Beaverton, Oregon- On July 25, 2024, at 2:27 PM Beaverton police officers and Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue firefighters were dispatched to the 19000 Block of Tile Flat Rd. on the report of a single vehicle crash involving a white Jeep Wrangler. Reports indicated the Jeep lost control, went off the road, struck a tree and came to rest upside down. 

Officers and Firefighters arrived within minutes of being dispatched and determined the driver and sole occupant, 17-year-old Mai Grace Tankersley of Beaverton, was deceased.

At this time there is no indication of what caused Tankersley’s Jeep to crash. Drugs and alcohol are not suspected to be a factor and it is unknown how fast Tankersley’s Jeep was traveling prior to the crash. 

This is an open investigation. Members of the Washington County Crash Analysis and Reconstruction Team (CART) are investigating. If you or someone you know has information regarding this crash, please contact Beaverton Police Officer Steven Rogers at 503.526.2261.

CORVALLIS, Ore. – On July 16, 2024, a Benton County Circuit Court Judge sentenced Lawrence Lemaster Sr, 67, to 525 months prison time for sex crimes going back to 1990.

On May 17, 2024, a 12-person jury found Lemaster guilty of 21 offenses, including:

In April of 2021, detectives from the Benton County Sheriff’s Office and the Corvallis Police Department investigated reports of sex abuse by a male victim, who alleged sex abuse by Lemaster when he was four years old. Another victim, a female, reported abuse when she was 10 to 12 years old. Both victims were known to him.

“We are relieved to announce the conviction of a sex offender, a critical step in an ongoing commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of our Benton County community. The verdict reflects the tireless efforts of law enforcement and advocates who work diligently to protect our citizens,” stated Sheriff Van Arsdall. “We encourage victims to come forward and seek justice and know that we stand with them in their pursuit of safety and healing.”

BCSO would like to thank the Corvallis Police Department, the ABC House, and the Benton County District Attorney’s Office, for their assistance and prosecution of this case. 

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Firefighters from Clark County Fire District 6 are at the scene of a major natural gas leak on 99^th Street, directly in front of Columbia River High School. 

At least 10 households have been evacuated and the 99^th street is closed. Natural gas odor has been reported as far as 11 blocks away.

Reportedly, the leak happened after a contractor working on a water line project accidentally punctured a major gas line. The call came in at 4:03p.m.  Clark County Fire District 6 sent four fire engines and a Battalion Chief.

Questions regarding the timeline of fixing the leak need to be addressed to NW Natural.  We will stay on scene until traffic control is established. No injuries have been reported, and it’s quite likely the street will be closed for a few hours.   99^th Street is a major arterial, serving the Lake Shore and Felida neighborhoods.

Please add video/photo credit to Clark County Fire District 6 (not Vancouver). 

The Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team (SWIIRT), led by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, is continuing the investigation of the Vancouver Police Department’s (VPD) officer-involved shooting (OIS) that occurred on June 8th, 2024, on Columbia Way in Vancouver, WA.

Investigators are authoring reports to submit to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

Per WAC 139-12-030, which governs independent investigations, additional updates will be provided weekly.

The Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team (SWIIRT), led by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, is continuing the investigation of the Vancouver Police Department’s (VPD) officer-involved shooting (OIS) that occurred on June 17th, 2024, on NE Andresen Rd. in Vancouver, WA.

Investigators have submitted evidence to the Washington State Crime Lab and are authoring their reports to submit to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

Per WAC 139-12-030, which governs independent investigations, additional updates will be provided weekly.

On 7/21/24 at approximately 1326 hrs a witness called 911 to report finding a collision near 18600 NE 399th Street, Amboy, WA.   A vehicle and a motorcycle were involved in a collision leaving one person with significant injuries.  First responders arrived to find an involved person had succumbed to their injuries.  The Clark County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit was called out to conduct an investigation.  The roadway will be closed for several hours during the investigation. This case is active pending further investigation.  

Update 7/20/24 8:45pm

Larry has been found safe and is being taken home now. Thank you to everyone! He was found by some nice folks and called in.

The Clark County Sheriff's Office is asking for assistance in locating a missing endangered man.

Larry Kuntz is an 81 year old white male last seen near his residence in the area of SE 1^st Street and SE 165th Avenue in Vancouver WA. Larry was last seen wearing a blue baseball cap, a blue and khaki short sleeve shirt and khaki shorts.  

Larry has dementia and has not been seen for approximately 2 hours. 

If you locate / see Larry please call 911 immediately to report his location.

A photo of Larry is attached.

Firefighters quickly douse fire in the Scenic Columbia River Gorge

7/20/2024 1:41 pm

Media Contact: 

Lt. Ben Harvey, Corvallis Police Department

(541) 766-6556 / cpdpio@corvallisoregon.gov

Barricaded Subject on NW Lance Way

On July 20, 2024, at approximately 7:53 am Corvallis Police Officers were dispatched to 2052 NW Lance Way for a report of an armed barricaded convicted felon in the garage who was making threatening statements related to a pending jail sentence. The family left the residence and called the police. 

Corvallis Police officers arrived and created a perimeter to contain the situation. The community was notified to avoid the area via Nixle and the community immediately proximate to the address was provided additional instruction via electronic notice.  

The Oregon State Police was notified, and their SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) team responded to assist. Personnel from the Corvallis Police Department aided by Benton County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police contacted residents in the homes adjacent to the subject property in person to conduct evacuations. 

Contact was made through an Oregon State Police negotiator, and at approximately 1:21 pm, 27- year-old Jacob W. Jaeger of Corvallis exited the residence and peacefully surrendered to law enforcement personnel on site. Jaeger, who was uninjured, was arrested on the following charges:

ORS 166.270 Felon in Possession of a Certain Weapons

ORS 166.220 Unlawful Use of a Weapon 

ORS 166.250 Unlawful Possession of a Firearm

Jaeger was transported to the Benton County Jail and Lodged. 

Media Advisory is for scheduling purposes only

Embargoed until July 29, 2024

Please join us for a media roundtable on Monday (7/29) at 3:30pm at the Seaside Convention Center in Seaside, OR to discuss threat assessment in schools and communities throughout Oregon.

The FBI, Oregon Safety Resource Officers Association and Portland Police Bureau will be joined by Max Schachter, a national school safety advocate, whose son was killed in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in 2018. 

The panel will answer questions regarding threat assessments in schools and the community and will discuss the importance of partnerships of both school personnel, law enforcement and the public.

PANELISTS:

FBI Portland Assistant Special Agent in Charge Stephanie Shark, Moderator

FBI Portland Supervisory Special Agent Laura Monti, FBI Threat Assessment Group

OSROA 

Max Schachter, Safe Schools for Alex

Sgt. Hythum Ismail, Portland Police Bureau, Special Resources Division

WHEN:

Monday, July 29 at 3:30PM

WHERE:

Seaside Civic & Convention Center

415 First Avenue, Seaside, OR 97138

WHY:

Research has found that mass shooters don’t just snap.

They spend time thinking about violence and they plan, prepare, and often share indicators before their attacks. This means there are opportunities to identify someone who is on a pathway to violence - and prevent their attack.

Studies have also proven that before most mass attacks, someone observed concerning behaviors that were signs the person was on a path to violence. The people who noticed were often friends, family, schoolmates, coworkers, or loved ones.

YOU may be in a unique position to observe these signs in someone you know. Educating yourself on what to look for can be the key to preventing an attack of mass violence in your community.

The FBI released a new awareness campaign earlier this month to identify common concerning behaviors early on: Prevent Mass Violence — FBI

Please RSVP to: tland@fbi.gov">media.portland@fbi.gov

More information about OSROA and the Oregon School Safety Conference 

Seaside, Oregon – July 29th, 2024 – As the new school year fast approaches, the Oregon School Resource Officers Association is providing school districts and educators across the state a 3-day training, providing information to enhance school safety across Oregon. The 20th Annual Oregon School Safety Conference is being held Sunday, July 28th through Wednesday, July 31st, 2024, at the Seaside Convention Center in Seaside, Oregon. 

The Oregon School Resource Officers Association, also known as OSROA, is committed to promoting current best school safety practices for school educators and School Resource Officers. With increased safety concerns and risk related behaviors impacting our students and staff the past couple of school years, it is crucial that we approach school safety collaboratively in order to best address the physical, mental and emotional needs of our students.

OSROA in partnership with school safety contributors, will be providing school safety education through conference presenters like Max Schachter, whose son was killed in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, FBI Portland Supervisory Special Agent Laura Monti, Courtney McCarthy, a Threat Assessment and Behavioral Specialist and Dr. Bernie James, a Law Professor at Pepperdine University speaking on the legal impacts to both schools and law enforcement. These are just a few of the many other presenters at the school safety conference.

OSROA would like to extend an invitation to our media partners in Oregon to come and see the collaborative efforts by both law enforcement and school educators to be the best they can be together for the safety and security of our children in our schools across the great State of Oregon.  OSROA will be hosting a panel discussion to discuss Threat Assessments in Schools and the importance of partnerships of both school personnel and law enforcement. This will be an opportunity to see the real work behind the scenes on how schools in Oregon are diligently working to keep our children safe. 

Message from [Rick Puente, OSROA Vice President]:

"We are excited to welcome students back to school and are dedicated to ensuring their safety," said Rick Puente, Vice President of the Oregon School Resource Officers Association. "By working and training together, we can be certain our approach, our best practices and our outcomes will be beneficial for all students and staff, thus creating a more safe and secure educational environment where our children can learn and thrive."

About Oregon School Resource Officers Association:

We exist to support law enforcement agencies and school districts in the State of Oregon, and to provide resources and training to help maintain a safer, healthier school environment for students, faculty and guests. We are committed to growing strong relationships between schools and local law enforcement with an emphasis on keeping the safety and best interest of our students our number one priority.

You can learn more about OSROA at its website: www.osroa.net   

RELEASE DATE:                    July 26, 2023
CONTACT PERSON:            On-duty PIO
CASE NUMBER:                      24-30946

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham Police took two people into custody after responding to a report of a robbery. Officers responded to 911 calls reporting a robbery at gunpoint, shortly before 9:30 p.m. last night, at the Gresham Skate Park, at 49 SE Roberts Ave. The victims scattered, including some that ran into Johnson Creek when they fled from the suspects. Callers described three suspects that fled the area.

Gresham Police Officers, including UAS (Drone) and K9 officers, teamed up with assisting Multnomah County Sheriff’s deputies, and a Portland Police airplane in responding to the call. While officers were attempting to locate the victims, a resident called in a sighting of the people that matched the description of the suspect given by callers. An officer spotted three people matching the description of the suspects and they ran when the officer approached. One of the three was quickly located and a discarded firearm was located nearby.

A second person was spotted hiding in the backyard of an area home. When officers attempted to contact him, he ran and hid in the backyard of another residence. He was eventually taken into custody. A second firearm was recovered where the second suspect was first seen hiding.

The investigation into the robbery is ongoing. The two suspects were lodged at the Multnomah County Detention Center. Anyone with information that has not spoken to officers is asked to call the Gresham Police Tip-Line at 503-618-2719. Gresham Police Department partners with Crimestoppers of Oregon and anyone with information can also submit it through their website at http://www.crimestoppersoforegon.com or by using their mobile app.

https://apps.mcso.us/PAID/Home/Booking/1601387

https://apps.mcso.us/PAID/Home/Booking/1601388

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RELEASE DATE:                    July 20, 2024
CONTACT PERSON:            On-duty PIO
CASE NUMBER:                      24-30128
 

Gresham, Ore.—A traffic crash involving a motorcycle and pickup resulted in a fatality. At approximately 10:00 a.m., Gresham police officers and medical personnel responded to a report of a traffic collision involving a motorcycle and pickup at SE 190 Dr. and SE Cheldelin Rd. The operator of the motorcycle died as a result of his injuries from the collision. The driver of the pickup stayed at the scene and cooperated with the investigation. 

The crash investigation has been assigned to an East Metro Vehicular Crimes Team (VCT). Speed of the motorcycle is a factor that will be analyzed during the investigation.

Anyone who witnessed the collision and has not already spoken with an officer is asked to call the Gresham Police Tip-Line at 503-618-2719.

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RELEASE DATE:               July 20, 2024
CONTACT PERSON:         On-duty PIO
CASE NUMBER:                 24-30000

Gresham, Ore.— Missing 23-year-old, Brendan Bolsinger was located and returned home. Brendan left his home in the 1000 block of NE 193 Ave., shortly after 8:00 p.m. He was located in Wood Village and returned home. Gresham Police thanks everyone who shared Brendan’s photograph and helped find him so he could be safely returned home.

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On July 21^st, 2024 a Loss Prevention Officer at McKay’s Market in Lincoln City observed a white male adult shoplifting non-food retail items from a display towards the front of their store. When he confronted the man, he was initially compliant but soon began running through the store with the stolen items. A store manager stood near the exit while waiting for police arrival. The suspect approached and threw him to the ground, raising the incident to a felony-level robbery. The suspect ran from the property and was not located that day.

On July 25^th that same manager who had been thrown to the ground observed the suspect near the store and called police. Numerous officers responded and within two minutes of being dispatched had the man detained. Officers compared the man to the surveillance video of the crime and determined he was indeed the suspect who had stolen the items and thrown the manager to the ground.

Officers determined the suspect to be 45-year-old Donald Strangebird Littletree, an unsheltered man residing in Lincoln City. Police also learned Littletree was a Lincoln County Parole and Probation client out on release after a previous criminal conviction. Littletree was transported to the Lincoln County Jail and lodged on charges of Robbery III, Theft III, and Physical Harassment. He was subsequently released from the Lincoln County Jail a short time later.

As of August 1, 2024, the Lincoln City Police Department will be removing the drug take-back kiosk, also known as the “safe medication disposal box” or the “drug drop off.”  It is no longer practical for the Lincoln City Police Department to operate and maintain the kiosk at our current location. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

We understand that his may create a hardship for the citizens of Lincoln City and, in an effort to alleviate concerns, we would like to provide our citizens with other options in the area:

https://medtakebackoregon.org/ provides citizens with a list of local secure disposal or drop-off locations. These locations can be located on their website.

This program also provides a mail-back option, and mail-back supplies can be ordered via phone at (844) 4-TAKE-BACK or (844) 482-5322, or on their website at https://med-project.org/locations/oregon/mail-back-services/

The Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital pharmacy (located at 3043 NE 28^th Street in Lincoln City) also provides drug take-back services.  Citizens may bring their expired or no-longer-needed medications to the front desk during business hours (8:00 AM to 4:00 PM) and inquire at the front desk.  The pharmacist on shift will be able to dispose of the medications.

Finally, North Lincoln Sanitary Service offers a medical waste service for used syringes. A one-gallon container can be purchased from their office (1726 SE Highway 101 in Lincoln City) for $10.  Once the container is full, simply return it to their office and it will be disposed of.  The cost for disposal is included in the purchase price.

The Lincoln City Police Department would like to remind everyone that drug take-back programs protect our beautiful Oregon waterways and open spaces by reducing drug levels in ground-water systems.  By disposing of these drugs properly, and not flushing or throwing them away, we can make sure that the wildlife and our fellow humans aren’t inadvertently exposed to drug residue.

We appreciate your understanding as we remove this kiosk from our department.

Submitted By:  Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn

While many of us welcome the warmer weather, we must remember that some of our loved ones may find themselves in an uncomfortable predicament. It could even result in their death.

Pets regularly accompany many people on trips and errands, which often leaves them alone in a vehicle. Pets should not be left unattended in a parked car. On warm days, and even cloudy days, the temperature in a car can rise to dangerous levels in minutes, even with the windows left open.

A brief stop at a store or another errand can quickly turn into 15 minutes or more before we know it. Leaving pets in a car for this time could be a mistake that takes their life. Leaving the windows cracked won't cool the car enough to protect your beloved pet, even if they have water available.

Oregon was the 11th state to pass a Good Samaritan Law, which allows anyone – not just law enforcement – to enter a vehicle (by force or otherwise) to remove an unattended domestic animal without fear of civil or criminal liability. If you come upon a scenario where you believe an animal could perish, please contact our dispatch center at 541-265-0777 before deciding to enter the vehicle. Be ready to convey your location, the vehicle description, and a description of you. Our Animal Service Deputies will make every effort to respond quickly. 

If you determine that more immediate life-saving action is necessary, please ensure you do all of the following:

• have a reasonable belief that the animal is in imminent danger
• notify law enforcement or emergency services either before or soon after entering the vehicle
• use only the minimum force necessary to enter the vehicle
• stay with the animal until law enforcement, emergency services, or the owner or operator of the vehicle arrives.

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

 

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Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports yesterday on July 23, 2024, at 8:20 p.m., deputies located Jacob Reginald Bliss, 49, transient of the Lebanon area, driving a silver Hyundai in Brownsville. Deputies had been looking for Bliss to arrest him on numerous outstanding felony warrants.  Bliss’s warrants were for Probation Violation and Fail to Appear 1, where the original charges included Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine-Felony, and Felon in Possession of a Restricted Weapon. 

When deputies located Bliss, he stopped his vehicle and fled on foot near the 1000 block of Kirk Avenue in Brownsville. Bliss began running north towards a timbered area, and a K9 unit that was on scene was deployed to track him. Deputies and the K9 chased Bliss over fences, across a creek and through brush, before Bliss finally stopped running. Multiple deputies were on scene and took Bliss into custody.  Deputies did not use force and the K9 did not have contact with Bliss.  Within minutes of taking Bliss into custody, he began complaining of not being able to breathe and collapsed. 

Deputies unhandcuffed Bliss and began CPR and Narcan attempting to save his life until medics arrived.  Lifesaving measures were unsuccessful, and Bliss died on scene.

As this was an in-custody death, although only briefly, Lebanon Police Department was asked to investigate the death per standard protocols.  Lebanon Police Department is continuing the investigation to determine the cause of death, which is unknown at this time. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: July 23, 2024

Subject: Longview Fire Department Responds to Structure Fire on Virginia Way

LONGVIEW, WASHINGTON - On July 23, 2024, at approximately 07:45, the Longview Fire Department swiftly responded to a structure fire in the 3300 block of Virginia Way. Upon arrival, LFD crews encountered a working structure fire at the address.

The heroic efforts of LFD crews led to the efficient extinguishment of the fire and the successful rescue and care of the injured occupants. Three individuals were safely transported to SJMC for further treatment due to inhalation injuries.

During the operation, a bird and two dogs were rescued from the premises and reunited with their families. However, the resident's cat remains missing, and efforts to locate the pet are ongoing.

Regrettably, the home sustained substantial damage and is currently uninhabitable. The Red Cross has been notified, and the Longview Union L-828 Firefighters have extended their support by providing a voucher to the displaced occupants at the hospital.

The exemplary coordination and expertise displayed by twenty firefighters, three engines, one ladder truck, two ambulances, and four Chief Officers highlights the dedication of the Longview Fire Department in addressing such challenging situations.

The Longview Fire Department expresses gratitude for the valuable support provided by Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue, Medix Ambulance, Longview PD, and the PUD. Fire Investigators will continue to remain on the scene to determine the cause of the fire.

The Longview Fire Department urges everyone to recognize the importance of working smoke detectors in saving lives and to regularly check the batteries to ensure their functionality.

For further information, please contact the Longview Fire Department.

###

Thank you,

Mike Gorsuch

Battalion Chief

Longview Fire Department

Just before 10 AM this morning 911 callers reported a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle on State Street near 47^th Ave SE.  Deputies and emergency medical services personnel responded to the scene, lifesaving efforts were attempted at the scene, tragically the pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. 

State Street was closed between 46^th Ave and 47^th Ave for approximately three hours while investigators from the Marion County CRASH Team processed the scene. Investigators determined a silver four-door BMW was going eastbound when the pedestrian was struck.  The 53-year-old male driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. No citations or arrests have been made at this time.

The pedestrian was identified as Michael Sissell (61) of Salem. We offer our condolences to the family during this difficult time. 

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Marion County District Attorney’s Office, Marion County Fire District #1, Marion County Public Works, and the Marion County Medical Examiner's Office.  

On 7/20/2024 at about 1:05 PM, Officers from the McMinnville Police Department and personnel from the McMinnville Fire District, responded to 911 calls reporting a serious injury motor vehicle crash involving a motorcyclist and a pickup truck. 

The initial investigation indicates that Cooper D. Erickson (21 years of age from McMinnville) was riding a 2000 Kawasaki ZX9 motorcycle northbound on SW Hill Road. The posted speed limit on SW Hill Road is 35 miles per hour. Witnesses reported that Erickson was travelling unsafely, at a high rate of speed. Erickson lost control of the motorcycle just south of the intersection of SW Redmond Hill Road. He was ejected from the motorcycle, and the helmet he was wearing came off his head.

Both Erickson and the motorcycle continued in an uncontrolled high-speed slide, upon the roadway and shoulder. After travelling approximately 250 feet, both Erickson and the motorcycle impacted the passenger side of a 2012 Ford F150 pickup that was making a left turn into a private driveway on the east side of SW Hill Road. The operator of the pickup, and his passenger, were not injured.

Erickson was transported from the crash location by McMinnville Fire District Ambulance to an awaiting Life Flight helicopter at the Willamette Valley Medical Center. Erickson was flown to the Trauma Center at Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland. Sadly, Erickson succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at OHSU. His family has been notified and we extend our sincere condolences to the Erickson family.

The McMinnville Police Department was assisted by the Oregon State Police with on-scene crash reconstruction. No charges or citations are anticipated.

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The Milwaukie Police Department (MiPD) is excited to introduce a new canine resource. Through funding received from the Milwaukie Public Safety Foundation (MPSF) https://milwaukiepsf.org/, MiPD has acquired an Electronic Storage Device (ESD) Detection K9. 

The ESD K9 “Flora”, a 2-year-old fox red lab/golden retriever mix, is assigned to the investigations division and is primarily used to search for items in criminal cases requiring the seizure of ESD. These ESD include cellular phones, removeable memory and other kinds of electronics designed to store evidentiary data. K9 Flora trains with her handlers several times a day to stay sharp in search techniques. Flora is also certified in outdoor ESD searches having the ability to locate electronics devices with storage capabilities in several feet of moving water.

There are only a few ESD certified dogs in the State of Oregon and the demand is high for investigators to have a resource that can locate these electronic storage items which can often be very small and easy to conceal. Flora is trained to recognize a specific chemical used in the manufacture of semiconductor data storage devices and can easily locate them for investigators. 

K9 Flora comes with a bonus, she is a certified service dog who was initially trained to be an emotional support K9 for US Military Veterans.  While Flora is calm and personable, emotional support trainers learned she has a strong drive for scents and often it would distract her from her primary training. Fortunately, Flora was discovered by an ESD K9 training facility in the Midwest and found her true calling as an ESD detection dog.

Flora will work closely with MiPD detective handlers for her primary role in Milwaukie ESD cases as well as patrol handlers for comfort dog assignments and opportunities in the community. She will be available to assist in her ESD detection assignments with partner law enforcement agencies around the Northwest.

If you are curious about what Flora is up to, trot on over to Instagram and give her a follow “@K9Flora.” She tries to keep it fresh and light hearted.

On Thursday, July 25, 2024, at about 7:30 a.m., an adult in custody was found unresponsive in their cell at the Multnomah County Detention Center. A corrections deputy immediately called for jail medical staff and corrections and medical personnel began performing life saving measures. Despite those efforts, the adult in custody was pronounced deceased by AMR paramedics. 

As standard protocol, the East County Major Crimes Team responded to perform the death investigation, in conjunction with the Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office. The investigation is ongoing.

The person’s identity is being withheld until next of kin notifications are completed.

Any additional inquiries should be directed to the Medical Examiner’s Office. No further comment will be made at this time.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) takes seriously its responsibility to engage community stakeholders about the services the agency provides. Policy and procedure serve as the foundation for all MCSO law enforcement operations, correctional operations, and business services. Policy provides members with the objectives, limits, and requirements that apply to their work for the public. Procedure provides detailed direction governing how a task is to be accomplished. 

