Currently, Marion County Deputies are on scene of a serious injury crash involving a passenger car and a motorcycle at the intersection of Quinaby Road NE and River Road N, near Keizer. The driver of the passenger car and motorcycle rider have been taken to the Salem Hospital. Very few details regarding this incident are currently available.

The Marion County Traffic Safety Team's CRASH unit is headed to the scene to assist in the investigation. Deputies expect the intersection will be closed for the next several hours and motorists should seek alternate routes. An additional release will follow as soon as more details are made available.

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers in Coos Bay are continuing the investigation into yesterday's fatal head-on crash on Highway 38 at Paradise Road, near Elkton.

Preliminary information from the scene indicates that at approximately 3:45 p.m., a black, 2012 Honda CR-V, operated by HEATHER R. FRIEDRICH, age 44, of North Bend, was eastbound when it crossed the centerline into the westbound lanes and hit a tan, 2004 Toyota Camry, driven by KATHLEEN D. HANDCOCK, 57 of Coos Bay, which was westbound. The front passenger in the Camry, VIRGINIA L. WHALEN-JENNINGS, 59, of Coquille, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

FRIEDRICH was transported to Lower Umpqua Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. HANDCOCK and her rear passenger were transported to Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend with non-life threatening injuries.

The highway was blocked for several hours as troopers investigated and reconstructed the crash. The Oregon Department of Transportation responded to assist and a traffic detour was established.

OSP was assisted at the scene by the Oregon Department of Transportation, Douglas County Sheriff's Office, and Elkton Rural Fire Protection District. No citations have been issued at this time however, investigative findings will be forwarded to the Douglas County District Attorney for review.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1002/81514/DSCN5782.JPG , 2015-01/1002/81514/DSCN5802.JPG

OSP Traffic Stop Turns Into Pursuit - Shots Fired - Marion County

On Saturday, January 31, 2015, at approximately 12:23 a.m., an Oregon State Police (OSP) trooper on Interstate 5 stopped a white, 2006 Honda Civic, for a speeding violation. The driver, identified as 21 year-old TRACY A. BETANCOURT-GARCIA, of Gresham, pulled over near milepost 242, at the Linn/Marion County line. As the trooper was in the process of writing Bentancourt-Garcia a citation, she and the male passenger switched places and the Honda left the scene and a pursuit ensued.

So far the investigation has shown that, the pursuit moved off the freeway and then back on again in the south Marion County area. At some point the new driver, identified as GUSTAVO FLORES-VEGA, 22, of Boring, left the freeway once more and went through Turner and out Mill Creek Road toward Aumsville before the vehicle turned onto 75th Place.

Troopers utilized a Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) or similar technique to stop the car. After the vehicle was disabled Flores-Vega ran on foot and Troopers gave chase. After a short foot chase Flores-Vega was taken into custody by Troopers without further incident or injury.
The Sheriff's Office can confirm that during the pursuit of Flores-Vega shots were fired by Troopers. Detective Sergeant Craig Cunningham stated, "This is an active investigation, and it will take time to put all of the pieces together."

No one was injured during this incident and the Marion County Sheriff's Office is assisting OSP by leading the investigation. Flores-Vega is currently at the Salem Hospital, under guard, where he is being treated for an illness not related to last night's incident. Mr. Flores-Vega's is under arrest for attempting to elude the police and once he has been cleared by the hospital he will be taken to the Marion County Jail. Once the investigation is completed it will be submitted to the District Attorney's Office for review and to determine what, if any, charges will be filed.

According to Oregon State Police spokesperson Lt. Josh Brooks, both Troopers involved in last night's pursuit have been placed on paid administrative leave. Lt. Brooks stated, "This is standard procedure in these types of use of force cases." The Troopers names are not being released at this time.

Investigators are looking for motorists who may have witnessed the incident. If you were in the area last night and saw the pursuit of Mr. Flores-Vega please call our tip line at 503-540-8079.

Oregon State Police (OSP) has requested the Marion County Sheriff's Office lead the investigation into an OSP officer involved shooting that occurred near Aumsville just off Mill Creek Road. No one was injured as a pursuit, which started on I-5 near the Linn/Marion County line, ended after shots were fired. Additional details will be released when they become available but the suspect in this incident has been arrested and no risk to the public is present.

Any further releases will be coordinated with the Marion County Sheriff's Office and the Marion County District Attorney.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

On December 19, 2014, at approximately 7:11 pm, Troopers from the Klamath Falls Patrol office attempted to stop an orange Ford Expedition for a traffic violation on Highway 66 in Klamath. The driver who was later identified as Christopher Sellars, age 32, of Klamath Falls, attempted to elude troopers while traveling westbound on Highway 66 towards Ashland.

During the pursuit a large gas can was lit on fire and thrown towards an OSP patrol vehicle. Sellars continued to elude troopers for approximately 39 miles before the vehicle came to a stop and two of the three occupants fled on foot, near milepost 18, on Highway 66. The right rear passenger, Levi Cortez, age 25, did not flee and was taken into custody. The following day, the right front passenger, William Anthony Noble, age 25, was taken into custody near where the vehicle came to a stop.

On January 30, 2015, a Southern Oregon University professor and students on a field trip found a deceased male approximately 1 mile south of Highway 66, in a forested area. A Jackson County Deputy Medical Examiner and an OSP detective responded to the scene and identified the deceased male as Christopher Sellars. The cause of death is pending the results of an autopsy from the State Medical Examiners office.

Phone Conference Meeting
AGENDA
Date: February 6, 2015
Time: 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Call-In: 1-877-273-4202; Room Number: 4978330



1. Roll Call

2. Public Comment

3. Draft Meeting Minutes for Approval
January 14, 2015

4. GHAP Grant Award for Approval--Heather Pate and Casey Baumann
Bethlehem Inn-Housing the Homeless, 3705 N. Highway 97
Bend, OR

5. 2015 LIHTC NOFA Update- Julie Cody

6. Legislative Update

7. Report of the Director

8. Report of the Chair



**Note schedule change:
July meeting has been moved from July 11th, 2015 to July 17th, 2015 to align with the NOFA timeline for Council consideration of award recommendations.


Next meeting:
March 6, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. in OHCS, Conference Room 124a/b (725 Summer Street NE, Salem, OR 97301). Call-In: 1-877-273-4202; Room Number: 4978330

Regular meeting of the Board of Directors February 9, 2015.

North Bend School District Public Meetings scheduled for the month of February:

February 2, 2015
Special School Board Meeting at 5:30 p.m.
North Bend School District Office
1913 Meade St., North Bend, OR

February 9, 2015
Regular School Board Meeting at 7:00 p.m.
North Bend City Council Chamber
835 California St., North Bend, OR

This schedule is subject to change.
Visit www.nbend.k12.or.us for agenda information

Drake Alan Douglas Carson, 17, was arraigned today on the charges of Manslaughter in the First Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, and Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Police Officer stemming from an incident on Monday January 26th, 2015 on Howell Prairie Road in Mount Angel. The Honorable Heidi O. Strauch set bail at $110,000. Mr. Thomas O'Neil has been appointed to represent Mr. Carson.

Mr. Carson is charged with crimes under Ballot Measure 11, therefore, he will be prosecuted as an adult in criminal court. He will remain in the juvenile department detention facility for the pendency of the case, which is standard procedure. Mr. Carson's next appearance will be February 12, 2015 at 8:30 am.

No other information is available for release at this time.

Questions about this press release may be directed to Deputy District Attorney Kurt Miller at 503-588-5222.

The Oregon State Library Board of Trustees will meet at the State Library, 250 Winter St. NE, Salem, OR from 9:00 a.m. to noon on February 13, 2015. Aletha Bonebrake of Baker City will chair the meeting.

At the meeting on February 13th, the Board will discuss the agency strategic plan and the upcoming legislative session.

Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested prior to 48 hours before the meeting; notice prior to 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in alternate formats prior to 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to Jessica Rondema at 503-378-2464.

-30-


OREGON STATE LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
February 13, 2015
Room 103, State Library Building, Salem
Aletha Bonebrake, Chair

Agenda


9:00 a.m. Approval of the Minutes of the December 5, 2014 Meeting Bonebrake

9:05 Introductions Dahlgreen

9:15 Strategic Plan and Operational Plan Highlights Dahlgreen/Coraggio Group

9:45 Board Role & the Strategic Plan Coraggio Group

10:45 Break

11:00 "Role of the State Library" Project - charter Dahlgreen

11:15 2015 Legislative Session Overview Dahlgreen

11:45 Close session Bonebrake


NOTE: The times of all agenda items are approximate and subject to change.

(Hillsboro, Oregon)--In an effort to continue providing excellent customer service to the people of Washington County, on January 20, 2015, the Hillsboro APD Office (133 SE Second) has relocated their staff to 5240 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 200, Hillsboro 97124. The main telephone number: 971-673-5100. The main fax number: 503-693-6815.

This office serves both seniors and younger people with disabilities. The office also houses Adult Foster Home licensors, Adult Protective Services, and Transition/Diversion staff, who provide services to all of Washington County.

We are making every effort to make this a seamless transition, and believe this will be a more accessible location for service delivery. This new location will also offer customers better access to public transportation options, and more accessible parking.

Benefits will NOT be affected by this move. We are deeply committed to the clients we serve in Washington County and are asking them to note these changes and call their DHS worker if they have any questions.

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports that on January 28, 2015, his deputies made an arrest in a Domestic Abuse case involving Walter Warren John Ruck, 33 years old of Lebanon.

At 3:10 pm our office received a call from Mario Gonzales, owner and CEO of Americare Health products in Las Vegas, reporting a female being beaten and screaming for her life in the 31000 block of Eastway Street in Lebanon. Mr. Gonzales was making a follow-up call to the female at this address. Mr. Gonzales said he could hear a woman screaming for her life and yelling "please don't kill me." He added that it sounded like the female was being physically beaten while yelling "Please stop."

Mr. Gonzales Googled the local police department related to her address. He called the Lebanon Police Department and was transferred to the Linn County Sheriff's Office because the location was outside their city limits.

When deputies arrived on scene a female was heard calling for help, while a male voice could be heard saying "quiet."

Deputies made entry into the residence and saw Ruck, holding the female from behind. When Ruck saw the deputy, he let go of the female, who was crying and gasping for air, she immediately ran past the deputy out of the house.

During the course of the investigation, deputies learned she had been held down, physically assaulted and had her head and face smothered with blankets and pillows.

Deputies learned at one point during the struggle, the female said Ruck obtained a rifle and positioned the barrel near his face and shoved the stock of the gun into her chest telling her to pull the trigger. The victim stated she was in total fear of her life and was convinced Ruck wanted to kill himself or kill her and then himself.

The female had been carrying her cellphone in her back pocket. She stated she never dialed the phone for help and had no idea who had called the police. Deputies credited Mr. Gonzales for intervening and possibly saving the woman's life.

Mr. Ruck was transported and lodged at the Linn County Jail for charges of Assault IV, Menacing and Strangulation.

Correction to previous release, Ruck was arrested not Gonzales.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/2993/81467/ruck.jpg

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into this afternoons fatal traffic crash on I-5 near milepost 110 in Douglas County - near Roseburg.

Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 4:45 P.M, a black Ford Focus operated by JONATHAN W. GRAHAM, 58, of Myrtle Creek, was northbound on I-5 near milepost 110. The Focus drifted into a the traffic barrier and crashed sustaining heavy front and side damage.

GRAHAM was transported to Mercy Medical Center and later to River Bend Hospital in Springfield where he died from his injuries.

The freeway remained open during the investigation.

OSP was assisted at the scene by the Oregon Department of Transportation, Myrtle Creek Police Department and the Myrtle Creek Fire Department. Photographs will be added when they become available.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1002/81468/MP_110_Fatal_1.JPG , 2015-01/1002/81468/MP_110_Fatal_3.JPG

The Salem Police Department has posted a new Public Service Announcement Video on its Youtube channel.

The video, one version in English and one in Spanish, is entitled "A Simple Equation" and addresses pedestrian/driver safety. The Salem Police Department Youtube channel can be accessed at https://www.youtube.com/user/SalemPDTV and contains several public safety videos as well as other materials about the Salem Police Department and our department members.

Please bookmark this address and visit our Youtube channel often, as new material is posted regularly.

"Fans don't let fans drive drunk" is the theme for Super Bowl Sunday. The Marion County Sheriff's Office Traffic Safety Team will be adding extra DUII patrols to the playbook for game day on Sunday. The sheriff's office received a grant provided by the Oregon Department of Transportation through the Oregon State Sheriff's Association to increase DUII enforcement on Super Bowl Sunday.

The Super Bowl is one of the largest sporting events in America where friends and family gather to cheer for their team. With fans planning gatherings, the Marion County Sheriff's Office, Oregon Department of Transportation and the Oregon State Sheriff's Association would like to take this opportunity to remind fans to designate a driver and remember, fans don't let fans drive drunk.

Don't become a Super Bowl tragedy by drinking and driving. Designate a driver or have a plan before the game starts, on how you will get home safely. If you are hosting a party or attending one, the game winning play will be designating a driver.

Here are a few tips and suggestions:

*Designate a sober driver or plan another way to safely get home prior to kick off.

*If you don't have a designated driver, ask a sober friend, call a family member, call a cab or stay the night.

*Never let friends or family drive if they have had too much to drink.

*Wearing your seatbelt can be the best defensive play against drunk drivers.

The sheriff's office would like to thank everyone for celebrating responsibly!


Attached Media Files: DUII into Building

The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries will meet at 1 p.m. February 13 via conference call. Agenda items will include grant reports, current projects and upcoming plans. The commission will invite public comments. For a meeting agenda and access information visit the historic cemeteries page of www.oregonheritage.org.

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

###

Football fans around Oregon are gearing up for this weekend's Super Bowl match-up on Sunday Feb.1, as our neighbors to the north contend for top honors in the big event.

According to NHTSA, impaired drivers contribute to Super Bowl Sunday becoming one of the most dangerous days on the road. Nationwide, approximately 48 percent of traffic fatalities on Super Bowl Sunday involve a driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 percent or higher. OSP, local sheriffs and police departments will be on the lookout for impaired drivers and encourage everyone to place the designation of a sober driver at the top of their Super Bowl game plan.

Before choosing to drink, choose a sober designated driver. If you're attending a Super Bowl party or watching the game at a sports bar or restaurant:

* Designate your sober driver before the party begins.
* Avoid drinking too much alcohol too fast. Pace yourself. Eat plenty of food, take breaks, and alternate with non-alcoholic drinks.
* Make sure your ride is sober before letting him/her drive you.
* If you don't have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home; call a cab, friend, or family member to come and get you; or if possible stay where you are for the night and don't drive until you are sober.
* Use your community's sober ride program.
* Never let a friend drive drunk. Arrange a safe way for them to get home.
* Always buckle up. It's still your best defense against other drunk drivers.

If you're hosting a Super Bowl party:

* Make sure all of your guests designate their sober drivers in advance, or help arrange ride-sharing with sober drivers.
* Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
* If you plan to stay sober, offer to drive guests home.
* Encourage guests to pace themselves.
* Host your party like they do at the stadium. Stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter of the game. The fourth quarter is perfect for serving coffee and dessert.
* Keep the phone numbers of local cab companies on hand and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving drunk.
* Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you served ends up in a drunk-driving crash.

Support zero tolerance for impaired driving by reporting impaired drivers to 9-1-1 or OSP at 1-800-24DRUNK (1-800-243-7865).

OSP and ODOT understand that not everyone will be in front of a TV watching the game, so those traveling are urged to "Know Before You Go", monitoring media reports for weather forecasts and keeping up-to-date on road conditions at www.TripCheck.com.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Lebanon Police Department

*IDENTITY THEFT ALERT*

Nature of Crime or Event: Mail theft / Identity Theft / Vehicle prowl
Date / Time Occurred: January 23rd, 2015
Occurred Location: Lebanon and Albany areas

Arrested: Sarah Ann Louise Baker DOB 08/14/1984

On January 23rd, 2015, Officers responded to the area of the 100 block of W Cedar Street in Lebanon for a report that a female was inside of the caller's vehicle. Officers located Sarah Ann Louise Baker in the area. Baker had mail from multiple different addresses from that area in her possession. Those pieces of mail were returned to the recipients. Baker was charged with Theft III, Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle, and 9 counts of Mail Theft at that time. Baker was lodged in the Linn County Jail on unrelated warrants.

Since that time, Officers and Detectives have learned that Baker and others working with Baker have stolen a large amount of mail from the Lebanon and Albany areas. The Lebanon Police Department recovered a small amount of that mail which will be returned to the recipients. The rest of the mail has not yet been recovered and the investigation is continuing.

It appears that Baker and her accomplices have been targeting mail for identities including information such as Names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, tax information, and credit card information.

The Lebanon Police Department knows that having your identity stolen can be devastating to its victims. We want to provide citizens with as much information to protect you against identity thieves. Below is a list of websites which can help you before, or after, your identity is stolen. The Federal Trade Commission is the primary agency for Identity theft. The first link below is the link to their Identity Theft website.

http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0014-identity-theft

http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Identity-Protection

http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/EN-05-10064.pdf



If you have information on this case, you are asked to contact Detective McCubbins at 541-451-1751 ext 4346.

January 29, 2015 - Salem, Ore. - A walk around the corner to get a bite to eat, turned into owning a pub outright for Leslie Coleman and Cassandra Johnston when they won the $116,984 Keno 8-Spot rolling jackpot.

The duo had just purchased a pub in Forest Grove called the King's Head English Pub and also plan to use their winnings to make more improvements.

"We recently purchased a pub and we plan to invest this money into it," Coleman said.

Johnston said the two were at the Little Monkey Deli, which is located around the corner from their pub, to get something to eat, when they decided to play Keno.

"We bought $5 in Keno and on the first game we hit the 8-spot," Johnston said.

Keno games are available every 4 minutes and players can decide how many numbers they are going to play. As an added bonus, when players play the 8-Spot, if no one matches all eight numbers, the prize amount rolls and is added into the next game. In the case of Coleman and Johnston, the prize had rolled to 17th largest Keno 8-spot prize since the game was introduced in 1991.

Coleman and Johnston join Donna Jensen-Mullins from Warrenton who won $200,000 playing Keno 10-spot last week. In the past week, Keno players have won more than $438,000 statewide.

Since 1985 the Oregon Lottery has transferred more than $9 billion to help fund public education, economic development, watersheds and state parks. Since the Oregon Lottery was created, players have won more than $26 billion in prizes.

Lottery officials recommend that you always sign the back of your tickets with each Oregon Lottery game you play, to ensure you can claim any prize you may win.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned over $9 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org

*** Correction *** Change to name of Log Truck Driver

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into this morning's three-vehicle, double fatality crash on HWY 99W near Milliron (pronounced Mill Iron) road near Junction City in Lane County.

Preliminary investigation indicates that shortly before 7:00 A.M., on January 29, a red, 1991 Ford Explorer, driven by JACOB W. HARPER LEONARD, age 29, of Junction City, was northbound on HWY 99W near Milliron Road in Lane County, when for unknown reasons he crossed over the center median and into the southbound lanes of travel. The Explorer collided head-on with a southbound maroon Honda CR-V, operated by DANIELLE M. ROBERTS, 25, of Springfield. The CR-V was then struck by a loaded 2010 Kenworth log truck driven by SCOTT L. WOOD, age 55, of Veneta.

The driver of the Explorer, HARPER LEONARD, was critically injured during the crash and transported via ambulance to River Bend Hospital in Springfield. His passenger, identified as BRANDON J. FOSTER, 25, of Junction City, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of the CR-V, ROBERTS, was pronounced deceased at the scene also. The driver of the log-truck, WOOD, was not injured during the crash and is cooperating with investigators.

Rodney Koffler, mentioned in a previous release was identified as the driver of the log truck - he was not the driver - WOOD was the driver. OSP regrets the error.

OSP was assisted at the scene by the Oregon Department of Transportation, Lane Rural Fire District, Lane Fire Authority and Junction City Fire Department.

Original Release
Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are on-scene of a three vehicle crash on HWY 99W near Milliron Road - in Lane County near Junction City.

Preliminary information indicates as many as three vehicles were involved in a crash and two people have died. The Oregon Department of Transportation and the Fire Department have coordinated a detour around the closure.

Avoid the area if possible by using an alternate route and watch for emergency crews arriving on scene.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1002/81436/HWY_99W_Milliron_2.jpg , 2015-01/1002/81436/99W_Milliron_Fatal_1.jpg

INCREASED INTERAGENCY TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT EFFORT IN OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS VICINITY

Oregon State Police, working in partnership with OSU Department of Public Safety and Corvallis Police Department, will focus enforcement efforts toward traffic-related violations in the campus vicinity on January 29th and 30th.

Following complaints and past problems related to bicycle and vehicle operation endangering pedestrians, the enforcement effort will focus both dates on roadways and intersections in the vicinity of Memorial Union, Valley Library and Kerr Administration from 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians are urged to remember their duty to exercise due care and obey traffic control devices (i.e., stop signs, traffic signals, pedestrian crossing signals) at all times. Drive safely to save lives.

The Committee for Family Forestlands is meeting from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Friday, February 6 in the Tillamook Room at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters located at 2600 State Street in Salem.

The Committee provides information and counsel to the Oregon Board of Forestry and State Forester in matters relating to family forestlands, including maintenance of a viable family forestland base, protection of resources and positive contributions to Oregon's vitality.

On the agenda
Environmental Policy Consultant Mary Scurlock, Scurlock & Associates, will lead a discussion about riparian (streamside) Forest Practices Act rulemaking and conservation strategies.

The committee will also hear an update about the Eastside Private Forest Collaborative - a project that helps forest landowners in the John Day / Ritter Valley area collaborate to protect landscapes and ecosystems on privately owned lands.

Committee members will also hear from Tammy Cushing, Oregon State University (OSU), about a special event held recently: a tax symposium for owners of small forested properties held at Oregon State University. In addition, Private Forests Division Chief Peter Daugherty will update committee members on legislative topics that pertain to the Department.

"The Committee for Family Forestlands performs valuable work for the state, consistently looking ahead to identify ways to protect resources and maintain a viable family forestland base," said Lena Tucker, Deputy Chief, Private Forests Division. Meetings are open to the public.

Committee composition
Thirteen positions - seven voting members and six seats in non-voting roles - form the committee. Voting members include family forest owners, an environmental community representative, a representative of Oregon's forest products industry, and a citizen-at-large representing the public.

Non-voting ex-officio members may include representatives of the Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon State University, Oregon small forestland groups, forestry-related industry associations, and the Oregon Forest Resources Institute.

Public invited
Members of the public are invited to attend and participate in the meeting. The meeting takes place in Tillamook Room at ODF headquarters in Salem. ODF headquarters are located at 2600 State Street, Salem. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities.

Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. Questions about accessibility or special accommodations for the meeting can be directed to the Oregon Department of Forestry at 503-945-7502.

Additional information about the Committee for Family Forestlands is available on ODF's web site at: www.oregon.gov/ODF/pages/board/cff/cff.aspx.


# # #

Portland, Ore. - The Bonneville Power Administration's Energy Smart Industrial program is helping companies better manage their energy use and reduce costs. Since 2009, BPA and Northwest publicly owned electric utilities have partnered with 473 industrial companies on projects that have collectively saved more than 647 million kilowatt-hours of electricity -- enough energy to power nearly 60,000 homes for a year.

"Energy Smart Industrial is making Northwest industrial companies more efficient and competitive," says Richard Genece, vice president of Energy Efficiency at BPA. "The success of ESI is a credit to the work of our utility customers and ESI staff, as well as to industrial companies embracing energy efficiency across the region."

In the first five years of the program, 111 publicly owned electric utilities in Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington and Wyoming have helped industrial end-users complete over 735 capital projects in a variety of market segments, including food processing, pulp and paper, wood products, advanced technology, water/wastewater and mining. A recent examination revealed that the annual energy savings from completed capital projects increased by 300 percent on average.

ESI provides a suite of energy management options that BPA's utility customers can offer to the industrial companies they serve. In order to meet the broad range of needs, technologies and facility sizes, the program features five components, many of which don't require a large, up-front investment: Energy Project Manager co-funding; Track and Tune Projects; High Performance Energy Management cohorts; Refrigerator Operator Coaching; and Small Industrial High Performance Energy Management. Since every facility is unique, the BPA program provides an engineer as a technical resource and point of contact for the customer and utility to ensure each project is defined, developed and managed successfully.

"With BPA providing incentives and technical expertise, we're helping our industrial customers, big and small, achieve significant energy savings," says Larry Blaufus, industrial accounts manager with Clark Public Utilities in Vancouver, Wash.

In 2010, Clark enrolled a non-woven fabrics plant in Washougal, Wash. Through energy efficiency measures and upgrades to chillers, air compressors and lighting, Fitesa Washougal Inc. cut its energy use by about 19 percent, or 2.5 million kWh a year.

JD Hisey, the plant's continuous improvement manager, says Energy Smart Industrial did more than just cut Fitesa's energy costs. "The new equipment reduced our maintenance, repair and downtime costs," Hisey says.

For energy-efficiency help at its plywood plant in Elgin, Ore., Boise Cascade, the second-largest softwood plywood manufacturer in North America, turned to Oregon Trail Electric Consumers Cooperative, a BPA customer utility in Baker City. After ESI-upgrades to its air-compressor system, Boise Cascade is saving about $24,000 a year in its energy bills.

"With better modulation, drying and pressure control, we're so much more efficient," says Scott Noble, manufacturing management associate for Boise Cascade. "And we've seen significant savings as a result."

The BPA program is now focusing on smaller industries in rural areas and water treatment and wastewater facilities. Also, since lighting upgrades have accounted for nearly 25 percent of the program's historical savings, ESI will continue to explore new lighting technologies and controls. And soon, BPA plans to develop a "Superior Energy Performance" pilot for industrial facilities.


Attached Media Files: BPA and Northwest publicly owned electric utilities have helped 473 industrial companies save enough energy to power nearly 60,000 homes for a year. , Energy Smart Industrial provides a suite of energy-saving options that BPA's utility customers can offer to industrial companies they serve.

Portland, Oregon - Leaders from Cover Oregon and the Oregon Insurance Division will speak and answer questions Thursday about the February 15 deadline for getting private health insurance. Find out what Oregonians need to do to make sure they are covered in 2015 and what help is available to them. The news conference will also include an update on the number of Oregonians who have enrolled.

Who: Cover Oregon Executive Director Aaron Patnode and Oregon Insurance Commissioner Laura Cali

When: Thursday, January 29 at 1:30 p.m.

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

Dial-in Instructions: To participate remotely register online at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3595193380257568001. You must log on using this link if you want to ask questions and you are listening remotely

The Oregon Travel Information Council is pleased to announce that Nancy DeSouza has accepted the position as Executive Director of Oregon Travel Experience (OTE). DeSouza is a native Oregonian with more than 24 years experience in Oregon state government executive and management service.

"OTE is a semi-independent agency with an important and growing mandate to serve Oregon and its travelers, and Nancy brings the perfect combination of skill, wisdom and experience to guide the agency and assist the Council in the years ahead," said Council Chair Gwenn Baldwin. "From her executive management experience in other semi-independent state agencies, to her marketing and communication expertise, and her excellent reputation in state government as a collaborative partner, we couldn't have asked for a stronger, more well-suited executive."

DeSouza came to OTE from her role as Executive Director of the Oregon Board of Optometry. Her contributions to the State of Oregon are extensive--she also served as Executive Director of the Oregon Board of Parole and Post-Prison Supervision, Public Affairs/Government Relations Manager for the Oregon Department of Corrections, Marketing/Communications Manager for Inside Oregon Enterprises/Inmate Work Programs, and Communication Manager for the Oregon Department of Consumer & Business Services.

"I am honored to work with the Oregon Travel Information Council members and the staff of Oregon Travel Experience," said DeSouza. "As a native Oregonian in love with our state, I look forward to continuing the agency's work to ensure that motorists have convenient and safe rest areas, clear directions to local services, and information guiding visitors to points of Oregon interest, history and culture."

Oregon Travel Experience (OTE) is a semi-independent state agency located in Salem, Oregon with a focus on transportation information. The agency and its governing Oregon Travel Information Council's mission is to ensure a safe and convenient motoring experience. OTE oversees highway safety rest area management, helps motorists find essential services through blue highway logo signs, and connects the first-time Oregon visitor to tourism partners through its travel information centers. OTE also administers two of the state's official heritage programs: historical markers and heritage trees. Visit us on the web at www.ortravelexperience.com.


Attached Media Files: Nancy DeSouza

Oregon State Police (OSP) criminal detectives are continuing the investigation into a fatal vehicle versus pedestrian incident in Josephine County.

According to OSP Lieutenant Darin Lux, OSP troopers responded to 1503 Three Pines Rd, in Grants Pass (Hugo) in Josephine County to investigate a report of a woman who had been run over by a vehicle on private property.

Upon arrival, troopers discovered the woman, identified as CHERYLE A. ANDERSON, 52, of Grants Pass, deceased as a result of her injuries. The driver of the truck, identified as RICHARD R. ROHAN, 71, of Grants Pass is reportedly cooperating with investigators. Preliminary information from investigators indicates ROHAN backed over ANDERSON. Troopers believe alcohol may be a factor in the incident.

All further updates will be coordinated with the Josephine County District Attorney's Office.

*** END UPDATE ***

Previous Release:
Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into a fatal vehicle versus pedestrian crash in rural Josephine County.

At approximately 8:20 P.M., troopers responded to a report of a woman in the Grants Pass area who was run over by a vehicle on private property. The investigation is ongoing and limited details are available at this time. Additional information will be provided when it becomes available.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Initial Release:
The Oregon State Police and Marion County Sheriff's Department are investigating the death of a woman this afternoon after the vehicle she was riding in crashed following a police pursuit.

While the incident is currently under investigation, preliminary information indicates that at approximately 6:06 P.M., a Mt. Angel Police Officer attempted to stop a tan, 2001 Chevrolet S-10 pickup, at S. Main and May Streets in Mt. Angel. The driver, identified as 17 year-old DRAKE D. CARSON, of Salem, failed to yield and a pursuit ensued. The vehicle fled onto Howell Prairie Road and crashed about 1 mile north of Saratoga Drive. Two passengers were in the vehicle. The front passenger, a juvenile male, was transported to a Salem area Hospital for treatment with serious injuries. The rear seat passenger, identified as RHIANNON L. STEELE, age 35, of Keizer, was pronounced deceased at the scene. CARSON fled the scene immediately following the crash.

