Disaster Responders with the local chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a home fire disaster on Tuesday, September 25, 2018 at approximately 4:45 p.m. in the 24000 block of Highway 101 in Beaver, Oregon in Tillamook County.  This single-family fire affected two adults, six children and a dog.

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected, such as temporary housing, food, clothing comfort kits including toiletries and information about recovery services. Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department. 

The Red Cross in Oregon and SW Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families each day. The Red Cross Advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online application at www.redcross.org/GetAnAlarm to schedule an appointment.

On September 25 2018 at 7:45AM, Oregon State Police and Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Cape Lookout State Park. Officers were attempting to check on the welfare of Thomas Pellegrino (age 46 from Portland). 

Pellegrino was found deceased at the 9:30AM on one of the trails in the State Park. No foul play is suspected in his death. The Oregon State Police was assisted by Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office, Netarts-Oceanside Fire Department, Tillamook County Search and Rescue and Cape Lookout State Park Rangers.

No photos are available.

###

Marion County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to ORS181.507, OAR 291-28-30, which authorizes Community Corrections to inform the public when the release of information will enhance public safety and protection.

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

NAME: Brian Jackson Thomas

SID#: 12812772

DOB: 3/6/1976

CURRENT AGE: 42

RACE: White

SEX: Male

HEIGHT: 5’11”                     

WEIGHT: 246 lbs

HAIR: Brown                        

EYES: Hazel

RESIDENCE: 4882 LANCASTER DR NE #3, SALEM, OR 97305

Brian Jackson Thomas is on Post Prison Supervision for the crimes of: SODO III- 4 counts

This person was granted supervision on: 3/9/2018

Supervision expiration date is: 3/8/2020

Special restrictions include:               

[X] No contact with minors (male/female)

[X] Sex offender treatment

[X] Submit to polygraph

Other:  Thomas’ victim pool includes minor males known to him.

Linn County Sheriff Jim Yon reports that on September 21, 2018 at 4:21 p.m., the Linn County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received a 911 call regarding a 61-year-old male who was unconscious and not breathing.  Paramedics from the Tangent Fire Department responded to the 31000 block of McLagan Road in Tangent and pronounced Donald Whisenhunt, a resident of the property, deceased.  Deputies with the Linn County Sheriff’s Office were called to investigate the death.

Investigators were able to determine Donald Whisenhunt had been in a physical altercation prior to his death.  Investigators learned the physical altercation occurred around 7:00 p.m. on September 20, 2018 with Donald’s nephew, Chad Adam Cheever, 45 years of age, also a resident of the property.  An autopsy by the State Medical Examiners Office showed Donald Whisenhunt had died as a result of his injuries caused during physical altercation.

On September 25, 2018 at 10:50 a.m., investigators located Chad Cheever at the Union Gospel Mission in Salem.  Investigators interviewed Chad Cheever and arrested him on charges of Manslaughter in the First Degree and Assault in the Second Degree.  Chad Cheever is lodged in the Linn County Jail.   

This investigation is continuing.  Anyone with information on this investigation, please contact Detective John Lovik, 541-967-3950.       

On September 25th, 2018 the Newport Police Department executed a Narcotics related search warrant at a residence located at 210 NW 16th Street, Newport. Officers received information that Deborah Lynn Reed, 48, of Newport, was selling large amounts of narcotics in the Newport area, from her residence and vehicle.

Officers located Heroin, Methamphetamine, digital scales, packaging material, drug records, drug use paraphernalia, US Currency and the vehicle used to facilitate the sale.

Reed lived at the residence with her minor child, who was not home at the time the search warrant was served. During the investigation it was determined Reed would sell narcotics from her residence while her minor child was home.  

Arrested at the scene and lodged in the Lincoln County Jail was;

Deborah Lynn Reed, 48

• Delivery of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine
• Possession of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine
• Manufacturing of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine
• Delivery of a Controlled Substance – Heroin
• Possession of a Controlled Substance – Heroin
• Manufacturing of a Controlled Substance – Heroin
• Criminal Mistreatment 1
• Frequenting/ Maintaining a Place Where Controlled Substances are Kept or Used

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is seeking a person with interest or expertise in early childhood education and services for young children to serve on the Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board.

The three-year term begins immediately.

The advisory board makes recommendations to the county council relating to developmental disabilities services and issues.  Members provide leadership to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of community programs.

Clark County values diversity and encourages people with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to apply.  

The advisory board meets at 5:15 pm the first Wednesday of every month at the Center for Community Health, conference room C210, 1601 E. Fourth Plain Blvd.

To apply, please send a letter of interest and résumé to Alyssa Weyhrauch, Clark County Council, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or email to auch@clark.wa.gov">alyssa.weyhrauch@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm Monday, Oct. 24, 2018.

Around 6:30am this morning, deputies responded to a report of an assault at a home in Corbett. The suspect was located a short time later by a responding deputy who attempted to stop him near Corbett School. The suspect fled and deputies quickly setup a perimeter.

East Metro SWAT, MCSO Deputies (with help from a K9), Gresham Police Officers, and Oregon State Police Troopers have been conducting methodical searches of the area throughout the day. Area roads were closed through the afternoon and reopened at 3:00pm.

The suspect is identified as 26 year-old Pavel Mikhay. He is 6’4”, 190 lbs, and may have a cut on his face.

Mikhay should be considered armed and dangerous. If you see him, call 911 and do not approach.  The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Detective Unit is seeking any information to assist in the apprehension of Pavel Mikhay. Please leave any information on our Tip Line at 503-988-0560.

We appreciate our community’s patience during this incident. Area residents are reminded to stay vigilant. See Something Say Something.

###

September 25, 2018

Contact: Pete Edlund, 503-559-2216, .m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

CCO Metrics Technical Advisory Workgroup meets September 27

What: The regular public meeting of the Oregon Health Authority’s CCO Metrics Technical Advisory Workgroup

When: Thursday, September 27, 1-3 p.m.

Where: Five Oak (formerly Lincoln Building), Suite 850 Abraham Conference Room, 421 SW Oak St., Portland. Attendees can also join remotely through a webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8490046551954092803. Conference line: 888-398-2342, participant code 5731389.

Agenda: Welcome; updates; TAG input on health aspects of kindergarten readiness measure development; review data on DHS custody measure; 2019 TAG work plan; adjourn.

For more information, please visit the workgroup's webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/OHA/HPA/ANALYTICS/Pages/Metrics-Technical-Advisory-Group.aspx.

# # #

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

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

If you need help or have questions, please contact Pete Edlund at 503-559-2216, 711 TTY, .m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

http://bit.ly/2Q9je4T

The Clackamas River Water Providers (CRWP), a coalition of municipal drinking water providers that get their drinking water from the Clackamas River, has been working with local first responders and Water Environment Services to better respond to potential hazardous spills on the Clackamas River. Together working to develop strategies to respond and protect our drinking water source if a spill does happen.   

On Thursday, September 27th Riverside County Park will be closed from 8 am - 4 pm as we test some of our newly developed spill response strategies on the river. The CRWP will be working with NRC, a spill response contractor, Clackamas Fire District #1, Water Environment Services, DEQ and other partners to actually put boats and booms into the river to respond to a mock hazardous material spill. 

"A hazardous material spill in the Clackamas Industrial Area is an area of particular concern," says Kim Swan, Water Resource Manager for the Clackamas River Water Providers. This is because many of the businesses in the industrial area are less than a quarter of a mile away from the Clackamas River and because of the hundreds of storm drains and four small tributary creeks (Rock, Sieben, Carli, and Cow Creeks) that drain this area and flow into the river just upstream of four drinking water intakes. 

Testing and practicing the response strategies we have developed to see how well they work while identifying areas where we might need to make changes is critical to protecting our drinking water infrastructure. It also gives us an opportunity to build stronger relationships with our local, state, and federal first responders to protect our drinking water.  

With funding from a State Revolving Fund Drinking Water Protection Grant, the CRWP has been developing a Hazardous Spill Prevention Program for businesses located within the Clackamas Industrial area to receive free or discounted spill prevention and response equipment, and free technical assistance.

Leaves will fall. With cooler weather and changing seasons fast approaching, residents are encouraged to bring in their leaves for free disposal at a designated drop-off site. The popular fall leaf coupon program, provided by City of Vancouver and Clark County public works, is back to help residents keep leaves out of streets, preventing clogged stormwater drains and localized flooding.

This year’s coupons are good from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, allowing extra time to take care of fallen leaves, even during the holiday season. Vancouver and Clark County residents can drop off up to 5 cubic yards of leaves at the designated sites listed on the coupons. Loads of leaves must be covered, and bags must be emptied out at the disposal site. Please note: Branches and other yard debris, as well as mixed loads of leaves and other yard debris, are not covered by the coupon and will be charged at the regular disposal price.

Printed coupons are required and must be filled out to be eligible for free disposal of leaves. Remember: Drop-off sites don’t have coupons, so residents should plan ahead and get their coupons before heading out with a load of leaves. Coupons can be found at a variety of locations:

?-–?Printed in the Waste Connections recycling newsletter sent to all households in Clark County this fall

?-–?Available for printing from the City’s Solid Waste webpage at: www.cityofvancouver.us/solidwaste. Coupons in Spanish, Russian and Vietnamese are also available from the City website.

?-–?Available for printing from Clark County Public Works’ webpage: www.clark.wa.gov/public-works/leaf-disposal

?-–?Printed coupons available at Vancouver City Hall, City of Vancouver Utility Services, and other City offices.

Below are the designated disposal sites for this year's leaf coupon program. Please call ahead for holiday hours.

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

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

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

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

In Vancouver, property owners are responsible for managing the leaves from their trees. The City does not pick up leaves or offer a for-fee service to do so. Deliberately raking or blowing of leaves into the street and leaving them in the street is unlawful. Street sweepers are no match for big, wet, heavy piles of leaves, which lead to stormwater pooling in streets when fall and winter rains return.

The free leaf disposal program is intended to provide options for local residents with a lot of trees. Other options for leaf disposal include on-site composting or subscribing to Waste Connections’ yard debris collection services at www.wcnorthwest.com or by calling 360-892-5370. 

View our video showing how residents and the City of Vancouver work together to manage fall leaves: http://youtu.be/GnYLr6EpERs.

PORTLAND, Ore. – Ralph Dean Arnold, 61, of Portland, was sentenced today to 33 months in federal prison for orchestrating a multi-year scheme to defraud unclaimed property owners held in California, resulting in a loss to victims of more than $1.5 million. Arnold was ordered to pay more than $1.54 million in restitution.

“Many states have established unclaimed property registers designed to protect personal financial property until it can be returned to its rightful owners. Misusing this information and fraudulently assuming other’s identities to collect money are serious crimes, plain and simple,” said Billy J. Williams, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “I’d like to thank the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the entire investigative team for working tirelessly to bring this defendant to justice on behalf of the victims.”

“This case is especially egregious as the defendant victimized individuals in desperate need of the life changing funds he stole. Our dedicated team of fraud investigators work tirelessly with the Department of Justice to investigate complex mail fraud cases like this one seeking to separate postal customers from their money,” said Tony Galetti, Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Seattle Division.

According to court documents, between 2012 and 2017, Arnold engaged in a lucrative scheme to defraud unclaimed property owners listed on the California Controller’s Office website. Arnold used information from the website to pose as individuals or organizations seeking to claim money and property from various insurance companies, financial institutions, estates and businesses. California state law requires certain entities to report and submit their customers’ unclaimed money to the controller’s office when there has been no activity on an account for a period of time, usually three years.

The most egregious of Arnold’s individual frauds involved the Farmers New World Life Insurance Company. Farmers issued life insurance policies to an individual who was later murdered. The policyholder’s wife and named beneficiary was deemed ineligible to collect the policy proceeds after she was convicted of conspiring to murder her husband. Farmers attempted, without success, to locate the legal guardians of the policyholder’s children and the proceeds went undistributed to the true owners for four years.

In 2012, Arnold contacted Farmers posing as the executor for the policyholder’s estate. As was common in many of Arnold’s frauds, he claimed Farmers did not possess the estate’s current address because it had been moved and the postal forwarding had expired. He produced false and fraudulent letters testamentary to Farmers to prove his executorship and, in September 2012, received a payout of more than $278,000.

Over a five-year period, Arnold received approximately 442 payments totaling more than $1.5 million. He received proceeds intended for more than 300 different payees and issuedby more than 200 different financial entities, estates and businesses. A total of 49 payments, of the 442, were payable to the estates of deceased persons. Arnold spent at least $500,000 of his criminally-derived proceeds on day-trading, a compulsive form of gambling.

Arnold previously pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud and one count of money laundering in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1341 and 1957 on June 13, 2018.

USPIS investigated this case with assistance from the Oregon Department of Financial Regulation and the National Insurance Crime Bureau. It was prosecuted by Clemon D. Ashley, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

# # #

On September 24, 2018, Beaverton Police officers arrested 52-year-old Thomas Ray after he harassed a train operator at Beaverton Transit Center and assaulted an officer.

At 9:47 p.m. on September 24th, Beaverton Police officers responded to Beaverton Transit Center regarding Mr. Ray who harassed a train operator.  Prior to officers’ arrival, Mr. Ray left on a bus and subsequently caused a disturbance on that bus.  The bus stopped at SW Lombard/SW Canyon due to the disturbance Mr. Ray was causing.    

The first officer arrived on scene and was speaking to Mr. Ray in the parking lot of Natural Foods Grocer.  As a second officer approached, Mr. Ray assaulted the first officer, to the extent, the officer needed medical attention.  Mr. Ray continued to resist arrest as more officers arrived.  Mr. Ray was finally taking into custody and transported to Washington County Jail. 

The first officer was taken to a local hospital and later released.  The full extent of the officer’s injuries will not be known until a later date.  Another officer suffered minor injuries during the incident.

Mr. Ray was charged with Assaulting a Public Safety Officer, Assault in the Forth Degree, Interfering with a Police Officer, Harassment and Interfering with Public Transportation. 

##BPD##

Battle Ground Police Officers invite community members to join them for National Coffee with a Cop Day on Wednesday, October 3 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm.

Coffee with a Cop sessions provide an opportunity for an open dialogue between Battle Ground Police and the community in a friendly and informal setting.   While a tour of the station is available, there is no specific topic for this session - the department wants to hear from and talk to Battle Ground citizens about what matters most to them. 

Citizens of all ages - decaf, regular and non-coffee drinkers alike - are encouraged to attend.  The Battle Ground Police Station is located at 507 SW 1st Street. 

Officer Trent Elms was recently presented with the Battle Ground Police Department’s Life Saving Medal for his skilled observation and swift action that saved the life of a 26 year-old man.   

In February of this year, Officer Elms was dispatched to a medical assistance call with a request for an AED.  Because police officers are often the first to arrive at a scene, all Battle Ground police vehicles are equipped with a defibrillator; officers also carry and are trained in the use of Naloxone - a lifesaving medication designed to block the opiate receptors in one’s nervous system.  

Officer Elms was the first to arrive at the scene where he observed a man, 26 years of age, on the floor of his home unconscious; his brother was applying chest compressions.  The patient was purple in color and he did not appear to be breathing.  Further evaluation by Officer Elms indicated he needed to administer Naloxone to the patient immediately – paramedic units were still in route.  Within one minute of administering the medication, the young man’s skin began fading from blue to pink again, and within five minutes, he regained consciousness and was able to respond to questions.  

Battle Ground Police Officers were first equipped with and trained on the use of the Naloxone in October of 2017.   The February 2018 call in which Officer Elms saved the man’s life, was the first deployment of the lifesaving medication within the Battle Ground Police Department. 

In the attached picture from left to right:  Battle Ground Police Chief Bob Richardson, Officer Trent Elms, and Lieutenant Mike Fort

• Around 11:30 am this morning, Dallas Fire & EMS responded to a gas leak near the intersection of SE Arizona and SE Birchwood. A Public Works crew was working on upgrading the water line in this area and hit an unmarked gas line. NW Natural responded to assess and repair the damage.  No injuries were reported and no residents were evacuated.   

On September 24, 2018, at approximately 1:27 p.m. Oregon State Police and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department responded to the report of multiple subjects who had been stabbed on Highway 140 near MP 24.   

Officer’s located the vehicle, a white Dodge Caravan with North Carolina plates, near MP 4 on Highway 140. 

Three passengers in the vehicle were determined to have stab wounds and were transported by ambulance to the Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford. 

Antonie Eugene Kirby (32) and Jemario Deronte Richardson (30) both from Winston Salem, NC, were treated for injuries and released.

Marcus Earl Taylor (34) from Winston Salem, NC, received life threatening injuries and was transported by Mercy Flights Air Ambulance to Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland where he is listed in critical condition. 

The suspect, identified as Kevin Juwan Reed (35) from Winston Salem, NC, exited the vehicle (near Hwy 140 mile post 24) and left prior to officer’s arrival.  He was located approximately 45 minutes later near mile post 30 on Highway 140.  Reed was taken into custody without incident and later lodged at the Jackson County Jail on one count of Assault in the First Degree and three counts of Assault in the Second Degree, bail is listed at $400,000.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone who may have observed the Dodge Caravan with North Carolina plates or Reed, described as a black male adult, height 5’9”, weight 165 and wearing a white t-shirt, blue jeans and no shoes in the area of Highway 140 is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Southern Regional Dispatch Center at 541 776-6111 refer case number SP18-359029.        

The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is pleased to announce the graduation of its 381st Basic Police Class.

The Basic Police Class is 16-weeks in length and includes dozens of training areas including survival skills, firearms, emergency vehicle operations, ethics, cultural diversity, problem solving, community policing, elder abuse, drug recognition, and dozens of other subjects.

Basic Police Class 381will graduate at the Oregon Public Safety Academy at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE in Salem, Oregon on Friday, October 5, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. with a reception immediately following the graduation.  Chief Brian Greenway of the St. Helens Police Department will be the speaker. 

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training would like to invite you to join us in observing the ceremony and congratulating Basic Police #BP381 on their successful completion of basic training.

The graduating students appreciate the family, friends and guests who make graduation an appropriate conclusion to their basic training at the Oregon Public Safety Academy.

