FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: June 28, 2022

Salem, Ore. — The Salem Police Department is now participating in the Oregon Car Care Program, a project that focuses on improving traffic safety by helping drivers correct minor equipment violations with a discount voucher.

Effective today, officers will issue vouchers for infractions related to equipment which by law is required to function properly on a vehicle, such as lighting, rearview mirrors, windshield wipers, and fenders or mudguards. The vouchers, redeemable at various stores in the area, provide a 20% discount to the vehicle owner, making it easier for them to get the necessary equipment to drive safely. 

“With the Car Care program, we have an opportunity to address equipment violations through education and cooperation, rather than a citation,” said Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack. 

Improved traffic safety is highlighted in the Salem Police Department’s three-year strategic plan which includes developing efforts to direct traffic enforcement toward serious moving violations that result in collisions and away from mere equipment violations.

The Car Care Program was developed by the Oregon State Police in 2016 with the focus of assisting drivers who defer automobile maintenance costs. In 2019, the program was centralized through the Oregon Association Chiefs of Police as a way to extend the benefits to agencies throughout the state.

“For us, the program also offers another critical component to our community’s safety and that’s relationship-building and trust,” explained the police chief. “By expanding the approach to interactions with the public, officers also have a chance offer some understanding to drivers who find themselves having to put off car upkeep, while also reminding drivers about the importance of traffic safety.”

Womack noted, “Having a conversation without a citation can go a long way to increased understanding, as well as building trust with the community.”

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Oregon Community Foundation Taps Nationally Recognized Community Development Finance Leader as Next CEO

Lisa Mensah returns home and brings a background in rural development and economic justice to OCF as she steps into chief executive role

PORTLAND, Ore. – June 28, 2022, Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) Board of Directors announced today that they have named a national expert in economic opportunity and security, Lisa Mensah, to be the Foundation’s next Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Mensah will be OCF’s fourth CEO in its nearly 50-year history, succeeding Max Williams, who is transitioning out of his role after a decade of leadership. 

Lisa Mensah is widely considered an expert on access to capital in distressed and low-wealth communities and on the role of finance in social, economic, and racial justice. As president and CEO of Opportunity Finance Network (OFN), Ms. Mensah currently heads one of the nation’s leading networks of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). Since joining OFN in 2017, Lisa Mensah has brought new visibility and investment to the CDFI field. Most recently during the COVID-19 pandemic, she was a forceful advocate for America’s most vulnerable small businesses and microbusinesses, helping safeguard them by bringing new capital and partners to the CDFI industry. In 2020, Google partnered with OFN to invest $180 million in corporate and philanthropic capital into CDFIs through OFN as the lending intermediary. The same year, OFN launched the Finance Justice Fund, which strives to raise a fresh $1 billion of socially responsible capital, with Twitter as the Fund’s first investor.

Born and raised in Oregon, Ms. Mensah is returning to her home state following an illustrious career that has taken her from working on rural poverty with the Ford Foundation to serving as Undersecretary for Rural Development at the USDA in the Obama Administration, managing a $215 billion loan portfolio, to currently leading Opportunity Finance Network.

“I am excited to return to my roots here in Oregon; to leverage my expertise and the sum of my experiences,” said Lisa Mensah, OCF’s incoming president and CEO.  “In this moment, I feel very fortunate to join hands with a 50-year tradition at Oregon Community Foundation, working to help this state and its people flourish.”

“Oregon Community Foundation catalyzes community-led solutions in support of a healthy, thriving Oregon. We look forward to welcoming Lisa Mensah back home in this new leadership role to help advance this great work, and all that will be accomplished together in the years ahead.” said Kimberly Cooper, Board Chair, Oregon Community Foundation.

Lisa Mensah begins her official role as president and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation in September 2022. She will oversee the development of the Foundation’s next strategic plan and OCF’s 50^th anniversary in 2023. Until her arrival, Max Williams continues in the top leadership role.

About Lisa Afua Serwah Mensah

Lisa Mensah holds an M.A. from Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and a B.A. from Harvard University and has led Opportunity Finance Network since March 2017, bringing expertise in both public and private sector financial tools to improve economic security. She serves on the Board of Ecotrust, as well as the FDIC Advisory Committee on Economic Inclusion, Bank of America National Community Advisory Committee; Morgan Stanley Community Development Advisory Committee; Capital One Community Advisory Council; and Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women Advisory Council. She also sits on the boards of Fidelity Bank of Ghana and Heritage and Cultural Society of Africa-USA and the Gaia Impact Fund Advisory Council.

Ms. Mensah has previously served as USDA Undersecretary for Rural Development during the Obama Administration; founded the Initiative on Financial Security at The Aspen Institute; and held leadership positions at the Ford Foundation. She began her career in commercial banking.

To learn more, please visit: https://oregoncf.org/mensah/

OCF Board Applauds Williams’ Decade of Service and Legacy of Impact

Oregon Community Foundation’s outgoing leader, Max Williams was at the helm of OCF for one of the most interesting periods of growth, complexity, and impact for the foundation. In response to cascading crises of the past two years Williams oversaw the deployment of resources at an unprecedented rate, granting $560 million to benefit every community in Oregon.

Williams leaves a legacy of impact that includes growing OCF’s endowment to $3.7 billion, creating a $30 million Oregon Impact Fund, and stewarding some of the largest charitable gifts in Oregon’s history.

“The mark of a good leader is to leave a place better than when you found it. The mark of a great leader is to ensure that the place continues its path to betterment even after you’re gone,” said OCF Board Chair Kimberly Cooper. “As his predecessor did for him, Max Williams is opening the door to a new voice and experienced leader who will amplify and accelerate a trajectory of impact for decades to come,” she added.

“OCF is an amazing network of generous donors, volunteers and community members working together to make Oregon a better place for everyone,” said Williams. “I am excited about Lisa’s experience, her background and her Oregon roots. I have confidence that Lisa will expand OCF’s impact as we enter the next 50 years of OCF’s service to community.”

About Oregon Community Foundation

Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) works with donors and volunteers to award grants and scholarships to every county in Oregon. From 2020 to 2021, OCF distributed more than $560 million, supporting more than 4,000 nonprofits and 6,000 students. With OCF, individuals, families, businesses, and organizations create charitable funds that meet the needs of diverse communities statewide. Since its founding in 1973, OCF has distributed more than $2 billion toward advancing its mission to improve lives for all Oregonians. For more information, please visit: oregoncf.org.

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Multnomah County sheriff’s deputies performed a traffic enforcement mission to reduce reckless and impaired driving, and locate and recover stolen vehicles in East Multnomah County. The Gresham Police Department also assisted.

During Sunday night’s mission, law enforcement officers made 57 traffic stops, recovered two stolen cars and arrested 12 people. Charges included reckless driving, attempted assault of a police officer, possession and distribution of a controlled substance (fentanyl), DUII, and various warrants.

In response to the county’s dramatic rise in violent crimes, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, along with our public safety partners, has implemented data-driven violence reductions strategies. One solution is performing patrol missions in hot-spot areas where traffic-related fatalities and gun violence intersect. These missions have mainly focused in areas east of 162nd Avenue.

Since these efforts began in mid-April, these missions have resulted in 173 traffic stops, 45 arrests, and 9 recovered stolen vehicles.

Both Multnomah County Sheriff Mike Reese and Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg participated in Sunday night’s mission.

WILSONVILLE, Ore. — Oregon Charter Academy (ORCA) will be the only school in Oregon to join hundreds of sites across the country to celebrate the release of the first science images from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope — the largest and most complex space science telescope ever built — on Tuesday, July 12, from 3 to 5 p.m. The public is invited to join this historic event for free at 30485 SW Boones Ferry Rd., #202, in Wilsonville (open to the first 100 registrants) or virtually (open to the first 1,000 registrants). Register here. 
 

In a continuation of ORCA’s ongoing efforts to provide its students with STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) enrichment, the University of Oregon’s physics department will make an appearance at the event, armed with special-lensed telescopes to assist attendees while they view the sun (weather permitting). 

“Igniting interest in STEM is imperative to ORCA,” said Dan Vasen, principal of ORCA STEM programs and champion of the school’s NASA club. “Providing special opportunities through events like these can stimulate the type of learning that creates passion, while at the same time helping students process classroom topics and their relevance to real world applications.” 

ORCA’s NASA club has been bringing monthly live streams from various NASA space centers to ORCA students for three years. The club also provides virtual reality apps, programs that connect with coding space rovers, and much more. In February, over 90 ORCA students and staff watched the James Webb Telescope reach its final destination, and now students and other science enthusiasts can celebrate the results. 
 

“The NASA club is just one of the many STEM programs at ORCA,” said Vasen. “In an effort to take remote learning to the next level, we’ll be partnering with more space centers next year to increase the number of virtual events and the scope of educational enrichment materials provided to ORCA students.”  

ORCA is one of only seven organizations throughout Oregon selected to participate in this historic viewing. Additional organizations include: Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), Evergreen Air and Science Museum, Airway Science for Kids and ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum. Each organization will host viewing events on varying days and times.
 

ABOUT THE JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE

The James Webb Space Telescope is the largest and most complex space science telescope ever built — the premier observatory of the next decade. This international mission, led by NASA in partnership with the European Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency, launched Dec. 25, 2021. After unfolding in space into its final form, Webb successfully arrived at its destination nearly 1 million miles from Earth and began preparing for science operations. The observatory, which is designed to see the universe in the infrared, will push the field of astronomy into a new era. Webb will be able to study light from distant parts of the universe for the very first time and give us insight into how our universe formed. 
 

It will also peer into dusty stellar nurseries to explore distant worlds orbiting other stars, as well as observe objects in our own solar system. Webb will extend the scientific discoveries of other NASA missions like the Hubble Space Telescope, Chandra X-ray Observatory, and Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite.
 

To learn more about the Webb telescope, visit webb.nasa.gov and webbtelescope.org or view the media kit. 
 

ABOUT OREGON CHARTER ACADEMY

The Oregon Charter Academy (ORCA), is a tuition-free online public charter school that has been serving K - 12 students successfully for 17 years. Combining twenty-first century learning with standards-based curriculum, ORCA is the only school in Ore., Wash., and Calif. to be recognized as a 2021 Cognia School of Distinction; and placed as Best Charter School and Best Overall Leadership within the Statesman Journal awards. ORCA provides students with approximately 40 student clubs, over 200 field trips each year, career and technical education programs, college credit options, teen parent programs, AVID implementation, and monthly learning sessions with NASA.
 

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You Buy One, We Plant One campaign donates $1 from every purchase to plant one tree

Once again, four leading Oregon craft beverage producers are teaming up with Oregon Parks Forever to raise funds to replant 25,000 trees in Oregon’s parks and forests.

Between record breaking fires caused by a freak windstorm to an extreme heat event that set the stage for another bad fire year, Oregon has seen unusually severe tree damage the past two years. 

As we embark on summer activities, fire officials are warning that we are heading for another challenging fire season this summer.

So, once again, sustainability-minded craft beverage producers Canned Oregon by Stoller Wine Group, Fort George Brewery, Portland Cider Company, and Sunriver Brewing are collaborating to help Oregon Parks Forever’s effort to replant one million trees so that Oregon’s forests will once again be green and lush for future generations. 

For all of July and August, at all Oregon retailers, $1 from select 6-pack of cans of Sunriver Brewing and Fort George beer, Portland Cider Company cider, and 375mL cans of Canned Oregon wine by Stoller Wine Group sold will be donated to Oregon Parks Forever as part of their tree replanting campaign. Each dollar collected will cover the cost of planting one tree. You buy one. We plant one.      

"We are thrilled to have the continuing support of these fine craft beverage producers toward this important project. With the help of these fine craft beverage makers, and many others, we were able to fund the planting of over a half a million trees last year. Trees provide the very necessities of life,” said Seth Miller, Oregon Parks Forever executive director. “They clear our air, protect our drinking water, create healthy communities and feed our souls.  Our forests provide critical wildlife habitat, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities.  They sequester carbon and help reduce soil erosion by stabilizing slopes and preventing landslides.” 

Oregon Parks Forever has set a goal of planting at least a million trees. So far, they have funded the replanting of more than half a million trees!  You can support their efforts by donating directly, or buying the participating products from these craft beverage producers at your local retailer this summer. 

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About Oregon Parks Forever

Since 1995, Oregon Parks Forever has been raising funds to help fund programs and projects that enhance the experience of using Oregon’s parks & forests. Emphasis is placed on projects that protect existing facilities and amenities, increase park accessibility, provide healthy activities and educate the future stewards of our public lands. Oregon Parks Forever is a statewide nonprofit organization whose mission includes working with federal, state, local and tribal public land managers to enhance and preserve special places and experiences in all Oregon parks.

For more information, visit orparksforever.org/

Contact: Seth Miller, Executive Director, 503- 913-8672

About Stoller Wine Group

Stoller Wine Group is a family of wine brands from Oregon wine pioneer, Bill Stoller. Its brands and products are based on various price points and distribution models. They include Stoller Family Estate, Chehalem Winery, History, Canned Oregon, and Chemistry. Fun, fast-paced, and progressive, the Stoller Wine Group is always seeking to improve its brands, and company, with a lens towards sustainability and its B Corp values. For more information, visit stollerwinegroup.com

Contact: Michelle Kaufmann, Vice President of Communications, 503-864-3404

About Sunriver Brewing

Sunriver Brewing Company’s pub in the Village at Sunriver opened to rave reviews in the summer of 2012. Recognizing that the original pub would not accommodate demand, a 13,000-square foot building was purchased in the Business Park in 2014. Since that time, Sunriver Brewing Company has garnered many national and international awards for their craft beer. In February of 2016, Sunriver opened its second pub location on Galveston Avenue in Bend Oregon. The year of 2017 included a major national accomplishment with winning Small Brewing Company of the Year at the Great American Beer Festival. In 2019 Sunriver opened its third pub in the Oakway Center located in Eugene, Oregon. For more information, visit sunriverbrewingcompany.com

Contact: Ryan Duley, Director of Stuff & Things, 541-728-3453

About Fort George Brewery

Fort George Brewery is a family-owned and operated craft brewery in Astoria, Oregon. They have been making beer in Astoria for over 15 years. What started out as an 8.5 barrel system in the back of a pub has grown to become so much more than a brewery. Fort George is proud to be a member of a thriving community on the coast, operating 2 restaurants for the hungry people, a taproom for the thirsty ones, 2 smaller scale research and development breweries, one large scale production facility, and a craft-focused distributor representing a handsome portfolio of over 200 similarly-minded breweries, wineries and cideries. They distribute their original beers across the Pacific Northwest but the heart of Fort George is in Astoria. Fort George makes beer for a stronger community.

Contact:       Brian Bovenizer, Marketing Director, 503-791-2323

About PortlandCider Company

Portland Cider Company was founded in 2013 to bring hand-crafted, award-winning cider to the Northwest. The company recognizes Portland and her bold spirit as the inspiration behind their innovative ciders, and promises the cleanest, tastiest and most enjoyable cider-drinking experience the city has to offer. Portland Cider has two taproom locations in the Portland Metro Area, where they encourage all to visit, sample, and expect more from the cider they drink. For more information, visit portlandcider.com

Contact: Helen Lewis, Marketing Director, 503-305-0877

Meals on Wheels People partners with Youth Charity League to collect and distribute 4,000 books to children in underserved communities throughout the cities of Portland and Gresham

PORTLAND, Ore., June 28, 2022 — In partnership with Meals on Wheels People’s Meals 4 Kids (M4K) program, Youth Charity League (YCL) is celebrating the success of its 3rd-annual ‘Book It Forward’ children’s book drive, which supports children’s literacy throughout the greater Portland metropolitan area. During May and June, YCL accepted donations of more than 4,000 gently used and new books, along with raising funds for the purchase of Spanish language books. These books have been delivered to Meals on Wheels People for distribution through its M4K program, which serves low-income children and families in the cities of Portland and Gresham.

In response to the detrimental impacts that pandemic-related school and library closures have had on children’s literacy, YCL established ‘Book It Forward’ in 2020, with a specific focus on increasing literary access to children in underserved communities. Students who don’t read—especially over summer break—are at risk of falling behind in school, creating an achievement gap between economically disadvantaged students and their peers who experience consistent access to learning materials. ‘Book It Forward’ aims to close this gap by equipping students from underserved communities with the literacy tools they need to succeed. 

“We are very excited to partner with YCL to bring both nutritious meals and engaging books to the children we serve through our Meals 4 Kids program,” said Jessica Morris, chief people and strategy officer at MOWP. “We know that recent school years have brought considerable challenges to families—especially those that are low income and families of color. In addition to providing meals to food-insecure children and families in the cities of Portland and Gresham, delivering these books will offer educational enrichment that nourishes the minds of children in our community through the summer months.”

Through community partnerships with Powell’s Books, local schools and bookstores, and individual donations, YCL surpassed its goal to collect 4,000 books, enabling the organization to serve more children and families than in years past. The M4K program, which delivers meals to qualified children and families experiencing food insecurity, is proud to partner with YCL to remove barriers to learning and success for children facing educational disparities. 

About Meals on Wheels People: Meals on Wheels People has been changing lives, one meal at a time, since 1970. We provide more than a meal to thousands of older adults in the greater Portland metro area. Our service not only alleviates hunger and social isolation but allows seniors to live independently with dignity in their own homes. Aging in place reduces depression, falls, and hospitalization as well as the high cost of institutional care. For more information, visit: mowp.org.

About Meals 4 Kids: The Meals 4 Kids program serves qualified children and families within the cities of Portland and Gresham experiencing food insecurity who are also experiencing any of the following: Chronic condition or illness of caregiver or child; lack of facility to prepare meals; lack of ability and/or transportation to access food resources such as food pantries; other barriers impacting access to food resources and/or ability to prepare meals. Meals 4 Kids is funded by the Portland Children’s Levy, community grants and donations.

About Youth Charity League: In 2017, some Portland moms got together with the idea of creating a family-friendly volunteer organization to connect parents, caregivers, and kids to local charities. The goal was to instill a sense of community service and civic responsibility in young children in the most inclusive and easy way possible – by modeling that behavior and engaging in volunteer activities together. For more information, contact Arlene Unverzagt at aunverzagt@youthcharityleague.org or call 415-531-4155.

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Vancouver, Wash. –On June 28, 2022, at approximately 7:39 a.m., Vancouver Police responded to Pearson Field (101 E Reserve) for the report of a plane crash. When emergency personnel from the Vancouver Police Department and Vancouver Fire Department arrived, they located an aircraft on the runway on fire. Vancouver Fire personnel extinguished the fire and confirmed one person inside the aircraft was deceased. The Vancouver Police Department is conducting the death investigation. The identity of the deceased and cause and manner of death will be released from the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office pending notification of next of kin. 

Investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be conducting the investigation related to the crash. 

Nothing further is releasable at this time. 

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Vancouver, Wash. – Neighbors and community members are invited to learn about the upcoming Northeast 152nd Avenue project.

Public Works staff will host a virtual open house from 5 to 6 p.m., Wednesday, June 29, via WebEx. Residents will learn about the project’s design, environmental impacts, and construction timeline from county staff. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and offer comments. To ask questions or make comments during the meeting, registration at https://clark.wa.gov/public-works/ne-152nd-ave  is required. Registrants will receive a confirmation email with a link to join the meeting. Those who do not register can listen in by dialing 1-408-418-9388 and entering meeting number “2489 908 4713” and password “NE152,” when prompted. Callers using this method cannot use the chat function.

Community members are encouraged to email questions to the project manager before the presentation. A recording of the meeting will be available on the project website within three business days.

Improvements of Northeast 152nd Avenue corridor from Northeast Padden Parkway to Northeast 99th Street include two travel lanes, bike lanes, curb, gutter and sidewalks, and stormwater treatment via infiltration. The intersection at Northeast 99th Street will be improved to include left turn lanes and a traffic signal. The project can also accommodate a center-left turn lane at York Elementary School to facilitate traffic flow during the highest volume periods. 

More information can be found on the county’s website https://clark.wa.gov/public-works/ne-152nd-ave.  You can also find real-time information on the Public Works Twitter, Facebook and Instagram profiles, and on NextDoor.

Today's Topic: Summer Safety Tips for Parents and Kids 

Today’s children live in a world of rapidly evolving technology that sometimes even their parents struggle to understand.  Computers, mobile phones, and video games connect our children to the world, but also expose them to hidden dangers. Online predators, identity thieves, and cyber bullies use online gaming platforms, social media, and chat apps to target underage victims.  Summer is here, and the summer break is a time when kids tend to spend more time online where they can be exposed to these hidden dangers.  

Here are some tips for parents and kids this summer: 

Be involved and understand your child’s internet activity.   

Know the devices your child has access to and familiarize yourself with the social media sites, apps, and online games they use to communicate with their friends. Get involved in your kids’ online world to understand what they do online and who they communicate with. Parents should also be aware of their children’s access to the internet outside of the home. 

Set clear rules and closely monitor your child’s online activity.   

Take advantage of free parental control options and designate one place in the home where your children are allowed to access the internet.  

Teach appropriate and safe use of the internet.   

Discuss internet safety with children of all ages when they begin to engage in online activity and use internet enabled devices. The most important messages to teach are simple – many people online are not who they say they are, never communicate with people you don’t know, and be careful about what you share. Some adults use the internet to hide who they are by pretending to be an age-appropriate or relatable friend.   

Teach children to communicate only with people they know in real life – friends they see regularly and trusted relatives.   

Teach good cyber hygiene.  

Start with the basics. Teach children to use strong passwords, choose appropriate screen names, and adjust privacy settings to control who can view their profiles. Parents should also talk to their kids about the dangers of sharing personal information such as their home address, school, or class schedule, and the consequences of posting inappropriate content such revealing photos or videos or making hoax threats.   

It’s never too early to start these conversations.  

These conversations not only warn children about online dangers but can open lines of communication that make it easier for kids to approach their parents without fear of judgment or punishment.   

What should you do if your child does become a victim?  

Do not attempt to take matters into your own hands or communicate with the predator. Immediately contact local police, your local FBI Field Office, or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). Report the issue to the social media platform as well.   

By understanding your child’s internet activity and setting rules and expectations for them, you can help direct your child towards safer internet habits. You can’t always be there when they go online, but you can empower them with the right tools to navigate the Internet safely and avoid dangerous connections. 

Resources  

FBI's Safe Online Surfing (SOS) program   

NetSmartz Online Safety Education Program  

Protecting Your Kids  

Firefighters from Clark County Fire District 6 this morning battled a stubborn fire that started in a large houseless encampement between Highway 99 and I-5, west of the BPA Ross Complex. The blaze appears to have started somewhere inside the camp, and spread quickly to trees and other debris. No information on the actual cause of the fire. There is word of one person suffering non-life-threatening injuries. No firefighters were injured. 

ARCH CAPE, Ore. —The Arch Cape Domestic Water Supply District realized the vision of connecting the community to its drinking-water source with the purchase of roughly 1,500 acres of forestland. The purchase, finalized in June 2022, was made possible with $5.5 million in federal funding and $250,000 in Clatsop County funding. It will establish the publicly owned Arch Cape Forest.

The district finalized the acquisition with the current owner, Ecotrust Forests II LLC, on June 9 for $4.7 million. Purchasing the watershed, which is next to both Oswald West State Park and Cape Falcon Marine Reserve, will permanently protect the source of Arch Cape’s drinking water from the headwaters to the tap. 

“The health and resilience of the surrounding forest directly controls both the quantity     and the quality of our domestic drinking water,” said Phil Chick, District Manager, Arch Cape Domestic Water Supply District. “The acquisition of the forest permits watershed management primarily for the protection of our water, while providing potential conservation, recreation, and economic benefits.”

A healthy forest with diverse streamside vegetation is vital to holding soil in place, preventing erosion, and improving downstream water quality. All of the water consumed in Arch Cape arrives first as rain falling on spruce, hemlock and cedar trees in the upper reaches of the watershed. The headlands rise nearly 3,000 feet in the two miles between the Pacific Ocean and Onion Peak, the second highest peak in Clatsop County and one of the taller peaks in the Oregon Coast Range. Ultimately, this water makes its way down Shark and Asbury creeks to be used as a community drinking water supply. 

