FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: December 3, 2023

Pedestrian dies after being struck by delivery truck

Salem, Ore. — A man was struck and killed by a delivery truck Saturday evening on Cordon RD SE. 

At approximately 7:50 p.m. on December 2, the driver of a delivery van reported he had struck what he believed to be a pedestrian while traveling northbound on Cordon RD SE just south of the HW22E overpass. Salem Police personnel arrived on scene and located a deceased man off the west shoulder of the roadway. 

The preliminary investigation by the Salem Police Traffic Team shows the decedent, Kiristian Murauo, age 23, was attempting to cross Cordon RD when he was struck by the delivery van in the north-bound vehicle lane of travel. No lawful pedestrian crossing, or overhead street lighting exists in the area of the crash location.

The driver, Justin Rodriguez, age 35, remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.

North and southbound travel on Cordon RD at the overpass was interrupted for approximately three hours for investigation and clearing of the scene. 

No arrest has occurred, or citation issued as the collision remains under investigation. No other information is available for release.

To date in 2023, the Salem Police Department has investigated 12 fatal collisions, resulting in 13 deaths.

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Springfield, OR.  Eugene Springfield Firefighters are on scene of a house fire At 8th and B Street near downtown. Fire crews were called to an outbuilding on fire near a house.  Firefighters found a fully involved shed fire that extended to the attic of the house.  A quick response helped crews minimize damage to the interior of the home.  Responding crews were assisted by Springfield Police who helped Firefighters navigate the Springfield Christmas parade.  There were no injuries reported and the cause is under investigation. 

EUGENE, Ore. –The fall athletic season recently wrapped up at Bushnell University, giving the Beacons many reasons to celebrate the achievements and records across various sports. The university's athletes excelled on their respective playing fields and in the classroom, showcasing their continual commitment to athletic and academic excellence while navigating the many responsibilities of being full-time student-athletes. 

The Beacons enjoyed a noteworthy fall season, with seven Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) Players of the Week and seven All-Conference Honorees. Additionally, 35 fall athletes earned Academic All-Conference honors with a minimum GPA of 3.2 and sophomore standing or higher. Further showcasing their dedication to academic excellence, 26 of the 35 Academic All-Conference fall athletes also received NAIA Scholar-Athlete honors, maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher. 

Bushnell's volleyball team maintained its consistency, securing a spot in the CCC Tournament for the fifth consecutive season. Notable accomplishments included junior Bella Parque's record-breaking performance with 520 digs, setting a new single-season record of 5.15 digs per set. Senior Halle Neumann left her mark in the record books as well, achieving a Beacons all-time and career record of 930 kills and ranking third all-time in blocks with 258. The team's stellar performance earned all-conference recognition for multiple players. Neumann and junior Matty Ladd earned First-Team All-Conference honors, and Parque received All-CCC honorable mention. 

The men's soccer team continued trending up, going 4-0-1 in the preseason and tying a school record with a four-game winning streak. Notably, they achieved their highest number of wins in six years, setting school records for goals (35) and assists (28). Freshman Omar Barajas made history by breaking the single-season and career records for assists. The team's success was recognized with sophomore Jay Jay Van Der Velde earning Second-Team All-Conference Honors. 

The women's soccer team, led by first-year coach Halle Meadows, experienced a remarkable turnaround, going from zero to five wins and securing their first trip to the CCC tournament in seven years. With the fewest goals allowed in school history, junior goalkeeper Lexi Bates, set a new single-season record with a 1.14 Goals Against Average. Junior Lexis Canyete-Asato, earned First-Team All-Conference honors, while Bates and senior Niamhie Taylor-Hughes received second-team honors. 

Under first-year head coach Kyle Will's guidance, the men's and women's cross-country teams navigated a transitional year, fielding complete rosters for the Cascade Conference Championships. The teams are eager for continued growth in the future. 

On the golf course, senior Jackson Muramoto secured victory at the TMU Danish Classic, shooting a four-under-par 69-71—140, one of the best two-round totals in school history. Muramoto’s tournament win is his second while playing for the Beacons. 

In the esports arena, Bushnell senior Christian Velazquez and junior Ethan Slayden showcased their skills by placing fifth at the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) Fortnite Fall Championship, giving the Beacons their third consecutive season with a top-10 national finish. 

As the fall season concludes, Bushnell University encourages fans and supporters to stay updated on all Beacon Athletics by visiting www.bushnellbeacons.com. Prospective student-athletes interested in attending and playing at Bushnell University should fill out a recruiting interest form for the sport they are interested in. 

Explore fall season photos of any team at the Beacons photo gallery by visiting www.bushnellbeacons.pixieset.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 1, 2023

Notice of Meeting

Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC)

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

(Douglas County, Ore.) The next meeting of the Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) will take place on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at 11:30 am, in Room 310 at the Douglas County Courthouse located at 1036 SE Douglas Avenue in Roseburg, Oregon. 

In compliance with ORS 192.610 to 192.690, we will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to watch the meeting via video conference or listen via phone.  Members of the public who wish to watch or listen to this meeting can do so by accessing the options listed on the attached agenda.  For more information about the LPSCC program click here to access their webpage on the county website at or contact Koree Tate at ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov or call (541) 957-7790.

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

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Program Contact:ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">Koree Tate | LPSCC Program & Partnership Coordinator | Douglas County Juvenile Department

Phone: (541) 957-7790 | Email: ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov

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

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a traffic crash on Crow Rd. near Milepost 7 yesterday evening just before 6:00pm.  Upon arrival deputies learned that a 2023 Ram pickup had been traveling on Crow Rd. when it left the roadway and struck some trees. The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was found to be deceased.

Speed is being investigated as a possible factor in the crash.  The victim’s identity is being withheld at this time. 

Anyone with information about this crash is asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4150 opt. 1. 

PORTLAND, Ore.—A local man is facing federal charges today for distributing counterfeit Oxycodone pills containing fentanyl that caused the overdose death of a Portland teenager.

Nasir Overton, 20, a resident of Portland, has been charged by criminal complaint with one count each of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, resulting in death, and distributing and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, resulting in death.

According to court documents, on September 20, 2023, a detective from the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) responded to a local hospital after receiving a report of a 15-year-old who had fatally overdosed on fentanyl. The detective learned that the day prior, the teenager had ingested a single counterfeit Oxycodone pill containing fentanyl and overdosed. The teenager was pronounced dead four days later. Further investigation revealed that the teen received the fatal pill from a friend who had purchased two pills from Overton, who went by the alias “Noni.”

Overton was arrested Thursday without incident in Portland and made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

If convicted, Overton faces a maximum sentence of life in federal prison.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), PPB, and the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Interdiction Task Force (HIT). It is being prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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PORTLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Air National Guard’s 142nd Wing, located at the Portland Air National Guard Base, will welcome a new commander during a change of command ceremony here, December 2nd, at 3:00 p.m. 

Col. Michael B. Kosderka will succeed Col. Todd A. Hofford as the Wing Commander, overseeing nearly 1,400 personnel in executing their F-15 Eagle Aerospace Control Alert mission in defense of the Pacific Northwest, worldwide deployments supporting national objectives, and local state missions as directed by the governor. 

Colonel Kosderka has spent all 24 years of his military career in the Oregon Air National Guard. He has been deployed in support of Overseas Contingency Operations throughout the world, including Operation Noble Eagle. Colonel Kosderka received his bachelor’s degree in Mathematical Science in 1998 from Linfield College, McMinnville, Oregon and a Master’s in Business Administration from Willamette University in Salem, Oregon. 

In his previous assignment, Colonel Kosderka served as the Director of Staff for the Oregon Air National Guard, Joint Force Headquarters in Salem. He also served as the 142nd Maintenance Group Commander from September 2020 through December 2021 in Portland. Col. Kosderka is rated as a senior pilot with over 1,200 flying hours, most recently in the F-15 Eagle.

Col. Hofford has served as the 142nd Wing Commander the past two years beginning in December 2021 to December 2023.  During his tenure, the wing’s aerospace control alert mission culminated in a 1st Air Force Alert “Unit of the Year” designation. Col. Hofford later coauthored and initiated the planning and execution of the Enduring Partners 2023 State Partnership Program dissimilar air combat exercise at Korat Air Base, Thailand.

Col. Hofford began his military career in 1993 when he enlisted in the Air National Guard as a munitions systems specialist with the 173rd Fighter Wing in Klamath Falls, Oregon. He received his officer commission from the Academy of Military Science in 1998 and later attended Undergraduate Pilot Training in 1999. Col. Hofford is rated as a command pilot with more than 2,600 flying hours, primarily in the F-15 Eagle. Col. Hofford’s next assignment will be as the principal deputy director, A3/10 at the Air National Guard Readiness Center, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.

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Media members wishing to attend, please email 142.wg.pa@us.af.mil by Saturday, 2 December no later than 9 a.m.

About the 142nd Wing:

The Portland Air National Guard Base employs 1,500 Airmen who provide an economic impact of nearly $500 million to the region. The 142nd Wing defends our homeland with F-15 Eagle fighter jets, guarding the Pacific Northwest skies from northern California to the Canadian border through their Aerospace Control Alert mission as part of Air Combat Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). Their mission is to provide unequalled, mission-ready units to sustain combat aerospace superiority and peacetime tasking any time, any place in service to our nation, state and community.

Salem, Ore.—The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) held a public training session covering new rules regarding streams and roads to help forestland owners prepare for changes to the Forest Practices Act (FPA) that go into effect Jan. 1.

“This training explains changes to the Forest Practices Act for owners of large and small forestland tracts. Although there is a focus on stream buffer and road assessment rule changes, the training provides an overview of other rule changes and new programs too,” said Forest Resource Policy, Training, and Enforcement Manager Megan Cogswell.

Visit the Forest Practices Act webpage to:

• view a recorded version of an earlier session of the Streams and Roads training.
• view a factsheet summarizing key dates and changes called New Forest Practices Rules.

Small forestland owners who need assistance or resources can contact ODF’s new Small Forestland Owner Office. “Small forestland owners” are described as owning less than 5,000 acres and harvesting 2,000 million board feet on average per year over a three-year period. There are specific programs available for landowners who qualify, including the Small Forestland Investment in Stream Habitat (SFISH) and the Forest Conservation Tax Credit. Contact the SFO office at: estlandowneroffice@odf.oregon.gov">smallforestlandowneroffice@odf.oregon.gov, or use the ODF “Find a Forester” tool.

SALEM, Oregon— The County Opportunity Grant Program Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting to review grant applications 10 a.m. to noon. Dec. 14 on Zoom. 

Applicants to the County Opportunity Grant Program (COGP) will present their proposed projects for acquiring, planning, developing and rehabilitating county-run camping facilities. The committee will evaluate and score all applications and create a priority ranking list of projects to be funded. The list will be forwarded to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission for final review and approval. 

A schedule with applicants and their specific presentation times will be posted on the County Opportunity Grant Program web page at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/GRA/pages/GRA-cogp.aspx the week of Dec. 4. A link to view the Zoom meeting will also be posted on the site at that time.

The COGP Advisory Committee consists of seven members who represent counties, recreational vehicle owners, people with disabilities and the general public. They also represent various geographic areas of the state. 

The COGP was established in 1983 to direct a portion of revenue from recreational vehicle registration fees to counties for park and recreation sites and programs. All Oregon counties are eligible to apply. The program is administered by Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). 

For more information about the COGP, visit oprdgrants.org. 

North Bend School District Public Meetings – December 2023 

Below are North Bend School District public meetings currently scheduled for December:

December 4, 2023

Regular Board Meeting

North Bend City Hall Council Chambers at 6:00 p.m.

835 California Ave., North Bend, OR

The schedule is subject to change.

Please email rix@nbend.k12.or.us">mbrix@nbend.k12.or.us or visit the NBSD Website: https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/1573 for agenda information

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is seeking information from anyone who has had insurance dealings with Joshua M. Bekhor or his company, Immediate Insurance Services. Bekhor is under investigation for being an unlicensed insurance producer in Oregon and misappropriating insurance premiums.

The division received a complaint from an Oregon consumer who said Bekhor sold several policies to him for more than $11,000, only to find out the policies did not exist or were for much lower coverages than the insured believed he was purchasing. The consumer was only made aware of these issues after an insurance investigator contacted him to let him know Bekhor had either never purchased the insurance policies the consumer paid for or had purchased much smaller policies.

The consumer contacted the insurance companies he was led to believe he had purchased policies with and in each instance he found Bekhor never purchased the policies the consumer paid for. 

Bekhor is also accused of collecting premiums for the purchase of a property insurance policy for a company in Oregon but never forwarding the premiums to the insurer. The company found out when the roof of one of its warehouses collapsed from snow and ice, and the company suffered $100,000 worth of property damage. The insurance company denied the claim because the policy had been canceled due to nonpayment.

Bekhor held an insurance producer license in California from 2018 to 2021 but had it revoked for, among other things, fraudulent practices and diversion of funds.

DFR has issued an order for Bekhor to immediately cease and desist selling insurance in Oregon as an unlicensed producer and fined him for $8,000. Bekhor has an opportunity to contest these findings and allegations before an administrative law judge. 

