Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) Director Kelly Fitzpatrick will host a live virtual town hall for Vietnam veterans on March 25 at noon via Zoom.

Vietnam veterans are the largest veteran demographic in Oregon by era of service, with more than one-third of the state’s 300,000 veterans having served in the Vietnam War era. 

The live event on March 25 will cover earned benefits and other resources available to Vietnam veterans and their families, including disability compensation, Agent Orange exposure and presumptive diseases, health care and behavioral health services — as well as more recent changes to benefits such as the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019.

Trained and federally accredited Veteran Service Officers and other benefits experts will be on hand to provide direct assistance to participants, including filing a claim for benefits or an appeal if they have been denied previously.

Fitzpatrick will also be joined by a special guest, Renaye Murphy, Executive Director of the Portland Regional Office of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA). As Executive Director, Ms. Murphy is responsible for administering over $130 million per month in compensation and pension benefits to approximately 97,289 Veterans, dependents and their survivors living in Alaska and Oregon.

In addition to providing information, the purpose of the event is for the directors of both agencies to hear directly from Vietnam veterans about their experience accessing benefits and challenges they have encountered.

“We at ODVA are grateful for the opportunity to connect with and hear directly from our Vietnam veterans, who are an inspiration to me and so many other veterans,” said Fitzpatrick. “Sadly, when Vietnam veterans returned home from the battlefields nearly 50 years ago, they did not receive the heroes’ welcome they deserved. But, instead of turning their backs, they committed to the promise that never again would a generation of veterans abandon another, and have emerged as the true leaders of our veteran community today. We hope many Vietnam veterans will join us for this important event, as we work to improve services and outreach for all veterans.”

The event is part of a continuing series of virtual town halls the agency is holding to connect with the statewide veteran community, which began with a Virtual Women Veterans Town Hall that Fitzpatrick hosted in November, and a forum for LGBTQ veterans in December. 

The Virtual Vietnam Veterans Town Hall will be held at noon (PST) Thursday, March 25, via Zoom. You may register online at oregon.gov.odva/Connect/Pages/Townhalls.aspx. Submit questions for Director Fitzpatrick or Director Murphy in advance by emailing vetsbenefits@odva.state.or.us">orvetsbenefits@odva.state.or.us before March 22.

Registration is recommended but not required. Callers and questions will be welcomed on a “first come, first served” basis. Live closed captioning will be available for the video portion of this event. If you register, a link to the virtual event will be sent to your email. 

To call in for the meeting without registering, dial 877-853-5247, and use meeting ID 811 7856 3418. The passcode is 295308.

Around 6:30 a.m. today 3/5/21, our officers were called to a suspicious circumstance at the Washington Square Transit Center (9500 block of Washington Square Road). A Tri-Met driver reported a man was moving piles of cardboard boxes from a wooded area near the back of a neighboring store to the bus shelter. Responding officers discovered the boxes – some opened, others unopened – contained Lego sets. Officers later learned the locks to a secure storage area for the Lego store at the mall had been cut.

Officers also discovered a dolly cart in the wooded area. On the ground next to the dolly were several additional cardboard boxes with matching designs. Store employees confirmed the dolly and the missing merchandise had been kept in the secure storage area. 

The man at the bus shelter was identified as Nathaniel Nixon, 40, of Portland. Officers discovered burglary tools in his backpack consistent with the damage to the secure storage area. He was arrested on charges of burglary I, criminal mischief II and possession of burglar tools. Officers also discovered Nixon had an outstanding arrest warrant from Multnomah County.

In all, 25 Lego sets worth roughly $7,500 were recovered and returned to the store.

Photos are attached.

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Salem, Ore. -- Free wood chips are available now at the Bush’s Pasture Park Mission Street Parking Lot.

The site is self-service. Plan to bring and use your own vehicles and trailers, containers and shovels.

Please be sure to secure, cover or tarp your loads to prevent chips from blowing away and scattering through the community.

Chips are not for commercial resale.

This site is not for disposal of wood debris, so please don’t drop off any materials.

March 5, 2021

Media contact: Aria Seligmann, 503-535-9134, i.l.seligmann@dhsoha.state.or.us">ari.l.seligmann@dhsoha.state.or.us

Measure 110 Oversight and Accountability Council meets March 9, 2021

What: Public meetings of the Drug Treatment and Recovery Act (Measure 110) Oversight and Accountability Council.

Agenda: The council will continue their discussion of Senate Bill 755 and make recommendations on the amendments to Measure 110.

When: Tuesday March 9, 1 – 4 p.m.

Where: Virtual. YouTube link with live captions (English) https://youtu.be/LVNvxfo3Mzw

Purpose: The Drug Treatment and Recovery Act (Measure 110) Oversight and Accountability Council oversees the establishment of Addiction Recovery Centers throughout Oregon. The OAC will hold regular meetings to accomplish the necessary steps to fund and set up the centers.

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

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

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

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

If you need help or have questions, please contact Brandy L. Hemsley at 971-239-2942 711 TTY or RANDY.L.HEMSLEY@dhsoha.state.or.us">brandy.l.hemsley@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

On Saturday, March 6, firefighters and paramedics will have the opportunity to reunite with a woman that they helped in saving her life. The crews who responded to the medical emergency will reunite with Ruth Cortes, and her family at Hilltop Station 16, 19340 Molalla Ave., Oregon City at 4:00 p.m. Crews were dispatched on Sept. 19, 2020 to a home of a woman who was suffering a severe hemorrhage. Upon arrival, crews learned the woman was 18 weeks pregnant.

If it weren’t for the quick response and life-saving actions of paramedics, Cortes and her baby may not have survived. As first responders know all too well, initial life-saving measures are provided and the continuance of care is transferred over to the doctor at a local emergency room, and that’s where the interaction ends. First responders rarely learn the outcome of their patients.

But, Cortes and her baby, who was recently discharged from the NICU, will have the chance to thank firefighters and paramedics from Engine 317 and Medic 316 for their actions they took to save her life.

This event is closed to the public, but opened to members of the media.

###

NOTICE OF WORK SESSION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MARCH 9TH, 2021 @ 6:30 p.m.

Oregon Virtual Academy Board Members are hereby notified that a Work Session of the Board will be held via teleconference 1-720-707-2699 Ext. 526309737# and via Zoom at

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5033141592

(Salem, OR) March 5, 2021 - The Santiam Rebuild Coalition announced March 3 that it has secured property for a new community building in Detroit. The Detroit Lake Foundation President, Chris Tardiff, signed the papers acquiring 345 Santiam Avenue, Detroit, Oregon. 

Somewhat miraculously, one large piece of land was left virtually untouched by the recent wildfires. The coalition shared its vision to restore Detroit with the property owner, Kim Fowler, who then donated a large portion of the two-acre parcel to the project. The property was formerly the site of Detroit High School. The school building was demolished a few years ago, yet the gymnasium is still standing. Rebuild plans include using the existing structure.  

The Santiam Rebuild Coalition was formed to support Detroit and bring relief to the canyon. Nick Harville, Business Retention & Expansion Manager for SEDCOR/Marion County (Strategic Economic Development Corporation), and Rich Duncan, owner of Rich Duncan Construction, created the coalition. They plan to construct a community building for the area to jump-start the region’s redevelopment.

The coalition brings together licensed, local construction industry members who will volunteer their time to fast-track the construction of a new community building in Detroit—doing more together towards this goal than they could individually. 

Volunteer Coalition Communication Coordinator Mary Louise VanNatta says, “We hope the community building will be a place for Detroit and surrounding area residents to meet and begin reconstructing what has been called Oregon’s playground.”

There is much work to be done to restore life to the canyon. Duncan said, “If Detroit doesn't come back, the canyon cannot come back.” Though more people live in the surrounding communities like Gates and Mill City, Detroit has been the economic driver for all residents in those areas. Along with the community building, the new Detroit plans include features like a thriving and beautiful downtown with new businesses, a historical monument, and a visitor’s center. 

The Santiam Rebuild Coalition was developed for multiple purposes. One is to provide Canyon residents contacts for a group of trustworthy, local construction trades. Another is to improve logistics as reconstruction begins. At an organization meeting in mid-October 2020, over 90 contractors pledged to provide labor and materials. 

The Detroit Lake Foundation, a 501(c)3, will accept donations of both funds and materials on behalf of the project at DetroitLakeFoundation.org. The coalition has created its own website, SantiamRebuildCoalition.org, to help the contributors communicate and coordinate schedules. Approved licensed contractors will have access to a discussion forum and be listed in a public directory.   

Tardiff said, “The Detroit Lake Foundation is blessed to be a part of such an inspiring project. We are diligently working to help make this project a reality and are in amazement with all the outpouring of donations and help from the community. We are excited to see this be a place that will benefit the Detroit community, families, and visitors alike.”

The project brings together many of the partners involved in the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition build, led by Duncan in 2010. Thousands of citizens gathered to revitalize the Oregon School for the Deaf’s Nightmare Factory and boy’s dormitory.  

Duncan said citizens are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support by the industry. “It is great to have a relationship with trusted colleagues we can call back together a decade later to work on this important rebuild,” said Duncan.  

Contractors can find the volunteer/supply donation form on www.SantiamRebuildCoalition.org.  To make cash or other contributions, visit www.DetroitLakeFoundation.org.

###

About the Santiam Rebuild Coalition: After fires devastated the Santiam Canyon, generous members of the building community pledged to help. The Santiam Rebuild Coalition is a group of licensed and insured construction industry members who have committed materials and labor to fast-track a community building for Detroit. www.SantiamRebuildCoalition.org

March 05, 2021

DA Mike Schmidt statement on potential criminal activity being planned for Saturday

PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt issued the following statement.

“Acts of violence against people and damage to property are unlawful and unacceptable. I have adamantly and repeatedly said that property damage and violent behavior will not be tolerated. Recent riotous activity and wanton destruction of private property that targets businesses struggling to reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic does not appear connected to the calls for social justice and system reform, which I strongly support. Instead, these destructive acts only serve to harm our community. My office will continue to prosecute acts of violence and property destruction.”

This office prioritizes the prosecution of crimes that endanger life safety and crimes involving property destruction, and reviews all felony and misdemeanor criminal cases that are referred by law enforcement. These misdemeanor crimes, among others, include Attempted Assaulting a Public Safety Officer, Interfering with a Peace or Public Safety Officer, Resisting Arrest and Disorderly Conduct.

#MCDA#

Media Contact:

Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

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

PORTLAND, Ore. - The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet on Friday, March 12 at 8:30 a.m. to 11:50 a.m. To adhere to the state’s social distancing requirements and to slow the spread of COVID-19, this public meeting will be conducted as a virtual meeting.

The meeting agenda is available at https://www.oregongeology.org

The DOGAMI Governing Board sets policy and oversees general operations, and adopts a strategic plan every six years. The Board meets at least quarterly. As active members of their communities, Board members provide an important connection between Oregonians and DOGAMI's mission of providing earth science information and regulation to make Oregon safe and prosperous.

###

On Friday, March 5, 2021, the family of Jeremy Covey released the following statement to the media:

Two weeks ago our world was turned upside down by the sudden and untimely death of our beloved Jeremy. He had just been offered a new beginning and his chance at that was taken away. While our grief is immeasurable, so is our hope for justice.

We want to express our unending appreciation to the Washington County Sheriff's Office, Washington County Major Crimes Team, Beaverton Police and all agencies involved in apprehending Jeremy’s murderer. Your kindness, tireless hours, diligence, and swiftness will not be forgotten. When you looked Jeremy’s mother in the eyes and said you promised, we knew you meant it. Thank you.

We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, condolences and support from family, friends and those who truly loved Jeremy. We thank you all for your prayers and hope you will understand our need for privacy as we learn to heal and move forward seeking justice for Jeremy.

The family will not be doing any media interviews at this time.

(Previous media releases below)

On March 4, 2021, at 8:02 p.m., Beaverton Police Officers saw a vehicle associated with 35-year-old Herbert Rabago near SW 149th Avenue and SW Farmington Road. Beaverton Police Officers knew Mr. Rabago had an active arrest warrant for the murder of Jeremy Lee Covey.

Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, and a pursuit ensued throughout Beaverton and came to an end near the Beaverton Central Max Station, where Mr. Rabago ran on foot. Officers apprehended Mr. Rabago shortly after. No one was injured during the incident.  

Mr. Rabago was lodged in the Washington County Jail on his outstanding warrant.

The Washington County Sheriff's Office would like to thank Beaverton Police Department for locating Mr. Rabago.

On February 18, 2021, at 1:52 p.m. Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a shooting call in the 17800 block of SW Kinnaman Road where one person had been shot. When deputies arrived, they learned the victim had been transported to the Providence Urgent Care in Tanasbourne.

When deputies arrived at the Urgent Care, they discovered the victim was deceased.

The victim has been identified as 32-year-old Jeremy Lee Covey of Portland.

Detectives from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit responded to the scene to investigate the homicide.

The investigation is ongoing; more information will be released as it becomes available.

If you have information related to the homicide, contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at (503) 846-2700.

March 5, 2021

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

Daphne Peck, 503-373-1985, c.info@dhsoha.state.or.us">herc.info@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

Oregon Health Evidence Review Commission and HERC’s Value-based Benefits Subcommittee meet March 11 online

Oregon Health Evidence Review Commission

What: A public meeting of the Health Evidence Review Commission

When: Thursday, March 11, 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Where: Online meeting, https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1610975725?pwd=WjhHb0RGbk4vQlJ6andCVGVpd0tadz09

By landline/touchtone phone: +1 669 254 5252 US

Meeting ID: 161 097 5725 | Passcode: 187905

Note: Unscheduled testimony will not be allowed at the meeting. If you think you may want to testify, please complete the survey to sign up at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/herc-public-comment by Tuesday, 3/9/21, noon. If you decide not to testify, you can always decline later. If you need assistance in signing up for public testimony, please call Daphne Peck at 503-373-1985.

Written public comment will be accepted until noon on 3/9/21; submit to C.Info@dhsoha.state.or.us">HERC.Info@dhsoha.state.or.us.

Agenda: HERC will consider the following topics:

• VbBS Report
• Government Ethics
• Potential bylaws/process revisions

Topics which remain unresolved at the conclusion of the morning's VbBS meeting will not be heard by HERC until a later date. Public notice of tabled topics will be announced 28-days prior their next scheduled discussion.

For more information about the meeting, visit the committee’s website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/DSI-HERC/Pages/Meetings-Public.aspx. The meeting agenda and materials will be available one week before the meeting. 

HERC’s Value-based Benefits Subcommittee

What: A public meeting of the Health Evidence Review Commission’s Value-based Benefits Subcommittee

When: Thursday, March 11, 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Where: Online meeting, https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1610975725?pwd=WjhHb0RGbk4vQlJ6andCVGVpd0tadz09

By landline/touchtone phone: +1 669 254 5252 US

Meeting ID: 161 097 5725 | Passcode: 187905

Note: Unscheduled testimony will not be allowed at the meeting. If you think you may want to testify, please complete the survey to sign up at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/herc-public-comment by Tuesday, 3/9/21, noon. If you decide not to testify, you can always decline later. If you need assistance in signing up for public testimony, please call Daphne Peck at 503-373-1985.

Written public comment will be accepted until noon on 3/9/21; submit to C.Info@dhsoha.state.or.us">HERC.Info@dhsoha.state.or.us.

Agenda: Items scheduled for discussion could include, but may not be limited to, the following topics:

• Various straightforward coding and guideline changes
• 2022 Biennial Review
  • Inguinal and femoral hernias
• COVID-related coding changes
• Telehealth revisions
• Coding specification review 2021
  • Coding specification merging into existing guideline notes
  • Coding specifications requiring new guideline notes
  • Coding specifications for deletion only
  • Chemodenervation coding specifications
• Osteochondritis dissecans of the knee
• Pre-surgical weight loss in the bariatric surgery guideline
• Biomarkers for prostate cancer
• Non-spinal chiropractic manipulation
• Revisions to the acupuncture guideline
• Changes to the prenatal genetic testing guidelines to remove ethnicity/family history based testing

For more information about the meeting, visit the committee’s website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/DSI-HERC/Pages/Meetings-Public.aspx. The meeting agenda and materials will be available one week before the meeting. 

# # #

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

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

If you need help or have questions, please contact Daphne Peck at 503-373-1985, 711 TTY or c.info@dhsoha.state.or.us">herc.info@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the event. Written comments are also welcome at c.info@dhsoha.state.or.us">herc.info@dhsoha.state.or.us.

Update – March 05, 2021

(Portland, Oregon) – Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt released a video that highlights the perspectives of a felony gun crimes prosecutor and a victim advocate assigned to the District Attorney’s Major Crimes Team.

The video can be viewed by clicking here.

Additionally, DA Schmidt is releasing additional data on the total number of gun violence-related criminal prosecutions initiated in February 2020, 2019 and 2018.  

March 04, 2021

DA Mike Schmidt releases gun violence prosecution data for February 2021

 PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt announced that during the month of February his office initiated 36 separate gun violence-related criminal prosecutions.   

Two of the 36 cases issued in February 2021 are homicide-related investigations. Specific information on those cases cannot be released under ORS 192.345 (3). 

Five of the 36 cases issued in February 2021 are domestic violence-related and involve a firearm being used.

“The gun violence happening in Multnomah County is not isolated to just one neighborhood. It impacts all of us. As district attorney, public safety will always be my foremost priority. We all have an interest in stopping gun violence. My office continues to partner with public health officials, non-profit organizations, faith leaders, and law enforcement to respond, with urgency, to the surge,” said District Attorney Mike Schmidt.

Although some of the incident dates preceded the month of February, all 36 cases were initiated between February 1 and February 28, 2021.

Community members with information about a recent – or past gun crime in Multnomah County – should submit a tip to Crime Stoppers of Oregon.

#MCDA#

VANCOUVER, WA (March 5th, 2021) – Spring is almost upon us, and with the support of generous local gardeners Columbia Springs is able to provide hydrangea cuttings to community members – free of charge.

Columbia Springs is always excited to give back to those in the area. “When community supporters Lori & Michael Gordon offered to donate hundreds of their hydrangea cuttings to those who would value them, we knew it was something we wanted to be a part of,” said Kylie Sahota, Columbia Springs Communications Coordinator.

Planning was tricky due to the ever-fluctuating circumstances, but with the recent drop in positive COVID-19 cases, Columbia Springs staff felt confident that they could safely facilitate a hydrangea pick-up in their outdoor parking lot. Pandemic protocols have not been forgotten. Participants are required to wear a mask and maintain a six-foot distance at all times.

The Columbia Springs hydrangea giveaway will be staffed from 10:00am – 2:00pm on March 12th and 13th at 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683. All are welcome!

Columbia Springs is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit on the Old Evergreen Highway in Vancouver, WA. Its mission is to offer a unique setting and educational experiences that foster greater awareness of the natural world and inspire stewardship.

March 4, 2021

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

Updated: Oregon reports 392 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 32 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 32 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 2,284, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 392 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 156,673.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 24,014 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 16,376 doses were administered on March 3 and 7,638 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on March 3.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

Oregon has now administered a cumulative total of 1,043,609 first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. To date, 1,341,775 doses of vaccine have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change. OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 140, which is the same total from yesterday. There are 29 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is two fewer than yesterday.

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

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (3), Benton (8), Clackamas (24), Clatsop (1), Columbia (3), Coos (21), Crook (4), Curry (2), Deschutes (26), Douglas (23), Grant (2), Hood River (1), Jackson (37), Jefferson (10), Josephine (23), Klamath (7), Lake (4), Lane (18), Lincoln (1), Linn (8), Malheur (1), Marion (38), Morrow (1), Multnomah (52), Polk (6), Tillamook (1), Umatilla (18), Union (8), Wallowa (1), Washington (34) and Yamhill (6).

Oregon’s 2,253rd COVID-19 death is a 90-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive on Jan. 28 and died on Feb. 9 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,254th COVID-19 death is a 78-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive on Jan. 6 and died on Jan. 8 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,255th COVID-19 death is a 90-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive on Jan. 18 and died on Feb. 6 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,256th COVID-19 death is an 87-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on Feb. 2 and died on Feb. 6 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,257th COVID-19 death is a 75-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive on Feb. 1 and died on Feb. 8 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,258th COVID-19 death is a 97-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive on Jan. 25 and died on Feb. 3 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,259th COVID-19 death is a 62-year-old man in Coos County who tested positive on Jan. 18 and died on March 3 at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,260th COVID-19 death is an 86-year-old man in Deschutes County who tested positive on Dec. 30 and died on Jan. 16 at St. Charles Bend Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,261st COVID-19 death is a 93-year-old woman in Deschutes County who tested positive on Dec. 28 and died on Jan. 31 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,262nd COVID-19 death is a 92-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive on Jan. 21 and died on Feb. 4 at her residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,263rd COVID-19 death is a 62-year-old man in Jackson County who tested positive on Dec. 4 and died on Jan. 26 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,264th COVID-19 death is a 90-year-old man in Jackson County who tested positive on Jan. 20 and died on Feb. 6 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,265th COVID-19 death is an 83-year-old man in Jefferson County who tested positive on Jan. 14 and died on Feb. 3 at St. Charles Bend Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,266th COVID-19 death is a 61-year-old man in Jefferson County who tested positive on Jan. 10 and died on Jan. 29 at St. Charles Bend Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2267th COVID-19 death is an 84-year-old man in Josephine County who tested positive on Feb. 21 and died on March 3 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. He had no underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,268th COVID-19 death is a 78-year-old man in Josephine County who tested positive on Jan. 6 and died on Jan. 31 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,269th COVID-19 death is a 39-year-old man in Marion County who tested positive on Dec. 15 and died on Jan. 23 at Oregon Health & Science University Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,270th COVID-19 death is a 101-year-old woman in Marion County who tested positive on March 1 and died on March 2 at Salem Hospital. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,271st COVID-19 death is an 82-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Nov. 17 and died on Dec. 19 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,272nd COVID-19 death is an 82-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Jan. 5 and died on Feb. 14 at Adventist Health Portland. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,273rd COVID-19 death is a 48-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Jan. 2 and died on Feb. 8 at Legacy Mt. Hood Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,274th COVID-19 death is a 76-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Dec. 30 and died on Jan. 23 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,275th COVID-19 death is a 67-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Jan. 2 and died on Jan. 24 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,276th COVID-19 death is a 98-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Jan. 22 and died on Jan. 28 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,277th COVID-19 death is an 87-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Dec. 3 and died on Dec. 31. Location of death and presence of underlying conditions are being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,278th COVID-19 death is a 51-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Dec. 7 and died on Jan. 30 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,279th COVID-19 death is a 73-year-old woman in Polk County who tested positive on Jan. 20 and died on Jan. 24 at Salem Hospital. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,280th COVID-19 death is a 45-year-old woman in Washington County who tested positive on Dec. 27 and died on Jan. 18 at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,281st COVID-19 death is a 60-year-old man in Washington County who tested positive on Jan. 6 and died on Jan. 21 at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,282nd COVID-19 death is a 78-year-old man in Washington County who tested positive on Jan. 11 and died on Jan. 23 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,283rd COVID-19 death is a 95-year-old man in Washington County who tested positive on Jan. 2 and died on March 3 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,284th COVID-19 death is an 88-year-old woman in Yamhill County who tested positive on Dec. 29 and died on Jan. 29 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations

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

Two useful resources:

How adults 65 and older in the Portland metro area can find appointments at the Oregon Convention Center

Who can find a vaccine on the Vaccine Information Tool (chatbot)?

March 5, 2021

Contact: Philip Schmidt, 503-383-6079, Philip.Schmidt@dhsoha.state.or.us

OHA Data Show Hospital Finances Rebounding in Q3 of 2020

The Oregon Health Authority released hospital financial data today showing that in the third quarter of 2020, hospitals’ finances rebounded after the declines due to the COVID pandemic earlier in the year. The earlier financial declines were offset by large infusions of federal funding, leading hospitals to operate in the black for the year, with a year-to-date statewide operating margin of 2.9%.

“Oregon depends on a stable health care system. During the pandemic, we’ve been focused on protecting people from the virus. But we also have been worried about the financial effects of  the pandemic on our health care system,” said Jeremy Vandehey, director of health policy and analytics at the Oregon Health Authority. “We remain concerned about the toll that the pandemic has taken on health care providers and workers over the last year, but today’s data show that most of Oregon’s hospitals are returning to normal financial levels. We will continue to monitor this situation but some of our concerns about financial stability of the health system have been alleviated.”

Data show that net patient revenue recovered quickly after elective procedures resumed in May 2020. Additionally, statewide “other operating revenue,” which includes residual CARES Act funds, remained higher than normal in the third quarter, indicating that some federal funding was still flowing in.

The report shows that utilization helped drive the Q3 revenue rebound, but federal aid was likely still a factor but to a far less substantial degree than in Q2. In Q3 2020, other operating revenue made up only 7.2% of total operating revenue, suggesting that hospitals relied less on grants, which appear as other operating revenue, and more on net patient revenue than in Q2 2020.

Net patient revenue is the money a hospital receives from providing health care services to patients, while other operating revenue is the money a hospital receives from services not related to patient care such as gift shop sales, grants, or cafeteria sales.

And while net patient revenue rose substantially from Q2’s very low levels, operating expenses remained flat. Year-to-date total operating expense was $10.4 billion, which was 1.8% higher than the same period in 2019.

The full data set is available on the OHA hospital financial and utilization dashboard

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Commission on Aging is focusing this year on the road to recovery from COVID-19, especially for people 65 and older. The coronavirus pandemic has had a significant impact on older adults in Clark County, as around the world. According to the CDC, older adults are at greater risk of requiring hospitalization or dying if they are diagnosed with COVID-19. The pandemic raised concerns regarding the health and well-being of older adults, especially the community’s most vulnerable. What have we learned so that we are better prepared in the future?

The year-long focus will educate and raise awareness about how we can learn from the COVID-19 health crisis and recover in a way that makes Clark County more resilient for residents of all ages.