Funding for the project came from a variety of sources, including approximately $3.5 million from the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program. Another $2 million came from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) through Business Oregon.

Amy Singh, an administrator with the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Forest Legacy Program, explained that $3.5 million for this purchase came from the USDA Forest Service through its Land and Water Conservation Fund, which supports the nationally competitive Forest Legacy Program. 

“ODF partners with the Forest Service to evaluate worthwhile projects in Oregon where local people want to keep forestlands intact to benefit their community and economy,” said Singh. “Arch Cape is a great example of how the program does that while benefitting the environment and protecting the forested character of the area.”

Business Oregon provided $2 million in funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to help secure the land. North Coast Land Conservancy (NCLC) used the land value of a portion of the Rainforest Reserve as an in-kind match to help meet requirements of the Forest Legacy grants. Remaining match requirements were met by $250,000 from Clatsop County and nearly $300,000 from community contributions.

Attorneys Greg Fullem and Janna Davydova provided legal counsel through the pro-bono program at the Portland-based firm of Schwabe, Williamson, and Wyatt.

A shared vision for the north coast

“Although the Arch Cape Forest and Rainforest Reserve are two unique projects, they have a shared vision: protecting our forest, improving water quality, and sustaining a higher quality of life for the people, plants and wildlife that inhabit the northern Oregon Coast,” said NCLC Executive Director Katie Voelke. 

The Water District will remain the owner of the property and is advised by a community advisory committee. Sustainable Northwest, a regional nonprofit, provided strategic planning and project management to the core group of local volunteers and leaders over the course of the 5-year campaign.

In 2019, representatives of the Water District board, district staff, consultants, and community members with extensive financial and timber industry experience assembled a baseline financial plan that confirmed the feasibility for the purchase and long-term management of the property. 

In 2021, a seven-member community advisory committee voted to adopt a set of forest management policies created through a dialogue with the consulting forester, Springboard Forestry, LLC. Going forward, the community advisory committee will engage the broader public before drafting a 10-year operating plan. 

“The community forest governance model ensures that local people enjoy secure and reliable access to the ecological, social, and economic benefits produced by forests,” said Ben Dair Rothfuss, Conservation Finance Senior Manager for Sustainable Northwest. “The residents and community leaders in Arch Cape volunteered hundreds of hours to make this project possible. We believe that local engagement and ownership will make for a durable and balanced outcome as the community becomes the long-term stewards of the forest.” 

The water district is currently working with NCLC and the Nuveen Natural Capital property management staff at Lewis & Clark Timberlands’ Gearhart office, with support from consulting planners at the NPS Rivers Trails and Conservation Assistance Program, to outline a thoughtful and balanced approach to public access that will allow people to enjoy the natural beauty of the forest while preserving its ecological value. 

A broad public stakeholder engagement process is set to begin in July.

For more information on the Arch Cape Forest, visit www.archcapeforest.org/ and archcapewater.org

Fireworks Regulations, Sales and Discharge
CAMAS, Wash. – In advance of the upcoming summer season, the Camas-Washougal Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding residents that consumer fireworks can only be discharged on July 4 in Camas and Washougal. Additionally, a 2017 ordinance limits fireworks use in Washougal to safe and sane fireworks only.
Any fireworks that fly, explode, or travel more than six feet on the ground or one foot into the air (such as mortars and roman candles) do not fit the definition of safe and sane, and are illegal for use in the city limits of Washougal.
To combat the illegal use of fireworks, fire and police personnel will be patrolling neighborhoods. Camas-Washougal Fire Marshal Ron Schumacher cautions that using illegal fireworks or discharging fireworks outside of legally permitted dates and times may result in a fine and/or confiscation.
“The penalties start at $250 for the first offense, $500 fine for a second offense,” Schumacher said. “There’s $750 fine for a third offense and $1,000 fine for each subsequent offense within a three-year period,” he said.
Fireworks stands in both Camas and Washougal will be open July 2- July 4 from 9 a.m. – 11 p.m., and in Camas again on July 5 from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. The Fire Marshal’s office has provided these safety tips to ensure everyone can enjoy their legal fireworks in a safe manner:
• Be courteous and let neighbors known when you plan to use the fireworks
• Be prepared in case of fire and have a pre-connected garden hose on-hand
• Use fireworks on flat, hard surfaces away from buildings, vehicles, dry brush and bystanders
• Place discharged fireworks in a bucket full of water overnight
• Closely supervise children and pets and do not let children ignite fireworks
• Beware of sparklers, as they can cause serious burns or catch clothes on fire
• Clean up any trash left behind by fireworks
Schumacher also cautions residents to be aware of summer weather conditions and reminds those who chose to discharge fireworks to be vigilant with fireworks safety.

See attached PDF for more information.

At about 1345 hours of June 26, 2022 Sergeant Rob Stumph with the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office was traveling on Maple St in Kelso, Washington when he saw a subject he recognized as Dakota Carras sitting in a vehicle.  Carras, age 29, had outstanding warrants for his arrest. 

Sergeant Stumph activated his emergency lights and gave Carras commands to exit the vehicle.  A female standing near the car also told Carras to get out of the vehicle several times.  She told Sergeant Stumph that her children were inside the car.  Carras then fled in the vehicle.  The female subject stated that she was dating Carras, but he was not the children’s father and he did not have permission to take her children.  The female subject was also the owner of the vehicle.

Sergeant Stumph relayed this information to responding units and learned via radio that Clark County Sheriff’s Office held probable cause to arrest Carras for Robbery and Kidnapping (unrelated to this incident). Deputies and officers pursued Carras as he drove recklessly through the Lexington and Columbia Heights areas at speeds up to 90 miles per hour before he crossed the Rainier Bridge into Oregon. 

Washington and Oregon law enforcement officers pursued Carras until he was taken into custody near Knappa, Oregon.  The children, a 5-year-old and a 22-month-old, were returned to their mother unharmed.  Carras was booked into Columbia County Jail on his outstanding warrants.

The Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office is requesting charges against Dakota Carras for Kidnapping 1^st Degree – 2 counts, Reckless Endangerment – 2 counts, and Attempt to Elude a Law Enforcement Officer. 

Update on 6/27/22:

On Monday, June 27, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit and Dive Team performed additional searches for the swimmer that went missing on Sunday evening near the western edge of Lemon Island in the Columbia River. The Dive Team performed numerous dives and searched a very large area in the approximate location of where the swimmer was last seen. Unfortunately, the swimmer’s body was not located.

The swimmer is identified as 35-year-old Kevin McDowell, of Portland. McDowell reportedly jumped into the river from a boat to help a struggling swimmer and did not resurface shortly after.

Today, the divers reported challenging conditions, with limited underwater visibility and strong currents. Marine deputies will perform additional searches when call volume allows in the coming days.

Image description: Multnomah County Sheriff's Office diver prepares to enter the river

Original press release on June 26, 2022:

Around 5:15 p.m., on June 26, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office River Patrol Unit deputies responded to a report of a missing swimmer near the west end of Lemon Island in the Columbia River. Witnesses reported that the man did not resurface after jumping into the water from a boat to help a woman in the water, who was struggling to swim. The woman was able to get to safety.

Firefighters from Portland Fire & Rescue and the Port of Portland Fire Department also responded in rescue boats and helped deputies perform a series of searches that included using underwater scanning technology. A U.S Coast Guard helicopter joined the search efforts as well.

Unfortunately, after an extensive search, the swimmer was not located. It is presumed the man drowned. It was reported that he was not wearing a life jacket.

The man’s identity is being withheld until next of kin notifications are complete.

There is no further information to provide at this time.

Image description: Portland Fire & Rescue boat searching the river.

Monday, June 27, 2022-Woodland, WA-The staff of Woodland Public Schools works hard to ensure Woodland’s students have the opportunities they need to recover learning that may have been lost due to the constraints of the pandemic including remote learning.

Woodland’s schools were the first in the area to return students to in-person learning following the pandemic lockdown. “Our district was the first in the area to return elementary students to full-week in-person learning and the first to return all grades K-12 to in-person learning on a hybrid schedule,” said Superintendent Michael Green. “Those incredible milestones result from the collaborative culture and can-do spirit of our amazing staff who do everything they can to ensure the most effective student learning takes place in our schools.”

Many students continue to struggle to catch up as a result of the effects of remote learning during the pandemic. As a result, Woodland’s schools have taken efforts to provide additional learning for students who need help.

Targeted small-group learning for those in need

At the elementary level, teachers have developed targeted small-group workshops in both reading and math to provide a boost for students in need. At Woodland Middle School, students significantly below their grade’s reading level have been invited to take part in special tutoring sessions. Teachers at Woodland High School provide additional tutoring in small groups as well as support through the school’s successful Positive Academic Support System (PASS) which provides struggling students with dedicated mentors to help them stay on top of their studies.

Summer school offers high school students the chance to recover lost credits

At the elementary level, teachers have developed targeted small-group workshops in both reading and math to provide a boost for students in need. A summer school program was introduced with students selected based on academic progress. “We began inviting all current kindergarten students who needed additional support with reading and math skills,” explained Malinda Huddleston, Teaching & Learning Specialist for Woodland Public Schools. Then, we invited first grade students with a similar profile as well as students with learning needs who did not meet their goals this year.”

The summer session is running from June 21 through July 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., equivalent to a half-day of school, five days a week. Students will be taught in small groups of five students. “We will use a direct instruction approach with an emphasis on skill mastery,” said Huddleston. “Reading will focus on phonemic awareness and decoding, and the math instruction will focus on foundation skills such as number sense.”

By using smaller groups, students will have multiple opportunities to practice new skills in an environment that provides immediate feedback, intervention assistance, and offers the opportunity to celebrate success. “Target instruction benefits students who need additional support because the skills being taught are being customized to each individual students’ weakness areas,” said Huddleston.

In order to engage students further, students will take part in fun activities including snack time, recess, and group read-alouds. “Students will also set goals, receive feedback on their progress, and celebrate their success,” said Huddleston. “Learning should be fun, and that can be accomplished when students set goals, work hard to achieve them, and then get to celebrate their success with their classmates.”

At Woodland Middle School, students significantly below their grade’s reading level have been invited to take part in special tutoring sessions. Teachers at Woodland High School provide additional tutoring in small groups as well as support through the school’s successful Positive Academic Support System (PASS) which provides struggling students with dedicated mentors to help them stay on top of their studies.

Special help for English Language Learners (ELL)

Woodland also takes special care to address specific learning challenges presented to particular groups such as English Language Learners (ELL), students whose native language isn’t English who were particularly negatively affected by remote learning. “Many of our Spanish-speaking families did not have experience working with Chromebooks and often did not have access to quality broadband internet access,” explained Malinda Huddleston, Teaching & Learning Specialist for Woodland Public Schools. “By targeting these students in need, we can provide them with the additional intervention they need to catch up with their grade-level peers.”

Incoming 5^th through 7^th grade ELL students at Woodland Middle School will be invited to attend a summer school session which will provide extra support in English, Science, and Math. Like the high school summer session, transportation and meals, including breakfast and lunch, will be provided.

Upgraded heating and cooling systems will provide healthier learning

Scientific research has demonstrated that one of the most effective methods for decreasing the spread of COVID and other airborne diseases is to improve airflow and air quality. In order to accomplish this, improvements had to be made to each school’s Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems.

At Woodland Public Schools, HVAC improvements will be implemented at every single school building to ensure that clean, filtered air circulates quickly throughout classrooms in order to prevent the spread of any disease which can pass in an aerosol form. “The COVID-19 pandemic certainly demonstrated the importance of clean hygiene on every level from the thorough deep cleaning of all buildings to every individual following proper hand-washing protocols,” said Green. “Our facilities staff have taken great steps to ensure our HVAC systems work effectively to keep our staff and students healthy in every learning environment.”

Woodland’s Summer Meal Program returns for 2022

Woodland Public Schools will once again provide meals to any child 18 years old or younger throughout summer starting Tuesday, June 21, the day after the last day of school, and running Monday to Friday through Friday, August 19, the last weekday before the new school year.

While there will be no options for meal pickups this year, children can eat breakfast and lunch free-of-charge Monday through Friday at the Woodland Middle School cafeteria located at 755 Park Street, Woodland, WA 98674. Breakfast will be served from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The program will be closed on July 4 and 5 for the Independence Day holiday.

Learn more about how Woodland Public Schools educates our students and serves the community, by visiting our dedicated news webpage at www.woodlandschools.org/news/wsd

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June 27, 2022

Elisabeth.Shepard@mcda.us

Elisabeth Shepard, Communications Director

DA Mike Schmidt announces arraignment of Keffer White, 29, for attempted murder, assault 

PORTLAND, Oregon – Today Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt announced that Keffer James White, 29, was arraigned on four counts including two counts of Attempted Murder in the First Degree, one count of Assault in the First Degree, and one count of Assault in the Second Degree. 

The charges stem from an incident on the evening of Saturday, June 25. A group of people were waiting for the bus in the area of Southwest 5th Avenue and Southwest Hall Street. Witness reports and video surveillance allege that White approached the group and began talking to them. When they did not respond, he began to yell and made fun of them for being elderly. White became increasingly aggressive. He approached one man in the group, Edward Lichenstein, 88, and began attacking him, including headbutting him and shoving him to the ground. 

White then turned to another person in the group, Donald Pierce, 83, who was holding a cane for balance, and pushed him into the street and on to the ground. Once on the ground White kicked Pierce in the head and face area several times. White subsequently continued attacking Lichtenstein who was attempting to get away. Pierce also attempted to get up and White returned and attacked him again by kicking him in his head. 

Portland Police officers were in the area of the attack on an unrelated call when they heard screaming and approached the bus stop where the attack took place. The officers rendered aid to the victims and arrested White based on a witness report that White was responsible for the attack. Lichenstein and Pierce are currently in critical condition at an area hospital. 

Witnesses reported that White stated he was going to kill the victims during the attack. White is currently in custody without bail.  

A charging document is only an accusation of a crime. White is innocent unless and until proven guilty.

#MCDA#

Being prepared, safe, and responsible is key to a fun and worry-free 4th of July celebration. Fireworks regulations in the City of Battle Ground allows residents to use fireworks for two days over the Independence Day Holiday – July 3 from 9 a.m. - 11 p.m. and July 4 from 9 a.m. - midnight. 

Fireworks stands are permitted to operate in the City from July 1 through July 4. Permitted stands are regularly inspected by the Fire Marshal.  Fireworks should only be purchased from permitted stands; those purchased outside of the City or Clark County’s jurisdictions may not be safe or legal to use.

Regulations for the sale and use of fireworks vary in individual municipalities within Clark County, including unincorporated Battle Ground.  An online interactive map allows the public to easily determine fireworks use regulations based on any street address within Clark County.

Fireworks Call Center
CRESA will staff a fireworks and nuisance call center from July 2 - 4; 8pm - 1am.  Callers should refrain from calling 911 and/or 311 for fireworks violations. 

Only call 911 if: 

• Someone is injured from a firework.
• There is a fire started by a firework.
• You witness someone attempting to start a fire with a firework.
• You witness someone assaulting someone with a firework.

Otherwise, the Firework Call Center can be reached at 360-597-7888.

Be Prepared before lighting any firework:

• Know the fireworks law in your area.
• Purchase only legal fireworks, available at Washington State licensed stands.
• Ensure the safety of pets and keep them secured; the loud sounds make them nervous. 
• Have a bucket of water nearby in which to place all used fireworks.
• Keep a water hose or fire extinguisher nearby to put out stray sparks.
• Clear a level area away from things that can burn.
• Teach your children to “stop, drop, and roll” if their clothes catch on fire.

Be Safe when fireworks are being lit:

• Use only outdoors on a level, flat, hard surface.
• Only adults should light fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.
• Do not lean over fireworks when lighting them.
• Keep spectators at a safe distance (recommend 20 feet from fireworks).
• Keep away from anything that can burn.
• Follow the directions on the label carefully.
• Be considerate of your neighbors, family pets, and your environment.
• Follow the time restrictions for discharge.

Be Responsible after the fireworks are done:

• Clean up all debris when finished.
• Duds can be dangerous; if a firework item does not light or fire, an adult should wait at least fifteen minutes, approach it carefully, and place it in a bucket of water.
• Make sure unused fireworks, matches, and lighters are out of sight and reach of children.
• Before throwing away any used fireworks, make sure they are cold. Soaking in a bucket of water for at least 10 minutes before placing the fireworks in a plastic garbage bag will ensure they won’t catch anything on fire.

“The use of fireworks can lead to unintended injuries and fires,” said Battle Ground Fire Marshal Chris Drone, “It is important that you use every safety measure if choosing to use fireworks”

We think Independence Day is worth celebrating. If you celebrate with fireworks, do so safely. Know the regulations in your area, be prepared with a safety plan, and be respectful of your neighbors and surroundings.  City of Battle Ground fireworks regulations and a Fireworks Safety Plan are available on the City’s website at www.cityofbg.org/fireworks.
 

In response to a dramatic increase in stolen vehicles in Clark County in the last 12 months, the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Clark County Jail and the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, conducted a high intensity Stolen Vehicle Emphasis for several days over the last few weeks.  This emphasis was conducted despite record staffing shortages in the Jail and the Enforcement Branches. 

The focus of the emphasis was to locate and arrest individuals who were in possession of stolen vehicles, recover the vehicles, book the individuals into jail and ensure that they were charged for these crimes.  This emphasis would not have been possible without the cooperation of the entire jail staff,  the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the dedicated deputies of the Clark County Sheriff’s Office.  During the course of the emphasis, some assistance was provided from regional partners such as the Vancouver Police and Portland Police Bureau.

At one point during this emphasis, detectives located a vehicle with multiple occupants in the parking lot of a retail store in Hazel Dell.  As detectives watched, one person exited the vehicle and stole a vehicle parked in the next spot.  When sufficient resources were obtained both vehicles were stopped and all of the occupants were detained.  Several arrests were made and the vehicle was returned to its owner within 30 minutes.  

In addition to this example, the emphasis had the following results:
• 18 Stolen Vehicles Recovered
• 32 Arrests
• 46 Total New Charges
• 17 Warrants Cleared
• 1 Firearm Seized

The Sheriff’s Office recognizes the impact that the dramatic increase in crime has had on the families that live and work here in Clark County.  We will continue to make every effort to hold criminals accountable every day of the year and, when staffing and resources allow, will continue to conduct these kinds of operations with the goal of reducing crime and increasing livability here in Clark County.

Portland, OR — The Oregon Historical Society (OHS) is proud to announce that 46 middle and high school students from across the state of Oregon participated in this year’s virtual National History Day® (NHD) contest, presenting individual or group projects in one of five categories: documentary, exhibit, paper, performance, or website. Four Oregon entries made it to the Finals Round and ranked among the top 10 in the nation, with two projects placing second and third in their categories. These high-quality entries advanced to compete against more than 2,700 students from across the country after placing first or second in the virtual Oregon History Day contest.

Longtime NHD participant Anja Jolin, a senior at St. Mary’s Academy, placed second in the nation for her senior paper, “Delegitimizing Diplomacy: The Berlin West Africa Conference.” Having competed in NHD since 8th grade, this paper is the capstone of an incredibly impressive career in the contest, with previous projects winning the national affiliate awards for Oregon and placing as high as 8th in the nation. Jolin has used her NHD projects to explore a wide variety of topics over the years, including South Africa’s transition to democracy, policewomen breaking barriers in Portland, and the legal impacts of the Berhanu v. Metzger trial. 

For her 2022 paper, Jolin found that “primary sources from the African perspective were particularly difficult to find because of limited written documentation from this time period and the destruction of historical artifacts that occurred under European colonial systems.” She therefore “relied on primary source quotes and excerpts contained within secondary sources” and was able to successfully make the “historical argument . . . that under the guise of diplomacy, European leaders at the Berlin Conference established rules for the occupation of Africa that ignored the rights and interests of Africans. The resulting partition of Africa into European-controlled colonies left a legacy of economic and political instability that persists to this day.”

Sunset High School freshman Jasper Gu’s senior individual exhibit, The Orphan Drug Act: How Debate and Diplomacy Improved Healthcare for Orphan Disease Patients, placed third in the nation after having previously finished second at this year’s Oregon History Day contest. Gu’s exhibit was exceptional in that he interviewed Henry Waxman, the congressman credited with creating the Orphan Drug Act who was the chair of the Health and Environment Subcommittee at the time (1983). Gu first competed in History Day as a middle school student with his exhibit Rosalind Franklin: The Discovery of DNA’s Structure and the Impact on Women in STEM. Judges remarked that they learned a lot from his 2022 National History Day project and that he used a “great application of data to illustrate [the] points being made.” 

Three additional entries also earned special awards for their excellent work. McKenzie Rose of Echo School was honored by the National Museum of American History for the second consecutive year by having her senior individual exhibit, The Debatable Trent Affair: How Strategic Diplomacy Prevented War, included in the Smithsonian Learning Lab’s virtual showcase. One student project is nominated by the state coordinator for this honor, and Rose’s project stood out thanks to her thorough research and excellent design. Her exhibit was also honored with the United States Naval and Maritime History: Preserve, Promote, and Celebrate Award for Oregon this year.

The ACCESS Academy team of Alexa Buckley, Franka Gronke, Hazel Miranda Zellnik, Jolee Ray, and Fiona Snyder and Helix School’s MayaBella Texior earned the Outstanding Affiliate Award at the junior and senior level respectively. Both projects placed among the top ten in the nation and were created by students who were participating in History Day for the first time. In the award-winning junior group performance, The 1912 Oregon Suffrage Vote: How Tactics Make and Break Debates, the students argued that a major factor in the success of the Oregon suffrage movement was the mass advertising campaigns deployed to promote the movement. One judge at the national contest noted of Texidor’s senior individual documentary, EXCOMM: The Internal Debates of Kennedy's Secret Council, “that this documentary was your first attempt at video-making is astonishing to me. I sincerely hope it won’t be your last.” Judges also commended Texidor for focusing her project on EXCOMM, rather than the larger Cuban Missile Crisis. 

“Each year, we are inspired by students’ History Day projects, which continue to show us that there are no limits to the questions we can ask of the past and the insights we can gain from exploring those questions,” said Eliza E. Canty-Jones, OHS Chief Program Officer.

OHS is proud of the hard work and countless hours these students and their teachers spent on these projects and wish to congratulate them along with all the students who participated in the Oregon History Day program this year. A big thank you to the Oregon volunteer judges as well for their excellent input, which helped students improve their projects ahead of their national debut. OHS is eager to see what students create for next year’s contest around the theme “Frontiers in History: People, Places, Ideas.”

About Oregon History Day:

Oregon History Day, part of National History Day^®, is a renowned, evidence-based middle and high school program. Facilitated by the Oregon Historical Society, this culturally responsive program invites students to interpret a historical event that connects to the annual theme by creating a website, paper, performance, exhibit, or documentary.

Oregon History Day is a highly adaptable program. Students can select their own topic to research, or teachers can choose a broad category to guide their students’ projects. With the assistance of educators, librarians, and online resources, students analyze primary and secondary sources to develop and support their thesis. Creating an Oregon History Day project is immensely rewarding for students, many of whom participate over consecutive years. Oregon History Day meets the state standards in multiple subjects and can support the teaching of standards related to Ethnic Studies, Tribal History / Shared History, and Holocaust and Genocide education.

Educators are encouraged to contact the Oregon Historical Society by emailing y.day@ohs.org">history.day@ohs.org if they are interested in bringing this program to their classroom. For more information on National History Day®, visit www.nhd.org.

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. 

UPDATE (6/27/22): The suspicious death Tigard Police responded to yesterday is now considered a homicide investigation.

Officers were called to the Just Compassion Resource Center, which provides services to people experiencing houselessness, just before 1 PM on Sunday. Arriving officers found a man dead in a backyard area of the property. 

The victim in this case is William Edward Mayberry, age 53. Investigators believe Mr. Mayberry was killed by Harrison Douglas-Myles McBride, age 26. Both men have ties to the property and Mr. McBride had recently been trespassed.

