Beginning Tuesday, September 7th, and continuing through September 9th, you will notice Albany Fire Department engines and ambulances at school locations throughout the city with banners saying, "Please Drive Slow School is Back in Session".
According to the Center for Disease Control, unintentional injuries are the No. 1 killer of children under 14. Motor vehicles are the No. 1 cause of those injuries. This is the fifth year that Albany Fire Department has done this community service reminding drivers to slow down.


Attached Media Files: Schedule for Albany Schools

On September 2, 2010 at approximately 6:30pm, a female reported to the Corvallis Police Department that she was inappropriately touched by an unknown male while walking in the 700 block of SW Western Blvd. An investigation into the incident revealed the victim was walking on the sidewalk when a male approached her from behind. The victim stepped to the side to let the suspect pass as the suspect grabbed her buttocks. The victim confronted the male at which point he grabbed her breast. The victim yelled at the suspect at which time he fled the area on foot.

The suspect is described as a male with dark colored skin, possibly of Middle Eastern decent. He is approximately 25 yrs old, 5'9" tall with a slender build, black hair with a "bowl cut". At the time of the incident, the suspect was wearing a v-neck shirt, without buttons with red and blue stripes on the collar and the sleeves.

The Corvallis Police Department would like to remind everyone to walk with confidence and be constantly aware of your surroundings. Let people know were you are going and what time to expect your return. Carry a cellular phone to communicate with others and if inappropriately approached by a stranger, yell for help, make people aware of the situation, and immediately call 9-1-1.

If anyone saw someone suspicious, or acting out of place in the area of the incident, please contact Corvallis Police Detective Bryan Rehnberg at (541) 766-6779.


Attached Media Files: 2010-09/1393/38159/Sketch_of_suspect.pdf

On August 22 at 9:41 p.m. Jefferson Fire District was dispatched to a house fire at 945 Salamander Road in Jefferson, Oregon. When firefighters arrived at the home, flames were shooting out of the kitchen window threatening the neighbour's home. They immediately began to protect the house next door while fighting the house fire. Incident Commander Matt Jones called for a third alarm upon arriving at 9:46 p.m. The fire began in the kitchen and burned into the attic, dining and living rooms. The rest of the house has extensive heat and smoke damage.

The neighbour's who live two houses down were in their house and smelled what they thought was an electrical fire. After inspecting their home they went outside and saw smoke coming from the side of their neighbour's house. They immediately called 911. They could hear the smoke detectors along with dogs barking from inside the home. They proceeded to kick the front door in and called for the dogs. Two dogs were safely rescued one of which ran from the scene and is still currently missing.

The owners were not home at the time of the fire. They arrived to the scene approximately two hours later and are currently staying with family.

The fire is under investigation. The estimated damages are undetermined at this time.

Scio, Stayton, Sublimity and Turner Fire Districts were dispatched to assist with the call. At 10:48 p.m. the fire was deemed under control. There are no injuries to report.


Attached Media Files: August 23, 2010 , Firefighters arriving at the scene

Yesterday, August 17, Jefferson firefighters responded to a semi-truck and trailer with a load of hay on fire at 12:34 p.m. at the intersection of Old Salem Road and Conser in Millersburg, Oregon. According to Assistant Fire Chief Scott Shepherd the semi-truck with a pup attached came to a stop at Conser and Old Salem Road, Scott Maskal, who saw flames and the hay on fire when he notified the driver of the truck, Bob Mainard. Mr. Mainard has been employed for three years with Boshart Trucking. The truck is owned by Boshart Trucking.

Mr. Mainard attempted to exntingush the fire using four fire extinguishers while standing on the top of the cab of the truck and kicking the hay bales away from the cab. When the cab of the truck caught on fire, Mr. Mainard had to get down from the truck, at which time the Jefferson firefighters arrived on scene. The fire had traveled underneath the hay and came up on both sides by the fuel tank. The pup trailer had the hay off loaded and was disconnected to save it from damage. In order to extinguish the hay fire, firefighters and Boshart Trucking pulled the bales of burning hay off the trailer and spread them out. Albany Fire responded to assist. Old Salem Road was closed for approximately 1 hour before the fire was deemed under control at 1:01 pm. Conser Road was blocked until 8:00 p.m. due to fire personnel removing debris.

The cause of the fire is believed to have started from the hay being to close too the exhaust. The value of the destroyed semi-truck, trailer and hay is estimated at $22,400 according to Todd Boshart of Boshart Trucking. Todd Boshart stated the semi-truck, trailer and hay are insured.

While Jefferson firefighters were still cleaning up the debris from the hay truck fire, Jefferson Fire was dispatched at 4:23 p.m. to a grass fire just off of I-5 at Milepost 239 northbound. The fire quickly went to a 3rd alarm and Albany, Turner and Stayton and Scio Fire departments were dispatched for assistance. I-5 northbound was closed for approximately 10 minutes then opened to one lane for an additional 30 minutes. The fire was believed to have started from a flail mower that was being used by ODOT to mow along the edge of the freeway. When Division Chief Troy Jurgens arrived on scene the fire had spread towards a partially harvested wheat field and was fast moving due to the winds. Fire personnel were able to keep the fire out of an un-harvested standing wheat field. The fire burned approximately 1 1/2 acres and was not considered to be of any financial loss due to the field already being harvested. The field was leased by Duane Nyquist and owned by Larry Langmade. The fire was deemed under control at 5:23 p.m.

There were non injuries reported in either fire.


Attached Media Files: I-5 Fire , I-5 Fire , Hay Truck Fire , Hay Truck Fire

On August 13 at 1:32 p.m. Jefferson Fire District was dispatched to a grass fire on Parker Lane in Millersburg, Oregon. The property is currently being leased by Millrite Farms. Jefferson Fire Chief Zeilman arrived on the scene when the fire quickly escalated to a 3 alarm fire and then a 4 alarm based on requirements for man power and apparatus.

The fire burned about five acres of a mowed grass seed field, blackberry vines and into the tree line. There was no dollar loss to the property. The fire was caused by the flail mower. Extra apparatus was in place to provide structure protection.

Albany, Turner and Stayton were dispatched to assist with the call. At 2:32 p.m. the fire was deemed under control. There are no injuries to report.

###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1180/37525/DSC02838.JPG , 2010-08/1180/37525/DSC02837.JPG

• Klamath County Sheriff's Office
• Klamath Falls Police Department
• Oregon State Police (OSP)
• Federal Bureau Of Investigation
• United States Marshall Service
• National Center for Missing and Exploited Children NCMEC
• Jackson County Sheriff's Office
• Klamath County Incident Management Team
• Klamath County Community Corrections
• Team Adam
• Department Of Human Services/ Child Welfare Division
• Klamath-Lake Child Abuse Response and Evaluation Service (CARES)
• Emergency Airlift
• Klamath County District Attorney's Office
• The Tommy Foundation
• Central Point High Tech Crime Unit
• Fox Valley/USDOJ
• Merrill Police Department
• Malin Police Department
• Klamath County School District
• Klamath Falls City Schools
• Community Volunteers
• Media Partners
• Oregon Amber Alert
• OSP Missing Children Clearing House
• Sky Lakes Medical Center

Tomorrow morning's exercise will begin at 7:00 A.M. on the Leroy Street Side of Roosevelt School off Eldorado Avenue. Role players will "abduct" a 10-year old female.
There will be a mobile command post set up at the school. School officials will also be conducting a drill of their lock-down and radio procedures.
The following few hours, the scenario will unfold. There will be opportunity for press and media to visit the command post located at the Klamath County Jail.
By 9:00, the investigation will lead to the area of Moore Park, the Moore Park Marina and the Lynnewood neighborhood.
There will be police operations, search and rescue personnel and equipment, helicopter air operations, sheriff divers, K-9 handlers and other resources working in the area.
One of the helicopters will be landing at Sky Lakes Medical Center after picking up a "patient" at Moore Park.
These operations are accessible to the media. Please wear your credentials or company shirt or jacket for easy identification.
There will be an opportunity to get comments from the Sheriff and Police Chief on the exercise at 12 P.M. at the Klamath County Government Center :305 Main Street Klamath Falls as the participants gather for a debriefing.

Please see previous release for overview of this C.A.R.T. exercise

###

Oregon's first Child Abduction Response Team (CART) will be involved in a full-scale exercise Friday, August 27th, in Klamath Falls to test and evaluate CART's response to a reported child abduction. The exercise is part of the Southern Oregon Region CART's effort to earn national certification from Fox Valley Technical College in conjunction with The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which critiques and monitors agencies working to earn the prestigious certification.

The Southern Oregon Region CART is an inter-agency team comprised of law enforcement personnel and civilian employees and volunteers available to activate and investigate the abduction or endangerment of children in the southern Oregon area. To date, seven CART teams in the nation have received national certification.

Klamath County Sheriff (KCSO) Tim Evinger worked closely with Klamath Falls Police Department and Oregon State Police in launching the development of the Southern Oregon Region CART two years ago. Trained personnel and resources were brought together to deploy when a child is abducted or missing under circumstances requiring immediate response to protect the child's well being.

The Southern Oregon Region CART full-scale exercise kicks off Friday morning at 7:00 a.m. with a reported mock abduction in Klamath Falls. Area citizens should anticipate a rapid response of public safety resources on the ground supported by air operations. In addition to responding law enforcement personnel, the exercise will include trained search and rescue volunteers on the ground; marine deputies and dive rescue personnel; and, search dog handlers and a canine tracker. The exercise should end by 12:00 p.m. and a media briefing will be held upon its conclusion.

Members of the media will be given access to the Incident Command post and selected outside locations, something usually impossible to provide during an actual child abduction event.

"The access afforded to media representatives during the exercise will help local reporters learn about the extraordinary efforts needed to find an abducted child," said KCSO Lieutenant Monty Holloway.

As part of the CART certification, the policies and procedures for all participating member agencies will be evaluated by a three member assessor team on Thursday. The certification is a cooperative effort through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency (OJJDP), Office of Justice Programs (OJP), U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Fox Valley Technical College, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

A list of local and State resources available for the CART exercise is noted in the provided link. Representatives from local school districts, Department of Human Services, FBI, US Marshal Service, outside law enforcement agencies and others have been invited to observe the exercise.

Press and Media wishing to attend, please advise your preference if you would like an officer to guide you to the different scenario locations or if you would like to work off the attached map. We will accommodate either way with advanced notice.

The training will kick off with a mock abduction that will occur adjacent to Roosevelt School, Eldorado Avenue on the Leroy Street Side at 7 A.M. Command and media staging will be in front of the Klamath County Jail for the duration of the exercise. (See map for other locations)


Attached Media Files: Map of Activities during exercise , Participating agencies

Linn County Sheriff Tim Mueller reports that his detectives arrested a Lebanon man for possession of methamphetamine and marijuana related charges after serving a search warrant at 37874 Middle Ridge Drive, Lebanon. Detectives searched the property and found that Charles Edward Smith, age 43, a medical marijuana card holder, was over the legal limit of marijuana plants and the amount of processed marijuana he can possess. Smith was allowed to have six mature marijuana plants and 1 1/2 lbs of processed marijuana. The residence and property are set up for the sole purpose of a marijuana grow operation. There was very limited furniture and clothing in the residence. One bedroom was full of growing lights and related equipment. Detectives seized 19 marijuana plants, approximately 10 lbs of processed marijuana, scales, cash and packaging materials. Methamphetamine and several firearms, including a loaded .380 semi automatic pistol found sitting on a coffee table were also seized from the residence.

Smith is currently lodged in the Linn County Jail on charges of Manufacturing a Controlled Substance (marijuana), Delivery of a Controlled Substance (marijuana), Possession of a Controlled Substance (marijuana) and Possession of a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine). Bail is set at $36,250.


Attached Media Files: 10 , 9 , 8 , 7 , 6 , 5 , 4 , 3 , 2 , 1

Linn County Sheriff Tim Mueller reports that his deputies are investigating the death of an Albany man who died following an off-road motorcycle crash Wednesday night.

At about 8:00 pm Linn County deputies and Jefferson Fire Department personnel were dispatched to the Albany Supercross motocross track at 33648 Berry Lane, Albany, to investigate a death. The investigation revealed Kip Harrison Davis, age 37, was practicing with several other riders when he wrecked his Yamaha YZ 450F motorcycle while negotiating a series of large bumps in the track, known as a "whoop-tee-do's". Davis landed at a steep angle on his front wheel, causing the motorcycle and Davis to flip end over end several times. It appears Davis suffered massive internal injuries and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Mr. Davis was an experienced rider who practiced several days a week at the track

Mr. Davis' body was taken to Fisher's Funeral Home in Albany. A deputy medical examiner is scheduled to examine the body Thursday.

Linn County Sheriff Tim Mueller is looking for citizen volunteers to take Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. The weekend classes will begin at 9:30 AM on Saturday, September 18th and finish on Saturday, October 10th. The training will be conducted at the Linn County Sheriff's Office, 1115 Jackson Street SE in Albany.

CERT is a community based program developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help citizens train, prepare and respond to disasters in their communities. CERT members are trained to provide immediate assistance to their families and neighborhoods until first responders are available. CERT members can also help with ongoing community safety projects, conduct local disaster preparedness presentations, and provide trained support to community events.

Classes will include training in extinguishing small fires, light search and rescue, disaster medical operations, disaster team organizational structure, and personal disaster preparedness. Linn and Benton County citizens are welcome to take this training.

Training is paid for by a FEMA preparedness grant to Linn County. Course materials will be provided to all participants.

For more information or to register for CERT training, contact Vickie Myers at: Phone: 541-829-9321, or email: vickie-anne@hotmail.com subject line "CERT Training".
Or contact Linn County Sheriff's Office - Emergency Management at 541-967-3954

Linn County Sheriff Tim Mueller reports that yesterday his deputies and members of the Linn County Sheriff's Search and Rescue team rescued a Portland man who had broken his leg while elk hunting in the Browder Ridge area.

Jim Sloan, age 56, was hunting with Wendy Wente, age 40, from Hillsboro. They were in the Gate Creek area about 40 miles east of Sweet Home when Jim fell 10 to 15 feet and broke his right leg. Wendy hiked 45 minutes to get cell service and then called 911 shortly before 1 p.m.

Twelve Linn County Sheriff's Search and Rescue team members responded and four deputies as well as members of the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District, Black Butte Fire and the Camp Sherman Hasty Team. Fire personnel reached the victim first and stabilized his leg and then waited for Linn County personnel to assist in transporting the victim. They used a high-angle rescue system, which involved ropes and a rescue litter to help raise and lower the victim over terrain that was at times nearly vertical. They were able to get the man to a gated forest service road and to an ambulance at about 11:30 p.m. He was then taken to St. Charles Medical Center in Bend.

The Linn County Sheriff's Office wants to remind people that if they plan on spending time outdoors, they need to be prepared for an emergency. The people who were rescued yesterday were well prepared and had supplies such as a GPS, space blankets, food and water, ham radio equipment, and cell phones with charged batteries. Having this type of equipment can greatly reduce the response time of rescue personnel. Also remember to leave an itinerary, destination and estimated return time with family or friends at home.

Media contact: Sheriff Tim Mueller, 541-967-3950

Linn County Sheriff Tim Mueller reports that today his detectives pulled 920 mature marijuana plants from property south of Sweet Home off Brush Creek Road. Detectives had been investigating the large marijuana grow, which was on private property owned by Cascade Timber Consultants. The marijuana grow was suspected of being linked to a Mexican cartel. Two workers lived in a tent at the grow site and it appeared that they were living there for a couple months. Linn County Sheriff's Office detectives and members of the Linn County Regional SWAT team entered the garden yesterday. Two Hispanic males fled from the garden and into the surrounding brush. Deputies and a tracking dog attempted to track them for some distance but were unsuccessful in locating the suspects. Deputies, with assistance from the Linn County Sheriff's Search and Rescue, cut and removed the 920 plants today. They also located over a pound of processed marijuana in the campsite. The investigation will continue.

The Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Lebanon Police Department, Sweet Home Police Department, Albany Police Department, DEA and BLM.


Attached Media Files: marijuana3 , marijuana2 , marijuana1

Office of State Fire Marshal Public Information Officer Rich Hoover will be out of the office from 12:30 p.m. Friday, September 3, 2010 through 5:00 p.m. Friday, September 17, 2010. During this period, you may contact the OSFM back-up PIO Anita Horsley at 503-934-8249 (office), or 503-370-0033 (pager).

Thank you.

Structural task forces from Multnomah and Washington Hood River counties are being demobilized from the D. Harris Conflagration due to the decreasing threat to structures in the area. The Oregon State Fire Marshal Red Incident Management Team will turn control of the fire back to the local fire district for structural protection today at 6:00 p.m.

The D Harris Fire began August 18 in the Juniper Flat Fire Protection District. The fire is located approximately five miles southwest of the City of Maupin, Oregon and estimated to be 3,800 acres.

Residents in Maupin should remain on alert for possible evacuation should conditions worsen.

Governor Kulongoski invoked the Oregon Conflagration Act to allow State Fire Marshal Randy Simpson to mobilize firefighters and equipment to assist local resources battling the fire. The request to invoke the conflagration act came from Wasco County Assistant Fire Defense Board Chief Jay Wood.

Additional resources on surviving wildfires may be accessed at:
• Wildfire…Evacuation Readiness http://egov.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/WUI/wildfire_evac.doc
• After the Wildfire… http://egov.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/WUI/After_a_wildfire.doc


###

The D Harris Fire began yesterday 8/19/2010 in the Juniper Flat Fire Protection District. At present, members of the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office Red Incident Management Team are assessing the extent of the fire and reports of destroyed structures.

The fire is located approximately five miles southwest of the City of Maupin, Oregon and estimated to be 3,800 acres. However, a more accurate estimate will be available later in the day.

The fire is burning in grass, juniper, and pine tree stands with dramatic rates of spread yesterday afternoon due to warm temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds. Weather for today is expected to produce similar conditions as Thursday.

Residents in Maupin are on a level 1 evacuation alert advising them to prepare for possible evacuation should conditions worsen.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Office Red Incident Management Team is assigned to the incident and has assumed Command early Friday morning. Task Forces from Hood River, Multnomah, and Washington counties are assigned to the incident.

The structural incident command post and base camp is located at Maupin High School. The incident information officer will be making contact with members of the community today to address any concerns.

Additional resources on surviving wildfires may be accessed at:
• Wildfire…Evacuation Readiness http://egov.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/WUI/wildfire_evac.doc
• After the Wildfire… http://egov.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/WUI/After_a_wildfire.doc

###

Salem, OR—Governor Theodore Kulongoski has declared the D. Harris fire 8 miles west of Maupin as a conflagration. The declaration cleared the way for the state fire marshal to mobilize firefighters and equipment to assist local resources battling the fire. The request to invoke the Oregon Conflagration Act was made by Wasco County Assistant Fire Defense Board Chief Jay Wood.

The fire started around 2 p.m. August 19. Dry fuel conditions of grass and juniper, along with significant winds have caused the fire to move rapidly with extreme fire behavior. The fire is threatening the Wasco County town of Maupin.

The Office of State Marshal's Red Incident Management Team and one structural task force are en-route. A second structural task force is scheduled to deploy the morning of August 20th.

Oregon's conflagration act may be invoked only by the Governor and allows the State Fire Marshal to dispatch structural firefighters and equipment to help local resources provide structural protection.

More information on Conflagration is available here: http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/Conflagration_Information_2007.shtml#Conflagration_FAQs
More Emergency Mobilization information is available here: http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/Oregon_Mob_Plan.shtml

Additional resources on surviving wildfires may be accessed at:
• Wildfire…Evacuation Readiness http://egov.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/WUI/wildfire_evac.doc
• After the Wildfire… http://egov.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/WUI/After_a_wildfire.doc

###

A Missoula, Montana man was arrested Tuesday by an Oregon State Police (OSP) trooper during a speed-related traffic stop west of Hines when the trooper found approximately 3 lbs. of marijuana and a quarter pound of hashish. The OSP Drug Enforcement Section is continuing the investigation.

According to Sergeant Brian Williams, on September 7, 2010 at approximately 1:40 p.m. an OSP senior trooper from the Burns office stopped a 1992 Isuzu Rodeo for traveling 72 mph in a 55 mph speed zone and fail to drive within a traffic lane on Highway 20 about nineteen miles west of Hines. The lone occupant was identified as driver RICHARD KNIGHT, age 44, from Missoula, Montana.

Subsequent investigation during the traffic stop led to the discovery of approximately 3 lbs. of marijuana, four ounces of hashish, digital scales and other related evidence. The marijuana (estimated value $7500) and hashish (estimated value $2500) were being transported in a large cooler inside the vehicle.

KNIGHT was arrested without incident for Unlawful Possession and Delivery of over an Ounce of Marijuana and lodged in the Harney County Jail.

Photograph Sources:
Knight photo - Harney County Sheriff's Office
Marijuana / Hashish photo - Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: Richard Knight , 2010-09/1002/38163/090710.hwy20mp110.mj.JPG

A Labor Day holiday weekend traffic stop by an Oregon State Police (OSP) trooper about eleven miles south of Klamath Falls led to the arrest of a Yakima, Washington man after the trooper found approximately 104 lbs. of marijuana inside the vehicle. An OSP Drug Enforcement Section detective is continuing the investigation.

On September 5, 2010 at approximately 2:15 p.m. an OSP trooper was patrolling northbound on Highway 97 near milepost 284 following a 1996 Ford Explorer displaying Washington license plates when the trooper saw the vehicle travel about 3 feet over the center line into the southbound lane. The trooper stopped the vehicle for failure to travel within a traffic lane and contacted the lone occupant/driver OSCAR DELACRUZ CRUZ, age 29, from Yakima, Washington.

Subsequent investigation related to the traffic stop led to the discovery of approximately 104 lbs. of marijuana inside three large bags located in the rear cargo area. The seized marijuana has an estimated value in excess of $250,000.

CRUZ was arrested and lodged at the Klamath County Jail for Unlawful Possession, Distribution and Manufacturing of Marijuana.

OSP traffic stops this summer have led to significant drug seizures including methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana. This is the third OSP traffic stop during the last 90 days leading to arrests after troopers found 100 pounds or more of marijuana. The other two traffic stops were:

* On August 7, 2010 at approximately 1:20 a.m. an OSP trooper stopped a 2004 Ford Expedition displaying California license plates for traffic violations northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 145 south of Rice Hill. Subsequent investigation during the traffic stop involved an OSP drug detection canine and led to the seizure of approximately 100 lbs. of marijuana in three large boxes with an estimated value of $250,000. A California man was arrested after he fled on foot and was overtaken by the trooper.

* On July 20, 2010 at approximately 4:38 a.m. an OSP trooper stopped a 2005 GMC pickup displaying California license plates for a speed violation northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 32. Subsequent investigation led to the seizure of approximately 102 lbs. of marijuana concealed under a blanket on the pickup's back seat with an estimated value in excess of $250,000. Two men, one from Washington and the other from California, were arrested.

Photograph Sources:
Cruz photo – Klamath County Sheriff's Office
Marijuana photo – Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-09/1002/38154/090510.hwy97mp283.mj.1.JPG , Oscar Delacruz Cruz

A renter at a Gates area house that was nearly destroyed by a fire August 30th was arrested by an Oregon State Police (OSP) Arson & Explosives detective Tuesday on an arson charge.

On September 7, 2010, OSP Detective Howard Greer arrested DANIEL TOBIAS McKINNEY, age 47, for one count of Arson in the First Degree, a Class A felony. The arrest followed an investigation by OSP Arson & Explosives Section, the Office of State Fire Marshal, Gates Rural Fire Department (GRFD), and Marion County Sheriff's Office into a structure fire on August 30, 2010 at 33639 Highway 22 near Maples Rest Area. The fire was reported at 6:26 p.m. and when GRFD firefighters arrived they encountered a structure with heavy fire and smoke. Firefighters from adjoining fire agencies assisted with suppression efforts. The fire was brought under control one hour later but the fire damage to the home is considered a total loss.

The investigation determined the fire was incendiary and intentional and identified McKINNEY, who had rented a room at the home for two months, as a suspect.

McKINNEY was arrested without incident and lodged in the Marion County Jail.

Photograph Source: Gates Rural Fire Department
(McKINNEY photo not available at this time)

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-09/1002/38125/083010.gates.1.JPG , 2010-09/1002/38125/083010.gates.2.JPG

Preliminary information indicates one person died on Oregon roadways during the 2010 Labor Day holiday 78-hour period as Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers, along with county deputies and city officers, wrapped up an extended national DUII and traffic safety enforcement effort. Since August 20th, Oregon law enforcement agencies teamed together with others around the country as part of the national campaign, "Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest." that ran through the Labor Day Holiday weekend ending September 6th.

Since 1970, ODOT's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) has been tracking major holiday traffic fatality statistics. According to those numbers, an average of 7 people die each year during the 78-hour Labor Day Holiday extended weekend which historically is the second deadliest major holiday of the year. Last year, 2 people died in Oregon traffic crashes and the year before there were 11 traffic-related deaths. The highest number of traffic fatalities for this holiday period was in 1978 when there were 17 deaths.

According to FARS statistics, this the third time in the last 40 years that there has been only one fatality during the Labor Day Holiday period. This year's known fatality happened early Sunday morning when a 20-year old Forest Grove man was hit by another vehicle after the man had gotten out of the car he was riding in on Tualatin Valley Highway. The Washington County Sheriff's Office is the lead investigating agency.

Historically, the Labor Day Holiday weekend is the second deadliest major holiday weekend in Oregon. Alcohol is a known contributing factor in over half of holiday traffic fatalities. During this year's Labor Day Holiday weekend, OSP troopers reported 67 DUII arrests, slightly down from 72 arrests reported last year. The Springfield Area Command office made a quarter of the OSP arrests reporting 17 DUII arrests. Other OSP offices reporting 3 or more DUII arrests were:

* Tualatin Work Site – 7
* Portland Area Command - 6
* Coos Bay Area Command – 3
* Grants Pass Work Site – 3
* Albany Area Command – 3
* Lakeview Work Site – 3
* The Dalles Area Command - 3

In addition to increased DUII enforcement efforts, OSP troopers worked with several county and city agencies targeting hazardous traffic violations. During the holiday weekend, preliminary enforcement statistics for OSP troopers show nearly 1,100 speed-related citations, more than 200 safety restraint citations and warnings, and 397 disabled motorists assisted. Troopers also responded to nearly 100 traffic crashes on Oregon freeways and secondary state highways, none of which were fatalities.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

(Note: Correction to show this happened early Tuesday morning)

Interstate 5 northbound lanes in the south Salem area were closed for about two hours early Tuesday morning when a travel trailer overturned blocking both lanes. No one was injured in the crash that was investigated by Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers.

According to OSP Trooper Anthony Pagano, on September 7, 2010 at approximately 12:30 a.m. a Ford F250 pickup driven by ANNAGAELLE L. MARSHALL, age 33, from Portland, was northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 249 when she said the 20-foot travel trailer began to sway side to side. As she braked to slow, the trailer jack-knifed and rolled onto its left side. The pickup and trailer blocked both northbound lanes.

Salem fire personnel assisted at the scene and assisted with re-routing traffic onto a detour. The driver and her husband who was sleeping in the pickup were not injured.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-09/1002/38099/090710.i5mp249.1.JPG , 2010-09/1002/38099/090710.i5mp249.2.JPG

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers and the Douglas County Medical Examiner are continuing the investigation into the death of JESSE GOLDEN, age 26, from Eugene, found deceased on the northbound shoulder of Interstate 5 about two miles north of Yoncalla underneath the Cox Road overpass. There is no evidence at this time that GOLDEN was struck by another vehicle, but his death may be associated with a fall or jump from the Cox Road overpass.

According to OSP Trooper Joseph Feland, preliminary information indicates on September 6, 2010 at approximately 3:05 a.m. a commercial truck driver traveling northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 156 saw the deceased man lying on the right northbound shoulder near a green 1994 Honda Accord. Unable to get cell phone service to contact police, the truck driver flagged down another motorist ten minutes later at which time they were able to call 9-1-1.

OSP troopers from the Roseburg Area Command office and North Douglas Fire Department personnel responded. One lane was blocked for about three hours with ODOT's help while troopers, assisted by the Douglas County Medical Examiner, investigated.

His next of kin were notified and the medical examiner is planning an autopsy to help confirm the manner and cause of death.

Anyone who may information regarding where GOLDEN was traveling from or who was traveling northbound on Interstate 5 in the area prior to 3:00 a.m. who saw the green 1994 Honda Accord stopped on right northbound shoulder near the Cox Road overpass is asked to call the OSP Southern Command Center dispatch at (541) 776-6111.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

A suicidal 45-year old Elmira-area man was rescued Friday night by Siuslaw fire and rescue personnel after Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers found the man on the side of a cliff after he had jumped from an ocean overlook parking lot along Highway 101 about two miles north of Florence. The man was transported to a Florence-area hospital for treatment of possible serious injuries and mental evaluation.

According to OSP Sergeant Chris Ashenfelter, on September 3, 2010 at 9:49 p.m. OSP Northern Command Center dispatch was notified by Lane County Sheriff's Office (LCSO) of an attempt to locate for the man and his vehicle after relatives reported he was suicidal. LCSO obtained information through cell phone use that the man may be north of Florence near the Sea Lion Caves.

At 10:13 p.m. OSP Trooper Justin Goldsmith and Trooper Joseph Conklin found the man's pickup parked on the west side of Highway 101 at the overlook parking area south of Sea Lion Caves about the same time family members arrived. Trooper Conklin spotted the man 50 – 75 feet down the estimated 1,000 foot cliff hanging upside down in dense brush. The man was not moving or responding to calls from troopers and his relatives.

Siuslaw Fire Department personnel responded to the scene and rappelled down to the man. He was alive and appeared to be seriously injured. Fire personnel brought him back to the top of the cliff where he was transported by ambulance to Peace Harbor Hospital in Florence.

Troopers and fire personnel believe if the man's fall wasn't stopped by the brush he was entangled in that he would have fallen to the ocean below. The man's name will not be released for medical and mental health reasons.

Troopers and fire personnel cleared the scene about 12:29 a.m. Questions regarding the rappel rescue should be directed to Siuslaw Fire Department.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Photograph Source: Klamath County Sheriff's Office

Oregon State Police (OSP) detectives arrested a 22-year old Klamath Falls woman after she was discharged from a local hospital on charges related to a Thursday night double fatal traffic crash in Klamath Falls. OSP troopers and detectives, with the assistance of the Klamath County District Attorney's Office, are continuing the investigation into the alcohol-involved crash that resulted in the death of a Dorris, California couple and critical injuries to their great-grandson.

On September 3, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. OSP Detective John Mogle and Detective Chris Kaber arrested CARRIE AMES, age 22, for two counts of Manslaughter in the First Degree, DUII, Assault in the Second Degree, and Assault in the Third Degree. She was lodged in the Klamath County Jail pending a circuit court arraignment. Questions regarding any court appearances or grand jury hearing should be directed to District Attorney Edwin Caleb at (541) 883-5147.

AMES' arrest is associated with an ongoing OSP investigation into a September 2, 2010 double fatal traffic crash at approximately 7:02 p.m. A 2009 Toyota Corolla driven by AMES was eastbound on the Southside Bypass near Washburn Way when it veered across the center line and collided head-on with a westbound 2000 Dodge Stratus driven by BILLY DON BARTON, age 66, from Dorris, California.

BILLY DON BARTON and his wife, DONNA BARTON, age 62, were pronounced deceased at the scene. Their 6-year old great-grandson, DABA PHILLIPS, also from Dorris, was critically injured. The victims were using safety restraints and the car's airbags deployed. DABA was in a child booster seat in the right rear seating location. He was transported by air ambulance to Doernbecher Children's Hospital in Portland.

AMES and passenger JACKIE MANKINS, age 18, from Klamath Falls, were transported by ground ambulance to Sky Lakes Medical Center with minor injuries. Both were using safety restraints and the car's airbags deployed.

OSP patrol troopers and Criminal Investigations Division detectives from Klamath Falls and Central Point area command offices are continuing the investigation with the assistance of the Klamath County District Attorney's Office.

Klamath County Sheriff's Office, Klamath Falls Police Department, Klamath County Fire District 1, and ODOT assisted at the scene. California Highway Patrol assisted OSP with next of kin notification.

Police officers in Oregon and around the country started stepping up impaired driving enforcement efforts August 20, and are keeping the pressure on through the holiday weekend, September 3 - 6. Coinciding with efforts to remove impaired drivers off the road is a statewide effort running August 30 through September 12 monitoring safety belt usage, with an emphasis on child passengers.

Labor Day holiday-related safety information and reminders were previously provided in a news release sent August 31. This release is available on our website at:
http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/NEWSRL/news/08_31_2010_pre_labor_day_holiday.shtml.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: Carrie Ames

An annual award from the conservation-based organization Shikar-Safari Club International honored a Bend-area Oregon State Police (OSP) trooper as the State's top conservation enforcement officer for 2009.

OSP Senior Trooper James Hayes was presented with the "Shikar-Safari Club International Wildlife Officer of the Year", given annually for more than 25 years to recognize outstanding game enforcement officers. The award was presented Thursday, September 2, at the Oregon Fish & Wildlife Commission meeting in Hillsboro by Shikar-Safari representative Lynn Loacker.

The annual award from the conservation-based organization honors an officer whose efforts during the previous year reflected outstanding performance and achievement among the state agency's sworn Fish and Wildlife law enforcement personnel. Trooper Hayes' selection by the Shikar-Safari Club International places him in a distinguished group who has earned this recognition for their commitment to fish and wildlife enforcement.

"Senior Trooper James Hayes is without a doubt a true professional and his actions exemplify what it means to be a State Trooper and a dedicated Fish and Wildlife officer. Senior Trooper Hayes performs at a high level every day and he always goes the extra mile to protect the natural resources and citizens of this state, said OSP Captain Jeff Samuels," director of the OSP Fish & Wildlife Division."

Hayes, age 36, joined OSP in 1999 and has worked in the Fish & Wildlife Division at the OSP Bend Area Command office since 2005. Earlier this week he was also selected as the OSP 2009 "Fish & Wildlife Division Officer of the Year".

Shikar-Safari Club International presents annual awards to wildlife law enforcement officers in all 50 states, 10 Canadian provinces and the territories of both nations. The club is an exclusive organization with a worldwide membership of no more than 200. The club originally formed in 1952 to provide members an opportunity to get together and talk about their hunting experiences, but has evolved into an organization that supports conservation and education through a worldwide foundation. Shikar-Safari Club International is recognized worldwide for its efforts in the protection, enhancement and preservation of wildlife, and has placed particular emphasis on endangered and threatened species through the promotion of enforcement of conservation laws and regulations.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police
Left to Right
Photo #1 - Lieutenant Randy Scorby, Senior Trooper James Hayes, Sergeant David Pond, Captain Jeff Samuels
Photo #2 - Senior Trooper James Hayes and Shikar-Safari representative Lynn Loacker

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-09/1002/38063/Shikar-Safari.Hayes.2.JPG , 2010-09/1002/38063/Shikar-Safari.Hayes.1.JPG

The following news release was issued Friday morning by Klamath County District Attorney Edwin Caleb. Questions regarding this update should be directed to his office at (541) 883-5147:

The Klamath County District Attorney's Office today charged CARRIE AMES, age 22, from Klamath Falls, with the crimes of two counts of Manslaughter in the First Degree for the vehicular homicides of BILLY DON BARTON, age 66, and his wife, DONNA BARTON, age 62, both from Dorris, California. In addition, charges of DUII, Assault in the Second Degree (for injuries to DABA PHILLIPS, age 6, a passenger in the BARTON's car) and Assault in the Third Degree for injuries to JACKIE MANKINS, age 18 (a passenger in AMES's vehicle) will be filed.

The defendant, CARRIE AMES, is currently at Sky Lakes Medical Center with minor injuries but will be arrested and jailed when released. The matter will be set for Grand Jury next week.

***

(Below is an earlier OSP news release with information regarding the double fatal traffic crash)

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers and detectives are continuing the investigation into a Klamath Falls-area Thursday evening fatal traffic crash that resulted in the death of a Dorris, California couple and critical injuries to their great-grandson. The offending driver and a passenger received minor injuries and alcohol is being investigated as a contributing factor. This crash is a reminder of why police officers in Oregon and around the country are stepping up enforcement efforts this holiday weekend to prevent crashes and remove impaired drivers from the road.

According to OSP Lieutenant Jason Westfall, on September 2, 2010 at approximately 7:02 p.m. a 2009 Toyota Corolla driven by CARRIE AMES, age 22, from Klamath Falls, was eastbound on the Southside Bypass near Washburn Way when it veered across the center line and collided head-on with a westbound 2000 Dodge Stratus driven by DON BARTON, age 66, from Dorris, California.

DON BARTON and his wife, DONNA BARTON, age 62, were pronounced deceased at the scene. Their 6-year old great-grandson, DABA PHILLIPS, also from Dorris, was critically injured. The victims were using safety restraints and the car's airbags deployed. DABA was in a child booster seat in the right rear seating location. He was transported by air ambulance to Doernbecher Children's Hospital in Portland.

AMES and passenger JACKIE MANKINS, age 18, from Klamath Falls, were transported by ground ambulance to Sky Lakes Medical Center with minor injuries. Both were using safety restraints and the car's airbags deployed.

OSP patrol troopers and Criminal Investigations Division detectives from Klamath Falls and Central Point area command offices are continuing the investigation with the assistance of the Klamath County District Attorney's Office.