Any further releases will be coordinated through the Marion County District Attorney's Office. OSP was assisted at the scene by the Marion County Sheriff's Department, Woodburn Police Department, Keizer Police Department, Silverton Police Department, and Mt. Angel Police Department as well as the Marion County District Attorney's Office and Marion County Public Works.

Update:
The driver in yesterday's fatal crash, DRAKE D. CARSON, has been located and is in custody. OSP appreciates the assistance locating him.
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1002/81376/Howell_Prairie_RD.jpg

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are asking for the publics help locating the driver of a semi-truck they believe may have been rear ended on I-5 shortly before 1:00 A.M., near milepost 253.

Preliminary information indicates that a silver Lexus passenger car was traveling southbound on I-5 near milepost 253 which was an active construction zone during this time. The driver of the Lexus, identified as VICENTE PLASCENCIA, age 40, of Salem, died at the scene.

Troopers believe the Lexus may have rear-ended a semi-truck which may not have known it was struck and not stopped. They are asking anyone with information on this incident or who may have seen the crash to contact the lead investigator, Trooper Eli Breen, at the Northern Command Center at 503-375-3555.

No photographs are available for release at this time. OSP was assisted by the Salem Police Department, Keizer Police Department and Salem Fire Department.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Oregon State Fire Marshal Jim Walker is encouraging Oregonians to submit nominations for the state's 2015 Golden and Silver Sparky awards.

The Golden Sparky recognizes a fire service member for outstanding achievement in fire prevention or public fire safety education. The Silver Sparky is the civilian version, awarded to an individual, non-profit organization, or company for outstanding achievement in fire prevention or public fire safety education.

"There are many Oregonians over the past year who have made contributions in fire prevention and fire prevention education, and I encourage everyone to let us know about it," says Oregon State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. "You don't have to be a member of the fire service to nominate someone. Nominations may be submitted by any member of the public as well."

Nominators just need to fill out the OSFM single-page nomination form and submit written examples of the nominee's achievements with the form.

The nomination deadline is February 15, 2015. Forms are available on the state fire marshal website.

For assistance or more information, contact Sally Cravinho at 503-934-8205 or sally.cravinho@state.or.us.


Attached Media Files: The Office of State Fire Marshal Silver Sparky award , The Oregon State Fire Marshal Golden Sparky award

Correction - Previous releases mixed the Ford and Mazda order. The corrected version listed below is correct.

Oregon State Police troopers are continuing the investigation into yesterday's fatal traffic crash on highway 99E at milepost 21 in Linn County.

Preliminary information indicates that shortly after 6:00 P.M., a Silver Pontiac Grand Am, was driving northbound in the southbound lane on highway 99E near milepost 21 when it collided head-on with a black, Ford Edge, which was southbound. A black Mazda MZ3, traveling southbound behind the Ford collided with the Pontiac in a second impact after the head-on with the Mazda.

The driver of the Pontiac, identified as NANCY L. CAVALO, age 66, of Halsey, was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis by ground ambulance where she was pronounced deceased. The driver of the the Ford, identified as RICHARD J. OLSON, age 55, from Junction City, was seriously injured and transported to Albany Hospital then transferred to Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis. The driver of the Mazda declined medical aid however, a pregnant female passenger the Mazda was transported to River Bend Hospital in Springfield where she was treated and released last night. A total of three people were transported for treatment of various injuries.

The investigation is ongoing and the reason why the Pontiac was not in its lane is undetermined. Troopers believe limited visibility due to darkness and foggy conditions may have played a factor in this crash.

OSP was assisted at the scene by Linn County Sheriff's Department, Albany Police Department, Albany Fire Department, Halsey Fire Department and the Oregon Department of Transportation. Traffic was impacted in the area for approximately 6 hours while emergency crews investigated then removed the wreck.

OSP wants to remind all drivers to operate their vehicles with an abundance of caution during weather events which reduce visibility. Decreasing speed and limiting distractions during night hours or foggy times is the best policy when traveling during these times.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Twitter: @ORStatePolice


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1002/81372/99_MP_21_Fatal_1.jpg , 2015-01/1002/81372/99_MP_21_Fatal_2.jpg

Correcting OHPB meeting page links.

January 28, 2015

Contact: Stephanie Jarem, 971-273-6844 (meeting information or accommodations)

Oregon Health Policy Board to meet February 3 in Portland

The Oregon Health Policy Board will hold its monthly meeting February 3 in Portland. The meeting will be held at the OHSU Center for Health and Healing. The board will receive a report from the newly appointed Director of the Health Authority, Lynne Saxton, as well as a legislative update. The board will review the summary and next steps from the January planning session and there will be a presentation on the 2014 Mid-Year Health System Transformation Report. Public testimony will be heard during the meeting, beginning at 11:15 a.m.

When: Tuesday, February 3, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Where: OHSU Center for Health & Healing, 3033 SW Bond Ave., third floor, Room 4. The meeting will also be available via live Web stream. A link to the live stream and a recording of the meeting will be posted on the board's meeting page at www.oregon.gov/oha/OHPB/Pages/2015-OHPB-Meetings.aspx

Agenda:

- Director's report;

- Legislative update;

- Review of OHPB January planning session summary and next steps;

- 2014 mid-year Health System Transformation report;

- Public testimony.

For more information on the meeting, visit the board's meeting page at www.oregon.gov/oha/OHPB/Pages/2015-OHPB-Meetings.aspx.

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

# # #

The City of Albany has agreed to fund $2.9 million for technical training equipment at Linn-Benton Community College (LBCC) to answer local business needs for skilled labor.
Jim Merryman, Chief Operating Officer and President of Oregon Freeze Dry, led a coalition of Albany-area businesses and industries in asking for money that the City had set aside for economic development projects. The funds will be used to purchase equipment, which will allow for the creation and enhancement of one-year certificates and 2-year degree programs at LBCC in non-destructive testing, titanium welding, machine tooling and mechatronics.
Merryman and other business leaders told the City Council that they are currently unable to fill many high-paying local jobs because workers don't have the skills to do them.
"This partnership addresses the specific needs of Albany businesses, diversifies and strengthens Albany's economy and will allow local businesses to fill more than 1,000 positions over the next five years," Merryman said.
Greg Hamann, president of LBCC, agreed. "What an amazing moment - business, education and the City have come together in a truly shared effort to shape Albany's economic future for the better," Hamann said. "Over the next couple of years, we will, together, turn these shared investments into the jobs on which that better future will be built."
This unique, community-wide partnership supplements workforce development work that is concurrently underway through the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce and local businesses. Complementary training efforts are also underway at South Albany High School.
"The challenge of a skilled workforce isn't just an Albany problem; it's an Oregon and nationwide problem," said Janet Steele, president of the Albany Chamber. "Our work in Albany has focused around finding ways to ensure our local manufacturers have a strong supply of workers to fill the positions they have open now and those needed in the future."

January 28, 2015

Contact: Leslie Carver, 971-673-2947 (meeting information or accommodations)

Oregon Health Policy Board-Early Learning Council joint subcommittee to meet February 3 in Portland

What: The Oregon Health Policy Board/Early Learning Council Joint Subcommittee will meet Tuesday, February 3, in Portland. The primary focus of this meeting will be to review the committee's work to date and identify priorities for 2015. Public testimony will not be heard during the meeting.

When: Tuesday, February 3, 1-4 p.m.

Where: 800 NE Oregon Street, Room 1E, Portland

Agenda:

-- November minutes;

-- Progress updates;

-- Priority setting;

-- April agenda.

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

# # #

NOTE TO EDITORS:
* UPDATED video link: youtu.be/XsQWAmTGMmQ
* Attachments include: Transcripts in broadcast & AP style; mp3 audio dub; Wayne McFarlin jpg

After more than three decades of working in law enforcement in Salem and McMinnville, Wayne McFarlin is now the emergency preparedness administrator for Salem Health. "I have a healthy lifestyle," said McFarlin. "I thought I was in excellent shape."

That suddenly changed when McFarlin thought he had indigestion. A trip to Salem Hospital's emergency room revealed something more serious: Dr. Paul Gramenz, the ER's medical director, found McFarlin was having a heart attack.

Dr. Raghu Kamineni, a cardiologist with Salem Heart Center, discovered an 85 percent blockage in one of McFarlin's arteries and inserted stents to restore adequate blood flow in the hospital's cardiac catheterization lab.

Later in the hospital's cardiovascular care unit, McFarlin learned his heart attack had caused minimal damage. "It was reassuring to know that I was going to be okay," he said. Hospital rehab staff taught McFarlin a safer way to enjoy running, plus dietitians encouraged him to eat more heart-healthy fruits and vegetables.

"It's really important for people to know that even if they think they're in excellent health, things change," said McFarlin. "People need to be aware of their bodies, be listening to what their bodies are telling them and be ready to get care when they need it."

Salem Health produced a video about McFarlin available at this link: youtu.be/XsQWAmTGMmQ

February 2015 is American Heart Month and the perfect time to learn more about heart health. Salem Health is offering special events throughout the month--from free health screenings to several informal luncheons hosted by cardiologists from Salem Health Heart & Vascular Institute. Find more details online at salemhealth.org/heart/heart-month.php.

Salem Hospital is part of Salem Health, along with West Valley Hospital, Willamette Health Partners and other affiliated health care organizations offering exceptional care to people in and around Oregon's mid-Willamette Valley. The prestigious 2015 Truven Health 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals named Salem Hospital among the highest performing hospitals in the nation--and the only Oregon hospital, and one of two Pacific Northwest hospitals, to receive this honor. Visit us at salemhealth.org; "Like" us on facebook.com/salemhealth; follow us on Twitter: @salemhealth; and view us at youtube.com/salemhealth.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/977/81420/Salem_Health_video_transcript_BROADCAST_VERSION.docx , 2015-01/977/81420/Salem_Health_video_transcript_AP_STYLE_VERSION.docx , 2015-01/977/81420/Audio_from_Salem_Health_video.mp3 , 2015-01/977/81420/Wayne_McFarlin.jpg

****************Updated Release***************************************************
Investigators with Marion County Criminal Investigations Unit have completed processing the scene of the stabbing and continue to investigate the incident. Investigators have identified the victim in the stabbing as 24 year old Marcus Monk of Salem. The victim is still at Salem Hospital and we do not intend on releasing further information regarding the victims status.

Investigators will continue to interview witnesses as well process evidence left at the scene but the reason for the altercation is unknown at this time. We will not be releasing suspect information at this time but do not believe there is a risk to the public living in the area.

Investigators are asking anyone who may have witnessed the stabbing or have information regarding the stabbing to call The Sheriff's Office Tip Line at 503-540-8079. Callers can remain anonymous when leaving information.


***********************************************************************************

One male transported to Salem Emergency Room with stab wounds and deputies searching for suspects with a canine in the 4100 Block of Satter Dr NE, Salem.

Marion County Sheriff's Office received multiple calls reporting a male in his 20's had been stabbed at approximately 10:22 PM on 012715. Deputies are currently searching for suspects with a canine in the area.

The victim, who we will not be releasing the name of, was transported to Salem Hospital with serious injuries from being stabbed. Investigators with the Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Unit are responding to the scene at this time.

The Sheriff's Office does not anticipate releasing any further details tonight regarding this incident. We are asking anyone who may have information regarding the incident to call the Sheriff's Office Tip line at 503-540-8079, you can remain anonymous.

New Analysis Reveals Credit Unions Critical to Oregon and Washington Economies

SEATAC, WASHINGTON; TIGARD, OREGON -- A new economic analysis by the independent firm ECONorthwest discovered Northwest credit unions, as businesses, drove more than $6.8 billion dollars in economic impact, provided more than 15,000 family-wage jobs and delivered $352 million in direct benefits to their 4.9 million members in 2014.

Not-for-profit credit unions are financial cooperatives structured to put their members' interests first, and to ensure that families and small businesses have affordable access to financial services. The ECONorthwest analysis, commissioned in 2014 by the Northwest Credit Union Association, and conducted by ECONorthwest economist Michael Wilkerson, paints a clear picture of the important role credit unions serve in the region:

* Members appreciate direct benefits. Credit union members received an average direct benefit of $76 per individual member in Washington while Oregon credit union members received an average direct benefit of $63 per individual member. Collectively, credit unions put $352 million into the wallets of their members. That money went right back into the economy creating a ripple effect buying power of more than $732 million.

* Credit unions provide family-wage jobs. Credit unions employed 10,415 people in Washington and 4,908 in Oregon. Every credit union job supports another 2.02 jobs for workers in other sectors, according to ECONorthwest, resulting in a total impact of 46,296 Northwest jobs.

* Credit unions are foundational to the communities they serve. In Northwest rural communities, about 617,500 consumers are members of credit unions, representing 37% of the rural population. Credit unions are often the only financial institutions available in many Northwest communities.

There is more to the story.
The $6.8 billion in economic impact documented by the ECONorthwest study represents the effect of having credit unions as businesses in the Oregon and Washington economies. This does not include the additional economic impact created by lending activities such as auto lending, mortgage lending and business lending.

Credit unions offer a firm financial foundation for families through accessible loans. Consider the current snapshot of Northwest credit union lending, showing that nearly 3 million credit union loans totaling almost $40 billion are helping strengthen individuals, families and small businesses.

"The ECONorthwest analysis underscores the economic impact of credit unions in Oregon and Washington. In many ways, credit unions are the communities they serve," said Troy Stang, president and CEO of the Northwest Credit Union Association. "It is the not-for-profit financial cooperative business structure that credit unions operate under that makes them unique; they deliver real, tangible value to the economy. Credit unions were created to balance the credit structure of the nation and create a stronger financial foundation for the American people," Stang continued. "This analysis proves that credit unions are fulfilling the role for which they were created."

In addition to the ECONorthwest analysis, a new "Community Impact Report" documents the variety of ways Oregon and Washington credit unions help to make their communities better. To read the full reports, please visit www.nwcua.org/credit-union-impact.


The Northwest Credit Union Association is the not-for-profit trade association representing more than 160 of Oregon and Washington's credit unions and their consumer members. The NWCUA is the voice of the Northwest credit union movement, providing legislative, regulatory and public advocacy in addition to education, compliance, networking support and business solutions to its members. For information on how to join a credit union, please visit http://www.asmarterchoice.org.


Attached Media Files: ECOnorthwest Executive Summary

Oregon Heritage, a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Division (OPRD), will provide cash incentives to publicly accessible archives and museum collections that demonstrate a commitment to disaster preparedness.

Reimbursement for the purchase of equipment and supplies will be provided to organizations that can demonstrate that they have completed any of the following disaster preparedness commitments between April 13, 2013 and July 31, 2015.

* Organizations that complete an MOA for Oregon Heritage's MentorCorps program will be eligible for $50
o MentorCorps offers free expert guidance to organizations that manage public collections. For more information email heritage.mentorcorps@state.or.us or call (503) 968-0671

* Organizations that complete a Pocket Response Plan (PReP) phone tree will be eligible for $50
o Follow the link for a template PReP: http://www.oregon.gov/oprd/HCD/OHC/docs/OC2C%20Prep%20Plan.doc

* Organizations that complete a full disaster preparedness plan will be eligible for $500
o For more information consult: http://www.dplan.org/

All documentation must be received by OPRD by July 31, 2015. Organizations are encouraged to apply for more than one of the incentives. This award is made possible by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Sciences. For more information, please do not hesitate to call or email Mike Gushard, Heritage Outreach Specialist at (503) 986-0671 or mike.gushard@oregon.gov

Portland, OR - This year, AARP Foundation is again providing free tax assistance and preparation for taxpayers with low to moderate income through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, in its 48th year, is the nation's largest free tax assistance and preparation service, giving special attention the older population. You do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this service.

"In 2014 our 1,197 volunteers were able to obtain total income tax refunds for the nearly 81,000 participants of $55,978,686, and $1.6 billion in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC)," said Jerry Cohen, AARP Oregon State Director.

In 2014, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide's 36,000 volunteers at more than 5,000 sites provided 2.6 million people with free tax help. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers are trained and IRS-certified each year to ensure their knowledge of revisions to the U.S. tax code. Taxpayers who used AARP Foundation Tax-Aide received $1.3 billion in income tax refunds and more than $257 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs).

Last year, 1,197 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers in Oregon helped more than 80,795 people file their federal and state tax returns. The program is offered at approximately 134 sites in Oregon including senior centers, libraries and other convenient locations.

Preparation of tax returns under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) rules will require additional documentation from taxpayers this year. The good news is that for taxpayers on Medicare or Medicare Advantage for the full year, no further information is required. Otherwise, taxpayers need to bring along their family's health insurance coverage information including information about Marketplace/Exchange purchases, and health care exemptions.

For more information on documentation is required or to locate an AARP Foundation Tax-Aide site, visit www.aarp.org/findtaxhelp or call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888-227-7669). AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is offered in conjunction with the IRS.

###

About AARP Foundation

AARP Foundation is working to win back opportunity for struggling Americans 50+ by being a force for change on the most serious issues they face today: housing, hunger, income and isolation. By coordinating responses to these issues on all four fronts at once, and supporting them with vigorous legal advocacy, the Foundation serves the unique needs of those 50+ while working with local organizations nationwide to reach more people and make resources go further. AARP Foundation is a charitable affiliate of AARP. Learn more at www.aarpfoundation.org.


Attached Media Files: File your taxes

Wilsonville OR - The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission will hold its first meeting of the year Feb. 10-11 in Wilsonville.

On Feb. 10, commissioners will gather at 8 a.m. for orientation and begin workshops starting at 9 a.m. at Clackamas Community College, Wilsonville Campus, Room 155, 29353 SW Town Center Loop East, Wilsonville, Oregon, 97070.

On Feb. 11, commissioners will convene an executive session at 8:30 a.m. at the Wilsonville City Hall, 2nd Floor, 29799 SW Town Center Loop East, to discuss real estate and legal issues. Executive sessions are closed to the public. A public business meeting will begin at 9:45 a.m. at the same location. The agenda includes items that request approval of grants funded by recreation vehicle license revenues to Oregon counties, a property transfer to Crook County, and approval of a state park comprehensive plan for properties in the Columbia River Gorge, and other items.

The full meeting agenda is available online at http://tinyurl.com/feb2015agenda, and the meeting packet with information on each agenda item will be posted online at http://www.oregon.gov/oprd/Pages/commission.aspx by 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30. People who plan to present testimony are requested to provide 12 copies of their statement to Commission Assistant Jen Busey at jen.busey@oregon.gov for distribution to the Commissioners before the meeting. Those needing special accommodations to attend should contact OPRD at 503-986-0719 to make arrangements at least three days in advance.

The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission (www.oregon.gov/oprd/Pages/commission.aspx) promotes outdoor recreation and heritage by establishing policies, adopting rules, and setting the budget for the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. The seven members are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. They serve four-year terms and meet several times a year at locations across the state.

The public is invited to the Mid-Valley Local Emergency Planning Committee's (LEPC) annual meeting on Wednesday, February 11, 2015, from 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Linn Benton Community College; Calapooia Center Building 2; Fireside Room located at 6500 Pacific Boulevard SW, Albany Oregon.
In a proactive effort to enhance community safety in the event of a hazardous chemical release, Linn and Benton Counties established an LEPC. The LEPC is made up of emergency responders from police and fire, emergency planners, and representatives from health, education, media, hospitals, government, environmental groups, the public, and facilities in the community with extremely hazardous chemicals on site. The main goal of the LEPC is to work together to be better prepared in the event of a hazardous chemical release.
You are invited to this meeting to learn what an LEPC is all about and the benefits of having one in your community. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact Douglas Baily at douglas.baily@ci.corvallis.or.us or 541-766-6953.

Update:
On January 26, 2015, a Klamath County Grand Jury indicted Guage Lee Gray, age 22, on charges related to the fatal crash at South Side Bypass and Washburn Way on December 28, 2014. Gray was charged with two counts of Manslaughter in the First Degree, Two counts of Manslaughter in the Second Degree and Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII). A warrant issued for his arrest was served when an OSP trooper located him and arrested him without incident. Gray was lodged in the Klamath County Jail on the warrant.

No photographs are available at this time.

Original Release:
Correction to location: Highway 140 (not Highway 50) as previously released - OSP regrets the error.

On Saturday, December 28, 2014, at approximately 7:40 am, OSP troopers responded to the South Side Bypass (Hwy 140 East) near milepost 3, on a reported single vehicle rollover crash. A red Ford Ranger pickup was driving west bound and left the north side of the roadway, colliding with a road side lamp post and highway sign, then rolling several times into an adjacent pasture.

Two of the vehicles occupants, GARRETT ZIMMER, 22, of Hermiston, and MARRI D. YOUNG-WELLBAUM, 26, of Eagle Point, were ejected from the pickup and deceased at the scene. A third occupant, GUAGE L. GRAY,22, of Klamath Falls, was transported to Sky Lakes Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Speed, alcohol and icy road conditions are being investigated as contributing factors in the crash. None of the occupants in the vehicle were wearing safety restraints. This investigation is ongoing and no further details are available for release.

OSP was assisted at the scene by the Oregon Department of Transportation, Klamath County Fire District #1, and the Klamath County Sheriff's Office.

Original Release:
Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are just arriving on a single vehicle double fatality crash on HWY 50 (South side Bypass) at Washburn Road in Klamath Falls.

OSP is being assisted at the scene by ODOT and traffic at the location may be affected. For up to the minute traffic details please visit www.tripcheck.com.

Additional releases will be made as information becomes available.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SALEM,Ore., (1/27/2015) - Four tour buses, 250 people, 500 cowboy boots. This was the recipe used for a successful 2015 Pacific Northwest Young Cattlemen's Conference. The conference took place on January 23 and took its participants to El Oro Feedlot, Rathbun Angus Ranch, and concluded with dinner and speakers at Booker Auction Co.

For Thomas White, the tour marked the end of an enjoyable three year term as Oregon's Young Cattlemen's Committee Chair. White was impressed with the number of young participants that attended the conference. "It is a true testament to all of the hard work that Christina and the Washington Cattlemen's Association put into the tour," White said.

Among the participants was Eduardo Santacruz from Oregon State University. "My favorite part of the PNW tour was when we went to the Rathbun Angus ranch and learned about handling cattle, moving cattle around and loading them," Santacruz said. He also enjoyed learning about the ranches methods for bull development.

Besides showcasing the youth of the North West's interest in the cattle industry, the trip also marked the start of Keith Nantz's term as Oregon Young Cattlemen's Committee Chair. Nantz, a rancher from Maupin, Oregon, has served as chair for the National Young Cattlemen's Committee and is an avid member of the Oregon Cattlemen's Association.

"2015 is starting off with a bang," Nantz said. "As we begin a new year let's keep this momentum going forward and help create an organization full of excitement and opportunity." He encouraged Young Cattlemen's Committee members to follow the OCA Young Cattlemen's Committee facebook page in order to hear about YCC news and events. "I certainly hope to see just as many if not more for next year's tour." Nantz said.

The Oregon Cattlemen's Association was founded in 1913 and works to promote environmentally and socially sound industry practices, improve and strengthen the economics of the industry, and protect its industry communities and private property rights.

###


Attached Media Files: Participants listen to Greg Rathbun explain how his ranch operates.

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports on January 26, at 8:10 p.m. his deputies responded to a reported stabbing at a residence on River Drive in Lebanon.

The investigation revealed that Sean David McKee, 26-years old, of Lebanon was involved in an altercation with a friend, Anthony Allen Ensley, 32-years old, of Sweet Home.

During the altercation, McKee stabbed Ensley several times with a folding pocket knife that contained a four inch blade. Ensley who was not armed during the altercation, received life threatening stab wounds to his neck and back of the skull.

Ensley was transported to Lebanon Community Hospital and later transferred to Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis, where he was listed in stable condition.

Also injured during the altercation was Karen Mae McKee, 48-years old, of Lebanon. Karen is the mother of Sean McKee and the homeowner of the residence where this occurred. She received numerous minor injuries and superficial stab wounds. Karen McKee was treated at the scene by paramedics from the Lebanon Fire Department for her injuries.

Sean McKee was transported to the Linn County Jail where he was lodged for Attempted Murder, Assault in the first degree, and Assault in the second degree.

The investigation into this incident is ongoing as to a motive for the assault.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/2993/81389/sean_mckee.jpg

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports today at 8:28 a.m. his office received a call from Linn County Circuit Court advising they had received a telephonic bomb threat at the Linn County Courthouse.

The caller was described as a male voice with an accent, and said the words, "bomb in the building, bomb, bomb, bomb."

The courthouse was evacuated and a search of the building and its perimeter was conducted. No evidence of a bomb was found. Employees returned to work approximately 45 minutes after receiving the initial call.

The Albany Police Department assisted with traffic control and perimeter security.

The investigation continues as deputies will be attempting to identify a possible suspect.

AARP Fraud Watch Network Launches Education Effort to Foil Tax Identity Thieves

Every Day Behaviors Put Oregonians at Greater Risk of Tax ID Theft

Oregon Ranks 33rd In ID Theft Complaints

Portland, OR-- To coincide with Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week, the AARP Fraud Watch Network is launching an education effort to help people protect themselves from tax scams, releasing a new video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1l7GZCtGQko&feature=youtu.be, a tip sheet https://action.aarp.org/site/SPageNavigator/FWN_Tax_Fraud.html and encouraging people to take advantage of AARP's free tax preparation services.

Many taxpayers are putting themselves at greater risk of tax identity theft according to a recent national study released by the AARP Fraud Watch Network http://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2014/identity-theft-incidence-risk-behaviors.html in conjunction with the education campaign to help prevent scammers from stealing Oregonians hard-earned money.

"Throwing a pay stub in the trash may seem easier than finding a shredder, but the risk of having your tax refund stolen is just too great," said Shelley Buckingham, AARP director of communications. "The Fraud Watch Network is urging all Oregonians to file early so you can beat con artists to the punch."

According to the Federal Trade Commission http://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/reports/consumer-sentinel-network-data-book-january-december-2013/sentinel-cy2013.pdf, Oregon ranks 33rd in ID theft complaints. In this identity theft scheme, scammers electronically file a tax return under someone else's name to collect their tax refund. All they need is a birthdate and Social Security number, and many taxpayers make their personal information easy pickings by:

* Failing to lock their mailbox. Almost six in ten (59%) Americans do not regularly lock their mailbox, which leaves them open to a criminal stealing bills, tax forms and other documents that contain personal information.

* Leaving valuables exposed: Over half (54%) of Americans 18-49 have left at least one valuable personal item in their car in the last week (e.g., a purse/wallet, paystub, laptop) that could be used to steal their identity.

* Failing to destroy personal information: More than one in five (21%) Americans say they never shred any of the personal documents that could be used to steal their identity.

Tips on how to protect yourself and your family from tax identity theft include:

* Do mail tax returns as early in the tax season as possible before the cons beat you to it.

* Don't give out personal information unless you know who's asking for it and why they need it.

* Shred personal and financial documents.

* Know your tax preparer.

Oregonians are also encouraged to visit aarp.org/taxaide (1-888-227-7669) for information about AARP Foundation Tax Aide, the nation's largest free, volunteer-run tax preparation program. Each tax season, Tax Aide helps millions of low- to moderate-income taxpayers - especially those 60 and older - get the credits and deductions they deserve.

For these and other fraud prevention tips, visit aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork. For additional help, contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 800-908-4490 and visit irs.gov/identitytheft.

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Attached Media Files: 2015-01/4847/81382/092314_IDTheftSurveyTipstwt1.png

Portland General Electric's Sixth Leadership Symposium Slated for April 7, 2015

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Portland General Electric's 2015 Diversity Summit will take place on Tuesday, April 7, 2015 at the Oregon Convention Center, 777 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland, Ore. Two keynote speakers and more than 10 breakout seminars will emphasize the importance of how diversity and inclusion improve the ability for organizations to attract and retain diverse employees and customers. Tickets start at $99, available by visiting pgediversitysummit.com or calling 503-226-2377.

"Companies want new perspectives to help spur innovation and solve problems. The Portland General Electric Diversity Summit helps show them how," said Arleen Barnett, vice president of human resources, diversity & inclusion, and administration, Portland General Electric. "We're proud to bring leaders from across the U.S. and our region to discuss how diverse thinking helps meet business goals."

The Summit will feature two world-renown keynote speakers:

Frans Johansson is the best-selling author of "The Medici Effect" and "The Click Moment." A TEDx presenter on the topic of diversity, Johansson has spoken to audiences worldwide about intersectional innovation and success. Johansson is the founder and CEO of The Medici Group.

Bruce Tulgan is internationally recognized as an expert on engaging young people in the workplace and one of the leading experts on leadership and management. Founder of RainmakerThinking, Tulgan is a best-selling author and adviser to business leaders worldwide.

Topics covered during breakout seminars by diversity experts include:
* Cultural Agility in a Diverse World: Carol French and April Lewis
* Effective Leadership on Diversity and Inclusion: Steve Hanamura
* Gender Diversity-When Women Thrive: Tracy Bean
* Impact of Micro-Aggression: Miguel Valenciano
* Inclusive Digital Leadership for Diversity: Deena Pierott
* Insight on Disability: Dan Friess
* Intercultural Proficiency: Dr. Janet Bennett
* Managing Generational Differences: Bruce Tulgan
* Measuring Diversity Scorecards: Dr. Edward Hubbard
* Talent Acquisition and Retention for Diversity: Lillian Tsai
* Unconscious and Everyday Bias: Dr. Howard J. Ross

Event Details:

What: Diversity Summit 2015

When: Tuesday, April 7, 2015

Where:
Oregon Convention Center
777 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Portland, OR 97232

Cost:
* Early bird registration: $149.00 (through Feb. 28). After Feb. 28, the registration price will be $249.00.
* Non-profit registration: $109.00. This ticket is for non-profit organization attendees only. The non-profit organization name and email will be required.
* Student registration: $99.00. This is registration for current students. Student ID verification will be required at registration at the Summit.

Tickets:
* Visit pgediversitysummit.com or call 503-226-2377.

Sponsors:
* ACME Business Consulting, Bank of America, Bonneville Power Administration, Cambia Health Solutions, Fred Meyer, KeyBank, Knowledge Universe, Legacy Health, Mercer, NW Natural, Oregon Health & Science University, Port of Portland, Portland Business Journal, Providence Health & Services, Stoel Rives, The Oregonian, Towers Watson, Wells Fargo.