Mr. McBride has been taken to the Washington County Jail charged with second-degree murder. He is also facing additional charges for unrelated probation violations.

No information about potential motive is available at this time.

ORIGINAL (6/26/22): Tigard Police are on the scene of a suspicious death investigation.

At 12:49pm officers were called to the 12200 block of SW Hall Blvd. Arriving officers found an adult man deceased. His death is considered suspicious and a person of interest is being interviewed by police. There is no ongoing threat to the community in connection with this investigation.

Investigators are talking to witnesses and processing the scene. An update should be available tomorrow.

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DATE: Tuesday, June 28, 2022

TIME: 5:00 Budget Hearing & 6:00 Regular Meeting

LOCATION: Hockinson High School Library

ADDRESS: 16819 NE 159th St, Brush Prairie, WA 98606

On June 27, 2022, at approximately 6:45 A.M., A semi-truck with a crane boom and a flatbed trailer was traveling eastbound on I-84 near milepost 42 when a tire blew. The truck, operated by Marvin Klopfenstein (37), plowed through the cement barrier into the east-bound lane where it jackknifed and rolled onto its side. The truck slid on the cement barrier and caught on fire. The driver escaped with only minor injuries.

I-84 remains closed in both directions. The Oregon Department of Transportation is diligently working with Gerlock towing and US Ecology on the cleanup. An estimated 200 gallons of fuel, oil, and antifreeze came from the vehicle. The pavement was gouged in places that will need to be repaired before the highway re-opening.

OSP was assisted by Multnomah County Sheriff’s office, ODOT, Cascade Locks Fire, Gerlock Towing, and Purdy’s towing. US Ecology responded for environmental cleanup.

For information regarding the highway reopening, visit www.tripcheck.com  

Providing a new way to get out into nature for people with mobility challenges, David’s Chair Outdoor Mobility Systems, American Legion Post 158 and Oregon Parks Forever are collaborating to bring the first of 10 additional locations where mobility challenged visitors can pick up and use an electric all-terrain wheelchair.

Starting July 1, a chair and trailer will be housed at American Legion Post 158 at 8635 Scoffins St., Tigard, OR and can be reserved through davidschair.org.

These chairs will provide a new freedom for a mobility challenged park visitor - to get off the pavement and out into nature.

With increased accessibility to trails, lakes, rivers and beaches, through demanding conditions like sand, snow and mud, mobility-impaired visitors will be able to participate in activities never-before possible.

From birdwatching and fishing, to riding along the beach, to simply enjoying the fresh air and solitude of nature, these all-terrain chairs will invite many new people to share the wonders of the great outdoors in our parks.

Anyone with mobility impairment, requiring the assistance of wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, canes or crutches, will be able to use these chairs.

See these chairs in action at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4KIrqu47WY

See a video testimonial here: 

Over the next couple of years, the partners are working to locate hosts at American Legion, VFW and Tourism related entities along the Oregon Coast and the I-5 corridor where a chair and trailer can be stored and made available for free use by visitors with mobility challenges. 

We are doing this to provide easier access to these chairs to a wider number of people.  Under the current operating model for David’s Chair, anyone wishing to borrow one of their seven current chairs (for free) must bring a trailer hitch-enabled vehicle to Medford and pick up a chair and trailer to take where they would like to use it.  This severely limits access to other parts of the state.  One of the most popular uses for these chairs is to get out on the beach, hence our desire for host locations along the Oregon Coast.  Also, there are many parks in areas such as Springfield, Eugene, Salem and Portland along the I-5 corridor that visitors would like to access.

Reservations for free use can be made at: www.davidschair.org.  In order to maintain availability, chairs may only be reserved for no more than two days at a time.

A media event will be hosted by David’s Chair on Friday, July 1^st at Champoeg State Heritage Area, south of Wilsonville from 10:30am to 1:00 PM at the Townsite Day Use Area.  David’s Chair CEO Steve Furst and American Legion Commander-elect Allyson Kropf will be available there for interviews and demonstration of the chair that will be housed in Tigard. Please contact us in advance to schedule a time to give you special attention

Signature fundraiser helps support Museum educational programs

BEND, OR — For the first time since 2019, the High Desert Museum’s signature fundraiser, High Desert Rendezvous, will take place in person at the Museum on Saturday, August 27 from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm. This marks the 33^rd year of the High Desert Rendezvous, making it one of the longest-running fundraisers in Central Oregon.

“Returning in person after two years makes this a very special High Desert Rendezvous,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “We will gather together again, celebrate the Museum’s 40^th anniversary and the accomplishments of the past year, and raise a glass to our generous community.”

In addition to dinner, a raffle and entertainment, Rendezvous is also a chance to bid on art by traditional and contemporary artists in the juried exhibition and silent auction Art in the West, which opens at the Museum on Saturday, July 23. A gallery guide of the artwork in the exhibition will be available on the Museum’s website on July 18 at highdesertmuseum.org/aiw.

An individual ticket for Rendezvous is $150 for members and $200 for nonmembers, and for a couple the event costs $300 for members and $350 for nonmembers. Sponsorship tables are available for parties of eight or 10. A list of sponsor benefits including VIP perks and community recognition can be viewed at highdesertmuseum.org/hdr. 

The 2022 Rendezvous Honoree is Cameron Kerr. The wife of Museum founder Don Kerr and a self-described “lifetime volunteer,” she has been an active and stalwart supporter since the institution opened in 1982. Today, she is a Museum Trustee and Collections 

Committee Chair, and she can be seen regularly in the Museum’s collections department helping volunteers and supporting staff. 

“Cameron is a treasured friend of the Museum and a meaningful Honoree for our 40^th year,” Whitelaw said. “She has supported the staff, volunteers and visitors since the very beginning and through four decades of growth.”

This year’s High Desert Rendezvous silent auction will take place online. It’s packed with luxurious items and one-of-a-kind experiences, from wine tastings in California to stays at your favorite Central Oregon resorts. Online bidding opens Friday, August 19 and ends on Monday, August 29. 

We are grateful to all the generous businesses and organizations that donate items and experiences to our silent auction. Those interested in donating items to be featured in the High Desert Rendezvous silent auction may contact Senior Donor Relations Manager Megan Kantrim at im@highdesertmuseum.org">mkantrim@highdesertmuseum.org or call 541-382-4754 ext. 332. 

The High Desert Rendezvous helps support the Museum’s educational programs, ensuring the Museum continues to be a place where people and the landscape thrive together.

The 33^rd annual High Desert Rendezvous is presented by First Interstate Bank. 

Learn more about and register for the High Desert Rendezvous at highdesertmuseum.org/hdr. 

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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Vancouver, WA – A benefit concert featuring Doug Smith, Grammy award winner and US National Fingerstyle Champion, along with Shohei Toyoda, Japan’s National Finger-Picking Champion, will be held Sat., July 2, 5-7 p.m., at Vancouver United Church of Christ, 1220 NE 68th Street. 

A $20 suggested donation includes complimentary light food & beverages for the two-hour indoor concert. Donations will benefit both Friends of the Carpenter and Vancouver United Church of Christ. Call or text Harry Smith (360) 768-6454 to RSVP; seating is limited.

Acoustic Guitarist Doug Smith is a Grammy award winner and the 2006 winner of the prestigious Winfield International Fingerstyle Guitar Competition. Smith’s playing has been heard on the big screen in the popular 2007 film August Rush and his original compositions are heard everywhere from NPR to TCM to Martha Stewart to Good Morning America. His playing combines folk, classical and jazz elements and has been called “a cross between Chet Atkins, Leo Kottke and Michael Hedges.”

Shohei Toyoda was born in Japan and raised in Dublin, Ohio. He moved to Boston in 2004 to further pursue his musical education at Berklee College of Music. In December 2010, Toyoda released his first solo instrumental album, “The Hills Have Ears.” He currently resides in Kyoto, Japan, working as a performing guitarist all over the country.  

About Friends of the Carpenter

Friends of the Carpenter was incorporated in Vancouver, WA in Oct. 1998 and began as a vision of a practical outreach of simple welcome and personal interaction between volunteers from the church and people living in poverty. Since the beginning, regular contact has been made with vulnerable members of our community through woodworking events scheduled around the area and which, today, are mostly held at FOC’s Friendship Center. Our mission: Friends of the Carpenter is a non-profit, faith-based day facility that provides safety, structure and purpose for vulnerable members of our community. Learn more at friendsofthecarpenter.org.

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Vancouver, Wash. – Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (VPRCS) will host a free park naming celebration at 7 p.m. Friday, July 15 at Nikkei Neighborhood Park (N.E. 52^nd St. and N.E. 137^th Ave.). The event will feature Japanese storytelling by Alton Takiyama-Chung, a performance from Portland Taiko and live music from the Minidoka Swing Band.

A committee comprised of Vancouver residents and VPRCS staff researched a broad range of potential park names that would highlight the history of Vancouver. The committee narrowed the list to three options and the final name was selected by neighbors who live near the park through an online poll. The new park’s name was adopted by Vancouver City Council on Sept. 27, 2021, but a celebration was put on hold due to COVID-19.

Nikkei is a Japanese word used to identify the community of Japanese emigrants and their descendants. The name Nikkei Park was chosen to honor the Japanese American truck farmers who grew crops in the early 1900s in the area where the park is now located. Truck farmers were a vital part of the local food supply. By 1930, 47% of truck farmers in Clark County were Japanese American. 

During World War II, Vancouver's Japanese American farmers were forcibly removed from their homes and sent to "internment" prison camps. Of the 19 Japanese American households on record in Clark County in 1940, only one moved back after release from the prison camps. That family was required to buy their land back from its caretaker and start over from scratch. 

Selecting the name Nikkei Park is a way to remember the families that experienced this great injustice and honor their legacy with a place that is filled with beauty, joy and a sense of belonging. Watch a video highlighting the history of Japanese truck farmers.

Parking is limited and free overflow parking is available at nearby Image Elementary School (5201 NE 131st Ave.). Carpooling, ridesharing, and biking is also recommended where possible. Immediately following the naming celebration, the park will host a free screening of the animated film “Sing 2.” Attendees are encouraged to pack a picnic and spend the evening enjoying the beauty of Nikkei Park.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is accepting applications from local organizations for grants that encourage historic preservation and programs, including preservation of historic documents.

The Historical Promotion Grants program is designed to increase awareness and education to better preserve, exhibit, and/or interpret local history and historic preservation.

Applicants must be either a non-profit organization or public entity within the boundaries of Clark County that promotes our local history. Applicants also must either operate or own a museum or similar historical institution or perform educative, interpretive, or similar activities.

Applications, grant guidelines, and other information are available online at www.clark.wa.gov/community-planning/historical-promotion-grants-program or by emailing icpreservation@clark.wa.gov">historicpreservation@clark.wa.gov.

The deadline for submitting completed applications is 5 pm, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022.

The Historic Preservation Commission will review applications in the fall and submit recommendations to the County Council in November. Grants will be awarded in December and grant funds will be available in January 2023.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A former Portland attorney pleaded guilty today to multiple felony charges after perpetrating a scheme to defraud her clients and use the proceeds to pay for personal expenses.

Lori E. Deveny, 56, pleaded guilty to mail, bank, and wire fraud; aggravated identity theft; money laundering; and filing a false tax return.

According to court documents, between April 2011 and May 2019, Deveny systematically stole funds she held in trust for her clients. The funds were derived from insurance proceeds due and payable to her clients. Deveny is accused of forging client signatures on settlement documents she sent to various insurance companies, making unauthorized transfers of funds to personal accounts and falsely telling clients that the insurance companies were to blame for delays in settling claims. Many of Deveny’s clients never received the insurance payout they were owed.

Deveny used the proceeds of her scheme to pay for personal credit card and loan payments, numerous big game hunting trips to Africa and the resulting taxidermy costs, other vacations, her husband’s photography business, home remodeling, expensive cigars and other expenses associated with a lavish lifestyle.

On May 7, 2019, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 24-count indictment charging Deveny with mail, bank, and wire fraud; aggravated identity theft; money laundering; and filing a false tax return.

Deveny will be sentenced on November 23, 2022, before U.S. District Court Judge Michael W. Mosman. 

As part of her plea agreement, Deveny has also agreed to pay restitution in full to her victims as determined by the government and ordered by the court.

Mail and wire fraud are punishable by up to 20 years in prison and money laundering is punishable by up to 10 years. All three offenses carry maximum fines of $250,000 or twice the gross gains or losses resulting from the offense and three years’ supervised release. Bank fraud is punishable by up to 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine, and five years’ supervised release. Filing a false tax return is punishable by up to three years in prison, a $250,000 fine or twice the gross gains or losses resulting from the offense, and one year of supervised released. Aggravated identity theft is punishable by up to two years in prison running consecutive to any other carceral sentence imposed.

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

This case was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and the FBI and is being prosecuted by Claire M. Fay, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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[PORTLAND, ORE.] The Portland Business Alliance and Downtown Portland are proud to sponsor the Waterfront Blues Festival, downtown Portland's largest and longest-running music festival, celebrating its 35th anniversary! The COVID-19 pandemic paused this beloved Festival for the past two years. However, we are pleased to see the Festival return to Tom McCall Waterfront Park during the Fourth of July weekend, July 1-4, 2022.  

The 2022 Festival format will have a total of four stages in addition to the return of Oregon's largest July 4th fireworks display, Blues Cruises!   

This year, the Festival is bringing 100+ world-class blues, soul, funk, and R&B artists into the heart of Downtown Portland with celebrated headliners that include: Grammy-award-winning Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band; soulful folk heroes The Wood Brothers; New Orleans legends Galactic, featuring Anjelika Jelly Joseph; international superstar Femi Kuti & The Positive Force; genre-busting funk band Lettuce; powerhouse soul duo The War and Treaty; and more.  

"Whether it's what you're seeing on-stage with legendary performers who've defined the genre alongside up-and-comers who continue to push it forward, or in the crowd with fans who came to the festival when they were kids who are now bringing their children- the entire weekend is a true celebration of the genre and everything it influences."- Peter Dammann, Artistic Director, Waterfront Blues Festival.  

We look forward to seeing you at the Waterfront this coming Fourth of July weekend! 

About Waterfront Blues Festival: Waterfront Blues Festival is downtown Portland’s largest and longest-running music festival and one of the most renowned celebrations of the blues in the world. 2022 marks the 35th anniversary of the festival and a jubilant return to downtown Portland’s Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Since 1988, Waterfront Blues Festival has welcomed over 2,000 acts, garnered international acclaim, and raised over $10 million dollars to support local community organizations. The festival continues to build upon a longstanding legacy and fanbase while also welcoming new artists and audiences by bringing the most exciting and dynamic blues, soul, funk and R&B artists to the stage for a can’t-miss Fourth of July Weekend. Learn more at http://www.waterfrontbluesfest.com/ and @waterfrontblues.  

About Downtown Portland: The Downtown Marketing Initiative is a program of the Portland Business Alliance, Greater Portland’s Chamber of Commerce, that promotes Downtown Portland to the greater Portland metro region. Marketing programs include holiday promotional efforts, robust social media messaging, events and programming, seasonal cooperative retail and restaurant promotions, and public relations campaigns to promote Downtown businesses. Downtown businesses may participate in the program at no charge. Visit DowntownPortland.org for more information. 

On June 26, 2022 at approximately 9:23 PM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 99E at SE Jennings Avenue in Milwaukie. 

Preliminary investigation revealed a northbound red Harley Davidson, operated by James Sheehan (57) of Portland, collided with a southbound silver Mazda MZ3, operated by David Norby (76) of Oregon City, that was turning left across traffic.  

Sheehan sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. Norby was uninjured. 

OSP was assisted by Gladstone Police Department, Clackamas Fire Department, AMR and ODOT. 

On Jun 26 , 2022 at approximately 10:05 PM deputies and emergency personnel responded to a single vehicle crash involving a pedestrian at the 4000 block of Lancaster and Ibex. Arriving responders located the pedestrian who was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

This area of Lancaster was closed for approximately 4 hours while members of the Marion County Sherriff's Office CRASH team conducted an investigation. 

The identity of the male pedestrian is not being released at this time pending notification of next of kin.

The 19 year old male driver remained on scene; no citations or arrests have been made at this time.     

Investigators are asking anyone who may have information about the crash to call our non-emergency number at 503-588-5032

You’ve probably grown so accustomed to seeing fire hydrants in your neighborhood you take them for granted. 

It’s a different story for rural homeowners. They’re likely quite aware of the lack of fire hydrants, and not just because of the greater challenge of fighting fire.  You see, rural areas without fire hydrants pay more for residential fire insurance.

In Washington State, insurance companies depend on Protection Class Ratings from the Washington State Survey and Ratings Bureau to determine fire insurance rates.  It’s kind of like the game of golf—the lower score the better. In this case, the lower the rating the potential for a lower the premium. Clark County District 6 has a WSRB rating of “3”, and that’s considered to be a very good rating.  However, in the upper northwest quadrant of our District—where there are no hydrants, homeowners face a Protection Class 7 or 8A, which costs them an estimated $500 dollars more a year in insurance premiums than most ratepayers.

We’ve worked hard to change those numbers and address the community risk.

Clark County Fire District 6 solicited an agreement with our neighbor to the north to lower those insurance rates.  Under a working agreement Clark Cowltiz Fire Rescue would agree to respond a water-tender to those rural areas. A tender is basically a very large water tank on wheels that provides water to fire engines and substitutes for a fire hydrant.  We recently tested the combination of tender and Fire District 6 engines with WSRB and they passed the testing requirements.

This process is now certified, and we urge community members to send the WSRB Certification Letter to their homeowners insurance companies to see the reduction in cost. We estimate this change will save 900 people in 340 residences an average of $500 annually. 

“District 6 is continually looking to reduce WSRB ratings to benefit our citizens,” says CCFD6 Fire Chief, Kristan Maurer. “It is important to us to reduce the financial impact of those who live in District boundaries while providing the best service and ensuring safety.”

On June 25, 2022 at approximately 6:58 PM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a single vehicle motorcycle crash on Hwy 20 near milepost 55, approximately 25 miles east of Sweet Home. 

Preliminary investigation revealed a westbound blue Harley Davidson Electra Glide, operated by Mark Nelson (57) of Lebanon, lost control and crashed into the westbound embankment. 

Nelson sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

OSP was assisted by Sweet Home Fire Department and ODOT. 

Today, the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust published its Spring 2022 Grants Report which can be viewed here (full URL below):

• The report details 76 grants to nonprofits serving the Pacific Northwest totaling $32.5 million. A full list of grantees by state can be found here (full URL below).
• This includes 29 grants to nonprofits serving Washington communities totaling $12 million.
• Also, the Murdock Trust published its 2021 Annual Report on Friday which details 466 grants awarded totaling $90 million (a record for the nonprofit foundation).

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Spring 2022 Quarterly Grants Report: https://murdocktrust.org/2022/06/spring-2022-quarterly-grants-report-stewarding-the-mission/

List of Spring 2022 Grantees by state: https://murdocktrust.org/app/uploads/2022/06/Quarterly-Grants-Report-Spring-2022.pdf

2021 Annual Report: https://murdocktrust.org/annualreport/

Today, the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust published its Spring 2022 Grants Report which can be viewed here (full URL below):

• The report details 76 grants to nonprofits serving the Pacific Northwest totaling $32.5 million. A full list of grantees by state can be found here (full URL below).
• This includes 27 grants to nonprofits serving Oregon communities totaling $11.3 million.
• Also, the Murdock Trust published its 2021 Annual Report on Friday which details 466 grants awarded totaling $90 million (a record for the nonprofit foundation).

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Spring 2022 Quarterly Grants Report: https://murdocktrust.org/2022/06/spring-2022-quarterly-grants-report-stewarding-the-mission/

List of Spring 2022 Grantees by state: https://murdocktrust.org/app/uploads/2022/06/Quarterly-Grants-Report-Spring-2022.pdf

2021 Annual Report: https://murdocktrust.org/annualreport/

With fireworks sales beginning on Tuesday, June 28^th, Longview Fire Marshal Jon Dunaway reminds residents to use fireworks safely and responsibly and to comply with all local and state laws.

According to the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office, in 2021 there were 842 reported fireworks-related fires caused by fireworks - resulting in losses totaling over $4.5 million within Washington State.  The National Fire Protection Association reports that fireworks start over 19,000 fires and send over 9,000 people to emergency departments each year in the United States.

“If you are going to be celebrating July 4^th with consumer fireworks, be sure you are aware of how to use them to reduce your chances of injuries and fires.  Also, become familiar with the laws regarding which fireworks are legal and when they can be used”, Dunaway said.  “Don’t become a statistic.” 

Dunaway also emphasized that the use of personal fireworks without a permit in Longview city parks is illegal.  “Over the years, we’ve seen damage to plastic play structures from fireworks.  When damaged they must be repaired or replaced for the safety of the children who play on them, which gets expensive” he said. 

• Be Prepared - Use only legal fireworks that are purchased locally at licensed sales locations.  Fireworks purchased outside of the city (such as on Tribal lands or online) are often of a type not allowed by state law.  Keep pets indoors so they don’t get scared and run away.  And always have a source of water nearby (a bucket of water or garden hose) just in case.
• Be Safe – Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings, vehicles, and dry vegetation.  Follow the directions on the device and do not hold in your hand or throw fireworks.  Always place fireworks on a hard, level surface so that they don’t tip over.  Never try to re-light a ‘dud’ – wait 20 minutes and then place it in a bucket of water.
• Be Responsible – Soak all used fireworks in water overnight to be sure they are completely cold before placing them in the trash.      Never place used fireworks debris in or near your home.  Keep matches and lighters away from children.  And be a good neighbor – use fireworks only during legal dates / times and discharge them in a manner that keeps debris on your property.     

Fireworks can be used in the City of Longview during these dates and times:

June 28^th                                                      12:00 p.m. (noon) to 11:00 p.m.

June 29^th through July 3^rd                              9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

July 4^th                                                         9:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight)

July 5^th                                                         9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

          December 31^st (New Year’s Eve)                     6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. on January 1^st

To report complaints about fireworks, please call the Longview Police Department non-emergency number at 360-442-5800, Option #4.   

For additional information about fireworks use and safety, visit the Longview Fire Department’s web page at https://www.mylongview.com/656/Fireworks.  You can also contact us at 360-442-5503 or via e-mail at LFD@mylongview.com.

Santiam Horse Camp in the Santiam State Forest re-opens to campers starting Friday, July 1, with opportunities to book reservations opening today.

Santiam Horse Camp was damaged in the 2020 Labor Day fires, and was closed for the 2021 camping season. You can make a reservation for dates after July 1, 2022. Santiam Horse Camp is primarily for people camping with horses, and some spots are reserved exclusively for equestrians. To make a reservation, visit reserveamerica.com and search for Santiam Horse Camp.

Maps, closure areas, and anticipated re-opening timelines for popular areas are posted to the Santiam State Forest recovery site at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/recreation/Pages/santiam-state-forest.aspx. Re-openings will also be announced on ODF’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Visitors to the area are likely to see a patchwork of fire effects from the 2020 Labor Day fires. Most trees in the camp area survived, but staff and volunteers had to rebuild corrals and other infrastructure. Other areas close to the camp were heavily damaged. Visitors are asked to respect all closures and take particular caution in burned areas.

No matter where you go, outdoor activity comes with some level of risk. Here are some safety tips:

• Do not enter closed areas.
• Take extra caution when recreating in burned areas.
• Be careful when driving on single-lane gravel roads in the forest. Active recovery and logging operations are underway. Keep to the right and anticipate oncoming traffic such as trucks, heavy equipment, and other vehicles.
• Many forest roads cross multiple ownerships, and levels of road maintenance can vary accordingly.
• Respect all land closures, public and private.

GRESHAM, Ore. – Gresham is excited to announce that for the first time since 2019, the City is offering in-person youth recreation activities again through its popular Summer Kids in the Park (SKIP) program. 

After two summers of providing only lunches and take-home activity kits due to COVID-19 restrictions, City staff hope to see kids of all ages back at three SKIP sites starting Monday, June 27.

