Calapooia Fire District

Board of Directors Meeting - December 19, 2018 

The Calapooia Fire District Directors will be holding a business meeting at 7:00 p.m. on December 19, 2018 at the Calapooia Fire Station, located on Highway 138 East.

Agenda for the meeting

• Fire Station Kitchen Update
• Volunteer/Student Program Update
• Contract with Douglas County Fire District No. 2

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. - The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office will be participating in a DUII High Visibility Enforcement event on New Year’s Eve 12/31/18.

The increased patrols are being funded using a DUII Enforcement grant from Oregon Department of Transportation and the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association (OSSA). The goal with the High Visibility Enforcement events is to heighten patrol on days or weekends commonly associated with drinking and driving. The Sheriff’s Office hopes to prevent deaths, injuries and property damage caused by DUII drivers by removing them from the roadways.

If you suspect DUII driver, please report them by calling 911.

ROSEBURG, Ore. - The Douglas County Sheriff's Office is seeking information as to the whereabouts of 60 year-old Linda Rene Smith of Roseburg. 

Smith was reported as a missing person to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office by her roommate on Tuesday, December 11, 2018. At that time, a deputy took a report and entered Smith into a national law enforcement database as missing. Efforts to locate her have been unsuccessful.  

It is reported Smith left her home in the Green District in a white panel van with an unknown license plate on Saturday, December 8th around 3:00 pm with a male companion. Smith had informed her roommate that she would be gone for a few days, but has not yet returned and has not been heard from.

Smith is described as 5'01'' tall, 110 lbs, blonde hair and blue eyes.  Her clothing description is unknown at this time. 

Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of Ms. Smith are asked to contact the Douglas County Sheriff's Office at 541-440-4471 referencing case number 18-5499.

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. - It seems to make its rounds every few months. The phone rings, it is answered and the person on the other end of the telephone identifies themselves as a law enforcement officer and tells the person that they have missed jury duty, failed to pay some fines, or they have a warrant for their arrest. Eventually, the caller states it can be cleared up by paying fees or fines in the form of Western Union, pre-loaded debit cards or gift cards.  HANG UP! IT IS A SCAM! 

The Sheriff's Office has been receiving several calls from members of the community reporting they have received such calls from people claiming to work for the Sheriff's Office. Some names they are providing are actual names of Sheriff's Office staff members. 

It is critically important for our community to be aware of these tactics and to share them with their friends and family members, especially those who may be vulnerable to falling victim to the scams, such as the elderly members of the community. 

"It is important for retailers to inform their staff members about the scam and to ask them to be watchful for people who may be making the transactions in relation to the scam", said Sgt. Brad O'Dell. 

Law Enforcement will not call people to let them know they have a warrant, rather they will make personal contact. 

If you believe you have fallen victim to this scam, please contact the Douglas County Sheriff's Office at 541-440-4471.

In the late night hours of Tuesday, December 11th, 2018, detectives with the Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team arrested 37 year old Victor Haines, of Roseburg.

Detectives, with the help of the Sutherlin Police Department, initiated a traffic stop on Haines in the 200 block of S. State Street in Sutherlin just before midnight.  A search of the vehicle revealed over 43 grams of suspected methamphetamine as well as scales and other drug paraphernalia.  

Haines was transported to the Douglas County Jail where he was lodged on the charges of Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine, Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine, and Probation Violation.

Welcome to the Oregon FBI’s Tech Tuesday segment. This week: building a digital defense against online shopping scams.

If the pressure of the jingle bell frenzy already has you frazzled – you will be happy (or maybe not happy) to know that Christmas is just one week away. Just seven very short days to get everything done. But, if you are an online shopper and blue-light bargain hunter, you know you’ve got this covered. A few clicks, and you can have your shopping done in a breeze. Be warned, though, that scammers are on the hunt for seasonal shoppers.

It goes like this: your loved one has – with high expectations – placed that new gadget, video game or collectible on this year’s wish list. You search endlessly for the best value, but the prices are a little higher than you wanted. Then, you stumble upon a deal that blows away the rest. Good price and free shipping? You are sold! Of course, if the scammer got to you, the only thing that shows up at your door is a bill.  

In many cases, a fraudulent online store or digital ad promises the best products at low prices, often much lower than what you can find at a known retailer. The victim snaps up the item, but then waits and waits for an item that never arrives. If it does show up, it may be damaged or the box may contain something completely different than what you wanted. You, the buyer, are left with an empty wallet and an empty box under the tree.

As you shop online this holiday season, consider these safe shopping tips:

• Watch out for luxury brands with significantly low prices.
• Do a basic online search using the name of the store or vendor in question and the word “scam”.
• If the seller asks for payment in the form of gift cards or wire transfers, don’t do it. This is a huge red flag.
• Keep an eye out for typos in the item listing or on the seller’s website.
• Finally, before ordering, check to make sure there is legitimate contact information for the store or seller in the event that you have a problem.

A few simple steps can make a big difference this holiday season.

If you have been victimized by this scam or any other online scam, report it 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.

Note to media:  Tech Tuesday will be on hiatus for the 12/25/18 and 1/1/19 editions. We will resume on 1/8/19.

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. – Local law enforcement agencies are teaming up to help prevent crashes involving distracted driving.  Through Saturday, personnel from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) and Medford Police Department (MPD) will be watching for drivers affected by cell phones and other distractions.

“The goal is to bring awareness to the problem and to hopefully prevent tragedies around the holidays,” said JCSO Sergeant Heath Kocina. 

Deputies say impaired driving is commonly acknowledged as a problem during the holiday season, but it isn’t the only traffic concern.  Distractions such as cell phones and winter weather conditions like fog and rain compound the danger to motorists.  As people head out to finish their holiday shopping and attend events, more vehicles clog roadways, increasing the potential for crashes. 

The patrols will focus on busy roadways – especially those near or leading to popular shopping areas – between December 18 and 22, 2018.  Grant funding earmarked for the enforcement of distracted driving laws allows law enforcement agencies to add overtime patrols without taking away from regular calls for service.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving led to the deaths of 3,450 people in the United States in 2016.  Deputies urge drivers to ditch the distractions and keep their eyes on the road. 

Since October 2017, Oregon law has prohibited drivers from any “hands on” cell phone use while driving.  Updates to the law since July 2018 create steeper penalties, especially for repeat offenders.  A first offense that doesn’t contribute to a crash is a Class B violation with a maximum fine of $1,000. A second offense (or a first offense that contributes to a crash) is Class A violation with a maximum fine of $2,000.  A third offense in ten years can be charged as a Class B misdemeanor, which could result in a maximum fine of $2,500 and six months in jail.

For more information on Oregon’s distracted driving laws, go to https://www.oregon.gov/odot/safety/pages/distracted.aspx .

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JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff's Office (JCSO) deputies will be conducting saturation patrols through the holiday season to stop impaired drivers.  From Thursday, December 13, 2018, through New Year's Eve, deputies will focus their patrols on rural roadways in an effort to spot drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  

Grant funding allows JCSO to put extra deputies on the road to specifically enforce impaired driving laws without taking away from response to normal calls for service.  It is part of the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign sponsored by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).

“This time of year, many people will be attending holiday parties and events,” said JCSO Sergeant Julie Denney.  “The last thing we want to see is a celebration turned into a tragedy because somebody made the choice to drive while impaired.”

Deputies say prevention is the key -- plan ahead to avoid driving while impaired:

• DRINK OR DRIVE: Once you know where you'll celebrate, decide whether you're drinking or driving – choose only one and stick to it.
• WEED WARNING: Even though the recreational use of marijuana is legal for adults in Oregon, it is not legal (or safe) to drive while impaired by the drug.
• GETTING AROUND: Before you get to the party, know how you’re getting home. If you're the designated driver, don't drink. If you're impaired and your ride falls through, use a taxi or rideshare service, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation to get home safely.
• PASSENGERS, TOO: Drivers aren't the only ones at risk. Only accept a ride from a sober driver.
• HELP A FRIEND: If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, help them to make other transportation arrangements or offer them a place to stay.
• SAY SOMETHING: If you suspect an impaired driver on the roadway, call police immediately. It is okay to call 911 to make a report.

For more information on the NHTSA Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, go to the NHTSA website at https://www.nhtsa.gov/es/drunk-driving/holiday-season-drive-sober-or-get-pulled-over .

