OSP News Conference regarding AMBER Alert suspect from Washington

Date: April 23, 2024 at 6 p.m. 

Location: Public Safety Building, Harris Hall, 125 E 8th Ave., Eugene, OR 97401

Media may begin staging at 5:45 p.m. for the 6 p.m. news conference. OSP will provide an overview of the incident. It's uncertain whether OSP will take any questions at that time. 

Salem, OR – It’s a day to remember those who died on the job. It’s a day to grieve with families, friends, and communities. It’s a day to renew our responsibility to create and maintain safe and healthy workplaces for all workers in Oregon.

Oregon workers who died on the job will be honored with a ceremony at noon Friday, April 26, in Salem. The Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) – part of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) – and Oregon AFL-CIO invite all Oregonians to attend the Workers Memorial Day observance.

The event will take place at the Fallen Workers Memorial outside the Labor and Industries Building, 350 Winter St. NE, on the Capitol Mall. The memorial service, coordinated by Oregon AFL-CIO, will feature remarks from union leaders, safety and health advocates, and elected officials.

“Every day, people across Oregon leave their homes and go to work to provide for themselves and their families – and to help make the state a thriving place to live,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “Today, we honor the Oregonians whose lives were tragically lost doing their job and offer our deepest condolences to their families. Going forward, we will continue our efforts to make working conditions safer, so all workers are better protected.”

During the ceremony, Sen. Deb Patterson and House Majority Leader Ben Bowman will read the names of Oregon workers who died on the job in 2023.

Oregon OSHA Administrator Renée Stapleton and Oregon AFL-CIO President Graham Trainor will serve as event speakers. The event will also include remarks from PCUN Representative Liz Marquez Gutierrez and a reading of Gov. Kotek’s proclamation by Vince Porter, the governor’s deputy chief of staff for public administration. 

Oregon workplaces are safer and healthier today than in previous decades. Yet, there are still far too many preventable on-the-job deaths each year. 

“Every worker and their family deserves to know, without question, that they will return home safely at the end of a shift,” Trainor said. “This year, we read the names of 56 fallen workers, which is an increase from last year and the absolutely starkest reminder that workplace safety must be taken seriously. Oregon unions will advocate for safety improvements on the job until there are no names to be read aloud on Workers Memorial Day. This is our most critical mission, and, while we’ve made significant progress, we must always strive for perfection when it comes to keeping working people safe on the job.” 

Through a partnership of labor, business, and government working together to bolster workplace safety and health, Oregon’s fatality and injury and illness rates have steadily declined for decades.

Nevertheless, there is room for improvement.

“As we honor the memories of the lives tragically taken from us, we must also summon our courage, skill, and ethical duty to rekindle our commitment to protecting the safety and health of all workers in Oregon,” Stapleton said. “Everyone who plays a role in the safety and health of Oregon workplaces – employers, managers, safety and health professionals, employees, co-workers – must do this with urgency and clarity. Through our actions and words, we must carry the message forward that workers have an indisputable right to a safe and healthy workplace and that employers are obligated – not just legally, but morally – to protect their workers from harm.”

The annual Workers Memorial Day serves as a nationwide day of remembrance. The observance is traditionally held on April 28 because the U.S. Congress passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act on that date in 1970.

Resources are available to workers and employers to advance on-the-job safety and health in Oregon, including:

Oregon OSHA

• Rights and responsibilities
• Protect against retaliation 
• Keeping employees safe
• Education and training

DCBS Multicultural Communications Program

• Providing outreach to communities with limited English proficiency

Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers

• Independent advocate for Oregon workers, including guidance on workers’ rights and responsibilities in workers’ compensation and workplace safety and health

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Oregon OSHA, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. For more information, visit Oregon OSHA. 

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, visit DCBS. 

The Oregon AFL-CIO is the statewide federation of affiliated unions, representing more than 300,000 working Oregonians.  For more information, visit Oregon AFL-CIO.

Over 4,000 SOLVE volunteers celebrated Earth Day across 126 Oregon Spring Cleanup events over the span of ten days

Portland, Ore., April 23, 2024 – The Oregon Spring Cleanup, in partnership with Portland General Electric, concluded on Earth Day yesterday with resounding success. Between April 13 and April 22, more than 4,000 volunteers across Oregon and SW Washington gathered for a celebration of Earth Day, where they collectively picked up 21,981 pounds of litter and marine debris and removed 21,900 square feet of invasive plant species such as English Ivy and Himalayan Blackberry. Families, community members, neighborhood associations, youth groups, and environmental enthusiasts once again made the Oregon Spring Cleanup the highlight of SOLVE's annual calendar. 

Oregon Spring Cleanup History

Rooted in SOLVE's longstanding traditions, the Oregon Spring Cleanup merged two of the organization's most cherished events—the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup, dating back to 1986, and SOLVE IT for Earth Day, which began in 1990.

Oregon Spring Cleanup event highlights

SE Portland Eco-Disco: Litter Cleanup & Silent Disco, April 20th:

In collaboration with Heartbeat Silent Disco, this unique Earth Day celebration, in partnership with Portland General Electric, drew 114 volunteers to Portland’s Central Eastside. Following the cleanup in the Buckman neighborhood, where 800 lbs of litter got collected, the festivities continued with a free silent dance party, adding an extra layer of celebration to the cleanup efforts. Volunteers were provided with wireless headphones with personal volume control and adjustable fit, allowing everyone to enjoy the music while respecting the natural surroundings.

Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup at Sport Oregon, April 22nd:

This litter cleanup event took place on Earth Day and went beyond tidying up the neighborhood streets. 100 participants came together for a day of community, cleanliness, and local love at Sport Oregon to foster a sense of unity and enhance the local environment. 

“Once again, we were thrilled to witness the vibrant array of events orchestrated by our community, showcasing the power of collective action in honoring Earth Day," enthuses Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. "This annual event series continues to serve as a beacon, drawing together volunteers and SOLVE partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a joyous celebration of our planet. From the shores of Oregon’s northernmost tip in Astoria, down the coast to Brookings, and extending to riverside locations such as Cascade Locks, Sandy, and Breitenbush, as well as reaching Baker City in Eastern Oregon, the spirit of Earth Day resonated through every cleanup endeavor." Carico highlights the diverse range of initiatives, including the impactful efforts of the Portland chapter of Women Who Explore, bringing together 20 women for a Pre-Earth Day Riverside Cleanup at Kelley Point Park. A Girl Scout group also picked up trash along the Molalla River in Clackamas County and the Clark County Master Gardener group held an impactful Service Day in Vancouver, Washington. "These events exemplify the spirit of community and environmental stewardship that lies at the heart of SOLVE," Carico adds. 

Photo Contest

There is still time for volunteers and event leaders to send in the pictures they have taken during their cleanup events and habitat restoration projects. Everyone who submits their photos and videos by 
April 28 will enter the SOLVE photo contest with chances to win a 1-year AAA membership. Ways to enter include tagging SOLVE on Facebook or Instagram, using #OregonSpringCleanup2024, or sending us their footage via email to info@solveoregon.org. SOLVE likes to see volunteers in action, before and after cleanup shots, the largest and tiniest items you've picked up, and most importantly, your smiling faces!

Anyone who couldn’t attend an Oregon Spring Cleanup event this year can support SOLVE by individual giving. A donation of any size helps SOLVE to host more events year after year and to provide volunteers with free supplies, event leader training, and all the support they need to run a successful event.

Oregon Spring Cleanup Sponsors 2024

Along with Portland General Electric, other event sponsors include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Oregonian, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, PepsiCo, and Wells Fargo.

About SOLVE 

SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information. 

Over 4,000 SOLVE volunteers celebrated Earth Day across 126 Oregon Spring Cleanup events over the span of ten days

Portland, Ore., April 23, 2024 – The Oregon Spring Cleanup, in partnership with Portland General Electric, concluded on Earth Day yesterday with resounding success. Between April 13 and April 22, more than 4,000 volunteers across Oregon and SW Washington gathered for a celebration of Earth Day, where they collectively picked up 21,981 pounds of litter and marine debris and removed 21,900 square feet of invasive plant species such as English Ivy and Himalayan Blackberry. Families, community members, neighborhood associations, youth groups, and environmental enthusiasts once again made the Oregon Spring Cleanup the highlight of SOLVE's annual calendar. 

Oregon Spring Cleanup History

Rooted in SOLVE's longstanding traditions, the Oregon Spring Cleanup merged two of the organization's most cherished events—the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup, dating back to 1986, and SOLVE IT for Earth Day, which began in 1990.

Oregon Spring Cleanup event highlights

SE Portland Eco-Disco: Litter Cleanup & Silent Disco, April 20th:

In collaboration with Heartbeat Silent Disco, this unique Earth Day celebration, in partnership with Portland General Electric, drew 114 volunteers to Portland’s Central Eastside. Following the cleanup in the Buckman neighborhood, where 800 lbs of litter got collected, the festivities continued with a free silent dance party, adding an extra layer of celebration to the cleanup efforts. Volunteers were provided with wireless headphones with personal volume control and adjustable fit, allowing everyone to enjoy the music while respecting the natural surroundings.

Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup at Sport Oregon, April 22nd:

This litter cleanup event took place on Earth Day and went beyond tidying up the neighborhood streets. 100 participants came together for a day of community, cleanliness, and local love at Sport Oregon to foster a sense of unity and enhance the local environment. 

“Once again, we were thrilled to witness the vibrant array of events orchestrated by our community, showcasing the power of collective action in honoring Earth Day," enthuses Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. "This annual event series continues to serve as a beacon, drawing together volunteers and SOLVE partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a joyous celebration of our planet. From the shores of Oregon’s northernmost tip in Astoria, down the coast to Brookings, and extending to riverside locations such as Cascade Locks, Sandy, and Breitenbush, as well as reaching Baker City in Eastern Oregon, the spirit of Earth Day resonated through every cleanup endeavor." Carico highlights the diverse range of initiatives, including the impactful efforts of the Portland chapter of Women Who Explore, bringing together 20 women for a Pre-Earth Day Riverside Cleanup at Kelley Point Park. A Girl Scout group also picked up trash along the Molalla River in Clackamas County and the Clark County Master Gardener group held an impactful Service Day in Vancouver, Washington. "These events exemplify the spirit of community and environmental stewardship that lies at the heart of SOLVE," Carico adds. 

Photo Contest

There is still time for volunteers and event leaders to send in the pictures they have taken during their cleanup events and habitat restoration projects. Everyone who submits their photos and videos by 
April 28 will enter the SOLVE photo contest with chances to win a 1-year AAA membership. Ways to enter include tagging SOLVE on Facebook or Instagram, using #OregonSpringCleanup2024, or sending us their footage via email to info@solveoregon.org. SOLVE likes to see volunteers in action, before and after cleanup shots, the largest and tiniest items you've picked up, and most importantly, your smiling faces!

Anyone who couldn’t attend an Oregon Spring Cleanup event this year can support SOLVE by individual giving. A donation of any size helps SOLVE to host more events year after year and to provide volunteers with free supplies, event leader training, and all the support they need to run a successful event.

Oregon Spring Cleanup Sponsors 2024

Along with Portland General Electric, other event sponsors include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Oregonian, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, and PepsiCo.

About SOLVE 

SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information. 

April 23, 2024

Media Contact: Erica Heartquist, ica.j.heartquist@oha.oregon.gov">erica.j.heartquist@oha.oregon.gov, 503.871.8843

Report: As health care costs increase, Oregon patients are paying more in deductibles and copays

Oregon Health Authority furthers commitment to helping make healthcare more affordable across state

(PORTLAND, Ore. –) According to an Oregon Health Authority (OHA) report out today, the amount that Oregonians with commercial and Medicare Advantage insurance paid in deductibles, copays and co-insurance increased more than 17 percent from 2015 to 2022. As health care costs continue to grow, the amount that people with health insurance pay for their care – known as patient responsibility or patient cost sharing – is also rising.

On average, in 2022, people in Oregon with commercial health insurance were responsible for 13.4% of their total health care costs, and people with Medicare Advantage insurance were responsible for 9.1% of their total health care costs. This does not include how much people pay for their health insurance premiums.

Over the past several years, patient cost sharing increased by 17.4% for commercially insured Oregonians and 17.7% for those with Medicare Advantage insurance. That growth was driven primarily by increasing deductibles in the commercial market and co-insurance for prescription drugs in the Medicare Advantage market.

At least 28 percent of Oregonians were considered underinsured in 2021, meaning that even though they have health insurance, it was too expensive for them to use.

“Too many Oregonians are struggling to afford their health care, even as more than 95 percent of people in the state now have health coverage,” said OHA Director, Dr. Sejal Hathi. “This report provides more information about how much people in Oregon are paying for health care and the reasons for those cost increases. Health insurance should open the door to care, but instead, we know that even moderate increases in cost sharing can thwart access for those who need it most. OHA will continue to work both to rein in health care costs and to protect and expand access to care.”