“The opportunity for this type of in-person engagement and recreation is something the pandemic robbed us of,” said Joe Walsh, Parks and Recreation Manager. “We’re glad to finally be able to provide these opportunities that youth need back to our community.”

The seven-week recreation program runs through Aug. 12 and is free and open to all kids up to age 18.

Fire and Ice day (noon-2 p.m.)

To celebrate the return to full activities, the City has included special guests for Monday’s opening day at Main City Park. Barring any last-minute emergency calls, Gresham Fire will be on hand to give a fire truck tour, answer questions about firefighting, and test out the fire hose. Afterward, youth can cool down with a free shaved ice treat from Kona Ice. Staff from Parks and Recreation and the YMCA will also be leading a variety of large group games for kids of all ages.

In partnership with the YMCA and Play Grow Learn, SKIP will run for two hours every weekday at Main City, Red Sunset and Nadaka Nature Park. A free lunch will be served, and kids can just drop in. No advance registration is required.

SKIP Parks and Recreation Summer Program Schedule

Red Sunset Park, 2403 NE Red Sunset Drive
Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Lunch served from noon-12:30 p.m.

Main City Park, 219 S. Main Ave.
Monday through Friday, noon-2 p.m.
Lunch served from noon-12:30 p.m.

Nadaka Nature Park, 

Monday through Friday, noon-2 p.m.
Lunch served from noon-12:30 p.m.

Fun and healthy activities such as tag, soccer and arts and crafts will take place at each location. The Gresham-Barlow School District’s free summer lunch program will serve the three parks daily from noon-12:30 p.m.

Parents and guardians are advised to stay at the park while youth are participating in SKIP; children younger than age 8 should not be left without supervision.

For more information, visit GreshamOregon.gov/SKIP or call 503-618-2525.

About Gresham:

Gresham is a welcoming community of hard-working people where tradition and heritage meet innovation and opportunity in Oregon's fourth largest city. Gresham’s residents care deeply about our roots as a homestead and agricultural community and are committed to building a vibrant future. Today, Gresham is a dynamic, innovative, and rapidly growing city with a desire to thrive. In Gresham, we are family. To learn more, visit www.GreshamOregon.gov or visit us on Twitter at @CityofGresham.

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[MEDIA INVITE: The Portland Business Alliance welcomes media partners to join us for a very special Annual Meeting, presented by U.S. Bank!]

Media is invited to join the Portland Business Alliance and business association partners from around the state for the unveiling of a comprehensive report that details the Oregon's unique and powerful Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation economy ecosystem. Hosted at Providence Park, this year’s annual meeting will offer participants a unique look into the State of the Economy with a state-wide analysis on the profound impacts offered by the Greater Portland, Bend and Eugene’s Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation industries.

As a hub for sporting goods and apparel design, as well as a national destination for outdoor recreation, the State of Oregon’s Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation ecosystem is unparalleled in the U.S. and across the globe. And this July, Oregon is playing host to the 2022 World Athletics Championships, offering a global glimpse into the state’s unique environment for sports innovation and growth.

At this year’s meeting, the internationally recognized HR&A Advisors, Inc. will unveil a special report, Oregon: The State of Sport, and offer highlights on the trends of Oregon’s sporting ecosystem, which is anchored in Greater Portland and has robust nodes of innovation in Bend – where startups and tech companies are growing – and Eugene. This report is the:

• Largest of its kind. This is the most robust report to date that articulates Oregon’s competitive advantage and measures the benefits that the athletic, outdoor, team and recreation industries generate for the state.
• First of its kind. It’s the first time we’re able to quantify something many Oregonians have long suspected to be true: Oregon is a massive economic force and home to unparalleled talent in the athletic, outdoor, team and recreation industries.

Following HR&A’s presentation, a special panel of experts will dive deep into the report’s findings and offer their opinions on how Oregon can continue to be a global leader in the Athletic, Outdoor, Team and Recreation economic ecosystem. Panelists include:

• Angela Wilhelms, President and CEO, Oregon Business & Industry
• Jim Etzel, CEO, Sport Oregon
• Monique Claiborne, President and CEO, Greater Portland, Inc.

The panel discussion will be moderated by Andrew Hoan, President & CEO of the Portland Business Alliance.

To register, click here AND use code 22AMMEDIA – this will waive all fees.

Media partners will have prime seats in the center section, so there will be a great view to the presentations and panel discussions. 

We hope to see you there!

June 27, 2022; Portland, OR: The Portland Business Alliance and Downtown Portland are proud to sponsor the Waterfront Blues Festival, downtown Portland's largest and longest-running music festival, celebrating its 35th anniversary! The COVID-19 pandemic paused this beloved Festival for the past two years. However, we are pleased see the Festival return to Tom McCall Waterfront Park during the Fourth of July weekend, July 1-4, 2022.  

The 2022 Festival format will have a total of four stages in addition to the return of Oregon's largest July 4th fireworks display, Blues Cruises!  

This year, the Festival is bringing 100+ world-class blues, soul, funk, and R&B artists into the heart of Downtown Portland with celebrated headliners that include: Grammy-award-winning Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band; soulful folk heroes The Wood Brothers; New Orleans legends Galactic, featuring Anjelika Jelly Joseph; international superstar Femi Kuti & The Positive Force; genre-busting funk band Lettuce; powerhouse soul duo The War and Treaty; and more.  

"Whether it's what you're seeing on-stage with legendary performers who've defined the genre alongside up-and-comers who continue to push it forward, or in the crowd with fans who came to the festival when they were kids who are now bringing their children- the entire weekend is a true celebration of the genre and everything it influences."- Peter Dammann, Artistic Director, Waterfront Blues Festival.  

We look forward to seeing you at the Waterfront this coming Fourth of July weekend! 

About Waterfront Blues Festival: Waterfront Blues Festival is downtown Portland’s largest and longest-running music festival and one of the most renowned celebrations of the blues in the world. 2022 marks the 35th anniversary of the festival and a jubilant return to downtown Portland’s Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Since 1988, Waterfront Blues Festival has welcomed over 2,000 acts, garnered international acclaim, and raised over $10 million dollars to support local community organizations. The festival continues to build upon a longstanding legacy and fanbase while also welcoming new artists and audiences by bringing the most exciting and dynamic blues, soul, funk and R&B artists to the stage for a can’t-miss Fourth of July Weekend. Learn more at http://www.waterfrontbluesfest.com/ and @waterfrontblues.  

About Portland Business Alliance and the Downtown Portland marketing initiative: The Portland Business Alliance – Greater Portland's Chamber of Commerce – was founded in 1870 and represents the largest, most diverse business network in the region. The Alliance brings together more than 2,100 members represented by dynamic and varied employers from around the Portland region and offers a strong source of support, information, advocacy, engagement, and professional development opportunities. Grounded in its mission to create opportunity and advance well-being for all who live and work in the greater Portland and SW Washington regions, the Alliance envisions a healthy and resilient business ecosystem where we work together to increase collaboration in governance; engage community; increase civic leadership; and, advocate for a vibrant, livable region for all.

The Downtown Portland marketing initiative is a program of the Portland Business Alliance that exists to promote Downtown Portland. Visit DowntownPortland.org for more information.

On 06-26-2022 at around 1630 hours members of the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, North Country EMS, and Clark County Fire responded to a vehicle versus multiple pedestrian collision in the 27500 Block of NE Lucia Falls Rd, near Moulton Falls Regional Park. Preliminary scene evidence and witness statements suggest a white 1997 Chevrolet Blazer was travelling eastbound on NE Lucia Falls Rd when it left the southern roadway edge and impacted 3 pedestrians who were walking together, eastbound on the shoulder of NE Lucia Falls RD. 2 of the 3 pedestrians suffered critical injuries and were transported to area hospitals for treatment. Impairment was not suspected to be a factor in the collision. The Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit responded to the scene and will continue the investigation. 

The Clark County Sheriff's Office would like to thank all the citizens who stopped and provided medical aid while waiting for emergency responders to arrive.  

Names of the involved are not being released at this time.  

Case #22-6377

GRANTS PASS, OR (Jun 25, 2022) – Civil Air Patrol (CAP) members from Grants Pass Composite Squadron renewed the tradition of an annual Car Show known as Wings & Wheels at Josephine County’s Airport Days this past Saturday, June 25. Participants entered their vehicles in hopes of winning a 1st place or 2nd place trophy in their respective classes.

Over 95 vehicles registered for the event. Instead of just waiting around, they were “wowed” by static displays and low flying aircraft. Music was provided by the DD214’s Veteran’s group and there were food vendors providing ample snacks and refreshments. 

CAP cadets assisted Josephine County Airport with parking and directing airshow and car show participants, but their favorite part of the event was handing out the trophies. 

Established in 1941, Civil Air Patrol is the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force and as such is a member of its Total Force. In its auxiliary role, CAP operates a fleet of 560 single-engine Cessna aircraft and more than 2,000 small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) and performs about 90% of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center. Often using innovative cellphone forensics and radar analysis software, CAP was credited by the AFRCC with saving 130 lives in fiscal 2020. CAP’s 54,000 members also perform homeland security, disaster relief and drug interdiction missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. As a nonprofit organization, CAP plays a leading role in aerospace education using national academic standards-based STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education. Members also serve as mentors to over 20,000 young people participating in CAP’s Cadet Programs. One of the premier public service organizations in America, CAP benefits the nation with an estimated economic impact of $209 million 

On Saturday, June 25, 2022 at about 8:57 p.m., a Polk County citizen called 911 to report hearing multiple gun shots around the area of Highland Road and Stapleton Road, outside city limits of Independence, in Polk County.  The witness heard vehicles speeding away from the area.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office responded to investigate the incident.  Many cartridge casings were located at the scene.  One of the involved parties called to report their involvement. No injuries were reported.  Two vehicles have been seized and will be processed for evidence.

This investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made at this time.  The Sheriff’s Office has information of a possible third involved vehicle, which is still outstanding and of interest to this investigation. The vehicle is described as a gray colored Camaro with a black spoiler.

Due to this being an ongoing investigation, no names will be released.  The Sheriff’s Office will submit and updated press release once this investigation comes to a close.

Please forward all tips to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, (503) 623-9251.  The tip will ultimately be forwarded to Det. David Shorter.

This Monday, June 27th, 2022 at 10:00 am, Portland Fire & Rescue will hold its 111th annual David Campbell Memorial, honoring Fallen Firefighters at Portland Firefighters Park. The David Campbell Memorial Association was established in 1913 to commemorate the memory of Portland’s Fire Chief David Campbell who died in the “Union Oil fire” on June 26, 1911. The Campbell Memorial has added the names of all Portland Firefighters who have subsequently died in the line of duty while protecting life and property in the city of Portland.

Portland Fire & Rescue Pipes & Drums will begin the ceremony, which will be followed by the posting of the colors and National Anthem by our Honor Guard. The wreath will be laid on the memorial then Firefighter of the Year, Audrey Tollefson, will toll the bell while the names of 75 Portland fallen firefighters are read, including Lieutenant Jerry Richardson who died last November. We will have a brief statement from Chief Jackson, a close family friend, as well as a statement from a City of Portland representative. The Kingsley Award will be presented to FF Bob Stere to wrap up the memorial.  

Please join us in honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

DATE: Monday, June 27, 2022.

LOCATION: Portland Firefighters Park (between SW 18th Ave and 19th Ave, south of Alder St.)

TIME: Platoon Reports 0930 Hours, Service starts 1000 Hours.

UNIFORM: Service Dress Uniform with Cap for all Portland Fire & Rescue personnel.

PLATOON: Portland Firefighters Pipes and Drums, PF&R Honor Guard, Engine 17, Engine 3, Truck 3, C4, C103.

From 4:30 to 6:30pm today in Portland and across the West Coast, abortion rights supporters will be dropping banners off of Interstate 5 overpasses to say it loud: Politicians need to keep their bans off our bodies! 

The action comes on the day after a dangerous and shocking Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and nearly 50 years of precedent, eliminating the federal constitutional right to abortion and stripping people of the right to control their own bodies. 

The #BansOffOurBodiesWestCoast action will demonstrate support for reproductive freedom from Canada to Mexico. The Portland banner drop will take place at North Missouri Avenue and North Ainsworth Street.

Vancouver, Wash. –On June 25, 2022, at approximately 12:28 a.m., 9-1-1 received multiple calls regarding gunshots coming from a residence (4 plex) in the 2900 block of E 16^th Street. As officers were enroute, callers reported smoke and flames coming from one of the units. Officers arrived and evacuated the neighboring units and assisted with road closure and scene protection as the Vancouver Fire Department extinguished the fire. This was a 2-alarm fire which involved 25 firefighters including an engine from Clark County Fire District 6. It took approximately 30 minutes to control the fire. Upon entering, emergency personnel located two deceased males inside the unit where the fire occurred. There were no additional reported injuries as a result of the fire. All residents of the 4 plex were displaced and are being assisted by Red Cross. 

Investigators from the Vancouver Police Department Major Crimes Team and Vancouver Police Arson Team are continuing the investigation. Investigators from the Washington State Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are assisting to process the scene. 

Nothing further is releasable at this time. 

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At approximately 1230 AM late Friday night the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at the 2900 block of E 16th street in the Harney Heights neighborhood. The first fire engine arrived within 2 ½ minutes to a 4-plex and found heavy fire coming from the front and back of a 2nd story apartment. A second alarm was requested which sent a total of 25 firefighters to the blaze including an engine company from Clark County Fire Dist 6. 

Firefighters on the second floor reported heavy attic involvement and requested additional hose lines and manpower to assist in extinguishing the fire. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. 4 families are displaced and red cross has been contacted to assist them. The Vancouver Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause of the fire as firefighters continue to operate on scene. 

At approximately 1230 AM late Friday night the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at the 2900 block of E 16th street in the Harney Heights neighborhood. The first fire engine arrived within 2 ½ minutes to a 4-plex and found heavy fire coming from the front and back of a 2nd story apartment. A second alarm was requested which sent a total of 25 firefighters to the blaze including an engine company from Clark County Fire Dist 6. 

Firefighters on the second floor reported heavy attic involvement and requested additional hose lines and manpower to assist in extinguishing the fire. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. 4 families are displaced and red cross has been contacted to assist them. The Vancouver Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause of the fire as firefighters continue to operate on scene. 

On June 24, 2022 at 0952 hours the Clark County Sheriff’s Office responded with Fire District 3, Vancouver Fire Department and American Medical Response (AMR) ambulance to a two-vehicle collision on NE 212th Ave at NE Powell Rd in Brush Prairie, Washington.

Investigators determined a 2017 Chevrolet Corvette was being operated by a 16-year-old northbound on NE 212th Ave with 50-year-old Benjamin Andrews occupying the right front passenger seat, both of Brush Prairie, Washington.  Meanwhile, a 2018 Jeep Cherokee was being operated by 39-year-old Roberta Russo, of Camas, Washington, and occupied by her 6 and 9-year-old children as she was turning south on NE 212th Ave from NE Powell Rd.

As the Jeep entered NE 212th Ave, the right front of the Chevrolet impacted the left front of the Jeep.  The force of the impact caused the vehicles to rotate and exit the roadway.  The Chevrolet sheared a utility pole and then caught fire.  Bystanders used fire extinguishers to keep the fire at bay while others removed the occupants to safety.  

Andrews sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. The 16-year-old sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to an area hospital for treatment.   Russo and her children suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to an area hospital for treatment.

Excessive speed was a factor in the collision event.  

The investigation is being completed by the Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit.
 

June 24, 2022

The next Housing Stability Council meeting will be from 9 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Friday, July 1, 2022. The meeting will be held electronically due to the current COVID-19 health crisis. You can find all meeting materials on our website.

Webinar Meeting Only

Register in advance for this webinar:

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0gaTLc20SYSFgConBPN2kw 

AGENDA:

9:00: Meeting Called to Order - Roll Call 

9:05: Public Comment

9:30: Report of the Chair

9:45: Report of the Director

10:00: Affordable Rental Housing Division (pg. 05)

             Natasha Detweiler-Daby, interim director, Affordable Rental Housing

• MF Housing Transaction Recommendations: Tai Dunson-Strane, Production Manager
  • 25th and Lincoln
  • 5020 N Interstate
  • Nestucca Ocean Apartments
• Champion Park: Preservation Recommendation: Martin Jarvis, State Tax Credit Program Analyst
• Market Cost Offset: Affordability Term Alignment: Natasha Detweiler-Daby, Interim Director Affordable Rental Housing 
• CARE Initiative; Co-Location of Affordable Rental with Early Learning: Rick Ruzicka, Interim Assistant Director Planning and Policy 
• ANOAH Pilot: Acquisition of Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing Funds: Mitch Hannoosh, Senior Operations and Policy Analyst; Trinity Kerr, Operations and Policy Analyst 
• 4% LIHTC and Private Activity Bond Framework Introduction:  Roberto Franco, Assistant Director Development Resources & Production; Natasha Detweiler-Daby, Interim Director Affordable Rental Housing
• Reference memo in packet (not prioritized for discussion): 
  • Market Cost Offset Fund  

11:30: 15 min break

11:45: Homeownership Division (pg. 49) 

             Emese Perfecto, director, Homeownership

• Homeownership Market Cost Offset Fund: Emese Perfecto, Director, Talia Kahn-Kravis, Operations & Policy Analyst

12:15: 2023 DRAFT Legislative Agenda (pg. 54)

• Updates & Stakeholder Survey Results: Nicole Stingh, Assistant Director of Government Relations, Chelsea Bunch, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer

1:15: Housing Stabilization Division (pg. 70)

            Jill Smith, Interim Director, Housing Stabilization

• Rent Assistance for Youth Pilot program: Jill Smith, Interim Director, Housing Stabilization, Lauren Dressen, Interim Manager of Housing Retention Programs

1:30: Central Services Division (pg. 75) 

            Sarah Roth, Central Services Administrator

• Reference memo in packet (not prioritized for discussion):
  •  HR Report on Staffing Demographics                   

1:45: Meeting Adjourned

 Media Hotline: 800-570-5838 

Pacific Power is preparing for summer’s heat 

PORTLAND (June 24, 2022) – As temperatures approach triple digits across parts of the Pacific Northwest this upcoming weekend, Pacific Power is preparing to face higher demands on the grid from both record temperatures and increased customer need.  

“We’ve taken steps for grid hardening, in particular since last summer, to prevent overloading at the substation level,” said Erik Brookhouse, vice president of operations for Pacific Power. “We are confident about our network’s readiness for this summer.” 

Pacific Power takes steps each day to keep electric service reliable for its customers by monitoring which substations and circuits have the highest use, identifying any potential trouble spots and implementing solutions within a day.  

“Understanding the climate and customer needs help us provide reliable electricity during this season,” Brookhouse said. 

At the end of each summer, Pacific Power reviews how the electrical system performed, and last year identified 49 projects that were completed prior to the 2022 summer season. Examples of projects include: 

• Increasing system and distribution capacity; 
• Installing new equipment such as switches, voltage regulators and transformers; 
• Balancing and reconfiguring the electrical pathways serving customers in specific areas. 

Engineers and power system operators keep a close eye on area weather forecasts as well. Electric systems are sensitive to temperature, so the conditions that impact the electric system the most come during consecutive days when 100-degree highs are coupled with nighttime temperatures that do not cool below 70 degrees. “Customers can also take steps to manage their energy use during the summer peak season,” said Brookhouse. “We have simple tips, programs and incentives for customers to increase their energy efficiency at home and in the workplace, particularly during the summer months.” 

Customers can also take steps to manage their energy use during the summer. To see a full list of energy-saving tips, visit the company’s website. Among the top energy-saving recommendations for summer are: 
 

• Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day. 
• Open windows during cooler evening hours. 
• Operate the clothes dryer and dishwasher at night. 
• If you have air conditioning, set it to maintain an interior temperature of 78 degrees, higher when you are away from home. 

More electric energy information is available on Pacific Power’s website at: www.pacificpower.net.  

About Pacific Power  

Pacific Power provides electric service to more than 770,000 customers in Oregon, Washington, and California. It is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, providing 2 million customers with value for their energy dollar through safe, reliable electricity. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.  

# # #  

June 24, 2022

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

Oregon Cannabis Commission's Patient Equity and Governance Frame Working subcommittees meet via Zoom June 27

What: A combined Zoom meeting for the Oregon Cannabis Commission’s Patient Equity and Governance Frame Working subcommittees.

Agenda: The full agenda will be available at www.healthoregon.org/cannabiscommission.

When: Monday, June 27, 10 a.m. to noon.

Where: Zoom Meeting. Members of the public may join remotely by phone at 1-669-254-5252; Meeting ID: 161 867 6690 Passcode: 981896

Background: The Oregon Cannabis Commission was established in the 2017 legislative session through HB 2198. The commission consists of the state health officer or designee and an eight member-panel appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the senate. The commission provides advice to Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission regarding Oregon Administrative Rules that govern medical cannabis as well as retail cannabis as it pertains to patients and caregivers.  Additionally, the commission is tasked with developing a long-term strategic plan for ensuring that cannabis will remain a therapeutic and affordable option for patients and monitoring federal laws, regulations, and policies regarding cannabis.

Visit www.Healthoregon.org/cannabiscommission for more information.

# # #

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 material in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Megan Lockwood at 971-673-0620, 711 TTY or .lockwood@dhsoha.state.or.us">megan.r.lockwood@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

PORTLAND, Ore.—The U.S. Army Recruiting Command, Portland Battalion, is scheduled to hold a Change of Command ceremony at Fort Vancouver, WA, on June 30, 2022.

The ceremony marks a significant change in leadership from outgoing Portland Recruiting Battalion commander Lieutenant Colonel Jessica E. King to incoming commander Lieutenant Colonel Lance C. Turner. The Portland Battalion’s Senior Enlisted Advisor, Command Sergeant Major Thomas Kenny will continue in his present role.

LTC King’s next assignment will be at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Tacoma, Wash.

LTC Turner’s most recently served as the Joint Intelligence Current Operations Officer with the NATO Rapid Deployable Corps-Italy in Milan, Italy.

Colonel Michael Lindley, Commander of the U.S. Army’s 6^th Recruiting Brigade, will serve as the senior presiding officer for the ceremony, and Command Sergeant Major Cedric White, the Senior Enlisted Advisor for 6^th Brigade.

-END-

About the US Army Portland Recruiting Battalion:

The Portland Recruiting Battalion is the largest geographically dispersed Battalion in the US Army Recruiting Command. The Battalion’s area is 356,975 land miles and includes the majority of Oregon, SW Washington, Hawaii, Guam, Japan, South Korea, American Samoa, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Republic of Palau (ROP). The Portland Metro Area comprises nearly 41% of the Battalion’s qualified applicant population.

The Portland Recruiting Battalion seeks a diverse force of Soldiers who are fit, resilient and of good moral character, and firmly believes in engaging all populations of people to provide an understanding of what the Army provides. The US Army delivers training and credentials similar to vocational and technical schools with no out-of-pocket expenses. The Army’s priority is people, and its leaders are focused on taking care of Soldiers and their families. Life experience gained from the Army makes Soldiers more marketable in their post-Army careers. The Army also offers a variety of scholarships and tuition assistance options for a college education. For more information, visit www.goarmy.com.

Comprehensive reproductive health care access, including abortion services, is essential 

Portland, OR - June 24, 2022 - Today, Central City Concern (CCC) joins millions of Americans in feeling the shocking loss of reproductive freedom in our country, as a result of the Supreme Court overturning the landmark Roe v. Wade decision, effectively ending federal protections for abortion access as a part of comprehensive reproductive health care. The impact of this decision is far-reaching and will embolden many states to restrict or eliminate access to the reproductive healthcare choices people need. 

CCC condemns this decision. 

Overturning Roe v. Wade stands to disproportionately affect people of color, LGBTQ folks, people experiencing homelessness and housing instability and others who experience systemic barriers to comprehensive reproductive healthcare. CCC values and supports full and unrestricted access to all dimensions of comprehensive reproductive healthcare for all. This is a critical component of health equity for individuals, families and communities. 

The ability to decide when, how, and with whom to have a child is deeply important. That decision is a personal one, and one that should be decided by an individual in consultation with their health care provider and family. 

