Officials reported that a subject died in an apartment fire Saturday morning in Winston.

The fire occurred at the Blue Ridge Apartments at 100 SW Hart Ave.

Firefighters got a quick initial knockdown of the fire and conducted a primary search finding the subject deceased.  The incident was supported by Winston-Dillard Fire District, Douglas County Fire District No. 2, Roseburg Fire Department, and Lookingglass Fire Department with 23 firefighters - 6 fire engines, 1 ladder truck, and 3 command staff.

Douglas County Fire District No. 2 and the Oregon State Fire Marshal are investigating the fire.  

On May 30, 2023, detectives with the Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team (DINT) seized a kilo (2.2 pounds) of suspected Carfentanil being trafficked into Douglas County.  

41 year old Alma Adriana Fuentes of Live Oak, California, was contacted during the course of a traffic stop on Interstate-5 near Sutherlin. During the traffic stop, an Oregon State Police canine was applied to Fuentes’ vehicle and positively alerted to the presence of controlled substances.  

A search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of a kilogram (2.2 pounds) of suspected carfentanil.

Suspect interviews indicated the carfentanil was destined for Douglas County, but intercepted before it could reach it's final destination.  Fuentes was arrested by DINT detectives.

Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid which is 10,000 times more potent than morphine and 100 times more potent than fentanyl. DINT has seen a substantial increase in fentanyl (and fentanyl analogues such as carfentanil) entering our community which has resulted in numerous overdoses and deaths. This seizure is the second large seizure of suspected carfentanil in Douglas County and is a concerning trend due to the potency of the drug.  

Information provided by the DEA and CDC provides that “carfentanil is used as a tranquilizing agent for elephants and other large mammals. The lethal dose range for carfentanil in humans is unknown; however, carfentanil is approximately 100 times more potent than fentanyl, which can be lethal at the 2- milligram range, depending on route of administration and other factors.”  

To demonstrate the potency and dangers of this drug, we can use fentanyl as an example:

One kilogram of fentanyl = 1,000 grams or 1,000,000 milligrams.  Based on the information provided by the DEA and CDC in regard to a lethal dose of fentanyl (2 milligrams), this amount could be in excess of 500,000 lethal doses (1,000,000 milligrams divided by 2 milligrams).   To reiterate, in this case DINT seized a kilogram carfentanil, which is considered 100 times more powerful than the example given.  

These statistics are clearly shocking and nearly unimaginable, but please consider this is “lethal dosage amounts” not amounts which users may ingest during average use. Most users will obviously use less than a lethal dose each time they use.  However, when dealing with such small amounts of such a powerful drug, it easy to see how mistakes can be made.  This is also why it is important for people to abstain from drug use altogether, and to teach our youth the dangers of ingesting any unknown substances.  

Fentanyl and fentanyl analogues have now become the #1 hard drug seized by DINT.  This is the first time since DINT was formed in 1989 that methamphetamine has been surpassed in total seizures, by any other hard drug.

DINT is an interagency narcotics team comprised of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Roseburg Police Department, Oregon State Police, Bureau of Land Management, and Douglas County District Attorney’s Office. DINT has received funding support from the Douglas County Commissioners, the HIDTA initiative, and the Criminal Justice Commission.  

Media Availability - June 12 at noon - Dodge Bridge County Park - 72 Rogue River Dr, Eagle Point, OR 97524 TENTATIVE: Time and location may change so please RSVP with PIO Aaron Lewis (541) 531-8203 to get updates.

(Photos from previous years)

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. - During the week of June 12 through 16, Marine Law Enforcement officers from around the state will be learning and perfecting their drift boating skills on the Rogue River. Students will learn to swim in whitewater, study hydrodynamics, practice rescue techniques, navigate up to Class III whitewater, and operate in remote environments using drift boats, rafts, and catarafts.

“Navigating whitewater is a perishable skill and it requires constant training and practice so law enforcement can respond to emergencies quickly and confidently,” says Eddie Persichetti, Law Enforcement Training Coordinator for the Oregon State Marine Board. “Each day the students drift different sections of the Rogue River. As the week progresses, instructors build on the skills from the day before and then move on to more advanced skills with more difficult rapids throughout the week.”

Persichetti adds, “The key component to this training is the attention on reading white water. It’s incredibly important to see the whole run ahead vs. the next ten feet in front of the boat. This year, rivers statewide are exceptionally swift, high, and cold. Students will first learn self-rescue techniques in the water and then dewatering drills, all while improving their drift boat skills throughout the course.”

The training and experience the officers gain during drift boat school provides a strong foundation for when they return to their local waterways for patrol. “The goal is to develop the skill sets and confidence in officers because safety of everyone recreating on the water is our top priority,” Persichetti explains. “Oregon’s waterways are becoming more crowded. For those recreating on Oregon’s waterways, a simple task such as wearing a life jacket can mean the difference between a tragedy and going home that day. Please be safe, vigilant and wear it!”

Recreational boaters can expect to see law enforcement officers drifting on the Upper and Middle Rogue from Lost Creek Reservoir to Argo Canyon from June 12th through June 16th.

For more information about boating laws and regulations, visit Boat.Oregon.gov.

                                                                     ###

WHITE CITY, Ore. – A fire that started in White City in the area of Avenue E and Wilson Way is under control with firefighters mopping up. Fire District 3 and ODF Southwest Oregon District Firefighters are making significant progress and all LEVEL 3 evacuations have been lifted. When the fire started, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies went door to door to notify residents, but there is no further need for evacuations at this time.

Please avoid the area at this time due to the large amount of firefighting apparatus in the vicinity.

More information to follow.

JCSO Case 22-1879

GRANTS PASS, Ore. – A Grants Pass man is now in the Josephine County Jail on federal child sex crime charges. Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) began an investigation after receiving a report from the Wisconsin Rapids Police Department in Wisconsin of a child being sexually exploited through Facebook. Through further investigations, SOCET discovered additional child victims in Oregon, Wisconsin, and Louisiana. SOCET worked with Wisconsin Rapids Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) to identify the out-of-state victims, and the United States Attorney’s Office to build the federal case.  

The suspect, Brandon Cody Gale, 28, of Grants Pass, has been charged with one count of sexual exploitation and attempted sexual exploitation of children as well as one count of coercion and enticement of a minor. Gale was transferred to the Josephine County Jail on June 1^st from the Power River Correctional Facility in Baker City, Oregon where he was serving time on state charges for an unrelated incident. 

Gale found his victims by posing as a teenage boy on various social media sites, including Facebook and Snapchat. He then would coerce his underage victims into performing sexual acts. He stole a teenage male’s online photo (shown here) to interact with his victims. It should be noted, the teenage male in the photographs is a victim of identity theft and volunteered to release his images in the hopes it will help identify any other potential victims. Gale used the online account names of John Gunther, Marley Nukka, Antioch Baby, and Tony Montana. Investigators are looking for other potential victims. If you have any information, call the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) Tip Line at (541) 774-8333 and reference case number 22-1879.

SOCET enables local law enforcement agencies to collaborate with federal partners such as HSI, to effectively investigate and prosecute out-of-state suspects when they victimize children in our community. SOCET is a joint inter-agency task force started in June of 2020 to combat child exploitation and human trafficking. The task force consists of investigators from JCSO, Grants Pass Police Department, and HSI; as well as prosecutors from our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Jackson and Josephine County.

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The Lane County Sheriff’s Office received information this morning that 34-year-old Jason Scott Page was at a residence in the Elmira area.  Page is the suspect in the shooting that occurred on McDougal Ln. on 06/03/2023. 

At approximately 10:06am deputies observed Page as a passenger in a vehicle leaving the involved residence.  Deputies initiated a traffic stop at which time the vehicle pulled into a driveway in the 23000blk of W. Sheffler Rd. and came to a stop.

Page exited the vehicle and shot at deputies with a handgun.  Deputies returned fire.  No one was struck by the gunfire and Page fled on foot.  Deputies caught him in a nearby yard and he was taken into custody. 

No one was injured during this incident.

Page will be lodged at the Lane County Jail.  His specific charges are still being determined. 

Lane County Sheriff’s deputies are looking for the suspect in a shooting that occurred on Saturday at a residence in the 3900blk of McDougal Ln.  Deputies learned that during the course of a dispute at the location, 34-year-old Jason Scott Page shot the 35-year-old victim in the back. The victim was transported to an area hospital and is expected to survive. 

Page is described as a white male adult standing approximately 5’08” and weighing about 155lbs. He has brown hair and brown eyes. He has multiple tattoos on his chest, abdomen and left arm.  The weapon in this incident has not been recovered and Page is considered armed and dangerous.  

Page has active warrants for his arrest and anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is asked to call 911 and not approach him.

This is a test of the emergency communications system for Lincoln County Sheriff's Office. Below are the email message and voice call message distributed via our Lincoln Alerts system for the test today.

Had this been a real emergency, Lincoln County Emergency Management would use FlashAlert to communicate public messages to our media cooperators.

Lincoln Alerts Annual Test Media Release

Email Message:

The message you are receiving today is part of the countywide test of the Lincoln County emergency notification system, Lincoln Alerts.

We are distributing the annual test messages in the following order to ensure all features of our system are working correctly. You should receive separate messages on your different registered devices and may receive more than one message if you have multiple addresses in your Lincoln Alerts profile.

1. Social Media, Media Release (Flash Alert), and the Emergency Alert System (EAS) - public radio message.
2. Keywords – for community information updates; this is a separate from your Lincoln Alerts profile.
3. Email/Text/Lincoln Alerts Mobile App to Lincoln Alert Profiles/Web registration.
   1. If you did not receive this message via text to one of your mobile devices then check your Lincoln Alerts Profile to ensure you have the “SMS TEXT #” option with your mobile number included – if this field is not selected you will not receive a text message.
4. Cellular/landline voice calls (calls will start after 9:00 am to 1pm based on your addresses in your Lincoln Alerts profile).
   1. If you confirm the voice call test message on one of your devices, it will not go to the other devices that receive voice calls in your profile. However, if you have more than one address in your profile, you may receive a separate voice call for each address in your profile.
   2. If your phone number is also contained in another family member’s profile and they confirm the message it may not go to your phone number. We recommend that you do not duplicate phone numbers in other family member profiles – it could prevent you from receiving the notice if they confirm their message.

Lincoln Alerts Profile Wellness Check:

If you did not receive a notice to one of your devices by 1pm, we encourage you to log into your Lincoln Alerts profile to ensure your information is up to date.  We have a Lincoln Alerts Wellness Check (Lincoln Alerts Wellness Check - English) (Lincoln Alerts Wellness Check - Spanish) with tips on how to make sure you profile is up to date.

Lincoln Alerts Log In Page to Update/Delete Current Lincoln Alerts Profile or Retrieve Password:

• To update your Lincoln Alerts opt-in profiles click here

Lincoln Alerts User Guides:

• Lincoln Alerts - User guides are available for our Lincoln Alerts mobile app, how to update or create a new profile.

Lincoln Alerts Notification Page and Other Language Options:

• Bookmark our message portal page in your mobile phone/internet favorites to view future communications/notifications from Lincoln Alerts or to review messages in other languages.

Other Questions

• Call 541-265-0616

Voice Call Message: Good morning, Lincoln County Community Members, 

This call is part of the annual countywide test of the Lincoln County Emergency Notification System, Lincoln Alerts. This is only a test; the only action required is to confirm this message. 

We would like to remind our community members to check the information they have in their Lincoln Alerts opt-in profile to ensure their address, phone numbers, email, and/or text information is correct. You can find this information on the Lincoln County website by searching for Lincoln Alerts.

If you received multiple phone calls from Lincoln Alerts today it may be because:

• This phone number is in more than one Lincoln Alerts profile, perhaps other family members have this phone number in their profile.
• Or you may have more than one address in your Lincoln Alerts profile – each address may receive a test message. 

If you have any questions, you can contact County Emergency Management at 541-265-0616, again that number is 541-265-0616.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office thanks you for your participation in today’s annual test.

Lincoln Alerts website - Lincoln Alerts - Emergency Notifications & Community Information | Lincoln County, OR

###

Respectfully submitted, 

Virginia "Jenny" Demaris
Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Emergency Management Division
Emergency Manager
Phone 541-265-0616
vdemaris@co.lincoln.or.us 

 

OUTDOOR GRILLING SAFETY

Grilling season is here and there's nothing like grilling outdoors on nice day. A BBQ or grilling party can be the perfect thing to bring the neighborhood together. There are many different types of grills and some unique tips for each. For your next cookout, use these tips from the National Fire Protection Association to help prevent injuries and accidental fires.

• Propane and charcoal grills should ONLY be used outdoors. They should be placed well away from the home, deck railings, and overhanging tree branches.
   
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area. This helps prevent the grill from being knocked over and helps prevent burns and other injuries. 
   
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill and trays below the grill.
   
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
   
• Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using your grill each year. You can do this by applying a light soap and water solution to the outside of the hose. If there is a leak, the gas will cause it to release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, turn off the grill. If the leak does not stop, get it serviced by a professional before using it again.
   
• If you smell gas while you're cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do NOT move the grill.
   
• If you use starter fluid with your charcoal grill, use only charcoal starter fluid; always keep it out of the reach of children and pets and keep it away from heat sources.
   
• When you are finished grilling, let the charcoals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container. Do not put hot coals in your garbage bin or another container. This can start a fire. 
   
• Most importantly: NEVER leave your grill unattended.
   

