BANKS, Ore. - The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will meet to discuss the proposed Salmonberry Trail corridor 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Aug. 2 at the Banks Fire District, 13430 NW Main St., Banks. The meeting is open to the public.

On the agenda: an update about the development of a new nonprofit dedicated to the development of the Salmonberry Trail, the board’s adoption of the completed strategic plan, and a discussion of next steps for implementing the plan.

The proposed Salmonberry Trail is an 84-mile corridor that follows the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway and terminates in Banks. The proposed route connects eight cities and two counties, passing by the Oregon coastline, fisheries, farmland and the Oregon Coast Range.

STIA was established to promote and facilitate coordinated direction and guidance in the planning, development and maintenance of the multi-use trail.

For more information contact Dennis Wiley, Salmonberry Trail project manager, at 503-986-0723 or dennis.wiley@oregon.gov. Individuals who need special accommodations to attend the meeting should contact Dennis Wiley at least three days in advance of the meeting.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

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

Northwest Association for Blind Athletes Hosts Camp Spark for Children with Visual Impairments in Oregon

Vancouver, Washington—July 22, 2019—Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is excited to announce that as of today, July 22, 2019, NWABA has officially started Camp Spark in Oregon. Camp Spark offers a variety of sports and recreational activities including goalball (a sport specifically developed for individuals with visual impairments), 5-a-side soccer, judo, tandem cycling, kayaking, track & field, and numerous others.

Camp Spark in Oregon will be hosted at the Linfield College campus in McMinnville, OR from July 21 to July 26, 2019. Oregon’s camp will impact 36 campers from across the state ages 8-15 years old. This is the fourth year that NWABA has offered summer camp for children with visual impairments across the state. This one-week summer session provides 1:2 sport instruction for each camper.  Children vary in socioeconomic status, ethnic background, and level of skills and abilities.  

"Our Board of Directors is extremely excited to offer these truly transformational programs to children and youth with visual impairments. Camp reaches far beyond participating in sports, and acts as a catalyst to help campers gain the confidence, self-esteem, friendships, and independence they need to achieve success in all areas of life.” said Founder, President/CEO, Billy Henry.

Camp Spark 's Oregon session is partially funded by the Oregon Blind and Visually Impaired Student Fund, additional support is critically needed to deliver a successful camp. Donations to support Camp Spark are accepted by mailing a check to PO BOX 65265, Vancouver, WA, 98665 or making an online gift at www.nwaba.org. Please indicate that your donation is to support camp programs. For more information on Northwest Association for Blind Athletes, please contact Billy Henry at 1-360-718-2826, or visit www.nwaba.org

About NWABA:
The mission of Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. A group of students who were visually impaired formed the association in 2007 to ensure that people who are blind were participating in sports and physical activity. Today, NWABA is a rapidly expanding 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides more than 1,500 children, youth, adults and military veterans with visual impairments tailored programming which improves self-confidence and self-esteem, promotes independence, creates an inclusive community of supporters, and builds the skills necessary to succeed in all areas of life including school and employment.

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

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Colette S. Peters, Director of the Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC), announced the appointment of Nichole Brown as the Superintendent of Columbia River Correctional Institution (CRCI) in Portland and the South Fork Forest Camp in Tillamook. The appointment is effective August 1, 2019.

“When asked to reflect on what it means to be the first African American woman to run a prison in the State of Oregon, I must acknowledge law enforcement and the African American community, traditionally, have not always had a symbiotic relationship. My decision to apply for the position was easy, as I know the leadership of the agency has made a commitment to diversify the workforce with highly trained staff and to normalize and humanize the corrections setting. I bring a diverse perspective – not only in ethnicity and culture – but diversity of opinion, thoughts, and abilities. I will role model to staff and to adults in custody that our diversity can be our greatest strength as we share and grow with one another as corrections professionals,” said Ms. Brown.

Brown started her career in 1997 at the Powder River Correctional Facility in the Inmate Work Programs section. From 2004 to 2012, she served as the Workforce Development Administrator responsible for Education Training and Alcohol and Drug Treatment programs. Brown currently oversees the Programs and Social Support Services Unit within the Correctional Services Division which includes Inmate Services, Volunteer Services, Victim Services, and Family Advocacy. Brown grew up and attended school in Northeast Portland. She earned her degree in Planning Public Policy and Management from the University of Oregon in Eugene.

Director Peters stated, “Nichole is a strong-minded thoughtful leader with heart and passion for our work, and I am confident she will serve our agency well in her new role. She brings a love of people, meaningful community partnerships, and a fundamental belief that people can change when given the opportunity and motivation. As the first woman Director of ODOC, I am proud to have the first African American woman selected as Superintendent on my watch.” 

CRCI is a minimum-security prison that houses approximately 595 adults in custody who are within four years of release. Located in the largest metropolitan area of the state, this facility is focused on cognitive programming, work programs, and preparing for return to the community. CRCI is home to a 50-bed cognitive restructuring Alternative Incarceration Program (AIP). Individuals who successfully complete this 180-day in-prison program are released to the community for a 90-day transitional leave period. Individuals who successfully complete the transitional leave period are granted a reduction in their sentence and move to post-prison supervision. CRCI is located on a 26-acre site in northeast Portland and officially in opened in September 1990.

SFFC is minimum-security work camp that houses approximately 200 adults in custody who are within four years of release. Part of SFFC's mission is to supply a ready work force to combat forest or wild fires throughout the state. Crews provide critical support for statewide fire operations, recreation, and reforestation; as well as provide support for special projects such as sign making, metal fabrication, and tool or equipment repair. SFFC was established in 1951 and is a satellite facility to CRCI and managed jointly with the Oregon Department of Forestry. It is located approximately 28 miles east of Tillamook, just off Highway 6 along the Wilson River in the Tillamook Forest.

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SALEM, OR – Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is pleased to announce that the Oregon Homeownership Stabilization Initiative (OHSI) is re-opening a mortgage payment assistance program for Oregon homeowners receiving unemployment benefits.

The Mortgage Payment Assistance Unemployment program (MPAU) is designed to help unemployed homeowners avoid foreclosure while they seek new employment. Eligible homeowners may receive assistance to cover up to 12 months of mortgage payments, up to a maximum of $20,000.

Basic eligibility requirements of the MPAU program include:

• Applicant is receiving unemployment insurance at the time of application
• Applicant does not own other residential property
• Applicant is not in active bankruptcy

Applications will be accepted until September 30, 2019. Interested homeowners should visit www.oregonhomeownerhelp.org for information on the application process including an eligibility checklist, application document checklist, and FAQs.

To date, OHSI programs have provided over $265 million to help over 15,000 Oregon homeowners stay in their homes. OHSI offers several other programs to help struggling homeowners including:

• Help for those on a fixed income struggling to pay their mortgage
• Help with property tax payments, including those with a reverse mortgage
• Help with past due mortgage payments for those who can demonstrate they can pay their mortgage post-assistance.

###

On Sunday, July 21, 2019 at approximately 4:48 P.M.. Oregon State Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two vehicle crash on Hwy 224 near milepost 15.

Preliminary investigation revealed a Buick Lesabre, operated by Violet Sullivan (88) of Estacada, was traveling westbound on Hwy 224 and turned left in front of a Harley Davidson Motorcycle operated by Russell Nelson (65) of Portland.

Nelson was flown by Life Flight to OHSU where he was pronounced deceased.

OSP was assisted by Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, Clackamas County Fire, and ODOT.

At 9:40 p.m., officers responded to a crash involving a pedestrian at Southeast 10th Avenue and Southeast Walnut Street. A man was struck in the intersection by a dark-colored, newer-model sedan. The sedan did not stop, and it was last seen driving south on Southeast 10th Avenue. The man was transported to the hospital by ambulance for treatment of serious injuries.

Southeast 10th Avenue is closed between Southeast Oak Street and Southeast Maple Street. Southeast Walnut Street is closed between Southeast 9th Avenue and Southeast 11th Avenue. 

Investigation by the Washington County Crash Analysis Reconstruction Team is ongoing. The name of the pedestrian is not released at this time.

The sedan may be missing a side-view mirror. Anyone with information is asked to call Hillsboro Police at 503-629-0111.

On Sunday, July 21, 2019, at approximately 11:33 AM, Oregon State Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a single vehicle crash, involving a motorcycle, on Hwy 97 near mile post 15, approximately two miles north of Moro, Oregon. 

Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2005 Kawasaki motorcycle, operated by Vanesa Gunther (55) of Junction City, Oregon, was traveling southbound on Hwy 97 when a wild turkey collided with her after flying into a northbound commercial motor vehicle. After being struck by the turkey, Gunther traveled across the northbound lane and collided with a guardrail.

Gunther sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The northbound lane of Hwy 97 was closed for several hours following the crash.

OSP was assisted by the Sherman County Sheriff's Office, North Sherman Fire, Moro Fire and Rescue, and ODOT. 

Cowlitz County, WA – Firefighters from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue and Longview Fire responded to a structure fire in the 6300 block of Willow Grove Rd. Sunday morning just before 3am.  Initial fire crews reported the two story structure heavily involved with fire on their arrival and attacked the fire from the exterior.  A total of 6 people were able to vacate the bed and breakfast and were accounted for on scene.  One minor injury to a foot was reported; the patient refused transport to the hospital.  The fire was under control just after 4am.  Three engines, three water tenders, and a chief officer responded to the incident; 2 water tenders from fire district 5 and Wahkiakum County were canceled in route.  Cowlitz county public utility district and sheriff deputies also responded to the call.  The house is considered a total loss, according to fire officials.  The cause of the fire is under investigation.  

 

On Saturday, July 20, 2019, at 9:36 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a hit and run crash on Highway 99 near SW Chapman Road just south of Sherwood.  Deputies arrived to find a 2003 Mazda 3 on its side with a man and three kids still inside.  About two miles down the road, deputies found a 1993 Ford Ranger in the ditch with no one around.

Deputies learned the Ford was waiting to turn from a crossover in the middle of Highway 99 and pulled out in front of the Mazda which was driving south.  The Ford then hit the Mazda which forced it off the road where it rolled over.  All four people in the Mazda were taken to an area hospital for treatment but none of their injuries were life-threatening.

The man driving the Ford crashed into the ditch two miles away and witnesses said the driver and his passenger were almost immediately picked up by another vehicle which fled the scene.  Deputies are investigating DUII as a factor for the crash.

The inter-agency Washington County Crash Analysis Reconstruction Team (CART) responded to the scene to help with the investigation.  Deputies are asking anyone with information about the people who were in the Ford to call non-emergency Dispatch at 503-629-0111.

On Sunday, July 21, 2019, at 5:55 a.m., one of the bait packages was stolen and deputies began receiving real-time tracking updates.  Deputies followed the signal to a house in the 20700 block of SW Rosa Road in Aloha.

Deputies contacted 34-year-old Sheena Watson of Beaverton in the yard.  She said she had been out riding her bike but was barefoot.  Ms. Watson then pulled out the tracking device and said she found it on the sidewalk, before admitting the rest of the stolen bait package was in the backyard and that she cut it open with scissors.

Deputies arrested Ms. Watson for Mail Theft and Theft in the Second Degree.  She was also wanted on a felony warrant from the Oregon State Parole Board for a prior burglary conviction.

Multiple additional decoy packages remain active in Washington County.

ORIGINAL MEDIA RELEASE:

On Tuesday, July 16, 2019, Deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office will begin targeting thieves who steal packages delivered to porches across the county.

Working closely with the United States Postal Inspection Service, detectives with the Property Crimes Unit will be setting up a bait package mission in hopes of catching package thieves in the act.

These decoy packages are equipped with electronic tracking devices that allow deputies to track them after they’ve been stolen.

Detectives use package theft data provided by the U.S. Postal Service to determine which areas have the biggest problems with “porch pirates.”

This mission coincides with special deals being offered by many of the country’s largest online retailers this week.

Detectives from the Property Crimes Unit work proactively throughout the year to combat the problem of package thefts in our community. For the last four years, detectives have placed numerous bait packages throughout Washington County to deter potential package thieves.

There are plenty of great places in Oregon to celebrate National Ice Cream Day on Sunday, July 21. Starting today, 10 of those places became the first stops on the new Oregon Ice Cream Trail.

These are quintessential destinations for acquiring frozen happiness (aka ice cream) by the cone or cup. The list was curated by the Oregon Dairy and Nutrition Council, and it includes:

1. Salt & Straw (2035 NE Alberta St., Portland) – Characterized by inventive flavors, this small batch shop began in 2011 as a food cart not far from this first brick and mortar location.
2. Ruby Jewel (3713 N Mississippi Ave., Portland) – Known for distinctly original, artisanal ice cream sandwiches, since 2004. This location was their first shop, which opened in 2010.
3. Fifty Licks (2021 SE Clinton St #101, Portland) – You may have seen the truck around town. The owner loves food science and making ice cream from scratch with local ingredients.
4. Cloud City Ice Cream (4525 SE Woodstock Blvd, Portland) – Flavors based on family recipes, made on the premise that ice cream makes an ordinary day into something special.
5. Tillamook Cheese Factory Visitors Center (4165 Highway 101 North, Tillamook) – With more than 1.3 million guests annually, this is consistently one of Oregon’s top tourist attractions, and many go straight for the ice cream.
6. Serendipity (502 NE Third Street, McMinnville) – This shop gives job experience and training for adults with developmental disabilities, in addition to great ice cream and a player piano.
7. Prince Pückler’s (1605 E 19th Ave, Eugene) – With more than 40 flavors, this gourmet ice cream has been made with quality local ingredients since 1975.
8. K & R Drive Inn, (201 John Long Rd, Oakland) – Located just off of I-5 at Rice Hill, and a favorite pit stop for Umpqua ice cream on road trips since 1970.
9. Goody’s (57100 Beaver Dr., Sunriver) – The ice cream counter at this store continues to be a visitors’ favorite during busy vacation times and a locals tradition year round.
10. Sno Cap (1053 NW 6th St., Redmond) – Originally Peden’s Ice Cream back in the 60s, Sno Cap is an institution and a locals favorite serving Eberhard’s Ice Cream.

Knowing everybody has their own favorite shops, brands and flavors, the trail is being crowdsourced to include additional stops. For the rest of the month, you can vote and comment on odncouncil.org and social media accounts with the hashtag #OregonIceCreamTrail.

“Oregon is already well-known for wines, microbrews and gourmet doughnuts, but we think it’s high time that Oregon is put on the map for its great ice cream,” said Josh Thomas, Senior Director of Communications for the Oregon Dairy and Nutrition Council. “This trail will showcase some of the best ice cream you’ll find anywhere in the world.”

# # #

A failed bearing in a baler sparked a two-alarm grass fire outside of Lebanon on Saturday evening. The Lebanon Fire District was dispatched for a car fire near Highway 34 and Red Bridge Road at 5:35 p.m. While en route to the scene the Lebanon Battalion Chief could see that the fire was not on the highway but deep in a farmer’s field and he immediately upgraded the call to a first alarm to bring more firefighting resources from all Lebanon stations.

Upon arrival crews found a large tractor and baler surrounded by fire in a wind rowed field. The fire was approximately half an acre in size, but gusty winds and a large amount of unburned fuel around the fire led to the Incident Commander to call for a second alarm to bring additional resources from neighboring departments. Firefighters from Tangent, Albany, and Scio responded to the scene while mutual aid crews from Scio, Brownsville, and Sweet Home responded to Lebanon to cover the district.

Crews quickly worked to attack the flanks of the fire as it moved south towards Highway 20, pushed by 10-15 mph winds. Once the fire was flanked, the head of the fire was extinguished and an extensive mop-up and overhaul operation began. Fire crews limited the damage to just 1.2 acres of burn and were able to protect the tractor from any major damage. The baler received more fire damage and will likely need to be rebuilt. The property is owned by Mike Hayes and Chris Horton was farming it with his crews and equipment. Horton estimated the combined value of the tractor and baler at $270,000.

Crews were on scene for close to 3 hours mopping up hot spots and ensuring that the baler fire was completely extinguished. There were no civilian injuries and one firefighter suffered mild heat exhaustion but was treated on scene and returned to duty.

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For HD Video of this and other LFD incidents, please subscribe to the Lebanon Fire District YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjTxDBuPbD3DPAybCkCgEvg

For HD photos of this and other LFD incidents, please follow the Lebanon Fire District Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LebanonFireDistrict/?ref=bookmarks

For updates on large scale incidents within the Lebanon Fire District, follow us on Twitter: @LebanonFD

On Saturday, July 20, 2019, just before 1:30 a.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of an assault with a weapon on a TriMet bus near the 18900 block of SW Tualatin Valley Highway in Aloha.  The TriMet bus driver reported that one passenger had attacked another passenger on the bus with a tire iron and then fled on foot.

Deputies quickly found the suspect, 47-year-old Michael Henry Jr. of Hillsboro, across the road on SW Shaw Street and arrested him.  Deputies also found the tire iron on the ground near where Mr. Henry Jr. had fled.  The victim, a 27-year-old man from Beaverton, had been hit on the head and neck and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.  Deputies are still investigating the reason for the attack, but the victim and suspect know each other and this was not a random assault.

Mr. Henry Jr. was lodged into jail on charges of Assault in the Second Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Interferring with Public Transportation, and Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree.  His bail is set at $250,000.

Deputies also learned that another bus passenger, 53-year-old Richard Campbell Jr. of Portland, was wanted on a Multnomah County warrant for Trespassing in the Second Degree.  Mr. Campbell Jr. was arrested and lodged into jail for his warrant.

At approximately 7:35 pm, assault suspect Jonathan Jones was arrested on NE 160th Ave. north of Burnside St. by Portland Police. Gresham Police would like to thank the public for their assistance.

Update

The deceased has been identified as 19 year old female Bend area resident Lauren Cantrell. 

###

On Thursday July 18, 2019 at about 7:30 p.m., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two vehicle head on fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 197 in Klamath County. 

The investigation revealed that a white 2005 Jeep Liberty was traveling southbound on Highway 97 and for unknown reasons, drifted onto the southbound shoulder.  The operator of the Jeep reportedly overcorrected, and spun into the oncoming lane colliding with a 2014 grey Dodge Ram truck that was towing a travel trailer.  The 2014 Dodge Ram was operated by 57 year old Janesville, California resident, Clarence Noblet and his passenger and spouse, identified as 55 year old Laraine Noblet.

The driver of the Jeep Liberty was pronounced deceased at the scene as a result of the crash.  Identity of the deceased will be withheld until a notification to the family can be conducted.  Clarence and Laraine Noblet were transported to a Bend area hospital where they were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Distracted driving and speed are believed to be factors in this crash. 

Highway 97 was closed for approximately 4 hours as a result and OSP was assisted at the scene by ODOT, Chemult Rural Fire District and Crescent Fire District.

Salem, Ore. – Opportunities for all ages to learn, play, and connect will be popping up throughout Downtown Salem from Mon., Jul. 22 through Thurs., Sept. 19. This free program, Pop-Up Downtown!, is open to the public and provides a wide variety of summer classes for all ages and abilities.

Featured pop-up classes include arts and crafts, jewelry making, music, public transportation, Spanish, fitness, floral arranging, and cooking. A full schedule of available classes, locations, and times is available online. Class locations include the Wednesday Farmers Market, the Alley Plaza behind JC Penney, Riverfront Park Amphitheater, and Pringle Hall.

A free shuttle from Center 50+ to Downtown Salem is available on Wednesday mornings. The bus departs at 10:30 a.m. and returns at 1:30 p.m.

The Pop-Up Downtown! program is free to the community as a result of AARP Community Challenge grant funding. The Center 50+/City of Salem was one of three communities awarded the AARP grant in Oregon. The grant is part of an AARP initiative to help communities become great places to live for residents of all ages. In 2019, the AARP Community Challenge grant program distributed nearly $1.6 million among 159 grant winners.

Additional information about the Pop-Up Downtown! free summer classes is available by calling 503-588-6303 or emailing Connect50plus@cityofsalem.net.

# # #

The Grotto’s annual Blessing of the Animals will be held Sunday, July 21, at 2 p.m. in The Grotto Plaza.

People and pets of all faiths are welcome to this nondenominational service held in The Grotto Plaza.

This is a free event.

(Salem, Ore.) — Public notice is provided by the Department of Human Services, Office of Developmental Disabilities Services, on a rate change.

The Oregon Legislature provided the Office of Developmental Disabilities Services (ODDS) with $30 million General Fund (approximately $92 million total funds) for provider rate increases. The funding is to bring direct support professionals’ wages as close as possible to $15 per hour by the end of the 2019-21 biennium and implement new rate models over the course of the biennium.

Per legislative direction in Senate Bill 5026 and the related Budget Note ODDS will implement the following actions related to provider rates:

• Effective August 1, 2019, ODDS will implement a 4 percent increase in provider rates. This increase will total approximately $6.4 million General Fund (about $19.5 million total fund). This rate increase will go to: Adult 24-Hour Residential Services; Agency Attendant Care; Day Support Activities, Community and Facility; Employment Path, Community and Facility; Small Group Employment and Supported Living.
• Effective September 1, 2019, approximately $4.6 million General Fund (approximately $15.5 million total fund) will go to implement new rate models for Children’s Residential Services (group homes).

Details about the change are available at http://www.dhs.state.or.us/spd/tools/dd/cm/ODDS-Expenditure-Guidelines.pdf

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Update

Ms. Holden has been located and is safe. 