Klamath County Sheriff's Office, Klamath Falls Police Department, Klamath County Fire District 1, and ODOT assisted at the scene. California Highway Patrol assisted OSP with next of kin notification.

Police officers in Oregon and around the country started stepping up impaired driving enforcement efforts August 20, and are keeping the pressure on through the holiday weekend, September 3 - 6. Coinciding with efforts to remove impaired drivers off the road is a statewide effort running August 30 through September 12 monitoring safety belt usage, with an emphasis on child passengers.

Labor Day holiday-related safety information and reminders were previously provided in a news release sent August 31. This release is available on our website at:
http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/NEWSRL/news/08_31_2010_pre_labor_day_holiday.shtml.

No photographs available at this time.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Subsequent investigation with the medical examiner into August 25th's fatal traffic crash along Interstate 84 in the Corbett area confirmed the positive identification of a deceased driver as a 66-year old Stockton, California man. Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation.

On August 25, 2010 at approximately 9:37 p.m. a 2003 Honda Pilot displaying California license plates driven by JOSE L. HERNANDEZ, age 66, from Stockton, California was westbound on Interstate 84 near milepost 23 when it traveled off the north side of the freeway into a viewpoint parking area. The sport utility vehicle crashed into the left rear side of a parked semi-trailer and caught fire.

The truck's driver, RICHARD CLAY, age 30, from Effingham, Illinois was inside the truck's sleeper berth when he felt the impact and noticed the fire. CLAY was able to unhook the truck from the trailer and move it as the fire developed. He and others who stopped to help were unable to get to HERNANDEZ because of the fire.

Fire personnel from Corbett Fire Department and Multnomah County Rural Protection Fire District #14 responded and extinguished the fire that caused significant damage to the Honda Pilot and the rear third of the semi-trailer loaded with grocery products.

Multnomah County Sheriff's Office and ODOT assisted at the scene. Lanes in both directions were closed about an hour during fire suppression efforts. Eastbound lanes and one westbound lane were opened about 10:45 p.m.

The viewpoint parking lot remained closed during the night to coordinate scene clean up work.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37822/082510.fatal.i84mp23.JPG

(Note: Correction to Captain Samuels phone number to read 934-0221)

A Bend-area Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish & Wildlife Division trooper known by his supervisor as "one of the most diligent troopers I have ever met in locating and apprehending criminals", received the division's 2009 "Fish & Wildlife Division Officer of the Year" award. Senior Trooper James Hayes, age 36, was presented the award Tuesday by Captain Jeff Samuels, OSP Fish & Wildlife Division director, and his supervisor, Sergeant David Pond, during a presentation at the OSP Bend Area Command office.

This is the fourth annual presentation of the division's award based on criteria including professionalism, dedication to citizens and natural resources of our State, and work ethic. Nominations were received from around the State and reviewed by regional and General Headquarters staff before the announcement of the award recipient.

A member of the Central Oregon Team, a nine-member OSP F&W team selected today to receive the "2009 Fish & Wildlife Division Team of the Year" award; Hayes has been assigned in the F&W Division for seven of the 11 years he has worked for OSP. Pond noted that Hayes' work is an example of his well-rounded approach to keeping an eye out for people committing any type of crime or traffic offense.

During 2009, Senior Trooper Hayes investigated and successfully concluded a variety of cases including:

* A lengthy investigation into criminal fish & wildlife crimes in Oregon and Idaho that ultimately uncovered video tapes featuring at least four suspects involved in illegal taking of wildlife, and the seizure of taxidermy mounts of bear, deer, cougar, and moose. The suspects were charged with multiple crimes in Oregon and Idaho.
* While patrolling a highway east of Bend using Patrol Division overtime grant funds, Hayes stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation and noted a small amount of blood on the passenger door and an odor of fresh meat. Subsequent investigation revealed the two occupants had 3 antelope and a deer. Each faced charges for Illegal Possession of Antelope and Illegal Possession of Deer.
* Receiving a report from US Forest Service employees of two subjects putting deer meat into a vehicle, Hayes responded from over 100 miles away to investigate and asked two deputies to contact the subject until he could arrive. Using the meat's temperature obtained with a thermometer, Hayes determined the two bucks were killed at separate locations and were not road struck deer as had been first claimed. The suspects were charged with numerous fish & wildlife offenses.

Hayes joined OSP in 1999 when he was assigned in the Patrol Services Division at the Gilchrist work site. He transferred to the Fish & Wildlife Division at the Bend Area Command office in 2005.

Previous honorees were Trooper Marc Boyd from the Springfield Area Command office (2008), Sergeant Todd Hoodenpyl from the Tillamook work site (2007), and the award's first recipient in 2006, Luke Schwartz who is now assigned as a Patrol Sergeant at the Tualatin work site.

The primary responsibility of the Fish & Wildlife Division is enforcement of fish, wildlife, and commercial fishing laws and protection of natural resources. The members of the Fish and Wildlife Division also enforce traffic, criminal, boating, livestock and environmental protection laws in addition to responding to emergency situations.

Photograph of Senior Trooper Hayes – Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37947/Hayes.2009FWTprofYear.JPG

(Team Photo left to right:
Top row – Senior Trooper Lindberg, East Region F&W Lt. Randy Scorby, Trooper Travis Ring, Senior Trooper Greg Love, Senior Trooper Rich Young, and Senior Trooper Andrew Menlow
Bottom row – Senior Trooper Mark Prodzinski, Senior Trooper James Hayes, and Sergeant David Pond
Not pictured: Senior Trooper Amos Madison)

(Correction to Captain Samuels phone number to read 934-0221)

****

The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife (OSP F&W) Division recognized the exceptional work of troopers from the Central Oregon Team (COT) today when Captain Jeff Samuels announced today they were the recipients of the Division's Team of the Year award for 2009. This is the fourth presentation of the award since the OSP F&W Division implemented a new program celebrating and recognizing the outstanding teamwork by our troopers in protecting Oregon's natural resources.

Supervised by Sergeant David Pond, the nine-member Central Oregon Team is comprised of one sergeant and 8 troopers assigned to OSP offices in Bend, Madras and Prineville. Challenged by diverse natural resource enforcement issues in this fast growing area of the state, COT members work closely with members of neighboring fish & wildlife enforcement teams and are very involved in their communities with local user groups and the media. Team members maintain a cooperative working relationship with the Warm Springs Tribe, US Forest Service, BLM, and Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife, and are very active with the local Oregon Hunter's Association Chapters giving presentations on enforcement and protection efforts.

In making the surprise announcement to COT members at the OSP Bend Area Command office, Samuels said "this award reflects your teamwork, leadership, work ethic, commitment and overall professionalism."

Ranging from 5 to 28 years of OSP service, the following OSP F&W Central Oregon Team members have a total of 129 years of law enforcement experience:

* Sergeant David Pond (OSP Bend)
* Senior Trooper James Hayes (OSP Bend)
* Senior Trooper Greg Love (OSP Bend)
* Senior Trooper Andrew Menlow (OSP Bend)
* Trooper Travis Ring (OSP Bend)
* Senior Trooper Mark Prodzinski (OSP Madras)
* Senior Trooper Chuck Lindberg (OSP Madras)
* Senior Trooper Amos Madison (OSP Prineville)
* Senior Trooper Rich Young (OSP Prineville)

Some of the year's highlights involving the Central Oregon Team were:

* Senior Trooper James Hayes received a report of a person that shot a 4x4 buck at Oatman Flats. Thinking it was strange that the person would drive over irrigation pipes to retrieve the shot buck, the complainant video taped the person leaving providing important evidence to help identify the vehicle. Hayes provided the vehicle's description to OSP patrol troopers in the Oakridge area who spotted and stopped the vehicle, finding a large 4x4 buck and the weapon used to shoot it. Hayes responded to the stop location and developed further information that led to a search warrant being served at the suspect's residence where troopers later found evidence of four unlawfully taken blacktail deer bucks, seizing deer meat, antlers, and other evidence. The suspect was charged with Theft in the First Degree (3 counts), Unlawfully Taking Deer (4 counts), Unlawfully Taking Elk (2 counts, and Theft of Lost, Mislaid Property.
* Assigned to work the lower Deschutes River from May through November, Senior Trooper Chuck Lindberg works closely with BLM and the Warm Springs Tribe to provide enforcement protection on this 100 mile wild and scenic stretch. Lindberg is very active on the river with fish & wildlife, criminal and traffic enforcement, wild and scenic waterway rules, and Marine Board enforcement. OSP receives consistent praise from area partners and the Lower Deschutes River Managers Group for its enforcement efforts and work to maintaining a family atmosphere on the river.
* Senior Trooper Andrew Menlow, an OSP pilot assigned to the Fish & Wildlife Division, frequently assists other trooper and partner agencies with flight needs, and is called upon to assist local law enforcement with search & rescue operations and aerial searches.
* As part of an investigation involving the illegal possession of a deer, the COT team developed suspects and learned one of them had bragged about killing a cow elk with a bow and arrow without having the required elk tag. A search warrant was obtained and led to recovering evidence of the illegally taken elk. Upon the investigation's conclusion, the suspects were facing several charges including Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Deer, and Taking Elk without a Valid Tag.

Last year's recipient was the Mid-Coast Team comprised of six troopers working out of Tillamook, McMinnville and North Plains.

To learn more about the OSP Fish & Wildlife Division, including a link to monthly newsletters highlighting the work of your OSP Fish & Wildlife troopers, go to our website at http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/FW/index.shtml .

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

The Oregon State Police is a full-service public safety agency providing diverse services to the citizens of Oregon. Our mission is to enhance livability and safety by protecting the people, property, and natural resources of the state. To realize our vision and accomplish our mission our objectives are to BE THERE (be ready and able to respond to the increasing needs of Oregonians); PREVENT HARM (engage in vigilant enforcement of laws and regulations while making Oregon's roadways safe and reducing our citizen's exposure to crime, fire and disasters); and, SUPPORT OREGON COMMUNITIES (providing specialized services and assistance throughout Oregon in support of the statewide public safety infrastructure).

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37946/2009FWTeamofYear.COT.JPG

(Note: Media requests for ride-alongs or interviews should be directed to your local OSP office. A list of OSP office numbers is available in the Regional Contact Information link on our website)

***

Impaired driving is a serious problem, one that law enforcement officers in Oregon and around the country will continue to target through the Labor Day holiday weekend as part of a national campaign, "Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest.". This is one of two national traffic safety campaigns aimed to prevent and reduce injuries and deaths on our highways around the holiday weekend.

Police officers in Oregon and around the country started stepping up impaired driving enforcement efforts August 20, and are keeping the pressure on through the holiday weekend, September 3 - 6. Coinciding with efforts to remove impaired drivers off the road is a statewide effort running August 30 through September 12 monitoring safety belt usage, with an emphasis on child passengers.

Last year during the national crackdown period, Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers reported a 13 percent increase in the number of DUII arrests as compared to the previous year. The highly publicized enforcement efforts by Oregon police officers may have had an impact as the Labor Day holiday weekend approached. Prior to the holiday weekend OSP troopers reported a 60 percent jump in the number of reported DUII arrests, but during the holiday weekend reported DUII arrests dropped 18 percent drop compared to the 2008 Labor Day holiday period.

Fatal crash statistics tracked by ODOT's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) indicate the Labor Day holiday period is historically the second deadliest on Oregon roads. Since 1970, an average of seven traffic-related deaths happens in Oregon each year during the Labor Day holiday weekend. Last year, two people died on Oregon roads during the 78-hour reporting period, September 4 – 7. One victim was the lone occupant in a single vehicle rollover crash in Josephine County and the second was a pedestrian who died five days after being struck in Klamath County.

OSP Captain Joel Lujan, Patrol Services Division director, pointed out that while it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher in every state, impairment may start with the first drink, particularly when mixed with other substances.

"All too often, innocent people suffer tragic consequences and the loss of a loved one due to this careless disregard for human life. We continue our commitment to stopping this carnage, intensifying enforcement efforts and being especially vigilant during high-risk nighttime hours when impaired drivers are most likely to be on our roads," said Lujan.

The Transportation Safety Division (TSD) of ODOT supports Oregon's law enforcement agencies as they work together to crackdown on impaired drivers.

"We applaud all of our officers and those who support their enforcement efforts by planning ahead and pledging not to drink and drive. Everyone wins when our roads are safer," said Troy E. Costales, TSD administrator.

The Oregon State Police, Oregon State Sheriff's Association, Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police, and Oregon Department of Transportation offer the following safety reminders for holiday travel:

* Be watchful for emergency vehicles and workers. MOVE OVER if you are approaching any type of emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle which is stopped on the roadside with emergency lights activated.
* Get plenty of rest before starting out. Fatigued drivers are more frequent during holiday weekends because of increased travel and activity. Allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
* Be aware that ODOT is in the midst of the busiest highway construction season ever. Stay up to date on road conditions by visiting TripCheck.com or calling 5-1-1. Outside Oregon, dial (503) 588-2941. Even when workers are not present, all work zone speed limits still apply and fines double. Inactive work zones still have equipment, detours, and incomplete changes in the roadway so drivers need to slow down and be alert.
* Know before you go. When traveling anywhere, plan ahead and take know routes if possible. Visiting TripCheck.com on the Internet provides information on road and weather conditions, incidents and traffic delays, and links to numerous cameras along major routes.
* Buckle up every trip, every time. Be sure to use child safety seats correctly.
* Don't drink and drive.

Lujan urged everyone to play an important part in keeping our highways and city streets safe by immediately reporting aggressive, dangerous, and intoxicated drivers to the Oregon State Police at 1-800-24DRUNK (1-800-243-7865) or call 9-1-1.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37940/OSP.Badge.jpg

An Oregon State Police (OSP) traffic stop for violation of Oregon's cell phone law led to the seizure of approximately 2 lbs. of marijuana and the arrest of an Olympia, Washington man Monday afternoon on Highway 26 west of Sandy.

On August 30, 2010 at approximately 12 noon an OSP trooper stopped a black Nissan Frontier pickup displaying Washington license plates for unlawful use of a mobile communication device (cell phone) on Highway 26 near Kelso Road. The driver, ZACHARY JOHN-RICHARD STOCKERT, age 26, from Olympia, Washington was displaying signs of impairment and the trooper noted an overwhelming odor of marijuana coming from inside the pickup.

Initial check with Oregon DMV indicated STOCKERT's driving privileges were suspended in Oregon. Subsequent further investigation led to his arrest for DUII-Drugs and the seizure of approximately 2 lbs. of marijuana inside two backpacks and a jar. The marijuana has an estimated value of $5,000.

STOCKERT was lodged at the Clackamas County Jail for DUII-Drugs and Unlawful Possession and Distribution of a Controlled Substance – Marijuana. He was also cited for Driving While Suspended, Driving Uninsured, and Unlawful Use of a Mobile Communication Device.

Photograph Source: Clackamas County Sheriff's Office

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: Stockert

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into a Sunday afternoon two vehicle head-on crash on Highway 22 five miles west of Detroit that resulted in the death of a Detroit-area man.

On August 29, 2010 at approximately 3:40 p.m. a 2009 Toyota Avalon driven by RONALD DUANE GALBRAITH, age 73, from Detroit, was eastbound on Highway 22 near milepost 40 when, for an unknown reason, it crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a westbound 2004 Dodge Ram pickup driven by CHRISTOPHER D. BOND, age 38, from Albany. Shortly after the crash, an on-duty OSP Fish & Wildlife trooper drove upon the scene and began coordinating emergency response.

GALBRAITH was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was using safety restraints.

CHRISTOPHER BOND was accompanied by his wife CHRISTY BOND, age 37, and their 8-year old son. All three were using safety restraints. CHRISTOPHER was transported by an OSP Fish & Wildlife Division trooper to Santiam Hospital for a medical evaluation but he was not admitted. His wife and son were not injured.

OSP troopers from the Salem Area Command office are investigating. Gates Fire Department assisted at the scene.

Highway 22 was restricted to one lane of traffic for about 2 1/2 hours during the scene investigation.

Crisis Chaplaincy Services helped with next of kin notification.

No photographs available at this time.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into the cause of a Friday afternoon two vehicle fatal traffic crash on Highway 30 near Woodson Road about five miles west of Clatskanie. A 57-year old Camas, Washington man was killed in the crash and the other driver was critically injured.

According to OSP Senior Trooper Randy Fargher, on August 28, 2010 at approximately 5:54 p.m. a 1978 Ford Courier pickup driven by JEFFERY KIMBALL, age 60, from north Portland, was westbound on Highway 30 near milepost 68 when it crossed the centerline and crashed into an eastbound 1989 Honda Accord four-door driven by HANS SUNDQVIST, age 57, from Camas, Washington.

SUNDQVIST was pronounced deceased at the scene. Washington State Patrol troopers assisted OSP with next of kin notification.

KIMBALL was transported by LifeFlight to Legacy Emanuel Hospital with critical injuries.

Safety restraint use information pending investigation confirmation.

The highway was closed for four hours during the investigation by OSP troopers from the St. Helens and Astoria offices.

Clatskanie Police Department, Clatskanie Fire Department and ODOT assisted at the scene.

No photographs available for this release.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Oregon State Police was notified Friday that former Eugene mayor, RUTH BASCOM, died Thursday night from injuries she sustained in an August 11th traffic crash fifteen miles north of Burns. OSP is continuing the investigation involving the crash in which here husband was driving their car and he received minor injuries.

Initial investigation indicates on August 11, 2010 at approximately 4:30 p.m. a 2009 Toyota Prius driven by JOHN BASCOM, age 85, from Eugene, was southbound on Highway 395 near milepost 56 when he reportedly fell asleep. The car traveled across the northbound lane, off the highway and struck several road side boulders and trees. Passenger RUTH BASCOM, age 84, was seriously injured and taken by ambulance to Harney District Hospital in Burns, before being transferred by air ambulance to St. Charles Medical Center for further treatment.

RUTH BASCOM died Thursday night, August 26, from her injuries.

JOHN BASCOM was transported by ambulance to Harney District Hospital with minor injuries.

Both individuals were using safety restraints.

RUTH BASCOM was the first woman mayor of Eugene, serving their community as mayor from 1993 – 1996.

No photographs or other information is available for release.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

For the third year, the Oregon State Police - Missing Children Clearinghouse will hand out free Children Identification Kits, available in Spanish and English, during the 2010 Oregon State Fair in Salem. In addition to handing out kits on two separate dates mentioned below, State Police employees will also offer to take and print photographs of a child to place inside the kit to take home. The Child ID Kits will be made available on the listed dates at the Oregon State Police table located near the amphitheater.

During the last two years, 14,000 free Children Identification Kits and 3,200 brochures were handed out by OSP at the state fair. The ID Complete Child Identification and DNA kits contain the cheek swab for DNA collection, and the kits only take a few minutes to fill out with valuable information useful to police in the event that a child is missing.

"As of today there are approximately 800 kids under the age of 18 listed in LEDS/NCIC as missing by Oregon law enforcement area agencies of which over 92 percent are runaways 4 - 5 percent are victims of custodial interference, and the remaining are missing under unknown circumstances," says Judy Hayes of the Oregon State Police Missing Children Clearinghouse. "These kits continue to be a wonderful proactive method to be prepared in case your child ever becomes missing, and they are also a great way to help open up communication lines with your children regarding child safety."

The free child ID Complete kits will be available on the following dates and times:

* Monday, August 30th, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
* Wednesday, September 1st, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The child ID Complete kits were purchased with money raised during the annual Oregon State Police Missing Children Golf Benefit held in Salem last month, raising $12,500 which was the second highest amount in the benefit's twelve years. This year's golf benefit fundraiser will help purchase approximately 18,000 ID Complete Kits available for distribution through the Missing Children Clearinghouse.

Parents and families not attending the Oregon State Fair may obtain a child ID Complete kit from the Oregon State Police - Missing Children Clearinghouse at (503) 934-0188 or outside Salem at 1-800-282-7155 or e-mail child.idkits@state.or.us. Please provide your name, address, number of kits needed and a call back phone number when making a request.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37846/CompleteIDkit.front.JPG , 2010-08/1002/37846/CompleteIDkit.open.JPG , 2010-08/1002/37846/CompleteIDkit.back.jpg

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers from the Albany Area Command office are continuing the investigation into Wednesday morning's fatal traffic crash on Highway 20 just west of Blodgett involving an unloaded log truck and passenger vehicle. The crash resulted in the death of a 57-year old Redmond-area man.

According to OSP Lieutenant Mark Cotter, on August 25, 2010 at approximately 9:50 a.m. a 2007 Honda Ridgeline driven by DUANE ASLE HAUGEN, age 57, from Redmond, was eastbound on Highway 20 near milepost 37 when it crossed the centerline and collided with an unloaded westbound 1984 Peterbilt truck. HAUGEN was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was using safety restraints and his vehicle's airbags deployed.

Truck driver MICHAEL BROWN, age 57, from Philomath, was transported by REACH air ambulance to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis with non-life threatening injuries. Safety restraint use is pending investigation confirmation.

OSP troopers were assisted at the scene by Benton County Sheriff's Office, Corvallis Police Department, Philomath Fire Department, Blodgett Fire Department, and ODOT. NW Firefighters Environmental responded to handle a diesel spill at the scene.

Highway 20 was closed for three hours until it was open to one lane for both directions. ODOT remained on scene coordinating clean up efforts until the highway was completedly open this afternoon.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37796/082510.fatal.hwy20mp37.2.JPG

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers from the Roseburg Area Command office are continuing the investigation into Wednesday morning's two vehicle fatal traffic crash on the Highway 42 overpass over Interstate 5 at exit 119 near Winston.

According to OSP Lieutenant Doug Ladd, on August 25, 2010 at approximately 8:45 a.m. a white 1997 Nissan Altima four-door driven by KINDALL S. BAKER, age 25, from Winston, was driving on the overpass to enter northbound Interstate 5 when it was struck head-on by a black 1990 Acura Integra two-door driven by JUSTIN M. BURKETT, age 21, from Roseburg. The Acura exited northbound Interstate 5 on a sweeping curve, crossed the double solid center line and crashed head-on into the Nissan.

BURKETT was not using safety restraints and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

BAKER was using safety restraints and was transported by ambulance to Mercy Medical Center in Roseburg with non-life threatening injuries.

Troopers and an OSP collision reconstructionist were assisted at the scene by Douglas County Sheriff's Office, ODOT and local emergency responders. The Highway 42 overpass was closed about three hours during the investigation.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37793/082510.fatal.hwy42.i5.jpg

Salem – Today Governor Ted Kulongoski announced the appointment of Chris P. Brown to the position of Superintendent of the Oregon State Police effective September 1, 2010 pending State Senate confirmation. Brown will assume the Department's leadership following the retirement of Superintendent Timothy McLain.

"Deputy Superintendent Chris Brown will provide the continuity of leadership needed for the Oregon State Police during these difficult economic times," Governor Ted Kulongoski said. "Chris also brings a valuable perspective from outside of the agency with his previous experience as a local Chief of Police and County Sheriff."

Superintendent McLain announced his retirement in July following over 31 years with the Oregon State Police, including nearly four years as the executive and administrative head of the Department since being appointed by Governor Kulongoski in 2006.

"Superintendent McLain has dedicated his career to the Oregon State Police and has been an exemplary Superintendent in challenging times," Governor Kulongoski said. "He has always put the safety of our citizens first and never lost touch with the troopers who put their lives at risk everyday for the safety of our communities."

Upon receiving Superintendent McLain's resignation, the Governor launched a recruitment process that included input from a variety of public safety stakeholders. Given the unique challenges that come with this uncertain economic time, as well as his diverse experience at the local, county and state levels, there was consistent and broad support for Brown to assume the role as the next Superintendent.

"During the last three years, Chris proved every day that he was a trusted advisor and leader during a time we faced, and continue to face, significant challenges," said McLain. "I leave at a time knowing that Governor Kulongoski's selection is putting the Department in very good hands. I have been proud to serve the Governor, the citizens of Oregon, our law enforcement partners, and the men and women of this proud agency."

Chris Brown had served as the Public Safety Service Bureau Commander for the Oregon State Police beginning in 2008. McLain appointed Brown as Deputy Superintendent in 2009 with responsibility for overall operations, policy and administration of the Department. Brown also previously served as Chief of Police for the City of Roseburg and as Sheriff of Douglas County.

Brown holds an Executive Certification from the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training, graduated from Northwest Christian College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Management, and served on numerous board and committees at the state and national levels. He is a certified instructor in professional subjects including leadership and supervision, ethics, and traumatic incident intervention.

Brown will be the 11th Superintendent in the Department's history since formation in 1931. A link to past Superintendents can be found at http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/past_superintendents.shtml

***

The Oregon State Police is a full-service public safety agency providing diverse services to the citizens of Oregon. Our mission is to enhance livability and safety by protecting the people, property, and natural resources of the state. To realize our vision and accomplish our mission our objectives are to BE THERE (be ready and able to respond to the increasing needs of Oregonians); PREVENT HARM (engage in vigilant enforcement of laws and regulations while making Oregon's roadways safe and reducing our citizen's exposure to crime, fire and disasters); and, SUPPORT OREGON COMMUNITIES (providing specialized services and assistance throughout Oregon in support of the statewide public safety infrastructure).

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: Superintendent Chris Brown

Oregon State Police (OSP) is seeking information to help locate the driver of a car that collided with a highway work zone traffic control reader board Monday morning on Interstate 5 in the Wilsonville area. Three people, including the suspected driver, fled on foot into the trees west of the freeway. A search located two individuals reported as passengers in the car.

According to OSP Senior Trooper Jeremy Richardson, on August 23, 2010 at approximately 6:15 a.m. a purple 1999 Honda Accord two-door was southbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 286 when it left the right side of the roadway and crashed into a traffic control reader board. After the collision witnesses reported three people fled the car on foot into a wooded area west of the freeway lanes.

An area search by OSP and Clackamas County Sheriff's Office located two people believed passengers in the car identified as DONALD WAYNE BAUGHMAN, age 40, from Eugene, and JONATHAN LAMBERT WIGGET, age 21, from Cottage Grove. The driver was not found.

BAUGHMAN and WIGGET were cited for Failure to Perform the Duties of a Witness and Unlawful Possession of less than an Ounce of Marijuana.

Traffic was narrowed to one lane for about 30 minutes. ODOT and Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue personnel assisted at the scene.

Anyone with information to help locate the unidentified driver is asked to call Senior Trooper Richardson at (503) 731-3020 ext. 427.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37740/082310.i5mp286.3.JPG , 2010-08/1002/37740/082310.i5mp286.4.JPG

A Sutherlin-area woman was seriously injured Sunday afternoon when the car she was riding in was involved in a single vehicle collision on Interstate 5 south of Rice Hill. Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers from the Roseburg Area Command office are continuing the investigation.

On August 22, 2010 at approximately 2:30 p.m. a 2004 Toyota Camry four-door driven by JAREN G. ORTIZ, age 21, from Sutherlin, was northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 145 negotiating a right curve when it veered close to the center barrier and ORTIZ lost control. The car left the east side of the freeway, rolled over once and slid on the driver's side until it struck a tree.

Right front passenger LATHENA J. WEBER, age 27, from Sutherlin, was seriously injured and transported by air ambulance to Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend.

Safety restraint use information and photographs not available for this release.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

A Glide-area man was arrested Monday morning by an Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish & Wildlife Division trooper after he fled on foot from a traffic stop on Highway 138E about four miles east of Glide.

On August 23, 2010 at approximately 10:30 a.m. OSP Senior Trooper Don Frerichs stopped a 1986 Dodge pickup on Highway 138E near milepost 22 for traffic violations. During contact with the driver, Frerichs noticed the passenger had an open container of alcohol in his possession. While speaking with passenger CHRISTOPHER LEE WAGONER, age 38, from Glide, he took off running with Frerichs pursuing him on foot. WAGONER ran through several back yards and then back onto Highway 138E where Frerichs took him into custody.

WAGONER was transported by an OSP patrol trooper to the Douglas County Jail where he was lodged for:

* Misdemeanor Attempt to Elude on Foot
* Interfering with a Police Officer
* Escape in the Third Degree

He was also cited for Failure to Wear Safety Belt and Possession of an Open Container of Alcohol in a Vehicle.

Photograph Source: Douglas County Sheriff's Office

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: Wagoner

Two Eagle Point-area women were arrested by Oregon State Police shortly after midnight Friday following an attempt to elude in a vehicle southbound on Interstate 5 near Glendale. In addition to driving-related charges, both women are facing charges after the trooper found small amounts of Ecstasy and Oxycodone in their possession.

On August 20, 2010 at approximately 12:27 a.m. OSP Trooper Brad Zuver observed a 2006 Kia four door southbound at 96 mph on Interstate 5 north of Glendale. Zuver attempted to stop the car but its driver failed to yield and sped up to over 115 mph attempting to elude southbound. The driver, later identified as BELLE-LINDA M. WALKER, age 38, from Eagle Point, turned off the car's lights and quickly pulled toward the Glendale off ramp in front of a commercial truck whose driver braked to avoid a collision. After exiting the freeway, the car stopped and both occupants were subsequently detained until cover units arrived.

WALKER was arrested for Felony Attempt to Elude in a Vehicle and Reckless Driving. She was also driving with a suspended license.

Zuver smelled an odor of marijuana in the car and found less than an ounce of marijuana and small amounts of Ecstasy and Oxycodone.

WALKER and passenger KORTNIE RAE SNYDER, age 20, from Eagle Point, were transported to the Douglas County Jail on the following charges:

WALKER
* Felony Attempt to Elude in a Vehicle
* Reckless Driving
* Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance
She was also cited for Driving While Suspended, Exceeding the Posted Speed Limit 115 mph in a 65 mph speed zone, and Possession of less than an Ounce of Marijuana.

SNYDER
* Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance
She was also cited for Possession of less than an Ounce of Marijuana.

Photograph Source: Douglas County Sheriff's Office

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: Walker , Snyder

Oregon State Police (OSP) were advised that an 18-year old Milwaukie girl critically injured August 5th when she was struck by a vehicle on Highway 99E at SE Roethe Road died Thursday night from her injuries. OSP troopers are continuing the investigation.

According to OSP Trooper Kimberly Long, on August 5, 2010 at approximately 3:05 a.m. a 2002 Ford Mustang driven by WAYNE A. LEACH, age 25, from Milwaukie, was southbound in right lane when it struck a female pedestrian in the middle of his lane. The pedestrian, AMANDA JEAN LAMB, age 18, from Milwaukie, was transported to Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU) with critical injuries.

LAMB died Thursday night at OHSU.

LEACH and his 54-year old male passenger were not injured. Both were using safety restraints.

OSP troopers from the Portland Area Command office were helped at the scene by Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, Clackamas Fire District #1, and AMR ambulance.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Two people were treated and released Wednesday following a crash on Highway 101 north of Florence involving four vehicles including a fully loaded chip truck that spilled most of its load on the other vehicles.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Sergeant Andy Kenyon, on August 18, 2010 at approximately 10:15 a.m. a fully loaded chip truck driven by DANIEL VADER, age 29, was northbound on Highway 101 near milepost 181 when VADER lost control in some sharp curves. The truck and trailer tipped onto its driver side, slid across the southbound lane into a scenic pullout where it struck a 2001 Ford Focus waiting to enter the highway. After colliding with the Ford, the trailer continued sliding toward the guardrail and struck an occupied parked 2010 Nissan Sentra pushing it up against the severely damaged guardrail where they came to a stop.

After all involved vehicles stopped, VADER got out of his overturned truck and immediately helped the Nissan's occupant, a 19-year old female tourist from Switzerland, out of her car. Neither person was injured.

The Ford's two occupants, TRAVIS WILSON, age 21, and his pregnant wife, SARAH WILSON, age 21, were treated at the scene by responding Siuslaw Fire Department and Western Lane Ambulance personnel before being transported by ambulance to Peace Harbor Hospital with minor injuries. Both were released late this afternoon.

OSP troopers from the Florence work site are continuing the investigation. ODOT handled traffic control while the highway was restricted to one lane of traffic for about four hours for removal of the vehicles.

Residential information for all the people was not available for this release.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37631/081810.hwy101mp181.2.JPG , 2010-08/1002/37631/081810.hwy101mp181.1.JPG , 2010-08/1002/37631/081810.hwy101mp181.3.JPG , 2010-08/1002/37631/081810.hwy101mp181.4.JPG

(Correction to spelling of first name to read "Michael")

Oregon State Police (OSP) with the assistance of the Douglas County Medical Examiner are continuing the investigation into the death of a Winston-area man from a suspected medical emergency while he was driving Tuesday night on Highway 42 about nineteen miles east of Powers.

On August 17, 2010 at approximately 9:15 p.m. OSP troopers were dispatched to a reported medical emergency on Highway 42 near milepost 47. Before arriving, responding medical personnel pronounced the man deceased at the scene.

Preliminary information indicates MICHAEL LAWRENCE EZEL, age 65, from Winston, was driving a Ford Ranger pickup eastbound on Highway 42 when he started suffering chest pains. Two witnesses, a husband and wife from Coquille, were traveling westbound when the saw a vehicle, the Ford Ranger pickup, flashing its lights at them. As they passed by they saw the pickup stop on the highway shoulder so they turned around and stopped behind it.

EZEL got out of his pickup and told them to call 911 because he thought he was having a heart attack. After calling 9-1-1, EZEL collapsed on the side of the road and the husband started CPR until relieved by emergency responders. EZEL was pronounced deceased at the scene.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

PGE crews advise Highway 47 south of Gaston between NE Flett Road and NE Wapato Road may be closed 4 – 5 hours following a non-injury incident on Highway 47 south of Gaston involving a truck putting two trailers loaded with hay bales. The closure is needed to allow for removal of power lines and replacement of damaged power poles. Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are completing the investigation and cited the involved truck driver.

According to OSP Senior Trooper Sean McIntyre, on August 17, 2010 at approximately 2:40 p.m., a truck driven by STEVEN PHIPPS, age 31, from Dayton, was northbound on Highway 47 near milepost 29. As the truck and two rear trailers negotiated a curve, the rear trailer drifted off the edge of the pavement and tipped on its side, spilling hay off the highway. The trailer rolled onto its top and was dragged while PHIPPS tried to safely stop. The trailer knocked down four power poles causing power lines to drop onto the highway and shoulder area.

Six to eight spot fires started on both sides of the highway. Gaston Fire Department personnel responded and extinguished the fires.

PHIPPS was cited for Careless Driving. He was driving for Creekside Valley Farms out of Carlton.

No other vehicles were involved or damaged.

OSP troopers were assisted by Yamhill County Sheriff's Office, Gaston Fire Department, PGE and ODOT.

Traffic updates may be found on www.tripcheck.com .

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37601/081710.hwy47.1.jpg

Oregon State Police (OSP) Sergeant Seth Cooney confirmed next of kin notification was completed for a Molalla-area man who died Saturday night in a fatal motorcycle crash westbound on Interstate 84 about eleven miles west of Pendleton. OSP troopers are continuing the investigation and have not determined a cause of the crash.

On August 14, 2010 at approximately 10:15 p.m. emergency responders were dispatched to a report of a motorcycle crash on near milepost 196. Preliminary investigation indicates there were no witnesses to the crash and a passing motorist found the victim on the gravel shoulder. For an unknown reason, the 2007 Harley Davidson motorcycle operated by ROBERT CODY SCHOONOVER, age 47, from Molalla, traveled off the roadway and along the gravel shoulder where SCHOONOVER lost control. The motorcycle slid and rolled before coming to rest on the gravel shoulder.

SCHOONOVER, who was operating the motorcycle with a suspended license, was wearing a protective helment. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

OSP troopers from the Pendleton Area Command office are continuing the investigation. Local emergency responders assisted at the scene.

Anyone with information related to the crash is asked to call Trooper Sharp at (541) 278-4090.

No photographs available for this release.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

Nine Oregon State Police (OSP) recruit troopers will graduate with 27 other law enforcement agencies' recruit officers Friday, August 20, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. from the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) basic police training program.

The eight men and one woman OSP recruit troopers will be reporting to their assignments at:

* Recruit Trooper William Bush, age 32 – St. Helens Work Site (Patrol Services Division)
* Recruit Trooper Nicholas Cederberg, age 25 – McMinnville Area Command Office (Patrol Services Division)
* Recruit Trooper Graham Chapman, age 30 – McMinnville Area Command Office (Patrol Services Division)
* Recruit Trooper Sabrina Criswell, age 24 – Klamath Falls Area Command Office (Patrol Services Division)
* Recruit Trooper Nicholas Hagedorn, age 25 – Gilchrist Work Site (Patrol Services Division)
* Recruit Trooper Joshua Nugent, age 32 – Central Point Area Command Office (Fish & Wildlife Division)
* Recruit Trooper Luke Pospisil, age 31 – Portland Area Command Office (Patrol Services Division)
* Recruit Trooper Timothy Reich, age 52 – Springfield Area Command Office (Patrol Services Division)
* Recruit Trooper Donald Rummer, age 41 – Albany Area Command Office (Patrol Services Division)

The Basic Police Class No. 319 started sixteen weeks of Basic Police Training April 26 and is the 28th fully-integrated basic police class facilitated by DPSST. The thirty-six new officers graduating represent:

* Oregon State Police (9)
* County sheriff departments (6)
* City police departments (20)
* Oregon Health Sciences University police (1)

Starting January 2007, OSP recruit trooper training incorporated Department specific training and the 16-week DPSST training program with newly hired city and county officers at the Oregon Public Safety Academy. In addition to OSP specific training they receive before and after Basic Police Training, OSP recruit troopers' also go through a two to three month field training program with veteran OSP trooper.

