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Portland/Vanc/Salem News Releases for Fri. Mar. 29 - 1:32 am
Thu. 03/28/24
Update-3/28-James Rummell Arrested-CCSO Investigates Burglary/Murder in Hockinson area
Clark Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/28/24 7:29 PM

Update 3/28/2024 7:15pm

This evening, the Clark County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit, with assistance from the Tactical Detective and Special Investigations Units, has arrested James Rummell. Rummell will be booked into the Clark County Jail on charges of accomplice to Murder in the First Degree and accomplice to Burglary in the First Degree.


Media contact was not updated in the previous release. Please contact SGT Chris Skidmore if needed.


Update 3/25/2024 10:00am

On March 24th, 2024, as the Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Major Crimes Unit (MCU) detectives continued their murder investigation, a tip was provided to law enforcement about the potential murder suspect. 

The investigation led to the arrest of Darrell Riley, age 55, by the Eugene Police Department in Eugene, Oregon. Darrell is being held on a Temporary Felony Warrant for Murder in the First Degree, requested by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office.  He will remain in custody in Oregon while the Clark County Prosecutor’s Office seeks extradition.

The stolen Ford F-150 from this incident was recovered in a rural part of Benton County, Oregon. The vehicle was damaged by fire, which appears likely to have been intentionally set to destroy evidence of the murder.

While official identification will come from the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office, CCSO has identified the deceased as Lindy Rummell, age 60, of Brush Prairie, WA.

The investigation revealed that the victim’s husband, James Rummell, was friends with Darrell Riley. It appeared that James had driven to Eugene, picked Darrell up, and brought him back to Clark County earlier in the day before the murder. After a second search warrant was served on the Rummell residence, James Rummell was booked into the Clark County Jail for Making False Statements to a Public Servant. Additional charges are possible as James Rummell is being considered a suspect in this murder. It appears James may have solicited Darrell to stage what appeared to be an interrupted burglary to commit the murder of Lindy Rummell. 

This case remains an active investigation.


On March 23rd, 2024, at 6:54 PM, the Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) responded to a report of a female shot inside a residence in the 18000 block of NE 119th St. She was located by her husband and two friends arriving at the house.  CCSO deputies arrived and found the adult female deceased inside the residence with apparent gunshot wounds.

A 2001 black Ford F-150, with Washington license plates, “C73655Y” was reported stolen from the scene.  A previously taken picture of the vehicle is attached. If located, the occupants of the vehicle should be considered armed and dangerous.  Please call 911 and do not approach the vehicle.

The circumstances of the female’s death are actively being investigated by CCSO Major Crimes Unit and limited information is being released at this time. The identity of the deceased is not being released at this time.


Oregon City Unveils C-SweeP0 Street Sweeper Name By Local Child (Photo)
City of Oregon City - 03/28/24 5:00 PM
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A new street sweeper is hitting the road in Oregon City with a special name given to it by a local 8-year old.

Kennedy Gibb, who was 7 at the time of the Name The Street Sweeper contest, had the winning entry with C-Sweep0. The name is a play on words using the golden droid of Star Wars fame “C-3P0” as inspiration. 

An avid Star Wars fan, Gibb’s suggestion won the popular vote in a landslide last year.

Following a brief unveiling ceremony Thursday afternoon at the Oregon City Public Works Fir Street facility, Gibb got the opportunity to take a ride in the sweeper and see how it operates. She’ll get another chance to show off the sweeper during the annual Teddy Bear Parade in Oregon City on May 4.

The contest was held by the City of Oregon City as part of National Public Works Week last May. Children were invited to enter their choices at the Oregon City Public Library. The top five suggestions were then listed on Facebook for people to vote on. The winner was announced during the City’s annual Touch A Truck event in July.

The delay in the unveiling was the result of lingering pandemic-era supply chain issues, as the sweeper had been delayed by the manufacturer a number of times before the City was able to take delivery earlier this month. 

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More photos and raw video can be downloaded here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1M5D10oMXcbcjkmWKz3-RxVzo0gDXZf9Y?usp=drive_link




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/3842/171131/Vance_Speaking.jpg , 2024-03/3842/171131/C-SweeP0.jpg , 2024-03/3842/171131/Kennedy_Gibb_and_C-SweeP0.jpg

Greater Vancouver Chamber's Annual Open Golf Tournament Returns in June, Registration Now Open (Photo)
Greater Vancouver Chamber - 03/28/24 3:59 PM
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PRESS RELEASE           
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE           
March 28, 2024 

 

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER'S ANNUAL OPEN GOLF TOURNAMENT RETURNS IN JUNE, REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Taking place Thursday, June 20th at Camas Meadows Golf Course, this 18-hole, shotgun-style tournament will host 144 seasoned players and novices alike. 

Vancouver, WA- The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) is thrilled to announce the opening of registration for its highly anticipated 2024 Open Golf Tournament, presented by Umpqua Bank

Scheduled for Thursday, June 20th at Camas Meadows Golf Course, this 18-hole, shotgun-style tournament promises an exhilarating day of golfing for seasoned players and novices alike. With space for 144 golfers, participants can anticipate a dynamic event featuring engaging mini-games and incentives strategically placed throughout the course. 

Registrations are now being accepted for both full foursomes and individual players, with opportunities for solo registrants to be matched with three fellow golf enthusiasts to form a team. Each entry includes golfer swag bag, breakfast, complementary access to gourmet handcrafted coffee, and an appetizer buffet during the award reception following the tournament. 

In addition to the main tournament, participants can test their skills in exciting contests such as putting and KP challenges, long drive competitions, and a "Fantasy Golf" raffle. Prizes await the first and second place teams in the Open foursomes, Womens Foursomes and Mixed Foursomes. 

“This much-anticipated event is known to sell out quickly. We encourage golfers to secure their spot, and don’t miss this opportunity to meet some new industry friends, promote their businesses, and connect with fellow professionals in a fun and interactive environment,” said Hadley Phillips, Member Engagement & Event Specialist at the Chamber.   

The GVC’s 2024 Open Golf Tournament is presented by Umpqua Bank and proudly supported by Comcast Business, Chick-Fil-A, IDM Companies, Washington Trust Bank, GRO, Stretch Zone Fisher's LandingCalPortland, BBSI, Waste Connections, Davidson Benefits Planning, McCord’s Vancouver Toyota, Northwest Personal Training, Opsahl Dawson, HAPO Community Credit Union, Lifetime Exteriors, Columbia Machine, Live Nation, Partners in Careers, Port of Vancouver USA, Hampton Inn & Suites, iQ Credit Union, 1-800-GOT JUNK, Alliant Insurance Services, Capacity Commercial, PAUL DAVIS Restoration, A.L. Merryman, AgWest Farm Credit, and Touchmark at Fairway Village

Get involved now! Tickets for last year's tournament sold out in just two weeks. For additional details regarding the tournament, sponsorship opportunities, or player registration fees, please visit: https://business.vancouverusa.com/events/details/2024-open-golf-tournament-presented-by-umpqua-bank-24714.  

 

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

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

  

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Media Assets:  
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Qtu4qT6yWEe9T8entGdbqrRmW_8qwnN4?usp=sharing

Official Event Link:  
2024 GVC’s Open Golf Tournament




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/3339/171130/1920x1080_Designs.png

Portland Man Caught Selling Drugs to Minors Online Faces Federal Charges
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 03/28/24 3:56 PM

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man is facing federal charges after he was caught using Telegram, an encrypted messaging service, to sell various controlled substances to minors.

Rocky Allan Rainwater, 24, has been charged by criminal complaint with distributing and possessing with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, early in 2024, law enforcement obtained information that an individual, later determined to be Rainwater, was allegedly using Telegram to advertise the sale of various illegal narcotics including cocaine, psilocybin mushrooms, MDMA, ketamine, LSD, Xanax, Adderall, and marijuana. In addition to delivering drugs locally, Rainwater, using the Telegram username “smokeyinpdx,” also advertised that he would sell and ship drugs to out-of-state customers. Investigators soon determined that Rainwater was advertising and selling drugs to both adults and minors.

On March 22, 2024, law enforcement arrested Rainwater while he was engaged in a cocaine sale. Investigators searched his vehicle and located a loaded .22 caliber pistol, 73 grams of cocaine, 465 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, and smaller quantities of LSD and dextroamphetamine. A subsequent search of Rainwater’s Portland residence returned additional quantities of cocaine, LSD, and methamphetamine, an electronic scale, .22 caliber ammunition, and $1,490 in cash.

Rainwater made his first appearance in federal court Monday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Today, he was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

This case was investigated by the FBI and Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF). It is being prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

CCITF, led by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, works to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations operating in and around Clackamas County, and reduce illegal drugs and related crimes throughout the community. The task force is comprised of members of the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Canby Police Department, Oregon State Police, FBI, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). CCITF is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program.

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

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Attached Media Files: PDF Release

Fatal Crash - HWY 97 - Deschutes County
Oregon State Police - 03/28/24 3:26 PM

Deschutes County, Ore. 27 Mar. 24- On Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 8:24 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Hwy-97 (Bend Parkway), near milepost 139, in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Freightliner and trailer, operated by Gurwinder Singh (34) of Tracy (CA), struck a pedestrian, James Ray Carter (75) of bend, in the fast lane.

The pedestrian (Carter) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Freightliner (Singh) was reportedly not injured.

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Bend Police Department, Bend Fire and Rescue, Deschutes County Sheriff's Department, and ODOT.

 

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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.


Evergreen Habitat for Humanity Expands Community Reach with New Home Build in Washougal
Evergreen Habitat for Humanity - 03/28/24 2:34 PM

VANCOUVER, WA - Evergreen Habitat for Humanity, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to providing affordable housing, is excited to announce a significant step in deepening its community impact in Clark County. The organization is embarking on a new home build project in Washougal as part of its commitment to assisting local families. 

The upcoming home build in Washougal marks an exciting endeavor for Evergreen Habitat for Humanity, aligning with its mission to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing options for residents in the region. This initiative is a testament to the organization's dedication to expanding its footprint and opening homeownership opportunities for more families within the community. 

"Our team at Evergreen Habitat for Humanity is delighted to announce the commencement of our new home build project in Washougal," says Josh Townsley, Habitat’s CEO. "This endeavor is a meaningful step forward as we continue our mission of providing stable and affordable housing solutions for families in Clark County." 

The new home, planned and constructed to meet the needs of a single family, is nestled in the town of Washougal off H Street. Through the dedication of volunteers, donors, and community partners, this project aims to create a safe environment where a family can build a stable future. 

This initiative also serves as part of Evergreen Habitat for Humanity's ambitious goal of assisting the next 100 homebuyers within the next three years. By supporting towns like Washougal, the organization is paving the way for more families and individuals to achieve the dream of homeownership. 

Evergreen Habitat for Humanity invites the community to join in this exciting journey. Whether through volunteer opportunities, donations, or spreading the word, everyone can play a part in creating a positive impact for local families. 

Are you or someone you know interested in applying for the homeownership program? Check out ehfh.org to sign up for an orientation and get started on the process!  

 

About Evergreen Habitat for Humanity: 

Evergreen Habitat for Humanity is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to providing affordable housing solutions in Clark County, Washington. Through volunteers, donations, and partnerships with local organizations, Evergreen Habitat for Humanity builds and repairs homes to empower people and revitalize communities. The organization believes that everyone deserves a decent place to live by creating opportunities for families to build strength, stability, and self-reliance.  


Skamania County Sheriff's Office Announces Two Recent Basic Law Enforcement Academy Graduates (Photo)
Skamania County Sheriff's Office - 03/28/24 2:18 PM
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The Skamania County Sheriff's Office is proud to announce the recent graduation of two Patrol Deputies. Deputies Ben Childs and Spencer Fredrickson successfully completed the 720-hour Basic Law Enforcement Academy course in Burien, Washington and graduated on 03/26/2024. Not only did Deputies Childs and Fredrickson graduate, but they also received exceptional achievement awards. Deputy Childs earned the Patrol Partner Award, the Squad Leader Award, the Highest Academic Achievement Award, and the Highest Overall Achievement Award. Deputy Fredrickson earned the Highest Achievement in Practical Skills Award.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/7426/171121/Fredrickson_Childs_Graduation.jpg

DPSST Executive Committee Meeting Scheduled 4-4-2024
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 03/28/24 2:15 PM

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE

BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

 

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Executive Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 3:00 p.m. on April 4, 2024, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Shelby Wright at (503) 378-2191.

 

Agenda Items

1. Introductions

2. Approve Meeting Minutes from March 10, 2022

     Approve minutes

3. DPSST Agreements with Third-Party Contracts

    Presented by Phil Castle

4. Next Meeting – TBD

 

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. 


Detectives arrest one in connection with mail theft, multiple federal charges pending (Photo) -- UPDATE
Salem Police Department - 03/28/24 2:00 PM
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: March 26, 2024

CONTACT:     Salem Police Communications Office | spdmedia@cityofsalem.net

 

Detectives arrest one in connection with mail theft, multiple federal charges pending

Police to return personal and financial documents collected in the investigation

Updated 03/28/2024 | 2:00 p.m.

Felony Crimes Unit detectives finished sorting through all the documents seized as part of a lengthy mail theft investigation which resulted in the arrest of Ross Benjamin Sierzaga, age 33, of Salem on March 25. 

To help expedite the return of hundreds of personal documents to their rightful owners, a webpage with information has been created. Residents who suspect they may have lost documents through theft can determine if they are on the list of individuals who can recover their property.

Things to know:

  • The web address for the page is salempd.info/document-return
  • If your name is listed, complete the form to start the process of retrieving your property.
  • Items must be picked up by the owner. 
  • The owner must present valid identification, such as your state-issued ID or driver license.
  • You may pick up your property at the Salem Police Station, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The address is 333 Division ST NE.
  • Additional instructions are available on the webpage.

All residents should note, any unopened mail collected as part of this investigation will be returned by the US Postmaster. 

Any Salem residents who have been a victim of mail theft but have not yet reported it, should do so at salempd.info/online-report. Theft of mail should also be reported to the US Postal Inspection Service online or by calling 1-877-876-2455.

Detectives urge any victims of identity theft to visit the Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft website, www.identitytheft.org, for helpful information and recommend an identity theft alert be registered with the three major consumer reporting companies, EquifaxExperian, and TransUnion.

# # #

Originally published 03/26/2024 | 1:30 p.m.

Salem, Ore. — A 33-year-old Salem man was arrested yesterday, March 25, during the service of a warrant at an apartment in southeast Salem.

Salem Police patrol officers arrested Ross Benjamin Sierzega on Monday afternoon without incident on multiple warrants stemming from a nearly two-year investigation by Felony Crimes Unit detectives into incidents of mail theft and related crimes in the Salem area. 

Following the arrest, a search warrant was served in partnership with the United States Postal Inspection Service at Sierzega’s apartment in the 3300 block of Crawford ST SE. The search of the dwelling resulted in the seizure of two lock cores from community mailboxes, several counterfeit mailbox keys and tools to manufacture the counterfeit keys, multiple checks, bank cards, and financial documents not in Sierzega’s name, and approximately 30 pounds of mail. In addition to the evidence collected, detectives seized a short-barreled shotgun and home-made body armor.

Sierzega is currently in custody of the US Marshals Service on federal charges related to this investigation. In addition to 11 outstanding Oregon warrants, Sierzega was charged with the following:

  • Felon in possession of a firearm
  • Unlawful possession of a short-barreled shotgun
  • Felon in possession of body armor
  • Identity theft
  • Forgery, first-degree
  • Criminal possession of a forged instrument, first-degree
  • Possession of burglary tools

Sierzega will make his initial appearance in federal court today, March 26, on a federal warrant which was based on charges of mail theft, aggravated identity theft, and bank fraud. Under US Code, manufacture of a counterfeit mail key carries a maximum sentence of 10 years upon conviction. 

Of the investigation, Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack noted, “I know so many residents have been directly impacted in recent years all across our city as victims of this far too prevalent and pernicious crime. The suspect’s arrest hopefully brings some sense of justice to victims and signals to those who would steal mail and commit fraud that we take these crimes seriously.”

The chief of police also commended the collaborative work done by Salem Police detectives and the US postal inspectors involved, “My thanks to the detectives who were relentless in their investigative efforts. I am also grateful for the excellent working relationship we have with the US Postal Inspection Service.”

Felony Crimes Unit detectives will spend the next several weeks reaching out to victims to return stolen property seized in the investigation. The US Postal Inspection Service will handle the processing and return of the stolen mail.

# # #




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1095/171048/SMP24021607_Items_seized_in_the_service_of_the_search_warrant.jpeg

Chemeketa Community College is Proud to Present Boston Brass (Photo)
Chemeketa Community College - 03/28/24 1:51 PM
Members of the Boston Brass
Members of the Boston Brass
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One night performance is scheduled April 23, 2024 in the Chemeketa Auditorium


 

Salem, Ore., March 28, 2024 — Chemeketa Community College is proud to present Boston Brass on April 23 at 7:30pm.  

For over 30 years Boston Brass has set out to establish a one-of-a-kind musical experience. From exciting classical arrangements to burning jazz standards and the best of original brass repertoire, Boston Brass treats audiences to a unique brand of entertainment that captivates all ages. The ensemble’s lively repartee, touched with humor and personality, bridges the ocean of classical formality to delight audiences with great music and boisterous fun. 

Tickets available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/656957075297?aff=oddtdtcreator

The concert will be held at Chemeketa Auditorium. 4000 Lancaster Dr. NE Salem, OR.  Building 6, purple parking lot. For further information and upcoming concerts visit www.ChemeketaConcerts.weebly.com 

Video Promo at: https://youtu.be/wc-hrc779dI


 

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4000 Lancaster Drive NE Sale

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

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


 




Attached Media Files: Members of the Boston Brass

Western Oregon University hosts Panamanian percussion musician (Photo)
Western Oregon University - 03/28/24 1:33 PM
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MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s percussion ensemble hosted guest artist Carlos Camacho from the University of Panama for a week-long residency in March.

The percussion ensemble recently held its winter concert, performing several chamber and solo works by Panamanian and Latin composers such as Samuel Robles, Ricardo Risco, Rodolfo Acosta, and Luis de Pablo. 

Before the concert, Camacho held a masterclass on Panamanian music and the Panamanian Tambor. Students engaged through Panamanian instruments and learned about the history of Panamanian music. 

“I’m really glad to be at Western. Thank you to Dr. Joel Garza for the invitation. It’s been cool to see how the students juggle their classwork and performances,” shared Camacho. “It was exciting to attend their concert and I like just being a part of it all.”

Professor Joel Garza, Ph.D., is the director of Western’s percussion ensemble. The ensemble is designed to meet the needs of percussion and music education majors. The group performs one concert each term and aims to challenge students in many percussive styles in the pursuit of advanced study and performance of the percussion ensemble repertoire. 

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon's oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction.  Together we succeed.

https://wou.edu/2024/03/28/western-oregon-university-hosts-panamanian-percussion-musician/




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1107/171118/Percussion_PR.jpg

Update on rollout of Frances Online for Unemployment Insurance benefits
Oregon Employment Department - 03/28/24 1:22 PM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

March 28, 2024

Media Contact:   

Seth Gordon
communications@employ.oregon.gov 

March 28, 2024, Oregon Employment Department Media Statement 

Update on rollout of Frances Online for Unemployment Insurance benefits

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is now in its fourth week of using Frances Online for Unemployment Insurance (UI) Benefits. 

With preliminary data for the week of March 17-23 now available, the transition to the new system continues to track with overall expectations, as most claimants are using Frances Online to file their claims. 

The preliminary data for last week shows that OED:

  • Paid out over $14.9 million in UI benefits.
  • Received 30,656 total weekly claims.
    • Of these, 29,713 were for the prior benefit week ending March 16, 
      • This is the metric we report in our weekly media dashboard
      • This is down slightly from the previous week (30,006) but has stabilized since the launch of Frances Online and is in line with seasonal trends. 

At 89 percent, the ratio of claimants who filed online using Frances rose for the second week in a row, climbing two points from 87 percent. 

“We are pleased to see that more and more people are using Frances Online and getting used to the new system,” Unemployment Insurance Director Lindsi Leahy said. “At the same time, call volume and wait times for our Contact Center remain high and we acknowledge the frustration that causes our customers. We are working as quickly as we can to answer questions and provide the support they need. We also want to remind customers of all the ways to contact us, including sending a message from their Frances Online account, or using our online Contact Us form, chatbot, and live chat in multiple languages. We will continue to monitor the system, listen to customer feedback, and make improvements to give Oregonians a better level of customer service.”

Agency Director David Gerstenfeld explained what obstacles the agency is facing as it strives to improve customer service. 

“Our biggest challenge is that we still have significant workloads and we lack the federal funding to hire enough people to provide the customer service Oregonians deserve. We are very grateful to the Oregon State Legislature for its support during the 2024 session.” 

Earlier this month, the Legislature passed House Bill 4035, which is currently awaiting the Governor’s signature. It will provide additional administrative funding for 72 positions, but customers won’t feel the impacts until the second half of the year.

The power of information

The Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce and Economic Research Division has long been known as a national leader in its field, and it’s now gaining international recognition. The division develops workforce and economic information and tools, which it shares with local governments, businesses, the media, educational institutions, and the public via QualityInfo.org

After Research Director Bob Uhlenkott shared OED’s approach to supporting job listings with detailed labor market information with the World Bank earlier this year, his team was invited to give a formal presentation for government staff and policymakers in Uruguay and Argentina on March 20.  

With support from projections economist Sarah Cunningham and regional economist Nicole Ramos, workforce analyst Henry Fields delivered the presentation in Spanish via teleconference. The focus was to highlight best practices and innovative methods of providing labor market information to support career exploration and job searches using real-time job listings for the Argentinian and Uruguayan governments. Henry also shared insights on how Oregon’s advancements in this field are shaping policymaking and service delivery in a rapidly changing world.  

“This was an amazing opportunity for our team,” Uhlenkott said. “We’re happy to share the lessons we’ve learned in Oregon with leaders from around the world, but I’m especially proud to see our team’s world-class work receive some of the recognition that it deserves.”

Next OED Media Briefing April 17

After hosting weekly media briefings about the rollout of Frances Online since early February, OED will return to holding monthly media briefings moving forward. The next media briefing will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, when OED will release the statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for March. Monthly briefings will coincide with the scheduled release of state unemployment rate and employment survey data. Information about the roll out of Frances Online for Unemployment Insurance benefits and other relevant updates from OED will be included at those briefings as needed. As always, members of the media are welcome to contact the Communications Office at communications@employ.oregon.gov with information and interview requests. 

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The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov. 


Man Arrested After Hitting 6 Cars, Sending 2 People to the Hospital (Photo)
Tigard Police - 03/28/24 1:19 PM
The scene of the crash at 99W & 78th
The scene of the crash at 99W & 78th
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A man was arrested on several charges after hitting six cars in a serious traffic crash that sent two people to the hospital.

On Wednesday, March 27TH at 5:36 PM, Tigard Police patrol officers responded to SW Pacific Highway (99W) near SW 78th for a traffic crash. Witnesses reported the driver of a pickup ran a red light, hit several cars and had been driving erratically before the crash. Officers learned the driver actually hit five cars along southbound 99W, and after going through the light at 78th, he hit a sixth car, wrecking both the car and his pickup. 

Witnesses reported the driver, who was later identified as 43-year-old David Rudge, got out of his truck with a knife. An off-duty Lake Oswego police officer happened to be nearby and helped hold down Rudge, along with other witnesses, until Tigard Police arrived to safely take him into custody.

The two occupants of the sixth car that was hit were taken to the hospital with injuries that don’t appear to be life threatening. Southbound 99W was closed for a time due to the extent of the crime scene and crash investigation.

Officers learned Mr. Rudge had eluded police in Lake Oswego earlier in the day around 4 PM. Rudge was taken to the Washington County Jail on a number of charges, including several vehicular assault charges, hit and run – vehicle injury charges, reckless driving, and several counts of criminal mischief for each of the damaged vehicles.

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Attached Media Files: The scene of the crash at 99W & 78th

Art exhibit 'Modern Artifacts: Ceramics and Other Obsessions' opens at CCC (Photo)
Clackamas Comm. College - 03/28/24 1:13 PM
“Totems” by Kim Murton
“Totems” by Kim Murton
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OREGON CITY – The Alexander Gallery presents “Modern Artifacts: Ceramics and Other Obsessions,” a solo exhibition of work by Vancouver-based artist Kim Murton. This exhibition runs April 1-May 3. An artist reception will be held Wednesday, April 10, noon-1 p.m. and Murton will speak about her work at 1 p.m. 

In “Modern Artifacts: Ceramics and Other Obsessions,” Murton shares hand-built ceramic sculptures, animation and illustrations inspired by her interest in pre-Columbian art, contemporary illustration and comics. 