On 7-19-2019 at approximately 10:25AM, Vancouver Police officers were dispatched to a welfare check in the 1400 block of Officers Row, Vancouver, WA.

Further investigation revealed that an individual called a relative to report that seventy five year old Irene Holden was sick. A welfare check at Irene's residence showed she was not at home and possibly walked off. Irene has a small build with short white and gray hair. A check with local hospitals turned up negative for Irene who has unknown medical issues at this time. Irene is not associated with any vehicle at this time.

Any citizen with information to Irene's possible whereabouts is asked to call "911" as soon as possible. 

July 19, 2019

Donovan Flippo pleads guilty to assaulting a man in NE Portland, receives jail and probation sentence

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced that 24-year-old Donovan Flippo pleaded guilty and received a sentence that includes jail time, probation and a specific court order that while on probation, he not participate in any mass demonstration within Multnomah County after he assaulted a man in northeast Portland last summer.

“This case is about holding people accountable who commit crimes and I believe this sentence will do that,” said Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Nathan Vasquez, who prosecuted this case. “This sentence is appropriate when you look at other similarly situated individuals, which is something we must consider when reviewing, issuing and resolving any case.”

During the pendency of this case, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office frequently communicated with the victim to keep him updated. The victim was fully informed about the pretrial process and all pretrial negotiations. Prior to the change of plea hearing and sentencing, the victim communicated to our office his full support of the pretrial agreement.

Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Karin J. Immergut accepted Flippo’s change of plea and convicted him of one count of assault in the fourth degree.

Judge Immergut sentenced Flippo to eight days in jail, 24 months of formal probation and 40 hours of community service, which must be completed within six months. While on probation, Flippo will not be allowed to partake in any demonstration with more than 50 participants in Multnomah County and will not be allowed to have any contact with the victim.

This investigation started on July 12, 2018 when the victim reported to Portland Police that on June 8, 2018 he was assaulted at the intersection of Northeast 12th Avenue and Northeast Broadway Street in Portland, Oregon.

The victim told police that as he crossed south on Northeast 12th Avenue, he saw a truck stopped at the red light. The vehicle was headed west on Northeast Broadway Street. Flippo was a passenger of that vehicle.

The victim told police that some of the occupants of the vehicle were shouting politically-based comments. The victim told police that he recognized Flippo as a passenger inside the vehicle and as someone who attends political demonstrations in Portland, Oregon.

During the investigation, police learned that the victim yelled back to the occupants of the vehicle. Upon doing so, Flippo exited the vehicle. There was a brief verbal altercation that resulted in the victim being physically assaulted.

The victim received multiple stitches to his lip as a result of the injuries he sustained. He was also treated for a concussion.

By pleading guilty, Flippo is admitting that he unlawfully and recklessly caused physical injury to the victim. If he violates his probation, Flippo could be sentenced up to a year in custody.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office is unable to release any additional details about this case at this time. Copies of the police reports and any other associated material, such as photos and/or video, are exempt from public release at this time under ORS 192.345 (3) because of pending criminal litigation that does not involve Flippo but stems from the same criminal conduct.  

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

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

Gresham, Ore. – Gresham Police is asking for the public’s assistance in locating the suspect in an assault with a hammer. The assault occurred just after 5:00 a.m. at the 7-Eleven located at 1430 NE 181st Ave. in Gresham.

The victim in the assault was transported to a local hospital and is receiving treatment for serious head injuries. There is no known connection or relationship between the suspect and victim in this case. The victim’s information is not being released at this time.

The suspect has been identified as 39-year-old Jonathan Jones of Portland. Mr. Jones is approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighs 235 lbs. He has short dark hair and brown eyes. Mr. Jones has connections in the Gresham, Portland and Vancouver areas. Mr. Jones is considered armed and a public safety risk.

Mr. Jones drives a 2014 tan Jeep Cherokee with Oregon license plate 006LLC.

As we continue to follow up on leads, we are asking for the public’s assistance. Anyone who knows of Jones’ whereabouts is encouraged to call the non-emergency number at 503-823-3333. If you see Jones or his vehicle, please call 911.

July 19, 2019

The Oregon Health Authority issued three recreational use health advisories today due to the presence of cyanobacterial (harmful algae) blooms and cyanotoxins (harmful algae toxins) above recreational guideline values for human exposure. The lakes are in Clatsop, Klamath, and Coos counties.

Recreational use advisory issued for Cullaby Lake July 19

Recreational use advisory issued for Klamath Lake July 19

Recreational use advisory issued for South Lake at Tenmile Lakes July 19

Video: Dr. Dave Farrer, Toxicologist, gives freshwater advisory safety tips

Media contact: Delia Hernández, 503-422-7179, PHD.Communications@state.or.us

HILLSBORO, Ore.- On July 18, 2019, Judge Charles Bailey sentenced Juan Perales Jr. to 75 months in prison. On June 20, 2019, Perales was convicted on multiple charges including first-degree sexual abuse, fourth-degree assault constituting domestic violence, strangulation and menacing constituting domestic violence. The case was prosecuted by Senior Deputy District Attorney John Gerhard.

On December 21, 2018, Perales, who lived and worked in Seattle, Washington at the time, convinced the victim to come to his hotel. He told her it would be safe because there would be other people at the facility.

Once inside his room, Perales became agitated and began to threaten the victim because she wanted to end their relationship. He grabbed a handgun and pulled the slide back in an attempt to intimidate her. The woman tried to leave the room, but Perales grabbed her by the neck and pushed her onto the bed. He then used his body weight to pin her to the bed and began kissing her despite her objections. He covered her mouth and nose with his hand to muffle her screams, obstructing her breathing in the process.

As he continued to hold her down, Perales then forcibly engaged in sexual activity with her against her will. The victim was screaming so loudly that hotel security called to check on the room twice. During the second call the victim was able to escape the room and was seen on hotel surveillance video running from Perales as he chased her down a hallway. He put her in a headlock and tried to drag her back into his room but ended up locking himself out.

Beaverton Police arrived a short time later and arrested Perales. He admitted to engaging in the unwanted sexual contact with the victim and also admitted he prevented her from leaving the hotel at least three times.

“Mr. Perales subjected his victim to a horrific situation, and no person deserves to be treated that way,” Gerhard said of the abuse committed by Perales. “I am thankful that he was held accountable for his crimes. The Washington County DA’s Office is committed to our mission of protecting vulnerable victims, including domestic violence survivors.”

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the work of Beaverton Police Detective Chad Opitz on this case. We’d also like to commend the victim for her bravery in testifying in court.

In addition to his prison sentence, the defendant will have to register as a sex offender for life, and he will also be subject to 10 years of post-prison supervision with recommendations for sex offender and domestic violence counseling.

Perales has been transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to serve his sentence.

Beaverton Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a suspicious male.

On July 6, 2019 at 2:41p.m., a male tried to get an 11-year-old girl to come over to his vehicle twice in the parking lot of Walmart, located at 9055 SW Murray Blvd. The young girl told the male "no" and was able to seek out help from an adult leaving the store.

Beaverton detectives would like to identify the suspicious male and the adult who helped the young girl. The male was described as an older Caucasian male (60’s or 70’s) with wrinkles on his face, scruffy facial hair and a tattoo on his upper left arm. The male was wearing a black baseball cap. The male was driving a red truck similar to a mid-90’s Dodge Dakota club cab with Oregon license plates. The open truck bed had items in the back that looked like shelving. The truck also had a dent on the driver’s door as well as spots of rust on the driver’s side.

A composite drawing of the suspicious male was created and photographs of his vehicle were obtained. If anyone can help identify the suspicious male or the witness who helped the young girl, please call Detective Maggie Brown at 503-526-2538 or non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111.

July 19, 2019

Husband and wife receive prison sentences for committing nearly two dozen knifepoint robberies

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced that 40-year-old Nigel Floyd received a 20 year prison sentence and that his wife 40-year-old Stephanie Floyd received a 16 year prison sentence for their involvement in a series of knifepoint robberies that occurred in Portland, Gresham, Wood Village, and Happy Valley.

Nigel Floyd pleaded guilty to nine counts of robbery in the first degree and one count of attempted robbery in the first degree. Stephanie Floyd pleaded guilty to six counts of robbery in the first degree. These crimes occurred between January 20, 2018 and April 11, 2018.

"This resolution takes into account Mr. Floyd's lack of criminal record but captures the scope of his behavior and the trauma it caused the victims in both Multnomah County and Clackamas County. Rarely in our experience as prosecutors do we see someone who has no criminal record commit more than 20 robberies impacting almost 30 people. The state wants to make sure that Mr. Floyd is prepared to come back into the community without the same drug addiction that fueled this behavior,” said Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney David Hannon, who prosecuted this case. “Ms. Floyd showed immediate responsibility upon her arrest and came forward and confessed to other robberies that were previously unknown to detectives. Like her husband, we believe her actions were fueled by addiction.”

Detectives from the Gresham Police Department, Portland Police Bureau, Milwaukie Police Department, Multnomah County Sheriff's Office and the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office worked collaboratively to conduct surveillance around local stores similar to the locations that had been previously robbed. The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office assisted law enforcement in preparing an arrest warrant, search warrant and court orders for GPS data and cell phone tower data.

On April 11, 2018, a law enforcement surveillance team observed Nigel Floyd and Stephanie Floyd in the 7800-block of Northeast Glisan Street. Both were associated with a white mini-van. Law enforcement observed Nigel Floyd exit the mini-van and put on a mask. Shortly thereafter, Nigel Floyd robbed the business. Law enforcement watched as he exited the business and got back into the mini-van.

Stephanie Floyd was the getaway driver in a majority of the robberies while her husband was the person who entered the businesses to commit the robberies.

Law enforcement believe Nigel Floyd and Stephanie Floyd are responsible for the following robberies:

• January 20, 2018 - Metro PCS store located at 3510 SE 122nd Avenue
• January 24, 2018, the Game Stop store located at 4328 SE 82nd Avenue
• January 26, 2018, the Metro PCS store located at 1665 NE Division Street
• January 29, 2018, the Metro PCS store located at 3510 Southeast 122nd Avenue
• January 29, 2018, the Metro PCS store located 17988 Northeast Glisan Street
• February 05, 2018, Sally's Beauty Supply located at 11966 Northeast Glisan Street
• February 09, 2018 the GNC (General Nutrition Centers) store located at 1307 Northeast 102nd Avenue, Suite N
• February 13, 2018, the Sally's Beauty Supply store located at 1505 Northeast 40th Avenue, Suite B
• On February 20, 2018, the T-Mobile store located at 901 Southwest Highland Drive, Suite E
• February 24, 2018, the Cricket Wireless store located at 1 Northeast 181st Avenue
• March 02, 2018, Emerald Vapors (a vape shop) located at 8136 Southeast Foster Road
• March 12, 2018, Str8vaping (a vape shop) located at 40 Northeast Division Street
• March 13, 2018, the Game Stop located at 2705 Northeast 238th Drive
• March 18, 2018, the Metro PCS store located at 801 Northeast 242nd Drive
• March 21, 2018 the Boost Mobile Store located at 1120 Northeast 82nd Avenue
• April 03, 2018, Metro PCS located at 9226 Southeast Division Street Unit A

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office previously released surveillance photos of Nigel Floyd, which were included as part of the official court record in this case. Those images can be found by clicking here and scrolling to the bottom of the press release.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office recognizes the Gresham Police Department, Portland Police Bureau, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Milwaukie Police Department and the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office for their dedicated efforts investigating this case. Furthermore, the District Attorney’s Office would like to recognize the many victims in this case who came forward and cooperated with law enforcement.

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

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

Know someone who:

• Needs to improve their job skills?
• Wants to be a better candidate for jobs?
• Wants to start a small business?

The Prosperidad Economic Empowerment Center in Downtown Hillsboro can help, in English or Spanish.

In June, the Hillsboro City Council continued support for the center by contributing $337,243 — mostly from Community Services Fees paid by businesses in the City’s Enterprise Zone.

Since 2017, Prosperidad staff report 830 people have registered for support services:

• 236 people sought job support, and 145 obtained employment
• 230 people used language and computer lab services, and 71 completed computer literacy training
• 17 people completed GEDs, while another 64 enrolled for GED preparation
• 125 people participated in the business development component, including 23 business development workshops
• 46 new businesses were created: 16 obtained financing, and 15 became licensed in the City of Hillsboro

Created in 2017, the employment and business development center at Main Street and 4th Avenue is a partnership between the City of Hillsboro and Centro Cultural de Washington County.

Staff from Centro Cultural lead the center, and the City’s financial contribution will gradually decline as additional community partners lend their support.

The project builds on existing services in the region, without duplicating services provided by WorkSource, Portland Community College, WorkSystems, the State of Oregon, and other community groups.

Learn more about the City of Hillsboro's job creation work.

(Salem, Oregon) July 19, 2019:   Athletes and sports enthusiasts of all levels can run, bike, and swim at the Salem Rotary Multi-sport Riverfest, Sept. 15. Experience a course like no other, featuring three parks, two bridges, and the Willamette River. 

Salem Riverfest has four multi-sport events, available for individuals or teams.  There will be Olympic and sprint distance triathlons (swim/bike/run) and duathlons (run/bike/run). 

 Runners of all levels can enjoy some of the most scenic trails in Minto-Brown Island Park with the 5K or 10K events. For families and pets (on a leash), the Family Fun Run/Walk in Riverfront Park will take everyone on a 1K  journey past the Peter Courtney Bridge and around the Eco-earth Globe. 

“I’m signing up for the 5K with a bunch of friends,” said Salem resident Jill Tucker. “We’re going to call our group The Strollers!”

 Event organizers also hope people use this event to challenge themselves.  “Swimming in the Willamette River can be demanding yet it is a great opportunity to have a unique athletic experience,” said Race Chair Robert Chandler.  He encourages swimmers to give it a try first. Mediterra Swim and Run is offering practice swim clinics in the Willamette. The schedule can be found at www.MediterraSwim.com.

 Registration fees vary and increase after July 31.

 Triathlon and duathlon: $95 for individuals/$55 per person for team members. 

• 10K run: $40 ($20/18 and under)

• 5K run: $30 ($15/18 and under)

• 1K Family Fun Run: $15. 

The event is presented as a community service by the Rotary Clubs of Salem and South Salem. Proceeds will be used to support Rotary’s community and international service projects that promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water, support education and grow local economies.

 For more information about the event or to register, go to www.rotaryriverfestsalem.org.

(Salem, Ore.) — The Governor’s Commission on Senior Services (GCSS) Executive Committee will meet from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 25, 2019, at the Department of Human Services’ Office, 500 Summer St. NE, Room 164, Salem, Oregon, 97301.

The meeting is open to the public. Agenda items include regular GCSS business, updates from legislative committee and recruitment efforts, review of applicants, meeting planning and setting the agenda for the full commission meeting on Aug. 8, 2019. Those who can’t attend in person may call into the meeting using this conference line and access code: (503) 934-1400, 6910 1240#.

The meeting location is accessible to people with disabilities. For questions about accessibility or to request an accommodation, please contact Lori Watt at i.C.Watt@state.or.us">Lori.C.Watt@state.or.us. Requests should be made at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting. For questions about the meeting, please contact: Deb McCuin, program analyst at Debbie.Mccuin@state.or.us.

About the Governor’s Commission on Senior Services

The Governor’s Commission on Senior Services is dedicated to enhancing and protecting the quality of life for all older Oregonians. Through cooperation with other organizations, and advocacy, the commission works to ensure that seniors have access to services that provide, choice, independence, and dignity.

# # #

(Salem, Ore.) – The Oregon Disabilities Commission will host a day-long informational event on July 23 in Salem in recognition of the 29th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The free event, which is open to the public, will feature presentations, panel discussions and other learning opportunities from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Human Services Building, 500 Summer St. NE, Salem. Among the presenters will be members of the Portland Pounders Wheelchair Rugby Team as well as advocates Sherrin Coleman and Gabrielle Guedon.

The day will start with a welcome ceremony followed by concurrent workshop sessions that begin at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Workshop topics will include:

• The history of the Americans with Disabilities Act;
• Day-to-day challenges for individuals living with disabilities;
• Living with a hidden disability;
• Dealing with behavioral health and disability problems; and,
• A motivational talk on living with a disability.

Featured event speeches will be from noon to 1 p.m. with speakers from the Oregon Disabilities Commission, Oregon Department of Human Services, Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Governor’s Office. Cake and refreshments will follow the speeches.   

Along with the speeches and informational sessions, there will be several showings of the documentary, Lives Worth Living, about the disability rights movement. Screening times are: 9:45 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Groups who will be hosting informational booths include:

• Employment First;
• Vocational Rehabilitation;
• Disability Rights Oregon;
• Employed Persons with Disabilities;
• Oregon ABLE Savings;
• Oregon Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services Advisory Council; and,
• Veteran’s Employee Resource Group & Oregon Disabled Veterans Association.

The meeting location is accessible to people with disabilities. For questions about accessibility or to request an accommodation, please contact Lori Watt at Lori.C.Watt@state.or.us  Requests should be made at least 48 hours in advance of the event. There will be American Sign Language interpreters at the event.

If you have questions about the celebration and program, contact: OregonDisabilities.Commission@state.or.us.

About the Oregon Disabilities Commission:

The Oregon Disabilities Commission is charged by state statute to advise the Department of Human Services, the Governor, the Legislative Assembly and appropriate state agency administrators on issues related to achieving the full economic, social, legal and political equity of individuals with disabilities. ODC also acts as a coordinating link between and among public and private organizations services individuals with disabilities.

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Vancouver, Wash. – This weekend the Vancouver, Battle Ground and Washougal Police Departments and Clark County Sheriff’s Office will have additional officers enforcing the DUI laws, in an effort to keep drunk, drugged and high drivers off the road. Officers, who are also drug recognition experts, will be among those conducting these increased DUI patrols. In addition Officers from the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board will also be participating in this emphasis.

Alcohol and drug impaired driving is the leading contributing factor in Washington fatal crashes, with alcohol and cannabis being the most common combination of intoxicants. Getting behind the wheel intoxicated can mean a DUI, if you don’t plan ahead for sober transportation. As a reminder, Uber offers first time users a special coupon code for $25 toward their first trip. Sign up for the Uber coupon code RIDEHOMEVANC at https://get.uber.com/go/ridehomevanc.

Thanks to a grant from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, law enforcement agencies in SW Washington have extra officers conducting DUI enforcement throughout the year to help keep our roadways safer.

If you are driving and see a suspected impaired driver, call 911.

For more information on the Vancouver Police Department’s commitment to DUI enforcement and DUI prevention tips, visit https://www.cityofvancouver.us/police/page/dui-enforcement .

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The Vancouver Police Department is seeking applicants for Entry and Lateral Police Officers. If you are interested in a career with us, visit http://www.cityofvancouver.us/police/page/careers.

(Salem, Oregon)  July 19, 2019 - While tiny home living continues to grow in popularity, Oregon regulations have failed to adopt new square feet standards and regulations, which vary from city to city.  Tiny living advocates hope to educate citizens and policymakers at a symposium Friday, Aug. 16, from 1:00 - 3:30 p.m. at the Polk County Fairgrounds.

Featured speakers include filmmakers and co-founders of Tiny House Expedition, Alexis Stephens and Christian Parsons. Their highly acclaimed docu-series Tiny Living Legally explores the potential benefits tiny houses can bring to a community, the legal obstacles and how these are being overcome in a growing number of cities.

Other state’s regulations are amenable to tiny homes, but Oregon’s are not. While tiny living is both economically and environmentally friendly, many jurisdictions have restrictions about home size and placement that keep tiny home living legally out of reach.

Renee McLaughlin, tiny house owner and organizer of TinyFest NorthWest, is hoping the symposium inspires real dialog with rule-makers about tiny living.

“The rules and regulations regarding tiny living are murky at best,” said McLaughlin. “Currently there are standards for manufactured homes, modular homes and recreational vehicles, but not tiny houses. Regulations are not standardized throughout the region and they’re up to interpretation by local officials. This makes it hard to relocate a tiny house that may have met standards in one location but not in another.”

This lack of consistency is confusing to both consumers and regulators.  People want to do things the correct way, but right now, that is not clear, she said.

“For me, it’s about choice,” continued McLaughlin. “People want the choice to live in an environmentally friendly and economically responsible way. The movement isn’t going away and we have to address the rules around it.”

Additional speakers include local tiny house builder and regulations advocate, Nathan Watson, owner of Tiny Smart House, and Kevin Polk, executive director of the American Tiny House Association. 

The symposium precedes TinyFest NorthWest, Aug. 17-18, a two-day event that celebrates tiny living with tiny home showcases, speaker presentations, and workshops also at the Polk County Fairgrounds.

Policymakers are especially encouraged to attend. Registration is free, yet event organizers request an RSVP by Aug. 2 at symposium@tinyfest.events.

Learn more at www.TinyFest.events.

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About the Tiny House Symposium:  Designed for those involved in community planning, zoning and building codes, city managers and community advocates to learn about zoning, building codes, and regulations that affect tiny living.  Counties covered: Lane, Linn, Benton, Lincoln, Polk, Marion, Clackamas, Yamhill, Tillamook, Washington, Multnomah, Columbia, Clatsop. RSVP requested at symposium@tinyfest.events

About TinyFest NorthWest: Come celebrate tiny living at TinyFest NorthWest! Aug 17-18 at the Polk County Fairgrounds. Explore a variety of tiny houses from pro-builders and DIYers. Tour tiny houses on wheels, backyard cottages, shipping container homes, vans, bus conversions and more! Enjoy the Simple Living Marketplace, meet the builders, hear live music and eat good food. Soak in all the knowledge and spark new ideas! TinyFest NorthWest will feature a full line-up of speakers and workshops to inspire and inform. Plus, builders and DIYers love to share their expertise and experiences. www.Tinyfestnorthwest.com.