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

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NATIONAL PET PREPAREDNESS MONTH
 

June is National Pet Preparedness month and is the perfect time to review your emergency plans for your furry, scaley, and feathery family members. Keep your pets and livestock prepared for emergencies by taking these steps:

• Create and practice your emergency plan for pets and livestock.
• Take inventory of and replace expired emergency supplies such as pet food, medications, and water.
• Stay informed of local hazards and emergencies. Take appropriate steps to keep your animals safe and be prepared to evacuate them with your household.

Plan for Pets

• Take animals with you if you need to evacuate. Only as a last resort should animals be left behind.
• Create a plan with neighbors, friends, or relatives to evacuate your pet if you are not able to do so.
• Animals may run away or hide during an emergency. If your area is in a level one or higher evacuation warning, put your pet’s collar or harness on and keep them in a secure room. Doing this will allow you to grab them quickly if you need to evacuate.
• Many emergency shelters cannot accept animals. Before disaster strikes, find out which hotels/shelters allow animals or which friends outside of the area will be able to help.
• Be sure ID tags are on collars and consider a microchip.
• Keep your dog’s license (legally required) and cat’s license (recommended) updated. This helps animal get reunited with their families faster.
• Keep your pets’ vaccinations and ID tags up to date. Keep a copy of these documents in your family’s Go Bag.
• Prepare a pet emergency kit with leashes, collars, portable carriers, water, food, medications, sanitation materials, immunization records, first-aid kit, and photos to prove ownership.
• Don’t leave pets in vehicles, tethered, or crated without you.
• If you have to leave your animals at home, keep them inside a secure area. Leave at least a 10-day supply of dry food and water. Put signs on windows and doors indicating the number and type of animals inside and your contact information.
• Be aware that your pet’s behavior may change after a crisis. They may become more aggressive or self-protective.

Plan for Livestock

• If your area is in a level 2 or higher evacuation warning, evacuate with your livestock now. Begin preparing your livestock in a level 1 evacuation warning for transport. This will give you more time to safely secure your animals and get trailers or other equipment on the road before it is too late.
• Post emergency contact numbers on barns and/or pasture fences.
• Write your phone number on your stock with a permanent marker if you must release them.
• Have a supply of feed at a separate location.
• Involve family and neighbors in an evacuation plan.
• Make a kit with leads, halters, first aid, quieting hoods, water, photos, and a copy of your ownership papers.

More Resources for Pet and Livestock Emergency Planning can be found: 

• Lincoln County Emergency Management Recorded Webinar:  Animals: Pets and Livestock Preparedness - Wildfire Presentations 2021
• Ready.gov: Prepare Your Pets for Disasters
• Red Cross: Pet Disaster Preparedness

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

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Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports on April 20, 2023, at 1:37 p.m., the Linn County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received several 911 calls regarding a motor vehicle crash in the 38000 block of Scravel Hill Road.  It was reported that one or two vehicles were involved in the crash and at least two people were injured.

Paramedics from the Jefferson Fire Department and multiple law enforcement personnel responded to the crash and found one vehicle involved in the crash. Deputies investigated and determined a 2016 A7 Audi, operated by Nicole Carey, 36, of Albany, was traveling south on Scravel Hill Road near Cricket Lane when it left the roadway striking a tree. Witnesses described the Audi traveling at a high rate of speed and passing a vehicle when it left the roadway. 

First responders arrived and found a passenger, Dallas Welsh, 42, of Hubbard, non-responsive. Life saving measures were attempted. Welsh was pronounced deceased on scene. Carey was transported to Albany General Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. 

The investigation is ongoing, but speed appears to be a factor in the crash. Linn County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Jefferson Fire Department, Salem Police Department, Oregon State Police, Linn County Medical Examiner’s Office and Linn County Road Department. Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to call Detective Kyle Connelly at (541) 967-3950.   

UPDATE

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports on June 8, 2023, detectives arrested Nicole Carey in connection with a motor vehicle crash in the 38000 block of Scravel Hill Road on April 20, 2023 in which her passenger, Dallas Welsh, was killed.  Nicole stated to investigators on the day of the crash she was unsure of her speed at the time of the crash, but she felt driving even 10 mph over the posted speed limit (of 45 mph) was too fast due to the weather and road conditions. After a thorough investigation, it was determined that Nicole Carey was operating the 2016 A7 Audi and just prior to the crash, passed a vehicle in a non-passing area while traveling over double the posted speed limit. 

Nicole Carey was arrested for Manslaughter in the second degree and lodge in the Linn County Jail.    

On Wednesday June 7th Marion County deputies attempted to make a traffic stop on a vehicle which then fled. Marion County deputies as well as other local law enforcement agencies then pursued the vehicle throughout the Salem and Keizer area. Ultimately a Marion County deputy performed a PIT maneuver in order to finally stop the vehicle which then led to the arrest of Brent Erickson. Mr. Erickson was lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges: Coercion, Assault 4, Harassment, Felony Elude, and Attempted Assault on a Public Safety Officer. 

The Marion County Sheriff's Office would like to thank the Oregon State Police and the Keizer Police Department for their assistance in resolving this situation. 

NEWS RELEASE

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Stop Poaching campaign

Contact:       Media: osppio@osp.oregon.gov

              To report tips: TIP Line: 800-452-7888 or OSP (677) from mobile

Date:     6/9/23

Subject:  Torn fins, embedded hooks mark spawning salmon and steelhead returning to Oregon hatcheries. 

SALEM, Ore. — OSP F&W Troopers discovered fish with embedded hooks, sliced fins, circular scabs, and other evidence of illegal tactics, while assisting ODFW hatchery staff during the spring salmon spawning season.  

Snagging occurs when a person hooks, or attempts to hook, a fish anywhere on its body other than inside the mouth. Although snagging is an unlawful practice with steep consequences, many people still engage in this unethical behavior, according to OSP F&W Trooper Cameron Jamison. 

“Indicators that a person may be attempting to snag fish include quickly and repeatedly ripping large lengths of line through the water, repeated yanking of the fishing rod from water lever to over the shoulders or head and failing to release fish which have been hooked anywhere on their fins or body,” Trooper Cameron said.   

Evidence of snagging and other injuries becomes apparent during annual collection processes, when hatchery workers collect and sort salmon and steelhead for spawning. 

During the collection process, hatchery staff, with assistance from OSP F&W Troopers, check for tags that indicate when and where each fish was released as a smolt, along with other tracking information. The data from these collections is used to determine the health of the fish populations and to assist in determining future rules and regulations. 

Salmon and Steelhead then go into holding ponds until the hatchery accumulates the number of fish necessary to repopulate that hatchery and river system. When hatchery workers reach a target number of salmon and steelhead, they contain the fish in holding ponds for spawning. 

Steelhead in good condition after spawning are released back into the lower sections of the same river in hopes that they will head back out to the ocean and have another opportunity to return to the hatchery next year to spawn again. Salmon and steelhead at the end of their lifecycles are placed in streams to decompose as part of the stream enrichment program. 

By the time salmon and steelhead return to the hatchery they’ve typically reached the end of their lifecycle. Seventy percent of salmon and steelhead harvested In Oregon originate from a hatchery, and ninety five percent of the salmon and steelhead harvested in the Willamette River originate from a hatchery.  In 2022, hatcheries estimated returns of about 142,000 salmon and 27,000 steelhead. 

The Stop Poaching Campaign educates the public on how to recognize and report poaching. This campaign is a collaboration among state agencies, sportsmen and other conservationists, landowners, and recreationists to engage the public in combatting Oregon’s poaching problem. Our goal is to: Incentivize reporting on wildlife crimes through the TIP Line; Strengthen enforcement by increasing the number of OSP Fish and Wildlife Troopers; and Support prosecution in becoming an effective deterrent. The campaign helps to protect and enhance Oregon’s fish and wildlife and their habitat for the enjoyment of present and future generations. Contact campaign coordinator Yvonne Shaw for more information. Yvonne.L.Shaw@odfw.oregon.gov.

If you observe behavior that you believe to be snagging, please contact Oregon State Police Fish & Wildlife at OSP (677) or the Turn-In-Poachers (TIP) Line at: (800) 452-7888.”

#            #            #

On Monday, June 5, 2023, at approximately 6:42 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-101, near milepost 284, in Coos County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Volkswagen Jetta, operated by Tomas Iglesias Olivas (59) of Coos Bay was travelling northbound when it veered across the center line and collided at an angle with a blue Chevrolet Equinox, operated by Jennifer Dawn Jordan (43) of Langlois, which was travelling southbound. Roadway evidence indicated the Jetta was negotiating a curve and attempted to correct its path of travel which caused it to veer into the oncoming lane. 

The operator of the Jetta (Olivas) was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced deceased at the scene. 

The operator (Jordan) and passenger, Ethan Blaine Dickenson (18) of Langlois, of the blue Equinox were transported by Bay Cities Ambulance to Bay Area Hospital for treatment of serious injuries. 

OSP was assisted by the Coos County Medical Examiner, Coos County Sheriff's Office, Coos Bay Police Department, Southern Oregon Public Safety Chaplains, Sixes River Fire and Rescue, Bandon Fire, and ODOT.

On Monday, June 5, 2023, at approximately 3:30 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 33, in Jackson County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Tesla Model S, operated by Shawn Douglas Kroll (29) of Oakley (CA), was traveling northbound on I-5, near milepost 33, when for an unknown reason the vehicle drifted off of the roadway and onto the shoulder. The vehicle drove through a fence, struck a tree, and caught fire. 

The operator (Kroll) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The roadway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office, Central Point Police Department, Fire District 3, and ODOT.

On Monday, May 29, 2023, at 10:24 PM, a shooting was reported on Interstate 5 northbound near milepost 124, in Douglas County.  Oregon State Police detectives developed a suspect in the case: Ryan Lucas MacArt (33), of Winston, OR. 

On Friday, June 2, 2023, with assistance from OSP SWAT, detectives arrested MacArt for Attempted Assault 1, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Menacing. MacArt was lodged at the Douglas County Jail. 

At the time of the shooting, MacArt was an occupant in a white, 2004 Honda Pilot bearing Oregon license plate 239NRX.  This vehicle was also involved in ramming the victim’s vehicle and will have driver’s side damage.  The Honda Pilot has not been located by investigators and assistance from the public is being requested in order to locate the vehicle. 

Anyone with information about the Honda Pilot’s whereabouts is requested to contact the Oregon State Police at OSP and reference Case # SP23-159247. Image below not actual vehicle but for reference only.

Investigators are unable to release further information at this time.

On Friday, June 2, 2023, at approximately 8:53 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 126, near milepost 13, in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Toyota pickup, operated by Frederick Albert Dawson (40) of Eugene, was traveling eastbound on 126E, near milepost 13, when the operator attempted to make a left turn into a campground. A black Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Sean Michael Lenninger (46) of Coquille, was traveling eastbound behind the white Toyota and attempted to pass the pickup on the left. The motorcycle clipped the front driver side of the pickup and left the roadway.  

The motorcycle operator was declared deceased at the scene by medical personnel.  

The operator of the Toyota was transported by medics to the University District Hospital in Eugene with minor injuries. 

The highway was impacted for approximately 1 hour during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by McKenzie Fire and ODOT.

At 2:49 p.m. on June 4, 2023, Roseburg Fire Department personnel responded to a reported residential structure fire at 1912 SE Kane Street.  Douglas County Dispatch received a report of residential home on fire with smoke and flames visible at the front of the residence.  The reporting party stated all residents and animals had evacuated the residential structure.   

Firefighters arrived on scene to find smoke and flames coming from the left, front corner of the home in an open porch area of the residence.  Firefighters also found the fire had spread to a nearby vehicle that was located in the driveway of the residence.

Firefighters quickly extinguished both the vehicle and structure fire.  They also completed a primary and secondary search as well as overhaul.  Both the primary occupants of the home and their animals were able to evacuate the home. One vehicle suffered both fire and water damage.  The primary home sustained extensive structural and water damage.  Two adults, one dog, and two ferrets were displaced due to the fire; however, none of the adults or animals were injured in the fire. 

The cause of the fire is under investigation.  Sixteen firefighters assisted with firefighting operations.  Other agencies assisting with the fire included Douglas County Fire District #2, Umpqua Valley Ambulance, Pacific Power, Avista Utilities, Roseburg Police Department, and the American Red Cross.

The Roseburg Fire Department would like to remind everyone of the importance of working smoke alarms and ensuring you have the appropriate number of smoke alarms installed in the home.  Remember to make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area and in every bedroom.  The Roseburg Fire Department recommends encourages homeowners to consider a home fire sprinkler system for increased protection.

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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE:  June 8, 2023

Man arrested after altercation and menacing incident at downtown park

Salem, Ore. — Salem Police officers arrested a 37-year-old man late last night after an altercation and incident of menacing at Riverfront Park.

Shortly before 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 7, patrol officers responded to the downtown park on a call of a man striking a woman and brandishing a gun.

Officers arrived as the male suspect was attempting to drive out of the park. He was taken into custody without incident.

The officers determined the suspect, Arthur Billy Hill, age 37, was in an altercation with two women known to Hill. A park user attempted to intervene when a gun was pointed at them. The gun was located and seized.

Hill, who is lodged at the Marion County Jail, faces several charges including menacing, harassment, unlawful use of a weapon, and possession of a firearm. He is scheduled to be arraigned at 2:30 p.m. today at the Marion County Criminal Court Annex.