Murton studied ceramics and animation at The School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and printmaking and film at The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in New York City. Her work has been recognized nationally. 

The Alexander Gallery is located in the Niemeyer Center on the Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave., and is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with the exception of college holidays.

This exhibition is free and open to the public. For questions, contact Kate Simmons at 503-594-3032 or kates@clackamas.edu. For more information on Clackamas Community College’s art exhibits and performances, visit www.clackamas.edu/art.

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Attached Media Files: “Totems” by Kim Murton

Inmate Experiences Overdose From Introduced Contraband
Skamania County Sheriff's Office - 03/28/24 1:13 PM

On 03/25/2024, at approximately 2325, Skamania County Correction Officers were alerted to an inmate experiencing a medical emergency. While Skamania County Emergency Medical Services personnel were paged to respond, a Corrections Officer responded to the inmate pod to assess the situation. Based on scene assessment and statements made by other inmates residing within the pod, the officer administered two doses of NARCAN to the inmate experiencing the reported medical emergency. The NARCAN was effective and the inmate regained consciousness. Skamania County E.M.S. personnel treated the inmate and transported them to the hospital for further treatment.

 

Due to the quick actions of Skamania County Correction Officers, the life-saving measures taken were successful. It is suspected the inmate ingested Fentanyl that was introduced into the correctional facility by another inmate. Although the introduction of Fentanyl, along with other opioid products, into correctional facilities is a nationwide epidemic, laws prevent routine, invasive searches of inmates. Currently, the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office is attempting to find funding for a body scanner to be utilized during the normal booking procedure in an attempt to find contraband hidden internally. 

 

This is an on-going investigation and charges for introducing contraband into the correctional facility have been submitted to the Skamania County Prosecuting Attorney for charging.


PF&R CHAT and ORT Teams (Photo)
Portland Fire & Rescue - 03/28/24 1:00 PM
2024-03/549/171109/_DSC3733.JPG
2024-03/549/171109/_DSC3733.JPG
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PF&R CHAT and ORT Teams
Results of the first 30 days of ORT Service

Portland Fire & Rescue’s (PF&R) Community Health Assess & Treat (CHAT) is an innovative first response program that addresses non-emergent medical calls within our response area. In 2021 PF&R created CHAT to properly address the high numbers of low acuity (less critical) medical calls that are negatively impacting the pre-hospital care system. CHAT team members include EMT Basics, Paramedics, Supervisors and Registered Nurses. Two-person teams respond to non-emergent 911 calls and follow protocols to treat community members in the community, provide health education, access to healthcare and social services. A CHAT Follow-Up team reaches out to the community member within 24 hours after the original 911 call to ensure they have service connections they need. CHAT teams work with a wide variety of community partners to get this important work done. 

In partnership with CareOregon, CHAT teams provide an improved service to the community with the goals of reducing unnecessary Emergency Department (ED) visits, improving health literacy, and facilitating access to medical care instead of transporting to an ED. CHAT diverts 45% of their calls away from local hospital ED’s. The CHAT Follow-Up Team reduces additional calls from the 911 system and works one-on-one with clients to gain access to care and improve client knowledge of their disease process. 

To aid in the Fentanyl Crisis, CHAT operates a specialized Overdose Response Team (ORT) in the city core along with piloting an innovative Medication for Opioid Use Disorder program aimed at providing medication assisted treatment for substance use disorder at the time of the 911 call, rather than transporting patients to already crowded ED’s. CHAT 1 focusses their efforts within the city core as this is where many of the overdose responses occur. CHAT 1 operates out of Fire Station 1 and will be dispatched directly to all P23 overdose incidents withing the Station 1 Fire Management Area (FMA) and will add themselves to OD incidents outside the primary FMA if they can access the patient in a timely manner, which they do regularly. Providing access to medication at the time of the 911 call provides the right treatment at the right time for this disease and saves lives by assisting more individuals into treatment programs. Attached to this release is a document that summarizes the successes of the first 30 days of ORT operation.

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Attached Media Files: 2024-03/549/171109/ORT_First_30.pdf , 2024-03/549/171109/_DSC3733.JPG , 2024-03/549/171109/_DSC3510.JPG , 2024-03/549/171109/_DSC4292.JPG , 2024-03/549/171109/_DSC3531.JPG , 2024-03/549/171109/_DSC3769.JPG

Nationwide Scam Hits Washington County Roadways (Photo)
Washington Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/28/24 12:39 PM
Social Media Graphic
Social Media Graphic
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The Washington County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) is issuing a warning to community members about a recent nationwide scam that has resurfaced in our community. WCSO has received several reports of individuals selling fake jewelry and watches on the highways and on ramps in Washington County over the past two weeks.

Reports have indicated that the suspects involved in this scam drive higher-end rental vehicles and flag down drivers on the side of the freeways or ramps. Once stopped, they typically approach the driver and claim to need money for gas to return home. In exchange for cash, they offer gold jewelry or watches of little value. These encounters often involve aggressive demands for cash. Community members are highly discouraged from stopping and interacting with these individuals.

Law enforcement agencies are actively investigating these incidents. Community members who have fallen victim to this scam are encouraged to report their incidents by calling non-emergency (503) 629-0111 to report the incident to a deputy. 

The Washington County Sheriff's Office wants to remind everyone to exercise caution and remain observant when approached by unknown individuals, especially on freeways and ramps. By working together and reporting suspicious activity promptly, we can ensure the safety of our community.




Attached Media Files: Social Media Graphic

Union Gospel Mission Serving More Than 900 Easter Meals This Week (Photo)
Union Gospel Mission, Portland - 03/28/24 12:03 PM
Easter Shelter Meal
Easter Shelter Meal
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For Immediate Release                                                                                   Contact: Courtney Dodds 

March 28, 2024                                                                                                      Cell: 971-275-2334

                                                                        

 

Union Gospel Mission Serving More Than 900 Easter Meals This Week

Portland, Ore., - UGM will hold its annual Easter Day brunch on Sunday, March 31 at 10 am at 15 NE Third Avenue in Portland. Sunday brunch meals include scrambled eggs with diced ham and cheddar cheese, biscuits and sausage gravy, fresh fruit salad, a pastry, coffee, juice, and a snack sack for later in the day. Guests will have the option of dining in or taking a meal to-go. 

UGM began their Easter celebrations last week with a special holiday meal at their overnight shelter. They have also been delivering hot meals all week through the Search + Rescue mobile outreach that visits camps throughout the Portland metro area. 

UGM wants to make the holiday week a little extra special for those experiencing homelessness, especially since many are separated from family and can’t have a typical celebration. Union Gospel Mission is serving more than 900 Easter meals this week to help those experiencing homelessness. 

The Mission also prepared 500 Easter food baskets for families who are housed but unable to provide an Easter brunch for their families. 

If you would like to help the Mission provide meals and food boxes to those in need visit www.ugmportland.org/donate, call 503-274-4483 or mail a check to 3 NW Third Avenue Portland, OR 97209. 

About Union Gospel Mission: 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, ugmportland.org or on social media @ugmpdx

 

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Attached Media Files: Easter Shelter Meal , Easter Shelter Meal , Easter Shelter Meal , Easter Shelter Meal , Easter Shelter Meal

Willamette Water Supply System Commission Board Meeting -- April 4, 2024
Tualatin Valley Water Dist. - Willamette Water Supply System - 03/28/24 11:43 AM

The Willamette Water Supply System Commission Board meeting will be held Thursday April 4, 2024, at 12:00pm.

Location: This meeting will not be held at a physical location. If you wish to attend remotely, please contact annette.rehms@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957 for dial-in information by 10:00am on April 4. 

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

The meeting is accessible to persons with disabilities and those who need qualified bilingual interpreters. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired, a bilingual interpreter or for other accommodations should be made at least 72 hours before the meeting to the contact listed above.

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

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

Executive Session: An executive session of the Board is called under ORS 192.660(2)(f) to consider information or records that are exempt by law from public inspection and ORS 192.660(2)(h) to consult with counsel concerning the legal rights and duties of a public body with regard to current litigation or litigation likely to be file, will be held prior to the Board meeting at 11:30AM.


Children's Justice Center, libraries join forces for Child Abuse Prevention Month
Clark Co. WA Communications - 03/28/24 11:15 AM

Several events planned for April, an awareness walk scheduled for June

Vancouver, Wash. – The Arthur D. Curtis Justice Center will partner with Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries to host a series of events recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. 

FVRLibraries will have displays and children’s book lists to provide parents with resources to get kids more aware of their own safety. CJC employees will be on hand during story time sessions at several libraries to answer questions and provide resources regarding child safety. A complete list of the sessions is available on the FVRLibraries website.

Officer Rob Givens with the Vancouver Police Department on April 15 will give a presentation for parents on the reality of cybercrimes against children and will provide tips on keeping children safe online. The presentation will be 6:30-7:30 pm at the Cascade Park Community Library, 600 NE 136th Ave. Officer Givens has been attached to VPD’s Digital Evidence Cybercrime Unit for almost 10 years. Parents can attend in person or online. More information is available here.

To further awareness, CJC encourages everyone to Wear Blue 4 Kids on April 5 in recognition of the month and post pictures or selfies on social media using the hashtag #wearblue4kids. 

“We want everyone to save the date for CJC’s Awareness Walk and Learn on Saturday, June 23 at Fort Vancouver,” said Amy Russell, Director of the Children’s Justice Center. “The walk will be 9-11 am and will be a free, family friendly event with activities designed to help keep kids safe.”


Lincoln City K-9 Assists OSP in Locating Missing Driver (Photo)
Lincoln City Police - 03/28/24 10:52 AM
2024-03/6142/171107/Nix.jpg
2024-03/6142/171107/Nix.jpg
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On Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at approximately 2:30 PM Lincoln City Police K-9 Officer Nix and her handler, Officer Snidow, responded to the area of Mile Marker 17 on Highway 20 to help locate a missing driver.  The driver, an 81-year-old male, had driven off the embankment of Highway 20 in the area the night prior.  The crash was not discovered until approximately 2:00 PM by a passer-by.

Discovered inside the vehicle was an elderly female passenger who had suffered a head injury. She was subsequently transported by medical personnel to Pacific Communities Hospital in Newport.

When Officer Snidow and K-9 Nix arrived, they began searching the area.  K-9 Nix quickly located the driver, who walked away after the crash, approximately 100 yards from his car stuck in an area of dense blackberries.  The driver apparently had a medical episode, and was transported to the Pacific Communities Hospital in Newport.

This incident highlights the importance of the Police K-9 program available in Lincoln City.  As there were no other K-9 units available in the county, Lincoln City Police Officer Snidow and K-9 Nix were instrumental in locating the driver and ensuring he received medical care. The Lincoln City Police Department is grateful for the community support that allows us to run this beneficial program.

Submitted By:

Sergeant Torin Liden / Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6142/171107/Nix.jpg

YWCA's in Washington State Receive $12 Million Investment from Ballmer Group
YWCA Clark County - 03/28/24 10:47 AM

Multi-year grant supports YWCA’s work to advance opportunity for Washington women & children

Vancouver, WA – YWCA Clark County is one of ten YWCA associations in Washington State receiving an investment from Ballmer Group that will support the economic advancement and safety of local women and children. The $12.1 million grant will be distributed over three years and will benefit more than 55,000 people across Washington State served by the YWCA network annually. 

The funding will bolster a wide array of programs and services delivered by YWCA for employment, safety, and health to meet the immediate needs of vulnerable community members. "We are thrilled by the Ballmer Group’s generous investment in Washington's YWCAs, recognizing our crucial work in supporting women, children, and communities of color," said Brittini Lasseigne, CEO of YWCA Clark County. "This partnership magnifies our ability to create significant, positive change for those most in need across the state. We're honored to be part of this collective effort to empower our communities."

This gift builds on Connie and Steve Ballmer's 30-year legacy of support for the YWCA locally in Seattle and is the first time all YWCA's statewide have received joint funding from Ballmer Group. This approach emphasizes Ballmer Group’s priority of investing in people who live in communities furthest from opportunity. 

"Ballmer Group is pleased to partner with the YWCAs across Washington State," said Andi Smith, Executive Director for Ballmer Group Washington State and National Behavioral Health. "YWCA chapters provide crucial support to women and children and build stronger communities through their focus on housing, health and safety, and economic mobility." 

YWCA has a 130-year long history in Washington State, where it works to improve the lives of women, girls, and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities. All associations are affiliated with YWCA USA and World YWCA, yet each operates independently within the local community. This means programming each YWCA association is unique, with services designed to meet the needs of its community members. 

YWCA’s services focus on the issue areas of housing stability, health access, gender-based violence, and economic empowerment, centering the needs of women and populations furthest from opportunity. This includes BIPOC women, especially Black women, who are disproportionately impacted by homelessness, poverty, and violence. Most households served by YWCA are led by low-income single women, the majority of whom care for children under 18-years-old, and have been directly impacted by gender-based violence and/or homelessness. 

The ten local associations receiving this grant are: 

  • YWCA Bellingham
  • YWCA Clark County
  • YWCA Kitsap County
  • YWCA North Central Washington
  • YWCA Olympia
  • YWCA Pierce County
  • YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish
  • YWCA Spokane
  • YWCA Walla Walla
  • YWCA Yakima

About YWCA Clark County

Celebrating over a century of service, YWCA Clark County has been a pillar in the community for 108 years, steadfast in its mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Annually, we impact the lives of 12,000 women, men, and children in Clark County through a comprehensive suite of programs designed to foster opportunity and equity. Our initiatives address the critical needs of the community, including support for victims of gender-based violence, housing stability, and health access. To learn more about our transformative work and how you can contribute or benefit from our services, visit us at https://ywcaclarkcounty.org.

About Ballmer Group

Ballmer Group is committed to improving economic mobility for children and families in the United States, funding leaders and organizations that have demonstrated the ability to reshape opportunity and reduce systemic inequities. We focus on multiple impact areas and systems that can impact economic mobility - such as early learning, K-12 education, college and career pathways, housing, behavioral health, and criminal justice - and we support leaders and organizations that focus on undoing systemic racism and the barriers it has created. Ballmer Group is both a national and regional funder – we have a presence and invest deeply in southeast Michigan, Washington state, and Los Angeles County. Ballmer Group was co-founded by philanthropist Connie Ballmer and her husband Steve Ballmer, former CEO of Microsoft, founder of USAFacts, and chairman of the Los Angeles Clippers. Learn more at www.ballmergroup.org.


BLM Boosts Internet Access and Reliability for Rural and Underserved Communities
Bureau of Land Management Ore. & Wash. - 03/28/24 10:30 AM

WASHINGTON – In support of access to reliable high-speed internet service for every American, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is updating regulations for developing and operating broadband infrastructure on public lands. The final rule on Broadband Authorization, Cost Recovery, and Vegetation Management for Fire Risk Management also reduces fire risk along power lines.

“Internet access is essential in an increasingly digital world, and ensuring that every American has reliable, high-speed access is a top priority for the Biden-Harris administration,” said Tracy Stone-Manning, BLM Director. “Internet opens the door to job opportunities, educational resources, health care information, government services, and social networks. By making it easier for service providers to put communications infrastructure on public lands, BLM is helping to ensure communities across America are connected.”

As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the Biden-Harris Administration is committing $83.1 billion to provide affordable, reliable high-speed internet to everyone in the United States.

As the nation’s largest land manager, BLM plays a major role in connecting communities to the internet in the Western United States. Updates in this final rule provide consistency in BLM’s review of applications to locate communications facilities on Federal land, allow project applications to be submitted electronically, and commit the agency to making a decision on applications within 270 days.

The rule also addresses the risks of wildfire to and from powerlines on BLM-managed public lands. Hazard trees and other vegetation near transmission and distribution lines can be ignition points for fires or become fuel for fires that start elsewhere. Clarifying requirements for vegetation management will enhance public safety while helping protect investments in infrastructure and resources on public lands.

In addition, the rule updates BLM’s cost recovery fee schedule for authorizing broadband projects, which will help ensure the BLM is fairly compensated for its work.

There are approximately 1,500 communications sites on BLM-managed lands, many of which include towers for cellular and wireless services. Additionally, BLM administers 5,000 miles of energy corridors for power transmission (connected to 1,000 miles of similar corridors on U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service lands), which are compatible with uses such as fiber optics and phone lines.

For more information on the BLM broadband rule, visit www.blm.gov/broadband-rule. For more information about BLM’s efforts to build and secure the nation’s infrastructure, visit our infrastructure site.

 

–BLM–

 

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of subsurface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations


Tip of the Week for April 1, 2024 - Distracted Driving (Photo)
Lincoln Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/28/24 10:00 AM
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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has declared April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Distracted driving is any activity that takes the driver’s attention away from driving. Cell phone use including texting, talking on the phone, or using social media are some of the activities that are the most dangerous. This is because cell phone use takes your visual, manual, cognitive, and auditory attention away from driving.

While cell phones are some of the most dangerous distractions, other activities such as eating, talking with passengers, grooming, and reading can be dangerous and deadly. According to the NHTSA, 3,522 people were killed by distracted driving in 2021. You can learn more about the dangers of distracted driving by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month” webpage. 

Use these tips to help keep your car distraction free:

  • Don’t call or text while driving. Instead, pull over in a safe place to read and send texts or make a phone call.
  • Establish a “co-pilot” passenger to manage your cell phone, GPS, and other distractions.
  • Look up your destination ahead of time and become familiar with the area. This will help prevent the need to look at GPS while driving.
  • Enjoy your meal at home, in the restaurant, or while parked safely. Eating while driving increases your risk of traffic collisions and the likelihood of choking.
  • Keep pets crated or otherwise secured for safety. This will help keep your furry friend safer in the event of a crash and prevents them from crawling onto your lap or other distracting activities.
  • Recruit the whole family for distraction-free driving. Teach your children the importance of keeping your attention on the road even before they can drive.
  • If your children need help, pull over to help address their needs instead of reaching to the backseat while driving.
  • Encourage friends and family to drive distraction-free. By speaking up, you may save their life and others on the road.

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

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Attached Media Files: 2024-03/5490/170512/03.28.24_-_Distracted_Driving.pdf , 2024-03/5490/170512/03.28.24_-_Distracted_Driving.docx , 2024-03/5490/170512/Tip_of_the_Week_-_Distracted_Driving.png

FBI Portland Division Now Accepting Applications for the FBI's Teen Academy (Photo)
FBI - Oregon - 03/28/24 9:49 AM
Evidence Collecting
Evidence Collecting
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PORTLAND, OREGON – Have you ever wanted to be part of a SWAT Team? Or fingerprint a suspect? Or learn how to catch a cyber-criminal? Then consider participating in the FBI Teen Academy.

The FBI Teen Academy program provides an excellent opportunity for rising high school juniors and seniors to learn about exciting careers in law enforcement within the FBI and beyond. Applicants chosen for the program actively engage with FBI agents and leaders in the Bureau to learn about case studies, crime prevention, evidence gathering, and investigative techniques related to criminal activity. The Teen Academy allows students to delve deeply into levels of law enforcement unavailable to them in a general classroom setting.

"Last year this office received a record number of applicants for the FBI’s Teen Academy, and we are excited to host them again this year,” said Aubree M. Schwartz, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. "This is a unique opportunity for these teens to see how the FBI fits into the greater Department of Justice. They will interact with FBI Special Agents and learn how the FBI conducts investigations, from interviewing to evidence gathering and analysis, using deductive reasoning and logic-based skills. This week-long program is an excellent introduction into the field of federal law enforcement and will hopefully inspire the next generation of FBI employees."

Students learn about how criminals are captured, hear from FBI agents about actual cases, and learn how to raise their self-awareness online and watch for cyber-predators. Graduates of the Teen Academy program develop a keen understanding of how the FBI interacts with local law enforcement agencies and how participants can raise crime prevention awareness in their communities. In addition, hands-on instruction by FBI experts and other law enforcement agents allows students to understand the importance of communication between national and local agencies. 

Teen Academy members engage in group activities ranging from small group exercises to hands-on simulations. As a result, students learn valuable life skills and increase their knowledge and understanding of how law enforcement agencies interact around the country.

Participation is free to the applicants chosen, and volunteer organizations provide supplies for the events. 

Applicants must be rising juniors or seniors in high school in the state of Oregon or Southwest Washington. Attendees will need to provide their own transportation to and from the FBI Portland Field Office. 

To Apply:

FBI Portland is currently accepting applications for its 2024 Teen Academy. The session will take place Monday, July 15 to Thursday, July 18, 2024.

Submit your application to each.pd@fbi.gov">outreach.pd@fbi.gov by Friday, April 26, 2024.

                                                                          ###

https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/portland-teen-academy-application-2024.pdf/view           

 

Interviews with a former Teen Academy graduate, who is now an FBI Portland employee, available upon request. 

 




Attached Media Files: 2023 Attendees Photo , Team Building , Evidence Collecting , Graduation Ceremony , Daily Fitness , Fingerprinting , Fingerprinting , Casting Shoe Prints , Bomb Tech Suit , SWAT Demonstration , Classroom

Deputies Assist Forest Grove Police with Stolen Vehicle (Photo)
Washington Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/28/24 9:41 AM
Stolen Vehicle
Stolen Vehicle
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On Thursday, March 28, 2024, at 03:50 a.m., deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office serving the city of Cornelius observed a dark-colored sedan going the wrong way on Pacific Avenue near Filbert Street. 

The vehicle matched the description of one involved in an earlier incident with Forest Grove Police, where individuals were reported attempting to enter vehicles on the 900 block of 37th Avenue.

After locating the sedan, a deputy moved to the right on the side of the road and activated the patrol car’s overhead lights. The driver then accelerated past the deputy and subsequently collided with a median near 2836 Pacific Avenue. The collision caused the driver to lose control, resulting in the vehicle spinning out and coming to a halt near Maple Street.

As more deputies arrived, they confirmed the vehicle had been stolen in Forest Grove moments prior. Deputies searched the area but could not locate the car’s occupants, who had fled.

While Forest Grove officers investigated the crash scene, deputies searched the surrounding area. They located a stolen 2019 Lexus RX sport utility vehicle occupied by two subjects who appeared to be asleep inside.

Deputies pinned the Lexus in with patrol cars to prevent the Lexus from being driven away and, after a brief standoff, safely detained both occupants: a 17-year-old driver and the 15-year-old passenger, both from Portland. They were subsequently handed over to the Forest Grove Police Department and are now held at the Donald E. Long Juvenile Detention Home. 

A loaded Glock handgun and various items belonging to yet-unidentified victims were recovered from the Lexus. 

The Forest Grove Police Department is leading the investigation into this incident. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact them directly at 503-992-3260.




Attached Media Files: Stolen Vehicle

Oregon Dept. of Forestry adds capacity to its urban forestry program with new hires (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/28/24 9:31 AM
The Oregon Dept. of Forestry has expanded its urban forestry team to better serve cities and towns across the state.
The Oregon Dept. of Forestry has expanded its urban forestry team to better serve cities and towns across the state.
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SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is poised to provide increased service on tree-related matters to Oregon’s urban residents thanks to five new hires. Using funding from the Oregon State Legislature, and the USDA Forest Service through the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), ODF has been able to hire a grants administrator and four new community assistance foresters – up from just one for the whole state.

Scott Altenhoff, Manager of ODF’s Urban and Community Assistance Forestry program, said he’s looking forward to how much more the added staff will allow the agency to do. 

“With 241 cities and towns in Oregon spread over 90,000 square miles and only one urban  forester, we were limited in how much support we could provide to any one community,” said Altenhoff. “With more staff, I’m excited we can engage with more communities to help them plan and manage their urban trees in accordance with best practices and the latest scientific research.”

Until now, Brittany Oxford had been the agency’s lone Community Assistance Forester. She has been joined since March 18 by Evan Elderbrock, Lilah Gonen, Alison Herrell and Jennifer Killian. 

Killian left her position as urban forester for the City of Corvallis to join ODF.  She has deep background in municipal forestry in her home state of Wisconsin, where she worked on that state’s emerald ash borer team. Prior to her work for Corvallis, she was Volunteer Program Coordinator for the non-profit tree planting organization Friends of Trees. She holds a master's degree from Oregon State University focused on long-term strategic urban forestry management. She is a member of the Pacific Northwest chapter of International Society of Arboriculture and a past board member of Oregon Community Trees, serving as chair of its 2019 conference.

Herrell is a Board-Certified Master Arborist and a Qualified Tree Risk Assessor. She has worked in various environmental posts for the past 15 years. She spent several seasons early in her career as a field technician for non-profits doing restoration and conservation work, including an AmeriCorps position with The Nature Conservancy. After completing her master’s degree in Environmental Science from Indiana University, she worked for six years in Chicago with a commercial and residential tree care company. There, she worked as a groundsperson, plant healthcare technician, tree climber, and consulting arborist for. She then transitioned to a technical trainer role in Portland focusing on plant diagnostics, educating arborists about responsible integrated pest management practices, and planning for invasive pests. A part-time instructor at Portland Community College, she is in line to be the next president of the Pacific Northwest Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture. 