“This is a tragic day for the United States and for the many thousands of patients immediately impacted by this ruling,” says Dr. Andy Mendenhall, CCC’s Chief Medical Officer. “The elimination of reproductive health care access is a policy strategy that promotes poverty and intergenerational trauma. This decision jeopardizes the health and safety of millions of people across the country. CCC has, and will continue, to stand strong for the right to access comprehensive reproductive health care.” 

Oregon is one of the few states in the U.S. where abortion is fully protected. We are grateful for Oregon’s legal protections. We appreciate the elected leadership who came out strongly and unequivocally today, committing to protect Oregonians' access to comprehensive healthcare. Finally, we are grateful to the service providers within our region who continue to provide full access to reproductive health care services.   

About CCC    

Located in Portland, Oregon, Central City Concern (CCC) provides a comprehensive continuum of affordable housing options integrated with direct social services including health care, recovery and employment. Founded in 1979, CCC has a staff of over 1,000 and an annual operating budget of $100 million. CCC serves more than 13,000 individuals annually. Up to 12,000 people across the tri-county region are affected annually by homelessness.    

This morning at 08:43 hours, Lane County 911 dispatch received a report of a school bus crash on Marcola Road near milepost 4.  

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office, Mohawk Fire and Rescue, and Eugene Springfield Fire and Rescue responded to the scene.

Upon arrival, two occupants were located: an adult male driver and a single juvenile passenger. The adult male was transported to the hospital in serious condition. The juvenile was treated and released at the scene.

The investigation continues, but initial indications point to the driver suffering a medical emergency, immediately preceding the crash.  

Emergency responders had Marcola Road closed for a little more than an hour, to accommodate emergency vehicles and personnel.  At this time the roadway has been completely reopened and normal traffic has resumed.

Every summer our lakes, rivers and creeks become crowed spots for people to cool off and this year is no exception. As people flock to the water, they need to remember that the water this time of year is cold and because of the recent rains, the water level is very high. These conditions can be especially dangerous even for the more advanced swimmers.

The Silverton Fire District life jacket loaner stations at the Scotts Mills County Park, Silverton City Park and at the Silverton Reservoir have been fully stocked with adult and youth sized personal floatation devices (life jackets). The process for using the life jacket is simple; take them off the hangers and use them and then put them back when you are done with them. There is no charge for this service.

Last year, the Silverton Fire District had several near drownings and at least one fatality. The fatality last year could have been prevented by the use of a life jacket. 

Drownings and near drowning are tragedies that can be avoided by following some very easy tips provided by the American Red Cross:

 1) Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards.

2) Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone.

3) Never leave a young child unattended near water and do not trust a child’s life to another child; teach children to always ask permission to go near water.

4) Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone.

5) Maintain constant supervision.

6) Make sure everyone in your family learns to swim well.

7) If you have a pool, secure it with appropriate barriers. Many children who drown in home pools were out of sight for less than five minutes and in the care of one or both parents at the time.

8) Avoid distractions when supervising children around water.

9) If a child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability.

10) Have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets and a first aid kit.

11) Enroll in Red Cross home pool safety, water safety, first aid and CPR/AED courses to learn how to prevent and respond to emergencies.

12) Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine in them.

Knowing how to swim well is the first line of defense in the water and making sure that your family knows how to swim well can keep water tragedies from becoming a reality. However, it is important to understand that even the strongest swimmers can easily become tired in the water very quickly especially after drinking alcohol and eating heavy meals. Know what your own limitations are and listen to what your body is telling you; if realize that you are becoming fatigued, get out of the water and take a rest.

The Silverton Fire District would like everyone to stay safe in and around the water. By doing your part, you can help prevent these yearly tragedies that effect so many lives.

Assistant Chief Ed Grambusch – PIO

Silverton Fire District

Pictures Attached

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On June 24, 2022 at approximately 12:35 AM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 97 near milepost 267.  

Preliminary investigation revealed that a southbound GMC Truck, operated by Erika Delrio (36) of Yuba City, CA, and a northbound white Nissan Xterra, operated by Cybil Nelson (35) of Bend, collided head-on. Both vehicles were destroyed by fire due to the crash. OSP Reconstruction members are investigating the crash.    

Erika Delrio was transported via life-flight to St. Charles Medical Center with critical injuries. A passenger, Martha Carriedo (60) of Yuba City, CA sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. Additional passengers, Magdalena Delrio (21) of Yuba City, CA and two male children, aged 1 and 2, were transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Nelson sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.  

OSP was assisted by Klamath County Sheriff’s Office, Klamath County Fire District 1 and ODOT. 

Hwy 97 was closed for approximately 5 hours.  

Any witnesses to the collision who were not already interviewed by investigators or those with information related to the crash are asked to call OSP Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888. Reference Case #SP22-155016.  

Lo que debe saber

• La mayoría de los habitantes de Oregon que reciben beneficios de alimentos de SNAP continuarán recibiendo los beneficios adicionales temporales de emergencia en julio
• Aproximadamente 422,000 hogares que reciben SNAP recibirán aproximadamente $68 millones en beneficios de alimentos adicionales además de sus beneficios regulares de SNAP
• Estos beneficios de emergencia son un apoyo temporal que Oregon puede dar debido a la emergencia de salud pública federal por el COVID-19
• Encuentre recursos para cubrir sus necesidades básicas: marque al 2-1-1 o envíe un mensaje de texto con su código postal al 898-21, www.211info.org 
• Centro de ayuda para el COVID-19 del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon

(Salem) – La mayoría de los habitantes de Oregon que reciben beneficios de alimentos del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria (SNAP) recibirán pagos de emergencia en julio.

El gobierno federal ha aprobado pagos de emergencia todos los meses desde marzo del 2020. Esto da a los beneficiarios de SNAP apoyo adicional durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Estos beneficios de emergencia son un apoyo temporal que Oregon puede dar debido a la emergencia de salud pública federal por el COVID-19.

Debido a que el gobierno federal aprobó estos beneficios de emergencia para julio, Oregon también podrá darlos en agosto. Sin embargo, se espera que los beneficios de emergencia terminen cuando la emergencia de salud pública federal llegue a su fin.

En julio, aproximadamente 422,000 hogares que reciben SNAP recibirán aproximadamente $68 millones en beneficios de alimentos adicionales además de sus beneficios regulares de SNAP.

“Sabemos que muchos dependen de estos beneficios adicionales de alimentos de emergencia para tener suficientes alimentos saludables para ellos y sus familias”, dijo Claire Seguin, subdirectora de Programas de Autosuficiencia del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon (ODHS). “También sabemos que muchos habitantes de Oregon todavía tienen dificultades para cubrir sus necesidades básicas y los alentamos a que se comuniquen con nuestros socios en el 211 y el Banco de Alimentos de Oregon para recibir apoyo durante este momento difícil”.

Los hogares que actualmente reciben SNAP recibirán el pago de emergencia el 12 de julio. Los hogares que no recibieron beneficios en ese primer depósito mensual recibirán el pago de emergencia el 29 de julio o el 2 de agosto.

Las personas que reciben SNAP no tienen que tomar ninguna acción para recibir estos beneficios adicionales ya que se depositarán directamente en sus tarjetas EBT.

Más información sobre los pagos de emergencia en https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/ASSISTANCE/FOOD-BENEFITS/Pages/Emergency-Allotments.aspx.

Si tiene preguntas sobre sus beneficios de alimentos de SNAP comuníquese con el Centro de Servicio al Cliente de ONE al 1-800-699-9075.

Si su hogar recibe SNAP y sus ingresos o la cantidad de personas que viven en su hogar ha cambiado, eso podría afectar sus beneficios. Es importante asegurar que ODHS tenga su información más reciente.

Puede notificar cualquier cambio en sus ingresos o en su hogar de muchas maneras:

• En línea: ONE.Oregon.gov
• Por correo: ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309
• Por fax: 503-378-5628
• Por teléfono: 1-800-699-9075 or TTY 711

Recursos para ayudar a cubrir sus necesidades básicas

• Encuentre una despensa de alimentos: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
• Infórmese sobre programas del gobierno y recursos en la comunidad para adultos mayores y personas con discapacidades: Conexión para Recursos de Envejecimiento y Discapacidad de Oregon al 1-855-673-2372 o www.adrcoforegon.org.
• Marque 2-1-1, mande un mesaje de texto con su código postal al 898-211, www.211info.org 
• Encuentre recursos locales y apoyo comunicándose con su Agencia de Acción Comunitaria local: www.caporegon.org/find-services/ 
• Centro de ayuda para el COVID-19 del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon

Administrado por ODHS, SNAP es un programa federal que brinda asistencia de alimentos a aproximadamente 1 millón de familias y personas elegibles de bajos ingresos en Oregon, incluyendo muchos adultos mayores y personas con discapacidades. Los habitantes de Oregon que lo necesiten pueden pedir beneficios como SNAP, cuidado infantil, asistencia en efectivo y Medicaid. Obtenga más información en https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/benefits/Pages/index.aspx.

Para información sobre recursos locales en su área, como alimentos o refugio, llame al 2-1-1 o comuníquese con la Conexión para Recursos de Envejecimiento y Discapacidad (ADRC por sus siglas en inglés) del estado al 1-855-ORE-ADRC o al 1-855-673-2372 .

###

Oregon Homeowner Assistance Fund expands mortgage support to include more traditionally underserved homeowners

Phase 3 now open to eligible applicants

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services announced that the Oregon Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) program is open to applicants eligible for Phase 3. The program is a federal temporary COVID-19 emergency mortgage relief program intended to support homeowners who have experienced severe financial hardships due to the pandemic. It provides funding for past-due mortgages and other housing expenses to a limited number of homeowners with low incomes. 

OHCS is working to assist homeowners at risk of losing their home in a phased approach. During Phases 1 and 2, it focused on homeowners who were most at-risk of foreclosure or who had the fewest options. Program staff will continue to process applications already submitted in Phases 1 and 2. Eligibility information for the different phases is available on the HAF website. 

While continuing to serve homeowners eligible for Phases 1 and 2, Phase 3 expands HAF support to homeowners traditionally underserved or less able to recover, including those who are: 

• Over the age of 62 years
• Living with a disability (with proof of benefits) 
• Rural, as determined by ZIP Code
• Socially disadvantaged individuals (defined by the U.S. Department of the Treasury), including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, as well as members of federally recognized Tribes 
• Limited English proficiency (English is not the applicant’s primary language)
• Recovering property damage or destruction caused by a natural disaster (with proof of benefits)
• Homeowners with mortgages where the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is the named beneficiary. This is a very rare situation, where HUD has taken over a loan that is in default. Homeowners should speak with a housing counselor to determine if this is their loan. 

Homeowners who have not applied and are eligible may now find a new application link on the oregonhomeownerassistance.org website. Homeowners eligible for Phases 1 or 2 may now apply using the same link if they have not previously submitted an application. If homeowners need assistance with their application, the HAF website lists the program’s application intake assistance partners who can help homeowners with online, paper, in-person, or limited English proficiency applications. Homeowners with additional questions about HAF can visit the website or call 833-604-0879.

Phase 4, which will apply to all other eligible applicants if funding is still available, will open at a date to be determined. 

HAF funding is limited. The state is prioritizing Oregon households that are at the highest risk of foreclosure. Once the $90 million of funding granted by the U.S. Treasury is gone, the program will close. Even if homeowners are eligible, there is no guarantee their application will be funded.

Other mortgage relief programs are available if homeowners do not meet the HAF eligibility criteria. Homeowners should contact a housing counselor, mortgage servicer or 211 for more options. 

###

Portland Sunday Parkways, presented by Kaiser Permanente, returns in-person to the Northeast Cully neighborhood on Sunday, June 26, after two years of pandemic restrictions. 2022 is the 15th anniversary season of the city's biggest celebration in the street, and Kaiser Permanente’s 15th year as founding and presenting sponsor. 

Media opportunity + interviews
Kaiser Permanente and the City invite media for interviews from 10-11 a.m. this Sunday, June 26 at the Kaiser Permanente CONNECT booth at Kʰunamokwst Park (5200 NE Alberta St.). Interview leaders from the City of Portland and Kaiser Permanente:

• Chris Warner, Director of the Portland Bureau of Transportation
• Wendy Watson, COO of Kaiser Permanente’s Northwest Region

“As a health care organization, we’re proud to partner with the City and local businesses, artists and vendors to create healthy and memorable experiences for our Portland communities for the 15th year,” said Wendy Watson, COO of Kaiser Permanente’s Northwest region. “Our sponsorship represents a $110,000 commitment to promote civic pride, support local businesses, and encourage people-powered modes of transportation. We invite everyone to come out and thrive with us and with your Portland neighbors.”

This season, look for two in-person celebrations:

• Sunday, June 26 in Northeast Cully, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Sunday, August 21 in East Portland, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

During each event, Portland's streets will be turned into accessible, family-friendly routes that are closed to car traffic for the day. This allows people to bike, walk, roll, and play freely as they explore neighborhood greenways, city parks, and community spaces, all while sampling food, live entertainment, and other can't-miss surprises.

The Kaiser Permanente Sticker Hunt also returns this season, with five routes each set in a different neighborhood. You can play any day you choose from June 1 through August 31, and participants receive a 4” herb plant from Portland Nursery. In addition to the in-person activities, Kaiser Permanente offers fun and educational online health and wellness videos and classes at kp.org/sundayparkways.

“There is a strong link between physical activity and health and mental wellness,” said Watson. “Encouraging people to walk, ride and bike Sunday Parkways with friends and family is a great way for everyone to get out, get active and get to know their neighbors, while also allowing us to improve the mental health and resilience of our local communities.”

Visuals: 

• Interactive mural painting with local artist Rather Severe in the Kaiser Permanente CONNECT booth at KʰunamokwstPark (5200 NE Alberta St.)
• Cooking demonstrations with chef Greg Gates in the NOURISH booth at Wellington Park (NE 66th Ave. and Mason St.)
• Children playing games with Playworks in the PLAY booth at Fernhill Park (NE 37th Ave.  and Ainsworth St.)
• Self-guided exercise circuit in the MOVE booth at Roseway Parkway (7201 NE Skidmore St.)
• Opportunities for photos and videos of Portlanders coming together to bike, walk and run a 6-mile traffic-free double loop route, while enjoying food, live music, fun and games.

More Information:
Visit kp.org/sundayparkways for route maps and info.

Vancouver, Wash. – Fireworks go on sale in Clark County beginning Tuesday, June 28. For the Independence Day holiday, residents can use fireworks in unincorporated Clark County from 9 am to midnight Monday, July 4.

“Even though fireworks are offered for sale starting on June 28, remember that they are not allowed to be used until July 4,” said Clark County Fire Marshal Dan Young. Illegal use of fireworks such as curfew or device type violation is subject to a $500 civil fine for first time offenders. 

Fireworks also can be used from 6 pm Dec. 31 to 1 am Jan. 1 in unincorporated areas. To learn more about permitted times for fireworks use and what types are not allowed, go to www.clark.wa.gov/community-development/fireworks. 

Vancouver has banned fireworks within its city limits, and rules vary in other cities in the county. Clark County provides an online chart, indicating when fireworks can be used in different areas of the county. There is also an interactive map that allows the public to quickly determine the rules for fireworks use based on an address anywhere in the county. Additionally, each sales location in the county is required to post signage outlining when fireworks can be used legally.

Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency has established this phone number for reporting nuisance fireworks complaints: 360.597.7888. Residents are asked not to call 911 or 311 for the purpose of reporting nuisance fireworks. 

Safety first
Residents and visitors are urged to celebrate the Fourth of July with extra caution because improper use of fireworks can lead to grass or structure fires.  

“Fireworks start more than 19,000 fires and send more than 9,100 people to emergency rooms nationwide each year,” said Young.

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

A few important safety reminders:

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

Place used fireworks in a bucket of water to soak overnight before disposing of them. These devices can still be smoldering and could start a fire if placed in a trash receptacle.

(Springfield, Ore.) June 24, 2022— PacificSource Health Plans announces that long-standing president and CEO Ken Provencher will retire on March 31, 2023. Provencher has served as PacificSource’s president and CEO for 21 years, and is only the fifth PacificSource CEO since the company’s inception in 1933. Upon his retirement he will leave behind more than 38 years of experience in the healthcare industry, with 28 of those years committed to PacificSource. The PacificSource board of directors will conduct a nationwide search for his replacement.

“I have been very fortunate and blessed to have worked with all of my PacificSource colleagues and our board during my tenure here,” said Ken Provencher, president and CEO of PacificSource. “I am extremely proud of how we have approached our work and that we have done so as an independent, not-for-profit community health plan. I also appreciate our many provider and community partners who have collaborated with us and worked diligently over the years to provide greater access to care and improve community health.”

“It has been a pleasure working with Ken in his tireless pursuit of building PacificSource into an admired organization with a focus on the health of our communities,” said PacificSource Board Chair Rick Wright. “The entire Board of Directors is happy Ken finally gets to enjoy retirement and we would like to thank him for preparing us for a bright future.”

During his tenure with PacificSource, Provencher has overseen the organization’s exponential growth in the Northwest as the company expanded its reach throughout Oregon and into Idaho, Montana, and Washington. In 2016, he oversaw the implementation of a strategic partnership with Legacy Health, resulting in an integrated approach that has elevated the quality of care to members and patients, and allowed PacificSource to serve as the health insurance provider for Legacy’s benefit-eligible employees and their families. He also led the company’s biggest Medicaid membership expansion in 2020, adding more than 200,000 members and bringing the organization’s total membership to over 600,000 individuals to date. 

Provencher joined PacificSource in 1995 as provider contracting director, was promoted to vice president operations in 1996, and then served as interim CEO in 2000 before being officially appointed to president and CEO in 2001. Prior to joining PacificSource, he served as vice president of VHA Upstate New York, a 15-hospital healthcare system. He also served as administrative director for United Health Services Network and director of finance and operations for HMO of North Carolina, a Blue Cross/Blue Shield subsidiary.

About PacificSource Health Plans:

PacificSource Health Plans is an independent, not-for-profit community health plan serving the Northwest. Founded in 1933, PacificSource has local offices throughout Idaho, Oregon, Montana, and Washington. The PacificSource family of companies employs more than 1,600 people and serves over 600,000 individuals throughout the Greater Northwest. For more information, visit PacificSource.com.

Today, the Supreme Court overturned nearly 50 years of precedent and eliminated the constitutional right to abortion, stripping people of the right to control their own bodies.

Planned Parenthood leaders in Oregon will hold a virtual press conference in response to this decision at 1pm today. To RSVP please email kristi.scdoris@ppcw.org.

By overturning Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court has now officially given politicians permission to control what we do with our bodies, deciding that we can no longer be trusted to determine the course for our own lives. This dangerous and chilling decision will have devastating consequences across the country, forcing people to travel hundreds, sometimes thousands, of miles for care or remain pregnant. 

But make no mistake: This decision goes beyond abortion. This wrongful ruling is about who has power over you, who has the authority to make decisions for you and who can control how your future is going to be. This is the first time the Supreme Court has gone back on an individual right it previously established. It is a dark day for our country, but this is far from over. We will not compromise on our bodies, our dignity or our freedom.

The court’s decision goes against the will of the American people, 80% of whom support legal abortion. In Oregon, voters have opposed every ballot measure to restrict access to abortion; the most recent attempt, 2018’s Ballot Measure 106, was defeated 64.5% to 35.6%.

While the right to an abortion is safeguarded in state statute, Oregonians will be directly affected by the end of Roe vs. Wade. A study by The Guttmacher Institute indicates that Oregon health centers could experience a 234% increase in out-of-state patients from states like Idaho where abortion will be immediately outlawed. An analysis in The New York Times indicates that Eastern Oregonians could see a 35% reduction in abortion access, forced to drive hundreds of miles to the nearest provider in Bend. 

The consequences of this devastating decision will fall largely on people who already face the greatest barriers to health care because of this country’s legacy of racism and discrimination, including Black, Latinx and Indigenous communities; people with low incomes; LGBTQ+ people; immigrants; and people living in rural areas.

Abortion is still legal in Oregon. Planned Parenthood health centers — with supportive  doctors, nurses and expert staff — continue to provide the care and resources you’ve come to rely on. We believe all people should have the right to control their own body, life and future — no matter where they live. Every day in every way, we’ll stop at nothing to make sure people have access to the essential health care they need.

Even with today’s devastating decision, abortion is still legal in many parts of the country. People who need care should go to abortionfinder.org.

June 24, 2022

Media Contacts: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@odhsoha.oregon.gov 

Abortion remains legal, accessible in Oregon in wake of Supreme Court ruling

Decision has no effect on Oregon’s Reproductive Health Equity Act that guarantees right to receive abortion, health care providers’ right to provide it

PORTLAND, Ore. — Following a U.S. Supreme Court decision today that overturns Roe vs. Wade, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is reminding people that abortion remains legal in the state.

The Reproductive Health Equity Act (RHEA) was established in 2017 after the Oregon Legislature passed House Bill 3391. The landmark legislation contained multiple provisions to both protect and expand access to the full scope of reproductive health services, including abortion, for all people in Oregon. RHEA enshrined into state law an individual’s right to receive an abortion, as well as a health care provider’s right to provide an abortion.

“The decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Roe vs. Wade does not change the fact that people in Oregon are guaranteed the right to receive abortion services, which remain legal in this state,” said OHA Director Patrick Allen. “OHA will continue to implement and promote RHEA to ensure that people in Oregon have access to essential reproductive health services, including abortion, sterilization and contraceptives, without any barriers.”

This includes a legal right for anyone who comes to Oregon for an abortion, not just Oregon residents.

While the abortion rate has declined across the country in the last 30 years, the need for abortion care has recently been on the rise, according to Guttmacher Institute, which found the abortion rate increased by 7% from 2017 to 2020. In Oregon, the abortion rate declined by 21% during this time.

Oregon is one of 16 states and the District of Columbia that has laws that protect the right to abortion, and is just one of four states and the District of Columbia that has ensured the right to abortion without any restrictions or state interference. Oregon also is one of only seven states that funds abortions, using state general funds under the Oregon Health Plan (OHP), the state’s Medicaid program, without any restrictions.

In 2017, RHEA further expands access to abortion by requiring health benefit plans regulated by the state of Oregon to cover abortion services without any cost sharing to its members. It also provides coverage for abortion services for people not eligible for the Oregon Health Plan because of their immigration status, including those with DACA status, those with no documentation, and people with legal permanent resident status who have not met the five-year waiting period for OHP eligibility.

And abortion access will continue to expand with the Oregon Legislature’s passage earlier this year of House Bill 5202, which allocates $15 million in state general funds to advancing reproductive health equity. The funds will be distributed by OHA to Seeding Justice, a grant-making organization, to establish the Reproductive Health Equity Fund, which will invest in culturally specific health outreach and education programs around the state that benefit patients, health care providers and community advocates.

Individuals can access free or low-cost reproductive health services at local health departments, Planned Parenthood clinics, federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics across the state. To find a clinic, visit: healthoregon.org/rhclinics, dial 211, or text HEALTH to 898211.

On Thursday, June 23, 2022, the Oregon State Police (OSP) Southwest Region (SWR) Drug Enforcement Section (DES) team, assisted by the Josephine Marijuana Enforcement Team (JMET), served an illegal marijuana search warrant in the 600 block of Pinewood Way, Cave Junction, Josephine County. 

As a result, 3,944 illegal marijuana plants contained in seven (7) large, industrial sized greenhouses, were located, seized, and ultimately destroyed. Additionally, the property is subject to multiple code violations through Josephine County Code Enforcement, for unpermitted structures, multiple unpermitted electrical installations, and unpermitted excavation. Josephine County will move forward with legal action against the property owner which could result in closure of the property for one calendar year (illegal drug cultivation) and possible civil forfeiture.

The investigation is on-going and no further information is available at this time.

What: On June 28, the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Aviation Unit and Northwest Oregon Area will be hosting a media day at their annual Fire Boss amphibious single-engine airtanker training. This training gives our boots-on-the-ground firefighters the opportunity to meet the pilots, become familiar with the aircraft and its capabilities, and get practical experience in air-to-ground communications.  