The graduation ceremony is at the Oregon Public Safety Academy, 4190 Aumsville Highway, in Salem where DPSST provides statutorily-required basic training to newly hired city police officers, county sheriff's deputies and OSP troopers.

Anyone interested in becoming an Oregon State Police Trooper may obtain more information on the OSP web site in the "Now Hiring" section. Starting April 1, 2010, the OSP recruit trooper application process went paperless with the activation of our online application process. The OSP recruiting website, www.osptrooper.com has a link to the application and additional OSP information, the application process, and who to contact with questions.

Questions regarding DPSST can be directed to DPSST Director Eriks Gabliks at (503) 378-2332.

****

The Oregon State Police is a full-service public safety agency providing diverse services to the citizens of Oregon. Our mission is to enhance livability and safety by protecting the people, property, and natural resources of the state. To realize our vision and accomplish our mission our objectives are to BE THERE (be ready and able to respond to the increasing needs of Oregonians); PREVENT HARM (engage in vigilant enforcement of laws and regulations while making Oregon's roadways safe and reducing our citizen's exposure to crime, fire and disasters); and, SUPPORT OREGON COMMUNITIES (providing specialized services and assistance throughout Oregon in support of the statewide public safety infrastructure).

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37556/OSPBadge.jpg

Following last week's news release and several media stories about four out-of-compliance registered sex offenders from Marion County, Oregon State Police (OSP) Trooper Eric Edelbrock reports two of the four individuals voluntarily came in to update their registration information, a third person was caught after trying to evade arrest in Lincoln County, and a fourth hasn't been found but several tips should lead to her whereabouts.

In late July, OSP troopers and detectives targeted 23 out-of-compliance registered sex offenders in Marion County during a special sweep leading to the arrest of five out-of-compliance offenders. Since the sweep, four registered sex offenders were being sought because they remained out of compliance with registration requirements.

Since August 11, Jesse Greenelsh Sr., age 36, and David Wentz, age 57, contacted the OSP Salem Area Command office after seeing the story in the Salem Statesman Journal newspaper and are now in compliance with their registration requirements.

A tip came in advising Andrew David Zamora, age 26, was working at a Depoe Bay-area restaurant using a different last name of "Cunningham". Edelbrock contacted OSP troopers at the Newport Area Command office and provided them with the tip information. On Sunday, August 15, OSP troopers went to the restaurant to find Zamora and he tried to slip out the back door but walked into the hands of an OSP trooper. Zamora was arrested and lodged in the Lincoln County Jail on a Probation Violation warrant and two counts of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Under the plan developed by Edelbrock, OSP detectives and troopers conducted the one-day sweep late July targeting 23 out-of-compliance registered sex offenders in Salem (17), Stayton (1), Aumsville (2), Woodburn (2), and Silverton(1) areas. Of the original 23 people, only one person, Valerie Regina Myers, age 34, has not been found but several tips came in and are being followed up to help find her.

Anyone with information regarding Myers location can contact Trooper Edelbrock at (503) 378-3387 ext. 31600.

Zamora Photograph Source - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: Andrew David Zamora

A Brookings-area man is facing multiple charges after crashing his sport utility vehicle Sunday afternoon into a power pole on Highway 99 south of Phoenix. Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers from the Central Point Area Command office are completing the investigation and will forward it to the Jackson County District Attorney's Office for prosecution.

According to OSP Trooper Heather West, on August 15, 2010 at approximately 2:40 p.m. a 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer driven by ROBERT DEGROOT, age 57, from Brookings, was southbound on Highway 99 near Cabbage Lane when it crossed the centerline. After traveling off the highway the Chevrolet sheared off a power pole, continued through three fences and came to a stop after impacting a tree. Impact to the power pole caused lines to come down causing the roadway to be closed for about 4 hours.

DEGROOT was transported by ambulance to a local area hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

OSP cited DEGROOT for DUII-Drugs, Reckless Driving and Criminal Mischief.

OSP was assisted at the scene by the local fire department, ODOT, Jackson County Sheriff's Office, Talent and Phoenix police departments, and the affected power company.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37550/081510.hwy99.cabbage.2.JPG , 2010-08/1002/37550/081510.hwy99.cabbage.1.JPG , 2010-08/1002/37550/081510.hwy99.cabbage.3.JPG

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into Friday morning's single vehicle traffic crash on Galloway Road west of Sandlake Road in Tillamook County. A 47-year old woman, who may have had a medical emergency while driving, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Her name is being released following notification to next of kin.

On August 13, 2010 at approximately 10:00 a.m. ROSY M. KENAGY, age 47, was driving from her nearby home in a 2005 Kia Sedona van eastbound on Galloway Road when she drove off the road and into a ditch causing minor damage to the vehicle. Personnel from Nestucca Rural Fire Department and Tillamook Ambulance responded and pronounced KENAGY deceased at the scene.

OSP troopers from the Tillamook work site will work with the medical examiner to confirm the cause of death.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37500/081310.sandlake.JPG

The Oregon State Police Criminal Investigations Division, with the assistance of the Jackson County Major Crimes Team, is investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred Wednesday morning when Jackson County Sheriff's Office deputies shot an armed man while entering an outdoor Mexican cartel marijuana grow site in northern Jackson County.

Preliminary information approved for release indicates on August 11, 2010 at approximately 7:00 a.m. deputies from the Jackson County Sheriff's Office SWAT and Marijuana Eradication teams were searching an outdoor marijuana grow site on BLM property north of Sams Valley. Deputies encountered an unidentified adult Hispanic male armed with a loaded shotgun. Two deputies reportedly shot at the man. A Jackson County SWAT medic rendered emergency medical aid but the man was pronounced deceased at the scene.

After the shooting, deputies saw a second unidentified adult Hispanic male fleeing on foot. He was not located and it is not known if he was armed.

The release of the involved deputies' names will be coordinated with the Jackson County Sheriff's Office. The deceased man's information will be released once he has been positively identified by the medical examiner and attempts to locate next of kin have been done.

The scene was secured as detectives from the OSP Criminal Investigations Division and Jackson County Major Crimes Team were activated to take over the investigation, pursuant to interagency protocols and requirements of Senate Bill 111. The interagency investigation is continuing and upon completion will be forwarded to the Jackson County District Attorney's Office for review and future consideration.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###

In late July, Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers and detectives targeted 23 out-of-compliance registered sex offenders in Marion County during a special sweep leading to the arrest of five out-of-compliance offenders. Since the sweep, four registered sex offenders are still being sought because they remain out of compliance with their registration requirements.

OSP Salem Area Command Trooper Eric Edelbrock developed the plan after researching and identifying 23 out-of-compliance registered sex offenders in Salem (17), Stayton (1), Aumsville (2), Woodburn (2), and Silverton(1) areas. The one-day sweep conducted July 30th found ten individuals whose registration information was updated, three others were identified as moving out of state, one was confirmed deceased, and ten others weren't located.

During the following week, some of the persons contacted law enforcement and updated their sex offender registration information. The following four persons remain out of compliance with their sex offender registration requirements and are subject to arrest for Failure to Register (ORS 181.599) if located:

Salem/Keizer area
* Valerie Regina Myers, age 34
* David Francis Wentz, age 57
* Andrew David Zamora, age 26

Aumsville
* Jesse Gib Greenelsh Sr., age 36

Anyone with information regarding the location of the mentioned non-compliant registered sex offenders can contact Trooper Edelbrock at (503) 378-3387 ext. 31600.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police Sex Offender Registration Unit

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37429/Myers,_Valerie.jpg , 2010-08/1002/37429/Wentz,_David.jpg , 2010-08/1002/37429/Zamora,_Andrew.jpg , 2010-08/1002/37429/Greenelsh,_Jesse.jpg

An Oregon State Police (OSP) traffic stop Tuesday morning near Yoncalla in northern Douglas County led to the arrest of a California man after he was found in possession of approximately one pound of methamphetamine.

According to OSP Lieutenant Doug Ladd, on August 10, 2010 at approximately 8:00 a.m. an OSP trooper stopped a 2008 Pontiac G6 displaying California license plates northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 152 for a speed violation. The driver was identified as DOUGLAS MAURICIO MELENDEZ, age 36, from Delano, California.

Subsequent investigation led to the discovery of approximately one pound of methamphetamine hidden in the trunk. Estimated value is $14,000.

MELENDEZ was arrested without incident and lodged in the Douglas County Jail for Unlawful Possession and Distribution of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine.

OSP troopers from the Roseburg Area Command office and Drug Enforcement Section detectives are continuing the investigation.

No photograph of MELENDEZ available on Douglas County Sheriff's Office inmate information website at this time. Bail is set at $150,000.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1002/37413/081010.i5mp152.meth.1.jpg

A nationwide Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution arrest warrant for auto theft has been issued for 26-year old Joseph Dean Roberts. Roberts is also a person of interest in connection with the disappearance of 45-year old Brittany Jeniveve Tavar. Tavar has been missing from the Jacksonville, Florida area since July 6, 2010.

Roberts has connections in the Northwest and investigators believe he may currently be in the area.

Roberts was last seen with the victim during the time frame of her disappearance and he told neighbors that he was the victim's nephew, however, that is not true according to family members contacted by the St. John's County (FL) Sheriff's Office. The victim along with her vehicle, a 2004 dark blue Toyota Rav4, and her two dogs went missing from her residence in the North Beach area of St. Augustine, Florida. Both dogs were recovered in Hopkins, South Carolina, July 10, 2010 and were traced back to the victim by microchips embedded in both dogs.

The investigation has revealed that after the dogs were located, a police officer at the Evanston Police Department in Wyoming conducted a traffic stop on the victim's vehicle, a dark blue Toyota Rav4, at 2:00 a.m. on July 11. At the time, Tavar had not been reported missing and Roberts, who was driving, was given a verbal warning for excessive speed. The victim was not in the vehicle at that time.

Approximately 12 hours later, Roberts entered a Wal-Mart in Ontario, Oregon where he purchased a tent, a vintage styled black t-shirt and tan cargo shorts. He was also seen in the store wearing a dark colored t-shirt and tan colored shorts. Roberts also filled the gas tank on the Toyota Rav4 before leaving Ontario.

A Nationwide alert has been issued for the suspect and the victim as the investigation continues. In addition, the victim's family has offered a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Roberts for the outstanding warrant. Roberts is described as a white male, 26 years old, 6'1" tall, 170 pounds with brown hair and hazel eyes. Tavar is a white female, 45- years-old, 5'7" tall, 120 pounds with blonde hair and brown eyes. The 2004 Toyota Rav4 has a Florida license plate of Q66 2NJ.

Anyone with information concerning this investigation or anyone with information on the whereabouts of Joseph Roberts or Brittany Tavar is asked to contact Detectives George Harrigan or Charles Brantley at the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office at (904) 824-8304.

Additional information about this investigation can be found at the St. John's County Sheriff's Office website at www.sjso.org.

You can also email tips to crimetips@sjso.org, or through your local Crime Stoppers.

Detectives George Harrigan and Charles Brantley are currently in Portland, Oregon meeting with local law enforcement and are available for media interviews. Detective Brantley can be reached at (904) 669-4437 and Detective Harrigan can be reached at (904) 669-1382.


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/3056/37404/Tent.jpg , 2010-08/3056/37404/Tavar.jpg , 2010-08/3056/37404/Roberts2.jpg , 2010-08/3056/37404/Roberts.jpg , 2010-08/3056/37404/Car_Front_view.jpg , 2010-08/3056/37404/Car_Back.jpg

Salem Fire Fighters responded to a residential structure fire located at 300 block of Illinois Ct. NE Salem, Oregon 97301 on August 21, 2010 at approximately 3:07 AM. First arriving fire fighters discovered the garage area of the residence was fully involved with fire and requested additional fire personnel to assist with the fire. Fire fighters battled the fire about 30 minutes before they had the fire under control.

The fire also caused damage to adjunct house and motor home.

23 Fire fighters were on the scene for about 2 hours handling the situation.

No injuries to occupants or firefighters were report at the time of the release.

A smoke detector alerted the seven occupants inside the house.

Red Cross was requested and provided assistance to seven adult who occupied the house where the fire occurred.

The fire caused approximately $150,000 loss to the structures and contents.

The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time

The Salem Police Department is asking for the public's help in identifying a heavy set Hispanic male wanted in connection with a burglary to an office in the 300 block of Court St NE that occurred in the middle of August. The suspect has very short hair and a very large tattoo of a cross on his upper right arm.

Anyone recognizing this suspect is asked to telephone Detective Tom Rousseau at (503)540-2355.


Attached Media Files: 2010-09/1095/38118/unknown_burglar.2.JPG , 2010-09/1095/38118/300_Court_St.JPG

UPDATE 4:15 PM:
Salem Police Department Detectives are working alongside Marion County Sheriff's Office Detectives to investigate a series of crimes that occurred in the Salem area this morning.

Following an early morning theft of beer from a convenience store, Salem Police responded to the Lancaster Mall where a male in his sixties was found deceased from apparent knife wounds. The victim has been identified, but his identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

At about 6:00 AM this morning, the Salem Police Department responded to a report of a man who was observed stumbling, then collapsing, in the parking lot of the Lancaster Mall, outside the Regal Cinemas, 831 Lancaster Dr NE. It has been determined that the man, who is in his sixties and has been identified, died of apparent knife wounds.

At about the same time that the Salem Police were enroute to the Mall, Marion County Sheriff's deputies were responding to a report of a stabbing that occurred in front of the Firebird Lanes, 4300 blk of Center St NE. That victim was transported to Salem Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

A few minutes later, the Marion County Sheriff's Office responded to a nearby residence on a report of a disturbance where three males were trying to start a fight. They departed in a vehicle prior to the deputies arrival, but were located a short distance away. These males, two 16 year olds and one 18 year old, are suspects in all of these crimes and are presently detained.

We do not believe there are any unaccounted for persons. This incident appears to be gang related, although the victim of the homicide and the victim of the stabbing were not gang involved. There is no indication that these two victims had any previous contact with the suspects.

No further details are being released. Detectives are currently working this investigation, which will continue into the evening. Additional information will most likely not be released until tomorrow morning. We ask for the media's patience as any premature release of information could hamper this on-going investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call Salem Police at (503)588-6050 or the Marion County Sheriff's Office at (503)588-5032.

###

Yesterday, just after 3:30 PM, the Salem Police Department responded to a report of a shooting at the Saddle Club Apartments, 4600 Campbell Dr SE. When police arrived they discovered that Jamison Nguyen, 23 years of age, had sustained a gunshot wound to his left leg and right arm. Nguyen was transported by medics to Salem Hospital, where he was treated and released for his injuries.

Witnesses described seeing the shooter leaving in an older black car with t-tops and paint in poor condition.

This morning at about 9:30, Officer Brian Montoya spotted a 1984 Datsun 300ZX with a bad black paint job and t-tops at Commercial and Bush St SE and made a traffic stop. It was determined the driver, Scott Farler, 40 years of age, was wanted by the Keizer Police Department in connection with a burglary attempt that had occurred earlier today in the 6400 block of 14th Av NE. Farler's son, James Harris, had already been taken into custody in Keizer.

Farler was taken into custody and initially transported to the Salem Police Department. Further investigative efforts conducted today have resulted in the determination that Farler is the suspected shooter of Nguyen, which apparently occurred during an attempt to rob medical marijuana.

Farler was subsequently booked into the Marion County Correctional Facility charged with two counts of Robbery I, Assault I, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

Anyone with additional information regarding crimes committed by Scott Farler is asked to call the Salem Police Department at (503)588-6050.


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1095/37775/Farler.JPG

Salem Police Department detectives are continuing the investigation into a stabbing that occurred early yesterday morning in the 2400 block of Ferry St SE. The victim and suspect had both fled the scene before police arrived on the call which was reported just after 12:30 AM. The victim, Kenneth Brost, 31 years of age, went to Salem Hospital at about 4:30 AM for the treatment of knife wounds.

Reynaldo Maldonado, 38 years of age, has been identified as a suspect. Maldonado is described as 5'10", 160 pounds, with black wavy shoulder length hair and brown eyes. He has a tattoo on the front of his neck that says, "Rey Dog." Anyone seeing Maldonado is asked to call 911.

Anyone with additional information regarding this stabbing is asked to call the Salem Police Department detectives at (503)588-6050.


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1095/37762/Reynaldo_Maldonado.jpg

Shortly after 3:30 this afternoon, the Salem Police Department responded to a report of a shooting at the Saddle Club Apartments, 4600 Campbell Dr SE. Police confirmed that a 23 year old male had been shot. He was transported to Salem Hospital where he is being treated for non-life threatening injuries.
At this time there is no indication this incident is gang related; however, it does not appear to be a random act of violence. Anyone with information concerning this shooting is asked to call the Salem Police Department at (503)588-6123.

Update: Attached are bank surveillance photos

An undisclosed amount of money was taken from the Umpqua Bank branch located at 2595 Lancaster Dr NE just before 1:30 this afternoon after a lone robber passed a note. No weapon was seen and no one was injured in the incident.

The suspect was described as a White male, early 50's with wrinkles on his face, approximately 5'7" tall and 180 pounds, clean shaven, wearing a navy blue baseball hat, a waist length brown denim jacket, and blue jeans.

Anyone with information on this robbery is asked to call the Salem Police Department at (503)588-6050.


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1095/37600/Umpqua_Bank.doc , 2010-08/1095/37600/Umpqua_Bank4

On August 12th, shortly before 10:00 am, a resident in the 700 block of Locust St NE was awakened by the noise of someone crawling through the bedroom window. When the resident confronted the intruder, he fled to the garage where he took the victim's brother's nearly new mountain bike to escape. Evidence led Detective Tom Johnson to believe the suspect was Hugh Ronald Cutsforth, 41 years of age, of Salem.

Cutsworth was scheduled for a routine visit with his Parole Officer this morning. Detectives Johnson and Cole Hughes went to the Parole Office where Cutsforth had arrived riding the stolen bicycle.

The bicycle was returned to the victim and Cutsforth was lodged at the Marion County Correctional Facility charged with Burglary I.


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1095/37596/Hugh_Cutsforth

Shortly after 10:30 AM this morning, Officer John Manitsas was turning westbound onto Walker Street NE from 25th, when he observed a red 1999 Honda Civic turning eastbound onto Walker Street NE from 24th. Upon seeing the marked police car, the driver of the Honda quickly placed the vehicle into reverse, backed up to 24th and accelerated. The pursuit went westbound on Chemeketa Street, northbound on 23rd Street to Breyman Street, southbound on 24th Street, westbound on Chemeketa Street to 23rd Street where the Honda crashed into a tree and the driver fled on foot.

Officer Manitsas chased the suspect on foot through backyards to the 2400 block of Walker Street NE where he was taken into custody. He was identified as 30 year old Evan Anderson, a transient. The Honda was a stolen vehicle, having been taken sometime during last night from an apartment complex in Bend.

On the second pass by the 300 block of 24th Street NE, Anderson drove southbound down the west sidewalk, damaging fences at three residences.

Anderson was transported to Salem Hospital to be medically cleared before being lodged at the Marion County Correctional Facility. Anderson is charged with Felony Elude, Misdemeanor Elude, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Reckless Endangerment, five counts of Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver, and five counts of Criminal Mischief II.


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1095/37594/Evan_Anderson.jpg

Bethany Storro, the Vancouver woman who was burned with acid last week, was discharged from the Oregon Burn Center at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center this afternoon.

Salem — Aug. 19, 2010 — From the psychological to the physical, get ready for a rehabilitation workout. Rehab Week, with the theme "Rehabilitation: Empowering your mind, body and wellness," runs from Friday, Sept. 10 through Friday, Sept. 17. More than ten free classes, taught by rehabilitation experts, will give you an opportunity to reflect, recharge and rejuvenate.

The week kicks off with Dr. Rick Hanson, neuropsychologist, discussing "stress-proofing" your brain for inner peace. Dr. Hanson is the author of "Buddha's Brain: The Practical Neuroscience of Love, Happiness and Wisdom." He will share how emotions affect your brain, how changes in your brain impact your immune system and what you can do to improve your psychological well-being. The forum, held at the Community Health Education Center (CHEC) on the Salem Hospital campus, is on Friday, Sept. 10, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Additional Rehab Week classes at the CHEC include:

Mon., Sept. 13, 5-7 p.m., "Cooking with arthritis," by John Fisher, occupational therapist

Mon., Sept. 13, 5:30-6:30 p.m., "Yoga for kids and parents," by Britt Collins, occupational therapist

Mon., Sept. 13, 5:30-6:30 p.m., "Cultivating happiness," by Ruth Leibowitz, PhD, psychologist

Tues., Sept. 14, 11 a.m.–noon, "Bouncing mamas," by Kelley Clark, physical therapist and Dawn Melvin, physical therapist assistant. This class is for post-delivery mothers wanting to recondition their bodies safely.

Tues., Sept. 14, 5:30-6:30 p.m., "Tai Chi for balance," by Linda Ward, physical therapist and Dina Triest, social worker

Wed., Sept. 15, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., "Fall prevention," by Julie Pflug, physical therapist

Wed., Sept. 15, 5:30-6:30 p.m., "Practical stress management," by Steve Besing, PhD, psychologist

Thurs., Sept. 16, 1:30-2:30 p.m., "Mindfulness meditation," by Kate Morris, PhD, psychologist

Thurs., Sept. 16, 5:30-6:30 p.m., "Strategies and exercises for individuals with Parkinson's disease," by Jason Gough, physical therapist; Cathy Wilson, occupational therapist; Nicole Collings, speech therapist

Fri., Sept. 17, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., "Infant massage," by Shannan Murphy-Barlow, occupational therapist

"Rehab Week provides opportunities for all ages to enrich themselves—both mind and body," says Kate Morris, PhD, Salem Hospital psychologist. "Rehabilitation services cover a broad spectrum of care throughout the lifespan. This week we offer the community an opportunity to experience several forms of this care."

Rehab Week classes are free. Space is limited and advance registration is required. To reserve a spot, please visit salemhealth.org/chec or call 503-814-CHEC (2432).

The CHEC is located on the Salem Hospital campus, 890 Oak St. SE, Building D, first floor. Parking is available under Building A or in the visitor parking garage on the corner of Mission Street Southeast and Capitol Street Southeast.

The Salem Hospital Regional Rehabilitation Center provides acute, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation as part of Salem Health. Salem Health includes Salem Hospital, West Valley Hospital, the Community Health Education Center, Willamette Health Partners and other affiliated healthcare organizations offering quality care to people in and around Oregon's Willamette Valley.
###

Salem — Salem Hospital today announced a purchase agreement with the State of Oregon on its intent to purchase the former site of the Oregon School for the Blind at a price of $6 million, following a period of due diligence.

Once the sale is final, the hospital plans to consider public and neighborhood input relative to long-term development of the 8.37-acre site, located at 700 Church Street, as it updates its campus plan. Salem Hospital's most likely use for the property in the next five years is partial development for a parking lot. Preliminary design concepts have taken into consideration the ideas of area neighbors (fact sheet follows).

"When the State of Oregon chose to sell the property, it made sense for us to consider a purchase," says Norm Gruber, CEO of Salem Health. "Since Salem Hospital is land-locked, the property could allow the hospital more flexibility in meeting the health care needs of future generations."

Salem Hospital has a 60-day period of due diligence to fully investigate the property. During this period, the hospital will complete detailed engineering, survey, title, cost and other studies to confirm the property is suitable for its needs. If Salem Hospital is satisfied with its review of the property, the sale could be final as early as mid-October.


Fact Sheet: Salem Hospital's preliminary plans for former site of Oregon School for the Blind

Salem Hospital's most likely use for the former site of the Oregon School for the Blind in the next five years is partial development for a parking lot. Although plans could change as more information about the property becomes available, Salem Hospital's understanding of the ideas of area neighbors and the City of Salem has contributed to the following design concepts:

1.Phased development. Development could be phased in over time, with the first part of the site being developed over the next year.

2.Preservation of Pringle Creek. Preliminary designs show a potential walkway along Pringle Creek, opposite from Pringle Park, along with a planted area as a buffer between the creek and parking areas.

3.Proposed Salem greenway. Preliminary designs offer options to fit with a proposed Salem greenway connecting five city parks.

4.Fit with surrounding neighborhood. Preliminary designs include a setback from the sidewalk, planted with trees and shrubs.

5.Historical considerations. Salem Hospital respects the site's historic use and will further research appropriate commemoration once the sale is final.

Salem Hospital hopes to work cooperatively with neighbors and the City of Salem in developing the property after the sale is final. Those with feedback or insights to offer are invited to contact Salem Hospital Community Relations at cr@salemhealth.org or 503-561-5269.

###

Eugene, Ore. – Emerald People's Utility District crews will be installing new electric wire over Interstate 5 just north of Beltline Highway from 11:30 p.m. on August 31, until 4:30 a.m. on September 1. During this time, motorists on I-5 should expect rolling slowdowns between mileposts 195 and 197 for northbound traffic and between mileposts 201 and 197 for southbound traffic. Flagging crews will be in place to aid traffic control.

The new electric line is being installed to re-establish the link between two District substations that was discontinued when Spores Bridge was built. Re-linking the two substations will provide redundant service to EPUD Customer-Owners in the area and increase system reliability.

Motorists are encouraged to exercise caution while crews are at work. For more information on EPUD utility projects, visit http://www.epud.org/newconstruction/currentJobs.aspx

###

Pacific Power media hotline: August 13, 2010
1-800-570-5838 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Six ways to beat the heat
Tips from Pacific Power to stay cool, use less energy and save money

PORTLAND, Ore. —With triple-digit temperatures forecast throughout the Northwest, Pacific Power wants to remind customers how to beat the heat, use less energy and save money.

1. Be air conditioner smart
• Set your thermostat at 78 degrees. Cooling your house below that temperature can increase your air conditioning bill as much as 8 percent.
• Don't turn off the air conditioner when you're gone; instead set it at 85 degrees. That setting allows your air conditioner to use less electricity to cool the house than if the air conditioning has been off all day.
• Use an air conditioner timer; set it to start bringing your home's temperature from 85 degrees down to 78 degrees no more than 30 minutes before you get home.
• Replace air conditioner filters once a month.
• Don't place lamps or televisions near the thermostat; they will impact its accuracy.
• Your air conditioner will operate most efficiently if you trim foliage to allow adequate air flow around the unit.
• Don't block inside distribution vents with furniture or other objects.

2. Don't let the sun shine in
• On warm days, close blinds and drapes, especially in south-facing windows which allow in the most heat.

3. Open windows in the evening and circulate cool air
• Open windows in evening and early morning to let in cool air. Be aware, however, of any safety or security issues.
• Use fans to bring in and circulate cool air. Ceiling and window fans use less electricity than an air conditioner when the compressor is engaged. Running an air conditioner in fan-only mode can also be effective as outside temperature drop.

4. Reduce the heat inside
• Use heat-using appliances like ovens, dishwashers and dryers in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
• Grill outside or use a microwave or toaster oven. A toaster oven uses one-third to one-half as much energy as a regular oven and releases less heat into the home.
• Turn off heat-generating devices when not in use, including lamps, televisions and computers.

5. Think for the long term
• Plant deciduous trees to shade the south side of your house. Well-placed trees can reduce cooling needs as much as 20 percent, and an air conditioner operating in the shade can use as much as 10 percent less electricity.
• Insulate floors, walls and attics to keep cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Seal and insulate air conditioning ducts that run through unconditioned spaces.
• Get your air conditioner tuned up annually.
• Consider a new air conditioner and other appliances — new models are more efficient and may lower your electric bill. Look for ENERGY STAR appliances.

6. Try these additional simple steps
• Switch to compact fluorescent bulbs, which use about one-quarter the energy of an incandescent bulb and last seven to 10 times as long.
• Switch your energy usage to off-peak hours (10 p.m. to 5 a.m.) whenever possible; use the dishwasher, washer and dryer in the early morning or late evening.
• Unplug items not in use, including cell phone and other chargers – even if they're not charging an item, they're drawing energy.
• Finally, check out Pacific Power's energy- and money-saving tips and programs at www.pacificpower.net.


-30-

About Pacific Power
Pacific Power is headquartered in Portland, and provides electric service to more than 730,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. It is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the U.S., providing approximately 1.7 million customers with reliable, efficient energy. The company works to meet growing energy demand while protecting and enhancing the environment. For more information, visit the Web site at www.pacificpower.net.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact:
Tom Gauntt, Pacific Power
503-813-7291


Pacific Power receives highest rating in customer satisfaction
National survey of industrial customers gives utility its highest score ever

PORTLAND, Ore. – Aug. 13, 2010 – For the second consecutive year, large industrial customers of Pacific Power, an operating utility of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company, have contributed the most to MidAmerican's ranking of No. 1 in the U.S. in overall customer satisfaction, according to TQS Research.
Pacific Power had the highest score among all the operating utilities in the U.S. with 97.5 percent of customers polled saying they were very satisfied, the highest score the company has achieved in the poll's history. This achievement contributed to the No. 1 ranking of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company.
TQS Research is an Atlanta-based independent research firm that polls large commercial and industrial customers of electric utilities for overall satisfaction. The annual TQS benchmark survey of the 60 largest utilities measures performance in critical areas, such as energy efficiency, account management, reliable power, price, handling customer contacts and company image.
Pacific Power's two sister utilities, Rocky Mountain Power and MidAmerican Energy Company, also scored high in the TQS Research, at 91.8 percent and 91.5 percent, respectively.
"The extraordinary effort of our employees who work with industrial customers is the reason for our success," said Pat Reiten, president of Pacific Power. "These employees understand the utility business and the specific needs of our larger customers that often require unique and creative solutions to serve customers well.
"Developing and maintaining excellent communication and customer service with all of our customers is a continuing goal for the company."– more –



Customer Satisfaction/Page 2

Greg Abel, president and CEO of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company, said, "In today's challenging economic environment, our customers rely on us to go above and beyond with customer service. The latest TQS results demonstrate that those efforts are recognized by our customers. Our employees deserve the credit for delivering exceptional customer service and high satisfaction levels. We are honored that a high percentage of our industrial customers are pleased with the service we provide."
Reiten added that Pacific Power strives to promote innovation and works with customers and communities to increase the visibility of renewable energy generation technologies through education and community outreach.

About Pacific Power
Pacific Power is headquartered in Portland, Ore., and provides electric service to more than 730,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. As part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the U.S., Pacific Power and Rocky Mountain Power provide more than 1.7 million customers in six Western states with reliable, efficient energy. PacifiCorp works to meet growing energy demand while protecting and enhancing the environment and was recently recognized as the second largest utility owner of wind power capacity in the nation.

About MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company
MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company, based in Des Moines, Iowa, is a global provider of energy services. Through its energy-related business platforms, MidAmerican provides electric and natural gas service to more than 6.9 million customers worldwide. These business platforms are Pacific Power, Rocky Mountain Power and PacifiCorp Energy, which comprise PacifiCorp; MidAmerican Energy Company; CE Electric UK; Northern Natural Gas Company; Kern River Gas Transmission Company; and CalEnergy. Information on MidAmerican is available at www.midamerican.com.

# # #

Portland, Ore. – At 1:38 this afternoon, within minutes of notification, two F-15C fighters from the Oregon Air National Guard's 142nd Fighter Wing scrambled in response to a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) violation in the vicinity of Seattle, Wash. The jets were under the direction of the North American Aerospace Defense Command.

Minutes after takeoff, they were cleared to accelerate to supersonic speed -- faster than the speed of sound. Thus, people from Longview, Wash. to the Puget Sound area heard a sonic boom.

Once within the TFR airspace, the jets remained in a holding pattern awaiting further guidance from the Western Air Defense Sector and Seattle Air Traffic Control Center. After moving their holding pattern overhead at Paine Field, Wash. they were eventually cleared back to Portland.

The F-15s returned to Portland Air National Guard Base and landed at 2:45 and 2:58. The 142nd Fighter Wing's mission continues as the F-15s are back on alert defending the skies of the Pacific Northwest.

The 142 Fighter Wing's mission is Air Defense of the Pacific Northwest from the Canadian border to California and out over the Pacific Ocean. As guardians of the Pacific Northwest, our Airman are on alert 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ready to respond at a moment's notice when requested.

For more information about our Wing please see our web site at http://www.142FW.ang.af.mil.

###

The 142FW will be conducting a news confrence at the Main Gate of the Portland Air National Guard Base at 1600 Local. This will be in response to this afternoon's F-15 Alert Scramble.

"Charles L. Deibert Aviation Operations Building" Dedicated During Reunion

Portland, OR - One of Oregon's most highly decorated Army National Guardsmen,
Major Charles "Larry" Deibert (ret.), will host the upcoming reunion of the 3rd Battalion, 26th Marines (3/26), Aug. 25 – 28, 2010. For reunion information go to www.326marines.org. Reunion attendees will witness the dedication of the Army National Guard's new "Charles L. Deibert Aviation Operations Building" on Sat., Aug. 28, at 11:30 am, in Salem, OR. All media are invited to attend.

Maj. Deibert received the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) for extraordinary heroism
in Vietnam on Sept. 10, 1967. With a radio call sign of Cat Killer-46, (then) U.S. Army pilot Captain Deibert directed critical air support for combat actions taking place just south of the Demilitarized Zone in an area now known as "Leatherneck Square," one of the most hotly contested areas in South Vietnam.

"I read Larry's citation in the Legion of Valor bi-monthly magazine in 1996," said Lt. Col. Andy DeBona, former member of the 3/26 Marines and recipient of the Navy Cross for his heroic actions on the ground in the very same battle. "It said he was awarded the DSC for the numerous American lives he saved and how he turned a possible defeat into a rout of the enemy as a result of his selfless actions. I realized at that moment it was my very own life he had saved."

"I called immediately. It took nearly 30 years for us to meet but our eternal bond was forged that day in Vietnam. I convinced him that he was a member of the 3/26 Marine group and that is how an Army National Guardsman is hosting a Marine reunion."

"The upcoming reunion is far from an ordinary event," said Deibert, "it'll be our own post-war version of the Band of Brothers. The bond that exists between all of us is indescribable. When you go through what we've been through, there is a unity only combat veterans - who stared death square in the face together - would understand."

DeBona and Deibert are lifelong members of the Legion of Valor of the United States of America, a prestigious, exclusive organization comprised of recipients of the nation's top two highest medals for valor. Less than 700 members throughout the U.S. belong to the LOV.

Major Deibert resides in Corbett, OR. As a National Guardsman who volunteered to serve in
the Vietnam War, he also received 25 air medals, 6 additional medals for heroism and numerous awards for meritorious service during his12 month tour of duty in Vietnam. He served as the
LOV National Commander 2001 - 2002. In 2003, the Secretary of the Army, Thomas E. White, appointed Mr. Deibert to the position of The Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (C.A.S.A.) for the state of Oregon, a position he still holds.

For more information see "Ambush Valley: I Corps Vietnam, 1967" by Eric Hammel
"LIMA – 6" by Col. R.D. Camp with Eric Hammel; www.historynet.com/3rd-battalion-26th-marine; www.legionofvalor..com/citation; www.thefreelibrary.com/ambushed+in+leatherneck+square

* * *

Photos of the just concluded exercise are attached.
Please contact tomt@theppigroup.com for copies if needed


Attached Media Files: Oregon CAP Cessna 182 search aircraft departs from the Aurora Airport south of Portland on a flight to the Oregon Coast to monitor simulated earthquake/tsunami damage during weekend training exercise , CAP search aircraft taxis at Aurora Airport in preparation to depart on a simulated mission during weekend exercise , CAP Cadet Group Team refuels CAP search aircraft in preparation for a new mission assignment at Aurora Airport

"This is only a test"....say the messages on our televisions and radios during the occasional times when our stations go silent in preparation for a potential emergency message " Had this been an actual emergency" continues the message as we silently wait for the test to conclude.

This was only a test for the CAP in Oregon as they conducted a state wide emergency training drill with a USAF team watching every move. And it was anything but silent. Aircraft engines roared and there was a beehive of activity at the Aurora and Medford airport CAP command centers as 75 teenaged cadet and adult senior members reacted to a simulated major earthquake and tsunami off the Oregon coast.

As the official USAF auxiliary, the Civil Air Patrol conducts over 90% of all air search and rescue missions in the continental United States saving 72 lives in 2009. Each year, the USAF conducts exercises across the country in each of the 50 CAP wings to test their capability to respond to such emergencies as natural disasters, search and rescue operations, Homeland Security missions. Man made disasters such as the BP Gulf Oil Crisis are also part of the CAP mission where CAP units in that part of the country assisted federal and state agencies in keeping tabs on damage caused by the tragic event.

In Oregon, the CAP teamed with Oregon's Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, DOGAMI, and the United States Coast Guard in responding to the simulated major eruption of the Cascadia Subduction Zone just off the Oregon coast.

"The (exercise) response is to a major earthquake on the Cascadia Subduction Zone, with the potential to trigger a significant tsunami on the coast and potentially widespread landslide activity in the Coast range, which would shut down major highway corridors that connect the Willamette Valley to the coast" said DOGAMI scientist, Jonathan Allan..

"The Oregon Civil Air Patrol, the US Coast Guard, and DOGAMI staff, will be conducting aerial surveillance of the coast, along the Columbia River, Highway 20 and 34 corridors and in southern Oregon for the purposes of collecting pre-event digital imagery as baseline data to prepare for when the next event occurs." continued Allan.