The division would like to remind people to only do business with insurance producers who are licensed in Oregon. You can check for a license on DFR’s website as well as file a complaint if you feel you have been defrauded or been the victim of a scam.

Anyone who may have purchased insurance from Bekhor is asked to contact DFR immediately. You can do so by calling 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or emailing .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

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

The Community Health Center of Lane County (CHCLC), a division of Lane County Health & Human Services (LCH&HS), recently received national recognition in four areas from The Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). These recognitions include Access Enhancer (AE), Advancing Health Information Technology (HIT), Patient-Centered Medical Home(PCMH), and Health Disparities Reducer (HDR). HRSA is a federal agency that provides healthcare access to the nation’s highest-need communities, such as those that have been economically and socially marginalized, including people with low income, children, parents, rural communities, and more.

“These recognitions show the dedication of the Community Health Centers and H&HS to expanding our capabilities to provide quality, and equitable access to healthcare to those in our community who are most in need,” said CHCLC Chief Operations Officer, Suzanne Roelof.

In 2022, the CHCLC served nearly 26,000 patients, a 12% percent increase from 2021, providing an umbrella of healthcare services to meet community needs, such as general medical care, chronic disease management, mental health services, and more. The CHCLC increased positive health outcomes for patients served through accessible services, including the adoption and expansion of the CHCLC’s capacity to provide telehealth services, streamlining patient-provider communication, and removing many barriers to healthcare access in our community. The culmination of this work earned both HRSA’s AE recognition and the Advancing HIT Quality.

“This recognition is an acknowledgment of the great work at our CHCLC, which continues to focus on providing high quality care to the most vulnerable residents of our community. It also represents Lane County H&HS' continued strategic focus on eliminating health disparities, especially for those who are economically and socially marginalized,” said LCH&HS Director, Eve Gray. 

The Community Health Centers have prioritized reducing the health gap in Lane County by providing access to ambulatory healthcare and by meeting or exceeding the requirements for primary health centers against national standards. This approach involves patient-focused care to improve health equity, lower healthcare costs, and ensure that health outcomes are similar across different racial and ethnic backgrounds, especially in low infant birth rates and chronic disease management. These outcomes include keeping low birth weights at or below 7.7%, increasing patient hypertension control to 61% or more, and reducing the prevalence of patient uncontrolled diabetes at or below 11.6%. The Community Health Center’s commitment over the years to reducing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to positive health outcomes for all residents in Lane County has resulted in receiving the PCMH and HDR recognition from HRSA.

SALEM, Ore— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking additional public comments on proposed updates to the rules for excluding individuals from Oregon State Parks who commit violations, including endangering the safety of visitors and staff (OAR 736-010-0020, 736-021-0040). 

The proposed rules opened for public comment Oct. 2, 2023 and reflected changes recommended by the Rule Advisory Committee, a group formed by OPRD that included representatives from the mental health community, attorneys, agency safety staff and park hosts. The first public comment period closed Nov. 3, 2023. 

After reviewing public comments, the agency decided that an update is needed to clarify the exclusion decision-making process to include exclusion conditions and timeline. This means that an additional round of public comment is required before adopting the updates to the rule.

All of the proposed updates clarify the process for excluding individuals from Oregon State Parks who commit rule violations that endanger the safety of visitors, staff or park resources. The proposed updates provide clear information on how excluded individuals may request an appeal and how appeals will be processed.

OPRD is accepting comments until 5 p.m. January 4, 2024. Comments can be made online, in writing or via email:

Online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx

Mail: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Attn: Helena Kesch, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301

Email: D.Publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov">OPRD.Publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov

The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program is seeking community partner comment on changes to its administrative rules regarding youth services and rate setting for these services. The public may testify at public hearings scheduled in January or submit written comments from Dec. 1, 2023 to Jan. 31, 2024. 

VR seeks input on proposed changes to youth services, provided in Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 582 Division 150: Transition Services and Coordination for Students and Youth with Disabilities. All input will be reviewed, and the proposed rules may be modified.

Public Hearings 

Public hearings will be held virtually in January 2023. 

January 10, 2024, 10 to 11 a.m. 

Join ZoomGov Meeting: http://bit.ly/46yrvGg

Meeting ID: 161 755 2659

Passcode: 185803

January 15, 2024, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Join ZoomGov Meeting https://bit.ly/3T3rs1W

Meeting ID: 160 818 1559

Passcode: 330517

January 19, 2024, noon to 1 p.m.

Join ZoomGov Meeting https://bit.ly/3GlKKs3

Meeting ID: 161 449 7621

Passcode: 274647

To receive notice of future public hearings, subscribe to receive email updates from Vocational Rehabilitation. 

Accessibility

CART and an ASL interpreter will be available at the hearings.

You can request accommodation in other languages, large print, braille, or any other format you prefer to submit public comment or attend a public hearing. Contact Robin Brandt at 503-507-5226 or by email at .Policy@odhs.oregon.gov">VR.Policy@odhs.oregon.gov. We accept calls from all forms of relay service for people who are deaf, deaf-blind, hard of hearing or have a speech disability. Please let us know of any accommodations at least a week in advance. We will do our best to accommodate all requests.

Proposed amendments

• Describe the rate setting for contracted services provided to students and youth with disabilities.
• Strengthen language committing to statewide pre-employment transition services for all students with disabilities.
• Clarify services for students with disabilities who are potentially eligible.
• Explain services available for youth and students with disabilities eligible for general vocational rehabilitation services provided in an individualized plan for employment.
• Clarify transition services to groups of students with disabilities and youth with disabilities who may not have yet applied for vocational rehabilitation services.
• Describe VR required information and records required for students to participate in pre-employment transition services.
• Explain the set aside of federal funds to benefit students and youth with disabilities, its purpose and how services are documented.
• Move definitions to this Division that are specific to youth services. New terms for youth vocational rehabilitation services are added.
• Clarify the rule contents generally, review grammar and expand the use of plain language.
• Review and update legal references and names of forms and organizations, as needed.

The proposed rules will be posted on the Vocational Rehabilitation rule making website.

Written comments can be sent to Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation, 500 Summer Street NE E-87, Salem, Oregon 97301-1120 or .Policy@odhs.oregon.gov">VR.Policy@odhs.oregon.gov.

Updates to OAR 582 align with requirements of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), enacted July 22, 2014, (Public Law No. 113-128) and with state and federal requirements.

Questions? Contact Robin Brandt at obin.l.brandt@odhs.oregon.gov">robin.l.brandt@odhs.oregon.gov or 503-507-5226.

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About Vocational Rehabilitation: Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) assists individuals with disabilities to get and keep a job or advance in their career that matches their skills, interests and abilities. VR staff work in partnership with the community and businesses to provide services that are individualized to help each eligible person receive services that are essential to their employment success

On Wednesday, November 22, 2023 a Lincoln City Police Officer spotted 30-year-old Nicolette Heslen AKA Nicolette Dryke of Newport, Oregon, walking in the 800 block of SE Hwy 101. The Officer was aware there was an active felony warrant for Heslen’s arrest issued out of the Oregon State Parole Board for Absconding. The Officer attempted to contact and arrest her, but she fled on foot and was not located.

On Tuesday, November 28, 2023, Lincoln City Police responded to a disturbance occurring in the south Subway located in the south 300 block of Hwy 101. The suspect  creating the disturbance was reportedly damaging store property and a parked vehicle. The suspect fled the scene just prior to officers’ arrival, but was determined to be Nicolette Heslen (AKA Dryke). Heslen has a known history of assaulting officers and resisting arrest.

LCPD Officers, along with Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies, quickly set up a perimeter in the area and LCPD K-9 Nato and LCSO K-9 Ghost were deployed. The two K-9 teams began converging on the thick, wooded area around SE 3^rd Street near Hwy 101. K-9 Nato began alerting in an area overgrown with thick, dense brush and thorny berry bramble. The K-9 Officer could hear the suspect push through the brush, and he began yelling warnings ordering her to surrender because the K-9s were deployed and she could be bitten. She did not comply and continued to make her way through the thick brush and eventually tried to hide in the thick brush near a small creek. Both of the K-9s converged on her last known location and once she realized she was not going to avoid capture, she surrendered peacefully and was taken into custody without further incident.

Heslen was subsequently transported to the Lincoln County Jail where she was lodged on the following charges: Escape III x2, Criminal Mischief II, Disorderly Conduct II and her Felony Parole Violation Warrant. 

The Lincoln City police would like to thank the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and K-9 Team for their assistance. This incident highlights the importance of having the K-9 teams available here in Lincoln City and Lincoln County, which allow law enforcement to quickly locate and safely take wanted persons into custody. The Lincoln City Police are grateful for the incredible community support that allowed us to implement the K-9 program.

2024 Board on Public Safety Standards & Training

 And Policy Committee

Open Vacancies – Recruitment

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

BPSST: Applications must be submitted through Workday.com by end of day December 1, 2023

• Representative of the Private Security Industry
• Two Members Representing the Public
• Administrator of a Municipality recommended to the Governor by the executive body of the League of Oregon Cities

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

Policy Committees: Applications due to Shelby Wright by December 21, 2023

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

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

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

• One member representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a private security provider or investigator
• Representing the Health Care Industry

Police Policy Committee:

• Recommended by and representing the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association
• Recommended by and representing the Oregon Association Chiefs of Police
• Two members representing Non-Management Law Enforcement

Corrections Policy Committee:

• Two members representing Non-Management Corrections Officers
• Recommended by and representing the Oregon Sheriff’s Jail Command Council
• Recommended by and representing the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association

Fire Policy Committee:

• Non-Management Firefighter recommended by a statewide organization of firefighters.

If interested in applying for a Policy Committee position, please complete and submit the Policy Committee Interest Form. This form can also be found under the ‘Boards and Committees Resources’ section of the website linked below.

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

For further information regarding the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training or its respective Policy Committees, please contact Shelby Wright at y.wright@dpsst.oregon.gov">shelby.wright@dpsst.oregon.gov

Thank you,

DPSST Board & Committees Staff

SALEM, Ore— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is accepting additional public comments through Jan. 4 on proposed updates to rules about the collection of marine plants and macroalgae in marine reserves and marine protected areas (OAR 736-021-0090).

The department’s proposed rule changes will allow for collection of marine plants and macroalgae in marine protected areas if allowed under management plans for the area: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx. Updates to Oregon’s Territorial Sea Plan earlier this year changed regulations and management practices in certain protected areas. 

OPRD’s proposed rules would also eliminate outdated requirements for enrolled members of federally recognized tribes in Oregon to seek a permit before collecting marine plants along the ocean shore. 

In October, the agency took public comment on proposed language for this rule. Based on comments received, the agency is updating proposed language to clarify that collection of material is only allowed for enrolled members of federally recognized tribes in Oregon or under management agreements between a tribe and the department.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is accepting comments on the proposed rule changes until 5 p.m. Jan. 4, 2024. Public comments can be made online, in writing or via email:

• Online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx, scroll down to “Open Rulemaking” and find “Marine plant and Macroalgae collection rule update”
• In writing: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, attn.: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301
• Email: D.publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov">OPRD.publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov.

After reviewing public comments, agency staff plan to present a final proposed amended rule to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration at its Feb. 2024 business meeting.

The full text of the proposed amendment to Oregon Administrative Rule 736-021-0090 is available online at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx.

Springfield OR,  Eugene Springfield Firefighters are on scene of a house fire in the 1000 block of 53RD Pl in East Springfield.  At around 5:22 PM Eugene Springfield Fire crews were notified of a house fire, with smoke coming from an attached garage.  Arriving Firefighters found fire in the garage and quickly attacked the fire while additional crews searched the home for occupants.  The fire was contained to the garage thanks to a quick response, but the home did suffer significant smoke damage.  There were no injuries reported, the fire is under control and under investigation.  

Following an extensive search and competitive selection process to fill their vacant Emergency Manager position, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has made a selection to fill this critical position. Current Assistant Emergency Manager, Samantha Buckley, will be appointed the Emergency Manager beginning Friday, December 1, 2023.

“I am very pleased to announce Samantha Buckley will be promoted to Emergency Manager effective December 1^st,” stated Sheriff Landers. “Ms. Buckley demonstrates a strong working knowledge in the field of emergency management, is experienced in the vulnerabilities impacting Lincoln County and the proper response protocols to efficiently manage disasters when they occur.”

Sheriff Landers continued, “One of Ms. Buckley’s strongest attributes is her communication skills and ability to build effective partnerships with cooperating agencies and our community to ensure effective response not only in the event of an emergency, but also through public outreach and preparedness prior to, as well as recovery efforts following a disaster.”

Ms. Buckley has worked in the Sheriff’s Office Emergency Management Division for nearly four years. She also has experience working as a Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coordinator with Coos County prior to her employment with Lincoln County and as a Regional Emergency Coordinator. Ms. Buckley possesses a bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon.

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An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Robert Fort, died the evening of November 29, 2023. Fort was incarcerated at Two Rivers Correctional Institution (TRCI) in Umatilla and passed away at the facility. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Fort entered DOC custody on February 5, 1991, from Deschutes County with a life sentence. Fort was 63 years old.

