Every year Albany Police Department and Albany Fire Department respond to upwards of 80-100 reports of illegal fireworks and firework related concerns. These calls are important due to the inherent danger of all fireworks, but they also pull critical resources away from all other 911 calls for service in Albany.

Fireworks can cause serious bodily injury and pose a significant risk to property.

What can you do to stay safe and enjoy your holiday?

1. DO NOT BUY ILLEGAL FIREWORKS.

2. If your neighbor, family, or friend has purchased illegal fireworks request they DO
NOT use them.

3. Have a water hose ready for use and on.

4. Light all fireworks on a concrete or gravel surface with a 10' clearance away from
all vegetation and structures.

5. Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.

6. Use a water bucket for all used fireworks and only after they are safe to handle.

7. DO NOT allow children to light fireworks.

8. Be considerate of your neighbors, pets, others near you when considering the timing
of your fireworks.

UPDATE 06/23/2017

At approximately 1:20 am, Joshua Palmer was taken into custody by Douglas County Sheriff's Office deputies when he returned to the scene of the Arson.

He was arrested for Arson I without incident. Additional charges are expected.

The structure was a residence and is considered a total loss.

END UPDATE

ORIGINAL RELEASE

On Thursday, June 22, 2017, at approximately 12:00 pm, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office was notified of a structure fire involving suspicious circumstances in the 4000-block of Scholfield Road in Reedsport.

Deputies responded to the area and conducted an investigation. The investigation has determined the cause of the fire to be the result of Arson. Deputies consider 25 year-old Joshua Michael Palmer of Reedsport to be a suspect in the case and are currently seeking his whereabouts.

Anyone who believes they have information about the fire or Palmer's whereabouts is asked to contact the Douglas County Sheriff's Office at 541-440-4471 or by email at dcso.pio@co.douglas.or.us

The Sheriff's Office is being assisted by the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office and Oregon State Police.

No further information will be released tonight.


Attached Media Files: Joshua Michael Palmer

On Sunday, June 18, 2017, at 10:00 pm, Douglas County Search and Rescue received a distress message from two lost hikers. The two hikers had planned on hiking the North Umpqua trail from Maidu lake to Swift Water trail head, which they had done several times before and were familiar with the area. The pair began their hike in favorable conditions. As they gained elevation, they began to confront problems. The snow was still several feet deep. The two were unable to locate the trail any longer and became lost. They had planned ahead and were prepared with enough food for seven days, sleeping gear, and shelter. However, they did not have a map and compass.

The pair stayed overnight until rescue crews could be deployed in the morning.

On Monday, June 19, 2017, SAR located the subjects. Due to snow and weather conditions, crews were unable to lead the pair out on the shortest route. Instead, SAR members lead the subjects to safety by going to Miller Lake in Klamath County for extraction. The total mission lasted about 6 hours.

Search and Rescue would like to remind everyone of the following tips:

Your safety is our concern, but it is your responsibility. You are responsible for yourself, so be prepared. Here are some ways that you can be better prepared in the event something goes awry on your next outdoor adventure.

Be prepared with knowledge and gear. Become self-reliant by learning about the terrain, conditions, local weather and your equipment before you set out.

- Share your plans. Tell someone where you are going, where you plan to hike or recreate, when you will return and your plan for emergencies. Leave a map, if possible.

- Stay together. When you start as a group, stay as a group and end as a group. Pace your adventure to the slowest person.

- Know when to turn back. Weather changes come quickly in the mountains. Fatigue and unexpected conditions can also affect your adventure. Know your limitations and when to postpone the trip. The outdoors will be there another day.

- Plan for emergencies. Whether you are out for an hour or a multi-day trip, an injury, severe weather or wrong turn could become life threatening. Don't assume you will be rescued; know how to rescue yourself. Always carry equipment in case you have to spend the night. Have food, water, shelter, weather appropriate clothing and carry a first aid kit.

- Communication devices. A cell phone alone does not suffice as an emergency plan. A large portion of our remote areas do not have cell phone coverage. Whichever communication device you decide to carry, make sure you have sufficient power. An alternate power supply is a good idea. If you choose to recreate alone, personal locator beacons are a valuable tool and provide rescuers a better opportunity to find you.


Attached Media Files: SAR

On Friday, June 16, 2017, the Douglas County Sheriff's Deputies graduated from the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) Corrections academy. Their training included six weeks of classroom and skills training.

The graduates are:

Deputy Daniel Barden

Deputy Randy DeVore

Deputy Kacie Ogbin

Sheriff John Hanlin and members of his command staff attended the graduation ceremony on Friday.

"These deputies have demonstrated dedication to their new profession. They represented the Sheriff's Office and the community we serve well at the academy."

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) operates the Oregon Public Safety Academy which spans more than 235 acres in Salem. The Academy is nationally recognized for its innovative training programs and active stakeholder involvement. Eriks Gabliks serves as the Director, and Sheriff Jason Myers of the Marion County Sheriff's Office serves as the Chair of the Board. The department implements minimum standards established by the Board for the training and certification of more than 40,000 city, tribal, county and state law enforcement officers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, fire service personnel, telecommunicators, emergency medical dispatchers and private security providers.

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


Attached Media Files: From L to R: Deputy DeVore, Deputy Barden, Deputy Ogbin

Fire crews responded to a report of a house fire around 5:30 yesterday afternoon. They arrived to find a row of arborvitae bushes on fire next to a structure. The fire grew out of control quickly, due to hot, dry conditions, and ignited the exterior wall of the house. Fast acting neighbors with garden hoses controlled the fire from engulfing the whole house.

The Eugene Springfield Fire Marshal's Office and Eugene Police Department were called to investigate. The fire was started by two 12-year-old males playing with fire. They will be charged with Arson 1.

In this week's Oregon FBI Tech Tuesday segment: building a digital defense against social engineering.

So what is social engineering? Basically, it is a scammer who manipulates you into doing something you wouldn't ordinarily do. There is often a sense of urgency combined with fear.

Take this example: a scammer calls, texts or emails you pretending to be your bank. He tells you that your credit card is being used to purchase items overseas. If you can confirm your account number and password right away, he can get the card shut down, and you won't be liable for the losses. If you wait -- well, you will be on the hook for fraud.

Or -- on a happier note -- you receive a message that you have won a great prize. Maybe it is a car or a vacation. If you respond in the next 5 minutes, it is all yours as soon as you pay a small fee for taxes. If you don't respond right away, the scammer says, you will lose out.

Other than fear - social engineering masters have other tricks up their cyber sleeves, too. One such trick: cashing in on the trust you share with others. In some cases, they have gained access to a friend or relatives' email or social media accounts. The scammer -- pretending to be Grandma - just sent you link to a funny video, and she wants you to look at it right away! Click on it, though, and you have just downloaded malware onto your computer.

Fraudsters can also use your innate goodness against you. They take the disaster or tragedy of the day and guilt you into giving money to what you think is a legitimate charity. By spoofing the look of a real non-profit with a bogus link, your money never makes it to the true victims.

So, how do you build that digital defense against social engineering?

The number one thing you can do is to "think before you click." Don't let the fear get in the way of you making a rational decision.

Know that no bank, business or law enforcement agency is ever going to ask you for your account numbers, passwords or payments over the phone. If you get a message asking you for that information, end the conversation.

Use a publicly available resource to look up a legitimate phone number or email address for the business or agency that purportedly contacted you. You should call them to confirm what is or isn't going on.

Report your suspicious contacts to the FBI. You can file an online report at the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or call your FBI local office.


Attached Media Files: Tech Tuesday - Social Engineering - SPANISH written - June 20, 2017 , Tech Tuesday - Social Engineering - SPANISH audio , Tech Tuesday - Social Engineering - ENGLISH audio , Tech Tuesday - Social Engineering - RUSSIAN written - June 20, 2017 , Tech Tuesday - Social Engineering - RUSSIAN audio - June 20, 2017

TIP OF THE WEEK

Date: June 26, 2017 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Sheriff Curtis L. Landers
(541) 265-0652
clanders@co.lincoln.or.us

FIREWORKS SAFETY

The Fourth of July is quickly approaching which means fireworks and celebration. Here are some important tips to remember to ensure a safe holiday celebration.

It is extremely important to know the difference between a legal consumer firework and a dangerous explosive device. Illegal items in Oregon include firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, bombs, rockets, wheels, colored fires, fountains, mines, serpents or any other article of similar construction or any article containing any explosive or inflammable compound.

Any tablets or other device containing any explosive substances or inflammable compound are also not legal in Oregon without a permit. Items such as M-80s, M-100s and blockbusters are not fireworks, they are federally banned explosives. They can cause serious injury or even death. Stay away from anything that isn't clearly labeled with the name of the item, the manufacturer's name and instructions for proper use.

All fireworks are prohibited in all state parks and on ocean beaches.

Possession of illegal fireworks in Oregon is a Class B Misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $10,000 and/or six months in jail. If you are aware of anyone selling such devices, contact your local law enforcement agency.

Fireworks are not toys. NEVER give fireworks to young children. Close, adult supervision of all fireworks activities is mandatory. Even sparklers can be unsafe if used improperly.

Read and follow all warnings and instructions on fireworks. Be sure that people maintain a safe distance from where fireworks are ignited. Never light and throw any fireworks. Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from buildings, dry leaves, and flammable materials. Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned. Keep a bucket of water handy in case of a malfunction or fire.

Please have a safe Fourth of July.

For more information and tips, visit our web site at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and Like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff's Office -- Oregon.

###
Submitted by:
Kathy Manning, Administrative Assistant
kmanning@co.lincoln.or.us
Ph: 541-265-0652


Attached Media Files: 2017-06/5490/105516/062617-Fireworks_Safety.pdf

Members of the Lincoln County Amateur Radio Club will be participating in the national Amateur Radio Field Day exercise (24 hour event), Saturday, June 24, 2017 at the Port of Toledo Waterfront Park next to the Toledo Post Office. Since 1933, ham radio operators across North America have established temporary ham radio stations in public locations during Field Day to showcase the science and skill of Amateur Radio. This event is open to the public and all are encouraged to attend.

For over 100 years, Amateur Radio - sometimes called ham radio- has allowed people from all walks of life to experiment with electronics and communications techniques, as well as provide a free public service to their communities during a disaster, all without needing a cell phone or the Internet. Field Day demonstrates ham radio's ability to work reliably under any conditions from almost any location and create an independent communications network. Over 35,000 people from thousands of locations of locations participated in Field Day in 2016.

"With today's technology it is easy for us to use a computer or smartphone, connect to the internet and communicate, with no knowledge of how the device function or connect to each other," said Jenny Demaris, County Emergency Manager. "However, if local communication systems fail, have an interruption of service or you're out of range of a cell tower, you have no way to communicate. Ham radio functions completely independent of the internet or cell phone infrastructure, can interface with tablets or smartphones, and can be set up almost anywhere in minutes. That's the beauty of Amateur Radio during a communication outage."

"Our local Amateur Radio Operators practice year round to be ready when we need them; Annual Field Day is a great way to see them in action. Our upcoming local Eclipse event is another way they are preparing to help our communities. If our local communities experience a disruption of cellular service they will be standing by to assist local government where needed to bridge the gap between agencies," Demaris added.

"Hams can literally throw a wire in a tree for an antenna, connect it to a battery-powered transmitter and communicate halfway around the world," Daron Wilson, Lincoln County Sheriff's Office Volunteer Auxiliary Communication Services Chief added. "Amateur Radio Operators (HAMS) do this by using a layer of Earth's atmosphere as a sort of mirror for radio waves. In today's electronic do-it-yourself (DIY) environment, ham radio remains one of the best ways for people to learn about electronics, physics, meteorology, and numerous other scientific disciplines, and is a huge asset to any community during disasters if the standard communication infrastructure goes down."

Anyone may become a licensed Amateur Radio operator. There are over 725,000 licensed hams in the United States, as young as 5 and as old as 100. And with clubs such as the Lincoln County Amateur Radio Club, it's easy for anybody to get involved right here in Lincoln County. Lincoln County Sheriff's Office also sponsors the Auxiliary Communications Service volunteer group of amateur radio operators specifically to support local government emergency response -- contact Jenny Demaris for more information or to volunteer.

For more information:
Field Day - visit Lincoln County Amateur Radio Club's web site at www.n7oy.org/ or visit www.arrl.org/what-is-ham-radio.

Respectfully submitted,

Virginia "Jenny" Demaris
Emergency Manager
Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Emergency Management
225 W Olive Street, Suite 103
Newport, Oregon 97365
vdemaris@co.lincoln.or.us
(541) 265-4199 Office


Attached Media Files: Media Release - Annual Field Day June 24th

Lincoln County Solar Eclipse Website - http://www.co.lincoln.or.us/emergencymanagement/page/total-solar-eclipse-august-21-2017

Lincoln County continues its planning activities for the August Total Solar Eclipse which takes place on Monday, August 21, 2017. The path of totality extends between Waldport and Pacific City beginning at 9 a.m. and ending at 10:30 a.m.. Anticipated community impact due to increased traffic and congestion is expected to begin Thursday, August 17, 2017 through Tuesday, August 22, 2017.

In anticipation of the event, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Board of Commissioners and Health and Human Services have created a "Lincoln County Eclipse Information Guide."

The guide is intended to provide a public safety and preparedness resource for residents, visitors, business and property owners specific to Lincoln County. Lincoln County's Public Information Officer, Casey Miller, emphasized, "We want the eclipse to be a safe, enjoyable and educational event. While there is a lot of great information online, we wanted to provide our community with valued, timely and essential information that is unique to the Lincoln County experience".

