Every day in America, too many children ride in car seats that have been installed incorrectly, or are riding in the wrong car seats for their ages and sizes. Even worse, many other children ride while completely unbuckled. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), two out of three car seats are misused. To help combat this issue, NHTSA is sponsoring Child Passenger Safety Week from September 17-23,2017, a campaign dedicated to helping parents and caregivers make sure their children ride as safely as possible - every trip, every time.

"Every 33 seconds in 2015, a child under 13 was involved in a crash," said Officer Jeremy Shaw
"Using car seats that are age- and size-appropriate is the best way to keep your children safe." According to NHTSA, motor vehicle crashes are a leading killer of children, and fatalities are on the rise. Car seats, booster seats, and seat belts can make all the difference. "In 2015, there were 248 children under the age of 5 saved because they were riding in car seats," he/she said. "Car seats matter, and having the right car seat installed and used the right way is critical."

He added that too often, parents move their children to the front seat before they should, which increases the risk of injury and death. The safest place for all kids under 13 is in the back seat. Also, according to NHTSA in 2015, about 25.8 percent of children 4 to 7 who should be riding in booster seats were prematurely moved to seat belts, and 11.6 percent were unbuckled altogether.

NHTSA recommends keeping children rear-facing as long as possible up to the top height or
weight allowed by their particular seats. Once a child outgrows the rear-facing-only "infant" car seat, he/she should travel in a rear-facing "convertible" or all-in-one car seat. Once a child outgrows the rear-facing size limits, the child is ready to travel in a forward-facing car seat with a harness and tether. After outgrowing the forward-facing car seat with harness, the child should ride in a booster seat until he/she is the right size to use a seat belt safely.

Always remember to register your car seat and booster seat with the car seat manufacturer so you can be notified in the event of a recall. Parents and caregivers can view more information on car seat safety and locate a certified child passenger safety technician at www.nhtsa.gov/carseat.


Attached Media Files: Press Release

On June 7th, 2017 Beaverton Police responded to a report of an attempted kidnapping involving a 16-year-old female. The incident occurred in the 5800 block of SW Erickson Ave. This incident occurred in public and this was a stranger on stranger attack. We released information using Beaverton Case number 17-1580693.

On September 15, 2017 Beaverton Police Detectives arrested 27 year old Robert Friesen in connection with the attempted kidnapping. Friesen was lodged at Washington County Jail and charged with Attempted Kidnapping in the First Degree, Menacing, and Unlawful Use Of A Weapon.

Because of the nature of this case, there may be additional victims. Beaverton Police Detectives are seeking any additional information the public may have regarding the June 7th attempted kidnapping. Detectives are also asking any additional victims please contact the Beaverton Police Department at 503-629-0111.

Friesen has been associated with a white Ford Explorer, a light colored minivan, a silver Honda Civic and a black Nissan Sentra with faded paint on the hood and fenders.


Attached Media Files: Press Release , Friesen picture

Corvallis, Ore. -- The Benton County Sheriff's Office recently participated in seat belt and distracted driver saturation patrols. These extra patrols took place in Benton County on August 21, 2017 through September 3, 2017. The office also participated in extra DUII (Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants) patrols between August 18, 2017 and September 4, 2017. During this period, deputies responded to regular calls for service, as well as worked the extra patrol.

"Our goal is to keep Benton County safer for everyone," said Sheriff Scott Jackson. "Please to do your part. Obey the speed limit, pay attention to the job of driving, always buckle your seat belt, and if you are going to drink, do not drive."

In all, deputies arrested seven for DUII (all under the influence of alcohol), arrested/cited one for Minor in Possession of Alcohol or Marijuana, and issued 18 Driving While Suspended (Misdemeanor or Violation citations).

Benton County Deputies also issued 135 traffic citations including the following: 50 speeding citations, two seat belt citations, and eight cell phone citations.

BCSO's next DUII Saturation Patrols are scheduled September 16 through September 24, 2017, to coincide with Oregon State University's student move in week and home college football games. Benton County Sheriff's Office will be targeting DUII Alcohol, Controlled Substances, and Inhalants.

Oregon's DUII enforcement program is committed to reducing the amount of crashes on our roadways by keeping impaired drivers 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: 2017-09/1505/107932/DUII_saturation_9.13.17.pdf

Wilsonville PD, Sheriff's Office, Tualatin PD arrest 2 of 3 juveniles after car theft, pursuit, crash; tips sought

Please reference CCSO Case # 2017-24813

At 6:26 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 18, deputies contracted to the Wilsonville Police Department responded to a report of a stolen vehicle at Plaid Pantry in Wilsonville.

Deputies arrived at the scene. The victim told deputies that three juvenile males asked him for a ride from Eugene to Portland. He said when they reached Wilsonville, they stopped at the Plaid Pantry, and the victim went inside to buy some items.

When he came back, the three juvenile suspect males and the victim's vehicle -- a black 2007 Toyota Camry 4D -- had disappeared.

At approximately 11:39 a.m., an alert Clackamas County Sheriff's Office Patrol Deputy spotted and attempted to stop the stolen vehicle.

Wilsonville Police and Sheriff's Office deputies pursued the vehicle, eventually end the pursuit as the stolen vehicle continued northbound on SW Boones Ferry Rd. into Tualatin. But then a citizen alerted Wilsonville Police, the Sheriff's Office, and Tualatin Police that the same stolen vehicle had crashed after trying to negotiate a turn at SW Boones Ferry Rd and SW Blake St. in Tualatin at a high rate of speed.

Deputies responded to the crash scene, and quickly took one of the three juvenile suspects, a 16 year old male, into custody. A second juvenile suspect, a 17 year old male, was located by Tualatin Police officers hiding in a backyard of a nearby residence.

Authorities searched for the third juvenile suspect, but were unable to locate him. Police are seeking tips from the public.

The two arrested juvenile suspects were transported to Donald E. Long Juvenile Detention Center and booked on numerous charges.

TIPS SOUGHT

The Sheriff's Office is seeking the third, a 17-year-old juvenile suspect in the Sept. 18 theft of the 2007 Toyota Camry 4D from the Wilsonville Plaid Pantry, as well as any 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 # 2017-24813.

Two Clackamas County cities -- Happy Valley and Wilsonville -- contract with the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office to provide municipal police services.

[END]

On 09/08/2017, the Columbia County Sheriff's Office initiated a Sex Abuse Investigation after receiving information that a 6-year-old boy was sexually assaulted by an 18 year old neighbor in Clatskanie. The identity of the six year old boy and his family are withheld for privacy reasons. The 18-year-old suspect was identified as John Lewis of Clatskanie. Upon investigation, it was revealed that when he was a juvenile, Lewis had sexually assaulted a child in the past in a different part of the state.

On 09/14/2017 Lewis was taken into custody without incident and lodged in the Columbia County Jail. He is being charged with one count each of Unlawful Sexual Penetration, First Degree and Sexual Abuse, First Degree, and two counts of Sodomy, First Degree. Mr. Lewis was arraigned on the charges, and is being held on bail, with $29,500 security.

Investigators believe there could be additional victims. If you have information concerning this case, please contact the Columbia County Sheriff's Office dispatch at 503 397-1521.


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/3009/107971/ICUP2017091515000070.jpg

The Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office is currently accepting applications to join the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Reserve Unit. To apply to become a Reserve Deputy Sheriff, you must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver's license, high school diploma or G.E.D., and pass a physical and written test as well as an in-depth background investigation, oral interview, polygraph, and psychological exam. Applications can be picked up in person at the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office and must be completed and submitted by Nov 1st, 2017. For additional information, contact Deputy Jordan Spencer at spencerj@co.cowlitz.wa.us

By: Sgt Kent Vander Kamp, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office

Date: 09/19/2017

Deceased: Sebastian E Baker, 23 year old male, of Vancouver, WA

On 09/19/2017, at about 1857 hours, Deschutes County 9-1-1 received a report of a hiker that had fallen about 250 feet in the area of the Picnic Lunch Wall. Deschutes County Office Sheriff's Deputies, Oregon State Park Rangers, Redmond Fire and Rescue and Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue personnel were dispatched to the scene.

The hiker, Sebastian Baker, was in the area of the Picnic Lunch Wall peak before falling to the base of the wall. It appears Baker was hiking alone on the Misery Ridge trail before leaving the trail and falling. Mr. Baker died at the scene. The cause of the fall appears accidental, although, it remains under investigation.

DCSO Detectives are seeking any additional witnesses that may have seen the incident at Smith Rock State Park or Mr. Baker prior to the incident. Please contact DCSO Detective Patterson at 541-693-6911 with any additional information.

East County Fire & Rescue Announces our next CERT course

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.


(Completion of 20-hour curriculum required for certification)
When: Friday -- Oct 13 7 PM - 9:30 PM
Saturday -- Oct 14 9 AM -- 5 PM
Friday -- Oct 20 7 PM -- 9:30 PM
Saturday -- Oct 21 9 AM -- 5 PM

Where: East County Fire & Rescue
Station 91
600 NE 267th Ave.
Camas, WA

Cost: $30.00 (Covers Training Supplies & Materials)

Class size is limited; payment is due at time of registration
For registration or more information call
360-834-4908 or on the web at ecfr.us


Attached Media Files: ECFR Fall 2017 CERT Flyer

Welcome to the Oregon FBI's Tech Tuesday segment. This week: building a digital defense for college students.

Parents -- this time of year is tough, there's no doubt about it. Your kids are headed to college, and whether you are excited or just relieved that they will finally be out of your hair, the stress is real. Beyond the emotional toll this can take, your wallet is about to take a hit, too. Tuition, books, room and board not to mention the mini-fridge, midnight pizza runs and more can break the bank.

Time for this kid to get a job, right ?! Yes -- with some caveats. College students are particularly vulnerable to getting suckered by scammers offering great jobs with good pay. They often advertise around college campuses or even send emails to their student accounts.

It's easy to apply -- simply fill out an online application, complete with personal info such as full name, date of birth and Social Security number. The scam artist now has everything he needs to steal the student's identity. He can open fraudulent bank accounts, credit cards and the like with ease.

In some cases, the fraudster will send the student a check as a signing bonus or first paycheck. The student is asked to cash the check, take a bit out for himself and send the rest to a specified vendor for supplies or needed software. The check, of course, is bogus, and the fraudster actually controls the bank account of what your student thought was a legitimate business vendor.

The bank may close your student's account due to the fraudulent activity, and he is now responsible for reimbursing the bank for the counterfeit check. His credit history takes a hit, too.

So how can a student protect himself from such a scam?

Never accept a job that requires depositing checks into your account or wiring portions of such checks to other individuals or accounts.
Many of the scammers who send these messages are not native English speakers. Look for poor use of the English language in e-mails such as incorrect grammar, capitalization, and tenses.
Forward suspicious e-mails to the college's IT personnel.

Employment scams are not the only concern for college students these days. Next week, we will look at other ways fraudsters are going after your kids.

In the meantime, if you have been victimized by an 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: TT - College Kid Employment - ENGLISH Audio , TT - College Kid Employment - SPANISH Written , TT - College Kid Employment - SPANISH Audio , TT - College Kid Employment - RUSSIAN Written , TT - College Kid Employment - RUSSIAN Audio

Wilber Purvis has been located and is with his family. Thanks to all that assisted in finding him.

Gresham, Ore. -- Gresham Police is asking for the public's assistance in locating a missing 74 year old man with Alzheimer's. Wilber Purvis was last seen in Gresham today around 8 p.m. Purvis is a Caucasian male with gray hair, approximately 6-feet-2-inches tall and 275 pounds. He was last seen wearing a multi colored Hawaiian type shirt and gray shorts.

Anyone who knows of Pervis' whereabouts is encouraged to call the non-emergency police dispatch line at 503.823.3333 or if needed, 911.


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/1278/107918/Purvis.jpg

HOOD RIVER, Ore. -- Based on the current weather patterns and the corresponding changes in fire behavior, the Hood River County Sheriff's Office is downgrading evacuation levels for the Hood River Valley.

The Hood River Valley will have all evacuation levels lifted. This means zones A4b, A5, A6, A7, B4, B5, B6 and B7 return to normal, pre-fire status. Due to the flash flood advisory for the I-84 corridor, exit 56 all the way west to the county line will remain on Level One notice. This means that the Cascade Locks area, as well as Wyeth and Viento, need to remain ready for the possibility of evacuation. Residents and travelers should also be aware of the potential dangers associated with the flash flood advisory. Vigilance should be maintained, as rocks, trees, and debris could threaten the roadway and some populated areas.

All evacuation notices for the public lands around Lost Lake are being lifted. However, all Hood River County Forestlands, Roads, and Trails are closed, as are all U.S. Forestlands north of Mt. Hood and west of Highway 35. Recreational use on these lands is prohibited at this time. Anyone found in this area could face citation, and anyone who enters these areas in violation of the closure may not receive search and rescue assistance if needed.

The latest information on evacuation levels continues to be found at hoodriversheriff.com and on our Facebook and Twitter pages. The information lines are 541-387-6911 (English) and 541-387-7080 (Spanish).


ACTUALIZACI?"N: Aviso de Evacuación de Hood River -- 18 de septiembre 2017
HOOD RIVER, Ore. -- Basado en los patrones actuales del clima y los cambios correspondientes en el comportamiento del incendio, la Oficina del Sheriff del Condado de Hood River está bajando los niveles de evacuación para todo el Condado de Hood River.

El Valle de Hood River tendrá todos los niveles de evacuación levantados. Esto significa que las zonas A4b, A5, A6, A7, B4, B5, B6 y B7 vuelven a su estado normal antes del incendio. Debido a la advertencia de inundación repentina para el corredor I-84, todo el camino al oeste desde la salida 56 hasta la línea del condado permanecerá en el aviso de Nivel Uno. Esto significa que el área de Cascade Locks, así como Wyeth y Viento, deben permanecer listos para la posibilidad de evacuación. Residentes y viajeros por carretera también deben ser conscientes de los peligros potenciales asociados con el aviso de inundación repentina. La vigilancia debe mantenerse, ya que las rocas, los árboles y los escombros podrían amenazar la carretera y algunas áreas pobladas.

Todos los avisos de evacuación de los terrenos públicos alrededor de Lost Lake están siendo levantados. Sin embargo, todos los bosques, carreteras y senderos del Condado de Hood River están cerrados, al igual que todas las tierras forestales de los Estados Unidos al norte de Mt. Hood y al oeste de la Carretera 35. El uso recreativo en estas tierras está prohibido en este momento. Cualquier persona que se encuentre en esta área podría enfrentar la citación, y cualquier persona que entre en estas áreas en violación del cierre puede no recibir ayuda de búsqueda y rescate si es necesario.

La información más reciente sobre los niveles de evacuación se encuentra en hoodriversheriff.com y en nuestras páginas de Facebook y Twitter. Las líneas de información son 541-387-6911 (Inglés) y 541-387-7080 (español).


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/1816/108009/NOTIFICATION_ZONE_ALL_COUNTY.pdf

There are no changes to evacuation levels this morning. The Red Cross has a shelter set up at the River of Life Church on Tucker Rd.

Information from fire crews this morning is that the fire is now 41,550 acres in size. There was growth to the northeast line and to the south. It is estimated that aircraft dropped nearly 100,000 gallons of water on the fire yesterday. Today, resources will be focused on the northeast corner of the fire to help the communities, infrastructure and other values. Burnout operations continue from Cacade Locks east to Mitchell Point in an effort to bring the fire down the slope in a controlled manner. Crews will also be reinforcing line from Mitchell Point to Wahtum Lake.

Oregon State Fire Marshal crews will continue to patrol residences near the eastern edge of the fire. Two additional task forces have arrived to support the structural assessment and preperation work being performed in Hood River.

The Oregon Department of Transportation opened Inerstate 84 westbound only. They made a decision to not allow anyone to exit the freeway from Hood River to Troutdale, including Cascade Locks. Any questions on this need to be directed to ODOT.

Weather is expected to remain cooler with light winds. Significant precipitation is still forecasted for early next week.

Questions from the fire operations base can be answered at 541-392-1632. This line is staffed 8am to 8pm. Evacuation information can be reached at 541-387-6911 from 8am - 5pm and a recorded line is available 24 hours a day at 541-399-8022 for English and 541-399-8023 for Spanish.

HOOD RIVER, Ore. - After careful consideration by fire incident commanders and the Hood River County Sheriff's Office, the following changes are being made to Evacuation Levels:

Zones A5 and A6 are being placed on Level Two evacuation notices.

- Adding in the current Level Two zone of A4b, the new boundaries for Level Two will be defined as follows: The northern boundary will be the Columbia River, and the southern boundary will be the south end of Collins Road in Dee. The eastern boundary runs south from 430 Country Club and follows Country Club down to Reed Road, then runs overland due south to Hwy. 281, continuing along 281 to milepost 12.5, then following the Middle Fork of the Hood River until it comes parallel with the south end of Collins Road. The western boundary includes the Kinglsey Reservoir area.

Zones A7, B4, B5, B6 and B7 are now being placed on Level One evacuation notice.

- A7: The northern boundary of this zone begins at the intersection of Highway 281 (Dee Highway) and the Middle Fork of the Hood River (Milepost 12.5) and runs down to the south end of Collins Road in Dee. The southern boundary follows Laurance Lake Road from Clear Creek Road out past Laurance Lake. The eastern boundary follows 281 south to Clear Creek and then south to Laurance Lake.

- B4: The northern boundary of this zone is the Columbia River and the southern boundary is Belmont Drive. The eastern boundary is Rand Road running down to the May Street intersection. The line then continues due south until it reaches Belmont Drive in the 2600 Block area. The western boundary is Country Club Road.

- B5: The northern boundary of this zone uses Belmont, Brookside and Elliot. The southern boundary uses Barrett Drive, running on a straight line through Tucker Road, all the way to the Hood River. The Hood River is the eastern boundary, and Country Club Road is the western boundary.

- B6: The northern boundary of this zone uses Barrett Drive running east-west from Country Club to the Hood River. The southern-eastern boundary follows the Hood River until it reaches Highway 281 (Dee Highway), then follows 281 until Summit Drive. The Hood River is the eastern boundary, and the western boundary is defined by Country Club, beginning at the Barrett intersection, then following it south to Reed Road, then following that line due south until it intersects with 281 at Summit.

- B7: The north-western boundary of this zone begins at the Highway 281 (Dee Highway) and Highway 282 (Odell Highway) junction and follows 281 down to mile post 10.5. The southern boundary follows a straight line east-west using Central Vale Drive. The eastern boundary follows Highway 282 (Odell Highway) until it reaches Straight Hill Road, south to Massee Grade, then intersecting with Highway 35 until Central Vale Drive.

The Cascade Locks area remains at Level Two notice, and the A4a zone running along the I-84 corridor from Exit 47 to Exit 56 remains at Level Three.

The decision to make these changes was based on a series of spot fires and uphill runs that originated in Herman Creek and resulted in the fire becoming established on the ridges east of Gorton Creek and Shellrock Mountain. Firefighters continue to work on strengthening established containment lines, and will be out patrolling and looking for opportunities to prep around structures.

The Hood River County Sheriff's Office would like to remind all affected residents that Level Two means "Be Set" to leave at a moment's notice. Level One means "Be Ready" for the possibility of evacuation. This updated information is available on hoodriversheriff.com and on the Hood River Sheriff Facebook and Twitter pages. All of those sources will have a link to the Interactive Web Map where you can enter your address to see what level you may be under.

The evacuation info recorded lines are 541-399-8022 (English) and 541-399-8023 (Spanish).


Attached Media Files: Zones B4 B5 B6 , Zones A6 A7 , Zones A5 B6 B7

This update is being provided by the Hood River County Health Department.

Boil Water Advisory for All Crystal Springs Water District

Updated Information: All of Crystal Springs Water District is under a boil water advisory. This means boil your water. Do not consume raw tap water. This expands the alert that was issued yesterday. Questions should be directed to the Crystal Springs Water District at (541) 354-1818.

Distrito de Agua Crystal Springs: Alerta de Hervir el Agua

Información actualizada: Todo el Distrito de Agua de Crystal Springs está bajo un aviso de hervir el agua. Esto significa hervir el agua. No beba agua del grifo sin procesar. Esto amplía la alerta que fue emitida el 9/13/2017. Llamar: Al 541-354-1818 para más información.

# # #


Attached Media Files: PDF of Release , Boil Water Map

UPDATE: It is with regret that we have been forced to postpone the memorial service for Deputy Mike Anderson. With the permission of his family, and with the understanding that Mike's memorial deserves the undivided attention and dedication of our office and our community, the service has been moved to October 15th, 2017. The time and location remain unchanged. It will be held at 1:30 PM at the Hood River Valley High School. The law enforcement procession staging area and route may be changed, and info on that will be provided when it comes available.

HOOD RIVER, Ore. - Hood River County Sheriff's Deputy Mike Anderson lost his battle with cancer this past Friday, August 25th, 2017. He was a 16 year veteran of the Hood River County Sheriff's Office. Mike started his career as a volunteer with the Sheriff's Office in 2001 and was hired as a full time Deputy Sheriff in 2007. Mike grew up in Hood River County and was a well-respected and well known member of the community. He spent many years as a Marine Deputy, Search and Rescue Coordinator, Patrol Deputy and Trainer. He touched many lives throughout the area and state.

Beginning Tuesday, September 5th, memorial contributions to the "Hood River County Mike Anderson Search & Rescue Fund" may be made at any US Bank branch. Please ask your branch to deposit to this account established at the US Bank branch in Hood River, Oregon. All proceeds will go to support Hood River County Search and Rescue. The family would also encourage support of The Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation at http://www.oregonfallenbadge.com/help-support-our-efforts.html

The Memorial Celebration for Mike will be held Sunday, October 15th at Hood River Valley High School gymnasium. The start time is 1:30 p.m., and the public is invited to attend.

Parking at the high school will be limited, so please carpool if able. We are requesting that all media reports include the information where donations should be directed.


Attached Media Files: Deputy Anderson Pre-School

Firefighters from the Lebanon Fire District were called to the area of Green Mountain Drive in Lacomb for a reported funnel cloud which had touched down at Spencer's Dairy Farm at 1:26 p.m. Crews arrived to find that four barns at the dairy had suffered extensive wind damage to their roof structures. Two of the structures totaling over 23,000 square feet were complete losses. A path of debris and damage spread for approximately ?3/4 mile but did not damage to 8 homes within the immediate area. Multiple power lines and tree branches were down across the immediate area but there were no civilian or livestock injuries reported.

For HD photos of this and other LFD incidents visit our Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/LebanonFireDistrict/

Follow LFD on Twitter for breaking information: https://twitter.com/LebanonFD


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/1191/108055/IMG_2514.jpg

(DATE CORRECTION) On September 13, 2017, at approximately 7:15PM, Lincoln City Police Responded to the Spyglass Ridge Open Space on a welfare check of two individuals in a 1993 GMC Typhoon SUV. Upon arriving officers recognized the female in the driver's seat to be Nicolette Willey (Dryke) age 24, of Newport, OR and were aware she was wanted on a Felony warrant for Robbery out of Salem, OR.

When officers advised Willey she was under arrest she attempted drive away, almost striking one of the officers with her vehicle. This officer broke the driver's side window and was able to grab Willey while she was backing up into him. Willey then sped off while he was still holding on to her.

The officer sustained cuts and bruises to his arm, but was able to return to his vehicle and assist other officers with a short pursuit of the vehicle. They lost sight of the vehicle and the pursuit was ended at Schooner Creek Road. The officer was treated and released from Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital with minor injuries.

Lincoln County Deputies later located the vehicle abandoned on private property on Schooner Creek Road.

Willey was accompanied at the time by a passenger identified as Jackson Hall, age 24, also from Newport Or.

Lincoln City Police are seeking charges against Nicolette Willey for Elude-Felony, Escape 1, Assault on a Police Officer-Aggravated, Assault II, Driving While Suspended-Misdemeanor and Reckless Driving, in addition to the Felony warrants against her.

Charges against Hall for Hindering Prosecution are also being filed.

Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of Nicolette Willey or Jackson Hall is asked to call the Lincoln City Police Department at 541-994-3636.


Attached Media Files: Nicolette Willey

Sheriff Curtis Landers announces immediate openings for a new volunteer Sheriff's Office Community Advisory Group. The goal of the group is to provide us with community insight relating to public safety priorities, developing crime prevention strategies and identifying community outreach program opportunities. It is another step for increasing our strong partnerships with the community and continued transparency of our operations.

Sheriff Landers would like to have approximately twelve citizens on the group from various areas around the County. "I am hoping for a very diverse representation of our County demographics who are not afraid to speak up and provide input." said Sheriff Landers.

Once the group is selected, the Sheriff's Office will present a citizen academy to acclimate the participants on the daily operations of the Sheriff's Office. Sheriff Landers stated, "It is important for the group to know and understand how and why we do things in order to provide productive feedback."

The academy will start in November and take about twelve weeks to complete. The academy will require two to four hours of participation each week until completed. Following the academy, Sheriff Landers anticipates the group will meet at least quarterly or however frequent the group determines they should meet.