What is Patient Cost Sharing?

When an individual or a household buys healthcare insurance, they agree to a certain set of arrangements for services are covered by the health plan and how much of the cost the health plan will pay. The portion of the cost of covered services that the patient is responsible for is “patient cost sharing.”

Unlike health insurance premiums, which are paid to the health plan whether any services are used or not, cost sharing only applies when services are used. Examples of patient cost sharing are deductibles, copays and co-insurance.

Report Findings

The report shows that people in Oregon with commercial health insurance paid for 13.6% of their total health care costs on average in 2022, with more than half of that going toward deductibles. Commercial deductibles grew 31.9% between 2015-2022, faster than the growth in commercial co-insurance (19.2%) and copays (4.3%).

This is in part due to the increase in number of people who have a high-deductible health plan. People with high deductible health plans are responsible for 22.9% of their total health care costs, even though their average annual health care costs were lower.

The report also shows that in 2022, people in Oregon with Medicare Advantage insurance paid 9.1% of their total health care costs, on average. More than 60 percent of Medicare Advantage cost sharing was in the form of copays and less than 5 percent was paid in deductibles.

In the commercial market, almost 40% of the cost sharing in 2022 was for professional services like a doctor’s visit. In the Medicare Advantage market, almost 40% of the cost sharing in 2022 was for prescription drugs, with people paying increasingly more in co-insurance for specialty drugs.

For More Information

OHA presented preliminary findings on patient cost sharing in an educational webinar in March. The recording from that webinar is available online here. View the patient cost sharing analysis webinar slides here.

The Cost Growth Target Advisory Committee meets each month to discuss and plan strategies for increased health care affordability.

Explore the patient cost sharing data in an interactive online dashboard and find the full patient cost sharing report online  here.

On April 23rd at about 2 a.m., a Lane County Sheriff’s deputy was responding from the Eugene area to an urgent call for service. The deputy was driving eastbound on Beltline Highway near Delta Highway when the deputy’s vehicle struck a slow-moving vehicle. The deputy and two occupants of the other vehicle were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.  At the request of the Sheriff’s Office on-duty supervisor, the Eugene Police Department responded and will handle the crash investigation.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University recently added a new position of Assistant Director of Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives in its Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to support efforts to become a Hispanic-Serving Institution. After a search, Cristian Mendez Garcia has been selected for this role and officially started on April 22. 

Mendez Garcia's journey began in the early 1990s when he immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico, settling in the Monmouth-Independence community. His educational path led him to Western, where he pursued his passion for art, graduating with a degree in graphic design and fine art photography. As the son of migrant workers, Mendez Garcia deeply appreciates the transformative power of higher education in opening doors to a brighter future. Drawing from his own experiences, he has dedicated his career to advancing opportunities for others. With a wealth of experience in the business sector, Mendez Garcia served as a business operations manager for T-Mobile, honing his skills in strategic planning and project management. In addition, he played a pivotal role as the Chapter Chair for T-Mobile’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts in the Oregon region, demonstrating his commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture. His dedication to Western extends beyond the classroom and workplace. Mendez Garcia has served on the WOU Foundation board and most recently held the position of Trustee member on the Western Oregon University Board of Trustees, where he continues to champion initiatives aimed at enhancing the university's mission and impact.

“I am incredibly thrilled to continue my work with Western Oregon University and am proud of our emerging HSI status,” shares Mendez Garcia. “Higher education is transformative and I love being in a position where I can help WOU achieve its HSI designation to help our students and the institution succeed.”

“I am excited to have Cristian join the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to support our university efforts to become a Hispanic Serving Institution,” says Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Dominique Vargas. “Cristian has a broad scope of diversity, equity, and inclusion experience combined with strategic planning, community engagement, and program development. He also has a clear passion for and investment in the Western Oregon University community. We will collaboratively vision our path forward as an emerging Hispanic institution, and work across stakeholder groups to better serve our students and community.” 

This Friday, April 26, Western is hosting its third annual Hispanic Serving Institution Summit, where state and national partners join the university and greater community to share ideas and best practices and discuss why becoming an HSI is critically important to student success and the greater community. This year’s summit will feature two keynote presenters, Patrick L. Valdez, Ph. D., and Marissa Vasquez, Ph. D., who will focus on the history, policy, and current context of Hispanic Serving Institutions, and discuss operationalizing servingness. There will also be a student panel, an afternoon of concurrent sessions, and networking time for attendees.

Learn more about the summit.

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon's oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction.  Together we succeed.

Salem, Ore. - The Oregon National Guard’s Biak Training Center, in Powell Butte, is scheduled to host active-duty Army rotary wing night training missions, outside of normal operations hours over April 24-29, 2024. The visiting unit is located at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, in Tacoma, Washington.

Army rotary wing aircraft are scheduled to conduct intermittent nighttime air operations at Biak’s

Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) training site in order to maintain pilot and crew proficiency necessary to support real world military operations. 

“Night training missions are a critical component for pilots to maintain their readiness for real-world missions,” said Michael Paul, Biak Training Area Manager. “We understand that this type of training can be disruptive to the local community and appreciate their support for mission readiness.”

Night flying operations will occur from sundown until approximately midnight and may include low-level flying and refueling stops at the Redmond Airport.

Information regarding Biak Training Center may be found on the Oregon Military Department website at https://www.oregon.gov/omd/programs/Pages/Biak-Training-Center.aspx

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Salem, Ore. – Tucked away with a stack of other tickets in a Tupperware container was this year’s $1 million Raffle ticket. Leslie Carr, 52, of Portland claimed the prize on Monday after she brought her pile of tickets to the retailer where she buys them – the Fred Meyer in Happy Valley. 

“I had no idea I was the winner,” said Carr, who works as a medical receptionist. “If it weren’t for the billion dollar Powerball winner making news, I would have forgot. We don’t check our tickets.”

After scanning a few dozen tickets for other draw games in the store, the last one was the winning Raffle ticket, drawn on March 15. When the machine came up with a message that she needed to go an Oregon Lottery office, she asked a staff member at the store to double check. 

“I heard him say, ‘Oh, I can’t cash this because your prize is worth over $1,000,’” she said. “That’s when I started getting butterflies.” 

Carr plans to use the money to pay off the mortgage on the home she shares with her husband, calling it “a dream come true.” A new truck to replace the one she currently drives with a broken windshield is also on her wish list, along with a vacation to Hawaii. 

Carr said she regularly plays the annual Raffle and has never won. Prizes for the Raffle include the $1 million top prize, along with 300 prizes of $500, and 1,500 prizes of $100. The Raffle offers the best odds of any Oregon Lottery game to win $1 million – 1 in 250,000. Overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 138.8. The Oregon Lottery’s Raffle game went on sale December 31, 2023, and all 250,000 tickets were sold out by March 8, 2024. 

The Oregon Lottery reminds players to always sign the back of their Lottery tickets, regardless of the game. In the event of winning a jackpot, they should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. 

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

Lebanon Fire District responds to shed fire in Lacomb. At approximately 1212am Lebanon Fire was dispatched for the report of structure fire in 33000 block of Ford Mill Rd. Initial reports stated that there was a shed on fire with livestock inside. BC31 was the first arriving unit and found a 20X30 shed that was fully involved and spreading to a vehicle that was parked close by. The first arriving Engine was able to make a quick knock down on the fire and keep it form spreading to other parked vehicles. Lebanon Fire District responded with 2 Engines, 3 Water Tenders, 2 Ambulances and a Battalion Chief Vehicle. Totaling 13 people.  Lebanon Fire District was assisted by Albany Fire Department for City coverage while the fire was being extinguished. 

Lebanon Fire district would like to remind everyone to use caution when using portable heat sources. It is important to make sure that the heat source is secured and away from placed a safe distance from combustible items. 

WHAT
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is hosting its eighth annual Oregon Prepared Conference for the emergency management community this Tuesday through Thursday in Sunriver.

WHY
The annual conference serves as a vital gathering for emergency management professionals, providing a forum for stakeholders from various sectors to exchange ideas, discuss current trends, and share information about the latest tools and technology in emergency management and homeland security. Attendees include partners with a role in preparedness, response, recovery and resilience from tribes, counties, cities, special districts, state and federal emergency management agencies, public safety and health preparedness sectors, non-profit organizations, and private sector businesses.

WHO
Oregon Department of Emergency Management Director Erin McMahon and Deputy Director Patence Winningham will be available for interviews about the state of emergency management in Oregon. Media may also visit a workshop session for B-roll footage.

WHEN
Media Avail from 9:45-10:15 a.m., Today, April 23

WHERE
Great Hall Conference Center
Sunriver Lodge
57081 Great Hall Loop, Sunriver, Oregon

OTHER INFORMATION
Website: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop
Program: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop Program

SOCIAL
@oregonOEM on Facebook, X and LinkedIn

ONSITE MEDIA CONTACT
Chris Crabb (she/her)
OEM Public Affairs Officer
971-719-0089 (talk or text)
Please text upon arrival

Devon was located this evening just moments ago. He is safe back home and uninjured. Thank you for the public assistance.  

Devon Whiteshell, age 14 walked away from his care home near Ward Dr NE / Lancaster Dr NE in Salem around 5:40 p.m. this evening.

Devon is 5’02” tall, skinny build. He was last seen wearing a gray zip-up jacket, dark blue/black jeans, and carrying a small book.

If you locate him, please keep him in your sight and call 911.

On April 22^nd, a male reported Timothy Leon Shafer, 54, had beat him with a metal T-post, knocking him unconscious and severely injuring him the night before. Deputies contacted the victim and confirmed his injuries. They responded to the 88800 block of Poodle Creek Road, where the incident took place, and located evidence confirming the victim’s account. 

Surprisingly, when deputies arrived, they observed Shafer trespassing along with a female, Ana Maria Teresa Glica, 47, and another male. Shafer and Glica were arrested for Trespass in the Second Degree and lodged in the Lane County Jail. Shafer was also charged with Assault in the Second Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. Another male on the property was cited in lieu of custody for Trespass in the Second Degree.

PORTLAND, OREGON– On Friday, April 19, 2024, FBI Director Christopher Wray presented the Interfaith Peace and Action Collaborative (IPAC) with the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA) for their service to the Portland area. Lisa Broderick accepted the FBI Portland 2023 Director’s Community Leadership Award on behalf of IPAC. IPAC is a united group that proactively gathers as members of faith, community, business, and law enforcement to discuss and create action around bringing peace to Portland’s streets. The group researches best practices and identifies appropriate actions, technology, and street-level solutions to address violence at a grassroots level. IPAC is also working to become a model for, and share information with, other cities that are struggling with an uptick in crime. 

“IPAC is intentional about promoting restraint on the street and creating and maintaining dialogue between the community members it represents and law enforcement. This directly intersects with the FBI’s national mission of protecting the American people, and FBI Portland’s local mission of keeping the people of Oregon safe,” said Douglas A. Olson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. “FBI Portland is proud to work with the leaders of IPAC as they devote countless hours to addressing the crisis of violence on Portland streets and are working toward solutions for a safer, shared community.”

The FBI established the DCLA in 1990 to publicly acknowledge the achievements of those working to make a difference in their communities through the promotion of education and the prevention of crime and violence. Each year, one person or organization from each of the FBI’s 56 field offices is chosen to receive this prestigious award.

"Our success as both a law enforcement and an intelligence agency hinges on our ability to foster and maintain genuine partnerships with people in all communities,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “People like this year’s Leadership Award recipients not only identify what others need, but they are willing to roll up their sleeves and provide services. They are building bridges and relationships while putting in the work to have hard conversations and find common purpose. They do it out of kindness and compassion with a sincere belief that justice – in its many forms – requires all of us to do the right thing in the right way."

Director Wray hosted the 2023 DCLA winners in a special ceremony at FBI Headquarters on April 19th, emphasizing the importance of community partnerships in keeping our shared communities safe. These partnerships – as exemplified by the breadth of the work by the DCLA recipients – have led to a host of crime prevention programs that protect the most vulnerable in our communities, educate families and businesses about cyber threats, and work to reduce violent crime in our neighborhoods. Learn more about the Director's Community Leadership Award, IPAC, and the FBI Portland Field Office online DCLA 2023 Winners — FBI. Learn more about the FBI’s general outreach efforts, and the Portland Field Office online About — FBI.

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Attached photo: Lisa Broderick accepted the FBI Portland 2023 Director’s Community Leadership Award on behalf of the Interfaith Peace and Action Collaborative. 

PORTLAND, Ore.— Every April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) to honor crime victims, promote their rights and recognize victim advocates. This year’s observance, the 43^rd annual commemoration, takes place April 21-27, 2024, with the theme: Options, services, and hope for crime survivors.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office joins its federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners in taking this opportunity to highlight the importance of providing necessary services at the earliest possible stage of victimization and litigation. Early intervention helps prevent further victimization and encourages victim involvement in the criminal justice system, mitigating the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.