Lincoln County Sheriff's Office - Emergency Management continues its coordination efforts with local jurisdictions and emergency responders. A recent exercise convened local fire, law enforcement, dispatch, hospitals, public health, state forestry, National Weather Service and the American Red Cross to simulate response to a wildfire scenario during the eclipse weekend. County Emergency Manager, Jenny Demaris commented, "We designed our annual wildfire tabletop exercise to occur hypothetically during the eclipse weekend using the actual 2016 Depoe Bay 2500 Road Fire as our scenario but changed the conditions warranting an evacuation of surrounding communities. In terms of realistic preparation this is about as good as it gets. In fact, last year's 2500 Road Fire occurred on the same weekend in August as the eclipse event this year."

The recent tabletop is one of four exercises we have planned prior to the eclipse event: wildland fire, hazardous materials transportation accident, distant tsunami and public health outbreak. Demaris continued, "Each of these exercises is an effort to bring together public safety and other partners to practice coordinated responses with the eclipse in mind. Lincoln County public safety, community partners, volunteer and government agencies are to be commended for their time and effort designated for the preparation and eventual response to the eclipse event."

In addition to reviewing the eclipse guide, the community is encouraged to sign-up or update their information in the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office emergency notification system, Lincoln Alerts. A keyword has been created specifically for the eclipse event, "LINC4ECLIPSE". Any individual with text feature on their mobile phone can sign up to receive pre-event information and most importantly, response information during the anticipated impact days. The County website will also be kept up to date with changing information and shared with the local newspaper and radio stations to help get the word out.

Lincoln County Eclipse Information Guide (excerpt):
A Message from your Elected Officials:

If you were to stay in one place all your life, the chances of seeing a total solar eclipse would be quite slim. This fact is one aspect of why August 21st, 2017, will be a very special day in the history of Lincoln County. First contact will happen here, in our county. The eclipse chasers are coming and they want to be the first people to experience totality in the continental U.S.

As residents, we are fortunate to know why visitors from all walks of life are drawn to our beautiful community, especially in the summer. Lincoln County is a spectacular place. In all probability, if the weather cooperates, we will all be in for a special treat when sun's shadow crosses our state.

Increased tourism is part of our seasonal experience. It is our opportunity every year to experience a much needed boost in the economy. Locals are well aware that during peak summer months, going to our favorite restaurants may mean longer waits; and traveling throughout our county simply takes more time.

We encourage everyone to take a few moments to review the county's Eclipse Information Guide. You will discover best practices that should be familiar. These tips for health and safety, we hope, have become more commonplace in our dialogue with friends and family. The principles that apply to emergency preparation are much the same as they apply to mass gatherings, tsunamis, and other natural hazards.

Preparation is about planning for the known and unknown. The county has worked with our local cities, tribe, public safety and our state and federal partners to assess our community needs during the impact days and develop staffing and resource plans to include contingency plans. In particular, public safety and partners will have exercised the following scenarios prior to the eclipse event: a wildland fire with community evacuation, a hazardous material transportation accident with multiple critical injuries, a distant tsunami from the Gulf of Alaska, and a public health outbreak response.

The eclipse represents both increased opportunity and challenges. As thousands of additional individuals and families arrive for a once in a lifetime celestial event, we encourage residents & visitors alike to be ready; to be patient; to be safe; and most of all, to enjoy this unique experience at the coast!

During the days leading up to and during the eclipse event, we encourage you to read our local newspapers and listen to our local public radio stations as they, too, are committed to bringing you preparedness information and current information during the eclipse event. In addition to local news media, residents, visitors and businesses can refresh their information or sign-up for our Lincoln County emergency notification system, Lincoln Alerts. We specifically have a text keyword for the eclipse event "LINC4ELCIPSE" and "LINC4ROADS" that we will use to keep our community up to date on current situations as well as our county website.

Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and Lincoln County Sheriff

Respectfully submitted,

Virginia "Jenny" Demaris
Emergency Manager
Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Emergency Management
225 W. Olive St.
Newport, Oregon 97365
vdemaris@co.lincoln.or.us
(541) 265-4199 Office


For public information inquiries:

Casey Miller
Public Information Officer
Lincoln County Board of Commissioners
225 West Olive Street, Ste. #110
Newport, OR 97365
clmiller@co.lincoln.or.us
(541) 265-0211 Office


Attached Media Files: Media Release - Lincoln County Announces Eclipse Info Guide , Lincoln Co, OR Eclipse Info Guide , Media Release - Lincoln County Announces Eclipse Info Guide

Linn County Sheriff's Office Patrol Commander Kevin Guilford has recently completed one of the toughest challenges available for local law enforcement professionals. Cpt. Guilford attended a ten week session from April through June, at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

Cpt. Guilford and a total of two hundred and twenty-seven other law enforcement professionals attended the 268th Session of the National Academy, which consisted of men and women from 47 state agencies, law enforcement organizations from 24 international countries, five military organizations, and seven federal civilian organizations.

There is a highly competitive process that law enforcement must go through before being selected for this honor. This process included a nomination by Sheriff Riley; interviews of Cpt. Guilford and co-workers to determine leadership skills and abilities; a background check; a determination of physical fitness; and the support of former National Academy graduates within the candidate's organization.

The FBI National Academy is internationally known for its academic excellence, which offers 10 weeks of advanced communications, leadership, and fitness training for selected individuals having proven records as professionals within their agencies. On average, FBI National Academy attendees have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions. A total of 50,141 graduates now represent the alumni of the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935.

Cpt. Guilford has more than 23 years of law enforcement experience, starting as a reserve deputy with the Linn County Sheriff's Office in 1994. Cpt. Guilford was hired for full time employment in 1995 as a resident deputy, working the Mill City area. He has since served his community as a D.A.R.E. officer, marine deputy, defensive tactics instructor, Dive Team member, reserve coordinator, Patrol Sergeant and Patrol First Sergeant.

"We are very proud of Cpt. Guilford's accomplishments in the FBI National Academy, which is a significant milestone in his career," said Sheriff Bruce Riley. The citizens of Linn County will benefit greatly from Cpt. Guilford's National Academy experience, increasing the quality of services and professionalism we provide to all of Linn County.


Attached Media Files: 2017-06/2993/105442/20170620_144757.jpg

This evening deputies learned that the man taken to Salem Hospital after his boat capsized has died. Chester Correll, age 72, of Corvallis was fishing with family earlier today when his boat capsized throwing Mr. Correll and his family into the water.

The Sheriff's Office would like to send their thoughts to the Correll family during this very difficult time. This is the Sheriff's Office third drowning since the weather has begun to warm and the second drowning this week. Sadly the Sheriff's Office believes all of these tragic deaths could have been prevented had life jackets been worn. With the warm weekend weather coming, the Sheriff's Office is asking all of our residents and visitors to please use caution in open water, know your swimming ability and always wear a life jacket.




Today, at 12:30 p.m., deputies with the Marion County Sheriff's Office were called to the Hoover arm of Detroit Lake after a boat was reported to have capsized. When rescuers arrived they learned that 3 boaters two men and one woman were fishing in their 15' aluminum boat when one occupant stood up and the boat partially capsized.

All 3 occupants of the boat were thrown into the water. Nearby boaters saw the commotion and came to the aide of the fisherman. When the boat arrived two of the 3 occupants exited the water and the third was pulled from the water. Four nearby off duty firefighters with the Stayton, Gaston and Sublimity Fire Departments saw the rescue and came to assist. When they arrived the fireman performed CPR on the man until he could be Life Flighted to the Salem Hospital where he remains in critical condition.

At the time of the incident none of the occupants were wearing life preservers. The Sheriff's Office is not prepared at this time to release any names associated to the boating accident.


Attached Media Files: 2017-06/1294/105477/imagejpeg_0_1498084345068.jpg

Thursday, June 22nd, beginning at 7:30 a.m., law enforcement officials from across the Willamette Valley will be joining forces to detect and combat dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, following too close and distracted driving. The Marion County Sheriff's Office, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, Washington County Sheriff's Office and the Oregon State Police will be out working high volume traffic areas from Portland down to north Marion County.

Deputies with the Marion County Sheriff's Office will be working overtime to patrol the areas of River Road North, French Prairie Road NE, Highway 219, Ehlen Road NE, Highway 99 and Interstate 5. Did you know that according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2014 some 9,262 people died in speed related crashes? That is why Deputies and Troopers will be out in force to educate drivers and enforce traffic laws to help provide a safe travel experience to the residents and visitors of the Willamette Valley. Traffic operations like these are made possible by grants from the Oregon Department of Transportation.


Attached Media Files: 2017-06/1294/105462/IMG_20151009_072640933_HDR.jpg

This Saturday, around 5:00 p.m., deputies with the Marion County Sheriff's Office were called to the Opal Creek Wilderness after a hiker experienced a medical emergency in the Jawbone Flats area. Trace Downen, 27, of Portland was hiking with his three brothers when he became ill.

Some 19 Rescuers hiked the four miles in to Mr. Downen and carried him back out to the trail head. Mr. Downen was flown to the Salem Airport by the Army Air National Guard and transported by ambulance to the Salem Hospital. Mr. Downen was released from the hospital Sunday and is said to be at home recovering.

The Sheriff's Office would like to thank the Marion County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue Team, Linn County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue Team, the Stayton Fire Department, Lyons Fire Department, Gates Fire Department and the Oregon Air National Guard.

No images of the rescue are available. The brother of Mr. Downing is willing to speak with media, his contact information can be obtained by emailing cbaldridge@co.marion.or.us

Deputies have identified yesterday's drowning victim as Kendall Alexander, age 13, of Tigrad. Kendall was an eighth grade student at Fowler Middle School. Kendall was swimming with friends when he drowned after being swept down river. Adults swimming with Kendall attempted to reach him but were unsuccessful.

Yesterday's events are tragic and our thoughts are with the Alexander family. Kendall's drowning is the second death since our weather has begun to warm. Areas like the North Fork still have very high, swift and cold water. The Sheriff's Office recommends that any person recreating in open water should be wearing a life vest.

Kendall's family does not wish to release his photograph and they do not want to be contacted by media.




At 6:15 p.m., the body of the swimmer who drowned early today was recovered by on scene rescue personnel prior to the arrival of the dive team. The Sheriff's Office thoughts are with the family of the victim during this very difficult time. The Sheriff's Office is still not prepared to share the victim's identity or gender, that information will be provided sometime Monday.



Around 4:15 p.m., deputies with the Marion County Sheriff's Office and fire personnel were called to the Elkhorn Valley Camp Ground after a 13 year old swimmer went missing. The teen was swimming with friends when they went underwater and did not resurface.

Multiple rescuers are currently on scene assisting the swimmers friends who have become stranded on the opposite bank of the river. A dive team with the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office has been requested and is responding to attempt to recover the drowned teen.

There are no further details available at this time. The Sheriff's Office is not currently releasing the name or gender of the missing swimmer until their family can be located and notified. The Sheriff's Office does not anticipate any further release until sometime Monday. Due to the remote nature of this incident there are no images available for this release.

In January of 2015 the Newport Police Officers began a sexual assault investigation involving a Special Education Assistant at the Newport High School, and a female student. During the investigation it was learned that Special Education Assistant Stewart Douglas Curry, age 61 of Toledo, was observed exiting a locked storage closet at the school with a 14-year old female student.

The investigation remained open due to the limited information gathered from the original report. In May 2017, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office investigated Curry for an unrelated sexual assault case involving another minor child. The Newport Police Department, and the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, combined their investigative efforts, and identified additional evidence related to the 2015 investigation. On June 15, 2017, investigators obtained an Indictment Warrant for the arrest of Curry on criminal charges of Rape in the First Degree, Sodomy in the First Degree, and Sex Abuse in the First Degree.

On June 20, 2017, the Newport Police Department, Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, US Marshals, and the Oregon State Police SWAT took Curry into custody, without incident, at his residence on Yasek Loop in Toledo.

Curry is being held at the Lincoln County Jail on the above listed charges. His bail was set at $1,500,000. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Det. Lance Cummings, 541-574-3348.

The Newport Police Tip Line is available at 541-574-5455 or Text-a-Tip at 541-270-1856


Attached Media Files: 2017-06/5016/105497/Curry.jpg

The Office of State Fire Marshal, Oregon fire service, Keep Oregon Green, the Pacific Northwest Wildfire Coordination Group, natural resource agencies, Oregon fireworks wholesalers, and safety experts encourage Oregonians to "Keep it Legal and Keep it Safe" when using fireworks. The 2017 Oregon fireworks sales season opens Friday, June 23 and runs through Thursday, July 6. The OSFM and their partners want everyone to know what fireworks are legal in Oregon, where they are permitted, and the important steps to take for fireworks safety.

"I want to remind all Oregonians that consumer legal fireworks can only be purchased from Oregon permitted fireworks retailers and stands," says State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. "And, regulations limit where those fireworks may be used.

July 4th holiday forest visitors are advised to leave all fireworks at home. The use of fireworks is prohibited on all national forestland, and most other public lands. "Fireworks compound the threat to already dry forests," states Keep Oregon Green President Kristin Babbs. "Enjoy fireworks where they belong: on the pavement- safely away from houses, vehicles, and flammable vegetation."

Oregon law prohibits possession, use, or sale of any firework that flies into the air, explodes, or travels more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground, without a permit issued by the OSFM. Fireworks commonly called bottle rockets, Roman Candles, and firecrackers are illegal in Oregon, without a permit.

There were 192 reported fireworks-related fires in Oregon during 2016, resulting in more than $519,000 in property damage. Over the past five years, from 2012 through 2016, there were 944 reported fireworks-related fires in Oregon resulting in one death and more than $2.1 million in property damage.

