On 07-17-17 at about 6:11 PM a 12 year old boy was hit in the crosswalk at Santiam and Geary Streets and the driver failed to stop. On 07-19-17, the driver and vehicle involved in that incident were located, and the vehicle involved, a white Jeep Patriot, is being examined today for evidence. The driver of the Jeep has been identified as Jeanice Rivera, 21, of Lake Oswego. Investigators from the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office are assisting in this investigation. Once the investigation has been completed, the case will be forwarded to the Linn County District Attorney's Office for review and charging considerations. If anyone has additional information pertaining to this incident, please contact Albany Police Detectives at (541)917-7686.

Banks Fire District #13 received notification on July 10th that the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Board of Directors awarded the organization a grant for a Utility Vehicle (UTV) and accessories valued up to $28,963.

Currently, we receive numerous trauma calls to areas with difficult terrain--inaccessible by standard apparatus. This UTV will allow crews to maneuver this terrain, getting to the patient or fire quickly. Time is critical in both patient care and in combating rural fires. Our UTV will be equipped to deal with both scenarios. It will allow the first in crew to stabilize and transport patients or allow the crew to begin fire attack while reinforcing units make their way to the scene.

The Banks Fire District is very honored to be recognized by the Foundations with the award of this grant and excited by the improved service delivery this UTV will provide our District.

ABOUT FIREHOUSE SUBS PUBLIC SAFETY FOUNDATION
In 2005, the Firehouse Subs founders established the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation with the mission of providing funding, life-saving equipment, and educational opportunities to first-responders and public safety organizations. Through the non-profit 501(c)(3), Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has granted more than $28 million to hometown heroes in 46 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada, including more than $116,000 in Oregon.

On July 17th, at 3:33 pm, Beaverton Police Officers responded to 11525 SW 11th Street in Beaverton for a welfare check of 57 year old Katherine McDowell. Officers spoke with Katherine's daughter, who had called for the welfare check, and Katherine' son, Matthew Gutierrez. In the course of the initial investigation, Matthew made statements that he had burned his mother's body in the backyard fire pit. Officers checked the fire pit and saw what were believed to be bones.

Gutierrez was taken into custody, charged with First Degree Abuse of a Corpse, and lodged at the Washington County Jail.

On July 18th, BPD Detectives, with assistance from the Washington County Sheriff's Office Forensics Unit, and the Washington County Medical Examiner's Office served the search warrant at the residence. During the execution of the search warrant, officials have located, and now confirmed, human remains in the fire pit. These remains are believed to be Katherine McDowell.

This investigation is on-going and updates will be provided as new information is available.


Attached Media Files: PressRelease

Corvallis, Ore. -- Benton County Sheriff's Office participated in extra DUII saturation patrol, July 6 through July 10, 2017.

Deputies working the extra patrol conducted 150 traffic stops for traffic violations, issued 16 citations, and responded to five non-injury crashes in Benton County.

During those days, six drivers were arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants. Three were arrested for DUII alcohol, and three for DUII drugs.

Other arrests include one for the Attempt to Elude, two for Possession of a Controlled Substance, two for Driving While Suspended, and five outstanding arrest warrants were served.

Benton County Sheriff's Office's next Saturation Patrol is scheduled for August 2 through 5, 2017. Our office will be targeting drivers under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, and inhalants.

Oregon's DUII enforcement program is committed to reducing the amount of crashes and impaired drivers on our roadways by keeping them off the roadway and arresting them when they choose to drive. For more info on impaired driving, visit www.StopImpairedDriving.com.
XXX


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1505/106182/DUII_saturation_7.17.17.pdf

Attempt to Identify Daytime Burglars

Camas, Washington --

On July 4th, 2017 at 09:30 am, Camas police officers responded to a burglary that just occurred in the 1000 block of NW 35th Ave. The homeowner had interrupted a burglar who entered her home through an unlocked sliding door. While inside the home, the suspect(s) took several items including jewelry and credit cards.

The victim's stolen credit cards were used at the Fisher's Landing Fred Meyer in Vancouver later that morning.

Camas Police have obtained surveillance footage of a male and female suspect using the stolen credit cards, and are asking the public to help identify them.

If you recognize the pictured male and female suspects, please contact Ofc. Steven Forgette of the Camas Police Department at 360-834-4151.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/3902/106252/6.PNG , 2017-07/3902/106252/5.PNG , 2017-07/3902/106252/4.PNG , 2017-07/3902/106252/3.PNG , 2017-07/3902/106252/2.PNG , 2017-07/3902/106252/1.PNG

Please reference CCSO Case # 17-19242

At approximately 4:37 a.m. on Thursday, July 20, 2017, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a report of an armed robbery outside of an apartment in the 2300 block of SE Courtney Rd. in Oak Grove.

Deputies learned that the victim was familiar with the suspect from previous social contacts. The suspect had approached the victim. After a brief encounter, the suspect drew a firearm and stole property from the victim. The suspect then left the scene in a dark-green sport utility vehicle.

The investigation led deputies to find the suspect vehicle in the area of SE 68th Ave. and Rhone St. in Portland.

A search for the suspect by the Portland Police Bureau's Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) led to the arrest of a juvenile teenage suspect by Portland Police. For more information, see PPB's press release on the incident here:

https://www.portlandoregon.gov/police/news/read.cfm?id=68336&ec=3

The firearm believed to have been used by the suspect in the robbery was located by an alert citizen and has been recovered by the police.

The suspect's name is not being released at this time. The suspect has been lodged with juvenile authorities.

Clackamas County Sheriff's Office violent-crimes detectives continue to work on this investigation, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Additional arrests are possible.

ADDITIONAL TIPS SOUGHT

The Sheriff's Office is seeking additional information in this case. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Sheriff's Office Tip Line -- by phone at 503-723-4949 or by using the online email form at https://web3.clackamas.us/contact/tip.jsp . Please reference CCSO Case # 17-19242.

[END]

An Astoria man was arrested outside his Brownsmead residence on the evening of Friday July 14, 2017. The 50-year-old man identified as GREG HOWARD SMITH, born September 7, 1966, was lodged in the Clatsop County Jail on numerous sex abuse and drug related charges. Smith is already a registered sex offender following a 2006 conviction in Columbia County for which he was sentenced to over 6 years in prison for one count each of Sodomy II and Sex Abuse I. At the time of his arrest Smith was in compliance with Oregon's sex offender registration requirements. Smith is known by some local residents as "Greg Tyrone Jesus"; a name he also uses on Facebook.

SMITH's arrest comes after Clatsop County Sheriff's Office Resident Deputy Nathan Baldwin responded to a local hospital in the early morning hours of July 13, 2017 to the report of a 16-year-old male being treated for sexual assault and drug impairment. The victim identified Smith as a friend with whom he spent the evening of July 11, 2017. The victim reported that after Smith provided him alcohol and marijuana he fell asleep in a camp trailer outside the residence. The victim told Baldwin that he awoke in the early morning hours of July 12, 2017 to find Smith engaged in sexual behaviors that eventually lead to physical sex abuse. The hospital reported finding several more substances in the victim's system that he said he did not knowingly ingest.

Further investigation conducted by Baldwin and Detectives lead to the issuance of a search warrant for the camp trailer parked behind Smith's residence located at 42800 Fish Lane. With the assistance of Sheriff's Office K-9 Deputy Scout and Clatsop County Interagency Narcotics Taskforce (CCINT), Deputies contacted Smith outside his residence and executed the search warrant. Smith was taken into custody without incident and several items of evidence supporting the victim's report were seized. Evidence of additional crimes were located at the scene including a firearm. Smith was lodged in the Clatsop County Jail on one count each of Delivery of a Controlled Substance to a Minor, Delivery of Marijuana to a Minor, Providing Alcohol to a Minor, Sex Abuse III, Sodomy I, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Luring a Minor. Additional charges could follow as the analysis of evidence continues.

Smith's arrest marked the end of a busy week for Sheriff's Deputies who assisted CCINT in the successful execution of two unrelated warrants; one earlier the same day and another on Wednesday morning. This case demonstrated the Sheriff's Office's multifaceted approach to law enforcement starting with a Resident Deputy, assisted by the Detectives, working with CCINT, and the use of K-9 Deputy Scout's abilities. Baldwin is one of two Deputies dedicated to specifically serving the Knappa/Svensen, Brownsmead and Westport areas of Clatsop County. Scout is one of two K-9 assets deployed by the Sheriff's Office. The Sheriff's Office currently supervises and staffs one Detective in CCINT and has one Detective assigned to work major felony crimes.

Anyone with information concerning Greg "Jesus" Smith and the crimes he is alleged to have committed is asked to contact Detective J. Ryan Humphrey at 503-325-8635.


Attached Media Files: Greg Howard Smith

On July 14, 2017, deputies from the Clatsop County Sheriff's Office, officers from the Seaside Police Department, and the Cannon Beach K9 team executed a search warrant at the residence at 429 South Holladay Drive, Seaside, Oregon. The search warrant was granted based upon information received and developed through a coordinated drug trafficking and child welfare investigation by the Sheriff's Office, the Seaside Police Department, and Child Protective Services.

With the help of K9 Gunner, Ruben Chavez Gonzales (40) and Heather Marie Gonzales (42), both of Seaside, were found in possession of Methamphetamine, digital scales, and packaging material. Ruben Gonzales and Heather Gonzales were charged with Delivery of Methamphetamine and Child Neglect in the first degree. Both were lodged in the Clatsop County Jail.

The Gonzales' three minor children have occupied the residence, although they were not present when the search warrant was executed. The minors were placed in protective custody with Child Protective Services.

Additional charges may follow as further analysis of evidence is conducted and the investigation continues.


Attached Media Files: K9 Gunner , Heather Gonzales , Ruben Chavez Gonzales

This morning Columbia County Sheriff's deputies recovered the body of a Portland man who had fallen overboard during a fishing outing in the Multnomah Channel near Coon Island.

Deputies responded to the marine call after a 911 call was placed at 0357 hours, reporting a "man overboard." Deputies arrived in the area around 0455 hours and were assisted by the Scappoose Fire Marine Unit and the U.S. Coast Guard. With the help of a U.S. Coast Guard Helicopter, Deputies located the body of Erik Peterson, 49, Portland and pulled him aboard their vessel at 0523 hours. Peterson was pronounced dead at the scene, the victim of apparent drowning. Portland Police assisted with the death notification to next of kin.

Details of the investigation:
Mr. Peterson with two friends and a ten year old juvenile (Child of one of the friends) had planned a fishing trip and set out from Waverly Marina in Portland yesterday afternoon by boat and traveled up the Multnomah Channel to the Coon Island Docks where they anchored up last night around 2130 hours and spent the night on the boat to get an early start to fishing this morning. The plan was that Mr. Peterson was going to get up around 0400 hours and get all the poles and fishing gear set up and then they were going to fishing. Just prior to the 911 call they reported that they heard what sounded like someone falling on the boat and then a splash. They both went to the back of the boat where they observed Mr. Peterson had fallen into the water. They attempted to throw him life vests and a throw device and then lost sight of him. They then called 911 for assistance.

The matter remains under investigation.

On July 18, 2017, at approximately 3:45am, Corvallis Police Department Officers were called to the Subway restaurant at 2479 NW Monroe Ave for a report of a robbery. An unknown male suspect wearing a mask entered the restaurant, presented a handgun to the employee, and then left with an undisclosed amount of cash. The employee was uninjured, and the suspect fled prior to officers arriving.

On July 19th, 2017, at approximately 9:45am, Corvallis Police Department Detectives, with the assistance of the Philomath Police Department, arrested 39 year old Steven Lance Thompson of Corvallis, for Robbery I and Burglary II in connection with the armed robbery of Subway. He was lodged at the Benton County Jail on $125,000 bail. Detectives are continuing to investigate this case and more details will be made available at a later time. Anyone with information related to this incident can contact Detective Christy Molina at 541-766-6782.

https://www.co.benton.or.us/sheriff/inmate_detail?inmate=1700001186

On July 18, 2017, at approximately 3:45am, Corvallis Police Department Officers were called to the Subway restaurant at 2479 NW Monroe Ave for a report of a robbery. An unknown male suspect wearing a mask entered the restaurant, presented a handgun to the employee, and then left with an undisclosed amount of cash. The employee was uninjured, and the suspect fled prior to officers arriving. Corvallis Police Department Detectives are working on the case. Anyone with information related to this incident can contact Detective Christy Molina at 541-766-6782.

Cowlitz County: Please see the Media Release and picture/poster about the unexpected passing of K9 Fritz. Fritz was a very active K9 but became ill over the past 3 days and the decision had to be made to put him down. Please help us share this loss with our community.


Attached Media Files: K9 Fritz BIO , K9 Fritz Poster

At 3:15 this afternoon a fire broke out in a agriculture grass seed field. The farmer was combining the field and it appears the combine started the fire. The fire was fast moving burning around a BPA power station that serve the south coast communities of Oregon. The fire burned an estimated 50 acres. Numerous homes along with the BPA power station were threatened. Eugene Springfield Fired department along with The Oregon Department of Forestry and Lane Fire Authority had numerous fire engines on scene. It took an hour to contain the fire.

The fire was pushed by a south west wind with up to ten foot flame length through the field traveling into a hilly area where the homes were. Engines were placed in position to protect the homes. Crews will remain on scene mopping up through the evening.

The FBI is asking for the public's help locating a long-term fugitive: Barrett Preston Busschau. Busschau, now 42 years old, disappeared from Oregon in 1993 after Clackamas County authorities arrested him on sex abuse charges. The FBI Laboratory has produced an age-progressed photo of what Busschau may look like now, and the FBI recently profiled Busschau's case on its fugitive website. His "Wanted by the FBI" poster can be found at:

https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/cac/barrett-preston-busschau

On July 27, 1993, a Clackamas County grand jury indicted Buscchau for the alleged molestation of five girls between the ages of ten and 15. He was 18 years old at the time. The charges include:

1st degree sexual penetration with a foreign object
1st degree sex abuse
3rd degree sodomy
3rd degree rape
3rd degree sex abuse

Busschau was released pending trial, but he fled before his next court appearance. In February 1994, a Clackamas County grand jury indicted him for failure to appear. That same year, the FBI obtained a federal fugitive warrant charging him with Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution.

Busschau is a native of South Africa, and he had been living in the United States since 1984 as a legal permanent resident. Investigators believe he may have traveled to California and/or Panama following his disappearance, but the last known sighting of him places him in South Africa.

Investigators do believe there may be people still living in the Portland-metro area who have information that could help lead the FBI to Busschau. Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI at (503) 224-4181 or submit a tip to https://www.fbi.gov/tips


Attached Media Files: Busschau - 1993 booking photo , Busschau - FBI Age Progressed Photo

Welcome to the Oregon FBI's Tech Tuesday segment. This week: building a digital defense against tech support fraud.

In 2016, the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center received almost 11,000 reports of tech support fraud incidents. In those cases, victims reported losses of more than $7.8 million.

So what is tech support fraud? Imagine you receive a call from someone who says he is with a computer software or security company. Maybe he says he is with a cable or Internet provider. The caller tells you that your software is out of date, and you are vulnerable to a cyber attack. Or, he says your equipment is malfunctioning, and he can fix it remotely -- saving you a service call. All you have to do is to provide the caller with remote access to your computer or device. No idea what he's talking about? No worries -- he will be happy to walk you through all the technical details.

In another variation of the fraud, the bad guy convinces the you that you overpaid for a recent service. He would be happy to refund the overage if you would just give him a few details -- such as your bank account number -- so he can arrange the refund.

In reality, he is either just trying to get into your account to clean it out -- or, he is working for long-term access to launch other frauds. In this second example, he transfers money back and forth between your own checking, savings and retirement accounts to make it appear as though there is a refund when in fact there is none. Eventually, he tells you that he refunded too much and asks you to wire money back to the fraudulent company. Victims often don't figure this out for quite awhile as the losses pile up.

So how do you protect yourself?

Never give a stranger remote access to your computer or other electronics.
If something seems a bit odd, it probably is. Hang up and look up a phone number for that company or provider using a publicly-available resource.
Don't give an unsolicited caller your bank account number or other personal information that he could use to access your accounts.
Don't let someone pressure you into buying a computer security product or subscription. Oftentimes, there are reputable, free products that will do that work for you. Seek out help from someone you trust to ensure that if you do pay for something -- it is worth the cost.

If you have been victimized by this scam or any other online scam, report your suspicious contacts to the FBI. You can file an online report at the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or call your FBI local office.


Attached Media Files: Tech Support Fraud - RUSSIAN Written , Tech Support Fraud - RUSSIAN Audio , Tech Support Fraud - SPANISH Written , Tech Support Fraud - SPANISH Audio , Tech Support Fraud - ENGLISH Audio

Just after 10:30pm on July 14th, firefighters were dispatched to a residential fire in the 1700 block of 19th Ave. While responding, it was reported that someone was trapped upstairs, because of this, a 2nd Alarm was dispatched. Crews arrived minutes later and found a 2 story house with flames and smoke showing from the first floor. They also discovered that no one was trapped in the structure and focused their efforts on fighting the flames. They were able to extinguish the flames on the first floor but discovered the flames had spread to the second floor and attic through the walls, but firefighters had a hard time accessing stairs to the second floor because they were accessed from the exterior as the structure was a house converted to apartments and not a single family dwelling like previously believed.

Firefighters were able to access the second floor and extinguish the flames, but had a difficult time accessing the flames in the attic. At the same time it was discovered that the roof on a neighboring auto repair shop had started fire. Because of a 2nd building on fire, a 3rd Alarm was dispatched to bring in additional firefighters. The fire on the auto shop was stopped at a very small size.

It took firefighters an hour to extinguish the fire and another hour and a half to put out hot spots and salvage valuables. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but appears to have started in the kitchen in the first floor apartment where a resident was cooking frozen fries in oil. That resident sustained burn injuries and was transported to a Portland burn center by Metro West Ambulance. A resident from the second floor apartment received care on scene for smoke inhalation, but didn't go to a hospital.

We wants to remind everyone that when cooking with oil to never add food to it with water or ice on it. The steam produced has small amounts of oil mixed in and can create a large fire ball. Also always have a fire extinguisher placed in your kitchen.

Forest Grove Fire & Rescue was assisted on scene by Cornelius Fire Department, Gaston Fire District, Hillsboro Fire & Rescue, Banks Fire District, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Metro West Ambulance and Forest Grove Police.

Scene information:

10 - Engines
1 - Truck
2 - Scene Support
2 - Chiefs
1 - Investigator

45 Firefighters

# # #


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1797/106132/IMG_5234.JPG , 2017-07/1797/106132/IMG_5239.JPG , 2017-07/1797/106132/IMG_2519.JPG

Gresham, Ore. -The Gresham Police Department issued 62 citations and more than two dozen warnings during their last two pedestrian safety missions. The May 12 focus was along the area of SE Stark St. and SE 194th Ave., and the June 13 mission was along NE 181st Ave., between NE Glisan St. and NE Halsey St.

The goal of the early evening missions was to raise safety awareness for drivers and pedestrians regarding pedestrian right-of-way laws. This was accomplished through distributing educational brochures, citations, and warnings.

During the safety operations, officers issued a total of 38 citations for crosswalk infractions and 24 citations for other offenses, including: illegal cell phone usage, failure to use a seat belt, not providing proof of insurance, and operating a vehicle without a license.

Education for drivers and pedestrians is vital to keeping our roads safe. Motorists must stop and yield to pedestrians who are waiting to cross, or who are in the process of crossing, the roadway. Motorists are also required to stop at all crosswalks when a vehicle is already stopped in a lane next to the one they are traveling in. Refer to Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 811.028, Failure to Stop and Remain Stopped for Pedestrian, for specifics on the law regarding drivers. Refer to ORS Chapter 814 for laws pertaining to pedestrians.

Funding for this pedestrian safety mission was made possible through a grant from Oregon Impact and Oregon Department of Transportation. Additional missions will be scheduled during the summer and again in September, as the new school year begins.


###

On 07/19/2017 at approximately 10:00pm, William Abbe was arrested for attempted Animal Abuse II/Carrying a Concealed Weapon/Felon in Possession/Violation of Release Agreement. The arrest took place at 1075 SE Baseline St in Hillsboro.


William Abbe is the owner of Darnell.

The Hillsboro Police Department would like to thank our witness and all those community members who assisted in identifying Abbe.

Darnell is doing fine and, is still in protective custody.


Attached Media Files: William Abbe

On 07/17/2017, the Hillsboro Police Department took a report of an animal abuse call. The call was generated by a witness, Sunshine Widmer. The incident took place at 275 SE. Baseline Street. Fortunately Ms. Widmer took video of the incident. Based on the video, we were able to identify the suspect.

Today (07/18/2017) at 6:00 pm, HPD took the Dog (Darnell) to a local Veterinarian to be examined. Darnell will be placed into protective custody until this case is resolved.

This case is still under investigation. We will release the name of the owner once the investigation is complete.


Attached Media Files: Darnell at the Vet office

Fire investigators were unable to determine the cause of Tuesday evening's commercial structure fire at the Copper Canyon Mini Storage facility, 1150 Airway Road in Lebanon. Four 10-foot by 20-foot units within a 6,500 square foot structure were heavily damaged by fire and a number of neighboring units received heat and smoke damage from the blaze.

Eight members of the Lebanon Fire District Fire Investigation Team methodically moved from unit to unit on Thursday, photographing and removing unit contents piece by piece in an effort to determine an area of fire origin and cause. Investigators were able to determine an area of origin, but did not have sufficient evidence available to make a cause determination due to the extensive destruction of evidence within the area of origin.

None of the storage units on the premises have interior lighting or electricity and the only electric service to the buildings is for the LED security lights mounted around the exterior of the structure. After consulting with an electrician, fire investigators eliminated those exterior lights as a possible cause because they are controlled by a photo sensor which does not supply power to the lighting circuits until triggered by darkness. Tuesday's fire was reported at 7:27 pm during daylight hours.

The Copper Canyon Mini Storage facility has been open for business for less than three months and the estimated value of the property and structures is 2.1 million dollars, not including occupant contents. Estimated content loss currently stands at $23,500. Damage to the fire building is estimated to be upwards of $25,000.

On Tuesday evening a couple and their son were at the complex loading items into their unit when they smelled smoke. Shortly after that they heard two loud explosions and saw fire coming from the roof of the building. The two adults accessed on-site fire extinguishers and attempted to douse the flames on the roof with no success. While trying to put out the flames they called 911 from a cell phone to report the fire. Lebanon Fire District units were dispatched at 7:28 pm and the first arriving engine was on scene in just three minutes. Crews quickly forced entry into multiple units which were heavily involved with fire and quickly stopped the rapidly growing fire.

One civilian was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation but refused transport for medical evaluation. Eight fire apparatus and fourteen personnel responded, along with two apparatus and three personnel from the Tangent Fire District. Crews were on scene for two hours.

For HD video of this and other LFD incidents visit our YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjTxDBuPbD3DPAybCkCgEvg
For HD photos of this and other LFD incidents visit our Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/LebanonFireDistrict
Follow us on Twitter for incident updates: https://twitter.com/LebanonFD

Heavy fire consumed multiple storage units at Copper Canyon Storage, 1150 Airway Road, in Lebanon on Tuesday night. The call was received at 7:28 pm and the caller reported flames from the roof of the structure and multiple explosions from inside the storage units. Bystanders attempted to extinguish the blaze with portable fire extinguishers located on site, but the intense heat and locked metal doors rendered their efforts ineffective.
An engine from the Lebanon Fire District was on scene within 3 minutes of the alarm, followed by two Division Chiefs, a second engine, a medic unit, and a Battalion Chief. First arriving units encountered heavy fire in multiple 10-foot by 20-foot units and heavy smoke which banked down to the ground, limiting visibility.

Fires in storage units present a multitude of issues for firefighters to deal with noted LFD Division Chief Jason Bolen. "Access to both the individual units and the complex can be difficult and can really slow suppression efforts." Bolen said. "In this case first arriving units made quick access through the security gates because the owners had just installed Knox Locks on their gates." A Knox Lock is a secured padlock or vault which only firefighters can access with a special key carried on all their apparatus. LFD engine companies were quickly through the gates and went to work forcing entry into 8-10 separate storage units to fight fire and ensure that no fire extended into other units.

The compact nature of storage units also hampers fire crews, as people tend to pack their units full of combustibles making firefighting and salvage efforts more difficult than the typical house fire.

The Lebanon Fire Investigation Team will be investigating the cause of the fire on Wednesday. There are no estimates on damages to the structure or contents at this time. The property, which opened less than three months ago, was insured however contents are insured by the individual homeowner's policy or renter's policy of each unit tenant. LFD expects to conclude its investigation on Wednesday and release the property back to the owner, who can then allow renters to access their storage units.

One person was treated for smoke inhalation on scene but they refused transport to the hospital for further evaluation. There were no firefighter injuries. A total of eight LFD units responded to the fire along with two mutual aid units from the Tangent Fire District. Units cleared the scene in just under two hours.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1191/106217/IMG_5004.JPG , 2017-07/1191/106217/IMG_5002.JPG , 2017-07/1191/106217/IMG_4999a.jpg , 2017-07/1191/106217/IMG_4988.JPG

On July 17, 2017 at about 8:30PM Lincoln City Police received a call requesting assistance at the entrance to The Villages property at the end of NW Voyage Avenue in Lincoln City. The caller disconnected before 911 Dispatchers were able to obtain any further information.