LAKE OSWEGO – Underage drinking is a national public health and safety issue. To help minimize alcohol related incidents involving minors, the Lake Oswego Police Department will be conducting operations to ensure local businesses licensed to sell alcohol are abiding by laws prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages to minors.

Between August 1st and August 30th, underage decoys will be sent to businesses within Lake Oswego and will attempt to purchase alcohol. The City has conducted similar operations in the past and has had very good compliance from local businesses. By continuing to reinforce the importance of preventing underage drinking, the Police Department hopes to achieve 100% compliance from businesses this year.

Businesses are required to request identification from purchasers of alcohol if the purchaser appears to be younger than 26 years old. Businesses can be held accountable if they distribute, sell or otherwise make alcoholic beverages available to a person who is not 21 years old. Failing to assure the proper age of the purchaser may result in the issuance of a citation for violating Oregon Revised Statute 471.410 – Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor. Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor is a Class A Violation punishable by monetary fines of up to $440.

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, alcohol is the drug of choice among America’s adolescents, used by more young people than tobacco or illicit drugs. Underage alcohol consumption in the United States is a widespread and persistent public health and safety problem that creates serious personal, social, and economic consequences for adolescents, their families, communities, and the Nation as a whole.

For additional information about this underage alcohol sale operation, please contact Lt. Darryl Wrisley at 503-635-0250.

At approximately 4:17 am on July 19, CWFD received a report of a fully engulfed structure fire in the 2100 block of 37th Street in Washougal.  First arriving crews found a single family home fully involved.  Due to the severity of the fire, a defensive stragedy was employed to try to protect surrounding structures.  The home is considered a total loss.  

There was a single occupant at the home when the fire started.  He was rescued by a neighbor who saw the flames and pulled  the victim out of the garage door.  The occupant was transported to a local hospital with severe burns.  Further information about his condition is not known.  The cause of the fire is under investigation by the CWFD Fire Marshal's Office.  

CWFD personnel were assisted by crews from East County Fire and Rescue, and the Vancouver Fire Department.  

It’s rodeo time in the Santiam Canyon!  As rodeo fans gather in Sublimity this weekend for the Santiam Canyon Stampede the Sheriff’s Office will be out on the roadways promoting traffic safety.  As a part of this effort, the Traffic Safety Team will have additional deputies working Friday and Saturday nights looking for drunk drivers.

The additional patrols during summer events such as the Santiam Canyon Stampede are funded by grants obtained from our partner agencies at the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Remember, as you make your rodeo plans, don’t forget the designated driver!

This afternoon at approximately 2:09 pm, emergency services were dispatched for a water rescue at North Fork Park along the Little North Fork of the Santiam River in Marion County.  It was reported a swimmer had gone underwater and did not resurface. 

Prior to emergency services arriving on scene, bystanders were able to get the adult swimmer out of the water.  Emergency responders from Lyons Fire District and Stayton Fire District took extensive efforts to attempt to resuscitate the male; tragically he was pronounced as deceased at the scene.

The deceased swimmer has been identified as Baltazar Tellovelasco, 29, of Oxnard, California. 

Deputies learned Tellovelasco had gone into the water to assist his 12-year-old daughter who appeared to be in distress.  She was able to make it out safely; however, Tellovelasco was not able to return to shore. 

The Little North Fork of the Santiam River is a popular recreational area in the Santiam Canyon.  Even on warm days, the water remains very cold, swift, and can be deeper than anticipated by swimmers.  The Marion County Sheriff’s Office suggests swimmers exercise caution by following some simple steps:

• Never swim alone
• Avoid alcohol and marijuana around the water
• Wear a lifejacket
• Know how to perform CPR
• Know how and where you can call 911

The Sheriff’s Office reminds visitors there is very little to no cell phone reception in the North Fork area of the Santiam River.  There are two 911 call boxes located on the outside wall of the Elk Horn Fire Station and at the entrance to Salmon Falls Park.

July 18, 2019

Indictment alleges man, 51, illegally towed hundreds of cars to be crushed without consent or proper documentation

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced the filing of a 117-count indictment against 51-year-old Carlos Lopez-Torres for allegedly trafficking stolen vehicles and making false statements on paperwork submitted to the Oregon Department of Transportation. Furthermore, it is alleged that Lopez-Torres is likely responsible for stealing more than 300 vehicles throughout Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington using a homemade tow truck and then collecting more than $86,000 after he sold the vehicles to a scrap metal company, according to court documents.

The indictment charges Lopez-Torres with four counts of trafficking in stolen vehicles, four counts of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, four counts of being in possession of a stolen vehicle, four counts of theft in the first degree, one count of acting as a vehicle dealer without a certificate, one count of conducting a motor vehicle dismantling business without a certificate, one count of false swearing with regards to a vehicle’s registration and 98 counts of making a false statement about a vehicle’s title or transfer.

According to court documents, Lopez-Torres started selling vehicles to the scrap metal company in July 2018 and continued to sell cars, illegally, through July 2, 2019.

During the investigation, Detective Travis Fields with the Portland Police Bureau's Detective Coordination Team determined that Lopez-Torres sold approximately 370 vehicles during that time and was paid $86,328.20 from the scrap metal company.

For every vehicle Lopez-Torres sold, law enforcement determined that he removed the catalytic converter and sold that component separately to another company, according to court documents.

When Lopez-Torres sold the vehicles to the scrap metal company, he used the name “Carlos Towing LLC,” and made false statements regarding the ownership of those vehicles, according to court documents.

According to an affidavit of probable cause: his business is not registered with the City of Portland. Neither Lopez-Torres nor his business have a towing license, a dismantler’s license or a vehicle dealer’s license issued by the State of Oregon. Additionally, neither he nor his business are contracted with the City of Portland to tow vehicles upon request.

Law enforcement determined Lopez-Torres brought nearly every vehicle he had stolen to the scrap yard using a homemade tow truck that consisted of a red pickup with a hydraulic boom installed in the bed of the truck. The vehicle did not have any safety gear or an improved breaking system, court documents state. The vehicle did not have any company name or signage.

According to court documents, Lopez-Torres paid others a $70 “vehicle finder’s fee” after they located a vehicle for him to tow.

“It is believed that the vast majority of the over 370 vehicles towed by [Lopez-Torres] and sold…were in fact stolen by the defendant from where he located the vehicles parked throughout Portland and Vancouver,” Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Kevin Demer, who is prosecuting this case, alleged in court documents.

During the investigation, law enforcement located several text messages in which Lopez-Torres was told where various cars were parked on the side of the road throughout the metro. Some of these text messages included photos of the cars on the roadside, according to court documents.

On July 2, 2019, law enforcement located and arrested Lopez-Torres in the 5900 block of Northeast 60th Avenue in Portland, Oregon and arrested him.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime. Lopez-Torres is innocent unless and until proven guilty.

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

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

The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) is committed to providing the very best public safety services for the residents of Multnomah County, which includes our immigrant and refugee communities. In this current political climate, we recognize that people in these communities may feel fear and distrust toward law enforcement officers. We want to ensure that our residents know MCSO does not enforce federal immigration law nor do we have authority in deportation.

MCSO adheres to Oregon State Law and federal court decisions when it comes to enforcing federal immigration laws. Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 181A.820 states:

No law enforcement agency of the State of Oregon or of any political subdivision of the state shall use agency moneys, equipment or personnel for the purpose of detecting or apprehending persons whose only violation of law is that they are persons of foreign citizenship present in the United States in violation of federal immigration laws.

You can read the full statute at: https://www.oregonlaws.org/ors/181A.820

Our current policy states “… because of state law, MCSO must draw a bright line with regard to the work of the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a subset of DHS, and the responsibilities of MCSO. MCSO’s mission does not encompass the enforcement of federal immigration law.”

You can read the full policy at https://www.mcso.us/site/policy_review.php which is open for review. As a stakeholder, we want to know what you think. Please feel free to send us your feedback on this policy.

“I’m proud of MCSO’s relationship with the immigrant and refugee community. We work hard every day to build trust with these communities and will continue to do so. We are here to serve all members of our community regardless of immigration status. Please call us in case of an emergency, to report a crime, or to find a missing person. Sheriff Deputies will not ask anyone about their immigration status.”-Sheriff Mike Reese

July 18, 2019

Media contact: Saerom England, 971-239-6483, om.y.england@dhsoha.state.or.us">saerom.y.england@dhsoha.state.or.us

Tri-County Regional Behavioral Health Collaborative Communities of Color Workgroup meets July 25 in Portland

What: A meeting of the Tri-County Regional Behavioral Health Collaborative Communities of Color Workgroup

Agenda: Review and discuss community survey results; plan for community engagement; explore strategies and identify activities to further goals.

When: Thursday, July 25, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 1E, 800 NE Oregon Street, Portland, OR, 97232

Details:The Tri-County Regional Behavioral Health Collaborative brings together multiple sectors across the Portland metro area to collectively address and prevent behavioral health challenges. Its focus is on peer-delivered services and substance use disorder activities that can make an impact in 12-to-24 months.

For more information, please visit the RBHC website.

# # #

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 Summer Boslaugh, 503-753-9688, 711 TTY, or .h.boslaugh@dhsoha.state.or.us">summer.h.boslaugh@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

TVF&R has enacted a High-Fire Danger Burn Ban. Outdoor burning will be banned throughout TVFR’s jurisdiction, which includes portions of Washington, Multnomah, Clackamas and Yamhill counties. (See jurisdiction map attached.)

The burn ban prohibits all of the following:

            1. Backyard or open burning (branches, yard debris, etc.).

            2. Agricultural burning (agricultural wastes, crops, field burning, etc.).

            3. Any other land clearing or slash burning.

The burn ban does not prohibit:

            1. Small backyard recreational fire pits (maximum three feet in diameter and two feet high) in a safe location. Use only                      clean, dry firewood.

            2.  Outdoor fireplaces, grills, portable fireplaces (chimineas, etc.) and similar appliances with clean, dry firewood,           

                 briquettes, propane or natural gas.

The ban will likely remain in effect until the fall when weather conditions pose less fire risk.

The Oregon State Marine Board, in partnership with 32 county sheriff’s offices and the Oregon State Police, will be out in force August 3-4, looking for expired boat registrations as part of “Operation Ship Shape.” 

“We want boaters to look at their boat’s decals, the registration numbers, and their registration card and make sure they’re up-to-date,” says Randy Henry, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board.  “Make sure you’ve renewed your registration, and make sure you’ve put the decal on your boat, or you could face a $265 citation.” 

The Marine Board is funded by registration, title fees and marine fuel taxes paid by motorized boaters.  No lottery, general fund tax dollars or local facility parking fees are used to fund agency programs.  These fees go back to boaters in the form of boat ramps, docks, trailered parking spaces, restrooms, construction and maintenance, and for boating safety -marine law enforcement services.

“Any boat that is powered by a motor – electric, gas, diesel or steam, and all sailboats 12 feet and longer -must be currently registered when on the water, even when docked or moored,” said Henry.  This includes inflatable rafts with an electric motor, even a standup paddleboard or float tube with an electric motor.  Henry added, “Each boat registration brings in additional funds from motorboat fuel tax and federal boating dollars.  Registering a 16-foot boat provides $77 of funding, but results in additional matching funds of nearly $190, so that $77 registration fee results in $267 of revenue available to fund facilities and marine enforcement.”

Motorboat registrations are $4.50 per foot, rounded up, plus $5 which fund invasive species inspection stations.  Registration fees will increase to $5.95 per foot, plus $5 in 2020, so Henry suggests that if your boat registration lapsed, register now at the current fee, which is valid for two calendar years.

Boaters can renew their boat registration online at www.boatoregon.com/store, or can visit their local registration agent.  Boaters can print off a temporary permit after successfully completing their transaction online or will be issued a temporary permit through an agent for an additional fee.  If you need assistance renewing online, please contact the Marine Board at ine.board@oregon.gov">marine.board@oregon.gov or 503-378-8587.

For a list of registration agents, visit http://www.oregon.gov/osmb/title-registration/Pages/Where-to-Register.aspx.

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Hillsboro’s next City Manager is expected to come from among 37 candidates who applied for the position by the June 30 application deadline.

Applicants from 15 states — as far away as Florida and New Jersey — are seeking to lead the City of Hillsboro’s 1,300 employees and to serve at the direction of the Hillsboro City Council.

Here are the next steps in the City Council’s hiring process:

• The executive search firm Waldron will review the 37 applicants’ qualifications, then present the most highly qualified candidates to the Council during an executive session meeting on Monday, July 22.
• To allow the Council the opportunity to discuss City Manager candidates’ qualifications, this executive session is not an open public meeting per Oregon public meeting laws.
• Following the presentation and discussion, the Council is expected to select which City Manager candidates will move forward for interviews in late July and August.

The City Council called for a nationwide search to recruit Hillsboro’s next City Manager. In April, City Councilors held listening tours at four community gathering places to hear recommendations from community members about what to look for in a City Manager.

In May, the City launched its national recruitment effort with a recruitment video and a position profile developed by the City Council with input from community members, community partners, and City staff.

Hillsboro Mayor Steve Callaway has described the City Manager hiring as “the most important decision we will make as a City Council.”

                             Keizer Police Department Media Release

Incident Type:         Cold Case Homicide

Date/Time:               February 14th, 2011

Location:                 1143 Orchard Court NE, Keizer  

Victim:                     Christine Speten, 43 years old at the time of her death

Summary:

On February 14th, 2011, Christine Speten, a 43 year old woman, was discovered murdered inside her apartment at 1143 Orchard Court NE in Keizer. Detectives worked tirelessly on this case; however, it remains unsolved.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Andy Phelps at 503-856-3497. You can remain anonymous, emailing info to tips@keizer.org or you can call the tip line at 503-856-3519. Reference case # 1101407.

Sent by:

Lt. Bob Trump, PIO

Office: 503-856-3505

Cell: 503-932-2528

Lincoln City Police arrest 30-year-old Glenn L. Thompson of Salem, Oregon after he led them on a high speed vehicle pursuit.

On Wednesday, July 17, 2019 at about 10:45 PM, an LCPD Officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a black BMW on Hwy 101 near the clover-leaf of Hwy 18 for an observed traffic violation. The suspect vehicle failed to stop for the officer and sped away, which led to a pursuit. A Lincoln County Sheriff Deputy, who was in the area, began assisting in the pursuit. The fleeing vehicle turned onto North Bank Road and eventually made its way back to HWY 18 at the Rose Lodge Store. It then turned westbound on Hwy 18 heading towards Lincoln City. While on Hwy 18 the driver of the BMW drove into the on-coming lane of traffic causing other vehicles to take evasive action and at times was driving over 100 miles per hour. Additional Lincoln City Police Officers and an Oregon State Police Trooper responded to assist, with one Lincoln City officer stopping in the area of HWY 101 near the Neotsu Post Office to set up for Stop Stick deployment. As the suspect vehicle traveled through that area the officer was able to successfully deploy the Stop Stick tire deflation system, resulting in three of the four tires on the suspect vehicle hitting the sticks. After hitting the Stop Sticks, the pursuit continued into Lincoln City as the tires on the suspect vehicle where deflating. With three flat tires on the suspect vehicle the driver finely stopped his vehicle on Highway 101 directly in front of TLC Credit Union, ending the pursuit.

A felony traffic stop was conducted and the driver, and only occupant of the vehicle, was taken into custody. The driver, identified as 30-year-old Glenn L. Thompson, was initially transported to the Lincoln City Police Department and later transported to the Lincoln County Jail where he was lodged on charges of Felony Elude, Reckless Driving and Reckless Endangering. Thompson was also subsequently cited for Driving While Suspended-Violation. The vehicle was towed from the location.

The Lincoln City Police would like to thank the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and the Oregon State Police for their assistance with this incident and we are thankful there were no injuries or other property damage sustained as a result of the pursuit.   

Submitted by:  Sergeant Jeffrey Winn

The Friends of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and the National Park Service are pleased to announce that members of the Columbia Basin Basketry Guild will demonstrate basket and cordage making on Saturday, August 3, from 12 pm to 4 pm at the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center. 

The Indigenous peoples of the Columbia River made baskets for gathering and storage. Their techniques were handed down generation to generation, and influence both Native and non-native basket makers today. Guild members will show their work and also teach visitors how to make cordage. Visitors can use the cordage to create a bracelet. 

“The guild is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and teaching the art of basketry, a skill that has deep roots in the Pacific Northwest. We are so pleased that the members are offering their time to share their techniques with visitors,” said Executive Director Mary Rose.

The Columbia Basin Basketry Guild was formed in the summer of 1989 by a small group of basket makers from the Portland and Vancouver area so that basket makers could share ideas, information, and techniques with each other and with the community. Its mission is to preserve, promote, and teach the art of basketry. Today the guild has more than 225 members,

What: Demonstration of basket and cordage making

Who: Columbia Basin Basketry Guild

When: August 3, 2019, 12 pm to 4 pm

Where: Fort Vancouver Visitor Center

Cost: Free

The fifth annual Veteran Benefit Expo, the state’s largest veteran benefit resource event, will be held in Pendleton next week, July 27th at the Pendleton Convention Center.  Doors open at 9 a.m.

Organized by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs and in partnership with Oregon Lottery, the Expo is a one-stop shop for Oregon veterans to learn about and access the full range of their earned benefits and local resources, in areas such as health care, disability claims assistance, finance, home loans, long-term care, mental health, education, business, recreation and more.

Over 65 benefit agencies, nonprofits, service providers and benefit experts will be on hand to assist veterans and their families in learning about the resources available to them.

“One thing we hear from veterans year after year with this event is that they’re blown away by all the benefits and resources they never knew existed,” ODVA Director Kelly Fitzpatrick said. “Most come to the Expo with some idea of a few areas they want information in, but they always walk away with a whole lot more.”

The event moves to a new location each year, and has previously been hosted in Salem, Portland, Redmond and Medford. This year’s event will be its first time visiting eastern Oregon.

The Veteran Benefit Expo is free and open to all. Doors close at 3:00 p.m.

On Friday evening, July 26th at 6 to 7 p.m., ODVA is hosting a veteran’s town hall meeting at the same location. Director Kelly Fitzpatrick will provide a brief update about new veteran services and programs, as well as be available to answer questions and hear concerns from veterans living in Eastern Oregon.

For more information about the Expo, visit www.expo.oregondva.com. 

# # #

On Tuesday, July 16, 2019, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office held a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a preview of the new Washington County Sheriff’s Office Public Safety Training Center.

Located at 600 SW Walnut Street in Hillsboro, this $20 million facility has been in the works for several years. The 116,029 square foot building was designed to be an all-inclusive training center for law enforcement. It features offices, classrooms, two indoor shooting ranges, an outdoor emergency vehicle training course, defensive tactics mat rooms, an armory, and the region’s largest scenario village and mock jail.

This new center brings all types of training into one centralized location. We believe this valuable resource will improve public safety training for not only our agency, but for our partner agencies as well, resulting in improved public safety for everyone.

The invitation-only event was attended by local dignitaries, community leaders and various stakeholders in Washington County. Washington County Board of Commissioners Chair Kathryn Harrington and Washington County Sheriff Pat Garrett spoke at this special event.

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/0HL3ODX9d18

Battle Ground, WA  -  Annual Transportation Benefit District (TBD) street maintenance and preservation projects are underway in the city of Battle Ground.  The projects are funded by city residents who pay an annual $20 TBD vehicle tab fee.  The annual revenue generated, about $280,000 this year, is used for the sole purpose of street projects within Battle Ground city limits.

This year’s projects include crack sealing, chip sealing and micro-surfacing projects designed to protect streets from damaging water intrusion that would otherwise lead to potholes and eventual failure of the roadway.  City Public Works crews are applying crack sealant, a rubberized asphalt, into road cracks on streets throughout the city.    

Micro-surfacing and chip sealing is applied to the the entire street, from curb to curb, and will be used on four highly used roadways this summer.  Micro-surfacing will applied at two locations – N. Parkway (Main Street to Onsdorff) and NE Rasmussen (just east of SE Grace to Commerce).   Chip sealing will be applied to NW Onsdorff (SR 503 to Parkway) and on NE 249th Street (N. Parkway to NE Grace). 

These projects will necessitate partial-day street closures.  The city’s goal is to preserve these sections of roadway while minimizing disruption to neighbors and motorists.  Neighbors will be notified individually with detailed information, while road closure/detour information for motorists will be announced prior to the work on the city’s Facebook page and on the city’s website.

In addition, new street markings (thermoplastic crosswalks, railroad crossing, turn and traffic arrows) will be applied to micro-surfaced roads, and new long-striping (lane lines, fog, and bike lanes) will be applied to micro-surfaced and chip sealed roadways, as well as to West Main Street.   The highest-use roadways, North Parkway and Main Street will be long-striped using the thermoplastic method, to ensure a long-lasting application on these well-traveled roads.    

In March of this year, TBD funds were used to repair a section of SW Scotton Way where the roadway had developed deep potholes and crumbling asphalt.  A layer of asphalt was removed and replaced with new asphalt.