Officials may seize illegal fireworks and fine offenders up to $500 per violation. Those who misuse fireworks or allow fireworks to cause damage are liable and may be required to pay fire suppression costs or other damage. Parents are also liable for fireworks damage caused by their children.

"All Oregonians share the responsibility to use only consumer legal fireworks and use them carefully," adds Walker. And we encourage you to be aware and considerate of neighbors and their pets, before deciding on when and where you choose to light fireworks."

The OSFM encourages everyone to use the four B's of safe fireworks use:
Be Prepared before lighting fireworks: keep water available by using a garden hose or bucket.
Be Safe when lighting fireworks: keep children and pets away from fireworks.
Be Responsible after lighting fireworks: never relight a dud. Wait 15 to 20 minutes then soak it in a bucket of water before disposal.
Be Aware: use only legal fireworks and use them only in legal places.

The four B's of fireworks safety brochure is available here:
http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Licensing_permits/fireworks/4BesFireworks.pdf.
Tips in Spanish are also available at: http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Licensing_permits/fireworks/Fireworks_4Bs_Spanish.pdf.

WHEN: Friday, June 23, 2017 at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue Training Center
12400 SW Tonquin Road, Sherwood, Oregon

WHO: The Office of State Fire Marshal, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, U.S. Bureau of Land Management, Oregon Department of Forestry, Clackamas Fire District #1, Portland Fire & Rescue, Oregon Department of Veteran Affairs, Multnomah county animal services, the Oregon Humane Society, and Oregon fireworks wholesalers will provide information on legal fireworks in Oregon, where fireworks may be used, education, and safety and enforcement efforts. Live fireworks demonstrations are scheduled.

WHAT: Keep it legal, keep it safe
Legal fireworks in legal places
Live demonstration -- Safer use of fireworks

June 23 opens the season for fireworks sales in Oregon. Legal fireworks may be purchased only from Oregon permitted fireworks retailers and stands. The Office of State Fire Marshal has issued more than 709 retail fireworks permits, and 211 display permits. Oregon law prohibits possession, use, or sale of any firework that flies into the air, explodes, or travels more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground, without a permit issued by the OSFM. Fireworks commonly called bottle rockets, Roman Candles, and firecrackers are illegal in Oregon, without a permit.

All fireworks are prohibited on all Oregon beaches, in parks, and campgrounds.

Illegal fireworks can be expensive. Under Oregon law, illegal fireworks may be confiscated and offenders fined up to $500 per violation for possession of illegal fireworks and endangering life and property. Offenders may also be arrested. Any fireworks causing damage, or misuse of fireworks carries a liability for the offender, who may be required to pay for resulting fire or other damage. Parents are liable for fireworks-caused damage by their children. Costs may include assessed fines as well as the cost of suppressing fireworks-caused fires.

WHEN: Friday, June 23, 2017 at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue Training Center
12400 SW Tonquin Road, Sherwood, Oregon

WHO: The Office of State Fire Marshal, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, U.S. Bureau of Land Management, Oregon Department of Forestry, Clackamas Fire District #1, Portland Fire & Rescue, Oregon Department of Veteran Affairs, Multnomah county animal services, the Oregon Humane Society, and Oregon fireworks wholesalers will provide information on legal fireworks in Oregon, where fireworks may be used, education, and safety and enforcement efforts. Live fireworks demonstrations are scheduled.

WHAT: Keep it legal, keep it safe
Legal fireworks in legal places
Live demonstration -- Safer use of fireworks

June 23 opens the season for fireworks sales in Oregon. Legal fireworks may be purchased only from Oregon permitted fireworks retailers and stands. To date the Office of State Fire Marshal has issued 722 retail fireworks permits, and 138 display permits. Oregon law forbids possession, use, or sale of fireworks that fly, explode, or travel more than six feet on the ground or 12 inches in the air, without a permit issued by the OSFM. Bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers are ILLEGAL in Oregon.

All fireworks are prohibited on all Oregon beaches, in parks, and campgrounds.

Illegal fireworks can be expensive. Under Oregon law, illegal fireworks may be confiscated and offenders fined up to $500 per violation for possession of illegal fireworks and endangering life and property. Offenders may also be arrested. Any fireworks causing damage, or misuse of fireworks carries a liability for the offender, who may be required to pay for resulting fire or other damage. Parents are liable for fireworks-caused damage by their children. Costs may include assessed fines as well as the cost of suppressing fireworks-caused fires.

On June 23, 2017, Oregon State Police troopers and detectives arrested former Oregon State Police Evidence Technician Mark Matlick, age 57 of Klamath Falls. Matlick was employed with the Oregon State Police from 2007 through 2015 at the Klamath Falls Area Command.

In October of 2016, command staff from the Klamath Falls Oregon State Police Area Command became aware evidence had been unlawfully removed from the evidence lockers located in Klamath Falls and Lakeview. A lengthy investigation was conducted by Oregon State Police detectives, OSP support staff, and investigators from the Oregon Department of Justice. The investigation was conducted in consultation with Klamath County and Lake County District Attorney's Offices.

The investigation regarding the Klamath Falls evidence locker revealed the following: between the dates of November 13, 2007, and June 30, 2015, Mark Matlick, while acting in the capacity of the evidence technician for the Oregon State Police stole over $10,000 of money from the OSP evidence locker. Additionally, Matlick forged written instruments and tampered with the OSP evidence database (public records) to facilitate his thefts.

Matlick was lodged on the following charges in Klamath County: One count of Aggravated Theft, 29 counts of Computer Crime, 19 counts of Tampering with Public Records, two counts of Forgery in the Second Degree, 19 counts of Official Misconduct in the First Degree, one count of Theft in the First Degree and four counts of Theft in Second Degree.

The investigation in Lake County is on-going.

In the last couple of years, the Oregon State Police have made efforts to improve the integrity and security of evidence maintained under the control of the Oregon State Police Evidence Program. In regards to currency, OSP no longer holds any more than $100.00 in evidence at any given point in time. When the total combined amount of currency rises above $100.00, the currency is secured in a bank account. Additionally, annual inventories are conducted in all evidence lockers which is a practice consistent with the national standard and the destruction policy has been improved with additional layers of oversight.

Questions should be directed to the Klamath County District Attorney, Eve Costello.


###end###

The deceased driver of the Chevy Suburban was identified as 68 year old Dallas Oregon resident Michael Dennis Roach. The female passenger was identified as Tara Rae Redfern. Redfern was treated for non-lifethreatening injuries. There is no update to the condition of the involved children.

End Release


Previous ReleaseJust prior to 5 p.m. Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 26 near milepost 11. (Between Madras and Prineville) The initial investigation revealed a single motor vehicle was traveling westbound and for unknown reasons, traveled off the roadway and struck a tree on the south ditch easement. An eastbound motorist arrived immediately after the crash and discovered three minor children in the vehicle along with a male driver and female passenger. The motorist was able to extricate the children and female passenger. The vehicle caught fire and was fully engulfed prior to the Jefferson County Fire District's arrival. The unidentified male driver died at the scene as a result of injuries. The female passenger was transported via air ambulance to a Bend area hospital for unknown injuries. The three children were transported via ground ambulance to a Madras hospital for minor injuries.

The Bureau of Land Management has eight fire crews at the scene and is currently working to contain the grass fire. The fire is not expected to exceed the four acre fire boundary established.

Further information will be released as it becomes available. OSP was assisted on-scene by Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Jefferson County Fire District, Jefferson County EMS, Oregon Department of Transportation and the Jefferson County Medical Examiner.


Attached Media Files: 2017-06/1002/105486/27.jpg

Just after 1:30 pm, Troopers from the Bend Area Command responded to a report of a two vehicle crash on Highway 97 near Northwest Galloway Avenue. (North of Redmond) The preliminary investigation revealed that a light blue 2008 Honda Pilot SUV, operated by 26 year old Madras resident, Amber Paplia, was traveling northbound on Highway 97. A red 2015 Toyota Camry was traveling southbound at this location and had four occupants. The driver was identified as 78 year old Gaston resident, Dennis French. The other occupants in the Toyota were identified as 76 year old Gaston resident, Marjorie French, 49 year old Diane Acevedo and 11 year old minor child, both from San Bruno California.

The Honda SUV driven by Paplia crossed over into the oncoming southbound lanes and French, driving the Toyota, was unable to avoid impact resulting in a head-on crash. Marjorie French, the front passenger of the Toyota, was pronounced deceased at the scene as a result of the crash. Dennis French and Paplia were both transported to the Redmond area hospital for serious injuries and both Acevedo and her minor child were transported to a Bend area hospital for non-lifethreatening injuries. Fatigue is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.

OSP was assisted on scene by the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, the Redmond Police Department, Redmond Fire and Rescue, the Oregon Department of Transportation and the Deschutes County Medical Examiner.


Attached Media Files: 2017-06/1002/105483/97_pic.jpg

On February 23rd, 2017 the members of the Oregon State Police Major Crimes Section Central Point, were called out to investigate an assault of a victim identified as, Christopher Applegate (44). Applegate was located by local law enforcement and found to have been stabbed and shot somewhere along Interstate 5 in the Central Point, OR area. Applegate was transported and treated for his injuries sustained during the attack.



The subsequent investigation led to the arrest of Aaron D Eaton (40) on 6/2/2017.



The follow up investigation has also led to the arrest of Steven A Martin, age 27, of Medford on 6/20/17.



Both Eaton and Martin were indicted by a Jackson County grand jury for; Attempted Murder, Assault in the 1st Degree, Assault in the 2nd Degree, Kidnapping II, Robbery II, Unlawful Possession of a firearm (felon), Unlawful use of a Weapon and Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.



Both Eaton and Martin are lodged in the Jackson County Jail.


End

Update:

On June 2, 2017, Aaron Dale EATON, age 40, of Phoenix, was arrested and lodged at the Jackson County Jail on the following charges:

Attempted Murder, Kidnapping 2, Robbery I, Assault 1, Assault 2, Unlawful use of a Weapon, Felon in possession of a firearm, Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

End of Update

Previously Released:

The victim of the assault has been identified as 43 year old CHRISTOPHER APPLEGATE from the Central Point area and remains in the hospital. No further information is available at this time.

The investigative team is still attempting to locate the person(s) of interest from yesterday. If anyone has any information they are asked to call the Oregon State Police dispatch center at 541-664-4600.


End of Update

Previously Released:

In the early morning hours on February 23, 2017, the Oregon State Police responded to a call of a male on Interstate 5 near milepost 34 in Jackson County. The subject was eventually located, had injuries and was transported to Rogue Regional Medical Center for treatment. There are additional law enforcement personnel in the area of Gold Hill attempting to locate possible suspect(s).

If anyone has any information regarding this incident they are asked to call the Oregon State Police Dispatch Center at 541-664-4600.

UPDATE


On Friday, June 2, Detectives from the Oregon State Police, acting as members of the Douglas County Major Crimes Team, added the following charges to Troy Russell PHELPS, 34 years old from Myrtle Creek, who was already in custody at the Douglas County Jail on unrelated probation violations. The additional charges include: Murder, Kidnapping 1st Degree, Menacing, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Coercion and Arson 2nd Degree.

These crimes were allegedly committed on May 30th and 31st in Douglas County at a location along the South Umpqua River resulting in the death of Brandon MICHAEL, 26 years old. Michael was shot several times with a small caliber handgun. The other victims have been identified as 23 year old, Kayla VIOL and her 10 month old baby, MICHAEL was the father. Early investigation revealed that VIOL contacted authorities after she and her baby had been abducted by PHELPS after MICHAEL was killed. PHELPS transported VIOL and her child to a residence in Myrtle Creek. VIOL was able to leave that residence and contacted the authorities from a neighboring residence. VIOL and her child suffered no physical injuries. MICHAEL's body was recovered and an autopsy performed on June 1st, confirms MICHAEL was killed by a small caliber handgun.

VIOL and MICHAEL had recently moved to Douglas County from the LaPine area.


Previous Release

On the morning on May 31, 2017 a frantic female reported to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office that her boyfriend had been shot near the Lawson Bar area of southern Douglas County.

Multiple Law Enforcement Agencies responded to the Lawson Bar area and completed an extensive search of the area. During the search an adult male was found deceased from apparent gunshot wounds.

The Douglas County Major Crimes Team was activated and a person of interest was identified as, TROY PHELPS, age 34, from Myrtle Creek. Detectives located PHELPS and lodged him at the Douglas County Jail on an unrelated charge of Probation Violation. Law Enforcement believes that there is no further threat to public safety regarding this incident.

The Oregon State Police is the lead agency and is being assisted by the Douglas County Major Crimes Team. Member agencies involved with the Douglas County Major Crimes Team are: Roseburg Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Douglas County District Attorney's Office and the Oregon State Police.

This is still an active investigation and no further information is expected to be released tonight.

No further information for release.
###


Attached Media Files: Facebook Photo , DCSO Photo

The operator of the motorcycle has been identified as 69 year old Michael A. MILLETTE, from Grants Pass. The passenger on the motorcycle was Micheal's wife 66 year old, Virginia J. MILLETTE, who is in critical condition at a local hospital.

End Release


Previous Release
On June 20, 2017 at approximately 4:00PM, the Oregon State Police responded to a motorcycle crash on Highway 140 near milepost 18, which is 18 miles east of White City, in Jackson County.

The preliminary investigation revealed a 2003 Harley Davidson motorcycle was eastbound on Highway 140 and the operator failed to recognize that traffic had slowed/stopped for a turning vehicle. The operator laid the motorcycle down and crossed the westbound lane, striking the guardrail. The operator was pronounced deceased at the scene and the female passenger was transported to Rogue Regional Medical Center with serious injuries.

The Oregon State Police was assisted by Lake Creek Fire Department, Mercy Flights, Jackson County Sheriff's office and the Oregon Department of Transportation. No further information is available at this time.


