The Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) conducted a brief interview (linked below) for our media partners Wednesday evening before members of the incident management team (IMT) left for Florida. OSFM IMT member Brett Deedon with Eugene Springfield Fire talks about being mobilized to support the hurricane response efforts in Florida. Deedon and 12 others (13 total) from the OSFM’s three all-hazard incident management teams were mobilized Wednesday and are traveling to Tallahassee, Florida. After arrival, they will receive their mission in supporting those impacted by Hurricane Ian.

VIDEO INTERVIEW: Brett Deedon OSFM IMT PIO

Green power adoption rate draws US Department of Energy ranking

PORTLAND, Ore. – September 28, 2022—Pacific Power’s popular Blue Sky renewable energy program has landed a second place ranking in the US Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) national study. 

NREL recently released its ranking of leading utility green power programs based on 2021 data. For the 20th consecutive year, PacifiCorp’s Blue Sky program – which includes Pacific Power and Rocky Mountain Power customers – is being recognized. 

“Customers are choosing to make an impact by supporting additional renewable energy and local community projects through Blue Sky,” said Cory Scott, vice president of customer & community solutions. “We’re immensely proud of our Blue Sky participants for achieving this national recognition.”

Pacific Power Blue Sky participation consistently increases about six percent year over year. Continued participation growth is anticipated as increasing numbers of customers choose to support renewable energy.

“Our Blue Sky participants voluntarily support this program to help bring renewable energy awareness into the forefront of everyday life and lead the way toward a more robust renewable energy future,” said Scott. 

PacifiCorp scored second in the top 10 list by green power sales and customers based on December 2021 data. 

How Blue Sky works

Blue Sky allows participants to match their energy usage with the purchase of renewable energy credits (RECs). It’s an effortless way for participants to support renewable energy in the West, above and beyond Pacific Power’s substantial and growing commitment to renewables.

In addition to supporting renewable energy in the west, funds from Blue Sky participants’ support has allowed Pacific Power to partner with community organizations to fund more than 145 local renewable energy projects over the years. These projects have helped community organizations save money on electricity costs and reinvest those funds to support their missions in the communities we serve. 

Pacific Power customers who want to participate in Blue Sky may call toll free at 1-888-221-7070 or visit Blue Sky Renewable Energy (pacificpower.net).

The Top 10 utility green pricing program listing is compiled by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in the following categories: total sales of renewable energy, total number of customer participants, customer participation rate, green power as a percentage of overall sales, price premium and percentage of solar energy.

National Renewable Energy Laboratory green power rankings are available at www.nrel.gov. 

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About Pacific Power 

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to more than 764,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, thermal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 28, 2022

Commissioners Issue Proclamation for National 

Veterans of Foreign Wars Day

            (Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Tim Freeman, Chris Boice and Tom Kress issued a proclamation today at the Weekly Business Meeting calling upon all citizens of Douglas County to observe National Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Day, which is celebrated every year on September 29, 2022. The proclamation was presented by Commissioner Boice, on behalf of the Board and acknowledged that, “Douglas County recognizes that we must always remember that our freedom, principles, and foundations of peace have been built on the sacrifices of our veterans in war; that we have a solemn responsibility to ensure that all living veterans enjoy the quality of life they deserve and are buried with great honor. Today we want to formally recognize the many contributions of our VFWs who have greatly contributed to the continued strength and resilience of America and the success of our democracy.”  A copy of the live video presentation can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment.

The Commissioners recognized the men and women of our local Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts and Auxiliaries, for their devotion and commitment to serving those who bravely served our nation.  The VFW is the nation’s oldest combat veterans service organization. Members of the VFW have been unwavering in their devotion “to honor the dead by helping the living.”  According to the VFW website, “This year marks the 123^rd year since the VFW was established. On this date in 1899, a group of 13 Spanish-American war veterans joined together to form what would become the nation’s largest and most dedicated group of combat veterans. Originally called the American Veterans of Foreign Service, the new organization differed from previous veteran fraternal societies as it not only opened membership to all ranks from all branches of service, but also to veterans of all foreign wars. In doing so, the young organization ensured its relevancy to every generation of veterans from that moment on into the future.”

Commissioner Kress presented National VFW Day proclamation certificates to members of our local VFW posts, as well as their auxiliaries.  In attendance were: Patrick W. Kelley VFW Post 2468 Roseburg and VFW Auxiliary to Post 2468: Commander David West, Judge Advocate Michael Eakin, Auxiliary President Valerie West, District Commander Gary Dove, Norma Dove, Richard VanderVelden; VFW Post 3970 Sutherlin and VFW Auxiliary to Post 3970: Commander James Horton and District 12 President Frances Palmateer; Douglas County Veterans Service Office: Director Mary Newman-Keyes and Veterans Service Officer Maria Valdovinos-Chavez; Douglas County Veterans Advisory Committee: Carol Hunt.  They also wanted to thank the members of South Umpqua Thacker-Wallace VFW Post 9744 Tri-City, VFW Auxiliary to Post 9744, Amos R. Osborne VFW Auxiliary Post 9745 Winston, VFW Auxiliary to Post 9745 and the Douglas County Veterans Forum for their unwavering support of our local veterans.  To learn more about or find your local VFW and VFW Auxiliary log onto https://www.vfw.org/.

“I want to thank the veterans that joined us in the room today and all the VFWs around the County for the important work they do for our veterans,” commented Commissioner Freeman.  “We highlighted a number of great programs that are offered by our local VFWs, but I think more important than that is that you offer a place for veterans to go where they feel welcomed and supported.  That is so incredibly important.  Thank you for your work and thank you for your service!”

The proclamation presented today is a reminder to our residents to thank our veterans for their valued service to our country.  They also ask that residents take a moment to reflect with great pride on our country and remember with gratitude the contributions of the many loyal and courageous veterans who have carried the torch of freedom and given so much of themselves both at home and on foreign lands to preserve our freedom. #VFWDay and #StillServing

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Media Contact:     Tamara Howell, Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist, Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us

Proclamation and Photo Collage Attached. © K Trenkle/Douglas County. Individual photos available, upon request.

Douglas County Proclamation Project

Douglas County Commissioners, Tim Freeman, Chris Boice and Tom Kress recognized that the pandemic traumatized our country, state and county on so many levels.  The impact was not only felt physically, but also mentally, emotionally and financially. The Commissioners collectively decided to start this series of ‘kudos’ proclamations, and are dedicated to recognizing people that have continued to do good things in our community despite the challenges of the past two years.   They plan to continue to highlight the amazing, often selfless work being done in order to encourage our residents to do the same.  The incredible stories being told during our proclamation events shine a huge spotlight on the amazing people and organizations in Douglas County.  We want to focus on what really matters, our people. So far this year, the Commissioners have issued 28 proclamations and honored over 760 Douglas County individuals as a part of our Proclamation Project.  They hope you will join them in supporting, thanking and perhaps volunteering to help these wonderful individuals and service organizations, so we can come together to rekindle and restore our sense of community, our faith in others and the joy that makes Douglas County the best place to live, work and play. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: September 28, 2022

Traffic Team asks for public’s help locating hit-and-run driver

Salem, Ore. — The Salem Police Traffic Team needs the public’s help in locating the driver involved in a hit-and-run collision today in the 4000 block of Sunnyview RD NE. 

Officers responded to the area just after 5:00 a.m. on the report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle. The victim, a 66-year-old woman was found lying in the roadway with life-threatening injuries, and she was transported to Salem Health.

The unknown driver of the vehicle in the collision did not remain at the scene and likely fled eastbound on Sunnyview RD from Lancaster DR NE.

At the scene investigators collected pieces of a headlight assembly which point to the involved vehicle being a 1988 to 2000 full-size Chevrolet/GMC pick-up or sports utility vehicle.

Anyone with information concerning this traffic investigation is asked to call the Salem Police Traffic Team at 503-588-6171.

# # #

EUGENE, Ore.—The former president and minority owner of Willamette Country Music Concerts, LLC, who planned, managed, and promoted the annual Willamette Country Music Festival in Linn County, Oregon, pleaded guilty today after she falsified bank statements and financial summaries to influence the sale of her stake in the company.

Anne Hankins, 53, a resident of Springfield, Oregon, pleaded guilty to one count each of wire fraud and money laundering.

“With today’s guilty plea, Ms. Hankins has proven herself to be a serial fraudster,” said Craig Gabriel, Criminal Chief for the U.S. Attorney’s Office. “Falsifying bank statements and laundering money to fraudulently inflate the value of a company are serious federal crimes.”

“Ms. Hankins blatantly deceived her business associate and stole money that never belonged to her. However, today the curtains have come down and Ms. Hankins is facing the music for her fraud,” said Special Agent in Charge Bret Kressin, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS:CI), Seattle Field Office.

According to court documents, as former minority owner of Willamette Country Music Concerts (WCMC), Hankins owned 49% of the company. As president of WCMC, Hankins was responsible for preparing monthly financial statements which she provided by email to the company’s majority owner who was based in Beverley Hills, California.

Beginning in September 2016 and continuing until March 2018, Hankins provided altered banks statements and false financial summaries to the majority owner to conceal WCMC’s true financial condition. In November 2017, the majority owner approached Hankins about purchasing her stake in the company and having Hankins continue to serve as the company’s president.

On or about February 7, 2018, Hankins sent an updated financial summary to the majority owner falsely reporting that the company had approximately $1.1 million in its operating account. In reality, there was only $16,000 in the company’s account. Based on these false financial statements, on March 1, 2018, the majority owner purchased Hankins’ stake in the company for $1.5 million.

After receiving the majority owner’s payment, Hankins directed her credit union to issue a cashier’s check from her account to the Clerk of the Court for the District of Oregon to satisfy a restitution order on a previous bank fraud conviction from 2001. Hankins thereby laundered the proceeds from one crime to pay her restitution on another.

On September 12, 2022, Hankins was charged by criminal information with one count each of wire fraud and money laundering.

Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison and money laundering by up to 10 years in federal prison. Both charges also may result in fines of up to $250,000, or twice the gross gains or losses resulting from the offense, and three years’ supervised release.

Hankins will be sentenced on January 5, 2023, by U.S. District Court Judge Michael J. McShane.

As part of her plea agreement, Hankins has agreed to pay restitution as identified by the government and ordered by the court.

This case was investigated by IRS:CI and the FBI, and is being prosecuted by Gavin W. Bruce, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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SALEM, Ore. – The Regional Forest Practice Committees for Eastern Oregon will meet at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 6 in the ODF conference room, 3200 Delap Road, Klamath Falls, OR 97601. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please email estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov. 

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Forest Resources Division update
• Operator of the Year selection
• Forest Practices Act rule change
• Emerald ash borer update
• Fire season update

The public may attend online via Zoom or in-person. Public comments will be accepted. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 72 hours before the meeting by emailing estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

Regional Forest Practices Committees are panels of citizens – mandated under Oregon law – that advise the Oregon Board of Forestry on current forestry issues and forest management approaches. In 1971, the legislature enacted Oregon’s Forest Practices Act which includes three Regional Forest Practices Committees, serving the Eastern, Northwest and Southwest regions of the state. Under Oregon law, a majority of the committees’ members must be private forest landowners and logging or forest operations companies.

Oregon’s forests are among the state’s most valued resources, providing a balanced mix of environmental, economic and social benefits. View more information on the RFPC webpage.

This morning at approximately 4:32am, the Lane County Sheriff’s Office received a call of suspicious circumstances at a residence in the 30300blk of Lassen Ln. north of Eugene. An area resident called 911 to report that an adult male was throwing himself against the caller’s door.  As deputies responded the caller advised that the male had laid down on the porch and lost consciousness.

Deputies arrived on scene to find the male to be injured and not breathing.  The deputies attempted to perform life-saving measures including CPR.  Medics additionally responded to assist but the male did not survive.  His identity is being withheld at this time.  He is believed to be a resident of another location on Lassen Ln.

Detectives are actively working to determine the circumstances surrounding the male’s death.  His death is being investigated as suspicious at this time.

Additional details will be released as they become available.     

The Northwest Power and Conservation Council will hold its Fish and Wildlife Committee meeting on October 4, and Power Committee meeting on October 5, both by webinar.

See the agenda and how to attend.

On Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at approximately 8:24 PM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a single vehicle crash on Hwy 101 near milepost 162. 

Preliminary investigation revealed a southbound gold Toyota SR5 pickup, operated by David A. Stendal (61) of Yachats, crossed over the northbound lane and went into the ditch on the northbound shoulder. 

Stendal was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. It is presumed a medical event precipitated the crash. 

OSP was assisted by Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, PACWEST Ambulance and Yachats Fire Department. 

SALEM, Ore. - The Umatilla Chemical Depot located in Umatilla, Oregon, will be renamed the Raymond F. Rees Training Center, in honor of Maj. Gen. (Ret) Raymond F. Rees, during a ceremony at the installation on Sept. 29, 2022. 

Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Raymond F. Rees is a retired Oregon Guardsman and served as The Adjutant General, Oregon for more than 16 years, providing the state of Oregon and the United States with a ready force of citizen Soldiers and Airmen. Rees also held various high-level positions in the National Guard Bureau and Pentagon during his military service and as a civilian.

The depot originally opened in 1941 as the Umatilla Army Ordnance Depot, used to store munitions and conduct supply operations. In 1962, the installation began storing and maintaining chemical munitions. In 2011 the disposal of all chemical agents at the site was complete and in 2012 the U.S. Army officially closed the installation. 

In 2017 a license was signed by the Oregon Military Department to secure 7,500 of the depot’s former 17,055 acres as a training site for the Oregon National Guard. The Raymond F. Rees Training Center will be the home of the 249th Regional Training Institute, providing a premiere joint and inter-agency training facility. 

