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Eugene/Spring/Rose/Alb/Corv News Releases for Mon. Mar. 18 - 8:53 pm
Mon. 03/18/24
Roseburg Concert Chorale Presents Gabriel Faure's Requiem
Umpqua Community College - 03/18/24 5:27 PM

ROSEBURG, Ore., Mar. 18, 2024  – The Umpqua Community College Performing and Visual Arts and the Roseburg Concert Chorale will present Gabriel Faure’s Requiem on Friday, April 12 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 14 at 3:00 p.m. at Whipple Fine Arts Center on the UCC campus. The Roseburg Concert Chorale, under the direction of Dr. Jason Heald, will also be performing a variety of choral music ranging from 16th Century madrigals to selections by Cole Porter. 

Admission is at the door, $15.00 general admission, $10.00 seniors, and students are free. For more information, contact 541-440-4691 or music@umpqua.edu.

About Umpqua Community College
Nestled in the beautiful North Umpqua River Valley, Umpqua Community College is the regional center for higher education in Douglas County, Oregon. UCC provides high quality college degree programs, workforce development, and community learning opportunities. For more information, please visit us online at umpqua.edu.


03/12/24 - Lane County Sheriff's Search & Rescue solves a 20-year-old problem with an evening of high angle training (Photo)
Lane Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/18/24 4:14 PM
Drone View
Drone View
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/6111/170828/thumb_DJI_20240312171441_0002_W.JPG

Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue is always training.  Last week, they were able to train and help out our Oregon State Parks at the same time!  About 20 volunteers practiced rigging and operating our high and steep angle rescue systems at Heceta Head Lighthouse…to “rescue” a picnic table on the cliff below that has been an eyesore for 20 years. 

The rope rescue systems can be deployed quickly almost anywhere by just a few trained personnel, and have been used to rescue many injured swimmers and hikers.  But a picnic table was a first! The unique “patient” presented an excellent challenge for our problem solving and adaptability. The training provided as close to a real-world scenario as it could get – and a perfect view.

Nearly every week, Sheriff's Search & Rescue volunteers assist our residents in all types of environments. Learn more about our Search & Rescue program at www.lanecounty.org/government/county_departments/sheriff_s_office/volunteers/search_and_rescue.




Attached Media Files: Drone View , Cliff View , High Angle System

Former Federal Correctional Officer Sentenced to Federal Prison for Role in Bribery and Contraband Smuggling Scheme
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 03/18/24 3:39 PM

PORTLAND, Ore.—A former federal correctional officer in Oregon was sentenced to federal prison today for his role in a conspiracy to smuggle contraband into a federal prison in exchange for money.

Nickolas Carlos Herrera, 34, of McMinnville, Oregon, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

“Corruption by any public official or law enforcement officer is unacceptable. Mr. Herrera dishonored both himself and the law he swore to uphold, as well as the justice system he represents, by allowing a free flow of criminal activity in and out of the prison,” said Aubree M. Schwartz, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. “Today’s sentence should send a strong message to all who abuse their positions for personal gain: we will not accept corruption in any form, or at any level.”

“By smuggling drugs, a cell phone, and other contraband into FCI Sheridan, Herrera exchanged the safety and security of the entire institution for his own selfish gain. Today’s sentencing shows that correctional officers who accept bribes and bring contraband into federal prisons will be held accountable for their crimes,” said Zachary Shroyer, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Western Region.

According to court documents, from April 2015 until he was placed on administrative leave in December 2019, Herrera was employed as a correctional officer at the Federal Correctional Institution in Sheridan, Oregon, a medium security federal prison. Herrera used his position to introduce contraband into the facility for the benefit of select inmates, including Donte Hunt, 40, of Portland, who at the time was in custody pending trial on federal drug, gun, and money laundering charges. In the spring of 2019, Herrera started bringing contraband items such as food, clothing, and cigarettes into the facility, which he gave to Hunt.

Later, Herrera brought Hunt marijuana; Suboxone, a Schedule III narcotic; Yeezy brand designer sneakers; and a cell phone. Herrera obtained the items from Elizabeth McIntosh, 34, a non-incarcerated associate of Hunt’s. On at least one occasion, Herrera allowed Hunt to use a staff phone at the prison to call McIntosh to arrange the delivery of contraband to Herrera. Herrera met McIntosh on multiple occasions to obtain items for Hunt and accepted payment from her on Hunt’s behalf.

On September 24, 2020, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Herrera, Hunt, and McIntosh with conspiracy and bribing a public official. Herrera and Hunt were also charged with providing contraband in prison.

On May 19, 2022, Herrera pleaded guilty to conspiracy, providing contraband in prison, and accepting a bribe as a public official.

On December 18, 2023, Hunt pleaded guilty to conspiracy and bribing a public official. He was sentenced today to 15 months in federal prison to be served concurrently with a 300-month sentence previously imposed from his underlying criminal case.

On November 29, 2023, McIntosh pleaded guilty to a one-count criminal information charging her with misprision of felony and, on February 13, 2023, she was sentenced to one year of probation.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Department of Justice Office of Inspector General with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Prisons, Portland Police Bureau, and IRS-Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Ethan Knight and Katherine Rykken, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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Attached Media Files: PDF Release

Western Oregon University celebrates successful Giving Day (Photo)
Western Oregon University - 03/18/24 2:14 PM
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MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s annual Giving Day, Howl from the Heart, held on March 5, saw great engagement.. With 696 donors giving to nearly 60 funds, Giving Day raised $208,406  as of Friday, March 15. These funds will support scholarships, campus clubs, student organizations, academic programs, and athletics.

Gifts were received from 26 states and Washington, D.C.  on Giving Day. The top three funds to receive gifts were the Fund for WOU, Volleyball, and Men’s Soccer, with a combined total of 273 gifts. 
 

Western also launched its first-ever Giving Day service project at Heron Pointe Senior Living Center in Monmouth. Students spent the afternoon of Giving Day socializing and playing games with the residents. 
 

“This year’s Giving Day once again proved the commitment and dedication to student success from our generous donors,” says Dave Beasley, director of annual giving at the WOU  Foundation. “We are immensely grateful for each gift we received, and we are excited about the bright future such gifts will make possible at Western.”
 

Falling on the first Tuesday in March, Western’s annual day of giving has encouraged alumni, friends, parents, faculty, and staff to support areas of need across campus that positively impact students. Since 2016, donors have contributed more than $1.5 million on Giving Day to benefit the Western community.

Learn more about supporting Western and its students. 

 

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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/2024/03/18/western-oregon-university-celebrates-successful-giving-day/




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1107/170824/Giving_Day.png

Pacific Power launches fleet make-ready pilot program to help transition to sustainable transportation
Pacific Power - 03/18/24 1:57 PM

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018 

Newsroom

 

 Pacific Power launches fleet make-ready pilot program to help transition to sustainable transportation

Tailor-made incentives and technical assistance offered for charging infrastructure to support fleet electric vehicles

 

PORTLAND, Ore. (Mar 18, 2024) Pacific Power is offering the "fleet make-ready” pilot program to help non-residential customers across Oregon transition to cost-saving clean transportation.   

The program is designed to connect local communities with the benefits of electric vehicles. It provides financial support and technical assistance to enable non-residential customers to transition their fleets to electric vehicles. Find more details here: PacificPower.net/Fleet

Pacific Power non-residential customers with a fleet of at least two EVs (owned, purchased or leased) within the pilot period can receive advisory services and tailor-made incentives to support the design and construction costs associated with behind-the-meter EV charging infrastructure. Eligible participants can receive incentives covering project design, engineering, permitting and construction costs for their electrical infrastructure and the installation of electric vehicle service equipment (not including actual chargers). The program also offers technical assistance through an on-site feasibility analysis and customized technical fleet advice to help evaluate available options and costs.

Check your eligibility to apply: PacificPower.net/Fleet

“Pacific Power will continue to work toward attaining a sustainable future for the state. We’re committed to supporting our diverse communities in Oregon by providing programs and options for customers to plug in to the benefits of clean transportation while reducing their environmental footprints and contributing to improved air quality,” said Kate Hawley, electric transportation senior product manager for Pacific Power. “Through this program, we aim to minimize the barriers and offer easier and affordable ways to make the switch to electric vehicles.”  

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 About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to more than 8000,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, natural gas, coal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.


Oregon Workers' Compensation Division to host 21st annual educational conference May 9-10 in Portland
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 03/18/24 1:45 PM

March 18, 2024

Salem – The Oregon Workers’ Compensation Division (WCD) is hosting a conference May 9-10 for employers, insurers, attorneys, medical providers, union representatives, safety and human resource managers, and vocational assistance providers to gain knowledge, engage in professional networking, and refresh their skills about the workers’ compensation system. Anyone with a professional interest in the workers’ compensation system will benefit from this event.

The 21st Workers’ Compensation Educational Conference will be held at the Holiday Inn Portland – Columbia Riverfront, 909 N. Hayden Island Drive.

Conference topics include claim filing and dispute resolution to return-to-work programs and mental health in the workplace.

WCD, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, is hosting the conference with the International Workers’ Compensation Foundation.

On Friday, May 10, the conference will feature a keynote panel discussion with Sydney Montanaro, a worker attorney with Thomas, Coon, Newton, & Frost; and Lauren Oda, an employer and insurer attorney with SBH Legal. 

The panel, moderated by WCD Resolution Section Manager Kirsten Schrock, will explore common situations in workers’ compensation and provide the speakers’ own unique outlook. Each panelist will share their views based on the experience of representing their clients, offering different perspectives, as well as areas of common interest.

The conference, which includes breakfast, lunch, and exhibits, offers many workplace safety and health topics. They include:

  • Case law updates from the Oregon Workers’ Compensation Board
  • A session covering workers’ compensation basics 
  • An overview of Oregon’s nationally recognized return-to-work programs and the benefits to employers, insurers, and injured workers
  • Oregon legislative update
  • Progress report on the WCD Modernization program
  • Workplace recordkeeping and reporting
  • Worksite modification
  • “Total Worker Health,” presented by Oregon Health and Science University
  • A deep dive into first payment of temporary disability 
  • A specialized fleet training to reduce risky driving
  • Sanctions education, new civil penalty overview, and how to avoid penalties

The Workers’ Compensation Educational Conference also features a special networking event at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 9, at the host hotel. The event invites attendees to meet workers’ compensation professionals in the region. Light refreshments will be served. 

Registration for the two-day event is $325 until April 1. After April 1, the cost of registration increases to $400. Register at https://workcompevent.com/oregon/oregon-workers-compensation-conference-2024. For more information about WCD conferences, go online, send an email to .l.hlad@dcbs.oregon.gov">jennifer.l.hlad@dcbs.oregon.gov, or call 971-719-6023.

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#OregonWCD

The Workers’ Compensation Division, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, administers and regulates the state's workers’ compensation laws and rules. For more information, go to wcd.oregon.gov.

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit dcbs.oregon.gov. 


INTERVIEWS: Doctor's Advice for Early Allergy Season (Photo)
Kaiser Permanente Northwest - 03/18/24 1:00 PM
2024-03/5557/170813/spring-allergies-kaiser-permanente.jpg
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Portland, Ore. (March 19, 2024) – With the arrival of spring this Tuesday, Portland has already seen heightened pollen counts that signal an early allergy season. Climate change is playing a role in lengthening allergy seasons and intensifying pollen levels, creating increasing challenges for allergy sufferers. Dr. Mark Chan, Allergy and Immunology Specialist with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, offers advice on how to prepare for the early allergy season in Oregon and understand its potential health implications.

“The early onset of allergy season in Portland raises concerns for those prone to seasonal allergies,” said Dr. Chan. “Itchy, watery eyes; itchy, runny nose and sneezing are the most common and uncomfortable symptoms, but there are preventive measures you can take to manage allergies more effectively. Simple things like closing your windows, changing your clothes when you come in from outdoors, and even just showering and washing your hands can help a lot.”

It’s also important to know how to differentiate between allergy symptoms and signs of illness, like COVID-19, RSV, the flu or a common cold, as many of the symptoms overlap. “Respiratory illnesses and seasonal allergies are getting harder to differentiate,” said Dr. Chan. “For example, runny nose and sore throat are common with the COVID-19 and with allergies. But there are several symptoms more closely associated with respiratory illness that you can watch for.”

In addition to offering clues on determining if you have allergies, COVID or a common cold, Dr. Chan says there are measures you can take to help reduce your spring allergy symptoms, such as closing your windows, changing your clothes when you come in from outdoors, and - pro tip - wearing your mask, which will help prevent allergies and reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19 at the same time.

Interviews available
Mark Chan, MD, Allergy and Immunology Specialist with Kaiser Permanente in Portland, Ore., is available for Zoom interviews with media from 11:15 a.m.-noon on Tuesday, March 19. Contact en.a.vitt@kp.org">Karen Vitt to schedule.

Dr. Chan is prepared to discuss:
• Why Portland is seeing an early allergy season
• How to reduce your spring allergies and minimize health risks
• Which symptoms are common, and which are more worrisome
• Symptoms of allergies vs. respiratory illness and clues to tell the difference
• When you should speak to your health care provider.

ABOUT KAISER PERMANENTE 
Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and nonprofit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.5 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/5557/170813/spring-allergies-kaiser-permanente.jpg

MEDIA ADVISORY ONLY - March 20 - Celebration Commemorates Transfer of Queen of Angels Monastery Ownership to Catholic Community Services (Photo)
VanNatta Public Relations - 03/18/24 12:30 PM
\Sister Jane Hibbard, SNJM (left) and Josh Graves (right)
\Sister Jane Hibbard, SNJM (left) and Josh Graves (right)
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1853/170816/thumb_Sister_Jane_Hibbard_SNJM_(left)_and_Josh_Graves_(right).jpg

What:  This event celebrates the historic, ceremonial transfer of ownership of the Queen of Angels Monastery in Mt. Angel, Oregon (the historic home of the Benedictine Sisters of Mt. Angel) to Catholic Community Services (CCS) of the Mid-Willamette Valley and Central Coast. This transfer of ownership will preserve the monastery's rich heritage and bolster community service programs founded by the sisters and now operated by CCS.

Please note: Attendance is by invitation only, and event details are not for publication prior to the event. Media representatives are invited to attend.

When: Wed. March 20, 2024 - 2:00-4:00 pm 

Where: Queen of Angels Monastery, 840 S Main St, Mt Angel, OR 97362

  • Prayer and Transfer Ceremony at the Chapel
  • Reception and listening session at Agatha Hall (downstairs from the Chapel)

Who: The Benedictine Sisters of Mount Angel and Catholic Community Services of the Mid-Willamette Valley and Central Coast (CCS)

Format: Prayer Service in the Monastery Chapel followed by a reception and listening session

  • Selected readings and comments from the Benedictine Sisters
  • Blessings, hymns, and intercessory prayers
  • A symbolic exchange of gifts between the Benedictine Sisters and Catholic Community Services (CCS board members, CEO Josh Graves)
  • Dismissal to Agatha Hall (downstairs). Special recognition presentation.
  • Guests will sit at tables with facilitators and have the opportunity to share their experiences and thoughts related to the monastery

Visuals/Photo op:

  • Pictures of beautiful Mt. Angel Monastery
  • Prayer service and transfer ceremony
  • Sisters from The Benedictine Sisters of Mount Angel and Representatives from Catholic Community Services of the Mid-Willamette Valley and Central Coast (CCS).
  • Guests at a reception, sharing thoughts with facilitators at each table.

Interview Opportunities:

  • Josh Graves, CEO, Catholic Community Services
  • Sister Jane Hibbard, SNJM, Queen of Angels Monastery

About the Benedictine Sisters and the Queen of Angels Monastery

The Benedictine Sisters of Mt. Angel are a Catholic religious community which was established in Oregon in 1882. Queen of Angels Monastery, the Sisters' historic home, dates to 1887. The Sisters' major ministries are hospitality, prayer, service to the local community, and Shalom at the Monastery, a retreat and spiritual renewal center. At present, the Benedictine Sisters have 19 professed members (nuns) and 80 oblates (non-professed members).

About Catholic Community Services of the Mid-Willamette Valley

Catholic Community Services of the Mid-Willamette Valley and Central Coast (CCS) is a non-profit, faith-based organization. Founded in Salem in 1938, today, CCS offers 11 programs across 10 Oregon counties and serves more than 5,000 people each year. They operate with fidelity to the Principles of Catholic Social Teaching, which call them to work for the common good and to serve their neighbors who are the poorest and most vulnerable. CCS envisions a caring, resilient community full of hope and connection where all people flourish.

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Background:

On Dec. 27 , 2023, the Benedictine Sisters of Mount Angel and Catholic Community Services of the Mid-Willamette Valley and Central Coast (CCS) today announced the official closing of the sale of Queen of Angels Monastery in Mt. Angel to CCS. The monastery, built in 1888, has been the home of the Benedictine Sisters as well as their central offices from which they undertook an

impressive number of endeavors for the greater good, including the Shalom at the Monastery retreat ministry, the Benedictine Nursing Center next door, and St. Joseph Shelter/Mission Benedict across the street. (https://www.benedictine-srs.org/our-history)

The Sisters, who have moved to the Providence Benedictine Nursing Center's Orchard House next door, will continue to have offices in the monastery and will help guide and sustain St. Joseph Shelter and Mission Benedict, ministries which they founded in 1988. The Sisters transferred day-to-day operations of these ministries to CCS in 2017.

A formal transfer ceremony is planned for March 20, 2024, during which CCS, the Benedictine Sisters and guests will come together to pray, celebrate and share hopes and dreams for the future of the monastery.

"The Benedictine Sisters have owned the historic monastery and grounds of Queen of Angels Monastery since 1887 when they purchased the property from Mount Angel Abbey. The sisters have shared their monastic buildings and grounds in ministry to countless guests, students, oblates, retreatants, family, and friends. Now the Benedictine Sisters entrust the mission and use of it to Catholic Community Services," said Sister Jane Hibbard, Pastoral Administrator of the Benedictine Sisters. "The sisters look forward to seeing what develops and also promise to pray daily for what will emerge for the future use of the buildings and property. They are deeply grateful for the partnership with and commitment of CCS to the people of Mount Angel, Marion County, and beyond, as well as to the many people who continue to support the Benedictine Sisters."

"We are honored and humbled by the confidence the Sisters have placed in us, and we look forward to our continued partnership to sustain the ministries they founded and to preserve the monastery as a place of hope and healing," said CCS Chief Executive Officer Josh Graves.




Attached Media Files: \Sister Jane Hibbard, SNJM (left) and Josh Graves (right) , BendictineSistersLogo , CCSLogo , Queen of Angels Monastery in Mt. Angel, Oregon2 , Queen of Angels Monastery in Mt. Angel, Oregon

Media Advisory: Oregon Employment Department to host Media Briefing March 20, 2024
Oregon Employment Department - 03/18/24 11:43 AM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
March 18, 2024 

Media Contact:  
Communications@employ.oregon.gov   


MEDIA ADVISORY 

Oregon Employment Department to Host  
Media Briefing Wednesday, March 20, 1 p.m. 
 

WHO:                 Karen Madden Humelbaugh, Paid Leave Oregon director; Lindsi Leahy, Unemployment Insurance director; David Gerstenfeld, Oregon Employment Department director 

WHEN:             Wednesday, 1 p.m., March 20, 2024 

WHAT:              The Oregon Employment Department is hosting a video-conference media briefing to share data from the Paid Leave Oregon program and updates on the rollout of Unemployment Insurance benefits in Frances Online.  

WHERE:          Via Zoom video conference: Members of the media must RSVP by emailing Communications@employ.oregon.gov by noon on Wednesday, March 20. We will provide video conference login information to all reporters who RSVP. RSVPs must indicate if the reporter wants to ask a question of the presenters. 
 
After the briefing concludes, we will email the link to the video recording to reporters who RSVP’d. 

OTHER:           The Oregon Employment Department updates its agency dashboard each week. Visit oregon.gov/employ/NewsAndMedia for our latest news releases, video and audio clips, and the latest data for Unemployment Insurance, WorkSource Oregon, and Paid Leave Oregon.  

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The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/930/170815/3.20_Briefing_Advisory.pdf

03-18-24 Public Meeting Notice - PIER Review and Presentations
Douglas Co. Government - 03/18/24 10:10 AM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

March 18, 2024

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Douglas County PIER Disaster Recovery Grant Program

Grant Review and Applicant Presentations

Monday, March 25, 2024

 

(Douglas County, Ore.) The Douglas County Board of Commissioners Chris Boice, Tim Freeman, and Tom Kress, in conjunction with the Douglas County PIER Selection Committee are pleased to inform the public that a special meeting has been scheduled for the Douglas County Planning, Infrastructure, and Economic Revitalization Program (PIER) Disaster Grant Program for Monday, March 25, 2024, starting at 2:00 pm in Room 216 of the Douglas County Courthouse located at 1036 SE Douglas Avenue in Roseburg, Oregon. The public meeting will consist of a local PIER committee review, selected finalist applicant presentations, and a public comment period. 