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Today 1:21 p.m. Jefferson Fire District was dispatched to an ATV rollover near Parrish Gap Rd., Jefferson, Oregon. Upon arrival, Division Chief Louis Gisler, was informed a hunter was riding a ATV up the side of a hill and had rolled it. He was located approximately 1 mile up the side of a steep hill. Due to the rough terrain, a few firefighter/paramedics started hiking up to the patient. At the same time, Albany Fire was dispatched with a sport utility side by side.

Albany arrived and assisted with Jefferson fire personnel to get the patient off the side of the hill and to a nearby landing zone where they met Life Flight Network to transport the patient to a local hospital. 

UPDATE:  08/131/8 @ 3:46 P.M.

After an exhaustive search of all buildings operated by Guaranty Auto Group by emergency personnel accompanied by the assistance of the Explosive Detection Canine, it has been determined that the email threat received earlier today, is most likely a dangerous hoax just like the others that have occurred in various locations across the United States.  The Junction City Police Department extends our sincere appreciation to all community members for their efficient cooperation throughout this event, and a heartfelt thank you to all our partner agencies and organizations (the Junction City Fire Department, the University of Oregon Police Department, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, the Junction City Public Works Department, and the Junction City Christ’s Center) for once again stepping up to help our city.

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On December 13, 2018 at approximately 11:40 A.M. the Junction City Police Department received a report the Guaranty RV and Auto Dealership Company located at 20 Hwy 99 South, located in Junction City, Oregon received a bomb threat via email.  The email was received by a Guaranty employee at approximately 10:51 A.M. this same day.  While we cannot release the exact contents of the message, in sum and substance, the email demands a specific amount of money be delivered by a specific time or the bombs will be detonated.

A number of such other emails have been received in the hours immediately preceding this event in the Coburg and Eugene areas, however, none have been deemed to be a credible threat.  Moreover, it has been determined that similar threats have been received in multiple political subdivisions all across the United States over the past days and weeks; these threats have likewise been determined to be unfounded.  The FBI and other federal law enforcement agencies are aware of these incidents and aggressively investigating all leads.

While all of these threats, to this point, have been unsubstantiated neither the Junction City Police Department, nor the respected owners of the Guaranty Auto dealers, are willing to assume the small, but very realistic possibility, that one of these days these perpetrators may actually utilize live explosives to make a point.  To this end, collaboratively and in unanimously, the JCPD and Guaranty’s leadership teams made the decision to close all of their business locations, evacuate all of their employees, and conduct a systematic room by room search of every square foot of their property to ensure no threats exists.

The JCPD has appropriately staffed their emergency dispatch center with extra personnel, have extra police officers on duty, and have acquired the assistance of the University of Oregon Explosives Detection canine that is playing a critical role in executing a swift and comprehensive search.  As an added measure of security, Junction City High School Superintendent, Kathleen Rodden-Nord was apprised of the situation as soon as the police department was notified.  Superintendent Rodden-Nord agreed the probable danger to students and staff was minimal, but made the decision to place all of the schools in a “lock-out” state until the situation was fully resolved.

Citizens are urged to refrain from visiting, driving, and/or frequenting the areas of the Guaranty properties until information is received that it is safe to do so.  Anyone with information on the name(s) of the person(s) involved in this or other incidents is urged to the contact the Junction City Police Department immediately at 541-998-1245.

The Junction City Police Department has been aided in this investigation by the Junction City Fire Department, the University of Oregon Police Department, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, the Junction City Public Works Department, and the Junction City Christ’s Center.

Updates will be sent when available.

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A 71-year-old Lebanon man fell down a 40-foot embankment and into the South Santiam River on Wednesday afternoon near the Mark’s Slough Trail. A bystander noticed a dog pacing near the edge of the embankment and took a closer look to find the male and another dog clinging to the embankment at the water’s edge.

The Lebanon Fire District responded and initiated a low-angle rope rescue of the victim, who was in stable condition but unable to stand or walk due to fatigue and hypothermia. Firefighters used ropes and mechanical advantage systems to lower rescuers to the victim, load the man into a Stokes basket, and then haul the victim and rescuers up the embankment. The male was transported to Lebanon Community Hospital for treatment of hypothermia. The dogs were given a ride home by their human mom.

The Lebanon Fire District reminds people that rivers are extremely dangerous in winter, with low temperatures and increased levels of debris. If you will be out walking on trails or near rivers, always notify someone of where you plan to go and what time you plan to return.

For HD Video of this and other LFD incidents, please subscribe to the Lebanon Fire District YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjTxDBuPbD3DPAybCkCgEvg

For HD photos of this and other LFD incidents, please follow the Lebanon Fire District Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LebanonFireDistrict/?ref=bookmarks

For updates on large scale incidents within the Lebanon Fire District, follow us on Twitter: @LebanonFD

Finding Your Way in Winter

 Winter officially begins in another week or so, but the time to start driving with extra caution is now. Our partners at the Oregon Department of Transportation have some excellent tips regarding use of your GPS during our rough and unpredictable weather and we thought it would be good to share them here as well: 

When roads are closed and your GPS navigation system directs you onto a detour route, keep in mind that the device you count on for guidance could instead guide you into trouble. Most navigation tools don’t take current road or weather conditions into consideration. They may direct you onto remote roads that are neither maintained nor passible in all weather conditions.

Already this season someone had to be rescued after following their GPS navigation device off the main highway and onto a snow- covered forest service road near Mount Hood. Fortunately, they received help and everyone was safe. This has not always been the case.

Navigation systems and similar smartphone apps are great tools, but travelers may need to verify the identified detour route is appropriate given current conditions and the vehicle they are driving. Here are a few tips to consider:

What you can do
• Be aware that the app on your phone or in your GPS device might not have the latest information – don’t follow it blindly! 
• Use TripCheck.com (available on your computer and on your phone) to get the latest on state road conditions, or call 511.
• Remember, in winter conditions (or in summer’s fire season), roads can be impassable, so USE COMMON SENSE. 
• If you are not familiar with an area and current road conditions, stay on state roads and don’t attempt detours onto roads you don’t know.
• Alter your travel plans.  If you are not sure of the route and road conditions your GPS device directs you to, ask local folks for information and consult a map. It is better to stay the night in town rather than be stuck on a remote road in the middle of nowhere.

What ODOT will do
• ODOT crews work continually to keep state highways safe, but during certain conditions, such as blowing snow and freezing temperatures, you may want to avoid travel altogether.
• ODOT will issue media flash alerts if roads are closed. These will be updated continually on TripCheck.com.

For other tips and information visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriffnet   or  visit us on Facebook: Lincoln County Sheriff - Oregon

Linn County Sheriff Jim Yon reports on December 13, 2018, his Detectives arrested Eric Wayne Dille, 46 of Mill City, for one count of Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the First Degree and one count of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree. Eric Dille was arrested after video evidence implicated him in these crimes, which occurred several years prior.  The victim in this case is an adult female, known by Eric Dille, and was incapacitated at the time the crimes occurred.
 
Video evidence leads investigators believe there are other female victims.  Anyone with information about this investigation is encouraged to contact Detective Mike Rossiter of the Linn County Sheriff’s Office at 541-967-3950.

Linn County Sheriff Jim Yon reports on some activities his office has participated in over the last week. 

Last week was the annual Oregon State Sheriff’s Association (OSSA) Conference in Bend.  Linn County had two deputies recognized at the awards banquet. 

Deputy Craig Lyman was awarded the Meritorious Service Award for his many years of excellence in the field of DUII detection, DUII enforcement and DUII education.  Deputy Lyman has dedicated his career making our roadways safer to travel on.  Deputy Lyman is also a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) and a DRE instructor. 

Deputy Caleb Riley was awarded a Life Saving Award from his time with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office.   In essence, Riley and several other deputies responded to a shooting on the western end of Benton County.  They encountered an injured female with a gunshot wound and they needed to take immediate action to save her life.  They used a patrol vehicle as cover to get to the female and remove her.  They were able to put her inside the vehicle and take to safety.  She was then transported to an area hospital for treatment. 

Also at the awards banquet, retired Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley was awarded his lifetime membership into OSSA.  This is not an automatic award.  The recipient must be voted in by current Sheriff’s from around the state.  Thank you for your service Sheriff Riley!!

The Sheriff’s Office also participated in annual Shop-with-a-Cop events in Sweet Home and Lebanon.  There were 31 kids in Sweet Home and 69 in Lebanon.  A big Thank you to the Lebanon and Sweet Home Police Departments for organizing these great events.  Albany’s Shop-with-a-cop is being held on Saturday December 15. 

December 11 was the last day of Citizens Academy for the Fall 2018 class.  They learned all aspects of what the Sheriff’s Office does during the 12 week course.  The class went to the shooting range and did a session on shoot don’t shoot scenario’s.    