“Through the work of our victim services team, our new special victims unit, and all our staff who work on victim cases, seeking justice on behalf crime victims is central to our mission and continues to be a top priority for our office,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local, and tribal agencies host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services.

OVC and U.S. Attorney’s Offices encourage widespread participation in the week’s events and in other victim-related observances throughout the year. For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov. For ongoing updates from OVC and ideas for how you can support crime victims throughout the year, please subscribe to OVC’s email notifications at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/subscribe/.

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you believe you have been the target or victim of a crime, please contact your local law enforcement agency or your nearest FBI field office immediately. The FBI Portland Field Office can be reached at (503) 224-4181 or by submitting tips online at tips.fbi.gov.

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On April 19th around noon, Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue and Marine Patrol deputies were dispatched to a report of a 59-year-old male in the water at Lookout Point Lake. The male had fallen out of his kayak but was wearing a lifejacket. He was unable to get back in the boat, however, and had been in the water for over 15 minutes. Deputies were able to get the male and his kayaking partner to shore. The male was transported to the hospital to be evaluated for hypothermia.

This call could have turned out tragically had the boaters not been wearing life jackets. Our many lakes and rivers are still frigid from snow melt and cold spring nights. It can take only minutes for even a strong swimmer submerged in the water to lose the ability to swim or even call for help.

Enjoy Lane County’s waterways, but please, ALWAYS wear a life jacket!

The four $25,000 investments are part of OnPoint’s Green Horizons initiative to protect the Pacific Northwest’s environment and fight climate change

PORTLAND, Ore., April 22, 2024 — In celebration of Earth Day 2024, OnPoint Community Credit Union has donated $100,000 to local nonprofits working to preserve and protect the environment, natural resources and wildlife in Oregon and SW Washington. 

The donation is part of OnPoint’s Green Horizons initiative, which launched in 2021 to help empower the credit union’s members and employees to care for the planet. This year’s beneficiaries are The Nature Conservancy in Oregon, Friends of Trees, McKenzie River Trust and Columbia Slough Watershed Council. Each organization will receive $25,000.

“Earth Day is a powerful reminder of how critical it is to preserve our planet for future generations,” said Rob Stuart, President and CEO, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “The Green Horizons initiative is OnPoint’s commitment to giving our community the opportunity to make a difference, while amplifying the work of local organizations dedicated to protecting our planet. We are proud to support these four incredible organizations that are at the forefront of environmental conservation.” 

OnPoint’s Green Horizons provides members with financing discounts on electric or hybrid vehicles and solar panels, partners with local environmental nonprofits, and offers employees telecommuting programs, volunteer opportunities and environmental education. Since its launch, OnPoint has donated more than $500,000 to local nonprofits working to create a more sustainable future.

Supporting Oregon’s conservation with local nonprofit support

The Nature Conservancy in Oregon (TNC) brings people together to solve the most significant conservation challenges of our time. Since 2017, OnPoint has donated more than $340,000 to help fund projects, including forest restoration, ensuring vibrant and resilient coastal communities and sustainable fisheries, and protecting existing soil and underground carbon in Eastern Oregon. In 2021, OnPoint pledged up to $250 to TNC for every approved electric or hybrid vehicle loan with OnPoint. The campaign resulted in 1,474 approved green auto loans and a $226,750 donation to TNC. 

“We are so grateful for OnPoint’s continued support of our mission,” said Derek Johnson, State Director of The Nature Conservancy in Oregon. “This generous contribution will help us further our progress in tackling urgent environmental challenges while strengthening Oregon’s natural defenses against climate change.”

Friends of Trees partners with local communities to plant trees creating a healthier environment for local communities. Friends of Trees has planted over 950,000 trees and native shrubs in neighborhoods and natural areas in Oregon and SW Washington since 1989. Friends of Trees contributes to a greener, more sustainable future through its planting efforts and fosters a deep connection between community members and their environment. 

“Our partnerships help make it possible to engage community members in tree planting projects in neighborhoods and natural areas throughout Oregon,” said Yashar Vasef, Executive Director for Friends of Trees. “OnPoint’s partnership and generous donation will bring people together to take real climate action in their communities.”

McKenzie River Trust has brought communities together to protect and restore western Oregon’s land and waters since 1989. The McKenzie River Trust has protected over 7,000 acres of special lands, conserving critical habitats for wildlife, clean water and natural landscapes while promoting a climate-resilient and sustainable future. The Trust works to reestablish native vegetation and natural water cycles to ensure these lands withstand and adapt to environmental changes. It also safeguards the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region and engages the community in sustainable practices, contributing significantly to a healthier planet.

“Partnering with organizations like OnPoint helps us achieve our mission to protect and care for Oregon’s lands and rivers,” said Elizabeth Goward, Community Engagement Manager for the Trust. “We are grateful for the supportive partnership and look forward to continuing our work protect important places, connect people to the outdoors, and ensure a vibrant future for the land, water, and people of western Oregon.”

Columbia Slough Watershed Council partners with community members to enhance the Columbia Slough and its watershed through community engagement, education and restoration. Columbia Slough Watershed Council has worked in response to rampant development and loss of open space to fight pollution since the early 1990s. A key component of their strategy is the Slough School program, which offers free environmental education to K-12 students. This initiative educates students about the ecosystem’s history and ecology through hands-on learning and fosters a sense of stewardship and connection to their local environment.

“Our goal is to ensure our urban watershed is rich in clean water and healthy habitats that support the needs of fish, wildlife, plants and people,” said Heather King, Executive Director for Columbia Slough Watershed Council. “Everything we do is made possible by community partners like OnPoint, and we are so grateful for their generosity and shared commitment to creating a cleaner environment.”

Increasing accessibility with auto and home special rate discounts

OnPoint’s Green Horizons offers special rate discounts for members to make going green more accessible. The Green Auto Discount offers 0.25%¹ Annual Percentage Rate (APR) off auto loan rates for new or used electric or hybrid vehicles financed through OnPoint. People in the market for electric or hybrid vehicles can also find additional incentives through Oregon, Washington and federal programs.

OnPoint’s Green Horizons also makes it more affordable for homeowners to produce their own solar electricity. When homeowners apply for an EquityFlex Line of Credit for home improvements, they can fix a portion of their line of credit for the purchase of solar panels and receive a 0.25%² discount off the EquityFlex Fixed Portion APR. Homeowners can find even more savings by looking at incentives and rebate programs in Oregon and Washington.

For more information about OnPoint’s investment in building a greener future, such as telecommuting programs, employee volunteer opportunities, and other donations to environmentally-focused organizations, please visit onpointcu.com/green-horizons.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 554,000 members and with assets of $9 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

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1. APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Vehicles meeting OnPoint’s Green Auto Discount standards receive a 0.25% discount off stated APR (Annual Percentage Rate). All OnPoint loans are subject to credit terms and approval. Discount does not apply to existing OnPoint auto loans.
2. Receive a 0.25% discount off stated EquityFlex Fixed Portion APR when proceeds are used to purchase solar panels. Review of purchase order or invoice required to qualify. Discount applies to invoice/purchase order amount, not to exceed $12,000. All OnPoint loans are subject to credit terms and approval.

04/22/24 Update: At about 7:20 a.m. on April 22nd, area residents spotted Dimmick in the 91800 block of Mill Creek Road and contacted the Lane County Sheriff's Office. Residents were able to observe and update Dispatch until deputies and Oregon State Police troopers arrived on scene. Dimmick attempted to hide in a port-a-potty, but surrendered after several minutes. He was arrested without further incident and transported to the Lane County Jail, where he was lodged on a Lane County Circuit Court warrant for Kidnap in the Second Degree, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Reckless Endangering. He was also charged for Elude by Vehicle and Elude by Foot from the earlier vehicle pursuit.  

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04/21/24 Update: Late in the evening of April 21st, Sheriff's deputies and a K9, Oregon State Police, and a Springfield Police K9 responded to a reported sighting of Dimmick at Terwilliger Hot Springs.  He was reportedly still armed with a sword and was asking for a ride to town. He was not located, and it is unknown if he was given a ride before law enforcement arrived. Anyone who encounters Dimmick is asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4150 option 1.

Thanks to the Oregon State Police and Springfield Police K9 for their assistance. 

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At about 11 a.m. on April 20^th, deputies and Oregon State Police troopers responded to the area of Terwilliger Hot Springs for a report of a disorderly subject swinging a sword around and inhaling nitrous oxide.  The subject left prior to their arrival, but was then observed driving back toward the hot springs.  A deputy attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle.  The driver attempted to elude the deputy up gravel Forest Service roads to the south.  They were able to identify the driver as Andrew Hamilton Dimmick, 33, of Crawfordsville, and determined he had several warrants for his arrest.  Eventually the vehicle stopped due to downed trees blocking the road, and Dimmick fled on foot.  A Sheriff’s K9 and two Eugene Police K9s responded and began searching the area along with a drone.  After several hours of searching in difficult terrain, they were unable to locate Dimmick.  

Dimmick is described as 6’4” tall, 175 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.  He was last seen wearing a green hoodie and blue shorts, and may still be armed with a sword.  If you observe a matching subject or have more information on this case, please contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4150 option 1.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Oregon State Police and Eugene Police K9s for their assistance on this call.  

Finding childcare is challenging for many parents in our area, and a lack of childcare can keep parents from being able to participate in the workplace. As part of its efforts to attract and keep a talented workforce, Lane County is partnering with local childcare provider Tip Tap Grow to help its employees access childcare. 

“We are one of many areas in Oregon considered a childcare desert,” said Lane County Chief Human Resources Officer Alana Holmes. “When we surveyed our employees last year, hundreds shared their concerns about being able to obtain childcare. This new partnership will not only support our employees and help Lane County remain an employer of choice, but also supports a growing local business.”

The partnership will allow County employees to be prioritized for up to 50 new spots at Tip Tap Grow for children between 6 weeks old and 6 years old. County employees will be responsible for paying the same tuition rates as other parents. Any of the 50 spots not used by a County employee will be available to the public.

In order to help Tip Tap Grow expand and offer these new placements, Lane County is providing an investment of $25,000 in the business. 

“This is a first for our agency,” said Holmes. “We hope to see other employers begin to invest in similar programs so that more parents have access to childcare.”

Tip Tap Grow celebrated with a ribbon cutting this past weekend and will open on May 1. 

About Tip Tap Grow

Tip Tap Grow is a childcare center with a unique performing arts model that supports the growth and development of children. It is also a recent recipient of a Seeding Justice Grant to help support its expansion. More information is available at www.tiptapgrow.com. 

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Salem, Oregon – Next week, 18-year-old Katie Lineburg of Hillsboro will embark on the greatest adventure of her lifetime. As Oregon’s 2024 champion, Lineburg will travel to Washington D.C. to compete in the Poetry Out Loud National Competition on Wednesday, May 1. Her D.C. itinerary also includes meetings with Oregon Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici and Sen. Jeff Merkley.

“I am so filled with thankfulness, anticipation and awe as I prepare for my trip to Washington D.C.,” said Lineburg. “This experience has been such a whirlwind of blessing, growth and new opportunities, and I will forever be grateful for the chance to represent my home state of Oregon as well as my school and everyone who has made this adventure of a lifetime possible as I compete at Poetry Out Loud nationals.”

A senior from St. Stephen’s Academy, Lineburg will compete in the national semifinals from 2 to 5 p.m. (PDT) on Wednesday, May 1. The competition will be live-streamed on the National Endowment for the Arts website. The top nine students will advance to the national finals at 4 p.m. (PDT) on Thursday, May 2, also to be live-streamed.

Lineburg is the oldest of five siblings who loves music and spending time with friends and family. She is a member of the St. Stephen’s Academy Festival Choir and loves poetry because “it allows her to connect with people and express emotions in a deeper way.” She has also loved public speaking since a very young age.

“The reading of poetry can transform the written word into a deeply felt shared experience,” said First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, who attended the Poetry Out Loud State Contest on March 9 at Salem Public Library. 

“Poetry Out Loud is a wonderful program that allows young people to connect with the human experience through the power of words,” First Lady Kotek Wilson added. “Congratulations to Katie Lineburg for representing Oregon in the national competition. We are all rooting for you!”

The poems Lineburg will perform for the national competition are "The Pulley" by George Herbert, "Beginning" by James Wright and “A Noiseless Spiker” by Walt Whitman.

Poetry Out Loud is a national recitation contest for high school students, organized in Oregon by the Oregon Arts Commission in collaboration with the NEA and the Poetry Foundation. Participants memorize and present poems, practicing public speaking skills while exploring the complexity of poetry.