About Portland General Electric Company: Portland General Electric, headquartered in Portland, Ore., is a fully integrated electric utility that serves approximately 838,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in Oregon. Visit our website at PortlandGeneral.com. In 2014 PGE celebrated 125 years of powering Oregon.

# # #

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department's Scenic Bikeway Committee will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Travel Oregon office, located 317 S.W. Alder St., Suite 200, Portland. The meeting is open to the public.

The committee is an as advisory group for the management and designation of routes nominated by the public for state scenic bikeway designation. Its 11 members include representatives of bicycle advocacy organizations, tourism organizations, local governments, and state agencies involved in bicycling recreation or transportation.

The meeting site is accessible to people with disabilities. Special accommodations may be arranged up to 72 hours in advance by calling 503-986-0631.

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Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1303/81358/01-26_Scenic_Bikeways_meeting.doc

Salem - Oregon School Boards Association (OSBA) members will visit the U.S. Capitol next week to discuss educational priorities with members of Oregon's congressional delegation. In meetings scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 3, members will urge Congress to significantly improve components of the No Child Left Behind Act, reauthorize the Child Nutrition Act, and increase federal funding for Title I and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

They will also discuss long-term solutions to ensure that county timber payments continue to support public schools, and introduce OSBA's "The Promise of Oregon" campaign (www.promiseoregon.org) to highlight the accomplishments of Oregon students and ensure that schools are adequately funded.

OSBA Board members heading to Washington, D.C., for the National School Boards Association's Advocacy Institute include: President Dave Krumbein (Pendleton School Board), President-elect Bobbie Regan (Portland Public Schools Board), Secretary-Treasurer Sam Lee (Winston-Dillard School Board), Doug Montgomery (Multnomah Education Service District Board) and Betty Reynolds (West Linn-Wilsonville School Board). Also visiting will be members of OSBA's Legislative Policy Committee: Liz Hartman (Lake Oswego School Board), Nancy MacMorris-Adix (Salem-Keizer School Board) and Fred Marble (Forest Grove School Board).

Scheduled meetings include visits with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, and U.S. Representatives Earl Blumenauer, Suzanne Bonamici, Peter DeFazio, Kurt Schrader and Greg Walden. The OSBA group will also be attending a Feb. 2 luncheon at which Rep. Bonamici is the featured speaker.

If interested in speaking with an OSBA attendee about their planned meetings in the U.S. Capitol, contact OSBA Communications Specialist Alex Pulaski at 503-485-4812.

OSBA is a member services organization for more than 200 locally elected boards serving school districts, education service districts and community colleges. It also provides services to charter schools and their boards.

Cascades Region
3131 N. Vancouver Ave.
Portland, OR 97229
www.redcross.org/cascades






Portland, Ore., January 26, 2015 - 315 years ago today - more than 100 years before the United States would begin colonizing the area that eventually became Oregon and Washington - a powerful earthquake occurred along the Cascadia subduction zone, a plate that stretches from Vancouver Island, B.C., all the way to California.

The earthquake, which has been estimated to have had a moment magnitude of 8.7-9.2, is classified as a "megathrust earthquake" -- our planet's most powerful caliber of quake.

Local geologist Scott Burns, Ph.D., is a Red Cross Cascades Region board member who is often called on to discuss the effects of earth-shifting events. "Oregonians are more prepared today than they have been in the past," says Dr. Burns. "But we are far from ready for the effects of shaking, landslides, liquefaction and tsunamis that are sure to occur in the event the Cascadia subduction zone shifts."

Scientific evidence suggests that at least 13 other earthquakes have occurred along the Cascadia subduction zone over the past 2,500 years, with intervals of about 300 to 900 years between each event. While we can't predict the precise time and date of the region's next large earthquake, we can take some important precautionary steps to prepare for an emergency -- it could be another 600 years, or an earthquake could strike tomorrow.

The Red Cross recommends people take the following steps to prepare for an earthquake:

* Pick safe places in each room of your home, workplace and/or school. A safe place could be under a piece of furniture or against an interior wall away from windows, bookcases or tall furniture that could fall on you.
* Practice "drop, cover and hold on" in each safe place. If you do not have sturdy furniture to hold on to, sit on the floor next to an interior wall and cover your head and neck with your arms.
* Keep a flashlight and sturdy shoes by each person's bed in case the earthquake strikes in the middle of the night.
* Bolt and brace water heaters and gas appliances to wall studs.
* Bolt bookcases, china cabinets and other tall furniture to wall studs.
* Hang heavy items, such as pictures and mirrors, away from beds, couches and anywhere people sleep or sit.
* Learn how to shut off the gas valves in your home and keep a wrench handy for that purpose.
* Keep and maintain an emergency supply kit in an easy-to-access location.

In addition to following these steps, downloading the free Red Cross Earthquake App provides a host of information about what to do before, during and after a disaster. The app also provides alerts and notifications when an earthquake occurs, information on how to prepare your family and home, and how to find help and let others know you are safe even if the power is out. You can download the app directly from the iTunes or Google Play app stores.

For more information on disaster preparedness, the Cascades Region offers emergency preparedness presentations that can be scheduled for any type of organization including schools, faith-based organizations, businesses, government entities, neighborhood associations and nonprofits. Trained preparedness professionals lead these free classes and walk participants through the risks of various disasters. The presentation also provides attendees a first-hand look on how to put together a disaster kit and make a plan.

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

PR 01 15
BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, Jan. 26, 2015
CONTACT: Kevin Wingert, 503-230-4140/971-207-8390 or 503-230-5131

BPA hosts nation's largest regional science bowl
Students from Northwest compete for $134,000 in scholarships from 17 regional colleges, as well as a berth in National Science Bowl

Portland, Ore. - As many as 132 teams of middle and high school students from across western portions of Washington and Oregon will compete in the nation's largest regional science bowl over the next two weekends.

The Bonneville Power Administration is hosting the BPA Regional Science Bowl for the 24th straight year. The middle school competition is set for Saturday, Jan. 31, with the high school students taking to the buzzer on Saturday, Feb. 7, at the University of Portland. The top team in each division will travel all-expenses paid to Washington, D.C., to compete in the Department of Energy's National Science Bowl from April 30 to May 4.

Beyond the prestige of winning and the prospect of the national competition, BPA and science bowl volunteers have worked to establish partnerships with universities and colleges in the region to offer scholarships for the top three teams in the high school division. In all, 17 colleges and universities in the Northwest are offering $134,000 in scholarships to members of the top teams.

In addition to the competition, demonstrations and hands-on activities will take place throughout the day at the event. In the afternoon, a separate engineering competition allows teams that have not advanced to the double-elimination round to test their engineering and design skills in a hands-on project.

The more than 600 students in the competition come from public and private schools in western Washington and western and central Oregon - from as far north as Republic, Wash., and as far south as Ashland, Ore. Many practice for months, in groups and individually, for the competition, which is as intense as any sporting event, particularly at the high school level.

BPA sponsors the science bowl to showcase students' talents in science, technology, engineering and math, as well as to encourage them to consider careers in these fields. This helps to ensure a future labor pool of scientists and innovators so critical to the energy industry.

The BPA Regional Science Bowl is sponsored by the University of Portland, Google, Vernier Software & Technology and Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories Inc.

BPA REGIONAL SCIENCE BOWL 2015 - Middle School
Where: Franz Hall, University of Portland, Portland, Ore.
When: Jan. 31, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Notes: The event is free and open to the public. Championship rounds begin at approximately 4 p.m. in Buckley Auditorium.

BPA REGIONAL SCIENCE BOWL 2015 - High School
Where: Franz Hall, University of Portland, Portland, Ore.
When: Feb. 7, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Notes: The event is free and open to the public. Championship rounds begin at approximately 4 p.m. in Buckley Auditorium.

More info: www.bpa.gov/goto/ScienceBowl

Complete list of teams for both middle school and high school: www.bpa.gov/goto/ScienceBowlTeams

BPA is a nonprofit federal agency that markets renewable hydropower from federal Columbia River dams, operates three-quarters of high-voltage transmission lines in the Northwest and funds one of the largest wildlife protection and restoration programs in the world. BPA and its partners have also saved enough electricity through energy efficiency projects to power four large American cities. For more information, contact us at 503-230-5131 or visit our website at www.bpa.gov.

# # #

The Oregon Recreational Trails Advisory Council will meet from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 6 at the Bend Park & Recreation District Office, 799 SW Columbia St. The council welcomes public comments.

Council members will hear updates on regional trails programs, according to the agenda. The following day, council members will take a field trip of trail projects in Deschutes County.

The Oregon Recreational Trails Advisory Council (ORTAC) was established by the Legislature in 1971 to advise the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and to promote non-motorized trail recreation and development in Oregon. The Council is made up of seven volunteer members appointed by the Oregon Park and Recreation Commission to represent the five Oregon congressional districts. The Council meets four times annually in different locations across the state.

The agenda for this meeting is posted at http://www.oregon.gov/oprd/Trail_Programs_Services/Pages/Advisory-Committees.aspx#ORTAC_Meeting_Schedule_and_Minutes. For more information about the meeting or about ORTAC, contact Rocky Houston, State Trails Coordinator, at 503-986-0750 or rocky.houston@oregon.gov.

--WHO--
Energized Lane County residents and businesses dedicated to giving babies a healthy start in life, including David Walker of KVAL as emcee, 2015 Lane County March for Babies Chair Jenny Miles, VP of Commercial Banking for Umpqua Bank, and March of Dimes Southern Oregon Division Board Chair Chad Cordell

--WHAT--
2015 March for Babies Kickoff
Local champions for babies will gather to mark the start of the 2015 March for Babies season. Raising money to help babies is more important than ever, and past, current and first-time participants will gather to celebrate babies and discuss how to engage more walkers for this year's event than ever before. March for Babies is the March of Dimes largest fundraiser, with hundreds of walkers bringing in $118,000 in Lane County last year.

--WHEN--
Tuesday, January 27, 12:00 - 1:15 PM

--WHERE--
Valley River Inn in Eugene, McKenzie Ballroom

--WHY--
In an average week in Oregon, 877 babies are born - and 82 of them are born too soon. Premature babies often spend their first weeks in the NICU fighting for life, and often have lasting consequences such as vision and hearing loss or learning disabilities.

March of Dimes is the champion for all babies, those born healthy and those who need help to survive and thrive. Moms can rely on March of Dimes for everything they need to know about having a healthy baby and how to recognize the warning signs of premature labor.

More than 4 million babies were born in the United States last year, and the March of Dimes has helped each and every one through research, education, vaccines, and breakthroughs.


March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com. The 2015 March for Babies is sponsored nationally by the March of Dimes number one corporate supporter Kmart, Famous Footwear, Macy's, Cigna, United Airlines and Mission Pharmacal. Locally March for Babies is sponsored by First Tech Federal Credit Union, Big 5, PacificSource, Kendall Auto Group, Western Title, Valley River Inn, Eugene Emeralds, and KVAL.

Basic Corrections Local #BCL017 Graduation

Date: January 30, 2015

Location: Oregon Public Safety Academy at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon

Time: 11:00 a.m. / Reception following ceremony

All family and friends of students, supervisors, department heads and city and county officials are welcome to attend. Commander Kevin Schultz of the Marion County Sheriff's Office will be the keynote speaker.

Class Members

Bailey, Brandon - Florence Police Department
Beeson, Spencer - Lane County Sheriff's Office
Blanchard, Matthew - Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
Brazeal, Trevor - Marion County Sheriff's Office
Brooks, Joshua - Polk County Sheriff's Office
Cam, Tyler - Jackson County Sheriff's Office
Cherno, Ryan - Marion County Sheriff's Office
Curry-Roberts, Kolbey - Curry County Sheriff's Office
Curtis, Kyle - Curry County Sheriff's Office
Dollarhide, Brandon - Lane County Sheriff's Office
Downing, Tristan - Lane County Sheriff's Office
Fraser, Derek - Marion County Sheriff's Office
Guzman, Juan - Northern Oregon Correctional Facility
Hagert, Matthew - Jackson County Sheriff's Office
Karstendiek, Michael - Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
Korn, Ryan - Marion County Sheriff's Office
Lederer, Eric - Linn County Sheriff's Office
Lewis, Seth - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Lopezpalacios, Antonio - Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
Merrell, Kassity - Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
Miller, Jacob - Clackamas County Sheriff's Office
Nash, Loren - Linn County Sheriff's Office
Perkins, Travis - Union County Sheriff's Office
Reed, Jamieson - Lane County Sheriff's Office
Reid, Eric - Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
Rennels, Jedidiah - Jackson County Sheriff's Office
Rodriguez, Oscar - Northern Oregon Correctional Facility
Rush, Erica - Union County Sheriff's Office
Sandquist, Lacey - Clackamas County Sheriff's Office
Schnell, Jess - Northern Oregon Correctional Facility
Singh, Amardeep - Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
Stinnett, Samuel - Grant County Sheriff's Office
Thorne, Heather - Umatilla County Sheriff's Office
Tyson, Kyle - Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
Vinson, Nicholas - Linn County Sheriff's Office
Whitaker Jr., Johnny - Marion County Sheriff's Office
Wohlers, David - Clackamas County Sheriff's Office
Yenchik, Joseph - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office

## Background Information on the DPSST ##

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) operates the Oregon Public Safety Academy which spans more than 235 acres in Salem. Eriks Gabliks serves as the Director, and Chief Kent Barker of the City of Tualatin Police Department serves as the Chair of the Board. The department implements minimum standards established by the Board for the training and certification of more than 40,000 city, county and state law enforcement officers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, fire service personnel, telecommunicators, emergency medical dispatchers and private security providers.

DPSST provides training to more than 25,000 students each year throughout Oregon and at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem: certifies qualified officers at various levels from basic through executive; certifies qualified instructors; and reviews and accredits training programs throughout the state based on standards established by the Board.

January 26 marks the anniversary of the last major Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake that shook the Pacific Northwest 315 years ago. Scientists predict the next major Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake could strike our state at any time.

"Scientists believe Oregon is in the average window of time during which another massive, destructive quake could occur," said Althea Rizzo, Geologic Hazards Program Coordinator.

Oregon is located in the Cascadia Subduction Zone a fault line stretching from offshore British Columbia to Northern California. Experts say a rupture on the Cascadia Fault line will likely result in a 9.0 or higher earthquake with the potential to devastate the area.

"A quake of this size will produce severe damage - buildings will be so damaged that restoring full utility service could takes months to years," said Rizzo. "We are taking steps right now to prepare our state for a potential Cascadia earthquake."

Rizzo said new guidelines recommend individuals prepare an emergency kit for at least two weeks, prior recommendations were for a three day kit.

"Highways may be down and electricity out for days making it critical for you to have enough supplies to sustain yourself for weeks," said Rizzo.

State and local government, private businesses and non-governmental organizations are doing much to prepare for the next Cascadia quake but individual preparedness is critical. There are many actions you can take to prepare for the next earthquake. Review the information below for more information.

-Check out "Living on Shaky Ground: How to Survive Earthquakes and Tsunamis in Oregon" published by Oregon Emergency Management;
-Read the "Without Warning Comic Book" produced by Dark Horse Comics here: http://www.oregon.gov/OMD/OEM/Pages/plans_train/earthquake.aspx
-Visit Ready.gov for resources on how you can be prepared before, during and after an earthquake;

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation of a drive-by shooting in Northern Klamath County, which prompted a SWAT response to La Pine early this morning.

Preliminary information from on-scene commanders indicates that just before 2:00 A.M., this morning, 9-1-1 call centers in Klamath County received a report of shots being fired at or into a residence on Collar Drive, just south of La Pine. Troopers investigating the incident learned the suspect, identified as 31-year-old GARY T. DAVIS, of La Pine, had threatened a man at that location previously. No injuries were reported during the shooting and the matter is still under investigation.

Shortly before 7:00 A.M., troopers and Deschutes County Sheriff's Department deputies, tracked DAVIS to a residence at 52905 Meadows Lane, in La Pine (Deschutes County) where he was staying with his girlfriend, identified as TASHA L. MURPHEY, age 24, also of La Pine. Troopers and deputies who arrived began negotiating with the subjects who barricaded themselves in the residence. A limited number of OSP SWAT personnel were dispatched to the scene to assist with the incident.

At approximately 9:50 A.M., DAVIS was taken into custody without further incident on a probation violation with additional charges pending. MURPHEY was not injured during the incident. OSP Criminal Investigative Services Division is continuing the investigation.

The Board of Directors of Lane Education Service District will meet on January 27, 2015. A work session is scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m., and this session will focus on the Year Two 2014-17 Local Service Plan. The regular Board Meeting session will begin at 6:00 p.m.

Lane Education Service District Board of Directors meetings are held at Lane Education Service District, 1200 Highway 99 N, Eugene, OR.

On Wednesday, January 21, 2015, a 24 year old woman was trying on garments in the Target dressing room when she noticed a smart phone was being held under the door and angled up toward her, possibly recording her as she changed.

Video surveillance led to a person of interest in the case, who appears to be a Hispanic male, approximately 30 years of age, wearing a blue work uniform. Surveillance images are being released to the public for assistance in identifying this individual.

Anyone with information in regard to this case is encouraged to contact the Albany Police Department at (541)917-7680.


Attached Media Files: Target Person of Interest View 2 , Target Person of Interest

A five-member committee tasked with advising the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) on the state's Smoke Management Plan will meet Feb. 4 in Salem. Highlight items on the agenda include:

- Fall prescribed burning season review - Committee members will review prescribed forest burning activity and smoke intrusions that occurred during fall 2014.
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- West Bend forest restoration - Prescribed burning has been identified as an important tool to restore an overgrown forest tract west of the community of Bend in central Oregon. An update on the pace and scale of the project will be given.

- Smoke management data system charter - The committee will receive a status report on the effort to develop a new online database system for processing prescribed burning requests.

- Air quality non-attainment in Prineville - Testing has indicated that the community of Prineville is not meeting federal and state air quality standards due to various air quality impacts. The committee will discuss what this will mean for smoke management in the event that Prineville is listed as a "non-attainment" community.

- Discussion of available funding to support burning - The committee will determine how to most effectively allocate funds to reach prescribed burning goals in the future.

The meeting agenda can be viewed online at: www.oregon.gov/odf/Pages/fire/fire.aspx#Smoke_Management_Information

The meeting will run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Tillamook Room - Administration Building (C), Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, 2600 State St., in Salem.

The meeting is open to the public, and public comments will be received at 10:10 a.m. and 1:50 p.m.

By Oregon statute, the Smoke Management Advisory Committee includes representatives of industrial and non-industrial forest landowners, the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and the general public.


Attached Media Files: Prescribed foreste burning removes excess vegetation, reducing the risk of damaging wildfires. The Oregon Smoke Management Plan regulates prescribed burning to enable forest landowners to manage their forests productively while minimizing smoke intrusions

Portland, Ore. (January 22, 2014) - OMSI is telling families to get lost!--and get their hands on some brain-bending science--in the new Mazes feature exhibition which opens to the public on Saturday, February 7!

Visitors will be challenged to explore 13 interactive mazes and come face to face with mystifying illusions and mind-boggling puzzles! Each maze features a dynamic environment where guests will discover a surprise around every corner, and develop new methods of problem-solving through improvisation, trial and error, observation and testing, and logic and reasoning.

Solve puzzles and patterns, challenge the relationship between the mind and the eye and nurture your inner musician! Mazes offers challenging and interactive maze experiences for all ages including the Music Maze, Puzzle Maze, Color Maze and Maze of Illusions! Guests can also run a marathon with their fingers in the Continuous Quad Maze or become a "webmaster," climbing over and under without getting tangled, through an intricate web of ropes.

"Puzzles and brainteasers are part of everyday life--from navigating crowds to tackling the daily crossword puzzle--our brains are constantly problem-solving," says OMSI President Nancy Stueber. "At Mazes, guests of every age can learn how our minds work to solve these challenges, and put their own skills to the test in a variety of fun and exciting ways."

Mazes will be on display in the Featured Exhibit Hall at OMSI from February 7, 2015 to May 6, 2015.

Media: Visit omsi.edu/press for exhibit photos and additional information.


About OMSI
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation's leading science museums, a world-class tourist attraction, and an award-winning educational resource for the kid in each of us. OMSI operates the largest museum-based outdoor science education program in the country and provides traveling and community outreach programs that bring science learning opportunities to schools and community organizations in every county in Oregon. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit omsi.edu.

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Beginning tomorrow 01/24 through 01/30, Public Information Officer Sergeant Chris Baldridge will be unavailable. If you require a PIO you must call the PIO line at 503-584-6276 or 503-584-MCSO. Thank you.

The Business Oregon commission will hold a regular meeting Friday, January 30, 2015. The meeting will be 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at The Mill Casino Hotel at 3201 Tremont Avenue in North Bend.

You can view the agenda and the commission roster online.

Unanticipated agenda items may or may not be included. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to: Denise Thayer at 503-229-5009.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1504/81280/Business_Oregon_Commission_Agenda_1.30.15.pdf

State Fire Marshal Jim Walker is encouraging communities across the state to honor the work of those in the fire service by organizing events or ceremonies for Fire Service Appreciation Day in Oregon, Tuesday, January 27.

"Communities have many opportunities to get involved and recognize the work and sacrifice of members of the Oregon fire service," says State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. "From community groups hosting a breakfast, lunch, or dinner, to schools holding essay contests, this day is an opportunity for everyone to say thanks."

In 2007, the Oregon legislature passed House Joint Resolution 25, establishing January 27 each year, as Fire Service Appreciation Day in Oregon. The Legislative Assembly encourages all Oregonians to recognize and honor fire service members for their efforts to keep our citizens safe from the ravages of fire.

Local recognition in past years included city mayors presenting fire chiefs with a certificate of thanks, fire district boards presenting commemorative coins and certificates to volunteers, newspaper articles and special ads thanking members of the fire service, and citizens taking local firefighters to lunch.


Attached Media Files: Firefighters fly the U.S. flag over the Oregon State Capital during a past Fire Service Appreciation Day

Two grant writing workshops will be conducted by Oregon Heritage of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. The workshops are free and open to anyone. One will be from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 3 at 725 Summer St. NE, Room 124A, Salem. The second will be online from 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Feb. 5.

Both free workshops will cover project planning and tips for successful grant applications. The last portion of the workshop will be training on the OPRDGrantsOnline application system. This training is highly recommended if you plan to apply for one of Oregon Heritage's many grants. These grants fund historic cemetery, museum, archaeology, historic property and other heritage projects.

For information on the grant programs please visit our website or contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.Gill@oregon.gov or 503-986-0685. You will need to contact Gill to receive access information for the online workshop.


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The American Red Cross will install free smoke alarms and provide fire safety education for residents in Springfield's 97477 ZIP code Jan. 31, and the organization needs volunteers to help.

"Across the nation, six times per day, someone dies in a home fire in the United States," Red Cross Disaster Program Manager Frank Spangler said, adding that more than 60 percent of the deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms. "A fire department is called to a home fire almost 1,000 times every day."

Oregon and Southwest Washington Red Cross disaster action team volunteers respond to an average of two home fires each day. Between July 2013 and June 2014, they provided temporary shelter, food, clothing and other services to more than 700 families affected by fires.

In addition to responding to fires, the Red Cross offers a variety of educational programs to help communities prepare for home fires and other disasters. Red Cross advocates being informed, having a plan and building an emergency preparedness kit. Volunteers hope to contact 1,500 to 2,000 households during the Springfield event alone.

"The goal for the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign is it to reach out to as many households as possible to ensure that each has a working smoke alarm. We will offer to install smoke alarms which are provided for free, thanks to our partnership with the State Fire Marshal's office," Spangler said. "Our volunteers will discuss fire safety and give a Red Cross Prepare! Resource Guide to each home, whether a smoke alarm is needed or not. We will see if they have a evacuation plan in place."

Red Cross is also appealing to a variety of civic organizations to recruit volunteers for the Springfield event. Volunteers will receive onsite training and work a minimum of five hours. Event organizers hope to recruit 15 teams of three people each. Teams will consist of smoke alarm installers, fire safety educators and installation documenters.

Interested volunteers can register or find more information at www.redcross.org/cascadeshfpc

Jan. 22, 2015
Con artists target seniors by pretending to be legitimate heating/air conditioning businesses

Salem - People pretending to work for legitimate heating and air conditioning businesses are approaching homeowners in the Willamette Valley, demanding money up front and working without a contractor's license.

In at least some cases, they are selling and installing equipment improperly.

In recent weeks, suspects tried to solicit work cleaning ducts and inspecting heating and air systems both door-to-door and through phone calls. Generally, they targeted Willamette Valley homeowners over age 65.

One suspect fled in his van after a caretaker for an elderly Keizer resident called the heating company to verify employment.

"It is rare for legitimate, licensed contractors to go door-to-door, and they don't usually call you out of the blue," Construction Contractors Board Enforcement Manager Stan Jessup said.

The suspects give out a business name with their pitch to work. When homeowners say they don't recognize the business as the one they normally use, the suspects often say they are a subcontractor. Or, they might say they bought another company's maintenance contract or they use a different assumed business name.

At least 10 legitimate heating and air conditioning businesses report people fraudulently claiming to be affiliated with legitimate HVAC companies.

The Construction Contractors Board is among the state and local law enforcement agencies that are investigating cases.

Report scams
If you are not sure about someone approaching you for work:
* Ask to check your calendar and say you'll call back. Call the business you regularly use to verify any appointments. If someone shows up at the door, tell them "no."
* Report suspicious encounters to police or sheriff's deputies. Also, alert the CCB (503-934-2229) or the Oregon Department of Justice (877-877-9392).
* Never give out personal information such as a Social Security or credit card number or pay in cash.
* Always check a construction contractor's CCB license number to verify a worker is legitimate. You can do that online at www.oregon.gov/ccb or by calling 503-378-4621.

#
About the CCB
The CCB is the state agency licensing 33,000 contractors. Anyone who is paid to repair, improve or build a home must be licensed. Learn more about how to have a successful project at www.oregon.gov/ccb.

Tips that lead to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for a five-alarm fire that consumed a Portland apartment complex could result in a reward of up to $5,000.

The FBI is offering this reward in conjunction with the August 8, 2013, arson at the "Monroe Apartments" - a 46-unit building that was under construction at 318 NE Monroe Street. Callers to 9-1-1 reported the blaze to the Portland Fire & Rescue at 4:14 am on this date. Several nearby homes and vehicles also suffered significant damage. Investigators put the damage estimate at $6,070,000.

The FBI is offering the reward at this time in an effort to generate new leads in this investigation. The FBI has been working with investigators from Portland Fire & Rescue, Portland Police Bureau, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) since the time of the fire to determine whether those with ties to domestic terrorism groups are responsible for the damage.

Anyone who wants to report tips about the arson should call the FBI at (503) 224-4181 or Detective Joseph Luiz at (503) 823-3408.


###

Note: Photo Credit should read "Portland Fire & Rescue"


Attached Media Files: Monroe St Apt Fire - 4 - Aug 8 2013 , Monroe St Apt Fire - 3 - Aug 8 2013 , Monroe St Apt Fire - 2 - Aug 8 2013 , Monroe St Apt Fire - 1 - Aug 8 2013

Today at about 10:00 a.m., detectives with the Marion County Sheriff's Office arrested Peter Bass, age 36, of Brooks. After his arrest, Mr. Bass was taken to the Marion County Jail and he is awaiting arraignment on fifteen counts of Sodomy I and fifteen counts of Sex Abuse II.
As a result of the investigation Mr. Bass has been terminated from his position as a youth pastor at the Brooks Assembly of God. Currently the Sheriff's Office has not identified any victims associated to Mr. Bass's position at the church.

The Sheriff's Office is however seeking any information regarding Mr. Bass or any information regarding additional victims. If you have information regarding this investigation please call Detective Nancy Hubbard with the Marion County Sheriff's Office at 503-316-6635.


Attached Media Files: Bass

Working together with our partners at the City of Sublimity and Marion County Public Works, the speed limit on NW Starr Street in Sublimity has been changed to 35 MPH. This change comes after taking into consideration, public comment and several traffic studies conducted by the public works department.

The new speed limit for the entire stretch of NW Starr Street in Sublimity is now 35 MPH. In the past the speed zone included two different speed limits. Sheriff's Deputies, signage and a radar trailer will be used to warn residents of the new changes.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1294/81235/Sublimity_Change.jpg , 2015-01/1294/81235/35.jpg

Below are North Bend School District Public Meetings currently scheduled:

January 7, 2015
Special School Board Meeting- Work Session at 5:30 p.m.
North Bend School District Office
1913 Meade St., North Bend, OR

January 13, 2015 - REVISED
Regular School Board Meeting at 7:00 p.m. with possible Executive Session
North Bend High School
Hall of Champions
2323 Pacific Ave., North Bend, OR

January 29, 2015
Special School Board Meeting at 5:30 p.m.
North Bend School District Office
1913 Meade St., North Bend, OR

The schedule is subject to change.
For agenda information visit www.nbend.k12.or.us

Oregon's Unemployment Rate Drops to Six-Year Low

Oregon's unemployment rate dropped from 7.0 percent in November to 6.7 percent in December, the lowest level since August 2008, right before the worst days of the financial crisis which led to the Great Recession.

Jobs grew rapidly again in December. During the last three months of 2014, employment grew by a total of 24,300, the largest three-month gain since comparable records began in 1990. Nonfarm payroll employment rose by 8,200 in December. This followed a revised gain of 8,700 in November, with growth not as strong as the originally estimated gain of 11,200. These monthly job totals are produced each month by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Gains in December were broad-based, as seven of the major industries each added at least 800 jobs. It is rare for so many industries to gain that many jobs in one month. Retail trade (+2,000 jobs), government (+2,000), health care and social assistance (+1,600), construction (+900), transportation, warehousing and utilities (+800), leisure and hospitality (+800), and other services (+800) were the industries adding the most jobs.

A large drop in the number of unemployed Oregonians coincided with December's employment growth. The labor force barely grew in December, unlike the rapid labor force growth seen in recent months. Fewer unemployed and an unchanged labor force contributed to the drop in the unemployment rate.

Note: all numbers above are seasonally adjusted.