Interested citizens can complete our online volunteer application through the Sheriff's Office website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net. Click on "volunteer programs" and then "volunteer application". If you need the direct link for the application or have any questions regarding the group, please email us at lcsheriff@co.lincoln.or.us or contact us at 541-265-4277. We will accept applications until Friday, October 6, 2017, at 5:00 pm.

OFFICE OF THE SHERIFF
Sheriff Curtis L. Landers
225 W. Olive Street
Newport, Oregon 97365
(541) 265-4277
Fax (541) 265-4926

TIP OF THE WEEK

Date: September 18, 2017 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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


NEW DISTRACTED DRIVING LAW

"A Distracted Driver Crash occurs every 2.5 hours in Oregon." This information comes from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). On October 1, 2017, a new Oregon law, will go into effect specifically targeting distracted driving while using an electronic device. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA):

From 2011-2015 there were 917 crashes, resulting in 14 fatalities and 1,330 injuries, caused by drivers reported to have been using a cell phone at the time of the crash.
From 2011-2015 there were 110 crashes, resulting in 166 injuries caused by drivers aged 16 to 18 who were reported to have been using a cell phone at the time of the crash.

Oregon House Bill 2597 makes it illegal to drive while holding or using an electronic device such as a cell phone, tablet, GPS or laptop. There are some exceptions to this law that you may need to prove to the court if ticketed. The new law does not apply to the following:

When using hands-free or built-in devices, if you are 18 years of age or older.
If you use just a single touch or swipe to activate or deactivate the device.
While providing or summoning medical help and no one else is available to make the call: when parked safely, i.e., stopped at the side of the road or in a designated parking spot. It is NOT legal to use the device when stopped at a stop light, stop sign, in traffic, etc.
Ambulance, emergency vehicle operators, police, fire or EMS providers in the scope of their employment.

Violations and fines associated with the new law have been updated accordingly: a first offense that doesn't contribute to a crash is a Class B Violation with a maximum fine of $1000. A second offense (or if the first offense contributes to a crash) is a Class A violation with a maximum fine of $2,500. A third offense within ten years is a Class B misdemeanor and could result in a $6,250 fine and up to one year in jail.

For a first offense that does not contribute to a crash, the court may suspend the fine if the driver completes an approved distracted driving avoidance class, and shows proof to the court, within four months. Only the fine is suspended -- the violation will still be recorded on the offender's driving record.

For more information about this law and distracted driving, go to ODOT's website at www.oregon.gov/ODOT.

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: 2017-09/5490/107929/091817-New_Distracted_Driving_Law.pdf

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports today, at 12:28 p.m. deputies responded to the 3400 block of Spicer Drive, east of Albany, for a report of a car that crashed into a house.

The investigation revealed a 1999 black Chevrolet Camaro was eastbound on Spicer Drive, traveling at approximately 45 MPH, when it failed to negotiate a corner. The vehicle left the road, crashed through a chain link fence and struck the side of a house, before coming to a stop.

The operator, identified as Raymond William Huffman, 53, of Lebanon, told deputies he was on his way home after work when he nodded off. Huffman drove off the road, crossing the intersection at Redwood Street, through a ditch, and then into the side of the house. Huffman was the only occupant of the vehicle.

Albany Fire Department Paramedics treated Williams for minor injuries at the scene. Although the residence was occupied at the time of the crash, no one was injured. The residence sustained a cracked foundation and damage to the siding.

Huffman was wearing his seat belt and alcohol did not appear to be a factor in the crash. Huffman was issued citations for Driving While Suspended-violation, No Insurance and Careless Driving.


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/2993/107991/DSCN0143.jpg , 2017-09/2993/107991/DSCN0138.jpg

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports on September 14, 2017, at 6:30 p.m., the Linn County Sheriff's Office 9-1-1 Dispatch Center received a call reporting a child had been struck by a vehicle on Broadway Street near 3rd Street in Mill City.

Deputies learned a 10-year-old female from Mill City was on her way to the School Book Fair, when struck in the crosswalk on Broadway Street, by a 2005 Dodge Caravan, driven by Natasha Marie Lynn Bodda, 20, of Mill City. Witnesses to the crash reported Bodda was traveling west on Broadway Street at approximately 30 to 35 MPH and after striking the child, slowed down, but then accelerated away from the scene.

A witness to the crash chased after Bodda and caught up with her several blocks west of the scene. Bodda agreed to return to the scene of the accident with the witness and waited for law enforcement to arrive.

The child was transported to Salem Hospital by ambulance and then to OHSU, to receive surgery for non-life threatening injuries.

Bodda was arrested and lodged at the Linn County Jail for charges of DUII Drugs-Marijuana, Failure to Perform Duties as a Driver in an Injury Motor Vehicle Crash, Assault II, Driving While Suspended-Violation, Driving Uninsured and Failure to Yield Right of Way to Pedestrian.

Linn County Deputies were assisted by members of the Mill City Fire Department, Lyons Fire Department and the Linn County Multi-Agency Investigation Team.
The investigation is continuing.

Today in cooperation with fire officials and Marion County Emergency Management the decision was made to move the Breitenbush Hot Springs and the Breitenbush summer homes to a level 1 or a ready evacuation state.

Recent rainfall has reduced the fire danger, however residents should be cautious when returning home. The continued forecast has called for additional rains and the potential for mudslides in the area.

The Breitenbush area will remain in a level 1 or ready state until the fire danger is no longer of concern which will most likely be sometime this fall or winter.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office would like to thank all of the personnel involved in the firefighting efforts during the Whitewater, Little Devil and Scorpion fires in Marion County.



Despite recent rain fall fire officials in cooperation with Marion County Emergency Management have elected to remain at a level 3 or "Go" evacuation for the Breitenbush Hot Springs and Breitenbush Summer Homes.

The decision was made after weather experts determined a risk for thunder and lightening in the Santiam Canyon. Forest conditions remain at an extreme danger for fire even with recent rains.

Please follow the Marion County Emergency Alerts web page for the most up to date information concerning evacuations in Marion County.



September 15th, 2017, the level 3 evacuation, "Go" remains in effect for the areas of Breitenbush Hot Springs and the Breitenbush Summer Homes. If you are in the area please leave immediately. The areas surrounding the hot spring remain closed to public access and visitors are asked to seek alternate areas to recreate. Updates regarding evacuation in the Marion County area can be found here: http://www.co.marion.or.us/Alerts



Today the Marion County Sheriff's Office was advised to move to a level 3 evacuation for the areas of Breitenbush Hot Springs and the Breitenbush Summer Homes. These areas are now being threatened by the Little Devil Fire and are no longer considered safe for occupation.

Working in cooperation with the Marion County Board of Commissioners, Marion County Emergency Management and the Marion County Fire Defense Board, deputy sheriffs will be responding to the area and posting the residences and notify building occupants that it is recommended they evacuate immediately.

The Breitenbush area is a vacation destination with very few permanent residents and the area has been at a level 2 evacuation for several weeks, as a result few residents remain in the area. The intent of the evacuation is to notify those few remaining residents and message to those planning to come to the area to seek other options until the area is safe for return.

For the most up to date information on Marion County evacuations please go to Alerts and Emergency tab on the Marion County web page:
http://www.co.marion.or.us/Alerts


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/1294/107938/Ready_Set_Go.jpg , 2017-09/1294/107938/Posting.jpg

On September 13, 2017 at 12:45 pm McMinnville Fire and Police personnel responded to a reported vehicle fire at 2433 NE Baker Street McMinnville. As fire units were arriving, they noticed that the residence was also on fire and addressed the entire scene. Fire units entered the residence and located a deceased female adult inside. The female was identified as Kimberly Ann Nelson (47) of McMinnville. Cause of death and manner of death are still being determined.

The Major Crimes Response Team was activated to investigate the scene. Members from the McMinnville Police Department, Newberg-Dundee Police Department, Yamhill County Sheriff's Office, Oregon State Police and McMinnville Fire Department are continuing the investigation.

There is no further danger to the general public from this incident. NE Baker Street is still closed to through traffic between Baker Creek Road and 27th Street. It will be reopened once the scene has been released. No further details will be released at this time.

As Sheriff, I attended an event with Attorney General Jeff Sessions today hoping to have an opportunity to engage in a productive dialogue about the role of federal immigration versus the role of local law enforcement.

The role of local public safety is clear -- codified in Oregon law and affirmed by the courts -- we are not a de facto arm of federal immigration. During today's discussion, Attorney General Sessions refused to acknowledge the 2014 federal court decision barring Oregon Sheriff's from holding adults in custody based solely on ICE detainers.

There are legal ways for federal, state, and local law enforcement to cooperate to help keep our communities safe and I support those efforts. These include holding offenders accountable on state and federal criminal matters.

I want to be clear, I fundamentally believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

As a result, established MCSO policies and practices remain in place. Our most important obligation is to maintain a trusting relationship with the community to keep everyone safe.

Thank you,

Michael Reese
SHERIFF

###

The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office has continued to receive calls from concerned members of the community regarding a phone scam being used to elicit money and confidential personal information.

Community members are receiving calls from an individual who identifies as a Multnomah County Sheriff's Office employee and indicates that the victim has a warrant, unpaid court fines, or has missed jury duty, and needs to pay immediately or be arrested. Victims are being asked to provide sensitive personal information and credit card numbers to resolve the warrant and/or pay the fines.

We are reminding our community members that MCSO does not conduct matters concerning warrant service or payment of fines via phone.

If you are contacted by someone claiming to be a member of MCSO who is requesting money over the phone, you can help us by getting as much information as possible;
Time and date of the call;
Contact number of the person calling;
Name used by the person calling; and
Listen for anything that stands out that may assist detectives.

Immediately after hanging up the phone, please call the police non-emergency line at (503) 823-3333 and ask to speak with a deputy sheriff to file a report.

Please help us spread this message: If you, or someone you know, is contacted by a person claiming to be a member of MCSO and asking for money;
DO NOT SEND MONEY;
DO NOT PROVIDE PERSONAL INFORMATION; and,
Contact (503) 823-3333 to be put in contact with a deputy sheriff to file a report.

###

A combination of successful firefighting efforts and recent rains has allowed fire crews to continue making progress on the fire lines along the west side of the Eagle Creek Fire.

Effective immediately, ALL evacuation orders in Multnomah County have been lifted.

Residents are reminded that with the recent fire and subsequent rains, the dangers of falling trees, rocks, debris flows, landslides and flooding is greatly increased in the Columbia River Gorge. If you see landslide activity where there is no immediate danger, please report it to (503) 823-3333. In the event of an emergency, please dial 911 immediately.

Access to the communities of Dodson, Warrendale, Bridal Veil, and Latourell is limited to residents only, as a result of road closures on both the Historic Columbia Highway and eastbound I-84. Residents in these communities should report to the Troutdale Police Community Center (234 SW Kendall Ct. Troutdale, OR) to receive instructions and permits to access closed roadways.

All United States Forest Service lands and Oregon State Parks in the Gorge remain closed at this time. Access to these areas continues to be prohibited. In addition, Larch Mountain Road is closed above Red Elder Drive and there is no access to Sherrard Point. MCSO would like to remind members of the public that anyone accessing closed areas may be subject to criminal investigation.

MCSO wishes to thank our community for their patience and resilience throughout this challenging event.

After consultation with fire officials, it has been determined that the west end of the Eagle Creek Fire lines have been secured to a point which allows additional changes to evacuation levels.

MCSO would like to acknowledge the dedicated work of fire crews who built these lines to protect our community.

As of 12:00 noon today, September 15, MCSO is downgrading all Level 3 evacuation orders to Level 2 evacuation orders.

Please understand that a Level 2 notice means you still need to be set to leave at any time, in the event the fire behavior changes.

All residents moving from a Level 3 evacuation to a Level 2 evacuation, are asked to visit the Re-Entry Center established at:

Corbett Community Church
34309 NE Mershon Road, Corbett OR


Please be sure to bring identification to receive credentials and instructions on returning to your neighborhood. The Center will be open Friday from noon to midnight, and Saturday from 8am to 12pm.

We'd like to remind all residents that only household pets should return with their owners, and that large livestock and horses remain out of these areas until evacuation orders are lifted.

Questions regarding evacuations in Multnomah County can be directed to 211.
You can find an interactive map of the evacuation areas at multco.us

If you are a resident of Hood River County, please continue to monitor updates from the Hood River County Sheriff's Office.

On behalf of Sheriff Mike Reese and the entire agency, thank you for your patience, and welcome home.

On September 27, 2017 from 5:00PM-8:00PM the Oregon City Police Department, in partnership with Arta Potties and Trent Clinkscales of Clinkscales Portable Toilets and Septic Service, will be launching an Arta Potties pilot program in Oregon City. Arta Potties is a community organized project, founded in Salem Oregon, with a mission to provide clean/safe/aesthetically appealing portable toilets. The pilot program will consist of two Arta Potties placed in downtown Oregon City providing access to public restrooms 24 hours a day.

OCPD is taking a proactive approach to concerns from the community and business owners regarding people relieving themselves outdoors on both public and private property. We also recognize the need for access to restrooms 24 hours a day, specifically for our homeless population who may not have access to restrooms otherwise.

The owner of Clinkscales Portable Toilets and Septic Service in Molalla, Trent Clinkscales, served as a key element in making this innovative solution a reality in Oregon City. It took nothing more than a phone call to Mr. Clinkscales for him to graciously provide OCPD with support in the project. Mr. Clinkscales was so supportive in fact, he donated a portable toilet and committed to splitting the cost of servicing both portable toilets with OCPD. A huge thank you is in order for Clinkscales Portable Toilets and Septic Service for their support in making our community a cleaner/safer place.

With guidance and expertise from Rebecca Courtney of Arta Potties, we have selected an 1889 photograph of the Oregon City-West Linn Suspension Bridge to be displayed on one of the Arta Potties. The photograph was selected from the Clackamas County Historical Society collection. The second of the Arta Potties will be displaying an oil painting from Roger Yost Gallery called "Totality" by artist Tina Palmer.

Please join us at the Oregon City Municipal Parking Lot at 1220 Main St. in Oregon City on 9/27/17 from 5:00PM-8:00PM. The artistic wraps for the selected artwork will be applied to the Arta Potties during the event and the Timothy James Band will be providing live music.

For questions, please contact OCPD Homeless Liaison Officer Mike Day: mday@orcity.org

Clinkscales Portable Toilets and Septic Service:
www.clinkscalestoilets.com

Timothy James Band:
www.timothyjamesmusic.com

Arta Potties on Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/search/top/?q=arta%20potties&tsid=0.6001192985568196&source=result


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/1388/107926/arta_potties.jpg

Eagle Creek Fire Size: 48,387 acres
Eagle Creek Fire Containment: 32%

Archer Fire Size: 260 acres
Archer Fire Containment: 100%

Summary

Rain began falling across the fire late Sunday afternoon, reducing fire activity. Earlier in the day gusty west winds did increase fire behavior in some areas, especially on the east side of Shellrock Mountain where bucket drops were used to cool hot spots. A column of smoke was also visible as fire burned slowly south in the Herman Creek drainage.

Firefighters were ready to engage where necessary, but spent most of the day preparing fire lines for rains predicted this week. Work included removing unneeded equipment and building water bars to mitigate erosion along fire lines.

Lines are well secured on the southwest corner and along the I-84 corridor to Wyeth. All contingency lines along the south and east sides remains in place, though no significant additional growth is expected on the fire given predicted weather. Even with rain, smoldering and creeping fire can be expected within the fire perimeter for some time. Smoke will continue to be visible.

Resources will be released from the fire over the next several days, but an adequate number of crews will be retained to continue patrols and other work along the fire line. Fire managers will monitor conditions to ensure they are safe for firefighters. Crews may be moved from the line to safe locations if conditions warrant.

Both the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and the Mt. Hood National Forest have issued signed closure orders for areas within and surrounding the Eagle Creek Fire. We want to emphasize the importance of adhering to these closures and not attempting to enter a closed area. Rolling rocks, falling trees, and loose soil resulting from the rain make it hazardous to travel within these areas. You put yourself and first responders at risk if you breach a closure.

The Archer Mountain fire in Skamania County, Washington is 100% contained. Equipment back-haul and fire line repair will continue today.

A cold front moved over the fire Sunday night, bringing significant precipitation. Showers, heavy at times, are predicted Monday and Tuesday, with another significant front moving over the fire Wednesday. As precipitation falls across the fire new hazards may emerge, including falling rock and trees on steep slopes and cliffs. If heavier precipitation hits later this week, debris flows are possible in smaller streams and channels.

Resources Assigned: 16 crews (1-Type 1, 8-Type 2, 7-Type 2 Initial Attack); 23 Engines; 7 Helicopters; 2 Dozers; 3 Water Tenders; 626 Personnel

Additional fire, closure and evacuation information can be found at:

Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5584/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EagleCreekandIndianCreekFires2017/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/eaglecreekfire
Oregon Smoke Information: https://oregonsmoke.blogspot.com/
Multnomah County Sheriff Flash Alert: https://www.flashalert.net/id/MCSO
Hood River County Sheriff: http://www.hoodriversheriff.com/news/breaking-news/
Road Closures: https://tripcheck.com
Firewise Information: http://www.firewise.org/

Eagle Creek Fire Size: 45,579 acres

Eagle Creek Fire Containment: 32%

Archer Fire Size: 260 acres
Archer Fire Containment: 100%

A community meeting is scheduled for 12 PM on Saturday, September 16 at the Hood River Valley High School to share information on the Eagle Creek Fire.

Summary:

Firefighter control efforts focus on the outer perimeter of the fire. Smoke and flames may be visible as pockets of unburned fuel are consumed within the interior of the fire.

Temperatures remain seasonable with a high of 72 degrees with east, northeast winds at 15-25 mph. The relative humidity remains low ranging from 20-30 percent. Saturday evening into Sunday winds are expected to begin shifting to the southwest, as a cold front moves into the area bringing cloudy conditions, a chance of precipitation, higher humidity and lower temperatures.

Active fire behavior is expected primarily on the southern and western edge of the fire with dry conditions and east, northeast winds. Firefighters will be reinforcing and holding lines along the west side of the fire. The Bell Creek drainage is expected to receive windy conditions and active fire behavior. Aerial operations will support firefighters with direct water drops to assist holding and firing operations as conditions allow. Mop up continues along the Interstate 84 corridor and reinforcement of lines on the east side of the fire. Work to stabilize fire lines in advance of possible precipitation will be occurring all over the fire area.

Today Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) task forces will continue work making structures better prepared against wildfire. Weather and fire conditions will be monitored to ensure that fire crews are best positioned to protect structures in the event of increased fire behavior.

The Archer Mountain Fire is 100 percent contained with crews on site continuing mop-up, patrol and rehabilitation of fire lines.


Resources Assigned: 27 crews (5-Type 1, 14-Type 2, 8-Type 2 Initial Attack); 61 Engines; 12 Helicopters; 9 Dozers; 18 Water Tenders; 1,060 Personnel.


Additional fire, closure and evacuation information can be found at:

Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5584/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EagleCreekandIndianCreekFires2017/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/eaglecreekfire
Oregon Smoke Information: https://oregonsmoke.blogspot.com/
Multnomah County Sheriff Flash Alert: https://www.flashalert.net/id/MCSO
Hood River County Sheriff: http://www.hoodriversheriff.com/news/breaking-news/
Road Closures: https://tripcheck.com
Firewise Information: http://www.firewise.org/

Eagle Creek Fire Size: 41,550 acres

Eagle Creek Fire Containment: 28%

(Archer Fire Size: 260 Acres -Archer Fire Containment: 100%)


A community meeting has been scheduled for noon on Saturday, September 16 at the Hood River Valley High School to share information on the Eagle Creek Fire.


Summary:

Interstate 84 opened to westbound traffic last night. Crews have worked hard for more than a week to reinforce fire line, remove hazard trees, and address other public safety concerns. Fire line has been completed along I-84 from Bridal Veil to Cascade Locks. Drivers are reminded to obey posted speed limits, be aware of changing visibility and watch out for other hazards. All exits between Hood River and Troutdale will remain closed. Drivers are not to stop along the highway.

Yesterday, aircraft dropped nearly 100,000 gallons of water on the fire. Today, resources will be focused on the northeast corner of the fire to help protect the communities, infrastructure, and other values at risk there as burnout operations continue from Cascade Locks east to Mitchell Point. If conditions permit, helicopters may be used to assist with burnout operations west of Wyeth to bring fire down to the powerline corridor in a controlled manner. Crews will also be reinforcing line from Mitchell Point south to Wahtum Lake.

On the west side, fire is most active in the Bell Creek area. Crews will be constructing direct hand line and bucket drops may be used to cool hotspots in that area. Indirect dozer line will be connected to the powerline corridor near Larch Mountain to form a continuous line to the south.

Oregon State Fire Marshal crews will continue to patrol residences near the eastern edge of the fire. Two additional task forces have arrived to support the structural assessment and preparation work being performed in Hood River.

Command of the Archer Mountain Fire transferred to the Eagle Creek Unified Command at 0600 this morning. The Archer Mountain Fire is 100 percent contained. Crews will continue to mop-up and patrol.

Weather is expected to remain cooler with light winds. Friday evening and Saturday may bring lower relative humidity and a shift to light northeast winds. Significant precipitation is still forecast for early next week.

Resources Assigned: 26 crews (5-Type 1, 14-Type 2, 7-Type 2 Initial Attack); 54 Engines; 12 Helicopters; 9 Dozers; 16 Water Tenders; 967 Personnel

Additional fire, closure and evacuation information can be found at:

Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5584/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EagleCreekandIndianCreekFires2017/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/eaglecreekfire
Oregon Smoke Information: https://oregonsmoke.blogspot.com/
Multnomah County Sheriff Flash Alert: https://www.flashalert.net/id/MCSO
Hood River County Sheriff: http://www.hoodriversheriff.com/news/breaking-news/
Road Closures: https://tripcheck.com
Firewise Information: http://www.firewise.org/

Winds, which pushed the fire beyond Nick Eaton Ridge in the northeast corner yesterday, calmed overnight and are anticipated to remain light today. The fire still is expected to continue growing, mainly to the south and to a lesser extent the east, but at a slower rate. Air resources may also be used to help slow the fire's spread. Line is in place along the I-84 corridor from Herman Creek east to Mitchell Point and if conditions permit, firefighters will conduct burn out operations to strengthen that line.

Mop-up is almost complete along the I-84 corridor from Bridal Veil to Warrendale. Crews will now begin focusing their mop-up efforts east toward Cascade Locks. On the southwest and southeast perimeters, contingency line, which primarily follows powerline corridors and roads, is nearly complete. The fire is expected to continue its low intensity burn in Tanner and Big Cedar Springs.

Powerlines serving Cascade Locks from the west have been re-energized following operations to remove snags and complete repairs.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal continues to maintain four structural protection task forces (two working during the day and two at night). These crews are working along with our wildland partners to improve containment lines by supporting burnout operations and patrolling residential areas. As conditions change, these firefighters will be positioned to provide the best protection for homes and other buildings.

Weather is predicted to remain cooler with higher relative humidity and light winds through this evening. Friday and Saturday may present some challenges, with a potential for light east winds and lower relative humidity. A significant rain event is still predicted for Sunday evening and Monday.

Contact Information: Fire Information 541-392-1632 (8 a.m.-8 p.m.) or eaglecreekfire2017@gmail.com

Location: Hood River and Multnomah Counties, Oregon; originated 1 mile south of Cascade Locks, Oregon

Start Date: September 2, 2017, 4:02 p.m. Size: Approximately 37,567 acres


Cause: Under Investigation Percent Contained: 17

Resources Assigned: 26 crews (5-Type 1, 14-Type 2, 7-Type 2 Initial Attack); 46 Engines; 12 Helicopters; 9 Dozers; 15 Water Tenders; 934 Personnel

Additional fire, closure and evacuation information can be found at the following sites:

Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5584/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EagleCreekandIndianCreekFires2017/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/eaglecreekfire

Oregon Smoke Information: https://oregonsmoke.blogspot.com/

Multnomah County Sheriff Flash Alert: https://www.flashalert.net/id/MCSO

Hood River County Sheriff: http://www.hoodriversheriff.com/news/breaking-news/

Road Closures: https://tripcheck.com

Firewise Information: http://www.firewise.org/

Update

On September 19, 2017 at approximately 7:06am, the Oregon State Police received a report of a deceased male subject that had washed up on the ocean shore on Short Sands Beach, which is within the boundaries of Oswald West State Park. The Oregon State Police and Nehalem Bay Fire and rescue responded to the area. The deceased male subject was located and his remains were recovered. He was positively identified as Joseph McDonald Lescene. The Tillamook County Medical Examiner assisted with the investigation.


####

Previous Release

At approximately 3:21 p.m., on September 11, 2017, Tillamook County 911 received an emergency call regarding a male who had fallen off the cliff near Devil's Cauldron, also known as Elk Flats, and was missing in the water. The US Coast Guard, Oregon State Police, Manzanita Police Department, Tillamook County Sheriff's Office, Nehalem Bay Fire & Rescue, and Tillamook Regional Medical Center Ambulance responded to the scene.