Elderbrock and Gonen are moving into permanent positions with ODF after serving as specialists outreaching to local communities on emerald ash borer preparation and management. 

Elderbrock grew up in Wisconsin but now lives in Eugene. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Geology from Macalester College in Minnesota, he worked briefly for the Minnesota Geological Survey. He then spent four years as a field ecology instructor in Maine and California. He later earned a master’s degree in Environment Studies from the University of Oregon (UO. That’s also where he completed his doctorate in Landscape Architecture in 2023. 

Lilah Gonen has bachelor’s degrees in Forestry and Geography from the University of California, Berkeley, and a master’s in Botany and Plant Pathology from Oregon State University. Before joining ODF, Gonnen did invasive insect surveying and eradication work with the Oregon Dept. of Agriculture, and urban forestry and wetland restoration work with the City of Gresham. Gonnen specializes in forest pathology and invasive species management, including sudden oak death, Swiss needle cast, Japanese beetle, emerald ash borer, and various weeds. 

“I’m eager to have such a well-qualified team to assist communities better manage their tree resources, including helping them inventory the trees they have and inputting the data into the TreePlotter Inventory System,” said Altenhoff.

Thanks to a federal grant, Altenhoff said ODF is able to offer the tree inventory software free to Oregon cities and towns. “The advantage is that everyone can compare their trees to every other community in Oregon using the software. This will help us get a better understanding of what trees are doing well where, and which are struggling. This improves our ability to make region-specific recommendations on what to plant. It also helps cities and towns see more precisely what their risk from tree pests and diseases is.” 

Altenhoff said he sees increased opportunities for partnering with communities on important initiatives, especially with $26.6 million in new federal funds coming to Oregon from the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 

“Later this spring we expect to call for applications from community-based organizations, something our new grants administrator Hilary Olivos-Rood will be handling.”

Olivos-Rood moves into her new position after five years serving as the agency's administrator for the Board of Forestry and rulemaking coordinator. She also sits on ODF’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council. Before her time with ODF, she worked in Risk Management at the Department of Administrative Services. She holds a bachelor's degree in communication studies with a minor in civic engagement.

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Attached Media Files: The Oregon Dept. of Forestry has expanded its urban forestry team to better serve cities and towns across the state.

Lebanon Firefighters Make Aggressive Stop on Building Fire (Photo)
Lebanon Fire District - 03/28/24 9:21 AM
2024-03/1191/171100/House.jpg
2024-03/1191/171100/House.jpg
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1191/171100/thumb_House.jpg

Lebanon, OR

Lebanon Firefighters responded to a structure fire in the 3600 block of S. Santiam Hwy in the early evening hours of Wednesday March 28, 2024. The first due ladder truck arrived to find smoke coming from the attic of a duplex and radioed an offensive fire attack. Firefighters quickly went to work by making searches of the building with firefighters from the medic cutting a hole in the roof for ventilation. A next due engine laid 700 feet of 4” supply line to bring more water to the blaze. What made this fire dangerous for firefighters was its location due to the smoke laying low covering all 4 lanes of the busy HWY 20 while apparatus were working off the highway. The IC requested help from ODOT and Lebanon Police Department to assist with traffic control as additional firefighters arrived and during the operation to keep firefighters safe. The blaze was radioed under control within minutes of fire crews making their attack. Crews were on scene for two and half hours mopping up hotspots, clearing smoke and investigating the cause of the fire. The cause is under investigation by the Lebanon Fire investigation team (LFIT). No injuries were reported but the occupants from both residences have been displaced due to smoke and fire damage.

Lebanon Fire District responded with 19 personnel on one ladder truck, three engines, one heavy rescue, one ALS medic unit, one rehab unit for firefighters and 3 chief officers. Lebanon firefighters were assisted at the scene by ODOT, Lebanon Police Department and PP&L. Albany Fire Department supported Lebanon firefighters by covering additional 911 calls with one engine and one medic unit.

The Lebanon Fire District would like to remind residents of the importance of discarding cigarettes or smoking materials in proper receptacles and having working smoke alarms in place. For assistance with smoke alarms in your home, contact our Fire & Life Safety Division at (541) 451-1901. Be Safe Lebanon.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1191/171100/House.jpg , LFIT , Firefighters , Smoke across HWY 20

Exclusive Media Tour of the Little North Fork Corridor and Parks with Marion County Officials
Marion County - 03/28/24 9:19 AM

Salem, Ore. – March 22, 2024 – Join the Marion County Commissioners, County Sheriff, and Members of the Public Works Department for an exclusive media tour of the Little North Fork Corridor and Parks. 

Things in the corridor look significantly different after the 2020 wildfires. Some parks along the Santiam River will be opening May 15, 2024, while others will remain closed as recovery efforts continue. This is an opportunity for all interested media to receive a guided tour, with guided access the parks for photo/video, and to ask questions in-person. 

This is an informational opportunity you won’t want to miss if you plan to cover summer recreation opportunities in the Santiam Canyon. 

When: 

  • April 12, 2024 from 8:00am to 3:00pm

Where: 

  • The Tour will begin at the Oregon Department of Forestry - North Cascade District Office parking lot (22965 N Fork Rd SE, Lyons, OR 97358)
  • Marion County Public Works will provide shuttle service from this location into the North Fork Corridor

RSVP:

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UPDATE: Driver Arrested, Indicted Following Fatal Crash in December 2023
Portland Police Bureau - 03/28/24 9:14 AM
An adult male was arrested and indicted for his role in a fatal crash in the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood.

On Monday, December 25, 2023, at approximately 5:00 p.m., East Precinct officers responded to a multi-vehicle crash near Southeast 122nd Avenue and Southeast Powell Boulevard. Officers found one person who was critically injured. The individual was transported to a local hospital where he died from injuries sustained in the crash. The initial investigation suggested the deceased, identified as 24-year-old Conner Wells, was the driver of one of the vehicles. Further investigation revealed Wells was not the driver, but instead the passenger in a vehicle driven by 26-year-old Martell Mason.

On Friday, January 26, 2024, a Multnomah County Grand Jury returned a 10-count indictment against Mason.

On Wednesday, March 27, 2024, members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force arrested Mason on a warrant stemming from the indictment. Mason was lodged at the Multnomah County Detention Center on the following charges: Manslaughter in the First Degree, Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver, Reckless Driving, Assault in the Fourth Degree (two counts), and Recklessly Endangering Another Person (four counts).

Anyone with information about this crash, who has not yet spoken to police, is asked to contact the Traffic Investigations Unit via email at crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 23-331614.

###PPB###

Original Message Below

On 12/25/23 at approximately 5:02 p.m. officers from the East Precinct responded to a report of a vehicle crash on Southeast 122nd Avenue just south of Southeast Powell Boulevard. One of the involved drivers suffered critical injuries and was transported to an area hospital by ambulance where they later died of their injuries. The Major Crash Team was activated to begin an investigation.

Southeast 122nd Avenue will be blocked at Southeast Powell Boulevard for several hours as investigators process the scene and collect evidence.

More information will be released when appropriate.

This is the third fatal crash in the City of Portland on Christmas Day.

Anyone with information on this incident who has not yet spoken to police is asked to call the Traffic Investigations Unit via email at crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 23-331614.

###PPB###

Public Safety Memorial Fund Board Meeting
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 03/28/24 8:38 AM

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

 

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a regular meeting on April 25, 2024, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting that begins at 9:00 a.m. at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE Salem. For further information, please contact Shelby Wright at (503) 378-2191.

 

Agenda Items

1. Introductions

2. Approve January 25, 2024, Meeting Minutes

     Approve Minutes

3. Public Safety Memorial Fund Budget Update

    Presented by Kathy McAlpine

4. Brian Gaunt (DPSST #37820); Supplemental Application for Discretionary Benefits

    Presented by Kathy McAlpine

5. Proposed Rule Change for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-070-0010 

  Codifying Eligibility Dates for OLCC Regulatory Specialists (SB 699)
  Presented by Jennifer Howald
 

6. Next meeting – July 25, 2024, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting at 9:00 a.m.

 

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. 


Wed. 03/27/24
Residential Fire Results in Fatality (Photo)
City of Salem - 03/27/24 8:16 PM
Street View
Street View
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1081/171091/thumb_Impacted_structure.jpg

Salem, Ore. Earlier today Salem Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire at 3362 Sunnyview Road NE.

Upon arrival the structure was fully involved. Crews made entry into the structure and located a fire victim during the primary search. The victim was removed from the building and was moved to an awaiting ambulance.  After examination and a medical consult with the hospital it was determined that he was deceased and no further treatment was possible and resuscitation efforts were ceased. 

The victim's identity withheld pending notification to next of kin. 

Salem Police Department and Salem Fire Department investigators are in the process of determining the cause of this fire. 




Attached Media Files: Street View , Interior of Structure

Information Sought in Vancouver Woman's Disappearance (Photo)
Vancouver Police Dept. - 03/27/24 8:01 PM
Cristina Ase
Cristina Ase
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/385/171093/thumb_Cristina_Ase.jpg

On March 26, Cristina Ase, a 61-year-old woman, was reported missing to the Vancouver Police Department by her husband. Coworkers of Cristina also called police when she did not show up to work earlier that morning. Cristina was last heard from at about 530am on the morning of March 26.

 

Police believe Cristina may have gone into Oregon after her leaving her residence at 501 SE 123rd Ave, Vancouver WA. It is believed she drove a 2013 dark grey Toyota Rav4 with a Washington plate of AQT1726. Her vehicle was located in Vancouver on March 27. Cristina is possibly carrying a black & white bag or purse. Her clothing is unknown. 

 

Police are considering Cristina’s disappearance suspicious in nature and highly unusual for her regular pattern of behavior. Her husband and coworkers are offering their full cooperation with law enforcement.

 

Police are asking Oregon and Washington residents for assistance in locating possible video footage of Cristina or her vehicle within a quarter mile radius of the following locations between March 25 at 4pm – March 27 at 5pm:

 

501 SE 123rd Ave, Vancouver WA

Glenwood Park – 8800 block of SE Claybourne Street, Portland OR

Flavel Street & SE 92nd Ave, Portland OR

 

If you have information regarding Cristina’s whereabouts or any information police helpful to this investigation, please contact Detective Nicholson at jason.nicholson@cityofvancouver.us or Sergeant Ballou at allou@cityofvancouver.us">julie.ballou@cityofvancouver.us.

 




Attached Media Files: Cristina Ase

Portland Lloyd Lions Club hosts On-site Secure Paper Shredding Fundraiser to celebrate Keep the Promise Days (KTP) (Photo)
Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation - 03/27/24 5:22 PM
Lloyd Lions Club 4-27-24
Lloyd Lions Club 4-27-24
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1832/171088/thumb_Lloyd_LC_Paper_Shredding_Flyer_4.27.24.jpg

Portland, OR - Grace Memorial Episcopal Church Parking Lot: April 27th, 2024  12-3 PM

The Portland Lloyd Lions Club will host the Paper Shredding Fundraiser on April 27, 2024. This event is part of a series of events throughout Oregon celebrating the Lions connection to Helen Keller. And their promise to address preventable blindness and hearing loss, in partnership with their Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation.

Event Details

On-Site Secure Paper Shredding Fundraiser

Saturday, 4/27 from 12-3 PM

Grace Memorial Episcopal Church Parking Lot

1535 NE 17th Ave, Portland 97232

 

Suggested donation:  $15 per standard File Box (15 x 12 x 10, approx. 25-30 lbs.)

We try to price this 1/4 to 1/3 less than typical retail cost to make it a good deal!

All funds received provide Sight & Hearing services to low income community members in need.

Together the Lions Clubs of Oregon, OLSHF and its partners offer access to people for critical sight saving surgeries and treatments; secure new eyeglasses; help people who can’t afford eyeglasses and hearing aids, and manage the largest vision screening program in the US. In 2015, OLSHF launched the LEAP Optical Finishing Lab to manufacture high quality, low cost eyeglasses. Annually, over 2,000 Oregonians receive new eyeglasses built by their lab. 

About OLSHF & the Lions of Oregon 

The Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) serves communities statewide. Since their formation in 1959, they have created programs in response to the need for sight and hearing assistance and partnered with medical professionals for discounted rates. They have built upon the promise made to Helen Keller by creating a continuum of care for people who lack access to vision and hearing services. Learn more at www.olshf.org or www.facebook.com/olshf.

Lions of Oregon & Northern California are a part of an international network of 1.4 million men and women in 200 countries and geographic areas who work together to answer the needs that challenge communities around the world. Lions are best known for working to end preventable blindness, the giving of eyeglasses and hearing aids for the needy and local service projects. http://www.md36lionsclubs.org/

About Lions Clubs International:
Lions Clubs International is the largest service club organization in the world. Our 1.4 million members in more than 46,000 clubs provide humanitarian service in more than 200 countries and geographical areas around the globe. Since 1917, Lions clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired, championed youth initiatives and strengthened communities through hands on service and humanitarian projects. For more information about Lions Clubs International, visit www.lionsclubs.org.

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Attached Media Files: Lloyd Lions Club 4-27-24

Clark County Parks and Lands hosting open house about Harmony Sports Complex parking lot and safety improvement project on April 10
Clark Co. WA Communications - 03/27/24 4:50 PM

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works, Parks and Lands invites residents to an open house to learn more about the parking lot and safety improvement project coming to Harmony Sports Complex. The open house, 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 10, will allow residents and facility users to learn more about the upcoming project and provide feedback. 

The parking lot and safety improvement project at Harmony Sports Complex will create about 200 paved parking stalls, pave parking lot drive lanes, and create a new access point to Northeast 192nd Avenue at the Northeast 13th Street intersection. The project includes a phased site plan for future improvements proposed by Harmony Sports Association. The complex, located at 1500 NE 192nd Ave., is leased, managed and operated by the Harmony Sports Association in partnership with Clark County. The facility operates year-round and provides facilities for baseball and soccer. In 2018, the county and Harmony Sports Association were awarded a grant for $1,141,690 from the Washington State Department of Commerce for the project. 

At the open house, staff will share a presentation about the project from 6:30 to 7 p.m. with a question-and-answer session to follow. The presentation and question-and-answer session will also be streamed online via WebEx. Before and after the presentation, residents are invited to review project information, discuss the project with staff and provide feedback. 

The in person open house will be in the Bud Van Cleve community room at Luke Jensen Sports Park, located at 4000 NE 78th Street in Vancouver. To participate online via WebEx, residents can register on the project webpage. An email reminder with a one-click link to join the meeting will be sent to those who register. Registration is not required, and a link to join the meeting will be posted on the project webpage and available to join by 6:20 p.m. on April 10. Meeting interpretation, additional translation and other accommodations can be requested by contacting the project manager, Paul Morin, at in@clark.wa.gov">paul.morin@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.4394. 

A recording of the presentation, presentation slides and handouts will be posted on the project webpage within seven business days of the open house. 

More information can be found at clark.wa.gov/public-works/harmony-sports-complex

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language. 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

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Oregon OSHA fines Bend construction company $103,438 for repeatedly violating fall protection requirement (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 03/27/24 4:27 PM
DCBS logo
DCBS logo
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1073/171086/thumb_DCBS-logo-blue.jpg

Salem – The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) has fined a Bend construction company $103,438 for repeatedly violating a requirement to provide protective systems to safeguard workers from fall hazards that could seriously injure or kill them.

The division cited Sky Ridge Construction LLC following an inspection that focused on a job site where work was being done on new houses. The inspection was conducted under Oregon OSHA’s prevention-based emphasis program addressing fall hazards in all industries.

The inspection found multiple employees working on a roof without fall protection. They were exposed to a potential fall of 18 feet to the ground. Sky Ridge Construction had violated a rule requiring employers to ensure that fall protection systems are provided, installed, and implemented where employees are exposed to a hazard of falling 6 feet or more to a lower level, according to the inspection.

During the inspection, the company corrected the violation identified by Oregon OSHA. 

It was the third time since January 2022 that Sky Ridge Construction violated fall protection requirements. Because of the repeat offenses, the penalty for the violation was multiplied, with Oregon OSHA imposing a $103,438 penalty.

Falls are one of the leading causes of death in the construction industry.

“There is no good reason for an employer to direct employees to work at heights without ensuring fall protection systems are effectively used,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “Any employer can get the job done safely by ensuring employees who are working at heights are protected. It’s not an option; it’s a requirement. Workers have a right to work safely, and employers must make that right a reality.” 

Employers have 30 calendar days after receiving a citation to file an appeal.

In addition to its enforcement activities, Oregon OSHA offers employers free resources to help improve workplace safety and health. These resources include the division’s Fall Protection Suite of online video training courses and its A-to-Z topic page about fall protectionThe Fall Protection Suite includes courses addressing fall protection fundamentalsconstructionroofingand ladder safety.

Employers are encouraged to use free resources – available now from Oregon OSHA and involving no fault, no citations, and no penalties – for help protecting their employees:

Consultation services – Provides free help with safety and health programs, including how to control and eliminate hazards, and hands-on training

Technical staff – Helps employers understand requirements and how to apply them to their worksites

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

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




Attached Media Files: DCBS logo , Oregon OSHA logo

Portland Area Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to Federal Prison
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 03/27/24 3:39 PM

PORTLAND, Ore.—A local drug trafficker who sourced large quantities of fentanyl from out-of-state contacts with ties to Mexican cartels for redistribution and sale in the Portland area and directed the transport and sale of firearms was sentenced to federal prison today.

Francisco Moncada, 28, who maintained residences in Portland and Vancouver, Washington, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, in October 2021, special agents from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Portland District Office began investigating a drug trafficking organization operating in the Portland area and parts of Washington State. In April 2022, investigators learned that Moncada, who was later determined to be a manager within the drug trafficking organization, was communicating with multiple Portland area drug traffickers to discuss fentanyl sourcing.

On April 18, 2022, law enforcement officers stopped a vehicle being used by Moncada and several associates to transport approximately 15 pounds of fentanyl. Just under two weeks later, on April 28, 2022, officers stopped Moncada a second time and seized an additional 10 pounds of fentanyl. Within days, investigators also obtained information that Moncada had instructed other members of his organization to sell various firearms.

On May 20, 2022, investigators searched Moncada’s Portland and Vancouver residences and seized seven firearms and two pounds of fentanyl. Between October 2021 and August 2022, investigators located and seized 50 pounds of fentanyl, 40 pounds of methamphetamine, and smaller quantities of cocaine, heroin, and marijuana from Moncada and his associates, and made 16 arrests connected to their organization.

On May 21, 2022, Moncada and three others were charged my federal criminal complaint with conspiring with one another to possess and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl. On June 14, 2022, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Moncada and eight associates for conspiring with one another to distribute fentanyl. Moncada was also charged with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On December 20, 2023, Moncada became the tenth member of his organization to plead guilty and, today, becomes the seventh member to be sentenced to federal prison. Four others are awaiting sentencing and one is a fugitive.

This case was investigated by DEA with assistance from the FBI Vancouver Resident Agency, Vancouver Police Department, Oregon State Police, Oregon City Police Department and Washington State Department of Corrections. It was prosecuted by Bryan Chinwuba, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

This prosecution is the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the U.S. by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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Attached Media Files: PDF Release

Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024 Executive & Special Session Meeting Agenda
Parkrose Sch. Dist. - 03/27/24 3:29 PM

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in an Executive & Special Session Meeting on Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024 virtually on zoom at the hour of 6:00pm.

Guests and members of the public may attend virtually.  

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

We encourage and welcome all members of our community to engage with our board. Please email questions@parkrose.k12.or.us or call 503.408.2100 to arrange for translation services at least 72 hours before this meeting. Closed captioning provided on zoom. Other appropriate auxiliary aids and services may be provided upon request and appropriate advance notice.

The agenda is posted on our website at:LINK.

Agenda items include, but are not limited to: Local Option Levy Planning

Electronic/Virtual Public Comment Protocol - If you wish to submit a public comment before, or during this Board Meeting please fill out this electronic public comment form before "Public Comments" on the agenda: https://forms.gle/5sUjRZjxJikqmqVg9. If you don’t submit your comment in time we will read it at the next board meeting.

Board Meeting Video Recordings - For those of you who cannot attend we will post a recording of the meeting on our website at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXajhxrPxMclOQ6J00JUszQ.

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


Battle Ground City Manager Announces Resignation (Photo)
City of Battle Ground - 03/27/24 3:12 PM
City Manager Erin Erdman
City Manager Erin Erdman
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/2812/171081/thumb_Erdman_Erin_(soft).jpg

After 10 years of service to the City of Battle Ground, City Manager Erin Erdman has announced her resignation effective April 19.

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce my resignation from the City of Battle Ground, a city I have come to love both professionally and personally,” said City Manager Erdman.  “I want to thank the City Council and the citizens of Battle Ground for entrusting me with this responsibility for the past five years, providing me the opportunity to grow professionally.” 

Erdman joined the City in 2014 as the Community Development Director.  Ms. Erdman began serving as the Interim City Manager in October 2018, before officially being appointed to the role in a unanimous vote by the City Council, in April 2019. 

During her tenure, Ms. Erdman was influential in the development of a community-wide vision designed to chart the direction for the City’s future, balancing the priority of growth while maintaining our hometown feel.  The City’s Vision and Strategic Action Plan set the stage for the City’s Land Use Master Plan, Transportation Improvement Plan, and various Sub-Area Plans. 

With overwhelming support from voters, the City saw the successful passage of the Fire District 3 Annexation in 2021 under Ms. Erdman’s leadership as City Manager. The Fire Annexation helped to reduce the City’s general fund budget expenses by $3.5 million and resulted in the decrease in utility taxes for our water, sewer, and stormwater customers while also allowing the reallocated funding of other planned improvements to the City’s public safety, roads, parks, and trails.     

As City Manager, Erman led the City through the global COVID-19 pandemic, just a year after her appointment.  Her management and leadership skills were critical, providing the guidance necessary to ensure the continued health and safety of our community. 

Ms. Erdman’s resignation comes following her recent acceptance of the City Manager position with the City of Kennewick, Washington. 

“The Council and I offer our sincere appreciation for Erin’s leadership, dedication, and numerous contributions to the City of Battle Ground,” said Mayor Troy McCoy. “I wish her well and hope she knows the incredible influence she has had in this community.  The City of Kennewick is lucky to have her.”

Ms. Erdman stated, “I want to thank City staff, from the bottom of my heart.  I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished together.  You [City staff] are truly an impressive and dedicated group of hard-working individuals.  I know the City will do great things because it has great people behind it.”

The Battle Ground City Council will discuss the next steps for the recruitment and hiring process of a new City Manager.  




Attached Media Files: City Manager Erin Erdman

Traffic Alert: Madrona Avenue SE to Close Between 22nd Street SE and Fairview Industrial Drive SE on March 30, 2024 (Photo)
City of Salem - 03/27/24 3:00 PM
Map showing road closure on Madrona at the Railroad Crossing
Map showing road closure on Madrona at the Railroad Crossing
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1081/171075/thumb_Madrona_Avenue_SE_Closure_Map.png

Salem, Ore. — The City of Salem is warning drivers that use Madrona Avenue SE that the road will be closed east of Fairview Industrial Drive SE to 22nd Street SE beginning Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. The one-day closure is necessary to repair and replace the pavement pad at the railroad crossing on Madrona Avenue SE. Local access to nearby businesses will be permitted during construction.

  • Location: Madrona Avenue SE at Fairview Industrial Drive SE and 22nd Street SE
  • Date and Time: Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Affected Areas: The Madrona Avenue closure will include travel lanes, sidewalks, and parking spaces near the train tracks in the construction zone.
  • Caution: Drivers are urged to be cautious while traveling, follow all signage, and watch for workers in the area.

The Active Construction Map provides up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem.  For additional information, please contact the City of Salem at 503-588-6211 or vice@cityofsalem.net">service@cityofsalem.net




Attached Media Files: Map showing road closure on Madrona at the Railroad Crossing

UPDATE: Suspect in Stabbing, Standoff Identified
Portland Police Bureau - 03/27/24 2:59 PM
The suspect in Wednesday morning’s stabbing and standoff in the Hazelwood Neighborhood has been identified as Beka Nebi Dekebo. The 29-year-old was lodged at the Multnomah County Detention Center on the following charges: Attempted Murder in the Second Degree (Constituting Domestic Violence) and Unlawful Use of a Weapon (Constituting Domestic Violence).

The Portland Police Bureau would like to thank the community for exercising patience during this hours-long incident.

Anyone with information about this case, who has not yet spoken to investigators, is asked to email crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 24-74647.