Finally, $11,850 of TBD funds will be leveraged as a match to garner a $193,000 Community Development Block Grant that will improve road and sidewalk conditions along SW 3rd Street and SW 19th Avenue.  The city continues to seek opportunities such as this to leverage and enhance the taxpayer’s investment.

For up-to-date TBD project information, visit www.cityofbg.org/streets or follow the city’s Facebook page at CityofBGWA. 

###

The City of Battle Ground, located in the heart of Clark County, WA, serves 21,000 residents.  The surrounding natural beauty, access to recreation activities, and close proximity to the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area make Battle Ground a desirable place to live and has created a period of considerable growth. The City functions under a Council-Manager form of government and provides vital public services such as police, planning and development, roads, parks, utilities and others. City leaders operate under guiding principles that were created with community input through a recent visioning process. More information about the City, including a list of its guiding principles can be found at www.cityofbg.org.

For Immediate Release                                        

July 25, 2019

Contact:                Linsay Hale  
                             503-378-2427

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a regular meeting at 10:00 a.m. on July 25, 2019. The meeting will be held in the Boardroom The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the deaf or hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made before the meeting by calling the contact listed above. 

Teleconference Information:

Dial-In: 888-273-3658

Participant Code: 4711910

If you dial-in for the meeting, please mute your phone unless you are addressing the group.  Doing so will enable you to hear the meeting more effectively.

Agenda Items:

 1. Minutes for January 24, 2019

Approve minutes

2. David Blann (DPSST #32676) – Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; Application for PSMF

Benefits

Presented by Linsay Hale

3. Malcus Williams (DPSST #33171) – Ashland Police Department; Supplemental

Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

Presented by Linsay Hale

3. Next meeting – TBD

Administrative Announcement

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

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office pretrial justice program, started in October 2018, is showing high success rates.  

The pretrial process begins when an inmate is interviewed by a pretrial specialist, a release recommendation is then provided to the Judge during arraignment.  This recommendation includes a risk assessment. The information obtained and the risk assessment are entered into the case management system.

The pretrial specialists are also verifying the information they gather during the interview by making contact with family, friends and employer of the client.   

If the client isn’t initially released at arraignment, the pretrial specialists take a second look at the situation, identify barriers that are keeping them in custody and make additional attempts to provide information to the court in a release hearing. 

The pretrial specialists are also meeting with clients who have a criminal case but are not lodged in the jail. These clients are generally given a citation in the field to appear in court. When the client appears for arraignment they are ordered by the court to be booked and released from the jail. The pretrial specialists will gather additional information from them, and go over the conditions of their release.

The pretrial specialists currently have 441 clients on their caseload. Clients can be placed on phone or office check ins with varying degrees of frequency. They can also be ordered to participate in urinalysis testing, GPS monitoring and/or alcohol monitoring.

The case management system has a robo-call feature that will call or text the client on their phone to remind them of their next scheduled court appearance. The pretrial specialists maintain this system and enter updated court information.  

Since the pretrial program began October 15, 2018 we have had a total of 1627 clients.  There have been 889 cases closed with a successful outcome and 141 closed as unsuccessful. 

A successful closure is defined as a defendant successfully making it through all court appearances with no incident of failure to appear.

An example of an unsuccessful closure would be if a defendant did not follow through with their court ordered obligations or failed to appear for court.

We also had 129 cases closed for other reasons such as the District Attorney’s office did not file charges or the case was dismissed.

Since the pretrial transition and programming services (TAPS) house on Cottage Street opened in March we have assisted 16 individuals with housing while on pretrial release. 

We have partnered with C.H.A.N.C.E. (Communities Helping Addicts Negotiate Change Effectively) who provide peer mentors to work one on one with our clients in the pretrial TAPS house. They provide a variety of recovery-oriented services and promote greater independence, community integration and recovery from drug, alcohol and mental health related issues. 

The jail has also received overcrowding relief since the pretrial program was integrated. The pretrial specialists are available to provide feedback to the supervisors making release decisions when the jail is overcrowded. The number of inmates released early from jail due to overcrowding while their case was still pending from January of 2018 to June of 2018 was 155, during this same time period in 2019 the jail released 83.

Pretrial efforts are often measured by data, statistics and evidence based best practices. In the short time since our pretrial services program has begun working with clients we have analyzed the different areas we can provide assistance and positively impact the jail, courts and our community. 

In the future, we would like to expand our pretrial housing opportunities to the women we work with. It is our hope we can identify and open a second pretrial TAPS house for females.

Sheriff Landers stated "in just a short amount of time, the amazing success of this program has far exceeded my expectations".  The continued success of this program would not be possible without the partnership and continued support from our local courts, District Attorney's staff and defense counsel.  

###

Prepared by

Marie Gainer

Sergeant

541-265-0717

mgainer@co.lincoln.or.us

Hoopla is a 3-on-3 basketball tournament involving more than 950 teams, 3,500 participants and 700 volunteers. Event information can be found at http://oregonhoopla.com.

Beginning Monday, July 29, at 6 p.m. through Sunday, August 4, at 8 p.m., the following streets in the State Capitol area will be closed for the Hoopla Basketball Tournament:

• Court Street NE between 12th Street NE and Cottage Street NE
• Waverly Street NE between Court Street NE and State Street
• Winter Street NE between Court Street NE and Chemeketa Street NE

Additional streets will be closed beginning Friday, August 2, through Sunday, August 4:

• State Street between Winter Street NE and 12th Street NE beginning at 2 p.m.
• Cottage Street NE between Court Street NE and State Street beginning at 6 p.m.

All streets are expected to be reopened by Sunday, August 4, 2019, at 8 p.m. Drivers should avoid these areas or anticipate delays due to congestion.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Health has lifted the swim beach closure at Vancouver Lake after recent test results showed reduced E. coli bacteria levels. Public Health has also downgraded the algae advisory at the lake from warning to caution. Blooms of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are still present at the lake, but results from recent water samples indicate low levels of toxins in the water.

Vancouver Lake is considered safe for swimmers; however, people and pets should avoid direct contact with lake water in areas of blue-green-colored floating scum.

Public Health closed Vancouver Lake to swimming and wading on Tuesday after routine testing revealed elevated levels of E. coli bacteria in the water. Results from water samples collected Tuesday afternoon showed bacteria levels had dropped below US Environmental Protection Agency guidelines, prompting Public Health to lift the closure.

However, an advisory remains in place at Vancouver Lake for blue-green algae. Public Health issued a warning for the lake on July 12, due to elevated levels of cyanotoxins in the water. Results from water samples collected Monday indicated low levels of toxins in the water.

As long as algae are present, toxin levels could increase as conditions at the lake change. Public Health is advising people to avoid direct contact with water in areas with floating blue-green-colored scum. The toxins produced by blue-green algae can be harmful to people and deadly for small pets.

The warning signs at the lake will be replaced with caution signs, which will remain in place as long as the blue-green algae blooms are present. Public Health will continue to monitor the lake and take weekly water samples to test toxin levels.

Public Health will also continue routine monitoring at Vancouver Lake and the county’s other designated swim beaches – Klineline Pond and Battle Ground Lake – for E. coli bacteria.

Here are some steps swimmers can take to keep themselves and others healthy when enjoying local beaches:

• Rinse off before and after swimming.
• Don’t swim if you’ve had diarrhea or vomiting in the last two weeks.
• Keep children who are not toilet trained and require swim diapers out of unchlorinated water.
• Know where the bathrooms and changing stations are located.
• Take frequent bathroom breaks. Young children should be taken to the bathroom every hour.

Information about current advisories is posted on the Public Health public beaches website.

July 18, 2019

Indictment filed against Antonio Montgomery for recklessly causing the death of two women in SE Portland

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced the filing of an 11-count indictment against 20-year-old Antonio Montgomery for recklessly causing the death of Charlene Hauth and Robin Macready.

The indictment charges Montgomery with two counts of manslaughter in the first degree, five counts of failure to perform the duties of a driver, two counts of assault in the third degree, one count of recklessly endangering another person and one count of criminal trespass.

According to the indictment, on July 8, 2019, Montgomery unlawfully and recklessly, under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to the value of human life, caused the death of Ms. Hauth and Ms. Macready; that he failed to perform the duties of a driver; that he unlawfully and recklessly created a substantial risk of serious physical injury and that he unlawfully and knowingly entered and remained inside a residence in the 4100 block of Southeast 131st Avenue in Portland, Oregon.

This investigation started when Portland Police and officers assigned to its Major Crash Team responded to a multi-vehicle crash at the intersection of Southeast 148th Avenue and Southeast Powell Boulevard. Upon arrival, law enforcement located Ms. Hauth deceased at the scene. Ms. Macready was transported to the hospital with critical injuries but died as a result of her injuries, according to court documents.

According to a probable cause affidavit, Montgomery was driving a black BMW SUV. Near the intersection of Southeast 171st Avenue and Southeast Powell Boulevard, he crashed into another vehicle. After the crash, Montgomery continued driving westbound at a high rate of speed on Southeast Powell Boulevard. He then crashed into the vehicle being driven by Ms. Macready after running a red light, according to court documents.

Upon exiting his vehicle at the intersection of Southeast 148th Avenue and Southeast Powell Boulevard, Montgomery fled the scene. Law enforcement later determined that Montgomery had entered a residence and was found by the occupants hiding in the shower, according to court documents. Police later located Montgomery at a nearby residence and took him into custody.

Montgomery was arraigned on July 18, 2019 at the Multnomah County Justice Center.

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

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

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

July 18, 2019

Michael Amatullo convicted of bias crime for screaming racial slurs and threatening to harm two boys

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced that 61-year-old Michael Amatullo was found guilty on July 17, 2019 of two counts of intimidation in the second degree, two counts of menacing and one count of unlawful use of a weapon after he threatened to harm two boys because of their race.

Intimidation in the second degree is a bias crime in Oregon.

Amatullo was acquitted of one count of unlawful use of a weapon.

This investigation started on December 18, 2018 when Portland Police responded to the 9200-block of Southeast Division Street on reports of a disturbance. Upon arrival, law enforcement contacted two victims, a seven year old boy and a 15 year old boy, both of whom are African American, and learned that their neighbor had used racist language towards both and threatened them with a knife.

During the three-day trial, the state presented evidence to show that the incident started when the seven year old boy walked from his apartment to throw out some trash when Amatullo, who is white, started yelling and screaming at the boy. Amatullo repeatedly used racist language towards the boy.

The boy’s older brother saw the disturbance and stepped in between the two, according to testimony provided at trial.

Amatullo then started screaming racist expletives towards the 15 year old victim.

Fearing for his safety, and the safety of his brother, the 15 year old physically threatened Amatullo, according to trial testimony.

As the shouting continued, Amatullo went inside his apartment, grabbed a kitchen knife, went back to his doorway, and held the knife up at shoulder level as if he was going to stab the 15 year old.

During trial, the state presented evidence that proved Amatullo was about six feet from both victims while armed with the knife.

Both boys ran away and hid under the stairwell of a neighboring apartment.

Two separate 9-1-1 calls were placed, one by the 15 year old boy, the other by Amatullo.

The jury heard the 9-1-1 calls which included Amatullo using racist language to describe the victims.

Upon his arrest, while in the back of a police vehicle, Amatullo used racist and anti-sematic language towards the officer and his family.

Amatullo will be sentenced on August 12, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. with Judge Christopher A. Ramras.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office was an active participant of the Oregon Attorney General’s Hate Crimes Task Force and helped draft the language that is in Senate Bill 577. The new law will rename the offense of “intimidation” to “bias crime,” add gender identity to the list of protected categories and remove the requirement that requires two or more people commit the crime in order to make it a felony.

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

No additional information on State v. Amatullo can be released at this time.

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

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

VANCOUVER, Wash. – The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) has recognized the Port of Vancouver USA with two 2019 Communications Competition awards for exemplary work in video production and community awareness.

The port earned an Award of Distinction for its Public Tours Program, and Award of Merit for “The Innovators”, a video highlighting the port’s efforts to enhance and protect the environment. 

“These awards truly showcase our efforts to educate the public on the good work happening at the port,” said CEO Julianna Marler. “Our public tours are a chance for members of the community to see firsthand all of the economic activity generated here on port property.  And, our video features just a snapshot of the innovative work our environmental team does every day to protect the environment, something we are truly committed to here at the Port of Vancouver.”

Entries in the AAPA Communications Awards Program are judged by an independent panel of experienced communications professionals on situation analysis and research; identification of audience, goals, objectives, strategies and tactics; quality/clarity of content and style; skillful use of copy, photography, design, layout and graphics; and evaluation methods used to determine communication success.  AAPA’s annual Communications Awards Program has recognized excellence in port communications since 1966, with 15 entry classifications ranging from education programs and advertisements to videos and social media.

– POV –

The Port of Vancouver USA is one of the major ports on the Pacific Coast, and its competitive strengths include available land, versatile cargo handling capabilities, vast transportation networks, a skilled labor force and an exceptional level of service to its customers and community. For more information, please visit us at www.portvanusa.com.

For Immediate Release                                                Contact: Courtney Dodds

July 18, 2019                                                               503-274-4483

                                                                                    971-275-2334 (cell)

51k lbs of Bombas Socks Being Delivered to UGM Portland to Help the Homeless

Portland, Ore., - On July 18th between 11am-1pm a donation of Bombas socks will be arriving at the Union Gospel Mission of Portland warehouse at 100 NE Rodney St. Portland on the corner of Farragut and Rodney off Vancouver way.

UGM and Bombas have partnered to provide socks to those in need and experiencing homelessness. This is UGM’s second year partnering with Bombas, last year UGM received 150,000 pairs. This year the shipment will be close to double (approximately 260,000). UGM will distribute the socks in the greater Portland area and to partner organizations through Oregon and SW Washington.

Socks are one of the most requested items by those experiencing homelessness. Wet, dirty socks are not only uncomfortable but can lead to illness and health issues. Bombas is committed to making a difference by donating a pair of socks for every pair purchased.

UGM is committed to loving their neighbor by providing basic life essentials and building relationships to help people find a path out of homelessness.

To learn more about Bombas visit www.bombas.com

If you would like to learn more Union Gospel Mission and how you can help those experiencing homelessness in our community visit www.ugmportland.org.

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

# # #

On July 15, 2019, Beaverton Police detectives arrested 32-year-old Felipe De Jesus Jimenez-Interian on multiple warrants stemming from 2017.

During November 2017, a Washington County Grand Jury heard testimony regarding Mr. Jimenez-Interian sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl.  The Grand Jury indicted Mr. Jimenez-Interian for Rape in the First Degree, two counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree and Sexual Abuse in the Third Degree. 

Before Mr. Jimenez-Interian could be arrested on the Grand Jury charges, he walked away from the Washington County Restitution Center and had not been located by police until July 15, 2019.

Mr. Jimenez-Interian was taken to Washington County Jail on the warrant stemming from the Grand Jury charges and three other arrest warrants. Mr. Jimenez-Interian remains in custody with a bail of 250,000 dollars. 

Beaverton Police detectives are concerned Mr. Jimenez-Interian may have victimized other minors during the time he was evading arrest, between November 2017 and July 2019.  To conceal his identity, Mr. Jimenez-Interian has been known as Julian Parraza, Martin Salgado-Guadarrama and variations of his true name.  If anyone has been victimized by Mr. Jimenez-Interian they are urged to call 503-526-2538 and speak to Detective Maggie Brown. 

##BPD##

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs has announced lower interest rates for its home loan products, effective this week.

The rates for Qualified Veterans Mortgage Bond (QVMB) loan products were lowered by 0.125 percent, while the rates for Unrestricted loan products dropped 0.250 percent. Please see the attached rate sheet for a complete list of pricing options. The rates took effect July 17.

The Oregon Veteran Home Loan Program, which provides the state’s veterans with one of the most unique veteran benefits, has been one of ODVA’s core veteran services since the agency’s inception nearly 75 years ago.

ODVA is a lender and servicer of home loans exclusively for veterans in Oregon and has helped nearly 340,000 veterans secure more than $8 billion in home loans since 1945.  A recent lending limit increase allows veterans to borrow up to $484,350 for a single family, owner-occupied residence in Oregon.

The Oregon Veteran Home Loan is a separate and distinct loan product from the federal VA Home Loan Guarantee benefit.  If you have a federal VA guaranteed mortgage and have any questions regarding potential refunds, please contact your loan servicer or the Regional VA Loan Center at 1-877-827-3702.

To be eligible for this Oregon benefit, a veteran must have served on active duty with the U.S. Armed Forces, as documented on discharge documents (DD-214), and must meet one of the service criteria outlined on ODVA’s website.

For more information about the Oregon Veteran Home Loan and other eligibility requirements, please visit orvethomeloans.com or call the ODVA Home Loan department at 1-888-673-8387.

EARTHQUAKE AND TSUNAMI PREPAREDNESS

Previously, we’ve covered ways you can prepare your family in case of disasters.  This week we want to help you be prepared for two specific disasters that can occur on the Oregon Coast.

Prepare for the Next Quake or Tsunami.  Some people think it is not worth preparing for an earthquake or tsunami because whether you survive or not is up to chance. NOT SO! Most Oregon buildings will survive even a large earthquake, and so will you, especially if you follow these simple response guidelines and start preparing today.

If you know how to recognize the warning signs of a tsunami and understand what to do, you will survive that too, but you need to know what to do ahead of time. Government agencies and other emergency organizations cannot protect you from the next earthquake or tsunami. Even under the best of circumstances, medical aid or fire and law enforcement officials may not be able to reach you for many hours or even days. It is our responsibility as individuals, neighborhoods and communities to reduce risks, to prepare for the critical period immediately after the earthquake, and to make sure that planning for earthquakes and tsunamis has the high priority it deserves. By becoming informed, we can take actions to protect ourselves, reduce losses, and recover quickly.

Earthquake Preparation – Cascadia Subduction Zone or On-Shore Earthquakes

• Anchor and secure heavy appliances, furniture and glass objects to wall studs and/or other furniture items.
• Know how to turn off water, gas and electricity and have the tools needed to do so.
• Tie a bag next to your bed with shoes, extra glasses, gloves, poncho, flashlight or headlamp so you are ready to evacuate once the shaking stops.
• Have a 3-5 day kit in your car in case you need to use it as a place of shelter until the aftershocks subside.

Earthquake Response – If you feel an earthquake

• Drop, cover and hold on until after the shaking stops, then evacuate outside to survey damages to the building.
• If indoors, get under a sturdy table, hold on and be prepared to move with the table.  
• If in bed, stay in the bed and protect your head with a pillow.
• If outdoors, find a clear spot away from buildings and trees and stay until the shaking stops.
• If in a vehicle, pull over to a clear location until shaking stops.
• Expect and be ready for aftershocks that could last for days after the main shock.

Tsunami Preparedness and Response

A tsunami is a series of sea waves, usually caused by a displacement of ocean floor by an undersea earthquake. As tsunamis enter shallow water near land, they increase in height and can cause great loss of life and property damage.

• When at the coast, know the distant and local tsunami evacuation routes for low lying areas; look for educational signs at beach entry areas and tsunami assembly area points.
• A Distant Tsunami will take 4 or more hours to come on shore and you will feel no earthquake. The tsunami will generally be smaller than that from a local earthquake. Typically, there is time for an official warning from our Lincoln County Lincoln Alerts and the National Warning Center to evacuate to safety.
• A Local Tsunami can come on shore within 15-20 minutes after the earthquake before there is time for an official warning from the national warning system. Ground shaking may be the only warning you have, so evacuate quickly to high ground out of the local tsunami zone.
• Do not return until the alert has been canceled and emergency officials have advised that it’s safe to return.

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, Wash. – Drivers in the Mount Vista area should prepare for a full closure of Northeast 159th Street between Northeast 57th Avenue and Northeast 50th Avenue beginning Friday, July 19.

Contractor crews installing sanitary lines in the area noticed erosion and deterioration of the soil beneath the roadway. The closure will allow contractor Tapani Inc., of Battle Ground, to finish the installation of the sanitary lines, stabilize the ground beneath the roadway and repair those portions of the road.

During the closure, local access will be maintained for residents along Northeast 159th throughout the project area. A signed detour will be in place during the closure and will require drivers to use adjacent roads.

Drivers should expect delays in the project area until the closure is complete Friday, July 26.

###

Salem, Ore. — Nicole Utz has been appointed to lead the Salem Housing Authority as its administrator. She was serving as the Interim Administrator for the Housing Authority after Andy Wilch, the previous Administrator, retired earlier this year. Utz has worked in the Salem Housing Authority for 15 years and has experience in nearly every aspect of the organization’s operations.

“I am thrilled that Nicole has agreed to be the Salem Housing Authority Administrator,” says Salem City Manager Steve Powers. “She has the expertise, experience, and passion to guide the housing authority and continue the good work serving those who need housing.”

For 14 years, Utz was the manager for the Salem Housing Authority’s Property Management and Maintenance Department. She also was instrumental in the development and success of the Homeless Rental Assistance Program, and is a driving force for current efforts to build affordable housing that meets the needs of those experiencing mental illness and behaviors associated with chronic homelessness.

About the Salem Housing Authority

The Salem Housing Authority’ mission is to assist low and moderate-income families to achieve self-sufficiency through stable housing, economic opportunity, community investment, and coordination with social service providers. Established in 1969, the Salem Housing Authority serves approximately 9,000 Salem-area residents with safe and affordable rental housing assistance. The Salem Housing Authority is also part of the Emergency Housing Network which brings together hundreds of community partners to network and coordinate with other advocates and agencies serving those who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of experiencing homelessness. Learn more about the Salem Housing Authority by visiting www.salemhousingor.com.