Investigation revealed Joseph McDonald Lescene, age 51, and Sarah Jones Lescene, age 42 from British Columbia were hiking on the bluff near the end of the trail when Joseph Lescene lost his footing and fell down the face of the cliff and into the water below, an approximate 800 foot drop. Others sightseeing in the area heard Sarah Jones Lescene's distress on the trail and contacted 911. Responding Nehalem Bay Fire & Rescue recovered a backpack in the water below the cliff, which Joseph Lescene had been wearing at the time of the fall.

At this time, he has not been recovered and foul play is not suspected.

US Coast Guard utilized both rescue boats and helicopter to conduct search and rescue efforts which terminated at sunset. No foul pay is suspected

The investigation is ongoing.


Attached Media Files: Caption 4 , Caption 3 , Caption 2 , Caption 1 , 2017-09/1002/107834/View_1.jpg , 2017-09/1002/107834/View_2.jpg

On September 19, 2017 at about 3:45 p.m., Troopers and emergency responders were dispatched to a report of a multiple vehicle crash on Highway 18 near North Deer Drive just outside of Otis in Lincoln County.

The preliminary investigation revealed a dark green 1995 Eagle Talon, was westbound on Highway 18 at about MP 4. For unknown reasons, it drifted into the oncoming eastbound lane and crashed head-on into a 2016 red Ford Explorer. A white 1993 Subaru Legacy, which was following the Talon, was struck by the Talon as it spun back into the westbound lane. A secondary crash occurred at the scene after a westbound Kia Sedan Struck a stopped Chevy Cavalier a few yards from the original crash.

The driver of the Talon was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Driver of the Ford Explorer, 68 year old Robert James and his passenger, 67 year old Barbara James, both residents of Grand Ronde, were transported to a Lincoln City area hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the Subaru, 25 year old Anjali Singh of Lincoln City was not injured.

The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending a notification to the family.

Use of a controlled substance by the deceased is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash. The Highway was closed for approximately 3 hours and ODOT had established a detour. OSP was assisted on scene by the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, North Lincoln Fire Department, ODOT, and Pac West Ambulance.


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/1002/108060/SR18_Crash.jpg

The following is released on behalf and in coordination with the Klamath County District Attorney's Office.

Klamath County D.A. Media Release

Tuesday, September 19, 2017 / 8:45 am

MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release

On September 17, 2017, at 12:03 a.m. Arnie Lee Eggsman (32 years of age) of Chiloquin, Oregon was shot and killed in Chiloqin. The Major Crime Team was activated and investigators from Oregon State Police, the Klamath County Sheriff's Office and Klamath Falls Police Department responded to investigate.

Local Chiloquin residents and witnesses immediately provided valuable information to assist the investigators and the two suspects were quickly identified as Kyle Joseph Steele (DOB 8/29/1996) and Tevin R. Lafond (DOB 8/29/1996). Both have the same date of birth

Oregon State Police took the lead on the murder investigation. Yesterday evening, with the cooperation of Nevada Law Enforcement, OSP Detectives took first Tevin R. Lafond into custody and later around 11:30 p.m. arrested Kyle Steele. Both suspects will be extradited to the State of Oregon and prosecuted here in Klamath County for murder, assault I, unlawful use of a weapon, and unlawful use of a motor vehicle and other potential charges. Law enforcement and the Klamath County District Attorney want to bring them them to justice and bring swift closure to the family and friends of the victim.

Media Contact:
Eve Costello, Klamath County District Attorney
541-331-3851

End Release

Please direct any further media inquires to the Klamath County District Attorney's Office


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/1002/108039/Eggsman_Murder_september_19_2017.docx

At about 7:40 p.m. on September 18, 2017, Oregon State Police Dispatch received a call of a green 2003 Ford Windstar van traveling the wrong way on I-84 near milepost 141, east of Arlington. Minutes later at milepost 137, the van was reported to have crashed head-on into a semi tractor-trailer carrying vehicles in the eastbound lanes.

The preliminary investigation revealed the van had traveled westbound in the eastbound lanes and according to witness statements, had been traveling at 55 to 60 mph. The van crashed into the semi head on and came to a rest on top of the concrete center-line divider. The semi caught fire and became fully engulfed in flames, completely blocking the entire interstate for several hours.

The driver and sole occupant of the van was pronounced deceased at the scene and his identity is being withheld pending notification to the family. The driver of the semi, identified as 24 year old California resident, Santos Colunga, was treated for non-life threatening injuries at the scene.

OSP was assisted on-scene by Gilliam County Sheriff's Office, ODOT, North Gilliam Fire and the Department of Environmental Quality.


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/1002/108031/output.jpg , 2017-09/1002/108031/IMG955438.jpg

On September 18, 2017 the Oregon State Police responded to a single motor vehicle collision on Interstate 205 just north of Interstate 5 in Washington County.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a black 2016 Nissan Altima, operated by Douglas Cansdale, age 53 of Portland Oregon, was traveling northbound on I205 just north of I5, when for an unknown reason Cansdale lost control of his vehicle and drifted off the roadway. Cansdale collided with a metal guardrail, continued across the grassy median and collided into a light pole. It is believed that speed and the wet roadway surface were contributing factors.

Cansdale sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Cansdale was released to the Springer and Son Funeral Home and notification was made to the next of kin.
OSP was assisted by ODOT, Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue, and Washington County ME's Office.


Attached Media Files: Crash Photo , Crash Photo

The Oregon State Police Fish & Wildlife Division is asking the public's help to identify the person(s) responsible for the unlawful taking and wasting of a buck deer in Crook County.
On the afternoon of September 16th, 2017, OSP was notified of a dead buck deer north of Prineville located 1 ?1/2 miles from McKay Creek on McKay Creek Road (USFS 33). The deer was located approximately 75 yards from the roadway and the 2x3 buck only had a portion of one back-strap removed. The rest of the buck was left to waste. The buck deer had been shot with a rifle during the archery season. It is believed this occurred September 14th or 15th prior to the poaching discovery.

If you have any information please contact the Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division at your local office or use the below information to report wildlife violators on the TIP Line.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

Poaching wildlife and damaging habitats affects present and future generations of wildlife, impacts communities and the economy, and creates enforcement challenges.

The Turn-In-Poachers (TIP) reward is paid for information leading to the arrest/conviction of person(s) for the illegal possession, killing, taking, and/or waste of deer, elk, antelope, bear, cougar, wolf, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, moose, furbearers and/or game birds.

TIP rewards can also be given for the illegal taking, netting, snagging, and/or dynamiting of salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and/or large numbers of any fish listed in Oregon statute as a game fish.

In addition, a reward may be issued for information that results in an arrest/conviction of a person who has illegally obtained Oregon hunting/angling license or tags. People who "work" the system and falsely apply for resident licenses and/or tags are not legally hunting and/or angling and are considered poachers.

Increasing damage to wildlife habitat by off-road vehicles prompted the Oregon Hunters

Association (OHA) in 2009 to create the Natural Resources Reward Program that offers a $300 reward for information leading to the arrest of anyone causing natural resources damage by the illegal use of motorized vehicles and is similar to its highly successful TIP program.

$1,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat and Moose

$500 Elk, Deer and Antelope

$300 Bear, Cougar and Wolf

$300 Habitat Destruction

$100 Game Fish and Shellfish

$100 Upland Birds and Waterfowl

$100 Furbearers

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 (24/7)

TIP E-Mail: TIP@state.or.us (Monitored M-F 8:00AM - 5:00PM)


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/1002/108023/20170916_142316_resized.jpg

On September 16, 2017 OSP responded to a report of a small aircraft collision on the Nehalem Bay State Park airstrip.

Preliminary investigation revealed that at approximately 5:14pm, a crash involving an aircraft occurred on the airstrip at Nehalem Bay State Park. The involved pilot was identified as Todd William Rudberg, age 49, from Shoreline, Washington. There was one additional passenger in the plane identified as Valerie Anne Villacin, age 43, from Seattle, Washington.

The aircraft was a 2003 Vans Aircraft Model RV8, single engine, fixed wing plane belonging to Mr. Rudberg. The crash occurred when Mr. Rudberg attempted to land the plane. He had fully touched down on the airstrip and was slowing down when an elk ran in front of the plane. He attempted to speed up and relaunch the plane in order to fly over the elk without hitting it. The propeller and right side landing gear struck the elk and killed it. Another elk ran in front of the plane and was struck by the left wing. The second elk was also killed. The plane spun around and came to a stop on the airstrip. The plane was totaled as a result of the crash and none of the occupants were injured. The FAA has temporarily closed the Nehalem Bay State Park Airstrip and will be conducting an investigation of the incident.

Troopers from the Oregon State Police- Tillamook Worksite responded and investigated the incident. Assisting the Oregon State Police were Nehalem Bay Fire and Rescue, the Manzanita Department of Public Safety, and employees of Nehalem Bay State Park. A large quantity of elk meat was salvaged by the responding Fish and Wildlife troopers.


Attached Media Files: Aircraft Photos

On September 13, 2017 at 9:34 PM, OSP Troopers responded to a fatal single motor vehicle rollover crash on Jerome Prairie Road near the intersection of Helms Road in rural Josephine County near Grants Pass.

Preliminary investigation revealed a light blue 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit was travelling west on Jerome Prairie Road approaching the intersection at Helms Road. The Volkswagen veered slightly off the roadway while negotiating a curve and rolled over landing on its top in the eastbound lane. The driver, David Anthony Romero (45) of Grants Pass was found seat belted in the vehicle upon police arrival. Romero was pronounced deceased on scene by emergency medical personnel.

A passenger, Scott Thomas Taylor (46) of Grants Pass was transported by ambulance to Three Rivers Medical Center in Grants Pass with non-life threatening injuries. Speed and possible alcohol are suspected to be contributing factors to the crash.

OSP was assisted on scene by Rural Metro Fire, Grants Pass Fire, American Medical Response, and Hull and Hull Funeral Home.


Attached Media Files: Vehicle Photo

The Major Crash Team (MCT) continues to investigate a crash that occurred Monday evening at Northeast Lombard Street and Northeast 15th Avenue.

Investigators have learned a gold 2003 Toyota Camry was traveling west on Northeast Lombard Street at a high rate of speed when it crashed into a blue 1988 F350 pickup truck traveling east on Northeast Lombard Street.

The vehicles collided, causing catastrophic damage to both vehicles.

North Precinct officers, Portland Fire and Rescue and emergency medical personnel arrived on scene and located two deceased people and four people with serious injuries. The four seriously injured people were transported to area hospitals by ambulance.

Investigators with the Major Crash Team, criminalists assigned to the Forensic Evidence Division, a representative from the Multnomah County District Attorney's Office, and personnel with the Oregon Department of Transportation responded to the crash scene to assist with the investigation.

One of the deceased people in this crash has been identified as 12-year-old Akeeylee Burton of Scapoose. Akeeylee Burton was a passenger in the 1988 F350 pickup truck. The other person who was found deceased at the crash scene will not be identified until next of kin are notified. The second deceased person was a passenger in the 2003 Toyota Camry.

Currently four people are at area hospitals as a result of this crash; one person is currently in critical condition, two in serious condition, and one in stable condition.

As a result of the preliminary investigation, intoxication and vehicle speed are believed to be a factor in this crash.

The people killed in this crash mark the 30th and 31st traffic related fatalities in the City of Portland during 2017.

Anyone with information about this crash should contact Officer Garrett Dow at 503-823-5070 or Garrett.Dow@portlandoregon.gov

###PPB###

###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###

On Monday September 18, 2017, at 8:46 p.m., North Precinct officers responded to the report of a traffic crash at Northeast 15th Avenue and Northeast Lombard Street regarding a multiple vehicle crash.

Officers and medical personnel arrived and located the crash scene where they found two persons who were deceased and four people with serious-life-threatening injuries. The four people who sustained serious-life-threatening injuries were transported to area hospitals by ambulances.

Northeast Lombard Street is closed from Northeast 13th Avenue to Northeast 18th Avenue. Northeast 15th Avenue is closed from Northeast Lombard Street to Northeast Buffalo Street. The roadways will remain closed in both directions for at least four 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 Portland Police Bureau directs member action through the establishment of policy, procedure, and rule, as found within Directives. The Bureau is in the process of reviewing all of its Directives and seeks public comments.

The Bureau has extended the comment period for the following directives due to a technical glitch in our public notification system to subscribers through the Directives webpage.

These directives in 2nd Universal Review will remain posted with comments collected from Friday, Sep 1, 2017, through Thursday, Sep 21, 2017.

Directive 215.00 Member Performance Evaluations, originally titled Sworn Represented
Member Performance Evaluations
Directive 220.40 Lawsuits and Claims
Directive 315.30, Satisfactory Performance
Directive 1501.00 Field Training Program

Community members are encouraged to read these Directive at https://www.portlandoregon.gov/police/59757 and follow the link at the bottom of the drafts to provide comments. This webpage also enables community members to sign up for email notifications when new or revised directives are posted.


###PPB###


Attached Media Files: Policy Manual

The victim of a homicide that occurred on Sunday September 17, 2017 in the 3600 block of Southeast 28th Avenue has been identified as 27-year-old Wilbert "Billy" Butler.

The Oregon State Medical Examiner determined Wilbert "Billy" Butler died of homicidal violence as a result of multiple gunshot wounds.

Anyone with information about this investigation should contact Detective Mark Slater at 503-823-9319 or Mark.Slater@portlandoregon.gov

###PPB###

###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###


The man who was injured during a shooting that occurred early Sunday morning has died at a Portland hospital.

The Oregon State Medical Examiner will perform an autopsy to determine the cause of death. The identity of the victim is planned to be released at the conclusion of the autopsy and once the victim's next of kin are notified.

Detectives continue to investigate this death. Investigators have canvassed the area and have located evidence of gunfire.

Southeast 28th Place and Southeast 28th Avenue between Southeast Powell Boulevard and Southeast Rhone Street should re-open in the next hour.

Anyone with information about this investigation should contact Detective Mark Slater at 503-823-9319 or Mark.Slater@portlandoregon.gov

###PPB###

###ORIGINAL MESSAGE BELOW###

On Sunday September 17, 2017 at 1:41 a.m., Central Precinct officers responded to the 3600 block of Southeast 28th Avenue on multiple reports of gunfire.

Officers arrived at the scene and located an injured adult male.

Emergency medical personnel were directed to the injured man and he was transported to an area hospital by ambulance with life threatening injuries.

Based on the severity of the victim's injuries, the Portland Police Bureau Detective Division's Homicide Detail is responding to the scene. Criminalists with the Forensic Evidence Division have also responded to the scene to assist with this investigation.

There is no suspect information to provide at this point in the investigation.

Southeast 28th Place and Southeast 28th Avenue are closed between Southeast Powell Boulevard and Southeast Rhone Street. These roads will remain closed for the next four to five hours.

Any interested media should respond to the southwest corner of Southeast 29th Avenue and Southeast Powell Boulevard. The Public Information Officer is responding.

Anyone with information about this case should contact the Portland Police non-emergency line at 503-823-3333.

###PPB###

On Monday September 18, 2017, at 12:11 a.m., East Precinct officers responded to the 13600 block of East Burnside Street on the report of two people struck by gunfire.

Officers arrived and located an adult male and female suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers applied a tourniquet to one of the victims as emergency medical personnel responded to the scene. Both the victims were transported to area hospitals by ambulance. The adult male victim sustained minor injuries and the adult female victim sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

During the investigation officers located multiple bullet strikes to the victims' vehicle. Officers also learned the shooting occurred in the area of Northeast 148th Avenue and Northeast Halsey Street.

Based on information learned in the investigation, officers believe the two victims were driving their vehicle in the area of Northeast of 148th Avenue and Northeast Halsey Street when they were shot. After the shooting the victims drove to East Burnside Street and 136th Avenue and called police.

When officers arrived at Northeast 148th Avenue and Northeast Halsey Street they located evidence of gunfire.

There is not believed to be a danger to the public regarding this shooting.

At this time there is no suspect description to provide.

Based on information gathered during the preliminary investigation, the Gang Violence Response Team (GVRT) has responded and is taking over the investigation.

Anyone with information about this shooting should call the Police Non-Emergency Line at 503-823-3333 or the Tactical Operations Division at 503-823-4106.

The Portland Police Bureau works closely with Enough is Enough PDX, a community-led campaign aimed at encouraging people to take a stand against gang violence in the area.

For more information about Enough is Enough PDX and how you can get involved, please visit https://www.facebook.com/EnoughIsEnoughPDX

Additional information about Enough is Enough PDX and other City efforts addressing youth violence can be found at the Office of Youth Violence Prevention, http://www.portlandonline.com/safeyouth/

Crime Stoppers of Oregon offers cash rewards of up to $1,000 for information, reported to Crime Stoppers, that leads to an arrest in any unsolved felony, and tipsters can remain anonymous.

Submit an anonymous tip:

Text 823HELP

Online at http://crimestoppersoforegon.com/submit_online_tip.php

Call 503-823-HELP (4357)

Visit http://tipsoft.com to download the TipSubmit app for the iPhone or Droid.

###PPB###

On Sunday September 17, 2017, at 3:57 a.m., North Precinct officers responded to an area hospital emergency department on the report that an adult male had arrived by private vehicle with a gunshot wound.

Officers arrived at the hospital and contacted the injured man.

Officers were able to locate the victim's vehicle in the 5000 block of Northeast Columbia Boulevard. There were multiple bullet strikes located on the vehicle. Investigators believe the victim drove his vehicle to this location and parked the vehicle after the shooting. An acquaintance of the victim transported him to the hospital.

Officers have not been able to locate where the shooting occurred at this time.

There is currently no suspect description.

The victim's injuries are believed to be serious but non-life-threatening.

This is the third shooting Sunday Morning in which a person was struck by gunfire. In one shooting a man was killed and in two others victims sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. At this time it is not believed the three shootings are related.

Based on information learned during the investigation the Gang Enforcement Team has taken over the investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Detective Brent Christensen at 503-823-2087 or Brent.Christensen@portlandoregon.gov

Information learned from social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter or YouTube should be shared with investigators as these tips may lead to the identification of a suspect or suspects.

If you see a gun crime in progress, call 9-1-1.

The Portland Police Bureau works closely with Enough is Enough PDX, a community-led campaign aimed at encouraging people to take a stand against gang violence in the area.

For more information about Enough is Enough PDX and how you can get involved, please visit https://www.facebook.com/EnoughIsEnoughPDX

Additional information about Enough is Enough PDX and other City efforts addressing youth violence can be found at the Office of Youth Violence Prevention, http://www.portlandonline.com/safeyouth/

Crime Stoppers of Oregon is offering a minimum $250 cash reward to anyone who reports a convicted felon or a juvenile in possession of a firearm and tipsters can remain anonymous. Rewards of up to $1,000 are available for other unsolved felony crimes - $2,500 for unsolved homicides.

Submit an anonymous tip:

Text CRIMES (274637) - Type 823HELP, followed by the tip.

Online at http://crimestoppersoforegon.com/submit_online_tip.php

Call 503-823-HELP (4357)

Visit http://tipsoft.com to download the TipSubmit app.

###PPB###

On Sunday September 17, 2017, at 2:59 a.m., East Precinct officers responded to Southeast 119th Avenue and Southeast Stark Street on the report of a shooting.

When officers arrived in the area of the shooting they located evidence of gunfire and contacted several people who heard the shooting. The officers canvassed the area and did not locate anyone with injuries.

As officers continued the on scene investigation, they learned a gun shot victim had arrived at an area hospital by private vehicle. An officer contacted the gun shot victim at the hospital and learned the adult male was shot while he as in the 500 block of Southeast 119th Avenue.

There is currently no suspect description to provide at this point in the investigation.

The victim's injuries are believed to be serious but non-life-threatening.

Anyone with information about this shooting should contact the Portland Police Bureau non-emergency number at 503-823-3333.

###PPB###

On Thursday September 14, 2017, at 2:48 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 supplied a note demanding 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 and located the suspect in the 7800 block of Southeast of Harrison Street. The suspect was taken into custody and transported to the Portland Police Bureau Detective Division.

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

Inquiries regarding this incident should be directed to the Portland office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

###PPB###

SALEM -- On September 18, 2017 the Marion County Fire Defense Board rescinded the burn ban declaration, effective immediately. The recent precipitation throughout the City of Salem marks the end of an extended period of hot and dry weather conditions. Atmospheric conditions within the entire City of Salem are such that open burning and recreational fires no longer pose an extreme hazard to persons and property throughout the entire City of Salem area.

Pursuant to the Salem Revised Code (SRC) 58.001 -- 58.004 and the Oregon Fire Code 307.1.1, the City of Salem Fire Code Official is rescinding the total ban on open burning and recreational fires, effective immediately.

The Salem Police Department Traffic Control Unit conducted a vehicle-pedestrian safety campaign on August 15th, 2017. The goal of these safety campaigns is to enhance safety in our community through education to both pedestrians and vehicle operators. Locations are chosen based on crash and complaint data received by the department.

The location designated for this campaign was Summer St NE at Hood St NE. This location was selected due to numerous complaints in the area of the Boys and Girls Club, where people had reported nearly being struck by vehicles not stopping at the crosswalk.

Although Oregon law states that every intersection should be considered to have a crosswalk whether marked or not, officers chose to focus on education of drivers found to be in violation at marked crosswalk locations. Drivers were contacted, educated on the law and were also provided with educational materials in English and Spanish. Officers have also conducted safety campaigns aimed at educating pedestrians on their responsibilities as well.

During the campaign, 48 drivers were contacted for pedestrian-related violations, with the majority receiving education and warnings. There were 19 citations/warnings issued for other violations and one arrest was made.

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

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

###

The Salem Police Department will be continuing with specialized patrols to target those who are Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants.

The overtime patrols shifts, funded by Oregon Impact and the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), will continue to focus on the very dangerous issue of driving while impaired.

During the month of August, three officers worked on six of these focused patrols, arresting nine persons for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, cited or arrested four persons for driving with a suspended license and issued an additional 38 citations and warnings for other violations.

As an agency during the month of August, Salem Police officers arrested 51 people for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, cited three people for Minor in Possession of Alcohol, issued 98 citations for Driving With a Suspended License, 92 citations for driving without a seatbelt, 22 for driving while using a cellular phone and issued another 1261 citations and warnings for various other offenses.

The Salem Police Department and our partners such as Oregon Impact and NHTSA are committed to keeping our community safe through traffic safety enforcement and education.

Sandy & Estacada Police Log - 09/18/2017

ESTACADA:

No new crimes reported in Estacada yesterday. Woo hoo!


SANDY:

18 2017-1590

On 09/18/2017 at 1150 hrs., police responded to a motor vehicle crash in the area of Bluff Road and Jonsrud Lane. There were no reported injuries.

18 2017-1592

On 09/18/2017 at about 1546 hrs., code enforcement ordered a tow for a vehicle parked in a hazardous position near the intersection of Industrial Way and 362nd Drive.

18 2017-1593

On 09/18/2017 at about 2107 hrs., police responded to the 18000 block of Meadow Avenue regarding a domestic disturbance. Officers arrested Sean C. Carroll (41, of Sandy) for harassment. He was lodged at Clackamas County Jail on $20,000 bail.

18 2017-1594

On 09/18/17 at 2151 hours, police responded to the 38000 block of Dubarko Road regarding an attempted burglary to a residence. Damage was visible on the garage door, and a screen had been removed from a window. A report was taken.

Sandy & Estacada Police Log - 09/14/2017-09/17/2017

SANDY:

18 2017-1563

On 09/14/2017 at about 0701 hrs., police responded to a report of a restraining order violation in the 38000 block of Park Street. Officers arrested Gregory S. Wells (61, Transient) for violation of a release agreement. He was transported to Clackamas County Jail, where he was lodged on $10,000 bail for multiple warrants.

18 2017-1568

On 09/14/2017 at about 1621 hrs., police responded to the 19000 block of Jacoby Road to assist the fire department with a bicycle vs. wall crash. A report was taken.

18 2017-1569

On 09/14/2017 at about 2101 hrs., police responded to a juvenile problem in the 3700 block of Meeker Street. No crimes had occurred, and a report was taken.

18 2017-1570

On 09/15/2017 at about 0006 hrs., police responded to the 16000 block of Bluff Road regarding violation of a no-contact release agreement. Kristian H. Skjervem (53, of Boring) was arrested for violating the no contact order and for resisting arrest. He was lodged at Clackamas County Jail on $2,500 bail.

18 2017-1572

On 09/15/2017 at 1509 hrs., police responded to a burglary reprot in the 36000 block of Pleasant Street. The reporting party advised that a suspect had broken into a storage shed, daming the structure, but not taking anything. A report was taken.

18 2017-1573

On 09/15/2017 at about 1546 hrs., police responded to a vice complaint in the 17000 block of Smith Avenue. Several juveniles were found to be involved in posessing and distributing marijuana. A report was taken and will be forwarded to appropriate parties.

