehensive health coverage. 
• Review auto insurance – Make sure your auto insurance will cover the student as the primary driver and that the physical address of the car is updated. Be sure to double check the auto coverages on the car and that you have the right deductible amounts on your policy to make sure they fit your needs. 
• Prepare for disaster – Disasters can happen anywhere. Take time to prepare for a disaster at your new location. A few simple tasks, such as building an emergency kit, creating a home inventory and making copies of important documents, will help save time, money, and stress when disaster strikes. Use this guide to help you prepare.

There are several ways to get financially ready for college. Starting with these steps will prepare you for your time away from home and help build a financial foundation you can build on for a lifetime. 

If you have questions about your insurance or financial accounts, talk with your company representative, agent, or broker. If you still have questions or concerns, free help is available from the Division of Financial Regulation’s consumer advocates: 

• Call: 888-877-4894 (toll-free)
• Email: .insurancehelp@oregon.gov">dfr.insurancehelp@oregon.gov, .financialserviceshelp@oregon.gov">dfr.financialserviceshelp@oregon.gov 
• Visit:  dfr.oregon.gov

###

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

September 20, 2021

This news release is an updated version to include case and death information.

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

Oregon reports 3,359 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 25 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 25 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 3,594 the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 3,359 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 313,161.

The 25 new deaths and 3,349 new cases reported today include data recorded by counties for the 3-day period between Friday, Sept. 17 and Sunday, Sept. 19.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 7,996 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry on Sept. 19. Of this total, 558 were administered on Sept. 19: 262 were initial doses, 273 were second doses and 20 were third doses. The remaining 4,400 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Sept. 19.

The seven-day running average is now 7,996 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered 2,919,890 doses of Pfizer Comirnaty, 1,887,420 doses of Moderna and 210,541 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines.

As of today, 2,707,467 people have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 2,470,161 people have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

Updated vaccination data are provided on Oregon’s COVID-19 related data dashboards and have been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 968, which is one fewer than yesterday. There are 278 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is one more than yesterday.

There are 63 available adult ICU beds out of 651 total (10% availability) and 330 available adult non-ICU beds out of 4,246 (8% availability).

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

Note: Please do not visit an emergency department for COVID-19 testing, unless you require emergency care for your symptoms.

Emergency departments in Oregon are under significant strain responding to the current surge in COVID-19. You can find a test here.  

If you have a medical condition that doesn’t require emergency care, contact your provider. An urgent care center may also help you get the care you need and will save emergency departments from added strain.  

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (26), Benton (74), Clackamas (258), Clatsop (15), Columbia (40), Coos (59), Crook (3), Curry (5), Deschutes (225), Douglas (115), Gilliam (1), Grant (3), Harney (18), Hood River (15), Jackson (226), Jefferson (32), Josephine (127), Klamath (56), Lake (16), Lane (363), Lincoln (35), Linn (171), Malheur (38), Marion (398), Morrow (14), Multnomah (413), Polk (55), Tillamook (19), Umatilla (49), Union (67), Wallowa (7), Wasco (23), Washington (313) and Yamhill (80).

Oregon reports 1,597 confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases on Sept. 17, 996 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases on Sept.18, and 766 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases on Sept.19.

Oregon’s 3,570th COVID-19 related death is a 91-year-old man from Deschutes County who tested positive on Sept. 2 and died on Sept. 14 at St Charles Bend Hospital. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,571st COVID-19 related death is an 88-year-old man from Crook County who tested positive on Sept. 6 and died on Sept. 17 at St. Charles Bend Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,572nd COVID-19 related death is a 91-year-old woman from Clackamas County who tested positive on Sept. 3 and died on Sept. 15 at her residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,573rd COVID-19 related death is a 62-year-old man from Baker County who tested positive on Sept. 8 and died on Sept. 12 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,574th COVID-19 related death is a 77-year-old man from Deschutes County who tested positive on Aug. 27 and died on Sept. 18 at St. Charles Bend Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,575th COVID-19 related death is a 50-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on Aug. 17 and died on Sept. 17 at Mercy Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,576th COVID-19 related death is a 46-year-old woman from Douglas County who tested positive on Aug. 30 and died on Sept. 17 at Mercy Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,577th COVID-19 related death is an 83-year-old man from Douglas County who tested positive on Aug. 25 and died on Sept. 17 at Mercy Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,578th COVID-19 related death is a 70-year-old woman from Lincoln County who tested positive on Sept. 2 and died on Sept. 4. Location of death and presence of underlying conditions are being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,579th COVID-19 related death is a 64-year-old man from Josephine County who first had symptoms on Sept. 3 and died on Sept. 12 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,580th COVID-19 related death is a 79-year-old man from Josephine County who tested positive on Sept. 4 and died on Sept. 15 at Providence Medford Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,581st COVID-19 related death is an 81-year-old man from Jackson County who tested positive on Sept. 5 and died on Sept. 16 at Providence Medford Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,582nd COVID-19 related death is a 57-year-old woman from Jackson County who tested positive on Sept. 1 and died on Sept. 17 at Providence Medford Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,583rd COVID-19 related death is a 73-year-old man from Harney County who tested positive on Sept. 14 and died on Sept. 18 at Harney District Hospital. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,584th COVID-19 related death is a 58-year-old woman from Linn County who tested positive on Sept. 7 and died on Sept. 14 at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,585th COVID-19 related death is a 70-year-old man from Marion County who tested positive on Aug. 26 and died on Sept. 15 at Salem Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,586th COVID-19 related death is a 45-year-old woman from Marion County who tested positive on Sept. 6 and died on Sept. 16 at Salem Hospital. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,587th COVID-19 related death is an 80-year-old man from Marion County who tested positive on Sept. 2 and died on Sept. 13 at Salem Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,588th COVID-19 related death is a 68-year-old man from Marion County who tested positive on Aug. 24 and died on Sept. 14 at Silverton Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,589th COVID-19 related death is a 67-year-old woman from Marion County who tested positive on Aug. 26 and died on Sept. 13 at Salem Hospital. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,590th COVID-19 related death is a 64-year-old man from Union County who tested positive on Sept. 10 and died on Sept. 17 at Grande Ronde Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,591st COVID-19 related death is a 94-year-old man from Washington County who tested positive on Aug. 23 and died on Aug. 28 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 3,592nd COVID-19 related death is a 68-year-old man from Washington County who tested positive on July 26 and died on July 31 at Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,593rd COVID-19 related death is a 70-year-old woman from Washington County who tested positive on July 24 and died on Sept. 11 at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 3,594th COVID-19 related death is a 64-year-old woman from Washington County who tested positive on May 30 and died on July 1 at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations  

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

# # #

September 21, 2021

Contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@state.or.us

Nurse Staffing Advisory Board, Civil Monetary Penalties Committee meets virtually Oct. 1

What: The Nurse Staffing Advisory Board’s Civil Monetary Penalties Committee is holding its third meeting.

Agenda:

• Review the meeting agenda and summary from Sept. 10 meeting and review status of action items from last meeting.
• Discuss Table 1 – Civil Penalty Assessments and advise on objective measurements for Table elements.
• Advise on factors that may impact size of CMP imposed.
• Summarize action items and next steps.

The agenda will be available on www.healthoregon.org/nursestaffing.

When: Oct. 1, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Where: ZoomGov meeting. Dial : +1 669 254 5252 (PST)

Meeting ID: 161 973 4416

Passcode: 151930

Background: The Nurse Staffing Advisory Board advises the Oregon Health Authority on the administration of Oregon’s nurse staffing laws; identifies trends, opportunities and concerns related to nurse staffing; makes recommendations to the Oregon Health Authority based on those trends, opportunities and concerns; and reviews the enforcement powers and processes under Oregon’s nurse staffing laws.

Program contact: Kimberly Voelker

ox.nursestaffing@state.or.us">Mailbox.nursestaffing@state.or.us

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 Kimberly Voelker, MPH, at 971-803-0914, 711 TTY or erly.n.voelker@dhsoha.state.or.us">kimberly.n.voelker@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

BEND, OR — Across the American West, drought, dense forests and extreme weather exacerbated by climate change are contributing to catastrophic fires. The wildfire season is getting longer, and fires are becoming more intense and frequent.