Meetings are at 4:30 pm on the third Wednesday of each month. Meetings are currently in an online format.

The commission has invited experts to join a moderated discussion on specific topics. Members discuss the topic with their guests and answer questions from the audience. Here is a tentative schedule of the 2021 topics:

• March 17 – Overview of the road to recovery from COVID-19 for older adults
• April 21 – First and early responders
• May 19 – Serious illness and caregiver support
• July 21 – Food as medicine
• Aug. 18 – Social determinants of health
• Sept. 15 – Opportunities for social connections
• Oct. 20 – Personal economics and financial recovery

Dr. Melissa Cannon, Associate Professor of Gerontology at Western Oregon University, and Neil Degerstedt, Regional Ombudsman with the Washington Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, will kick off the discussion series on March 17. Cannon and Degerstedt will talk about the various stops along the road to recovery from a pandemic that greatly impacts older adults.

For information on how to join and participate in a commission online meeting, please visit https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/commission-aging-meetings.

The Commission on Aging, supported by the Clark County Council, is a nine-member volunteer group that implements the Aging Readiness Plan and provides leadership addressing needs of aging community members. For more about the commission, please visit www.clark.wa.gov/aging.

Commission meetings are carried on CVTV Channel 23 and online at www.cvtv.org. To see replay times, go to www.cvtv.org.

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. Monitoring results for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism, were received from the Bull Run Watershed intake. In the 50 liters sampled each day from Feb 28 and March 3, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the sample collected on March 2. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on Feb. 28, March 1 or March 3. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on Feb. 17, 2021.

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

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

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

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

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 53 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,200 miles of pipes. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day.

March 5, 2021 - Salem, Ore. – The last day to buy tickets for the Lottery’s 19th Raffle game is fast-approaching.

“The best advice to give anyone who wants a chance at winning Raffle’s $1 million top prize would be to buy your ticket by Monday, Mar. 15,” said Lottery Products Portfolio Manager Tina Erickson. “In order to conduct the drawing to select all 1,801 cash-prize winning tickets, Raffle ticket sales end in the wee hours of the morning March 16.

“Historically, Raffle ticket daily-sales balloon as the drawing date draws closer. We started with 250,000 Raffle tickets and as of March 5, less than 71,000 tickets remain.”

The Raffle offers the best odds of any Oregon Lottery game of winning $1 million – 1 in 250,000. Overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 138.8.

Prizes for the Raffle include:

-           One $1 million top prize

-           300 prizes of $500

-           1,500 prizes of $100

The Lottery will release the winning numbers at 5 a.m., Wednesday, Mar. 17 – St. Patrick’s Day. To check the winning Raffle numbers, players can use the Lottery’s smart phone app, go to www.oregonlottery.org or visit a participating Oregon Lottery retail location.

The $500 and $100 prize winners can claim their prizes at any Oregon Lottery retail location.

The $1 million Raffle prize winner will need to make an appointment to come to the Oregon Lottery office in Salem. They can call 503-540-1000 for assistance.

As always, players should be certain to sign the back of their tickets.

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On Friday, March 5, 2021, at approximately 2:30 A.M., Troopers from the Springfield Area Command responded to a Semi vs. Semi crash on I-5 northbound at milepost 216.

Preliminary investigation revealed a tan 2015 Volvo Semi truck and trailer was northbound in the slow lane, when for  an unknown reasons, it was rear ended a Blue 2016 Freight Truck and Trailer at a high rate of speed. The three occupants of the tan Volvo were entrapped for approximately one hour before Fire & EMS could extricate them. Once freed, the 3 occupants were transported to the Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis.  

Recruit Trooper Padgett rescued a small dog from the cab of the tan Volvo. The dog was transported to the Linn County Animal Shelter without injury.

OSP was assisted by Oregon Department of Transportation, Linn County Sheriff's Office, Halsey Fire & EMS, and Albany EMS.  One lane continues to be closed awaiting reconstruction of the scene.  The investigation is still ongoing.

Vancouver, Wash. – Public Health is opening appointments for COVID-19 vaccination at the Tower Mall site to anyone who is eligible in Phase 1a or Phase 1b Tier 1.

Over the last several days, Public Health has sent emails and called people who are on the county’s referral list to offer appointments at the Tower Mall vaccination site. However, many offers have gone unanswered and appointments remain unfilled.

In order to ensure that every available dose of COVID-19 vaccine is administered, Public Health is making the link available to anyone who is eligible. Visit the Safeway/Alberstons website to schedule an appointment: https://kordinator.mhealthcoach.net/vcl/VancouverTowerMall. Appointments will likely fill up quickly.   

You will receive a confirmation email from Safeway after scheduling your appointment. Your second-dose appointment will automatically be scheduled for three weeks later at the same time, day of the week and location. Please ensure the time and day of week you select will work for your first- and second-dose appointments. Vaccines are free.

The vaccination site will operate 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Friday, Saturday, Monday and Tuesday and offer drive-thru and walk-up options in the Tower Mall parking lot, 5403 E. Mill Plain Blvd, with vehicle entry off Blandford Drive. Appointments are required. People who visit the site without an appointment will not be vaccinated.

Those with appointments should arrive no more than 10 minutes before their appointment time. Arriving too early can cause traffic backups and longer waiting times.

Drivers should enter the site off North Blandford Drive between MacArthur Boulevard and Mill Plain Boulevard and exit onto North Devine Road. Walk-up patients will enter the site off East Mill Plain Boulevard between Blandford Road and Divine Road. Follow the directional signs for COVID-19 vaccine.

The Tower Mall vaccination site is a collaboration between Clark County Public Health, the city of Vancouver and Safeway. COVID-19 vaccine is provided by Safeway through the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program. Safeway pharmacists will administer Pfizer vaccine, with support from Clark County Public Health. No vaccines will be stored on site outside of normal operating hours. The city of Vancouver is providing non-medical staff to assist with site operations.

Anyone who received an email invitation from Public Health and was unable to schedule an appointment can reply to the email indicating they still need a referral and Public Health will contact them when additional appointments are available.

Below is a comment from Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty addressing today's false allegations. 

Today began with an unnecessary burden put on my office to disprove a completely false accusation. Now the Portland Police Bureau has admitted what we knew all along – I was not involved in any way with any hit and run incident and am not a suspect.

While I am relieved to see the truth prevail, this incident brings up a number of urgent questions that I want answers to.

How did this false information get leaked to the Oregonian and fringe right wing media groups?

Why did the Oregonian run this story with no proof to substantiate the false allegation?

Will the 911 call and police report be released to myself and the media?

What was the relationship between the 911 call and the police report?

I’m demanding an investigation so we can get to the bottom of where this smear campaign originated.

I’ve always said that we can disagree without being disagreeable. This kind of personal attack, based on false accusations that were perpetuated by elements of the media, is hurtful. When I have made mistakes in the past, I have owned it, taken responsibility, and apologized. I hope those that brought this harm to me and my office today will feel compelled to do the same.

EUGENE, Ore.—A Lincoln City, Oregon man with multiple felony convictions was sentenced to federal prison today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine in and around Lincoln City and illegally possessing a firearm, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug.

Felix Daniel Garcia-Mendoza, 28, was sentenced to 204 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to doing everything we can to reduce drug trafficking and violent crime across Oregon. A key pillar of our strategy is to reduce illegal gun ownership and use by drug traffickers,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Asphaug. “I applaud our law enforcement partners for their persistence in bringing Mr. Garcia-Mendoza to justice and making our coastal communities safer in the process.”

“The brazenness of Garcia-Mendoza’s actions clearly warrant this significant sentence,” said ATF Seattle Field Division Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jonathan E. Blais. “He showed a complete disregard for the law and jeopardized the community as a whole. The removal of Garcia-Mendoza and his co-conspirators from the streets will help make Lincoln City and Lincoln County safer.”

According to court documents, beginning in March 2018, agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) began infiltrating the Lincoln City methamphetamine market. Soon after, one of Garcia-Mendoza’s co-conspirators brokered the sale of a quarter pound of methamphetamine from Garcia-Mendoza to an undercover agent. At their initial meeting, agents purchased 113 grams of methamphetamine from Garcia-Mendoza.

Garcia-Mendoza met repeatedly with undercover agents and sold them increasingly larger quantities of methamphetamine. On one occasion, in June 2018, Garcia-Mendoza sold the agents more than one and half pounds of methamphetamine. Garcia-Mendoza also sold the undercover agents a handgun later determined to have be stolen from a Lincoln City gun shop. He wore a Glock pistol prominently in his waistband during various transactions and displayed it by raising his shirt and pulling it out during deals.

On December 12, 2018, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an 11-count indictment charging Garcia-Mendoza with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He was arrested on January 5, 2019 and pleaded guilty to all but three of the charges on January 20, 2020.

Three other co-defendants—Billy Jack Reese, Jr., 42, of Lincoln City, Oregon; James Levi Boyer, 51, of Springfield, Oregon; and Patricia Rose Hedrick, 25, of Newport, Oregon—were charged and have pleaded guilty to conspiring with Garcia-Mendoza to distribute methamphetamine. All were sentenced to time served in federal prison and are serving five-year terms of supervised release.

This case was investigated by ATF, the Lincoln City Police Department, and the Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Nathan J. Lichvarcik and William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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

# # #

The Battle Ground Public Schools Board of Directors has selected former education professional Mary Snitily to fill the District 1 director position left vacant when long-time board member Monty Anderson resigned last month. Snitily was one of four candidates the board interviewed and considered at a special meeting Wednesday night. Snitily will be sworn in at the Battle Ground school board meeting on Monday, March 8.

Snitily brings 21 years of experience in public and private education to the role. She has served as a teacher, a math specialist, a principal, a district curriculum director, and as an assistant superintendent. Snitily has experience writing and administering federal education grants, assessing and adopting new school curriculum, planning and managing annual budgets, and participating in contract negotiations. 

Snitily earned a bachelor of arts degree in sociology and psychology, a master’s degree in teaching, and a principal’s certification, all from Washington State University.

"I am passionate about education and am honored to be selected as the director for District one,” Snitily said. “I look forward to applying my professional experience and unique perspective to serve the Battle Ground Public Schools community." 

Snitily's appointment to the board will be through November 2021. The position will be up for election for a four-year term at that time. Her appointment brings the board to full capacity. Her predecessor, Monty Anderson, had served for twelve years on the board before he tendered his resignation in February.

Battle Ground Public Schools is one of the largest geographic districts in the state, serving a population of approximately 72,000 residents. The district supports approximately 12,000 students in 18 schools, including seven primary schools, six middle schools, one 3-12 academy, two comprehensive high schools, one alternative high school, and one home school support program.

Clark County job seekers of all ages will have the opportunity to sharpen their application skills and meet a vast array of area businesses at the upcoming, free Southwest Washington Industry Fair.

Patterned after the successful and long-standing Battle Ground Public Schools Industry Fair and last year’s first-ever East County Industry Hiring Fair, the new event is a combination of the two and will be offered virtually on Thursday, March 18, 2021 from 5 to 7 p.m. Mini virtual workshops featuring valuable information such as resume writing, interviewing skills, and tips on creating your LinkedIn profile will be offered Monday, March 15 through Thursday, March 18 from 3 to 5 p.m. Experts from WorkforceSW, Partners in Careers, Express Employment and several others will lead these learning sessions.

The event is jointly coordinated by the Career and Technical Education Departments of Battle Ground Public Schools, Camas School District, Hockinson School District, La Center School District, Stevenson-Carson School District and Washougal School District.

“The primary goal is to provide authentic career learning opportunities for students, families and community members,” said Cindy Arnold, CTE Director for BGPS. “But the fair will look differently due to the pandemic and COVID safety protocols in place.” 

“Rather than business representatives standing behind a table greeting people in person, we will use a live streaming platform,” said Sean Tamura, Career Specialist for CSD. Participants will log in to learn about a specific business, ask questions and discover work opportunities that may exist. Organizers invited businesses from around Southwest Washington that represent a variety of industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality, finance and even apprenticeships to take part in the fair. There are more than 30 businesses so far eager to share information with the community.

Although completely free, event attendees will be required to sign up for advanced tickets to participate in the sessions and Industry Fair with local businesses. Tickets and a list of sessions and participating businesses can be found at https://www.battlegroundps.org/industry-fair/

“We are excited to provide high school students and community members from throughout the county this first-hand knowledge of what job opportunities are out there in our community,” said Kevin Doyle, CTE Director for LaCenter SD and BGHS Career Guidance Counselor. “This also gives our businesses the access they need to hire and fill open positions with quality candidates.”

“The fair is for all ages,” Lisa Leonard, Career Specialist for WSD explained. “There are plenty of adults in our communities who are looking for employment or are ready to make a career shift. Having access to local businesses in this way makes it easier and more likely for that to happen.”

“Even during the pandemic, we are looking forward to offering a real-world experience for our students which supports the important high school and beyond work happening in each of our districts and across the State,” said Margaret Rice, CTE Director for WSD. "It is amazing what can happen when we come together as an educational team. There is a lot of strength in the collaborative efforts of this group and we are all thrilled to be able to host such an important event for our communities."

“We encourage anyone in our communities looking for employment or interested in making a career change to attend,” said Wendi Russell, CTE Director for SCSD. “We hope this fair can be offered in person next year and continues to strengthen the relationship and partnerships between schools and local industry.”

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PORTLAND, Ore. —  VA Portland Health Care System will begin COVID-19 vaccinations with the Janssen vaccine next week. This follows the recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Emergency Use Authorization for this vaccine.

In clinical trials, the Janssen vaccine showed an efficacy of 66% against moderate to severe/critical COVID-19 disease occurring at least 28 days after vaccination — and demonstrated greater than 85% efficacy in preventing severe/critical COVID-19 disease occurring at least 28 days after vaccination.

“VA Portland is eager to be able to offer a third highly effective vaccine to more Veterans,” said Darwin Goodspeed, Director, VA Portland Health Care System  “This one-dose vaccine will help us reach our ultimate goal of offering COVID-19 vaccination to all Veterans and employees who want to be vaccinated.”

As of March 4, VA Portland has provided more than 36,0000 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to Veterans, employees and select federal partners.

Only enrolled Veterans who receive care with VA Portland and who are in the eligible age groups for the vaccine are being contacted to schedule their vaccinations.  If not enrolled for VA care, Veterans are encouraged to check eligibility and enroll by calling the VA Health Eligibility Center at 1-877-222-VETS (8387). More eligibility information is here.

Go to www.portland.va.gov for updated information on local vaccination details as well as the national “COVID-19 vaccines at VA” website. Anyone can sign up on that main VA Portland web page to receive email updates where it says “CONNECT WITH VA PORTLAND HEALTH CARE SYSTEM.”  Information is also shared on the VA Portland Facebook page.

Veterans are asked to please not call the health care system for COVID vaccination scheduling or for updates. They are encouraged to communicate their questions or concerns about their care through their care teams, preferably through secure messaging via MyHealtheVet.

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Vancouver, Washington – The swimming pool at Marshall Community Center (1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd.) will get a new fiberglass coating to remedy a maintenance issue that closed the pool to the public on Jan. 30.

Vancouver City Council unanimously approved the project at their meeting March 1. While the timeline is still tentative, Vancouver Parks and Recreation hopes to start the project in April and reopen the pool in late spring.

Vancouver Parks and Recreation made the decision to close Marshall pool in consultation with Clark County Public Health because the pool’s painted surface coating was beginning to become unstable, which had the potential to impact water clarity. Out of an abundance of caution, Marshall pool will remain closed until a new surface can be applied to ensure the continued safety of staff and visitors. The newly approved project includes paint removal, shell resurfacing and installation of a durable sprayed fiberglass coating.

In addition to addressing the current surface issue, a fiberglass coating will reduce annual maintenance costs and closures at Marshall pool in the future. The same fiberglass coating was successfully installed at the Firstenburg Community Center swimming pool (700 N.E. 136th Ave.) in 2018.

“Marshall pool is an important health amenity and therapeutic resource for a lot of people in our community,” said Marshall Center Director Andy Meade. “Although there is never an optimal time for a pool closure, completing this improvement while pool capacity is extremely limited due to COVID-19 guidelines means fewer people are directly impacted by the extended closure. I look forward to welcoming people back to a much-improved Marshall pool in the coming months.” 

Marshall pool resurfacing was originally included in the city’s 2023-2024 budget however, due to the current surface issues, the project was moved to 2021. The contract was awarded to Advanced Pool Coatings of Loomis, California. Updates about the project will be shared as information becomes available.  

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For Immediate Release

For over 3 years the Central Lions Club has held an “all the Crab you can eat” event
in Independence, Oregon. 

This year's crab feed will be different due to covid-19, and we will sell crab
dinner available for take-out only on April 24, 2021. It will consist of two crab halves, coleslaw,
and garlic bread. Meals will be available for pick-up at The Gate across from Central High School.
 

The $25 per person tickets are available for sale by texting SERVE to 44944.

You can select your pickup time and order as many meals as you like. Act fast, only 300 servings available!

Lion Steve Moser, Crab Feed Chairman, shared that because of covid the Central Lions were unable to fully fundraise last year. Funds received through the Crab Feed will support community youth activities, eyeglasses for people in need, and help victims of the fires.

With the motto “WE SERVE,” Central Lions Club has been helping their community since 1938 in Monmouth and Independence.

Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization, with a
network of 1.3 million men and women in more than 200 countries and
geographical locations. We serve where we live, as well as globally, and we have fun
doing it.

#    #    #

Vancouver, Wash. – In accordance with Washington State Law I-940 and SHB 1064, which is now known as the Law Enforcement Training and Community Safety Act (LETCSA), the SW Washington Independent Investigative Response Team (SWIIR), led by the Vancouver Police Department, will provide weekly updates regarding the officer involved shooting investigation.

The investigation is continuing and there is no new information to be released at this time.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available and will be sent out via media release.

                                                                                              ###

March 4, 2021

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, phd.communications@dhsoha.state.or.us

For 2019, Oregon sees increased suicide rates across all ages, but youth deaths decline

Adult Suicide Intervention and Prevention Plan, COVID-19 adjustments in youth programming among strategies state is using to address problem

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon had the nation’s ninth highest suicide rate across all ages in 2019—a significant difference from the year before when the state was 17th in suicide deaths, according to suicide mortality data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The state had 20.4 deaths by suicide per 100,000 people in 2019 — the same rate as Idaho — with a total of 906 deaths. In 2018, the suicide death rate was 19 per 100,000, which amounted to 844 total deaths. Oregon was ranked 15th in the nation in suicide deaths in 2017, when its rate had also been 19 deaths per 100,000, which amounted to 825 total deaths. The 2019 change in ranking is due to several factors, including a 2.1% decrease in suicide deaths nationwide and increased suicide rates in Oregon.

The data for youth in 2019 were more promising. That year, the rate of suicide for youth ages 10 to 24 decreased for the first time since 2015. In both 2019 and 2018, Oregon ranked 11th highest in the nation for youth suicide deaths. Preliminary information indicates that the youth suicide rate decreased again in 2020, pending finalized 2020 data released by the CDC.

“Every loss to suicide is a tragedy,” said Dean E. Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at Oregon Health Authority. “Our state has done a tremendous amount of work in suicide prevention in the past two years, including launching new programs that provide emotional support for COVID-19 concerns. While it appears that Oregon has not seen increased deaths by suicide linked to the pandemic in 2020, Oregon’s rates of suicide in recent years are still concerning. After all, Oregon remains above the national average for suicides, and above average for youth age groups as well.”

According to preliminary data, there were about 90 fewer suicides across all ages in Oregon in 2020 than in 2019, and about 28 fewer than in 2018. In addition, the number of suicide-related visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers in January of 2021 are similar to the final quarter of 2020, and the number of suicide-related calls to Oregon Poison Center in January 2021 are similar to the final quarter of 2020. The percent of suicide-related visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers in January 2021 is similar to the final quarter of 2020.

Call volume to Lines for Life, a regional substance abuse and suicide prevention nonprofit that operates several crisis helplines, has increased annually since 2016. There have been no increases in call volume beyond what’s expected, and of the crisis calls staff answer, roughly the same percent of callers reported thinking about suicide in 2020 as those who did in 2019.

The state continues to focus on improving and expanding suicide prevention efforts. Funding was allocated to Youth Suicide Prevention programming in 2019 and is now available statewide. In 2019, Oregon passed legislation creating an adult suicide prevention coordinator position at OHA that would be responsible for developing an Adult Suicide Intervention and Prevention Plan (ASIPP) for the state to identify action steps that can be taken to reduce suicide among Oregonians 25 and older. More than 100 partners across the state are supporting the plan’s development, which should be completed this fall.

In fall 2020, OHA received federal funding through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to support health systems in providing safer and specific suicide care for adults 25 and older through a nationally recognized model known as the Zero Suicide Initiative. This approach aims to improve care and support for persons at risk of suicide served by health systems.

This federal funding has allowed OHA to hire full-time staff to support health systems through training and development of tools that support adults 25 and older in addition to the adult suicide prevention coordinator position providing dedicated staff to reduce suicide among Oregon adults 25 and older. OHA is collaborating on suicide prevention efforts across all ages with partners to reduce suicides and the impacts of suicide on all Oregonians.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please know that help is available:

• Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 run by Lines For Life at 800-273-8255 or text “273TALK” to 839863 (text services available Monday–Friday, 2–6 p.m. Pacific Time). The Veterans Crisis Lines can be reached by calling the above number and pressing “1.” En español: 1-888-628-9454. TTY: Dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
• YouthLine is a teen-to-teen crisis and help line. Teens are available to help daily from 4–10 p.m. Pacific Time (off-hour calls answered by Lines for Life). Call 877-968-8491, text “teen2teen” to 839863 or chat at oregonyouthline.org.
• See Crisis Services by Oregon County and a list of crisis lines on OHA’s website.
• The Safe + Strong website and helpline operate 24/7 (1-800-923-4357). Safe + Strong is designed to support people who are facing challenges related to COVID-19 or other life stressors. Use the website as a tool to help make sense of what you’re going through and to learn more about what resources and support can help you, your loved ones, and the communities you live and work in.

Portland, OR —  Amy McBride, a social sciences teacher at ACCESS Academy for Portland Public Schools, has been nominated by the Oregon Historical Society for the Patricia Behring Teacher of the Year Award for her work with students on the Oregon History Day program, an affiliate of the National History Day® contest.

Established in 1974, National History Day® engages more than a half-million students and 30,000 teachers annually. Students conduct original research on historical topics of interest and present their research as a documentary, exhibit, paper, performance, or website. Students may compete first at the local level, and top entries are invited to compete at the national contest. 

ACCESS Academy serves a population of highly accelerated learners in grades 1–8, many of whom are twice exceptional (2E) students. ACCESS students are often outliers in their neighborhood schools, where their unique needs and talents are often undiscovered and the learning approach and discipline plans do not match their needs. McBride decided to get her students involved with Oregon History Day in 2018 due to its flexible, project-based learning that immerses students in active historical research. Oregon History Day readily matches the level, rate, and different social challenges and strengths of students, and allows students to work individually or in small groups studying historical topics of personal interest

McBride trained two additional teachers at her school to participate in the program, and serves as an Oregon History Day mentor for Oregon teachers. She also organizes a History Day open house for students’ families, where participating students present their projects to visitors.

Each of the 58 National History Day® affiliates may nominate one middle school teacher for the Patricia Behring Award annually. As the National History Day® affiliate organizer for Oregon, the Oregon Historical Society is proud to nominate McBride as its 2021 nominee. Nominees for the $10,000 award demonstrate a commitment to engaging students in historical learning through the innovative use of primary sources, implementation of active learning strategies to foster historical thinking skills, and participation in the National History Day® contests. Each nominee receives $500 as a result of their nomination. The national winner will be announced in June 2021.

“Teachers are among the greatest resources children have to develop the skills necessary to become critical thinkers,” said National History Day® Executive Director Dr. Cathy Gorn. “The nominees for the Behring Award have shown a dedication to teaching that goes beyond the classroom.”

For more information on National History Day®, visit nhd.org. For details on how to get involved with Oregon History Day, visit ohs.org/oregonhistoryday.

About the Oregon Historical Society

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

DONALD, Ore. — The northern Willamette Valley town of Donald (population a little over 1,100) has been designated by the national Arbor Day Foundation as Oregon’s newest Tree City USA. Donald joins 68 other Oregon cities and towns that have earned the designation.

Donald Mayor Rick Olmsted said, “'The City is very honored to be named Oregon's newest Tree City USA. The importance of trees contributing to a healthy environment inside a city cannot be understated.”

Kristin Ramstad, manager of ODF’s Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Program, said

Donald met the four minimum requirements all Tree Cities USA must satisfy to earn the title, including:

• a tree board
• a tree ordinance
• a community forestry program with a budget of at least $2 per resident
• a proclamation and observance of Arbor Day

“Donald has gone well beyond these minimums to really engage residents in learning more about their local trees and celebrating their value to the community,” notes Ramstad.

Like many Oregon communities, the COVID-19 pandemic forced Donald officials in 2020 to postpone many fun tree-related events. Those are now being rescheduled for later this summer and fall, including:

• a tree planting during a planned dedication ceremony for Donald’s new Hometown Park
• a tree scavenger hunt
• a tree art contest organized by the Donald Tree Board
• a series of talks on tree-related topics, to be hosted by the Tree Board

Also on the City’s 2021 work plan is updating the town’s approved street tree list. Such lists help ensure that the right trees are planted in the right place, such as requiring shorter-maturing trees under powerlines. This will reduce future pruning costs to maintain wires free from branches, keeping costs down for ratepayers.

Donald Tree Board’s Vice Chair Neil Strathdee said, “Being designated as a Tree City USA is another example of the City’s commitment to the environment. Caring for our tree resources as the City grows is vital, both for physical and mental health.”

Like many other cities in Oregon, the February ice storm caused a great deal of damage to many trees in Donald. Mayor Olmsted said of the weather event, “This increases our need to educate the public on maintaining healthy trees and knowing which trees are best suited for new or replacement plantings.'