18 2017-1576

On 09/15/2017 at about 2035 hrs., police arrested Ray E. Ash (34, of Sandy) on warrants for failure to appear. He was lodged at Clackamas County Jail on $10,000 bail.

18 2017-1577

On 09/15/2017 at about 2116 hrs., police responded to the Sandy High School football field to trespass a juvenile school authorities had found with a knife. During the investigation, it was discovered additional crime(s) may have occurred; the case is open.

18 2017-1578

On 09/16/2017 at about 1013 hrs., police responded to the 37000 block of Sunset Street to assist with a medical problem. A report was taken.

18 2017-1580

On 09/16/2017 at about 1917 hrs., a man from Portland called to report the theft of his property, which had been at a home in the 38600 block of Miller Street in Sandy. The theft occurred on or about 07/28/2017, but was only recently discovered. The victim named a possible suspect, who has since moved to Fairview. A report was taken.

18 2017-1583

On 09/17/2017 at about 0147 hrs., police received a report about a burglary in the 39000 block of Cassidy Court. A report is pending (CAD).

18 2017-1584

On 09/17/2017 at about 0937 hrs., police contacted Steven M. Chiappa (28, Transient) in the 36000 block of Highway 26, and arrested him on warrant for parole violation. Chiappa was lodged at Clackamas County Jail on no-bail.

18 2017-1585

On 09/17/2017 at about 1450 hrs., police received a report about theft of a vehicle from the 40000 block of Highway 26. A report was taken.

ESTACADA:

1C 2017-1562

On 09/08/2017, police were provided with lost and found property, which was stored in the property room for safe keeping.

1C 2017-1566

On 09/14/2017 at about 1354 hrs., police received a report about fraud in the 1000 block of NE Rockwell Drive. A report is pending (CAD).

1C 2017-1571

On 09/15/2017 at about 1044 hrs., police received a report about criminal mischief in the 700 block of N Broadway Street. A report was taken.

1C 2017-1575

On 09/15/2017 at about 1608 hrs., police responded to the 500 block of N Broadway Street regarding an unwanted person. A female subject was taken to a local hospital for evaluation, and a report was taken.

1C 2017-1582

On 09/16/2017 at about 2125 hrs., police responded to the 100 block of SE Ginseng Drive regarding a disturbance. It was determined no crime had occurred, and a report was taken.

1C 2017-1586

On 09/17/2017 at about 1730 hrs., police responded to the 600 block of Cemetery Road regarding a domestic disturbance. Police arrested Amanda J. Morgan (29, of Estacada) for Assault 4. She was transported to Clackamas County Jail, where she was lodged on $20,000 bail.

Sandy & Estacada Police Log - 09/13/2017

ESTACADA:

18 2017-1556

On 09/13/2017 at about 1020 hrs., police received a phone report about theft in the 1000 block of NW Ward Street. A report was taken.

18 2017-1561

On 09/13/2017 at about 1806 hrs., police responded to a reported theft in the 400 block of SW Hawthorn Road. A report was taken.

SANDY:

18 2017-1559

On 09/13/2017 at about 1500 hrs., code enforcement towed an abandoned vehicle from the 38000 block of Hood Street.

18 2017-1560

On 09/13/2017 at about 1703 hrs., a business in the 37000 block of Highway 26 reported a theft of two tires, valued at about $700. The investigation is ongoing.

On Monday, September 18, 2017 at approximately 1:18 pm Tualatin Police responded to a t-bone crash involving a Metro West ambulance into a sedan on SW Nyberg Road where it intersects with the entrance to Fred Meyer's.

Witnesses told officers that the ambulance was traveling eastbound on SW Nyberg Road with its lights and siren on. The ambulance driver, according to the witnesses, failed to stop for the red light and crashed into a 2016 Volkswagen sedan as it was pulling out of the Fred Meyer parking lot, turning left to travel westbound onto SW Nyberg Road. The sedan was occupied by the driver and three passengers. All four of the sedan's occupants were transported to OHSU with unknown injuries. The driver and passenger of the ambulance were uninjured and the ambulance was not transporting any patients at the time of the crash.

No citations have been issued at this time. The cause of the crash is still under investigation. No further information.


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/858/108025/17-2636.pdf

The Vancouver Police Department requests the public's assistance in locating an endangered runaway believed to be staying in Vancouver. Kaleb L. Guenther (age 16) has been missing since August 28th. Kaleb has autism and other disorders that can impair his reasoning and decisions. He also suffers from a seizure disorder that creates life-threatening circumstances.

Kaleb Guenther is a white male, 6'2", 160-175 lbs, with brown hair and blue eyes. Kaleb's clothing is uncertain, but he was likely wearing black Fila brand shoes with silver and blue detailing and a black Fila brand backpack with light green accents. Kaleb sometimes wears a Fedora-style hat. He may be in possession of a black "Kent Flexor" mountain-style bike with white suspension.

If you have seen Kaleb Guenther or know of his whereabouts, you are encouraged to call the Vancouver Police Department at 360-487-7446 to speak with a detective or leave voicemail.


Attached Media Files: Kaleb Guenther , 2017-09/385/108028/20170813_063850.jpg

Vancouver, Wash. -- The Vancouver Police Activities League hosts literacy events each month during the school year in elementary schools in both the Vancouver and Evergreen School Districts throughout the county. These events provide free books to kids, encourage reading, and create positive connections between kids and cops. Vancouver PAL will host the first literacy events of the new school year:

Date: Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Washington elementary (2908 S Street)

This school year, Vancouver PAL literacy events will focus on youth in the second and third grades. Each literacy event includes a safety presentation from the Vancouver Police Department, or Clark County Sheriff's Office, (depending on the location of the school), time for kids to pick out a free book, reading time with police officers, and a tour of specialty police vehicles. These literacy events are fun for both the officers and the kids. Literacy is one of the key educational programs the Vancouver Police Activities League focuses on.

Members of the media are always invited to attend any PAL events to see first-hand the positive impact that programs such as PAL can have on a community. Members of the media who want to attend a literacy event should check in at the school office to receive a visitor badge. Be prepared for great visuals and high energy!

For more information on the Vancouver Police Activities League visit www.vancouverpal.org.



###


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: 09/15/17

The prior update is to the Vancouver Police Response to the shooting on Todd Rd.

UPDATE: 09/15/17

26 year old, Vancouver resident, Joseph J Carswell was booked on one count of Assault I. Victim suffered a shotgun wound to the left arm. The injury is believed to be non-life threatening. Early reports show the incident was over money owed.



On 09/14/17 at 1503 hours Vancouver Police received a 911 call from a victim saying he had been shot near the 1900 Block of Todd Road. Upon arrival medical aid was provided to the victim and the suspect taken into custody without incident.

The victim was taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. It appears the victim and suspect knew each other. There is no danger to the community.

Detectives on scene for interviews and scene processing. No further information will be released today.

September 19, 2017 -- Deputies are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred outside North Plains.

On September 19, 2017, at 4:49 p.m., Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to the 16000 block of Northwest Dairy Creek Road outside North Plains on a reported shooting.

Deputies arrived and located an adult male outside suffering from a gunshot wound. Deputies attempted life-saving measures but he was later pronounced deceased at the scene. The suspect fled prior to deputies' arrival.

The inter-agency Washington County Major Crimes Team responded and continues to investigate. No arrests have been made, but investigators believe there is no danger to the public.

The deceased person is not being identified due to pending family notifications.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by the North Plains Police Department, Forest Grove Police Department, Hillsboro Police Department, and Oregon State Police. Forensic technicians with the Sheriff's Office responded to process the scene.

Anyone with information about this shooting is asked to call non-emergency dispatch at (503) 629-0111.


Attached Media Files: Media Release (PDF) , Photo

September 19, 2017 -- A patrol deputy has been arrested for off-duty domestic violence related crimes.

On April 3, 2017, the Washington County Sheriff's Office received a complaint regarding alleged off-duty domestic violence related misconduct by Brian Waterbury, a deputy assigned to the patrol division.

On April 5, 2017, Mr. Waterbury was placed on administrative leave and the Sheriff's Office requested the Beaverton Police Department conduct a criminal investigation.

On September 18, 2017, Mr. Waterbury was arrested by Beaverton Police and booked at the Washington County Jail on charges of Assault in the Fourth Degree, Strangulation, Menacing, and Tampering With a Witness. The investigation is ongoing.

An internal investigation has been initiated.


Attached Media Files: Media Release (PDF)

Media Release

Man Surrenders Peacefully After Tactical Team Callout

September 17, 2017 -- Deputies were called to a home where it was reported that a man was holding a woman against her will. The Washington County Tactical Negotiations Team and Crisis Negotiations Unit responded. The male suspect eventually came out of the home peacefully. He was arrested and charged with a restraining order violation.

On Sunday, September 17, 2017 at 11:31 a.m., Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies were dispatched to a home in the 8800 block of SW 175th Avenue in the Cooper Mountain area of Washington County. A caller from Yamhill County reported that a woman was being held in the home against her will.

As deputies investigated, they confirmed the reported information and also learned that the woman had a current restraining order against the man. The man had previous restraining order violations. Due to officer safety concerns, the Washington County Tactical Negotiations Team and Washington County Crisis Negotiations Unit were called to the scene.

After contact was established with the male, he surrendered peacefully.

James Minor, 35, was arrested for violating a restraining order. He will be booked at the Washington County Jail later tonight.


Attached Media Files: Media Release , John Minor prior mugshot

CORRECTION: My prior release showed an incorrect age. The correct age is 58.

Media Release

Excessive Speed Suspected in Fatal Crash Near North Plains

September 16, 2017 -- A 58-year-old man died this afternoon after a car he was driving lost control and collided with a telephone pole. Speed is suspected as a contributing factor to this crash.

On Saturday, September 16, 2017 at 4:47 p.m., Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies were dispatched to a single-vehicle crash into a utility pole at NW Dairy Creek Road and NW Oliver Hill Road, northwest of North Plains.

The initial investigation showed that the vehicle, a 2000 Volkswagen Jetta, was traveling south when it lost control and collided with a utility pole. Lifesaving efforts were attempted, but the driver, 58-year-old Richard Owens, of North Plains, died at the scene.

Members of the Washington County Crash Analysis Reconstruction Team (CART) will consult on this crash investigation. It is believed that excessive speed was a factor in this crash.

The Washington County Sheriff's Office reminds the public to always obey posted speed limits and road safety signs.

Deputies at the scene were assisted by the North Plains Police Department, the Oregon State Police, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Banks Fire and the Washington County Medical Examiner's Office.


Attached Media Files: Media Release , Crash photo 2 of 2 , Crash photo 1 of 2

Media Release

Three Arrests Made After Deputy Discovers Stolen Car

September 16, 2017 -- Two women and one man were arrested after a deputy assigned to the city of Cornelius learned that a truck parked in front of a business was stolen.

On Saturday, September 16, 2017, at 10:44 a.m., a Washington County Sheriff's Office deputy assigned to the City of Cornelius was checking the parking lot of a business in the 2200 block of Baseline Street. The deputy thought a vehicle in the lot was suspicious and went into the business to inquire.

An employee at the business told the deputy that some people had come into the business earlier, but had just walked away from the truck. About 20 minutes later, the deputy learned that the same truck was being reported as stolen from a construction site in the city of Beaverton.

Deputies did an area check and arrested three individuals seen walking away from the truck:

William Litton, age 24, of Hillsboro, was arrested and charged with Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle.

Hailey Elden, 23, of Tigard, was arrested and charged with Escape II, False Information to Police, Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine and Parole Violation.

Kaylee Hathaway, 28, of Forest Grove was arrested on a warrant for Failure to Appear in court on drug charges.

All three were lodged at the Washington County Jail.


Attached Media Files: Media Release , Kaylee Hathaway mugshot , Hailey Elden mugshot , William Litton mugshot

Media Release

Deputy Locates Man Wanted After Brutal Assault near Seattle

September 16, 2017 -- An alert Washington County deputy located a man wanted after a brutal assault in King County, Washington. Wei Wang, 50, was lodged in the Washington County Jail and will face extradition back to Washington.

On Friday, September 15, 2017, at 8:54 p.m., an alert deputy from the Washington County Sheriff's Office was driving through the parking lot of a hotel in Beaverton when she noticed a vehicle associated with a wanted man from Washington.

Detectives from the King County Sheriff's Office had alerted Washington County police agencies to be on the lookout for Wei Wang, age 50, who was wanted after a brutal assault on the morning of September 14, 2017, in Shoreline, Washington. It was believed that Mr. Wang was possibly traveling through Oregon. King County investigators obtained a nationwide felony warrant.

Mr. Wang was contacted and arrested by patrol deputies and lodged in the Washington County Jail. He faces extradition back to the state of Washington.

After the arrest, Violent Crimes Unit detectives assisted King County investigators by preparing and executing two search warrants in Washington County.

Mr. Wang is currently being held without bail on a felony warrant from the state of Washington for their crime of Assault in the First Degree.

Questions about the assault in King County should be directed to the King County Sheriff's Office.


Attached Media Files: Media Release , Wei Wang

Salem Health is investing $3M to expand the Salem Hospital emergency department to meet the needs of the growing community and create an improved experience for patients. In the eight year life of the hospital's Building A, this will be the third expansion to the ED. Demolition started in September.

Rapid population growth in the Mid-Willamette Valley means growing healthcare needs and Salem Health is working to address those needs. Salem Hospital's emergency department is already the busiest ED on the West Coast between Canada and San Diego, seeing over 300 patients per day on average, and this expansion is necessary to meet health care needs as the population grows.

"At Salem Health, our first priority is caring for our local communities," said Sarah Horn, RN, MBA, BSN, Salem Health chief nursing officer. "As we plan for the projected population growth as well as what our community needs of us today, this additional space will allow us to enhance some of our current processes and models of care. Essentially, this expansion allows us to be prepared for our communities' needs in the coming years, while increasing our levels of service and reducing wait times."

The plan for expansion includes more exam rooms and a new treatment track for patients with less complicated diagnoses. The expansion will decrease the time it takes for patients to see a provider and create a better patient experience throughout the process for all patients.

"We continually study patient flow processes in the ED as we know the satisfaction of our patients is heavily associated with the amount of time they wait to be seen by a provider," said Jill Fulkerson, RN, MBA-HCM, Salem Hospital emergency and psychiatric services director.

The new expansion is set to go live in February 2018.

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


Attached Media Files: Salem Health ED Floor Plan

NW Natural files for third consecutive rate reduction

PORTLAND, Ore. --NW Natural (NYSE:NWN) has filed for a rate reduction with the Public Utility Commission of Oregon (OPUC) for the third year in a row. If approved, customers can expect to see lower bills starting Nov. 1.

NW Natural has requested residential rates be lowered by 6.4% and commercial rates by 7.3%. The typical residential customer using an average of 50 therms a month will save about $3.43 each month. The typical commercial customer using 231 therms a month will save $15.62 every month.

"We're proud to pass cost savings on to our customers while providing the same high-quality service, reliability and safety that they expect," said David H. Anderson, NW Natural President and CEO. "Once again, our customers will be paying less for their natural gas than they did 15 years ago."

The Sept. 15 filing reflects anticipated low natural gas commodity prices for the coming year as a result of abundant natural gas supplies. The rate changes also include other year-to-year adjustments and costs approved by regulators.

The OPUC is expected to issue a final decision on this year's filing by the end of October, with new rates effective Nov. 1. Find more information in the Rates & Regulations section of nwnatural.com or call 503-226-4211 and ask for the Rates & Regulatory Department.

Don't forget about the June credit
The rate decrease follows a credit on Oregon customers' June bills. NW Natural returned $11.6 million to Oregon customers -- an average of $12 a customer. The credits resulted from efficient pipeline capacity management and effective use of the company's underground natural gas storage facility at Mist, Oregon, during 2016.

Oregon customers have received more than $105 million in bill credits from efficient pipeline and storage capacity over the last 11 years.

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.
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Give your solar eclipse glasses a second chance to serve others!

On the day of the recent solar eclipse, Fort Vancouver distributed approximately 700 eclipse glasses free of charge. Prior to that day, the Friends of Fort Vancouver sold approximately 800 glasses. Throughout the area, thousands of people purchased or received donated eclipse glasses.

"With so many eclipse glasses out in our community most likely gathering dust or adding to clutter, we wanted to recommend that members of the public consider dropping off their glasses here at your national park and we will see that they are packed up and mailed to "Astronomers Without Borders," in order to see that they are put to new use," shared Superintendent Tracy Fortmann. She added, "Education is our primary focus and it seemed to make sense to reach out to the public. Think about it, if only 50% of the glasses that were provided by way of the National Park Service and our Friends of Fort Vancouver NHS, we will be able to donate 750 glasses to serve young students in need."

The public should bring their gently used eclipse glasses to be donated to Astronomers Without Borders to the Visitor Center at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, a designated collection center. The National Park Service's Visitor Center at Fort Vancouver NHS is located at 1501 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661. You can also drop off glasses at the McLoughlin House Site in Oregon City, Oregon, which is also part of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. For addition information about our location or when to drop them off, contact our Visitor Center by calling (360) 816-6230.

Astronomers Without Borders and Explore Scientific are collecting glasses to be sent to schools in South America and Asia when eclipses cross those continents in 2019. "We are so fortunate that our national park is surrounded by Vancouver and in Oregon City by generous caring communities. I just knew that there were many who might want to participate by helping students elsewhere have the opportunity to view the eclipse as we did here. I applaud Curator Theresa Langford who has served as lead on this thoughtful initiative to serve students," noted Superintendent Fortmann.

Glasses will be sent to schools and other institutions in countries where they're needed but aren't available. The next two solar eclipses across populated areas are in 2019 - a total solar eclipse in southern South America and an annular eclipse in southeastern Asia. But a partial eclipse will be seen throughout most of South America and southern Asia so the glasses are needed by millions. If there are glasses left they will be distributed to more schools in countries with eclipses beyond 2019.

For more information on Astronomers without Borders and this recycling program, please go to: https://astronomerswithoutborders.org/awb-programs/resource-sharing-programs/eclipse-glasses-donation-program.html

For more information on Fort Vancouver National Historic Site please go to: www.nps.gov/fova

Dust off your saddle shoes and join local nonprofit Friends of Fort Vancouver at their Swing Back to the 50's fundraiser on Saturday, September 23, 2017, from 7 pm to 10 pm at the Pearson Air Museum Historic Hangar. The mission of the Friends of Fort Vancouver is to inspire, inform and connect visitors, supporters, advocates and the community to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, the only national park in the Portland/Vancouver metro area.

Music will be provided by the VanPort Jazz Band, which is widely acclaimed throughout the region for popular swing and jazz tunes. Attendees are invited to wear 1950s styles, either casual or "dressed to the nines." A no-host bar will provide refreshments. This is an opportunity to join in the fun -- on the dance floor or just to listen to the wonderful old songs!

"This is a great chance to help support the terrific educational and volunteer programs at Fort Vancouver and Pearson Air Museum, which are visited by thousands of schoolchildren every year," said Executive Director Mary Rose for Friends of Fort Vancouver. "The Historic Hangar at Pearson Air Museum provides a great venue where guests can experience history and have fun while helping to support our local community."


What: Swing Back to the 1950s, a fundraiser hosted by the Friends of Fort Vancouver

Where: The Historic Hangar at Pearson Air Museum, 1115 E Fifth Street, Vancouver, WA 98661

When: Saturday, September 23, 2017, 7 pm to 10 pm

Tickets: Admission is $30 per ticket. Ticket sales are limited and must be purchased in advance through the Friends website: friendsfortvancouver.org or in-person at the Friends Bookstore in the Visitor Center at 1501 East Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98661. Tickets will not be available for sale at the event.

US Army Corps of Engineers
Portland District

News Release

Release No. 17-036

Contact:

Michelle Helms
503-808-4517
Michelle.r.helms@usace.army.mil

For Release: Sept. 15, 2017

Corps awards trout supply contract

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Desert Springs Trout Farm of Summer Lake, Oregon, was awarded a nearly $1.3 million contract by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to supply trout to offset the impacts of dams in the Willamette Valley, the agency announced today.

Desert Springs has experience providing live fish to the state and delivering to water bodies throughout Oregon. They have worked with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife in the past and are familiar with the state's permitting process and standards for fish production.

"Desert Springs' proposal met the federal government's requirements at a cost that provides the best value to taxpayers," said Tammy Mackey, Portland District Fish Section chief. "They have worked with ODFW in recent years and we feel confident that they will provide good stock that will meet the expectations of Oregon anglers and fish managers."

The contract is for trout supply and delivery only; it does not include hatchery facilities. The Corps determined earlier this year that the Leaburg Hatchery on the McKenzie River will not be used to produce trout. While hatchery's future is still under consideration it is still in use. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is still caring for fish being grown in the facility and will release them when appropriate.

The Corps recently awarded contracts to ODFW to operate four Willamette Valley hatcheries and the Cole M. Rivers hatchery in the Rogue River Basin. Those contracts went into effect Sept. 1, and include services such as fish production and release, marking and tagging of fish, and fish health services.

Earlier this year, the Corps issued a $51,000 contract to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation to assist in producing and releasing fall Chinook in the Umatilla River.


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12TH ANNUAL OREGON FALLEN FIRE FIGHTERS MEMORIAL HONORS
169 OREGON MEN AND WOMEN

Please join the Oregon Fire Service Honor Guard and the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training as they host the 12th annual Oregon Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial on Thursday, September 21, 2017 at 1 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the Oregon Public Safety Academy, 4190 Aumsville Highway SE, Salem. We are honored to have Oregon Fire Chiefs Association President, and Fire Chief for Redmond Fire & Rescue, Tim Moor, as this year's guest speaker.

The Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial is a tribute to fire service professionals and their families who have made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting lives and property across the state.

Following the featured speaker, honor guard members will call out the names of Oregon's fallen, toll the fire bell in their honor and place two wreaths next to the memorial wall recognizing deceased career, volunteer and wildland fire fighters. The U.S. flag will be ceremonially folded and placed at the memorial wall as well. The event will end with a bagpipe tribute of "Amazing Grace," and a bugler playing the solemn notes of "Taps." If you have any questions regarding the Memorial, please contact Julie Olsen-Fink, Fire Certification Supervisor, at 503-378-2297 or by email at julie.olsen-fink@state.or.us.

DPSST's Director Eriks Gabliks said "The Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial is a tribute to fire service professionals and their families who have made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting lives and property across the state. The State memorial, which was established twelve years ago on the campus of the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem, honors 169 structural and wildland fire fighters, both career and volunteer. It also is a way to share with the families of the fallen that we will never forget."


More information on the Oregon Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial and the names of the men and women it honors can be found online at: http://www.oregon.gov/DPSST/FC/FallenFireFighterMemorial.shtml

More information on the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation can be found at
http://www.firehero.org


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/1187/107949/Photo_-_Fire_-_Memorial_Wreaths_9-20-2012.jpg

(Salem) -- The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace has awarded outreach and consumer-assistance grants to six nonprofit groups and 31 insurance agencies. The awardees will use the grants, totaling $645,135, to publicize the upcoming health insurance open enrollment period and help Oregonians enroll in coverage through HealthCare.gov and other programs. Open enrollment this year runs from Nov.1 through Dec. 15.

"Open enrollment is just six weeks this year, so having a network of skilled, trusted professionals help people sign up for coverage is more important than ever," said Jean Straight, acting director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. "The Marketplace grants support this network."

The state selected grantees after a competitive application process. Applicants were judged on multiple criteria, including their demonstrated ties to community networks, ability to reach underserved populations, and capacity to serve consumers whether they are eligible for HealthCare.gov plans or other programs, such as the Oregon Health Plan or Medicare.

The nonprofit groups -- called community partners -- receiving grants are:

Asian Health and Service Center
Cascade AIDS Project
Northeast Oregon Network (NEON)
Performance Health Technology (PH TECH)
Project Access NOW
The Rinehart Clinic

Insurance agencies -- called partner agents -- receiving grants are:

Aaron Michael Burns Insurance Services
Abel Insurance
Bancorp Insurance
Barlow Insurance LLC
Boone Insurance Associates
Bredimus Insurance Agency
Carney Insurance
Central Financial Services of Oregon
Country Financial
Exchange Insurance Services
FG Insurance
HE Cross Company
Health Insurance Place
Health Plans in Oregon
Health Plans NW
Healthwise Insurance
Healthy, Wealthy & Wise
High Desert Insurance
iCover Oregon
Insured by Gallegos
Linda Dugan Insurance
Matthew Woodbridge Insurance
Pfaff-Karren Insurance
Reinholdt & O'Harra Insurance
Revell Coy Insurance
RJS & Associates
Secure Tomorrow Insurance
The Health Insurance Store
Thippayaphorn Om Sukheenai
Tina VanPhung
Tomlin Benefit Planning


The grant award term is 12 months, with the community partners and partner agents serving consumers both during open enrollment and throughout the year.

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The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. DCBS houses the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, along with other divisions. For more information, go to dcbs.oregon.gov.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) inmate died unexpectedly Sunday 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.