Artist Bryan David Griffith found inspiration in fires to pose valuable questions. His artistic works will come to the High Desert Museum starting Saturday, October 16 in the exhibition Rethinking Fire.

Dualities in nature–life and death, forest and fire–are at the heart of Griffith’s artwork. The exhibition includes encaustic beeswax paintings, fire studies on paper and large-scale burned wood sculptures.

Griffith investigates opposing forces in nature by using fire itself as a medium alongside other materials including wood and beeswax. His work reveals the human desire to control natural processes, often with unintended consequences. Rethinking Fire fosters a space where viewers can experience their own discoveries and pose their own questions. 

Griffith’s journey into artwork began while studying engineering at the University of Michigan. After stumbling on a copy of Henry Horenstein’s Black and White Photography: A Basic Manual, he built a makeshift darkroom. He began a career with an international management consulting firm after graduation. However, Griffith was troubled by the environmental impact of his clients. He ultimately resigned to pursue photography full-time, adopting a nomadic life and saving every dime for film and gas. The experience led to a personal connection with America’s public lands, reflected in his first collection of images, Listen to the Wild. 

In 2014, Griffith’s home and studio were threatened by the Slide Fire in Sedona, Arizona. Coming out of the experience, he received a grant to study fire in the field with scientists as part of a group project called Fires of Change, funded by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Joint Fire Science Consortium. The work from the project earned the 2016 Viola Award from the Flagstaff Arts Council and sparked the solo exhibition Rethinking Fire at the Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum in Arizona. Griffith currently lives in the mountain town of Flagstaff, Arizona with his wife, Tasha.

“We are experiencing landscape-altering wildfires more frequently in the High Desert,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “Rethinking Fire offers a different vantage point through art, demonstrating that a force like wildfire that can be intensely destructive can also create awareness, resilience and a call to action.”

Griffith’s work is in public collections at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; University of Michigan Museum of Art; Center for Creative Photography and Fort Wayne Museum of Art. He has exhibited extensively throughout the United States.

Rethinking Fire (highdesertmuseum.org/rethinking-fire) will be on display through January 9, 2022.

The exhibit is possible with support from Alex Hodge Construction, Cascade A&E, Land Rover Portland, Tonkon Torp, Vernam Crane Services and the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and is a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

(Salem) – El viernes, el gobierno federal anunció la extensión del período anual de inscripción abierta para comprar un seguro médico privado para el año del plan 2022 del 1 de noviembre al 15 de enero.

Junto con la extensión, los habitantes de Oregón tendrán la oportunidad de acceder más ahorros financieros que hayan estado disponibles en el pasado a través del Mercado de Seguros de Salud de Oregón debido al Plan de Rescate Americano. El Plan de Rescate Americano inició ahorros adicionales al eliminar el límite superior de ingresos para calificar para la asistencia financiera, y también disminuyó el monto de la prima que los consumidores son responsables de pagar antes de que estén disponibles los créditos fiscales.

• Se ha determinado que más del 80 por ciento de los habitantes de Oregón son elegibles para recibir ayuda financiera a través del Mercado desde el 1 de abril, cuando entraron en vigencia las disposiciones del Plan de Rescate Americano.
• Los habitantes de Oregon están recibiendo un promedio de $437 por mes en créditos fiscales para la prima para reducir su prima mensual gracias a la elegibilidad ampliada.

El Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregón ofrece un resumen de los planes y ahorros para los habitantes de Oregón elegibles. La herramienta, disponible en OregonHealthCare.gov/WindowShop, se ha actualizado para calcular correctamente los ahorros adicionales que ahora están disponibles para las personas que compran a través del Mercado. La herramienta se mejorará nuevamente este otoño para permitir a los habitantes de Oregón determinar si sus proveedores preferidos están cubiertos por cada plan. Los residentes de Oregon también podrán ver si sus medicamentos recetados están cubiertos y cuáles serán los costos estimados para los medicamentos recetados en cada plan. Los cambios estarán disponibles en la herramienta en octubre.

¿Aún necesita cobertura médica para 2021? Es posible que pueda inscribirse en un período de inscripción especial. Comience en CuidadoDeSalud.Oregon.gov para llegar a la solicitud correcta o para encontrar un agente de seguros o una organización comunitaria asociada que lo ayude a completar la solicitud e inscribirse. Los agentes de seguros y los socios comunitarios brindan asistencia local personalizada sin cargo. Esta ayuda está disponible virtualmente, por teléfono y en persona siguiendo protocolos de seguridad.

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El Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregon, una parte del gobierno estatal, ayuda a las personas a conseguir seguro médico cuando no tienen cobertura a través de su trabajo, y no califican para el Plan de Salud de Oregon u otro programa. El Mercado es el socio al nivel estatal a CuidadoDeSalud.gov. Para obtener más información, visite CuidadoDeSalud.Oregon.gov.

Welcome to the Oregon FBI’s Tech Tuesday segment. Today: Building a digital defense against coin cons.

The FBI and the Department of Treasury have a warning today about fraudsters who are targeting coin collectors and investors through online auction, social media, and retail websites.

There are three types of counterfeit coins: transactional coins (quarters, dimes, etc.), numismatics (high value collectables), and bullion (precious metals). The scammers are using online ads, claiming the coins are authentic; however, consumers are receiving fake coins and precious metals.

Online estimates reveal that consumers spend millions of dollars buying valuable or rare coins, but most receive near-worthless foreign-made counterfeits. The U.S. government is seizing an increasing number of counterfeit coins at US ports-of-entry. For example, in April 2021, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at Chicago’s international mail facility seized 279 shipments from China containing counterfeit coins and currency. In 2020, CBP seized more $1.64 million in counterfeit cash and coins at Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

Scammers capitalized on the financial uncertainty and nationwide coin shortage brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic to take advantage of amateur investors online. Many victims find purchasing online an easy method to make investments, as they can easily find what they are looking for, pay cheaper prices, and have their investments delivered right to their door. It’s a great option, if you find a legitimate vendor.

Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Only make purchases from reputable, registered coin dealers. 
• If you decide to purchase outside this venue, ensure that the coins are tested by a certified organization before making a purchase.
• Research online sellers before buying coins and precious metals online. Check online reviews and Better Business Bureau complaints before making a purchase.
• If you believe that you are the victim of a counterfeit coin scheme, immediately report the activity to the online payment provider or credit card company used for the transaction. 

If you end up with counterfeit coins involving U.S. currency, you should file a report with your local U.S. Secret Service office. You can also file a complaint with the U.S. Treasury Office of Inspector General. All non-currency coins and bullion should be reported to the Anti-Counterfeiting Task Force.

If you are the victim of an online fraud, you should also report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or call your FBI local office.  

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On Monday, September 20, 2021 at approximately 12:45 PM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 212 near milepost 5. 

Preliminary investigation revealed a Ford Focus, operated by an unidentified female, was eastbound when it crossed into the westbound lane and struck a Dodge Ram 1500, operated by Cameron Ellet (19) of Boring. 

The unidentified operator of the Ford Focus sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.  Ellet was wearing a seatbelt and sustained minor injuries. 

Hwy 212 was closed for approximately 3.5 hours.

OSP was assisted by Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, AMR and ODOT. 

LAIKA CONTINUES 15TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION WITH SCREENINGS OF ALL ITS OSCAR®-NOMINATED FILMS AND Q&As WITH KEY FILMMAKERS AT THE OREGON MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY FROM OCTOBER 15-31 

The lauded animation studio will display all its ‘hero’ puppets and some of its most memorable sets from each film at Portland’s world class science museum
 

[Hillsboro, OR; Sept. 21, 2021] -- LAIKA, whose five films (Missing Link, Kubo and the Two Strings, The

Boxtrolls, ParaNorman and Coraline) have all received Oscar® nominations for Best Animated Film, will

partner with the Oregon Museum of Science & Industry (OMSI) for multiple screenings of all its films as

well as filmmaker discussions and a display of puppets and sets this October. For ticket information,

please visit https://omsi.edu/laika-at-omsi.