We invite the public to provide feedback on proposed policy and procedure(s) through a 30-day period known as the Stakeholder Review. During the policy’s Stakeholder Review, the public is encouraged to submit comments or proposals relevant to the content of the policy drafts. People who submit comments should be aware that their remarks become public record.

The Sheriff’s Office is currently in the process of reviewing the following draft(s): 

• 1225.00 Booking Photos, Usage
• 1340.00 Purchasing and Receiving Military Surplus Items
• 1400.00 Fleet Administration
• 1405.00 Vehicle Use and Equipment
• 1410.00 Take Home Vehicles
• 1415.00 Vehicle Replacement

To submit a comment, please go to our website.

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We take individual comments into collective consideration as policy is finalized.

To sign up for email notifications when policy reviews occur or get additional press releases from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, click here.

On July, 2024 at 1830 hours, Newport Officers were attempting to locate Benjamin Arthur Palm, 45 of Newport, who had been identified as a suspect in a Criminal Trespassing investigation.  Officers learned Palm was operating a black passenger car heading to an address near NE 5^th and NE Douglas. 

As Officers were searching the area they located Palm driving the black passenger car in the area of NE Avery Street and NE 1^st Street. Palm was observed driving in an erratic manner.  Newport officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but Palm refused to stop and began attempting to elude officers in the vehicle. Palm turned from NE 1^st Street and drove through a parking lot at a high rate of speed, then exited onto Hwy 20 without stopping, narrowly missing an oncoming vehicle.  Palm continued to drive recklessly by driving in the oncoming lane of travel, making erratic turns then turning off Hwy 101 and driving through a residential area at a high rate. 

Palm eventually stopped the vehicle in the area of SE 1^st Street and SE Coos Street, where he refused to exit the vehicle.  Officers ordered Palm to exit the vehicle multiple times but he refused.  Officers had to break the driver’s side window allowing them to open the door, remove Palm, and place Palm in custody.   

Palm was transported to the Lincoln Jail and lodged on the following crimes:

Benjamin Arthur Palm, 45 

Attempt to Elude 

Reckless Driving

Criminal Trespassing

Parole Violation

The incident remains under investigation.  If you have any information regarding this case, contact Officer Mangum of the Newport Police Department at 541-574-3348. The Newport Police Tip Line is available at 541-574-5455, or Text-a-Tip at 541-270-1856 or tipline@newportpolice.net.

SALEM, Ore. – Over the last week, firefighters have been challenged by hot temperatures and gusty winds that continue to push several wildfires across the state. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is calling on all Oregonians and visitors to be aware of the critical fire danger and take steps to prevent sparking a wildfire. The eastern side of the state is expecting abundant lightning, winds gusting near 60 miles per hour with passing thunderstorms, and hot temperatures.

“We are working with every tool we have to protect people and property,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “The Oregon structural fire service, our out-of-state firefighters, and our wildland partners are working relentlessly around the clock. I want to say thank you. This is a monumental challenge that every firefighter and support staff is rising to.” 

The structural fire service response has been immense. The OSFM has mobilized 489 firefighters, roughly 143 engines, and 32 water tenders to protect communities across the state. 

The OSFM has resources assigned to: 

• Lone Rock/Boneyard Fire (Gilliam, Morrow, Grant, and Wheeler counties) 
• Falls Fire (Harney and Grant counties) 
• Durkee Fire (Baker and Malheur counties) 
• Battle Mountain Complex (Grant and Umatilla counties) 
• Microwave Tower Fire (Wasco County) 

The OSFM is continually monitoring capacity within the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System and is in contact with out-of-state partners to be ready to respond to new fires if resources are needed. When communities are threatened by wildfire, the Oregon State Fire Marshal provides structural protection resources and support. While the agency focuses on protecting people and property, it works in lockstep with wildland partners from the Oregon Department of Forestry, the Bureau of Land Management, tribal agencies, and the U.S. Forest Service. 

Roughly 90 people are a part of the OSFM’s three incident management teams currently mobilized. Since July 9, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked seven times. 

On Sunday, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Battle Mountain Complex in Grant and Umatilla counties. The move by Governor Tina Kotek allowed the OSFM to send firefighters and equipment to protect nearby communities.  

For updates on the fires the OSFM has resources assigned to, visit www.osfminfo.org. Learn more about wildfire prevention here. 

Information Resources 

• Lone Rock/Boneyard: InciWeb 
• Falls Fire: Facebook, InciWeb 
• Durkee Fire: Facebook, InciWeb 
• Battle Mountain Complex: Facebook, InciWeb 

SALEM, Ore. - On Saturday, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the Durkee Fire in Baker County. The fire sparked Wednesday and continues to grow, threatening communities. The Baker and Malheur County sheriffs’ offices have levels 2 and 3 evacuation notices in place. 

As of Sunday morning, the fire was estimated to be 116,431 acres and zero percent contained. This fire is managed by the teams assigned to the nearby Cow Valley Fire in Malheur County.

Oregon is expecting another round of lightning and gusty winds over the next 24 hours. Red Flag Warnings extend across much of the state through Sunday. Oregonians are asked to pay extremely close attention to this critical fire danger and take the necessary steps to avoid sparking a fire. As of Sunday morning, there were 81 active fires that burned 504,692 acres in Oregon.

"This latest round of weather is extremely concerning,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Our firefighters are doing everything thing they can to rise to this immense challenge, but they are taxed, and we need our fellow Oregonians’ help. Please take precautions to avoid sparking a human-caused fire, be familiar with evacuation levels, and have a go-kit ready in case you need to leave your home.”

The OSFM has resources assigned to the following:

• Lone Rock/Boneyard Fire (Gilliam, Morrow, Grant, and Wheeler counties)
• Falls Fire (Harney and Grant counties)
• Durkee Fire (Baker and Malheur counties)
• Battle Mountain Complex (Grant and Umatilla counties)

Evacuations are ordered through the local sheriff’s offices. For information about updates, please follow the respective agency on social media.

The OSFM is continually monitoring capacity within the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System to be ready to respond to new fires if resources are needed. The conditions Oregon is seeing are dynamic, complex, and changing. The OSFM cannot thank the Oregon structural fire service enough for the tireless work these firefighters put in over the last two weeks.

While we remain in constant contact with the structural fire service, we are also working in lockstep with the Oregon Department of Forestry, the Bureau of Land Management, tribal partners, and the U.S. Forest Service.

For updates on the fires the OSFM has resources mobilized, visit www.osfminfo.org. 

Information Resources

• Lone Rock/Boneyard: InciWeb
• Falls Fire: Facebook, InciWeb
• Durkee Fire: Facebook, InciWeb
• Battle Mountain Complex: Facebook, InciWeb

Polk County, Ore. 23 July 24- On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at 6:17 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to two-vehicle crash on Hwy-22W, near milepost 20, in Polk County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Chrysler Sebring, operated by Mary Louise Nathe (73) of Salem, attempted to turn left onto Oak Grove Road and entered the path of a westbound Ford Expedition, operated by Karen Jean Bell-Stanerson (53) of Salem. The Ford struck the passenger side of the Chrysler in a side-impact collision.

A passenger in the Chrysler, Amanda Rose Nathe (41) of Salem, was declared deceased at the scene. The operator of the Chrysler (M. Nathe) was seriously injured and transported to a local hospital.

The operator of the Ford (Bell-Stanerson) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. An unsafe turn is considered the primary cause of the crash.

OSP was assisted by Dallas Fire, Polk County Fire, and ODOT.

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

Clatsop County, Ore 23 July 24- On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at 5:20 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-101, near milepost 15, in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Dodge Dakota, operated by Thoren Poole (33) of Seaside, entered the northbound lane for unknown reasons and struck a Ford F450, operated by Jeremy Townsend (50) of Warrenton, head-on. 

The operator of the Dodge (Poole) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford (Townsend) was seriously injured and transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The highway was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation.

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

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

Linn County, Ore 21 July 24- On Sunday, July 21, 2024, at 2:09 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 222, in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Lexus GS, operated by Isael Garcia (23) of Woodburn, rear-ended a northbound Toyota Camry, operated by Justin Michael Palmer (37) of La Center (WA).

The operator of the Toyota (J. Palmer) suffered reportedly serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital. 

A passenger in the Toyota, Scott Alan Palmer (53) of Camarillo (CA), was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Lexus (Garcia) suffered reportedly minor injuries. Garcia was medically cleared and arrested for DUII.

The highway was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation. The investigation is on-going.

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

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

Morrow County, Ore. 19 July 24- On Friday, July 19, 2024, at 3:10 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-730, near milepost 173, in Morrow County,

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Jeep Wrangler, operated by Anthony Daulton (41) of Las Vegas (NV), crossed into the eastbound lane for unknown reasons and struck an eastbound Nissan King Cab pickup, operated by Abraham Figuerou-Ayala (51) of Umatilla, head-on.

The operator of the Nissan (Figuerou-Ayala) and passenger, a male juvenile, were declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Jeep (Daulton) and passenger, Clarissa Ann Daulton (41) of Las Vegas (NV), suffered reported serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by Boardman Fire, Irrigon Fire, Morrow County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT. 

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

Contact Info:
Public Information Officer 
Oregon State Police 
Media Email: OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov 
www.oregon.gov/OSP

Clackamas County, Ore. 21 July 24- On Sunday, July 21, 2024, at 1:45 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Hwy-26, near milepost 32, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Volkswagen Tiguan, operated by a female juvenile, entered the eastbound lanes for unknown reasons and struck an eastbound BMW 540, operated by Matthew Dorsett (32) of Redmond (WA), head on. The BMW spun into the westbound lanes and was struck by a westbound Tesla T3, operated by Renee Ann Dejarnatt (40) of Portland.

The operator of the BMW (M. Dorsett) and passenger, Claire Elise Kidd Dorsett (31) of Redmond (WA), were declared deceased at the scene. 

The operator of the Volkswagen (female juvenile) suffered reported minor injures and was transported to a local medical center.

The operator of the Tesla (Dejarnatt) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to a local medical center.

The highway was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation and no further information is available for release at this time.

OSP was assisted by Hoodland Fire and the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office.

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

PF&R responds to greater alarm fire on Ross Island

On Saturday afternoon, Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a reported large vegetation fire on Ross Island. This fire grew in intensity and size where a 3^rd alarm fire response was requested to be certain there was significant resources available to address the fire. Crews worked until nightfall and then returned the following day after daybreak to finish the extinguishment process. There was a member from PF&R that was sent home due to heat exhaustion after an on scene medical evaluation. This member has since been medically evaluated again and has recovered and will return to work as scheduled. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation.

The logistics of fighting a mixed fuel land fire on an island takes quite of bit of work and creativity. PF&R Marine Section was actively shuttling firefighters and equipment from Station 21 located just north of the Hawthorne Bridge to the scene of the fire. In addition to shuttling tools and crew members, the fireboats were our only pumping resource, pulling water from the river and pumping up to the crews on land to use in addressing the flames. The items burning on the island were a mixture of dry vegetation, debris and trash associated with Ross Island Sand and Gravel, along with some older outbuildings also associated with the same business. 

Once the crews were on the island and a water system was set up, PF&R crews worked a solid 6 hours until nightfall arrived. With the fire having been reduced significantly and nearly completely extinguished along with communication with Ross Island Sand and Gravel that none of their property had any business value, a decision was made to pull all crews off the island overnight and return the following day to address any remaining fire. The conditions of the terrain and lack of any natural light led to a safety decision to pull the crews and return the next day. PF&R worked an additional 2 hours yesterday to finish up the extinguishment process. The stations that responded are now locating, cleaning, and returning all tools used in this incident back to their respective rigs so they can be used again when responding to another wild land fire. We are early in the season and will continue to be pulling out our specific wild land fire suppression gear quite often over the next few months.

This was the second greater alarm land fire in a week where our marine program was heavily involved in the suppression efforts. The fireboats provided significant amounts of water in both these greater alarm fires and the rescue boats were used as shuttles for the Ross Island incident. Unlike the greater alarm fire at Radius Recycling, where the fireboats were pumping to an engine that could adjust the water pressure according to the down stream needs at the nozzle, the pump operator of the fireboat not only had to continuously monitor the water intake from the river, but also was required to adjust the water pressures so those on the end of the hand lines had the proper amount of water and water pressure to safely address the task at hand. The success of this effort is the result of many hours of planning and training on the part of all members within PF&R. Not only those line firefighters, but all involved in the design and maintenance of the vessels, those that plan the interactive training sessions of the land based and marine based programs, and those that creatively look at a tool and find additional benefits to put to use down the road.

The vessels within the Marine Fleet are essential tools that are instrumental in our operations many times throughout the year. The many generations of vessel are maintained at a high level of operation by the Portland Fire Logistics Section and the Emergency Vehicle Technicians on staff. In the case of the Radius Recycling fire, there were 3 generations of boat in operation. One of these vessels, The David Campbell, is nearly 100 years old and has seen her fair share of dock and marina fires, is still providing needed assistance when needed. Portland Fire used both the Rescue Boats, that are designed primarily for quick maneuvering to perform a river rescue, to shuttle crews and equipment to the island, and the newest generation of fireboat to pump the water to the crews. In both greater alarm fires, our crews working the land side of these marine based fires would have had a significant extension of the time involved in addressing both these emergencies had the marine program not been there to provide increased water availability and other required tasks. Without the continued efforts of those firefighters within the Marine Program along with the schedule and emergency repairs performed by the EVT’s, the successes of our suppression in and around the waterways, like a large fire on Ross Island, would not be possible.

Portland Fire would like to thank the cooperation received from Ross Island Sand and Gravel along with the assistance of the dispatch center at BOEC while addressing this large extended operation on Ross Island. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                    

DATE: July 25, 2024

Dispute leads to gunfire, one hospitalized and two in custody

Salem, Ore. — At approximately 1:40 p.m. today, emergency personnel responded to the Arco AMPM at 3820 Portland RD NE on a call of shots fired. Witnesses reported that earlier in the day the suspect, identified as Rafael Lucas Jr., age 34 of Salem, was attempting to start a fight with several members of a construction crew working in the store parking lot. Lucas returned after several hours with a second suspect, Benjamin Constantino-De la Luz, age 61 of Salem. A verbal dispute ensued between one of the crew workers and Lucas. Lucas then pulled out a pistol and chased the victim who ran inside the store with Lucas and Constantino-De la Luz pursuing him.

Lucas fired the gun, shooting the construction worker in the head. Constantino-De la Luz used a shovel to twice strike another construction worker who was attempting to aid the shooting victim. Both Lucas and Constantino-De la Luz then fled the store.

The shooting victim, a 48-year-old Salem man, was taken to Salem Health with critical injuries and remains under medical care. The second victim, a 70-year-old Stayton resident, received minor injuries in the incident and was not transported to the hospital.

Officers located Lucas and Constantino-De la Luz blocks from the crime scene and were taken into custody without incident. Both were transported to the Marion County Jail, each lodged on the following charges: 

• Attempted murder, second-degree
• Assault, first-degree
• Assault, second-degree, two counts
• Unlawful use of a weapon

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A man is in jail after officers believe he stabbed another man in the parking lot of a business in the 10100 block of SW Washington Square Road.

On Tuesday, July 23rd at 4:56 PM, Tigard Police officers were dispatched to an assault with a weapon where a man had been stabbed with a broken bottle. Workers at a nearby pet hospital helped control the victim’s bleeding as they waited for emergency services. Upon arrival, officers learned that the suspect and victim did not know each other but that the suspect had made an offensive comment to the victim’s partner. After stabbing the victim with the broken bottle, the suspect took off.

Additional officers worked with witnesses and Trimet to get a description of the suspect, and Trimet confirmed a man matching the suspect’s description was currently on a bus headed out of Tigard. Officers caught up with the bus and safely arrested the man, identified as Timel Degraffe, age 30.

Mr. Degraffe was taken to the Washington County Jail and is facing charges of Assault II and Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and was cited on a Multnomah County misdemeanor warrant.

Thankfully, the victim’s injuries in this case were non-life threatening and he is receiving care at a nearby hospital.

We’d like to thank our partners at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Beaverton Police Department and Trimet for their help with this case, as well as the staff at the Hannah Pet Hospital who helped the injured victim while waiting for emergency services to arrive.

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Two men in possession of a gun and suspected fentanyl were arrested after attempting to steal a car during an armed carjacking incident.

On Tuesday, July 23rd at 12:40 PM, Tigard Police patrol officers responded to an attempted carjacking at a restaurant in the 6600 block of SW Cardinal Lane. Upon arrival, officers learned that two suspects pulled a gun on a man, identified as Aleksandar Atanansov, age 36, in an attempt to steal his car before taking off on foot near SW Sequoia Parkway.
 

Officers set up containment and utilized a K-9 track to search for the two suspects. One suspect was quickly located and arrested. He is Kyle Fletcher, age 23.

While officers searched for the outstanding suspect, a nearby restaurant in the 15200 block of SW Sequoia Parkway called police when they observed a patron displaying suspicious behavior. Officers detained the man, who matched the description of the second suspect. He was subsequently identified as Andrew Dibenedetto, age 38. Officers recovered a handgun, pills and powder during the investigation. Both the pills and powder are believed to be fentanyl, pending further testing.

Mr. Fletcher was charged with Robbery in the First Degree. Mr. Dibenedetto was interviewed and later released but charges are being referred to the Washington County District Attorney’s Office.

Mr. Atanansov was also arrested on two outstanding misdemeanor warrants out of Washington and Clackamas Counties.
Thankfully, no one was hurt during this incident.

This was a complicated case with many witnesses. We’d like to thank our partners at the Tualatin Police Department, Lake Oswego Police Department and the dispatchers at the Washington County Consolidated Communications Agency for their help in this case.

Vancouver, WA – July 25, 2024 – At 8:10 a.m. this morning, the Vancouver Fire Department responded to a report of a gunshot in the area of the 4300 block of Plomondon St. Four Vancouver Fire units, comprising a total of eight personnel, were dispatched to the scene.

Upon arrival, it was confirmed that two individuals had died on the scene.

The Vancouver Police Department is conducting an active investigation into this incident. For further information, please get in touch with Kim Kapp at 360-772-2364.

Kevin Hart, Engineer/PIO
Vancouver Fire Department
503-799-1640

Update 2
 

The investigation by the Vancouver Police Department Major Crimes Unit is continuing. This incident is being investigated as a homicide/suicide. The suspect is one of the individuals who was located deceased at the scene. 

The Clark County Medical Examiner‘s Office will release the identities of the deceased and cause and manner of death. 
 

Nothing further is being released at this time.

Update 1

Based on the investigation at this time there is no threat to the general public. 

Vancouver, Wash. – The Vancouver Police Department is investigating a shooting in the 4300 block of Plomondon Street that occurred at approximately 8:20 this morning. A caller reported seeing a male in the parking lot with a gun and then hearing gunshots. Arriving officers located two individuals deceased. 

Detectives from the Vancouver Police Department Major Crimes Unit are investigating. Additional information will be released as it becomes available. 

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On Thursday, July 25, 2024, at 03:49 a.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a vehicle on fire in the 20600 block of SW Rockport Lane in Beaverton to assist Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue. 

The caller dialed 911 to report a vehicle on fire in the driveway of a home and a person in all-black clothing running from the scene. The engulfed vehicle was close to the house and threatened to catch the residence on fire. The home was unoccupied at the time. 

Deputies searched the area, but the suspect was not located. 

If you have any information about this incident, Investigators would like to hear from you. Contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 and reference case 50-24-10551.

LONGVIEW, Wash. – Please consider becoming a hospice volunteer and help bring comfort to someone’s final days or hours of life. 

PeaceHealth’s Hospice Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting patients, their families and staff through a variety of services. Volunteer opportunities include things like front desk reception for the Richard Nau Hospice House, in-home respite care for our patients who live in their own home, No One Dies Alone (NODA), We Honor Veterans and others.

Upcoming hospice volunteer training dates are Tuesday, Sept. 10 and Tuesday, Sept. 24 from 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Training consists of two in-person meetings along with an online component. Volunteer qualifications include:

• 18+ years of age
• Pass a background check
• Attend required training

PeaceHealth welcomes anyone who wishes to be a part of the sacred work of providing care and comfort to hospice patients. 

To learn more or to register for hospice volunteer training, call or email PeaceHealth Home & Community Hospice at 360-636-8908 / SSW-HospiceVolunteerServices@peacehealth.org">RSSW-HospiceVolunteerServices@peacehealth.org. 

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

Bend Fire & Recuse was dispatched to a reported brush fire along the Deschutes River, just down stream of the 1^st Street Rapids. Witnesses saw smoke and flames at the bottom of the cliff behind the homes on NW Rivermist Dr. BPD officers arrived first and assisted locating the best access to the fire. The fire was quicky stopped and kept to an area of 30x50ft of brush on the flat areas near the river, luckily not spreading up the hill at all. 

USFS and ODF crews arrived to assist on the fire. Crews remained on scene for an hour ensuring the fire was completely extinguished. An old fallen tree was cut up to ensure it wasn’t smoldering before crews left. The fire is considered human caused but no specific cause was found. There were no signs of camping or encampments in the area. The trail through the fire area is heavily used by hikers and swimmers. A carelessly disposed of cigarette or other hot ashes can’t be ruled out as a cause. 

This fire highlighted a reminder to ensure you have good defensible space around your home, even if you live in the center of town. Piles of dry yard debris, thick brush and wood piles near decks were noted around homes near this fire. If an ember had come up the hill from this fire it could have easily ignited the dry vegetation and spread the fire to homes. More information about how to create that defensible space can be found at www.bendoregon.gov/own-your-zone.

Bend Fire & Recuse was dispatched to a reported brush fire along the Deschutes River, just down stream of the 1^st Street Rapids. Witnesses saw smoke and flames at the bottom of the cliff behind the homes on NW Rivermist Dr. BPD officers arrived first and assisted locating the best access to the fire. The fire was quicky stopped and kept to an area of 30x50ft of brush on the flat areas near the river, luckily not spreading up the hill at all. 

USFS and ODF crews arrived to assist on the fire. Crews remained on scene for an hour ensuring the fire was completely extinguished. An old fallen tree was cut up to ensure it wasn’t smoldering before crews left. The fire is considered human caused but no specific cause was found. There were no signs of camping or encampments in the area. The trail through the fire area is heavily used by hikers and swimmers. A carelessly disposed of cigarette or other hot ashes can’t be ruled out as a cause. 

This fire highlighted a reminder to ensure you have good defensible space around your home, even if you live in the center of town. Piles of dry yard debris, thick brush and wood piles near decks were noted around homes near this fire. If an ember had come up the hill from this fire it could have easily ignited the dry vegetation and spread the fire to homes. More information about how to create that defensible space can be found at www.bendoregon.gov/own-your-zone.

Bend Fire Department responded to a fire on Skyline Ranch Rd just west of Awbrey Glen Golf Course this afternoon just before 4pm. A neighbor was returning home and spotted a tree smoldering in the middle of a dry grass field and called 911. As the first arriving crew arrived the fire started to spread into the grass and be carried by the wind. Within minutes the fire had grown to ¼ acre and started spreading fast. The first arriving fire engines were assisted by a water tender from Shevlin Sand and Gravel to stop the fire but not before reaching nearly an acre in size. Strong, variable winds played a factor in the speed of growth of this fire. 

Crews were able to quickly stop the grass fire before it reached any trees or the small barn at the south end of the field. The tree was struck by lightning the nigh before and had been smoldering since then. The tree was not smoking earlier in the day but as the weather warmed up and the winds increased the fire started to spread. 