Approximately 8 minutes later the first LCPD Officer, who is also a trained paramedic, arrived at the scene. The officer located a deceased male,lying on the ground, outside of a parked vehicle. At this time the investigation indicates there is no evidence of foul play involved.
The Lincoln City Police and Lincoln County Medical Examiner are continuing the investigation.

The deceased person has been identified as Mr. Gary G. Ellingson, age 66, of Lincoln City. Mr. Ellingson has been a very respected and longtime resident of Lincoln City and had served in the past as a member of the City Council.

Mr. Ellingson's family has been notified and has requested their privacy be respected at this time.

On Monday, July 17, 2017, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office received 35 units of Naloxone medication (commonly known as "Narcan") from Samaritan Health Services to outfit all Sheriff's Office patrol vehicles as well as the Lincoln County Jail. Each unit contains two dosages in nasal spray applicators. The medication was donated by Samaritan Health Services with the intent of increasing life-saving efforts by our patrol deputies when they encounter opioid overdose cases in the field.

"Often times our deputies are the first emergency responders to arrive at a scene of a medical call involving an overdose," stated Sheriff Curtis Landers. "Having our deputies trained and equipped with Naloxone to administer to patients demonstrating signs of an opioid overdose will increase their chance of survival."

Naloxone is a medication credited for saving lives worldwide but specifically used in public safety to combat opioid overdose cases related to both prescription and illicit drugs. Examples of opioid drugs include the illegal drug heroin and pain relievers available with a legal prescription such as hydrocodone, oxycodone, codeine, morphine, and many others.

"Our deputies have encountered several different cases of overdoses ranging from accidental use of prescription pain relievers to illicit drug overdoses, such as heroin," stated Sheriff Landers. "Regardless of the circumstance, our deputies are committed to providing the best service we can to all of our citizens and we are very grateful for our continued partnership with Samaritan Health Services and their generous donation," stated Sheriff Landers.

-The attached photo is of Lincoln County Sheriff's Office Patrol Commander, Lieutenant Brian Cameron, and Samaritan Health Services Safety Director Joe Hutchinson.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/5490/106277/IMG_6476.JPG

TIP OF THE WEEK - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 24, 2017

Sheriff Curtis Landers
541-265-0652
clanders@co.lincoln.or.us

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

What is National Night Out? It is an annual community-building campaign to promote police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. This helps make our neighborhoods a safer and more caring place to live. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. It provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.

This will be the 34th year that millions of neighbors across thousands of communities in the United States, Canada and military bases worldwide, come together on the first Tuesday of August to celebrate taking a stand against crime by hosting community events. Neighborhoods hold block parties, cookouts, children's events, demonstrations, and much more. This year, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, in partnership with the Siletz Valley Fire Department, is hosting a National Night Out with the Siletz community and the support of numerous generous donors around the county.

We want you to join us in Siletz on Tuesday, August 1, 2017, between the hours of 6-9pm on Bensell Street between Swan and Buford Streets. Numerous activities will be taking place in the field between the Siletz Fire Department and the Library. This will be a great night of fun, food and friendship-building. We hope you will join us in standing united against crime in support of safer neighborhoods.

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

###
Submitted by:
Kathy Manning, Administrative Assistant
kmanning@co.lincoln.or.us
Ph: 541-265-0652


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/5490/106274/National_Night_Out_Flyer_2017.pdf , 2017-07/5490/106274/072417-National_Night_Out.pdf

On July 11, 2017, at approximately 8 PM, an unknown male attempted to assault a 17 year old female in Waldport. The incident occurred in a public location near the 2600 block of E. Alsea Highway, just east of Waldport, OR.

The victim was able to fight the male off and in the process obtained a description prior to him fleeing on foot. Lincoln County Sheriff's Deputies and Oregon State Police Troopers immediately responded to the scene and conducted a thorough search of the area.

A forensic image specialist from the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office was called to assist and created a composite sketch of the suspect, which is attached.

The victim described the male suspect as appearing to be Hispanic, 25-35 years of age, 5'8"-6'0", 220-240 pounds, and having an accent. The suspect was further described as having a "baby face", clean shaven with some sort of facial scarring or sun spots and having big lips. The male's eyes were obscured by a beanie cap he had pulled down.

This is an open and active investigation. Anyone with information regarding this incident are asked to call the Sheriff's Office Tip-Line at (541) 265-0669, callers can remain anonymous.

###
Respectfully submitted,

David Boys, Detective
Crime Reduction Unit
Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
225 W. Olive
Newport, Oregon 97365
Desk: (541) 265-0668


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/5490/106190/17S-01830_Composite_Sketch.pdf

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports that today at 12:30 p.m., 17-year-old Kyra Odom, her mother, Heidi Odom of Kountze, Texas and five other friends hiked into Tamolitch Falls, also known as Blue Pool to swim and jump from the cliffs.

Two of Kyra's friends had already successfully jumped into the water from a cliff approximately 30 to 35 feet above the water. Kyra had no prior experience jumping from cliffs and partially fell while attempting her jump. As she fell, she hit a rock approximately 20 feet down. After colliding with the rock, she continued to fall and landed in approximately 12-18 inches of water.

Kyra suffered a substantial injury to her left hip, possibly resulting in a fracture. The two friends who had previously jumped from the cliff jumped in again and were able to pull her across Blue Pool to safety where she was stabilized.

There is no cell phone service at Blue Pool. A bystander hiked the 2-mile trail out to the trailhead near Trail Bridge Reservoir to call for help at 2:00 p.m. Because of the proximity to Lane County, the initial 9-1-1 call for help was received by the Lane County Sheriff's Office, then routed to the Linn County Sheriff's Office.

Search and Rescue teams from Linn County, Lane County, Corvallis Mountain Rescue, Eugene Mountain Rescue along with The Upper McKenzie Fire Department, Sweet Home Fire Department and the USFS responded to assist with the rescue. Initial responding teams were able to reach Kyra by 3:00 p.m. As additional SAR teams arrived, Kyra was hoisted manually with ropes and technical climbing gear to the top of the Blue Pool Waterfall which is currently dry. In all, more than 40 personnel assisted with the rescue mission.

At 5:43 p.m. an Army National Guard Blackhawk helicopter was able to safely hoist Kyra from the top of the waterfall and transport her to Riverbend Hospital in Eugene where she is in stable condition.

Sheriff Riley would like to remind citizens that cliff diving can be very dangerous and should be avoided. Blue Pool has been the location of several search and rescue missions. If hiking or swimming in and around Blue Pool, extra caution should be taken.

Deputies and volunteers with the Marion County Sheriff's Office along with Linn County Sheriff's Office are searching for two overdue hikers in the Opal Creek recreation area. The search began this morning for the couple, a 19 year old male and 21 year old female who set out for a day hike yesterday. They texted family yesterday at around 5:40 pm saying if they didn't hear from them by midnight that they may need help. The two are avid hikers and it is believed they have adequate supplies with them. Search crews are working on air operations to assist with this search.

A command post has been established at the Elkhorn Fire Station, which will also be a staging location for media. As additional information becomes available, additional press releases will be sent out.

Deputies with the Marion County Sheriff's Office are on the scene of a subject shot. At approximately 5:30 pm today, deputies responded to the 4800 block of Lancaster Dr NE to the reports of a victim who was shot. As Deputies were responding, additional information was called into 911 to report a suspect was leaving the scene of the shooting.

Deputies arrived on scene to find a 35 year old white male adult, that had a single gunshot wound. The victim was treated on scene by fire and medical personnel and later transported to Salem Memorial Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Other responding deputies searched the area of Portland Rd and Hayesville for the suspect. At this time deputies have not located the suspect, who is described as Hispanic male in his 20's wearing a grey hoodie sweatshirt with his hood over his head. The suspect was described as 5 foot 9 inches tall with a thin build riding a bicycle described as a "beach cruiser".

Deputies will be processing the scene for some time into the evening. The Sheriff's Office is asking anyone with information regarding this case to call 503-588-5032. We do not anticipate releasing further information this evening.


Attached Media Files: Scene photo

Mr Carpenter has been located and reunited with his family. An observant citizen recognized Mr Carpenter as the missing person and called Keizer Police at approximately 3:30Pm on 7-17-17 . Keizer Police Officers responded to Burger King and made contact with Mr Carpenter who was ultimately reunited with his family safely.

This will be the last update on this release.





Today at 5:00 p.m., Marion County deputies were altered by family members that Richard Carpenter, age 73 was missing. Mr. Carpenter came to Salem last night to live with family and receive medical care.

At 8:00 a.m., this morning Mr. Carpenter left his residence in the 4000 block of Wyant Court NE and has not yet returned. Mr. Carpenter has numerous health conditions and family is concerned for his safety. Mr. Carpenter is a white male, 5'09" tall, 100 pounds with gray hair, blue eyes and wears glasses. He was last seen wearing blue jeans, a black belt and an unknown colored plaid shirt. Mr. Carpenter is driving a black 2008, Cadillac SRX, California license number 6BAN631.

If you see Mr. Carpenter you are asked to call the Sheriff's Office at 503 588 5032.

Vehicle pictured is a similar make and model being driven by Mr. Carpenter


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1294/106139/Missing_Carpenter.jpg

Today around 3:00 p.m., 4 strangers leapt into action after a 4 year old boy was swept down river at the North Fork County Park reaction area in east Marion County. The boy who was standing with his father and siblings next to the water's edge, ended up in the river after his father looked away for only a few moments. The water quickly took the boy from the upper pool through the rapids and into the lower pool.

That's when two men Jason McDade and Christian Lozano jumped into action pulling the boy from the water. On the beach a certified nursing assistant Kelda Klukis and a registered nurse Maryela Lozano began CPR the boy's lifeless body. When paramedics arrived the boy was again breathing and he was transported to Santiam Hospital where he is expected to make a full recovery. The child was not wearing a life vest at the time of the accident.

The Sheriff's Office would like to remind all of our visitors and residents that recreating in open water can be dangerous so please wear a life vest, especially in or around moving water. We would also like to thank all of the rescuers who worked together to save a young boys life.

Media 2 of the rescuers have agreed to interviews their contact information can be obtained by emailing cbaldridge@co.marion.or.us


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1294/106159/imagejpeg_0_1495594139185.jpg

UPDATE

The joint pedestrian safety mission with MCSO deputies and GPD officers yielded 43 citations and two warnings for Failure to Stop for a Pedestrian, three citations for No Seatbelt, four cellphone violations, two suspended drivers, a few other citations, and one DUII (drugs) over the four-hour span.

MCSO and GPD encourage all drivers to be aware of pedestrians and to follow traffic laws while traveling Oregon roadways.

######

The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office and Gresham Police Department will be conducting a Pedestrian Safety Mission on Friday, July 14 on Cochran Road between Troutdale Road and Kane Drive.

Oregon's streets and highways are busy, with roadways being shared by drivers and pedestrians alike. The majority of driver errors in motor vehicle/pedestrian crashes are a failure of drivers to yield to a pedestrian.

Half of the pedestrians who are struck by vehicles are hit while they are in a crosswalk. Pedestrians and motorists both share in the responsibility of pedestrian safety.

MCSO and GPD would like to remind everyone of these tips to help keep pedestrians safe:

Remember, under Oregon law there is a crosswalk at every intersection.

Do not pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk. (A stopped car may be a clue that a pedestrian is crossing. When stopping for a crosswalk on a multi-lane road, you should stop about 30 feet before the crosswalk so you don't block visibility to a driver in a second lane.)

When stopping at an intersection, do not block the crosswalk. This forces pedestrians to go around your vehicle and puts them in a dangerous situation.

Watch for pedestrians, especially children, when exiting driveways or when backing out of parking spaces in parking lots.

Pedestrians move at different speeds. Be alert for children who may suddenly dart into the street. Be patient with older adults who take extra time to cross the street.

Around taverns and bars, be alert for people with slowed reaction times or impaired judgment.

Be alert for people or animals during low-light conditions, especially in areas where they are likely to cross the road, or you might not see them until it is too late to stop.

Funding for both agencies to perform this joint effort mission is provided by Oregon Impact and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

###


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1276/105946/Pedestrian_Safety_Operation.JPG

As Oregon's summer travel season gets in full gear, State Fire Marshal Jim Walker is cautioning all campers to heed campfire safety rules and tips.

"Camping is an excellent way to enjoy all of the outdoor beauty and recreation Oregon has to offer, said State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. "However, that beauty can only be maintained if people follow campfire safety."

The OSFM encourages everyone to follow these campfire safety guidelines:
Check if campfires are allowed in the area in which you will be staying.
Keep a shovel and water nearby to extinguish any escaped embers.
Select a site away from grasses, shrubs, overhanging branches, and firewood. Existing fire pits in established campgrounds are best.
Scrape away leaves and debris to bare soil, at least 10 feet on all sides of the fire pit.
Circle your campfire pit with rocks; start your fire with paper or manufactured fire starters, NEVER use gasoline; keep the fire small and add wood in small amounts.
Never leave a campfire unattended.
Before going to bed or leaving the campsite, drown the campfire with water, stir the coals, and drown again. Repeat until the fire is out and the coals are cool to the touch.

For more wildfire prevention information and restrictions, we encourage you to visit Keep Oregon Green at www.keeporegongreen.org and the Oregon Department of Forestry at www.oregon.gov.

Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Trooper, Jim Andrews, was presented with the 2016 Wildlife Officer of the Year Award. This award was presented on behalf of the Shikar-Safari Club International by Lynn Loacker. The Shikar-Safari Club International recognizes one wildlife officer per year in each state. They present the prestigious award to the wildlife officer who symbolizes their mission of wildlife conservation and outdoor education. Pictured from left to right is Sergeant James Halsey, Trooper Jim Andrews, Shikar-Safari Club International member Lynn Loacker and Lieutenant Casey Thomas.

What does it take to be a Fish and Wildlife Officer of the Year? It takes a highly motivated individual with an outstanding work ethic as well as a being a leader among their peers and setting a high standard for excellence in their work as a Wildlife Officer. This individual should produce a high volume of self-generated activities while maintaining a heavy case load and provide a breadth of knowledge across all facets of work as an Oregon State Trooper. All of these attributes describe Oregon State Trooper Jim Andrews of the Mid Valley Fish and Wildlife Team.

Trooper Andrews dedication and passion for the enforcement of fish and wildlife laws within the state of Oregon shows consistently on a day to day basis. Trooper Andrews is happy to share his knowledge and assist co-workers with complex investigations. He is recognized by his peers as being well versed in case law as well as search and seizure and is an excellent report writer. In addition, he volunteers his time mentoring and training Oregon State Police Troopers as well as other law enforcement agencies as an instructor during Jet and Drift Boat schools, and as a Patrol Tactics Instructor.

Trooper Andrews has proven that wildlife officers are well rounded and capable of handling a variety of situations. He has done this by completing thorough investigations and follow-up throughout the 2016 year; ranging from wildlife cases to DUII and drug arrests. Trooper Andrews had several lengthy investigations during the 2016 year. One of the investigations started towards the end of 2015 stemming from a turkey case. Trooper Andrews, using all available resources, continued to conduct a thorough investigation into 2016, resulting in a search warrant in a Lincoln County residence where 4 trophy class blacktail shoulder mounts were seized. Two male subjects were charged criminally for multiple violations. Trooper Andrews exemplifies what the Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is all about.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1002/106282/Tpr_Andrews_Shikar_Internatioal_Award_2016.JPG

On July 20, 2017 at about 8:57 p.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) Troopers responded to the report of a shooting at the Speedy Mart at 305 S. Redwood Hwy, Cave Junction. The victim, Floyd Argus GREENLEE, age 29, of Cave Junction, was transported to Three Rivers Medical Center in Grants Pass with serious injuries.

The suspect, Ronald Jedidiah FEHLHABER, age 32, of Cave Junction, fled the scene prior to law enforcement arrival. FEHLHABER's whereabouts are unknown at this time and should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who identifies FEHLHABER is asked to not approach, use caution and immediately contact law enforcement.

FEHLHABER is described as a white male, age 32, 5'8", 150 pounds with blond hair and blue eyes.

Anyone with information regarding the location of FEHLHABER is asked to call OSP Southern Command Center dispatch at 541-664-4600 or 9-1-1. Refer to OSP case number SP17255970.


Attached Media Files: Photo1 , Photo2 , Photo3

On July 19, 2017, the Lane County District Attorney's Office Chief Deputy District Attorney, Erik Hasselman, was presented with the 2016 Wildlife Prosecutor of the Year award during the Oregon District Attorney's Association summer training conference held in Seaside, Oregon. Chief Deputy Hasselman received the award in front of hundreds of his peers and colleagues.

The 2016 Wildlife Prosecutor of the Year Award was presented on behalf of the Oregon Sportsmen's Coalition by Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division Captain Jeff Samuels, Lieutenant Dave Gifford, and Sergeant Chris Ashenfelter, along with Director Curt Melcher of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Chief Deputy Hasselman was nominated for the award by the Oregon State Police South Valley Fish and Wildlife Team as he has shown a vested interest in protecting Oregon's natural resources. He is considered a member of the team and is in constant communication with and calls Troopers about fish and wildlife cases he hears about even before the reports arrive at the DA's Office. Mr. Hasselman, as a chief deputy district attorney responsible for handling serious person crimes, has much on his plate though he takes on fish and wildlife cases with enthusiasm and holds violators accountable for their unlawful actions. He actively puts out press releases to inform the community on poaching cases and through his vigorous prosecution has people talking about the penalties for poaching which creates an effective deterrent factor. Mr. Hasselman shares the passion and commitment each of the Troopers have for protecting the fish, wildlife and natural resources of the State.

The Oregon Sportsmen's Coalition, which consists of volunteer outdoor enthusiast organizations opposed to the unlawful and unethical taking of wildlife to include the Oregon Hunters Association, sponsored the award. This is the tenth annual presentation of the Wildlife Prosecutor of the Year Award. Chief Deputy Erik Hasselman is commended for his efforts.

Pictured: Chief Deputy District Attorney Erik Hasselman of the Lane County District Attorney's Office


Attached Media Files: Photo

UPDATE 2

Around midnight on July 18, 2017, WEST was detained by the Albany Police Department for shoplifting candy bars. Officers determined he had an active warrant for his arrest and booked him into Linn County Jail. On July 19, he was transferred to the Oregon Youth Authority's (OYA) MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn to await disposition. He may face charges for his escape from OYA's Camp Riverbend Youth Transition Facility as well as other law violations allegedly committed after his escape.

MCAULIFFE is still at large. If anyone sees him, please call OSP Southern Command Center dispatch at 541-664-4600 or 911. Refer to OSP case number SP17211022.

###

UPDATE

On June 24, 2017, Oregon State Police believes either WEST and/or MCAULIFFE stole a white Ford F250 from Oregon State Parks at Emigrant Springs State Park. The truck is marked with the state park emblem on the doors. The original plates on the vehicle were E273867. On the morning of June 24th MCAULIFFE was seen at a pharmacy in Milton-Freewater.

WEST is originally from Salem and MCAULIFFE is from Central Point.

If anyone sees the vehicle or either WEST or MCAULIFFE please call 911.

###

Oregon State Police (OSP) is asking for the public's help to find two Oregon Youth Authority youths that escaped from 58231 HWY 244, La Grande, Camp Riverbend Youth Transitional Facility, at around 7:50 p.m., June 20, 2017.

Escapee #1: Brittain MCAULIFFE, age 18, of Central Point, is described as a white male, 5'10", 220 pounds, stocky build, tattoos on both forearms, one described as "Native Pride". His hair is short on the sides and the top is approximately six inches long with ponytail. He wears glasses and was wearing a white tank top, black shorts with a red stripe on the sides, and black and red mid top shoes.

Escapee #2: Micah WEST, age 18, of Salem, is described as a white male 5'11" 155 pounds, multiple tattoos, one is described as a derringer pistol on one arm. One is an eagle tattoo on his chest and a cross tattoo on left forearm. West is bald and was wearing a dark blue hoodie and blue jeans.

Anyone who identifies them is asked to not approach, use caution and immediately contact law enforcement.

Anyone with information regarding the location of MCAULIFFE and or WEST is asked to call OSP Southern Command Center dispatch at 541-664-4600 or 9-1-1. Refer to OSP case number SP17211022.

OSP is being assisted by Union County Sheriff's Office and the Oregon Youth Authority.


Attached Media Files: Photo2 , Photo1 , 2017-06/1002/105452/truck.jpg

On July 17, 2017, at about 11:30 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 221 near milepost 11.5, in Polk County.

Preliminary information indicates that a 2003 Ford Focus, operated by Ivan Garcia TRAPALA, age 24, of Salem, was located approximately 35 feet off the roadway and not visible from the road. TRAPALA was found deceased and partially ejected from the vehicle. The crash appeared to have occurred several days prior and cause of the crash is under investigation.

Further information indicated that the registered owner reported the vehicle stolen on July 10, 2017 to the Keizer Police Department. One lane was closed for approximately two hours during the scene investigation, until both lanes were reopened.

OSP was assisted by Polk County Sheriff's Office, Salem Fire Department Station 4, and the Polk County Medical Examiner's Office. More information will be released when it becomes available.


Attached Media Files: Photo1 , Photo2

On July 18, 2017, at about 10:30 a.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a two-vehicle crash on Highway 20 near milepost 34.5 (east of Sweet Home).

Preliminary investigation revealed that a black 2015 BMW Motorcycle, operated by John Harvey WEEKS, age 65, of Salem, was travelling eastbound on Highway 20 east of Sweet Home when for unknown reasons, the BMW veered into the oncoming lane and struck a green 2016 Kenworth log truck, operated by Kenneth Keil REYNOLDS, age 59, of Sweet Home, that was travelling westbound. The BMW collided into the side of the Kenworth.

WEEKS suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. REYNOLDS was not injured. Witness stated that WEEKS was possibly looking over his shoulder behind him while negotiating the curve.

Highway 20 was closed for approximately three hours following the crash. OSP was assisted by the Sweet Home Fire & Ambulance District and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).

This is an ongoing investigation and more information will be released when available.


Attached Media Files: Photo1 , Photo2

The Oregon State Police (OSP), Mid-Columbia Fish and Wildlife Team (The Dalles) was recently awarded with the OSP Fish and Wildlife Division Team of the Year award for 2016 accomplishments. The Mid-Columbia Team consists of highly motivated, dedicated and tenacious troopers who enforce fish and wildlife laws and protect Oregon's natural resources, citizens and visitors in five counties; Hood River, Gilliam, Sherman, Wasco and Wheeler.

Together, the Mid-Columbia Team proved that through perseverance, dedication and quality investigations their collaborative work enabled them to successfully hold person(s) accountable for the following cases during 2016: Team members initiated an ongoing multi-state major serial poaching investigation where several individuals unlawfully killed up to 30 animals throughout several counties in Oregon and up to 50 animals throughout several counties in Washington. Troopers are continuing to work closely with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife sharing information and coordinating conclusion of this investigation.

A team member investigated a serious boat collision occurring in the Columbia River between two boats which caused serious injury to several occupants. The investigation resulted in a guilty plea by one boat operator for BUII, two counts of Assault IV and reckless boating.
Team members responded to a report of the possible poaching of bighorn sheep along Interstate 84 in Gilliam County. The suspects were located, identified, arrested and lodged in jail after two bighorn sheep were located with their heads removed and placed in garbage bags. Upon a thorough investigation, the hard work of the troopers led to the successful prosecution of the two suspects.

They conducted several boat patrols during the fall commercial fishing season, making several arrests and seizures of fish and gill nets used while fishing illegally; primarily by unlawful drift netting through river mouth sanctuaries.

Team members also worked closely with Patrol Division Troopers, assisting with traffic crashes and other calls for service. Additionally, they work well with other local and county law enforcement partners within five counties to provide the best service to the citizens of Oregon.

In addition to their normal Fish and Wildlife Division duties and activities, the Mid-Columbia Team members performed an array of other assignments ranging from being members of, or instructors in various fields including the Oregon State Police Critical Incident Response Team providing support to law enforcement officers who have been involved in critical incidents, to instructing recruit troopers in the enforcement of fish and wildlife laws, as well as, providing quality instruction to other Department members in firearms training, defensive tactics and boat operations to name a few.

The Mid-Columbia Fish and Wildlife Team is commended for a job well done and for their commitment to protecting people, property and Oregon's natural resources.

Photo: Pictured from left to right; Back row -- Senior Trooper Swede Pearson, Senior Trooper Justin Frazier, Sergeant Les Kipper. Front Row -- Senior Trooper Mark Jubitz, Senior Trooper Brent Ocheskey, Trooper Jason Walters and Senior Trooper Thad Routson. Not present: Senior Trooper Craig Gunderson.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1002/106202/2016_Team_of_the_Year_For_Public.jpg

Oregon State Police (OSP) is continuing the investigation into Sunday evening's fatal motor vehicle crash on Interstate 5 north of Roseburg.