###PPB###

###Original Messages Below###

On Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 2:21 a.m., officers from the East Precinct responded to the TriMet MAX stop at East Burnside Street and Southeast 122 Avenue on a female who had been stabbed multiple times. The woman was not assaulted on the MAX stop, she went there for help. A community member called on the victim’s behalf and waited until officers arrived. Once officers arrived, they provided the victim with first aid until paramedics arrived and transported her to an area hospital. The woman is expected to survive.

Officers were able to gather enough information to identify the suspect, his location and developed a plan to contact him. When officers attempted to contact the suspect, he yelled at officers that he would shoot them. Officers then moved away from the apartment and requested the Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT) and the Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) respond to assist.

Officers attempted to negotiate with the suspect for hours. After unsuccessful negotiations, members of SERT made entry into the third story apartment and took the suspect into custody. The suspect was transported to East Precinct to be interviewed by detectives. The suspect’s name and charges will be released once he is booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center.

This incident is now resolved. Officers will be clearing the scene and opening streets shortly. There is no ongoing risk to the public and anyone with information about this incident who has not yet spoken to investigators is asked to please email crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 24-74647.

###PPB###

###Original Message Below###

The Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT) and Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) are responding to the Hazelwood Neighborhood for a stabbing suspect who is barricaded in an apartment in the 12100 block of East Burnside. Streets in the surrounding area are closed to vehicle traffic. A PIO is responding to the scene. Responding media can go to the northeast corner of East Burnside and Northeast 122nd Avenue.

###PPB###

Clark County celebrates Food Waste Prevention Week with podcast series, cooking event
Clark Co. WA Communications - 03/27/24 2:58 PM

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County has joined a national movement to prevent food waste. The Clark County Council on Tuesday proclaimed April 1-7 to be Food Waste Prevention Week, joining the international sustainability campaign with more than 600 organizations working to implement and amplify food waste prevention education.

Washington generates an estimated 1.1 million tons of food waste each year, including 400,000 tons of edible food that is disposed of in landfills. Nationally, up to 35% of all food produced is thrown away rather than eaten. 

Clark County Public Health’s Solid Waste Education and Outreach team aims to keep nourishing food out of the landfill by teaching residents how to prevent food waste and recover edible food.

In celebration of Food Waste Prevention Week, the Solid Waste Education and Outreach team is launching a podcast series, produced in partnership with Washington State University Vancouver’s student-run radio station, KougRadio. The five-episode series will feature discussions of hot topics around food waste and offer tips for how families can save money and prevent food waste. The podcast features local food waste experts, including Pete DuBois from Clark County Composter Recycler and Stacey Tigner-Loy from WSU Clark County Extension SNAP-Ed Nutrition Education Program.

The complete podcast series will be released on Monday, April 1 on the Clark County Green Neighbors website, as well as on the Green Neighbors YouTube channel and the KougRadio website

In addition to the podcast series, the Solid Waste Education and Outreach team – in collaboration with Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries and WSU Clark County Extension SNAP-Ed – will host an interactive workshop, “Cooking with Leftovers on a Budget,” featuring Tigner-Loy. The free workshop is 6-7:30 pm Wednesday, April 3 at the Cascade Park Community Library, 600 NE 136th Ave., Vancouver. Advanced registration on the Composter Recycler website is requested. 

Tigner-Loy’s innovative approach to cooking with leftovers draws inspiration from many different cuisines and incorporates waste-saving tips from cultures across the globe. Participants will learn about mindful food purchasing, storing and cooking. This family-friendly event will also feature a live cooking demonstration. 

Learn more about food waste prevention on the Clark County Green Neighbors website


Oregon Community Trees seeks poster presentations on trees and housing case studies for urban forestry conference (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/27/24 2:50 PM
Oregon Community Trees is seeking poster presentations about trees and housing to display at the June 27 urban forestry conference in Eugene. Deadline is May 24.
Oregon Community Trees is seeking poster presentations about trees and housing to display at the June 27 urban forestry conference in Eugene. Deadline is May 24.
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EUGENE, Ore. – Oregon Community Trees (OCT) is inviting students and organizations to submit abstracts on case studies or research to present as a poster presentation at this year’s Oregon Urban Forestry conference. The conference is being held on Thursday, June 27 in Eugene at Venue 252. This year’s theme is “More Housing, More Trees: Giving Oregonians Both.”

OCT is organizing the conference, which is co-sponsored by the Oregon Dept. of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service. Presentations can be about successes in preserving large, healthy shade trees or room to plant them on residential or commercial properties that were developed or redeveloped with an increased density level. Also sought are presentations about methods of tree preservation during construction, ideas for redesigning streets and right-of-way planting strips to make room for larger trees, and similar concepts.

Posters are limited to 30” x 40”. All selected posters will be displayed at the conference. To be considered for selection you must be able to attend the conference and be on hand to answer questions from people visiting the poster display area during breaks, the lunch hour, and the social hour following the conference. Discount tickets for students are available for $80 (includes lunch). Some scholarships are available for those who can submit a statement of financial need.

Submissions should be sent via 2024 UCF Conference Poster Application Form no later than Friday, May 17th by 5:00 p.m. 

Please reach out to Samantha Wolf at sammwolf@gmail.com for any questions or concerns. 

Posters can be set up the day before the conference on Wednesday, June 26 from noon to 4:30 p.m. All poster presenters are expected to register for the conference. Poster presenters can go online at oregoncommunitytrees.org to register and get information about the Conference and the Poster Presentations. 

You must be registered by the early registration deadline of May 25th, 2024.




Attached Media Files: Oregon Community Trees is seeking poster presentations about trees and housing to display at the June 27 urban forestry conference in Eugene. Deadline is May 24.

State of Oregon settles with cryptocurrency asset platform (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 03/27/24 1:57 PM
Division of Financial Regulation logo
Division of Financial Regulation logo
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Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has reached a settlement agreement in principle with a cryptocurrency asset platform for violating state securities regulations.

The group of affiliated companies – Plutus Financial Holdings Inc., Plutus Financial Inc., Plutus Lending LLC and Abra Boost LLC – offered and sold interest-bearing cryptocurrency depository products referred to as Abra Boost and Abra Earn.

As part of the settlement, the companies – commonly known as Abra – are required to notify all Oregon consumers with open accounts containing crypto assets with the companies that they are winding down U.S. operations and to encourage consumers to move any remaining crypto assets from the platform.

Consumers have at least seven days from the date they receive notice to remove their assets from the Abra platform. Assets remaining after that date with a value of $10 or more will be converted to fiat and a check or other instrument will be sent directly to the consumer’s last known address. 

In Oregon, 167 residents still have cryptocurrencies on the Abra platform valued at about $32,387.14.

The companies – controlled by William “Bill” Barhydt, who is also a party to the settlement – offered Abra Earn to all U.S. clients and Abra Boost to accredited U.S. clients. Investors in both programs earned interest by depositing digital assets with Abra and authorizing Abra to lend client assets to institutional borrowers.

“Although firms are creating new products tied to evolving technologies, they must continue to comply with existing securities laws,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “The division will continue to ensure that investors purchasing securities tied to digital assets are afforded the same protections as investors purchasing stocks, bonds and other traditional products.”

As part of the settlement, Abra and Barhydt will enter a consent order with DFR requiring that they cease and desist from offering or selling unregistered securities in Oregon and ordering them to pay an administrative penalty, which will be suspended if they comply with the process to return all assets owned by Oregon consumers before April 25, 2024.

“We strongly encourage clients in Oregon to withdraw their assets as soon as possible, but certainly within seven days of receiving notice from Abra,” said Keen. “We are available to assist and answer consumers’ questions about this settlement.” 

###

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




Attached Media Files: Division of Financial Regulation logo

Embold Credit Union deepens relationship with Linfield University (Photo)
Embold Credit Union - 03/27/24 1:54 PM
2024-03/5554/171076/Picture1.jpg
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Milwaukie, Ore. (March 27, 2024) – Embold Credit Union and Linfield University have partnered to bring financial literacy classes, a mobile branch, an ATM, and other programming to the McMinnville campus. 

The partnership began in 2022, when Embold was a key sponsor of NW Media Fest and began offering financial literacy classes to students in Linfield’s award-winning First Scholars program.   

“We are thrilled,” said Joseph Hunter, Linfield’s vice president for advancement. “Embold is a fantastic partner with a decades-long track record of giving back to the community. This is a tremendous opportunity for our first-generation students — financial literacy is absolutely crucial. Embold will give our students tools that will serve them throughout their lives.”   

For their part, Embold leadership said it’s a natural partnership. The first Embold McMinnville branch opened in June of 2023. 

“As new members of the McMinnville community, Embold sought partners who had similar missions,” said Hilary Kissell, Embold’s Director of Marketing and Community Development. “Our credit union improves lives and the connection with Linfield was a natural and easy fit—we’re both here to advance education, increase financial stability, provide resources to underserved communities and so much more. We are truly honored to help Linfield students, parents, faculty and staff and alumni bank boldly and achieve their dreams.” 

The mobile branch will be on campus Wednesdays throughout the spring semester in the Event Zone at the southern end of the Pioneer Way parking lot, across the street from Dillin Hall.

About Embold Credit Union

Embold Credit Union, previously Clackamas Federal Credit Union, has been rooted in local communities for more than 65 years. As a not-for-profit financial cooperative dedicated to helping members achieve their financial goals, Embold is like a bank, but better. Better rates. Higher dividends. Lower fees. Stronger communities. 

Today, Embold Credit Union holds about $600 million in assets, serving over 35,000 members in Clackamas, Multnomah, Washington, Marion, Yamhill, and Polk Counties. Specific details on eligibility and more information about the credit union are available at emboldcu.org or by calling 800.878.0671.

# # #




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/5554/171076/Picture1.jpg

Sandy Police Log 02-25-24 to 03-09-24
Sandy Police Dept. - 03/27/24 1:11 PM

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




Attached Media Files: Bulletin

Vancouver Fire Extinguishes House Fire (Photo)
Vancouver Fire Dept. - 03/27/24 1:06 PM
2024-03/5157/171073/2.jpg
2024-03/5157/171073/2.jpg
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At 10:51 this morning, the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to the report of a house fire at 3115 Drummond Ave in Vancouver, WA. Vancouver Fire responded with 10 units containing 27 first responders.  We arrived to find a two-story home on fire.  The fire was under control in less than five minutes.  Unfortunately, two cats died in the fire.  No one was injured in the fire and one person was displaced.  The Red Cross was called to assist him and the Vancouver Fire Marshals office in on scene to investigate.

The Vancouver Fire Department wants to remind everyone to please have and check your smoke detectors on a regular basis. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/5157/171073/2.jpg , 2024-03/5157/171073/1.jpg

Fatal Crash - Hwy 101 - Curry County
Oregon State Police - 03/27/24 1:03 PM

Curry County, Ore. 25 Mar. 24- On Monday, March 25, 2024, at 10:06 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-101, near milepost 342, in Curry County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Chrysler 300, operated by Warren David Laville (75) of Gold Beach, was stopped for an ODOT flagger when a Toyota Matrix, operated by Elaine Vicky Rosinbaum (55) of Coos Bay, collided with the rear of the Chrysler. 

The operator of the Chrysler (Warren Laville) was transported and declared deceased at the hospital. A passenger in the Chrysler, Mary Louise Laville (74) of Gold Beach, was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

The operator of the Toyota (Rosinbaum) was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation. The crash is still under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Curry County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

 

###

 

About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.


Western Oregon University alum highlights social work career (Photo)
Western Oregon University - 03/27/24 11:52 AM
2024-03/1107/171069/Michael_Waller_PR.png
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MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to highlight the accomplishments of alumnus Michael Waller ‘08. Waller received a bachelor’s degree in social science from Western, leading him to a career in social work.

Western introduced Waller to his two passions which are acting and sociology. Waller shares that he always knew he wanted to help people and while at Western,  learned there were a multitude of avenues he could take. Currently, he is a school social worker at McDaniel High School in Portland and a working actor. 

“One of the biggest things I learned at Western was to take chances. I did not believe that I could get into some of the things I’m into today. I was introduced to some staff at Western who really challenged me,” shared Waller. “They challenged me to have critical thinking and I wouldn’t be where I’m at without it. I recommend Western to everyone.” 

Waller’s story is a testament to Western’s commitment to supporting students in discovering and following their passions. His dedication to supporting youth through social work exemplifies the impactful contributions that Western alumni make to society, showcasing the values of compassion, leadership, and excellence instilled by their alma mater.

Watch Michael Waller’s success story

###

About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon's oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction.  Together we succeed.

https://wou.edu/2024/03/27/western-oregon-university-alum-highlights-social-work-career/




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1107/171069/Michael_Waller_PR.png

We Believe The Women - Mary and the Lamb (Photo)
Bushnell University - 03/27/24 10:54 AM
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Mary and the Lamb

A.J. Swoboda, Ph.D. 

 

Easter has a way of rushing right past us. But it is most certainly beneficial for us to use this beautiful Spring season as a chance to pause, reflect, and remember. Remember what? Easter is the time of year when Christians from around the globe and from countless traditions and cultures come together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. Easter, the Puritans cleverly put it, is the ‘death of death’ by the work of Christ. Despite the sacredness of this season, it always seems just to run on by us. This was particularly clear when I pastored a Christian church in my younger years. What struck me, year after year, was how busy life around the congregation became around Easter—especially the schedule of a pastor. Somewhere along the way I’d written in my journal how unprepared I was for the administrative work resurrection seems to create. 

 

In the ancient stories of the first Easter—in the gospel of John—we find that, indeed, things seem to move faster on Easter. The Apostle has a cluster of references to how things sped up at the twilight of that new morning. Mary Magdalene, we are told, came “running” (Jn 20.2) to the apostles to declare the tomb was no longer occupied. Soon after, Simon and John come “running” (v. 4) to the tomb to see for themselves. In what can only be interpreted as biblical trash talk, John even comments that he “outran” (v. 4) Peter to the tomb. Things seem to speed up that first Easter morning. It is as though new life is in the air.

 

The pinnacle moment in the account comes as Mary returns to the tomb after proclaiming the first Easter message to the apostles. There, she stands outside the tomb, afraid, sad, defeated. Jesus’ body was nowhere to be found. Coming out of the tomb, she finds a man—unknown to her—standing outside the tomb. She is unaware of who this man is. That is until he speaks her name:

 

“Mary.”

 

Many who have written on this account say that this is the moment in history that time goes from BCE to CE. At this moment, her eyes were opened to who she was speaking to. It wasn’t some random onlooker at the tomb. The unknown man was Jesus himself. 

 

Many ridicule Christians for believing this message. A particular school of white, German scholars—beginning in the 18th century—gave their academic energy to rob this story of its miraculous wonder and power. The resurrection, they claimed, could only be a myth. Sure, we can learn from Jesus. But there is no way that the resurrection happened—they claimed. 

 

But remember, it was the women who first saw the resurrection. And it was the women who proclaimed its reality to the world. In an ancient context where women were rarely (if ever) believed—often being barred from serving as ‘witnesses’ even in a legal setting—it is remarkable that the earliest Christian community would hang their most important witness on the words of the women who came to the tomb. So, who are we to believe? A group of German demythologizers from the 18th century? Or these humble and often disbelieved Jewish women? It has been, and continues to be, the belief among recognizable Christians that the women are to be believed. Their testimony is true. 

 

And it is still true. 

 

As historians and scholars often point out, it is remarkable how utterly incompetent and foolish the male disciples look in the Easter account. While they are terrified in a hidden house somewhere with their door locked, it is the women who first go to the tomb and come back with the news of its emptiness. If Christianity were nothing more than a patriarchal religion seeking to prop up the power and prestige of the men, then the Easter narratives in the gospel fail at their task. 

 

It is the women who first come to the tomb. Women like Mary. The minute she heard her name, she believed. She won’t recognize Jesus until he speaks her name. And, upon hearing her name, realizes it is, indeed, Jesus—her Lord. Everything slows down as she hears her name, “Mary.” This is the most crucial moment in history. And for us. One New Testament scholar by the name of Thomas Schmidt speaks to this very moment: “There is a curious and important detail in this story that is the main point. Mary didn’t recognize the risen Jesus until he called her by name. Everywhere that Mary went the Lamb was sure to go.”

 

He goes with us too—hidden, watching, present, with our name on his lips. Or, go to that story after the resurrection as two unnamed disciples walk to Emmaus. Just as with Mary, Jesus is with them—but they’re unaware. The problem for us, then, is not the event. It is the busyness around the event. What if, for just a moment, you stopped to enter that empty tomb yourself? What would you find? You’ll find that it is still empty. 

 

And that the guy standing outside the tomb of our own lives has your name on his lips. 

 

About A.J. Swoboda 

A. J. Swoboda (PhD, University of Birmingham) is assistant professor of Bible and theology at Bushnell University. He also leads the Doctor of Ministry Program in Formation and Soul Care at Friends University. He hosts the Slow Theology podcast and Low-Level Theologian on Substack. He is the author of a number of books, including the award-winning Subversive Sabbath. His most recent book Gift of Thorns was just released. He is married to Quinn and is the proud father of Elliot. They live and work in Eugene, Oregon.

 

About Bushnell University 

Founded in 1895 Bushnell University helps students discover and answer God’s call on their lives. Devoted to offering a Christ-centered environment, Bushnell encourages students to grow in wisdom, informed by faith, leading to lives of service. Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the University was founded by pastor-educator Eugene C. Sanderson and pioneer businessman and church leader James A. Bushnell.

 

Bushnell is the largest private university in Eugene’s vibrant University District. The University offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees for undergraduate and graduate studies through course formats on campus, online, and hybrid. More information about the University is available at www.bushnell.edu.  

 

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Attached Media Files: 2024-03/7128/171068/IMG_0447.jpeg , 2024-03/7128/171068/_DSC5373.jpeg

Longtime CCC Foundation member becomes CCC board member (Photo)
Clackamas Comm. College - 03/27/24 10:45 AM
Jo Crenshaw
Jo Crenshaw
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OREGON CITY - Longtime Clackamas Community College Foundation Board Member Jo Crenshaw was appointed to the CCC Board of Education, representing Zone 1, Oregon City, and took her oath of office during the March 20 Board of Education meeting. She is filling the position vacated by the resignation of Chris Groener. 

She has lived in Oregon City for more than 35 years and is a longtime local business owner. Prior to settling in Oregon City, she lived all over the United States working for United Airlines in Chicago, Washington D.C., San Francisco and Portland.

She has served on the Foundation Board since 2001. Along with her dedication to the CCC Foundation, she has served on the McDonalds Operators West Division Region board for three years as well as having served on the LaSalle High School Board and a division leader in Rotary.

“I believe I have a unique perspective that will assist the college in achieving its goals - knowledge, business experience, working with young people and the community,” Crenshaw said. “As a business owner, I am connected with the community. I enjoy people and have been working toward involving all.”

Crenshaw attended the historically black junior college Lemoyne Owen College in Memphis on scholarship and graduated with a bachelor of science in business management and international business from California State University, East Bay.

“Jo has a long-running dedication and passion for Clackamas Community College and the community. We are privileged to have her serve our college and our students,” CCC President Tim Cook said.

Crenshaw enjoys hiking and walking in her free time, including completing two marathons and hiking the Grand Canyon.

Crenshaw will hold office until June 30, 2025, and will be eligible to run to fill the remaining two years of the term in the May 2025 election.

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Attached Media Files: Jo Crenshaw

CCC hosts Accessible All-Stars, Nothing But Net(working) event
Clackamas Comm. College - 03/27/24 10:29 AM

OREGON CITY - Thanks to an Inclusive Career Advancement Program grant, Clackamas Community College is celebrating the diversity of the disability community at its inaugural Accessible All-Stars, Nothing But Net(working) event on April 5.

This free event will showcase the local professional adult wheelchair basketball team, the Portland Wheelblazers, where they will demonstrate their skills on the court and share the sport with the community. After the basketball scrimmage, there will be the Nothing But Net(working) resource fair to connect with disability-related affinity groups, support systems, clubs and businesses found across the area.  

The Inclusive Career Advancement Program grant includes funding to benefit the disability community, and CCC Grant Coordinator and Career Coach Shanna Schacher wanted to do something engaging for the community as a whole. She came up with the event after seeing the Wheelblazers play a scrimmage before a Trail Blazers game. 

“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to connect over a really cool sport and introduce people to wheelchair basketball if they’ve never seen it before,” she said.

The networking resource fair idea came next as a way to connect students and community members with resources. Schacher said the college has heard students reporting feeling lonely, isolated and disconnected, and she wanted a way to introduce individuals to the various resources available in the Portland metro area.

“I thought, ‘What if we make the draw be the game, but also have a networking event and invite groups that have support services so community members can know what’s going on in the community’,” Schacher said.

Accessible All-Stars, Nothing But (Net)working will start with the Wheelblazers scrimmage at 6 p.m. in the Randall Hall gym and the resource fair will run from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Gregory Forum. ASL interpreters will be at the event.

 Participating organizations include:

  • Adaptive Sports NW
  • Autism Society of Oregon
  • Oregon Commission for the Blind
  • Ride Connection
  • Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation
  • Community Vision AT Lab
  • Hoop Camp
  • TOP Soccer
  • United Access
  • Vocational Rehabilitation
  • Clackamas County Disability services
  • Relay Resources
  • CCC Multicultural Center
  • CCC Admissions
  • CCC Career Center
  • Club EMU
  • Office of WorkForce Investments Oregon Youth Works Dep
  • Higher Education Coordinating Commission
  • CCC Disability Resource Center

The college plans to make the Accessible All-Stars an annual event. “There is a need in our community and we are seeing lots of good response and excitement,” Schacher said. “I’m excited there’s been such a positive response from people in the community. They have been very grateful that Clackamas has been willing to host this event. It will highlight that Clackamas is an inclusive college and that we want students of all backgrounds to attend school here, and that Clackamas is really putting in an effort to reach out to a community that isn’t always thought of.”

The Clackamas Community College Oregon City campus is located at 19600 Molalla Ave. Parking is free, and no registration is required to attend the event. To learn more about the Portland Wheelblazers, visit https://wheelblazers.com. To learn more about Clackamas Community College, visit www.clackamas.edu

For questions, contact Schacher at shanna.schacher@clackamas.edu

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MESD Board Equity and Inclusion Committee meeting 4/4 at 1:00 p.m.
Multnomah ESD - 03/27/24 9:47 AM

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Equity and Inclusion Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2024.
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/81823558876?pwd=IuS9q5MUIH2b1BwVPWkeHa2XsKA543.1
Passcode: 880307


Clark College Grants Tenure to Three Educators (Photo)
Clark College in Vancouver - 03/27/24 9:30 AM
Mackenzie Lovett
Mackenzie Lovett
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VANCOUVER, Wash.— Clark College Board of Trustees unanimously granted tenure to three outstanding educators. These newly tenured faculty members are: 

  • Heidi Fay, Pharmacy Technician
  • Mackenzie Loyet, Biology
  • Heather Reynolds, Nursing

 Tenure is awarded by the college’s board of trustees based on professional excellence and outstanding abilities in their disciplines. The granting of tenure is based on the recommendations of tenure review committees to the Vice President of Instruction, which are then forwarded to the President, who presents a final recommendation to the board of trustees. Recommendations are based on self-evaluations, tenure review committee evaluations, student evaluations, supervisory evaluations, and peer evaluations. The final decision to award or withhold tenure rests with the board of trustees. 

Heidi Fay, Pharmacy Technician 

Heidi Fay began teaching at Clark College as an adjunct in 2009. She has been a full-time professor since 2010. Fay is the department head, lead instructor and clinical coordinator. She began her tenure-track position in 2021 after the program returned from hiatus. 

Fay has taught nearly every course in the pharmacy technician program at Clark College and developed two new courses recently added to the program, Pharmacy Capstone and Pharmacy Advanced Simulation Lab. 

She said, “As the program’s department head, I am responsible for all aspects of the program including scheduling of classes, ordering equipment and supplies, participating on committees and in recruitment activities, maintaining the state credential, and preparing for program accreditation.” 

She worked as a certified pharmacy technician at Legacy Health including Legacy Good Samaritan and Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Centers for 15 years. 

Fay earned her Associate of Arts degree at Clark College. She earned her pharmacy technician certification from Clark College. 

She is an active member of several pharmacy professional organizations including the Washington State Pharmacy Association, Oregon Society of Health-System Pharmacists, and Pharmacy Technician Educator’s Council.  

Teaching philosophy: “As someone who completed the Clark College Pharmacy Technician program years ago, my goal as an instructor is to bring a positive attitude, enthusiasm about pharmacy and healthcare, and real-life experiences. I strive to motivate students to be their best by providing a safe, welcoming environment for them to learn through hands-on, real-world simulations, and studies.” 

Mackenzie Loyet, Biology 

Mackenzie Loyet earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in anthropology and biology at Knox College, Galesburg, Illinois. She attended graduate school at Indiana University, earning a Master of Arts in biological anthropology and a Master of Science in anatomy education.   