To learn how your community can become a Tree City USA, go to https://www.arborday.org/programs/treecityusa/standards.cfm

To see the full list of Tree Cities USA in Oregon, visit https://www.arborday.org/programs/treecityusa/treecities.cfm?chosenstate=Oregon

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Salem – Committing to workplace health and safety is no small task. New hazards and challenges arise – sometimes unexpectedly. Stepping back to re-assess how far you’ve come and how far you still need to go can be difficult during the daily thrum of work.

Yet, it is essential. That is why Oregon OSHA encourages employers and workers across the state to take part in Safety Break for Oregon. The annual event – now in its 18th year – calls on employers and workers at a variety of worksites to pause and reflect on  the importance of protecting people from hazards and harm while on the job.

Will you take the Wednesday, May 12, stand-down as an opportunity to refresh your knowledge and training? Will you conduct  a clear-eyed examination of where safety and health could be improved at your worksite?  Or will you celebrate your successes and recognize emerging safety leaders?

The choice of activity is yours. Sign up now. You could even win a prize.

“This stand-down provides an opportunity for employers and workers to remember the high value they should place on preventing injury and illness in the workplace,” said Michael Wood, administrator of Oregon OSHA. “Safety Break for Oregon is not merely symbolic. At its best, it offers an opportunity to focus on the best ways to make safety a reality in the workplace by identifying and eliminating hazards.”

“And this year’s event takes on even greater importance,” Wood added, “when you consider our collective and ongoing project to keep Oregon workers safe – from workplace health and safety hazards of all kinds – during the global coronavirus pandemic.”

Oregon OSHA encourages employers and workers to share their Safety Break activities on social media:

• Share what your worksite is doing by using #SafetyBreak and #OregonOSHA hashtags
• Tag Oregon OSHA on Facebook at @OregonOSHA and at @OregonDCBS on Twitter
• Check out what organizations have shared on social media during previous Safety Break events by using #TBT

Those who participate in Safety Break are expected to follow the appropriate guidance and rules related to COVID-19 in the workplace. Companies that sign up online by Friday, May 7, and participate in Safety Break for Oregon will be entered to win one of three $100 checks, to be used for a luncheon of their choice.

The prizes will go to participating companies as part of a random drawing. The Oregon SHARP Alliance sponsors the contest. The nonprofit group promotes safety and health management by encouraging teamwork and cooperation among people, employers, and organizations to improve workplace health and safety for Oregon workers.

For more information, ideas on how to host an event, or to download graphics, visit the Safety Break for Oregon website. Learn more about Oregon OSHA’s workplace guidance and resources related to COVID-19.

The division offers free consultation services for employers (no citations or fines), as well as technical specialists:

Consultation services – Provides free assistance with safety and health programs

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Field offices
• Online
• Email: consult.web@oregon.gov

   Technical staff – Helps employers understand requirements

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Online
• Email: tech.web@oregon.gov  

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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, visit 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.dcbs.oregon.gov.

The Hood River County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to ORS 163A.215, which authorizes Community Corrections to inform the public when the release of information will enhance public safety and protection.

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

LEVEL III Sex Offender

Name: Nathan L Lorengel, DOB: 04/16/1986, Race: W, Sex: M

Height: 5'8", Weight: 160, Hair: BRO, Eyes, BRO

Residence: 4095 Bartlett Dr, Hood River

Nathan Lorengel is on probation for the crime of: Rape 1.

This person was granted supervision on: 02/01/2021.

Supervision expiration:  10/03/2032

Special conditions:   ORS 163.476

No places where minors congregate, No contact with minors (male/female)

Sex offender treatment, Submit to polygraph, No intoxicating beverages.

Other: Nathan Lorengel has been convicted of Rape 1, victim was a juvenile female.

Parole and Probation Deputy: Shaun Anderson

Phone: 541-387-6862

Email: sanderson@hoodriversheriff.com 

The Hood River County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to ORS 163A.215, which authorizes Community Corrections to inform the public when the release of information will enhance public safety and protection.

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

LEVEL III Sex Offender

Name: Nathan L Lorengel, DOB: 04/16/1986, Race: W, Sex: M

Height: 5'8", Weight: 160, Hair: BRO, Eyes, BRO

Residence: 4095 Bartlett Dr, Hood River

Nathan Lorengel is on probation for the crime of: Rape 1.

This person was granted supervision on: 02/01/2021.

Supervision expiration:  10/03/2032

Special conditions:   ORS 163.476

No places where minors congregate, No contact with minors (male/female)

Sex offender treatment, Submit to polygraph, No intoxicating beverages.

Other: Nathan Lorengel has been convicted of Rape 1, victim was a juvenile female.

Parole and Probation Deputy: Shaun Anderson

Phone: 541-387-6862

Email: sanderson@hoodriversheriff.com 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Health continues to work through its COVID-19 vaccine referral list to connect eligible people with facilities that have vaccine. To date, Public Health has made more than 34,000 referrals for vaccination to local providers.

Public Health is encouraging everyone who submits a referral request to check their email daily, including email junk folders. Providers are reaching out to people who have submitted requests using the contact information provided on the webform. Public Health is also contacting people to schedule appointments at the Tower Mall vaccination site opening Friday.

People awaiting referrals may receive an email from Clark County Public Health, Legacy, PeaceHealth Southwest, Kaiser or The Vancouver Clinic. The emails will contain information about how to schedule an appointment for vaccination.

For more information about local COVID-19 vaccination efforts and to submit a request for COVID-19 vaccine, visit the Clark County Public Health COVID-19 vaccine webpage or call 888.225.4625. The Public Health call center operates 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.

(Salem, Ore. – March 4, 2021) – Kidney Care Physicians is Salem Health’s newest Community Connect partner, providing the independent physician practice seamless access to Epic, the health system’s electronic medical record.  Community Connect is Epic’s model for creating collaborative healthcare networks. It enables hospitals and health systems, like Salem Health, to extend Epic to community practices.

The integration across practices allows providers to see more information when viewing patient charts, such as clinical documentation and exams. Patients will benefit from having the integration of their medical information in Salem Health’s MyChart system. Through MyChart, patients can see medications, test results, upcoming appointments, medical bills, and correspondence with care teams all in one place.

“An integrated community health record creates a better experience and better outcomes for patients,” said Leah Mitchell, Chief Integration Officer, Salem Health. “Kidney Care’s mission aligns well with Salem Health’s mission to improve the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve. We are pleased to offer Community Connect to our health care partners to enhance patient satisfaction.”

Kidney Care Physicians was founded on the idea that early diagnosis, attentiveness to patients' needs, and dedication to patient education will give a high quality of life to renal patients. Their mission is to provide a standard of excellence in renal patient care to improve the quality of life for its patients.

Kidney Care joins Community Connect as of Feb. 22. Salem Clinic became Salem Health’s first Community Connect partner in 2016 and Oregon Heart Center joined in 2018. Kidney Care’s two locations are now participating in Community Connect:  Salem Hospital, Building B, 875 Oak St., SE, Suite 5070, Salem, Ore.; and 550 Dietz Ave., NE, Keizer, Ore. 

About Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics

Salem Health offers exceptional care to people in and around Oregon’s mid-Willamette Valley. It comprises hospitals in Salem and Dallas, a medical group of primary and specialty care providers, plus other affiliated services. Visit us at www.salemhealth.org; “Like” us on www.facebook.com/salemhealth; follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @salemhealth; and view us at www.youtube.com/salemhealth. 

OREGON CITY –Clackamas Community College music students have been perfecting their pitch and tuning their instruments to bring viewers a virtual spotlight concert series. The winter concert premieres live March 12, 7 p.m. at www.facebook.com/clackamascommcollege and www.youtube.com/clackamascommcollege.

The Illuminate Virtual Spotlight brings audiences full ensemble pieces created entirely from a distance. This end-of-term event includes performances by the chamber choir, wind ensemble and classical guitar ensemble. Music students will share an eclectic collection of choral, jazz, classical and electronic tunes that will bring music to listeners’ ears.

Tune in for a concert teaser at https://youtu.be/S9nSJYCmIMU. For more information about the virtual spotlight concert series, contact Ami Collofello at ami.collofello@clackamas.edu. For more information about music events at CCC, visit www.clackamas.edu/music-events.

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The MESD Board of Directors will meet in Executive Session on Monday, March 8th at 6:00 p.m. under (ORS 192.660(2)(i))-To review and evaluate the employment-related performance of the chief executive officer of any public body, a public officer, employee or staff member who does not request and open hearing. 

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/96530481744?pwd=cEtMZnBBZG9OcHM2WFZ0WGxIL25KQT09
Meeting ID: 965 3048 1744
Passcode: 489904

INCLUDES CORRECTED LINK TO RESERVATION PAGE FOR DEVIL'S LAKE: https://oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/devils-lake-state-recreation-area/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=OR&parkId=402130

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LINCOLN CITY, Oregon. — The campground at Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area will reopen April 5 after being closed for more than a year due to COVID-19 and associated reduced staffing due to revenue shortfalls, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) announces. Visitors will be able to reserve campsites and yurts up to six months in advance starting at 6 a.m. March 8 for all stays April 5 and beyond.

In a change from previous years, yurts will require a reservation and minimum two-night stay, and OPRD is imposing a rest day between reservations to allow for deep cleaning. Reservations can be made from one day to six months in advance starting at 6 a.m. March 8 through OPRD’s partner site, oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com or by calling 800-452-5687.

“We are thrilled to be able to reopen this popular and beloved park. With cleaning and safety protocols in place, I’m confident we can do so in a manner that’s safe for visitors and staff alike,” said Park Manager Janie Lascano.

The hiker/biker camp will remain closed until further notice. Some services may be reduced, and visitors should check ahead at stateparks.oregon.gov for the latest information.

Visitors should continue to follow safety protocols while visiting state parks: limit the size of gatherings, wear face coverings, give space to others and wash hands often. For more information on what to expect while visiting state parks, visit our COVID-19 FAQ page.

Located in the heart of Lincoln City and a short walk from Devil’s Lake, the Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area campground has 87 campsites, 28 with full hookups, and 10 yurts. It is within walking distance to the beach at D River State Recreation Site. More information about the park is on the Oregon State Parks official website at stateparks.oregon.gov.

Portland's thriving live music scene gets back to business this spring with 2 all-new concert series at Oaks Park!  Showgoers enjoy live music by bands on stage from the socially-distanced safety of their car as the show streams through their FM radios, or guests may bring chairs and blankets to enjoy the show in the fresh air under the stars! 

Tickets must be purchased online in advance at oakspark.com/concerts. One ticket valid for all vehicle occupants.

Presented by Oaks Park, Webracadabra Events, and Entercom Portland

Mixtape Revival Concert Series

The DeLorean isn’t the only 4-wheeled time machine – everyone’s car will take a trip back to the end of the last millennium with crowd-favorite covers from the 80s and 90s performed live on stage by Oregon's coolest retro band, "The Hair Jordans." Showgoers can film their carload belting out the classics then submit their "car-aoke" vids for a chance to be projected during the show and win great prizes! All-ages show perfect for date night, a fun COVID-pod outing, or for family fun.

• Fridays, March 12-April 16, 2021
• Gates/Concessions Open: 6 PM
• Showtime: 7-9:30 PM
• $49 per vehicle

Carchella PDX

An assortment of the Northwest's best musicians are showcased at this weekly live concert series. The show starts with interviews and commentary, then the drive-in gets rocking with a performance by a special headliner band!

• Saturdays, March 13-April 17 (plus a special bonus performance Sunday, April 18)
• Gates/Concessions Open: 6 PM
• Showtime: 7-9:30 PM
• $59 per vehicle

Week 1 (March 13): Oregon native Gabby Holt brings a balance of shimmering vocals, dynamic guitar work, and a profound technical command of the stage to create the next generation of anthem rock. 

Week 2 (March 20): John Shipe presents triumphant anthems, slow-burns, and rollicking stompers with empathy, humor, passion, and swagger. Shipe has opened for Bob Dylan, Cake, Los Lobos, Hootie & Blowfish, and more.  

Week 3 (March 27): The Northwest's own Howling Waters with Bob Shoemaker and Jeff Hudis playing hard rocking delta-boogie blues.  

Week 4 (April 3): Nationally acclaimed singer/songwriter Justin Sheehy is the complete package behind the microphone. His strong, rhythmic guitar and smooth vocals will pull you in as he interprets songs from the 60’s till now, thrown together with catchy, memorable originals and a charming, easy-going on-stage personality.  

Week 5 (April 10): Vox Canyon is a Carchella PDX original. This band is the brainchild of Warren Dexter, the former side-man for Ike Willis (of the Frank Zappa band), and features music to save the world by. The band is made up of some long-time Portland musicians and will feature the songs that bring people together, as so much is tearing us apart.  

Week 6 (April 17 & 18): The Garcia Birthday Band - SOLD OUT!

Performer lineup subject to change.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University looks forward to having the campus community Together Again for an in-person fall term following state safety protocols. WOU expects to offer an expanded range of course delivery options so that students can make the best choices for them.

 “We are all looking with renewed hope for fall term 2021 to be Together Again,” said WOU Provost Rob Winningham. “Though masks and social distancing will likely still be necessary, we expect WOU to have a robust offering of courses with an in-person component.”

Winningham said campus activities also should be closer to “normal,” with student and campus activities such as arts, co-curricular activities, intercollegiate athletics, music, theater and myriad other events organized with safety guidelines in place.

University Housing will configure residence halls to maximize capacity while also following COVID protocols, said Dean of Students Tina Fuchs. Dining establishments on campus are expected to operate much more extensively than they did during the 2020-21 academic year, when the number of students on campus was diminished.

Starting March 8, campus will be open for in-person admissions tours on an appointment-only basis, and the spring sports season gets under way in earnest this month.

The format for Commencement in June is still under discussion; an announcement is planned for the first week of spring term. Course modalities for summer term traditionally are largely online, and that remains the plan for summer 2021.

“We are so looking forward to welcoming students and employees to campus in the fall, or earlier if vaccine distribution and state guidance allows, and we appreciate the sense of hope we are all feeling after a difficult year,” said Winningham. “For those who are eager to return to campus, we’ll have a full offering of class and campus life options. For people who feel safer at home for a while longer, course formats will be available for them as well. And, as always, we are prepared to respond if safety protocols change in Oregon.”

To learn more about WOU this fall, visit https://wou.edu/fall-2021.

About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, founded in 1856 and located in Monmouth, is the state’s oldest public university. Serving approximately 4,500 students, WOU is a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution with nearly 75 percent of the student population being from Oregon. A significant portion of attendees are members of under-represented groups, veterans or non-traditional students. WOU is Oregon’s campus of choice for those seeking a transformative education in a supportive, student-centered learning community where classes are taught by faculty. Together we succeed.

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12:30 pm Live Video Press Conference With Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty (Media Only)

A press conference with Portland City Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty has been scheduled for 12:30pm via Zoom link (posted below). The Commissioner will be addressing recent inquiries from local media about a vehicle crash that occurred yesterday evening in east Portland. There will be a short statement by Commissioner Hardesty followed by questions from media who are present on the Zoom session.

Link: https://zoom.us/j/91317765534?pwd=NnpzSlNFaEEvd3UvbWRzZnpaUi9EUT09

Instructions for journalists who plan to present questions to Commissioner Hardesty:

• Each journalist will be given record privileges to obtain a copy of the press conference/Zoom session. You must start the record function on your Zoom dashboard for this to start your individual recording.
• Audio functions will be turned off for all those logging into the zoom call. Video will be allowed so that the administrators can see if there are any issues by way of raised hands by anyone experiencing an issue during the session.
• Journalists who would like to submit a question for Commissioner Hardesty may do so through the chat function. Please be sure to submit your question to Everyone. This can be done at any time during the session.
• If there is anyone who plans to call into the Zoom session as opposed to logging in, please send a text to 503-260-9252 for more specific instructions. 

The Portland Water Bureau has been selected by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to receive a low-cost supplemental loan from the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program to construct the Bull Run Treatment Projects.  

The City is building the new facilities to meet federal and state safe drinking water standards. The first will improve corrosion control treatment to reduce lead from home and building plumbing in drinking water. The second, a new filtration facility and related pipelines, will filter water from Portland’s Bull Run supply before it goes to customers to remove a pathogen called?Cryptosporidium. 

“This unique federal financing will provide hundreds of millions in debt-service savings over the loan term,” said Portland Water Bureau Director Gabriel Solmer. “That’s a huge benefit to our customers, allowing us to reduce rate impacts while we make these important investments in the future of our water system.” 

Based on rate projections, the WIFIA loan will provide at least $247 million of debt-service savings to ratepayers over its term.  

“EPA is excited to partner with Portland to announce one of the very first WIFIA loans closed by the Biden-Harris Administration and the largest WIFIA loan ever issued by the agency,” said EPA’s Acting Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. “This project and EPA’s financial support WIFIA loan illustrate how strategic partnerships can improve public health and help address climate stress, while creating jobs and saving ratepayers money.” 

The City estimates construction of the Bull Run Treatment Projects will create 4,700 to 7,500 direct construction jobs. The construction contracts for the new filtration facility and pipelines will include Community Benefits Agreements that set workforce equity goals for people of color and women in the trades. The contracts also maximize opportunities for Disadvantaged, Minority-Owned, Women-Owned, Emerging Small Businesses, and Service-Disabled Veterans Business Enterprise contractors and subcontractors. 

“It’s absolutely critical that we provide equitable access to clean drinking water to all Oregonians,” said Gov. Kate Brown. “We must center equity as we make improvements to our water infrastructure systems, ensuring all Oregonians have access to clean drinking water, especially Oregon’s Black, Latino, Latina, and Latinx, Indigenous, tribal, Pacific Islander, Asian, and communities of color. 

“In Oregon, we are working to implement a 100-year vision for strategic investments in water projects and policy, as we work toward a sustainable water future that addresses the impacts of climate change. We must be forward thinking in our investments, knowing that our systems must be ready to withstand more severe weather events in the decades to come,” said Gov. Brown. 

“No matter where they live, every Oregonian deserves to have clean water to drink, and a modern, up-to-date system to treat their water,” said Sen. Jeff Merkley. “That was my guiding principle when I created the WIFIA program, and it’s the guiding principle behind the Bull Run Treatment Project. I remain as committed today to saving ratepayers’ money and putting reliable access to clean water within reach for all Oregonians as I was eight years ago when this program became law, and look forward to watching the Bull Run Treatment Project come to fruition.” 

The program is designed to provide loans with customized terms that can significantly reduce ratepayer costs and create jobs by accelerating investment in the nation’s critical water infrastructure. Borrowers have up to 35 years after substantial completion of a project to repay a loan, saving ratepayers money by allowing more time to pay the loan. 

“The City of Portland, and everyone who relies on clean, safe, and reliable drinking water, are grateful to Senator Merkley for his leadership in helping Portland and other communities protect access to clean water, and to Senator Ron Wyden, Representatives Earl Blumenauer and Suzanne Bonamici, Congressman Kurt Schrader, and the Biden-Harris administration for their support of the City’s efforts to invest in keeping our drinking water clean and safe,” said Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler.

This loan supports lasting, long-term investments in the Bull Run Treatment Projects to further protect health, support the economy, and prepare for the future of this community. 

“These projects echo the wisdom of our City’s founders who established Bull Run as our water source more than a century ago,” said City Commissioner Mingus Mapps, the Commissioner in Charge of Water. “We are safeguarding their legacy through long-term investment to protect public health and economic growth for the century ahead.” 

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 53 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,200 miles of pipes. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day.

March 3, 2021

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

Updated: Oregon reports 276 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 27 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 27 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 2,252, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 276 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 156,287.

Note: A large volume of backlogged electronic laboratory reports (ELRs) were received yesterday. As a result, today’s test counts are higher than anticipated. Test results were from Jan. 1 to March 1. Approximately 99% of these test results were negative results and today's percent positivity is lower than anticipated.

Oregon hits milestone: 1 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered

Today, OHA recorded more than 1 million vaccines administered to Oregonians. There were 22,346 doses recorded yesterday, bringing the total number of doses administered in the state to 1,019,767. The first dose was administered on Dec. 14, less than three months ago.

Approximately, one in five Oregonians who likely are eligible have received at least one dose. The vaccine has been delivered to every Oregon county, long-term care and residential care facilities, adult foster homes, group homes for those with disabilities, hospitals, mass vaccination events, mobile events, clinics, Tribal health centers, group homes, congregate care settings, pharmacies, outpatient clinics, federally qualified health centers and other locations throughout the state.

Oregon has now administered a cumulative total of 1,019,767 first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. To date, 1,310,175 doses of vaccine have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

 “This could not happen without the partnerships that have been strengthened and developed to move Oregon closer to community immunity, and the thousands of providers, volunteers, nurses and countless other Oregonians who made this happen,” said OHA Director Patrick Allen. “Every day we are delivering more than 22,000 doses of vaccine that will bring us to the end of this difficult journey for so many.

“Our ability to meet our timelines for opening up scheduling opportunities to additional groups will still require an adequate and consistent supply of doses from the federal government, a large number of Oregonians who are able and willing to get vaccinated and the ability of our vaccination sites to immunize all eligible persons.”

As Oregon continues the vaccine rollout, OHA encourages all Oregonians to keep taking the protective measures to help keep themselves, families, coworkers, loved ones, friends and communities safe and healthy. We continue to recommend that all Oregonians:

• Maintain 6 feet of physical distance;
• Wear a face covering when outside the house;
• Practice good hand hygiene;
• Avoid any gatherings with non-household members;
• If you start to have symptoms — even mild ones — consult with a medical provider quickly to get instructions on how to care for yourself and your household members and to determine whether to get tested;
• And finally, if you get a call from a local public health authority, answer it, and take their advice on how to protect yourself and those around you.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 140, which is nine fewer than yesterday. There are 31 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is two more than yesterday.

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

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Cases and deaths

Details of today’s reported deaths will be published later.

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (2), Benton (3), Clackamas (20), Clatsop (2), Columbia (3), Coos (24), Deschutes (10), Douglas (22), Grant (2), Harney (2), Jackson (47), Jefferson (5), Josephine (5), Klamath (2), Lane (15), Linn (4), Malheur (2), Marion (28), Multnomah (26), Polk (4), Tillamook (4), Umatilla (7), Union (10), Washington (25) and Yamhill (2).

Oregon’s 2,226th COVID-19 death is a 101-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive on Feb. 9 and died on Feb. 14 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,227th COVID-19 death is a 96-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on Feb. 6 and died on Feb. 14 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,228th COVID-19 death is a 100-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on Feb. 6 and died on Feb. 12 at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,229th COVID-19 death is an 80-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on Jan. 22 and died on Feb. 21 at Providence Portland Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,230th COVID-19 death is a 66-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on Jan. 22 and died on Feb. 10 at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,231st COVID-19 death is a 97-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive on Jan. 25 and died on Feb. 21 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,232nd COVID-19 death is a 95-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on Jan. 19 and died on Feb. 15 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,233rd COVID-19 death is an 85-year-old woman in Deschutes County who tested positive on Jan. 22 and died on Feb. 24 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,234th COVID-19 death is a 65-year-old woman in Jackson County who tested positive on Jan. 18 and died on Feb. 28 at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,235th COVID-19 death is a 50-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Jan. 28 and died on Feb. 22 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,236th COVID-19 death is an 82-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Jan. 27 and died on Feb. 14 at Providence Portland Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,237th COVID-19 death is an 83-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Jan. 25 and died on Feb. 10 at Kaiser Permanente Westside Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,238th COVID-19 death is a 71-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Jan. 11 and died on Feb. 12 at Providence Portland Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,239th COVID-19 death is an 89-year-old man in Lane County who tested positive on Dec. 20 and died on Jan. 13 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,240th COVID-19 death is an 80-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Feb. 1 and died on Feb. 11 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,241st COVID-19 death is an 85-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Feb. 5 and died on Feb. 22 at Legacy Mt. Hood Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,242nd COVID-19 death is a 75-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Feb. 3 and died on Feb. 24 at Adventist Health Portland. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,243rd COVID-19 death is a 74-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Feb. 1 and died on Feb. 14 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,244th COVID-19 death is an 89-year-old woman in Benton County who tested positive on Jan. 17 and died on Feb. 18 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,245th COVID-19 death is an 82-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Feb. 8 and died on Feb. 14 at Providence Portland Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,246th COVID-19 death is an 80-year-old man in Yamhill County who tested positive on Dec. 29 and died on Feb. 19 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,247th COVID-19 death is an 85-year-old woman in Yamhill County who tested positive on Dec. 29 and died on Feb. 17 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,248th COVID-19 death is an 88-year-old man in Yamhill County who tested positive on Jan. 24 and died on Feb. 14 at her residence. He  had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,249th COVID-19 death is a 47-year-old man in Wallowa County who tested positive on Jan. 25 and died on March 2 at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,250th COVID-19 death is a 100-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Feb. 18 and died on March 1 at Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,251st COVID-19 death is a 77-year-old man in Josephine County who tested positive on Feb. 13 and died on Feb. 23 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,252nd COVID-19 death is an 84-year-old woman in Polk County who tested positive on Jan. 20 and died on Jan. 30 at Salem Hospital. She had underlying conditions.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations

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

OREGON CITY - Clackamas Community College has launched a technical math course taught entirely in Spanish. Math 50 is designed for career technical education students in fields like manufacturing, welding, automotive and horticulture, and focuses on critical thinking and problem solving. 

“Required math courses can be a barrier to success for some. By teaching the course in a student’s first language, we are making it easier for students to understand the concepts and skills being taught,” Mark Yannotta, CCC math instructor, said. 

As Clackamas Community College’s district continues to grow in diversity, the college is working to increase opportunities for everyone in the community. The college is adding more courses and pathways for those who want to learn English and those for who English is not their first language.

“This is a pretty new idea, even nationally,” Yannotta said. “By having a bilingual math instructor, we can better serve students and help them succeed.”