On July 16, 2017 at about 5:00 PM, OSP and first responders were dispatched to a single vehicle rollover on Interstate 5 near milepost 133. Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2002 Chevy van, operated by TAYLOR NIERI, age 22, from Eugene Oregon, was southbound when one of its tires blew out causing NIERI to lose control. The Chevy van went off the roadway and onto the shoulder where it rolled multiple times. The Chevy van came to an uncontrolled rest on its top after crossing Rogers Road, which is a county road, adjacent to the Interstate 5. During the crash the rear passenger, JAMES THORPE, age 35, from Eugene was ejected. NIERI was declared deceased at the crash scene by first responders. THORPE was transported by ground ambulance to Mercy Medical Center and was later taken by air ambulance to Sacred Heart at Riverbend for critical injuries.

OSP is continuing the investigation into the crash. NIERI was wearing safety restraints at the time of the crash. THORPE was not wearing safety restraints. Rogers Road was closed for about three hours during the investigation.

OSP was assisted by Sutherlin Police Department, Douglas County Fire District 2, Roseburg Towing, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Photograph courtesy of OSP.


Attached Media Files: Douglas_County

Firefighters were called to a fire (2110 SW Jefferson St) at 6:27 pm. They arrived to a dumpster fire that was spreading to the floors of the upper units. Crews quickly began extinguishing the fire, while simultaneously making sure that all occupants were evacuated. No one was injured during this incident and the cause of the fire is under investigation.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/549/106248/IMG1950386972.jpg

7/15/17 12:39 PM-One firefighter was injured as crews worked to extinguish fire in a duplex at SE 87th Ct & SE Insley St. The firefighter suffered a non-life threatening leg injury. The fire burned from the exterior into the attic of the structure, but firefighters were able to extinguish it fairly quickly.

No other injuries were associated with this fire and investigators are on scene looking for the cause.

This morning at 9:11 AM Portland Firefighters were called to 1 SW Columbia. Reports indicated that workers were trapped on the side of the 263' tall building. Fire crews arrived and confirmed that two people were trapped on scaffolding that was hanging approximately 15' down from the top. The scaffolding motor malfunctioned and the workers were unable to move up or down.

PF&R's Technical Rescue Team set up a rescue system using ropes and pulley's and then lowered firefighters to the trapped men. The rescuers placed harnesses onto the workers and then pulled them back up onto the roof using the ropes. The men were uninjured and no responders were injured during this rescue. The rescue took approximately 45 minutes.

More images and video will be added to this release as the files become available.


Attached Media Files: Rescue Setup 2 , Rescue Setup 1 , View from ground 2 , View from ground 1

On Thursday July 20, 2017, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., officers from the Portland Police Bureau's Traffic and Transit Divisions, Central, East and North Precincts worked in cooperation with the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Division Midway Alliance and other East Portland organizations to conduct the Thursday Night Vision Zero Traffic Mission in East Portland.

As PBOT employees and volunteers walked Southeast Division Street in bright orange vests educating community members about Vision Zero, Portland Police Officers performed enhanced patrols in the area. During the joint mission officers issued 20 citations for 37 traffic violations and 19 warnings for 21 traffic violations. Officers also arrested a person for Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle and another person for Mail Theft during.

The Portland Police Bureau is committed to working with our partners in government and the community to create safer streets and work towards reducing, and eventually eliminating, traffic fatalities as part of Vision Zero.

To learn more about the City of Portland's Vision Zero effort, please visit: http://www.portlandoregon.gov/transportation/40390

###PPB###

###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###

During the evening of Thursday July 20, 2017, the Portland Police Bureau, in partnership with the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Division Midway Alliance and other East Portland organizations, will conduct an enhanced Thursday Night Vision Zero Traffic Mission in East Portland.

Officers with the Portland Police Bureau's Traffic and Transit Divisions, East, Central, and North Precincts will be conducting the mission on Southeast Division Street between Southeast 112th Avenue and 148th Avenue, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Officers will focus their enforcement and education efforts on behaviors that contribute significantly to serious injury crashes and traffic fatalities; including, but not limited to, excessive speeding, distracted driving and failing to yield the right-of-way. These kinds of traffic missions have been part of an ongoing effort since August 2016 to create safer streets and work toward reducing, and eventually eliminating, serious injury crashes and traffic fatalities as part of Vision Zero.

Debuting a new outreach effort, staff from the Portland Bureau of Transportation will work with community volunteers to engage people walking and biking in this area. These street teams will provide residents with information about both Vision Zero and safe walking and biking behavior.

The event follows a series of recent traffic fatalities, many of them on the streets of East Portland. Since June 16, 2017, there have been 10 traffic-related fatalities in Portland, with a total of 24 traffic fatalities in 2017. The goal of Thursday evening's event is to raise awareness of Vision Zero and the importance of biking, walking and driving safely on Portland's streets.

"As Transportation Commissioner, making Portland's streets safe for all users is one of my top priorities," said Commissioner Dan Saltzman. "Events like this, which combine enforcement and community outreach are key to our efforts to achieve our Vision Zero goals."

Captain Mike Crebs of the Portland Police Bureau Traffic Division said, "Missions like the one occurring today hopefully remind everyone to take it upon themselves to slow down and don't drive while under the influence or distracted. We are asking the community to do their part in achieving the goals of Vision Zero."

"We all have to work together to get to zero deaths and serious injuries on our roads," said Transportation Director Leah Treat. "That is why I am so thankful for the support of the Portland Police Bureau, Division Midway Alliance and our other East Portland community partners for this event."

Media Only: The public information officers from PPB and PBOT will be available at 6:00 pm at the southwest corner of Southeast 122nd Avenue and Division Street to discuss the mission.

###PPB###

The suspect who attempted to elude police and rammed his vehicle into two police vehicles has been identified as 33-year-old Andrew D. Lentz. Lentz was lodged into the Multnomah County Jail on charges of Attempt to Elude by Vehicle, Reckless Driving, four counts of Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree, and Fail to Perform the Duties of a Driver -- Property.

The officer who was injured in this incident has been released from the hospital.

###PPB###

###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###

On Friday July 21, 2017, at 03:39 a.m., an officer assigned to the Portland Police Bureau's East Percent attempted to stop a 1989 red Jeep Comanche pickup near Southeast 100th Avenue and Southeast Holgate Boulevard after multiple officers observed the driver operating the Jeep recklessly.

An officer activated his emergency lights and sirens to perform a traffic stop on the Jeep and driver. The driver of the Jeep did not stop. The officer pursued the vehicle. During the pursuit, officers deployed several pursuit intervention techniques to stop the driver and vehicle. Officers used spike strips and successfully flattened some of the vehicle's tires. Officers also attempted the PIT Maneuver; however, the subject was able to drive out of the PIT Maneuver. Near the intersection of Southeast 72nd Avenue and Southeast Foster Road, officers attempted to stop the vehicle using a box-in, at which time the subject rammed two police vehicles. When the subject rammed the police vehicles an officer was injured.

Officers successfully boxed-in the vehicle, causing the vehicle to stop. Officers engaged the driver, gave him commands and took him into custody.

Once the subject was in custody, medical personnel entered the scene and provided medical aid to the injured officer. The officer was transported to an area hospital by ambulance with what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.

Southeast Foster Road near Southeast 72nd Avenue should be re-opened shortly.

Additional information will be released when it is available.

###PPB###


Attached Media Files: Andrew D. Lentz

SERT officers have taken the suspect into custody in the 3800 block of Southeast 67th Avenue.

Clackamas County Sheriff's Office Detectives have assumed control of the investigation.

The neighborhood safety perimeter has been lifted.

The Portland Police Bureau would like to thank area residents for their patience as officers worked to ensure community safety and apprehend the suspect.

Updates regarding the investigation will be provided by the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office when available.

###PPB###

###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###


The new media staging area will be the on the west side of the 3400 block of Southeast 69th Avenue. The PIO will provide a briefing at approximately 7:35 a.m.

###PPB###

###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###

The Portland Police Bureau's Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT) and Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) are responding to Southeast 68th Avenue and Southeast Rhone Street to assist officers with a search for an armed robbery suspect.

The suspect is believed to be involved in an armed robbery that occurred in Clackamas County.
The Portland Bureau of Emergency Communication (PBEM) has sent out a shelter-in-place message to residents in the immediate area of this police activity. Persons are asked to stay out of the area while officers attempt to locate the robbery suspect.

Interested media should stage at Sunshine School, located at 2700 Southeast 67th Avenue.. The Public Information Officer (PIO) is responding to the scene and will provide updates when they become available.

###PPB###

A second suspect has been arrested in connection with a robbery and shooting that occurred in April in Northeast Portland that left two people injured. On Tuesday July 18, 2017, agents with the U.S. Marshal's Fugitive Task Force arrested 24-year-old Mohamed A. Mohamed in connection with the robbery and shooting.

Mohamed was arrested on a warrant for robbery charges and lodged at the Multnomah County Jail on charges of two counts of Robbery in the First Degree, two counts of Assault in the Second Degree, and two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon. Mohamed will be arraigned on Wednesday, July 19, 2017.

The arrest is in connection with a robbery that occurred on April 18, 2017, at around 5:30p.m. North Precinct Officers responded to the report of gunfire in the area of Northeast 20th Avenue and Alberta Street and found two people suffering from injuries. One victim was suffering from a possible gunshot graze wound and a second victim was injured after being hit with a stick or bat. Both were treated at the scene by medical personnel. A canine search at the time was not successful.

During the investigation, Detectives with the Portland Police Robbery Detail located and seized the firearm used in the robbery and shooting. On Friday April 21, 2017, North Precinct officers arrested 22-year-old Stephen T. Blanchard in connection with this case.

Investigators believe Mohamed and Blanchard are the only two people responsible for this robbery.

###PPB###


Attached Media Files: Mohamed A. Mohamed

On Tuesday July 18, 2017, at 6:48 a.m., North Precinct and Traffic Division officers responded to the report of a traffic crash at North Lagoon Avenue near North Basin Street involving a motorcycle and a school bus.

Officers and medical personnel arrived and located the crash scene where they learned a motorcyclist and school bus collided. The male adult motorcyclist had suffered traumatic injuries. The motorcyclist was transported to an area hospital by ambulance with life-threatening injuries.

The school bus was not transporting anyone at the time of the crash.

North Lagoon Avenue is closed between North Basin Avenue and North Lagoon Avenue and will remain so for at least three hours as officers from the Traffic Division's Major Crash Team conduct a crash investigation.

The Portland Police Bureau is committed to working with our partners in government and the community to create safer streets and work towards reducing, and eventually eliminating, traffic fatalities as part of Vision Zero.

To learn more about the City of Portland's Vision Zero effort, please visit: http://www.portlandoregon.gov/transportation/40390

###PPB###

The suspect arrested after breaking into a home in the 1900 block of Northeast Klickitat Street on Monday evening has been identified as 34-year-old Joshua S. Purdue. Purdue was booked into the Multnomah County Jail on charges of Burglary in the First Degree, Robbery in the Third Degree and a Parole Violation.

###PPB###

###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###

On Monday July 17, 2017, at 6:51 p.m., North Precinct officers responded to the report of a burglary in progress at a home in the 1900 block of Northeast Klickitat Street.

When police arrived at the residence they learned the suspect had forced a door open and entered the occupied home. The homeowner confronted the suspect and the suspect fled. When the suspect ran from the residence, alert neighbors recognized that the suspect did not belong at the home he had just broken into. The neighbors were able to provide the police with a description of the suspect, his last known location and the direction he ran.

Officers, including a K9 team with Police K9 Siggi and a sergeant arrived on scene. A perimeter was established and Police K9 Siggi and his handler led officers to the suspect's location. The suspect was taken into custody in the 3200 block of Northeast 18th Avenue.

Officers and detectives from the Portland Police Bureau's Burglary Detail continue to investigate this case.

The suspect's name is not currently available. When his name is available there will be an update.



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Attached Media Files: Police K9 Siggi , Joshua S Purdue

North Precinct officers responded to the 8100 block of North Commercial Avenue, not the 400 block of North Columbia Boulevard as originally released.

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###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###

On Monday July 17, at 5:38 a.m., North Precinct officers responded to the report of a security guard being assaulted by a suspect in the 8400 block of North Commercial Avenue.

Officers arrived at the location and learned that a security guard confronted a man he believed was stealing items from the property. The security guard and suspect were involved in a brief struggle, during which the suspect retrieved a machete. The security guard moved away from the suspect; however, the suspect returned to his vehicle and crashed his truck into the security guard.

The security guard suffered non-life threatening injuries from the crash. Medical personnel arrived on scene and transported the security guard to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspect is described as a black or Hispanic male driving a black mid to late 90s Nissan pickup truck with possible front end damage and no rear license plate. The truck has plywood sheets that extend the length of the pickup bed. When the truck was last seen the bed of the pickup contained chairs.

If a person observes the vehicle or subject they are asked to contact police at 9-1-1. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact police non-emergency at 503-823-3333.

###PPB###

On Monday July 17, 2017, at 3:56 p.m., East Precinct officers responded to the report of a bank robbery at the Bank of the West, located at 8135 Southeast Division Street.

Officers arrived in the area and spoke with employees who told police that the suspect demanded money. There were no weapons seen during the robbery. After obtaining an undisclosed amount of cash, the suspect left the bank without incident.

Officers checked the neighborhood but did not locate anyone matching the suspect's description.

The suspect is described as a white male in his 50s, 5'6", and with a thin build.

Portland Police Bureau Robbery Detail detectives and Federal Bureau of Investigation agents are currently investigating this robbery.

Anyone with information about this incident should contact Portland Police Bureau Robbery Detail Detective Brett Hawkinson at 503-823-1080 or Brett.Hawkinson@PortlandOregon.gov, or the Portland office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) at 503-224-4181.

###PPB###

The Portland Police Bureau has learned 26-year-old Erin Catherine Brenneman of Southeast Portland died on July 14, 2017 at an area hospital. Erin Brenneman died from injuries she sustained when she was struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Southeast 80th Avenue and Southeast Pine Street.

Officers continue to investigate this crash. Based on camera footage, investigators believe the suspect vehicle is a dark colored mid-90s full-size four-wheel-drive pickup. As a result of the crash, the truck may have minor damage to the center of the grill or front bumper. Investigators have released a picture of a vehicle that is similar in size, shape and color to the truck involved in the crash - this is not the actual suspect truck, however.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Phil Maynard at 503-823-2216, phillip.maynard@portlandoregon.gov.

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###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###


The young woman critically injured yesterday afternoon has been identified as 26-year-old Erin Catherine Brenneman of Southeast Portland. Brenneman remains at a Portland hospital in critical condition with life-threatening injuries.

At this point in the investigation, investigators have not developed any suspect information or vehicle description.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Phil Maynard at 503-823-2216, phillip.maynard@portlandoregon.gov.

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###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###

On Thursday June 22, 2017, at 3:14 p.m., East Precinct and Traffic Division officers responded to Southeast 80th Avenue and Pine Street on the report of a female in her 20s down in the street suffering from traumatic injuries.

Officers and medical personnel arrived and located the victim, who was transported by ambulance to a Portland hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Preliminary investigation indicates that she was struck by a driver who fled the scene. At this point in the investigation, there is no suspect information.

The Traffic Division's Major Crash Team has responded to conduct an investigation into the crash.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Police Non-Emergency Line at 503-823-3333.

Updates will be provided when they become available.

The Portland Police Bureau is committed to working with our partners in government and the community to create safer streets and work towards reducing, and eventually eliminating, traffic fatalities as part of Vision Zero.

To learn more about the City of Portland's Vision Zero effort, please visit: http://www.portlandoregon.gov/transportation/40390

###PPB###


Attached Media Files: Vehicle

On Sunday July 16, 2017, at 4:19 p.m., Central Precinct officers responded to the report of a burglary in progress at a home in the 7300 block of Southwest Brier Place.

A homeowner returned to his residence to find a burglar rummaging through items inside his home. The homeowner informed police the suspect attempted to hide behind a door when the homeowner discovered the intruder. Once the suspect was confronted, he grabbed a knife from the butcher block in the residence, causing the homeowner to exit the home and call 9-1-1. Shortly after the homeowner exited the residence the burglar came outside and ran into a nearby wooded area.

Officers, including a K9 team and sergeant arrived on scene. After a 30 minute K9 search officers located the suspect and took him into custody.

As the officers continued the investigation they learned the suspect entered the residence by breaking a window and entering through the broken window.

The suspect, 50-year-old Kenneth L. Hurley, was booked into the Multnomah County Jail on charges of Burglary in the First Degree, Menacing, Theft in the Second Degree, and Theft in the Third Degree. A previous booking photograph was used for this news release as a current photograph has not been made available.

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Attached Media Files: Kenneth L. Hurley

On Sunday July 16, at 1:55 p.m., North Precinct officers responded to the report a man that had climbed a sign pole above northbound Interstate 5 at the exit for North Marine Drive.

Officers, including an Enhanced Crisis Intervention Team (ECIT) officer and sergeant, responded to the location and began talking with the man who was in a mental health crisis and uncommunicative.

Portland Fire and Rescue firefighters and paramedics responded to the scene.

An ECIT officer spoke with the man for approximately 30 minutes after which he agreed to come down from the sign pole. Once on the ground the man was walked to an ambulance and transported by to an area hospital.

Traffic on northbound Interstate 5 at exit 307 was stopped for approximately 30 minutes as officers assisted the man. All lanes of Interstate 5 are now open.

Help is available for community members struggling from a mental health crisis and/or suicidal thoughts. Suicide is preventable.

The Portland Police Bureau created a video in 2013 titled, "What if You Could Turn Back the Clock on Suicide?" It is available for viewing at https://youtu.be/_1uz3cs-HdA

The Multnomah County Mental Health Call Center is available 24 hours a day at 503-988-4888.

If you or someone you know needs help with suicidal thoughts or is otherwise in an immediate mental health crisis, please visit Cascadia or call 503-963-2575. Cascadia Behavioral Healthcare has an urgent walk-in clinic, open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., 7 days a week. Payment is not necessary.

Lines for Life is also available 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Information about the Portland Police Bureau's Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) and additional resources can be found by visiting http://portlandoregon.gov/police/bhu

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Attached Media Files: BHU

On Sunday July 16, 2017, at 5:10 a.m., East Precinct officers responded to a report of gunfire in the area of Northeast 93rd Avenue and Northeast Glisan Street.

An alert citizen reported hearing gun shots and was able to provide a description and possible location of the person suspected to have fired a gun.

Officers arrived in the area, located and devised a plan to safely contact the person described by the 9-1-1 caller. As officers spoke with the suspect they observed several items of evidence that were related to firearms. Officers continued to look in the area and located a firearm in the bed of a nearby pick-up truck.

The man, later identified as 18-year-old Bennet P. Miller, was taken into custody. Officers did not locate any damaged property or injured persons as a result of the reported gunfire. The firearm and additional evidence was seized as part of the investigation.

Miller was booked into the Multnomah County Jail on charges of Discharging a Firearm in the City. Miller will be arraigned on Monday.


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Attached Media Files: Bennet P. Miller

On Saturday July 15, 2017, at 1:54 p.m., Central Precinct officers responded to the report of a bank robbery at the Umpqua Bank, located at 3557 Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard.


Officers arrived in the area and spoke with employees who told police that the suspect demanded money. The suspect implied he possessed a weapon but no weapons were displayed. After obtaining an undisclosed amount of cash, the suspect left the bank without incident.


Officers checked the neighborhood but did not locate anyone matching the suspect's description.


The suspect is described as a white male in his 40s, 5'8", with a thin build, and bald.


Portland Police Bureau Robbery Detail detectives and Federal Bureau of Investigation agents are currently investigating this robbery.

Anyone with information about this incident should contact Portland Police Bureau Robbery Detail Detective Brett Hawkinson at 503-823-1080 or Brett.Hawkinson@PortlandOregon.gov, or the Portland office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) at 503-224-4181.


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On Friday July 14, 2017, the Portland Police Bureau's Sex Trafficking Unit (STU) arrested a 39-year-old man in connection with online luring of a child.

Kevin M. Jones of Portland was arrested and booked into the Multnomah County Jail on charges of Luring a Minor (16 counts), Online Sexual Corruption of a Minor in the Second Degree (two counts), Online Sexual Corruption of a Minor in the First Degree, Attempt Sexual Abuse in the Third Degree, Attempt Sodomy, and Attempt Rape in the Third Degree.

The investigation started last week in Douglas County, Oregon, when Jones made online contact with an undercover law enforcement official posing as a minor. During the investigation, law enforcement identified Jones as the suspect and that he lived in Portland. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office contacted the Portland Police Bureau and informed the Sex Trafficking Unit of Jones.

A Portland Police Bureau Sex Trafficking Unit officer posing as a minor made contact with Jones. During online correspondence, Jones made arrangements to meet the undercover officer at a parking garage in the Lloyd District to perform sexual acts. Jones arrived at the parking garage and was arrested by officers with the Portland Police Bureau's Sex Trafficking Unit and agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

After Jones was arrested, Sexual Trafficking Unit officers and FBI agents served a warrant at Jones residence, located in the 5800 Block of Northeast Going Street.

Detectives believe there may be additional victims. If you have information regarding Jones or are a victim, please contact Sergeant Norm Staples with the Portland Police Bureau Sex Trafficking Unit at 503-255-0118 or 503-545-3391.

Sex trafficking and prostitution are not victimless crimes. Victims of sex trafficking and prostitution are forced, coerced, and manipulated into this lifestyle against their will. They are forced to suffer through physical, sexual, and mental abuse. The Portland Police Bureau, in conjunction with other Federal and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to deterring prostitution and sex trafficking activities.

If you know or think that someone may be involved in trafficking or is being exploited, please contact the Portland Police Bureau's Sex Trafficking Unit at 503-255-0118, the Sexual Assault Resource Center hotline 1-800-640-5311; or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, 1-800-843-5678 or via the Cyber Tipline: http://www.missingkids.org/CyberTiipline


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Attached Media Files: Kevin M. Jones

This was the 23rd traffic related fatalities in 2017, not the 19th as previously released.

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###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###

The driver who died in the Thursday mornings crash at North Broadway and North Benton Avenue has been identified as 33-year-old Justin Thomas Hauser of Vancouver, WA.

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###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###


On Thursday July 13, 2017, at 12:48 a.m., North Precinct officers responded to the report of a traffic crash involving a driver striking a pole near the intersection of North Broadway and North Benton Avenue.

Officers and medical personnel arrived to find the crash scene and one person in the crashed vehicle. Fire and medical personnel extracted the driver from the vehicle in order to render him medical aid; however, the driver died at the scene.

This is a single vehicle crash into a pole and speed is believed to be a factor.

The Traffic Division's Major Crash Team responded to conduct an investigation. North Broadway and North Benton Avenue should reopen to traffic shortly as investigators conclude the on-scene investigation.

Updates will be provided when they become available.

This is the 23rd traffic related fatality in the City of Portland this year. In the last three weeks there have been nine traffic related fatalities.

Traffic fatalities are preventable. The Portland Police Bureau is committed to working with our partners in government and the community to create safer streets and work towards reducing, and eventually eliminating, traffic fatalities as part of Vision Zero.

To learn more about the City of Portland's Vision Zero effort, please visit: http://www.portlandoregon.gov/transportation/40390

###PPB###

A Salem man has been arrested on multiple charges and warrants following a burglary incident where a gunshot was fired.

The incident began at approximately 5:30 pm on July 20 when Salem Police Officers were called to a residence in the 900 block of Vista Ave SE on a report of an active burglary. Initial reports were that a resident had returned home and interrupted a burglary in progress. When the resident confronted the suspect, the suspect fled and a gunshot was soon heard from the area where the suspect was last seen. Several officers converged on the scene, and the suspect was seen running away, but failed to comply with officers' commands to stop. The suspect was eventually located near a residence in the 800 block Fairview Ave SE and taken into custody without further incident.

The investigation has shown that the suspect burglarized the residence and removed several items. Among those items were firearms, which he placed in one of the victim's vehicles at the scene and attempted to steal that vehicle. As he was fleeing from the scene and the victim, the gunshot was fired from a handgun that he had stolen. He also discarded several items of stolen property as he was fleeing, which were later recovered and returned to the victim. Nobody was injured in this incident.

As detectives continued with this investigation, they developed probable cause to arrest the suspect on an additional burglary that occurred on July 17 at an auto wrecking yard in northeast Salem. In that incident, the suspect broke into the office of the business and stole several items.

The suspect in this case has been identified as 20-year old Cody Allen Baird of Salem. He was transported to the Marion County Corrections Facility and booked on charges of Burglary in the First Degree, seven counts of Theft in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree and Unlawful Use of Motor Vehicle. For the burglary from July 17, he was charged with Burglary in the Second Degree, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree and Theft in the Second Degree. Baird also had warrants for his arrest for two counts of Burglary in the First Degree, two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Unlawful Possession for a Firearm and Coercion.

The victims in the incident on Vista Ave have asked that their information not be released and request no contact from media.

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The Salem Police Department celebrated the promotions of a Sergeant to the rank of Lieutenant and an officer to the rank of Corporal, and also presented several department members with awards based on exemplary actions in our community.

Salem Police Chief Jerry Moore presided over ceremonies at the Salem Library on Monday afternoon:

Officer Kristy Fitzpatrick was promoted to the rank of Corporal. Corporal Fitzpatrick is a combat veteran with the US Army and was hired by the Salem Police Department in 2008. Since being with the Salem Police Department, Corporal Fitzpatrick has been a Field Training Officer, on the Tactical Negotiations Team, Trauma Team, Recruiting Team and has worked on the Mobile Crisis Mental Health Team. Corporal Fitzpatrick will be assigned on patrol.