Attached Media Files: 2017-06/1002/105451/Hwy_140_resized.jpg

Oregon State Police (OSP) is asking for the public's help to find two Oregon Youth Authority youths that escaped from 58231 HWY 244, La Grande, Camp Riverbend Youth Transitional Facility, at around 7:50 p.m., June 20, 2017.

Escapee #1: Brittain MCAULIFFE, age 18, of Central Point, is described as a white male, 5'10", 220 pounds, stocky build, tattoos on both forearms, one described as "Native Pride". His hair is short on the sides and the top is approximately six inches long with ponytail. He wears glasses and was wearing a white tank top, black shorts with a red stripe on the sides, and black and red mid top shoes.

Escapee #2: Micah WEST, age 18, of Salem, is described as a white male 5'11" 155 pounds, multiple tattoos, one is described as a derringer pistol on one arm. One is an eagle tattoo on his chest and a cross tattoo on left forearm. West is bald and was wearing a dark blue hoodie and blue jeans.

Anyone who identifies them is asked to not approach, use caution and immediately contact law enforcement.

Anyone with information regarding the location of MCAULIFFE and or WEST is asked to call OSP Southern Command Center dispatch at 541-664-4600 or 9-1-1. Refer to OSP case number SP17211022.

OSP is being assisted by Union County Sheriff's Office and the Oregon Youth Authority.


Attached Media Files: Photo2 , Photo1

On June 17, 2017 at approximately 9:00 p.m., Oregon State Troopers and emergency workers responded to a three-vehicle serious injury crash on Highway (Hwy) 20 near milepost (MP) 76 (just east of the Hwy 20/126 junction).

Preliminary investigation revealed vehicle #1, 2016 Kia Optima, was travelling eastbound at a high rate of speed. The driver of vehicle #1 was unable to control the vehicle and crossed into the westbound lane. Vehicle #2, 2016 Kia Sorento, was traveling westbound. The driver of vehicle #2 was able to avoid the collision by driving the vehicle into a ditch. Vehicle #1 then crashed, almost head-on, into westbound vehicle #3 (a 2014 Ford Focus).

Two passengers of vehicle #1 and the driver of vehicle #3 were air transported to St. Charles in Bend in serious condition. The driver and passenger of vehicle #2 were not injured.

On June 18, 2017, Salvador Marcelo Blas turned himself into the Bend Oregon State Police Office as the driver of vehicle #1. Salvador Marcelo Blas was lodged in Linn County. Charges have been filed accusing him of Assault III (x3), Reckless Driving and Fail to Perform Duties of a Driver.

The highway was partially closed until approximately 4:00 a.m. All indications show seatbelts were in use by occupants.


Attached Media Files: 2017-06/1002/105416/output.jpg , 2017-06/1002/105416/20170617_225503.jpg , 2017-06/1002/105416/404149.jpg

On June 18, 2018, at approximately 1:45 AM, Oregon State Police and additional emergency workers responded to a vehicle fire on Highway 84 near milepost 73 (Wasco County). The vehicle fire resulted in the death of the driver of the vehicle.

Preliminary investigation indicates Jason M. Degeus (age 25 from The Dallas) was traveling eastbound on Highway 84. The vehicle veered off the right shoulder, struck a highway sign, and was shortly engulfed in fire. Emergency workers put out the fire and found Degeus, the only occupant of the vehicle, deceased as a result.

No photos are available at this time.

On June 17, 2017 at 9:02 p.m., OSP Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a single vehicle fatality crash, on highway 78 near milepost 64 (Malheur County).

Preliminary investigation revealed a 2004 Ford F250 Pickup, operated by Braden Glen FILLMORE, age 20, of Bend, was eastbound when, for unknown reasons, drifted off the right shoulder of the roadway, overcorrected, crossed the westbound lane of travel and rolled off the westbound shoulder. FILLMORE was pronounced deceased at the scene. There were no other occupants in the vehicle.

OSP was assisted by the Harney County Sheriff's Office, Malheur County Medical Examiner and Burns Ambulance. No photos are available at this time.

On June 17, 2017 at 5:24 p.m., OSP Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two-vehicle double-fatal head-on crash, on Highway 22 near milepost 41 (Marion County).

Preliminary investigation revealed a 2007 Toyota Rav 4, operated by William Harold BODDEN, age 84, of Redmond, was westbound when, for unknown reasons, crossed the center line and struck an eastbound 2008 Jeep Patriot, operated by Joyce A. MAST, age 51, of Hillsboro, head-on. BODDEN'S passenger, Diane Theresa BODDEN, age 77, of Redmond, was pronounced deceased at the scene. William BODDEN was transported via air ambulance and died while in transport to an area hospital. MAST was transported via ground ambulance to Salem Hospital with serious injuries. There were no other occupants in the vehicles.

OSP was assisted by the Oregon Department of Transportation, Detroit Fire and Rescue and Marion County Medical Examiner. The roadway was blocked for several hours for purposes of the investigation.

More information will be released when it becomes available as this is an ongoing investigation.


Attached Media Files: Crash Photo , Crash Photo

The season for fireworks sales in Oregon will open June 23rd. Legal fireworks may be purchased only from permitted fireworks retailers and stands. To date, the Roseburg Fire Department has approved nine fireworks booths in Roseburg stores and three fireworks sales tents throughout the city. In the upcoming days, Fire Department personnel will inspect the retailers to ensure they are only selling fireworks which comply with legal guidelines. Oregon law forbids possession, use, or sale of fireworks that fly, explode, or travel more than six feet on the ground or twelve inches in the air. Bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers are ILLEGAL in Oregon, and can result in a criminal citation and fine.
Under Oregon law, illegal fireworks may be confiscated and offenders fined up to $500 per violation for possession of illegal fireworks and endangering life and property. Offenders may also be arrested. Any fireworks causing damage, or misuse of fireworks, carries a liability for the offender, who may be required to pay for resulting fire or other damage. Parents are liable for fireworks-caused damage by their children. Costs may include assessed fines as well as the cost of suppressing fireworks-caused fires.
The Roseburg Fire Department wants EVERYONE to have a safe and enjoyable Independence Day, so please remember to keep it legal when celebrating with friends and family.


Attached Media Files: Image 1

Firefighters responded to a small natural cover fire on Reservoir Hill this afternoon. City of Roseburg Firefighters and DFPA promptly extinguished the fire. The fire was contained to approximately a quarter of an acre. The fire appeared to begin in a transient camp. Firefighters would like to remind everyone as the weather conditions become hotter and drier, the potential for fire increases.

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


Attached Media Files: Image 4 , Image 3 , Image 2 , Image 1

The Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District responded with 3 engines and 10 firefighters to the report of a structure fire today at 1685 Cedar Street in Sweet Home. The fire was called in by a neighbor who noticed smoke coming from the roof vents of a garage with an apartment over it behind his home. The fire is believed to have originated from the spontaneous combustion of some rags that had been used to treat furniture with "teak oil" and placed in a bucket that was left next to a freezer to be cleaned at a later time. The fire appears to have spread to the freezer and some materials in the garage and then up into the ceiling joists where the heat luckily caused some copper water lines to rupture and and spray down onto the fire, preventing it from spreading further into the structure. The remainder of the fire was extinguished by Sweet Home Fire personnel with the majority of damage to be from smoke.
Sweet Home Fire would like to remind everyone that spontaneous combustion of oily rags is still a very common occurrence especially as temperatures and humidity rise. If you are going to use rags to apply or clean up oils, especially seed based oils, there are some steps that you can take to reduce the risk of them catching fire.
1)Never store rags in a pile. Used rags should be spread out in a safe flat area to dry. If you lay them out on your garage floor or driveway, weight them down so the wind doesn't blow them away. Once they're dry, check with your city or municipality for disposal instructions.
2)Store the rags in an airtight, non-combustible metal container. If you plan to use your rags later, this step is critical. The metal container should be filled with a solution of water and an oil breakdown detergent.
3)Follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Since manufacturers use different oils in their products, it's important to follow their warnings and disposal instructions. They may differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.

 
Cecile Richards: "If this is the Senate's idea of a bill with heart, then the women of America should have fear struck in theirs.  Slashing Medicaid and blocking millions of women from getting preventive care at Planned Parenthood is beyond heartless. One in five women in this country rely on Planned Parenthood for care. They will not stay silent as politicians vote to take away their care and their rights."  
 
Washington, DC -- Planned Parenthood Federation of America strongly opposes the just released Senate version of the American Health Care Act.
 
This bill is the worst bill for women in a generation. In addition to "defunding" Planned Parenthood and slashing Medicaid, it guts Essential Health Benefit protections, including maternity coverage and prescription drugs. Thirteen million women could lose coverage to maternity care under this bill. This bill would disproportionately impact women who already face unfair barriers to care, including low-income women and women of color.
 
Experts agree the "defund" Planned Parenthood provision is a violation of the Byrd Rule because it is politically motivated policy, similar to the tax credit provision related to abortion. It has no place on reconciliation because it violates these rules, and it has no place on any legislation because it is the epitome of a mean-spirited policy that hurts millions of women.
 
CNN reported: "Many aides believe the Senate Parliamentarian will strike this provision down on Byrd Rule grounds."
 
Now is the time for every person who cares about women's health and access to affordable quality care to speak out and join this fight. It's clear that the American people strongly oppose blocking women from going to Planned Parenthood for preventive care. We must get louder than ever so our elected officials finally start listening to us.
 
Planned Parenthood grassroots organizing has been a driving force in opposing Trumpcare and efforts to "defund" Planned Parenthood. For months, an army of pink Planned Parenthood patients, supporters, and advocates have held protest rallies, spoken out at Congressional town halls, called their members of Congress, delivered petitions to Congressional offices, and hosted field hearings.
 
Over the last several months, Planned Parenthood supporters have:
 
made more than 157,429 phone calls to members of Congress
organized more than 2,200 events across the country, including rallies, petition drops, phone banks and marches
delivered close to 1 million petitions to members of Congress in opposition to  "defunding" Planned Parenthood.


Like the House bill, the Senate bill was largely negotiated by men behind closed doors, so it is not surprising that it closely mirrors the House version of the American Health Care Act, and would:

Take away health insurance from millions of people and make it less affordable for those who will still have insurance.
 
"Defund" Planned Parenthood by blocking people with Medicaid coverage from accessing preventive care at Planned Parenthood health centers -- including birth control, cancer screenings, and STI testing and treatment.

Cut Essential Health Benefits protections, including maternity coverage and prescription drugs, which disproportionately affect women. Thirteen million women could lose coverage to maternity care under this bill.

Gut the Medicaid program, which approximately 1 in 5 women of reproductive age rely on to access no-cost, critical reproductive health care such as birth control, lifesaving cancer screenings, and maternity care.  

Reduce access to no-cost preventive services, including birth control.
 
Impose a nationwide ban on private insurance coverage of abortion.
 
Blocking people's access to Planned Parenthood is deeply unpopular with both health care experts and Americans.   
 
The provision to prohibit people with Medicaid coverage from accessing preventive care at Planned Parenthood has drawn widespread opposition from health care experts, including the American Public Health Association, the American Medical Association and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; members of Congress from both parties; and a clear majority of American voters.
 
A Quinnipiac poll shows that 80% of voters support Planned Parenthood and oppose efforts to block people from getting care at Planned Parenthood.
 
Blocking people's access to Planned Parenthood would have a devastating impact on people's health.
 
If enacted, prohibiting individuals from accessing preventive care at Planned Parenthood health centers would have a devastating impact on the 2.4 million people who rely on Planned Parenthood health centers for essential health services.
 
In March, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that the "defund" Planned Parenthood provision would result in reduced access to care for patients who live in areas where Planned Parenthood is the only health care option and where Planned Parenthood serves low-income populations. More than half of Planned Parenthood health centers are in health professional shortage areas, rural or medically underserved areas. Experts have repeatedly said that other providers cannot absorb Planned Parenthood's patients.
 
The term "defunding" Planned Parenthood is a misnomer. Planned Parenthood does not get a blank check from the federal government, and it's not a line item in the federal budget. Planned Parenthood receives reimbursements, just like hospitals and other health care organizations, for providing preventive care. Federal law already blocks federal funding from going to abortion services.
 
A number of Republican Senators have expressed their support for Planned Parenthood.
 
Three Republican Senators have publicly stated opposition to "defunding" Planned Parenthood. Senator Susan Collins and Senator Lisa Murkowski have been clear in their opposition,  
 
In April, Senator Dean Heller, in a town hall with 600 of his constituents, said he would "protect Planned Parenthood." Nevadans expect him to keep his word.

Statement by Cecile Richards, President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America:

"If this is the Senate's idea of a bill with heart, then the women of America should have fear struck in theirs.  Slashing Medicaid and blocking millions of women from getting preventive care at Planned Parenthood is beyond heartless. "The Senate bill closely mirrors the House bill, which has been widely criticized as 'mean' and the worst bill for women's health in a generation."
 
"Each and every senator should listen to the American people and vote against this legislation."
 
"If this bill passes the Senate, the consequences are dire:
"It would 'defund' Planned Parenthood; gut maternity coverage; strip millions of their health insurance; force new moms back to work shortly after giving birth; and reduce access to contraception."

"In short, this bill makes it harder to prevent unintended pregnancy, harder to have a healthy pregnancy, and harder to raise a family."

"One in five women in this country rely on Planned Parenthood for care. They are demanding that the Senate reject this bill and keep Planned Parenthood's doors open."
 
