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Eugene/Spring/Rose/Alb/Corv News Releases for Thu. Mar. 28 - 12:44 pm
Police & Fire
Crews Respond To Car Fire At Springfield Apartment
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/22/24 4:57 PM
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Springfield, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a car fire at an apartment complex in Springfield Friday afternoon.  Crews were called to 1890 M St for a pickup on fire.  Residents quick thinking worked to keep the fire in check while Engine 4’s 2 minute response time ensured the fire did not damage the apartments. 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170990/IMG_20240322_164705_245.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170990/IMG_20240322_164705_056.jpeg

Firefighters Extinguish Springfield Structure Fire (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/22/24 2:14 PM
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Springfield, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire is on scene of a structure fire at 2063 L St in Springfield this morning.  Firefighters were alerted by a neighbor who had been smelling burning plastic and when they went to find the source, they noticed smoke pouring out of a garage.  Arriving crews found fire in a detached garage that was being used as a dwelling.  The fire attack was slowed by the amount of belongings within the space, but Firefighters were able to prevent extension to the home.  The occupants were not in the garage at the time of the fire, but a search by Firefighters did locate several deceased pets.  The cause is under investigation. The current housing crisis continues to push people to live in alternative living situations.  It is important to understand that garages, outbuildings and other shelters are not designed/regulated with occupancy in mind, meaning they lack design features that slow/contain fire, allow for safe escape from fire or alerting devices to warn of fire.  Our primary mission at Eugene Springfield Fire is to save lives regardless of the space you occupy.  With this in mind, if you or someone you care about has to resort to alternative shelter, please take extra precautions for fire safety.  Smoke detectors are a must, electrical safety is imperative, and anything with a spark/flame should be avoided in the space (smoking, open flame cooking and heating devices).      




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170970/IMG_2718.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170970/IMG_2719.jpeg

Firefighters Extinguish Springfield Structure Fire (Photo)
Eugene Springfield Fire - 03/22/24 6:54 AM
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Springfield, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire is on scene of a structure fire at 2063 L St in Springfield this morning.  Firefighters were alerted by a neighbor who had been smelling burning plastic and when they went to find the source, they noticed smoke pouring out of a garage.  Arriving crews found fire in a detached garage that was being used as a dwelling.  The fire attack was slowed by the amount of belongings within the space, but Firefighters were able to prevent extension to the home.  The occupants were not in the garage at the time of the fire, but a search by Firefighters did locate several deceased pets.  The cause is under investigation. The current housing crisis continues to push people to live in alternative living situations.  It is important to understand that garages, outbuildings and other shelters are not designed/regulated with occupancy in mind, meaning they lack design features that slow/contain fire, allow for safe escape from fire or alerting devices to warn of fire.  Our primary mission at Eugene Springfield Fire is to save lives regardless of the space you occupy.  With this in mind, if you or someone you care about has to resort to alternative shelter, please take extra precautions for fire safety.  Smoke detectors are a must, electrical safety is imperative, and anything with a spark/flame should be avoided in the space (smoking, open flame cooking and heating devices).      




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/4466/170956/IMG_2718.jpeg , 2024-03/4466/170956/IMG_2719.jpeg

FBI Portland Division Now Accepting Applications for the FBI's Teen Academy (Photo)
FBI - Oregon - 03/28/24 9:49 AM
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PORTLAND, OREGON – Have you ever wanted to be part of a SWAT Team? Or fingerprint a suspect? Or learn how to catch a cyber-criminal? Then consider participating in the FBI Teen Academy.

The FBI Teen Academy program provides an excellent opportunity for rising high school juniors and seniors to learn about exciting careers in law enforcement within the FBI and beyond. Applicants chosen for the program actively engage with FBI agents and leaders in the Bureau to learn about case studies, crime prevention, evidence gathering, and investigative techniques related to criminal activity. The Teen Academy allows students to delve deeply into levels of law enforcement unavailable to them in a general classroom setting.

"Last year this office received a record number of applicants for the FBI’s Teen Academy, and we are excited to host them again this year,” said Aubree M. Schwartz, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. "This is a unique opportunity for these teens to see how the FBI fits into the greater Department of Justice. They will interact with FBI Special Agents and learn how the FBI conducts investigations, from interviewing to evidence gathering and analysis, using deductive reasoning and logic-based skills. This week-long program is an excellent introduction into the field of federal law enforcement and will hopefully inspire the next generation of FBI employees."

Students learn about how criminals are captured, hear from FBI agents about actual cases, and learn how to raise their self-awareness online and watch for cyber-predators. Graduates of the Teen Academy program develop a keen understanding of how the FBI interacts with local law enforcement agencies and how participants can raise crime prevention awareness in their communities. In addition, hands-on instruction by FBI experts and other law enforcement agents allows students to understand the importance of communication between national and local agencies. 

Teen Academy members engage in group activities ranging from small group exercises to hands-on simulations. As a result, students learn valuable life skills and increase their knowledge and understanding of how law enforcement agencies interact around the country.

Participation is free to the applicants chosen, and volunteer organizations provide supplies for the events. 

Applicants must be rising juniors or seniors in high school in the state of Oregon or Southwest Washington. Attendees will need to provide their own transportation to and from the FBI Portland Field Office. 

To Apply:

FBI Portland is currently accepting applications for its 2024 Teen Academy. The session will take place Monday, July 15 to Thursday, July 18, 2024.

Submit your application to each.pd@fbi.gov">outreach.pd@fbi.gov by Friday, April 26, 2024.

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https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/portland-teen-academy-application-2024.pdf/view           

 

Interviews with a former Teen Academy graduate, who is now an FBI Portland employee, available upon request. 

 




Attached Media Files: 2023 Attendees Photo , Team Building , Evidence Collecting , Graduation Ceremony , Daily Fitness , Fingerprinting , Fingerprinting , Casting Shoe Prints , Bomb Tech Suit , SWAT Demonstration , Classroom

LCSO Case #24-1571 -- Traffic Stop Leads to Another Large Fentanyl Seizure (Photo)
Lane Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/27/24 2:40 PM
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On March 26th, 2024, Lane County Sheriff’s deputies conducted a traffic stop near the 1800 block of Franklin Blvd. During the stop, K9 Bear was deployed and alerted to one of the drugs he is trained to detect inside the cab of the vehicle. 

 

A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed approximately 2.5 kilograms (5.5 pounds) of blue fentanyl based pills and approximately half a kilogram (1.1 pounds) of pure pressed fentanyl powder. The occupants of the vehicle are facing pending criminal charges for narcotic distribution.

 

Drug trafficking organizations typically distribute fentanyl by the kilogram. One kilogram has the potential to kill 500,000 people. (DEA.gov)




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6111/171078/2.jpg , 2024-03/6111/171078/1.png

New LCSO K9 Doing Good Work (Photo)
Lane Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/25/24 4:14 PM
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Lane County Sheriff’s Office K9 located a large amount of illegal drugs in a vehicle.

 

K9 Bear assisted with a traffic stop in the search for illegal drugs. K9 Bear was able to assist in locating a kilo of pure fentanyl and approximately 50,000 fentanyl pills that were located in a hidden compartment of the vehicle. The occupants of the vehicle have been referred for prosecution. This investigation is ongoing and additional details are not available at this time. 

 

K9 Bear is a recent addition to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office and specializes in locating illegal drugs.




Attached Media Files: Illegal Drugs

Lane County Sheriff's Office Involved in a Pursuit (Photo)
Lane Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/25/24 4:01 PM
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LCSO Case #24-1524

On 3/24/2024 Lane County Sheriff’s Office was involved in a pursuit with a menacing subject.

 

Deputies were on the lookout for 56-year-old Walter Edward Boss of Junction City yesterday after he made threats to go to a local police station and shoot law enforcement officers.  Boss was observed in his vehicle by a deputy near the town of Coburg.  Boss pulled behind the lone deputy’s vehicle and began chasing him.  The deputy was able to safely disengage and wait for backup.  Other units, including troopers with the Oregon State Police, responded to the area and located Boss still driving in his vehicle at which time a pursuit ensued.  During the pursuit, Boss pointed a rifle and laser at responding personnel. The rifle was later discovered to be an airsoft rifle that resembles a real rifle. The pursuit ended on Powerline Road where Boss got out of his vehicle with the rifle that had the laser attached. After attempting to injure himself, deputies were able to take Boss into custody. Boss was taken to the hospital due to a minor self-inflicted injury and later released. He was then lodged at Lane County Adult Corrections on Menacing, Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering and Unlawful use of a Weapon.

 

This incident involved multiple agencies and the Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Junction City Police Department, Eugene Police Department and Oregon State Police for all the cooperation to resolve this situation. 




Attached Media Files: Airsoft Rifle 2 , Airsoft Rifle 1

Lebanon Firefighters Make Aggressive Stop on Building Fire (Photo)
Lebanon Fire District - 03/28/24 9:21 AM
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Lebanon, OR

Lebanon Firefighters responded to a structure fire in the 3600 block of S. Santiam Hwy in the early evening hours of Wednesday March 28, 2024. The first due ladder truck arrived to find smoke coming from the attic of a duplex and radioed an offensive fire attack. Firefighters quickly went to work by making searches of the building with firefighters from the medic cutting a hole in the roof for ventilation. A next due engine laid 700 feet of 4” supply line to bring more water to the blaze. What made this fire dangerous for firefighters was its location due to the smoke laying low covering all 4 lanes of the busy HWY 20 while apparatus were working off the highway. The IC requested help from ODOT and Lebanon Police Department to assist with traffic control as additional firefighters arrived and during the operation to keep firefighters safe. The blaze was radioed under control within minutes of fire crews making their attack. Crews were on scene for two and half hours mopping up hotspots, clearing smoke and investigating the cause of the fire. The cause is under investigation by the Lebanon Fire investigation team (LFIT). No injuries were reported but the occupants from both residences have been displaced due to smoke and fire damage.

Lebanon Fire District responded with 19 personnel on one ladder truck, three engines, one heavy rescue, one ALS medic unit, one rehab unit for firefighters and 3 chief officers. Lebanon firefighters were assisted at the scene by ODOT, Lebanon Police Department and PP&L. Albany Fire Department supported Lebanon firefighters by covering additional 911 calls with one engine and one medic unit.

The Lebanon Fire District would like to remind residents of the importance of discarding cigarettes or smoking materials in proper receptacles and having working smoke alarms in place. For assistance with smoke alarms in your home, contact our Fire & Life Safety Division at (541) 451-1901. Be Safe Lebanon.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1191/171100/House.jpg , LFIT , Firefighters , Smoke across HWY 20

Lincoln City K-9 Assists OSP in Locating Missing Driver (Photo)
Lincoln City Police - 03/28/24 10:52 AM
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On Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at approximately 2:30 PM Lincoln City Police K-9 Officer Nix and her handler, Officer Snidow, responded to the area of Mile Marker 17 on Highway 20 to help locate a missing driver.  The driver, an 81-year-old male, had driven off the embankment of Highway 20 in the area the night prior.  The crash was not discovered until approximately 2:00 PM by a passer-by.

Discovered inside the vehicle was an elderly female passenger who had suffered a head injury. She was subsequently transported by medical personnel to Pacific Communities Hospital in Newport.

When Officer Snidow and K-9 Nix arrived, they began searching the area.  K-9 Nix quickly located the driver, who walked away after the crash, approximately 100 yards from his car stuck in an area of dense blackberries.  The driver apparently had a medical episode, and was transported to the Pacific Communities Hospital in Newport.

This incident highlights the importance of the Police K-9 program available in Lincoln City.  As there were no other K-9 units available in the county, Lincoln City Police Officer Snidow and K-9 Nix were instrumental in locating the driver and ensuring he received medical care. The Lincoln City Police Department is grateful for the community support that allows us to run this beneficial program.