Loyet joined Clark College as a tenure-track biology professor in September 2021. Previously, she taught anatomy to medical and dental students at Midwestern University in Chicago. She was instructor and laboratory coordinator at Midwestern University in 

Downers Grove, Illinois for seven academic years and an adjunct instructor at City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College, Chicago for one academic year.  

At Clark, she teaches General Biology, Anatomy and Physiology I and II. She is an active member in the Human Anatomy and Physiology Society (HAPS) and a certified yoga instructor. She published the book “Yoga and Anatomy: An Experiential Atlas of Movement” and has led several yoga/anatomy sessions at HAPS meetings in previous years.  

Loyet has completed both the Clark Universal Design for Living certificate and the Clark eLearning professional certificate. She values the scholarship of teaching and learning and plans to complete more eLearning workshops.  

Teaching philosophy: “My goal is to make sure all course materials and content are accessible to students. I recognize that students have different learning styles and come from different educational backgrounds. I truly believe that education is a fundamental human right. As I continue my career at Clark College, I want to ensure that courses are accessible and that students have a strong, supportive environment in the classroom.”  

Heather Reynolds, Nursing 

Heather Reynolds earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at University of Washington and her Master of Science in Nursing Education at Western Governors University.  

She started her nursing career in a burn center and has worked in critical care and emergency nursing. She was part of the opening of Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center.  

Reynolds said, “In all my roles, I have always had a passion for teaching.” 

She started teaching nursing at Clark as an adjunct professor in Fall 2015. She left to teach full time at Portland Community College, where she was on faculty for two years and director of nursing for three years. Desiring to return to the classroom, Reynolds returned to Clark College as a tenure-track faculty in nursing in September 2021.  

Reynolds is co-lead of the sixth quarter (final quarter) of Clark’s Nursing program. She teaches students a course on ethics and policy in healthcare and in their final clinical practicum. 

She said, “I enjoy volunteering and getting involved around campus to build community with colleagues and to support students. I enjoy ushering at Clark College theater productions, volunteering at graduation, and being a volunteer patient for the dental hygiene program students. I am also passionate about encouraging youth to consider a career in nursing and have been involved in several programs including Clark’s Healthcare Pathways Camp and the Alliance of Black Nurses Association of Oregon’s Mini Nurse Academy.”   

Teaching philosophy: “I am a nurse educator who is passionate about empowering future nurses to recognize their own value and worth and their capacity and duty to improve themselves, the lives of others, and the healthcare system to create a more equitable and just world. I do this through modeling authenticity, vulnerability, and continual personal and professional growth with empathy, humor, and grace. I strive to approach others with curiosity and care.”                            

 About Clark College  

Founded in 1933 and celebrating its 90th year, Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. It is a public community college offering more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves a wide range of students including high school students, displaced workers, veterans, parents, non-native English speakers, and mature learners. Approximately half of its students are in the first generation of their families to attend college.   

 About Clark College Board of Trustees  

Appointed by the Governor of Washington, the Clark College Board of Trustees consists of five members who serve a five-year term and must live in the college’s service district. The Board seeks to ensure the quality and relevance of college programs and provide stewardship of public resources. In this role, the Board is responsible for strategic planning; development and approval of college policies; and approval and oversight of the operating budget. The Board of Trustees meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Learn more.

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Attached Media Files: PDF of release with photos in place , Heidi Fay , Mackenzie Lovett , Heather Reynolds

Science on Tap -- Bees! Gardening, Citizen Science, and the WA Bee Atlas (Photo)
MakeYouThink - 03/27/24 9:16 AM
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Date: Wed, April 10th, 2024

Time: 7 pm

Location: Kiggins Theatre Vancouver, Wa

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: https://www.scienceontaporwa.org/events/kiggins_apr_10_bees/

When we hear ‘bee’ we often think of the European honey bee, but there are at least 600-700 species of bees in Washington and Oregon. Native bees are very different, but we know very little about their status. What flowers do they pollinate? Where and when do they nest? How can we use our gardens to support them?

Washington has implemented the Washington Bee Atlas (WaBA) to find out more. It was formed in 2023 and modeled after the successful Oregon Bee Atlas, which has added 220 bee species to their state list! These community science groups train volunteers to collect, pin, and label bee specimens. Many of the volunteers have no science or entomology background. They post data through the app iNaturalist, providing date, location, collector and host plant information. The specimens are then identified by professionals, deposited at WSU or OSU insect collections, and the data made public! This information is highly valuable to conservation efforts of all 600+ species of native bees known to occur in the PNW.

This Science on Tap will talk about native bee biology and general gardening guidelines, then give an introduction to Washington Bee Atlas and how it all works.

Dr. Karen Wright got her Master’s degree at OSU in Entomology (working on true bugs and beetles in hazelnuts), then moved to New Mexico where she started her career working on native bees. She developed a collection of over 600 species of bees from central New Mexico, and the long-term study is still ongoing with over 20 years of data. She was recently hired to develop and manage the Washington Bee Atlas. 


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




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State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation meets March 29 in Zoom Meeting
Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept. - 03/27/24 9:01 AM

Salem, Ore. – The State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) will meet March 29 on Zoom to consider a nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. The SACHP meeting is open to the public. 

Friday’s meeting agenda includes the hearing of one proposed nomination.

The business meeting on Friday will begin at 11:00 a.m. Anyone may listen to the meeting and instructions on how to attend electronically will be posted on the commission web page prior to the meeting. Registration is required to speak at the meeting, and is available online at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/Pages/Commissions.aspx#SACHP

On Friday, the committee will review the Malmgren Garage, Talent, Jackson County.

For specific hearing times, refer to the online agenda: www.oregonheritage.org (click on “Commissions & Committees” at top of page and look under “State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation”).

The SACHP is a nine-member governor-appointed citizen commission with credentials in many historic preservation-related fields. 

Nominations recommended by the SACHP go to the National Park Service, which maintains the Register under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966.

This effort aligns with the Oregon Historic Preservation Plan goal to increase the thematic diversity of Oregon properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It also supports the goals to include more voices and increase access to Oregon heritage that are part of the Oregon Heritage Plan

The conference call is accessible to people with disabilities. Special accommodations for the meeting may be made with at least three days of advance notice by calling (503) 986-0690. 

More information about the National Register of Historic Places process is online at www.oregonheritage.org.

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WPD Responds to Single Vehicle Crash
Woodburn Police - 03/27/24 8:17 AM

On 03/27/2024 at approximately 1:53 A.M. Woodburn Police Officers, Woodburn Fire District personnel and Woodburn Ambulance Service responded to a single vehicle crash that occurred at North Boones Ferry Road and Vanderbeck Lane.

Upon arrival, the driver, a 17-year-old Woodburn resident, was found deceased at the scene.  A 14-year-old male passenger was Life Flighted from the scene with life-threatening injuries to an area hospital. A third occupant, a 19-year-old male adult, was transported from the scene by medical personnel with non-life-threatening injuries.  Next of kin notifications have already been made.

It appears speed and alcohol were a factor in the crash.  Woodburn Police were assisted by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Crash Team and the investigation is ongoing.


PPB Gearing Up for Influx of Basketball Fans
Portland Police Bureau - 03/27/24 8:16 AM
Thousands of basketball fans are expected to follow eight teams to Portland this week for the 2024 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, and the Portland Police Bureau is gearing up to facilitate a safe experience for visitors.

Teams and fans are already arriving in Portland for the Sweet 16 and Elite 8 games that will be played at Moda Center between Friday, March 29, 2024, and Monday, April 1, 2024. Throughout the duration of the tournament games, PPB is committed to increasing its presence in and around Downtown Portland. Beginning Wednesday afternoon, PPB will be conducting high-visibility patrols around the team and fan hotels. In addition, some traffic officers will be escorting team buses around the city, and when not providing that service, the officers will be patrolling city streets. Supplementing these efforts will be PPB’s Entertainment Detail working in Old Town and Downtown, and Central Precinct officers and the Bike Squad on routine patrol in the Downtown core.

“It is wonderful that Portland is one of the host cities for March Madness,” said Chief Bob Day. “It is important that the teams, our visitors, and local basketball fans feel welcomed while enjoying the games and supporting local businesses. This is an opportunity to showcase our city, and PPB members will be out in the community as visible as possible to help assist in making this a positive and safe event.”

PPB would like to congratulate Stanford, North Carolina State, Texas, Gonzaga, USC, Baylor, UConn, and Duke on successful seasons up to this point. Additionally, PPB would like to welcome the teams and their fans to Portland for the Sweet 16 and Elite 8 tournament games.

###PPB###

Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team Officer Involved Shooting Investigation Release #8
Vancouver Police Dept. - 03/27/24 8:11 AM

Vancouver, Wash. – The Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team (SWIIRT), led by the Vancouver Police Department, is continuing the investigation of the officer involved shooting that occurred on February 20, 2024, involving deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

Results of DNA and firearms analysis are still pending from the Washington State Patrol Crime Lab. There is no new information to be released at this time.

At the completion of the SWIIRT investigation, the case will be forwarded to the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review.


Additional information will be released as it becomes available. 

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Benton County Commissioners to proclaim April 1-7 Public Health Week - Los Comisionados del Condado de Benton proclamarán la Semana de la Salud Pública del 1 al 7 de abril (Photo)
Benton Co. Government - 03/27/24 7:35 AM
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On Tuesday, April 2, Benton County Commissioners will proclaim April 1-7, 2024, Public Health Week in Benton County to celebrate the 29th year of National Public Health Week. This year’s theme is “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health.”

Benton County’s observance celebrates the leadership, dedication, and innovation of many partners throughout the county, including the County Health Department, other local jurisdictions, community-based organizations, health systems, and many more.

“We know that we can’t do this work alone. We rely on strong partnerships with community-based organizations and diverse community members who help make this work possible,” said Benton County Commissioner Chair, Xanthippe Augerot.

The proclamation reading will take place during the regularly scheduled Board of Commissioners Meeting at 9:00 am on Tuesday, April 2. The community is invited to attend in person at the Benton County Kalapuya building, virtually via Zoom, or via livestream through Facebook. All meeting details can be found on the County website at: https://boc.bentoncountyor.gov/events/april-2-2024-tuesday-board-meeting/

The timing of Public Health Week coincides with the release of the Robert Wood Johnson County Health Rankings and Roadmap 2024 National Findings Report. These rankings look at different factors and conditions that affect the health and well-being of county residents and are made up of four categories: health behavior, clinical care, social and economic factors, and physical environment.

According to the rankings, Benton County is faring better than the average county in the nation for health factors and outcomes. While the rankings are positive, Benton County is committed to focusing on the many opportunities to work on improving the health for all people who live, work, and play in Benton County, particularly for marginalized populations and for those who experience difficulty achieving optimal health.

Sara Hartstein, Interim Deputy Director of Public Health at Benton County said, “We have a lot of work to do! While the efforts of the Health Department are vital to sustaining and improving community health, it takes every person in Benton County to bring compassion, expertise, innovation, and care to our community.”

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El martes 2 de abril, los Comisionados del Condado de Benton proclamarán del 1 al 7 de abril de 2024 la Semana de la Salud Pública en el Condado de Benton para celebrar el 29.º año de la Semana Nacional de la Salud Pública. El tema de este año es "Proteger, conectar y prosperar: todos somos salud pública".

Este evento en el Condado de Benton celebra el liderazgo, la dedicación y la innovación de muchos socios en todo el condado, incluido el Departamento de Salud del condado, otras jurisdicciones locales, organizaciones comunitarias, sistemas de salud y muchos más.

“Sabemos que no podemos hacer este trabajo solos. Dependemos de sólidas relaciones con organizaciones y diversos miembros de la comunidad que ayudan a hacer posible este trabajo”, dijo el Presidente de los Comisionado del Condado de Benton, Xanthippe Augerot.

La lectura de la proclamación se llevará a cabo durante la reunión regular de la Junta de Comisionados a las 9:00 am del martes 2 de abril. Se invita a la comunidad a asistir en persona en el edificio Kalapuya del Condado de Benton, o virtualmente a través de Zoom o mediante la transmisión en vivo a través de Facebook. Todos los detalles de la reunión se pueden encontrar en el sitio web del condado en: https://boc.bentoncountyor.gov/events/april-2-2024-tuesday-board-meeting/

 La Semana de la Salud Pública coincide con la publicación del Informe Nacional de Resultados de la Hoja de Ruta y las Clasificaciones de Salud del Condado de Robert Wood Johnson 2024. Estas clasificaciones analizan diferentes factores y condiciones que afectan la salud y el bienestar de los residentes del condado y se componen de cuatro categorías: comportamiento de salud, atención clínica, factores sociales y económicos y entorno físico.

Según las clasificaciones, al Condado de Benton le está yendo mejor que al condado promedio del país en cuanto a factores y resultados de salud. Si bien las clasificaciones son positivas, el Condado de Benton se compromete a centrarse en las muchas oportunidades de trabajar para mejorar la salud de todas las personas que viven, trabajan y juegan en el Condado de Benton, particularmente para las poblaciones marginadas y para aquellos que experimentan dificultades para lograr una salud óptima.

Sara Hartstein, Subdirectora Interina de Salud Pública del Condado de Benton, dijo: “¡Tenemos mucho trabajo por hacer! Si bien los esfuerzos del Departamento de Salud son vitales para mantener y mejorar la salud de la comunidad, se necesita que cada persona en el Condado de Benton aporte compasión, experiencia, innovación y atención a nuestra comunidad”.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please call Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or email pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov




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Tue. 03/26/24
PeaceHealth Southwest receives $1 million in federal funding to support emergency department expansion (Photo)
PeaceHealth - 03/26/24 6:36 PM
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Project is part of $242 million in Congressionally Directed Spending secured by Sen. Patty Murray for multiple organizations across Washington state

Vancouver, Wash. – PeaceHealth Southwest is the recipient of a $1 million federal grant to support the facility’s Emergency Department expansion. 

The funding, made possible through the support of U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, was approved by Congress Friday, March 23, as part of its Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations package. In total, Congress allocated $242 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for Washington projects. As shared in a news release from Sen. Murray’s office, the funding package included allocations to protect and strengthen investments in “our kids’ education, people’s health, families’ pocketbooks, our national security, and so much more.”

In addition to $22 million from community support, this $1 million allocation for PeaceHealth Southwest will be used to help offset construction costs, furnishings, and equipment for the Community Health Hub, a unique initiative that will provide 24-hour non-medical care to Emergency Department patients experiencing behavioral health issues, addiction, homelessness, food insecurity, and domestic violence.

As part of the grant application submitted by PeaceHealth, community partners weighed in, supporting the need for onsite social services to meet the non-medical needs of patients – all under one roof.

“We thank Senator Murray for acknowledging the health care needs of our community,” said Tracey Fernandez, PeaceHealth Southwest interim chief executive. “As the busiest emergency department in a region that continues to grow, this expansion will allow us to continue providing quality emergency care in a state-of-the art facility while also bringing essential social services onsite. By treating the whole person – body and spirit – we are providing the right care, in the right way, at the right time.”

The PeaceHealth Southwest Emergency Department sees more than 75,000 patients a year and serves as the Level II Trauma Center for the region. As a part of its nonprofit Mission, PeaceHealth is called to provide comprehensive care for all, especially those who face barriers to health and wellness. 

“As Clark County’s largest employer, PeaceHealth is honored to serve as an anchor institution in collaboration with community-based organizations,” Fernandez said. “Our caregivers and providers work hard every day to uplift the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, and our community as a whole.”

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About PeaceHealth: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a not-for-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, a group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org.

 




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VFD PIO available for in person interview for bus accident
Vancouver Fire Dept. - 03/26/24 5:16 PM

This release is serving as notice that a Vancouver Fire Department PIO will be available tonight at 7 pm for in person interviews in regards to the school bus accident involving a child this morning. The location will be at Fire Station #10 at 1501 NE 164th Ave in Vancouver. 


Rose Sunrise Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Arson in Downtown Hillsboro (Photo)
Washington Co. District Attorney's Office - 03/26/24 4:59 PM
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HILLSBORO, Ore- On March 12, 2024, Rose Sunrise pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree, Arson in the First Degree, two counts of Criminal Mischief in the First Degree, Arson in the Second Degree, and Burglary in the Second Degree, stemming from a crime spree in downtown Hillsboro, Oregon. On March 26, 2024, Washington County Circuit Judge Janelle Wipper sentenced Sunrise, formerly known as Roel Leon, to 30 years in prison. Senior Deputy District Attorney Andrew Freeman and Deputy District Attorney David Pitcher prosecuted the case against the defendant. 

On December 4, 2021, the defendant broke into a business located in the Weil Arcade in downtown Hillsboro. The Weil Arcade was home to multiple small businesses serving the Hillsboro community. Once inside, the defendant stole several seemingly random items. A nearby surveillance camera captured footage of the defendant leaving the area with the stolen property. 

In the early morning hours of January 2, 2022, the defendant returned to the Weil Arcade, broke into a different business, and again stole miscellaneous property. However, this time the defendant set fire to the business before leaving. A security camera across the street captured the scene as the defendant watched the fire grow and recorded its progress on a phone. The defendant left shortly before a passing patrol officer spotted the flames and called for assistance.

The fire quickly spread throughout the complex and destroyed the Weil Arcade. Several businesses were destroyed and surrounding buildings in the downtown core were impacted. More importantly, the fire also took the life of Ronald Knapp, who investigators believe took shelter on the second floor of the Weil Arcade that night to escape the bitter cold. The next evening the defendant intentionally set two more fires in vehicles parked outside a nearby auto shop. Again, surveillance footage showed the defendant stoking the flames and then leaving before first responders arrived.

Officers with the Hillsboro Police Department immediately launched an investigation and quickly identified the defendant as the primary suspect. On January 5, 2022, they executed a search warrant on the defendant’s residence and found distinctive clothing and items matching those in videos of the suspect, as well as items stolen in the burglaries. After the arrest, the defendant admitted to burglarizing the Weil Arcade and setting the fires. 

These events significantly impacted many people in the Hillsboro community. The Washington County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the numerous victims, especially the family of Mr. Knapp, for their grace and patience throughout the court process. We also thank the community for its support of the affected businesses following this devastating fire. We would also like to acknowledge the extensive investigative efforts of the Hillsboro Police Department, particularly those of Detectives Michelle Hahn and Megan Townsend, as well as the heroic work of the Hillsboro Fire Department and all of the other assisting fire agencies.

The defendant will be immediately transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to begin serving this sentence. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6208/171054/Rose_Sunrise.pdf , 2024-03/6208/171054/Rose_Sunrise.png

UPDATE: Victim in Montavilla Neighborhood Shooting Identified (Photo)
Portland Police Bureau - 03/26/24 3:46 PM
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The individual shot and killed in the Montavilla Neighborhood has been identified as Jamirion Smith-Belhumeur, 18, of Portland. His family has been notified of his death. They provided the attached photo for public release, but they are requesting privacy at this time.

The Medical Examiner determined Smith-Belhumeur died of homicide by gunshot wounds.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Detective Travis Law at travis.law@police.portlandoregon.gov (503) 823-0395 or Detective Ryan Foote at ryan.foote@police.portlandoregon.gov (503) 823-0781 and reference case number 24-73410.

Photo description: Portrait of Jamirion Smith-Belhumeur

###PPB###

Original Message Below

One person is deceased following a shooting in the Montavilla Neighborhood.

On Monday, March 25, 2024, at approximately 4:25 p.m., East Precinct officers responded to reports of a shooting in the area of Northeast 93rd Avenue and Northeast Glisan Street. When officers arrived, they found an adult male suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite officers performing lifesaving measures, the victim died at the scene. No arrests have been made and no one has been detained.

The Portland Police Bureau’s Homicide Unit has responded to the scene to investigate. During the investigation, Northeast Glisan Street will be closed from Northeast 90th Avenue to I-205.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Detective Travis Law at travis.law@police.portlandoregon.gov (503) 823-0395 or Detective Ryan Foote at ryan.foote@police.portlandoregon.gov (503) 823-0781 and reference case number 24-73410.

The PIO is not responding to the scene. More information will be released when appropriate.

###PPB###



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Seven RHS students win 10 total awards at ESD 112's annual high school art show (Photo)
Ridgefield Sch. Dist. - 03/26/24 2:42 PM
Piper Gannon, “Chickadee in the pines”
Piper Gannon, “Chickadee in the pines”
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Last week, the ESD 112 hosted its annual Southwest Washington Regional High School Art Show, and seven student artists from Ridgefield High School took home a total of 10 awards! It all, 13 works of art by RHS students were submitted, and winners were announced last week via a virtual presentation.

To see a complete list of this year's winners, please visit https://www.esd112.org/news/excellence-in-art-announcing-the-2024-southwest-washington-regional-high-school-art-show-winners/. You can also watch the virtual awards presentation on YouTube here.
 

Regional Awards
These three students qualified for the Washington State Art Show by scoring in the top 15 of all artwork submitted to the Southwest Washington Regional High School Art Show. These students now advance to the 51st Annual Superintendent's High School Art Show, an annual event co-hosted by OSPI and the Washington Art Education Association (WAEA). High school students from all across the state participate in this artistic celebration each year. Regional award winners also receive $12,000 in scholarship funding from the Pacific Northwest College of Art.

ESD 112 Awards
These two students received ESD 112 awards for scoring in the top 35 of all artwork submitted to the Southwest Washington Regional High School Art Show. ESD 112 award winners in the 11th or 12th grades receive $12,000 in scholarship funding from the Pacific Northwest College of the Arts. Winners in the 9th or 10th grades receive a $100 scholarship for participation in PNCA’s Pre-College Summer Intensive Program.

Honorable Mention
These two students received awards in recognition of their outstanding scores for creativity, composition, and technique. Regional award winners receive $4,000 in scholarship funding from the Pacific Northwest College of Art.

Staff Choice Award
This award is given to only one work of art each year. ESD 112 staff choose one work of art to purchase for permanent display in their office.

Central Washington University Department of Art + Design Scholarship Awards
These two students were selected to receive $2,000 scholarships for future enrollment at CWU. Only eight total student artists were honored with this award.

Congratulations to all of the students who participated, and best of luck to the three students who are headed to the state competition!




Attached Media Files: Piper Gannon, “Chickadee in the pines” , Lilly Adams, “Missing You” , Emma Ulmer, “Sticks and Stones” , Emiliana Newell, “Self-Portrait, Birthday” , A. Andraschko, “Stygian Boatman” , Amelia Natterstad, “Mapletown” , Adara Grieco, “Rising reflection”

West Slope Apartment Fire Displaces Multiple Families (Patient and Investigation Update; Date Correction) (Photo)
Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue - 03/26/24 2:40 PM
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Just after 2 p.m. Monday, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue firefighters were dispatched to a reported commercial fire in the 8800 block of Southwest Cashmur Lane in West Slope. Multiple callers to 911 reported seeing gray smoke coming from the roof of the multifamily dwelling. Additional reports said there were occupants still trapped in the building.

En route to the scene, crews reported seeing a large column of black smoke. Upon arrival, crews encountered flames coming through the roof and heavy black smoke billowing from the structure. Firefighters quickly worked to extinguish the fire while also initiating a search of the units for occupants. Crews searched the affected apartment and nearby apartments for potential victims. No other individuals or pets were found inside the units.

The incident was upgraded to a second alarm to bring additional resources to the scene. TVF&R crews were assisted by firefighters from Portland Fire & Rescue. Firefighters had the fire under control at 3:20 p.m. Initially, it was reported that four patients were treated on scene and of the four, two were transported to a local hospital for further treatment. In total, seven patients were transported and three patients sought treatment at a local area hospital by personal vehicles.

A TVF&R fire investigator responded to the scene and determined that the fire originated in the lower unit and spread from there. Due to the extensive damage, an extended fire investigation will be ongoing. TVF&R was also assisted on scene by Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies, American Medical Response, Portland General Electric, and NW Natural Gas. The American Red Cross is assisting families displaced by the fire.

 

TVF&R approves the use of all images included with this release for the purpose of news dissemination.

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Woodburn Police Undertake Theft Detail at Outlet Mall
Woodburn Police - 03/26/24 1:50 PM

On 3/22/2024 the Woodburn Police Department conducted a focused enforcement, theft detail, at the Woodburn Outlet Mall.  During this detail, the Woodburn Police Department worked with Loss Prevention Officers and made the below arrests during the detail.  The actions of the Woodburn Police Department and Loss Prevention Officers resulted in the recovery of approximately $2500.00 in Merchandise.