Math 50 in Spanish will be taught spring, summer and fall terms. Registration for the spring term is now open.

To learn how to get started at CCC, visit www.clackamas.edu/getting-started. There is also a link to a Spanish-translated version available on the page. CCC also offers advising services in Spanish for those who need help getting started.

For more information or questions about the Math 15 course, contact Adriana Aristizabal at ianaa@clackamas.edu">adrianaa@clackamas.edu. 

CCC ofrece Matemáticas en Español

OREGON CITY - Clackamas Community College está ofreciendo un curso de matemáticas técnicas que se imparte totalmente en español. Math 50 está diseñado para estudiantes de educación técnica profesional en campos como manufactura, soldadura, automotriz y horticultura, y se enfoca en el pensamiento crítico y la resolución de problemas.

“Los cursos obligatorios de matemáticas pueden ser una barrera para el éxito de algunos. Al enseñar el curso en el primer idioma de un estudiante, estamos facilitando que los alumnos comprendan los conceptos y las habilidades que se enseñan”, dijo Mark Yannotta, instructor de matemáticas de CCC.

A medida que el distrito de Clackamas Community College continúa creciendo en diversidad, la universidad está trabajando para aumentar las oportunidades para todos en la comunidad. La universidad está agregando más cursos y vías o caminos para aquellos que quieren aprender inglés y para aquellos que el inglés no es su primer idioma.

"Esta es una idea bastante nueva, incluso a nivel nacional", dijo Yannotta.  Al tener un instructor de matemáticas bilingüe, podemos servir mejor a los estudiantes y ayudarlos a tener éxito".

Math 50 en español se enseñará durante las temporadas de primavera, verano y otoño. La inscripción para el trimestre de primavera se abre el 22 de febrero.

Para saber o para aprender cómo empezar en CCC, visite http://www.clackamas.edu/getting-started.También hay un enlace a una versión traducida al español disponible en la página. Clackamas Community College también ofrece servicios de asesoramiento en español para aquellos que necesitan ayuda para comenzar.

Para obtener más información o si tiene preguntas sobre el curso de Matemáticas 50, comuníquese con Adriana Aristizabal, instructor de Matemáticas de CCC, enviando un email a ianaa@clackamas.edu">adrianaa@clackamas.edu.

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Umpqua Bank employee volunteers are among those providing free tax preparation assistance

Millions of dollars go unclaimed each year during tax season. This year, more than ever, filing taxes can put money back into pockets of those who need it most.

Among the IRS-certified volunteers providing assistance, Umpqua Bank employee volunteers contribute more than 200 hours annually to assist nonprofit organizations with free tax preparation for low-income residents to help them claim important federal tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit. Similar state tax credits may also be claimed.

The Earned Income Tax Credit, which may give families up to $6,660 back when they file taxes, is a federal and state tax credit for people making up to $56,844 per year. Too many miss out because they simply do not know about it. Check eligibility requirements for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and other credits, which can still be claimed going back to 2017.

“Only three out of four eligible Oregonians claim the tax credits for which they are eligible, according to CASH Oregon,” said Brenden Butler, Umpqua Bank vice president and community development officer. “Umpqua Bank employees are committed this year, as we are every year, to help return as many tax credits as possible back into the community.”

"MFS CASH Oregon is dedicated to helping Oregonians access the Earned Income Tax Credit, and we're grateful to all our volunteers, including Umpqua Bank associates, for their ongoing commitments," Riley Eldredge, MFS CASH Oregon Program Manager.

Oregon and Washington locations to seek free tax assistance include MFS CASH Oregon, NeighborWorks Umpqua’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), United Way of King County, United Way My Free Taxes, and AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide. During the current tax season, advance appointments are required and most assistance will be conducted remotely.

Pre-pandemic, Umpqua Bank began ramping up its virtual volunteering infrastructure as part of its human-digital strategy, expanding upon the Bank’s long-standing employee volunteer program. Since 2004, Umpqua Bank associates have served more than 550,000 volunteer hours.

The bank’s Connect Volunteer Network allocates each employee 40 hours of paid volunteer time off annually, and the bank also has an employee giving match program. For more information on the EITC, visit https://www.eitc.irs.gov/. For tools to help file your return for free online or seek assistance, visit www.cashoregon.org.

In January 2020, McMinnville Police Department patrol officers responded to a residence in the city regarding a 33 year-old adult male inappropriately touching a girl under 10 years of age.  The caller notified police that they had received a call from the child’s mother, asking for suggestions on what to do after the child disclosed inappropriate touching by Erick Munoz-Diaz, a resident of McMinnville.  The case was transferred to the McMinnville Police Department Detective Section for further investigation.

The child was seen at Juliette’s House, a local child abuse assessment center, and disclosed multiple events where Munoz-Diaz had sexually abused her.  Shortly after the Juliette’s House assessment took place, Munoz-Diaz left Yamhill County and began working in Marion County under a fictitious name.  With assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, Munoz-Diaz was located, taken into custody on April 23, 2020, and lodged at the Yamhill County Jail.  Munoz-Diaz was subsequently indicted for child sexual abuse charges in Yamhill County.  As part of a negotiated settlement, Munoz-Diaz pled no contest to 3 counts of Sexual Abuse in the 1st Degree in Yamhill County on February 26, 2021 and was sentenced to 150 months in DOC custody.

As is often the case with crimes involving child sexual abuse, child abuse offenders manipulate others to enter and remain in a position of trust with the victims and victims’ family members.  There have been many newsworthy and notable examples where child abuse offenders were able to ensure their victims’ silence for years or even decades after the abuse ended.  In this instance, a concerned adult learned of Munoz-Diaz’s inappropriate behavior and made a report that ultimately ended his pattern of child abuse.  If you witness or learn of circumstances that indicate a child is being abused or neglected, please notify your local law enforcement agency or Department of Human Services.

The McMinnville Police Department would like to thank Juliette’s House, Department of Human Services Child Protective Services, U.S. Marshals Service, and the Yamhill County District Attorney’s office for their cooperation and assistance in bringing this case to completion.

These four branches are the first to open as part of OnPoint's rollout of 20 new in-store branches across Oregon and Southwest Washington in 2021

PORTLAND, Ore., March 4, 2021 – As part of the largest branch and service area expansion in its history, OnPoint Community Credit Union announced today it will open four of the 20 new Fred Meyer branches this month. These new Oregon branches are in Cornelius, South Hillsboro, East Gresham and Sandy. With these four openings, OnPoint will operate 40 branches in communities across Oregon and Southwest Washington. OnPoint is also slated to open 16 additional branches within Fred Meyer locations across the region in 2021.

“As the largest credit union in Oregon, we are always pursuing innovation and partnerships that value our members’ time and help them achieve their financial goals,” said Rob Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Our new Fred Meyer branches will provide these communities with quick and easy access to our financial resources and expertise at a time when they need it most. There’s nothing more central to a community than its neighborhood grocery store, and we’re honored to partner with Fred Meyer.”

Each in-store branch will offer members a complete suite of financial services, including membership enrollment, consumer and commercial lending, mortgages, financial planning, ATM and notarization.  OnPoint’s new branches will offer existing and new members special grand opening promotions through the end of the year, including a $200 bonus for new members.

With the opening of these four branches, OnPoint will create a total of 30 jobs across these local economies. Visit the Careers section of OnPoint's website to learn more about becoming part of the OnPoint team at one of the new in-store branches.

Sandy Branch – 16625 SE 362nd Dr., Sandy, OR 97055

Opening March 19, 2021

LeeAnn Baker has been with OnPoint since 2011 and will serve as the Branch Manager of the Sandy Branch. Baker has more than 18 years of experience in financial services. She and her husband, Dave, live in Sandy with their two children.   

OnPoint will donate $2,500 to Ant Farm Youth Services, a program helping children connect with the community and learn how to live healthily through educational assistance, job skill development, outdoor leisure and recreation, horticulture and art classes. Ant Farm Youth Services also runs the Sandy Farmers Market in the summer.

East Gresham Branch – 2497 SE Burnside Rd., Gresham, OR 97080

Opening March 20, 2021

Alyssa Gonzales will lead the East Gresham Branch as Branch Manager. Alyssa has more than 15 years of experience in financial services and has been with OnPoint since 2010. Gonzales and her husband, Brian, live in Gresham with their two children, Elias and Ariela. 

OnPoint will donate $2,500 to Family of Friends, which leverages the power of mentoring relationships in East Multnomah County to support positive self-identity and youth leadership, giving young people a platform to build the futures they want for themselves and their communities.

Cornelius Branch – 2200 Baseline St., Cornelius, OR 97113

Opening March 26, 2021

Marlen Mendoza has worked in financial services for 20 years, joining OnPoint in 2008, and will lead the Cornelius Branch. Mendoza and her husband live in Cornelius with their two sons.

OnPoint will donate $2,500 to Centro Cultural of Washington County, which has served Latino families since 1972 with an ever-growing range of programs designed to create self-sufficient, engaged and active citizens.

South Hillsboro Branch – 6495 SE Tualatin Valley Hwy., Hillsboro, OR 97123

Opening March 27, 2021

Laurissa Bybee will serve as Branch Manager of the South Hillsboro Branch. Bybee brings 13 years of financial services experience to her new role, and has been with OnPoint since 2011. She and her husband, Kalib, live in Forest Grove with their cat, Jack. 

OnPoint will donate $2,500 to Capes & Crowns Foundation, which conducts inspiring photo sessions for children going through life-changing situations such as trauma, illness and disabilities.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 420,000 members and with assets of $7.9 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union's membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler, and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

To qualify, individuals must open a new membership with a personal checking account and receive direct deposit of at least $500 to that account within 60 days of the open date. A bonus of $200 will be credited to their checking account approximately 60 days after new account is opened. Accounts must be open and in good standing at time of payout to receive bonus. As of 2/1/21, APY (annual percentage yield) for Interest Checking is 0.05%. APY is subject to change. $500 minimum balance for Interest Checking; no minimum balance for OnPoint Checking. When Interest Checking average monthly balance falls below $500, a $7 monthly service fee applies. Fees may reduce earnings. Bonus will be included on a 1099-INT for tax purposes. Cannot be combined with other offers for opening a new membership, such as OnPoint Savers or Refer a Friend. Offer only available at OnPoint Fred Meyer Branches. Offer valid through 12/31/21 and subject to change. Business bonus: To qualify, a new membership must be opened with a business checking account and receive $500 in deposits to that account within 60 days of the open date. A bonus of $200 will be credited to their business checking account approximately 60 days after new account is opened. Accounts must be open and in good standing at time of payout to receive bonus. Bonus will be included on a 1099-Int for tax purposes. Cannot be combined with other offers for opening a new membership, such as OnPoint Savers or Refer a Friend. Offer only available at OnPoint Fred Meyer Branches. Offer valid through 12/31/21 and subject to change.

March 04, 2021

DA Mike Schmidt submits testimony in support of SB 704

PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt submitted testimony in support of Oregon Senate Bill 704.

A copy of the full testimony can be obtained by clicking here.  

Senate Bill 704 pertains to what is colloquially known as the “gay/trans panic defense.” In this defense, a person who commits the murder of a gay or transgender person subsequently attempts to excuse their criminal conduct on the basis that they did not know that their victim was gay or transgender and that they were so distraught upon learning this fact that they were unable to restrain themselves from committing murder.

“This theory has no basis in established psychology and has never been validated as a legitimate defense in Oregon. Blaming a victim for their murder is odious and has no place in Oregon law,” District Attorney Mike Schmidt said.

Senate Bill 704 clarifies that this defense cannot be made in a prosecution for murder in the second degree under Oregon law and is not a recognized form of “extreme emotional distress.” The bill further details that the discovery of or disclosure of a person’s perceived gender, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation cannot be the basis for using force against a person.

DA Schmidt added: “While we applaud these efforts, we also wish to make clear as prosecutors that the invoking of a person’s gender, gender identity or sexual orientation is not a defense to any crime under any circumstance and we will treat any such instance as what it is: A hate crime.”

#MCDA#

Media Contact:

Brent Weisberg, Communications Director

Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office

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

On Wednesday, March 3, 2021 at approximately 7:44 P.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a vehicle crash on Hwy 223 and Pleasant Drive in Dallas.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a pedestrian, Chloe Blatchley (77) of Dallas, was crossing Hwy 223 when she was struck by a Landrover, operated by Curtis Cook (72) of Dallas.

Blatchley sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

OSP was assisted by Polk County Sheriff's Office, ODOT and Dallas Fire Department.

  TIP OF THE WEEK

Date:          March 8, 2020                                     FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:     Sheriff Curtis Landers

                   541-265-0654

                   clanders@co.lincoln.or.us

NOISE ORDINANCE

The basic rule of the county noise ordinance is one of reasonableness.  The ordinance allows Sheriff’s Deputies to investigate complaints of excessive noise throughout the unincorporated areas of the county.  The ordinance states that Sheriff’s Deputies will determine the reasonableness of the noise in determining whether or not to issue a citation for a violation of the noise ordinance.  Deputies have received training and guidance on this issue.

The ordinance states that no person shall cause any noise which unreasonably disturbs or annoys another person of normal sensitivity, while the person is inside of a building.  Here are some examples of what could be considered unreasonable noise:

• Loud stereos
• Excessively loud vehicle exhaust, motor, or other mechanical sound.  (Louder than required to operate the vehicle or device)
• Musical instruments

The circumstances surrounding the noise shall be examined, taking into consideration several factors, including but not limited to:

• Time of day or night.
• Nature and zoning of the area where the noise is coming from.
• Duration of the noise.
• Volume and intensity of the noise.
• Whether the noise is plainly audible within the affected building.

You can still use your lawn equipment, complete repairs on your home or vehicle, and warm your car as long as you are acting reasonably.  Please think of how the noise you are making may affect those who live and work around you.  If a citation is issued for a violation of the noise ordinance, the penalty imposed by the court may be up to $500 for the first violation, and $1,000 for each subsequent violation.

If you have to make a noisy repair to your home or vehicle, or otherwise know you’ll be making some noise with a gathering that may disturb your neighbors, some advanced warning with a friendly conversation with the neighbors will likely help everyone get along.

Certain noise is exempt from the noise ordinance.  Required emergency sirens, emergency vehicles, and approved public gatherings such as sporting events are included in the list of exemptions.

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

(Salem) – Feb. 15 was the first day of a new special enrollment period triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. This limited-time window, which runs through May 15, has allowed nearly 2,000 additional Oregonians to enroll in health coverage outside the standard open enrollment period in the month of February, up 34 percent from the same time in 2020.

Traditionally, people in Oregon who qualify to shop through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace must do so during the annual open enrollment period, Nov. 1 to Dec. 15. If an individual or family experiences significant change during the year to to their household, income, or job status, they may qualify for a 60-day special enrollment period.

The 2021 COVID-19 special enrollment period does not have any special qualifiers, other than qualifying for a health plan through the Marketplace. To qualify for a Marketplace plan, people must live in the United States, be legally present in the United States (except Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals status), and not be incarcerated.

In 2020, more than 70 percent of Oregonians who chose plans through HealthCare.gov got an average of $450 per month in advanced premium tax credits to help lower their monthly premiums. Individuals making $51,040 or less per year, and families of four making $104,800 or less, may get help paying for coverage. People can also browse plans and find out how much savings they are eligible for at OregonHealthCare.gov/WindowShop.

Oregonians who do not get health insurance through their job or a program such as the Oregon Health Plan or Medicare may qualify for help paying for 2021 coverage through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. Even if people are temporarily uninsured or are currently enrolled in COBRA coverage, they can sign up for help before May 15 to get health insurance for the rest of 2021.

“We are encouraged to see so many Oregonians taking advantage of this enrollment opportunity,” said Chiqui Flowers, administrator of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. “Quality health coverage protects your financial future in the event that you get sick, injured, or something else unforeseen happens.”

To apply, go to OregonHealthCare.gov by May 15 and answer a few Oregon-specific questions to get to the right application. You can also search the “get help” directory on OregonHealthCare.gov to find an insurance agent or community partner organization to help complete the application and enroll. Insurance agents and community partners provide local, one-on-one assistance at no charge to the client. This help is available virtually and over the phone, and in person following safety protocols.

###

The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, a part of state government, helps people get health insurance when they do not have job-based coverage, and do not qualify for the Oregon Health Plan or another program. The Marketplace is the state-level partner to HealthCare.gov, and a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS). For more information, go to OregonHealthCare.gov.

Dr. Jeff Snell has been chosen the next superintendent of Vancouver Public Schools. The board of directors announced its unanimous decision on March 3, following interviews with the finalists, which were held in executive session. The announcement was made after reconvening to a public special board meeting that evening.

“We were honored to have two highly qualified candidates who could bring so much experience and leadership to our district, knowing that no matter what decision we made, we couldn’t go wrong,” said Board President Kyle Sproul. “The first thing that strikes you when you meet Dr. Snell is his empathy for others and his passion for inclusion. When you add in his past experience in Vancouver Public Schools and his deep connection to our local community, it became clear that he was the best choice to lead our district in this next chapter."

“I am grateful for this opportunity to come back to Vancouver and serve the students, staff, and community,” said Dr. Snell. “I am really excited about our future as we continue to build a welcoming community that brings out the best in our students and each of us!  I look forward to listening and learning through the transition process and really appreciate the school board's trust.”

Learn more about the new superintendent. 

The selection of the superintendent is the culmination of a national search conducted by McPherson & Jacobson that began in November. The process included several virtual community forums and a survey inviting members of the public to share their priorities for the next superintendent. A total of 34 applications were reviewed by the search firm. Board members considered 10 candidates before selecting four semifinalists. Community members had the opportunity to learn about the candidates in a webinar and provide feedback to the board through a survey. The semifinalists also discussed their qualifications online with key stakeholders invited by the board. With this feedback and subsequent virtual interviews, board members narrowed the candidates to two finalists. In-person interviews with the finalists were held March 2 and 3.  

The selection of Dr. Snell  is pending acceptance and final contract negotiations with the school board. Dr. Snell will begin his role as superintendent in July 2021.

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in a Virtual Executive & Business Meeting on Monday, March 8, 2021 online virtually with Zoom at the hour of 6:30 pm. 

The agenda is posted on our website at: https://www.parkrose.k12.or.us/index.php?id=275. 

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

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

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

Questions welcomed, please email: questions@parkrose.k12.or.us or leave a voice message at 503-408-2100.

The Oregon Office of Emergency Management has posted the Oregon Wildfire Recovery Update for March 3, 2021, to the Oregon Wildfire Resources page. See today's Wildfire Recovery update here. 

Photo Captions:

Example of an emergency kit from the American Red Cross. The Red Cross Cascades Region is offering free virtual preparedness training through March.  Photo courtesy American Red Cross Cascades Region.

OEM Oregon Rising Stronger Together Logo: The Oregon Office of Emergency Management Wildfire Recovery Logo.

The Hillsboro Police Department was dispatched to the Springhill Suites Hotel located at 7351 NE Butler St. on Tuesday, 3-2-21 at 1:19 am on the report of an assault with a weapon.  Responding officers discovered a person who had been shot and was deceased.  This case is an active investigation, and it is being investigated by the Hillsboro Police Department and the Washington County Major Crimes Team. 

At this time, we have no information to believe that the general public is in danger.

If you have any information involving this case, please contact Hillsboro Police Detective Pat LaMonica at 503-681-5357 regarding HPD case #21-3288.

(NEWBERG, OR) – The City of Newberg wants community members from both Newberg and Dundee to provide input on the qualities they believe should be exemplified by the next Police Chief of the Newberg-Dundee Police Department. A survey, which can be found at NewbergOregon.gov/PoliceChiefSurvey was released March 3 and closes March 23, 2021.

The survey is available in both English and Spanish and asks respondents to answer such questions as what attributes they are looking for, what experience should be brought to the role, and what traits are most important in a Police Chief. The survey kicks off the City’s recruitment process for a new Chief with the position opening for applications in March of 2021. Respondents should expect the survey to take 5 to 10 minutes to complete.

The City has contracted with The Novak Consulting Group to assist with the recruitment process. The full recruitment process and nation-wide search will help the City ensure it can find the best possible fit for the Newberg-Dundee community now and into the future. City Manager Dan Weinheimer commented on the recruitment stating, “Newberg and Dundee are fortunate to be served by a tremendous group of dedicated police officers, dispatchers and support staff. The next Chief will lead our team as we build on our successes. I think this process will shine a light on the good work of our staff and allow residents input into the department’s work in the future.”

The Newberg-Dundee Police Department oversees a dedicated department of Police Officers, 9-1-1 Dispatchers, and Support Staff. The City expects the next Police Chief to build on the successes of the department and support the community’s goals. With 35 sworn police officers the Newberg-Dundee Police Department serves over 27,000 residents and engages in a multitude of community outreach programs including Shop with a Cop, Citizens Police Academy, the Special Olympics, Mental Health Response, and more. Additionally, in 2021 Newberg-Dundee was named the “Safest City in Oregon” by Backgroundchecks.com.  

The City anticipates opening the position for applications in March, with the application period closing on April 25, 2021. A review of candidates will occur May 1 – 10 with interviews held throughout the month of May.

To learn more about the Newberg-Dundee Police Chief Recruitment process and to find periodic updates, visit NewbergOregon.gov/PoliceChiefRecruitment.

Survey Links:

Police Chief Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CityofNewbergORPoliceChiefSurvey
Encuesta del Jefe de Policía: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CiudaddeNewbergOREncuestadelJefedePolicia

To hear more news from the City of Newberg, follow along on Facebook, Twitter, or at the City Website: www.NewbergOregon.gov

March 3, 2021

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

Weekly COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, deaths rise

The Oregon Health Authority’s COVID-19 Weekly Report, released today, shows increases in daily cases, hospitalizations and deaths from the previous week.

OHA reported 2,652 new daily cases of COVID-19 during the week of Monday, Feb. 22 through Sunday, Feb. 28 — a 17% increase from the previous week.

New COVID-19 related hospitalizations also rose to 164, up from 159 the previous week.

Reported COVID-19 related deaths also increased to 57, up from 17 last week. That represents the lowest total since mid-November.

There were 120,678 tests for COVID-19 for the week of Feb. 21 through Feb. 27, a sharp increase from the previous week. The previous week’s total was most likely affected by the inclement winter weather event that took place throughout the region.

Roughly 117,000 tests were administered on a weekly basis earlier this year. The percentage of positive tests was 3.7%.

People 70 years of age and older have accounted for 40% of COVID-19 associated hospitalizations and 77% of COVID-19 associated deaths.

Today’s COVID-19 Weekly Outbreak Report shows 56 active COVID-19 outbreaks in senior living communities and congregate living settings, with three or more confirmed cases and one or more COVID-19 related deaths.

On Tuesday, 03/02/21, at 8:30pm, West Linn Police were contacted by a citizen over concerns they had about a West Linn Nextdoor post.  The caller stated the post referenced a possible abduction attempt, describing the subject as a white male with dark hair who was  driving a gold colored mini-van. 

On Wednesday, 03/03/21 at about 1:00pm, West Linn Police were contacted by a citizen that recognized the van from the Nextdoor photos.  Officers located the van and spoke to Michael SECOR who denied any knowledge of the incident on Tuesday.  A short time later, 48 year-old SECOR was taken into custody on a Clackamas County Parole violation warrant and lodged at the Clackamas County Jail.

The West Linn Police Department encourages citizens to contact us immediately, if they feel as though a crime or suspicious activity is occurring. 

(03.02.2021 - Lincoln County)

Spanish translation attached.

In preparation for the 2021 wildfire season, Lincoln County is requesting public feedback on the response to the September wildfire in the Otis area. Survey questions focus on response efforts, fire notification, communication, and future outreach.

The survey is separated into five groups, are multiple choice, are related to the actual response and considerations for future preparedness outreach events. The survey groups are:

1. Households/businesses within the fire perimeter
2. Households/businesses outside of the fire perimeter but received a fire evacuation notice (level 1, 2, 3)
3. All other community members (this will solicit feedback on interest in wildfire presentations, mitigation efforts, mindsets before and after our 2020 Echo Mountain Complex Fire)
4. Cooperators (public safety, local government, and other partners)
5. Media Partners 

The information we collect will assist us in improving our response and evacuation plans for future events. Anyone in Lincoln County is encouraged to take the survey. The survey is accessible on our website or at this direct link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3H67389

The survey will remain open until March 31st, 2021. If you need a printed copy or a version in Spanish, call 541-265-0616 or email is@co.lincoln.or.us">vdemaris@co.lincoln.or.us. Provide your name, contact number, mailing address, and email if you have one.

###

Respectfully submitted,

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

On Tuesday, March 2nd, 2021, members of the Tigard Police Department helped arrest a wanted fugitive from Montana.

Sevin Griego, 21, had been on the run from the FBI and the Lewis & Clark County Sheriff’s Office in Montana for several months, and was wanted for evading prosecution on charges of sexual abuse of children.

On Sunday night, February 28th, Tigard Police detectives learned Griego was in the Tigard area. By Tuesday afternoon, he was located along SW Ladd Hill Road in Clackamas County near Sherwood. Tigard Police detectives, officers, and a K-9 team responded to the area, along with Sherwood Police, deputies from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and a CCSO K-9 team.

In an attempt to escape, Griego ran through private property toward a duck pond where he was finally captured by CCSO K-9 Urban. Griego was taken to the Washington County Jail and will be extradited to Montana at a later date.

If convicted, Griego faces a potential penalty of 100 years in prison under Montana law. We’d like to thank our regional partners for their assistance in this high-profile arrest.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Community Services, with assistance from staff at Vancouver Housing Authority (VHA) and the city of Vancouver, selected Catholic Community Services of Western Washington to operate a non-congregate shelter near Vancouver Mall for people who are unhoused. Catholic Community Services is an outreach of the Catholic Church that provides programs, shelters and services for the poorest and most vulnerable people in Western Washington.