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For more information regarding this press release, please contact:

Sgt. 1st Class Zachary Holden

Public Affairs, Oregon Military Department

1-971-355-2076

Zachary.l.holden.mil@army.mil

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

September 28, 2022

Commissioner Freeman Appointed to Oregon

Criminal Justice Commission

(Douglas County, Ore) – Douglas County Board of Commissioners are excited to announce that Commissioner Tim Freeman has been appointed to the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission (CJC).  Commissioner Freeman was nominated, testified at a Senate confirmation hearing and was confirmed by the Oregon Senate last week.  His term will begin on September 28, 2022 and run through February 17, 2024.

According to the Oregon CJC webpage, “The mission of the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission is to improve the legitimacy, efficiency, and effectiveness of state and local criminal justice systems.”  Statutorily (ORS 137.651 – 137.685) the CJC is responsible for developing and maintaining the state’s criminal justice policy and comprehensive, long-range plan; conducting research studies; providing criminal justice data to federal agencies; providing technical assistance to Local Public Safety Coordinating Councils; reporting on fiscal and racial/ethnic impact of pending legislation; funding and expanding drug court programs; maintaining and updating sentencing guidelines and issuing the annual Local Public Safety Coordinating Council report.  The CJC consists of nine members, seven of whom are voting members appointed by the Governor. The remaining two members are nonvoting members appointed by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House.

While a Roseburg City Councilman, Commissioner Freeman worked with City Officials to make public safety a top priority.  He is also the liaison Commissioner for the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.  While representing District 2 in the Oregon House of Representatives from 2009 to 2014, Commissioner Freeman served on both the Ways and Means Subcommittee for Public Safety and the full Ways and Means Committee, among others.  According to their website, “The Joint Committee on Ways and Means is the legislative appropriations committee that determines state budget policy. It is a large committee of both Senate and House members which employs six to eight subcommittees to facilitate adoption of the biennial state budget.” Specifically, they are responsible for funding the State Criminal Justice, Public Safety Division and Programs.

Being nominated and accepting leadership positions at the state level comes with serious responsibility. This work includes policy development, planning and legislation for critical public safety programs all across Oregon, especially as the Oregon Legislature prepares to convene for the 2023 Legislative Session.  This work will be in addition to and in concert with the work Commissioner Freeman does as a Douglas County Commissioner.

“I am honored to be nominated and then selected for the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission.  I am thankful to have the support of my fellow County Commissioners and the state who trust me to do this important work.” Freeman said. “Together with my colleagues on the CJC, I will work hard to protect and advance the programs and people that protect our citizens, our communities and our way of life.”

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Contact Tamara Howell, Douglas County Public Information Officer & Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Phone: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us

Lo que debe saber

• La mayoría de los habitantes de Oregon que reciben beneficios de alimentos de SNAP continuarán recibiendo los beneficios adicionales temporales de emergencia en Septiembre
• Aproximadamente 432,000 hogares que reciben SNAP recibirán aproximadamente $69 millones en beneficios de alimentos adicionales además de sus beneficios regulares de SNAP
• Estos beneficios de emergencia son un apoyo temporal que Oregon puede dar debido a la emergencia de salud pública federal por el COVID-19
• Encuentre recursos para cubrir sus necesidades básicas: marque al 2-1-1 o envíe un mensaje de texto con su código postal al 898-21, www.211info.org 
• Centro de ayuda para el COVID-19 del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon

(Salem) – La mayoría de los habitantes de Oregon que reciben beneficios de alimentos del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria (SNAP) recibirán pagos de emergencia en Octubre.

El gobierno federal ha aprobado pagos de emergencia todos los meses desde marzo del 2020. Esto da a los beneficiarios de SNAP apoyo adicional durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Estos beneficios de emergencia son un apoyo temporal que Oregon puede dar debido a la emergencia de salud pública federal por el COVID-19.

Debido a que el gobierno federal aprobó estos beneficios de emergencia para Octubre, Oregon también podrá darlos en Noviembre. Sin embargo, se espera que los beneficios de emergencia terminen cuando la emergencia de salud pública federal llegue a su fin.

En Octubre, aproximadamente 432,000 hogares que reciben SNAP recibirán aproximadamente $69 millones en beneficios de alimentos adicionales además de sus beneficios regulares de SNAP.

“Sabemos que muchos dependen de estos beneficios adicionales de alimentos de emergencia para tener suficientes alimentos saludables para ellos y sus familias”, dijo Jana McLellan, Directora Interina de los Programas de Autosuficiencia del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon (ODHS). “También sabemos que muchos habitantes de Oregon todavía tienen dificultades para cubrir sus necesidades básicas y los alentamos a que se comuniquen con nuestros socios en el 211, el Banco de Alimentos de Oregon y su Agencia de Acción Comunitaria local para recibir apoyo durante este momento difícil”.

Los hogares que actualmente reciben SNAP recibirán el pago de emergencia el 11 de Octubre. Los hogares que no recibieron beneficios en ese primer depósito mensual recibirán el pago de emergencia el 29 de Octubre o el 2 de Noviembre.

Las personas que reciben SNAP no tienen que tomar ninguna acción para recibir estos beneficios adicionales ya que se depositarán directamente en sus tarjetas EBT.

Más información sobre los pagos de emergencia en https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/ASSISTANCE/FOOD-BENEFITS/Pages/Emergency-Allotments.aspx.

Si tiene preguntas sobre sus beneficios de alimentos de SNAP comuníquese con el Centro de Servicio al Cliente de ONE al 1-800-699-9075.

Si su hogar recibe SNAP y sus ingresos o la cantidad de personas que viven en su hogar ha cambiado, eso podría afectar sus beneficios. Es importante asegurar que ODHS tenga su información más reciente.

Puede notificar cualquier cambio en sus ingresos o en su hogar de muchas maneras:

• En línea: ONE.Oregon.gov
• Por correo: ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309
• Por fax: 503-378-5628
• Por teléfono: 1-800-699-9075 or TTY 711

Recursos para ayudar a cubrir sus necesidades básicas

• Encuentre una despensa de alimentos: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
• Infórmese sobre programas del gobierno y recursos en la comunidad para adultos mayores y personas con discapacidades: Conexión para Recursos de Envejecimiento y Discapacidad de Oregon al 1-855-673-2372 o www.adrcoforegon.org.
• Marque 2-1-1, mande un mesaje de texto con su código postal al 898-211, www.211info.org 
• Encuentre recursos locales y apoyo comunicándose con su Agencia de Acción Comunitaria local: www.caporegon.org/find-services/ 
• Centro de ayuda para el COVID-19 del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon

Administrado por ODHS, SNAP es un programa federal que brinda asistencia de alimentos a aproximadamente 1 millón de familias y personas elegibles de bajos ingresos en Oregon, incluyendo muchos adultos mayores y personas con discapacidades. Los habitantes de Oregon que lo necesiten pueden pedir beneficios como SNAP, cuidado infantil, asistencia en efectivo y Medicaid. Obtenga más información en https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/benefits/Pages/index.aspx.

Para información sobre recursos locales en su área, como alimentos o refugio, llame al 2-1-1 o comuníquese con la Conexión para Recursos de Envejecimiento y Discapacidad (ADRC por sus siglas en inglés) del estado al 1-855-ORE-ADRC o al 1-855-673-2372 .

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal grand jury in Portland has returned an indictment charging an Eastern Oregon man with distributing large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine in and around Umatilla County, Oregon.

Edain Laurel Lozano, 35, of Umatilla County, Oregon has been charged with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, between May and September 2022, special agents from the FBI and officers from the Blue Mountain Enforcement Narcotics Team (BENT) set up, conducted, and surveilled multiple controlled purchases of methamphetamine and fentanyl-laced pills from Lozano. Each subsequent controlled purchase involved requesting and purchasing increasing quantities of the narcotics from Lozano. By the final controlled purchase, Lozano had agreed to sell multiple pounds of methamphetamine and several thousand counterfeit pills containing fentanyl.

On September 7, 2022, Lozano was arrested and consented to a search of his vehicle. Investigators located and seized over four pounds of methamphetamine, more than 5,000 counterfeit pills containing fentanyl, drug packaging materials, a digital scale, and a stolen handgun.

On September 23, 2022, Lozano was arraigned on the indictment and pleaded not guilty. Over the government’s objection, he was released on conditions pending a three-day jury trial scheduled to begin on November 8, 2022.

If convicted, Lozano faces a maximum sentence of life in prison with a 15-year mandatory minimum, five years’ supervised release, and a $10 million fine.

This case was investigated by the FBI and BENT. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

BENT is a regional drug task force founded in 1986 by the Pendleton Police Department and Oregon State Police. In 2005, BENT was designated as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking (HIDTA) task force by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). Current BENT member agencies include the Pendleton Police Department, Oregon State Police, FBI, Morrow County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon National Guard, Boardman Police Department, Milton-Freewater Police Department, Hermiston Police Department, and Umatilla Tribal Police Department.

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Sentencing James Cam Johnson IV

On September 15, 2022, James Cam Johnson IV was sentenced for his actions involving a multiple fatality collision in May of 2021. 

Johnson pleaded to all counts-DUII (.18%), Criminal Mischief 2, Assault 3, Assault 4 x2, and three counts of Manslaughter 2. The Honorable Vogt sentenced Johnson to a total of 225 months with the Department of Corrections and 3 years of Post Parole Supervision. All 225 months will be served pursuant to Ballot Measure 11. He will not be eligible for release until 2040.

Families of the deceased attended the proceedings via simultaneous electronic transmission from the country of India.  Court interpreter services were provided to the families in both the Hindi and Tamil languages and all were able to provide a statement to the Court. 

The collision resulted from Johnson attempting to pass a long line of westbound vehicles on Hwy 58 in a do not pass zone. Johnson was unable to pass all the vehicles and when attempting to reenter westbound lanes, sideswiped another westbound vehicle before then colliding head-on with an eastbound vehicle. 

The collision resulted in the death of three of the four occupants in the eastbound vehicle.  A fourth occupant sustained serious injuries including broken leg, broken hip, and a broken spine.  The occupants of the side-swiped vehicle also sustained injuries, but not to the extent of the other victims.    

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Arrest of James Cam Johnson IV

On Friday, December 17, 2021, James Cam Johnson IV (31) was arrested and lodged in the Lane County Jail in connection with a May 30, 2021 motor vehicle crash that resulted in a triple fatality. Johnson was charged with Manslaughter 2^nd x 3, Assault 3^rd, Assault 4^th x 2, Criminal Mischief 2^nd and DUII. 

______________________________________________________________________________________

Oregon State Police is requesting the public’s assistance with witnesses to yesterday’s triple fatality crash.

A fourth vehicle, possibly a blue pickup was involved in the crash but left the scene without providing information. 

OSP is seeking information on the involved pickup.  If you were a witness to the crash, have any video/pictures around the time and area of the crash, or any information please contact the Oregon State Police Northern Command Center at 1-800-442-0776 or OSP and leave information for Trooper Phillips regarding OSP case # SP21-144382.

Names of operator and occupants of Mazda M3

Mazda M3 was operated by Jagadish Chandrasekaren (31) of Washington sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Passengers:

Adharsh Murali (25) of Washington sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Jignesh Modi (27) of Washington sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Puneeth Gattikoppula (24) of Washington transported by air ambulance to the hospital with serious injuries.

OSP is/was being assisted by the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, Oakridge Fire Department, Goshen Fire Department, Dexter Fire Department, Lane County District Attorney’s Office, and ODOT.

On Sunday, May 30, 2021 at approximately 10:15 A.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a vehicle collision on Hwy 58 near milepost 27.

Preliminary investigation revealed a Ford Taurus, operated by James Johnson (31) of Oakridge, was westbound passing in a no passing zone when it collided with a also westbound Chrysler Town and Country, operated by Michael Cary (63) of Oakridge, the Taurus then collided with a eastbound Mazda 3. 

Three occupants in the Mazda 3 sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced deceased.  A fourth occupant was transported by air ambulance to the hospital with serious injuries.

Cary was not transported but later went to the hospital for treatment.

Johnson was transported to the hospital.

Investigation is continuing and names will be released when appropriate.

SALEM, Ore – The Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is sending help to Florida to assist with the response to Hurricane Ian. Today, 13 team members from the OSFM’s three incident management teams are leaving Oregon to work in Florida for up to 14 days.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management requested aid through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), administered by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. The OSFM immediately went to work to fulfill the request. The team is led by Incident Commanders Ted Kunze and Ian Yocum. Specific work sites for the team will be determined as they travel and as Hurricane Ian continues to push across Florida. They’ll be working in communities impacted by the storm.

“We are thankful to the Oregon fire service and our all-hazard IMTs for answering the call to help Floridians,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “I want to extend a thank you to the team members, their families, and the Oregon fire service for supporting this mission. Our IMT members train year-round to be prepared to assist in any kind of emergency or disaster, including hurricanes. Our office stands ready to help protect lives and communities. We are keeping those in Florida impacted by this storm in our thoughts.”

ABOUT THE OSFM IMT PROGRAM

The OSFM administers three all-hazard incident management teams, primarily made of members of the Oregon structural fire service. 

The OSFM all-hazard IMTs offer a wide range of emergency support services to develop plans to safely respond to and improve the lives of those impacted by the incident. The teams work to effectively coordinate with responding agencies to provide structure, support, and oversight during emergencies.  They specialize in safety, public information and community engagement, operations, plan development, logistics, and communications. 

The teams primarily mobilize to wildfires that threaten lives, homes, and critical infrastructure. This summer the OSFM’s three IMTs supported five wildfire conflagrations across Oregon. Learn more about OSFM’s IMTs here.

Benton County’s Agricultural and Wildlife Protection Program (AWPP) has awarded over $20,000 in non-lethal wildlife deterrent grants for 2022.