The Sheriff’s Office is going to hold the 39th edition of Citizens Academy again next spring, 2019.  If you are interested in attending, please keep your eyes out for an advertisement in February and March.   

Finally, the holidays are happy times for many, but there are also those who really struggle during this time of year.  Sheriff Yon would like all of us to keep an eye out on each other.   Do not be afraid to say something if you notice a friend or a loved one is struggling.  It takes just a minute to save a life. 

In an effort to better serve our media partners, MCSO has created an email address that can be monitored simultaneously by our team of PIO's. Please add the following email address to your contact list for the Marion County Sheriff's Office.

Email: MCSOPIO@co.marion.or.us

Thanks,

Chris

On Thursday, November 22, 2018 (Thanksgiving Day) at 9:23 P.M, South Lane Fire Department, Goshen-Pleasant Hill Fire Department, Dexter Fire Department, and Eugene-Springfield Fire Department responded to the Super 8 Motel located at 345 Oregon Avenue, in Creswell for a fire. 

Upon arrival the fire was discovered and extinguished. 

On Saturday, November 24, 2018, at 1:42 AM a fire was reported at the same location. The fire departments again responded and extinguished the fire. 

Due to the suspicious nature of the fires, the Oregon State Police Arson Unit was requested to assist in the investigation.  Arson  Detectives responded and led a joint origin and cause Investigation with the South Lane Fire Department and Lane County Sheriff’s Office. 

The fire was determined to be incendiary and intentionally set.  Following an investigation, detectives learned the owners of the Super 8 Motel franchise, Inder Singh and Satinder Singh, intentionally planned and caused the fire. 

On Thanksgiving there were 6 rooms rented and a minimum of 7 people in the motel at the time of the fire. 

On Sunday, December 16, 2018, Inder and Satinder Singh were arrested and lodged at the Lane County Jail on arson charges. 

The investigation is still on going.      

The operator has been identified as Vallerie Miller (66) from California

On Thursday, December 13, 2018, at approximately 5:00PM, a Jeep SUV was traveling eastbound on Highway 140 near milepost 30 in Jackson County when the vehicle left the roadway, traveled down an embankment, and collided with a tree.

The female driver, and sole occupant of the vehicle, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Winter weather conditions in the area contributed to the collision.  

Oregon State Police was assisted by ODOT, Lake Creek Rural Fire, and the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

On Saturday, December 15, 2018 at approximately 10:07 PM, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a report of a motor vehicle crash on Hwy 99W near milepost 114.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2000 Honda Accord operated by, Saucedo Salvador-Mendez (21) of Cheshire was traveling southbound at a high rate of speed and collided with the back of a southbound 2011 Ford F350 PU operated by, Peter Haag (20) of Junction City.  

The front seat passenger in the Honda Accord, Francisco Jose Perez-Velasco (33) of Corvallis, was not wearing a seat belt and sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The rear passenger in the Honda Accord, Chase Pomaikai Kealoha (21) of Junction City, was wearing a seat belt and sustained minor injuries - not transported to the hospital.

Salvador-Mendez was transported to Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend and treated for injuries. 

Haag sustained minor injuries and was not transported to the hospital.

Alcohol impairment and speed by Salvador-Mendez are being investigated as probable factors.

Hwy 99W southbound lanes were closed for approximately four hours.  ODOT created a detour in center turn lane to accommodate southbound traffic.  

OSP was assisted by Junction City Police, Lane County Fire Department, and ODOT.

December 14, 2018 

On Friday, December 14, 2018 Interstate 84, from milepost 304 in Baker County to milepost 216 in Umatilla County, was closed for for several hours due to high winds. 

Pendleton Area Command Troopers responded to the scene of this commercial motor vehicle rollover crash on Interstate 84 westbound near milepost 223.

Strong winds blew the tractor/trailer over.

No injuries reported.

On Thursday, December 13, 2018 at approximately 5:48 PM Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a two vehicle, head on collision, on Hwy 20 near milepost 4.

Preliminary investigation revealed a  Chevrolet Cobalt, operated by Jane Dunn (64) of Albany, was westbound on Hwy 20 when it crossed the center line and struck an eastbound Chevrolet Tahoe, operated by Kelly Blodgett (40) of Corvallis.  

Dunn was pronounced deceased at the hospital. 

Blodgett was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.  An adult passenger and 4 juvenile children in the Tahoe were not injured.

Hwy 20 was partially closed for approximately three hours. 

OSP was assisted by the Albany Fire Department and ODOT.   

On Thursday, December 13, 2018 at approximately 6:15 A.M. Richard Drew Wilson (26) of Eagle Point attempted to cross the northbound lanes of I-5 near the Exit 33 interchange in Central Point.  Visibility in the area was limited by darkness and dense fog. 

Wilson was struck by a northbound Nissan Xterra driven by Jeri Renee Wiggins (52) of Medford. 

Wilson was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

Oregon State Police was assisted by ODOT, Jackson County Fire District 3, and the Jackson County Sheriff's Office. 

I-5 northbound was reduced to a single lane of travel for approximately three hours.

In 2015,  Kevin Howard Noel reported taking an 8-pt mule deer buck in the Steens Mountain Unit during archery season with a valid archery deer tag.  He subsequently presented the buck at a Northwest sportsman show for measurement, resulting in placing 1st that year for Non-Typical Archery Mule Deer, and 8th all-time in the state of Oregon.

In May 2018, while Noel was being investigated for other crimes, the Oregon State Police received credible information that Noel had actually killed the record buck with a rifle, instead of a bow, as required by his tag.  Fish & Wildlife troopers with the Springfield Command of the Oregon State Police initiated an investigation, resulting in seizure of the mount and arrest of Noel in Lane County for Unlawful Possession of Mule Deer Buck Parts.

On November 28, 2018 a Lane County jury found Noel guilty of that offense.  On December 5, 2018, Lane County Circuit Court Judge Debra Velure sentenced Noel to three years bench probation, 15 days jail, a 3-year suspension of his hunting privileges in the state, forfeiture of the trophy mount to the Oregon State Police, a $6250.00 fine, and a condition that he not participate in any hunting excursions for the next three years.   

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators 

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

Preference Point Rewards:

5 Points-Bighorn Sheep

5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points-Moose

5 Points-Wolf

4 Points-Elk

4 Points-Deer

4 Points-Antelope

4 Points-Bear

4 Points-Cougar

Or the Oregon Hunters Association TIP reward fund also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat, Moose, Elk, Deer, Antelope, Bear, Cougar, Wolf, Upland Birds, Waterfowl, and Furbearers. Cash rewards can also be awarded for the unlawful take of Game Fish and Shellfish and for Habitat Destruction.

CASH REWARDS:
$1,000 Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat and Moose 
$500 Elk, Deer and Antelope 
$300 Bear, Cougar and Wolf 
$300 Habitat Destruction 
$100 Upland Birds and Waterfowl 
$100 Furbearers 

$100 Game Fish and Shellfish 

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity: 

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP(677)

TIP E-Mail: TIP@state.or.us (Monitored M-F 8:00AM - 5:00PM)

On Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at approximately 5:56 PM Oregon State Police and emergency personnel responded to a multi vehicle crash on Hwy 238 near milepost 38 in Jackson County.

Preliminary investigation reveals that Charles Redlingshafer (21) of Central Point was operating a 1989 Ford PU towing a trailer loaded with hay, he lost control of the trailer and crashed into a Geo Metro (driver to be identified later) and a 1987 Toyota PU, operated by Nancy Asman (66) of Jacksonville.

Asman sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Geo sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

Redlingshafer was not injured.

Hwy 238 was closed for approximately 9 hours for investigation and recovery of vehicles.

OSP was assisted by Applegate Valley Fire District, Mercy Flights, Jackson County Sheriff's Office, Jacksonville Police Department, and ODOT.

On Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at approximately 5:10 pm, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a motor vehicle crash on Hwy 99E near milepost 36.5.  This is approximately 1/2 mile south of Gervais. 

Preliminary investigation revealed that a white 1996 Honda Accord, operated by Jose Alfredo Garcia-Ortega, age 35, of Woodburn, OR, was traveling northbound on Hwy 99E when for unknown reasons it drifted over the lane lines and into the southbound lane and struck a 2000 Chevrolet box truck, operated by Jasper Davenport, age 35, of Mill City, OR.   Garcia-Ortega's vehicle then collided with a third vehicle, a 2003 Toyota Tacoma pickup, operated by Nick Martishev, age 53, of Gervais, OR.