An earlier smoldering fire was extinguished around 230pm in a large open lot east of Caldera High School. The fire was noted by passerby's and called in. The smoldering area was extinguished before it could spread to any brush and trees near by, keeping it to less than 100 sq. feet, cause unknown. 

Pacific Power uses drones to monitor electrical equipment in rural Oregon and Southwest Washington

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018

Portland, Ore., (July 24, 2024) Pacific Power will use commercial drones designed for powerline inspections to take photos of Pacific Power’s assets to assist in mitigation of wildfire conditions and to improve system resilience. 

The drones will help Pacific Power conduct a series of inspections on various transmission, distribution and substation facilities using commercial drones designed for powerline inspections. 

Pacific Power began using the drones earlier this month in Southern Oregon and Northern California, and crews will also be using the equipment in additional locations.

Drones will be used to inspect facilities in rural areas north of Burns, Oregon, to the Idaho border, east of Roseburg, Oregon, and in the Lewis River area of Southern Washington beginning July 22 through August 16.

Drones capture high resolution photos and infrared images that help identify any potential defects or problems with equipment in need of repair. 

Pacific Power uses drones to help ensure our electrical system is safe and reliable for our customers.

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About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to more than 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, natural gas, coal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with over two million customers in six western states. For more information, visit PacificPower.net. 

The Willamette Water Supply System Commission Board meeting will be held Thursday August 1, 2024, at 12:00 PM.

Location: This meeting will not be held at a physical location. If you wish to attend remotely, please contact annette.rehms@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957 for dial-in information by 9:00am on August 1. 

If you wish to address the WWSS Board, please contact annette.rehms@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957 to request the Public Comment Form and return it 48 hours prior to the day of the meeting. 

The meeting is accessible to persons with disabilities and those who need qualified bilingual interpreters. Please contact annette.rehms@tvwd.org or call 971-222-5957 to request an interpreter for the hearing impaired, a bilingual interpreter, or for other accommodations should be made at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.

I-84 between Pendleton and Ontario will close for the next three to five nights to manage the Durkee Fire currently burning west of the interstate. 

The closures will begin at 7 p.m. with all lanes open again by 5 a.m. the following day. If other highways need to be closed in the area, they will be closed during the same time.

A full closure will allow fire crews to safely conduct large-scale fuel reduction burnouts.

Travelers are encouraged to delay their trip during these closures until roads are safe. If you must travel, consult Tripcheck.com and check conditions for your route. Plan an alternate route by staying on main highways. Do not follow GPS directions or detour on county or forest roads as these are not suitable for interstate traffic and may have ongoing fire activity.

Springfield, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management is announcing a proposal to remove Hult Dam in the interest of public safety. After years of analysis, public input, and planning, BLM officials selected removal of the dam as its preferred alternative in the final environmental impact statement released today, determining that the most responsible and safest way forward is to decommission and remove the dam.

“Community input has been crucial in helping us reimagine the area,” said Dennis Teitzel, BLM Northwest Oregon District Manager. “Decommissioning the dam allows us to address public safety concerns while continuing to offer outdoor recreation in the area.”

Despite ongoing maintenance efforts to protect public safety, the dam has received multiple cautionary ratings in recent decades. If no action is taken, assessments indicate that the existing dam would likely fail in the coming years. Dam failure could result in potential damage to critical infrastructure downstream, as well as potential loss of life. BLM’s proposed alternative includes removing the dam and reestablishing a natural stream channel, restoring riparian and wetland areas, and improving recreational facilities in the area, including construction of a new day-use area.

The Hult Dam, located in the Lake Creek watershed near Horton, was built in the 1930s or 1940s to create a log-holding pond for the Hult Lumber Company. Today, the BLM manages the area for recreational and historical purposes, which will continue under the proposed plan.

To learn more about the project, visit the project webpage: https://www.blm.gov/programs/planning-and-nepa/plans-in-development/oregon-washington/hult-dam

To view planning documents and learn more about the EIS process, visit the ePlanning site: https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/99598/510

To receive quarterly updates on the project, email BLM_OR_NO_SIU_Hult_Dam_EIS@blm.gov.

-BLM- 

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

Salem, OR. – Starting July 23, campfires will be prohibited on all Bureau of Land Management public lands throughout the Northwest Oregon District. BLM leaders encourage all visitors to be aware of active restrictions and closures as hotter, drier weather sets in around the Pacific Northwest.

In addition to fires and campfires, the stronger restrictions also prohibit smoking in vegetated areas; using vehicles in unmanaged vegetated areas; operating a chainsaw; welding, cutting or grinding; or using an internal combustion engine without a spark arrestor. These prohibitions will stay in effect until rescinded.

These level II fire restrictions help reduce the risk of human-caused fires. They build on the BLM’s statewide fire restrictions prohibiting fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition (core or jacket), tracer or incendiary devices, and sky lanterns, which went effect May 24.

Those who violate the prohibition may be fined up to $100,000 and/or imprisoned for up to 12 months. In addition, those found responsible for starting wildland fires on federal lands can be billed for the cost of fire suppression.

For the complete order and more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire.

To learn more about fire careers with BLM Oregon-Washington, please see https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire/state-info/oregon-washington/careers.

-BLM-

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

Dorena, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management Northwest Oregon District has temporarily closed BLM-managed public lands because of multiple fires in the area southeast of Cottage Grove, within the Sharps Creek and Clark Creek areas. The closure is for public and firefighter safety, and to allow fire suppression crews to continue to safely respond to the incident. 

The closure order closes the Sharps Creek Campground and encompasses BLM-managed public lands southeast of the town of Dorena, surrounding Sharps Creek Road (County Road 2460 / BLM Road No. 23-1-12) and Clark Creek Road (BLM Road No. 23-1-13). This includes BLM lands in Township 22S, Range 1W, and Township 23S, Range 1W, Sections 1-3, 11-14, 22-24, 26-27, 33-34. The closure also includes Sharps Creek Road and Clark Creek Road. Members of the public may not enter closed areas, and all uses—including hiking, mining, hunting and dispersed camping—are prohibited. Sharps Creek Road and Clark Creek Road remain open to residents within the closure area. For additional information and the closure map, visit https://www.blm.gov/orwafire. 

As it becomes safe to do so, firefighters will begin to assess the closure and their impacts in alignment with sound risk management practices. 

BLM Northwest Oregon District has additional fire closures and fire restriction information available on BLM.GOV.  

Please call 911 to report any signs of new fires. 

-BLM- 

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

CRIMINAL JUSTICE MORAL FITNESS

WORKGROUP MEETING

SCHEDULED

Notice of Scheduled Meeting

The DPSST Criminal Justice Moral Fitness Workgroup will meet at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, in the Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Jennifer Howald at 503-551-3258 or .howald@dpsst.oregon.gov">jennifer.howald@dpsst.oregon.gov.

The meeting will be recorded and posted on the DPSST YouTube page after the meeting: https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST

Agenda Items 

1.   Introductions

2.   Policy Committee Case Review Processes

      Carried over from May 6, 2024, and June 5, 2024

3.   Applicant Review Committee and Pre-employment Standards

      Carried over from June 5, 2024

4.   Follow-up on Pending Action Items or Discussions from Past Meetings

      On-going agenda item

5.   Next Workgroup Meeting: TBD

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law. This meeting will be digitally recorded and posted on the DPSST YouTube page after the meeting. The meeting will also be recorded in the form of written minutes. Discussion of issues will only be conducted by workgroup members. Please be mindful of comments and side conversations.

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation’s (DFR) Drug Price Transparency Program is seeking the public’s input on high prescription drug prices. Consumers are encouraged to report prescription drug price increases on DFR’s website, dfr.oregon.gov/rxdrugprices.

If anyone needs help completing this form, or has questions, they can call the message line at 833-210-4560 (toll-free) and leave a message with the best time to call back. Individuals can also reach DFR by email at x.prices@dcbs.oregon.gov">rx.prices@dcbs.oregon.gov.

Getting information directly from consumers will help DFR have more accurate information about how consumers are affected by high or increased costs of their prescription drugs. This will help the division inform the Oregon Legislature in DFR’s annual report, which is expected to come out in December. Consumers can also view the data on the DFR website and provide stories for the annual hearing and report.

“We recognize that prescription drug costs are increasing and the impact this has on Oregonians on a daily basis,” DFR Administrator TK Keen said. “Our hope is to get input from the public so we can inform policymakers and researchers alike on prescription drug costs.”

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Salem – With wildfires raging across the state, the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) wants to make sure people are taken care of in the event of a catastrophe and warned of those who may want to take advantage of a vulnerable situation.

One of those ways is through an assignment of benefits (AOB) agreement, which is a contract between a homeowner and a third party that transfers the insurance claim rights or benefits in an insurance policy to the third party. This allows the third party, which is typically a contractor, plumber, roofer, or other construction professional, to file the claim, make decisions about home repairs, and collect insurance payments without involving the homeowner. 

DFR stresses that you are not required to enter an AOB with a third party to have repairs done – you can file a claim directly to your insurance company.

An AOB can be a useful tool for getting repairs done, as it allows the repair company to deal directly with an insurance company when negotiating repairs. It also allows the insurer to pay the repair company directly. However, an AOB is a legal contract, so policyholders need to understand the rights they are signing away and make sure the repair company is trustworthy. Here are some reminders: 

• With an AOB, the third party, like a roofing company or plumber, may file your claim, make repair decisions, and collect insurance payments without your involvement. They can also sue your insurer, and you can lose your right to mediation. 
• Once you have signed an AOB, your insurer only communicates with the third party.
• It is possible the third party may demand a higher claim payment than the insurer offers and then sue the insurer when it denies the claim.

“It is important for homeowners to know their rights and understand what they are agreeing to with an assignment of benefits,” said Andrew R. Stolfi, Oregon insurance commissioner and director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. “Importantly, you are signing away your right to control many decisions related to the repair of your home. While this arrangement can be a good thing with the right contractor, it can result in a headache if it ends up in the wrong hands.”

DFR reminds homeowners to be diligent and alert for fraud. Home repair fraud is common after a natural disaster, and some contractors may prey on victims in hopes of making a quick buck. It is usually a good idea to do business with local businesses or trusted companies. Check references and talk to your friends and family. You should also always confirm that a contractor is licensed in the state of Oregon. Your insurance company may also have recommendations, and you should get more than one bid for your repairs. 

Anyone who has questions or feels they may have been taken advantage of can always contact one of our consumer advocates at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or through email at .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. 

For more information about AOB agreements, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners offers additional resources and information. DFR also has resources on understanding homeowners insurance and other insurance tips, including a brochure designed to help homeowners avoid disaster scams.

###

About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Salem, Ore.—July 25, 2024 — If you are travelling by car this summer, especially if you are headed to Eastern Oregon, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) are encouraging you to be fire safe and prepared.

The 2024 wildfire season is shaping up to be one for the record books. With Govenor Tina Kotek invoking the Emergency Conflagration Act for Durkee and Battle Mountain Complex Fires, there are now three large complex fires burning through acres of land east of the Cascades. Fire officials and OEM are asking people to take every precaution possible to avoid adding to the problem.

While you are packing and preparing to take off and explore our state, it’s important to stay up to date on road closures with Tripcheck.com; connect with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) about campfire restrictions; and make sure you have emergency supplies in case you get stranded.

Here is a list of items to consider for a basic emergency car kit:

• Jumper cables
• Flares or reflective triangle
• Car cell phone charger
• Blanket
• Map
• Cat litter or sand for tire traction in ice
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help if the air is smokey or dusty
• Plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape to shelter in place if needed
• Wet wipes, garbage bags, toilet paper and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Printed maps of the local area in case you lose service
• Cell phone and a backup charger
• Cash or traveler's checks
• A fire extinguisher you know how to use

Finally, pack extra water and snakes in case you get stuck for a while.

In addition to packing an emergency kit, ODOT wants to remind travelers to use U.S. 20 to move east or west across central and eastern Oregon, and if you must travel, consult Tripcheck.com and check conditions for your route. It is also important to make sure your car is tuned up, has plenty of gas and the tires are in good condition.

Here are more tips to be a fire safe traveler:  

• When pulling off the road, stay on paved surfaces when possible.
• Avoid the side of the road where dry grass and other fuel can come in contact with your vehicle’s hot components and spark a fire.
• Don’t toss lit cigarettes, or any flammable materials, out your vehicle’s window.
• Extinguish all smoking materials completely and never in dry grass.
• Secure chains and make sure they aren’t dragging. That can cause sparks.

Maintain your car and carry the right equipment  

• Maintain proper tire pressure as driving on rims will throw off sparks.
• Prevent vehicle fires by having your vehicle serviced regularly by a professionally trained mechanic.
• Heat and electrical sparks that come into contact with leaking flammable car fluids can easily start a car fire.

There are tips on how to prevent wildfires on the Oregon Department of Forestry’s website.

You can find more tips on how to prepare your car for road trips at Ready,gov/car or check out Be 2 Weeks Ready to help build your self-reliance and community preparedness.  

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_____________________________________________________________________________

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. 

Salem, Ore.—July 25, 2024 — If you are traveling by car this summer, especially if you are headed to Eastern Oregon, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) are encouraging you to be fire safe and prepared.

The 2024 wildfire season is shaping up to be one for the record books. With Govenor Tina Kotek invoking the Emergency Conflagration Act for Durkee and Battle Mountain Complex Fires, there are now three large complex fires burning through acres of land east of the Cascades. Fire officials and OEM are asking people to take every precaution possible to avoid adding to the problem.

While you are packing and preparing to take off and explore our state, it’s important to stay up to date on road closures with Tripcheck.com; connect with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) about campfire restrictions; and make sure you have emergency supplies in case you get stranded.

Here is a list of items to consider for a basic emergency car kit:

• Jumper cables
• Flares or reflective triangle
• Car cell phone charger
• Blanket
• Map
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help if the air is smokey or dusty
• Plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape to shelter in place if needed
• Wet wipes, garbage bags, toilet paper and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Printed maps of the local area in case you lose service
• Cell phone and a backup charger
• Cash
• A fire extinguisher you know how to use

Finally, pack extra water and snacks in case you get stuck for a while.

In addition to packing an emergency kit, ODOT wants to remind travelers to check Tripcheck.com and check conditions for your route. It is also important to make sure your car is tuned up, has plenty of gas and the tires are in good condition.

Here are more tips to be a fire safe traveler:  

• When pulling off the road, stay on paved surfaces when possible.
• Avoid the side of the road where dry grass and other fuel can come in contact with your vehicle’s hot components and spark a fire.
• Don’t toss lit cigarettes, or any flammable materials, out your vehicle’s window.
• Extinguish all smoking materials completely and never in dry grass.
• Secure chains and make sure they aren’t dragging. That can cause sparks.

Maintain your car and carry the right equipment  

• Maintain proper tire pressure as driving on rims will throw off sparks.
• Prevent vehicle fires by having your vehicle serviced regularly by a professionally trained mechanic.
• Heat and electrical sparks that come into contact with leaking flammable car fluids can easily start a car fire.

There are tips on how to prevent wildfires on the Oregon Department of Forestry’s website.

You can find more tips on how to prepare your car for road trips at Ready,gov/car or check out Be 2 Weeks Ready to help build your self-reliance and community preparedness.  

###

_____________________________________________________________________________

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. 

Salem, Ore.—The heat of summer makes shade-covered state forest an appealing destination for many.

“July and August see the most visitors to our state forests,” said Joe Offer, Oregon Department of Forestry’s Recreation Program Manager. “With that increase of visitors is also an increase in wildfire danger since 70 percent of wildfires are human caused.”

ODF posts fire danger levels and public use restrictions on information boards in recreation areas and on most access roads to state forests. There are four levels: Low, Moderate, High and Extreme, with corresponding restrictions for certain activities. As the forests dry out and the humidity levels decrease, the fire danger levels typically increase—and so do the restrictions to help prevent fires.

“The vast majority of our visitors want to do the right thing,” said Offer. “The largest obstacle is a general lack of awareness about what is allowed or not allowed at each level, and what fire prevention items they should have with them while recreating on state forest land.”

For example, as levels reach Moderate and High, recreational fires are only allowed at designated sites within metal fire rings. Additionally, during the entire designated fire season, anyone traveling on state forestlands is also required to have a shovel and a gallon of water or a 2.5-pound ABC fire extinguisher in their vehicle at all times.

“Few people are aware of the requirements for carrying a shovel and water or fire extinguisher while on ODF managed forestland. However, just having that equipment with you could mean the difference of saving the forest from a fire or not,” said Offer. “Similarly, anyone riding an off-highway vehicle (OHV) during fire season is required to have a fire extinguisher with them at all times for the same reasoning.”

Beyond the requirement of carrying a fire extinguisher, all OHVs must have exhaust guards and spark arrestors. However, even those design features don’t make them completely fire safe. Due to the possibility of starting a fire during the driest and most dangerous fire conditions, ODF mandates that offroad trail riding is prohibited from 1-8 p.m. when High fire danger levels are met, while all offroad riding is fully prohibited in Extreme fire danger.

Year round there is no smoking, launching of sky lanterns, or use of exploding targets, trace ammunition, or fireworks on any state forestland.

All ODF district and local offices post fire danger levels and can answer questions on restrictions.

“Another quick and easy way to see the fire danger levels is to visit our fire danger levels website,” said Offer. The link: Oregon Department of Forestry Public Fire Restrictions Tip: Click on the left-hand column hypertext titled: “ODF Statewide Fire Danager” and it brings up a layer with a color-coded map for the four levels.

If state forest visitors see others not following the rules they can report it to any ODF staff member.

“Our main goal is awareness and education about the restrictions to protect lives and the forest,” said Offer. “And we ask that all visitors to the forest do their part to help educate others on rules and restrictions as well.”

Lastly, if anyone sees a wildfire while visiting the forest they should call 911 immediately and give the best location information possible so firefighters can find it and put it out quickly.

Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) finalized its Annual Operations Plans (AOP) that describe the variety of projects planned for state forests for the 2025 fiscal year.  These include planned timber sales for each district; recreation projects, such as the installation of a bridge; or other types of forest projects, such as stream enhancement or restoration projects. ODF received 1,061 written comments during the 45-public comment period that was open from April 3-May 17.

“We thank an engaged public for robust feedback representing many diverse perspectives,” said Nick Palazzotto, ODF’s State Forests Division Deputy Chief.  “It is challenging to balance the department’s legal obligation to manage state forests for social, economic and environmental outcomes—a concept referred to as Greatest Permanent Value.”

State forests provide outdoor recreation, education and interpretation opportunities; sustainable harvest volumes that produce jobs and revenue that funds vital services in rural counties; clean water; and critical fish and wildlife habitats. The majority of timber sales are on Board of Forestry lands, and approximately two thirds of the resulting revenue is split with the counties, who share it further with special districts. Together, the counties and special districts utilize this revenue to support local schools and provide other essential community services. ODF retains one third of the revenue to fund management of state forests. A small portion of the timber sales are located on Common School Forest Lands and generate revenue for the Common School Fund.

Some comments resulted in edits to specific timber sales while others are addressed in a high-level summary of the comments received highlighting the major themes, topics, and agency responses. 

“We read and consider every comment,” said Palazzotto.  “However, we do not respond to each one individually. Instead, we develop a summary document with broad categories that capture the comments and provides our responses to the public commentary.”

The summary document is broken down into the following sections: 

• Recreation
• Climate Change and Carbon
• Timber Harvest
• Aquatic, Wildlife, and Plant
• Roads, Slopes and Water Quality
• Specific Sales
• Process and Document Improvement
• Out of Scope

The FY25 Annual Operations Summary Documents are available for  ODF’s  Astoria, Forest Grove, Klamath-Lake, North Cascade, Tillamook, West Oregon and Western Lane districts.  These are located on the same webpage as the summary of comments and agency response document.

“Since we manage the forests for the Greatest Permanent Value, we have to consider how our decisions impact Oregonians overall, not just a single commenter,” said Palazzotto. “So even though we made changes to some sales, not everyone will be satisfied with those changes.  We recognize that and seek to be as transparent as possible in our decisions. We had more than a thousand comments this year, so we know Oregonians care about their forests.  Even with this already high interest ODF will strive to continue to improve communications with landowners, neighbors and concerned citizens to raise awareness of our AOP process and how they can connect with us to have their concerns heard.”

Correction/Clarification: Media can post/publish/share the daily ODF situation reports. The ask to not share or publish was meant to be about the media alert itself. We apologize for the confusion. 

With the Regional Preparedness Level and ODF Fire Activity Level at 5, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) will begin to send out Daily Situation Reports via GovDelivery in the afternoon. The reports will include information on ODF incident management teams, what fires the agency is prioritizing, district highlights, and other pertinent information. 

These reports will be published daily on ODFfire.com and on ODF’s Statewide Facebook page if you would like to guide people to it.  The public can also sign up through GovDelivery to receive these reports. 

If you have follow-up or clarifying questions, please reach out to jessica.neujahr@odf.oregon.gov.  

Details: Click to subscribe through GovDelivery to receive these reports daily. 

THE DALLES, Ore. – The Great Basin Complex Incident Management Team 6, led by Incident Commander Mack McFarland, assumed command of the Microwave Tower Fire at 6:00 a.m. this morning, Wednesday, July 24, 2024. The Complex Incident Management Team brings additional resources and management capabilities to implement a full suppression strategy for the Microwave Tower Fire. 

The fire has seen moderate activity with intermittent single tree torching, some flanking and smoldering creating a moderate amount of smoke. The fire also saw growth backing down the north slope. With the expected increased winds today, crews are ready to address increased fire behavior. There is a potential for increased smoke in the area.

More accurate mapping has sized the fire at 704 acres and 0% containment. The fire is located 5 miles west, southwest of Mosier, OR. Currently there are approximately 72 personnel assigned to the fire. They are building a combination of dozer and hand line on the southern edge to contain the fire. Additionally, crews are working to improve roads, trails and previously constructed contingency lines around the remainder of the fire.

The Microwave Tower Fire was first detected on July 22, 2024 and the cause is currently under investigation.

Evacuations

The Mosier Senior Center at 500 E. 2^nd Ave., is being used as a cooling center for the public where they can also charge their devices. For up-to-date information on evacuations in the area, please visit https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff.

The Dalles, Ore. – Moderate fire behavior allowed for further progress on the Microwave Tower Fire today as crews worked to secure more of the fire’s east end with hand line, dozer line, and water drops from helicopters and other air resources. The fire continued to back down on a north facing ridge along I-84 just west of Mosier and will likely do so through tomorrow. Smoke can be observed along the highway.

More accurate mapping has sized the fire at 704 acres. Tonight, crews will work towards hooking in line with hand crews and dozers along the eastern and southern edges of the fire footprint while structural firefighters will continue to assess and further secure homes.

Tomorrow, the Type 1 Great Basin Team 6 will assume command at 6 a.m. The incident command post will be at the Hood River High School. Public information officers with the team will receive inquiries about both the nearby Whiskey Creek and Microwave Tower fires. 

Evacuation levels remain in place. There is an estimate of 100 homes that are under Level 3 evacuations and 500 residences threatened in the Mosier area. The gymnasium at the Hood River Middle School is a designated Red Cross Shelter for those evacuated.

LEVEL 3 - GO NOW! Evacuate immediately from Hwy 30 south the Proctor Rd., east to Huskey Rd and the border of the City of Mosier and west to the Hood River County line.

LEVEL 2 - GET SET from the City of Mosier and Huskey Rd., south to Wilson Rd., and east to Mosier Creek Rd.

LEVEL 1 - GET READY from Mosier Creek Rd., east to Dry Creek Rd., north to the City of Mosier border and south to Osborn Cutoff Rd.

For the most up-to-date evacuation information, please visit the Wasco County Sheriff’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff/

THE DALLES, Ore. – Crews worked through the night on the Microwave Tower fire near Mosier, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures and higher humidity. Much of the progress was along the southern portion of the fire, while the northern portion continues to present challenges due to limited access and steep slopes. Air resources played a critical role in helping slow the fire’s spread in difficult terrain.