Submitted By:

Sergeant Torin Liden / Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6142/171107/Nix.jpg

Lincoln County Police Agencies To Conduct Active Shooter Response Training (Photo)
Lincoln City Police - 03/21/24 9:10 PM
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The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Newport Police, Toledo Police, Oregon State Police, and Lincoln City Police will be conducting active shooter response training exercises March 26-28, 2024 to better prepare officers to respond to an active shooter type event should one occur in our cities. 

These training exercises will be taking place at the Newport Middle School and Taft High School campuses. We want to alert the public in hopes of minimizing any alarm or confusion that may occur when people see a large concentration of officers and police vehicles at the schools. The training exercise will be occurring during spring break when no students or staff will be present at the schools. Signs will be posted outside the school indicating that a training exercise is underway.

This training event is not open to the public and access to the school will be restricted while the training exercises are being conducted.  

Should you have questions or concerns, please contact Lincoln City Police Department Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn or Lieutenant Eric Henderson at 541-994-3636. 

Lincoln County law enforcement agencies would like to extend a big thank you to the Lincoln County School District for allowing the use of their buildings for this training exercise. The cooperation of all our emergency response agencies and our school district partners is crucial to helping keep the communities and citizens of Lincoln County safe. 

Submitted by:  Lieutenant Eric Henderson / Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6142/170955/Active_Shooter_Training_II.jpg

Tip of the Week for April 1, 2024 - Distracted Driving (Photo)
Lincoln Co. Sheriff's Office - 03/28/24 10:00 AM
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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has declared April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Distracted driving is any activity that takes the driver’s attention away from driving. Cell phone use including texting, talking on the phone, or using social media are some of the activities that are the most dangerous. This is because cell phone use takes your visual, manual, cognitive, and auditory attention away from driving.

While cell phones are some of the most dangerous distractions, other activities such as eating, talking with passengers, grooming, and reading can be dangerous and deadly. According to the NHTSA, 3,522 people were killed by distracted driving in 2021. You can learn more about the dangers of distracted driving by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month” webpage. 

Use these tips to help keep your car distraction free:

  • Don’t call or text while driving. Instead, pull over in a safe place to read and send texts or make a phone call.
  • Establish a “co-pilot” passenger to manage your cell phone, GPS, and other distractions.
  • Look up your destination ahead of time and become familiar with the area. This will help prevent the need to look at GPS while driving.
  • Enjoy your meal at home, in the restaurant, or while parked safely. Eating while driving increases your risk of traffic collisions and the likelihood of choking.
  • Keep pets crated or otherwise secured for safety. This will help keep your furry friend safer in the event of a crash and prevents them from crawling onto your lap or other distracting activities.
  • Recruit the whole family for distraction-free driving. Teach your children the importance of keeping your attention on the road even before they can drive.
  • If your children need help, pull over to help address their needs instead of reaching to the backseat while driving.
  • Encourage friends and family to drive distraction-free. By speaking up, you may save their life and others on the road.

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

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Attached Media Files: 2024-03/5490/170512/03.28.24_-_Distracted_Driving.pdf , 2024-03/5490/170512/03.28.24_-_Distracted_Driving.docx , 2024-03/5490/170512/Tip_of_the_Week_-_Distracted_Driving.png

Linn County Sheriff's Office Makes Multiple Arrests on Timberland (Photo)
Linn County Sheriff's Office - 03/22/24 2:01 PM
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Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports on March 13, 2024, deputies responded to a report of a vehicle fire at a rock quarry on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land off Camp Morrison Rd outside of Scio. A witness reported the vehicle had been lit on fire by multiple people who had been at the quarry target shooting. The witness reported the suspects left behind an AK47 rifle before fleeing the scene after lighting the vehicle on fire.

Deputies responded to the scene and found a Volkswagen sedan completely consumed by the fire and reported as stolen to the Corvallis Police Department. While deputies were investigating, the suspects returned to the scene to collect the AK47 left behind. Deputies detained Robert James Branch, 30, of Keizer, and Josie Doreen De La Cruz, 28, of Albany. Deputies seized the vehicle Branch and De La Cruz returned to the scene with.

This week, deputies obtained a search warrant for their vehicle and seized several items relating to the arson. They also located additional evidence related to the delivery of narcotics. Items seized included multiple lighters, multiple firearms, ammunition, about 400 grams of suspected methamphetamine, suspected fentanyl powder, a digital scale, methamphetamine paraphernalia, prescription medications, packaging material, and over $2,000 in cash. 

Branch was transported to the Linn County Jail for Arson in the first degree, Attempted Delivery of a Controlled Substance-Methamphetamine, and Possession of a Controlled Substance-Methamphetamine. De La Cruz was transported to the Linn County Jail for Attempted Delivery of a Controlled Substance- Methamphetamine, Possession of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle. 

 

 

 




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/2993/170969/DSCN1984.JPG , 2024-03/2993/170969/DSCN1935.JPG , 2024-03/2993/170969/DSCN1931.JPG , 2024-03/2993/170969/DSCN1883.JPG

Deadline approaching for Oregon State Fire Marshal sparky award nominations (Photo)
Oregon State Fire Marshal - 03/25/24 7:54 AM
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SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon State Fire Marshal is calling on Oregonians and local fire agencies to submit their nominations for the prestigious Golden and Silver Sparky Awards. The awards recognize outstanding achievements in fire prevention and public safety education. These awards honor the dedication and commitment of people and organizations working to create safer communities.

The Golden Sparky is awarded to a fire service member or agency demonstrating exemplary efforts in fire prevention or public safety education. The Silver Sparky recognizes the remarkable contributions of civilians or civilian agencies demonstrating exemplary efforts in fire prevention or public safety education.

Nominations for these awards are open until April 1, 2024. To nominate deserving candidates, simply submit a nomination form along with a detailed explanation and examples showcasing the nominee's exceptional achievements.

For more information and to access the nomination form, please visit the OSFM Sparky Award webpage or contact us at licaffairs.osfm@osfm.oregon.gov">publicaffairs.osfm@osfm.oregon.gov.

Don't miss this opportunity to recognize those who go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities. Submit your nominations and help us celebrate the remarkable contributions of individuals and agencies in fire prevention and public safety education.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1062/171000/Golden_Sparky.jpg

Fatal Crash - Hwy 101 - Curry County
Oregon State Police - 03/27/24 1:03 PM

Curry County, Ore. 25 Mar. 24- On Monday, March 25, 2024, at 10:06 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-101, near milepost 342, in Curry County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Chrysler 300, operated by Warren David Laville (75) of Gold Beach, was stopped for an ODOT flagger when a Toyota Matrix, operated by Elaine Vicky Rosinbaum (55) of Coos Bay, collided with the rear of the Chrysler. 

The operator of the Chrysler (Warren Laville) was transported and declared deceased at the hospital. A passenger in the Chrysler, Mary Louise Laville (74) of Gold Beach, was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

The operator of the Toyota (Rosinbaum) was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation. The crash is still under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Curry County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

 

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


Fatal Crash - HWY 202 - Clatsop County
Oregon State Police - 03/24/24 8:18 AM

Clatsop County, Ore. 22 Mar. 24- On Friday, March 22, 2024, at 11:15 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Hwy-202, near milepost 3.5, in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound BMW 328, operated by Alexander Campuzano Luna (22) of Seaside, left the roadway for unknown reasons, overturned, and came to rest upside down in a shallow body of water. 

The solo occupant of the BMW was declared deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately 6.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is unknown at this time, however speed is being considered a contributing factor.

OSP was assisted by the Clatsop County Sheriff's Office, Seaside Fire, Cannon Beach Fire, Olney-Walluski Fire, and ODOT.


Fatal Crash - HWY 97 - Klamath County
Oregon State Police - 03/22/24 3:55 PM

Klamath County, Ore. 21 March 24- On Thursday, March 21, 2024, at 12:20 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Hwy-97, near milepost 281, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Ford Econoline van, operated by Carl Francis Kollmar (44) of Klamath Falls, attempted to turn left into a driveway and entered the path of a northbound Peterbilt commercial motor vehicle, operated by Donny Kart Starr (51) of Turlock (CA). The vehicles collided head-on resulting in the Ford van being pushed backward into a southbound Ford Focus, operated by Kessandra Malan Boyd Zambrano (29) of Haquaim (WA). 

A passenger in the Ford Econoline, Scott Lane Nelson (67) of Klamath Falls, was transported and later declared deceased at a local hospital. The operator of the Ford Econoline (Kollmar) reportedly suffered minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

The operator of the Peterbilt (Starr) was reportedly not injured.

The operator of the Ford Focus (Boyd Zambrano) reportedly suffered minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation. The crash investigation is ongoing.

OSP was assisted by District 1 Fire and ODOT.

 

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

 


OSP Seeking Vehicle Involved in Hit and Run - Marion/Yamhill Counties
Oregon State Police - 03/22/24 2:23 PM

MARION/YAMHILL COUNTY, Ore. 22 March 2024 – The Oregon State Police is seeking the public’s assistance with locating a vehicle and driver involved in a collision with a pedestrian on the bridge between Newberg and St. Paul on Highway 219.  

The incident occurred on March 15, 2024, at approximately 8:30 p.m. 

A pedestrian was walking southbound along the side of the road and was struck by the side mirror of a passing vehicle and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. 

The vehicle is believed to be a newer model (2017-2022) Ford Super Duty pickup and will likely have damage to the passenger side mirror. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact OSP at 800-442-0776 or dial OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number #SP24083039.


Burn Permits - Inside Roseburg City Limits - Spring 2024 - 3-28-24 (Photo)
Roseburg Fire Dept. - 03/28/24 10:00 AM
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The City of Roseburg Fire Department will begin issuing residential burn permits, beginning on April 15, 2024 and ending on May 15, 2024.

These permits are issued for seven (7) days at a cost of $75.00.  Residential yard waste is the only material that may be burned. Prohibited items include standing berry vines, paper, wood, plastics, tires, standing grass, weeds, construction material, and material from lot clearing.  Burning may not be done on vacant lots or the property of another. Fires must be monitored by a competent adult and extinguished prior to darkness. Tools to control or extinguish the fire must be on-site whenever there is material burning.

Burn barrels are never allowed inside City limits, and anyone burning trash or burning without a permit may be subject to a fine and/or legal action.  Additionally, due diligence must be exercised while burning, even with a permit, as fire can quickly get out of control, and the person responsible for the fire may be subject to fines, legal action, or restitution.

If possible, residents are urged to utilize alternatives to burning, such as composting, chipping, mulching, or transporting the debris to the Douglas County Landfill.  More information on these options can be found at https://douglascounty-oregon.us/449/Wood-Yard-Waste

To request a burning permit in the City of Roseburg, call (541) 492-6770 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. This information, as well as the burn permit request form is also available on the city website at https://www.cityofroseburg.org/departments/fire




Attached Media Files: Image 1 , Image 2

Detectives arrest one in connection with mail theft, multiple federal charges pending (Photo)
Salem Police Department - 03/26/24 1:30 PM
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: March 26, 2024

CONTACT:     Salem Police Communications Office | spdmedia@cityofsalem.net

 

Detectives arrest one in connection with mail theft, multiple federal charges pending

Salem, Ore. — A 33-year-old Salem man was arrested yesterday, March 25, during the service of a warrant at an apartment in southeast Salem.

Salem Police patrol officers arrested Ross Benjamin Sierzega on Monday afternoon without incident on multiple warrants stemming from a nearly two-year investigation by Felony Crimes Unit detectives into incidents of mail theft and related crimes in the Salem area. 

Following the arrest, a search warrant was served in partnership with the United States Postal Inspection Service at Sierzega’s apartment in the 3300 block of Crawford ST SE. The search of the dwelling resulted in the seizure of two lock cores from community mailboxes, several counterfeit mailbox keys and tools to manufacture the counterfeit keys, multiple checks, bank cards, and financial documents not in Sierzega’s name, and approximately 30 pounds of mail. In addition to the evidence collected, detectives seized a short-barreled shotgun and home-made body armor.