Garcia-Ortega sustained fatal injuries in the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  He was not wearing a seat belt.

Davenport and Martishev were transported to the Salem Hospital for treatment of injuries. 

Hwy 99E was closed for approximately four hours. 

OSP was assisted by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, ODOT, Woodburn Police Department, and Woodburn Fire Department.

VANCOUVER, Wash. –  PeaceHealth and ZOOM+Care® (“Zoom”) today announced that they have signed a definitive agreement for PeaceHealth to acquire ZOOM+Care. PeaceHealth and Zoom® will provide access to a continuum of care that offers consumers more choice and convenience in how they receive healthcare services, ranging from mobile app-driven services and neighborhood clinics to sophisticated specialty and hospital services. 

PeaceHealth is a leading health system serving communities throughout the Pacific Northwest and Zoom provides an innovative, on-demand neighborhood health platform and is based in Portland, Oregon.

“The addition of Zoom to PeaceHealth’s networks accelerates our vision of ensuring greater healthcare accessibility and affordability in our communities while increasing our ability to meet the on-demand needs of today’s consumer,” said Liz Dunne, PeaceHealth President and Chief Executive Officer. “What is so exciting about this relationship is the complementary nature of our organizations and our shared passion for being the stewards of our communities’ health and well-being.”

Founded in 2006, ZOOM+Care has led the on-demand healthcare movement, building one of the country’s leading platforms for the innovative delivery of retail and digital healthcare. In just over 10 years, Zoom has grown to serve hundreds of thousands of people annually in 37 neighborhood clinics in Oregon and Washington, providing a full range of healthcare services, as well as innovative telemedicine services.

“Over the past decade, we imagined a future with our customer (we call her Sarah) at the center, managing her care using our mobile app and having easy access to neighborhood locations for her care,” said Dave Sanders, MD, Zoom's Co-Founder and CEO. “We found in PeaceHealth a shared vision and recognition that healthcare is continually evolving with increasing preferences for on-demand care. PeaceHealth and ZOOM+Care both aim to create a magnetic consumer experience, provide superb clinical results and help make healthcare more accessible and affordable.

“I'm also delighted for our hundreds of thousands of loyal patients who've come to rely on Zoom, because they can be confident that Zoom and its dedicated healthcare professionals and associates will continue to be there for them," added Sanders.

Under the terms of the agreement, ZOOM+Care and PeaceHealth will continue to operate independently with separate leadership. ZOOM+Care will further its focus on innovation, consumer experience and expanding access. PeaceHealth’s acquisition of ZOOM+Care is expected to close Dec. 31, 2018.

For more information, read some anticipated questions and answers about the agreement.

About PeaceHealth: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a nonprofit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, a multi-specialty medical group practice with more than 1,200 physicians and providers, and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org.

About ZOOM+Care: ZOOM+Care® is creating a better way to get and give healthcare. The Portland-based innovator is the leading provider of on-demand retail and digital healthcare. Zoom® cares for hundreds of thousands of people per year at 37 neighborhood clinics in Portland, Vancouver, Seattle and Salem. Zoom provides complete care including urgent care, primary care, specialty care, mental health, telemedicine and more. ZOOM+Care was founded in 2006 by Portland, Oregon, physicians David Sanders, MD, and Albert DiPiero, MD, MPH. ZOOM+Care was built on the promise of Twice 1/2 Ten® - twice the health, half the cost, ten times the delight. ZOOM+Care is credited with many healthcare firsts that have accelerated improvements in the delivery of care and has been selected as one of Oregon’s “Most Admired Companies” for five consecutive years. ZOOM+Care and Zoom are registered trademarks of ZOOM+Care. Visit us online at zoomcare.com.

PORTLAND, Ore. — In its annual fall giving campaign, NW Natural employees and retirees came together to give nearly $140,000. These contributions are matched by the company’s shareholder Corporate Philanthropy Fund, bringing the total to about $280,000 in donations for regional nonprofits.

The donations are distributed to organizations selected by employees, along with NW Natural’s nonprofit partners: Black United Fund of Oregon, EarthShare Oregon, Oregon Food Bank, United Way, and Work for Art.

“We’re pleased to add a fifth partner – Oregon Food Bank – to our giving roster this year,” said Von Summers, NW Natural’s community affairs manager. “Oregon Food Bank’s amazing work can be seen throughout the more than 140 communities in Oregon and Southwest Washington where we provide service, which means employees can give back to their neighbors.”

NW Natural has been a longtime supporter of the Oregon Food Bank. In October, a group of employees joined Oregon Food Bank’s volunteers to help package almost 50,000 pounds of food – enough to serve about 41,283 meals for people in need.

In addition to donations, employees embrace the company’s value of service by giving their time as well. To the many organizations where employees regularly volunteer their time outside of work, NW Natural’s Dollars for Doers program gave almost $20,000 in shareholder funds.

To learn more about NW Natural’s Corporate Philanthropy Fund and charitable giving programs, visit: https://www.nwnatural.com/AboutNWNatural/Community/CorporateContributions

About NW Natural

NW Natural provides natural gas service to approximately two million people in more than 140 communities through 740,000 meters in Oregon and Southwest Washington with one of the most modern pipeline systems in the nation. It consistently leads the industry with high J.D. Power & Associates customer satisfaction scores. 

NW Natural is part of Northwest Natural Holding Company, (NYSE: NWN) (NW Natural Holdings), which is headquartered in Portland, Oregon and owns NW Natural, NW Natural Water Company, and other business interests and activities. 

NW Natural is currently constructing a 2.5 Bcf regulated gas storage expansion of its 16 Bcf facility in Oregon to support renewables. NW Natural Holdings' subsidiaries own and operate 31 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity.

NW Natural Water provides water distribution service to more than 17,000 people through 5,300 meters. To date, NW Natural Water has acquired four water distribution systems with one additional acquisition pending. Cumulatively, the company has committed approximately $67 million in the water and wastewater industry for nearly 16,700 connections in the Pacific Northwest.

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Contact: Drew Hanson, 503-813-6678                                                            

Dec. 13, 2018                                                                                      

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pacific Power’s Blue Sky customers are greening holiday lights with renewable energy

With Pacific Power’s customer-driven Blue Sky renewable energy program, holiday festivities in 12 communities are supported by renewable energy

PORTLAND, Ore. —From the Benton County Holiday Celebration to the downtown Portland Christmas lighting to the Madras Chamber of Commerce and City of Madras production of A Christmas Fantasy, communities throughout Oregon and Washington are getting support from Blue Sky participants to “green” the electricity used to power their holiday lights.

Together, these holiday lighting displays are being “greened” with about 195 megawatt hours of renewable energy. The impact of this effort allows communities to reduce their carbon footprint tied to their holiday lights’ electricity use by a combined 176,246 pounds of CO2.

 “Powering lights for community holiday celebrations is a century-old tradition for Pacific Power.” said Berit Kling, Blue Sky program manager. “Blue Sky customers have been “greening” the holiday lights in communities across the service area for more than 10 years. It’s a great way to join in the holiday festivities while raising awareness for the value of renewable energy.”

Communities greening their holiday light displays this year include:

• Albany, Ore.
• Cannon Beach, Ore.
• Corvallis, Ore.
• Dayton, Wash.
• Lebanon, Ore.
• Lincoln City, Ore.
• Madras, Ore.
• Medford, Ore.
• Portland, Ore.
• Prineville, Ore.
• Redmond, Ore.
• Seaside, Ore.

Pacific Power customers can also celebrate the season by greening their own homes and businesses. Through Blue Sky, customers can choose to support renewable energy equal to all or part of their energy use and start reducing their carbon footprint today.

“Blue Sky customers support wind, solar and other renewable sources,” said Kling. “The program helps customers reduce their carbon footprint and helps drive demand for more renewable energy in our region. While Pacific Power is always bringing more renewable energy into our basic service mix, some customers want to do more now and Blue Sky gives those customers a chance to match up to 100 percent of their energy use with renewable energy today.”

Last year, Blue Sky participants supported more than 777,000,000 kilowatt-hours of renewable energy and reduced their combined carbon footprints by 318,674 tons of CO2. Together, they supported enough renewable energy to travel from the Oregon coast to the tip of Maine 350,298 times in an electric vehicle.  

You can join more than 125,000 current Blue Sky participants by calling Pacific Power at 1-800-769-3717 or by visiting www.pacificpower.net/bluesky. Blue Sky is an opt-in program. You can increase participation or withdraw at any time.