The fire is currently being mapped, but early indications show that it is roughly 591 acres. Currently, the fire is backing down north facing slopes just west of Mosier, and smoke is visible from I-84.

Today, winds are predicted to be calmer than yesterday, allowing firefighters a good opportunity to continue the progress from last night. The Type 1 Great Basin National Team currently managing the Whiskey Creek Fire in Hood River County will assume command from Oregon Department of Forestry Central Oregon District tomorrow morning at 6 a.m. The incident command post will be at the Hood River High School.

Evacuation levels have not changed since the last Wasco County Sheriff’s update at 10 p.m. yesterday. The gymnasium at the Hood River Middle School is a designated Red Cross Shelter for those evacuating.

LEVEL 3 - GO NOW! Evacuate immediately from Hwy 30 south the Proctor Rd., east to Huskey Rd and the border of the City of Mosier and west to the Hood River County line.

LEVEL 2 - GET SET from the City of Mosier and Huskey Rd., south to Wilson Rd., and east to Mosier Creek Rd.

LEVEL 1 - GET READY from Mosier Creek Rd., east to Dry Creek Rd., north to the City of Mosier border and south to Osborn Cutoff Rd.

For the most up-to-date evacuation information, please visit the Wasco County Sheriff’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff/

THE DALLES, Ore. – Residents west of the Columbia Gorge town of Mosier are being told to evacuate as the fast-moving Microwave Tower Fire burns eastward, driven by strong westerly winds of 30 to 35 miles per hour. 

LEVEL 3 - GO NOW! Evacuate immediately from Hwy 30 south the Proctor Rd., east to Huskey Rd and the border of the City of Mosier and west to the Hood River County line.

LEVEL 2 - GET SET to evacuate from the city of Mosier and from Huskey Rd. east to Mosier Creek Rd., and south to Jasper Lane.

A Red Cross shelter for evacuees has been set up at the Hood River Middle School, 1602 May Street, Hood River, OR 97031

Firefighters from ODF’s Unit Office in The Dalles are being aided by Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area U.S. Forest Service and local fire departments in battling the blaze that started west of Rattler Ridge just west of Mosier in the Columbia Gorge. A very large airtanker has been ordered to help on the fire, which was reported at 4 p.m. this afternoon. A task force of fire engines and a dozer from the Larch Creek Fire in south Wasco County are being diverted to assist on the fire. The I-84 freeway currently remains open. 

The fire is burning in grass and timber, pushed eastwards by strong westerly winds of 30 to 35 miles per hour. Earlier this afternoon it was estimated at 100 to 150 acres. Cause is not known at this time. 

Evacuation levels may change quickly given the spread rate of the fire, with new areas being moved into evacuation status. For the most up-to-date evacuation information, please visit the Wasco County Sheriff’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff/

                                                              # # #

Salem, Ore – Starting this past Wednesday, July 17, and into Sunday, July 21, Oregon experienced two separate lightning events that resulted in over 2,000 strikes across the state, which primarily affected Southern, Central and Eastern Oregon. With multiple crews engaged in initial attack on new fire starts and all of Oregon’s available incident management teams on assignment, now is the time for Oregonians to be prepared for wildfires and help prevent future ignitions. 

Oregonians are urged to actively practice wildfire prevention, prepare their home and a go-bag for evacuation and know where to sign up for alerts. 

How can people help prevent wildfires?

The Oregon Department of Forestry is urging the public to actively practice wildfire prevention as the state works to control over 20 large fires. Additional human-caused fires on the landscape will draw the firefighting efforts away from the lightning-caused fires and put extra strain on ground and aviation resources, which are already spread thin. YOU can help prevent wildfires by:

• Checking and following your local fire regulations. The majority of the state is either in high or extreme fire danger right now, meaning even the smallest of sparks could start the next large wildfire.
• Remember that debris burning is prohibited statewide.
  • Return to check on your burn site if you burned earlier in the year.
• Make sure your car has been recently serviced to avoid faulty parts throwing sparks.
• Don't drag tow chains.
• Avoid parking vehicles on tall, dry grass.
• Recreate responsibly. Where campfires are allowed, make sure your campfire is DEAD OUT before leaving it by drowning it with water, stirring it with a shovel and repeating that process until it is cold to the touch. If there is heat coming off it, there are still embers that could reignite.

How can I prepare my home to be resilient against fire?

The Oregon State Fire Marshal can help you create defensible space. Defensible space is the area around your home and property that’s maintained to prevent wildfire from spreading. Creating and maintaining defensible space is the best protection you can give your home against wildfire. 

A few ideas to protect the first five feet around your home: 

• Remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris from the roof, gutters, and on top of and underneath decks.
• Trim tall plants and bushes growing directly under eaves and make sure trees and plants have adequate space from your home and other vegetation.
• Remove dead and combustible plants and mulch; replace it with decorative rock or gravel.
• Cover exterior attic vents, soffit vents, and areas below decks and patios with 1/8" metal wire mesh.

Be cautious with using power tools and other equipment that can throw sparks and don’t operate machinery in the heat of the day. Summer is a great time to plan defensible space projects to start working on in the fall when wildfire season is over.

How can I prepare myself in case I need to evacuate? 

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) urges everyone to prepare for wildfires and other emergencies by knowing evacuation levels, staying informed, having a plan, and having a go-kit ready. 

Evacuation Levels

• Oregon follows a three-level evacuation notification system, each structured around safety threat level.
• Oregonians should become familiar with "Be Ready, Be Set, Go!" evacuation levels to make informed decisions when receiving evacuation notices.
• OEM urges people to evacuate whenever they feel unsafe, conditions can change rapidly; individuals should always make the best decision for their safety.
• Following an evacuation, people should not return to the area until public safety officials state it is safe.

Stay Informed

• Stay informed sign up to receive evacuation at, ORAlert.gov remember to update information if need be.
• Find the websites for your county emergency management, sheriff's office, or tribal police and follow them on social media.
• Check your phone settingsto ensure wireless emergency alerts are turned on. 

Have a Plan

• Do you know what to do during an evacuation? This evacuation checklist explains what to do before, during, and after an evacuation.
• Establish a communication plan with a list of important contacts and a safe place for loved ones to meet if they are separated during an emergency. 
• Identify multiple evacuation routes from home, work, or school and plan for transportation needs. 
• People with disabilities should consider individual circumstances and specific needs when planning for evacuation, such as special equipment, transportation, and service animals.
• Have an evacuation plan for pets, make a pet evacuation kit in a tote bag or pet crate, and plan for transportation and sheltering of large animals such as horses and other livestock.

Make a Go-Kit

• Assemble an emergency kit of essential supplies that can be grabbed quickly.
• Pack an easy-to-carry backpack or bag for each household member with health and safety items such as food, water, medication, flashlights, phone chargers, clothing, and important documents. Visit American Red Cross to learn more.

Find more information and resources at Wildfire.Oregon.gov.

Recreate Responsibly

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) encourages visitors to know before they go when it comes to campfire restrictions. Due to the continued low humidity and risk of wildfires, OPRD banned campfires at all Oregon State Parks east of the Cascades as well as at parks in high-risk areas around the state until conditions improve. Most Oregon State Parks currently have a campfire ban. Please check park webpages or the wildfire feature story at stateparks.oregon.gov/ before your next visit. Thank you for helping to reduce the risk of wildfires.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) seeks volunteers to join an advisory committee to help develop a new option for in-home services. This option will be called Agency with Choice and will launch in 2026.

Through Agency with Choice, older adults and people with disabilities who receive Medicaid-funded long-term services and supports may choose to work with a new type of agency to hire a direct-care worker. This new type of agency will help individuals hire an in-home care provider, complete all the required paperwork, train the provider and pay them. 

Planning for the 2026 launch of Agency with Choice is underway. To support planning efforts, the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities is seeking volunteers to join the Consumer Advisory Committee on Agency with Choice to help guide the creation of the program. This committee will include individuals who receive Medicaid in-home services and will meet virtually every month.

ODHS is looking for volunteers to serve on the committee who:

• Currently receive Medicaid in-home services from a homecare worker, personal care attendant, or in-home care agency or have received these services in the past;
• Are older adults or adults with a physical disability or behavioral health need;
• Understand the value and potential benefits of in-home services;
• Have reliable internet or phone service for virtual meetings (no travel necessary);
• Will actively participate in discussions and provide feedback; and
• Will be able to consider the needs of all people who receive in-home help.

As many as 15 people will be selected for the committee to represent all parts of the state. People who are interested in joining may apply online at https://forms.office.com/g/JjW1hd5viY.

Applications must be submitted by August 5, 2024, to be considered for membership in the committee. For help completing the application or to ask a question, please send an email to: AWC.Info@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

How to get more information

If you want to learn more about Agency with Choice, please see the “initiatives and outreach” section on our web page: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/agency/Pages/apd.aspx. Information will be added as it is available.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support in finding Anna Gabriella Villarreal. She is a 15-year-old child in foster care who was last seen in Ontario on June 30. She was found July 23. 

Sometimes when a child is missing they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

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

uly 26, 2024

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA warns of potential measles exposures in Marion County

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is recommending people who were recently in certain locations in Marion County to monitor themselves for symptoms of measles and talk to a health care provider if those symptoms arise.

People may have been exposed to the virus if they were in any of these locations during these times on Wednesday, July 17:

• Waremart (5450 River Road N., Keizer), between noon and 1:20 p.m.
• Walmart (3002 Stacy Allison Way, Woodburn), between 1:15 and 2:35 p.m.
• Safeway (1550 N. Pacific Hwy, Woodburn), between 2:40 and 3:05 p.m.

Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles can also linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication. In developed countries in recent years, one or two out of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal.

“Measles is the most contagious disease we know,” said Paul Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) Public Health Division. “If you have a rash, please don’t drop in on an emergency department or your doctor’s office. Call ahead so that the doctor can arrange to meet you where others won’t be exposed.”

Since mid-June, 15 cases of measles have been reported in Oregon, all among unvaccinated persons. Of the cases, 12 are confirmed and three are presumptive. Two people have been hospitalized. Other cases are suspected but not yet confirmed.

The measles outbreak is spread among three counties: Marion, with nine cases; Clackamas with five; and Multnomah with one. Nine of the cases are younger than 10, four are ages 10 to 19, and two are 20 or older.

Visit the homepage of OHA’s Acute and Communicable Disease Prevention Section for daily updates of measles outbreak data. 

Determining your risk of measles

Measles vaccination is highly effective, and most Oregonians have been vaccinated, usually as children. Anyone who has received a measles vaccination at any time in their life has a low risk of getting measles. Risk is much higher for anyone who has not received measles vaccination and who may have been exposed to the disease.

If you or your family was present in one of the stores during the identified time window, please consider the following steps:

• Check your immunity status. Individuals are considered immune to measles if any of the following apply:
  • Born before 1957
  • Diagnosed with measles in the past
  • A blood test confirms immunity
  • Received two doses of the measles vaccine
• Monitor for symptoms of measles for 21 days after exposure (until August 7). Symptoms include:
  • Fever
  • Rash
  • Cough
  • Red, watery eyes
• If you are unvaccinated, limit your exposure to others outside your immediate household.
• If you have received one dose of the MMR vaccine, limit your exposure in high-risk settings like healthcare facilities, schools and daycares.
• If you develop measles-like symptoms, contact your health care provider before going in for care.
• If you are not vaccinated but wish to be, contact your health care provider to schedule a vaccine appointment.

Marion County’s Public Health Clinic, located at 3160 Center Street NE in Salem, offers free vaccines to children (ages 0–18) who are uninsured, enrolled in Medicaid/Oregon Health Plan, or are American Indian/Alaskan Native.

To schedule an appointment or for more information, call 503-588-5342.

Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/diseasesconditions/diseasesaz/pages/measles.aspx

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July 25, 2024

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for McKay Reservoir July 25

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued July 3 for McKay Reservoir in Umatilla County.

Water monitoring has confirmed cyanotoxins levels in McKay Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for both people and dogs.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Be aware that only a fraction of waterbodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people and especially small children and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving behind the toxins released. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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July 25, 2024

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459, timothy.heider@oha.oregon.gov

OHA appoints Dr. Ahmed Farag as new dental director

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today announced the appointment of Dr. Ahmed Farag as its new dental director.

Dr. Farag has served in numerous leadership roles, most recently as executive medical director at Rochester Regional Health in western New York, an integrated health system with over 550 health care locations, nine hospitals and 16 federally qualified health centers.

Dr. Farag has a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Rochester’s Simon Business School and is pursuing a remote doctorate degree at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

He has also received an American Dental Association fellowship in diversity in leadership through the American College for Healthcare Executives.

Among other responsibilities, OHA’s dental director will provide expertise for OHA’s dental services program, including dental services offered through Medicaid as part of the Oregon Health Plan.

“Dr. Farag brings a wealth of national and international professional experience and an abiding commitment to providing high quality health services,” said OHA’s Deputy Medicaid Director Vivian Levy.

“We welcome his diverse expertise and look forward to working with him to promote health equity, assure patient well-being, and join Oregon clinicians in their commitment to improving oral health outcomes,” Levy said.

Dr. Farag will become a member of the Oregon Health Plan leadership team. He will assume his new role in Oregon Sept. 3.

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July 25, 2024

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Turner Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued July 18 for Turner Lake in Marion County.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Turner Lake are below recreational guideline values for both people and dogs.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Be aware that only a fraction of waterbodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people and especially small children and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving behind the toxins released. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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July 25, 2024

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA marks 100^th water treatment system installation milestone

OHA, partners continue efforts to protect families with high levels of nitrate in domestic well water

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and partner organizations have recorded more than 100 free water treatment systems installed in households in the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area, or LUBGWMA. As of June 30, OHA’s vendors had installed 111 systems and are working to install additional systems to help address high levels of nitrate in some domestic wells.  

The LUBGWMA spans northern Morrow County and northwestern Umatilla County and was designated by the state due to high nitrate in groundwater that supplies domestic wells.

Nitrate in well water is a potential health hazard, and nitrate levels above 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L) are considered dangerous for human consumption. Pregnant people and babies face the greatest risk. The state has offered free laboratory tests of well water to LUBGWMA residents since 2023.

Residents are encouraged to continue testing their domestic wells’ nitrate levels. OHA recently announced a retesting effort to ensure that households near the 10 mg/L limit are monitored.

Households with a nitrate test result above 10 mg/L are eligible for free water delivery. For households whose well water tests higher than 10 mg/L but below 25 mg/L, the state will also provide free installation and maintenance of one in-home reverse-osmosis system. OHA requires that systems be certified to reduce nitrate levels to safe for drinking. There are no kitchen-tap treatment systems certified to remove nitrate at levels above 25 mg/L.

State rules require treatment systems be installed by licensed plumbers.  OHA’s vendors go beyond installing treatment systems and provide ongoing maintenance and replacement of filters. Vendors also collect a water sample for laboratory analysis of the water from the tap after installation, to guarantee that the water is safe for consumption.

“We are grateful to the plumbers who have helped us reach this milestone and we continue to look for ways to install these systems at a faster pace,” said Gabriela Goldfarb, OHA Environmental Public Health section manager. “We appreciate the patience of residents who are waiting to get their treatment system and we know the wait is not easy.”

Questions? Contact the OHA Domestic Well Safety Program at Domestic.Wells@odhsoha.oregon.gov or call 541-952-9254 and visit testmywell.oregon.gov to learn about free safe water services for residents of northern Morrow County and northwestern Umatilla County.

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July 24, 2024

Media contacts:

Erica Heartquist, Oregon Health Authority, ica.J.Heartquist@oha.oregon.gov">Erica.J.Heartquist@oha.oregon.gov,  503-871-8843

Jake Sunderland, Oregon Department of Human Services, land@odhs.oregon.gov">Jake.Sunderland@odhs.oregon.gov, 503-877-0170

Study shows Oregon Medicaid renewal rate highest in nation

SALEM, Ore. —Oregon has the highest rate in the nation for Medicaid renewals since the lifting of the COVID-related continuous enrollment requirement in March 2023, according to a Georgetown study.

With 92 percent of the state’s nearly 1.5 million renewals complete, more than four out of five Oregonians are keeping their Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or other Medicaid benefits.

(Source: Georgetown University McCourt School of Public Policy study published July 14, 2024)

Six reasons Oregon is doing well with Medicaid renewals

OHP Bridge

OHP Bridge, a new category of OHP with higher income limits, launched July 1. Since the unwinding of the pandemic emergency began, people likely to be eligible for OHP Bridge kept their OHP. To date, 22,784 people have moved to OHP Bridge.

Sequencing

Oregon intentionally scheduled renewals for people who were more likely to keep benefits and needed minimal support to complete the process upfront. State employees put certain renewals such as likely OHP Bridge members later in the schedule and spread more complex renewals throughout the process to ensure support was consistently available. 

Longer timelines

Oregon gave people longer to respond before closing benefits than any other state in the nation. In Oregon, people have up to 90 days to respond and 60 days’ advance notice of any closure. People who did not respond can also reopen their case up to 90 days after closing. 

Outreach

Oregon has a robust network of community partners across the state, and tools like earned media and paid advertising were used to spread awareness of the renewal process. 

Maximizing automated renewals

When members’ eligibility information can be verified using federal data matching sources without needing the member to respond, they can be automatically renewed. This minimizes the chances for closures due to nonresponse, reduces the paperwork burden on members and preserves staff capacity to help the remaining people.  To date, Oregon’s monthly news release on renewals has used KFF data, which continues to show Oregon in third place. The Georgetown ranking shows Oregon among the top states reducing paperwork via the automated renewal process.

Rules protecting coverage between renewals

Oregon is unique in giving most adults a two-year continuous eligibility period where they will keep their medical benefits until their next renewal, even if something like income changes would no longer qualify them for benefits. Oregon also offers young children benefits until their sixth birthday. These rules do not directly affect renewal rate but prevent “churn” on and off benefits between renewals.

July OHP renewal data

As of July 19, 1,347,208 people have completed the renewal process. This represents around 92.7 percent of all OHP and Medicaid members.

• 1,114,627 people (82.7 percent) were renewed and kept their benefits.
• 221,260 people (16.4 percent) were found ineligible.
• 11,321 people (0.8 percent) had a reduction in their benefits. Most of these members lost full OHP but were able to continue Medicare Savings Programs that help pay their Medicare costs.

Although most people are keeping coverage during the post-pandemic medical renewals, approximately 232,000 people have or will need to consider other coverage options due to lost or reduced benefits.

• People who do not have coverage through an employer or Medicare may be able to enroll through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace and get financial help. Most people who enroll through HealthCare.gov qualify for this help.
• The Marketplace is sending information to people who are no longer eligible for OHP benefits, advising of other potential coverage options.
• People who have recently lost OHP benefits can enroll anytime until Nov. 30, 2024, or within 60 days of their benefits ending.
• For more information and ways to get help signing up for Marketplace, Medicare or employer coverage, see “What to do if OHP is ending” below.

Need help renewing your benefits?

1. Learn more about how to renew your OHP coverage. You can log into your ONE Online account and complete your renewal at benefits.oregon.gov.
2. Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075. All relay calls are accepted, and help is available in multiple languages. Wait times are lowest between 7 and 8 a.m., Pacific Time.
3. Visit or call a local Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) office. People can find their local office at https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/Pages/office-finder.aspx.
4. Visit a community partner for free, in-person help. To find one near you visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp (English) or orhim.info/ayuda (Spanish).
5. Download the Oregon ONE Mobile app via the app store to keep track of your renewal, find a local office, or upload a document.

What to do if your OHP is ending:

• First, review the case summary in your letter to make sure the information used to make the decision was correct. If that information has changed, notify the state via one of the options above. If the information on file for you is correct and you disagree with the decision, you can request a hearing. Learn more about hearings.
• Explore options through an employer. If you, your spouse or a parent are working, you may be eligible for health coverage through that employer. Talk to your manager or Human Resources department to see if you qualify. You will have a special enrollment period to enroll mid-year due to loss of OHP benefits.
• If you have or are eligible for Medicare: For help understanding and choosing the right Medicare options, go to https://OregonHealthcare.gov/GetHelp to find an insurance agent or a counselor at the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance Program (SHIBA). You can also call SHIBA at 800-722-4134.

If you need to sign up for Medicare for the first time, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 800-772-1213 to enroll by phone or find a local office. You can also enroll in Medicare online at ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up.

• Nearly 80 percent of Oregonians qualify for financial help through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/WindowShop to answer a few quick questions, find out how much you can save and find out how much coverage may cost you. You can also call the Marketplace Transition Help Center at 833-699-6850 (toll-free, all relay calls accepted).
• Need free local help finding other coverage? Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp to find professional help near you.

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) are committed to transparency and will continue to send monthly information about medical coverage among Oregonians. Check our ONE Eligibility Operations Dashboards for more frequent updates on medical renewal data and wait times for callers to the ONE Customer Service Center.

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July 23, 2024

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Opioid Settlement Board directs $13 million to substance use disorder treatment infrastructure

State Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission recommended allocation, which OHA will administer

PORTLAND, Ore. – A $13.08 million allocation by the Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment & Recovery Board (Settlement Board) will expand and strengthen the state’s access to substance use disorder treatment and services through opioid treatment programs (OTPs) and jails.

The Board approved Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission (ADPC) recommendations July 10. The allocation, which Oregon Health Authority (OHA) will administer, will improve access to medication for opioid use disorder and treatment services by providing:

• Up to $3.9 million to fund:
  • Two mobile or non-mobile medication units in Clackamas County serving Oregon City and rural Clackamas County.
  • An opioid treatment program or a mobile or non-mobile medication unit in Multnomah County serving the geographic areas of the county with the highest unmet need.
• Up to $9.1 million to fund a total of seven opioid treatment programs or mobile or non-mobile medication units, specifically:
  • Two in Northeastern Oregon.
  • One in the Mid-Gorge region.
  • One in Klamath County.
  • Two in underserved coastal areas.
  • One in eastern Lane County.

To be eligible for funding, a mobile or non-mobile medication unit or an opioid treatment program must be currently certified by OHA.

• Up to $250,000 to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) to provide technical assistance to jails and to foster collaboration between opioid treatment providers and jails.

The funding was awarded to OHA, which will administer the allocations. The Board’s decision can be viewed in a recording of its July 10 meeting here.

Prior to awarding any funding, OHA must engage the partners listed in the ADPC proposal and provide a proposed timeline and implementation plan to the Board for approval no later than Sept. 1, 2024.

Since July 2021, the State of Oregon has reached agreement on national lawsuits against several companies for their role in the opioid crisis. Through these agreements, nearly $600 million will be awarded to Oregon over the course of 18 years. Settlement funds from opioid manufacturers, distributors and pharmacies are divided between the State of Oregon (45%) and local jurisdictions (55%).

The state’s share is deposited as it becomes available into the Opioid Settlement, Prevention, Treatment and Recovery (OSPTR) Fund. This fund is controlled by the 18-member OSPTR Board.

Local jurisdictions receiving settlement funds (those with populations greater than 10,000) decide how their funds are used. Cities and counties are required to report to the Oregon Department of Justice annually on how they have allocated their funds.

For state and local spending details from Fiscal Year 2022-2023, refer to the Oregon Opioid Settlement Spending Report: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREVENTIONWELLNESS/SUBSTANCEUSE/OPIOIDS/Documents/opioid-settlement-report-fy-22-23.pdf.

The OSPTR Board will next consider additional investments in emerging issues.

To learn more about Oregon’s opioid settlement funds, visit oregon.gov/opioidsettlement.

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Part of a nearly $200 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant awarded to Oregon

SALEM, Ore. —   Oregon Housing and Community Services is set to receive more than $11 million in federal funding to increase energy efficiency in affordable housing. The award is part of a nearly $200 million federal grant Oregon received from the Environmental Protection Agency. 