Through the AWPP, agricultural operations of any size in Benton County that wish to prevent conflicts with wildlife can apply annually for up to $5,000 for the purchase of non-lethal wildlife deterrents to protect livestock and crops. Applications were reviewed by an award committee comprised of Benton County staff, representatives from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife, OSU Extension, Chintimini Wildlife Center, and an at-large citizen member.   

“We had a number of outstanding grant applications this year and were fortunate to fund several of these around the county to protect poultry, livestock, and a variety of crops while co-existing with wildlife native to Benton County. We still have reimbursable grant funds up to $5,000 available year-round for Benton County residents who wish to implement non-lethal deterrent and mitigation methods for beavers who may be affecting their property” said Sheanna Steingass, AWPP Coordinator.

The AWPP grant program is in its fifth year. This year’s grantees are located throughout the County and include a variety of non-lethal deterrent projects including scare devices, new and updated fencing, and protective netting.   

The next round of general wildlife deterrence grants AWPP funding grants will occur be available in 2023. Currently, reimbursable funds of up to $5,000 can be applied for by landowners who are concerned about conflicts with beaver; these applications are accepted year-round. Information about the AWPP and its associated grant program can be found at co.benton.or.us/awpp.

September 28, 2022

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@dhsoha.state.or.us

Rockaway Beach health advisory issued Sept. 28

High bacteria levels prompt OHA warning to avoid water contact

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is issuing a public health advisory today for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Rockaway Beach in Tillamook County. People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.

Visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria tend to be higher in these types of water sources.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including:

• Stormwater runoff.
• Sewer overflows.
• Failing septic systems.
• Animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife.

Even if there is no advisory in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.

Ocean waters are re-tested after an advisory is issued. Once bacteria levels are at a safe level, OHA will notify the public that the advisory is lifted.

While this advisory is in effect at Rockaway Beach, state officials continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk even during an advisory.

For the most recent information on advisories, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0482, or 877-290-6767 (toll-free).

SALEM, Ore. — The Committee for Family Forestlands will meet virtually on Thursday, Oct. 13 from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda. 

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Forest Resources Division update
• Wildfire risk map update
• Emerald ash borer update
• Legacy Program update
• Update on the changes to the Forest Practices Act
• Round table discussion

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Zoom. Public comments will be accepted near the start of the meeting. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 24 hours before the meeting by emailing estlands@odf.oregon.gov">committee.of.family.forestlands@odf.oregon.gov.

The 13-member committee researches policies that affect family forests, natural resources and forestry benefits. Based on its findings, the committee recommends actions to the Oregon Board of Forestry and the State Forester. View more information on the CFF webpage.

Need to know

• Most Oregonians who receive SNAP benefits will continue to receive temporarily increased emergency food benefits in October
• Approximately 432,000 SNAP households will receive approximately $69 million in extra food benefits in addition to their regular SNAP benefits
• These emergency benefits are a temporary support that Oregon can provide because of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency
• Find resources to meet your basic needs: Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org 
• Oregon Department of Human Services COVID-19 help center 

(Salem) – Most Oregonians who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will receive emergency allotments in October.

The federal government has approved emergency allotments every month since March 2020. This gives SNAP recipients additional support during the COVID-19 pandemic. These emergency benefits are a temporary support that Oregon can provide because of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency.

Because the federal government approved these emergency benefits for October, Oregon will also be able to issue them in November. However, the emergency benefits are expected to end when the federal public health emergency ends.

In October, approximately 432,000 SNAP households will receive approximately $69 million in extra food benefits in addition to their regular SNAP benefits.

“We know that many rely on these additional emergency food benefits to get enough healthy food for themselves and their families,” said Jana McLellan, interim director of the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Self-Sufficiency Programs. “We also know that many Oregonians are still struggling to meet their basic needs and we encourage them to contact our partners at 211, the Oregon Food Bank and their local Community Action Agency for support during this difficult time.”

Current SNAP households will receive emergency allotments on Oct. 11. Emergency allotments will be issued Oct. 29 or Nov. 2 for households who did not receive benefits in the first monthly issuance.

SNAP recipients do not have to take any action to receive these supplemental benefits as they will be issued directly on their EBT cards. 

More information about emergency allotments is available at https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/ASSISTANCE/FOOD-BENEFITS/Pages/Emergency-Allotments.aspx.

Questions about your SNAP benefits should be directed to the ONE Customer Service Center at 1-800-699-9075.

If your household receives SNAP and your income or the number of people in your household has changed, it could impact your benefits. It is important to make sure ODHS has the most up-to-date information. 

You can report any changes to your income or household in many ways: 

• Online at: ONE.Oregon.gov
• By mail at: ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309
• By fax at: 503-378-5628
• By phone at: 1-800-699-9075 or TTY 711

Resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or www.adrcoforegon.org.
• Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org 
• Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: www.caporegon.org/find-services/ 
• Oregon Department of Human Services COVID-19 help center 

Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 million eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities. Oregonians in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/benefits/Pages/index.aspx . For local resources in your area, such as food or shelter, please call 2-1-1 or reach out to the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 1-855-ORE-ADRC or 1-855-673-2372.

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September 28, 2022

Media Contact: Liz Gharst, eth.a.gharst@state.or.us">elizabeth.a.gharst@state.or.us, 971-666-2476

Note to reporters: Oregon health officials will hold a media briefing at 11AM. Interested reporters can join via Zoom at this link.

To watch today’s media availability, click here.

Federal Government Approves Oregon Medicaid Waiver, Including First-in-Nation Medicaid Funding for Food and Housing

Agreement also expands health coverage for children and provides $1.1 billion in new federal funding

SALEM, Ore. -  Today, Oregon received federal approval to pilot first-in-the-nation changes to the state’s Medicaid program over the next five years. Under the agreement, Oregon would receive $1.1 billion in new federal funds to address inadequate food, housing and other root-cause issues that lead to poor health for people and families struggling to make ends meet. As part of the agreement, the federal government also approved expanded Oregon Health Plan (OHP) coverage for young children, as well as extended eligibility for youth and adults.

The Oregon Health Plan, which is Oregon’s Medicaid program, provides comprehensive health coverage to approximately 1.4 million Oregonians, more than one in three state residents. States may request federal approval to test innovations in their Medicaid programs. Today’s agreement between Oregon and the federal agency Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) renews Oregon’s current section 1115 Medicaid Demonstration Waiver for the next five years (covering 2022 – 2027) and provides federal sign-off and funding to implement the new changes.

A state must apply for a Medicaid waiver when it wants to make changes from normal federal guidelines. States can request flexibilities in who is eligible for Medicaid, what benefits they receive and how health care is delivered.

 “I’m proud to work alongside Oregon to advance policies to expand access to high-quality health care, particularly for those most in need,” said Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. “Thanks to this demonstration, for example, eligible children in Oregon will be able to keep their Medicaid coverage continuously until age 6, eliminating potential gaps in coverage and care. The demonstration also invests in the services that people need to address their health-related social needs, such as medically tailored meals and housing supports. That is transformational change – as are many of the other components included in Oregon’s 1115 demonstration. We encourage all states to follow Oregon’s lead supporting a whole-person approach to care.”

Extended health coverage for children, special needs youth and adults

Oregon’s renewed waiver will allow the state to keep children enrolled in Medicaid up to age 6 — preventing gaps in coverage that can cause children to lose access to needed care in their formative early years. Oregon is the first state in the nation to receive federal approval for continuous health coverage for children under 6 years old.

Also, all OHP members age 6 and older will have two years of continuous OHP enrollment. Establishing longer continuous coverage periods will keep more Oregonians enrolled in OHP with consistent access to health, dental, and behavioral health care.

Medicaid coverage to address hunger, homelessness and climate change

In another first-in-the nation innovation, Oregon will expand health-related social needs coverage for certain food assistance, housing supports and other interventions that are medically appropriate for individuals experiencing certain life transitions, including individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

This package of services, called health-related social needs, includes food and housing supports (including rental assistance) for up to six months for groups who have been marginalized such as youth in foster care, people who are homeless and low-income older adults. State health officials sought federal approval to cover housing and nutritional support services to reduce health inequity and stabilize the circumstances of OHP members who are at-risk of worsening health during major life disruptions. In addition, Oregon will provide devices – air conditioners, air filters, generators - to people with a high-risk clinical need who reside in regions experiencing extreme weather events that place the health and safety of residents in jeopardy as declared by the federal government or the governor of Oregon.

“Oregon is committed to eliminating health inequity and ensuring that our health care system provides optimal health and well-being for everyone in Oregon,” said OHA Director Pat Allen. “This agreement gives us more tools and resources to tackle the problems in people’s lives that undermine their health such as lack of housing, food or consistent health coverage. We’re excited to work with partners in every corner of the state to help more people in Oregon live healthier lives, hold down the growth of health care costs and strengthen communities across our state.”

Expanding health services for children and youth with special needs

Under the new five-year Medicaid waiver, Oregon will cover early periodic screening, diagnosis and treatment (EPSDT) services for to all children and youth up to age 21 and for youth with special health care needs up to age 26, effective Jan. 1, 2023. Under the new waiver, the federal government will allow Oregon to expand Medicaid eligibility and benefits for youth with special health care needs up to the age of 26 if their income levels are at or below 300% of the federal poverty level (FPL). This will ease their transition to adulthood, with fewer disruptions in health care and services.

Federal government commits $1.1 billion to address health-related services, expand coverage and improve care

Oregon also received significant federal support through Designated State Health Programs (DSHP) totaling $1.1 billion in federal funds over the waiver period. Under the waiver, Oregon will use these funds to address health-related special needs (such as housing, food and climate related supports), increase health coverage, achieve better health outcomes and improve the efficiency and quality of care.

In addition, the new waiver sets a timeline to move Oregon’s prioritized list of services from a demonstration to the State Plan as part of standard benefits and services.

Pending decisions

Along with today’s waiver approval, Oregon and CMS will continue to discuss Oregon’s proposals to have new Community Investment Collaboratives (CIC) throughout the state manage community-led health equity interventions. State and federal health officials also will continue to discuss OHP coverage for youth in detention and adults in jails, as well as 90-day transitional pre-release coverage for adults in prison or psychiatric facilities.

Oregon health officials also requested authority to remove prior authorization requirements for American Indians/Alaska Natives on OHP, convert the Special Diabetes Program for Indians to a Medicaid benefit, reimburse tribal-based practices and extend coverage of new health-related social need services to tribal members not enrolled in a Coordinated Care Organization. Federal officials are continuing to evaluate Oregon’s request.

To learn more about all the changes being implemented in the Medicaid waiver and other related efforts in Oregon to transform our health system, visit here.

2022 – 2027 Medicaid Demonstration Waiver Policy Summary

Oregon Health Plan Section 1115 Demonstration Approval

See Attached Press Release

Nearly Two Dozen Volunteers from Oregon and Southwest WA Deploy to Florida or are on Standby To

Portland, Ore (September 27, 2022) - Trained disaster volunteers from the American Red Cross Cascades Region are headed to Florida in advance of hurricane Ian. Experts predict Florida could see as much as 15 inches of rain throughout this week which, combined with a dangerous storm surge, may trigger flooding across the state. 

The Red Cross is monitoring the situation closely and working with our partners to shelter and support people who could be impacted by this storm. Hundreds of trained disaster workers are being deployed to Florida and more relief supplies are on the way to support people in the path of Hurricane Ian. Seven volunteers from Oregon are either in Florida or on their way. Another 14 volunteers, including some from SW Washington, are on standby ready to respond if needed. 

The Red Cross is working with local officials and preparing to open hurricane evacuation shelters if requested. We help anyone in need after a disaster, and everyone is welcome in our shelters. 

Visit https://www.flickr.com/photos/redcrosscascades for photos from our local volunteers in Florida. 

How can you help?
Help people affected by disasters like storms and countless other crises by making a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

The disaster recovery effort continues in Puerto Rico. More than 270 American Red Cross disaster workers, many with no power or water themselves, are working around the clock with our partners to provide comfort and support. The Red Cross also is deploying disaster teams by plane to rural areas of Alaska where Typhoon Merbok devastated a thousand-mile stretch of the western coast last weekend, damaging homes, seawalls, roads and airport runways as well as water systems in as many as 40 towns and villages.

The Disaster Action Team needs you
These specialized volunteers provide emotional support, access to financial assistance, and valuable information to help families begin to recover. They offer immediate compassion and care when it is needed most. Additional Disaster Action Team volunteers are needed in Nevada and nationwide to ensure that there is always someone ready to answer the call when a disaster strikes. The Red Cross provides training and support. Learn more: redcross.org/volunteer.

Download our free apps
The Red Cross Emergency app can help keep you and your loved ones safe with real-time alerts, shelter locations, and safety advice. The Red Cross First Aid app provides instant access to information on handling the most common emergencies. Download these free apps by searching for ‘American Red Cross’ in your app store or visit redcross.org/apps.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon Executive Director An Do issued the following statement in response to flagrant lies spread by gubernatorial candidate Betsy Johnson in tonight’s debate:
 

“As confirmed by the state’s largest newspaper last month, Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon invited Betsy Johnson to participate in our endorsement process. We didn’t receive a reply, nor did her campaign proactively reach out to us to inquire about our endorsement process. Yet tonight, she decided to lie to Oregon voters.
 

“These are not the actions of someone Oregon voters can trust to protect and expand access to essential reproductive health care. Tina Kotek is the only candidate who has sought and earned the endorsement of Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon after a rigorous and comprehensive process.
 

“Betsy Johnson has taken a number of concerning actions that do not align with reproductive freedom. In 2015, she voted against legislation to help patients keep their reproductive healthcare choices private. In 2021, she voted against legislation to make sure reproductive health services are protected during healthcare mergers. And in 2022, she spoke out against the Reproductive Health Equity Fund, which is helping Eastern Oregonians access essential care in the wake of Idaho’s cruel ban on abortion. 
 