Environmental benefits derived by comparing the Blue Sky mix with Green-e Residual Mix Emission Rates for US Customers (WECC) April 2017. Green-e Energy does not certify or verify carbon emissions claims or methodologies for calculating emissions related to biomass.     EV electricity consumption based on 2015 average efficiency of top-selling US EV brands (see https://energy.gov/downloads/egallon-methodology)

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About Blue Sky

Blue Sky has ranked in the top five nationally for the number of customers participating and for renewable power sales volume. The program is Green-e Energy certified, which means the renewable energy supported meets the rigorous national environmental and consumer-protection standards established by the nonprofit Center for Resource Solutions. For more information or to join over 125,000 Pacific Power customers participating in the Blue Sky program, visit www.pacificpower.net/bluesky.

About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides electric service to more than 740,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. Our goal is to provide our customers with value for their energy dollar, and safe, reliable electricity. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with almost 1.9 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.

Contact:  Pacific Power media hotline                       FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

               1-800-570-5838                                           Dec. 12, 2018

What is the winter forecast inside your home?

Meteorologists call for a mild winter with some cold snaps, but by using smart technology and Pacific Power’s energy tips you can forecast savings for your home this season

PORTLAND, Ore. – It’s a law of physics. The colder it gets outside, the more energy it takes to keep your house warm. New home technology can help offset that equation with insights that give you more control over your usage and energy bill.

This year, Pacific Power began upgrading more than 630,000 customers in Oregon and California to smart meters, bringing a new opportunity for winter savings. The nearly 350,000 customers who now have an activated new meter can tap into tools to help them better manage their energy use. Having a smart meter enables customers to view their daily and hourly electricity usage via their online account, and empowers them to make informed choices to help control their bills.

Customers with a smart meter can also set up a bill threshold and sign up to receive alerts when their bills are projected to exceed their chosen threshold. With this feature, customers get a text or email notifying them so they can make adjustments to their usage or budget, as needed.

“Technology can be a great way for customers to get in front of what can be a time of seasonally higher energy bills,” said Barb Coughlin, Pacific Power’s vice president for customer service. “Lower-tech options are also helpful, like sealing all windows or doors before the cold really sets in. This can be done inexpensively now and the difference will show up once temperatures start dipping below freezing.”

Another way to help manage winter bills is to switch to Equal Pay. Under Equal Pay, energy costs are averaged out over the year, so bills are more predictable and manageable. Customers can enroll in Equal Pay online at pacificpower.net/equalpay, via the Pacific Power mobile app, or by phone at 1-888-221-7070.

“The sooner you call, the better for Equal Pay,” said Coughlin. “If you wait until the higher bills have already come, your average will have gone up, too. This program also helps if you have high cooling costs in the summer.”

Here are low-cost tips you can use today to battle cold weather:

• Set your thermostat as low as comfortable, aim for 68 degrees. When you are asleep or out of the house, lower the temperature by another 10 degrees and this will reduce your energy usage by about 10 percent.
• Use space heaters sparingly and safely. Running a 1,500 watt portable heater 8 hours a day for 30 days can add an extra $30 to a monthly power bill in winter.
• Avoid the temptation to bump up the thermostat when it gets colder. That won’t get you to your desired temperature faster, you will just make your furnace run longer and use more energy.
• Improve your home’s heating and cooling systems by cleaning or replacing furnace filters and scheduling routine system maintenance to help air flow through the system more efficiently. Move furniture that is blocking intakes or heat registers.

You can save even more energy by taking a longer-range view of your energy use. In Oregon, Pacific Power teams up with Energy Trust of Oregon to offer energy efficiency consultation and cash incentives to upgrade your home and save energy and money. Visit bewattsmart.com or call the Energy Trust toll free at 1-866-368-7878 to learn more about qualifications and services.

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The Corrections Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training (BPSST) held a regular meeting on December 13, 2018. The meeting was held in the Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. 

To increase the public's trust, the Oregon legislature has mandated the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training establish minimum standards that are required to be met and maintained by Oregon's providers of public safety, including police officers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, telecommunicators (9-1-1), emergency medical dispatchers, public safety instructors, and OLCC regulatory specialists. The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training is responsible for certifying public safety professionals who meet all of the Board-established intellectual, physical and moral fitness standards and for denying, suspending or revoking the certification of those who do not meet or fall below these standards.

Note actions listed below are not final and parties involved in professional standards cases may request a context case hearing.

Meeting Recap

Baker, Jason DPSST #46912-Basic and Intermediate Corrections Certifications; Department of Corrections - WCCF - Recommendation to Board on Public Safety Standards and Training that certifications be revoked for Gross Misconduct and Dishonesty.

Brown, Shannon (aka Kuehl) DPSST #40076-Basic and Intermediate Corrections Certifications; Josephine County Sheriff’s Office - Recommendation to Board on Public Safety Standards and Training that certifications be revoked for Gross Misconduct, Disregard for the Rights of Others and Dishonesty.

Bryant, Lejeune DPSST #56580-Basic Corrections Certification; Department of Corrections – CCCF - Recommendation to Board on Public Safety Standards and Training that no action be taken against certification.

Gable, Robert DPSST #48832-Basic Corrections Certifications; Department of Corrections – OSP - Recommendation to Board on Public Safety Standards and Training that certification be revoked for Gross Misconduct.

Jones, Stephanie DPSST #49703-Basic Corrections Certification; Department of Corrections- SRCI - Recommendation to Board on Public Safety Standards and Training that certifications be revoked for Gross Misconduct and Dishonesty.

Kempas, Nicholas DPSST #56639-Application for Certification; Department of Corrections - TRCI - Recommendation to Board on Public Safety Standards and Training that certification not be denied.

McClendon, Reece DPSST #56137-Basic Corrections Certification; Douglas County Sheriff’s Office - Recommendation to Board on Public Safety Standards and Training that certification be revoked for Gross Misconduct and Dishonesty.

Muschek, Steven DPSST #46720-Basic, Intermediate and Advanced Correction Certifications; Washington County Sheriff’s Office – Case tabled due to lack of quorum.

Navarro, Paul DPSST #36388-Basic, Intermediate and Advanced Correction Certifications; Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office – Case pulled due to relinquishment of certifications.

Sharp, Billy DPSST #52472-Basic Corrections Certification; Department of Corrections-OSP - Recommendation to Board on Public Safety Standards and Training that certification be revoked for Gross Misconduct and Dishonesty.

Tracy, Christopher DPSST #51211-Basic Corrections Certification; Springfield Police Department – Case pulled due to relinquishment of certifications.

Vaughn, Sherill DPSST #18399-Basic and Intermediate Corrections Certifications; Marion County Sheriff’s Office - Recommendation to Board on Public Safety Standards and Training that certifications be revoked for Gross Misconduct and Dishonesty.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the BPSST Corrections Policy Committee is on February 12, 2019 @ 1:30 p.m.

## Background Information on the BPSST and DPSST ##

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.

Media Advisory

What: Researchers from Oregon State University (OSU) and Portland State University (PSU) will present key findings of studies on trends in Oregon’s long-term care settings on Dec. 17 in Salem.

Oregon Department of Human Services Aging and People with Disabilities program (APD) has commissioned these studies for each of the past four years. The research summarizes topics such as residents’ needs, rates and fees, facility policies, and staffing.

The quality and availability of long-term care options in Oregon are closely monitored by APD. The program licenses adult foster homes, assisted living, residential care and nursing facilities, including those designated for memory care. Demand for long-term care will continue to rise as the percentage of Oregon’s population that is 65 and older is expected to increase, according to the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis.

Researchers presenting at the event will include:

• Paula Carder, Ph.D., Interim Director of Institute on Aging at PSU and Associate Professor at the OHSU-PSU School of Public Health;
• Carolyn A. Mendez-Luck, Ph.D., M.P.H., and Jeff Luck, M.B.A., Ph.D.,
  Associate Professors, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University.

When: 2-3 pm, Monday, Dec. 17; presenters will share research highlights and analysis from 2-2:30 p.m. following by a question and answer session.

Options to join include phone, Skype and in-person in Salem: To join the meeting, please contact APD Communications Officer Elisa Williams at Elisa.A.Williams@state.or.us or 503-509-9604 for details.

 
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(Salem) – The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) has awarded three grants totaling nearly $120,000 to help develop workplace safety and health education and training programs.

The recipients are:

Northwest Forest Worker Center: Safety and Health for Latino Forest Workers

The nonprofit group will produce a training program to help Latino forest workers in southern Oregon prevent musculoskeletal disorders.