“This is the largest climate pollution reduction grant Oregon has ever received,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “The effects of climate change are already among us, and we must assess how we do our work to ensure the state we call home is resilient. As climate evolves, so must our technology and policies. We have got to deliver results that people feel are making their lives better, which calls us to center communities that tend to bear the brunt of climate impacts. We appreciate the leadership of our federal delegation for pushing for these resources.”

“Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is a critical strategy to mitigate the impacts of climate change,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “When I was Speaker of the House, I fought for ambitious GHG reduction goals. This investment is not only an affirmation of Oregon’s collective efforts to combat climate change, but a significant down payment on our ability to meet our reduction goals with a statewide approach. I want to thank Oregon’s congressional delegation for their partnership in making this key investment happen.”

OHCS’ Multifamily Energy Program (OR-MEP) was part of the team applying for the federal grant. OR-MEP allocates funding to owners and developers of OHCS-funded affordable housing, such as The Lawrence in Portland, to increase energy efficiency in multifamily housing.

“Affordable housing isn’t helpful for residents if utility bills are high. At all of our properties, we look to decrease our residents’ energy burden while lowering our carbon footprint and providing welcoming and well-designed living spaces,” said Ben Pray, Chief Executive Officer at Home First Development, the owner of The Lawrence.

By installing various energy-efficient features, including heat pumps, water heaters, insulation, windows, and interior lighting, The Lawrence has developed a space where the residents can live affordably and with minimal energy burden. The multifamily development provides 96 units of affordable, environmentally friendly living for individuals and families with incomes below 60% of the area median, including a large community of refugees from Myanmar, Bangladesh, and India.

For more information or to apply for the program, visit the OR-MEP website. The deadline for submitting applications is Aug. 30, 2024.

el comunicado de prensa en español

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)
OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.

Salem, Ore. –  From soccer to surfing, fans will have more than 400 betting options through Oregon Lottery’s DraftKings Sportsbook for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, which begin on July 26. 

Betting options range from the number of medals for athletes and a country to whether a world record will be broken. Below are examples of wagers offered this year:

• Will one country win all medals in a sport?
• Which country will win the most gold medals? 
• In which sport will a country win its first gold medal?

Oregon Lottery debuted sports betting in October 2019 and since that time, wagers on Olympics have only been offered twice before. 

Some standout Oregonians are competing at the games: Jade Carey, a current Oregon State gymnast, will take her talents to Paris, along with Ryan Crouser of Boring, who holds a world record in shot put, and 18-year-old Magda Skarbonkiewicz, a former Jesuit High School student who will compete in fencing, among others. Portland Thorns forward Jainine Beckie and midfielder Jessie Fleming will compete for Canada on their quest for Olympic gold.

Oregon Lottery’s Sports Betting Products Manager Kerry Hemphill expects popular categories to be men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, and tennis.

“Because we’re in the off season for basketball and football, the summer months are typically slower for sports wagering,” she said. “We’re hoping to see a boost in interest thanks to U.S. Olympic stars.”

To play Oregon Lottery’s DraftKings Sportsbook or for more about the game, go to https://www.oregonlottery.org/sports/.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned nearly $15.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org. 

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) and Cycle Oregon will host a meeting 11 a.m. July 29 to discuss the proposed designation of the Aufderheide Scenic Bikeway, a 60-mile route that connects Highways 126 (McKenzie River) and 58 (Oakridge).

The meeting is open to the public. The agenda and link for the meeting is posted on the Scenic Bikeways website. 

Agenda: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/BWT/Documents/SB-Scenic%20Bikeway%20-%20Public%20Meeting%20Agenda-Aufderheide%20072924.pdf

Meeting registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_h0UZ0HFUSN-ODLTTf0Y3WQ#/registration

The Scenic Bikeways program was established in 2009 by Cycle Oregon, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Travel Oregon and the Oregon Department of Transportation. It now includes the state’s best 17 designated mostly-roadway bicycle routes to showcase Oregon’s breathtaking landscapes, cultural treasures and western hospitality. 

The program is currently managed under a partnership agreement between Cycle Oregon and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. 

The Scenic Bikeways is overseen by the Scenic Bikeway’s committee, an advisory group for the management and designation of routes nominated by the public for state scenic bikeways designation. Its members include citizen representatives, tourism organization, local governments and state agencies involved in bicycle recreation or transportation. 

For more information, contact Steve Schulz, Executive Director of Cycle Oregon at 503-381-4614 or steve@cycleoregon.com.

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) temporarily banned campfires at most Oregon State Parks due to dry conditions and the strain on firefighting resources from wildfires burning across the state. 

Campfires and open flames are banned at all parks east of the Cascades due to the low humidity and risk of wildfires. They’re also restricted at parks in high-risk areas across the state until conditions improve. Most bans impact parks east of the Cascades and in the valley with some restrictions at select coastal parks.

“We understand that campfires are an important part of the experience at Oregon State Parks. We don’t make the decision lightly to restrict the use of fire, but unfortunately conditions require that response. The decision is made in consultation with our local fire agencies. Thank you for helping us do our part to reduce the risk of any new wildfires,” said JR Collier, OPRD’s deputy of statewide operations.

Campfire restrictions generally ban all “open flame,” but often make exceptions for propane cooking as the flame is contained. Check individual park webpages for details on any restrictions before visiting. Restrictions are listed in alphabetical order in a feature story at stateparks.oregon.gov/ or on the individual park pages. 

OPRD also encourages visitors to know before they go when it comes to the impact of wildfires across the state:

• Several parks have been closed due to wildfires including Battle Mountain Forest State Scenic Corridor, Farewell Bend State Recreation Area, East and West Hatfield Trailheads on the Columbia River Highway State Trail and Ukiah-Dale Forest State Scenic Corridor. Check park webpages at stateparks.oregon.gov/ and search by park.
• Some parks have reduced air quality due to wildfire smoke. Check DEQ’s website for air quality information at www.oregonsmoke.org/
• Several roads and highways have been closed due to wildfires. Please use TripCheck to learn about closures and alternative routes. Relying on GPS might lead drivers into unsafe conditions

For more information about current wildfires around the state, go to the Oregon Department of Forestry’s website: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/firestats.aspx. 

For more information about wildfire prevention, please visit the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/osfm/education/pages/prevent-wildfires.aspx.

DEPOE BAY, Oregon— A virtual public hearing will be held 5:30 p.m. Aug. 14 to take public testimony on Ocean Shore Alteration Application number 3051 to build a riprap revetment west of SeaRidge Condominiums in Depoe Bay. 

The permit application requests to construct an approximately 600-foot-long riprap revetment on the Ocean Shore State Recreation Area west of the condominiums at 4175 N. Hwy 101 in Depoe Bay. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) regulates ocean shore activities including reviewing alteration permits.

The hearing includes an introduction by staff, and then the applicant will be provided an opportunity to clearly identify how the application substantially and factually includes information that demonstrates the proposal meets the review standard set forth in OAR 736-020-0003 through 736-020-0030. 

The public will then be provided an opportunity to present testimony.  Anyone wishing to testify must pre-register, each registered individual will be provided up to 3 minutes to testify. Within 45-days after the hearing, OPRD will make a permit decision. This decision will include consideration of public comment received during the public notice and this hearing.

Following OPRD’s initial evaluation of this application, it is not clear whether the proposal meets the applicable review standards. The Department must “determine if the granting of such permit would in any way be detrimental to the interests and safety of the public and to the preservation of the natural resource, scenic, recreational and economic values of the ocean shore” (OAR 736-020-0003(7)). 

This hearing is an opportunity for the department to further develop a factual basis for a permit decision based on the review standards, including whether the application demonstrates:

• There are no reasonable alternatives to the proposed design or construction methods that would better protect the ocean shore, including recreation, scenic, and natural resources.
• The proposed project was designed to avoid and minimize damage to, and retain the scenic attraction of, the known ancient forest remnants.
• The project avoids impact to properties not owned by the applicant, unless agreed to by the landowner.

The submitted materials for application 3051, can be viewed under the heading of “Pending Applications” at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/prp/pages/per-ocean-shore.aspx.

Register at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2l_2kNRdR-C0ml4eTYSaaA#/registration to attend the Zoom meeting or call Allison Mangini, 541-220-3786, allison.mangini@oprd.oregon.gov   by noon Aug. 13 to be added to the attendee list.

Following the hearing, registered attendees may provide written testimony until 5 p.m. Aug.  19.  Submit by sending to: 

• es.Permits@oprd.oregon.gov">OceanShores.Permits@oprd.oregon.gov, or
• Tyler Blanchette

OREGON PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT 

P.O. Box 2139 

Waldport, OR 97394 

Contact Ocean Shore Permit Coordinator, Tyler Blanchette 503-510-6741, .Blanchette@oprd.oregon.gov">Tyler.Blanchette@oprd.oregon.gov, for questions about permit application process.

The services, programs and activities of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department are covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you need special accommodations to participate in this meeting, please contact Allison Mangini at 541-220-3786, allison.mangini@oprd.oregon.gov by 5 p.m. Aug. 8.

Salem, Ore. – As wildfires continue to burn throughout the state and extreme weather events impact communities, Oregon residents are reminded to be prepared for potential power outages. Wildfires and extreme weather can cause power outages, and weather and other conditions in specific geographies may cause electric utilities to adjust system settings, which can result in more frequent and longer outages, or even in certain cases, implement public safety power shutoffs (PSPS). A PSPS is a safety measure designed to help protect people and communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might result in wildfires. Utilities may also need to deenergize lines to protect equipment from nearby fires, or to protect personnel fighting fires.

Be prepared in advance 

Prepare your home and businesses in the event a wildfire or weather incident leads to a power outage. 

• Be two weeks ready – Gather food, medical supplies, batteries, pet supplies, among other things, needed by family members during an outage or evacuation for up to two weeks. Learn more about what supplies to consider. 
• For individuals with a medical condition that requires power, contact your electricity service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. This certification provides added benefits and helps the utility ensure they meet your needs in the event of an outage. 
• Make sure your utility service provider has current contact information to receive notifications by updating your account online. If uncertain which electric utility serves your area, visit https://www.oregon.gov/energy/energy-oregon/pages/find-your-utility.aspx.
• Keep cell phones fully charged in anticipation of an outage. Consider a car-charger for cell phones and other electronic devices.
• Plan for livestock water needs in the event well pumps lose power.
• Have a plan to relocate to an alternative location for power needs, or if you can, consider a backup generator.

During a power outage

• Avoid downed power lines, including anything near downed lines, at all costs.
• Stay clear of fire personnel and utility crews working to restore service in your community. 
• Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for emergency lighting. Do not use candles or other potential fire hazards. 
• Turn off lights and unplug electric appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer to help avoid a surge to the system when service is restored. After turning off all the lights, turn one light on to know when power has been restored. 
• Use generators safely – Do not run the generator inside the home or garage or anywhere near a window or vent, as these spaces can capture deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Learn more about proper use of a generator to avoid hazardous conditions. 
• Check on elderly neighbors or individuals with special needs who might need additional assistance.
• Call your electricity service provider to report an outage, do not call 911.

Natural gas tips

• If required to evacuate, no need to shut off natural gas.
• If natural gas appliances do not operate properly once electricity is restored, call your natural gas service provider. 
• If natural gas service is shut off, do not turn on yourself. Call your natural gas service provider to restore service. 
• If you smell natural gas, evacuate immediately and call 911. 

Stay informed

• Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts and messages.
• Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system. Provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts. 
• Before traveling visit Trip Check for details on road closures and conditions.
• Check air quality in Oregon.
• Visit State of Oregon Fires Dashboard.

###

Application approval impacts securing of land along proposed line

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) is hosting an in-person meeting on July 30, 2024, for the public to comment on Portland General Electric’s application for a certificate of public convenience and necessity (CPCN). PGE’s request is part of its proposed construction of a transmission line that would connect the Rosemont and Wilsonville substations known as the Rosemont-Wilsonville Line. 

PGE has asked the PUC to issue a CPCN for this project. If granted, PGE would use this certificate in court proceedings where it seeks to condemn an interest in land along the transmission line’s path. The certificate would demonstrate to the court that the transmission line is a public use and necessary for public convenience. View the proposed path for the transmission line below.

Comment in person - Tualatin, Oregon 

When:          Tuesday, July 30, 2024, from 6-7 p.m. PDT
This meeting may go beyond the scheduled end time to allow more people to comment. The Commission will attempt to accommodate all individuals arriving before 7 p.m. PDT. This event will not be livestreamed.

Where:        Century Hotel, 8185 SW Tualatin-Sherwood Road, Tualatin, OR 97062

Other ways to submit comments 

Please submit comments by August 28, 2024, to be reviewed and included in opening testimony. Comments will be accepted throughout the proceeding. Comments filed by November 4, 2024, will be included in testimony later in the case. Any later filed comments will be posted to the docket.

• Public Comment Form online
• email licComments@puc.oregon.gov">PUC.PublicComments@puc.oregon.gov  
• Call 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404 (all relay calls accepted) 
• Mail comments to: Oregon Public Utility Commission, Attn: AHD – PCN 6, POC Box 1088, Salem, OR 97308-1088
  
   

Stay Informed

To stay informed throughout this process, individuals may request to be added to the distribution list to receive publicly available documents. Submit requests by email to ings@puc.oregon.gov">puc.hearings@puc.oregon.gov or by calling 503-378-6678. Please specify docket PCN 6 in the request.

# # #

The PUC regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, including Portland General Electric, Idaho Power, Pacific Power, Avista, Cascade Natural, and NW Natural. The PUC also regulates landline telephone providers and select water companies. The PUC’s mission is to ensure Oregonians have access to safe, reliable, and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest. We use an inclusive process to evaluate differing viewpoints and visions of the public interest and arrive at balanced, well-reasoned, independent decisions supported by fact and law. For more information about the PUC, visit oregon.gov/puc.            

The 2024 Benton County Fair & Rodeo starts July 31 through Aug. 3, and this year's Fair and Rodeo Queen, Naomi Bailey, will be sharing the spotlight with her remarkable Mustang, Ochoco. Naomi, from Newberg and an Oregon State University student, trained Ochoco through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge, a competition that challenges young trainers to tame wild horses. Their journey, filled with dedication and mutual respect, will be on full display during the rodeo's halftime show.

Check out this video with Naomi and Ochoco: Meet Naomi Bailey, Your 2024 Benton County Fair & Rodeo Queen! (youtube.com)

Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge is a 100-day training competition that challenges young trainers to tame wild horses and burros. Participants, like Naomi, invest time, dedication, and heart into transforming these animals from the wild into loyal and dependable companions. The program concludes with a live auction where the trained Mustangs and burros are adopted, ensuring continued care and management. This initiative not only promotes the humane treatment of wild horses but also showcases the incredible trainability and versatility of the Mustang breed.

Naomi’s journey with Ochoco began in May 2021, when she was selected among many applicants to participate in the program. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) rounds up the herds, and teens like Naomi are given the chance to train these impressive animals. Naomi says her scientific background and lifelong passion for horses made her an ideal candidate for the program.

“Mustangs are incredibly important to me,” Naomi said. “They were introduced by the Spanish, and with no natural predators left, they’ve overpopulated. Training and domesticating them is a way to save the species and allow them to be loved by the public. Ochoco is the coolest horse. He’s been broke for less than a year, and the bond we’ve created is like no other. He tries so hard for me, and that bond is something truly special.”

Naomi and Ochoco’s bond will be displayed during the Benton County Fair and Rodeo. They will perform during the rodeo's halftime show on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, showcasing the remarkable qualities of her Mustang. Ochoco, with his versatility and emotional connection to Naomi, will demonstrate why Mustangs make exceptional companions.

The Teens and Oregon Mustangs program has gained recognition and support through social media and other platforms, helping raise awareness and funds, and Naomi said donations are crucial to the program’s mission of promoting humane treatment and management of wild horses and burros.

Ochoco shows the success of the program. From wild horse to rodeo performer, his journey reflects the dedication and passion of trainers like Naomi. 

“I’ve always loved horses,” Naomi said. “Being part of this program and working with Ochoco has been an incredible experience. The bond you can create with a Mustang is unparalleled. They are a clean slate and connect deeply with their handler.”

Naomi’s journey with Ochoco doesn’t end at the Benton County Fair. Her ultimate goal is to become Miss Rodeo Oregon, continuing to promote the welfare of Mustangs and the Teens and Oregon Mustangs program.

For more information about the program and how you can support their mission, visit Teens and Oregon Mustangs.

Join Naomi and Ochoco at the Benton County Fair and Rodeo to witness their remarkable bond and the incredible potential of Mustangs.

Benton County Fair & Rodeo tickets are on sale now at www.bentoncountyfair.net. All rodeos and concerts are included with the price of admission.

View Photos of Naomi and Ochoco.

###

Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco pause for a photo at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco pause for a photo at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco prepare for a photo and video shoot at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

The 2024 Benton County Fair & Rodeo starts July 31 through Aug. 3, and this year's Fair and Rodeo Queen, Naomi Bailey, will be sharing the spotlight with her remarkable Mustang, Ochoco. Naomi, from Newberg and an Oregon State University student, trained Ochoco through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge, a competition that challenges young trainers to tame wild horses. Their journey, filled with dedication and mutual respect, will be on full display during the rodeo's halftime show.

Check out this video with Naomi and Ochoco: Meet Naomi Bailey, Your 2024 Benton County Fair & Rodeo Queen! (youtube.com)

Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge is a 100-day training competition that challenges young trainers to tame wild horses and burros. Participants, like Naomi, invest time, dedication, and heart into transforming these animals from the wild into loyal and dependable companions. The program concludes with a live auction where the trained Mustangs and burros are adopted, ensuring continued care and management. This initiative not only promotes the humane treatment of wild horses but also showcases the incredible trainability and versatility of the Mustang breed.

Naomi’s journey with Ochoco began in May 2021, when she was selected among many applicants to participate in the program. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) rounds up the herds, and teens like Naomi are given the chance to train these impressive animals. Naomi says her scientific background and lifelong passion for horses made her an ideal candidate for the program.

“Mustangs are incredibly important to me,” Naomi said. “They were introduced by the Spanish, and with no natural predators left, they’ve overpopulated. Training and domesticating them is a way to save the species and allow them to be loved by the public. Ochoco is the coolest horse. He’s been broke for less than a year, and the bond we’ve created is like no other. He tries so hard for me, and that bond is something truly special.”

Naomi and Ochoco’s bond will be displayed during the Benton County Fair and Rodeo. They will perform during the rodeo's halftime show on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, showcasing the remarkable qualities of her Mustang. Ochoco, with his versatility and emotional connection to Naomi, will demonstrate why Mustangs make exceptional companions.

The Teens and Oregon Mustangs program has gained recognition and support through social media and other platforms, helping raise awareness and funds, and Naomi said donations are crucial to the program’s mission of promoting humane treatment and management of wild horses and burros.

Ochoco shows the success of the program. From wild horse to rodeo performer, his journey reflects the dedication and passion of trainers like Naomi. 

“I’ve always loved horses,” Naomi said. “Being part of this program and working with Ochoco has been an incredible experience. The bond you can create with a Mustang is unparalleled. They are a clean slate and connect deeply with their handler.”

Naomi’s journey with Ochoco doesn’t end at the Benton County Fair. Her ultimate goal is to become Miss Rodeo Oregon, continuing to promote the welfare of Mustangs and the Teens and Oregon Mustangs program.

For more information about the program and how you can support their mission, visit Teens and Oregon Mustangs.

Join Naomi and Ochoco at the Benton County Fair and Rodeo to witness their remarkable bond and the incredible potential of Mustangs.

Benton County Fair & Rodeo tickets are on sale now at www.bentoncountyfair.com. All rodeos and concerts are included with the price of admission.

View Photos of Naomi and Ochoco

###

Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco pause for a photo at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco pause for a photo at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco prepare for a photo and video shoot at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

Benton County is pleased to announce the implementation of a new online platform, MuniCode, which offers improved access to Benton County Code chapters. The MuniCode platform aims to improve the public’s experience navigating the Code in many ways.

MuniCode is an easily searchable tool that houses the entire County Code and County Charter. The public can use it to search for keywords such as floodplain, accessory dwelling unit, solid waste management, food handlers license, vehicle camping, and more.

County Code refers to the collection of laws, regulations, and ordinances enacted by the governing body of a county. These codes govern various aspects of life within the county, including zoning, land use, building standards, public safety, health regulations, and other local administrative procedures. The County Code serves as a legal framework to ensure orderly development, protect public health and safety, and promote general welfare within the county.

“This change is a great enhancement for our community as it provides increased accessibility and transparency and will be a time saver for community members,” said Benton County Commissioner Nancy Wyse."

The MuniCode platform comes standard with Google Translate built-in, enabling instant translation of the Code into 200+ languages, increasing accessibility for non-native English speakers. Following the initial implementation, MuniCode will display the history of code amendments over time. Users can choose to subscribe to be notified of code changes in sections of interest to them.

An additional feature, MuniDocs, is also now available. MuniDocs will house and organize many important County documents. MuniDocs will allow for full searchability within documents uploaded to the platform using keyword searches.

Benton County’s Code officially went live on the MuniCode platform this month, July 2024, joining thousands of other jurisdictions nationwide using this same online tool.

You can access the full Benton County Code directly from the County’s website, from within County Counsel’s page, Community Development’s page, or from the MuniCode Library by selecting the state of Oregon and Benton County from the list. 

Benton County continues to look for ways to increase transparency and improve the public’s experience navigating complex systems. The County made this investment in MuniCode in early 2024 as part of an initiative to enhance website functionality, increase the searchability of Code language, and display Code amendments. Users will no longer need to download individual Code chapters in their search for information. Instead, users can search for terms from within the platform, identify the Code section of interest, share a link directly to specific sections of the Code, print, download, email, compare versions of the Code over time, view recent ordinances, and get technical support – all within one platform. 

“Implementing the MuniCode platform is a significant step forward in making our County Code more accessible and transparent to the public. We are proud to join thousands of other jurisdictions in using this innovative tool,” said Rick Crager, Assistant County Administrator.

This new platform enhances transparency and accessibility, ensuring that Benton County residents can easily access, understand, and stay updated on local regulations and ordinances.

###

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

Treatment targeting harmful algae at Vancouver Lake Regional Park is scheduled for Thursday, July 25, 2024.

AquaTechnex, a lake and aquatic plant management firm with expertise in managing harmful algal blooms, will apply an aquatic algaecide to the water at the Vancouver Lake swim beach. Boats will be used to apply the algaecide, which is designed to target and kill cells in harmful algae.

The application will begin at about 11 am Thursday and is expected to take about two hours, during which the swim beach will be closed to the public. Algae has been observed in the water column at the swim beach. When algae die, it releases cyanotoxins. It’s unclear whether the treatment will cause toxin levels to exceed threshold levels recommended by the Washington Department of Health. As a precaution, Clark County Public Health is issuing a warning advisory for the swim beach, pending test results from water samples collected after treatment.

While a warning advisory is in place, Public Health advises against swimming or water skiing in the lake and recommends avoiding areas of scum when using motorized boats, paddle boarding, kayaking or canoeing. Fish should be cleaned well, and organs should be discarded. 

When applied in water, the algaecide targets the algae cells and then breaks down after treatment into water and oxygen. The algaecide does not pose a risk to people and pets, or cause harm to other plants, birds, fish and wildlife when applied according to the directions on the label. As a reminder, dogs and other domestic animals – except for service animals – are not allowed on the beach or surrounding grassy area of Vancouver Lake Regional Park between April 1 and Oct. 31.

Vancouver Lake Management Plan
In August 2023, Clark County completed the Vancouver Lake Management Plan, aiming to develop a long-term plan to restore and maintain the health of Vancouver Lake. This year, Clark County was awarded a $330,000 legislative proviso to implement recommendations from the management plan. One recommendation within the plan was to implement a beach management plan for the Vancouver Lake swim beach.