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of 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.

TRCI is a multi-custody prison in Umatilla that houses approximately 1,800 adults in custody. TRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including institution and industrial laundry, mattress manufacturing, and sewing. Other institution work programs include reparation and cleaning of irrigation ditches, maintenance of local baseball fields, and work with local cities and the Hermiston School District. The facility provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, religious services, and behavioral health services. TRCI opened in 2000.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Warm Springs, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for assaulting his girlfriend and leaving her lying injured in the driveway of her home on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

Maron Brent Graybael, Jr., 38, was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, on May 16, 2023, Graybael Jr. became angry at his girlfriend, grabbed her by her hair, and punched her more than ten times with a closed fist in her abdomen. After the woman fell to the ground, Graybael Jr. kicked her, grabbed her by her hair again, and slammed her head into the ground multiple times. He then left the woman, seriously injured, lying in her driveway, and walked away. After several minutes, the woman called 911 to report her own assault and injuries. Police responded and she was transported to a local hospital.

On June 1, 2023, Graybael Jr. was charged by criminal complaint with assault resulting in serious bodily injury. One week later, on June 7, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland indicted him on the same charge. On August 31, 2023, Graybael was convicted at trial.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Warm Springs Tribal Police Department. It was prosecuted by Pamela Paaso and Suzanne Miles, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

Domestic violence is a serious crime that can include both physical and emotional abuse, and it is frequently hidden from public view. Many survivors suffer in silence, afraid to seek help or not knowing where to turn. The traumatic effects of domestic violence also extend beyond the abused person, impacting family members, friends, and communities.

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you need assistance or know someone who needs help, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Many communities throughout the country have also created support networks to assist survivors in the process of recovery.

The StrongHearts Native Helpline offers culturally specific support and advocacy for American Indian and Alaska Native survivors of domestic violence. Please call 1-844-762-8483 or visit www.strongheartshelpline.org for more information.

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Umatilla County, Ore. 30 Nov. 2023 – OSP Fish and Wildlife Division is seeking public assistance in locating the person(s) responsible for the waste of a Rocky Mountain Elk in Umatilla County.

On Oct. 4, 2023, troopers responded to a call of a Rocky Mountain bull elk that had been shot and left to waste on Hwy. 74, approximately four miles west of Hwy. 395. The investigation determined the bull was killed approximately 100 yards from the highway with a single gunshot wound to the head, then left to waste.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677), or email at TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Reference case number SP23318278.

REPORT WILDLIFE AND HABITAT LAW VIOLATORS 
The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter, Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board. 

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals. 

Preference Point Rewards:
5 Points: Bighorn Sheep
5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat
5 Points: Moose
5 Points: Wolf
4 Points: Elk
4 Points: Deer
4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope
4 Points: Bear
4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

CASH REWARDS

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) Cash Rewards
$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose 
$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope 
$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$300 Habitat Destruction 
$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags
$200 Unlawful Lending/Borrowing Big Game Tag(s)
$200 Game Fish & Shellfish
$200 Game Birds or Furbearers
$200 Spotlighting
$200 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards
$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey
$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox
$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish) 

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards
$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity 
TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)
TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov  (Monitored M-F 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
For more information visit: www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/fw/Pages/tip.aspx

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

Morrow County, Ore. 30 Nov. 2023 – OSP Fish and Wildlife Division is seeking public assistance in locating the person(s) responsible for the waste of two Rocky Mountain Elk in Morrow County.

On Nov. 27, 2023, troopers responded to a call of two elk that had been left partially to waste in a dry creek bed near Lexington. Due to the recent cold weather, it is believed the elk may have been killed in the past week.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677), or email at TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Reference case number SP23376327.

REPORT WILDLIFE AND HABITAT LAW VIOLATORS 

The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter, Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board. 

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals. 

Preference Point Rewards:
5 Points: Bighorn Sheep
5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat
5 Points: Moose
5 Points: Wolf
4 Points: Elk
4 Points: Deer
4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope
4 Points: Bear
4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

CASH REWARDS

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) Cash Rewards
$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose 
$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope 
$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$300 Habitat Destruction 
$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags
$200 Unlawful Lending/Borrowing Big Game Tag(s)
$200 Game Fish & Shellfish
$200 Game Birds or Furbearers
$200 Spotlighting
$200 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards
$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey
$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox
$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish) 

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards
$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity 
TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)
TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov  (Monitored M-F 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
For more information visit: www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/fw/Pages/tip.aspx

# # #

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

November 30, 2023

Media Contact: Amy Bacher, acher2@oha.oregon.gov">amy.bacher2@oha.oregon.gov

OHA updates plan for climate benefits while awaiting federal approval

After federal rules posed added restrictions to the state’s plan, OHA and state partners pursued new avenues to get devices to OHP members

Portland, Ore. – Today Oregon Health Authority (OHA) announced the state will update its plan for how climate-related devices are distributed to eligible Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members prior to a forecasted weather-related emergency. The benefits are projected to begin in March 2024, pending federal government approval.

OHA initially proposed introducing climate benefits for OHP members in January 2024 as part of Oregon’s 1115 Medicaid waiver, which uses federal dollars to provide climate devices like air conditioners, air filtration devices, and portable power supplies to eligible Medicaid members; however, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) informed the state that distributing climate devices prior to an emergency declaration would not be possible.

“The limitation would have severely restricted distribution of climate devices, so we sought feedback from state partners and a more flexible approach,” said Dave Baden, interim director of OHA. “We look forward to continuing to work with CMS and moving toward final approval.”

“Our first priority always is our community,” said Sean Jessup, Chief Executive Officer, Eastern Oregon Coordinated Care Organization (EOCCO). “We’re laser-focused on getting the right resources to our OHP members, particularly in times of greater need. We’re encouraged that this plan will even better serve people.”

Before the new benefits launch, CCO-enrolled OHP members can contact their CCO to see if climate supports are available through “flexible services” (also called health related services). If a member has OHP but is not sure which CCO they are in, they can call the Client Services Unit at 1-800-273-0557 or email: Ask.OHP@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

Additional details will be provided in the coming weeks. Information about Oregon’s 1115 Medicaid waiver is currently available on OHA’s web site, via the waiver newsletter, and through webinars in English and Spanish.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thursday, November 30, 2023

BEND, OR — Days are shorter, and the air is colder… winter is coming! Every Thursday in December, the High Desert Museum will host fun and festive Winter Nights events — offering participants a break from their busy work weeks with unique evenings out. 

For Winter Nights the Museum will remain open until 7:30 pm with seasonal themes as well as a chance to experience new exhibitions and engaging activities for all ages. In addition, the Museum presently has two new exhibitions — Wolves: Photography by Ronan Donovan and Endangered in the High Desert — and will open a third one on Saturday, December 9, Andy Warhol’s Endangered Species: From the Collection of Jordan D. Schnitzer and his Family Foundation.

For this year’s Winter Nights:

• December 7: Welcome to Winter — The first Winter Nights event will feature speedy rounds of Museum trivia! Several rounds will be played, and prizes will be won. Alongside trivia, Museum visitors may enjoy fun beverage tastings from local vendors and a dinner or a treat at the Rimrock Café. Silver Sage Trading will also be open, offering holiday discounts to all and complementary gift wrapping. Cookie decorating and storytelling for kids will also be happening all evening long.
• December 14: College Night– Students with college identification will receive free admission! For this Winter Nights event the Museum encourages all visitors to come dressed in their best vintage snow-wear. The evening will feature speedy rounds of Museum bingo, more regional beverage tastings, cookie decorating and storytelling. Silver Sage Trading – with holiday discounts and gift wrapping – and the Rimrock Café will also be open throughout the evening.
• December 21: Exploring Endangered Species– Bring the family to explore the Museum’s newest exhibits, Wolves: Photography by Ronan Donovan, Endangered in the High Desert and Andy Warhol’s Endangered Species. Like the previous nights, there will be beverage tastings alongside an exhibit-themed scavenger hunt that ends with an art project. Plus, there are sugar cookies to decorate, discounts to be had at Silver Sage Trading and delicious food to eat at the Rimrock Café. All ages are sure to enjoy this evening!
• December 28: By the Fireside – This will be an exciting opportunity to get the entire family out of the house… in pajamas! During the final Winter Nights of the season the Museum will host a pajama party with family portraits, cozy stories, sugar cookie decorating and more delicious craft beverage tastings. 

With up to nine new exhibits opening at the High Desert Museum each year, there is always something new for visitors to explore. October, November and December were no exception, with one new exhibition opening each month. The first, Wolves: Photography by Ronan Donovan, opened on October 21. This stunning exhibition, created by the National Geographic Society and the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson, Wyoming, features Donovan’s images and videos of wolves in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and on Ellesmere Island in the high Canadian Artic. Since 2014, the National Geographic Explorer and photographer has examined the relationship between wild wolves and humans to better understand the animals, our shared history and what drives the persistent human-wolf conflict. To learn more, visit: highdesertmuseum.org/wolves.

Winter Nights visitors can also explore the original exhibit Endangered in the High Desert, which recently opened on November 11. With vibrant colors and engaging photography, this exhibition is meant to ignite conversations about species in the region that are either facing or recovering from the threat of extinction. To learn more, visit: highdesertmuseum.org/endangered-high-desert.

The Museum’s final exhibition opening in 2023, Andy Warhol’s: Endangered Species: From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and his Family Foundation, makes its debut at the Museum on Saturday, December 9. The exhibition will showcase the pop art icon’s complete Endangered Species series (1983), as well as select works from Warhol’s Skull series, Vanishing Animals series and one of Warhol’s iconic Marilyn Monroe works. To learn more, visit: highdesertmuseum.org/warhol.

All three of these exhibitions are key components of the Museum’s yearlong recognition of the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act.

Admission for Winter Nights is $10 general admission and $6 for ages 3-12. Ages 2 and under and Museum members are free. Visitors who arrive earlier in the day may stay for Winter Nights without paying additional admission. The outdoor exhibits are closed during Winter Nights. Regular winter hours are 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/winter-nights.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

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

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Lebanon Fire District and WesternU

COMP-Northwest students publish white paper 

LEBANON, Ore. – For several years, the Lebanon Fire District has partnered with Western University of Health Sciences to establish a service-learning program called the WesternU Lebanon Fire District Emergency Alliance (WLEA). WesternU College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-Northwest (COMP-Northwest) students volunteer as EMTs, firefighters and first responders with the District to complete requirements for graduation.

This year, WLEA students composed a white paper titled “The Strain of Healthcare on EMS in Oregon.” The white paper was done on behalf of the Lebanon Fire District and the Oregon Ambulance Association (OSAA) and was based on an earlier position paper released by the OSAA and the Oregon Fire Chiefs Association (OFCA).

The white paper used information from a survey conducted by OSAA and OFCA sent out to ambulance transporting and non-transporting agencies. Contributors used data from the survey as well as other articles to create the white paper. Key points of interest were labor workforce shortages, training, critical access hospitals and other issues that are exacerbated in rural EMS care areas.

Division Chief of Operations John Tacy, who helped oversee the project, said “as the Chief of Operations, I am very proud of this fine young group of medical students and the paper they produced to bring some of the most critical issues to light that are currently affecting EMS and healthcare in the state of Oregon.”

WLEA/COMP-Northwest students who contributed to the paper were Cameron Smith, Vanessa Hufnagel, Jacob Guimond, Judd Williams, Katelyn Williamson, and Ellen Williams. 

“WesternU Lebanon Fire Emergency Alliance began in 2018 as a recognized Community Service Learning program to embed medical students into the community to gain hands-on experience with patients they will ultimately care for in their future practices,” said COMP-Northwest Assistant Professor of Population Health Jeannie Davis, EdD. “Working with Lebanon Fire District, students have seen and experienced the strain of health care on EMS in Oregon and their research into these issues will make a significant impact in our community and in the state of Oregon.”

The paper can be read in full at this link.

Read more about Community Engagement and Service Learning Education at COMP-Northwest. 

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About the Lebanon Fire District

The Lebanon Fire District is an all-hazards combination career and volunteer district that serves over 34,000 residents in Linn County, Oregon. In 2022, the Lebanon Fire District responded to 6,715 calls for service, including building fires, emergency medical services, wildland fires, hazardous material spills, and rope and technical rescues. The Lebanon Fire District operates out of five fire stations, two of which are staffed 24/7, and three additional volunteer stations.

About Western University of Health Sciences 

Western University of Health Sciences (www.westernu.edu), located in Pomona, Calif. and Lebanon, Ore., is an independent nonprofit health professions university, conferring degrees in biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences, dental medicine, medical sciences, nursing, optometry, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy,  physical therapy, physician assistant studies, podiatric medicine and veterinary medicine. WesternU is home to WesternU Health, where the best in collaborative health care services is offered. 