Last week, LAIKA announced it is currently in production on the animated feature film Wildwood, based

on the bestselling novel written by Colin Meloy, lead singer and songwriter for The Decemberists, and

illustrated by artist Carson Ellis. LAIKA President & CEO Travis Knight will direct. 

LAIKA was awarded a Scientific & Technical Oscar® in 2016 for its innovations in facial animation and

won the BAFTA for Kubo and the Two Strings and the Golden Globe for Missing Link. At the heart of

every LAIKA film are the artists who meticulously craft every element. Through its display of puppets

and sets from all of LAIKA’s Oscar®-nominated films, visitors to OMSI can immerse themselves in LAIKA’s

creative process, exploring the production design, sets, props, puppets, costumes, and world-building

that have become the studio’s hallmarks. LAIKA films are a triumph of imagination, ingenuity and

craftsmanship and have redefined the limits of modern animation. During the two-week engagement,

some of the key artists who created each film will engage with visitors in a series of Q&As and showings

at OMSI’s Empirical Theater. 
 

“Animation has a unique ability to entertain, educate, and inspire audiences. We feel so fortunate to

have LAIKA here in Portland providing us the unique opportunity to spotlight their creative, awardwinning

films,” said Russ Repp, VP of Retail and Marketing at OMSI. “LAIKA’s work aligns with our

mission to inspire curiosity in people of all ages, so we’re delighted to celebrate their 15 years of artistic

innovation by hosting this truly special event.” 
 

“We couldn’t be more pleased to be working with a world-class institution like OMSI to share the magic

of LAIKA’s filmmaking with our hometown fans,” said David Burke, Chief Marketing Officer MO & SVP,

Business Operations at LAIKA. “Our studio has a unique approach to filmmaking, enhancing the artisanal

stop-motion technique with technological innovations and through installations like this, fans have a

chance to see that artistry up close whilst getting some behind the scenes details from our filmmakers.” 
 

LAIKA’s ‘hero’ or main character puppets as well as Moonbeast and the Skeleton (small scale) from Kubo

and the Two Strings will be on display as well as several memorable sets, including:
 

• Coraline’s Other Kitchen with Other Mother/Other Father and Beldam’s Sewing table from Coraline 

• Interior of Norman’s Bedroom and Mitch’s van with the gang and Zombie judge from ParaNorman 

• Sparky's Market tent and Snatcher’s Truck from The Boxtrolls 

• Kubo's market building from Kubo and the Two Strings 

• Sir Lionel's apartment and Adelina’s boat cabin from Missing Link 

Some of LAIKA’s most notable artists will be on hand for in-person Q&As:

Friday, October 15: Ollie Jones, Director of Practical Effects

Saturday, October 16: Production Designer Nelson Lowry

Sunday, October 17: VFX Supervisor Steve Emerson

Friday, October 22: ParaNorman and Missing Link writer/director Chris Butler

Saturday, October 23: Brian McLean, Director of Rapid Prototyping (3D Printing)

Sunday, October 24: Animation Supervisor Brad Schiff

Friday, October 29: VFX Supervisor Steve Emerson

Saturday, October 30: Head of Production/Producer Arianne Sutner

LAIKA FILMOGRAPHY

MISSING LINK (2019)

Mr. Link, AKA Bigfoot (voiced by Zach Galifianakis), is lonely and believes that famed investigator of

myths, Sir Lionel Frost (Hugh Jackman), is the one man who can help. With adventurer Adelina Fortnight

(Zoe Saldana), the trio embarks on an epic journey to find Link’s distant relatives in the fabled Shangri-

La. Along the way each finds their true identity. 

KUBO AND THE TWO STRINGS (2016)

An epic action-adventure set in a fantastical Japan. Clever, kindhearted Kubo's (voiced by Art Parkinson

of Game of Thrones) relatively quiet existence is upended when he accidentally summons a spirit from

his past which storms down from the heavens to enforce an age-old vendetta. Now on the run, Kubo

joins forces with Monkey (Academy Award® winner Charlize Theron) and Beetle (Academy Award®

winner Matthew McConaughey), and sets out on a thrilling quest to save his family and solve

the mystery of his fallen father, the greatest samurai warrior the world has ever known. With the help

of his shamisen - a magical musical instrument - Kubo battles gods, monsters, and epic landscapes to

unlock the secret of his legacy, reunite his family and fulfill his heroic destiny. 
 

THE BOXTROLLS (2014)

The Boxtrolls, a kind-hearted community of quirky, mischievous, fantastical box-wearing tinkerers, have

lovingly raised a human orphan, Eggs (voiced by Isaac Hempstead-Wright of Game of Thrones), since

infancy. In the amazing cavernous home they’ve built beneath the cobblestoned streets of

Cheesebridge, they transform mechanical junk into magical inventions and live a happy and harmonious

existence away from the posh society above that fears them thanks to the scary stories spread by the

villainous Archibald Snatcher (Academy Award® winner Ben Kingsley). When Eggs and his Boxtrolls

family become increasingly at risk because of Cheesebridge's citizens misunderstanding them, Eggs must

venture above ground, “into the light,” where he meets and teams up with another 11-year-old, the

fabulously feisty Winnie (Elle Fanning). Together, Eggs and Winnie devise a daring plan to save the

Boxtrolls from Snatcher, embarking on an adventure with madcap antics and open hearts which proves

that heroes come in all shapes and sizes – even rectangles. 
 

PARANORMAN (2012)

ParaNorman is the thrilling story of 11-year-old Norman Babcock (Kodi Smith-McPhee) who must use his

unique ability to see and speak with the dead to save his town from a centuries-old curse. In addition to

spooky zombies, he’ll also have to take on mysterious ghosts, wily witches and, worst of all, clueless

grown-ups. Now caught in a wild race against time to save his family, friends, and town, Norman must

bravely summon up all that makes a hero – courage and compassion – as he finds his paranormal

activities pushed to their otherworldly limits. Voice cast includes Anna Kendrick, Leslie Mann and

Christopher Mintz-Plasse. 
 

CORALINE (2009)

Coraline Jones (Dakota Fanning) is bored in her new home until she finds a secret door that leads her

into a world that’s just like her own…but better! But when this fantastical adventure turns dangerous

and her “other” Mother (Teri Hatcher) tries to keep her forever, Coraline must count on all of her

resourcefulness, determination, and bravery to get back home – and save her family.

About OMSI

Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation’s leading

science museums and an award-winning educational resource for the kid in each of us. As a private,

non-profit organization, OMSI does not receive any government funding, but relies on earned and

contributed revenue for its operating expenses. OMSI operates the largest museum-based outdoor

science education program in the country and provides traveling and community outreach programs

that bring science learning opportunities to schools and community organizations throughout Oregon

and the region. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214. For general information,

call 503.797.4000 or visit omsi.edu. Connect with the museum on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About LAIKA

LAIKA, founded in 2005 in Oregon and shaped by the vision of its President & CEO Travis Knight, is a

studio that combines a classic commitment to artistry and the cinematic crafts with a delight in

innovation and cutting-edge techniques. The studio’s five films, Coraline (2009), ParaNorman (2012),

The Boxtrolls (2014), Kubo and the Two Strings (2016) and Missing Link (2019) were all nominated for

the Academy Award® for Outstanding Animated Feature. Kubo and the Two Strings won the BAFTA

Award for Best Animated Film and received an additional Oscar® nomination for Visual Effects. Missing

Link was awarded the Golden Globe® for Best Animated Film. LAIKA was also awarded a Scientific and

Technology Oscar® plaque in 2016 for its innovation in 3D printing. Recently, the studio announced its

first live action feature film based on the action thriller novel Seventeen by screenwriter John Brownlow.

Travis Knight will direct LAIKA’s sixth animated feature film Wildwood, which is currently in production

and is based on the novel by Colin Meloy, lead singer and songwriter for The Decemberists, and

illustrated by Carson Ellis. @LAIKAStudios

Media Contacts:

For OMSI 
Britt Cutsforth Dawkins 
ess@omsi.edu">press@omsi.edu 

For LAIKA
Maggie Begley/MBC 
Maggie@mbcprinc.com 

(Salem) – On Friday, the federal government announced the extension of the annual open enrollment period to purchase private health insurance for the 2022 plan year from Nov. 1 to Jan. 15.