Next Press Releases
The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the December county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Monday, January 26th and the statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for January on Tuesday, March 3rd.

The Oregon Employment Department is responsible for releasing Oregon's monthly payroll employment and labor force data. The data are prepared in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS estimates of monthly job gains and losses are based on a survey of businesses. The BLS estimates of unemployment are based on a survey of households and other inputs.

The Oregon Employment Department publishes payroll employment estimates that are revised quarterly by using employment counts from employer unemployment insurance tax records. All department publications use this official Oregon series data unless noted otherwise. This month's release incorporates the April, May and June 2014 tax records data. The department continues to make the original nonfarm payroll employment series available; these data are produced by the BLS and are revised annually.


For the complete pdf version of the news release, including tables and graphs, visit www.QualityInfo.org/press-release, then within the Press Release Documents list, select Oregon Monthly Employment Situation. To obtain the data in other formats such as in Excel, visit www.QualityInfo.org, then within the top banner select Economic Data, then choose LAUS or CES. If you want the press release as a Word document, please phone the contact person shown at the top of this press release.

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

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


Attached Media Files: Employment in Oregon December 2014 News Release

Police Department Offers a Citizen's Academy


Contact: Dala Johnson (541) 258-4339

Eight-Week Course held Tuesdays
Beginning Tuesday March 3, 2015
6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Lebanon Justice Center
40 North 2nd St.
Lebanon, Oregon


The Lebanon Police Department will give interested citizens of Lebanon an inside look at the workings of their law enforcement agency. A Citizens Police Academy, scheduled to begin Tuesday March 3, 2015, will be an opportunity to meet staff, hear what they do and participate in some hands-on-activities.

The course outline includes an overview of criminal and traffic law, domestic violence, use of force and safety. Also included are demonstrations by officers and an optional day at the Firearms Range.

Students having completed this course will have an excellent understanding of the police department and it efforts to strive toward achieving its mission of providing safety and security for the citizens of Lebanon.

The Citizens Academy is part of a continuing effort to educate the public in the challenges facing municipal law enforcement agencies today. Its objective is to familiarize students with Lebanon Police Department's role in the community, mandated training requirements and crime prevention.

"This course is valuable in that it allows citizens and police department staff to meet in a casual setting and get to know one another, which is a vital ingredient in our community policing strategy," says Police Chief Frank Stevenson.

Applicants must pass a criminal history background check. For more information, or to receive an application packet, contact Dala Johnson (541) 258-4339. Applications can also be picked up at the Justice Center Monday through Friday 8am to 5 pm. Application deadline is February 23, 2015.

The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is pleased to announce the graduation of its 346th Basic Police Class.

The Basic Police Class is 16-weeks in length and includes dozens of training areas including survival skills, firearms, emergency vehicle operations, ethics, cultural diversity, problem solving, community policing, elder abuse, drug recognition, and dozens of other subjects.

Basic Police 346 Graduation will be held on January 23, 2015 at 11 am at the Oregon Public Safety Academy at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon.

Any questions please call Academy Training Supervisor Teresa Plummer at DPSST (503) 378-2191 or e-mail her at teresa.plummer@state.or.us

Members of Basic Police BP346

Officer Scott Adam - Albany Police Department
Deputy Justin Armstrong - Union County Sheriff's Office
Officer Timothy Artoff - Grants Pass Department of Public Safety
Deputy Nathan Biel - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Christopher Bonebrake - Douglas County Sheriff's Office
Officer Jose Cabrera - Hillsboro Police Department
Officer Robert Call - Molalla Police Department
Deputy Emigdia Camas - Washington County Sheriff's Office
Officer Andrew Cartwright - Medford Police Department
Officer Tyler Colson - McMinnville Police Department
Officer Rodney Cottis - Lake Oswego Police Department
Deputy Stephanie Cronk - Clackamas County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Tanner Davis - Clackamas County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Courtney Deming - Marion County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Daniel Drumheller - Clackamas County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Christopher Erhardt - Deschutes County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Brent Everett - Douglas County Sheriff's Office
Officer Kevin Frahm - Philomath Police Department
Officer David Gilbertson - Portland Police Bureau
Officer Dennis Greiner - Tillamook Police Department
Deputy Benjamin Klecker - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Officer Stephen Kosiewicz - Silverton Police Department
Deputy Ricco Lang - Douglas County Sheriff's Office
Officer Noah Lochner - Philomath Police Department
Officer Theron Logan - Eagle Point Police Department
Officer Jair Macareno - Astoria Police Department
Deputy Jerred Nelson - Linn County Sheriff's Office
Officer Kyle Nelson - Sutherlin Police Department
Deputy Gregory Ramseyer - Marion County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Ariel Schermerhorn - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Officer Fred Schoeffler - Hillsboro Police Department
Deputy Jeremy Schwab - Marion County Sheriff's Office
Officer Torrey Streed - Portland Police Bureau


## Background Information on the DPSST ##

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) operates the Oregon Public Safety Academy which spans more than 235 acres in Salem. Eriks Gabliks serves as the Director, and Chief Kent Barker of the City of Tualatin Police Department serves as the Chair of the Board. The department implements minimum standards established by the Board for the training and certification of more than 40,000 city, county and state law enforcement officers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, fire service personnel, telecommunicators, emergency medical dispatchers and private security providers.

DPSST provides training to more than 25,000 students each year throughout Oregon and at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem: certifies qualified officers at various levels from basic through executive; certifies qualified instructors; and reviews and accredits training programs throughout the state based on standards established by the Board.

The Lebanon Fire District responded to the report of smoke in a first floor apartment of a 3 story apartment building just after 4 PM on Tuesday, January 20, 2015. A Paramedic Unit was first on scene, as other fire units were returning from a non-injury Motor Vehicle crash on the other end of the town. Upon arrival the Unit reported light smoke coming from the apartment, made entry and discovered a box of food on a stove top smoking heavily. The crews removed the box, and with the assistance of the Engine crew aired out the apartment with a ventilation fan. 2 units and 5 personnel were on scene, and 3 other units were cancelled enroute. The Lebanon Fire District would like to remind everyone of the dangers of placing any combustible items on stove tops.

The Benton County Sheriff's Office, will be participating in extra DUII saturation patrol and enforcement on the day of the NFL Super Bowl on February 1, 2015. There will be extra patrol targeting individuals who choose to drive under the influence of intoxicants and therefore endanger themselves and others on our roadways. The Benton County Sheriff's Office already actively patrols for this crime, but this is extra enforcement added to target this dangerous offense.

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


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1505/81209/Drunk_driving.jpg

Salem, Ore. - Art as a medium to rally community around a shared need is reflected in 34 Oregon projects awarded $200,000 in 2015 Arts Build Communities grants from the Oregon Arts Commission.

Vacant downtown storefronts become celebrations of community in Corvallis; incarcerated youth fulfill treatment requirements by sharing their stories through pictures or performance in Clackamas County; and in Enterprise, Fishtrap inspires 1,700 people to read Luis Alberto Urrea's "Into the Beautiful North" before engaging in discussions, events and activities that explore Latino issues.

Now in its 19th year, the Arts Build Communities program targets broad geographic impact and arts access for underserved audiences. More than half of the 2015 awards go to communities outside of the Portland area.

"This program demonstrates the amazing power of art to bring people together around a common purpose," says Commission Chair Julie Vigeland, who led the review panel. "Due to a melding of this program with our former Cultural Tourism grants, we were able to award the largest grant total in the program's history. The award amounts are relatively modest, but the impact is huge."

In many cases the awards are seed money to spur additional local funding. In 2012 alone, Arts Build Communities projects attracted more than $570,000 in spending, much of it representing salaries paid to artists and others as well as products and services purchased in the funded communities.

Arts Build Communities grants are made possible through a funding partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts.

The 2015 recipients are:

The Arts Center, $8,000, Corvallis - Art in Rural Storefronts is a place-making project dedicated to strengthening connections between people and their hometowns through engagement with art. Focusing on one underserved rural town, three artists create contemporary art installations based on concepts from local cultural or natural history and community input. The installations transform vacant storefronts, signs of economic stress, into celebrations of community life through the arts.

Arts Council of Pendleton, $6,000, Pendleton - The goal of this project is promote traditional fine crafts of the region by creating self-guided tours of the artists' studios and retail outlets that display their work. Included is the creation of a database of Eastern Oregon fine crafts workers; the design, printing and distribution of a publication that lists open studio locations with maps and hours of operation; creation and marketing of four self-guided studio and outlet tours; and three workshops.

Ballet Folklorico Ritmo Alegre, $3,500, Talent - Cultural Bridges to Friendship will bring a Latino cultural arts course to 600 children from local K-12 schools. Planned by educators from six local schools and Ballet Folklorico Ritmo Alegre, it will teach Latino culture through Mexican folk culture and dance and provide participatory programs for Latino and non-Latino students in a community performance and class. Funding will be used to pay for busing and reduced ticket prices for the community performance.

The Circus Project, $7,000, Portland - Funding will support the expansion of outreach partnerships with four schools serving primarily youth from low-income families. The curriculum will be based on the existing eight-week model used in social service agency settings serving youth who have had little or no access to arts education. Funds will be used for artist and coach salaries and for the purchase and upkeep of program equipment.

Chehalem Cultural Center, $7,200, Newberg - Focus Culture brings the Northwest's indigenous art and traditions home through a partnership with the Chachalu Tribal Museum and Cultural Center. The collaboration includes a series of free public events, performances, field trips, hosted conversations, outreach and workshops - all within the context of an evolving exhibition that will change from a historical focus to a contemporary arts focus over four months.

Clackamas County Arts Alliance, $7,000, Oregon City - Youth Arts for Change gives teens in the County Juvenile Department and Parrott Creek residential facility a unique way to fulfill probation/treatment requirements. Working with artists, counselors and peers, adjudicated youth publicly share their stories via a theatre performance or drawing exhibit, building community connections and social skills. Funds will support programming, professional theatre internships, and a new prevention partnership for rural middle-school youth.

Cornucopia Arts Council, $4,500, Halfway - The Clear Creek Music Festival provides instructional and performance enrichment for Eastern Oregon rural community members through concerts; group and individual voice, piano, cello and composition instruction; and classes in music appreciation, choral performance and a two-week Kids' Camp. Support will fund the concert fees, instrument rental and a Kids' Camp instructor.

Crow's Shadow Institute of the Arts, $6,195, Pendleton - Crow's Shadow Institute of the Arts will partner with Nixya'awii Community School to offer comprehensive art programs to its students. This project will engage the student population in art making, production and display. Crow's Shadow will provide the space, technical expertise and resources to the students; the school will provide basic instruction and logistics. Funding will support space, materials, technical instruction, exhibition, display and public receptions.

Deschutes Public Library Foundation, $5,000, Bend - The Deschutes Public Library's community read program, A Novel Idea, broadens cultural, social, educational and economic areas of community life by ensuring wide access through partnerships with local artists, organizations and businesses. Residents are encouraged to read, discuss, create and explore the selected community read book together. Grant funds will be used to purchase books and assist in paying for the selected author's honorarium.

Drexel H. Foundation, $3,500, Vale - The Drexel Foundation's rural Oregon multicultural youth and family programs build audiences and art appreciation while promoting personal growth and connecting the community through various art opportunities. The 2015 collaborative public art project is the result of planning by local high school youth, artists, community leaders, the Drexel Foundation and the mayor of the City of Vale, who all indicated a desire and need for artistic improvement to our city streetscape for economic development.

Eugene Springfield Art Project, $3,000, Eugene - ChalkFest 2015 will bring chalk artists (local and out of town), performing artists and local residents to downtown Springfield for a free festival during which large scale chalk art is created while music plays and street artists perform. The event also will feature a family fun zone with a free-for-all chalk art area and take away art activities. This second annual event is supported by NEDCO, Emerald Art Center and the City of Springfield in an effort to revitalize downtown through creative community events.

Eugene Symphony Association, $7,000, Eugene - The Eugene Symphony's Roseburg Residency is a collaboration with the Umpqua Symphony Association and the Douglas County Youth Orchestra that includes all-ages concerts and related programs for young musicians. The project will provide Roseburg residents access to symphonic performances and strengthen local cultural resources and music education. The Symphony will include eight months of artistic development activities for students, culminating in an all-ages concert.

Fishtrap, Inc., $7,000, Enterprise - Beginning Jan. 8, Fishtrap will host its ninth Big Read, a month-long, countywide celebration of a work of literature. The featured book will be Luis Alberto Urrea's "Into the Beautiful North." 1,700 people throughout Wallowa County will read the book and come together for facilitated discussions, school presentations, lectures, films, potlucks, a finale with the author, and other activities promoting reading and discussion of key issues. This project stimulates community connection during winter months when rural isolation is at its highest.

Harney County Arts in Education Foundation, $7,000, Tigard - Harney County Arts in Education Foundation's board will partner with the Harney County Chamber of Commerce to hold a two-day symposium in May 2015 to inform national, state and local leaders on the successes of communities that have used the arts as an economic development strategy in rural communities, as well as to demonstrate relevance to the proposed Performing Arts and Education Center.

Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, University of Oregon - $5,800, Eugene - Club de Arte para Mamás, a key component of the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art's Latino Engagement Plan, offers free art workshops and childcare for Latina mothers. Addressing a sense of isolation among Latina mothers revealed in a survey conducted by the Museum in 2013, the project combines adult socializing with creative expression and aims to make the museum a "second home" for Latina families. Spanish-speaking artists will lead studio art sessions while participants' preschoolers enjoy separate art activities.

Lane Arts Council, $7,000, Eugene - The Lane Arts Council's Fiesta Cultural is a countywide initiative to celebrate Latino arts and culture, celebrating the many Latino artists in Lane County; and to increase opportunities for integration of Latino individuals into the broader community. The project outcomes will be accomplished through Latino focused music and art events during four Art Walks in Lane County during September 2015. Support will be used for artist fees, marketing and program coordination.

Living Stages, $6,000, Portland - Streets to Stages, a partnership with JOIN - an organization serving individuals in transitional housing - will offer three 12-week theatre and play development programs for individuals facing homelessness. The project will culminate in an interactive forum theatre presentation for communities at three transitional housing sites, and one presentation for the general public. Funding will support program coordination, artist stipends and participant support.

Literary Arts, $7,000, Portland - The Oregon Book Awards Author Tour creates community around literature by connecting small groups of people with our state's most accomplished writers. Funding from Arts Build Communities will support tour events, including free readings, writing workshops, school visits and panel discussions. The project engages librarians, bookstore owners, schools, publishers, literary organizations, and writing groups across the state and beyond to connect and inspire Oregon's readers and writers.

Miracle Theatre Group, $6,000, Portland - Milagro will bring a bilingual arts residency to Umatilla-Morrow County in collaboration with the Morrow County School District, the Desert Arts Council and the Hermiston Hispanic Advisory Committee. The three-day Journeys Residency with conclude with a public performance of Milagro's touring production, "Searching for Atzlán" at Hermiston High School.

My Voice Music, $7,000, Portland - My Voice Music's Artist Mentorship Program was designed to give youth the chance to study music year-round, led by professional musicians, in small groups outside of social service settings. This project will develop the program with more emphasis on moving students into Youth Leadership roles both with younger students and through service opportunities in the wider community, including music sessions with high-need adults.

Northwest Documentary, $5,800, Portland - Using its expertise in digital storytelling, NW Documentary will create a custom video for The Dougy Center--a nonprofit that provides support for children and their families who have recently lost a loved one. The video will enhance the Dougy Center's ability to effectively articulate its mission to the Portland community, thereby attracting new funders, volunteers, advocates and most importantly the families in need of their services. Funds will support production costs.

Obo Addy Legacy Project, $7,000, Portland - This project seeks to establish a new way of teaching through music with the intention of breaking down racism and empowering youth to look at the world with knowledge and understanding. The Obo Addy Legacy Project will bring "DRUM Language"- a replicable, integrated arts curriculum connecting African traditions to the roots of popular forms of youth expression to three Youth Correction facilities run by the Oregon Youth Authority.

One World Chorus, $5,580, Lake Oswego - One World Chorus is partnering with Portland's King School and the Oregon Trail Academy in Boring to bring a new collaborative chorus program to both schools. Third through fifth grade students at each site will be taught the same songs from a broad range of musical genres for 16 consecutive weeks. Between January and May of 2015, students will share musical ideas via Skype, email and video. The culminating performance will be in May, at Oregon Trail, where both groups will perform together for the community.

Oregon Shakespeare Festival, $7,000, Ashland - The Oregon Shakespeare Festival's partnership with the Oregon Child Development Center/Migrant Head Start in Ashland provides free classes and workshops in Spanish about theatre. The programs are for parents and teachers and are taught by the festival's bilingual teaching artists. Funding will pay for bus transportation, Spanish open-captioned plays, English/Spanish tours, and pre- and post-show discussions and gatherings with actors and artistic staff.

Oregon Writing Project, $7,000, Portland - SlamBoo will unite students from rural, urban and suburban Oregon to collaborate and compete as slam poets. Teachers and aspiring high school slam poets will provide instruction at six geographically and culturally diverse middle schools. Participants from each school will gather for evening events in order to collaborate, compete and share a common meal. SlamBoo will facilitate positive interactions between students from diverse geographic, racial and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Philomath Downtown Association, $3,500, Corvallis - The Public Arts Council will construct and print a series of 15 street banners, designed by a Philomath artist, to celebrate the history and education focus of the Philomath community. Local citizens and youth will develop requests for proposals from local artists; the banners will be produced as public art.

Portland Classical Chinese Garden dba Lan Su Chinese Garden, $4,475, Portland - The project will expand arts activities during the second annual Mid-Autumn Festival and attract a larger audience for this significant Chinese holiday. Funding will be used for dance, music, storytelling and puppet performances; hands-on family art-making projects; and marketing to promote the Mid-Autumn Festival as one of Chinatown's key family cultural events.

Robert Farrell High School, $5,600, Salem - Art Workshops at Hillcrest Youth Correctional Facility will bring families and incarcerated youth together in monthly art workshops. The workshops in painting and mosaics will create rainforest banners and pebble mosaics. Students from Oregon State University's Inside Out sociology class and the community will participate. Funding will be used for artist fees, materials for painting, printmaking, mosaics, sculpture, concrete casting and to print a booklet of the process.

Salem Art Association, $7,000, Salem - Project Space will provide 50 local artists with a place to collaborate, present new work and engage with the community as they bring contemporary art to an unoccupied but highly visible temporary venue in Salem's City Center. Using the arts as a creative place maker, community members will engage in dialogue with artists during the art-making process and attend exhibits featuring new art. Grant funds will assist with artist payments, public events and project administration.

Sisters Folk Festival Inc., $4,050, Sisters - APAOS was started by Sisters Folk Festival in 2011 with the Sisters School District and Family Access Network to address the need for arts-related tuition for low-income youth, K-12. Program expansion will allow more at-risk youth to achieve social and academic benefits that come from long-term and specialized arts and music instruction. Grant funds will cover tuition, materials and instrument repair for programs and private instruction for up to 50 additional students.

The Skanner Foundation, $10,000, Portland - The Vanport Multimedia Project workshops in North Portland taught by professional artists will train individuals to record the oral histories of Vanport flood survivors. The recorded histories will be used to create video, audio, photo essays, theatre and poetry works disseminated electronically and presented in three venues during fall 2015 with post presentation discussion. Up to 400 community members will attend the presentation events. Funding will be applied to artistic trainer's fees.

The Tillicum Foundation, $6,500, Astoria - The 19th annual FisherPoets Gathering (Astoria, Ore.) will bring together commercial fishermen and women to perform their poetry, prose and song in Astoria venues. Rooted in traditional forms, these creative performances highlight the significance of Oregon's fisheries. The gathering demonstrates the connections between Oregon's maritime culture, restaurants and food traditions, and the regional economy.

Well Arts, $3,000, Portland - The Well Arts Voices of Military Sexual Assault Project is a partnership between Well Arts, Returning Veterans Project and Wise Counsel and Comfort. The partnership will lead two playwriting workshops (one for women, one for men) for veterans who were sexually assaulted during service in the military. The project will pair each veteran with a professional actor who will perform the stories written by the veterans for the public in six performances.

Write Around Portland, $7,000, Portland - Write Around Portland holds creative writing workshops for the most socially isolated and least financially secure Oregonians. In spring 2015, Write Around Portland will hold 15 ten-week creative writing workshops in partnership with social service agencies. 150 adults and young people will experience the power of the literary arts to connect, heal and transform. These workshops will culminate in the publication of writers' work and in readings held for the broader community.


? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?
The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of the Oregon Business Development Department in 1993 in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission's expertise in grant-making, arts and cultural information and community cultural development.
The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon legislature, federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts and funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust.
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Attached Media Files: Participants in Youth Arts for Change perform an original play titled IMHO (In My Humble Opinion). Youth Arts for Change, a program of the Clackamas County Arts Alliance, collaborates with community partners to engage underserved youth through the arts.

PORTLAND, Ore. - The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet via teleconference on Thursday, Jan. 29 at 1 p.m.

A meeting agenda is available here: http://bit.ly/1xT1JUT

The public may listen to the meeting in person at DOGAMI's Portland offices, 800 NE Oregon St., Ste 965.

The DOGAMI Governing Board sets policy and oversees general operations, and adopts a strategic plan every six years to guide DOGAMI's mission and objectives. The Board meets quarterly at sites around the state. As active members of their communities, board members provide an important connection between Oregonians and DOGAMI's mission of providing earth science information and regulation to make Oregon safe and prosperous.

Contact: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tom Gauntt, Pacific Power, Jan. 20, 2015
503-813-7291
Tom.Gauntt@pacificorp.com
Follow: @TomGauntt1

Solar in NW communities receive $1.8 million boost from Pacific Power Blue Sky customers
Popular renewable energy program in ninth year of sustainable investment

PORTLAND, Ore.--Solar projects will soon help reduce energy costs for buildings in 10 communities across the Northwest, thanks in part to funding from Pacific Power customers who voluntarily participate in the Blue Sky renewable energy program.

Together, the solar projects represent up to $1.8 million new renewable energy investment in 2015, bringing more than 2 megawatts of new renewable energy capacity online. One megawatt of solar serves the average annual energy needs of 200 households. Since 2006, Blue Sky customers have voluntarily funded more than 75 facilities that produce in excess of 6.5 megawatts of emission-free renewable energy, demonstrating the viability of renewable energy in their communities with nearly $8 million in investment during that time.

"Our Blue Sky customers put their dollars to work in their communities," said Pat Reiten, president and CEO of Pacific Power. "Not only will these facilities supply renewable energy, but they are helping increase the visibility and adoption of renewable technology. We are proud to be part of this important partnership with communities and our Blue Sky customers."

"The Blue Sky program which helps fund these projects, has one of the highest voluntary customer participation rates you'll find nationwide," said Blaine Andreasen, vice president of customer service, Pacific Power. "One of the reasons the Blue Sky program is so popular is that customers can choose to participate and then can see what they are getting. In addition to supporting the renewable energy industry and taking personal action, they are helping fund on-the-ground, working renewable projects in their own communities."

Projects receiving funding in 2015 range from arrays connected to Portland's glittering convention center to affordable housing in Prineville to a nursery dedicated to helping the developmentally disabled in Grants Pass.
Oregon Convention Center
Portland, Ore.
Solar, 1.1 megawatt
$500,000
The Oregon Convention Center hosts an estimated 500,000 local, national, and international visitors per year. The building was retrofitted to meet Platinum LEED certification standards (the first existing building in the U.S. to do so). The planned roof-top solar array will be located on the north side of the center's large flat roof.

Tamastslikt Cultural Institute
Pendleton, Ore.
Solar, 200 kilowatt
$350,000
The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation plan to install a solar array at its Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, a museum and event center that receives 20,000 visitors annually. The solar production information will be fed into the existing wind turbine monitoring kiosk located near the main entrance and on the center's website, providing classes and training on renewable energy to the tribal members and local schools. Together, the two Blue Sky funded projects will supply 25 percent of the center's power needs.
Central Oregon Community College - Redmond Campus
Redmond, Ore.
Solar, 504 kilowatt
$320,000
Central Oregon Community College plans to install a ground-mounted array near the new Technology Education Center that will be integrated into the curriculum. Guided tours will be available for schools and community groups wanting to learn more about solar.
Rogue Valley International Airport
Medford, Ore.
Solar, 36 kilowatt
$261,137
This project is an expansion of a previously-funded Blue Sky project, nearly doubling the existing solar capacity. The new array will be mounted on a canopy adjacent to three existing solar canopy structures located along the walkway between the parking lot and the main entrance.
Port of Columbia - Blue Mountain Station Artisan Food Center
Dayton, Wash.
Solar, 35.8 kilowatts
$81,778
In 2013, the Port of Columbia developed the Blue Mountain Station Artisan Food Center, an eco-food processing park dedicated to the recruitment and marketing of artisan food processors. The building was constructed to LEED silver certification standards and included a solar array in the design. The array will reduce operating costs for the government-owned Blue Mountain Station, saving taxpayer dollars and allowing the station to continue supporting local artisan food processors.
Perry Technical Institute - Plath Hall
Yakima, Wash.
Solar, 24.9 kilowatt
$73,977
Perry Technical Institute is a non-profit technical school that trains students for work in a rapidly evolving technological world. The solar array will be installed by the school's instructors, who are licensed and bonded electricians, together with students. The project will provide students with hands-on experience in the solar installation and will assist in building skills to directly grow the solar industry in the region.
Bend Habitat Restore
Bend, Ore.
Solar, 56.2 kilowatt
$59, 814
Bend Area Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing services for low-income families, will install a solar array that will reduce operating costs and allow the organization to expand its services. Utility bill savings will be applied directly to the organization's low-income home construction and repair projects and more solar installations for these homes.
Pacific Crest Affordable Housing - Ironhorse Lodge
Prineville, Ore.
Solar, 67.2 kilowatt
$55,080
The solar project will be installed on two newly-constructed carport structures designed specifically to host the solar panels. The Lodge is located close to an elementary school and students will be able to become familiar with the facility. Energy production data will be available online for students and the general public to monitor.
Greenleaf Industries
Grants Pass, Ore.
Solar, 17 kilowatt
$45,964
Greenleaf Industries is a private non-profit organization established in 1981 that provides long-term employment for the developmentally disabled in a horticultural setting. Greenleaf has become the largest grower of bedding plants and vegetables and largest horticultural training center in the region. The project will reduce Greenleaf's operating costs and allow the organization to more cost-effectively provide employment and training opportunities for the developmentally disabled in the community.
Bend First United Methodist Church
Bend, Ore.
Solar, 13.8 kilowatt
$22,300
Bend First United Methodist Church opens up its doors to nearly 20 community groups throughout the year. The goal of their solar project is to reduce operating costs while inspiring those who visit the church to see solar energy in action, learn about installing panels at their homes and become ambassadors for renewable energy.
Most projects are on schedule to be completed in 2015. The upcoming application period for the 2015 round of Blue Sky community project awards will be announced in the spring.

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About Blue Sky
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has ranked Blue Sky fifth or better in the nation for the 11th consecutive year in the number of customers buying renewable power. The Blue Sky Block, Usage and Habitat products are Green-e Energy certified; About 55,000 Pacific Power customers currently participate in the Blue Sky program across Oregon, Washington and California. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net/bluesky.

About Pacific Power
Pacific Power provides electric service to more than 730,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company works to meet growing energy demand while protecting and enhancing the environment. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with almost 1.8 million customers in six western states Information about Pacific Power is available on the company's website, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube pages, which can be accessed via pacificpower.net.

(Salem) -- Employers across Oregon are invited to promote workplace safety and health with training, award recognition events, or other creative activities during Safety Break for Oregon on Wednesday, May 13, 2015.

Oregon OSHA coordinates the one-day event, designed to raise awareness and promote the value of safety and health in preventing on-the-job injuries and illnesses. The event is voluntary for employers and businesses can determine what activities are beneficial to their workforce.

"Like any safety stand down, Safety Break by itself cannot promise to magically make an employer's health and safety program real or more effective," said Michael Wood, Oregon OSHA administrator. "But as part of a genuine effort to address workplace hazards, this event provides an opportunity to sharpen the focus, and to remind both workers and their employers that it requires continued focus and diligence to create a workplace free from the hazards that can cause serious injury, illness, or even death."

Safety Break encourages employees and management to work together on identifying safety and health concerns. The result of this cooperation can lead to fewer injuries and reduced workers' compensation costs for employers.

Companies planning to participate will be entered to win one of three $100 pizza luncheons when they sign up online by Friday, May 8. The prizes will be given to participating companies as part of a random drawing. The Oregon SHARP Alliance is sponsoring the contest.

For more information, ideas on how to host an event, or to download graphics, go the Safety Break for Oregon website at http://www.orosha.org/subjects/safetybreak.html.

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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 www.orosha.org or find us at www.facebook.com/oregonosha.

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, go to www.dcbs.oregon.gov. Follow DCBS on Twitter: http://twitter.com/OregonDCBS. Receive consumer help and information on insurance, mortgages, investments, workplace safety, and more.


Attached Media Files: Safety Break logo

Brain Health Important to 93% of Americans, But Few Know the 5 Ways to Help Maintain or Improve It
New AARP Survey Highlights Need for Holistic Approach to Staying Sharp

WASHINGTON DC--AARP Staying Sharp, an AARP membership option that focuses on a holistic approach to brain health, announced today new survey results indicating adults know the importance of brain health but are not as aware of the recommended holistic approach to improve it. All respondents believe it is important to improve or maintain brain health - with 93% noting it is very or extremely important. When asked how specifically to maintain a healthy brain, a startling low 18% cited socializing with friends or family, 34% cited low stress, 44% cited physical exercise and only half (50%) of survey respondents cited brain games, which is one way to have fun while exercising your brain. AARP Staying Sharp is working to educate members about how a well-rounded healthy living approach can help improve overall brain health.

"We have found that brain health is not just a key concern for our members, but a concern for all Americans," said AARP Vice President of Membership Lynn Mento. "AARP Staying Sharp isn't just about brain exercises, but about promoting healthier living as a holistic way to support brain health, by keeping physically fit, learning more by challenging your brain, managing your stress, eating right, and connecting with others."