July 15, 2019 - Salem, Ore. –  Both the clerk at Jimmyz Independence Gas & Mini Mart and Michael Baker couldn’t believe what they were reading when they checked the $10 Oregon’s Ultimate Winnings Scratch-it game.

“I scratched it at the store, and I thought I won $75, then $7,500 and saw $75,000 and couldn’t believe it,” Baker said. “I usually buy a few Scratch-its every now and then and I have won like $200 before, nothing like this!”

Baker’s reaction was the same as James Newbeck’s, who is the owner of Jimmyz Independence Gas & Mini Mart.

“My employees called and they kept telling me different amounts that he won,” Newbeck said. “When I came in to check, I realized we had sold a $75,000 ticket!”

Newbeck said he remodeled his gas station and mini-mart about a year ago and has only sold a winning $20,000 Raffle ticket in the past. He also said he hadn’t decided what to do with the $750 from the 1-percent selling bonus that retailers receive when they sell a winning ticket.

“This is the largest ticket we’ve sold,” he said. “We’re a small town so everybody and their brother knows that we sold it. It’s funny, we sold it almost on the anniversary of being done with the remodel.”

Baker said he was going to invest his winnings, which was $51,003 after taxes.

During the 2015-17 biennium, more than $10.9 million in Oregon Lottery proceeds were directed to economic development, parks, education and watershed enhancement in Polk County, where Baker lives and purchased his Scratch-it. Since 1985, Oregon Lottery players have won more than $38 billion in prizes.

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

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned nearly $12 billion for economic development, public education, state parks, veterans services and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org

During the week of July 15 – 19, 2019, Postal Inspectors and law enforcement representatives from the Portland metropolitan area are conducting a comprehensive, community based prevention initiative focused on parcel theft.  The goal of the initiative is to provide prevention, protection, and enforcement activities related to parcel and mail theft during this peak eCommerce season.

From the “you just can’t make this stuff up” file:

July 17, 2019, Keizer, Oregon

Scorpions Visit Keizer Fire District

On duty personnel at Keizer Fire District Headquarters were surprised by a member of the public who brought four live scorpions to the fire station today at 661 Chemawa Road N.E. in Keizer.

After finding the arachnids in a container at Keizer Rapids Park in Keizer, the concerned citizens brought them to the fire station for safety as leaving them in the park near a play area was obviously dangerous to children. 

KFD Fire Chief, Jeff Cowan accepted the scorpions in their container and began a process to determine what was best for all concerned (the scorpions too). #1 was Public Safety, but turning them loose, termination, invasive species, who put them there and why, what do we do with them now, were all considerations. City of Keizer Police, Parks, and staff were notified of the unusual chain of events.

Fire Station personnel had a heyday with their new found “friends” who were now fondly named… Timmy, Lynn, Ted, and Jeramiah.  Chief Cowan contacted the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife who referred him to Oregon Department of Agriculture. Oregon Law has an invasive species act which is handled by the Oregon Department of Agriculture who maintain a staff of professional Entomologists (specialists in the field of insects- pun intended).

Tom Valente, Entomologist, Insect Pest Prevention and Management program, Oregon Department of Agriculture provided the following information:

The species is confirmed as our native Pacific Northwest Forest Scorpion, Uroctonus mordax.  The species is found throughout the valley.  They are nocturnal, and therefore they are uncommonly seen.  They are most often found on south- or west-facing slopes, under rocks or logs on the ground, preferring moister situations.  These are not found in desert conditions.  The species mordax is not aggressive.  Although they can sting (and do sting their prey when hunting), they “play dead” rather than trying to sting when disturbed.

Our scorpions are getting ready to have their photos taken.  Although mordax is not an uncommon species in the valley, we rarely see live specimens.  We’ll get some good portraits.  These will then travel for outreach events like the Oregon State Fair.  As soon as they arrived, people began to have ideas about groups that would be interested as they go on to live the life of a celebrity and good will ambassador.

Thoughts to pass along from our Oregon Entomology Experts:

-Although invertebrates like scorpions, spiders, millipedes, roaches, etc., do make quiet, easy-to-care-for pets or school projects, Oregon has a “white list” of invertebrates approved by the Oregon Department of Agriculture, Insect Pest Prevention and Management program that can be brought into the state without a permit.  Any exotic invertebrate not on the approved list requires a permit to ship into the state.  The approved lists are invertebrates that already occur in the state or those that could not establish outdoors to become pests.  No exotic animal should be released into the wild under any circumstances, because of the risk of introducing disease as well as any risk the exotic itself poses.  The Approved list is on line at < https://www.oregon.gov/oda/programs/ippm/pages/aboutippm.aspx>

-Arachnids like scorpions and spiders attract a lot of attention because of the fear factor.  Oregon has over 500 species of spiders, 3 native species of scorpions, and other spider relatives.  All are predators and all use venom to subdue their prey, but ONLY one species of spider in the state, the Western black widow, Latrodectus hesperis, is medically dangerous to people.  Any arachnid can bite if handled, but our native arachnids are not dangerous.  More information at <https://www.oregon.gov/ODA/programs/IPPM/Pages/OregonSpiders.aspx>.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is accepting applications to fill a second vacancy on the volunteer Planning Commission.

The position is filling a current vacancy, and begins August 1 through December 31, 2019.

The Planning Commission is a seven-member group that makes recommendations to the council on land-use planning, zoning and development in areas outside cities and about issues such as growth management, roads, public facilities, development regulations and applicable county ordinances.

Current applications that have already been submitted for the first vacant position will also be considered for this opening. To apply, please submit a letter of interest and résumé to Alyssa Weyhrauch, Clark County Council, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000. Applications also can be emailed to auch@clark.wa.gov">alyssa.weyhrauch@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, August 9, 2019.

Oregon is served by more than 13,000 career and volunteer firefighters who are members of more than 300 fire departments and fire protection districts across the state. Approximately 80% of Oregon's firefighters are volunteers.

The Fire Training Program at the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) helps support local fire agencies, in every corner of the state, by supporting a variety of training classes.  DPSST also has more than a dozen mobile props that enable firefighters to receive realistic hands-on training. 

One of the most difficult tasks in the fire service is to provide personnel with realistic training to prepare them for field operations. Certainly, providing live-fire training is an important component. For combination and volunteer organizations, especially those in rural areas, the ability to provide live-fire training can be an extremely complex problem.  In the past many fire agencies had access to homes and buildings in their local communities that were going to be demolished that provided excellent hands-on training opportunities for firefighters.  Environmental concerns, neighborhood concerns, building materials, and a variety of other safety considerations have limited this.

This morning, at the City of Salem Fire Department, DPSST unveiled its newest addition of props available to local fire agencies, a 53 foot Mobile Fire Training Unit (MFTU).  The MFTU cost $500,000 and was funded by a Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

This unit contains a permanent propane-fired bed prop and rollover simulator. Portable propane-fired pans can be relocated in the unit and covered with other simulated props to provide a variety of live-fire exercises. The unit’s onboard generator makes it totally self-contained and portable, though an optional shore power connection is available.  

Movable interior wall panels enable instructors to change the layout of the unit to present participants with different scenarios. Several panels have mock doors or other moveable components. The integrated smoke generator creates a dark smoke that forces members to crawl and search in realistic type conditions. The collapsible second story provides the means for performing other essential skills like laddering, vertical ventilation, and multistory fire attack. A few individuals can easily erect the second story in approximately 30 minutes

The MFTU contains numerous safety features to minimize participant risk. For propane fires to function, the operator must step on a control pedal while another instructor engages the portable safety pendant. Release of either immediately shuts the unit down. Temperature and propane sensors force operations to occur within safe limits. Should either exceed the allowable range, the unit automatically shuts down, sounds an alarm, and activates ventilation fans.

On an annual basis DPSST provides training to approximately 6,000 career and volunteer firefighters around the state free of charge thanks to the state's Fire Insurance Premium Tax.

The MFTU will remain at Salem Fire for two additional weeks which will allow Salem firefighters to train use it for training and also enable DPSST staff to run the new unit through its paces before scheduling it for travel to fire stations around the state.

## Background Information on the DPSST ##

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

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

Thousands of people will take to the streets of Downtown Hillsboro this Saturday, July 20, for the 15th Annual Celebrate Hillsboro, presented by Tuality Healthcare!

The event features: 

• Live music and entertainment on 3 stages
• Arts and culture
• Games, crafts, and kids’ activities
• FREE health screenings
• Fire trucks and police cars
• Rock climbing wall
• Juggling tent
• Inflatable fun zone
• Saturday Farmers’ Market
• Local food and beverages (beer & wine)

New this year, the 15th Birthday Bash at 4 pm on the Civic Center Plaza features Mayor Steve Callaway and others sharing free ice cream treats.

At 4:30 pm, the free after-hours concert kicks off with cover band Dancehall Days, followed at 6:30 pm by Kalimba: The Spirit of Earth, Wind & Fire.

View the Celebrate Hillsboro 2019 Event Guide and Music & Entertainment Schedule.

Map and Locations

• View and print the Celebrate Hillsboro map. 

Main Street

• Saturday Farmers’ Market 8 am – 4 pm
• Community Booths
• Local Food
• Beer and Wine
• Youth Stage at Main & Third Avenue

Civic Center Plaza

• Main Stage presented by Port of Portland
• Sequoia Art Marketplace 10 am – 6 pm
• Beer and Wine 11 am – 8 pm

Courthouse Lawn

• Multicultural Arts
• Culture Stage
• Infatable Fun Zone
• Rock Climbing Wall
• Juggling Tent

Second Avenue

• Free Health Screenings
• Fire Trucks and Police Cars
• Healthy Living Booths

Music and Entertainment Schedule

Musicians, roving stilt walkers, magicians, and jugglers will entertain on the streets of Downtown Hillsboro all day. 

Celebrate Hillsboro has become a pinnacle summer event since it began in 2005.

Presented by Tuality Healthcare, Hillsboro’s signature event celebrates its 15th Anniversary this year, bringing the community together to rejoice in our thriving city. To commemorate the anniversary, Celebrate Hillsboro has shifted its focus to highlight Hillsboro’s rich cultural diversity. The festival will come alive to honor the collective stories of Hillsboro’s diverse voices, past and present, sharing culturally significant music, food, art, and performance throughout the day.

The Cultural Village on the courthouse lawn will provide hands-on culturally based experiences, with demos, displays, and activities by Salon Amrapali, Matereva Enterprises, Hula Halau ‘Ohana Holo’oko’a, Filipino American Friendship Club of Oregon, and Ballet Papalotl. The lawn will also host the juggling tent and the inflatable fun zone—a returning favorites for kids and families.

New this year, local ethnic groups will share traditional creative expressions from across the globe on the Cultural Stage, including everything from Pre-Columbian music and dance with Huehca Omeyocan to Celtic music by Crimson and Clover to Polynesian dance by Paradise of Samoa—and much more!

Another new addition this year, Tom Hughes Civic Center Plaza will transform into the living room of Celebrate Hillsboro, featuring an all-day world music stage, unique eats and drinks, and beer garden, along with shade tents to cool off from the summer heat and the fountain turned up to keep children and families wet and wild. Head inside the Civic Center to shop the first-ever Sequoia Art Marketplace with artisans displaying and selling unique, one-of-a-kind works of art from 10 am – 6 pm.

Partner booths, dining and shopping options, and the Farmers’ Market will fill the streets from 1st to 3rd Avenues and from Lincoln to Washington Streets. The Health & Wellness area returns to 2nd Avenue to offer free health screenings and will include vital information to promote community health and safety. Sustainability will still remain a theme for the event, with booths and activities focused on preserving the environment throughout. At the end of Main Street at 3rd Avenue, the Youth Stage returns, promoting young, promising musicians in our community.

This year, Celebrate Hillsboro is also expanding into the evening hours. After a full day of enjoying diverse cultural experiences, Celebrate Hillsboro “After Hours” will begin at 4:30 pm with an evening of free music on the Main Stage at the Tom Hughes Civic Center Plaza. The concert kicks off with the wildly popular female-led cover band, Dancehall Days, at 4:30 pm, and ends with Kalimba, The Spirit of Earth, Wind & Fire, at 6:30 pm. Grab dinner, a glass of beer or wine, and dance the night away as the sun slowly sets over Hillsboro.

With more than 12,000 families, children, and businesses anticipated to attend, this year’s festival is set to be an amazing day of cultural experience, family fun, and community connection.

For more details about this year’s event, visit Hillsboro-Oregon.gov/Celebrate.

On Monday, July 15, 2019, Oregon State Police Detectives from the Salem Area Command arrested James Allen Moore (80) on one count of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree.

The arrest stemmed from an incident that occurred in early June, when Moore sexually abused a 9 year old female, who was known to him. 

Moore was actively involved with his church, where he worked with children for decades in the Willamette Valley. With his involvement with children, OSP is concerned there could be more victims. If you have any information regarding Moore, please contact the Oregon State Police Northern Command Center at OSP or 1-800-442-0776 and reference Detective Ian McKay.

PORTLAND, Ore.—U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams announced today that Robert Arnold Koester, 52, a photographer from Yamhill County, Oregon, has been charged with six counts of production of child pornography.

According to the indictment, beginning in January 2015, Koester is alleged to have knowingly coerced six minor victims in Oregon to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct.

Koester is a suspected serial sexual predator who took nude photos of models and is alleged to have sexually assaulted many of these models, some of whom are minors. Koester, also known as Bert Kay, Rhake Winter, and Qitooly, has potentially been engaging in these criminal acts since 1994, continuing until his initial arrest in Carlsbad, California, on November 13, 2018.

Koester faces dozens of additional state and federal charges for related criminal conduct in Yamhill County and Carlsbad. On November 15, 2018, Koester was charged in San Diego County Superior Court with six felony counts involving sex crimes against minors. A week later, 35 additional related state charges were added. On February 6, 2019, Koester was charged with 32 related felony charges in Yamhill County Circuit Court. And finally, on March 7, 2019, Koester was charged in a two-count criminal information with production of child pornography by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of California.

Federal law enforcement officials across the country have been working closely with local law enforcement in Carlsbad, Yamhill County and elsewhere to identify potential victims in this case. The FBI has created an online system to collect victim information.

If you have information about this ongoing investigation or believe you or someone you know may have been victimized by Koester, the FBI requests that you complete this secure, confidential online questionnaire. Information and tips from the public may also be submitted confidentially via email to modelcase@fbi.gov.

Identified victims may be eligible for certain services and rights under federal and/or state law. More information is available at fbi.gov/modelcase.

This case was investigated by the FBI in Portland and San Diego, the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office and the Carlsbad Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Ravi Sinha, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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

# # #

Strong safety efforts lead to return of paid premium.

-----

The Associated General Contractors Oregon-Columbia Chapter (AGC) and SAIF announced today a payout of more than $7.6 million for the 641 companies who participated in the AGC/SAIF group workers’ compensation program during 2017–2018. This includes a $4,442,062 retrospective return—representing a 12.8% return of paid premiums during the policy year—and adjustments from the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) assessment and non-disabling claim reimbursements.

These are remarkable results for any industry, but particularly in the construction industry, where increasing construction activity and a continued shortage of qualified workers have presented unique challenges this year.

The retro return is an indicator of the commitment to worker safety that the participating companies have made. Program participants—employers and employees alike—must remain vigilant and focused on their safety efforts. Individual results and retro checks will be mailed directly from SAIF to policyholders in mid-August.

The retro return combined with the impressive 15% upfront premium discount savings offered to participants creates a total combined savings this year of 27.8%. A retro return has been paid to AGC members in 26 of the past 27 years. Total retro returns spanning the 27-year history for the AGC/SAIF program now surpass $193 million.

“These results demonstrate once again that safety does pay dividends. Our primary goal is to create and maintain a safety culture that encourages and rewards people to constantly be safe and productive on the jobsite,” said Mike Salsgiver, Oregon-Columbia Chapter executive director. “It is imperative that we create safer workplaces, reduce workplace injuries and illnesses, save lives, and save money.”

The retro return is based on the safety performance of all group members throughout the plan year (10/1/17—9/30/18), so it is truly a team effort. A retro return is earned by performing better than expected as a group over the course of the year. Employers in the program make investments and commitments to safety and training. Employees carry out the work, using safe work practices and behaviors. And industry professionals from SAIF, AGC, and agent brokers work diligently to train and educate, manage claims costs, and help injured workers get back to work.

“We are proud this program has served as an incentive to bolster workplace safety in this industry,” said Christy Witzke, vice president of marketing, sales, and communication at SAIF. “The real beneficiaries are the workers that go home safe and healthy each day.”

About AGC

For nearly 100 years, the AGC Oregon-Columbia Chapter has been the premier professional association for contractors in Oregon and SW Washington, representing the best of the best in commercial construction. Together we’re setting the bar for quality and safety. We’re committed to enhancing the performance of our members, representing their interests, and building a better climate for construction.

About SAIF

SAIF is Oregon's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurance company. Since 1914, we've been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.

NEWS RELEASE – for immediate release

Media Contact:

Ken Armstrong, Communications Manager, 503-881-2623, ken.armstrong@state.or.us                      

July 17, 2019

Oregon DSL installs signage at Swan Island beaches announcing public use restrictions for camping, campfires

SALEM, Ore. – In response to the State Land Board’s direction last month to initiate a rulemaking imposing permanent use restrictions at certain beaches in the Portland area, the Oregon Department of State Lands on July 1 implemented temporary restrictions, which include placing signs on the subject properties advising the public about the restrictions.

On June 11, the State Land Board directed the Oregon Department of State Lands to pursue permanent use restrictions on the easterly banks of the Willamette River at Swan Island within the city of Portland.

The action comes as a result of a request from the Port of Portland and Daimler Trucks North America (a tenant of the port) that DSL enact restrictions on public use due to illegal and nuisance activity. The port is an upland owner adjacent to state property, which extends to Ordinary High Water. The department and the port have documented illegal and nuisance activities on state-owned lands, and which include:

• Littering and dumping
• Reckless burning and open fires
• Damage to property

Temporary restrictions prohibit all activity between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. and prohibit campsites and campfires at all times on the east bank of the Willamette River between river miles 9 and 10 in Multnomah County.

In the meantime, DSL will begin the process of initiating permanent restrictions by convening a Rulemaking Advisory Committee to review and provide input on the proposed rules. A public comment period will be part of that process. More information on the rulemaking process will be available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dsl/Laws/Pages/Rulemaking.aspx

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www.oregon.gov/dsl

JOHN DAY, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is working with CO Fire Aviation, an aerial resource vendor, to test the effectiveness and safety of nighttime use of Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATs) to fight wildfires in Oregon.

Exploratory testing started Monday night, July 15, at the John Day Airport, and continued Tuesday night. On Wednesday and Thursday nights, testing will transition from the airport to private lands protected by ODF’s John Day Unit in Grant County. ODF and CO Fire Aviation are coordinating with local emergency personnel and dispatch centers to provide current information on the operation.

This testing evaluates the feasibility of using advanced night vision technology to identify firefighters  and any hazards on the ground. Testing operations include on-the-ground firefighters communicating with the pilot via radio, using lights and lasers to identify drop areas. Information gathered during the testing will be used to determine whether night SEAT operations would be a viable tool.

“ODF consistently evaluates advances in technology to support our mission to safely suppress wildfires at the smallest size possible,” ODF State Aviation Manager Neal Laugle said. “Safety is first and foremost, which is why exploratory testing like this is so important. Using SEATs at night would allow firefighters to take advantage of the reduced fire activity typical in the evening hours. These aviation resources could support ground firefighters by slowing the fire’s spread and intensity.” 

Outcomes of this testing phase will determine the next steps in evaluating the potential use of this innovative technology.

###

LEBANON, Ore. – The Oregon Recreational Trails Advisory Council (ORTAC) will meet 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Aug. 1 at the Samaritan Community Hospital, Health Career and Training Center, Conference Room 3, 525 N Santiam Hwy, Lebanon. The meeting is open to the public.

The agenda includes presentations from local trail advocates and land managers about trail projects and initiatives.

View the agenda online: oregon.gov/oprd/Trail_Programs_Services/Documents/082019ORTACAgenda.pdf.

ORTAC was established by the Legislature in 1971 to advise Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) and its partners in the development and promotion of high quality non-motorized trail systems throughout Oregon.

The council is made up of seven volunteer members representing the five congressional districts and two coastal representatives. Members are appointed by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission. The council holds quarterly meetings in different locations across the state.

For more information about ORTAC, visit oregon.gov/OPRD/Trail_Programs_Services/Pages/Advisory-Committees.aspx

The meeting location is ADA accessible. Individuals who need special accommodations to attend should contact Jodi Bellefeuille at 503-986-0716 or ellefeuille@oregon.gov">jodi.bellefeuille@oregon.gov at least three days in advance.

                                                  BBB TEAMS UP WITH EXPEDIA GROUP TO WARN CONSUMERS

A network of scammers is using Expedia Group’s name to take consumers for thousands of dollars. Better Business Bureau serving the Northwest and Pacific has received several reports in just the past several days from consumers who’ve lost as much as $3,700.

Expedia is a BBB Accredited Business with an A+ rating. In a statement, the Bellevue, Washington-based company said, “We are happy to team up with the BBB to educate people about this scam and share tips on how they can protect themselves.”