The Lincoln City Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying potential victims who may have had fraudulent charges placed on their credit cards. On November 17, 2023, the police began an investigation into a credit card fraud scheme that occurred at the north Chevron gas station where persons using their credit cards to purchase fuel had an additional charge placed on their card. A former employee of the station fraudulently placed this additional charge on the card by scanning the card with a device without the knowledge of the card owner. Lincoln City Police believe there may be a large number of additional individuals who fell victim to this credit card fraud scheme. We are asking our residents and visitors of Lincoln City, specifically those who used credit or debit cards at the station on November 4^th, 10^th, 11^th, 15^th and 17^th of this year, to check their bank statements and transaction history for any transaction listed as “Hot Dog Stand”. 

We are taking these additional investigative measures to identify potential victims, but given the nature of the case, this may be a time consuming process. If you or someone you know discovers a transaction consistent with the above information, please call the Lincoln City Police Department at 541-994-3636 and ask for Officer Jon Humphreys or CSO Jim Folmar and reference case LCP23008921. 

The Chevron management has been fully cooperating with the investigation and there is no reason to believe the scheme is still occurring as an initial arrest has been made in this case. On November 17, 2023, the former employee, 43-year-old, Jeremy Michael Brown of Lincoln City, Oregon was arrested on initial charges of Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card, Theft in the Third Degree and Identity Theft. Brown was transported to the Lincoln County Jail and lodged on the listed charges. More information will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. 

Submitted by:  Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn

Technology is always changing and adapting, which means users need to stay updated on the latest information so they can make decisions about their accounts and device security. iPhone users may have noticed the new NameDrop feature that came along with the Apple iOS 17 update. This feature was designed to help users easily share their contact information with new people directly from their iPhone or Apple Watch. The concern that many have brought up is the possibility of sharing their contact information on accident or with people that they do not know. According to Apple’s support website, users will be prompted before information is shared and they do have the option to decline the prompt, move their phone away from another’s, or lock their phone to prevent the transfer. If you would like to turn off the NameDrop feature go to: Settings > General > AirDrop > Bringing Devices Together, then switch “Bringing Devices Together” to off. 

Below are some security tips to consider for your own or your family member’s smart phones:

• Use strong passcodes.
• Consider disabling In-App purchases to prevent accidental purchases.
• Turn off Bluetooth when not in use and only connect to trusted devices.
• Only connect to secure and trusted Wi-Fi networks.
• Use the “Parental Controls” feature under Settings to set screen time limits, set app use restrictions, enable the Communication Safety feature to automatically detect nude photos, and more.
• Monitor app permissions including what apps can update automatically, when they can use your location, and what personal data they collect.
• Keep your devices updated. Software updates usually come with increased security features and more resilient programming.
• Use two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Learn more about your smart phone’s features and security options by visiting your carrier’s website or store.

ROSEBURG, Ore., Nov. 30, 2023 —The Umpqua Community College Performing and Visual Arts present the Vintage Singers performing the annual Twelfth Night concert on January 5 at 7:00 p.m. and January 7 at 3:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Roseburg. The music performance is directed by Donna Spicer. 

This year’s concert will include Pergolesi’s Magnificat featuring Lynda Whittaker, Vicky Brown, Jason Pargeter and Pete Hanson as soloists as well as arrangements of familiar carols. Additional performers will include Hannah LaGassey, violin and Justus Mackintosh, cello as well as The Bone Dawgs, a local trombone ensemble.   

The group is accompanied by Tammy Finch-Johnson and Gwen Soderberg-Chase.

$15 general admission, $10 for seniors, Free for students 

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

The nonprofits support rural and women entrepreneurs, and entrepreneurs of color across Oregon

Portland, Ore.—November 30, 2023—Oregon Community Foundation (OCF)’s Thriving Entrepreneurs Program is awarding 24 Oregon-based nonprofit organizations nearly $575,000 in grant funding to support local entrepreneurs. This funding will be shared among the 24 different nonprofits, all of which provide mentoring, technical assistance, and access to capital for under-resourced entrepreneurs, and help strengthen Oregon’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

This year’s nonprofit grant recipients support a wide variety of entrepreneurs, including Oregon youth, Black and Native American, rural business owners and other diverse entrepreneurs from across the state. During this cycle, each Thriving Entrepreneur grant ranges from $15,000-$25,000. The Thriving Entrepreneurs grant program aims to support entrepreneurs who are overlooked by traditional markets, or lack other resources or access to capital.

“Oregon’s entrepreneurial landscape is growing, and there is so much potential for innovation. The state is home to a diverse array of small businesses, brimming with innovative concepts. Many local entrepreneurs need assistance to develop business plans, recruit skilled teams, or access additional capital to fuel their ventures,” said Maribel De Leon, Program Officer for Economic Vitality. “These entrepreneurs are instrumental in propelling innovation across the state, and supporting them leads to more thriving communities.” 

The Thriving Entrepreneurs Grant is an open, responsive grantmaking opportunity that offers organizations flexible funding. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve entrepreneurs who are women, people of color, living in under-resourced rural communities, or working in under-resourced sectors. Grant funding is only available to nonprofit organizations, and not individuals.

Highlights of OCF’s 2023 Thriving Entrepreneur grantees this year include:

Talent Business Alliance, $25,000

To support local businesses and entrepreneurs at every stage of development by offering technical assistance, networking, and advocacy to expand the vitality of the community of Talent.

As background, Talent lost 60 percent of its businesses in the Almeda Fire. The remaining 40 perfect continue to struggle in the wake of incredible losses from the fire. 

MicroEnterprise Resources Initiatives & Training (MERIT), $25,000

To support Oregon’s diverse business community by providing 20-30 clients with expert entrepreneurial and financial management training, small business training, financial education, and loan program and individual development accounts (IDA). 

Be Blac Foundation, $25,000

To develop and grow the Black community through partnering with and supporting Black-owned and operated businesses/nonprofits and offering culturally specific venture catalyst workshops, training, and bootcamps for emerging and well-established Black business owners and entrepreneurs in Marion and Polk counties. 

Northwest Native Chamber (NNC), $25,000

Builds avenues to wealth creation for Native Americans and other diverse communities through small business development and critical business development training, technical assistance, and other key supports to ensure that Native American small business owners and entrepreneurs have the resources that they need.

NNC expects to support 350 Native American small businesses, and this OCF grant will pay for approximately 160 direct counseling hours through contracted Professional Service Providers, who support clients with industry-specific expertise.

REAP Inc., $25,000

Invests in students grades 3-12 by empowering them to converse with business, community, and political leaders. Specifically, this grant will support REAP’s Young Entrepreneurs Program (YEP), which is a 10-month curriculum that introduces students to the fundamentals of business.

Warm Springs Community Action Team, $25,000

Supports the Warm Springs Reservation through programs with youth, adults, families, and tribal entrepreneurs; employs and trains workers in its coffee shop and food cart and works with hundreds of tribal households each year through workforce trainings, asset building (IDAs), small business promotion, tax assistance, education, and youth programs.

Latino Founders, $25,000

Supports Latino-led startups looking to scale their products, technology, and services statewide. Latino entrepreneurs with a business idea or an existing business participate in a 10-week accelerator program, where they learn business modeling, finance, and prototyping and get paired up with mentors and resources to help them launch and scale their businesses.

The BFM Fund (Black Founders Matter), $25,000

The BFM Fund’s Emerge Initiative supports Oregon-based BIPOC entrepreneurs in the earliest stages of launching their venture with pitch competitions, non-dilutive grant funding, and long-term, culturally relevant mentorship, networking, and connection to accelerator and other investors.

The full list of OCF Thriving Entrepreneur 2023 grantees is here. 

OCF’s Thriving Entrepreneurs Fund is open for contributions. Please visit: https://oregoncf.org/community-impact/impact-areas/economic-and-community-vitality/thriving-entrepreneurs-fund/

About Oregon Community Foundation 

Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) was founded in 1973 with a big mission: to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF works to strengthen communities in every county in Oregon through research, grantmaking and scholarships. In 2022, OCF distributed more than $180 million, supporting 3,500 grantees and awarding more than 3,000 scholarships. With OCF, individuals, families, businesses, and organizations create charitable funds that meet the needs of diverse communities statewide. 2023 marks OCF’s 50th anniversary. Since its founding, OCF has distributed more than $2.2 billion in community investments, including grants to 10,850 nonprofits and 53,375 scholarships to students. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, please visit: oregoncf.org.

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OSP troopers rescue abandoned dogs from U-Haul
25 dogs turned over to the Klamath County Animal Shelter

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. 30 Nov. 2023 – On Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 23, 2023) Oregon State Police troopers responded to the Love’s Truck Stop in Klamath Falls for the report of a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot. A U-Haul truck had been abandoned in the parking lot for approximately two days. When the troopers arrived, they could hear barking from the back of the enclosed truck. 

An investigation revealed the U-Haul had been reported stolen and troopers obtained a search warrant for the vehicle. Troopers found seven cages with 15 abandoned dogs including several puppies. The dogs had been severely neglected; however, all were found alive. The dogs had been abandoned in the back of the U-Haul since Monday, Nov. 20, 2023. 

Troopers contacted two suspects and were able to recover an additional 10 dogs. David Eugene McMillion (50) of Klamath Falls was arrested for Animal Abandonment, Criminal Mischief II, Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle, and Animal Neglect II. Lisa Annette Weeks (39) of Klamath Falls was charged with Animal Abandonment, Unauthorized Use of Vehicle, and Animal Neglect II. 

In all, 25 dogs were turned over the Klamath County Animal Shelter for evaluation and care. One puppy has tested positive for canine parvo. All dogs currently at the shelter have been quarantined and the shelter sanitized to help prevent further spread of the disease. Once medically cleared the dogs will be available for adoption and the animal shelter has already received dozens of adoption applications for the dogs.  

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About the Oregon State Police

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Beaverton, Oregon drug trafficker with a lengthy criminal history was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison Wednesday after he was caught possessing a large quantity of drugs and several firearms.

Roderick Larkins, 54, was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, in late May 2021, the Beaverton Police Department obtained information that Larkins was supplying fentanyl and other drugs to area drug dealers and possessed large quantities of drugs and several firearms in his Beaverton apartment. On May 23, 2021, investigators obtained and executed a search on Larkins apartment. They located and seized more than two pounds each of fentanyl pills and methamphetamine; smaller quantities of heroin, cocaine, and cocaine hydrochloride; a semiautomatic pistol, and two short-barreled assault rifles. Larkins, who was arrested without incident during the search, had tens of thousands of dollars stuffed into his pants pockets.

On July 20, 2021, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an eight-count indictment charging Larkins with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Later, on August 8, 2023, the charges of distributing fentanyl and possessing with intent to distribute heroin were added by superseding indictment.

On August 31, 2023, Larkins pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute heroin.

This case was investigated by the Beaverton Police Department with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and FBI. It was prosecuted by Parakram Singh and Robert Trisotto, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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Benton County is bidding a heartfelt farewell to a beloved holiday tradition—the Pastega Christmas Light Display. This enchanting spectacle of twinkling lights and festive joy has been a cherished tradition since 1981.

Tomi Douglas, the Director of Benton County Natural Areas and Parks, took a moment to express gratitude for Ken Pastega and the dedicated volunteers who have tirelessly upheld this tradition. In a gesture of appreciation, Douglas presented Pastega with an honorary key to the fairgrounds, recognizing decades of effort from the Pastega family in making the holidays truly special in Benton County.

"The work that Ken and the team have done to keep this tradition alive throughout the years is amazing, and we know this won't be the end of holiday traditions in Benton County,” Douglas said.

Douglas highlighted Benton County's commitment to collaborating with the community to explore fresh ideas for holiday traditions at the Benton County Fairgrounds.

Ken Pastega, alongside Mike Strowbridge and Dana Strowbridge, has been at the helm of the drive-thru light display at the fairgrounds for a decade. At 77, Pastega genuinely expresses gratitude for the community's support.

Beyond its visual charm, the Pastega Christmas Light Display has been a force for good. Always free for all, the event encourages visitors to donate canned food, resulting in an impressive 70,000 pounds or more of donations to local food pantries over the years.

“The enjoyment is seeing the kids go through and the adults saying I’ve gone through it every year,” said Pastega.

For now, the community still can revel in the magic of the Pastega Christmas Light Display at the Benton County Fairgrounds every night from 5 to 10 p.m. until December 31. It's a final chance to bask in the warmth of this long-standing holiday tradition. 

“The Pastega Christmas Light Display has been a source of joy for the community, and we look forward to helping ensure new traditions will bring the magic of the season to Benton County for years to come,” Douglas concluded.

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

OSP Fish & Wildlife seeks public assistance to identify poacher
Bull elk left to waste near Scappoose

SCAPPOOSE, Ore. 29 Nov. 2023 – The Oregon State Police Fish & Wildlife Division is asking for the public's help to identify a person of interest related to a Roosevelt Bull Elk that was unlawfully taken and left to waste sometime between 5 p.m. on Nov. 28, 2023, and 7 a.m. on Nov. 29, 2023. The large bull elk was left to waste on Dutch Canyon Road near Scappoose with no effort to remove any meat. This bull was well known and considered to be part of the Miller Herd.