See video of Lineburg performing and being announced as Oregon’s champion.

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

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

On Friday, April 19, at 4:11 p.m. Jefferson Fire District was dispatched to 15042 Jefferson-Highway 99E, Jefferson, Oregon.  This was a three-alarm fire.  Upon arrival the Incident Commander Louis Gisler reported there was a single-story house showing brown smoke.  The front window busted, and black smoke poured out of the window causing the fire to ramp up due to the ventilation from the widows.  The fire was contained to the property however an outbuilding did start to catch on fire along with the fence.  The firefighters were able to stop the fire on the outbuilding and fence. The house is at least 70 percent destroyed.  The owner and her dog were outside and safe. 

The owner was frying fish on the stove when she left the stove unattended.  She heard the smoke detector and quickly went to the kitchen where she saw the kitchen on fire.  She and her dog immediately ran out of the house and called 911. 

There were 12 firefighters from Jefferson along with Albany, Aumsville, Scio, Stayton, Sublimity and Turner who responded to the fire.  The fire was deemed under control at 5:26 p.m.  The firefighters continued to mop up for approximately and hour and half. There were no injuries.  The cause of the fire is due to the stove being left unattended where the grease had splattered and caused the fire. Jefferson Fire District would like to remind you please do not leave a stove unattended and check on a regular basis to make sure you have working smoke detectors.  Thank you to all those who responded to assist with this call.         

WHAT
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is hosting its eighth annual Oregon Prepared Conference for 500 emergency management professionals this Tuesday through Thursday in Sunriver.

WHO
Oregon Department of Emergency Management Director Erin McMahon and Deputy Director Patence Winningham will be available for interviews about the state of emergency management in Oregon. Media may also visit a workshop session for B-roll footage.

WHEN
Media Avail from 9:45-10:15 a.m., Tuesday, April 23

WHERE
Great Hall Conference Center
Sunriver Lodge
57081 Great Hall Loop, Sunriver, Oregon

WHY
The annual conference serves as a vital gathering for emergency management professionals, providing a forum for stakeholders from various sectors to exchange ideas, discuss current trends, and share information about the latest tools and technology in emergency management and homeland security. Attendees include partners with a role in preparedness, response, recovery and resilience from tribes, counties, cities, special districts, state and federal emergency management agencies, public safety and health preparedness sectors, non-profit organizations, and private sector businesses.

OTHER INFORMATION
Website: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop
Program: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop Program

SOCIAL
@oregonOEM on Facebook, X and LinkedIn

ONSITE MEDIA CONTACT
Chris Crabb (she/her)
OEM Public Affairs Officer
971-719-0089 (talk or text)
Please text upon arrival

Douglas County, Ore. 19 Apr. 24- On Friday, April 19, 2024, at 7:58 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 146, in Douglas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Jaguar F-Pace, operated by Paul William Jordison (23) of Rochester (WA), veered off the right-hand shoulder of the roadway for unknown reasons. The Jaguar left the roadway, traveled airborne for approximately 100 feet down an embankment, and struck a tree approximately 15 feet above the ground level before falling to the base of the tree.

The operator (Jordison) was declared deceased at the scene.

Before the crash, the Jaguar was reportedly driving at high speeds.

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by North Douglas County Fire and ODOT.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

Eugene, OR.  One person was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries following a single vehicle crash on River Rd near Horn Ln in Eugene Saturday afternoon.  Eugene Springfield Fire responded to the single vehicle rollover crash just before 5pm.  One occupant was assisted out of the vehicle prior to firefighters arrival. A Eugene Springfield Fire ambulance transported the occupant to an area hospital for evaluation. 

BOISE, Idaho — A change of command ceremony took place Saturday, April 20, for 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment at Orchard Combat Training Center in Idaho during the unit's one-weekend-a-month training duty.

Lt. Col. Jared Carpenter relinquished command to Lt. Col. Joshua Rapp in a traditional military ceremony presided over by Col. Peter Helzer, Commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

The 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, is headquartered in Southern Oregon and has over 150 years of service to the state, including deployments during World War II and recent mobilizations supporting the global war on terrorism.

"As someone who grew up in Southern Oregon, I am proud to have led a unit that has over 150 years of service to the state, including service in WWII and recent deployments in support of the global war on terrorism," said the outgoing commander, Lt. Col. Carpenter.

The incoming commander, Lt. Col. Rapp, emphasized the foundation of excellence in caring for soldiers and their families.

"In order for us to do anything to the best of our ability, we must first take care of ourselves, each other, and our families. That has to be the foundation of everything we do," Rapp said.

Col. Helzer praised the accomplishments of Lt. Col. Carpenter's tenure and expressed confidence in Lt. Col. Rapp's future leadership.

"The 1st of the 186th, the 'Guardians,' are a historical unit in Oregon. I'm incredibly proud of Lt. Col. Carpenter's work over the last two years, bringing us through COVID and transformation in preparing for large-scale mobilizations. I look forward to Lt. Col. Rapp's contributions and leadership as we move into the future, mobilizing parts across the Middle East and North Africa," Helzer said.

Lt. Col. Rapp will lead the Guardians, on a rotation deployment to the Sinai later this year. Lt. Col. Carpenter has been appointed to a leadership role in the Oregon National Guard's State Partnership Program working with partner nations Bangladesh and Vietnam.

                                                                                       -30-

Released Photos:

240420-Z-ZJ128-1001
Members of the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment stand in formation during the unit's change of command ceremony at Orchard Combat Training Center in Idaho on Saturday, April 20, 2024. Lt. Col. Joshua Rapp took command of the Southern Oregon-based battalion from Lt. Col. Jared Carpenter during the traditional military ceremony. 
(Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

240420-Z-ZJ128-1002
Lt. Col. Jared Carpenter stands at attention moments before relinquishing command during the change of command ceremony on April 20, 2024, at Orchard Combat Training Center in Idaho. Carpenter led the Southern Oregon-based battalion for two years before passing responsibility to Lt. Col. Joshua Rapp.
(Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

240420-Z-ZJ128-1003
Col. Peter Helzer, Commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, passes the guidon to Lt. Col. Joshua Rapp, incoming commander of the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, during a change of command ceremony Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Orchard Combat Training Center in Idaho. Rapp took command from Lt. Col. Jared Carpenter, who led the Southern Oregon-based battalion for the past two years. 
(Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

240420-Z-ZJ128-1004
Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Todd Plimpton presents a gift to Lt. Col. Jared Carpenter on behalf of the Guardian Regimental Association during the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment's change of command ceremony on April 20, 2024, at Orchard Combat Training Center. Plimpton honored Carpenter's "hard work and leadership" while commanding the Southern Oregon-based battalion for the past two years. 
(Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire (ESF) responded to a house fire at the intersection of N. Game Farm Rd and Old Coburg Rd in East Eugene Saturday morning.  Arriving firefighters found smoke and fire from a boarded up and abandoned home. 

The home had recently been determined unsafe during an inspection by Deputy Fire Marshals from the ESF Community Risk Reduction & Resilience Division.  In 2023 ESF initiated a new program where vacant and abandoned buildings are inspected and ordered boarded up & secured.  During these inspections, properties are declared Safe with a large green S, Caution with a large orange C or Unsafe with a large red U placard on the building.  In addition to inspection reports being available to responding crews, dispatchers are able to notify firefighters upon dispatch to a hazardous occupancy. 

In this response firefighters were notified the property had been determined to be unsafe and they took necessary precautions in engaging the fire.  Crews extinguished the fire and determined there were no victims during a search of the home.  There were no injuries reported and the fire is under investigation.

IDLEYLD PARK, Ore. - The body of Rachel Merchant-Ly has been recovered from the North Umpqua River today. 

On April 19, 2024, Douglas County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue organized a large scale search in their ongoing efforts to locate 27-year-old Rachel Merchant-Ly of Idleyld Park. Merchant-Ly was reported missing on Thursday, February 29, 2024, when she didn't arrive at Glide Elementary School where she worked as a kindergarten teacher. Later that morning, a Douglas County Sheriff's deputy located signs of a motor vehicle crash near milepost 41 on Highway 138E.

On Friday, March 1, 2024, Merchant-Ly's vehicle was recovered from the North Umpqua River, but she was not found inside.

Since that time, searchers have conducted numerous searches by water, land, and air without success. 

On April 19, 2024, searchers from Douglas County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue, Jackson County Search and Rescue and Lane County Search and Rescue organized to conduct further searching. Volunteer rafting groups and community members also organized and were coordinating with the Sheriff's Office efforts. 

At approximately 9:30 a.m., a community member volunteer located a deceased body in the river approximately 7.5 miles downstream from the crash site. Deputies confirmed the presence of the body and began coordinating recovery efforts. The Douglas County Medical Examiner's Office responded and confirmed the body to be that of Rachel Merchant-Ly. 

“I cannot thank the dedicated deputies, SAR Volunteers, agency partners and community members who have not given up on finding Rachel," Sheriff John Hanlin said. “Commissioner Freeman and I have been in personal communication with Rachel's husband, mother, father and extended family. They are extremely thankful for the efforts of everyone involved.”

The Sheriff's Office was assisted throughout the investigation by Douglas County, Jackson County and Lane County Search and Rescue teams, the Oregon State Search and Rescue Coordinator, Oregon State Police, Oregon Department of Transportation, Pacific Power, Weekly Brothers, North Umpqua Outfitters, Northwest Rafters Association, Douglas County Fire District #2 and all of the community members who volunteered their time.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 19, 2024

Notice of Virtual Meeting

Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC)

Behavioral Health and Housing Subcommittee

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

(Douglas County, OR) The next meeting for the Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council’s (LPSCC) – Behavioral Health and Housing Subcommittee will take place on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at 11:30 am via a virtual conference format.

In compliance with ORS 192.610 to 192.690, we will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to watch or listen to the meeting via video or by phone. For information on how you can watch or listen to this meeting, please see the agenda, or contact Koree Tate at ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov or call (541) 957-7790.

The meeting agenda is attached and can also be found at www.douglascountyor.gov.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: a.howell@douglascountyor.gov.">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Program Contact: Koree Tate, Programs and Partnership Coordinator | Douglas County Juvenile Department | Phone: (541) 957-7790 | Email: ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov

EUGENE, Ore. – A little over a year after being awarded the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE) Program Development Grant, Bushnell University celebrates substantial progress made in fortifying its commitment to guiding students on the path of theological reflection and vocational calling.

Among the 18 universities and colleges awarded the NetVUE grant in March 2023, Bushnell is distinguished as the lone representation for the West Coast. The NetVUE program includes a nationwide network of 300 colleges and universities and is specifically designed to support and enrich vocational exploration and discernment among undergraduate students. It is administered by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), with guidance from an advisory council comprising representatives from participating institutions.

Notably, this marks the university's seventh collaboration with NetVUE, showcasing a longstanding commitment to fostering vocational calling and exploration. The NetVUE grant, awarded in March 2023 and providing vital financial support until 2025, has been instrumental in the establishment and growth of Bushnell University's Vocation Institute. Over the past year, this institute has spearheaded pivotal staff and faculty related initiatives, supported by the NetVUE grant, that have become integral to the comprehensive approach to vocational exploration within the university community, both for students and employees. Key components of these efforts include retreats, departmental gatherings, and the development of a vocational discernment orientation course for new staff and faculty members.

Reflecting on the progress made, Dr. Reed Mueller, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Bushnell, expressed optimism and gratitude. "Receiving our seventh NetVUE grant is both an honor and a responsibility. The work in developing the institute this past year has been a testament to the power of intentional vocational guidance. This NetVUE program development grant has allowed us to not only strengthen our existing initiatives but also to create a culture where our new employees are encouraged to engage in thoughtful theological reflections on their vocation and calling, leading to enhanced engagement with our students and their vocational exploration."

As the Vocation Institute continues to evolve, Bushnell University remains committed to providing students with a supportive environment that nurtures purpose and meaning in their academic and career journeys. For more information about NetVUE, please visit NetVUE’s official website.

About NetVue
The Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE) is a nationwide network of 300 colleges and universities formed to support and enrich vocational exploration and discernment among undergraduate students. A program of the Council of Independent Colleges, NetVUE is supported by the generosity of Lilly Endowment Inc. and member dues. CIC administers NetVUE with guidance from an advisory council comprising representatives from participating institutions.

About Bushnell University
Founded in 1895 Bushnell University helps students discover and answer God’s call on their lives. Devoted to offering a Christ-centered environment, Bushnell encourages students to grow in wisdom, informed by faith, and leading to lives of service. Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the University was founded by pastor-educator Eugene C. Sanderson and pioneer businessman and church leader James A. Bushnell.

Bushnell is the largest private university in Eugene’s vibrant university district. The University offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees for undergraduate and graduate studies through course formats on campus, online, and hybrid formats. More information about the University is available at www.bushnell.edu.