The scam begins when consumers search online, then call customer service numbers purporting to be Expedia. Customers ask the representative to confirm or change existing reservations they’ve made through the Expedia travel site. But instead of legitimate Expedia reps, they are calling phone numbers used by impostors. The impostors say their refund site isn’t working properly and the consumer needs to purchase gift cards in order to receive a refund or change bookings.

Consumers reporting this scam hail from 17 different states and Canada, and, together, report losing nearly $10,000.  One woman told BBB that the scammer kept telling her to, “purchase (additional) gift cards saying that he had to merge the cards together,” but not to worry as she, “was going to be well reimbursed.” Several customers say the fake customer service rep stayed with them on their cell phones while they purchased the gift cards.

That’s what happened when BBBNW+P contacted one of the phony numbers and listened as the impostor tried to convince us we needed to buy gift cards, giving us a convoluted explanation of how we would get a refund.

Expedia Group’s statement continues, “Our goal is always to ensure travelers have a seamless and trouble-free booking experience with us, and it’s incredibly unfortunate that scammers have disrupted our customers’ well-deserved vacations and travel plans. Rest assured that we are also working hard to identify ways to prevent this from happening in the future.”  

Expedia Group is taking steps to counteract these impostors, including working with popular search engines to reduce the occurrence of fake ads, making its customer service contact number more visible, and adding info about these scams to its customer service portal.

BBBNW+P offers the following tips for consumers to protect themselves:

• Most trustworthy companies will never demand a gift card as any form of payment and consumers should never have to pay to get money back.
• Using a search engine does not guarantee getting the correct number. Always go directly to a website to find contact information. Large companies often have a ‘Contact Us’ button or a help hotline number directly on their webpage.
• Protect personal information. Be cautious when connecting to public Wi-Fi and never use it for online banking or entering personal or financial information.

###?? 

ABOUT BBB:?For more than 100 years, the Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands,?and?charities they can trust. In 2017, people turned to BBB more than 160 million times for BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.2 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at?bbb.org. There are local, independent BBBs across the United States, Canada,?and?Mexico, including BBB Northwest & Pacific, which serves more than 15 million consumers in Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Montana, Hawaii and Western Wyoming.??? 

Clackamas -- Today, AARP announced the awardees for its 2019 AARP Community Challenge grant program, including three recipients  in Oregon.  A total of nearly $1.6 million will be distributed to fund 159 “quick action” projects across the country, helping communities make immediate improvements and jumpstart long-term progress to support residents of all ages.

“AARP Community Challenge Grants fund projects that can inspire change in areas such as transportation, open spaces, housing, smart cities and more, said AARP State Director Ruby Haughton-Pitts. “It’s exciting to see the creative ways cities and nonprofits can use some seed money to enliven their communities.” The Oregon winners include the cities of Salem and Talent and the nonprofit Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon.

Oregon Grantees

Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon will engage elders in Portland’s Jade District and teach them to use technology to increase mobility and connect to community resources. The Jade District is one of the most diverse census tracts in the city and a low-income neighborhood.

“Elders in our community face difficulties in technology and language access to our transit system. We do this program to help and support. They deserve to be empowered and have access to reliable safe transportation” said Wanna Lei, Community Organizer.

City of Salem and Center 50+ will hold “Downtown Pop-Up Summer Programming” that will foster positive interactions among people of all ages and abilities with free, inter-generational classes that are open to the public.

“This creative new ‘pop up classes’ collaboration in our downtown shopping district is the latest in this exciting project,” with Center 50+ said Salem Mayor Chuck Bennett.

Talent Maker City will create innovative programs to include older adults in intergenerational learning opportunities. Building on City of Talent's status as an officially designated "Bee City," the program will have a fun pollinator theme and support proliferation of and interest in pollinator gardens in the city.

"We are thrilled to have AARP's generous support of our inclusive effort to cultivate an age-friendly community in Talent through hands-on creativity." Ryan Wilcoxson, Executive Director.

Nearly 1,700 Community Challenge Grant applications were received from non-profits and government entities for the program, now in its third year. The full list of grantees can be found at www.aarp.org/communitychallenge.

The Community Challenge grant program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative which helps communities become great places to live for residents of all ages. As part of this, AARP staff and volunteers are working across the country, engaging and mobilizing residents, delivering technical assistance and expertise to local leaders and organizations, and supporting the work of the 381 communities and four states that have enrolled in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities.  

# # #

About AARP

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Update

Fiona Belden has been located and is safe.

The Vancouver Police Department is requesting assistance in locating a missing 12 year old girl, Fiona Belden . Fiona was last seen in the area of NE 31st Street and NE 146th Ave in Vancouver Washington around 0900 or 1000 A.M. . She is a white female, 5 foot 7 inches tall and weighs approximately 175 lbs. She has Blonde hair and Blue eyes. Her clothing is unknown.

If found please contact your Local Police Agency or the Vancouver Police Department through 911 or 311.

With the conclusion of the 2019 Oregon Legislative Session, the City of Sherwood was recently allocated $2 million in state lottery funds to help provide improved pedestrian connections across State Highway 99W near the site of the new Sherwood High School currently under construction.  State Representative Courtney Neron (House District 26) worked closely with Mayor Keith Mays to help identify the funding during this past session.  “Sherwood is known for its excellent schools and being one of the safest communities in Oregon,” stated Representative Neron.  “The investments we make now will keep the community connected and maintain those values as Sherwood grows.  I advocated to fund the construction of this pedestrian bridge because it will do just: keep students safe as they cross from their neighborhood to their new high school in Sherwood West.  I am thrilled to be part of the team bringing this project to life in our district and grateful we secured this critical investment from the state.”

Improving safety and access along this state highway is a City Council priority and this state funding will help build upon the initial feasibility study that is currently being conducted by the City to identify options to address this important linkage need.  In addition to the new high school being constructed in the Sherwood West area, future growth of the Sherwood community is expected to take place in the areas west of Elwert Road and Highway 99. Linking the current neighborhoods south of Highway 99 to these future neighborhoods is a critical component to the ongoing success of the Sherwood community. “I want to thank the Oregon Legislature and Governor Brown for their support of this important Sherwood project.  Soon after being elected, our State Rep. Courtney Neron agreed with Sherwood City Council that it was important to remove future students and families from this highway crossing and made it a priority of hers to help us find support from the state,” said Mayor Keith Mays. “My big audacious goal is to have this grade separated crossing open for the community by fall 2021.  Sherwood can leverage these dollars to secure the additional funding needed for the project–a final dollar amount that should be determined by the end of 2019.”

Hello Stations,

On our Facebook page I just loaded video and sound bites from our Recognition Ceremony tonight at Clark County Fire District 6.

https://www.facebook.com/ClarkCountyFireDistrict6/

The point of the ceremony is to say thank you to all the first responders who were involved in a daring river rescue last May 4th on the Washougal River.

Besides a police officer from Washougal PD and a Firefighter from Camas Washougal, members of the Clark County Technical Rescue Team helped extricate the survivor from rocks and debris in Washougal’s “Bid Eddy” stretch of the river.

Tonight we said thanks to our members who also serve on the TRT, which consists of firefighters and paramedics from CCFD6, Vancouver Fire, Clark Fire and Rescue, and others.

On the FB video you will see cover b-roll plus (pretty hot audio—sorry!) from :

Chief Kristan Maurer/Clark County Fire District 6

Firefighter Chris McBride/Vancouver Fire

Firefighter Tony Lothspeich/Clark County Fire District 6

Thank you for any and all coverage you provide. We couldn’t share the word without your help!

Dave

The Vancouver Police Department is requesting assistance in locating a missing 12 year old girl, Michelle Wheeler. Michelle was last seen in the area of SE 34th Street and SE 192nd Ave in Vancouver Washington around4 pm. She is 5 foot 2 inches tall and weighs approximately 100 lbs. She has Brown hair and Brown eyes. She is wearing a Black and White Grass Valley Elementary school shirt, Black stretch pants with Black /Light Pink tennis shoes. Although she is pictured with glasses she may not be wearing them.

If found please contact your Local Police Agency or the Vancouver Police Department through 911 or 311.

UPDATE

Michelle Wheeler has been found safe. Thank you to all that assisted.

On Saturday, September 7, 2019, Canby Area Transit (CAT) will kick off a new Saturday service on both the Route 99X and the Dial-A-Ride services. Based on the 2017 Transit Master Plan and the outcome of public outreach efforts in June of 2018 Saturday service was identified as the next priority for implementation.

The new Saturday services will be funded with transit funding created by Oregon House Bill 2017. The bill established a public transportation payroll tax that collects 1/10 of 1% tax on employee wages. The new funding source is referred to as the Statewide Transit Improvement Fund (STIF).

The City of Canby is seeking community input regarding the proposed Saturday services. We encourage everyone to attend a public meeting:

August 1, 2019

7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Canby Civic Center

Willamette Room (1st floor)

222 NE 2nd Avenue

Canby, OR 97013

The proposed Saturday service for the CAT Route 99X will operate between Oregon and Woodburn via Canby between 8:00 am and 6:30 pm. The CAT Paratransit and General Public Dial-A-Ride program will operate within the Canby Urban Growth Boundary during the same hours. Paratransit service to Oregon City will be limited to TriMet LIFT transfers on Saturdays. More information including the proposed Route 99X schedule is available online at www.canbyareatransit.org and will be available in paper format on the buses and at the CAT office. If you would like to help distribute the proposed schedule and/or the meeting notice please contact us at 503.266.0751 or email cat@canbyoregon.gov.

English to Spanish interpretation is provided at all Transit Advisory Committee meetings and will be provided at the meeting on August 1, 2019.

All documents are available in alternative formats upon request.  

On July 16th, at approximately 1:23 pm emergency personnel were dispatched to a single engine plane reported to have crashed into a farm field.  When deputies arrived, the plane was fully engulfed in flames.

The pilot told deputies while flying from the Albany area to the Aurora Airport he experienced mechanical issues which led to the plane catching fire mid-flight.  The pilot made an emergency landing into the farm field and was able to walk away from the crash with non-life threatening injuries.

The pilot has been identified as Eugene Mitchell, 73, of Portland.  Mr. Mitchell is a military veteran, with flying experience dating back to Vietnam.  Mr. Mitchell was taken to a local hospital for his injuries where he was treated and released.

Emergency services from Aumsville Fire District, Marion County Fire District #1 and an ambulance from Santiam Hospital all responded to the scene to provide assistance.

The Sheriff's Office does not anticipate releasing any additional information regarding this incident.

This afternoon at approximately 1:23 pm, emergency services were dispatched to an air craft crash into a field in the area of Jordan St SE and Howell Prairie Rd SE in Marion County.  When deputies arrived on scene, the single engine plane was fully engulfed in flames.  The pilot was able to get out of the plane after making an emergency landing into a farm field.

The pilot told deputies he was forced to make an emergency landing in the field after his plane caught fire in the air after experiencing mechanical issues.  The pilot was taken to an area hospital by ambulance for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. 

The pilot was the sole occupant of the plane and there are no other reported injuries as a result of the crash.  The Federal Aviation Administration and National Traffic Safety Board have been notified of the crash.

SALEM, OR - Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is excited to announce funding awards of $45,569,423 to build and preserve 636 homes through the awards of federal 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credits, HOME, and National Housing Trust Fund resources, which leverage local, state, and private investments. Eleven developments were approved by the Oregon Housing Stability Council to receive funding.

“No Oregonian should worry about having a safe, stable place to sleep,” said Governor Kate Brown. “Families need homes that are more than just four walls and a roof, with rents that don’t mean choosing which bill to pay or what to do without this month. I am grateful that these resources will allow 636 families to rest easy in an affordable home.”

This latest round of awards brings OHCS to a record number of homes in the development pipeline – more than 9,800 affordable homes are in progress across the state. Oregon’s Statewide Housing Plan (oregon.gov/ohcs/pages/oshp.aspx) set a five-year goal to triple the development pipeline of affordable rental housing up to 25,000 homes.

“This is a big step toward meeting the ambitious goals of the Statewide Housing Plan,” said OHCS Director Margaret Salazar. “These developments bring us that much closer to closing the affordable rental housing gap and reducing housing cost burden for Oregonians.”

The developments that received awards are listed below, with full details available online: www.oregon.gov/ohcs/DO/docs/07-12-2019-Affordable-Housing-Awards.pdf.

• Applegate Landing in Lebanon, 36 homes
• Bridge Meadows in Redmond, 40 homes
• Carnelian Place & Phoenix Crossing in Bend, 71 homes
• Colonia Paz I in Lebanon, 24 homes
• Going 42 in Portland, 55 homes
• The Mary Ann in Beaverton, 54 homes
• Oregon City Terrace in Oregon City, 48 homes
• Patriot Heights in Stanfield, 53 homes
• River Road Affordable Housing in Eugene, 60 homes
• Rogue Valley Apartments in White City and Eagle Point, 76 homes
• Rose Bowl in Portland, 71 homes
• Snowberry Brook II in Ashland, 71 homes
   

This afternoon Marion County Sheriff Joe Kast hosted the summer swearing in ceremony for new Sheriff’s Office employees.  During today’s ceremony, 14 employees were sworn in as deputy sheriffs and four more were recognized as they joined the Sheriff’s Office in non-sworn roles.  Community Corrections Commander Jeff Wood was promoted and sworn in as Undersheriff.

Undersheriff Wood began his career in 1994 as a Corrections Specialist with the Marion County Department of Corrections and has over 25 years of experience in the juvenile and adult correctional fields.  Appointed by the Marion County Sheriff as a division commander in March 2009, Wood holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Oregon and has earned his Executive Certification from the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training.

During his tenure with the Sheriff’s Office, Undersheriff Wood has received extensive training in evidence-based practices and has implemented a number of programs within the Community Corrections Division.  Undersheriff Wood has regularly provided legislative testimony on issues pertaining to sex offender supervision, registration, electronic monitoring, transition and reentry, and community corrections funding.  Wood just completed a two-year term as President of the Oregon Community Corrections Director’s Association, currently serves as Chair of the Marion County Justice Reinvestment Council, sits on the Governor’s Reentry Council, and Oregon’s Corrections Forecast Committee.

Sheriff Kast thanked the family and friends who were in attendance to support their loved ones, stating “This job is challenging and rewarding.  However, this can’t be done without the love and support shown by the family and friends behind each of these new members of our office.”

Detectives are releasing the attached composite sketch of the suspect in attempted child abduction last month. The three-year old’s aunt saw the suspect leading the child away from their apartment in Aloha, Oregon. 

Anyone who recognizes the individual in the sketch is asked to contact detectives at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at 503 846-2700.

Attempted Child Abduction Reported in Aloha

On Sunday, June 16, 2019, at 7:50 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the report of an attempted child abduction in the 15600 block of SW Blanton Street in Aloha. When deputies arrived, they contacted family members of a three-year-old child.

The family members reported they were enjoying a family gathering when they realized they hadn’t seen the boy for about five minutes. When they went looking for him, they saw him being led away by the arm by an unknown Caucasian male in his thirties. Family members yelled for the child and the man released the boy, unharmed, before running west on SW Blanton Street. The boy’s father chased the man on foot, but lost him. Deputies also searched the area and did not locate the suspect.

Other witnesses saw an unknown African-American man in the area at the same time. He ran off when the other man did and his involvement in the abduction attempt was uncertain. Deputies contacted a man matching the description and arrested him on an unrelated warrant.

Detectives would like to speak to anyone who has information that could assist this investigation. Please contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at 503-846-2700.

July 16, 2019

Jared Walter sentenced to 364 days in jail, 5 years of probation for subjecting two women to offensive physical contact on TriMet

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced that following lengthy pretrial negotiations 32-year-old Jared Walter changed his plea in Multnomah County Circuit Court and received a sentence that includes jail time, probation and the requirement to undergo mental health and sex offender treatment.

Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Ryan accepted the guilty plea and convicted Walter of two counts of interfering with public transportation and two counts of harassment. Walter received 364 days in jail and five years of probation.

Walter was charged with quickly and lightly touching the side of one victim’s chest under her arm and the upper thigh of a second victim. One of the victims told police that she felt a man, later identified as Walter, sitting close to her. She inched forward to create separation. Shortly thereafter, the woman told police that she felt the man’s hand touching her upper thigh through her coat pocket. The woman told police she believed Walter was attempting to steal a lighter in her pocket so she stood up and activated the train’s emergency call button.

The other woman told police that the touching was so innocuous in the moment that she was initially unaware of it being a suspicious act. She only realized it may have been criminal after she saw a post about Walter’s arrest on social media and became concerned. 

Both women agree with the plea agreement and the decision to dismiss the previously charged counts of sexual abuse in the third degree, a Class A misdemeanor, in light of the sentence imposed by the court.

“I support the resolution because of the protection measures that are going to be in place. I am thankful for all of the work that everybody has done to get this case taken care of. I’m thankful for the ban [Walter] has on TriMet, and the stipulations in place that say he can’t go near platforms. That all makes me feel good because I still rely on public transportation. I actually feel more comfortable now because we don’t have to go to trial,” one of the victim’s said.

“This was a carefully negotiated case that took into account many different factors. We worked very closely with the victims, Transit Police Division and TriMet management to determine whether or not resolving this case was appropriate. Everyone involved in this case supports this highly structured plea agreement that holds Mr. Walter accountable. The ultimate goal of this sentence is to effect a change in behavior and to ensure the safety of our community,” said Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Eric Zimmerman, who prosecuted this case.

Walter, who is already a registered sex offender, must continue to adhere to the lifetime TriMet exclusion, which was imposed in April. It was ordered that he not trespass on TriMet property without the permission of the Court, his probation officer and TriMet. Furthermore, Walter is not allowed to loiter within 50 feet of any TriMet stop or station.

If, while on probation, he has inappropriate contact either verbal or physical, with any TriMet employee or patron, Walter could be found in violation of his probation. If he violates any part of his probation, the court can impose up to an additional two years in jail.

Upon his release from jail, the court has agreed to conduct regular judicial reviews with Walter. During these reviews, the probation officer will provide detailed updates on Walter’s status on supervision.

Walter has agreed to write an apology letter to all of the victims associated with this case. Neither victim wants media contact.

If determined to be appropriate, Walter’s probation officer can order GPS monitoring and geographical restrictions.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office recognizes the Transit Police Division, the Portland Police Bureau, and TriMet for their dedicated efforts investigating this case.

#MCDA#

Contact: Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Phone: 503.988.6567

Email: Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

On July 11, 2019 a Beaverton Police officer was involved in an officer involved shooting. The shooting took place near SW West Slope Drive/SW 83rd Ave.

The officer involved was 16-year veteran, Beaverton Police Department Detective Tom Stewart.  Detective Stewart remains on critical incident leave as the investigation continues.

Beaverton Police are still searching for 20-year-old Calvin Ramone Davenport, in connection with this incident.  Mr. Davenport is wanted for Attempted Assault in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon (vehicle), Attempt to Elude (felony) and Promoting Prostitution.  Mr. Davenport is described as 5’9” tall, dark hair and 130 pounds.

If you see Mr. Davenport please call 911. If you just have information regarding Mr. Davenport’s whereabouts please call non-emergency dispatch, at 503-629-0111.

##BPD##

On July 16th at 12:30 AM Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of a one vehicle traffic crash on Drift Creek Road at Gorton Road, just east of Lincoln City.  Deputies discovered the vehicle, a silver 2011 Jeep Patriot bearing Oregon plate 164 FJW, was completely submerged in the water.  The North Lincoln Fire Department Rescue Swim Team was able to confirm there were no occupants in the car and no one was found at the scene.  The investigation revealed that the vehicle was eastbound when it left the roadway and sheared off a utility pole knocking out power and other utilities to the area.   The lines could not be cleared nor the vehicle removed from the river until about 8:00 AM this morning then power and utilities were restored.

Deputies continue to investigate the crash to identify the driver.

###

Respectfully Submitted by:

Mark Meister, Administrative Patrol Sergeant

Lincoln County Sheriff's Office

225 W. Olive St.

Newport, Oregon 97365

Phone: 541-265-0684

Fax: 541-265-4917

mmeister@co.lincoln.or.us

July 16, 2019

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

CCO Metrics and Scoring Committee to meet July 19

What: The regular public meeting of the Oregon Health Authority’s CCO Metrics and Scoring Committee.

Agenda: Welcome, consent agenda, and general updates; public testimony; follow-up to questions from June meeting; select 2020 measure set; adjourn.

When: July 19, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Five Oak Building (formerly Lincoln) (421 SW Oak St, Portland, OR, 97204) Suite 775, Transformation Training Room. The public also may join remotely via webinar and listen-only conference line at 888-204-5984, access code 1277166.

For more information, please visit the committee's website.

# # #

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

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

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

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet in Salem on July 24 at 9 a.m. This month’s meeting agenda includes:

• A presentation on activities of the Committee for Family Forestlands and discussion of key issues and future policy needs.
• An update on the 2019 fire season.
• Testimony from the Forest Trust Lands Advisory Committee.
• Consideration of and determination on the petition for Forest Practices Act rulemaking on protection requirements for coho salmon resource sites.
• An update on the department’s current fiscal and budgetary status.

The meeting will be held in the Tillamook Room, Administration Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St., in Salem. The meeting is open to the public, with the exception of the executive session scheduled from 11 a.m. until noon.