DOGAMI is one of the lead State agencies focused on defining and preparing for dealing with natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and extreme storms. Post-event documentation of potential natural disasters provides DOGAMI and other scientists with valuable information about the cause and effects of such events. This type of work results in improved hazard maps and information that can be used to safe-guard the environment, people and vulnerable infrastructure, like roads, bridges, utility lines and communications.

In the event of an actual disaster, the CAP would provide crucial airborne surveillance
and high resolution digital photography to allow federal, state and local emergency
agencies to evaluate the degree of damage and establish open transportation routes to provide emergency support. The CAP would also be able to transport emergency supplies and personnel to the affected locations as well as transport emergency officials.

" The training exercises that we perform each year are really important to not only
keep us current on our training and skills, but to assist us in pre-establishing important inter-agency working arrangements" said CAP spokesman, Lt Col. Tom Traver.
"A real world event is not a good time to have to experiment with practices, policies and procedures" he said. "We have also added working with the Military Auxiliary Radio Service
MARS" he said " They are able to add an important capability to our radio communications system in order to effectively distribute and receive crucial information out of the disaster impact area when normal lines of communication and internet services are in operative" said Traver

One of the newer systems being used by the CAP is the new Garmin 1000 all digital display avionics aircraft which has many enhancements over the traditional aircraft. The new state of the art aircraft come with built in programmable auto pilot to assist in plotting and flying precise search and rescue routes as well as terrain mapping systems to warn the aircrew of ground obstacles that increases crew flying safety." said Traver.

The Northern Command Center located at the Aurora Airport, had been developed over the past several years to provide a fully equipped operations center that could be activated on very short notice to provide a central base of operations for nearly any incident.

The CAP is a nationwide civilian, volunteer auxiliary of the United States Air Force flying the worlds largest fleet of over 535 single engine search and rescue aircraft. With over 60,000 members, the CAP provides air search and rescue, Homeland Security and disaster relief services in support of their states and local communities. Oregon has 800 members, teen aged cadets and adult senior officers, who participate in up to six training missions annually in support of the Oregon Office of Emergency Management as well as local jurisdictions who request assistance.

Civil Air Patrol training exercise photos attached.


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1184/37531/GTE_2010_WHEELS_UP.JPG , 2010-08/1184/37531/GTE_2010_WHEELS_3.JPG , Oregon CAP search aircraft goes airborne on a simulated air search and rescue flight out of Aurora State Airport duing state wide training exercise Saturdayh , CAP pilot Capt. Al Sander from Bend and Observers Major Janet Bell from Hillsboro and Lt. Steve Case from Salem make last minute notes in preparation to take off on a simulated search and rescue flight during the Oregon CAP training exercise this weeken , An Oregon CAP search aircraft taxis in preparation to depart Aurora State Airport on a simulated search and rescue mission during a major statewide training exercise Saturday

(AURORA, Ore. ) - The Oregon Wing of the Civil Air Patrol is conducting a major area wide multi-scenario training exercise this weekend, with 7 aircraft and ground teams operating out of both the Aurora State Airport north of Salem and the Medford Airport.

The exercise is focusing on multiple scenarios events encompassing a wide range of potential activities involving natural events as well as Homeland Security scenarios incorporating air operations, communications, ground teams, aerial photography and reconnaissance as well as base team support. Employing the use of seven aircraft and over 75 personnel from around the state, the CAP is operating from the CAP's regional
Command centers in Aurora and Medford.

This weekend, the simulated scenarios include a major earthquake and tsunami occuring just off the Oregon Coast along the Cascadia Subduction Zone causing substantial damage to the Oregon coastline and into the Willamette Valley. Working with the Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, DOGAMI, the CAP will assist in high resolution digital photographic mapping of the coastal areas and Willamette Valley with the photos also being used in real world future studies involving planning for future real events. Also involved this year is the United States Coast Guard which is also assisting with the exercise supporting DOGAMI in mapping and recording potential problem areas along the coast.

In the event of an actual disaster, the CAP would provide crucial airborne surveillance
and high resolution digital photography to allow federal, state and local emergency
agencies to evaluate the degree of damage and establish open transportation routes to provide emergency support. The CAP would also be able to transport emergency supplies and personnel to the affected locations as well as transport emergency officials.

" The training exercises that we perform each year are really important to not only
keep us current on our training and skills, but to assist us in pre-establishing important inter-agency working arrangements" said CAP spokesman, Lt Col. Tom Traver.
"A real world event is not a good time to have to experiment with practices, policies and procedures" he said.

One of the newer systems being used by the CAP is the new Garmin 1000 all digital display avionics aircraft which has many enhancements over the traditional aircraft. The new state of the art aircraft come with built in programmable auto pilot to assist in plotting and flying precise search and rescue routes as well as terrain mapping systems to warn the aircrew of ground obstacles that increases crew flying safety." said Traver.

The Northern Command Center located at the Aurora Airport, had been developed over the past several years to provide a fully equipped operations center that could be activated on very short notice to provide a central base of operations for nearly any incident.

The CAP is a nationwide civilian, volunteer auxiliary of the United States Air Force flying the worlds largest fleet of over 535 single engine search and rescue aircraft. With over 60,000 members, the CAP provides air search and rescue, Homeland Security and disaster relief services in support of their states and local communities. Oregon has 800 members, teen aged cadets and adult senior officers, who participate in up to six training missions annually in support of the Oregon Office of Emergency Management as well as local jurisdictions who request assistance.


PHOTO CAPTION

Civil Air Patrol personnel from the Salem Composite Squadron, Cadet Sgt. Calem Meneken and Cadet Sgt. Joseph Libby refuel an Oregon CAP search aircraft after
Returning from a mission. Flight Line supervisior Capt. James Hutches, also from
Salem, supervises the cadets to assure safe practices are followed during the refueling
Operation. CAP cadet ground crews provide an important service in "recycling" aircraft
for reassignment after returning from completing a mission.


Attached Media Files: Civil Air Patrol personnel from the Salem Composite Squadron, Cadet Sgt. Calem Meneken and Cadet Sgt. Joseph Libby refuel an Oregon CAP search aircraft after Returning from a mission. Flight Line supervisior Capt. James Hutches, also from Salem, supervi

OREGON CAP PREPARES FOR MAJOR EXERCISE

(Portland, OR)

The Oregon Wing of the Civil Air Patrol is gearing up for a major USAF monitored exercise this weekend to involve its state wide capability to conduct multiple emergency operations based on real world potential incidents.

A special USAF team will observe and advise the CAP wing on its ability to address numerous scenarios involving Homeland Security, Search and Rescue and Disaster Relief operations. The exercise is based on real world potential actions that would require the response capabilities of the wing to assist local and federal agencies in time of emergency.

Operating out of the CAP's Incident Command Center located at the Aurora Airport, the CAP will conduct aerial and ground operations across the state to respond to numerous fictional incidents that could involve elements of terrorist activities, air search and rescue as well as potential local natural disasters such as tsunamis and earthquakes.

For the third year in a row, the Oregon Civil Air Patrol will be working with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries studies (DOGAMI) as a part of their annual USAF monitored state wide training exercise.

"The Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries is one of the lead State agencies focused on defining and preparing for dealing with natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and extreme storms. Post-event documentation of potential natural disasters provides DOGAMI and other earth scientists with valuable information about the cause and effects of such events on the environment, including their effect on humans and infrastructure, and in the long-term will result in improved hazard maps that can be used to safe-guard the public. We are extremely fortunate to be able to further develop our relationship with the Civil Air Patrol and now the US Coast Guard, who are providing us with the means to mobilize rapidly in order to evaluate future disasters." said DOGAMI scientist Jonathan Allan. "

"The coastal hazards and Willamette Valley landslide exercise currently underway is simulating the response of a major earthquake on the Cascadia Subduction Zone, with the potential to trigger a significant tsunami on the coast and potentially widespread landslide activity in the Coast range shutting down major highway corridors that connect the Willamette Valley to the coast. The Oregon Civil Air Patrol, the US Coast Guard, and DOGAMI staff, will be conducting aerial surveillance of the coast, along the Columbia River, Highway 20 and 34 corridors and in southern Oregon as a practical exercise and for the purposes of collecting pre-event digital imagery as baseline data to prepare for when the next event occurs." he said.

"The realism of the exercise is further highlighted since DOGAMI recently implemented a multi-year study to revise and update its existing tsunami inundation maps for the purposes of developing the next generation of tsunami evacuation maps based on new and improved numerical models, high resolution digital elevation models, and ground-truthing these results against historical and geological records of past events. The results of this mapping effort will assist state and local emergency managers and the public-at-large to develop appropriate evacuation plans for how to respond to the next big one. In addition to establishing a working relationship with the Civil Air Patrol and the US Coast Guard, DOGAMI will be using the aerial photos in other ongoing mapping activities, including assessing potential damage to bridges and the industrial land adjacent to the Columbia River, for enhancing existing geological mapping efforts in southern Oregon, and for assessing coastal erosion and flood hazards." said Allan.

As the official civilian, volunteer auxiliary of the USAF, the U.S. CAP performs over 95% of all air search and rescue missions across the country as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center at Tyndal AFB. FL utilizing the world's largest fleet of over 535 single engined aircraft.

The Oregon wing is comprised of adult and teenaged members who participate in monthly training missions in support of the Oregon Office of Emergency Management as well as local jurisdictions who request assistance. For more information, please visit the national CAP website at www.GoCivilAirPatrol.com. or visit the Oregon CAP website at http://orwg.uscap.us/


Attached Media Files: Part of Oregon Civil Air Patrols fleet of specially equipped Cessna 182 search aircraft await assignment at the CAP ICP at the Aurora State Airport during a recent training activity. Official Oregon CAP Photo

OREGON CAP PREPARES FOR MAJOR EXERCISE

(Portland, OR)

The Oregon Wing of the Civil Air Patrol is gearing up for a major USAF monitored exercise this weekend to involve its state wide capability to conduct multiple emergency operations based on real world potential incidents.

A special USAF team will observe and advise the CAP wing on its ability to address numerous scenarios involving Homeland Security, Search and Rescue and Disaster Relief operations. The exercise is based on real world potential actions that would require the response capabilities of the wing to assist local and federal agencies in time of emergency.

Operating out of the CAP's Incident Command Center located at the Aurora Airport, the CAP will conduct aerial and ground operations across the state to respond to numerous fictional incidents that could involve elements of terrorist activities, air search and rescue as well as potential local natural disasters such as tsunamis and earthquakes.

For the third year in a row, the Oregon Civil Air Patrol will be working with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries studies (DOGAMI) as a part of their annual USAF monitored state wide training exercise.

"DOGAMI is one of the lead State agencies for dealing with natural disasters like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and landslides, and so it is very important that we develop a good working relationship with the CAP so that we can quickly evaluate future disasters." said chief DOGAMI scientist Ian Madin. "

The United States Coast Guard will also be participating in the exercise this year.

As the official civilian, volunteer auxiliary of the USAF, the U.S. CAP performs over 95% of all air search and rescue missions across the country as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center at Tyndal AFB. FL utilizing the world's largest fleet of over 535 single engined aircraft.

The Oregon wing is comprised of adult and teenaged members who participate in monthly training missions in support of the Oregon Office of Emergency Management as well as local jurisdictions who request assistance. For more information, please visit the national CAP website at www.GoCivilAirPatrol.com. or visit the Oregon CAP website at http://orwg.uscap.us/


Attached Media Files: 7 Specially equipped Cessna 182 search aircraft, such as these pictured from an earlier exercise, will be tasked with a vareity of realistic taskings as part of the state wide exerise this weekend.

Years of hard work have paid off for tsunami response on the Oregon coast. The Uniform Tsunami Warning
signal is now in place and local communities have up to five years to transition to the new standard signal. Risk to lives will be reduced by applying a uniform siren signal to inform the public of an approaching tsunami on the Oregon coast.

"Due to the recent earthquake events around the world, it has been clear the general public is uncertain how our alerting systems will work," said Althea Rizzo, Oregon Emergency Management Tsunami and Earthquake specialist.

Taking lessons learned from the States Amber Plan and working with local broadcast mediums, a work group, together since 2006, has worked toward the goal of creating a standardized warning system.

Under the direction of Oregon Emergency Management (OEM), a team of specialists has reviewed existing research and best practices on tsunami warning systems and decided on a uniform state signal that provides the necessary consistency to reduce potential conflicts and confusion. The new standard signal is the up-and-down wail that lasts for three minutes.

The siren test time is designed to roughly coincide with the weekly National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio tests. Tsunami warning sirens will be tested on the first Wednesday of each month at 11:00 a.m.

Based on Oregon Senate Bill 557, Section 2 the uniform tsunami warning signal administrative rules must specify type of signal, duration of signal, volume of signal and location of delivery device.

100828-A-6947H-001: Attendees of the Charles L. Deibert Operations Facility honor the colors during the playing of the National Anthem during the building's dedication ceremony, in Salem, Ore., Aug. 28. From right to left are: Oregon Governor Ted R. Kulongoski; Charles L. Deibert, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army; Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon; and Lt. Col. (ret.) Keith D. Bauder, Division Chief of the Combating Weapons of Mass Destruction Division, National Guard Bureau. The new facility replaces the Army Aviation Support Facility #1, just off Turner Road, adjacent to McNary Field in Salem. Oregon Army National Guard units, including the 2-641 Aviation Battalion and 102nd Civil Support Team are headquartered in the new building. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Zach Holden, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs).

100828-A-6947H-002: Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon (right), presents Charles L. Deibert, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, a photo of the newly-dedicated building named in his honor, at the facility's dedication ceremony, Aug. 28, in Salem, Ore. Deibert, a former member of the Oregon Army National Guard, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, among other recognition, for heroic actions as a reconnaissance pilot during the Vietnam conflict. The new facility replaces the Army Aviation Support Facility #1, just off Turner Road, adjacent to McNary Field in Salem. Oregon Army National Guard units, including the 2-641 Aviation Battalion and 102nd Civil Support Team are headquartered in the new building. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Zach Holden, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs).

100828-A-6947H-003: Oregon Governor Ted R. Kulongoski, (center left), Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon (center), and Charles L. Deibert, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (center right), stand among other guests and attendees for the ribbon cutting portion of the dedication ceremony for the Charles L. Deibert Operations Facility, Aug. 28, in Salem, Ore. The new facility replaces the Army Aviation Support Facility #1, just off Turner Road, adjacent to McNary Field in Salem. Oregon Army National Guard units, including the 2-641 Aviation Battalion and 102nd Civil Support Team are headquartered in the new building. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Zach Holden, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs).

100828-A-6947H-004: Oregon Governor Ted R. Kulongoski (center), Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon (center right), Charles L. Deibert, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (center left), Lt. Col. (ret.) Keith D. Bauder, Division Chief of the Combating Weapons of Mass Destruction Division, National Guard Bureau (right), and Warrant Officer-1 David McPherson, cut the ceremonial cake during the dedication ceremony for the Charles L. Deibert Operations Facility, Aug. 28, in Salem, Ore. The new facility replaces the Army Aviation Support Facility #1, just off Turner Road, adjacent to McNary Field in Salem. Oregon Army National Guard units, including the 2-641 Aviation Battalion and 102nd Civil Support Team are headquartered in the new building. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Zach Holden, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs).

100828-A-6947H-005: Oregon Governor Ted R. Kulongoski (left), stands with Charles L. Deibert, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, and his wife Suzanne, during the dedication ceremony of a new facility named in honor of Deibert, Aug. 28, in Salem, Ore. The Charles L. Deibert Operations Facility replaces an older building located just off Turner Road, adjacent to McNary Field in Salem. Oregon Army National Guard units, including the 2-641 Aviation Battalion and 102nd Civil Support Team are headquartered in the new building. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Zach Holden, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs).


To read the citation for the Distinguished Service Cross which was awarded to Deibert, visit: http://militarytimes.com/citations-medals-awards/recipient.php?recipientid=5208.

To view a video biography of Deibert's life, produced by the Oregon Military Department, visit: http://videos.oregonlive.com/oregonian/2010/08/vietnan_veteran_larry_deibert.html.


Attached Media Files: Oregon Governor Ted R. Kulongoski (left), stands with Charles L. Deibert, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, and his wife Suzanne, during the dedication ceremony of a new facility named in honor of Deibert, Aug. 28, in Salem, Ore. The Charles L. , Oregon Governor Ted R. Kulongoski (center), Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon (center right), Charles L. Deibert, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (center left), Lt. Col. (ret.) Keith D. Bauder, Division Chief of the Combat , Oregon Governor Ted R. Kulongoski, (center left), Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon (center), and Charles L. Deibert, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (center right), stand among other guests and attendees for the ribbon cu , Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon (right), presents Charles L. Deibert, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, a photo of the newly-dedicated building named in his honor, at the facility’s dedication ceremony, Aug. 28, in Salem, , Attendees of the Charles L. Deibert Operations Facility honor the colors during the playing of the National Anthem during the building’s dedication ceremony, in Salem, Ore., Aug. 28. From right to left are: Oregon Governor Ted R. Kulongoski; Charles L. D

Salem, Ore –- Governor Kulongoski has proclaimed September as National Preparedness Month (NPM), announced Oregon Emergency Management (OEM) today. NPM is held each September and is designed to raise awareness and promote action surrounding emergency preparedness among citizens, businesses and communities.

"NPM 2010 is focused on helping Americans understand what it truly means to be Ready, which includes putting together an emergency kit, making a family plan, being informed and getting involved," said Brigadier General Michael Caldwell, interim director of OEM. "OEM and other agencies around the state are encouraging citizens to take steps now to ensure that their family and community are prepared to care for each other during the next emergency."

OEM is a member of the National Preparedness Month Coalition and will be participating in emergency preparedness activities across the state. Membership is open to all public and private sector organizations. Groups and individuals can register to become members by visiting http://www.ready.gov/, and clicking on the National Preparedness Month banner.
To see a list of more than 3000 national, regional, tribal, state and local businesses and organizations which have pledged their support and joined the 2010 National Preparedness Month (NPM) Coalition please visit http://www.ready.gov/america/npm10/index.html

For more information on the Ready Campaign and NPM, please visit http://www.ready.gov/ or http://www.listo.gov/. Information is also available by phone at 1-800-BE-READY or 1-888-SE-LISTO. For information on Citizen Corps, to download the study and to find the over 2,300 local communities who have created Citizen Corps Councils to strengthen collaboration between government and civic leaders and to educate, train, and involve the public, please visit http://www.citizencorps.gov/.


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/962/37767/NatlPreparedness0910.pdf , 2010-08/962/37767/news_release_NPM_draft.doc

SALEM, Ore. -- The Fairchild Air Force Base Commissary is hosting an On-site Sale at the National Guard Armory in LaGrande, Oregon.

Location:
National Guard Armory (Airport)
404 12th Street
LaGrande, OR 97850-2802

Date:
Friday, Aug. 20th; Saturday, Aug. 21st; and Sunday, Aug. 22nd

Sale Hours:
9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

The sale is open to all National Guard and Reserve members, military retirees, active-duty military service members, and dependents. The sale is sponsored by the Fairchild Commissary.

The sale brings the benefit of commissaries to areas with military populations not served by a nearby commissary or post exchange. Sale items may include paper products, soap and cleaning products, canned goods, sodas, sport drinks, water, laundry detergents, and a variety of other products. Please check the local store information page for specific sale items.

Commissaries operated by the Defense Commissary Agency provide groceries at cost to military personnel, retirees, and their families at U.S. military installations around the world. Shoppers save of an average 30 percent or more on their purchases compared to commercial prices.

Customers must present an appropriate Department of Defense ID card that authorizes commissary privileges in order to shop. Cash, checks, debit cards and credit cards are accepted for payment.

SALEM, Ore --An Oregon Army National Guard helicopter, called in to support the Wallawa County Sheriff's Office in a search effort for a missing hiker who was found late this morning in the Eagle Cap Wilderness Area, airlifted and transported the 80-year-old man to the Grande Ronde Hospital in La Grande, Ore. at 11:23 a.m. today.

The hiker's medical condition is unknown at this time.

The UH-60 launched from the Salem Flight Facility at approximately 7 a.m. this morning to assist in the search for a 80-year-old hiker who was reported missing at 8 p.m. Friday evening by another hiker in the area.

The Union County Sheriff's Department helped coordinate the search efforts along with the Oregon National Guard.

The Wallawa County Sheriff's Department is the lead agency who coordinated all search efforts.

For the Army Fact File on the UH-60 Black Hawk go to:
http://www.army.mil/factfiles/equipment/aircraft/blackhawk.html.

High resolution photos can be obtained at:
http://dvidshub.net/image/308556/capt-john-w-brown-armory-dedication-ceremony


Attached Media Files: Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon, talks with men who had served with Capt. John W. Brown, at the dedication ceremony of the CPT John W. Brown Armory, Ontario, Ore. August 11. The newly constructed armory was dedicated to and named a , Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski (right), Joe Dominick, Mayor of Ontario, Ore. (center), and Congressman Greg Walden, Oregon Representative, discuss the highlights of the CPT John W. Brown Armory, Ontario, Ore. The newly constructed armory was dedicated to , Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon, Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski, Mrs. Geraldine Brown, widow of Capt. John W. Brown, and a Soldier from 3 Battalion, 116 Cavalry, cut the cake at the dedication ceremony of the CPT John W. Brown Armo , Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon, Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski, and Mrs. Geraldine Brown, widow of Capt. John W. Brown, among other military and state honored guests line up for the ceremonial ribbing cutting during the dedication , From left; Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon, Joe Dominick, Mayor of Ontario, Ore, Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski, Mrs. Geraldine Brown, widow of Capt. John W. Brown, and other family members of Capt. Brown, unveil commemorative phot

*** PHOTO RELEASE ***

100810F-1639C-426.JPG
Brig. Gen. Mohd Habibur Rahman Khan, Commandant of the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), speaks with Oregon Air National Guard Lt. Col. Mark Crosby (center), and Maj. Dan Schilling (right), at MIST headquarters, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Aug. 10. Schilling, who is the director of the Oregon National Guard's State Partnership Program, and Crosby, who is the Chief of Public Safety and Security for the Portland International Airport, met with senior academic and administrative leadership at MIST as a follow up to an Oregon visit by school administrators, and officials from Bangladesh's transportation sector in April. Crosby will take over as director of Oregon's program in November, 2010. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs).

100810F-1639C-465.JPG
Col. Moin Uddin (center), who is Dean of Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), highlights one of the school's electrical testing units for Oregon Air National Guard Maj. Dan Schilling (left), and Lt. Col. Mark Crosby, in the electrical engineering lab at MIST, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Aug. 10. Schilling, who is the director of the Oregon National Guard's State Partnership Program, and Crosby, who is the Chief of Public Safety and Security for the Portland International Airport, met with senior academic and administrative leadership at MIST as a follow up to an Oregon visit by school administrators, and officials from Bangladesh's transportation sector in April. Crosby will take over as director of Oregon's program in November, 2010. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs).

100810F-1639C-500.JPG
Group Captain Nepal Chamdra (center), Senior Instructor for Aeronautical Engineering at the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), greets Oregon Air National Guard Maj. Dan Schilling (left), and Lt. Col. Mark Crosby (lower left), in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Aug. 10. Schilling, who is the director of the Oregon National Guard's State Partnership Program, and Crosby, who is the Chief of Public Safety and Security for the Portland International Airport, met with senior academic and administrative leadership at MIST as a follow up to an Oregon visit by school administrators, and officials from Bangladesh's transportation sector in April. Chamdra is one of two Aeronautical Engineering instructors from the Indian Army teaching at MIST. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs).

100810F-1639C-541.JPG
Oregon Air National Guard Maj. Dan Schilling (right center), and Lt. Col. Mark Crosby, tour one of the computer engineering classrooms at the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Aug. 10. Schilling, who is the director of the Oregon National Guard's State Partnership Program, and Crosby, who is the Chief of Public Safety and Security for the Portland International Airport, met with senior academic and administrative leadership at MIST as a follow up to an Oregon visit by school administrators, and officials from Bangladesh's transportation sector in April. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs).

NOTE: A National Guard Bureau Fact Sheet on the State Partnership Program can be found at: http://www.ng.mil/media/factsheets/SPP.pdf

Oregon Military Department's press release on the March Bangladesh visit can be viewed at: http://www.oregon.gov/OMD/PressRelease/2010/03-09-10Press.shtml


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/962/37399/100810F-1639C-541.JPG , 2010-08/962/37399/100810F-1639C-500.JPG , 2010-08/962/37399/100810F-1639C-465.JPG , 2010-08/962/37399/100810F-1639C-426.JPG

SALEM, OR— Applications for the 2010 Oregon Sustainability Awards are now being accepted by Business Oregon on behalf of the Governor and the Oregon Sustainability Board.
Oregonians have always put great value on the long-term health of the environment in which they live, work and play, and therefore take the long view when making investments in economic development. Sustainability is an integrated concept in the strategic planning of most Oregon organizations and companies, but some are truly moving to the head of the pack. Governor Ted Kulongoski created the Sustainability Awards to recognize those outstanding efforts.

The Oregon Sustainability Awards are intended to promote and advance the inclusion of sustainable practices in government and the private sector. Any private, public, or non-profit organization is eligible to apply. Awards will be given based on merit, but organizations may be grouped by size and/or type in order to make comparing applicants more efficient and appropriate.

Winners must show a commitment to sustainability that goes beyond compliance with regulatory requirements. They will be innovators in their fields and show that becoming more sustainable is not in conflict with achieving the organization's core mission, whatever that may be. The Awards broadly defines sustainable practices as those that strive to optimize an organization's financial, environmental and social performance.

Last year's winners were Harry and David, Truitt Brothers, Duro-Last Roofing, Gingerich Farms, Washington County (Clean Water Services), the Gladstone School District and TEAM Klamath.

For more information and a downloadable application, please visit: www.oregon4biz.com/Sustainability/. Applications must be received by 5 p.m., Tuesday, October 5, 2010. Applicants should expect a response approximately two months after the deadline.

For additional information, please contact Business Oregon's Mark Brady at 503.229.5223 or mark.brady@state.or.us.


# # #


The Oregon Business Development Department works to create, retain, expand and attract businesses that provide sustainable, living-wage jobs for Oregonians through public-private partnerships, leveraged funding, and support of economic opportunities for Oregon companies and entrepreneurs. Visit www.oregon4biz.com for more information on doing business in Oregon.

For Immediate Release
September 8, 2010

Contact: Deb Vaughn, (503) 986-0085, deborah.vaughn@state.or.us
Christine D'Arcy, (503) 986-0087, christine.t.darcy@state.or.us

Governor Kulongoski Proclaims Arts in Education Week

Governor Ted Kulongoski has proclaimed the week of September 12-18, 2010 "Arts in Education Week," recognizing the vital role arts education plays in the social, physical and creative growth of Oregon students. His proclamation acknowledges passage of a July 26 US House of Representatives resolution designating the second week in September as "Arts in Education Week." That resolution confirms that arts education comprises a rich array of disciplines, including dance, music, theatre, media arts, literature, design, and visual arts, is a core academic subject and an essential element of a complete and balanced education for all students. The proclamation is available online at the arts commission's website: www.oregonartscommission.org.

"The arts enrich life. They are important in their own right," said Oregon State School Board Chair Duncan Wyse. "They are critical for nurturing creativity and achieving a broader set of education goals in core academic areas. "

The Arts Commission encourages Oregonians to mark the role of the arts in their communities and schools during the week of September 12, 2010 and to be active advocates for arts education for all students, even at a time when many school arts programs are being reduced or eliminated.

"The arts create a unique and valuable springboard for transforming the educational environment, both through integration with other core subjects and through the pursuit of discipline-specific studies. As the school year starts, this week offers schools and communities the opportunity to celebrate the role of the arts," said Deb Vaughn, Arts Education Coordinator for the Oregon Arts Commission.

Some activities to mark Arts in Education Week have already been announced:
Oregon Ballet Theatre: "Fall.ART.Live," Director Park, Portland, Sep. 12, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Oregon Symphony: "Symphony Storytime" and instrument petting zoo, Beaverton Public
Library, Sep. 15, 10:30 am -11: 30 am
John G. Shedd Institute: "Welcome Back to [Music] School," Eugene, Sep. 10, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Right Brain Initiative: "Show and Tell" mobile, multimedia exhibit,
Portland Public Schools Blanchard Education Service Center, Sep. 9-10, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Sep. 13, 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Portland Children's Museum, Sep. 14 – Oct. 3, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Tues. – Sun.

More events are listed on the Arts Commission's arts education online forum: www.oregonartscommission.org/oaec/forum.
Americans for the Arts will coordinate activity on a national level and will host an Arts Education blog salon, http://blog.artsusa.org, featuring guest posts by Sarah K. Collins, a University of Oregon graduate student.
Additionally, AFTA encourages citizens to "pledge" to testify before their local school board about the importance of arts education. Anyone can "pledge" at http://artsactionfund.org/page/s/artsedweek10. Twitter users can join the #artsed chat on Twitter every Thursday at 4 pm PT to offer suggestions about promoting local events tied to Arts in Education Week.
More online resources are available:
National Arts Education Partnership http://aep-arts.org/artsineducationweek.html
Arts USA http://artsusa.org/networks/arts_education/001.asp

* * * * * * * * * * *
Sponsored by Congresswoman, Rep. Jackie Speiers (D-California), the resolution states many important advocacy messages that the arts education field has been touting for years including:
"Whereas arts education, comprising a rich array of disciplines including dance, music, theatre, media arts, literature, design, and visual arts, is a core academic subject and an essential element of a complete and balanced education for all students…
Whereas arts education enables students to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills, imagination and creativity, discipline, alternative ways to communicate, and express feelings and ideas, and cross-cultural understanding, which supports academic success across the curriculum as well as personal growth outside the classroom;

Whereas the nonprofit arts sector is an economic engine and plays a significant role in the economic health of communities large and small with direct expenditures of wages and benefits as well as goods and services;
Whereas attracting and retaining the best teachers is vital and can be achieved by ensuring that schools embrace the arts, becoming havens for creativity and innovation…"
The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of Business Oregon (Oregon Business Development Department in 1993, in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission's expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development.

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


Attached Media Files: A student at Parris Middle School in Salem reads his poetry at an Art and Poetry Exhibit. Credit: Frank Miller , A student photographs a mural on NE Alberta Street in Portland. Credit: Sabina Samiee

The Oregon Arts Commission will hold a series of Open Forums to inform the next update of the strategic plan for the arts in Oregon. Oregon artists, arts organization representatives, arts supporters, advocates and elected officials are invited to participate in the discussions with Arts Commissioners and staff.

"The Arts Commission is holding these open arts forums to hear first-hand about the successes achieved by Oregon arts groups, as well as what challenges they're encountering. We are inviting the statewide arts community and residents at large to talk with us about their accomplishments, barriers to success, and other issues they feel need attention. We also want to hear from arts supporters about how the arts add value to their communities," said Christine D'Arcy, Executive Director of the Arts Commission. The forums are intended to solicit ideas from the art and culture community and the general public to help the Commission develop policies that strengthen the arts across Oregon. "As we plan for the future, we are reaching out to Oregon's arts stakeholders for ideas and advice," said D'Arcy.

The forums will be held:
Tuesday, Sept 14, 10 am – noon Hallie Ford Museum of Art, 700 State Street, Salem 97301

Wednesday, Sept 15, 10 am – noon Newport Performing Arts Center, 777 West Olive Street, Newport 97365

Wednesday, Sept 15, 3:30 pm – 5 pm The Hult Center, Studio, 1 Eugene Center, Eugene 97401-2670

Wednesday, Sept 22, noon – 1:30 pm The Art Center, 700 SW Madison Avenue, Corvallis 97333

Sunday, Sept 26, 3:30pm – 5 pm Sisters Art Works, 204 W Adams Street, Sisters 97759

Tuesday, Sept 28, 10 am – noon Pendleton Center for the Arts, 214 North Main Street, Pendleton 97801

Dates and locations for open forums in Portland and Southern Oregon will be announced at a later time.

Selected forums will allow participation by teleconference. For information, contact Kat Bell, kat.bell@state.or.us or (503) 986-0082.

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

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

Oregon Cultural Trust Presents Third Annual
Oregon Days of Culture Friday, October 1 – Friday, October 8, 2010
OregonDaysofCulture.org Invites Cultural Confessions

August 13, 2010 – Salem, ORE. The third annual Oregon Days of Culture takes place Friday, October 1 through Friday, October 8, the 8th anniversary of Oregon's unique and powerful cultural tax credit. Presented by the Oregon Cultural Trust, Oregon Days of Culture celebrates the vibrancy of Oregon heritage, humanities and arts.

The eight-day week showcases everyday culture in every Oregon community. Whether it's taking in a quilt display at the farmer's market, reading the latest bestseller at the library, imagining pioneer life at a historic cemetery or listening to an opera in a bar, the searchable, interactive website – www.oregondaysofculture.org – makes it easy to sample Oregon culture and encourages donations to support it.

The website opens to the public on Tuesday, August 24. That's when people can begin searching for Oregon Days of Culture activities as well as post events to the site. The site will accept event postings through Friday Sepetmber 17. Posted events may be public like author readings, exhibitions, performances and screenings; or private, such as knitting group meetings, cultural confession challenges or fundraising parties. The searchable database includes free and ticketed events, community gatherings and volunteer opportunities. Friday, October 8, 2010 is Oregon's statewide in-service day when many families will be looking for activities for their children. When they search www.oregondaysofculture.org, they'll find plenty of choices anywhere in Oregon.

This year, www.oregondaysofculture.org invites Oregonians to make cultural confessions …to reveal through a blog post what their secret cultural passion might be. This is part of Oregon Days of Culture's intent to reveal the secret cultural currents that inform our lives. A medical researcher, a fisherman, or a small town mayor may also be a tap dancer, a poet or a plein air painter. Who knew? When they make their cultural confessions, we all will. And we'll all share in the unexpected, intriguing, stimulating and delightful nature of cultural expression in Oregon.

October is a time of many celebrations -- National Arts & Humanities Month, National Archives Month, Archaeology Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, and many, many others. It also kicks off the fall fundraising season, not just for the Cultural Trust but for Oregon's 1,300 cultural nonprofits. That's why Oregon Days of Culture invites people to Celebrate!Participate!Give! to Oregon culture.

October 8 is the anniversary of the cultural tax credit and, in 2010, the Cultural Trust's eighth birthday. In 2009, the celebration was expanded from a single day to an eight-day week to be more inclusive and to reflect cultural programming available in Oregon communities.

OregonDaysofCulture.org includes Cultural Trust Facebook and Twitter feeds and allows users to post photos and videos of their cultural confessions. It lists proclamations, speaking engagements, and media coverage; it includes a speakers bureau, sample letters to the editor and a downloadable toolkit for those posting Oregon Days of Culture events. All to make it easy to participate in the celebration and to proclaim support of Oregon culture throughout October 1 through 8.

An innovative public-private fundraising and grantmaking program, the Oregon Cultural Trust relies on donations to create the funds for its annual grant cycle. The Trust recently announced $1.47 million in statewide grants benefiting 57 cultural nonprofits, 40 county and tribal coalitions and five state cultural partners. Those grants are made possible entirely by donors who gave to the Trust and to any number of Oregon's 1,300 cultural nonprofits (searchable at http://tinyurl.com/cv9nqo) to earn Oregon's unique cultural tax credit. The cultural tax credit makes Trust gifts free and gives donors the power to create grants that benefit the cultural nonprofits they already value.

The Cultural Trust invests in community by funding Oregon humanities, arts and heritage. Many cultural nonprofits – libraries, heritage societies, art centers – are the heart of community life and learning. Oregon Days of Culture celebrates the value of Oregon culture and encourages Oregonians to support it by giving. Most event pages at www.oregondaysofculture.org include links to cultural nonprofits' donations pages.

The Trust's cultural confession: more donations = more grants, benefiting arts, humanities and heritage nonprofits in every Oregon county.

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Attached Media Files: High School Student Paris Confesses Culturally That She's a Photographer Photo Julie Keefe

Salem, Oregon – Oregonians who paid money to American Trade Association Inc. (ATA) or several affiliated companies that were selling illegitimate health insurance plans have until August 31 to file any unpaid claims with the Tennessee-based liquidator who is shutting down the operation. The other companies are Smart Data Solutions LLC (SDS) and Serve America Assurance Ltd (SAA). ATA may also go by American Trade Association LLC.

A Proof of Claim form and instructions for what must be submitted with the form can be found here: www.americantradeliquidation.com. No payments will be made on any policy claims until all "Proof of Claim" forms are reviewed and the court approves a plan of distribution. Creditors are owed far more than is available from the assets.

An estimated 400 Oregonians purchased health insurance – or thought they did – through a group of illegitimate companies that marketed themselves through Internet advertising and fax blasts. The Oregon Insurance Division recently filed a cease and desist order to immediately disallow any insurance transactions in this state by ATA, SDS and SAA. You can find the order here: http://insurance.oregon.gov/admin_actions/actions_2010/producer_2010/10-06-005cd.pdf

Tennessee regulators allege that ATA and SDS engaged in the unlicensed, unauthorized sale of nonexistent insurance coverage, taking premium payments from thousands of consumers when there was no licensed insurance company to fund claims. They said that SAA paid a relatively small number of claims, which contributed to the deception.