Along with the extension, Oregonians will have the opportunity to access the most amount of financial savings that have ever been available through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace due to the American Rescue Plan. The American Rescue Plan initiated additional savings by removing the upper income limit to qualify for financial assistance, and also decreased the amount of premium that consumers are responsible to pay before tax credits are available.

• More than 80 percent of Oregonians have been determined to be eligible for financial help through the Marketplace since April 1 when American Rescue Plan provisions took effect.
• Oregonians are receiving an average of $437 per month in premium tax credits to reduce their monthly premium under the expanded eligibility.

The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace offers a quick snapshot of the plans and savings to eligible Oregonians. The tool, available at OregonHealthCare.gov/WindowShop, has been updated to correctly calculate additional savings now available to people shopping through the Marketplace. The window shopping tool will be enhanced again this Fall to allow Oregonians to determine if their preferred providers are covered by each plan. Oregonians will also be able to see if their prescription drugs are covered and what the estimated costs will be for prescriptions on each plan. Enhancements will be live in the tool in October.

Still need health coverage for 2021? You may be able to enroll under a special enrollment period. Start at OregonHealthCare.gov to get to the right application or to find an insurance agent or community partner organization to help complete the application and enroll. Insurance agents and community partners provide local, one-on-one assistance at no charge. This help is available virtually, on the phone, and in person following safety protocols.

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

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Fire Marshal Dan Young is lifting the ban on recreational fires in Clark County effective 12:01 am Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021. 

The county’s ban on land clearing burning remains in place until further notice.

“The recent rain and cooler weather allows the county to safely lift the restriction on recreational fires,” said county Fire Marshal Dan Young.

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

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

For more information, please contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 564.397.2186 or visit the county’s website at www.clark.wa.gov/development/fire/burning.html.

On Monday, September 20, 2021 at approximately 11:28 AM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a single motor vehicle crash on Hwy 164 near milepost 1. 

Preliminary investigation revealed a Nissan Frontier, operated by Michelle Duclos (58) of Jefferson, was northbound when it left the roadway and struck a cement bridge abutment. 

Duclos sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Hwy 164 was closed for approximately 3.5 hours. 

OSP was assisted by Jefferson Fire Department and ODOT. 

Monday, September 20, 2021-Stevenson, WA-Stevenson-Carson School District regularly analyzes student progress using assessments several times throughout the school year to provide data on areas students show strength and areas that need more attention. During the 2019 school year, the district switched to a new platform called iReady which provides even more detailed analysis to improve student learning and performance district-wide. 

Regular assessments give teachers and staff valuable data on how students learn and where they stand in real-time which can be used to tailor additional studies for students who are excelling in an area while also provide support for students who may be struggling. “Studies show that students who struggle can become frustrated with assignments they find too challenging,” said Sarah Dodson, Principal of Carson Elementary. “Conversely, students who already know how to do work can become bored and lose interest.”

Students take diagnostic assessments using iReady three to four times throughout the school year. “iReady works like a ‘choose-your-own-adventure’ story with the program adapting to each student’s unique strengths and areas of growth based on how they answer the questions,” explained Dodson. “The results provide valuable resources for teachers to better adapt how they teach and what they focus on to fit their students’ needs.”

The software helps assess where students learning stands with detailed analysis. “iReady analyzes discrete skills at each grade level which helps us figure out how to group students proficient in certain areas and those who need intervention,” said Dodson. “The platform provides a very user-friendly way to help focus on what kids need in order to learn.”

In addition to the individual needs of each student, iReady provides guidance on what the teaching staff needs to address on broader levels from classroom to grade level to school-wide. “From our data, we learned that our third graders are missing some foundational skills in mathematics thanks to the beginning of the pandemic,” said Dodson. “Accordingly, we developed ways to address these missing skills.” Additionally, by using the platform multiple times throughout the school year, teachers can see trends developing over time. “With more data, our teachers see consistent trends over time which helps them dig deeper and use the results to inform their teaching techniques,” said Dodson. 

By knowing students’ areas of strength and areas that need more focus, teachers can challenge those who are excelling while ensuring they give extra attention to those who may be struggling. “Due to the pandemic and remote learning last year, identifying where students need additional help has become vital,” said Dodson. “Many students have gaps in their learning that need to be addressed to help them progress.”

The teachers find most students enjoy using iReady. “They learn to make goals in their own learning, take control of it, and get excited when they meet and exceed their goals,” said Dodson. “We present academic growth awards, and students cheer each other on for their academic accomplishments.”

Many students enjoy setting the pace of their own learning. “You get to challenge yourself by making your goals bigger and what you learn bigger,” said Jovany Hernandez, a fifth grader. “I really like math and really like to challenge myself by setting further and further goals.”

Chance Welschmeyer, also in fifth grade, agreed with his classmate. “Setting goals helps us be more motivated and when you succeed you receive a certificate showing you reached your goal,” he said. “Also, you can set reasonable goals which helps you improve by letting you reach your goal and then set a higher more difficult one after you’ve succeeded.” 

Students struggling with certain lessons find iReady gives them the additional help they need. “When I was having trouble with math, iReady helped by telling me when I got a problem wrong and showing me,” said fifth grader Reina Fields. Kira Hohlman, a classmate, found iReady helped her develop interests, too. “Before I started using iReady, I really didn’t like reading a lot,” she said. “It helped me get interested in reading because it has really interesting stories that made me want to read even more.”

Studies have shown children learn more effectively when they can take ownership of their learning. “We want to help kids become partners in their learning by setting goals and seeing their own improvement,” said Dodson. “Once they take ownership and pride in their learning, we will see real improvement, and that skill will be on they will use for their whole lives.”

Parents and community members interested in learning more can watch this video on iReady’s website: https://www.curriculumassociates.com/distance-learning/home-assessment-family-support 

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To learn more about how Stevenson-Carson School District teaches our kids and partners with community members and area businesses to create rich and robust learning opportunities, please visit our website at www.scsd303.org. 

On Monday, September 20, 2021 at approximately 7:14 AM, Oregon State Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a four-vehicle crash on Hwy 126W near milepost 37. 

Preliminary investigation revealed a Kenworth log truck, operated by Shane McVay (64) of Eugene, was eastbound when the loaded trailer tipped over. The trailer struck a westbound Toyota Prius, operated by Sarah Susman (25) of Springfield and a Dodge Ram towing a boat, operated by Randall Tokich (70) of Eugene. The Dodge Ram then struck an eastbound Ford Mustang, operated by Jordyn Tippett (20) of Coquille.

Susman sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. McVay and Tippett were transported to Sacred Heart Medical Center at Riverbend with injuries. Tokich had minor injuries. 

Hwy 126W is still currently closed. 

OSP was assisted by Lane County Sheriff’s Office and ODOT. 

Campfires remain prohibited

The Department of State Lands and Oregon Department of Forestry today announced visitors may once more access the Elliott State Forest for most activities, effective immediately.

The announcement lifts wildfire restrictions on overnight camping, use of firearms, and motor vehicle travel on roads. Campfires remain prohibited until further notice.

Visitors should review fire danger levels and any additional use restrictions on the Coos Forest Protective Association website before coming to the Elliott. For the latest status updates on recreation at the Elliott State Forest, visit www.oregon.gov/DSL.

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http://www.oregon.gov/dsl

In partnership with the Washington County Board of Commissioners and the Office of Equity Inclusion and Community Engagement, the Sheriff's Office invites community members who live or work in the Enhanced Sheriff's Patrol District (ESPD) to provide feedback on public safety services. ESPD community members can participate in a digital survey in addition to attending an upcoming virtual listening session. Sheriff Pat Garrett and Undersheriff John Koch will present an overview of the services provided within the ESPD and details on the upcoming 2022 levy. During these listening sessions, ESPD community members are invited to share their opinions on public safety within ESPD.

After both listening sessions are held, the Sheriff's Office will provide the community a summary of each listening session. Additionally, results from the digital survey will be made public after the survey closes.