 

Douglas County PIER grant finalists include the City of Sutherlin, Glide Water Association, City of Oakland, Cow Creek Tribe, and the Winston-Dillard Water District.  The Douglas County Pier Selection Committee is comprised of representatives from local government (Douglas County), local tribal government (Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians), the Economic Development District (CCD), and local Long Term Recovery Group (Glide Revitalization).  As a part of the review process, requirements from the funder Oregon Housing and Community Services Department (OCHS), this meeting has been scheduled to offer an opportunity to comment on the proposed projects.   

 

In compliance with ORS 192.610-690, we will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to watch the meeting via live stream or post meeting recording at https://video.ibm.com/channel/douglascountyoregon. We will also accommodate any member of the public who wishes to submit public comment during the public comment period. Members of the public who wish to comment can do so: (1) in person, (2) by email .miller@douglascountyor.gov">jennifer.miller@douglascountyor.gov or (3) by virtual format https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89925996777?pwd=9fvSNClmrhEXQPbxe0KRrNzcFFPbZA.1 using Meeting ID: 899 2599 6777 and Passcode: 007665. 

 

The PIER grant program is part of ReOregon, a program offered by the Disaster Recovery and Resilience Division (DRRD) of OCHS. ReOregon is funded by a US Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant (CDBG-DR). The CDBG-DR program supports community development activities to help build stronger and more resilient communities. As a part of the disaster recovery process, ReOregon awarded PIER opportunity grants to the eight most impacted counties in Oregon to fund projects to rebuild damaged infrastructure, increase resiliency, and promote long-term housing recovery and recovery of local businesses impacted by the 2020 Labor Day Fires.

 

Following the meeting, Douglas County PIER Selection Committee members will make recommendations for proposals based on the PIER project matrix criteria as provided by OHCS. The recommendations will be submitted to OHCS for final review and processing.  We anticipate announcing grant awards in early April 2024.

 

For PIER program general information visit OHCS at https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/disaster-recovery/Pages/ReOregon-Community-Recovery.aspx.  For additional information about our local PIER Grant Program  please visit https://douglascountyor.gov/872/Douglas-County-PIER-Disaster-Recovery-Gr.  

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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

 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6789/170812/03-18-24_DC_PIER_Grant_Program_Meeting_Agenda_Rev.pdf

Road Closure: Office Covered Bridge (Westfir)
Lane Co. Government - 03/18/24 9:52 AM
Road Name:Old Mill Road
Location:Office Covered Bridge
Begin Closure:Milepost 0.00
End Closure:Milepost 0.09
Dates and times:Saturday, March 30, 2024,  8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Alternate routes:

 

None
Reason for closure:City of Westfir Easter Egg Hunt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Firefighters Respond To Eugene Apartment Fire (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/18/24 6:29 AM
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Eugene, OR. At approx 530 am on 3/18, Eugene Springfield Fire (ESF) responded to a reported apartment fire at Boulders on the River on Valley River Way. Neighbors noticed smoke from the apartment and attempted to notify residents. ESF Valley River Engine company 9, stationed next door, responded as part of a full fire response of 4 engines, 2 ladder trucks, 2 chiefs , an ambulance and EMS supervisor. They quickly located the fire apartment, made access with a hoseline, and extinguished the fire. Fire crews performed a primary search and located a dog, rendering care. Initial reports indicate there was a lithium ion battery involved in the fire, and the ESF fire marshals office is on scene investigating . The fire was contained to the apartment I'd origin, and there were no other injuries reported




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170809/Attach0.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170809/Attach0_11.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170809/Attach0_44.jpeg

Sun. 03/17/24
Fire Crews Rescue Injured Hiker On Spencers Butte (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/17/24 6:13 PM
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Eugene, OR. Eugene Springfield Fire crews responded to an injured hiker on Spencer’s Butte Sunday afternoon.  The hiker fell and sustained life threatening injuries.  Crews requested LCSO Search and Rescue to aid in securing the patient and moving them 200 yards to the top of the butte.  The patient was then transported to Riverbend Hospital by a Life Flight helicopter.  Edit- two more photos added 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170804/IMG_8464.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170804/IMG_8462.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170804/IMG_0833.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170804/IMG_0829.jpeg

Hop Aboard the Easter Bunny Express! (Photo)
Oregon Rail Heritage Center - 03/17/24 3:12 PM
Easter Bunny Express
Easter Bunny Express
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Join us for a 45-minute train ride featuring the Easter bunny! Historic passenger cars pulled by a diesel locomotive offer comfortable seating and spectacular views of the city, river and wildlife. Kids of all ages will enjoy an Easter scavenger hunt and other fun activities. And the Easter bunny will be onboard to greet everyone!

Snacks and adult & kid friendly beverages will be available for purchase.

Saturday, March 30 @ 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm and 4:00pm. Adults $20, Kids 3-12 $15; 2 and Under Ride Free on Lap

For tickets and more info, visit www.orhf.org/saturday-train-rides/




Attached Media Files: Easter Bunny Express

DCSO and SAR Continue Efforts to Locate Rachel Merchant-Ly (Photo)
Douglas Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/17/24 2:00 PM
A Douglas County Search and Rescue Volunteer searches for Rachel Merchant-Ly recently
A Douglas County Search and Rescue Volunteer searches for Rachel Merchant-Ly recently
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𝐈𝐃𝐋𝐄𝐘𝐋𝐃 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊, 𝐎𝐫𝐞. - Search and Rescue efforts continue in the search for Rachel Merchant-Ly, a Glide Elementary kindergarten teacher whose vehicle was found crashed in the North Umpqua River.

Merchant-Ly was reported missing on Thursday, February 29th when she didn't arrive at school. 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, nearly 300 hours volunteer hours of searching has taken place. Douglas County Search and Rescue has been using various methods of searching to include drone, ground and K9. The Sheriff's Office Marine Patrol has conducted water searches as well. Volunteers have searched along the riverbank from the crash site to Idleyld Park Trading Post; approximately 21 miles.

"We all want to find Mrs. Merchant-Ly and return her to her family," Sheriff John Hanlin said. "Our deputies are in constant communication with her family and providing them with updates as to our efforts. We will continue searching and using all means necessary to accomplish our mission," Hanlin added.

In addition to the efforts of DCSO and Search and Rescue volunteers, several community members have been actively looking for Merchant-Ly.

"We are aware of rafting guides and groups of rafters who have been launching all in an attempt to assist in finding her. We have also been contacting community members who are walking along the North Umpqua Trail and the highway," Hanlin said. "As always this community steps forward to care for each other."

As the weather turns more springlike, the Sheriff's Office encourages those recreating around the area to be aware Merchant-Ly is still missing and to report anything which may assist in concluding this missing person case.




Attached Media Files: A Douglas County Search and Rescue Volunteer searches for Rachel Merchant-Ly recently

Motorcyclist Dies After Crashing Head-On with Passenger Truck
Jackson Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/17/24 11:57 AM

 


 

JCSO Case 24-1476


 

TRAIL, Ore. - A 21-year-old motorcyclist died yesterday, Saturday March 16, after colliding head-on with a passenger truck outside of Trail, Ore. Our condolences go out to his friends and family. Out of respect to the grieving we will not be releasing the name of the deceased.


 

ECSO Dispatch received a call for a motor vehicle crash at 12:53 p.m. Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies responded to the crash on mile marker 8 of Elk Creek Road. Life-saving measures were attempted, but the motorcycle rider was pronounced deceased on scene. Speed is believed to be a contributing factor.


 

Jackson County Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction (STAR) team responded to investigate. Preliminary findings revealed a 2022 Yamaha motorcycle was traveling southbound on Elk Creek Road when it failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway and drove into the oncoming lane, striking a northbound 2018 Chevy Colorado. Speed is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash. The driver of the passenger truck was fully cooperative with the investigation. Impairment was not a factor in the crash.


 

The STAR Team consists of investigators from JCSO, Medford Police Department, and Central Point Police Department. This case is under further investigation. There is no more information available for release.


Firefighters Respond To West Eugene Grass Fire (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/17/24 2:21 AM
2024-03/4466/170795/IMG_5584.jpeg
2024-03/4466/170795/IMG_5584.jpeg
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Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire crews are on scene of a small grass fire in the 2600 block of Bell Avenue in West Eugene.  Firefighters were alerted to the fire shortly before 6:30 PM Saturday evening.  Firefighters arrived to find a slow moving grass fire near the rail road tracks.  The fire was extinguished and did not damage any property, the cause is undetermined.  This fire is a good reminder that it takes very little sun and heat to dry out small fuels like grass making ignition easier.  While we are not yet there, fire seasons continue to begin earlier and last longer.  Spring is a good time to get rid of old dead vegetation to reduce the risk of wildfires burning in our communities. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170795/IMG_5584.jpeg

Sat. 03/16/24
Firefighters Respond To West Eugene Grass Fire (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/16/24 7:14 PM
2024-03/4466/170792/IMG_5584.jpeg
2024-03/4466/170792/IMG_5584.jpeg
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/4466/170792/thumb_IMG_5584.jpeg

Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire crews are on scene of a small grass fire in the 2600 block of Bell Avenue in West Eugene.  Firefighters were alerted to the fire shortly before 6:30 PM Saturday evening.  Firefighters arrived to find a slow moving grass fire near the rail road tracks.  The fire was extinguished and did not damage any property, the cause is undetermined.  This fire is a good reminder that it takes very little sun and heat to dry out small fuels like grass making ignition easier.  While we are not yet there, fire seasons continue to begin earlier and last longer.  Spring is a good time to get rid of old dead vegetation to reduce the risk of wildfires burning in our communities. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170792/IMG_5584.jpeg

West Eugene RV Fire Extinguished (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/16/24 2:08 PM
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Eugene, OR.  Just after 9:00 PM Friday night, Eugene Springfield Fire received multiple reports of an RV fire near the intersection of Barger Drive and Ohio Street in West Eugene.  Arriving fire crews found a fully involved RV fire and suppressed the fire.  There were no injuries or damage to neighboring homes and the cause is under investigation. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170787/imagejpeg_0.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170787/imagejpeg_0_90.jpeg

Sheriff's Office to Host Hiring Event in April (Photo)
Lincoln Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/16/24 10:00 AM
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3/16/24 – Lincoln County, Oregon

We are looking for individuals with strong character, motivation, and integrity to join our Sheriff’s Office team. With multiple positions open, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is hosting a hiring event on Saturday, April 27, 2024. This event is a great opportunity to get a better idea of the rewarding careers our team has to offer. 

Deputy applicants ages 21 years and older are invited to complete the written and physical testing requirements for free. Participants in this event experience a significantly expedited application process. In addition to completing required tests for free, participants also have the opportunity to meet our team, ask questions, receive more information on perks and benefits, and enjoy free lunch and snacks. All participants need to bring ID and deputy applicants need to bring athletic clothes and shoes.

Those interested in participating are encouraged to complete an application before the event. To submit an application, visit www.co.lincoln.or.us/748/Join-the-Team. Join us at this hiring event to jumpstart your successful career in Law Enforcement.  

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, April 27, 2024
Time: 10:30am – 4:00pm 
              10:30am - 11:00am Check in and Meet and Greet
              11:00am – 1:00pm Written Exam (tests for applicants interested in deputy positions)
              1:00pm – 1:30pm Networking (and time to change clothes for physical testing)
              1:30pm – 4:00pm Physical Test and Lunch (physical testing for applicants interested in deputy positions. 
              Testing takes less than 30 minutes per participant.)
Location: Search and Rescue Building, 830 NE 7th St., Newport

What to Bring:

  • Government Issued Identification
  • Athletic clothes and shoes if applying for a deputy position
  • Interest in joining our team as a Corrections or Patrol Deputy, Corrections Nurse, or Cook.

Registration for this event is encouraged but not required. For questions or to register, contact Jess Palma at 541-265-0652 or jpalma@co.lincoln.or.us

 



 

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Attached Media Files: 2024-03/5490/170748/4.27.24_-_Hiring_Event_Poster.pdf , 2024-03/5490/170748/Hiring_Event_Media_Release_-_03.16.24.pdf , 2024-03/5490/170748/Hiring_Event_Media_Release_-_03.16.24.docx , 2024-03/5490/170748/Hiring_Event_PNG.png

Fri. 03/15/24
Busy day for Sweet Home Firefighters with early brush fire, structure fire and multiple medical calls. (Photo)
Sweet Home Fire Dist. - 03/15/24 7:42 PM
2024-03/5505/170785/20240315_180958.jpg
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http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/5505/170785/thumb_20240315_180958.jpg

On March 15, 2024 at 12:34pm Sweet Home Fire District was dispatched to a wire down in the rural area of Cascadia, about 13 miles east of Sweet Home. First arriving units found flames 2-3 ft high along Highway 20, quickly moving into nearby trees and brush. Extinguishing the fire proved difficult due to a live power line on the ground, but thanks to Pacific Power's quick response crews were able to contain the fire to about a 300ft x 25ft area. Sweet Home Fire was assisted on scene by an engine from Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon Department of Transportation, Oregon State Police and Linn County Sheriff's Office. This is a startling reminder of how fast fuels can dry out with just a few days of sunshine, as we are far ahead of the normal time of year we see incidents such as this.  

At 5:26 pm, crews were dispatched to a structure fire in the 2700 block of Long St. Initial reports were of a shed fire spreading to a tree. As crews were going enroute information was updated that the house was now also on fire. The on duty Battalion Chief arrived less than two minutes after being dispatched, finding the shed fully involved, burning up the tree and the siding of the house actively burning spreading up into the eaves. After a quick knock down the fire did not reach the interior of the home, the shed was a complete loss along with part of a carport. Crews were on scene for close to 90 minutes checking for extension into the house and attic space. Sweet Home Fire responded with 3 chief officers, two engines and a medic unit. We were assisted on scene by Sweet Home Police Department. Cause of fire has not been determined at this time. 

Throughout this busy day Sweet Home medics ran several medical calls. With four calls being at one time, bringing Lebanon Fire District medic units over to assist. A big thank you to Lebanon Fire District for their assistance with several medical calls requiring transport to local hospitals. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/5505/170785/20240315_180958.jpg , 2024-03/5505/170785/20240315_183931.jpg , 2024-03/5505/170785/DSCF0816[1].JPG , 2024-03/5505/170785/DSCF0812[1].JPG , 2024-03/5505/170785/DSCF0810[1].JPG

Crews Extingusih Car Fire At W. Eugene Home Depot (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/15/24 6:15 PM
2024-03/4466/170784/FB_IMG_1710538883845.jpeg
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http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/4466/170784/thumb_FB_IMG_1710538883845.jpeg

Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire crews responded to a vehicle fire Friday afternoon at the West Eugene Home Depot.  Firefighters were alerted to the fire just before 2:30 PM and arrived to find a fully involved vehicle.  There were no injuries and the fire did not extend beyond the involved vehicle.  The cause is under investigation. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170784/FB_IMG_1710538883845.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170784/IMG_5565.jpeg

03-15-24 Douglas County Fairgrounds Receives Four Regional Industry Awards (Photo)
Douglas Co. Government - 03/15/24 5:14 PM
2024-03/6789/170782/2024_DCF_WFA_Award_1st_TV.jpg
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

March 15, 2024

 

Douglas County Fairgrounds Receives Four Regional Industry Awards 

 

(Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Chris Boice, Tim Freeman, and Tom Kress are excited to announce that the Douglas County Fairgrounds recently received four prestigious industry awards at the Western Fair Association’s (WFA) 2024 Convention and Trade Show.  The 2024 WFA Convention and Trade Show took place in Anaheim, California earlier this year.  Douglas County garnered two first-place trophies for their television and radio ads, as well as second-place for their fair logo, and third-place for their ‘Fair Time’ advertising poster in the small fair division.  The awards were presented at the Annual Industry Awards dinner during the convention which featured presentations honoring individual achievements and commitments in the Fair Industry during the 2023 season.

 

Congratulations to our Fairgrounds team! We are proud of the hard work they do in putting on not only one of the best fairs around, but also for the work they do year-round for all the events they host.  As I have said before, our Douglas County Fairgrounds Complex is one of our most valuable and underappreciated County assets.  County residents are missing out if they don’t take advantage of the events and opportunities they offer,” stated Commissioner and Fairgrounds Liaison, Tom Kress. 

 

WFA’s award competition is incredibly competitive, and it is very rare for a small county fair like Douglas County to bring home top honors, especially when they are competing against numerous fairs in more populated areas with much larger budgets and resources.

 

We are proud and excited to have our county fair and our community recognized by our fair industry peers. We are incredibly thankful for our local promotional and design partners, Anvil Northwest and Brooke Communications for their efforts in helping us achieve this level of recognition,” commented Douglas County Fairgrounds Business & Administrative Coordinator Ciera Keith.

 

Founded in 1922 and incorporated in 1945, WFA is a nonprofit trade association serving the fair industry throughout the western United States and Canada. The association's primary purpose is to assist in maintaining the highest professional standards within the fair industry through a voluntary network of individuals and organizations. The primary objective of Western Fairs Association is to promote the prosperity of fairs through educational activities, training programs and legislative advocacy.  Western Fairs serves more than 800 members, representing 9 U.S. States and Canadian provinces, fair-related businesses, fair management, fair board directors, festivals, and industry associations.Membership of the Western Fairs Association is comprised of fairs and fair-related businesses throughout the western United States and Canada.

 

Interested in renting or learning more about what the Douglas County Fairgrounds has to offer, log onto our website at https://douglasfairgrounds.com/

 

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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

Award images attached. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6789/170782/2024_DCF_WFA_Award_1st_TV.jpg , 2024-03/6789/170782/2024_DCF_WFA_Award_1st_Radio.jpg , 2024-03/6789/170782/2024_DCF_WFA_Award_2nd.jpg , 2024-03/6789/170782/2024_DCF_WFA_Award_3rd.jpg

Benton County offers funding for case management & street outreach to support rehousing (Photo)
Benton Co. Government - 03/15/24 3:12 PM
Oportunidad de Recursos
Oportunidad de Recursos
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Español a continuación

The Benton County Health Department is seeking applications from eligible entities to help support case management and street outreach services for the Coordinated Homeless Response Office’s Rapid Rehousing Initiative to reduce homelessness in Benton County.

Up to $360,000 is available for case management services and up to $80,000 for street outreach services. These services will play an important role in Benton County’s House Bill (HB) 5019 Rapid Rehousing Initiative that will coordinate a system of care to address and prevent homelessness through a Flexible Housing Subsidy Pool (FHSP) led by the Benton County Health Department. The goal of the HB 5019 Rapid Rehousing Initiative is to achieve long-term housing stability for 31 households by June 30, 2025.  

The Health Department is committed to sustaining effective strategies beyond the initial HB 5019 investments to support rapid rehousing. The goal of the FHSP is to coordinate a system of care that fully addresses the unique and complex needs and barriers of people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. 

The FHSP will work to achieve this goal by providing centralized access to:

  1. Housing navigation
  2. Tenancy supports
  3. Intensive case management
  4. Street outreach
  5. Rental subsidies 
  6. Landlord engagement and incentives

“We are grateful to our partners at Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) for this funding opportunity to support our community's coordinated response to homelessness,” said Interim Health Department Director, April Holland.  

“We have a strong network of housing and homeless service providers who play a critical role towards our shared vision that everyone in Benton County should have an opportunity to live in decent, safe, and affordable housing.” 

All provided services will be culturally responsive, low barrier, and ensure equitable access and outcomes through Housing First principles and evidence-based practices. Services will be provided with a health equity, trauma-informed, and harm reduction approach. Culturally responsive programs and services will be prioritized.

Interested organizations should review the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Benton County website, available starting March 15, 2024. Proposals must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m., April 15, 2024. Applications will be reviewed by a Benton County Health Department evaluation committee with a funding recommendation forwarded to the Board of Commissioners for final approval.  

For more information on this request for proposals, please contact Coordinated Homeless Response Office Project Manager, Rebecca Taylor, at 541-766-6787 or ebecca.taylor@bentoncountyor.gov">rebecca.taylor@bentoncountyor.gov


Español

El Condado de Benton ofrece fondos para la administración de casos y ayuda en las calles para colaborar con el realojamiento

El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton está pidiendo solicitudes de organizaciones que califiquen para colaborar con el proceso de administración de los servicios para personas bajo la Iniciativa de Realojamiento Rápido de la Oficina de Respuesta Coordinada para las Personas sin Hogar para reducir la falta de vivienda en el Condado de Benton.