To solicit possible operators of the new shelter Clark County Community Services issued a Request for Applications (RFA), which was open to applicants until Feb. 5. A review committee comprising staff from the county, city and VHA provided recommendations for an operator in late February. Services are expected to begin by early June.

VHA acquired the site for use as a shelter in early February. Until recently it operated as a Howard Johnson franchise hotel. The housing authority, Clark County Community Services and the city of Vancouver are partnering and contributing funds toward the shelter, which will be called Bertha Cain Baugh Place.

It will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Being a non-congregate shelter means households will have their own room and restroom, a critical feature during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Referrals to the shelter will occur through the county’s Coordinated Entry System. In addition to providing basic shelter services, Catholic Community Services will also connect and engage residents with services and community supports that address their physical and mental wellness and help them secure stable housing.

“Emergency shelter plays an important role in the homeless crisis response system by breaking the cycle of homelessness,” said Vanessa Gaston, Clark County Community Services Director. “It can be a transformational component to a system that tries to meet people’s basic needs while quickly moving them towards long-term stability.”

Funding for shelter operations will come from a variety of state, federal and local sources.

Once funds to operate the shelter are expended, VHA plans to convert the facility into affordable rental housing for the community.

Catholic Community Services, VHA, Clark County Community Services, and the city of Vancouver will be holding additional information sessions for the neighborhood around the Shelter in April.

SALEM, Ore. – Five neighborhoods in and around Grants Pass joined the national Firewise program last year - the most of any single city in Oregon. The neighborhoods were among 182 communities across the state that conducted a variety of projects from cutting brush to thinning overcrowded stands of trees, to clearing brush away from evacuation routes and promoting education and outreach. This places Oregon in second place nationally for number of Firewise communities. The Oregon Department of Forestry manages the program in Oregon.

The new Firewise communities are:

• Ashland – Glenn Vista Estates and Mill Pond Homeowners Association
• Bend – Boonesborough POA, Mountain High, Touchmark at Mt. Bachelor Village and Wyndemere
• Canyon City – Canyon Creek Lane
• Central Point – Jackson Oaks Neighborhood Association
• Culver – Forest Park Estates – Grandview
• Glendale – Old Booth Lane - Harrel Lane
• Grants Pass – Birdseye Creek, Board Shanty, Hugo/Hidden Pine Drive and Woodson Drive
• Jacksonville – Timber Ridge Homeowners Association
• Mill City – Dogwood Road
• Oakridge – Greater Oakridge-Westfir
• Portland – Linnton
• Shady Cove – Deerfield Park 1 and 2
• Sisters - Indian Ford Meadows East and Trout Creek Village
• Springfield – Wallace Creek
• West Linn – Skyline Ridge Neighborhood

The Oregon Department of Forestry’s National Fire Plan Coordinator, Jenna Trentadue, who manages the Firewise program in Oregon said, “Staff in our local ODF offices partner with fire departments to work with communities across the state to organize projects or activities that reduce wildfire risk. Through this process, those communities become designated as Firewise.”

To achieve the designation, communities must have at least eight participating dwelling units and conduct at least one event or activity related to reducing fire risk. Firewise is a nationwide program of the National Fire Protection Association.

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On February 20, 2021, at approximately 6:15 am, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch received a call reporting an unconscious male on Cemetery Road near Government Hill Road in Siletz, Oregon.  Lincoln County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene and located Richard Allen Mann, 36, of Logsden, deceased. Evidence at the scene suggested foul play. The Lincoln County Major crime team was activated, and Mann’s death was determined to be caused by gunfire.

On February 23rd, investigators from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office, Oregon State Police, Lincoln City Police Department, and Newport Police Department executed search warrants on two residences in the 500 block of Tolowa Court in Siletz.  A vehicle and evidence were seized as a result of the search warrants.

From February 24th until March 2nd, investigators continued gathering evidence and interviewing parties with knowledge of the incident.  On the evening of March 2nd, two arrests were made for the shooting death of Richard Mann.  Gavin Whitehawk Epperson, age 27 of Siletz, was arrested and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail for Murder in the Second Degree, Conspiracy to Commit Murder in the Second Degree, Assault in the First Degree, and Conspiracy to Commit Assault in the Third Degree.  Donovan Eugene Carey-Bennett, age 23 of Siletz, was arrested and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail for Conspiracy to Commit Murder in the Second Degree, Assault in the Third Degree, and Conspiracy to Commit Assault in the Third Degree.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office was assisted in this investigation by the Oregon State Police Criminal Investigation Unit (CID), Oregon State Police Forensics, Toledo Police, Newport Police, Lincoln City Police and the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office.

Giving voice in a form as individual as a fingerprint, an Ethical Will in Jewish tradition, is a written document of values, thoughts, stories, or memories. The intention is to create an individual’s personalized legacy for family, friends and possibly those we may never meet. At this program, samples, including the Ethical Will of Neveh Shalom Rabbi Joshua Stampfer, z”l will be shared.

This Zoom workshop scheduled (from 2  – 3:30 p.m. PST, Wednesday, March 10 will be hosted by end-of-life doula Laurie Fendel of Congregation Neveh Shalom. Participants will receive a packet of “how to” resources for producing an Ethical Will. A $5 reservation is required. 

The Talmud and Torah contain many stories of Ethical Wills, a tradition that is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Because they are not legal documents, Ethical Wills, sometimes called Legacy Letters, may be created in a variety of forms, from videos, to notes on a grocery bag. Ethical wills can be read, heard and/or viewed while alive, or with instructions, become a memorial to your legacy.

Salem, OR- The Electronic Government Portal Advisory Board (EPAB) will meet at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, March 10, 2021. The meeting will take place remotely via the internet on Microsoft Teams and is open to the public.

This is a special EPAB meeting to address agenda items that are deemed time sensitive. The agenda and handouts will be posted on the advisory boards’ website: (https://www.oregon.gov/epab/Pages/Meeting-Documents.aspx)

What:        Meeting of the Electronic Government Portal Advisory Board 

When:       Wednesday March 10, 2021, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Where:      Microsoft Teams (Click here to join the meeting) Call Toll free: 1-503-446-4951 | Participant pin code: 45126-7837#

Who:         Members of the Electronic Government Portal Advisory Board 

The Legislature established the advisory board with enactment of ORS 276A.270-276. The board will advise the State Chief Information Officer (CIO) on key decisions and strategic choices about how the state CIO manages and operates the state’s web portal services.

The Oregon.gov portal is the connection point for citizens to access state agency services and information on the internet. The board provides oversight to specific websites, services and online payments where agencies choose to utilize the State Chief Information Officer’s E-Government Program as their service provider.

With the board’s advice, the state CIO wants to make the Oregon web portal services and their operation as effective as they can be for Oregonians to interact with state government. 

Salem, Oregon (March 3, 2021) - The Salem Police Foundation (SPF) held its tenth annual Breakfast with the Chief fundraiser on Wed. March 3, 2021, at 8:00 a.m. This year the program was virtual and will be rebroadcast at www.SalemPoliceFoundation.org/2021event at 7:00 pm.

Salem Health was the title sponsor, and the Foundation brought in over $70,000 in sponsorships even before the event began and raised thousands more from donors for the 45-minute broadcast.

During the virtual event, viewers could see the new police station and see items that the SPF has been able to purchase for officers, such as the TI Training Simulator. 

Chief Trevor Womack was able to introduce himself to the community during his eight-minute presentation. “Salem is such a vibrant city, filled with diversity of thought, culture, and interest...brimming with energy and activity just waiting with anticipation to finally shake off the binds of this terrible pandemic and spring back to life. I can’t wait to experience that along with all of you,” he said.

Chief Womack came to Salem from Stockton, California. He is a second-generation police officer with 29 years of service. He explained the importance of implementing both smarter and principled policing and making Salem a model for 21st Century Policing. During his online address, the Chief emphasized the reason for the event was to honor those men and women in the department who protect citizens each day. “They are just incredible people,” he said. “They are a symbol of all that is good about our city. Today is about taking care of those who take care of us.”

The theme of this year’s event was Officer Wellness. Viewers heard from officers and their families about the job’s weight and challenges. They also virtually met Chaplain Kenny Engelking, who revealed a surprise guest, Brigid, the Salem Police Department’s new comfort dog.

Over the last decade, generous citizens have helped the SPF purchase critical safety and crime investigatory tools such as the city’s Mobile Command Center, crime cameras, K-9 officer dogs, a fingerprint fuming chamber, an all-terrain utility vehicle, and a Forensics Fingerprint Recovery System.

The Foundation is still accepting donations toward its work.  www.SalemPoliceFoundation.org.  

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About the Salem Police Foundation: The Salem Police Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(C)3 dedicated to supporting the Salem Police Department. www.SalemPoliceFoundation.org.

Vancouver, Washington – Vancouver Parks and Recreation and the city’s Department of Public Works’ Urban Forestry program celebrated Black History Month with a tree planting at Bagley Community Park (46070 Plomondon St.) on Saturday, Feb. 27. Volunteers from Boys & Girls Clubs of SW Washington and the city’s Urban Youth program planted 24 trees, while following COVID-19 safety guidelines.

Volunteers worked in small groups to plant nine tree species at Bagley Community Park, including Oregon white oak, giant sequoia, incense cedar and black tupelo. Participants from Boys & Girls Clubs and the Urban Youth program were joined by Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle, Urban Forestry Commissioner Clif Barnes and Parks and Recreation Advisory Commissioner Matthew Kuntz.

The annual tree planting event began in 2006 and honors the legacy of many Black American leaders by encouraging civic engagement and cultivating community pride.

Saturday’s tree planting began with a land acknowledgement recognizing the Cowlitz and Chinook tribes, read by City of Vancouver Volunteer Coordinator Hailey Heath. The Boys & Girls Clubs of SW Washington were then awarded a plaque for their on-going service at Bagley Community Park through the Adopt-A-Park program. The opening ceremony ended with Vancouver Parks and Recreation Special Events Coordinator and Urban Youth leader Johnie Tucker sharing a brief history of George Washington Bush, a Black pioneer who was one of the earliest permanent settlers in the Washington Territory.  

In addition to aesthetic improvements, increasing the urban tree canopy helps offset carbon dioxide produced by cities and the root systems that trees develop are useful in stormwater management.

Find information about Vancouver Parks and Recreation at www.vanparksrec.org. Learn more about Vancouver’s Urban Forestry program at www.cityofvancouver.us/UrbanForestry. To sign up for a future volunteer project, visit www.cityofvancouver.us/Volunteer.

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SALEM, Ore. – Oregon continues to be at the forefront in local communities working to reduce their risk of wildfire through the national Firewise program. A total of 182 communities across the state took action last year to lower their risk in a variety of projects from cutting brush to thinning overcrowded stands of trees, to clearing brush away from evacuation routes and promoting education and outreach. This places Oregon in second place nationally for number of Firewise communities.

Almost two dozen of those places were new Firewise communities. They were:

• Ashland – Glenn Vista Estates and Mill Pond Homeowners Association
• Bend – Boonesborough POA, Mountain High, Touchmark at Mt. Bachelor Village and Wyndemere
• Canyon City – Canyon Creek Lane
• Central Point – Jackson Oaks Neighborhood Association
• Culver – Forest Park Estates – Grandview
• Glendale – Old Booth Lane - Harrel Lane
• Grants Pass – Birdseye Cr., Board Shanty, Hugo/Hidden Pine Drive and Woodson Drive
• Jacksonville – Timber Ridge Homeowners Association
• Mill City – Dogwood Road
• Oakridge – Greater Oakridge-Westfir
• Portland – Linnton
• Shady Cove – Deerfield Park 1 and 2
• Sisters - Indian Ford Meadows East and Trout Creek Village
• Springfield – Wallace Creek
• West Linn – Skyline Ridge Neighborhood

The Oregon Department of Forestry’s National Fire Plan Coordinator, Jenna Trentadue, who manages the Firewise program in Oregon said, “Staff in our local ODF offices partner with fire departments to work with communities across the state to organize projects or activities that reduce wildfire risk. Through this process, those communities become designated as Firewise.”

To achieve the designation, communities must have at least eight participating dwelling units and conduct at least one event or activity related to reducing fire risk. Firewise is a nationwide program of the National Fire Protection Association.

                                                                                                         # # #

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Chuck Sheron, a certified professional coach and educator, will explore “Strategies to Cultivate Positive Organizational Culture and Fuel Team Success” at the Business Growth MAP’s March online forum.

The event will take place over Zoom from 9 to 10 a.m. March 17. The forum is open to all at no cost, but advance registration is required. Register online at business.vancouver.wsu.edu/bgmap and click the link under “Upcoming events.”

Cultivating a positive organizational culture, where a team feels valued and has the tools needed to succeed, is crucial to business success. Sheron will explain five proven strategies to help build trust, improve culture and set the team up for success.

Sheron will draw on his experience as principal of King’s Way Middle School, where his strategies helped improve teacher effectiveness, enhance student success and grow enrollment. The school was voted “Best Middle School in the County” through the Columbian newspaper.

Sheron has worked in public and private education in Washington and Oregon for more than 25 years. He is currently a principal for Vancouver Public Schools and owner of Reimagine Success Coaching.

About Business Growth MAP Alliance

The Business Growth MAP Alliance brings together small businesses and entrepreneurs to learn from each other, industry experts and WSU Vancouver faculty. The Alliance is part of WSU Vancouver’s Business Growth Mentor and Analysis Program, which contributes to regional economic development by helping small businesses and nonprofits grow and succeed while providing educational opportunities for Carson College of Business students.

About WSU Vancouver

As one of six campuses of the WSU system, WSU Vancouver offers big-school resources in a small-school environment. The university provides affordable, high-quality baccalaureate- and graduate-level education to benefit the people and communities it serves. As the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington, WSU Vancouver helps drive economic growth through relationships with local businesses and industries, schools and nonprofit organizations. 

# # #

HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION #A21-452

At 1402 hours of February 27, 2021 Cowlitz 911 received information that a shooting had occurred at a residence in the 100 block of Porcupine Ln, near Castle Rock.  Deputies responded to the scene and located a deceased male subject inside the home.  The male was identified as Randall N. Smith, age 63. Smith had gunshot wounds to his chest and back.

Detectives interviewed Morrigan Clymer, who said she and her fiancé Duane Black, age 21, reside with Randall Smith at the Porcupine Ln home.  Clymer said she had been in an argument with Smith when Black instructed her to take their toddler into the bedroom and lock the door.  Clymer said she saw Black through her bedroom window, walking back to the house with a rifle.  Black reportedly stopped in front of the window and told Clymer, “I’m gonna get him.”  Clymer said she then heard four gunshots. 

Clymer said Black then came to the bedroom and instructed her to take their toddler and get in their vehicle.  She reported seeing Black place a rifle in the back seat of the vehicle.  Clymer then dropped Black off in Kelso. 

Duane Black was located at a friend’s residence in Kelso and was taken into custody.  Detectives interviewed Black and booked him into Cowlitz County Jail for Murder in the First Degree.

Troy Brightbill

Chief Criminal Deputy

Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office

UPDATE: The deceased driver in this crash has been identified as Modupe Adescola Megbolugbe, age 30 of Salem. 

Salem, Ore. — On February 26, 2021, at approximately 10:15 a.m. Salem Police and Fire personnel responded to Mission ST SE near the intersection of Hines ST SE on a report of a single vehicle crash. Units located the crashed Ford Focus in the westbound lanes of Mission ST SE.

The driver, who was the sole occupant, was declared deceased at the scene.

The preliminary investigation indicates the vehicle was travelling westbound on Mission ST SE when it struck the center median and collided with a tree sending the vehicle back onto the roadway. Distracted driving may have been a factor in the crash.

The driver’s identity will not be released until next of kin have been notified. Mission ST was closed for the investigation until 1:00 p.m..

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SEATTLE– DEA Acting Administrator D. Christopher Evans today announced the release of the 2020 National Drug Threat Assessment, DEA’s annual publication outlining the threats posed to the United States by domestic and international drug trafficking and the abuse of illicit drugs.

“This year’s report shows the harsh reality of the drug threats facing communities across the United States,” said Acting Administrator Evans. “While the COVID-19 pandemic plagues this nation, so, too, do transnational criminal organizations and violent street gangs, adjusting to pandemic restrictions to flood our communities with dangerous drugs. DEA and our local, state, and federal partners continue to adapt to the ever changing landscape, remaining focused on the current threats and looking to the horizon for emerging threats. We will always defend the American people against illicit substances that ruin lives, devastate families, and destroy communities.”

DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank Tarentino said, “The DEA Seattle Field Division, which includes the Pacific North West states of Idaho, Oregon, Washington and Alaska is primarily focused on the opioid threat, more specifically the illicit manufactured fentanyl that many drug trafficking and transnational criminal organizations are smuggling into our communities and selling to our citizens with dire consequences.” 

Drugs trends in the United States continue to evolve. While fentanyl and fentanyl analogues from China have decreased substantially following the DEA’s 2018 emergency scheduling action of fentanyl related substances and China’s enactment of fentanyl-class controls in May 2019, the opioid threat remains at epidemic levels, affecting large portions of the country. Meanwhile, the stimulant threat, including methamphetamine and cocaine, is worsening both in volume and reach, with traffickers selling increasing amounts outside of traditional markets.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 83,000 people lost their lives to drug-related overdoses in the twelve-month period ending in July of 2020, a significant increase from 2019, when more than 70,000 people died of overdoses.       

2020 NDTA findings of note:

·Mexican Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) remain the greatest criminal drug threat in the United States.

·Illicit fentanyl is one of the primary drugs fueling the epidemic of overdose deaths in the United States, while heroin and prescription opioids remain significant challenges to public health and law enforcement.

·Mexican cartels are increasingly responsible for producing and supplying fentanyl to the U.S. market. China remains a key source of supply for the precursor chemicals that Mexican cartels use to produce the large amounts of fentanyl they are smuggling into the United States.  

·Drug-poisoning deaths and seizures involving methamphetamine have risen sharply as Mexican TCOs increase the drug’s availability and expand the domestic market.

·Constraints associated with the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic – daily travel restrictions, U.S. border closings, closure of nonessential businesses, and broad shelter-in-place orders – temporarily posed new challenges to criminal organizations’ movement of drugs during the first half of 2020. 

The Pacific Northwest of the United States is under siege by the Mexican based Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG) cartel who is flooding the region with clandestine produced synthetic opioids in the form of prescriptions pills.  This transnational criminal organization (TCO) is taking advantage of the readily available and extremely dangerous, in fact lethal, synesthetic opioid; Fentanyl. These transnational criminal organizations, specifically CJNG are mixing illegally and clandestinely made fentanyl into most illicit narcotics, to include cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine and pills, resulting in a significant increase in non-fatal and fatal overdose deaths.  

The National Drug Threat Assessment provides a yearly assessment of the challenges communities face related to drug abuse and drug trafficking. Highlights in the report include usage and trafficking trends for drugs such as prescription drugs, heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, and hundreds of synthetic drugs. New to this year’s report is the effect of COVID-19 during the first part of 2020.

The assessment gathers information from many data sources such as drug investigations and seizures, drug purity, laboratory analysis, information on transnational and domestic criminal groups, and U.S. government drug cultivation and production estimates.

The National Drug Threat Assessment is available at www.dea.gov/documents/2021/03/02/2020-national-drug-threat-assessment.

March 2, 2021

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

Oregon reports 269 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 13 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 13 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 2,225, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 269 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 156,037.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 10,911 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 3,894 doses were administered on March 1 and 7,017 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on March 1.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

Oregon has now administered a cumulative total of 997,448 first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. To date, 1,244,505 doses of vaccine have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change. OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 149, which is 17 more than yesterday. There are 29 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is two more than yesterday.

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

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

First case of P.1 variant detected in Oregon

OHA was notified yesterday that a person in Oregon, identified as a Douglas County resident, has tested positive with the variant COVID-19 virus strain originally detected in Brazil.

This is the first identification in Oregon of the Brazil variant strain, also called strain P.1. The individual has known travel history prior to testing positive. The individual has worked closely with the local health department and has followed public health recommendations for self-isolating.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (2), Benton (3), Clackamas (20), Columbia (2), Coos (3), Crook (1), Deschutes (6), Douglas (20), Gilliam (1), Harney (2), Jackson (44), Jefferson (2), Josephine (20), Klamath (5), Lake (2), Lane (24), Lincoln (3), Linn (6), Marion (26), Morrow (1), Multnomah (28), Polk (4), Tillamook (3), Umatilla (11), Union (1), Washington (23) and Yamhill (6).  

Oregon’s 2,213th COVID-19 death is an 87-year-old woman in Baker County who tested positive on Feb. 24 and died on Feb. 26 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,214th COVID-19 death is an 88-year-old man in Baker County who tested positive on Feb. 24 and died on Feb. 26 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,215th COVID-19 death is a 100-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on Jan. 25 and died on Feb. 16 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,216th COVID-19 death is a 91-year-old woman in Douglas County who tested positive on Feb. 19 and died on Feb. 28 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,217th COVID-19 death is a 91-year-old woman in Deschutes County who tested positive on Jan. 23 and died on Feb. 16 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,218th COVID-19 death is a 27-year-old man in Jackson County who tested positive on Jan. 26 and died on Feb. 19 at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,219th COVID-19 death is a 90-year-old man in Lane County who tested positive on Feb. 19 and died on Feb. 28 at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,220th COVID-19 death is a 72-year-old woman in Linn County who tested positive on Jan. 12 and died on Feb. 26 at Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,221st COVID-19 death is an 83-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Jan. 6 and died on Feb. 14 at his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,222nd COVID-19 death is a 57-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Feb. 8 and died on Feb. 10 at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,223rd COVID-19 death is a 58-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Jan. 29 and died on Feb. 19 at Providence Portland Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,224th COVID-19 death is a 79-year-old man in Yamhill County who tested positive on Jan. 25 and died on Feb. 9 at his residence. He had no underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,225th COVID-19 death is a 78-year-old woman in Coos County who tested positive on Feb. 19 and died on Feb. 28 at Mercy Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations

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

(Tualatin, OR) – While Tualatin Library is closed to the public, we are using this opportunity to reimagine library spaces. We are building a makerspace: a collaborative, creative space where people can create physical objects and digital media.

When we reopen, Library visitors will be able to:

• Learn to model and 3D print their own creations;
• Attend a sticker-making workshop and plaster the world with ideas;
• Learn to solder and build a single-board computer; and
• Upcycle old jeans into something new.

Equipment available will include 3D printers, sewing machines, vinyl cutters, a CNC router, a computer with media creation software, robotic sets, and more! Maker programs will be offered for youth and adults, and drop-in access will also be available.

To create this space, we are remodeling a portion of the Library, adjacent to the Teen Room. At the end of the project, we will have a flexible-use, multipurpose room of 735 square feet. We estimate the work will be completed in late May 2021, but at this time we are unable to predict when the library and the makerspace will be open to the public.

To prepare for the remodeling project, a couple of our library collections are temporarily going into storage. Items from adult books on CD, young adult fiction, and young adult graphic novel collections will be unavailable during this time.

Tualatin Library is an active, vibrant space, and the makerspace furthers the mission of empowering and enriching the community through learning, discovery, and interaction.

Through this makerspace, Tualatin Library seeks to enhance the equity of technology access for our community’s youth, improving their education, and to support an interest in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). The project is funded through the City of Tualatin, with support from the Tualatin Library Foundation.

The impetus for building a makerspace in the Tualatin Library stemmed from a community revitalization plan generated when Tualatin participated in the nationwide America’s Best Communities competition. The makerspace is also one of several revitalization projects included in Tualatin’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

Community members are encouraged to contact the Library – at rarymail@tualatin.gov">librarymail@tualatin.gov – with ideas for maker projects and equipment they’d like to see in the space.

Tuesday, March 2, 2021 – Ridgefield, WA – The International Thespian Excellence Awards (or “Thespys” for short) recognize the highest level of achievement in school theatre performance and technical theatre.  The educational program, held virtually this year, gives student Thespians the opportunity to receive constructive feedback on prepared theatrical material and technical designs.  All students submitted videos of their performances for adjudication.

This year, RHS Thespians did exceptionally well.  Many received overall Excellent scores (silver medal status) and/or overall Superior scores (gold medal status).  They will be recognized at the Washington State Virtual Thespian Festival 2021 later this month.

Congratulations to the following students!

Avari Harrison, BriAnna Robbins, Cameron McGravey, Ella Ross, Peter Schafer, Sophia Miller and Summer Sedgley for overall Excellent scores in Solo Musical Theatre.

BriAnna Robbins and Summer Sedgley for overall Excellent scores in Monologue.

Two students received overall Superior scores (gold medal status), qualifying them for Nationals in June.  We congratulate Kaitlyn St. John (Solo Musical Theatre) and Peter Schafer (Monologue) for their outstanding work.

“I am amazed by the dedication of these Thespians and am immensely proud of them!” said Kaitlyn Etter, RHS Theatre Arts Director.  “They represented Ridgefield High School and our Thespian troupe incredibly well!”

Well done, RHS Thespians!  Go Spuds!

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The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will meet virtually to discuss the proposed Salmonberry Trail corridor 1 – 2:30 p.m. March 15. The public can view the proceedings via https://bit.ly/stiavideo.

On the agenda:

• STIA 2021 budget
• Salmonberry Trail Foundation budget
• STIA membership and strategic direction

The proposed Salmonberry Trail is an 86-mile corridor that follows the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway and terminates in Banks. The proposed route connects eight cities and two counties, passing by the Oregon coastline, fisheries, farmland and the Oregon Coast Range.  More information is at salmonberrytrail.org.

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

To submit public comment for board members to review during the meeting, send comments to dennis.wiley@oregon.gov at least three days prior to the meeting.

Media availability: Media will have the opportunity to visit the site 10-11 am on Friday by appointment only. Contact Marissa Armstrong at issa.armstrong@clark.wa.gov">marissa.armstrong@clark.wa.gov to schedule a visit.