Antonio Welch (2/18/1987)– Arrested for Theft I

David Razon (8/12/1992) – Two Arrest Warrants

Shaelynne Martinez Garrett (9/24/04) – Theft III

Jayson Jones (11/28/01) – Theft III and Two Arrest Warrants


Craft Club at Washougal High School Bridges Generations Through Art (Photo)
Washougal Sch. Dist. - 03/26/24 1:19 PM
An example of student artwork created in craft club, which will be transformed into a custom sticker.
An example of student artwork created in craft club, which will be transformed into a custom sticker.
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Washougal, Wash - Washougal High School (WHS) students come together every other week at the after-school craft club, a unique space where students share their passions and learn new skills. Community volunteers and school staff teach crafting skills like knitting, cross-stitching, crocheting, sketching and more to high school participants at each meeting. This January, volunteers with the East County Citizens Alliance (ECCA) facilitated knitting lessons for the teen craft club.

“I love knitting with a group of people, no matter what age,” said Annie Soutter, East County Citizens Alliance (ECCA) volunteer. Soutter mentored craft club members learning to knit this winter. “Getting to have teenagers in the group is not so common, and it just feels really special to have their unbridled energy, creativity, and enthusiasm. It’s really important to create these kinds of multi-generational groups.”

WHS School Counselor Lexie Groves and Associate Principal Mary Andreotti started the club earlier this school year. Each time the club meets, students engage in creative projects and build community. “[Craft club] has really become my favorite part of the month to plan. Getting to invest and spend time with our students while relaxing and creating new projects is both fun and rewarding,” said Groves. 

“The mentors were really nice and understanding. They helped us walk through the steps and gave both positive and constructive feedback. The mentors could recognize when the project wasn’t going quite right and provide help,” said Riley, a WHS student and Craft Club participant. Evey, Washougal High School student and a member of the craft club, echoed the same sentiments.

Students take a leadership role by brainstorming topics for future months like creating slime and clay modeling. Students also promote the club to their peers, including managing the club’s social media channel. “We have really built a community, and continue to see new faces all the time,” said Groves. 

“I love watching the students’ intense focus and determination when they are working really hard to learn something. And then, seeing that sparkle of accomplishment in their eyes when it all clicks - it’s just really special. It makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside every time,” said Soutter.

Crafting can bring people of all different ages, personalities, levels of experience, and perspectives into the room. The craft club at Washougal High School promotes intergenerational community building by creating opportunities for students to build strong relationships and a passion for learning alongside adult community volunteers.

“Craft club offers a variety of healthy coping skills through crafting to deal with the stress and challenges in teens’ lives. Beyond the crafts, this club also gives students a space to build healthy relationships with each other and staff,” said Groves.  

Riley said her “favorite part is being in a safe and lively place... that students create.”

Volunteers help make great things happen in the craft club and across all Washougal schools. Community members interested in volunteering with the craft club should contact Lexie Groves at lexie.groves@washougalsd.org. For more information about volunteering in Washougal School District, visit the district volunteer page. 




Attached Media Files: An example of student artwork created in craft club, which will be transformed into a custom sticker. , Riley Williams uses reference material to create custom sticker designs in craft club. , Samantha Zoeller (left) and Riley Williams (right) create custom stickers in WHS craft club , Evey Oscar creates custom stickers in Craft Club

Keizer Station Fight Ends in Arrests
Keizer Police Dept. - 03/26/24 1:00 PM

Keizer Police Detectives have arrested four juveniles and one adult on charges stemming from an altercation that occurred on March 15th around 7:05 pm in front of Keizer Station’s Massage Envy.  Keizer case 24-3982.

The four Salem juvenile residents included two fourteen-year-old males and two fifteen-year-old males. Each were charged with riot and assault in the third degree.  All were taken to the Marion County Juvenile Department and released to intake staff.

A twenty-year-old male Salem resident was also charged with riot and assault in the third degree.  He was transported to the Marion County Correctional Facility and released to intake staff. 

The victim, a twenty-six-year-old male Salem resident was transported to the Salem Emergency Department and was later released.

This case has been forwarded to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office for review and prosecution. Further questions regarding this case should be directed to their office.


Share your strength: Give blood or platelets with the Red Cross
American Red Cross - Cascades Region - 03/26/24 1:00 PM

Exclusive Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire + Red Cross T-shirt for coming to give through April 7

 

Portland, OR (March 26, 2024) — This spring, the American Red Cross asks donors to help defend the blood supply by giving blood or platelets now to combat a monstrous fact: only 3 out of 100 people donate blood. That’s why we’re teaming up with Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures to celebrate the epic new film, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, and inviting donors to rise together and give blood. When donors share their strength by coming to give March 25-April 7, they’ll get an exclusive Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire and Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. (Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/GXK.) 

 

In recent weeks, the Red Cross has seen an encouraging increase in the blood supply, but blood and platelet donation appointments remain vital this month. People of all blood types – especially those with type O blood – are critical to ensuring hospital shelves can be replenished as soon as possible.

 

To book a time to give, visit RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS. Additionally, all who come to give April 8-28 will get a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,000 gift cards. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Spring for details. 

 

Additional upcoming blood donation opportunities March 27-April 15

 

March 27

Fred Meyer, 3500 SE 22nd Ave, Portland, OR, 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM

Lloyd Center Mall, 2201 Lloyd Center, Portland, OR, 12:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Portland Blood Donation Center, 3131 N Vancouver Ave., Portland, OR, 11:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Blood Donation Center, 1860 Hawthorne Ave NE, Salem, OR, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

RRMC-Smullin Center, 2825 East Barnett Rd, Medford, OR, 10:30 AM - 04:00 PM

 

March 28

Milwaukie Community Center, 5440 SE Kellogg Creek Dr., Milwaukie, OR, 12:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Virtual Supply, 5825 SW Arctic Dr, Beaverton, OR, 9:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Blood Donation Center, 3131 N Vancouver Ave., Portland, OR, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Rogue Credit Union, 1370 Center Dr., Medford, OR, 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

 

April 1

Northwest Christian Church Tigard, 13405 SW Hall Blvd, Tigard, OR, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Starbucks, 3590 SW Cedar Hills Blvd, Beaverton, OR, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Starbucks, 3348 Gateway St., Springfield, OR, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Riverside Seventh Day Adventist Church-Washougal, 463 N. Shepherd Rd, Washougal, WA, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

 

April 5

Christ the King Lutheran Church, 11305 SW Bull Mountain Rd, Tigard, OR, 1:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Carmax, 13750 SE Johnson Rd, Milwaukie, OR, 11:30 AM - 05:00 PM

Blood Donation Center, 3131 N Vancouver Avenue, Portland, OR, 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints River Rd, 3132 River Rd, Eugene, OR, 12:00 PM - 05:00 PM

Coastal Farm & Ranch Eugene, 2200 W. 6th St, Eugene, OR, 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM

 

April 9

U.S. Investors International, 12665 SW 69th, Portland, OR, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Pacific Audiology Clinic, 5200 S Macadam Ave Ste 200, Portland, OR, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Blood Donation Center, 1174 Progress Drive Suite 102, Medford, OR, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Blood Donation Center, 5109 NE 82nd Ave, Vancouver, WA, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

 

April 10

Eastmoreland Golf Course, 2425 SE Bybee Blvd, Portland, OR, 12:30 PM - 5:30 PM

 

April 13

West Linn Lutheran Church, 20390 Willamette Dr, West Linn, OR, 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM

Sikh Center of Oregon, 17514 SW Scholls Ferry Rd, Beaverton, OR, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

 

April 15

Biomedical Information Communications Center, 3280 SW Sam Jackson Road, Portland, OR, 12:30 PM - 6:00 PM

Elks Lodge 1989, 3464 SW 106th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 12:00 PM - 05:00 PM

Fred Meyer, 3805 SE Hawthorne, Portland, OR, 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Lausmann Annex, 200 S Ivy Street, Medford, OR, 9:30 AM - 03:00 PM

 

  

How to donate blood

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

 

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

 

Amplify your impact − volunteer! 

Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check-in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience. 

 

Volunteers can also serve as transportation specialists, playing a vital role in ensuring lifesaving blood products are delivered to nearby hospitals. For more information and to apply for either position, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday

 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood and is the primary blood supplier to 65 hospitals throughout Washington and Oregon; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

 

# # #

 

 

 

© 2024 Legendary and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved GODZILLA TM & © TOHO CO., Ltd.

 


Clark County Sheriff's Office sees success with Co-Responder Program in first 90 days (Photo)
Clark Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/26/24 11:48 AM
Clark County Crisis System
Clark County Crisis System
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In December 2023, Sea Mar Community Health Centers launched the Co-Responder Program with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). The program intends to assist Clark County Deputies, often called to respond to community members in crisis with underlying behavioral health issues. The program was modeled after successful programs currently utilized by other law enforcement agencies in Washington, including the Vancouver Police Department. 

Co-responders include dedicated behavioral health professionals available for direct scene responses or phone consultations with deputies dispatched to calls involving people in crisis. If they respond to the scene, Co-responders can make assessments, share a more profound knowledge of available community resources, and coordinate care with other providers. Deputies can work alongside Co-responders and, if needed, will stay on the scene to ensure the safety of all involved. Depending on the situation, Co-responders may continue the intervention without the deputy, allowing the deputy to return to service.   

The goals of this program include addressing behavioral health crisis needs for individuals in Clark County with an appropriate and timely response, including 911 calls and referrals from Mental Health Professionals and Peers. The program intends to provide options for interventions and dispositions in the crisis response system for calls that are routed through 911 and provide increased capacity to CCSO Deputies by allowing for a behavioral health response team to remain on a call as the disposition while the CCSO deputy can re-deploy. 

Data from the program's first three months indicate regular use by CCSO Deputies, with an average of approximately 16 calls per month to Co-responders.

Data from the first 90 days of the Co-Responder Program:

 Calls Calls turned to outreach Avg. min. from the start of the call to arrival on the scene 
December 2023 19 11 33 
January 2024 24 
February 2024 19 11 33 
TOTAL 47 25 30 

Acceptance of the resources provided by Co-responders is voluntary and at the discretion of the person in crisis. Deputies continue to investigate whether criminal legal actions would be appropriate or whether the person in crisis meets the criteria for police detainment under the Involuntary Treatment Act. 

"I firmly believe that our Co-Responder Program, uniting law enforcement with mental health professionals, is not just a partnership but a lifeline for our community. It's not only about enforcing the law; it's about ensuring compassion and understanding prevail in moments of crisis,” said Clark County Sheriff John Horch. “This program is essential in bridging the gap between justice and mental health care, reaffirming our commitment to safety and well-being for all.” 

Carelon Behavioral Health is funding the pilot program, and Sea Mar Community Health Centers is providing the program. Carelon Behavioral Health and funds from the Clark County Mental Health Sales Tax will collaboratively fund the program in the future. The Clark County Council recently allocated these specialized tax funds to the 2024 Annual Budget. 

The following are summaries of calls and outcomes from the first three months of the Co-Responder Program: 

  • Deputies responded to a call for a pregnant, suicidal woman with mental health issues.  Co-responders attempted to de-escalate the situation, but she was uncooperative. They assisted deputies in the determination to place her on a police hold.  The woman was uncooperative and was transported to a hospital.  The Co-responders assisted with documentation and communication.  The woman’s family was grateful for the response, believing the first responders saved her from killing herself and her unborn child. 
  • Deputies responded to a suicide attempt in the lobby of a mental health clinic. The individual had previously been under a police hold and had been transported to the clinic but did not meet the acceptance criteria. Co-responders arrived and helped assess the situation to determine whether a police hold was the best option and communicated with hospital staff. 
  • Deputies contacted a woman living in a vehicle and refused to remove it from a Hazel Dell neighborhood despite months of complaints from citizens and warnings from police. Co-responders contacted the woman to help her with housing options. Following that contact, the vehicle left the area. 
  • Deputies and Co-responders arrived at a scene to assist a woman who wanted to go to treatment. Co-responders provided her with a planning session to help in her detox and mental health treatment. 

If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, community resources can be reached through 988 at the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or through the Southwest Washington Crisis Line at 1-800-626-8137

About Carelon Behavioral Health 

As the only national organization to serve as a Behavioral Health Administrative Services Organization (BHASO) in Washington State, Carelon Behavioral Health oversees a safety net that provides crisis services, mental health, and substance use disorder services (MH/SUD), and housing subsidies to qualified residents. Serving more than 1.6 million residents across eight counties, Carelon Behavioral Health delivers high-quality, culturally competent, cost-effective, and community-based care regardless of insurance status or income level. Our services take a person-centered approach to care, including assessment, intervention, and stabilization efforts promoting resiliency, rehabilitation, and recovery.  

About Sea Mar Community Health Centers 

Sea Mar Community Health Centers, founded in 1978, is a community-based organization committed to providing quality, comprehensive health, human, housing, educational, and cultural services to diverse communities, specializing in service to Latinos in Washington State. Sea Mar’s network of services includes more than 90 medical, dental, and behavioral health clinics and a wide variety of nutritional, social, and educational services, including Mobile Crisis services in Clark County since 2018. 




Attached Media Files: Clark County Crisis System

Clark County seeks community input about protecting, restoring water quality in local rivers, lakes and streams (Photo)
Clark Co. WA Communications - 03/26/24 11:32 AM
2024-03/517/171040/CW_survey_web_graphic_3.jpg
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Vancouver, Wash. – The Public Works Clean Water division is asking residents for input about which programs, activities and services are most important to them via a survey opening March 25. This information will be used to guide planning efforts to update the division’s service offerings. The survey asks residents why rivers and lakes are important to them and how we should protect and improve water quality. It also asks how much they value various services provided by Clean Water, like street sweeping and leaf disposal coupons. 

The survey is open March 26 through April 22 and is available online on the Public Works website. Residents can also take the survey over the phone or request a paper copy by contacting Alice Millward at d@clark.wa.gov">alice.millward@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.5267, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and every other Friday. The survey is available in English, Spanish, Russian and Ukrainian. The survey is anonymous, but those who participate can choose to provide their name and contact information to be entered into a prize raffle. 

The survey and additional information can be found at clark.wa.gov/public-works/stormwater

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. 

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language. 

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

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Attached Media Files: 2024-03/517/171040/CW_survey_web_graphic_3.jpg , 2024-03/517/171040/CW_survey_web_graphic_2.jpg , 2024-03/517/171040/CW_survey_web_graphic_1.jpg , 2024-03/517/171040/Clean_Water_survey_flyer.jpg

Board on Public Safety Standards and Training Meeting Scheduled 4-25-2024
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 03/26/24 11:17 AM

BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

 

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 25, 2024, in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Shelby Wright at (503) 378-2191 or shelby.wright@dpsst.oregon.gov.

Effective Jan. 1, 2024, the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training will be live streaming all public meetings via YouTube. Meetings will no longer be streamed on Facebook. To view the Board's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

 

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Meeting Minutes

     Approve minutes from the January 25, 2024, Meeting

3. Fire Policy Committee

a. Fire Policy Committee Update – Brian Henson, Deputy Director

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

A. William Comeford, DPSST No. 34996; Portland Fire & Rescue – No Action

Unanimous vote with two (2) recusals to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 28, 2024.

B. Curtis Deetz, DPSST No. 31371; Portland Fire & Rescue – No Action

Unanimous vote with three (3) recusals to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 28, 2024. 

C. Committee Appointments

Fire Policy Committee

  • Shawn Olson – Oregon Fire Marshals Association Representative, Appointment to the FPC, 1st term effective August 20, 2024.

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

a. Police Policy Committee Update – Scotty Nowning, Chair

b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair

c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Matthew English, Chair

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

A. Ruben Benavidez, DPSST No. 50462; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution– Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024. 

B. Randy Bocchi, DPSST No. 45164; Klamath County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

C. Chandler Bolton, DPSST No. 56778; Linn County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 22, 2024.

D. Kodie Carroll, DPSST No. 64023; Jackson County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

E. Tina Earhart, DPSST No. 61184; DOC/Santiam Correctional Institution – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

F. Roderick Hogan, DPSST No. 60731; Washington County Consolidated Communications 911 Agency – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on February 7, 2024.

G. Stephen Naber, DPSST No. 54246; Lane County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 22, 2024.

H. Joshua Patterson, DPSST No. 45007; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

I. Caden Powell, DPSST No. 54126; DOC/Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

J. Susan Ramos, DPSST No. 61253; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

K. Robert Rosales, DPSST No. 36499; Springfield Police Department – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 22, 2024.

L. Ernest Slye IV, DPSST No. 61466; Oregon State University Department of Public Safety – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on February 7, 2024.

M. Travis Stice, DPSST No. 60272; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

N. Timothy Sundin, DPSST No. 39688; DOC/Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

O. Law Enforcement Memorial Wall Nomination; George M. Lowe, (EOW 1919) – Ashland Police Department

Determine eligibility for addition to Oregon’s Law Enforcement Memorial Wall

P. Committee Appointments

Police Policy Committee

  • Megan Townsend– Non-Management Law Enforcement, Appointment to the PPC, 1st term effective April 28, 2024.
  • Kevin Dresser– Non-Management Law Enforcement, Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective April 25, 2024.
  • Rob Wood– Public Member, Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective July 26, 2024.

Corrections Policy Committee

  • Michael Mays– Non-Management Corrections, Appointment to the CPC, 1st term effective April 25, 2024.
  • Joshua Aldrich– Oregon Jail Command Council Representative, Appointment to the CPC, 1st term effective April 28, 2024.
  • John Frost–Non-Management Corrections Employed by DOC, Re-appointment to the CPC, 2nd term effective April 28, 2024.

Telecommunications Policy Committee

  • Brandon Hamilton– Oregon Fire Chiefs Association Representative, Appointment to the TPC, 1st term effective July 28, 2024.
  • Travis Ash– Oregon State Sheriffs Association Representative, Re-appointment to the TPC, 2nd term effective July 28, 2024.

5. Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

a. Private Security Investigator Policy Committee Update – Dan Lenzen, Chair

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

A. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) Chapter 259 Division 59

Adopting Permanent Rules for the Private Security Entity Licensing Program

Five (5) to four (4) vote to recommend to the Board by the PSIPC on February 20, 2024.

B. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0130

Related to Executive Managers Providing Contract Services

Eight (8) to one (1) vote with one abstention to recommend to the Board by the PSIPC on February 20, 2024.

C. Committee Appointments

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

  • Samantha Schrantz – Private Investigator, Re- appointment to the PSIPC, 2nd term effective July 28, 2024.

6. Legislative Actions

a. Proposed Legislative Concept Request

Fire Policy Committee Membership Housekeeping

Jennifer Howald

b. Proposed Legislative Concept Request

Deferred Professional Standards Cases and DPSST Jurisdiction

Jennifer Howald

c. Policy Option Packages: Placeholder – Agency Director, Phil Castle

7. Agency Updates - Agency Director, Phil Castle

8. Next Meeting Date: July 25, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.
 

Administrative Announcement

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


County Climate Project Environmental Justice Coalition to meet April 1
Clark Co. WA Communications - 03/26/24 11:13 AM

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Climate Project Environmental Justice Coalition will meet at 3:30 pm on Monday, April 1. 

The Environmental Justice Coalition (EJC) consists of 15 community-based organizations. The group is helping the county meet the public engagement and environmental justice requirements of new state Climate Change Planning legislation, in which the county is now required to add a Climate Element to its Comprehensive Plan. The legislation emphasizes that planning and policy decisions related to climate change do not impact us all in the same way. The EJC is one of three advisory groups supporting the county’s Climate Project.

EJC meetings are typically held at 3:30 pm the first Monday of each month. Meetings are in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation options. Attend in Room 698 of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or join virtually through information provided at: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/environmental-justice-coalition.

The meeting is open to the public and includes a brief public comment period. A recording of the meeting will also be available for viewing afterwards.

To learn more about county climate planning, sign up for project updates, submit a comment, or learn about future environmental justice coalition meetings, please visit the project website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/climate-change-planning.

The county’s Climate Project is being funded by a state grant. The Washington Department of Commerce climate planning grant is supported with funding from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA). The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Information about the CCA is available at www.climate.wa.gov.


Traffic Alert: Turner Road Between Kuebler Blvd and Deer Park Drive to Close April 1 (Photo)
City of Salem - 03/26/24 11:00 AM
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Salem, Ore. — Drivers in Southeast Salem should be aware of a road closure on Turner Road SE, south of Boone Road SE and north of Deer Park Road SE beginning April 1, 2024. The closure will continue through April 15, 2024. 

During construction, northbound traffic will be detoured to Deer Park Road SE continuing to the Aumsville Highway. Drivers are encouraged to use Delany Road to Commercial Street as an alternate route.

The construction is part of the new 900,000 square-foot Dollar General Development currently under construction and is necessary to connect the development to new utility infrastructure in the area. The Dollar General property will be a dry goods and cold storage distribution, dispatch, and administration center for the company.

Details:

  • Location: Turner Road S from Deer Park Dr SE to Boone Rd SE
  • Date and Time: Monday, April 1, 2024, continuing to April 15, 2024.
  • Affected Areas: Deer Park Dr SE to Boone Rd SE
  • Caution: Drivers are urged to use Deer Park Dr SE and Aumsville Highway as detours, follow all traffic signage, and watch for workers in the area.

The Active Construction Map provides up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem.  To report issues, contact the City of Salem’s Public Works Dispatch Center at 503-588-6211 or vice@cityofsalem.net">service@cityofsalem.net.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1081/171028/Turner_Rd_SE_Closure.png

VFD responds to school bus accident involving a child (Photo)
Vancouver Fire Dept. - 03/26/24 10:49 AM
Photo credit: VFD
Photo credit: VFD
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/5157/171037/thumb_Ellsworth_bus_vs_ped_(10).jpeg

Just after 07:15 this morning the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to SE Ellsworth RD and SE 10TH street for the report of a public-school bus accident involving a child on a bike. The first fire apparatus arrived within minutes and found a 9-year-old male entangled in his bicycle under the rear axle of the bus. More resources were requested to the scene including a VFD ladder truck and the technical rescue team. These specific resources carry specialized tools that can stabilize, support, and lift larger vehicles. Fire crews on scene used wooden blocks to support the bus while lifting it off the child using struts that extend hydraulically.  The child was removed from under the bus and transported emergently to a Portland area pediatric hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

The Vancouver Police Department arrived to provide traffic control. Kim Kapp, the VPD Public Information Coordinator, relayed that the bus driver was not cited. Refer to Kim Kapp for further questions involving the Vancouver Police Department.




Attached Media Files: Photo credit: VFD , Photo credit: VFD , Photo credit: VFD , Photo credit: VFD , Photo credit: VFD , Photo credit: VFD , Photo credit: VFD , Photo credit: VFD , Photo credit: VFD , Photo credit: VFD

Jason Holland and Jenny R. Stadler appointed to Oregon Arts Commission (Photo)
Oregon Arts Commission - 03/26/24 10:48 AM
Jason Holland
Jason Holland
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1418/171036/thumb_Jason_Holland.jpg

Salem, Oregon – Jason Holland, the executive director of the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, and Jenny R. Stadler, the executive director of PHAME Academy, have been appointed to the Oregon Arts Commission by Governor Tina Kotek. 

Jenny and Jason are community-centered arts advocates who tirelessly work to elevate the arts in Oregon,” said Commission Chair Subashini Ganesan-Forbes. “The Arts Commission will gain tremendously from these two remarkable organizational leaders because they are also deeply committed to their own individual artistic practices. As the Commission continues to fine tune how we serve artists, arts organizations and all Oregonians, having artists at the leadership table is vital.”

At Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, Holland works to celebrate, develop and promote community arts in addition to managing and operating the Newport Performing Arts and Visual Arts Centers. He has worked in the arts nonprofit sector for 20 years with broad-based operational and programmatic leadership at both large and small arts organizations. Holland currently sits on the boards of the Economic Development Alliance of Lincoln County, Pride Newport and the Lincoln County Cultural Coalition. His artistic background is in instrumental and vocal music, as well as in theater – where he has directed plays and musicals for many years.

“Being appointed by Governor Kotek as an Oregon Arts Commissioner brings with it a profound responsibility –,” said Holland, “to nurture the creative soul of Oregon, to help Oregonians weave the vibrant tapestry of our cultural heritage throughout this beautiful state, and to advocate tirelessly for the transformative power of the arts in all of our communities. Serving Oregon in this capacity is truly an honor.”  

Stadler has been the executive director of PHAME Academy since 2017, working to create more equitable arts opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through PHAME's school, performances and outreach programs. After receiving her Ph.D. in psychology, she left academia to work in the nonprofit sector, running a start-up education organization and later fundraising, developing curricula and supporting organizations in long-range planning. As a long-time choral singer and theater fan, Stadler’s heart has always been in the arts, and when an opportunity arose to move into arts administration in 2013, she “jumped and hasn't looked back,” she said. Jenny lives with chronic illness and is also a singer and board member for the Choral Arts Ensemble of Portland. 