Hay un total de $360,000 disponibles para servicios de administración de casos y $80,000 para servicios de alcance a la comunidad. Estos servicios desempeñarán un papel importante en la Iniciativa de Realojamiento Rápido bajo la Ley 5019 de la Camara de Representantes, del Condado de Benton que coordinará un sistema de atención para enfrentar y prevenir la falta de vivienda por medio de un Fondo de Ayudas de Vivienda Flexible (FHSP por sus siglas en inglés) dirigido por el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton. El objetivo de la Iniciativa de Realojamiento Rápido de la Ley 5019 es lograr estabilidad de vivienda a largo plazo para 31 hogares antes del 30 de junio de 2025.

El Departamento de Salud está comprometido a mantener estrategias efectivas más allá de las inversiones iniciales de la Ley 5019 para apoyar un realojamiento rápido. El objetivo del fondo FHSP es coordinar un sistema de atención que enfrente completamente las necesidades y las barreras únicas y difíciles de las personas que se encuentran sin hogar o en riesgo de quedarse sin hogar. 

El fondo FHSP trabajará para lograr este objetivo ofreciendo acceso centralizado a: 

  1. Navegación de vivienda
  2. Apoyos para poder rentar
  3. Servicios intensivos de apoyos
  4. Alcance a la comunidad
  5. Apoyo ecónomico para pagar la renta
  6. Compromiso e incentivos de los propietarios

"Estamos agradecidos con nuestros socios de Servicios Comunitarios y de Vivienda de Oregón (OHCS) por esta oportunidad de tener un fondo para apoyar la respuesta coordinada de nuestra comunidad a las personas sin hogar," dijo la directora interina del Departamento de Salud, April Holland. 

"Tenemos una sólida red de organizaciones de servicios de vivienda y para personas sin hogar que desempeñan un papel fundamental en nuestra visión compartida de que todos en el Condado de Benton deben tener la oportunidad de habitar en viviendas decentes, seguras y de bajo costo."

Todos los servicios ofrecidos serán culturalmente apropiados, de bajos requisitos y garantizarán acceso y resultados equitativos a través de los principios de Housing First (Vivienda Primero) y prácticas basadas en evidencia. Los servicios se brindarán con un enfoque de equidad en salud, no retraumatizar a las personas y ofrecer servicios con el proposito de reducir daños. Se darán prioridad a los programas y servicios culturalmente receptivos.

Las organizaciones interesadas deben revisar el Aviso de Oportunidad de Financiamiento (inglés solamente) en el sitio web del Condado de Benton, disponible a partir del 15 de marzo de 2024. Las propuestas deben enviarse en inglés a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 15 de abril de 2024. Las solicitudes serán revisadas por un comité de evaluación del Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton con una recomendación de financiamiento enviada a la Junta de Comisionados para su aprobación final. 

Para obtener más información sobre esta solicitud de propuestas, comuníquese con la Gerente de Proyectos de la Oficina de Respuesta Coordinada para las Personas sin Hogar, Rebecca Taylor, al 541-766-6787 o ebecca.taylor@bentoncountyor.gov">Rebecca.taylor@bentoncountyor.gov.

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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 call Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or email pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov




Attached Media Files: Oportunidad de Recursos , Funding opportunity

Crews Extingusih Car Fire At W. Eugene Home Depot (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/15/24 2:57 PM
2024-03/4466/170773/FB_IMG_1710538883845.jpeg
2024-03/4466/170773/FB_IMG_1710538883845.jpeg
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/4466/170773/thumb_FB_IMG_1710538883845.jpeg

Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire crews responded to a vehicle fire Friday afternoon at the West Eugene Home Depot.  Firefighters were alerted to the fire just before 2:30 PM and arrived to find a fully involved vehicle.  There were no injuries and the fire did not extend beyond the involved vehicle.  The cause is under investigation. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170773/FB_IMG_1710538883845.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170773/IMG_5565.jpeg

OHA has released an online dashboard that will chronicle the ongoing progress from more than $230 million in behavioral health investments
Oregon Health Authority - 03/15/24 2:43 PM

March 15, 2024

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459,

timothy.heider@oha.oregon.gov

OHA has released an online dashboard that will chronicle the ongoing progress from more than $230 million in behavioral health investments

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has released a supplemental online dashboard that will chronicle the ongoing progress from more than $230 million in behavioral health investments.

The emerging capacity was funded through legislation in 2021, that is projected to create more than 1,000 behavioral health housing units and residential treatment beds by the end of 2025.

OHA distributed these funds to providers over the past two years to bolster behavioral health housing and residential treatment throughout the state.

This dashboard spotlights the two recent major behavioral health housing funding streams.

It is an offshoot of the Behavioral Housing and Treatment dashboard  that was unveiled last November.

When completed, the projects will increase the state’s behavioral health housing capacity by about 20 percent.

The dashboard will track two separate funding streams:

  • Approximately $100 million in grants awarded to every Oregon county. And approximately $130 million awarded to statewide social service providers.
  • Together those revenues will yield nearly 500 residential treatment beds and more than 550 behavioral health housing units.

Residential treatment beds are licensed by the state and are round the clock services and supports for people with chronic behavioral health challenges. Behavioral health housing units are not licensed by the state and serve as transitional settings from people experiencing homelessness to stable housing.

The new supplemental dashboard details spending by funding source and by county, along with timelines, projected outcomes and populations being served.

The earlier dashboard includes the full portfolio of behavioral housing investments. Those include the investments highlighted in the new dashboard, along with new funding sources such as Measure 110, and historical investments.   

Timelines for such projects can typically take years to complete because of the complexities of acquiring sites, building expenses and other construction-related factors. The calculations include development costs such as purchasing real estate, facility renovations, not operating revenues.

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DPSST - Board & Policy Committee Recruitments (Application Deadline 3/15/2024)
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 03/15/24 2:40 PM

2024 Board on Public Safety Standards & Training

 and Policy Committee

Open Vacancy – Recruitments

 

The Board on Public Safety Standards & Training (BPSST) and established Policy Committees have open vacancies looking to be filled. The current vacancies are as follows:

 

BPSST: All Board applications must be submitted through Workday.com

  • Administrator of a Municipality recommended to the Governor by the executive body of the League of Oregon Cities
  • Representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the DOC

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications are due by March 15, 2024.

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

  • One person representing telecommunicators
  • One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a telecommunicator

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

  • One person representing the health care industry
  • One person representing the public who have never been employed or utilized as a private security provider or investigator

Corrections Policy Committee:

  • Two people representing Non-Management Corrections Officers
  • One person representing the Oregon Sheriff’s Jail Command Center
  • One Corrections officer who is employed by the Department of Corrections at a women's correctional facility and who is a member of a bargaining unit

Police Policy Committee:

  • One person representing Non-Management Law Enforcement

To inquire about a vacancy, please visit Department of Public Safety Standards & Training : Board on Public Safety Standards & Training and Policy Committees : Boards and Committees : State of Oregon.

If interested in applying for a Policy Committee position, please complete and submit the Policy Committee Interest Form found under the ‘Board and Committee Resources’ section of the website listed above.

If interested in applying for a BPSST position, please complete the online application at Workday Board and Commission Opportunities. (Please note that an account may need to be created if not already in Workday)

For further information regarding the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training or its respective Policy Committees, please contact Samantha Kossa - samantha.kossa@dpsst.oregon.gov

 

Thank you,

DPSST Board & Committees Staff


*** UPDATE 03/11/24 *** Corvallis Police Investigating Fatal Shooting on NW Highland Dr.
Corvallis Police - 03/15/24 2:40 PM

News Release

Corvallis Police Department

180 NW 5th Street

Corvallis, OR97330

541-766-6924

3/15/2024 2:40 PM

UPDATE 03/15/2024

Jerry Bruce Mitchell was arraigned in Benton County Circuit Court today, March 15th, on the following charges:

Murder in the 1st Degree ORS 163.107
Attempted Murder in the 1st Degree ORS 164.405, Two Counts
Unlawful Use of a Weapon ORS 166.220, Two Counts
Possession of Weapons by Certain Felons ORS 166.270

Mitchell entered a not guilty plea and was denied bail by the judge. He will remain in custody at the Benton County Jail. 

END OF UPDATE

3/11/2024 10:59 am

 

Media Contact: 

Lt. Ben Harvey, Corvallis Police Department

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

UPDATE 03/11/24
Corvallis Police Investigating Fatal Shooting on NW Highland Dr.

On Saturday, March 9th, at approximately 7:21pm, the Corvallis Police Department responded to a report of a shooting at 1927 NW Highland Dr. Officers arrived and found 34-year-old Vonetta Johnson of Corvallis deceased on the kitchen floor, succumbing to an apparent gunshot wound to the head. Alongside her lay her sister, 24-year-old Ciara Page of Eugene, who sustained serious injuries to her shoulder and head from an apparent gunshot wound. Ciara Page was rushed to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center and continues to be in stable, albeit serious condition. Vonetta Johnson’s two minor children were in the residence at the time but unharmed.  

During transit to the hospital, officers were able to gather crucial information from Ciara Page, identifying the suspect as Vonetta Johnson’s boyfriend, 53-year-old Jerry Bruce Mitchell Sr. of Long Beach, California. Leveraging several technologies, officers successfully tracked Jerry Mitchell Sr. traveling south near Medford at approximately 10:48 p.m. Subsequently, a temporary warrant was issued, leading to his location and arrest by the California Highway Patrol in a white Ford SUV following a 45-minute pursuit that at times exceeded 100 miles per hour. Mitchell Sr. was apprehended shortly after midnight and has been lodged at the Siskiyou County Jail pending extradition arrangements. An arrest warrant for Jerry Mitchell Sr. has been filed with the Benton County Circuit Court for the following charges.

Murder in the 1st Degree ORS 163.107, Two Counts
Attempted Murder in the 1st Degree ORS 164.405
Unlawful Use of a Weapon ORS 166.220, Two Counts
Possession of Weapons by Certain Felons ORS 166.270

This case remains open and under active investigation by the Corvallis Police Department in collaboration with partner agencies to include the Albany Police Department, Benton County Sherriff’s Office, the Benton County District Attorney’s Office, and several agencies in Northern California. Currently, no further information is available. Additional updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.


Nurses Report PeaceHealth Failed to Properly Care for Homebound Patients During Strike (Photo)
Oregon Nurses Assn. - 03/15/24 2:04 PM
Local home care nurses, elected leaders and community allies held a candlelight vigil in Springfield Feb. 23 to demand PeaceHealth raise standards and commit to a fair contract for nurses and patients. Photo courtesy of Kevin Mealy, ONA.
Local home care nurses, elected leaders and community allies held a candlelight vigil in Springfield Feb. 23 to demand PeaceHealth raise standards and commit to a fair contract for nurses and patients. Photo courtesy of Kevin Mealy, ONA.
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/6931/170768/thumb_ONARNs_SHHCS_Vigil.JPG

(Springfield, Ore.) — PeaceHealth is facing serious allegations about its failure to properly care for local home health and hospice patients during its recent nurses’ strike. Between Feb. 10 - 24, home health and hospice patients and health care workers have reported that:

  • Multiple PeaceHealth home care patients had to be readmitted to the hospital due to a lack of proper home wound care by PeaceHealth’s high-priced strike replacement nurses.
  • Some patients went without wound care visits for up to 14 days.
  • Many patients had appointments canceled and were only seen for 50% of their prescribed visits.
  • Missing and bad documentation by PeaceHealth’s strike replacement workers and PeaceHealth managers left it unclear what type of care patients received during visits.
  • Four of PeaceHealth’s strike replacement nurses quit in the first few days of the strike because patient acuity was much higher than they had expected.
  • A PeaceHealth strike replacement nurse broke down and cried during a patient appointment due to high patient acuity.
  • Upon returning, many of the skilled union nurses were locked out of the computers they need to chart and phones required for their work for up to 3 hours delaying the visits they had scheduled with patients.
  • No PeaceHealth managers were working the first two days after nurses returned and many were off the following week–making it harder to address missed care, documentation and IT problems.

These unsettling reports of compromised patient care have raised significant concerns about PeaceHealth’s priorities and its ability to care for patients without union nurses. The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is calling upon PeaceHealth and health care regulatory agencies to investigate reports of substandard patient care and hold PeaceHealth accountable. 

Local nurses delayed their original strike dates after PeaceHealth appeared unprepared to care for patients. Nurses chose to give PeaceHealth 10 additional days before a strike began to transfer patients to other home care agencies or join nurses at the bargaining table and reach a fair agreement to prevent a strike.

PeaceHealth executives refused to transfer patients and canceled their mediation session with nurses–which could have prevented a strike. PeaceHealth executives had repeatedly assured patients, their families and our community that there would be no disruption to care during the strike. They failed to keep that promise.

Nurses cited their concern for patients and PeaceHealth’s failures to adequately prepare to care for them at the time they chose to delay the strike, saying:  

“Our community’s health and safety is nurses’ no. 1 priority. Frankly, we have no confidence in PeaceHealth executives’ ability to provide safe care for patients by Feb. 1. To best support local patients and their families, we’ve made the difficult decision to change our strike dates to Feb. 10 - 24,” said Jo Turner, an ONA member and hospice nurse at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services. “This also gives PeaceHealth’s multimillionaire executives another opportunity to meet with us and prevent a strike. Nurses remain ready and willing to meet them anywhere, anytime. But we’re not holding our breath.”

The more than 90 registered nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA).

Local nurses and PeaceHealth executives have had two mediation sessions since the limited duration strike ended. Nurses made significant movement in the first session March 6 in hopes of getting movement from PeaceHealth. Unfortunately, PeaceHealth executives did not significantly improve their proposals to reach a fair deal on March 15. There is a future mediation session scheduled for March 20.

PeaceHealth’s corporate executives in Washington have spent the last year low-balling home care nurses in contract negotiations—offering lower pay than PeaceHealth Sacred Heart hospital nurses at Riverbend and lower than nurses at other home care agencies. PeaceHealth’s disrespect towards nurses and their patients has driven nearly a quarter of nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services to leave. Another one-third of nurses plan to leave if PeaceHealth continues shortchanging patients and providers. Fewer nurses means home-bound patients and their families suffer from care delays, receive fewer treatments and ring up costly hospital readmissions bills.

Nurses began negotiating with PeaceHealth executives in February 2023 and have been working on an expired contract since April 2023.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of 18,000 nurses, and health care professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses, and health care professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.




Attached Media Files: Local home care nurses, elected leaders and community allies held a candlelight vigil in Springfield Feb. 23 to demand PeaceHealth raise standards and commit to a fair contract for nurses and patients. Photo courtesy of Kevin Mealy, ONA.

Two Oregon Educators Nominated for National History Day's Teacher of the Year Award (Photo)
Oregon Historical Society - 03/15/24 12:21 PM
John Santella
John Santella
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/2861/170729/thumb_jsantella.jpeg

Teachers from Bend and Beaverton nominated for the national award which “recognizes the pivotal role teachers play in the lives of students.”

Portland, OR — The Oregon Historical Society is pleased to announce that two Oregon educators, Patrick O’Brien and John Santella, have been nominated for the Patricia Behring Teacher of the Year award for their work with students on Oregon History Day (OHD), an affiliate of the National History Day® (NHD) program.

History Day is a student-directed learning program that reaches more than half a million students each year. Creating projects inspired by an annual theme, young historians in grades 6–12 choose topics to explore, conduct historical research, practice critical thinking skills, and analyze primary and secondary sources while considering diverse viewpoints.

Patrick O’Brien, the grades 7/8 Individuals and Societies teacher at Seven Peaks School in Bend, Oregon, was nominated in the Junior (middle school) category for the way he has made History Day a cornerstone of the school’s curriculum. Since relocating to Bend from Switzerland in 2018, O’Brien has supported many students at both the state and national contest levels. His influence at Seven Peaks School stands out due to the opportunities he has cultivated for students to share their work both within their school and throughout their community; back-to-school nights and orientation sessions for prospective families have become spaces where students’ History Day achievements are highlighted and celebrated. Having had such a positive experience participating in the program, many alumni return to guide current students through the process, serving as judges or leading discussions about History Day.

John Santella, a social studies teacher at Westview High School in Beaverton, Oregon, has been nominated for the award in the Senior (high school) division. Having first participated in History Day during the 2019–2020 school year when the contest had to shift to a virtual format due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Santella found the program to be a successful tool to engage students even within a distance-learning setting. During the next two years, Santella and his colleagues promoted the program throughout their school, leading Westview to become one of the largest Oregon History Day participants in the state. When in-person competition returned in 2023, 30 Westview students presented their projects at the Oregon History Day contest at Willamette University; almost half of those students continued on to compete in the National Contest near Washington, D.C.

“The nominees for the Behring Award have shown a dedication to teaching that goes beyond the classroom,” said Dr. Cathy Gorn, National History Day Executive Director. “These educators are leading examples for their peers and invaluable resources for their students. I congratulate Mr. O’Brien and Mr. Santella on their well-deserved nominations.”

History Day’s unique approach to learning history carries many benefits for students. Rather than simply reading a textbook or memorizing dates, students can use multiple disciplines to learn about history, further developing strong research skills. With the option to choose their own topic of interest and present their work as either a paper, documentary, exhibit, website, or performance, students use creative expression to interpret primary and secondary sources, implement effective research strategies, and develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

The national winner, who will receive a $10,000 award, will be selected by a committee of experienced teachers and historians, and announced on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at the National History Day® National Contest Awards Ceremony in College Park, Maryland. Nominees’ work must clearly illustrate the development and use of creative teaching methods that engage students in history and help them make exciting discoveries about the past. The award is sponsored by Patricia Behring in recognition of the pivotal role teachers play in the lives of students.


About the Oregon Historical Society

For 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all.We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and complex as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.  




Attached Media Files: John Santella , Patrick O'Brien

Emergency Preparedness Matching Grant Program Now Open
Lincoln Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/15/24 12:09 PM

Since 2007, the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners, have annually sponsored a local matching grant for emergency preparedness, disaster response and disaster recovery for qualifying entities.

Purpose

To provide matching funds to qualifying local entities to purchase emergency supplies or equipment (e.g., disaster food items, water purification equipment, bedding, cots, sanitation, first-aid supplies, warning radios or other devices, and similar supplies or equipment) intended for disaster response or recovery efforts.

Qualifying Entities

  • City: Incorporated cities - Depoe Bay, Lincoln City, Newport, Siletz, Toledo, Waldport, Yachats
  • Fire: City Fire Departments and Rural Fire Protection Districts
  • Schools: Lincoln County School District, Linn-Benton-Lincoln ESD, Oregon Coast Community College, Charter Schools, OSU Hatfield Marine Science Center
  • Ports: Alsea, Depoe Bay, Toledo, Newport
  • Tribes: Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
  • Water Districts: Lower Siletz, Kernville-GB-LB, Beverly Beach, Otter Rock, Panther Creek, Carmel Beach, Devil’s Lake, Seal Rock, SW Lincoln
  • Community: OSU Extension Service

Amount Available

Lincoln County has made available individual grants up to $2,500 per qualifying entity, up to $36,000, for fiscal year 2023-2024. Grants will be awarded to approved projects on a first-come / first-served basis. These are one-to-one (1:1) matching grants. 

Application Process

Notification

An email announcement (PDF) of the grant opening will be forwarded by the County Emergency Manager to the qualifying entities agency leadership.

Completing the Application

To be considered for a matching grant, qualifying entities must submit the application online. 

Applicants need to provide:

  1. Agency demographics, points of contacts, project timelines, list of items to be purchased and where they will be stored.
  2. Project narrative, including how the requested funds will be used for emergency preparedness, response, or disaster recovery efforts.
  3. Agency Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) - upload a digital PDF copy of the current agency EOP in the digital application form.

Timeline

The application will remain open until all funds are awarded for this fiscal year or until May 15, 2024, whichever is sooner. 

Award Process

  1. Notification will be made via email to applicants regarding their application status.
  2. If the project is approved, instructions will be provided. This includes how to access funds, final expense reporting and project conclusion with timelines report.
  3. To receive funds early: Complete the Grant Advance Request form if an advance is needed. The form will be emailed with the award notification, allow 3 weeks for payment processing, submit via email to County Emergency Manager.
  4. To receive remaining funds: Complete the Grant Final Finance Report form once all items have been expensed and submit to the county Emergency Manager. Please allow 3 weeks for payment processing.
  5. Funds must be requested by the Awardee by June 7, 2024 to receive payment before the end of the fiscal year.