# # #

On June 4th at 1045 am, Sweet Home Fire District was dispatched to a fire on Berlin Road. Due to windy conditions a burn pile got away from the homeowner, catching a nearby shed and overhead trees on fire. The fire was quickly extinguished using a command brush rig, heavy brush engine and water tender. This is a great reminder as to why all open burning is prohibited as of June 3rd. You should always call the Linn County Burn Message (541-451-1904 and press 1) prior to burning; however we do not expect burn season to reopen until after the fall. Sweet Home Fire District thanks the Oregon Department of Forestry and Linn County Sherriff's Office for their support on scene and Lebanon Fire District for providing standby coverage in the event that another call for service came in during this event.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018

Scott Salazar joins Pacific Power as regional business manager for Lane, Linn and Marion Counties

PORTLAND, OR. (May 23, 2023) — Scott Salazar is joining Pacific Power as its new regional business manager for Lane, Linn and Marion counties in Oregon. 

In his new role, Scott will be fostering government and community relationships and resolving key issues affecting those communities, as well as managing the accounts of Pacific Power’s large commercial and industrial customers in the area.

Born and raised in Marion County, Scott has a strong background in customer service, account management and economic development. In this role he will maintain the company’s relationships in his communities of responsibility and manage the accounts of Pacific Power’s large commercial and industrial customers in the area.

“It is an honor to be chosen, and I recognize that this role comes with a great deal of responsibility,” Salazar said. “I look forward to spending more time in each community so I can learn more about what matters to them and how I can support them through Pacific Power.”

Salazar joins the team after working as an economic developer for Marion County, where he worked to increase business opportunities for the area. 

“My working to support economic development made it clear the importance of affordable, reliable, sustainable power to every community’s quality of life and prosperity,” said Salazar. “I’m excited to strengthen Pacific Power’s relationships with our customers and communities.”

Salazar will be the main source of contact for local government, community and business organizations. He joins a team of managers who cover Pacific Power’s service area.

“We worked hard to find the right person for this role, and Scott possesses the experience, education and temperament to bring value to Marion, Linn and Lane Counties,” said Alan Meyer, director of commercial accounts and community relations. “This area has a special place in my heart, and I know that it’s in good hands with Scott.”

About Pacific Power 

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, thermal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net. 

SALEM, Oregon – The Oregon Army National Guard promoted Brig. Gen. Gregory T. Day to the rank of major general in a ceremony, June 9, 2023, at the 41st Infantry Division Armed Forces Reserve Center, Camp Withycombe in Clackamas, Oregon. Maj. Gen. Michael E. Stencel, The Adjutant General of the Oregon National Guard, presided over the promotion ceremony with Day's family, friends, and fellow service members in attendance. He assumes duties as the Special Assistant to the Combatant Command, NORAD/NORTHCOM for National Guard Matters and Liaison to the Chief, National Guard Bureau. Day has a long and accomplished career with the Oregon Army National Guard, culminating in his most recent assignment as Commander, Land Component Command.

“The reason we're here today is an incredible opportunity, and this is a position he is ideally suited for. ” said Maj. Gen. Stencel.

General Day’s prior assignments include Commander, Joint Domestic Operations Command, with a dual hat position as Deputy Chief of Staff Operation/G3 (Wartime), 8th Army, U.S. Army Forces Korea. Additionally, he previously served as Army National Guard Assistant to the Commander, United States Army -Alaska ("DCG-NG"). He is an accomplished Joint Qualified Officer Level III and a leader with demonstrated outstanding service at every level of command and staff with overwhelming success. In his civilian job, Day is a highly recognized attorney and partner in a well-established law firm in Grants Pass. His combat experience and strategic understanding highlight his ability to serve in this new position.

“I am honored to be selected for this new position, but a bit melancholy to be leaving all the outstanding soldiers and airmen that continue to serve here in Oregon,” said Maj. Gen. Day.

-30-
 

Photo captions
230609-Z-CH590-016: Oregon Army National Guard Maj. Gen. Gregory T. Day (center) pinned with his new "two-star" rank by his wife, Linda, and stepson Cody (left), during a promotion ceremony, June. 9, 2023, at the 41st Infantry Division Armed Forces Reserve Center, at Camp Withycombe in Clackamas, Oregon. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department  Public Affairs) 

230609-Z-CH590-021: Oregon Army National Guard Maj. Gen. Gregory T. Day takes the oath of office, administered by Maj. Gen. Michael Stencel, Adjutant General, Oregon, during a promotion ceremony, June. 9, 2023, at the 41st Infantry Division Armed Forces Reserve Center, at Camp Withycombe in Clackamas, Oregon. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department  Public Affairs)

230609-Z-CH590-034: Oregon Army National Guard Maj. Gen. Gregory T. Day speaks to an audience of family, friends, coworkers and military members during his promotion ceremony, June. 9, 2023, at the 41st Infantry Division Armed Forces Reserve Center, at Camp Withycombe in Clackamas, Oregon. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department  Public Affairs)

PR 07 23                                                                    

BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
                                                                      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday, June 8, 2023
                                                                                  CONTACT: Summer Goodwin, BPA, 503-230-3158
                                                                                                                                            or 503-230-5131

BPA names Marcus Harris permanent chief financial officer

Portland, Ore. – The Bonneville Power Administration has named Marcus Harris as executive vice president and chief financial officer starting June 18 on a permanent basis. Harris served in this role on an acting basis since 2021. As CFO, Harris oversees the setting of BPA’s approximate $1 billion annual capital budget and nearly $4 billion expense budget, as well as the agency’s accounting, debt management, cash management and investor activities.

“Marcus has played a crucial role in strengthening BPA’s financial health, most notably through his leadership in the development of the 2018 and 2022 financial plans,” said Administrator and CEO John Hairston. “His financial prowess will continue to be an asset as we work toward ambitious cost-management and financial resilience objectives.”

Harris previously served as deputy chief operating officer, leading critical cross-agency initiatives and aligning the many agency organizations under the authority of the chief operating officer. In his prior role as budget officer and manager of Financial Planning and Analysis, he led the development of capital and expense spending levels for Integrated Program Reviews for both BP20 and BP-22 rate cases.

“I remain committed to working across Bonneville to execute on our financial plan,” said Harris. “Our strong partnerships with customers and stakeholders helped us hone in on our financial objectives and has set us on a solid course to remain a competitive power and transmission provider over the long term.”

Harris joined BPA in 2009 as a financial analyst. He has a bachelor’s degree from Vanguard University, a master’s in business administration, summa cum laude, from Willamette University, and a PhD in systems science from Portland State University.

About BPA

The Bonneville Power Administration, headquartered in Portland, Oregon, is a nonprofit federal power marketer in the U.S. Department of Energy that sells wholesale, carbon-free hydropower from 31 federal dams in the Columbia River Basin. It also markets the output of the region’s only nuclear plant. BPA delivers this power to more than 140 Northwest electric utilities, serving millions of consumers and businesses in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, western Montana and parts of California, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage power lines and 261 substations, and provides transmission service to more than 300 customers. In all, BPA provides nearly a third of the power generated in the Northwest. To mitigate the impacts of the federal dams, BPA implements a fish and wildlife program that includes working with its partners to make the federal dams safer for fish passage. It also pursues cost-effective energy savings and operational solutions that help maintain safe, affordable, reliable electric power for the Northwest. www.bpa.gov

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Medford, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seeking public input to inform a new land use plan for the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. The plan update would protect important biological, historic, and public resources, including the objects of scientific and historic interest identified in Presidential Proclamation 7318 and Presidential Proclamation 9564, which established and expanded the monument.

The new plan will support resilient landscapes in order to enhance resistance to large-scale disturbances and reduce fire risk to important monument objects and nearby communities. The Notice of Intent published in the Federal Register on June 9 and is available here: federalregister.gov/d/2023-12311

“This new resource management planning process provides an opportunity to learn from our past planning efforts and ensure the 113,500 acres of public lands in the monument receive the proper protections,” said BLM Oregon/Washington State Director Barry Bushue. “The Presidential Proclamations provide a framework for managing the monument, and the public can help us determine the best way to implement them. Input at this stage will help inform the issues considered during the planning process and the decisions made in the final resource management plan.”

The comment period will provide the public with an important opportunity to help with the resource management planning process. The BLM welcomes public input to identify critical management concerns, which can help determine the scope of the environmental review, including issues for analysis and alternatives development. Future public meetings will also provide the public with an opportunity to speak with resource specialists and to submit written comments.

There will be three in person and one virtual scoping meetings. Members of the public will have an opportunity to ask meet with specialists to learn more about the planning effort. The dates and cities of the meetings are: 

• June 26, 2023 4-7 p.m. PT. Klamath Community College, Building 4, Commons. 7390 S. 6^th St, Klamath Falls, OR 97603
• June 28, 2023 4-7 p.m. Pinehurst School, 15337 Hwy 66, Ashland, OR 97520
• June 29, 2023 4-7 p.m. Abraham Lincoln Elementary School Cafeteria, 3101 McLoughlin Dr, Medford, OR 97504 
• July 10, 2023 6-7 p.m. Virtual Meeting. Register at: https://blm.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJItc-mopzIiGZMgiNwtsnzbi4gZ99P_rtw 

Written comments may also be submitted through the following methods:  

• Website: https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2023675/510  
• Mail: ATTN: Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument Planning, 3040 Biddle Road, Medford, OR 97504 

The public can submit written comments concerning the scope of the analysis, potential alternatives, identification of relevant information and studies, and nomination of areas of critical environmental concern. Comments must be received by August 8 or 15 days after the last public meeting, whichever is later. 

For more information or questions, contact the CSNM RMP Team at (458) 246-8861 or lm_csnm_rmp@blm.gov">blm_csnm_rmp@blm.gov

-BLM-

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

Salem, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management will not open Yellowbottom Campground during the 2023 season due to several. damaged large trees that pose a risk to people camping.

The 13-acre campground is about 20 miles northeast of Sweet Home, nestled along Quartzville Creek in a stand of Douglas fir. It’s a popular camping spot, where visitors can sleep below giant trees that reach 200 to 300 feet tall and more than 5 feet in diameter. Many of these trees are reaching the end of their expected lifespan. BLM managers have decided to keep the site closed due to the number of potentially hazardous trees in and around the campground.

“We understand Yellowbottom is a special place and provides a unique camping experience,” said Amanda Hoffman, Field Manager for the BLM Cascades Field Office. “Unfortunately, these large trees are aging to a point where they put the safety of visitors at risk. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we consider next steps for this recreation site.”

Earlier in the season, officials  announced a delayed opening to assess the situation. BLM staff will continue extensive monitoring and assessment of the damaged and aging trees. The day-use area along the river of Yellowbottom Special Recreation Management Area remains open. 

-BLM-

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—Three Honduran nationals are facing federal drug trafficking charges today after their supply of illicit fentanyl was linked to a fatal overdose in Portland.

Manuel Velasquez-Estrejo, 38, Jorge Rivera-Nunez, 27, and Dennis Palma-Hurbina, 23, have been charged by federal criminal complaint with conspiring to possess and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl.

According to court documents, on the morning of June 7, 2023, a sheriff deputy from the Washington Interagency Narcotics Team (WIN) responded to the scene of a fatal overdose on West Burnside Street in Portland where a deceased victim had been found by her adult son. The victim’s son told investigators that he and his mother had recently purchased around 100 fentanyl pills for $200 from a person later determined to be Velasquez-Estrejo. Later the same day, law enforcement arrested Velasquez-Estrejo in possession of approximately 1,000 multicolored fentanyl pills and two ounces of powdered fentanyl. They also located a motel room key on Velasquez-Estrejo’s person.

Further investigation revealed that Velasquez-Estrejo was staying at a motel on Northeast 82^nd Avenue in Portland with two associates identified as Rivera-Nunez and Palma-Hurbina. Investigators surveilled the motel property and arrested Rivera-Nunez and Palma-Hurbina as they were leaving their room. A search of the room returned more than six pounds of powdered fentanyl, 11,295 multicolored counterfeit Oxycodone pills containing fentanyl, and half a pound of methamphetamine.

All three defendants made their first appearances in federal court today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Youlee Yim You. They were detained pending further court proceedings.

This case was jointly investigated by WIN, the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Interdiction Task Force (HIT), Portland Police Bureau, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott M. Kerin and Certified Law Student Kara Blatt for the District of Oregon

WIN includes representatives from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Beaverton and Hillsboro Police Departments, Oregon National Guard Counter Drug Program, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and HSI.

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

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A drug trafficker was sentenced to federal prison today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl that led to the fatal overdose of a Hillsboro, Oregon man in February 2021.

Gerardo Corrales-Aragon, 30, whose place of residence is unknown, was sentenced to 150 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, on February 3, 2021, a 25-year-old man was found deceased by his parents at their home in Hillsboro after he consumed a counterfeit Oxycodone pill containing fentanyl. In less than three weeks, law enforcement uncovered a four-person drug distribution chain whose illicit actions led to the young man’s death. Investigators identified Corrales-Aragon as the individual responsible for transporting the deadly counterfeit pills from California to Oregon for distribution in and around Portland.

On February 23, 2021, law enforcement arrested Corrales-Aragon as he was leaving a local hotel to deliver fentanyl and methamphetamine in exchange for cash. Investigators found 4,000 fentanyl pills and six pounds of methamphetamine in Corrales-Aragon’s backpack and a loaded 9mm “ghost gun” in his waistband. Corrales-Aragon admitted to selling counterfeit pills to the Hillsboro victim’s drug supplier and possessing a firearm for his own protection while trafficking drugs. By the time of his arrest, Corrales-Aragon had been working with Mexican drug cartels to distribute drugs in the U.S. for more than half his life.

On March 16, 2021, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 13-count indictment charging Corrales-Aragon and four others with conspiring with one another to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and other related offenses.

On March 6, 2023, Corrales-Aragon pleaded guilty and agreed to a sentencing enhancement that his fentanyl distribution resulted in the death of the Hillsboro victim.