“In 2022, governors are either pursuing every avenue to protect and expand abortion access, or they’re falling short. In opposing the Reproductive Health Equity Fund, Johnson has shown that she is found wanting.
 

“Instead of pursuing our endorsement, Johnson was more interested in garnering the approval of anti-abortion extremist and former gubernatorial candidate Bridget Barton. As reported by Oregon Capital Chronicle, Johnson appointed Barton to lead the ‘Republicans for Betsy’ group. Barton admitted, ‘[Christine] Drazan and Johnson are virtually identical on this issue.’”

September 27, 2022

Media contact: Elizabeth Gharst, 971-666-2476, eth.a.gharst@state.or.us">elizabeth.a.gharst@state.or.us

Media briefing on Medicaid tomorrow at 11 a.m.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority officials will host a Zoom media briefing at 11 a.m. tomorrow – Wednesday, September 28 – to discuss updates to the state’s Medicaid program.

Pat Allen, OHA Director, will join Danielle Sobel, Policy and Governmental Affairs Senior Director at the Oregon Primary Care Association, Mercedes Elizalde, Public Policy Director at Central City Concern, Sarah Sullivan, Executive Director at Gorge Grown Food Network representing Oregon Community Food Systems Network, and Erin Fair-Taylor, Vice President of Medicaid Programs at PacificSource to give an update on the state’s Medicaid program, and take questions.

Interested reporters can join via Zoom at this link. A livestream also is available via YouTube at this link.

(Salem) – The Office of Developmental Disabilities Services (ODDS) is hosting a series of virtual weekly lunch and learn events for the National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) in October. These events are an opportunity to learn about employment experiences from people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). 

Governor Brown proclaimed October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The NDEAM 2022 theme is “Disability: Part of the Equity Equation.” This recognizes the important role people with disabilities have in making the nation’s workforce diverse and inclusive.

“NDEAM observance and these events give us an opportunity to celebrate the successes that Oregonians with I/DD have had in the workforce,” Statewide Employment First Coordinator Acacia McGuire Anderson said. “Each year, more Oregonians with I/DD are finding employment in our communities, which is benefitting both individuals and employers.” 

The NDEAM lunch and learn events will take place on Tuesdays at noon throughout October.

• October 4 – Celebrating Employment Champions (hybrid event)
  • Join the Office of Developmental Disabilities Services and Central Oregon Employment First to celebrate employment successes in the region. The celebration will include meeting Christian Brigham who used to work in sheltered workshop settings and now works at the Comfort Suites in Redmond, plus award presentations. The in-person portion of this event begins at noon at the Madras Performing Arts Center. Food is provided and resource tables are available. Please RSVP for the in-person event. The online portion of the event begins at 12:30.
• October 11 – Continuing the Climb
  • This session will involve stories of people that have continued to move forward in their employment journey after they started their first positions. The stories will be told by the people themselves, as well as some of the people that provided along the way.
• October 18 – Past, Present and Future in Transition
  • Please join us as we hear from three young people sharing about their employment journeys. They will share their goals, dreams and experiences in regard to employment. Each one of them is at a different point of their journey.
• October 25 – Maintaining Supports While Employed
  • One of the most significant barriers to employment can be the uncertainty around how benefits will be affected by earnings from work. This session will cut through some of the myths and misinformation about how employment affects benefits.

All four events are held online via Zoom with an exception being the October 4 event, which is hybrid. Registration and accessibility information is available on the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) website. These events are hosted by the ODHS, the Oregon Commission for the Blind and the Oregon Department of Education.

# # #

September 27, 2022

Contacts: Liz Gharst, 971-666-2476, eth.a.gharst@dhsoha.state.or.us">Elizabeth.a.gharst@dhsoha.state.or.us (media inquiries)

Tara Chetock, 971-304-9917, a.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us">tara.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

Oregon Health Policy Board meets October 3, via Zoom

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Health Policy Board.

When: October 3^rd – 8:30 am – 12:00 pm

Where: Virtual meeting only. The public can join remotely via Zoom or a conference line.

To join via Zoom: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1604737337?pwd=WEJFeWJick9oVCsrT0RwcjEwaWdWZz09

To call in to the meeting on a mobile device, use the following number:

+16692545252,, 1604737337#,,,,,,0#,, 136235#

Proposed topics for the meeting agenda are listed below. The final meeting agenda and supporting materials will be posted on the OHPB website prior to the meeting. 

Agenda:

Agenda and meeting materials will be uploaded to the website prior to the October 3^rd meeting, to find materials please follow the link below

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/OHPB/Pages/OHPB-meetings.aspx

To provide public comment, please submit your request for public comment at least 48 hours prior to the meeting at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/OHPB-Public-Comment

For more information and meeting materials, please visit the OHPB meeting webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/OHPB/Pages/index.aspx

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• CART (Communication Access Real-time Translation)
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Tara Chetock at 971-304-9917, 711 TTY, a.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us">tara.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

September 27, 2022  

Media contact: Amy Coven, 503-943-0164, amy.coven2@dhsoha.state.or.us

$913,000 in grants for nonprofits and insurance agents to help Oregonians with health coverage enrollment

(Salem) – Figuring out health insurance was complicated, even before facing a global pandemic. To help Oregonians sort through health insurance plans and programs, the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace has awarded grants to nonprofit community groups and insurance agents.

“Choosing the best health plan can be a daunting process,” said Chiqui Flowers, administrator of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. “Applying for health coverage and financial help and then sorting through plan options can be stressful. Insurance agents and community partners throughout the state are available to take the stress out of the process and help Oregonians enroll in the best coverage for their situation.”

The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace runs OregonHealthCare.gov and helps people get insurance when they do not have coverage available through work and do not qualify for the Oregon Health Plan, Medicare or another program.

“Everyone in Oregon should have access to the high-quality coverage that works for their health needs,” said Flowers. “Insurance agents and community partners can help you figure out the programs, plans, and financial help available to make insurance more affordable for you.”

Grants totaling $913,000 will be awarded to 14 community groups and 29 insurance agents. Awardees use these grants to spread awareness of the upcoming Marketplace health insurance open enrollment period, and to help Oregonians enroll in coverage through the Marketplace.

For many people, open enrollment is the only time of the year to sign up for a private health plan or switch plans. Open enrollment will run from Nov. 1 through Jan. 15 for health coverage for 2023.

Grantees were judged on multiple criteria, including their demonstrated ties to community networks, ability to reach underserved populations, and capacity to serve consumers whether they are eligible for HealthCare.gov plans or other programs, such as the Oregon Health Plan or Medicare. Grantees represent and serve Oregon’s diverse populations and offer services in multiple languages, including Arabic, Asian languages, Russian, and Spanish.

Community partner groups who will receive grants are:

• ADAPT Integrated Health Care, Roseburg
• Asian Health & Service Center, Portland
• Cascade AIDS Project, Portland
• Centro Latino Americano, Eugene
• Grand Ronde Tribal Health Clinic, Grand Ronde
• Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization, Portland
• Interface Network, Salem
• Mosaic Medical, Bend
• Northeast Oregon Network, La Grande
• One Community Health, The Dalles
• Project Access Now (PANOW), Portland
• Unete Center for Farmworker Advocacy, Medford
• Urban League of Portland, Portland
• Waterfall Community Health Center, North Bend

Insurance agents – also called partner agents – who will receive grants are:

• Aaron Michael Burns Insurance Services, Eugene
• Abel Insurance, Coos Bay, Florence, Gold Beach, and Newport
• Bancorp Insurance, La Pine
• Boone Insurance Associates, Eugene
• Country Financial, Sisters
• FG Insurance, Forest Grove and Portland
• Gordon Wood Insurance, Roseburg
• Grace Insurance Services, Portland
• HE Cross Company, Portland
• Health Plans in Oregon, Portland
• HealthMarkets Insurance, Canby
• Healthwise Insurance Planning, Portland
• Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, Tigard
• High Desert Insurance, Bend
• Hillock Insurance Agency, Enterprise
• iCover Oregon, Albany
• Insurance By Design, Wilsonville
• Insurance Marketplace, Medford
• K Insurance Group, Independence
• Klamath Insurance Center, Klamath Falls
• Linda Dugan Insurance, Astoria
• Matthew Woodbridge Insurance, Salem and Woodburn
• Premier NW Insurance, Oregon City, Salem, and Sandy
• RJS & Associates, Philomath
• Shanon Saldivar Insurance, Hood River and The Dalles
• Thippayaphorn Om Sukheenai, Newberg
• Tomlin Health Insurance, Eugene
• Valley Insurance, La Grande

To make an appointment with a partner or agent, go to OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp or call 855-268-3767 (toll-free).

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The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, a part of state government, helps people get health insurance when they do not have job-based coverage, and do not qualify for the Oregon Health Plan or another program. The Marketplace is the state-level partner to HealthCare.gov. For more information, go to OregonHealthCare.gov.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) recently approved rule revisions intended to strengthen protections for low-income energy customers at risk of service disconnection due to nonpayment. These rules are specific to Oregon’s investor-owned energy utilities, including Portland General Electric, PacifiCorp, Idaho Power, NW Natural, Cascade Natural, and Avista. The PUC approved the following:

• Changes to the rule defining disconnection of service to ensure vulnerable populations are protected 
• Adjustments to the language defining what actions a utility has to take before disconnecting a customer that offers to pay cash at the door
• Waiving select charges for low-income customers
• Extension of the period of time required to notify customers of a disconnection of service due to nonpayment 

Disconnection of Service -- The PUC approved changes to the rule to postpone the disconnection of service any time a temperature of less than 32 degrees is forecasted during the colder months of November through March or when a winter storm warning is in effect. The previous rule required a pause in disconnection only if a high temperature of less than 32 degrees was forecasted, which did not take into account very cold days that may have a high that reaches 32 degrees. The rule now also indicates utilities are unable to disconnect service for nonpayment when a customer is under certain wildfire evacuation notices and when the air quality index is at or above 100. Utilities can now only disconnect service between the hours of 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. to allow for same-day reconnection of service for customers.

Paying Outstanding Bills to Avoid Disconnection – The previous rule allowed energy utilities, when arriving at a home to disconnect service due to an outstanding bill, to collect a reasonable partial payment of the overdue balance at the door to prevent disconnection. The rule now requires that any energy utility with a policy not to accept payment at the door be required to notify customers of the options available to pay the outstanding balance and be provided at least 24 hours to make the payment.

Waiving Select Charges for Low-Income Customers – The PUC approved changes to the rule to prohibit utilities from imposing late payment charges and collecting deposits. Additionally, select reconnection fees will also now be waived for qualifying low-income customers.

Disconnection Notice Extension – Utility customers at risk of disconnection are now required to receive notification from their utility service provider at least 20 days in advance of a disconnect. This change to the rule provides customers more time to prepare for a pending disconnection and ability to pay the outstanding balance to avoid disconnection. 

“We appreciate the efforts of PUC Staff, utilities, and stakeholders who were very involved in the process of updating these rules,” noted Mark Thompson, PUC Commissioner. “This is a good step forward in improving the protections that are afforded customers experiencing financial and other difficulties. These updates reflect the need to change business as usual to better recognize the fact that people rely on their utility services to sustain life, while still providing for an orderly way to terminate services only where that becomes absolutely necessary.”

Customers with questions about billing or utility service can contact the PUC’s Consumer Services Team at 800-522-2404 or puc.consumer@puc.oregon.gov. 

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The PUC regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, including Portland General Electric, Idaho Power, Pacific Power, Avista, Cascade Natural, and NW Natural. The PUC also regulates landline telephone providers and select water companies. The PUC’s mission is to ensure Oregonians have access to safe, reliable, and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest. We use an inclusive process to evaluate differing viewpoints and visions of the public interest and arrive at balanced, well-reasoned, independent decisions supported by fact and law. For more information about the PUC, visit oregon.gov/puc.             

(Salem) – Orange Shirt Day on Sept. 30, 2022 is a day for truth and reconciliation on the impacts of the Indian Boarding School system. It opens the door for a global conversation about all aspects of the Indian boarding school system and how it forced Indigenous populations to lose their cultural identities. It is an opportunity to create meaningful discussion about the effects of these schools and the legacy they have left behind.

Staff at the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) will be wearing orange to honor the survivors and victims of the federal Indian Boarding School System. ODHS’ commitment to dismantling all forms of systemic racism is led by reconciliation and collaboration with all Tribal communities within Oregon and is strengthened by our Equity North Star, which is our agency wide vision that leads to a more equitable Oregon for all. 

“Orange Shirt Day represents an Indigenous movement throughout the United States and Canada,” said Adam Becenti, ODHS Office of Tribal Affairs Director. “Orange Shirt Day is a call to action, but more importantly is an opportunity to honor the lives that were lost and those who survived this atrocity.”

“We will be wearing orange to honor the survivors and victims of the Indian Boarding School system and to recognize the trauma it caused for generations of Tribal families and children,” said Rebecca Jones Gaston, ODHS Child Welfare Director. “In Oregon our Child Welfare Division’s Vision for Transformation commits us to dismantling the structures, underlying mindsets, and biases that contribute to racialized and disparate outcomes for Tribal children and families. We honor the sovereignty and self-determination of the Nine Tribes of Oregon and are committed to reconciliation, healing and government-to-government collaboration when working with Oregon Tribes to support the needs of Tribal children and their families.”

According to the U.S. Department of the Interior’s 2022 investigation report, between 1819 and 1969, the federal Indian boarding school system operated more than 400 schools across 37 states or then-territories. During this time thousands of Indigenous children were separated from their families and placed in the school system, many did not survive. The investigation identified marked and unmarked burial sites at approximately 53 different schools across the school system. 

The federal Indian boarding school system deployed systematic militarized and identity-alteration methodologies in an attempt to assimilate American Indian and Alaska Native children through education, including but not limited to renaming Tribal children English names; cutting the hair of Tribal children; discouraging or preventing the use of Tribal languages, religions and cultural practices; and organizing children into units to perform military drills.