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact Sr. Trooper Scott Bernardi through the Turn in Poachers (TIP) hotline at 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (mobile) or contact Sr. Trooper Bernardi at (503) 410-4165 or scott.bernardi@osp.oregon.gov. 

Photo 1: Bull elk alive on the afternoon of Nov. 28, 2023 
Photo 2: Deceased bull elk with its antlers removed on the morning of Nov. 29, 2023

…

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators 
The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association and the Oregon State Marine Board. 

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following big game mammals. 

Preference Point Rewards:
5 Points-Bighorn Sheep
5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat
5 Points-Moose
5 Points-Wolf
4 Points-Elk
4 Points-Deer
4 Points-Pronghorn Antelope
4 Points-Bear
4 Points-Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

Cash rewards: 

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) Cash Rewards:
$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat or Moose 
$1,000 Elk, Deer or Antelope 
$600 Bear, Cougar or Wolf
$300 Habitat Destruction 
$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags
$200 Unlawful Lending/Borrowing Big Game Tag(s)
$200 Game Fish & Shellfish
$200 Game Birds or Furbearers
$200 Spotlighting
$200 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:
$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey
$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox
$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards
$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity 
TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)
TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov  (Monitored M-F 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
For more information visit: www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/fw/Pages/tip.aspx

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

On Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at 5:02 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 84, near milepost 168, in Morrow County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Kia Sorrento, operated by Samuel Burgus (33) of Umatilla, was slowed in traffic due to a detour related to another crash.  As the Kia slowed and prepared to merge into the slow lane, a Dodge Ram 1500, operated by Miron Kosovan (23) of Kennewick (WA), failed to slow for traffic and struck the rear end of the Kia in the fast lane.

A passenger in the Kia, Alexander James Pace (36) of Hermiston, was declared deceased at the scene.  

The operator of the Kia (Burgus) and a passenger, Oscar Sanchez (49), suffered minor injuries.  A fourth occupant of the Kia, Liobaldo Villa Campos (36) of Hermiston, suffered critical injuries.

The operator of the Dodge (Kosovan) was assessed for injury on-scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation. The investigation is on-going. 

OSP was assisted by Boardman Fire, the Morrow County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT.

On Monday, November 27, 2023, at 11:35 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 101, near milepost 226, in Coos County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound BMW 540, operated by Andrew Chase Carlson (24) of North Bend, had a mechanical issue related to a tire when the operator lost control of the vehicle.  The BMW slid sideways into the oncoming lane and was struck on the passenger side by a southbound Kenworth dump truck, operated by Todd David Szarkowski (42) of Coquille. 

The operator of the BMW (Carlson) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Kenworth (Szarkowski) was not injured.

The highway was impacted for approximately 4 hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by Hauser Fire and ODOT.

JCSO Case 23-7459

PHOENIX, Ore. – The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) joint inter-agency task force served a search warrant this morning at a residence in the 400 block of 5th Street in Phoenix. SOCET served the warrant after discovering numerous images of child exploitation were uploaded from the residence. Detectives are interviewing possible witnesses and involved parties, and investigations are ongoing.

SOCET was assisted by Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, Medford Police Department, Phoenix Police Department, and Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF).

During the warrant, investigators seized digital devices which will be forensically examined by SOHTCTF for further evidence of child exploitation. A tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children started the investigation, which led to subpoenas, followed by the search warrant at the residence. There is no further information available for release.

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(SPRINGFIELD, Ore.) Nov. 29, 2023— PacificSource is pleased to announce the 26 healthcare organizations that will receive funding as part of its annual Community Health Excellence (CHE) program for the 2023 -2024 cycle. Now in its 14^th year, the CHE program has awarded more than $11 million in community grant awards to providers advancing healthcare delivery innovations in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. 

2023-2024 CHE program awards include several projects centered on improving access to services through recruitment, retention, clinic expansion, and healthcare service integration. Additionally, one-third of funded projects focus on reducing health disparities and improving equitable access to care. 

“The CHE program brings to life innovative ideas that help providers heal their patients and improve quality of life,” said Peter McGarry, PacificSource vice president, provider network. “I’m proud to be part of something that gives back—addressing gaps in our delivery system, improving outcomes, and making our communities healthier.”

The CHE one-year and two-year grant recipients are:

Idaho:

• Crosspointe Family Services  
• Family Health Services  
• Desert Sage Health Centers  
• Journey Pediatric Therapy  
• Panhandle Health District 

Montana:

• AWARE 
• Barrett Hospital Foundation 
• Bridgercare 
• Alluvion Health
• Eating Disorder Center of Montana 
• PureView Health Center
• Dynamic Recovery (Two-year grant)
• The Rural Behavioral Health Institute (Two-year grant)

Oregon:

• Care Partners 
• East Cascade Women’s Group 
• Kinship House 
• Lane County 
• OHSU 
• Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital 
• Santiam Hospital 
• WVP Health Authority 

Washington:

• CHAS Health 
• North Olympic Healthcare Network 
• PSW
• One Community Health (Two-year grant)
• OYEN Emotional Wellness Center (Two-year grant)

Through the CHE program, PacificSource funds provider projects that advance healthcare integration, address health disparities and promote equity, and that develop the provider workforce. Applications are independently evaluated, and awards go to organizations that prioritize advancing the Quadruple Aim and demonstrate significant positive impact for their patients, regardless of their insurance or PacificSource member status. 

To be considered for the CHE program contracted PacificSource providers must complete an online application including a detailed budget. The next CHE grant cycle will open in January 2024. For more information, please visit https://www.pacificsource.com/che-program/

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.

UPDATED RELEASE NOVEMBER 29, 2023 11:45 AM

REDDING, CA. - A week after fleeing the scene of a homicide, a Riddle, Oregon man has been located and taken into custody in Redding, California. 

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office in Oregon was notified that on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at 10:15 a.m., the Shasta County Sheriff's Office with the assistance of the United States Marshal's Office took 19-year-old homicide suspect Gauge Douglas James Main of Riddle, Oregon into custody. Main was located at a residence in Redding California. Main had stolen a silver 2017 Honda Civic 4-door sedan following the homicide, which was recovered in Redding late last week. 

Main is suspected of killing 20-year-old Devonte Lovell Clark of Grants Pass and injuring another man. A felony warrant had been issued for his arrest for homicide. Sheriff John Hanlin had requested the assistance of the United States Marshal's Office Fugitive Apprehension Team in locating Main. 

Main has been booked into the Shasta County Jail. 

No further information is available for release at this time. 

ORIGINAL RELEASE

RIDDLE, Ore. - Detectives are renewing their request for information as to the whereabouts of a homicide suspect who killed A Grants Pass man last Monday.

Gauge Douglas James Main of Riddle is wanted in connection to the homicide of 20-year-old Devonte Lovell Clark of Grant Pass. A felony warrant has been issued for his arrest. Main was last known to be in the Northern California area following the homicide.

On Monday, November 20, 2023, shortly after 11:30 p.m., 9-1-1 dispatchers received information about a shooting which had taken place in the area of Main Street / E. Third Avenue in Riddle, Oregon.

Deputies arrived on scene to discover Clark had died at the scene. A second victim, 29-year-old Killian Mavity of Grants Pass, sustained a gunshot wound to the arm.

Main fled the scene of the homicide after stealing a silver 2017 Honda Civic 4-door sedan bearing Oregon license plate 276PAT, which has since been recovered in California.

Detectives say Main is to be considered armed and dangerous. Sheriff John Hanlin has officially enlisted the assistance of the United States Marshal's Fugitive Taskforce in apprehending Main. Anyone with information which may lead to Main's arrest is urged to contact the Douglas County Sheriff's Office at (541) 440-4471 referencing case #23-4651.

The Douglas County Major Crimes Team is investigating the homicide. The investigation is being led by the Douglas County Sheriff's Office. The Major Crimes Team consists of investigators from the Sheriff's Office, Roseburg Police Department and Oregon State Police working in consultation with the Douglas County District Attorney's Office.

Astoria, Ore.— The C.J. Reed Arboretum located at the Oregon Department of Forestry Astoria main district office now has 40 new interactive tree identification signs thanks to a grant from the Society of American Foresters (SAF). The project was completed by members of the SAF Tillamook-Clatsop chapter. 

The signs were designed by Oregon Forest Resources Institute and made by Oregon Corrections Enterprises. Each sign has a QR code that leads to a website for more information about the specific tree species. 

The arboretum was developed in the 1960’s by the Department of Forestry foresters and is named after Chet Reed, the district forester who served in Astoria from 1955 to 1978. The arboretum is also next to walking trails through the demonstration forest. The self-guided demonstration forest is a mile of hiking trails to help visitors learn about basic forestry practices and enjoy interpretive exhibits that explain how active management of timber stands benefit Oregon’s state forests. 

The arboretum and demonstration forest trails are open to the public year-round, 7 days a week from dawn until dusk. More information can be found in the Clatsop State Forest Guide.

SAF is a professional organization of foresters whose mission is to advance sustainable management of forest resources through science, education, and technology; to enhance the competency of its members; to establish professional excellence; and to use their knowledge, skills, and conservation ethic to ensure the continued health, integrity, and use of forests to benefit society in perpetuity. More information can be found here.

Local residents can help support nearly 30 Aide Organizations across Oregon this holiday season

LAKE OSWEGO, Ore., (November 28, 2023) ― Umpqua Bank today announced the launch of its Warm Hearts Winter Drive, an associate-driven campaign to support individuals and families who struggle with access to housing and other basic resources. As part of the drive, associates and local branches in Oregon will help mobilize their respective communities to raise money and collect winter clothing for 28 shelters and aide organizations serving Oregonians experiencing homelessness. 

Umpqua’s Warm Hearts Winter drive continues a community-impact commitment of the former Columbia Bank, which merged with Umpqua earlier this year. The campaign was started in 2015 as a way for bank associates to partner with customers and members of their community to raise funds and other resources for local shelters and nonprofits providing support for families without a home. More than $2 million in contributions has been raised since its inception. This year’s drive expands to support more than 100 organizations in communities across the combined bank’s footprint in Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, Nevada and Utah. 

"As a newly combined bank, Umpqua is committed to mobilizing our greater resources and the collective power and passion of our associates to make a difference in our local communities,” said Umpqua Bank Chief Marketing Officer David Moore Devine. “Access to adequate shelter and clothing continues to be a major challenge for many of our neighbors, and our Warm Hearts campaign empowers associates, along with members of our communities, to support local families in need. Simply donating a few dollars, a new coat or other quality clothing items can help ensure that more of our neighbors are cared for in the months ahead.”

How to Support the Warm Hearts Winter Drive

The Warm Hearts Winter Drive accepts cash donations in addition to new winter clothes. Contributions can be made at www.WarmHeartsWinterDrive.com. Financial contributions and new clothing items can also be donated at local Umpqua Bank branches.

Associates and local branches across Umpqua’s footprint are actively engaged in securing financial contributions and warm clothing from customers and community members. One hundred percent of the clothing and funds collected will be donated directly to local shelters and aide organizations. 

All designated contributions stay in the community where they were raised and directly support local organizations.

Participating Organizations in Oregon:

For more information on the list of benefiting organizations in each county, or to make a cash or new clothing donation, please visit WarmHeartsWinterDrive.com. Those interested in supporting the Warm Hearts campaign may also email community@umpquabank.com for more information.

About Umpqua Bank
Umpqua Bank is a subsidiary of Columbia Banking System Inc., (Nasdaq: COLB) and a premier regional bank in the western U.S., with offices in Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Colorado. With over $50 billion of assets, Umpqua combines the resources, sophistication and expertise of a national bank with a commitment to deliver personalized service at scale. The bank consistently ranks as one of America’s Best Banks (ranked by Forbes) and supports consumers and businesses through a full suite of services, including retail and commercial banking; Small Business Administration lending; institutional and corporate banking; equipment leasing; and wealth management. The bank’s corporate headquarters are located in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Learn more at umpquabank.com.

Salem – A two-day training conference in central Oregon will offer multiple training opportunities for workers in the residential, commercial, and industrial construction industries to increase their safety and health while on the job. The Mid-Oregon Construction Safety Summit, held Jan. 29-30, 2024, will address a variety of topics, including fall protection, excavation safety, silica exposure risks, electrical safety, and safety technologies. 

Attendees will have access to a range of training sessions, including the OSHA 10-hour training for construction, work zone safety and flagging, rigging and signaling for cranes, and first aid. Certifications and recertifications will be available. Also, the conference will offer opportunities to earn continuing education credits, including through Oregon’s Construction Contractors Board and Landscape Contractors Board.

Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (Oregon OSHA), a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, encourages employers and workers to attend the 21st annual Mid-Oregon Construction Safety Summit at the Riverhouse on the Deschutes in Bend. Oregon OSHA is one of several partners presenting the summit. 

The event’s keynote presentation, “Extraordinarily Average Guy,” will be delivered by Dan Plexman, who nearly lost his life in an industrial accident 15 years ago. Since that near-death experience, Plexman has transformed himself into a champion arm wrestler and speaker on workplace safety. His presentation will reinforce critical points to keep in mind when it comes to on-the-job safety and health, including that all workplace accidents are preventable. 