Listening session dates:

Monday, September 27, 2021, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. (registration link)

Saturday, October 2, 2021, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. (registration link)

The ESPD provides law enforcement services for more than 237,000 community members in the urban areas outside of cities in Washington County, including Bethany, Cedar Mill, Cedar Hills, Aloha, Reedville, Garden Home, Metzger, Rock Creek, Raleigh Hills, Bull Mountain, Bonny Slope, West Slope, Oak Hills, and more. Voters first approved the ESPD in 1987 and all local option levies since then.

The ESPD continues an enhanced level of law enforcement services in the district, even with projected population growth. The ESPD provides funding for the immediate response and investigation of major crimes occurring within the ESPD, including homicide, assault, burglary, and domestic violence. Additionally, ESPD helps fund advanced training in crisis intervention and de-escalation strategies for deputies to use when working with individuals experiencing an emotional or mental health crisis.

Community members can check if they reside or if their place of business is located within ESPD at Who Patrols My Neighborhood

If you would like to send questions to be answered in to be answered during the listening session, please send them to licAffairs@co.washington.or.us">PublicAffairs@co.washington.or.us. For more information, please go to the ESPD homepage.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

Linn County Undersheriff Michelle Duncan reports that on September 16, 2021, at approximately 10:24 a.m., the Linn County Dispatch Center received a call about a trespass in progress on Fox Valley Road in Lyons.  The caller reported David Allen Crouch, 42, from Eugene, was on the property of a family member who he had been making threats to.  While Deputies were responding to the trespass, the caller reported David Crouch left the location and the caller was following him.  After a short time, the caller reported losing sight of David Crouch and returned to the Fox Valley Road address to find the residence was on fire.

As deputies arrived, they found the residence fully engulfed in flames. Fire personnel from 14 surrounding agencies responded to the fire.  The fire quickly spread to the field of a neighboring property but was contained and did not damage any buildings.  One person from the neighboring property was transported for a medical event to the Santiam Hospital in Stayton where they were treated and released.  The fire destroyed the residence at Fox Valley Road which had previously been the Fox Valley School.

At 5:00 p.m. that day, Linn County Detectives were able to locate David Crouch in Eugene where he was taken into custody by the Eugene SWAT team.  David Crouch was transported to the Linn County Jail and lodged on charges of Menacing and Harassment related to threats.  Detectives and the State Fire Marshals continued their investigation through the weekend into the arson.

On September 20, 2021, David Allen Crouch was additionally charged with Arson 1. The investigation is continuing and there may be more charges pending.  Anybody with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Colin Pyle at (541) 967-3950.     

On Monday, September 20, 2021, at 04:14 a.m., Albany Police responded to a report of a subject that had unlawfully entered a residence in the 3200 block of SE Jackson Street, Albany. 

A female stepparent had returned home and noticed the front door to her residence was open.  When she entered her residence, she found the other parent was asleep.  She heard noises from the girls’ bedroom and when she checked on the girls (both under 10 years of age), she encountered a male subject in the room sexually assaulting them.  The stepparent told police the suspect pushed past her and fled the residence.

The suspect was described as a white male adult, approximately 5 feet 7 inches in height, short blonde hair, in his late 20’s to 30’s.  He was described wearing a blue shirt and black sweat-like pants.  The stepparent did not recognize the suspect.  Albany Police were unable to locate the suspect in the area. 

The girls were taken to Samaritan Albany General Hospital and later to the ABC House (child advocacy center).  Albany Police are conducting further investigation into this incident and are continuing to canvass the area speaking with anyone that may have seen or possibly have information about the suspect.

This is an active investigation, and no further information is available.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Albany Police Detectives at 541-917-7686.      

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Gresham, Ore.-Gresham Police are asking for the public's help looking for a missing adult who is non-verbal and autistic. Gresham Police took a missing person report from the family of 20-year-old Brendan Bolsinger who left his home near NE 193rd and NE Hassalo at around 10:45am this morning and has not returned. 

Brendan is described as six feet tall, weighing around 270 pounds, with short brown hair and a beard. He was last seen wearing a gray t-shirt and black pajama pants and he may or may not have shoes on. He frequents video game resale shops and the shopping center near NW Division and NW Civic, and is familiar with public transit.

Gresham Police are asking the public to keep an eye out for Brendan and to call the non-emergency police line if they see him. The best photo family could provide is attached to this release.

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The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in a work session at 5:00 p.m. on September 23, 2021.  
In response to the current health emergency this meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/83712581114?pwd=NjNwZHdGdEUxcmNJalQwZXpGdC9LZz09

Meeting ID: 837 1258 1114 
Passcode: 705870

September 20, 2021

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

Oregon reports 3,359 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 25 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 25 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 3,594 the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today. 

Oregon Health Authority reported 3,359 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 313,161.

The 25 new deaths and 3,349 new cases reported today include data recorded by counties for the 3-day period between Friday, Sept. 17 and Sunday, Sept. 19.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 7,996 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry on Sept. 9. Of this total, 558 were administered on Sept. 9: 262 were initial doses, 273 were second doses and 20 were third doses. The remaining 4,400 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Sept. 19.

The seven-day running average is now 7,996 doses per day.

Oregon has now administered 2,919,890 doses of Pfizer Comirnaty, 1,887,420 doses of Moderna and 210,541 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines.

As of today, 2,707,467 people have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 2,470,161 people have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series.

These data are preliminary and subject to change.

Updated vaccination data are provided on Oregon’s COVID-19 data dashboards and have been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 968, which is one fewer than yesterday. There are 278 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is one more than yesterday.

There are 63 available adult ICU beds out of 651 total (10% availability) and 330 available adult non-ICU beds out of 4,246 (8% availability).

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

Note: Please do not visit an emergency department for COVID-19 testing, unless you require emergency care for your symptoms.

Emergency departments in Oregon are under significant strain responding to the current surge in COVID-19. You can find a test here.  

If you have a medical condition that doesn’t require emergency care, contact your provider. An urgent care center may also help you get the care you need and will save emergency departments from added strain.  

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (26), Benton (74), Clackamas (258), Clatsop (15), Columbia (40), Coos (59), Crook (3), Curry (5), Deschutes (225), Douglas (115), Gilliam (1), Grant (3), Harney (18), Hood River (15), Jackson (226), Jefferson (32), Josephine (127), Klamath (56), Lake (16), Lane (363), Lincoln (35), Linn (171), Malheur (38), Marion (398), Morrow (14), Multnomah (413), Polk (55), Tillamook (19), Umatilla (49), Union (67), Wallowa (7), Wasco (23), Washington (313) and Yamhill (80).

Oregon reports 1,597 confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases on Sept. 17, 996 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases on Sept.18, and 766 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases on Sept.19.

Note: More information about the cases and deaths will be provided in an updated news release.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations  

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

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Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue Engine 26 from the Dollar’s Corner station was dispatched at 23:38 hours (11:38 PM) Sunday night to a report of smoke in the area of NW 199th Street and NW 11th Avenue, south of Ridgefield. Five minutes later, at 23:33 hours, CRESA dispatchers received a report that a house was on fire at 1009 NW 199th Street and added three more fire engines, a ladder truck, and a Battalion Chief to the incident.

CCFR E-26 arrived to find a one-story house fully involved in fire. Most of the roof had already caved in from the fire. E-26 deployed a hose line to knock down the fire and protect a nearby building on the property that was threatened by the fire. As more fire units arrived, firefighters were deployed to put water on the fire in an attempt to bring it under control. CCFR utilized the ladder on Tower-21 (from the Ridgefield station) to spray water on the fire from above. Known as a “master stream device”, the large diameter nozzle at the tip of the aerial ladder allowed firefighters to deliver over 750 gallons of water per minute on the fire and quickly knock the fire down.

Due to the extensive damage to the house caused by the fire before firefighters arrived, personnel conducted “defensive fire operations” and fought the fire from outside the building. The roof, walls, and floors were too unstable for firefighters to enter the building to extinguish the fire.

The house was a total loss from the fire damage. The occupant was not at home at the time of the fire. There were no injuries to fire personnel at the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office.

Firefighters remained on scene until 02:50 hours to mop up hot spots, ensure the fire was fully extinguished, and assist the Fire Investigator. CCFR was assisted on this incident by units from Clark County Fire District 6.