Project Conclusion

  • Complete the Final Financial Project Request/Report form and forward to County Emergency Manager.
  • Complete the online Project Conclusion Report to make notification of expenditures and project conclusion.
  • If Awardee is unable to use all their awarded funds for their project and they requested advance funds they will be invoiced for the return of the unused amount of the match funds.
  • County Emergency Manager should be notified via email if response or recovery supplies are relocated to a new location in future years.

Grant Coordinator: County Emergency Manager, Samantha Buckley, uckley@co.lincoln.or.us">sbuckley@co.lincoln.or.us 541-265-4199




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/5490/170761/BOC_Preparedness_Grant_Announcement_FY23-24_update.pdf

Watercraft Dry Dock Safety Inspections (Photo)
Jackson Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/15/24 11:48 AM
2024-03/6186/170760/Dry_Dock_Inspections_flyer_2024.jpg
2024-03/6186/170760/Dry_Dock_Inspections_flyer_2024.jpg
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/6186/170760/thumb_Dry_Dock_Inspections_flyer_2024.jpg

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office

Marine Division

 

Marine Patrol / Search & Rescue Building

620 Antelope Rd., White City

 

Watercraft Dry Dock Safety Inspections

 

Saturday March 16th, 10am – 4pm

Sunday March 24th, 10am – 4pm

No appointment necessary

 

Bring your boat or personal watercraft along with the required safety equipment for our annual safety inspection. 

2024 Oregon State Marine Board safety stickers will be issued for boats that pass inspection.

 

U.S. Coast Guard will be available for safety inspections.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6186/170760/Dry_Dock_Inspections_flyer_2024.jpg

Solar Eclipse at Paul Morgan Observatory at Umpqua Community College
Umpqua Community College - 03/15/24 11:07 AM

ROSEBURG, Ore., Mar. 15, 2024 — The Paul Morgan Observatory at Umpqua Community College will host a public watch party of the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. This rare event will occur as the moon passes over the sun for a few minutes. The next total solar eclipse will not occur in the United States until 2045.

The observatory will begin showing the eclipse at 10:30 a.m. and end at noon. Images of the solar eclipse will be displayed on the large TV monitor screen inside the observatory. 

If skies are clear on the morning of April 8, live views of the sun will be available from several telescopes equipped with special filters. If fog or clouds obscure the sun, live images will be available from several sources in the path of the eclipse. Observers in a 115-mile-wide path crossing Texas to Maine will be able to see a total solar eclipse for about 4 minutes. 

Visitors to the UCC Observatory will see a partial solar eclipse with about a quarter of the sun covered by the moon at maximum eclipse at about 11:21 a.m. Live images of totality will also be shown to see the solar corona.

The event will take place whether it is clear or cloudy. Inside seating is limited.

About Umpqua Community College
Nestled in the beautiful North Umpqua River Valley, Umpqua Community College is the regional center for higher education in Douglas County, Oregon. UCC provides high quality college degree programs, workforce development, and community learning opportunities. For more information, please visit us online at umpqua.edu.


BLM seeks input on proposed Grassy Mountain Gold Mine Project in Oregon
Bureau of Land Management Ore. & Wash. - 03/15/24 10:58 AM

VALE, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public input on the proposed Grassy Mountain Gold Mine Project near Vale in Malheur County to inform the scope of analysis for the environmental impact statement. The most helpful comments include potential local concerns and opportunities, identification of potential alternatives and issues to be analyzed, and possible measures to minimize or avoid adverse environmental impacts relevant to the proposed action.

Calico Resources USA Corp. proposes to develop an underground mine with a dedicated chemical processing mill and associated storage. If approved, the project would cover about 470 acres of public lands and about 19 acres of private lands. The development and production at the mine would take place over a 10-year period and be followed by four years of reclamation. 

The BLM is hosting public meetings to discuss the project in Jordan Valley and Ontario, Oregon. BLM will announce the public meeting dates and on the BLM National NEPA Register, including a virtual option for the Ontario meeting. Please contact Larisa Bogardus at 541-219-6863 for the meeting link to attend virtually. 

A notice will publish in the Federal Register on Monday, March 17, and begin a 30-day scoping period scheduled to close April 17, 2024. The public can submit comments through the BLM National NEPA Register (preferred), emailed to blm_or_vl_grassymtn@blm.gov or delivered to: Attn: Grassy Mountain Gold Mine Project c/o Malheur Field Office, 100 Oregon St., Vale, OR 97918.

-BLM-

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


Former Journalist, Nonprofit Leader Named Director of Communications at Oregon Community Foundation (Photo)
Oregon Community Foundation - 03/15/24 9:30 AM
Colin-Fogarty-Courtesy of Oregon Community Foundation
Colin-Fogarty-Courtesy of Oregon Community Foundation
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/6858/170752/thumb_Colin-Fogarty-Courtesy_of_Oregon_Community_Foundation.jpg

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Community Foundation has named former public radio journalist and nonprofit executive director Colin Fogarty as its Director of Communications. This is a new role at OCF, created to elevate the stories of the foundation’s partners and collaborators and the positive work they are doing in every community of Oregon.

“The work and impact of this 50-year-old foundation is growing significantly,” said Stephanie Swanson, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer. “We are so fortunate to have someone like Colin who deeply understands the power of storytelling to deliver a call to attention, bring people together, and push to improve this state we love and call home,” she added.

Fogarty joins a team of 10 professionals on the marketing, communications and research team at OCF, helping Oregonians to better understand pressing needs across the state, and join efforts to make big and lasting improvements in communities across the state.

Fogarty spent two decades as a public radio reporter and editor. At OPB News, he covered the Oregon legislature in Salem and big issues facing the state, such as Oregon’s landmark Death with Dignity Act and its chronic meth epidemic. His stories were heard throughout the Northwest and on NPR. Later he became regional editor for public radio’s Northwest News Network, where he managed a team of reporters covering the issues and state legislatures in Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Along the way, Colin kept returning to the theme of history and its role in our everyday lives. He produced stories on the Columbia River’s Indigenous cultures and the silencing of Celilo Falls in 1957.

In 2014, he became Executive Director of Confluence, a community-supported nonprofit and OCF grant recipient, with the mission to connect people to the history, living cultures and ecology of the Columbia River system through Indigenous voices. Confluence works through public art landscapes, education programs, public gatherings, media and publications in collaboration with northwest Tribes and the celebrated artist Maya Lin. 

Now at OCF, Fogarty has once again traded one form of storytelling for another, with the aim of highlighting stories of nonprofit and community leaders serving Oregonians in every corner of the state. 

“In all my roles, my priority was always to elevate the voices of people who have been historically kept out of the public dialogue and the history books,” Fogarty says. “At OCF, we have the opportunity to lift up the voices of the people who inspire and teach us, and who are having a real impact in small communities and large, rural and urban, and everywhere in between.”

About Oregon Community Foundation
Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) was founded in 1973 with a big mission: to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF works to strengthen communities in every county in Oregon through research, grantmaking and scholarships. In 2023, OCF distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, please visit oregoncf.org.


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Attached Media Files: Colin_Fogarty_Named_DOC_OCF_2024 News Release , Colin-Fogarty-Courtesy of Oregon Community Foundation

Three Sentenced to Federal Prison for Klamath Basin Drug Trafficking
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 03/15/24 8:00 AM

MEDFORD, Ore.—In separate criminal cases, three southern Oregon drug traffickers, including the leader of a Klamath Falls, Oregon, drug trafficking organization, were sentenced to federal prison Thursday following investigations by the Basin Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team (BINET), announced the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

Juan Jessie Martinez-Gil, 59, a former resident of Reno, Nevada, was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release;

Blake Anthony Fulleton, 35, a resident of Klamath Falls, was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release; and

Miguel Espana, 31, also of Klamath Falls, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

U.S. v. Martinez-Gil

According to court documents, between August 1, 2019, and September 2, 2021, Martinez-Gil and various associates conspired with one another to traffic large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl, in the form of counterfeit Oxycodone pills, purchased in Southern California to Southern Oregon. Martinez-Gil and others sold these drugs to distributors in Klamath and Lake counties for further distribution and sale.

On September 2, 2021, Martinez-Gil and several associates were arrested as part of a coordinated law enforcement operation and federal search warrants were executed on five locations and two vehicles connected to the group. Law enforcement located and seized more than seventeen pounds of methamphetamine and several hundred counterfeit Oxycodone pills.

On September 30, 2021, a federal grand jury in Medford returned an indictment charging Martinez-Gil and his associates with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl, and attempted distribution of methamphetamine.

On November 1, 2023, Martinez-Gil pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.

U.S. v. Fulleton

In September 2021, detectives from the Klamath Falls Police Department observed Fulleton, who they knew had multiple active felony warrants, depart a known drug house in Klamath Falls. After fleeing the detectives and crashing his vehicle into a power pole, Fulleton led the officers on a short foot pursuit and was arrested. At the time of his arrest, Fulleton possessed a small quantity of methamphetamine on his person. Detectives searched his vehicle and located a loaded pistol, an additional 480 grams of methamphetamine, a small quantity of heroin, and various drug packaging materials.

On February 3, 2022, a federal grand jury in Medford returned an indictment charging Fulleton with possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. On December 11, 2023, Fulleton pleaded guilty to illegally possessing a firearm.

U.S. v. Espana

In 2019, Klamath Falls area law enforcement began investigating Espana for drug trafficking and obtained information that he possessed approximately two pounds of methamphetamine in his vehicle. On October 22, 2019, investigators located Espana sitting in the passenger seat of his vehicle parked near a Klamath Falls motel and later stopped his vehicle when it departed the lot. Investigators searched the vehicle and located approximately 717 grams of methamphetamine, a digital scale, drug ledger, and $758 in cash.

On February 3, 2021, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Espana with one count of possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and, on October 16, 2023, he pleaded guilty to the single charge.

All three cases were investigated by BINET. On Martinez-Gil and Espana, BINET investigators were assisted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). On Fulleton, they were assisted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Martinez-Gil and Espana were prosecuted by Marco A. Boccato, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. Fulleton was prosecuted Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Brassell, also of the District of Oregon.

BINET is a Klamath Falls area narcotics task force comprised of Oregon State Police, the Klamath Falls Police Department, and Oregon National Guard.

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Attached Media Files: PDF Release

Oregon Lottery's Winning Raffle Numbers Drawn (Photo)
Oregon Lottery - 03/15/24 6:13 AM
It’s time to check your tickets for Oregon’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Raffle.
It’s time to check your tickets for Oregon’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Raffle.
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Salem, Ore. – It’s time to check your tickets - Oregon’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Raffle numbers have been drawn. 

Winning $1 Million Top Prize Number: 082773

Prizes for the St. Patrick’s Day Raffle include:

  • $1 million top prize
  • 300 prizes of $500
  • 1,500 prizes of $100

To check the winning Raffle numbers for all 1,801 prizes, players can use the Lottery’s smart phone app, go to www.oregonlottery.org or visit a participating Oregon Lottery retail location.

The $500 and $100 prize winners can claim their prizes at any Oregon Lottery retail location. In addition, players can claim their prize by mail – visit oregonlottery.org/about/claim-prizes for instructions. The $1 million Raffle prize winner will need to make an appointment with the Oregon Lottery office in Salem or Wilsonville. Please call 503-540-1000 for assistance.

The Raffle offers the best odds of any Oregon Lottery game of winning $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 with 250,000 tickets available, and all 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




Attached Media Files: It’s time to check your tickets for Oregon’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Raffle.

2023 Annual Report Published
Lincoln Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/15/24 5:48 AM

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to share the 2023 Annual Report with our communities. In 2023, our team continued to rise to meet challenges while striving to genuinely connect our community. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office prioritized continued training and team development, helping to ensure our members had access to the tools they need to successfully serve all our community members. New partnerships and a new patrol program also emerged in 2023. Many of our team members had their hard work was recognized by outside agencies through various awards. 

Although it is hard to capture all accomplishments over the last year, our team has tried to summarize major activities and services completed by your Sheriff’s Office. A sneak peak of the report is listed below, and the full report can be found at www.co.lincoln.or.us/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/266.

Main topics in the report:

  • Sheriff’s Message
    • Quick summary of 2023 
  • Administration
    • Focused events and efforts on recruitment and hiring
    • Increased community outreach by hosting and participating in more community-based events
    • Continued to focus on and improve team wellness
  • Emergency Management
    • Created wildfire PSAs in English and Spanish
    • Participated in continued training and exercises
    • Received two million dollar funding for public safety radio upgrades
  • Patrol
    • New team members and promotions
    • Met all requirements to become Re-Accredited 
    • Established an Electronic Storage Detection Canine Program
  • Support Services
    • Attended and hosted training
    • Completed evidence inventory in partnership with Lincoln City Police Department
    • Concentrated effort to offer more concealed handgun license appointments to meet local demand
  • Corrections
    • Jail consultation completed and recommendations considered
    • Multiple Adults in Custody earned their GEDs through jail programming
    • Provided meals to Lincoln County Winter Shelters
  • Animal Shelter
    • Creative solutions used to continue to meet needs
    • New location announced
    • Increase in stray dogs and decrease in owner’s reclaiming their dogs
    • Partnership with Lincoln County Food Share’s Pet Food Bank to help address local food needs
  • Awards
    • Multiple awards received throughout the Sheriff’s Office 

       

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Attached Media Files: 2024-03/5490/170746/03.15.24_-_Annual_Report_Published.pdf , 2024-03/5490/170746/03.15.24_-_Annual_Report_Published.docx

Thu. 03/14/24
Marion County District Attorney's Office Announces Sentencing in Shooting Death of Eduardo Jovani Garcia
Marion Co. Dist. Attorney's Office - 03/14/24 5:19 PM

Marion County, Oregon. 3/14/2024. 

District Attorney Paige Clarkson announced today that two individuals have been sentenced for their roles in the March 9, 2022, drive by shooting death of Eduardo Jovani Garcia.  Mr. Garcia was 20 years old at the time of his death. 

John Juarez-Juarez, 19 at the time of the incident, was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree and Attempted Murder in the First Degree. 

Shooter Yahir Cruz-Rosales, barely 18 at the time of the incident, also pled guilty and was sentenced to 20 years in prison for Manslaughter in the Frist Degree and Attempted Murder in the First Degree with a Firearm.   At the time of the shooting, he was on parole from the Oregon Youth Authority for Burglary in the First Degree. 

Both cases were resolved via a settlement conference before Marion County Circuit Court Judge Jennifer K. Gardiner.  She sentenced the defendants on March 14, 2024. 

The shooting occurred at approximately 5:30pm on Hayesville Rd NE. The defendants were in a black 2004 BMW when they spotted the victim’s vehicle on Lancaster Drive NE.  For over three and a half minutes they pursued the victim through traffic until they were able to pull alongside the victim’s vehicle in the opposite lane of travel on Hayesville Rd, where Cruz-Rosales shot the victim’s car three times.  Garcia was struck one time in the chest and the bullet lodged in his spine. 

At sentencing, Defendant Juarez-Juarez confirmed that their motivation for the killing was gang related. 

Both John Juarez-Juarez and Yahir Cruz-Rosales had previously been victims in shooting incidents.  On December 7, 2019, John Juarez-Juarez was shot in the neck as a 16-year-old.  He did not cooperate with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the case was never charged.  On February 27, 2022, Yahir Cruz-Rosales was in a vehicle that was shot seventeen times on Portland Road NE. That Salem Police investigation was ongoing when this incident occurred.   

Investigations of those prior incidents never linked Eduardo Jovani Garcia in any way to those shootings.  

Also inside the victim’s vehicle at the time of the shooting was front seat passenger Zachery Retonong, 20.  He was not injured. Subsequent to this shooting, Retonong was charged with Murder in the First Degree in Multnomah County for the August 7, 2021, death of Donhavinh Saelee. Ultimately, Retonong pled guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree and other firearm-related offenses.  He is currently serving a 270-month prison sentence in the Oregon Department of Corrections for that incident. 

Retonong’s convictions created proof challenges for the prosecution in this incident, which was a factor in the negotiated resolution to manslaughter on this case. 

“This is another senseless gang-related shooting death,” District Attorney Paige Clarkson stated. “It is worrisome how common this narrative has become for young men in this community. This case, combined with tragic recent events, emphasizes the need to focus on gun violence prevention and community-based intervention of gang violence.”  

“Our deepest sympathies go out to the victim’s family and loved ones. Especially Eduardo’s daughter, who was yet-to-be born before this tragedy took her father.” 

The case was investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Salem Police Department.  The lead Detective was Marion County Sheriff’s Detective Noe Martinez.  The District Attorney’s Office would like to recognize his and his fellow detective’s significant work in this investigation. 

The case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy.  Any questions can be directed to PMurphy@co.marion.or.us">BPMurphy@co.marion.or.us or (503) 588-5222.


Spring Whale Watch Week returns to the Oregon coast for spring break 2024 (Photo)
Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept. - 03/14/24 2:26 PM
Whale Watch Center outside
Whale Watch Center outside
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Corrected: The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

OREGON COAST, Oregon— Oregon State Parks will host Spring Whale Watch Week along the Oregon Coast Saturday, March 23 through Sunday, March 31.

Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 15 sites along the Oregon Coast to help visitors spot whales and their calves and answer questions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily March 23-31. The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast. 

The spring event is three days longer than last year and might include better odds of seeing gray whales on their journey home from the calving lagoons in Mexico in light of today’s announcement from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 

NOAA announced the end of an Unusual Mortality Event, a significant die-off of the gray whale population, that had affected the marine mammals since 2019.

“The latest counts indicate that the gray whale population has likely turned the corner and is beginning to recover. It’s a perfect time for people to see them as they swim north with new calves to feed,” said Michael Milstein, public affairs officer with NOAA Fisheries.

Researchers counted about 412 calves last year, which was almost double the number from the year before. That helped signal an end to the Unusual Mortality Event and a likely turnaround in numbers as the species begins to rebound.

An estimated 14,500 gray whales are expected to swim past Oregon’s shores from late winter through June as part of their annual migration back to Alaska.

“Spring is a great time for whale watching because the gray whales are usually closer to shore on their return trip, typically around a mile or so out, and the weather can be better for viewing. But don’t forget your rain gear just in case,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.

A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online on the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 23-31. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.

All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and keeping an eye on the surf at all times. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.

For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit oregonstateparks.org.

Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Spring Whale Watch on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch24.

Media Resources: photos available at this link.




Attached Media Files: Whale Watch Center outside , Whale Watch Center , Whale watch volunteer , Whale Tail , Gray whale spout

Annual Hydrant Flushing - 3-14-24 (Photo)
Roseburg Fire Dept. - 03/14/24 2:17 PM
Image 1
Image 1
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The Roseburg Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants inside the city limits of Roseburg from April 1, 2024 through June 30, 2024.  Hydrant flushing will be conducted from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, seven days a week. 

The Fire Department realizes that hydrant flushing may cause some inconvenience; however, the flushing program is necessary to ensure the proper functioning and delivery of adequate water from the water mains when needed for fire control.  The community’s cooperation with this hydrant-flushing program is appreciated. 

During the flushing process, customers may experience low water pressure or discolored water. While the water is safe to drink, customers may prefer to wait until it runs clear before drinking or washing clothes and dishes.




Attached Media Files: Image 1

Gov. Kotek proclaims April to be Oregon Arbor Month (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/14/24 11:47 AM
Planting trees during Oregon Arbor Month is an important part of ensuring urban forest canopy is adequate to provide vital ecosystem benefits to Oregonians.
Planting trees during Oregon Arbor Month is an important part of ensuring urban forest canopy is adequate to provide vital ecosystem benefits to Oregonians.
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SALEM, Ore. – Governor Tina Kotek has proclaimed that April 2024 will be Oregon Arbor Month throughout the state. This year’s proclamation recognizes the importance to neighborhoods of urban trees as cities add housing and rapidly densify. 

The proclamation states that “Trees play an integral role in fostering healthy communities,” adding that urban development and the preservation of trees demands a careful balance. 

Governor Kotek said, “To protect Oregon’s natural and working lands in the face of the worsening climate crisis, we must build a more resilient future that forges connection across our landscapes, for both rural and urban communities alike. Arbor Month is key to this goal, promoting the preservation and planting of trees across Oregon.”

Her proclamation notes the loss of trees in Oregon to wildfire, extreme heat and drought, development pressures and new pests, such as emerald ash borer. 