This case was investigated by the Portland Police Bureau, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and Hillsboro Police Department with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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MEDFORD, Ore.—On June 2, 2023, a federal jury in Medford found a southern Oregon man guilty of multiple crimes resulting from his boobytrapping of a home that injured an FBI bomb technician.

Gregory Lee Rodvelt, 71, a former resident of Williams, Oregon, was found guilty of assaulting a federal officer and using and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

According to court documents, on September 7, 2018, bomb technicians from Oregon State Police (OSP) and the FBI went to a property in Williams formerly owned by Rodvelt that he had lost in lawsuit. After Rodvelt learned that a receiver had been appointed to sell the property, he proceeded to boobytrap it.

When the bomb technicians arrived at the property, they observed a minivan blocking the gate. The technicians found steel animal traps affixed to a gate post and under the hood of the minivan. They also located homemade spike strips, which the receiver had previously run over. As the technician neared the residence, they observed a hot tub that had been placed on its side and rigged in a manner that when a gate was opened it would activate a mechanical trigger causing the spa to roll toward the person who had opened the gate. 

The technicians further observed that the windows of the residence had been barred from the inside and there were security doors at the front and rear of the residence. The front door also had what appeared to be bullet holes from shots fired inside. In the garage, they found a rat trap modified to accept a shotgun shell. Though the trap was unloaded, it was connected to the main garage door so it would be tripped when the door was opened.

The technicians and two other law enforcement officers gathered near the front of the residence and used an explosive charge to breach the front door. The group carefully entered the residence, looking for traps, and found a wheelchair in the center of the front entryway. When the wheelchair was bumped, it triggered a homemade shotgun device that discharged a .410 shotgun shell that struck the FBI bomb technician below the knee. The group administered first aid to the wounded technician and transported him to a local hospital.

Assaulting a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison. Using and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence is punishable by up to life in federal prison.

Rodvelt will be sentenced at a later date by U.S. District Court Judge Michael J. McShane.

This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from OSP and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). It was prosecuted by Judith R. Harper and Jeffrey S. Sweet, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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SALEM, Ore. — June 5, 2023 — Warmer weather has arrived, and Oregonians are eager to hike, camp, boat, climb and explore. In recognition of Search and Rescue Month, several state agencies are sharing best practices on how to keep outdoor adventures safe for people and Oregon’s scenic landscape.

“Oregon is one of the best places in the world for outdoor adventure, and we want everyone to get outside and discover all the state has to offer,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “And please be safe when you’re out there. We encourage everyone to be prepared for their next adventure so they can stay safe and minimize their impact on the communities they visit.”

On average, more than 1,000 Search and Rescue (SAR) missions are conducted each year in Oregon, and over the last decade, 99% of people needing SAR assistance lived outside the county where they were rescued. Lack of preparedness was often the common denominator. 

“Our SAR teams rescue many folks who are often inexperienced, overconfident and unprepared for the reality of the situation,” said State SAR Coordinator Scott Lucas. “We find people who set out for a hike wearing flip-flops and shorts and carrying no water. They might take an unmarked trail, get disoriented or take a fall, and they could be lost for days.”

Whether traveling for a few hours or a week, people should know their physical limits and plan for activities that won’t exceed their experience. Before heading out, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management recommends the following best practices:

• Look up the destination and get familiar with the area.
• Check weather conditions.
• Download maps to a cell phone or print them in case there is no cell service.
• Check Tripcheck.com or call 511 for road conditions.
• Check the Oregon Department of Forestry’s posted public fire restrictions.
• Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on cell phones.
• Bring clothing layers and footwear appropriate for the weather and terrain.
• Pack the proper equipment and extra food, water and supplies.
• Have an emergency kit and cell phone charger in the vehicle.
• Travel with a companion.
• Share travel plans with someone, including the destination and estimated return.

Sunshine and warmer weather lead many people to the water. Anyone near the water should always wear a life jacket. Check the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB)’s map of life jacket loaner stations to borrow for the day if you don’t have your own. OSMB advocates preparation and planning through its website, which lets people check water levels, obstructions, tide information, local regulations and boating access before they head out. 

“Playing in and around the water is a lot of fun but it comes with risks,” said OSMB Public Information Officer Ashley Massey. “Most incidents and fatalities are caused by falling overboard or capsizing into cold water without a life jacket or the necessary skills for self-rescue. People need to always scout ahead, mind the tide, decide on the safest route and expect the unexpected.”

OSMB also recommends people recreate with others so they can provide aid more quickly if the unexpected happens. In 2022, there were 16 recreational boating fatalities where 10 victims were not wearing life jackets; seven were paddlers operating alone.

The Oregon State Park system is one of the most popular in the U.S. with more than 52 million day-use visits per year, so it’s no surprise it sees an uptick in visitors throughout the summer months. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) recommends that visitors be aware of campfire restrictions in the summer months and use best practices to keep campfires safe and enjoyable. The agency also encourages anyone visiting the outdoors to get to know and follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace. 

“Leave No Trace is a set of actions that can minimize impacts on plants, animals, other people and entire ecosystems,” said OPRD Incident Response Coordinator Jamen Lee. “These seven guidelines boil down to protecting the resources, the things that call the parks home, and all the other people that hope to come and recreate behind you and have that same sense of discovery and excitement. To help a Search and Rescue team provide you with a safe and timely response when you need it most, it's very important that visitors stay on designated trails and pay close attention to park signs and protective barriers when visiting natural areas like the ocean shores or trails."

Oregon’s SAR program supports the broad spectrum of search and rescue operations throughout the state, including coordinating state and federal agencies involved in search and rescue activities and providing on-scene search and rescue efforts when requested. There is no charge for SAR calls. In case of emergencies, dial 9-1-1; most Oregon counties also accept texts to 9-1-1.

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Photo Captions:
Oregon Department of Emergency Management logo. (Courtesy Oregon Emergency Management)
An injured climber on Mt. Washington in Linn County awaits extraction by an Oregon Army National Guard helicopter. (Courtesy Oregon Emergency Management)
Deschutes County Sheriff Search and Rescue assist an injured hiker at Green Lake. (Courtesy Deschutes County Sheriff Search and Rescue)
Deschutes County Sheriff Search and Rescue exercise to extract an injured hiker. (Courtesy Deschutes County Sheriff Search and Rescue)
Marine officers and first responders practice lifesaving skills in Clackamas County during Oregon State Marine Board’s swift water rescue training. (Courtesy Oregon State Marine Board)
Union County Sheriff Search and Rescue prepare an injured patient for helicopter evacuation. (Courtesy Union County Sheriff Search and Rescue)

(Salem, OR) — Oregon’s draft 2023-2026 State Plan on Aging  ̶  which shapes how older adults, people with disabilities, their families and other unpaid care providers are served  ̶   is available for review. The public is asked to provide comments on the plan to the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) by 5 p.m. Monday, June 26, 2023.

The plan is developed by the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) and is required under the Older Americans Act of 1965. The plan is a contract with the Administration on Aging, a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living and allows Oregon to receive funds under the Older Americans Act. 

Oregon’s draft State Plan on Aging for 2023-2026 has five focus areas:

• Older Americans Act core programs
• COVID-19 recovery
• Service equity
• Expanding access to Home and Community Based Services 
• Caregiving.

Public input will be used as APD finalizes its proposed State Plan on Aging, which it submits to the federal Administration for Community Living. To review the draft State Plan and a summary of the plan, visit the State Unit on Aging webpage. A public hearing is scheduled for Monday, June 26, 2023, at 11 a.m. Information about the public hearing is posted to the State Unit on Aging webpage.

To submit comments on the draft State Plan on Aging:

• Email public comments to: SUA.email@odhsoha.oregon.gov
• Mail written comments to: ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities, Attn: Debbie McCuin, 500 Summer St., NE, E-12, Salem, OR 97301

About the Office of Aging and People with Disabilities: 

APD’s vision is to ensure Oregon’s older adults, people with disabilities and their families experience person-centered services, supports and early interventions that are innovative and help maintain independence, promote safety, wellbeing, honor choice, respect cultural preferences and uphold dignity.

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SALEM – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is warning consumers to be wary of an unexpected text or direct message from a stranger – it might be the first step in a “pig butchering” scam. The term pig butchering comes from the practice of fattening a pig before slaughter. These scams often involve fraudsters contacting targets seemingly at random, using social media or common communication apps. 

The scammer gains the victim’s trust, often by starting a romantic relationship or a simple friendship. The scammer then starts to convince the victim to invest in phony investments, including fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes, before falsely claiming the initial investment grew significantly. The scammer then asks for more and more money, and demand multiple types of fees if a victim requests to withdraw the funds. Even when the victim pays the withdrawal fees, the fraudster does not refund the victim’s money, but rather disappears with the funds without any further communication.

According to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), there are several warning signs to be aware of involving these types of scams:

• Unexpected contact: Never respond to unsolicited messages from unknown contacts, even about seemingly benign topics, especially via text message and on encrypted messaging applications.
• Refusal to participate in video chats: If someone you consistently have been messaging with declines to interact face to face, they likely are not the person from the profile photo.
• Request for financial information: Don’t share any personal financial information with anyone you have never met in person. If a new virtual friend or romantic connection starts making financial inquiries, put the brakes on the relationship.
• Invitation to invest in specific financial products: Be wary of any unsolicited investment advice or tips, particularly from someone you have spoken to only online and even if they suggest you trade through your own account. Always question what a source has to gain from sharing tips with you and whether the transaction fits with your financial goals and investment strategy.
• Unknown or confusing investment opportunity: Carefully evaluate the product, as well as the person or company requesting your investment. Along with a basic search, try adding words such as “scam” or “fraud” to see what results come up. Consider running recommendations by a third party or an investment professional who has no stake in the investment and use FINRA BrokerCheck to see if the promoter is a registered investment professional.
• Unfamiliar trading platforms: Do extensive research before moving any money, particularly in an emerging market such as cryptocurrency, which has hundreds of exchanges and new avenues for trading continuing to evolve. Who controls the platform? What security measures are in place? How can you withdraw funds if needed? If you don’t know the answers to those questions, don’t put your assets there.
• Exaggerated claims and elevated emotions: Take a closer look at any investment that offers much higher than average returns or is touted as “guaranteed.” Fraudsters will also often use their knowledge about you to appeal to your emotions – something like, “Don’t you want to have money to send your kids to college?”
• Sense of urgency about an upcoming news announcement or share price increase: Remember that insider trading is illegal, and you should never trade in shares of a company on the basis of material, nonpublic information.

“Romance scams and crypto scams continue to be the source of significant losses for consumers,” said DFR Administrator T.K. Keen. “Consumers who receive contacts out of the blue through messaging apps on their phone or other means should be especially suspicious of those trying to entice them into cryptocurrency investments.”

Although the division has not received any complaints specific to pig butchering schemes, it knows that this activity is occurring based upon conversations with federal and nearby state law enforcement authorities. Several states and federal authorities have issued warnings on this sort of fraud. In 2022, investment fraud caused the highest losses of any scam reported by the public to the FBI’s Internet Crimes Complaint Center (IC3), totaling $3.31 billion. Frauds involving cryptocurrency, including pig butchering, represented most of these scams, increasing 183 percent from 2021 to $2.57 billion in reported losses last year. The division accepts consumer complaints and will forward to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. Consumers can also make a complaint to the FBI’s IC3 at https://www.ic3.gov/.

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

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Grover D. Cockrum, died the morning of June 6, 2023. Cockrum was incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution (SRCI) in Ontario and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Cockrum entered DOC custody on December 12, 2017, from Deschutes County with an earliest release date of June 19, 2029. Cockrum was 69 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

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

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An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Amanda Stott-Smith, died the morning of June 4, 2023. Stott-Smith was incarcerated at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified and the Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Stott-Smith entered DOC custody on April 23, 2010, from Multnomah County serving a life sentence. Stott-Smith was 45 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

Coffee Creek Correctional Facility is a multi-custody prison located in Wilsonville accommodating 1,260 adults in custody. The prison has cell and dormitory housing, work programs, skills training, treatment programs, health services, religious services, physical plant, a central records unit, and administrative areas. CCCF participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises, including a contact center, auto CAD, and document scanning. In addition, CCCF houses the state’s intake center (CCIC), which provides intake and evaluation of all individuals committed to state custody by the courts. The intake center houses approximately 400 adults in custody. CCCF’s minimum facility opened in 2001, and the medium facility opened in 2002.

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SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), North Cascade District, is looking for community comments on its facilities master plan.  This plan looks at options after the loss of the ODF’s Lyons office during the 2020 Labor Day fires. A consultant evaluated both the Lyons facility and the Molalla facility and has made several recommendations in the new plan. 

The master plan looks at the benefits and challenges of improving both the Santiam (Lyons) unit and Molalla unit facilities and the alternative of combining both offices into one new facility at a yet to be determined location.

A presentation, a questions and answer period, and a discussion will take place at three in person and one virtual meeting.  The in-person community meetings will be held in Silverton, Lyons and Molalla.  There is limited space at the locations so please RSVP if you plan on attending the meetings.  RSVP to Scott West, Assistant District Forester at Scott.A.West@ODF.Oregon.gov  by noon the day of the meeting you are planning to attend.

All the meetings will be held 6:30-7:30 p.m. and will take place on the following dates and locations:

• June 12 – Silverton Fire Hall, 819 Railway St, Silverton,
• June 13 – Santiam Valley Grange Hall, 1140 5th St, Lyons
• June 14 – Molalla Grange Hall, 127 Grange Avenue, Molalla
• June 15 – Virtual Zoom Meeting is also 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  Meeting link: https://odf.zoom.us/j/99916113858  No RSVP is required for the Virtual Zoom meeting.