As early as 1874, a boarding school was built at Warm Springs in Oregon, and others were later constructed at Siletz, Grand Ronde, Klamath, and Umatilla. Today, Chemawa Indian School, located in Salem, Oregon is an accredited high school that serves American Indian and Alaska Native students. Chemawa is the oldest continuously operated off-reservation boarding school in the United States.

About the ODHS Office Tribal Affairs 

The Office of Tribal Affairs within the ODHS Director’s Office is a team committed to all Oregon Tribal communities thriving mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Tribal Affairs works with all five ODHS programs to create and provide Tribally appropriate programming, services, policies and support. Through Tribal consultation with Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon, O​DHS ensures programming, services, and policies meet the needs of Oregon Tribal communities. 

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On September 24, 2022, at approximately 10:15 a.m., a 911 caller reported bicyclist had been struck by a car at the intersection of Howell Prairie Road NE and Hazelgreen Road NE, east of Salem. Witnesses told deputies the involved car, a “cherry red” hatchback fled from the scene. The bicyclist, a 70-year-old female, was taken to a local hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Deputies are seeking anyone who may have video footage from the area or who has information to help identify the driver or vehicle involved in the crash. Tipsters can contact Sr. Deputy Todd Sphoon at tsphoon@co.marion.or.us or can call our non-emergency number at 503-588-5032 at reference case #22-15139. Anonymous tips can be submitted by texting TIPMCSO and your tip to 847411.

Portland, OR — September 27, 2022 — The Oregon Historical Society is pleased to announce that its research library resumes pre-pandemic hours on Tuesday, September 27. While appointments have been required to visit the library’s downtown reading room to promote social distancing, researchers are now welcome to visit the library on Tuesdays from 1pm to 5pm and Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10am to 5pm, no appointment needed. 

The Oregon Historical Society’s research library is an invaluable resource for learning about the past and providing context on the present. The library preserves the world’s largest collection of Oregon-related materials, documenting the people, places, and events that have shaped Oregon’s history. All are welcome to visit the library, both in the newly renovated reading room and online through OHS’s digital collections and digital history resources.

“Through a multi-year renovation and a global pandemic, OHS’s library staff have continued to serve researchers and make our collections accessible through remote services and individual appointments,” said OHS Library Director Shawna Gandy. “After nearly three years, we are excited to once again resume regular hours and open our doors to curious researchers from around the world looking to our collections to gain knowledge and perspective.”

Renovated in 2021, the new library space features a modernized reading room, with enhancements for researchers including a reconfigured reference desk, a viewing station for maps and architectural plans, a tech hub, and physical improvements that promote accessibility and inclusion for all users. A highlight of the new space is the Pietro Belluschi Architectural Resource Center, which provides a focal point to highlight the library’s architectural collections and a well-equipped meeting space for instruction.

OHS’s expert librarians and archivists are eager to support researchers of all types and skill levels. There is no cost to visit the library, which is located on the fourth floor of the Oregon Historical Society (1200 SW Park Avenue, Portland, 97205). While appointments are not required, researchers are encouraged to contact the library in advance to be sure the materials they need are on site during their visit. Visit OHS’s website for more tips on how to make the most of a visit to OHS’s research library. 

About the Oregon Historical Society

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

On September 2, 2022, around 5:00 P.M., an OSP Trooper stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in Clackamas. During the traffic stop, the driver displayed signs of impairment and after a subsequent investigation was taken into custody for DUII. The driver identified as Thomas James Freeman (37) of Portland was detained by his Probation Officer. During a search of the vehicle, the Trooper noted several signs of recent drug activity along with locating a loaded pistol. The vehicle was seized and searched on probable cause and exigent circumstances. The vehicle and several lock boxes seized from inside were taken as evidence, pending a search warrant application. 

The search warrants were served on September 14, 2022, and the following items were seized.

• 3946.25 Grams Methamphetamine
• 42.9 Grams Psilocybin
• $14,131 US Currency
• 10 Guns
• 6 unknown pills

This is an ongoing investigation with no further information being released.

OSP Troopers were assisted during the investigation by Detectives from the OSP-Criminal Investigations Division-Drug Enforcement Section (Domestic Highway Enforcement Initiative) and the Major Crimes Section.        

The Oregon State Police-Domestic Highway Enforcement Initiative is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the OSP-DHE Initiative.    

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: September 27, 2022

Missing teen found deceased in waterway

Salem, Ore. — At approximately 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 24, Salem Police detectives and deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office were called to an area of the Willamette River at about the 3900 block of Wallace RD NW on the report of deceased person in the waterway.

The individual matched the description of missing, west Salem teenager, Zackary Christopher Brenneman. 

An examination performed by the Oregon State Medical Examiner ruled the cause of death as drowning. Although Salem Police detectives are waiting for the results of other medical reports for official confirmation of identify, they are confident the person found is Zackary. Additionally, detectives found no evidence of criminality or foul play.

Family members reported the 16-year-old missing just after 11:00 p.m. on Friday, September 16. Since then, Salem Police detectives have been in communication with Zackary’s parents throughout the investigation. 

We offer our condolences to the Brenneman Family during this extremely difficult time. At present, the family is requesting privacy.

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CORVALLIS, Ore. – On September 26, 2022, a 51-year-old female adult in custody (AIC), was found deceased in the Benton County Jail.

Jail deputies located the AIC unconscious in the main block hallway at 10:30 p.m. Monday night and immediately performed CPR, but were unsuccessful in resuscitating her.

The cause of death is not known at this time; foul play is not suspected.

The AIC was lodged into the jail on August 31, 2022, on six warrants and awaiting trial on multiple cases.

After next of kin has been notified, the name will be released. Per established procedure, an investigation is being conducted by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.

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September 27, 2022

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

timothy.heider@oha.oregon.gov

Measure 110 Oversight and Accountability Council holds public meetings in October

What: Public meetings of the Drug Treatment and Recovery Act (Measure 110) Oversight and Accountability Council.

Agenda: The council will discuss next steps following the establishment of BHRNs. Agendas will be posted on the Oversight and Accountability Council web page prior to each meeting.

When/Where:

Virtual meetings are Wednesdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Oct. 5 – https://youtu.be/lw3MWMQsH6Y

Oct. 12 – https://youtu.be/P3uwwrNHRNA

Oct. 19 – https://youtu.be/Fd0c1k_Desk

Oct. 26 - https://youtu.be/PoZV5ulnkHw

Purpose: The Drug Treatment and Recovery Act (Measure 110) Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC) oversees the establishment of Behavioral Health Resource Networks throughout Oregon.

Read more about the OAC. Read more about Measure 110.

Questions? Contact e110@dhsoha.state.or.us">OHA.Measure110@dhsoha.state.or.us

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Jessica Carroll at 503-580-9883, 711 TTY or roll@dhsoha.state.or.us">jessica.a.carroll@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

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Lincoln County Emergency Management is encouraging community members, businesses, and community groups to participate in the 2022 Great Oregon ShakeOut. This event provides a chance for you to practice what you would do during an earthquake -wherever you may be at that time. While the official event takes place on Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 10:20 am, you can practice your drop, cover, and hold during the days leading up to or directly after the drill. It is important to register if you participate.

By registering you will help Lincoln County Public Safety agencies document the high level of preparedness in our community. Participation in this event shows that we are working together to strengthen our community resiliency and emergency preparedness. This event also provides a good reminder to update your emergency plans and supplies. 

To view previous participation in previous years, visit https://www.shakeout.org/oregon/whoisparticipating/

Lincoln County residents live on the Cascadia Subduction Zone Earthquake Faultline. This means it is even more important for our communities to be informed and prepared. 

More information on earthquake and tsunami preparedness:

Great Oregon ShakeOut:

• Registration & General Information: www.shakeout.org/oregon/
• Recommended Earthquake Safety Actions: www.earthquakecountry.org/library/ShakeOut_Recommended_Earthquake_Safety_Actions.pdf
• Earthquake Guide for People with Disabilities: www.earthquakecountry.org/library/ShakeOut_Earthquake_Guide_Disabilities_AFN.pdf
• Media – PSA Resources: www.shakeout.org/oregon/resources/index.html#multimedia

Lincoln County Emergency Management 

• Cascadia Earthquake Factsheet: www.oregongeology.org/pubs/fs/cascadia-planning-for-em-and-public.pdf
• Earthquake and Tsunami Emergency www.co.lincoln.or.us/sites/default/files/fileattachments/emergency_management/page/4631/earthquake_and_tsunami_emergency_guide.pdf
• Hazards: Earthquakes: www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement/page/hazards-earthquake
• Hazards: Tsunamis: www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement/page/hazards-tsunamis 
• Main page: www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement

CDC

• Preparing for an earthquake: www.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/prepared.html
• Tsunamis: www.cdc.gov/disasters/tsunamis/ 

Ready.gov

• Earthquakes: www.ready.gov/earthquakes
• Tsunamis: www.ready.gov/tsunamis 

Red Cross

• Earthquake Safety: www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/earthquake.html 

Emergency Management Programs (In Alphabetical Order)

• City of Lincoln City
  • https://www.lincolncity.org/residents/emergency-preparedness
• City of Newport
  • newportoregon.gov/emergency/default.asp
• Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians
  • https://www.ctsi.nsn.us/
• Lincoln County
  • https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement 

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Electric vehicle charging equipment rebates, power cost discounts, and infrastructure investments reduce barriers to adoption 

PORTLAND, OR—September 27—Pacific Power is supporting customers making the shift to electric vehicles with valuable incentives as National Drive Electric Week approaches.  

Drivers looking to go gas-free can access discounts on the price of electricity for vehicle charging, newly available home charging equipment rebates, and a larger array of EV infrastructure across the Pacific Power service territory.  

“When you look over the life of a car, the total cost of ownership is now lower for an EV than a gas-powered vehicle," said Kate Hawley, Senior Product Manager at Pacific Power.  

Drivers electrifying their vehicles can take advantage of the following incentives: 

• Residential Pacific Power customers can get $500 to $1,000 toward installing an at-home charger, depending on income level 
• Business and multifamily property owners (apartment complexes) can get up to $3,000 per port 
• We also offer EV drivers deep discounts in the way they pay for electricity through an incentive called Time of Use. 

We’re also investing big dollars in electric vehicle mobility for Oregon communities, especially in underserved and rural regions  — more than $2.5 million to date. Pacific Power E-Mobility Grants have helped communities purchase e-bikes in Corvallis, electric tractors in Prineville, an electric school bus in Bend, an EV and charger for a health clinic in Portland. We’ve also installed fast charging stations in Bend, Klamath Falls, Madras, Otis, and Mill City. 

"With our work in expanding our service territory’s charging infrastructure, we are making EV ownership and operation more accessible to customers,” Hawley said.  

How much would going electric save you? See what savings are available in your area based on your average mileage, energy use, budget and rebate availability with our WattPlan tool at pacificpower.wattplan.com/ev . 

National Drive Electric Week raises awareness of the benefits of electric and hybrid vehicles including trucks, motorcycles, and cars. The 12th annual celebration takes place September 23–October 2, 2022. It is organized by Plug In America, Electric Vehicle Association, Sierra Club, and EVHybridNoire. 

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About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to more than 764,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, thermal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.

Corvallis Police Investigating Pedestrian Hit and Run Crash near OSU Campus

On September 26, 2022 at approximately 6:21 pm, the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received an emergency call reporting a crash involving a pedestrian occurred at the intersection of NW 26^th St and NW Harrison Blvd. It was reported a witness observed someone on the ground and the vehicle involved left the scene traveling west bound on NW Harrison Blvd. Corvallis Police Department personnel and Corvallis Fire Department personnel responded to the scene. 

Upon arrival it was determined the pedestrian suffered extensive injuries as a result of the crash. The pedestrian was transported to the Corvallis Good Samaritan Regional Medical facility and is receiving treatment for traumatic injuries. The pedestrian was identified as Oregon State University Student, Aliyah Lopez (21 yoa). 

The intersection was closed for approximately five hours for the investigation. Members of the Corvallis Police Department Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) and Detectives responded to assist with the investigation. 

Based on the investigation Corvallis Police Detectives are looking for beige or champagne colored full sized sport utility vehicle similar to a Chevrolet Tahoe or a full sized pickup truck with canopy. There was no license plate information or specific vehicle make and model information. Detectives are currently seeking any information related to the crash to include unidentified witnesses. If you have any information regarding the crash please contact Detective Mark Smith at 541-766-6976 or mark.smith@corvallisoregon.gov.

Note: At this time there is no additional information available related to this incident. Any updates on the investigation will come from the Benton County District Attorney’s Office and requests for additional information should be directed there. 

Note: This press release is available in Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Somali, Arabic, Chuukese, Korean, Hmong, Marshallese, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese, Tagalog, Traditional Chinese and American Sign Language online here.

(Salem, Ore.) – “From a house fire to major earthquakes, taking simple steps to be prepared can be the difference between survival and recovery from a disaster,” said Ed Flick, director of the Oregon Department of Human Services’ Office of Resilience and Emergency Management. “Unfortunately, older adults, people with disabilities, and those on fixed incomes are the ones we often read about who weren’t able to prepare for emergencies or evacuate. We aim to change that as soon as possible.”

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) joins the national observation of Preparedness Month during September by encouraging older adults and people with disabilities to prepare for disasters. 

LeAnn Ivers is the Co-chair of Disability Emergency Management Advisory Council (DEMAC). She’s also hard of hearing and experiencing vision loss. Those lived experiences, and her time on the DEMAC, have taught her that people don’t understand that emergency responders won’t be as available during a large casualty situation. “We all need to prepare as if no one is coming to rescue us,” says Ivers. “We can take control by creating our own plan and how we respond to disasters.”