“I’m deeply honored to be appointed to the Oregon Arts Commission and thrilled to serve alongside this group of dedicated and thoughtful leaders,” said Stadler. “While we’ve come so far in our state in bringing equity, diversity and inclusion into the arts conversation; disability still is so often left behind, and I am overjoyed to see the state choosing to center disability within its arts work. I’m looking forward to elevating the voices of our community—and of communities statewide—because everyone deserves access to the arts, at every level.”

Holland and Stadler begin their four-year terms immediately.

                

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of Business Oregon (formerly Oregon Economic and Community Development Department) in 1993, in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission’s expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development. 


The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. More information about the Oregon Arts Commission is available online at artscommission.oregon.gov.




Attached Media Files: Jason Holland , Jenny R. Stadler

OHA Reproductive Health Program launches Abortion Access website
Oregon Health Authority - 03/26/24 10:32 AM

March 26, 2024

Media Contact: Larry Bingham, 971-239-6499, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA Reproductive Health Program launches Abortion Access website

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Reproductive Health Program at Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has launched a new website that makes it easier for people to seek abortion care information and services.

The Abortion Access in Oregon website, viewable at oregon.gov/abortion, includes webpages and links with current and accurate information about accessing abortion services in Oregon, including:

  • Information About Abortion – Describes different types of abortion services, including some frequently asked questions.
  • Legal Rights and Privacy – Explains people’s legal and privacy rights to abortion in Oregon.
  • Where to Get an Abortion – Includes a list of abortion providers in Oregon, as well as resources for accessing abortion services outside of Oregon.
  • Paying for an Abortion – Provides information about different options to help cover the cost of abortion services.
  • Abortion Access Plan – Describes OHA’s program to cover abortion services for people who have health insurance through Providence, or whose religious employers provide insurance that does not cover abortion.
  • Abortion Support – Includes resources for travel and other related support, as well as resources related to emotional support before, during and after an abortion.

“The new Abortion Access in Oregon website helps us reaffirm to people in Oregon that abortion remains legal and protected in our state, and that anyone who comes to our state for an abortion, regardless of immigration status, has the legal and protected right to that abortion service, not just Oregon residents,” Governor Tina Kotek said.

“As challenges to women's reproductive freedom mount across the country, OHA remains staunchly committed to protecting access to the full range of reproductive health care -- including and especially abortion, fertility services, and contraception -- for all those who live in and visit our state,” said OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi. “The foundation of access is knowledge: of your rights, of available services, of the nuts and bolts of obtaining care. This website takes us one step closer to sharing that knowledge, and enabling greater access to protected care.”

The Abortion Access in Oregon website was created in collaboration with community, clinical and state partners to ensure the information it contains is relevant to, and accessible for, people seeking abortion care in Oregon.

OHA’s Reproductive Health Program, based at the state Public Health Division, has asked community, clinical and state partners to share the website link with their colleagues and staffs, as well as with community members and patients they serve.

###


Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee meets April 8
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/26/24 9:09 AM

SALEM, Ore. — The Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee will meet virtually on Monday, April 8, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

  • Welcome and introductions
  • CBM website updates
  • CBM rule revisions
  • Training providers and curriculum development
  • Instructor guide
  • Field certification books
  • Updates
    • Past and future course deliveries
    • Legislation
    • ODF prescribed fire policy development

The meeting is open to the public to attend virtually. There will be a period for public comment. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting y.berry@odf.oregon.gov">Shelby Berry at 503-949-5181.

View more information on the CBMAC webpage.


Upcoming Army Rotary Wing Late Night Flying on Northern Oregon Coast
Oregon Military Department - 03/26/24 8:45 AM

SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon National Guard’s Camp Rilea Training Center, near Warrenton, Oregon, will host active-duty Army rotary wing night training missions over March 27-29, 2024. The visiting unit is located at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, near Tacoma, Washington.  

Army rotary wing aircraft will conduct nighttime air operations on Camp Rilea’s Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) training site in order to maintain pilot and crew proficiency necessary to support real world military operations.  

“Camp Rilea Range Operations appreciates the support of the local community and understands the impact night military operations can have,” said Maj. Steven Maughan, Camp Rilea Range Officer.  “We want to provide advance notice to our community members about the increased noise from military aircraft during this particular period.” 

While night flying operations will conclude by midnight each night at Camp Rilea, training may continue throughout the night in the surrounding areas.    

Camp Rilea Range Operations Range Status, to include scheduled life fire ranges and night operations, can be found on the Oregon Military Department website at https://www.oregon.gov/omd/rilea/Pages/Range-Operations.aspx 

 

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Clackamas Fire partners with Willamette View for Advanced Firefighter Training (Photo)
Clackamas Fire District - 03/26/24 8:18 AM
Willamette View training
Willamette View training
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Clackamas Fire is proud to announce a partnership with Willamette View, a nationally accredited, not-for-profit Continuing Care Retirement Community founded in 1955. Located on a 27-acre campus south of Portland, Oregon, Willamette View offers a full continuum of housing and health care services to seniors age 55 and over and employs approximately 400 individuals.

As part of Willamette View's campus expansion, several houses slated for demolition have been made available for firefighter training purposes. Clackamas Fire will conduct scenario-based training exercises, including simulated fire attacks and search evolutions, with the assistance of theatrical smoke machines to create realistic conditions. Beginning in April, more advanced training activities such as roof ventilation, window access for searches, and fire victim rescue utilizing theatrical smoke and rescue manikins will commence as the houses near their demolition date.

The partnership with Willamette View presents an invaluable opportunity for Clackamas firefighters to enhance their skills in real-world scenarios. Training in unfamiliar structures is crucial for readiness, and Clackamas Fire is grateful to Willamette View for providing us with this training opportunity. This is enhancing the skills of responding firefighters and is ultimately making our community safer by helping firefighters be ready for the next emergency response!

While the training takes place, there will be an increased presence of fire apparatus and crews in the area. Clackamas Fire advises the public to exercise caution when passing by and to be aware of crews working on the roadway. Additionally, members of the public are welcome to observe the training exercises but are urged to maintain a safe distance and to make contact with on-site crews to ensure they are utilizing a safe viewing area.

The media and the public are welcomed to come and observe the training which will be taking place at 1801 and 1803 Silver Springs Rd. in Milwaukie today, March, 26 beginning at 9:00 am, as well as April 8th beginning at 9:00am. 

##




Attached Media Files: Willamette View training , Willamette View training , Willamette View training , Willamette View training

PCC Foundation fundraiser on April 27 supports students on road to success (Photo)
PCC - 03/26/24 8:09 AM
Scene from 2023 PCC Foundation Gala
Scene from 2023 PCC Foundation Gala
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/40/171027/thumb_Scene-from-2023-PCC-Foundation-Gala.jpg

PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College Foundation will host its annual gala, “The Road to Success: That’s Where You’ll Find Me,” presented by Comcast, on Saturday, April 27, at the Hyatt Regency Portland at the Oregon Convention Center.

Local drag performer, community activist, and PCC instructor Poison Waters will guide the audience down the road to success at “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”-themed fundraiser. The event will highlight the inspiring stories of three PCC students as they follow their dreams over the rainbow of higher education and on to future careers that support their families and our community. PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings will honor the contributions to student success by presenting the 2024 PCC Patron Award to Congressman Earl Blumenauer, Senator Michael Dembrow, and PCC Emeritus Board Member Denise Frisbee. 

For over a decade the community has come together to raise critical resources for PCC students during this annual event. The PCC Foundation is committed to building pathways to opportunity for those underserved in our community – and anticipates raising more than $350,000 in donations during the gala to provide scholarships for PCC students.

“We are thrilled to return as the presenting sponsor for PCC’s annual gala and support an event that expands access to opportunity for individuals in our region,” said Marion Haynes, vice president of external affairs at Comcast and PCC Foundation board member. “Together, we can make the dreams of education possible and build a brighter future for our region that benefits generations to come.”

For 2023-24, the PCC Foundation granted $2.2 million in scholarships to 1,500 students. Through fundraising at this spring’s gala, the Foundation hopes to award even more students in need next academic year. One such scholarship the Foundation plans to award in 2024-2025 is a designated Comcast scholarship in honor of the company’s $50,000 sponsorship.

“I love seeing our community come together to celebrate and invest in students,” said PCC Foundation Executive Director Christina Kline. “We are so grateful to our partners, like Comcast, who are committed to paving the road to success.”

For tickets or more information, visit pcc.edu/gala

 

About the PCC Foundation:

The PCC Foundation is a nonprofit organization that enriches lives and strengthens the region through support of education at PCC. The Foundation’s vision is that all students in the region have access to an excellent education at PCC and the support needed to succeed, regardless of their ability to pay. A tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the PCC Foundation mobilizes private support for student scholarships and educational programs. To find out more, call (971) 722-4382 or visit pcc.edu/foundation.

About Comcast Corporation:
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. 

About Portland Community College: Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 50,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning. Visit PCC news on the web at http://news.pcc.edu/




Attached Media Files: Scene from 2023 PCC Foundation Gala , Dr. Adrien Bennings at 2023 gala.

Portland Fire responds to 3rd alarm fire overnight. (Photo)
Portland Fire & Rescue - 03/26/24 5:24 AM
2024-03/549/171025/IMG_4552.jpg
2024-03/549/171025/IMG_4552.jpg
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/549/171025/thumb_IMG_4552.jpg

Portland Fire responds to 3rd alarm fire overnight.

Portland Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a commercial fire located in the Madison South Neighborhood at just before 2 AM. The location is a single-story strip mall with a closed restaurant space occupying 1/3 of the structure on the western edge and a large Asian Market occupying the remaining 2/3 of the 20000 square foot building. A 3rd alarm fire ensued that will be a total loss of the structure. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The first arriving engine company to the Pacific Market complex reported smoke showing from the roof of the structure over the top of the closed restaurant space. An offensive fire attack was directed by the command officer with crews entering the space that had many of the windows boarded up with plywood. Interior crews communicated a report of moderate heat and thick smoke with the members having a difficult time finding the source of the fire. With thick brown smoke pushing out of the double entry doors, the chief who had assumed command called for all interior crews to withdraw from the structure and directed a defensive fire attack with large water streams to address the fire from the safety of the outside of the structure. The chief also requested a second alarm response to the fire which doubles the number of firefighters to nearly 60 members. A truck officer who was on the roof at the time the withdraw order was placed communicated that fire had run the entire length of the roof structure and agreed a defensive strategy was appropriate.

The 3 trucks on scene surrounded the structure with water lines being connected to the hydrants to provide the needed water for the operation. The water pressure required for multiple aerial master streams to successfully operate challenged the available water supply. Many area fire hydrants were tapped with an engine placed at many of these hydrants to increase the water pressure greater than that available at the hydrant itself. This committed many engines to hydrants and trucks to provide adequate water pressure for the task at hand. As the hose lines from the fire hydrants were being put into place the growing flames began to impinge on the overhead powerlines causing a safety concern. Pacific Power was requested to the scene to cut the electricity running through the lines for the safety of those working in the area.

Twenty minutes into the incident, the flames had yet to breach into the market from the adjacent space but there was heavy smoke pushing out of the front door indicating heavy fire activity overhead. Crews were removing items from the entry way of the market to allow for quick deployment of handheld hose lines if the fire overhead was controlled by the aerial operation and the command officer changed tactical choices from defensive to offensive fire attack. With the intensity of the fire growing and concerns that there may be wall collapse all fire hoses and personnel were pulled away from the building for safe operations.

The fire had now run the roof of the structure and ignited the fire load present on the inside of the market with all the food and other supplies on the interior. Approximately 8 homes were temporarily evacuated with concerns for the safety of the residents in the homes along the eastern edge of the building. With 20’ flames from the top of the structure located closely to these homes, a 3rd alarm was requested to be certain to have enough personnel on hand in the event of fire spread to additional structures. The 3rd alarm companies were being directed to the eastern side of the building upon arrival to be ready to address the possibility of fire spread to the homes. A few large exposure lines were successfully put in place to prevent any extension of the fire across the street to the homes. Residents were escorted back into their homes after 15 minutes once it was apparent that the fire threat was reduced, and it was safe to shelter in their residences.

Shortly after the arrival of the 3rd alarm companies the fire was considered under control and no longer a threat to extend to different buildings. The fire was recalled 90 minutes into the incident with all companies working on scene. There were no reported injuries, and no one will be displaced due to the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Portland Fire would like to thank the dispatchers at BOEC and the members of Pacific Power for their help in during this fire incident.

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Attached Media Files: 2024-03/549/171025/IMG_4552.jpg , 2024-03/549/171025/IMG_4559.jpg , 2024-03/549/171025/IMG_4566.jpg , 2024-03/549/171025/IMG_4573.jpg , 2024-03/549/171025/IMG_4572.jpg , 2024-03/549/171025/IMG_4570.jpg , 2024-03/549/171025/IMG_4569.jpg

Mon. 03/25/24
Clark County Medical Examiner's Office - MEDIA RELEASE
Clark Co. WA Communications - 03/25/24 4:53 PM

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This release provides updated information in the investigation related to the body found burning on a downtown Vancouver sidewalk. Cause and manner of death, other significant conditions, and how the injury occurred have been updated; this information was pending at the time of the previous media release. 

 

This individual was found on 12/20/2023 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Coles, Demetrius Williams   Age: 30 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): unknown

 

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Thermal injuries and smoke inhalation

Manner of death:  Undetermined

Other significant conditions: Acute fentanyl and methamphetamine intoxication

Place of injury: Public sidewalk

How injury occurred: Became engulfed in flames while intoxicated; uncertain origin of fire

 

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

Media release issue date: 03/25/2024 (previous media release date: 12/21/2023)


Oregon City Police Searching for Armed Robbery Suspect: (Photo)
Oregon City Police Dept. - 03/25/24 4:34 PM
2024-03/1388/171012/Groat2.png
2024-03/1388/171012/Groat2.png
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1388/171012/thumb_Groat2.png

Update:  03/25/2024 4:23 p.m.

Thanks to the public’s assistance Mr. Groat was just located and taken into custody.


On March 22nd, 2024, at about 11:26 p.m. the Oregon City Police Department responded to an armed robbery at the Circle K gas station located at 19791 Highway 213 in Oregon City, Oregon.  The employee was not physically injured during the robbery.  A coordinated effort was made to locate the suspect, who was later identified as 42-year-old Thomas James Groat, however, officers were unable to locate him. OCPD detectives continued the investigation during the weekend.  

On March 25th, 2024, at about 10:41 a.m. while doing follow-up on the case, an OCPD detective observed Mr. Groat on foot near Molalla Ave and Gaffney Lane.  Additional resources were called to the scene and a search was done for Mr. Groat.  During this search, a request was made to CCOM (dispatch) to have residents in the search area shelter in place.  Mr. Groat was not located and the shelter in place directive was lifted. 

Mr. Groat is a white male adult, who is approximately 5’6’’, 150lbs, and has long shoulder length brown hair.  Mr. Groat is considered armed and dangerous. 

If you see Mr. Groat, do not attempt to contact him and call 911.   Reference OCPD case number 24-005678.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1388/171012/Groat2.png , 2024-03/1388/171012/Thomas_Groat_.jpeg

Tsunami Awareness Week is March 24 to 30: Be prepared!
Oregon Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries - 03/25/24 4:30 PM

PORTLAND, Ore. – Exploring the Oregon coast this spring break? Take time to plan for an earthquake and tsunami before your adventure.     

March marks the anniversaries of two significant earthquake and tsunami disasters that impacted the Oregon coast: the March 11, 2011, Tohoku event in Japan and the March 27, 1964, Alaska megathrust earthquake and tsunami. Both events produced ‘distant’ tsunami that were triggered thousands of miles away, but eventually reached the Oregon coast ~9.5 and 4 hours after the earthquakes, respectively. Because those earthquakes occurred far from Oregon, Oregonians would not have felt the ground shaking prior to the arrival of their associated tsunami. 

Of greater concern on the Oregon and Washington coasts is a locally generated megathrust earthquake and tsunami triggered by movement along the Cascadia Subduction Zone, located ~50 miles offshore. In such an event, residents and visitors will feel strong ground shaking, potentially lasting several minutes, prior to the arrival of a tsunami that would reach the Oregon coast between 10-30 minutes later. “A Cascadia subduction zone earthquake could happen anytime – even during vacations,” says Oregon State Geologist Ruarri Day-Stirrat. “Plan now to be ready no matter where you are.” DOGAMI scientist Jonathan Allan adds: “The recent Tohoku Japan earthquake and tsunami showed us how destructive a locally generated subduction zone earthquake and tsunami could be, and that Oregonians need to be prepared for its eventuality.” 

Residents and visitors can prepare for tsunami by becoming familiar with Oregon’s tsunami evacuation maps, developed by DOGAMI. The maps are available at the Oregon Tsunami Clearinghouse (https://www.oregontsunami.org) and viewable online using the Nanoos viewer (https://nvs.nanoos.org/TsunamiEvac). The maps provide information about potential tsunami inundation zones for both distant and local tsunamis and information about how fast people need to travel to reach high ground and “beat the wave.” 

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management encourages individuals, families, and communities to take steps to “Be 2 Weeks Ready” for any emergency or disaster, including earthquakes and tsunami. Being 2 Weeks Ready means having an emergency plan and enough supplies for you and everyone in your household, including pets, to survive for at least two weeks after a disaster. It also means being informed: Review available information about earthquakes and tsunami from state and local sources, sign up to receive local emergency alerts at https://oralert.gov/, and make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are activated on your mobile phone. 

Additional resources to help Oregonians learn about earthquakes and associated hazards: 

Oregon Tsunami Clearinghouse: Access to a wide variety of tsunami information, including evacuation maps, maritime brochures, educational materials, and planning guidance. https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/tsuclearinghouse/Pages/default.aspx

NANOOS Tsunami Evacuation Zones: Tsunami evacuation zone maps along the Oregon and Washington coasts.  https://nvs.nanoos.org/TsunamiEvac

Oregon Department of Emergency Management:  Learn more about what to do in event of an earthquake, and find advice and guides on how individuals, communities, and businesses can prepare.  https://www.oregon.gov/oem/hazardsprep/pages/earthquakes.aspx

ShakeAlert:  An early-alert system that can send notifications to mobile devices and emergency alert systems in the event of a potentially damaging earthquake. https://www.shakealert.org/ 

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Skamania County Sheriff's Office 2023 Employees of the Year (Photo)
Skamania County Sheriff's Office - 03/25/24 2:58 PM
2024-03/7426/171017/2023_Employees_of_the_Year.jpg
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The Skamania County Sheriff’s Office 2023 Employees of the Year were recently recognized at an awards ceremony, celebrating their outstanding efforts and accomplishments. Civil Deputy Nancy Allen, Officer Kenia Van Pelt, and Deputy Nick Beacock were selected by their peers for their extraordinary service to both the Sheriff’s Office and county they serve. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/7426/171017/2023_Employees_of_the_Year.jpg

Skamania County Sheriff's Office Announces Two Recent Corrections Officers Academy Graduates (Photo)
Skamania County Sheriff's Office - 03/25/24 2:44 PM
2024-03/7426/171016/Hickman_Dostal_Grad.jpg
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http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/7426/171016/thumb_Hickman_Dostal_Grad.jpg

The Skamania County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the recent graduation of two Corrections Officers. Officers Ryley Hickman and Patrick Dostal successfully completed the 400 hour academy course in Burien, Washington and graduated on 03/20/2024.  




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/7426/171016/Hickman_Dostal_Grad.jpg

Media Invited: Officer Gregston Returns to Full Duty After Traffic Crash
Tigard Police - 03/25/24 2:43 PM

Members of the media are invited to talk with Officer Travis Gregston tomorrow, as he returns to full duty after being in an on-duty traffic crash.

Officer Gregston, who rides a motorcycle as part of the Tigard Police Traffic Safety Unit, was responding to a priority call on March 12th with his lights and siren on. As he came through the intersection at SW Hall Blvd and SW Hunziker Rd, a driver pulled in front of him in a Chevrolet Tahoe and the two collided. The driver was not hurt. Officer Gregston went to the hospital as a precaution and has a minor knee injury. His motorcycle was heavily damaged in the crash.

The driver told officers she heard the siren, but didn’t see anyone coming. As he returns to full duty on a motorcycle, the Tigard Police Department would like to talk about the larger issue of safety and what to do when you hear sirens – especially as a reminder that the siren you hear may be coming from a first responder on a motorcycle.

Video of the crash from Officer Gregston’s body worn camera will also be provided.

WHEN: Tuesday, March 26th at 11:30 AM

WHERE: Tigard Police Department (13125 SW Hall Blvd)

Please RVSP to the PIO if you plan to attend.

 

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Levy Lid-Lift Roundtable
Clark Co. Fire Dist. 6 - 03/25/24 2:24 PM

We would love for you to check out our Levy Lid Lift Roundtable this Wednesday.  That's where we can answer questions about the upcoming lid lift on the August ballot.  It's at Station 63 in Salmon Creek, 1303 NE 136th Street, starting at 6 p.m.  And if folks can't attend in person they can check it out live on our website:  ccfd6.org 


Human Remains Located In Skamania County Near Sunset Falls Campground
Skamania County Sheriff's Office - 03/25/24 1:48 PM

On 03/18/2024, at 9:45 P.M., the Skamania County Communications Center received a call from a mountain biker who located a human skull near the Sunset Falls Campground, within Skamania County. Due to the time of the call received and lack of daylight, response to the area was delayed. On 03/19/2024, law enforcement personnel responded to the area, locating the skull, along with additional human remains. Positive identification has not been made at this time and the investigation is still on-going. However, based on the scene location and other identifiers, the remains are believed to be those of John Guffey who was reported as a missing person nearly one year ago. Guffey’s van was located in the same vicinity and, despite several organized searches for him, Guffey was not located. Based on the circumstances and scene evidence, there is no perceived risk to public safety involving the death of this individual. 


UPDATE: Bicyclist Dies Following March 12 Crash
Portland Police Bureau - 03/25/24 11:17 AM
The Portland Police Bureau regrets to announce the bicyclist injured in the March 12th crash near Southwest Alder Street and Southwest Third Avenue has died.

On Monday March 18, 2024, the bicyclist, identified as Jonathan V. Henderson, 40, of Portland, died at a local hospital from injuries sustained in the crash.

The preliminary investigation reveals that the cyclist entered the intersection against a red light and was struck by a sport utility vehicle (SUV) that had a green light. The driver has been cooperative. No arrests have been made or citations issued.

###PPB###

Original Message Below

On Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at 9:31 p.m., officers from the Central Precinct responded to a crash near the intersection of Southwest 3rd Avenue and Southwest Alder Street. Officers arrived to find a crash between a bicyclist and a sport utility vehicle (SUV). The bicyclist was transported to an area hospital with life threatening injuries. The driver of the SUV remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation.

The Portland Police Bureau Major Crash Team responded to the scene to investigate. During the investigation the streets in the area were closed but are now open.

If anyone has information about the incident, please contact crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov, attention Traffic Investigations Unit, and reference case number 24-61345.

###PPB###

Traffic Alert: Intersection at McGilchrist Street SE and 22nd Street SE to Close April 1 for Bond Project Construction (Photo)
City of Salem - 03/25/24 11:00 AM
Map of McGilchrist Closure
Map of McGilchrist Closure
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1081/171003/thumb_McGilcrest_22nd_Street_Closure_Map.png

Salem, Ore. — The City of Salem is informing drivers who use McGilchrist Street SE that the intersection at 22nd Street SE will be closed to traffic beginning April 1, 2024. The closure will continue through July 2024. 

This project is partially funded through the 2022 Safety and Livability Bond project approved by the voters and will: 

  • enhance traffic flow
  • increase pedestrian and bicycle safety
  • improve stormwater infrastructure to protect homes and businesses from flooding

During the closure, drivers are advised to follow designated detour routes and use caution while traveling near work zones. Traffic congestion is expected and drivers in the area should expect some delays.

Details:

       Location: McGilchrist Street SE at 22nd Street SE

       Date and Time: Monday, April 1, 2024, continuing to July 2024.

       Affected Areas: The McGilchrist Street closure will include travel lanes and sidewalks within 650 feet of the intersection.

       Caution: Drivers are urged to use 12th Street, 25th Street, Madrona Street, and Mission Street as detours, follow all traffic signage, and watch for workers in the area.

Find details about the McGilchrist Street Project or other Safety and Livability Bond Projects at the City of Salem’s website. The Active Construction Map provides up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem.  To report issues, contact the City of Salem’s Public Works Dispatch Center at 503-588-6211 or vice@cityofsalem.net">service@cityofsalem.net.