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(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Caden R. Griffith, age 14, a child in foster care who went missing from Hillsboro on March 25. He is believed to be in danger.

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

Caden is often spends times in the parks of Hillsboro, Tigard and Aloha. 

Name: Caden R. Griffith
Pronouns: He/him
Date of birth: May 28, 2009
Height: 5-foot-6
Weight: 167 pounds
Hair: Brown
Eye color: Brown
Other identifying information: Caden often wears a black beanie. He was last seen wearing a black hoodie and black pants. 
Hillsboro Police Department #24-0007407
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2018671

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

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

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The Oregon Secretary of State's Elections Division will be hosting a pre-election conference call for members of the media on Tuesday, April 23rd, at 1 p.m. PDT. This briefing aims to provide crucial updates and information regarding the upcoming May closed primary.

During the 30-minute session, Secretary of State Communications Director Laura Kerns and Elections Division Director Molly Woon will deliver important insights and updates pertinent to the forthcoming primary. Moreover, there will be an allocated time for a question-and-answer session, enabling media representatives to express their informational needs for accurate election reporting.

Details of the Briefing:

• What: Pre-election informational briefing for media members
• When: Tuesday, April 23rd, 1:00 p.m. PDT
• Where: Conference call

RSVP Information:

Media representatives interested in attending are kindly requested to RSVP by replying to Laura Kerns, Communications Director, Oregon Secretary of State, at (971) 707-0313 or via email at laura.kerns@sos.oregon.gov.

Your participation and engagement are invaluable as the Oregon Secretary of State strives to ensure accurate and informed reporting on the upcoming primary.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: April 19th, 2024

Released by: Sergeant Kent Vander Kamp 

Crescent Lake, OR – 

On April 18th, 2024, at approximately 10:00PM, the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team, in collaboration with the US Drug Enforcement Administration, concluded a long-term investigation with the arrest of Mario Michael Fivecoats, age 35, and Rebecca Ann Toepher, age 31, both of La Pine, Oregon. 

During the investigation, drug agents identified Mario Fivecoats as a fentanyl trafficker in the south Deschutes County, Oregon, area. The initial investigation alleges Mr. Fivecoats imports fentanyl pills from Portland into central Oregon, where he distributed them throughout the Deschutes County community. 

Following an overnight multi-county surveillance operation, CODE Detectives, with the assistance of the Oregon State Police, stopped Mario Fivecoats and his passenger, Rebecca Toepher, in the Klamath County community of Crescent Lake while he was driving a 2009 Honda Civic. The traffic stop was made on Highway 58 at the Crescent Lake Junction. Also inside the car was Ms. Toepher's 6-year-old son. 

During the stop, CODE Drug K9 “Bonnie” alerted to the presence of a controlled substance coming from within the Honda. Using the investigative information, detectives applied for, obtained, and executed a search warrant from the Klamath County Circuit Court. 

While executing the search warrant, CODE Detectives gathered and seized a commercial quantity of fake pharmaceutical tablets made of fentanyl along with methamphetamine from within the Honda. 

Drug agents contacted Oregon DHS - Child Welfare to assist with caring for Ms. Toephfer's 6-year-old. DHS was able to contact and later released the young boy to responsible relatives. 

A “commercial quantity” is defined by statute as five grams or more of a mixture of a detectable amount of fentanyl substance conta or any substituted derivative of fentanyl as defined by the rules of the Oregon Board of Pharmacy. This is not a separate criminal charge, but rather an increase in the sentencing guidelines. 

The greater Portland area is a central transshipment hub where illegal drugs coming from the southwest border are stored in local warehouses, storage units, and residential properties. Bulk shipments of drugs are usually broken down into smaller quantities and transported to other states or distributed to local dealers. The Portland area has an international airport, interstate highways, and bus and train lines that make it easy for shipments to be smuggled to other destinations around the Pacific Northwest.

Recently DEA Administrator Anne Milgram said, “Fentanyl is the single deadliest drug threat our nation has ever encountered.  Fentanyl is everywhere.  From large metropolitan areas to rural America, no community is safe from this poison. We must take every opportunity to spread the word to prevent fentanyl-related overdose death and poisonings from claiming scores of American lives every day.”    

Mr. Fivecoats and Ms. Toepher were lodged in the Klamath County Sheriff’s Jail with the following criminal charges.

Unlawful Possession and Attempted Distribution of a Schedule II Controlled Substance (Fentanyl) 

Unlawful Possession and Attempted Distribution of Methamphetamine (Felony)

Endangering the Welfare of a Minor

CODE Detectives were assisted by the US Drug Enforcement Administration, Oregon State Police, Oregon DHS - Child Welfare, and Klamath County 9-1-1. 

CONTACT FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:   Sgt. Kent Vander Kamp, 541-550-4869 or kentv@deschutes.org 

The Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program and the following Central Oregon law enforcement agencies:  Bend Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Redmond Police Department,  Prineville Police Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Madras Police Department, Oregon State Police, Sunriver Police Department, Black Butte Police Department, United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Warm Springs Tribal Police Department, Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson County District Attorney’s, and the Oregon National Guard.

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement task forces to disrupt or dismantle local, multi-state and international drug trafficking organizations.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: April 18, 2024

Motorcyclist dies in early evening collision

Salem, Ore. — At approximately 6:10 p.m. this evening, the Salem Police Traffic Team responded to a single-vehicle collision on the offramp of the Center Street Bridge involving a motorcyclist.

The Traffic Team’s preliminary investigation indicates the rider of the motorcycle was traveling eastbound over the bridge. As the motorcyclist negotiated the sweeping right curve to proceed down the off-ramp, he lost control of the motorcycle and collided with the concrete barrier. The impact vaulted the rider across the barrier and approximately 30 feet down to the ground below the bridge.

The driver is identified as 27-year-old Mark Steven Sewell of Salem. Sewell was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The southbound off-ramp to Front ST NE was closed for approximately two-and-a-half hours while the collision was investigated.

To date in 2024, the Salem Police Department has responded to nine major traffic collisions resulting in nine deaths.

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At 1222 hrs on Thursday afternoon Douglas County Fire District No.2 and Winston-Dillard Fire District were dispatched to a reported structure fire on Carroll Street in Winston. The first fire crew to arrive on the scene took quick action to ensure that all of the occupants were out of the residence. 

Fire crews were able to stop the spread of the fire in a timely fashion with the use of a single hose line.  Unfortunately, the contents of the house suffered significant damage.

DCFD2 and WDFD responded to this incident with 2 fire engines, 1 ambulance and 2 command units with a total of 13 personnel. Crews were unable to determine a cause of the fire. Crews were assisted by Winston PD, Avista Gas, PP&L and Umpqua Valley Ambulance. 

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April 18, 2024

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

Latest Measure 110 data show new highs in client engagement with highest quarterly gains in substance use treatment, peer support services

SALEM, Ore. — Measure 110 Behavioral Health Resource Network providers reported increases in client engagement over all service areas, according to recently released quarterly reporting data.

As providers continue to establish and expand services, the most recent data revealed a 346 percent client gain in screening services since the program’s start – indicating that more providers are seeing new clients for the first time. Supported employment showed the highest overall percentage gain at 422 percent.

Client screening is an important first step for people seeking substance use treatment and recovery. As a result, network providers have reported increased numbers of people are accessing low-barrier treatment services and supports.

The latest data also show a 258 percent increase in people accessing peer services, in addition to other supports.  Many peer service providers reported meeting people in their homes or in community settings and using other measures to lower service barriers such as providing childcare and securing transportation to treatment.

Measure 110 network providers report the number of clients they serve and the number of encounters they have with their clients as a measure of overall engagement. Some clients may receive multiple services within a network or within multiple service networks.

The latest report covers network activities from July 1 through Sept. 30, 2023. Collectively, Measure 110 providers have now reported five quarters of data and expenditures from July 1, 2022, when the first network was established, through Sept. 30, 2023.

Overall, Measure 110 providers reported 267,000 encounters for people seeking peer support services and more than 220,000 encounters for substance use treatment over the 15 months of operations from July 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023.

OHA continually updates a comprehensive Measure 110 data reporting dashboard that includes quarterly data, expenditures, key demographic information, and aggregated narrative summaries for the 42 statewide service networks.

The dashboard also contains a section that shows how providers are conducting community outreach to directly connect individuals to services in their communities.

“Public awareness campaigns and community engagement activities play a pivotal role in dismantling social stigmas, misconceptions, and discrimination related to specific health services and conditions,” reported one provider. “By challenging and dispelling these stigmas, we empower individuals to seek care comfortably, which in turn, lowers the hurdles to accessing services.”

Other providers focused on reaching populations that historically have been under supported.  “Our peers and navigators have been able to do community outreach on a regular basis…with peer support referrals and health screenings,” reported one provider. “[Our] outreach focuses primarily on the houseless, unstably housed, incarcerated, transitional, and marginalized BIPOC communities.”

Another provider described the value of providing supported employment services to people in need. “The housing portion of our services has helped build tangible life skills as our tenants work to remodel and create a beautiful space while earning a paycheck.”

Despite the reported growth in service access, nearly one-third of providers continue to report challenges around building their workforce.

The deadline for the next round of reporting for expenditure and program data is in April and will cover the time from October 1 - December 30, 2023. OHA expects to publish that data in Summer 2024.

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

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

Their goal was to establish a more equitable health-based and effective approach to substance use disorder.

OHA is continuing to develop and sharpen strategic parameters around data collection, establishing standards for the type that is appropriate to collect, modifying internal systems and processes to capture data outcomes, metrics, and reducing administrative burden on providers.

The Measure 110 program continues to refine service data collection for communities of color and other disproportionately affected communities, as the networks transition toward implementing Race Ethnicity and Language Disability (REALD) standards in their data collection.

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Heavy wind and rain from winter storms cause trees to plunge into Oregon rivers. Trees become obstructions, a risk for all boaters, including paddlers, rafters, and drift boats. Some of these obstructions will become more dangerous as river levels drop, requiring boats to portage around the obstructions for safe navigation.

“We urge every boater to plan ahead. River conditions can change daily which is why checking river levels is critical. Always look downstream as you navigate allowing time to react and maneuver to the safest course,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board.

The Marine Board urges the following precautions:

• Visit the Marine Board’s Boating Obstructions Dashboard to view reported obstructions.
• Learn about and how to report obstructions you encounter while boating.
• Scout ahead and look for the safest route for each section of the river before committing. When in doubt, portage out.
• Stay clear of partially submerged trees and limbs. Strong currents can quickly carry you in, potentially leading to capsizing and entrapment.
• Wear a life jacket. Oregon’s waterways are cold year-round. Boaters are encouraged to wear a properly fitting life jacket and to dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
• If you’re using a Stand Up Paddleboard, be sure to wear a quick-release leash on moving water, especially in rivers where obstructions are present so you can disconnect from the board if you are drawn into one.
• Boat with others and stay within sight of one another. Do not separate far from one another so you can respond quickly to help.
• Know your limits and how to self-rescue. Be sure your skills and experience are equal to the river difficulty and the conditions.
• Fill out a float plan and let others know where you are boating and when to expect your return.

Visit Boat.Oregon.gov for everything you need to know about recreational boating in Oregon.

ASTORIA, Ore. — A giant 208-foot tall and estimated 200-year-old grand fir tree in Clatsop State Forest was inducted into the Oregon Heritage Tree Program in a ceremony April 12. The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and the Travel Information Council and its volunteer Oregon Heritage Tree Committee held the ceremony at the base of the tree which is part of ODF’s Northrup Creek Horse Camp Big Tree Trail at Northrup Creek Horse Camp. The grand fir became the 84^th Oregon Heritage Tree. 

“A heritage designation recognizes trees with statewide or national significance,” said Craig Leech, Chair of the Oregon Heritage Tree Committee. “The Oregon Heritage Tree Program is the first state-sponsored heritage tree program in the country. It was established in 1995 to increase public awareness of the important contribution of trees to Oregon’s history and the significant role they play in the quality of our daily lives.”

ODF created the Big Tree Trail in 2012 when they identified numerous large conifer and deciduous trees near one another.

“Inducting the Big Tree Trail as an Oregon Heritage Tree helps honor this special trail of trees that are believed to be among the top five largest in the state,” said Dan Goody, ODF’s District Forester for the Astoria District. “Visiting an Oregon Heritage Tree is a chance to learn localized Oregon history and honor the vital role Oregon’s forests plays in our lives. In addition to viewing a sample of exceptional trees, The Big Tree Trail’s connection to the creation of Oregon’s modern forestry program makes it particularly notable.”