Graduating members of BP381:

Police Officer Jacob Anderson

Cannon Beach Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Isaac Bailey

Clackamas County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Carson Bartlett

Forest Grove Police Department

Police Officer Jonathan Basulto

Beaverton Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Bryant Benitez

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer David Berney

Springfield Police Department

Police Officer Cindyjo Boungnavath

Beaverton Police Department

Police Officer Vincent Boutwell

Newport Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Winston Brown

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Cameron Butler

Gladstone Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Melissa Canning

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Deputy Sheriff Trever Cooley

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Cody Crawford

Corvallis Police Department

Police Officer Joshua Croissant

Beaverton Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Shannon Dix

Linn County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Brian Dunn

Springfield Police Department

Police Officer Carolyn Eide

West Linn Police Department

Police Officer Shawn Fleming

North Bend Police Department

Police Officer Santiago Garcia Gonzales

The Dalles Police Department

Police Officer Michael Gaskell

Beaverton Police Department

Police Officer Brian Greidanus

Ashland Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Brandon Guzman

Washington County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Jonathan Hart

Grants Pass Dept of Public Safety

Police Officer Brittany Hester

Monmouth Police Department

Police Officer Hailey Holm

Scappoose Police Department

Police Officer Adam Johnson

Hillsboro Police Department

Police Officer Kit Lommen

Port of Portland Police Department

Police Officer Elijah Merkwan

St. Helens Police Department

Police Officer Taylor Nopson

Tualatin Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Anachai Promma

Multnomah County Sheriff's Office

Police Officer Marco Ramirez

Hillsboro Police Department

Police Officer Kyle Sahnow

Beaverton Police Department

Police Officer Steven Savage

Grants Pass Dept of Public Safety

Police Officer Jacob Severson

Beaverton Police Department

Police Officer Donald Sheldon

Corvallis Police Department

Police Officer Cara Stuva

Gresham Police Department

Police Officer Alex Tobey

Hillsboro Police Department

Police Officer Evan Wheaton

Tualatin Police Department

Police Officer Dallas Wilson

Warm Springs Police Department

Deputy Sheriff Brett Winders

Washington County Sheriff's Office

## Background Information on the DPSST ##

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

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

Earlier this month, the SAIF board of directors announced two dividends for more than 47,000 employers: a $120 million primary dividend to be paid to SAIF's policyholders, and a $40 million safety performance dividend to be paid based on each policyholder's safety results.

Policyholders in Multnomah County will be receiving $29.2 million this year—an average of $3,361 per employer. That does not include universities or state agencies. The checks will be mailed next month.

Read the press release for more information on this year’s dividends.

Earlier this month, the SAIF board of directors announced two dividends for more than 47,000 employers: a $120 million primary dividend to be paid to SAIF's policyholders, and a $40 million safety performance dividend to be paid based on each policyholder's safety results.

Policyholders in Clackamas County will be receiving $13.9 million this year—an average of $3,339 per employer. That does not include universities or state agencies. The checks will be mailed next month.

Read the press release for more information on this year’s dividends.

Earlier this month, the SAIF board of directors announced two dividends for more than 47,000 employers: a $120 million primary dividend to be paid to SAIF's policyholders, and a $40 million safety performance dividend to be paid based on each policyholder's safety results.

Policyholders in Washington County will be receiving more than $16 million this year—an average of $3,399 per employer. That does not include universities or state agencies. The checks will be mailed next month.

Read the press release for more information on this year’s dividends.

Earlier this month, the SAIF board of directors announced two dividends for more than 47,000 employers: a $120 million primary dividend to be paid to SAIF's policyholders, and a $40 million safety performance dividend to be paid based on each policyholder's safety results.

Policyholders in Yamhill County will be receiving more than $3.4 million this year—an average of $2,841 per employer. That does not include universities or state agencies. The checks will be mailed next month.

Read the press release for more information on this year’s dividends.

Earlier this month, the SAIF board of directors announced two dividends for more than 47,000 employers: a $120 million primary dividend to be paid to SAIF's policyholders, and a $40 million safety performance dividend to be paid based on each policyholder's safety results.

Policyholders in Lincoln County will be receiving more than $1.4 million this year—an average of $2,020 per employer. That does not include universities or state agencies. The checks will be mailed next month.

Read the press release for more information on this year’s dividends.

SALEM, Oregon – The Oregon Military Department is scheduled to formally dedicate the new Maj. Gen. George A. White Headquarters building in Salem, Oregon, during a dedication ceremony on Sept. 26, 2018, at 2:00 pm.

The facility is located at 230 Geer Dr. NE in Salem, Oregon. Decedents of Maj. Gen. George A. White are scheduled to attend the dedication. The public and media are invited to attend.

“This is a seismically sound, functional and beautifully modern building,” said Stephen Bomar, Director of Public Affairs. “It’s also to honor one of our nation’s and Oregon’s most historic military figures.”

The new headquarters building is named after Maj. Gen. White, honoring the legacy and service of the Oregon National Guard’s longest-serving adjutant general. Until the time of his passing in 1941, White had served nearly 27 years as adjutant general, dating back to Feb. 1, 1915.

Born July 18, 1880, in Long Branch, Illinois, White began nearly a half-century of service to his country by first enlisting in the Utah National Guard on August 1, 1895. After serving in the Utah artillery during the Spanish-American War, he joined the Third Infantry of the Oregon National Guard and was commissioned as a first lieutenant in August 1907. He served on active duty on the Mexican border in 1916, commanding Troop A, Oregon Cavalry, and on Sept. 10, 1917, he was assigned to the newly organized 41st Division prior to WWI. White served in France from Jan. 10, 1918, to June 18, 1919, serving both with the 41st Division and General Headquarters of the American Expeditionary Force, serving on the staff of General John J. Pershing.  

General White was one of four officers credited with founding the America Legion while in France and became the first vice-commander and adjutant while the American troops were still overseas.

He was a graduate of the Command and General Staff School, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, in 1926, and the Army War College, Washington, D.C. in 1928. White was awarded by the President of France as Chevalier, Ordre De l’Étoile Noire (Knight, Order of the Black Star) and the Cross of the Legion of Honor.

In his professional life, White first started working for the Salt Lake Tribune newspaper in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the age of 16. When White moved to Portland he worked as a journalist, and became a member of the editorial staff for The Oregonian. He later married Henrietta Diana Fletcher and they had two children.

The 41st Division was ordered into federal service to prepare for World War II on September 16, 1940. White led his troops successfully through training maneuvers in California and war games in western Washington, but died on November 23, 1941, after becoming ill.

“General White possessed, as few men did, an ever abiding love for his fellow men and an unflagging devotion for his country. Wherever the 41st Division may go, there also will he go in spirit,” said Lt. Col. John T. Murray, with the publishing of Official Order Number 31 shortly after White’s death.

In 1954, he was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Medal of the American Legion.

The new Oregon National Guard headquarters facility is 55,078 square-feet and is situated on an 8.1-acre parcel adjacent to the Anderson Readiness Center on State Street. With a total financial cost of $26 million, this Military Construction (MILCON) project is a combination of federal ($19.3 million) and state ($6.7 million) funding. The project was awarded in July 2016 to Fortis Construction Company and SERA Architects. Construction commenced in May 2017 and occupancy began in July 2018.

Facility construction meets Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold and State Energy Efficient Design (SEED) requirements. The facility is designed to ensure operational flexibility, reduce operations and maintenance costs, and will allow for future expansion. In addition, the building will meet seismic Essential Facility requirements for immediate use in emergency response following a seismic event.

The Oregon Military Department’s purpose is to administer, house, equip and train the Oregon National Guard - a ready force to support the governor and a reserve force to the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Army. The Oregon National Guard has a long tradition and history dating back to 1843. The National Guard is found in both the U.S. Constitution and the Oregon Constitution. The tradition and history of the Oregon National Guard was grounded on the basis of its motto, "When we are needed, we are there." Nearly 8,000 Soldiers and Airmen currently serve in the Oregon National Guard throughout the state, ready to respond to any contingency, natural or man-made, at home or abroad.

Earlier this month, the SAIF board of directors announced two dividends for more than 47,000 employers: a $120 million primary dividend to be paid to SAIF's policyholders, and a $40 million safety performance dividend to be paid based on each policyholder's safety results.

Policyholders in Hood River County will be receiving $1.7 million this year—an average of $2,689 per employer. Policyholders in Wasco County will also be receiving $1.7 million—an average of $3,812 per employer. That does not include universities or state agencies. The checks will be mailed next month.

Read the press release for more information on this year’s dividends.

Earlier this month, the SAIF board of directors announced two dividends for more than 47,000 employers: a $120 million primary dividend to be paid to SAIF's policyholders, and a $40 million safety performance dividend to be paid based on each policyholder's safety results.

Policyholders in Marion County will be receiving $12.4 million this year—an average of $3,311 per employer. Policyholders in Polk County will be receiving $2 million—an average of $2,988 per employer. That does not include universities or state agencies. The checks will be mailed next month.

Read the press release for more information on this year’s dividends.

Earlier this month, the SAIF board of directors announced two dividends for more than 47,000 employers: a $120 million primary dividend to be paid to SAIF's policyholders, and a $40 million safety performance dividend to be paid based on each policyholder's safety results.

Policyholders in Clatsop County will be receiving $2 million this year—an average of $2,984 per employer. Policyholders in Tillamook County will be receiving $1.5 million—an average of $3,123 per employer. That does not include universities or state agencies. The checks will be mailed next month.

Read the press release for more information on this year’s dividends.

The Clatsop County Medical Examiner, in coordination with the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, would like ask the public for any information that may help identify a man found deceased in the Columbia River on September 21, 2018.  This man was most likely last seen in early September on the Washington side of the Columbia.  We don’t currently have any missing person reports that match this man’s description.  Also, we do not have an ID, keys, or any personal effects that could help us make identification.  Our hope is by putting this out there, someone will think to check on their neighbors or friends that may be missing. Please look through the following descriptors and information:

Description

Approximately 60 year old male, unknown ethnicity

He is about 5-7, 160 lbs.

Dark hair 5 inches in length in the back, may have frontal balding

Brown eyes

No upper teeth (he may wear a plate)

Distinctive salt and pepper beard—6 inches in length and curly

No scars, tattoos, or jewelry

Clothing

His clothing is in good condition

Patagonia dark blue/purple fleece pullover

Women’s petite blue fleece vest Great NW brand

Orange T-shirt and tie dye T-shirt medium Kirkland brand

Key brand work jeans

Size 7 Denali brown hiking boots

Brown with silver metal belt with a black “lighter leash” attached

If anyone has any information or knows who this might be, please call the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office at 503-325-8635.

Earlier this month, the SAIF board of directors announced two dividends for more than 47,000 employers: a $120 million primary dividend to be paid to SAIF's policyholders, and a $40 million safety performance dividend to be paid based on each policyholder's safety results.

Policyholders in Columbia County will be receiving $1.1 million this year—an average of $2,671 per employer. That does not include universities or state agencies. The checks will be mailed next month.

Read the press release for more information on this year’s dividends.

For Immediate Release

September 25, 2018

Contacts:

Tim Pfarr, WSHA Assistant Director, Communications, timp@wsha.org

Dave Northfield, OAHHS Director of Communications, thfield@oahhs.org">dnorthfield@oahhs.org

WSHA, OAHHS partner to establish Northwest Safety and Quality Partnership

The partnership combines health care quality and safety initiatives for Washington state and Oregon

Seattle – The Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) and the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (OAHHS) have established the Northwest Safety and Quality Partnership. The new partnership combines health care quality and safety initiatives from both associations to serve all 169 hospitals and health systems in Washington state and Oregon, making health care safer for patients and caregivers in both states.

The partnership’s work will target 21 specific initiatives, including:

• Reducing opioid use and dependence
• Reducing avoidable hospital readmissions
• Improving patient and family engagement
• Fostering appropriate use of antibiotics
• Reducing infections, including sepsis and surgical site infections
• Increasing use of advance care planning, which works to ensure health care wishes are honored near the end of life (through Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest — a program operated by WSHA and the Washington State Medical Association)

The partnership will offer educational resources to hospitals and health systems in both states and facilitate collaboration to spread best practices for patients. Together, Washington state and Oregon hospitals care for patients during more than 900,000 inpatient hospital stays and nearly 26 million outpatient visits each year.

In the last two years, WSHA’s patient safety initiatives have saved millions in health care spending and averted thousands of adverse events. This includes averted of cases of sepsis, septic shock, Clostridium difficile, catheter-associated urinary tract infections and central-line associated blood stream infections.

“This nationally unique program pools the resources of the two state associations, allowing us to make a greater impact than would be possible otherwise as we work toward the common goal of improving the safety and quality of health care,” WSHA CEO Cassie Sauer said. “This partnership will allow our hospitals and health systems to collaborate across state lines and work to solve some of health care’s most pressing challenges. By learning from one another, we can improve health care throughout our entire region.”

“We are thrilled to be launching this critically important partnership, which will greatly increase the resources, tools and programming for Oregon’s hospitals to continue their work on safety and improved outcomes for our patients,” OAHHS President and CEO Andy Davidson said. “In a region where cooperation and partnership are core values, teaming up with WSHA’s award-winning program was a natural move. We look forward to great results — saving lives and reducing unnecessary harm — and sharing in the learning process along the way.”

A patient safety and quality committee consisting of hospital and health care leaders from both states will oversee the partnership’s work.

About the Washington State Hospital Association

The Washington State Hospital Association works to improve the health of all Washington state residents by being active on key issues of policy and quality. WSHA represents more than 100 hospitals and health systems in the state, including those that are non-profit, investor-owned, and county, state and military hospitals. The Triple Aim guides our members and our work, as we strive to improve the patient experience, improve the health of populations and reduce the cost of health care. Visit www.wsha.org for more information.

About the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems

Founded in 1934, the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (OAHHS) is a statewide, nonprofit trade association that works closely with local and national government leaders, business and citizen coalitions, and other professional health care organizations to enhance and promote community health and to continue improving Oregon's innovative health care community. www.oahhs.org

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Welcome to the Oregon FBI’s Tech Tuesday segment. This week: building a digital defense to keep our kids safe while they surf online.

Your kids are starting to settle back into the school routine, and, as they do, many of them are carrying phones with them to class. They are also spending more and more time online for legitimate reasons – whether it is for typing exercises, research for a speech or practicing math. While technology is an awesome tool for educators, there are steps that you can take to set your child up to be both successful and safe online.

To that end, the FBI has developed a computer literacy program called “Safe Online Surfing” or “SOS”. Teachers and administrators can utilize this program in the school setting – or parents can use it one-on-one with their children at home. The Safe Online Surfing program includes age-specific materials for grades three through eight, and it is now also available in Spanish. This program is completely free for you to use.

SOS is a series of grade-appropriate online games that allow your child to have fun while learning some important lessons. The student will explore what good online etiquette looks like, how to manage cyber bullies, and how good passwords and double authentication help keep them safe. They will learn about what they should do before downloading that new app or game onto their phone – and how to screen friend requests in a responsible way. And, they will also be able to investigate the dangers of plagiarism and privacy violations.

Here are some helpful tips for parents, as well:

• Talk to your kids about what kinds of information, photos and videos are appropriate to share – and what’s not. Remind them that even sending one picture to a friend can lead to an entire school seeing what might be a child’s most embarrassing moment.
• Teach your kids how to limit the information they put online. They shouldn’t be posting their full name, date of birth and school information on social media platforms or give it to third party vendors.
• Train your kids that free software, apps and downloads may sound great – but in some cases they can be illegal. In other cases, you are opening up your phone and computer to potential malware attacks.

If you are a parent or educator interested in learning more about the Safe Online Surfing program – go to sos.fbi.gov.

As always, if you have been victimized by a cyber fraud, be sure to report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or call your local FBI office.

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver invites the public to a community workshop being held as part of the Heights District planning process Saturday, Oct. 6.

The workshop is an opportunity for the community to review and provide feedback on three preliminary design concepts for the Tower Mall Redevelopment Area, the focal point of the Heights District Plan.

The workshop will be held in the McLoughlin Middle School cafeteria, 5802 MacArthur Blvd. in Vancouver. There will be no formal presentations, so people may arrive anytime between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Refreshments and children’s activities will be provided.

Those unable to attend the workshop can review the concepts and provide input online during the month of October. To be notified when the online version of the workshop is available, please sign up for the Heights District Plan email list at www.cityofvancouver.us/TheHeights.

The 205-acre Heights District is roughly bounded by East Mill Plain Boulevard, MacArthur Boulevard and Andresen Road. The redevelopment plan encompasses a 63-acre area consisting of properties owned by the City of Vancouver, including the former Tower Mall site (Towne Plaza), a water facility, Vancouver Fire Station 3 and the Vanco Golf Range, as well as several privately-owned properties.

The Heights District planning process will develop a future vision for this area that reflects the needs and aspirations of the people who live, work and play there. The finished plan will address the connectivity, safety and infrastructure needs of the entire 205-acre district, and make recommendations for future housing, office, retail, transportation improvements and other amenities in the district.  

The plan’s goals include increasing mixed-income housing options, adding accessible public open space, increasing connections that allow people to walk and bike to and through the area, and integrating public transit.

Public engagement is a vital component of the development of the Heights District Plan. The City hosted the first public open house in June and expects to present a draft plan at a third public forum in March 2019. A community advisory committee for the project also continues to meet regularly.

To learn more about The Heights District Plan, please visit www.cityofvancouver.us/TheHeights.

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Knute Buehler wants to claim being “pro-choice,” but he refuses to stand with pro-choice Oregonians against the appointment of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Donald Trump nominated Kavanaugh in July, fulfilling his pledge to appoint justices who would gut Roe v. Wade and the constitutional right to access abortion in this country. Since then, two women have come forward with credible allegations of sexual assault.

Buehler’s response? He’s still undecided.

Yesterday, Buehler told KATU-TV that Brett Kavanaugh “deserves to be heard.” He said, “I will reserve my judgment until after I have heard both sides deliver testimony.”

Statement from Emily McLain, Executive Director of Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon:

“Knute Buehler has waited nearly three months to comment on the most consequential Supreme Court nominee of our lifetime, and he’s still giving Brett Kavanaugh the benefit of the doubt. Let’s be clear: Brett Kavanaugh has already been heard — when he ruled to block abortion access and birth control, and when he failed to give a straight answer on whether Roe v. Wade was rightly decided.

“These serious allegations of sexual violence only further confirm why Brett Kavanaugh is unfit to serve on the nation’s highest court. Knute Buehler is clearly placing partisan politics ahead of protecting Oregon women’s health and rights.”

Statement from Grayson Dempsey, Executive Director of NARAL Pro-Choice Oregon PAC:

“By refusing to speak out against Brett Kavanaugh, Knute Buehler proves that he cannot be trusted to stand up for women, for sexual assault survivors or for reproductive freedom. From lying under oath to sending secret emails misleading the public on his view on Roe v. Wade, Brett Kavanaugh has shown his true colors. And now even with two very credible accusations of sexual assault, Knute Buehler says he will reserve judgment until after a hearing.

“In a time when the stakes have never been higher, there is no room for uncertainty. Oregon women need a champion to stand up to the Trump administration’s ongoing assault on women’s rights, and Buehler has shown once again that lacks the courage and conviction to lead on these important issues.”