Attached Media Files: Map of McGilchrist Closure

Oregon Department of Corrections and Oregon Corrections Enterprises Partner to Provide Work Release Program
Oregon Dept. of Corrections - 03/25/24 10:51 AM

Oregon Corrections Enterprises (OCE) is honored to be selected by the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) to facilitate work release partnerships. OCE proudly announces its first work release partnership with Pacific Pine Products Inc., located in Lakeview, Oregon. Woodworking industry jobs pay above a livable wage, and the local labor shortage has created a high demand for jobs of this nature. As independent research shows, successful work training opportunities, like the OCE/Pacific Pine Products Inc. partnership, are critical for rehabilitation and successful re-entry into the community.

Adults in custody will be screened for community safety and must have a willingness and desire for self-improvement. They will be transported from the Warner Creek Correctional Facility (WCCF) to the local factory. Pacific Pine Products will train the participants for a wide variety of jobs. Participants will learn and develop highly valued technical and general employment skills which will assist their re-entry into society. Per federal guidelines and authorized by the Oregon Constitution, participants will receive hourly wages from OCE as part of the Prison Industry Enhancement Certification Program. 

  • There will be a celebration of the collaborative partnership on April 2, 2023, 9:30 am at Pacific Pine Products, located at 17634 Highway 395, Lakeview, OR. 
  • Media interested in attending can contact Sam Snyder, sam.m.snyder@doc.oregon.gov, 541-947-8215.

Pacific Pine Products, Inc. is a family-owned business in operation since 1988. They design and build custom doors for residential and commercial properties – including wooden interior doors, custom entry doors, exterior residential doors, and rustic closet doors.

DOC oversees a network of 12 state prisons in Oregon. DOC protects public safety, holds offenders accountable, and requires them to take personal responsibility both for their crimes and for their behavior within DOC institutions. The Oregon Constitution and DOC allow for rehabilitation or reformation through programs and services. This combination ultimately contributes to successful reintegration to Oregon’s communities.

Oregon Corrections Enterprises was established through the passage of Ballot Measure 68 by the people of Oregon with the purpose of helping DOC meet its constitutional mandate created by Measure 17. OCE, the former DOC Corrections Industries program, was authorized as a semi-independent state agency whose finances are completely separated by statute from DOC. OCE receives no direct taxpayer dollars. Instead, OCE is funded entirely through sales of its products and services.

 

####


Six Oregon communities receive grants from Oregon Community Trees to boost Arbor Month celebrations (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/25/24 10:29 AM
A dozen Oregon white oak trees like this one will be planted in Lake Oswego thanks to a grant from Oregon Community Trees. Five other Oregon cities from Redmond to Rogue River and Dallas to Pendleton are also getting small grants coinciding with Oregon Arbor Month in April.
A dozen Oregon white oak trees like this one will be planted in Lake Oswego thanks to a grant from Oregon Community Trees. Five other Oregon cities from Redmond to Rogue River and Dallas to Pendleton are also getting small grants coinciding with Oregon Arbor Month in April.
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1072/171008/thumb_Quercus_garryana_014.JPG

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Community Trees (OCT) is helping boost Oregon Arbor Month celebrations in six Oregon communities this year thanks to grants the non-profit organization is giving out this spring. Holding a public celebration of Arbor Day is a condition for maintaining Tree City USA status from the national Arbor Day Foundation. 

OCT Board member Morgan Holen coordinates the grant giving. She said Tree City USA communities receiving grants from OCT this year are:

  • Coburg
  • Dallas
  • Lake Oswego
  • Pendleton
  • Redmond
  • Rogue River

“We’re happy to be funding Arbor Day events in every part of the state from the Willamette Valley to eastern and southern Oregon,” said Holen. “These events build awareness of the importance of trees to communities and engage residents in direct, memorable ways that build support for urban forests.”

Holen said grants range from $350 to $720. The smallest grant goes to buy commemorative T-shirts for Coburg elementary school tree planters. The largest goes to Lake Oswego to buy 12 Oregon white oak trees to be planted in the Woodmont Natural Area. The planting will help replace trees lost in the wake of the January 2024 wind and ice storm.

This is the first year the City of Dallas is receiving a grant. OCT is fully funding the City’s request to offer free to the public two, 2-hour sessions of “forest bathing” – stress-reduction led by a Certified Forest Therapy Guide in a forest setting in Delbert Hunter Arboretum.

Rogue River will use its grant to buy a Japanese snowbell tree, shovels, rakes, a reusable canopy and children’s art contest supplies and take‐home gifts for a tree-planting ceremony at the city arboretum in Palmerton Park. 

Pendleton is using its grant to purchase larger and more diverse species of trees seedling than ever to distribute at its annual Arbor Day tree seedling giveaway. The City estimates around 500 participants will attend their event. 

The City of Redmond is also receiving an OCT grant for the first time. Redmond will hold a fuels-reduction work party in the Dry Canyon City Park, and will use OCT funds to buy T-shirts with a juniper-themed educational design for Heart of Oregon volunteer youth during the event.

About Oregon Community Trees

Oregon Community Trees is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 whose mission is to promote healthy urban and community forests through leadership, education, awareness, and advocacy. OCT serves as the Oregon Dept. of Forestry’s advisory board on urban forestry issues.

# # #




Attached Media Files: A dozen Oregon white oak trees like this one will be planted in Lake Oswego thanks to a grant from Oregon Community Trees. Five other Oregon cities from Redmond to Rogue River and Dallas to Pendleton are also getting small grants coinciding with Oregon Arbor Month in April.

Joshua Michael Best Sentenced to 90 Months in Prison for Attempted Murder (Photo)
Washington Co. District Attorney's Office - 03/25/24 10:02 AM
2024-03/6208/171007/Best_Joshua_Michael.jpg
2024-03/6208/171007/Best_Joshua_Michael.jpg
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/6208/171007/thumb_Best_Joshua_Michael.jpg

HILLSBORO, Ore- On March 22, 2024, Joshua Michael Best pleaded guilty to Attempted Murder in the Second Degree with a firearm. Washington County Circuit Court Judge Brandon Thompson sentenced the defendant to 90 months in prison. Senior Deputy District Attorney Allison Brown prosecuted this case. 

On August 20, 2022, the defendant went to the Sunset Strip in Washington County with a woman named Heather Lundy. He and Ms. Lundy assaulted a woman inside and were forced to leave by an employee working security. Mr. Best told the employee he was going to shoot up the establishment. As he was driving away, he aimed a handgun in the direction of the employee and fired several rounds before leaving the scene. The defendant is a convicted felon and is not allowed to possess weapons. 

Deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded. Bullet strikes to the building and a vehicle were discovered as well as several casings. Detectives were able to identify Mr. Best as the shooter. On September 6, 2022, the defendant was located and arrested in Portland. He had the firearm in his possession and tried to conceal it from police. Additional detective work revealed further evidence connecting the defendant to the shooting. 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office acknowledges the work of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, including lead detective Shannon Wilde, and the assistance of the Portland Police Bureau. The defendant will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to begin serving his sentence. He is ordered to serve three years of post-prison supervision upon his release. Heather Lundy previously pleaded guilty to Assault in the Fourth Degree for her role in this incident. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6208/171007/JOSHUA_MICHAEL_BEST.pdf , 2024-03/6208/171007/Best_Joshua_Michael.jpg

Crime spree suspect arrested by Vancouver Police (Photo)
Vancouver Police Dept. - 03/25/24 9:48 AM
2024-03/385/171006/Suspect_On_Wires.jpg
2024-03/385/171006/Suspect_On_Wires.jpg
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/385/171006/thumb_Suspect_On_Wires.jpg

Vancouver, Wash. – On March 23, at approximately 5:15 p.m., Vancouver Police responded to the 600 block of W Evergreen Blvd. for the report of a vehicle prowl. The victim reported an unknown male (later identified as Romando. E. Stanley) was removing items (power tools) from his vehicle and fled the area prior to police arrival. The victim of the vehicle prowl told police he saw the suspect enter a yard in the 500 block of W Evergreen Blvd. and take a bike from in front of the residence. A neighbor of the bike theft victim chased after the suspect, who dumped the bike in the street and took off on foot. As police were responding to the previous crimes, an officer was dispatched to the 900 block of Main St. for the report that a male had entered the business, taken the cell phone one of the employees and when the employee tried to get the phone back, he punched the employee in the chest and fled on foot. While officers were doing an area check to locate the suspect, they were dispatched to 607 Washington St. for the report that a male was on the roof throwing bricks down onto the sidewalk, which caused property damage to several buildings. VPD crisis negotiators attempted to get the male to come down off the roof without success. The male then attempted to cross the street using telephone lines and held himself on the lines for approximately 45 minutes. Negotiators continued their attempts to get the male to come down safety and, in an effort, to help protect him from falling onto the street, a Vancouver Fire engine was parked underneath to lessen his fall. He eventually did lose his grip on the wires and fell onto the fire engine. He quickly jumped up and off the engine and was taken into custody by police without incident at approximately 7:02 p.m. 

Romando E. Stanley was identified as the suspect in the vehicle prowl, bike theft and robbery. After an evaluation at the hospital, he was booked into the Clark County Jail for Robbery II, Theft II, Theft III, and Malicious Mischief. 

These series of incidents utilized significant resources for an extended period of time and included multiple officers from Vancouver Police Patrol, a VPD UAS, Crisis Negotiators and K9 as well as Vancouver Fire and PUD personnel and caused significant disruption in the downtown area where streets were closed throughout the duration of the incident. 

 

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Attached Media Files: 2024-03/385/171006/Suspect_On_Wires.jpg

Deadline approaching for Oregon State Fire Marshal sparky award nominations (Photo)
Oregon State Fire Marshal - 03/25/24 7:54 AM
2024-03/1062/171000/Golden_Sparky.jpg
2024-03/1062/171000/Golden_Sparky.jpg
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1062/171000/thumb_Golden_Sparky.jpg

SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon State Fire Marshal is calling on Oregonians and local fire agencies to submit their nominations for the prestigious Golden and Silver Sparky Awards. The awards recognize outstanding achievements in fire prevention and public safety education. These awards honor the dedication and commitment of people and organizations working to create safer communities.

The Golden Sparky is awarded to a fire service member or agency demonstrating exemplary efforts in fire prevention or public safety education. The Silver Sparky recognizes the remarkable contributions of civilians or civilian agencies demonstrating exemplary efforts in fire prevention or public safety education.

Nominations for these awards are open until April 1, 2024. To nominate deserving candidates, simply submit a nomination form along with a detailed explanation and examples showcasing the nominee's exceptional achievements.

For more information and to access the nomination form, please visit the OSFM Sparky Award webpage or contact us at licaffairs.osfm@osfm.oregon.gov">publicaffairs.osfm@osfm.oregon.gov.

Don't miss this opportunity to recognize those who go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities. Submit your nominations and help us celebrate the remarkable contributions of individuals and agencies in fire prevention and public safety education.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1062/171000/Golden_Sparky.jpg

Sun. 03/24/24
Disturbance downtown ends with a man falling onto a fire engine. (Photo)
Vancouver Fire Dept. - 03/24/24 9:26 AM
Man standing on Fire Engine
Man standing on Fire Engine
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/5157/170999/thumb_3.jpg

At 1800 on 03/23/2024 the Vancouver Fire was dispatched to help the Vancouver Police Department with a subject on the roof of 114 W 6th St in Vancouver, WA.  VPD requested the fire department’s ladder truck to gain access to the roof.  An adult male there was throwing bricks, glass and other materials from the roof which was damaging property and endangering both the public and first responders.  The Vancouver Battalion Chief requested Northwest Natural Gas and Clark Public Utilities to make sure no gas or electricity issues could escalate the situation.  The male went out onto communication wires (not electrical) that crossed above the street.  The street was shut down and Fire Engine 1 was repositioned to potentially catch him if he should fall.  After approximately 45 minutes on the wires above the street he fell onto Engine 1.  He quickly got to his feet.  Vancouver Police were able to talk him into getting down from Engine 1 and he was taken into custody.  He was later transported by American Medical Response to a local hospital for evaluation. 

 

Any further questions regarding this call should be directed to The City of Vancouver Police Department Public Information Officer Kim Kapp. 

kim.kapp@cityofvancouver.us




Attached Media Files: Man standing on Fire Engine , 2024-03/5157/170999/2.jpg , Man on wires

Fatal Crash - HWY 202 - Clatsop County
Oregon State Police - 03/24/24 8:18 AM

Clatsop County, Ore. 22 Mar. 24- On Friday, March 22, 2024, at 11:15 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Hwy-202, near milepost 3.5, in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound BMW 328, operated by Alexander Campuzano Luna (22) of Seaside, left the roadway for unknown reasons, overturned, and came to rest upside down in a shallow body of water. 

The solo occupant of the BMW was declared deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately 6.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is unknown at this time, however speed is being considered a contributing factor.

OSP was assisted by the Clatsop County Sheriff's Office, Seaside Fire, Cannon Beach Fire, Olney-Walluski Fire, and ODOT.


Sat. 03/23/24
Early Morning House Fire Displaces Four in Rural Silverton (Photo)
Silverton Fire District - 03/23/24 7:47 PM
Silverton Fire 2
Silverton Fire 2
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/3068/170996/thumb_Abiqua_fire_2.jpeg

At 3:34 am today Silverton Fire District responded to a residential structure fire at 16829 Abiqua Road NE Silverton. The caller reported hearing a popping noise, smelling smoke and immediately alerted the other occupants to evacuate.  A Silverton Fire District Battalion Chief, while enroute, observed a glow in the sky and requested an upgrade to a 2nd alarm. This ensured adequate resources would be dispatched to the fire, including additional water tenders that needed to shuttle water to the scene due to the lack of fire hydrants in the rural area. A long driveway lay of large diameter supply 5” hose was deployed almost 1000 feet long  with a fire engine at the main highway pumping to supply water up the hill to the fire scene. This engine was supplied by 12 water tenders shuttling water from several fill sites in the area.

The first arriving units encountered a large 2-story home that had smoke and flames coming through the west side of the roof.  A third alarm was called for at 4:38 am to bring additional water tenders.

As soon as firefighters arrived, they began an aggressive fire attack,  checking for fire extension  and performing  primary search for victims on all floors.

While battling the fire, crews determined that the lightweight truss construction had been compromised by the fire and was unsafe for crews to be inside.  The incident commander ordered all crews to exit the structure prior to the roof and floor structures becoming unstable and transition to fighting the fire from the outside.

Unfortunately, the home and its contents were destroyed.  Thankfully, the residents were able to evacuate on their own and were not injured.   The occupants of the home are being assisted by the Red Cross with temporary housing needs.

One firefighter was taken to Silverton Hospital Emergency Department for evaluation of an injury and has since been released.

Fire crews were on scene for almost 10 hours and the cause of the fire is currently unknown and under investigation at this time.

Several partner agencies assisted Silverton Fire District including Mt. Angel, Monitor, Marion County, Drakes Crossing, Woodburn, Aurora, Hubbard, Molalla, Fire Districts, Woodburn Ambulance Company, METCOM 911, Red Cross and PGE.

Units on scene:

4 chief officers, 7 engines, 12 water tenders, 2 support service units, 43 Silverton Fire personnel assisted by numerous partner agency personnel.




Attached Media Files: Silverton Fire 2 , Silverton Fire1

Multi-Agency Stolen Vehicle Operation Results in Recovery of Stolen Vehicles and the Apprehension of Wanted Subjects (Photo)
Portland Police Bureau - 03/23/24 6:15 PM
Roll Call
Roll Call
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/3056/170995/thumb_SVO_032224_Roll_Call.jpg
The latest Stolen Vehicle Operation (SVO) resulted in multiple stolen vehicle recoveries, arrests, and illegal firearms recovered.

On Friday, March 22, 2024, officers assigned to Portland Police Bureau’s East and North Precincts participated in a multi-agency stolen vehicle operation with the Gresham Police Department, Port of Portland Police Department, Multnomah County District Attorney’s Auto Theft Task Force, PPB’s K9 Unit, and PPB’s Air Support Unit. Vancouver Police Department (Washington) also coordinated with Portland Police in cases where drivers eluded police across the river. PPB’s updated pursuit policy was utilized again allowing for the successful apprehension and capture of drivers eluding lawful police stops.

The collaborative effort resulted in the recovery of 10 stolen vehicles. Additionally, 18 people were arrested, 11 drivers eluded police, and six vehicle pursuits were initiated resulting in successful captures.

This operation was initially focused in Northeast Portland, including in Port of Portland jurisdiction near the Portland International Airport, and then moved to the area of North Portland including Jantzen Beach and Delta Park.

Members of the crowdsource Facebook group “PDX Stolen Cars” helped police locate and recover two unoccupied and two occupied stolen vehicles. This is the 15th SVO PDX Stolen Cars have assisted on and have helped recover 35 stolen vehicles.


Statistics:

The Stolen Vehicle Operation utilizes data-driven evidence-based practices. This operation yielded a low ratio of one stolen vehicle located out of every four traffic stops/encounters.

Below are the initial results from the March 22nd multi-agency Stolen Vehicle Operation:
41 traffic stops/encounters
10 stolen vehicles recovered
18 arrests
11 drivers eluded (8 captured)
6 vehicle pursuits
8 vehicles towed
3 illegally possessed firearm seized

SVO Mission Ratios:
1:4 (stolen vehicles : stops/encounters)
1:4 (warrants serviced : stops/encounters)
1:4 (vehicles elude : stops/encounters)
1:7 (pursuits initiated : stops/encounters)
1:5 (vehicles towed : stops/encounters)
1:3 (custody : stops/encounters)
1:20 (illegally possessed firearms : stops/encounters)



PPB Stolen located by VPD – Driver eludes into Portland and taken into custody by SVO

Towards the end of the SVO mission period, Vancouver Police Department located a vehicle stolen in Portland and attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver eluded officers throughout Vancouver at a high rate of speed after having the tires intentionally deflated by police. The suspect drove into Portland and SVO officers were able locate the vehicle and attempted to stop the vehicle. Officers conducted a PIT maneuver to get the vehicle to stop. After the vehicle stopped the driver ran away from the stolen vehicle and officers were able to apprehend the driver after a brief foot pursuit.

The driver, Dylan J. Hardy, 24, was arrested for several outstanding warrants, Attempting to Elude Police in a Vehicle, Attempting to Elude Police on Foot, Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle, Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle, and Reckless Driving. He has other pending charges in Washington State. (PPB Case Number: 24-70839 & 24-64378 MCSO Case Number: 24-13069)




Impressive Decreasing Trend in Stolen Vehicles

Over the last 10 months, stolen vehicle operations have consistently delivered results in reducing vehicle theft rates. In January 2023, there were 984 vehicles reported stolen. In January 2024, it was 473 for a 56% decrease.
April: 24.4% decrease compared to the previous year (892 to 674)
May: 23.7% decrease compared to the previous year (849 to 648)
June: 26.7% decrease compared to the previous year (829 to 607)
July: 29.7% decrease compared to the previous year (862 to 606)
August: 35.3% decrease compared to the previous year (939 to 608)
September: 25.5% decrease compared to the previous year (861 to 644)
October: 36.6% decrease compared to the previous year (931 to 590)
November: 44% decrease compared to the previous year (966 to 538)
December: 42% decrease compared to the previous year (895 to 523)
January: 56% decrease compared to the previous year (984 to 437)

There are a lot of factors that go into crime trends, but enforcement efforts driven by data analysis, efficient use of limited resources, and interagency partnerships have been key factors in the reduction in car thefts in Portland. Car thefts are extremely impactful for victims, especially those who rely on their vehicles for their livelihoods. Stolen vehicles are often used by suspects in other crimes including robberies and shootings. Interdicting those occupied stolen cars can prevent other crimes.

For more on East Precinct’s innovative use of data, to make fewer stops, resulting in better outcomes, visit: https://www.portlandoregon.gov/police/news/read.cfm?id=462764


Photo descriptions:
1- Roll call in a large room, law enforcement officers from multiple police agencies being briefed using a projector screen
2- A silver and black semiautomatic Ruger handgun with slide locked back on a plastic evidence bag
3- Police officers from multiple agencies investigating a stolen vehicle surrounded by police vehicles
4- A recovered stolen vehicle on a grassy median at night, several law enforcement vehicles surrounding it.
5- A stolen vehicle at night, surrounded by police vehicles with lights flashing, police officers standing by a door
6- A recovered stolen vehicle in a parking lot in the daylight, a parole officer and 2 PPB officers standing nearby
7- Two officers doing a search incident to arrest of a suspect in handcuffs in a convenience store parking lot
8- A deputy interviews a suspect in the back of a police car

###PPB###



Attached Media Files: Roll Call , Pistol , Multi agency teamwork , Car on grassy median , Nighttime arrest , Parking lot recovery , Convenience store arrest , Deputy interviews suspect

Vancouver Police investigate assault at shopping mall
Vancouver Police Dept. - 03/23/24 12:44 PM

Vancouver, Wash. – On March 22 at approximately 8:00 p.m., Vancouver Police responded to the Vancouver Mall (8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr) for the report that several teens got into a physical fight in the food court and when one of the parents stepped in to stop the fight, the other parent pointed a firearm at victim parent threatening him. The suspect parent left the food court with his kids. There were no injuries. The suspect was believed to still be inside the mall, possibly in the bowling alley. Officers set up a perimeter and made contact with mall security who reported the suspect had left the mall prior to police arrival. 

The investigation is continuing and nothing further is releasable at this time.  

 

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Vancouver Police stolen vehicle operation results in multiple arrests, recovery of firearms and fentanyl
Vancouver Police Dept. - 03/23/24 11:33 AM

Vancouver, Wash. – On Friday, March 22, 2024, the Vancouver Police Department conducted their SW Washington Stolen Vehicle Operation (SVO).  This operation ran concurrently with multiple law enforcement agencies in the Portland metro area who ran their own SVO missions. 

The results of last night’s SW Washington SVO included the recovery of 2 occupied stolen vehicles and multiple arrests. The operation started with an occupied stolen Jeep Cherokee.  The subject was arrested from the Jeep and found to be wanted on another stolen vehicle case out of the Clark County Sheriff’s Office. Concurrently, a Honda eluded the Portland SVO Officers northbound into Vancouver.  Vancouver Officers located the Honda and took the driver into custody.  The driver was found to be violating an active No Contact Domestic Violence Order with the passenger of the Honda.  The subject in the stolen Jeep and the driver of the Honda were booked into the Clark County Jail.

In another incident, a van eluded Portland SVO Officers into Vancouver.  Vancouver SVO Officers located the van as it drove recklessly at various points throughout the city. The occupants were contacted after they ran from the van.  The driver was wanted on a parole violation out of Oregon and was booked into the Clark County Jail for Eluding Police.

During the operation, Vancouver SVO Officers also located a subject wanted on firearms charges and driving a stolen Mercedes.  The Mercedes attempted to elude law enforcement southbound across the Glenn Jackson Bridge.  Portland SVO Officers conducted an intervention technique, disabling the Mercedes. The fugitive was taken into custody after a foot pursuit.  The fugitive will be extradited to Clark County on the Clark County felony warrants with new charges added in Multnomah County from his criminal actions in Oregon. 

Toward the conclusion of the operation, Vancouver SVO Officers located another vehicle that eluded the Portland SVO.  The vehicle was stopped, and the occupants detained.  Two firearms and fentanyl powder were located, this case is still be investigated.

The Vancouver Police Department will continue to conduct future SVO’s in an effort to reduce vehicle thefts and the crimes associated with stolen vehicles. 

 

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Early morning collision leaves one deceased, two injured
Salem Police Department - 03/23/24 10:15 AM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: March 23, 2024

 

Early morning collision leaves one deceased, two injured

Salem, Ore. — Salem Police officers responded to a two-vehicle collision early Saturday morning which left one person deceased and two others injured.

At approximately 1:30 a.m. today, emergency responders were called to the intersection of Kuebler BV and Liberty RD S on the report of a two-vehicle collision.

The preliminary investigation by the Salem Police Traffic Team determined the driver of a compact, crossover SUV was travelling eastbound on Kuebler BV and failed to stop for the red-light signal. The compact SUV driven by Joshua Noel Guerra, age 33 of Salem, collided with a northbound SUV crossing the intersection on Liberty RD. The northbound vehicle was driven by 19-year-old Casen Matthew Collins of Salem.

Guerra was found deceased at the scene. Collins and an occupant in his vehicle were transported to Salem Health with non-life-threatening injuries.

Completion of the full investigation by the Traffic Team is pending, and no other information is available for release.

# # #


2024 Opening Today!
Oaks Park Association - 03/23/24 9:39 AM

Oaks Park's rides, mini golf, and carnival games open for the 2024 season today!  The amusement park operates 12-5 PM every day, now through March 31 for Oregon Spring Break.  After Spring Break, the park is open weekends until 6-day-a-week operations start in the summer.  This year's season runs through October 31, visit oakspark.com to see hours, get tickets, view discounts and deals, and to learn about all the fun things there are to do at Oregon's historic amusement park.

The Roller Rink is also open daily during spring break.  Hours vary, so visit oakspark.com to plan your skating time.