The Northrup Creek Horse Camp Big Tree Trail is located inside what used to be The Northrup Creek Grazing Experiment. The Experiment started in 1936 to study the seeding, fertilizing, grazing, and management of logged-off and burned-over timberlands and the effects of grazing on reforestation. The goal was to make burnt-up land profitable again. The project was overseen by the John Jacob Astor Experiment Station outside of Astoria and continued until the early 1950s. 

The Experiment ultimately “failed” as it determined grazing was not the solution for burned over timber lands. However, in 1939 Governor Charles Sprague gave a stump speech in the area at the time he was actively promoting the State Forest Acquisition Act. The legislation included conservation requirements for loggers to re-seed the forest by leaving seed trees and reforestation efforts for burned areas, particularly those affected by the repeated Tillamook burns of 1933, 1939, and 1945.

Former Clatsop County Judge Guy Boyington, one of the original framers of the state forest arrangement, envisioned that the foreclosed lands could be made productive if forest land management was available. Clatsop County became the first county to participate. 

You can visit the Big Tree Trail inside the Northrup Creek Horse Camp, located between Jewell and Birkenfeld four miles north of Highway 202. The trail is just under one mile and is open year-round for hiking. Hikers must start at the gate during the seasonal closure of the camp, which adds two miles. The horse camp will open May 17. The address is 87644 Northrup Creek Road, Clatskanie, Oregon. 

For more information regarding the Heritage Tree program visit www.oregontic.com/oregon-heritage-trees. 

For more information on recreation opportunities in Oregon’s state forests visit Oregon Department of Forestry : Recreation : Recreation : State of Oregon

Funds include $10 million for developing early care and education facilities co-located with affordable housing

Salem, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) and BuildUp Oregon announce the launch of the OHCS Co-location Fund aimed at expanding access to early childhood education and affordable housing across Oregon.

“Families face a pile of cost burdens that limit their access to afford housing, and one of these burdens is the high cost of early childcare. These investments set out to change the trajectory for Oregon families, allowing for increased stability and a better quality of life,” says OHCS Director Andrea Bell.

BuildUp Oregon will administer the $10 million in OHCS funds allocated by the Oregon legislature through House Bill 5011 to support co-locating early care and education (ECE) facilities with affordable housing. 

These resources will help bring affordable housing developers and ECE providers together to open and expand childcare services within or on the grounds of affordable housing developments. The funding awarded will depend on each project's needs, size, and costs. 

Funds provided through BuildUp Oregon can be used for: 

• Technical assistance to ECE providers and affordable housing developers on how to co-locate 
• Relationship building between ECE providers and housing developers to identify potential collaboration opportunities and facilitate communication 
• Financial support to ECE providers and developers to build or expand operations within or adjacent to affordable housing developments 

The goal of the OHCS Co-location Fund is to create or preserve 600 ECE slots throughout Oregon. 

OHCS is a funding partner with Multnomah County for the BuildUp Oregon program. Earlier this month, Multnomah County launched the Preschool for All Facilities Fund. That fund offers comprehensive support to early care and education providers in Multnomah County participating in Preschool for All (PFA) who are looking to enhance the quality of care at existing facilities, expand to serve additional families or open a new location.

"The Facilities Fund will provide crucial support to early care and education providers and help build up the infrastructure we need to ensure universal access to preschool by 2030," said Preschool and Early Learning Division Director Leslee Barnes. "This initiative represents a vital step towards all children having access to high-quality childcare in safe and nurturing environments."

Interested developers and providers can learn more about BuildUp Oregon by visiting www.BuildUpOregon.org. BuildUp Oregon will also provide further information about the OHCS Co-location Fund through a webinar in May. Details and updates on the webinar will be available on BuildUp Oregon’s website. 

About BuildUp Oregon

BuildUp Oregon is composed of four Community Development Financial Institutions. Its members are Micro Enterprise Services of Oregon (MESO), Craft3, Network for Oregon Affordable Housing (NOAH), and Low-Income Investment Fund (LIIF). Together, these organizations are dedicated to ensuring equitable access to high-quality childcare and supporting the growth and development of early care and education providers.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) 

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

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PORTLAND, Ore.—The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon announced today that it will join 10 other U.S. Attorney’s Offices in establishing a multi-agency task force to address carjacking, an important public safety threat impacting communities in Oregon and beyond.

“We are pleased to join our Justice Department colleagues from across the country in taking this important, targeted step to address carjacking, a dangerous, violent crime. We thank all our law enforcement partners for their ongoing commitment to protecting Oregonians through this and other violent crime reduction efforts.” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

“The Justice Department has no higher priority than keeping our communities safe. We do so by targeting the most significant drivers of violent crime and by acting as a force multiplier for our state and local law enforcement partners. We’re seeing results — with violent crime declining broadly nationwide,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “Today, we are launching seven new carjacking task forces across the country to build on the success of task forces in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Tampa, where available data shows that carjacking rates are now falling. When prosecutors, officers, agents, and analysts come together to crunch data, share intelligence, and apply best practices, we can make real progress in the fight against all forms of violent crime, including carjacking.”

In keeping with the Justice Department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime, the District of Oregon carjacking task force will focus federal resources on identifying, investigating, and prosecuting individuals responsible for committing carjackings and related crimes throughout the state. 

Carjacking task forces have proven to be an effective part of successful violent crime reduction strategies by focusing on a significant driver of crime and taking violent offenders off the streets. For example, carjackings in Philadelphia declined by 31 percent from 2022 to 2023, and armed carjackings are down 28 percent in the District of Columbia so far this year compared to the same period in 2023. In Chicago, carjackings decreased 29 percent from their high in 2021 through the end of 2023.

Local efforts to combat carjacking have already produced positive results. On Tuesday, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a three-count indictment charging, Raheim Carter, 41, a Portland resident, with carjacking, using and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence, and illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. On March 15, 2024, Carter and an accomplice are alleged to have stolen a vehicle at gunpoint from a North Portland resident. Carter and the accomplice are alleged to have approached the victim while he was unloading groceries from his vehicle, demanded he hand over his keys at gunpoint, and drove off with the vehicle. The case was investigated by the Portland Police Bureau with assistance from the FBI.

The newly formed carjacking task forces will be led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices, the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) with state and local law enforcement partners.

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MONMOUTH, Ore. – The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees convened on April 16 and 17 to consider and approve several items, including the tuition & fees for the 2024-25 academic year.

The Tuition Advisory Committee, which includes students, staff, and faculty, submitted a proposed five percent tuition increase, which was accepted by President Jesse Peters and presented to the Board of Trustees on April 17. The trustees approved the five percent increase to resident undergraduate tuition and a 4.86 percent increase to nonresident undergraduate tuition. Graduate tuition will increase by five percent, and is assessed at the same rate regardless of residency. Summer 2024 tuition rates are included at the same rates as the 2024-25 academic year.

"We firmly believe that higher education should be accessible to all, and affordability is a cornerstone of our mission,” shares Board of Trustee Chair Betty Komp. “While a slight increase was necessary, it enables us to continue delivering quality education and support to our students, ensuring their success and fulfillment throughout their academic journey."

Western Oregon University remains among the most affordable public higher education institutions in Oregon, offering the second-lowest tuition rate in the state. Western is also a member of the Western Undergraduate Exchange, the largest regional interstate tuition savings program, where students from participating states can attend Western and pay no more than 150 percent of the in-state resident tuition rate. 

“Students choose Western because it’s a special place. We take pride in offering students a tailored educational experience, fostering a sense of belonging, and delivering quality support services,” said President Jesse Peters. “We have worked hard to maintain affordability without compromising the exceptional quality of education and services that define Western. This slight tuition increase reflects our dedication to sustaining the excellence that makes us truly extraordinary.”

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon's oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction.  Together we succeed.

https://wou.edu/2024/04/18/western-oregon-university-board-of-trustees-approves-tuition-increase/
 

ROSEBURG, Ore. - An adult male who had been in custody at the Douglas County Jail died at Mercy Medical Center on Monday.

On Monday, April 15, 2024, deputies in the jail found 33-year-old Derek Michael Ruh unconscious and unresponsive in his bunk. Deputies initiated resuscitative efforts and dialed 9-1-1 for an ambulance. Once EMS arrived on scene, they took over lifesaving efforts and transported Ruh to Mercy Medical Center. Ruh was later pronounced deceased at the hospital. 

The Douglas County Medical Examiner's Office is investigating the death. On Tuesday, April 16, 2024, an autopsy was conducted at the Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office. Full toxicological screening is pending, but Ruh's death is suspected to be the results of a drug overdose. 

Drug overdose deaths within the community have increased significantly over the past several years. Each overdose death is heartbreaking and has a profound impact on the lives lost and those who knew them.

"I send my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Ruh," Sheriff John Hanlin remarked.

Ruh had been taken into custody by the Roseburg Police Department on Sunday, April 14, 2024, shortly after 10:00 pm. He was being held at the Douglas County Jail on an arrest warrant out of Linn County.

SALEM, Ore. – April 18, 2024 – On April 13, President Joe Biden approved Governor Tina Kotek’s request for a federal major disaster declaration for severe winter storms, straight-line winds, landslides, and mudslides that occurred throughout the state from Jan. 10-22 (view a GIS StoryMap of the event).

The declaration will provide supplemental grant funding through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance program, a reimbursement program for public infrastructure damage and response costs to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations in designated counties impacted by the event. This disaster declaration covers Benton, Clackamas, Coos, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Multnomah, Sherman, Tillamook, and Wasco counties and the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.

FEMA Public Assistance is a supplementary financial assistance program for emergency work and the repair or replacement of public facilities and infrastructure damaged by the winter event. Financial assistance is available on a cost-sharing basis; reimbursement is 75% federal share of the eligible cost for emergency measures and permanent restoration costs and 25% is the applicant's responsibility. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (ODEM) administers the Public Assistance program in the state.

All eligible applicants with eligible projects within the designated counties and tribes can apply for public assistance. Eligible applicants include local governments, tribal governments, special districts, state agencies, and certain private nonprofits that have incurred costs for response activities or sustained facility damage as a direct result of the January event. Private nonprofits are those entities that provide a governmental type of service and have a 501(c), (d) or (e) tax exception status (see page 43 of the FEMA Public Assistance Program and Guide regarding eligible facilities and required documentation). Certain private nonprofits with damage to their facilities should apply for a U.S. Small Business Administration loan first.

ODEM and FEMA will work with each applicant to develop their projects, scope and costs that can be reimbursed. Potential applicants in the designated counties must complete a Request for Public Assistance in the FEMA Grants Portal by May 13.

The Major Disaster Declaration does not provide FEMA Individual Assistance and will not reimburse funds for repair or replacement costs by individuals to their property.

Learn more about the Public Assistance program at https://www.oregon.gov/oem/emresources/disasterassist/Pages/Public-Assistance.aspx.

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Captions

2024 January storm damage clean up in Linn County (courtesy Linn County).
2024 January storm damage to trees and power lines in Lane County (courtesy Lane Electric).
Oregon Department of Emergency Management Logo (white background).
Oregon Department of Emergency Management Logo (no background).
FEMA Logo (Horizontal).
FEMA Logo (Vertical).

Salem, Oregon - The State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council will meet at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. The meeting will take place remotely via the internet on Microsoft Teams and is open to the public. The agenda and handouts will be posted on the Council’s website.

What:    Meeting of the State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council  

When:   Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Where: Microsoft Teams (Click here to join the meeting)

Meeting ID: 259 221 087 88 Passcode: JyPqSX

Who:     State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council 

The State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council is established by Governor Kotek’s Executive Order 23-26, Establishing a State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council. 

The purpose of the Council is to recommend an action plan to guide awareness education, and usage of artificial intelligence in state government that aligns with the State’s policies, goals, and values and supports public servants to deliver customer service more efficiently and effectively. The recommended action plan shall include concrete executive actions, policies, and investments needed to leverage artificial intelligence while honoring transparency, privacy, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

Meetings of the State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council are open to the public. 

Public comment may be made during the meeting.  Sign-up for public comment is required as spots are limited. Sign-up closes Monday, April 22 at noon. Written comment will also be accepted. Written comment can be submitted by mail to the Council Support Office, 550 Airport Rd SE Suite C, Salem, OR 97301 or online.

Accommodations can be arranged for persons with disabilities, and alternate formats of printed material are available upon request. Please contact Enterprise Information Services at 503-378-3175 at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to request accommodations. Closed captioning is included on the Microsoft Teams meeting.