Statement from Governor Kate Brown:

“Oregonians know they can trust me to stand up for abortion access and fight back when the federal government tries to take Oregonians’ rights away. I have been 100 percent clear since July that Brett Kavanaugh shouldn’t be confirmed to this court because of the threat he poses to women’s health across the country, including here in Oregon.”

McLain, Dempsey and Gov. Brown participated in the National Walkout and Moment of Solidarity yesterday in support of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, Deborah Ramirez and all survivors of sexual violence.

###

25 de septiembre, 2018

Es el momento para vacunarse—la temporada de influenza se acerca

Latinos entre grupo que menos se vacuna contra la gripe en Oregon

El inicio de la temporada de la influenza está a la vuelta de la esquina, y funcionarios de Oregon Health Authority dicen que es buen tiempo para que familias comiencen a programar citas para obtener la vacuna contra la influenza. Las inmunizaciones son recomendadas para toda persona mayor de 6 meses.

La vacuna demora alrededor de dos semanas en brindar protección contra la gripe, por lo que obtenerla a principios de la temporada es ideal, expresan expertos en enfermedades infecciosas y vacunación de OHA. Aunque es difícil pronosticar la severidad de la temporada de la influenza este año, ellos dicen que vacunarse contra la gripe es la mejor manera de prepararse para lo que venga.

"Las vacunas son la mejor protección disponible contra a la influenza. Cada uno de nosotros puede ayudar a mantener bajos los casos de la gripe al vacunarse contra la influenza antes del periodo más intenso de la temporada," opina Emilio DeBess, epidemiólogo en la División de Salud Pública de OHA.

La influenza (también conocida como "gripe") es una enfermedad respiratoria contagiosa provocada por el virus de la influenza. Cada año, el virus causa decenas de miles de muertes, cientos de miles de hospitalizaciones y millones de personas se enferman. Las personas que tienen el riesgo mayor de presentar complicaciones graves incluyen niños, adultos mayores de 65 años, mujeres embarazadas y personas con enfermedades crónicas o sistemas inmunes débiles.

Datos del Programa de Inmunización de Oregon de la temporada de influenza 2017-2018 muestran que solamente 39 por ciento de Latinos recibieron la vacuna contra la gripe. Latinos de todas las edades tienen menor probabilidad de vacunarse que otros grupos, esto a pesar de tener altas tasas de vacunación para vacunas infantiles, de acuerdo con el Programa de Inmunización de Oregon. Otro grupo de preocupación son adultos mayores Afroamericanos que tiene una tasa de vacunación de 61 por ciento comparado a 73 por ciento entre adultos mayores blancos. Poblaciones vulnerables y grupos de mayor riesgo pueden potencialmente ver un alto número de casos de enfermedades graves y muertes durante brotes de la influenza.

Funcionarios de salud pública también animan a profesionales de la salud vacunarse contra la influenza para prevenir la propagación de la influenza en instalaciones de atención de salud, particularmente entre pacientes hospitalizados que tienen alto riesgo de complicaciones de la influenza, como personas mayores, niños pequeños o los que padecen enfermedades crónicas. Datos de 2016-2017 sobre la tasa de vacunación entre profesionales de la salud en Oregon están disponibles aquí: https://apps.state.or.us/Forms/Served/le8628.pdf.

Formas adicionales que personas pueden prevenir la influenza:

• Mientras esté enfermo, haga reposo en su hogar y no vaya a trabajar o la escuela; limite el contacto con otras personas.
• Cúbrase la nariz y la boca con un pañuelo al toser o estornudar. Después de usar el pañuelo, tírelo a la basura y lávese las manos
• Lávese las manos con agua y jabón frecuentemente. Si no hay agua y jabón, use un limpiador de manos a base de alcohol.
• Evite tocarse los ojos, la nariz o la boca.
• Limpie y desinfecte las superficies y los objetos que puedan estar contaminados con gérmenes.
• Trate de evitar contacto cercano con personas enfermas.

La vacuna contra la gripe está disponible en centros de atención médica, departamentos de salud local y varias farmacias. Para ubicar una clínica de vacunación, visite www.flu.oregon.gov .

Este es un video corto sobre la influenza y vacunas: https://youtu.be/TFCnfkFraDQ

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http://bit.ly/2IdVhGz

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is accepting applications to fill three vacancies on the volunteer Planning Commission.

Two positions are for four-year terms; one position is for a six-year term. All three terms begin Jan. 1, 2019.

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

To apply, please submit a letter of interest and résumé to Alyssa Weyhrauch, Clark County Council, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000. Applications also can be emailed to auch@clark.wa.gov">alyssa.weyhrauch@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, Oct. 26, 2018.

Resending: Video link included

September 25, 2018

It's a good time to get vaccinated; flu season is coming

OHA officials urge everyone 6 months and older to get immunized

The start of influenza season is around the corner. Oregon Health Authority officials say it’s a good time for families to schedule appointments to get flu vaccines. The vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older.

The flu vaccine may take up to two weeks to become effective, so getting it earlier in the season is ideal, OHA disease and vaccine experts say. While it’s difficult to know exactly how bad the flu season will be this year, they say getting a flu shot is the best way to prepare for however it shapes up.

"They are the best protection against flu we have available," said Ann Thomas, M.D., public health physician at the OHA Public Health Division. "We can all do our part in keeping flu numbers down by getting a flu shot before the season really hits hard."

Flu vaccine is available from health care providers, local health departments and many pharmacies. The vaccine is free or low cost with most health insurance plans. To find flu vaccine clinic, visit http://www.flu.oregon.gov/ and use OHA’s flu vaccine locator tool.

Flu is a virus that causes mild to severe respiratory illness. In severe cases it can lead to hospitalization and even death. The virus kills thousands of people in the U.S. each year. People at higher risk of severe illness include children, adults older than 65, pregnant women and those with chronic medical conditions or weak immune systems. Oregon had two flu-related deaths of children during the 2017-2018 flu season.

Oregon Immunization Program data for the 2017-2018 flu season show that flu vaccination rates among some groups lag behind others. Officials worry that Latinos of all ages and African American seniors may be left unprotected if flu vaccination rates among the two groups do not increase. Latinos typically have high childhood immunization rates, yet only 39 percent of Latinos received a flu vaccine. African American seniors had a 61 percent vaccination rate compared to 73 percent for white seniors.

"It’s not clear why flu vaccination rates for these two groups are lower," said Aaron Dunn, OHA Immunization Program manager. "We want to call attention to it and hope our health partners will help us reach out to these groups to ensure everyone has an opportunity to get a flu vaccine."

Public health officials also encourage health care workers to get vaccinated for the flu. Immunized health care workers help prevent the spread of influenza in health care settings, particularly among hospitalized patients at high risk for complications from the flu such as the elderly, very young and those with some chronic illnesses. Data on 2016-2017 Oregon health care worker influenza vaccination rates are available on the OHA website at https://apps.state.or.us/Forms/Served/le8628.pdf.

Additional ways people can help prevent flu:

• Stay home from work or school when you are sick and limit contact with others.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue out when you are done.
• Wash hands with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may have flu germs on them.
• Avoid getting coughed and sneezed on.

Here is a short video about the flu and vaccination: https://youtu.be/So1W4pNJ8OM

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http://bit.ly/2IeZmu5

GRESHAM, OR. – Continuing Gresham City Council’s focus on children and families, Mayor Shane Bemis is urging youth to participate in National Voter Registration Day today, September 25. Mayor Bemis has joined the U.S. Conference of Mayors to promote electoral participation amongst the nation’s youth. In Gresham, the City’s Youth Advisory Council, Mt. Hood Community College, and local high schools are teaming up to encourage youth 16 and older to register to vote through handouts and a social media campaign.

“The health of representative democracy in America has always depended on participation,” said Mayor Shane Bemis. “The more people we can bring into self-governance, the better we will be as a republic. Let’s empower our youth to let their voices be heard.”

Today, the City’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC), a group of local high school students who provide guidance to City Council on issues affecting youth, will pass out voter registration instructions at their schools. Members of the YAC will educate their peers on the importance of every vote—for instance, the Gresham Barlow school bond passed by less than 2,000 votes and has a direct impact on every high school student in that district.

In Oregon, students can register to vote when they are just 16 years old. They won’t receive a ballot until the election after their 18th birthday. Registering online is easy at https://sos.oregon.gov/voting. If students wish to participate in the November elections, the registration deadline is October 16.

Participation in National Voter Registration Day is part of a series of efforts at the City focusing on Gresham’s youth, who make up a growing segment of the city. A quarter of Gresham’s population is under the age of 18. Earlier this year, students from area high schools participated in the City’s first-ever Youth Summit, where the topic of encouraging students to vote arose. Mayor Bemis is also chair of the new U.S. Conference of Mayors Youth Involvement Task Force, leading efforts to explore ways local mayors can engage with young people in their community to foster involvement in public service.

Lieutenant David Abrahamson, Portland Police Bureau, recently completed one of the toughest challenges available to local law enforcement officers: the FBI National Academy. In mid-September, Lt. Abrahamson and two other Oregon law enforcement officers completed a ten-week training session at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

There is a highly competitive process local law enforcement officers must go through to be selected for this honor. That process includes a nomination by a supervisor; interviews with the candidate and co-workers to determine leadership skills and abilities; a background check; a determination of physical fitness; and the support of former National Academy graduates within the candidate's organization.

"Only a few law enforcement officers from Oregon have the opportunity to attend the National Academy each year," said Renn Cannon, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon. "The Academy gives them the chance to share best practices and explore many facets of law enforcement leadership with others from across the country and the world."

Lt. Abrahamson started his law enforcement career with the Portland Police Bureau more than 18 years ago and considers it a privilege to serve the community that he has lived in since his youth. In 2000, he began his career as an officer with Patrol Operations in the Northeast Precinct. Four years later he transferred to the Drugs and Vice Division and was part of the Regional Organized Crime Narcotics Task Force. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2011 and moved to the East Precinct where he worked in Patrol Operations, on Rapid Response Team and on the Major Crash Team. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2017 and now serves in the Detective Division.

“Lt. Abrahamson has been a committed member of the Portland Police Bureau throughout his career, and I’m certain he applied the same dedication to his time at the FBI National Academy,” said Portland Police Chief Danielle Outlaw. “We are looking forward to him returning to the Police Bureau in our investigations branch and apply the leadership knowledge and experience he has gained.”

During the ten weeks of training, local executive-level law enforcement officers spend most of their time in the classroom. Lt. Abrahamson’s National Academy classes included: Essentials for Law Enforcement Leaders; Contemporary Issues in Law Enforcement; Emotional Intelligence; Leading At-Risk Employees; Approaches to Counterterrorism; and Fitness in Law Enforcement. The program allows participants the opportunity to earn college credits through the University of Virginia for some of those studies. In addition to the classroom work, participants have physical training courses and activities.

Each year, the FBI sponsors four sessions of the National Academy. Each session includes about 220 local law enforcement officers from around the United States and around the world. While in the academy, the officers and deputies live in a dorm-like setting. The FBI does not charge U.S. students for tuition, books, equipment, meals, lodging or travel to and from their home.

SALEM, Ore. –  Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) will host its next Quarterly Stakeholder Meeting on October 15, 2018 in Salem. Join us in person, by phone or watch online.

DHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht, along with the Department’s Executive Leadership Team, will present brief program updates followed by a question-and-answer period. Program updates will be provided by the directors of each program division with DHS: Aging and People with Disabilities, Child Welfare, the Office of Developmental Disabilities, Self-Sufficiency Programs and Vocational Rehabilitation.

When: Monday, October 15, 2018, 1:30 to 3 p.m.

In-Person: Barbara Roberts Human Services Building, Room 137, 500 Summer Street NE, Salem

By phone: Take part by conference call 866.233.3841; Participant Code 451371

Online: Watch the live stream, which will include live captioning. Link will be shared prior to the meeting.

Join the conversation online by using #ORDHSforum

Learn more about the services DHS offers: www.oregon.gov/dhs

Sept. 21, 2018 - Salem, Ore. – A Sunday afternoon tradition lead to a Veneta woman winning $70,000 playing an Oregon Lottery Scratch-it.

Jeannie Kelly of Veneta has a Sunday afternoon tradition that she thoroughly enjoys – she takes her dogs and goes to Dari-Mart in her neighborhood.

“My parents go with us and then we all get Lottery tickets and play,” Jeanie said. “That’s our Sunday thing every weekend.”

Kelly did what she does every week, and took the tickets home, then made a trip to the grocery store for the week’s meal planning. When she got back, and put the groceries away, she played the Scratch-its, and couldn’t believe what she discovered.

“I just sat there and kept matching the numbers,” Kelly said. “That is a winner, right? Is this really happening? Is all I could say.”

Kelly said she will be celebrating her 20th wedding anniversary in October and the couple are planning a trip to Disneyland. The big decision is whether to visit the California or Florida location.

“We don’t have kids, the dogs are our kids,” she said. “So we might even take the dogs.”

Kelly purchased her ticket at the Dari-Mart in Veneta along Highway 126. The last big winning ticket the store sold was a $250,000 Mega Millions ticket in 2011.

During the 2015-17 biennium in Lane County, where Kelly lives and the Dari-Mart she purchased the ticket are located, more than $50.8 million in Oregon Lottery proceeds were directed to economic development, parks, education and watershed enhancement.

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

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $11 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org

At 7:15pm PF&R crews were alerted to a wildfire increasing in size in the are of N Edgewater and N Willamette St. When Station 22 (St. John’s) arrived they found a 300’ x 50’ area creeping toward the N. Willamette bluff. Access was difficult for the first arriving fire engines and ladder trucks but smaller more mobile brush fire units arrived shortly after allowing crews to access and extinguish the fire before it could spread to nearby homes and structures. Fortunately, crews were spared a faster moving fire due to little to no wind at the time of the blaze. “Add a little wind to this fire and this could have been a much more dangerous situation” remarked Battallion Chief Steve Bregman. Chief Bregman, who has been deployed to several large wildland fires as part of a State of Oregon response team, also commented on the fire threat still posed by our lingering dry vegetation which is fuel for fires like these. 

Fire Investigators were called to the scene to determine a cause but had no strong leads as to how this fire started. No structures were involved and no injuries were reported. 

Safety Alert

The weather forecast is for very warm and dry conditions for the remainder of the week. PF&R officials have issued a warning to residents to be extremely careful with any type of burning or outdoor heat sources. This includes BBQ’s, fire pits, burn piles and discarding of cigarettes. Our vegetation is still very dry and very vulnerable to fire!

Date: Tuesday, September 18, 2018

Time: Event at 7 p.m. (doors at 6 p.m.)

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre, 3000 NE Alberta Street, Portland, Ore.

Tickets: $15 for GA, $34 for book + ticket combo, or $8 students with ID (minors under 21 with parent/guardian only) 

Food & Drink: Full Bar, hand pies, pizza rolls, and an assortment of sweets and snacks available

Event Website: https://www.viaproductions.org/events/alberta_sept_18_geology

Few of us have any conception of the enormous timescales in our planet’s long history, and this narrow perspective underlies many of the environmental problems we are creating for ourselves. The passage of nine days, which is how long a drop of water typically stays in Earth’s atmosphere, is something we can easily grasp. But spans of hundreds of years—the time a molecule of carbon dioxide resides in the atmosphere—approach the limits of our comprehension. Our everyday lives are shaped by processes that vastly predate us, and our habits will in turn have consequences that will outlast us by generations. 

At this Science on Tap, Marcia Bjornerud, PhD, will talk about her new book Timefulness and will present a new way of thinking about our place in time that will enable us to make decisions on multigenerational timescales. Knowing the rhythms of Earth’s deep past and conceiving of time as a geologist does can give us the perspective we need for a more sustainable future.

Dr. Bjornerud is a professor of geology and environmental studies at Lawrence University, the author of Reading the Rocks: The Autobiography of the Earth, and a contributing writer for Elements, the New Yorker’s science and technology blog.

Books will be available for sale ($25) and signing, courtesy of Broadway Books.
 

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

See attached Press Release

Kelso School District School Board President Bob Lucas submitted his letter of resignation, effective September 30, 2018. For the last seven years, he’s helped inform and guide the direction of the district as Vice President and President of the Board.

Lucas originally became a Kelso School District Board Member in the 1980’s when Carrolls School District consolidated with the Kelso. His time on the Carrolls Board and the Kelso Board is what inspired him to become a teacher. After going back to school for his MIT, he taught in La Center for 3 years before returning to Kelso to teach 5th grade at Butler Acres. He finished his 17-year teaching career out at Coweeman before rejoining the Board of Directors in 2011.

In addition to his work, Lucas showed his commitment to service by volunteering for many years as an Outdoor School instructor, CASA advocate, and volunteer Coweeman basketball coach.

“Bob Lucas exemplifies servant leadership.  He is deeply committed to our team, our students, and our community,” said Superintendent Mary Beth Tack.  “Kelso School District is a better organization because of his passion for kids and staff.  He has been a role model and mentor to so many within our district, including me.”

When asked why he’s stepping down from the Board, Lucas said, “Our kids and their families are pretty special in our lives, and I have four young grandsons who still think I’m kind of cool. I’d like to spend a lot of time with them before they realize the truth.” He and his wife, Marsha, also have plans to travel more.

Kelso Education Association (KEA) President Bob Gustin shared that “We are really going to miss Bob Lucas.  We will miss his leadership.  How can you put a price on someone who spent years in the classroom, who understands the day to day challenges that staff face and has a heart for kids?”

Board Vice President Roy Parsons will serve as Interim President until the annual election of officers in December. Applications for the vacant board position may be picked up in the Superintendent’s Office at 601 Crawford Street in Kelso. Completed applications must be received by 5 p.m. on September 28 at the same location.  The duties of a Kelso School District Board Member are stated in Policy 1220 and the key functions of the Board are stated in Policy 1005.

Monday, September 24, 2018-Woodland, WA-In order to reduce the financial burden on students to attend school events and participate in athletics, Woodland High School provided ASB cards to every student free-of-charge for the 2018-2019 school year. ASB cards enable students to get into home games and student performances free-of-charge. Students also receive discounts on away games and school dances. In addition, students interested in participating on athletic teams are required to have an ASB card.

In prior years, ASB cards cost $25 each, but this year, there’s no cost thanks to efforts made by Principal John Shoup, “We wanted to increase student attendance at school events as well as remove financial burdens from students who would like to attend but might not have the money to do so,” he explained. “If students have an ASB card, there is no longer an admission cost preventing them from attending events.” In addition to free admission to school events, the free ASB cards reduce the cost for students to participate in athletics from a previous cost of $100 to play on a team to $75.

The administration team wanted to increase student attendance at school events for some time. “This idea has been two years in the making and John found a way to build the cost into our building budget,” said Paul Huddleston, Athletic Director for Woodland Public Schools. “Our hope is that we can encourage more students to not only participate in athletics as student players, but also attend school events which increases overall morale throughout the school.”