The incident is a reminder that anyone buying insurance over the phone or Internet or as the result of an unsolicited letter or fax should proceed with caution. To find out if a company or agent is legitimate in Oregon, call the Insurance Division's consumer advocates at 503-947-7984 or toll-free at 1-888-877-4894 or visit insurance.oregon.gov/insurer/insurer.html.


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The Insurance Division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit www.dcbs.oregon.gov. Follow DCBS on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DCBSCory. Receive consumer help and information on insurance, mortgages, investments, workplace safety, and more.

(Salem) – "Speak Up!" from the director's chair and promote young worker safety and health in a 45-second public service announcement. High school students across Oregon are invited to enter the third annual video contest. The top three entries will take home cash prizes ranging from $300 to $500 and will earn a matching amount for their school.

The Oregon Young Employee Safety Coalition (O[yes]), Oregon OSHA, SAIF Corporation, American Society of Safety Engineers, the Center for Research on Occupational and Environmental Toxicology (CROET), and the DHS-Public Health Division are sponsoring the contest.

The contest is designed to increase awareness about safety on the job for young people, with the overall theme of "Save a Friend. Work Safe." Specific video guidelines are outlined in the contest rules. Students are encouraged to use humor, get creative, and use the message "Speak Up!" while emphasizing ways to protect themselves at work. Submissions will be judged on the following:

•A teen worker health and safety message based on the concept of "Speak Up!" as the main focus of the video (See rules for more specific details)
•Creativity and originality
•Overall production value (video and audio quality)
•Youth appeal

The deadline for submissions is Feb. 1, 2011.

Contest winners will be unveiled at a screening event to be announced in the spring, and winning entries will be posted on YouTube. For detailed contest information including contest tips, rules, and entry forms, go to www.orosha.org/psacontest/.

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1073/37606/OyesLogo.jpg

Salem, Oregon – Federal officials today approved Oregon's $1 million grant proposal to bolster the review of health insurance rate requests through more detailed analysis and stronger consumer feedback.

"This grant gives us better tools to address rising health insurance costs and provides more information to consumers," said Cory Streisinger, director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS).

The grant to Oregon is part of a five-year, $250 million national program established in the new federal health reform law to help states start or improve rate reviews. Federal officials set aside $1 million per state for 2010.

The DCBS Insurance Division, which reviews rates for small employer, individual, and portability health plans, will use the funds to:

• Increase the scrutiny of rate filings by looking more closely at how a rate increase affects a range of consumers and auditing the numbers insurance companies submit as questions arise.
• Bolster public input into rate reviews by providing funding to a consumer group to provide in-depth comments on rate requests.
• Develop a process to address large group rates to avoid unreasonable increases. The department does not currently review rates for large employer groups (more than 50 employees).
• Provide consumers better information about what drives health insurance premiums by requiring insurers to provide a detailed breakdown of medical costs (such as hospital care versus prescription drugs versus doctor fees) and posting the information online. Computer system changes will make it easier for consumers to read about rate requests on the division's website, as well as help the division better collect and report data about insurance rates and medical costs to federal officials and consumers.

Oregon already has a strong rate review law, thanks to its own reform efforts. Since April, the division has been able to consider such factors as a company's overall profitability, surplus, and investment earnings when reviewing a rate request. The April reforms also established a 30-day public comment period once a rate request is filed.

The changes are part of a larger effort by Oregon to address the rising cost of health care. Because health care costs drive insurance rates, any effort to increase the affordability of insurance will not succeed until health care costs are brought under control.

For more on the department's grant proposal, go to: http://insurance.oregon.gov/consumer/federal-health-reform/rate-review-grant.html

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The Insurance Division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit www.dcbs.oregon.gov. Follow DCBS on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DCBSCory. Receive consumer help and information on insurance, mortgages, investments, workplace safety, and more.

The Oregon Board of Forestry today recognized Simon Babcock, the forestry instructor at Philomath High School, for excellence in forestry education. During the Board's meeting in Salem, Babcock received the Mary Rellergert Forestry Education Award, which honors individuals and organizations making significant contributions to public education and understanding of forestry in Oregon.

Babcock, now in his seventh year as forestry instructor at Philomath High School (PHS), received the award based upon his enthusiastic and inspirational teaching style, his ability to engage his school and the wider community in creative and fun forestry education projects, and the positive effects his teaching has had on his students. Babcock has also been an active leader in the Associated Oregon Forestry Clubs.

Pete Tuana, recently retired superintendent from Philomath Public Schools, described Babcock as "tireless, bold and creative" in his forestry education work in the school and in the community.

"Simon's unyielding desire to provide positive educational opportunities for all students has promoted the standing of the Forestry program to equal standing with all the typical science courses of Philomath High," Tuana said.

The award honors Oregon Department of Forestry's former Tillamook State Forest Education Coordinator, Mary Rellergert, who passed away in February 2004. Rellergert was a highly regarded forest education leader and founder of the Tillamook State Forest Education Program, which provides high quality forest learning experiences for K-12 students at the Tillamook Forest Center.

The 2010 Mary Rellergert Forestry Education Award winner was selected by a panel of forestry educators from the Oregon Natural Resources Education Program at the Oregon State University College of Forestry, the Oregon Forest Resources Institute, the Oregon Department of Forestry, and past recipients of the award.


NOTE TO EDITORS: Photos of the recipient receiving his award—and of him in action conducting forest education programs—are available. Contact Doug Decker, 503-701-0236, ddecker@odf.state.or.us


Attached Media Files: Philomath High School teacher Simon Babcock received the Mary Rellergert Forestry Education Award on Sept. 8

The Oregon Board of Forestry honored eight Oregonians for their commitment to community tree care today at its business meeting in Salem. The 2010 Urban Forestry awards recognize individuals, groups and businesses that have made outstanding efforts to enhance and maintain healthy community forests.

Winners in the eight award categories include:

Citizen volunteer and civic organization: White Oak Committee
Roberta Schwarz of West Linn was honored for her work with the White Oak Committee that raised more than $1 million to purchase and preserve part of a rare Oregon white oak savanna property.

Development: Pringle Creek Community
The Pringle Creek Community of Salem successfully preserved more than 80 percent of the existing trees on a site it developed into a sustainable community that aims to integrate green building, energy efficiency and respect for the natural environment.

Oregon Tree City of the Year: City of McMinnville
The City of McMinnville was honored for its efforts to encourage residents to plant, protect and maintain trees in the northwestern Oregon community. City government staff worked to assure that this historic town retained its charm and livability by caring for its trees.

Business: Ascending the Giants
Cutting-edge photography and video work promoting the ecological importance of champion trees garnered an Urban Forestry award for the firm, "Ascending the Giants." Arborists Brian French and Will Koomjian are conducting a series of expeditions to climb and measure the largest tree of each species.

President's Award: Ed Jensen, OSU
Ed Jensen, an associate dean at Oregon State University's College of Forestry, was recognized for his long record of accomplishment in forestry education, outreach and advocacy. Jensen co-authored the popular handbook, "Trees to Know in Oregon." He develops, runs and evaluates natural resource education programs at the college.

Professional: Nancy Buley, J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co.
As marketing and communications director for J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co., one of Oregon's premier nurseries, Nancy Buley has been a tireless advocate for trees. Earlier this year she visited all of Oregon's congressional and senate offices in Washington, D.C. to encourage support for tree-planting legislation.

Government: Clean Water Services, Randy Lawrence
Randy Lawrence and Clean Water Services launched the "Tree for All" program in the Tualatin River Watershed. The program is currently ahead of schedule in working toward its goal to plant 2 million trees in the watershed in 20 years.

Professional: Jennifer Wilson and The Wetlands Conservancy
Jennifer Wilson of Tualatin and The Wetlands Conservancy planted more than 15,000 native wetland shrubs and trees in spring 2010. She also excels in teaching children about the natural world.

Oregon Community Trees, a conservation organization that promotes healthy urban and community forests, jointly hosted the presentation of the Urban Forestry awards with the Board of Forestry at the meeting held at Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, 2600 State St., in Salem.

September 8, 2010

The Oregon Board of Forestry today approved the exchange of forestland located in Benton, Lincoln and Polk counties, where similar amounts of state land will be exchanged for private land.

The land exchange involves about 1,904 acres of state-owned land and 2,095 acres of forest owned by Starker Forests Incorporated. The land values, including harvestable timber, are approximately equal, according to an independent appraisal. Third-party assessments also were conducted for sensitive plant, fish and wildlife habitat on affected forest lands. ODF completed an assessment of recreational values.

The forestland acreage in the land exchange approved Wednesday includes:

Lincoln County: 1,024 acres of state land and 1,070 acres of Starker land.
Benton County: 484 acres of state land and 696 acres of Starker land.
Polk County: 396 acres of state land (includes 40 acres of Common School Fund land) and 329 acres of Starker land.

The land exchange yields a net increase of 191 additional acres in state ownership of forestland, producing additional economic, environmental and social benefits to Oregon and local county services.

ODF began negotiations with Starker Forests in 2008 regarding a potential exchange of lands for the purpose of consolidating respective ownerships and to increase management efficiency and effectiveness in forest management by both parties.

Public hearings on the proposed land transfer occurred in April 2010 in Newport, Corvallis and Dallas. Additional public comment on the proposal was accepted during May 2010 and the proposed land exchange was approved by the Board of Commissioners in Benton, Lincoln and Polk Counties during June 2010.

The 40-acre parcel of forest in Polk County under Common School Fund ownership proposed for transfer from the Department of State Lands to Starker will be reviewed by the State Land Board this fall.

The Board of Forestry voted 5-0 to approve the land exchange, with board member Gary Springer abstaining due to his employment with Starker Forests.

ODF manages 848,000 acres of state forestland to provide social, economic, and environmental benefits to local communities throughout Oregon. Additional information, including maps of the land exchange areas, is available on the Oregon Department of Forestry website, www.oregon.gov/ODF

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Direct web link to parcel maps --http://egov.oregon.gov/ODF/STATE_FORESTS/docs/StarkerExchange_ParcelMaps.pdf

This is the Oregon Department of Forestry Daily Fire Update for Friday, September 3, 2010.

FIRES ON ODF-PROTECTED LANDS
No new fires 10 acres or larger were reported during the past 24 hours on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry.

FIRES ON OTHER LANDS IN OREGON
The View Lake Fire, burning on the Mt. Hood National Forest, is 4,523 acres and 35 percent contained. More information on this fire is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2088/ .

The Oak Flat Fire, burning 10 miles northwest of Selma on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, is 6,850 acres and 73 percent contained. More information on this fire is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2066/ .

OTHER FIRE INFORMATION:
For information on other ongoing wildfires in other jurisdictions within Oregon, go to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center website, http://www.nwccweb.us/ and to the national Incident Information System website at http://www.inciweb.org/state/38

ABOUT THIS UPDATE:
The Oregon Department of Forestry is responsible for fire protection on private and state-owned forestland, and on a limited amount of other forestlands, including those owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in western Oregon. However, because fires starting on one land ownership type may spread to others, and because of the need to share firefighting resources, agencies commonly work together closely.

This update focuses primarily on firefighting activity on Oregon Department of Forestry-protected lands, and on the department's role as a partner in fighting major fires that start on land protected by other agencies.

FIRE STATISTICS:
Fire statistics for the current year and the average over the past 10 years for the forestland protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry:

January 1, 2010 through September 3, 2010
Lightning-caused fires: 178 fires burned approximately 753 acres
Human-caused fires: 362 fires burned approximately 5,154 acres
Total: 540 fires have burned approximately 5,907 acres

10-year average (January 1 through the present date in the year)
Lightning-caused fires: 282 fires burned approximately 20,741 acres
Human-caused fires: 573 fires burned approximately 4,572 acres
Total: 854 fires burned approximately 25,313 acres

September 3, 2010

A joint announcement of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Oregon Department of Forestry.

Safe Harbor Agreement Advances Northern Spotted Owl Conservation, Offers Regulatory Assurances and Financial Incentives to Private Forest Landowners


Federal and state agencies have reached a landmark agreement that assures private forest landowners can continue to manage for long-term, sustainable timber harvests while also enhancing northern spotted owl habitat.

The entirely voluntary statewide Safe Harbor Agreement features conservation efforts coupled with federal financial incentives and technical assistance to landowners. This is the broadest effort in Oregon to enhance the contribution of non-federal lands to spotted owl recovery since the Pacific Northwest forest raptor was listed as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act in 1990. The agreement is a coordinated effort among the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), and USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

Landowners who enter into the Safe Harbor Agreement will be able to develop or conserve spotted owl habitat, with the assurance that if the property eventually attracts owls, timber harvest or other activities could continue, as long as the land is managed to provide a net conservation benefit to the species. The agreement is intended to encourage landowners to pursue conservation values while also deriving the economic return they need to continue to manage their land for a range of benefits.

"This Safe Harbor has the potential to be a pivot point in the northern spotted owl's recovery in the State of Oregon," said Paul Henson, State Supervisor of the Fish and Wildlife Service's Oregon Fish and Wildlife Office. "Inviting more involvement from citizens and non-federal partners is just one way we're addressing one of the Northwest's biggest conservation challenges with pragmatic approaches to endangered species recovery."

"This agreement gives much greater assurance to forestland owners and managers in Oregon's spotted owl territory and will serve to increase participation, enhance protection, and stimulate productivity on these landscapes," said Johnny Sundstrom, forest landowner and past President of the Oregon Association of Conservation Districts. "Surely this is a win-win for all of us who care about these private, working-land forests and their crucial importance to our state."

The three agencies will provide technical assistance to private forest landowners as they establish a balance between timber harvest to support local communities and the unique requirements of sustainable spotted owl habitats in the Northwest.

Working with local staff, landowners also have the opportunity to apply for financial incentives to support selected forest practices. Participation in Safe Harbor on Oregon forestlands is accomplished through development of a stewardship agreement between the landowner and ODF. A stewardship agreement is a voluntary written plan where a landowner agrees to meet the natural resource protection standards of the Oregon Forest Practices Act through alternate practices.

"Oregon's policy is to promote a balance of environmental, economic, and social benefits from our forests," said Marvin Brown, Oregon State Forester. "Safe Harbor supports that balance. It allows landowners to protect owl habitat, with the assurance that they can also continue to manage their land for other benefits."

NRCS' Healthy Forest Reserve Program is a voluntary conservation program under the 2008 Farm Bill established for the purpose of restoring and enhancing forest ecosystems. In Oregon, the focus of this program is to support private forest landowners to manage their land for sustainable, profitable timber harvests while promoting habitat for the threatened northern spotted owl. Participating landowners will receive assurances under the Safe Harbor Agreement and are compensated for enrolling forests in permanent easements and agreeing to manage those lands using sustainable forest practices. The program has been implemented in only eight states across the nation, with Oregon added in 2009.

"Private landowners and the lands they manage are critical for the recovery of the northern spotted owl," said Ron Alvarado, State Conservationist with USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service. "In order to involve landowners, they must be able to effectively make a living on those lands. This agreement allows landowners to manage their lands sustainably while also protecting an iconic western species, resulting in a positive outcome for Oregonians."

Covering the range of the spotted owl throughout the state, the Safe Harbor Agreement is focused on forest landowners with 5,000 acres or less and has a 50-year duration. In addition to special incentives provided under ODF and NRCS land stewardship programs, those who participate gain formal assurance from the Fish and Wildlife Service that they will not face future regulatory restrictions on the use of the land enrolled if they agree to improve its habitat value for spotted owls.

Here's how it works: the voluntary agreements would encourage long-term conservation benefits such as extended timber harvest rotations, forest management strategies that develop spotted owl habitat characteristics, and maintenance of owl habitat conditions for the duration of the agreement and possibly beyond. The agreement helps implement several recovery actions identified in the 2008 Northern Spotted Owl Recovery Plan related to encouraging habitat conservation on non-federal lands to benefit the owl.

Toward the end of the agreement period in 2060, participating landowners have the option of continuing their conservation measures on the enrolled land, returning it to baseline conditions that existed at the beginning of the agreement, for example, by increasing commercial logging activities, or anything in between.

The main threats to the spotted owl are habitat loss and competition from barred owls, which are native to eastern North America but moved into the range of the spotted owl over the last century. The most recent analysis of data on spotted owl demographics such as occupancy, survival, reproduction, and movement indicates that the owl continues to decline in seven of 11 study areas in Washington, Oregon, and California (populations are stationary in the other four). The overall rangewide spotted owl population is declining at an average rate of nearly 3 percent per year.

There are currently three other Safe Harbor agreements for the spotted owl: one signed in 2002 with Forster-Gill, Inc. covering 236 acres near the town of Blue Lake in northern California; a second signed in 2009 with the non-profit Pacific Forest Trust, a land conservation group that manages the 2,200-acre Van Eck Forest in Humboldt, Calif.; and a third, for the owl and the threatened marbled murrelet, signed in 2009 with Port Blakely Tree Farms covering 45,000 acres in Lewis and Skamania Counties in southwestern Washington.

Further information about the program is available from ODF at www.oregon.gov/odf. For additional information regarding assistance from the NRCS contact your local USDA Service Center or visit www.or.nrcs.usda.gov.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov and in Oregon, http://www.fws.gov/oregonfwo/

NRCS—Helping people help the land.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service provides leadership in a partnership effort to help people
conserve, maintain, and improve our natural resources and environment. For additional information, please visit the Oregon NRCS website at: www.or.nrcs.usda.gov

The Oregon Department of Forestry serves the people of Oregon by protecting, managing, and promoting stewardship of Oregon's forests to enhance environmental, economic, and community sustainability. For additional information, please visit http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/

*** Frequently Asked Questions / Safe Harbor Agreements ***

What is a Safe Harbor agreement?

A Safe Harbor agreement is a voluntary conservation tool for private landowners who wish to support recovery of plants and animals listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. Safe Harbors are area- and species-specific agreements, though they are sometimes developed for more than one species with similar habitat needs. They also can be specific to a single property owner or multiple landowners in a certain region. For the latter, they are usually called programmatic Safe Harbor agreements.

What is the purpose of a Safe Harbor agreement?

Safe Harbor agreements are just one tool for enhancing endangered species conservation on private lands (other common tools advanced by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are Habitat Conservation Plans and Partners for Fish and Wildlife projects). Safe Harbor agreements can contribute significantly to the recovery of Endangered Species Act-listed species. The most common threat to listed species is habitat loss and degradation. More than two-thirds of all listed species in the country spend all or part of their lives on privately owned land.

How do Safe Harbor agreements work?

Under the program, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works with a landowner (along with other partners to the Safe Harbor agreement) to identify "baseline habitat conditions" for the property he or she wishes to enroll. The Fish and Wildlife Service and landowner develop a management plan for the enrolled property, allowing for mutually agreed-upon uses that ultimately provide a "net conservation benefit" to the listed species.
In exchange for the landowner's commitment to those conservation measures, the Fish and Wildlife Service provides formal assurance that the landowner will not be restricted from the uses identified in the management plan if the listed species is attracted to the enrolled property as a result of improved habitat conditions (though the landowner must maintain at least the baseline habitat conditions). This means that some incidental take of individual listed species may potentially occur in return for the long term conservation benefit to the species overall. The Fish and Wildlife Service carefully considers the potential level of incidental take when making the "net conservation benefit" determination at the onset of the agreement.
Toward the end of the agreement term, the landowner has the option of continuing their conservation measures on the enrolled land, returning it to baseline conditions that existed at the beginning of the agreement, or anything in between.

Who is eligible to enroll in a Safe Harbor agreement?

Any non-federal landowner can be a party to a Safe Harbor agreement. Existing agreements involve individual families, states, state agencies, tribes, county agencies, conservation organizations, businesses, and universities. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service often implements a Safe Harbor agreement in partnership with another government agency or organization that works directly with landowners on a local basis.

How long do Safe Harbor agreements last?

Safe Harbor agreements have different durations, such as 10, 25, 50, or even 100 years, depending on the amount of time required to achieve conservation benefits for the particular species and habitat covered. A Safe Harbor agreement also can be renewed for as long as the landowner and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service mutually agree.

What happens if land enrolled in a Safe Harbor agreement is sold or ownership is transferred? Does the agreement go with the sale or transfer?

If a landowner proposes to sell or give away lands enrolled in a Safe Harbor agreement, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service can allow the agreement and associated permit to continue to be in effect, providing the new owner agrees to become a party to the original agreement.

How many Safe Harbor agreements are there?

Since the first Safe Harbor agreement was signed in 1995, more than 400 landowners in 23 states and one U.S. territory have enrolled more than 4.3 million acres in 80 Safe Harbor agreements, benefitting 75 species listed under the Endangered Species Act.

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September 2, 2010

As the last holiday weekend of the summer is here and outdoor adventurers are preparing for fall hunting seasons, don't let the cooler weather fool you! Recent rains and cooler temperatures have not eliminated the risk of wildfire throughout Oregon, especially in the southern Cascade Range.

"September is typically when we get east winds blowing very dry air over the Cascades into the western side of the state," said Lena Tucker, District Forester for the Oregon Department of Forestry's South Cascade District in Springfield. "These dry winds are notorious for bringing abandoned campfires back to life."

Local Oregon Department of Forestry fire managers are asking fall campers and hunters to do their part to make their outings enjoyable and fire-safe.

Campfires - Unattended campfires that spread to adjacent vegetation account for many of the human-caused wildfires each year. A campfire should be kept small and the surrounding area cleared of vegetation. Don't build a campfire where overhanging tree limbs could catch fire. And while it may seem obvious, never build a fire atop exposed or shallow tree roots. The heat can ignite the roots and start a "sleeper fire." This smoldering, smokeless blaze may go unnoticed, and then flare up days later. Never leave a campfire unattended and completely drown the fire before leaving. Most landowners prohibit campfires on their property, so be sure and seek their permission ahead of time.

Off-road riding - Driving or riding motorized vehicles off of improved roads can also cause fire in the forest. Four-wheel-drives, motorcycles and quads pose a common risk from the heat and sparks they can generate. Oregon law requires a muffler, and on cycles and ATVs, a spark arrester is recommended. On full-size vehicles, be sure the exhaust pipe, catalytic converter and muffler are free of grass and twigs that could ignite.

Smoking - Discarded cigarettes rank high among the causes of wildfire year after year. Smoke only in open areas free of tall grass and vegetation, and make sure cigarettes and matches are completely extinguished before discarding.

Fire prevention restrictions are subject to change on short notice during the transition into fall weather, so it's a good idea to call your local Oregon Department of Forestry office or visit the ODF web site at -- http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/FIRE/precautionlevel.shtml -- for current restrictions before heading out into the great outdoors!

You can follow wildfire activity across Oregon this summer on the Wildfire Blog for the Oregon Department of Forestry – check out the Blog at http://wildfireoregondeptofforestry.blogspot.com/

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Audio files are by Kevin Weeks, public information officer for ODF


Attached Media Files: Kevin Weeks ODF3 , Kevin Weeks ODF2 , Kevin Weeks ODF1

This is the Oregon Department of Forestry Daily Fire Update for Thursday, September 2, 2010.

FIRES ON ODF-PROTECTED LANDS
No new fires 10 acres or larger were reported during the past 24 hours on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry.

FIRES ON OTHER LANDS IN OREGON
The View Lake Fire, burning on the Mt. Hood National Forest, is 4,478 acres and 35 percent contained. More information on this fire is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2088/ .

The Scott Mountain Fire is burning 15 miles west of Sisters in the Mt. Washington Wilderness Area on the Willamette National Forest. The fire is 3,454 acres and 30 percent contained. Responsibility for this fire has transitioned from the Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 3 to a local interagency incident management team as of September 1. More information on this fire is available on Inciweb at:
http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2082/ .

The Oak Flat Fire, burning 10 miles northwest of Selma on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, is 6,515 acres and 70 percent contained. More information on this fire is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2066/ .

OTHER FIRE INFORMATION:
For information on other ongoing wildfires in other jurisdictions within Oregon, go to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center website, http://www.nwccweb.us/ and to the national Incident Information System website at http://www.inciweb.org/state/38

ABOUT THIS UPDATE:
The Oregon Department of Forestry is responsible for fire protection on private and state-owned forestland, and on a limited amount of other forestlands, including those owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in western Oregon. However, because fires starting on one land ownership type may spread to others, and because of the need to share firefighting resources, agencies commonly work together closely.

This update focuses primarily on firefighting activity on Oregon Department of Forestry-protected lands, and on the department's role as a partner in fighting major fires that start on land protected by other agencies.

FIRE STATISTICS:
Fire statistics for the current year and the average over the past 10 years for the forestland protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry:

January 1, 2010 through September 2, 2010
Lightning-caused fires: 176 fires burned approximately 753 acres
Human-caused fires: 361 fires burned approximately 5,155 acres
Total: 537 fires have burned approximately 5,908 acres

10-year average (January 1 through the present date in the year)
Lightning-caused fires: 281 fires burned approximately 20,741 acres
Human-caused fires: 569 fires burned approximately 4,565 acres
Total: 850 fires burned approximately 25,306 acres

This is the Oregon Department of Forestry Daily Fire Update for Friday, August 30, 2010.

FIRES ON ODF-PROTECTED LANDS:
No new fires 10 acres or larger were reported during the past 72 hours on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry.

FIRES ON OTHER LANDS IN OREGON:

The View Lake Fire, burning on the Mt. Hood National Forest, is approximately 5,876 acres and 30 percent contained. An accurate containment estimate is in the process of being determined. At 6 a.m. on Thursday, August 26, the interagency Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 2 assumed command of this fire. More information is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2088/.

The Scott Mountain Fire is burning approximately two miles northeast of Scott Mountain, 15 miles west of Sisters, and 14 miles northeast of McKenzie Bridge in the Mt. Washington Wilderness Area on the Willamette National Forest. The fire is approximately 3,454 acres and 30 percent contained. The interagency Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 3is managing this fire and more information on is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2082/ .

The Oak Flat Fire, burning on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest in Josephine County two miles northeast of the junction of the Illinois River and Briggs Creek, about 20 miles southwest of Grants Pass, is currently estimated at 6,350 acres and is 70 percent contained. The interagency Oregon-California (ORCA) Incident Management Team is assigned to this fire and more information is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2066/.

The White Lightning Fire, burning on Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs lands 15 miles north of the city of Warm Springs, is currently estimated at approximately 33,732 acres and 90 percent contained. The interagency Northwest Oregon Incident Management Team was released from this fire on August 28, and the fire was turned back over to the Warm Springs Fire Management fire team. More information is available on InciWeb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2075/ .

OTHER FIRE INFORMATION:
For information on other ongoing wildfires in other jurisdictions within Oregon, go to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center website, http://www.nwccweb.us/ and to the national Incident Information System website at http://www.inciweb.org/state/38

ABOUT THIS UPDATE:
The Oregon Department of Forestry is responsible for fire protection on private and state-owned forestland, and on a limited amount of other forestlands, including those owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in western Oregon. However, because fires starting on one land ownership type may spread to others, and because of the need to share firefighting resources, agencies commonly work together closely.

This update focuses primarily on firefighting activity on Oregon Department of Forestry-protected lands, and on the department's role as a partner in fighting major fires that start on land protected by other agencies.

FIRE STATISTICS:
Fire statistics for the current year and the average over the past 10 years for the forestland protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry:

Effective August 30, 2010:

January 1, 2010 through today:

Lightning-caused fires: 175 fires burned approximately 726 acres
Human-caused fires: 353 fires burned approximately 5,226 acres
Total: 528 fires have burned approximately 5,953 acres

10-year average (January 1 through the present date in the year):

Lightning-caused fires: 276 fires burned approximately 20,478 acres
Human-caused fires: 552 fires burned approximately 4,521 acres
Total: 828 fires burned approximately 24,999 acres

The Oregon Board of Forestry and Oregon Community Trees, a conservation organization, will present the annual State Urban Forestry Awards at the board's next regular meeting on Sept. 8 in Salem. Eight recipients will be recognized for their work to promote urban forests.

Other items on the board's agenda include:
* Stream monitoring update – The Riparian Function and Stream Temperature (RipStream) monitoring project is designed to measure the effectiveness of stream protection rules as prescribed for state-owned forests and private forestlands. Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and Oregon State University College of Forestry staff will provide a progress report.
* Oregonians' values and beliefs about forestry and forest issues – Results of surveys and focus groups conducted in spring 2010 will be presented.
* Oregon indicators of sustainable forest management – Board members will receive an update on the 19 indicators, including a first report on the indicator, "Compliance with forestry regulations."
* 2011 Forestry Program for Oregon –ODF staff will seek board approval to initiate a 90-day public comment period on the draft update of the board's strategic planning document.
* Mary Rellergert Forestry Education award – The board will honor individuals who have made significant contributions to public education and understanding of forestry in Oregon with the Mary Rellergert Forestry Education award. The award is given annually in honor of former Tillamook State Forest Education Coordinator Mary Rellergert, who died in February 2004.
* State Forests planning – ODF staff will present a background paper describing how other Oregon state government natural resource agencies adopt management plans and measure their performance.

The meeting will begin at 8 a.m. at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters office, in the Tillamook Room, Building C, 2600 State St., in Salem.

The meeting is open to the public, and comments will be received on forestry-related items not included in the agenda during a general comment period shortly after 8 a.m. Members of the public wishing to comment on specific agenda items will have an opportunity to address the board during the time each item is scheduled.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services or assistance can be arranged by calling the department's Agency Affairs Office at least 48 hours before the meeting, 503-945-7200, text telephone 503-945-7213.

More information on the Board of Forestry can be found at: www.oregon.gov/ODF/BOARD/. Background information on the Sept. 8 meeting agenda items is available through the "2010 Meeting Schedule" link on the website.

This is the Oregon Department of Forestry Daily Fire Update for Friday, August 27, 2010.

FIRES ON ODF-PROTECTED LANDS:
No new fires 10 acres or larger were reported during the past 24 hours on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry.

FIRES ON OTHER LANDS IN OREGON:
Picnic Creek Fire: The John Day Unit, Central Oregon District, of the Oregon Department of Forestry provided mutual aid on the Picnic Creek Fire, 8 miles west of Mt. Vernon (south of Highway 26). The fire, at approximately 20-30 acres on the jurisdiction of the Mt. Vernon Rural Protection District, started Thursday night, August 26, at approximately 5:21 PDT. High winds pushed the fire near the vicinity of 20 structures; one confirmed outbuilding, possibly two outbuildings, were destroyed. Resources on the fire Thursday night included five engines, one tender, two dozers, and one helicopter from the Oregon Department of Forestry, one engine from the U.S. Forest Service, and all of Mt. Vernon Rural Protection District resources. The Grant County Sheriff's Office, Oregon State Police, State Fire Marshall's Office, and Oregon Department of Transportation also contributed to the effort. The fire spread has been stopped this morning and the fire is fully lined. The cause is under investigation by the Oregon State Fire Marshal's office.

Phoenix Wildland Fire, Crater Lake: Interagency fire crews and engines are continuing to manage this Phoenix Wildland Fire burning in timber and timber litter seven miles southeast of Diamond Lake, Oregon inside the Crater Lake National Park boundary on the east flank of Timber Crater. The fire, currently estimated at 200 acres, was ignited by lightning on the afternoon of August 17. No structures are currently threatened and no evacuations have been reported at this time. The Phoenix Wildland Fire is being managed to allow fire to serve its natural role in the ecosystem and reduce hazardous fuel accumulation. It is burning on land immediately adjacent to the Fremont-Winema National Forests. Fire crews are building a control line to prevent the fire from spreading onto National Forest land. Any ignitions that occur outside of the Crater Lake National Park boundary will be immediately suppressed. For more information, please contact the National Park Service at (541) 594-3062.

NOTE: Many of the following fires have significant active closure notices for roads, scenic areas, trails, and campgrounds in place that have been recently updated, added, or revised. For the most current information, visit the fires' Inciweb sites where the most recent notices and maps of closure areas are posted.

The View Lake Fire, burning on the Mt. Hood National Forest, is approximately 3,037 acres. An accurate containment estimate is in the process of being determined. At 6 a.m. on Thursday, August 26, the interagency Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 2 assumed command of this fire. More information is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2088/.

The Scott Mountain Fire is burning approximately two miles northeast of Scott Mountain, 15 miles west of Sisters, and 14 miles northeast of McKenzie Bridge in the Mt. Washington Wilderness Area on the Willamette National Forest. The fire is approximately 2,559 acres and five percent contained. The interagency Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 3is managing this fire and more information on is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2082/ .

The White Lightning Fire, burning on Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs lands 15 miles north of the city of Warm Springs, is currently estimated at approximately 33,016 acres and 40 percent contained. Effective at 6 a.m. on Friday, August 27, the Deschutes River was re-opened to recreationists. The interagency Northwest Oregon Incident Management Team is assigned to this fire and more information is available on InciWeb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2075/ .

The Oak Flat Fire, burning on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest in Josephine County two miles northeast of the junction of the Illinois River and Briggs Creek, about 20 miles southwest of Grants Pass, is currently estimated at 5,708 acres and is 60 percent contained. The interagency Oregon-California (ORCA) Incident Management Team is assigned to this fire and more information is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2066/.

OTHER FIRE INFORMATION:
For information on other ongoing wildfires in other jurisdictions within Oregon, go to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center website, http://www.nwccweb.us/ and to the national Incident Information System website at http://www.inciweb.org/state/38

ABOUT THIS UPDATE:
The Oregon Department of Forestry is responsible for fire protection on private and state-owned forestland, and on a limited amount of other forestlands, including those owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in western Oregon. However, because fires starting on one land ownership type may spread to others, and because of the need to share firefighting resources, agencies commonly work together closely.

This update focuses primarily on firefighting activity on Oregon Department of Forestry-protected lands, and on the department's role as a partner in fighting major fires that start on land protected by other agencies.

FIRE STATISTICS:
Fire statistics for the current year and the average over the past 10 years for the forestland protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry:

Effective August 27, 2010:

January 1, 2010 through today:

Lightning-caused fires: 176 fires burned approximately 726 acres
Human-caused fires: 333 fires burned approximately 4,936 acres
Total: 509 fires have burned approximately 5,662 acres

10-year average (January 1 through the present date in the year):

Lightning-caused fires: 269 fires burned approximately 20,456 acres
Human-caused fires: 531 fires burned approximately 4,448 acres
Total: 806 fires burned approximately 24,904 acres

SAFETY TIPS
For firefighter safety tips, go to
http://www.nifc.gov/sixminutes/dsp_sixminutes.php

FIRE WEATHER
For current fire weather information, go to
http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/FIRE/fire.shtml

WILDFIRE SMOKE FORECASTS
For current smoke information:
www.odf.state.or.us/DIVISIONS/protection/fire_protection/Daily/wfsmoke.htm

FIRE INFORMATION
News media may contact the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters office for fire information, (503) 945-7200, weekdays during business hours. After business hours and on weekends, media may obtain fire info by calling the duty officer pager (503) 370-0403. The duty officer will return media pages promptly.

WILDFIRE PREVENTION
Carelessness can destroy Oregon's beauty. Learn what you can do to prevent wildfires. Visit the Keep Oregon Green Association on the web at http://www.keeporegongreen.org/


Jeri Chase, Agency Web Coordinator/
Public Affairs Representative
Oregon Department of Forestry
2600 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
PH: 503-945-7201
FAX: 503-945-7212
e-mail: jchase@odf.state.or.us

This is the Oregon Department of Forestry Daily Fire Update for Thursday, August 26, 2010.

FIRES ON ODF-PROTECTED LANDS:
Western Lane District, ODF: The Whittaker Creek Fire, was reported at 3:30 a.m. Wednesday, August 25, burning in steep terrain on ODF-protected lands near Whittaker Creek in Lane County. Currently estimated at 15 acres, the fire has been 100 percent lined, is contained and firefighters are continuing with mop-up. The cause of this fire remains under investigation.

SPECIAL NOTICE:
OHV trails in the Tillamook State Forest RE-OPEN. Effective Thursday, August 26, 2010, the off-highway vehicle trails in the Tillamook State Forest are RE-OPEN. This includes off-highway vehicle trails in the Browns Camp, Jordan Creek, Diamond Mill, and Trask off-highway vehicle areas, and the BLM Upper Nestucca Riding Area. Fire Season Regulated Use Precautions are still in effect.

FIRES ON OTHER LANDS IN OREGON:
There are a number of fires burning in the Cascades and several smoke columns have become and will continue to be visible.

The 950-acre Scott Mountain Fire is burning approximately two miles northeast of Scott Mountain, 15 miles west of Sisters, and 14 miles northeast of McKenzie Bridge in the Mt. Washington Wilderness Area. The interagency Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 3 has assumed command of this fire. Smoke from the Scott Mountain Fire has impacted and will continue to impact central Oregon and was being reported yesterday as far away as the lower Santiam Canyon area just east of Salem. More information on closures and fire status is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2082/ .

The White Lightning Fire, burning on Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs lands 15 miles north of the city of Warm Springs, is currently estimated at 29,073 acres and 30 percent contained. Portions of the Deschutes River have been re-opened to recreationists – stretches of the river from Warm Springs Boat Launch to Trout Creek Campground (River Mile 88) and downstream from Harphan Flat (River Mile 56) are now open. The remaining 32-mile closure remains in effect. The interagency Northwest Oregon Incident Management Team is assigned to this fire and more information, including Deschutes River closures, is available on InciWeb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2075/ .