TRCI staff were attending to complaints from Kenneth Allen, 23, when he became unresponsive. Security and medical staff immediately began life-saving efforts which continued until Umatilla Emergency Medical Technicians arrived and pronounced Allen deceased at 11:09 a.m.

Allen entered DOC custody on January 14, 2016, on three counts of theft and one count of possession of heroin out of Jackson County. His expected release date was December 22, 2017.

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: Kenneth Allen

Date: September 19, 2017

Contact:
Nick Hennemann, Public Affairs Specialist, Salem, 503-910-4311
Kyle Abraham, Deputy Chief Private Forests Division, Salem, 503-945-7473


The Committee for Family Forestlands will meet Monday, September 25 from 9 to 11 a.m. The meeting will be via conference call hosted in the Sun Pass Room, Building D, Oregon Department of Forestry Headquarters, 2600 State Street, Salem. The committee will:
Receive a general update from the Private Forest Division
Learn about Oregon Forest Practices Act streamside buffer and bald eagle rule changes and implementing the rules
Review its 2017 Work Plan

This is a public meeting, everyone is welcome. 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. For more information about attending the meeting please contact Susan Dominique at 503-945-7502.

The 13-member committee researches policies that affect family forests, natural resource and forestry benefits. The committee recommends actions to the Oregon Board of Forestry and State Forester based on its findings. You can find more information at: www.oregon.gov/ODF/Board/Pages/CFF.aspx.

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With flash flood watches in effect for multiple areas of Oregon, be alert for landslides.

The National Weather Service is continuing flash flood watches for fire burn areas in northwest Oregon through Wednesday morning. Flash flood watches are also in effect from Tuesday night through Wednesday afternoon for fire burn areas in southwest Oregon, including the Chetco Bar and North Umpqua Complex wildfire burn scars.

"Heavy rain can lead to landslides and debris flows, especially in wildfire burn scars," says Bill Burns, engineering geologist at the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI). "With the rain continuing, be aware of the hazard in wildfire burn areas and the areas below them."

Debris flows are rapidly moving, extremely destructive landslides. They can contain boulders and logs transported in a fast-moving soil and water slurry down steep hillsides and through narrow canyons. They can easily travel a mile or more. A debris flow moves faster than a person can run.

People, structures and roads located below steep slopes in canyons and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk. Extreme caution should be used when traveling.

According to DOGAMI, hazardous areas can include:
- Bases of steep hillsides.
- Road cuts or other areas where slopes of hills have been excavated or over-steepened.
- Places where slides or debris flows have occurred in the past.
- Canyon bottoms, stream channels, and areas of rock and soil accumulation at the outlets of canyons.

For more landslide and debris flow information: http://bit.ly/landslidehazards

PORTLAND, Ore. - The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for late Sunday afternoon through just after midnight for the Eagle Creek and Whitewater fire burn areas.

"Heavy rain can trigger landslides and debris flows in steep terrain, and the risk is higher in burn areas," says Bill Burns, engineering geologist at the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI). "Be aware of the landslide hazard, and avoid burn areas."

The watch includes Government Camp, Detroit, Santiam Pass, Corbett, Rooster Rock, Multnomah Falls, Cascade Locks, Hood River, North Bonneville, Stevenson, Carson, and Underwood.

Find a map of the watch area and latest information here: http://www.weather.gov/pqr/

Debris flows are rapidly moving, extremely destructive landslides. They can contain boulders and logs transported in a fast-moving soil and water slurry down steep hillsides and through narrow canyons. They can easily travel a mile or more. A debris flow moves faster than a person can run.

People, structures and roads located below steep slopes in canyons and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk. Extreme caution should be used when traveling.

According to DOGAMI, hazardous areas can include:
- Bases of steep hillsides.
- Road cuts or other areas where slopes of hills have been excavated or over-steepened.
- Places where slides or debris flows have occurred in the past.
- Canyon bottoms, stream channels, and areas of rock and soil accumulation at the outlets of canyons.

For more landslide and debris flow information: http://bit.ly/landslidehazards

September 19, 2017

More young people identify social norms around youth marijuana use, understand the legal consequences of use

PORTLAND, Ore. -- An Oregon Health Authority (OHA) education campaign aimed at youth and young adults raised awareness among its target audience of the risks associated with marijuana use, an independent evaluation has found.

"Stay True to You," OHA's youth marijuana use prevention campaign, was launched in July 2016 in two pilot communities--the Portland metro area (Washington, Multnomah and Clackamas counties) and Southern Oregon (Josephine and Jackson counties). RMC Research Corp., contracted by OHA to evaluate the campaign, found that after one year a statistically significant higher proportion of youth and young adults in the pilot areas correctly identified that only one in five Oregon high school juniors use marijuana.

The evaluation also showed that a significantly higher proportion of youth and young adults in the pilot areas correctly identified that possession of marijuana by persons under age 21 can result in a steep fine, community service or court-ordered drug treatment.

"We know that social norms and perceived risk of use are known predictors of substance use behavior," said Kati Moseley, OHA policy specialist at the OHA Public Health Division. "In the face of increased marijuana industry advertising, this campaign communicated those two crucial messages effectively to our audience."

The final evaluation is available on the Oregon Public Health Division website at http://healthoregon.org/marijuana under "Publications."

OHA launched the pilot campaign in the summer of 2016 in the midst of increased marijuana advertising and access to retail marijuana--recent changes that may promote underage marijuana use. Although the magnitude of marijuana advertising in Oregon is unknown, marijuana retail locations are more common than Starbucks in Oregon.

Youth and young adult attitudes--including intent to delay marijuana use until age 21--have held steady in this environment. The effects of the campaign on youth marijuana use are limited in the absence of coordinated education, support and services implemented in collaboration with counties, tribes, coordinated care organizations and schools in Oregon. Evidence shows media campaigns are most effective when started in the context of these community-wide supports for youth, parents and families.

OHA recommends adopting policies to track marijuana advertising; limit marijuana marketing and promotion; prohibit the sale of flavored products; and maintain local control to protect Oregon's youth and young adults from the potential negative health effects of marijuana use.

Background on Stay True to You campaign and evaluation

After the legalization and ongoing rollout of recreational marijuana, the Oregon Legislature passed HB 4014 and SB 1597, which provided OHA with $3.97 million to develop, pilot and evaluate a youth marijuana use prevention campaign in a rural and urban area of the state. Legislative intent guided OHA in choosing the Portland metro area and southern Oregon as the locations for the pilot campaign.

OHA developed the campaign using extensive audience research and focus groups. OHA conducted 28 focus groups in Portland, Bend, Medford and Pendleton featuring 260 youth and young adults ages 14 through 20. Participants from the African American, Asian and Pacific Islander, white, American Indian/Alaska native and Latino communities were included. DHM Research conducted groups in English and Spanish between October 2015 and March 2016.

OHA announced in July 2017 that the campaign would expand to the rest of the state.

# # #

Direct report download: http://bit.ly/2xNfwsk

Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries is partnering with SOLVE to bring cemetery cleanups into the statewide Beach & Riverside Cleanup, presented by the Oregon Lottery. Many of these cemeteries were established in the 1800s and are in need of helping hands to remove invasive weeds and woody debris, clean headstones, and assist in other tasks. Cemeteries all over the state, including Miller Cemetery in Millersburg and Brookside Cemetery in Dayton, are sprucing before Veterans Day and the onset of winter. All cleanups will take place on September 23 unless noted otherwise. To see a complete list of cemeteries and sign up visit the SOLVE website, http://www.solveoregon.org/historic-cemetery-cleanups.

State law established the seven-member Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For information about the commission, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: Kuri.Gill@oregon.gov.

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Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries is partnering with SOLVE to bring cemetery cleanups into the statewide Beach & Riverside Cleanup, presented by the Oregon Lottery. Many of these cemeteries were established in the 1800s and are in need of helping hands to remove invasive weeds and woody debris, clean headstones, and assist in other tasks. Cemeteries all over the state, Philip Foster Cemetery in Eagle Creek, Milwaukie Pioneer Cemetery, Fernwood Pioneer Cemetery in Newberg, Clackamas Cemetery, Baker Prairie Cemetery in Canby, Mt. View Cemetery in Oregon City, St. Wenceslaus Cemetery in Scappoose, and Lone Fir Cemetery in Portland, are sprucing before Veterans Day and the onset of winter. All cleanups will take place on September 23 unless noted otherwise. To see a complete list of cemeteries and sign up visit the SOLVE website, http://www.solveoregon.org/historic-cemetery-cleanups.

State law established the seven-member Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For information about the commission, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: Kuri.Gill@oregon.gov.

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Vancouver, Wash. -- In observance of national Septic Smart Week, Sept. 18-22, Clark County Public Health reminds 35,000 Clark County homes and businesses with septic systems to be sure they are effectively treating wastewater.

Good siting, design, installation and ongoing maintenance are essential for treating wastewater, protecting the property owner's investment and safeguarding the county's drinking water.

"Properly maintaining your well and septic system is crucial to preventing critical deficiencies," said Chuck Harman, Public Health program manager. "Repairing or replacing a failing septic system can cost thousands of dollars, and health impacts from surfacing sewage or exposure to toxins that leach into drinking water can be significant."

Local inspection data indicate that septic systems that have not been routinely inspected and maintained have twice the rate of major deficiencies, requiring substantial repairs or system replacement, compared with septic systems that are maintained.

Resources for septic system maintenance:
Clark County Public Health, (360) 397-8428: www.clark.wa.gov/public-health/septic/index.html.
Washington State Department of Health: www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/WastewaterManagement/SepticSystem/CaringforYourSystem.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: www.epa.gov/septic.

Vancouver, Wash. -- Clark County is seeking applicants for an opening on the Clean Water Commission.

Term for the open position begins in January 2018 and ends in December 2020.

The nine-member advisory group makes recommendations to the Board of County Councilors about services, policies and financing needed to meet federal and state requirements for water quality and improve local stormwater management.

Applicants can live anywhere in Clark County. Unincorporated residents and people with analytical skills and experience with environmental issues are encouraged to apply.

The commission meets 6:30-8:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of every other month, beginning in January. Meetings are in the sixth-floor Training Room in the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St.

Anyone interested in serving should submit a letter and résumé to Jennifer Clark, Board of County Councilors Office, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, 98666-5000. Applications can be faxed to (360) 397-6058 or sent by email to jennifer.clark@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3.

More information on the Clean Water Commission is available on the county's website, www.clark.wa.gov/public-works/clean-water-commission.

Effective Saturday, September 16, 2017, the Marion County Dog Shelter will be closed on Saturdays from noon to 1 p.m. until further notice.

For more information about the shelter, visit http://www.co.marion.or.us/CS/DogServices/ or call (503) 566-6966.

The City of Battle Ground's Stage II Water Alert, declared last month on August 4, has been lifted. While the recent rain and cooler weather has reduced the demand for water, year-round water conservation, even in the rainy Pacific Northwest, is a worthwhile and cost-saving practice.

Using less water keeps money in your household pocket. Basic water conservation techniques can save thousands of gallons of water each year.

Sewer volume is based on water consumption. The City of Battle Ground establishes an individual customer's sewer use by averaging the user's water consumption for the preceding winter months of December through March. Employing water conservation techniques, even in the winter months, can provide savings on your sewer costs.

Water resources are not an unlimited supply. The City of Battle Ground uses 8 wells to draw water from underground aquifers. Water production levels, however, are only at 80% of capacity and continue to decline. Rainfall, even in the amounts we experience, does not immediately or completely recharge aquifers.

Year-round water conservation tips are available at www.cityofbg.org/conserve-water.

GRESHAM, OR. -- Mayor Shane Bemis will launch the new Gresham Reads program, which offers free books to children at select local restaurants, at a kick-off event on September 21 from 1 p.m to 2 p.m. at Sugar Cubed Cakes, 101 N. Main Avenue.

Through Gresham Reads, five local restaurants have agreed to host a bookshelf provided by the City. Children and families visiting the restaurant may read the books during their visit and may also take a book home with them. The City and partners have provided 300 free books to launch the program.

At the launch on September 21, Mayor Bemis will be joined by his wife Alix; Darlene Frazier, 2016 Oregon Council for the Social Studies Elementary Educator of the Year; and superintendents and other representatives from Reynolds, Gresham-Barlow and Centennial school districts. The Mayor and Mrs. Bemis will read stories to 2nd-graders from Hogan Cedars Elementary School. All children in attendance will get to take a book home with them. Free cupcakes will be offered.

"Studies routinely show the critical importance of childhood literacy. Gresham has a laser focus on our children and families right now, and the Gresham Reads program will give us a new and exciting way to make age-appropriate books accessible for our youngest residents," said Mayor Bemis.

In a report to the City Council in 2016, the City's Commission on Children and Families highlighted the importance of reading as a critical component of early childhood development, as well as a method to improve academic outcomes.

"I deeply appreciate the restaurants who've agreed to partner with us and host a Gresham Reads bookshelf. As a mother, I can attest to the fact that there is no greater joy than watching a child grasp the keys to literacy and build a true passion for reading and language. In agreeing to host a Gresham Reads bookshelf, these businesses are demonstrating to our children that reading and education are high priorities in Gresham," said Alix Bemis.

"As a business owner, I am proud to be a Gresham Reads location. Not only do we get to support local kids and encourage their love of reading but this program will hopefully bring in new customers to all of the participating restaurants. I think it is a win-win for the community," said Kayla Brown, owner of Sugar Cubed Cakes.

Donations of new or gently used children's books are welcome to keep expanding the program and ensure new reading choices. Community members may drop off their donations at City Hall, 1333 NW Eastman Parkway, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

"Our hope is that this program will expand to even more Gresham businesses in the coming year," said Alix Bemis.

Gresham Reads bookshelves can be found at the following restaurants:
Sugar Cubed Cakes, 101 N. Main Avenue
Blondie's Pizza, 112 N. Main Avenue
Tortilleria Y Tienda De Leon, 16223 NE Glisan St.
Shari's Café & Pies, 881 SW Highland Dr.
Burgerville, 2975 NE Hogan Dr.

Many thanks to our community partners for their generous support that helped launch this program:
The Children's Book Bank
Friends of Multnomah County Library
Title Wave Books

GRESHAM, OR. -- Experience a new, spectacular park, featuring sweeping views, perched on top of an extinct volcano at the grand opening of Hogan Butte Nature Park, September 23, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visitors are invited to experience for themselves stunning views of Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier and the Columbia River Gorge.

"Hogan Butte Nature Park will quickly become Gresham's crown jewel. I am so proud to open this amenity for our residents to take in its sweeping views of every nearby mountain, the Columbia River Gorge and the city of Gresham," said Mayor Shane Bemis.

Just half an hour from downtown Portland and minutes off I-84, this 46-acre park feels a world away from its urban surroundings. Towering native trees shade a dense understory of sword ferns and salmonberry, while red-tailed hawks soar high above. A ?1/2 mile paved interpretive loop trail winds through the forest up to the top of Hogan Butte. Break out the binoculars at the Volcano Viewpoint, and enjoy a picnic lunch with views of the trees and city below.

Hogan Butte is part of the Boring Lava Field and the "East Buttes," a cluster stretching from southeast Portland to Damascus. Gresham is one of the few places in the United States to have extinct volcanoes within its city limits.

The City began the process for acquiring land on Hogan Butte more than 25 years ago, through a 1990 City bond measure and two later Metro bonds. Visitors can enjoy this park today thanks to considerable effort from Gresham citizens, the City, and many community partners such as Metro, the Trust for Public Lands, the U.S. Forest Service and the Buttes Conservancy, who all advocated for the conservation of Hogan Butte lands over the years. Special thanks to our funding partners Metro and Oregon State Parks, who helped build the park.

At the grand opening event, take a self-guided tour of the new park and enjoy free, family-friendly activities, including a bird demonstration by the Audubon Society, scavenger hunt with prizes, and an activity table to create a special keepsake. Due to the limited number of parking spaces, the City has closed public parking for the event. Free five-minute shuttle rides will be offered, departing from Springwater Trail High School, 1440 SE Fleming, Gresham, and taking visitors straight to the park. Shuttles depart every 15 minutes starting at 10:30 a.m. Activities will be held for the duration of the event.

More information at www.GreshamOregon.gov/Hogan-Butte-Nature-Park.

Media opportunities for the grand opening:
Mayor Shane Bemis will welcome visitors with a short speech around 11:15 a.m., and will be available for interviews immediately afterwards.
Parking on-site is not open to the public for the event. However, members of the media with heavy equipment may check in at the park at 757 SE Gabbert Road and park their vehicle. Be aware it is a steep walk from the parking lot up to the park.

The City of Hillsboro is helping our community to protect our youth by guiding students, parents, teachers, and neighbors on the best practices for keeping students safe on their way to school. Members of the media are invited to attend three upcoming school safety efforts to take video and photography, and interview participants. Please confirm your plans to attend in advance. Thank you!

Pedestrian Safety: Training the Trainers
-Tuesday, September 26, 1 - 5 pm
-Brookwood Library Event Room -- 2850 NE Brookwood Pkwy, Hillsboro
Using simulated roadways, role play, and arts & crafts, Hillsboro's Safe Routes to School Program will train instructors from the Hillsboro Parks & Recreation afterschool program BLAST.
The group of 20 to 30 trainees will include Hillsboro Library Community Engagement and Outreach team members, and other community partners.

Walking School Bus Open House and Rally
-Tuesday, September 26, 5:30 - 7:30 pm
-Brookwood Library -- 2850 NE Brookwood Pkwy, Hillsboro
Parents and students who walk to school will spread the safety message to the community in this visual display of a "Walking School Bus" formed by adults and children.
During the open house, children will review walking safety tips and help design walking school bus signs. All participants will receive safety vests, an umbrella, and safety reflectors.
Hillsboro Police Department School Resource Officers will be on hand as well.

International Walk and Bike to School Day
-Wednesday, October 4, 7:30 -- 8 am
-Eastwood Elementary School -- 2100 NE Lincoln St, Hillsboro
Hillsboro Mayor Steve Callaway will help Eastwood Elementary parents, children, and community volunteers to celebrate International Walk and Bike to School Day.
Participants will walk from all parts of the neighborhood, arrive at Eastwood, collect fun walking incentives, and enjoy a healthy morning snack before heading to class.
Walking and bicycling promote healthy habits and a cleaner environment.

On September 19, 2017 during repair of a valve actuator of the emergency bypass gate at North River Road Wet Weather Treatment Facility a malfunction caused 4000 gallons of untreated sewage to be discharged into the Willamette River. The spill started at 11:30 am and was stopped at 11:59 am.

Signs have been posted warning people to avoid contact with the water in Willamette River due to potentially high levels of bacteria. The signs will be removed once the bacteria levels return to normal.

Update 9/19/2017
Due to weather, this work has been delayed until Tuesday Sept 26th and Wednesday Sept 27th.

9/12-17
River Road S between Owens Street SE and Minto Island Road SE will be reduced to one lane and controlled by flaggers on September 20 and September 21, 8:30 a.m. -- 4:30 p.m. This will allow for hillside vegetation control in an area that is prone to landslides. Motorists should expect delays.

Bicyclists and pedestrians will not have access to this section of River Road S or the nearby bike/walk path during this time and should consider using the Peter Courtney Minto Island Bridge as an alternate route.

Geotechnical studies found that the specific types of soils in this area are susceptible to fracturing by root growth. This root-related destabilization was identified as a contributing factor to the landslides in the area. This vegetation control is an effort to reduce the likelihood of future landslides.

Work is weather dependent and could be postponed due to wet weather conditions.

Signs have been posted along Glen Creek within the City of Salem warning people to avoid contact with the water due to possible contamination which occurred outside of the city limits.

DEQ is investigating a reported contamination of Glen Creek west of Salem that may have harmed fish downstream.

The signs will be removed once water samples determine that no contamination is present.

You can now file to run for office in the City of Salem for the May 15, 2018, primary election.

City offices that are up for reelection in 2018 are:

Mayor
City Councilors for Wards 2, 4, 6, and 8
Municipal Court Judge

If you are interested in running for any of these offices, you are encouraged to set up an appointment to review important filing deadlines, paperwork, and process questions with the City Recorder. To schedule an appointment, contact the City Recorder by calling 503-588-6097 or email cityrecorder@cityofsalem.net.

For critical deadlines, links to forms and other important rules and information please visit http://bit.ly/cos2018election.

Vancouver, Wash. - Strongly rooted in our community, Vancouver's legendary Old Apple Tree turns 191 this year.

Come celebrate at the annual Old Apple Tree Festival, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7, at the Old Apple Tree Park, 112 S.E. Columbia Way, directly east of the Interstate 5 Bridge within the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.

The family-friendly, free event offers live music, tree care workshops, Vancouver Land Bridge tours, kids' hands-on arts and crafts, and food for purchase. The popular free apple pressing also returns to the event, and the public is encouraged to bring clean apples and containers to participate.

New on tap this year is a hard cider garden hosted by Slow Food Southwest Washington.

Four cideries will be pouring their hard ciders, according to Warren Neth with Slow Food Southwest Washington. Featured are Southwest Washington hard ciders from Tooley Bender, Battle Ground; English Estates, Vancouver; Jester and Judge, Stevenson; and Moulton Falls, Yacolt. "Grab a glass and do some tasting or buy an Old Apple Tree commemorative growler to fill up," Neth added. Visit www.slowfoodswwa.com for more information.

During the festival, the City of Vancouver's Urban Forestry Commission will be giving away a limited number of tree cuttings from the Old Apple Tree.

Planted in 1826 at Fort Vancouver, Vancouver's venerable Old Apple Tree is the oldest apple tree in the Northwest and considered the matriarch of Washington State's apple industry. Despite floods, winds, drought, ice and snow, the tree has survived and continues to produce some fruit.

The Old Apple Tree Festival is presented by the Urban Forestry Commission in partnership with the City of Vancouver's Urban Forestry, a Public Works Department program; Bartlett Tree Care; Slow Food Southwest Washington; and the National Park Service.

For more information about the Old Apple Tree Festival and Vancouver's efforts to enhance the community's trees and the benefits they bring to residents and businesses, please call Urban Forestry at 360-487-8308 or visit www.cityofvancouver.us/urbanforestry.

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Attached Media Files: The apple press is always popular at the Old Apple Tree Festival

Vancouver, Wash. -- School is back in session and so is the need for safe, fun things for teenagers to do after school. The Vancouver Parks and Recreation Department is helping to meet that need at its two recreation centers with its Teen Late Night and After School Open Gym programs.

The programs are designed for middle and high school students, ages 11-18. They provide free, fun activities for teens after school in a safe, supervised and drug-free environment.

The Firstenburg Community Center (700 NE 136th Ave.) is currently offering After School Open Gym on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 3 to 5 p.m. and Teen Fitness (ages 13-18) Mondays through Fridays from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

The Marshall Community Center (1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd.) is currently offering After School Open Gym, plus free access to video games and a game room with ping pong, pool and foosball tables Mondays through Fridays from 2:30 to 5 p.m.

Starting Friday, Oct. 13, both recreation centers also will host Teen Late Night activities every Friday night from 8 to 10:30 p.m., with free access to the gyms, game rooms and video games for teens.

Teens must have a valid school ID to participate.

The Teen Late Night Program is funded by donations from Nautilus, Inc. and a grant from the Parks Foundation of Clark County. Donations are still needed to keep the program going. To find out how to donate to these programs, please contact Recreation Specialist Jude Blocker at 360-487-7082 or Recreation Specialist Demetrius Brooks at 360-487-7014.

For more information about the programs Vancouver Parks and Recreation provides for teenagers, please visit www.cityofvancouver.us/teens.

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Visuals: Video (3 min) -- Coho spawning in Crystal Springs Creek http://bit.ly/salmonPDXprocl


(September 19, 2017) -- Tomorrow at 2 p.m. in City Council, City Commissioner Nick Fish will proclaim Sunday, September 24, the first annual "Salmon in Our City Day," marking substantial progress in restoring urban salmon habitat and continued investment in salmon recovery.

Also at City Council, Commissioner Fish will introduce "Salmon Sanctuaries," streams that City scientists and resource experts consider the best salmon habitat in the city. Salmon Sanctuaries are resting, feeding, and spawning areas that help the threatened fish through Portland on their journey to and from the Pacific Ocean.

"I am proud to live in a city where families and children can watch salmon swimming in their local creek," said Commissioner Nick Fish. "In the Pacific Northwest, salmon are a key indicator of a healthy watershed. Today, we celebrate Crystal Springs as a model restoration project and commit to expanding Portland's urban salmon habitat."

City Council's proclamation of September 24th as Salmon in Our City Day coincides with the fourth annual Salmon Celebration. On the banks of Crystal Springs Creek at Westmoreland Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the public is invited to join in a Native American blessing, salmon bake, and other activities to welcome the return of salmon to Portland. The celebration also is part of this season's final Sunday Parkways, which will bring thousands of people through SE Portland.