Forest workers lift heavy objects, walk on steep and uneven terrain, and engage in repetitive motions. Such activities put them at high risk of developing injuries and disorders that affect the body’s movement. Data show that bodily reaction – which includes musculoskeletal disorders – was the third-leading cause of injury among forest workers in 2017.

The training program will be interactive, engaging workers in discussions that relate to their own on-the-job experiences. The goal is to equip workers with best practices in preventing musculoskeletal disorders as they plant trees, thin forests, and pile brush.

Grant award: $40,000

Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association: Spanish First Hospitality Employee Handbook Template Tailored for Minority Employees

The association will develop an employee handbook designed for Spanish-speaking restaurant and hospitality employees and make it available in both print and digital formats. The project is intended to address the lack of such handbooks, which are often designed for workers who learned English as a first language.

By creating a culturally and linguistically appropriate employee handbook – accompanied by training – the association intends to increase communication and trust, and help Latino workers become more effective in their workplaces and reduce work-related injuries.

The association will evaluate the effectiveness of the project in several ways, including measuring the number of employers who choose to use the handbook and the percentage of businesses that identify improvements in minority employee retention and safety. 

Grant award: $39,963

SafeBuild Alliance: Strengthening Construction Safety Culture by Developing Front-Line Leaders

The nonprofit group will develop a training and outreach project that will engage construction companies and labor organizations in identifying and cultivating front-line leaders who are capable of improving workplace safety.

As the construction industry flourishes in Oregon – and as the number of retirements of front-line supervisors increases – the need to find, promote, and train potential leaders from the field of employees grows.

The training and outreach project will encompass several activities, including developing a methodology to identify emerging leaders; building on foundational safety leadership programs; and sharing findings and recommendations with the construction industry on the alliance’s website.

Grant award: $40,000

The Oregon Legislature launched the Occupational Safety and Health Education and Training Grant Program in 1990. Award recommendations are made by Oregon OSHA’s Safe Employment Education and Training Advisory Committee, an advisory group with members from business, organized labor, and government.

###

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.

Today, Keep Oregon Green, in partnership with the USDA Forest Service and the Oregon Department of Forestry, is launching the sale of a brand new Oregon license plate design. The plate will feature the iconic image of Smokey Bear set against a green forested backdrop and the words ‘Keep Oregon Green,' as a reminder of the need to protect Oregon's scenic landscapes from careless human-caused wildfires.

The release of the plate design and voucher sale coincides with a year-long, nationwide celebration of Smokey Bear’s 75th Anniversary in 2019. Keep Oregon Green will promote the license plate on social media using the hashtag “#DriveWithSmokey” each week until they sell 3,000 vouchers. The Keep Oregon Green Association will also partner with other fire-fighting and emergency response organizations to help spread the message.

"Each year, approximately two-thirds of Oregon's wildfires are human-caused and they are all completely preventable," says Keep Oregon Green's CEO, Kristin Babbs. “Keep Oregon Green has been a household slogan since its inception in 1941, and this message is more important now than ever before. Wildfire awareness opportunities like this will help ingrain it in Oregonian’s DNA.”

In 2018, the number of human-caused fires represented 79 percent of all ignitions. The leading culprits behind a number of these fires included illegal burning, driving poorly-maintained vehicles that spark fires, and failing to extinguish campfires properly. Other fire causes include power lines, mowing dry grass, fireworks, and smoking.

Keep Oregon Green runs annual campaigns aimed at reducing the number of these types of wildfires. The phrase "Keep Oregon Green" is prominently shown on road signs on major highways, television, radio and in print advertisements each year, with a strong message emphasis during the summer fire season.

To purchase a $40 voucher and contribute to Keep Oregon Green’s fire prevention message, visit drivewithsmokey.com. The Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will begin producing the license plates when 3,000 vouchers have been sold.

For more on wildfire prevention information and the Keep Oregon Green Association, visit www.keeporegongreen.org.

Portland, OR—The National Weather Service has issued flood watches for the central and north Oregon coast, the Coast Range of northwest Oregon, the central Willamette Valley, the greater Portland metro area, the central and western Columbia River Gorge, and the upper Hood River Valley areas for Monday, December 17 from 2 p.m. PST through Wednesday, December 19, 4 p.m.

Heavy rain can trigger landslides and debris flows in steep terrain, and the risk is higher in burn areas.

Find the latest information here: https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/or.php?x=1

Debris flows are rapidly moving, extremely destructive landslides. They can contain boulders and logs transported in a fast-moving soil and water slurry down steep hillsides and through narrow canyons. They can easily travel a mile or more. A debris flow moves faster than a person can run. People, structures and roads located below steep slopes in canyons and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk.

If your home, work, or route is in a watch area:

• Stay alert. Track the flood watch by radio, TV, weather radio or online. If told to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Listen. Unusual sounds might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together. A trickle of falling mud or debris may precede larger landslides. If you think there is danger of a landslide, leave immediately.
• Watch the water. If water in a stream or creek suddenly turns muddy or the amount of water flowing suddenly decreases or increases, this is a warning that the flow has been affected upstream. You should immediately leave the area because a debris flow may soon be coming downstream.
• Travel with extreme caution. Assume roads are not safe. Be alert when driving, especially at night. Embankments along roadsides may fail, sending rock and debris onto the road.

For more landslide and debris flow information: https://www.oregongeology.org/Landslide/debrisflow.htm

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Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was 3.9 Percent in November

Oregon’s unemployment rate edged up to 3.9 percent in November from 3.8 percent in October. Oregon’s unemployment rate has been close to 4 percent for the past two years. The U.S. unemployment rate held steady at 3.7 percent in both October and November.

In November, Oregon’s nonfarm payroll employment grew by 2,400 jobs, following a revised gain of 4,300 jobs in October. In November, professional and business services added 3,300 jobs and government added 700. Wholesale trade cut 900 jobs. No other major industry registered an over-the-month change of more than 600 jobs.

Oregon’s nonfarm payroll employment increased by 36,600 jobs, or 1.9 percent, since November 2017. In that time, construction remained the fastest growing industry, with a gain of 7,700 jobs, or 7.7 percent. Professional and business services also grew rapidly, adding 8,200 jobs, or 3.3 percent. Health care and social assistance added 4,700 jobs, or 2.0 percent. However, several of Oregon’s major industries slowed recently. Leisure and hospitality (+1,500 jobs, or 0.7%) expanded at less than half the rate of overall employment. And two industries declined over the year: retail trade ( 400 jobs, or -0.2%) and private educational services (-300 jobs, or -0.8%). 

Recent employment estimates for professional and business services indicate rapid expansion in this broad industry. All three of its component industries expanded in recent months. Growth over the past 12 months was led by administrative and waste services, which grew by 5,600 jobs, or 5.5 percent. Temporary help services companies and employee leasing firms continue to hire within employment services. Management of companies and enterprises grew by 2,100 jobs, or 4.4 percent, in the past 12 months. This industry consists of corporate headquarters and has grown rapidly over the past six years. Professional and technical services grew rapidly during 2010 through 2017, but slowed recently, adding just 500 jobs in the past 12 months. 

Next Press Releases
The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the November county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Thursday, December 27th, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for December on Tuesday, January 15th. 

Notes: 
All numbers in the above narrative are seasonally adjusted.

The Oregon Employment Department and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) work cooperatively to develop and publish monthly Oregon payroll employment and labor force data. The estimates of monthly job gains and losses are based on a survey of businesses. The estimates of unemployment are based on a survey of households and other sources.

The Oregon Employment Department publishes payroll employment estimates that are revised quarterly by using employment counts from employer unemployment insurance tax records. All department publications use this Official Oregon Series data unless noted otherwise. This month’s release incorporates the April, May, and June 2018 tax records data. The department continues to make the original nonfarm payroll employment series available; these data are produced by the BLS.

Effective with the January 2018 data, employment of Oregon’s approximately 17,000 home care workers are counted in private health care and social assistance instead of state government. The change was due to legislative action clarifying that for purposes of workforce and labor market information, home care workers are not employees of state government. The reclassification affects private sector and government monthly change figures for January 2018 and will affect over-the-year change figures through December 2018. It does not affect total payroll employment levels.

The PDF version of the news release, including tables and graphs, can be found at www.QualityInfo.org/press-release. To obtain the data in other formats such as in Excel, visit www.QualityInfo.org, then within the top banner, select Economic Data, then choose LAUS or CES. To request the press release as a Word document, contact the person shown at the top of this press release.

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

Equal Opportunity program — auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Contact: (503) 947-1794. For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, call 711 Telecommunications Relay Services.