Oregon Dept. of Forestry Urban and Community Forestry Program Manager Scott Altenhoff said, “Replacing those trees will require us to pick up the pace not only of planting but also ensuring nurseries have the capacity to grow the numbers of trees needed and the types of trees that are resilient to climate and resistant to serious pests and diseases. Equally important is growing and diversifying the workforce in urban forestry.”

Altenhoff said there is also growing recognition, as cited in the proclamation, that the benefits of tree canopy have been unevenly distributed in the state. 

“Many low-income areas and those with large populations of people of color having fewer large shade trees than more affluent neighborhoods,” said Altenhoff. “Research has shown that having fewer large shade trees in those lower-canopy neighborhoods is strongly associated with increased deaths from heart disease and poor health outcomes. Lack of trees can affect everything from having more low-birthweight babies to increased rates of asthma and mental health issues, not to mention domestic violence and crime.”

Altenhoff said that fortunately Oregon has worked hard to obtain more federal funding for urban forestry. “This year we will begin calling for applications from communities interested in getting grants from some $26 million in federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funds we’ve secured from the USDA Forest Service.” 

Altenhoff said the federal funds have helped ODF expand its Urban Forestry team from just one manager and one community assistance forester trying to serve over 170 Oregon cities and towns to a team of seven, including a new grants administrator to process applications and monitor compliance with grant requirements. 

“We are in a much better position now to help communities increase their canopy, with an emphasis on those historically disadvantaged communities that have the least canopy,” said Altenhoff. “In the wake of the 2020 heat dome and the dozens of resulting deaths from that, the Oregon Legislature has also recognized the need to ensure we have healthy, shade-giving urban forests. Last year legislators provided the first ever state funding dedicated to support urban forestry work, including funding for community assistance forester positions within ODF.

Arbor Month grew out of Arbor Day, a one-day tree-planting campaign in Nebraska in 1872. The event spread nationwide and expanded in many states to a week-long celebration of all-things tree related. In Oregon, a few years ago the non-profit Oregon Community Trees lobbied to expand the time devoted to celebrating trees to the entire month. 

“Going to a month-long celebration has enabled us to encompass the growing number of tree planting and other tree-related activities held around the state,” said Oregon Community Trees President Tyler Roth. The organization he heads is an advisory council to ODF on urban forestry matters, and promotes urban forests statewide. 

Tyler explained that Oregon is such a big state that early April marks the end of tree planting in the western part of the state. By contrast, in the colder climate of eastern Oregon tree planting may not be advisable until near the end of April. 

“Having the entire month to plan activities appropriate to the climate and weather has made great sense,” he said.

OCT supports Arbor Month activities each year with small grants to Oregon communities. Roth said he expects at least half a dozen communities will receive grants later this month to boost their Arbor Month events.

Read the full text of the proclamation.

# # #




Attached Media Files: Planting trees during Oregon Arbor Month is an important part of ensuring urban forest canopy is adequate to provide vital ecosystem benefits to Oregonians.

Fire destroys Lebanon Home. (Photo)
Lebanon Fire District - 03/14/24 11:03 AM
Thanks Pacific Power
Thanks Pacific Power
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At approximately 0417 hours on Thursday March 14, 2024, Lebanon Fire District responded to the report of a structure fire in the area of Dodge St. and Main St. 

When initial units arrived on scene, they found a two-story structure with flames coming out of the second story window. Crews were able to make entry into the structure to ensure nobody was inside. Once the crews determined nobody was inside structure, the crews began a defensive attack on the fire due to structural integrity of the building and the multiple additions to the structure. The extinguishment of the fire took about 2 hours. 

The Lebanon Fire district responded with 8 apparatus and 14 personnel. Lebanon Fire District was assisted by Albany Fire Department and Sweet Home Fire District with extinguishment of the fire. While Crews from Brownsville Fire Department and Tangent Fire Department were brought in to help protect the Lebanon Fire District while crew were battling the blaze. 

The Lebanon Fire District would like to remind residents of the importance of working smoke alarms. For assistance with smoke alarms in your home, contact our Fire & Life Safety Division at (541) 451-1901.




Attached Media Files: Thanks Pacific Power , Defensive attack , First arriving unit

Firefighters Train On New Firefighting Foam (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/14/24 10:46 AM
2024-03/4466/170717/IMG_0939.jpeg
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Eugene, OR. Eugene Springfield Fire’s aircraft rescue and firefighting crews received special live fire training at PDX this week.  The training was centered around the application of new firefighting foams that are poly-fluorine free.  These new foams are intended to lessen the environmental impact of aircraft firefighting on the environment by removing forever chemicals.  This training is being done in preparation of switching to new and more environmentally friendly foaming agents later this year.

From the US Fire Administration:

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) for fighting liquid fuel fires since the 1970s. Fluorine-free foams are foams that do not contain any PFAS. Both use the same approach to fighting liquid fuel fires.

How they work

Firefighting foams form a “blanket” over liquid fuel that acts as a barrier preventing flammable vapors from escaping the liquid. This helps both to extinguish the fire and to prevent additional ignition of vapors. The more stable and long-lasting this foam blanket is, the more effective the foam is at containing flammable vapors and ultimately extinguishing the fire.

The problem

Although PFAS-containing foams are more effective than fluorine-free foams, in numerous scientific studies PFAS are linked to harmful effects on humans and animals and they do not degrade naturally in the environment. In response to the negative impacts of PFAS, the Department of Defense in January 2023 issued a new performance specification for firefighting foams used by the military.  The specification outlines the functional requirements for firefighting foams used on military bases. These foams must be able to effectively extinguish class B hydrocarbon liquid fuel fires without containing PFAS.

The next step

Many efforts are underway to find effective alternatives to PFAS-containing firefighting foams. However, given the rapidly evolving legislation and the urgency of the issue, researchers are hoping to find additives to existing foam formulations that can be deployed faster in the field.

For example, researchers at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, Maryland, are testing and evaluating additives to enhance firefighting capabilities of commercially available PFAS-free fire suppressants for military use. To learn more about this research visit the Johns Hopkins APL website.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170717/IMG_0939.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170717/IMG_0942.jpeg

Public Notice - Winston-Dillard Fire District No. 5 Joint Board of Directors and Local Contract Review Board Meeting
Douglas Co. Fire Dist. No.2 - 03/14/24 10:37 AM

JOINT BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND LOCAL CONTRACT REVIEW BOARD (LCRB) MEETING NOTICE

The Board of Directors of Winston-Dillard Fire District No. 5 will hold its Regular Board meeting at WDFD Fire Station at 250 SE Main St., Winston, OR on Monday, March 18, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. To comply with House Bill 2560, those that wish to participate can attend through videoconferencing or telephonically. If you plan on attending the meeting, please call the business office at 541-679-8721 during normal business hours prior to 4:00 p.m. on Monday, March 18, 2024, for instructions.

The Board agenda to include but not limited to:

  1. Monthly Financial Report

  2. Badge Pinning

  3. Resolution No. 2024-02 / Public Contracting Rules Update / LCRB

  4. FY24-25 Budget / Appoint Budget Committee Members     

        

The meeting location is accessible to person with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to Winston-Dillard Fire District No. 5 at 541-679-8721


DPSST Applicant Review Committee Meeting Cancelled 3-27-2024
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 03/14/24 10:29 AM

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

 

Notice of Meeting Cancellation

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting scheduled for March 27th, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., has been cancelled due to lack of agenda items.
 

The next Applicant Review Committee meeting is scheduled for April 24th, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.
 

 


Public Notice - Central Douglas Fire & Rescue Authority Joint Board of Directors and Local Contract Review Board Meeting
Douglas Co. Fire Dist. No.2 - 03/14/24 10:01 AM

JOINT BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND LOCAL CONTRACT REVIEW BOARD (LCRB) MEETING NOTICE

A joint meeting of the Board of Directors and Local Contract Review Board of Central Douglas Fire & Rescue Authority will be held at the Winston-Dillard Fire station located at 250 SE Main St. Winston, OR 97496 on Monday March 18, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. To comply with House Bill 2560, those that wish to participate can attend through videoconferencing or telephonically. If you plan on attending the meeting, please call the business office at 541-673-5503 during normal business hours prior to 4:00 p.m. on Monday March 18, 2024, for instructions.

The Board agenda to include but not limited to:

  1. Monthly Financials
  2. Resolution 2024-06: Public Contracting Rules Update
  3. Budget Committee Member Appointments
  4. Chief’s Report
  5.  

The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to administration at 541-673-5503.


Tip of the Week for March 18, 2024 (Photo)
Lincoln Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/14/24 10:00 AM
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2024-03/5490/170507/Tip_of_the_Week_-_Sharing_the_Road.png
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SHARING THE ROAD: CYCLISTS AND MOTORISTS

Cycling has become more popular as a recreational activity and as alternative transportation. As the weather continues to get nicer and more cycling events come into season, expect to see more bicycles on the road and in shared community spaces. Both cyclists and motorists have responsibility to follow traffic laws and to take additional precautions to keep everyone safe. 

Bicycles on streets and highways are considered, by law, a vehicle, and are required to obey the rules of the road. This means they must follow the laws that apply to all vehicles and laws specific to cyclists. Weather, experience, and traffic can impact the safety of sharing the road. Using additional caution and patience can help keep our roads safer for everyone involved.

Motorists should remember these tips:

  • When a cyclist has stopped and remains on their bicycle at an intersection or a traffic signal, they are to be treated as a vehicle waiting for their turn to proceed.
  • Be alert for small children on oversized bicycles. This may increase the likelihood for loss of control.
  • When passing a cyclist, go around them like you would pass another vehicle and leave plenty of room.
  • When you are preparing to make a right turn, watch for cyclists who may pull up alongside you. Remember to look over your shoulder to check your blind spots.
  • When pulling away from the curb, merging, or preparing to turn, check for cyclists who may be trying to pass.
  • When parked at the curb, check for cyclists before opening the vehicle door. It’s the driver's responsibility not to open the vehicle door into traffic.
  • Do not follow too closely behind cyclists.
  • Remember cyclists are entitled to make left turns in the same manner as other vehicles.
  • Be aware of roadway conditions that may affect a cyclist.
  • Weather such as fog or rain impact motorists and cyclists alike. Use additional caution in hazardous areas and during times of low visibility.
  • Do not sound your horn unnecessarily. If you must use your horn, tap it quickly and lightly while you are still some distance away from the cyclist. 
     

Cyclists should remember these tips while using streets and highways:

  • Riding against the flow of traffic is illegal and increases your risk of injury and death.
  • Cyclists are required to ride in bike lanes or paths when it is adjacent to the roadway with exceptions for right and left turns and to avoid hazards.
  • In areas without bike lanes, cyclists are required to ride as close as practicable to the curb, however they may need to adjust to avoid grates, potholes, debris, gravel, sand, wet or slippery surfaces, rutted or grooved pavement and other hazards.
  • Keep your hands on the handlebars except when making a hand signal.
  • Keep your feet on the pedals.
  • Do not carry more people on the bicycle than it was designed for.
  • Do not hold onto, attach yourself or the bicycle to any other moving vehicle.
  • Only ride side by side on the road with another cyclist when it does not impede other traffic.
  • If there is not enough room to pass safely, ride single file.
  • Ensure the bicycle is equipped with at least one white light to the front and a red light and or red reflector mounted on the rear of the bicycle.
  • Wear reflective clothing or gear.
  • Wear appropriate protective gear.
  • Ensure the bicycle has effective brakes.
  • Share your cycling plans with loved ones, include where you are going and when you are expected to return.

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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Attached Media Files: 2024-03/5490/170507/03.14.24_-_Sharing_the_Road.pdf , 2024-03/5490/170507/03.14.24_-_Sharing_the_Road.docx , 2024-03/5490/170507/Tip_of_the_Week_-_Sharing_the_Road.png

Public Notice - Douglas County Fire District No. 2 Joint Board of Directors and Local Contract Review Board Meeting
Douglas Co. Fire Dist. No.2 - 03/14/24 9:59 AM

JOINT BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND LOCAL CONTRACT REVIEW BOARD (LCRB) MEETING NOTICE                 

A joint meeting of the Board of Directors and Local Contract Review Board of Douglas County Fire District No. 2 will be held at the Winston-Dillard Fire station located at 250 SE Main St. Winston, OR 97496 on Monday March 18, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. To comply with House Bill 2560, those that wish to participate can attend through videoconferencing or telephonically. If you plan on attending the meeting, please call the business office at 541-673-5503 during normal business hours prior to 4:00 p.m. on Monday March 18, 2024, for instructions. 

The Board agenda to include but not limited to:

  1. Monthly Financials
  2. Volunteer Badge Pinning
  3. Resolution 2024-04: Public Contracting Rules Update

 

The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to DCFD #2 at 541-673-5503.


Residential House Fire
Jefferson Fire Dist. - 03/14/24 9:26 AM

On Wednesday, March 13, at 8:44 a.m. Jefferson Fire District was dispatched to 534 Hazel St., Jefferson, Oregon.  This was a single alarm fire.  Upon arrival the Incident Commander Levi Eckhardt reported there was no smoke showing and all the occupants were outside.  

There was one adult and three children outside of the home.  The owner reported she had been smelling smoke for approximately 10-12 hours.  They had thought the smoke was from outside.  She turned on her bedroom light, heard a popping sound.  She immediately called 911 and got her three children out of the house safely.      

The fire was contained in the attic.  The Firefighters opened the attic in the back bedroom, quickly located the fire and extinguished it.  The fire was deemed under control at 9:06 a.m.  There were no injuries.  The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.  Thank you to Albany Fire for responding and staging for the call.          

 


Western Oregon University highlights recent publications and resources (Photo)
Western Oregon University - 03/14/24 9:20 AM
2024-03/1107/170709/Publications_PR.jpg
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Description automatically generated

  

MEDIA RELEASE

Western Oregon University
Marketing & Communications

Monmouth, OR 97361

 

 

 

 

 

 

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE / March 14, 2024

 

Western Oregon University highlights recent publications and resources

University Marketing and Communications

Maureen Brakke, 503-838-9329

Brittany Kima, 503-838-8163

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University highlights the publications of new works by staff and faculty. From October 2023 to February 2024, 37 works have been published, showcasing the dedication and expertise of the Western community. 

In addition to traditional publications, faculty have been actively involved in creating materials through the Open Educational Resources (OER) program. OER are freely available teaching, learning, and research resources that reside in the public domain or have been released under an intellectual property license permitting their free use and re-purposing by others. 

Under an open license, OER materials permit everyone to engage in the 5Rs: Retain, Reuse, Revise, Remix, and Redistribute. This allows educators and learners to adapt and customize the materials to suit their needs, fostering a collaborative and inclusive learning environment. 

The OER program at Western launched in February 2020, and since then, faculty have been actively involved in creating and refining valuable teaching resources. From open textbooks and full courses to modules, syllabi, and lab activities, the OER materials cover a wide range of digital learning resources. 

Faculty and staff value strong connections between the university and the community, and sharing knowledge through publications and the OER is one of the many ways Western continues to serve the community.  

More information about the OER program

More information about recent staff and faculty publications 

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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/2024/03/14/western-oregon-university-highlights-recent-publications-and-resources/




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1107/170709/Publications_PR.jpg

01/19/24 -- LCSO Case #24-0292 -- Domestic Assault by Armed Felon (Photo)
Lane Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/14/24 9:11 AM
2024-01/6111/169475/24-0292_Rifle.jpeg
2024-01/6111/169475/24-0292_Rifle.jpeg
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03/06/24 - UPDATE

On March 6th, Ash pled guilty to Assault in the Fourth Degree Felony, three counts of Menacing, three counts of Unlawful Use of Weapon, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.  He was sentenced to 44 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections.

--
01/19/24 – LCSO Case #24-0292 – Domestic Assault by Armed Felon

Just before midnight on January 19th, Deputies with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a dispute in the 86000 block of Territorial Road.  One of the involved, Josh Thomas Ash, 38, was reportedly armed with a handgun and bat and looking for one of the two victims.  As deputies approached the residence to make contact, they heard an active dispute inside.  Simultaneously, one of the victims reported Ash was attempting to break down the door of the room they were hiding in.  Deputies forced entry into the residence and quickly detained Ash without further incident.  The Deputies’ investigation revealed Ash had hit one of the victims in the head with a baseball bat, menaced them with a handgun, and was a felon in possession of firearms.  Ash was arrested and lodged at the Lane County Jail on charges of Assault 2, Menacing, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-01/6111/169475/24-0292_Rifle.jpeg , 2024-01/6111/169475/24-0292_Bat.jpeg , 2024-01/6111/169475/24-0292_Pistol.jpeg

Kicker claims top $1.6 billion with a month to go before tax deadline
Oregon Dept. of Revenue - 03/14/24 9:00 AM

Salem, OR—Oregon taxpayers have already claimed nearly $1.6 billion of the record $5.61 billion surplus revenue kicker tax credit being returned to taxpayers in 2024, the Oregon Department of Revenue announced.

The department also reported that it has received more than 950,000 tax returns thus far this year. Another 1.2 million returns are expected to be filed in 2024 and more than $4 billion in kicker surplus remains to be claimed. The tax filing deadline is April 15.

“More than 1 million taxpayers still need to file and we are urging Oregonians not to wait until the last minute,” said Megan Denison, administrator of the agency’s Personal Tax and Compliance Division. “We also urge anyone who is owed a kicker to file and claim it.”

The kicker—the largest in state history—is being returned to taxpayers through a credit on their 2023 state personal income tax returns filed in 2024. The credit is based on tax liability for the 2022 tax year. Taxpayers who have not yet filed a 2022 tax return, should file now so they can claim their kicker credit when they file their 2023 tax return.

Who is eligible?
Taxpayers are eligible to claim the kicker if they filed a 2022 tax return and Oregon state income tax due before credits. Even taxpayers who don't have a filing obligation for 2023, still must file a 2023 tax return to claim their credit. The kicker is based on Oregon income tax paid in 2022, not federal income tax paid.

Who is not eligible?
Taxpayers who have not filed a 2022 Oregon income tax return or did not have income tax due for 2022 are not eligible to receive a kicker. The same is true for filers who didn’t complete the filing process last year because they failed to respond to letters from the department seeking more information.

How is the kicker calculated?
To calculate the amount of their credit, taxpayers can multiply their 2022 tax liability before any credits—line 22 on the 2022 Form OR-40—by 44.28 percent. This percentage is determined and certified by Oregon Office of Economic Analysis. Taxpayers who claimed a credit for tax paid to another state would need to subtract the credit amount from their liability before calculating the credit.

Taxpayers whose 2022 Oregon income tax owed was adjusted by the department when they filed last year, should use the adjusted amount of tax when calculating their kicker.

Taxpayers should not guess at their kicker amount. They can determine the amount of their kicker using the What’s My Kicker? Tool available on Revenue Online. To use the tool, taxpayers will need to enter their name, Social Security Number, and filing status for 2022 and 2023.

What form should taxpayers use?
Residency status determines what form taxpayers should use. More information is available on the What form do I use page of the agency’s website.

The 2023 Oregon personal income tax return instructions include detailed information on how to claim the credit on Form OR-40 for full-year Oregon residents, Form OR-40-P for part-year residents, and Form OR-40-N for nonresidents. Composite and fiduciary-income tax return filers are also eligible.

Taxpayers should keep in mind that the state may use all or part of their kicker to pay any state debt they owe, such as tax due for other years, child support, court fines, or school loans.

Taxpayers can donate their kicker with a checkbox on their tax return to the Oregon State School Fund for K-12 public education, but they must donate the entire amount. The donation is permanent and cannot be taken back.

Taxpayers also have the option of donating part or all of their refund to any or all of the 29 charities approved by the Charitable Checkoff Commission. Taxpayers use Form OR-DONATE to designate any amount or all of their refund to donate to charity.

Free tax preparation services are available for both federal and Oregon tax returns. Some software companies offer free software use and e-filing for eligible taxpayers. Visit the Department of Revenue website to take advantage of the software and free offers and get more information about free tax preparation services .

For more information, go to the Oregon surplus “kicker” credit page of the Department of Revenue website.

Visit www.oregon.gov/dor to get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make tax payments; call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish); 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon; or email questions.dor@oregon.gov.
 


BLM proposes stronger greater sage-grouse conservation plans
Bureau of Land Management Ore. & Wash. - 03/14/24 8:23 AM

Analysis uses best available science and lessons learned to benefit species and western communities

 

WASHINGTON – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is announcing a draft plan to strengthen greater sage-grouse conservation and management on public lands, informed by the best-available science and input from local, state, federal, and Tribal partners. The draft plan is built on decades of partnership, research, and on-the-ground knowledge and experience in maintaining, protecting and restoring healthy sagebrush habitats. 