Clark County’s Clean Water Division is working closely with Clark County Parks and Lands Division, Clark County Public Health and Herrera Environmental Consultants – with input from community stakeholders through the Vancouver Lake Technical Advisory Group – to develop and implement a beach management plan, which includes the algaecide treatment. Additional algae treatments are expected to occur this summer.

For more information, visit the Vancouver Lake Management Plan Project webpage. 

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a motorcycle and vehicle collision in Amboy on July 21, 2024.

This individual died on 07/21/2024 in Amboy, WA.

The name of the decedent: Thomas, Aaron Michael  Age: 41 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): La Center, WA

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Blunt neck and spine injuries

Manner of death:  Accident

How the injury occurred: Operator of motorcycle in collision with vehicle

Place of injury: County road

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

Media release issue date: 07/24/2024

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is seeking nominations of businesses and individuals for its annual Clark County Disability Employment Awareness Month Awards. The awards honor the role people with developmental disabilities have in assisting us to achieve a dynamic, productive workforce and recognize the leadership of the business community. The event also celebrates October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Awards will be given for the following categories:

1. Large Employer of people with developmental/intellectual disabilities 

(50 or more local employees)

1. Small Employer of people with developmental/intellectual disabilities

(49 or less local employees)

1. Employee with a developmental/intellectual disability
2. Dennis Campbell Outstanding Service Award for outstanding service to improving the lives of individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities
3. David Hanawalt Service Award for an employment specialist who demonstrates service to their clients above and beyond the client’s expectations, exceeds the contractual expectations, and promotes client success and growth.

Award recipients will be honored at the 24^th Annual Disability Employment Awareness Month Celebration which will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024. The ceremony runs from 4:30 pm to 6 pm with networking happening from 4-4:30 P.M

Anyone wishing to nominate a business or individual can access the nomination forms via the following link: 2024 Nomination Form. You can also download a PDF of the nomination form and email it to Cheri Osterman, i.osterman@clark.wa.gov">cheri.osterman@clark.wa.gov.

Deadline for submission is 5 pm Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024. 

For more information or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Emily Harris at emily@gowise.org or (503) 750-9776. 

Clark County busca nominar a negocios y personas de la comunidad para los Premios de Concientización sobre el Empleo de Personas con Discapacidad. 

Vancouver, Washington: Clark County busca nominar a negocios y personas para los premios anuales del Mes de Concientización sobre el Empleo de Personas con Discapacidad de Clark County. Los premios honran el papel que desempeñan las personas con discapacidades del desarrollo en ayudarnos a lograr una fuerza laboral dinámica y productiva, y reconocen el liderazgo de la comunidad empresarial. El evento también celebra octubre como el Mes Nacional de la Concientización sobre el Empleo de Personas con Discapacidad.

Se otorgarán premios en las siguientes categorías:

1. Gran empleador de personas con discapacidades intelectuales o del desarrollo 

(50 o más empleados locales)

1. Pequeño empleador de personas con discapacidades intelectuales o del desarrollo

(49 o menos empleados locales)

1. Empleado con una discapacidad intelectual o del desarrollo
2. Premio Dennis Campbell al Servicio Excepcional por mejorar la vida de las personas con discapacidades intelectuales o del desarrollo.
3. Premio David Hanawalt al Servicio para el especialista en empleo que preste servicios que superen las expectativas del cliente y las expectativas contractuales, y que promueva el éxito y el crecimiento del cliente.

Los ganadores de los premios serán honrados en la 24.ª Celebración Anual del Mes de Concientización sobre el Empleo de Personas con Discapacidad, que se llevará a cabo el miércoles, 9 de octubre de 2024. La ceremonia se llevará a cabo de 4:30 p. m. a 6 pm, con una sesión de networking de 4 pm a 4:30 pm.

Las personas que quieran nominar a un negocio o a un individuo, deben acceder a los formularios de nominación a través del siguiente enlace: 2024 Nomination Form (Formulario de nominación para 2024). También puede descargar un PDF del formulario de nominación y enviarlo por correo electrónico a Cheri Osterman, i.osterman@clark.wa.gov">cheri.osterman@clark.wa.gov.

La fecha límite es el miércoles, 14 de agosto de 2024, a las 5 p.m.

Para más información u oportunidades de patrocinio, póngase en contacto con Emily Harris a emily@gowise.org o (503) 750-9776. 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works summer road preservation has begun.

As part of this work, there will be two single-day road closures on Aug. 1 and Aug. 5. 

Northeast 182nd Avenue/Northeast Ward Road between Northeast 172nd Avenue and Northeast 159th Avenue will be closed on Thursday, Aug. 1. Drivers are advised to take Northeast 172nd Avenue.

Northeast 172nd Avenue between Northeast 99th Street and Northeast 159th Street will be closed on Monday, Aug. 5. Drivers are advised to take Northeast 182nd Avenue/Northeast Ward Road.

Drivers should choose an alternate route during the closure and adhere to posted detour signage while in the project area. A signed detour will be in place during construction. 

Each closure is scheduled for one working day. Construction is weather-dependent, and closure start and end dates are subject to change. 

During the closure, local access will be accommodated for residents within the closure area and for emergency vehicles. 

More information about the project, a detour map and project updates are available at clark.wa.gov/public-works/summer-road-preservation.

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

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

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

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

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

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County recognizes that older adults are valuable contributors to the vitality of this community. To encourage and support older adults for their contributions to their communities, the Clark County Commission on Aging established a program to recognize older adults by means of an annual award presented at a Commission on Aging event.

The Silver Citizen Award recognizes the valuable contributions older adults make to the community and is open to any county resident 60 years or older who has enhanced the community through their life’s work, engagement of others, volunteerism and or other impactful acts of service to the community for any age group. Major emphasis is placed on contributions to the community made by the individual after reaching age 60. Service in any field of endeavor will be considered (e.g., education, radio, television, business, healthcare, art, music, journalism, faith-based, athletics, politics, volunteer service). A couple may receive the award jointly when both have been involved in service and various community endeavors.

All nominations must be received no later than 5 p.m., Friday, Aug. 30, 2024. Award criteria and nomination forms can be found on the Commission on Aging’s webpage at www.clark.wa.gov/aging. 

The Commission on Aging, supported by the Clark County Council, is a nine-member volunteer group that implements the Aging Readiness Plan and provides leadership addressing needs of aging community members. 

For more about the commission, visit www.clark.wa.gov/aging. 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the seven-member Parks Advisory Board. 

The open position is for an unexpired term that begins immediately and ends Dec. 31, 2025.

Board members serve three-year terms. Upon expiration of a term, a member can apply again. There is no limit on how many terms a member can serve. 

The Parks Advisory Board advises the Clark County Council and county staff on parks planning, acquisition, development, and related issues. Applicants must be residents of Clark County. The county is looking for applicants from historically underserved or underrepresented populations including residents who can bring ethnic, cultural, and geographic diversity to the group. A board member located in north Clark County or in the unincorporated area of Clark County is preferred to assist with geographic diversity.

Clark County Washington is a growing and diverse community with many residents speaking languages other than English. The Parks Advisory Board values the community’s diversity and seeks ways to promote equity and inclusion within the organization and with the public. The board encourages applications from candidates with knowledge, ability and experience working with a broad range of individuals and communities with diverse racial, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. Although not required, candidates who can fluently speak a language in addition to English are encouraged to include that information in their application. Residents with a passion for parks and the ability to commit to volunteer hours beyond monthly board meetings are encouraged to apply. 

The advisory board meets from 4 to 6 pm the second Tuesday of each month. The board typically meets at the Luke Jensen Sports Complex in the LJSP Bud Van Cleve Community Room, 4000 NE 78th St., which is served by C-TRAN’s Route 78. The board is currently holding meetings in a hybrid format using Microsoft Teams in conjunction with the in-person gatherings.

Interested applicants should submit a brief letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager’s Office, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or by email at michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, Aug. 16, 2024.

More information about the parks board is available on the county’s website, www.clark.wa.gov/public-works/parks-advisory-board.

(Astoria, OR) — Clatsop County is accepting applications for two vacancies on the County-wide Budget Committee. 

Budget committee members review the proposed overall county budget, make recommendations and approve the proposed budget for adoption by the county commissioners.

The committee is made up of five local residents appointed by commissioners. The committee generally meets in May to review the proposed budget. One vacancy is for a term ending June 30, 2025, and the other for a term ending June 30, 2027.

It is preferred but not required that applicants live within Commissioner Districts 1 and 4. District 1 includes Warrenton, Hamond and southwest Astoria. District 4 represents areas south and east of Astoria.

The application deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, August 19, 2024. To apply, submit an online application at ClatsopCounty.gov. You also may pick up an application at the Clatsop County Manager’s Office, 800 Exchange St., Suite 410 in Astoria.

The Board of Commissioners will make the appointment during one of the Fall 2024 Board of Commissioners meetings.

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(Astoria, OR) — Mientras los encargados de los incendios aumentan el peligro de incendio, Clatsop está creando conciencia sobre los peligros de las quemaduras.

"La quema de escombros es la principal razón de los incendios provocados por el hombre", dijo Justin Gibbs, director de manejo de emergencias del condado de Clatsop. “Le instamos a que evite quemar escombros del jardín este verano. Podemos reducir significativamente el riesgo de un gran incendio forestal esperando a que arda o tomando medidas adicionales para controlarlo”.

A principios de este mes, los administradores de incendios aumentaron el nivel de peligro de incendio a Alto (amarillo) para los recreacionistas que utilizan los bosques en las zonas climáticas NW-2 y NW-3. No se permiten quemar barriles ni fogatas residenciales en NW-2 y NW-3 cuando el peligro de incendio sea alto.

La forma en que elimine los escombros de su jardín podría prevenir un gran incendio forestal.

Considere la posibilidad de hacer abono, triturar o cubrir su pila hasta que sea más seguro quemarla. O llévelo a un centro de reciclaje.

Si no puede quemar de manera segura los escombros de su jardín, cubra la pila para dejar que se seque durante el verano. Luego quémelo en el otoño cuando vuelva a ser seguro.

Si debes quemar:

1. Llame a su agencia de bomberos local antes de quemar, para asegurarse de que no haya restricciones ni requisitos.
2. Consulta la previsión meteorológica
3. Limpia un círculo de 10 pies alrededor de tu pila.
4. Tenga siempre una manguera conectada a un suministro de agua, o tenga una fuente de agua disponible y mantenga una pala cerca
5. Nunca uses gasolina
6. Queme únicamente los escombros del jardín
7. Quédate con tu quemadura. Nunca lo dejes desatendido
8. Asegúrate de que el fuego esté apagado y frío al tacto.

El Departamento de Calidad Ambiental de Oregón tiene un mapa en línea que muestra las restricciones de prevención de incendios.

Si se quema y se le escapa, podría resultarle costoso. Si su quema de escombros se extiende fuera de control, es posible que tenga que pagar los costos de supresión y los daños a las propiedades de sus vecinos, lo que puede ser extremadamente costoso.

Para obtener más información sobre la quema de escombros y la prevención de incendios forestales, visite KeepOregonGreen.org, o su departamento de bomberos o distrito de bomberos local.

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(Astoria, OR) — With fire managers increasing fire danger to high earlier this month, Clatsop is raising awareness of the dangers of burning.

“Debris burning is the leading reason for human-caused fires,” said Justin Gibbs, Clatsop County emergency management director. “We urge you to avoid burning yard debris this summer. We can significantly reduce the risk of a large wildfire by waiting to burn or taking extra steps to control a fire.” 

Fire managers increased the fire danger level to High (yellow) for recreationists using the forests in the NW-2 and NW-3 weather zones. Burn barrels and residential campfires are not allowed in NW-2 and NW-3 under when fire danger is High.

How you dispose of your yard debris could prevent a large wildfire. 

Consider composting, chipping, or covering your pile until it’s safer to burn. Or haul it to a recycling center.

If you cannot safely burn your yard debris, cover your pile to let it dry out over the summer. Then burn it in the fall when it is safe again.

If you must burn:

1. Call your local fire agency before you burn, to make sure there are not any restrictions or requirements
2. Check the weather forecast
3. Clear a 10-feet circle around your pile
4. Always have a hose connected to a water supply, or have a water source available, and keep a shovel nearby
5. Never use gasoline
6. Burn yard debris only
7. Stay with your burn. Never leave it unattended
8. Make sure your fire is dead out and cold to the touch

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has an online map showing fire prevention restrictions.

If you do burn and it gets away from you, it could be costly. If your debris burn spreads out of control, you may have to pay for suppression costs and damages to your neighbors’ properties which can be extremely expensive. 

For more information on debris burning and wildfire prevention, visit KeepOregonGreen.org, or your local fire department or fire district. 

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Salem, OR — Marion County took a significant step forward yesterday in addressing community behavioral health and public safety needs with the groundbreaking for a new Secure Residential Treatment Facility (SRTF) near Regal Santiam on Lancaster Drive in Salem. 

County Commissioner Danielle Bethell spoke at the groundbreaking, and Commissioner Kevin Cameron was in attendance. The event marked the beginning of construction on a facility that will provide essential services to individuals who need a high level of care who may be a danger to themselves or others.

An SRTF is designed for individuals with mental health conditions who require a higher level of supervision and care than a traditional residential treatment facility. These facilities are typically secure to prevent patients from harming themselves or others.

“Our community has needed expanded services like this for so long," said Commissioner Bethell. "I can’t express how grateful I am for the hard work of all the community partners who came together to ensure individuals in need can receive the support and treatment they deserve."

The facility, which will be operated by Community First Solutions, is set to be completed in February of 2025.

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Salem, OR – Public Health officials in Marion County have confirmed one new case of measles and identified one presumptive case. The confirmed case involves an unvaccinated child who was diagnosed on July 23. The presumptive case is in the same household as a previously confirmed measles case. A presumptive case means the individual has symptoms consistent with measles, but the diagnosis has not been confirmed through laboratory testing. 

The first confirmed case of measles in Marion County was announced on June 17, 2024. To date, all cases have involved unvaccinated individuals, ranging in age from 3 to 43 years. There is no known connection between any of the confirmed cases, and no public exposure has been identified. Public health officials are actively investigating these cases. 

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world, and cases are on the rise in the U.S. and other countries. As of July 11, 2024, the CDC has reported 167 measles cases in the U.S., with 84% of these cases involving individuals who were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. In comparison, there were 58 measles cases reported in the U.S. in 2023. 

“Measles is highly contagious and easily transmitted. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the room,” said Marion County Public Health Officer, Dr. Caroline Castillo. “The best way to protect your family from measles is to get vaccinated.”

Most people receive the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine during childhood, which greatly reduces the risk of getting measles. However, unvaccinated individuals are at much higher risk if exposed to the virus. 

Measles symptoms usually appear 7-21 days after exposure and include:

• Fever
• Rash
• Cough
• Red, watery eyes

Common complications include ear infections, lung infections and severe diarrhea. Although rare, a more severe complication is swelling of the brain. According to the CDC, about 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the U.S. who get measles require hospitalization.

If you think you or someone in your household has measles:

• Stay home and avoid public places such as work, school, and stores
• Do not invite visitors to your home if someone has a fever or rash
• Do not visit a medical office without calling ahead. Call your healthcare provider or urgent care center to arrange a plan for your visit. This is to prevent the spreading of the virus to others. 

Individuals are considered immune to measles if any of the following apply:

• Born before 1957
• Diagnosed with measles in the past
• A blood test confirms immunity
• Received two doses of the measles vaccine.

For more information about measles, visit https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx

Salem, OR — Today, the Marion County Board of Commissioners adopted an emergency ordinance allowing eligible homeowners whose homes were impacted by the 2020 wildfires to qualify for a special tax assessment on their rebuilt homestead.

This ordinance is in response to Senate Bill 1545, passed in the 2024 legislative session which addresses the urgent need to reset property tax assessments for Santiam Canyon residents affected by the devastating 2020 Labor Day wildfires. Marion County worked diligently alongside the bill’s sponsors to get it across the finish line.

“I want to thank the Legislature for getting Senate Bill 1545 through to allow this ordinance and help the people with wildfire recovery,” said Commissioner Kevin Cameron, Chair. “I want to highlight that this will reset property taxes for those who rebuilt their homes after the 2020 wildfires to pre-fire levels. Some people’s taxes doubled or tripled after rebuilding, and this will remedy that.”

“We’re passing this as an emergency ordinance so that it takes effect today, and homeowners are immediately able to apply,” said Commissioner Danielle Bethell. 

Under Oregon's current tax laws, property tax assessments are subject to certain limitations, with the maximum assessed value of unchanged properties increasing by no more than 3% each year. However, legal or physical changes to the property, such as rebuilding after a wildfire, are exceptions to this limit, often resulting in significant property tax increases for affected residents.

This emergency ordinance will provide much-needed relief to fire-impacted residents by allowing them to reset their property taxes to the homestead's real market value for the 2020-2021 tax year, based on the original square footage of their original residence. This ordinance may lower property taxes back to pre-fire rates for those who have rebuilt or plan to rebuild their homes on the same lot.

Eligible residents may find instructions to apply, as well as the Application for Rebuilt Homestead Special Assessment, on the Assessor’s Office website.

City of Battle Ground Mayor Troy McCoy recently earned an Advanced Certificate of Municipal Leadership from the Association of Washington Cities (AWC).

AWC’s Certificate of Municipal Leadership program recognizes city and town elected officials for accomplishing training in five core areas:

• Roles, responsibilities, and legal requirements
• Public sector resource management
• Community planning and development
• Effective local leadership
• Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

Those who earn the advanced certificate have continued to strive for excellence by attending conferences and trainings, serving their community, and further developing leadership skills. 

“Being a city leader in Washington is a complex job,” said AWC CEO Deanna Dawson. “Through our Advanced CML program we are providing our elected officials with the knowledge they need to effectively operate within the law, plan for the future, secure and manage funds, foster strong relationships, and work to build more equitable communities.” 

To earn the Advanced Certificate of Municipal Leadership, McCoy completed more than 60 hours of training and demonstrated local community service. 

McCoy was elected to the Battle Ground City Council in November 2021.  He began his two-year term as Mayor in January 2024.  He previously served as a member of the Battle Ground Education Foundation and the Battle Ground Public School District Board of Directors. 

AWC serves its members through advocacy, education, and services. Founded in 1933, AWC is a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan corporation that represents Washington’s 281 cities and towns before the state legislature, the state executive branch, and with regulatory agencies. AWC also provides training, data and publications, and programs such as the AWC Employee Benefit Trust, AWC Risk Management Service Agency, AWC Workers’ Comp Retro, AWC Drug and Alcohol Consortium, and AWC GIS Consortium. 

GRESHAM, Ore. – The Gresham Fire Department is hosting a blood drive in honor of Firefighter Spencer Tejedas, who is currently recovering from severe injuries sustained in the line of duty. The event will be held on Friday, August 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Gresham City Hall Conference Center, 1333 Northwest Eastman Parkway, Gresham.  

In support of Firefighter Tejedas, the Gresham Fire Department is encouraging community members to donate blood. To schedule an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter the sponsor code: GreshamFD. 

On Thursday, May 30, Gresham Fire Department and Portland Fire and Rescue responded to reports of a duplex fire on the 1300 block of Southeast 182nd Street. The incident required a complex response due to the rapidly evolving nature of the fire.  

Three Gresham firefighters were injured and transported to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. Two have since been released, but Firefighter Spencer Tejedas remains hospitalized with severe burns covering over 45% of his body. 

“Our firefighters risk their lives and show up for our community when they need it most,” said Gresham Fire Chief Scott Lewis. “This blood drive is a tangible way our community can impact Spencer’s recovery and show up for the Tejedas family during this difficult time.” 

Eligible donors of all blood types are welcome. However, individuals with type O, B-, or A- blood are especially encouraged to consider making a Power Red donation, which maximizes the impact by collecting red blood cells, the most commonly transfused blood component. 

Join us in supporting Firefighter Spencer Tejedas and others in need by donating blood. Your generosity can make a significant difference in the lives of many patients. 

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Oregon City, ORE. - The new Deputy Director for the Parks and Recreation Department has been announced, and that person will already be a familiar face within the department. Tom Kissinger, who is currently the Parks and Cemetery Manager, has accepted the position. 

Parks and Recreation Director Kendall Reid said Kissinger’s experience will make him an ideal fit for the role. “He has managed and administered operations, programming, and maintenance services for park systems or similar organizations for 7 years, in addition to 10 years of experience in financial analysis, budgeting, strategic planning, project management, and customer service. Combined with his passion for public lands and community engagement, he has been a great asset for our department and will and even greater one in this new capacity,” said Reid.

Reid went on to cite Kissinger’s track record of post-fire recovery efforts, park management, as well as success in securing outside funding for various projects as additional skills that will benefit to the department, and residents. 

Kissinger was one of several candidates applying for the position who went through an extensive recruitment and interview process. City leadership said ultimately it was his experience, both with the City and prior, that put him at the top of the list.

Recruitment to fill Kissinger’s prior position, Parks and Cemetery Manager, has begun.  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 23, 2024, Oregon City, ORE. – The City of Oregon City officials were pleased to announce Tuesday the appointment of Dayna Webb as the new Public Works Director. Dayna will be succeeding John Lewis, who will be retiring at the end of August after a “remarkable” 20 years of dedicated service to the community.

Webb brings more than nine years of experience working with Oregon City to her new role. She began her journey with the City as a project engineer, where her exceptional skills and dedication quickly propelled her to the position of senior project engineer. Most recently, Webb has served as the City Engineer, where she has been instrumental in leading key projects and initiatives that City officials say have significantly contributed to the growth and development of Oregon City.

City Manager Tony Konkol expressed his enthusiasm for Dayna's new role, stating, "We are thrilled to have Dayna Webb step into the position of Public Works Director. Her extensive experience and proven leadership within our organization make her the perfect fit for this role. We are confident that Dayna will continue to build on the strong foundation laid by John Lewis and lead our public works department with vision and integrity."

Konkol went on to say that Webb's tenure with Oregon City has been marked by her commitment to excellence and her proactive approach to addressing the community's needs. Her leadership has been crucial in numerous infrastructure projects, including the enhancement of the city's transportation network, water and wastewater systems and public facilities. Dayna's collaborative style and dedication to sustainable development have earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and community members alike.

In her new role as Public Works Director, Dayna will oversee the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the City's infrastructure. She will continue to focus on delivering high-quality public works services that ensure the safety, sustainability and prosperity of Oregon City.

"I am honored and excited to take on the role of Public Works Director," said Webb. "I look forward to continue working with the talented team at Oregon City and our community to build on our successes and address the challenges ahead. Together, we will collaborate to enhance the quality of life for all our residents."

The City of Oregon City extends its heartfelt gratitude to John Lewis for his two decades of dedicated service and significant contributions. His leadership has left a lasting legacy, and we wish him all the best in his retirement. 
 

• 2024 USA Softball Fastpitch 10B/12B Western National Championships run from July 27 to August 4 at the Wallace Marine Park ballfields
• Competition play begins Monday at 8 a.m. and runs throughout the day and evening. The last scheduled game begins at 8 p.m. Sunday, August 3. Spectator admission is free. 

Salem, Ore. – Almost 900 players on 59 softball teams, along with thousands of their fans and supporters, are converging on Salem this week for the 2024 USA Softball Fastpitch 10B/12B Western National Championships at Wallace Marine Park.

Teams are coming from all over the western US including California, Colorado, Idaho, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington. California is sending the largest number of teams. Oregon has five teams in the mix.

All the teams have competed in lower-level tournaments to qualify. 

“USA Softball is one of the few associations left that make you play in their tournaments before coming to a national,” said Bill Powers, tournament director for the City of Salem. 

Opening ceremonies start at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, July 28, at the Rotary | Gerry Frank Amphitheater. 