The Mid-Oregon Construction Safety Summit’s other sessions include:

• Preventing fall hazard exposures
• Serious injury fatality prevention
• Mental health awareness
• Employment law update
• Construction A to Z
• Underground line safety
• Safety committees and meetings

Registration for the event’s pre-conference workshops (Monday, Jan. 29) is $70. Conference registration (Tuesday, Jan. 30) is $100. Registration for the OSHA 10-hour training for construction is $150 for both days. The cost of attending the workshop on rigging and signaling for cranes (Monday, Jan. 29) is $295. To register, go to safetyseries.cventevents.com/summit24.

For more information, contact the Oregon OSHA Conference Section, 503-947-7411 or egon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov">oregon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov. For information about other upcoming safety conferences, visit Oregon OSHA’s online conferences page.

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

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

In the evening hours of Tuesday, November 28th, detectives with the Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team (DINT) arrested 39 year old Timothy Hobbs, of Glide, on drugs and weapons charges.  

Detectives were conducting an investigation into Hobbs' activities and interrupted a suspected drug deal occurring in the parking lot of a business in the 2100 block of NE Diamond Lake Blvd in Roseburg.  With the help of officers from the Roseburg Police Department, Hobbs was detained after he drove into the parking lot.  

A search of Hobbs' revealed approximately 4.8 grams of suspected methamphetamine, as well as a spring assisted dagger, and a loaded .38 revolver, both concealed on his person.  As a prior convicted felon, Hobbs is prohibited from possessing the dagger, or the firearm.  

A search of Dobbs' vehicle revealed approximately 26.3 grams of suspected fentanyl, along with other drug paraphernalia.  

Hobbs was lodged at the Douglas County Jail on the following charges:

• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine
• Unlawful Possession of Sch. II Controlled Substance (Fentanyl)
• Unlawful Delivery/Manufacture of Sch. II Controlled Substance (Fentanyl)
• Felon in Possession of a Restricted Weapon
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
• Felon in Possession of a Firearm

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s Cannon Gallery of Art proudly presents the exceptional artwork of the Art & Design Department faculty. This biennial exhibition showcases the remarkable talent and creativity of faculty members, offering a diverse range of artistic expressions to the community.

The exhibition opened in November with a reception that was held at the Cannon Gallery located in the historic Campbell Hall. The event was filled with art, refreshments, and music by Mike Fite.

This year’s biennial exhibition includes the works of Mary Harden, Jodie Garrison, Daniel Tankersley, Rebecca McCannell, Jennifer Vaughn, Jen Bracy, Gregory Poulin, Pete Hoffecker Mejia, and Donna Beverly. Additionally, the exhibition proudly introduces the remarkable contributions of Eric Frey and Laura Killip from the Art & Design staff. 

“The last faculty biennial was in 2021, coming immediately off of the pandemic. This exhibit marks a noticeable shift and a coming back together as a department and as a community. The work in this show is bright, colorful, and conceptually engaging,” shared Paula Booth, Professor of Art and gallery director. “Artists are trying new things, pushing new concepts, and experimenting with materials in new ways – it feels fresh and exciting.”

The exhibition showcases a wide array of media, including painting, printmaking, video, installation, sculpture, collage, and mixed media, and visitors will be captivated by the sheer diversity and creativity of the showcased artworks. The exhibition is open to the public and is available until Dec. 8. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse in the world of art and support the creative endeavors of Western’s talented faculty.

Learn more about the Cannon Gallery of Art at Western Oregon University.

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

Lebanon, Ore.

Firefighters from the Lebanon Fire District responded to the 50^th block of E. Sherman Street for a reported structure fire at approximately 8:45 Tuesday evening, November 28^th. The incident commander (IC) arrived at the two-story complex with fire alarms sounding and local law enforcement helping to evacuate occupants. The IC noticed heavy dark smoke coming from one apartment located on the second floor with smoke coming from a stairwell on the opposite end of the building. A working fire and offensive fire attack was radioed to all incoming units. The first due engine arrived and made an aggressive fire attack to contain the blaze to the room of origin. During suppression efforts, firefighters arriving on a ladder truck began a search of the building on the second floor and evacuated two occupants sleeping in a nearby apartment.

One resident of the complex was evaluated at the scene for smoke inhalation after she used two fire extinguishers to try and extinguish the fire. Because of her efforts, the fire remained in the apartment of origin and did not spread. Firefighters were on scene approximately two hours overhauling the apartment and evacuating smoke. Unfortunately, several residents have been displaced due to smoke damage in their apartments and throughout the common hallway leading to the apartments. One apartment below the fire sustained minor water damage after water came through the ceiling light fixture.

Lebanon Fire responded with 28 personnel on three engines, one ladder truck, three ALS ambulances, one heavy rescue, one brush truck, five staff vehicles and one rehab unit for firefighters. Lebanon Fire was assisted at the scene by Lebanon Police Department and Pacific Power. A thank you to Albany Fire Department and Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District for covering the citizens of Lebanon and additional emergency calls during the blaze.

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

The Lane County Deeds & Records Office is relocating from the County’s Public Service Building at 8^th and Oak in downtown Eugene to the Elections Office at 10^th and Lincoln in Eugene. 

The move will be effective starting on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. The last day for services at the current location will be Friday, December 1. The office will be closed for staff training on Monday, December 4, and the new location will open for service on Tuesday, December 5. 

“Combining the services of the County Clerk’s Office under one roof will help accomplish a couple of things,” said Lane County Clerk Dena Dawson. “It will help us be more efficient in conducting elections since we will no longer need to staff two separate locations. It will also, we hope, make it easier for people to access our services with dedicated parking and an easy to find location.”

The services that will move to the Elections Office (275 W. 10^th Avenue, Eugene) are:

• Real property recording (including deeds, titles or interest to real property located in Lane County)
• Marriage licenses and ceremonies
• Domestic partnership declarations
• Property value appeals

One service of the County Clerk will remain at the Public Service Building: 

• Public research library for real property records

The research library and its self-serve computer terminals will remain at 125 E. 8^th Avenue, Eugene due to the amount of space they require. One staff person will be available to assist with research. 

About the County Clerk’s Office

The County Clerk and her staff are responsible for conducting elections, recording real property, issuing marriage licenses and domestic partnership registrations, and coordinating the Property Values Appeal Board. Services are now located at 275 W. 10^th Avenue, Eugene) from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday–Friday. Property records research is available on the ground floor of the Public Service Building at 125 E. 8^th Avenue, Eugene. 

The elderly male has been identified as 84 year old Daniel W. Sagaitis of Waldport, OR. Mr. Sagaitis was on his morning walk when it is believed he experienced an unknown medical condition. 

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On November 28^th 2023 around 6:19 AM a citizen traveling on S. Crestline Drive observed an elderly male laying on the shoulder of the roadway, in the 3000 block of S. Crestline Drive. The citizen rendered aid and called 911. Deputies with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office arrived and assisted performing CPR until additional Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived. 

At 6:58 AM EMS professionals determined the elderly male was deceased. The preliminary investigation revealed there were no signs of trauma or foul play. Any further inquiries regarding this investigation can be sent to the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office who is the acting Lincoln County Medical Examiner. 

Vancouver, Washington—November 29, 2023—The Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) announces Angel Reyes has been appointed to the organization’s Board of Directors. As Keybank’s Corporate Responsibility Officer for their Oregon/SW Washington and Idaho markets, Angel oversees the philanthropic budget and investment strategies to meet community needs. He also holds a pivotal role as the national chair for KeyBank’s Hispanic-Latinx Key Business Impact and Networking Group (HLKBING), which helps create an inclusive and stronger workplace for all.

Angel’s interest in NWABA came about after he heard an inspirational story from one of NWABA’s youth athletes, Eric G., about his struggles and subsequent success in joining his high school swim team after participating in sports with NWABA through their programs and services.

By joining NWABA’s board, Angel hopes to provide representation for the Hispanic/Latinx community, as well as increased access to the visually impaired community. Angel is looking forward to participating in future NWABA program events such as kayaking and weightlifting.

“I couldn’t be more excited to join the Board of Directors with NWABA,” said Angel Reyes, KeyBank Corporate Responsibility Officer for Oregon/SW Washington and Idaho. “The work this organization is doing to help the blind and visually impaired is making real change. The gift of movement, confidence, skills and community will last a lifetime for these athletes. I am thrilled to be part of this journey and to help make meaningful impact.”

Through his employment and his personal endeavors, Angel is committed to service in his community. He previously held a pivotal role as national chair for KeyBank's Hispanic-Latinx Key Business Impact and Networking Group (HLKBING), which helps create an inclusive and stronger workplace for all. He currently is a committee member for Columbia Gorge Community College and the Cinema Unbound Awards, a project of the Portland Art Museum, in addition to serving as a board member for the Latino Network. He has also been affiliated with and supported United Way, Columbia Center for The Arts, The Next Door Inc., Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber, Familias en Accion and LatinoBuilt.

Angel will join other community leaders throughout the region in helping Northwest Association for Blind Athletes achieving its mission of providing life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. 

About NWABA: 
The mission of Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is to provide life-changing opportunities through sports and physical activity to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. A group of students who were visually impaired formed the association in 2007 to ensure that people who are blind were participating in sports and physical activity. Today, NWABA is a rapidly expanding 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides more than 3,000 program and service interactions to children, youth, adults, and military veterans with visual impairments tailored programming which improves self-confidence and self-esteem, promotes independence, creates an inclusive community of supporters, and builds the skills necessary to succeed in all areas of life including school and employment.

Portland, OR — The holiday season is just around the corner, and the Oregon Historical Society (OHS) has events and exhibits to help get into the spirit of the season! Mark your calendar for these upcoming events at the Oregon Historical Society (1200 SW Park Avenue, Portland, OR 97205), many that are free and open to the all!

Holiday Cheer: A Celebration of Oregon Authors
Sunday, December 3, 12pm to 4pm

Join us as we kick off the holiday season with our annual celebration of Oregon’s literary talents, Holiday Cheer, on Sunday, December 3. Chat with 65+ local authors as you sip on hot cocoa, listen to carols, and get a jump on your holiday shopping!  

For 54 years, the Oregon Historical Society has celebrated the state’s rich literary talents at this annual book signing event. This year, some of the Pacific Northwest’s most prominent authors will be at OHS selling everything from children’s books to guidebooks to mysteries to histories! View a full list of participating authors at ohs.org/holidaycheer.

To add to the holiday cheer, The Dickens Carolers will be strolling through the museum performing lively holiday songs from 1:30pm–2:30pm. Holiday Cheer begins at noon at and authors will be signing until 4pm. Admission is free to both the book sale and to visit museum exhibitions, with OHS’s galleries open until 5pm. 

Book sales at Holiday Cheer support the Oregon Historical Society’s mission to preserve our state’s history and make it accessible to everyone in ways that advance knowledge and inspire curiosity about all the people, places, and events that have shaped Oregon.

Meier & Frank Santaland Exhibit
On view December 1–31

When the downtown Macy’s department store closed in 2017, OHS had the opportunity to add items from the popular Meier & Frank Santaland attraction to its prop collection and begin a new holiday tradition: Santaland at the Oregon Historical Society. 

Visit this nostalgic vignette in our museum, which features items from the original Meier & Frank Santaland including Rudolph, animatronic elves, holiday decor, a model of the famous monorail, and even the famous Cinnamon Bear costume! Each year, our museum team adds a new “Easter egg” to the display; can you spot the difference this year?

Plus, Santa himself will make an appearance in Santaland on Sunday, December 10, from 1pm to 4pm. Take a photo with Santa as he sits atop the classic throne in Santaland for the perfect holiday snapshot! Museum admission will be free all day.

Minidoka Swing Band Concert
Thursday, December 7, 12pm to 1pm

The Minidoka Swing Band was formed in 2007 to remember the music and big bands that were popular inside World War II Japanese American incarceration camps to help make life more normal for the imprisoned incarcerees. The Oregon Historical Society is thrilled to host the Minidoka Swing Band for a concert on Pearl Harbor Day in our pavilion at noon. Admission is free and all are welcome.

The Minidoka Swing Band was formed by the late Roberta (Robbie) Tsuboi for a 2008 pilgrimage to the Minidoka Internment Camp. The band consists of 17 musicians and two vocalists, three of whom were incarcerated during WWII. Relatives of several bandmembers were also incarcerated. The band connects audiences to the time when all internees needed something to uplift them and help them feel typically American. 

The Minidoka Swing Band continues to play the music of The Harmonaires, a Seattle-based band formally known as the Mikados of Swing, as a tribute to Minidoka and all the internees who suffered a great loss during those difficult years. This performance will include narration between songs by Nola Sugai Bogle, who was incarcerated with her family at Minidoka.

About the Oregon Historical Society

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

SALEM, Ore. - Oregon Governor Tina Kotek served as the Presiding Officer for Brig. Gen.  Alan R. Gronewold’s appointment as The Adjutant General (TAG) of the Oregon National Guard, during an Investiture Ceremony held at Salem, Oregon on November 28, 2023. Governor Kotek appointed Gronewold to the position in October. 