Sierzega is currently in custody of the US Marshals Service on federal charges related to this investigation. In addition to 11 outstanding Oregon warrants, Sierzega was charged with the following:

  • Felon in possession of a firearm
  • Unlawful possession of a short-barreled shotgun
  • Felon in possession of body armor
  • Identity theft
  • Forgery, first-degree
  • Criminal possession of a forged instrument, first-degree
  • Possession of burglary tools

Sierzega will make his initial appearance in federal court today, March 26, on a federal warrant which was based on charges of mail theft, aggravated identity theft, and bank fraud. Under US Code, manufacture of a counterfeit mail key carries a maximum sentence of 10 years upon conviction. 

Of the investigation, Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack noted, “I know so many residents have been directly impacted in recent years all across our city as victims of this far too prevalent and pernicious crime. The suspect’s arrest hopefully brings some sense of justice to victims and signals to those who would steal mail and commit fraud that we take these crimes seriously.”

The chief of police also commended the collaborative work done by Salem Police detectives and the US postal inspectors involved, “My thanks to the detectives who were relentless in their investigative efforts. I am also grateful for the excellent working relationship we have with the US Postal Inspection Service.”

Felony Crimes Unit detectives will spend the next several weeks reaching out to victims to return stolen property seized in the investigation. The US Postal Inspection Service will handle the processing and return of the stolen mail.

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Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1095/171048/SMP24021607_Items_seized_in_the_service_of_the_search_warrant.jpeg

Early morning collision leaves one deceased, two injured
Salem Police Department - 03/23/24 10:15 AM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: March 23, 2024

 

Early morning collision leaves one deceased, two injured

Salem, Ore. — Salem Police officers responded to a two-vehicle collision early Saturday morning which left one person deceased and two others injured.

At approximately 1:30 a.m. today, emergency responders were called to the intersection of Kuebler BV and Liberty RD S on the report of a two-vehicle collision.

The preliminary investigation by the Salem Police Traffic Team determined the driver of a compact, crossover SUV was travelling eastbound on Kuebler BV and failed to stop for the red-light signal. The compact SUV driven by Joshua Noel Guerra, age 33 of Salem, collided with a northbound SUV crossing the intersection on Liberty RD. The northbound vehicle was driven by 19-year-old Casen Matthew Collins of Salem.

Guerra was found deceased at the scene. Collins and an occupant in his vehicle were transported to Salem Health with non-life-threatening injuries.

Completion of the full investigation by the Traffic Team is pending, and no other information is available for release.

# # #


Military
Upcoming Army Rotary Wing Late Night Flying on Northern Oregon Coast
Oregon Military Department - 03/26/24 8:45 AM

SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon National Guard’s Camp Rilea Training Center, near Warrenton, Oregon, will host active-duty Army rotary wing night training missions over March 27-29, 2024. The visiting unit is located at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, near Tacoma, Washington.  

Army rotary wing aircraft will conduct nighttime air operations on Camp Rilea’s Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) training site in order to maintain pilot and crew proficiency necessary to support real world military operations.  

“Camp Rilea Range Operations appreciates the support of the local community and understands the impact night military operations can have,” said Maj. Steven Maughan, Camp Rilea Range Officer.  “We want to provide advance notice to our community members about the increased noise from military aircraft during this particular period.” 

While night flying operations will conclude by midnight each night at Camp Rilea, training may continue throughout the night in the surrounding areas.    

Camp Rilea Range Operations Range Status, to include scheduled life fire ranges and night operations, can be found on the Oregon Military Department website at https://www.oregon.gov/omd/rilea/Pages/Range-Operations.aspx 

 

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Memorial service held to honor the 80th Anniversary of the 1944 explosion at former Umatilla Depot (Photo)
Oregon Military Department - 03/22/24 3:30 PM
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HERMISTON, Ore. —  The Columbia Development Authority and the Oregon Military Department hosted a memorial service on March 21, 2024 to observe the 80th Anniversary of the 1944 munitions explosion at the former Umatilla Army Ordnance Depot which claimed the lives of six workers. 

Oregon State Rep. Greg Smith, representing the Columbia Development Authority, spoke to those who gathered to pay tribute to the six people who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“The cause of the explosion has never been determined, however what we do know is that six civilians lost their lives that day,” Smith said. “It is important that we recognize the men and women who sacrificed for each and every one of us.”

The accidental explosion occurred inside igloo B-1014 on March 21, 1944 at 9:21 p.m., one of 1,002 storage igloos instantly killing Harry D. Sever, Hiram Cook, Kenneth L. Fraser, William Sanders, Alice Wolgamott, and Lance Stultz.

Following Smith’s remarks, a tribal prayer was offered by Raymond Huesties of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, and Oregon National Guard Chaplain (Col.) Jacob Scott offered a prayer to those gathered at the memorial site.

“On this spring day we pause to remember and honor the service to our nation the six people who perished in the igloo explosion on this spot eighty years ago today,” Scott said. “They were part of a massive effort to defend America and the world against tyranny.”

Oregon National Guard serviced members took part in the ceremony with an honor guard unit presenting the colors with music presented for the national anthem, as taps were played after a wreath was laid by members of the American Legion Post 37.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, a procession was led by the Oregon Military Department Wildland Fire back to the Rees Training Center to the Explosion Site Memorial Plaque for a moment of silence, led by Chaplain Scott.

In remarks held after the two ceremonies, State Sen. Bill Hansell reflected on the sober significance of the explosion.

“Can you imagine if you had a loved one working the swing shift that evening and the concern you would have wondering if they would walk through the door,” Hansell said. “It’s fitting that we pause and remember their sacrifices."

As the United States prepared for WWII, the U.S. Army began building a military munitions and supply depot on twenty thousand acres of land located on Umatilla and Morrow counties near Hermiston, Oregon in 1940. The site was selected because it was safe from attacks by sea, as well as the proximity to established railroad lines and a port location on the Columbia River. The Umatilla Depot was renamed the Raymond F. Rees Training Center on Sept. 29, 2022 as the home of the Oregon Army National Guard regional infantry training center.

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Released Photos: 

240321-Z-CH590-1136: An Oregon Army National Guard Color Guard unit presents the colors during the national anthem at the 80th Anniversary ceremony of the 1944 explosion at the former Umatilla Depot, on March 21, 2024 near Hermiston, Oregon. On March 21, 1944, at 9:21 p.m., six civilian workers were killed in a munitions explosion as part of defense of the United States during WWII. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240321-Z-CH590-1169: A member of the American Legion Post 37 in Hermiston, Oregon salutes a wreath at the explosion site at former Umatilla Depot, on March 21, 2024 near Hermiston, Oregon. On March 21, 1944, at 9:21 p.m., six civilian workers were killed in a munitions explosion as part of defense of the United States during WWII. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240321-Z-CH590-1177: An Oregon Army National Guard Soldier plays taps during the 80th Anniversary ceremony of the 1944 explosion at the former Umatilla Depot, on March 21, 2024 near Hermiston, Oregon. On March 21, 1944, at 9:21 p.m., six civilian workers were killed in a munitions explosion as part of defense of the United States during WWII. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240321-Z-CH590-1172: A lone cross marks the site of the 1944 munitions explosion at the former Umatilla Depot, on March 21, 2024 near Hermiston, Oregon following the 80th Anniversary ceremony to honor the six civilian workers killed in a munitions explosion as part of the defense of the United States during WWII. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240321-Z-CH590-1216: Oregon Army National Guard Chaplain (Col.) Jacob Scott leads a moment of since at the historic memorial marker at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon on March 21, 2024. Six civilian workers were killed in a munitions explosion on March 21, 1944 at 9:21 p.m., as part of defense of the United States during WWII. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240321-Z-CH590-1226: State Sen. Bill Hansell addresses those who attended the 80th Anniversary ceremony to honor the six civilian workers killed in a munitions explosion as part of the defense of the United States during WWII. Hansell described growing up near the depot during the Second World War as his family had one of the largest hog farms in the country nearby. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1226.jpg , 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1216.jpg , 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1177.jpg , 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1169.jpg , 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1136.jpg , 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1072.jpg

Federal
BLM Boosts Internet Access and Reliability for Rural and Underserved Communities
Bureau of Land Management Ore. & Wash. - 03/28/24 10:30 AM

WASHINGTON – In support of access to reliable high-speed internet service for every American, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is updating regulations for developing and operating broadband infrastructure on public lands. The final rule on Broadband Authorization, Cost Recovery, and Vegetation Management for Fire Risk Management also reduces fire risk along power lines.

“Internet access is essential in an increasingly digital world, and ensuring that every American has reliable, high-speed access is a top priority for the Biden-Harris administration,” said Tracy Stone-Manning, BLM Director. “Internet opens the door to job opportunities, educational resources, health care information, government services, and social networks. By making it easier for service providers to put communications infrastructure on public lands, BLM is helping to ensure communities across America are connected.”

As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the Biden-Harris Administration is committing $83.1 billion to provide affordable, reliable high-speed internet to everyone in the United States.

As the nation’s largest land manager, BLM plays a major role in connecting communities to the internet in the Western United States. Updates in this final rule provide consistency in BLM’s review of applications to locate communications facilities on Federal land, allow project applications to be submitted electronically, and commit the agency to making a decision on applications within 270 days.

The rule also addresses the risks of wildfire to and from powerlines on BLM-managed public lands. Hazard trees and other vegetation near transmission and distribution lines can be ignition points for fires or become fuel for fires that start elsewhere. Clarifying requirements for vegetation management will enhance public safety while helping protect investments in infrastructure and resources on public lands.

In addition, the rule updates BLM’s cost recovery fee schedule for authorizing broadband projects, which will help ensure the BLM is fairly compensated for its work.

There are approximately 1,500 communications sites on BLM-managed lands, many of which include towers for cellular and wireless services. Additionally, BLM administers 5,000 miles of energy corridors for power transmission (connected to 1,000 miles of similar corridors on U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service lands), which are compatible with uses such as fiber optics and phone lines.

For more information on the BLM broadband rule, visit www.blm.gov/broadband-rule. For more information about BLM’s efforts to build and secure the nation’s infrastructure, visit our infrastructure site.

 

–BLM–

 

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


State
Public Safety Memorial Fund Board Meeting
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 03/28/24 8:38 AM

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

 

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a regular meeting on April 25, 2024, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting that begins at 9:00 a.m. at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE Salem. For further information, please contact Shelby Wright at (503) 378-2191.

 

Agenda Items

1. Introductions

2. Approve January 25, 2024, Meeting Minutes

     Approve Minutes

3. Public Safety Memorial Fund Budget Update

    Presented by Kathy McAlpine

4. Brian Gaunt (DPSST #37820); Supplemental Application for Discretionary Benefits

    Presented by Kathy McAlpine

5. Proposed Rule Change for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-070-0010 

  Codifying Eligibility Dates for OLCC Regulatory Specialists (SB 699)
  Presented by Jennifer Howald
 

6. Next meeting – July 25, 2024, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting at 9:00 a.m.

 

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. 


Board on Public Safety Standards and Training Meeting Scheduled 4-25-2024
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 03/26/24 11:17 AM

BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

 

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 25, 2024, in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Shelby Wright at (503) 378-2191 or shelby.wright@dpsst.oregon.gov.

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

 

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Meeting Minutes

     Approve minutes from the January 25, 2024, Meeting

3. Fire Policy Committee

a. Fire Policy Committee Update – Brian Henson, Deputy Director

b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. William Comeford, DPSST No. 34996; Portland Fire & Rescue – No Action

Unanimous vote with two (2) recusals to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 28, 2024.