The Five Ways to Support Brain Health

AARP Staying Sharp recognizes that many people are proactively working to keep their minds sharp so that they can continue to live active, fulfilling and independent lives. AARP's analysis of current research suggests that people interested in maintaining and improving their brain health should focus on five areas:

* Keeping Fit: Studies show that even small amounts of regular exercise like walking can positively impact brain health.

* Learning More: Everything from learning a new language or skill to participating in online exercises designed to challenge and test the brain.

* Managing Stress: Several studies indicate sleep and stress management improve brain health.

* Eating Right: Scientific research shows that certain elements in food - from omega-3 fatty acids to vitamin E - can positively impact brain health.

* Being Social: Research shows that staying socially connected to other people supports a healthy brain.

Survey Shows Opportunity for Brain Health Education

The survey conducted by AARP and W5 asked 1,200 Americans (age 34 to 75) about healthy living and brain health. While respondents showed some awareness of the five ways to support brain health, there was room to educate many on how to help improve or maintain brain health.

* Keeping Fit: Only 44% noted physical exercise as a key factor to help maintain a healthy brain.

* Learning More: While 50% noted brain games can help maintain brain health, only 9% reported taking classes, 6% said watching educational programs and 5% indicated watching the news.

* Managing Stress: While 68% chose getting adequate sleep or rest to help maintain brain health, only 38% identified low stress as a factor (34%).

* Eating Right: For just 58% a healthy diet is considered key to maintaining brain health.

* Being Social: Only 18% noted being social as a key factor to help maintain or improve brain health, the least likely to be noted as a way to help your brain.

AARP understands that people 50+ are active, engaged, and focused on living life to the fullest. AARP is committed to helping members discover "Real Possibilities" in life, by delivering membership options that have evolved to reflect where members are in life today. The AARP Staying Sharp membership costs $21 a year and provides people with information, tools and resources, and tangible steps to take every day to foster a healthy, holistic lifestyle in support of brain health. Along with all the benefits of traditional membership, Staying Sharp provides access to experts, tools, and resources, focused on maintaining brain health, including:

* Staying Sharp Challenge from Brain HQ: Access to online brain training exercises selected for Staying Sharp members designed to improve cognitive ability, navigation skills, people skills, memory and more.

* Staying Sharp eNewsletter Subscription: Access to up-to-date research and insights around brain health.

* Video Insights Series: Short, web-based video series with science-based tips and suggestions on physical exercise, online and offline activities, food and approaches to support brain health in a holistic way.

To learn more about the brain health Staying Sharp research, visit http://www.aarp.org/StayingSharpStudy. For more information about the AARP Staying Sharp membership, visit http://www.aarp.org/NewStaySharp.
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About AARP
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of more than 37 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse. We advocate for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services. A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world's largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Español, a Spanish-language website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity of AARP that is working to win back opportunity for struggling Americans 50+ by being a force for change on the most serious issues they face today: housing, hunger, income and isolation. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at www.aarp.org.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/4847/81191/Staying_Sharp.jpg

This past summer, after 25 years of service, the Marine Board's titling and registration system reached the end of its useful life and was retired. The Marine Board made the transition to a web based titling and registration system that has more functionality, more security and brings more online options for boaters. The new registration system combines the old mainframe data with boater education, AIS permits and the Outfitter/Guide/Charter databases into one, integrated system. The customer interface, "RegLine," allows boaters to login and manage their contact information, as well as apply for boat title and registration and renew or order replacement documents, 24/7. The new system allows boaters to order replacement boater education cards, purchase AIS permit(s) for paddlecraft, and coming next year, Outfitters, Guides and charters will be able to apply online.

The transition to the new system last summer created backlogs for boaters who were transferring titles and registering during the already busy summer months. As a result of extensive transactions sent through the mail, particularly boats that have not been registered recently or those coming from out-of-state, staff are entering the data into the new system manually. Staff and boaters have also had to work through the technical difficulties of a new system. This led to an increased backlog of boat transactions, which most boaters are not accustomed to experiencing from the agency, which has the reputation of having a fast turn-around time. The patience and understanding of boaters has been very much appreciated.

For quick turn-around on boat registration renewals, boaters are encouraged to renew online. Online boat registration renewals are immediately processed when payment is approved and printed the same or next day for mailing. Boaters should be aware that the new online interface has additional safety measures built in that can be confusing, so it is important to read and follow the directions closely.

"The new system is up and running, but we are still working with our contractor to improve functionality while our staff are becoming more proficient with the user interfaces," says Janess Eilers, Title and Registration Manager for the Marine Board. "Over the past few months we have brought on temporary staff and had registration specialists work overtime to catch up the on the backlog, so while we are happy with the progress, we will continue to have some inconvenience for those who are accustomed to faster service," Eilers adds.

The Marine Board, working with marine law enforcement, will honor any temporary permits that expired until the agency is caught up with transaction backlog.
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Attached Media Files: RegLine Registration Decal Graphic

Portland, OR - The Oregon Black Pioneers have partnered with the Oregon Historical Society to present A Community on the Move, a new exhibition opening Saturday, February 1 at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland (1200 SW Park Avenue, 97205).

This groundbreaking exhibition explains how the WWII shipyards, migration from the South, the Vanport flood, and urban renewal projects impacted Portland's black families and businesses. Interactive displays, associated public programs, and educational tours have been designed to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds and reveal the courage and persistence of black families who lived during this tumultuous era.

Designed in partnership with Alchemy of Design, this original exhibition draws on personal photographs, historic artifacts, and hands on experiences to illuminate Portland's vibrant black community, which thrived despite a larger cultural and legal context of discrimination and displacement. As present-day gentrification in Portland impacts historically black neighborhoods, the importance of acknowledging and understanding this little-known history is critical to our collective future. With this in mind, A Community on the Move has been designed so that visitors can connect and compare past conditions to our modern realities.

Throughout the exhibition's run, community members will be invited to participate in special conversations with leaders and elders from Portland's African American community. These community conversations will take place throughout Portland, and a full list of these programs as well as other associated events can be found at www.oregonblackpioneers.org and www.ohs.org.

A Community on the Move will be on display from February 1 through June 28, 2015. Oregon Historical Society museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and Noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. General admission is $11, and discounts are available for students, seniors, and youth. Admission is free every day to residents of Multnomah County and members of the Oregon Historical Society.

This exhibition made possible by the generous support of numerous local grantors, sponsors, and friends.


Attached Media Files: Vanport Floating Housing, courtesy Thomas Robinson , 10th Annual Les Femmes Debutante Ball, courtesy The Oregonian , Ninie Mae Locke, courtesy City of Portland Archives , 1949 Bethel AME Easter Sunday, courtesy Portland State University

At about 2:40 a.m., the McMinnville Police Department and the Marion County Sheriff's Office began an investigation into an alleged kidnapping that occurred in Marion County and ended in McMinnville. The victim has made claims that she was taken against her will and transported to McMinnville where she was made to hand over an undisclosed amount of cash.

After hours of interviews with the victim and a review of the case, the Marion County Sheriff's Office has not been able to substantiate the claims made by the victim. The investigation is ongoing but as of this point the Sheriff's Office is not seeking the public or media's help in locating the additional people involved in last night's incident.

Because of the doubts brought forth by the investigators no suspect information is being released by the Sheriff's Office, at this time. If information comes forward to substantiate this investigation the Sheriff's Office will release any remaining details regarding this investigation.

American Red Cross disaster action team volunteers early this morning responded to a disaster in the 500 block of 39th Street, Springfield, OR. This single-family fire affected two adults. Red Cross provided help with lodging, food, clothing, shoes, seasonal garments, comfort kits, and information about health and mental health services.

A house fire was reported at 4:20am at 510 39Th St. Springfield, OR. Eugene Springfield fire department crews arrived 5 minutes later to find smoke and fire coming from the back of a single family residence. The two adult occupants were both out of the structure upon firefighters arrival. One adult male was evaluated on scene by medics and transported to McKenzie/Willamette hospital for smoke inhalation. Firefighters had the fire under control in 21 minutes. There was extensive smoke and fire damage throughout the house. Preliminary damages are estimated to be $45,000. The fire cause appears to be accidental, fire investigators are still on scene. A total of 19 firefighters were on scene.

Lebanon Police Department


Nature of Crime or Event: Armed Robbery
Date / Time Occurred: January 18th, 2015 @ 10:24 AM
Occurred Location: Peppers Deli - 2752 S Santiam Hwy, Lebanon, OR

On January 18th, 2015 at approximately 10:24 AM, a male entered Peppers Deli in Lebanon, displayed a handgun, and demanded money. The suspect left Peppers Deli on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash. No one was injured during the robbery.

The suspect is described as a white male adult, short, wearing a white jacket, a wool hat with ear covers, bandana, and a hoodie.

No one is currently in custody and the case is actively being investigated at this time.

If you have any information you are asked to contact Detective McCubbins at 541-451-1751 ext. 4346.

American Red Cross Disaster Action Team volunteers responded to a single-family fire at 4:03 p.m. on the 42000 block of Fir Grove Lane in Lebanon.
The fire affected one adult. Red Cross provided food, clothing, seasonal garments, a comfort kit and information about health services.

Two vehicles collided head-on with each other at about 2:30 pm this afternoon on Liberty Rd S near Bunker Hill Rd S.

Marion County Sheriff's Deputies and Salem Fire Department responded to the scene. They arrived to find the two vehicles involved, one of which is a Green 1993 Ford Explorer, driven by Michael Lowe, 39, of South Salem and a Black 2013 Hyundai Elantra, driven by Randy Harrison, 58, also of South Salem.

Lowe was extricated from his vehicle by fire personnel. Both Lowe and Harrison were injured in the crash and transported by ambulance to Salem hospital where they are in critical condition. The extent of their injuries is not known. Consistent with HIPAA regulations, we will not release further information about their medical condition without their approval.

No other occupants were believed to be involved in either vehicle.

Deputies Mark Ferron and Casey Burhnam with the Sheriff's Office CRASH team also assisted. The cause of the crash remains under investigation at this time. Alcohol is not believed to be a factor in this incident. Liberty Rd S at Bunker Hill Rd S is open to traffic at this time.

We are asking anyone with information about this crash or moments prior to the crash to please call in and ask to speak with Deputies Mark Ferron and or Casey Burhnam. Please call the Marion County Sheriff's Office at (503) 588-5032.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1294/81163/Bunker_Hill_CRASH

Update 2:

Oregon State Troopers are continuing their investigation into Saturday's early morning crash. Further consolidation of information among Troopers reveals that approximately 26 vehicles or vehicle combinations were directly involved in a crash. The estimate of total vehicles at the scene either involved in a crash or blocked between crashes is between 50 to 70 vehicles.

12 patients were treated for injuries at the St. Alphonsus Hospital in Baker City - 6 arrived by ambulance and 6 arrived by third party.

After their arrival to St. Alphonsus in Baker city, 1 patient was transferred to OHSU in Portland with serious injuries, 1 patient was transferred to St. Alphonsus in Boise, ID with serious injuries and 2 patients were transferred to the Grande Ronde Hospital in La Grande for treatment.

Update 1:

The Hazmat Team declared no leaks in loads and ODOT and OSP continue to clear scene. The Interstate 84 eastbound road closures are still in effect until the remaining vehicles are removed and westbound lanes are currently open.

The highway surface was covered with ice at the time of the collision and driving conditions were very slick. OSP is reminding all drivers that winter driving conditions can be very treacherous and drivers should slow down and use extreme caution when traveling on the highways.


PRELIMINARY INFORMATION:

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into a multi vehicle crash on Interstate 84 near Baker City. All eastbound lanes of Interstate 84 are blocked with several crashed vehicles. ODOT and emergency responders are on scene.

Early information indicates that on January 17, at approximately 4:54 A.M., estimated 20 vehicles, traveling eastbound onto black ice, collided and resulted in blocking all eastbound traffic with approximately 50 vehicles blocked within the crash scene. Two vehicles were transporting hazardous materials and an assessment is being conducted at this time. 4 occupants were transported with minor to serious injuries.

Traffic updates are on ODOT's website TripCheck.com.


Attached Media Files: Crash Photo 1 , Crash Photo 4 , Crash Photo 3 , Crash Photo 2

2:45 p.m. Update - New photos attached to this release. Message is same one sent at 2:13 p.m.
I-84 remains closed Westbound in Ontario at Exit 371 and Eastbound at Exit 304 in Baker City, Exit 265 in La Grande, and Exit 216 east of Pendleton due to multi-vehicle crash on Eastbound Freeway near MP 318, east of Baker City that occurred early this morning. Hazmat response crews have now given the OK to begin moving backed up Westbound traffic past the area. Once backed up Westbound traffic is cleared, the Westbound freeway will remain closed for 1-2 hours to facilitate clearing non-disabled trucks from the Eastbound freeway. Once all non-disabled vehicles are cleared from Eastbound lanes, the Westbound freeway will be open for through traffic. Clearing disabled trucks from Eastbound freeway is expected to continue for several hours. The Eastbound freeway is not expected to open to through traffic until later tonight. Safety is the primary concern and ODOT, OSP and emergency response crews are working to open the freeway as soon as possible. Watch for fog, spots of ice and winter conditions on eastern Oregon highways. For up to minute road conditions, always check TripCheck.com or call 511 / 800-977-6368. Outside of Oregon, call 503-588-2941.


Attached Media Files: I84 truck crash, MP 318, eastbound, 1/17/2015 , I84 truck crash, MP 318 Eastbound,1/17/2015 , 2015-01/1204/81150/I84_MP_318_EB_Truck_crash_05__011715.jpg , 2015-01/1204/81150/I84_MP_318_EB_Truck_crash_04__011715.jpg , 2015-01/1204/81150/I84_MP_318_EB_Truck_crash_03__OSP_011715.jpg

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports that today at noon his Deputies, along with the Lebanon Police Department, responded to a report of a single vehicle crash on Rock Hill Road near Stoltz Hill Road, south of Lebanon.

The involved vehicle, a 2004 white Chevy Malibu, was westbound on Rock Hill Road when it failed to negotiate a corner. The vehicle left the road, collided with a road sign and came to rest on its side. Witnesses reported that the single male occupant, who was reported to be bleeding from the head, fled on foot. Several large knives were found inside the vehicle.

LCSO Deputies, with assistance from a US Forest Service Law Enforcement K9, set up a perimeter and began searching for the injured driver. After an exhaustive search, the driver was located in a wooded area near the southeast corner of Rock Hill Road. The driver had burrowed into berry briars in an effort to evade law enforcement officers.

When approached by a Deputy Sheriff, the driver, later identified as 32-year-old Jack Eldon Thompson of Lebanon, refused to obey numerous commands to show his hands and was subsequently tazed.

Thompson was taken into custody and transported to Lebanon Community Hospital for treatment of minor injuries resulting from the crash. Thompson was later transported and lodged at the Linn County Jail on charges of Failure to Perform Duties of a Driver (Hit and Run), Criminal Trespass and an unrelated Probation Violation.

There were no injuries suffered by law enforcement personnel.

Alcohol does not appear to be a factor in the crash.

The crash remains under investigation.
??NLG


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/2993/81146/Thompson.PNG , 2015-01/2993/81146/061.JPG

The Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) honored past Director Michael Francke today with the dedication of a conference room at DOC headquarters - the Dome Building in Salem.

In May 1987, Francke was appointed to the position of DOC Director by Oregon's Governor. He was tasked with addressing issues within Oregon's prison system, much as he had done as Director of the New Mexico DOC before coming to Oregon.

Francke was a visionary who cared deeply about improving the system and making Oregon a better place. He did not get to finish his work, as he was murdered outside DOC headquarters on January 17, 1989.

Mr. Francke has been honored with the newly dedicated Michael Francke Conference Room, which has been renovated with fresh paint, new fixtures, and improved infrastructure. There is a shadow box frame in the northeast corner of the room encasing memorabilia related to Francke's time with Oregon DOC. A bench and memorial monument have been placed outside the entrance to the Dome Building. Oregon Corrections Enterprises - the prison industries arm of DOC - designed and manufactured the beautiful memorial pieces, including the bronze plaque recognizing Francke's end of watch. Each piece of stainless steel and copper was hand formed and heated to create the varying colors. Downtown at the state Capitol, a Japanese umbrella pine tree has been planted along with a commemorative plaque in Francke's memory.

DOC employs 4,600 staff members at 14 institutions, two community corrections offices, and several centralized support facilities throughout the state. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of over 14,500 adults sentenced to more than 12 months of incarceration, and direct or indirect supervision of 31,000 offenders on felony supervision in the community. DOC is recognized nationally among correctional agencies for providing adults in custody with the cognitive, education, and job skills needed to become productive citizens when they transition back to their communities.

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Attached Media Files: Patrick Francke Remarks , Memorabilia hanging inside the Michael Francke Conference Room , Memorial monument outside DOC's Dome Building

The Government Information and Library Services Advisory Council will meet on January 22, 2015 at the Oregon State Library in Room 103 at 10:00 p.m.

The Government Information and Library Services Advisory Council is established in the bylaws of the Oregon State Library Board of Trustees to advise the staff of the Government Information and Library Services Program of the Oregon State Library. The Council will provide insight, consultation, and advice on strategies for better serving the information and research needs of Oregon state government agencies. The Council will also assist Government Information and Library Services staff in creating effective strategies and programs to inform state employees about services and to train state employees in the use of these services.

The following topics will be discussed at the meeting:

Update from the State Librarian
Advisory Council membership status

New online catalog

Database trials

Aligning outreach activities to Oregon's 10-Year Plan

Questions to the Council

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SALEM,Ore., (1/16/2015) - A new trend has started in Oregon. Conservation groups are buying up private lands and turning them over to the state to become public lands. Recently, Western Rivers Conservancy bought the Rattray Ranch in Gilliam County and announced its plans to sell a good portion of the land to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.

Keith Nantz, incoming chair of the Young Cattlemen's Committee, is concerned about the high amount of private lands turnover. He said he fears the lands won't be properly taken care of as "public agencies are already over extended and can't take care of what they already have." He believes that Western Rivers and others haven't considered all the factors. "I don't have any doubts the conservancy has good intentions, but I think there needs to be more of a team effort," Nantz said.

Others have also voiced a concern that the general Oregon population might not understand the impact of private lands turnover. Frank O'Leary, Executive Director for Oregon Rangeland Trust, said, "Unfortunately many members of our urban communities cannot delineate between the benefit provided by private ownership and how it stimulates the economy versus the land that is held in public use that can be a strain to the public entity that maintains those properties."

Nantz also voiced a concern for tax revenue, as public lands are not taxed while private lands are. Ken Brooks, an Oregon Cattlemen's Association member from Grant County, has noticed this alarming trend in his own area. In counties like Gilliam and Grant, taxes are an important source of funding for schools and public safety services. "Losing 10,000 acres doesn't change the state budget, but it raises the property tax land owners have to pay to meet that budget," Brooks said.

If this trend continues, it could be detrimental to Oregon's agricultural production. Ken Brooks said, "sooner or later if we continue with the mindset of purchasing private land and protecting it as public land, the reality of the situation is that eventually we will be relying on foreign countries for our beef."

The Oregon Cattlemen's Association was founded in 1913 and works to promote environmentally and socially sound industry practices, improve and strengthen the economics of the industry, and protect its industry communities and private property rights.

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The Northwest and Southwest Oregon Regional Forest Practice Committees will meet Thursday, January 22, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Weyerhaeuser office, 785 North 42nd St., in Springfield. The meeting is open to the public and a public comment period has been scheduled.

Agenda items include:
- A discussion on prescription development: How to meet the Protecting Cold Water criterion to the maximum extent practicable.
- Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) staff will review data requests submitted by the committees' members.
- Members will discuss field trip recommendations.
- ODF staff will provide an update on bald eagle rulemaking.

Regional Forest Practice Committees are panels of citizens - mandated under Oregon law - that advise the Oregon Board of Forestry on current forestry issues and forest management approaches. Three Regional Forest Practice Committees, serving the Northwest, Southwest and Eastern regions of the state, were created by the 1971 Oregon Forest Practices Act. Under Oregon law, a majority of Regional Forest Practice Committees members must be private forest landowners and logging or forest operations companies.

Anyone may attend the meeting. The meeting is accessible to persons with disabilities. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. For questions about accessibility or special accommodations please call 503-945-7427.

Oregon's forests are among one of the state's most valued resources, providing a balanced mix of environmental, economic and social benefits.

Additional information about ODF's Regional Forest Practice Committees is available on the Oregon Department of Forestry's web site: www.oregon.gov/ODF/pages/board/rfpc/rfpc.aspx

PORTLAND Ore. - Kevin Carroll, noted author, speaker and agent for social change who inspires businesses, organizations and individuals to maximize their potential and sustain more meaningful business and personal growth will deliver the keynote address at the 2015 Alliance Scholarship Luncheon.

The 2015 Alliance Scholarship Luncheon will be held Friday, March 13, at 12:00 p.m. at NW Natural.

Carroll is the founder of Kevin Carroll Katalyst/LLC and the author of three highly successful books, Rules of the Ted Rubber Ball, What's Your Rubber Ball? and The Rubber Ball at Work. As a consultant, he has helped turn creative ideas into reality for organizations such as the National Hockey League, ESPN, Nike, Starbucks (his words appeared on 17 million Grande cups), The National Basketball Association, Walt Disney Company, Mattel, Hasbro, Procter & Gamble, Discovery Channel, Capital One and many others.

After serving in the Air Force for ten years and earning his college degree, Carroll became an athletic trainer at the high school and collegiate levels in Philadelphia. His expertise in sport performance recognized by the 76ers organization and led to his job as the head athletic trainer for the Philadelphia 76ers in 1995. While at the 76ers, Nike tapped Carroll to bring his unique experiences to the sneaker giant in 1997. Although no job "officially" existed at the time, Carroll was directed to create a position at the company that would add value to the overall mission of the brand. Carroll accepted the challenge and stayed for seven years as "Katalyst" (the 'K' is for Kevin)--a creative change agent. At Nike he was instrumental in helping the company develop a deeper understanding of athletic product performance, team dynamics and interpersonal communication. Carroll left Nike in 2004 to create his own company, Kevin Carroll Katalyst/LLC, committed to elevating the power of sport and play around the world.

Carroll has dedicated his life to advancing sports and play as a vehicle for social change and success. He partners with non-governmental organizations and businesses around the world that share his vision and goals. He was honored to address the United Nations as part of the UN Year of Sports for Development and Peace in 2005. He has been an advisor for Beyond Sport, a global gathering of social innovation leaders and sports organizations, from 2009-2012 (Archbishop Desmond Tutu is the Patron of Beyond Sport). In 2013, Kevin was named by SUCCESS magazine as one of 19 "SEERS - changing the world!"

The Alliance represents 18 of Oregon's regionally accredited, nonprofit private higher education institutions. Together, Alliance colleges and universities enroll more than 35,000 students and deliver approximately 30% of all baccalaureate degrees and higher awarded in Oregon. The Alliance intersects the needs of business and industry, private nonprofit colleges and universities and the public good to create real solutions that build a more educated and skilled workforce for Oregon. For more information visit www.oaicu.org.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/4829/81113/Carroll_Kevin_PROMOPIC.TIF

Oregon State Police and the Jackson County Sheriff's Office have taken the male subject involved in this event into custody. The suspect, identified as CHARLES P. ULMER III, age 56, of Rogue River, was arrested at approximately 4:16 P.M., and charged with Assault 4- domestic violence, Strangulation, Resisting Arrest, and Criminal Mischief (x2) for damaging police equipment during his arrest.

Preliminary information indicates that last night at approximately 9:00 P.M., ULMER assaulted his girlfriend at the Valley of the Rogue State Park. This morning, the victim, name intentionally withheld, sought help from Rangers at the park who contacted OSP.

OSP responded and was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office SWAT team who was able to take ULMER into custody after he barricaded himself for several hours. At some point during the incident ULMER damaged some police equipment which resulted in the additional charges of criminal mischief.

This investigation is ongoing and any further release of information will be coordinated through the Jackson County District Attorney's office.

OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff's Department and the Oregon State Parks Department. No photographs are available for this release.

Original Release:
Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers and Jackson County Sheriff's Office personnel are on the scene of a barricaded subject in the Valley of the Rogue State Park, in Jackson County.

Preliminary information from the on-scene commander, Lieutenant Kelly Collins of the Oregon State Police Central Point Area Command, indicates that at approximately 10:04 A.M., OSP personnel were called to the park by rangers reporting a potential domestic violence incident. While troopers were in route the man reportedly entered into his travel trailer in the campground area of the park and barricaded himself alone. The woman involved in the investigation is not in danger.

Upon arrival OSP troopers made contact with the subject who remains barricaded at this moment. Troopers requested the assistance of the Jackson County Sheriff's Office and its tactical team and have secured the area and evacuated nearby occupants. According to Lieutenant Collins, the area has been isolated and secured so no public threat is present. Currently, only D, E and F loops within the parks campground area have been evacuated and the remainder of the park is open - including the rest area.

Negotiators from the Sheriff's Office tactical team are working to resolve this incident safely and appropriately. Interstate 5, which is adjacent to the area, has not been impacted by this event.

Additional information and updates will be provided when it becomes available.
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Twitter: @ORStatePolice

At 14:21, Lebanon Fire District responded to 2744 S 12 St for a house fire. The first arriving unit discovered a fire in the oven. The fire was promptly extinguished and there was no damage to the building or property. There were no injuries. Smoke detectors alerted residents and they safely evacuated. Cause of the fire was determined to be a build up of food debris in the oven. The Lebanon Fire District reminds everyone to ensure appliances are clean and in working order prior to use.

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Planned Parenthood Advocates of Oregon, which helps keep Oregon the leading state for reproductive freedom, offers a unique twist on Valentine's Day at "It's Not Me, It's You: Stories from the Dark Side of Dating," on Friday, February 6th in Eugene.

Glamazon drag star Karress Ann Slaughter will host a festive evening in which some of Eugene's sharpest storytellers have agreed to share hilarious memories about their worst dates ever. Storytellers include:

* Jennifer Sparklebritches, humorist
* Camilla Mortensen, journalist/editor/college instructor
* Max Brockmann, standup comic
* Aliya Khan, political activist/blogger (Everyday Feminism)
* Jason Eifler, standup comic
* Helen Shepard, standup comic/sexologist

The 4th annual "It's Not Me, It's You: Stories from the Dark Side of Dating" will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. at Cozmic Pizza, 199 W Eighth St. Tickets are $15 at the door or $13 in advance from CozmicPizza.com and at the Cozmic Pizza box office.


Attached Media Files: Clockwise from top left: Jennifer Sparklebritches, Karress Ann Slaughter, Jason Eifler, Aliya Khan, Helen Shepard, Camilla Mortensen and Max Brockmann

Late last night the Marion County Sheriff's Office received information regarding a possible school threat involving two juveniles, in the threat no specific targets, schools or time frames were mentioned.

As a precaution one of the participants in the conversation, a Houck Middle School student has been removed from school while investigators determine the validity of the threat. The second juvenile and instigator of the threat does not reside in Oregon and we are working with additional law enforcement officials to locate the juvenile and determine the credibility of the threats.

In addition to the removal of the student the school district added extra security personnel and the School Resource Deputy was on campus periodically throughout the day. The Sheriff's Office wants to reiterate that no direct threat against any school has been made and these steps are only being taken as a precaution.

Unless specific evidence is located and criminal charges are brought forth against any of the actors the Sheriff's Office does not anticipate any further releases of information regarding this incident.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1294/81093/Houck.jpg

ALBANY, Ore. - The Technical Review Team Water Resources Subcommittee for the Calico Resources proposed gold mine in Malheur County is scheduled to meet by teleconference Jan. 20 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. PST.

Meeting details and agenda are available here: http://bit.ly/calicojanuary

The public and media may listen to the meeting in person at the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) Portland offices, 800 NE Oregon St., Ste. 965, or listen by phone. For call-in instructions, contact the DOGAMI offices in Albany at 541-967-2040.

The Technical Review Team (TRT) is an interdisciplinary team of state agencies that reviews the application and develops consolidated permit conditions that conform to Oregon regulations. The federal Bureau of Land Management serves on the team in an ex-officio role. The Water Resources Subcommittee focuses on water quality and water quantity issues related to the proposed project.

A new feature video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fo2tfioq5T4) featuring Pulitzer-prize winning New York Times columnist and author Nicholas Kristof debuted today on "The Promise of Oregon" website, www.promiseoregon.org.

Kristof, an Oregon native and graduate of Yamhill Carlton High School, often refers to education as "an escalator to opportunity." He expounds on that theme in the video, discussing poverty worldwide and close to home, and how an investment in education pays dividends for everyone.

"If we care about the health of our communities, there's no better way of preserving that than by investing in our schools and in our kids," he says.

He also explores his Oregon roots. Kristof took up journalism as a teenager in the Willamette
Valley, then went on to study at Harvard and Oxford.

His studies propelled him to a career that has been nothing less than stellar. He has won two Pulitzer Prizes (one shared with his wife, Cheryl WuDunn), traveled to more than 150 countries and written best-selling books. He has advocated for the poor and forgotten around the globe, and shined a light on the slavery and abuse of women.

In a recent column (http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/26/opinion/sunday/nicholas-kristof-the-american-dream-is-leaving-america.html?_r=0) and in a similar one in 2011 (http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/17/opinion/sunday/17kristof.html), Kristof argues that the education escalator has broken down in the United States.

Through his involvement with the "Promise" campaign, however, Kristof is helping celebrate the accomplishments of Oregon students and demonstrating the need to invest in education so that their escalator will carry them to a brighter future.

OSBA is a member services organization for more than 200 locally elected boards serving school districts, education service districts and community colleges. It also provides services to charter schools and their boards.

PORTLAND, OREGON -- A new AARP survey of Oregon registered voters age 45 and older, found that 85 percent of Oregonians want to live independently at home for as long as possible with the help of family caregivers.

When the basic tasks of life become more difficult due to aging or illness, the vast majority of Oregonians (90%) said it is important to have services that allow people to stay in their own home as they age; but the family caregiver wants more resources and training (76%) in order to properly care for their loved one.

"Caregivers take care of family and loved ones because that's what they do," said Jon Bartholomew, Government Relations Director for AARP Oregon. "They don't think of themselves as caregivers. But the meals fixed for Mom and Dad, the visits to the doctor--that help and other long-term care assistance would cost $450 billion nationwide if someone had to be hired to do it."