The Facilities Master Plan and the Plan Presentation are available online.  Hard copies are also available at North Cascade District offices.

ODF staff are looking for comments on several key questions including:

• Do you have any questions associated with the Master Plan?
• What did you find to be the most useful section of the master plan?
• What do you like or don’t like about the plan?
• How often do you visit a district office each year?
• Any other recommendations about the district’s facilities?
• After the district has decided on a plan of action how or do you want to be informed of its progress?

Email Scott West at Scott.A.West@ODF.Oregon.gov with answers to the above questions and any feedback on the master plan.  Feedback and questions will be discussed at the meetings.

SALEM, Ore. — The Committee for Family Forestlands will meet virtually on Friday, June 9 from 9 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda. 

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Forest Resources Division update
• Tax discussion
• Annual report discussion 
• Global Warming Commission update
• Board of Forestry update 
• Committee member recruitments

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

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

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) announced the approval of $5 million to fund five homeownership development grants for federally recognized Tribes to further homeownership opportunities for Tribal members. This is the first time OHCS has had funding specifically set aside for Tribal homeownership development.  

Prior to the start of the application process for these grants, OHCS met with Tribal representatives to understand their community’s homeownership needs. Based on feedback from the Tribes, two types of funding awards were created: One to fund homeownership development projects that increase the supply of affordable homes for purchase and the other for non-construction projects that lead to increased homeownership opportunities.  

During a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week at the Nixyáawii Neighborhood in the Umatilla Indian Reservation near Pendleton, OHCS Director Andrea Bell said she looks forward to continuing to partner to ensure that more Tribal members can own homes in their communities.  

“OHCS is moving beyond words to take intentional steps toward honoring self-determination in directing resources and additional capacity to our Tribal partners across the state,” said Director Bell. “It is our responsibility and honor to continue to build these relationships and find ways to improve pathways to housing and homeownership for Tribal members. Thank you to the Tribal leaders and members for your ongoing advocacy, presence and contributions.” 

Three applicants will receive a total of $474,715 to support 20 Tribal households either to purchase a home or make necessary repairs to maintain their home.   

The rest of the funding will go toward two homeownership development projects that will lead to the creation of 27 new homes for purchase on land on the Confederated Tribes of the Grande Ronde Community of Oregon and Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation development, called the Nixyaawii Transformative Homeownership Project, will use the $3 million in awarded funds to build 21 new affordable homes with two or three bedrooms for parcel leaseholders on the Nixyáawii Subdivision, a fully developed tract of 42 parcels that is shovel-ready.  

“The state of Oregon is definitely showing their support to the Umatilla Reservation community with the $3 million for homeownership development and the $300,000 for down payment assistance awarded just a few months ago,” said Dave Tovey, executive director at Nixyáawii Community Financial Services. “Tribal members have the opportunity to not just own a home but to be a homeowner on the reservation, a dream that has been unattainable for most. The vast majority of Tribal members I’ve worked with want to live on the reservation, in their community, but have to settle for off-reservation after realizing limited or non-existence of affordable homes to purchase on the Umatilla Reservation. 

“It’s exciting to see all of this come together with the Nixyaawii Neighborhood ready for homes to be built, receiving the development grant so we can start building homes to sell and the additional down payment funds to help reduce the expense of purchasing a new home.”     

A full list of Tribal homeownership development projects approved for funding can be found on the OHCS website.  

Salem, Ore. –  Ray Jones of Lake Oswego has been playing Oregon's Game Megabucks for the past 10 years hoping to hit it big. It happened for the 59-year-old in Wednesday’s drawing, when he matched all six numbers to win the $8.2 million jackpot. 

Jones didn’t find out he won until Thursday evening, when he scanned his ticket at a local store and had a clerk confirm it was a winner. They told him he needed to go to the Oregon Lottery office to claim it.

“I was darn well hoping it was the jackpot,” Jones said. “I’m kind of stunned. I don’t know if I’m going to retire. I want to travel. I love to see new cultures.” 

Jones works in finance for a banking company and said he would still be going to work on Monday. But he will be using the winnings soon to travel to South Africa and likely other destinations, with his recent past adventures including trips to Uruguay and New Zealand. He also wants to support some local charities with the prize.   

The winning ticket was purchased at the 7-Eleven store at 11111 Capitol Highway in Portland. 

Oregon’s Game Megabucks has some of the most favorable big prize jackpot game odds in the world. The jackpot resets to $1 million after someone wins. 

The Oregon Lottery recommends that you sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim any prize. 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. Players have a year to claim their prize. 

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned nearly $15 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org. 

SALEM, Ore—The Local Government Grant Program Advisory Committee will hold public meetings to review grant applications 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., June 26 and 27 via Zoom. 

Applicants to the Local Government Grant Program (LGGP) will present their proposed projects for acquiring, planning, developing and rehabilitating outdoor recreation facilities. The committee will evaluate and score all applications and create a priority ranking list of projects to be funded. The list will be forwarded to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission for final review and approval. 

A schedule listing applicants and their specific presentation times is posted on the Local Government Grant Program web page at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/GRA/pages/GRA-lggp.aspx#2 . A link to view the Zoom meeting is also posted at the site.

The LGGP Advisory Committee consists of eleven members who represent cities, counties, park and recreation districts, port districts, people with disabilities and the general public. They also represent various geographic areas of the state. 

The LGGP was established in 1999 to direct a portion of state lottery revenue to award grants to eligible applicants for outdoor park and recreation projects. The program is administered by Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). 

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

Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries (OCHC) has awarded $62,360 in grants to 14 historic cemetery projects throughout the state through the Historic Cemeteries Grant program. The funds will help support preservation efforts, tree care and access. Individual award amounts ranged from $1,800 - $8,000.

Funded projects:

• Marker base repair at the Bonanza Memorial Park in Klamath County. 
• Clean up and tree trimming at the Burch Family Cemetery in Polk County. 
• Monument repair at the Marshfield Pioneer Cemetery in Coos Bay.
• Rail installation and weed removal at the McFarland Cemetery in Cottage Grove.
• Marker repair at the Dallas Cemetery in Polk County.
• Remove dead trees at the Gilmore Cemetery in Douglas County.
• Clean, reset and repair headstones at the Hubbard Cemetery in Marion County.
• Repair monuments at the Laurel Grove Cemetery in Lane County.
• Repair the access road at the Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Josephine County.
• Repair markers at the Providence Cemetery in Linn County.
• Monument repair at Riverside Cemetery in Albany.
• Repair markers at the Sand Ridge Cemetery in Linn County. 
• Repair the fence, gate and some headstones at the Haystack Cemetery in Wheeler County.
• Repair monuments in the Lafayette Pioneer Cemetery in Yamhill County. 

Historic cemeteries are documented by OCHC and must include the burial of at least one person who died 75 years before the current date. 

The historic cemetery grant program is offered annually by the OCHC, part of the Oregon Heritage Program at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The grant program is supported by lottery and other funds. 

OCHC maintains a list of all pioneer and historic cemeteries in the state. The seven-member appointed commission helps people and organizations document, preserve and promote designated historic cemeteries statewide.

For more information about the grant program or the OCHC, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685. 

The Oregon Heritage Commission has awarded $77,582 in grants to 12 museums throughout the state as part of the Oregon Museum Grant program. The grants will help fund a variety of projects including collection preservation, interpretation, and heritage tourism. Award amounts ranged from $3,315 - $8,000.

Funded projects:

• Canby Historical Society, in Clackamas County, to convert and transcribe oral histories.
• Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, to enhance collections management. 
• Deschutes County Historical Society, in Bend, to convert tape audio files to digital.
• Elkton Community Education Center, in Douglas County, provide training to interpreters. 
• High Desert Museum, in Deschutes County, to provide reunions between cultural items in the collections and living descendants. 
• Japanese American Museum of Oregon, in Portland, to catalog and digitize the Hood River Incident collection.
• Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, in Joseph, to update and create traveling exhibits. 
• Milwaukie Historic Society, in Clackamas County, to install an interpretive panel about Ah Bing, developer of the Bing Cherry.
• Springfield Museum, in Lane County, to ultraviolet protective film on the museum windows. 
• Sumpter Valley Railroad Restoration, Inc., in Baker County, to complete work on the new archives building.
• The Museum at Warm Springs, in Jefferson County, to complete an exhibit of its 30-year history.
• Woodville Museum, Inc., in Rogue River, to install a new HVAC system.

The museum grant program is offered annually by the Oregon Heritage Commission, part of the Oregon Heritage program at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The grant program began in 1965 when only 24 organizations were eligible for the program. The grant is funded OPRD lottery dollars. 

The Oregon Heritage Commission works to secure, sustain and enhance Oregon’s heritage. The Commission sponsors heritage initiatives that educate the public about the value of heritage and celebrate the state’s diversity.

The Oregon Heritage Commission consists of nine members appointed by the governor and nine agency advisors. Members are chosen from state agencies and statewide organizations, and represent a diverse geographical and heritage background. 

To learn more about the Oregon Museum Grant or the Oregon Heritage Commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685. 

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) is hosting a virtual public comment hearing on Thursday, June 8, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. PDT. The event provides Seavey Loop Water Company customers an opportunity to comment on the impacts of the utility’s proposed increase to water rates. 

Seavey Loop Water Company requests to increase rates by just under 77 percent, noting an increase in operating costs and recent capital investments to improve water quality, system reliability, and efficiency as the reasons for the request. This would impact customer rates differently depending on water usage. For an average residential customer, a current monthly bill is about $56.99. With the proposed increase, an average bill would increase to about $97.16 per month.

Seavey Loop Water Company’s general rate change request will be fully investigated on behalf of water customers. This public comment hearing is part of that investigation, which will conclude when the Commissioners rule on the request. If approved, the new rates could go into effect January 1, 2024.

Ways to Comment

Comment via Zoom or phone on June 8

Seavey Loop Water customers and other interested persons may participate in the public comment hearing to provide verbal comments. 

When: Thursday, June 8, 2023, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. PDT 

• View the meeting notice to link to the Zoom session at https://bit.ly/3Mox7ec
• Participate by phone at 669-254-5252 (Meeting ID: 160 263 4491; Passcode: 4768227053) 

Submit comments directly to the PUC by November 7, 2023: 

• email licComments@puc.oregon.gov">PUC.PublicComments@puc.oregon.gov  
• Call 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404 (all relay calls accepted) 
• Mail comments to Oregon Public Utility Commission, Attn: AHD – UW 196, PO Box 1088, Salem, OR 97308-1088 

Stay Informed

To stay informed throughout this rate case process, individuals may request to be added to the distribution list to receive publicly available documents. Submit requests by email to ings@puc.oregon.gov">puc.hearings@puc.oregon.gov or by calling 503-378-6678. Please specify Docket No. UW 196 in the request.

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

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) is hosting a virtual public comment hearing on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at 6 p.m. PDT. The event provides customers of Avista an opportunity to comment via Zoom on the impacts of the utility’s proposed increase to natural gas rates. Customers may also submit comments in writing or by phone through June 22, 2023, to be included in staff’s opening testimony of this case.

Avista filed a request to increase rates by 7.4 percent on average over all 106,000 Oregon customers. This would impact customer rates differently depending on usage and customer type – residential, business, or industrial customers. For a residential customer in a single-family home using an average 47 therms per month, a current monthly bill is about $77.01. With Avista’s proposed increase, the average residential customer bill would increase to about $83.21 per month. For the average residential customer, this represents an increase of $6.20 a month, or an 8.06 percent increase.

Avista identifies additional capital investments, including investments to maintain and expand its natural gas distribution facilities, and the effect of high inflation levels on the company’s operational costs, including interest rates, labor, and materials as the reasons for the proposed increase. 

Avista’s general rate change request is undergoing a nearly year-long review and will be fully investigated on behalf of natural gas customers by the PUC, the Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board, the Alliance of Western Energy Consumers, Sierra Club and Climate Solutions. This public comment hearing is part of that investigation, which will conclude in December when the Commissioners rule on the request. New rates, if approved, are expected to go into effect January 1, 2024. Any rate change approved as part of this general rate change filing would be in addition to the annual adjustment made to customer rates for the actual price of natural gas for the year. The purchased gas adjustment, which can be an increase or a decrease in customer rates, would go into effect November 1, 2023.

Comment via Zoom or phone on June 7 

Interested individuals may participate in the virtual public comment hearing to provide verbal comments to the Commissioners and the Administrative Law Judge presiding over this case. 

          When: Wednesday, June 7, 2023, from 6-7 p.m. PDT 

          This meeting may go beyond the scheduled end time to allow more people to comment, so please log in before 7           p.m. PDT. 

          View the meeting agenda to access the Zoom link and phone-in details at https://bit.ly/439Je5x. 

Submit comments directly to the PUC by June 22, 2023

• email licComments@puc.oregon.gov">PUC.PublicComments@puc.oregon.gov
• Call 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404 (all relay calls accepted)
• Mail comments to: Oregon Public Utility Commission, Attn: AHD – UG 461, PO Box 1088, Salem, OR 97308-1088

Comments received later are still appreciated but may not be addressed in Staff’s opening testimony in this case.

Stay Informed 

To stay informed throughout Avista’s proposed rate change process, individuals may request to be added to the distribution list to receive publicly available documents. Submit requests by email to ings@puc.oregon.gov">puc.hearings@puc.oregon.gov or by calling 503-378-6678. Please specify Docket No. UG 461 in the request.