5 fire engines
1 ladder truck (Tower)
4 Chief Officers
1 Fire Investigator
24 total personnel

OREGON CITY – The Clackamas Community College Alexander Gallery will host a virtual group art exhibition curated by gallerist and artist Abe Zucca. The exhibit “Plausible” runs Sept. 20-Dec. 20. 

“Plausible” surveys contemporary work being created by artists living and working in Phoenix, Ariz., and features the work of Steve Caballero, Damian Gomes, Amber Linkey, May-Ling Tang, Shelley Whiting and Abe Zucca. Individually, their practices are inspired by an immediacy influenced by diverse culture; collectively, their work speaks to the colorful landscape of Phoenix’s urban landscape.

There will be an informal artist talk via Zoom on Oct. 14, noon-1 p.m. 

To view the exhibit and learn more, visit www.clackamascommunitycollegeart.com/plausible. For questions, contact Kate Simmons at 503-594-3032 or kates@clackamas.edu. 

-30-

20 de septiembre de 2021 (Salem, OR)-- En respuesta a la urgente necesidad estatal de Oregón de cubrir puestos de atención de salud, el Departamento de Empleo de Oregón y WorkSource Oregon están organizando una feria de empleo de atención médica de 9 a.m. a mediodía, el miércoles 22 de septiembre, en Clackamas Town Center.

Los proveedores de asistencia médica y social de Oregon están contratando a un ritmo sin precedentes. Con alrededor de 15,000 puestos vacantes en el cuidado de la salud, las vacantes se encuentran en el cuidado de la salud directo y otros puestos que apoyan la industria del cuidado de la salud, como el servicio de alimentos, instalaciones y la administración de empresas. 

WorkSource Oregon puede ayudar a conectar empleadores y solicitantes de empleo calificados(as) interesados(as) en el campo de la atención médica y de salud. El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon es una de las agencias asociadas de WorkSource Oregon.

WorkSource Oregon y sus socios ofrecen una variedad de programas y servicios para explorar como: 

• Capacitación en una institución aprobada para ocupaciones en demanda, incluyendo la asistencia con la colegiatura y otros costos asociados, como libros de texto  
• Asistencia con las tarifas para las pruebas de licenciatura o clases preparatorias para las pruebas 
• Colocación en capacitación en el lugar de trabajo o experiencias laborales con empleadores 
• Entrada a programas de aprendizaje u otras oportunidades de “ganar sueldo y aprender”
• Pagos de apoyo que conducirían al éxito en la capacitación (por ejemplo, vales para gasolina) 
• Pagar por el equipo o la ropa necesarios para las oportunidades laborales 

Clackamas Town Center está ubicado en 1200 SE 82nd Ave., Happy Valley, Oregon. Para obtener más información sobre eventos de contratación, programas de asistencia disponibles y servicios para personas que buscan empleo en su área, comuníquese con su centro local de WorkSource Oregon, síganos en LinkedIn o visite  WorkSourceOregon.org. 

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Programa de igualdad de oportunidades: ayudas y servicios auxiliares disponibles a pedido para personas con discapacidades. Contacto: 971-673-6400. Para las personas sordas o con problemas de audición, llame al 711 Telecommunications Relay Services.

Sept. 20, 2021 (Salem, OR)-- In response to Oregon’s urgent statewide need to fill health care positions, the Oregon Employment Department and WorkSource Oregon are hosting a health care job fair from 9 a.m. – noon, Wed., Sept. 22, at Clackamas Town Center.

Oregon’s health care and social assistance providers are hiring at an unprecedented rate. With about 15,000 job vacancies in health care, openings are in direct health care and other positions that support the health care industry, like food service, facilities and business administration. 

WorkSource Oregon can help connect employers and qualified job-seekers interested in the health care field. The Oregon Employment Department is one of WorkSource Oregon’s partner agencies.

WorkSource Oregon and its partners offer an array of programs and services to explore like: 

• Training at an approved institution for in-demand occupations, including assistance with tuition and other associated costs, such as text books
• Fee assistance for licensure testing or preparatory classes for testing
• Placement in on-the-job training or work experiences with employers
• Entrance in to apprenticeship programs or other earn-and-learn opportunities
• Supportive payments that would lead to success in training (e.g. gas vouchers) 
• Paying for necessary equipment or clothing needed for job opportunities

Clackamas Town Center is located at 1200 SE 82nd Ave., Happy Valley, Oregon. For more information on hiring events, available assistance programs, and job-seeker services in your area, contact your local WorkSource Oregon center, follow us on LinkedIn or visit  WorkSourceOregon.org. 

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

For Immediate Release                                                                                     Contact: Courtney Dodds 

September 20, 2021                                                                                                Cell: 971-275-2334

Crandall Group Donates 5-Unit Townhome Complex to UGM for Single Parents 

Beaverton, Ore., - Union Gospel Mission recently received a generous donation from the Crandall Group of a 5-unit townhome complex worth $1.5 Million. The townhomes will provide affordable housing to single parents who are coming out of homelessness, addiction, and abuse. 

A ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the housing complex will take place Thursday, September 23rd at 2 pm at 3400 SW 125^th Ave Beaverton, OR 97005. 

Mark and Angela Crandall and Crandall Group made this generous donation of brand-new housing to help with the growing need for affordable housing in the Beaverton area. Safe and affordable housing is a huge challenge to find for people who are transitioning out of homelessness, recovery, or escaping domestic violence. For single-parent families, the challenge is even greater. 

“Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Crandall Group, Union Gospel Mission has a powerful tool in our toolbox to help single parents and their children transition to a life of self-reliance. These townhomes give them a running start toward independence,” says Jason Christensen UGM Executive Director. 

The vision for this housing complex is to support single parents by not only providing safe, affordable housing but also to provide a supportive community with other families who are working to overcome the challenges they faced due to addiction, abuse, and homelessness. 

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

# # #

September 20, 2021

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

Daphne Peck, 503-580-9792, c.info@dhsoha.state.or.us">herc.info@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

HERC’s Behavioral Health Advisory Panel meets October 18, virtually

What: A public meeting of the Health Evidence Review Commission’s Behavioral Health Advisory Panel

When: October 18, 3:00-5:00 p.m.

Where: Virtual meeting https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1616565370?pwd=NUx6TFF3SXdCaUJLOUtheHUyOXYzUT09 

Meeting ID: 161 656 5370 | Passcode: 162790 
One tap mobile: +16692545252,,1616565370#,,,,162790#

Note: Unscheduled testimony will not be allowed at the meeting. If you think you may want to testify, please complete the survey to sign up at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/herc-public-comment by Thursday, 10/14/2021, noon. If you decide not to testify, you can always decline later. If you need assistance in signing up for public testimony, please call Daphne Peck at 503-503-580-9792.

Written testimony (up to 1,000 words per sender per topic) will be accepted until 10/14/21, noon. Please email C.Info@dhsoha.state.or.us">HERC.Info@dhsoha.state.or.us. 

Items scheduled for discussion could include, but may not be limited to, the following topics: 

• 2022 CPT code changes related to behavioral health or substance use disorder

• Adjustment disorders line update 
• Nightmare disorder 
• Screening for adverse childhood events (ACEs)
• Changes to the Prioritized List related to the OHA SUD waiver

For more information about the meeting, visit the committee’s website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/DSI-HERC/Pages/Meetings-Public.aspx. The meeting agenda and materials will be available one week before the meeting. 

# # #

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

•         Sign language and spoken language interpreters

•         Written materials in other languages

•         Braille

•         Large print

•         Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Daphne Peck at 503-580-9792, 711 TTY or c.info@dhsoha.state.or.us">herc.info@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the event. Written comments are also welcome at c.info@dhsoha.state.or.us">herc.info@dhsoha.state.or.us.

PeaceHealth is now offering monoclonal antibody IV therapy in southwest Washington. This therapy is a promising treatment for patients at risk for severe complications from COVID-19. In southwest Washington, PeaceHealth will initially provide the treatment at PeaceHealth Memorial Urgent Care at 3400 Main Street in Vancouver. Patients must have a provider referral to be eligible for treatment.