Ivers recommends these tips for older adults and people with disabilities, although many are relevant to everyone:

• If you have access and functional needs and are in an area preparing for possible evacuation, consider evacuating early, instead of waiting until your area is at level three, the “go” level. Medical needs, transportation challenges and more can make it hard to get out at the last minute.
• Have extra supplies for your specific medical conditions, such as special diets, durable medical equipment, batteries, oxygen, catheters, extra eyeglasses and hearing aid batteries. 
• Also prepare extra supplies for your service animal.
• Keep your prescriptions and essential over-the-counter medication handy, as well as contact information for your medical providers. Build up an emergency supply of prescriptions by ordering as soon as you can each time and check with your insurance company to explore emergency supply options. Be aware of potential hazards in the area and sign up for emergency alerts.
• Be “2 Weeks Ready” with at least two weeks’ worth of food, water and critical supplies. Learn how to assemble an emergency supply kit at Ready.gov or American Red Cross. “Putting together these supplies does not have to be accomplished all at once or at a high cost,” Ivers said. “A helpful way to accumulate these supplies can be to simply add one or two of the items into your shopping and then reserve the extra items for your emergency kit.” 
• Reach out to your local support groups or others in your community who have gone through emergencies to learn from their experience.
• Get to know your neighbors. Even if you have family, your neighbors will be the first ones available to help. 
• If you have an older adult or person with a disability in your neighborhood, get to know them and how you can help in an emergency.

“Each person’s needs are unique to their circumstances, so it’s important that each of us create our own plan to ensure we are ready and can take quick action in a disaster,” Flick said. “ODHS is committed to helping people be prepared and ready for the next disaster.

About the DEMAC:  The Disability Emergency Management Advisory Council was created to apply the experiences and knowledge of people with disabilities, as subject matter experts, to guide statewide emergency management in developing and implementing inclusive practices through all planning, response, and recovery activities. The DEMAC is jointly funded by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, ODHS, and the Oregon Health Authority.

About ODHS and disasters:  Oregon’s emergency and recovery plans give ODHS responsibility to support impacted individuals and families during emergencies and recovery, at the request of and in partnership with local and tribal governments. This is in keeping with the agency’s primary role to assist people in meeting their basic needs while moving toward independence.  

The ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management (OREM) focuses on the needs of people before, during and after disasters, reducing disaster impacts in times of crisis and investing in communities year-round to ensure greater resilience. OREM carries out ODHS’ roles in Oregon’s Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan as the primary agency for mass care, food and water in disaster situations and social services during recovery, and coordinates efforts among local and Tribal governments and nongovernmental organizations. The office centers equity in its work, ensuring that the goals and needs of vulnerable communities directly inform resilience plans and that response systems effectively address disproportionate disaster impacts. OREM also assists other ODHS programs in preventing, mitigating, responding to and recovering from natural, technical and human-caused hazards.    

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September 27, 2022

Contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@state.or.us

Public Health Advisory Board meets Oct. 13

What: The Public Health Advisory Board will hold a meeting.

Agenda: Approve September meeting minutes; discuss PHAB subcommittees; review Strategic Data Plan subcommittee charter; review PHAB charter and bylaws; discuss prioritization for public health modernization funding in the 2023-25 biennium.

When: Thursday, Oct. 13, 3-5:30 pm. The meeting is open to the public. A public comment period will be held at the end of the meeting.

Where: Zoom https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1602414019?pwd=MWtPYm5YWmxyRnVzZW0vZkpUV0lEdz09 or conference call:

(669) 254-5252, participant code 1602414019#.

Background: Oregon’s Public Health Advisory Board provides guidance for Oregon’s governmental public health system and oversees the implementation of public health modernization and Oregon’s State Health Improvement Plan.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters.
• Written materials in other languages.
• Braille.
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact Cara Biddlecom: at 971-673-2284, 711 TTY, or lichealth.policy@dhsoha.state.or.us">publichealth.policy@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

September 26, 2022 

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

timothy.heider@oha.oregon.gov 

Program contact: Anna Williams, 971-720-9654, anna.k.williams@dhsoha.state.or.us 

System of Care Advisory Council meets remotely Tuesday, October 4

What: A regular public meeting of the System of Care Advisory Council 

When: Tuesday October 4, 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

Where: By webinar at ZoomGov 

Meeting ID: 160 347 3675, Passcode: 123456 

Dial by your location +1 669 254 5252 US (San Jose) 

Agenda: The full agenda can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HSD/BH-Child-Family/Pages/SOCAC.aspx. The meeting will include time for public comment. 

Details: Senate Bill 1 (2019) established a Governor-appointed System of Care Advisory Council to improve the efficacy and effectiveness of the state and local continuum of care that provides services to youth and young adults.  

Primarily the Council will be reviewing the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion statement for the System of Care Advisory Council and the Council’s report to the Legislature due September 15, 2022. 

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide: 

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Christy Hudson at 971-678-4347, 711 TTY, or christy.j.hudson@state.or.us at least two business days before the meeting. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: September 26, 2022

Southeast Salem house fire determined to be arson

Salem, Ore. — At approximately 12:35 p.m. on Friday, September 23, emergency responders were called to the area of Wilbur and Cross STS SE on a residential house fire. 

The Salem Fire Department responded to the fire which started on the porch but then quickly engulfed a large portion of the home. Residents quickly evacuated the dwelling and reported no injuries. One firefighter is receiving medical treatment for minor injuries received at the scene.

Salem Police patrol officers interviewed witnesses and determined a teenager set a lit sparkler into a Halloween decoration, causing the fire. The teen was identified and arrested. 

The 16-year-old male juvenile was lodged at the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center on the following charges:

• Arson in the first degree
• Criminal mischief in the first degree
• Reckless endangering

The Salem Police Department does not release the names of minors involved in criminal investigations.

All further inquiries on this case should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

# # #

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Julian H. Combs, died the morning of September 26, 2022. Combs was incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution (SRCI) in Ontario and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified. 

Combs entered DOC custody on April 3, 2012, from Lincoln County with no parole date. Combs was 84 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

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

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Media Advisory:

Who: Benton County Sheriff’s Office and Northwest Hills Community Church

Where: 3300 NW Walnut Blvd, Corvallis, OR  97330

When: Friday, October 7, 2022, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office, along with Northwest Hills Community Church and the Red Cross, is facilitating a community service project. This partnership will afford the opportunity for a faith-based organization and law enforcement to work together to host a local blood drive.

Community members are asked to make an appointment with the Red Cross at https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=FaithAndBlue.

Faith & Blue Weekend is a national event with activities in communities across the country that bring together law enforcement and residents to build connections, create mutual understanding, and enhance justice and reconciliation. To learn more, go to https://faithandblue.org/.

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On September 24, 2022 at approximately 1:27pm, the Lane County Sheriff’s Office received the report of a serious motor vehicle crash on Camp Creek Rd. near milepost 2.  Milepost 2 is in the general area of the Easy Ln. intersection. 

Deputies responded and learned that a black Toyota Tacoma driven by 26 year old Austin McKee of Springfield had been driving westbound on Camp Creek Rd. when it crossed over into the eastbound lane for an unknown reason and struck an eastbound Chevrolet Silverado pickup head-on. McKee was transported by paramedics to an area hospital in critical condition. 

The driver of the Silverado, 70 year old Larry Sidwell of Springfield, was transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

The reason that McKee crossed in the oncoming lane remains under investigation.  Evidence of drug use was located at the scene. 

McKee died at the hospital over the weekend as a result of his injuries. 

Funding supports the work of local community organizations that facilitate learning opportunities 

PORTLAND, Ore. (Sept. 26, 2022) — Research shows that learning happens best when social, emotional and cognitive growth are connected. High-quality, evidence-based programs are also critical  to positive academic outcomes, better attendance and improved graduation rates. That’s why Pacific Power puts funding and resources behind schools and organizations that work toward these goals and open the doors of opportunity for learners of all ages.

The Pacific Power Foundation, a nonprofit arm of Pacific Power, is donating more than $300,000 in new grant funding across the three states it serves to support organizations that provide education and STEM learning opportunities. From financial literacy classes and early educational intervention programs to last-minute childcare centers that can help parents attend a job interview or work an extra shift, the grants underwrite a wide variety of much needed and helpful resources in large and small communities.

“These organizations are seeing the needs and doing the important work of supporting families and community members,” said Stefan Bird, president and CEO, Pacific Power. “It is an honor to augment their work and to know the charitable investments of Pacific Power are building resiliency and boosting the growth and vitality of the communities we serve.” 

The latest round of education grants aligns closely with the priorities Pacific Power places on enhancing access and availability of STEM programs, especially to underserved populations, and learning supports for youth and adults both inside and outside of the classroom. These education and STEM grants are one of four grant cycles offered by the foundation annually.

The following grants were given to 87 local organizations supporting communities in Oregon, Washington and Northern California:

Oregon

Portland area

Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest for fun, interactive STEM kits for mentors to use virtually or in-person with youth to help improve academic performance and their potential for a brighter future.

Black United Fund of Oregon to help provide scholarships that support education, equity and the promise of a brighter future for students in underserved communities.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metropolitan Area for staff training and supplies to help provide hands-on STEM programs that engage and inspire underserved children to consider STEM careers.

Carpe Mundi to provide study-abroad scholarships and year-long mentorships for low-income, first-generation college students to help them reach their full potential through international learning experiences. 

College Possible to support the College Access Program at McDaniel High School that helps historically underserved students get into college and persist through graduation by providing recent college graduates as coaches. 

De La Salle North Catholic High School for the financial aid program at the only college preparatory high school in the Portland area dedicated to serving low-income students. 

FACT Oregon to fund the support line that connects families of youth with disabilities to information and peer support to help navigate special education services.

First Book Portland to distribute new books, including books by authors of color, to economically disadvantaged families to help nurture literacy, a love of reading and a solid educational foundation. 

Friends of Baseball to support the Full Count RBI Academy, an after-school program that combines baseball with academic support and social skills-building for youth from low-income backgrounds and youth of color. 

Friends of the Children—Portland for snacks, supplies and personalized items to support mentoring and skill-building activities for underserved children in grades 6-12. 

Girls Inc. of the Pacific Northwest to support the “Eureka!” five-year STEM mentorship program for girls in grades 8-12 that offers hands-on lessons, activities, field trips, internships, job shadows, guest lectures and workshops to help students learn about STEM college and career options. 

Greater Than for scholarships and case management to support college-age students, who have been involved with the program since third grade, and help them navigate post-secondary plans and career opportunities. 

INCIGHT to expand programming to help high school students with disabilities explore careers and obtain job skills training. 

Jin Ren to provide targeted academic support to historically underserved students in the Albina Mandarin Immersion Program at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School and Harriet Tubman Middle School.

My Father’s House to support The Journey, an on-the-job training and skill-building program for homeless mothers and fathers to help them successfully transition into the workforce. 

Oregon Robotics Tournament and Outreach Program for support of robotics teams in grades 4-12, including underserved and marginalized communities, to nurture interest in STEM concepts and careers.

Portland Rose Festival Foundation to support internships for college students, including past Rose Festival Court Princesses, providing professional work experience at a nonprofit. 

Portland Workforce Alliance for virtual and in-person employer visits to help high school students explore careers, develop post-graduation plans and find their footing in a rapidly changing economy. 

Reading Results to support intensive reading intervention through trained tutors to help early grade readers, who are living on low incomes and/or students of color, reach critical third-grade benchmarks. 

Renewable Energy Scholarship Foundation to provide a scholarship to an undergraduate or graduate student who is studying renewable energy and is either from or attending a school in the Pacific Power service area. 

St. Andrew Nativity School to support the STEM program at this tuition-free private middle school for students whose families live at or below the poverty line. 

Salvation Army West Women’s and Children’s Shelter to help provide internet service, laptops and other equipment for workforce and career development for residents in the domestic violence shelter. 

Samoa Pacific Development Corporation to support the Pacific Islander Youth Engagement Initiative that provides after-school mentoring for Pacific Islander high school students in the Portland area, supporting educational success and cultural preservation. 

Schoolhouse Supplies for the Tools for Schools Program that puts back-to-school supply kits in the hands of students in need. 

SMART Reading to buy books and support programs for PreK-3^rd graders to promote early literacy. 

Youth, Rights & Justice for the SchoolWorks program that aims to disrupt the school to prison pipeline by advocating for youth involved in the Multnomah County juvenile justice system to ensure they are receiving education. 

Willamette Valley

Boys & Girls Club of Corvallis to support teens in grades 10-12 to help them prepare for the workforce, explore careers and graduate on time. 

Corvallis Public Schools Foundation to support the Students Advocating for Equity (SAFE) summer program for students who identify as Black, Indigenous or persons of color, which helps build community, supports mental health and teaches new skills to deal with racial inequities. 

Mid-Valley STEM-CTE Hub to support early-childhood STEAM education by collaborating with early childhood education providers and families in Linn and Benton Counties to provide professional development, training and resources. 

Ophelia’s Place for prevention-focused behavioral health services, including Girls Empowerment Groups, for girls ages 10-18 in Albany and Junction City.

Oregon State University Foundation for the Pacific Power Scholars Program that provides scholarship awards for undergraduate students in OSU’s College of Engineering School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. 

People Sustaining Kings Valley to provide professional development for teachers and staff in Benton and Polk counties.

Scio School District for the Scio Youth Development program to assist and expand the community wrestling program that teaches children responsibility, respect, discipline and the importance of education. 

Stayton Public Library Foundation to support the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which mails free, high-quality, age-appropriate books to preschool children every month, for the first five years of their life, to help build early literacy skills. 

Willamette University to provide Pacific Power Foundation scholarships for two students from low-income and historically underserved communities who are pursuing undergraduate degrees in STEM fields. 