# # # 

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

The Benton County Talks Trash Solid Waste Workgroup is set to formally deliver its final report, along with written public comments received during an extended open comment period, to the Benton County Board of Commissioners on June 13. The report and public feedback are expected to play a crucial role in informing Commissioners' decision-making on solid waste and sustainable materials management in Benton County.

Benton County Board of Commissioners Chair Pat Malone said, "This important document will guide the Commission’s deliberations for the future of Solid Waste and Sustainable Materials in Benton County." 

The report, which represents the culmination of a substantial collaborative process involving the public and key stakeholders, will serve as a guiding document for the County's future.

At the heart of the workgroup's objective was the Board of Commissioners’ commitment to transparency and collaboration on a complex and potentially contentious topic encompassing solid waste management and the Coffin Butte regional landfill. Currently, Coffin Butte hosts a landfill that serves a significant portion of the Willamette Valley.

Commissioners Xan Augerot and Nancy Wyse praised the collaborative effort and expressed gratitude for the community members and stakeholders who actively participated in the development of the report.

The completion of the report is the culmination of countless hours of collaboration and marks a pivotal moment for the Board of Commissioners and other county leaders. Equipped with the report, the Board is now well-positioned to make informed decisions on this high-priority topic, which aligns with Benton County's 2040 Thriving Communities Initiative, aiming to foster a sustainable future.

The presentation of the Benton County Talks Trash Solid Waste Workgroup's final report on June 13 marks a significant milestone for Benton County; it sets the stage for collaborative decision-making and will inform sustainable materials management strategies for the future.

Community members interested in attending are welcome. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. in the Holmes-Shipley Board meeting room located at 4500 Research Way in Corvallis. The public can email pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov for additional information.

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

The Benton County Board of Commissioners gave recognition to the Benton County Fleet Team, on June 6, for being awarded 4th place in the 2023 NAFA Fleet Management Association's 100 Best Public Fleets competition during a Board meeting at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis, Ore.

The National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA) is the leading membership association in the vehicle fleet industry, NAFA's 100 Best Fleets in the Americas program, held annually, recognizes excellence in public and commercial fleet operations. Benton County achieved 9th place in 2022, showing consistent improvement as one of the top fleets (out of thousands) in North, Central and South Americas.

“The primary objective of the 100 Best Fleets program is to inspire and cultivate continuous improvement and innovation within the fleet industry,” said Benton County Fleet Manager Keith Nicolson. “To be recognized as one of the best is a great honor and accomplishment for our team.”

Benton County Sustainability Coordinator Sean McGuire said that a key component of the Benton County Fleet program is its role in helping achieve the County’s sustainability goals.

“Learning that Fleet Services are a Top 5 program came as no surprise, as their dedicated staff has consistently been a champion of sustainability principles. Fleet Services pushes the envelope to purchase alternative fuel vehicles and cleaner infrastructure to achieve the County’s aggressive climate action goals,” McGuire said.

The Benton County Board of Commissioners presented the NAFA award with Benton County Challenge Coins that are awarded to employees for exceptional service.

“We are proud of the fleet crew. Their consistent recognition as one of the best fleets in the Americas is a testament to their commitment to excellence,” said Benton County Board Chair Pat Malone.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 7, 2023

TEMPORARY CLOSURE NOTICE

Pickett County Park

(Douglas County, Ore.) Beginning on Monday, June 12, 2023, the Douglas County Parks Department will temporarily close Pickett County Park, near Canyonville for a much needed pavement improvement project.  The project is expected to take about two weeks to complete.  The tentative project timeline is June 12, 2023, through June 23, 2023.  As with any project, unforeseen delays due to weather, equipment and material availability could possibly extend the anticipated project timeline.

We understand that this park is a popular destination for launching boats, fishing, swimming, picnicking, and BBQs, so park patrons are encouraged to select an alternate facility that will fit your needs amongst our large inventory of Douglas County Parks during this time.

Pickett County Park is located off I-5 Exit 98 at Canyonville, about one mile east of Canyonville off Tiller Trail Highway on Pickett Lane.  It sits in the shadows of a mature Douglas fir-stand on the banks of the South Umpqua River.  This park provides a nice spot for fishing, swimming during warmer months and picnics. A boat ramp also provides access to the river.

The Douglas County Parks Department appreciates the public’s patience as they continue to improve your recreational experience in our county parks. For more information, or to locate a park, campground or boat ramp near you, log onto the Douglas County Parks Department’s page on the Douglas County, Oregon Government Website at: https://douglascounty-oregon.us/265/Parks.

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Contact Tamara Howell, Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist (PIO)

(541) 670-2804 cell - (541) 957-4896 office - tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 7, 2023

Commissioners Issue Proclamation Honoring Women Veterans Day

            (Douglas County, Ore.) The Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman issued a proclamation today at the Weekly Business Meeting calling upon all citizens of Douglas County to observe June 12, 2023, as Women Veterans Day.  The proclamation was presented by Commissioner Chris Boice, on behalf of the Board and acknowledged that, “Douglas County salutes and honors the service of all women who have courageously and honorably served in the United States Armed Forces.”  A copy of the live video presentation can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment.

“I think it’s very important to have the conversation that women veterans are veterans.  They are equal to and the same as all veterans. They deserve the same services and benefits available to all veterans. I had the chance to serve in the Oregon Legislature on the Veterans Committee, now fourteen years ago.  At that time, services for women veterans at the VA and other sources were not where they needed to be.  There was a great push back then to improve those services.  I am very happy to see the progress happening, and that there is a continued dedication of efforts to improve services for them. I am glad we can do things like this proclamation today, that not only honors women veterans, but also brings additional awareness to their organizations, services, and programs. Thank you all for being here today,” stated Commissioner Tim Freeman. 

Women Veterans Day is celebrated on June 12 each year across that nation, and Douglas County was honored to be one of the first counties in Oregon to celebrate the newly established Oregon holiday recognizing women veterans on June 12, 2019.  Women Veterans Day is celebrated each year and honors the brave women who have served and thanks them and their families for their dedication, service, sacrifice and outstanding contributions on behalf of a grateful nation.  They also wanted to thank and recognize the many local Veteran Service organizations that support, assist and advocate for our women veterans and their families. Commissioner Freeman presented Women Veterans Day proclamation certificates to: Douglas County Veterans Service Office - Mary Newman-Keyes; Douglas County Veterans Advisory Committee Members; Douglas County Veterans Forum - Jim Little; Wings of Love - Carol Hunt; Roseburg VA Hospital - Jessica Burnett, Jasmine Hatch and DeAnne Stanberry; Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians – Tribal Veteran Service Office, Robert Van Norman; Umpqua Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution – Tricia Powell, Jan Delano; Douglas County Sheriff’s Office – Deputy Monique Gatien and Deputy Bree Koch; Bridgewood Rivers – Community Relations – Connie Kloha (accepted the award on behalf of Marge Cook, 104 year-old Army Veteran); U.S. Army Veteran Dawnetta Loomis and the local Chapter of the American Women Veterans Association.

Since the American Revolution, women have proudly served and supported our nation’s military and since the inception of the Army Nurse Corps in 1901, women have formally served in the United States Armed Forces.  June 12^th is a significant date in history.  As it marks the 75^th Anniversary of the 1948 Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, which acknowledged the great contributions made by women in the military and finally granted them the right to serve as permanent, full and regular members of the United States Armed Forces and Reserves.  During World War I, about 35,000 women officially served as nurses and support staff. In World War II, 140,000 women served in the U.S. Army and the Women's Army Corps performing critical jobs such as military intelligence, cryptography, and parachute rigging.  Today, there are nearly 2 million women veterans living in the United States that have proudly served in United States Armed Forces. 

            Douglas County serves as home to over 1,500 women veterans, and recognizes the fact that women veterans are fastest growing segment of the veteran population in the United States.  This proclamation is a reminder to our citizens to take the time to honor the women who have fearlessly and faithfully served our nation and to thank them and their families for their dedication, service, sacrifice and outstanding contributions on behalf of a grateful nation.

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

Proclamation and Photo Collage Attached.  Individual photos available upon request

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 7, 2023

MEETING NOTICE

Douglas County Senior Services Advisory Council

Monday, June 12, 2023

(Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman are pleased to inform the public that the next meeting of the Douglas County Senior Services Advisory Council will take place on Monday, June 12, 2023, at 3:00 pm in Room 216 of the Douglas County Courthouse located at 1036 SE Douglas Avenue in Roseburg, Oregon.

In compliance with ORS 192.610 to 192.690, we will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to watch the meeting. To view the live stream or post meeting recording, please visit: https://video.ibm.com/channel/douglascountyoregon. 

For additional information about this meeting, please contact the Douglas County Senior Services by calling (541) 440-3677 or email at s@co.douglas.or.us">seniors@co.douglas.or.us  The meeting agenda is attached and can also be found at https://douglascounty-oregon.us/ .

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 6, 2023

Meeting Notice

Douglas County Veterans Advisory Committee

Tuesday, June 13, 2023

(Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman are pleased to inform the public that the next Douglas County Veterans Advisory Committee meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at 3:00 pm in Room 216 of the Douglas County Courthouse located at 1036 SE Douglas Avenue in Roseburg, Oregon. 

In compliance with ORS 192.610 to 192.690, we will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to watch the meeting. To view the live stream or post meeting recording, please visit: https://video.ibm.com/channel/douglascountyoregon. 

For additional information please contact the Douglas County Veterans Service Office by calling (541) 440-4219 or email at ans@co.douglas.or.us">veterans@co.douglas.or.us  The meeting agenda is attached and can be found on the Douglas County government website at https://douglascountyor.gov/.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 5, 2023

Commissioners Honor Michael & Helen LeRitz as Senior Volunteers of the Month

            (Douglas County, Ore.)  Douglas County Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman, along with our Douglas County Senior Services Department are pleased to announce that Michael and Helen LeRitz were awarded the Douglas County Senior Services Volunteer of the Month award for May 2023.  The LeRitzes were presented with the award at the Bistro Sixty Senior Dining Site in Sutherlin on Thursday, May 30, 2023. Bistro Sixty Sutherlin is located at 202 E Central Avenue in Sutherlin, inside the Sutherlin Senior Center.

“Michael and Helen are great assets to our volunteer team in Sutherlin,” remarked Commissioner Tom Kress, liaison Commissioner to the Douglas County Senior Services Department. “We really appreciate that they make time as a couple to serve others, their enthusiasm is contagious!”

            Douglas County Senior Services Food Coordinator Darla Hilburn nominated Michael and Helen for the Douglas County Senior Services Volunteer of the Month award. She said, “Michael is our ‘Hero of the Kitchen’ and Helen does everything and anything to assist our team.” 

The LeRitzes moved to Douglas County about 18 months ago and began volunteering at the Sutherlin Bistro Sixty Senior Dining Site right after they got settled.  Both Michael and Helen are retired U.S. Air Force veterans, and Michael previously worked for the State of Texas before retiring full-time. In their free time, the couple enjoys walking and playing golf. Helen also enjoys crocheting. “We volunteer because we really enjoy the interaction with other people.”  

            Our Bistro Sixty Senior Dining Sites prepare meals on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at our seven rural dining site locations in Glide, Glendale, Reedsport, Riddle, Sutherlin, Winston, and Yoncalla. Senior Services staff know there are others in our communities who could benefit from their Meals on Wheels delivery program and/or meals at their Bistro Sixty Senior Dining Sites.  If residents know of friends or family who are unable to drive, need assistance with daily living activities, would benefit from hot meal delivery, or need other assistance, they are encouraged to call the Aging & Disabilities Resource Connection in the Douglas County Senior Services Department at (541) 440-3677 or by sending an email to c@co.douglas.or.us">adrc@co.douglas.or.us. 

            Douglas County’s seven rural Senior Dining Sites and Meals on Wheels programs are managed by Douglas County Senior Services Department staff but are successful because of the dedication of volunteers like Michael & Helen. To get involved with Douglas County Bistro Sixty Senior Dining Sites and Meals on Wheels programs or to learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Darla Hilburn in our Douglas County Senior Services Department via email at ur@co.douglas.or.us">dahilbur@co.douglas.or.us or by calling (541) 440-3677.  Thank you, Michael & Helen! 

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Media Contact:     Tamara Howell, Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist, Douglas County Public

Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us

Kellie Trenkle, Public Affairs Specialist, Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 440-4493

Email: kellie@co.douglas.or.us 

Photos © D.Hilburn/Douglas County. Individual photos available upon request.

Lane County Animal Services is hosting a training for people interested in volunteering to support livestock transportation, feeding, and sheltering operations during emergencies.

“We rely on volunteers to help care for horses, goats, chickens and other livestock during emergency evacuations and this training will help increase the number of people ready to help,” said Lane County Animal Welfare Officer Isabel Merritt. “It’s incredible to have so many caring community members help us take care of these animals while their owners are evacuated from their homes.”

The training is Saturday, June 24, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Lane County Public Works’ Goodson Room (3040 North Delta Highway, Eugene). Map here. If you plan to attend, please send an email to Lane County Animal Services at LCAS@LaneCountyOR.gov so staff can plan accordingly. 

Volunteers help transport animals out of evacuation zones; support animals sheltering in place in evacuation zones with food, water and welfare checks; and feed, groom and clean up after animals being sheltered with Lane County Animal Services. They may also assist with organizing donations of food, tack or other items. 

Volunteers do not need previous large animal experience, but they should be comfortable learning and being around large animals. People between the ages of 15 and 18 will need to have a guardian’s signed release before they can volunteer during an active emergency; they do not need a release to attend the training. Children under 15 cannot volunteer at this time. 