Crystal Springs Creek, which has been extensively rehabilitated by the City and community partners, will be the city's first Salmon Sanctuary. The designation comes with a $5,000 award for the Johnson Creek Watershed Council and the Crystal Springs Partnership, two community groups that are continuing restoration and stewardship activities.

The Salmon Sanctuary designation is the result of a citywide evaluation of salmon habitat by Environmental Services, Portland Parks & Recreation, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Bureau of Planning and Sustainability and Water Bureau. The inter-bureau team identified eight other streams that are primed to achieve sanctuary status as restoration projects are completed, including:

Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge -- existing prime habitat for fish and wildlife. The only obstacle for salmon is a culvert that blocks access from the Willamette River. That culvert is slated for replacement next year by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Environmental Services, and Portland Parks & Recreation.

Miller Creek in Forest Park -- the forested stream has all the characteristics of prime salmon habitat, including shade, cold water, and no invasive fish competitors. City scientists have not yet found adult salmon in the creek, but a debris blockage that was removed by the Oregon Department of Transportation earlier this year was likely inhibiting salmon passage. City scientists plan renewed monitoring this season.

Tryon Creek -- like Oaks Bottom, this area contains prime habitat and conditions for salmon. A culvert that spans the equivalent of two city blocks at the mouth of the Willamette River blocks migratory fish from entering the creek. Oregon's congressional delegation is working with the City to secure necessary funding for culvert replacement.

In addition, the City's scientists and restoration experts identified these candidates: Errol Creek and Deardorff Creek along Johnson Creek in SE Portland, the lower Columbia Slough in North Portland, and Balch Creek and Saltzman Creek in Forest Park.

The Salmon Sanctuary evaluations were conducted by the same inter-bureau team whose work last year led to Portland becoming the first certified Salmon-Safe city, a designation that means the city has met or is working to meet standards for limiting water pollution, conserving habitat and additional practices that go beyond current law. Salmon-Safe, a non-profit organization, administers those standards.

"When we invest in restoration, adjust our operations to be Salmon-Safe, and partner with others, salmon return to our city," said Kaitlin Lovell, Environmental Services' science manager. "We have a long way to go to see abundant populations, but each step builds on itself. In the age of climate change, it is even more important to create cold water sanctuaries where fish can find food, shelter and refuge in Portland's rivers."

Salmon have been documented in 125 miles of the city's 300 miles of streams, but population numbers are low. The City of Portland has been working to recover salmon and steelhead since 1998 when steelhead in Portland were first listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. In that time, no populations have gone extinct and multiple restoration projects have delivered cleaner water to the Willamette, better habitat for fish and wildlife and improved treatment of stormwater.

The Bureau of Environmental Services provides residents with programs to protect water quality and public health, including wastewater collection and treatment, sewer construction and maintenance, stormwater management, and stream and watershed restoration. For news updates, follow @BESPortland on Twitter and visit www.portlandoregon.gov/bes/news.
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NORTHWEST PORTLAND, Ore. -- Most weekdays, Sylvia Koch commutes from Fairview to Portland Community College's Cascade Campus eager to attend classes for her nursing degree. But her first stop is Cascade Hall, where she drops off her 4-year-old daughter at the Albina Head Start childcare center.

This makes Koch fortunate compared to many of her peers. Studies have shown that parents with young children are often unable to attend college because they can't find affordable daycare. According to the nonprofit organization Childcare Aware of America, in 2015, the average annual cost for an infant in center-based care was higher than a year's tuition and fees at a four-year public college in 30 states (including Oregon) and the District of Columbia.

Koch, a single mother with three older children, said that before she enrolled her youngest at the Cascade facility, she had to rely on an in-home babysitter, which was not only costly but sometimes made attending class difficult.

"It would be a lot harder for me because of the financial situation -- paying for childcare -- and having to make sure the babysitter actually showed up," she said. "Before my daughter started going to Albina Head Start, my babysitter wasn't able to make it for a couple days and I had to miss school."

More than 2 million community college students in the U.S. are raising a child, or 30 percent of all community college students. However, the Institute for Women's Policy Research reported that while the number of student parents has been growing, the number of two-year colleges offering childcare has fallen from 53 percent in 2003-04 to 46 percent in 2013.

Portland Community College is among those that have made the commitment to offer on-site childcare to many of its students -- a goal that would be realized if the college's bond measure, on the November 2017 ballot, passes. At Cascade and Southeast campuses, new childcare facilities have been created thanks to the bond measure passed by voters in 2008. While Cascade's childcare center is run by Albina Head Start & Early Head Start, Southeast's is run by YMCA of Columbia-Willamette. At PCC Sylvania, the childcare facility is operated as part of the campus' Early Education and Family Studies Program.

If passed, the college's 2017 bond measure would enable PCC to build a childcare facility at the Rock Creek Campus near Beaverton and Hillsboro, as it currently is without this service line.

PCC's existing centers serve infants through preschool-aged children. Care at Southeast and Sylvania campuses is fee-based, although grants and subsidies are available for some parents. Cascade parents must meet federal poverty guidelines, but care is free for those who qualify. Head Start's program includes educational and wrap-around services that have been shown to be especially valuable for children from low-income homes.

Koch said that both she and her daughter appreciate Cascade's center. "I like everything about it," she said. "The staff are wonderful. They teach the children a lot, and I like that it's at PCC, which is where I want to be. "

Debra Porta, information and facilities assistant at Cascade Campus, said that the Head Start program helps ensure the parent's academic success and provides stability for their children.

"The parents are feeling more secure about the care of their children, which is allowing them to focus on school and other parts of their lives," she said. "It's allowed some of our parents to be able to go from part-time to full-time."


About Portland Community College: Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 75,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. The PCC bond measure of $185 million would improve workforce training programs to better align with current and future jobs, invest in training for Health and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) programs, and upgrade safety, security, longevity and disability access. If passed, it is estimated to maintain the tax rate of 40 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value for the next 16 years.

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


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/40/108002/sylviakoch.jpg

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ore. -- Undocumented students will soon have a space to fulfill their dreams of a post-secondary education.

This fall, through the Oregon Immigrant and Refugee Funders Collaborative, Meyer Memorial Trust awarded Portland Community College Foundation a $50,000 grant to help launch the DREAM Center (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors) within the Multicultural Center at the Rock Creek Campus, 17705 N.W. Springville Road. The new center, the first of its kind at any Oregon community college or university, will provide outreach, education, advocacy and community resources, bilingual materials, and funding for urgent and emergency services for undocumented and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program (DACA) students and their families.

For five years, DACA has given nearly 800,000 young Americans called "DREAMers," who were brought to the United States as children, the legal protections they need to work and study in the United States despite the immigration status of their parents. The new center, which the students have been asking for the past few years, will be instrumental in serving greater Washington County.

But recent policy changes imposed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump that threatened DACA have accelerated the need for the DREAM Center and the services it would provide.

"The Administration's actions have triggered unprecedented challenges for our
undocumented students," said Liliana Luna, Rock Creek Campus Multicultural Center coordinator who led the effort. "At PCC, we recognize that DREAMer students face unique barriers that require additional mental, emotional and financial support. The new DREAM Center would focus on the empowerment, support and retention of DREAMers and their families."

Established in 2001, the campus' Multicultural Center is designed to provide a welcoming environment to support, retain, and empower diverse students to achieve academic excellence and become leaders who challenge and dismantle systems of oppression. In recent years, the center has grown from serving 2,500 students in 2013-14 to 7,200 in 2016-17. Each of the four PCC comprehensive campuses has a multicultural center.

For students who are undocumented, the uncertainty of President Trump's policies has been challenging. In addition to family concerns and deportation risks, uncertainty over what scholarships these students qualify for, and whether they can find work to pay for school, weighs heavily on them.

"The election instilled fear, not just for me but for my family," said one PCC student named Antonio. "It really impacted me mentally, being constantly worried if my parents are going to come home, the need to look after my younger sibling, how to pay the bills and how to fulfill my dream of going to college. When I look for scholarships, I don't look for the GPA requirement. I look for whether I have to be a citizen."

Last December, the college's Board of Directors declared PCC a "sanctuary college," to aid and protect undocumented students. In announcing the designation, President Mark Mitsui emphasized concerns about the impact of potential changes in federal immigration policy on PCC's undocumented students. To address such urgent concerns, the Rock Creek Multicultural Center worked with college leadership to develop a DREAM Center and base it on successful models and best practices from the U.S. Department of Education's "Resource Guide on Supporting Undocumented Youth in Postsecondary Settings."

"The PCC Board of Directors believes in our DREAMers," said PCC Board Chair Kali Thorne-Ladd. "Community colleges are open-access institutions whose mission is to educate and empower students to achieve their academic and career goals. DACA is an important asset that facilitates this mission, providing stability and economic opportunity."

The new PCC DREAM Center plans to serve 20 families and 20 students per academic term through the college's community resource hub. It will have legal services, assist in facilitating and processing initial DACA applications and renewal applications, provide workshops on student support and college navigation resources, and conduct academic/career advising sessions. In addition, the center will partner with local community organizations Adelante Mujeres, the Hillsboro School District, Momentum Alliance, Centro Cultural, and the Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce.

"Many of these organizations are well established within the community as sources of support and empowerment for DACA and undocumented youth," said Luna. "Partnering with these organizations on outreach and promotion will help students and their families become aware of the proposed DREAM Center services more quickly and effectively."

The PCC Foundation aids and promotes the mission of the college by providing scholarships, equipment for teaching and training, and support for faculty and special programs. In 2016-17, the Foundation awarded more than $1.5 million in scholarships to 1,550 students, most of whom have high financial need, are first-generation college students and students from communities of color.

The Oregon Immigrant and Refugee Funders Collaborative, a partnership between The Collins Foundation, MRG Foundation, Oregon Community Foundation and Meyer Memorial Trust, aims to highlight the importance of refugees and immigrants to Oregon and the joint commitment to address the need for their successful integration into the local community. The Meyer Memorial Trust is a private foundation that works with and invests in organizations, communities, ideas and efforts that contribute to a flourishing and equitable Oregon.


About Portland Community College: Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 75,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. The PCC bond measure of $185 million would improve workforce training programs to better align with current and future jobs, invest in training for Health and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) programs, and upgrade safety, security, longevity and disability access. If passed, it is estimated to maintain the tax rate of 40 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value for the next 16 years.

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


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/40/107927/LilianaLuna1.jpg

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on September 19, 2017, in the Board Room at 11611 NE Ainsworth Circle, Portland, OR 97220 in the Board room.

The Policy Conveys to Students, Staff and the Community the Salem-Keizer School Board's Ongoing Commitment to Provide a Safe and Welcoming Environment for Students

SALEM, Oregon, September 18, 2017--The Salem-Keizer School Board unanimously reapproved its Safe and Welcoming Schools resolution last Tuesday. The intent of the policy is to convey to students, staff and the community the board's ongoing commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for our students.

"By readopting our Safe and Welcoming Schools resolution, the school board wants to send a clear message to those in our community who feel under stress and are worried," said Superintendent Christy Perry. "We will not accept any kind of discrimination, harassment or bullying in our schools. We are working hard to foster a culture that is safe and welcoming, and that understands and celebrates the unique assets of every student."

The school board originally adopted the Safe and Welcoming Schools resolution in January. The resolution will be reapproved annually.

Along with the Safe and Welcoming Schools resolution, the district also recently opened the Office of Student Equity, Access and Advancement. It was created to support underrepresented students who are currently not successful in school.

You can read the district's Safe and Welcoming Schools initiatives here: http://www.salemkeizer.org/parents/safe-welcoming-schools

Salem-Keizer School District 24J is the second-largest school district in the state of Oregon, with nearly 5,000 employees serving more than 42,000 students in 65 schools in the cities of Salem and Keizer.


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School Board Unanimously Adopts 2017-18 Supplemental Budget
Nearly 25 Staff to be Hired, Including Counselors, English Language Development Teachers and a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Specialist

SALEM, Oregon, September 15, 2017--The Salem-Keizer School Board on Tuesday unanimously approved a $10.5 million supplemental budget. It will be used to hire more teachers and to help defray the cost of architectural and design work for construction projects.

"While we're grateful that the legislature was able to provide us with more funding, we are still in a deficit biennium," said Chief Operations Officer Mike Wolfe with the district's Business and Support Services department. "We will be looking for ways to continue to cut costs."

The district's 2017-18 budget of about $468 million dollars was previously based on an anticipated $8.1 billion in state school funding. It was approved by the school board in June. The legislature later approved $8.2 billion in school funding, accounting for the $10.5 million voted on by the school board this week.

The district plans to hire three full-time drug and alcohol counselors, five full-time English Language Development teachers, and a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math teacher with the funding. To view the full supplemental budget, click here: https://www.salkeiz.k12.or.us/sites/default/files/sb-september-17.pdf

In addition, the district plans to use a portion of the money to begin planning for a 2018 bond referendum. Costs include architectural and engineering design work for proposed additions to address overcrowding at McNary High School and North Salem High School, as well as planning for a new elementary school to replace Auburn Elementary. The last bond was passed in 2008. Since then, the district has grown by nearly 2,000 students.

Salem-Keizer School District 24J is the second-largest school district in the state of Oregon, with nearly 5,000 employees serving more than 42,000 students in 65 schools in the cities of Salem and Keizer.

The Oregon Department of Education today released the 2016-17 state assessment results. For the first time in more than a decade, Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) eighth-graders tested above the state average in both language arts and math. That growth translated into high school performance, where SKPS students achieved three percentage points higher than the state average in both English Language Arts and Math.

"We're making a shift in how we approach our curriculum in elementary years, and as a result, we're seeing great improvements in learning and understanding for our students in the middle years and beyond," said Superintendent Christy Perry. "Many of our students don't speak English as a first language, so that first major test in English can be intimidating and difficult."

As part of the district's strategic plan, SKPS has committed to improving and supporting student performance. Elementary schools have aligned curriculum and systems in addition to the implementation of ReadyGEN, an integrated and balanced approach to reading and writing instruction. To help facilitate English language proficiency, SKPS has begun utilizing bilingual units aligned with English literacy. In middle schools, school staff and leaders are focusing intently on student learning needs. Much of this work is done in collaborative teams using student work and data to drive instruction in addition to timely interventions and extensions for students.

The 2016-17 school year is the third year the test has been administered aligned to the Smarter Balanced standards. By looking at how cohorts perform on the test, parents and educators can measure the growth of the same groups of students from year to year. For instance:
Fourth-graders realized a growth of one percentage point in achievement from the previous year in English Language Arts
Fifth-graders achieved a growth of five percentage points in achievement from the 2014-15 school year in English Language Arts
Both seventh- and eighth-graders achieved a growth of three percentage points in English Language Arts

Most notably, seventh-graders' achievement in math grew by eight percentage points from the previous year. This growth may be attributed to a 60 percent increase in students taking seventh-grade accelerated math across the district.

"We are committed to seeing our students grow," said Assistant Superintendent Kelly Carlisle. "A key to that growth is offering access to rigor. We're seeing that now as a result of our accelerated math classes. While we know these tests aren't the total assessment of a child's abilities, it helps us as educators to be more effective."

While tests were also administered in science, those tests don't count toward students' ability to graduate. Currently, sixth- and seventh-grade students only receive a half-year of science due to limited facilities. The 2018 proposed bond referendum includes upgrades to middle school facilities in order to offer full-year courses.

Across the state, test results showed drops in almost every tested grade with the exception of high school.

Notable points
Early College High -- 29 percentage point growth in math and 28 percentage point grown in English Language Arts from previous year
McKay High -- eight percentage point growth in English Language Arts/Reading from previous year
West Salem High -- 19 percentage point growth in math from previous year
Walker Middle -- eight percentage point growth in eighth-grade math cohort
Whiteaker Middle -- eighth-graders performed 10 percentage points better than the state average in English Language Arts
Waldo Middle -- 11 percentage point growth in eighth-grade English Language Arts cohort
Swegle Elementary -- fifth-graders had a 15 percentage point gain in English Language Arts cohort
Schirle Elementary -- fifth-graders performed 18 percentage points higher than the state average in math
Kennedy Elementary -- fifth-graders had a 19 percentage point gain in English Language Arts

For complete results to go: http://www.osba.org/News-Center/Announcements/2017-09-14_SmarterBalancedTestScores.aspx

SKPS is the second-largest school district in the state of Oregon, with more than 5,000 employees serving 42,000 students in 65 schools in the cities of Salem and Keizer. SKPS also serves the most impoverished population in the state, with 61% of students considered living in poverty. Eighteen percent of SKPS students speak a language other than English as a first language.


Attached Media Files: 2017-09/146/107934/State_Results_Demonstrate_Growth_Particularly_in_Middle_Schools.pdf

Battle Ground Public Schools' 2017-18 enrollment numbers are in, and they confirm what those who have visited our schools in recent years already know: some buildings are pushing the limits of their intended capacity.

Overall, Battle Ground has 13,070 students enrolled, an increase of 164 students compared to a year ago, and 322 more students compared to 2012. The four primary and middle schools in the southern portion of the district have experienced the most dramatic growth, even though Battle Ground's school board revoked boundary exceptions at Glenwood and Laurin beginning last year and at the Pleasant Valley campus this year. Significant construction of new homes and apartments have contributed increased enrollment in the southern portion of the district, and more is expected. Over the past three years:

- Glenwood Heights Primary has 160 new students, a 25.2 percent increase
- Laurin Middle School has 95 new students, a 16.1 percent increase
- Pleasant Valley Middle has 56 new students, an 11.4 percent increase

Glenwood Heights Primary was built in 1956 to accommodate 484 students. This year, there are 795 students enrolled at the school. Space at Glenwood Heights' campus neighbor, Laurin Middle School, is similarly stretched thin. Built in 1965 for 600 students, LMS has 684 students enrolled this year.

In addition to revoking boundary exceptions to help address the growth at Glenwood and Laurin, the district added eight portable classrooms to the campus over the summer. Now, more than 40 percent of Glenwood and Laurin's classrooms are portables. Adding additional portables to the current campus is not possible going forward because the schools' core facilities, including lunchrooms, parking lots, libraries, and playgrounds cannot support additional classrooms.

With this in mind, the district has implemented other changes to maximize available space, including:

- Art teachers and other specialists no longer have their own classrooms. Instead, art
teachers are using carts to bring supplies to students' home classrooms.
- Reading and math intervention specialists do their work in students' home classrooms, not
a separate space.
- Glenwood's fourth graders eat lunch in the adjacent Laurin Middle School cafeteria because
of space constraints.

Some class sizes at these schools are approaching "overload" status, which is a contractually-defined student-to-teacher ratio that when exceeded, requires either hiring additional staff to provide aide time, or teachers must be paid additional salary.

At the Pleasant Valley campus, where the district installed a portable building containing 10 classrooms just one year ago, students had to give up two classrooms this fall that were being used as a cafeteria. Now, students at Pleasant Valley eat lunch in their classrooms. Enrollment also grew at Prairie High School this year, up 59 students over last fall

As the entire region continues to experience housing and population growth, the BGPS Board of Directors has other options for managing increasingly limited classroom and facility space, including presenting voters with a bond and redrawing boundary lines.


Attached Media Files: Students at Glenwood Heights Primary work in a computer lab , Superintendent Mark Ross and Principal Ken Evans inspect a campus map of Glenwood Heights Primary School , 2017-09/20/107944/Capacity_Chart.jpg

In the midst of what many are calling a national crisis, Vancouver-based Prevent Coalition was awarded a $100,000 Opioid Prevention Grant from the Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery (DBHR). The one-year grant will provide funding for opioid prevention in Clark, Skamania and Klickitat counties.

With support from this grant, Prevent Coalition will focus on two main strategies of prevention. The first is to expand their already successful Drug Take Back events, which have collected over 15,600 pounds of unused and unwanted pills in the last seven years. The coalition will be building capacity to hold biannual Drug Take Backs in Clark, Skamania, and Klickitat counties. The second is to create a comprehensive social marketing campaign to increase awareness of the dangers of opioid and prescription drug misuse and abuse and motivate the community to secure and dispose of their prescription medications safely.

"Every day, more than 90 Americans die after overdosing on opioids," said Joy Lyons, Prevention Intervention Coordinator for Prevent Coalition. "We are excited to work collaboratively with coalitions in the tri-county region and use this grant to work toward lowering that number."

In support of their grant application, Prevent Coalition received letters from the following coalitions: Connect Evergreen, West Van for Youth, One Prevention Alliance, Our Klickitat, STASHA, Prevent Together, and Unite! Washougal.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that the total economic burden of prescription opioid misuse alone in the United States is $78.5 billion a year, including the costs of healthcare, lost productivity, addiction treatment, and criminal justice involvement.


About Prevent Coalition
Founded in 2006, Prevent Coalition is a group of diverse community members working together using an evidence-based framework to prevent youth substance abuse in Clark County, WA. Working in collaboration with parents, youth, schools, media, business, government, faith communities, law enforcement, youth-serving organizations, civic groups, health care professionals, and prevention organizations, Prevent Coalition is focused on improving the environment surrounding youth to create a community culture that promotes prevention and honors healthy living. Find toolkits, resources, and information about addiction, prevention, and resilience for adults and youth at PreventCoalition.org.

You are invited to attend a community tour hosted by Evergreen Public Schools. Tours also include a visit to Cascadia Tech Academy located at 12200 NE 28th St.

The district will offer interpreters on selected tours for Russian and Spanish speaking community members. Transportation and lunch are free of charge.

Thursday, October 12, 2017 - Honored Citizen Tour -- Henrietta Lacks Health and Bioscience High School (HeLa) --Tour will begin at 8:00 a.m. at Cascadia Tech Academy followed by a tour of Hela High School and return to Cascadia for a tour followed by lunch from 12:00-1:00 p.m. Contact Shelley Bowers at 360-604-4088. Please register by October 13.

Wednesday, November 8, 2017 - (Russian - interpreters) Tour will begin at 9:00 a.m. at host school - Evergreen High School (EHS). Welcome followed by tour of EHS and Cascade Middle School. Group will be bused to Cascadia Tech for a tour followed by lunch - 12:00-1:00 p.m. The group will then board the bus and return to host school. Contact Yelena Kobylnik at 360-604-4028. Please register by October 30.

Thursday, March 8, 2018 - (Spanish - interpreters) Tour will begin at 9:00 a.m. at host school - Wy'east Middle School. Welcome followed by tour of Wy'east and Marrion Elementary School. Group will be bused to Cascadia Tech for a tour followed by lunch - 12:00-1:00 p.m. The group will then board the bus and return to host school. Contact Adriana Garcia at 360-604-4029. Please register by March 1.

Thursday, May 24, 2018 - (General Tour) Tour will begin at 8:00 a.m. at Cascadia Tech Academy followed by tour of Frontier Middle School, York Elementary School, Heritage High School and Cascadia Tech. Contact Shelley Bowers at 360-604-4088. Please register by May 17.


You may register on-line at www.evergreenps.org or contact Community Relations at 360-604-4088.

Monday, September 18, 2017 -- Ridgefield, Washington -- South Ridge Elementary School in the Ridgefield School District has been selected for the 2017-18 National Title I, Part A Distinguished School Award. The school district learned of the news last week from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

South Ridge earned the national designation for placing high on the list of U.S. schools for demonstrating a wide array of strengths, including team approaches to teaching and learning, focused professional development opportunities for staff, individualized and multi-tiered systems of approach for student success, and strong partnerships between the school, parents, and the community.

In addition, it earned recognition in the state of Washington as a Distinguished School for its Title I, Part A program for its exceptional student performance in English Language Arts in Smarter Balanced Assessments based on student growth percentiles (SGP) and state average scores for two or more years.

According to OSPI's Washington State Report Card, the percentage of third-grade students at South Ridge meeting standard in Smarter Balanced testing in English Language Arts exceeded the state average in 2014-15, 2015-16 and 2016-17 by 22 percentage points or more.

"The South Ridge staff works extremely hard to support all students," said Todd Graves, South Ridge Elementary School principal. "As we pursue our goal of becoming the state's premier district, I would like to thank the entire roadrunner community for a job well done! Go Roadrunners!"

"The award reflects South Ridge's unwavering commitment to do whatever it takes to help its students excel," said Tiffany Gould, Ridgefield School District's Federal Programs Director. "South Ridge maintained exceptional student performance even through the recent rapid enrollment growth it has experienced."

Gould also attributed the school's success to the strong partnerships that teachers and staff have with parents and the community.

Since 1996, The National Title I, Part A Association has been selecting examples of superior Title I, Part A schools from each state for recognition through the National Title I, Part A Distinguished School Program. In addition, each state recognizes individual Title I, Part A programs based on a combination of student academic success and creative and innovative programs that contribute to their success.

Said Superintendent Nathan McCann, "I am proud of the hard work and dedication demonstrated by the South Ridge staff and students and am pleased that they are being recognized for their efforts in earning this exceptional national designation for their school."