Vancouver, Wash. – A new COVID-19 vaccination site is opening in the Tower Mall parking lot this week. The vaccination site will operate alongside the Tower Mall COVID-19 Community Testing Site, which opened in January. The vaccination site is a collaboration between Clark County Public Health, the city of Vancouver and Safeway.

Clark County Public Health is contacting people who have submitted a request for vaccine using the webform on the Public Health website to schedule appointments at Tower Mall. Public Health is using the contact information provided on the form – phone numbers or emails – to reach people on the waiting list. That outreach is beginning today.

The vaccination site will operate Friday, Saturday, Monday and Tuesday and offer drive-thru and walk-up options in the Tower Mall parking lot, 5403 E. Mill Plain Blvd, with vehicle entry off Blandford Drive. Each day, about 600 people will be vaccinated for a total of 2,400 vaccinations over the four days. Appointments are required. People who visit the site without an appointment will not be vaccinated.

About 20,000 people are awaiting referrals; not everyone on the waiting list will be able to get vaccinated at the Tower Mall site this week. Additional days may be added in the coming weeks if vaccine is available. Public Health will also continue to work with health care providers to refer people from the waiting list for vaccination, as vaccine supply allows.

Public Health is also working closely with community partners to offer appointments at the Tower Mall site to populations who are historically underserved and have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Equitable distribution and access to COVID-19 vaccine is a priority for Clark County Public Health.

“The Tower Mall site makes COVID-19 vaccine more easily accessible and provides an opportunity to serve members of our community who are often medically underserved,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County health officer and Public Health director. “We’re excited to see more opportunities for everyone in our community to get vaccinated.”

"Safeway is thrilled to be partnering with Clark County to make vaccine more accessible to its residents,” said Stephen Certo, Safeway Director of Pharmacy for Oregon and Southern Washington. “We hope to continue to be able to vaccinate the members of Clark County throughout the upcoming phases."

COVID-19 vaccine is provided by Safeway through the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program. Safeway pharmacists will administer Pfizer vaccine, with support from Clark County Public Health. No vaccines will be stored on site outside of normal operating hours. The city of Vancouver is providing non-medical staff to assist with site operations.

Everyone vaccinated at the site will automatically be scheduled for their second dose at the site three weeks later.

The Tower Mall vaccination site is the latest effort of the Southwest Washington Regional Public Health Incident Management Team – a collaboration between Clark, Cowlitz and Skamania counties. The three counties have been working together, and with community partners, since January to develop plans for mobile and fixed-location vaccination sites throughout the region.

The Tower Mall COVID-19 vaccination efforts will not impact COVID-19 testing at the site. The community COVID-19 testing site will continue to operate 9 am to 3:30 pm Tuesday through Saturday. For more information about free testing at the site, visit www.ClarkCountyCOVIDtesting.org.

Everyone, even those who have been vaccinated, should continue to take steps to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community. That includes wearing face coverings, maintaining physical distancing and avoiding gatherings. These steps are critical to keeping our community healthy until more people can be vaccinated.

For more information about local COVID-19 vaccination efforts and to submit a request for COVID-19 vaccine, visit the Clark County Public Health COVID-19 vaccine webpage or call 888.225.4625. The Public Health call center operates 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has been awarded a $6.3 million grant by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for a disaster case management program.

This disaster case management program provides funding and technical assistance to ensure holistic services to each impacted Oregonian. The program will offer a single point of contact to coordinate a variety of services to assist in addressing the unmet disaster-related needs of September 2020 wildfire survivors.

Disaster case managers work with survivors to identify their unique needs and help coordinate services with federal, state and local programs, including services provided through voluntary and charitable organizations and long-term recovery groups in local communities.

“Thousands of Oregonians’ lives remain disrupted from the devastating wildfires of September 2020. Case managers are essential to identify barriers faced by individuals. They can help connect survivors with services and resources to support them on the path to full recovery,” said ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht.

“In our work with survivors and local agencies, it is clear those survivors have struggled to find resources and information about available supports, including shelter, housing resources, food, and other basic necessities,” said Ed Flick, director of the ODHS emergency management unit.

“These services are unique to each individual,” Flick said. “Based on what we’ve seen with current survivors and from disasters in other states, disaster case managers can help people with document recovery and navigating the eligibility and appeals process for FEMA programs; finding interim and permanent housing along with household supplies and furniture; and accessing counseling and job search support.”

Disaster case management will be open to all Oregon residents impacted by the wildfire disaster, regardless of whether they are registered with FEMA.

ODHS is seeking a not-for-profit provider to carry out the disaster case management program. A request for proposal will be published in March with selection of a vendor soon thereafter.

About ODHS’s role: Oregon’s emergency and recovery plans give ODHS responsibility to support impacted Oregonians during emergencies and recovery, in keeping with the agency’s primary role to assist people in meeting their basic needs while moving toward independence. ODHS is responsible for supporting the sheltering, feeding, emergency assistance, and human services needs of people impacted by disasters. In this role, ODHS coordinates efforts among local and Tribal governments, and nongovernmental organizations.

The Oregon Recreational Trails Advisory Council (ORTAC) will meet 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. March 12 via web conference. The meeting includes a discussion of plans to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Oregon Recreation Trails System Act.

The meeting is open to the public and will include opportunity for public comment. The agenda and link for the meeting is posted on the ORTAC website at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/BWT/Documents/ORTAC-agenda-March-2021.pdf.

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

The council is made up of seven volunteer members representing the five congressional districts and two coastal representatives. Members are appointed by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission. For more information about ORTAC, visit https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/BWT/Pages/BWT-ortac.aspx

For more information, contact Program Coordinator Jodi Bellefeuille at 503-856-6316 or ellefeuille@oregon.gov">jodi.bellefeuille@oregon.gov.

WHO:              David Gerstenfeld, Acting Director, Oregon Employment Department

WHEN:            Wednesday, March 3, 2021, at 1 p.m. PT

WHAT:            Oregon Employment Department Acting Director David Gerstenfeld will hold a video conference media briefing to share updates on the federal Continued Assistance Act (CAA) that extends and provides additional federal unemployment benefits, new PUA eligibility, economic and workforce-related trends and more on Wednesday, March 3 at 1 p.m. PT.

WHERE:         Via Zoom video conference: Members of the media must RSVP for call information by emailing OED_Communications@oregon.gov by 12 p.m. PT on March 3. Video conference information will be provided to all reporters who RSVP.

OTHER:          The Oregon Employment Department is updating a claims processing progress data dashboard daily. Visit this link for weekday updates. A recording of the video conference will be emailed to reporters attending the briefing after the briefing concludes.

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Equal Opportunity program — auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Contact: (503) 947-1794. For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, call 711 Telecommunications Relay Services.

PORTLAND, Ore. - Journey more than 250 million years back in time at Dinosaurs Revealed, the latest world-class exhibit to open March 20 at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI). Making its Pacific Northwest premiere, the exhibit blends stunning, lifelike and life-size animatronic dinosaurs (26 in all) with real fossils and full dinosaur skeletons.

Guests are invited to embark on an epic adventure of prehistoric discovery by learning about dinosaurs from world-famous geologic dig sites across what is now North America. They’ll travel through successive periods in Earth’s history, learning about the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous Periods in detail. 

“Even as science refines what we know about dinosaurs, there is so much more yet to discover, which is what makes this such a terrific exhibit. The immersive experience of Dinosaurs Revealed has something for everyone, including school groups, history buffs, armchair explorers, and outdoor enthusiasts,” said Erin Graham, OMSI president and CEO. “As we think about raising awareness of crucial scientific topics, I appreciate how well this exhibit tells the story of climate change in a tangible, accessible way. It’s fascinating to see how changes in the Earth’s climate over the millennia directly impacted plants, animals, and dinosaurs.” 

Examining North America through the various geologic epochs, the exhibit explores how Earth’s geography, environment, and the climate changed through those periods. Guests will learn how and why dinosaurs—as well as other animals and plants—adapted, changed, and evolved as a result of the world in which they lived. 

Dinosaurs Revealed is unique in that it highlights dinosaurs found in what is now North America and draws connections between the land shown in the exhibit and modern dig sites. Visitors will be able to see current dig sites that are studying fossils across North America, and the work it takes to reveal and recover fossilized remains.

The exhibit provides thought-provoking, new insights regarding the latest dinosaur discoveries—how they moved, what they actually looked like and the sounds they made—and how these amazing, prehistoric creatures ruled our planet for approximately 150 million years. 

Dinosaurs Revealed opens at OMSI on March 20 and will be on view through Sept 6. Guests can purchase tickets online at omsi.edu, via phone at 503.797.4000, or in person at the museum. Exhibit admissions are currently limited to 25% of regular capacity with staggered entry times, which is why it is strongly recommended that visitors purchase tickets online prior to their visit.

The touring exhibition, ‘Dinosaurs Revealed,’ was produced by Union Station Kansas City and is toured internationally by Flying Fish.

Tickets & Pricing
Member Price: Free for OMSI Members
General Admission: Adult: $12, Youth (ages 3-13) $10, Senior (age 63+) $8

Museum Hours of Operation
Tuesday–Sunday: 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Monday: Closed, with the exception of Portland Public School holidays 
Summer Hours (starts June 12)
Sunday - Saturday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
 
About OMSI
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation’s leading science museums, a world-class tourist attraction, and an award-winning educational resource for the kid in each of us. OMSI operates the largest museum-based outdoor science education program in the country and provides traveling and community outreach programs that bring science learning opportunities to schools and community organizations in every county in Oregon and throughout the region. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit omsi.edu.

Vancouver, WA – Share has welcomed a change in staff leadership with the retirement of Dee Sanders, the promotions of Katie Louis and Nicky Ferguson and the hiring of Marques Giles.

Dee Sanders officially retired as director of the Affordable Housing and Stability program on Feb. 26.

“Dee has been a compassionate and stalwart advocate for access to affordable housing for the past 18 years, building relationships – and friendships – with numerous people across social service and government agencies. With her experience and natural leadership, I always knew she would excel in her job, where she opened the doors of homes to thousands of families and individuals right here in Clark County. It wasn’t just her ability to rise to the challenge of the daily tasks of the job, but the heart and compassion she brought each and every day,” said Diane McWithey, executive director.

Sanders was hired at Share in 2003 as a part-time shelter staff member. She was promoted in 2004 to a full-time case manager with the ASPIRE program (now called the Affordable Housing and Stability program) and again in 2006 to the program director, where she served until her retirement in February 2021.

Under Dee’s leadership, what is now called Share’s Affordable Housing & Stability program experienced more than a decade of tremendous and continuous growth: from three staff members to 10, from serving 30 households each month to 400+ households each month, from a budget of $862,800 to $6.9 million in 2020 (more than half of which were funds for COVID eviction prevention). The program is a coordinated system for providing case management, housing and connection to a vast resource education for employment training, family counseling, debt reduction, budgeting, drug/alcohol abuse, domestic violence, counseling, mental health, education, parenting, life skills, childcare referral and transportation.

Last August, when the federally funded Emergency Rent Assistance Program (ERAP) was launched, Share stepped up to help local households with the application process for rent assistance for up to three months of past, present or future rent. Sanders and her staff oversaw this challenge, quickly hiring, training and supporting additional qualified and competent staff, and distributing $3.25 million dollars in just four months. Those funds helped 853 households to stay in their homes -- single mothers and fathers with children, senior citizens, veterans, multi-generational families, and more.

Katie Louis was promoted to replace Sanders as the director of the Affordable Housing and Stability program.  Louis has worked at Share for the past seven years, beginning as a part-time case manager at Share Homestead, then promoted twice, first to assistant supervising director of Family Shelters, and then to director of Share House (now called director of Collaborative Housing program), a position she held for the past five years, where she oversaw the daily operations of Share House, in addition to supervising the Hot Meals program, as well as both the family and single men shelters through the Winter Hospitality Overflow program.

Marques Giles was hired to replace Louis as the director of the Collaborative Housing program. Giles recently moved back to the Portland area from Arizona, where he managed a 400-bed shelter. Previous employment also included Morrison Child and Family Services, Black Culture Competency Access, Human Solutions in Portland and MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility.

Nicky Ferguson was promoted as the director of Family Pathways program where she will oversee the daily operations of Share Homestead and Share Orchards Inn, both of which are shelters for families and single women. Ferguson was promoted from her role as Lead Engagement Specialist for Share’s family shelters, a position she held since 2020.

About Share

Founded in 1979, Share’s mission is: Share believes every person counts. Together we pursue a stronger community by building relationships, advocating for equitable access to housing and food stability while empowering every individual to grow and thrive.

Share operates four shelters for those experiencing homelessness, an Affordable Housing and Stability program, Lincoln Place (a 30-unit Housing First model apartment complex), a street outreach program, a Housing & Essential Needs (HEN) program, Rent Well (a tenant education program), and Hot Meals, a daily meal program (breakfast, lunch and dinner) which is free and open to the community. Share also operates a Summer Meals program that provides free meals to children 18 and under, and a Backpack program in partnership with 94 locals schools to provide weekly food bags to 650+ children and their families, as well as to distribute 500 weekly pantry boxes and operate 12 fresh food pantries. For more information, visit sharevancouver.org or facebook.com/ShareVancouver.

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Portland, OR — The Oregon Historical Society (OHS) is excited to announce the reopening of its museum and museum store this Saturday, March 6. Until further notice, public museum and store hours will be Saturdays and Sundays from 12pm – 5pm. The museum will also have special hours during the week of Oregon’s spring break, opening from Tuesday, March 23 through Sunday, March 28, from 12pm – 5pm.

The OHS Research Library remains closed for renovations that began in January 2020. More information on library services that are available during the renovation can be found at ohs.org/libraryreno.

Following the guidance and requirements of the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) for indoor entertainment establishments, the Oregon Historical Society has implemented important safety protocols for the health of our staff and visitors. Current protocols are detailed at the bottom of this press release as well as at ohs.org/reopening.

Current Exhibitions:

Nevertheless, They Persisted: Women’s Voting Rights and the 19th Amendment
On exhibit through December 5, 2021

Discover the many ways that Oregon history connects to the national history of woman suffrage and to the complex history of democracy in the United States in the original exhibition, Nevertheless, They Persisted. The exhibit focuses on the work necessary to win the 1920 ratification of the 19th Amendment (granting women the vote) as well as invites visitors to consider how and why political leaders have denied women the vote; how women have fought for equal rights; and how teamwork and fights across race, class, and organizing tactics have shaped this history. Through storytelling and original artifacts and documents, visitors will connect to the past and feel the struggles and triumphs of the women and men who demanded the vote and used their rights to shape our nation and our world.

We are the Rose City! A History of Soccer in Portland
On exhibit through September 26, 2021

Attend a soccer game at Providence Park and you may hear people chanting, “We are the Rose City, the mighty PTFC!” Thousands of supporters flock to the park on match days to watch the Portland Timbers and the Portland Thorns take to the pitch, competing in a sport that is beloved by many in the Pacific Northwest. From the athletes, to the fans, to the many events that have shaped “Soccer City,” We are the Rose City! explores the history of professional soccer in Portland and the cultural context of the game.

Experience Oregon
Permanent Exhibit

Visitors of all ages, and from all parts of the world, come to the Oregon Historical Society each year to learn about Oregon. Whether you were born here, have chosen to make this place home, or are just passing through, it is undeniable that there is something special about this state. From its varied geography to its innovative legislation, Oregon is complex and distinctive, filled with people whose stories are the foundation of the state we see today. A dynamic educational space, Experience Oregon allows visitors to learn about the countless people, places, and events that have shaped this place.

The Oregon Historical Society is excited to reopen its museum to share these exhibitions with visitors, while continuing its efforts to provide programs and content virtually for those who are not able to visit in person. For a full schedule of upcoming virtual programs, visit ohs.org/events. For other ways to discover Oregon history online, visit the OHS blog Dear Oregon for weekly blog posts; explore over 33,000 photographs, manuscripts, and clips of archival footage on OHS Digital Collections; and learn about Oregon history from A to Z on The Oregon Encyclopedia!

Current Health and Safety Protocols

The Oregon Historical Society thanks visitors in advance for adhering to the following guidelines in an effort to keep staff and visitors as safe as possible: 

Wear A Face Covering: Pursuant to the statewide reopening guidance on masks, face coverings, and face shields, all visitors age five and older are required to wear a face covering at all times during their visit. 

Maintain Distance: Signage throughout the museum will remind visitors to keep six feet of distance between themselves and visitors outside of their party.

Modified Exhibit Access: For visitor safety, only a limited number of interactive elements in the Experience Oregon and Oregon Voices exhibits that visitors can operate using a stylus pen will be available. OHS’s History Hub exhibit is closed until further notice due to the hands-on nature of this exhibition. 

Other Safety Precautions Include:

• Additional hand sanitizing stations installed at the museum’s entrance and throughout the building
• Plexiglass sneeze guards installed at point of sale stations
• Designated one-way paths to maintain required distancing as visitors enter, exit, and enjoy the exhibitions
• Limited contact transactions; at this time, OHS discourages cash/check transactions
• At this time, building capacity is limited to a maximum of 50 people (includes staff and visitors) in the museum at one time
• Museum Store capacity is limited to four shoppers at one time

Museum and museum store hours are subject to change; OHS recommends visiting ohs.org/reopening before visiting or calling 503.222.1741. Please note that while OHS’s visitor services staff are not on site during weekdays they are checking voicemails and returning calls remotely.

About the Oregon Historical Society

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

City Council greeted the newest member of the Battle Ground Police Department at their March 1st Study Session.  Police Chief Mike Fort introduced K9 Charlie, along with his partner and handler, Officer Clint Fraser. 

At only 18 months old, Charlie is the youngest member of the department, but he has a real nose for police work.  Charlie and Officer Fraser recently completed 16 weeks of training and, as a team, earned state certification for both patrol and narcotics detection work. 

Charlie is a German Shepherd, born in the Czech Republic.  He spent his younger months in Alabama before coming to Battle Ground for a career in police work.

“Charlie is a great dog and we love training and working together”, said handler and partner Clint Fraser, “He is even-keeled, knows when it’s time to go to work, and gets the job done.

 “And”, added Officer Fraser, “he’s very social and a bit of a goof-ball”.

Clint Fraser has served with the Battle Ground Police Department for 15 years.  Dogs have always been part of his life and one of his professional goals was to serve with a K9 partner.  He appreciates the value Charlie brings to patrol work, to the department, and to the community. 

The dog’s primary job is to search and find.  He assists officers by searching for and locating evidence and suspects with his superior sense of smell.  When not on patrol, K9 teams love to engage with the community at events and in schools.  Charlie and Officer Fraser look forward to maintaining that tradition as health protocols allow. 

Battle Ground’s K9 program was paused after the retirement of K9 Luca in November of 2019.  In keeping its promise to the community, City Council adopted a 2021 budget with additional police department funding to maintain and support programs and services, including the K9 program.  Support of the program also came from Vancouver Police Department Master K9 handlers who graciously provided training for Battle Ground’s team at no cost.       

“I am so happy to introduce our new K9 Team” said Chief Fort, “We heard how much the community values the program for its police work and for the opportunities to engage with the community.”

Since training and certification, Charlie and Officer Fraser are actively working on patrol.  You may seem them in the K9 vehicle in your neighborhood - be sure to wave and welcome Charlie to Battle Ground!  

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Equity and Inclusion Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 4, 2021. 
In response to the current health emergency, agency facilities are closed and the meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/92623636985?pwd=V1d3UGJJRmx1TzI2b3ZXSFlKd202dz09 
 Meeting ID: 926 2363 6985 
Passcode: 396549

(Salem) – Oregon OSHA is proposing to extend protective measures against COVID-19 for workers who rely on housing provided by employers, including as part of farming operations. The risk-reducing measures – which include new options and updates – cover everything from physical distancing and ventilation to face coverings and sanitation.

The proposed permanent rule will receive three virtual public hearings later this month and a comment period through April 16. Oregon OSHA expects to repeal the rule once it is no longer needed to address the coronavirus pandemic in the context of labor housing.

“While there is good news on the horizon, the public health challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic remain a significant concern in Oregon. In the labor housing environment, addressing an airborne disease poses unique challenges,” said Michael Wood, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “We believe this proposed rule addresses those challenges by protecting vulnerable workers – especially those who spend both their work and off-work hours at the employer’s location. But it also strikes a balance based on the current economic realities.”

The proposed rule would replace the current labor-housing requirements established through Gov. Kate Brown’s executive order, issued in October 2020. That order lasts through April 30, 2021. It effectively maintained COVID-19 safety measures that Oregon OSHA adopted on a temporary basis in April 2020, which otherwise expired Oct. 24, 2020.

While largely similar to the previous requirements, the proposed rule includes new options and updates. The changes reflect experiences under the previous safety measures. They also speak to the evolving nature of COVID-19 risks.

The proposed requirements include:

Ventilation

• Ensuring that existing ventilation systems are optimized according to the requirements of Oregon OSHA’s current temporary rule addressing COVID-19 in all workplaces. The purchase or installation of new ventilation systems is not required. 
• Increasing air circulation and ventilation by opening windows and doors in labor housing when doing so is safe for occupants.

Masks, face coverings, and face shields

• Ensuring all people entering the housing – including all common areas – follow the Oregon Health Authority’s statewide guidance regarding masks, face coverings, and face shields. Exceptions include when people are eating or drinking; sleeping in their bed or cot; staying in housing occupied solely by members of the same family or household; and children younger than 5 years old.
• Ensuring all occupants of labor housing have access to adequate face coverings – and enough face coverings to enable employees to “double mask” – at no cost to the occupants.

Physical distancing

• Designing housing operations to allow six feet of physical distancing whenever possible.
• Appointing one or more distancing monitors to ensure safety measures are carried out.
• Allowing bunkbeds only for members of the same pre-existing household and relaxing certain density and distancing requirements if the only affected occupants are part of the same household. Previous requirements included similar provisions, but they were based on whether the people were related.
• Providing two options for sleeping areas. One allows somewhat greater density than previous requirements, while the other requires still lower density – depending on whether employers choose to use air purifiers.

Cleaning and sanitation

• Cleaning or sanitizing regularly all common areas, shared equipment, and high-touch surfaces.
• Reducing the frequency of cleanings of common-use areas (such as chemical or plumbed toilets) from two or three times daily – required under previous measures – to once daily.
• Ensuring cleaning materials are provided at no cost to occupants to use in their individual living areas.
• Returning to the requirement to provide one toilet for every 15 occupants. Previous measures mandated one toilet for every 10 occupants.

Similar to previous requirements, the proposed rule also spells out steps to take when there are suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases.

The rule’s development included input from advisory committees. Also, the division received comments on a petition that was filed in response to the temporary requirements extended by the governor’s executive order.

Oregon OSHA encourages a careful reading of the proposed rule regarding COVID-19 and labor housing. Virtual public hearings will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, March 25; 10 a.m. Friday, March 26; and 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 30. Details on how to sign up for the hearings – as well as other options for commenting on the proposed rule – are now available. The comment period will close Friday, April 16.

Meanwhile, the division continues to take public comments on its proposed permanent rule extending protections against COVID-19 in all workplaces. Learn more about the division’s workplace guidance and resources related to COVID-19: https://osha.oregon.gov/Pages/re/covid-19.aspx

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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/.  

OnPoint's Refer a Friend campaign has raised a total of $183,700 for five organizations over the last three years

PORTLAND, Ore., March 2, 2021—As the Oregon Humane Society (OHS) works to save lives and continue to help animals and pet owners in need, OnPoint Community Credit Union announced today the launch of its Refer a Friend campaign benefitting the local non-profit animal welfare organization. OnPoint's new Refer a Friend campaign began on Monday, March 1, 2021, and concludes on April 30, 2021. The campaign is OnPoint's sixth Refer a Friend effort, which donates $50 to local non-profits for every friend, family or business associate who joins OnPoint within a specified period. Referring and new members also both receive $50 from OnPoint.

"Oregon Humane Society's mission of creating a more humane society is especially meaningful now," said Rob Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. "Through all the challenges of the pandemic and devastating wildfires, OHS has served animals and pet owners in extraordinary ways. OnPoint is proud to continue working alongside OHS to create a society where all animals are treated with compassion, kindness and respect."

As the largest animal welfare organization in the Northwest, more animals are adopted from OHS than from any other single-facility shelter on the West Coast. OHS puts no time limits on how long animals can remain at the shelter. A pet stays available for adoption as long as needed to find a loving home. If a pet in the care of OHS needs medical attention, the OHS veterinary hospital provides the pet with the same level of care an owner would. OHS also has training and behavior experts who work with animals who have suffered emotional trauma and need specialized care.

OHS has had a busy year as it transformed its operations at the onset of the pandemic to safely meet the needs of shelter animals and the public. Its new virtual adoption process allows staff to work one-on-one with potential adopters to ensure the right fit while keeping everyone safe. Although the new approach is more time and labor-intensive, it's also been very successful, with more than 7,000 pets finding loving homes in 2020. Click here to learn more about OHS's experience through the pandemic.

"With many people working from home and practicing physical distancing, interest in adoptions has been very high," said Sarah Yusavitz, Corporate Relations Officer, Oregon Humane Society. "Pets have provided a sense of comfort and calm as we've dealt with the stress of the pandemic." 

OHS has also responded to the needs of the community in a variety of ways during the past year. During the wildfires in September, OHS deployed responders to deliver supplies and set up kennels at evacuation sites. OHS also provided emergency boarding to evacuees and took in stray cats from the fire zone in Clackamas County. In response to the economic hardship brought on by COVID-19, OHS has hosted free pet-food banks and delivered supplies to animal shelters and food pantries around the state. OHS's Second Chance program continued to be a lifeline for shelters around the country that face overcrowding. In addition, pets have been transferred to OHS from local animal services agencies and shelters as far away as Texas and Hawaii. 

"The support of OnPoint and its members will help us save more lives by making us more agile and able to say 'yes' to more shelter animals across the nation when natural disasters and other crises occur," said Yusavitz. "We can't thank the OnPoint community enough, and we look forward to seeing the results of Refer a Friend this Spring."