Check-in at Wallace will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Skills games in hitting, throwing and home runs are also planned. The No. 1 hitter from each team will compete in a home run derby Wednesday, July 31, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Competition play begins at 8 a.m. Monday, July 29, and continues through the week. Games are scheduled all day and through the evening. The last scheduled game is at 8 p.m. Sunday, August 3.

For most of the players, this is their first national tournament. In addition to the players, the tournament is expected to bring as many as 4,000 family members and supporters. 

“We haven’t had a tournament this size in Salem in 15 years,” said Powers. The event is one of the biggest USA Softball tournaments in the nation.

Weekend activities for the tournament overlap with Hoopla scheduling, so hotels, restaurants and nearby streets may have larger crowds than usual. Economic impact of the softball tournament is estimated at $7 million to $10 million. 

# # #

Salem, Ore - The City of Salem has reopened 2^nd Street NW after extensive improvements from Wallace Road NW to Gerth Avenue NW. 

Plans to update this corridor began in 2010 with the design and construction of 2^nd Street NW from Gerth Avenue NW to Rosemont Avenue NW. After nearly 15 years, residents and City staff are excited about the completed street and the revitalization of the West Salem neighborhood and business district. A notable achievement of this project was finishing the connection of 2^nd Street NW from Murlark Avenue NW to Patterson Avenue NW, providing a continuous connection from Wallace Road NW to Rosemont Avenue NW. This crucial link has been a key objective for the City and addresses a long-standing barrier to efficient travel in the area.

The $6.1 million project, funded by the West Salem Urban Renewal Area, was completed in two phases when construction began in 2023.

• Phase 1 construction of the 2nd Street NW improvement project covered the segment of roadway from Wallace Road NW to Patterson Avenue NW and was completed in the winter of 2023.
• Phase 2 construction, which will be wrapping up the end of July, included improvements to 2nd Street NW from Patterson Avenue NW through to Gerth Avenue NW.

Project Accomplishments

The scope of work included:

• significant upgrades to utilities, 
• addition of new sidewalks,
• landscaping and street lighting, 
• curbs and new pavement,
• bike and pedestrian street improvements. 

The City of Salem would like to thank the West Salem businesses and residents for their patience and collaboration in the planning, design, and construction of this street improvement. We hope it’s an investment that the community can be proud of and one that fosters a more pedestrian and bike-friendly environment, creates a walkable neighborhood feel, and builds a safer, more vibrant community for all West Salem residents and visitors.

Salem, Ore. – Salem has been awarded a national NOVOGRADAC award for Residential Development that Best Exemplifies Major Community Impact for the adaptive reuse of Yaquina Hall using historic tax credits.

Yaquina Hall, located at 2720 B Street NE, was built in 1947 and formerly served as an Oregon State Hospital Nursing building. The restored building reopened in 2023 as a 52-unit supportive housing development designed to address the needs of vulnerable populations, including those with serious and persistent mental illness. Yaquina Hall is managed by the Salem Housing Authority and the apartments are subsidized through project-based vouchers, with residents paying 30% of their income for rent. 

“My goal is a home for every neighbor, and the completion of Yaquina Hall moves us towards that,” said Salem Mayor Chris Hoy. “These units, and the services that come with them, are a lifeline to those in our community experiencing significant challenges finding stability and a home,” said Salem Mayor Chris Hoy.

Yaquina Hall is on the National Register of Historic Places. Salem’s project prioritized preserving and revitalizing as many historic elements of the building as possible. As part of the project, windows were replaced with those that are energy-efficient and sound resistant, as well as met the National Park Standards for historic rehabilitation. Financing for the project included $2.8 million in historic tax credits and was a crucial piece for funding the project.  

“We are thrilled Yaquina Hall was chosen for this prestigious national award. It’s rare for projects to receive national attention. It speaks to the impact historic preservation can have when repurposing buildings to meet a community need!” said Jessica Blakely, Salem Housing Authority.

The award will be presented to Salem’s Community Planning and Development Director, Kristin Retherford and Salem Housing Authority’s Nicole Utz and Jessica Blakely at the National 2024 Historic Tax Credit Conference in Kansas City in October.

# # #

Salem, Ore. — The City of Salem is warning drivers who use D Street NE that the road will be closed in both directions between Capitol Street NE and 14^th Street NE at the Union Pacific railroad crossing beginning Wednesday, July 31, 2024, from 6 p.m. to Thursday, August 1, 2024, at 1 p.m. The closure is necessary to make railroad crossing repairs at the intersection. Traffic will be detoured in both directions as construction is taking place. 

Location: D Street NE closed to traffic between Capitol Street NE and 14^th Street NE, Salem, OR.

Date and Time: Wednesday, July 31, from 6 p.m. to Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, to 1 p.m.

Affected Areas: The D Street NE road closure will include travel lanes, sidewalks, and parking spaces near the train tracks in the construction zone.

Caution: Drivers are urged to be cautious while traveling, follow all signage, and watch for workers in the area.

Please continue to monitor the Current Road Conditions Map on the City of Salem website to receive up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem.  For additional information, please contact the City of Salem at 503-588-6211 or vice@cityofsalem.net">service@cityofsalem.net.

-The map that was attached to this release did not show the correct street closures.-

Salem, Ore. — Hoopla will bring more than 1,000 teams, 5,000 participants, and 1,000 volunteers to the streets of Salem. Athletes of all skills and ages will lace up their sneakers and compete against the backdrop of the Oregon State Capitol grounds in downtown Salem. Go to http://oregonhoopla.com to learn more.

On Monday, July 22, several road closures will begin and may impact travel around the Oregon State Capital Complex. 

Temporary Road Closures Include

Beginning Monday, July 22, at 6 p.m. through Sunday, July 28, at 9 p.m., the following streets near the State Capitol will be closed as courts are set up for the basketball tournament:

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

From Thursday, July 25, at 6 p.m., to Sunday, July 28, at 9 p.m., the following streets will be closed for the tournament:

• Cottage Street NE between State Street and Chemeketa Street NE
• Court Street NE between 12th Street NE and Church Street NE
• Winter St NE between Court Street NE and Chemeketa Street NE
• Capitol St NE between Court Street NE and Chemeketa Street NE

All streets will be reopened by Sunday, July 28, at 9 p.m. Drivers traveling through the area should find alternative routes during the event. For a full schedule of events, visit oregonhoopla.com/week/events.

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver is seeking volunteers to serve on its Transportation and Mobility Commission. Applications must be submitted on or before Aug. 20.

The volunteer Transportation and Mobility Commission is an 11-member commission that provides advice to Vancouver City Council, the City manager and City staff on a variety of transportation and mobility-related projects, programs and policies. It also provides ongoing feedback and guidance on the implementation of citywide transportation policy and the City’s Transportation System Plan.

All candidates for this recruitment must live within Vancouver city limits. This recruitment is for a mid-term appointment, with a term ending Dec. 31, 2025. The City is specifically seeking people who drive as their primary mode of transportation. 

Qualified applicants will be interviewed by City councilmembers on a date to be determined. Applicants who are not appointed through this process may be considered for future Transportation and Mobility Commission vacancies for up to one year from the date of their application submission. 

Commissioners bring a range of interests and lived and professional experiences to the Commission, including members with different primary modes of transportation, e.g., bike, bus or car. The Transportation and Mobility Commission meets at 4 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month and meetings are currently held as a hybrid of in-person and remote participation. 

To apply online, visit www.cityofvancouver.us/boards. Printed applications, including in other languages and formats, can be requested by contacting the Boards and Commissions Coordinator in the City Manager’s Office by mail at P.O. Box 1995, Vancouver, WA 98668-1995, by email at c_coordinator@cityofvancouver.us">bc_coordinator@cityofvancouver.us or by calling 360-487-8600.

More information about the Transportation and Mobility Commission, including links to meeting agendas and minutes, is available online at https://www.cityofvancouver.us/government/boards.

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City of Woodburn Refers Ballot Measure to November Ballot

Measure Would Fund Construction of Woodburn Community Center

Woodburn, OR – Monday night, the Woodburn City Council unanimously voted to refer a bond measure to voters for the November ballot to fund transforming the current Aquatic Center into a full-service community center. 

“Our decision today to refer the Community Center bond measure to voters is an exciting culmination of years of work to design a full-service community center that will better serve our residents for recreation and events,” said Woodburn Mayor Frank Lonergan. 

The Woodburn Community Center project began in 2008, when the City Council conducted a community center feasibility study. Following the economic downturn at the time, the concept was put on pause until 2017, when the City Council revisited the idea and began to update the 2008 study. Through a multiyear process working to obtain funds through the Oregon Legislature, the City ultimately secured $15 million in matching funds from the state that will only be available if the project is fully funded by spring 2025. The City has committed an additional $5 million, ultimately reducing the overall cost of the bond to taxpayers by $20 million. The bond referred to voters by the City Council is for $40 million. 

“Woodburn is a wonderful place to live, but our diverse community is growing and we need to be forward-thinking about planning for our future,” said Anthony Veliz, Community Center Citizen Advisory Committee member and local small business owner. “I’ve long been involved with helping to bring the Woodburn Community Center to life because I think it will be a multigenerational, multicultural, and multilingual hub for our community.”

First constructed in 1948, Woodburn’s original outdoor pool was rebuilt into the current Woodburn Aquatic Center in 1995. As Woodburn’s population and needs expand, it has become clear that the aging facility, along with neighboring Settlemier Park, falls short of meeting the community’s growing needs – including accessibility requirements.

The upgraded and expanded Center would include: 

• An event space and a community multi-purpose room with a commercial kitchen to host large events
• A drop-in childcare center for people using the facility and space for after-school and summer programming
• ADA accessibility upgrades to the Center and Settlemier Park
• A two-court gymnasium for youth and adult sports leagues including basketball, pickleball, volleyball and other court sports
• The addition of a warm-water pool that would be more accessible for seniors and people with disabilities and available for family recreation, swim lessons, therapy and exercise classes
• Repairs and improvements to the existing lap pool
• Weights, cardio and exercise facilities that will provide expanded health and wellness opportunities including fitness, cardio and weight equipment, and class space
• An indoor walking and jogging track that can be used year-round for youth and adult fitness programs and exercise
• A new universally inclusive playground in Settlemier Park, tennis courts, outdoor sports courts, a picnic shelter, and added pathways

If passed, the estimated annual tax rate would be approximately $0.99 per $1,000 of assessed property value, or $15 per month for the average homeowner in Woodburn. If the measure does not pass, the community center would not be constructed and taxes would not increase.

Voters in the City of Woodburn will see this measure on their ballot for the November 5, 2024 election. 

City crews on Thursday afternoon responded to, and stopped, a sewage release from a maintenance hole to the playground of Riverdale Grade School at 11733 S Bergman St.

The playground is closed to protect the public and to allow the school to clean the site. The school has posted the closure notice to its website, and City crews have posted advisory signs in the area.

Crews estimate about 4,000 gallons overflowed to the ground. They stopped the release within an hour of responding, and cleared out the clogged sewer line. The cause is under investigation. 

Environmental Services reminds the public that most sewage releases are preventable. The most common causes of sewage overflows are pipes clogged with household debris such as cooking grease that are sent down kitchen drains or wet wipes that are flushed. Both belong in the trash, not down the drain. Tree roots are another common cause. 

Environmental Services advises the public to follow these tips to prevent clogs and overflows in homes and businesses and to prevent sewage releases:

• Only flush human waste and toilet paper (wet wipes are NOT flushable).
• Never pour grease down drains: Collect grease, oil, and fat in a can and then into the garbage. Grease that is liquid when poured down drains will become solid once in pipes.
• Don’t put anything down storm drains, which are intended for rainfall only. 

If you experience or see a sewer overflow, contact the City’s hotline any hour of the day at 503-823-1700.  

About Environmental Services
Environmental Services - the City of Portland’s sewer and stormwater utility - protects public health and environment by collecting and recovering resources from the city’s wastewater, managing stormwater, and restoring and protecting Portland’s rivers, streams, and watersheds. Portland.gov/bes/news. 

City crews on Thursday afternoon responded to, and stopped, a sewage release from a maintenance hole to the playground of Riverdale Grade School at 11733 S Bergman St.

The playground is closed to protect the public and to allow the school to clean the site. The school has posted the closure notice to its website, and City crews have posted advisory signs in the area.

Crews estimate about 4,000 gallons overflowed to the ground. They stopped the release within an hour of responding, and cleared out the clogged sewer line. The cause is under investigation. 

Environmental Services reminds the public that most sewage releases are preventable. The most common causes of sewage overflows are pipes clogged with household debris such as cooking grease that are sent down kitchen drains or wet wipes that are flushed. Both belong in the trash, not down the drain. Tree roots are another common cause. 

Environmental Services advises the public to follow these tips to prevent clogs and overflows in homes and businesses and to prevent sewage releases:

• Only flush human waste and toilet paper (wet wipes are NOT flushable).
• Never pour grease down drains: Collect grease, oil, and fat in a can and then into the garbage. Grease that is liquid when poured down drains will become solid once in pipes.
• Don’t put anything down storm drains, which are intended for rainfall only. 

If you experience or see a sewer overflow, contact the City’s hotline any hour of the day at 503-823-1700.  

About Environmental Services
Environmental Services - the City of Portland’s sewer and stormwater utility - protects public health and environment by collecting and recovering resources from the city’s wastewater, managing stormwater, and restoring and protecting Portland’s rivers, streams, and watersheds. Portland.gov/bes/news. 

UPDATE: Rahnique Jackson Sentenced to Life in Prison for the Stabbing Death of Colin Smith

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that a Multnomah County Circuit Court judge sentenced Rahnique Usef Jackson, 25, to life in prison for the stabbing death of Colin Smith, 32, in the Buckman neighborhood in July 2023. Jackson will be eligible for parole consideration after 25 years. 

Trial

Senior Deputy District Attorney Jeff Auxier and Deputy District Attorney Branden Meadows handled prosecution for the state. A trial took place in front of Judge Shelley Russell from July 15-22, 2024. The 12-person jury delivered a unanimous verdict on July 22, finding Jackson guilty of:

• One count of Murder in the Second Degree
• One count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon
• One count of Bias Crime in the Second Degree

Sentencing

Sentencing took place on July 26, 2024. Judge Russell sentenced Jackson to 364 days (the maximum amount allowed) for the Bias Crime charge, with a consecutive life sentence (with the possibility of parole after 25 years) for the Murder 2 and Unlawful Use of a Weapon charge. 

The DA’s Office recognizes the tremendous impact this case has had on Mr. Smith’s family, friends, coworkers, and the community. Prosecutors are pleased to have reached this swift resolution and hope that it allows for some peace and closure for all who knew and loved Mr. Smith. The DA’s Office would like to thank all of the family and friends of Mr. Smith who testified; PPB Detective Brad Clifton for his hard work and professionalism; and Bias Crimes Investigator Brianna Ranck for her work on this case.

###

Original Message (7/13/2023)

DA Mike Schmidt Announces Grand Jury Indictment of Rahnique Jackson in Stabbing Death of Colin Smith

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that a grand jury indicted Rahnique Usef Jackson, 24, on three charges relating to the recent stabbing death of Colin Smith, 32, in the Buckman neighborhood:

1. Murder in the Second Degree
2. Unlawful Use of a Weapon
3. Bias Crime in the Second Degree

On July 2 at 1:49 a.m., Portland Police Central Precinct officers were dispatched to a report that someone was stabbed in the 1400 block of Southeast 12th Avenue. When they arrived, they located an adult male deceased at the scene. The victim was later identified as Colin Smith, and the medical examiner determined he died of homicide by stabbing. The suspect, Jackson, fled the scene and was arrested by members of the U.S. Marshals Service on July 7. 

Jackson is scheduled to be arraigned on July 18, at which time he will enter a plea. Senior Deputy District Attorney Jeff Auxier and Deputy District Attorney Branden Meadows are the prosecutors assigned to this case.  

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

###

UPDATE: Donna Morriss Pleads Guilty, Sentenced to 156 Months in Prison for Burglary and Identity Theft Crimes

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that a Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge sentenced Donna Marie Morriss, 47, to 156 months in prison after she pled guilty to multiple charges from incidents that took place between 2021 and 2024. 

Upon review of the evidence, it was determined that Morriss specifically targets vulnerable victims, including elderly and disabled adults, asking them to deposit bogus checks into their accounts and then withdraw cash for her. She also tried to establish accounts with their stolen information.

Deputy District Attorney Owen Yeates represented the state in this case, which resulted in a negotiated plea agreement with the defendant and her counsel to resolve numerous burglary and identity theft cases. 

Judge Eric Bergstrom accepted the plea on July 25, 2024, and sentenced Morriss as follows: 

• 36 months for court case 21CR32399 – one count of Burglary in the First Degree, one count of Felony Computer Crime, and four counts of Aggravated Identity Theft. 
• 45 months consecutive for court case 24CR07249 – one count of Burglary in the First Degree.
• 36 months consecutive for court case 24CR01687 – one count of Burglary in the First Degree and two counts of Felony Computer Crime.
• 39 months consecutive for court case 23CR44103 – one count of Aggravated ID Theft and one count of Felony Computer Crime.
• Additional convictions included one count of Burglary in the First Degree (24CR37335) and one count of Felony Computer Crime (23CR40408). These convictions resulted in concurrent prison sentences.

Morriss has been ordered to pay more than $5,000 in restitution, and she has agreed to pay additional restitution to other victims in the cases covered by the plea agreement. She will serve three years of post-prison supervision.

Morriss is currently in custody in Multnomah County and will be transported to the Oregon Department of Corrections to serve her sentence.  

The DA’s Office thanks the many partners who assisted with these cases, in particular officers and detectives with the Portland Police Bureau and investigators with Multnomah County Adult Protective Services. The DA’s Office also wishes to thank the individuals who contacted the office following the previous call for additional witnesses/victims to come forward; several cases that resolved with this plea agreement were the result of those individuals coming forward.

###
 

Original Message (4/29/24)

Suspect in Numerous Identity Thefts and Forgeries Arrested; DA's Office Seeking Additional Victims (Photo)

April 29, 2024

A suspect in various identity thefts and forgeries over the course of the past few years has been arrested, and the DA’s office is asking other victims to come forward. 

Donna Marie Morriss, 47, has been indicted on four separate cases by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office (MCDA) totaling 46 charges, including 15 counts of Aggravated Identity Theft, nine counts of Felony Computer Crime, eight counts of Forgery in the First Degree, four counts of Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card, and four counts of Theft in the First Degree. She was arrested by Portland Police on an outstanding warrant on April 3, 2024, and is currently in custody at the Multnomah County Detention Center.

The four indicted cases involved key information provided to MCDA by Multnomah County Adult Protective Services, which investigates allegations of abuse, self-neglect, and financial exploitation of seniors and people with disabilities. A number of the indicted charges are supported by allegations that the victims were vulnerable. Victims who are vulnerable include the elderly and disabled adults. 

Investigators believe there may be additional victims. As further investigation is underway, investigators encourage anyone who believes they may have been a victim of Morriss’ to email damailbox@mcda.us, using the subject line Donna Morriss. 

MCDA thanks the many partners who are assisting with these cases, including the Portland Police Bureau, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, Multnomah County Adult Protective Services, Rivermark Community Credit Union, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. 

Morriss is only accused of committing a crime. She is innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. 

###

DALLAS (OR) – Michelle Nadine Ray, 47, was sentenced to a total of nine years in prison (108 months) after pleading guilty to 153 counts of mail theft and related charges including aggravated theft, possession of methamphetamine, and identity theft. The case involved separately named and identified victims in Polk and Marion Counties.

Ray, of Salem, was sentenced by Polk County Circuit Judge Norm Hill according to Oregon’s repeat property offender law for persons with an extended history of convictions for property related crimes. The sentence also took into account the high number of victims as well and that the defendant was on pre-trial release from other Oregon counties when the crimes were committed. Ray will be required to serve 36 months of Post-Prison Supervision upon her release.

Polk County District Attorney Aaron Felton commented, “Mail and identity theft can be devastating to the victim’s financial well-being and peace of mind. I am grateful for the thorough and aggressive investigation of the law enforcement agencies in this matter and that Ms. Ray took responsibility for her actions.”

The case was investigated by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and the Oregon State Police. It was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Garrett Lewellen of the Polk County District Attorney’s Office.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Deschutes County, Oregon sex offender with a prior felony conviction for encouraging child sex abuse was sentenced to federal prison today after he requested a sexually explicit image online from an individual he thought was a 14-year-old girl.

Roger Clint Lee Vanwormer, 30, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison and a life term of supervised release.

According to court documents, while on supervision and wearing an ankle monitor, Vanwormer requested a sexually explicit image online from an individual he thought was a 14-year-old girl. Vanwormer further engaged in explicit discussions with the purported minor and arranged to meet. On July 27, 2021, Vanwormer was arrested in Bend when he showed up at the arranged meeting location.

On February 17, 2022, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a three-count indictment charging Vanwormer with attempted sexual exploitation of a child, attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, and commission of a felony involving a minor by a registered sex offender. Vanwormer pleaded guilty to one count of attempted sexual exploitation of a child.

This case was investigated by the Bend Police Department with assistance from the FBI. It was prosecuted by Jeffrey S. Sweet, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at (503) 224-4181 or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

###

PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College alum Christopher Bryde will compete in the Vancouver Whistler 2025 Invictus Games this winter. Bryde recently earned five medals at the U.S. Marine Corps trials, qualifying in skiing, wheelchair rugby, rowing, and swimming events. 

Invictus organizers anticipate more than 500 competitors from over 20 nations to attend and compete in adaptive sports, including the new winter sports. Bryde is now training in London, England for the games while studying for his doctorate in English Language and Literature at St. Mary’s University Twickenham. At St. Mary’s, Bryde has been training for athletic competitions since 2021, with the goal of getting into the Invictus Games.

A devotee to strong social ties and outdoor activities for physical and mental health, the 36-year-old went to high school in Northeast Portland before he served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2007 to 2012 before being medically retired. 

“I enrolled at PCC, and have been a student ever since,” said Bryde, who earned associate degrees in Science and General Studies with a focus on Creative Writing. “Even after graduating in 2019, I have still taken some classes remotely when I have had extra time.”

While at PCC, Bryde pitched a documentary, "The Forgotten Battalion," which was filmed in Tillamook County. It focused on the aftereffects of war and his unit, which has the highest suicide rate of any unit in the military. 

“A large part of the reason I have trained so hard for the Invictus Games in the first place is to show other veterans and people who struggle with suicidal ideation not to give up and to strive to do more and do better,” explained Bryde. 

He was an Infantry Machine Gunner, serving with the Second Battalion Seventh Marines in Afghanistan (2008) on an early mission to train the Afghan National Police. After being deployed for seven months, his gun truck ran over an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). As a result, he spent four years in recovery at Brooke Army Medical Center in Texas.

“I was the only survivor,” he said. “I suffered extreme trauma to both of my legs, including third and fourth degree burns, which resulted in my left leg being amputated at the military hospital in 2011, and my right leg years later at OHSU after failed limb salvage.”

When he returned to Portland and enrolled at PCC, he credits his instructors for providing the support he needed to readjust to civilian life and cope with his new abilities.

“They helped keep me going during my struggles and were vital to my success at PCC,” he said. “I had a very difficult time as I studied while having multiple surgeries and recoveries, including amputation of my left leg and becoming a double amputee. I also struggled with dyslexia, dysgraphia, chronic pain, PTSD, and chronic depression.”

In his final year at PCC, he utilized the college's Study Abroad Program to further explore math and statistics. This led him to London, where he had researched different universities and decided that St. Mary’s fit his aspirations. Bryde, who founded a fishing society there, applied for and was accepted into the university’s bachelor's degree program in Creative and Professional Writing.