Public comment will be accepted on agenda topics and at the start of the meeting for topics not on the agenda. Written comments may be submitted to oardofforestry@oregon.gov">Boardofforestry@oregon.gov in advance of the meeting. A livestream option and meeting materials are available online at https://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Board/Pages/BOFMeetings.aspx.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200.

###

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. More information about the Board is available at: www.oregon.gov/ODF/Board/Pages/AboutBOF.aspx.

For Immediate Release                                        

July 15th, 2019

Contact:                Chris Enquist
                             503-378-2309

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Parole & Probation Officer Firearms Training Revision Workgroup will hold a regular meeting on July 30th, 2019 from 11:00a-2:00p.  The meeting will be held in room A235 at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem, Oregon. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the deaf or hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made before the meeting by calling the contact listed above. 

Agenda Items:

1. Welcome
2. Review of History of Firearms Training for Parole Officers
3. Discussion of Scope of Revision
4. Review of Staff Recommendations
5. Discussion and Decision on September Pilot Program
6. Workgroup Goals and Future Tasks
7. Conclusion

Administrative Announcement

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

UPDATE (Tuesday, July 14) -- DECEASED ID

Please reference CCSO Case # 19-016190

The man who died as result of the July 12 collision can now be identified as Gregory Edwin Frogner, 65, of Milwaukie.

Mr. Frogner had been operating the 2006 Ram truck. He had one passenger with him, identified as Nicole Lee Cereghino, 43, of Oregon City. Cereghino sustained non-life threatening injuries and was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

The driver of the 2015 Mercedes sedan was a 17-year-old male. He had two 17-year-old male passengers in the car with him. All three juveniles were transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Frogner had been travelling southwest on SW Stafford Rd. when he was struck by the Mercedes, which had been travelling northbound on SW Newland Rd. SW Newland Rd has a posted stop sign at that intersection.

This case is still under investigation. No further information will be released at this time.

EARLIER (Friday, July 12)

On July 12, 2019 at 3:35 p.m. deputies from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of roll-over vehicle collision in the area of SW Stafford Rd and SW Newland Rd, near Tualatin, OR. As result of the crash, one vehicle collided with a utility pole and powerlines were down.

The collision involved a pick-up truck and a sedan. One person was confirmed to be deceased when first responders arrived.  There were four others injured as result of this crash.  All four of the injured were transported to area hospitals, one with life-threatening injuries.

Investigators are on scene conducting a thorough investigation.  The Clackamas County Criminal Reconstructionist and Forensic Technicians Team (CRAFT) is on scene collecting evidence.  At this point, impairment is not believed to be a factor in this crash. 

Multiple agencies responded to this incident to include, Clackamas County deputies assigned to the City of Wilsonville, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Clackamas County Medical Examiner’s Office, Oregon City Police, the Clackamas County Road Department and PG&E. 

SW Stafford Road is expected to be closed at this location until at least 7:00 p.m.

None of the names of the involved parties will be released at this time as this is still an active investigation.

TIPS SOUGHT

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office Tip Line -- by phone at 503-723-4949 or by using the online tip form at https://web3.clackamas.us/contact/tip.jsp . Please reference CCSO Case # 19-016190.

[END]

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Health is closing Vancouver Lake to swimmers due to elevated levels of E. coli bacteria detected during routine testing. Some E. coli bacteria can cause serious gastrointestinal illness if water is accidentally swallowed. 

Due to the elevated bacteria levels, Public Health is closing the lake to swimming and wading. People who fish at the lake should take precautions to avoid water contact.

“It’s especially important to keep children out of the lake because they are more likely than adults to swallow some of the water,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County health officer and Public Health director.

Closure signs are being posted at Vancouver Lake today after water samples taken from the lake on Monday showed elevated levels of E. coli bacteria. Public Health will continue to regularly monitor water quality at the Vancouver Lake.

The closure will remain in effect until tests show that E. coli bacteria levels do not exceed state and US Environmental Protection Agency guidelines. Public Health will advise the public when water contact is considered safe again. Test results and information about current advisories are posted on the Public Health public beaches website.

Public Health also has a blue-green algae warning in place for Vancouver Lake, due to elevated cyanotoxins in the water. Public Health is advising people to avoid direct contact with all lake water.

Vancouver Lake Regional Park remains open. Water in park restrooms and shelters is not affected by lake water and remains safe to drink.

Park visitors may continue to fish in the lake but should thoroughly clean all fish and equipment. Fish should be cooked before eaten. Anyone having contact with water in Vancouver Lake should wash hands with soap and water.

Information about E. coli

E. coli is a common kind of bacteria that lives in the intestines of animals and people. The presence of E. coli in Vancouver Lake water indicates that the water may contain bacteria found in animal or human feces. Some of these bacteria are capable of causing severe gastrointestinal illness.

Depending on the cause, people with gastrointestinal infections may experience fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea beginning several hours to several days or longer after exposure. Some infections may cause bloody diarrhea.

People who experience bloody diarrhea or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms should call their physician or other health care provider.

On Tuesday, July 16, 2019, at 8:06 am, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to an armed robbery that had just occurred near the Rock Creek Apartments. While on the way to the call, deputies found out the suspect was riding a blue Honda sport bike and left the area on the bike. Deputies searched the area but did not locate the suspect.

Deputies learned the suspect and victim initially met online using the app “LetGo” where they were communicating about purchasing a car. When the suspect arrived on the motorcycle, he pulled a gun out and robbed the victim of his backpack and its contents.

Deputies quickly found out the suspect, Aaron Lara, who used his real name when communicating with the victim and even told the victim his nickname: “Chief.”

Deputies recognized the nickname and were able to identify Lara. Deputies drove to the suspect's house located in the City of Cornelius and located the blue motorcycle in the driveway. A search warrant was executed by the Washington County Tactical Negotiation Team, and Lara was located in the home.

Lara was arrested for Robbery in the first degree among other crimes.

Attached is an old mug shot of Aaron from June 2018. His new mug shot will be available later today when he is lodged at Washington County Jail.

On Tuesday, July 16, 2019, at 8:06 am, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to an armed robbery that had just occurred near the Rock Creek Apartments. While on the way to the call, deputies found out the suspect was riding a blue Honda sport bike and left the area on the bike. Deputies searched the area but did not locate the suspect.

Deputies learned the suspect and victim initially met online using the app “LetGo” where they were communicating about purchasing a car. When the suspect arrived on the motorcycle, he pulled a gun out and robbed the victim of his backpack and its contents.

Deputies quickly found out the suspect, Aaron Lara, who used his real name when communicating with the victim and even told the victim his nickname: “Chief.”

Deputies recognized the nickname and were able to identify Lara. Deputies drove to the suspect's house located in the City of Cornelius and located the blue motorcycle in the driveway. A search warrant was executed by the Washington County Tactical Negotiation Team, and Lara was located in the home.

Lara was arrested for Robbery in the first degree among other crimes.

Attached is an old mug shot of Aaron from June 2018. His new mug shot will be available later today when he is lodged at Washington County Jail.

Linn County Sheriff Jim Yon reports his deputies are investigating a single vehicle crash that occurred July 15, at about 11:37 p.m., on Three Lakes Road south of Grand Prairie Road near Albany.

The sole occupant of a 1986 Toyota Supra was a 15- year- old male from Albany.  The driver, who did not have a driver’s license, was north bound on Three Lakes Road south of Grand Prairie Road and failed to negotiate a curve.  The driver was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Evidence at the scene and witness statements indicate speed was a factor in the crash.  It does not appear alcohol or drugs were a factor in the crash.     

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Albany Fire Department.

The case remains under investigation.

UPDATE: Mary Tice has been located.

Thanks to everyone who sent tips!

EARLIER:

Please reference CCSO Case # 19-016483

The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help as it searches for missing endangered adult Mary Tice, 70.

Ms. Tice left her home on foot at about 1:45 a.m. this morning (Tuesday, July 16) in the area of SE Fuller Road and SE Michael. She is unfamiliar with the area, and will be unable to find her way home due to cognitive memory issues. She is in need of medication.

Mary Tice is described as follows:

• White female
• 70 years old
• Blond/white hair
• 125 pounds
• 5'6" tall
• Hazel eyes
• Last seen wearing jeans, a white hoodie and brown clogs, while carrying a significant amount of art supplies.

A photo of Mary Tice is attached.

If you see Mary Tice, call or text 911. If you have information on her whereabouts, call the Sheriff's Office ASAP at 503-655-8211. Please reference CCSO Case # 19-016483.

[END]

For Immediate Release                                                Contact: Courtney Dodds

July 16, 2019                                                               503-274-4483

                                                                                    971-275-2334 (cell)

Union Gospel Mission Opening Temporary Overnight Shelter in Downtown Portland

Portland, Ore., - On July 7th Union Gospel Mission opened their doors for overnight shelter for up to 40 individuals who are experiencing homelessness. 

The Joint Office of Homeless Services for Multnomah County asked UGM to provide overnight shelter this summer at the downtown facility on Third and Burnside due to partial, temporary closures at other agencies. The shelter will be open every night for the next three to six weeks.

“We are happy to do our best to do our part when there is a seasonal need. And we will keep working for long-term solutions,” says Executive Director Bill Russell. “We believe that caring for people experiencing homelessness leads to building trust and connections that allow us to coach people to a better life.”

The Mission could use donations of blankets, they can be dropped off at 3 NW Third Avenue in Portland. Financial donations to support the overnight shelter can be made online at www.ugmportland.org, or by calling 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 program for men, women and children. Contact Union Gospel Mission at 503-274-4483 or ugmportland.org and @ugmpdx.

# # #

Kelly Fitzpatrick, director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, will hold her first veterans’ town hall meeting in Pendleton next week.

“I really look forward to this opportunity to meet members of the eastern Oregon veteran community and learn about the concerns, issues and challenges facing veterans and their families in this part of the state,” Fitzpatrick said.

She will also answer questions and share the latest updates regarding ODVA programs and initiatives, as well as veteran-related developments from the 2019 legislative session.

The Veterans’ Town Hall event will begin at 6 p.m. Friday, July 26, at the Pendleton Convention Center. It will also be recorded and livestreamed on the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ Facebook page for the benefit of those who are not able to attend in person.

The following day, and in the same location, ODVA and over 60 partnering organizations and agencies will be joining together for the Fifth Annual Veteran Benefit Expo, the state’s largest veteran resource event, which is being held in eastern Oregon for the first time.

The purpose of the Expo is to provide a one-stop shop for Oregon veterans of all eras and walks of life to learn about and access the full range of their earned benefits. The event will offer resources from many different benefit areas, including health care, claims assistance, finance, home loans, long-term care, mental health, education, business and recreation.

The Expo is free and requires no pre-registration. The event will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 27 at the Pendleton Convention Center.

For more information about the Expo, visit www.expo.oregondva.com. 

Due to unsafe mold levels found at the Lincoln County Animal Shelter, the building has been closed to the public indefinitely.

Results from mold testing were submitted on Monday, July 15 showing toxic levels of dangerous mold in all areas of the shelter. While the building has been in disrepair for some time, it has reached a state where it is unsafe for people and animals. Remediation efforts have already begun. Staff are caring for animals utilizing personal protective equipment, and they are also working out of the emergency trailer parked in front of the Animal Shelter.

At this time, Lincoln County Animal Shelter staff are coordinating with regional shelters to transfer animals to different locations. The shelter will continue to rely on foster homes to help care for animals and encourages anyone interested in fostering to submit an application through their website at LincolnCountyAnimalShelter.org.

 “We know how important the Animal Shelter is to our community, and it is a priority for us to identify the best solution for a new shelter. It is our goal to continue to provide as many services as possible, give the animals the best standard of care, and ensure the safety of our community's people and animals,” shared Sheriff Landers.

Discussions have taken place over the past few years about where to best locate a new animal shelter building. Planning for emergency short-term and long-term solutions are taking place, and the county is open to ideas from the community. While plans are still unfolding about how to best provide services while keeping staff, animals, and the public safe, Animal Shelter Director Laura Braxling is available to answer questions regarding the closure and future plans at 541-265-0725 and raxling@co.lincoln.or.us" target="_blank">lbraxling@co.lincoln.or.us.

Respectfully Submitted,

Laura Braxling

Director, Lincoln County Animal Shelter

EUGENE, Ore.—Dannie Kay Alston, 67, was sentenced today to 110 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release for robbing four Oregon and Southwest Washington banks in a four-week period beginning in August 2017. Alston has no known permanent residence.

On February 21, 2019, Alston pleaded guilty in federal court to the following bank robberies:

1. August 7, 2017; Chase Bank in Vancouver, Washington; collecting $2,300
2. August 15, 2017; Wells Fargo Bank in Medford, Oregon; collecting $4,690
3. August 24, 2017; Wells Fargo Bank in Salem, Oregon; collecting $1,317
4. September 9, 2017; First Interstate Bank in Roseburg, Oregon; collecting $3,441

In each of his robberies, Alston attempted to disguise his identity by wearing sunglasses and some type of ball or ski cap. He communicated with the targeted bank tellers primarily through handwritten notes or signs. At his last robbery, in Roseburg, witnesses were able to provide a description of Alston’s getaway vehicle, leading to his quick arrest by the Oregon State Police. Police recovered the note used in the Roseburg robbery, a starter’s pistol with loaded caps, a Taser, sunglasses, wig and $3,441 cash from Alston’s person and vehicle.

Alston is a career offender with a criminal history spanning five decades and four states. He has previous burglary convictions in California and Texas, robbery convictions in California, Florida and Oregon, as well as assault, theft and narcotics convictions.

During sentencing, U.S. District Court Judge Michael J. McShane ordered Alston to pay $11,748 in restitution.

This case was investigated by the FBI, Clark County Washington Sheriff’s Office, Medford Police Department, Oregon State Police and Roseburg Police Department. It was prosecuted by Pamela Paaso, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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

# # #

UPDATE: Suspect identified. We thank you for your help.

Tualatin Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the male shown in the attached picture.  On July 15, 2019, the male suspect stole a white 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee (OR – 730JUB) from the Bay Club parking lot, located at 18120 SW Lower Boones Ferry Road.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Tualatin Police at 503-691-4800 and reference case #19-9802. Individuals who wish to remain anonymous can call the tip-line at 503-691-0285.

No further information at this time.

https://bit.ly/2JKDxUv

SALEM, Ore. – With relatively favorable early fire season conditions, last week the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) sent personnel to Alaska to assist with wildfire suppression. ODF leadership selected personnel from areas where current conditions and available resources allow for the opportunity to send help to our Alaskan partners while ensuring capacity to respond to any local fires on the home front.

As partners in the Northwest Compact — an agreement allowing quick and cost-effective resources sharing across state and international lines — Oregon and Alaska have helped one another in years past. Most recently, crews from Alaska provided assistance on both the Klondike and Taylor fires during the 2018 fire season.

The Alaska deployment offers unique firefighting challenges and training opportunities, such as working on the permafrost, avoiding conflicts with local wildlife, and the need for helicopter rides for personnel to remote fire camps. While this experience may differ from typical fires in Oregon, the objective is familiar for ODF crews: safely put fires out while they are small. Given ODF strives to safely put fires out at 10 acres or less 98 percent of the time, the focus on initial attack is a familiar one for these skilled firefighters.

“These ODF crews were selected from across the state for their skill and experience with initial attack, as well as the availability and conditions back home. Our folks are not assigned to a large fire up here, but are relieving exhausted personnel engaged in continuing efforts to catch new fire starts while they are small. As part of Oregon’s complete and coordinated system, and the Northwest Compact, this is what ODF is all about,” said ODF’s Jamie Paul, serving as the Agency Representative for ODF resources in Alaska. “We are happy the timing allows us to assist our interagency Alaskan partners in their time of need.”

With 8 overhead positions and 20 initial attack crew members, ODF has a total of 28 personnel currently engaged in Alaska. As crews prioritize initial attack efforts and minimize the long-term impact on resources, overhead positions are helping oversee operations.  A maximum duration of the standard 14-day assignment is expected, while some resources will head home as early as next week.

Consisting of 5 U.S. states; Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana, the NW Compact also includes the 5 Canadian Provinces/Territories of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories.

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July 16, 2019

65 count sex crimes indictment filed in Multnomah County Circuit Court

Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill announced the filing of a 65-count indictment against 52-year-old Jose Luiz Monje-Reyez.

The indictment charges Monje-Reyez with 43 counts of sexual abuse in the fist degree, 13 counts of sodomy in the first degree, five counts of unlawful sexual penetration in the first degree and four counts of rape in the first degree. 

It is alleged that the abuse involved one female victim, and that the abuse occurred in Multnomah County from when she was nine years old through her early teen years. 

The indictment further alleges that Monje-Reyez used forcible compulsion on the victim to commit some of the alleged sex crimes.

Law enforcement located Monje-Reyez on July 11, 2019 in Milwaukie, Oregon and took him into custody.

He appeared in Multnomah County Circuit Court on July 12, 2019. On that same day, a grand jury convened and subsequently returned an indictment. 

Monje-Reyez is scheduled to appear in court at the Multnomah County Justice Center on July 22, 2019 for an arraignment on the indictment. 

The victim and her family do not want media contact. The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office requests that media respect their privacy. 

This case is being investigated by the Portland Police Bureau’s Sex Crimes Unit in cooperation with the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. 

The case is being litigated by Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Melissa Marrero.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime. Monje-Reyez is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. 

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

#MCDA#

Brent Weisberg
Communications Director 
Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office
503.988.6567
Email: Brent.Weisberg@mcda.us

Girl Scouts of the USA Launches 42 New Badges to Mobilize Girls to Change the World

By exploring topics like high adventure in the outdoors, coding, space science, and more, girls take control of their own leadership experiences. 

July 16, 2019—Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) today reveals 42 new badges exclusively for girls in grades K–12 that allow them to make their own choices about how they want to experience and influence the world. The badges enhance the organization’s existing girl-led programming, offering girls everything from adventuring in the snow or mountains to learning how to use coding to solve problems they care about. Girl Scout programming has long promoted independent decision making, which helps girls develop agency, challenge themselves to move beyond their comfort zones, and build confidence in their leadership abilities.

Among the 42 new offerings are Outdoor High Adventure badges that feature, for the first time in Girl Scouts’ history, two distinct activity options, letting girls choose how they want to earn each badge. Giving girls choices is important for developing their sense of self, their own voice, and gender equality—research from the World Bank Group shows that increasing women’s agency and decision-making abilities is key to improving their lives, communities, and the world. And research shows that Girl Scouts are more likely than other girls to take an active role in decision making (80% vs. 51%).

In addition to existing badge offerings, girls in grades 6–12 can now pursue:

• Nine Cybersecurity badges, through which girls learn about the inner workings of computer technology and cybersecurity and apply concepts of safety and protection to the technology they use every day. Activities range from decrypting and encrypting messages, to learning proper protection methods for devices, to exploring real-world hacking scenarios (funded by Palo Alto Networks).
   
• Three Space Science badges, through which girls explore topics such as the universe and their place in it, properties of light, and inspiring careers in space science (funded by NASA’s Science Mission Directorate and led by the SETI Institute).
   
• Think Like a Citizen Scientist, a Girl Scout Leadership Journey during which girls participate in interactive activities to practice observation techniques; collect data; and share their findings with real-world scientists through an online network. As with all of Girl Scouts’ Leadership Journeys, girls use their newly honed skills to take action on a community issue of their choosing (funded by Johnson & Johnson and The Coca-Cola Foundation).
   
• To prepare girls in grades 6–12 to pursue computer science careers, Girl Scouts will launch the organization’s first Cyber Challenge events in select areas this fall. At these events, which will take place October 19, girls will learn crucial cybersecurity skills by completing challenges such as running traceroutes and identifying phishing schemes (funded by Raytheon).

The new programming for girls in grades K–12 includes:

• 12 Outdoor High Adventure badges, designed for girls to explore nature and experience exciting outdoor adventures like backpacking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, rock climbing, and tree climbing—giving them the confidence to support one another, take healthy risks, and spend dedicated time in nature. These are the first Girl Scout badges that members can earn by choosing one of two self-directed paths (funded by The North Face). 
   
• 18 Coding for Good badges, which not only teach girls the basics of coding but also detail how every stage of the coding process provides girls with opportunities to use their skills for good. Girls will learn about algorithms through age-appropriate, creative activities, such as coding positive memes to spread a message about a cause they care about, designing a digital game to educate people about an issue, and developing an app to promote healthy habits. Every Coding for Good badge includes a plugged-in and unplugged version, so that all girls can learn the foundations of coding, regardless of their access to technology (funded by AT&T and Dell Technologies).

“Girl Scouts has ignited the power and potential of girls for over a century, and we are committed to ensuring that today’s girls are the future of American leadership,” said GSUSA CEO Sylvia Acevedo. “Girl Scouts is where girls can explore new subjects, discover their passions, learn to take smart risks, and become their best, most confident selves—whether they want to become a NASA astronaut, an entrepreneur, a rock climber, a coder, or a cybersecurity agent.” 

GSUSA works with top organizations in fields that interest today’s girls. Combined with Girl Scouts’ expertise in girl leadership, these organizations and specialists advise and weigh in on content to provide the most cutting-edge programming available to girls. Content collaborators include codeSpark, the National Integrated Cyber Education Research Center (NICERC), SciStarter, and Vidcode. In true girl-led fashion, girls also tested the new offerings.

At Girl Scouts she’ll discover who she is, what she’s passionate about, and what she wants to achieve—both today and in the future. Join or volunteer at www.girlscouts.org/join.