###
 
Planned Parenthood of Southwestern Oregon (PPSO) has been dedicated to providing expert reproductive health care and sexuality education in Southwestern Oregon for over 50 years. PPSO provides more than 30,000 patient visits each year at six health centers. PPSO is also the region's most respected provider of medically accurate sexuality education for young people and adults, as well as training programs for professionals who work with youth and families. Education and training programs make over 8,000 contacts each year, transforming the lives of young people in southwestern Oregon. PPSO's essential health services include breast and cervical cancer screenings, well-woman annual exams, birth control, STD prevention, testing and treatment, pregnancy testing, and HPV vaccinations. For more information, visit www.ppsworegon.org.

Salem Health presented a $50,000 Community Partnership Grant to the Salvation Army to fund an alcohol and drug professional mentor for the Salvation Army Lighthouse Shelter. Salem Health introduced the Community Partnership Grant program in Oct. 2014 and will grant a total of $306,382 in 2017. Successful initiatives improve the quality of life for those most at risk in our community and decrease the need for catastrophic care and its associated social, emotional and economic costs.

"At the Lighthouse Shelter, the ADP mentor walks alongside those with addiction and supports them as they make strides toward sobriety," said Sharon Heuer, Director of Community Benefit at Salem Health. "The mentor knows the road to recovery and helps clients navigate the way."

Since 1966, The Lighthouse Shelter has provided the Salem community with a six month transitional shelter for men and women looking to become self-sufficient. In 2016, the shelter housed 361 individuals in need. The shelter, located at 1901 Front Street in Salem, believes in meeting the needs of the whole person, including the physical, emotional and spiritual. During their stay, residents have access to three meals a day, laundry facilities, showers and warm beds.

Shelter residents work closely with case managers who connect them with community resources and help combat barriers to self-sufficiency. Case managers guide residents each week, help establish individualized plans, set goals and track progress. The program is available for up to six months, and potentially longer, if the resident is making significant progress. The grant-funded alcohol and drug professional mentor will support individuals living at the shelter who are experiencing substance abuse and who are in need of establishing on-going support services in the community.

"Approximately 58 percent of shelter residents identify a substance abuse history with addictions, and 17 percent are extreme cases of substance abuse disorder," said Captain Dan Williams. "The funds granted by Salem Health will allow us to create behavioral support plans encompassing both mental health and substance abuse. We're so grateful to partner with Salem Health in this way."

Community Partnership Grant funding encourages innovative collaboration and engagement among community organizations that share a common vision for better health and meet community health needs identified by the Salem Health Board of Trustees. Current priorities for projects include obesity prevention, tobacco and substance use and early childhood health.

Salem Health offers exceptional care to people in and around Oregon's mid-Willamette Valley. It comprises hospitals in Salem and Dallas, a medical group of primary and specialty care providers, plus other affiliated services. Visit us at www.salemhealth.org; "Like" us on www.facebook.com/salemhealth; follow us on Twitter: @salemhealth; and view us at www.youtube.com/salemhealth.


Attached Media Files: Pictured (L to R): Herb Sims, Salvation Army Advisory Board Chairperson; Dr. Ralph Yates, Chief Medical Officer of Salem Health; Melissa Baurer, Salvation Army Director of Community Services; and Captain Dan Williams, Salvation Army Marion and Polk County

Media inquiries: Media Hotline 800-570-5838


Don't lose money on the biggest myths in saving energy

Hot weather is headed our way, and keeping cool can be a strain on your pocketbook. So Pacific Power wants to dispel a few common myths about cooling off that will help you save money on your bill.

Myth: Leaving the AC running when you are away saves energy
It takes a lot of energy to cool down a sweltering house, but it is definitely a waste of money and electricity to keep your AC running when you are gone. The best option is to use a programmable thermostat that can regulate the temperature, letting your house warm up during the day and then return to your chosen comfort level by the time you get home. Also, make sure you set your air conditioner thermostat as high as comfortable -- we recommend 78 degrees or higher when you're home and 85 degrees while you are away.

Myth: Cranking the thermostat lower will cool the house off faster
The majority of residential central air systems have only one fan speed. So regardless of the set temperature, the house will adjust at the same rate. Dropping the thermostat to 65 degrees won't cool the house faster. You could just be wasting an extra 10 degrees or so worth of energy and money.

Myth: Leaving your ceiling fans on while you're away keeps your home cool
Fans cool people, not rooms. They are effective in helping you stay cool while reducing your air conditioning costs. Plus, since they are targeted to a specific area, they can be more cost-effective than cooling your entire home. But treat them like a light -- turn them off when you leave the room.

Myth: Closing vents in some rooms will boost cooling in others
Nope. The majority of modern central air systems are designed to distribute air throughout an entire house. So if you close a vent in one room, the system keeps cooling and pumping to that area without the air getting into the space. Basically you are paying to keep the inside of your A/C ducts cool. Plus, it can be hard on your system since the more vents you close, the harder your unit has to work to push the air out.

Myth: Air conditioning is the only way to keep cool
Evaporative coolers, or swamp coolers have come a long way over the past few decades. They can cool hot, dry air by up to 30 degrees through the natural process of evaporation, while using only enough electricity to power a fan. They work best in the dry, arid climates of the west because they add moisture to the air. Whole house fans, portable fans and ceiling fans are also really effective ways to cool off in the summer.

For more information and details on available cash incentives for energy efficient AC units, swamp coolers, fans and smart thermostats, as well as how customers can set up their own custom energy savings plan, visit wattsmart.com.

One lane of northbound I-5 reopened after a semi truck rollover, roughly ten miles north of the California border (five miles south of Ashland, near milepost 10). Expect major delays. Traffic is backed up more than four miles due to the crash. Drive with caution and watch for workers and equipment in the roadway as clean-up efforts continue.


Attached Media Files: 2017-06/1202/105381/3_I_5_NB_MP10_June18_.JPG , 2017-06/1202/105381/2_I-5_NB_MP10_June_18_201.JPG , 2017-06/1202/105381/1_I_5_NB_MP10_June182017.JPG

Release No: PA 17-018
For Immediate Release:
June 23, 2017

PORTLAND, Ore. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will begin erosion repairs below Dexter Dam, southeast of Eugene, July 10. The repairs may disrupt access to the south shore fishing area until July 20.

High flows eroded the shoreline, causing a fishing platform to collapse, in December 2010. The Corps will place large boulders as 'rip-rap' along the river and will close areas during mobilization of equipment before and after the repairs.

The area around the work-site will be restricted from public access, but the west-end of the parking area will be open for recreation purposes.

The fishing platform will not be replaced at this time.



-- 30 --

US Army Corps of Engineers
Portland District

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking comments on a request by Hayden Homes, LLC to conduct work impacting three (3) palustrine emergent wetlands in Springfield, Lane County, Ore. Public Notice NWP-2017-199 is available at www.nwp.usace.army.mil/Missions/Regulatory/Notices/

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking comments on a request by Alan Kay Properties, LLC to conduct work impacting seven wetlands and two tributaries to the Willamette River in Harrisburg, Linn County, Ore. Public Notice NWP-2016-612 is available at www.nwp.usace.army.mil/Missions/Regulatory/Notices/

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD) and many other national fire service organizations combine efforts to coordinate a national Safety Stand Down each year during the third week of June. The safety stand down for the fire service is based on a similar process used by the military to bring focus to a specific safety issue through training.

During the week of June 18-24, 2017, fire agencies around the nation, and Oregon, are focusing their training efforts on MAYDAY, Self-Rescue, and Rapid Intervention. These are critical skills required of individual firefighters to recognize when they are in a MAYDAY situation; the skills they need as an individual to remove themselves from the situation (Self-Rescue); and ultimately on the team skills needed to rescue a trapped firefighter (Rapid Intervention).

Regardless of agency size or composition, all firefighters who actively engage in structural firefighting will benefit from participating in the Safety Stand Down event where they can refresh or learn new skills and techniques based on today's research into firefighter MAYDAY events.

An entire week is provided to ensure all shifts and personnel can participate. Topic information, training downloads, and videos will be available at www.safetystanddown.org, the official web site for the Safety Stand Down event.

The Safety Stand Down is coordinated by the IAFC Safety, Health, and Survival Section and the National Volunteer Firefighters Council. For additional information and resources please go to http://www.safetystanddown.org/

The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST), through its Fire Training and Certification Section, helps more than 300 fire agencies around the state and Oregon's 13,000 career and volunteer firefighters.

Please note the photos attached are from a joint training session held as part of the 2017 National Safety Stand Down last night in Polk County for more than 50 fire-rescue personnel from the City of Dallas Fire & EMS Department, Falls City Fire Department, and the Southwestern Polk County Rural Fire Protection District. This hands-on scenario-based training focused on firefighter self-rescue, entanglement, May-Day, and rapid intervention.

Media outlets are encouraged to contact fire agencies in their community to find out how local career and volunteer fire agencies are participating in this national effort.


Attached Media Files: 2017-06/1187/105498/RIT_4_Dallas_6-2017.jpg , 2017-06/1187/105498/RIT_3_Dallas_6-2017.jpg , 2017-06/1187/105498/RIT_2_Dallas_6-2017.jpg , 2017-06/1187/105498/RIT_Dallas_6-2017.jpg , 2017-06/1187/105498/RIT_1_Dallas_6-2017.jpg

DPSST EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULED
For Immediate Release
June 21, 2017
Contact: Linsay Hale
(503) 378-2427

Notice of Teleconference Meeting
The Executive Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a teleconference meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, June 23, 2017.

Conference: 888-273-3658
Access Code: 4711910

A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 24 hours before the meeting by calling the contact listed above.

Agenda:

1. Minutes of June 9, 2016

2. OAR 259-060-0300 -- Denial/Suspension/Revocation; Request to File Temporary Rule
Emotional Standards for Armed Private Security Providers

3. Next Meeting -- To Be Determined


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

For Immediate Release
June 19, 2017
Contact: Linsay Hale
(503) 378-2427

Notice of Teleconference Meeting

The Executive Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a teleconference meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 21, 2017.

Conference: 888-273-3658
Access Code: 4711910

A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by calling the contact listed above.

Agenda:

1. Minutes of June 9, 2016

2. OAR 259-060-0300 -- Denial/Suspension/Revocation; Request to File Temporary Rule
Emotional Standards for Armed Private Security Providers

3. Next Meeting -- To Be Determined


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

Salem, Oregon -- A new site-specific courtyard by Oregon artist Lee Imonen, as well as a portrait of namesake Edward C. Allworth and two additional works by Oregon artist April Waters, are now installed at the Edward C. Allworth Veterans' Home in Lebanon, Oregon. The suite of public artworks is located in the main entrance, front lobby and the Canteen (or café) of the building, located at 600 North 5th Street, and may be viewed during regularly scheduled building hours: 8 to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The works were commissioned through Oregon's Percent for Art Program.

Recognizing the need to establish a model of veteran care for the 21st century, the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA) developed the Edward C. Allworth Veterans' Home, a facility where older veterans receive the skilled nursing attention they need in a supportive and comfortable community environment. With that in mind, CB Two Architects, in collaboration with NBBJ Architecture, designed a new type of veterans' home based on the "small-house" concept and the Department of Veterans Affairs Community Living Centers design guide.
The Allworth Veteran's Home Art Selection Committee sought to commission two distinct projects. The first, a site-specific work on the campus central courtyard that would inspire the community to remember the contributions of our veterans and inspire future generations while providing a site of respite and reflection for the Homes' more than 150 residents, their families and guests.

Imonen's work, "Reflection Plaza," is intended to help define a sense of place, complementing art that already exists within the home. By creating both individual and group seating opportunities in the "Reflection Plaza," Imonen created an environment that draws people in to sit quietly or to gather and visit with one another. Imonen explains, "My intent with 'Reflection' is to create a space that inspires while fostering a sense of shelter and belonging. The plaza environment should feel like an extension of the valley's natural surroundings, as if the landscape and the Home's architecture have become interconnected."
The "Reflection Plaza" is designed to create a place of respect for veterans of each of the five branches of military service. At the heart of the design is a basalt reflective pool from which water flows without end. This basin serves as the hub, the center-point of five radiating spokes. Each spoke spreads across the plaza, and together they fully define a circle of space. Separately, each section contains private seating spaces for individuals, families or small groups. Together, the five become one larger space, which can function as a gathering and meeting space for the Allworth and Lebanon communities.

Continuing ODVA's tradition of honoring facility namesakes, artist April Waters was commissioned to paint a portrait of Edward C. Allworth. Waters is known for her paintings of the creeks and rivers of Oregon. Her paintings are considered by many to be restorative and are currently in many of Oregon's hospitals, medical clinics and wellness centers.
Working from photographs and personal history from Allworth's family including portions of Allworth's original uniform, Waters' portrait commemorates Allworth and his company's attempted crossing of the Meuse River, for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor. "In this portrait, I sought to illustrate Major Allworth's bravery, steadfastness and optimism. It was in France, on the banks of the Meuse River, that he helped to bring an end to World War I," Waters explains.

Additional purchases include two original oil paintings including "Seal Cove, Salmon River Estuary" and "Wizard Island, Crater Lake," which was included in the 2012-2015 Art in Embassies exhibition, "Contemporary Artists of the Pacific Northwest." The work is viewable along the east and west walls of the OVHL Community Center.
____________________________________________
Oregon's Percent for Art Program
Oregon was one of the first states in the nation to pass Percent for Art legislation, placing works of art in public spaces throughout the state. Since then, the Percent for Art Program has maintained a commitment to the placement of permanent art of the highest quality in public places. Committees of local citizens across Oregon make selections. The overall collection enhances the state's public spaces and contributes to our well-recognized quality of life.

Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs
The Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA) serves and honors the state's veterans through leadership, advocacy and strong partnerships. ODVA is dedicated to its mission of over 70 years, to help veterans and their families thrive in Oregon. ODVA provides a wide variety of services to the Oregon veteran community, including the operation of its two Veterans' Homes, in Lebanon and The Dalles. Learn more about ODVA at: www.oregon.gov/odva and www.oregondva.com.

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

More information about the Oregon Arts Commission: www.oregonartscommission.org

-30-


Attached Media Files: Artist April Waters speaks at a recent event to mark the art’s installation. , Waters’ painting of Edward C. Allworth , Lee Imonen's exterior plaza

Salem, Oregon -- Oregon's arts and culture sector contributed $687 million and 22,299 jobs to Oregon's economy in fiscal year 2015, according to the latest Arts & Economic Prosperity study from Americans for the Arts. Released June 17 at the group's national conference in San Francisco, Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 includes first-time data from rural Oregon.

"Arts and culture play a key role in healthy, prosperous communities, particularly in rural Oregon," said Chris Harder, director of Business Oregon. "While this study highlights the significant impact of artists and cultural organizations on local economies, the resulting vibrant communities are places that are more attractive for overall business growth and investment."

The data reveals that arts and culture jobs across Oregon generated $469.5 million in household income to local residents and delivered $53 million in local and state government revenue. In addition, the 9,911,552 people who attended arts and culture events spent an average of $42.59 per event, excluding the cost of the admission ticket. Event spending, which totaled $322,956,808, includes meals, parking, souvenirs, babysitting and hotel stays.

"This is the most comprehensive data we've ever had on how vital arts and culture are to Oregon's statewide economic prosperity," said Brian Rogers, Oregon Arts Commission executive director. "Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 is evidence that the nonprofit arts and culture sector is a significant industry in the State of Oregon. It sends a strong signal that when we support the arts, we not only enhance our quality of life, but we also invest in the State of Oregon's economic well-being."

While previous studies have focused only on Portland and Eugene, a statewide consortium led by the Arts Commission enabled Baker, Clatsop, Crook, Deschutes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lincoln, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa and Yamhill counties as well as Ashland, Corvallis, Eugene and the Portland Metro area (Northeastern and Central Oregon did combined county studies) to participate.

Spending by arts and cultural organizations and audience members in the Portland Metro area was $330.4 million, up 30 percent since the last Arts & Economic Prosperity study in 2010. The spending outside of the Portland Metro area (Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties) totaled $357 million.

"We are so grateful to the Arts Commission for making it possible for us to participate," said Sharon Morgan, who was "stunned" to learn that arts and culture spending in Yamhill County totaled $45 million. Morgan, a member of the Yamhill County Cultural Coalition, organized the survey for her county.

Detailed reports for each of the Oregon regions and cities that participated are posted on the Arts Commission website.

The Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 Study was conducted by Americans for the Arts and supported by the Ruth Lilly Fund of the Americans for the Arts. Local, regional and statewide partners, such as the Oregon Arts Commission and its 11 survey partners, contributed time and financial support to the study. Financial information from partner organizations was collected in partnership with DataArts. A full list of the 341 communities who participated in the study is posted on the Americans for the Arts website.
? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?
The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of the Business Oregon (formerly Oregon Economic and Community Development Department) in 1993 in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission's expertise in grant-making, arts and cultural information and community cultural development.

The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon legislature, federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts and funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust.

? 30 ?

(Salem) -- The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) has fined Abhe & Svoboda Inc. $189,000 for nine safety violations -- two of them willful -- that exposed employees to death or serious injury as they worked on a project to restore the Ross Island Bridge in Portland.

Oregon OSHA cited the violations as the result of an investigation of a Feb. 8, 2017, accident. Each violation, though different in detail, involved the same grave problem: a failure to protect workers from falls that would seriously hurt or kill them.

The accident happened underneath the bridge, where a suspended scaffolding system was installed. An employee was working on an upper deck, 37 feet above a lower platform. He fell through a ladder opening, landing on an employee who was working directly below on the lower platform. Both employees survived the accident, suffering multiple injuries.

The employee who fell was not protected by a fall protection system, per Oregon OSHA's rules. In fact, an estimated eight employees were exposed to this hazard when the accident occurred, according to the investigation.

The investigation also found:
The company failed to provide proper access to work areas, forcing employees to climb up or down the scaffolding and bridge structure, and to sidestep or step over holes ranging in size from three inches to 24 inches
The company failed to construct and install the scaffolding system according to the minimum bracing requirements, as outlined by professional specifications
Scaffolds and related components were not set up, dismantled, and moved under the direction of a competent person
Employees lacked rest platforms while climbing 37-foot ladders
The company failed to ensure that employees had a work platform that was at least 18 inches wide
Anchorages for fall protection equipment were not installed or used under the supervision of a competent person
Scaffolds were not inspected for visible defects before each work shift by a competent person
A makeshift device -- a wooden step stool -- was used on platforms to increase the working height of employees

During the investigation, the corporate safety manager for Minnesota-based Abhe & Svoboda spoke dismissively of Oregon's workplace safety rules, saying they change too much.

"Each and every year, falls are one of the major sources of serious injury and death in Oregon workplaces," said Oregon OSHA Administrator Michael Wood. "There is never a good reason to ignore the need to protect workers from such hazards. Yet, this employer brushed off time-tested fall protection rules that are designed to prevent injuries or deaths."

Oregon OSHA cited two of the nine safety violations as willful: the failure to provide proper access to work areas, which forced employees to climb structures and step over holes, and the failure to follow bracing requirements for the scaffolding. Each willful violation carries the legal maximum penalty of $70,000. A willful violation occurs when an employer intentionally or knowingly allows a violation to occur.

Seven of the nine violations were cited as serious, each with the maximum penalty of $7,000.

###

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, visit www.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.dcbs.oregon.gov. Follow DCBS on Twitter: twitter.com/OregonDCBS. Receive consumer help and information on insurance, mortgages, investments, workplace safety, and more.


Attached Media Files: Citation document

Sweet Home, Ore.-- Over 200 wildland firefighters and instructors will convene in Sweet Home at the end of June to take part in the annual five day Mid-Willamette Valley Interagency Wildland Fire School. Officials from the U.S. Forest Service, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), U.S Fish and Wildlife Service, Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) are hosting the training to prepare new firefighters for the rigors of fighting fire, both in Oregon's forests and in rural-urban interface areas.

Co-Incident Commanders Shawn Sheldon, Deputy Fire Staff for the BLM and Willamette National Forest; and Craig Pettinger, Unit Forester for ODF in Sweet Home, see fire school as an opportunity to train firefighters in both tactical skills and safety.

"This is the 21st year we have collaborated for this. Fire School provides crucial education and training in wildland fire to new firefighters and gives career firefighters a chance to refresh their skills and explore leadership opportunities," said Sheldon.

Trainees will spend the first part of the week in a classroom setting. Classes include basic fire behavior, weather, map and compass use, teamwork, safety, use of engines, tools and hose lays, fighting fire in the rural-urban interface and fire investigation. Students will sleep in tents at Sweet Home High School and eat their meals communally, giving them a taste of life in a real fire camp.

The course culminates with a live fire exercise on June 30th just outside of Sweet Home. This will give trainees a final challenge: applying their newly acquired skills to suppress and mop-up a real fire.

"Cascade Timber Consulting, Inc., a local landowner, provides a new field site each year and we are very grateful," added Sheldon. "The live-fire exercise significantly enhances the students' training experience -- working in smoke, hiking through uneven terrain, and working closely with crew members to dig fireline, are all things they'll experience this season as wildland firefighters."

Safety principles of fire training include wearing protective gear, safe use of tools and being on the lookout for hazards. "Safety is paramount in every aspect of wildland firefighting, and it begins with our training exercises," explained Pettinger. "Working together in a training setting improves communications and builds effective relationships for the agencies to draw on during fire season."

This year, the field site that will be used for the live fire exercise is located approximately 5 miles east of Sweet Home adjacent to Highway 20. Fire officials are urging the public to use caution as there will be increased fire traffic in the area and the potential for visible smoke on Friday, June 30th. For more information, please contact Public Information Officers Joanie Schmidgall, (541) 367-3809, or Dawn Sleight, (503) 829-2216.
# # #

Note to media: This opportunity offers access to both trainee and experienced firefighters as they prepare for the 2017 fire season. However, we require 24 hour notice of your intent to participate, as all media must be accompanied by an agency escort and have personal protective equipment. Personal protective equipment includes Nomex pants, long sleeve Nomex shirt, gloves, hard hat, and boots with vibram soles. Protective equipment (excluding leather boots) may be available for media to borrow. Please contact Joanie Schmidgall to make arrangements.

SALEM, Ore. -- While the southwest U.S. sizzles in a record-breaking heatwave, Oregon is also in store for elevated temperatures this weekend. Summer heat and dry landscapes increase the risk of wildfires. With some parts of the state already having declared fire season in effect, fire officials would like to remind all Oregonians to be aware of fire danger when working or recreating outdoors.

"Given the right conditions, a fire can start almost any time of year," says Oregon Department of Forestry Fire Prevention Coordinator Tom Fields. "And while we've been blessed with cool conditions thus far, fire activity is beginning to pick up as we head into the first weekend of summer."

More than 125 fires have burned 170 acres of forest and grasslands under ODF's protection in 2017. The lion's share (57 fires and 67 acres) have resulted from debris burning while another 14 were caused by people recreating (campfires, fireworks and target shooting).

If you're planning a camping trip this weekend, take extra steps to prevent a catastrophe.
Keep your vehicle on good roads and don't idle over dry grass.
Campgrounds are best for campfires. If campfires are allowed outside campgrounds, choose a location in a clear area away from grass, brush and overhanging trees.
If campfires are allowed where you're heading, keep it contained and small by surrounding it with rocks. Have water and a shovel close by at all times. Put the fire completely out before leaving.

If instead, you're planning on cleaning up the property this weekend, think twice before burning yard debris. Chipping or taking to a recycling center may be safer options. Check with your local ODF/protective association office or fire department for current restrictions. If burning is allowed:
Refrain from burning on windy days.
Try to burn in the morning when conditions are moister.
Keep burn piles small and manageable, feeding from larger piles.
Scratch a wide fire trail down to mineral soil around the pile and have a shovel and charged garden hose at the ready.
Never leave the pile unattended and put the fire completely out when finished.
Finally, go back over the next several weeks and double check the pile for heat and smoke. Burn piles can retain heat for several weeks and rekindle under warm, windy conditions.

For more information on fire restrictions and closures in your area, visit www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/restrictions or call your local ODF office.
# # #

REDMOND, Ore. - The Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) today announced the recipients of its annual Mined Land Reclamation Awards.

Protecting endangered fish through construction of engineered channels, reclaiming mined land to timber production concurrently with completion of mining, and reclaiming mined land for industrial business use are among the efforts recognized for the 2016 calendar year.

Honorees are:

Outstanding Reclamation: Irvin and Maryjane Sharp for exceeding requirements and creating diverse riparian habitat in final reclamation of their sand and gravel site outside Molalla.

Voluntary Reclamation: Scappoose Sand & Gravel Co. for their multi-decade commitment to restoring mined land back to industrial use through innovative techniques in recycling and backfilling.

Outstanding Operator: South Chemult Pumice Inc. is being recognized for excellent ongoing operations, including concurrent reclamation practices.

Good Neighbor Award: Charles and Irene Kornegay are being recognized for their quick and sustained efforts to address previous operator errors at their upland quarry near The Dalles, and working with the adjacent landowner to protect property and natural resources.

Oregon Plan Award: Knife River Corporation Northwest is being recognized for their commitment to ensuring long-term stability of a Sweet Home site by protecting endangered fish species through engineering solutions, as well as final reclamation of mined land to fish and wildlife habitat.

About the Mined Land Reclamation Awards
DOGAMI's Mineral Land Regulation & Reclamation program oversees nearly 900 permits statewide. Each year, DOGAMI and an independent panel of experts select mine sites and operators to receive awards for excellence in reclamation, mine operation, and habitat protection. The awards were presented June 22, 2017 during the Oregon Concrete & Aggregate Producers Association (OCAPA) Annual Meeting at the Eagle Crest Resort in Redmond.


###

Additional information about the awardees is available at: http://www.oregongeology.org/mlrr/awards.htm
Photos are available on the Oregon Geology Flickr at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/oregongeology/albums

PORTLAND, Ore. - The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, June 26 at DOGAMI's Portland offices, 800 NE Oregon St., Ste. 965.

The meeting agenda is available at www.OregonGeology.org

The DOGAMI Governing Board sets policy and oversees general operations, and adopts a strategic plan every six years to guide DOGAMI's mission and objectives. The Board meets 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.

June 22, 2017

What: The quarterly public meeting of the Healthcare-Associated Infections Advisory Committee (HAIAC)

Agenda: Outbreaks update 2017; infection control assessment and response (ICAR) update; annual Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report; annual Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) Program report; neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) collaborative update; multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) toolkit; discussion of themes and topics for future 2017 meetings.

When: Wednesday, June 28, 1-3 p.m. A 15-minute public comment period is scheduled at 2:45 p.m.; comments are limited to five minutes.

Where: Portland State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Room 1B, Portland. A conference call line is available at 877-873-8018, access code 7872333.

OHA provides oversight and support for the mandatory reporting of healthcare-associated infections in Oregon via the HAI Program. The program convenes its advisory board on a quarterly basis. The purpose of the board is to make recommendations to OHA regarding infection measures reportable by health care facilities.