The Oak Flat Fire, burning on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest in Josephine County two miles northeast of the junction of the Illinois River and Briggs Creek, about 20 miles southwest of Grants Pass, is currently estimated at 4,760 acres and is 75 percent contained. The interagency Oregon-California (ORCA) Incident Management Team assigned to this fire was planning to turn it back over to the forest on Saturday morning, although per a special update issued at 7 p.m. last night (August 25), high temperatures and low humidity created conditions for extreme fire behavior Wednesday afternoon, and the fire crossed over the containment line on the north side and was being wind-driven to the north. The estimated containment date has now been pushed back two more days to August 30, and additional resources (crews and helicopters) were ordered. The weather is forecast to cool some beginning today, which should moderate fire behavior, allowing firefighters to re-establish control lines. More information on closures and fire status, is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2066/.

Mt. Hood National Forest. Due to fire activity from the View Lake Fire, currently estimated at approximately 776 acres, the Olallie Lake Scenic Area, access to Breitenbush Lake, and portions of the Bull of the Woods Wilderness Area are closed. More information is available at http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mthood/.

OTHER FIRE INFORMATION:
For information on other ongoing wildfires in other jurisdictions within Oregon, go to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center website, http://www.nwccweb.us/ and to the national Incident Information System website at http://www.inciweb.org/state/38

ABOUT THIS UPDATE:
The Oregon Department of Forestry is responsible for fire protection on private and state-owned forestland, and on a limited amount of other forestlands, including those owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in western Oregon. However, because fires starting on one land ownership type may spread to others, and because of the need to share firefighting resources, agencies commonly work together closely.
This update focuses primarily on firefighting activity on Oregon Department of Forestry-protected lands, and on the department's role as a partner in fighting major fires that start on land protected by other agencies.

FIRE STATISTICS:
Fire statistics for the current year and the average over the past 10 years for the forestland protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry:

Effective August 26, 2010:

January 1, 2010 through today:

Lightning-caused fires: 176 fires burned approximately 753 acres
Human-caused fires: 330 fires burned approximately 4,952 acres
Total: 506 fires have burned approximately 5,677 acres

10-year average (January 1 through the present date in the year):

Lightning-caused fires: 269 fires burned approximately 20,456 acres
Human-caused fires: 531 fires burned approximately 4,319 acres
Total: 800 fires burned approximately 24,775 acres

This is the Oregon Department of Forestry Daily Fire Update for Wednesday, August 25, 2010.

FIRES ON ODF-PROTECTED LANDS:
Western Lane District, ODF: The Whittaker Creek Fire was reported at 3:30 a.m. today, Wednesday, August 25, burning in steep terrain on ODF-protected lands near Whittaker Creek in Lane County. Currently estimated at 18-20 acres, there are 10 engines, 3 crews, 2 tenders, and 2 dozers assigned to the fire which is under investigation.

Forest Grove District, ODF: The Masonville Fire, burning in a straw field at Masonville Road and Highway 18 in Yamhiill County, was reported on ODF-protected lands on Tuesday afternoon, August 24. ODF resources, including four engines, responded, containing the fire by mid-afternoon at approximately 11 acres, and it was turned back over to the landowner for further fire watch.

OHV trails in the Tillamook State Forest are CLOSED. Due to increased fire danger, effective at 12:01 a.m., Tuesday, August 24, 2010, the off-highway vehicle trails in the Tillamook State Forest are CLOSED. Off-highway vehicle activity in the Browns Camp, Jordan Creek, Diamond Mill, and Trask off-highway vehicle areas will be limited to operation on maintained forest roads only.

FIRES ON OTHER LANDS IN OREGON:
Southwest Oregon District, ODF, Mutual Aid: The Oregon Department of Forestry assisted Ashland Fire and Rescue late yesterday afternoon and into the evening (August 24) on a fire that burned on City of Ashland jurisdiction that ultimately destroyed 11 homes and damaged 2 others. There have been no reports so far of any injuries. ODF resources on the fire included two helicopters from the Medford Tanker Base, numerous engines, and a dozer. The Rogue Valley Structural Fire Department also assisted on the fire.

The fire started at approximately 4:45 p.m. in a grassy field on the west side of I-5 near a freeway interchange for South Ashland. Winds at that time were gusty and the fire jumped the freeway, crossing over to the east side, where it then burned in scrub and oak up a hill, and into the residential area. As of about 8:30 p.m. last night, ODF resources were released and the fire remains in the primary jurisdiction of Ashland Fire and Rescue. More information on this fire is available on the City of Ashland's website at http://www.ashland.or.us/index.asp .

Tillamook District, ODF, Mutual Aid: The Cabin Fire, burning on U.S. Forest Service lands near Cape Kiwanda and Sand Lake, was reported at approximately 2 p.m. on Tuesday, August 24. The fire burned 2.1 acres, and originally possibly threatened the near-by Thousand Trails Campground and some structures in the area. ODF resources, including a helicopter, engines, and crews, responded, as well as U.S. Forest Service resources and local Rural Fire Districts. The fire is 100 percent lined and in mop-up. All ODF resources have been released and the fire has been completely turned over to the U.S. Forest Service.
The 600-acre Scott Mountain Fire is burning approximately two miles northeast of Scott Mountain, 15 miles west of Sisters, and 14 miles northeast of McKenzie Bridge. The fire was ignited by lightning during last week's storm, but did not become active until warm winds influenced it on Monday, August 23, when it started running, spotting, crowning, and torching, growing from approximately five to 200 acres in three hours. A closure area is in effect that includes Forest Service roads east of Highway 126, many of which access trailheads into the Mt. Washington wilderness. Additionally, Scott Lake and Alder Springs campgrounds are closed and visitors have been required to leave, and several trails in the area have also been closed. The interagency Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 3 has assumed command of this fire this morning. More information on t his fire is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2082/ .

The White Lightning Fire, burning on Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs lands, is currently estimated at 29,073 acres and 30 percent contained Monday. The Deschutes River is closed to rafting from Warm Springs to Maupin. The Northwest Oregon Interagency Incident Management Team is assigned to this fire and updates are available through InciWeb: http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2075/ .
The Oak Flat Fire, burning on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest in Josephine County two miles northeast of the junction of the Illinois River and Briggs Creek, about 20 miles southwest of Grants Pass, is currently estimated at 4,760 acres and is 75 percent contained. The interagency Oregon-California (ORCA) incident management team assigned to this fire is planning to turn it back over to the forest on Saturday morning. A road, trail, and campground closure is still in effect. Updates on the fire are available through InciWeb: http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2066/
Mt. Hood National Forest: Due to fire activity, the Olallie Lake Scenic Area, access to Breitenbush Lake, and portions of the Bull of the Woods Wilderness Area are closed. More information is available at http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mthood/.

OTHER FIRE INFORMATION:
For information on other ongoing wildfires in other jurisdictions within Oregon, go to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center website, http://www.nwccweb.us/ and to the national Incident Information System website at http://www.inciweb.org/state/38

ABOUT THIS UPDATE:
The Oregon Department of Forestry is responsible for fire protection on private and state-owned forestland, and on a limited amount of other forestlands, including those owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in western Oregon. However, because fires starting on one land ownership type may spread to others, and because of the need to share firefighting resources, agencies commonly work together closely.
This update focuses primarily on firefighting activity on Oregon Department of Forestry-protected land, and on the department's role as a partner in fighting major fires that start on land protected by other agencies.

FIRE STATISTICS:
Fire statistics for the current year and the average over the past 10 years for the forestland protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry:

Effective August 25, 2010:

January 1, 2010 through today:

Lightning-caused fires: 178 fires burned approximately 727 acres
Human-caused fires: 324 fires burned approximately 4,935 acres
Total: 502 fires have burned approximately 5,662 acres

10-year average (January 1 through the present date in the year):

Lightning-caused fires: 268 fires burned approximately 20,455 acres
Human-caused fires: 525 fires burned approximately 4,316 acres
Total: 793 fires burned approximately 24,771 acres

This is the Oregon Department of Forestry Daily Fire Update for Tuesday, August 24, 2010.

FIRES ON ODF-PROTECTED LANDS:
Central Oregon District – John Day Unit: The Long Box Fire, reported on August 23, 2010, six miles east of Dayville and north of Highway 26, is 100 percent lined, with containment expected today. Agencies involved included the Mt. Vernon Rural Fire Department, State Fire Marshall's Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation. Aircraft and engine crews responded as private land and the Phillip W. Schneider Wildlife Area operated by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife was threatened, including one residence and three other structures. The fire spread was stopped at about 6:30 p.m. on August 23, at 48 acres, with retardant and helicopter bucket drops. An engine patrolled the fire overnight for hot spots, and two engines and a 20-person hand crew are currently conducting mop-up activities, as well as continuing to patrol for hot-spots. Unless the situation changes, this will be the only report on this fire.

OHV trails in the Tillamook State Forest are CLOSED. Due to increased fire danger, effective at 12:01 a.m., Tuesday, August 24, 2010, the off-highway vehicle trails in the Tillamook State Forest are CLOSED. Off-highway vehicle activity in the Browns Camp, Jordan Creek, Diamond Mill, and Trask off-highway vehicle areas will be limited to operation on maintained forest roads only.

FIRES ON OTHER LANDS IN OREGON:
The 200-acre Scott Mountain Fire is burning approximately two miles northeast of Scott Mountain, 15 miles west of Sisters, and 14 miles northeast of McKenzie Bridge. The fire was ignited by lightning during last week's storm, but did not become active until warm winds influenced it on Monday, August 23, when it started running, spotting, crowning, and torching, growing from approximately five to 200 acres in three hours. The interagency Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 3 has been ordered to assume management of this fire.

A closure area is in effect that includes Forest Service roads east of Highway 126, many of which access trailheads into the Mt. Washington wilderness. Additionally, Scott Lake and Alder Springs campgrounds are closed and visitors have been required to leave, and several trails in the area have also been closed. More information on this fire is available on Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2082/.

The White Lightning Fire, burning on Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs lands, is currently estimated at 24,397 acres and 10 percent contained Monday. The Deschutes River is closed to rafting from Warm Springs to Maupin. The Northwest Oregon Interagency Incident Management Team is assigned to this fire and updates are available through InciWeb: http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2075/
The Oak Flat Fire continues to burn in the Rogue River National Forest in Josephine County two miles northeast of the junction of the Illinois River and Briggs Creek, about 20 miles southwest of Grants Pass. The fire is currently estimated at 4,363 acres and is 65 percent contained. The interagency Oregon-California (ORCA) incident management team is assigned to this fire. A road, trail, and campground closure is still in effect. Updates on the fire are available through InciWeb: http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2066/
Mt. Hood National Forest: Due to fire activity, the Olallie Lake Scenic Area, access to Breitenbush Lake, and portions of the Bull of the Woods Wilderness Area are closed. More information is available at http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mthood/.

OTHER FIRE INFORMATION:
For information on other ongoing wildfires in other jurisdictions within Oregon, go to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center website, http://www.nwccweb.us/ and to the national Incident Information System website at http://www.inciweb.org/state/38

ABOUT THIS UPDATE:
The Oregon Department of Forestry is responsible for fire protection on private and state-owned forestland, and on a limited amount of other forestlands, including those owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in western Oregon. However, because fires starting on one land ownership type may spread to others, and because of the need to share firefighting resources, agencies commonly work together closely.
This update focuses primarily on firefighting activity on Oregon Department of Forestry-protected land, and on the department's role as a partner in fighting major fires that start on land protected by other agencies.

FIRE STATISTICS:
Fire statistics for the current year and the average over the past 10 years for the forestland protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry:

Effective August 24, 2010:

January 1, 2010 through today:

Lightning-caused fires: 179 fires burned approximately 727 acres
Human-caused fires: 314 fires burned approximately 4,918 acres
Total: 493 fires have burned approximately 5,645 acres

10-year average (January 1 through the present date in the year):

Lightning-caused fires: 267 fires burned approximately 20,455 acres
Human-caused fires: 520 fires burned approximately 4,159 acres
Total: 787 fires burned approximately 24,613 acres

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) will resume road restrictions this fall in the western part of the Tillamook State Forest to improve deer and elk escapement during hunting season.

Some roads will be closed to motorized use during general archery and rifle hunting seasons in September, October and November. Selected roads in the Trask, Wilson and Nehalem River areas will be gated and signed. Controlled access during those three months is designed to reduce hunting pressure in these areas.

Three new areas, Sibley Arch, Hoskins Creek and Bales Creek, will be closed to motorized vehicles.

Hunters and other recreational users are welcome to access the gated areas by foot, mountain bike, horse or other non-motorized means.

ODF is partnering with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and the Tillamook Chapter of the Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) in this program.

Motorized access by ODF staff or contractors working in those areas may occur on occasion. Maps of the road management areas are available at the Tillamook ODF office located at 5005 Third Street, Tillamook and at the Tillamook District's Web site at http://egov.oregon.gov/ODF/FIELD/TILLAMOOK/about Tillamook.shtml. Once at this link go to the "Recreation" section for the information.

If you have questions about the road management program, contact Bob Teran at the Tillamook ODF office (503-815-7020) or Herman Biederbeck at the Tillamook ODFW office (503-842-2741).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Distribution: Major Media
August 20, 2010 Contact: Kevin Weeks, 503-689-6879
10-43


Forestry officials urged recreationists and local residents to exercise extreme caution with fire Friday as efforts continued to find and put out fires from a swarm of lightning strikes earlier this week.

More than 1,200 lightning strikes pummeled forestland in eastern Lane and Linn counties on Tuesday. Lightning-caused fires can simmer deep in the forest for days before rapidly growing large enough to detect.

"We expect to find more ‘sleeper' fires every afternoon as the clouds lift and the sun warms up the ground," said Lena Tucker, district forester in the Oregon Department of Forestry's South Cascade District.

"We always urge the public to be cautious in using fire, but that is doubly important now, when the response to the lightning storms is stretching resources very thin."

The Oregon Department of Forestry, the U.S. Forest Service, other firefighting agencies, and forest landowners are all making essential contributions. "The whole system is coordinated and working well," Tucker said. "But it will take some time to find all the fires."

The Oregon Department of Forestry protects about 1.3 million acres of forestland in its South Cascade District, which has offices in Springfield and Sweet Home. The Forest Service has fire protection responsibility on the Willamette National Forest.

On private lands, Tucker said, "Landowners have been actively patrolling their ownerships and notifying us of any smoke they detect. We could not cover all the land we protect if they were not assisting us." Landowners also take direct fire suppression action.

The lightning sweep has caused at least five fires, all stopped at less than an acre, on state-protected land. The Willamette National Forest has reported about 125 lightning-caused fire starts.

"We expect cool weather over the weekend, but we'd like to remind people to be careful with fire, particularly with recreational campfires."

Public use restrictions are in effect in the area. These include:
1. Smoking is prohibited while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water, and on sand or gravel bars that lie between water and high water marks that are free of vegetation.
2. Open fires are prohibited, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except at designated locations. Portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels are allowed.
3. Chain saw use is prohibited in areas subject to Industrial Fire Precaution Level III and IV.
4. Chain saw use is prohibited, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., in areas subject to Industrial Fire Precaution Level I and II. Chain saw use is permitted at all other hours, if the following fire fighting equipment is present with each operating saw: one axe, one shovel, and one operational 8 ounce or larger fire extinguisher. In addition, a fire watch is required at least one 1 hour following the use of each saw.
5. Use of motorized vehicles, including motorcycles and all terrain vehicles, is prohibited, except on improved roads or for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.
6. All motor vehicles must be equipped with one gallon of water or one operational 2 1/2 pound or larger fire extinguisher, one axe, and one shovel, except when traveling on state and county roads. All-terrain vehicles and motorcycles must be equipped with one operational 2 1/2 pound or larger fire extinguisher, except when traveling on state and county roads."
7. Use of fireworks is prohibited.
8. Cutting, grinding and welding of metal is prohibited, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Cutting, grinding and welding of metal is permitted at all other hours, if conducted in a cleared area and if a water supply is present.
9. Use of exploding targets is prohibited.
10. Mowing of dried and cured grass with power driven equipment is prohibited, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., except for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.
11. Blasting is prohibited between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Blasting is permitted at all other hours, if conducted in a cleared area and if a water supply is present.

To report a wildfire, people should call 911.
###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Distribution: Major Media
August 20, 2010 Contact: Gary Lettman, 503-945-7408
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A struggling economy, reflected in weak housing and nonresidential construction, drove Oregon's 2009 timber harvest to historic lows. The harvest of 2.748 billion board feet is 20 percent lower than the already depressed 2008 harvest and the lowest since the Great Depression-level harvest of 2.622 billion board feet. Timber harvest information to-date for 2010 shows harvest levels slowly increasing, but a major recovery in harvests is not forecast until 2011 or beyond according to Oregon Department of Forestry economist Gary Lettman. "Oregon's forest industry infrastructure, although much reduced in recent years, remains intact," said Lettman. "There have been numerous recent temporary mill shutdowns, but few mills are being permanently shuttered."

Most of the timber harvest decline was in western Oregon, declining from 3.079 billion board feet in 2008 to 2.403 billion board feet in 2009. Even though the eastern Oregon timber harvest volume has been decreasing every year since 2005, the decline in harvest is slowing. Eastern Oregon harvest volume had dropped 45 percent from 2004- 2008, but dropped only 5 percent from 2008-2009.

Douglas County jumped in front of Lane County as having the highest volume harvested during 2009, with 384 million board feet. Lane County, the top 2008 producer of timber volume, dropped 22 percent in 2009 to 338 million board feet. In western Oregon, Yamhill was the only county that harvested more timber in 2009 than in 2008, with an increase in harvest of 581 thousand board feet. Klamath County once again harvested the most timber in eastern Oregon, with a cut of 77 million board feet – a 14 percent increase from 2008.

Most timber harvested in Oregon comes from forest industry landowners and those harvests declined significantly in 2009, with the change between 2008 and 2009 representing the largest change in timber harvest by ownership class. Cutting 2.583 billion board feet in 2008, the forest industry accounted for 75 percent of Oregon's total volume removed. In 2009, the forest industry's volume harvested decreased by 597 million board feet, a 23 percent drop to 1.986 billion board feet. Most of this decline occurred in western Oregon, where 2009 forest industry harvests decreased in every county. Forest industry timber harvests in eastern Oregon decreased by only 6 percent. The forest industry harvested more timber in 2009 than in 2008 in Klamath, Jefferson, Morrow, and Wasco counties.

"Even in a struggling timber economy, Oregon's Native American Tribes and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management were able to increase timber harvests in 2009," Lettman said. Tribal timber harvests increased 13 percent for 2009 to a total of 65 million board feet. The Bureau of Land Management increased harvest from 2008 by 26 percent to a total of 147 million board feet, making 2009 that agency's highest timber harvest since 1999.

For more information please contact Gary Lettman, Principal Forest Economist, at 503-945-7408 or glettman@odf.state.or.us.

This information and more is available in the recently released Oregon Department of Forestry 2009 Annual Timber Harvest Report – a compilation of statewide data pertaining to timber harvests.

The 2009 report, as well as previous years' annual reports, is available online on the department's website at www.oregon.gov/ODF/STATE_FORESTS/FRP/annual_Reports.shtml.


###

Rising temperatures and falling humidity have elevated wildfire danger across Oregon. Firefighters battling existing blazes are experiencing the worsening conditions first-hand as they cope with soaring flame lengths and rapid fire spread. These weather-induced flare-ups test fire lines and require extra firefighting resources.

Lightning is predicted to occur on Tuesday and Wednesday, raising the specter of multiple fire starts in the forest. Whenever thunderstorms bearing little or no rain sweep over the region during a hot, dry period, scores of new fires are likely to be left in their wake. Firefighters must race against time to suppress these lightning starts, which often burn in remote forested areas with difficult access.

While lightning is an ever-present threat, people cause about two-thirds of the wildfires in a typical year. In recent weeks federal, state and local fire agencies have tightened fire safety rules in the forest. Most areas currently prohibit campfires, driving/riding motorized vehicles off of major roadways, and smoking outside of a closed vehicle. Other restrictions are in place as well.

"We ask the public to be very careful and cautious when they are in the woods or the wildland-urban interface," Oregon Department of Forestry's (ODF) Travis Medema said. "Under these conditions fires can explode in minutes."

The deputy chief of ODF's Protection Division also urged recreationists who see a fire to report it immediately by calling 911.

"Early detection can help us get firefighting resources on a fire quickly while it is still small," he said.

Before traveling to the forest, recreationists are encouraged to contact the appropriate land management agency to learn the current fire restrictions. The rules are subject to change on short notice during this period of high fire danger.

Many private forest landowners have closed their lands to the public due to the volatile conditions. Current access status of corporate forestlands can be found at: www.oregon.gov/ODF/FIRE/corporate_closure.shtml.

Fires on Oregon Dept. of Forestry-protected lands:
The 74-acre Garrish Valley Fire reported Saturday evening in Oregon Dept. of Forestry's (ODF) Forest Grove District in northwestern Oregon has been contained. Firefighters mopped up the blaze on Sunday evening and will patrol the site today. At the peak of the suppression action, resources on the fire included: seven ODF fire engines, 10 rural fire district engines, five South Fork Forest Camp inmate hand crews and four water tenders.

Breaking news about wildfires on lands protected by ODF can be found on the Web at: wildfireoregondeptofforestry.blogspot.com

Fires on other forestlands in Oregon:
The Oak Flat Fire on the Wild Rivers Ranger District of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest has grown to an estimated 500 acres. Yesterday's burning conditions led to a series of runs up the steep slopes of the Briggs Creek drainage approximately 20 miles west of Grants Pass, with firebrands sparking spot fires up to a half-mile ahead of the main fire front. Today firefighters will work to establish both direct and indirect fireline, scout for additional containment opportunities, and improve access to the fire area.

Four heavy-lift helicopters will be used to cool the fire's edge and provide assistance to the hand crews as they construct containment lines. Additional crews, aircraft, fire engines and other firefighting equipment have been ordered and are expected to be deployed today. The ORCA Type 2 Incident Management Team will assume management of the fire at 6 p.m. The Incident Command Post will be located at Lake Selmac.

Visit Inciweb at http://www.inciweb.org/state/38/ for information on active/contained fires on forestlands in Oregon.

FIRE STATISTICS
Fire statistics for the current year and the average over the past 10 years for the 15.8 million acres of forestland protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry:

January 1, 2010 through today
Lightning-caused fires: 125 fires burned approximately 212 acres
Human-caused fires: 272 fires burned approximately 4,922 acres
Total: 397 fires have burned approximately 5,134 acres

10-year average (January 1 through the present date in the year)
Lightning-caused fires: 244 fires burned approximately 19,880 acres
Human-caused fires: 480 fires burned approximately 3,455 acres
Total: 724 fires burned approximately 23,335 acres

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) invites landowners with woody debris left over from fuel hazard reduction, timber harvest or road-clearing activities to apply to have it removed using federal stimulus funds. ODF will tap American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant funds to pay contractors to process and transport forest by-product material to local cogeneration facilities and thermal applications.

"A total of $87,000 is available for contractor payment to remove forest by-products," stewardship forester Robin Biesecker said. "These Recovery Act grants are for removing slash piles that pose a fire hazard. Also, instead of landowners burning slash in the field, these grants will allow the woody material to be converted to power and thermal energy."

ODF stewardship foresters will administer all contractor work to complete these projects. The Recovery Act grants are being provided by the U.S. Forest Service's Pacific Northwest Region.

Forest landowners may apply by filling out a one-page application form available from the ODF Roseburg Unit office.

Key factors that will be weighed in considering an application for a grant award include:
* Total tons of biomass available
* Proximity to other biomass removal sites
* Road access
* Composition (species mix; dirt, rock, or metal impurities)
* Location (landing piles, along roads, collection site)

To qualify for consideration, a landowner must have at least five tons of woody biomass on his/her Douglas County forestland. The residual biomass must be located at one or more collection sites, piled along a road, or piled in a harvest unit. Because the grants are directed at helping small woodland owners, an applicant cannot own more than 5,000 acres of forestland.

Completed grant applications are now being received by the ODF Roseburg Unit office. Staff will be available to assist landowners in completing the form.

Application forms may be obtained from the ODF Roseburg Unit office, 1758 NE Airport Rd. in Roseburg, or can be found on the web,
www.oregon.gov/ODF/FIELD/ROSE/aboutus.shtml.

More information on Oregon Department of Forestry's federal Recovery Act projects can be found at: www.oregon.gov/odf. For information on all Recovery Act projects being administered by Oregon State Government agencies, go to the Oregon Recovery Act website, www.oregon.gov/recovery/index.page.

The growing wildfire hazard prompted the Oregon Department of Forestry's (ODF) South Cascade District to increased fire safety restrictions in the forest effective Aug. 13. Areas WL-1, WL-2 and WL-3 are now under the heightened restrictions, known as a "Regulated-Use Closure."

"The predicted high temperatures, coupled with regular seasonal drying, are likely to create conditions in which any fire start will spread rapidly, even at higher elevations," ODF forester Ed Keith said.

Other areas of the district entered Regulated Use on July 22.

The Regulated-Use Closure affects non-industrial activities in the forest, including:

1. Smoking is prohibited while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water, and on sand or gravel bars that lie between water and high water marks that are free of vegetation.

2. Open fires are prohibited, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except at designated locations. Portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels are allowed.

3. Chainsaw use is prohibited in areas subject to Industrial Fire Precaution Levels III and IV.

4. Chainsaw use is prohibited between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. in areas subject to Industrial Fire Precaution Level I and II. Chainsaw use is permitted at all other hours, if the following firefighting equipment is present with each operating saw: one ax, one shovel and one operational 8-oz. or larger fire extinguisher. In addition, a fire watch is required at least one hour following the use of each saw.

5. Use of motorized vehicles, including motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, is prohibited, except on improved roads or for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.

6. All motor vehicles must be equipped with one gallon of water or one operational 2- 1/2 lb. or larger fire extinguisher, one ax, and one shovel, except when traveling on state and county roads. All-terrain vehicles and motorcycles must be equipped with one operational 2- 1/2 lb. or larger fire extinguisher, except when traveling on state and county roads.

7. Use of fireworks is prohibited.

8. Cutting, grinding and welding of metal is prohibited between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Cutting, grinding and welding of metal is permitted at all other hours, if conducted in a cleared area with a water supply present.

9. Use of exploding targets is prohibited.

10 Mowing of dried and cured grass with power-driven equipment is prohibited between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m., except for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.

11 Blasting is prohibited between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Blasting is permitted at all other hours, if conducted in a cleared area with a water supply present.

The South Cascade District encompasses forestlands in Linn County and the eastern portion of Lane County.

More information on the Regulated-Use Closure may be obtained by calling the Department of Forestry's South Cascade District office, 541-726-3588.

A group of commissioners from counties that in the past deeded forestland to the state for management will meet on Friday, Aug. 27, in Salem.

The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee's (FTLAC) agenda includes: Discussion of high-conservation areas. An update on the work of a broad-based coalition that is formulating ideas for a sustainable funding base for the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF).

Additional agenda items include:

- Update on Swiss Needle cast, a tree disease seen on state-owned forestlands very near the coast.
- State forest timber-sale revenue forecast.
- Ongoing discussion of proposed changes to the Greatest Permanent Value rule, the standard that is used to manage state forests for broad benefits.
- Update on legislative initiatives.
- Overview of topics for the Sept. 8, 2010 Oregon Board of Forestry meeting relating to the forest management planning rule and land exchanges.

The meeting will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Santiam Room of the Department of Forestry's operations building, 2600 State St. FTLAC meetings are open to the public, and an opportunity for public comment will be provided at 11 a.m.

The FTLAC is a legally mandated committee of county commissioners representing counties that deeded lands to the state. The committee advises the Board of Forestry on matters where counties may have a responsibility related to forestland managed by ODF. Planning and policy decisions made by the board and department can affect revenues received by the counties with forest trust lands managed by ODF, which are located in the Tillamook State Forest and elsewhere.

Counties depend on revenue generated from management activities on these lands. The revenue is used primarily for local schools, and also helps fund county government and local taxing districts.

FTLAC is made up of seven members that represent the 15 counties that have state forest land within their county boundaries. The 15 trust counties are Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Douglas, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Polk, Tillamook and Washington.

The schedule of upcoming meetings will be available in the near future.

It takes a lot to get a geologist to look up from the ground, let alone get him airborne, but that's what's happening this weekend as geologists from the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) and the Oregon Civil Air Patrol team up in an exercise to simulate reconnoissance efforts following a major earthquake on the Cascadia Subduction Zone.

"The coastal hazards and landslide exercise currently underway with the Oregon Civil Air Patrol is simulating the response to a major earthquake on the Cascadia Subduction Zone, with the potential to trigger a significant tsunami on the coast and potentially widespread landslide activity in the Coast range, which would shut down major highway corridors that connect the Willamette Valley to the coast," said DOGAMI scientist Jonathan Allan.

"The Oregon Civil Air Patrol, the US Coast Guard, and DOGAMI staff, will be conducting aerial surveillance of the coast, along the Columbia River, Highway 20 and 34 corridors and in southern Oregon for the purposes of collecting pre-event digital imagery as baseline data to prepare for when the next event occurs." said Allan.

DOGAMI is one of the lead State agencies focused on defining and preparing for dealing with natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and extreme storms. Post-event documentation of potential natural disasters provides DOGAMI and other scientists with valuable information about the cause and effects of such events. This type of work results in improved hazard maps and information that can be used to safe-guard the environment, people and vulnerable infrastructure, like roads, bridges, utility lines and communications.

As the official civilian, volunteer auxiliary of the USAF, the U.S. Civil Air Patrol performs over 95% of all air search and rescue missions across the country as tasked by the Air Force utilizing the world's largest fleet single engined aircraft.

The Oregon wing is comprised of adult and teenaged members who participate in monthly training missions in support of the Oregon Office of Emergency Management as well as local jurisdictions who request assistance. For more information, please visit the national CAP website at www.GoCivilAirPatrol.com. or visit the Oregon CAP website at http://orwg.uscap.us/

Sept. 2, 2010

Oregon Public Health issues advisory for North Fork Reservoir

High algae levels found in Clackamas County North Fork Reservoir

A health advisory prompted by high algae levels found in North Fork Reservoir, located seven miles south of Estacada on Highway 224, was issued today by Oregon Public Health and Clackamas County Health Department officials.

Water monitoring has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. These algae levels are likely to be associated with dangerous toxin concentrations in the water, according to World Health Organization guidelines.

Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals.

Drinking water from North Fork Reservoir is especially dangerous. Oregon Public Health officials advise campers and other North Fork Reservoir visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating the water with camping-style filters.
People who draw in-home water directly from North Fork Reservoir are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective in removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. If people on public water systems have questions about treatment and testing, they should contact their water supplier.

Oregon Public Health recommends that people who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present should remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues.

Additionally, public health officials advise that people should not eat crayfish or freshwater shellfish harvested from North Fork Reservoir while this advisory is in effect.

Exposure to toxins can produce symptoms of numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are particularly susceptible.

The public will be advised when the concern no longer exists.

With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit North Fork Reservoir and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, catch-and-release fishing and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray, which could lead to inhalation risk.

For local information contact Portland General Electric at 503-630-8233.

For health information, contact the Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/hab; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or Clackamas County Health Department at 503-655-8386.

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Sept. 2, 2010

Health officials issue recommendations to coaches and school to prevent similar injuries

After investigating the illnesses that affected the McMinnville High School Football Team in August, Oregon Public Health officials concluded that multiple factors were likely the cause. They also are issuing recommendations to prevent similar injuries from happening to other athletes.

"There is not one factor that we can pinpoint as the cause. Rather, it appears that multiple factors including the type of exercise, the hot day and not enough water for some of the players contributed to their illnesses. Our goal is to prevent similar injuries in our state's young athletes," said Katrina Hedberg, M.D., M.P.H., Oregon state epidemiologist.

Specific factors contributing to the illnesses included the intense, short-duration, repetitive burst of resistance exercise on Sunday, Aug. 15, which focused on the upper body including the arm muscles, as well as bodily stress from heat and unrecognized dehydration. Water was available and coaches encouraged consumption. However, most team members did not drink water while inside in the wrestling room, where an upper arm workout session was held.

During the week of August 15, 43 football team members participated in a pre-season varsity football camp. Of those players, three had triceps compartment syndrome requiring surgery; five members had rhabdomyolysis with muscle pain and creatine kinase levels 100 times the upper limit of the normal range, according to the laboratory limits; and 14 others had muscle pain and creatine kinase levels between 10 and 100 times the upper limit of normal. Compartment syndrome is characterized by abnormally high pressures in an enclosed muscle compartment that impedes blood flow and requires surgery. Rhabdomyolysis is muscle injury that can lead to kidney failure. Creatine kinase is a blood test marker of muscle injury.

Football team members did not report use of illicit or performance-enhancing drugs. Blood tests for creatine levels were inconclusive because the tests do not distinguish creatine supplementation from naturally occurring creatine levels.

Facilities assessment of the gym and wrestling room did not find any evidence that other environmental factors, including water quality, carbon monoxide, or other possible toxins contributed to illness. There was no evidence that infections or contaminated food or drinks were associated with illnesses.

Oregon Public Health Division began its investigation in coordination with the Yamhill County Health Department on August 23. Health officials interviewed 40 of the 43 team members and met with coaches, school administrators, hospital administrators, and Willamette Valley Medical Center physicians who treated the players. Health officials also reviewed the team's hospital medical records and they systematically assessed symptoms and exposures. The state public health team included two epidemiologists, a public health intern, an industrial hygienist, the state epidemiologist, a medical epidemiologist and the manager of the injury prevention and epidemiology section.

Public Health officials began investigating to confirm the diagnoses and to identify the factors that led to the illnesses to help ensure the safety of people participating in sports and to prevent similar illnesses from recurring.

Based on this preliminary report, public health officials recommend for exercise programs that:
1. Oregon coaches, trainers, school administrators, health professionals, parents and recreational athletes recognize that intense, short-duration, repetitive resistance exercise involving a single muscle compartment can lead to serious health complications.
2. Both during and outside of the official sports season, Oregon coaches, trainers, and school administrators routinely and explicitly assess potential health and safety hazards to student-athletes, and implement appropriate countermeasures as warranted, such as activity modification, rest breaks, and hydration.

The full report is public and is available on the : http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/ipe/index.shtml

# # #

High toxin levels confirmed in Douglas County South Umpqua River near Lawson Bar

Oregon Public Health officials have received confirmation of high algae toxins in the South Umpqua River, Lawson Bar area off Interstate 5 Exit 102 near Canyonville.

Water samples were collected and a health advisory for the area was issued on Aug. 24 due to concern for algae levels following the death of a pet dog in the area and visual observation of algae scum.

Tissue samples from the dog are being conducted but results are not yet complete.

Health officials emphasize that swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans and animals.

Drinking water from the South Umpqua River Lawson Bar area is especially dangerous. Oregon Public Health officials advise campers and other South Umpqua River Lawson Bar area visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating the water with camping style filters.

People who draw in-home water directly from the South Umpqua River Lawson Bar area are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective in removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. If people on public water systems have questions about treatment and testing, they should contact their water supplier.

Oregon Public Health recommends that people who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present should remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues.

Additionally, public health officials advise that people should not eat crayfish or freshwater shellfish harvested from the South Umpqua River Lawson Bar area while this advisory is in effect.

Exposure to toxins can produce symptoms of numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are particularly susceptible.

The public will be advised when the concern no longer exists.

With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit the South Umpqua River Lawson Bar area and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, catch-and-release fishing and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray, which could lead to inhalation risk.

For health information, contact the Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/hab; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or Jerry Meyer at the Douglas County Health Department at 541-440-3578.

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Aug. 30, 2010

Health advisory lifted for water contact at Harris Beach State Park:
Testing shows fecal bacteria levels have subsided at Curry County beach

A health advisory for contact with marine water at Harris Beach State Park in Curry County was lifted today by the Oregon Public Health Division in conjunction with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

The advisory was issued Aug. 12, after water samples at Harris Beach State Park showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in the marine water. Subsequent testing showed the contamination had subsided and the water did not pose a higher-than-normal risk associated with water-contact activities.

State officials encourage recreational activities at all Oregon beaches, suggesting only that water contact be avoided when advisories are in effect.

Since 2003 state officials have used a federal Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are Oregon Public Health, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information contact the Beach Monitoring program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/beach; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767.

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Aug. 30, 2010

Oregon Public Health issues advisory for Sru Lake:
High algae levels found in Coos County Sru Lake

A health advisory prompted by high algae levels found in Sru Lake, located 21 miles southeast of Powers on Forest Service Road 3348-080, was issued today by Oregon Public Health and Coos County Health Department officials.

Water monitoring has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. These algae levels are likely to be associated with dangerous toxin concentrations in the water, according to World Health Organization guidelines.

Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals.

Drinking water from Sru Lake is especially dangerous. Oregon Public Health officials advise campers and other Sru Lake visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating the water with camping-style filters.

People who draw in-home water directly from Sru Lake are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective in removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. If people on public water systems have questions about treatment and testing, they should contact their water supplier.

Oregon Public Health recommends that people who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present should remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues.

Additionally, public health officials advise that people should not eat crayfish or freshwater shellfish harvested from Sru Lake while this advisory is in effect.

Exposure to toxins can produce symptoms of numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are particularly susceptible.

The public will be advised when the concern no longer exists.

With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit Sru Lake and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, catch-and-release fishing and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray, which could lead to inhalation risk.

For local information contact the Powers Ranger District, Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest at www.fs.fed.us/r6/rogue-siskiyou or 541-439-6200.

For health information, contact the Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/hab; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767.