A whopping 50% of those surveyed are currently providing or have provided unpaid care to an adult loved one who is ill, frail, elderly or has a physical or mental disability. In fact, there are over 460,000 family caregivers in Oregon who help care for aging parents, spouses and other loved ones so they can remain at home - as opposed to costly institutions. These family caregivers provide unpaid care valued at a staggering $5.5 BILLION annually.

The care provided by family caregivers continues to increase in complexity. The impact of shorter hospital stays and advances in home-based medical technologies plays out in the health tasks that family caregivers often carry out, including bandaging and wound care, tube feedings, managing catheters, giving injections or operating medical equipment. And, almost two-thirds of Oregon registered voter caregivers age 45+ have had to use their own money (64%) and nearly half has had to modify their work schedules (49%) in order to provide care for an adult loved one.

Family caregivers are increasingly required to undertake tasks that were once in the domain of only doctors and nurses: complex medication management, wound care, injections. Yet, many receive little or no training for these duties.

Caring for a loved one can be expensive, too. Thirty-two percent (32%) of family caregivers have either gone from working full-time to part-time or given up working entirely and two in ten has had to take a leave of absence from their job. Of those who have had to go into work early or late, or take time off from their job in order to care for an adult loved one, more than a quarter (26%) report that they had to do this once a week or more in order to provide care, while nearly half have had to do this once a month to several times a month. While caregiving has traditionally fallen to females, men 52% of males surveyed, note they are extremely or very likely to be a caregiver in the future.
The demands on the family caregiver are taking an increasing toll on them. The report found that those who take on this unpaid role to help loved ones remain in their own homes and communities risk stress, depression, physical health problems, social isolation, competing demands and financial hardship and thus, are vulnerable themselves. Another AARP study, Long-Term Services and Supports Scorecard, rated Oregon 41st out of 50 states that rate poorly on Oregon Caregiver stress.

"Many caregivers may be 'hidden patients' themselves," said Bartholomew. "They often need support and care to address the negative impact their loved one's illness or disability is having on them."

"Family caregivers are an essential part of the workforce to maintain the health care and LTSS systems for the growing number of people with complex chronic care needs. Family caregiving has been shown to help delay or prevent the use of nursing home care. There is also growing recognition of the value of family members to the delivery of health care, and the ways in which families influence health care decisions, treatments and outcomes."

###

This AARP telephone survey on caregiving was conducted among Oregon residents age 45 and older. The survey was fielded from July 14th to 17th, 2014. A total of 800 interviews were completed and the sample was weighted to reflect the age and gender of the registered voter population age 45 and older in Oregon. The margin of sampling error for this random sample is +/- 3.5 percent. A complete copy of the survey can be found at http://www.aarp.org/home-family/caregiving/info-2014/oregon-caregiving-independent-living.html

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of nearly 38 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse. We advocate for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services. A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world's largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Español, a Spanish-language website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at www.aarp.org.


Attached Media Files: Voice of a caregiver

On Wednesday, January 14, 2015, FBI Agents arrested T. Jeremy Ossana, age 41, on charges of possession and distribution of child pornography. The arrest took place after agents served a search warrant at Ossana's Eugene home. The arrest was without incident.

Ossana is charged via a criminal complaint and made his initial appearance today before a federal magistrate in Eugene.

Assistant United States Attorney Amy Potter is prosecuting the case. Defendants should be considered innocent until proven guilty.

This investigation and arrest is a result of the FBI's partnerships with the Eugene Police Department, Linn County Sheriff's Office, and the Lane County Internet Crimes against Children Task Force.

###

Note to Media: Under U.S. Department of Justice regulations, we are not permitted to release a booking photo.

The Executive Committee of the Oregon State Library Board of Trustees will meet by phone on Thursday January 22, 2015. Aletha Bonebrake of Baker City will chair the meeting, which will begin at 4:00 p.m.

Members of the public who wish to attend the meeting may come to Room 205 at the Oregon State Library.

Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested prior to 48 hours before the meeting; notice prior to 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in alternate formats prior to 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to Jessica Rondema at 503-378-2464.

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OREGON STATE LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
January 22, 2015
4:00 p.m.
Oregon State Library Room 205
Aletha Bonebrake, Chair

Agenda

4:00 p.m. Report of the State Librarian Dahlgreen

4:30 Discussion of the Board Meeting for February 13, 2015 Bonebrake

4:45 Other business Bonebrake

5:00 Adjournment Bonebrake


NOTE: The times of all agenda items are approximate and subject to change.

SALEM--The 2015 tax filing season will begin in January, as scheduled, for both the Oregon Department of Revenue and the Internal Revenue Service. Both agencies will begin accepting returns electronically and processing all returns on January 20, 2015.

Revenue encourages Oregon taxpayers to e-file their state and federal tax returns. "Taxpayers can get their refunds sooner if they e-file," explained Ken Ross, manager of the Personal Income Tax program. "You can get your refund in seven to 10 business days, instead of the six to eight weeks it takes to get your refund if you file a paper return."

Other e-filing benefits include:
* Fewer errors.
* Faster return processing.
* Quick, safe return transmission and acknowledgement of receipt from Revenue and the IRS.

There are a number of e-filing software options. Oregon has teamed up with the IRS Free File Alliance, which means some of the Oregon-approved online tax preparation sites offer free e-filing for federal and Oregon returns. For more information on e-filing, visit www.oregon.gov/dor/e-filing.

Visit www.oregon.gov/dor to get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make tax payments; or call 1-800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish); 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon; or email questions.dor@oregon.gov. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), call 1-800-886-7204.
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Attached Media Files: 2015-01/861/81061/2015_tax_filing_season.pdf

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into a fatal vehicle - pedestrian crash on Old HWY 99E near Wolf Creek bridge and are asking anyone with information on this incident to contact them.

Early information indicates that on January 13, at approximately 7:04 P.M., a 1995 Isuzu Trooper, driven by COLTON J. SHULTS, age 19, of Wolf Creek, struck 69-year-old DELORES GRANTHAM,of Grants Pass, in Wolf Creek on Old Highway 99, approximately 18 miles north of Grants Pass in Josephine County. GRANTHAM was pronounced deceased at the scene and the driver was not injured.

OSP is asking anyone with information on this incident to contact them by calling the OSP Southhern Command Center at (541) 776-6111. Troopoer Quirke is the lead investigator on this incident. OSP was assisted at the scene by the Oregon Department of Transportation, AMR ambulance and the Wolf Creek Fire Department.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1002/81047/20150113_210737_(1).jpg

(Salem) - Registration is open for the Oregon Governor's Occupational Safety and Health (GOSH) Conference, to be held March 9-12, 2015, at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland. With more than 160 workshops and sessions, it is the largest event of its kind in the Northwest.

"An event such as GOSH provides the opportunity for organizations to become re-energized," said Oregon OSHA Administrator Michael Wood. "Whether we are professionals in the field, or simply committed employers and workers, GOSH can help remind us why health and safety matter. Ultimately, it's about people - about people going home safe and whole. About people spending time with their friends and families, rather than having that time cut short by a workplace injury, illness, or even death."

Keynote speaker Jim Wiethorn, a forensic engineer at Haag Engineering, will present "Forensics: It's Elementary My Dear Watson" on Tuesday, March 10. Wiethorn, who has examined more than 800 crane accidents during his career, will talk about how to effectively conduct an accident investigation.

"The key to forensic investigations is focusing on evidence," said Wiethorn. "Evidence tells a story. Examine the details, follow the falling dominoes, and you will have the answer."

Other general topics covered at conference include:

* Safety committee training
* Safety leadership and workplace culture
* Ergonomics
* Regulatory updates

The conference will also feature session tracks on specialties such as utility work, construction, emergency preparedness and response, agriculture, and health care.

Back by popular demand is the Columbia Forklift Challenge and registration is open to participants. Trained forklift drivers will compete for cash in an obstacle course designed to test their skills and safe operation on Wednesday, March 11, 2015.

The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA), a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, is partnering with the Columbia-Willamette Chapter of the American Society of Safety Engineers to sponsor the conference.

For more information on the conference schedule, events or to register, go to www.oregongosh.com.

###

About Oregon OSHA:
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 www.orosha.org and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OregonOSHA.

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


Attached Media Files: GOSH logo

HOLIDAY HIRING AND BROAD JOB GROWTH BOOST VACANCIES

Oregon businesses reported 45,700 vacancies in fall 2014, an increase of 13,400 vacancies from the prior year. The growing number of vacancies reflects strong job growth across Oregon in recent months.

Three large but diverse industries reported the most job vacancies in the fall. Holiday hiring boosted retail trade vacancies, and the industry led the way with 7,200 openings. Health care, a perennial job vacancy industry leader, reported 6,700. Manufacturing, which experienced stronger job growth in 2014, registered the third-highest job vacancy total in the fall (5,200).

The variety among the top-vacancy industries offers a diverse group of opportunities for Oregonians. Retail trade businesses most commonly reported fall vacancies for retail salespersons, cashiers, and delivery services drivers. Registered nurses and nursing assistants topped the list of health care occupations with vacancies. Manufacturers sought assemblers and machine operators, drivers, and engineers, among others.


Fall 2014 also brought the highest average hourly wage in the two-year history of the quarterly Oregon Job Vacancy Survey. The overall average wage was $16.47. Average wages generally increased along with educational requirements. The average hourly wage listed for vacancies requiring postsecondary training was nearly $7.00 more than those requiring a high school diploma. Vacancies with bachelor's or advanced degree requirements paid an additional $12.00 per hour above the postsecondary average.

Oregon continued to have three unemployed persons per job vacancy in the fall. That's the same 3-to-1 unemployed-to-vacancy ratio as in the spring and summer, but well below the 8-to-1 ratio in Oregon when the quarterly survey began in winter 2013. This steady ratio in 2014 reflects, in a manner similar to Oregon's unchanging unemployment rate, that the number of unemployed Oregonians remains high due to recent growth in the state's labor force entrants. Nationwide, the ratio stabilized at two unemployed persons per vacancy in the spring, summer, and fall of 2014.

Statewide, employers reported that half of all vacancies were difficult to fill. The most-frequently cited reasons for difficulty filling positions included a lack of applicants or a lack of qualified candidates. Employers in the Portland tri-county area reported a slightly lower share of difficult-to-fill vacancies (46%), while employers in all other areas of the state reported difficulty filling vacancies a majority of the time. Difficult-to-fill vacancies were especially prominent in Central (63%) and Eastern Oregon (78%).

About the Survey

The Oregon Employment Department's Job Vacancy Survey started in May 2008 and became quarterly in 2013. This survey serves as a current indicator of hiring demand and focuses specifically on characteristics of vacancies for anyone seeking a job in Oregon. In addition to developing the estimate of total vacancies in the state, the survey also provides insights on the industries hiring, wages offered, and education required. In recent years, the survey has also asked businesses whether their vacancies are difficult to fill.

The Employment Department publishes a quarterly summary of vacancy survey results, as well as annual, more detailed reports on wages, education requirements, and the reasons why businesses have difficulty filling openings.

Survey results are based on responses from private-sector businesses with at least two employees. Estimates for winter 2015 will be released in April.

For more details on recent Oregon job vacancies, visit the "publications" tab on QualityInfo.org and scroll down to the "Job Vacancy Survey" section.

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


Attached Media Files: Fall 2014 Oregon Job Vacancy Report

SAN FRANCISCO - Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) reported diluted earnings per common share of $4.10 for 2014, up 5 percent from $3.89 in 2013. Full year net income was $23.1 billion, compared with $21.9 billion in 2013. For fourth quarter 2014, net income was $5.7 billion, or $1.02 per share, compared with $5.6 billion, or $1.00 per share, for fourth quarter 2013.

"Wells Fargo had another strong year in 2014, with continued strength in the fundamental drivers of long-term performance: growing customers, loans, deposits and capital," said Chairman and CEO John Stumpf. "As a result of this performance, we were able to return more capital to our shareholders during the year. Our success is the result of our 265,000 team members remaining focused on meeting the financial needs of our customers in the communities we serve. As the U.S. economy continues to build momentum, I'm optimistic that our diversified business model will continue to benefit all of our stakeholders in 2015."

Chief Financial Officer John Shrewsberry said, "Our performance in the fourth quarter was a great example of the benefit of our diversified business model and reflected a continuation of the solid results we generated all year. Compared with the prior quarter, we increased deposits and grew commercial and consumer loans while maintaining our risk and pricing discipline. Revenue increased as net interest income benefited from loan growth and the prudent deployment of our liquidity. Fee income remained strong and diversified. Credit quality continued to improve. We also maintained strong capital and liquidity, and returned more capital to shareholders in the quarter."

The full earnings news release is posted at wellsfargo.com.

# # #

EUGENE - Attendees at the Good Earth Home, Garden & Living Show on Jan. 23-25 at the Lane County Fairgrounds in Eugene can do more than learn about the latest products for their own use. Thanks to a joint effort between the local Rotary Club and the show's producer, they will also be able to help families around the world recover from disaster.

Show admission is free with a donation of canned food but donations to ShelterBoxUSA will be accepted. For the second year in a row, Berg Productions, manager of the show, will match donations (up to $10,000).

With the generous matching donation provided by Berg Productions, the Eugene Delta Rotary Club raised $20,000 for ShelterBoxUSA at the 2014 Good Earth Home, Garden & Living Show.

ShelterBoxUSA brings lifesaving aid to families affected by war or natural disasters. It responds instantly following natural and other disasters by delivering boxes of aid to those who need it most. Each ShelterBox supplies an extended family with a tent and essential equipment to use while they are displaced or homeless.

Show attendees will be able to view what's in a typical aid box by going to the Eugene Delta Rotary Club exhibit. The club's booth will feature an actual ShelterBox and the 18-person tent that is delivered to families who have lost everything.

Based in Florida, ShelterBoxUSA's goal is to help 50,000 families every year. Information about how the public can support its work will be available at the home show and is also online at www.ShelterBoxUSA.org or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyM_sk8tjEo.

For more information about the Good Earth Home, Garden & Living Show, go to www.EugeneHomeShow.com.

January 14, 2015

Mid-year Health System Transformation report shows continued progress into 2014

First report to include data on new Oregon Health Plan members since the Affordable Care Act

Oregon's mid-year Health System Transformation report lays out the progress of Oregon's coordinated care organizations on key quality and financial measures. For the first time, the report includes a special section with data on the new Oregon Health Plan members who have joined since January 1, 2014, as more people became eligible for Medicaid through the Affordable Care Act.

The report, which covers July 1, 2013, through June 30, 2014, shows continuing improvements in areas such as enrollment in patient-centered primary care homes, decreased emergency department visits, and hospital admissions from chronic diseases. Additionally, financial data indicate coordinated care organizations are continuing to hold down costs. Oregon is staying within the budget that meets its commitment to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to reduce the growth in spending by two percentage points per member, per year.

The coordinated care model continues to show improvements in the following areas for the state's Oregon Health Plan members:

-- Decreased emergency department visits. Emergency department visits by people served by CCOs have decreased 21 percent since 2011 baseline data.

-- Decreased hospital admissions for short-term complications from diabetes. The rate of adult patients (age 18 and older) with diabetes who had a hospital stay because of a short-term problem from their disease dropped by 9 percent since 2011 baseline data.

-- Decreased rate of hospital admissions for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The rate of adult patients (age 40 and older) who had a hospital stay because of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma decreased by 48 percent since 2011 baseline data.

-- Patient-centered Primary Care Home enrollment continues to increase. Coordinated care organizations continue to increase the proportion of members enrolled in patient-centered primary care homes - indicating continued momentum even with the new members added since January 1, 2014. Patient-centered Primary Care Home enrollment has increased 55 percent since 2011. Additionally, primary care costs continue to increase, which means more health care services are happening within primary care rather than other settings such as emergency departments.

This is the first report to include data on some key measures for Oregonians who have newly enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan since the Affordable Care Act took effect in 2014. The proportion of Medicaid members ages 19-35 has increased more than other age groups between December 2013 and October 2014. Data show that newly enrolled Oregon Health Plan members use emergency rooms 33 percent less frequently than those currently enrolled. Newly enrolled Oregon Health Plan members also have fewer avoidable emergency room visits than other members.

"This report shows Oregon's continued progress in transforming the health delivery system," said Suzanne Hoffman, interim director of the Oregon Health Authority. "We will continue to measure progress, share it publicly, and learn from the successes and challenges."

The report is available online at www.Oregon.gov/oha/metrics.

# # #

The Oregon Health Plan is now open to more adults as allowed under the Affordable Care Act. Today, approximately 990,000 Oregonians are enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan - more than 380,000 Oregonians gained coverage in 2014. Learn more at Health.Oregon.gov.

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) announces the 2014 Operators of the Year and Merit Award recipients for responsible, innovative, proactive forest work that protects natural resources.

Oregon's Board of Forestry established the awards program to recognize people and companies that consistently meet or exceed the Oregon Forest Practices Act requirements, which include:
* Responsible harvesting,
* Replanting after harvest,
* Protecting streamside areas,
* Building and maintaining roads to protect streams,
* Protecting and providing wildlife and fish habitat, and
* Preserving and protecting our water quality.

The three Regional Forest Practices Committees each select an Operator of the Year and may also give Merit Awards. Private Forests Division Chief Peter Daugherty said, "These are the best of the many operators in Oregon who regularly go beyond the letter of the law to protect natural resources. We're pleased to honor this exemplary work."

Todd Hueckman Contracting - Eastern Operator of the Year
Burns - Todd Hueckman earned the Eastern Oregon Operator of the year award for his work on a roughly seventy-acre harvest with the primary purpose of stopping dwarf mistletoe from infecting the property owners' remaining acres. Mr. Hueckman's techniques using equipment to decrease the impact on the land, like using the boom of his tracked equipment as a pivot rather than just skidding on the tracks to turn, show his ongoing commitment to protecting the land. Mr. Hueckman also found a way to make the harvest work, despite the nearest mill being over two hours away. (Watch video at http://youtu.be/pxqawWIutfI)

Robert Howell Logging, LLC - Northwest Operator of the Year
Cottage Grove - Robert Howell Logging, LLC earned the Northwest Operator of the Year Award for work done in the Triangle Lake area. Mr. Howell skillfully executed a small harvest on difficult terrain with neighbors close by. The Howell team's work with the neighbors and considerate planning allowed a successful harvest while protecting two domestic water sources, homes, and power lines. Their work not only protected natural resources but also satisfied neighbors.

Bewley Investments - Southwest Operator of the Year
Central Point - Bewley Investments, owned by Brian Bewley, earned the Southwest Operator of the Year for their sustained commitment to protecting natural resources. The particular harvest considered when choosing Mr. Bewley's company had three streams to protect and a neighbor whose view could have been impacted by the harvest. Mr. Bewley took extra precautions, beyond the Forest Practices Act requirements, to prevent debris and dirt from entering the streams and to retain more trees throughout the harvest area for habitat purposes and aesthetics. (Watch video at http://youtu.be/QD2QjUFRD-Q)

Merit Awards
All nominees exceeded the Forest Practices requirements and improved Oregon's forests, fish and wildlife habitat, fire safety needs, and water quality. The Committees gave Merit Awards for excellent work to:
1. WyEast Forestry Management - Hood River
(Watch video at http://youtu.be/eYibb6Ue3w8)
2. Huffman and Wright Logging Co. - Canyonville
(Watch video at http://youtu.be/RleyKnaI_d0)

The winners will be recognized during the statewide meeting of Associated Oregon Loggers in Eugene on January 15, at the Oregon Logging Conference in Eugene on February 19, to formally receive their awards at the Board's March 4 meeting in Salem, and during the Oregon Small Woodland Association meeting in June.

In 1971, Oregon enacted the Forest Practices Act, the nation's model forest management laws. Many states have followed Oregon's lead. Oregon's model focuses on forest operations and protecting natural resources. The Act remains current through updates grounded in fact and science, which creates a balanced approach allowing logging and protecting natural resources.

###

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports on Tuesday, January 13, 2015, his deputies were involved in a pursuit of a vehicle that resulted in a crash on Hwy 20 east of Sweet Home.

Due to recent thefts and burglaries in the area, deputies were conducting proactive focused patrols in the area of Hwy 20 and Weatherly Lane. At 12:21 a.m., a deputy saw a vehicle traveling east on Hwy 20 without lights. As the deputy began to follow, the vehicle pulled over and parked blocking a residential driveway.

As the deputy attempted to make contact with the female operator, later identified as 31-year old Holly Marie Craig of Sweet Home, she sped off in a black 2005 Cadillac Escalade.

On Hwy 20, Craig reached speeds over 100 MPH. Linn County Deputies and Officers from Sweet Home Police Department continued to pursue Craig east on Main Street through Sweet Home at speeds between 70-80 MPH.

Craig lost control of her vehicle and crashed on Hwy 20 near the weigh station just east of Sweet Home. Upon arrival of police units, the Cadillac was located upside down near a wooded area on the north side of the highway with flames coming from the vehicle.

Craig was pinned under the roof of the Cadillac. Deputies and Officers attempted to put the fire out. They were able to remove Craig from under the burning vehicle prior to the Sweet Home Fire Department's arrival. Craig was transported to Lebanon Community Hospital for non-life threatening injuries and then transported to OHSU in Portland for surgery.

Craig was cited for DUII and Attempting to Elude Police.

This case remains under investigation.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/2993/81038/IMG_2066.JPG , 2015-01/2993/81038/IMG_2062.JPG

*** Media Update ***

One additional photo (showing the white Hyundai) has been added. The photo was originally withheld to notify next of kin.

Oregon State Police troopers are continuing the investigation into a two-vehicle, head-on crash on HWY 99E near milepost 17, in Clackamas County, near Canby. Previous information that the crash involved two fatalities was amended, however, since that correction, a second person has died, making this a double fatality crash.

Preliminary investigation at the scene indicates that at approximately 10:20 A.M., a Grey, 2000 Hyundai Accent sedan was southbound on highway 99E near milepost 17 when for a yet undetermined reason, it crossed the center line into oncoming traffic. This section of highway has two northbound lanes. The Hyundai collided head-on with an unknown year, 'Eagle' make, semi-tractor pulling a flat bed trailer loaded with an asphalt roller, that was northbound in the right-hand lane.

The driver of the Hyundai, identified as MEGHAN A. CALLAHAN, 31, of Milwaukie, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The 9-year-old (age corrected from 8) and name not released, female passenger was flown to Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU) where she died at approximately 12:47 P.M. The driver of the semi-truck was not injured and is cooperating with investigators.

The semi-truck is reported to have spilled a small amount (under 50 gallons) of diesel fuel during the crash. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality responded to assist.

OSP is being assisted at the scene by the Oregon Department of Transportation, Canby Fire District, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, Mollala Police Department, West Linn Police Department and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

Further details will be released when they become available.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1002/81003/99E_MP_17_-2.JPG , 2015-01/1002/81003/99E_MP_17_-_1.JPG , 2015-01/1002/81003/99E_MP_17_-3.JPG

Salem OR - The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) announces the opening of the 2015 Local Government Grant Program grant cycle for funding public parks and recreation projects.

Large, small and planning grants are available for cities, counties, metropolitan service districts, park and recreation districts, and port districts looking to fund the following types of projects: planning, development, rehabilitation, acquisition, and acquisition and development.

The Local Government Grant Program is designed to help local government agencies acquire property for park purposes and fund outdoor park and recreation areas and facilities. The grants are funded from voter-approved lottery money.

OPRD gives more than $4 million annually to Oregon communities for outdoor recreation projects and has awarded nearly $50 million in grants since 1999.

Applications, a grant manual, application deadlines and other information are online at oprdgrants.org.

The joint meeting of the Northwest and Southwest Oregon Regional Forest Practice Committees scheduled for January 15 in Molalla has been cancelled by the chairs of both committees due to insufficient attendance from the committee members. The meeting had been scheduled to discuss forest practices rules affecting riparian (streamside) areas.

The Oregon Department of Forestry apologies for any inconvenience this may have caused, however, it will be rescheduled for a later time.

On January 11, 2015, the Corvallis Police Department, and Corvallis/Benton County Crash Investigation team, investigated a fatal traffic crash in the 1800 block of NW Highway 99.

As a result of the crash, a pedestrian was struck and killed. John Edward McCrummen, 50, originally of Oklahoma, died at the scene from injuries he sustained from being struck by the involved pickup.

The pickup skidded off of the east side of Highway 99W and came to rest upside down at the bottom of the embankment. The driver Ronald Reed, 61, and his passenger Marilyn Sanchez, 68, both of Albany, were pinned inside the pickup for several minutes. They were freed from the vehicle by Corvallis Fire Department and transported to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center where they were treated and released.

At the time of the collision, it was dark, raining, and the area of the collision was unlit. McCrummen was wearing dark clothes and carrying a black military style duffle bag. At this time there is no evidence to support a criminal charge in this situation.

The Salem Police Department is urging the public to not leave vehicles warming up unattended in the mornings.

A northeast Salem man learned this lesson the hard way on the morning of January 12 when he left his 2001 Volkswagen Jetta warming up in his driveway at about 4:30 am as he prepared for work. The victim started his vehicle to warm it up and left it running with the key in the ignition as he went back into his residence to finish getting ready. When he went back out less than ten minutes later, the car had been stolen right from his driveway.

The victim did the right thing and called 911 immediately to report the incident and the information on the stolen vehicle was immediately broadcast to patrol units in the area. Within about ten minutes, Salem Police Officer Robert Dowd spotted what looked like the stolen vehicle on Cordon Rd near Pennsylvania Ave SE. As he attempted to turn his patrol vehicle around to verify that the vehicle was in fact the stolen vehicle, it accelerated and turned eastbound onto State St, south onto 62nd Ave SE, ran the stop sign on 62nd Ave and Macleay Rd and turned eastbound on Macleay Rd. The vehicle then turned into the front yard of 6522 Macleay Rd and eventually crashed into a drainage ditch along the roadway. As Officer Dowd attempted to contact the driver of the stolen vehicle, the driver fled on foot and left a passenger in the vehicle. Once the passenger was taken into custody Officer Marty Miranda and his canine partner Enzo began to track the driver who had fled from the vehicle on foot, discarding various items of clothing along the way. The suspect was eventually found hiding under a tarp in the backyard of a neighboring residence and taken into custody without further incident.

The passenger in the stolen vehicle was identified as 20-year old Casey Scott Higley of Keizer. He was charged with Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle, Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Burglars Tools.

The driver of the stolen vehicle was identified as 23-year old Samantha Diana Solis-Croucher with no known address. She was charged with Attempting to Elude a Police Officer, Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree, Theft in the First Degree from a Vehicle, Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver Involved in an Accident and Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle.

The Salem Police Department urges everyone to not leave running vehicles unattended at any time. Even if the vehicle is locked, it only takes a second for a thief to break the window and steal the vehicle. Every year during the cold winter months the Salem Police Department investigates several reports of vehicles that are stolen while left running and unattended. Please don't become a victim. Stay with your vehicle when warming it up and get to your destination safely and on time.

A Grants Pass man was arrested in Portland on Friday after an investigation by the Oregon State Police Criminal Investigations Division into the injuries of his 7-week-old child. The man was arrested by troopers and ultimately lodged in the Josephine County Jail.

On Friday, January 9, 2015, the Oregon State Police Major Crimes Section in Central Point was notified of an injured 7-week-old infant who had been transported to Doernbecher Children's Hospital in Portland two days earlier with critical injuries. The infant was initially transported to Three Rivers Medical Center and after successful resuscitation efforts transferred to Doernbecher's in Portland where the child is still under medical care.

OSP Detectives in Central Point started an investigation into the incident and subsequently requested assistance from OSP Major Crimes Detectives in Portland to contact the child's father at the hospital. After being interviewed by OSP Detectives, the child's father, identified as KEVIN 'TONY' McCAGE, age 27, was taken into custody on charges related to the child's injuries.

McCAGE was transported by Oregon State Police troopers to Grants Pass where he was lodged at the Josephine County Jail on charges of Assault in the first degree and Criminal Mistreatment in the first degree.

Anyone with information on this investigation is asked to contact:

Detective Deanna Harris Sergeant Jeff Fitzgerald
Criminal Investigation Services Division or Criminal Investigation Services Division
Southwest Regional Headquarters Southwest Regional Headquarters
541-618-7967 541-618-7952

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
@ORStatePolice


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1002/81004/McCage_Booking_Photo.PNG

120112-FS713-44.jpg
The Oregon Military Department's State Anti-terrorism Officer Rocky Kumlin, and Anti-terrorism Program Manager Jodie Dutton watch the inauguration of Governor John Kitzhaber during an exercise at the Oregon Office of Emergency Management (OEM), Jan. 12. OEM conducted a limited activation of its Emergency Coordination Center during the inauguration.
(Oregon Office of Emergency Management photo by Cory E. Grogan)

120112-FS713-34.jpg
The Oregon Office of Emergency Management (OEM) activated its Emergency Coordination Center during an exercise to monitor the inauguration of Gov. John Kitzhaber Jan. 12 at OEM. The limited activation included representatives from the Oregon Military Department, Oregon State Police and the Fusion Center. The activation helps to ensure the continuity of government operations during transition of state leadership.
(Oregon Office of Emergency Management photo by Cory E. Grogan)

120112-FS713-34.jpg
The Oregon Office of Emergency Management (OEM) activated its Emergency Coordination Center during an exercise to monitor the inauguration of Gov. John Kitzhaber Jan. 12 at OEM. The limited activation included representatives from the Oregon Military Department, Oregon State Police and the Fusion Center. The activation helps to ensure the continuity of government operations during transition of state leadership.
(Oregon Office of Emergency Management photo by Cory E. Grogan)


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/3986/81002/120112-FS713-44.jpg , 2015-01/3986/81002/120112-FS713-34.jpg , 2015-01/3986/81002/120112-FS713-54.jpg.jpg

The Polk County Sheriff's Office is currently accepting Reserve Deputy Sheriff applications for the Reserve Academy that runs from early November 2015 until the end of May 2016. The application deadline is February 13th, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. Applicants must be 21 years of age and will be required at a minimum to pass a written test, interviews, criminal background check, psychological evaluation, physical fitness test and drug screening. Apply at http://www.co.polk.or.us/ru/volunteer-opportunities-polk-county and select the volunteer application.

Send the completed applications to the Polk County Sheriff's Office at 850 Main St Dallas, Or 97338. For further information, contact Detective John Williams at 503-623-9251.