###

We're Girl Scouts of the USA
We're 2.5 million strong—more than 1.7 million girls and 750,000 adults who believe in the power of every G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)™ to change the world. Our extraordinary journey began more than 100 years ago with the original G.I.R.L., Juliette Gordon “Daisy” Low. On March 12, 1912, in Savannah, Georgia, she organized the very first Girl Scout troop, and every year since, we’ve honored her vision and legacy, building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. We’re the preeminent leadership development organization for girls. And with programs from coast to coast and across the globe, Girl Scouts offers every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure, and success. To volunteer, reconnect, donate, or join, visit www.girlscouts.org.

“Reaching for the Stars: NASA Science for Girl Scouts” is based upon work supported by NASA Science under cooperative agreement No. NNX16AB90A. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

About Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington

In partnership with more than 8,000 adult members, Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington prepares 14,500 girls in grades K-12 for a lifetime of leadership, adventure and success. GSOSW’s programs in civic engagement, financial literacy, the outdoors and STEM serve girls in 37 counties in Oregon, and Clark, Klickitat and Skamania counties in Southwest Washington. The Girl Scout mission is to build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. For more information, please visit girlscoutsosw.org.

National Night Out is August 6th

You can show support for your community and Law Enforcement by switching out your regular porch light with a blue light bulb.

The Sandy Police Department has a limited supply of blue LED bulbs for sale.  Come to the Business Office on the 2nd floor, Monday thru Thursday between 8:00am and 6:00pm.  Blue bulbs are $5. (Cash only please).

Show your support and light up the City with blue lights on every street.  Which Sandy neighborhood will be the most "Blue"?

The PeaceHealth Southwest Foundation’s Health Career Scholarship Program recently awarded $33,000 in scholarships to 17 students for the 2019-2020 school year. The Scholarship Program provides continuing education scholarship opportunities for PeaceHealth Southwest caregivers and volunteers who are studying to become healthcare professionals. Recipients include PeaceHealth Southwest and PeaceHealth Medical Group caregivers, and PeaceHealth Southwest volunteers.

The Health Career Scholarship Program is funded through donations from PeaceHealth caregivers and volunteers, our generous community, the Jack and Nancy Barry Endowment, and the Sarina Slaid memorial scholarship. 

Award winners:

• Yoo Sang Ahn, an adult volunteer, received a $2,500 scholarship and is a pre-med student.
• Jocelin Bibian, a junior volunteer, received a $2,000 scholarship and is majoring in nursing.
• Darian Bonk, a caregiver, received a $2,000 scholarship and is a pre-med student.
• Alexis Bullard, a caregiver, received a $1,000 scholarship and is studying to become a nurse practitioner with an emphasis on adult gerontology.
• Isabel Gutierrez-Johnson, a caregiver, received a $1,000 scholarship and is getting her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
• Hannah Han, an adult volunteer, received a $1,750 scholarship and is studying to become a pharmacist.
• Lilly Kovalenko, an adult volunteer, received a $2,000 scholarship and is majoring in nursing.
• Ryan Kwon, a junior volunteer, received a $2,500 scholarship and is a pre-med student.
• Juliah Larson, a caregiver, received a $2,000 scholarship and is majoring in nursing.  
• Tatyana Molchanova, a caregiver, received a $2,000 scholarship and is pursuing her post-graduate Master of FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner).
• Sari Munoz, a caregiver, received a $2,000 scholarship, and is studying to become a physician’s assistant.
• Hieu Nguyen, a caregiver, received a $1,000 scholarship and is pursuing a Bachelor of Sciences in Nursing degree.
• Nicole Nugent, a junior volunteer, received $4,500 in scholarships which includes the Sarina Slaid Scholarship for $3,000 and Health Career Scholarship for $1,500. Nicole is pursuing a degree in public health.
• Anthony Phung, an adult volunteer, received a $1,000 scholarship and is a premed student.
• Irina Panova-Proctor, a caregiver, received a $1,750 scholarship and is pursuing a Bachelor of Sciences in Nursing degree.
• Ahmed Sheeti, an adult volunteer, received a $2,000 scholarship and is a pre-med student.
• Leayn VanDeven, a caregiver, received a $2,000 scholarship and is studying to become a nurse practitioner.

In Photo:
Front row: L-R: Nicole Nugent, Lilly Kovalenko
Middle row: L-R: Isabel Gutierrez-Johnson, Juliah Larson, Ryan Kwon
Last Row: L-R: Leayn VanDeven, Sari Munoz, Ahmed Sheeti

About the PeaceHealth Southwest Foundation
The PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center Foundation is a privately chartered nonprofit corporation, founded in 1983 with the sole purpose of attracting, managing and disbursing charitable gifts made for the benefit of PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center. The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors who has fiduciary and legal responsibility for its operations. The Board of Directors, which is made up of donors and friends of the Medical Center, assists the Foundation in carrying out its fundraising, gift processing, investment and disbursement responsibilities. For more information visit www.peacehealth.org/foundation/sw-washington

See Attached Bulletin

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

•Traffic Stops

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

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

National Night Out is quickly approaching!

In partnership with the National Association of Town Watch, the Keizer Police Department will co-sponsor National Night Out on Tuesday, August 6, 2019, from 6:00PM to 9:00PM. National Night Out is an annual event that takes place on the first Tuesday of August every year wherein neighborhoods organize block parties to socialize, share neighborhood news, and exchange contact information. The objective of National Night Out is to build stronger, safer communities by promoting communication among neighbors and with their local police department.

Residents are encouraged to contact their neighbors to begin planning their block party. Every neighborhood is unique; some block parties may be large and take place in a nearby park, while others may be small enough to fit in a single driveway. Officers and other personnel from the Keizer Police Department will be traveling throughout Keizer to visit all of the block parties that are registered with the department. The locations of the block parties will also be shared with the Keizer Fire District and Marion County Fire District #1.

To register a block party, visit www.keizer.org/national-night-out-2019 or complete a registration form in the Keizer Police Department lobby at 930 Chemawa Rd. NE Keizer OR, 97303.

Questions should be directed to Community Outreach Specialist Dorothy Diehl at 503-856-3472 or diehld@keizer.org.

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate 4.1 Percent in June 

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.1 percent in June, essentially unchanged from 4.2 percent in May. Oregon’s unemployment rate has been between 4.0 percent and 4.4 percent for 32 months, dating back to November 2016. The U.S. unemployment rate was little changed at 3.7 percent in June.

Oregon’s unemployment rate has been at or near record low levels for nearly three years. Of those unemployed in June, nearly half were either new or returning to the labor force. At 46.9 percent, the share of unemployed who were entrants was the highest since May 1999. Another 38.5 percent were unemployed due to a job loss. The remaining 14.7 percent had voluntarily left their previous job and were looking for work.

In June, Oregon’s total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 900 jobs. The jobs gain in June followed a revised loss of 200 jobs in May. Monthly gains for June were strongest in professional and business services, which added 1,200 jobs, and in manufacturing, which added 900 jobs. Two industries with large losses in June were leisure and hospitality (-1,000 jobs) and retail trade (-900 jobs). Other sectors were close to their usual seasonal pattern of job gains or losses for June.

Looking at longer-term trends, Oregon’s economy continued to grow rapidly. Since June 2018, total nonfarm payroll employment was up 46,100 jobs, or 2.4 percent. Oregon’s job growth rate over the past 12 months was faster than the U.S. job growth rate of 1.5 percent.

The most rapid gains over the past year were in transportation, warehousing, and utilities (+4,500 jobs, or 6.9%) and construction (+7,100 jobs, or 6.8%). Job gains were widespread, with three other major industries each adding between 2.6 percent and 3.7 percent to their jobs base in the past 12 months. These industries were manufacturing (+7,100 jobs, or 3.7%), professional and business services (+8,800 jobs, or 3.5%), and health care and social assistance (+6,800 jobs, or 2.6%). During that time, none of the major industries cut a substantial number of jobs, although three industries showed little change: retail trade; financial activities; and mining and logging.

Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the June county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Tuesday, July 23rd, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for July on Tuesday, August 13th.

Notes:
All numbers in the above narrative are seasonally adjusted.

The Oregon Employment Department and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) work cooperatively to develop and publish monthly Oregon payroll employment and labor force data. The estimates of monthly job gains and losses are based on a survey of businesses. The estimates of unemployment are based on a survey of households and other sources.

The Oregon Employment Department publishes payroll employment estimates that are revised quarterly by using employment counts from employer unemployment insurance tax records. All department publications use this Official Oregon Series data unless noted otherwise. This month’s release incorporates the October, November and December 2018 tax records data. The department continues to make the original nonfarm payroll employment series available; these data are produced by the BLS.

The PDF version of the news release, including tables and graphs, can be found at www.QualityInfo.org/press-release. To obtain the data in other formats such as in Excel, visit www.QualityInfo.org, then within the top banner, select Economic Data, then choose LAUS or CES. To request the press release as a Word document, contact the person shown at the top of this press release.

For help finding jobs and training resources, visit one of the state's WorkSource Oregon centers or go to: www.WorkSourceOregon.org.

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.

Welcome to the Oregon FBI’s Tech Tuesday segment.  This week: building a digital defense against the “one-ring” telephone scam.

It seems like most of us get those annoying calls from telemarketers and scammers these days. Your phone rings and rings and rings. Often, these are calls come from a lovely robotic voice informing you that you “missed an important payment.” Or, perhaps, the voice on the other end of the line is congratulating you on that “expense-free vacation” that you just won. In both scenarios, the scammer will try to get you to pay money to settle the non-existent debt or to pay for a small processing fee for that free trip. Later you discover later that you were taken.

While these kinds of telephone scams are not new, our friends at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) are warning the public about a new variation that is popping up across the nation. It’s called the “one-ring” scam. Here’s how it works: you get a phone call from a number you do not recognize, and then the call drops after only one or two rings. The fraudster is counting on your curiosity – and maybe fear that the call you missed is really important. The goal is to get you to call the number back because, in reality, the scammer is calling from an international toll number. If you call back, you will likely receive per-minute toll charges ... and who do you think collects those funds? You are right if you guessed the scam artist.

So what can you do to avoid being a victim of this scam?

• Do NOT call back numbers that you do not recognize, especially those that appear to come from overseas.
• If you have received these calls, report the number to the FTC at www.donotcall.gov
• Frequently check your phone bill for unusual or suspicious charges

As always, if you have been a victim of an online scam, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or call your local FBI office.

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DREAD, SHOCK and ex-AWE-stion: Tips on crisis pre-planning, initial response and sustained scheduling

Your agency has a crisis response plan. But can you follow it? Do you even know where it is? This presentation leads you through the steps to turn that dusty old book into a live, flexible template—and provides you practical tips on how to use it when the stuff actually hits the fan.

Thursday evening July 18 from 5:30 pm to 8 pm, the Oregon chapter of the Public Relations Society of America will present a two-hour workshop on planning for, responding to and surviving a crisis.

DREAD, SHOCK and ex-AWE-stion breaks down crisis planning and response into discrete actionable steps to help you perform at the level you need to lead your team—meeting your mission.

Former ODOT assistant communications manager and spokesperson Dave Thompson, APR has 40 years’ experience covering or responding to crises. Dave spent 20 years as a TV News reporter/producer/anchor, where he reported from Bosnia and Croatia during the war in the early 1990s; reported from Romania after the overthrow of Ceausescu; reported from not only school shootings but also elementary school bombings and coal mine collapses with miners trapped inside.

Dave spent 20 more years in public relations dealing with crises and tough questions almost daily. Dave co-opened the Information Center for the Bakken crude oil train fire derailment and fire in Mosier, Oregon in 2016; he helped open Multnomah County’s Information Center for the Columbia Gorge’s Eagle Creek fire in 2017. And Dave co-managed Oregon’s multi-agency coordination joint information center during the 2017 total solar eclipse, supporting a dozen local information centers around Oregon for six days before, during and after the eclipse.

You’ll learn:

·How to plan for disaster—by “slicing your bread many ways with many knives” (Dave actually brings the bread and the knives…)

·How to prioritize the kinds of crisis that could hit your agency

·How to identify the most common types of crisis most plans never plan for

·How to get off the dime when disaster hits—because you WILL be frozen

·How to create sustainable schedules for limited staff—before you need them

·How to set up coordinated schedules for different kinds of workers working different hours—that can be sustained over long periods

The presentation begins with networking at 5:30 pm Thursday July 18 at ODOT’s Portland headquarters, the newly-named Matthew L. Garrett building, 123 NW Flanders St., Portland, 97209, on the corner of NW Flanders and NW 2nd Ave.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dread-shock-ex-awe-stion-tips-on-crisis-planning-with-dave-thompson-apr-tickets-64030544081

On Monday, July 15, 2019 at approximately 10:30 P.M. Oregon State Police and emergency personnel responded to a single vehicle crash on Hwy 101 near milepost 279.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2003 Yamaha Motorcycle, operated by Robert Killough (52) of Bandon, OR. was traveling south on Hwy 101 when it left the roadway and crashed.

Killough sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Oregon State Police was assisted by the Coos County Sheriff's Department, Bandon Police Department, Bandon Fire Department, Bay Cities Ambulance, and ODOT.

The Fire-Up Bootcamp will kick off its first ever camp this weekend, which is designed to introduce women on basic firefighting techniques, tool identification, health and fitness strategies as well as provide a unique networking opportunity for those attending. The two-day camp runs on July 20th and 21st at the Gaston Fire District, which is located at 102 E. Main St in Gaston. The public is welcome to watch, and limited seating will be available. The camp will provide a unique look into what it takes to become a volunteer or career firefighter for those 18 years of age and older.

The boot camp will train 16 women on several aspects of firefighting which will include using hydraulic tools to cut up cars, deploy hose lines to extinguish a live fire, practice carrying & raising ladders, connecting to fire hydrants, tool identification & use and much more. Additionally, camp attendees will learn about critical health and fitness strategies to ensure long term success in their personal and professional lives.  

This is the first year of the camp which is being hosted by the Gaston Fire District, Forest Grove Fire & Rescue and Cornelius Fire Department. Additionally, Hillsboro Fire & Rescue and Clackamas Fire District #1 are providing sponsorship and support to make this event a success. The female instructors that are assisting come from several local and out of the area fire departments such as Estacada, Camas-Washougal, Clark County Fire District #6, Tacoma, and Los Angeles City Fire. Some of these instructors started in the fire service in Western Washington County.

For more information on the Fire-Up Bootcamp, please visit www.fireupbootcamp.com.

The City of Hillsboro has selected Niki Iverson as Hillsboro’s next Water Department Director and General Manager for the Joint Water Commission (JWC). She officially began her new roles on June 28, 2019.

Iverson has served as the City of Hillsboro Water Department’s Water Resources Manager since 2007. Overseeing the Department’s natural resource assets, her areas of responsibilities included water rights, water quality monitoring and reporting, and watershed management. Prior to joining the City of Hillsboro, Iverson worked for the Sunrise Water Authority in Happy Valley, Oregon. 

“I am very excited about the opportunity to lead the City of Hillsboro’s Water Department focusing on the delivery of high-quality drinking water to our community, and preparing for our new water supply integration,” Iverson said.

National recruitment results in Iverson’s selection

Iverson was chosen from among a group of highly qualified finalist candidates during a national recruitment. She will lead the Water Department’s employees in serving more than 89,000 customers.

“Niki is highly regarded and respected in the regional water community, and has the necessary skills and work ethic to lead the Hillsboro Water Department and JWC well into the future,” said Interim City Manager Robby Hammond. “Hillsboro has a long-standing reputation of forward thinking and strategic planning, and Niki is well prepared to continue that tradition.”

Experience with Hillsboro customers and partners

In her 12 years of experience with the City of Hillsboro’s water system, Iverson has developed strong relationships with the agencies, cities, and partners that work with the Hillsboro Water Department, including the JWC, the Willamette Water Supply Program, and the Barney Reservoir Joint Ownership Commission.

The JWC is a partnership that operates the largest conventional water treatment plant in Oregon to produce municipal water supply for more than 375,000 people — includes the cities of Hillsboro, Forest Grove, and Beaverton, and the Tualatin Valley Water District (TVWD).

The Willamette Water Supply Program is a partnership between TVWD and the cities of Hillsboro and Beaverton to develop the mid-Willamette River at Wilsonville as an additional water supply source, beginning in 2026. Iverson served as the program’s Permitting and Outreach Manager from 2015 to April 2019.

Continuing Hillsboro’s leadership on water

Iverson succeeds longtime Hillsboro Water Department Director Kevin Hanway, who retired in late June after 14 years leading the department. During his tenure, Hillsboro secured water rights and created the Willamette Water Supply Program partnership to expand the City’s water supply to meet needs for at least the next 50 years.

The program also will create a second source of water supply for Hillsboro, which will provide security against the risks of drought, earthquakes, and other emergencies. The program recently learned it would be invited to apply for a low-interest federal loan that will save Hillsboro customers an estimated $125.2 million in repayment costs over 35 years.

Hanway praised the City’s Utilities Commission and City Council for their leadership and their support of the department’s work to engage community members in the decision-making process on long-range water system investments. He also praised the selection of Iverson.

“Niki is the most effective manager I know. She is recognized statewide for her expertise in the water field and in infrastructure finance,” Hanway said. “Our partners know Niki and trust her judgment, and Water Department staff are excited for the continued progress that her leadership will bring.”

Iverson received two Bachelor of Science degrees in biology and psychology from the University of Iowa, as well as a Master of Science degree in environmental science from the University of Oklahoma. She is a current member of numerous state and national organizations, and serves as the chair of the League of Oregon Cities Water and Wastewater Policy Advisory Committee, project manager for the Oregon Water Utilities Council, and lead for the Willamette Basin Review Study. Iverson previously was the chair and vice chair of the Oregon Infrastructure Finance Authority, and now serves as a board member. 

On Saturday, May 4th members of the Clark County Technical Rescue team were called to a daring rescue attempt on the Washougal river.

While rafting down the swift, cold river a woman fell off her raft and became trapped by rocks and debris.

Only a series of fortunate events, intense rescue training, and the hard work of over a dozen first responders saved her from drowning that night.

On Tuesday night we would like to honor the three members of Clark County Fire District 6 who are also members of the Technical Rescue Team (TRT) and were part of the rescue effort. Before our monthly Commissioners Meeting, we will gather in the Engine Bay of Station 61, at 8800 NE Hazel Dell Avenue, Vancouver, to present medals and commendations to:

• Captain Scott Johns
• Firefighter Bill Dunlap
• Firefighter Tony Lothspeich

In attendance will be Francis Reagan, the Washougal Police officer who was first on scene to help Ms. Emily McCauley, the survivor of the evenings’ rescue. Other members of the TRT may also be in attendance, including members of Vancouver Fire, and Clark County Fire and Rescue.

The recognition ceremony starts at 7:30 p.m. and should last no more than 20 minutes. Members are available for interviews.

• WHAT: Appreciation ceremony for those involved in Washougal River rescue
• WHEN: 7:30 Tonight
• WHERE: 8800 NE Hazel Dell Avenue, Vancouver, WA  98665  
• WHO: Clark County Fire District 6 Technical Rescue Team
• WHY: Because these folks went above and beyond the call of duty to save a life!

VANCOUVER, Wash. – A rare corpse flower housed at Washington State University Vancouver is blooming for its first time. The bloom began to open just before 8 p.m. Monday, July 15.

Titan VanCoug, as it is known on campus, is currently on display outside the greenhouse at the east end of the Science and Engineering Building. The corpse flower is infamous for its odor—comparable to that of a decomposing animal. The bloom is emitting odor that will last 24 to 48 hours. You may view this rare plant 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. weekdays. Or check in on Titan VanCoug any time via webcam at https://www.youtube.com/wsuvancouver.

About the corpse flower

The corpse flower (Latin name Amorphophallus titanum, also known as titan arum) is native to the limestone hills of Sumatra, Indonesia’s rainforests, the only place in the world where it naturally grows.

They are among the world’s largest and rarest flowering structures. They bloom rarely—typically after seven to 10 years of growth and just once every four years or so afterward throughout a 40-year expected lifespan.

A corpse flower’s odor is not without reason. It’s meant to attract pollinators and help ensure the continuation of the species. Dung beetles, flesh flies and other carnivorous insects that typically eat dead flesh are attracted to the corpse flower.

About Titan VanCoug

Titan VanCoug has been raised by Associate Professor of Molecular Biosciences Steve Sylvester. He planted a seed from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s titan arum plant, affectionately named Big Bucky, in 2002. He cultivated it in a pot on his desk until it grew too large to contain in such a small space. It has grown in a stairwell in WSU Vancouver’s Science and Engineering Building for some time.

About WSU Vancouver

WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave. in Vancouver, east of the 134th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205, or via C-TRAN bus service. Parking is available at meters and in the Blue Daily Pay lot for $4; after 5 p.m. $2. Parking is free after 7 p.m. weekdays and on weekends.

On Monday, July 15, 2019 at approximately 5:05 A.M. Oregon State Police and emergency personnel responded to the report of a pedestrian hit by a vehicle on I-205 near mile post 12.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the pedestrian was headed east crossing the northbound lanes of I-205. The pedestrian was struck by a 2019 Ford Cargo Van operated by Steven Stewart (56) of Donald, OR.

The pedestrian sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. He will not be identified until next of kin can be notified.

Stewart remained on scene and is cooperating with the investigation.

OSP was assisted by Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, Clackamas County Fire Department, and ODOT