Learn more about large animal evacuation at https://bit.ly/LCLargeAnimalEvacuation. 

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On May 26, 2023, a Marion County Jury found Lindsey Hines, 36, guilty of misdemeanor Strangulation, two counts of felony Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree (causing physical injury to a dependent person), and felony Strangulation.  The jury found that these four charges constituted three separate incidents and that three of the charges victimized a child under the age of ten. 

Hines represented herself during the three-day jury trial in which the children victims testified. There is no provision under the law that prohibits or restricts a self-represented defendant from cross-examining their victim(s), even children. 

On June 6, 2023, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Thomas M. Hart sentenced Lindsey Hines to 40 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections. 

Hines has a criminal history that includes Assault in the Fourth Degree constituting Domestic Violence. 

The case was tried by Marion County Deputy District Attorney Katharine Semple. 

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office wishes to congratulate Lieutenant Nick Hunter on his selection as the next Sherriff of Marion County.  We appreciate the Board’s careful and considered selection process.  District Attorney Paige Clarkson stated, “I have worked with Lieutenant Hunter throughout his 15 years at the Sheriff’s Office.  I know him to be a smart, strong, decisive leader and have every confidence in the Board’s choice.  I look forward to our continued public safety partnership with him and his leadership team.” 

“I further would like to thank Sheriff Joe Kast for his over 26 years of service to Marion County as well as his military service to our Country.  Sheriff Kast was exactly the kind of honorable leader we needed over some of the most tumultuous times our County has ever seen.  We will all miss him and wish him only the best in retirement.  He has earned it.” 

OnPoint’s “Guide to Credit Reports and Scores” eBook provides guidance on understanding, improving and protecting credit 

PORTLAND, Ore., June 6, 2023— Rising interest rates and record-high debt have caused credit scores to level off, according to the most recent FICO report. To help consumers protect and build their credit, OnPoint Community Credit Union has released a free eBook, the “Guide to Credit Reports and Scores.” The guide includes tips on understanding credit history and how it can impact financial health.

“Your credit score isn’t just a number, it’s the key to a financially sustainable future,” said Chris Folkerts, Consumer Lending Manager, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Building good credit takes time, but there are steps you can take to understand the nuances and achieve your financial goals. People can build and improve their credit today by reviewing their credit history, getting proactive with lenders and managing debts responsibly.”

OnPoint recommends these eight steps to improve or maintain your credit:

1. Review your report with an expert. The U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recommends consumers check their credit reports at least once per year. A financial expert can help consumers understand their credit history and score, and identify and report inaccuracies, such as fraud or agency errors. 
2. Consider refinancing. Ask lenders if refinancing high-interest-rate accounts is an option. The lower the rate, the more money you save every month. 
3. Track payment due dates. Payment history has the biggest impact on credit scores because it shows responsible debt management. Set up automatic payments or calendar reminders to track payments and never miss a due date. 
4. Monitor monthly statements. Many bills require a minimum monthly payment if the statement can’t be paid in full. Remember, if a monthly payment is less than the minimum amount required, a creditor may consider it a missed or late payment. 
5. Manage credit utilization. Credit utilization is the amount of credit used versus the available amount. Using too much available credit may reflect negatively on the report. Manage utilization first by paying down debts that are close to their limit, paying more than once in a billing cycle and requesting credit increases if you are in good standing.
6. Be proactive. Lenders are more willing to work with someone who is proactive. There are many resources available to those looking to manage unsecured debt. Credit counseling organizations such as OnPoint partner GreenPath Financial Wellness works with people to create customized structured repayment plans. These plans help consolidate debt, lower interest rates and reduce monthly payments, saving money and expediting the repayment process. 
7. Plan for emergencies. In tough economic times, an emergency savings fund can be a game-changer for most people. OnPoint recommends having three to six months of living expenses in a “just in case” fund to offset unexpected costs. Starting small (even $25 per month can make a difference) and making contributions automatic can build a substantial backup fund that may help down the road.
8. Understand it takes time. Building credit doesn’t happen overnight. Updates to credit scores can take 30 days to 10 years, depending on your financial situation. Work with a financial institution to help outline a plan that works for you. 

Taking these steps will help ensure that when it’s time to make big purchases, like buying a home or new car, you are in the best financial position. If you have questions or concerns about your credit, visit any of OnPoint’s 56 branch locations for help reviewing your credit report and understanding your score. 

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 516,000 members and with assets of $8.9 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

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The Umpqua Community College Board of Education will meet on Wednesday, June 14. Meeting information is on the attached agenda. 

ROSEBURG, Ore., June 6, 2023 — Umpqua Community College will be celebrating the class of 2023, on Friday, June 16, 6:00 p.m. at the UCC Swanson Amphitheater. Over 600 students completing their associate degrees, certificates and general education (GED), will be walking in the graduation ceremony. Rain or shine event and open to the public.

• Student Processional: 6:00 p.m.
• Reception to follow

Date: June 16, 2023, 6:00 p.m.

Location: Umpqua Community College, Swanson Amphitheater, 1140 Umpqua College Rd., Roseburg

Numbers of graduates: 

Number graduating: 686 students (includes Community Workforce Training) 

Number walking:  246 

Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer Degree: 163 

Associate of Science: 26 

Associate of General Studies: 23 

Associate of Applied Science: 108 

Certificates: 156 

Apprenticeship Certifications: 22 

Community Workforce & Training Certificates: 98

GED: 90 

First-time multiple UCC teams have advanced to state finals in InventOR

ROSEBURG, Ore., June 6, 2023 —  Two teams from Umpqua Community College (UCC) have advanced to InventOR collegiate challenge state finals to compete for a top prize of $30,000. InventOR is the only competition for college and university students in Oregon to take innovations that address today’s most pressing problems from an idea to a working prototype.

Team LearnSesh and Team AJJ will represent Umpqua Community College at the upcoming 7^th Annual InventOR collegiate challenge on June 22. The two teams will present their prototypes to generate power with motion and help educators transform learning using virtual reality (VR). Team members are students in UCC Computer Programming Club and Computer Science classes taught by associate professor Vincent Yip. The team members are Avid Choum-Starkey, Joanna Clark, Jonathan Humphries, and Isaiah Weiss.

“Team LearnSesh and AJJ from UCC have incorporated cutting edge technology to help solve real-world problems,” said Joshua Ogle, dean of Career Technical Education (CTE) at Umpqua Community College. “From power needs to new and inventive ways to teach, both teams from UCC are thinking outside the box and this embodies the UCC spirit. We could not be prouder of our two teams and look forward to the next steps on June 22.”

The teams will compete at the InventOR finals at The Redd East in southeast Portland. The winning team will take home $30,000 in prize money along with valuable mentors and resources to help take their inventions from concept to commercialization. The goal of the program is to provide students with mentorship, education, and to empower them as innovators. All participating teams receive $2,500 in development grant money which aims to take their invention from an idea to a working prototype while learning about the process of commercialization.

InventOR is made possible by The Lemelson Foundation, Business Oregon, Oregon Community Foundation, The Ford Family Foundation, Horan MediaTech Advisors, The Roundhouse Foundation, Stoel Rives, Wells Fargo and Portland State University.

About Umpqua Community College

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

Photos:

Team LearnSesh: Isaiah Weiss.
Team AJJ: Jonathan Humphries (left), Avid Choum-Starkey (right)

Lane ESD's Lane African American-Black Student Success Program and the Eugene Public Library have collaborated on a grant to supporting reading and library access for K-5 grade called “Biblio-Matico: Leaders are Readers”. Studies have shown that access to books is key to reading at grade level and future success. The downtown library will be home to the book vending machine that will provide a free book to targeted youth populations in the Eugene area.

The Biblio-Matico: Readers are Leaders Program goal is to connect with BIPOC and marginalized K-5 graders in the Eugene area and encourage them to come to the library. We hope to partner with area non-profit organizations like yours, that serve and support these populations and provide organizations with tokens for the vending machine. Tokens will then be distributed to K-5 youth by these organizations to redeem at the downtown library vending machine for a free book. For some of these kids, this will be a way to introduce the library and all its resources, to not only the child but hopefully their family and caregivers.

The intention is for these tokens to be a relationship building tool, not a reward or prize but rather a way to build excitement about coming to the library and hopefully encourage a lifelong love of reading and libraries. We would love to talk with you more about how we can partner on this project. If you are interested in participating, please contact us at: aquinteroarias@lesd.k12.or.us, hsears@eugene-or.gov; aforrester@eugene-or.gov. We look forward to partnering and fostering a love of reading.

The Coos Bay School District Board of Directors will meet at Milner Crest (1255 Hemlock Ave) on June 12th at 6:00 PM for a regular school board meeting. This meeting is open to the public and will have a virtual option which can be accesses at cbd9.net.

The Budget Committee of the Coos Bay School District will meet at Milner Crest (1255 Hemlock Ave) on 6/7/2023 at 5:00PM. This meeting is open to the public and will have a virtual option which can be accessed on our website at cbd9.net.

(MILLINGTON, Tenn. NNS) – June 7, 2023. The U.S. Navy is preparing to bring a Navy Week to the Willamette Valley in Oregon from Sept. 25 to Oct. 1.

Willamette Valley Navy Week will bring between 50 and 75 Sailors from across the nation to volunteer throughout the community and discuss why the Navy matters to Oregon. This will be the first Navy Week hosted by the state of Oregon.

Willamette Valley Navy Week will feature in-person demonstrations, performances, and engagements throughout the week that will include:

• Senior Navy Leaders – Flag officer and senior civilian Navy leaders with ties to Oregon and the surrounding area.
• Namesake Sailors – Sailors serving on USS Oregon (SSN 793), a Virginia-class fast-attack submarine and USS Portland (LPD 27), a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock.
• Navy Band Northwest - Performances and masterclasses with Navy Musicians.
• Naval History and Heritage Command – Educational presentations and lesson plans about the deep ties between Oregon and the Navy. 
• USS Constitution – Demonstrations about the oldest commissioned ship in the Navy.
• Navy Expeditionary Combat Command – Educational STEM presentations and fitness demonstrations by technicians, medics, and divers. 
• U.S. Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command – Educational presentation on the importance of atmospheric and oceanographic science and the overall value of STEM education to the Navy.

Navy Weeks are the service's signature outreach program, designed to allow the citizens of Wilmington to learn about the Navy, its people, and its importance to national security and prosperity. The Navy Office of Community Outreach (NAVCO) coordinates Navy Weeks.

"We are excited to bring the Navy Week program to Oregon," said NAVCO's director, Cmdr. Anthony Falvo. "Seapower and America's Navy are more important now than ever before. The U.S. Navy remains our nation's most powerful instrument of military influence and Navy Weeks allow us to showcase how the Navy serves America at sea, in the air, and ashore."

Since 2005, the Navy Week program has served as the Navy's flagship outreach effort to regions without a significant Navy presence, with over 250 Navy Weeks held in more than 80 different U.S. markets.

"We coordinate about 75 outreach events during a Navy Week through corporate, civic, government, education, media, veterans, and community service engagements," said NAVCO Navy Week program manager Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Chambers. "We are looking forward to another great year of engagements and bringing the Navy to every corner of the United States."

For information on Willamette Valley Navy Week, contact Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Chambers at (901) 232-4450 or ers4.mil@us.navy.mil">kevin.l.chambers4.mil@us.navy.mil. 

TUALATIN, OR – On behalf of the more than 24,000 students attending Oregon's independent, private, nonprofit colleges and universities, the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (The Alliance) applauds the Oregon Legislature’s Joint Ways and Means Committee for approving House Bill 5025, the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) agency budget. This budget includes a historic $100 million increase to the Oregon Opportunity Grant (OOG), the state’s primary need-based financial aid program, bringing that budget to $308.4 million, as well as funded the Oregon Tribal Student Grant on a continuing basis at $24.2 million. This significant investment by the Joint Ways and Means Committee and Oregon’s budget writers will provide much-needed financial aid and expanded educational opportunities for Oregon students seeking higher education.

Student recipients of the OOG award often must overcome significant odds to apply, qualify, and attend the college or university that best suits their needs. By investing in the OOG and continuing to fund the Oregon Tribal Student Grant, the Legislature is helping to ensure we give families and students the opportunity to plan for college and persist once they begin. The Oregon Opportunity Grant and the Oregon Tribal Student Grant programs have and should continue to fund students and not institutions, to protect the program pillars of portability, access, and success.

"We are deeply grateful for the increase to the Oregon Opportunity Grant and funding of the Oregon Tribal Student Grant by the Joint Ways and Means Committee,“ said Brent Wilder, President of the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities. “We know the independent sector plays a key role in serving students and fulfilling the state’s talent and economic development needs, and we are working vigorously to ensure our contributions are better understood. We look forward to working with the Governor and Legislature to ensure all Oregon students have access to affordable higher education that best fits their distinct and individual needs and we are pleased to continue our role as a committed partner to address the challenges facing our communities, state, and nation.”

The OOG is a critical lifeline for students pursuing their dreams and aspirations at any of Oregon’s institutions of higher education. To shed light on the remarkable return on investment (ROI) these students achieve at The Alliance’s private, nonprofit member colleges and universities, here are some figures from The Alliance’s recently completed Economic Impact Study (EIS) conducted by Lightcast, the global leader in market analytics.

According to the economic impact data, the benefit-cost ratio for students at Alliance member institutions is an impressive 3.5. In simpler terms, for every dollar invested by students through out-of-pocket expenses and forgone time and money, they can expect a cumulative value of $3.50 in higher future earnings. Applying this ratio to the $4,742,816 OOG allocated to the private, nonprofit sector in 2017-18, the total value generated amounts to an astounding $16,599,856.