Media Contact: Robb Cowie, 503-945-7849, obb.cowie@state.or.us">robb.cowie@state.or.us

Lori Coyner to return as state Medicaid director

Oregon's former state Medicaid director will return to that role January 28.

Patrick Allen, Oregon Health Authority director, said Lori Coyner's return comes at a critical time for the transformation of Oregon's Medicaid program, known as the Oregon Health Plan, which provides health care coverage for nearly 1 million people in Oregon. Allen announced the hire in a message to OHA employees today.

"Lori has more than 25 years of experience developing and implementing health policy and leading health care transformation in Oregon," Allen said. “She knows the history and vision of our transformation work and she will be an invaluable member of our team as move into implementing the next five years of our Coordinated Care Organization (CCO) model.”

In her previous work at OHA as state Medicaid director, Coyner played a pivotal role in securing federal renewal of Oregon’s Medicaid waiver. She also oversaw the resetting of actuarially sound and federally approved CCO rates and helped address the Oregon Health Plan’s budget shortfall for the 2017-2019 biennium.

Before she was Oregon's Medicaid director, Coyner was OHA's director of Health Analytics, where she developed an incentive program to pay CCOs for value and quality instead of volume. Most recently Coyner was a managing principal for the Portland-based Health Management Associates.

# # #

December 12, 2018

Contact: Allyson Hagen, 503-449-6457, allyson.hagen@state.or.us (media inquiries)

Pete Edlund, 503-931-8873, .m.edlund@state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

CCO Metrics and Scoring Committee meets December 14

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Health Authority’s CCO Metrics and Scoring Committee.

When: December 14, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Five Oak Building (formerly known as Lincoln Building), Suite 775, Transformation Center Training Room, 421 SW Oak St., Portland. The public also can attend by webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/7438627555801803523 and telephone conference line at 888-204-5984, access code 1277166.

Agenda: Welcome, consent agenda, and updates; public testimony from 9:20-9:30; depression screening and follow-up for 2019; update on 2019 quality pool amount; planning for 2020 measure set; break; finalize HPQMC recommendations; finalize 2019 work plan; adjourn.

For more information, please visit the committee's website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/ANALYTICS/Pages/Metrics-Scoring-Committee.aspx.

# # #

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

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

If you need help or have questions, please contact Pete Edlund at 503-931-8873, 711 TTY, .m.edlund@state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Dec. 13, 2018 - Salem, Ore. – If you purchased an Oregon Lottery Mega Millions ticket in Cottage Grove, it could be worth $3 million.

The winning Mega Millions numbers for the Nov. 30 draw were 25-28-40-43-63 and the Mega Ball was 19. The winning ticket matched five numbers but not the Mega Ball number, which is a $1 million prize.  In this instance, the player added the Megaplier option for an extra $1, which increases non-jackpot prizes by 2, 3, 4 or 5 times.
For Nov. 30 drawing the Megaplier was 3, meaning the player multiplied their $1 million prize by 3, increasing their prize to $3 million!

“The Lottery’s computer system indicates that this ticket was purchased on Nov. 18, well ahead of the winning drawing date. What that means is that it’s ticket with multiple drawings on it,” said Patrick Johnson, Public Information Specialist with the Oregon Lottery. “If you purchased a ticket with multiple draws, and you purchased it in Cottage Grove, 2018 may be ending with some excitement!”

Players can purchase Mega Millions tickets for up to 24 drawings. Players also have one year from the winning draw date to claim the prize. In this case, the ticket would need to be claimed before Dec. 2, 2019, since Nov. 30, 2019 falls on a Saturday.

Mega Millions is one of two multi-state lottery games the Oregon Lottery offers. You can play Mega Millions in 44 states plus the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each play costs $2. Jackpots start at $40 million, and the jackpot for the next drawing on Friday, Dec. 17 at 8 p.m. is $262 million.

Lottery officials recommend that you always sign the back of your tickets with each Oregon Lottery game you play, to ensure you can claim any prize you may win. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Prize winners of more than $50,000 should contact the Lottery office to schedule an appointment to claim their prize.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned nearly $12 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org

Rain is in the forecast throughout western Oregon for the next several days, with the potential for flooding in many areas. Oregon Office of Emergency Management (OEM) GIS coordinator, Daniel Stoelb, has created a helpful dashboard to see current forecasted stream gauge information. Check it out at https://arcg.is/TSyWv.   

This new dashboard shows the number many gauges in action state or higher, a map on which you can click points representing the stream gauges, and details that show the gauge information sorted by waterbody and location.

PORTLAND, Ore.—On Wednesday, December 12, 2018, a federal jury in Portland returned guilty verdicts against Harry Dean Proudfoot III, 78, formerly of Tigard, Oregon, for running a fraudulent gold mining investment scheme that he used to steal $3.2 million from 140 investors. Proudfoot was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering.

“Harry Proudfoot and his children made many promises to their investors—promises they never intended to fulfill. They now join a long list of financial criminals whose schemes were cut short by diligent investigators working on behalf of victims. Pursuing criminals who prey on unknowing investors is a top priority for federal law enforcement in Oregon,” said Billy J. Williams, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

“The FBI is committed to investigating fraud schemes and deceptive practices by those who can cause devastating and irreparable financial harm to the members of our community. Together with its law enforcement partners, the FBI is dedicated to protecting the interests of the American public, so they can both invest and lend with confidence,” said Renn Cannon, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon.

“Mr. Proudfoot and his children built a ‘house of cards’ with their false promises and when it collapsed, as these houses do, IRS-Criminal Investigation is proud to support its law enforcement partners to expose and bring to justice those responsible,” said IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Darrell Waldon.

According to court documents and information shared at trial, in 2008, Harry Proudfoot created 3 Eagles Research and Development, a company based in Tigard that he used from 2008 through 2012 to solicit investors for a purported goldmining operation in Ohio. Harry Proudfoot, along with his adult children, including co-defendant Matthew Proudfoot, falsely promised to use investors’ money to purchase mining equipment and conduct mining operations at two gravel pits in Ohio.

To entice investors, Proudfoot and his children offered high rates of return, typically 10% of gross revenues, payable once the mine became operational. They falsely told investors they had all the necessary legal and business requirements in place for the mining operation.

At the same time, Proudfoot and his children withheld important facts from investors including that Harry Proudfoot had received cease and desist orders from the States of Alaska and Oregon for selling unregistered securities through material misrepresentations in 1992, 1993, and 2003 and that Matthew Proudfoot had filed for bankruptcy in 2010. Rather than using investor money as promised they diverted it to their personal use, funding living expenses, cars, travel, credit card bills, medical payments, lulling payments and other expenses to keep the scheme afloat.

In 2011, the States of Washington and Colorado and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) began investigating the group for securities violations. Ultimately, the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon entered a judgment against Harry Proudfoot, Matthew Proudfoot and the 3 Eagles Research and Development Company in the SEC enforcement action.

Harry Proudfoot faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years’ supervised release on each count of wire fraud and 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years’ supervised release on each count of money laundering. He will be sentenced on April 3, 2019 before U.S. District Court Judge Michael H. Simon.

Co-defendant Matthew Proudfoot pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering on November 1, 2017. He will be sentenced on January 9, 2019.

The case was investigated by the FBI and IRS-Criminal Investigation, and prosecuted by Scott E. Bradford and John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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PORTLAND, Ore. – Gregory Rex Wilson, 52, of Portland, was sentenced today to 84 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release for distributing heroin and illegally possessing a firearm.

According to court documents, Wilson was part of a drug trafficking organization that transported heroin from El Monte, California to the Portland metropolitan area. The investigation revealed that Wilson was being supplied with heroin by “Chino Antrax,” later identified as co-defendant Pablo Flores. Flores had actively been trafficking heroin to Portland for more than a year. At the time of his arrest on December 12, 2016 in Portland, Wilson had 880 grams of heroin, 100 Xanax pills and a loaded Ruger 9mm pistol in his vehicle. Four additional firearms were later found in a second vehicle owned by Wilson, including one with an obliterated serial number.

On June 12, 2018, Wilson pleaded guilty in this case to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms. Three of Wilson’s co-defendants, Aaron Ray West, Ricardo Anguiano Cruz, Jr., and Jose Manuel Rodriguez, have also pleaded guilty to related charges. Flores awaits trial.

The case was investigated by the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF), FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Portland Police Bureau. It was prosecuted by Matthew J. Semritc, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

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PORTLAND, Ore., December 14, 2018—The Portland Business Journal recently recognized OnPoint Community Credit Union, the largest credit union in Oregon, as number five on the state’s “Most Admired Companies” list in the financial services category. The list, compiled through results from a survey conducted among CEOs across Oregon, evaluated companies on innovation, branding and marketing, quality of management, community involvement, and caliber of products and services.