Program contact: Roza Tammer, 971-673-1074, roza.p.tammer@state.or.us

# # #

June 22, 2017

Contact: Amanda Peden, 503-208-1010, amanda.m.peden@state.or.us (meeting information or accommodations)

What: The regular monthly public meeting of the Medicaid Advisory Committee

When: Wednesday, June 28, 9 a.m. to noon

Where: Oregon State Library, 250 Winter Street NE, Room 102, Salem. The meeting will also be available via webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1742663635510619908 or by conference call at 213-929-4212, access code 437-672-657. A recording of the meeting will be posted at the Medicaid Advisory Committee's website at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/HP-MAC/Pages/index.aspx.

Agenda: The committee will hear an Oregon Health Plan member's story about their Medicaid experience. OHA staff will update the committee on various federal health policy proposals including per-capita caps. Lori Coyner, Oregon Health Authority Medicaid director, will give an overview of health-related services and applications in coordinated care organizations (CCOs), to inform future social determinants of health policy work.

After its regular business the committee will host a special public forum on the Medicaid 1115 Waiver Award, including an opportunity for public questions and comment.

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

# # #

http://bit.ly/2sYPoZ8

June 20, 2017

Contact: Pamela Naylor, 503-559-2216, pamela.naylor@state.or.us (meeting information or accommodations)

What: The regular meeting of the Oregon Health Authority Metrics Technical Advisory Group

When: Thursday, June 22, 1-3 p.m.

Where: Lincoln Building, 8th floor Mary Conference Room, 421 SW Oak St., Portland

Attendees can also join remotely through a webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/3481507190725738756 or by conference line at 888-848-7030, participant code 695-684.

Agenda: Updates on Metrics and Scoring Committee decisions about the 2018 measure set, and discussion of Technical Advisory Group recommendations for 2018 benchmarks

For more information, please visit the committee's website at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/analytics/Pages/Metrics-Technical-Advisory-Group.aspx.

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

# # #

http://bit.ly/2sNq7QM

June 20, 2017

Reduced blue-green algae and toxin levels confirmed; continued caution with pets advised

The Oregon Health Authority has lifted the health advisory issued June 7 for water around Eagle Point County Park on Upper Klamath Lake. The park is located off Oregon Route 140, 15 miles west of Klamath Falls in Klamath County.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of blue-green algae toxins are below guideline values for human exposure. However, the Oregon Health Authority recommends that people continue to be cautious with their pets in the lake because toxins in some areas such as Keno State Park are still above the very low exposure levels established for dogs.

Oregon health officials advise recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of algae blooms in all Oregon waters, because only a fraction of the many lakes and waterways in Oregon are monitored for blue-green algae by state and federal agencies. People and their pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red in color, if a thick mat of blue-green algae is visible in the water, or bright green cells are suspended in the water column. If you observe these signs in the water you are encouraged to avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities.

For health information, to report human or pet illnesses due to blooms, or to ask questions about a news release, contact the Oregon Health Authority at 971-673-0400. For information about advisories issued or lifted for the season, contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 877-290-6767 or visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://healthoregon.org/hab and select "Algae Bloom Advisories."

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June 19, 2017

Oregon's Medicaid Advisory Committee (MAC) is looking for oral health care providers interested in helping improve the quality of care for Oregonians. The committee is seeking applicants for a two-year term beginning this fall.

Federal rules require the state to have a Medicaid Advisory Committee. The MAC advises the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Department of Human Services (DHS) on the Oregon Health Plan, Oregon's Medicaid program, from the perspective of members and communities. The committee also develops policy recommendations at the request of the Governor and OHA.

Members are appointed by the Governor and can serve two consecutive two-year terms.

The MAC is committed to ensuring that its members represent a diverse group of individuals and that its recommendations represent the populations they are intended to serve. People of color and individuals from all areas of the state are encouraged to apply.

The committee especially seeks individuals with the following qualifications or background:
-- Oral health care providers with current or recent clinical experience, including administrators (e.g., dental directors) with recent or current clinical experience;
-- Individuals who understand Oregon's Medicaid dental delivery system, including coordinated care organizations, dental managed care organizations, and the fee-for-service or open card system.

Members should be able to regularly attend committee meetings, contribute to policy-level discussions about the future of health care in Oregon, and spend one to two hours monthly preparing for meetings, which are held the fourth Wednesday of each month in Salem. Direct travel expenses are reimbursed. Members on occasion can attend via conference line and webinar.

Interested persons can request an application by contacting Amanda Peden at 503-208-1010 or amanda.m.peden@state.or.us. For more information, see the committee's website at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/hpa/hp-mac/pages/index.aspx.

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Springfield woman goes for milk, brings $7 million home

WHO: Oregon Lottery officials

WHEN: 11 a.m., Friday, June 23, 2017

WHERE: Dari-Mart, 1950 Mohawk Blvd., OR

WHAT: Oregon Lottery officials will present a $70,000 selling bonus check to representatives of Dari-Mart for selling a $7 million Oregon's Game Megabucks ticket June 10. Lottery officials will also be handing out Powerball free plays at the event.

BACKGROUND: Michelle Sutherland of Springfield went to the store to get milk, and ended up winning $7 million playing Oregon's Game Megabucks. Sutherland stopped at Dari-Mart #38 and got her Megabucks ticket on Saturday, June 10, and on Sunday, she was a millionaire.

VISUALS: Oregon Lottery officials will present an over-sized ceremonial check to representatives of Dari-Mart and will also distribute a limited amount of Powerball free-play tickets to patrons of the store. Michelle Sutherland has been invited to the event, however she will not be attending.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned over $11 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org

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June 20, 2017 - Salem, Ore. -- A Saturday afternoon trip to the store to buy milk turned into a $7 million jackpot for a Springfield couple.

Michelle Sutherland, a retired U.S. Postal Service worker, went to the store to get groceries and stopped at a Dari-Mart in Springfield, to pick up an Oregon's Game Megabucks ticket.

"We play very casually, and usually I just buy the Megabucks tickets because it's Oregon's Game," Sutherland said. "Then, the next day, Sunday morning, we were reading the paper and checked the numbers and thought there was a mistake. All our numbers matched."

Sutherland checked the winning ticket on her phone, computer and even went and scanned the ticket at a local store. All indicators showed them winning the $7 million Oregon's Game Megabucks jackpot. Every time they play Lottery draw games, Michelle always had a number or two on her ticket," her husband Robert said. Now he's glad he didn't buy the ticket.

"When we figured out we'd won, we stayed home and contacted our financial advisor," Michelle said. "We didn't tell anyone."

The couple plan on "spoiling their grandkids" over the summer with the winnings from their "quick pick" ticket, and might travel this fall. The couple opted to take the lump-sum payment and after taxes took home $2.3 million.

Michelle Sutherland joins Robert Frost, Susan Gasperini and Chris Erion as 2017 Oregon's Game Megabucks winners this year. Sutherland purchased her ticket at the Dari-Mart on Mohawk Blvd. in Springfield. Dari-Mart will receive a 1-percent selling bonus of $70,000 for selling the winning ticket.

Proceeds from Oregon Lottery sales help fund public education, parks, economic development and watershed projects. Lane County school districts received more than $24 million in Oregon Lottery dollars in the 2013-15 biennium.
The Oregon Lottery reminds players to always sign the back of their Lottery tickets, regardless of the game. In the event of winning a jackpot, they should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Prize winners of more than $50,000 are advised to contact the Lottery office and schedule an appointment to claim their prize.
Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $11 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org

Coming Fall 2017, the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) will offer a new digital review and compliance submittal service called Go Digital. Go Digital will streamline the submittal process and allow our office to assist a greater number of customers while maintaining response times. In response to requests from our customers, our Go Digital service will allow for an easier, quicker way to submit, receive, track, and consult on new and existing projects.

Go Digital Basics:

Go Digital submittals are heavily encouraged; however, hard-copy or paper submittals will still be accepted via standard mail.
If a project is submitted via hard-copy or paper, all future correspondence associated with the project must be submitted in the same format, including all updates and revisions.
Similarly, if a project is submitted via Go Digital, no hard-copy materials associated with the project will be accepted later in the consultation process.
Archaeological reports and site forms submitted via Go Digital will no longer require a hard-copy or CD.
Go Digital submittals will not be accepted unless they are sent to the ORSHPO.Clearance@oregon.gov email following the Go Digital Submittal Guidelines.
Go Digital Submittal Guidelines will be available prior to roll out.

For questions regarding Go Digital, contact Matt Diederich at (503) 986-0577 or matt.diederich@oregon.gov.

The Oregon State Historic Preservation Office is part of Oregon Heritage, a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. Other Oregon Heritage programs include the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries, the Oregon Heritage Commission, and the Oregon Main Street Program. Learn more about Oregon Heritage by visiting www.oregonheritage.org.

Salem, Ore. -- Oregon State Parks and the Capitol History Gateway, a project of the Oregon State Capitol Foundation are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Beach Bill -- the landmark legislation passed in 1967 that protects the public's right to access the coast -- with a Beach Bill Birthday Bash from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 8 at the state Capitol, 900 Court St. NE in Salem.

"We're bringing the beach to the Capitol, where the legacy of Oregon's open beaches began," said Laurel Hillmann, event coordinator and Ocean Shores Specialist for Oregon State Parks.

The free event will feature a concert on the lawn in State Capitol State Park at 11:30 a.m. by Portland artist Slater Smith, who will debut his new coast-inspired album.

The event kicks off at 10 a.m. with a professional kite flying demonstration. Guests can enjoy free birthday cupcakes and a free scoop of really creamy Tillamook ice cream from the traveling Yum Bus while supplies last. Mo's, a favorite coastal destination for many families, will bring its iconic chowder to the event for purchase.

Activities for kids include kite making, beach-themed crafts, face painting and digging for treasures in a giant sandbox. Kids can meet a giant inflatable Dungeness crab; Oregon State Parks' mascot JR Beaver; and Washed Ashore's famous 7-foot salmon Nora, sculpted from beach trash.

Attendees can also enter a raffle to win limited-edition glass floats created by Lincoln City glassblowers and engraved with a commemorative 50th anniversary stamp.

Booths and exhibits will feature beach trivia; information on beach recreation, including clamming, crabbing and whale watching; and ways all Oregonians can protect and preserve this treasure for future generations.

Inside the Capitol, a 30-minute Oregon Public Broadcasting Beach Bill documentary will air for the duration of the event, and a special Beach Bill exhibit will be on display in the Galleria.

Visitors can learn about Oregon's unique Beach history in a Beach Bill-themed Capitol tour at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 p.m. Weather permitting, the public can also take a tower tour to the Oregon Pioneer at 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m.

Oregonians have always enjoyed visiting the coast, but that tradition was first officially protected in 1913, when Governor Oswald West and the Oregon legislature established the state's 362 miles of shoreline as a public highway, a designation that only applied to the wet-sand portions of the beaches.

Then, in the summer of 1966, the owner of a Cannon Beach hotel put down large driftwood logs to block off a section of the beach to all but his guests. In response, the State Highway Commission, with Gov. Tom McCall's support, introduced two bills in the legislature. The bills mimicked a Texas law that recognized the public's continued use of private beach land as a permanent right.

At first, the bills had little public support and seemed destined to fail. But news stories and a well-publicized visit to Cannon Beach by Gov. McCall spread the word that Oregon's open beaches were at risk.

"Most people had assumed the beaches were already public and weren't aware of the efforts at the capital until it was almost too late," Hillmann said. "In the end, Oregonians' persistence saved the beach."

The legislature passed the Beach Bill on June 7, 1967, and the governor signed it into law on July 6.

The bill would "forever preserve and maintain the sovereignty of the state heretofore existing over the seashore and ocean beaches of the state...so that the public may have the free and uninterrupted use thereof."

But the process didn't end there. The legislation faced many legal challenges, and additional rules and statues followed defining the beach boundary.

Organizers encourage those planning to attend to RSVP on Facebook at bit.ly/beachbirthdaybash. Parking is free under the Capitol Mall, accessible from Chemeketa Street NE. Meters surrounding the Capitol are not enforced on weekends.

For event information, call the Capitol's Visitor Services at 503-986-1388 or visit the events page at oregoncapitol.com. For information on the history of the Beach Bill and other ways to celebrate this anniversary year, go to oregonbeachparty.org.

Oregon Heritage, a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, awarded 21 grants totaling $70,265 for projects across the state that support preservation of historic cemeteries. Projects range from monument repair to information kiosks and awards range from $390-$8,000.

Funded projects include:
Monument repair.
Placing markers on unmarked graves.
Fence repair.
Install kiosks with maps and historical information.
Tree trimming and felling.
Road repair.

Projects were awarded to Butteville Pioneer Cemetery, City of Canby, Coquille Indian Tribe, Crooked Finger Cemetery, Deadwood Pioneer Cemetery, Eugene Pioneer Cemetery, Gillespie Cemetery, Inc., Greenwood Hills Cemetery Maintenance Association, Kings Valley Cemetery Association, City of Klamath Falls, Lacomb Cemetery Association, Maple Grove Cemetery, Nehalem Valley Historical Society, Phoenix Pioneer Cemetery Association, City of Salem, St. Johns Lodge #17 Masonic Cemetery Association, Kirsten Straus, City of Ukiah, Wagner Creek Cemetery Association, Weston Cemetery Maintenance District #2, Willamette Valley Jewish Community Burial Society.
This competitive grant program is for projects that support the preservation of historic cemeteries. The state designation of a historic cemetery is one that includes the burial of at least one person who died before February 14, 1909. It is a project of the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries which is comprised of seven citizens and is empowered by the Legislature to develop and maintain a listing of all pioneer and historic cemeteries in Oregon; make recommendations for funding, obtain grants funding, seek legislative appropriations for historic cemeteries, and assist in the coordination of restoration, renovation and maintenance of historic cemeteries statewide.