B. Curtis Deetz, DPSST No. 31371; Portland Fire & Rescue – No Action

Unanimous vote with three (3) recusals to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 28, 2024. 

C. Committee Appointments

Fire Policy Committee

  • Shawn Olson – Oregon Fire Marshals Association Representative, Appointment to the FPC, 1st term effective August 20, 2024.

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

a. Police Policy Committee Update – Scotty Nowning, Chair

b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair

c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Matthew English, Chair

d. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. Ruben Benavidez, DPSST No. 50462; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution– Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024. 

B. Randy Bocchi, DPSST No. 45164; Klamath County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

C. Chandler Bolton, DPSST No. 56778; Linn County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 22, 2024.

D. Kodie Carroll, DPSST No. 64023; Jackson County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

E. Tina Earhart, DPSST No. 61184; DOC/Santiam Correctional Institution – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

F. Roderick Hogan, DPSST No. 60731; Washington County Consolidated Communications 911 Agency – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on February 7, 2024.

G. Stephen Naber, DPSST No. 54246; Lane County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 22, 2024.

H. Joshua Patterson, DPSST No. 45007; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

I. Caden Powell, DPSST No. 54126; DOC/Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

J. Susan Ramos, DPSST No. 61253; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

K. Robert Rosales, DPSST No. 36499; Springfield Police Department – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 22, 2024.

L. Ernest Slye IV, DPSST No. 61466; Oregon State University Department of Public Safety – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on February 7, 2024.

M. Travis Stice, DPSST No. 60272; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

N. Timothy Sundin, DPSST No. 39688; DOC/Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

O. Law Enforcement Memorial Wall Nomination; George M. Lowe, (EOW 1919) – Ashland Police Department

Determine eligibility for addition to Oregon’s Law Enforcement Memorial Wall

P. Committee Appointments

Police Policy Committee

  • Megan Townsend– Non-Management Law Enforcement, Appointment to the PPC, 1st term effective April 28, 2024.
  • Kevin Dresser– Non-Management Law Enforcement, Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective April 25, 2024.
  • Rob Wood– Public Member, Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective July 26, 2024.

Corrections Policy Committee

  • Michael Mays– Non-Management Corrections, Appointment to the CPC, 1st term effective April 25, 2024.
  • Joshua Aldrich– Oregon Jail Command Council Representative, Appointment to the CPC, 1st term effective April 28, 2024.
  • John Frost–Non-Management Corrections Employed by DOC, Re-appointment to the CPC, 2nd term effective April 28, 2024.

Telecommunications Policy Committee

  • Brandon Hamilton– Oregon Fire Chiefs Association Representative, Appointment to the TPC, 1st term effective July 28, 2024.
  • Travis Ash– Oregon State Sheriffs Association Representative, Re-appointment to the TPC, 2nd term effective July 28, 2024.

5. Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

a. Private Security Investigator Policy Committee Update – Dan Lenzen, Chair

b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) Chapter 259 Division 59

Adopting Permanent Rules for the Private Security Entity Licensing Program

Five (5) to four (4) vote to recommend to the Board by the PSIPC on February 20, 2024.

B. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0130

Related to Executive Managers Providing Contract Services

Eight (8) to one (1) vote with one abstention to recommend to the Board by the PSIPC on February 20, 2024.

C. Committee Appointments

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

  • Samantha Schrantz – Private Investigator, Re- appointment to the PSIPC, 2nd term effective July 28, 2024.

6. Legislative Actions

a. Proposed Legislative Concept Request

Fire Policy Committee Membership Housekeeping

Jennifer Howald

b. Proposed Legislative Concept Request

Deferred Professional Standards Cases and DPSST Jurisdiction

Jennifer Howald

c. Policy Option Packages: Placeholder – Agency Director, Phil Castle

7. Agency Updates - Agency Director, Phil Castle

8. Next Meeting Date: July 25, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.
 

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Board members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.


Jason Holland and Jenny R. Stadler appointed to Oregon Arts Commission (Photo)
Oregon Arts Commission - 03/26/24 10:48 AM
Jason Holland
Jason Holland
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Salem, Oregon – Jason Holland, the executive director of the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, and Jenny R. Stadler, the executive director of PHAME Academy, have been appointed to the Oregon Arts Commission by Governor Tina Kotek. 

Jenny and Jason are community-centered arts advocates who tirelessly work to elevate the arts in Oregon,” said Commission Chair Subashini Ganesan-Forbes. “The Arts Commission will gain tremendously from these two remarkable organizational leaders because they are also deeply committed to their own individual artistic practices. As the Commission continues to fine tune how we serve artists, arts organizations and all Oregonians, having artists at the leadership table is vital.”

At Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, Holland works to celebrate, develop and promote community arts in addition to managing and operating the Newport Performing Arts and Visual Arts Centers. He has worked in the arts nonprofit sector for 20 years with broad-based operational and programmatic leadership at both large and small arts organizations. Holland currently sits on the boards of the Economic Development Alliance of Lincoln County, Pride Newport and the Lincoln County Cultural Coalition. His artistic background is in instrumental and vocal music, as well as in theater – where he has directed plays and musicals for many years.

“Being appointed by Governor Kotek as an Oregon Arts Commissioner brings with it a profound responsibility –,” said Holland, “to nurture the creative soul of Oregon, to help Oregonians weave the vibrant tapestry of our cultural heritage throughout this beautiful state, and to advocate tirelessly for the transformative power of the arts in all of our communities. Serving Oregon in this capacity is truly an honor.”  

Stadler has been the executive director of PHAME Academy since 2017, working to create more equitable arts opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through PHAME's school, performances and outreach programs. After receiving her Ph.D. in psychology, she left academia to work in the nonprofit sector, running a start-up education organization and later fundraising, developing curricula and supporting organizations in long-range planning. As a long-time choral singer and theater fan, Stadler’s heart has always been in the arts, and when an opportunity arose to move into arts administration in 2013, she “jumped and hasn't looked back,” she said. Jenny lives with chronic illness and is also a singer and board member for the Choral Arts Ensemble of Portland. 

“I’m deeply honored to be appointed to the Oregon Arts Commission and thrilled to serve alongside this group of dedicated and thoughtful leaders,” said Stadler. “While we’ve come so far in our state in bringing equity, diversity and inclusion into the arts conversation; disability still is so often left behind, and I am overjoyed to see the state choosing to center disability within its arts work. I’m looking forward to elevating the voices of our community—and of communities statewide—because everyone deserves access to the arts, at every level.”

Holland and Stadler begin their four-year terms immediately.

                

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


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




Attached Media Files: Jason Holland , Jenny R. Stadler

Oregon OSHA fines Bend construction company $103,438 for repeatedly violating fall protection requirement (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 03/27/24 4:27 PM
DCBS logo
DCBS logo
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Salem – The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) has fined a Bend construction company $103,438 for repeatedly violating a requirement to provide protective systems to safeguard workers from fall hazards that could seriously injure or kill them.

The division cited Sky Ridge Construction LLC following an inspection that focused on a job site where work was being done on new houses. The inspection was conducted under Oregon OSHA’s prevention-based emphasis program addressing fall hazards in all industries.

The inspection found multiple employees working on a roof without fall protection. They were exposed to a potential fall of 18 feet to the ground. Sky Ridge Construction had violated a rule requiring employers to ensure that fall protection systems are provided, installed, and implemented where employees are exposed to a hazard of falling 6 feet or more to a lower level, according to the inspection.

During the inspection, the company corrected the violation identified by Oregon OSHA. 

It was the third time since January 2022 that Sky Ridge Construction violated fall protection requirements. Because of the repeat offenses, the penalty for the violation was multiplied, with Oregon OSHA imposing a $103,438 penalty.

Falls are one of the leading causes of death in the construction industry.

“There is no good reason for an employer to direct employees to work at heights without ensuring fall protection systems are effectively used,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “Any employer can get the job done safely by ensuring employees who are working at heights are protected. It’s not an option; it’s a requirement. Workers have a right to work safely, and employers must make that right a reality.” 

Employers have 30 calendar days after receiving a citation to file an appeal.

In addition to its enforcement activities, Oregon OSHA offers employers free resources to help improve workplace safety and health. These resources include the division’s Fall Protection Suite of online video training courses and its A-to-Z topic page about fall protectionThe Fall Protection Suite includes courses addressing fall protection fundamentalsconstructionroofingand ladder safety.

Employers are encouraged to use free resources – available now from Oregon OSHA and involving no fault, no citations, and no penalties – for help protecting their employees:

Consultation services – Provides free help with safety and health programs, including how to control and eliminate hazards, and hands-on training

Technical staff – Helps employers understand requirements and how to apply them to their worksites

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

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




Attached Media Files: DCBS logo , Oregon OSHA logo

State of Oregon settles with cryptocurrency asset platform (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 03/27/24 1:57 PM
Division of Financial Regulation logo
Division of Financial Regulation logo
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Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has reached a settlement agreement in principle with a cryptocurrency asset platform for violating state securities regulations.

The group of affiliated companies – Plutus Financial Holdings Inc., Plutus Financial Inc., Plutus Lending LLC and Abra Boost LLC – offered and sold interest-bearing cryptocurrency depository products referred to as Abra Boost and Abra Earn.

As part of the settlement, the companies – commonly known as Abra – are required to notify all Oregon consumers with open accounts containing crypto assets with the companies that they are winding down U.S. operations and to encourage consumers to move any remaining crypto assets from the platform.

Consumers have at least seven days from the date they receive notice to remove their assets from the Abra platform. Assets remaining after that date with a value of $10 or more will be converted to fiat and a check or other instrument will be sent directly to the consumer’s last known address. 

In Oregon, 167 residents still have cryptocurrencies on the Abra platform valued at about $32,387.14.

The companies – controlled by William “Bill” Barhydt, who is also a party to the settlement – offered Abra Earn to all U.S. clients and Abra Boost to accredited U.S. clients. Investors in both programs earned interest by depositing digital assets with Abra and authorizing Abra to lend client assets to institutional borrowers.

“Although firms are creating new products tied to evolving technologies, they must continue to comply with existing securities laws,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “The division will continue to ensure that investors purchasing securities tied to digital assets are afforded the same protections as investors purchasing stocks, bonds and other traditional products.”

As part of the settlement, Abra and Barhydt will enter a consent order with DFR requiring that they cease and desist from offering or selling unregistered securities in Oregon and ordering them to pay an administrative penalty, which will be suspended if they comply with the process to return all assets owned by Oregon consumers before April 25, 2024.

“We strongly encourage clients in Oregon to withdraw their assets as soon as possible, but certainly within seven days of receiving notice from Abra,” said Keen. “We are available to assist and answer consumers’ questions about this settlement.” 

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




Attached Media Files: Division of Financial Regulation logo

Oregon Department of Corrections and Oregon Corrections Enterprises Partner to Provide Work Release Program
Oregon Dept. of Corrections - 03/25/24 10:51 AM

Oregon Corrections Enterprises (OCE) is honored to be selected by the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) to facilitate work release partnerships. OCE proudly announces its first work release partnership with Pacific Pine Products Inc., located in Lakeview, Oregon. Woodworking industry jobs pay above a livable wage, and the local labor shortage has created a high demand for jobs of this nature. As independent research shows, successful work training opportunities, like the OCE/Pacific Pine Products Inc. partnership, are critical for rehabilitation and successful re-entry into the community.

Adults in custody will be screened for community safety and must have a willingness and desire for self-improvement. They will be transported from the Warner Creek Correctional Facility (WCCF) to the local factory. Pacific Pine Products will train the participants for a wide variety of jobs. Participants will learn and develop highly valued technical and general employment skills which will assist their re-entry into society. Per federal guidelines and authorized by the Oregon Constitution, participants will receive hourly wages from OCE as part of the Prison Industry Enhancement Certification Program. 