The ceremony took place at the Oregon State Library with family, friends and members of the Oregon National Guard, including former Adjutants General Maj. Gen. (ret.) Raymond F. Rees, and Maj. Gen. (ret.) Michael E. Stencel. 

Governor Kotek provided remarks and then administered the oath for Brig. Gen. Gronewold. 

“The Oregon National Guard has distinguished itself many times over in its service to our state in times of need, dedication to supporting federal missions, and commitment to continued excellence in training and readiness for the greatest of challenges,” Governor Kotek said. “I am confident that Brig. Gen. Gronewold will continue and expand upon this legacy.”

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Released Photos and Video B-Roll:

231128-Z-CH590-1002: Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold stand for the Playing of Honors during the Investiture Ceremony held at the Oregon State Library, Salem, Oregon on Nov. 28, 2023. During the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Gronewold was sworn into the office as The Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

231128-Z-CH590-1008: Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek delivers remarks to those in attendance for the Investiture Ceremony held for Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, held at the Oregon State Library, Salem, Oregon on Nov. 28, 2023 as he became the 32^nd Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard. Gov. Kotek served as the Presiding Officer for the ceremony. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

231128-Z-CH590-1021: Oregon Governor Tina Kotek administers the Oath of Office for Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold during the Investiture Ceremony held at the Oregon State Library, Salem, Oregon on Nov. 28, 2023. During the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Gronewold was sworn into the office as The Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

231128-Z-CH590-1034: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold is congratulated by those in attendance during the Investiture Ceremony held at the Oregon State Library, Salem, Oregon on Nov. 28, 2023. Gov. Tina Kotek served as the Presiding Officer for the ceremony. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

231128-Z-CH590-1061: Former Oregon Adjutant General Maj. Gen. (ret.) Michael E. Stencel (left) congratulates Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold (right) following the conclusion of his Investiture Ceremony held at the Oregon State Library, Salem, Oregon on Nov. 28, 2023. During the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Gronewold was sworn into the office as The Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

231128-Z-CH590-1062: United States Military Academy Class of 1996 graduates gather for a group photograph with Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold (center) following his appointment as The Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard following the Investiture Ceremony held at the Oregon State Library, Salem, Oregon on Nov. 28, 2023. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

231128-Z-CH590-1069: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, pauses for a family photograph following the Investiture ceremony held at the Oregon State Library, Salem, Oregon on Nov. 28, 2023. During the Ceremony, Brig. Gen. Gronewold was sworn into the office as The Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

https://dvidshub.net/r/lg34ct

Home care and hospice nurses are fighting for a fair contract to address record turnover and job vacancies.

(Eugene, Ore.) - Dozens of local nurses, health care providers, elected officials and community supporters are leading an informational picket and rally outside PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services offices in downtown Eugene Wednesday, Nov. 29 from 5 - 7 p.m. Home health and hospice nurses are demanding PeaceHealth address its growing home care staffing crisis and compensate nurses equitably to meet the community's increasing health needs.

Sacred Heart Home Care nurses travel to patients’ homes to provide vital medical and end-of-life care for residents throughout Lane County. After almost a year of unsuccessful contract bargaining with PeaceHealth, dozens of home care nurses have already left and a staggering one-third of home care nurses plan to leave next year if their contract isn’t resolved equitably.

Frontline nurses working at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA).

WHAT: Nurse Informational Picket and Public Rally

WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023. 5 - 7 p.m.
 
WHERE: Outside PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services offices in downtown Eugene. 
677 E 12th Ave. Eugene, OR 97401

WHO: Home health, home infusion and hospice nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Home Care Services, along with other health care workers, elected officials and community supporters including Oregon State Senator James Manning, State Representative Julie Fahey, Eugene City Councilors Matt Keating, and Jennifer Yeh as well as other community leaders.

Reporters and media representatives are encouraged to attend this event to capture the stories and voices of frontline home care and hospice nurses and inform the community about record turnover and worsening care conditions.

WHY: Sacred Heart Home Care nurses play an essential, but often unseen, role in our community. No matter where you call home–an urban apartment, rural house in the country or a tent under the freeway–home care nurses meet you where you are to deliver health care you can’t get anywhere else. They help patients return home to continue healing after being hospitalized for traumatic injuries or illnesses. They also assist patients and their families transition into the final stages of life with expert support, care and guidance to give sick and dying individuals dignity and freedom.

Despite their essential work, PeaceHealth has dragged out home care nurses’ contract negotiations for a year and continues to low-ball home care nurses with inequitable compensation which is less than other similar home health agencies and significantly less than PeaceHealth pays Sacred Heart hospital nurses–despite previously paying them equally. 

PeaceHealth’s disrespect towards home care nurses is driving many local nurses to quit–threatening patients’ care and placing an undue burden on the nurses left behind who are forced to take on even more work.  

PeaceHealth’s failure to retain and recruit home care nurses has real impacts for vulnerable patients who are experiencing delays and a loss of service. PeaceHealth was only able to admit 57% of hospital-referred home care patients into its programs in a timely fashion in October. The national average is 95%.

Local nurses are demanding PeaceHealth executives in Vancouver come to the table to reach a fair contract agreement that enables them to recruit and retain the highly skilled and valuable nurses who care for some of the most complex home care patients in the state.

Nurses have been bargaining for a new contract since January 2023. PeaceHealth allowed nurses’ contract to expire in April 2023 and has refused to reach an agreement with home care nurses despite coming to terms with local hospital nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center in August. 

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is the state’s largest and most influential nursing organization. We are a professional association and labor union which represents more than 17,000 nurses and allied health workers throughout the state, including 1,500 frontline nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center and Sacred Heart Home Care Services. ONA’s mission is to advocate for nursing, quality health care and healthy communities. For more information visit: www.OregonRN.org.

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[CORVALLIS, Oregon]—Today, the Benton County Board of Commissioners announced a temporary pause of Disposal Site Advisory Committee (DSAC) activities after compelling testimony by the Community Development Director warning of significant challenges with the DSAC Board meetings including actions by some advisory council members that block any substantial progress. 

The decision to pause was made by the Board of Commissioners during their regularly scheduled meeting on November 28 so steps can be taken to overhaul the bylaws and the structure of the meetings to be constructive, transparent and inclusive of all Benton County community members.  

The Board said this decision underscores their steadfast commitment to ensuring a productive and safe committee environment, ultimately allowing DSAC to serve the Benton County community effectively.

During testimony, Benton County Community Development Department Director Darren Nichols expressed concerns that the committee has faced major obstacles preventing the Committee from fulfilling its mission which includes bullying, disinformation, threats of violence, and a lack of progress in committee work that has led to the recent resignations of five committee members.

Benton County Administrator Rachel McEneny has acknowledged these events within the committee and emphasized the importance of transparent and productive committees and public meetings. McEneny has conveyed the County's commitment to addressing these issues during this pause. 

"The serious breakdown in the committee's ability to communicate effectively necessitates this pause. We recognize the importance of committees and public meetings and will work diligently to ensure the committee can resume and fulfill its intended purpose as quickly as possible," McEneny said.

During Nichols’ testimony, he also highlighted a growing list of potential partners willing to assist in addressing sustainable materials' future in Benton County and Oregon. These partners include cities, counties, state agencies, academic and industry representatives, and community leaders committed to collaborative solutions for solid waste challenges. DSAC is tasked with implementing Oregon State law, long-range monitoring of the disposal site, providing a forum for resident comments and concerns, as well as preparing an annual written report.

View the printed testimony or watch the testimony from Nichols and the Board’s response, and forward it to 37 minutes and 8 seconds.

Learn more about the Benton County Disposal Site Advisory Committee (DSAC).

DSAC is required in statute by Oregon law.

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

On November 27, 2023, 26-year-old Douglas Quintanilla pleaded guilty to Attempted Robbery and Bias Crime in the First Degree. The guilty pleas resulted from an incident that took place on October 7, 2023. On that date, Quintanilla entered the Safeway on 3380 Lancaster Dr. NE in Salem. Quintanilla grabbed various items for sale by Safeway, then left the store without having paid for these items. The victim, James Murphy (Murphy), is a loss prevention officer for Safeway. Murphy is transgender and prefers the term male to female transitional. Murphy tried to stop Quintanilla when it became apparent that Quintanilla had no intention of paying for the items. When Murphy stopped Quintanilla by the exit doors and grabbed the bag where Quintanilla had placed the stolen items, Quintanilla then pulled on the bag to get it away from Murphy. Quintanilla then threatened to stab Murphy and reached into his pocket as if he had a knife. Thinking that he was about to get stabbed, Murphy let go of Quintanilla’s bag.  It was at this time that Quintanilla called Murphy a slur which is highly offensive toward the LGBTQ+ community. This slur was said multiple times, directly to Murphy’s face, and with great indignation. Police were promptly called and arrested Quintanilla who was a short distance away from Safeway.

While pleading guilty to Attempted Robbery 2 and Bias Crime 1 on 23CR49233, Quintanilla also pleaded guilty to two additional misdemeanor thefts (from the Target on Lancaster) and a probation violation on another case. Defense attorney David Kuhns had arranged for Quintanilla to enter inpatient drug treatment at City Team in Portland. Marion County Circuit Court Judge, Daniel J. Wren, required that successful completion of drug treatment is an expressed requirement of Quintanilla’s probation. During his 3 years of supervised probation, Quintanilla is to have no contact with Murphy, no physical presence at Safeway or Target, and to obey all laws. Should Quintanilla violate the terms of his probation and his probation be revoked, he faces 21 to 24 months in prison.

In a unique conclusion to this matter, Quintanilla wrote an apology letter to Murphy, who was present at Quintanilla’s sentencing. Murphy also had the opportunity to speak directly to the victim, but also to Judge Wren. For Murphy, this was about more than being the victim of an attempted robbery.  Due to the hateful names Murphy was called, Murphy not only lost interest in his job, but he lost interest in living for a couple of weeks. Despite going through this dark period, Murphy stated he wished that this was truly a turning point for Quintanilla and that Quintanilla make the most of this last chance he was given.

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the Salem Police Department in its prompt and thorough investigation into this matter. But, most of all, the District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Murphy for his participation in yesterday’s sentencing, re-enforcing the District Attorney’s commitment that Bias type crimes will not be tolerated in Marion County. 

Correction: The location should read Elk St- not Oak St.

On Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 2:39 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle crash on Hwy 99, at the intersection with Oak St, in Jackson County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Hyundai Elantra, operated by Melissa Dolmage (38) of Medford, was stopped on Oak St, at the intersection with Hwy 99, when it turned left onto Hwy 99 southbound. The Hyundai entered the path of a northbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Kevin L. Norman (69) of Central Point, causing a side impact collision.

The operator of the Harley Davidson (Norman) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Hyundai (Dolmage) and passenger, a male infant, were not injured.

The highway was impacted for approximately 2.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. The operator of the Hyundai was cooperating with investigators.

OSP was assisted by the Central Point Police Department, the Medford Police Department, and ODOT.

Meals on Wheels, Rose Haven and Portland Housing Center are among the latest recipients in a record year of giving for Oregon’s largest credit union.

PORTLAND, Ore.November 28, 2023— OnPoint Community Credit Union announced today it set a new record in annual giving for the credit union, with more than $2.5 million donated to nonprofits in Oregon and Southwest Washington in 2023. OnPoint made the announcement on Giving Tuesday, with this year’s donations focused on diversity, equity and inclusion, financial education, food and shelter, climate change and youth services.

OnPoint’s record-breaking year of giving includes today’s $100,000 donation to be divided between eight nonprofits that provide food and shelter relief to Oregonians and Southwest Washingtonians. Meals on Wheels People, Rose Haven and Portland Housing Center will each use the $25,000 gift from OnPoint to advance their missions of providing food security, day shelter and valuable resources to underserved communities in the Portland metro area. 

OnPoint will also donate $5,000 to each of the following regional nonprofits: Family Kitchen in Central Oregon, Eugene Mission, Marion Polk Food Share in Salem, Council for the Homeless in Southwest Washington and McMinnville Area Habitat for Humanity.

“OnPoint is honored to partner with these remarkable organizations that work tirelessly to enhance the lives of others in our community,” said Rob Stuart, President and CEO of OnPoint. "Each of these organizations goes above and beyond to not only help those in need but also to create a sense of belonging and community."

About OnPoint’s $25,000 Giving Tuesday recipients in 2023

Rose Haven 

Rose Haven is Multnomah County’s only day shelter and community center open to women, children and gender-diverse people. Serving 150-175 guests per day, the Northwest Portland nonprofit first addresses guests’ most basic needs, including healthy meals, high-quality clothes, personal care products and clean showers and toilets. Rose Haven will use OnPoint’s donation to provide guests with meals, personal care supplies, bus tickets and financial assistance for rent, utilities and medical emergencies. 

Meals on Wheels People 

Meals on Wheels People was founded in 1970 by three women who saw an unmet need in the community. They gathered in the basement of the Lincoln Street Methodist Church in February 1970 to serve a hot lunch to about a dozen seniors and then delivered 14 Meals on Wheels on paper plates wrapped in newspaper. Today, Meals on Wheels produces more than 1.3M meals a year in a 14,000-square-foot commercial kitchen located in the heart of Multnomah Village. With this donation from OnPoint, Meals on Wheels People will continue to deliver hot meals to dozens of dining centers and homebound older adults throughout Multnomah, Washington and Clark counties.