Umpqua Valley

Boys & Girls Club of the Umpqua Valley for keyboards, USB camera adaptors and other technology equipment to enhance the quality of STEAM after-school programs.

Canyonville Community Library to help the library make building improvements to better serve the public as it reopens after being closed for two years due to the pandemic. 

Oregon STEM to support this web-based tool that helps make students aware of STEM career paths by connecting them through virtual tours, presentations, discussions and other real-time interactions with thousands of STEM professionals all over the country. 

Rogue Valley 

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Rogue Valley to support STEAM-based, after-school enrichment programs that help students stay on track for academic success. 

Britt Music and Arts Festival to support music residencies at Britt that provide music education to the southern Oregon region and connect students with professional teaching artists. 

National Inventors Hall of Fame for scholarship assistance for Camp Invention®, which provides engaging, hands-on STEM programs for students through 6^th grade in Jackson and Klamath counties. 

Project Youth+ to provide student enrichment activities and summer camp with hands-on STEM activities for youth from low-income backgrounds. 

Rogue Valley Mentoring to support the in-school mentoring program for Talent Middle School students. 

Roots and Wings Community Preschool to provide tuition help for the young families enrolled in the Equitable Education and Care Program.

Sacred Heart Catholic School to support the K-8 Spanish-language program by adding an online curriculum to support both English-Language Learners and students learning Spanish as a second language. 

Soroptimist International of River Valley to provide scholarships to three young women pursuing advanced education at Rogue Community College. 

Wildlife Images Rehabilitation and Education Center to help create new educational programs for youth during the school year, including programs for homeschool students, preschoolers, Scouts and overnighters. 

Winston Area Community Partnership to replace seating for the Teen Center in order to provide a welcoming, safe place for local youth. 

Klamath Falls

Crater Lake Council Boy Scouts of America for cabin repairs at Camp McLoughlin to ensure a safe camping experience where youth can learn about nature and develop personal skills.

Friends of the Children—Klamath Basin to provide research-based mentoring for at-risk youth in grades K-12 as well as their caregivers through a two-generation approach. 

Friends of the Mentor Program to support the Lake County Youth Mentor Program that connects youth in grades K-12 with caring adult mentors to enhance both academic and personal achievement, as well as scholarships for sports, dance and other extracurricular activities. 

Henley High School Engineering and Robotics for scholarships to help local students design and build wind turbines and compete at the KidWind National Engineering Competition. 

Klamath County Rotary Club to support Klamath Cares, Klamath Reads, an annual celebration of early literacy that provides books to first grade students in Klamath County.

Malin Elementary School for an updated playground structure to provide a safe place for students in grades K-6 to play, explore and be physically active. 

National Inventors Hall of Fame for scholarship assistance for Camp Invention, which provides engaging, hands-on STEM programs for students through grade 6 in Jackson and Klamath counties. 

Oregon Tech Foundation for Pacific Power Foundation Scholarships to support students at Oregon Institute of Technology pursuing degrees in renewable energy engineering or electrical engineering. 

Portland State University Foundation to support Oregon MESA STEM programs at six middle school and high school chapters in Southern Oregon. 

Northern Coast

Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation for the “20/20 Vision” School Vision Screening program for students in Lincoln County and follow-up referrals for low-cost services to those who need them. 

Seaside AAUW Scholarship Foundation to help provide college scholarships for young women, including first-generation college students, communities of color and low-income households. 

Warrenton Middle School to help students design and build a community outdoor activity space, including a walking/bike path and disc golf course with interpretive signs that share regional history, and also for a STEM summer camp where students engage in hands-on activities involving robots, drones and remotely operated underwater vehicles. 

Southern Coast 

Coos Watershed Association for the Life Cycle Monitoring Internship Program that surveys and samples Oregon Coast Coho salmon. 

The Lighthouse School for microscopes and other materials to support hands-on science learning for K-8 students. 

Central Oregon

Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend to support Project Learn, a holistic program supporting social-emotional learning and academic enrichment, including hands-on activities, for K-12 students.

Camp Fire Central Oregon to help teens in grades 7-12 build leadership and job skills as they progress through SummerKids Youth Leadership, Counselor in Training and Junior Counselor Internships.

EarthWin to support the EarthWin^TM Challenge that gives Oregon middle and high school student groups a STEAM-based platform to develop inclusive, collaborative projects that help build a sustainable future. 

Family Access Network for advocate services for disadvantaged children and their families in Crook County to help provide school supplies, clothing and access to food, transportation and other resources. 

Financial Beginnings Oregon to provide free financial literacy training to hundreds of Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson county residents, with an emphasis on including low-income and other historically disenfranchised communities. 

Oregon State University Foundation to provide scholarships for undergraduate Pacific Power Scholars at OSU’s Cascades Campus studying Energy Systems Engineering.

Tower Theatre Foundation to support performances of Tower Theatre’s LessonPLAN educational series  that inspires creativity in K-12 students. 

Eastern Oregon

City of Pendleton for coding robotics and other STEM-related materials to enhance the Library of Things at the Pendleton Public Library. 

Enterprise Education Foundation for the renovation of the Enterprise Elementary playground so preschool and elementary students of all abilities can enjoy an outdoor play experience that is safe, developmentally appropriate and inclusive.

Pendleton Children’s Center to install a fire-suppression system as part of a renovation and expansion of the facility to provide safe childcare services to more families. 

Pilot Rock Fire District for training and equipment, including CPR manikins and face masks, to help teach first aid and emergency response skills to first responders and community members. 

California

Ore-Cal Resource Conservation and Development Area Council to help over 600 K-8 students from Siskiyou, Modoc and Trinity attend “How to Be a Biologist” STEM summer camp and inspire them to consider STEM careers. 

Washington

Clark College Foundation for the Pacific Power STEM Scholarship fund to help increase the number of high school students from diverse populations enrolled in STEM programs at Clark College. 

Early Life Speech & Language to help provide no-cost, intensive, individualized therapy to children ages 2 to 7 who have speech and language delays and help them succeed at home, at school and in life. 

FIRST Washington for after-school and in-classroom FIRST robotics programs to help Yakima County youth develop science, technology, engineering and math skills as they compete on robotics teams.

Fort Vancouver Regional Library Foundation for AWE Learning Workstations, portable tablets that provide preschool and young children a fun, safe, interactive learning experience to help them learn to read and participate in science, technology, reading, engineering and math lessons.

Heritage University to provide STEM scholarships for five students at this university, rooted in the homeland of the Yakama Nation that is home to a multicultural student community. 

Junior Achievement of Washington to support financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship programs for middle school students in Walla Walla County.

Lewis & Clark Middle School for shoes, coats and other clothing, as well as other supplies, to meet the urgent physical and emotional needs of students from low-income backgrounds and help them thrive at school. 

The National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First for enhanced nursing education and nurse consultations to better serve mothers and families from low-income backgrounds in Yakima County. 

Tri-State Steelheaders  to help expand the Salmon In School environmental education program that enriches science learning for students as they raise salmon and release them to local streams.

Wenas Mammoth Foundation for geologist tool kits for the STEM Youth Paleontology, Archeology and Geology Summer Camps for Yakima County students in grades 3-12. 

Walla Walla Community College Foundation for support of the Pacific Power Scholarship Fund that helps students from underserved populations who are enrolled in workforce or STEM-related areas of study. 

About the Pacific Power Foundation:

The Pacific Power Foundation is part of the PacifiCorp Foundation, one of the largest utility-endowed foundations in the United States. The foundation was created by PacifiCorp, an electric utility serving 2 million customers in six Western states as Rocky Mountain Power (Utah, Wyoming and Idaho) and Pacific Power (Oregon, Washington and California). The foundation’s mission, through charitable investments, is to support the growth and vitality of the communities served by Rocky Mountain Power and Pacific Power. Since it started in 1988, the PacifiCorp Foundation has awarded more than $60 million to nonprofit organizations. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net/foundation.

On Sunday, Septeber25, 2022 at 8:28 AM, the Oregon State Police and Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office responded to 5677 SW Young Avenue in Redmond and located an adult male, identified as Trevit C. Law (45) of Redmond, who had been shot. Responding officers provided immediate first aid but Law was pronounced deceased. 

During the subsequent investigation, Skyler R. Myers (32) of Redmond was developed as the suspect in the shooting. A multi-agency effort tracked Myers approximately 7 hours, eventually locating him near Gift Road and the Deschutes Canal. Myers sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was transported to St. Charles Medical Center where he later was pronounced deceased. 

OSP was assisted in the ground search by Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Bend Police Department and Redmond Police Department. 

The investigation is active and no further information will be released at this time. 

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, October 27, 2022, 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

The meeting will be live-streamed on the DPSST Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/DPSSTOregon/ 

1. Introductions

2. Minutes

Approve minutes from the July 28, 2022, Meeting

3. Fire Policy Committee

a. Fire Policy Committee Update – James Oeder, Chair

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

A. Committee Appointments

Fire Policy Committee Appointments

• TBD

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

a. Police Policy Committee Update – John Teague, 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. Jesus Alvarez DPSST #55323 (DOC/Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution) – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on August 9, 2022.

B. Shawn Carter DPSST #44728 (Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office) – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on August 18, 2022.

C. Raymond Dube #41238 (Oregon State Police) – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on August 18, 2022.

D. Christopher Hurst DPSST #34278 (Cottage Grove Police Department) – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on August 3, 2022.

E. Tyrone Jenkins DPSST #29620 (Polk County Sheriff’s Office) – No Action

Unanimous vote with two recusals to recommend to the Board by the PPC on August 18, 2022.

F. David Knudsen DPSST #59147 (DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution) – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on August 9, 2022.

G. Abigail Mobley DPSST #45844 (Grant County Sheriff’s Office) – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on August 9, 2022.

H. Andrew Richman DPSST #51981 (DOC/Coffee Creek Correctional Facility) – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on August 9, 2022.

I. Daniel Schram DPSST #31475 (Jackson County Community Justice) – Revoke

11 (eleven) to 0 (zero) vote, with one member abstaining, to recommend to the Board by the CPC on August 9, 2022.

J. Benjamin Scheen DPSST #44685 (Klamath County Sheriff’s Office) – Revoke

Unanimous vote with one recusal to recommend to the Board by the PPC on August 18, 2022.

K. Jerry Wollenschlaeger #34042 (Marion County Sheriff’s Office) – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on August 18, 2022.

L. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-008-0065; Equity Mainenance Training Requirements

Unanimous vote by the PPC and 6 (six) to 5 (five) vote by the CPC to recommend to the Board in the August 2022 Policy Committee meetings.

M. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-008-0069; Tribal Law Enforcement

N. Approval for Changes to the Basic Police Curriculum

   Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on August 18, 2022.

O. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-008-0085; Basic Police Curriculum Changes

P. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-008-0510; Adopting Rules and Best Practices for Interacting with Persons Who Have Experienced Trauma

     Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on August 18, 2022.

Q. Committee Appointments

Telecommunications Policy Committee Appointments

• TBD

Police Policy Committee Appointments

• TBD

5. Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

a. Private Security Investigator Policy Committee Update – Thomas Thomas, Chair

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

 A. Luis Dominguez PSID #039212 (First Alert Security LLC) – Issue Civil Penalty

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PSIPC on August 16, 2022

B. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0136; Remote Training for Unarmed and Alarm Monitor Private Security Courses

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PSIPC on August 16, 2022

6. Agency Update – Acting Director Brian Henson

7. Next Meeting Date: January 26, 2022, 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.

(Springfield, Ore.) Sept. 26, 2022— PacificSource has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2022 honor by Oregonian Top Workplaces. The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage LLC. The anonymous survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the success of any organization, including alignment, execution, and connection, among many others. 

“This honor is really a testament to the amazing group of employees that make up PacificSource across all of our regions,” said Ken Provencher, president and CEO of PacificSource. “It’s their tireless efforts to live our company values every day that make PacificSource a place where people enjoy working and go the extra mile to not only serve and take care of our members, but each other as well.”

“Earning a Top Workplaces 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:

PacificSource Health Plans is an independent, not-for-profit community health plan serving the Northwest. Founded in 1933, PacificSource has local offices throughout Idaho, Oregon, Montana, and Washington. The PacificSource family of companies employs more than 1,600 people and serves over 600,000 individuals throughout the Greater Northwest. For more information, visit PacificSource.com.

# # #

The City of Roseburg Fire Department will begin issuing residential burn permits, beginning on October 1, 2022 and ending on October 31, 2022.

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

On Thursday, September 22, 2022, the Oregon State Police Southwest Region Drug Enforcement Section team, with assistance from several other agencies, served search warrants on two separate locations in Prospect, Jackson County: a warehouse near 1st St. and an address in the 400 block of Red Blanket Rd. 

Located at the warehouse property were one firearm and approximately 1,800 pounds of illegal, processed marijuana packaged for transport/sale on the black market.  One individual, Yasmany Mesa, age 30, was detained, identified, interviewed, and subsequently lodged in the Jackson County Jail on the charges of; 166.270 Possession of Firearm by Felon (Fel, C); 475C.337 Possession of Marijuana - Person >= 21 - Over 8 Lbs. Usable (Fel, C); 475C.345 Delivery of Marijuana - Over 8 Lbs. Usable in Public Place or Household (Fel, C); and 475C.349 Manufacture of Marijuana - Over 12 Plants. 

Located and seized at the Red Blanket address were approximately 2,360 pounds of illegal marijuana, 416 illegal marijuana plants, approximately $17,000.00 US Currency, twelve firearms, and an assortment of trailers and vehicles associated with the illegal marijuana criminal enterprise. Two individuals were detained, identified, interviewed, and later released.

All illegal marijuana seized at both locations was ultimately destroyed. 

The OSP SWR DES team was assisted by the Interagency Marijuana Enforcement Team (IMET) of the Medford Police Department and Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (AFT) and the OSP Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team. 