  • There will be a celebration of the collaborative partnership on April 2, 2023, 9:30 am at Pacific Pine Products, located at 17634 Highway 395, Lakeview, OR. 
  • Media interested in attending can contact Sam Snyder, sam.m.snyder@doc.oregon.gov, 541-947-8215.

Pacific Pine Products, Inc. is a family-owned business in operation since 1988. They design and build custom doors for residential and commercial properties – including wooden interior doors, custom entry doors, exterior residential doors, and rustic closet doors.

DOC oversees a network of 12 state prisons in Oregon. DOC protects public safety, holds offenders accountable, and requires them to take personal responsibility both for their crimes and for their behavior within DOC institutions. The Oregon Constitution and DOC allow for rehabilitation or reformation through programs and services. This combination ultimately contributes to successful reintegration to Oregon’s communities.

Oregon Corrections Enterprises was established through the passage of Ballot Measure 68 by the people of Oregon with the purpose of helping DOC meet its constitutional mandate created by Measure 17. OCE, the former DOC Corrections Industries program, was authorized as a semi-independent state agency whose finances are completely separated by statute from DOC. OCE receives no direct taxpayer dollars. Instead, OCE is funded entirely through sales of its products and services.

 

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Oregon Dept. of Forestry adds capacity to its urban forestry program with new hires (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/28/24 9:31 AM
The Oregon Dept. of Forestry has expanded its urban forestry team to better serve cities and towns across the state.
The Oregon Dept. of Forestry has expanded its urban forestry team to better serve cities and towns across the state.
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SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is poised to provide increased service on tree-related matters to Oregon’s urban residents thanks to five new hires. Using funding from the Oregon State Legislature, and the USDA Forest Service through the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), ODF has been able to hire a grants administrator and four new community assistance foresters – up from just one for the whole state.

Scott Altenhoff, Manager of ODF’s Urban and Community Assistance Forestry program, said he’s looking forward to how much more the added staff will allow the agency to do. 

“With 241 cities and towns in Oregon spread over 90,000 square miles and only one urban  forester, we were limited in how much support we could provide to any one community,” said Altenhoff. “With more staff, I’m excited we can engage with more communities to help them plan and manage their urban trees in accordance with best practices and the latest scientific research.”

Until now, Brittany Oxford had been the agency’s lone Community Assistance Forester. She has been joined since March 18 by Evan Elderbrock, Lilah Gonen, Alison Herrell and Jennifer Killian. 

Killian left her position as urban forester for the City of Corvallis to join ODF.  She has deep background in municipal forestry in her home state of Wisconsin, where she worked on that state’s emerald ash borer team. Prior to her work for Corvallis, she was Volunteer Program Coordinator for the non-profit tree planting organization Friends of Trees. She holds a master's degree from Oregon State University focused on long-term strategic urban forestry management. She is a member of the Pacific Northwest chapter of International Society of Arboriculture and a past board member of Oregon Community Trees, serving as chair of its 2019 conference.

Herrell is a Board-Certified Master Arborist and a Qualified Tree Risk Assessor. She has worked in various environmental posts for the past 15 years. She spent several seasons early in her career as a field technician for non-profits doing restoration and conservation work, including an AmeriCorps position with The Nature Conservancy. After completing her master’s degree in Environmental Science from Indiana University, she worked for six years in Chicago with a commercial and residential tree care company. There, she worked as a groundsperson, plant healthcare technician, tree climber, and consulting arborist for. She then transitioned to a technical trainer role in Portland focusing on plant diagnostics, educating arborists about responsible integrated pest management practices, and planning for invasive pests. A part-time instructor at Portland Community College, she is in line to be the next president of the Pacific Northwest Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture. 

Elderbrock and Gonen are moving into permanent positions with ODF after serving as specialists outreaching to local communities on emerald ash borer preparation and management. 

Elderbrock grew up in Wisconsin but now lives in Eugene. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Geology from Macalester College in Minnesota, he worked briefly for the Minnesota Geological Survey. He then spent four years as a field ecology instructor in Maine and California. He later earned a master’s degree in Environment Studies from the University of Oregon (UO. That’s also where he completed his doctorate in Landscape Architecture in 2023. 

Lilah Gonen has bachelor’s degrees in Forestry and Geography from the University of California, Berkeley, and a master’s in Botany and Plant Pathology from Oregon State University. Before joining ODF, Gonnen did invasive insect surveying and eradication work with the Oregon Dept. of Agriculture, and urban forestry and wetland restoration work with the City of Gresham. Gonnen specializes in forest pathology and invasive species management, including sudden oak death, Swiss needle cast, Japanese beetle, emerald ash borer, and various weeds. 

“I’m eager to have such a well-qualified team to assist communities better manage their tree resources, including helping them inventory the trees they have and inputting the data into the TreePlotter Inventory System,” said Altenhoff.

Thanks to a federal grant, Altenhoff said ODF is able to offer the tree inventory software free to Oregon cities and towns. “The advantage is that everyone can compare their trees to every other community in Oregon using the software. This will help us get a better understanding of what trees are doing well where, and which are struggling. This improves our ability to make region-specific recommendations on what to plant. It also helps cities and towns see more precisely what their risk from tree pests and diseases is.” 

Altenhoff said he sees increased opportunities for partnering with communities on important initiatives, especially with $26.6 million in new federal funds coming to Oregon from the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 

“Later this spring we expect to call for applications from community-based organizations, something our new grants administrator Hilary Olivos-Rood will be handling.”

Olivos-Rood moves into her new position after five years serving as the agency's administrator for the Board of Forestry and rulemaking coordinator. She also sits on ODF’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council. Before her time with ODF, she worked in Risk Management at the Department of Administrative Services. She holds a bachelor's degree in communication studies with a minor in civic engagement.

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Attached Media Files: The Oregon Dept. of Forestry has expanded its urban forestry team to better serve cities and towns across the state.

Oregon Community Trees seeks poster presentations on trees and housing case studies for urban forestry conference (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/27/24 2:50 PM
Oregon Community Trees is seeking poster presentations about trees and housing to display at the June 27 urban forestry conference in Eugene. Deadline is May 24.
Oregon Community Trees is seeking poster presentations about trees and housing to display at the June 27 urban forestry conference in Eugene. Deadline is May 24.
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EUGENE, Ore. – Oregon Community Trees (OCT) is inviting students and organizations to submit abstracts on case studies or research to present as a poster presentation at this year’s Oregon Urban Forestry conference. The conference is being held on Thursday, June 27 in Eugene at Venue 252. This year’s theme is “More Housing, More Trees: Giving Oregonians Both.”

OCT is organizing the conference, which is co-sponsored by the Oregon Dept. of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service. Presentations can be about successes in preserving large, healthy shade trees or room to plant them on residential or commercial properties that were developed or redeveloped with an increased density level. Also sought are presentations about methods of tree preservation during construction, ideas for redesigning streets and right-of-way planting strips to make room for larger trees, and similar concepts.

Posters are limited to 30” x 40”. All selected posters will be displayed at the conference. To be considered for selection you must be able to attend the conference and be on hand to answer questions from people visiting the poster display area during breaks, the lunch hour, and the social hour following the conference. Discount tickets for students are available for $80 (includes lunch). Some scholarships are available for those who can submit a statement of financial need.

Submissions should be sent via 2024 UCF Conference Poster Application Form no later than Friday, May 17th by 5:00 p.m. 

Please reach out to Samantha Wolf at sammwolf@gmail.com for any questions or concerns. 

Posters can be set up the day before the conference on Wednesday, June 26 from noon to 4:30 p.m. All poster presenters are expected to register for the conference. Poster presenters can go online at oregoncommunitytrees.org to register and get information about the Conference and the Poster Presentations. 

You must be registered by the early registration deadline of May 25th, 2024.




Attached Media Files: Oregon Community Trees is seeking poster presentations about trees and housing to display at the June 27 urban forestry conference in Eugene. Deadline is May 24.

Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee meets April 8
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/26/24 9:09 AM

SALEM, Ore. — The Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee will meet virtually on Monday, April 8, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

  • Welcome and introductions
  • CBM website updates
  • CBM rule revisions
  • Training providers and curriculum development
  • Instructor guide
  • Field certification books
  • Updates
    • Past and future course deliveries
    • Legislation
    • ODF prescribed fire policy development

The meeting is open to the public to attend virtually. There will be a period for public comment. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting y.berry@odf.oregon.gov">Shelby Berry at 503-949-5181.

View more information on the CBMAC webpage.


Six Oregon communities receive grants from Oregon Community Trees to boost Arbor Month celebrations (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/25/24 10:29 AM
A dozen Oregon white oak trees like this one will be planted in Lake Oswego thanks to a grant from Oregon Community Trees. Five other Oregon cities from Redmond to Rogue River and Dallas to Pendleton are also getting small grants coinciding with Oregon Arbor Month in April.
A dozen Oregon white oak trees like this one will be planted in Lake Oswego thanks to a grant from Oregon Community Trees. Five other Oregon cities from Redmond to Rogue River and Dallas to Pendleton are also getting small grants coinciding with Oregon Arbor Month in April.
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SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Community Trees (OCT) is helping boost Oregon Arbor Month celebrations in six Oregon communities this year thanks to grants the non-profit organization is giving out this spring. Holding a public celebration of Arbor Day is a condition for maintaining Tree City USA status from the national Arbor Day Foundation. 

OCT Board member Morgan Holen coordinates the grant giving. She said Tree City USA communities receiving grants from OCT this year are:

  • Coburg
  • Dallas
  • Lake Oswego
  • Pendleton
  • Redmond
  • Rogue River

“We’re happy to be funding Arbor Day events in every part of the state from the Willamette Valley to eastern and southern Oregon,” said Holen. “These events build awareness of the importance of trees to communities and engage residents in direct, memorable ways that build support for urban forests.”

Holen said grants range from $350 to $720. The smallest grant goes to buy commemorative T-shirts for Coburg elementary school tree planters. The largest goes to Lake Oswego to buy 12 Oregon white oak trees to be planted in the Woodmont Natural Area. The planting will help replace trees lost in the wake of the January 2024 wind and ice storm.

This is the first year the City of Dallas is receiving a grant. OCT is fully funding the City’s request to offer free to the public two, 2-hour sessions of “forest bathing” – stress-reduction led by a Certified Forest Therapy Guide in a forest setting in Delbert Hunter Arboretum.

Rogue River will use its grant to buy a Japanese snowbell tree, shovels, rakes, a reusable canopy and children’s art contest supplies and take‐home gifts for a tree-planting ceremony at the city arboretum in Palmerton Park. 

Pendleton is using its grant to purchase larger and more diverse species of trees seedling than ever to distribute at its annual Arbor Day tree seedling giveaway. The City estimates around 500 participants will attend their event. 

The City of Redmond is also receiving an OCT grant for the first time. Redmond will hold a fuels-reduction work party in the Dry Canyon City Park, and will use OCT funds to buy T-shirts with a juniper-themed educational design for Heart of Oregon volunteer youth during the event.

About Oregon Community Trees

Oregon Community Trees is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 whose mission is to promote healthy urban and community forests through leadership, education, awareness, and advocacy. OCT serves as the Oregon Dept. of Forestry’s advisory board on urban forestry issues.

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Attached Media Files: A dozen Oregon white oak trees like this one will be planted in Lake Oswego thanks to a grant from Oregon Community Trees. Five other Oregon cities from Redmond to Rogue River and Dallas to Pendleton are also getting small grants coinciding with Oregon Arbor Month in April.

Tsunami Awareness Week is March 24 to 30: Be prepared!
Oregon Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries - 03/25/24 4:30 PM

PORTLAND, Ore. – Exploring the Oregon coast this spring break? Take time to plan for an earthquake and tsunami before your adventure.     