Details and Visuals: The Fire Bosses will arrive at Hillsboro Airport mid-morning for an orientation to the aircraft and a question-and-answer session. 

After lunch, the aircraft will fly to Henry Hagg Lake to start the practical portion of the training. Washington County Parks personnel will be on-hand to help clear the lake of boaters for their safety and the safety of the Fire Bosses’ pilots. Hagg Lake has been used in the past as a water source for aircraft engaged in wildfire response, including helicopters and Fire Bosses. 

There will be several opportunities for interviews throughout the day with trainees and instructors. 

When: Tuesday, June 28, 2022

Starting Location: Hillsboro Airport, 3355 NE Cornell Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97124
Secondary Location: Henry Hagg Lake, Parking Land, Gaston, OR 97119

Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Hillsboro Airport
           1 p.m.- 3 p.m. at Henry Hagg Lake

So we can plan appropriately, please RSVP by 12 p.m. June 27 by emailing Jessica Prakke, ODF Public Affairs, at akke@odf.oregon.gov">jessica.prakke@odf.oregon.gov. 

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Mercedes “Bow” Dunnington, age 16, a child in foster care who went missing from Sunriver on June 23, 2022. She is believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Bow and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see her.

Bow is believed to be traveling to Bend and is known to spend time at the local parks, gas stations and homeless encampments in Bend. She also goes by the name Katie. 

Name: Mercedes “Bow” Dunnington
Pronouns: She/her
Date of birth: Jan. 10, 2006
Height: 5-foot-6
Weight: 187 pounds
Hair: Dyed blond 
Eye color: Green
Other identifying information: Bow was last seen wearing a fleece red and black button up jacket with a hood.
Sunriver Police Department Case #2022-00003269
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #1453942

A small number of children in foster care may be in significant danger when they run away or have gone missing. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and ensure their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year. 

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Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from June 19 to June 22, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in each of the samples collected on June 19 and June 21. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on June 20 or June 22. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on June 15, 2022.

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 portland.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 Quality 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.

The Tigard Police Department is investigating a stabbing where a 15-year-old boy reportedly stabbed another 15-year-old boy.

Just before 3:30 PM today, officers were called to Cook Park for an assault with a weapon. Responding officers found a 15-year-old victim who had been stabbed. He was rushed to the hospital and is in stable condition.

Witnesses immediately identified the suspect, who was located nearby by responding officers. He was safely taken into custody and is being transferred to the Donald E. Long Juvenile Detention Center on charges of assault II and unlawful use of a weapon.

Because he is a juvenile, the name of the suspect is not being released at this time.

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A joint message from:  the Oregon Student Association; the Oregon Community College Association representing Oregon's 17 community colleges; the Oregon Council of Presidents representing Oregon's eight public universities; and the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities representing 13 Oregon independent non-profit colleges and universities.

June 23, 2022, Marks the 50^th Anniversary of the Federal Pell Grant. The Oregon Opportunity Grant enjoyed its 50^th Anniversary in 2021.  

A campaign to #DoublePell is underway. It has bipartisan public support and will help more students earn a degree, get good-paying jobs, and graduate with less debt. At a press conference held today to commemorate the event, Oregon State Treasurer Tobias Read said, “Funding financial aid for students creates opportunities and is really important for the Oregon economy. Pell Grants are the federal government’s main tool for helping lower-income students and families access high education. Unfortunately, the funding levels have not kept up with costs. If I’ve learned anything in my work as Treasurer, it’s that there is no better investment than in the potential of rising young people.”

With the help of a Pell Grant and other student aid, Nicole Paredes-Cisneros recently graduated debt-free from the University of Oregon with two undergraduate degrees. Paredes-Cisneros is a first-generation student and stated that the Pell grant for her provided a sense of relief, sending her the message that “we’ve got it covered, just go and make us proud.” She urged Congress to double the amount of Pell Grants that are transformational and create opportunity for all students. She described the grants  as “a light, a light that’s motivated students to reach for the sky, day-by-day”.  

Chemeketa Community College student McKinzie McBride said, “The Pell Grant and scholarships that I have received widened the door of possibilities for me and my family. As a full-time mother, employee, and now student, completing college will be one of my greatest accomplishments in life and I am so thankful for having some of the financial burden relieved. The Pell Grant has helped make my dreams come true.”

“The Pell Grant has made college more affordable and will help me graduate without the burden of significant student loan debt,” said Ian Curtis, a senior at Willamette University. “As the costs associated with attending college increase, the Pell Grant must increase as well. The Pell Grant program is a strategic investment in the future of our nation. It is time to double the Pell Grant and invest in a program that will yield strong returns in the years to come.” 

A video of today’s press conference can be seen here.​

SALEM, Ore. – Jun. 23, 2022 – Yesterday, the Marion County Board of Commissioners approved the 2022-23 county budget, totaling $692,644,391. This is the largest budget ever approved by the county, largely due to an influx of one-time state and federal funding.

Nearly $68 million of the county funding is from American Rescue Plan Act dollars, allocated to projects intended to support critical urban and rural infrastructure, create or improve community spaces, and benefit low- to moderate- income residents.

Additionally, the commissioners approved an incoming funds Intergovernmental Agreement Land Acquisition Grant with Oregon Housing and Community Services for $1,706,500 to purchase seven parcels of land totaling more than 15 acres for a Mill City housing project. This land will be used to build permanent housing for victims of the 2020 Labor Day fires based on their income level.

“We have been diligently working to overcome barriers to this project for over a year, and I can’t express how moved I am to finally to see it coming to fruition,” said Chair Danielle Bethell.

“Families who lost everything in the fires who long to return home to their community will see that desire become a reality, and it’s really a testament to the hard work of county staff to support these individuals. While homes still need to be built on this land, the land purchase itself is a tremendous first step toward that goal.”

For more information, contact the Board of Commissioners Office at (503) 588-5212 or email s@co.marion.or.us">commissioners@co.marion.or.us.

Vancouver, Wash. – The swearing-in ceremony for Jeff Mori, Vancouver’s 25th police chief, will be held Thursday, June 30 at Vancouver City Hall (415 West Sixth St.). The chief will be sworn in at 5 p.m. and a reception will follow. 

“We look forward to having the leadership skills of Jeff Mori in place to guide the Vancouver Police Department as it evolves to meet the needs of our changing community,” said City Manager Eric Holmes. “His clear strategy for the future of community safety in Vancouver along with his commitment to accountability and transparency, are all qualities we must have in the next person to fill this critical position.”   

“I am honored and humbled to be Vancouver’s next police chief. My enthusiasm for the law enforcement profession remains my motivation as I move into this very important leadership role,” said incoming Police Chief Jeff Mori. “I am committed to the safety of the residents of Vancouver and to the officers serving the Vancouver Police Department. Building trust and transparency with both internal and external stakeholders is a priority as we continue to grow the department and expand community relationships with those we serve.” 

Mori brings more than 29 years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience to the role, including nine years as Undersheriff for Washington County, Oregon and most recently three years as Assistant Chief of Police for the Vancouver Police Department. 

What: Swearing-in ceremony for Vancouver’s new Police Chief Jeff Mori        

Where: Vancouver City Hall, 415 West Sixth St. 

When: 5 p.m. Thursday, June 30 

The public is welcome to attend; community members are asked to RSVP to Amanda Delapena.  

The ceremony can be viewed live on CVTV Comcast channels 23/323HD, CVTV.org or the City and CVTV Facebook pages. 

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OREGON VIRTUAL ACADEMY
NOTICE OF REGULAR SESSION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JUNE 28, 2022 @ 6:30 p.m.
Oregon Virtual Academy Board Members are hereby notified that a Regular Session of the Board will be held via Zoom Webinar at
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87254322950
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 301 715 8592

Need to know

• Most Oregonians who receive SNAP benefits will continue to receive temporarily increased emergency food benefits in July
• Approximately 422,000 SNAP households will receive approximately $68 million in extra food benefits in addition to their regular SNAP benefits
• These emergency benefits are a temporary support that Oregon can provide because of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency
• Find resources to meet your basic needs: Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org 
• Oregon Department of Human Services COVID-19 help center 

(Salem) – Most Oregonians who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will receive emergency allotments in July.

The federal government has approved emergency allotments every month since March 2020. This gives SNAP recipients additional support during the COVID-19 pandemic. These emergency benefits are a temporary support that Oregon can provide because of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency.

Because the federal government approved these emergency benefits for July, Oregon will also be able to issue them in August. However, the emergency benefits are expected to end when the federal public health emergency ends.

In July, approximately 422,000 SNAP households will receive approximately $68 million in extra food benefits in addition to their regular SNAP benefits.

“We know that many rely on these additional emergency food benefits to get enough healthy food for themselves and their families,” said Claire Seguin, deputy director of the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Self-Sufficiency Programs. “We also know that many Oregonians are still struggling to meet their basic needs and we encourage them to contact our partners at 211 and the Oregon Food Bank for support during this difficult time.”

Current SNAP households will receive emergency allotments on July 12. Emergency allotments will be issued July 29 or Aug. 2 for households who did not receive benefits in the first monthly issuance.

SNAP recipients do not have to take any action to receive these supplemental benefits as they will be issued directly on their EBT cards. 

More information about emergency allotments is available at https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/ASSISTANCE/FOOD-BENEFITS/Pages/Emergency-Allotments.aspx.

Questions about your SNAP benefits should be directed to the ONE Customer Service Center at 1-800-699-9075.

If your household receives SNAP and your income or the number of people in your household has changed, it could impact your benefits. It is important to make sure ODHS has the most up-to-date information. 

You can report any changes to your income or household in many ways: 

• Online at: ONE.Oregon.gov
• By mail at: ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309
• By fax at: 503-378-5628
• By phone at: 1-800-699-9075 or TTY 711

Resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or www.adrcoforegon.org.
• Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org 
• Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: www.caporegon.org/find-services/ 
• Oregon Department of Human Services COVID-19 help center 

Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 million eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities. Oregonians in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/benefits/Pages/index.aspx . For local resources in your area, such as food or shelter, please call 2-1-1 or reach out to the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 1-855-ORE-ADRC or 1-855-673-2372.

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On Wednesday, June 22, 2022, the Oregon State Police (OSP) Southwest Region (SWR) Drug Enforcement Section (DES) team, assisted by the Illegal Marijuana Enforcement Team (IMET) of the Medford Police Department and Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, served an illegal marijuana search warrant in the 11000 block of East Antelope Rd. Eagle Point, Jackson County.

As a result, 2,864 illegal marijuana plants contained in ten (10) greenhouses, were seized. Also located and seized were 209 pounds of processed marijuana bud packaged for sale on the black market, eight (8) firearms, body armor and over $10,000.00 in US Currency. Two (2) individuals were detained, identified, and interviewed.

Jackson County Code Enforcement also responded to the property for multiple code violations. A total of $66,000.00 in fines were levied on the property owner for violations of unapproved greenhouse structures, multiple unapproved electrical installations, unapproved marijuana production, prohibited camping within a marijuana grow site and solid waste.

The investigation is on-going and no further information is available at this time. 

This investigation has been forwarded to the Clark County Prosecutor's Office for review. Pending forensic lab reports from the Washington State Crime Lab, there is no further information to release at this time.

###

-The Clark County Major Crimes Unit is currently actively investigating this incident. There are no updates at this time. We expect to provide a media release later this week.  

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 On 6/13/2022 at approximately 7:04 PM, Clark County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a 911 call of an assault with a firearm. The caller stated he had shot his roommate at their residence at 33510 NE Kelly Rd. The caller reported to 911 an altercation had occurred where both individuals had drawn firearms, an alleged exchange of gunfire occurred, resulting in the death of the roommate.

     Upon arrival to the residence Sheriff Deputies detained a cooperative male subject without incident. Sheriff Deputies located a deceased male in the residence with injuries consistent with gunfire.  Medics responded, declaring the male deceased. The deceased male was taken by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s office. The deceased name is not being released pending official identification and next of kin notification. 

     The Clark County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit is on scene, and this is an active investigation and no arrest have been made at this time. There is no additional information currently due to the ongoing nature of the investigation. There are no outstanding suspects and no danger to the public regarding this incident.

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Salem, Ore. – Marion County’s recount of ballots in the Ward 4 Salem City Council race verified the original count in the narrow race between Dynee Medlock and Deanna Gwyn. A runoff vote in the November 8 general election is planned. 

Just six votes separate the two candidates, not enough to provide the 50 percent-plus-one-vote margin needed to win. Medlock received 2,554 votes to Gwyn’s 2,548 with 13 write-in votes. 

Ward 4 covers the south-central area of Salem.

Remaining City election results: 

Mayor (including Polk and Marion counties)                       

Chris Hoy: 19,178

Chane Griggs: 15,371

Write-ins: 211

Ward 2 (Marion County)

Linda Nishioka: 2,255

Write-ins: 25

Ward 4 (Marion County)                                                               

Dynee Medlock: 2,554

Deanna Gwyn: 2,548

Write-ins: 13

Ward 6 (Marion County)

Julie Hoy: 1,199

Stacey Vieyra-Braendle: 1,054

Write-ins: 11

Ward 8 (Polk County)

Micki Varney: 3,176

Chris Cummings: 2,995

Write-ins: 10

Municipal Judge (including Polk and Marion counties)

Eleanor Beatty: 22,142

Write-ins: 230

# # #

June 23, 2022

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459,

timothy.heider@dhsoha.state.or.us

Measure 110 Oversight and Accountability Council has approved BHRNs in more than half of all county regions for drug treatment and recovery services

The Measure 110 Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC) approved one additional Behavioral Health Resource Network (BHRN) on Wednesday, June 22, for Wallowa County with an investment of $750,000. The OAC has now approved 19 out of 36 counties.

The funds for the 19 approved BHRNs now total nearly $72 million. To date, nearly $114 million has been allocated in support of Measure 110, including Access to Care (ATC) grant funding.

OHA has developed a statewide map visualization that shows the BHRNS that have been approved for funding; (in orange) along with those that have been selected by the OAC (in blue) and are in negotiations for funding approval.

See OHA’s robust new dashboard showing the BHRN approval and funding progress being made to date. OHA will continue to provide frequent updates on the funding process.

Other M110 funds to be disbursed

A three-month extension was offered to ATC grantees through Sept. 30, 2022.

Twenty-eight of the original 66 recipients received first-round extensions for a total of $5,725,054.93. Fifty-four of the original 66 recipients requested second-round extensions, and of those, 41 were found eligible for additional funds, totaling $4,356,343.

The additional funds are in the process of being disbursed, bringing the total ATC funds to be disbursed to approximately $41.6million. 

These funds will prevent a lapse of funding or interruption of service for grantees while the OAC continues to review and approve applications. 

ATC grantees comprise 70 substance use treatment programs that provide treatment, housing, vocational training and other life-changing support services. 

Read more about Measure 110

Background: In November 2020, Oregon voters passed Measure 110, the Drug Addiction Treatment and Recovery Act of 2020, which became effective on Dec. 4, 2020, to better serve people actively using substances or diagnosed with a substance use disorder. In July 2021, the legislature passed SB 755, which amended the act and made it more feasible to implement.

People who provide drug treatment and recovery services and advocates for criminal justice reform wrote Measure 110 in response to the high rate of drug addiction and overdoses in Oregon, and the disproportionate impact of those outcomes on Oregon’s communities of color.

Their goal was to establish a more equitable and effective approach to substance use disorder. OHA is working with the Measure 110 Oversight and Accountability Council to develop a first-in-the-nation health-based approach to substance use and overdose prevention system, which is more helpful, caring and cost-effective than punishing and criminalizing people who need help.

####

WHAT: 
Staff and executives from the City of Hillsboro, Hillsboro Hops, and Mortenson will be available to discuss the selection of the Design-Build Team for Ron Tonkin Field.

WHO: 
K.L. Wombacher – President and General Manager, Hillsboro Hops 
Sean Morrison – Capital & Development Division Manager, City of Hillsboro 
Dan Mehls - VP and GM, Mortenson

WHEN: 
Thursday, June 23 from 4:30 pm – 5 pm

WHERE: 
Ron Tonkin Field

                    TIP OF THE WEEK

Date:          June 23, 2022                       FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:      Sheriff Curtis Landers

                   541-265-0654

                   lcsheriff@co.lincoln.or.us

                                                             OUTDOOR GRILLING SAFETY

There's nothing better on a summer day than cooking out on the grill! Since there are many different types of grills, we would like to share some safety tips for whatever you're planning to cook on whatever grill you will be using. These helpful tips come from the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org/education.

• Propane and charcoal grills should ONLY be used outdoors. They should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and overhanging tree branches.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and trays below the grill.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
• Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using your gas grill each year. You can do this by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose. If there is a leak, the gas will cause it to release bubbles.
• If your grill has a gas leak, turn off the grill. If the leak does not stop, get it serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If you smell gas while you're cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do NOT move the grill.
• If you use starter fluid with your charcoal grill, use only charcoal starter fluid; always keep it out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• When you are finished grilling, let the charcoals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container.
• Most importantly: NEVER leave your grill unattended.

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

At approx. 3:45pm today 911 calls began to come in to CRESA about a man that had fallen from the mid span of the I5 bridge into the Columbia River. One of the callers was on the shore near the Red Lion Quay and had eyes on the subject and was providing directions to responding units through the dispatcher. He had reported the male that fallen from the bridge was now holding onto pilings and a log in front of the Red Lion in extremely swift water. Vancouver fire Department arrived with 3 land-based units, and 3 members aboard the fire boat. It took the crew on the fireboat 8 minutes to arrive on the scene. The crew of Fireboat 1 Discovery spotted the male subject weak and falling off the log and made an invasive maneuver to rescue the victim in an area of extremely strong current forcefully pushing the boat from the side. This maneuver required precise operation of the 46’ boat as seen in the attached video. Once the victim was pulled from the river and aboard the fire boat, he was transported to a waiting AMR ambulance and taken to the hospital for his injuries.       

Tualatin Valley Water District (TVWD) will convene a Special Board meeting Tuesday, June 28, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. 

This meeting is only available via phone or the web. If you would like to attend, please email katherine.desau@tvwd.org or call 503-848-3078 by 4:00 p.m. on June 28, 2022. 

The agenda and additional information regarding TVWD are available here.

About TVWD 

TVWD serves about 217,700 customers in parts of Washington County, Oregon. Our service area covers more than 41 square miles including portions of Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard and unincorporated Washington County.

TVWD is the managing agency for the Willamette Water Supply System (WWSS), an additional water supply for the region which is being constructed in partnership with the City of Hillsboro and the City of Beaverton. The WWSS includes intake facilities, over 30 miles of pipes, a water treatment plant and two storage reservoirs. The system will deliver fresh, high-quality, treated water from the Willamette River to 400,000 Washington County residents and businesses, and is being built to the highest seismic safety standard to recover quickly after a major earthquake. The investments in the system will provide reliable, quality drinking water for generations to come.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Health has lifted the closure at Vancouver Lake but has issued a warning for the swim beach. Health officials continue to advise against swimming or wading at the Vancouver Lake swim beach. Public Health has also lifted the warning for the Battle Ground Lake swim beach.

Vancouver Lake

Public Health closed Vancouver Lake to swimming and wading on Friday, June 10 due to elevated levels of E. coli bacteria. Public Health has continued to monitor the swim beach. Test results from water samples collected on Tuesday showed water quality has improved, but E. coli bacteria levels were still elevated in one of five samples. The other samples had bacteria levels within acceptable water quality standards. 

While the Vancouver Lake swim beach is no longer closed, Public Health advises against swimming and wading, especially for young children who are more likely to accidentally swallow water. Some E. coli bacteria can cause serious gastrointestinal illness if water is accidentally swallowed. People who have contact with the water at the swim beach should rinse off after.

Battle Ground Lake

Public Health issued a warning for the swim beach at Battle Ground Lake on Thursday, June 16 after routine testing showed elevated levels of E. coli bacteria. Test results from water samples collected on Tuesday showed improved water quality, prompting Public Health to remove the warning advisory.

Public Health will collect water samples at all three Clark County swim beaches (Vancouver Lake, Battle Ground Lake and Klineline Pond) on Monday, June 27. Test results and information about current advisories are available on the Public Health public beaches website.

Wednesday, June 22, 2022-Woodland, WA-Each year, Woodland Public Schools invites staff and community members to nominate school employees whose efforts have exceeded expectations for the annual Employee of Excellence awards. 

The awards recognize individual employees for creating a positive, caring, and productive school environment through exceptional effort, dedication, or performance in their areas of responsibility. During the past year, constantly changing health guidelines made for challenges for all employees across the district to overcome.

This year’s Employee of Excellence Award Winners are Kelly Beasley, Kady Gates, Jodi McLendon, Sandy Owens, and the entire district-wide Nursing Staff.

Award winners were recognized by Superintendent Michael Green and Assistant Superintendent Asha Riley during an end-of-year staff gathering where each recipient was presented with a plaque recognizing their contributions.

WEA – Kelly Beasley

Following are a few comments from those who nominated Kelly:

• Kelly goes above and beyond for students, parents, and staff. She advocates for students in need and helps them get shoes, clothes, deodorant, and other supplies.
• Kelly’s students respect and adore her. She cares for her students and her students feel loved. She encourages her students and pushes them to strive for the best. Overall, Kelly is a phenomenal teacher and person.
• Kelly goes out of her way to ensure her students succeed. She’s a kind and amazing teacher. My son loves her class and enjoys learning from her. She makes him want to do his best. Woodland’s students are blessed to have a teacher that is so supportive to their education and to them as students. As a parent, I feel blessed to have my son in her class.
• Our family has been blessed to have Mrs. Kelly Beasley teach all three of our kids. Two out of our three kids have been placed in her advanced math class through the years. While our two boys struggle with reading and have been diagnosed with dyslexia and are on a 504 Plan, they excel at math partly because of Kelly’s support.

WSA – Jodi McLendon

Following are a few comments from those who nominated Jodi:

• Jodi is always kind and respectful. She demonstrates this by how she greets parents, cares for students, and responds to the community. She is an anchor that helps to hold the school steady during difficult times.
• Jodi is organized and professional. Not only does she complete tasks, she goes the extra mile and does a great job in a timely manner. Her sense of humor and commitment to the district continue to be commendable!
• Jodi comes in each day and serves our kids with empathy and kindness. There have been multiple instances of her going above and beyond to try and help students and their families. She has dedicated her life to those in Woodland, and I truly do not think there is anyone more deserving than her. 

KWRL – Kady Gates

Following are a few comments from those who nominated Kady:

• Kady is always positive, upbeat, happy, and willing to go the extra mile every day.
• Kady does everything. She is the first to jump on route or anything. When people in the office get things screwed up, they come to her to pull their butts out of the fire. She gets it done, even forgoing family life from time-to-time if that’s what it takes to get the job done.
• Kady puts this job ahead of everything. She wears many hats and keeps the bus transportation running, all while trying to stay sane.
• Kady is kind and considerate in her daily communications, helping us drivers to effectively complete our routes and look forward to coming back to work each day. She honestly cares about everyone.
• Kady is always on. She always has a happy face, she’s always kind and helpful, and she’s always a pleasure to be around even though she comes to work before 5 a.m. Kady picks up the slack and stays late, if needed. She is someone you don’t want to say “no” to and is an absolute pleasure to work with.

SEIU – Sandy Owens

A few comments from those who nominated Sandy:

• Sandy is very helpful; considerate to all adults and kids; and always has a great attitude! Also, she is here for the kids!
• Sandy makes herself readily available, going wherever she is needed, and doing so at all times. She’s a positive happy face for the kids.
• Sandy is constantly going above-and-beyond in her job duties for her colleagues and students. She’s an all-around amazing person who definitely deserves recognition.