Greater sage-grouse rely on sagebrush lands for all aspects of their life cycle to meet seasonal needs for food, cover and reproduction. A local population may need up to 40 square miles of intact landscape to stay healthy. Populations once in the millions now number fewer than 800,000, largely due to habitat loss exacerbated by climate change, such as drought, increasing wildfires, and invasive species. Protecting and restoring sagebrush on BLM-managed public lands across the West is critical not just for greater sage-grouse, but also for the health of western communities and other iconic Western species that rely on healthy sagebrush, including mule deer, pronghorn, and the pygmy rabbit. Additionally, these collaboratively developed landscape-level plans will ensure that other multiple uses of BLM sagebrush lands – including clean energy projects – move forward in a manner that limits impacts to sensitive resources and can also help combat climate change—a main driver of greater sage-grouse habitat loss. 

“The majesty of the West and its way of life are at stake. Sagebrush lands are places where people work and play, and they are the headwaters for the West’s major rivers,” said BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning. “Joint efforts to conserve the greater sage-grouse and its habitat led to the largest collaborative conservation effort in our history, and we are building on that work, together with our partners, to ensure the health of these lands and local economies into the future.” 

The BLM manages the largest single share of sage-grouse habitat in the United States—nearly 67 million acres of 145 million total acres. The draft plan offers a range of alternatives for sustainable management of these lands. Balancing a consistent management approach across the range while addressing conditions and policies unique to individual states, BLM will be able to work more effectively with state and local managers to protect and improve sagebrush habitats on public lands.  

Alternatives in the proposal build on the most successful components of the plans that the BLM adopted in 2015 and updated in 2019. The draft plan incorporates new sage-grouse conservation science and lessons learned, accommodating changing resources conditions while increasing implementation flexibility. The agency considered nearly 1,900 comments gathered during an initial public scoping period and information shared by state, local, federal, and Tribal partners in more than 100 meetings.  

The BLM will hold 13 public meetings to answer questions and take further comments on the draft alternatives and analysis. Information on public meetings will be posted in the events column on the main page of the BLM website

In addition to actions guided by the greater sage-grouse management plans, the BLM is actively restoring and conserving sagebrush habitat across the West through the Biden Administration’s Investing in America agenda. Annually, the BLM invests approximately $35 million of its congressional appropriation in sagebrush ecosystem projects, supplemented by $123 million from President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and complemented by investments by state and local governments, Tribes, stakeholder groups, and private landowners.   

The draft environmental impact statement and plan amendments will open for public comment on March 15, 2024. The comment period will end on June 13, 2024. More information on how to comment on this draft will be posted at https://www.blm.gov/sagegrouse. A final environmental impact statement is expected this fall, followed by Records of Decision in each state.  

-BLM-

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

 


UPDATE - Oregon Department of Human Services announces that Lawrence Kennedy has been found
Oregon Dept. of Human Services - 03/14/24 7:30 AM

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

Lawrence, age 14, is a child who went missing from La Grande on March 4. He was found March 13. 

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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Firefighters Extinguish Santa Clara area House Fire (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/14/24 5:50 AM
2024-03/4466/170704/Attach0.jpeg
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http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/4466/170704/thumb_Attach0.jpeg

Eugene, OR.  At 12:20 AM Eugene Springfield Fire and Lane Fire Authority responded to the report of a possible house fire on Keiper Ave near Division Ave. Initial responding units found a residential duplex with smoke coming from the attic space.  Fire companies quickly entered both sides of the duplex to search for occupants and locate the fire. Crews found and extinguished fire in the garage. All occupants were accounted for and the fire was placed under control. The fire occurred in Fire Authority’s jurisdiction and they anre investigating the cause of the fire.  There were no injuries reported.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170704/Attach0.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170704/Attach1.jpeg

Firefighters Extinguish Santa Clara area House Fire (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/14/24 4:58 AM
2024-03/4466/170703/Attach0.jpeg
2024-03/4466/170703/Attach0.jpeg
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/4466/170703/thumb_Attach0.jpeg

Eugene, OR.  At 12:20 AM Eugene Springfield Fire and Lane Fire Authority responded to the report of a possible house fire on Keiper Ave near Division Ave. Initial responding units found a residential duplex with smoke coming from the attic space.  Fire companies quickly entered both sides of the duplex to search for occupants and locate the fire. Crews found and extinguished fire in the garage. All occupants were accounted for and the fire was placed under control. The fire occurred in Fire Authority’s jurisdiction and they anre investigating the cause of the fire.  There were no injuries reported.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170703/Attach0.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170703/Attach1.jpeg

Wed. 03/13/24
Homicide Investigation (Siletz OR) **CORRECTIONS ON UPDATE**
Lincoln Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/13/24 5:18 PM

On March 12, 2024 at 9:27 PM, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 400 block of E. Logsden Rd in Siletz, OR on a report of a male stating his mother was deceased. Deputies arrived in the area and located a deceased elderly female near a motor vehicle who had injuries consistent with homicidal violence. Deputies detained the adult male who made the report.

 

The Lincoln County Major Crime Team was activated, as well as members from the Oregon State Police Crime Lab. The investigation is currently ongoing with assistance from the Oregon State Police, the Newport Police Department, and the Lincoln City Police Department. There is no ongoing risk to the public. The suspect and victim names are not being release at this time, pending positive identification and notification of next of kin.

 

Anyone with information relating to this incident should contact Sergeant Jason Spano at 541-270-5067 or jspano@co.lincoln.or.us. Reference case number 24S-04261.

 

On March 12th at 9:55 PM, Judy D. Poe, age 79, was confirmed deceased by deputies with the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office. Ms. Poe had sustained injuries from blunt force trauma to the head. Robert B. Poe, age 56, was detained by law enforcement near the scene. Robert was subsequently interviewed and arrested for Murder in the Second Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. He was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail. 

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office would like to thank and acknowledge the attentive residents of Siletz who reported their observations of suspicious circumstances to law enforcement without delay. This investigation is still ongoing however no further media releases are planned at this time. 

 

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OHA Director visits Willamette Valley as part of regional tours
Oregon Health Authority - 03/13/24 4:40 PM

March 13, 2024

Media contact: Cassie Call, cassie.call@oha.oregon.gov, 503-351-2416

OHA Director visits Willamette Valley as part of regional tours

(Salem, OR) Today, the director of Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Sejal Hathi, MD, MBA, completed a three-day visit to counties in the Willamette Valley to learn firsthand from local leaders, providers and advocates about the challenges facing people in the area.

In this visit, Dr. Hathi met with local public health and mental health officials, non-profit partners, and healthcare providers from the counties of Benton, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Polk, and Yamhill. This is the third of seven regional visits Dr. Hathi is conducting after stepping into the OHA director role.

“The people I’ve met over the past couple of days – from providers to housing support specialists – have reaffirmed for me that you don’t have to be in a clinic to provide care,” said Dr. Hathi. “Care is community and it’s about how we take care of the whole person that will dictate their well-being and their ability to achieve their full potential.”

[Here is a link to the video of what Dr. Hathi said she observed during her visit to the Willamette Valley]

Dr. Hathi ended her time in Lebanon (Linn County) with a tour of Colonia Paz, an affordable housing complex. Colonia Paz follows a developmental model of community-built housing, offering multi-bilingual supportive services in the areas of health, education, and employment. OHA’s Community Partner Outreach Program partners with Colonia Paz through the Healthier Oregon Program, which helps individuals and families to navigate health care services and enroll in the Oregon Health Plan.

Dr. Hathi will spend the next several months visiting all major regions in Oregon – spending time with community leaders, health care providers, Tribal leaders, local public health and mental health officials, and non-profit partners about their biggest needs from the state and the state health agency – to ensure those are represented and addressed as she shapes the agency’s next chapter.

[Here is a link] to B-roll footage, an audio file and still pictures from Dr. Hathi's most recent trip.

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Scam Alert -- Citizens Receiving Fraudulent Calls From Scammers Purporting To Be Police (Photo)
Lincoln City Police - 03/13/24 4:32 PM

The Lincoln City Police have received a number of complaints from citizens receiving a call from someone purporting to be a Lincoln City Police Officer demanding payment regarding an arrest warrant or impending court action. The caller tells the subject they will be arrested unless payment is made, generally through some payment method using gift cards or other payment venue. 

Please know the Lincoln City Police Department and other Law Enforcement agencies WILL NEVER call to notify someone they have an arrest warrant and will never ask for any type of payment for a warrant to be removed. These types of calls have become a common scam type call where the scammer is trying to get personal information or is trying to get money sent to them. If you receive a call like this, do not give out any personal information and do not send any funds. You should ask for the person's name and hang up, and then call to notify us on our non-emergency number (541) 994-3636.

The Lincoln City Police Department want to remind everyone to stay vigilant in keeping your personal information secure and to not send any callers any monies unless you have independently verified the situation.

Submitted by:  Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6142/170698/Enhanced_Media_Release_Patrol_Car_Sunrise.tiff

OHA endorses CDC's new respiratory virus guidance
Oregon Health Authority - 03/13/24 4:14 PM

March 13, 2024

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

OHA endorses CDC’s new respiratory virus guidance

Staying home when sick among recommended steps for preventing COVID-19, flu, RSV, other respiratory viruses

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon health officials are endorsing new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance that codifies recent recommendations for limiting the spread of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV.

Epidemiologists with the Acute and Communicable Disease Prevention Section at OHA’s Public Health Division distributed a statewide Health Alert Network (HAN) advisory to remind clinicians, preparedness staff, laboratories and public health agencies about the new Respiratory Virus Guidance. The CDC launched the guidance March 1.

“This updated guidance represents a milestone in bringing a range of respiratory viruses under a single set of recommendations for preventing transmission in communities, and it aligns with changes made in Oregon in May 2023,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA. “Oregon fully supports this approach for lowering health risks posed by these viruses. While many are ready to move on from any discussion of COVID-19, respiratory viruses are still impacting many of us. If we all take these steps, we can help to keep our loved ones healthy.”

The updated guidance advises people with respiratory symptoms to stay home until they have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications, and their symptoms are improving. They also urge people to protect those around them – older adults, young children and people with weakened immune systems, with disabilities or who are pregnant – by taking additional precautions for the next five days to curb disease spread, including:

  1. Wearing a well-fitting mask.
  2. Taking steps for cleaner air, such as by opening windows, using air purifiers and gathering outdoors.
  3. Keeping a distance from others.
  4. Enhancing hygiene practices, such as covering cough and sneezes, and washing hands.
  5. Getting tested to inform your actions to prevent spread to others.

The updated guidance also recommends people stay up to date with immunizations, which are available for COVID-19, influenza and RSV.

The isolation recommendations outlined above are intended for people in most settings across Oregon, but not in health care settings. Recommendations regarding COVID-19 in health care settings are available here.

More information about updated federal guidance is available on a Background for CDC’s Updated Respiratory Virus Guidance page, and on an FAQ page. CDC guidance regarding COVID-19 in health care settings is available here.

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Cherry blossoms illuminated at State Capitol State Park March 16-April 6
Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept. - 03/13/24 4:00 PM

SALEM, Ore.—Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will host “Yozakura,” night viewing of the Akebono cherry blossoms, March 16 through April 6 in the North Mall at State Capitol State Park. 

Parks staff will illuminate the cherry blossoms with Japanese lanterns and lights nightly 6-9 p.m. Visitors may bring blankets, camping chairs or an evening picnic to enjoy under the canopy of the illuminated trees. 

The lanterns and lights create a striking and beautiful scene inside the park at night.

The Focal Point Photography Club of Dallas will be in the park March 23 at 7 p.m. to help photographers capture the perfect shot of the illuminated blossoms. SamaZama, a koto and cello duo, will perform in the park March 30 at 7 p.m. The duo will also perform March 16 as part of the Cherry Blossom Day sponsored by the Oregon State Capitol Foundation and the City of Salem.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will livestream the cherry blossoms on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OregonParks beginning March 16 during the day and evening through April 6. 

Park staff ask that tree limbs and blossoms are left as is so everyone can view them throughout the bloom. Alcohol is not allowed in State Capitol State Park (without permits) and the park closes at 10 p.m. 

For more information on events at the Capitol, call Visitor Services at 503-986-1388 or visit the events page .

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Oregon Division of Financial Regulation to host Scam Jam March 26 in Salem (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 03/13/24 3:08 PM
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Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR), along with Oregon AARP, is hosting a fraud prevention workshop, Scam Jam, on Tuesday, March 26, in Salem. The free event will be held from 8:30 a.m. to noon at Roth’s Catering and Event Center, 1130 Wallace Road NW in Salem.

Joining DFR and Oregon AARP at the event will be representatives from the Construction Contractors Board, Federal Trade Commission, Oregon Department of Justice, and the Aging and Disabilities Services division of the Oregon Department of Human Services. No registration is required.

Those attending will hear from experts and learn how to spot scams and gain prevention tips and tools to protect against fraud.

TK Keen, DFR’s administrator, will talk about the division’s investigations into Ponzi schemes while others will present about spotting imposter scams and identity theft, disaster and fraud, and the six signs to identify a scam. 

“Our office investigates and takes action against a significant number of investor fraud and senior fraud cases each year, but that is only part of the solution,” Keen said. “Through conversations and education, we can empower Oregonians to recognize the signs of fraud and take steps to protect themselves.”

Breakfast is provided. 

If you believe you may have been scammed, DFR has resources to help you. Consumer advocates are available by calling 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or emailing .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. DFR’s website is also a good resource for information or help.

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




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1073/170693/DFR-logo-blue.jpg

Mid-Valley Commercial Construction in Salem graduates from Oregon OSHA program, demonstrating excellence in workplace safety (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 03/13/24 2:50 PM
DCBS logo
DCBS logo
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Salem – Mid-Valley Commercial Construction Inc., a locally owned union subcontractor focusing on commercial framing, drywall, taping, acoustical ceilings, and insulation, has achieved a milestone in its ongoing commitment to workplace safety and health: graduation from Oregon OSHA’s Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP).

SHARP, primarily set up to help small- and mid-sized businesses, coaches employers on how to effectively manage workplace safety and health. The program encourages Oregon employers to work with their employees to identify and correct hazards and to continuously improve. In turn, companies are recognized for their success in reaching specific benchmarks during the five-year program. An employer may graduate from SHARP after five years of participation. 

Mid-Valley Commercial Construction, based in Salem, has completed its SHARP journey, graduating in December 2023. The SHARP evaluation of the Salem-based company included multiple visits by Oregon OSHA consultants to job sites. The company demonstrated a high level of commitment to safety and health training for its workers. It also made excellent use of job hazard analysis, a method of identifying, assessing, and controlling hazards associated with specific jobs. And it consistently maintained a days away, restricted, or transferred (DART) rate well below the industry average.

“It is evident that ongoing commitment to employee safety and health from all levels of the company is expressed with leadership and field personnel,” stated the SHARP evaluation.

Mid-Valley Commercial Construction’s commitment to the program was unwavering. Dennis Cox, the company’s former safety manager, initiated the company’s involvement in SHARP in 2018, according to Mike Brunenkant, safety manager for the company and a certified construction health and safety technician. 

Brunenkant said the SHARP evaluations and consultation services helped him “navigate the ever-changing landscape of COVID regulations, ensuring that our safety program remained robust.” He added, “Having graduated from SHARP, Mid-Valley anticipates continuing our relationship with Oregon OSHA to prioritize the safety of our employees.”   

Jesse Vigil, president and owner of Mid-Valley Commercial Construction, said: “Our team’s safety and health is a top priority. When our employees are safe and healthy, they can perform at their best, contributing to the success of the company.” 

The benefits of the SHARP program, which is part of Oregon OSHA’s consultation services, include lower injury and illness rates, decreased workers’ compensation costs, increased employee morale, and lower product losses. 

Learn more about SHARP and Oregon OSHA’s free consultation services, which include hazard assessments, recommendations to control and eliminate hazards, written program evaluation, and hands-on training. Consultations involve no fault, no citations, and no penalties. Oregon OSHA consultants in workplace safety, industrial hygiene, and ergonomics can help employers reduce accidents and related costs and develop comprehensive programs to manage 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, go to osha.oregon.gov.

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, go to www.oregon.gov/dcbs/.

 

 




Attached Media Files: DCBS logo , Oregon OSHA logo , SHARP graduation photo

Mid-Valley Eagles Soar: Celebrating Scouting's Impact in Salem, OR - April 12, 2024 (Photo)
VanNatta Public Relations - 03/13/24 11:54 AM
Olivia Sproed, the first female Eagle Scount in Salem served as the emcee at the 2023 event.
Olivia Sproed, the first female Eagle Scount in Salem served as the emcee at the 2023 event.
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SALEM, OR – Mid-Valley Eagles Soar, a celebration of Scouting's community impact, will recognize and honor Eagle Scouts from Marion, Polk, and Linn Counties on Friday, April 12, 2024, at the Willamette Heritage Center in Salem. The social hour and silent auction starts at 5:30 p.m., with an opening program and dinner at 6 p.m. Mid-Valley Eagles Soar is hosted by the Santiam River District of the Cascade Pacific Council. 

This year marks the second annual Mid-Valley Eagles Soar event. In addition to celebrating Mid-Valley's most recent Eagle Scouts class and their accomplishments, this event will raise funds to help extend Scouting to more neighborhoods, school communities and towns in the Willamette Valley. Funds from last year's event helped launch Troop 9051 for girls in Lebanon, Pack 584 in Albany, and Pack 7019 in Salem. Over 20 Eagle Scout projects will be showcased around the room to highlight Scouting's community impact. 

Grace Parry and Juliette Lloyd, two of Salem's first female Eagle Scouts, will emcee the event. Other scouts presenting include Marshall Morrison, who overcame a disability to earn the rank of Eagle Scout, and 8-year-old Aurora Logan, who will share how Scouting has provided fun adventures and inspired her to become an Eagle Scout. One Eagle Scout will receive the first-ever Mid-Valley Eagles Soar College Scholarship. 

This event will feature silent and oral auction items, all donated by local businesses and community leaders. While the event is free to attend, donations are strongly encouraged. All donations support local Scouting programs and are tax deductible. Those interested in attending can RSVP by registering online at: 

https://cpcbsa.org/upcoming-events/eagles-soar/

About Santiam Rivers District: The Santiam District of the Cascade Pacific Council, BSA, serves the Amity, Cascade, Central, Central Linn, Dallas, Dayton, Falls City, Gervais, Greater Albany, Jefferson, Lebanon, McMinnville, Mt. Angel, North Santiam, Perrydale, Salem-Keizer, Scio, Sheridan, Silver Falls, Sweet Home and Willamina school districts.

About  Cascade Pacific Council: Cascade Pacific Council of the Boy Scouts of America (CPCBSA) serves approximately 7500 boys and girls in NW Oregon and SW Washington through exceptional programming that gets youth to "go play outdoors." From summer camps to S.T.E.M. workshops, our inclusive programs grow leaders of tomorrow who are connected to nature, family, and community. Designed for families with children ages 5 – 20, our programs encourage family participation in activities, including summer outdoor adventure camps located on the Oregon Coast and Cascade Mountains, year-round experiential learning events, and civic service. Learn more at cpcbsa.org.




Attached Media Files: Scoutseventflyer , Olivia Sproed, the first female Eagle Scount in Salem served as the emcee at the 2023 event.

Western Oregon University bridges workforce gaps through innovative career development program (Photo)
Western Oregon University - 03/13/24 11:33 AM
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MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University, in partnership with Uplift Oregon, and additional sponsoring state agencies, introduces the Career Mobility Accounting Program, which is a groundbreaking professional development initiative exclusively for employees working for the State of Oregon. Specifically, it provides professional development opportunities for state employees, allowing them to obtain industry-valued knowledge and skills for Accountant I & II and Tax Auditing positions within the state at no cost.

The program has been purposefully designed to tackle the issue of filling vacant and challenging-to-fill positions by leveraging the existing talent pool within the state. It provides individuals with opportunities to broaden their skills, empowering them to seamlessly align with the requirements of these positions.

“Career Mobility supports the needs of the state workforce and provides no-cost education and guided support for state employees to develop professional skills to advance their careers,” said Whitney Johnson, Career Mobility program manager with Uplift Oregon. 

Western has partnered with Uplift Oregon to offer the instruction for the program. The following agencies are sponsoring partners: Service Employees International Union Local 503, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services, the Oregon Department of Human Services, the Oregon Health Authority, Oregon Housing and Community Services, the Department of Consumer and Business Services, the Department of Revenue, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

“We are thrilled to extend this professional growth opportunity to our state agency partners while supporting the workforce needs in our region by nurturing much-needed skillsets, continuous development, and success," said Western Oregon University Provost Jose Coll. 