Sergeant Jeff Barratt was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Lieutenant Barratt is a US Army Airborne Infantry veteran and began his law enforcement career with the Marion County Sheriff's Office in 1993. He came to work for the Salem Police Department in 1996. As an officer with the Salem Police Department, Lieutenant Barratt worked on patrol and as a detective in the Street Crimes Unit and Drug Activity Response Team. He was also a Field Training Officer, Firearms Instructor and member of SWAT. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2007 and worked as a patrol Sergeant, as a Sergeant in the Street Crimes Unit and as a Sergeant in Internal Affairs. Lieutenant Barratt is also a Department Rangemaster and armorer.

Chief Moore then presented the following awards and recognitions:

Officer Brandon Howe was presented with a Lifesaving Award for his actions on June 20, 2017 when he responded to the Holiday Lodge on a report of an unconscious subject. Officer Howe found a male who was not breathing and had no pulse. Officer Howe immediately began CPR and continued for several minutes until he was relieved by medics. The subject eventually got a pulse and was transported to the hospital. Officer Howe's quick thinking and actions saved the subject's life.

Officer Erik Ammon was presented with a Lifesaving Award for his actions on April 26, 2017 when he responded to a call of a person in the Mill Creek. The victim was clinging to a piece of rusty metal strapping that was protruding from a bridge support. Officer Ammon lowered a throw rope from his patrol vehicle, and with the assistance of others, was able to help the victim towards the shore. However, due to the nature of the shore, Officer Ammon and others hoisted the victim up and over the bridge railing to safety. Officer Ammon's quick thinking was able to save the victim from the swift moving water on a rainy night and keep him from succumbing to the cold and being swept away.

Officers Daniel Claxton and Branden Smith were presented with a Lifesaving Award for their actions on April 2, 2017 when they responded to a report of an overdose in the back seat of a vehicle. Upon the arrival of Officers Smith and Claxton, they found the victim unconscious with no noticeable pulse. They removed the victim from the vehicle and immediately began to perform CPR, continuing to do so until relieved by medics. Medics were able to establish a pulse for the victim, and Officers Claxton and Smith were credited for keeping him alive during the incident.

Officer Joe Miller and Corporal Gerrit Roelof were presented with a Lifesaving Award for their actions on February 16, 2016 when they responded to a call of a subject who was throwing bricks down from the roof of a building. The subject was in the midst of a mental health crisis and contemplating suicide from the roof when Officer Miller and Cpl Roelof arrived. Cpl Roelof and Officer Miller worked closely together from a dilapidated and dangerous staircase and spoke with the subject for nearly an hour, managing the subject's changing moods, and eventually convincing him to come down to safety and necessary treatment for his crisis. The patience, skill and diligence displayed by Cpl Roelof and Officer Miller to work with this distraught person likely saved the life of the person in crisis.

Officers Matthew Gill and Vance Cooney were presented with a Letter of Recognition for their actions on February 16, 2016 when they responded to a domestic disturbance. A young boy and his younger sister were hiding in a closet as the boy was describing to dispatchers the sounds of the brutal assault of his mother at the hands of his brother. The boy went on to tell dispatchers that he thought his brother was taking a shower. Unfortunately, the boy had provided an incorrect address, and Officers Gill and Cooney approached the wrong house. However, Officer Gill noticed that the next door residence had children's bicycles in the yard and approached that residence. They noticed the suspect in the front window who was wet as if he had just taken a shower and gave him commands to come to the door. The suspect did not comply with commands, and Officer Cooney kept the suspect engaged through the window as Officer Gill forced entry into the residence. Officer Gill, knowing that the young caller and his sister were hiding in the closet of a bedroom, immediately proceeded to find them and assure their safety as Officer Cooney detained the suspect. Officer Gill then held the children and spoke calmly with them as he covered their eyes as he was removing them from the residence so they could not see their mother, who was now deceased and laying of the floor. Officers Gill and Cooney, with their quick thinking and decisive actions, potentially saved these young children from possible harm at the hands of their violent brother, and by shielding the children from seeing their deceased mother in that situation, likely helped to reduce some of the trauma that these young children experienced.

Sergeant Kevin Hill and Officer Omar DeMarco, both members of the Downtown Enforcement Team, were presented with a Letter of Recognition for their compassion in engaging and assisting an elderly and disabled member of our community. Sgt Hill encountered this gentleman on a sunny afternoon as he sat on a bench in downtown Salem. As Sgt Hill spoke with the gentleman, he told Sgt Hill that his disability payments had stopped and because his Social Security payments were much less, he had lost his residence and was now living on the street. Sgt Hill contacted the Salem Housing Authority for assistance and was able to work with them to secure an apartment for the gentleman. Finding that his only possessions were a walker and a backpack with limited personal items, Sgt Hill and Officer DeMarco contacted the Union Gospel Mission store, and they agreed to provide furniture and other furnishings for the gentleman's apartment. Officer DeMarco moved all of the donated items to the gentleman's second floor apartment and assembled it for the gentleman. This gentleman was not creating any problems in the downtown area and was not asking for assistance. Sgt Hill and Officer DeMarco took the time to engage this person in conversation and went above and beyond their typical duties and assisted a member of our community in finding a safe home.

Corporal Mike Baskett was presented with a Letter of Recognition for an extensive investigation that he conducted in 2015. Corporal Baskett was assigned as a Corporal in the Property Crimes Unit at the time, and was assisting the US Marshal's Service when they requested the assistance of the Salem Police Department. They had taken an escaped fugitive into custody in Salem and believed that he had been driving a stolen vehicle. Corporal Baskett, through his investigation, was able to confirm that the vehicle was stolen and recovered a stolen handgun from the truck in the process of the recovery. However, he also found some jewelry and what appeared to be display cases that stores use to display jewelry and other duffle bags and closed containers. Cpl Baskett obtained a search warrant to further search the truck and these items, meticulously went through each item, and was able to identify numerous pieces of stolen property from criminal incidents from North Carolina to Colorado. Corporal Baskett contacted the victims of the crimes, created a timeline of the suspect's movements throughout the country and linked him to several burglaries. He was able to return stolen items to several of those victims. Corporal Baskett wrote numerous case reports and made CDs of his investigative actions and sent them to several different jurisdictions, allowing them to complete their investigations and have appropriate charges filed against the suspect. If not for Corporal Baskett's diligence these criminal acts may have never been resolved and considerable stolen property would not have been returned to victims.

Detectives Scott Nowning, Jeff Staples and Mark Williamson were presented with Letters of Recognition for the in-service training that they provided to the rest of the Salem Police Department in 2016. Detectives Nowning, Staples and Williamson created and presented training on the investigation of child abuse cases, particularly those where child victims are too young to be able to articulate their injuries. The training was described by members of the department as "impressive," and Chief Moore commented "That class is exactly what In Service Training is all about." The passion and expertise that Detectives Nowning, Staples and Williamson displayed have been instrumental in keeping children in our community safe.

Officer Gary Engler was presented with a Distinguished Service Award for his expertise in the area of Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII) investigations. Officer Engler is an active patrol officer, but is often called upon by officers and supervisors alike to assist others in DUII investigations. He freely offers his assistance and expertise to other officers and other departments as well, providing his insight and knowledge of case law and issues related to driving while impaired. He has consistently led the Salem Police Department in DUII arrests, and his quality investigations have been instrumental in the quick resolution of these cases in the Courts. Officer Engler's passion for DUII investigations has potentially saved untold numbers of lives and injuries.

Members of the Criminal Investigations Section were presented with a Unit Letter of Recognition for their work in investigating four major incidents over a thirteen-day period in which eight individuals were shot and three killed as a result of gun violence in July, 2016. This thirteen day period of investigations was unprecedented in the history of the Salem Police Department, and it was through the tenacity of the investigators that these cases were resolved in a timely manner.

The first incident was on July 9, 2016 when an individual was shot near a nightclub in south Salem. With little in the way of initial investigative leads, detectives were able to develop suspect information and the suspect was arrested less than 24-hours after the shooting.
The second incident occurred six days later at a residence in west Salem. In this incident a fight broke out between two subjects and one was fatally shot. Detectives had to work through several varying stories and claims by several different people, but the suspect was ultimately arrested and convicted in the incident.
The third incident occurred three days later on July 18 with a dispute between gang members that turned deadly at a nighclub. The suspect pulled a gun and shot at rival gang members, injuring four people and killing a person who was not involved with any of the subjects. There were over 100 hundred people contacted in this investigation and an extensive crime scene processed. Despite the extensive scene and number of involved persons, detectives were able to locate and arrest the suspect less than 48 hours later.
The fourth incident occurred on July 22 as the search for the suspect in the previous incident was underway. This incident occurred at a bar in southeast Salem when the suspect shot another person in the head. With the use of surveillance video, crime scene processing and numerous interviews, detectives were able to piece together what had happened and ultimately present the case to the District Attorney's Office.

The investigators receiving the Letter of Recognition were: Sergeant Gordon Albert, Corporal Jake Burke, Corporal Mike Baskett, Detective Jeff Staples, Detective Mark Williamson, Detective Jamie Vasas, Detective Tony Vandekoppel, Detective Dustin Wann, Detective Scott Nowning, Detective Tom Johnson, Officer Brandon Ditto and Officer Rob Johnston.

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ESTACADA: No new crimes were reported in Estacada yesterday. Woo hoo!

SANDY:

On 07/19/2017 at about 1738 hrs., police responded to the intersection of Meinig Avenue and Proctor Boulevard regarding a 2 car motor vehicle crash. A report is pending (CAD).

Sandy & Estacada Police Log - 07/18/2017

ESTACADA:

1C 2017-1224

On 07/18/2017 at about 0739 hrs., police responded to the area of SE 4th Avenue and Ginseng Drive regarding a suspicious person. Officers arrested Jonathan R. Hogenson (36, of Eagle Creek) for possession of methamphetamines. He was lodged at Clackamas County Jail on $10,000 bail.


SANDY:

18 2017-1226

On 07/18/2017 at about 0946 hrs., police received a report about a phone found in a parking lot. After an attempt to find the owner yielded no results, the phone was placed in the property locker for safe keeping.

18 2017-1227

On 07/18/2017 at about 1039 hrs., police received a report about theft of mail in the 39000 block of Wall Street. A report was taken.

18 2017-1228

On 07/18/2017 at about 1210 hrs., police responded to the intersection of Highway 26 and Ruben Lane regarding a two-vehicle crash. One driver was cited for a dangerous left turn.

18 2017-1229

On 07/18/2017 at about 1236 hrs., code enforcement arranged a tow for an abandoned vehicle on Bornstedt Road near Highway 211.

18 2017-1230

On 07/18/2017 at about 1708 hrs., police responded to a multi-car motor vehicle crash in the 38000 block of Highway 26. A report is pending (CAD).

18 2017-1232

On 07/18/2017 at about 2211 hrs., police responded to the intersection of Barker Court and Gary Street regarding a disturbance. Officers arrested Jared C. Joseph (33, of Sandy) for possession of methamphetamine. He was lodged at Clackamas County Jail on $10,000 bail.

Sandy & Estacada Police Log - 07/17/2017

ESTACADA:

1C 2017-1221

On 097/17/2017 at about 1104 hrs., police received a report about a theft that occurred the previous Friday in the 100 block of SW Frontage Road. A report was taken.

1C 2017-1223

On 07/17/2017 at about 2333 hrs., police responded to a report of a prowler in the 300 block of SW Lakeshore Drive. Officers contacted two subjects associated with a vehicle matching the description from the prowler call. Kenneth L. Wood (25, of Estacada) and Aaron G. Hecht (45, of Estacada) were identified and arrested on felony warrants. They were transported to Clackamas County Jail, where they were lodged on no bail.


SANDY:

18 2017-1219

On 07/17/2017 at about 1111 hrs., police received a report about theft in the 36000 block of Highway 26. A report was taken (CAD).

Sandy & Estacada Police Log - 07/13/2017-07/16/2017


ESTACADA:

1C 2017-1208

On 07/13/2017 at around 2041 hrs., police were dispatched to a dog bite in the 1000 block of N Broadway Street. A report was taken and code enforcement was notified.


SANDY:

18 2017-1209

On 07/13/2017 at 2219 hrs., Sandy Police and Sandy Fire Department were dispatched to a non- injury vehicle crash at the intersection of Highway 26 and Ruben Lane. One of the vehicles involved in the crash was able to be driven from the scene, while the other was towed. No citations were issued.

18 2017-1210

On 07/14/2017 at about 0801 hrs., police responded to a disturbance in Meinig Park. Officers met with a young couple who was sleeping in the park and had an argument. It was determined crimes had not been committed. Both parties were excluded from all city parks for the next 30 days for violating the no camping rules.

18 2017-1211

On 07/14/2017 at 1111 hrs., police took a report about a stolen vehicle from the 38800 block of Barlow Parkway. The vehicle was entered into LEDS/NCIC as stolen.

18 2017-1212

On 07/14/2017 at 1200 hrs., Clinton S. Samuel (39, of Sandy) was arrested in Meinig Park on a warrant for Assault IV, Menacing, and Harassment. He was also trespassed from all city parks for the next 30 days for camping in the park. Samuel was lodged in the Clackamas County Jail on $40,000 bail.

18 2017-1213

On 07/14/2017 at about 1950 hrs., officers responded to a report of a juvenile threatening a parent with a knife in the 39000 block of Cascadia Village Drive. All involved parties were interviewed, and the child placed with another parent. This report will be forwarded to the Clackamas County Juvenile Department for review.

18 2017-1214

On 07/15/2017 at about 0130 hrs., a parent came to the police department to report a child as a runaway. The juvenile was entered into state and federal databases.

18 2017-1215

On 7/15/2017 at about 2007 hrs., a DHS worker reported that a juvenile in her custody ran away near Meinig Park. The juvenile subject was entered into appropriate databases as a runaway. The investigation is ongoing.

18 2017-1217

On 07/16/2017 at about 1715 hrs., police took Cortney S. Carlile (20, of Gresham) into custody as she had multiple warrants for her arrest (PCS-Meth, False Info to Police, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Unauthorized use of Motor Vehicle, Theft 2, Unlawful Entry into Motor Vehicle). She was taken to Clackamas County Jail and was held on $95,555 bail.

18 2017-1218

On 07/16/2017 at about 1920 hrs., police responded to a disturbance in the 37000 block of Dubarko Road. An adult subject was taken into custody on a detox hold and was transported to the Hooper Sobering Center in Portland. Additional charges will be referred to the Clackamas County District Attorney.

On Friday July 14th at 10:16 AM Sheridan Fire District was dispatched on a residential structure fire at 1439 W Main St. Initial information indicated everyone had exited the building and there was light smoke showing from in the home. Upon arrival crews observed smoke coming from the structure but no active fire. One occupant reported that everyone was able to get out, the fire was in the kitchen and had tried putting it out with the garden hose from outside the structure. Firefighters from Sheridan and West Valley Fire Districts worked quickly to locate the source of the smoke and fire and quickly got the situation under control. There was significant damage to a portion of the kitchen and the attic directly over it. The remainder of the home did receive some smoke damage as a result of the fire but that was the extent of the fire damage. The cause was determined to be a cooking oil fire on the stove.
The Sheridan Fire District would like to thank the crews from West Valley Fire District and the Sheridan Fire District for their rapid response and hard work. Sheridan Fire District would also like to thank Amity Fire and McMinnville Fire for moving up their crews and apparatus to help cover Sheridan and West Valley's Districts while we dealt with this incident. We really appreciate the cooperative nature of our surrounding districts and departments.
We would like to talk about three important things about this incident. The First is the importance of knowing your escape plan. All the residents of this home met out by their car and made sure to stay together and we would like to applaud them for having a plan. While they did attempt to put the fire out they also didn't delay calling 911 to get help coming. Cooking with oil is a great way to cook but it comes with additional risk of fire. We recommend having an extinguisher ready and to be careful about splashing or spilling any of the hot oil to prevent it from igniting and following the instructions from the manufacturer of the oil and any devices used in the process. Instead of dropping things into the oil it is better to slowly lower them in and pay close attention to prevent your food from burning and possibly igniting as well. Never attempt to carry or move the oil if it should catch on fire or while it is still hot. Oil fires are best handled by smothering it with a lid or using an extinguisher on it.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/5558/106189/silofirefighter.jpg

Today at noon, the Tigard Rotary Club will begin the installation of a Peace Pole located just outside the northeast corner of the Tigard Police Department. The pole is one of 130 being planted around the metropolitan Portland area. They're intended to serve as a symbol that peace is possible.

The wooden poles display the message, "May Peace Prevail on Earth,'' in English and several other languages. A Peace Pole is a hand-crafted monument that displays the message and prayer on each of its four or six sides, usually in different languages. There are tens of thousands of. Peace Poles in 180 countries all over the world dedicated as monuments to peace.
Please consider joining us for the Peace Pole dedication.

Tonight at approximately 7:20 p.m., a cougar was observed on the fringes of Cook Park in Tigard. Several park users spotted the cougar laying in a semi-marshy area on the outskirts of the park. The cougar was then observed walking into a heavily wooded and vegetated area nearby.
The witnesses contacted Tigard Police to report.

Tigard Police contacted the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regarding the sighting. The agency recommends that all park and trail users in the area be cautious. Concerns were expressed by the agency that it appeared the cougar is becoming more comfortable near populated areas. Officials also recommend using parks or trails with others and refrain from being alone in those areas. Tigard Police also urge adults to keep children under close supervision when outdoors.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife compiled information related to cougars in populated areas. Here is the link: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlife/living_with/cougars.asp

If anyone observes a cougar-they are urged to call 9-1-1 to report it immediately.


Attached Media Files: Area where cougard was spotted

Tualatin Police are asking for the public's help in identifying the male and female shown in the attached pictures. On the evening of June 5, 2017, the suspects fraudulently used a stolen credit card at the Lake Oswego Walgreens, located at 17850 SW Lower Boones Ferry Road.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Det. Messina with the Tualatin Police Department at 503-691-4843 and reference case #17-1562.

No further information at this time.


Attached Media Files: 17-1562 , 2017-07/858/106280/17-1562-2.jpg , 2017-07/858/106280/17-1562-1.jpg

Shortly after 4 p.m. today, 911 dispatchers received a call regarding several hundred gallons of an unknown chemical that had spilled into a storm drain at Peterkort Towne Square, located at the corner of Barnes Road and Cedar Hills Boulevard. TVF&R firefighters from several nearby stations responded to the call along with our Hazardous Materials Team, which is based out of Progress and Tualatin and part of the State of Oregon Regional HazMat Team.

Upon arrival of the first incoming crews, they found nearly 200 gallons of a 500 gallon barrel of Ultramine, a chemical that decreases the rate of corrosion on aluminum, had spilled into a storm drain behind several local businesses in the town center. As a precaution, the HazMat team instructed firefighters to create an evacuation zone of 175 feet around the spill until they could confirm chemical components and ensure safety of the surrounding area. Occupants of adjacent businesses were asked to shelter in place, which restricted them from exiting out the back doors of their businesses where the spill had occurred. Customers and workers could still access the businesses through their front doors.

Once the HazMat team arrived, they were able to determine that the chemical was not creating an immediate danger for the surrounding area. They continued to keep the area closed off to ensure no one would come in physical contact with the chemical. With the assistance of City of Beaverton's Public Works crews, they confirmed that the storm system is confined to the Peterkort Towne Square property and that the chemical did not leave the property. A private contractor will flush the entire storm system on the property as a precautionary measure to ensure the system is clear of the chemical.

The 500-gallon barrel was being delivered to a local business that provides shipping and mailbox services. Upon delivery, the barrel was transferred to a lift gate on the back of the delivery truck where the barrel tipped over and fell from several feet up. This resulted in the leaking of the chemical onto the pavement, which made its way to a near by storm drain with a catch basin that contained most of the chemical.

There were no injuries as a result of this chemical spill and the contractor will continue clean up efforts into the evening hours. In the meantime, all businesses in the town center remain open based on their operational hours.


Attached Media Files: Peterkort HazMat Call Photo 3 , Peterkort HazMat Call Photo 2 , Peterkort HazMat Call Photo 1

At 9:42 pm Monday, crews from Elligsen Road Station 56 were called to a difficult and fast moving brush fire in the area of SW Cowlitz Drive in Tualatin. With the visualization of smoke in the distance, crews called for a full first alarm response. On arrival, crews were faced with a fast moving fire in a greenspace that bordered two homes. An aggressive fire attack stopped the progression of the fire, but not before it proceeded down a near-vertical embankment.

Crews fought the stubborn fire for nearly an hour prior to declaring the fire under control. The limited pedestrian access required firefighters to stretch in several hundred feet of hose through steep terrain to extinguish. Additionally, crews had to contend with an active railroad track, moderate winds, and poison oak. No injuries were reported.

Though faced with several challenges, firefighters were able to limit the damage to a few sections of fence adjacent to the greenspace. An estimation on area burned is approximately 100 ft x 140 ft.

With assistance from Tualatin Police Department, investigators have determined the cause of the fire to be from 2 juveniles lighting off an illegal roman candle style firework. Investigators will return to the scene in daylight today to get an accurate assessment of the area involved and determine the extent of the damage.

This serves as an important reminder of the dangers of improper and illegal use of fireworks. Additionally, with the extremely dry weather this summer, TVF&R would like to reemphasize the Burn Ban enacted on July 10.

For more information, visit our website at www.tvfr.com for more tips, including how to protect a home located in a wildland urban interface, from a potential wildfire.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1214/106195/image4.JPG

At 7:30 p.m. this evening, multiple callers to 911 reported heavy smoke and flames coming from the area of NW Highland Court and NW 313th Avenue in North Plains. Callers originally reported a shed, fence and two homes on fire. Upon arrival, crews found one home engulfed with the fire having potential to spread to the neighboring house. The incident was immediately upgraded to a second alarm in order to bring in adequate fire suppression resources.

Firefighters from Station 17 in North Plains arrived in less than four minutes after being dispatched. The crew initiated an aggressive interior fire attack and were able to confine the fire to one home.

Residents of the home were not present at the time the fire was reported and there were no pets in the house. The family plans to stay with relatives. A TVF&R investigator remains on scene to determine the cause of the fire that heavily damaged the house.

Four-person staffing was essential to containing the fire to one home. For safety reasons, it is not advisable for firefighters to enter a burning building, unless there are victims inside, without adequate resources on scene. As of June 1 of this year, TVF&R Station 17 in North Plains and Station 19 in Midway, previously Washington County Fire District 2, along with stations 20 and 21 in Newberg, increased staffing from three to four firefighters. This recent staffing increase allowed firefighters from the North Plains station to access the interior of the home prior to another engine crew arriving, which helped expedite getting the fire under control. Battalion Chief Casey Brown states, "firefighters were able to handle substantial fire conditions because of the capability of a four-person crew."

TVF&R was assisted by Hillsboro Fire and Rescue, Metro West Ambulance and North Plains Police Department.

Photo credit for picture of house with smoke and flames: Matthew LaBonte


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1214/106141/North_Plains_House_Fire_3.jpg , 2017-07/1214/106141/North_Plains_House_Fire.jpg

Update

The notification of next of kin for both victims has been completed.



Vancouver, Wash. --On July 16, 2017 at approximately 1:36 a.m., Vancouver Police responded to 1900 Fort Vancouver Way for the report of an assault. When officers arrived, they located two males outside of the complex deceased with apparent stab wounds. Dustin L. Zapel, a resident of the complex, was identified as a person of interest and a photo of Zapel was released to the media. At approximately 9:00 a.m., Zapel was seen in the area of NE 94th Avenue/NE Covington Rd. and was taken into custody.

After interviews by detectives from the Vancouver Police Department Major Crime Unit, Zapel was arrested for two counts of Murder I and one count of Attempted Murder and booked into the Clark County Jail.

Information related to the victims is not being released, pending notification of next of kin.

No additional information is available at this time.

###





The Vancouver Police Department is seeking applicants for Entry and Lateral Police Officers. If you are interested in a career with us, visit http://www.cityofvancouver.us/police/page/careers.

Update 1


The person of interest, Dustin Zapel, is in custody. The Vancouver Police Major Crimes unit is continuing the investigation and nothing further is available at this time.



The Vancouver Police are currently investigating a double homicide that occurred in the 1900 block of Ft Vancouver Way earlier this date. The investigation is in its infancy, and no more information is available to release at this time.

During the investigation, Police have identified Dustin L Zapel as person of interest. Zapel is a 35 year old white male, approximately 6'1", weighing around 185 lbs. He has brown eyes, and has a shaved head. He was last seen wearing a dark colored San Francisco 49'ers coat, black jeans and black tennis shoes. Zapel is considered armed and dangerous, and if located, should not be contacted or approached by the general public.

If you see him or now where Zapel is, please call 911 immediately.

July 21, 2017 -- A man attempted to set fire to his own duplex in Cedar Hills. He was arrested after a nearly six hour standoff.

On Thursday, July 20, 2017, at 21:05 p.m., Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a welfare check in the 12900 block of SW Gentry Lane, located in the community of Cedar Hills. Initial reports were that a male was attempting to set fire to his own duplex.

Upon arrival, smoke could be seen coming from the residence intermittently. Deputies quickly surrounded the area and began evacuating nearby homes. Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue staged fire crews in the area.