Student participation at athletic events can make a huge difference. “Our teams feed off the energy coming from the student support,” Paul said. “Our athletes and coaches work really hard for Game Day so we can be proud to say we are Woodland Beavers – they deserve that support and it’s great to see an effort to make it happen.”

Hannah Landrigan, a senior at WHS, and Kelly Wiest, a junior, play together on the school’s soccer team and experience the difference student support makes first-hand. “Having people you know in the stands gives you someone  to play for – their presence actually improves your play,” explained Hannah. Kaley agreed, “If there’s not a lot of student support, it can be hard to get as motivated, but when you’ve got friends and classmates cheering you on, their support makes the games feel important to the school.”

In addition to increasing student attendance, Hannah thinks the free ASB cards may drive up community attendance at sporting events, too, “When parents hear their kid’s going to a game, they might come, too, to make it a family activity and enjoy the Woodland spirit together.”

Hannah currently serves as ASB President and sees the free ASB cards making a big difference in many ways. “Already having an ASB card reduces the price of attending dances, drama performances, and musical concerts, too,” she said. “When you’re young, a discount of a few dollars can make the difference between being able to afford to go to a dance or not.”

The students observed more of their classmates talking about attending this year’s Homecoming Dance than in prior years. “Homecoming is always a big event for the high school, but there’s an increased interest in Homecoming this year,” explained Kaley. “Making the admission $3 instead of $5 may sound like a small change, but it makes all the difference for students being able to attend school events on a limited budget.”

Hannah and Kaley think increasing student engagement makes a bigger difference in small school communities like Woodland High School than it might in larger schools. “Woodland is a small, tight-knit community – everyone knows everyone unlike larger schools where people segment themselves into specific groups,” said Kaley. “We have different interest groups in Woodland, too, but kids flow from one group to another with a lot of overlap.”

To Hannah, the small-town community spirit of Woodland flows throughout the high school. “We’re a family and we accept new people into every group,” she said. “I haven’t met any new students who have trouble meeting people because we value everyone; ASB reflects this ideal and I think these free ASB cards are going a long way to bringing everyone even closer together.”

###

While small amounts of Cryptosporidium were detected coming from the Bull Run source starting in 2017, Cryptosporidium has not been detected in Portland’s drinking water since April 10, 2018. Over the next nine years, the Portland Water Bureau will be installing a new treatment plant to remove Cryptosporidium from Bull Run drinking water.

Until the filtration plant is online, the Portland Water Bureau is also committed to continued monitoring of the Bull Run and a range of actions to maintain public health protections. This includes informing the public of the potential risks of Cryptosporidium in drinking water and Portland’s plan for filtration by sharing the following information with the public on a quarterly basis.

The Portland Water Bureau does not currently treat for Cryptosporidium but is required to do so under the drinking water regulations. Portland is working to install filtration by 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 Center 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 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 gastrointestinal illness from Cryptosporidium and advises that customers who are immunocompromised and receive their drinking water from the Bull Run Watershed consult with their health care 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 Portland 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 the Bull Run. To learn if your drinking water comes from Bull Run, please contact your local water provider.

Under the direction of Commissioner Amanda Fritz, the Portland Water Bureau plans to seek public feedback on the type of filtration and other details of the project prior to moving forward with a future filtration plant. Opportunities to provide input will be announced in the next few weeks.

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

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

One day… Your child may ask…  “Mom/Dad, How does your job help people? Do you make a difference?”  How will you answer…?

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office wants you to know:

We are hiring!

The Clark County Sheriff's Office has immediate openings for a number of positions in Corrections, Enforcement and Sheriff’s Support roles.

The Sheriff's Office is hosting a free informational workshop for those interested in pursuing a career with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office. Listen to presentations from current Clark County Deputies, Sheriff's Human Resources staff and the Chief Civil Service Examiner about the application process from the initial testing to date of hire. Have all your recruitment questions ready. This is your opportunity to talk with us directly.

Thursday, October 4th, 2018
6:30-7:30PM
Public Safety Complex
505 NW 179th Street
Ridgefield, Wash. 98642
(Northwest of the Clark County Fairgrounds)

For more information, call Sheriff's Recruitment at 360.397.2176 or email iffrecruitment@clark.wa.gov">sheriffrecruitment@clark.wa.gov

Around 12:30 today, Sherwood Police Officers attempted to make contact with two subjects in a vehicle ln the Woodhaven neighborhood.  A witness had reported seeing one of the subjects attempting to remove a license plate from another vehicle. 

The male driver of the vehicle, fled on foot and into the neighborhood.  The female passenger was detained at the scene. 

As a precautionary measure, The Sherwood Police Department requested the schools within close proximity of the scene to go into lockout while a search of the subject continued.  The High School and Archer Glen elementary were the schools affected. The lockout has since been lifted. 

The driver, who is believed to be Brandon James Anthony Lopez is still outstanding

Lopez is described as 6’2”, 180 lbs, shoulder length brown hair and brown eyes   

Lopez was last seen wearing black shorts, black tank top and carry another dark shirt. 

His last known address is Newberg.  If you see Lopez, please call 911

The Salem Police Department Traffic Unit conducted a vehicle-pedestrian safety campaign on September 14th, 2018. The goal of these safety campaigns is to enhance safety in our community through education to both pedestrians and vehicle operators. Locations are chosen based on crash and complaint data received by the department.
 

During the campaign, 68 drivers were contacted for pedestrian-related violations, with the majority receiving education and warnings. There were 22 citations/warnings issued for other violations and one cite and release arrest was made.

The locations designated for this campaign were Summer Street NE at Hood Street NE and Commercial Street NE and Columbia Street NE. These location was selected due to complaints of pedestrians nearly being struck by vehicles near the Boys and Girls Club and Highland Elementary School. Although Oregon law states that every intersection should be considered to have a crosswalk whether marked or not, officers chose to focus on education of drivers found to be in violation at marked crosswalk locations.

The Salem Police Department will also be working with the Public Works Department to address engineering improvements which may help increase crosswalk visibility/safety at the above intersections, and will also continue to work on education and enforcement projects to enhance traffic safety.

This safety campaign is in partnership with Oregon Impact, ODOT and NHTSA in order to address pedestrian and crosswalk safety through education and enforcement.

Note to editors:  Hearings will be held in Salem, Portland, Medford and Bend.

(Salem, Ore.) – The Vocational Rehabilitation program is seeking public comment on changes to its procedure manual that guides decisions on employment-related services for people with disabilities.

The public may testify at public hearings or submit written comments from Friday, Sept. 28, 2018 through Friday, Oct. 12, 2018.

The proposed procedures will be posted at http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/vr/ on Sept. 28, 2018.

Vocational Rehabilitation seeks input on the proposed Procedures Manual, Section 2. All input will be reviewed and, where appropriate, the procedures will be modified or refined.

Vocational Rehabilitation is updating procedures to align with requirements of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), enacted July 22, 2014 (Public Law No. 113-128). The procedures match definitions and requirements in the Rehabilitation Act, as amended, and clarify processes for vocational rehabilitation service.

How to comment or provide testimony:

Email: Email your comments to: .Policy@state.or.us">VR.Policy@state.or.us

Mail: Send written testimony to:
Department of Human Services, Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation
Robin Brandt, Policy Analyst
500 Summer Street NE, E-87 Salem, Oregon 97310-1018

In person: Attend a public hearing listed below.

By phone: During the hearing, dial in as indicated for each meeting.

The hearings will end when comments conclude. Please arrive before the meeting to sign up to provide testimony.

The public hearings:

September 28, 2018

Time:          Noon - 1 p.m.
Location:    Human Services Building – Room 166
500 Summer Street
Salem, Oregon
Dial in:        +1 (503) 934-1400, Access code: 7583017#

October 4, 2018

Time:           3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location:    East Portland Vocational Rehabilitation Office – Conference Room
305 NE 102nd Avenue
Portland, Oregon
Dial in:        +1 (503) 934-1400, Access code: 555388#

October 3, 2018

Time:           1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Location:    Medford Vocational Rehabilitation office
28 West 6th Street
Medford, OR
Dial in:        +1 (503) 934-1400, Access code: 874949#

October 8, 2018

Time:           9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Location:    Bend Vocational Rehabilitation office – Mirror Pond Conference Room
1645 NE Forbes Rd, Suite 100
Bend, OR 97701
Dial in:        +1 (503) 934-1400, Access code: 7524549#

Accommodation: Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication should make a request as soon as possible but no later than 48 hours before the scheduled event by contacting Robin Brandt at (503-945-5857) or email VR.Policy@state.or.us.

About Vocational Rehabilitation: The Vocational Rehabilitation program assists individuals with disabilities to get, keep and advance in jobs that match the individual’s skills, interests and abilities.

PeaceHealth Hospice is seeking volunteers to work with patients and families to provide important hospice services including respite care, and to volunteer at the Ray Hickey Hospice House. Respite care volunteers provide short-term relief for primary caregivers. The volunteer commitment is four hours per week for one year. Training for this volunteer activity is scheduled for:
When: Oct. 1, 2018 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: The training session  will be held at PeaceHealth Southwest's Hope Bereavement Center at 5400 MacArthur Blvd., Vancouver, WA. A light lunch and snacks will be provided. The training will include information on important topics including:

• Hospice history
• Policies, laws and regulations
• Emergency situations
• Volunteering
• Cultural competence
• Understanding family dynamics
• Setting boundaries
• Communication and listening skills
• Spiritual caregiving at end of life
• Self-care
• Infection control
• Diseases
• Death and dying
• Understanding grief and loss

NO ONE DIES ALONE
PeaceHealth's Hospice program is seeking compassionate volunteers to sit with solitary hospice patients during the last hours of their life journey. Our innovative program "No One Dies Alone" (NODA) ensures every one of our hospice patients will pass in the loving presence of another human being. Volunteers are invited to attend the training session on:
When: Friday, Oct. 5.
Where: The training session is scheduled from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Lunch and snacks will be provided. The session will be held at PeaceHealth Southwest's Hope Bereavement Center at 5400 MacArthur Blvd., Vancouver, WA.
Contact: To register for the training, or if you have questions, contact Colleen Storey at cstorey@peacehealth.org or call 360-696-5120.

What is the role of a NODA volunteer?

• Advocate for the patient when that person is alone or unable to speak for him/herself
• Provide comfort/support for the patient
• Provide a presence of peace and calm
• Hold patient’s hand, read to the patient, be attentive to patient’s comfort

What is required of a NODA volunteer?

• A caring heart/compassion and willingness to help others
• Active listening skills and comfortability with intense emotions
• Integrity with ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to sit for long periods of time
• Patience/dependability
• Ability to be comfortable with death

About the No One Dies Alone program:
NODA is designed for patients who are on comfort care and are expected to pass within 24-48 hours. Vigil shifts for volunteers are four hours long, and volunteers are contacted on an as-needed basis.

OTHER VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Additionally, hospice volunteers who will work directly with patients are asked to attend "Patient Care Training" on:
When: Monday, Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: PeaceHealth Hope Bereavement Services
5400 MacArthur Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98661
For information or to RSVP please call 360-696-5069 or email ahansen@peacehealth.org

About PeaceHealth Hope Bereavement Services
Hope Bereavement Services is a program of PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, providing emotional support and information for healing. We offer bereavement support groups and counseling to members of our community, including individuals, families and children.

About PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center
The region’s health care leader and steward for 155 years, PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center is a community-owned, not-for-profit, 450-bed, medical institution located in Vancouver, Washington. Repeatedly recognized nationally as a 100 Top Hospital, PeaceHealth Southwest provides a full range of outpatient and inpatient diagnostic, medical, and surgical services to Clark County residents. PeaceHealth Southwest is also one of Clark County’s largest employers with 3,400 employees and 600 active medical staff members that help support dozens of medical specialty services and programs, including cancer, heart, emergency, trauma, neuro-musculoskeletal, family birth, and primary care. For more information visit http://www.peacehealth.org/southwest.

On September 7, 2018 at approximately 8:31 am, Beaverton police officers responded to the 8500 block of SW Apple Way on a report of an adult male riding a bike while holding a large knife. This incident ultimately ended in an officer involved shooting.

On September 21, 2018, evidence in this case was presented to a Washington County Grand Jury. The Grand Jury indicted 22-year-old Anthony A Shaner for three counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon. Two Beaverton Police officers and one store employee were considered victims in the three criminal counts.

Mr. Shaner is still receiving medical attention at a local hospital. Once Mr. Shaner is released from the hospital he will be taken into custody on the Grand Jury indictment.

Beaverton Police Officer Dan Coulson was involved in this officer involved shooting. Officer Coulson is a 22 year veteran of the Beaverton Police Department. Officer Coulson was placed on administrative leave during the investigation, which is standard practice.

##BPD##

Partnership between the District and the Oregon International Air Show made the event possible

September 24, 2018, Hillsboro, OR – Students at Poynter Middle School were in for a treat on Friday, Sept. 21, when an Oregon National Guard Black Hawk helicopter landed in their field and was joined by two Humvees (High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles: HMMWVs).

Students knew there would be something special happening that Friday, but didn’t know all the details. Just before 2 p.m., they filed out of the building with their teachers and sat next to cones that had been arranged in the field to spell out “Poynter.” This allowed a photographer on board the Black Hawk to get pictures of the students in formation.

Upon landing and securing the helicopter, students were allowed to view the Black Hawk and Humvees up close and ask questions of the pilot, flight crew, and Guardsmen.

Afterward, students returned to their formation and learned that all students and staff, plus two family members, would receive tickets to the upcoming Air Show, taking place Friday through Sunday, Sept. 28-30.

When students heard the news, they erupted into cheers.

This special event was more than a year in the making, and it all started when a guest speaker for one of Poynter’s AVID classes mentioned he had an Air Show connection. Assistant Principal Sonta Thompson followed up and pursued a partnership with the Air Show, which led to the Black Hawk event. She even had to secure Pentagon approval for the helicopter’s landing.

“I’m just so excited to bring a fun and unique event to Poynter for our students,” Sonta remarked. “It’s also a great opportunity for them to learn about career fields they may not have otherwise considered.”

Bill Braack, president of the Oregon International Air Show added: “The Oregon International Air Show is excited to be able to partner with our local schools and it was amazing to see the looks on the faces of these students today as they were offered just a glimpse of the world of aviation. It is critical for our nation and our future that we start engaging kids with aviation and we hope to see a lot of these young people at the Air Show next week.”

School and District staff are hoping this event kicks off a career pathway in aviation and avionics; look for more details on that in the coming year.

Pictures of the event are available on the HSD website at: https://bit.ly/2zr5Of7.  

###

Sept. 21, 2018 - Salem, Ore. – David Black likes to stop and play Oregon Lottery Scratch-its. He calls it a hobby, and last week it paid off when the Troutdale man won $100,000 playing a $10 Scratch-it.

“When I came home he said he wanted me to look at something,” said Jean, David’s wife. “He asked me what I thought, and I thought it looked suspicious.”

That confused David, and he asked Jean, his wife of 43 years what she meant?

“It looks suspiciously like a win!” she said. The couple then took the ticket back to the Dotty’s on SW 257th in Troutdale, where David bought the ticket.

“The clerk there scanned it and it we felt ‘zing with a bunch of zeroes,” Jean said. “This was his lucky day!”

The couple claimed their prize Sept. 10, and said that while their house was paid off, they would like to make some improvements, and save the rest for their retirement.

“We are going to hang on to the money for a rainy day,” Jean said.

The couple won playing the $10 Lucky Numbers Scratch-it, which has a top prize of $100,000. There is one top prize remaining with the Lucky Numbers Scratch-it.

The prize is the largest win that Dotty’s has had according to Oregon Lottery records. Two other players won $10,000 playing Video Lottery in 2011. Retailers receive a 1-percent selling bonus on jackpot prizes, meaning that Dotty’s will receive $1,000 for selling the winning ticket.

During the 2015-17 biennium in Multnomah County, where Black lives and the Dotty’s he purchased the ticket  is located, more than $109.3 million in Oregon Lottery proceeds were directed to economic development, parks, education and watershed enhancement.

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

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $11 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org

For Immediate Release

The Woodburn Police are seeking the public’s help in locating Margarito Sanchez Vega. On September 20th, 2018, Margarito Sanchez Vega failed to appear at his trial and the Marion County Circuit Court issued a warrant for his arrest. Margarito Sanchez Vega was charged with Rape in the First Degree, Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the First Degree, and Sexual Abuse in the First Degree.  If you see Margarito Sanchez Vega please call 911.  He is described as 5’3” and 160 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information on Margarito Sanchez Vega’s location is asked to contact the Woodburn Police Department at 503-982-2345. 

Photo attached.

For Immediate Release                                                            Keith Feher

September 24, 2017                                                    503-274-4483

                                                                                    503-702-3810 (cell)

Union Gospel Mission to Host 18th Annual Operation Overcoat Street Fair

Event Provides Clothing, Food and More for Homeless

Portland, Ore., -  On Saturday, September 29th from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm, Union Gospel Mission will be hosting the Mission’s 18th Annual Operation Overcoat street fair, a clothing and food give away for people who are homeless or in need.  This event is free and open to anyone in need.

Union Gospel Mission will be blocking off NW Third Avenue between Burnside and Couch Streets and blocking off Couch Street between Third and Fourth Avenues for the Operation Overcoat event.  At the event, guests will have access to free clothing, boots, shoes, sleeping bags, blankets, hygiene items and more. The barbeque meal will be hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, chips and soda.  In addition to the clothing and the meal, there will be live music, free haircuts and free bibles.

Union Gospel Mission is seeking donations of new or gently used sleeping bags, boots, new socks and underwear. Union Gospel Mission has open volunteer positions for this event. People interested in volunteering can contact the Mission at 503-274-4483 or via email to volunteer@ugmportland.org

At last year’s Operation Overcoat, Union Gospel Mission provided over 3,000 articles of clothing and 1,300 barbeque meals.

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

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

# # #

On September 7, 2018 Beaverton Police Detectives arrested 30-year-old Ryan Mutchler. Mutchler had a text message conversation, over several days with an undercover detective, which outlined Mutchler’s desires to have a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl. Mr. Mutchler was taken to Washington County Jail and charged with Online Sexual Corruption of a Minor in the Second Degree and Luring a Minor.

Beaverton Police Department was informed of Mr. Mutchler’s potential behavior by alert parents who monitored their child’s cell phone use. Mr. Mutchler met the victim at a joint church camp between June 24th and June 30, 2018.

Mutchler was a youth pastor at Mountain Park Church in Lake Oswego and he assisted with the Aloha High School marching band program on a short-term basis.