Portland Housing Center

Portland Housing Center (PHC) believes everyone deserves access to homeownership. Owning a home is the most accessible, largest, and often only source of long-term and generational wealth for households, particularly for first generation homebuyers. PHC makes homeownership possible through quality financial and homebuyer education, one-on-one counseling, financial services, and down payment assistance. PHC has helped more than 10,000 families become successful, financially secure homeowners throughout the state of Oregon. And they continue to support local families in becoming homeowners, despite the increasing difficulty of accessing affordable homeownership, thanks to support from donors and partnerships with local organizations.

Partnering with nonprofits beyond the Portland metro area

OnPoint's donations to nonprofits supporting food and shelter needs extend to other Oregon and SW Washington regions. OnPoint will donate an additional $5,000 to each of the following nonprofits serving Clark County, Central Oregon, Eugene, Salem and McMinnville: 

• Family Kitchen provides nearly 3,000 fresh meals each week to shelters, low-income housing and camps throughout the Bend area.
• Eugene Mission provides food and shelter and a long-term path out of homelessness.
• Marion Polk Food Share distributes nutritious food to more than 100 local food pantries and meal sites.
• Council for the Homeless a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide community leadership and practical solutions to prevent and end homelessness in Clark County, Washington.
• McMinnville Area Habitat for Humanity, an organization that envisions a community where everyone has a safe, decent, affordable place to live.

Growing our commitment to building more equitable communities

OnPoint has significantly expanded its charitable giving efforts, exceeding its annual giving record every year since 2020. This year’s giving includes $307,289 in donations to nonprofits focused on providing financial education to Oregon’s youth, including Financial Beginnings of Oregon, Portland Workforce Alliance, Youth Villages, Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver and Junior Achievement of Oregon and SW Washington. 

As part of OnPoint’s Green Horizons initiative, the credit union made a $100,000 donation this year to nonprofits focused on fighting the impacts of climate change , donating $25,000 each to The Nature Conservancy in Oregon, Ecotrust, Oregon Environment Council and SOLVE Oregon. 

More than $800,000 of this year’s giving also went to nonprofits advocating for diversity, equity and inclusion, including but not limited to:

• Adelante Mujeres
• APANO Communities United Fund
• Black United Fund of Oregon 
• Cascade AIDS Project
• Coalition of Communities of Color 
• FACT Oregon
• Girls, Inc. of the Pacific Northwest
• Hacienda CDC
• Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO)
• In4All
• KairosPDX
• Latino Network
• Native American Youth & Family Center
• North Pole Studio
• Oregon Pride in Business (ORPIB)
• Outside In
• Portland NAACP
• Raphael House 
• Self Enhancement, Inc.
• Unite Oregon
• Urban League of Portland 

Giving continues with OnPoint’s annual holiday social giving campaign 

OnPoint is also kicking off its holiday social giving campaign on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. From November 28 to December 8, OnPoint followers can nominate their favorite nonprofit to receive a donation from the credit union by following/liking OnPoint channels and sharing the nonprofit they support. From the pool of finalists with the most nominations, one organization will be named the grand prize winner of $5,000 and the next closest five organizations will each receive $2,500.  

Participants can vote through the credit union’s social media channels by tagging OnPoint and using the #OnPointGiving hashtag or commenting on one of its social media posts. 

About OnPoint’s Giving Program

OnPoint provides funding for nonprofits that positively impact its membership area. For more information about OnPoint’s giving program, visit onpointcu.com/community-giving. 

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 537,000 members and with assets of $8.8 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

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Give the gift of the outdoors and save this season with the Oregon State Parks 12-month parking permit sale during the month of December.

The permit hangtag once again features whimsical designs from Portland artist El Tran. Holiday shoppers can buy the annual parking permits for only $25, which is a $5 savings starting Dec. 1 and running through Dec. 31. The permit is good for 12 months starting in the month of purchase.

Purchasing permits is easy. Buy them online at the Oregon State Parks store (use the drop down menu to pick your favorite design). Parking permits are also sold at some state park friends' group stores and select local businesses throughout the state. For a complete list of vendors, visit stateparks.oregon.gov.

Parking costs $5 a day at 25 Oregon state parks unless you have a 12- or 24-month parking permit or a same-day camping receipt. The 24-month pass is $50 and is also available at store.oregonstateparks.org. The permits are transferable from vehicle to vehicle.

OAKLAND, Ore. - A Sutherlin woman died in a single vehicle traffic crash on Saturday.

On Saturday, November 25, 2023, shortly before 11:00 pm, 9-1-1 dispatchers received a report of an injury traffic crash in the 15000-block of Highway 99N near Oakland.

Upon arrival, deputies determined the driver of the 2012 Dodge Journey had been traveling south on Highway 99 before the vehicle left the roadway and crashed into a culvert. The driver was identified as 52-year-old Jennifer Ann Levy of Sutherlin. Despite lifesaving efforts, Levy, who was unrestrained in the vehicle, was declared deceased at the scene. Alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.

The Sheriff's Office was assisted at the scene by the Sutherlin Police Department, Oakland Rural Fire District, Umpqua Valley Ambulance and Roseburg Towing.

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet on Monday, December 11, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. PST. This public meeting will be conducted via teleconference. 

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/boardagenda_12_11_2023.pdf

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

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On Sunday, November 26, 2023, at 12:15 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 36, near milepost 1, in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Ford Explorer, operated by Benjamin William Beecher (72) of Florence, crossed the centerline of an icy curve into the eastbound lane and struck a Honda Civic, operated by Jeffrey Wayne Varga (18) of North Bend.  The Ford became airborne and came to rest, fully submerged, in the Siuslaw River.

The operator of the Ford (Beecher) was declared deceased at the scene by Lane County Search and Rescue, who responded with a dive team to assist with the submerged vehicle.

The operator of the Honda (Jeffrey Varga) and passenger, Geneva Mae Varga (21) of North Bend, were transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.

The highway was impacted for approximately 5 hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Lane County Sheriff's Office, Siuslaw Valley Fire, and ODOT.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man, who for more than a decade claimed to be a successful foreign exchange currency trader to solicit millions of dollars in investments, has been indicted in federal court for wire fraud.

William Bennington, 52, a resident of Portland, has been charged with five counts of wire fraud.

According to the indictment, from March 2012 until at least October 2022, Bennington is alleged to have knowingly and intentionally devised and carried out a scheme wherein he purported to be a wealthy foreign exchange currency trader to solicit investments in WBFX LLC, a foreign currency investment company Bennington incorporated in Oregon in 2010. Bennington promised his investors annual returns of up to 80 percent and repayment terms as short as six months. He further falsely claimed to have written a proprietary trading algorithm, which he alleged was the source of his wealth.

Over the course of his scheme, Bennington is alleged to have caused at least five individual victims to pay him more than $2 million. Instead of investing his victims’ money in foreign exchange currency markets as promised, Bennington spent it on various personal expenses.

Bennington appeared in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and released pending a five-day jury trial scheduled to begin on January 9, 2024.

Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison per count of conviction.

This case was investigated by the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Robert S. Trisotto, Assistant U.S. Attorney 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.

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Coos Bay, Ore.  – The Bureau of Land Management’s Western Oregon Resource Advisory Council (RAC) will meet virtually on December 5 and 6, 2023. The RAC will consider restoration projects for funding. 

RAC members will review 48 Secure Rural Schools Title II funding proposals and make recommendations for funding. Approximately $2.8 million is available for distribution. Projects must provide community-based solutions to pressing public lands challenges like watershed restoration, wildland fire prevention, trash clean-up, road maintenance, control of noxious weeds, and more. 

Title II funds help make investments in public lands and create employment opportunities. Over the years, projects funded through the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act have provided trail maintenance, culvert replacement or removal, or wildfire hazard reduction on public lands. Other projects assisted with stream channel enhancement, noxious weed control, or opportunities for youth training and employment. These projects also improve cooperative relationships among the people that use and care for public lands and the agencies that manage these lands. 

“The Western Oregon RAC is made up of valuable partners who represent the diverse perspectives of Western Oregon communities,” said Roseburg District Manager Heather Whitman. “Their work on Secure Rural Schools funding is critical for our local communities and to the overall health of public lands.”

The meetings start at 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time (PT) each day. The meetings are open to the public, with a public comment period scheduled for 3:00 p.m. PT on December 5 and 1:30 p.m. PT on December 6. Individuals making a statement during the public comment period are encouraged to also submit a written copy of their statement for the administrative record.

The meetings will be held on the Zoom platform. Please contact Megan Harper, Public Affairs Specialist for the Coos Bay District, at (541) 751-4353 or m1harper@blm.gov to receive a link to attend the Zoom meeting. People needing reasonable accommodation, such as sign language interpretation, should contact Megan Harper, Advisory Council Coordinator, m1harper@blm.gov or at (541) 751-4353 at least 7 business days prior to the meeting to give the BLM sufficient time to process your request.

The Western Oregon RAC meets multiple times a year. It is one of several citizen advisory councils throughout Oregon and Washington. The Secretary of the Interior appoints the RAC’s 15 members. Members represent a broad range of public land interests, including environmental, local government, recreation, timber, and commercial activity. The Western Oregon RAC advises the BLM’s Coos Bay, Medford, Roseburg, and Northwest Districts, and parts of the Lakeview District.

For more information about the Western Oregon RAC, visit: https://www.blm.gov/get-involved/resource-advisory-council/near-you/oregon-washington.

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

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to host the 56th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, a beloved event that brings joy and unity to campus and the community. This year's ceremony promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend. The lighting of the magnificent 123-foot sequoia tree will mark the beginning of the holiday season, creating a magical atmosphere that embodies the true spirit of the season.

The event will commence Friday, Dec. 1, at 5:30 p.m. with a cocoa and cider alumni networking event, followed by the festive holiday parade, starting at the Monmouth Library and culminating on Western's campus, in front of the sequoia tree for the tree lighting at 6 p.m. Students, faculty, staff, community members, and the public are all invited to participate in the celebration.

Western’s President Peters emphasized in a recent OregonLive article that the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is a testament to Western's commitment to community engagement. It serves as a reminder of the university's dedication to being a community-focused institution that welcomes and celebrates everyone. The ceremony allows individuals to come together, connect, and celebrate each other in the season's true spirit.

The celebration will feature a range of activities, including a holiday parade, the lighting of the tree, photo opportunities with Santa, and cookie decorating. These activities have become cherished traditions that create lasting memories for all. 

Schedule of Events:

Friday, December 1st

Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting!

5:30 pm –Cocoa and Cider sponsored by Alumni Relations next to the Sequoia tree

Free WOU swag will be given away on a first-come-first-serve basis.

6 pm: Holiday Light Parade and WOU’s Annual Tree Lighting

Celebrate the beginning of the holiday season on WOU’s campus with their 55th annual tree lighting and light parade! Enjoy Cocoa and Cider sponsored by Alumni relations next to the Sequoia tree while listening to guest speakers, celebrating essay contest winners, and watching the magnificent Tree lighting.

7:30 – 9 pm: Holiday Activities in the Werner University Center

Visit Santa in the Werner University Center! And while you’re there hang out and enjoy more holiday activities including holiday cookie decorating, buy Mexican Hot Chocolate and Pan Dulce from WOU’s own Kappa Delta Chi, and more!

7:30 – 9 pm: Walk through the “Julio Marin Aleman that audacity of identity + color” in Cannon Gallery in Campbell Hall

More information about the 56th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. 

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About Western Oregon University

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

Eugene OR,

One was person transported by ambulance following an early morning car accident on Eastbound Beltline at the Hwy 99 exit in Eugene Monday morning.  Eugene Spring field Fire responded to a reported rollover accident on Beltline near the Hwy 99 exit at 5:09 AM.  Crews arrived to find the vehicle on its roof and on fire.  The fire was quickly extinguished and one person was transported to Riverbend ER with non-life threatening injuries.  We urge caution on your morning commute as freezing temperatures make for slippery roads, especially over bridges and overpasses. 

Eugene OR,

Eugene Springfield Fire crews were alerted to a house fire on Lea Ave in Eugene’s Santa Clara neighborhood Sunday night.  At 6:10 PM, a caller from Beltline saw what they believed to be flames from a house on Lea Avenue and called 911. As fire apparatus were getting dispatched, a resident of the involved duplex on Lea noticed that smoke was filling the second floor and called 911 as well.

ESF crews arrived, identified the location of the fire on the second floor of the home, stretched a hose line to the duplex for fire extinguishment and search for additional occupants. The fire was quickly placed under control before it extended to the attic or unaffected side of the duplex. There were no injuries reported. ESF responded with 3 engines, 2 ladder trucks, 2 chiefs, an ambulance and EMS supervisor.  ESF was aided by Lane Fire Authority. ESF Deputy Fire Marshals are on the scene investigating the cause.