The Washington County Crisis Negotiation Unit and Tactical Negotiations Unit, both inter-agency teams comprised of members from the sheriff's office and local police departments, responded to the incident. Negotiators communicated with the suspect, 47-year-old Roy Merritt, by phone for multiple hours.

Just before 3 a.m., deputies made entry into the residence and took Mr. Merritt into custody. More than one burn pile was found inside the home, which was checked by firefighters and turned over to detectives.

Mr. Merritt was lodged at the Washington County Jail for arson in the first degree and reckless endangering.

The sheriff's office would like to thank those displaced from their homes during the incident for their patience.


Attached Media Files: Media Release (PDF) , Booking Photo , Photo

July 17, 2017 -- A dump truck failed to lower its dump bed and struck a railroad trestle. Northwest Helvetia Road near Northwest Phillips Road and the railway are closed until further notice.

On Monday, July 17, 2017, at 11:37 a.m., Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a traffic crash on Northwest Helvetia Road at the railroad trestle near Northwest Phillips Road outside of Hillsboro.

Deputies learned that a 2000 Mack dump truck, operated by V & K Construction, had not fully lowered its dump bed when it attempted to pass under the trestle. The truck struck the trestle, causing significant damage to the railway and dump truck.

The driver sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene by Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue. He was later cited for violating posted use limits, careless driving, and no seat belt.

Due to safety concerns, Northwest Helvetia Road will be closed from Northwest Grossen Drive to NW Dierdorff Road until further notice. Drivers are asked to use alternate travel routes.

The railway, which is in active route operated by Portland & Western Railroad, is out of service until further notice.


Attached Media Files: Media Release (PDF) , Photo 2 , Photo 1

The West Linn Police Department will be deploying extra police officers in July to specifically look for impaired drivers. These extra officers will be funded with a grant through Oregon Impact.

Tips: How to Prevent Someone from Driving Drunk

The best way to prevent someone from driving drunk is to make a plan for a sober designated driver, and make sure everyone agrees to it ahead of time. If you are faced with a situation where someone who's impaired is trying to drive, here are some tips on how to stop them:

Be as non-confrontational as possible.
Suggest alternate ways of getting to their destination-a cab, a sober driver, public
transportation.
Remember that the person you are talking to is impaired-talk a bit more slowly and explain
things more fully than if you were talking to a sober person.
Explain that you don't want them to drive because you care and you don't want them to hurt
themselves or others.
Suggest that they sleep over.
Enlist a friend to help you or to act as moral support-it's more difficult to say "no" to
two (or three or four) people than one.
If possible, get the person's keys. It is far easier to persuade the potential driver when
you hold this leverage.
If all else fails, call law enforcement. It's better to have a friend arrested than injured
or killed.

The Oregon Clinic's New Pulmonary Vascular Institute is the First Nationally Accredited in the NW

Portland, OR -- July 20, 2017 - The new Pulmonary Vascular Institute at The Oregon Clinic brings local experts together to treat pulmonary hypertension, striving not only to provide high-quality and compassionate patient care but also to advance the field through medical research. Specialists in pulmonary medicine at The Oregon Clinic work together with patients and their families to treat pulmonary hypertension with a broad range of treatment options, unique to each patient. They collaborate with other specialists in cardiology and rheumatology to get a full picture of every individual's unique disease.

The Pulmonary Vascular Institute at The Oregon Clinic is the first in the Pacific Northwest to be accredited nationally by the Pulmonary Hypertension Association. This accreditation as a Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) Care Center means that the program demonstrates dedication to making a proper diagnosis and treatment of PH.

Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure in the lungs, and it is a common and wide-ranging condition. It can be tough to diagnose because so many of its symptoms, like dizziness, shortness of breath and fatigue, can also be attributed to other conditions. On top of that, most doctors do not have a lot of experience diagnosing and treating it. The Oregon Clinic, the largest private specialty physician practice in Oregon, created the Pulmonary Vascular Institute to bring together expertise in this particular disease.

"We've brought together doctors from different specialists to form our team, bringing a variety of viewpoints and expertise for our patients," said Dr. Butler, The Oregon Clinic. "Each patient is unique, so their treatment plan should be too."

So what treatments should patients expect?

"We like to say our approach goes beyond the prescription pad," explained Dr. Hataya Poonyagariyagorn, The Oregon Clinic. "Treatments can really vary from patient to patient. It's common that some kind of medication is recommended, but often changes in lifestyle, nutrition and exercise can be big contributors to managing this disease." That type of personalization ensures that each patient's treatment plan fits his or her lifestyle and specific needs.

"We still have so much to learn about this disease, so research is a really important component of our collaboration," explained Dr. Wayne Strauss, The Oregon Clinic. "Patients working with us often have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials, giving them access to cutting-edge care and contributing to advancements in the field."

To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit www.oregonclinic.com/PVI.


###

About The Oregon Clinic
The Oregon Clinic is the largest private specialty physician practice in Oregon. Approximately 350,000 patients receive respectful, compassionate care from our nearly 250 providers in more than 30 specialty areas each year. Founded in Portland in 1994, The Oregon Clinic is committed to delivering the highest quality patient care, practicing evidence-based medicine, and providing leadership for the healthcare community. We collaborate with primary care physicians and use a team approach to address health conditions at 57 specialty clinic locations across northwest Oregon and southwest Washington. Call 503-935-8000 or visit www.oregonclinic.com for more information.

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Inspiring the next generation of leaders, NW Natural (NYSE: NWN) is awarding grants to 11 education organizations in Oregon and Southwest Washington. From early education fundamentals to higher education and technical training, NW Natural's grants, totaling $77,000 this year, will impact learners of all ages and backgrounds.

The grants are awarded by NW Natural's shareholders as part of its Corporate Philanthropy Fund. In fact, each year NW Natural gives nearly $1 million to local nonprofits supporting children and families, arts and education and the environment.

"One of the core principles of our philanthropic giving is to support kids and families at risk in our community," says Von Summers, NW Natural's community relations manager. "We're proud to recognize the tremendous work that this year's grant recipients are doing to instill a love of learning."

The 12 education service groups receiving grants from NW Natural include:

- Portland State University Foundation: $15,750 The Foundation's mission is to advance Portland State University through relationships, community, connections, and philanthropy.

- Oregon State University Foundation: $10,800 The OSU Foundation partners with Oregon State University to engage its community, inspire investment, and steward resources to enhance the university's excellence and impact.
- Portland Community College Foundation: $10,000 The PCC Foundation strives to be sure all students in our region have access to an excellent education at the college and the support needed to succeed, regardless of their ability to pay.

- Friends of the Children: $10,000
The mission of Friends of the Children is to provide the most vulnerable children a nurturing and sustained relationship with a professional mentor who teaches positive values and has attainable expectations for each child to become a healthy, productive member of the community.

- SMART: $8,000
Each year, SMART reaches thousands of Oregon children with vital one-on-one reading support and books for those who need them most.

- Junior Achievement: $5,400
The Oregon and Southwest Washington chapter of Junior Achievement inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy.

- All Hands Raised: $5,000
Serving Portland and Multnomah County, All Hands Raised works to ensure the sustained success of every child from cradle to career. The organization brings together local community stakeholders to transform children into independent, educated adults.

- Cascadia Tech Academy: $5,000
Formerly known as the Clark County Skills Center, Cascadia Tech Academy serves more than 29 high schools, private schools and home schools to offer career and technical education where jobs are in high-demand and pay well.

- Community Transitional School: $5,000
Community Transitional School provides a stable, supportive environment that promotes both personal and academic growth for children whose families are homeless, in transition and experiencing chronic poverty-related crises.

- "I Have a Dream" Foundation: $5,000
"I Have a Dream" Foundation Oregon provides long-term support to children and youth living in under-resourced communities to achieve their full potential by promoting -- from an early age -- the values of higher education and career success, with opportunity guaranteed through financial resources and other services.

- The Library Foundation: $5,000
The Library Foundation is committed to nurturing a lifelong relationship with learning and libraries for each person in our community.

- Schoolhouse Supplies: $5,000
Schoolhouse Supplies is an award-winning nonprofit that supports public education in Portland by giving students and teachers free classroom supplies.

Learn more about NW Natural's corporate philanthropy efforts and the 2017-2019 Nonprofit Programs of Focus.

About NW Natural
NW Natural (NYSE:NWN) is headquartered in Portland, Ore., and provides natural gas service to about 730,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in Oregon and Southwest Washington. It is the largest independent natural gas utility in the Pacific Northwest. Additional information is available at www.nwnatural.com.

# # # #

Media Contact: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tom Gauntt, Pacific Power July 17,2017
503-813-7291

Renewing Community with Green Projects
Deadline is Sept. 29 for getting your community's project considered
PORTLAND, Ore. -- For more than a decade, Pacific Power's Blue SkySM customers have made a big difference on the green power map by personally choosing to support renewable energy. This includes partnering with community-focused organizations to put more than 100 new renewable energy projects to work in Oregon, Washington and California -- adding more than eight megawatts of renewable power capacity to the grid.
The competitive application process to select new projects is now open for this year's funding cycle. The amount of funding awarded is limited and varies each year. Since 2006, more than $10 million of Blue Sky funds have been invested in local renewable energy projects. These projects are intended to further the growth of renewable energy and offer educational and demonstration opportunities that benefit local communities.
Go to pacificpower.net/blueskyprojects for a list of previously funded projects.
To be considered in this competitive application process, interested parties must complete and submit an application form along with supporting materials by 5 p.m. Sept. 29, 2017.
Eligible renewable energy projects may include those that support technologies such as wind, solar, low-emissions biomass, wave, landfill gas, certified low-impact hydro, pipeline or irrigation canal hydropower and geothermal.
The program particularly encourages projects that:
Advance new and emerging technologies, including renewable energy systems tied to electric vehicle charging, energy storage systems or micro grid applications.
Target underserved populations (low income or rural)
Contribute to community energy resiliency and disaster preparedness
Provide robust education and public engagement plans
Are sponsored by a Blue Sky customer and/or community
Use local labor and materials
This funding is available for non-residential customers proposing projects in Pacific Power's service area. They must be locally owned with a generating capacity of less than 10 megawatts of electricity. Additionally, projects must be completed by Dec. 31, 2018.
For detailed eligibility requirements, project qualifications and application forms, please go to: pacificpower.net/blueskyfunds.
Materials may be submitted to bluesky@pacificorp.com.
###
About Blue Sky
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has ranked Blue Sky fifth or better in the nation for the 13th consecutive year in the number of customers buying renewable power. The Blue Sky Block, Usage and Habitat products are Green-e Energy certified; About 59,000 Pacific Power customers currently participate in the Blue Sky program across Oregon, Washington and California. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net/bluesky.
About Pacific Power
Pacific Power provides electric service to nearly 750,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. Our goal is to provide our customers with value for their energy dollar, and safe, reliable electricity. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with almost 1.8 million customers in six western states.

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) has more renewable power customers than any other energy company for the eighth year in a row, according to the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

PGE's Green Future program has had the largest number of renewable energy customers since 2009. In January PGE became the first and only energy company to exceed 150,000 customers enrolled in its renewable power program.

For the fifth year in a row PGE sold the most megawatt hours of renewable energy in its voluntary program, providing more than 1.5 million megawatt hours of renewable energy, twice as much as the second-place company. The full list of leading green pricing programs can be accessed at PortlandGeneral.com/NREL.

"The success of this voluntary program reflects our customers' commitment to sustainable choices that lead to a greener future," said Carol Dillin, PGE's vice president for customer strategies and business development.

PGE's program continues to grow at a strong rate. In the last two years PGE has added 50 percent more customers to its voluntary program, eclipsing the 150,000 mark in January 2017.
In addition to purchasing renewable power for their home use, PGE Green Future customers also contribute to the PGE Renewable Development Fund. Customers have helped fund more than 7.8 MW of new renewable energy generation currently installed in Oregon, with another 3 MW under construction. Projects have included solar installations on schools and community housing facilities, as well as non-profits.

Green Mountain Energy Company assists PGE in connecting customers with its Green Future program; and 3Degrees supplies PGE with the renewable power for these voluntary options.

"Our partnership with PGE has delivered unprecedented results and created remarkable growth for renewable power usage in Oregon," said Mark Parsons, Green Mountain's general manager.

For more information about PGE's renewable program, visit PortlandGeneral.com/Renewable.


Attached Media Files: Steel Bridge Solar Facility in Willamina, Oregon funded by PGE customers

The week of July 24-29 the northbound lane of Highway 99E over the Molalla River Bridge will be closed for nighttime bridge repair (7:00 pm to 6:00 am). This affects Canby Area Transit's Route 99 between the Canby Transit Center and Woodburn. Because of the detour, CAT buses will not stop at 3 of CAT's northbound bus stops: 1024 (Barlow House), 1026 (U-Haul) and 1028 (Riverside Mobile Home Park) on the first trip in the morning or the last trip in the evening. Please plan accordingly. If you have questions please call 503.266.4022.


Attached Media Files: Molalla River Bridge Closure SPANISH , Molalla River Bridge Closure ENGLISH

HUGO - Northbound I-5 traffic is slow and congested due to a wildfire near Hugo, seven miles north of Grants Pass. NB slow lane is closed to traffic to assist fire fighting efforts. Expect delays and watch for fire crews.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1202/106241/I-5_NB_MP_65_fire_July19_2017.jpg

Starting tonight at around 7 p.m., traffic on OR 99W at Adair Village will be shifted on to a temporary travel lane at milepost 74.5. The lane was constructed on state right of way to allow crews to rebuild the section of OR 99W damaged by a spill that occurred when a truck hauling fuel crashed at the location on July 7.

The temporary lane is almost 800 feet long. Two-way traffic will be flagged with a pilot car 24-7 until the repairs can be made to the highway. The rebuilding of the road will take at least one week.

Travelers should consider an alternate route or expect delays.

VANCOUVER, Wash. -- The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) has recognized the Port of Vancouver USA with six 2017 Communications Competition awards for exemplary work in community outreach and education, marketing and multimedia.

The port earned Awards of Excellence for its 2017 Lecture Series and Terminal 1 Waterfront Master Plan; Awards of Distinction for its 2016 Christmas Ships event, Terminal 5 Statement of Interest and "Happy" video, and; an Award of Merit for "1 Great Region, 3 Great Ports," a joint marketing and government affairs initiative with the ports of Camas-Washougal and Ridgefield.

"These awards recognize best practices and effectiveness in communications," said CEO Julianna Marler. "International ports are complex organizations with many stakeholders. It can be challenging to reach everyone, but we're making great strides with proactive and creative communications that help us engage with neighbors, community partners, tenants and future customers.

"I'm very proud of our staff's hard work and honored by AAPA's recognition of the quality of our communications program," said Marler.

The judges' comments included praise for the port's strategic planning and analysis, diverse use of media and attractive marketing materials.

The 2017 Lecture Series was "very well planned and measured," said judge John Scally. "I was impressed by the planning and the use of social media in promoting the events. I like the use of experts and thought leaders. The content looked very engaging."

Judge Judy Phair said the Terminal 5 Statement of Interest was a "nicely planned and executed campaign designed to meet a specific goal in a short time frame. (It had a) nice mix of social, digital (and) traditional media, (and) very extensive and well-defined metrics for evaluation."

"The waterfront pull-up banner is absolutely gorgeous," said judge Pam Shepherd in her comments about the port's Terminal 1 Waterfront Master Plan. "The photography is sharp and the design is crisp and eye-catching."

The port will accept its awards at AAPA's 106th Annual Convention and Expo in Long Beach, California, in October.

About AAPA's awards program
AAPA's annual Communications Awards Program has recognized excellence in port communications since 1966, with 15 entry classifications ranging from education programs and advertisements to videos and social media.

Entries are judged by an independent panel of experienced communications professionals on situation analysis and research; identification of audience, goals, objectives, strategies and tactics; quality/clarity of content and style; skillful use of copy, photography, design, layout and graphics; and evaluation methods used to determine communication success.

-- POV --

The Port of Vancouver USA is one of the major ports on the Pacific Coast, and its competitive strengths include available land, versatile cargo handling capabilities, vast transportation networks, a skilled labor force and an exceptional level of service to its customers and community. For more information, please visit us at www.portvanusa.com.

Portland, OR - The USAF will be monitoring the Oregon wing of the Civil Air Patrol as they conduct a state wide exercise this Saturday, July 22nd, with a collection of scenarios to train for, and test, the Oregon Wing CAP's capability and preparedness to respond.

With major natural events happening across the country, we are reminded that Oregon is also no stranger to natural disasters. From floods, windstorms, ice storms to tsunamis and earthquakes. Lately, authorities have been pushing preparedness for these various disasters with even more emphasis on earthquakes and tsunamis following major disasters across the nation and the world. Recent studies suggest that the "Big One," a 9.0+ earthquake along the Pacific Coast, could occur at any time. There is also the always-real possibility of aircraft, vehicles and people going missing in the rugged Oregon forests.

Within Oregon, the main mission incident command center will be located at Aurora State Airport with two additional teams operating out of Rogue Valley International Airport in Medford and Redmond State Airport. The CAP will conduct responses to various natural disasters; air search and rescue; and related operations that could be requested by state, local and federal authorities. CAP members and specially equipped search aircraft from around the state will comprise the Oregon CAP's ground and air crew personnel to conduct various emergency flight operations. These operations could be communications support to local authorities; search operations to locate missing persons, vehicles or aircraft; provide high resolution digital photographs; emergency medical support flights; and transporting of critical supplies, equipment and personnel among other possible responses.

In addition to adult aircrew and ground staff, the CAP will utilize its teen-aged cadet members in various ground support operations such as communications, mission base operations, ground search and rescue operations and aircraft flight line activities under the guidance of an experienced adult member.

"Our cadet members are a crucial force multiplier during our missions," said Lt Col Nick Ham, CAP incident commander for the exercise. "They perform essential tasks that have a tremendous impact on the success of our multitude of operational missions."

"The training we conduct during these monitored tests and more routine training operations during the year are important to keep our skills current, apply new technology and procedures and to train our newer members who are interested in serving their communities and their country in time of emergency," he said.

Civil Air Patrol, the longtime all-volunteer U.S. Air Force auxiliary, is the newest member of the Air Force's Total Force. In this role, CAP operates a fleet of 560 aircraft, performs about 90 percent of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and is credited by the AFRCC with saving an average of 80 lives annually. CAP's 57,000 members also perform homeland security, disaster relief and drug interdiction missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. CAP also plays a leading role in STEM/aerospace education, and its members serve as mentors to 24,000 young people participating in CAP's Cadet Programs. Visit www.gocivilairpatrol.com for more information.
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MEDIA NOTE:
Members of the media are encouraged to visit the CAP mission bases at the Medford Airport and Aurora State Airport (North end) during the exercise. No media flights will be conducted, but there will be opportunities to conduct interviews including with official USAF monitors. Advanced RSVP would be greatly appreciated at thomtra2@gmail.com.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1184/106259/Airborne-2.jpg

Portland, Ore. -- On August 28, 2017 the price of the America the Beautiful -- The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass will increase from $10 to $80 as result of the National Park Service Centennial Act P.L. 114-289.

The National Park Service Centennial Act raised the price of the senior pass (currently $10) so that it is on par with the cost of a regular annual pass (currently $80). It also authorizes a $20 annual pass for senior citizens. Increasing the onetime cost for those 62 and older to the current level of the America the Beautiful annual pass is a reasonable way to help insure our parks and federal recreation areas will remain available for future generations. As stewards, the BLM manages public lands for the benefit of current and future generations, supporting conservation.

The Senior Pass, along with five passes included in the America the Beautiful -- The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass program -- provides access to more than 2,000 recreation sites managed by six Federal agencies. The Senior Pass covers all entrance fees and standard amenity (day use) fees and may provide senior discounts for things such as tours or campsites. The pass also waives the entrance fee for travelling companions.

"The lifetime Senior Pass will continue to give seniors access to parks and public lands nationwide, and even at $80, it is an incredible value," said Jamie Connell, State Director for BLM Oregon/Washington.

Senior passes purchased before August 28 are still good for life. The current $10 Senior Pass will continue to be sold until the $80 senior pass is implemented on August 28.

Additional information about the BLM's recreation program is available online at: https://www.blm.gov/visit.

WASHINGTON -- This week, July 17-21, the Bureau of Land Management joins the Department of the Interior in celebrating the Trump Administration's "Made in America" Week. With responsibility for managing more than 10 percent of the nation's land and 30 percent of its subsurface minerals, the BLM supports American-made goods and services in many ways.

"The BLM strives to be a good neighbor in the communities we serve, while providing opportunities for economic growth as well as traditional uses such as ranching, mining, logging, energy development as well as recreational activities like hunting and fishing," said Acting Director Michael Nedd. "Public lands provide valuable, tangible goods and materials we rely on every day to heat our homes, build our roads, and feed our families, among many other activities."

In total, the BLM's management of public lands supported 374,000 jobs and provided $88 billion in economic output throughout the country in FY 2015.

The BLM's mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America's public lands for the multiple use and enjoyment of present and future generations. This includes a variety of commercial-, recreation-, and conservation-based products and services. In addition to energy-related products such as coal, oil, natural gas, and renewables, examples include:

· Non-energy minerals. Many types of non-energy minerals, including sand, gravel, dirt, and rock, are essential for everyday construction uses. The BLM issued new contract sales and use permits for nearly 20 million cubic yards of such mineral materials in 2015, with a combined value of nearly $28 million.

· Grazing. The BLM administers nearly 18,000 permits and leases held by ranchers who graze their livestock, mostly cattle and sheep, at least part of the year on more than 21,000 allotments. We manage livestock grazing on 155 million acres of public lands.

· Forestry. One-quarter of the 245 million acres managed by the BLM are forest ecosystems. Through responsible management, the BLM ensures the health and resilience of the nation's public forest lands, as well as the availability of forest products like timber. In 2015, the BLM offered 243 million board feet of timber for sale, enough to build approximately 10,500 homes.

· Helium. The Federal Helium Reserve is a resource owned by the American people and managed by the BLM. Crude helium is an important resource for technology development and other important uses related to national defense, energy, medicine, industry, and space exploration. Currently, the BLM's crude helium plant satisfies approximately 42 percent of U.S. helium demand and 15 percent of global demand.

· Recreation. BLM-managed public lands offer more recreational opportunities -- such as hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking -- than those managed by any other federal agency. Lands used for recreation (including the BLM's National Conservation Lands) contribute significantly to local economies, with BLM-managed lands receiving more than 62.4 million recreation-related visits in 2015.


-BLM-

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The BLM's mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America's public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. In fiscal year 2015, the BLM generated $4.1 billion in receipts from activities occurring on public lands.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/5514/106206/Made_in_America_Public_Lands_PR_Final_071817.pdf

On Saturday, July 29, 2017, from 10 am to 2 pm, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site's Youth Volunteer Program will host an Open House at the reconstructed Fort Vancouver. At the open house, students and adult aides from the program will demonstrate historic skills they have learned, and share what the school program has to offer for youth participants.

The Youth Volunteer Program is designed for youth ages 10 to 18, and is divided into two interacting tracks: the Dame School and the Young Engagé School. Both tracks are modeled after historic schools and other ways in which youth learned and developed skills at the Hudson's Bay Company's Fort Vancouver in the 1840s. Students in the program learn about the history of Fort Vancouver, and about everyday life in the 1800s. Students also develop hands-on skills in costumed and basic interpretation and gain practical experience in cultural demonstrations and other public programs.

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Chief of Interpretation Bob Cromwell said, "The Youth Volunteer Program at this national park is a unique and wonderful way for young people to learn about history, and to gain important skills that will help them become great volunteers at our living history events." Cromwell continued, "Many of the skills they learn in the program -- public speaking, making presentations, and communicating effectively -- will also help them excel in their academic life and future careers."

To learn more about the Youth Volunteer Program, visit https://go.usa.gov/xR3FP

What: Youth Volunteer Program Open House

When: Saturday, July 29, 2017, from 10 am to 2 pm

Where: Reconstructed Fort Vancouver, 1001 E 5th Street, Vancouver, WA 98661

Cost: $5 for adults, youth ages 15 and under are free

For Immediate Release
July 18, 2017
Contact: Linsay Hale
(503) 378-2427

Notice of Meeting

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a meeting at 10:00 a.m. on July 27, 2017 at the Public Safety Training Academy in Salem, Oregon.

Teleconference Information: (888) 273-3658; Participant Code: 4711910

The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made as soon as possible by contacting Linsay Hale (503) 378-2427.

Agenda Items:

1.Minutes for March 28, 2017
Approve Minutes

2.Discretionary Benefits of the Public Safety Memorial Fund
Determination Criteria

3. Next meeting -- October 26, 2017

Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) crews from Molalla and Lyons were at the emergency vehicle operations training facility at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem honing their driving skills with fire trainers from the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) today in preparation for the upcoming wildfire season and the anticipated crowds coming to Oregon for the solar eclipse in August.

ODF apparatus operators participated in various driving exercises at the Academy in a controlled environment with lights and sirens activated. To get the attention of drivers and crews, and hone their reaction skills, tennis balls were placed on the driving course to simulate situations that required quick actions by the driver such as a person running across a road. ODF personnel also learned what to do in case they came across a traffic collision and needed to safely manage the incident, and keep traffic flowing, until additional help arrived.