Beaverton Police Department believes there is a potential for more victims given Mr. Mutchler’s work with youth. Any additional victims or anyone with information regarding Mr. Mutchler’s behavior are asked to call 503-629-0111 and speak to a Beaverton Police officer.

##BPD##

 The Silverton Fire District responded on a grass and brush fire this evening at the 16000 block of Stormy Dr. East of Silverton. The fire threatened several structures and required fire equipment and personnel from six fire agencies in order to stop the blaze. The fire was running fast through high grass, brush and trees as the first unit arrived which prompted additional alarms. High winds and dry conditions allowed the fire to spread fast. If  firefighters not been able to put as much equipment and personnel on the fire, it likely would have spread to structures and dense timber nearby. The property owner was treated on scene by medics for smoke inhalation.

The fire was caused by the property owner trying to burn out a Yellow Jacket nest using lighter fluid. This is the second grass/brush fire in Stormy Dr. and Silver Falls Hwy area that has been started when property owners have tried to burn out Yellow Jackets. The property owner was cited by the Oregon Department of Forestry and will likely have to pay the cost to ODF for their response on the fire. Property owners are encouraged to call a licensed exterminator to remove Yellow Jacket nests rather than risk a fire from burning them out.

The Silverton Fire District is encouraging residents to continue being vigilant during the autumn months. The small amount of rain that has been received and the cooler weather can be deceiving. High winds and dry conditions make for dangerous fire conditions.

The Silverton Fire District was assisted by Mt. Angel Fire, Drakes Crossing Fire, Marion County Fire District #1, Woodburn Fire, Canby Fire and Oregon Department of Forestry.

See attached pictures.

Contact Assistant Chief Ed Grambusch for further information.

MEDIA ADVISORY: FOR PLANNING PURPOSES ONLY
 

Oregon Reproductive Rights Leaders Participate in National Walkout and Moment of Solidarity

Oregon’s leading reproductive rights activists will gather Monday morning in Portland to participate in the National Walkout and Moment of Solidarity in support of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford. Speakers will include representatives from Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon and NARAL Pro-Choice Oregon PAC.

Dr. Ford has bravely come forward and shared her story about how Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her. Since coming forward publicly, she has endured harassment online and offline, received death threats, been forced to move out of her home and take leave from her job, and has been the target of false accusations from right-wing politicians. She should be applauded for her courage and bravery.

The National Walkout and Moment of Solidarity follows last week’s press conference when Oregon’s political leaders came together in opposition to Kavanaugh, who would overturn Roe v. Wade and chip away at access to safe, legal abortion if given the chance.

Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon and NARAL Pro-Choice Oregon PAC will also be calling on gubernatorial candidate Knute Buehler to break his silence about Kavanaugh, whose nomination was announced more than two months ago. Last year, Buehler voted against safeguarding the right to abortion in Oregon if Roe v. Wade is overturned.

WHAT: Oregon reproductive rights leaders participate in National Walkout and Moment of Solidarity
WHEN: 10am Monday, September 24th
WHERE (NOT FOR PUBLICATION): Planned Parenthood, 3727 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland

###

On September 22, 2018 at approximately 0246 hours CCSO Deputies responded to the area of NE 139th Court and NE 91st Street on the report of suspicious noises.  A 911 caller reported hearing "explosions".   As deputies arrived in the area, they spoke with area residents reporting that juveniles had been in the area in a vehicle, throwing firework mortars. 

A resident was able to show a deputy video footage of a mortar being thrown from a dark colored, four door vehicle with silver wheels.  The vehicle was described as possibly being a Nissan.  The thrown mortar landed in the driveway of a residence. 

There were no injuries and no property was damaged.

There are no additional details on this incident.

Disaster Responders with the local chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a home fire disaster on Sunday, September 23, 2018 at approximately 1630 hours in the  14500 block of Spenner Road SE in Stanton, Or, which affected 3 adults and 2children.

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic life needs of those affected, such as temporary housing, food, clothing comfort kits including toiletries and including  information about recovery services and  health and mental health services. Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department. 

The Red Cross in Oregon and SW Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families each day. The Red Cross Advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online application at www.redcross.org/GetAnAlarm to schedule an appointment.

Friday, September 21, 2018 – Ridgefield, Washington – Driving along Hillhurst Road, there are several construction sites—but only one with student artwork brightening the construction fence.  Students from Tamara Hoodenpyl’s second year illustration class are creating outdoor art panels along the fenceline at Ridgefield High School. 

Hoodenpyl encouraged her students to view the project as artwork they were producing for a client.  “They had to create a theme for their client, the high school, so they decided to use athletics and activities from the school,”  she said.

The panels cover a wide range of activities, including robotics, drama, debate, and sports.  Using blue circles and orange lines that appear across each of the canvases, the students selected unifying designs and colors to tie the panels together.

The students are enjoying the creative outdoors project.  Senior Kyshaun Summers, painting the drama and music panel, said, “I didn’t expect this, but I’m glad I get to do it.  It’s something new.” 

Senior Nolan Brown, working on the speech and debate panel, added, “It’s a good opportunity for everyone to see all the clubs that are available so they can get out here and get involved.”  

Keep an eye on the fences to see the finished projects and to learn more about activities at RHS.

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Designing the Landscape of Clark County

Vancouver, WA – On Thursday, October 4, the Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) will be hosting their next First Thursday Speaker Series event, which is sponsored by Clark County’s Historic Preservation Commission. Our speaker, Clark County Historic Preservation Commissioner and CCHS Board Member, Sean Denniston, will highlight the local and regionally renowned architect, Day Hilborn. This program will highlight Hilborn’s background, legacy, and architectural masterpieces. General admission is $5.00, seniors and students are $4.00, children under 18 are $3.00, and the evening is FREE with a CCHM membership. Doors open at 5:00pm, the event begins at 7:00 pm. The museum encourages attendees to get there early, as it is first-come, first-served seating.

According to WA State's Department of Archaeology & Historical Preservation, "No single person in the history of Southwest Washington has had a greater impact on the physical built environment than architect, Day Hilborn. His projects span a 40-year period and define many of the cultural institutions of (Clark County and beyond)." His most notable works in Clark County include the County Courthouse, the Kiggins Theater, the Kiggins Bowl Stadium, Vancouver Federal Savings & Loan building, and the First United Methodist Church.  

Brad Richardson, CCHM’s Executive Director, said,”Hilborn’s buildings are illustrative of the changing landscape of architecture in Clark County throughout the 20th Century.  He designed numerous schools, banks, churches, theaters, and homes throughout the Pacific Northwest. From the Kiggins Theatre to the Spic-N-Span Drive-In (now Muchas Gracias), a great deal of Clark County history has taken place in spaces designed by Hilborn.”

Day Hilborn was born in Michigan in 1897, though his family moved to the Seattle area when he was still young.  Shortly after graduating from high school, he enlisted in the Army and was active in skirmishes along the Texas-Mexican border. He also served in France during WWI. While he was there, he sent home many lovely sketches of buildings that he found interesting. When he was able to return to school, he received degrees in structural engineering and architecture at Washington State College in Pullman, WA.

Hilborn was socially conscious and well-rounded. He was the first president of the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects. Also, he chaired the committee to revise Clark County building codes.  He served for many years on Vancouver’s Court of Appeals, all the while being active in his church, the Salvation Army, and vocal/theatrical groups. He is described by those that knew him well, as an artist and a gentleman.

CCHM is honored have Mr. Denniston host this special event and be able to share this thoroughly unique window into Clark County’s past with our community.

Sean Denniston – He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture at the University of Oregon where he also minored in Architectural History and Religious Studies. He earned his Master’s Degree in Historic Preservation at the University of Pennsylvania.

Though his career path has taken him into sustainability, it has always been with a focus on historic preservation, whether rehabbing old houses in Philadelphia or serving as New Buildings Institute’s existing buildings specialist. This dual interest resulting in him leading the collaboration that rewrote the definition for “historic building” in the national model codes and restructured how the energy code applied to historic buildings. His recent service on the Clark County Historic Preservation Commission has allowed him to bring his preservation knowledge to serve the community of Clark County.

For more information, please contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or by email at events@cchmuseum.org.

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The Clark County Historical Museum is operated by the Clark County Historical Society (CCHS), which is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization governed by a Board of Trustees. CCHS works in partnership with Clark County and the City of Vancouver to operate the museum in a 1909 Carnegie Library building. Our vision is to facilitate a more educated and connected community through meaningful engagement with history. CCHM is located at 1511 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98660 – just off the I-5 and Mill Plain Blvd. Daily hours of operation: Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. For further information, call 360-993-5679, email info@cchmuseum.org, or visit cchmuseum.org. CCHM’s First Thursday Speaker Series is sponsored by Clark County’s Historic Preservation Commission.

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham Police is asking for any witnesses of a Sept. 21 hit and run to come forward. Yesterday around 9:21 p.m., police responded to a collision involving a car and a pedestrian on NE Hogan Dr. south of SE Stark St. Police arrived on scene and found that the pedestrian was seriously injured. The involved vehicle had fled the scene.

Police learned that the pedestrian had been crossing NE Hogan Dr. and not in a crosswalk when he was struck by a black four door sedan. He was transported to the hospital with serious injuries. The vehicle was last seen fleeing southbound on NE Hogan Dr.

Anyone who witnessed or has information about the collision is asked to call the Gresham Police at 503.618.2719.

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a single family fire affecting 3 adults and 1 child on September 21, 2018, at 20:54 hours in the 3700 block of Ne Royal View Avenue in Vancouver, Wa.

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits with toiletry items and information regarding recovery services. Any additional information regarding this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department.

The Red Cross in Oregon and SW Washington (The Cascades Region) helps an average of three families affected by disasters like home fires every day. The Rd Cross advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online form at www.redcross.org/GetAnAlarm to schedule an appointment.

Missing Endangered - Aguirre, Juan V (88)  last seen at 9612 NE 21st Street at approximately 1145 hours, wearing a blue wool sweater, blue jeans, with mismatched shoes, one grey slipper, one brown slip on loafer, Hispanic male, approximately 6'0, 200 lbs, grey hair, brown eyes. Has early on set dementia and gets confused and lost easily. If located contact Police via 911 or 311 (in Clark County). Case 2318-14524

UPDATE: An alert viewer saw the flashnews and Mr Aguirre is now safely home.

On 9/19/2018 at 19:09 hours the Clark County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 3100 block of NE 88th Street to investigate a vehicle vs pedestrian hit and run collision involving a 13 year old female.  The child sustained serious injuries and was transported from the scene by ambulance.  The Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit is actively investigating this incident and has identified and secured a vehicle believed to be involved.  The vehicle, a gray 2001 Jeep Cherokee, has been seized as evidence and is being processed.  The vehicle was reported to be stolen out of Vancouver sometime on 9/19 prior to the hit and run collision.  Detectives are investigating all possible leads at this time.   The identity of the 13 year old victim is not going to be released by the Sheriff’s Office.  This is an active investigation and no other information regarding the victim, suspected driver, or owner of the vehicle is being released at this time.

Vancouver, Wash., September 21, 2018 — More than 150 nonprofits that provide services in southwest Washington combined forces yesterday for a 24-hour, online giving marathon called Give More 24! The event, organized by the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, kicked off at midnight on Thursday, September 20 and inspired thousands of people to give to local causes online at www.givemore24.org. Part of the draw was the chance to double your contribution through $500,000 in matching funds and the potential to help an organization win one of the nineteen $1,000 nonprofit prizes available.

The event’s fifth year also became its largest, with 155 organizations and 3,692 donors partnering to raise more than $1.35 million. Collective donations surpassed the event’s $1.2 million goal at 9:41 p.m. and continued rolling in until midnight, raising nearly $326,000 more than last year’s effort.

“The thing that stood out most for me was our momentum,” said Jennifer Rhoads, President of the Community Foundation. “We really shot out of the gates thanks to the excitement and community that our nonprofit partners built.”

Rhoads referenced the dozens of official events organized by participating nonprofits and local businesses. Some of the more unique offerings included a mac and cheese eating contest at Mill Creek Pub in Battle Ground, carpool karaoke rides chauffeured by the Journey Theater Arts Group, and a Battle of the Lawyer Bands staged by the Clark County Volunteer Lawyers Program. The Community Foundation also hosted a morning rally in Propstra Square that attracted about 100 people, as well as a cast of costumed characters and Timber Joey.

During the many events, donors were encouraged to visit the Give More 24! website and make charitable gifts. Here, donors could search through the participating organizations and filter by cause area or location to help identify nonprofits they would like to support. Cause categories include interests such as animal welfare, arts and culture, education, environment, health, housing, hunger, religion, social justice and veterans.

“There are hundreds of incredible organizations working hard to improve southwest Washington, and this event is a fantastic way for folks to learn about some of them,” Rhoads said. “In this way we empower people to choose what they’re most passionate about, while also empowering nonprofits to do greater good in our community.”

As an online event, most donors give from home or work, and some donations even come in from outside the area. This year, 5,749 gifts ranging from $5 to $10,000 came in from 40 states and 3 countries. When the event closed, Lower Columbia School Gardens was the most popular organization with 212 gifts tallied. The most successful fundraiser was Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School with $82,204 in total giving. While it led the large-sized organizations, Teach One to Lead One ($41,835) topped the medium-sized category and the Southwest Washington Symphony ($29,632) raised the most for small-sized organizations.

Looking at the big picture, the causes that attracted the most funds during Give More 24! were Education ($358,405), Health & Wellness ($194,998) and Youth ($192,576). As for total donors, the order changed slightly, with Education (1,445), Health (708) and Homelessness & Housing (664) being the most popular. The bulk of giving came from southwest Washington. In fact, about half of the online gifts came from Vancouver residents (2,783). Longview (589), Portland (274) and Battle Ground (255) were the next most active cities.

“Giving online together allows us to see the power of our collective efforts in real-time,” Rhoads said. “Twenty dollars from here, one-thousand from there and so on until you create this huge impact at the end of the day.”

“It’s incredible to see what was once a seed of an idea rally so many people and foster community connections,” Rhoads said “We’re extremely thankful to have so many great nonprofits and committed sponsors to make this community effort better every year.”

Davidson & Associates Insurance representing PEMCO Insurance served as the presenting sponsor of Give More 24! Further financial support is provided by power sponsor Bank of America and supporting sponsor Columbia Bank. For full details on Give More 24! including a leaderboard detailing which nonprofits and causes raised the most funds and donors, visit www.GiveMore24.org.

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A portion Esther Short Park in downtown Vancouver was closed temporarily today while Police investigated a suspicious package.  

On Friday, September 21, 2018 at about 1 pm, Vancouver Police responded to Esther Short Park, 605 Esther St, Vancouver, WA, to investigate the report of a suspicious person placing a handbag next to a tree and walking away.  Officers located the bag next to a large tree on the east side of the park but could not locate the person who left it there.  Several witnesses reported the man was wearing a mask and behaving strangely.

Due to the suspicious circumstances, and the fact that the bag was closed and could not be visually inspected by Officers, the Portland Metro Explosive Disposal Unit (MEDU) was requested for assistance.  MEDU used a robot and x-rays to inspect the item and did not detect any explosives.  As a final precaution MEDU fired a projectile into the bag to ensure it was safe to handle.

The bag was found to contain common personal items and nothing dangerous.

Esther Short Park was reopened and Police are no longer on scene.

There is no additional information available at this time.

The Centennial School District Governing Board of Directors will meet in regular session Wednesday, September 26, 2018 in the board room of the district administration office, 18135 SE Brooklyn St., Portland, OR 97236 at 7:00 p.m.

Among the items on the agenda, the board will consider a revised policy regarding the use of unmanned aircraft systems - a.k.a. drones.

The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet in Klamath Falls October 7-8. 

On October 7, Commissioners will gather at 1:00 p.m. at the historic Oregon Bank Building (905 Main St.) for a walking tour of the downtown district including Sugarman’s Corner and the IOOF building.

On October 8 a public business meeting will begin at 9 a.m. at the Klamath County Museum located at 1451 Main Street, Klamath Falls 97601. The agenda includes discussion on Oregon Heritage Traditions, reports on Commission programs, and a review of the Commission’s bylaws.

The Heritage Commission is comprised of nine people representing Oregon's heritage and geographical diversity who have been appointed by the Governor. There are nine advisory representatives from state agencies and statewide organizations. The mission of the Oregon Heritage Commission is to secure, sustain, and enhance Oregon's heritage by ensuring coordination of heritage initiatives by public and private organizations; advocacy on its behalf; education of the public about its extent and value; and promotion and celebration of its diversity.

Commission meetings are open to the public and their agendas include opportunities for public comment. The meeting site is accessible to people with disabilities. Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986?0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting.

For more information and accessibility needs, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Oregon Heritage Commission Coordinator Beth Dehn at 503-986-0696 or eth.Dehn@oregon.gov">Beth.Dehn@oregon.gov.

Contact: Todd McCallister

The ALS Association Oregon and SW Washington Chapter

info@alsoregon.org

 800.681.9851 ext 102

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Join the Movement to Cure ALS and help The ALS Association Walk to Defeat ALS

[Portland, OR] (September, 2018) – On September 23rd, The ALS Association Oregon and SW Washington Chapter’s annual Portland Metro Walk to Defeat ALS will take place at the World Trade Center in Portland, Oregon.  Registration for the Walk starts at 11 a.m. with a special opening ceremony beginning at 11:45 a.m.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. The disease robs people of the ability to walk, to talk and even blink an eye. It traps them inside a body they no longer can control and ultimately prevents them from breathing as it takes their life.  People living with ALS lose the power to use their legs, hold someone close, and simply say, “I love you,” before their bodies gradually shut down. There is no known cause of the disease, although military veterans are approximately twice as likely to develop ALS as the general population. Every 90 minutes someone is diagnosed with ALS, and every 90 minutes someone loses their battle to this fatal disease. Living with ALS can cost up to $250,000 annually, depleting families of all savings.

The event will feature pizza from Papa John’s, and live music from the Nu Wavers.  The event is underwritten in part by VC Fund, Fred Meyer, Providence Brain & Spine Institute, among many other local partners. We will also be providing special acknowledgement to our national walk partner, Numotion, in recognition of reaching 1 million dollars donated in support of ALS Association, nationwide!

40 people living with ALS along with 140 teams and an estimated 3,500 event participants will be in attendance. This year’s goal is to raise $350,000. 
 

“Our chapter is dependent on events such as the Walk to Defeat ALS to ensure we meet the needs of people living with ALS in the Portland Metro area,” said Lance Christian, the Oregon and SW Washington Chapter’s Executive Director. “The Walk to Defeat ALS truly celebrates the heroes we all love who are living or who have lived with this horrible disease.”

The Walk is open to the public, and all funds raised will be donated to the chapter for care services programs and for research. The chapter offers all services to people living with ALS and their families free of charge. Last year, more than 3,500 walkers raised more than $373,000 for the Portland Metro Walk.