“I always wanted to be a writer, and my experience taking Karen Embry and Elizabeth Knight’s writing and poetry classes helped encourage me to go for it,” said Bryde, who is publishing his first novel this year about his experiences in Afghanistan and his recovery. “They were both very positive and supportive in my advancement as a writer.”

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

Visit PCC news on the web at http://news.pcc.edu/

The Centennial School District Governing Board will participate in a retreat on Thursday, August 1, 2024, from 8:45am to 3:00pm. Board members and key staff will attend in-person at CSD's District Office - 18135 SE Brooklyn St., Portland, OR 97236.

The public and guests will join virtually via the Zoom app.

To join virtually, please click on the link below.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89420162478?pwd=RFBXSEtOcFVaNlZOUHloZkpaWUszQT09
Passcode: 751167

To join by telephone, dial one of the numbers below then follow the prompts.
+1 669 444 9171  OR +1 669 900 9128

Webinar ID: 894 2016 2478
Passcode: 751167

DATE: Monday, July 29, 2024

TIME: 5:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Hockinson Community Center and via Zoom (link on website: www.hocksd.org)

ADDRESS: 15916 NE 182nd Ave, Brush Prairie, WA 98606

DATE: July 31 2024

TIME: Budget Meeting 5:30, Regular Meeting 6:00

LOCATION: Hockinson Community Center 

ADDRESS: 15916 NE 159th St. Brush Prairie WA 98606

Last week, Washougal High School (WHS) student leaders were recognized with the 2024 Jostens Gold Tier School of Distinction Award for their work to improve school climate and culture. Riley Vaughan, Jude Maddox, Gavin Johnson, Mackenzie Olkowski, and WHS teachers Kyla Ritchey and Tami Grant accepted the award at the Jostens Renaissance Global Conference in Orlando, Florida on July 18, 2024.

The Jostens Renaissance School of Distinction Award celebrates schools excelling in fostering a supportive and engaging school environment. Schools can apply for one of three levels of distinction: silver, gold, or platinum. Schools must meet specific criteria to qualify for the Gold Tier level, including implementing the Renaissance Program framework for building a positive school culture.

“Positive school culture brings better attendance, higher test scores, and overall makes school a place where you want to be rather than where you have to be,” said Maddox, 12th grade student leader at Washougal High School. “We’re a school that recognizes you for doing the things you should do and rewards you for going above and beyond. I think that encourages people to do what they’re supposed to do.”

For the first time this year, student leaders at the high school organized a Renaissance Rally to recognize students for academic and extracurricular achievements. Student leaders measured the success of their efforts to improve school culture by using data from the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) report card and interviewing students and staff. 

“We worked on planning the Renaissance Rally for a good two months,” said Vaughan, 12th grade WHS student. “We plan on doing that a lot more this next school year and I think kids are ready for it.” 

The leadership class also organizes the annual Stuff the Bus community fundraiser and a handful of other initiatives to promote a sense of belonging at school. “Stuff the Bus is when everyone comes together as a family to help out our community and brings us all closer,” said Olkowski, 11th grade student at Washougal High School.

Student leaders also have a voice in making decisions that impact school culture by participating in monthly Student Voice Council meetings with Washougal High School Principal Mark Castle. Student leaders also serve as representatives to the Washougal School Board to weigh in on districtwide decisions.

"Since 2020, our student leadership group has been implementing Renaissance program ideas to improve climate and culture at our school. This was our first year to apply for the award, and we're all very excited that we're being recognized as a Gold Tier school," said Ritchey, Associated Student Body teacher at WHS.

In winter 2023, Washougal High School was also one of three schools to win the nationwide Jostens Culture Challenge for leading an initiative to express appreciation for Washougal school bus drivers. The group of students gave cups of hot chocolate, with motivational messages written on them, to bus drivers at the school.

Washougal School District knows, nurtures, and challenges all students to rise. Learn more about Washougal School District at www.washougal.k12.wa.us.

Two Washougal High School students, Rilen Snethen and Boaz Brooks, represented the Seattle Sounders FC at the 2024 Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Game on Tuesday, July 23 at the Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. On July 24, the students will also be recognized on-field before the MLS All-Star Game presented by Target on July 24 at 8 pm Eastern Time.

The Sounders selected Rilen and Boaz from players around the state for this prestigious opportunity.

Overall, 52 Unified team members compete and represent 26 Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs at the event. The teams, composed of Special Olympics athletes and Unified partners, were outfitted in authentic uniforms provided by Adidas. MLS Greats served as celebrity coaches for the game. 

At Washougal High School, Rilen and Boaz were invited to a school event to announce their selection. The two students, along with Unified Soccer Coach David Williams, were presented with jerseys from the Sounders at the event. Williams accompanied the pair to the event in Ohio this summer. 

The Unified Sports program in Washougal School District was founded in 2015. Unified Sports brings together students with and without disabilities to shape a more inclusive athletic environment for all student athletes. The program operates on core values of acceptance, community, and friendship. Washougal School District offers Unified soccer and basketball programs at Washougal High School. Learn more about Washougal School District at www.washougal.k12.wa.us.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

BEND, OR — Leath Tonino has been officially selected as the winner of the 10th annual Waterston Desert Writing Prize by guest judge and acclaimed Law and Order actor Sam Waterston.

Tonino’s winning submission, "Limbo Wilds: A Journey into the Wilderness Study Areas of the Desert,” captures a deep sense of introspection and urgency regarding wilderness conservation. Throughout the piece, the protagonist navigates conflicting desires between enjoying Utah’s Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and advocating for its protection in the face of legislative challenges.

The 10^th annual Waterston Desert Writing Prize ceremony celebrating Tonino and featuring author Tucker Malarkey will take place at the High Desert Museum on September 26, 2024. For tickets to the event, visit: highdesertmuseum.org/waterston-prize.

Malarkey, a nationally bestselling author known for critically acclaimed novels like An Obvious Enchantment and Resurrection, has ventured into nonfiction with Stronghold, a compelling narrative detailing one man's quest to preserve salmon habitats in both the U.S. and Russia. Stronghold received accolades as an editor's pick from prestigious publications including The New York Times, National Book Review, Outside and Forbes.

Tonino, a full-time freelance writer from Colorado, emphasizes that true desert literacy transcends mere knowledge of a place. Rather, he says that he embraces the complexities and mysteries of our environment. With a rich background in creative nonfiction, Tonino has contributed over 150 pieces to publications like Outside, Men’s Journal and High Country News, and is the author of several essay collections and a forthcoming book of nature poems.

Guest judge Sam Waterston, brother of Prize founder Ellen Waterston, called the piece “wonderfully original” in his comments, noting, “Like other little-visited and vulnerable parts of the planet, to those who don’t already know the answer, ‘Why the desert?’ can be the end of the conversation…the writer knows how to make it the beginning—how to invite us in.”

"We are honored to welcome our outstanding winner Leath Tonino and nationally bestselling author Tucker Malarkey to this year’s Waterston Desert Writing Prize ceremony," said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. "Their passionate exploration of the natural world aligns perfectly with the Prize’s mission to celebrate and elevate desert landscapes through the power of literary nonfiction."

The two finalists for this year’s Prize are Paige Buffington of Gallup, New Mexico and Charles Hood of Palmdale, Calif.

Buffington (Navajo) received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in creative writing from the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico in 2013 and a Master of Fine Arts with a focus in poetry in 2015. She’s won various writing awards for her poems.

Hood has spent his career working and living in the Mojave Desert and has won numerous awards for his poetry and nonfiction work. This is his fourth time as a Waterston Prize finalist.

The Waterston Desert Writing Prize, established in 2014 by author Ellen Waterston, honors literary nonfiction that celebrates desert landscapes. As the winner of this year’s prize, Tonino will receive a $3,000 cash award, a writing residency at Playa in Summer Lake, Oregon, and the reading and reception at the High Desert Museum on September 26, 2024. 

“The combination of Prize winner Leath Tonino, renowned author Tucker Malarkey, and my accomplished and wonderful actor brother Sam Waterston makes for a special 10th anniversary 2024 Awards ceremony. Sincere thanks to all three for their help in promoting the Prize and the literary arts in general,” said Prize founder Ellen Waterston. “To see how the Waterston Desert Writing Prize has evolved in 10 years couldn’t be more exciting.” 

In 2020, the High Desert Museum—which has long hosted events for the Prize—adopted the program. The mission and goals of the Prize complement those of the High Desert Museum, emphasizing the importance of protecting deserts and creating important conversations about the issues affecting them.

To learn more about the Waterston Desert Writing Prize and to purchase your tickets to the Waterston Desert Writing Prize Ceremony visit: highdesertmuseum.org/waterston-prize. The Waterston Desert Writing Prize is possible with support from The Source Weekly. 

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

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

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Portland, OR – July 26, 2024 – ALS Northwest is thrilled to announce a special event to commemorate the 10-year anniversary of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, the viral sensation that captivated the world and propelled ALS research forward. In August of 2014, millions of people around the world doused themselves with ice water and challenged their friends and family in support of people living with ALS. "We are incredibly excited to celebrate the accomplishments of our organization and the overwhelming support we received from the Ice Bucket Challenge back in 2014," said Lance Christian, Executive Director of ALS Northwest. "This viral event helped make significant strides in ALS research over the past decade." 

This no-cost community gathering is open to all. Community speakers will reflect on the monumental impact of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, which not only raised awareness but also significantly advanced ALS research. Attendees will have the chance to re-enact the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. People are encouraged to bring chairs, towels, picnic items, and their own buckets.  RSVPs are appreciated and can be made by contacting Amy Easton at amy.easton@alsnorthwest.org or by calling/texting 503-820-4525.

Join us in celebrating this milestone, learning about ongoing ALS research efforts, and having some fun with water and ice! We look forward to seeing you there.

Event Details:
Date: Saturday, August 10, 2024
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Willamette Park, Picnic Area A (6932 S Macadam Ave, Portland, OR 97219)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Portland, ORE, July 25, 2024] — Residents of Oregon and SW Washington are in the middle of a busy wildfire season as the climate crisis threatens to upend more communities. The American Red Cross Cascades Region opened our first shelter in La Pine on June 25^th due to the Darlene 3 Fire and we have not stopped since. We are currently operating in 4 different locations in our region plus we are helping support or neighboring Red Cross regions in Washington, Idaho and Montana. 

“This is part of a nationwide trend where natural disasters are becoming more frequent and intense. In 2023, an estimated 2.5 million were forced from their homes by weather-related disasters— with more than a third displaced for longer than a month,” says Red Cross Cascades CEO Priscilla Fuentes.

The best defense in an emergency is to be prepared and the American Red Cross, Cascades Region advises everyone to get ready now.

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR HOUSEHOLD 

• Build an emergency kit. Stock it with bottled water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and battery-powered radio. Also include medications, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers and emergency contact information. If you have pets or kids, consider packing items for them. 
• Make an evacuation plan.  What will you do if you are separated from your family during an emergency? Where will you go and where will you meet? Know evacuation routes in your community and make sure you have gas in your car. 
• Know how to stay informed.  Watch the local news, follow first responders on social media, check the websites of emergency managers, transportation agencies, and law enforcement to learn how you can receive evacuation orders and evacuate safely.
• Plus, download the free Red Cross Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and more safety tips. Choose whether you want to view the content in English or Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find these and all the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

PAY ATTENTION TO EVACUATION ORDERS:

Level 1-Be Ready

Level 2-Get Set

Level 3-Go Now

• Follow evacuation guidelines set by emergency managers. Level 3 evacuations mean “GO NOW.” Don’t hesitate to leave when instructed.
• If you are elderly or have access and functional limitations, consider leaving during a level 2 “GET SET” evacuation.
• Be aware of road closures so you know how to leave the affected area safely. 
• Make sure you have gas in your car in case you must leave. 
• Bring masks or other devices to help protect you from wildfire smoke.

WHO ARE WE HELPING?

 Everyone is welcome in our shelters, and we are hearing incredible stories like this one from Marc Berry.  Read more HERE.

VOLUNTEER TODAY The Red Cross is seeking new volunteers who are team-oriented and want to make an immediate difference. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to sign up. Free online training will be provided. 

About the American Red Cross: 

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

Vancouver, WA – Evergreen Habitat for Humanity is celebrating the 2^nd Anniversary Sale at the Clark County Habitat Store on Friday, August 2. The Store will be open regular hours on the day of the event, 10am to 6pm.   

This is the one day of the year that everything in the Store will be 50% off. Customers can enjoy free popcorn and purchase shaved ice from Kona Ice for a cool refreshment as they shop! The first 50 customers will receive a $10 gift card to the Store. Currently, the Store is only accepting debit/credit cards for purchases.  

Open to the public, the Clark County Habitat Store sells gently used home furniture, goods, art, lighting, and home building materials such as cabinets, flooring, tools, and more. It is also a donation center for the community to donate their gently used home goods, furniture, and building materials by either dropping off at the donation dock or scheduling a pickup with a flat service fee of $20. On the day of the event, the donation dock will be closed due to high demand within the Store but will reopen the next day. 

Shop the Store that builds homes. All proceeds support Evergreen Habitat’s mission of building affordable homes in Clark County such as the in-progress Washougal home and our nine-home subdivision, Johnson Village.  

About Evergreen Habitat for Humanity: 

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

For more information on how to get involved or to learn more about Evergreen Habitat for Humanity's mission and projects, please visit ehfh.org or contact Leah Middleton at leah@ehfh.org.   

Vancouver, WA. – July 23, 2024 - The Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools is thrilled to announce that Dick Hannah Dealerships will be generously giving $20,000 for two initiatives: our annual Write from the Start (WFTS) School Supply Drive, as well as general support for our students. $10,000 from this gift will be used as a donation match for the WFTS campaign, while the other $10,000 will go towards general support. This remarkable gift ensures that over 11,000 students across 40 schools and programs in our district will start the new school year happy, healthy, and ready to learn. 

Community members are encouraged to contribute by dropping off donation items at any of our designated donation sites. Details of these locations are available on our website, as well as a wish list created by our team. For those who prefer a more convenient option, online giving is also available. 

Thanks to Dick Hannah Dealerships' match, we have the opportunity to maximize the impact on our students' lives and well-being, “We take great pride in helping the community our customers and employees live and work in. We know giving kids the tools they need to succeed is one of the most important factors in determining a successful education,” mentions Matt Berry of Dick Hannah.

We also want to acknowledge our media sponsor KOIN 6 who has for several years helped us spread the word about our annual drive.

We are grateful to be able to start off another school year supporting our youngest community members and their families with the help of our partners, who represent an unwavering contribution to our mission that has changed the lives of many, and will continue to do so. Visit www.writefromthestart.org to learn more and how you can get involved!

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The Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools is an independent, 501(c)3 educational non-profit corporation established in 1988 to support Vancouver Public Schools (VPS). Governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of business, community, and education leaders, the foundation creates opportunities to cultivate and inspire student success. As an educational non-profit entity, the foundation serves students at all 40 VPS schools and programs, providing direct aid to students facing learning barriers due to economic need, as well as financial assistance for learning enrichment and mentoring programs that cannot be funded by the school district. The Foundation for VPS is supported by donations from school employees, parents, students, community members, businesses and foundations.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: 
Billy Henry, Founder & CEO – henry@nwaba.org">bhenry@nwaba.org
Northwest Association for Blind Athletes
703 Broadway, Ste 600 • Vancouver, Washington 98660
Local Phone: 1-360-448.7254 Toll Free: 1-800-880-9837
http://www.nwaba.org
media@nwaba.org

Northwest Association for Blind Athletes Kicks Off Camp Spark for Blind and Visually Impaired Youth

Vancouver, Washington—July 22, 2024—The Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is thrilled to announce the return of our Camp Spark program, and for the first time ever being held at Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) in Vancouver, Washington. This summer camp session is dedicated to Washington youth who are blind or visually impaired. Now in its sixth year, Camp Spark has seen remarkable growth, increasing from 22 campers in 2016 to 35 campers this year. The week-long camp is tailored to meet the unique needs of each camper, offering adapted sports and activities such as tandem biking, swimming, and goalball. Campers are paired with counselors to ensure they are actively learning and developing new skills. Camp Spark also emphasizes social interaction and community, providing campers with opportunities to engage with their peers in exciting and innovative ways in a residential camp setting. This session of Camp Spark ends on Saturday, July 27, 2024.

Camp Spark is a comprehensive overnight sports camp for individuals ages 8 to 16, who are blind and visually impaired. This unique model uses sports, physical activity, and orientation and mobility as a catalyst to encourage leadership, independence, advocacy, and daily living skills that contribute to overall greater quality of life. The campers vary in socioeconomic status, ethnic background, and level of skills and abilities and NWABA offers camp free of charge to youth and their families. 

NWABA will host a total of five additional week-long summer and winter camp sessions in Oregon and Washington in 2024-2025, each with different eligibility requirements, such as age and residence, and will provide different sports opportunities based on the varying seasons.

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

Camp Spark is partially funded by the generosity of our individual donors, foundations, state grants and corporate partners; however, additional support is critically needed to deliver a successful camp. Donations to support Camp Spark can be made online at www.nwaba.org/donate or by mailing a check to PO BOX 61489, Vancouver, WA, 98666. For more information on Northwest Association for Blind Athletes, please contact Billy Henry, CEO & Founder, henry@nwaba.org">bhenry@nwaba.org or 360.448.7254.

About NWABA: 
The mission of Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. A group of students who were visually impaired formed the association in 2007 to ensure that people who are blind were participating in sports and physical activity. Today, NWABA is a rapidly expanding 501(c)(3) charitable organization that delivers more than 5,000 program and service interactions annually to children, youth, adults and military veterans with visual impairments tailored programming which improves self-confidence and self-esteem, promotes independence, creates an inclusive community of supporters, and builds the skills necessary to succeed in all areas of life including school and employment.

For information: http://www.nwaba.org or
Contact: Billy Henry, Founder & CEO, henry@nwaba.org">bhenry@nwaba.org 
Phone:  1-360-448-7254

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Vancouver, WA – 8/3/2024 – Orion Fencing is thrilled to be hosting a Paris Send-Off Party and Foil Walk-n-Roll Tournament, an exciting event dedicated to celebrating and supporting our parafencers as they prepare for the Paralympics in Paris. Join us on Saturday, August 3rd, at 4:00 PM at Orion Fencing in Vancouver, WA, for a memorable evening filled with camaraderie and inspiration.

This special send-off party will honor our incredible athletes including Ellen Geddes PLY heading into her second games as well as sending our support to Byron Branch who is heading to his first.  Other Paralympians will be in attendance as well as other members of the US National Parafencing Team. The event will feature foil fencing competition and opportunities for the community to wish our athletes good luck as they embark on their journey to Paris.

Come out and show your support for these remarkable individuals who represent the pinnacle of dedication and athletic excellence. Let's come together to cheer on our parafencers and celebrate their achievements!

Orion Fencing

13504 NE 84^th St. #109

Vancouver, WA 98682

Get a chance to win concert and event tickets starting today

[SALEM, OR] – What better way to get excited about The Oregon State Fair than by putting on a contest? Starting today, you can enter our Sunny Sweepstakes and get a chance to win two tickets to any of our Pavilion events, like the Hell on Hooves Rodeo, or two tickets to one of our Umpqua Bank Concert Series shows: 

• Friday, August 23 – veteran and country star, Craig Morgan
• Saturday, August 24 – roots reggae group, Steel Pulse
• Monday, August 26 –timeless rock band, The Goo Goo Dolls
• Tuesday, August 27 – rapper, Yung Gravy
• Wednesday, August 28– country singer, Josh Turner
• Thursday, August 29 – premier entertainer, Ludacris
• Friday, August 30 – singer and songwriter, Daya
• Saturday, August 31 – legendary rock band, FOREIGNER
• Monday, September 2 – Winner of “The Voice”, Huntley, with support from Oregon Native Jacquie Roar

We’re even giving away Fair admission tickets, carnival ticket packs, and Parky Like a Rockstar passes, which get you VIP parking for any one day you visit the fair! Enter here starting today. We’ll notify the winners via phone and email.

Ticket information: 

Tickets will ONLY be available for purchase on The Oregon State Fair website and in person at the Fair box office. Thanks to Umpqua Bank, there will be NO service fees.

Sign up for our newsletter here to get the latest fair information. 

Fair links

Tickets: (Fair/Carnival/Concerts/Fast Pass/Parking)  https://oregonstatefair.org/tickets
Newsletter: (latest news and contests)  https://oregonstatefair.org/newsletter

About the Oregon State Fair:
The Oregon State Fair is a public/private entity owned by the people of Oregon. The Fair began in 1861 in Oregon City. In 1862, the Fair moved to the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem, the State Capitol. The Oregon State Fair and Exposition Center hosts thousands of visitors from all over the world each year, with premier concerts, art, culture, rides, agricultural exhibits, and livestock exhibits. Throughout the year, the Fair and Expo Center works with multiple agencies to help facilitate emergency and disaster response needs. For more information, visit oregonstatefair.org or contact us at info@oregonstatefair.org 

While you tune in to watch sports over the next two weeks, consider: The arena is not that different from a workplace. 

SAIF, Oregon’s not-for-profit workers’ comp insurance company, released a series of short videos comparing athletic competition to workplace safety. The videos focus on five key areas of injury prevention, and what we can learn from the world’s best athletes. 

The videos include tips from SAIF safety management consultants, as well as from SAIF policyholder Gallagher Fitness Resources in Salem. Read more about Gallagher Fitness Resources.  

“For athletes, an injury can keep them from competition and everything they’ve been working for,” said Tom Melendy, safety and health supervisor at SAIF. “Getting injured on the job can mean a lengthy recovery and challenges outside of work.” 

Luckily, SAIF has resources at saif.com/sports to prevent injuries in any workplace: 

• Prevent repetitive motion injuries: Whether you’re on the water or at your job
• Proper lifting techniques: Whether you’re lifting weights or lifting boxes
• Hydration: Whether you’re running a race or on the job
• Fall protection: Whether you’re climbing a wall or up high on a job 
• Personal protective equipment: Whether you’re facing an opponent or on the job site

View all five videos, tips, and free safety resources at saif.com/sports. 

Find more information, including additional free safety resources, at saif.com/safetyandhealth.

About SAIF

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

Media Advisory – All Media Are Invited

What: Portland Business District Cleanup, sponsored by Plaid Pantry

When: Wednesday, July 24, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am

Where: 1300 SE Stark St Portland, OR 97214 | Map Link

Event Description: In celebration of National Ice Cream Month, volunteers can indulge their love for ice cream while promoting positive impact on the environment in Portland's Central Eastside. As a thank you, women-owned Ice Queen and community-based Salt & Straw will be sharing free and discounted frozen treats!

Why: Portland's business districts are the heartbeat of our city and keeping them clean is vital to our economy and the environment. Litter poses a significant threat to our community's well-being, affecting the aesthetics and overall health of our streets, neighborhoods, and waterways. SOLVE's mission is to create opportunities for individuals and businesses to give back to their communities and play a critical role in maintaining the beauty and integrity of our city from the harmful effects of trash. Together, we can create a cleaner, more inviting downtown that reflects our pride in the city and care for our community.

Media Crews: Arrive by 8:45 in the grass field in front of Revolution Hall to see approximately 100 volunteers of all ages checking in, collecting their cleanup supplies, receiving a safety speech and event debrief, and then heading out in groups to pick up litter in the surrounding area. The event will run from 9 am to 11 am, with volunteers expected to spread throughout the area.

This event will have plenty of visuals of volunteers picking up litter, making for great community packages, VOs, and VOSOTS.

Available interviewees: 

• Kris Carico, Chief Executive Officer, SOLVE
• Jonathan Polonsky, Chief Executive Officer, Plaid Pantry

Visit the Portland Business District Cleanup webpage on the SOLVE website for more information.

About SOLVE:

SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. You can follow SOLVE on Instagram at @SOLVEinOregon, Facebook at @SOLVEOregon, or at www.solveoregon.org.