The school will receive a $10,000 award for the national recognition and $5,000 for its statewide recognition. A team representing the school and school district will be recognized at the 2018 National Title I Conference in Philadelphia in February.
###


Attached Media Files: Superintendent Nathan McCann , Tiffany Gould , Todd Graves

On Friday, September 22nd, roughly 750 high school juniors from at least 11 schools in SW Washington will take part in the 7th annual Apprenticeship and Trades Fair at the Cowlitz County Expo Center. The Expo Center will be filled with Bobcats, backhoes and other heavy machinery and professional equipment so students not only get to learn about job opportunities, but they also get to try them on for size.

Nearly 20 organizations representing emergency response, government agencies, unions, and the trades will be present, all with the goal of planting a seed of interest in potential future employees.

"This event is a team effort between Career and Technical Education instructors and local area industry professionals. Together, we've created a space for students to get hands-on exposure to career opportunities that lead to living-wage jobs," said Melissa Boudreau, CTE Director for Kelso High School.

In addition to staff at Kelso High School, the Washington and Northern Idaho District Council of Laborers is a key partner in organizing industry attendees. Millennium Bulk donates funds each year, and JHKelly previously donated the safety equipment for the event, which includes 1,000 hard hats, vests and safety glasses.

Activity stations for the day include:
An industrial water pipe for learning to repair water lines, shut offs and clean out
A virtual reality heavy equipment operator simulation station by Operating Engineers Union
Live welding stations
Build a shed from start to finish with Laborers Union and Building in Youth
Check out a military grade Humvee
Try the equipment inside an emergency response vehicle
And so much more...

"So many of our students don't realize the amazing opportunities that are out there for them," said Paul Huddleston, CTE Director at Woodland High School. "This event gives them a chance to get a hands-on look at so many different career paths all in one place on one day. The response from our kids last year was extremely positive, and I believe every student should attend this event--regardless of their chosen pathway."

The Appreticeship and Trades Fair happens on Friday, September 22nd, at the Cowlitz County Expo Center (1900 7th Ave, Longview, WA) in two sessions: one from 9:00 am to 11:00 am, and the other from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm.

Industry Attendees:
City of Longview Water Department
City of Kelso Water Department
Beacon Hill Water District
Lakeside Industries
Laborer's Local 335
Northwest Carpenters
IBEW 48
Kelso School District Carpentry/Diesel Mechanic
Cowlitz County Public Works & Roads Department
Kelso Police Department
Cowlitz Fire 2
Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 26
Washington State Department of Apprenticeships
Building in Youth
Washington State Department of Transportation
Lower Columbia Contractors
NW Lineman JATC
Lower Columbia College Welding
Operating Engineers

High Schools Attending:
Kelso
Toutle Lake
Washougal
Ocean Beach
LaCenter
Kalama
Naselle
Woodland
RA Long
Mark Morris
Castle Rock


Attached Media Files: Students welding at last year's Apprenticeship and Trades Fair , Students working on a water pipe at last year's Apprenticeship and Trades Fair , Students working with brick at last year's Apprenticeship and Trades Fair

The Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) classes of 2020, 2021, and 2023 are looking for community members to become AVID tutors. These tutors are vital for helping students to gain the valuable skills to be college and career ready.

The AVID program uses research-based curriculum and strategies that develop critical thinking, literacy, and math skills across all content areas. Students who have gone through AVID classes are more likely to attend, and stay enrolled in, college.

AVID Tutors conduct tutorial sessions in all academic areas, foster the AVID questioning process, and evaluate student binders and class notes. Tutors also set an example of personal excellence and high expectations for AVID students to follow.

Volunteer opportunities are on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Kelso High and Huntington Middle School. Trainings are available at Kelso High School.

Those interested in this chance to make a difference for Kelso students, can email Keila Messex at kmessex@cowlitzamericorps.org or Jennifer Hamilton at jennifer.hamilton@kelsosd.org for more information.

Monday, September 18, 2017-Woodland, WA-Woodland Middle School hosted the season's first soccer jamboree for the first-ever middle school girls soccer league in Clark and Cowlitz counties on Tuesday, September 12, 2017 with teams from Castle Rock School District, King's Way Christian Schools, Ridgefield School District, and Woodland Public Schools. The league features a total of five teams with Ridgefield School District hosting two teams and one each from the other schools.

The idea for creating a middle school girls soccer league came together as a joint effort when the local athletic directors discussed the need to get more girls interested in school athletics at one of their regular meetings earlier this year. "At first, we didn't know if we would have much interest in girls soccer at the middle school level," explained Angela Campbell, Assistant Principal and Athletic Director for Woodland Middle School. "The response was amazing -- almost immediately, we had more than 30 girls sign up in Woodland alone!"

In Ridgefield, girls' interest in soccer was so overwhelming, the middle school created two teams to accommodate all the student athletes who signed up. "Soccer is an incredibly popular sport in Ridgefield, and an interest survey conducted earlier this year indicated that our girls had a desire to participate in the sport for their school because they already played outside the area," explained Debbie Bentler, Athletic Director for Ridgefield School District. "When Woodland also expressed an interested in adding a team, it made sense for the athletic directors to join forces and create our own middle school league for Clark and Cowlitz counties."

Starting a school athletics team from scratch presents a number of logistical challenges including having the appropriate facilities and equipment. Woodland's success in starting a team in just a few months stemmed from collaborative teamwork throughout the district. "Our high school program has been incredibly helpful by lending us equipment and uniforms to get going, and our district maintenance team has been amazing getting the field ready by painting lines and performing grounds maintenance," said Campbell. "Right now, we're fundraising for new goal posts and all kinds of equipment including balls, uniforms, and much, much more."

Jeff Flanagan, an avid athlete himself and a teacher at Woodland Middle School since 1998, jumped at the chance to coach his school's team after promoting the idea for a middle school team for years. "I asked our school to consider adding a girls team four years ago when I was head coach of the high school team in order to increase interest in girls soccer at a younger age," he explained. "At the time, there were too many obstacles to put a league together, but the timing was perfect to start one up this year." For Flanagan, his adoration for coaching comes from his love of teaching and the game of soccer, itself. "I love the game and I really enjoy being with our amazing athletes," he said. "Watching students progress and develop both as players and as individuals is truly fulfilling both as a coach and as a teacher."

Student interest in a girls soccer league is nothing new to Woodland Middle School. Some students even pushed for a team by reaching out to the school's administrators. "I started playing soccer in kindergarten and I thought a team at the middle school would be a great addition to the school," explained BrookLynn Donald, a seventh grader. "Last year, I wrote a letter to the principal and assistant principal to let them know that sports are important for girls because they offer a different avenue of participation than traditional girls activities."

Woodland's student athletes couldn't be happier about the new league. "We've been asking to have a soccer league for a long time, so now that it's actually happening, we're really pumped and excited," said Jaylee Graham, a seventh grader. "I've always loved soccer since I started playing when I was six; I like how soccer is both a fast-moving and a mental game."

Bella Mattison, an eighth grader and team captain, agreed with Graham. "Soccer is really fast, really fun and a lot more physical than other sports," she explained. "As both team captain and the ASB president, I like how sports teach leadership and the importance of working together."

Middle School Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Angela Campbell also touts the proven importance of school athletics and extracurricular activities in students' academic careers. "Athletics and other extracurricular activities are instrumental in instilling self-confidence in our students and also teaching them valuable leadership skills," she explained. "In addition, afterschool activities motivate students to perform well in school since students have to maintain a certain grade point average (GPA) and submit weekly grade checks to ensure they're qualified to participate."

Woodland Middle School plans to add a second team next year to accommodate the ever-increasing level of interest. "With more than 30 girls this year, we could have had two small teams, but we decided to go with one big team in order to gauge interest and test the waters," said Campbell. "We're definitely hoping to have two teams next year."

Woodland community members interested in supporting the middle school girls soccer team can give donations at the Woodland Middle School main office located at 725 Park Street, Woodland, WA 98674 and get more information by calling (360) 841-2850.

###


Attached Media Files: Student athletes rave about their love of soccer's mental requirements combined with its physicality and fast-paced play. , Student athletes rave about their love of soccer's mental requirements combined with its physicality and fast-paced play. , Student athletes rave about their love of soccer's mental requirements combined with its physicality and fast-paced play. , Students at Woodland Middle School have demonstrated an interest in a girls soccer team for years. , Students at Woodland Middle School have demonstrated an interest in a girls soccer team for years. , Jeff Flanagan, technology teacher for the middle school and an avid athlete, lept at the chance to coach the girls' soccer team. , Starting a school's athletic team from scratch presents a number of obstacles including equipment, uniforms, and proper facilities. , On September 12, Woodland Middle School hosted a jamboree for the first-ever middle school soccer league in Clark and Cowlitz counties. , On September 12, Woodland Middle School hosted a jamboree for the first-ever middle school soccer league in Clark and Cowlitz counties.

Summary: Awards are an opportunity to educate the public on hazard identification--and have a little fun.
-----
With award season heating up, many are focusing on the tremendous achievements in television this year. But, while the acting, writing, and directing all set the gold standard, there's one thing SAIF employees can't help but notice.

"At SAIF we love safety and risk management--in fact, we see hazards everywhere we go," said Ben McCormack, senior safety management consultant at SAIF. "Even when we're watching our favorite TV shows, we can't help but notice a few areas for improvement."

With that in mind, SAIF is kicking off the first annual Safetys, an award to honor the safest fictional workplaces while providing some areas of improvement for the worst offenders.

"We hope the Safetys help educate the public on what a safe workplace looks like," said McCormack. "And, for those who don't see every television program as an educational opportunity for risk management, SAIF is here to help."

Anyone interested in hazard identification can take a new online training from SAIF, available at saif.com/hazards.

Introducing the first annual Safetys
SAIF's safety management consultants reviewed this year's Emmy-nominated programs for their safety aspects, using a rigorous system of binge-watching, evaluating, and scoring. We then plugged those into a bracket.

So who is taking home the Safetys' patented safety cone award this year?

For dramas, NBC's This is Us is the winner. While it only scored a B, we appreciate its focus on workplace stress. Our critic thinks, however, that Kate and Kevin should establish a more predictable work schedule, which may reduce stress, fatigue, and the seemingly endless emotional distress.

In the comedy category, Black-ish wins--we appreciate anyone who's willing to stand up for safety, so we cheered at the TV when Junior raised a red flag at Pizza Possum. The adults, however, could use a refresher on how distractions can impact their work--the employees at Stevens and Lido show exactly how life, and world affairs, can distract us on the job. Between that and the extra work Bow puts in as an intern at her hospital (on top of her day job), the show falls short of an A this year.

Reviews and grades on the other 13 top dramas and comedies can be found at saif.com/safetys.

About SAIF
SAIF is Oregon's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurance company. For more than 100 years, we've been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.


Attached Media Files: Safetys: Drama , Safetys: Comedy

Red Cross responders from Oregon and Southwest Washington have deployed to the Southeast following two unprecedented hurricanes with another storm on the horizon.

PORTLAND, Ore., September 18, 2017 -- Disaster responders from the American Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (Cascades Region) are on the ground in Texas and Florida helping communities devastated by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma with shelter, food, water, cleanup supplies and recovery assistance.

Responders from Saint Helens, Grants Pass, Williams, Portland, Bend, Eugene, Keizer, Junction City, Dallas, Salem, Florence, Tigard, Medford, Vernonia, Springfield, Monmouth and Camas, Washington, are assisting affected communities by working in disaster relief shelters, delivering food and water to affected neighborhoods, providing emergency financial assistance, helping with family reunification, and delivering health and mental health services to people in need.

Southwest Oregon Chapter Executive Director, Carisa Hettich traveled from her home in Eugene to Houston where she started out helping at a 2,000 person relief shelter and is now traveling in an Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) to deliver food, water and cleanup supplies in communities that need help.

"There is extreme devastation here. People's possessions are piled on the side of the road, destroyed by floodwaters," said Hettich. "They have nothing and are grateful for all we are doing to help. I can't erase the damage but I can give people a warm meal, water and a hug to let them know it's going to be ok."

Red Cross volunteer responder, Judy Kimmons drove from her home in Medford across the country in an ERV to help people affected by Hurricane Irma in Florida.

"Thousands of people are without power, billboards are ripped down and strewn across the highway and boats have been thrown from the water and onto the shore," Kimmons said. "We've been focused on getting food to people without electricity and are bracing for other storms on the horizon."

The American Red Cross has launched a wide-ranging relief effort to provide safe shelter, food and comfort to people affected by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. The Red Cross is part of a large team of agencies and organizations responding to provide help to those in need.

HURRICANES HARVEY AND IRMA
In the last three weeks, the Red Cross and community partners have provided more than 934,000 overnight stays in emergency shelters due to hurricanes. Shelters were opened in eight states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The Red Cross has served more than 3 million meals and snacks to people in need.
More than 6,400 Red Cross disaster workers and almost 300 emergency response vehicles are on the ground right now, helping thousands of people affected by these storms.
More than 73 million hurricane and flood alerts have been issued through Red Cross mobile apps for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

HURRICANE HARVEY
Overnight, more than 4,600 people stayed in 25 Red Cross and partner shelters across Texas and Louisiana. To date, there have been nearly 394,000 overnight shelter stays provided for Hurricane Harvey.
Along with our partners, we have served more than 2.3 million meals and snacks in Texas and Louisiana.
More than 3,500 Red Cross disaster workers are on the ground in Texas and Louisiana, with almost 280 more on the way.
More than 170 emergency response vehicles have been activated to help deliver meals and relief supplies across the hardest hit areas of Texas and Louisiana.
Mental health and health services professionals have provided nearly 76,000 contacts to provide support and care to people in Texas and Louisiana.
We've distributed nearly 655,000 relief items, such as diapers, bug spray, cleaning supplies, coolers, and comfort kits containing deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste and other hygiene items, in Texas and Louisiana.
The Red Cross has already distributed $45 million in financial assistance to more than 100,000 qualified households who needed immediate help. This assistance has helped more than 365,000 people including more than 10,000 households headed by military veterans.

HURRICANE IRMA
Overnight, almost 3,600 people were provided refuge in 55 government and Red Cross shelters across Florida, Georgia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This includes:
In Florida, more than 3,200 people in 47 evacuation shelters.
In Georgia, 24 people in one shelter.
On the U.S. Virgin Islands, 162 people in four evacuation shelters.
In Puerto Rico, more than 182 people in three evacuation shelters.
To date, evacuation centers have provided more than half a million (541,000) overnight stays to people needing a safe place to go.
Along with our partners, we have served more than 747,000 meals and snacks across six states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
We've distributed more than 88,000 relief items, such as diapers, bug spray, cleaning supplies, coolers, and comfort kits containing deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste and other hygiene items across six states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Mental health and health services professionals have provided more than 16,000 contacts to provide support and care to those affected across six states and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Nearly 3,000 Red Cross workers are responding to Irma now, with more than 300 more volunteers on the way.
More than 120 emergency response vehicles have been activated to help.

HOW TO HELP:
The Red Cross has launched massive responses to these devastating storms and needs financial donations to be able to provide immediate disaster relief for those affected.
Help people affected by Hurricane Harvey by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word HARVEY to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
Help people affected by Hurricane Irma by visiting redcross.org, calling 1- 800-RED CROSS or texting the word IRMA to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from this disaster. The Red Cross honors donor intent. Donors can designate their donation to Hurricane Irma or Hurricane Harvey relief efforts by choosing that option when donating on redcross.org or on 1-800-RED CROSS.


Attached Media Files: Local Red Cross Sends 25 Disaster Responders to Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma Relief Operations , Boats thrown from water - Key West , Naples, Florida Relief Shelter , Meals Inside Cambro Containers to be Distributed in Neighborhoods - Beaumont, TX , Carisa Hettich - Hurricane Harvey Response

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a single family home fire disaster on September 16, 2017 at approximately 1:00 a.m. in the 1200 block of NW 1st Street in Gresham, Ore. The fire affected one adult and one child.

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 multi family home fire disaster on September 15, 2017, at approximately 6:30 p.m. in the 4800 block of 180th Avenue in Aloha, Ore. The fire affected three 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 single family home fire disaster on September 15, 2017, at approximately 5:00 p.m. in the 11300 block of SW Spring Hill Road in Gaston, Ore. The fire affected four adults, five children, and four 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.

The local American Red Cross in Oregon and SW Washington continues to help people evacuated from their homes because of the Eagle Creek Fire. Due to ongoing fire activity and at the request of Hood River County, the Red Cross will be relocating its shelter to Hood River.

Red Cross responders are currently operating two wildfire relief shelters and providing food, water, shelter, health services and emotional support for evacuees.

As of yesterday, the Red Cross had distributed approximately 10,830 meals and snacks at the two shelters since the start of the relief operation on September 3. Approximately 5,047 meals and snacks have been served at the Multnomah County shelter and approximately 5,783 meals and snacks have been served at the Hood River County shelter.

SHELTER RELOCATION
The shelter located at Skamania County Fairgrounds Hedgewald Center in Stevenson, WA is being relocated to the Hood River Assembly of God, located at 979 Tucker Rd., Hood River, OR 97031 after dinner this evening. All services available at the Red Cross shelter at the Skamania County Fairgrounds will be available to evacuees at the new shelter location, including pet sheltering assistance. Evacuee RVs may park at Hood River Port Lot 1, 1000 E. Port Marina Dr., Hood River, OR 97031 free of charge.

RELIEF SHELTERS
As of last night, approximately 45 people were assisted at the Red Cross shelter located in Multnomah County.
As of last night, approximately 60 people were assisted at the Red Cross shelter located in Hood River County.

How to Help Relief Efforts:
Donations: People interested in helping Red Cross relief efforts are asked to please make a financial donation to the American Red Cross at redcross.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS. Financial donations allow the Red Cross to be flexible in the help we deliver and ensure that we can provide what disaster victims need most during a relief operation.

Wildfire Relief: you can designate your donation to the "Local Red Cross." Call 503-528-5634 to make a financial donation specifically to "Oregon Wildfires."

In-Kind Donations: the American Red Cross may accept large quantities of solicited in-kind products or services to support relief efforts. To inquire about in-kind donations in bulk, call 503-528-5634.


About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/Cascades or find us on Facebook at Facebook.com/RedCrossCascades, Twitter at @RedCrossCasc and find us on Instagram at @RedCrossCascades.

PORTLAND, OR: Central City Concern (CCC), Portland's non-profit serving people impacted by homelessness, poverty and addictions since 1979, has begun construction on the second of three buildings in the Housing is Health initiative -- a pioneering commitment from local hospitals and health systems in supportive, affordable housing. Health systems leadership visited the Stark Street Apartments site (333 SE 122nd Ave. at Stark St., Portland) on Friday, Sept. 15.

Attendees from the Housing is Health coalition included David Russell (Adventist Health Portland), Eric Hunter (CareOregon), Bill Wiechmann (Kaiser Permanente Northwest), Cindy Grueber (OHSU) and Dave Underriner (Providence Health & Services Oregon). Legacy Health is also part of the Housing is Health coalition. The other two buildings in the Housing is Health initiative are Charlotte B. Rutherford Place (N. Interstate) and the Eastside Health Center (NE 122nd and Burnside).

Stark Street Apartments, opening in 2018, will target people exiting transitional housing programs who have gained employment and seek a permanent home, but still may have barriers to housing. CCC expects to attract potential tenants from the immediate neighborhood. The four-story building contains 153 homes total: 92 one-bedroom and 61 two-bedroom apartments. Rents will range from $412--$995 per month, depending on Median Family Income.

"These homes are important for supporting employed people with affordable housing. The health care organizations in the Housing is Health coalition understand that housing for lower income working people is critical to good health outcomes and a healthy community," says Ed Blackburn, CCC president and CEO.

Stark Street Apartments' major contributors include the Housing is Health coalition of six health organizations: Adventist Health Portland, CareOregon, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Legacy Health, OHSU and Providence Health & Services Oregon. Other major funders are Portland Housing Bureau, Umpqua Bank, US Bank Community Development Corporation, Federal Home Loan Bank and PGE.

The design and development team is Central City Concern, the architect is Ankrom Moisan and the builder is Team Construction.


Attached Media Files: Stark Street Apartments will open in 2018. , Mack Thames, Team Construction Senior Project Manager (foreground) leads representatives of the Housing is Health initiative hospital and health care organizations on a tour of the Stark Street Apartments construction. L to R: Eric Hunter, CareOregon Pres , L to R: Bill Wiechmann, Kaiser Permanente Vice President and Regional Counsel; Ed Blackburn, Central City Concern President and CEO; Cindy Grueber, OHSU Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer; David Russell, Adventist Health Portland President

The Fort Vancouver National Trust announced it has undergone a re-branding, and is renaming itself The Historic Trust, with a tag line, "Celebrating history. Inspiring tomorrow."

"The Trust's success in the preservation and management of properties on the Historic Site brings it to a point at which it is able to focus on public engagement," said Mike True, President and CEO, adding that the new brand more accurately represents the 501(c)(3) organization's mission and role in the community today. "The organization has evolved over the last 19 years, and continues to grow," said True. "Becoming 'The Historic Trust' supports current and future goals and objectives."

New and innovative programming plays a key role in redefining The Historic Trust, according to True. The Board of Directors' strategic plan includes a robust initiative to engage adults and families that brings more tours, military history talks, lectures, and volunteer opportunities. A partnership with WSU Vancouver will result in the development of an augmented reality experience for visitors to engage, via mobile device, with iconic people from history at Providence Academy, and along Officers Row. The curriculum at Pearson Field Education Center is gaining ground as a gateway for kids to embrace STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) subjects through aviation.

The Historic Trust continues to be innovative and entrepreneurial in the production of annual community events identified within its Celebrate Freedom program, including the Marshall Lecture and Awards, Flag Day Ceremony, Veterans Parade, and Independence Day at Fort Vancouver. "Our community has a patriotic spirit that springs from its military history. It is a goal for The Historic Trust to form new partnerships, and strengthen current ones, in an effort to collaboratively provide the kinds of celebrations and observances that bring people together."

Through a master lease with the City of Vancouver established in 2006, the Trust maintains and preserves the city-owned Officers Row and West Vancouver Barracks historic properties, and managed all residential and commercial leases in those buildings. This oversight includes event venue rental for spaces at the Artillery Barracks, Red Cross Building, O. O. Howard House, and Marshall House. This core strength and aptitude of preservation and management has expanded to the Providence Academy. Acquired by the Trust in 2015, ownership of the Academy broadens the Trust's interests and connects it to downtown.

The Academy brings a wide range of possibilities and responsibilities beyond preservation, lease management, and event space rental. There is the public engagement aspect of making accessible the story of Mother Joseph and the building's significant role in Pacific Northwest history. "A cadre of trained docents will soon be in place to manage the public interest in Providence Academy," said Director of Outreach and Programs, Richard Burrows. "They will provide tours at the Academy, and on Officers Row." Phase One of a plan to tell the story of Mother Joseph in exhibits has already been implemented, with the installation of interpretive panels on the property, both inside and out. Future phases will bring people and stories to life in ways that engage the senses and challenge perspective.

The organization was established in 1998 as the Vancouver National Historic Reserve Trust. It was formed as the nonprofit partner to multiple agencies with an interest in preserving and making accessible the history, structures, and cultural resources of the 366-acre Vancouver National Historic Reserve. Those agencies included the City of Vancouver, National Park Service, the U.S. Army, and the State of Washington. In 2009, it took on the business name of Fort Vancouver National Trust. The Army vacated the site in 2012. The National Park Service owns the reconstructed fort, the parade grounds and the visitor center, the Pearson Air Museum, as well as the East and South Vancouver Barracks.

The Historic Trust has a new logo and color palette, and three interconnected websites have been launched to anchor the main areas of business within the organization. They are The Historic Trust main site: www.thehistorictrust.org; Pearson Field Education Center: www.pearsonfieldeducation.org; and Property Management: www.historictrustproperties.org. Staff email addresses have changed to first.last@thehistorictrust.org.

The governance and policies of The Historic Trust are the responsibility of a Board of Directors, which manages the affairs of the Trust with a mission to inspire civic pride and economic vitality through education, preservation, and celebration of our community's history.


Attached Media Files: www.thehistorictrust.org

The Fort Vancouver National Trust is announcing a new route for the upcoming 31st Annual Veterans Parade at Fort Vancouver presented by the Lough Legacy. The event takes place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 11, rain or shine.

The new route will begin at the east end of Officers Row at East Reserve Street. The parade will head west along Evergreen Blvd, past Officers Row and the Providence Academy. At the Vancouver Library, the parade will head south down "C" Street and turn west on 8th Street. From 8th Street the parade will turn north on Main Street, then head east on 11th Street, ending at the west side of the Providence Academy. Attendees are welcome to watch the parade from the sidewalks, grass, and covered areas along the parade route.

The Fort Vancouver National Trust is collaborating with the Community Military Appreciation Committee to produce the Veteran's Day Ceremony at 10 a.m. before the parade in the Providence Academy Ballroom. Covered seating on the Academy lawn will be provided after the ceremony for parade viewing.