For OnPoint members who are interested in supporting OHS through the Refer a Friend campaign, click here.  To learn more about OHS's lifesaving mission and the many other ways you can be more humane, visit https://www.oregonhumane.org/.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving more than 420,000 members and with assets of $7.9 billion. OnPoint membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at http://www.onpointcu.com or 800-527-3932.

ABOUT OREGON HUMANE SOCIETY

Oregon Humane Society is the Northwest's oldest and largest animal welfare organization, with one of the highest adoption rates in the nation. OHS receives no government funds for its adoption, education and animal cruelty investigation programs. Visit oregonhumane.org for more information.

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Please see attached press release regarding a COVID-19 vaccine update.

Welcome to the Oregon FBI’s Tech Tuesday segment. Today: Building a digital defense against fake Good Samaritans. 

Thanks to COVID, many families are having trouble keeping food on the table and paying their bills. Of course, this means that scam artists will try to take advantage of what is already a desperate situation. 

The Oregon FBI is getting reports that people are seeing – and responding to – offers of assistance on social media platforms and elsewhere. The Good Samaritan is offering to send a few hundred – or even a few thousand dollars – in your time of need. 

In one version of the scam, the fraudster sends you a cashier’s check. The supposed benefactor may ask you to forward some of the money on to a third person (which is usually back to him) or he may tell you that he accidentally sent you too much and ask you to return some of it. 

In another version of the scam, he sends you funds by Zelle or some other cash app. He manages to gain access to your bank account and transfers money to himself instead of to you. 

Here’s how to protect yourself: 

• Look for established, reputable charities to help you and your family. 

• Be suspicious of people or groups offering help through social media. Do research to ensure the person or group is legitimate before accepting any funds. 

• If you are unsure whether a check is real, check with your bank before depositing. 

• Don’t forward money to a third party. The scammer may be using you to launder funds or act as a money mule – both of which can get you in trouble legally. 

If you believe are a victim of an online scam, you should report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Center at www.ic3.gov or call your FBI local office.

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PORTLAND, Ore. - The devastating winter storms our region just experienced, and this past summer’s wildfires, serve as a painful reminder that disasters can happen to anyone, anywhere, anytime – even during a pandemic.  

So, in honor of March being Red Cross Month, the Red Cross Cascades Region is hosting a series of free emergency preparedness presentations throughout the month. All presentations are virtual, and everyone is welcome to attend. Red Cross volunteers are available for virtual media interviews today.

How to prepare for emergencies:  

Starting today and taking place every Tuesday in March from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m., classes will cover the most common disasters we face in the Pacific Northwest and how to prepare for them. Whether you’re motivated to start building your preparedness kit, or need a refresher course, these classes are designed to help families and individuals learn how to be better prepared. Information and links can be found at redcross.org/cascades.  

• March 2nd: Winter Storm Safety 
• March 9th: Wildfire Safety 
• March 16th: Earthquake Safety 
• March 23rd: Flooding Safety 
• March 30th: Home Fire Safety 

We recognize that preparing for emergencies looks a little different right now, but the three basic action steps remain the same: Build a Kit, Make a Plan and Be Informed. In addition to the preparedness series, the Red Cross Cascades Region has a free downloadable Prepare! Guide available in four languages, English, Spanish, Vietnamese and Russian. Red Cross B-roll is available here.

WHAT IS RED CROSS MONTH For nearly 80 years, U.S. presidents have proclaimed March as Red Cross Month to recognize people giving back through its lifesaving mission — which is powered by more than 90% volunteers. 

They include people who volunteer to provide emotional support, psychological first aid and referrals to community assistance for families coping with disasters during the pandemic. 

HOW TO HELP You can help ensure that families don’t face emergencies alone — especially during a pandemic: 

• DONATE: Support our Disaster Relief efforts at redcross.org/GivingDay. A gift of any size makes a difference to provide shelter, food, relief items, emotional support and other assistance. Your donation will be part of our annual Giving Day on March 24 to aid families in need across the country. 
• VOLUNTEER: Visit redcross.org/VolunteerToday for most-needed positions and local opportunities. 
• GIVE BLOOD: If you’re healthy and feeling well, make an appointment at RedCrossBlood.org. Your donation can make a lifesaving difference for a patient in need. As a thank you, those who come to give blood, platelets or plasma on March 15-26 will receive a Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. 
• LEARN LIFESAVING SKILLS: Take a class in skills like CPR and first aid to help in an emergency at redcross.org/TakeAClass. Online options include our Psychological First Aid for COVID-19 course, which covers how to manage stress and support yourself and others. 

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/cascades or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossCasc. 

# # # 

Monday, March 1, 2021 – Ridgefield, WA – Zoom meetings are commonplace now, and older kids usually adjust quickly to doing classes online.  But making online school accessible for younger students can be a challenge.  Shandel Oderman is one of many teachers at Union Ridge Elementary making remote learning more fun for students. 

Oderman’s Zoom classroom is bright and engaging, with large tissue paper flowers and colorful posters.  The “WOW Wall” is covered in student work, and a Student of the Week celebration banner hangs nearby.  But instead of a school classroom, Oderman teaches from her home office.  All of the room decorations make online learning feel like any other first grade classroom, full of fun and excitement.  School is still happening, just in a different place. 

Oderman tries to make virtual learning as enjoyable as possible for the first graders.  Each lesson has opportunities for her students to interact with each other and with the things around them.  For one lesson, they became “volume detectives”:  finding and photographing things in their homes that could change volume from soft to loud.  And their “Teacher vs. Students” game gets groups of students talking about discussion prompts, then sharing their ideas with Oderman.  If the students win the contest, they get a prize.  “They always beat me!” she laughs.

While most of their class time is spent on Zoom, the students do get to see their teacher in person from time to time.  Oderman hands out learning packets with weekly drive-through pickups or porch deliveries.  Even behind a mask, you can feel her broad smile when she sees her students.  The kids are always excited to see what is in their learning packets:  worksheets, science kits, books from Oderman’s personal library, or even special treats (like their “Teacher vs. Students” prizes). 

One of the weekly learning kits included cotton balls in Ziploc bags.  What could they be used for?  The kids had to wait for class time to solve the mystery.  The cotton balls were scented with essential oils and became part of a lesson on the sense of smell.  “The kids could try smelling them and responding about their olfactory memories,” Oderman explained.

Other first grade teachers, including Jennifer Ingham, Danielle McTighe, and Fredia Thompson, partner with Oderman to create engaging lesson plans and activities for remote learning, allowing their classes to work together on all kinds of projects.  The teachers created a pumpkin growing contest and pitted the classrooms against each other in a friendly battle.  And the four classes also enjoy video “debates”, where students take a side on an issue, create a video with their opinion, then watch and respond to other students’ videos.  “It has been great to work as a team,” Oderman said.  “I couldn’t do it without them!”

Besides their regular subjects, the first graders still get to enjoy class events, like Zoom pajama parties.  Even a snow day wasn’t enough to stop Oderman’s students from holding their Virtual Valentine’s Day party.  “They were so excited for our Valentine’s party after picking up their Valentine’s bags that they asked me to come on Zoom anyway.  Fourteen kids showed up to celebrate.  It totally warmed my heart.”

Some Ridgefield students have returned to in-person learning and others are still learning from home.  But no matter which place students are learning, teachers like Oderman continue to make sure they are getting the best education possible, one fun lesson at a time. 

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SEATTLE – With opioid overdose deaths increasing during the pandemic, the Drug Enforcement Administration announced its 20th Take Back Day scheduled for s://3">April 24, 2021.  At its last Take Back Day in October, DEA collected a record-high amount of expired, unused prescription medications, with the public turning in close to 500 tons of unwanted drugs. Over the 10-year span of Take Back Day, DEA has brought in more than 6,800 tons of prescription drugs. With studies indicating a majority of abused prescription drugs come from family and friends, including from home medicine cabinets, clearing out unused medicine is essential.

“The DEA Take Back is a safe, convenient, and responsible program to dispose of prescription drugs and keeping your family and our communities safe,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank Tarentino.  “This initiative is more vital now than ever before due to the alarming spike in overdose deaths throughout our nation.  I hope to see record breaking participation this April, which will contribute to the safety of all our citizens and the communities.”

Last October, residents of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington turned in an all-time record for the Pacific Northwest of 40,517 pounds at 150 collection sites. In addition, Alaska and Idaho had all-time record collections.  Collection numbers by state are as follows:

Alaska, 4,598 pounds at 16 collection sites.

Idaho, 10,526 pounds at 42 collection sites.

Oregon, 11,551 pounds at 45 collection sites.

Washington, 13,842 pounds at 56 collection sites.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. has seen an increase in overdose deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 83,544 Americans overdosing during the 12-month period ending July 1, 2020, the most ever recorded in a 12-month period. The increase in drug overdose deaths appeared to begin prior to the COVID-19 health emergency, but accelerated significantly during the first months of the pandemic.

The public can drop off potentially dangerous prescription medications at collection sites which will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations in order to maintain the safety of all participants and local law enforcement.

DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs. Liquids (including intravenous solutions), syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs will not be accepted. DEA will continue to accept vaping devices and cartridges at its drop off locations provided lithium batteries are removed.

Helping people dispose of potentially harmful prescription drugs is just one way DEA is working to reduce addiction and stem overdose deaths. 

Learn more about the event at www.deatakeback.com, or by calling 800-882-9539.

LOWER COLUMBIA MAJOR CRIMES TEAM

OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING INVESTIGATION

#A21-457

The Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team (LCMCT) is investigating an officer involved shooting, involving a Castle Rock Police Officer, that occurred on the night of February 28, 2021 in the Toutle, Washington area.  This incident began as a report of a stolen commercial van, taken from a location in Lewis County.  The van was equipped with GPS.  Cowlitz 911 received information that the stolen van was actively moving near Spirit Lake Hwy.

The Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office and Castle Rock Police Department were notified of this information.  A Castle Rock Police Officer responded to the call and located the stolen van traveling on Spirit Lake Hwy near Seaquest Park.  When the officer attempted to stop the van, it fled at a high rate of speed.

As the van continued Eastbound into Toutle, the driver stopped on the highway, reversed and struck the officer’s patrol vehicle.  The driver turned Westbound and began to flee again as the officer pursued.  The driver then stopped, drove in reverse again and rammed the officer’s vehicle a second time.  The officer was injured and his vehicle was disabled.  When the officer’s vehicle was struck, he dropped his primary duty weapon.  The officer transitioned to his backup pistol and fired at the driver.  Several bullets struck the van but neither the driver nor passenger were hit.  The driver and the passenger both fled on foot.

Deputies and officers from several agencies responded to the area to assist.  The driver of the van, identified as Dale E. Woodley, JR, age 40 of Longview, was detained by residents nearby after he unlawfully entered a trailer while attempting to evade capture.  Deputies learned Woodley had also attempted to steal an all-terrain vehicle. The passenger, identified as Timothy R. Bean, age 33 of Longview, was located by a Longview Police K-9 and was taken into custody.

The officer is currently being treated for a spinal fracture.  The Castle Rock Police Department patrol vehicle was extensively damaged and has been removed from service at this time. 

Dale Woodley was booked into Cowlitz County Jail for Two Counts of Assault 2nd Degree, Attempting to Elude a Law Enforcement Officer, Possession of Stolen Vehicle, Malicious Mischief 1st Degree, Criminal Trespass, and Attempted Theft 3rd Degree.  Timothy Bean was booked into Cowlitz County Jail for Possession of Stolen Vehicle.

The Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team was activated to investigate this incident per an Interlocal agreement.  This incident does not fall under the requirements for the Independent Investigation Team protocol as described in Washington Administrative Code 139-12 and RCW 10.114.011 as the officer’s use of force did not result in death, substantial bodily harm or great bodily harm to the suspects.  While the Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team will be conducting an independent investigation, the Family Liaison and Non-Law Enforcement Community Representative components will not be utilized in this investigation.

Troy Brightbill

Chief Criminal Deputy / Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office

Commander / Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team

360-577-3092

On Saturday, February 27, 2021, at around 7:35 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to an armed robbery at the Kaady Car Wash near the intersection of SW Canyon Road and SW 102nd Avenue in unincorporated Washington County, near Beaverton.

An employee told deputies he had been robbed by an unknown male suspect who was armed with a gun. The suspect demanded money from the victim before leaving the location. Surveillance video shows the suspect being approximately 5’10” tall with a skinny build. He was wearing a black or dark blue hooded sweatshirt, tan cargo pants, tan military-style boots, and a black military-style gas mask with filters attached.

Deputies searched the area but were unable to locate the suspect. Detectives are requesting that any community members with surveillance video showing someone walking or running through the neighborhood who does not appear to belong there, or perhaps getting picked up by a vehicle in the area to please contact us. Anyone with tips can report them to our non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 (case #50-21-2810).

Emergency Response Times Improve with Additional Personnel

BRUSH PRAIRIE, WA— Clark County Fire District 3 reports that call volumes dipped slightly from 4,381 calls in 2019 to 4,155 in 2020. However, the number of calls for emergency medical service increased from 3,010 to 3,196.

Both statistics are likely due to the pandemic. For example, more people stayed home leading to fewer fires and car accidents, but there were increases in calls for respiratory illness and other underlying medical conditions aggravated by the virus. 

Call data also shows that two voter-approved ballot measures – a fire levy lid lift in 2017 and annexation of the City of Battle Ground to the Fire District in 2020 – can be credited with improving emergency response times and helping the Fire District meet its Standards of Cover.  Standards of Cover are time limits set by an agency to ensure a safe and effective response to fires, medical calls, and situations requiring technical rescue.

This community support meant that Fire District 3 could hire additional personnel to form a full-time crew at its station in Venersborg and add another 24-hour crew at Station 35 in Battle Ground. Increasing capacity in these two areas means there are additional emergency resources available to respond district-wide, which has improved response times as well.

Fire Chief Scott Sorenson says response times will continue to improve in 2021 because data will reflect a full year of staffing level improvements. Chief Sorenson says that everyone at Fire District 3 is grateful for the community’s support to make this happen.

“These improvements are possible because our community values quality emergency services,” he said. “Everything we do is possible because of our taxpayers.”  

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Clark County Fire District 3 provides fire and life safety services to 40,000 people in east Clark County, including the city of Battle Ground. Fifty-two full-time and 10 volunteer emergency personnel responded to 4,155 calls in 2020.  Fire District 3 operates under a balanced budget and has a long history of passing its financial and accountability audits by the state. More information on Fire District 3 can be found on its website www.fire3.org.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Portland Water Bureau invite you to the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) virtual award event. Hear about big ste.ps the Water Bureau is taking to finance necessary improvements to our water system. Distinguished speakers will share the significance of this award to the Water Bureau and everyone in our community who relies on clean, safe, and reliable drinking water today and for future generations.  

Learn more about the Bull Run Treatment Projects at: portland.gov/About_BullRun_Treatment 

Learn more about WIFIA at: epa.gov/wifia 

Message from Sen. Jeff Merkley: https://youtu.be/RYlweAoCZ-g 

Bull Run Treatment Projects WIFIA Loan Award Recognition   

10 - 10:30 a.m., Thursday, March 4, 2021

A media Q&A will follow the event.   

Speakers:  U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley, EPA’s Acting Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler, Portland Water Commissioner Mingus Mapps, former Portland Water Commissioner Amanda Fritz, and Portland Water Bureau Director Gabriel Solmer.  

Registration is required. 

Media-only registration (not for publication): cityofportland.brand.live/c/bull-run-project-media 

Public registration: cityofportland.brand.live/c/bull-run-project 

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 53 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,200 miles of pipes. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day.

In-person services update from the City of Hillsboro as of March 1, 2021:

Utility Billing, Municipal Court, Development Services, and Permitting Support are now available in person inside the Hillsboro Civic Center. The building's first and fourth floors are open as of March 1, 2021, with COVID-19 health and safety precautions.

Utility Billing

Utility Billing has reopened for phone and in-person services Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm.

Utility Billing services are also available online or by phone:

• To pay your bill, set up a service, or report a leak, call 503-681-6163
• Pay your bill online
• Pay by mail or leave payment at a dropbox
• Activate service
• Shut off service

Support for Customers Affected by COVID-19

Having trouble paying your utility bill? Visit our Utility Assistance webpage to see if you qualify for the City’s flexible payment plan or bill relief options.

Water and utility services from the City of Hillsboro will not be discontinued during this time. In addition, the City has stopped charging late fees on past due bills and is extending payment arrangements with customers who are unable to pay their bills when due. Please contact our Utility Billing staff at 503-681-6163 to set up a payment arrangement.

Customers will continue to receive bills notifying them of the balance owed.

Community Development: Building, Planning, Transportation

The Community Development Department and its Building, Planning, and Transportation Systems Divisions are currently open for in-person services Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm. We continue to provide services online or by phone. 

Please contact us for additional information.

• Planning Division: 503-681-6153
• Building Division: 503-681-6144
• Schedule a Building Inspection: 503-681-6244
• Email the Community Development Department.

For your safety and convenience, applications and check payments can also be placed in the Utility Billing Dropbox, located in the South Civic Center Parking Lot at the corner of SE Washington St. and E. Main St. The documents must be in a sealed envelope clearly labeled with the appropriate division. This dropbox is checked twice daily.

Municipal Court

Municipal Court has reopened for phone and in-person services Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm and will resume arraignments and trials in the near future. If your court date was postponed during the closure, you will receive a notification in the mail with your new appearance date. You may also call 503-681-6157 for more information.

• Pay a parking ticket online.
• Pay a citation online.

Visit our Municipal Court webpage to learn how to handle your citation without appearing in person.

Continuing Essential Services

Reopening City Facilities

The continued closure of many facilities and careful reopening of others balance the City’s prioritization of the health and well-being of employees and the community at large with City employees’ role as trusted public servants.
 

Continuing Essential Services

Essential City services that have continued uninterrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic include:

• Police services
• Fire & Rescue services   
• Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
• Drinking water, utility services, and garbage collection
• Public Works and Parks Maintenance services
• Development services
• Capital projects

City phones continue to be answered and employees continue to work remotely whenever possible.

March 1, 2021

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

Oregon reports 197 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 4 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are four new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 2,212, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 197 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 155,787.

Oregon to receive Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose vaccine has received an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the federal government, making it the third COVID-19 vaccine available for use in the United States.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is the first single-dose vaccine against COVID-19. It can be stored in a refrigerator for months, making it easier to distribute without the need for ultra-cold storage.  

OHA estimates Oregon will receive 34,000 doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine this week. OHA is working with Local Public Health Authorities, state retail pharmacy partners and hospital systems to administer the vaccine.

It is anticipated that less of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be available in the next few weeks following this week’s initial allocation. OHA is planning for strategic deployment of the vaccine to speed up vaccinations in Oregon.

“Having access to a third highly effective COVID-19 vaccine is a game changing development for Oregonians,’ said Paul Cieslak, M.D, medical director for communicable diseases and immunization, OHA Public Health Division. “We believe this vaccine is effective against the virus, and a one-dose regimen will allow us to vaccinate more Oregonians more quickly.”

The process for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine review and approval was the same as it was for the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. The company submitted its application for EUA on Feb. 4.  

In its review of Johnson & Johnson’s application, the FDA reported the vaccine was 66% effective for moderate to severe/critical COVID-19 in all groups across all regions studied starting at 28 days after vaccination. The observed efficacy in the United States was 72%. The clinical trial involved 43,783 participants in the United States, Latin America, Brazil and South Africa.

“The best thing is that this one-dose vaccine was 85% efficacious in preventing severe COVID-19,” Dr. Cieslak said.

Reported vaccine side effects include pain at the injection site, mild to moderate headache, fatigue and muscle aches.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 13,794 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 6,169 doses were administered on Feb. 28 and 7,625 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Feb. 28.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

Oregon has now administered a cumulative total of 986,816 first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. To date, 1,241,415 doses of vaccine have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change. OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 132, which is two fewer than yesterday. There are 27 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is one more than yesterday.

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

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Test reporting change provides more detailed estimate of COVID-19 testing in Oregon

OHA continues to adapt how it reports COVID test results to provide a more detailed estimate of testing volume and percent positivity. The change will add test results reported via the Oregon COVID-19 Reporting Portal (OCRP) to the current Electronic Lab Reports (ELRs) totals.

OHA changed from the person-based test counts (i.e., number of people who test positive, negative, total people tested) to test-based counts on Dec. 3 by reporting the number of positive, negative and total COVID-19 electronic laboratory reports, representing the majority of COVID-19 test results reported statewide.

COVID-19 test results may also be reported by the secure, web-based confidential reporting system: Oregon COVID-19 Reporting Portal (OCRP). These reports were automatically routed to the appropriate local health department for public health action. Recent database improvements have made reporting these additional data possible.

These additional testing data will be published starting today in the Tableau dashboards and in risk level metrics for schools and counties. While there may be some changes to previously reported test positivity rates, case counts, and case rates have not changed.

OHA recommends that all Oregonians continue to follow the safe practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19. That includes wearing a mask or face covering, maintain physical distancing, minimize indoor social get-togethers, stay home if you feel sick, and frequently wash your hands.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (3), Clackamas (19), Columbia (5), Coos (6), Deschutes (4), Douglas (11), Jackson (13), Jefferson (2), Josephine (3), Lane (33), Lincoln (1), Linn (2), Marion (20), Multnomah (16), Polk (3), Umatilla (1), Washington (54) and Yamhill (1).

Oregon’s 2,209th COVID-19 death is an 89-year-old man in Josephine County who tested positive on Feb. 22 and died on Feb. 28 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,210th COVID-19 death is a 76-year-old man in Josephine County who tested positive on Feb.12 and died on Feb. 28 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,211th COVID-19 death is a 92-year-old woman in Lane County who tested positive on Feb. 25 and died on Feb. 27 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,212th COVID-19 death is an 88-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on Feb. 8 and died on Feb. 21 at Providence Portland Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations

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

Vancouver, Wash. – Governor Inslee last month appointed Clark County Councilor Temple Lentz to the state’s Affordable Housing Advisory Board. Councilor Lentz represents the Washington Association of Counties-Western Washington.

Councilor Lentz’s term of appointment ends Jan. 26, 2025.

The board’s role is to address the state’s need for housing that is affordable to all economic segments and populations. Its main tasks include:

• Analyzing solutions and programs that could begin to address the state’s need for affordable housing;
• Stimulating public and private sector cooperation; and
• Identifying and removing regulatory barriers to affordable housing.

“Here in Clark County, and across the state, affordable housing is a key issue that must be addressed,” said Councilor Lentz. “I am honored to be appointed and join this board, and I look forward to the opportunity to provide input and advise the state on diverse ways to increase housing affordability while also preserving community livability.”

The board meets quarterly and is made up of 22 members representing a variety of housing interests around the state.

For more information on the Affordable Housing Advisory Board, go to https://www.commerce.wa.gov/about-us/boards-and-commissions/affordable-housing-advisory-board/.

VANCOUVER, Wash. – How do sounds bring stories to life? Re-Imagined Radio considers the question in its March broadcast “Storytelling with Sounds.” Featuring examples from literature, drama, oral history and radio, the program explores how sounds, such as the storyteller's voice and sound effects, have contributed to storytelling throughout history.

The hour-long episode will be broadcast at noon March 15 on two local radio stations: Vancouver’s KXRW-FM (99.9 FM) and Portland’s KXRY-FM (91.1 FM or 107.1 FM). Rebroadcasts will be offered by Portland’s KUIK-AM (1360 AM) and Salem’s KMWV-FM (98.3 FM) The performance will also be available online via the stations’ websites and will be archived at reimaginedradio.net.

“Sound sparks our imagination like no other human sensory input,” said John Barber, faculty member in WSU Vancouver’s Creative Media and Digital Culture program and producer of Re-Imagined Radio. “As result, storytelling with sounds is especially effective in creating engaging stories.”

The program draws on examples from Beowulf to Shakespeare to Orson Welles, to show, in Barber’s words, how “storytelling with sounds creates a visual world in the mind's eye.” For instance, the program includes journalist Herb Morrison’s first “live on location” news report:  In 1937, when the Hindenburg caught fire, burned and crashed in seconds, Morrison recorded his observations, complete with his powerful emotional reaction. He is said to have hidden in a barn for hours, evading German SS officers who wanted the recording. But Morrison was able to return to Chicago and broadcast the news over WLS Radio.

Community Partners

Re-Imagined Radio draws on community voice actors, Foley artists, musicians, sound artists and engineers. Partners include Holly Slocum Design, Illuminus Audio Productions, the Kiggins Theatre, KXRW-FM, Martin John Gallagher Theatrical Music and Sound Design, Metropolitan Performing Arts, Regina Carol Social Media Management and Photography, and Willamette Radio Workshop.

About Re-Imagined Radio

Re-Imagined Radio was begun by Barber in 2013 to celebrate sound-based storytelling and pay tribute to the radio programs of the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s. Episodes initially were stage productions for live audiences, with limited opportunities for broadcast or streaming. Now, with COVID-19 restrictions, Re-Imagined Radio has become a monthly broadcast and livestreamed event.

About WSU Vancouver

As one of six campuses of the WSU system, WSU Vancouver offers big-school resources in a small-school environment. Both in person and online, the university provides affordable, high-quality baccalaureate- and graduate-level education to benefit the people and communities it serves. As the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington, WSU Vancouver helps drive economic growth through relationships with local businesses and industries, schools and nonprofit organizations. 

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Battle Ground, Wash   -   On February 28 at 8:23 pm Battle Ground Patrol Officers responded to a home located at 1400 NW 2nd Ave in Battle Ground.  Two people fled the house and called 9-1-1 to report that one of the home’s residents had assaulted one of them and was threatening them with a machete.  One of the victims required medical treatment from a bite inflicted by the suspect.  

Responding officers learned that a third possible victim and the suspect remained inside the home.  The home, located in a neighborhood setting, was contained by officers.  Within about 15 minutes of responding, the third person exited the home safely. 