Emergency personnel around Oregon, including crews from ODF, are planning for the thousands expected to participate in various events around the state during the solar eclipse which may slow down first responders using roads and highways.

DPSST's Director Eriks Gabliks said that his organization was "glad to assist ODF when they made the request. We know the dangers involved in emergency vehicle operations and sadly know that each year firefighters around the country are involved in serious crashes." Gabliks said that data collected by the United States Fire Administration shows that "over the past ten years, the trend in the numbers of firefighters killed while responding to or returning from an incident has declined by 54 percent. In 2006 sixteen firefighters died in vehicle related incidents while in 2015 that number dropped to eight. Gabliks credits the importance this issue has received at fire agencies around Oregon and around the country. He also cited the efforts of the National Fallen Fighters Foundation and the United States Fire Administration which have provided valuable resources to aid local firefighters and DPSST.

Gabliks was proud to share "DPSST has a training facility that allows for realistic scenario training and also two full-time staff who offer emergency vehicle response training at fire stations around the state. This program was nationally recognized a number of years ago by the Congressional Fire Services Institute which presented DPSST with its Senator Paul Sarbanes Award for Firefighter Safety Programs.


United States Fire Administration
https://www.usfa.fema.gov/operations/ops_vehicle.html

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
https://www.everyonegoeshome.com/16-initiatives/3-risk-management/

Congressional Fire Service Institute
https://www.cfsi.org/


Attached Media Files: ODF driver training , ODF EVO training , ODF Code 3 , ODF DPSST , ODF Emergency Vehicle Ops , ODF Driver Training

The Oregon Home Care Commission (OHCC) is planning to meet Thursday, August 3, 2017, at 10 a.m., 676 Church Street NE in Salem. The meeting is open to the public.

The agenda includes: public testimony; Governor's Commission on Senior Services; Oregon Disabilities Commission; Oregon Association of Area Agencies on Aging and Disabilities, Oregon Self-Advocacy Coalition, Aging & People with Disabilities (APD), Community Advisory Councils and Coordinated Care Organizations updates; OHCC Legislative Committee -- bill reports; OHCC budget update; a quarterly APD update and a quarterly Homecare Worker Benefits Trusts update. There will be a working lunch, which will include: annual workers' compensation report, annual CPR/First Aid report, annual training report, quarterly registry report, quarterly traditional health worker training meeting notes, quarterly STEPS QBR referral and customer satisfaction survey results, bi-monthly STEPS report, monthly Oregon Health Plan Ombuds Advisory Council meeting notes, and monthly training/registry reports. This will be followed by a worker's classification -- workforce development update and the executive director's report.

There will be a short break, followed by an executive session, which is closed to members of the general public. In accordance with ORS 192.660(1)(d), OHCC will hold an executive session for the purpose of discussing labor negotiations with the governing body's representative. The full agenda is attached.

For those who are unable to attend in person, there is a call-in number: 1-888-278-0296; access code: 7999724 #. The commission meets on the first Thursday of every month. Visitors are welcome to these meetings. Persons needing an accommodation due to a disability should contact Joanna DeMeyer at 503-378-4984; joanna.m.demeyer@state.or.us.

About the Oregon Home Care Commission (OHCC):
OHCC ensures high-quality home care services for seniors and people with physical, intellectual/developmental and mental health disabilities. The Commission defines qualifications, manages a statewide registry and trains home care workers (HCWs) and personal support workers (PSWs). OHCC serves as the employer of record for purposes of collective bargaining for HCWs and PSWs receiving service payments from public funds.
Learn more about OHCC at www.oregon.gov/dhs/seniors-disabilities/hc and
"Like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OregonHomeCareCommission.
# # #


Attached Media Files: Full Meeting Agenda OHCC 080317

The Governor's Commission on Senior Services Executive Committee will meet on Thursday, July 27, 2017, from 1 p.m. -- 2:30 p.m. at 500 Summer Street NE, Room 165, Salem, OR. The meeting is open to the public.

The agenda includes regular commission business, new business, a discussion on the 2017 Legislative Session, and creation of the agenda for the full joint commission meeting with the Oregon Disabilities Commission taking place on August 10, 2017.

People can also call into the meeting. Conference line: 888-363-4735 Access code: 3439085.
The meeting location is accessible to people with disabilities. For questions about accessibility or to request an accommodation, please contact Rebecca Arce at rebecca.e.arce@state.or.us. Requests should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting.

For questions about the meeting, please contact: Rebecca Arce, Policy Analyst, at Rebecca.E.Arce@state.or.us, or 503-947-5019.
# # #

During the 2017 session, the Oregon Legislature passed a number of measures that strengthen quality and safety in long-term care settings. The passage of House Bill 3359 (HB 3359) provides a comprehensive approach to improving safety and quality in licensed long-term care settings. The bill provides much-needed updates in many areas around oversight, penalties, quality and provision of care for individuals residing in licensed care facilities. A special emphasis was given to the improvement of training for those who care for people with Alzheimer's Disease and other forms of dementia.

With more than 1,000 Oregonians experiencing abuse in licensed long-term care settings in a year, the bill addresses a wide variety of areas. The following list offers a brief overview of some of the topics covered. It is only a summary and not a complete list.

Oregon HB 3359:
Establishes that administrators of residential care facilities, including assisted living and memory care, will be licensed by an independent board by July 2019 following a process to establish this new requirement.
Updates amounts and caps, set in the 1970s, for civil monetary penalties for elder or adult abuse and harm within licensed long-term care settings. For incidents categorized as serious harm, the fines were raised from a maximum of $500 up to $2500.
Adopts new penalties for facilities, specifically a penalty for "Failure to report suspected abuse" and "Failure to perform corrective action noted during a survey or inspection."
Updates licensing fee amounts for residential care/assisted living facilities and nursing facilities.
Gives the Department the ability to impose an immediate suspension in residential care facilities when there is critical health, safety or welfare issue -- without waiting 10 days for a hearing.
Requires the Oregon Department of Human Services (Oregon DHS) to develop an enhanced oversight and supervision program for residential care facility oversight.
Asks for the development of a technology-based, acuity-based staffing tool for use by providers and Oregon DHS, which allows providers to determine staffing patterns based on current residents' needs.
Establishes a variety of training and certification requirements for care staff in long-term care facilities.
Adds new safety requirements, licensing options and establishes new quality metrics.
Establishes the Quality Measurement Council with representatives from the Office of the Long Term Care Ombudsman, Alzheimer's advocacy, elder rights advocate, academics with data/metrics expertise, member of Oregon Patient Safety Commission, provider association, and Oregon DHS.

The described changes and additions to existing statutes provide the legal framework to improve the quality of care and better ensure the safety and dignity of residents who reside in licensed long-term care settings. The bill is set to become law once signed by the Governor.

The main focus for the Oregon DHS Aging & People with Disabilities (APD) program is on the safety of the Oregonians we serve. APD Program Director Ashley Carson Cottingham said, "We are looking forward to working with providers and all other parties impacted by these changes to ensure high-quality care and protection for some of our most vulnerable citizens."
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Salem -- Small businesses and individuals who buy their own health insurance can now see the final approved rates for 2018 health insurance plans. The Department of Consumer and Business Services, Division of Financial Regulation must review and approve rates before they can be charged to policyholders.

These final decisions are the result of the division's rigorous review process, which included public conference calls, public hearings, and public comment. The division published preliminary decisions before the hearings. These hearings provided an opportunity for the public, health insurance companies, and the division to further review and analyze the preliminary decisions.

The final decisions are primarily unchanged from the preliminary decisions, with the exception of Providence Health Plans individual rates, which increased by an additional 2.2 percent to a total increase of 10.8 percent. This final proposed increase is still significantly less than Providence's original request for a 20.7 percent increase. This increase was due to clarifying information provided by Providence during the hearings that justified the change.

In the individual market, the division has issued final decisions for seven companies with average rate changes ranging from a 1.6 percent decrease to a 14.8 percent increase. Under the final decisions, Silver Standard Plan premiums for a 40-year-old in Portland would range from $355 to $452 a month. These premiums are for plans before financial assistance through Oregon's Health Insurance Marketplace is taken into account.

The rate changes are company-wide averages. Individuals may see different changes in 2018 depending on their specific plan choices.

"Although health insurance premiums will be increasing in 2018, for many Oregonians those increases will be offset by corresponding increases in financial help available through Oregon's Health Insurance Marketplace," said DCBS Director Patrick Allen. "Still, we know a large number of Oregonians who do not receive help will see increased costs. We are committed to continuing to work on reforms that make insurance affordable to more people."

All Oregonians who purchase their own insurance, even those who do not receive financial help in 2017, are encouraged to apply for assistance through the Marketplace in 2018. They might be surprised by what they qualify for. In 2017, Oregonians who received help with the costs of their health insurance paid on average $147 a month.

In the small group market, the division has issued final decisions for nine companies with average rate increases ranging from 3.3 percent to 10.1 percent. Under the final decisions, Silver Standard Plan premiums for a 40-year-old in Portland would range from $293 to $421 a month.

See the chart at dfr.oregon.gov/healthrates/Documents/2018-fnl-prpsd-rates.pdf for the full list of final decisions. While the decisions on the attached chart are final decisions, Moda Health Plan Inc. still has two pending rate requests that are undergoing review and are open for comment. These rates are for Lane and Tillamook counties. The company did not originally file rates for those counties, but reconsidered and filed rates to expand back into the counties.

Reasons for the rate changes include:
The new Oregon Reinsurance Program. This program reduced individual market rates by 6 percent, and added a 1.5 percent increase to the small group market.
Federal weakening of the individual mandate enforcement. This increased rates by 2.4 percent and 5.1 percent.
Medical costs continue to rise, driven by increased use and the cost of new specialized prescription drugs.
The cost of providing care continues to surpass premiums collected for many carriers.

In 2018, most counties will have at least two carriers both on and off the Marketplace and at least one carrier exclusively off the Marketplace. Two counties, Douglas and Lincoln, have only one carrier on and off the Marketplace and one carrier off the Marketplace.

"We remain concerned about the limited health plan choices some counties are facing, and will work with insurance companies throughout the next year to try to increase competition throughout the state in 2019," said Allen. "An important first step taken by the state is the creation of the Oregon Reinsurance Program. Without this program, we would be seeing counties with no Marketplace plans, and much larger rate increases for those who purchase insurance on their own in 2018."

Developed by Oregon Gov. Kate Brown and stakeholders, and recently approved by the Legislature, the Oregon Reinsurance Program is designed to stabilize the individual market, reduce rates, and encourage insurance companies to offer plans in more parts of the state. Reinsurance spreads the risk of high-cost claims so that no one carrier takes on a disproportionate share of this risk. The program is partially funded by a portion of a new 1.5 percent assessment on all commercial insurance plans.

Final rates, a summary of the state of the individual market, and the final decision information for each carrier can be found at www.oregonhealthrates.org. Statewide premium comparison tables for ages 21, 40, and 60 will be posted online in August.

###

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


Attached Media Files: 2018 Final Health Insurance Rates

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) inmate died unexpectedly early Saturday morning at Two Rivers Correctional Institution (TRCI) in Umatilla. As with all unanticipated deaths of state prison inmates, the Oregon State Police Criminal Investigation Division is conducting an investigation.

At approximately 3:38 a.m. on Saturday, July 15, 2017, Richard Bradbury, 61, was found unresponsive in his cell. Medical staff immediately began life-saving efforts to no avail. He was pronounced deceased at 4:16 a.m.

Bradbury entered DOC custody on March 15, 1994, on one count of aggravated murder and one count of arson in the first degree out of Marion County. He was serving a life sentence.

Next of kin has been notified. No other details are available at this time.

TRCI is a multi-custody prison in Umatilla that houses approximately 1,800 male inmates. TRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including institution and industrial laundry, mattress manufacturing, and sewing. Other institutional work programs include reparation and cleaning of irrigation ditches, maintenance of local baseball fields, and work with local cities and the Hermiston School District. The facility provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, religious services and behavioral health services. TRCI opened in 2000.

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Attached Media Files: Richard Bradbury

SALEM, Ore. -- On July 27 a broad-based committee will meet in Salem to discuss forestland smoke. The Smoke Management Program Review Committee will continue its task of recommending improvements for how the state can use controlled burns to improve forest health and protect nearby residents from wildfire while minimizing smoke impacts on communities to protect public health.

The public is invited to attend. The meeting will be in the Tillamook Room in Building C at ODF's Salem headquarters, 2600 State St. It will last from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with an opportunity for public comment near the end of the meeting. The meeting space is accessible to persons with disabilities. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting Chrystal Bader at 503-945-7220.

The 20-person committee was appointed by the Oregon Department of Forestry working with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. The committee is made up of forest landowners, public health representatives, the American Lung Association, forest collaboratives and environmentalist groups, county and city elected officials, the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and a tribal representative.

The committee is seeking to produce a set of recommendations for the departments of Forestry and Environmental Quality to consider. The committee's work will be presented to the Board of Forestry and the Environmental Quality Commission in late 2017. Committee recommendations will also inform potential updates to the state's Smoke Management Plan. That plan is administered by ODF and approved by the Board of Forestry and the Environmental Quality Commission. The Smoke Management Plan is part of the state's plan for implementing the federal Clean Air Act.

According to ODF records, last year controlled fires were set on 181,800 forested acres in Oregon, above the 10-year annual average of 165,999 acres. Those fires burned an estimated 1.3 million tons of woody debris. Peak burning is in the spring and fall.

The committee is expected to hold two more meetings -- one on Aug. 31 in southern Oregon and on Oct. 4 again in Salem.
# # #

CLATSKANIE, Ore. -- Firefighters from the Oregon Department of Forestry and multiple cooperating agencies have this morning fully contained a wildfire burning in logging slash and standing trees along Highway 47 near Clatskanie. About 50 personnel are on site mopping up the fire, which burned just over 29 acres before being contained. Hoses have been laid to help firefighters water down any burning debris. Investigators will be arriving on scene this morning to look into the cause of the fire. Highway 47 is now reopened.

The fire was reported Sunday at around 11:30 a.m. burning on private ODF-protected land. No structures were threatened. Sunday afternoon a 10-mile stretch of Highway 47 between mileposts 1 and 11 was temporarily closed as some 70 fire personnel from multiple agencies battled the blaze along with two helicopters and two single-engine air tankers.

ODF crews from Columbia City, Forest Grove and Astoria were aided by local fire departments from the towns of Clatskanie, Scappoose, and Vernonia as well as Washington County, Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue, Mist-Birkenfeld Rural Fire Protection District, Knappa Fire District and Columbia River Fire and Rescue, and private landowner personnel.

According to ODF records, there have been 356 wildfires statewide so far this year on the 16 million acres of land protected by the agency. The fires have burned about 442 acres of ODF-protected land. About 82% of those wildfires have been caused by humans.
# # #

The Hwy 47 MP 5 Fire was reported at 11:30 this morning at approximately 10 acres in size. Located just outside of Clatskanie, the fire is on private land protected by ODF's Forest Grove District, Columbia Unit and burning in slash. Initial attack includes ground resources and aerial support from a Type 2 helicopter. No structures are threatened at this time. The cause is under investigation.


January 1, 2017 to July 14, 2017

Lightning-caused fires: 62 fires burned 23 acres
Human-caused fires: 283 fires burned 388 acres

Total: 345 fires burned 411 acres


10-year average Jan. 1 to this date

Lightning-caused fires: 81 fires burned 5,225 acres
Human-caused fires: 254 fires burned 1,829 acres

Total: 335 fires burned 7,054 acres

The Hwy 47 MP 5 Fire was reported at 11:30 this morning at approximately 10 acres in size. Located just outside of Clatskanie, the fire is on private land protected by ODF's Forest Grove District, Columbia Unit and burning in slash. Initial attack includes ground resources and aerial support from a Type 2 helicopter. No structures are threatened at this time. The cause is under investigation.


January 1, 2017 to July 14, 2017

Lightning-caused fires: 62 fires burned 23 acres
Human-caused fires: 283 fires burned 388 acres

Total: 345 fires burned 411 acres


10-year average Jan. 1 to this date

Lightning-caused fires: 81 fires burned 5,225 acres
Human-caused fires: 254 fires burned 1,829 acres

Total: 335 fires burned 7,054 acres

The Hwy 47 MP 5 Fire was reported at 11:30 this morning at approximately 10 acres in size. Located just outside of Clatskanie, the fire is on private land protected by ODF's Forest Grove District, Columbia Unit and burning in slash. Initial attack includes ground resources and aerial support from a Type 2 helicopter. No structures are threatened at this time. The cause is under investigation.


January 1, 2017 to July 14, 2017

Lightning-caused fires: 62 fires burned 23 acres
Human-caused fires: 283 fires burned 388 acres

Total: 345 fires burned 411 acres


10-year average Jan. 1 to this date

Lightning-caused fires: 81 fires burned 5,225 acres
Human-caused fires: 254 fires burned 1,829 acres

Total: 335 fires burned 7,054 acres

Oregon Adds 8,500 Jobs in June

In June, Oregon's nonfarm payroll employment grew by 8,500 jobs, following a gain of 2,600 in May. The June increase was the largest gain since February 2016 when 9,600 jobs were added. Gains were widespread among the major industries, with 11 of the 14 industries adding jobs. Leisure and hospitality added the most, increasing by 2,100 jobs. In addition, strong hiring occurred in construction (+1,600 jobs) and manufacturing (+1,400). Financial activities was the only major industry to cut substantially, as it shed 800 jobs.

Over the past 12 months, Oregon's payroll employment rose 47,300, or 2.6 percent. This rapid pace was an acceleration from earlier in the year when over-the-year growth was hovering around 2.0 percent.

Oregon's unemployment rate was little changed at 3.7 percent in June. The rate remained near its all time low of 3.6 percent reached in May. Oregon's rate was significantly below its year-ago rate of 5.1 percent in June 2016 and well below the U.S. unemployment rate of 4.4 percent in June 2017.

Other signs of a tight labor market in Oregon include fewer long-term unemployed and falling measures of labor underutilization. The number of Oregonians who have been unemployed for more than six months dropped to 10,700 in June, the lowest on record dating back to 2002. In contrast, the long term unemployed reached a peak of more than 100,000 in 2010, during the aftermath of the Great Recession.

Meanwhile, U-6--the broadest measure of labor underutilization, which includes the unemployed, those who have stopped looking for work within the last year but still want a job, and those who are working part-time but would prefer to work full-time--dropped to 7.4 percent in June. This was by far Oregon's lowest U-6 since comparable records began in 2002, and was a continuation of its downward trend since reaching a peak of 21.1 percent in May 2009. In recent months, Oregon's labor market tightened so rapidly that Oregon's U-6 dropped below the national U-6 of 8.6 percent in June 2017.

Next Press Releases
The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the June county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Tuesday, July 25th, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for July on Tuesday, August 15th.



Notes:
All numbers in the above narrative are seasonally adjusted.

The Oregon Employment Department and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) work cooperatively to develop and publish monthly Oregon payroll employment and labor force data. The estimates of monthly job gains and losses are based on a survey of businesses. The estimates of unemployment are based on a survey of households and other sources.

The Oregon Employment Department publishes payroll employment estimates that are revised quarterly by using employment counts from employer unemployment insurance tax records. All department publications use this Official Oregon Series data unless noted otherwise. This month's release incorporates the October, November and December 2016 tax records data. The department continues to make the original nonfarm payroll employment series available; these data are produced by the BLS.



The pdf version of the news release, including tables and graphs, can be found at www.QualityInfo.org/press-release. To obtain the data in other formats such as in Excel, visit www.QualityInfo.org, then within the top banner, select Economic Data, then choose LAUS or CES. To request the press release as a Word document, contact the person shown at the top of this press release.

For help finding jobs and training resources, visit one of the state's WorkSource Oregon Centers or go to: www.WorkSourceOregon.org.

Equal Opportunity program -- auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Contact: (503) 947-1794. For the Deaf and Hard of Hearing population, call 711 Telecommunications Relay Services.


Attached Media Files: Employment in Oregon June 2017 News Release

July 21, 2017

Data show variations in amounts paid for procedures

Salem -- Reimbursement for the same procedures vary among hospitals operating in the same region and across the state, according to a new report from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). The report details the median amounts paid by commercial insurers for the most common inpatient and outpatient procedures that were performed in Oregon hospitals in 2015.

The new 2015 report includes amounts patients paid for each procedure. (The 2014 edition only included amounts paid by insurers. Including patient contributions is more transparent and represents a complete picture of amounts paid.)

The report, "Oregon Hospital Payment Report 2015," (http://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/ANALYTICS/Pages/Hospital-Reporting.aspx) is mandated by ORS 442.466. The annual report draws on data collected in the All Payer All Claims (APAC) database. The goal is to provide a source of transparency to the public on hospital reimbursement. Inpatient care accounts for as much as 30 percent of health care spending in the state.

"This report is another step forward in our state's commitment to health care transparency and a look at the important services and procedures that hospitals across Oregon provide," said Lynne Saxton, Director of the Oregon Health Authority. "

Highlights of the report include:

--Most procedures show sizable variations in paid amounts, both within and between hospitals.
--Among common outpatient procedures, heart electrophysiology studies were reported to have the highest median paid amount at $36,900.
--Among common inpatient procedures, heart valve replacement surgeries were reported to have the highest median paid amount at $84,700.
--Among common diagnostic and imaging services, nuclear medicine evaluations of the cardiovascular system were reported to have the highest median paid amount at $2,200.
--The procedure with the largest increase in median paid amount from 2014 was coronary bypass surgeries, increasing by $8,700.
--The procedure with the largest percent increase in median paid amount from 2014 was guidance procedures for radiation therapy, increasing 80 percent.

This is the second year OHA has released this report and this year's report includes important updates and improvements.

Reimbursement for a procedure in a hospital depends on a number of factors. These factors should be taken into account when comparing charges between facilities. Here are some reasons that account for variations:

--Rate negotiation: Each hospital negotiates with each insurance provider they accept for the reimbursement rate for a procedure. This paid amount will vary depending on the hospital and the insurance company.
--Case complexity: An insurance company may reimburse a hospital within a range of amounts for a given procedure up to a predetermined maximum. This range is influenced by how sick the patient is, and how many extra services were required in order to perform the procedure.
--Geographic factors: A hospital's location influences paid amounts. Communities with higher costs of living have higher salary, lease, and utilities costs. These differences in hospital operating expenses should be considered when comparing paid amounts.
--Economies of scale: Hospital volume influences the paid amount. Hospitals that perform the procedure hundreds of times will often accept a lower paid amount for each case because they make the difference up in larger volumes.

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July 20, 2017

What: The regular monthly public meeting of the Medicaid Advisory Committee

When: Wednesday, July 26, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to noon

Where: Oregon State Library, 250 Winter Street NE, Room 102, Salem. The meeting will also be available via webinar. A recording of the meeting will be posted at the Medicaid Advisory Committee's website http://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/HP-MAC/Pages/index.aspx

Members of the public can also call in to listen at:
Conference line: 1-888-398-2342 Access code: 3732275 Webinar: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4662689441953504004

Agenda: The MAC will hear a summary of the 2017 legislative session. Staff from the Department of Human Services and the Oregon Health Authority will update the committee on Integrated Eligibility efforts. The MAC will discuss and potentially finalize draft guiding principles for Oregon Medicaid (in response to federal Medicaid proposals). Carly Hood from the Oregon Primary Care Association will present an overview on social determinants of health.

The meeting site is accessible to people with disabilities. To request alternate formats, sign language interpreters, physical accessibility, or other reasonable accommodations, call the Oregon Health Authority at 1-800-282-8096 at least 48 hours before the meeting.

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July 19, 2017

What: The Tobacco Reduction Advisory Committee is holding a public meeting.

Agenda: Legislative session debrief; proposed TPEP budget overview; TPEP public comment

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

Where: Portland State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Room 1C, in Portland.

Background: The Tobacco Reduction Advisory Committee is a committee appointed by the Governor and comprised of both private organizations and state agencies dedicated to the reduction of the harmful impact of Oregonians' tobacco use.

Details: The meeting is open to the public. Please note that space is limited.

Individuals requiring accommodation may request alternate formats, sign language interpreters, physical accessibility, or other reasonable accommodations by calling the Oregon Health Authority at 1-800-282-8096 at least 48 hours before the meeting.

July 19, 2017

PORTLAND, Ore.--The Oregon Health Authority today announced the expansion of a youth marijuana use prevention campaign to a statewide audience.

That expansion will begin immediately. The goal of the Stay True to You campaign is to prevent or delay the initiation of marijuana use among Oregon's 12- to 20-year-old population.

In 2016, the Oregon Legislature instructed OHA to evaluate the effectiveness of youth marijuana prevention messaging by conducting a geographically limited pilot. That campaign lasted from June 2016 to June 2017 and took place in the Portland metro area, and Jackson and Josephine counties. RMC Research, an independent evaluation firm, found that the pilot campaign successfully raised awareness of the legal consequences of underage marijuana use and contributed to a correct perception that only 1 in 5 Oregon teens use marijuana.

"Research shows that our audience was receptive to the Stay True to You campaign," said Kati Moseley, policy specialist at OHA's Public Health Division. "With this expansion, youth and young adults statewide will hear the message that marijuana use should be delayed until adulthood or avoided entirely."