Furthermore, the economic impact data reveals that for every dollar invested in the Alliance member institutions, the people of Oregon receive a cumulative value of $6.90 in benefits. Multiplying this figure by the $4,742,816 OOG allocated to the private, nonprofit sector in 2017-18, the total benefits generated equate to an impressive $32,725,430.40.

It is essential to note that these incredible returns of $16 million+ and $32 million+ are solely attributable to the approximately 2,400 students enrolled in Alliance member institutions who received the OOG. This represents nearly 30% of the total number of undergraduate students from Oregon attending an Alliance member institution in 2017-18. These figures underscore the undeniable workforce and economic development outcomes associated with investing in the Oregon Opportunity Grant and the broader impact of The Alliance’s member colleges and universities.

The Alliance strongly believes that education is a powerful catalyst for social mobility and economic prosperity. By increasing access to higher education and empowering students through financial assistance, we are nurturing a more prosperous future for Oregon and its citizens. The $100 million increase to the Oregon Opportunity Grant and funding of the Oregon Tribal Student grant on a continuing basis is a remarkable step towards realizing this vision.

As we celebrate this significant milestone, The Alliance would like to extend its sincere gratitude to our esteemed fellow higher education organizations, the Oregon Community College Association (OCCA), the Oregon Council of Presidents (OCOP), and the Oregon Student Association (OSA) for their support and collaborative efforts in advocating for this substantial boost to the Oregon Opportunity Grant. Together, we have successfully emphasized the importance of affordable and accessible education for all Oregonians.

About The Alliance

The Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (“The Alliance”) is comprised of 12 private, nonprofit, independent colleges and universities in the state of Oregon. These institutions deliver high-quality experiential learning with high-impact teaching strategies. The Alliance is the collective voice of Oregon’s independent, nonprofit higher education sector. For more information, visit www.oaicu.org.

TUALATIN, OR - Oregon’s three higher education organizations, the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (The Alliance), the Oregon Community College Association (OCCA), and the Oregon Council of Presidents (OCOP), together with the Oregon Student Association (OSA), commend the Oregon Legislature’s Joint Ways and Means Committee for approving House Bill 5025, the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) agency budget, which includes an additional $100 million to the Oregon Opportunity Grant (OOG). This investment will increase the state’s primary need-based financial aid program budget to a total of $308.4 million, as well as fund the Oregon Tribal Student Grant on a continuing basis at $24.2 million. This substantial increase in funding will greatly enhance financial aid opportunities for eligible Oregon students pursuing higher education across the state.

Financial aid is a vital component in empowering students to achieve their higher education goals. It serves as a lifeline for countless individuals, breaking down the financial barriers that would otherwise impede their educational pursuits. The Oregon Opportunity Grant and the Oregon Tribal Student Grant play a critical role in opening doors of opportunity for Oregon students, providing them with the necessary resources to access and complete their college education.

Equally significant is the principle of allowing the money to follow the students. Recognizing the importance of individual choice and personalization in education, we advocate for students to have the autonomy to select the educational institution and environment that best aligns with their distinct needs, aspirations, and learning styles. Granting students the freedom to direct their financial aid empowers them to make informed decisions about their educational journey, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and successful college experience.

Investing in education is an investment in the future of Oregon. By expanding financial aid programs and advocating for the money to follow the students, we are creating a more inclusive and accessible higher education landscape. The $100 million increase to the Oregon Opportunity Grant and funding the Oregon Tribal Student Grant on a continuing basis marks a significant milestone in our joint efforts to remove barriers and create equal opportunities for all Oregon students, a testament to Oregon’s collective commitment to equity in education.

Together, these four organizations in Oregon’s higher education landscape have championed the cause of affordable and accessible education, ensuring that the voices of students are heard and valued. We thank the Governor and Legislature for their commitment to providing critical investments in Oregon’s post-secondary students.

Tentative agreement reached after two marathon days of negotiations with federal mediator - agreement sees nationally historic wage increases and iron-clad protections for rest and meal breaks.

(BEND, Ore.) – Nurses at St. Charles Medical Center in Bend successfully reached a tentative agreement with hospital management early this morning after more than 40 hours of negotiations over the last two days, including working with a federal mediator. The nearly 1,000 nurses are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA).

“It has been clear since the beginning of our negotiations that the nurses of St. Charles were laser-focused on three core issues,” said Erin Harrington, RN, chair of the St. Charles Bargaining Unit Executive Committee. “Move St. Charles management to a contract that will recruit new nurses to work at our hospital, retain the excellent nurses who already work here, and respect nurses by protecting their legal right to rest and meal breaks, and ensuring we keep our jobs should St. Charles be sold. This agreement does all of these things and more.”

Having reached this tentative agreement, nurse leaders from St. Charles have called off their planned strike, which was set to begin on June 12, 2023, at 7:00 a.m. Voting to ratify the tentative agreement will begin within a few days following detailed discussions of the proposed agreement with the nurses.

If approved, the agreement will include historic wage increases which are key to the recruitment of new nurses. Key provisions of the tentative agreement related to base pay include:

• The starting base wage for a nurse holding a bachelor’s degree in nursing will increase nearly $17.00 per hour over the life of the contract, or an increase of 41%.
• The average base wage for nurses currently on Steps 1 through 5 will increase by 48% over the life of the contract, including steps and negotiated increases to the wage scale.  

Compared to the starting wage at Kaiser Permanente in the Pacific Northwest in the final year of their contract (expiring Sept. 30, 2025), the starting wage at the end of this contract for a nurse holding a bachelor’s degree in nursing will be 16% higher than the wage at Kaiser.  

“Given St. Charles’ long-standing challenges recruiting new nurses to work at our hospital, these wins will be truly transformative for our ability to get new nurses at the bedside,” said Harrington. “Higher staffing levels are associated with a reduction in patient mortality, pressure ulcers, need for restraints, infection, and pneumonia among other health outcomes. In fact, research shows there is a 14% decrease in risk for in-hospital mortality for every additional one decrease in patient load over 24 hours.”

Additional elements were also agreed to with a specific focus on the retention of currently employed nurses. Nurse leaders had long pointed to St. Charles' inability to keep nurses on staff, noting that more than 500 nurses had left St. Charles in just the past few years alone. Those pay agreements include:

• The average base wage for nurses currently on Step 10 or higher would increase to by 36% per hour by the end of the contract, including steps and negotiated increases to the wage scale.  
• The average base wage for nurses currently on Step 20 or higher would increase to nearly 33% per hour by the end of the contract, including steps and negotiated increases to the wage scale.  

Nurses were also able to secure additional contract protections specifically related to rest and meal breaks. St. Charles’ own data indicated that nurses missed 42,000 legally required rest and meal breaks in 2022. Research has clearly shown that nurses who miss breaks are more likely to burn out, experience exhaustion, and are ultimately more likely to leave the bedside.  

“For our nurses, this contract is going to be a game changer. But it is really the impact on our patients that is the most gratifying,” said Harrington. “We have always put our patients, and the care of our community, front and center. With this contract, we can recruit more nurses, keep the nurses we have, stop the bleeding of nurses leaving the hospital, and ensure our nurses are supported.”

The new agreement provides assurances that nurses will receive their breaks or will receive payments when their breaks are missed. Nurses were also able to reach agreement with management that the provisions of the new contract, once passed, will remain in place even if St. Charles were to be sold to a new health system.

“Studies show that nurses who work in supportive environments that prioritize nursing resources and minimum staffing standards experience better job satisfaction,” Harrington said. “They experience less illness and injury, less emotional exhaustion, burnout, and moral injury, and are less likely to want to leave their jobs. This was always at the heart of our fight and we are incredibly proud of what we have accomplished in these negotiations.”

“This has been an incredibly difficult process,” said John Nangle, RN, a member of the bargaining team. “Nurses were 1000% ready to go on strike if we did not get a fair contract. We never wanted to. We never sought to go on strike, but we were prepared to do so to protect our community and our colleagues. This agreement does that, and I am grateful a strike is no longer necessary.”

Community support was critical to the success of these negotiations. “We could not have done it without the people of Bend and people throughout Central Oregon,” said Harrington. “We want to thank our union siblings from the Oregon Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals, the Bend Education Association, the Firefighters, the Bend Police, Representative Jason Knopf, the Bend Mayor and City Council, and the hundreds and hundreds of our friends and neighbors who have stood up for nurses and for patient safety. This is as much your victory as it is ours.”

Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers, ONA’s national union, said in a statement to nurses this morning: “This is a historic contract for a historic time. Your tenacity and dedication, both to your patients and yourselves, is truly remarkable. Thank you for holding the line, and for maintaining your integrity, during this extremely difficult negotiation process. This is a victory for each and every nurse at St. Charles, but more than that it is a victory for every nurse and patient in Bend, in Oregon and across the nation! Congratulations on achieving this historic tentative agreement – it is well earned and I and the 1.7 million members of the AFT are so proud to stand with you to achieve the respect, wages, and conditions you and your patients deserve.”

More information will be forthcoming about the contract vote shortly, and additional information on the specific provisions of the contract will be made available after nurse leaders meet with the members of the bargaining unit in the coming days.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is the state’s largest and most influential nursing organization. We are a professional association and labor union which represents 16,000 nurses and allied health workers throughout the state. Our mission is to advocate for nursing, quality health care and healthy communities. For more information visit: www.OregonRN.org.

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Nurses represented by the Oregon Nurses Association have notified PeaceHealth management of their intent to hold informational pickets at two locations on June 7, 2023, from 3 to 6 p.m. 

WHAT: Hundreds of local nurses and their supporters will hold informational pickets at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Hospital at Riverbend in Springfield and at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center University District in Eugene on June 7, 2023, from 3-6 p.m. The nurses, who are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), are raising awareness of ongoing staffing issues at the hospitals, failures to recruit and retain nursing staff by PeaceHealth management, and management’s attempts to divide nurses on key issues. 

WHEN: Wednesday, June 7, 2023, from 3-6 p.m. Nurse spokespeople will be available at both picket locations for media comment. The pickets will be held rain or shine.  

WHERE:  

• RIVERBEND LOCATION: In front of Riverbend Hospital (3333 Riverbend Avenue, Springfield, Oregon) at the intersection of Cardinal Way and MLK Jr. Pkwy.
• UNIVERSITY DISTRICT LOCATION: In front of University District Hospital (1200 Hilyard Avenue, Eugene, Oregon) at the intersection of E 13th Avenue and Hilyard Street.

WHO: Frontline nurses from PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Riverbend Hospital, PeaceHealth Sacred Heart University District Hospital and Sacred Heart Home Care Services.  
 
WHY: Nurses are demanding PeaceHealth adopt safe staffing standards as part of a fair contract agreement for nurses, ensure competitive pay to help recruit new nurses and retain those who are already employed, and cease divisive tactics that violate years of standard practice for nursing groups to bargain contracts jointly. 
 
The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is the state’s largest and most influential nursing organization. We are a professional association and labor union which represents more than 16,000 nurses and allied health workers throughout the state, including 1,500 frontline nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center and Sacred Heart Home Care Services. ONA’s mission is to advocate for nursing, quality health care and healthy communities. For more information visit: www.OregonRN.org. 
 
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The Urban League of Portland brings together career seekers and employers from all sectors for the 38 th
Annual Career Connections Job Fair on June 8, 2023. The fair will be held in person at the Crowne Plaza
Hotel located at 1441 NE Second Avenue Portland, OR 97232. No-cost registration is required for job
seekers. All are welcome regardless of experience, race, age or physical ability.
Hundreds of diverse career seekers will have the opportunity to talk with potential employers who will be
onsite to discuss their companies and current job vacancies. The Urban League partners with
participating employers that are as diverse as the career seekers who attend. A broad range of positions
and industries will return this year.

To help career seekers prepare for the fair, the Urban League is offering workshops to help prepare
resumes and practice interview skills. Employers can also learn more about recruiting top candidates.
President and CEO of Urban League of Portland Nkenge Harmon Johnson, Esq. says the 2023 38 th
Annual Career Connections Job Fair will provide attendees the chance to connect with many of our
region’s best employers. “Our job fair offers a great opportunity for Urban League program participants
and community members to gain living wage employment in a variety of attractive sectors.”
In addition to job opportunities, the Urban League Career Connections Job Fair will feature giveaways
throughout the day including chances for registered attendees to win an iPads and other terrific prizes to
support their career path. Employers from across Oregon and Southwest Washington are returning as
sponsors including Central City Concern, Legacy Health, Northwest Natural, OHSU, Portland Parks and
Recreation, Trillium, and We Are Better Together.
 
CEO and President of Urban League of Portland Nkenge Harmon Johnson, Esq. encourages everyone to
register and share their talents with employers. “This event is not only for the unemployed, but also for
those that are currently employed and looking for a change,” she says.
Both career seekers and hiring employers may register on the Urban League of Portland’s website at
www.ulpdx.org. Also find information about recruiter sponsorship packages. Employers and job seekers
often say that this is the best career fair in the region.

About the Urban League: President Nkenge [pronunciation: neh-KENG-eh] Harmon Johnson, Esq., is
the third longest serving leader of the Urban League of Portland, began her service in 2015. Under her
leadership, the Urban League was recognized as the highly coveted #1 Nonprofit Workplace by Oregon
Business magazine.
The organization’s impact has grown by ten times since the start of President Harmon Johnson’s tenure.
With a dedicated team of professionals, the Urban League helps African Americans and others to achieve
equality in education, employment, health, economic security, and quality of life across Oregon and
Southwest Washington.