Upon successful completion of the program, participants will be qualified to apply for positions at the state within the accounting and tax fields and are encouraged to fulfill a minimum of two years of continued service. Participants will work with state agency HR associates to bolster their professional materials, explore open positions, and prepare for application and interview processes within their new desired fields of employment at various state agencies with vacancies.

There are approximately 30 participants in the 2024 cohort from a variety of state agencies. For more information about the Career Mobility Program visit the Uplift Oregon Website.

 

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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.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1107/170688/Career_Mobility_PR.JPG

Special funding boosts grants to protect threatened private forests through Forest Legacy Program
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/13/24 10:56 AM

SALEM, Ore.—A grant program administered by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is now taking applications to protect privately-owned forests from development pressure.

“The Forest Legacy Program provides grants to protect private forests either through a conservation easement or outright purchase,” said Christina Helige, ODF’s Forest Legacy Program (FLP) Coordinator.

The nation-wide program run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service will get $700 million over ten years from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). This is in addition to the regular funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) which last year’s nationwide allocation was $88 million. Each state designates an agency to administer the program and take applications and for Oregon it’s the Department of Forestry.

“There are two important application deadlines,” said Helige. “The first deadline is March 22 for IRA Round 2 projects and the second round for regular LWCF is June 28.” 

Like most grant programs, there are many rules and requirements to follow. Two of the most important—and sometimes challenging—is that applications typically require a funding match of 25 percent of the grant amount, and an entity—typically a government one—has to administer and manage the land covered by the application. 

“Applications are submitted as a partnership with the private landowner and a nonprofit and/or, local,state, Tribal or other government entity,” said Helige.

One recent example of a successful application was the 2023 Minam River Wildlife Area acquisition in northeast Oregon.

“That project’s key partners were the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Manulife Investment Management Timber and Agriculture Inc. and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Their application received $9.75 million to purchase and conserve a combined 15,573 acres with 10,964 acres funded from the FLP,” said Helige. “ODF administered the application process and helped complete the grant.”

For grant applications and instructions go to the application link: ForestLegacyProgramApplicationInstructions.pdf (oregon.gov)

For questions on grant proposals and applications contact istina.Helige@odf.oregon.gov">Christina.Helige@odf.oregon.gov


OHCS to launch first phase of the Homeowner Assistance and Reconstruction Program on March 25
Oregon Housing and Community Services - 03/13/24 10:46 AM

March 13, 2024 

Call center and local partners will be available to help 2020 Labor Day Disaster survivors with application process 

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is going to launch the intake phase of the Homeowner Assistance and Reconstruction Program (HARP) for survivors of the 2020 Labor Day wildfires and straight-line winds on March 25. Phase 1 of HARP will help low- and moderate-income homeowners who still need assistance to repair, rebuild, or replace their homes.  

Beginning on March 25, applicants can fill out an Eligibility Questionnaire on the re.oregon.gov website where eligibility requirements are listed. OHCS will notify applicants who are eligible to apply for the first phase of HARP. Those who may not be eligible during this first phase may qualify in later phases if there are still funds available.  

“We are excited to announce this first step in the process to get survivors the help they need to fix existing homes or get new ones,” said Alex Campbell, chief external affairs officer of the Disaster Recovery and Resilience Division at OHCS. “We have been working with local partners to make resources available that we hope will make the application process easier for survivors.” 

OHCS opened a call center, which is ready to take questions. Applicants can call or text 1-877-510-6800 or 541-250-0938. They can also email t@oregon.org">housingsupport@oregon.org. Additionally, OHCS is partnering with community-based organizations to provide in-person support. A full list of these partners is on the re.oregon.gov website. 

Survivors can help make the process as smooth as possible by making sure they have the correct documents on hand when they are invited to apply. No documents are needed to complete the Eligibility Questionnaire.  

HARP applicants need the following: 

  • Personal identification such as a photo ID or driver’s license (U.S. citizenship is not required.)   
  • Proof applicant is the homeowner, and the damaged home was their primary residence   
  • Records of damages from the 2020 Labor Day Disasters  
  • Proof of the applicant’s current income  
  • Receipts of recovery expenses for repair, replacement, or construction  
  • Property tax and mortgage information, if applicable  
  • Record of any disaster assistance payments, loans, or insurance benefits received  
  • Power of attorney, if applicable  

HARP is part of ReOregon, which is funded by a $422 million Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). To stay up to date on ReOregon programs in various stages of development, survivors can sign up for email updates and visit re.oregon.gov. 

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 

13 de marzo de 2024 

OHCS iniciará la primera fase del Programa de Asistencia y Reconstrucción para Propietarios de Viviendas el 25 de marzo 

Un centro de llamadas y organizaciones locales ayudarán a los sobrevivientes de los incendios del Día del Trabajo del 2020 con el proceso de solicitud 

SALEM, Oregon - El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios (OHCS, por sus siglas en inglés) iniciará el 25 de marzo la fase de admisión del Programa de Asistencia y Reconstrucción para Propietarios de Viviendas (HARP, por sus siglas en inglés) para los sobrevivientes de los incendios forestales y vientos huracanados del Día del Trabajo de 2020. La primera fase de este programa ayudará a los propietarios con ingresos bajos y moderados que aún necesiten ayuda para reparar, reconstruir o sustituir sus viviendas.   

A partir del 25 de marzo, los solicitantes pueden llenar un cuestionario de elegibilidad en el sitio de internet re.oregon.gov, donde se encuentran los requisitos de elegibilidad. OHCS notificará a los solicitantes que son elegibles para llenar una solicitud para la primera fase de HARP. Aquellos que no sean elegibles durante esta primera fase pueden calificar en fases posteriores si todavía hay fondos disponibles.   

"Estamos muy contentos de anunciar este primer paso en el proceso para que los sobrevivientes reciban la ayuda que necesitan para reparar su vivienda existente o conseguir otra nueva", dijo Alex Campbell, director de asuntos exteriores de la División de Manejo y Recuperación de Desastres de OHCS. "Hemos estado trabajando con organizaciones locales para poner a disposición recursos que esperamos faciliten el proceso de solicitud para los sobrevivientes".  

OHCS abrió un centro de llamadas, que está listo para tomar preguntas. Los solicitantes pueden llamar o enviar un mensaje de texto al 1-877-510-6800 o al 541-250-0938. También pueden enviar un correo electrónico a t@oregon.org">housingsupport@oregon.org. Además, OHCS se ha asociado con organizaciones comunitarias para proporcionar apoyo en persona. La lista completa de estos socios se encuentra en el sitio de internet re.oregon.gov. 

Los sobrevivientes pueden ayudar a que el proceso sea lo más sencillo posible asegurándose de que tienen a mano los documentos correctos cuando se les invite a presentar la solicitud. No se necesitan documentos para rellenar el Cuestionario de Elegibilidad.   

Los solicitantes de HARP necesitan lo siguiente: 

  • Identificación personal, como un documento de identidad con fotografía o un permiso de conducir (no se requiere la ciudadanía estadounidense).  
  • Prueba de que el solicitante es el propietario de la vivienda y de que la vivienda dañada era su residencia principal 
  • Registros de daños causados por los desastres del Día del Trabajo 2020   
  • Prueba de los ingresos actuales del solicitante 
  • Recibos de gastos de recuperación por reparación, sustitución o construcción  
  • Información sobre impuestos de propiedad e hipotecas, si procede 
  • Registro de cualquier pago de asistencia por desastre, préstamos o beneficios de seguro recibidos 
  • Poder notarial, si procede   

HARP forma parte de ReOregon, que está financiado por una subvención en bloque para el desarrollo comunitario y la recuperación tras catástrofes de $422 millones que fue otorgada al estado por el Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de Estados Unidos (HUD, por sus siglas en inglés). Para mantenerse al día sobre los programas de ReOregon que se encuentran en diversas etapas de desarrollo, los sobrevivientes pueden inscribirse para recibir actualizaciones por correo electrónico y visitar re.oregon.gov. 

Acerca del Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregon (OHCS)   

OHCS es la agencia de financiación de viviendas de Oregón. La agencia estatal proporciona apoyo financiero y de programas para crear y preservar oportunidades de vivienda a precio asequible y de calidad para los habitantes de Oregón con ingresos bajos y moderados. OHCS administra programas que proporcionan estabilización de la vivienda. OHCS ofrece estos programas principalmente a través de subvenciones, contratos y acuerdos de préstamo con organizaciones locales y proveedores comunitarios. Para obtener más información, visite: oregon.gov/ohcs 


Missing child alert -- Lawrence Kennedy is missing and is believed to be in danger (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Human Services - 03/13/24 10:06 AM
Lawrence Kennedy
Lawrence Kennedy
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(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Lawrence Kennedy, age 14, a child in foster care who went missing from La Grande on March 4. He is believed to be in danger.

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

Lawrence is suspected to be in Baker City or La Grande. 

Name: Lawrence Kennedy
Pronouns: He/him
Date of birth: Oct. 7, 2009
Height: 130 pounds
Weight: 5-foot-10
Hair: Brown
Eye color: Blue
La Grande Police Department Case #LG 24-0197
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2015337

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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Attached Media Files: Lawrence Kennedy

Respect nesting areas to protect threatened snowy plover March 15 - Sept. 15 (Photo)
Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept. - 03/13/24 8:37 AM
Plovers and nest
Plovers and nest
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OREGON COAST, OR – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and Siuslaw National Forest remind visitors that it is plover nesting season on the Oregon coast March 15 to Sept. 15 ­— visitors can help recovery efforts for the threatened western snowy plover by observing recreation restrictions in designated plover areas. 

Sensitive plover nesting areas will be roped off or identified by signs with rules and limits, such as staying on the wet sand, to help protect the small shorebirds and their exposed nests during this crucial period. Recreation restrictions occur in designated plover management areas: stretches of beach along the coastline where plovers nest or might nest. These areas combined make up about 40 miles of Oregon's 362 miles of shoreline

Seasonal recreation restrictions have helped protect these small birds that nest on open sand. Nests, and especially chicks, are well-camouflaged. During the nesting season, human disturbances can flush adult plovers away from their nests as they attempt to defend their young. Left alone too long, or too often, eggs or chicks can die from exposure, predators or people. 

Reminders for recreation on designated plover beaches March 15-Sept. 15:

  • The following are not permitted: dogs (even on a leash), driving a vehicle, riding a bicycle, camping, burning wood, flying kites or operating drones.
  • Foot and equestrian traffic is permitted below the high-tide line on wet, packed sand.
  • Respect signs and barriers to protect nesting habitat.

“We’re making great strides in reversing the decline of this species,” said Cindy Burns, Siuslaw National Forest wildlife biologist. “But it takes all of us, so we urge people to do their part to understand nesting season rules and to share the beach this spring and summer.”

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed western snowy plovers as a threatened species in 1993, when officials counted only 45 breeding adults. The numbers of breeding adults have steadily increased since then due to ongoing efforts.  Officials counted 433 during the breeding season survey in 2023.

“We appreciate visitors' support in keeping these shorebirds safe in the combined 40 miles of protected area along the coast. We invite visitors to enjoy permitted recreation in those areas or to recreate without seasonal restrictions on the hundreds of miles of beaches not designated as plover nesting areas,” said Laurel Hillmann, ocean shore specialist for Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

More information on the snowy plover, including detailed maps of nesting sites, can be found on the Oregon State Parks website (oregon.gov/plovers) and on the Siuslaw National Forest website (https://t.ly/AKPAN). Visitors to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area can review Off-highway Vehicle (OHV) maps at its website to identify unrestricted recreation areas and information on riding motor vehicles on the sand. 

New plover activity   

The increase in plover numbers may result in nesting occurring in new or historical nesting sites. For example, visitors to Sand Lake Recreation Area may see small roped off areas near the lake’s inlet to protect active nests, and may encounter plovers on the beach. Beachgoers are encouraged to protect these birds by restricting recreation activities to wet sand areas, avoiding roped off nesting areas, packing all trash out and keeping dogs on leash. 


Background on plover protections

Several land managers oversee beach activity for plover protection, primarily the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD).

Habitat loss from invasive plants — as well as human disturbances, including litter and discarded food scraps that attract predators — have contributed to the birds’ decline. The Oregon Dunes Restoration Collaborative, saveoregondunes.org, is working with land managers on a restoration strategy and to raise public awareness about the need to restore the dunes ecosystem for western snowy plovers, rare plants and animals and the unique recreation opportunities offered here. 

Editors: photos are available at this link.




Attached Media Files: Plovers and nest , Plover and chicks

DPSST Criminal Justice Moral Fitness Workgroup Meeting Scheduled 3-20-2024 - Update
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 03/13/24 8:20 AM

CRIMINAL JUSTICE MORAL FITNESS

WORKGROUP MEETING

SCHEDULED

Notice of Scheduled Meeting

The DPSST Criminal Justice Moral Fitness Workgroup will meet at 1:00pm on March 20th, 2024, in the Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Jennifer Howald at 503-551-3258.

Effective Jan. 1, 2024, the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training will be live streaming all public meetings via YouTube. Meetings will no longer be streamed on Facebook. To view the Workgroup's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items 

1. Introductions

2. Discretionary Disqualifiers and Processes – Moral Fitness Definitions

    Carried over from January 29, 2024

3. Recent Legislation and Current Practices

    Carried over from January 29, 2024

4. Ineligibility Periods

5. Deferred Professional Standards Cases and DPSST Jurisdiction

6. Next Workgroup Meeting: TBD

 

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law. This meeting is being streamed live on the DPSST YouTube page and will be recorded in the form of minutes. Discussion of issues will only be conducted by workgroup members. 


Crews Extinguish Equipment Fire At Action Rent-All (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/13/24 2:02 AM
2024-03/4466/170680/Attach1.jpeg
2024-03/4466/170680/Attach1.jpeg
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Eugene, OR.  At 12:54 AM on March 13th, several passing motorists reported an unknown fire at Action Rent-All located at 151 River Ave in Eugene. Eugene Springfield Fire responded with 2 engines, 1 truck, and 1 chief, finding a scissor lift fully engulfed. Several other pieces of equipment were threatened in the area of the fire, but were not damaged. During extinguishment, crews also discovered a propane tank off gassing. Crews extinguished the lift fire and allowed the propane to cool to a point it was no longer a hazard. Firefighters worked to prevent toxic run secondary to the fire from entering the storm drain. The ESF fire marshals office is investigating the fire. There were no injuries reported




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170680/Attach1.jpeg

Tue. 03/12/24
Fatal Crash - HWY 58 - Klamath County
Oregon State Police - 03/12/24 3:56 PM

Klamath County, Ore. 11 Mar. 2024- On Monday, March 11, 2024, at 7:50 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-58, near milepost 68, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Kenworth commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Malkit Singh (28) of Liberty Lake (WA), was traveling eastbound when the trailer slid into the westbound travel lane.  A westbound Toyota Tacoma, operated by Michael Edward Davis (57) of Dallas, struck the CMV trailer.

The operator of the Kenworth (Singh) suffered minor injuries.

The operator of the Toyota (M. Davis) was declared deceased at the scene.  A passenger in the Toyota, Kelly Jo Davis (53) of Dallas, suffered minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately 7 hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by ODOT.

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


3/12/24 - LCSO Case #24-1246 - Attempted kidnapping in the Dexter/Lowell area (Photo)
Lane Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/12/24 3:26 PM
Dexter-Lowell Safety Info
Dexter-Lowell Safety Info
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Last night, a juvenile was approached by a vehicle while walking in the area of Barbre Road and Rogers Lane. The driver told the juvenile he knew her parents and was there to give her a ride home, neither of which was true. The juvenile began walking back towards the Dexter Market, and the vehicle sped off. Deputies became aware hours later when the information was found on Facebook. They patrolled the area, but did not find a matching vehicle and subject.  

The vehicle is described as a red SUV similar to a Ford Escape. The driver is described as a scruffy, skinny white male, mid-40s, with reddish-blonde curly hair. 

If you observe a matching vehicle and subject or have more information on this case, please contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4150 option 1. 




Attached Media Files: Dexter-Lowell Safety Info

03/03/24 - LCSO Cases #24-1003, 24-1021 - Deputies assigned to West Lane arrest two on multiple mail thefts, car break ins (Photo)
Lane Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/12/24 3:06 PM
West Lane Arrests
West Lane Arrests
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03/03/24 - LCSO Cases #24-1003, 24-1021 - Deputies assigned to West Lane arrest two on multiple mail thefts, car break ins

Beginning on February 25th, two suspects began stealing mail from over a dozen mailboxes and broke into a car in the Mapleton area. Community members helped Lane County Sheriff’s deputies identify possible suspects and the involved vehicle through security video and photos. On February 27th, KEZI reported on the incidents, which led many victims to come forward that had not yet reported thefts to the Sheriff’s Office. On February 28th, both suspects, Matthew Curtis Berkner Sr. and Daniel Kenneth Frye, were located and arrested in Florence on unrelated cases. 

Deputies contacted over a dozen victims and several witnesses over the following days and developed probable cause to arrest both suspects, who were still being held in the Lane County Jail.  On March 3rd, deputies added charges of Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle, Theft 1, Criminal Mischief 2, and Theft 3.  Additional charges may be added, as mail theft can be charged federally by the US Postal Inspectors.

Mail theft and car break-ins are both crimes of opportunity we can all take steps to prevent.  We recommend residents install locking mailboxes, check mail frequently (and have a trusted neighbor check your mail when you are gone), and don’t leave valuables in your car even when parked in your driveway.  Motion lights and home security cameras are also very helpful in both preventing crime in your neighborhood, and assisting deputies with investigations. 

Thanks to the many residents who helped on this case. 




Attached Media Files: West Lane Arrests

State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council Will Meet
State of Oregon - 03/12/24 2:52 PM

Salem, Oregon - The State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council will meet at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 19, 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:   Tuesday, March 19, 2024, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

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

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 Friday, March 15 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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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://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NWMyYWQxMmYtOTY0MC00NmYwLTg5MzEtODZlNGVhZWU3YmVh%40thread.v2/0?context=%7B%22Tid%22%3A%22aa3f6932-fa7c-47b4-a0ce-a598cad161cf%22%2C%22Oid%22%3A%22be56eae9-c276-4d4a-8452-2b53b6cc0f6c%22%2C%22IsBroadcastMeeting%22%3Atrue%2C%22role%22%3A%22a%22%7D&btype=a&role=a

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

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


Portland Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Murder Committed Amid Violent Robbery Spree
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 03/12/24 2:46 PM

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison today for murdering a Milwaukie, Oregon man in his home amid a violent robbery spree that spanned several months and targeted at least six local businesses.

Keandre Dshawn LaMarcus Brown, 27, was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $29,991 in restitution to multiple victims.

“Gun violence continues to be one of the greatest public safety threats in our community,” said Steven T. Mygrant, Chief of the Narcotics and Criminal Enterprises Unit of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon. “Keandre Brown and his accomplices’ string of armed robberies across the Portland area placed many innocent community members at significant risk.”

“Within months of completing a five-year prison sentence for attempted robbery, Keandre Brown went on a three-month crime spree, affecting over 20 victims, and brutally killing one. He used weapons, drugs, and fear to wreak havoc on our streets,” said Aubree M. Schwartz, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. “Today’s significant sentence removes this dangerous individual from our community and highlights the tenacity of the FBI and our law enforcement partners to identify and apprehend criminals like him who threaten public safety.”

“I was among the group of first responders who arrived on the scene of Keandre Brown’s home invasion robbery after his victim called 911 screaming and begging for his life. After gunshots rang out on the line with our dispatchers, we saw firsthand the tragic result of this brutal murder,” said Luke Strait, Chief of the Milwaukie Police Department. “In the years that have followed, investigators from Milwaukie Police, the FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office have worked tirelessly on what would become one of the most exhaustive investigations and prosecutions our region has seen in the last decade. Our criminal justice system has worked diligently and effectively to bring justice for this victim, his family, and the entire Milwaukie community.”

According to court documents, in the summer of 2016, Brown teamed up with an accomplice, Keith Bryon Woody Jr., 31, also of Portland, to engage in a series of armed robberies targeting multiple businesses in and around Portland. On August 2, 2016, the pair entered and robbed Paulsen’s Pharmacy on NE Sandy Boulevard in Portland. Both brandished firearms during the robbery, threatened numerous employees and customers, including by pointing a gun at the pharmacy manager’s head, and made off with controlled substances, cash, and several personal property items including wallets, credit cards, and phones.