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Links

State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council webpage: https://www.oregon.gov/eis/Pages/ai-advisory-council.aspx

Executive Order 23-26: https://www.oregon.gov/gov/eo/eo-23-26.pdf

Meeting link: (https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/ap/t-59584e83/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fteams.microsoft.com%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%253ameeting_NDRmZjdkY2QtNTk0My00ODcxLWE3NjMtNTczODQwYmVlM2Uy%2540thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257b%2522Tid%2522%253a%2522aa3f6932-fa7c-47b4-a0ce-a598cad161cf%2522%252c%2522Oid%2522%253a%252234556cff-59ab-4761-8d66-f5c4ccec23c6%2522%257d&data=05%7C02%7CJessica.MADDOX%40das.oregon.gov%7Cd6650f0adfa94351bfa108dc5d6ca6ac%7Caa3f6932fa7c47b4a0cea598cad161cf%7C0%7C0%7C638487968427705959%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=piNCX%2BUreNnFcpCHLpY%2FtoJul%2FVU7OgApUabPW8teuM%3D&reserved=0)

Sign-up for public comment: https://forms.office.com/g/8NPeQbXRrA

Online comments submission:https://forms.office.com/g/5ecMVUWbbi

Part of the beauty of Oregon is the hiking opportunities throughout the state. Hiking can be a fun and healthy activity for the whole family. But without proper planning, even a short hike could turn into a dangerous situation. Before you hit the trails, remember these hiking safety tips.

1. Make a Gear List

Whether you're hiking for three hours or three days, you don't want to forget something important. Make a gear list to make sure you have everything you need. Some items to include on your gear list are: 

• Water
• Water filtration such as a filter straw or a filtration waterbottle
• Rain gear and additional climate-appropriate clothing
• Compass
• Map
• Extra food
• First aid supplies
• Cell phone or radio with backup batteries

2. Bring a Map

Bringing a map and becoming familiar with the area before you hike is so important. You should never rely solely on GPS technology especially with limited service and battery power. Always pack a map and make sure you know how to read it before you need it. 

3. Hike During the Day

Whenever possible, plan to hike during the day. It is easier to get lost in the dark and the area may be home to wild animals that come out at night. 

4. Know the Area

Exploring new hiking trails can be exciting. Unfortunately, it also means you're unfamiliar with the territory. Before heading out, check regional hiking information for:

• Local wild animals and what to do if you encounter them
• Local poisonous plants
• Local hunting areas and seasons
• Local hiking or emergency alerts

5. Check the Forecast

Check the forecast while planning your hike and keep checking it until you leave. This helps determine what gear you need to bring and greatly impacts your safety. Hiking in hotter or colder weather have different challenges that impact your trip and your health. If the forecast does predict rain, snow, or ice, be sure the trail you're taking is passable in these conditions. Consider contacting your local Parks and Recreation Department so they can direct you to real-time information. When in doubt, reschedule your hike for better weather.

6. Be Confident Not Cocky

You know what you can and can't handle. When hiking in a group or with a more advanced friend, you may take risks you aren't ready for. Don't risk injury; be honest with your skill level before hitting the trail. 

7. Tell Someone Before You Go

Tell someone when and where you are going and when they should expect you to be back. If that person doesn't hear from you by a certain time, they can take the necessary action to begin a search. With Search and Rescue missions, time matters. If you don’t make it home on time, having a friend that can report your planned hiking activity and timeline can help searchers locate you. 

8. Stay Together

When hiking with a large group, it's easy to separate into groups of fast and slow hikers. Often, this happens naturally, but it isn't always safe. Keep someone at the front that hikes at a modest pace to ensure everyone stays together.

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

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BURNS, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Forestry recently hosted the 2024 Rangeland Fire Protection Association Summit in Burns, Oregon. The annual summit provides a forum for the 28 Rangeland Fire Protection Associations (RFPAs) to meet with each other and partners in the spirit of helping each other be more effective at fighting wildfire on Oregon’s range. 

RFPAs are an integral part of the complete and coordinated wildfire protection system in Oregon. Oregon’s 28 rangeland associations across eastern Oregon provide initial attack response to wildfires on nearly 17.5 million acres of public and private ownership. Association members have a unique interest in suppressing wildfires since the lands they protect impact their livelihoods and those of their neighbors. 

During the summit the rangeland associations share information such as current membership, planned prevention and mitigation strategies, and lessons learned from the previous year’s wildfires. 

“The summit is an invaluable resource for association members and partners to advance wildfire suppression capability on Oregon’s rangeland, cropland, sage grouse habitat, and livestock forage that are crucial to the local economy,” said Allison Rayburn, ODF’s Rangeland Fire Coordinator.

An important part of the summit is the presentation of the Outstanding Neighbor Award, given to association members who are instrumental in supporting and growing their association. This year’s Outstanding Neighbor Award was presented to John O’Keeffe, president of the Warner Valley RFPA. O’Keeffe has represented local land interests and worked on ecological issues locally as a member of Oregon’s Wildfire Programs Advisory Council and the Oregon Cattleman’s Association, and nationally as a member of the Public Lands Council and National Wildland Fire Mitigation Management Commission.

“The people in this room are what makes this work. We want to have another generation, and another generation after that on the landscape and advocacy in far-away places is a large part of making that happen. I’ve been fortunate to have the local support to participate,” said O’Keeffe.

The history of RFPAs in Oregon started with legislation enacted in 1963 that allowed the formation of associations. In 1964, the Ironside RFPA was formed in northern Malheur County. For many years they were the lone association in the state. However, in 1998, a new era of RFPA interest emerged. Between 1998 and 2001, five additional RFPAs were formed and new associations have continued to form since then. There are currently 28 associations with over 1,200 volunteers. Association partner agencies include ODF, Bureau of Land Management, Oregon’s Office of the State Fire Marshal, Oregon State University Extension Service, county emergency managers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Natural Resources Conservation Service.

JCSO Case 24-2046

RURAL JACKSONVILLE, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives are investigating a suspicious death after skeletal remains were discovered Sunday, April 14 outside Jacksonville in the Applegate area. JCSO detectives and medical examiners responded to investigate. The rugged terrain and remote area required JCSO Search and Rescue (SAR) to assist in recovering the remains. Due to the ongoing investigation, the exact location will not be released at this time.

Investigators are working to identify the subject and the cause and manner of death. Due to the advanced stages of decomposition, state medical examiners will conduct additional testing. This case is under further investigation with detectives following additional leads. No more information is available at this time.

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On Wednesday, April 17^th, 2024, at around 6:50 AM, multiple Lincoln City Police Officers responded to the report of a single vehicle crash into a building located at 3026 NE Highway 101, later learning another vehicle had also been struck. Officers arrived and assisted North Lincoln Fire Department with securing the scene and initial medical evaluation of involved drivers. 

Officers investigated and learned that Marvin Noe Tojin Lopez, a 24-year-old male from Newport Oregon, had fallen asleep at the wheel, while driving home from working on a residential remodeling job all night. Tojin Lopez had been driving his Honda Accord southbound and initially struck a northbound Honda Pilot with such force, the Accord’s front driver’s side wheel was entirely removed from the vehicle. Following the initial impact, the Accord skid into the building. Tojin Lopez was transported to the hospital for further medical care. The driver of the Pilot reported no injuries on scene. Subsequently Tojin Lopez was issued citations for Driving without a License, Driving without Insurance, Careless Driving, and Failing to Wear a Seatbelt.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Drowsy Driving led to 684 deaths in 2021 and in 2017 accounted for 91,000 of our nation’s vehicle crashes. If you feel fatigued, your driving skills are probable impaired as well. Please pull over, take a short 20-minute nap, and reevalute.

The Lincoln City Police Department would like to thank the North Lincoln Fire Department, Pacific West Ambulance, Menefee and Car Care Towing for their quick responses, allowing officers to get the roadway reopened.

Submitted by: Sgt Erik Anderson

(Brownsville, Oregon) The Travel Information Council and its volunteer Oregon Heritage Tree Committee invite the public to participate in the induction of the Moyer House Linden Wisteria into the Oregon Heritage Tree program. The event will take place on Friday, April 26 at noon on the front grounds of the Historic Moyer House at 204 N Main St, Brownsville, Oregon 97327.

The Moyer House Linden / Wisteria, scientific name Tilia americana/ Wisteria floribunda, is the 83^rd Oregon Heritage Tree, a designation that recognizes trees with statewide or national significance. The linden tree is 90 inches in circumference and the wisteria vine 135 inches. The pair is approximately 55 ft tall and estimated to be 143 years old. 

Speakers at the event include representatives from Linn County Parks and Recreation and Craig Leech, chair of the Oregon Heritage Tree Committee. 

The Moyer House wisteria and its companion linden tree display a unique partnership that have become a landmark to the Brownsville community, as well as a unique addition to the Oregon Heritage Tree Program. The two were planted concurrently in the northeast corner of the Moyer House front garden as seen in historic photos starting in 1882. The tree and vine are entwined in one another with the wisteria relying on the linden for support. In the spring, wisteria blossoms are profuse, popping out everywhere amongst the linden branches. 

Elizabeth Brown (1841-1922) arrived in the Calapooia Valley via the 1846 Blakely-Brown wagon train, captained by her uncle James Blakely. John Moyer (1829-1904), a carpenter from Ohio, arrived by horseback in 1852 after a journey of just three months. The two married in 1857 and raised their children in a humbler home on the property where the much grander Moyer House now stands. John gained wealth in lumber, cattle, a sash and door factory, and early businesses investments. 

They built the showpiece 1881 Moyer House to display their success. Formal landscaping adorned the front garden, which included the linden and wisteria, facing Main Street. The tree and vine have grown to enormous size over the course of 142 years. The Moyer House was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 as an example of an Italianate home. 

“More than 130 years later, the two venerable specimens dominate the property, reflecting the passing seasons and reminding visitors of the impacts of the immense 1880s westward migration and subsequent transformation of the valley,” said Stacey Whaley, Linn County Parks Director. 

Oregon Heritage Tree Committee Chair Craig Leech encourages the public to visit the Moyer House Linden and wisteria. “Visiting an Oregon Heritage Tree is a chance to learn localized Oregon history and honor the vital role trees play in giving character to our urban spaces and building community pride. The Moyer House Linden / Wisteria has become a landmark in Brownsville and a unique addition to the Oregon Heritage Tree Program.”

The tree dedication will take place and noon and kick-off an afternoon open house at the historic Moyer House to honor the completed restoration of the home. Volunteers will be on hand from noon until 4pm to answer visitor questions about the house. The event is free and open to the public.  

The Moyer House Linden Wisteria can be viewed on city property at 204 N Main St, Brownsville, Oregon 97327. Tours of the interior of the house begin in the museum lobby at specific hours on Saturdays. Updated tour times and information can be found at: https://linnparks.com/museums/the-moyer-house/

The Oregon Heritage Tree Program is the first state-sponsored heritage tree program in the country. It was established in 1995 to increase public awareness of the important contribution of trees to Oregon’s history and the significant role they play in the quality of our daily life. The program is administered by the Oregon Travel Information Council and a committee of dedicated volunteers from across the state. For more information regarding the Heritage Tree program visit www.oregontic.com/oregon-heritage-trees. 

(Springfield, Ore.) – Nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services in Lane County have voted to authorize an open-ended strike against PeaceHealth to protest PeaceHealth’s unlawful unfair labor practices (ULPs) and reach a fair contract agreement that improves community healthcare.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents more than 90 frontline nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services. Nurses' latest strike vote was held April 12 - April 16. 

"Our community’s health care is eroding under our feet. PeaceHealth has cut our birth center, our sleep clinic, our home infusion services and our hospital. Now they are degrading the high quality home health and hospice services vulnerable patients rely on. Our community’s health care is in danger of disappearing completely if we don’t stand up and fight back. Our strike isn’t just about wages, benefits and ULPs; it’s about demanding dignity and respect for our community from a health system that consistently puts profits over people,” said Jo Turner, ONA bargaining unit chair and nurse at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services. “Anyone who’s tried to get healthcare lately can see that patients are suffering. Local nurses are running ourselves ragged trying to give our community the care it deserves but PeaceHealth executives have their heads stuck in the sand in Vancouver. It’s unbelievable that multimillionaire executives at a multibillion dollar company have turned their back on their mission to serve and care for our community. Your nurses are fighting to hold PeaceHealth’s corporate executives accountable.”   

Local home health and hospice nurses have endured 45+ contract bargaining sessions with PeaceHealth executives since Feb. 2023 including six sessions with a federal mediator. Nurses led a limited-duration strike on Feb. 10 - 24 to protect community health and safety, increase recruitment and retention, secure equitable pay and address the staffing crisis at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services.

Upon ending their limited duration strike and returning to mediation, PeaceHealth executives continued demanding nurses accept nearly 5% lower pay than PeaceHealth pays hospital nurses in Eugene/Springfield and hospital and home care nurses in Florence–despite both groups of home care nurses sharing managers and staff meetings and regularly caring for the same patients. PeaceHealth’s continued disrespect towards local nurses and their patients is driving nurses to leave–threatening our community’s health and exacerbating the care shortage. 

Since PeaceHealth let nurses’ contract expire last year, more than a quarter of home care nurses have quit. Another one-third of nurses plan to leave this year if PeaceHealth continues shortchanging patients and providers. 