The Commission is part of Oregon Heritage, a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. To learn more about the Oregon Historic Cemeteries Grant or the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.gill@oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.



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Attached Media Files: List of Cemetery Grant Awards

Oregon Heritage, a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, awarded 8 grants totaling $55,140 to museums across the state for collections, tourism or education related. Projects range from exhibits to collections housing and awards range from $4,000-$10,000.

Funded projects include:
Baker Heritage Museum, in Baker City, for a Paint Your Wagon exhibit.
Deschutes County Historical Society for exhibit lighting and window treatments at the Deschutes County Historical Museum in Bend.
Douglas County Historical Society for a new HVAC system at the Floed-Lane House in Roseburg.
High Desert Museum, near Bend, for the "Blake Little: Photographs from the Gay Rodeo" exhibit and programming.
Maxville Heritage Interpretive Center, in Joseph, for an interactive interpretive kiosk.
Oregon Historical Society to update the educational traveling trunks and develop new curriculum.
Oregon State Hospital Museum of Mental Health, in Salem, for research into and care of 97 pieces of art, some produced by patients.
Sheridan Museum of History for the installation of exhibits in the new museum.
This competitive grant program is for qualifying museums, and is offered annually in the spring. It is a program of the Oregon Heritage Commission, comprised of nine people representing Oregon's heritage and geographical diversity who have been appointed by the Governor. There are nine advisory representatives from state agencies and statewide organizations. The mission of the Oregon Heritage Commission is to secure, sustain, and enhance Oregon's heritage by ensuring coordination of heritage initiatives by public and private organizations; advocacy on its behalf; education of the public about its extent and value; and promotion and celebration of its diversity.

The Commission is part of Oregon Heritage, a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. To learn more about the Oregon Museum Grant or the Oregon Heritage Commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.gill@oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.



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Attached Media Files: List of museum grant awards

The Lane Education Service District Board of Directors will meet on Thursday, June 29, 2017 at 12:00 p.m. All meetings of the Lane Education Service District Board of Directors are held at Lane Education Service District, 1200 Highway 99 North, Eugene, Oregon.

Board meeting agendas can be found online at https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicHome.aspx?ak=1001591

Below is a list of Coos Bay Public Schools Public Meetings currently scheduled for end of June & July, 2017. All meetings are held at Milner Crest Education Center, 1255 Hemlock Ave., Coos Bay, unless otherwise noted. The schedule and agenda are subject to change.

Special School Board Meeting/Workshop - June 26 at 5:30 PM. Agenda and packet is posted at http://cbd9.net/schoolboard/agendas

Special School Board Meeting/Workshop -- July 6 at 5:00 PM. Agenda and packet will be posted at http://cbd9.net/schoolboard/agendas the Wednesday before the meeting.

There will be no regular board meeting in July or special board meeting/workshop in August.

For a list of all public meetings scheduled, go to http://cbd9.net/public-meetings-schedule

All Coos Bay School District Board Meetings are subject to the Public Meetings Law (ORS 192.610-192.710). The public is welcome to attend. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. Request for other accommodations should be made to Peggy Ahlgrim at 541-267-1310, 541-269-5366 (fax) or peggya@coos-bay.k12.or.us


Peggy Ahlgrim
Secretary to Superintendent & School Board
peggya@coos-bay.k12.or.us
541-267-1310

Summary: Data shows young worker injuries more common during summer months
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School is out and its officially summer break. But, as many young workers head out the door for their first job, SAIF wants to make sure they don't get their first workplace injury.

Unfortunately, since 2010 there were nearly 12,000 young worker injury claims (between the ages of 16 and 24) reported to SAIF during the summer months of June, July, and August--more than 30 percent of all young worker injury claims. More than 500 of those injuries were within the first week on the job.

In fact, summer break injuries were 48 percent more likely for young workers than winter break injuries (in November, December, and January) during that timeframe.

"Our goal is to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work--starting with ensuring young workers know the importance of workplace safety, on the first day of their first job," said Kevin Pfau, senior safety management consultant at SAIF. "For employers, this is a good reminder to teach all employees about safety, even if they aren't full time or long term."

While workplace safety is critical in any industry, young worker injuries are most common among jobs in restaurants, retirement centers, and auto service providers (including car washes). The three most common injuries were strains and sprains, lacerations, and contusions or bruises--making up more than 66 percent of claims.

Young workers and employers interested in more information can visit saif.com/youngworkers.

About SAIF:
SAIF is Oregon's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurance company. For more than 100 years, we've been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work.

Burns, Oregon -- Burns Paiute Tribal Chairman Joe DeLaRosa today called upon a group known as the Rainbow Family of Living Light to respect the Burns Paiute Tribe's cultural resources when the group visits the Malheur National Forest next month. "The Rainbow Family's proposed camp site is squarely within our ancestral territory," explained Chairman DeLaRosa. "This land is sacred to us, and we hope they respect it."

Recently the Rainbow Family announced that they had selected a site in the Malheur National Forest, near Seneca, Oregon, for their annual week-long gathering, known as the "Gathering of the Tribes." There are important archaeological and other cultural resources nearby.

The Burns Paiute Tribe are a federally-recognized Indian tribe whose ancestors inhabited southeast Oregon, southern Idaho, and northern California and Nevada. The Burns Paiute Tribe's present reservation is located near Burns, Oregon. The Burns Paiute Tribe's ancestral territory includes the area now managed as the Malheur National Forest, as well as other federal lands in southeast Oregon. The Burns Paiute Tribe has not ceded any of its rights in the Tribe's ancestral territory.

The Burns Paiute Tribe's ancestors signed a treaty with the federal government in 1868. The 1868 treaty was not ratified by the United States Congress, but both parties acted in reliance on the treaty. Under its terms, the Government guaranteed it would protect the safety and property of the Northern Paiute people. The Government also committed to inflict punishment for "any crime or injury [that] is perpetrated by any white man upon the Indians aforesaid ... according to the Laws of the United States and the State of Oregon." In addition, the federal government has a Trust responsibility to the Burns Paiute Tribe to protect cultural resources on federal lands. Several federal laws protect native cultural properties. The Burns Paiute Tribe is also communicating with federal officials on the need to protect its important sacred resources on federal lands. "The Burns Paiute Tribe is landless, due to the wrongful taking of our ancestral homeland, much of which remains in federal ownership," explained Chairman DeLaRosa. "It is critical that the federal government protects our cultural heritage on federal land," he added.

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a home fire disaster on June 21, 2017, at approximately 8:30 p.m. in the 5200 block of Donohoe Avenue in Eugene, OR. The fire affected five people, including two adults and three children.
The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits with toiletry items, information about recovery services, and health and mental health services. Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department.
The Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families affected by disasters, like home fires, every day. The Red Cross advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online form at www.redcross.org/CascadesHomeFire to schedule an appointment.

Disaster responders with the local American Red Cross responded to a single-family home fire disaster on Sunday July 18, 2017 at approximately 11:20 in the 4900 block of Forsythia Drive in Springfield, Oregon. The fire affected two adults, and two pets.

The Red Cross provided resources to help address the immediate basic needs of those affected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits with toiletry items, information about recovery services. Additional information about this incident, if available, may be obtained from the local first responding agency/fire department.

The Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (the Cascades Region) helps an average of three families affected by disasters, like home fires, every day. The Red Cross advocates emergency preparedness and offers the installation of free smoke alarms in our community. Residents may call (503) 528-5783 or complete an online form at www.redcross.org/CascadesHomeFire to schedule an appointment.

MCMINNVILLE, Ore. (June 23, 2017) -- Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum will be the host venue for the McMinnville July 4th Fireworks celebration this year. The Museum, the Chamber and The Falls Event Center want to engage and connect community around our national holiday. This event will provide a fun, safe and family friendly environment to hang out, have fun, and watch a top-notch fireworks display.

The event will begin at 5 p.m. in the parking lot between the Aviation and Space Museum buildings. Experience local food vendors, live music by Mitch and the Melody Makers, family and kid activities, free movies and the only fireworks display in McMinnville and East Yamhill County. The Museum facilities will also be open for a reduced admission price of $5 from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

More details are available on the Museum website https://www.evergreenmuseum.org/ and the Chamber's website http://mcminnville.org/july-4th/

About Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is best known as the home of the world's largest wooden aircraft, the Hughes Flying Boat "Spruce Goose." The Museum collection also includes a rare SR-71 "Blackbird," and the Titan II SLV Missile--with its original launch room. Discover more than 200 historic aircraft, spacecraft, and exhibits on display, along with artwork and traveling exhibits. The Museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate and educational partners with the Academy of Model Aeronautics, the NASA Jet Propulsion Lab, the Oregon Space Consortium and the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program. The Museum is located at 500 NE Captain Michael King Smith Way, across the highway from the McMinnville Airport and about three miles southeast of McMinnville, Ore., on Highway 18. The Museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission required. Call 503-434-4180 or visit https://www.evergreenmuseum.org/ for more information.

About the McMinnville Area Chamber of Commerce
The McMinnville Area Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization currently listing 410 members and representing over 8,500 jobs in the McMinnville area. They are focused on four Core Functions: Building a Strong Local Economy, Promoting Community, Building Relationships and Networks, and Providing Education and Activation on Political Issues. The McMinnville Chamber is located at 417 NW Adams St McMinnville, OR 97128. Open weekdays from 8-5 p.m. For more information please call 503.472.6196 or email chamberinfo@mcminnville.org.

About The Falls Event Center
The Falls Event Center creates an event space for you to dream, inspire, and celebrate life's greatest moments. Our unique, neutral palette will allow you to use any décor your heart desires. You can bring any vendor you choose to help you plan and execute your event. Our professional staff will be there every step of the way with any assistance you may need. Our heart beats for more than just building event venues, it's about building dreams. For more information or to inquire about your future event please visit: https://thefallseventcenter.com/location/mcminnville-or/

June 22, 2017 -- After Senate Republicans unveiled their Better Care Reconciliation Act this morning, Andy Davidson, President and CEO of the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems issued the following statement:

"Oregon's community hospitals have evaluated federal health care reform efforts based on a set of patient- and community-centered principles that focus on preserving the gains in access and affordability that we've made over the past decade.

"Unfortunately, the draft Better Care Reconciliation Act released today by Senate Republicans does not meet our principles. In fact, it moves our health care system in the opposite direction. The proposed changes to Medicaid, both the end of the expansion funding as well as deep cuts to the non-expansion problem would pose severe problems for Oregon. The changes to the provider tax reimbursement rate in the early part of the next decade would add an additional layer of budgetary stress to our state, and by extension the patients we serve.

"We join with our counterparts in the national hospital community alongside patient advocates, doctors, politicians and others in urging the Senate to revise this legislation so that it focuses on improving access to affordable care and helps states achieve that goal on behalf of their citizens."
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Attached Media Files: 2017-06/1635/105509/OAHHS_BCRA_statement.pdf

LEADING ON CLIMATE: OREGON PRIVATE SECTOR LEADERS
LAUNCH NEW ALLIANCE TODAY

Portland, Oregon, June 22, 2017-- With climate change already impacting Oregon industry, private sector leaders from across the state are joining forces to ensure business has a strong role in solutions-based, economically viable climate policy. Led by Alliance chair Tom Kelly of Neil Kelly Company, the new Oregon Business Alliance for Climate (the Alliance) will officially launch today.

Kelly, along with Jim Bernau and Steve Clem, representing founding members Willamette Valley Vineyards and Skanska USA, respectively, will present remarks at the event.

"The Business Alliance for Climate is specifically focused on Oregon's clean energy economy, including carbon pricing options, that will make the most sense for statewide business interests," Kelly said. "A well-planned carbon pricing system in Oregon will reduce the cost of doing business through fuel and energy savings while resulting in more good paying clean energy jobs, including much needed rural jobs, and cleaner air."

WHAT: Press conference to announce the launch of new Oregon Business Alliance for Climate
When: Thursday, June 22, 2017, 9:45 a.m.
Where: Umpqua Bank, South Waterfront Location, 3606 SW Bond Ave., Portland.

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Our Mission: Oregon business and industry leaders supporting collaborative policy and business engagements aimed at promoting investment, job creation and competitiveness by leveraging carbon pricing to invest in the state's clean energy economy.


Attached Media Files: Media Release , Alliance logo

OREGON BUSINESS LEADERS ANNOUNCE LAUNCH OF NEW STATEWIDE BUSINESS ALLIANCE FOR CLIMATE

A well-planned carbon pricing system in Oregon will reduce the cost of doing business through fuel and energy savings while resulting in more good paying clean energy jobs,
including much needed rural jobs, and cleaner air.

With climate change already impacting Oregon industry, the lack of federal leadership and action presents Oregon businesses across the state with an opportune and critical moment to lead and act with a united voice.

Led by chair Tom Kelly of Neil Kelly company, founding members of the newly formed Oregon Business Alliance for Climate (the Alliance), will host a press conference Thursday, June 22, 2017 to formally announce the Alliance Launch.

"The Business Alliance for Climate is specifically focused on Oregon's clean energy economy, including carbon pricing options, that will make the most sense for statewide business interests," Kelly said.

WHAT: Press conference to announce the launch of new Oregon Business Alliance for Climate
When: Thursday, June 22, 2017, 9:45 a.m.
Where: Umpqua Bank, South Waterfront Location, 3606 SW Bond Ave., Portland.

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Our Mission: Oregon business and industry leaders supporting collaborative policy and business engagements aimed at promoting investment, job creation and competitiveness by leveraging carbon pricing to invest in the state's clean energy economy.

Our Focus: Supporting statewide climate policy and helping the state develop a carbon pricing policy that works for Oregon, provides critical investment into Oregon's clean energy in rural and urban parts of the state, and increases the resiliency of our local communities