Two weeks later, on August 13, 2016, Brown and Woody entered and robbed Fairley’s Pharmacy on NE Sandy Boulevard in Portland. The pair again brandished firearms, ordered employees and customers to the floor at gunpoint and zip-tied them, and proceeded to steal eight pill bottles that together contained approximately 1,600 Oxycodone pills.

Brown’s spree continued on August 31, 2016, when he and two accomplices entered and robbed the Lighthouse Deli on SE César Chávez Boulevard in Portland. Brown and his accomplices brandished firearms, zip-tied an employee, and stole cash as well as several wallets, credit cards, and phones from nearby employees and customers.

On September 5, 2016, after several days of planning, Brown, Woody, and multiple accomplices carried out a home invasion robbery targeting a Milwaukie man they believed possessed large quantities of cocaine and cash. The group forcibly entered the residence through a rear door and confronted the homeowner, who quickly retreated into a bathroom and called 911. Brown and Woody, each armed with semi-automatic firearms, positioned themselves outside the bathroom door where the homeowner had barricaded himself, while their accomplices searched the residence. Brown and Woody then fired their respective handguns multiple times at the bathroom door, penetrating the door and killing the homeowner.

Following the home invasion robbery and murder, Brown, with the assistance of others, carried out two additional armed robberies on a single day. On October 18, 2016, Brown and an accomplice entered and robbed a Plaid Pantry convenience store on NE Sandy Boulevard in Portland. The pair made off with cash, tobacco products, and various personal property items. Later the same day, Brown and an accomplice entered and robbed a Red Roof Inn on NE 82nd Avenue in Portland. The pair zip-tied an employee and threatened her to turn over cash but left empty handed after finding an empty cash register.

Investigators later connected Brown and Woody to an additional armed robbery of a pharmacy in Vancouver, Washington, on August 22, 2016, during which they threatened employees at gunpoint and made off with Oxycodone pills.

On October 20, 2016, U.S. Marshals arrested Brown and Woody traveling together in a vehicle. Both possessed firearms at the time of their arrest. Soon after, Brown was transferred to Clark County, Washington to face trial on charges of first-degree robbery, second-degree assault, and unlawful possession of a firearm. Brown was convicted on September 11, 2017, and later sentenced to 360 months in Washington State prison.

On November 4, 2020, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a multi-count indictment charging Brown, Woody, and several other accomplices for conspiring with one another to interfere with commerce by threats or violence, possessing firearms in furtherance of crimes of violence, and causing death through the use of a firearm.

Later, on July 11, 2023, in a separate criminal case, Brown was charged by criminal information with intentionally killing while engaged in drug trafficking. The same day, Brown pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiring with others to interfere with commerce by threats or violence and intentionally killing while engaged in drug trafficking, resolving both of his federal cases.

This case was investigated by the FBI and Milwaukie Police Department with assistance from the Portland Police Bureau, Oregon State Police Crime Lab, Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office, and Vancouver Police Department. It was prosecuted by Lewis S. Burkhart and Thomas H. Edmonds, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This prosecution is the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the U.S. by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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Attached Media Files: PDF Release

3 families displaced after 2-alarm apartment fire (Photo)
Marion County Fire District No. 1 - 03/12/24 1:30 PM
2024-03/6602/170659/apartment_fire_4.jpg
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Marion County Fire District No. 1 responded to a 2-alarm Apartment fire around 9:40 this morning at the Amber Park Apartments located in the 200 block of Colt Lane NE. Initial reports stated heavy fire from the second story back exterior of a 2-story complex with the possibility of a child still inside and audible smoke detectors.  The first responding engine arrived in under four minutes and immediately went into rescue mode allowing the engine company to enter the fire building without back-up. No occupants were found in any apartment and the fire was under control around 10:20. Unfortunately, a family cat was discovered deceased from the fire. No other injuries were reported. 

Marion County Fire District No. 1 was assisted by Salem Fire Department, Keizer Fire District and Marion County Sheriff's Office. The fire is currently under investigation by the District’s Fire Investigation team. Three families were displaced by the fire, and they are currently receiving assistance from Red Cross. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6602/170659/apartment_fire_4.jpg , 2024-03/6602/170659/apartment_fire_3.jpg , 2024-03/6602/170659/apartment_fire_2.jpg , 2024-03/6602/170659/apartment_fire_1.jpg

Pacific Power Foundation announces grants to support Umpqua Valley arts and cultural organizations
Pacific Power - 03/12/24 1:13 PM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018

Newsroom

Pacific Power Foundation announces grants to support Umpqua Valley arts and cultural organizations

Funding helps organizations foster creative expression and enrich local culture in their communities 

 

ROSEBURG, Ore. (March 12, 2024) — Local organizations that deliver music, theater, community festivals and connections to local history are essential to their communities. They create beauty, join people together across cultures, generate jobs and nurture the creativity needed to solve complex problems. To support this crucial work, the Pacific Power Foundation is donating more than $110,000 in new grant funding across the three states it serves. 

The grants will help fund a variety of projects, including free arts events and education; community celebrations of cultural heritage; multilingual performances for kids; and programs for Indigenous students, rural youth and incarcerated adults. 

“Local programs like these are fundamental to the vibrancy and resilience of the communities we serve, and they nourish and inspire all of us,” said Sam Carter, Pacific Power regional business manager. “We honor and appreciate these vitally important organizations.”

This recent round of grants focused on art and culture is one of the foundation’s four annual grant cycles. 

The following three grants, totaling $7,200, were given to local organizations supporting communities in the Umpqua Valley:

Oakland Public Library to help expand the library collection and create programs for everyone in the Oakland community, including those who can’t afford these resources on their own. 

Wildlife Safari to provide students with free field trips and “Bring the Zoo to You” presentations that help them learn about wildlife conservation and preservation of the park’s native and exotic animal populations. 

The FISH of Roseburg food pantry to construct a storage shed for materials and free up warehouse space for food storage. 

About the Pacific Power Foundation:

The Pacific Power Foundation is part of the PacifiCorp Foundation, one of the largest utility-endowed foundations in the U.S. The foundation was created by PacifiCorp, an energy company that serves over 2 million customers across a diverse six-state region in the West as Rocky Mountain Power (Utah, Wyoming and Idaho) and Pacific Power (Oregon, Washington and California). The foundation’s mission, through charitable investments, is to support the growth and vitality of the communities served by Rocky Mountain Power and Pacific Power. Since it started in 1988, the PacifiCorp Foundation has awarded more than $60 million to nonprofit organizations. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net/foundation.

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Pacific Power Foundation announces Arts and Culture grant for South Coast region
Pacific Power - 03/12/24 1:11 PM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018

Newsroom

Pacific Power Foundation announces Arts and Culture grant for South Coast region

Funding helps organizations foster creative expression and enrich local culture in their communities 

 

COOS BAY, Ore. (March 12, 2024) — Local organizations that deliver music, theater, community festivals and connections to local history are essential to their communities. They create beauty, join people together across cultures, generate jobs and nurture the creativity needed to solve complex problems. To support this crucial work, the Pacific Power Foundation is donating more than $110,000 in new grant funding across the three states it serves. 

The grants will help fund a variety of projects, including free arts events and education; community celebrations of cultural heritage; multilingual performances for kids; and programs for Indigenous students, rural youth and incarcerated adults. 

“Local programs like these are fundamental to the vibrancy and resilience of the communities we serve, and they nourish and inspire all of us,” said Sam Carter, Pacific Power regional business manager. “We honor and appreciate these vitally important organizations.”

This recent round of grants focused on art and culture is one of the foundation’s four annual grant cycles. 

In Coos Bay, the Marshfield Pioneer Cemetery received a $2,500 grant to stabilize and repair 74 historic gravestones critically in need of treatment to prevent further deterioration or complete loss. 

About the Pacific Power Foundation:

The Pacific Power Foundation is part of the PacifiCorp Foundation, one of the largest utility-endowed foundations in the U.S. The foundation was created by PacifiCorp, an energy company that serves over 2 million customers across a diverse six-state region in the West as Rocky Mountain Power (Utah, Wyoming and Idaho) and Pacific Power (Oregon, Washington and California). The foundation’s mission, through charitable investments, is to support the growth and vitality of the communities served by Rocky Mountain Power and Pacific Power. Since it started in 1988, the PacifiCorp Foundation has awarded more than $60 million to nonprofit organizations. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net/foundation.

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*** UPDATE *** Armando was found safe by deputies.Deputies are currently searching a North Salem area for a missing elderly man (Photo)
Marion Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/12/24 12:56 PM
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Armando Arango-Guerrero , age 87 walked away from his home near Brown Rd NE around 11:40 a.m. this morning. Armando is 5’02” tall, average build. He is non-verbal, due to a medical issue. He was last seen wearing a red and black plaid shirt and black pants. 

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




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Marine Board Welcomes New Member Aboard (Photo)
Oregon State Marine Board - 03/12/24 12:48 PM
Steve Lambert out on the water with his K9 companion, Kona
Steve Lambert out on the water with his K9 companion, Kona
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The Marine Board recently filled a vacancy on its board with Steve Lambert, a Jackson County resident and Director of Jackson County Roads and Parks.

Steve has worked in public park management for three decades. He began his career in parks and recreation in eastern Washington while earning a degree in Natural Resource Management from Washington State University. After college, he spent a short amount of time working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the Snake River in Clarkston, Washington, where his duties included patrolling the river to ensure safe and responsible use. In 1999, he relocated to the Willamette Valley and managed recreation facilities on three reservoirs, including Clear Lake in the Willamette National Forest. In 2009, he and his family moved to the Rogue Valley, where he currently manages county park facilities on five reservoirs and the Rogue River. 

Steve is passionate about providing boating access for Oregonians in a close-to-home experience. No matter where he has worked, he has seen the joy boating brings to families, both by paddle, oar, and motor. Whether building boating facilities including boat ramps and marinas, or operating public rental businesses where those who may not own a boat can easily experience boating, he is devoted to meeting the recreational needs of his fellow Oregonians. In his spare time, you can find him paddling the waters with his wife and their two dogs.   

“Serving on the Marine Board, it’s my hope to help the agency plan for future challenges amidst environmental shifts,” said Lambert. “It’s important to ensure Oregonians always have safe, local access to the waters they cherish.” 

Learn more about the agency’s Marine Board Members and their invaluable service to recreational boaters in Oregon. 

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Attached Media Files: Steve Lambert out on the water with his K9 companion, Kona

SOLVE invites volunteers to register for their annual Earth Day celebration: The Oregon Spring Cleanup (Photo)
SOLVE - 03/12/24 10:31 AM
SOLVE Oregon Spring Cleanup at Cannon Beach 2023
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Portland, Ore., March 12, 2024 – From April 13 to April 22, families, community members, neighborhood associations, and environmental enthusiasts are invited to engage in a signature event in SOLVE's annual calendar: The Oregon Spring Cleanup, presented by Portland General Electric. Registration for this environmentally conscious event series is now open.

Participants are invited to join SOLVE, event leaders, and partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a collective celebration of Earth Day. The SOLVE calendar showcases a variety of events throughout Oregon and SW Washington between April 13 and April 22, with the majority of events culminating on April 20. Diverse initiatives address specific environmental needs with opportunities ranging from beach cleanups to neighborhood and city litter pickups. Further activities include restoring natural habitats through native tree and shrub plantings, weed pulls, and mulching projects. Each project contributes to the enhancement of our shared surroundings.

With a variety of projects already online, the Oregon Spring Cleanup invites enthusiastic volunteers to contribute to a cleaner, greener, and brighter planet. Interested individuals can browse the map of projects to find events near them, learn about each opportunity, and sign up for a meaningful contribution to the environment. Participating in the Oregon Spring Cleanup provides an excellent opportunity to bond with family members, coworkers, and neighbors, while collectively contributing to preserving some of Oregon's most stunning locations.

As SOLVE anticipates another successful event, valued partner Portland General Electric, shares their commitment to the cause: " PGE proudly supports SOLVE's efforts to make our communities cleaner and greener. In 2023, our employees and their families volunteered with SOLVE for more than 220 hours. We're excited to join community members again this Earth Day to help improve our beautiful state." said Kristen Sheeran, Senior Director of Policy Planning and Sustainability, Portland General Electric.

For those inspired to host an event, SOLVE is still accepting new volunteer-led projects. The sooner projects are submitted, the faster SOLVE can care for the rest. Event leaders receive full support, including free supplies, access to project funding, disposal assistance, and help with volunteer recruitment

For more information, please visit solveoregon.org/oregon-spring and be part of the collective effort to create a cleaner, greener planet.

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 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. 




Attached Media Files: Press Release SOLVE Oregon Spring Cleanup 2024 , SOLVE Oregon Spring Cleanup at Cannon Beach 2023 , SOLVE Oregon Spring Cleanup restoratoon event 2023 , SOLVE Oregon Spring Cleanup at Cannon Beach 2023 , SOLVE Oregon Spring Cleanup at Shemanski Park 2023

Snake River Correctional Institution reports in-custody death (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Corrections - 03/12/24 8:36 AM
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An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Dennis Gene Sarver, died March 12, 2024. Sarver was incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution (SRCI) in Ontario and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Sarver entered DOC custody on June 25, 2019, from Polk County with an earliest release date of October 7, 2026. Sarver was 66 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of approximately 12,000 individuals who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

SRCI is a multi-custody prison in Ontario that houses approximately 3,000 adults in custody. SRCI has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, intensive management, infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care, and an administrative segregation unit. SRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including a contact center, laundry, and sign shop. SRCI specializes in incentive housing, specialized housing, individuals with mental health/medical vulnerabilities, education and trades programs, cognitive and parenting programs, and institution work programs. SRCI opened in 1991 and is the largest correctional institution in the state.

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Environmental Stewardship on Display During Sustainability Coalition Fair & Town Hall (Photo)
Benton Co. Government - 03/12/24 8:35 AM
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Benton County had the opportunity to showcase the part it plays in the betterment of the region during a recent local gathering. The Oregon State Alumni Center was a busy place on March 7 as an estimated 1,000 persons attended the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition’s annual Fair and Town Hall. 

The impact of our day-to-day actions on the environment and how each of us can promote its sustainability was the focus of the event. Benton County along with the county’s Soil and Water District, and many others participated to highlight important sustainability efforts. 

“As a community and as a nation our choices are dramatically changing the climate and biodiversity, both of which threaten the ecosystem on which our lives depend,” said Sustainability Coalition Co-Founder Annette Mills. “We live at a critical moment. We are in the midst of a great transition and each of us has the power to influence this transition through the daily choices we make through our work together.”

The evening kicked off with the annual Sustainability Fair, featuring hands-on exhibits. Fair Coordinator Donna Tarasawa said she thought the event went very well with an amazing turnout from the community. Attendees visited 54 booths with exhibitors sharing their sustainability work for the better in the community. 

“Such a wonderful group of people! They provided interesting interactions at their booths to engage people and help them understand more about being sustainable and making a lighter footprint on the planet,” said Tarasawa. 

The County’s booth was a popular spot where some attendees inquired about the Benton County Sustainable Materials Management Plan that will guide waste prevention and recovery efforts for years. 

“We’re dreaming big and are looking at the overall impact that products have when manufactured, transported, used and eventually discarded,” said Bailey Payne, Benton County Solid Waste Program Coordinator. “We’re striving to think holistically about the lifecycle of things. It’s an exciting time to be in this position.”

Children in attendance were also treated to activities like the County’s Stormwater Coloring and Puzzle activity book. 

The Benton County Soil and Water District promoted sustainable land management practices, soil health, native plants, pollinators, and keeping water resources clean with a hands-on demonstration distinguishing between clay, sand, and rich, organic loam soil. 

Following the Fair, activities shifted to the Alumni’s Center’s ballroom for the Town Hall portion of the evening. Three keynote speakers addressed the theme: “The Arts: A Portal to Sustainability.” 

The Town Hall also included the annual Community Scrapbook, a slide presentation highlighting the sustainability achievements of local organizations and businesses during the past year – actions that are moving our community toward environmental quality, social equity, and economic vitality.

The Corvallis Sustainability Coalition is a network of more than 350 partner organizations and hundreds of individual volunteers. Partner organizations include businesses, non-profits, faith communities, educational institutions, and government entities. The mission of the group is to promote an ecologically, socially, and economically healthy city and county. The Coalition’s action teams work on projects in 12 topic areas: Community Inclusion, Economic Vitality, Education, Energy, Food, Health and Human Services, Housing, Land Use, Natural Areas, Transportation, Waste Prevention, and Water.

View downloadable photos

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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 call Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or email pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov




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Fatal Multi-Family Residential Structure Fire - 2316 W. Harvard - 3-12-24 (Photo)
Roseburg Fire Dept. - 03/12/24 8:27 AM
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At 7:46 p.m. on March 11, 2024, Roseburg Fire Department personnel responded to a residential structure fire with a possible rescue at 2316 W. Harvard Avenue. Firefighters arrived on scene to find heavy fire coming from the second and third floors of a large residential structure that included multiple apartments.  Upon arrival, residents informed fire crews there may be a thirteen-year-old resident still inside the structure. 

Multiple crews entered the multi-family residence and searched all floors for the missing person.  Crews were able to locate the young boy on the second floor and found him to be unconscious.  Crews quickly removed the victim through a second-floor window.  The patient was transported to a nearby hospital, where the victim was pronounced deceased.  Two other patients were transported to a nearby hospital for smoke inhalation.  Crews extinguished the fire and spent considerable time overhauling the structure. There were multiple dogs found deceased due to the fire.  The American Red Cross responded and was on scene assisting multiple displaced residents. 

The multi-family residence sustained structural, smoke, and water damage.  The fire investigation is ongoing and multiple agencies are involved in the efforts.  Thirty-one firefighters assisted with firefighting efforts. Other agencies assisting with the fire included Douglas County Fire District #2, Winston-Dillard Fire District, Umpqua Valley Ambulance, Pacific Power, Avista Utilities, Roseburg Police Department, American Red Cross, and Adapt.

For the latest information regarding the City of Roseburg Fire Department, please visit our website at www.cityofroseburg.org or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/roseburgfire.




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Reeling From a Second Year of Losses, Hospitals Stress Need for Policy Changes
Hospital Association of Oregon - 03/12/24 8:00 AM

Lake Oswego, Ore. – March 12, 2024 – A combination of factors including high inflation, workforce shortages and escalating expenses continue to squeeze the operating margins of Oregon hospitals, underscoring the urgency of implementing policy solutions to ensure they can continue to support their communities.

New data released this week by Apprise Health Insights shows the state's hospitals posted an –1.3% median operating margin in 2023, the second consecutive year that hospitals as a group lost money. Without federal CARES Act funds propping up hospitals in 2020 and 2021, last year would have marked the fourth straight year hospitals experienced significant financial losses.   

“Oregonians depend on their hospitals to be there when they need them most,” said Becky Hultberg, Hospital Association of Oregon president and CEO. “But year after year of tough financial conditions have made it increasingly difficult for hospitals to maintain all the services they provide to their communities.”

In 2023, 56% of Oregon’s hospitals reported they were unable to cover the cost of providing care with revenue from core patient activities. The state’s larger urban hospitals had a median operating margin of -0.3%, while rural hospitals fared worse with a median operating margin of -1.8%.

Along with rising salaries, benefits and the cost of supplies, hospitals’ cost of providing care has also increased as it has become more difficult to discharge patients to appropriate settings. The average hospital length of stay, while dropping from peak 2022 levels, has remained high at around five days.

“Our hospitals are not on a sustainable path,” Hultberg said. “We have systemic problems to address including how hospitals are paid for the care they provide, especially for the most vulnerable in our state. It’s one of the reasons we recently worked with the legislature to boost funding for hospitals that care for a higher proportion of Medicaid and uninsured Oregonians.”

The hospital association continues to work with Oregon policymakers and other groups to help build the health care workforce, explore ways to increase capacity outside of hospitals and stabilize the state’s health care system. 

“The economists who predicted that 2023 would be another difficult year for hospitals turned out to be correct,” Hultberg said. “We must continue to make progress on these complex policy issues in the 2025 legislative session.”  

 

About the Hospital Association of Oregon 

Founded in 1934, the Hospital Association of Oregon (HAO) is a mission-driven, nonprofit trade association representing Oregon’s 61 hospitals. Together, hospitals are the sixth largest private employer statewide, employing more than 70,000 employees. Committed to fostering a stronger, safer, more equitable Oregon where all people have access to the high-quality care they need, the hospital association supports Oregon’s hospitals so they can support their communities; educates government officials and the public on the state’s health landscape and works collaboratively with policymakers, community based organizations and the health care community to build consensus on and advance health care policy benefiting the state’s four million residents.

 

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