“This is the first community monoclonal therapy clinic in all of southwest Washington,” said Shaun Harper, MD, Chief Medical Officer of PeaceHealth Medical Group. “Monoclonal antibody therapy has been proven to reduce hospitalizations in about 70 percent of high-risk, COVID-positive patients. The goal of the treatment is to prevent hospitalizations, reduce viral loads and lessen symptom severity. PeaceHealth is committed to providing access to this potentially life-saving therapy to anyone in our community who could benefit.”

Dr. Harper says the treatment is not a cure and does not provide long-term immunity against COVID-19. “The best protection against COVID-19 continues to be immunization with our safe and effective vaccines."  

Monoclonal antibody therapy received Emergency Use Authorization from the Federal Drug Administration in November of 2020 for certain groups of non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients. A form of immunotherapy traditionally used for patients with cancer and other diseases, monoclonal antibody treatment has shown to be very effective for patients who have mild to moderate symptoms from COVID-19 but a high risk of complications. The treatment continues to be active against the delta variant. Monoclonal antibodies are immune, lab-produced molecules designed to mimic the body’s natural response to infection. With COVID-19, these antibodies are made to recognize and bind to a part of the SARS-Co-V2 virus—the so-called spike protein—that enables it to infect human cells.

PeaceHealth is offering the combo drug therapy REGEN-COV (Carsirivimab/Imdevimab). Patients receive the antibodies through a 20-minute intravenous infusion followed by an hour of observation. 

Monoclonal antibody treatment may be appropriate for patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms or those with known contact to COVID-19 and a high risk of developing serious complications. It may be given to anyone age 12 or over who also meets at least one of the following criteria:

• 65 years of age or older
• Cardiovascular disease, including congenital heart disease, or hypertension
• Chronic lung disease, including COPD, moderate to severe asthma, interstitial lung disease, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension
• BMI above 25 or, if age 12-17, a BMI greater than 85^th percentile for age and gender based on CDC growth charts
• Chronic kidney disease
• Pregnant
• Diabetes
• Sickle cell disease
• Receiving immunosuppressive treatment or have an immunosuppressive disease
• Neurodevelopmental disorders, such as cerebral palsy, or other conditions that confer medical complexity (for example, genetic or metabolic syndromes and severe congenital abnormalities)
• Medical-related technological dependence, such as tracheostomy, gastrostomy or positive pressure ventilation

Click to view the Emergency Use Authorization Fact Sheet for Patients which provides additional information about monoclonal antibody therapy. Any additional questions should be directed to one’s primary care physician.

About PeaceHealth: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a not-for-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Columbia Network and Alaska. PeaceHealth has more than 15,000 caregivers, a group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org.

DISCOUNTED OR FREE PHONE OR HIGH-SPEED INTERNET SERVICE FOR ELIGIBLE OREGONIANS
National Lifeline Awareness Week runs September 20-24, 2021

SALEM, Ore. – In celebration of National Lifeline Awareness Week, the Oregon Public Utility Commission is reminding Oregonians about Lifeline, a federal and state government program that provides discounted or free phone or high speed internet service to qualifying low-income households. 

Oregon Lifeline is currently offering a monthly discount up to $15.25 for phone service or $19.25 per month for high-speed internet service through participating service providers.  Lifeline also offers free wireless voice minutes and data service from Access Wireless, Assurance Wireless, or enTouch Wireless. Oregon residents on federally-recognized Tribal lands may qualify for an additional $25 discount each month.

“We want to encourage all eligible Oregonians to take advantage of Oregon Lifeline services,” said Megan Decker, PUC Chair. “This program helps eligible residents stay connected and provides access to local emergency services, healthcare, jobs, education, and other important resources.”

Oregonians receiving benefits from select public assistance programs such as Medicaid or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) may qualify for Oregon Lifeline, which is limited to one person per household for either the discounted or free service.

For additional information about the Oregon Lifeline program, call 1-800-848-4442, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., or view details online at: https://www.oregon.gov/puc/Pages/Oregon-Lifeline.aspx. 

# # #

The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric, natural gas and telephone utilities, as well as select water companies.  The PUC mission is to ensure Oregon utility customers have access to safe, reliable, and high quality utility services at just and reasonable rates, which is accomplished through thorough analysis and independent decision-making conducted in an open and fair process.

On September 17, 2021 at about 11:13 pm, Yamhill County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a weapons complaint in the 400 block of N. Jackson Street in the City of Lafayette. Several 911 callers reported hearing gunshots and yelling.  Yamhill Communications received an additional call from an individual indicating they shot another person.

Deputies responded to the scene and located an adult male, age 35, suffering from a gunshot wound. Deputies detained a person on scene who was identified as the shooter.  The shooting victim was transported by ground ambulance to a local hospital for treatment.  Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit (SIU) detectives responded to assist with the investigation.  After search warrants were obtained and served and all the evidence had been collected, Austin James Place, age 27, of Lafayette, was arrested and lodged in the Yamhill County Correctional Facility on charges of Assault in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Recklessly Endangering Another Person.  The bail amount at the time of booking is $162,500.

Please see attached press release.

Salem, OR - The Oregon Department of Administrative Services last week published the annual maximum rent increase allowed by statute for calendar year 2022. The DAS Office of Economic Analysis has calculated the maximum percentage as 9.9%.

Following the passage of SB 608 in the 2019 legislative session, Oregon law requires DAS to calculate and post to its website, by September 30 of each year, the maximum annual rent increase percentage allowed by statute for the following calendar year. Per statute, OEA calculates this amount as 7% plus the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, West Region (All Items), as most recently published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The allowable rent increase percentage for the 2022 calendar year is 9.9%. DAS will calculate and post the percentage for the 2023 calendar year by Sept. 30, 2022.

Information about the maximum annual rent increase percentage, as well as the provisions of ORS 90.323 and 90.600 (statutes governing rent increases), can be found on the OEA website.  

For information on the new law, please see the full text of SB 608 at the link below. DAS does not provide legal advice regarding other provisions of SB 608.

Links: 

• Full text of SB 608: http://olis.leg.state.or.us/liz/2019R1/Downloads/MeasureDocument/SB608/Enrolled
• OEA website: https://www.oregon.gov/das/OEA/Pages/Rent-stabilization.aspx   

September 20, 2021

Contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@state.or.us

Nurse Staffing Advisory Board’s HB 3016 Rules Committee meets Sept. 30

What: The Nurse Staffing Advisory Board’s HB 3016 Rules Committee is holding its first meeting.

Agenda:

• Welcome, housekeeping, introductions.
• Review meeting agenda.
• HB 3016 Rules Committee overview and scope.
• Administrative rule review.
• Summarize action items and next steps.

The agenda will be available on www.healthoregon.org/nursestaffing

When: Sept. 30, 3-4:30 p.m.

Where:

ZoomGov Meeting, Dial : +1 669 254 5252 (PST)

Meeting ID: 161 695 4448

Passcode: 266666

Background: The Nurse Staffing Advisory Board advises the Oregon Health Authority on the administration of Oregon’s nurse staffing laws; identifies trends, opportunities and concerns related to nurse staffing; makes recommendations to the Oregon Health Authority based on those trends, opportunities and concerns; and reviews the enforcement powers and processes under Oregon’s nurse staffing laws.

Program contact: Kimberly Voelker

ox.nursestaffing@state.or.us">Mailbox.nursestaffing@state.or.us

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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 Kimberly Voelker, MPH, at 971-803-0914, 711 TTY or erly.n.voelker@dhsoha.state.or.us">kimberly.n.voelker@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

On September 2, 2021, Sr. Trooper Baimbridge responded to a report of a dead bull elk in the 2800 Block of Mehl Creek Road, Elkton, Oregon.  The bull had the head removed and the meat removed.  The elk had been shot by a rifle during the bow season.  The investigation revealed that Jase Billman (20) shot the bull from the roadway with a .270 caliber rifle then enlisted the help of 3 friends and family to pack it out.  Jase was issued a citation for Unlawful Take of Bull Elk and his rifle was seized along with the antlers and meat from the bull. The meat was able to be salvaged. Two other individuals were issued citations for Aiding in a Wildlife Offense.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677) TIP E-Mail: TIP@state.or.us 

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

Preference Point Rewards:

5 Points-Bighorn Sheep

5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points-Moose

5 Points-Wolf

4 Points-Elk

4 Points-Deer

4 Points-Antelope

4 Points-Bear

4 Points-Cougar

Cash Rewards:

$1,000 Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat and Moose 

$500 Elk, Deer and Antelope 

$300 Bear, Cougar and Wolf 

$300 Habitat Destruction

$200 Illegally Obtaining License/Tag(s)

$200 Unlawful Lend/Borrow Big Game Tags(s) 

$100 Upland Birds and Waterfowl 

$100 Furbearers 

$100 Game Fish and Shellfish

On 9/19/2021 at approximately 7:35 PM, Clark County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a 911 call of a report of someone being shot in the leg at 13725 NE 72^nd Avenue.