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Aug. 26, 2010

Oregon Public Health issues advisory for Blue Lake:
High algae levels found in Multnomah County Blue Lake

A health advisory prompted by high algae levels found in Blue Lake, located 20 miles east of Portland on NE Marine Drive, was issued today by Oregon Public Health and Multnomah County Health Department officials.

Water monitoring has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. These algae levels are likely to be associated with dangerous toxin concentrations in the water, according to World Health Organization guidelines.

Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals.

Drinking water from Blue Lake is especially dangerous. Oregon Public Health officials advise that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating the water with camping-style filters.

People who draw in-home water directly from Blue Lake are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective in removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. If people on public water systems have questions about treatment and testing, they should contact their water supplier.

Oregon Public Health recommends that people who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present should remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues.

Additionally, public health officials advise that people should not eat crayfish or freshwater shellfish harvested from Blue Lake while this advisory is in effect.

Exposure to toxins can produce symptoms of numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are particularly susceptible.

The public will be advised when the concern no longer exists.

With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit Blue Lake and enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, picnicking, catch-and-release fishing and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray, which could lead to inhalation risk.

For local information contact Clyde Keebaugh, Columbia District supervisor, Metro Parks and Environmental Services, 503-665-6918.

For health information, contact the Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/hab; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or Jon Kawaguchi, Multnomah County Health Department at 503-988-3400 ext 28260.

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Theodore R. Kulongoski, Governor

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 24, 2010

Media Contacts:
Anna Richter Taylor, 503-378-6169
Cathy Kaufmann (DHS), 503-569-4514

Governor Launches New Campaign with School and Community Coaches to Educate Families about Healthy Kids:
Governor joined by US HHS Secretary Sebelius to issue larger challenge to all states to enroll all eligible kids in the Children's Health Insurance Program

(Portland) —Governor Ted Kulongoski today was joined by Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to launch a new Healthy Kids Sports Campaign, bringing parents, coaches, schools and community partners together to educate families about the availability of the Healthy Kids Program for uninsured children of all income levels.

The campaign is part of Oregon's response to Secretary Sebelius' "Connecting Kids to Coverage Challenge," which calls upon leaders in all levels of government, public agencies, community-based groups, health and human services providers, the faith community and others to reach out and enroll the 5 million uninsured children who are eligible for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program but are not enrolled.

Nearly 54,000 of Oregon's 80,000 uninsured children have enrolled since the plan was created by Governor Kulongoski and passed during the 2009 legislative session.

"I am proud of this achievement – especially during this difficult economic time when parents have enough to worry about. Ensuring their child has access to quality, comprehensive health care when they need it shouldn't be one of those worries," Governor Kulongoski said.

Today, while speaking with Secretary Sebelius at an event at a Portland high school, Governor Kulongoski said it is time to go the rest of the way and enroll all eligible but uninsured children into the state's health coverage program. The state is on schedule to meet the goal of enrolling 80,000 uninsured children by the end of 2010, which means 95 percent of all Oregon children will have health insurance.

"While we have been successful in enrolling children, we still have a population of children from birth to 19 years old who are eligible for the program and not enrolled. That is not acceptable to me – and it shouldn't be acceptable to any Oregonian," said the Governor.

The Governor called on all Oregonians to spread the word about Healthy Kids, particularly school and community sports coaches. Because children who play sports need a physical exam and health coverage to play, the state is partnering with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to implement a statewide campaign aimed at coaches.

"So please, coaches across Oregon, join us in this effort. Your victories on the field are important, but the greatest victory for Oregon will be when all of our children have the health coverage they need," said the Governor.

Healthy Kids provides several options for families to obtain health insurance for their children, depending on income level.

No Cost: The plan provides free coverage through the Oregon Health Plan for children in families with incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level (or $44,100 for a family of four).

Low-Cost: The program offers a cost-share model to assist Oregon's middle-class families earning too much to qualify for the Oregon Health Plan, but too little to purchase private insurance on their own. On a sliding scale, these families share in the cost of a new state-sponsored private insurance plan called Healthy KidsConnect.

Families who qualify for either No Cost or Low-Cost coverage may opt to get assistance to pay for their child's coverage through their employer-sponsored plan instead.

Full Cost: For children in families with incomes above 300 percent of the federal poverty level (or $66,000 for a family of four), parents may buy into Healthy KidsConnect at full cost.

No child is turned away for a preexisting medical condition. Parents can learn more about Healthy Kids and apply online at www.oregonhealthykids.gov or by calling 1-877-314-5678.

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Aug. 24, 2010

Oregon Public Health issues advisory for South Umpqua River near Lawson Bar:
High algae levels found in Douglas County South Umpqua River near Lawson Bar

A health advisory prompted by concern for high algae levels in the South Umpqua River, Lawson Bar off Interstate 5 Exit 102 near Canyonville, was issued today by Oregon Public Health and Douglas County Health Department officials.

Water testing for the presence of blue-green algae is underway following the death of a pet dog in the area and visual observation of algae scum. Such tests will show if toxin concentrations are present at levels that can be harmful to humans and animals.

Public health officials advise that swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals.

Drinking water from Umpqua River near Lawson Bar is especially dangerous. Oregon Public Health officials advise campers and other visitors to the Umpqua River near Lawson Bar that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating the water with camping style filters.

People who draw in-home water directly from the Umpqua River near Lawson Bar are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective in removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. If people on public water systems have questions about treatment and testing, they should contact their water supplier.

Oregon Public Health recommends that people who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present should remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues.

Additionally, public health officials advise that people should not eat crayfish or freshwater shellfish harvested from the Umpqua River near Lawson Bar while this advisory is in effect.

Exposure to toxins can produce symptoms of numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are particularly susceptible.

The public will be advised when the concern no longer exists.

With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit the Umpqua River near Lawson Bar and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, catch-and-release fishing and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray, which could lead to inhalation risk.

For health information, contact the Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/hab; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or Jerry Meyer at the Douglas County Health Department at 541-440-3578.

####

Aug. 24, 2010

Oregon Public Health issues advisory for Whetstone Pond:
High algae levels found in Jackson County Whetstone Pond

A health advisory prompted by high algae levels found in Whetstone Pond in the Denman Wildlife Area, located six miles north of Central Point, was issued today by Oregon Public Health and Jackson County Health Department officials.

Water monitoring has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. These algae levels are likely to be associated with dangerous toxin concentrations in the water, according to World Health Organization guidelines.

Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals.

Drinking water from Whetstone Pond is especially dangerous. Oregon Public Health officials advise campers and other Whetstone Pond visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating the water with camping-style filters.

People who draw in-home water directly from Whetstone Pond are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective in removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. If people on public water systems have questions about treatment and testing, they should contact their water supplier.

Oregon Public Health recommends that people who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present should remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues.

Additionally, public health officials advise that people should not eat crayfish or freshwater shellfish harvested from Whetstone Pond while this advisory is in effect.

Exposure to toxins can produce symptoms of numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are particularly susceptible.

The public will be advised when the concern no longer exists.

With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit Whetstone Pond and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, catch-and-release fishing and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray, which could lead to inhalation risk.

For local information, contact Dan Van Dyke or Clayton Barber at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, 541-826-8774.

For health information, contact the Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/hab; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767.

####

August 24, 2010

Oregon Health Authority and Policy Board to hold public meetings in September

The Oregon Health Authority and Policy Board are taking the next steps in developing a plan to lower costs, increase access and improve the quality of health care. Public meetings are scheduled across the state in September, providing an opportunity to learn more about the plan for health improvements and health care reform, and to share your input.

Recommendations for Oregon's plan for health reform were developed over the past year. Options are being considered now for the health insurance exchange, which will serve as a central marketplace for individuals and small businesses to purchase health insurance. The Oregon Health Policy Board is looking for citizen input on the plan. Individuals can learn more about the plan for health and health care improvements in Oregon and tell the state how the health insurance exchange will work best for them.

Join us:

September 1, 6 – 8 p.m.
Benton County Fairgrounds
Guerber Hall
110 SW 53rd St.
Corvallis

September 7, 6 – 8 p.m.
Baker County Public Library
2400 Resort Street
Baker City

September 9, 6 – 8 p.m.
Florence Events Center
715 Quince Street
Florence

September 13, 6 – 8 p.m.
University Place
Columbia River Ballroom
310 SW Lincoln St
Portland

September 15, 6 – 8 p.m.
Red Lion Inn
Crater Lake Room
200 N. Riverside Ave.
Medford

September 16, 6 – 8 p.m.
Central Oregon Community College
Campus Center Building, Wille Hall
2600 NW College Way
Bend

The Oregon Health Authority is a leader in the effort to innovate for quality and affordable health care in Oregon by improving the health of Oregonians and working to lower the cost of care so it is affordable and accessible to everyone. A nine-member citizen-led group called the Oregon Health Policy Board oversees the Oregon Health Authority. To learn more about OHA, visit www.oregon.gov/OHA. Connect with us at www.Facebook.com/OregonHealthAuthority and www.Twitter.com/OHAOregon.

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Aug. 23, 2010

Reduced blue-green algae levels confirmed

A health advisory prompted by high algae levels found in Fish Lake, located 30 miles east of Medford, was lifted today by Oregon Public Health and Jackson County Health Department officials.

The advisory went into effect Aug. 9.

Water monitoring has confirmed reduced levels of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals.

These reduced levels are not likely to be associated with dangerous toxin concentrations in the water, according to World Health Organization guidelines.

Oregon Public Health advises people who recreate in Oregon water bodies to always be alert to signs of algae blooms. People and their pets should avoid water contact if there are visible clumps of algae in the water.

For local information contact the High Cascades Ranger District office at 541-560-3400 or 541-865-2700.

For health information, contact the Oregon Public Health Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/hab; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-676.

###

Aug. 23, 2010

Reduced blue-green algae levels confirmed

A health advisory prompted by high algae levels found in Fish Lake, located in the Rogue-Umpqua Divide Wilderness, was lifted today by Oregon Public Health and Douglas County Health Department officials.

The advisory went into effect July 19.

Water monitoring has confirmed reduced levels of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals.

These reduced levels are not likely to be associated with dangerous toxin concentrations in the water, according to World Health Organization guidelines.

Oregon Public Health advises people who recreate in Oregon water bodies to always be alert to signs of algae blooms. People and their pets should avoid water contact if there are visible clumps of algae in the water.

For local information contact the Tiller Ranger District office at 541-825-3100 or
www.fs.fed.us/r6/umpqua/.

For health information, contact the Oregon Public Health Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/hab; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or Terry Westfall, Douglas County Health Department at 541-440-3569.

# # #

Aug. 19, 2010

Oregon Public Health issues advisory for Gerber Reservoir:
High algae levels found in Klamath County Gerber Reservoir

A health advisory prompted by high algae levels found in Gerber Reservoir, located 42 miles east of Klamath Falls, was issued today by Oregon Public Health and Klamath County Health Department officials.

Water monitoring has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. These algae levels are likely to be associated with dangerous toxin concentrations in the water, according to World Health Organization guidelines.

Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals.

Drinking water from Gerber Reservoir is especially dangerous. Oregon Public Health officials advise campers and other Gerber Reservoir visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating the water with camping style filters.

People who draw in-home water directly from Gerber Reservoir are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective in removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. If people on public water systems have questions about treatment and testing, they should contact their water supplier.

Oregon Public Health recommends that people who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present should remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues.

Additionally, public health officials advise that people should not eat crayfish or freshwater shellfish harvested from Gerber Reservoir while this advisory is in effect.

Exposure to toxins can produce symptoms of numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are particularly susceptible.

The public will be advised when the concern no longer exists.

With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit Gerber Reservoir and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, catch-and-release fishing and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray, which could lead to inhalation risk.

For local information contact the Bureau of Land Management Klamath Falls field office at
541-883-6916.

For health information, contact the Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/hab; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or Delbert Bell, Klamath County Health Department 541-883-1122.

####

April 19, 2010

Oregon Public Health lifts advisory for Willow Lake in Jackson County:
Reduced blue-green algae levels confirmed

A health advisory prompted by high algae levels found in Willow Lake, located 24 miles east of Medford, was lifted today by Oregon Public Health and Jackson County Health Department officials.

The advisory went into effect April 21, 2010.

Water monitoring has confirmed reduced levels of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals.

These reduced levels are not likely to be associated with dangerous toxin concentrations in the water, according to World Health Organization guidelines.

Oregon Public Health advises people who recreate in Oregon water bodies to always be alert to signs of algae blooms. People and their pets should avoid water contact if there are visible clumps of algae in the water.

For local information contact Steve Lambert, Jackson County Parks program manager, at
541-774-6303.

For health information, contact the Oregon Public Health Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/hab; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767.

####

Salmonella cases prompt recall of Umpqua Dairy milk, juice and drink products:
Roseburg, Ore., company is working with state agencies to ensure safe milk and juice products

Oregon Public Health officials today want to make sure consumers are aware of a recall of certain milk and drink products by Umpqua Dairy Products Co. sold in Oregon, southwest Washington and northern California. Umpqua, headquartered in Roseburg, Ore., instituted the milk products recall today after salmonellosis cases were linked to milk produced at its Roseburg plant.

Milk, half and half, cream and buttermilk as well as Umpqua Dairy brand gallon orange juice and fruit drinks are part of the recall. Ice cream and other dairy products, including sour cream and cottage cheese, are not being recalled.

Umpqua Dairy has temporarily suspended operation while it is working with public health officials and the Oregon Department of Agriculture to review their processing systems so the company can ensure its products are safe for public consumption.

The recall comes after 23 people, all in Oregon, have been laboratory-confirmed with matching DNA patterns of Salmonella Braenderup. Two people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported. Public health officials have been investigating the outbreak since the first cases were reported in October 2009.

"This outbreak has unfolded slowly and it was just recently that we were able to confirm the matching Salmonella strain in the Umpqua milk plant. We want to tell consumers that if they have any Umpqua milk at home, they should discard it or ask for a refund from the store where it was purchased. The risk to consumers is very low. We have had approximately one illness reported for every million containers that Umpqua has sold during this period," said Paul Cieslak, M.D., Oregon Public Health Division.

All Umpqua Dairy products are pasteurized. The pasteurization process is effective at removing Salmonella. Recent testing at the Roseburg Dairy, however, identified this type of Salmonella on several different surfaces.

The following numbers of people from these counties have been infected with this Salmonella: Douglas, 6; Marion, 3; Jackson, 3; Lane, 3; Linn, 3; Josephine, 2; Coos, 1; Deschutes, 1; and Klamath, 1. The median age of those sickened is 13 years.

Umpqua also sells under the labels: Cascade, Great Value, Lady Lee, Market of Choice and Sherm's. The company also supplies milk to Dairy Queens in Oregon and Washington. Those products that should be discarded or returned have a plant code 41-62 stamped on them. The recall affects milk, purchased on or prior to Monday, Aug. 16, 2010 or earlier or with an expiration date of Sept. 5, 2010 or earlier; buttermilk with an expiration date of Sept. 10, 2010, or earlier; orange juice and fruit drink with an expiration date of Sept. 15 or earlier.

Retailers and wholesalers that have any of the recalled products should call 888-672-MILK (6455) or visit the company website.

Salmonellosis is an acute bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Symptoms usually develop within one to five days after eating contaminated food. Most cases resolve without the need for medical attention, and antibiotics are not advised for people with
uncomplicated illness. People who have consumed any Umpqua Dairy products and developed severe symptoms should discuss this exposure with a health care provider.

For more product information please visit www.umpquadairy.com.

# # #

August 16, 2010

Health advisories for contact with marine water at Sunset Bay State Park Beach in Coos County and Battle Rock Wayside Beach in Curry County were lifted today by the Oregon Public Health Division in conjunction with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

The advisories were issued Wednesday, after water samples at Sunset Bay State Park Beach and Battle Rock Wayside Beach showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in the marine water. Subsequent testing showed the contamination had subsided and the water did not pose a higher-than-normal risk associated with water-contact activities.

State officials encourage recreational activities at all Oregon beaches, suggesting only that water contact be avoided when advisories are in effect.

Since 2003 state officials have used a federal Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are Oregon Public Health, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information contact the Beach Monitoring program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/beach; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767.

# # #

Aug. 13, 2010

Oregon Public Health officials offer hot weather safety tips:
Prevention is the best defense for people and their pets

With high temperatures hitting much of Oregon in the next several days, Oregon Public Health officials remind people to take precautions to avoid getting sick from extreme heat and be careful when swimming in Oregon's lakes, streams and the ocean.

Very high temperatures can create serious health problems. Pets are also affected by the higher temperatures.

"Prevention is the best defense," said Mel Kohn, M.D., M.P.H., director of Oregon Public Health. "Drinking plenty of water, staying out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, knowing the warning signs of heat-related illness and taking precautions when swimming are a few important steps people can take."

Kohn added: "We have had hot weather in the past, but with the climate change we are likely to have high temperature days in Oregon."

The first symptoms of health problems from the heat can include headache, dizziness and weakness. In extreme cases heat-related illness can cause convulsions and sudden loss of consciousness and can be fatal. Those at greatest risk for heat-related illness include infants and children up to 4 years of age, people 65 and older, people who are overweight, and people who are ill or on certain medications, as well as those who work outdoors.

As the air gets warmer many people seek relief in Oregon's many waterways. Health officials warn that many of Oregon's water bodies pose risks to swimmers due to water temperature and currents. Swimmers can experience hypothermia in cold water, or even cold shock that can cause involuntary gasping and can lead to drowning. Also, cold water can cause a severe decrease in the body's muscle performance, or "swim failure," which also can cause drowning. Alcohol use increases the risk of drowning. To be safe around water health officials advise the public to use life jackets; actively supervise children; never swim alone; and not mix swimming and alcohol consumption.

Here are some other tips to help you keep cool and avoiding a serious heat condition or water-related injury:
• Never leave children in a parked car, even if the windows are cracked open.
• Use the buddy system if you are working outside. Monitor the condition of your coworkers and have someone do the same for you.
• If you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. If you know someone in this age group, check on that person at least twice a day.
• Avoid hot foods and heavy meals, which add heat to your body.
• Avoid exercising outdoors during the heat of the day.
• Dress infants and children in cool, loose clothing and shade their heads and faces with hats or an umbrella.
• Limit sun exposure during midday hours.
• Draw all shades, blinds and curtains in rooms when exposed to direct sunlight.

Pets can be particularly affected by the high temperatures, according to Emilio DeBess, D.V.M., M.P.V.M., Oregon public health veterinarian.

Here are some tips to help pets:
• Provide shade. Ensure that your pet has protection from the heat and sun — a dog house does not provide relief from heat. Bring your pet inside during the hottest part for the day.
• Provide fresh water. Animals do not sweat like humans. They need fresh, clean water at all times. Refill with cool water often during the heat of the day if the animal must be kept outside.
• Limit exercise during the hottest hours of the day. Exercise your pet in the early morning or in the evening. When possible, walk your dog on the grass. Asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet's paws.
• Never leave your pet in a parked car. On an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle with the windows slightly open can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes. Overheating can result in irreversible organ damage and even death.

To learn more about hot weather safety tips, please visit:
www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/spotlight/heatsafety.shtml.

###

Date: Aug. 12, 2010

Health advisory issued for water contact at Sunset Bay State Park Beach:
Higher than normal bacteria levels found at Coos County beach

A public health advisory was issued Thursday due to higher-than-normal levels of bacteria in ocean waters at Sunset Bay State Park Beach in Coos County.

Increased pathogen and fecal bacteria levels in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources such as animal waste from seabirds, pets and livestock, storm water runoff, sewer overflows and failing septic systems.

Water samples indicate higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria, which can result in gastroenteritis, skin rashes and other illnesses. Direct contact with the water should be avoided until the advisory is lifted, especially for children and the elderly, who may be more vulnerable to waterborne bacteria.

While this advisory is in effect at Sunset Bay State Park Beach visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Even if there is no advisory in effect, officials recommend avoiding swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.

State officials advise that the status of water contact advisories at beaches is subject to change. For the most recent information on advisories, please visit www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 1-877-290-6767.

Although state officials discourage water contact, they continue to encourage other recreational activities such as walking, playing on the beach, flying kites and picnicking on these beaches because they pose no health risk even during an advisory. Neighboring beaches are not affected by this advisory.

Since 2003 state officials have used a federal Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state organizations participating in this program are Oregon Public Health, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information contact the Beach Monitoring program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/beach.

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Aug. 11, 2010

West Nile virus, a mild flu-like disease spread by mosquitoes, has been found at a site near Irrigon in northeast Oregon's Morrow County, according to Oregon Public Health officials.

Health officials advise people in Morrow County to take precautions against mosquitoes in order to avoid the risk of infection.

"The risk of contracting West Nile virus is low but we do encourage people to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves against mosquito bites," said Emilio DeBess, D.V.M., M.P.V.M., Oregon Public Health veterinarian.

This is the first case of West Nile virus in Oregon this year. Washington State and California have had West Nile virus mosquito activity since early summer.

Mosquito traps are set at night in various locations throughout the county. The trapped insects are sorted by species and tested for the virus.

Humans and animals can be infected by virus-carrying mosquitoes. Health officials recommend mosquito bite protection especially in the evening hours.

Eighty percent of people infected with West Nile virus exhibit no symptoms. Of the remaining 20 percent most have very mild symptoms such as fever, headaches and nausea lasting from three to six days. In a few cases, more severe symptoms occur including convulsions or disorientation. The central nervous system also may be affected resulting in fever-related headache, aseptic meningitis or encephalitis.

DeBess says simple precautions can prevent the spread of West Nile virus:

• Eliminate sources of standing water that are a breeding ground for mosquitoes, including watering troughs, birdbaths, clogged gutters and old tires.
• Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants in mosquito-infested areas.
• Use mosquito repellents containing DEET, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or Picardin and follow the directions on the container.
• Make sure screen doors and windows are in good repair and fit tightly.

Additional information about West Nile virus is available at: http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/acd/diseases/wnile/wnile.shtml.

Aug. 11, 2010

High algae levels found in Lane County Dexter Reservoir

A health advisory prompted by high algae levels found in Dexter Reservoir located 22 miles southeast of Eugene, was issued today by Oregon Public Health and Lane County Health Department officials.

Water monitoring has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. These algae levels are likely to be associated with dangerous toxin concentrations in the water, according to World Health Organization guidelines.

Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals.

Drinking water from Dexter Reservoir is especially dangerous. Oregon Public Health officials advise campers and other Dexter Reservoir visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating the water with camping style filters.

People who draw in-home water directly from Dexter Reservoir are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective in removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. If people on public water systems have questions about treatment and testing, they should contact their water supplier.

Oregon Public Health recommends that people who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present should remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues.

Additionally, public health officials advise that people should not eat crayfish or freshwater shellfish harvested from Dexter Reservoir while this advisory is in effect.

Exposure to toxins can produce symptoms of numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are particularly susceptible.

The public will be advised when the concern no longer exists.

With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit Dexter Reservoir and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, catch-and-release fishing and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray, which could lead to inhalation risk.

For local information contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Willamette Valley Recreation Office, 541-942-5631.

For health information, contact the Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at 971-673-0400 or www.healthoregon.org/hab; also contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767.

####

Basic Police 320 Graduation

The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is pleased to announce the graduation of its 320th Basic Police Class.

The Basic Police Class is 16-weeks in length and includes dozens of training areas including survival skills, firearms, emergency vehicle operations, ethics, cultural diversity, problem solving, elder abuse, drug recognition, and many other subjects. Chief Kerry Aleshire of the Forest Grove Police Department will be the guest speaker for this special event.

Graduation Date: September 17, 2010

Location: Hall or Heroes - Oregon Public Safety Academy
4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon

Time: 11:00 a.m. - Reception following ceremony

All family and friends of students, supervisors, department heads and city and county officials are welcome to attend.

Graduates of Basic Police 320:

Archer, David - OHSU University Police
Bach, Justin - Lebanon Police Department
Baglietto, Jonathon - Medford Police Department
Bezates, Todd - Springfield Police Department
Bick, Zachary - Washington County Sheriff's Office
Blanc, Joseph - Forest Grove Police Department
Brenner, Richard - Corvallis Police Department
Castile, Adam - Crook County Sheriff's Office
Chase, Chad - Klamath County Sheriff's Office
Craig, Michael - Reedsport Police Department
DelaTorre, Josh - Clackamas County Sheriff's Office
Demarco, Omar - Salem Police Department
Dodge, James - Corvallis Police Department
Douglas, Andrew - Springfield Police Department
Douglas, R. Wade - Ontario Police Department
Fenley, Stacy - Lane County Sheriff's Office
Firestone, Zachary - Grants Pass Dept of Public Safety
Gregory, Joshua - Cannon Beach Police Department
Herrman, Maksum - Hillsboro Police Department
Jentzsch, Gregory - Medford Police Department
Johnson, Jeremiah - Deschutes County Sheriff's Office
Junkin, David - Newberg-Dundee Police Department
Keller, April - Tigard Police Department
Kennerley, Carl - Roseburg Police Department
Larson, Matthew - Umatilla Police Department
Liden, Torin - Corvallis Police Department
Livingston, Steven - Pendleton Police Department
Marchbanks, Devan - Salem Police Department
Marchini, Daniel - Reedsport Police Department
Marciano, Daniel - Gresham Police Department
Moore, Johnathan - Grants Pass Dept of Public Safety
Moyer, Daniel - Clackamas County Sheriff's Office
Packineau, Phil - Scappoose Police Department
Ralph, Robert - Lane County Sheriff's Office
Riding, Kevin - Deschutes County Sheriff's Office
Shadrin, Matrona - Clackamas County Sheriff's Office
Teets, Steven - Forest Grove Police Department
Venables, Christian - Central Point Police Department
Zaugg, Michael - Washington County Sheriff's Office

## Background Information on the DPSST ##

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST)operates the Oregon Public Safety Academy which spans more than 212 acres in Salem. Eriks Gabliks serves as the Director, and Sheriff Andy Bentz of Malheur County serves as the Chair of the Board. The department implements minimum standards established by the Board for training and certification of city, county and state law enforcement officers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, fire service personnel, telecommunicators, emergency medical dispatchers and private security providers. DPSST provides training to more than 20,000 students each year throughout Oregon and at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem: certifies qualified officers at various levels from basic through executive; certifies qualified instructors; and reviews and accredits training programs throughout the state based on standards established by the Board.


Any questions please call Carolyn Kendrick at DPSST (503) 378-2358 or e-mail her at carolyn.kendrick@state.or.us.

FIFTH ANNUAL OREGON FALLEN FIRE FIGHTERS MEMORIAL HONORS 162 OREGON MEN AND WOMEN

Please join the Oregon Fire Service Honor Guard and the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training as they host the fifth annual Oregon Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial, Thursday, Sept. 16, at 1 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the Oregon Public Safety Academy, 4190 Aumsville Highway SE, Salem. The Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial is a tribute to fire service professionals and their families who have made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting lives and property across the state. During this year's ceremony a name will be added through the historic recognition process (info below).

Following the featured speakers, honor guard members will call out the names of Oregon's fallen, toll the fire bell in their honor and place two wreaths next to the memorial wall recognizing deceased career, volunteer and wildland fire fighters. The U.S. flag will be ceremonially folded and placed at the memorial wall as well. The event will end with a bagpipe tribute of "Amazing Grace," and a bugler playing the solemn notes of "Taps."

The Fire Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training approved the addition of a Coquille fire fighter to the state memorial earlier this year. The nomination was received through the historic recognition process which allows fire departments to submit the names of fallen fire fighters who died in-the-line-of-duty before 2006 to be considered for addition to the state memorial.

Background information on fire fighter to be added during this year's ceremony - On August 7, 1969, Captain Leland Roger Marshall was participating in an evening training exercise with the Coquille Volunteer Fire Department. During the exercise Marshall started suffering chest pains and was being transported to the hospital when has passed away. Captain Marshall was nominated for the Oregon Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial by five of his co-workers at the Coquille Fire Department who were present at the training exercise and tried to save his life in route to the hospital that was located 25 miles away in North Bend, Oregon.

For more information about the Oregon Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial and the men and women it honors please go to: http://www.oregon.gov/DPSST/FC/FallenFireFighterMemorial.shtml

If you have any questions regarding the Memorial, please contact Julie Olsen-Fink, Fire Certification Supervisor at 503.378.2297 or by email at julie.olsen-fink@state.or.us.

BPSST EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULED
For Immediate Release
Contact: Tammera Hinshaw 503-373-1553


The Executive Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training (BPSST) will hold a teleconference meeting and possible Executive Session at 1:30 p.m. on September 9, 2010. The meeting will be held at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem, Oregon. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made before the meeting by calling the contact listed above.

Agenda items:
1. Chair's Report and Administrative Announcements
2. *Minutes of June 10, 2010 meeting
3. *Medical Waiver - Tyler
4. *Brock, Ameele, DPSST #51429 - Not Deny Training and Subsequent Certification
5. *Clay Dunn, DPSST #51431 - Not Deny Training and Subsequent Certification
6. *Polygraph Licensing Advisory Committee - Reappointment - Sally Jo Donahue
7. Next Meeting - November 11, 2010 at 1:30 p.m.

*Requires a vote by the Committee

The Fallen Public Safety Officer License plate, honoring fallen firefighters and law enforcement officers that are killed in the line of duty, will be available from the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles on Wednesday, September 1st , 2010.

Money raised from the purchase of the license plate will support families and escorting officers as they attend the national memorial honoring the fallen public safety officer.

During the 2009 legislative session House Bill 2569 allowed for the Public Safety Officer License Plate to be added to DMV's specialty plate selection. It received nearly unanimous support from both the House and the Senate.

Money earned from the Fallen Public Safety Officer License plate will be put in a fund managed by the Police Memorial Trust Fund and a special committee comprised of law enforcement, fire department, and citizen members. Each license plate will cost an additional $8 a year (an additional $32 for two years of registration).

Oregon law requires that no tax dollars be spent on creating and implementing a specialty license plate. Even with our difficult economic climate, the Police Memorial Trust Fund was able to raise all $23,700 in DMV administrative fees and plate manufacturing costs in less than six weeks. These dollars were raised through the generous donations of law enforcement and fire personnel and private citizens. An additional campaign was run through a Facebook account with over 8,000 members.

The idea for the Fallen Public Safety Officer license plate began shortly after the horrific events in Woodburn in December 2008, when a bomb inside a bank killed Woodburn Police Captain Tom Tennant and Oregon State Police Senior Trooper William Hakim. Mary Nunnenkamp, retired from the Washington County Sheriff's Office, began working with Oregon State Representative Matt Wingard to develop legislation to create the license plate. Even in a crowded legislative session and with thirteen other license plates vying for legislative approval, the license plate passed both chambers and was signed into law in June 2009.

The national memorial for fallen firefighters takes place in Emmitsburg, Maryland and the national memorial for fallen law enforcement officers occurs in Washington, D.C.

There are more than 35,000 law enforcement, corrections, parole and probation, fire, and telecommunications personal working in the state of Oregon.

For more information on the license plate please contact DMV.

# # #


Attached Media Files: License Plate Image

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) will graduate its 245th Basic Corrections Class on Friday, August 27, 2010 at 1100 am in the Hall of Heroes at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem. Sheriff Dennis Dotson of the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office will be the guest speaker.

This is the third class which has been delivered by the Academy which is specifically designed by, and for, county and city corrections officers. The class identifier is Basic Corrections Local (BCL) #3. As of July 1, 2009 basic training for newly hired state corrections officers is now provided by the Oregon Department of Corrections at their facilities around the state under the oversight of DPSST.

This Basic Corrections Class is five-weeks in length and includes dozens of training areas including criminal law, survival skills, firearms, transport and security, inmate rights, ethics, cultural diversity, problem solving, and many other subjects.

Corrections Officers in BCL#3:

Bell, Torrey - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Bier, James - Benton County Sheriff's Office
Blendell, Aaron - Josephine County Sheriff's Office
Bradley, Mark - Lane County Sheriff's Office
Druery, Jerry - Yamhill County Sheriff's Office
Foster, Donna - Deschutes County Sheriff's Office
Gilkison, Erin - Jackson County Sheriff's Office
Herreid, Adam - Washington County Comm Corrections
Jones, Grant - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Klecker, Benjamin - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
McVay, Gavin - Curry County Sheriff's Office
Meagher, Michael - Clackamas County Sheriff's Office
Moore, Matthew - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Nichols, Joseph - Josephine County Sheriff's Office
Pizzola, Matthew - Coos County Sheriff's Office
Rascon, Jarod - Marion County Sheriff's Office
Reed, Jacob - Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Ross, Chase - Tillamook County Sheriff's Office
Sellers, Tawnya - Jackson County Sheriff's Office
Shaw, Lynnette - Clatsop County Sheriff's Office
Shuart, Mark - Jackson County Sheriff's Office
Smyth, Callie - Lane County Sheriff's Office
Woo, Geri - Warm Springs Police Department
Wright, Craig - Lane County Sheriff's Office

## Background Information on the DPSST ##

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST)operates the Oregon Public Safety Academy which spans more than 212 acres in Salem. Eriks Gabliks serves as the Director, and Sheriff Andy Bentz of Malhuer County serves as the Chair of the Board. The department implements minimum standards established by the Board for training and certification of city, county and state law enforcement officers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, fire service personnel, telecommunicators, emergency medical dispatchers and private security providers. DPSST provides training to more than 20,000 students each year throughout Oregon and at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem: certifies qualified officers at various levels from basic through executive; certifies qualified instructors; and reviews and accredits training programs throughout the state based on standards established by the Board.

Basic Telecommunications #73 Graduation

The Oregon Public Safety Academy will graduate its 73rd Basic Telecommunication Class on Friday, August 27, 2010. The graduation will begin at 1 PM and will held at the Academy in Salem. The class consists of public safety communications professionals from 9-1-1/emergency communications centers statewide. Captain Jonathan Sassaman of the Corvallis Police Department will be the guest speaker.

The two-week course includes emergency call handling techniques, stress management, civil liability, ethics, criminal law, overview of fire-rescue and law enforcement operations, and a number of other topics. Upon completion of the course, students will return to their employing agency to continue their training for a number of weeks with a field training officer.

The 9-1-1 training program began in 1993 when the Oregon Legislative Assembly enacted legislation which requires that individuals who receive emergency calls for assistance from the public meet professional standards for training and certification.


All family and friends of students, supervisors, department heads and city and county officials are welcome to attend.

Any questions please call Carolyn Kendrick at DPSST (503) 378-2358 or e-mail her at carolyn.kendrick@state.or.us.

Members of Basic Telecommunications Class #73:

Adams, Alan - Oregon State Police
Buckwald, Tyler - Deschutes County 9-1-1
Carr, Tracy - Umatilla Tribal Police Department
Cole, Clint - Coos County Sheriff's Office
Combs, Elisabeth - Curry County Sheriff's Office
Dalton, Trisha - Oregon State Police
Durham, Sherry - Josephine County Sheriff's Office
Elder, Kristin - Josephine County Sheriff's Office
Franzke, Arthur - Deschutes County 9-1-1
Hulse, Beth - Wallowa County Sheriff's Office
Lancaster, Allison - Oregon State University DPS
Lyon, Kathryn - Sweet Home Police Department
Martin, Lance - Linn County Sheriff's Office
McKinney, Holli - Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fisheries
Nicholson, Jacob - Central Lane Communications Center
Pendleton, Marcia - Central Lane Communications Center
Ruiz, Amy - Corvallis Police Department
Scott, Ashley - Tillamook County 911
Smyth, Brandy - Springfield Police Department
Wasco, Christopher - Corvallis Police Department

## Background Information on the DPSST ##

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST)is lead by Director Eriks Gabliks and Sheriff Andy Bentz of Malhuer County serves as the Chair of the Board. The department implements minimum standards established by the Board for training and certification of city, county and state law enforcement officers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, fire service personnel, telecommunicators, emergency medical dispatchers and private security providers. DPSST provides training to more than 20,000 students each year throughout Oregon and at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem: certifies qualified officers at various levels from basic through executive; certifies qualified instructors; and reviews and accredits training programs throughout the state based on standards established by the Board.

The Polygraph Licensing Advisory Committee will hold a Regular Meeting and Executive Session (ORS 192.640(2)) at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 26, 2010 at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem, Oregon. The Executive Session is being held pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(f) to consider information and records that are exempt by law from public inspection.

Please check in with reception at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training in Salem, Oregon. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made before the meeting by contacting: Rebecca Hannon at rebecca.hannon@state.or.us

Agenda

1. Finalize update of polygraph general exam questions

2. Discuss complaint investigations involving polygraph examiners:
* Tony Cobb
* Joseph Garcia
* Jerry Stark

If you have questions or need additional information please contact Rebecca Hannon at (503) 378-2328.

SALEM -- The Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA) has announced their ORVETS home loan program is currently offering loan interest rates approaching historical lows.

Qualified veterans may now get a fixed rate mortgage for as low as 4.00 percent with a 1.375 percent loan origination fee and a 0.125 percent discount charge, or a 4.125 percent fixed rate with a 1.375 percent loan origination fee with a 0.375 percent credit to the borrower.

The ORVET home loan program is a state of Oregon veteran benefit and is separate from the federal VA home loan guaranty program. Even if a veteran has purchased a home using the federal VA program, they may still be eligible for an ORVET home loan.

"Our agency's new reduced rates may allow some veterans to take advantage of a great opportunity for home ownership," said Jim Willis, Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs. "Oregon veterans always deserve the very best we can offer them. They have served our country with distinction."