Since 2000, the nationwide events have experienced constant participant growth and have raised more than $275 million toward the goal of creating a world without ALS. To learn more about the Portland Metro Walk to Defeat ALS and to register or donate, call 800.681.9851 ext 105 or visit www.PortlandMetroWalktoDefeatALS.org.

About The ALS Association

The ALS Association is the only national non-profit organization fighting ALS on every front.  By leading the way in global research, providing assistance for people with ALS through a nationwide network of chapters, coordinating multidisciplinary care through certified clinical care centers, and fostering government partnerships, The Association builds hope and enhances quality of life while aggressively searching for new treatments and a cure.  To learn more about the local Chapter, visit www.alsa-or.org.

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Contact: Todd McCallister

The ALS Association Oregon and SW Washington Chapter

info@alsoregon.org

 800.681.9851 ext 102

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Join the Movement to Cure ALS and help The ALS Association Walk to Defeat ALS

 

[Vancouver, WA] (September, 2018) – On September 22nd, The ALS Association Oregon and SW Washington Chapter’s annual SW Washington Walk to Defeat ALS will take place Esther Short Park in Vancouver, Washington.  Registration for the Walk starts at 11 a.m. with a special opening ceremony beginning at 11:45 a.m.

 

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. The disease robs people of the ability to walk, to talk and even blink an eye. It traps them inside a body they no longer can control and ultimately prevents them from breathing as it takes their life.  People living with ALS lose the power to use their legs, hold someone close, and simply say, “I love you,” before their bodies gradually shut down. There is no known cause of the disease, although military veterans are approximately twice as likely to develop ALS as the general population. Every 90 minutes someone is diagnosed with ALS, and every 90 minutes someone loses their battle to this fatal disease. Living with ALS can cost up to $250,000 annually, depleting families of all savings.

 

The event will feature pizza from Papa John’s.  The event is underwritten in part by VC Fund, Fred Meyer, Providence Brain & SpineInstitute, and Numotion, among many other local partners.

 

Many people living with ALS along with 35 teams and an estimated 600 event participants will be in attendance. This year’s goal is to raise $100,000. 
 

“Our chapter is dependent on events such as the Walk to Defeat ALS to ensure we meet the needs of people living with ALS in the SW Washington communities,” said Lance Christian, the Oregon and SW Washington Chapter’s Executive Director. “The Walk to Defeat ALS truly celebrates the heroes we all love who are living or who have lived with this horrible disease.”

 

The Walk is open to the public, and all funds raised will be donated to the chapter for care services programs and for research. The chapter offers all services to people living with ALS and their families free of charge. Last year, more than 500 walkers raised more than $120,000 for the SW Washington Walk.

 

Since 2000, the nationwide events have experienced constant participant growth and have raised more than $275 million toward the goal of creating a world without ALS. To learn more about the SW Washington Walk to Defeat ALS and how to register or donate, please call 800.681.9851 ext 105 or visit www.SWWashingtonWalktoDefeatALS.org.

 

About The ALS Association

The ALS Association is the only national non-profit organization fighting ALS on every front.  By leading the way in global research, providing assistance for people with ALS through a nationwide network of chapters, coordinating multidisciplinary care through certified clinical care centers, and fostering government partnerships, The Association builds hope and enhances quality of life while aggressively searching for new treatments and a cure.  To learn more about the local Chapter, visit www.alsa-or.org.

 

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Date:               Monday, September 24, 2018

Time:               6:00 p.m. Regular Meeting

Location:         Hockinson School District Board Room

Address:          17912 NE 159th St.; Brush Prairie, WA 98606

On September 20, the "High Fire Danger Burn Ban" was lifted in all areas served by Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, including portions of Washington, Clackamas, Multnomah, and Yamhill counties.

It is important to note that the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality's backyard burning season does not begin until October.

Learn more: http://www.tvfr.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=498 

Portland Children’s Museum Opens New Exhibit

DreamScape Opening in October

PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Children’s Museum is excited to announce the opening of their newest exhibit, DreamScape, on Friday, October 12, at 9 a.m. The renovated gallery welcomes families to ask ‘what do dreams look, feel, and sound like’ as they explore and tinker with new and recycled materials. Children and adults alike will delight in recognizing everyday objects repurposed to evoke and reimagine dreaming. This space features activities that play upon the darkness of night and the lightness of daydreaming, including a blacklight play zone, light-ribbon weaving area, and sand art light box. In addition, guests are asked to contemplate what inspires them with a reading area featuring stories of dreaming big, and a collaborative writing corner to share what dreams they have for the future.

“Dreams are universal, whether we’re asleep at night or daydreaming,” says Jeremiah Sazdanoff, Director of Museum Experience. “From an early age, dreams can produce powerful feelings of joy, uncertainty, and everything in between. Research tells us that we use our brains the same way whether we’re awake or asleep: to process information, construct narratives, and help make meaning of the world around us. DreamScape explores the playfulness and mysteriousness of what dreams can look like, feel like, and sound like. We hope the exhibit will help families explore what possibilities exist when our dreams come together for a better future.”

The DreamScape exhibit will be open from October 12, 2018, to January 6, 2019, every day from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

About Portland Children’s Museum

Portland Children’s Museum is located at 4015 SW Canyon Road in Portland and is open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children 0-10 and their grown-ups discover a world of hands-on experiences designed to let their creativity and imagination soar at Portland Children’s Museum. Our mission is to develop innovative problem-solvers through playful learning experiences, and there’s no better place to have fun and learn at the same time! Explore nature in Outdoor Adventure, splash in Water Works, create in Clay and Maker Studios, and pretend play in The Market, Pet Hospital, and Theater--plus so much more. Come make, play, and share with us!

LOCATION In Washington Park across from Oregon Zoo; 4015 SW Canyon Road, Portland, 97221 HOURS 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily

DAILY ADMISSION Museum members: Free | Under age 1: Free | Ages 1–64: $11 | Ages 65+: $10 | Military: $9

CONTACT 503-223-6500 | portlandcm.org | facebook.com/portlandcm | twitter.com/portlandcm | instagram.com/portlandchildrensmuseum

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(Salem, Ore.) — The executive committee of the Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC) will meet from 1:30 to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2018, at the Barbara Roberts Human Services Building, 500 Summer St. N.E., Room 160, Salem, Oregon, 97301.

The meeting is open to the public.

The agenda includes regular ODC business, review and approval of the meeting agenda and prior meeting minutes, public comment, announcements, ODC business topics, other topics and next meeting agenda ideas.

Those who can’t attend in person may call into the meeting using this conference line and access code: 503-934-1400, 563077.

The meeting location is accessible to people with disabilities. For questions about accessibility or to request an accommodation, please contact Lori Watt at Lori.C.Watt@state.or.us. Requests should be made at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting. For questions about the meeting, please contact: Jeff Puterbaugh, policy analyst at Jeffrey.L.Puterbaugh@state.or.us.

About the Oregon Disabilities Commission

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

# # #

OREGON CITY – Want to know what’s under your hood and how to keep it running? Clackamas Community College offers entry-level automotive and small engine repair courses that are open to the community.

For those wanting to learn about basic automotive care or are thinking about a career in the automotive service industry, CCC offers AM-100 Automotive Fundamentals. This course provides an overview of the automotive industry, fundamental knowledge and basic experience about automobiles. Students will learn automotive systems, preventative maintenance and performing basic repairs. They will also learn how to purchase cars, choosing quality mechanics and making good economic decisions about repairs and costs.

Interested in learning how to maintain and repair small-engine equipment? Clackamas Community College has a course for that too. AM-118 Small Engine Repair is designed to provide an overview of basic small engine maintenance, operation and repair. Students will learn safety, small engine theory, electrical systems and troubleshooting for both two-cycle and four-cycle engines such as outdoor equipment, motorcycles and ATVs.

“Whether you want to learn how to take care of your car or repair your lawnmower, Clackamas Community College has a course for you,” David Bradly, CCC auto body collision repair/finishing instructor, said. “For those seeking a career in auto service, we have a variety of degrees and certificates that will quickly get you into a high-demand, well-paying job.”

For more information, contact Sharon Brown at onbr@clackamas.edu">sharonbr@clackamas.edu or 503-594-3046. To register for a course, visit https://onlineapplication.clackamas.edu/.

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William Gregory Douglas, age 35, of Cave Junction, Oregon, is tentatively set to make his initial appearance before a federal magistrate judge on Monday, September 24, 2018, on charges that he threatened employees of YouTube. FBI Agents arrested Douglas outside a convenience store in Cave Junction on Thursday, September 20, 2018, without incident. 

According to the criminal complaint filed in this case, Douglas started making threats online on August 23, 2018, using the alias "LiamXmaiLRevolutionX". The criminal complaint alleges that Douglas posted a series of tweets that included language such as "I would kill the 100 YouTube employees," "you want a bigger mass casualty aka shooting let's see what I can do," and "return my channel you low life Sholes before someone else comes and shoots more of your employees." On September 17, 2018, LiamXmaiLRevolutionX posted a message to @SusanWojcicki: “Susan I'm coming for you today #pray." Susan Wojcicki is the CEO of YouTube.

The complaint also details three videos in which the subject identifies himself as William Douglas. In those videos, he “provided long rants about the ‘Deep State’ and stated he has been ‘shadow-banned’ from YouTube, which he described as a government operation.” In one video, “he stated he has to go to Mountain View to ‘visit’ people at YouTube.” Approximately 700 people work at the YouTube premises in Mountain View, California.

Douglas faces charges of Cyberstalking and Transmission of Threats in Interstate Commerce to Injure Another.

A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and all defendants should be presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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Kelso School District has selected Olympia-based FORMA Construction Company as their General Contractor/Construction Manager (GCCM) to build the first two of three new elementary schools as part of the bond measure approved by voters in the February election. 

On September 11th, a committee from the district interviewed two finalists from the bidding process: FORMA and Emerick Construction. During the interview process, both companies gave presentations, reviewed a case study, and went through a question and answer session. FORMA was selected based on top scores from the interview process, having numerous GCCM jobs in Western Washington, and providing the best bid proposal.  

FORMA’s recent GCCM work building public schools includes projects in Federal Way, Centralia, Bainbridge Island, Edmonds, and Anacortes School Districts.  Also of note, FORMA has a SW Washington work crew that will be employed for Kelso’s projects. 

The Kelso School Board will vote to approve the GCCM selection at their next meeting on Monday, September 24th.

Portland - Saturday, September 22nd  from 8am - 5 pm, Five Rings Jiu Jitsu will host a Grapple-a-Thon to raise funds for their program at Friends of the Children-Portland. Grapplers are raising funds through peer-to-peer fundraising and entry fees to bring the art and skill of Jiu Jitsu to youth ages 6-18 who are enrolled at Friends of the Children, a local mentoring program that selects children in kindergarten and pairs them with a full-time professional mentor who guides them through their entire childhood - 12 1/2 years, no matter what.  The youth who have participated in the Jiu Jitsu program have developed greater self-esteem, conflict resolution skills and an increased respect for others. Five Rings Jiu Jitsu is located at 3105 SW 87th Avenue, Portland, OR 97225.

8:00-9:45 am  -- Kids Activities for youth ages 3-12 years old

9:45-10:00 am --Adult Grappler Check In

10:00 am - 12:45 pm - All Age Grapple a Thon

12:45-1:15 -- Official Grapple a Thon Presentation

BBQ Lunch hosted in the parking lot.

1:15-5:00 - All-Age Grapple a Thon

The mission of Five Rings Jiu Jitsu is to inspire health, wellness and growth in its members and our community through grappling, fitness and service.

To sponsor a grappler, visit http://friendspdx.org/get-involved/grapple-a-thon.

The Oregon Military Department will be hosting an event in honor of National Public Lands Day at Biak Training Center located at 2899 E 126 Highway, Redmond, Oregon from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Friday, September 21. 

The Oregon Military Department Environmental Branch was awarded a grant through the National Environmental Education Foundation and Department of Defense Legacy Resource Management Program to fund the event.  The theme for National Public Lands Day, 2018, is natural resource resilience and restoration. In this spirit, the event will focus on the importance of pollinator species and creating habitat for them to live in and will include a presentation on pollinator species, a hands-on bat house building workshop in the morning and a site clean-up activity in the afternoon.

Participants will include the Oregon National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program cadets and local home-school organizations. National Public Lands Day helps ensure people of all ages and abilities connect with public lands for recreation, hands-on learning and community building. The Oregon Military Department looks forward to hosting this event, continuing our role in environmental stewardship, and keeping our training lands sustainable for the future.

For more information please contact Valerie Arkell, Natural Resource Specialist, at 503-584-3198 or valerie.j.arkell.nfg@mail.mil.

Captions:

Cadet Jacob Becker stands in the foreground during clean up efforts coinciding with National Public Lands Day, Sept. 29.  Cadet Brendon Coleman picks up a piece of trash in the background on the right side of the photo.  After nearly six hours of work the nearly 120 cadets picked up several dumpster loads of debris from BLM land near Bend, Ore.

OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College is challenging people to rethink the fields of manufacturing and machining. Once thought of as hard-labor jobs in dirty workshops, the college is flipping the ideology of the industry with the grand opening of its new Industrial Technology Center (ITC) on the Oregon City campus.

The 44,424-square-foot facility is the new home of the college’s manufacturing, computer numerical control (CNC) machining and renewable energy programs, along with other in-demand career technical education programs. The ITC will increase access to affordable education programs, allowing students training for family-wage jobs or transfer to four-year universities. 

The facility features expansive manual and CNC lab space, a maker space/flex lab, partner space, state-of-the-art machine tool technology, a large renewable energy outdoor field lab and indoor/outdoor event space.

“This is not your grandfather’s workshop,” Cynthia Risan, dean of technology, applied science and public services, said. “Our students learn from industry-knowledgeable instructors on modern equipment in a state-of-the-art facility.”

Students who complete a certificate or degree in manufacturing have a quick path to middle-income jobs. According to WorkSource, the average manufacturing wage is $44,650 a year. The field currently has 94,110 jobs with the prediction of another 26,315 new jobs by 2025.

“The demand for employees in machining, welding and renewable energy is extremely high right now,” Mike Mattson, chair of the college’s manufacturing technology department, said. “Employers are at our door seeking qualified employees. Our employment rates are essentially 100 percent.”

For those ages 17-19, Clackamas Community College offers the TechHire grant to provide internship and work experience placement, education opportunities in manufacturing and related industries, career readiness training and student advising. Visit www.clackamas.edu/TechHire.

To celebrate the completion of the ITC, the college is hosting activities all day on National Manufacturing Day on Oct. 5. In the morning, high school students from neighboring school districts will tour the facility, see demonstrations and learn about career possibilities. In the afternoon, the college is hosting a vendor fair, and will complete the day with a grand opening event.

The community is invited to the grand opening, which begins at 4 p.m. There will be a short program, plaque dedication and ribbon cutting. Following the program, participants will enjoy refreshments, see machine demonstrations and go on tours of the building. The college is located at 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City.

The $28-million project is funded through a bond as well as an $8-million match for the state of Oregon. The ITC is one of several bond-funded projects at Clackamas Community College. Voters approved a $90-million bond measure in November 2014 to expand opportunities for students and to increase the skilled workforce in the community.

 For more information on the degrees and certificates available manufacturing at CCC, visit www.clackamas.edu/programs. For more information about the college’s bond projects, visit www.clackamas.edu/BondInformation. For questions about the grand opening, contact Public Information Officer Lori Hall at 503-594-3162 or i.hall@clackamas.edu">lori.hall@clackamas.edu.

- 30 -

Vancouver, Wash. – An exhibition of Kobie Moore’s artwork Below the surface is on display at the Rebecca Anstine Gallery in the Clark County Public Service Center through November 2018.

Moore paints on wood and allows the grain, knots, and imperfections from that surface show through the paint. She uses a thoughtful color palette and creates texture by adding layers of paint and then scraping away areas.

Kobie Moore received a bachelor’s of fine art from Oklahoma State University where she discovered a love of painting. She has lived in the Pacific Northwest for 12 years and the natural landscape has been an influence on her work.

There will be a reception for the artist 11:30am to 1pm Friday, Nov. 16 at the Anstine Gallery is located in the Clark County Public Service Center sixth floor, 1300 Franklin St.

You can learn more about Kobie Moore at KobieMoore.com.

The Rebecca Anstine Gallery is named in honor of Rebecca Anstine, a local artist and founding curator of the public exhibit space in the Public Service Center. She served as a Clark County Arts Commission board member.

The Anstine Gallery is open 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.

(Salem, Ore.) — The Governor’s Commission on Senior Services (GCSS) will meet from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018, at the Department of Human Services, 500 Summer St. N.E., Room 165, Salem, Oregon, 97305.

The meeting is open to the public. Agenda items include regular GCSS business, updates on the commissioner roster and legislative committee as well as setting the agenda for the full commission meeting on Oct. 11, 2018.

Those who can’t attend in person may call into the meeting using this conference line and access code: 503-934-1400, 58045895.

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

About the Governor’s Commission on Senior Services

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

# # #

SALEM, Ore. – The Unified Child and Youth Safety Implementation Plan Steering Team meets Tuesday, October 2 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Barbara Roberts Human Services Building, Room 137 B-D, 500 Summer St. NE, Salem. The meeting is open to the public.

Agenda items include: overview of priority projects, Oregon Child Abuse Hotline presentation and future agenda items.

Individuals unable to attend in person may call into the meeting and follow the presentation along online. Conference line: 1-877-848-7030; Participant Code: 285-3245. To follow presentation online, please use this link: https://bit.ly/2pegMhO.

The meeting location is accessible to people with disabilities. For questions about accessibility or to request an accommodation, please contact Kelsi Eisele at 971-283-1628 or kelsi.p.eisele@state.or.us. Requests should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting. A good faith effort will be made to fulfill requests.

For questions about this meeting, please contact: Kelsi Eisele, Communication Project Manager, at kelsi.p.eisele@state.or.us.

DHS developed the Unified Child and Youth Safety Implementation Plan, which defines a two-year scope of work for transforming the child safety system and governance structure. The project team is driving forward ten priority projects geared towards increasing child safety in Oregon. This steering team provides oversight, adherence to goals and will monitor and control projects within the Unified Child and Youth Safety Implementation Plan.

# # #

On Thursday, September 20, 2018, at approximately 4:00 pm, Marion County Sheriff deputies arrested Julian Pedroza, age 22 of Keizer. Pedroza was wanted by the Salem Police Department for the murder of Omisael Jacobo, who had been shot by Pedroza outside 2118 Lancaster Drive NE on September 2, 2018. Jacobo later died from his injuries on September 19, 2018.