March marks the anniversaries of two significant earthquake and tsunami disasters that impacted the Oregon coast: the March 11, 2011, Tohoku event in Japan and the March 27, 1964, Alaska megathrust earthquake and tsunami. Both events produced ‘distant’ tsunami that were triggered thousands of miles away, but eventually reached the Oregon coast ~9.5 and 4 hours after the earthquakes, respectively. Because those earthquakes occurred far from Oregon, Oregonians would not have felt the ground shaking prior to the arrival of their associated tsunami. 

Of greater concern on the Oregon and Washington coasts is a locally generated megathrust earthquake and tsunami triggered by movement along the Cascadia Subduction Zone, located ~50 miles offshore. In such an event, residents and visitors will feel strong ground shaking, potentially lasting several minutes, prior to the arrival of a tsunami that would reach the Oregon coast between 10-30 minutes later. “A Cascadia subduction zone earthquake could happen anytime – even during vacations,” says Oregon State Geologist Ruarri Day-Stirrat. “Plan now to be ready no matter where you are.” DOGAMI scientist Jonathan Allan adds: “The recent Tohoku Japan earthquake and tsunami showed us how destructive a locally generated subduction zone earthquake and tsunami could be, and that Oregonians need to be prepared for its eventuality.” 

Residents and visitors can prepare for tsunami by becoming familiar with Oregon’s tsunami evacuation maps, developed by DOGAMI. The maps are available at the Oregon Tsunami Clearinghouse (https://www.oregontsunami.org) and viewable online using the Nanoos viewer (https://nvs.nanoos.org/TsunamiEvac). The maps provide information about potential tsunami inundation zones for both distant and local tsunamis and information about how fast people need to travel to reach high ground and “beat the wave.” 

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management encourages individuals, families, and communities to take steps to “Be 2 Weeks Ready” for any emergency or disaster, including earthquakes and tsunami. Being 2 Weeks Ready means having an emergency plan and enough supplies for you and everyone in your household, including pets, to survive for at least two weeks after a disaster. It also means being informed: Review available information about earthquakes and tsunami from state and local sources, sign up to receive local emergency alerts at https://oralert.gov/, and make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are activated on your mobile phone. 

Additional resources to help Oregonians learn about earthquakes and associated hazards: 

Oregon Tsunami Clearinghouse: Access to a wide variety of tsunami information, including evacuation maps, maritime brochures, educational materials, and planning guidance. https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/tsuclearinghouse/Pages/default.aspx

NANOOS Tsunami Evacuation Zones: Tsunami evacuation zone maps along the Oregon and Washington coasts.  https://nvs.nanoos.org/TsunamiEvac

Oregon Department of Emergency Management:  Learn more about what to do in event of an earthquake, and find advice and guides on how individuals, communities, and businesses can prepare.  https://www.oregon.gov/oem/hazardsprep/pages/earthquakes.aspx

ShakeAlert:  An early-alert system that can send notifications to mobile devices and emergency alert systems in the event of a potentially damaging earthquake. https://www.shakealert.org/ 

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OHA Reproductive Health Program launches Abortion Access website
Oregon Health Authority - 03/26/24 10:32 AM

March 26, 2024

Media Contact: Larry Bingham, 971-239-6499, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA Reproductive Health Program launches Abortion Access website

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Reproductive Health Program at Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has launched a new website that makes it easier for people to seek abortion care information and services.

The Abortion Access in Oregon website, viewable at oregon.gov/abortion, includes webpages and links with current and accurate information about accessing abortion services in Oregon, including:

  • Information About Abortion – Describes different types of abortion services, including some frequently asked questions.
  • Legal Rights and Privacy – Explains people’s legal and privacy rights to abortion in Oregon.
  • Where to Get an Abortion – Includes a list of abortion providers in Oregon, as well as resources for accessing abortion services outside of Oregon.
  • Paying for an Abortion – Provides information about different options to help cover the cost of abortion services.
  • Abortion Access Plan – Describes OHA’s program to cover abortion services for people who have health insurance through Providence, or whose religious employers provide insurance that does not cover abortion.
  • Abortion Support – Includes resources for travel and other related support, as well as resources related to emotional support before, during and after an abortion.

“The new Abortion Access in Oregon website helps us reaffirm to people in Oregon that abortion remains legal and protected in our state, and that anyone who comes to our state for an abortion, regardless of immigration status, has the legal and protected right to that abortion service, not just Oregon residents,” Governor Tina Kotek said.

“As challenges to women's reproductive freedom mount across the country, OHA remains staunchly committed to protecting access to the full range of reproductive health care -- including and especially abortion, fertility services, and contraception -- for all those who live in and visit our state,” said OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi. “The foundation of access is knowledge: of your rights, of available services, of the nuts and bolts of obtaining care. This website takes us one step closer to sharing that knowledge, and enabling greater access to protected care.”

The Abortion Access in Oregon website was created in collaboration with community, clinical and state partners to ensure the information it contains is relevant to, and accessible for, people seeking abortion care in Oregon.

OHA’s Reproductive Health Program, based at the state Public Health Division, has asked community, clinical and state partners to share the website link with their colleagues and staffs, as well as with community members and patients they serve.

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Oregon Outdoor Recreation Committee meets April 2 to evaluate grant applications
Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept. - 03/22/24 1:07 PM

Salem, OR—The Oregon Outdoor Recreation Committee (OORC) will meet 9 a.m., April 2, to rank and establish a priority list of Land and Water Conservation Fund grant proposals submitted from throughout the state. The proposals are for projects to develop and rehabilitate public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. 

The meeting is open to the public, but there will not be time for public comments. 

The meeting will be held in person at 725 Summer Street NE, Room 124A, Salem, OR 97301. For those unable to attend in person, a Zoom meeting option is available. 

Attend via Zoom (no registration required):
Online: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89598640948?pwd=ZxKl4x8n9HS5T1PW4JS3K8CpLBavt0.1
Passcode: 007105

View the agenda for a list of project proposals and additional meeting information: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/gra/pages/gra-lwcf.aspx . Select the 2023-2024 Schedule link.     

Recommendations from the OORC will be submitted to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for review and approval at their April meeting. OPRD will then forward approved project proposals to the National Park Service for final approval. 

The OORC is made up of nine members who represent a variety of interests and are appointed by the OPRD director.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund Program is a financial assistance program of the National Park Service. LWCF grants provide matching funds to state and local governments for acquiring and developing public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) administers this federally funded grant program for the state.

For more information contact Nohemi Enciso, LWCF Grant Program Coordinator, at 503-480-9092 or nohemi.enciso@oprd.oregon.gov, or visit the LWCF webpage on the OPRD website.


Counties/Regional
Listen to Episode 9 of Benton County Public Podcast! (Photo)
Benton Co. Government - 03/28/24 9:20 AM
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The Benton County Public Podcast is pleased to announce the release of Episode 9, now available for streaming and download. This episode delves into diverse topics about our community to foster dialogue and understanding.

Listen to Episode 9 of the Benton County Public Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/bentonpublicpodcast 

Episode 9 features a lineup that includes:

  • An interview with podcast producer Dan Crall hiking with the new Benton County Administrator Rachel McEneny, offering insights into her personal experiences and perspective as a new leader in Benton County.
  • The proclamation of Black History Month highlights the County's dedication to acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of Black Americans to our shared heritage.
  • A narrative about the Benton County Historic Courthouse Bell Tower, weaving together history, tradition, and the essence of community.
  • A special acknowledgment gathering for Benton County’s new website, expressing gratitude to the dedicated crew behind the scenes who make our digital presence possible.

Alongside these engaging segments, listeners will find Public Service Announcements for the community's benefit.

The Benton County Public Podcast provides a platform for deeper exploration of topics that matter most to our community. We invite everyone to listen, reflect, and engage with us. Your feedback is important to us, and we encourage you to share your thoughts by contacting pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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




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Benton County Commissioners to proclaim April 1-7 Public Health Week - Los Comisionados del Condado de Benton proclamarán la Semana de la Salud Pública del 1 al 7 de abril (Photo)
Benton Co. Government - 03/27/24 7:35 AM
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On Tuesday, April 2, Benton County Commissioners will proclaim April 1-7, 2024, Public Health Week in Benton County to celebrate the 29th year of National Public Health Week. This year’s theme is “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health.”

Benton County’s observance celebrates the leadership, dedication, and innovation of many partners throughout the county, including the County Health Department, other local jurisdictions, community-based organizations, health systems, and many more.

“We know that we can’t do this work alone. We rely on strong partnerships with community-based organizations and diverse community members who help make this work possible,” said Benton County Commissioner Chair, Xanthippe Augerot.

The proclamation reading will take place during the regularly scheduled Board of Commissioners Meeting at 9:00 am on Tuesday, April 2. The community is invited to attend in person at the Benton County Kalapuya building, virtually via Zoom, or via livestream through Facebook. All meeting details can be found on the County website at: https://boc.bentoncountyor.gov/events/april-2-2024-tuesday-board-meeting/

The timing of Public Health Week coincides with the release of the Robert Wood Johnson County Health Rankings and Roadmap 2024 National Findings Report. These rankings look at different factors and conditions that affect the health and well-being of county residents and are made up of four categories: health behavior, clinical care, social and economic factors, and physical environment.

According to the rankings, Benton County is faring better than the average county in the nation for health factors and outcomes. While the rankings are positive, Benton County is committed to focusing on the many opportunities to work on improving the health for all people who live, work, and play in Benton County, particularly for marginalized populations and for those who experience difficulty achieving optimal health.

Sara Hartstein, Interim Deputy Director of Public Health at Benton County said, “We have a lot of work to do! While the efforts of the Health Department are vital to sustaining and improving community health, it takes every person in Benton County to bring compassion, expertise, innovation, and care to our community.”

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El martes 2 de abril, los Comisionados del Condado de Benton proclamarán del 1 al 7 de abril de 2024 la Semana de la Salud Pública en el Condado de Benton para celebrar el 29.º año de la Semana Nacional de la Salud Pública. El tema de este año es "Proteger, conectar y prosperar: todos somos salud pública".

Este evento en el Condado de Benton celebra el liderazgo, la dedicación y la innovación de muchos socios en todo el condado, incluido el Departamento de Salud del condado, otras jurisdicciones locales, organizaciones comunitarias, sistemas de salud y muchos más.

“Sabemos que no podemos hacer este trabajo solos. Dependemos de sólidas relaciones con organizaciones y diversos miembros de la comunidad que ayudan a hacer posible este trabajo”, dijo el Presidente de los Comisionado del Condado de Benton, Xanthippe Augerot.

La lectura de la proclamación se llevará a cabo durante la reunión regular de la Junta de Comisionados a las 9:00 am del martes 2 de abril. Se invita a la comunidad a asistir en persona en el edificio Kalapuya del Condado de Benton, o virtualmente a través de Zoom o mediante la transmisión en vivo a través de Facebook. Todos los detalles de la reunión se pueden encontrar en el sitio web del condado en: https://boc.bentoncountyor.gov/events/april-2-2024-tuesday-board-meeting/

 La Semana de la Salud Pública coincide con la publicación del Informe Nacional de Resultados de la Hoja de Ruta y las Clasificaciones de Salud del Condado de Robert Wood Johnson 2024. Estas clasificaciones analizan diferentes factores y condiciones que afectan la salud y el bienestar de los residentes del condado y se componen de cuatro categorías: comportamiento de salud, atención clínica, factores sociales y económicos y entorno físico.

Según las clasificaciones, al Condado de Benton le está yendo mejor que al condado promedio del país en cuanto a factores y resultados de salud. Si bien las clasificaciones son positivas, el Condado de Benton se compromete a centrarse en las muchas oportunidades de trabajar para mejorar la salud de todas las personas que viven, trabajan y juegan en el Condado de Benton, particularmente para las poblaciones marginadas y para aquellos que experimentan dificultades para lograr una salud óptima.