Cave Junction man faces felony assault charges after an investigation by the Oregon State Police (OSP).

JOHN GERARD HOGAN, age 54, was arrested Wednesday, January 7th, and faces charges for First Degree Attempted Assault, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Reckless Driving, Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree and Driving While Under the Influence of an Intoxicant.

On December 29, 2014, at approximately 10:55 P.M., Oregon State Police troopers responded to a rural address in Josephine County for a report of a disturbance with shots being fired. The involved male subject, later determined to be Hogan, was reported to be in his vehicle outside the residence where he was making threats toward others and creating a disturbance. The caller reported Hogan was firing shots from his truck and later rammed his truck into another vehicle that arrived on scene during the disturbance.

An ongoing criminal investigation by OSP detectives determined that Hogan struck the second (arriving) vehicle with his truck numerous times at the residence and then chased the vehicle and its occupants down the road as he continued to crash into it from behind. Hogan eventually crashed his truck shortly after leaving the scene and was later hospitalized for injuries he received as a result of the crash.

One of the victim's in the second vehicle was also transported to Three Rivers Community Hospital where she was treated and released. The investigation indicates that alcohol may have played a role in the incident.

On January 7th Hogan turned himself in to troopers at the Grants Pass office and was arrested. He was lodged in the Josephine County Jail on a $50.000 bail. No photographs are available for this release.

As of 9:30pm, Highway 99W in Corvallis has been re-opened. The investigation into this incident is ongoing and names are still being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

On January 11, 2014, at about 5:53pm, Corvallis Police Officers responded to a traffic collision involving a pedestrian in the 1800 Block of Highway 99W. When Officers arrived they discovered the involved pedestrian was deceased at the scene, and the involved vehicle was upside down at the bottom of an embankment on the east side of the highway.

At this time, Investigators from the Corvallis/Benton County Crash Investigation Team are investigating the scene of the collision. Highway 99W remains closed at this time between NE Circle Blvd. and NW Buchanan Ave. There is no anticipated time for the re-opening of the highway, but an update will be sent when the highway is re-opened.

The occupants of the vehicle were extricated from their vehicle and transported to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center with minor injuries. The driver is cooperating with investigation. At this time the investigation is ongoing and the names of the involved individuals are not being released pending additional investigative efforts and notification of next of kin.

Today at about 1:00 p.m., Brewer the dog, was returned to the Sheriff's Office, he is currently being held at Marion County Dog Control and will remain there until Monday. The Sheriff's Office and our partners at Dog Control and the Human Society will continue working with Brewer and his owner to ensure the dog is properly taken care of.

Again the Sheriff's Office understands the complex nature of these complaints and thanks the responsible party that returned the dog. However, anyone caught trespassing at the owners residence will be arrested and taken to the Marion County Jail. We also are aware there are many images of Brewer circulating. That is why we are releasing the attached images taken today and clearly showing that Brewer is healthy and well cared for.

As we promised we did not ask the person returning Brewer any questions regarding the theft or how they came in possession of the dog, but we do understand that he may have visited the Oregon Coast during his disappearance. The Sheriff's Office does not anticipate any further releases regarding this matter.


*****************

For approximately the last month the Marion County Sheriff's Office and its partners, the Marion County Dog Control, the Oregon Humane Society and the District Attorney's Office have been working complaints brought forth by a neighbor regarding a dog named Brewer. Over this time period, each entity has conducted its own investigation regarding the dog and have determined that no crimes have been committed and the dog is being cared for by standards set forth in the law.

Sometime over night an unknown person or persons entered the private property of the dog's owner, who lives in the 14000 block of Marion Road SE, near Marion. The Sheriff's Office does suspect that the theft coincides with a Facebook post regarding the dog. The Facebook post was a call for action and it is suspected that the theft occurred because of this call for action.

The Sheriff's Office understands the complex nature of these types of complaints and understands both sides involved can become very emotionally charged. That is why the Sheriff's Office is offering the opportunity for the dogs return within the next 48 hours with no questions asked. If you possess the dog or know someone who does, the dog can be returned to any deputy sheriff or to the Marion County Dog Control.

If Brewer is not located within this time period the Sheriff's Office intends to pursue its investigation and the involved parties could face criminal prosecution, theft of a dog is a class C Felony. If you know where Brewer is located please call 503-588-5032.

The Facebook posts can be found at https://www.facebook.com/hopeshavenrescue/photos/pcb.978089165553231/978087235553424/?type=1&theater


Attached Media Files: Brewer , 2015-01/1294/80969/Brewer_B.jpg , 2015-01/1294/80969/Brewer_A.jpg , 2015-01/1294/80969/Brewer.jpg

>Please note RSVP required for attendance, thank you.

The Northwest and Southwest Oregon Regional Forest Practice Committees will meet jointly January 15 in Molalla from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. They will discuss forest practices rules including those affecting riparian (streamside) areas.

The meeting includes a field portion with an on-site forest visit.

On the agenda:
The majority of the meeting will be spent moving discussions forward about forest practice rules that apply to streamside management. Introductions by ODF's Angie Lane, policy analyst, will be followed by discussions about best management practices for streamside management and protecting water quality.

Attendees, including staff and committee members, will visit a forested site to discuss potential prescriptions for streamside management including buffers around streams, shade requirements and recommendations to meet water temperature standards.

This public meeting will be held in the conference room of the Molalla Fire Department at 320 S. Molalla Avenue in Molalla, Oregon.

About the Regional Forest Practice Committees
Regional Forest Practice Committees are panels of citizens - mandated under Oregon law - that advise the Oregon Board of Forestry on current forestry issues and forest management approaches. Three Regional Forest Practice Committees, serving the Northwest, Southwest and Eastern regions of the state, were created by the 1971 Oregon Forest Practices Act. Under Oregon law, a majority of Regional Forest Practice Committees members must be private forest landowners and logging or forest operations companies.

>Anyone may attend the meeting; please RSVP to the number below. Please bring a lunch and water as well as personal transportation and dress appropriately in field gear. Parking: There is parking behind the Fire Station or on the street. Enter conference room at rear of the station, please do not use main entrance. The meeting is accessible to persons with disabilities.

Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. For questions about accessibility or special accommodations please call 503-945-7502.

Oregon's forests are among one of the state's most valued resources, providing a balanced mix of environmental, economic and social benefits.

Additional information about ODF's Regional Forest Practice Committees is available on the Oregon Department of Forestry's web site: www.oregon.gov/ODF/pages/board/rfpc/rfpc.aspx

###

The American Red Cross Cascades Region is assisting after residential fires earlier today in Lane County, Oregon and Skamania County, Washington

A single-family fire in the 100 block of S. 41st Street in Springfield, Oregon displaced two adults and one child. The Red Cross provided immediate emergency assistance for lodging, food, clothing, comfort kits and information on disaster mental health and disaster health services.

A single-family fire in the 100 block of North fork Road in Skamania, Wash. affected one adult. The Red Cross provided immediate emergency assistance for food, bed linens, comfort kits and information on disaster mental health and disaster health services.

The Oregon State Marine Board held their quarterly Board meeting at the Portland Yacht Club on January 8. The Board approved two grants and opened rulemaking for two administrative rules.

The Board approved a grant to Metro Parks and Environmental Services to replace the heavily used and aging wood boarding docks at Chinook Landing in Multnomah County with new, aluminum docks with fiberglass decking. The project will be broken into two phases: fabricate and store the docks in 2015, then deliver and install the docks during the in-water work window of November 1 through February 28, 2016. The grant also covers the cost of removing the old dock structures. The Board approved $510,900 in state boater funds, combined with $1,800 of applicant in-kind contributions and $100,000 matching funds for a project total of $612,700.

The Board also approved a grant to Tillamook County to dredge Memaloose Point Boat Launch. This facility has been dredged numerous times in the past and Tillamook County agreed to a Marine Board staff recommendation to obtain special surveys and hydrographic modeling for alternative facility designs to mitigate the need for future dredging. The Board approved $105,275 in state boater funds, combined with $3,656 of in-kind resources and $49,817 matching funds from Tillamook County for a project total of $158,748.

In other business, the Board approved opening rulemaking for Division 016, Outfitter/Guide Program to amend definitions and add references to other criminal statutes to the Outfitter/Guide Program rules. The Board authorized staff to request concurrent rulemaking with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The Board also approved rulemaking to adopt OAR 250-010-0164 Visual Distress Signals to be in concurrence with federal rules.

To view the agency staff report presented to the Marine Board, visit http://www.oregon.gov/OSMB/Pages/admin/members.aspx.

###

As of this hour, investigators have completed their activities at lasts night fire at Woodburn Auto Sales. Detectives have found that the fire took place in a residence attached to the Woodburn Auto Sales lot and that residence is described as a total loss. Detectives do believe the fire was intentionally set and they are asking for the public's help with any information regarding the fire.

That information can be sent to our tip line at 503-540-8079.


****************

This morning at about 4:00 a.m., deputies with the Marion County Sheriff's Office were called to 1050 South Pacific Highway, Woodburn Auto Sales, to assist fire personnel with a structure fire. When deputies arrived they learned that fire personnel had deemed the fire suspicious and they were requesting help with the investigation.

The scene around the fire has been secured and investigators with the Marion Polk Fire Investigative Team are responding to begin probing into the cause of the fire. At this time there are no injuries and no road closures associated to the investigation. Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding the fire to please call our tip line at 503-540-8079, you can remain anonymous.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1294/80941/Fire.jpg

As the Oregon Ducks prepare to compete in the first ever national college football championship next Monday, Jan. 12, Wells Fargo is showing its enthusiasm and support of the team.

All of Wells Fargo's 235 ATMs in Oregon now have a message on their home screen that says: "Wells Fargo congratulates Oregon on their successful football season."

The message will remain on the ATM screens until the following Monday, Jan. 19.

Wells Fargo is also encouraging its bank branch employees in Oregon to get in the spirit by wearing green and gold clothing (Ducks colors) on the day of the game.

"This game and the Ducks are putting our beloved state in the national spotlight in a positive way. And that's something of which we can all be proud, even diehard Oregon State Beaver fans," said Wells Fargo Oregon Region President Tracy Curtis of Portland.

"Oregon is getting college football fans around America to quack: 'Go Ducks!' We wish the Ducks the best of luck next Monday," Curtis said.

Serving Oregonians since 1852, Wells Fargo is the oldest bank in the west.

# # #

Nature of Crime or Event: Assault in the second degree, Criminal Mischief in the first degree, Resisting Arrest and Disorderly Conduct in the second degree
Date / Time Occurred: January 8th, 2015
Occurred Location: 2nd Street and Oak Street

Arrested: Ricky A. Aldrich, November 9, 1981

On January 8th, 2015 at approximately 9:35 PM, Officer Bach of the Lebanon Police Department was at the intersection of S. 2nd St. and W. Oak St. directing traffic at a motor vehicle crash when he saw an adult male subject, later identified as Ricky A. Aldrich, date of birth, November 9, 1981 walking in the area of the crash holding a golf club in his hand. About two minutes later, Officer Bach heard two large "banging" sounds in that same area. Officer Bach saw Ricky Aldrich holding the golf club over his head, walking away from a parked vehicle. A few minutes later, Lebanon dispatch informed Officer Bach and other units that several people were chasing after a male subject holding a golf club in the area of the alleyway behind 668 S. Main St.

Officer Bach cleared from the crash to assist in the call of the people chasing the man with the golf club, Ricky Aldrich. When Officer Bach got to the location he saw several adult subjects standing around two male subjects who were struggling on the ground. Officer Baker of the Lebanon Police Department arrived on scene at the same time as Officer Bach. Officer Bach and Officer Baker were able to quickly determine Ricky Aldrich was the male being held down on the ground by a Good Samaritan. As Officer Bach and Officer Baker tried to take custody of Ricky Aldrich, he became combative and was kicking at the officer's legs, however; did not connect with the officers legs.

As Officer Bach and Officer Baker struggled to gain control of Ricky Aldrich, Officer Bach could see and hear an adult male, later identified as Edward A. Hurt. After taking Ricky Aldrich into custody, Officer Bach was able to contact Edward Hurt who was groaning and clutching at his stomach.

Edward Hurt had blood on his hands and elbows due to a cut he had sustained during the struggle with Ricky Aldrich and was continually clutching at his ribs. Witnesses on scene began telling the officers that Edward Hurt was the individual who ultimately stopped Ricky Aldrich from smashing more vehicles and, in the process, was struck by Ricky Aldrich with the golf club.

Ricky Aldrich was taken into custody at about 9:43 PM. Several witnesses told officers that Ricky Aldrich was seen walking North on S. Main St., wielding a golf club, smashing the windshields out of vehicles parked on the roadway. In total, six vehicles were located with smashed windshields.


Ricky Aldrich told Officer Bach that he was smashing cars with a golf club because a bartender at a local bar refused to serve him anymore alcohol, so he went home, grabbed a golf club and started hitting cars.

Ricky Aldrich was then transported to the Linn County Jail for booking and lodging on the charges of Assault in the second degree, Criminal Mischief in the first degree, Resisting Arrest and Disorderly Conduct in the second degree.

Edward Hurt was treated by Lebanon medics for the injuries he sustained by Ricky Aldrich and was released on scene.

The Lebanon Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident to determine the total value of damage to all of the property.

If you believe you are a victim in this case and have not been contacted by the Lebanon Police Department, you are asked to contact Officer Bach at 541-258-4328.

The most important thing YOU can do is call the police to report a crime or any suspicious activity. You have to be the eyes of your neighborhood. And remember you can always remain a pair of anonymous eyes!
Light up your residence, lock your doors at all times, and call the Police when you see something suspicious.
Make your home look occupied, and make it difficult to break in.
Lock all outside doors and windows before you leave the house or go to bed. Even if it is for a short time, lock your doors.
Leave lights on when you go out. If you are going to be away for a length of time, connect some lamps to automatic timers to turn them on in the evening and off during the day.
Keep your garage door closed and locked.
Don't allow daily deliveries of mail, newspapers or flyers build up while you are away. Arrange with the Post Office to hold your mail, or arrange for a friend or neighbor to take them regularly.
Arrange for your lawn to be mowed if you are going away for an extended time.
Check your locks on doors and windows and replace them with secure devices as necessary.
Pushbutton locks on doorknobs are easy for burglars to open. Install deadbolt locks on all your outside doors.
Sliding glass doors are vulnerable. Special locks are available for better security.
Other windows may need better locks. Check with a locksmith or hardware store for alternatives.
Don't Tempt a Thief:
Lawn mowers, barbecues and bicycles are best stored out of sight
Always lock your garden sheds and garages.
Use curtains on garage and basement windows.
Never leave notes on your door such as "Gone shopping."
Locks...Get the Best:
No lock, regardless of its quality, can be truly effective. Key-in dead bolt locks provide minimum security. Ask a locksmith for advice on your situation.
Change locks immediately if your keys are lost or stolen.
When moving into a new home, have all locks changed.
Targeting the Outside:
Have adequate exterior lighting. A motion-sensitive light is recommended for backyards.
Trim trees and shrubs so that they cannot be used as hiding places for intruders.
Make sure your door hinges are on the inside.
Windows:
Most windows can be pinned for security.
Drill a 3/16" hole on a slight downward slant through the inside window frame and halfway into the outside frame - place a nail in the hole to secure the window.
Alarms:
An alarm system is excellent for home security. It provides peace of mind to homeowners, especially while on vacation. There is a wide variety of alarm systems on the market.
Make several inquiries to different companies for the best security system available to you.
If you have a home alarm system, use it! Activate your alarm system -- Alarm systems are only useful when you remember to activate them.
Many individuals have alarm systems but do not arm them because it is inconvenient. Many burglars know this and will not be deterred by a window sticker or sign indicating that the home has an alarm system.
If Your Home Is Broken Into:
If you come home to find an unexplained open/broken window or door:
Do not enter - the perpetrator may still be inside.
Use a neighbor's phone to call police.
Do not touch anything or clean up until the police have inspected for evidence.
Write down the license plate numbers of any suspicious vehicles.
Note the descriptions of any suspicious persons.
Other precautions you should take:
Never leave keys under doormats, flowerpots, mailboxes or other "secret" hiding places -- burglars know where to look for hidden keys.
Keep a detailed inventory of your valuable possessions, including a description of the items, date of purchase and original value, and serial numbers, and keep a copy in a safe place away from home -- this is a good precaution in case of fires or other disasters. Make a photographic or video record of valuable objects, heirlooms and antiques. Your insurance company can provide assistance in making and keeping your inventory.
Trim your shrubbery around your home to reduce cover for burglars.
Be a good neighbor. If you notice anything suspicious in your neighborhood, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Mark your valuables with your driver's license number with an engraver you can borrow from your precinct. Marked items are harder for a burglar to dispose of and easier for police to recover.
Form a Neighborhood Watch Group. We can help you work with your neighbors to improve security and reduce risk of burglary.
Consider installing a burglar alarm system.
Lebanon Police will also come and do a free security check on your residence. Call (541) 258-4339 to make an appointment.

Below is the updated list of Coos Bay Public Schools Public Meetings currently scheduled for the month of January 2015. All meetings are held at Milner Crest Education Center, 1255 Hemlock Ave., Coos Bay, unless otherwise noted. The schedule is subject to change.

January 12, 2015
* Regular School Board Meeting at 5:30 PM - note change in time. The agenda and packet are posted at the following link and are subject to change: http://cbd9.net/schoolboard/agendas

January 26, 2015
* Policy Committee at 9:30 AM @ Milner Crest
* Special School Board Meeting at 5:30 PM. The agenda and packet will be posted at the following link by January 23rd and are subject to change: http://cbd9.net/schoolboard/agendas

Go to http://cbd9.net/public-meetings-schedule to link to all the public meetings currently scheduled.

All Coos Bay School District Board Meetings are subject to the Public Meetings Law (ORS 192.610-192.710). The public is welcome to attend. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. Request for other accommodations should be made to Peggy Ahlgrim at 541-267-1310, 541-269-5366 (fax) or peggya@coos-bay.k12.or.us

Contacts:
Dawn Rae Granger, Superintendent, (541) 267-1309
Peggy Ahlgrim, Board Secretary, (541) 267-1310

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley reports that on January 5, 2014 his Detectives arrested 72-year old Larry Robert Morgan of Scio. Morgan was contacted at his residence in Scio and after further investigation, was arrested and charged with six counts of Sexual Abuse I.

Detectives and DHS received information about the abuse and conducted a joint investigation. The residence had been a foster home for children in the past, but over the last five years while Morgan lived there, it has not served in that capacity. The victims of the abuse are ages ten and eleven and were Morgan's adopted children.

Morgan was lodged in the Linn County Jail.

The Sheriff's Office is continuing the investigation and if anyone one has information they are encouraged to contact Detective Mike Rossiter 541-917-6682.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/2993/80926/Morgan.jpg

January 8, 2015 - Salem, Ore. - Every Friday from 5-7 p.m. beginning Friday, Jan. 9, anyone who buys a St. Patrick's Day Raffle ticket, receives a free $1 Megabucks ticket for the next day's Megabucks drawing. This two-hour window of opportunity is open every Friday until St. Patrick's Day Raffle tickets are gone.

The current Megabucks jackpot for Saturday, Jan. 10 is $6.1 million.

The St. Patrick's Day Raffle offers over 1,800 cash prizes. Each St. Patrick's Day ticket costs $10. Prizes for the St. Patrick's Day Raffle include:
- One $1 million top prize
- 300 prizes of $500
- 1,500 prizes of $100

The Lottery will release the winning numbers at 5 a.m. St. Patrick's Day - Tuesday, Mar. 17. To check the winning numbers for the St. Patrick's Day Raffle, players can go to www.oregonlottery.org or visit a participating Oregon Lottery retail location.

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. Prize winners of more than $50,000 should contact the Lottery office to schedule an appointment to claim their prize.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned over $9 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.

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SALEM--If you own a business--even a home-based business--Oregon law requires that you file an annual personal property tax return with your county assessor by March 1, 2015, unless you have been granted an extension or file for an extension by February 15.

Completed returns must include a detailed list of all business-related personal property, along with equipment purchase and lease dates, and original costs. Personal property includes office furniture, personal computers, easily-moveable machinery--even off-road vehicles or display cases--if they are used in the business. Business owners should also include leased equipment, such as copiers or power washers, explained Rick Schack, manager of the Property Tax Division's Support, Assistance, and Oversight section.

The county assessor calculates the tax due each year based on the personal property return. The tax owed on personal property is shown on property tax statements and is due November 15, 2015.

The assessor will cancel the tax due if the total personal property value is under a calculated cancellation threshold. The threshold for 2014 was $16,000. The 2015 threshold cannot be calculated until certain statistics are available in March. All business owners must file personal property returns, even if personal property value is less than the current cancellation threshold, Schack said.

If you're a business owner, you must file a return each year even if:

· You didn't receive a tax return from the county in which your property is located.

· The assessor cancelled your tax in prior years.

· You sold or closed your business during the year.

· You sold or disposed of your personal property.

If a business owner doesn't file, penalties from 5 to 50 percent of the taxes due may be assessed, depending on how late the return is filed.

For more information, including forms and a complete list of taxable personal property, visit www.oregon.gov/dor/ptd, or contact your county assessor's office.

Visit www.oregon.gov/dor to get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make tax payments; or call 1-800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish); 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon; or email, questions.dor@oregon.gov. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), call 1-800-886-7204.

Nature of Crime or Event: Oregon Impact DUII Enforcement
Date / Time Occurred: December 12th 2014- January 5th , 2015
Occurred Location: City Of Lebanon



Lebanon Police Department Releases Christmas/New Year's 2015 Crackdown Arrest Numbers


The Lebanon Police Department made 1 impaired-driving arrest during the recent crackdown on impaired driving," said Officer Travis Luttmer.
Law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon participated in this nationwide effort to get more impaired drivers off the street -- and made the 2015 crackdown count by saving lives that might otherwise be lost. In 2009 alone, 10,839 people died in crashes in which a driver, or motorcycle rider, was at or above the legal limit.
The Lebanon Police Department joined forces with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and other State and local law enforcement and highway safety partners in conducting the crackdown campaign, which featured high-visibility enforcement combined with a variety of outreach activities, including $14 million in paid national advertising.
The Lebanon Police Department conducted over 39 traffic stops during 3, 3 hour enforcement periods which resulted in 1 DUII arrest, 3 Driving While Suspended Drivers, and numerous other citations and warnings.

The Lebanon Police Department will be continuing enforcement patrols through the upcoming Super Bowl weekend and various other dates throughout 2015.

For more information, visit the High-Visibility Enforcement Campaign Headquarters at www.StopImpairedDriving.org.

Salem Police are launching a program which they hope will prepare them to save lives. Officers began training this week in the use of Naloxone, also known as Narcan, which can be administered to people who have overdosed on opiates such as heroin.

Naloxone, an opioid antagonist, temporarily counteracts the effects of opiates during overdose, providing an opportunity for emergency responders to get the overdosed person medical care.

The training is being conducted in partnership with Salem Fire Department Medics and Salem Police First Aid instructors during the Police Department's annual in-service training. At the conclusion of the training, every Salem patrol officer will be issued a Naloxone kit to carry when on-duty. Should an officer encounter someone believed to have overdosed on an opiate, the drug can be immediately administered to the person via nasal application.

In 2013. Salem Deputy Police Chief Jim Ferraris attended a police training conference where a briefing on Naloxone was conducted by members of the Quincy, Massachusetts Police Department. Upon returning to Salem, Chief Ferraris began working with Salem Police and Fire staff to develop a Naloxone program for Salem officers. "We want our officers to be prepared as they encounter drug affected people while working in our community. Saving just one life with Naloxone will be worth the time and effort of developing and implementing this program" said Chief Ferraris.

An abundance of heroin and an increasing availability of abused opiate prescription drugs in Oregon communities has resulted in the increased potential for overdoses to occur. Anyone experiencing a drug overdose or encountering someone experiencing an overdose should immediately call 911 for emergency medical care.

Governor's Domestic Violence Prevention and Response Task Force
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Oregon State Capitol
Governor's Conference Room (254)
Salem, Oregon

Call In: 888-204-5984 / Participant Code: 547086

Agenda for the January 14th Task Force meeting is attached.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/973/80912/January_Agenda_GDVPR_Task_Force.doc

On January 7, Oregon State Police troopers cited LEWIS for the crimes of DUII-alcohol, and Reckless Driving into Lane County Circuit Court.

No further information is available for release at this time. Additional inquiries may be directed to Lt. Lang Hinkle at the Springfield Area Command at 541-726-2536 ext. 218.

Oregon State Police troopers are continuing the investigation into Tuesday Afternoon's crash on highway 126E near milepost 11, in Cedar Flat; just east of Springfield.

Preliminary investigation indicates that at approximately 2:50 p.m., a westbound Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) fish delivery tanker driving on highway 126E was loaded with 11,000 Chinook salmon smolts and water and headed to the Row River near Cottage Grove where they were to be released. The fish were being transferred as a result of low water concerns at McKenzie Hatchery caused by floodgate malfunctions at Leaburg Dam, which provides water to the hatchery.

As the driver, identified as RAY C. LEWIS, 45, of Umpqua Oregon, was negotiating a curve the vehicle went off the roadway and crashed into a power pole and some trees. The truck overturned and spilled its contents at the roadside. All of the fish being transported died as a result of the crash.

LEWIS suffered facial and scalp lacerations and was transported to the hospital for treatment of other unknown injuries. Alcohol is being investigated as a contributing factor in this incident and additional investigation is pending. OSP is being assisted by the Lane County District Attorney's Office (LCDA).

Further inquiries regarding the fish transfer should be directed to Rick Swart, Public Information Officer for ODFW, at 971-673-6038 or Rick.Swart@state.or.us.

OSP was assisted at the scene by the Oregon Department of Transportation, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and McKenzie Fire and Rescue.


Attached Media Files: 2014-12/1002/80778/Fish_Truck_Spill_2.JPG , 2014-12/1002/80778/Fish_Truck_Spill_1.JPG

Date: January 14, 2015
Time: 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Location: Oregon State Library | Conference Room 102/103
250 Winter Street NE, Salem, OR 97301
Call-In: 1-877-273-4202; Room Number: 4978330

1.Call to Order and Roll Call
2.Public Comment
3.Draft Meeting Minutes for Approval
a.November 7, 2014
b.December 17, 2014

4.Residential Loan Program, Consent Calendar, Julie Cody and Lisa Nunnelle, OHCS
600 Ridgeview Court, Hood River 97031
4800 E Evans Creek Road, Rogue River 97537

5.Tax-Exempt Bond Issuance and Re-Funding Approval, Heather Pate and Janna Graham, OHCS
Ramona Apartments

6.Update on Columbia Knoll Apartments, Ryan Miller and Kimber Sexton, OHCS

7.2015 LIHTC NOFA Update & Recommendations - Julie Cody, OHCS
a. Proposed change to the definition of Preservation with respect to the set-aside
b. Proposed amount of proceeds available by Region.
c. Recommend an increase in maximum amount of gap funds for LIHTC projects.
d. Should we limit the number of applications and/or awards to a single sponsor?

8.Report of the Director

9. Report of the Chair


Adjourn State Housing Council Meeting

The Benton County Sheriff's Office would like to issue the following warning to all county residents concerning a telephone scam several citizens have reported in the last several weeks.
This scam begins when someone, posing as a deputy from the Sheriff's Office, contacts the victim via telephone. The deputy provides his name and a badge number in hopes of legitimizing the call and advises the victims that they are delinquent from jury duty and will be arrested immediately.
In order to avoid arrest, the deputy advises the victim that they can pay a fine. They are instructed to go to 7 Eleven and obtain a "Green Dot MoneyPak" reload card. The victim is also provided with a local telephone number to call. Once the victim has obtained the money order, they are instructed to call the number and provide the numbers located on the back of the money order.
The people promoting the scam will provide courtroom numbers, addresses, warrant numbers, etc. in an attempt to make the scam believable.
The public is reminded that this is not protocol of the state court system. This is a scam. The public should not provide personal identifying information over the telephone to the scammers and should immediately report any financial loss due to this scam to the Benton County Sheriff's Office at 541-766-6858.


PLEASE READ LOCAL SCAM WARNING
"Today we received an alarming call today and feel like we should pass the information on. One of our regular customers received a call from a man stating that he was from her heating and air conditioning company and that he'd be there for her appointment the following Monday. When she asked if he was from Hendrix Heating he told her "YES". She then said that her next scheduled appointment with Hendrix was not until January 16. At that point... the man hung up. We've heard about recent scams where thieves are representing themselves as heating and air conditioning or carpet cleaning companies, thereby gaining access to homes.

Also, a local Heating and Air Conditioning Company reported was used by a conman in order to try and steal money form a Benton County resident. The company issued the following statement:


Please be aware that unless you have prepaid maintenance contracts set up with us, we will not call proactively to schedule appointments. Please share this information especially with elderly friends and family members as these are the folks that may be being targeted more frequently."
In addition to Hendricks, Mikes Heating and Air Conditioning in Albany has also been affected. Mikes customers have also been receiving phone calls where the caller pretends to be from "their" heating company and scheduling duct cleanings or some other service. Some of the phone calls where from false numbers with a 503 area code prefix.
There has also been one incident where it was reported that a man came to the door of a customer in Brownsville. The suspect in this case told the customer if he doesn't schedule his next maintenance, he forfeits his contract. The suspect became demanding and intimidating; however the customer did not give in and eventually the suspect left.
Recent scammers have been calling customers or going door-to-door demanding special deposits, scheduling or verifying fictitious appointments, and falsely representing themselves as a legitimate business. Remember that legitimate field employees wear identification badges and they will not demand immediate payment for service or equipment.
Also remember, if you are in doubt that the caller or visitor represents your contract or even a legitimate company you should call the company on a number that you recognize or you can call your local Law Enforcement Agency.
Don't give out personal information. Be suspicious of anyone you don't know who asks for your Social Security number, birthdate, credit card number, bank account number, password, or other personal data.
At this time it is unknown if any other companies have been affected or falsely represented. In total there have been between 10 and 20 victims identified but the motive for these calls remains unknown. If you feel that you have been a victim of this scam please record all information that may be relevant to the suspect including name, phone number, or company they claim to be working for. This information can be given to your local Law Enforcement. If someone shows up at your residence and you feel threatened or are in fear for your safety call 911 immediately.