Hero Award – Nursing Staff

A few comments from those who nominated the Nursing Staff:

• Our health room members have had a heck of a year juggling normal health room duties with the stresses and responsibilities that COVID has delivered.  They have screened, monitored, tested, contact traced, and navigated sometimes very difficult situations with grace, humor, and diligence.
• The health room team is a major reason each school was able to stay fully in-person during the dark days of Delta and the even darker days that were brought by the beast known as Omicron.
• Our nurses have been our health warriors throughout COVID. They spend their days testing and then spend nights and weekends contact-tracing. They never complained. They’re amazing!
• Our nurse carried a huge load through the pandemic. She has done so effectively, keeping student well-being at the forefront of all she does, and maintained an incredibly positive attitude. She has been, in a word, amazing.
• Our school nurse handled an extremely stressful job with both tenacity and grace. She endured such incredibly difficult circumstances and remained so positive through it all. I am amazed by her poise under-pressure, and she deserves the absolute highest of accolades.

Woodland Public Schools accepts nominations for the Employee of Excellence Awards from both staff and community members throughout every school year from its website at www.woodlandschools.org/employee-of-excellence.

Learn more about how Woodland Public Schools educates our students and serves the community, by visiting our dedicated news webpage at www.woodlandschools.org/news/wsd

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OREGON CITY - The Clackamas Community College Environmental Learning Center is hosting a star-gazing party on Sunday, July 3, 9-11:30 p.m. on its Oregon City campus.

The Rose City Astronomers will be on hand sharing views of the night sky through their telescopes. This event is free and open to the public. Participants are invited to bring chairs, binoculars and blankets to the athletic fields near the Environmental Learning Center.

If skies are cloudy that night, call Rose City Astronomers at 503-594-6044 to see if the event is canceled due to poor sky conditions. Clackamas Community College is located at 19600 Molalla Ave. in Oregon City.

About the Environmental Learning Center

The Environmental Learning Center has a rich history as an educational resource for Clackamas Community College, regional schools, industry and the community. Located on the former site of a Smucker's processing plant, the center was created to demonstrate what people could do to reclaim industrial sites, address stormwater issues and restore wildlife habitats in urban areas. Each year thousands of people visit to explore the 5-acre site and learn about watershed health. The site serves as an important stormwater facility for the college campus and provides critical wetland habitat for resident and migratory birds, such as the great blue heron, wood duck and merganser. For more information about the Environmental Learning Center, visit www.clackamas.edu/ELC. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 22, 2022

MEDIA CONTACT: Gail Krumenauer
State Employment Economist 
(971) 301-3771 

May 2022 Employment and Unemployment in Oregon’s Counties

In May, unemployment rates declined in 33 of Oregon’s 36 counties. Unemployment rates in three counties did not decline, but held steady over the month. Thirteen counties had unemployment rates at or below the statewide and nationwide rate of 3.6% in May.

Klamath County had Oregon’s highest seasonally adjusted unemployment rate (5.3%) in May. Other counties with relatively high unemployment rates were Grant (5.2%), Curry (4.9%), and Lincoln (4.9%). Benton, Hood River, and Wheeler counties registered the lowest unemployment rates in May, at 2.9% each. Other counties with some of the lowest unemployment rates in May included Washington (3.0%), Sherman (3.1%), and Gilliam (3.2%).
Between May 2021 and May 2022, total nonfarm employment rose in each of the six broad regions across Oregon. The Willamette Valley region experienced the fastest job growth over the year at 4.1%. Employment also grew at a relatively fast pace in the five Portland-metro counties (3.7%) and Central Oregon region (3.3%). Growth occurred at a slower pace along the Coast (1.3%), in Eastern Oregon (0.8%), and in Southern Oregon (0.7%).

Next News Releases
The Oregon Employment Department will release statewide unemployment rate and industry employment data for June 2022 on Wednesday, July 20, 2022. The June 2022 county and metropolitan area unemployment rates will be released on Tuesday, July 26, 2022.

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The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. Everyone has a right to use OED programs and services. OED provides free help. Some examples are sign language and spoken language interpreters, written materials in other languages, braille, large print, audio and other formats. If you need help, please call 971-673-6400. TTY users call 711. You can also ask for help at OED_Communications@employ.oregon.gov.

A total of 347 students made the Clackamas Community College honor roll and 828 students made the president's list for spring term 2022.

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

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Note: Attached are the honor roll and president’s list and cities of residence.

Correction: The vote closes June 23, not July 23. 

NURSE PRESS CONFERENCE: 

Thursday, June 23

1 p.m.  PT

Oregon Nurses Association – Third Floor Conference Room

18765 SW Boones Ferry Rd. 

Tualatin, OR 97062 

Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) nurse leaders from Providence St. Vincent Medical Center and other Portland-area Providence hospitals will announce vote results from Providence St. Vincent’s Tentative Agreement ratification vote and answer media questions about next steps. We will also stream the conference live on our main Facebook page. Please contact Scott Palmer or Myrna Jensen to attend the press conference in person or to ask a virtual question. 

(Portland, OR) - ONA nurses at Providence St. Vincent are currently voting on a tentative contract agreement with Providence. The vote closes Thursday, June 23. Nurses will announce the vote results during Thursday’s press conference at the ONA offices at 1 p.m. 

If nurses at Providence St. Vincent vote to ratify the tentative contract agreement it will take effect immediately and avert a strike at St. Vincent. If nurses vote not to ratify, the ONA nurse bargaining team at Providence St. Vincent may return to negotiations or move towards a strike. 

The 1,600 frontline nurses working at Providence St. Vincent are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA). 

In May, ONA nurses at Providence St. Vincent voted nearly unanimously to authorize a strike against Providence to protest Providence’s illegal unfair labor practices (ULPs) and demand a fair contract that improves patient care, raises nurse staffing standards, makes health care more affordable and addresses Providence’s growing staffing crisis. ONA nurses at Providence Milwaukie Hospital and Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center in Oregon City have also authorized unfair labor practice strikes against Providence–Oregon’s largest health care system and one of the state’s largest employers. 

The results of the vote at Providence St. Vincent does not impact nurse contracts or strike preparations at the other two Providence hospitals. If strikes are called at any ONA-represented hospital, nurses will provide Providence with a 10-day notice to allow Providence’s management adequate time to cease admissions and transfer patients or to reach a fair agreement with nurses and avert a work stoppage. 

ONA represents more than 4,000 frontline nurses working in 10 Providence Health System facilities from Portland to Medford including multiple Oregon hospitals where Providence has allowed nurse contracts to expire, including Providence St. Vincent, Providence Milwaukie, Providence Willamette Falls, and Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital. 

ONA nurses have volunteered their time to meet with paid Providence managers more than 50 times over the last eight months to bargain multiple contracts at Providence's Oregon hospitals. ONA frontline nurses throughout Oregon are asking Providence for basic safety standards and common-sense proposals to protect our patients, our coworkers and our families including stronger patient safety standards, safe nurse staffing, affordable health care, paid leave, and a fair compensation package that enables the hospital to recruit and retain the skilled frontline caregivers our communities need to stay healthy and safe. 

BACKGROUND: 

Providence St. Vincent Medical Center is one of the largest hospitals in Oregon and is the most profitable hospital in Providence St. Joseph’s vast multistate, multi-billion dollar health system. Nurses’ vote on the tentative agreement at Providence St. Vincent follows historic strike votes by nurses and one of the largest informational pickets in recent Oregon history. On March 15, more than 700 frontline nurses who work at multiple locations within the Providence Health System led an informational picket outside Providence St. Vincent Medical Center about raising health care standards for nurses, patients, and our communities. Supporters included nurses and other health care professionals, along with labor, religious and community leaders, and elected officials including Oregon gubernatorial candidate Tina Kotek, Multnomah County Commissioner Sharon Meieran, MD, and multiple Oregon state representatives.

• Click here for photos from ONA Nurses’ Informational Picket at Providence St. Vincent https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/zyj8jt15cgm8v81hakjy4/h?dl=0&rlkey=jia1alng0en9g2x2le2dczahw

ONA nurses continue to bargain multiple open contracts with Providence St. Joseph–the multi-state, multi-billion dollar health care giant. On May 4, ONA nurses at Providence St. Vincent voted nearly unanimously to authorize a strike at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center—one of Oregon’s largest and most profitable hospitals. 

On June 3, frontline nurses at Providence Milwaukie Hospital in Milwaukie and Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center in Oregon City voted overwhelmingly to authorize strikes against Providence. Providence has never faced a strike in Oregon. The unprecedented strike votes are to protest Providence’s illegal unfair labor practices (ULPs) and demand fair contracts which improve patient care, raise nurse staffing standards, make health care more affordable and address Providence’s growing staffing crisis.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is the state’s largest and most influential nursing organization. We are a professional association and labor union which represents more than 15,000 nurses and allied health workers throughout Oregon. ONA’s mission is to advocate for nursing, quality health care and healthy communities. For more information visit: www.OregonRN.org.

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Red Cross sees about a 21% decline in blood and platelet donations during holiday weeks

Portland, Ore (June 22, 2022) — As summer officially begins and people gather for holiday celebrations, the American Red Cross reminds communities that patients are counting now on the generosity of blood and platelet donors, especially around the Fourth of July. 

The Red Cross sees about a 21% decline in blood and platelet donations during holiday weeks, including Independence Day. When blood donations drop, so does the blood supply, making it extremely challenging to ensure blood is available when hospitals and patients, like 4-year-old Olivia Enders of West Linn, need it.

Olivia was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) in August 2021. She has received 20 blood transfusions as part of her treatment.

“We often think of transfusions for emergencies but forget about the need for blood transfusion for people and children battling long term diseases and cancers. Every transfusion gives Olivia another chance at life and continued success at battling her cancer and being a kid again,” says Olivia’s mother, Sarah Enders.

By scheduling and keeping appointments in July, donors can help provide for those in immediate need of lifesaving care. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). 

As a thank-you for helping, all those who come to give June 30-July 10 will receive an exclusive Red Cross recycled cotton tote bag, while supplies last. 

A few upcoming blood donation opportunities July 1-15:

July 1

• Portland Blood Donation Center, 3131 N. Vancouver Ave., Portland, OR, 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• The Grove, 3955 Outward Rd. SE, Salem, OR, 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

July 5

• Portland Playhouse, 602 NE Prescott St., Portland, OR, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Vancouver Mall Macy’s, 8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr, Vancouver, WA, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Medford Blood Donation Center, 1174 Progress Dr, Suite 102, Medford, OR, 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

July 6

• Topgolf, 5505 NE Huffman St., Hillsboro, OR, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Salem Blood Donation Center, 1860 Hawthorne Ave. NE, Salem, OR, 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

July 8

• The Grotto, 8840 NE Skidmore St., Portland, OR, 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• Vancouver Blood Donation Center, 5109 NE 82^nd Ave., Vancouver, WA, 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

July 12

• Springfield Elks, 1701 Centennial Blvd., Springfield, OR, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter your zip code to find additional blood donation opportunities near you.

Click here for b-roll of people giving blood. Additional images of Olivia and her mom, Sarah, are attached.

Health insights for donors 

At a time when health information has never been more important, the Red Cross is screening all blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American donors for the sickle cell trait. This additional screening will provide Black donors with an additional health insight and help the Red Cross identify compatible blood types more quickly to help patients with sickle cell disease. Blood transfusion is an essential treatment for those with sickle cell disease, and blood donations from individuals of the same race, ethnicity and blood type have a unique ability to help patients fighting sickle cell disease.    

Donors can expect to receive sickle cell trait screening results, if applicable, within one to two weeks through the Red Cross Blood Donor App and the online donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org.  

Blood drive safety 

The Red Cross follows a high standard of safety and infection control. The Red Cross will continue to socially distance wherever possible at blood drives, donation centers and facilities. While donors are no longer required to wear a face mask, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason. The Red Cross will also adhere to more stringent face mask requirements per state and/or local guidance, or at the request of blood drive sponsors. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at a drive.  

Oregon and Washington still require face masks be worn at all blood drives and donation sites.

How to donate blood

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

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

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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For Immediate Release                                                                               Contact: Courtney Dodds 

June 20, 2022                                                                                                         Cell: 971-275-2334

Union Gospel Mission Breaking Ground on New Home for Homeless Women and Children

Portland, Ore., - Union Gospel Mission is hosting a groundbreaking celebration on Wednesday, June 22^nd for their new home for women and children. This new home will provide long-term recovery housing and care for women and their children who are experiencing, homelessness, addiction and abuse.  

Event Information: The groundbreaking will take place on June 22^nd at 1pm at 18555 NW Rock Creek Blvd, Portland, OR 97229

Sadly, Union Gospel Mission turns away women every month who are seeking safety from domestic violence, help for addiction, and healing from trauma. This new home will be 52,000 square feet, with 52 rooms allowing UGM to double its capacity to serve more than 2,000 women and children in the coming decade. 

This new facility will be equipped with incredible spaces for healing and transformation. It will include spaces for community building, onsite counseling, parenting classes, a children's education center, a chapel, and more. It will create spaces where community and healing can naturally occur. By alleviating barriers to services and designing an environment that allows women to feel supported and loved, they can commit to intensive services and make a significant commitment to restoration.

UGM plans to open the new home in 2023. The cost of this project is $17.8M to build and furnish. To date, UGM has raised just over $14M. 

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

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Celebrate the holiday with a bang at the Oaks Park 4th of July Spectacular! Admission includes all-day access to all of the rides, free first-come, first-serve picnic grounds, and Portland's best fireworks display!

Admission: $36 per person

Everyone ages 3 and older must have a ticket to enter the park including non-riders. Kids 2 and under are free.

For kids ages 3-9 years old, admission also includes a souvenir American flag (while supplies last) and two (2) scrip, each valid for one (1) game, one (1) cotton candy, or one (1) ice cream treat!

Ticket quantities are limited. Tickets are only available online in advance; tickets will not be available at the gate.

• Gates Open: 11 AM
• Rides Operate: 12 PM-12 AM
• Fireworks: 10 PM

All picnic areas are first-come, first-served. Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are welcome; outside alcohol is prohibited. Games, mini golf admission, concessions, and merchandise sold separately. The Roller Rink is closed on July 4, 2022. Fireworks proudly presented by Swire Coca-Cola.

As directed by the Oregon Legislature through House Bill 4157, the Oregon Department of Revenue will begin distributing One-Time Assistance Payments of $600 to more than 236,000 qualifying households later this week. Payments will be received by direct deposit or by check by July 1, 2022.

To qualify households must have received the Earned Income Tax Credit on their 2020 tax filing and lived in Oregon the last six months of 2020. 

The One-Time Assistance Payments will be deposited directly to the bank accounts of 136,640 recipients and checks will be mailed to 99,647 recipients. Households that receive a direct deposit will also be mailed a letter explaining the payment. Households that receive a paper check will include information about the payment on their check stub.

A total of nearly $141.8 million is expected to be distributed to 236,287 qualifying recipients.

As directed by the Oregon Legislature through House Bill 4157, the Oregon Department of Revenue will begin distributing One-Time Assistance Payments of $600 to more than 236,000 qualifying households later this week. Payments will be received by direct deposit or by check by July 1, 2022.

To qualify households must have received the Earned Income Tax Credit on their 2020 tax filing and lived in Oregon the last six months of 2020. 

The One-Time Assistance Payments will be deposited directly to the bank accounts of 136,640 recipients and checks will be mailed to 99,647 recipients. Households that receive a direct deposit will also be mailed a letter explaining the payment. Households that receive a paper check will include information about the payment on their check stub.

A total of nearly $141.8 million is expected to be distributed to 236,287 qualifying recipients.

Current information on payments being delivered and paid amounts

Eligible households                         236,287                                                           $141,772,200

Payments by direct deposit            136,640                                                            $81,984,000

Payments by paper check               99,647                                                            $59,788,200

For more questions, access our frequently asked questions on Revenue’s OTAP webpage or you can email onetime.assistancepayment@dor.oregon.gov

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Northeast Oregon Water Association Oregon Association of Nurseries Oregon Cattlemen’s Association Oregon Dairy Farmers Association Oregon Farm Bureau Oregon Water Resources Congress Water for Life, Inc.

Agricultural Water Alliance Forms Amid Persistent Drought to Tackle State Water Issues

Decades of insufficient investment in infrastructure and ongoing regulatory uncertainty have imperiled Oregon’s food and water supply

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 22, 2022
Contact:Greg Addington
eg@addingtonconsulting.net">greg@addingtonconsulting.net
541-892-1409

SALEM, OR – Today, several agricultural organizations announced the emergence of a new alliance to focus on strategic water investments and common-sense policies that will promote water and agricultural sustainability. This comes as much of Oregon continues to face historic drought conditions and as supply chain issues and global food insecurity concerns grow.

Members of the newly formed Oregon Agricultural Water Alliance (OAWA) include the Oregon Farm Bureau, Oregon Cattleman’s Association, Oregon Association of Nurseries, Oregon Dairy Farmers Association, Oregon Water Resources Congress, Northeast Oregon Water Association, and Water for Life Inc.

The alliance formed a steering committee and contracted with a consultant, Greg Addington, from Oregon’s Klamath Basin, who has experience in organizational operations and state water policy. Priorities identified by the alliance include shifting state water policy to focus on an adequate, safe, and affordable food supply and growing other environmentally beneficial agricultural products; creating more water storage (above and below ground); building drought resiliency; interstate cooperation in water supply and management; demanding more agency accountability; and reducing costly and unnecessary litigation.

Addington, who spent a decade working on Klamath Basin water issues, cited the newly formed group’s recognition that a more coordinated approach from the agricultural community is needed.

“Agricultural producers and water suppliers are struggling with extreme and reoccurring drought, labor shortages, and exponentially rising costs. These challenges are exacerbated by regulatory uncertainty and a lack of investment in storage capacity to safeguard our most basic need—water,” said Addington.

Additional goals established by the coalition include educating policymakers on the importance of forward-looking water policy, advocating for investment in water supply, creating viable pathways to water project implementation, conducting educational tours for legislators and agency staff, and informing the public about the importance of irrigated agriculture to the state’s health and prosperity.

Across the State of Oregon, farmers and ranchers produce over 240 commodities that supply Oregon, the United States, and beyond with critical elements of the agri-food chain. Collectively the OAWA members represent a broad spectrum of individuals and entities including water delivery districts that serve nearly 600,000 acres and over 14,000 producers of food and fiber in Oregon.

(Salem) – Recently the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Office of Training, Investigations and Safety (OTIS) proposed changes to Administrative Rule 407-044-0310, regarding OTIS investigations into allegations of abuse at child-caring agencies, schools, daycares or by a third party.

ODHS is committed to transparency and recognizes the role transparency plays in identifying and preventing the abuse of children. 

“Unfortunately, our previous statements and communication about this proposed rule change were inaccurate,” said ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht. “This caused confusion about our intentions and many have expressed concern during the public comment period for this proposed rule change. We apologize for the confusion our previous communications have caused and we want to make certain that everyone understands this proposed rule change and why we have proposed it.”

Current ODHS practice related to OTIS investigations of child abuse
Currently ODHS maintains confidentiality of records related to open OTIS investigations. This protects the integrity of open investigations. 

Records related to completed OTIS investigations are available through public records requests. 

Impact of the proposed rule change
The proposed rule does not change current ODHS practice. 

The proposed rule change formalizes current ODHS practice by prohibiting the disclosure of records related to an open investigation of child abuse conducted by OTIS. 

This proposed rule change will not impact the disclosure of completed OTIS investigations and completed investigations will continue to be available through public records requests.

Intent of the proposed rule change
ODHS’ intent behind this proposed rule is to provide clarity and transparency to the public that records related to open OTIS investigations cannot be disclosed until an investigation is completed. This rule change may prevent a potential loss of federal funding due to the current lack of clarity on protecting confidential information while an OTIS investigation is still open.

Status of the proposed rule change
ODHS is committed to seeking and considering feedback from all interested members of the public about this proposed rule change. The public comment period for this proposed rule change as been extended to July 11 at 5 p.m. The public can share their concerns or feedback on this proposed rule change in writing by emailing Michelle.h.pfeiffer@dhsoha.state.or.us. 

Once the public comment period has ended ODHS will thoroughly consider all public comment submitted, and will share this feedback with the Oregon Legislature. ODHS’ intention is to ensure that it is following their direction and intent when in regards to the transparency of OTIS investigations. 

About the Oregon Department of Human Services
The mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity. 

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SALEM, Ore. — June 22, 2022 — Following a wet and cool spring, Oregonians are eager to get outside this summer to hike, camp, boat and explore. Several state agencies and organizations are sharing best practices on how to keep the adventures safe, for people and Oregon’s scenic landscape. 

Search and Rescue 

State Search and Rescue (SAR) Coordinator Scott Lucas emphasized the need for people to be prepared and equipped before they head outdoors. “Our SAR teams have rescued many folks who have a certain idea of the outdoors based on what they’ve seen on reality TV,” said Lucas. “While eager to explore and adventure, these folks are often inexperienced, overconfident and unprepared for the reality of the situation. In the summer months, we find people who set out for a hike wearing flip flops and shorts and carrying no water. They might take an unmarked trail or get disoriented, and they could be lost for days.” 

Lucas stressed the importance of checking the basics like weather and road conditions, packing the proper gear, and confirming the destination is open before heading out. “Many of the trails and parks people are familiar with are closed from wildfire or flood damages or from recent weather including high mountain snow,” he said. “Others haven’t been maintained for the last two years due to the pandemic. People need to respect these closures and stay out. Climbing over barriers or going past boundaries puts them at risk.” 

He added that every SAR mission takes away resources – including SAR teams, volunteers, gear and time – from the next rescue. “Know before you go may seem like obvious advice, but it makes a big difference when it comes to staying safe.” 

Oregon State Marine Board 

Sunshine and warmer weather leads many people to the water. The Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) is advocating preparation and planning through its online tools and resources that let people check water levels, obstructions, tide information, local regulations and boating access before they head out. 

“Playing in and around the water is a lot of fun but it comes with risks,” said OSMB Public Information Officer Ashley Massey. “Most incidents and fatalities are caused by falling overboard or capsizing into cold water without a life jacket or the necessary skills for self-rescue. People need to always scout ahead, mind the tide, decide on the safest route and expect the unexpected.” 

Oregon Department of Forestry 

With more than half of the state under extreme drought conditions, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) said the number one precaution recreationists can take this summer is to follow posted fire restrictions. The agency offers a searchable map of public fire restrictions on its website. 

“As we move further into fire season, campfire bans and restrictions will likely be in place, and these need to be observed to avoid starting new wildfires,” said ODF Public Affairs Specialist Jason Cox. “If a site does allow for a campfire, people need to build them in identified rings or fire pits and make sure the fire is fully out—drown, stir, and repeat until ashes are cool to the touch—before they leave.” 

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department 

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) encourages explorers to first check Oregon’s Interagency Recreation Site Status Map to confirm their destination is open, learn about any fire restrictions and make sure they have the proper permits. 

OPRD Associate Director Chris Havel encouraged anyone visiting the outdoors get to know and follow the seven principals of Leave No Trace, a set of actions that can minimize impacts on plants, animals, other people and entire ecosystems. “These seven guidelines boil down to protecting the resources, the things that call the parks home, and all the other people that hope to come and recreate behind you and have that same sense of discovery and excitement.”

Oregon Office of Emergency Management

“We want to make sure Oregonians have the information they need to make decisions for themselves and their families to safely enjoy all the incredible outdoor activities our state has to offer,” said Oregon Office of Emergency Management Director Andrew Phelps. 

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You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email public.info@mil.state.or.us. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711.

Photo Captions

Search and Rescue volunteers assist an injured person in Deschutes County (Oregon State Search and Rescue)

The Oregon State Marine Board's annual Surface Water Rescue Training offers 40 hours of on the water training, including personal survival skills, river safety, swimming in currents, throw bags techniques and shallow water crossing. (Oregon State Marine Board)

Two hikers dress appropriately as they explore Oregon's Humbug Mountain. (Oregon Parks and Recreation Department)

A mountain biker takes advantage of the trails in an Oregon forest. (Oregon Department of Forestry)

A woman and two young boys safely enjoy a campfire in Oregon's Beverly Beach State Park. (Oregon Parks and Recreation Department)

Three prepared hikers enjoy an ocean view as they hike Ecola State Park. (Oregon Parks and Recreation Department)

Deputies have located 15-year-old Alexandria “Alex” Harrison. Harrison is safe and back with her family. 