Sara Hartstein, Subdirectora Interina de Salud Pública del Condado de Benton, dijo: “¡Tenemos mucho trabajo por hacer! Si bien los esfuerzos del Departamento de Salud son vitales para mantener y mejorar la salud de la comunidad, se necesita que cada persona en el Condado de Benton aporte compasión, experiencia, innovación y atención a nuestra comunidad”.

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




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03-27-24 Commissioners Issue Proclamation for Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day (Photo)
Douglas Co. Government - 03/27/24 5:30 PM
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 27, 2024

 

Commissioners Issue Proclamation for

Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day

 

(Douglas County, Ore.) – Douglas County Commissioners Chris Boice, Tim Freeman, and Tom Kress were honored to be part of the Roseburg VA Health Care System’s Vietnam War Commemoration 50th Pinning Ceremony held today, Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at the Douglas County Fairgrounds.  A copy of the video presentation of the entire ceremony can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment.

 

The special Roseburg VA Vietnam War Commemoration 50th Pinning Ceremony included the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Display; an opening prayer by Roseburg VA Chaplain Dwayne Brown; presentation of the colors by the United States Coast Guard; singing of the national anthem by the Coco Pella Quintet; opening remarks by Roseburg VA Health Care System (RVAHCS) Executive Director, Patrick Hull; a key note speech by Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA) Director, Dr. Nakeia Daniels; a proclamation presentation by Douglas County Board of Commissioners Board Chair, Commissioner Chris Boice; pinning ceremony honoring 136 local Vietnam Veterans (plus an additional 40 Vietnam Veterans at the inpatient facility at the Roseburg VA); and the ceremonial playing of taps on the cornet followed by a 21 gun salute performed by representatives from the Umpqua Valley Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Chapter #805

 

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners proclamation was presented by Commissioner Boice, on behalf of all three commissioners and proclaimed Friday, March 29, 2024, as Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day in Douglas County. It honors with somber reflection the United States of America’s 13-year Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War which will continue through 2025. The proclamation encouraged all citizens to rightfully honor and thank our Vietnam Veterans and their families for their bravery, courageous military service, and sacrifice.  Following the reading, Commissioner Boice, Commissioner Freeman and Commissioner Kress presented proclamation certificates to Umpqua Valley VVA Chapter #805 Board of Directors, Bill Duncan, Bill Mixon, Roger Boucock, Terry Weekly and Lonnie Shields. 

 

"The Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day commemoration is a vow that we as a nation will never again confuse personal disapproval of war with prejudice against those who honorably wear the uniform of our U.S. Armed Forces. With conviction, we pledge our enduring respect, our continuing care, and our everlasting commitment to all Vietnam veterans who were denied a proper welcome home upon returning to U.S. soil more than 50 years ago," stated Commissioner Boice.

 

Vietnam Veterans in attendance at the special Vietnam War Commemoration 50th Pinning Ceremony today were presented with a commemorative pin and welcomed home by a legion of honored guests including ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Daniels, RVAHCS Director Patrick Hull, RVAHCS Acting Associate Director Kelly Bowman, Douglas County Commissioner Chris Boice, Douglas County Commissioner Tim Freeman, Douglas County Commissioner Tom Kress, and Douglas County Sheriff John Hanlin.

 

The Vietnam War Commemoration 50th Pinning Ceremony concluded with a sincere message from RVAHCS Director Hull and expressed hope, honor, and tribute to our all veterans and their families.  The Commissioners truly and sincerely Welcome Home our Vietnam Veterans.  The Douglas County Commissioners would like to thank the Roseburg VA for inviting them to be part of this amazing ceremony honoring our Vietnam Veterans. 

 

To learn more about the United States of America’s 13-year Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War visit https://www.vietnamwar50th.com/.

 

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell | Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Public Information Officer | Phone: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

 

Proclamation Attached. Photos © K.Trenkle/Douglas County. Individual photos available upon request.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/6789/171089/2024_Welcome_Home_VV_Day_Collage_cc.jpg

Trauma Intervention Programs of Lane County Needs Volunteers
Lane Co. Government - 03/27/24 7:41 PM

Trauma Intervention Programs of Lane County (TIP) is actively recruiting for volunteers. TIP volunteers are called by law enforcement, fire, medical and hospital personnel to respond to scenes of sudden or unexpected death (natural, homicide, suicide, accidental, infant) industrial accidents, sexual assaults, overdoses, violent crime and other traumatic incidents to provide immediate emotional and practical support to families, friends, witnesses and survivors. By ensuring those who are emotionally traumatized in emergencies receive the immediate assistance they need, TIP volunteers make an invaluable contribution to the health and well-being of Lane County. 

TIP wants volunteers of all different backgrounds who can pass a background check and are interested in helping provide needed support alongside first responders. For those interested in becoming a volunteer, TIP is holding a series of spring training opportunities dubbed the TIP Training Academy. The Academy is held at Eugene Police Department, located at 300 Country Club Road in Eugene. A full list of Academy training times is available below, or on the TIP website, www.tiplanecounty.org

For more information or to sign-up for an Academy training time, please contact Bridget Byfield, Director, TIP of Lane County at bridget@tiplanecounty.org or 541-286-6416.

 

TIP Spring Training Academy

The Academy is held at Eugene Police Dept.

300 Country Club Road, Eugene

 

 Thursday.......April 4..................6:30 pm -09:30 pm

Friday...........April 5..................6:00 pm -09:00 pm

Saturday.......April 6..................9:00 am -05:00 pm

Sunday..........April 7..................9:00 am -02:00 pm

Wednesday....April 10................6:00 pm -09:00 pm

Thursday.......April 11................6:00 pm -09:00 pm

Friday...........April 12................6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Saturday.......April 13................9:00 am - 03:00 pm


Lane County bringing back updated equity advisory board
Lane Co. Government - 03/27/24 7:30 AM

The Lane County Equity Program is restarting its community advisory board and is recruiting members. The new Equity Program Advisory Board (EPAB) will help carry out the County’s three-year equity strategic plan and connect the community to those efforts. Applications are due by Monday, April 8

 

“The new advisory board relies on community members who are passionate about contributing their skills and insights to this collaborative effort,” said Lane County Equity Program Analyst Shayna Higashi. “Whether people are passionate about equity, have related experience, or want to actively participate in shaping our community's future, their involvement will be invaluable.” 

 

The EPAB will play an important role in bridging the community with the County’s initiatives by bringing together people who can help cultivate inclusive engagement and drive positive change in Lane County. 

 

Advisory Board Details: 

  • Committee Name: Equity Program Advisory Board
  • Purpose: Collaborate with the County Administrator and the Equity Program on the adoption and implementation of the three-year equity strategic plan.
  • Meeting Schedule: At least quarterly or as needed and as determined by members.
  • Applications Due: Monday, April 8, at 5:00 p.m.
  • Application Form: Available online.

 

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Last week for students to enter Elections coloring contest
Lane Co. Government - 03/26/24 8:30 AM

In need of an easy activity for a rainy spring break day? Have your student participate in the Lane County Elections “I Voted” coloring contest!

 

Local students, kindergarten through college, are invited to create an “I Voted” coloring page for the Lane County Elections Office.

 

Four winning entries will be used to create a coloring page that will accompany ballots for the November 5, 2024 Presidential Election. 

 

“I’m excited about this creative way for Lane County voters to celebrate voting,” said Lane County Clerk Dena Dawson. “I can’t wait to see what students come up with and I hope we blow up social media in November with the colorful versions voters create.” 

 

There are four categories for student submissions:

  • Category 1: Kindergarten–5th Grade
  • Category 2: 6th Grade–8th Grade
  • Category 3: 9th Grade–12th Grade
  • Category 4: College or vocational school students

 

Submissions are due by April 1, 2024 and may be provided by email, mail or in-person. All entries must be submitted on the official entry form and must be signed by a parent or guardian if the entrant is under 18 years old. 

 

Submissions must be original artwork and on a plain white background with black outlines so voters can color the artwork in November and share on social media using #LaneCountyVotes. 

 

The entry form and more detail about how to submit artwork can be found at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/elections under the “I Voted Coloring Contest” section. 

 

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Lane County grant supports Bi-Mart's new battery recycling program (Photo)
Lane Co. Government - 03/26/24 8:00 AM
Battery recycling station 2
Battery recycling station 2
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Additional photos and video available for media use at https://ow.ly/fxOy50R0bWY 

 

Lane County-based Bi-Mart stores have launched a new 12-month pilot program that will provide households with a convenient and accessible way to safely recycle their batteries.

 

The initiative—which will effectively retrain the public on properly identifying and responsibly managing a new generation of batteries—is supported by a $6,000 grant provided by Lane County. 

 

Project funding will help Bi-Mart train its employees on battery identification, handling, and processing; purchase containers for battery collection, storage, and safe shipping; and market program information and educational materials for its customers. The pilot program accepts many single-use batteries, including widely used button and coin cell batteries, and most rechargeable batteries. 

 

Alkaline batteries should go in the trash.

 

“Recycling batteries makes a lot of business and environmental sense as batteries contain many metals needed for lithium-ion battery production— which is critical for things like electric vehicle adoption,” said Maya Buelow, Lane County waste reduction specialist. “Additionally, improper battery disposal can create health and safety risks, including fires that damage critical waste management infrastructure and put folks at risk.”

 

This new partnership with Bi-Mart will empower residents with educational materials that make battery recycling much easier and accessible said Michael Bassell, a buyer with Bi-Mart. 

 

“We here at Bi-mart are proud of our 20 years being a 100 percent employee-owned company,” said Bassell. “The recent launch of our battery recycling program in Lane County is just one aspect of how we can impact the communities we serve. We look forward to growing our sustainability impact in the Pacific Northwest.”

 

For a list of all the participating Bi-Mart stores, visit www.LaneCountyOR.gov/HazWaste.

 

About Waste Wise Lane County

WasteWise Lane County—a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—offers education, tools, and resources that residents, schools, and businesses can use to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. Learn more at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/wastewise.

 

About Bi-Mart

Bi-Mart is a proud, Northwest-only, employee-owned membership store. The business prides itself on providing real value, every day, and being “just right” for the Northwest. Bi-Mart is pleased to announce that 2024 is its 20th anniversary of being employee owned. Learn more at www.bimart.com

 

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Attached Media Files: Battery recycling station 2 , Battery recycling station 1

Courts/District Attorneys
Portland Area Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to Federal Prison
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 03/27/24 3:39 PM

PORTLAND, Ore.—A local drug trafficker who sourced large quantities of fentanyl from out-of-state contacts with ties to Mexican cartels for redistribution and sale in the Portland area and directed the transport and sale of firearms was sentenced to federal prison today.

Francisco Moncada, 28, who maintained residences in Portland and Vancouver, Washington, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, in October 2021, special agents from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Portland District Office began investigating a drug trafficking organization operating in the Portland area and parts of Washington State. In April 2022, investigators learned that Moncada, who was later determined to be a manager within the drug trafficking organization, was communicating with multiple Portland area drug traffickers to discuss fentanyl sourcing.

On April 18, 2022, law enforcement officers stopped a vehicle being used by Moncada and several associates to transport approximately 15 pounds of fentanyl. Just under two weeks later, on April 28, 2022, officers stopped Moncada a second time and seized an additional 10 pounds of fentanyl. Within days, investigators also obtained information that Moncada had instructed other members of his organization to sell various firearms.

On May 20, 2022, investigators searched Moncada’s Portland and Vancouver residences and seized seven firearms and two pounds of fentanyl. Between October 2021 and August 2022, investigators located and seized 50 pounds of fentanyl, 40 pounds of methamphetamine, and smaller quantities of cocaine, heroin, and marijuana from Moncada and his associates, and made 16 arrests connected to their organization.