This year marks the 31st anniversary of this community celebration honoring Veterans of all service branches. Registration for the parade is now open, and parade applications are available online at www.fortvan.org/veteransparade, or at the Fort Vancouver National Trust office in the O.O. Howard House at 750 Anderson Street. The deadline for the initial parade line-up is October 9, 2017. After this date, applications will continue to be accepted, but late registrants will be put at the end of the parade lineup. Annually, it attracts more than 120 entries, with approximately 2,500 individuals marching or riding in the parade. The public is invited to demonstrate their support of veterans and troops by attending. It is one of the largest Department of Veteran Affairs sanctioned veteran's parades on the West Coast.

Groups and organizations that would like to honor our nation's veterans are encouraged to participate. Past participants include numerous veterans service organizations representing all branches of the service, local high school marching bands, several college and high school ROTC groups, Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops from throughout the region, a variety of equestrian units, and military and civilian vehicle collector clubs. The parade will be broadcast on CVTV.

This parade is produced from support from the Lough Legacy, an endowment from Frank and Joanne Lough to support the Veterans Parade in perpetuity. This parade is also made possible by support from The Vancouver Clinic, Creekside Mortgage, City of Vancouver, the Columbian, and Clark Public Utilities.

About the Fort Vancouver National Trust:
The Fort Vancouver National Trust is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a vibrant community that preserves and celebrates its rich history while shaping its legacy for the future. The mission of the Trust is to inspire civic pride and economic vitality through education, preservation, and celebration of our community's history. For more information, visit fortvan.org or call 360-992-1800.

About the Community Military Appreciation Committee:
CMAC is an all-inclusive group composed of members representing youth, education, civic, military, veterans groups, and local governments. CMAC executes and plans community-wide events, such as the Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Our Community Salutes, and POW/MIA Day ceremonies as well as recognition/support of military families of all services. Learn more about CMAC at www.cmac11.com.

(VANCOUVER, WA) -- The Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce (GVCC) is proud to announce the 2017 recipients of the Business & Leadership Award program. All six recipients will be honored at the Chamber's Annual Officer Installation Dinner and Awards event on Wednesday, September 20th at the Hilton. Tickets are available online at www.vancouverusa.com. Doors open at 4:30pm for a Kentucky Derby themed reception featuring the live horses, mint juleps, yard games, and live music by the Vancouver String Quartet. The program begins at 5:30pm and starts with the introduction of the 2017-2018 Board of Directors. This year, the Chamber will recognize their first John S. McKibbin Leadership Legacy Award recipient along with Business of the Year (large and small category), Start-Up to Watch, Community Champion, and Statesman of the Year.

The 2017 Business & Leadership Award recipients are:

NEW: 2017 John S. McKibbin Leadership Legacy Award: Lee Rafferty
Lee Rafferty is the 2017 John S. McKibbin Leadership Legacy Award recipient. Lee is an entrepreneurial leader, strategic thinker, consensus builder, and can recognize the potential in others. As the Executive Director for Vancouver's Downtown Association, she found success in harnessing the passions of volunteers. "When people can find something that they believe in and can see that their efforts are making a difference, that's when the magic happens," she explained. At the VDA, Lee logged countless hours working with partners and investors to bring public art, savvy business practice trainings, facade improvements, better design standards, street trees, new memory-making events, and campaigns to share downtown's vibe with neighbors near and far. Lee also led the state in a significant fundraising effort over her tenure through the Tax Credit Incentive Program, which comes from the Department of Revenue. The competition was fierce, but local donors rallied behind Lee and the VDA's vision. Together, they became the highest performing downtown association in the State. Since 2007, the VDA raised nearly two million dollars in total to invest in city center projects. Lee consistently worked to solve problems, bring solutions forward, advocate for downtown stakeholders, and plan for the future. Before becoming the VDA's Executive Director, Lee served on their board of directors for six years, while running her own small business with her partner for 28 years. Her work establishing Spanky's, running operations, expanding to the east side of Vancouver, and her final transition out of ownership gave her a unique retail perspective perfectly suited to support the downtown business community and face the realities of business ownership head on. As a business owner and Executive Director of the VDA, Lee consistently advocated for infrastructure improvements, projects to increase the quality of life for all Vancouverites, and has worked towards projects like the transformation of the downtown Transit Mall. Lee's legacy is truly reflected on every street in Downtown Vancouver.

Business of the Year (Large Business): The Columbian
The Columbian has been deeply rooted in Clark County history since their first issue on October 10 in 1890. Every day since, they've brought local, national and international news to the community, as well as a variety of relevant events like the Economic Forecast Breakfast each January. Four generations of the Campbell family have grown The Columbian from molten lead cast into type, to a multimedia company with more than 60 unique print and digital products to meet the information needs of today's world. The Columbian has donated millions of dollars in free advertising to local nonprofits through their Community Partnership Program and which results in increased visibility to grow their charitable giving. Since the 1970s, The Columbian's People in Need program has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to assist families in need throughout Southwest Washington. Columbian.com is Clark County's most frequently visited local website with over 500,000 monthly web visitors and over 2 million page views of breaking news, features, blogs, business news, and vibrant, effective advertising. Their print and digital products allow them to report on people, places, events and life in completely new ways that reflect the flavor and variety of the local community. Even with the rapidly changing ways of accessing news and information, one thing has remained constant throughout The Columbian's 126 years - they are commitment to being Clark County's #1 local news and information source. "The Columbian serves as an important community watch dog - an integral part of a thriving community. Jody, Scott and the Campbell family are active in the community as exemplary citizens. Their brand of leadership, vision and generosity has advanced the community in so many ways and we hope this will continue for many generations to come," - Rhona Sen Hoss (former employee).

Business of the Year (Small Business): Chappelle's Towing LLC
Chappelle's Towing LLC has been thriving in Southwest Washington for over 30 years and works to support the community at every turn. In 2016, the Chappelle's team created the "Uplift" program which identifies people in need within our community twice a year and gives them the gift of transportation to rebuild or enhance their lives. The Uplift program is a business-to-business partnership involving vendor partners in an effort to celebrate "doing good" in our community. Chappelle's is also a sponsor of the Pink Lemonade Project, donors to the Share House, involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs, and in 2017 they stepped up as a sponsor of Cruise the Couve as the event faced peril. The Cruise the Couve sponsorship helped to provide basic waste disposal and sanitation services needed to keep our community clean and safe for the approximately 20,000 people that enjoy the event annually. Their commitment to quality is demonstrated through their state-of-the-art equipment, talented vehicle recovery specialists, and 24-hour damage free towing. In addition to towing, they provide roadside assistance, impound services, accident scene services, winching and public auto auctions. Chappelle's Towing has earned "Best in Clark County" in 2016 and 2017 and is a Preferred Provider/Contractor for AAA Services, honored in 2012, 2013, 2014 & 2015 with the Provider of Excellence Award by AAA members.

Statesman of the Year: Representative Brandon Vick (18th Legislative District, Pos. 1)
Representative Vick is an active participant in a variety of community efforts, not only in the 18th Legislative District, but throughout Southwest Washington. He is constantly engaging citizens and business leaders to hear about ways the legislature can work toward efficient and effective government. In 2017, Brandon became the Washington Hospitality Association's Legislative Hero and in 2016 was the Washington Retail Association's Legislator of the Year. This year, Brandon sponsored House Bill 1593, which provides small businesses the ability to access capital via crowdfunding platforms. Specifically, this bill works to remove investment limitations of accredited investors and is an improvement to legislation passed years ago. The goal was to provide businesses innovative new ways to invest and raise capital, specifically for rural and coastal communities that are struggling within our State. Vick also earned a 100 percent small business score and was honored with the 2016 Guardian of Small Business Award. Brandon is a lifelong resident of Clark County. He graduated from Hudson's Bay High School and went onto complete his A.A. at Clark College. He also attended Washington State University and completed Leadership Clark County in 2010. He married his high school sweetheart, Darci, and together they have a young daughter, Makena. Brandon is the sales and marketing manager for Vick Landscaping, a family owned and operated business founded by his grandfather in 1961. Vick's community involvement includes work on the Salvation Army Capital Campaign, Boy Scout Merit Badge Counselor, Habitat for Humanity Volunteer, Boys and Girls Clubs volunteer, Building Industry Association Member, and the past chairman, Clark County Republican Party.

2017 Start-Up to Watch (defined as first five years in business): TriStar Family Chiropractic
A recent transplant from Central Florida, Dr. Gloria Arroyo-Grubbs opened her specialized Chiropractic practice in Vancouver in 2015. Dr. Gloria Arroyo-Grubbs, DC, BA, BS has over 20 years' experience in the health care industry and is passionate about her community, working to ensure a better health future for all cultures in the Pacific Northwest. From running large corporate wellness projects across the U.S. to specialized chiropractic care for individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities and scoliosis reduction center, Dr. Grubbs' healthcare experience comes with a diverse toolbox. In less than two years in practice, she has jumped in to be an asset to our community. She is the only Spanish speaking Chiropractic Physician in SW WA, she is the Health Care Chair for SW WA LULAC chapter, Steering committee member for SW WA Healthy Living Collaborative, Board member of Community Roots Collaborative, Ethics committee member for Clark County health department, active supporter of Autism Empowerment, Alzheimer's Association as well as HOPE dementia support group, she is an inaugural member of the "B2B" mentor program for Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce (GVCC) as well as a presenter for the GVCC Ready, Set, Go! Wellness Workshop Series. Recently, she has been awarded the Best in Business 2016 by the Vancouver Business Journal and nominated for the Impactful Woman NW of the Year Award. She has dual undergraduate degrees from East Carolina University, received her Master's in health administration from Central Michigan University and graduated top her class at the prestigious Palmer College of Chiropractic where she received her Doctorate of Chiropractic Medicine. A busy mom of three and married to her fellow power lifter and college sweetheart for over 17 1/2 years, she serves her community from her private practice in Hazel Dell/Salmon Creek.

Community Champion (outstanding community contributions): Mark Matthias & Ali Novinger
Mark Matthias and Ali Novinger have impacted countless lives in Southwest Washington. Partnering with the local community, Beaches Restaurants and WareHouse '23 work year-round to coordinate fundraising efforts and events to raise money for those in need. Besides the Beaches Summertime Cruise-In, guests have participated in the Beaches Charity table, billboard, monthly charity match days, celebrity server days, Beaches Golf tournament, numerous Cashback Days for a variety of nonprofits, and this past year WareHouse '23 provided free Thanksgiving meals for those in need. Through Beaches, Warehouse '23, and Choose Fun Inc., they've infused over 2.3 million dollars back into the community. While Mark and Ali receive requests daily, they rarely turn down a good cause. Here are just a few of the great nonprofits they've supported: Share, YWCA Clark County, Vancouver School District Foundation, Free Clinic, Bridge the Gap, YWCA Clark County, Boys and Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington, NW Association for Blind Athletes, and the Police Activities League. Annually, they organize Green Eggs & Ham, bringing the characters, books, and a "green egg" breakfast to about 8,000 students from 48 elementary schools within the Vancouver and Evergreen School Districts each spring. Mark Matthias and the late George Propstra founded Beaches Restaurant and Bar back in 1995. Matthias has also earned the title of Vancouver's First Citizen, an elite group of extraordinary people designated by the Community Foundation of Southwest Washington. The goal of the Beaches Charity Fund (supported largely by the Beaches' Summer Cruise-In) is to raise $3 million by 2020 and they're almost there. Alasondra Novinger, better known as Ali, is originally from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and moved to Vancouver in 1998. Over the years she has helped organize and run multiple community events, is on the board of the Boys and Girls Club, and runs one of the largest weekly cruise-in classic car shows in the United States.

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce (GVCC):
Founded in 1890, the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce (GVCC) is a non-profit organization aimed at advancing and strengthening the regional business community through member services, public affairs advocacy and community building. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce is the heart of Clark County's business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate while improving Vancouver's infrastructure and quality of life. For more information, please visit www.vancouverusa.com.
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Attached Media Files: 2017-09/3339/107928/Ali_and_Mark_at_YWCA_GALA.jpg , 2017-09/3339/107928/Chappelles_Uplift_Giveaway_Event_with_Owners_on_far_right_Sean_McNamee_and_Kevin_Boyer_with_Polina_Senchilo_Community_Relations_Coordinator_in_the_middle.jpg , 2017-09/3339/107928/Brandon_Vick.jpg , 2017-09/3339/107928/Dr._Gloria_from_TriStar_Chiropractic.jpg , 2017-09/3339/107928/Lee_Rafferty.jpg , 2017-09/3339/107928/The_Columbian.png

We're asking Oregonians of every faith, of all our robust nationalities and ethnicities, to next Sunday's expression of reassurance to all our Rohingya families, that they are loved and respected by all of us.

This will also be a deep, wide, and clear condemnation of the nation of Myanmar's military and political leaders.

Burning the homes, mosques, and businesses of vulnerable Rohingya ethnic minority families; murdering boys and men, sexually assaulting girls and women, then expelling an entire Muslim community from Myanmar, violates all norms of international law and every American's sense of decency.

OUR GATHERING

Where and when: September 24 at "Portland's Living Room" -- downtown Pioneer Square.

We ask participants to bring banners or signs expressing our respect and affection for all humanity, particularly Myanmar's and America's Rohingya communities.

1pm: Gather at Pioneer Square to the sound of live traditional.

1:45pm: Speakers from all our faith communities, local elected and civil society leaders, will address our gathering and the media.

2:15pm: Silent six-block walk, returning to Pioneer Square where we will join in an African American spiritual hymn as an expression of our shared humanity.

Questions and concerns:

Yusuf Iqbal, Americans for Rohingya, Tel/text 503.545.2901. yusufmisrah@gmail.com
Wajdi Said, Muslim Educational Trust, Tel:503.579.6621. Wajdi@metpdx.org
Polo, City of Portland, Tel/text 503.823.6224. RonaultCatalani@portlandoregon.gov

Portland, Ore. (September 19, 2017) -- Guests of all ages are invited to enjoy the bounty of Oregon while learning about the state's specialty crops at Harvest Festival, a free event hosted at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) on October 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In partnership with the Oregon Department of Agriculture, Harvest Festival offers guests the opportunity to indulge in snacks, sweets, beer, wine and produce from the Pacific Northwest. Learn about Oregon specialty crops with more than 40 vendors from local farms, cooking demonstrations and artisan vendors. There's fun for the whole family, including kids activities, llamas, large farm equipment to explore and live entertainment on the stage.

For the complete list of vendors and activities, please visit https://omsi.edu/calendar/harvest-festival

OMSI's Harvest Festival stage will feature cooking demonstrations throughout the day, including a Chopped-style cooking competition where local chefs will face off to prepare the ultimate harvest feast featuring Oregon crops.

OMSI's seasons of food science is supported in part by the USA Specialty Crop Block Grant through the Oregon Department of Agriculture, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

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.

A new video celebrating the importance of high school graduation debuted today on "The Promise of Oregon" website at www.promiseoregon.org.

The video can also be seen on YouTube at https://youtu.be/CMF0ad6T6Uk

The video was filmed at 2017 graduation ceremonies at Bethel SD (Eugene), Reynolds SD (Portland), Astoria SD and Eagle Point SD (north of Medford). It captures the excitement of seniors graduating from high school and celebrating with their families and friends.

The video is the first in a series of Promise efforts in 2017-18 that will focus on improving graduation rates at Oregon high schools statewide. Look for more in coming weeks, including debut of a longer graduation video in November.

The Promise of Oregon debuted in 2014 as a public awareness campaign by OSBA. Its goal is to celebrate the achievements of Oregon students and their public schools, and ensure that we invest adequately in education so they can achieve their potential.

OSBA is a member services organization for more than 200 locally elected boards serving school districts, education service districts and community colleges. It also provides services to charter schools and their boards.

Website: promiseoregon.org
Twitter and Instagram: @PromiseOregon
Facebook and YouTube: ThePromiseofOregon

September 18, 2017 -- In the second quarter of 2017, community hospitals across Oregon saw low operating margins compared those of prior years, continuing the trend from the previous several quarters. The median operating margin at an Oregon hospital was 2.3 percent in the second quarter of 2017 -- significantly down from the 5.3 percent recorded for the same period in 2016.

"Oregon hospitals are continuing to face difficult financial decisions," said Andy Davidson, president and CEO of the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems. "But hospitals remain committed to their staff, their patients, and the communities they serve as they navigate this troublesome period."

While the number of self-pay patients has continued to remain stable at just under two percent, charity care totaled $99.8 million in the second quarter of 2017, up 9.3 percent from $91.3 million in Q1. This shows that despite increased coverage, hospitals are seeing increasing numbers of patients who lack the ability to pay because they are uninsured or have high deductible health plans.

Notably, outpatient visits continued to increase, and indeed the increase in this quarter was significantly higher than before, up by 4.5 percent from Q2 2016. Inpatient volumes remained stable. At the same time, emergency department visits decreased 1.5 percent as compared with the same quarter in 2016, with 336,624 total visits in the second quarter of 2017.

The continued low margins came before the implementation of a new legislatively-mandated 0.7 percent tax on the largest hospitals to shore up the finances of the state's Medicaid program. Hospitals are very concerned about the impact of this tax combined with other payment cuts passed by the Legislature this past session.

"While the uncertainty around health care at the national level seems to have leveled out, there is still considerable question about Oregon's system and its long-term sustainability," added Davidson. "Hospitals are devoted to a fully-funded, sustainable Medicaid system in Oregon, but the Legislature must consider the impact of taxes and cuts on hospitals' ability to provide the care Oregon communities expect. Today's report shows we must continue to watch closely to ensure they stay financially viable as core funders of the Medicaid program."
To read the entire report, click here.

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About OAHHS: Founded in 1934, OAHHS is a statewide, nonprofit trade association that works closely with local and national government leaders, business and citizen coalitions, and other professional health care organizations to enhance and promote community health and to continue improving Oregon's innovative health care delivery system.

Apprise Health Insights is the premier resource for hospital and health system data and analytics in the Pacific Northwest. As the data subsidiary of the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems, Apprise is uniquely positioned to collect hospital and health system data, and provide the meaningful analysis essential for informed decision-making.


Attached Media Files: Full Report , PDF version

What does it mean for Oregon employers and workers?

PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Portland Business Alliance is pleased to announce the kick off of the 2017-18 Forum Breakfast series with a topic affecting many Oregon businesses and employees, Dollars & Sense: Oregon's Minimum Wage. The Forum takes place on Wednesday, Sept. 20 from 7:30 -- 8:45 a.m. at the Sentinel Hotel, 614 SW 11th Ave., Portland, Oregon.

The Alliance is pleased to welcome a distinguished panel including State Rep. Janelle Bynum (District 15), Professor Jacob Vigdor of the University of Washington and Charlene Wesler, owner of Gigi's Café. The panel will be moderated by Kerry Tymchuk, executive director of the Oregon Historical Society.

In March 2016, Oregon Gov. Kate Brown signed the state's new minimum wage law, which will increase Oregon's minimum wage over a six-year period. For the first time, the law created varying minimum wages across different regions in the state. Panelists will discuss how the new law is being implemented by businesses, as well as a recent study of Seattle's increase, which was conducted by Professor Vidgor at the University of Washington.

The Forum Breakfast Series is sponsored by KeyBank, the Portland Tribune and Liberty Mutual Insurance. It is open to the public. Check the Alliance website www.portlandalliance.com for admission details and pricing.


Attached Media Files: State Rep. Janelle Bynum, Professor Jacob Vigdor and Charlene Wesler join the Alliance on Sept 20

(PORTLAND, Ore.) Portland Children's Museum, in partnership with Randall Children's Hospital, will host a Car Seat Check event for parents and caregivers on how to correctly install and use car seats on Saturday, September 23, 2017 from 9 -- 11:30 a.m.

Every 33 seconds, one child under the age of 13 is involved in a crash, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Many times deaths and injuries can be prevented by proper use of car seats, boosters, and seat belts.

"Using your car safety seat correctly is imperative to the safety of your child," said Tammy Franks, child passenger safety seat coordinator at Randall Children's Hospital at Legacy Emanuel. "97% of caregivers believe that they are using their seat correctly but studies show that less than 25% are actually installed correctly."

It's important to meet with a nationally certified Child Passenger Safety Technician to make certain that you are using the right seat for your child, harnessing your child correctly and correctly installing your seat.

Each car seat check will be conducted by a Child Passenger Safety Technician and will take about 30 minutes. Seat checks will take place in Parking Lot A in Washington Park, next to Portland Children's Museum.

About Portland Children's Museum
We're a museum that doesn't act like a museum because our audience--children and the adults who care for them--is more important to us than anything we collect. Instead of investing in precious objects, we create priceless opportunities for our visitors to learn through play.

About Randall Children's Hospital
Randall Children's Hospital at Legacy Emanuel is one of Oregon's largest providers of pediatric
inpatient and trauma services and is part of Legacy Health's seven hospital system. Randall
Children's Hospital opened its new nine-story, 165-bed home in Portland in February 2012.
With a medical staff of more than 600 physicians, including pediatric medical and surgical
specialists, sub-specialists, hospitalists and community pediatricians the hospital receives over 100,000 patient visits per year.

HOURS 9 a.m.--5 p.m. daily | Target Free First Friday on first Friday of every month from 4--8
p.m.
ADMISSION Museum members: Free | Under age 1: Free | Ages 1--64: $10.75 | Over 65 &
military: $9.75
CONTACT 503-223-6500 | portlandcm.org | facebook.com/portlandcm
For more information about this exhibit please contact mbeebe@portlandcm.org.
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Attached Media Files: Car seat , Randall Children's Hospital Logo

What: REACH breaks ground on mixed-use development on SE Foster Road
72Foster brings 101 affordable homes to SE Portland

When: Thursday, September 21st, 2017 3:00pm -- 5:00pm

Where: 7238 SE Foster Rd., Portland, OR

Hosted by: REACH Community Development

Day of media contact: Lauren Schmidt, Fundraising & Public Relations Manager
Cell: (503)998-1856 or direct: (971)277-7186 lschmidt@reachcdc.org


REACH Community Development (REACH) breaks ground on 72Foster, providing 101 new affordable apartment homes to SE Portland. Groundbreaking festivities will take place on Thursday, September 21st at 3:00 pm at 7238 SE Foster Rd., Portland with refreshments and entertainment from the Portland Mercado.

72Foster will be an intergenerational, mixed-use building, creating 101 permanently affordable housing serving both seniors and families, with apartment sizes ranging from studios to 3-bedrooms. Building on the success of Hacienda CDC's adjacent Portland Mercado and the planned Foster Road streetscape improvements, 72Foster will have 8,900 sf of ground floor retail to serve the growing neighborhood.

72Foster emphasizes REACH's goals of providing transit-oriented affordable living, while building a vibrant community. As outer SE Portland's population grows and outpaces the current housing supply, it is becoming increasingly difficult for people earning low income wages or living on fixed incomes to find quality affordable apartments. REACH is addressing this need through 72Foster with rents affordable to residents earning approximately 60% of area Median Family Income (MFI), less than $31,000 for a single-person household. In addition, twenty apartments will have Project Based Section 8 vouchers, where residents will only pay 30% of their income in rent, serving those with very low incomes. Onsite programs and services to residents will be provided through a partnership with Asian Health & Service Center(AHSC).

The $24 million project is financed with funding from the KeyBank Community Development Corporation, KeyBank Community Development Lending, Freddie Mac (KeyBank Real Estate Capital as seller/servicer), Metro, Portland Housing Bureau, Oregon Housing and Community Services, and REACH Community Development, and is part of the Lents Town Center Urban Renewal Area. The building is designed by Holst Architecture with construction by LMC Construction Co., and will take approximately fifteen months to complete.

"We at KeyBank are dedicated to providing qualify affordable housing opportunities to seniors and families," said Rob Likes, national manager of KeyBank's Community Development Lending & Investment team. "Our collaboration with REACH demonstrates how, together, we will help this community thrive."
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Attached Media Files: 72Foster Rendering

Union Gospel Mission to Host 17th Annual Operation Overcoat Street Fair
Event Provides Clothing, Food and More for Homeless

Portland, Ore., - On Saturday, September 30 from 10:00 a.m. -- 2:00 p.m., Union Gospel Mission will be hosting the Mission's 17th Annual Operation Overcoat street fair, a clothing and food give away for people who are homeless or in need. This event is free and open to anyone in need.

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

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

At last year's Operation Overcoat, Union Gospel Mission provided over 3,000 articles of clothing and 1,200 barbeque meals.

To support Operation Overcoat, donations can be made online at www.ugmportland.org or call 503-274-4483. Items may be purchased via Union Gospel Mission's Amazon Wish List at http://a.co/bpG7Ap2

About Union Gospel Mission: Union Gospel Mission's purpose is "Feeding the hungry, restoring the addict and loving our neighbor." Union Gospel Mission has been serving Portland since 1927. Union Gospel Mission provides meals and care for the homeless, and operates LifeChange -- a transformative recovery program for men, women and children. Contact Union Gospel Mission at 503-274-4483 or ugmportland.org and @ugmpdx.
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Attached Media Files: Volunteer serves at Overcoat 2016 , Guest receives boots at Overcoat 2016