OnPoint is the only credit union recognized among the top 10 in this year’s financial services category, which includes banks and wealth management firms from throughout Oregon.

“Thank you to the Portland business community for recognizing OnPoint’s commitment to exceptional service and giving back to our community,” said OnPoint President and CEO Rob Stuart. “It is truly an honor to be in the company of so many inspiring organizations.”

OnPoint increased its total membership in 2018 by over 20,000 to more than 360,000 members in Oregon and SW Washington.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving more than 360,000 members and with assets of $5.4 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union's membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 13 Oregon (Benton, Clackamas, Columbia, Crook, Deschutes, Jefferson, Lane, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Washington and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

PORTLAND, Ore., December 12, 2018— OnPoint Community Credit Union and the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) have announced the Fall winners of the 2018-2019 OnPoint Community Credit Union Academic All-State Program. This program awards students for outstanding achievement in the classroom.

The Academic All-State Award is awarded to all boys and girls teams in each OSAA-sanctioned activity that achieve a 3.0 or higher cumulative team grade point average. Each member of a winning team receives a commemorative decal and a certificate. Members of the top 10 schools in each activity of each classification receive additional recognition and the top school receives a plaque in honor of its team.

“OnPoint partnered with the OSAA because we are committed to advancing education and enrichment,” said OnPoint President and CEO Rob Stuart. “Congratulations to the winners of the Academic All-State Award for your continued excellence in your activities and in the classroom.”

The Academic All-State Award is part of OnPoint’s five-year partnership agreement with the OSAA, which includes the title sponsorship of the Oregon high school state championships. This partnership builds on OnPoint’s commitment to strengthen education by supporting students, schools and educators. OnPoint was founded by 16 schoolteachers in 1932 and has honored those roots in a variety of ways, including the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education.

“OnPoint’s commitment to education made the organization an ideal partner for the OSAA,” said Peter Weber, OSAA Executive Director. “Together, we are so proud of what the winners of the Academic All-State Award have accomplished and can’t wait to see what their future holds.”

The OSAA sponsors 118 state championships in 19 interscholastic activities including choir, dance/drill, football, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, volleyball, boys and girls cross country, boys and girls swimming, wrestling, cheerleading, baseball, softball, boys and girls track and field, boys and girls tennis, boys and girls golf, band, orchestra, solo music and speech.

Every season, schools and activity departments submit academic information for the Academic All-State Program. To learn more about the OnPoint Community Credit Union Academic All-State Program, view the winners or submit academic information, visit www.osaa.org/awards.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

About OnPoint Community Credit Union: OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving more than 357,000 members and with assets of $5.5 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union's membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 13 Oregon (Benton, Clackamas, Columbia, Crook, Deschutes, Jefferson, Lane, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Washington and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

ABOUT THE OREGON SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION

The Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) is a private non-profit, board-governed association comprised of 291 member high schools.  A member of the National Federation of State High School Associations, the OSAA annually sponsors 118 state championships in 19 sports and activities.  For more information, visit www.osaa.org or follow @OSAASports on social media.

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The Oregon Department of Education, in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, is pleased to announce the continuation of Oregon Regional Teacher of the Year to honor exemplary educators in every region of the state!

• Nominations are open statewide through January 31, 2019.
• Teachers will submit their applications by March 29, 2019.
• Oregon Education Service Districts will select a winner from their region.
• Regional Teachers of the Year will be honored across the state in May 2019!
• In September 2019 one of the Regional Teachers of the Year will be named the 2020 Oregon Teacher of the Year!

Regional Teachers of the Year will receive a cash prize of $500 and will be celebrated across the state. The 2020 Oregon Teacher of the Year will receive a $5,000 cash prize (with a matching $5,000 going to their school) and serve as a spokesperson and representative for all Oregon teachers.

Anyone can nominate a teacher!

All Oregonians are encouraged to nominate their favorite teacher today at:
oregonteacheroftheyear.org
 

Disaster responders with the local chapter of the Amwerican Red Cross were dispatched on Friday, December 14, 2018 at approximately 1400 hours in the 5700 block of  Ne Stephens St, in Roseburg, Or. The home disaster cause by high winds affected 1 adult.

The Red Cross provided resources to help address immediate basic needs of those afffected such as temporary housing, food, clothing, comfort kits including toiletry items, information on recovery resources such as health and mental health resources as needed. Additional information if available, may be obtained through the first respondering agency/fire department.

The Red Cross in Oregon and Southwest Washington (Cascades Region), helps an average of three families each 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 by completing an online form at www.redcross.org/GetAnAlarm to schedule an appointment.

                                            Hundreds of Consumers Complain to BBB After Being Scammed out of Money

Portland, Oregon – A phony business operating under the name Amelia Cotton Quilt Company and a Salem, Oregon address is scamming consumers across the country this holiday season.

BBB Northwest + Pacific is processing hundreds of complaints from people who say they paid for quilts but have yet to receive them. Most of the complainants’ report purchasing through a Facebook ad that directs them to the website www.Ameliacotton10.com. Amelia Cotton Quilt Company is not registered with the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office and its business address is a private residence in Salem.

BBB is giving Amelia Cotton Quilt Company an ‘F’ rating and issuing a Scam Alert after it failed to respond to multiple inquiries by investigators and consumers left with one less gift to give this holiday.

“Remember, purchasing with a credit card can give you more protection against fake businesses that don’t deliver,” says Dawn Johnson, Marketplace Manager. “And, always check out retailers at bbb.org before you shop.”

Amelia Cotton Quilt Company is believed to now be using the website www.sleepious.co. Other names and websites to watch out for are:

If you are a victim of this scheme, we want to hear about it. File a report at www.bbb.org/scamtracker. 

ABOUT BBB®:   ?For more than 100 years, the Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands,?and?charities they can trust. In 2017, people turned to BBB more than 160 million times for BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.2 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at?bbb.org. There are local, independent BBBs across the United States, Canada,?and?Mexico, including BBB Northwest & Pacific, which serves more than 15 million consumers in Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Montana, Hawaii, and Western Wyoming.?

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Now until Jan. 31, PACE will seek the best student-made videos around this concept: #STOPpredators. STOP stands for "Students Taking on Predators," and this initiative is a PACE student video contest on preventing boundary invasion and sexual harassment of students.

Oregon public high school students can submit a video and be considered for one of up to six $5,000 college scholarships. Winning entries may be shown during the annual PACE Day in Salem in April.

Videos must contain information on preventing boundary invasion and harassment of students and link to the statewide Safe Oregon tipline. Students are encouraged to keep the videos short and focus on production quality and emotional appeal. Final judging will take place by the end of April 2019.

Full contest rules, terms and conditions are available on the PACE website (http://bit.ly/PACE-STOP).

About PACE

The Oregon School Boards Association (OSBA) and Special Districts Association of Oregon (SDAO) formed the PACE property-casualty pool in 2006 so Oregon education entities could work together to keep Oregon students safe, reduce risks and conserve member resources.

Oregon Farm Bureau joined American Farm Bureau and farm and ranch families around the nation in applauding the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill by the U.S. House of Representatives today, after approval by the U.S. Senate yesterday. The bill will now make its way to the White House where President Trump is expected to sign it into law.   

The following statement may be attributed to Oregon Farm Bureau:

"After much debate, the 2018 Farm Bill passed the House of Representatives by a margin of 367-49, with 17 not voting. This comes on the heels of its passage yesterday by the Senate. Six of Oregon’s seven-member congressional delegation voted in favor of the bill.

“The legislation supports farmers and ranchers, protects crop insurance and conservation efforts, provides specialty crop programs, invests in efforts to expand foreign markets, protects animal health, and prioritizes agricultural research and rural development.

“The bill is critical to providing all stakeholders, including Oregon’s farmers, ranchers, and consumers, with consistent policy for the next five years, along with the many sectors and industries that rely on them.”

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Note to Editors: “Farm Bureau” is a registered trademark; please capitalize in all cases.

Oregon Farm Bureau (OFB) is a grassroots, nonpartisan, nonprofit, general farm organization representing the interests of farming and ranching families in the public and policymaking arenas. First established in Oregon at the county level in 1919 and the state level in 1932, Farm Bureau is organized in all 36 counties.

Oregon Farm Bureau President Sharon Waterman is an OFB Hall of Fame honoree and operates a Century Ranch raising sheep, cattle, and timber in Bandon. She is OFB’s 16th president.