On May 21, 2022, Moncada and three others were charged my federal criminal complaint with conspiring with one another to possess and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl. On June 14, 2022, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Moncada and eight associates for conspiring with one another to distribute fentanyl. Moncada was also charged with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On December 20, 2023, Moncada became the tenth member of his organization to plead guilty and, today, becomes the seventh member to be sentenced to federal prison. Four others are awaiting sentencing and one is a fugitive.

This case was investigated by DEA with assistance from the FBI Vancouver Resident Agency, Vancouver Police Department, Oregon State Police, Oregon City Police Department and Washington State Department of Corrections. It was prosecuted by Bryan Chinwuba, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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

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Attached Media Files: PDF Release

Colleges & Universities - Public
Western Oregon University alum highlights social work career (Photo)
Western Oregon University - 03/27/24 11:52 AM
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MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to highlight the accomplishments of alumnus Michael Waller ‘08. Waller received a bachelor’s degree in social science from Western, leading him to a career in social work.

Western introduced Waller to his two passions which are acting and sociology. Waller shares that he always knew he wanted to help people and while at Western,  learned there were a multitude of avenues he could take. Currently, he is a school social worker at McDaniel High School in Portland and a working actor. 

“One of the biggest things I learned at Western was to take chances. I did not believe that I could get into some of the things I’m into today. I was introduced to some staff at Western who really challenged me,” shared Waller. “They challenged me to have critical thinking and I wouldn’t be where I’m at without it. I recommend Western to everyone.” 

Waller’s story is a testament to Western’s commitment to supporting students in discovering and following their passions. His dedication to supporting youth through social work exemplifies the impactful contributions that Western alumni make to society, showcasing the values of compassion, leadership, and excellence instilled by their alma mater.

Watch Michael Waller’s success story

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About Western Oregon University

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

https://wou.edu/2024/03/27/western-oregon-university-alum-highlights-social-work-career/




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1107/171069/Michael_Waller_PR.png

Colleges & Universities - Willamette Valley
We Believe The Women - Mary and the Lamb (Photo)
Bushnell University - 03/27/24 10:54 AM
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Mary and the Lamb

A.J. Swoboda, Ph.D. 

 

Easter has a way of rushing right past us. But it is most certainly beneficial for us to use this beautiful Spring season as a chance to pause, reflect, and remember. Remember what? Easter is the time of year when Christians from around the globe and from countless traditions and cultures come together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. Easter, the Puritans cleverly put it, is the ‘death of death’ by the work of Christ. Despite the sacredness of this season, it always seems just to run on by us. This was particularly clear when I pastored a Christian church in my younger years. What struck me, year after year, was how busy life around the congregation became around Easter—especially the schedule of a pastor. Somewhere along the way I’d written in my journal how unprepared I was for the administrative work resurrection seems to create. 

 

In the ancient stories of the first Easter—in the gospel of John—we find that, indeed, things seem to move faster on Easter. The Apostle has a cluster of references to how things sped up at the twilight of that new morning. Mary Magdalene, we are told, came “running” (Jn 20.2) to the apostles to declare the tomb was no longer occupied. Soon after, Simon and John come “running” (v. 4) to the tomb to see for themselves. In what can only be interpreted as biblical trash talk, John even comments that he “outran” (v. 4) Peter to the tomb. Things seem to speed up that first Easter morning. It is as though new life is in the air.

 

The pinnacle moment in the account comes as Mary returns to the tomb after proclaiming the first Easter message to the apostles. There, she stands outside the tomb, afraid, sad, defeated. Jesus’ body was nowhere to be found. Coming out of the tomb, she finds a man—unknown to her—standing outside the tomb. She is unaware of who this man is. That is until he speaks her name:

 

“Mary.”

 

Many who have written on this account say that this is the moment in history that time goes from BCE to CE. At this moment, her eyes were opened to who she was speaking to. It wasn’t some random onlooker at the tomb. The unknown man was Jesus himself. 

 

Many ridicule Christians for believing this message. A particular school of white, German scholars—beginning in the 18th century—gave their academic energy to rob this story of its miraculous wonder and power. The resurrection, they claimed, could only be a myth. Sure, we can learn from Jesus. But there is no way that the resurrection happened—they claimed. 

 

But remember, it was the women who first saw the resurrection. And it was the women who proclaimed its reality to the world. In an ancient context where women were rarely (if ever) believed—often being barred from serving as ‘witnesses’ even in a legal setting—it is remarkable that the earliest Christian community would hang their most important witness on the words of the women who came to the tomb. So, who are we to believe? A group of German demythologizers from the 18th century? Or these humble and often disbelieved Jewish women? It has been, and continues to be, the belief among recognizable Christians that the women are to be believed. Their testimony is true. 

 

And it is still true. 

 

As historians and scholars often point out, it is remarkable how utterly incompetent and foolish the male disciples look in the Easter account. While they are terrified in a hidden house somewhere with their door locked, it is the women who first go to the tomb and come back with the news of its emptiness. If Christianity were nothing more than a patriarchal religion seeking to prop up the power and prestige of the men, then the Easter narratives in the gospel fail at their task. 

 

It is the women who first come to the tomb. Women like Mary. The minute she heard her name, she believed. She won’t recognize Jesus until he speaks her name. And, upon hearing her name, realizes it is, indeed, Jesus—her Lord. Everything slows down as she hears her name, “Mary.” This is the most crucial moment in history. And for us. One New Testament scholar by the name of Thomas Schmidt speaks to this very moment: “There is a curious and important detail in this story that is the main point. Mary didn’t recognize the risen Jesus until he called her by name. Everywhere that Mary went the Lamb was sure to go.”

 

He goes with us too—hidden, watching, present, with our name on his lips. Or, go to that story after the resurrection as two unnamed disciples walk to Emmaus. Just as with Mary, Jesus is with them—but they’re unaware. The problem for us, then, is not the event. It is the busyness around the event. What if, for just a moment, you stopped to enter that empty tomb yourself? What would you find? You’ll find that it is still empty. 

 

And that the guy standing outside the tomb of our own lives has your name on his lips. 

 

About A.J. Swoboda 

A. J. Swoboda (PhD, University of Birmingham) is assistant professor of Bible and theology at Bushnell University. He also leads the Doctor of Ministry Program in Formation and Soul Care at Friends University. He hosts the Slow Theology podcast and Low-Level Theologian on Substack. He is the author of a number of books, including the award-winning Subversive Sabbath. His most recent book Gift of Thorns was just released. He is married to Quinn and is the proud father of Elliot. They live and work in Eugene, Oregon.

 

About Bushnell University 

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

 

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

 

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Dream It | Do It: A Summer Day Camp to Inspire Future Entrepreneurs
Umpqua Community College - 03/26/24 9:00 AM

ROSEBURG, Ore., Mar. 26, 2024 — The Umpqua Small Business Development Center and Umpqua Community College are thrilled to announce the launch of "Dream It | Do It," a transformative summer day camp designed to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs in Douglas County, Oregon. The application for this free opportunity is now open online and will remain open until Apr. 15, 2024. The camp will take place from June 24-28, 2024, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm daily on the campus of Umpqua Community College.

"Dream It | Do It" is exclusively open to high school juniors (11th grade) currently enrolled in Douglas County, Oregon at the time of application. The camp aims to empower young minds with the belief that the pathway to business ownership simply starts with an idea. In the camp, 25 students will have the unique opportunity to engage with experienced business professionals, coaches, and fellow students while gaining invaluable skills, inspiring one another, and developing real business plans.

"We believe in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of our community's youth," said Isaiah Weiss, camp instructor. "Dream It | Do It is not just a camp; it's an opportunity for students to explore their creativity, develop essential skills, build a professional network and join the local entrepreneurial community."

“The ‘Dream It | Do It’ camp will empower our youth with the skills and confidence needed to pursue innovative ventures while expanding the career possibilities that exist for them in Douglas County,” Christopher Glenn, SBDC Director

 

Key Details:

Applications Accepted: Mar. 15, 2024 – Apr. 15, 2024

Application Eligibility: Current high school juniors in Douglas County, Oregon

Camp Dates: June 24-28, 2024, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm daily

Location: Umpqua Community College

Cost: No cost to attend

Meals: Included

No prior experience necessary

Maximum enrollment: 25 students

 

For more information about "Dream It | Do It," including eligibility criteria and the online application process, please visit umpqua.edu/dream-it


Coos Co. Schools
Special School Board Meeting April 4th and Regular School Board Meeting April 8th
Coos Bay Sch. Dist. - 03/27/24 12:46 PM

Special School Board Meeting with Executive Session

Date: Thursday, April 4th, 2024

Call to Order at 5:30 PM
Location: Virtual 

 

The Coos Bay School District (CBSD) Board of Directors will hold a special school board meeting on Thursday, April 4th at 5:30

 

The CBSD Board of Directors will conduct the meeting virtually via video conference. Members of the public may watch the board meeting live. (Except executive session)

 

Public Input: There will be no public input at this special board meeting.

Agenda: The agenda and packet will be posted HERE before the meeting.

Executive Session: The executive session will be held in accordance with ORS 192.660(2)(a) To consider the employment of a public officer, employee, staff member or individual agent and will be closed to the public.

 

Regular School Board Meeting 

Date: Monday, April 8th, 2024

Call to Order at 6:00 PM
Location: Sunset School Library 

 

The Coos Bay School District (CBSD) Board of Directors will hold a regular school board meeting on April 8th at 6:00 PM. 

 

The CBSD Board of Directors will conduct the meeting in person with video conference option. Members of the public may watch the board meeting live. 

 

Agenda: The agenda and packet will be posted HERE before the meeting.

Public Input: To sign up for public input, e-mail or call the Board Secretary at 541-267-1310 or davenc@coos-bay.k12.or.us. Deadline to sign up for public input is 12:00pm the day of the meeting. Speakers may offer objective criticism of school operations and programs, but the board will not hear personal complaints concerning school personnel nor against any person connected with the school system. The board chair will direct the visitor to the appropriate means for board consideration and disposition of legitimate complaints involving individuals. (Board Policy BDDH)

 

Board Committee Meetings & School Site Council Meeting Schedules – click here 

 

Coos Bay School District meetings are subject to the Public Meetings Law (ORS 192.610-192.710).  Notice of additional meetings will be sent out as necessary. The public is welcome to attend except where noted during executive session. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. Request for other accommodations should be made to Daven Cagley at 541-267-1310 or davenc@coos-bay.k12.or.us

 


Businesses
PacificSource Health Plans Recognized as a Top Workplace in the USA
PacificSource Health Plans - 03/22/24 1:32 PM

 

(Springfield, Ore.) March 22, 2024— PacificSource Health Plans has been awarded a Top Workplaces USA 2024 honor by Energage, a purpose-driven HR technology company, based solely on employee feedback provided through a confidential survey. The survey, conducted by Energage, uniquely measured the employee experience and its components, including 15 culture drivers that are proven to predict high performance against industry benchmarks.

“This national recognition truly belongs to our staff. They are what makes PacificSource such a wonderful and satisfying place to work. I’m honored to be a part of such a great team that works so hard every day to take care of our members, and each other,” said John “Espi” Espinola, president and CEO of PacificSource.

Top Workplaces by Energage is one of the nation’s most credible employer recognition programs informed by 16 years of feedback data from more than 27 million employees across 70,000 organizations in 60 markets. Its purpose is to recognize organizations across the country that have built exceptional workplace cultures.
 

“Earning a Top Workplaces USA award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees. That's something to be proud of,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO.

About PacificSource Health Plans:

Founded in 1933, PacificSource Health Plans is an independent, not-for-profit community health plan with staff that live and work locally to serve our members throughout Idaho, Oregon, Montana, and Washington. The PacificSource family of companies employs more than 1,800 people and serves over 600,000 individuals throughout the Greater Northwest. For more information, visit PacificSource.com.

 

 

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