“I voted yes to strike because I feel it is important for me to advocate for myself, my colleagues and my community. We deserve equal pay for equal work and our community needs a robust home care services team that can provide the care it needs. This fight is bigger than just myself and I am committed to standing firm against corporate greed,” said Cathy Smith, ONA member and nurse at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services. 

In a series of unfair labor practice charges, PeaceHealth is accused of waging a campaign of interference, intimidation and threats against nurses for exercising their rights; refusing to meet and bargain in good faith; and threatening to terminate health insurance for home care nurses and their families.

• Click here to learn about unfair labor practices. 

PeaceHealth also faces serious allegations from workers about its failure to properly care for local home health and hospice patients during a previous strike including missed care, cancellations, hospital readmissions and scab workers quitting.  

The community has rallied around its nurses over the past few months as patients, healthcare providers, elected officials, and community allies have joined strike lines and pickets and contacted PeaceHealth executives to show their support for local nurses.

“Nurses providing home care and hospice care are among the most important members of our health care workforce, serving on the frontlines of care for many of the most vulnerable and fragile people in our community. Their work allows patients to live in their homes with dignity while their medical needs are being addressed—and their work also allows patients and their families to face the end-of-life process with that same level of care and dignity. By giving these nurses our full support, we are in turn supporting those in our community who urgently need this type of care,” said Oregon House Speaker and Eugene resident Julie Fahey in a letter to PeaceHealth executives earlier this month. “These frontline workers deserve financial stability and safe working conditions, which will also protect their vulnerable patients. Our community deserves nothing less.” 

Nurses' strike vote authorizes the bargaining team to call a strike. If a strike is called, ONA will provide our community and PeaceHealth with a 10-day notice to allow PeaceHealth executives adequate time to connect patients to alternate care options or to join us at the table and reach a fair agreement. 

The next mediation session is scheduled for April 24. The nurse bargaining team intends to work towards a positive resolution but will call for a strike if they believe it is necessary to move PeaceHealth to meet the needs of patients, providers and our community.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Alyce Butrick.  

Alyce Butrick, age 15, is a child who went missing from Tigard on April 9. She was found April 16.  

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

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

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 17, 2024

CONTACT INFORMATION:
umenauer@employ.oregon.gov">Gail Krumenauer, State Employment Economist 
(971) 301-3771
Video and Audio available at 10 a.m.
David Cooke, Economist (971) 375-5288

Oregon’s Nonfarm Payroll Employment Rises by 1,400 in March

In March, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 1,400 jobs, following a revised gain of 2,800 jobs in February. March’s gains were largest in professional and business services (+2,400 jobs); government (+1,000); and wholesale trade (+600). Monthly declines were largest in construction (-2,300 jobs); retail trade (-600); and manufacturing (-600).

Hiring trends diverged during the first three months of the year. Several major industries expanded by at least 1,500 jobs, while others contracted. Health care and social assistance continued its rapid growth of the past two years with gains totaling 3,300 jobs during January, February, and March. Administrative and waste services added 2,700 jobs during those three months, which was an abrupt shift following this industry’s loss of 4,600 jobs during 2023. Government added 1,500 jobs so far this year as it continued its recovery and expansion of the past three years.

The industry that dropped the most during the first three months of the year was construction, which dropped by 3,300 jobs, following a relatively flat year in 2023 when it gained only 900 jobs. Meanwhile, accommodation and food services dropped 1,900 jobs so far this year, which nearly erased its gain of 2,000 jobs last year. 

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.2% in both February and March. Its rise from a record low of 3.4% in May 2023 is a sign of a loosening labor market. Another indicator of a loosening labor market was the rise in the number of Oregonians employed part time for economic reasons, which rose to 73,000 in March from a low of 48,200 in September 2022. 

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Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the March county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Tuesday, April 23, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for April on Wednesday, May 15.

April 17, 2024

Savor renowned artwork by Kiki Smith, Ann Hamilton, Matthew Day Jackson and Wangechi Mutu while exploring, “Near, Far, Gone: From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and his Family Foundation” 

BEND, OR — Step into a world where art, nature and humanity intersect in the captivating new exhibition Near, Far, Gone: From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation, opening at the High Desert Museum on April 20, 2024. 

Featuring extraordinary works by Kiki Smith, Ann Hamilton, Matthew Day Jackson and Wangechi Mutu, this exhibition explores the intricate relationship between humans, wildlife and the environment. With each piece drawing inspiration from the natural world, these acclaimed artists delve deep into themes of symbolism, allegory and human-animal connections. 

“We are thrilled to show the dynamic and thought-provoking works of Kiki Smith, Ann Hamilton, Matthew Day Jackson and Wangechi Mutu,” says Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D., “Through the diverse perspectives of these four acclaimed artists, Near, Far, Gone offers a profound meditation on the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world.”

Four of the pieces featured in Near, Far, Gone are from prominent German-born American artist,  Kiki Smith. Smith’s art often explores themes of embodiment and the natural world, drawing inspiration from a wide range of sources including folklore, religious iconography and scientific illustrations. Her work is characterized by its raw emotional power and intimate exploration of the human experience. Throughout her career, Smith has exhibited extensively internationally and has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to contemporary art. In 2006 Smith was recognized by TIME Magazine as one of the “Time 100: The People Who Shape Our World.” 

Smith’s featured pieces, titled “Pool of Tears II” “Fortune” “Carrier” and “Companions,” take inspiration from folklore and transform the natural world into an almost dreamlike reality. While viewing her work, visitors will have the opportunity to reflect on their relationships with animals—particularly those who act as close companions.

Another Near, Far, Gone featured artist, Ann Hamilton, is a highly respected American visual artist known for her immersive installations. Raised in Ohio, Hamilton studied textile design before earning her MFA in sculpture from the Yale School of Art. Hamilton uses everyday materials such as fabric, paper and sound to create experiential environments that engage the viewer on a profound emotional and intellectual level. Her art has been exhibited extensively worldwide, including prestigious institutions like the Guggenheim Museum and Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Venice Biennale. With her innovative creations, Hamilton continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art, inviting audiences to reconsider their perceptions of space, materiality and the human experience.

Hamilton’s Near, Far, Gone featured screenprint, Peregrine Falcon, is partially blurred suggesting a narrative of conservation and preservation success. In the United States, peregrine falcons are a clear conservation success story. In the 20^th century, they disappeared in high numbers due to the insecticide DDT, a chemical that poisoned their food and habitat. The federal government listed the falcon under the Endangered Species Act in 1973. Reintroduction programs and the banning of DDT have aided the bird’s comeback. Now delisted, peregrine falcon populations are stable. After exploring Near, Far, Gone, visitors may have the opportunity to meet a real peregrine falcon during the Museum’s Bird of Prey Encounter. Happening daily at 11:00 am, visitors can meet some of the non releasable raptors in the Museum’s care as wildlife staff explain their unique adaptions.

Matthew Day Jackson—another Near, Far, Gone featured artist—is celebrated for his diverse and thought-provoking work spanning sculpture, installation, painting, and video. Known for his meticulous craftsmanship and innovative use of materials, Jackson's pieces evoke a sense of wonder and contemplation, challenging viewers to confront the complexities of their existence. His work has been featured in major exhibitions worldwide, including a significant showcase at the Pace Gallery in New York City.

Twelve pieces by Jackson will hang in Near, Far, Gone, titled “There Will Come Soft Rains #1-#12.” In the creation of this series, he transformed 1930s copper plates [GU1] etched with Audubon's birds, adding vibrant colors and layers of images. The portfolio's title is drawn from Sara Teasdale's poem "There Will Come Soft Rains," evoking nature's resurgence after devastation. Jackson incorporated one stanza of the poem onto each plate. Notably, several birds depicted in the portfolio are now extinct or critically endangered, like the carrier pigeon and the ivory-billed woodpecker, due to human activities.

The final Near, Far, Gone featured artist is contemporary Kenyan-born American [GU2] artist Wangechi Mutu. In 2019, the Metropolitan Museum of Art debuted her groundbreaking exhibition The NewOnes, will free Us as its inaugural Facade Commission — a prestigious initiative inviting contemporary artists to create temporary installations for the museum's exterior facade. This innovative display marked a historic moment as Mutu’s four bronze sculptures, titled “The Seated I, II, III, and IV” took their place in the museum’s exterior niches which had been vacant for 117 years. [GU3] 

Mutu’s works in Near, Far, Gone titled “Seanimal I, II, III, and IV” merge animals with human and monster-like features, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. Through these fantastical creations, Mutu prompts contemplation on humanity's relationship with nature and the ethical implications of scientific specimen collection and preservation practices.

Through these 19 evocative works, visitors are prompted to contemplate the delicate balance of our coexistence with endangered, threatened and evolving animal species. As we witness creatures transition nearer or farther from human influence, Near, Far, Gone ignites a poignant dialogue about the survival of diverse species and the sustainability of our shared planet.

Near Far, Gone: From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation will be on exhibit at the High Desert Museum through September 8, 2024. It’s made possible by the Visit Central Oregon Future Fund and the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation with support from Republic Services, Tonkon Torp and Vista Capital Partners.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

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

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The Benton County District Attorney’s Victim Assistance Program is proud to announce a commemorative ceremony in honor of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, taking place on Monday, April 22, at 3:30 p.m. The event will be held at the Benton County Courthouse 3rd Floor Conference Room, and both the public and media are invited to attend.

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, observed from April 21 to April 27, 2024, serves as a reminder of the significance of providing support, options, and hope for those affected by crime. The theme for 2024 urges us all—friends, family members, neighbors, colleagues, community leaders, victim service providers, criminal justice practitioners, and health professionals—to reflect on our readiness to assist crime victims. 

“We must listen to survivors and be willing to create new options for support to ensure that all victims of crime can seek and receive justice. We must do everything we can to show survivors that hope – the belief the future will be better – is not just tangible but within their reach. National Crime Victims’ Rights Week encourages all people to ask themselves the question of how they would help the victim of a crime,” said Stephanie Rath, the victim assistance program manager for Benton County.

“To search deeper into these crucial questions and explore avenues of support, the Benton County District Attorney’s Office is encouraging community members to visit the Office for Victims of Crime website and explore the 2024 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Resource Guide. This comprehensive guide offers a wealth of resources, including outreach tools, sample materials for both traditional and social media, a historical overview of the crime victims’ rights movement, and original artwork designed to unite efforts nationwide. 

For more information about the Benton County District Attorney’s Victim Assistance Program ceremony or National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, please contact Stephanie Rath at ath@bentoncountyor.gov">stephanie.rath@bentoncountyor.gov (541) 766-6688.

PHOTO CAPTION: The Benton County Board of Commissioners has issued a proclamation in Benton County for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week from Apr. 21-27, and the Benton County District Attorney’s Office conducting a ceremony, on Apr. 22, at the Benton County Courthouse in Corvallis to promote victims’ rights and honor crime victims’ who advocate on their behalf. Flags outside the Historic Benton County Courthouse represent victimizations reported in Benton County.

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

The free Household Hazardous Waste Roundup will collect up to 35 gallons of household hazardous waste per customer on Saturday, April 27, in Oakridge. Hazardous waste from businesses, schools, churches, government agencies or non-profits may be subject to disposal fees and those organizations must pre-register for the event.

When:  Saturday, April 27, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

Where: Oakridge Fire Station, 47592 Highway 58, Oakridge

Who: All community members are welcome to participate in the roundup. 

What to bring:

Up to 35 gallons of paint, household cleaners, lawn and garden chemicals, car care products, arts and crafts products, pool chemicals, fluorescent lamps and other household hazardous waste. Check labels for words like flammable, corrosive, poison, caution, and danger.

Please don't bring: 

Empty containers, drums, radioactive or infectious waste, asbestos, pressurized cylinders, or explosives. Any empty containers can be safely thrown in the trash. For information about disposal of radioactive waste, asbestos or explosives call 541-682-3828.

What about hazardous waste from businesses?

Businesses that generate small amounts of hazardous waste may pre-register to bring that waste to this event. Businesses must pay for disposal of the waste, but most can save money by using this program rather than hiring a contractor. 

Electronics Recycling

The Cottage Grove, Creswell, Florence, Marcola, Oakridge, Rattlesnake, Veneta and Vida transfer stations accept the following items for free during normal operating hours: televisions, computer monitors, CPUs, printers, phones and laptops.  Maximum seven items per day. No commercial or floor-standing copiers, parts or dismantled units. 

Please call 541 682-4120 for more information about hazardous waste disposal for households or businesses.

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Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire crews responded to an RV fire in West Eugene on Ken Nielsen Rd near Hwy 126 at 7:20 Tuesday evening. Responding crews noted a large smoke column and requested an additional crew and water tender to support the operation.  The RV was a total loss, there were no injuries and the cause is under investigation.