OHA developed the Stay True to You campaign using extensive audience research and focus groups. Twenty-eight focus groups were conducted in Portland, Bend, Medford and Pendleton featuring 260 youth and young adults between 14 and 20 years old. Participants from the African American, Asian and Pacific Islander, white, American Indian/Alaskan native and Latino communities were included. DHM Research (Davis, Hibbitts, & Midghall Inc.), contracted by OHA to facilitate all focus groups, conducted groups in English and Spanish between October 2015 and March 2016.

"Our focus group research showed youth and young adults are eager for more information on the effects of marijuana use," Moseley said. "Though research into marijuana use isn't as extensive as that on alcohol or tobacco, there is sufficient evidence that using marijuana can have a significant effect on developing brains."

The facts cited in the campaign on brain development and marijuana's effects on learning are based on reviews of the current science by OHA's Retail Marijuana Scientific Advisory Committee.

OHA's role following the legalization of marijuana is to educate the public about the health issues related to marijuana use; prevent youth marijuana use; and monitor marijuana use, attitudes and health effects. OHA will publish final research results of the pilot campaign evaluation late this summer.

The statewide campaign will advertise across a variety of media, but the bulk of advertising will take place on digital and streaming video to most effectively reach the youth audience. Other campaign elements include a social media presence (#StayTrueOregon), a website (StayTrueToYou.org) and promotions and outreach to organizations where youth gather.

July 17, 2017

Reduced blue-green algae and toxin levels confirmed in areas except Perry South Cove, where continued caution recommended

The Oregon Health Authority has updated the health advisory issued June 30 for Lake Billy Chinook, located about 12 miles west of Madras in Jefferson County.
The update lifts the advisory on those areas of the Deschutes and Crooked River of Lake Billy Chinook arms affected by the advisory, and confines the advisory on the Metolius Arm to Perry South Cove.
Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of blue-green algae toxins are below guideline values for human exposure. However, OHA recommends that people remain cautious when using the lake, particularly with pets because toxins are still well above the very low exposure levels established for dogs.
Oregon health officials advise recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of algae blooms in all Oregon waters, because only a fraction of the many lakes and waterways in Oregon are sampled for blue-green algae by state, federal and local agencies. People and their pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red in color, if a thick mat of blue-green algae is visible in the water, or bright green cells are suspended in the water column. If you observe these signs in the water you are encouraged to avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities.

For health information, to report human or pet illnesses due to blooms, or to ask questions about a news release, contact the Oregon Health Authority at 971-673-0400. For information about advisories issued or lifted for the season, contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://healthoregon.org/hab and select "Algae Bloom Advisories."
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July 17, 2017

What: OHA and the State Health Assessment Steering Committee will hold an informational webinar.

Agenda: Provide an overview of public health modernization; review findings from the 2016 public health modernization assessment; discuss how understanding of Oregon's public health system can be used to inform the state health assessment.

When: Monday, July 31, 2-4 p.m. The meeting is open to the public. A 10-minute public comment period is at 3:50 p.m.; comments are limited to three minutes.

Where: Join the webinar at: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/762040006992861187 . For audio dial the conference call line: 1-877-848-7030, access code 2030826#.

Oregon's revised State Health Assessment is one of three prerequisites for public health accreditation. The assessment describes the health of the population and identifies areas for improvement, contributing factors that impact health outcomes, and assets and resources that can be mobilized to improve population health.

See the following reference documents:
--Public health modernization at http://www.healthoregon.org/modernization
--2016 public health modernization assessment at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/ABOUT/TASKFORCE/Documents/PHModernizationFullDetailedReport.pdf
--State Health Assessment at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/ABOUT/Pages/state-health-assessment.aspx

Program contact: Christy Hudson, 971-673-2284, Christy.j.hudson@state.or.us

News Release
Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 19, 2017

Media Contact:
Chris Havel, Director's Office, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
Cell: 503-931-2590

Reported shark sightings in Cannon Beach and Seaside prompt advisory

Cannon Beach OR -- A person surfing off the north Oregon coast around Haystack Rock near Cannon Beach, and a visitor in Seaside both reported shark sightings Tuesday, July 18. State park staff have posted advisory signs in both areas. No injuries were reported. The beaches will remain open, and the advisory signs will stay up for several weeks at least.

As a natural, wild place, people coming to the Oregon coast can prepare themselves to enjoy the ocean shore by visiting http://respectthebeach.org/. For people using the ocean offshore, especially surfers, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department recommends consulting fellow surfers for advice since the agency doesn't manage the ocean shore below low tide. In an emergency, beach visitors should call 911 and explain their location in as much detail as possible. Many developed beach accesses have signs with names and numbers to help visitors pinpoint their location.

The size and species of the sightings are unknown, and the reports haven't been verified. More than a dozen shark species live off the Oregon coast.


Attached Media Files: Standard shark sighting sign posted in Oregon

Grand Ronde, OR - The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency will meet at Spirit Mountain Casino on August 4 to discuss issues related to ownership and management of the proposed 84-mile Salmonberry Trail corridor that will connect the cities of Tillamook and Banks. The meeting will be from 10 am to 1 pm at Spirit Mountain Casino, 27100 SW Salmon River Highway in Grand Ronde.

The agenda includes an update on fundraising efforts, status of a proposed rail banking and lease agreement, and an update on Valley segment planning.

The Salmonberry Trail will connect eight cities and two counties, passing by the Oregon coastline, fisheries, farmland and the rugged Oregon Coast Range. The route follows the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway, which closed in 2007 after massive storm damage. The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency was established to promote and facilitate coordinated direction and guidance in the planning, development and maintenance of the multi-use trail.

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

Vancouver, Wash. -- A short section of Northeast Salmon Creek Street east of Washington State University Vancouver will close next week so a contractor can shore up an unstable roadside.

Tapani Inc., a Battle Ground-based contractor working for Clark County Public Works, will repair about 50 feet of eroded stream bank immediately east of Northeast 50th Avenue.

The contractor will use riprap and gabion baskets, which are wire baskets filled with rock, to reinforce the stream bank. To minimize effects on fish and other aquatic life, the contractor will not be allowed to work in Salmon Creek until August.

Other improvements will extend 60 feet on either side of the unstable bank to better anchor the area to stable ground. A guardrail and precast concrete barrier will be installed.

The short section of Northeast Salmon Creek Street is scheduled to close Monday, July 24, with construction wrapping up in the fall. A map showing how drivers can bypass the construction zone is posted on the county's website at www.clark.wa.gov/public-works.

Clark County has notified police, fire and ambulance agencies of the upcoming construction, as well as the U.S. Postal Service.

The county awarded a $632,240 construction contract to Tapani, which submitted the lowest of three bids received. More than 85 percent of design, construction and other costs will be paid by a $650,000 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
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On Saturday, July 29, Party in the Park returns with several brand-new activities on tap for Beaverton residents.

The annual daylong festival, presented by the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District, is hosted at the Howard M. Terpenning Recreation Complex, 15707 SW Walker Road.

Party in the Park features an array of fun, family-oriented activities, most are free and run from 11 am to 4 pm; (the early-morning Family Triathlon does include a small entry fee to offset expenses).

"This event is a great way for us to say thank you to the community for its support of our programs," said THPRD General Manager Doug Menke. "We look forward to bringing families, neighbors and friends together to celebrate summer, and enjoy a small sample of the recreational activities that THPRD has been providing Beaverton residents for more than 60 years."

New activities scheduled include a puppet show and puppet-making workshop, a silent disco dance party, a rocket-building station and circus skills training.

These complement the already dizzying array of activities that includes three climbing walls, several giant inflatable toys, arts and crafts, face painting and more.

The Family Triathlon kicks off the day's activities at 9 am. This non-competitive event includes a 50-yard swim, two-mile bike ride, and half-mile run. Participants can preregister at thprd.org. This year, the event includes a free helmet fitting and replacement station.

The field activities begin at 11 am, with the Beaverton Police Department's popular K-9 unit demonstration scheduled from 11:30 am to 1 pm. The athleticism and discipline of the dogs always draws a big crowd.

Throughout the day, THPRD's Rec Mobile will offer a sampling of games and activities for guests of all ages, and THPRD's Nature Mobile will provide nature and science learning opportunities, activities and games. The Wellness on Wheels van will host group fitness activities.

Free swimming will be available at the Aquatic Center from 1:30-3:30 pm and 4-6 pm. Free drop-in tennis and instructor-led sessions are available all day, no equipment required. The Tualatin Hills Athletic Center will host drop-in basketball, badminton, volleyball and table tennis. Basketball and pickleball will also be available on the outdoor courts.

Field #5 will host bubble soccer tournaments, as well as bocce, giant Jenga, and corn hole competitions.

"This year's Party in the Park will offer more activities than ever before," said Deb Schoen, superintendent of Community Programs and Special Events. "We have introduced some really creative new ways for kids and families to enjoy a fun afternoon together."

A diverse selection of food and beverages will be offered: hamburgers, hot dogs, tater tots, gourmet sausages, pizza, kettle corn and Hawaiian shaved ice as well as Asian, East African and Mexican specialties.

Parking is free for all Party in the Park activities, but space is limited. The HMT Complex is served by bus routes 59 and 67, and bicycle racks are available. In addition, THPRD will run a shuttle between the complex and the Merlo Road/SW 158th MAX light rail station from 10:30 am to 5 pm.


Attached Media Files: The discipline and athleticism of the Beaverton Police Department's K-9 Unit is always a big draw at Party in the Park. , Among the field games to be offered again this year at Party in the Park is bubble soccer. , Parents and children participate together in the Family Triathlon at Party in the Park.

The city of Battle Ground has partnered with the WA State Department of Revenue and their Business Licensing Service to streamline the process of obtaining and renewing a city business license. Those doing business in the city of Battle Ground will now file for both a city and state business license through the state's online service.

Prior to the new streamlined process, those conducting business in Battle Ground were required to complete a paper application and return it with a check for the applicable fees by mail or in person to city hall. Obtaining the related state business license was a completely separate procedure. Starting this week, businesses will obtain and renew the required state and city of Battle Ground business licenses through the convenience of a single online process through the state's Business Licensing Service.

The city requires a business to hold a city business license if it is either physically located within city limits, or entering city limits to conduct business.

For more information about city of Battle Ground business licensing, fees, and the new online service, visit www.cityofbg.org/business-license.

BEAVERTON, Ore. -- The City of Beaverton's arts program is showcasing works at several locations through Aug. 31, including The Beaverton Building, Beaverton City Library Main and Murray Scholls, Providence St. Vincent Hospital, Cedar Hills Recreation Center, Progress Ridge New Seasons, Bogza Coffee, and the Artisan Salon. All artwork included is for sale.


THE BEAVERTON BUILDING
The Beaverton Building (12725 SW Millikan Way) features works by several artists. Members of the public can view works during office hours, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featured artists:


First Floor: Robin Becic
Once upon a childhood, Robin Becic's little boy heard a strange sound in the garden. Taking her hand, he brought her to the sound. "Look mama! Leaf laughing!" The morning rain was over, and the moisture dripping off the leaves onto the plants created this magical sound. A small moment, a child makes a connection, and mother and son shared the intimacy of a new experience. Many years later, Becic chose the studio name Laughing Leaf to serve as a reminder: our creativity is a precious gift of our perceptions, and experiences. When we share it with others we transform a moment between two individuals.


Over the years Robin Becic has worked in different media. She is currently exploring watercolor. On the side, she works in collage, makes things in mixed, and found materials; stirring up what's behind my thoughts, ideas and memories. Like most artists, Becic has her own idiosyncratic approach to the work, and embraces the learning process, moving forward in her expressive style. The act of art making becomes the dialogue between herself and the viewer in this creative journey.


Fourth and Fifth Floor: Painters Showcase
Painters Showcase is a group of twenty-five Portland area artists producing original works of art using a variety of media including oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, drawings, etchings, collage and mixed media. They embrace representational, impressionistic, and abstract art with a variety of subject matter. Their mission is:
To provide support and learning opportunities for local artists
To provide sales opportunities for the artist members
To acquaint the public with the work of local artists; and
To participate in the cultural life of the community


BEAVERTON CITY LIBRARY MAIN AND MURRAY SCHOLLS
Beaverton City Main Library (12375 SW Fifth St) and the Beaverton City Branch Library (11200 SW Murray Scholls Pl) feature works by several artists. Members of the public can view works during library operating hours. All artwork included in this show is for sale. Featured artists:


Main: Janet Lucking
Monday to Thursday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.


Janet Lucking's artwork is whimsical and vibrant, and will be on display at the Beaverton City Library through August.


Murray Scholls: Buff Holtman
Monday to Wednesday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Thursday to Sunday noon to 6 p.m.
Born and raised in Iowa, Buff Holtman has been an Oregonian since 1970. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother. After having children, she earned a degree in Art History. Suddenly, she wanted to paint rather than read about it. In the beginning, she used oils and tried to paint like the masters. It was difficult. Even so, the desire to paint was strong so she kept trying. When Holtman found mixed media, a whole new world opened up for her and mixed media was the beginning of her creating.


Painting and stamping tissue paper to use as a collage, along with commercially made papers, made the entire process fun. Image transfer and stenciling achieved the look she wanted. Color is a motivating factor for her, but using different processes keeps her interested in creating and trying different techniques. Figures are often in her paintings, even when they start out as pours or abstracts. Compositions that are organic interest Holtman more than sharp edges.


OTHER LOCATIONS: Display Schedule Varies
The Beaverton Arts Commission also has revolving art exhibits at Cedar Hills Recreation Center (11640 SW Park Way), Progress Ridge New Seasons (14805 SW Barrows Road), Bogza Coffee (12600 SW Crescent St., #100), and the Artisan Salon (4430 SW Lombard Avenue). For more information, contact Kourtnee Buechner at 503-526-2376 or kbuechner@BeavertonOregon.gov.


The city of Beaverton is home to more than 95,000 residents and is Oregon's sixth largest city. We are a friendly, active, and responsible city well-known for our exceptional community services and amenities, helping Beaverton residents enjoy a high quality of life. Ranked in the top ten of Money magazine's 50 Best Small Cities in America for 2016, Beaverton truly is "The Best of Oregon."


For reminders and community news, visit www.BeavertonOregon.gov. Also follow Beaverton on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CityofBeaverton or Twitter at www.twitter.com/CityofBeaverton.


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Attached Media Files: Mixed media works by Buff Holtman (pictured) are part of the City of Beaverton’s art displays through August. Various artists are featured at The Beaverton Building, Beaverton City Library Main and Murray Scholls, and other locations around town. (Photo/B

BEAVERTON, Ore. -- The third annual Beaverton Startup Challenge is now accepting applications from startups interested in taking their business to the next level. The challenge was first launched in 2016 by the City of Beaverton, the West Side Startup Fund and the Oregon Technology Business Center (OTBC). In 2018, five winning startups will be headquartered in OTBC and receive $20,000 or more along with incubation services and regular meetings with investors.


"We've seen great success from our two Beaverton Startup Challenge classes," said Mayor Denny Doyle. "In just a year and a half, challenge winners have raised more than $1.5 million in additional funding. This is a great opportunity for startups in our area."


For-profit, early-stage growth businesses with the ambition and potential to scale into national and international markets are encouraged to apply. Applicants must have a two to five member team with at least one team member working on the startup full-time. Applicants may be self-funded, grant-funded, and/or have investor funding of up to $250,000. Five startups will win:


$20,000 or more cash convertible-note investment
Regular meetings with active investors
Discounted legal and accounting services
HR and marketing assistance
OTBC's top-rated coaching and mentoring services
OTBC entrepreneur workshops, and more


Past winners range from apparel, mobile technology, to digital health and drone technology.


To learn more and apply, visit www.otbc.org/BeavertonChallenge. Applications are due Monday, Oct. 1. Finalists will be selected Dec. 5. If you have questions, contact Steve Morris at smorris@otbc.org.


ABOUT OTBC
The Oregon Technology Business Center (OTBC) is a nonprofit startup incubator that helps entrepreneurs start and grow companies. OTBC provides coaching, networking events, entrepreneurship programs with shared office space in Beaverton, and "virtual incubation" programs (workshops and mentoring) delivered using interactive video to help entrepreneurs throughout Oregon. In 10 years, OTBC has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs, and OTBC companies have raised more than $60 million in funding and created more than 200 family-wage jobs.


For more information, visit www.otbc.org.


The city of Beaverton is home to more than 95,000 residents and is Oregon's sixth largest city. We are a friendly, active, and responsible city well-known for our exceptional community services and amenities, helping Beaverton residents enjoy a high quality of life. Ranked in the top ten of Money magazine's 50 Best Small Cities in America for 2016, Beaverton truly is "The Best of Oregon."


For more information, reminders and community news, visit www.BeavertonOregon.gov. Also follow Beaverton on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CityofBeaverton or Twitter at www.twitter.com/CityofBeaverton.


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Salem, Ore. -- We are just weeks away from the Peter Courtney Minto Island Bridge celebration. Join the fun as the community celebrates Salem's newest downtown attraction.

The Wed, Aug. 2 celebration begins with a community parade that starts in Wallace Marine Park at 4 p.m. The parade route crosses the Union Street Railroad Bridge and continues through Riverfront Park. The parade will be led by the Willamette Valley Humane Society Rescue Dog contest winner and include a bagpiper, honor guard, government and community leaders, and community groups. The community parade will end at the Riverfront Park Amphitheater.

At 4:30 p.m., a formal dedication ceremony in Riverfront Park Amphitheater will feature presentations by Mayor Chuck Bennett, Senator Peter Courtney, and Friends of Two Bridges. A ribbon cutting at the Bridge will follow to complete the ceremony.

After crossing the new bridge, guests can pick up their First Wednesday Passports, stamped with the first stamp - a Bridge stamp, and then venture downtown to continue the celebration at Downtown Salem's First Wednesday. Completed Passports can be submitted for a chance to win gift packages.

The new bicycle and pedestrian bridge links Downtown Salem to Minto Island and more than 20 miles of off-street trails, as well as 1,400 acres of parks and natural areas. Since its April soft opening, more than 62,000 individuals have crossed the Peter Courtney Minto Island Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge on foot, bicycle, and other methods.

For more information on the Peter Courtney Minto Island Bridge, or to sign up to receive bridge email updates, please go to www.cityofsalem.net/mintobridge.

Si necesita ayuda para comprender esta información, por favor llame 503-588-6211.

For questions related to construction, please contact Aaron Kimsey at 503-588-6211 or akimsey@cityofsalem.net. For questions related to the opening celebration, please contact Nicole Miller at 503-540-2415 or nmiller@cityofsalem.net.

The City of Salem's Urban Development Department is committed to enhancing community prosperity through an array of programs in its four major service areas: Real Property Services, Housing and Social Services, Economic Development and Downtown Revitalization. The Urban Development Department: manages the City's urban renewal areas (URA) and redevelopment projects within the URAs; administers federally funded block grant and housing programs; provides loans and grants to eligible businesses, homeowners, and renters; and manages leases, acquires, and sells properties for the City.

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At approximately 2:03 PM this afternoon the Salem Fire Department responded to a reported fire at 4825 Ridge Road NE. Responding fire department units arrived on scene at 2:11 pm and found multiple cars on fire with extension to nearby vegetation. Limited access to the fire hampered fire suppression efforts of the first arriving fire department units. Power lines brought down as a result of the fire also impacted fire suppression efforts.

Incident commanders utilized foam to enhance fire suppression activities and effectiveness. Additionally, a water supply line was stretched across the rail line leading to a stoppage in rail traffic for several hours.

The fire spread was stopped at 3:22pm. Fire units remain on scene extinguishing residual
hot spots at this time. At the height of the incident nine (9) fire suppression units from the Salem Fire Department were engaged in fire suppression activities.

No injuries have been reported at this time.

Salem Fire Department Deputy Fire Marshals are on scene and engaged in determining the cause and origin of the fire. Initial reports indicate that salvage work in the area may have caused the fire.

The Salem Fire Department simultaneously operated at several multi-unit incidents this afternoon. Additionally, the Salem Fire Department has received some fifty three (53) requests for service today. As a result, mutual aid was requested from Polk County, Marion County, and Keizer Fire Departments to provide coverage at Salem Fire Stations while units operated at the scene of this fire.

City of Vancouver Water Utility crews are responding to a water main break on an 8-inch 1938 cast iron line in Fourth Street, near Columbia Street. Fourth Street has been temporarily closed between Columbia and Washington streets while repairs are underway.

The break, which was reported to the City Operations Customer Service about noon today, caused a heavy flow of water that resulted in some damage to nearby sidewalk, a portion of Fourth Street, and an office building at 215 Fourth St. The amount of water that flowed from the break has not yet been estimated. Damage to the building did not appear to be structural, based on initial checks, and the City will be following up with the owner/tenants to determine the extent of water damage inside.

City water crews were able to isolate the break and shut down water at that point. No customers are out of service as a result of the break. More information about the break and emergency repair will be provided when available.

The City of Vancouver's Water Utility serves more than 230,000 people in Vancouver's urban area. Vancouver is the fourth largest municipal water provider in the state of Washington, with about 72,000 water connections, 11 water stations, 40 wells and about 1,000 miles of pipe. The City of Vancouver Utility's Capital Improvement Program includes ongoing projects to replace aging water mains throughout the Utility's water service area. Many old pipes in the area of today's water break have already been replaced.

Vancouver, Wash. -- The City of Vancouver is now accepting grant applications for projects or events that will increase overnight and day-visit tourism within the city.

The guidelines, application and budget form for the City's lodging tax grants are available on the City's website at http://www.cityofvancouver.us/ltac/page/2017-lodging-tax-grant-program-guidelines

Grant applications must be received by 3 p.m. on Sept. 13. Applications will be reviewed by the City's Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, who will make funding recommendations to the Vancouver City Council. Grant funds will be disbursed in January 2018.

The lodging tax grants are available to non-profit organizations or government agencies with projects, events or activities that increase visits to the city or help increase tourism-related revenues. The grants are funded through a 4 percent lodging tax on hotel, motel and bed and breakfast stays.

An optional grant overview and orientation meeting for those interested in applying will be held at 3:30 p.m. on July 25 in the Aspen Conference Room at City Hall, 415 W. 6th St., Vancouver.

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A large delivery will take place between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Monday, July 24, to the reservoir project site at Washington Park. The delivery of long piles for construction of a retaining wall will follow approved truck routes from West Burnside to Southwest Tichner Drive, Southwest Kingston Avenue, and to the project site on Southwest Sherwood Boulevard. Flaggers will be stationed at key intersections.

What Travelers Can Expect
20- to 25-minute temporary delay as the truck trailer maneuvers through the park
Delays and slow moving traffic on Southwest Kingston Avenue, Southwest Tichner Drive, and West Burnside Street
Staged flaggers to direct traffic at the following intersections: Southwest Kingston Drive and Southwest Sherwood Boulevard; Southwest Kingston Avenue and Southwest Fairview Boulevard
Avoid Delays
To avoid delays, plan ahead and detour around the deliveries' route. Enter the park using:
West Burnside Road to Southwest Skyline Boulevard to Southwest Fairview Boulevard
Southwest Canyon Road to Southwest Knights Boulevard
Southwest Fairview Boulevard to Southwest Knights Boulevard
Southwest Canyon Road to Southwest Knights Boulevard
Exit the park using:
Southwest Fairview Boulevard to Southwest Skyline Boulevard to West Burnside Road
Southwest Knights Boulevard to Southwest Fairview Boulevard
Southwest Knights Boulevard to Southwest Canyon Road

Safety is Priority
Safety is our number one priority when moving any type of heavy equipment into or out of the project worksite. Park users and travelers are encouraged to move safely around the park. Please watch for detours and follow signage instructions. It is imperative for drivers to not only follow direction from flaggers, but also drive with extreme caution to protect the safety of flaggers and other construction workers on site. The public is encouraged not follow construction vehicles or buses as they may enter restricted zones. All construction-related traffic impacts are subject to change.
Project Details
The Washington Park Reservoir Improvements Project entails constructing a new 12.4-million gallon, seismically reinforced, below-ground reservoir in the same footprint of existing Reservoir 3 (upper) with a reflecting pool/water feature on top. The existing Reservoir 4 (lower) will be disconnected from the public drinking water system and a lowland wildlife habitat area, bioswale, and reflecting pool will be constructed in the basin.

For additional project information and updates, contact the project hotline at 503-823-7030, e-mail Sam@jla.us.com or visit www.portlandoregon.gov/water/wpreservoirs.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1240/106287/TRAFFIC_ADVISORY07212017.docx

OREGON CITY -- Clackamas Repertory Theatre celebrates the music of Irving Berlin with "The Melody Lingers on." Ten singers and an onstage band power this sweet, romantic, semi-autobiographical musical about one of America's most beloved composers.

"We've assembled an incredibly talented cast," Director David Smith-English said. "We sought out the area's most powerful voices and are eager for audiences to hear them. Many of the songs we'll perform are American classics, songs we've grown up with, and it's a joy to learn how Berlin, the son of Russian immigrants, came to write them."

"The Melody Lingers On" features female vocal powerhouses Susannah Mars and Merideth Kaye Clark. Mars is a resident artist at Artists Repertory Theatre, where she has performed in 12 productions. Clark was featured as Kate in Clackamas Rep's 2013 production of "Kiss Me Kate" and has wowed audiences with her one-woman show in Clackamas Rep's summer Cabaret Concert Series since 2013.