The suspect remained inside the house and refused to come out despite the efforts of officers who attempted to communicate with him from outside the home.  Due to the serious nature of the threat, the Southwest Washington Regional SWAT Team was activated to provide on-scene tactical support. 

After continued failure by the suspect to comply with police instructions, the SWAT team deployed flashbangs followed by remote access in order to communicate with the suspect.  At 11:42 pm, just over 3 hours after the initial 9-1-1 call, the suspect exited the home and was arrested without further incident.

Donald F. Scott, DOB 7-9-1988, was charged with Assault 2 (RCW 9A.36.021, Domestic Violence) and booked into the Clark County Jail. 

Battle Ground Police Chief Mike Fort commended the actions of Battle Ground Patrol Officers who successfully contained the scene, got the victims to safety, and worked closely with the SWAT Team to bring the incident to a closure without further injury to anyone. 

Chief Fort also wanted to thank the community for giving the officers space to work safely. “I know this was disruptive to some citizens on a Sunday night, but your patience during the three-hour ordeal helped to bring this to a successful resolution.”

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Charter Review Commission will hold a workshop on Wednesday, March 3, 2021, at 5 pm.

The purpose of the workshop is to develop the commission’s work plan including the plan for public involvement and to identify topics to consider as potential charter amendments.

The commission is seeking specific input on the review process, public involvement process desired, and topics for amendment prior to the workshop to develop the work plan. Input can be provided by submitting written comments into the record for commission consideration at https://clark.wa.gov/county-manager/charter-review-commission-public-comment. The commission encourages residents to submit written comments into the record throughout the review process.

The public can follow the proceedings of the workshop by:

• Watching live on CVTV channel 23/323 or stream at www.cvtv.org
• Listening to audio only by calling: 1.408.418.9388, meeting access code: 187 340 8820

The Charter Review Commission is tasked with reviewing the county’s home rule charter approved by voters in November 2014. This will be the first review of the county’s charter.

The 15 commission members were elected in the Nov. 3, 2020, general election. Any changes to the charter that the review commission recommends would go to a countywide vote in a general election.

Information on the Charter Review Commission including recordings of previous meetings can be found on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/county-manager/charter-review-commission-overview. 

Media availability: Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County health officer and Public Health director, will be available to discuss vaccine allocation with media at 12:30 pm today via Zoom. Email Marissa Armstrong at issa.armstrong@clark.wa.gov">marissa.armstrong@clark.wa.gov for call information.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County’s COVID-19 vaccine allocation is increasing substantially this week. Through 11 weeks, Clark County received an average of 4,175 first doses of COVID-19 vaccine from the Washington State Department of Health. The vaccine was distributed to health care facilities, pharmacies and community vaccination sites throughout the county.

This week, Clark County health care providers will receive 14,140 first doses of COVID-19 vaccine. Clark County Public Health will work with several of the local health care facilities receiving vaccine to refer people from the county’s waiting list for vaccination appointments. Health care facilities will also schedule appointments with their patients.

Last week, Public Health released data comparing first-dose COVID-19 vaccine allocations for 15 counties – the five counties with the largest, smallest and median size populations. The data showed that Clark County was receiving less vaccine per capita than other counties. The disparity was impacting the county’s ability to get residents vaccinated and hindering efforts to ensure equitable access to vaccine.

The Washington State Department of Health notified Clark County Public Health that additional Pfizer vaccine was available for this week. Public Health worked with local health care providers to place additional vaccine orders.

“We’re thrilled to see the increase in COVID-19 vaccine allocation to Clark County this week,” said Clark County Board of Health Chair Eileen Quiring O’Brien. “The additional vaccine will ensure more community members can be protected against COVID-19.” 

In addition to the vaccine allocated to health care providers, Clark County Public Health is sending mobile vaccination teams to several housing authority facilities today and tomorrow. Volunteers will vaccinate seniors living in the facilities. Later this week, mobile teams will also return to adult family homes to provide second doses to residents and staff who received their first doses from mobile teams in early February.

Public Health continues to work with community partners to plan for additional mobile and fixed-location vaccination sites. Public Health intends to position sites in locations where residents have not been able to easily access vaccine and among communities and populations disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.

For more information about local COVID-19 vaccination efforts and to submit a request for COVID-19 vaccine, visit the Clark County Public Health COVID-19 vaccine webpage or call 888.225.4625. The Public Health call center operates 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.

EUGENE, Ore.—A former Eugene elementary school teacher was sentenced to federal prison today for sexually abusing a minor female, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug.

William Hamann, 38, was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison and ten years supervised release. Hamman was also ordered to pay restitution to his victim.

According to court documents, on several occasions beginning in 2018 and continuing until July 2019, Hamann paid a minor female for oral sex and recorded the minor performing the sex acts. The minor female was 15 years old during the first encounter with Hamman. Eugene Police Department detectives and FBI agents arrested Hamann on July 26, 2019, when he came to meet the minor a fourth time. Agents searched his mobile phone and found a recording of one of the sex acts. Hamman used social media to arrange the meetings with the minor.

A search of Hamman’s residence and digital devices revealed that he had previously approached several other females online who said they were minors. Investigators uncovered evidence that Hamman had engaged in sexually explicit conversations with them even after they said they were underage.

On August 21, 2019, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a four-count indictment charging Hamann with sexual exploitation and trafficking of a child, possession of child pornography, and attempted sex trafficking of a child. On January 19, 2021, he pleaded guilty to sex trafficking of a child.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Eugene Police Department. It was prosecuted by Jeff Sweet, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, and Katherine Green, Lane County Deputy District Attorney.

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

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

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

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Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington — April 17, 2021 — Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) announced that it will be virtually hosting their 12th annual dinner and auction, on Saturday, April 17, 2021. Tickets are $150 each or $1,250 for a VIP Sponsorship for up to ten guests. To join this unique and exciting livestream event, please email Sue Warren, Director of Development & Communications at ren@nwaba.org">swarren@nwaba.org or visit https://nwaba.org/powerup.

This is Northwest Association for Blind Athletes’ largest event of the year and fuels the organization’s life-changing programs and services for children, youth, adults and military veterans with visual impairments. This year’s event will be especially inspiring as we celebrate NWABA’s growth in improving the quality of life for individuals with visual impairments in our community and the generosity of our supporters who have helped us get there along the way.

Guests will enjoy exciting live and silent auction items, including a 4 day, 3 night trip for four to the Setting Inn in Napa Valley, CA and amazing wine packages including wines from some of Oregon, Washington, and California’s best wineries. You won’t want to miss this entertaining evening with powerful testimonials from athletes, a delicious meal with fine wine delivered to your home or place of business, and a chance to win our raffle prizes including a 5 day, 4 night stay in Sunriver, OR. All net proceeds will support Northwest Association for Blind Athlete’s mission of helping individuals with visual impairments build confidence, improve self-esteem, enhance physical activity, develop friendships, and gain the skills, tools, and resources to reach their greatest potential in all areas of life.

General donations to support Northwest Association for Blind Athletes are accepted online at www.nwaba.org/donate or by mailing a check to PO BOX 65265, Vancouver, WA, 98665. For more information on Northwest Association for Blind Athletes, please contact Billy Henry, Founder, President/CEO at 360-718-2826, or visit www.nwaba.org.

About NWABA:
The mission of Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. A group of visually impaired students formed the Association in 2007 to ensure that people who are blind were participating in sports and physical activity. Today, NWABA is a rapidly expanding charitable organization that provides nearly 1,800 children, youth, and adults with visual impairments tailored programming, which improves self-confidence and self-esteem, promotes independence, creates an inclusive community of supporters, and builds the skills necessary to succeed in all areas of life including school and employment.

For more information: http://www.nwaba.org 

Vancouver Public Schools is seeking applicants for the board of directors, position 2.  The position opened after Camara Banfield announced her resignation from the board in January following her appointment to Clark County Superior Court.

An application form is available on the district’s website: https://vansd.org. Forms also will be available at the Jim Parsley Administrative Services Center, 2901 Falk Rd., or by calling 360-313-1200. 

The appointment process will take place as outlined below.

• March 15: Applications are due by noon
• March 16: Board reviews applications in executive session
• March 22: Board interviews candidates 
• April 13: New director is sworn in

To serve on the school board, one must live within the boundaries of Vancouver Public Schools and be eligible to vote. By law, school district employees and, in most instances, their spouses are not eligible to serve as board members.

The appointment to position 2 is temporary until November 2021, when it will be open for election.

The appointment process follows the district’s policy 1114, “Board Member Resignation and Vacancy.”

In response to COVID-19, the Free Clinic of Southwest Washington will transition its annual in-person Sam Beall breakfast fundraiser to a one-day virtual event. This annual event, named after one of the Free Clinic’s founders, Dr. Sam Beall, will raise money to help the uninsured in Southwest Washington receive free, compassionate, quality health care.

On Thursday, May 13, tune in at https://freeclinics.org as you are taken through a heartfelt, video journey of the important work the Free Clinic is doing amid a world-wide pandemic. The Sam Beall virtual event will also include the chance to win great prizes when you sign up to support the Free Clinic. To register (its FREE!) visit https://freeclinics.org. The goal is to raise $25,000.

“During these times of uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, we need to counter this with warmth and love. This perspective is guiding our efforts as we prepare to host our Sam Beall virtual event,” explained Pam Knepper, Free Clinic Communications, Development and Outreach Manager. “We want to foster inclusion, camaraderie, and kinship amidst widespread social distancing. There is no better way to honor the community-building spirit on which the Free Clinic was founded more than 30 years ago. Please plan to join our special online event, so we can continue to offer compassionate care-always.”

About the Free Clinic:

The Free Clinic of Southwest Washington provides free, compassionate, quality health care to community members who are otherwise unable to obtain such services. The Free Clinic offers medical, dental, and specialty care services from 400 volunteer professionals. The Free Clinic is funded by the local community, and all donations stay in Southwest Washington. For more information about being a sponsor for the 2021 Sam Beall virtual event, please contact Pam Knepper at pam@freeclinics.org.

Vancouver, Wash. – The county manager is seeking applicants to fill two positions on the volunteer Community Action Advisory Board.

Positions are for low-income representatives from the county’s third and fourth districts. The third district is bounded on the south and west by the Columbia River and on the north and east by Northeast 78th Street west of Interstate 205 and Northeast 18th Street west of Northeast 164th Avenue. The fourth district encompasses Camas, Washougal, Brush Prairie, Battle Ground, Yacolt and unincorporated areas in east Clark County. See the county district map.

Both terms begin immediately. The district three vacancy is filling a term ending Dec. 31, 2023; the district four term ends Dec. 31, 2022. Incumbents have the opportunity for re-appointment to two additional three-year terms.

Low-income representatives are defined as any person who is nominated by a group who is low-income such as tenants of a low-income housing complex or an agency that predominantly serves people who are low-income such as Council for the Homeless, Share, NAMI, etc.

The 12-member board makes recommendations about local government funding for basic needs, self-sufficiency and housing programs. Members also advocate for services supporting low-income communities, families and persons.

Clark County is looking to diversify the board composition and encourages people with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to apply, especially those from historically oppressed or underserved communities.

Interested residents must submit an application and résumé to Rebecca Royce, Clark County Community Services, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or ebecca.royce@clark.wa.gov">rebecca.royce@clark.wa.gov.

Application information can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/community-services/caab-community-action-advisory-board or by calling Rebecca Royce at 564.397.7863.

Positions are open until filled, first review March 22.

March 1, 2021

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

Changes to scheduling vaccine appointments via the Vaccine Information Tool (chatbot) go into effect Monday

Portland, OR — To help alleviate the challenges people have faced attempting to schedule a vaccine appointment at the Oregon Convention Center, the Oregon Health Authority and the All4Oregon health system partners will change the process for appointments via the Vaccine Information Tool (chatbot), starting Monday, March 1, 2021.  

As of today, adults who are 65 and older will become eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. But adults who are 65 and older, and most people who are eligible for vaccines in Phase 1A in the Portland metro area, will no longer be directed to the chatbot to schedule appointments at the Oregon Convention Center.

The change does not apply to people with mobility issues, who will continue to be able to access appointments at the Portland Airport Red Economy Parking Lot drive-thru clinic through the chatbot. Educators in the Portland metro area and people who live in Marion County also can continue to find appointments through the Vaccine Information Tool.

The change does not impact people who have already scheduled vaccine appointments at the Oregon Convention Center, the Portland Airport or the Legacy Woodburn Health Center.

All Oregonians, including senior adults age 65 and over, can sign up to be notified about vaccination events when they are eligible at the Get Vaccinated Oregon signup tool. The Get Vaccinated Oregon (GVO) signup tool can be found at covidvaccine.oregon.gov.

The new appointment scheduling process for eligible older adults who live in Clackamas, Columbia, Multnomah or Washington counties, will be based on names being pulled from the Get Vaccinated Oregon tool.

On a weekly basis, OHA will use that GVO tool to electronically scramble the names of all eligible older adults in the metro area.  OHA will then send a list of names to All4Oregon that matches the number of vaccination appointments available for scheduling.  

All4Oregon will contact individuals to schedule their appointment.

Due to limited supply, not everyone who is eligible will be included on the weekly list. All eligible groups who want a vaccine will get a vaccine over the coming months.

All4Oregon is the joint effort of Kaiser Permanente, Legacy Health, OHSU and Providence to collaborate in operating the mass vaccination clinic at the Oregon Convention Center.

 As more vaccines become available, vaccine distribution sites will expand to more locations, such as retail pharmacies, outpatient clinics and other sites linked to hospitals and health systems.

The additional vaccine and additional sites will help address the challenges people are experiencing as high demand exceeds the limited supply.

Older adults and anyone who needs help better understanding the scheduling options are encouraged to call 211.

Monday, March 1, 2021 - Woodburn, OR - On the morning of Sunday, February 28, two juveniles were arrested for breaking into vehicles and slashing vehicle tires in the area of Grant St. north to Newberg Hwy. between N. 1st St to N. 4th St. Woodburn Police are asking anyone who may have been a victim of similar crimes the same evening in this area to please contact them at 503-982-2345 and reference case number 21-2340.

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Portland, Oregon:  2021 marks the 75th anniversary of Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metropolitan Area (BGCP). Founded in 1946, the Clubs have been providing thousands of young people throughout the Portland Metro area with affordable, high-quality after-school and summer programs.  The diamond anniversary is the prime opportunity for the Clubs to share and celebrate a continued mission to empower all young people, especially those who need them most, to discover their full potential as caring, engaged, responsible community members. 

Co-chaired by former Portland Trail Blazer, Terry Porter, and current NBA Player and Trail Blazer, CJ McCollum, the 75th Anniversary year will include several celebrations, fundraisers, and projects to share with the communities of Portland how the Clubs continue to provide safe, nurturing spaces for underserved youth. To kick off the 75th Anniversary, Clubs are encouraging the public to take part in the #75Challenge beginning March 1, a campaign featuring CJ McCollum that asks people to share their talents on social media in 75 seconds. 

“Post your best 75 seconds of dancing, shooting hoops, singing, random acts of kindness, reading, and anything you can dream up,” said McCollum in a kick-off video.  “Tag @BGCPortland, use #75Challenge, and issue the challenge to your family, friends, and followers.”

BGCP will be airing its annual fundraiser, Be Great Ball, on FOX 12 PLUS (KPDX) on May 6, 2021, at 7:00 p.m.  The broadcast will allow the public to learn more about club programs and include unique ways to donate. An exhibit at Oregon Historical Society will run June 15, 2021 – August 15, 2021.  Alpha Media radio stations, including 101.9 KINK, LIVE 95.5, 98.7 The Bull, will be holding a radiothon in December to share inspiring stories about the Clubs and how the public can get involved.  Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland C.E.O., Terry Johnson, sees the 75th Anniversary as an opportunity to share all the great work the Clubs are doing to shape futures and how his own experiences as a youth in the Clubs inspired him to pursue a career in service.

“I can personally speak to how important Boys & Girls Clubs are to a youth in their formative years –growing up in Texas as a “Club kid,” said Johnson.  “Having the positive guidance and support system that the Clubs provided was so critical to shaping my path in life. My entire professional career has been dedicated to serving marginalized youth and families because of what the Clubs did for me.”

Coming off a challenging 2020 year, BGCP is more committed than ever to provide for communities in the Portland Metro area. From March through December of last year, the Clubs were able to provide nearly 200,000 meals and snacks through strategic partnerships with minority-owned businesses and food trucks, 14,760 hours of programming, and 248 hours of virtual counseling and mental health support. During the pandemic, BGCP reached beyond the work inside the Clubs to supply 1,086 COVID-19 tests. The Rockwood Club in East Portland is currently serving as a COVID-19 vaccination site in partnership with Multnomah County.

Over the 75 years that BGCP has served Portland Metro communities, the needs have changed, challenges have evolved, and Clubs have moved. Though change has been constant, the Clubs have evolved to provide year-round service to our Club members, their families, the communities where we are located and focused on doing whatever it takes.  “Our Clubs are designed to provide opportunities and resources for youth to develop healthy habits, to build skills for leadership, to express themselves authentically with strength, and most importantly, to shape the brilliant futures they envision,” said Johnson.  “I am even more optimistic about what 2021 will bring as we celebrate our 75th anniversary of Shaping Brilliant Futures.”

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ABOUT BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF PORTLAND METRO Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metro play a vital role in our community, serving youth for 75 years. BGCP empowers more than 6,400 youth each year to discover their full potential through impactful after-school and summer programs. Clubs are designed to support kids and teens as they develop the qualities they need to achieve academic success, become responsible leaders, and live healthy lives. Today, the Clubs operate nine facilities located throughout the metropolitan area, including school-site programs in the North Clackamas School District. For more, visit www.bgcportland.org.  

Vancouver, Washington – Vancouver Parks and Recreation is ramping up youth recreation programming under Phase 2 of the state’s Healthy Washington reopening plan with full-day spring break camps and the launch of the outdoor youth soccer season. Registration is now open for both programs.

Spring Break Day Camps will run April 5-9 for campers ages 6 to 12 at both Firstenburg (700 N.E. 136th Ave.) and Marshall (1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd.) community centers. Day camp hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day with structured activities from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The one-week camp costs $190 for Vancouver residents and $219 for non-residents. Register online at www.cityofvancouver.us/SpringCamp.

Outdoor soccer kicks off March 29 at Fisher Basin Community Park (S.E. 192nd Ave. and Mill Plain Blvd.) and Marshall Community Park (1015 E. McLoughlin Blvd.). The youth recreation league is open to ages 3 ½ to 9 with practices that meet one evening a week after 5 p.m. League games will be on Saturdays, April 17 through June 5. Spring league costs $69 for Vancouver residents and $79 for non-residents. Register online at www.cityofvancouver.us/YouthSports.

Scholarships that cover 50% of tuition for youth recreation program are available to eligible Clark County residents, based on family size and household income. If approved, the scholarship is applied to all children who meet the age guidelines within the household. Complete the scholarship form at www.cityofvancouver.us/scholarship.

Vancouver Parks and Recreation has instituted youth recreation safety protocols that follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local public health experts, including:

• Physical distancing and face coverings required
• Health screenings upon arrival
• Dedicated small groups
• Regular handwashing or sanitizing throughout the program
• Individual equipment and materials that are not shared with others and are sanitized daily

For assistance with registration or scholarship applications, contact Firstenburg Community Center at 360-487-7001 or Marshall Community Center at 360-487-7100.

Find information about all Vancouver Parks and Recreation current activities at www.vanparksrec.org.

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Salem, Ore. - The Statewide Database Licensing Advisory Committee (SDLAC) will meet on Thursday, March 11, 2021, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. online. This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact Arlene Weible at lene.weible@slo.oregon.gov">arlene.weible@slo.oregon.gov. Jennifer Croft of Bandon will chair the meeting. The agenda is included.

The SDLAC advises the State Library and the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Advisory Council on the Statewide Database Licensing Program. Committee membership represents school, public, tribal, and academic libraries. The current member list is available at: www.oregon.gov/Library/libraries/Pages/SDLAC.aspx.

Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested 48 hours before the meeting; notice 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in alternate formats 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to Arlene Weible at lene.weible@slo.oregon.gov">arlene.weible@slo.oregon.gov.

Agenda

2:00           Welcome and introductions (Croft)

2:15           Review agenda and approve meeting minutes from September 17, 2020 (Croft)

2:20           Choose Chair elect (Croft)

2:25           Review action items from last meeting and other updates (Weible)

2:30           Review of LSTA budget and 5-year plan evaluation (Nielsen)

3:00           Online general encyclopedia funding – language for advocacy (Weible/Blair/Light)

3:30           Libraries of Oregon transition (Weible)

3:45           Action Item review and schedule next meeting (Weible)

4:00           Adjourn

NOTE: The times of all agenda items are approximate and subject to change.

On 02/28/2021 at 8:49 pm, Yamhill Communications began receiving 911 calls regarding a serious injury motor vehicle crash on SE Baker Street near SE Cowls Street.   Officers and EMS arrived on scene and determined the crash involved only one vehicle, a 2012 Suzuki motorcycle.  Due to the serious nature of this crash, the Yamhill County Multi-Agency Traffic Team was activated to assist with the investigation and crash reconstruction.  Preliminary investigation revealed that the motorcycle was being operated by 43 year old Lafayette resident, Jesse C Davis.  An adult male riding as a passenger on the motorcycle at the time of the crash has not yet been positively identified.  Davis suffered life threatening injuries and was transported by McMinnville Fire Department ambulance to the Willamette Valley Medical Center and then via Life Flight helicopter to OHSU.  The male passenger suffered serious injuries and was transported by McMinnville Fire Department ambulance to an awaiting Life Flight helicopter, which transported him to the Salem Health Emergency Department.   The preliminary investigation has revealed that speed and alcohol are a factor in this crash.

We would like to speak to witnesses that stopped at the scene of the crash but left prior to being interviewed by officers.  Those witnesses were in a dark colored Dodge Challenger and a light colored SUV of an unknown make/model.   Please contact Sergeant Josh Sheets at (503)434-7307 or josh.sheets@mcminnvilleoregon.gov  and reference case 21-734.   We would also like to speak to any other witnesses who may have seen the motorcycle driving prior to the crash on SW Baker Street or Hwy 99W south of McMinnville.

The Yamhill County Multi-Agency Traffic Team is comprised of members of the McMinnville Police Department, Newberg-Dundee Police Department, Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office, Yamhill Police Department and the Yamhill County District Attorney’s Office.   Traffic control assistance at this crash was provided by ODOT.

The Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team is investigating an Officer Involved Shooting that occurred before midnight on February 28th, 2021.  The involved officer is employed by the Castle Rock Police Department.  The initial investigation has determined that the officer was attempting to stop a stolen van in the Toutle, Washington area.  The driver of the van reportedly rammed the officer's patrol vehicle twice during the incident.  The officer fired shots during the incident, striking the van.  The occupants of the van were not hit and fled on foot. 

The Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office and several police agencies responded to the scene to assist.  The driver and passenger from the van were located and taken into custody.  The involved officer suffered serious injuries and was transported for medical treatment.

The suspects in this incident have been identified as Dale E. Woodley Jr, 40, of Longview, and Timothy R. Bean, 33, of Longview.  Woodley was identified as the driver of the van and was booked into Cowlitz County Jail for Two Counts of Assault 2nd Degree, Attempting to Elude a Law Enforcement Officer, Possession of Stolen Vehicle, Malicious Mischief 1st Degree, Criminal Trespass, and Attempted Theft 3rd Degree.  Bean was booked into Cowlitz County Jail for Possession of Stolen Vehicle.

Just before 3:35 pm today, multiple callers to 911 reported flames and a fully engulfed garage at 1315 NE Stile Dr. in Hillsboro. Callers reported hearing many small explosions coming from within the garage. Two vehicles parked in the driveway in front of the garage also caught fire. A resident attempted to relocate one of the vehicles away from the garage as part of the vehicle was burning.

Engine 3 arrived to find a single-story residence with the garage fully engulfed. As they began to attack the fire in the garage, Engine 6 arrived and worked to extinguish the relocated vehicle that had caught fire. Firefighters determined that the fire had spread into the attic and transitioned their attack. Truck 5 engaged the roof of the residence to provide ventilation to allow smoke and heated gas to release from the structure. Extinguishment of the attic fire was challenging as firefighters contended with abundant storage of personal items. Firefighters searched the structure and confirmed that all residents made it out safely. No injuries were reported.

A fire investigator determined the area of origin for the fire was in the garage. The cause of the fire was related to a running vehicle inside the garage.

A Hillsboro Fire Public Safety chaplain responded to the fire to provide support to the residents with assistance from the Red Cross. Two adults were displaced because of the fire.

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue was assisted by Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Metro West Ambulance, Hillsboro Police, NW Natural, and Portland General Electric.

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The initial call to 911 at 10:17 am today reported explosions coming from a garage at 815 NE 67th Ave in Hillsboro. The caller reported that a large garage had visible flames and smoke showing with one window that had exploded open and flames burning up and out of that window. Residents attempted to slow the fire with garden hoses and were advised by the 911 dispatcher to stay safely away from the structure. Upon hearing the fire information, the incident commander upgraded the incident to a first alarm.

Ronler Acres Engine 3 arrived within five minutes of dispatch to find a large, approximately 2,500 square-foot, two-story garage with active fire. Engine 3 initiated an attack on the fire supported by Engine 6 that set up a water supply line. Truck 5 searched the structure and confirmed that no one was inside. The fire moved quickly through the garage and eventually the second-story floor began to lose its structural integrity. Firefighters extinguished the body of fire and overhauled the structure putting out hot spots. The fire was contained in the garage building and did not extend to the home or other buildings. No injuries were reported. Thirty firefighters responded to the incident.

A fire investigator determined the area of origin for the fire was in the second-story storage area of the garage. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.  

A Hillsboro Fire Public Safety chaplain responded to the fire to provide assistance to the residents.

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue was assisted by Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Metro West Ambulance, Hillsboro Police, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, NW Natural, and Portland General Electric.

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