Pedroza was taken to the Salem Police Department to be interviewed by detectives. He was then booked into the Marion County Correctional Facility on the charges of: Murder, Assault I and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

Due to Grand Jury proceedings, further information regarding the case will come from the Marion County District Attorney’s office.

###

UPDATE Attached is a composite sketch of the suspect.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please reference CCSO Case # 18-025832

Surveillance video of suspect/suspect vehicle (.mp4 format):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/qv49r9v03f9ptr3/18-025832-PepperSprayRobberySurveillanceVideo.mp4?dl=0

The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office is seeking tips following a Sept. 18 robbery and pepper-spray attack at an unincorporated Canby residence. Suspect and suspect-vehicle photos and surveillance video are attached.

At approximately 7:24 p.m. on Tuesday, September 18, 2018, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office deputies and Canby Police officers responded to a reported armed robbery on the 8900 block of S. Good Lane in unincorporated Canby.

The 911 caller had been flagged down by a male who had been pepper-sprayed in the face by the male suspect before fleeing the S. Good Lane residence with stolen items.

Sheriff's Office, Canby Police and fire personnel arrived at the scene. Fire personnel tended to the pepper-spray victim -- a friend of the residents at the address -- while deputies and officers investigated the scene and reviewed video footage from a Nest security camera at the residence.

Investigators soon learned the following:

Starting at approximately 6:58 p.m., a white male suspect wearing a black backpack approached from the south, walking through an orchard across the street and onto the property. The suspect then approached the house on the property, apparently kicking in the back-porch door and then breaking in through a back door into the kitchen.

Meanwhile, a suspect vehicle -- a late '90s red Ford Explorer with grey or tan trim, driven by an accomplice -- positioned itself on the property as a getaway vehicle.

One of the residents at the S. Good Lane address was out shopping while the suspect was gaining entry to her home. She received a notification from the Nest security system on her phone and asked a friend -- the eventual pepper-spray victim -- to check the property. The friend arrived at the property in a white truck (seen in the surveillance video) at approximately 7:14 p.m. to check the house for the possible prowler.

The friend told deputies he walked inside the kicked-in kitchen door. He then encountered the male suspect in the home. The suspect identified himself as "Todd Figs" -- and then pepper-sprayed the victim in the kitchen.

At approximately 7:15 p.m., the male suspect can be seen fleeing the house through the garage side door, carrying a large can of pepper spray in one hand and another item in his other hand. The robbery suspect then yelled "Go go!" and jumped into the passenger side of the suspect Ford Explorer, which fled westbound from the property toward Highway 170.

The vehicle's direction of travel after leaving the area is unknown at this writing.

Meanwhile, the pepper-sprayed friend ran out to the back porch with a gun, firing one round over the railing of the back porch down into the ground in an attempt to scare the suspect off.

Photos of the suspect and suspect vehicle are attached. Surveillance video (.mp4 format) can be downloaded here:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/qv49r9v03f9ptr3/18-025832-PepperSprayRobberySurveillanceVideo.mp4?dl=0

MALE SUSPECT DESCRIPTION:

• White male
• Approximately 6'0" tall
• 200-215 pounds
• Wearing black ball cap with what looked like a silver sticker on the bill, red t-shirt, cargo shorts, white socks, black Adidas shoes.
• Wearing black backpack on his back and black gloves
• "Scraggly" facial hair

SUSPECT VEHICLE DESCRIPTION:

• Older, possibly late '90s red Ford Explorer with a tan trim
• Might have a light colored sticker near the bottom center of back window
• Suspect driver not identified

The victim who had been shopping during the crime told deputies that items stolen include a Springfield XDS .40 caliber pistol, jewelry and her husband's medication. One or more dogs belonging to the residents may have also been pepper-sprayed during the robbery.

Crime Scene Investigators (CSI) responded to the address and processed the scene for evidence.

TIPS SOUGHT

Can you help us find the suspect or suspect vehicle in this case? Anyone with information is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office Tip Line -- by phone at 503-723-4949 or by using the online email form at https://web3.clackamas.us/contact/tip.jsp . Please reference CCSO Case # 18-025832.

[END]

News-release archive: https://www.clackamas.us/news?k&dept=161

SEE something, SAY something” Awareness Day September 25th, 2018

 On September 25th, 2018 the Oregon TITAN Fusion Center (OTFC) invites you to join us in celebrating the national “If You See Something, Say Something” (SEE/SAY) Awareness Day.

This campaign gives our partners throughout the nation and Oregon an opportunity to further promote this very crucial first line of defense against those who would seek to do harm to our communities.

As public safety officials and critical infrastructure owners and operators, you are uniquely qualified to lead this preventative effort in Oregon. As professionals and community members you see and interact with individuals in your area of responsibility that can make a difference in the prevention of criminal activity by reporting suspicious behavior. Continuing education of your colleagues, local business partners, and citizens will only strengthen our collective preventative efforts.

Unusual items or situations:  A vehicle is parked in an odd location, a package/luggage is unattended, a window/door is open that is usually closed, or other out-of-the-ordinary situations occur.

Eliciting information: A person questions individuals at a level beyond curiosity about a building’s purpose, operations, security procedures and/or personnel, shift changes, etc.

Observation/surveillance: Someone pays unusual attention to facilities or buildings beyond a casual or professional interest. This includes extended loitering without explanation (particularly in concealed locations); unusual, repeated, and/or prolonged observation of a building (e.g., with binoculars or video camera); taking notes or measurements; counting paces; sketching floor plans, etc.

Some of these activities could be innocent—it's up to law enforcement to determine whether the behavior warrants investigation. The activities above are not all-inclusive, but have been compiled based on studies of pre-operational aspects of both successful and thwarted terrorist events over several years.

Public safety is everyone's responsibility. If you see suspicious activity, report it to local law enforcement or a person of authority.

Describe specifically what you observed, including:

Who or what you saw;
When you saw it;
Where it occurred; and
Why it's suspicious.

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

Wood Village Mayor Timothy Clark is currently undergoing treatment for cancer. He recently finished radiation and will begin chemotherapy shortly. Council President Scott Harden will be available to lead council meetings and he and the rest of the council will step in to perform other duties as needed.

Mayor Clark stated "I continue to give thanks for being a part of this wonderful community which has already blessed us on this journey, and I hope to continue serving the community of Wood Village. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers on my behalf."

SALEM, Ore. – The United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service approved an adjustment to the Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) and the Standard Utility Allowance (SUA) in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps. The COLA sets the income guidelines and benefit allotment amounts, and the SUA determines the amount of heating and cooling costs an eligible person may claim. These adjustments will be effective on October 1, 2018.

Oregon SNAP participants do not need to take any action. The state will automatically recalculate cases and adjust when required. Families may experience the following: no change, a $9 increase or a $4 decrease. Changes are based on a family’s individual case and will be reflected in the October 2018 disbursement.

Currently, slightly less than one in seven Oregonians – or 626,038 Oregonians – receive food benefits through SNAP. The amount of benefits a SNAP participant receives is based on many factors, including income and deductions for necessities like shelter and utilities.

The change in the 2018 standards will not increase the number of people receiving SNAP, and it does not change program eligibility requirements. To be eligible for SNAP, most families must have income less than 185 percent of the federal poverty level and meet other eligibility factors. For a family of four, this means having gross income less than $3,870 per month. Some individuals or families, which include a disabled person or a person at least 60 years of age, can be eligible for SNAP benefits with income higher than this amount.

SNAP participants with questions about the changes can contact their local Oregon Department of Human Services office for assistance: oregon.gov/DHS/Offices/Pages/index.aspx

Based on latest US Census 2017 estimates & SNAP Participation numbers from July 2018

September 20, 2018

Contact: Pete Edlund, 503-559-2216, .m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

CCO Metrics and Scoring Committee meets September 21

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

When: Friday, September 21, 9 a.m. to noon

Where: Clackamas Community College Wilsonville Training Center, Room 210, 29353 SW Town Center Loop E. Wilsonville. Join the meeting by webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/7438627555801803523. Conference line: 888-204-5984, access code 1277166.

Agenda: Welcome, consent agenda, and updates; 2018-19 committee chair and vice-chair decisions; public testimony 9:25-9:35 a.m.; finalize 2019 benchmarks and improvement target floors; break; continue finalizing 2019 benchmarks and improvement target floors; health aspects of kindergarten readiness measure development update; adjourn.

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

# # #

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

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

If you need help or have questions, please contact Pete Edlund at 503-559-2216, 711 TTY, .m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

http://bit.ly/2DjrWvF

Salem, Oregon – Eugene artist Jovencio de la Paz will exhibit “Every stitch in the world of flames” in the Governor’s Office of the Capitol Building in Salem from Oct. 1 to Nov. 29.

De la Paz explores how textile processes—such as weaving, dye and stitchwork—intersect with broader concerns of language, histories of colonization, migrancy, ancient technology and speculative futures. Confronting issues of embodiment and disembodiment, his current work employs a hand-operated digital TC2 Jacquard loom to create textiles that exist between the physicality of cloth and the ephemeral states of digital. His work in “Every stitch in the world of flames” capitalizes on the lineage that unites hand-looms, punch-card Jacquard looms and IBM’s early punch-card computers. The resulting textiles are familiar in their tactility and surface, but alien in their digital geometries and pixelated distortions.

De la Paz received an MFA in Fibers from the Cranbrook Academy of Art (2012) and a BFA in Fiber and Material Studies from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (2008). He has exhibited work in solo and group exhibitions both nationally and internationally, most recently at The Museum of Contemporary Art (Denver, Colorado); Ditch Projects (Springfield); The Art Gym (Marylhurst); ThreeWalls (Chicago); Casey Droege Cultural Productions (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania); The Alice (Seattle); Carl & Sloan Contemporary Art (Portland); 4th Ward Projects (Chicago); SPACE Gallery (Portland, Maine); SOIL Gallery (Seattle); and Uri Gallery (Seoul, South Korea). He regularly teaches at schools of art, craft and design throughout the country, including the Ox Bow School of Art (Saugatuck, Michigan), the Haystack Mountain School of Craft (Deer Isle, Minnesota), and the Arrowmont School of Craft (Tennessee). De la Paz is a co-founder of the collaborative group Craft Mystery Cult, established in 2010.

The Art in the Governor’s Office Program honors selected artists in Oregon with exhibitions in the reception area of the Governor’s Office in the State Capitol. Artists are nominated by a statewide committee of arts professionals who consider artists representing the breadth and diversity of artistic practice across Oregon, and are then selected by the Arts Commission with the participation of the Governor’s Office. Only professional, living Oregon artists are considered and an exhibit in the Governor’s office is regarded as a “once in a lifetime” honor. Artists whose work has previously been shown in the Governor’s office include Henk Pander, Michele Russo, Manuel Izquierdo, James Lavadour, Margot Thompson, Gordon Gilkey and Yuji Hiratsuka.

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

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

Firefighters from various Polk County fire agencies, including Dallas Fire & EMS and SW Polk Fire District, will be assisting the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife with a prescribed burn at Blaskett Slough Wildlife Refuge today. Fire crews on scene will begin ignition shortly after noon and will remain on scene to monitor the fire. Please be aware that smoke and flames will be visible along HWY 99 and HWY 22 near the interchange.  Prescribed burns such as this one, provide valuable training to our firefighters in a wildland setting as well as help the Refuge maintain its native vegetation. 

CANBY FIRE DISTRICT BOND MEASURE TO BE PLACED ON NOVEMBER 2018 BALLOT

 The Canby Fire District’s Board of Directors have unanimously agreed to place an approximately $4.9 million bond measure on the November 6, 2018 ballot. The bond will be Measure 3-542. According to Board President Steve Thoroughman, “Canby’s population has grown by approximately 61% since the main station was built in 1996 and calls for fire and medical emergencies have grown by 131% during the same time period. Funds from the bond measure would help ensure the District maintains its current level of emergency response services by allowing it to upgrade fire and medical response equipment, as well as the District’s two stations, to support the number of firefighter/medics required for our current emergency call volume.” Canby Fire Chief James X. Davis reports that in 2017, District firefighter/medics responded to 2,888 calls for service. According to Davis, “Funds from the bond measure would be used to upgrade the District’s medical response and firefighting equipment — for example, cardiac monitors.” Chief Davis also said bond funds would be used to purchase a ladder truck, which is needed as the height of buildings in Canby continues to increase.

In addition, bond funds would be used to create a Northside Medical Response Station, which would improve emergency medical response north of the railroad tracks. Some upgrades to the District’s second station, which is located south of Canby on Highway 170, would also be made with funds from the bond. This station responds to emergencies in the southern part of the District and is staffed by volunteers. Cost of the approximately 10-year, $4.9 million bond measure is estimated to be 28¢ per $1,000 of assessed value. For property assessed at $280,000, about average for residential property in the District, the cost is estimated to be about $78 per year or about $6.50 a month.

This is the first time the Canby Fire District Board of Directors have placed a bond measure on the ballot. Canby Fire serves over 30,000 residents and businesses in the towns of Canby and Barlow, as well as the surrounding area. 

Nine out of 10 businesses visited in Tigard on September 19, successfully passed an OLCC check for alcohol sales to minors. The Tigard Police Department assisted the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) with the recent compliance check. This grant-funded effort consists of a team of two Tigard Police officers and an OLCC inspector accompanying a nineteen year-old volunteer. The group visited the pre-selected establishments in Tigard, which either sell or serve alcohol. Oregon Revised Statutes set strict guidelines for the OLCC regarding minor decoy operations at businesses selling alcohol. Throughout the year, checks are conducted unannounced at randomly selected businesses to ascertain compliance regarding the sale of alcohol to minors. Compliance checks may also be initiated based upon complaints lodged with the OLCC or local law enforcement.

This recent alcohol sales check in Tigard demonstrates 90 percent compliance, which greatly exceeds the statewide average of 78 per cent (2018).  Historically, compliance rates in Tigard peaked as high as 100 percent (2016) and drew dismal compliance figures as low as 30 percent (2009).

One way police are working to combat the problem of underage drinking is to partner with coalitions that help educate and support our community’s youth in efforts to promote healthy and substance-free lifestyles. Tigard Turns the Tide is one example. You can learn more about this community coalition at www.tigardturnsthetide.org  In addition, Tigard Police plan on continued enforcement and additional compliance checks to reaffirm the importance to affected businesses that the sale of alcohol to minors will not be tolerated.

A digest of links to the week’s news from Pacific University

Center for Civic Engagement and Tom McCall Center for Policy Innovation Merge

Oregon Optometric Physicians Association Awards Inaugural Scholarships to Pacific Optometry Students

Public Invited to Pacific University on Sept. 24 to Meet Candidates for Washington County Commissioners Chair

Coming Attractions

Women’s Volleyball vs. Whitman - Friday, Sept. 21   All Sports Schedule

Men’s Soccer vs. Willamette – Sunday, Sept. 23

Washington County Commissioners Chair Candidates – Monday, Sept. 24

Rotary Club of Forest Grove Weekly Meeting – Wednesday, Sept. 26

Senior Preview Scholarship Days – Friday, Sept. 28

Cawein Gallery Exhibit - Swash, New Paintings and Drawings – through Sept. 28 (M-F 1-5 p.m.)

                                                                                                                                                                        -pacificu.edu-

Pacific University is a small, but diverse learning community, where students thrive in a personal academic environment. Tracing its roots to 1849, when it was chartered as a school for orphans of the Oregon Trail, Pacific has long been devoted to making a difference in the world. Today, students study in a unique combination of undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in the liberal arts and sciences, business, education, health professions and optometry. Located in Oregon, Pacific serves a diverse population of more than 3,900 students, with campuses in Forest Grove, Hillsboro, Eugene and Woodburn. At Pacific University, students and faculty develop close, nurturing relationships that provide an extraordinary educational experience.

Banks, OR — The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will host its annual Salmonberry Coalition meeting from 6-9 pm Oct. 4 at the Banks Fire District, 13430 NW Main St.

The agenda includes a presentation on the recently completed Salmonberry Trail Valley Segment Plan, updates on fundraising and an assessment of the current STIA governing structure.

The Salmonberry Coalition is a stakeholder group consisting of public and private partners focused on making the Salmonberry Trail a reality. The 84-mile Salmonberry Trail corridor will connect the cities of Tillamook and Banks and cross through two counties, passing by the Oregon coastline, fisheries, farmland and the rugged Oregon Coast Range. The route follows the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway, which closed in 2007 after experiencing catastrophic storm damage. The STIA was established to promote and facilitate coordinated direction and guidance in planning, development and maintenance of the multi-use trail.More information on the project is at http://salmonberrytrail.org/.

For more information, contact Dennis Wiley, Salmonberry Trail Project Manager at 503-986-0723 or dennis.wiley@oregon.gov.

At 6:45a.m. this morning, multiple callers to 9-1-1 reported dark smoke and flames coming from one side of a duplex located in the 9000 block of SW 91st Avenue in unincorporated Washington County close to Tigard. 

Firefighters responding to the scene could see a plume of smoke. The first crew from TVF&R’s Progress fire station arrived within four minutes of being dispatched and quickly began to douse flames while searching for a female occupant who was known to be inside. Sadly, when they found her, she was already dead. Due to privacy rules, we are unable to release the fire victim’s name. 

The 69-year-old woman who lost her life resided in the home with her brother. Though he was able to escape the home, he was treated for smoke inhalation and transported by Metro West Ambulance to an area hospital. The occupant of the neighboring unit was unharmed but will be displaced due to smoke and water damage. A TVF&R chaplain is supporting residents and neighbors after the traumatic event.

A fire investigator is working to determine where and how the fire started. Washington County Sheriff’s Office is supporting the investigation and provided traffic control during the fire. A Washington County medical examiner will verify the cause of death.

Firefighters did not hear smoke alarms when they entered the home and it did not have a fire sprinkler system. When a fire sprinkler system is present, the likelihood of injuries and costly damage is dramatically reduced. More information about fire sprinkler systems can be found at: http://www.tvfr.com/index.aspx?nid=144

Vancouver, Wash. –  The City will hold a forum on Monday, Sept. 24 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Hilton Vancouver (301 W. 6th St.) to discuss ways to utilize the Vancouver Affordable Housing Fund to increase the city’s supply of affordable housing.

“We encourage prospective Vancouver Affordable Housing Fund applicants and others interested in affordable housing development to attend,” said Community Development Program Manager Peggy Sheehan. “City staff will be available to talk about the affordable housing fund and answer zoning questions.”

City staff and local and statewide funders will talk about available financing and partnership opportunities, including:

• Washington State Housing Finance Commission
• Washington State Department of Commerce
• Washington Community Reinvestment Association
• Impact Capital
• Vancouver Housing Authority
• Clark County Department of Community Services
• City of Vancouver Affordable Housing Fund
• Community Foundation of SW Washington

To reserve a seat, please email Peggy Sheehan at peggy.sheehan@cityofvancouver.us.