Mont Chris Hubbard, Don Kenneth Mason, James Dixon, Natalie Mallak, Caitlin Brooke, Matthew Brown, Kevin Minkoff and Allesondra Helwig round out the cast.

Each performance of "The Melody Lingers On" will feature a guest singing Berlin's famous "Supper Time." LaRhonda Steele, the 2016 Muddy Award-winner for Best Female Vocalist presented by the Cascade Blues Association, and Lauren Steele will alternate performances. The addition of this special performance is sure to bring down the house and make it an evening to remember.

Repertory Theatre production team includes customer Alva Bradford, choreographer Wesley "Angel" Hanson, music director Lars Campbell, vocal director Mont Chris Hubbard, scenic and lighting designer Chris Whitten and properties designer Deborah Dahling.

"The Melody Lingers on" runs Aug. 3-27 at the Osterman Theatre on the Clackamas Community College Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave. Performances take place Thursday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with 2:30 p.m. Sunday matinees. Clackamas Rep will celebrate opening night with a champagne and dessert reception in the lobby following the Aug. 5 performance. The Aug. 10, 17 and 24 performances will include interactive post-show talkback sessions with the cast and director.

Tickets may be purchased at www.ClackamasRep.org or by calling 503-594-6047.

About Clackamas Repertory Theatre
Clackamas Repertory Theatre is a professional theatre company in Oregon City. Founded in 2004, it offers high-quality, financially-accessible productions for the citizens of Clackamas County and beyond, prepares current and former Clackamas Community College students for a career in theatre, and gives Clackamas County youth the chance to experience theater firsthand through summer internships and classes at the college. Clackamas Repertory Theatre is a program of the Clackamas Community College Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.

-- 30 --


Attached Media Files: Photo by Travis Nodurft: From left, Mont Chris Hubbard as Mark, Merideth Kaye Clark as Juliet, Susannah Mars as Kathy and Don Kenneth Mason as Jeffery.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITY: Members of the media are invited to interview our visiting Mongolian leaders on Tuesday, July 25, at 10 a.m. in the Bill Brod Community Center, Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City. If you plan on attending, please RSVP to Lori Hall at lori.hall@clackamas.edu.


OREGON CITY -- Five Mongolian leaders participating in the Open World Program will spend July 22-29 in Oregon examining the specialized theme of the "Rule of Law." Clackamas Community College will host the delegation and Diarmuid F. O'Scannlain, United States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit, will serve as host judge.

Managed by the independent Open World Leadership Center, Open World introduces rising leaders of emerging democracies to legislative functions essential to democracy. Open World maintains a network of leaders who have gained significant, firsthand exposure to America's democratic, accountable government and free-market system.

The U.S. Congress established Open World in 1999. Funded almost entirely by the U.S. Congress, Open World links members to their counterparts and is an instrument for Americans engaged in citizen diplomacy.

While in Oregon, the delegates will be provided with an overview of the U.S. legal system and will visit county, state and federal courts. Delegates will meet with American judges and other legal professionals to learn about the judicial system and its proceedings. They will also learn about the United States as a society and participate in cultural experiences.

The visiting delegates are judges from the districts of Songinokhairkhan, Bayangol and Khan-Uul and the provinces of Orkhon Province and Zavkhan.

While in Oregon, the Open World delegation is scheduled to visit Lewis & Clark Law School, tour the Oregon Supreme Court Building, tour the Sheridan Federal Corrections facility, meet with Rep. Earl Blumenauer's staff and present to the Federal Bar Association. They will receive briefings by Judge O'Scannlain, Oregon Chief Justice Thomas Balmer, Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Judith Matarazzo, Chief Judge of the U.S. District Court Michael Mosman, Oregon Court of Appeal Judge Rex Armstrong and U.S. Marshal Service staff.

Homestays will allow the Open World delegates to experience American family life. They will also take part in several cultural and community activities, including attending a Hillsboro Hops baseball game.

Open World has introduced more than 26,000 current and future decision-makers from Eurasia and other countries to American political and civic life and to their American counterparts. Open World delegates range from first-time mayors to veteran journalists, from nonprofit directors to small-business advocates, and from political activists to judges at all levels.

Open World supports congressional outreach to their counterparts abroad. It conducts exchanges that establish lasting professional relationships between the up-and-coming leaders of Open World countries and Americans dedicated to showcasing U.S. values and democratic institutions.

For more information, contact Yasmine Evans at yeva@openworld.gov or visit www.openworld.gov.

-30-

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Portland Community College has bolstered its leadership.

Katy Ho has been named the new vice president for academic affairs, while Robert Steinmetz has been chosen as the next vice president of student affairs. Ho began her duties in July and Steinmetz starts in August.

Ho returns to PCC from Honolulu Community College (HonCC) where she has served as vice chancellor of academic affairs since 2014 after working as the college's dean of students. In this role, she was the chief academic officer and accreditation liaison for the college and oversaw student services, academic support, curriculum, and technology services. During that time, HonCC met and exceeded system performance outcomes in overall degree and certificate attainment, as well as STEM and native Hawaiian degree completion.

Ho worked at PCC from 2002 to 2012 in a number of capacities before moving to Hawaii. She started as an academic advisor and finished as the Sylvania Campus division dean of student support services. Recently, she was one of 39 community-college leaders chosen as Aspen Presidential Fellows for 2017-18 by the Aspen Institute, which cultivates leaders who can transform community colleges to achieve higher levels of success and access. Additionally, she brings a wealth of experience implementing Achieving the Dream at HonCC. This is a comprehensive national movement for equitable student success that PCC has recently joined and will implement.

Ho holds a master's degree in Student Services Administration and a doctorate in Community College Leadership from Oregon State University.

"Katy's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and her special attention to equitable student success, is especially impressive," said Executive Vice President Sylvia Kelley, who led the hiring committee for the position. "Katy has demonstrated a deep knowledge and commitment to the unique needs and concerns of community college students, faculty, and staff."

Steinmetz has served as vice president for student affairs and Enrollment Management at Harrisburg Area Community College in Pennsylvania since 2010. There he has provided leadership and strategic direction for the institution's admissions, career and transfer services, counseling and academic advising, disability support services, financial aid and athletics, among other service lines.

Since joining the college, Steinmetz has created and guided the implementation of a strategic and comprehensive plan to improve student success, completion and enrollment. He reorganized and realigned the student affairs and enrollment management division to include a new student recruitment function, the creation of the student and academic success department, and professional advisor positions.

Before Harrisburg, Steinmetz served as associate dean for enrollment management and college registrar for Calhoun Community College in Decatur, Ala., from 2008-2010. In this role, he oversaw enrollment and recordkeeping. Before that, he was the director of recruitment, retention and enrollment services for Chattanooga State Community College in Tennessee.

In addition to an associate degree in Science from Chattanooga State, Steinmetz has a bachelor's degree in Sociology and a master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, as well as a doctorate in Higher Education Administration from the University of Alabama.

"Rob's credentials are impressive, as is the depth of his experience in student affairs leadership," said PCC President Mark Mitsui. "The college is in good hands having both Katy and Rob heading their respective departments and our Achieving the Dream initiative."


About Portland Community College: PCC is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon, serving more than 78,000 full- and part-time students. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, eight education centers or areas served, and 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

Visit PCC news on the web at http://news.pcc.edu/


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/40/106220/KatyHo.jpg , 2017-07/40/106220/robert_steinmetz.jpg

More than 400 employees from the company's Device Development Group to participate in Community Give Back Day

July 18, 2017, Hillsboro, OR --On Wednesday, July 26, Intel Oregon's Device Development Group (DDG) will hold its fourth annual Community Give Back Day, in which more than 400 employees will complete a variety of volunteer projects at selected Hillsboro Schools to help prepare them for the 2017-18 school year. The Give Back day is representative of Intel's long history of partnership with the Hillsboro School District, and will provide more than 2,800 person-hours of donated labor for the completion of needed projects.

What: 4th Annual Intel DDG Community Give Back Day

When: Wednesday, July 26, 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Where: Glencoe High School, 2700 NW Glencoe Road
Quatama Elementary School, 6905 NE Campus Way
McKinney Elementary School, 535 NW Darnielle Street
Evergreen Middle School, 456 NE Evergreen Road

The media is invited to attend the event at Evergreen Middle School from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m.

Why: To help prepare schools for the upcoming year

Activities: More than 400 volunteers will support a variety of indoor and outdoor projects, including landscaping, window washing, technology management, power washing, painting, etc.

For additional information about the event, please contact Courtney Martin, Oregon Public Affairs Director, at courtney.martin@intel.com or 503.613.2559.

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Attached Media Files: 2017-07/107/106210/media_advisory_Intel_volunteers_beautify_four_schools_072617.pdf

Monday, July 17, 2017-Woodland, WA-Woodland Public Schools seeks to engage student interests both in and out of school by providing a wide variety of unique clubs and teams. Over the past five years, two teams, in particular, the Woodland High School Equestrian Team and Trapshooting Team, have gained a wide following of students resulting in great success.

Woodland High School's Equestrian and Trap teams started in 2012 after school administrators asked students what sorts of activities they would participate in. "We wanted to offer extracurricular activities different from traditional sports to appeal to a wider variety of our students," explained Paul Huddleston, Woodland Public School's Athletic Director. "We have mainstream sports covered, but there were so many students walking the halls who weren't involved."

Two community members, Jolene Johnson and Ben Musgrove, volunteered to coach the teams with Johnson coaching the Equestrian Team and Musgrove taking on coaching duties for the Trap Team. "Neither coaches are school employees with the district providing support by offering places for the teams to meet, advertise and promote their teams," explained Huddleston. "The district provides no financial assistance with both teams running their own fundraising to support their activities."

Woodland High School's Equestrian Team

In order to start the Equestrian Team, Huddleston and Johnson relied on the Washington High School Equestrian Teams (WAHSET) association to provide insight and guidance. "WAHSET was incredibly helpful guiding us to create the team for the school and also with ways to adhere to their standards and guidelines," said Huddleston.

Currently, more than a dozen students participate on the Equestrian Team with Johnson continuing to provide coaching duties. This year, the team qualified for the regional competition where the top teams from each state meet competed against the equivalent teams in Oregon. Woodland High School's Equestrian Team received the High-Point Medium School District Trophy for accumulating the most points average over the number of events. "This is the first time since the team's inception when the team has won the trophy," said Johnson. "We had a spectacular year!"

Johnson started coaching the team when her daughter asked her to take it on. Fundraising continues to be one of the biggest challenges for the team. "Operating a team without school funding means a lot of fundraisers and parent assistance," explained Johnson. "We try to do two rummage sales a year and also come up with other creative fundraising ideas."

Many people don't understand how Equestrian Teams compete since traditional sports are more in the mainstream consciousness. "One of the biggest challenges we face as a team is getting people to understand what WAHSET is all about," said Johnson. "Just getting to the first meet event requires a lot of practice, but once team members compete at the first meet, everything makes sense and they love it."

Johnson finds inspiration to continue coaching from the rewarding experiences she has while coaching the team. "I love seeing the smiles and happiness coming from a rider when they finish their event knowing they did a great job," said Johnson. "Having all that time and effort come together shows how hard work can really pay off."

Woodland High School's Trapshooting Team

Like WAHSET for the Equestrian Team, Huddleston and coach Musgrove relied on assistance from associations that oversee high school trapshooting teams to establish safety protocols and guidelines. Musgrove volunteered to coach the trap team after Huddleston contacted him. "The high school wanted to provide other opportunities for our youth rather than conventional sports," explained Musgrove. "There had been some conversations about the possibility of creating such a team, but it was really Paul's prodding and dedication which resulted in the creation of this unique team in Woodland."

The trap team also presented a few new challenges as students use firearms to shoot targets in a variety of events. "Since firearms are involved, we had to develop strict protocols involving safety and conduct with guns never being permitted on school grounds, including the parking lots, in any manner," explained Huddleston. "Each student takes safety training with parents required to attend mandatory meetings -- we rigorously scrutinize every element of the team's practices regularly to ensure students and everyone involved are completely safe."

With trapshooting requiring a lot of financial investment as team members must practice extensively and purchase a lot of equipment and supplies, the team makes fundraising a top priority with local businesses providing the lion's share of financial assistance. "Woodland is blessed because we have a local business, Kick Ezz, who is a nationally-renowned maker of gun and shotgun recoil pads where Dave Poppe and his group have taken our team under their wing to provide the team with a great deal of financial support," explained Musgrove. "Additionally, a national group called the Midway USA Foundation provides items at no-cost which we raffle off to generate funds."

Musgrove finds helping students find inspiration for lives provides him with the most reward. "Knowing I am providing an opportunity for students to find something that means everything to them drives me to succeed and coach the best I can," he explained. "I have 16 kids who eat, sleep, and breathe trap shooting and seeing the pride in our Varsity Team win the state title felt amazing!"

The Future of Woodland Public Schools' Activities

Director Huddleston and Woodland Public Schools continues to look for new activities to offer for students to become more involved in after-school clubs and teams, both athletic and interest-based. "Is there any better preparation for life after high school than competing, learning teamwork, and, perhaps most importantly, learning how not to win?" asked Huddleston. "We grow the most when we have to overcome adversity and learning to graciously handle losing goes a long way to that -- don't get me wrong, I like to win, too!"

For more information on these teams or other extracurricular activities including how you can volunteer or provide other means of support, contact Athletic Director Paul Huddleston at (360) 841-2800 x 2889 or via email at huddlesp@woodlandschools.org.

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Attached Media Files: Trapshooting requires a significant amount of fundraising as practicing and participating requires a large investment in supplies, equipment, and event fees. (Photo credit: Ben Musgrove) , Establishing the Trapshooting Team presented new challenges as firearms are not permitted on school grounds at any time. (Photo credit: Ben Musgrove) , Started in 2012, Woodland High School's Trapshooting Team (picture here) and the Equestrian Team provide students with varying interests ways to represent their school and show their pride. (Photo credit: Ben Musgrove)

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a home fire disaster on that occurred on Thursday, July 20, 2017, in the 14300 block of NE 18th Street in Vancouver, WA. This single family fire affected 3 adults, 4 children and 4 pets

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

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

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a home fire disaster on July 19, 2017, at approximately 8:00 p.m. In the the 20000 block of NE Worthington Rd in Yacolt, WA.
This single-family fire affected 2 adults.

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

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

Disaster responders with the American Red Cross Cascades Region responded to a home disaster at approximately 11:45 p.m. on Tuesday, July 18, 2017, in the 1200 block of NE 183 Ave in Portland, OR. This single-family fire affected 3 adults.

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits, information about recovery services, and health and mental health services.

Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department.

The Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families affected by disasters, like home fires, every day.

The Red Cross advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online form at www.redcross.org/CascadesHomeFire to schedule an appointment.

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a home fire disaster on July 18, 2017, at approximately 3:30 p.m. in the 100 block of Derek Road in Kelso, Washington. The fire affected one family, including 2 adults, 9 children and 15 pets.

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

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

Disaster responders with the American Red Cross Cascades Region responded to a home disaster at approximately 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 16, 2017 in the 11100 block of Main St. NE in Donald, Oregon. This single-family fire affected 2 adults.

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits, information about recovery services, and health and mental health services.

Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department.

The Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families affected by disasters, like home fires, every day.

The Red Cross advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online form at www.redcross.org/CascadesHomeFire to schedule an appointment.

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a home fire disaster on Saturday, July 15, 2017, at approximately 8:30 p.m. in the 600 block of 5th St. in Gervais, OR.

This multi-family fire affected 10 adults.

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

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

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a home fire disaster on Saturday July 15, 2017, at 1:30 p.m. in the 5000 block of SE 87th Ave in Portland.

This single-family fire affected 2 adults.

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

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

VANCOUVER, Wash., July 20, 2017 -­ The Free Clinic of Southwest Washington has hired Emily Singleton as program manager. She will oversee medical clinic operations, health screenings, dispensary services, client navigation services and the clinic's project access specialty referral program.

Singleton brings more than 35 years of health care experience to her new role. She served as an administration supervisor at the Cleveland Clinic Hospital and a clinical nurse specialist at the Guadalupe safety-net clinic in Wichita, Kansas. She completed her bachelor's degree in health administration at the College of St. Francis and has an MBA degree from Friends University.

"We're delighted to welcome Emily to our leadership team," says Barbe West, executive director of the Free Clinic. "Her extensive experience in clinic administration and nursing will prove invaluable in her new role."

About the Free Clinic:
The Free Clinic of Southwest Washington provides free, compassionate, quality health care to children and adults who are otherwise unable to obtain such services. The Free Clinic offers medical, dental, vision and specialty care services from more than 500 volunteer professionals. The Free Clinic is funded by the local community, and all donations stay in Southwest Washington. For more information about the Free Clinic of Southwest Washington, visit our website: freeclinics.org.


Attached Media Files: Emily Singleton, Free Clinic of Southwest Washington

Vancouver, WA -- Friends of the Carpenter has hired Janine Keats as activity coordinator.

"This is a great new opportunity for me because I am able to utilize both my background in social services and in being creative, designing and building activities with the daily participants at the Friendship Center," said Keats.

Keats graduated from the University of Oregon with a bachelor of science in psychology. Her previous employment includes outpatient treatment programs in Eugene and Beaverton. Keats also worked in fine jewelry retail and designs jewelry in her time away from work.

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

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Billy Henry, Founder/Executive Director
Northwest Association for Blind Athletes
311 West Evergreen Blvd, Ste. 200
Vancouver, Washington 98660
Local Phone: 1-360-718-2826
Toll Free: 1-800-880-9837
http://www.nwaba.org
bhenry@nwaba.org

Northwest Association for Blind Athletes to Host Largest Camp Abilities in the United States for Children and Youth with Visual Impairments Next Week in Salem, Oregon

Vancouver, Washington--July 19th, 2017--Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) announced today that it will host the largest Camp Abilities in the United States for children and youth with visual impairments July 23rd-29th, 2017 at Willamette University in Salem, Oregon. Camp Abilities is a world-renowned week long comprehensive, developmental sports camp for children and youth with visual impairments between the ages of 8 and 15.

Camp Abilities Oregon will provide opportunities to 56 children and youth from across Washington and Oregon in its second year. Campers will vary in socioeconomic status, ethnic background and level of skills and abilities. The purpose of Camp Abilities Oregon is to empower blind or visually impaired children to break the cycle of dependence and ill health that is often associated with their disability. Campers will be encouraged to take control of their own quality of life, and will be empowered to use their many talents to actively contribute within their communities. A variety of sports and recreational activities including goalball (a sport specifically developed for individuals with visual impairments), judo, tandem cycling, swimming and countless other activities will be provided throughout the week.

"We are extremely honored to offer this truly transformational program again this year to children and youth with visual impairments. Camp Abilities Oregon will provide benefits that transcend participating in sports, and will help campers gain the confidence, self-esteem, friendships, and independence they need to achieve success in all areas of life," said Founder and Executive Director Billy Henry

Camp Abilities Oregon is funded in part by the Oregon Blind and Visually Impaired Student Fund, Washington Department of Services for the Blind, The Salem Foundation, and The Standard, but additional support is still needed. Donations are accepted to support Camp Abilities Oregon by mailing a check to PO BOX 65265, Vancouver, WA, 98665 or making an online gift at www.nwaba.org. Please indicate that your donation is to support Camp Abilities Oregon 2016. For more information on the Northwest Association for Blind Athletes, please contact Billy Henry at 1-360-718-2826, or visit www.nwaba.org

About NWABA:
The mission of Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. A group of visually impaired students formed the Association in 2007 to ensure that people who are blind were participating in sports and physical activity. Today, NWABA is a rapidly expanding charitable organization that provides more than 1,500 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: bhenry@nwaba.org
Phone: 1-360-718-2826

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MEDIA ADVISORY

OMSI TO BUILD 34-FOOT VOLCANO
OMSI to attempt world record for the largest baking soda and vinegar volcano

What: The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) will build a 34-foot baking soda and vinegar volcano in an effort to set a new Guinness World Record for the World's Largest Baking Soda and Vinegar Volcano. In celebration of the recent opening of POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION, OMSI is attempting the world's largest baking soda and vinegar volcano so visitors can experience the science behind a volcanic eruption on an unprecedented scale right here in Portland! This is anything but your average classroom science experiment, and it takes a lot of teamwork (and lots of vinegar and baking soda), to make the attempt. Construction for the volcano began on July 12 on the OMSI Front Plaza.

In addition to the volcano, OMSI will be hosting hands-on activities and demonstrations on the plaza starting at 11am leading up to the eruption at 3pm. Come explore the science of volcanoes from the forces brewing under the surface to the consequences of an eruption as well as how volcanoes have played an important role here in the Pacific Northwest. Thanks to Russ Fogle, Reign Audio, Costco and Orchard Supply Hardware for their generous support and donations.

When: Sunday, July 23, 3 p.m. (open to the public; activities begin at 11 a.m.)
Wednesday, July 26, 9 p.m. (for OMSI After Dark attendees)

Where: OMSI Front Plaza

RSVP: For media interested in attending the event, please RSVP to Libby Trobitz, ltrobitz@omsi.edu or 503.797.4617.

About OMSI
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation's leading science museums, a world-class tourist attraction, and an award-winning educational resource for the kid in each of us. OMSI operates the largest museum-based outdoor science education program in the country and provides traveling and community outreach programs that bring science learning opportunities to schools and community organizations in nearly every county in Oregon. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit omsi.edu.

The Board of Directors for Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette (PPCW) is pleased to announce that Dr. Anne Udall will be the organization's Interim CEO starting Aug. 1. The Board was impressed with Anne's background in large, complex organizations and believes she will be a good fit for PPCW with her focus on building relationships and steady leadership style.

Anne brings more than 20 years of deep experience in executive leadership and management in nonprofit and education settings. Most recently she was the Chief Strategy Officer at the New Teacher Project in Santa Cruz, Calif., where she led the development and implementation of a four-year strategic plan, coordinated efforts with key national funders, and advanced equity and inclusion initiatives. Prior to moving to Santa Cruz, Anne lived in Portland and is excited to be back in the state she calls home.

"I am deeply committed to Planned Parenthood's work of providing high-quality health care and information," Anne says. "I am looking forward to working with the dedicated PPCW staff and the incredibly supportive community of patients, partners and donors."

Stacy M. Cross, who has served as CEO & President of PPCW since 2013, is leaving to become the CEO of Planned Parenthood Mar Monte, headquartered in San Jose, Calif.

"Since Stacy joined PPCW, we have expanded financial resources, implemented electronic medical records for all patients, broadened the patient base by contracting with dozens of private health insurance providers, and enhanced PPCW's diversity and outreach programs," says Sita Symonette, Incoming Board Chair. "We thank her for all of her work on behalf of our community and wish her all the best in her new role."

The PPCW Board has launched a nationwide search for the next permanent CEO.

No matter where you are, you can make the world a happier place in just a few minutes on Tuesday, August 15th, by chalking positive messages on your sidewalk or driveway and sharing them with thousands of others across the globe. The 7th annual international Chalk the Walks event takes place anywhere all throughout the day with the sole purpose of infusing as many people as possible with some much-needed joy and inspiration.

Chalk the Walks, a project of The Joy Team, is all about spreading happiness through the magical power of positive messages and sidewalk chalk. The international event began in the heart of Vancouver, Washington, in 2011; and has spread to all 50 US states and several countries (Australia, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, England, India, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand and Norway).

Although the event happens anywhere and everywhere, the public is invited to chalk with The Joy Team on Main Street in Vancouver, WA, in front of Boomerang (808 Main St.) from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Chalk will be provided and inspiring bumper stickers will be given to everyone who comes out and chalks.

"This is a simple yet powerful way to put some happiness into the world," said Michele McKeag Larsen, founder of The Joy Team and creator of Chalk the Walks. Write happy messages, have fun doing it, spread some joy while you're at it. "And you never know what a difference your message might make in someone's life."

Being part of the joy-spreading movement is easy. Just join the Facebook event at bit.ly/chalk2017, chalk uplifting messages on your sidewalks on Tuesday, August 15th, take a photo and share your messages on the Chalk the Walks 2017 Facebook event page or other social with #ChalkTheWalks. Then scroll through and enjoy a virtual playground of inspiration and optimism.

Anyone can host a Chalk the Walks event in their town and invite the community to join them. Several gatherings are planned to infuse positivity and a list of those known to The Joy Team can be found here: http://chalkthewalks.com/our-partners/

For more information or to download customizable event posters, visit ChalkTheWalks.com.
Join Chalk the Walks 2017 here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1759841277628321/
See photos from the 2016 event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/192197421134373/


About The Joy Team
Founded in February 2010, The Joy Team is a 501c3 corporation based in Vancouver, Washington, with the mission of building community by spreading joy, optimism and inspiration. Projects of the positive thought organization include putting up 1,469 positive messages (and counting) on billboards, delivering over 2,450 Happy Packets to the staff of organizations serving the community through The Junior Joy Team, giving over 4,400 jars of joy-wrapped peanut butter to hungry kids through the PB & JOY Project and the annual international Chalk the Walks event. Learn more at thejoyteam.org, like them on Facebook.com/TheJoyTeam or follow them on Twitter @TheJoyTeam or Instagram @the.joy.team.


Attached Media Files: Chalk the Walks poster