The Sheriff's Office is investigating. Anyone with futher information should contact the Sheriff's Office.

Colette S. Peters, Director of the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC), recently announced the appointment of Kim Brockamp as the agency's new Deputy Director, effective Jan. 19.

Ms. Brockamp is a 23-year DOC veteran. She began her career in 1991 as an Accounting Assistant and then worked in various other positions in Fiscal Services. Later, as a member of Facilities Services, she worked through the contentious prison siting process. In 2004, she became the Administrator of the Offender Information and Sentence Calculation Unit. Ms. Brockamp also served as the Operations Division Policy Manager, where she was invaluable in guiding the agency's largest division through the biennial budget process, rulemaking, and policy development and implementation. After two biennia of serving as a member of the Management Bargaining Team, Ms. Brockamp was selected as the Assistant Director for the Human Resources Division in 2007. In 2012, Ms. Brockamp was asked to lead Coffee Creek Correctional Facility as Superintendent and, in 2013, she was asked to lead the Offender Management and Rehabilitation Division as Assistant Director.

Ms. Brockamp has broad DOC experience and expertise in organizational development, budgeting, teambuilding, labor relations, and stakeholder relations which makes her uniquely suited for the Deputy Director position. She is known for caring deeply about DOC and the people in it, and she looks forward to her new role.

"Ms. Brockamp's long-standing commitments to public safety and to her colleagues are unwavering," stated Director Peters, "I am extremely pleased to have her at my side."

DOC employs 4,600 staff members at 14 institutions, two community corrections offices, and several centralized support facilities throughout the state. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of over 14,600 adults sentenced to more than 12 months of incarceration, and direct or indirect supervision of 31,000 offenders on felony supervision in the community. DOC is recognized nationally among correctional agencies for providing adults in custody with the cognitive, education, and job skills needed to become productive citizens when they transition back to their communities.


####


Attached Media Files: Kim Brockamp

It was no small task, when Deputy Ben McGowan set out to implement new recycling programs at the Marion County Jail. But, that is exactly what he and the deputies coined the "Green Team" have accomplished. Not only have they created a viable program but they have managed to save a substantial amount of money in waste disposal, brought money into inmate welfare programs and even managed to give back to people in need.

Currently the Marion County Jail is taking part in the following recycling programs, made possible by both inmates and staff.

Bulk Milk: The jail has switched from pint sized milk cartons to bulk milk and that has reduced waste by 36,400 cartons per year.

Trash Can Liners: Laundry workers stopped delivering clothing, mop heads and other laundry items in plastic garbage can liner bags. In addition, garbage cans deemed unnecessary were removed and are no longer being used. This simple change has saved approximately 22,630 bags, a savings of roughly $1,365.10 per year. The bags saved in one year would stretch end to end just over 12 miles, or if laid out flat would cover two football fields.

Trash sorting: Trash sorting in and around the jail campus began in August 2013. Inmate workers sort daily trash captures approximately 90 gallons of recyclable material per day. When the sorting first began, deputies saw the weight of our trash drop from around 8 tons per month to 7 per month, and now 2.3 tons per month.

In December 2013, the program expanded and began removing food waste. This change diverts approximately 6,700 pounds of food per month from the landfill. Instead of filling up a landfill, the food is being composted and reused. Removing food waste has netted a $300 per month savings to our disposal costs.

Tin Cans: Inmates and kitchen staff are saving, cleaning and flattening tin cans that come from food preparation. The cans are collected and returned to a local metal recycling company. The funds generated by this process are deposited into the inmate welfare fund. This fund is utilized for items and programs that directly benefit the inmates. Tin cans net a profit of approximately $150/yr. Recently inmates began taking apart damaged or broken office equipment that cannot be salvaged. All of the metal is collected and the remaining materials are reused or thrown away when they cannot be recycled.

Soap Recycling: While sorting the daily trash, inmates collect the unused bars of soap that get thrown away by inmates. The soap is collected and turned in to Marion County Environmental Services. Environmental Services sends the soap to an organization in California that purifies, cleans and remolds the soap. Once it is ready the soap is sent to third world Countries or areas that are in need.

Each shipment of soap collected is approximately 30-40 pounds of waste diverted from a landfill.

Battery Recycling: Although the amount of batteries collected may not be significant by volume, the impact on the environment cannot be stressed enough. Collecting Batteries to be recycled also helps reduce the amount of weight in our compactor.

Pallets: Deputies began collecting pallets from deliveries made to the facility, in August of 2013. Much like the tin cans, the pallets are sold to a local company. This process generates approximately $1,000.00 per year that is placed into the inmate welfare fund.

Plastic Bags: Plastic laundry detergent barrels and clear plastic bags used to hold inmate property while in custody, are given to a local company named Agri Plas. Agri Plas uses the unwanted items to create reusable products. This process increases space within our trash compactor which in turn results in fewer dumps.

Since 2013, the Marion County Jail has saved approximately $9,776.00 in dumping fees and diverted 112 tons of trash from entering a landfill. Thanks to Deputy McGowan, our staff and Marion County Jail inmates, average disposal costs have gone from $900/dump in 2012 to $256/dump in 2014. In the spring of 2014 Deputy McGowan was awarded the recycler of the year by Marion County Public Works Environmental Services at the 2014 Mid?Willamette Valley Green Awards.

For a more in-depth look or tour of our recycling programs, please contact PIO Sergeant Chris Baldridge.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1294/80896/IMG_3659.JPG , 2015-01/1294/80896/IMG_3656.JPG

Portland, OR - A feature-length documentary film highlighting the life and legacy of the late Governor and United States Senator Mark O. Hatfield will be aired on Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB) on Monday, January 19, 2015 from 10 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. The film, The Gentleman of the Senate: Oregon's Mark Hatfield, uses extensive interviews with former staff and Senate colleagues of Hatfield to tell the story of his public service career. The Oregon Historical Society was proud to donate footage from its extensive archives to assist in the making of the film.

"Senator Mark Hatfield's legacy as a compassionate leader is considered one of Oregon's greatest gifts to this country and the world," said Rick Dancer, an executive producer of the project and long-time TV journalist from Eugene. "The story of Mark Hatfield is about his approach to leadership, the lives he influenced, and his involvement in iconic moments in history. There are important lessons here for today's leaders and the citizens who elect them. I am thrilled that OPB has chosen to broadcast the film, thereby sharing the Senator's life and legacy with as large an audience as possible."

The film was produced by The Hatfield Project, a 501(c)(3) organization created to chronicle Senator Hatfield's career and legacy. The film has previously been shown at special events at Portland State University, Willamette University, and the Oregon Historical Society. The Hatfield Project also anticipates donating copies of the film to schools and public libraries in Oregon. The film's executive producers are Rick Dancer, Kevin Curry, and Devon Lyon.



About the Oregon Historical Society
For more than a century, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state's collective memory, preserving a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms & website (www.ohs.org), 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 rich as Oregon's cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/2861/80875/1967.jpg

SALEM, Ore. (Jan. 6, 2015) -- In keeping with its commitment to give back to the community, Harry Ritchie's is holding its first ever Great Exchange Event, which runs through the end of January. During this special event, customers can bring in donations to any one of Harry Ritchie's 15 stores and receive a 10 percent discount on their jewelry purchase. Each store has selected a community-based organization to team up with for the promotion. In Salem, Harry Ritchie's has selected Liberty House Child Abuse Assessment Center.

"We are thrilled to be the recipient of donations from Harry Ritchie's customers," said
Alison Kelley, CEO, Liberty House. "The children we serve have many needs, including Band-Aids, diapers and baby wipes, but whatever customers can donate will certainly be appreciated."

"For almost 60 years, Harry Ritchie's has been an important part of the communities in which we have stores," says Tobey Ritchie, Director of Marketing. "The Great Exchange provides an awesome opportunity for customers to help make a difference. And giving them a discount on their jewelry purchase is our way of saying 'Thank you' for sharing Harry Ritchie's commitment to the community."

While the Great Exchange ends Jan. 31, customers can still use their 10 percent discount on a jewelry purchase through Feb. 15. Liberty House has placed a donation barrel inside the Harry Ritchie's store, located at Salem Center, 401 Center Street, Suite 269. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/HarryRitchiesJewelers. To learn more about other ways to donate to Liberty House, visit http://www.libertyhousecenter.org and click on "How to Help, Make a Donation."

About Harry Ritchie's: Harry Ritchie's, a family-owned jeweler, opened its first store in 1956 in Eugene, Oregon. Today, there are 15 Harry Ritchie's in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and California. Harry Ritchie's offers a wide selection of jewelry and collections from famous brands and customer favorites, including, LeVian, Chamilia, Tacori, and Moon and Lola. The company is headquartered in Eugene, Oregon.

ABOUT LIBERTY HOUSE: Liberty House is provides specialized assessment services for children referred for concerns of abuse or neglect and offers a centralized place for children to receive medical and interview services. Liberty House serves children of all ages -- from infants through age 18. Services are voluntary and free of charge. Liberty House also provides community education and information about the issue of child abuse and the protection of children. Over one-half of Liberty House's annual funding comes from charitable contributions by individuals, businesses and foundations. Liberty House is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization. It is a safe and special place for children. When there are concerns about children who may have been hurt by abuse or neglect, Liberty House is here to help. Liberty House is located at 2685 4th St. NE in Salem, 503-540-0288, www.libertyhousecenter.org

# # #

SALEM, Oregon - Senior Enlisted Advisor for the National Guard Bureau, Chief Master Sgt. Mitchell O. Brush, is visiting the Oregon National Guard this week, Jan. 4-7, 2015. Brush is touring both Air and Army National Guard facilities throughout the state and hosting town hall meetings with Oregon Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen to address current issues facing enlisted military members and to share the National Guard Bureau's vision and way ahead for the National Guard as a whole.

Brush advises the Chief of the National Guard Bureau on all matters affecting enlisted Airmen and Soldiers throughout the National Guard in all states and U.S. territories. His biography is available for reference here: http://www.nationalguard.mil/Leadership/SEA.aspx

More high-resolution photos are available for download at the Oregon Military Department Flickr page: https://www.flickr.com/photos/oregonmildep/sets/72157649729342709/

Photo Captions:
150105-Z-CH590-071: Chief Master Sgt. Mitchell O. Brush (left), Senior Enlisted Advisor for the National Guard Bureau, meets members of the 125th Special Tactics Squadron during his tour of the Portland Air National Guard Base, in Portland, Oregon, Jan. 5, 2015. Brush received a briefing about the 125th mission and some of the equipment used by Airmen in the unit. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. John Hughel, 142nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs)

150105-Z-PL933-019: Chief Master Sgt. Mitchell O. Brush (right), the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the National Guard Bureau, visits the 41st Infantry Division Armed Forces Readiness Center in Clackamas, Oregon, Jan. 5, 2015. During his visit, Brush held a town hall meeting with members of the Oregon National Guard to address current issues facing enlisted military members and to share the National Guard Bureau's vision and way ahead for the National Guard. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Jason van Mourik, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

150105-Z-OT568-002: Chief Master Sgt. Mitchell O. Brush (center), the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the National Guard Bureau, receives a briefing on Oregon National Guard operations in the Joint Operations Center at the Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Oregon, Jan. 5, 2015. Brush also held a town hall meeting with members of the Oregon National Guard, addressing current issues facing enlisted military members and to share the National Guard Bureau's vision and way ahead. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class April Davis, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

150105-Z-ZZ999-005: Chief Master Sgt. Mitchell O. Brush (center), Senior Enlisted Advisor for National Guard Bureau, poses for a photo with members of the Oregon National Guard in front of an HH-60M Blackhawk helicopter, Jan. 5, during a tour of the Larry Deibert Army Aviation Support Facility #1 in Salem, Oregon. The flight facility tour was part of several visits Brush made to Oregon National Guard facilities throughout the state. (Photo by Christopher L. Ingersoll, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/962/80873/150105-Z-PL933-019.jpg , 2015-01/962/80873/150105-Z-ZZ999-005.JPG , 2015-01/962/80873/150105-Z-OT568-002.JPG , 2015-01/962/80873/150105-Z-CH590-071.jpg

Estuarine shore lands will be managed by state as "special stewardship" lands

Charleston - At a public foreclosure auction in October the Department of State Lands, in partnership with the South Slough National Estuarine Reserve, purchased 240 acres in the Coos estuary. Known as the Indian Point parcel, the land will connect to the South Slough's northern-most boundary, and become part of nearly 600 acres of protected estuarine wetland.

"This purchase is something we've had our eye on since the 1990s when the owners first approached the South Slough," said Reserve manager Gary Cooper. "We had begun negotiations with the owners earlier this year when we learned the parcel was facing foreclosure. We obviously are very pleased that we placed the winning bid," he said.

Cooper said the bid price of $980,001 was $280,000 below the appraised value of the land.

Funds to purchase Indian Point were obtained through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program. The grant application was submitted by the Department of State Lands, Coos Watershed Association and the South Coast Land Conservancy. Matching funds were provided by the Gustafson family's bequest to the South Slough Reserve for land acquisition.

The grant stipulates that the acquisition - called the "South Slough Shorelands Project" - must support efforts to maintain the integrity of the South Slough estuary and to protect it from uses and activities that would alter the ecosystem and natural processes.

The Department of State Lands, which serves as the South Slough's state administrative partner, will maintain interagency agreements with cooperating organizations to manage and oversee the project. The Reserve is one of 28 estuarine reserves overseen by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The Indian Point parcel consists of about 240 acres of estuarine shore lands including tidal estuarine wetlands, forested uplands and forested fresh-water wetlands, located approximately 1/2 mile southeast of Charleston. The majority of the property's boundary, about 1.5 miles, fronts and forms the shoreline of the South Slough and Joe Ney tidal inlets of the Coos estuary.

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EMBARGOED UNTIL 9 A.M. TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2015

January 6, 2015

State data show areas of Oregon at high risk for dangerous radon levels

State program urges home testing during January's Radon Action Month

New Oregon radon data show that many regions of the state are at moderate risk of having high radon levels, with several pockets of high-risk areas around the Willamette Valley, and in eastern and southern Oregon.

But people can take steps to reduce their exposure to radon, including testing their homes for the gas and hiring a professional to reduce it to a safe level.

Oregon's areas of highest risk for radon are in Scappoose, Banks and North Plains, as well as Boring, Parkdale, Dundee, Turner and La Grande, according to the data published on the Oregon Radon Program website, www.healthoregon.org/radon. A large swath of Portland, particularly in the north, northeastern and southeastern parts of the city, also was found to be at high risk.

The Radon Program collects radon test data from test kit manufacturers in an effort to understand which areas of the state have the potential for high radon levels. It allows the program to identify areas where educational outreach efforts need to be focused. The data, initially published two years ago, was recently updated with additional radon test data from around the state.

"The take-home message is that every home needs to be tested, regardless of where it is located," says Brett Sherry, Radon Program coordinator at the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division. "You may have the only house on the block with elevated radon levels."

Radon is odorless, tasteless and invisible. It is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes up from the ground and is drawn into buildings, where it can build up to dangerous levels. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that radon is responsible for more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the United States. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. after cigarette smoking, and the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.

The Radon Program is joining the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in urging Oregonians to take action and test their homes for radon during January as part of National Radon Action Month.

Testing homes for radon is simple and inexpensive. Radon test kits can be purchased at local hardware and home improvement stores, or online from radon test kit supply companies. Many test kits are priced between $15 and $25. Radon problems can be fixed by qualified contractors for a cost similar to that of many common home repairs, such as painting or having a new water heater installed. The best time to test for radon is during the heating season, when the windows and doors are closed up tight. This is when you would expect to find the highest radon levels in your home.

"Radon has been detected in homes all across Oregon. The only way to know if your home has high radon levels is to test," Sherry says.

Radon levels vary throughout Oregon depending on the underlying geology. Residents can see what levels have been detected in their neighborhoods by visiting the Radon Program website at www.healthoregon.org/radon, which lists radon test data by city and Zip code.

There are many cities and Zip codes in the state for which the Radon Program has little to no data. In an effort to get a better understanding of the radon potential across the state, the Radon Program is offering a free radon test kit to residents whose homes are in Zip codes with fewer than 20 radon test results. Residents can visit the Radon Program website to see if they are eligible.

Those living in Zip codes where there are fewer than 20 test results can send an email to radon.program@state.or.us to receive instructions on how to get a free test kit, which will be provided while supplies last.

For more information on radon, radon testing and mitigation, radon-resistant new construction, or to order a test kit online, call the Oregon Radon Program at 971-673-0440 or go towww.healthoregon.org/radon or visit the EPA's website at www.epa.gov/radon/nram.

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5:50 pm., Monday 01/05/14

Traffic Unit investigators have released the name of the pedestrian who was struck and killed in a traffic crash which occurred at 5:27pm Friday, 12/26/14 on Summer St. NE near "E" St. NE. The deceased pedestrian has been identified as Michael Allen Johnson, 63 yrs.,
(dob: 02/25/1951), a white male adult. All avenues in attempting to notify next of kin have been unsuccessful. Should anyone have any information concerning Michael Johnson's next of kin or a relative are asked to call the Salem Police Traffic Unit at 503-588-6171.
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9:00pm., Friday, 12/26/14

At approx. 5:27pm., Friday, 12/26/14; Salem Police responded to a vehicle vs pedestrian traffic crash on Summer St. NE near E St NE. On arrival of police, fire and medics it was determined that the pedestrian was deceased at scene.

The name of the deceased is being with held pending notification to next of kin.

The driver of the vehicle was identified as Guadalupe GARCIA, 42yrs of Salem. Garcia was operating a 2014 Chevrolet Camaro.

The investigation revealed that Garcia was traveling south on Summer St. NE, which is a two lane, 30mph, one way street, near E St. NE. As Garcia continued driving south of E St. NE approx 25 yds., the pedestrian walked out into the path of her vehicle and was struck.

Garcia remained at the crash scene and is cooperating with Traffic Control Unit investigators. There is no indication of any impairment of Garcia, the driver. Nor is there any indication of excessive speed involved.

Summer St. NE was re-opened for normal traffic flow at 9:00pm.

Once next of kin notification of the deceased has been made, an update press release will be sent out.

On New Year's Eve, at about 7:30 p.m., Deputy Jeremy Landers and his K9 partner Misty were patrolling the streets of Marion County. That is when they crossed paths with a black, 1994, Infinity Q45 and its two occupants. After stopping the vehicle for a traffic offense in the 200 block of Lancaster Drive NE, Deputy Landers became suspicious of the pair.

The female driver of the vehicle had no identification and appeared to be lying about her name. To compound the issue the passenger, David Contreras, age 43 of Salem was wanted on an outstanding warrant for Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

After calling for backup Deputy Landers arrested Mr. Contreras without incident. After taking custody of Mr. Contreras, Deputy Landers began to focus on the driver. Without being able to positively identify the driver, Deputy Landers had no choice but to arrest her for failing to carry and present her license. After being arrested the female was searched and .22 caliber bullets were found in her pocket.

The finding of the ammunition prompted the female to confess her identity and the fact that she had a concealed firearm under the driver's seat of her vehicle. Deputies located the .22 caliber handgun, under the driver's seat and seized it as evidence. Deputy Landers, wasn't done, he broke out Misty the drug sniffing K9 who immediately alerted that there were drugs inside of the vehicle.

After searching the vehicle Deputy Landers and Misty seized, 5.8 ounces of methamphetamine, one additional firearm, a stun gun, a set of metal knuckles and $390 cash. The driver, Stefani Anthony, age 27, of Lebanon was arrested and lodged at the Marion County Jail for the charges of Failure to Carry and Present, Giving False Information to the Police, Delivery and Possession of Methamphetamine and being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Her next court date is 01/13 at 8:30 a.m.


Attached Media Files: Misty , Evidence , Anthony , Contreras

Oregon State Police (OSP) Superintendent Richard Evans Jr. has announced the promotion or reassignment of several key agency personnel, including the next Deputy Superintendent. The following promotions/transfers were effective December 1, 2014.

Deputy Superintendent:
Patrick Ashmore has been selected to replace Deputy Superintendent Maureen Bedell following her retirement in December. Ashmore, age 53, previously held the rank of Major, overseeing the Police Services Bureau, which encompasses the Patrol, Fish & Wildlife, Criminal and Forensics Divisions as well as the State Medical Examiner. Ashmore has over 28 years of experience with OSP, holding positions in the agency's Patrol and Criminal Divisions, including special assignments in the Drug Enforcement Section.

Major - Police Services Bureau:
Andy Heider, age 38, has been promoted from Northwest Region Captain to Major, Police Services Bureau, taking over from Deputy Superintendent Ashmore. Heider has worked for OSP for over 19 years and has held positions in the agency's Patrol and Fish & Wildlife Divisions, including specialty assignments in the Special Investigations Unit of the Fish & Wildlife Division.

Northwest Region Captain:
Captain Jeff Hershman, age 44, has worked for OSP for over 20 years. Hershman was reassigned from his previous role as Criminal Division Captain to replace Major Heider as the Northwest Region Captain in Salem. Hershman was promoted to Captain in 2014 and has served in the Patrol and Criminal Divisions and worked in the Office of Professional Standards (OPS).

Criminal Investigations Division Captain:
Terri Davie, age 46, was promoted to the rank of Captain and assigned to head the Department's Criminal Investigations Division, replacing Captain Jeff Hershman. Davie has held positions in the Patrol and Criminal Divisions and her most recent assignment was as Lieutenant, overseeing the Oregon State Athletic Commission section within OSP. Davie has served as a Crisis Negotiations Team member on the Oregon State Police SWAT team for over 5 years and was the Capitol Mall Patrol Office Station Commander.

East Region Captain:
Captain Rob Edwards, age 45, was reassigned from Southwest Region Captain to East Region Captain following the retirement of Captain Dave Macmaniman. Captain Edwards has worked for OSP for 21 years and held various assignments in the Patrol and Criminal Divisions, including the Drug Enforcement Section, and spent 13 years on the agency's Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT).

Southwest Region Captain:
Captain Ted Phillips, age 47, is a 24-year member of the Oregon State Police and was reassigned from his previous position as Forensic Services Division Director (Captain) to the Southwest Region Captain, replacing Captain Rob Edwards. Captain Phillips has worked in the Patrol and Criminal Divisions and served on the Department's SWAT team and Mobile Response Team (MRT). Captain Phillips worked in the agency's Drug Enforcement Section prior to his promotion to Captain.

Over the holiday period extending from, December 21st to January 4th, deputies with the Marion County Sheriff's Office and our Traffic Safety Team stepped up their patrols, focusing on intoxicated drivers. During their patrols deputies contacted 872 drivers, issued 24 citations to suspended drivers, 13 citations to uninsured motorists, 3 citations for careless driving and 3 citations for reckless driving.

In addition deputies arrested 13 drivers for operating their vehicles under the influence of an intoxicant (DUII). The Sheriff's Office is pleased to report there were no fatalities on our roadways during the holidays. Deputies will conduct similar operations throughout the year thanks to grants made possible by our partners at the Oregon State Sheriff's Association and the Oregon Department of Transportation.


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Starting today and carrying through January 1st, the Marion County Sheriff's Office Traffic Safety Team will be stepping up their patrols. Deputies will be working all hours of the day and night focusing primarily on impaired drivers. These patrols are made possible by grants provided to the Sheriff's Office from their partners' at the Oregon State Sheriff's Association and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, In 2012, 239 child passengers (under age 15) were killed in drunk driving crashes - representing 20 percent of all child traffic fatalities. Of those, more than half (52 percent) were passengers in a vehicle with the drunk driver.

Pictured is a DUII arrest from 11/29/14. Instead of pulling to the right the driver, drove over the sidewalk and parked on the grass at Red Lobster in Salem. Traffic Safety Team Sergeant Todd Moquin stated, "I want all drivers on the roadway over the holiday weekend to experience safe and happy travels. So please if you are going to drink, don't drive."


Attached Media Files: DUII

The Oregon Heritage Commission is offering grants for qualified museums to support museum collections, education and heritage tourism. Awards typically range between $1,000 and $8,000, and occasionally higher. Qualifying museums can apply for a variety of projects including archival boxes, records documentation, exhibits, brochures, school programs and more.

While the grant applications are online, they are simple and there is plenty of support.

"Our goal is to support museums of all sizes, all over the state in their valuable work. We provide assistance in the application process," notes Kuri Gill, the grants program coordinator.

Carla Burnside of the Harney County Historical Society recently noted the importance and ease of the grant for their quilt documentation and storage project. "The process of applying for the grant was very easy, she said. "It will help us preserve important textiles in our collection."

Oregon Heritage grants programs staff is happy to discuss projects and review applications in advance. There will be grant workshops on project planning and grant writing. A two-hour workshop will be in Salem on Feb. 3. A one-hour webinar will be available on Feb. 5.

The Heritage Commission is comprised of nine people representing Oregon's heritage and geographical diversity who have been appointed by the Governor. There are nine advisory representatives from state agencies and statewide organizations. The commission's mission is to secure, sustain, and enhance Oregon's heritage by ensuring coordination of heritage initiatives by public and private organizations; advocacy on its behalf; education of the public about its extent and value; and promotion and celebration of its diversity.

To learn more about the grants, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.Gill@oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

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The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries is offering grants for qualified historic cemeteries. The annual grants fund projects that preserve historic cemeteries. Projects funded in the past include marker repair workshops, fencing, signs, interpretive panels and brochures, security lighting, access improvements, records management and more.

Awards typically range between $1,000 and $4,000, but have been higher. Anyone can apply for a grant. While the grant applications are online, they are simple and commission staff can provide support.

"Our goal is to preserve Oregon's historic cemeteries, so we try to make it easy for people to access funds to do that while ensuring the funds are appropriately used," notes Kuri Gill, historic cemeteries program coordinator.

Patricia McCracken with Winchester Elementary School mentioned the assistance on her grant report. "We were new to filling out grants, staff was extremely helpful when we called," she said.

There will be grant workshops on project planning and grant writing. A two-hour workshop will be Feb. 3 in Salem. A one-hour webinar will be available on Feb. 5.

State law established the seven-member commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. To learn more about the grants or visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.Gill@oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

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The State Historic Preservation Office is offering grants for work on historic properties and for archaeology projects. The annual grants fund up to $20,000 in matching funds for preservation projects.

The Preserving Oregon Grant can fund preservation of historic buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Work may include non-maintenance preservation like window repair, roof work, foundation projects, and plumbing and electrical needs. It can also fund significant work contributing toward identifying, preserving and/or interpreting archaeological sites.

The Diamonds in the Rough grants help restore or reconstruct the facades of buildings that have been heavily altered over the years. The grant's purpose is to return the buildings to their historic appearance and potentially qualify them for historic register designation (local or national).

Preservation office staff is happy to talk with applicants about potential grant projects and review applications. There will be grant workshops on project planning and grant writing. A two-hour workshop will be in Salem on Feb. 3. A one-hour webinar will be available on Feb. 5. To learn more about the grants and workshops visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.Gill@oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will hold a public meeting for a proposed Oregon Scenic Bikeway at 5:30 pm. Jan. 27 at the Port Orford Public Library's Freedom of Speech room, located at 555 20th St., Port Orford.

The proposed 61-mile-long Wild Rivers Coast Scenic Bikeway starts at Battle Rock Park and passes through the town of Port Orford, Cape Blanco State Park, Elk River Road, Port Orford Heads State Park and Paradise Point State Park. The proposed bikeway uses existing roads.

The meeting agenda will consist of a short presentation on the Oregon Scenic Bikeway Program and information on the proposed Wild Rivers Coast Scenic Bikeway followed by questions from the audience.

Public comment on the proposed bikeway will be taken at the meeting. Written public comment will be accepted both before and after the meeting until the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission acts on the proposed designation. Comments will be presented to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission before the commission votes on designation.

Comments about the proposed bikeway can be sent to Alex Phillips at alex.phillips@oregon.gov or to:
Oregon Parks and Rec. Dept.
ATTN: Alex Phillips
725 Summer St NE, Suite C
Salem OR 97301-1266


Attached Media Files: news release

The American Red Cross Cascades Region is assisting two Oregon families after residential fires Jan. 4.

Two adults and three children were displaced by a fire in the 100 block of E. 49th Avenue in Eugene, Lane County. The Red Cross provided help with lodging.

Two adults were displaced by a fire in the 3800 block of Big George Road in Cave Junction, Josephine County. The Red Cross provided help with lodging, food, clothing, seasonal clothing, shoes, comfort kits and information on Disaster Heath Services and Mental Health Services.

The American Red Cross Cascades Region is assisting one adult displaced by a Jan. 3 residential fire in the 1900 block of Garfield Street in Eugene, Lane County. This single family fire affected 1 adult. Red Cross provided help with lodging, food, clothing, seasonal clothing, shoes, comfort kits and information about Disaster Health Services and Disaster Mental Health Services.

On January 2, at approximately 6:03 p.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers responded to a two vehicle crash on US HWY 101 near MP 130.5 that closed the highway to all traffic for approximately 7 hours. The investigation is continuing but preliminary information indicated a grey, 1991 Mazda pickup, being driven by 27 year-old RAYMOND DAVID, of Otis, was traveling northbound at a high rate of speed and passing in no passing zones and around corners. Near milepost 131, DAVID passed another vehicle and began to fish tail. A southbound, 2009 Sterling tractor trailer (loaded with frozen foods), driven by STEPHEN JOHNSON, 57, from Ridgefield, Washington, was hit when the Mazda lost control and collided with the right front portion of the tractor- trailer. DAVID was ejected from the vehicle. He was transported to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital, Good Samaritan in Corvallis, and then to Legacy Emmanuel in Portland. JOHNSON was not injured and has cooperated with investigators at the scene.

The Mazda pick-up came to rest in the southbound lane of travel and the tractor and trailer came to rest sideways in the highway blocking all lanes of travel. As a result of the crash, 100 gallons of diesel spilled onto the roadway and into the nearby ravine.

Oregon State Police is the lead agency but was assisted by Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Depoe Bay Fire, ODOT, Lincoln County Major Crash Team (made up of Lincoln City Police Department, Newport Police Department, Lincoln County DA, and Lincoln County Sheriff's Office), and Lincoln County District Attorney's Office. The hazardous material was cleaned up by Northwest Firefighters.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2015-01/1002/80817/IMG_4122.JPG , 2015-01/1002/80817/IMG_4202[1].JPG