Deputies want to thank the community for their help in looking for Harrison. 

On Wednesday, June 22, 2022, around 4:45 a.m., Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a report of a missing person named Alexandria “Alex” Harrison. 15-year-old Harrison was last seen on June 22 at 4:30 am., near SW Farmington Road and SW 204^th Avenue in the community of Aloha. Harrison is 5'7", 104 lbs., and has shoulder-length dark red hair and blue eyes. Harrison was last seen wearing a light-colored sweatshirt, shorts, and slippers.

Harrison got into a white 2021 Jeep Wrangler with Washington license plate BXE0319. 30-year-old James Anthony Levina was driving the Jeep and deputies want to speak with him about the incident when he picked Harrison up this morning. 

Please contact the Washington County Sheriff's Office at 503-629-0111 or your local law enforcement agency if you know where Harrison is or if you have any information on the whereabouts of James Anthony Levina or the white Jeep Wrangler he was driving.

The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities, Oregon Community College Association, Oregon Council of Presidents, and Oregon Student Association are sponsoring a press conference at 10am on Thursday, June 23, to celebrate the 50^th anniversaries of the Oregon Opportunity Grant and the Pell Grant. Speakers will include State Treasurer Tobias Read and students attending Oregon’s Community Colleges, Public Universities and Independent, Nonprofit Universities who benefit from these important grants.

Students will share their experiences as recipients of these need-based grants and the importance of broadening this support for future generations of students. Academic research shows additional grant aid increases enrollment and has a demonstrable impact on students’ ability to stay in school.

WHAT:  50^th Anniversary of the Oregon Opportunity Grant and Pell Grant Media Availability

WHEN:  Thursday, June 23, 10 am to 10:30 am

WHERE:  Willamette University’s Ford Hall - Lobby, 900 State St. Salem, OR 97301. Link to campus map: https://willamette.edu/about/visit/pdf/campus-map.pdf.

WHO:  Oregon State Treasurer Tobias Read and students attending Oregon’s Community Colleges, Public Universities, and Independent, Nonprofit Universities who benefit from these important grants.

Increasing funding for the OOG is one of the most important actions legislators can take to provide marginalized communities with a realistic possibility of social mobility. Student financial aid programs disproportionately support BIPOC students, and we often hear from lower-income, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, rural, and students from other historically marginalized backgrounds the greatest challenge they face is financing their education. 

Doubling the Pell Grant is also good policy. It has bipartisan public support, and will help more students earn a degree, get good-paying jobs, and graduate with less debt. Investing in the Pell Grant not only increases access to opportunity, it’s a proven strategy to improve student success and retention efforts. Since its inception, 2,386,279 Oregon students have benefited from $6,187,642,682 in grant funding.

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The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (“The Alliance”) is comprised of 13 private, nonprofit, independent colleges and universities in the state of Oregon. These institutions deliver high-quality experiential learning with high-impact teaching strategies. The Alliance is the collective voice of Oregon’s independent, nonprofit higher education sector. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org.

The Oregon Community College Association (OCCA) represents the seventeen publicly chartered community colleges and their locally elected board members. Founded in 1962, OCCA is an association whose purpose is to support the colleges before policy-makers and partners whose actions affect the well-being of community colleges across the state.

The Oregon Council of Presidents (OCOP) is a voluntary association comprised of the Presidents of Oregon’s eight public universities. OCOP was formed in 2016 to foster coordination and collaboration among the Oregon public university presidents and other university officials.

The Oregon Student Association is a statewide, student-led advocacy and organizing nonprofit. OSA was established in 1975 to represent, serve, and protect the collective interests of students in post-secondary education in Oregon. We represent over 80,000 students and work to make a quality education more affordable and accessible for all Oregonians.

Springfield, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management is proposing to improve and restore habitat within the Oak Basin Prairies Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC). The proposal would enhance and expand the savannahs, prairies, and woodlands in the Coburg Hills northeast of Eugene, Oregon.

The BLM designates Areas of Critical Environmental Concern as needing special management attention. This designation allows land managers to protect important natural, cultural, and scenic resources. Oak Basin is part of the Willamette Valley Ecoregion, a large complex of prairies, oak savannas, and oak woodlands. It provides habitat to the endangered Fender’s Blue Butterfly, the threatened Kincaid’s lupine, and other BLM Special Status Species.

To inform the public and gather input on the proposal, the BLM project team will hold a second open house on Thursday, July 14. The open house meeting will run from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. and there will be a short PowerPoint presentation at 3:30 and 5:30 at Brownsville City Hall, Council Room, 255 N Main St, Brownsville, OR 97327. 

Project team members will be available to discuss the proposal, answer questions, and listen to public input.

“The first public meeting on June 17 was a great success. We had a terrific discussion with about a dozen of our neighbors. We hope that anyone who missed it will be able to attend our second public meeting in July,” said Todd Bush, Acting BLM Upper Willamette Field Manager. 

The BLM’s proposal includes a variety of options for restoring and enhancing this unique landscape. Removing conifers, like pine or fir trees, would expand meadows and reduce competition for oak trees. Controlling non-native and invasive species would help native species thrive. Planting native nectar and host plants would improve habitat for Fender’s blue butterfly.

Some of this restoration work, specifically the removal of some conifers, would be accomplished through commercial timber harvest. Parts of the Oak Basin are O&C Lands, which is land that the BLM manages under the Oregon and California Railroad Revested Lands Act. The BLM manages O&C Lands for sustained yield timber production. In this project, the removal and sale of timber will have the added benefit of improving the unique habitat of the Oak Basin.

Members of the public can submit comments via email at any time during the public scoping period, which runs from June 13 through July 15, 2022. Emails should be sent to lm_or_no_oak_basin@blm.gov">blm_or_no_oak_basin@blm.gov with “Oak Basin Prairies ACEC” in the subject line.

For more information about the project and how to submit comments, visit https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2018529/510

Public comments, including identifying information (mailing address, phone number, email address, etc.) may become public at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.

For more information, please email: blm_or_no_oak_basin@blm.gov. 

-BLM-

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The agency’s mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. Diverse activities authorized on these lands generated $96 billion in sales of goods and services throughout the American economy in fiscal year 2017. These activities supported more than 468,000 jobs. 

MEDFORD, Ore.—A Eugene, Oregon man who formerly resided in Southern Oregon was sentenced in federal court today for violating the Lacey Act by illegally importing and exporting hundreds of live scorpions.

Darren Dennis Drake, 39, was sentenced to two years’ federal probation, 250 hours of community service, and a $5,000 fine payable to the Lacey Act Reward Fund.

According to court documents, between September 4, 2017 and March 21, 2018, Drake imported and exported dozens of live scorpions from and to contacts in Germany without first obtaining an import-export license from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). On one parcel intercepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Drake falsely labeled the package contents as “chocolates.” Drake also mailed or received several hundred live scorpions from other U.S. states, including Michigan and Texas, in violation of federal mailing laws. 

On February 23, 2022, Drake was charged by criminal information with conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act. On March 14, 2022, he waived indictment and pleaded guilty to the single charge.

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

This case was investigated by the FWS Office of Law Enforcement with assistance from CBP and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is responsible for protecting America’s wildlife from poaching, illegal commercialization, and other kinds of wildlife crime. If you have information related to a wildlife crime, please call 1-844-FWS-TIPS (1-844-397-8477) or email fws_tips@fws.gov.

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The Ridgefield School District will host a Levy Information Night to provide details and answer questions about Proposition 9, the district's Replacement Educational Programs and Operations Levy that will be on the Aug. 2nd Primary & Special Election ballot.

All members of the community are invited to the public event, which will be held on Tuesday, June 28 at 6 p.m. in the Commons at the Ridgefield Administrative and Civic Center (RACC) at 510 Pioneer Street. 

At the event, school district administrators will present information and answer questions about the replacement Educational Programs and Operations Levy. More information about the levy is on the district website at www.ridgefieldsd.org/page/levy.

In May, Ridgefield School District’s Board of Directors voted unanimously to put the replacement levy on the Aug. 2 special election ballot. The levy is not a new tax, and if approved, will replace the levy that expires at the end of 2022. The local levy will allow the district to maintain educational programs and critical day-to-day school operations such as school staff not fully funded by the state, building maintenance, extracurricular activities, and more. 

Ridgefield School District has the second-lowest school tax rates of all K-12 districts in Clark County. While other districts rely on multiple levies to fund technology, transportation, capital projects and educational programs, Ridgefield funds all these aspects from a single levy. Across Washington, nearly all of the 295 districts rely on levy money to provide important student programs and services. 

Facts about Ridgefield’s Replacement Levy: 

• This is not a new tax. It is a replacement levy that will maintain the current school tax rate of $1.50 per $1,000 of assessed value.
• The Ridgefield School District has the second-lowest school property tax rate of all K-12 districts in Southwest Washington. 
• The levy will allow the district to maintain critical student programs and activities not fully funded by the state.
• The levy will be for three years, covering 2023–2025.

Providing a new way to get out on the beach and into nature for people with mobility challenges, on July 4th weekend David’s Chair Outdoor Mobility Systems is bringing seven electric all-terrain wheelchairs to Seaside’s promenade (between Broadway and Avenue A) for mobility challenged guests to try for free.

From 9am to 5pm on Saturday July 2 and Sunday July 3, people who register at https://davidschair.org can have a chance to buckle in and experience the freedom to travel along the beach without having to be concerned about the sand or water.

Anyone with mobility impairment, requiring the assistance of wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, canes or crutches, will be able to use these chairs at no charge.

David’s Chair Outdoor Mobility Systems and Oregon Parks Forever are collaborating to add 10 additional locations where mobility challenged visitors can pick up and use an electric all-terrain wheelchair at no charge.

These chairs will provide a new freedom for a mobility challenged park visitor - to get off the pavement and out into nature.

With increased accessibility to trails, lakes, rivers and beaches, through demanding conditions like sand, snow and mud, mobility-impaired visitors will be able to participate in activities never-before possible.

From birdwatching and fishing, to riding along the beach, to simply enjoying the fresh air and solitude of nature, these all-terrain chairs will invite many new people to share the wonders of the great outdoors in our parks.

See these chairs in action at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4KIrqu47WY

Over the next couple of years, the partners are working to locate hosts at American Legion, VFW and Tourism related entities along the Oregon Coast and the I-5 corridor where a chair and trailer can be stored and made available for free use by visitors with mobility challenges. 

We are doing this to provide easier access to these chairs to a wider number of people.  Under the current operating model for David’s Chair, anyone wishing to borrow one of their seven current chairs (for free) must bring a trailer hitch-enabled vehicle to Medford and pick up a chair and trailer to take where they would like to use it.  This severely limits access to other parts of the state.  One of the most popular uses for these chairs is to get out on the beach, hence our desire for host locations along the Oregon Coast.  Also, there are many parks in areas such as Springfield, Eugene, Salem and Portland along the I-5 corridor that visitors would like to access.

Reservations for free use can be made at: https://davidschair.org. 

The traveling public is advised to plan ahead and choose an alternate route around construction taking place on NE 33rd Avenue and NE Prescott Street for critical valve replacement. The intersection will be closed intermittently beginning at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 23 and continuously after 7 p.m. Friday, until completion. The work is estimated to be completed on Sunday, June 26. 

Traffic detours at the intersection of Northeast 33rd and Prescott: 

• People walking, cycling, and driving will likely be detoured at least one block east or west. 
• Detours will be posted for car traffic. Drivers will be detoured using Northeast Fremont and either Northeast 15th or Northeast 42nd. 
• If you live in the work zone, plan for it to take extra time to get to and from your house. 

Portland Water Bureau Maintenance and Construction Director Ty Kovatch says the temporary inconvenience of detours will lend to long-term benefits for our water system. 

“The new valves will improve our ability to manage water flow in North and Northeast Portland,” said Kovatch.

The Water Bureau encourages people to keep their distance from crews at work and to slow down when traveling through work zones. Changes in traffic patterns combined with the presence of workers and the frequent movement of work vehicles could lead to crashes, injuries, and fatalities.

To protect yourself and city workers from death and injury, we ask Portlanders to follow these safety steps: 

• Keep your distance. For the health and safety of everyone, please give our crews the space to complete their work while maintaining proper distance. City bureaus will send mailers or door hangers to homes and businesses in an area before major work. 
• SLOW DOWN. Speed is a major factor in crashes. If you must drive, follow the work zone speed limit. Slow down, don’t tailgate. 
• Use an alternate route. When you can, avoid streets with posted work zones. 
• Obey all speed and warning signs. Work zone signs apply to everyone traveling through—whether the person is walking, biking, rolling, or driving. 
• Be alert and look out for all road users. Put down your phone and pay attention to the road conditions ahead of you. 
• Stay clear of construction vehicles. Heavy vehicles travel in and out of the work areas and can make sudden moves. We know it’s interesting to see our machines at work, but please keep a safe distance from the work zone if you plan to watch. 
• Expect delays and be kind. Our goal is to get you through our work zone safely, while also completing our system improvements in an efficient manner. We appreciate your understanding.  

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.

The Lake Oswego School District is pleased to announce it has reached agreements with the Lake Oswego Education Association (LOEA) and the Lake Oswego School Employees Association (LOSEA) regarding new employment contracts. Both employee groups recently voted in favor of ratifying the proposed two-year contracts and the Lake Oswego School Board voted unanimously to approve the contracts at its public session on June 21.

The new two-year contracts will become effective July 1, 2022. The new contracts will replace expiring contracts that were negotiated five years ago. LOEA employees will receive a cost of living increase of 6% in the first year, and 4%, in the second year of the contract. LOSEA employees will receive a cost of living increase of 5% in the first year and 4% in the second year plus a one-time adjustment to increase gross pay an additional 6.95% in the first year and shifting the 6% Individual Account Program (IAP) contribution from a district cost to an employee deduction, which nets out to the district effectively paying 6% in costs in the first year. These increases will help the district to remain competitive as it seeks to hire and retain the best educators and staff. 

As has been the case in the past, the district and both of its employee associations have approached contract negotiations as a collaborative problem-solving process. The positive representation and leadership exhibited by all parties have produced agreements that reflect professional esteem for each other. The ability of the district and its employee associations to work together through the difficult impacts of the pandemic will benefit students, staff, and the community.

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At this morning‘s Portland City Council meeting, Commissioner Hardesty made the case for why the City of Portland should formally rejoin ODOT’s I-5 Rose Quarter project, reversing the city‘s unprecedented decision to pull out of the project in 2020. 

Commissioner Hardesty, working with regional and community partners, negotiated directly with Governor Kate Brown over the last year to create the option known as Hybrid 3. The option provides 8 acres of buildable land to reconnect the Albina neighborhood and ensures variable rate pricing will limit congestion and pollution.

The agreement council heard today would officially have Portland rejoin the project. 

Please see Commissioner Hardesty's prepared remarks below:

This hearing marks an important milestone for the City of Portland and the State of Oregon. Today, we consider not just a regional transportation project. We consider the role of transportation in the development of our city and the role of racism in shaping the look and feel - the geography - of Portland.

In 1962, ODOT dug a trench through Oregon’s largest Black community. The state destroyed more than 300 homes and businesses. It displaced the entire Albina community, forcing many people to live farther from their historic neighborhoods and families. Instead of a neighborhood, we have a trench filled with inhospitable highway traffic and pollution. All this, for the sake of making driving easier for people who live farther away.

The Black community bore the burdens of this highway and the City's failed urban renewal efforts in the area. The displacement robbed Black Portlanders of more than $1 billion in wealth, counting just the loss of home ownership. Black Portlanders now live in a diaspora across the metro area. They lack the access to jobs and services and the easy access to downtown that close-in neighborhoods enjoy.

At various times in the last 30 years, ODOT has tried to double down on its racist past. ODOT's Greeley Banfield concept would have made the trench even wider, exacerbating the pollution and other problems we face. It would have added highway lanes for regional traffic through the area. 

The City of Portland stopped that plan.

The City of Portland pushed for a project that would reconnect the community across the trench. Early promises from ODOT led the City to include the I-5 Rose Quarter Project in plans going back to 2012. In 2017, the City supported the state legislature funding the project. These were contingent on the promise that the Rose Quarter Project would reconnect the neighborhood.

Time and again, ODOT went back on its promise. 

Time and again, ODOT made the City an adviser to the project. An adviser to a project that could not be trusted.

My predecessor as Transportation Commissioner, Chloe Eudaly, started the partnership with Albina Vision Trust on this project. Albina Vision, Commissioner Eudaly and Mayor Wheeler decided to pull out of the project in 2020 because of the non-stop resistance they faced from ODOT.

Pulling out of a regional transportation project was unprecedented in modern Portland history.

Today, I am proposing that the City of Portland come back to the I-5 Rose Quarter Project. 

This is a big step. It's been a long time coming.

Over the last year, I have negotiated an acceptable compromise for re-engaging this project.

ODOT would not listen to us. So we dealt directly with Governor Brown. 

It took hours and hours of negotiation and advocacy. Hours and hours with elected officials like Metro Council President Lynn Petersen and Multnomah County Commissioner Jessica Vega Pederson. Hours and hours with community advocates and the Albina Vision Trust. 

I’m proud that we have negotiated an acceptable compromise with the “Hybrid 3” option.

This option will build highway covers that create developable land and that sustain buildings over I-5, allowing us to reconnect the historically Black Albina neighborhood. Buildable highway covers were not a part of ODOT’s original plan.

ODOT had proposed 3 and half acres of bits and pieces over I-5.

With Hybrid 3, we have 8 acres. These 8 acres will do more than cover I-5. 

These acres provide the kind of city street grid that other Portland neighborhoods take for granted. They reconnect North Flint Street and North Hancock Street -- two neighborhood streets that were amputated by the original construction of I-5.

These acres provide a platform where we can create buildings and community spaces that bring back the neighborhood. 

With this compromise, we have assurance that ODOT will use congestion pricing to manage traffic and reduce carbon emissions.

With this compromise, we have assurance that Harriet Tubman School will be moved away from the highway. I-5 never should have been built next door to Portland's historically Black middle school.

With this compromise, we have a commitment that ODOT will work with the City and the Albina Vision Trust to transfer development rights and land ownership on highway cover or remnant lands created by the project. 

With this compromise, we have the potential to set a new standard for minority and disadvantaged business contracting.

With this compromise, we have accountability. If ODOT breaks their promises again, this agreement makes it clear that we will walk away again.

This agreement expires in July 2024. It is limited to the environmental evaluation and preliminary engineering phase. In two years, the project will need to come back to City Council to make the case that ODOT has kept its promises and deserves to proceed to construction.

With all these elements, I believe this is a compromise worth supporting. 

It helps us undo the racist harm of past policies.

It helps us remake the geography of Lower Albina. It helps us begin to heal ourselves. 

It sets the stage for the next generation of Portlanders to work with the Albina Vision Trust to create the inclusive community we all want Oregon and Portland to be.

SAVE 911 CALLS FOR TRUE EMERGENCIES

During the Fourth of July holiday weekend, CRESA (Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency) asks that residents not call 911 or 311 to report fireworks. Instead they can call 360-597-7888 during the Fourth of July weekend to record fireworks nuisance complaints.  Only call 911 to report if you witness or see something on fire or if there is a medical or life-threatening emergency. Callers reporting nuisances or noise complaints around fireworks delay or block other callers with life-threatening emergencies from reaching 911. 

LAW ENFORCEMENT RESPONSE DURING FOURTH OF JULY HOLIDAY

Law Enforcement from Battle Ground, Camas, La Center, Ridgefield, Vancouver, Washougal, Yacolt and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office must prioritize their response during periods of high demand.  Illegal use of fireworks and noise complaints are most often not an emergency in nature.  

During the busy Fourth of July holiday, law enforcement often must delay or suspend their response to non-emergency requests for service in order to respond to emergency events (assault, robbery, etc.). Protecting lives and preserving property are the highest priorities.

Please do NOT call 911 or 311 to report fireworks violations

Only Call 911 about fireworks if: 

• Someone is injured from a firework

• There is a fire started by a firework

• You witness someone attempting to start a fire with a firework

• You witness someone assaulting someone with a firework

NUISANCE FIREWORKS VIOLATIONS

Most fireworks violations are nuisance related.  They are loud, being set off outside time perimeters, scaring animals, or they might even be banned in your area.  While all of these are frustrating and some are even illegal, they do not rise to the level of an emergency event.   The Clark County Sheriff’s Office will not be responding to nuisance fireworks violations. Battle Ground, Camas, La Center, Ridgefield, Vancouver, Washougal, and Yacolt responses will vary depending on available resources.

FIREWORK CALL CENTER

CRESA will once again staff a fireworks nuisance complaint call center during the Fourth of July weekend. If you wish to record a complaint related to Fourth of July activities in Clark County, please call 360-597-7888. The call center will be available July 2- 4; 8 pm -1 am.  Complaint information will be relayed to the appropriate jurisdiction.

Please do not call 911 or 311 to report fireworks violations.  

Only Call 911 about fireworks if: 

• Someone is injured from a firework

• There is a fire started by a firework

• You witness someone attempting to start a fire with a firework

• You witness someone assaulting someone with a firework

FIREWORKS RULES

Fireworks rules vary between cities and unincorporated areas as well as on local tribal reservations.  Check local agency websites to see if fireworks are legal in your area, ignition dates and times by visiting: https://clark.wa.gov/sites/default/files/media/document/2022-06/fireworks-discharge-times.pdf.  For information on what types of fireworks are legal, go to the State Fire Marshal’s website: https://www.wsp.wa.gov/fireworks/.

SALEM, Ore. – “Keep it legal, keep it safe” is the message from the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM). The 2022 fireworks retail sales season begins June 23rd and runs through July 6^th in Oregon. The OSFM would like everyone to know which fireworks are legal, where they can be used, and how to use them safely.

To reduce the risk of starting a wildfire, some local governments in Oregon have put in place regulations, perhaps including bans, on the sale or use of fireworks. It is important to check your local regulations and follow them where you live or may be traveling to celebrate the 4^th of July holiday.

“We ask that those using fireworks be responsible when using them,” Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal Assistant Chief Deputy Mark Johnston said. “Every year, we see fires started because of improper use or use of illegal fireworks. Our message is to keep it legal and keep it safe as people celebrate the holiday.”

Consumer legal fireworks can only be purchased from permitted fireworks retailers and stands. State regulations also limit where those fireworks may be used. People who plan to visit public lands and parks are asked to leave all fireworks at home. The possession and use of fireworks are prohibited in national parks and forests, on Bureau of Land Management lands, U.S. Fish and Wildlife properties, state beaches, state parks, and in-state campgrounds. The use of fireworks is also prohibited on many private lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry.

For residents who purchase legal fireworks, fire officials encourage everyone to practice the four Bs of safe fireworks use:

• Be prepared before lighting fireworks: keep water available by using a garden hose or bucket.
• Be safe when lighting fireworks: keep children and pets away from fireworks. Never use fireworks near or on dry grass or vegetation.
• Be responsible after lighting fireworks: never relight a dud. Please wait for 15 to 20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water before disposal.
• Be aware: use only legal fireworks and use them only in legal places.

Oregon law prohibits the possession, use, or sale of any firework that flies into the air, explodes, or travels more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground without a permit issued by the OSFM. Fireworks, commonly called bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers, are illegal in Oregon without a permit. Officials may seize illegal fireworks and charge offenders with a class B misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $2,500. Those who misuse fireworks or allow fireworks to cause damage are liable and may be required to pay fire suppression costs or other damages. Parents are also liable for fireworks damage caused by their children.

The OSFM has published FAQs for commonly answered questions about the sale and legal use of consumer fireworks, permits for the retail sale of fireworks, and state rules for their use and enforcement activities. OSFM’s fireworks education materials for sharing on social media also can be found on its website.

The City of Hillsboro (ballpark owner) has contracted a design-builder, Mortenson, along with SRG Partnership and Populous to expand Ron Tonkin Field to meet the new Major League Baseball (MLB) standards for a High-A Long Season ballpark. Mortenson and Populous have designed and built a long list of noteworthy sports and stadium projects, including Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle and Target Field for the Minnesota Twins. The project begins later this year.