The investigation is ongoing with no further information available for release.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: September 24, 2022

Traffic collision results in motorcyclist fatality

Salem, Ore. — At 2:10 p.m. on Friday, September 23, Salem Police patrol officers responded to the scene of a traffic collision involving a service delivery van and motorcycle at the intersection of Liberty RD and Browning AV S. 

The motorcyclist was traveling westbound on Browning AV approaching Liberty RD when it collided with the service delivery vehicle making a northbound turn onto Liberty. Witnesses reported the motorcyclist was accelerating into the intersection. The rider was unable to keep the vehicle upright and went down, sliding a short distance before hitting the service van driven by Patrick John O’Neill, age 56. 

The motorcyclist, Frederick Lee McKinney, age 35, suffered critical injuries and was transported to Salem Health where he later died. 

O’Neill, who remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation, was not injured.

The intersection remained closed for approximately two hours as the incident was investigated, and the scene cleared. 

The Traffic Team investigation into the collision continues. At this time, no arrests have been made or citations issued.

# # #

Lake Oswego, Ore. – September 23, 2022 – Becky Hultberg, President and CEO of the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems, released the following statement on the emergency board decision to pass funding requests from OHA and DHS to help with the capacity crisis in our community hospitals:   

“On behalf of Oregon’s community hospitals, I want to express gratitude to the Legislature’s Emergency Board, which approved the OHA and DHS requests for emergency funds. This funding will help relieve the capacity crisis in our hospitals, preserving access to lifesaving care. 

We still have much work to do, but this is a great start. Thank you to Senator Peter Courtney, Representative Dan Rayfield, and the rest of the emergency board for approving these much-needed funds.” 

###

About OAHHS: Founded in 1934, OAHHS is a statewide, nonprofit trade association that works closely with local and national government leaders, business and citizen coalitions, and other professional health care organizations to enhance and promote community health and to continue improving Oregon’s innovative health care delivery system.

ESTACADA, Ore— Milo McIver State Park reopened its campground today for the first time after a fire burned 15 acres near the park entrance two weeks ago. 

The Riverside day use area opened earlier this week, including the viewpoint, dog park, equestrian area, Estacada Lake and upper boat launch. 

A few areas remained closed:

• The Riverbend day use area including trails, picnic shelters, restrooms, disc golf course and primitive boat launch, is closed to allow crews to identify and work several hot spots in the burned area. There is also no power or water due to a power outage.
• Kingfisher group camp and picnic shelter is closed due to a power outage.
• The Viewpoint Trail is closed due to fire-related damage.

The Riverbend day use area will reopen once fire crews are finished and either power is restored or the park has installed portable toilets. The Kingfisher group camp and five picnic shelters will not be available for reservations until the power is restored.

The cause of the fire at Milo McIver State Park is still under investigation. It started about 9 p.m. on Sept. 9. Once detected by park staff, rangers immediately began evacuating the Kingfisher group camp, which was closest to the blaze, and then evacuated all 53 individual campsites in the main campground. 

“If they had not been there to help people get out as safely as they did, we could have lost lives,” said Lisa Sumption, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) Director. 

Park Manager Sam Gibson, Park Ranger Assistant Ahliae Toulouse, Park Ranger Brandon Whiteman, Park Ranger Assistant Jan Kahn, and Morgan Watson with Executive Security were recognized by Director Sumption for their quick actions during the fire. 

OPRD Columbia District Manager Clay Courtright also expressed gratitude for the local citizens, Estacada Rural Fire District, Clackamas County Fire District and all the local fire departments that were instrumental with early control of the fire. Oregon State Police and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office were also a huge help in assisting park staff with evacuations and securing the area, he said.

Up to date information on park services is available online at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/. 

ROSEBURG, Ore., Sept. 23, 2022 — The Art Gallery is thrilled to present The Land Remembers: Photographs Inspired by the Rogue River Wars, an exhibit of black-and-white infrared photographs that explore the landscapes of the “Rogue River Indian Wars of 1851-56.” The images by Rich Bergeman will be on exhibit from September 27 to October 27. A reception and gallery talk will be held Thursday, October 27, 1 pm - 3 pm. 

The Land Remembers exhibit features more than 20 prints by Corvallis photographer Rich Bergeman for the various tribes who populated the southwest corner of what is now Oregon, the remoteness of their homeland served them well for centuries. But that suddenly changed in 1850 with the passage of the Oregon Donation Land Claim Act and the nearly simultaneous discovery of gold in the region. Settlers and miners streamed in, leading to conflict with local tribes. Skirmishes flared up multiple times between 1851 and 1854 before erupting into an all-out war involving the U.S. Army in 1855-56. It ended with the forced removal of the Rogue Valley and the South Coast tribes to reservations at Siletz and Grand Ronde, which descendants today memorialize as Oregon's own “Trail of Tears.”

Bergeman said the goal of his two-year project was “to bring the largely forgotten war back into our collective consciousness through a reflective study of the landscapes that played host to those tragic events.”

About the Artist
An Oregonian since 1976, Bergeman is a retired instructor of journalism and photography at Linn-Benton Community College in Albany. The 73-year-old photographer has exhibited his work throughout the Northwest since the 1980s.  Over the past two decades, he has focused primarily on portraying forgotten Northwest histories through photographs of what’s been left behind. His portfolios can be seen at richbergeman.zenfolio.com and in book form at blurb.com.

About The Art Gallery
The UCC Art Gallery is located in the Whipple Fine Arts Building at Umpqua Community College located at 1140 Umpqua College Road in Roseburg, OR, 97470. Gallery hours are Monday - Wednesday and Friday, 10 am - 4 pm. The Art Gallery is a 1,100-square-foot exhibition space that features six exhibitions per year, showing in a variety of media from emerging to established artists. The primary focus of the Art Gallery is to exhibit high-quality artwork for the education and cultural benefit of the students of UCC and the citizens of Douglas County.

September 23, 2022

Contact: OHA External Relations, phd.communications@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon Psilocybin Services Rules Advisory Committee meets Sept. 30

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Psilocybin Services Rules Advisory Committee (RAC).

Agenda: TBD for Licensing, Facilities, and Operations RAC (Session 3).

When: Friday, Sept. 30, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Via Zoom Meeting:

https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1601443759?pwd=M2JFaXVkT0hzcjVPOUVFTUJWd3FyZz09  

Meeting ID: 160 144 3759

Passcode: 172831

Call-in 669 254 5252 (US)

Background: Rules Advisory Committees (RACs) are an important process that allow members of the public an opportunity to provide input on proposed administrative rules before they become effective. RACs are comprised of individuals who have subject matter expertise and members of the public who are likely to be affected by the proposed rules. The RAC process is designed to include a diversity of opinions and viewpoints. Although RACs evaluate fiscal and racial impact of the proposed rules and make recommendations, Oregon Health Authority retains decision making authority.

All community members will be invited to provide comments on the proposed rules during the public comment period scheduled from November 1 to November 21, 2022. Information about the public comment period will be sent out to the OPS mailing list later this year.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters.
• Written materials in other languages.
• Braille.
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact the Oregon Psilocybin Services team at 971-341-1713, 711 TTY, or in@dhsoha.state.or.us">OHA.Psilocybin@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

UPDATE-Name and additional details released

On Monday September 19, 2022 at 7:55 PM, officers from the Grants Pass Police Department responded to a call reporting suspicious activity in progress at a city park. Upon police contact, a male suspect fled the scene on foot and officers canvassed the neighborhood in an attempt to locate him. During the search, one of the officers encountered an armed male resident in the area. During the encounter, the resident was shot by the officer. The resident is identified as Mark Barrett Caldwell (46) of Grants Pass.

Immediate first aid was given to Caldwell and he was transported to an area hospital with critical injuries. On September 22, 2022, Caldwell was pronounced deceased at Rogue Valley Medical Center in Medford.

Police are still searching for the initial male suspect who fled and are seeking assistance from the public. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch Center at 800-442-0776 or OSP (677) from your mobile phone. 

This continues to be an active investigation and no further information will be released at this time.

===============================================================

On Monday, September 19, 2022 at 7:55 PM, officers from the Grants Pass Police Department responded to a call reporting suspicious activity in progress at a city park. 

In response to the call, an officer involved shooting occurred on SW Westholm Avenue in Grants Pass. An adult male was shot by an officer during the incident. The involved officer has been placed on administrative leave per Senate Bill 111 protocols. 

The incident is being investigated by the Oregon State Police assisted by the Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory. The investigation will be referred to the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office for review upon completion.

This is an active investigation and no further information will be released at this time. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: September 23, 2022

School bus driver arrested for driving under the influence

Update 09/23/2022 | 9:55 a.m.

Please note, Fowler's first name is Katy. Fowler's first name was misspelled in the original release. 

Sincerest apologies for the error.

# # #

Originally published 09/23/2022 | 9:00 a.m.

Salem, Ore. — Yesterday, September 22, Salem Police officers arrested 42-year-old Kathy Anne Fowler on charges related to driving under the influence.

The investigation by the Salem Police Traffic Team was initiated after the report of Fowler, a bus driver for Salem-Keizer Public Schools, being under the influence of alcohol while transporting students on August 9, 2022. 

The incident involved Fowler driving 15 students on two separate bus routes between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. that Tuesday morning in August. Between the two transports, Fowler was also involved in a collision in which the bus she was driving struck a guard rail.

Fowler is charged with the following:

• Reckless endangering, 15 counts
• Driving under the influence of an intoxicant
• Reckless driving
• Criminal mischief

Any parents, students, or community members who may have witnessed the bus in operation by Fowler are asked to call the Traffic Team at 503-588-6171.

Please direct further inquiries about this investigation to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

# # #

September 23, 2022

Contact: OHA External Relations, phd.communications@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon Psilocybin Services Rules Advisory Committee meets Sept. 29

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Psilocybin Services Rules Advisory Committee (RAC).

Agenda: TBD for Packaging, Labeling, and Product Transportation RAC (Session 3).

When: Thursday, Sept. 29, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Via Zoom Meeting:

https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1604155121?pwd=OVREZU1vTUpjL2FYRjZ2Uk1qUUlZZz09  

Meeting ID: 160 415 5121

Passcode: 111516

Call-in 669 254 5252 (US)

Background: Rules Advisory Committees (RACs) are an important process that allow members of the public an opportunity to provide input on proposed administrative rules before they become effective. RACs are comprised of individuals who have subject matter expertise and members of the public who are likely to be affected by the proposed rules. The RAC process is designed to include a diversity of opinions and viewpoints. Although RACs evaluate fiscal and racial impact of the proposed rules and make recommendations, Oregon Health Authority retains decision making authority.

All community members will be invited to provide comments on the proposed rules during the public comment period scheduled from November 1 to November 21, 2022. Information about the public comment period will be sent out to the OPS mailing list later this year.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters.
• Written materials in other languages.
• Braille.
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact the Oregon Psilocybin Services team at 971-341-1713, 711 TTY, or in@dhsoha.state.or.us">OHA.Psilocybin@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

September 23, 2022

Contact: OHA External Relations, phd.communications@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon Psilocybin Services Rules Advisory Committee meets Sept. 28

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Psilocybin Services Rules Advisory Committee (RAC).

Agenda: TBD for Facilitator Conduct, Preparation, Administration, and Integration Sessions RAC (Session 3).

When: Wednesday, Sept. 28, 1-4 p.m.

Where: Via Zoom Meeting:

https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1605370281?pwd=Y1VlWGNFVHZINkNkWVF6RWpSY1JYUT09  

Meeting ID: 160 537 0281

Passcode: 619313

Call-in 669 254 5252 (US)

Background: Rules Advisory Committees (RACs) are an important process that allow members of the public an opportunity to provide input on proposed administrative rules before they become effective. RACs are comprised of individuals who have subject matter expertise and members of the public who are likely to be affected by the proposed rules. The RAC process is designed to include a diversity of opinions and viewpoints. Although RACs evaluate fiscal and racial impact of the proposed rules and make recommendations, Oregon Health Authority retains decision making authority.

All community members will be invited to provide comments on the proposed rules during the public comment period scheduled from November 1 to November 21, 2022. Information about the public comment period will be sent out to the OPS mailing list later this year.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters.
• Written materials in other languages.
• Braille.
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact the Oregon Psilocybin Services team at 971-341-1713, 711 TTY, or in@dhsoha.state.or.us">OHA.Psilocybin@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

September 23, 2022

Contact: Liz Gharst, 971.666.2476, eth.a.gharst@dhsoha.state.or.us">elizabeth.a.gharst@dhsoha.state.or.us (media inquiries)

Kiari Chao, 503.931.3053, i.chao@dhsoha.state.or.us">kiari.chao@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

Health Information Exchange (HIE) Workgroup to meet September 30

What: The regular public meeting of the Health Information Exchange (HIE) Workgroup

When: September 30, 9:00am to 12:00pm

Where: By webinar and conference line only. The public may join remotely through a webinar and conference line:

• Join the webinar at https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1602595083?pwd=YmVUazRKNDFzQ2k3dmVaUmNVeUJtZz09
• Conference line: 669-254-5252, Meeting ID: 160 259 5083, Password: 002298

Agenda: Welcome (9:00-9:10); Legislative Recommendations Next Steps (9:10-9:30); State HIE Infrastructure: HIT Commons (9:30-10:20); BREAK (10:20-10:30); State HIE Infrastructure: Reliance eHealth Collaborative (10:30-11:50); Public Comment (11:50-11:55); Next Steps and Adjourn (11:55-12:00)

For more information, please visit the committee's website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/OHIT-HITOC/Pages/HIEworkgroup.aspx.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• CART (live captions)
• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact OHIT.Info@dhsoha.state.or.us or call 503-373-7859 at least 48 hours before the meeting. OHA will make every effort to provide services for requests made closer to the meeting.