It was discovered, John R Little III (7/7/74) had been shot in the leg and had left in a vehicle which was stopped by deputies a short distance from the residence by patrol deputies. Deputies discovered the occupants of the vehicle where all involved in the shooting incident at the residence.

Clark County Sheriff’s Office Majors Crimes Unit responded to investigate. The investigation revealed Scott E Green (11/24/1991) had shot John Little in the leg during a domestic violence incident involving a female domestic violence victim.  The investigation revealed she was not struck by gunfire, but did sustain injuries from a physical assault.

John Little was transported to an area hospital with a non-life-threatening injury. He was later released by the hospital and booked for Assault-IV Domestic Violence 9A.36.041, for assaulting the female. 

Scott Green was arrested and booked for Assault-I, RCW 9A.36.011, for an assault with a firearm.

There is no danger to the public related to this investigation and there are no outstanding suspects.

Prepared by MCU Sgt. J. Granneman

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On the afternoon of 09/19/21, WVCC dispatch broadcasted an Attempt to Locate (ATL) for a stolen vehicle which was stolen within the past hour from Lincoln City – a gray 2003 Ford F-250. The vehicle was reported to have a white laundry machine in the bed. 

At 2:53 PM, Sgt. Dunteman located the vehicle driving southbound on Highway 101 near Best Western Agate Beach in Newport. Sgt. Dunteman radioed nearby Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and Newport Police Department units and did not attempt a traffic stop at that time. Deputies attempted to stop the vehicle as it turned onto NW 25^th St. and into Walmart. The aforementioned vehicle did a loop through the Walmart parking lot and led deputies and officers on a pursuit southbound through Newport.

At the time, deputies did not realize there was another stolen vehicle caravanning with the aforementioned vehicle. The additional vehicle being pursued was a dark blue 2000 Ford F-250 reported stolen out of Salem on 09/18/21. 

Deputy Tugwell set Stop Sticks at the intersection of Highway 101 / Olive St in Newport. The dark blue F-250, which was the primary eluding vehicle, hit the Stop Sticks which disabled the vehicle shortly thereafter. The gray F-250 avoided the Stop Sticks and both vehicles continued South. Several Newport Police Department Officers and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were involved in the pursuit. 

Both stolen vehicles crossed the Yaquina Bay Bridge at high rates of speed. NPD Officers came upon the dark blue F-250 stopped and abandoned in the middle of S Coast Highway adjacent to Newport Toyota. The dark blue F-250 sustained front driver side tire damage due to Stop Stick deployment, rendering it inoperable. The driver of the disabled dark blue F-250 was picked up by the gray F-250 which continued South on S Coast Highway at speeds ranging from 80-100 MPH. 

NPD officers who remained on scene with the dark blue F-250 advised there was a copious amount of ammunition inside and warned pursuing units that the suspect(s) may be armed. The pursuit continued South on Highway 101 where NPD units terminated the pursuit due to excessive speed and reckless driving into oncoming traffic. At that time, there was moderate to heavy traffic flowing both directions through South Beach. 

After NPD terminated their involvement in the pursuit, LCSO assumed the pursuit and continued the pursuit southbound through South Beach. The gray F-250 was passing southbound traffic at approximately 80-100 MPH in the oncoming lanes causing both directions of traffic to take evasive maneuvers to avoid a crash. 

After leaving Newport (South Beach) city limits, traffic lightened up and speeds remained at approximately 90-100 MPH as the pursuit continued into the Ona Beach Curves proximate to N Beaver Creek Rd in Seal Rock. 

Through Seal Rock, the gray F-250’s reckless driving became even more so reckless, as the vehicle began swerving side to side across both southbound and northbound lanes of travel. 

LCSO elected to terminate the pursuit after passing NW Spruce Pointe Lane, North of Beachside State Park in Seal Rock, in hopes it would reduce the threat of serious injury or death to the motoring public due to the driver’s recklessness. In total, the pursuit lead Lincoln County law enforcement on a 13.2 mile pursuit. It was apparent that the driver was exercising negligence and recklessness with an extreme indifference to human life of himself, his passengers, and the motoring public, which was likely exacerbated with law enforcement continuing to pursue. Deputies lost sight of the gray F-250 after it passed Beachside State Park. 

Law enforcement observed there were three suspects in the gray F-250 including the driver from the disabled dark blue F-250. None of the suspects were identified and all three are currently outstanding.

Deputies were notified by citizens in the Waldport area that the gray F-250 continued driving recklessly and at high speeds through Waldport and onto Highway 34 eastbound. Deputies patrolled Highway 34 and spoke with numerous motorists and pedestrians who saw the gray F-250 speeding eastbound. 

At 3:50 PM, Sgt. Dunteman located the stolen gray F-250 parked and unoccupied at Don Lindley Park - 6977 E Alsea Highway. A few fishermen saw 3 occupants flee on foot into the park. By that time, there was a 30-minute delay according to the fishermen. 

The owners of the gray F-250 were contacted and reunited with their vehicle, which was thankfully still drivable, albeit with considerably less fuel in the tank. The owners of the dark blue F-250 were contacted as well. 

Refer to the following case numbers;

LCSO Case # 21S-01877

NPD Case # 21N-02109

LCPD Case # 21-1530 

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Respectfully Submitted, 

Sgt. Jack Dunteman 

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office 

Patrol Sergeant

This morning the body of Donald Sheldon was found approximately 30-yards away from where his vehicle was located on Hwy. 26 near mile marker 32. Mr. Sheldon was found down a steep ravine in rough terrain. At this time, we do not suspect foul play. 

We want to thank the media, the public, along with the Tillamook County Sheriff's Office, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, the Oregon State Police, and the Washington County Sheriff's Office for their assistance on this case. Without the help and support from those mentioned, this would not have been possible. 

(September 19, 2021) - Heavy rains led to a combined sewage overflow Sunday from maintenance hole at N Burlington and Edison to the Willamette River in Portland.

The overflow began at approximately 1:30 a.m and stopped at 1:40 a.m. The volume of the overflow is unknown at this time.

As a precaution, people should avoid contact with the Willamette River in that area for at least 48 hours after the discharge has ended because of the possibility of increased bacteria in the water. 

A combined sewer overflow (CSO) is about 80 percent stormwater and 20 percent sewage. CSOs are rare and can occur during periods of heavy rain or snowfall. Since completing the Big Pipe project in 2011, a 20-year $1.4 billion program to reduce overflows, the number of CSOs have dropped by 94 percent to the Willamette River and 99 percent to the Columbia Slough. 

The Big Pipe project constructed a series of improvements, from disconnecting downspouts on homes to allow rainwater to be absorbed naturally in the ground to the construction of big pipes on both sides of the river and along the slough to store and convey large quantities of flows to the Columbia Boulevard Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Before the project, CSOs occurred to the Willamette River from multiple outfalls an average of 50 times a year, with some instances lasting days. Today, overflows occur an average of four times per winter season, and once every three summers. 

This is the first CSO since January 2021.

Find out more information about CSO events, what they are and why they occur at https://www.portland.gov/bes/about-csos.

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. Visit www.portland.gov/bes and follow us on Twitter for news @besportland.

With the community's help and the media, we have located Donald Sheldon's van on Hwy. 26 at mile marker 32 near the viewpoint.  It appears Donald's van ran out of gas, and he may have been walking along Hwy. 26 looking for help and gas.  

If anyone saw Donald walking along Hwy. 26, at the viewpoint, or even gave him a ride, please contact dispatch at 503-629-0111 related to HPD case # 21-15741.