The City is now accepting applications for $6.04 million in funding for housing construction, acquisition and rehabilitation. Grants are available for projects that preserve or create affordable housing for residents earning 50 percent or less of the area median income (approximately $36,650 for a family of four). Creative and out-of-the-box ideas are welcomed. Local government agencies, non-profit organizations, for-profit developers and individual property owners may apply.
 
Applications are due on or before Wednesday, Oct. 31 at 5 p.m.  The Vancouver City Council will determine what projects receive funding in January 2019.
 
About the Affordable Housing Fund
The Affordable Housing Fund was created when Vancouver voters approved Proposition 1 in the November 2016 general election. The passage of the proposition granted the City the ability to levy a property tax for the purpose of buying, building and preserving low-income rental housing and preventing homelessness through rental assistance and other housing services.
 
For more information about the Affordable Housing Fund, visit www.cityofvancouver.us/affordablehousingfund.
 
###

September 20, 2018

Report: Levels of metals in air, soil near Uroboros too low to harm health

OHA public health assessment applies to adults, children living near glass maker

Levels of metals measured in the air and soil around Uroboros Glass in north Portland are too low to harm the health of people living, working and playing near the facility, according to a new state public health assessment.

The Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division today released the assessment for a 45-day public comment period. Uroboros was an art glass manufacturer that ended operations at its North Kerby Avenue location in September 2017. The Uroboros public health assessment concluded that concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, chromium and other metals detected near the facility between March and July 2016 were below health-based concentration limits, and too low to harm human health. It also found that soil samples collected around Uroboros in February 2016 contained levels of metals that were below health risk values.

"The Uroboros public health assessment was important for determining just what level of health risk people in the area faced related to emissions from the glass factory prior to 2016 and going forward," said Todd Hudson, a toxicologist with the division's Environmental Health Assessment Program (EHAP). "What we found was that risk was, and has been, low."

The 2016 data comes from air samples collected by four Oregon Department of Environmental Quality air monitors deployed around Uroboros. The monitors operated 24 hours a day, with one air sample taken each day, resulting in more than 350 individual samples collected. DEQ also collected a total of 27 soil samples from Albina Park, Albina Community Gardens and a nearby daycare facility.

"It is safe to eat homegrown produce that was grown around the area of Uroboros Glass," Hudson said. "Most garden vegetables do not absorb metals."

The Public Health Division began work on the Uroboros assessment, along with similar assessments for Bullseye Glass Co. and Precision Castparts Corp. in southeast Portland, in spring 2016. The assessments were launched in response to significant community concerns about health risks from past, present and future exposures to heavy metals emitted from the facilities after a research project discovered elevated levels of metals in tree moss around Portland.

In its assessment, EHAP used the federal Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry (ATSDR) standard public health assessment process. The assessments examine health risks based on soil and air data collected near the facilities. Such assessments are not community health studies and do not determine whether existing health issues are caused by environmental exposures.

In addition to 2016 data, the Uroboros assessment looked at past exposures to metals emitted from the facility. Examining air sampling results from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency studies at Harriet Tubman Middle School, located northeast of Uroboros, in 2009 and 2011, OHA toxicologists found that cadmium levels were above "cancer-based" health values in 2009 and chromium levels were above those values in 2011. However, the increased risk of getting cancer after exposure to the measured levels of cadmium, chromium and arsenic in the air—one additional cancer case for every 10,000 people exposed—did not meet the threshold for health risk as defined by ATSDR.

"The 2009 and 2011 data show us that there may have been some risk from past exposure, although that risk was low. Unfortunately, that data is extremely limited," Hudson said. EPA took only 13 air samples over 13 weeks in 2009 and 46 samples over eight weeks in 2011. These small numbers increase uncertainty about health risk in those years. However, the extensive 2016 monitoring allows OHA to state with confidence that risk of harm to health remained extremely low.

Hudson noted that Uroboros had not used arsenic for many years and agreed in early 2016 to stop using trivalent chromium, a less-toxic form of the metal. He also said that proposed new rules made through Cleaner Air Oregon, the state initiative to strengthen Oregon’s regulation of industrial sources of air toxics, would apply emission limits on any new industrial facility that moves into the building where Uroboros once operated.

To read a summary of the report and the full report findings and recommendations, visit the OHA Uroboros webpage at https://healthoregon.org/uroborospha. Copies of the report can also be reviewed during regular library hours at the Multnomah County Library, 3605 NE 15th Ave., Portland.

OHA is accepting public comment on the draft Uroboros public health assessment until Nov. 5 at 4 p.m. Comments can be emailed to ehap.info@state.or.us or sent to: Attn: EHAP, 800 NE Oregon Street Suite 640, Portland, OR 97232.

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http://bit.ly/2xqw088

Every three days, an Oregon veteran takes his or her life.

According to the latest data from the VA, Oregon veterans commit suicide at a rate that is significantly higher than the state’s general suicide rate. In Oregon, veterans represent only 8 percent of the population, but account for 16 percent of the suicides.

Veteran advocates across the state and nation are investing significant resources to address the issues believed to be risk factors for veteran suicide. Both nationally and in our state, data is informing the policy and funding to address the core issues impacting veteran suicide. This data is also influencing how we do outreach and the community partners that are crucial to ending this crisis.

Taking a hard look at the data helps advocates identify groups with a high risk for suicide that might otherwise be overlooked, like the aging population (55 and older), which in our state, comprises 60 percent of veteran suicides. 

“As a veteran, these numbers are deeply painful to me,” said Kelly Fitzpatrick, newly appointed director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “When we were in service, our most basic instinct was to protect the one on our right and the one on our left, and those instincts don’t just go away after we leave the service.”

Suicide has become a public health concern that causes immeasurable pain among individuals, families, and communities across the country. Veterans specifically, are committing suicide at a much higher rate than that of the general population. The VA estimates that the national number of veterans who take their own lives is 22 people every single day.

“Every single one of those 22 veterans matters in infinite ways,” Fitzpatrick said. “Every veteran matters.  Each has served his or her county and the impacts of their service are as unique as they are. Although veterans all gain great strength from serving our country, it’s not surprising that many of us also face challenges when reintegrating back into civilian life. These challenges can easily lead to crisis, depending on the individual’s experiences, support network (or lack thereof) and other factors.”

On average, 70 percent of veterans who end their lives never engaged the VA for services. Just as every veteran matters, so does every accessible wraparound service to address the myriad of risk factors that increase the likelihood of a veteran taking their own life. Major risk factors include: a prior suicide attempt, mental health conditions, stressful life events such as the loss of a major relationship, job loss, the death of a loved one, and the availability of lethal means.

Veterans may have additional unique risk factors from their service that increase their likelihood to commit suicide including a service-related injury (mental and physical), and life transition from military service to civilian life. Both of these factors, left unresolved may increase their likelihood of choosing to end their life.

And this work is not happening only on a national level. Here in Oregon, Gov. Kate Brown has made it one of her administration’s top priorities to end veteran suicide in our state, by taking concrete steps to ensure at-risk veterans have adequate access to care, housing and mental health treatment.

Veteran advocates need the community’s help to raise awareness of veteran suicide and the resources that exist. Oregon veterans need to know that regardless of the life circumstances, there is an entire community behind them who understands and has the best expert help and resources available to help them address the very real life issues they are experiencing.

“We must also work together to remove the stigma associated with asking for help,” Fitzpatrick said. “Military service members undergo rigorous training to be self-reliant, so the challenge of admitting you are facing something you can’t overcome on your own is often harder for veterans than civilians. Other veterans are key in this. Those who have faced mental health challenges can offer great strength and courage to veterans in crisis simply by being open and honest about their own stories.”

Any veteran or person concerned for a veteran in crisis can call the confidential 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Veterans PRESS 1. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website has crisis and longer-term self-care information for veterans, as well as information for friends and families who are concerned for their loved one, including finding support, asking for help and stories from survivors of suicide attempts.

For assistance in accessing and learning about the local, state and federal veteran benefits and resources like service-connection compensation, pensions, employment, education, housing, or other veteran services, contact Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs or a county veteran service office. 

Statewide contact information, along with additional benefit and resource information, is located online at www.oregon.gov/odva.

The Oregon Clinic’s Newest Gastroenterology Facility Will Begin Seeing Patients Next Week

Newberg, OR – September  20, 2018 – The Oregon Clinic is celebrating the opening of its newest facility, a Gastroenterology specialty clinic located in Newberg, Oregon. Built from the ground up, the new 19,000-square-foot building houses a fully-functioning clinic and endoscopy center. Newberg is now the seventh location served by The Oregon Clinic gastroenterology specialty services in the greater Portland area. Physicians will begin seeing patients at the new facility on Monday, September 24, 2018. 

Specialists in Newberg will care for and diagnose a wide range of digestive diseases and symptoms, including abdominal pain and bowel difficulties, reflux, swallowing problems, colon and intestinal organ cancers, hepatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, liver and pancreatic problems, and many other conditions. The new ambulatory surgery center will perform colonoscopy and upper intestinal endoscopy services and will increase access locally for these diagnostic and life savings procedures. Once fully up and running, at least seven gastroenterologists will see between 15,000-20,000 patients in Newberg each year. 

“We’re thrilled to give our patients more options and easier access to care,” says Dr. Jeff Douglass, gastroenterologist at The Oregon Clinic. “This new facility will enable more people to get timely colonoscopies and the care they need, right in the community where they live.” 

The Oregon Clinic’s gastroenterologists have had a presence in Newberg since 2006, seeing patients a few half days each week at the Newberg medical office building while also caring for hospital patients around the clock. Over the past several years, The Oregon Clinic’s Tualatin gastroenterology office has been operating at full capacity, and the length of time patients are waiting to get an appointment in Newberg and Tualatin has continued to increase. The new facility will enable The Oregon Clinic to have a full-time presence in Newberg, shortening patient wait times for appointments and seeing many more patients locally. For many patients who travel from the Oregon Coast and throughout the greater Yamhill County area to see The Oregon Clinic’s gastroenterologists in Tualatin and other locations, this new facility also decreases travel time to appointments. 

This new facility means expanded access to colon cancer screening and prevention with colonoscopy for Newberg and surrounding communities. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends all adults get screened for colon cancer beginning at age 50, sooner for those with family history or risk factors. Yet despite colon cancer being the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States, Yamhill County has been an underserved area: only 55% of Yamhill County adults are current on screening, compared to 72% and 73% for neighboring Washington and Clackamas counties, according to the Oregon Health Authority. 

The new facility will ultimately bring more than 20 jobs to local communities, divided between the new facility in Newberg and openings in Tualatin as existing staff transfer to the new location. 

The building was designed by Jon Anderson from Anderson Dabrowski Architects and constructed by Mortenson. Additional local partners included Brad Christiansen at Colliers International real estate, Klosh Group construction consulting, Samuels Yoelin and Kantor Attorneys at Law, and Columbia Bank.

Patients seeking appointments at the new facility can call 503-692-3750. 

The new facility is located at:

The Oregon Clinic Gastroenterology South at Newberg

879 Providence Drive

Newberg, OR 97132

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About The Oregon Clinic
The Oregon Clinic is the largest private specialty physician practice in Oregon. Our 270 providers give respectful, compassionate care at more than 550,000 patient visits each year. Founded in Portland in 1994, The Oregon Clinic is committed to delivering the highest quality patient care, practicing evidence-based medicine, and providing leadership for the healthcare community. We collaborate with primary care physicians and use a team approach to address health conditions at 60 specialty clinic locations across northwest Oregon and southwest Washington. Call 503-935-8000 or visit www.oregonclinic.com for more information.

Traffic will be closed to all traffic on Southwest Sacajawea Boulevard between Southwest Park Place and Southwest Sherwood Boulevard during the week of Sept. 23. This includes vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians. Traffic control will be set up Sunday, Sept. 23, and removed by end of day Friday, Sept. 28.

The Washington Park Reservoir Improvement Project will begin receiving deliveries of segments of a tower crane. Delivery will begin arriving at approximately 7 a.m. Monday, Sep. 24 by tractor trailer via Southwest Park Place, Lewis Clark Way and then to Sacajawea. It will take more than a dozen deliveries to get all the segments delivered. During this week, the crane will be erected on site.

Local residents and visitors to the park should still expect delays, watch for signs, plan extra time for trips, and consider alternate routes and modes of transportation to get to destinations.

Impacts include:

Park Entrances and Exits

• Southwest Park Place will be open for entrance to the park via Southwest Lewis Clark Way.
• Southwest Sacajawea Boulevard will be closed, closing park exits via Southwest Park Place.

Intermittent Delays

• Southwest Lewis Clark Way will experience intermittent delays between Southwest Park Place and Southwest Sherwood Blvd.

Multi-Use Shared Path

• A designated path separates pedestrians and cyclists from vehicles on Southwest Lewis Clark Way.
• Pedestrians and cyclists can use the path to travel both in and out of the park on Southwest Lewis Clark Way.
• Cyclists are required to walk and not ride bicycles on the paths.

Trails

• Madison Trail: The trail will be closed.

About the Washington Park Reservoir Improvement Project

The Portland Water Bureau’s Washington Park Reservoir Improvement Project will seismically strengthen key water infrastructure on Portland’s west side and help ensure a healthy, resilient, and secure water system. When complete and online, the new reservoir will supply water to Portland’s west side and serve more than 360,000 people, including all downtown businesses and residents, industrial customers, 20 schools, three hospital complexes, more than 60 parks, and some of Portland’s world class attractions. It will also provide fire suppression.

For more information, visit www.portlandoregon.gov/water/wpreservoirs.

More than $4.8 million awarded to seven Oregon tribes and one tribal commission

WASHINGTON – U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams joined the Department of Justice in announcing more than $113 million in grant awards to improve public safety, serve victims of crime, combat violence against women, and support youth programs in American Indian and Alaska Native communities, including: the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission; Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians; Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation; Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation; Coquille Indian Tribe; Cowcreek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians; and Klamath Tribes.

“Pursuing justice on behalf of tribal communities and supporting the development and growth of tribal law enforcement agencies, courts, and victim services has been a key focus of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for many years,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “These awards mark the Justice Department’s continued commitment to ensuring all tribes have the resources necessary to keep their communities safe and effectively enforce the administration of justice on tribal land.”

Nationwide, grants were awarded to 133 American Indian tribes, Alaska Native villages, and other tribal designees through the Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation, a streamlined application for tribal-specific grant programs. Of the $113 million, just over $53 million comes from the Office of Justice Programs, more than $35 million from the Office on Violence Against Women, and more than $24.7 million from the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services.

In addition, the Department is in the process of allocating up to $133 million in a first-ever set aside program to serve victims of crime in American Indian and Alaska Native communities.  The awards are intended to help tribes develop, expand and improve services to victims of crime by providing funding, programming and technical assistance.  Recipients will be announced in the near future. 

“With these awards, we are doubling the amount of grant funding devoted to public safety programs and serving victims of crime in Native American communities,” said Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Jesse Panuccio, who made the announcement during his remarks at the 26th Annual Four Corners Indian Country Conference in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  “There is an unacceptable level of violent crime and domestic abuse in American Indian and Alaska Native communities.  This increase in resources, together with our aggressive investigation and prosecution of crimes, shows how seriously Attorney General Sessions and the entire Department of Justice take these issues.  We are committed to reducing violent crime and improving public safety.”

The Four Corners Conference is facilitated annually by U.S. Attorneys from Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah to provide a forum for discussion of justice-related topics with a large number of populous and diverse tribal nations located in the region.

CTAS awards cover nine purpose areas: public safety and community policing; justice systems planning; alcohol and substance abuse; corrections and correctional alternatives; children’s justice act partnerships; services for victims of crime; violence against women; juvenile justice; and tribal youth programs.   CTAS funding helps tribes develop and strengthen their justice systems’ response to crime, while expanding services to meet their communities’ public safety needs.

This announcement is part of the Justice Department’s ongoing initiative to increase engagement, coordination and action on public safety in American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

A listing of the announced CTAS awards is available at: go.usa.gov/xP2uc.

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Vancouver, Wash. – Due to changing weather conditions, Vancouver Fire Marshal Heidi Scarpelli has lifted the recreational burning ban within the city of Vancouver, effective at 12:01 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 20.

Recreational fires, campfires and fires in outdoor fireplaces or chimney-type devices are now allowed. This order applies to areas within the city limits only.

All outdoor burning of things like brush/vegetation and garbage is still prohibited within the city limits.

The burn ban originally took effect on July 26, due to very dry and windy weather conditions.

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BEND, Ore. – The Oregon Recreational Trails Advisory Council (ORTAC) will meet 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 4 in the boardroom at the Best Western Peppertree Inn, 1082 SW Yates Drive, Bend. The meeting is open to the public.

On the agenda: updates on various programs, election of officers for 2019 and selection of locations and dates for 2019 ORTAC meetings.

View the agenda online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/Trail_Programs_Services/Documents/ORTAC%20Agenda%20Bend%202018.pdf

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

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

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

The meeting location is ADA accessible. Individuals that need special accommodations to attend should contact Nicole Sprecher, Administrative Support Specialist, at 503-986-0968 or echer@oregon.gov">nicole.sprecher@oregon.gov at least three days in advance.

Just before 10 p.m., firefighters from Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue were dispatched to the report of a fire at a 7-Eleven store, located at 185th Avenue and Bronson Road, near Highway 26. A quick-acting employee at the store made the call to 911 while also evacuating other employees and a customer.

First incoming firefighters from Station 64, located in close proximity to the 7-Eleven store, arrived within minutes to find heavy black smoke inside the store that was also billowing out the eaves of the roof. The incident was immediately upgraded to a first alarm to bring in additional units to assist with firefighting efforts, since it was a confirmed working fire. As crews aggressively battled the flames, they found a significant amount of smoke in the attic space, with cause for concern that the fire may be spreading. The call was then upgraded to a second alarm, to bring in more firefighting resources to help fight the fire and due to the store being attached to multiple other businesses.

The fire was considered under control in approximately 30 minutes. Firefighters were able to keep the fire contained to the 7-Eleven store, preventing extension to connected businesses. Store employees and the customer evacuated unharmed and businesses in the connected units were closed at the time the fire broke out. 

The area of origin is near a refrigeration unit within the 7-Eleven store; however, the cause of what started the fire is unknown at this time. A TVF&R investigator is currently on scene.

Due to extensive fire and smoke damage, the 7-Eleven store will be temporarily closed for an unknown period of time while restoration work is performed.

TVF&R was assisted on scene by Hillsboro Fire and Rescue, NW Natural and Portland General Electric. MetroWest Ambulance provided medical standby services.