One requirement of the ORVET program is that honorably discharged veterans must apply before they reach the 30-year anniversary of their military discharge date.

The current maximum loan amount for veterans using the ORVETS home loan program is $417,000. Federal rules prohibit ODVA from refinancing most existing mortgages.

For more ORVET home loan information, contact a local mortgage lender or ODVA at 1-888-673-8387 or 503-373-2051, or visit the website: http://www.oregon.gov/ODVA/HOMELOANS/.
###

SALEM -- After losing his son to the Iraq war, George Lutz wanted to do something that would honor and remember not only his son, but also all of America's fallen warriors. Lutz created the Honor and Remember Flag and has been traveling the nation encouraging states to officially adopt the flag.

Lutz will be in Salem on Tue., Aug. 24, to present Oregon's Honor and Remember Flag to State Sen. Martha Schrader at the Afghan-Iraq Freedom Memorial on the grounds of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs, 700 Summer St. N.E., at 10 a.m. Schrader is the Chair of the Senate Interim Committee on Veterans Affairs.

Lutz will also present flags to the widows of two veterans.

According to Lutz, in America's 234-year history there has never been an official national symbol that recognizes in gratitude and respect the ultimate sacrifice made by members of the United States military in service to their country.

"My heart aches for each family as I am able to touch lives in this most special and unique way. I do not think that the general public quite understands the enormity of what this flag and its symbolism means to so many," he said.

"It is only when one experiences the event and speaks to the families that the importance and significance unfolds."

For information visit Lutz' website: http://www.honorandremember.org/index.php/
###

SALEM -- After losing his son to the Iraq war, George Lutz wanted to do something that would honor and remember not only his son, but also all of America's fallen warriors. Lutz created the Honor and Remember Flag and has been traveling the nation encouraging states to officially adopt the flag.

Lutz will be in Salem on August 24 to present Oregon's Honor and Remember Flag at the Afghan-Iraq Freedom Memorial on the grounds of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs, 700 Summer St. N.E., at 10 a.m.

Lutz said in America's 234-year history there has never been an official national symbol that recognizes in gratitude and respect the ultimate sacrifice made by members of the United States military in service to our nation.

"My heart aches for each family as I am able to touch lives in this most special and unique way. I do not think that the general public quite understands the enormity of what this flag and its symbolism means to so many," he said.

"It is only when one experiences the event and speaks to the families that the importance and significance unfolds."

For information visit Lutz' website: http://www.honorandremember.org/index.php/
###


Attached Media Files: Honor and Remember Flag , Honor and Remember Flag

Salem - The Oregon Employment Department and the National Agricultural Statistics Service are conducting a joint survey of employment in Oregon's agriculture sector. The results of the survey will provide the first comprehensive picture of employment in agriculture compiled by the Oregon Employment Department in more than ten years. The information collected in this survey will provide three significant benefits to Oregon:

1. Oregon's agricultural businesses will find it easier to hire workers with the skills they need.
2. Oregon's training providers will be better suited to develop programs of training specifically geared toward meeting the needs of agricultural employers.
3. The Oregon Employment Department will be able to more accurately estimate current and future employment in Oregon's agriculture sector; information that is valuable to a wide range of customers.

The survey is designed to count the total number of jobs employed in the sector and identify which occupation each individual works in. The survey will also identify skills that agricultural employers have difficulty finding when hiring workers.

The survey will ask employers to identify which, if any, of the jobs at their establishments are green jobs. Employers will be asked to provide information about the types of licenses and certificates they value, what tools and technologies are utilized at their establishment, and what types of sustainable job activities their employees engage in. Finally, employers that indicate they do have green jobs will be asked to identify how the skills required for those green jobs differ from other jobs at their establishment.

Survey forms will be mailed to employers in the farming, ranching, forestry, and fishing industries. The survey period will begin during the week of August 16, 2010 when survey forms are mailed to respondents and will end within three months. The results of the survey will be published online at www.QualityInfo.org/Green no later than February 2011.

The survey is one of the requirements of a U.S. Department of Labor grant awarded to the Oregon Employment Department in December 2009. Funds for this grant come from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Oregon's Employment Situation: July 2010

Oregon's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 10.6 percent in July, essentially unchanged from 10.5 percent in June. The rate has been between 10.5 and 10.7 percent for the most recent nine months. Oregon's unemployment rate was 11.4 percent in July 2009.

The U.S. seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 9.5 percent in both June and July.

In July, Oregon's seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment dropped by 3,000, following a gain of 1,800 (as revised) in June.

Industry Payroll Employment (Establishment Survey Data)
In July, three of the major industries had large seasonally adjusted job declines: government ( 5,200 jobs), educational and health services (-2,600), and financial activities (-900). These losses were partially offset by notable gains in several industries: construction (+3,500 jobs), professional and business services (+700), and manufacturing (+500).

There was a substantial upward revision to the June payroll employment numbers. The originally reported seasonally adjusted totals showed a drop of 3,600 between May and June. Revised numbers show a gain of 1,800 jobs. The upward revisions were concentrated in government and professional and business services.

Government shed 32,900 jobs in July at a time of year when a loss of 27,700 is expected due to seasonality. The ending of work for 1,839 intermittent Census workers reduced both federal government and total government for July, subtracting from the 3,792 individuals who were working for the Census in June.

Local government dropped by 25,500 jobs in July as local schools employed fewer workers during summer school break. Local education employment was 83,000 in July, which was 4,100 below its year-ago level.

Educational and health services cut 5,200 jobs in July, when a loss of only 2,600 is the normal seasonal pattern. This sector has experienced an unusual period of job losses since the start of the year, compared with relatively steady growth over the prior 20 years. In the first seven months of the year, educational and health services has shed 3,500 jobs on a seasonally adjusted basis.

In July, the component industry showing the biggest job loss for the month was social assistance, which plunged by 2,600 jobs to a total of 27,600. Much of the drop here was due to summer breaks in child day care services.

Financial activities was flat at a time of year when a gain of 900 jobs is expected due to seasonal factors. This major industry continues to gradually decline over the past 12 months, with all of its published components below their July 2009 levels.

Construction showed a strong gain in July, adding 5,200 jobs, when a gain of only 1,700 is the normal seasonal movement during this summer month. Gains were widespread with all published components adding jobs over the month.

Seasonally adjusted construction employment, at 69,100 in July, is now well above its low point of 64,000 in February and has added jobs in each of the past five months. Despite the recent growth in construction activity, the industry is still below its year-ago figure of 73,400 jobs.

Professional and business services added 1,900 jobs, when a gain of 1,200 is the normal seasonal pattern. Services to buildings and dwellings added 500 over the month; it took a beating during the economic downturn, but seems to be clawing back with over-the-year job losses narrowing to 700 in July.

Employment services was revised sharply higher for its June reading. The latest estimates peg June jobs at 28,600 and July at 29,700, putting July 400 above the year-ago level. The recent, tentative rebound in employment services is watched closely as a leading indicator of future overall employment patterns.

Unemployment (Household Survey Data)
In July, Oregon's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained essentially unchanged at 10.6 percent compared with 10.5 percent in June.

Oregon's civilian labor force was close to 1,984,000 in both July 2009 and July 2010. During that 12-month period, the number of unemployed has dropped by 11,361, while the number of employed grew by 10,789, thus keeping the number of individuals in the labor force nearly unchanged.

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the July county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Tuesday, August 24th and the statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for August on September 14th.

— end —

For the complete version of the news release, including tables and graphs, visit: www.QualityInfo.org/pressrelease.

If you need this release in the Spanish language, please contact Loretta Gallegos at 503-947-1794.

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

Equal Opportunity program — auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

For Immediate Release

September 2, 2010

Contact: Mariana N. Crawford, 503-986-0968 or Aria Seligmann, 503-986-0983

Oregon Tax Credit Exchange Program Preserves Nearly 300 Units of Affordable Housing

Salem--Oregon Housing and Community Services, the state's housing finance agency, has successfully contributed to preserving more than 270 affordable housing units under the Tax Credit Exchange Program (TCEP).

Funds were used to rehabilitate affordable housing developments, which included the preservation of 200 units of project-based rental assistance. Research shows that preserving affordable housing is much less expensive than building new projects, and families are more secure when they are stable.

"The TCEP funding has helped some of Oregon's most vulnerable populations, from children to seniors on fixed incomes, who would have otherwise been displaced from their communities where they've lived all their lives," said OHCS Tax Credit Programs Manager Mariana Crawford.

TCEP, along with the Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP), were implemented through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and were designed to be used as cash gap fillers on Low Income Housing Tax Credit projects affected by disruptions in the financial market at the end of 2008. TCAP dollars are awarded through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and TCEP dollars are awarded through U.S. Treasury.

By the time the Oregon program fully draws to a close, it will have served 272 households, retaining or creating more than 300 new jobs and assisting seven different rural communities in the state.

"We are pleased to have had access to a program that in Oregon has been well-designed and efficient," said OHCS Director Victor Merced. "It is our intention to use federal assistance wisely and effectively, and to speedily aid those Oregonians who can be supported through such funds."

Allotted funds:
Seacrest, a 20-unit project in Bandon: $1,655,486
Cedar Grove Apartments, a 42-unit project in North Bend: $1,989,157
Linnhaven and Stonebrook, a 51-unit project in Sweet Home: $3,074,985
Crest Butte Apartments, a 52-unit project in Bend: $3,825,731
Sandhill Villa, a 32-unit project in Seaside: $2,502,406
Hewitt Place, a 44-unit project in Troutdale: $2,734,664
Parkside Village, a 36-unit project in Roseburg: $4,760,164


Attached Media Files: 2010-09/1810/38018/09-02-10-NewsRelease.pdf

For Immediate Release

September 2, 2010

Contact: Mariana N. Crawford, 503-986-0968 or Aria Seligmann, 503-986-0983

Oregon Tax Credit Exchange Program Preserves Nearly 300 Units of Affordable Housing

Salem--Oregon Housing and Community Services, the state's housing finance agency, has successfully contributed to preserving more than 270 affordable housing units under the Tax Credit Exchange Program (TCEP).

Some of the affordable housing projects used the funds for project-based rental assistance and others for substantial rehabilitation efforts. Research shows that preserving affordable housing is much less expensive than building new projects, and families are more secure when they are stable.

"The TCEP funding has helped some of Oregon's most vulnerable populations, from children to seniors on fixed incomes, who would have otherwise been displaced from their communities where they've lived all their lives," said OHCS Tax Credit Programs Manager Mariana Crawford.

TCEP, along with the Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP), were implemented through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and were designed to be used as cash gap fillers on Low Income Housing Tax Credit projects affected by disruptions in the financial market at the end of 2008. TCAP dollars are awarded through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and TCEP dollars are awarded through U.S. Treasury.

By the time the Oregon program fully draws to a close, it will have served 272 households, retaining or creating more than 300 new jobs and assisting seven different rural communities in the state.

"We are pleased to have had access to a program that in Oregon has been well-designed and efficient," said OHCS Director Victor Merced. "It is our intention to use federal assistance wisely and effectively, and to speedily aid those Oregonians who can be supported through such funds."

Allotted funds:
Seacrest, a 20-unit project in Bandon: $1,655,486
Cedar Grove Apartments, a 42-unit project in North Bend: $1,989,157
Linnhaven and Stonebrook, a 51-unit project in Sweet Home: $3,074,985
Crest Butte Apartments, a 52-unit project in Bend: $3,825,731
Sandhill Villa, a 32-unit project in Seaside: $2,502,406
Hewitt Place, a 44-unit project in Troutdale: $2,734,664
Parkside Village, a 36-unit project in Roseburg: $4,760,164


Attached Media Files: 2010-09/1810/38015/09-02-10-NewsRelease.pdf

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Michael Kaplan, Oregon Homeownership Stabilization Initiative Division Administrator, 503-986-2079, mike.kaplan@state.or.us


Oregon Receives Another Round of Foreclosure Prevention Assistance

(Salem) U.S. Treasury announced on Wednesday that Oregon will receive another $50 million in "Hardest Hit" funds for foreclosure prevention activities. This additional funding will be dedicated to helping unemployed homeowners maintain homeownership with mortgage payment assistance while they seek re-employment.

Seventeen states and the District of Columbia were chosen to receive the new round of funds because their unemployment rates exceeded the national average for the last 12 months. Of the seventeen states, nine, including Oregon, received first or second round Hardest Hit funding.

Because the Oregon Homeownership Stabilization Initiative (OHSI) -- four programs to implement the disbursal of $88 million – has already been approved, the state has a mechanism in place to manage these additional resources.

"There are many homeowners in Oregon who need a little help to keep their homes," said OHSI Administrator Michael Kaplan. "Although we wish our state didn't need this funding, we deeply appreciate U.S. Treasury's continued recognition of our challenges and look forward to helping even more homeowners."

OHSI expects to begin implementing programs by the end of the year. For program details and proposal, see: http://www.oregonhomeownerhelp.org/.

See more details on the U.S. Treasury announcement at http://www.ustreas.gov/press/releases/tg823.htm

Where to go for help
Homeowners who need help immediately should call 1-800-SAFE NET. (1-800-723-3638)

Any person who wants to receive updates about the state's foreclosure prevention activities can sign up for email alerts at http://o.hcs.state.or.us/eNews/signup_enews.html or call 1-800-453-5511.


# # #


Attached Media Files: 2010-08/1810/37435/08-11-10-NewsRelease.pdf

Humbug Mountain State Park's campground, six miles south of Port Orford, will be closed for improvements beginning Sept. 7.

The park's day-use area and trails will remain open during construction, which will keep 90-plus campsites out of service until Feb. 28, 2011. The improvements will include a new restroom-shower building, a new RV dump station and upgraded electrical service (from 30 amp to 50 amp) for the park's 35 electrical hookup sites.

Cape Blanco State Park, nine miles north of Port Orford, offers the nearest south coast camping option with its 53 electrical hookup campsites, all open year round. ###

This year's Oregon state parks exhibit at the Oregon State Fair will expand to an interpreters' stage Sept. 2-4.

Interpreters representing a diverse range of natural and historic-related interests will give 30-minute presentations on the hour between 11 a.m.-4 p.m. each of the three days. The stage, with covered seating space, is between the Natural Resources Area and the historic Poultry Building.

Topics range from Pacific chorus frogs to family heirlooms. State Historic Preservation Office staff will lead off the Sept. 2 presentations with some tips on fixing old windows—"Don't Let your Old Windows be a Pane!" Guest Alisha Hamel of Oregon Heritage Outreach will follow at noon with a look at "Oregon's Role in World War II."

State park rangers, naturalists and interpretive interns will explore the natural resource subjects that include tsunamis, clone wars, salmon trials and "Hollywood" frogs. The interpreters' on-stage schedule:

Sept. 2 (Thursday):

11 a.m.– "Don't Let your Old Windows be a Pane!"
Noon – "Oregon's Role in World War II"
1 p.m. – "Tales from the Graveyard"
2 p.m. – "Tsunamis Across Time"
3 p.m. – "A Salmon's Tribulations in the Tributaries"
4 p.m. – "Tsunamis Across Time"

Sept. 3 (Friday):

11 a.m.– "Don't Let your Old Windows be a Pane!"
12 p.m.– "Hollywood Frogs with Superhero Skills"
1 p.m. – "Make Grandma's Quilt Last Generations"
2 p.m. – "Wonderful Wetlands"
3 p.m. – "Clone Wars and Other Tide Pool Conflicts"
4 p.m. – "Wonderful Wetlands"

Sept. 4 (Saturday):

11 a.m – "Life in the Habitat Matrix"
12 p.m.– "Hollywood Frogs with Superhero Skills"
1 p.m. – "A Salmon's Tribulations in the Tributaries"
2 p.m. – "Antlers, Horns, and Hooves"
3 p.m. – "Clone Wars and Other Tide Pool Conflicts"
4 p.m. – "Antlers, Horns, and Hooves"

Oregon has a new water trail with signs and a guide mapping the lower 38 miles of the Sandy River for recreational paddling.

The Sandy River Water Trail, the state's eighth designated recreational water route, has been introduced on the web and officially traced in a 12-page, color guidebook. The printed version is available by calling Oregon's state park information center (1-800-551-6949). Web visitors can see the guide at www.sandywatertrail.org.

A water trail is a stretch of river mapped as a recreation route for canoeists and kayakers. Signs along a designated river segment identify public lands that paddlers can use as put-in and take-out points. Guides include maps showing these access and departure locations along with information about the times and distances separating them.

Cooperatively produced by the City of Sandy, the Bureau of Land Management and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD), the Sandy River guide's maps trace the waterway from the Columbia River to the confluence of the Sandy and Salmon rivers near Brightwood. Amenity and access information, and descriptions of seven public parks along the route, accompany the maps.

Local officials expect the river's new water trail guide to help reduce trespassing on private property and promote boating safety. The guide also suggests six one-day float excursions with information about the skill levels (beginner, intermediate and advanced) needed to safely experience each trip.

A list of Oregon's water trails, including the new Sandy River trail, is posted on OPRD's website: www.oregon.gov/OPRD/PARKS/BIKE/other_recreation.shtml. ###

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will present the final draft of a Connection Strategy to fill gaps in the Oregon Coast Trail (OCT) at public meetings Aug. 24 in Lincoln City and Aug. 25 in North Bend.

The meetings will take place from 6-8 p.m. in the Lincoln City Community Center's Craft Room, 2150 N.E. Oar Place, and at the North Bend Public Library, 1800 Sherman Ave.

Now online at http://egov.oregon.gov/OPRD/PLANS/index.shtml the Connection Strategy gives short-term and long-term solutions for closing 33 identified gaps in the 382-mile-long trail. A gap is defined as a distance along the designated route that requires hikers to walk along highways or roads as opposed to strolling through forests or on beaches. "Filling the gaps means getting OCT hikers off the shoulders of roads, especially Highway 101, and onto what you visualize as a true trail," said OPRD's State Recreation Trails Coordinator Rocky Houston.

The final draft of the OCT connection plan was prepared based on a previous National Coast Trails Association trail assessment and a year-long series of meetings attended by land managers and trail advocate groups.

Written comments on the draft plan also may be sent, by Sept. 10, to Houston at rocky.houston@state.or.us, or to State Recreation Trails Coordinator, 725 Summer St. NE, Salem OR 97301. ###

September 7, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


The Oregon State Library Board of Trustees will meet by phone on Monday, September 13, 2010. Sue Burkholder of Eugene will chair the meeting, which will begin at 4:00 p.m.

In their business meeting, the Board will deliberate on recommendations from the staff about a plan to reduce the Library's 2009-11 budget. The plan is in response to the latest across the board reduction ordered by Governor Kulongoski because of forecasted reductions in state revenue.

Members of the public who wish to attend the meeting may come to Room 202 of the State Library where a conference phone will be provided.

Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested prior to 48 hours before the meeting; notice prior to 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in alternate formats prior to 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to April Baker at 503/378-2464.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Executive Committee of the Oregon State Library Board of Trustees will meet by phone on
Wednesday, September 8, 2010. Sue Burkholder of Eugene will chair the meeting, which will begin at 4:00 p. m.

Members of the public who wish to attend the meeting may come to Room 205 of the State Library where a conference phone will be provided.

Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested prior to 48 hours before the meeting; notice prior to 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in alternate formats prior to 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to April Baker at 503-378-2464.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Advisory Council will meet on September 10, 2010 at the Oregon State Library in Room 102 at 9:00 am. The Council will consider applications submitted for LSTA FFY 2011 grants, and develop recommendations to the State Library Board of Trustees on the funding of projects

The LSTA Advisory Council has the primary responsibility for advising the State Library Board on the use of Federal funds appropriated under the Library Services and Technology Act. The Council is comprised of 13 members representing different types of libraries, and citizens representing various library user groups. Ann Evensen is the Council Chair. Open forum time is 1:00 pm, when any individual may address the LSTA Advisory Council.

For more information or call in information, contact MaryKay Dahlgreen, Library Development Program Manager, (503) 378-5012 or Ann Reed, Federal Programs Coordinator, (503) 378-5027. Sign language interpretation will be provided if requested 48 hours before the meeting. Notice prior to 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Alternate format handouts of meeting materials may also be requested prior to 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to Mary Mayberry at (503)378-2525.

LSTA Advisory Council
September 10, 2010
9:00 – 4:00
Oregon State Library, Meeting Room 102
250 Winter St., Salem, OR
Ann Evensen, Chair

AGENDA
9:00 a.m.* Welcome and introductions

9:10 Review proceedings of the last meetings – May 20, May 21, and July 21, 2010

9:20 Staff reports:
1. Status of use of FFY09 – MaryKay Dahlgreen
2. FFY 2010 financial overview and draft budget plan for FFY 2011 – MaryKay Dahlgreen

9:50 Election of officers for coming year - Chair, Vice-Chair

10:00 Proposed bylaw changes – Ann Evensen, Buzzy Nielsen, May Garland

10:40 Procedures review and Discussion of LSTA grant applications

10:45 Break

11:45 Working lunch

1:00 p.m. Open forum
(Any individual may address the LSTA Advisory Council at this time. Speakers are requested to furnish 15 typewritten copies of their text to the Council Chair.)

1:30 Break

2:00 Discussion of statewide projects

2:10 Consideration of grant guidelines for FFY 2012 / Discussion on determining funding ratios and priorities for FFY 2012(e.g. statewide vs. individual project funding)

2:30 Presentation of ranked grant applications
Decision-making about grant applications and LSTA program for FFY 2011

2:50 Presentation to the State Library Board; plans for the year's meetings of the Council in Salem - May and Sept.2011

3:15 Recognition of members whose terms expire

3:25 Suggest potential new Council members

3:30 Adjourn
*all times except public forum are approximate

Salem — In an effort to reach more Oregonians with the news about state government's next unpaid furlough day — Friday, September 17 — media outlets can now access public service announcements on the state website.

Radio stations can download mp3 files in English or Spanish, or print a script for announcers and immediately begin to use the spots.

The announcements serve as a reminder that most state offices will close on 10 dates during the current two-year budget period. Each day of closure will save the state approximately $2 million in personnel costs.

Visit the following website to listen to or download the mp3 files:
www.oregon.gov/furlough_closures.shtml.

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Oregon Licensing Board disciplines five mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists

Salem—The Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists has disciplined five counselors and family therapists for a range of infractions that include inappropriate relationships with clients and misrepresenting themselves as licensed therapists, the Board announced Friday.

Though Oregon law does not prevent them from practicing without a license, the discipline prohibits the five practitioners from calling themselves "licensed professional counselors" or "licensed marriage and family therapists," said Board Chair Ryan Melton.

Some counselors and therapists may practice without a license under Oregon law, Melton explained. Licensed counselors and therapists, however, must meet stringent requirements for education, experience, and competency.

"I encourage consumers to ask counselors or potential counselors about their education, experience and licensing requirements," Melton said. "The vast majority of counselors and therapists in Oregon are honest, caring people, but if you have questions or suspect your counselor of inappropriate or unethical behavior, please contact the Board."

The Board took disciplinary against the following licensees:

• David Bird of Corvallis has surrendered his license as a marriage and family therapist, and must pay $1,465 for serious misconduct. The Board found that Bird, while counseling a couple, developed an intimate relationship with the wife and disclosed confidential information.

• Lyle Bourcy of Ontario has lost his license as a professional counselor. He must pay $16,766 to reimburse the Oregon Board for the cost of his disciplinary process. The Board denied renewal of his license because of action against him by the Idaho State Board of Professional Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists for serious misconduct that included developing inappropriate relationships with a client and the mother of that client.

• Brett Prunty of Bend must pay $2,587 in civil penalties and disciplinary costs. The Board found that he falsely represented himself as a licensed professional counselor on Internet websites.

• Linda Simpson of Portland has surrendered her license as a professional counselor and has paid $918 of disciplinary costs after the Board found that she engaged in a personal relationship with her client.

• Judith Vergamini of Eugene has surrendered her licenses as a marriage and family therapist and as a professional counselor. The Board found that she failed to act in accordance with the highest standards of integrity and competence. She has paid $1,000 toward her disciplinary process costs.

"The primary purpose of Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists is to protect consumers of services provided by those licensed by the Board," Melton said. Information about licensed counselors and marriage and family therapists, including discipline, is available on the Board's website at: http://www.orgon.gov/oblpct

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Salem—State Economist Tom Potiowsky told legislators today that the current economic recovery is one of the "slowest on record," and projected a decrease of $377.5 million in state revenues since the June 2010 forecast.

In his presentation of the September economic and revenue forecast to the legislature's revenue committees, Potiowsky said the overall forecast for the 2009-11 biennium is now $1.3 billion below the forecast issued at the close of the last legislative session. "The prolonged plunge in personal income taxes more than accounts for the decrease associated with this forecast," Potiowsky told legislators.

Last June's forecast triggered a transfer of money from the state's Rainy Day Fund, which brings the total available resources to $12.5 billion. Projected lottery earnings will reach $1.1 billion, an increase of $4.6 million from the previous forecast, Potiowsky said in his report. Lottery revenues have generally stabilized with growth returning after nearly 18 months of decreases.

The unemployment rate for Oregon sits at 10.6 percent for July, essentially unchanged for the past nine months. Potiowsky pointed out that the unemployment rate tends to be one of the last measurements to improve as the economy enters recovery.

Manufacturing jobs were flat, while increases occurred in wood product jobs and other durable goods. Losses occurred in other sectors, however. The service sector showed disappointing job losses in professional and business services, health services, financial activities and retail trade. Some gains did occur in other service-sector jobs.

"Depending on the outcome of further spending packages from the US Congress, we may see further large job cuts at the state and local government levels," Potiowsky reported. "The expected slowdown in US economic growth due to slowing stimulus spending and winding down of manufacturing inventory cycle is similarly impacting the Oregon economy. Given the rather lackluster employment picture, saying the recession is over gives little solace to those still looking for work."

Note: The full text of the September Economic and Revenue Forecast is available at:


http://www.oregon.gov/DAS/OEA/index.shtml


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Salem, Oregon—State Economist Tom Potiowsky will issue the September Economic and Revenue Forecast on Thursday, August 26, 2010, in a presentation to the legislature's revenue committees. To access Legislative Media live video stream, see: http://www.leg.state.or.us/listn/


What: September Economic and Revenue Forecast. Tom Potiowsky and his staff will brief members of the legislative revenue committees and will answer their questions. He will also make himself available to reporters in the corridor after his presentation.

When: Thursday, August 26, 2010, at 8:30 a.m.

Where: Hearing Room A, Oregon State Capitol, in Salem, Oregon

Who: State Economist Tom Potiowsky and members of the legislature

State workers take unpaid day-off to save taxpayers about $2 million

Salem — Because of budget reductions for state agencies, most state offices will close on Friday, August 20, and 26,500 state employees will take mandatory unpaid furloughs on that day, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) announced Wednesday.

The closure on August 20 is the sixth of 10 closure dates the state has scheduled over the current two-year budget period. Each day of closure will save an estimated $2 million in personnel costs, said DAS Director Scott Harra. While the closures affect both management and non-management employees, many state workers will take up to four additional days of unpaid furlough on a floating basis over the remainder of the biennium.

"We apologize for any inconvenience these closures might cause to the public, and we look forward to restoration of a full work schedule for all state agencies when the economy returns to its normal strength," said DAS Director Scott Harra.

State agencies will do everything possible to minimize any hardship the closures might cause, Harra added. Customers can still do business with DMV and some other state agencies online, even though the offices are closed. Harra encouraged the public to check agencies' websites to find out whether online transactions are possible on the closure day.

Some workers will stay on the job
Harra emphasized that certain state employees who provide essential services in public safety will remain on the job as usual—State Police officers, corrections officers and certain state hospital workers, for example.

Unions, state negotiated which days to close
Last summer, the state's management team and the unions that represent state workers negotiated an agreement that specifies which days to designate as closure days. The negotiators took into account the need to minimize public inconvenience while keeping critical operations open and functioning.

State websites offer information on closures
The Oregon Department of Administrative Services has published information about Friday's closure and furloughs on the state's website (www.Oregon.gov), along with a schedule of the remaining closure days. Members of the public can also find out which state offices will remain open on the closure days. Harra urged the public to check individual agencies' websites for additional information.

The state has scheduled the following dates as closure days with mandatory unpaid furloughs (all are Fridays):

October 16, 2009
November 27, 2009
March 19, 2010
April 16, 2010
June 18, 2010
August 20, 2010
September 17, 2010
November 26, 2010
March 18, 2011
May 20, 2011

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Salem—The state of Oregon has agreed to sell the site formerly used by the Oregon School for the Blind to Salem Hospital, the state Facilities Division announced on Tuesday.

Following a period of "due diligence," the hospital will pay the state $6 million for the 8.37-acre site, which is located at 700 Church Street in Salem.

State officials are pleased with the sale agreement. "We have worked hard to achieve the legislature's goal of finding the best use for this property and maximizing revenues that will benefit blind and deaf students," said Robin Harpster, administrator of the Oregon Facilities Division. "This solution does both. The agreement reflects the state's commitment to ensuring that blind and deaf students receive the support they need to receive a first-rate education."

In 2009, the Legislature enacted HB 2834, which called for closing the Oregon School for the Blind. The bill directed the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) to work with the Oregon Department of Education to shut the school down and sell the property. A budget note required DAS to report to the Legislature in February 2010 and present a plan for disposition of the property. The sales agreement with Salem Hospital is the final outcome of that plan.

Gov. Ted Kulongoski signed a bill in March that divides net proceeds from the sale equally between a fund for the blind and the School for the Deaf. Half the money will go into Blind and Visually Impaired Fund, created in 2009, to provide resources and education services to visually impaired students across the state. The other half will go to support improvements, repairs and maintenance at the Oregon School for the Deaf, also in Salem.

Salem Hospital has a 60-day period of due diligence to investigate the property fully, which includes detailed engineering, survey, title, cost and other considerations to confirm that the property meets the hospital's needs. If the hospital finds the property suitable, the sale could become final as early as mid-October.

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Travel Oregon Offers Chance to Win an Ultimate Foodie Experience


SALEM, Ore. – August 23, 2010 – Play. Catch. Eat. Travel Oregon invites culinary explorers to dig, gather and forage on an Oregon epicurean excursion across the state with ten of the state's top chefs as guides.

The Oregon Bounty Wanderfeast will send the chefs throughout the state -- video crew in tow --to experience one of the foodie passions they enjoy outside of the kitchen. The chefs' adventures will include fly fishing for steelhead on the Deschutes River, foraging the Oregon Trail for botanical ingredients, and milking a cow to make artisan cheese, among others. Short videos of their adventures will serve as the introduction to Travel Oregon's culinary travel planning website, which includes all of the "how-to" and "where-to" information needed to plan a foodie getaway to Oregon.

Win an Oregon Bounty Wanderfeast Contest
One lucky "epi-tourian" will win an exclusive four-day, three-night Oregon Bounty Wanderfeast. The winner will indulge in a five-course chef's table dinner at Le Pigeon Restaurant in Portland plus two of these options for their own Oregon Wanderfeast: head out on a pier and catch Dungeness crab, be an artisan cheese maker for a day, discover the wineries of the Columbia Gorge, create spring ales with a craft brewer, learn the art of mixology with artisan spirits or stalk a steelhead on a wild and scenic river.

To enter the Oregon Bounty Wanderfeast Contest, create an itinerary of your choosing from a variety of Oregon culinary destinations and submit in 25 words or less what makes Oregon the perfect place for your Wanderfeast. A winner, randomly selected from all submittals on Dec. 3, 2010, will have the opportunity to bring three friends or family members to accompany him or her on their culinary adventure, scheduled for April 7 - 10, 2011. The prize includes the chosen itinerary, airfare on Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air and lodging by Best Western. For a complete list of celebration information, contest rules and to enter, visit www.Traveloregon.com/Bounty.

"The intimacy of our culinary scene is one of the incredible, relatively undiscovered aspects of Oregon," said Travel Oregon's Director of Brand Strategy, Holly Macfee. "It's one of the few states where you can eat or drink right alongside the producers that grow, make or cook the ingredients. Fall is one of the best times of year for Oregon foodie travel since many of the products are at their peak."

New Epicurean Travel Planning Website
Want to plan your own culinary retreat? Dishing about Oregon's secret spots, travel tips and favorite recipes designed to celebrate Oregon's bounty, the new www.TravelOregon.com/Bounty is chock full of videos with chefs at their favorite spots, downloadable recipes and chef recommendations, foodie festivals and events along with itineraries and travel packages. Eat like a local and follow along as we highlight a new ingredient each week. The Oregon Bounty recipe collection with selections from each participating Oregon Bounty chef will be available for download at http://budurl.com/Bounty.

About Oregon Bounty
Oregon Bounty is a statewide promotion that celebrates Oregon's culinary abundance and the fall harvest season. From August 23rd through November 30th, Oregon Bounty highlights unique travel experiences, fall events and the state's chefs, winemakers, brewers, farmers and culinary artisans. Oregon Bounty is produced by the Oregon Tourism Commission (dba Travel Oregon), with support from Oregon's regional destination marketing organizations, with the goal of encouraging economic growth and enhancing the quality of life in Oregon through a strengthened economic impact of tourism statewide. Travel Oregon collaborates extensively with local communities, industry associations, government agencies and private business, and is proud to grow the Oregon Bounty promotion as a key campaign in the state's $7.7 billion tourism industry, helping Oregon to be recognized as a not-to-be-missed culinary and travel destination. Visit www.TravelOregon.com/Bounty or call 1-800-547-7842 for more information.


Attached Media Files: Get Wanderfeast recipes at http://budurl.com/Bounty

Many parents teach their children table manners, to respect their elders and obey all traffic laws. Before their son or daughter leaves the nest to attend college, Wells Fargo advises parents to consider adding one more important lesson: safeguarding personal and financial information to avoid fraud.

An identity fraud study by Javelin Strategy & Research in February 2010 revealed it takes people ages 18 to 24 nearly twice as many days to detect fraud compared to other age groups, and thus are fraud victims for longer periods of time.

According to the study results, young people are less likely to monitor their bank accounts regularly and also are the least likely age group to take advantage of monitoring programs offered by financial institutions. They are also more likely to be victimized by people they know.

Living in a communal situation such as a dorm, where other students or strangers might easily access your child's room, also increases the need for vigilance.

Nine Tips for Safeguarding Information
To help prevent fraud, Wells Fargo recommends parents share these nine tips with their children:
1) Forward It! School mailboxes are not always secure. The Better Business Bureau recommends having sensitive mail sent to a permanent address such as a parent's home or a P.O. Box. This can include student loan and financial aid correspondence, which may contain confidential information. Ask if a paperless statement is an option so your child can access account information online instead.
2) Don't Share It! Social media is popular among college students. Remind your child to keep personal information private – not sharing on a social networking site, for example. Personal information a fraudster could use to help gain access to your child's account includes birth date, mother's maiden name and a pet's name.
3) Doubt It! Teach your child to use a healthy dose of skepticism if someone – claiming to be from their bank or other legitimate company – phones or sends an email asking for personal information. And advise them never to click on links sent in unsolicited emails from strangers.
4) Lock It! Tell your child to keep the dorm room locked, even if he or she is expecting company. They should also secure their computer with a password, firewall and anti-virus software so no one else can access their files, and with a cable lock so no one can remove it.
5) Shred It! Give your child a shredder and urge him or her to shred all unwanted credit card offers, insurance or loan applications, bills, credit card receipts and documents that contain their personal information. Thieves steal information from many sources, including the mail and even garbage cans, and can use it to access your child's account.
6) Protect It! Provide your child a safety box. Instruct her or him to keep any credit cards and documents that contain personal information locked up when not in use, such as a passport, Social Security Card and bank statement.
7) Hide It! Tell your child never to leave a wallet or purse in plain sight in a dorm room. The same goes for documents with personal or account information.
8) Ask for It! Have your child ask his or her financial services provider if it offers alerts, which can help detect unauthorized use of a bank account quickly.
9) Register for It! Tell your child to sign up for online banking so he or she can monitor their accounts. Research has shown banking online is the quickest way to detect account fraud. Many financial services providers offer it for free.

"Having a child leave home to attend college is difficult enough for many parents," said Don Pearson, Wells Fargo's Oregon Region president. "Following the above safety measures might alleviate some of your worries. And don't hesitate to visit Wells Fargo with your child to talk to a banker about other preventative measures."

For more fraud prevention tips, visit Wells Fargo's Fraud Information Center at www.wellsfargo.com/.

About Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo & Company is a nationwide, diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.2 trillion in assets. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance through more than 10,000 banking stores, 12,000 ATMs, the Internet (wellsfargo.com and wachovia.com), and other distribution channels across North America and internationally. With more than 278,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in America. Wells Fargo & Company was ranked #19 on Fortune's 2009 rankings of America's largest corporations. Wells Fargo's vision is to satisfy all our customers' financial needs and help them succeed financially.

# # #

August 26, 2010

Wells Fargo & Company has expanded its ExpressSend remittance network in Mexico through an agreement with Houston-based Transnetwork Corporation, adding more than 4,000 payout locations in Mexico for a total of more than 9,000 locations.

Wells Fargo now offers more payout locations than any other U.S. bank-managed remittance service in Mexico.

Soriana and Famsa are the two new retailers added and Banco Santander and Banco del Ahorro Nacional y Servicios Financieros (Bansefi) are the latest bank additions to the Wells Fargo ExpressSend remittance network in Mexico. The network also includes BBVA Bancomer, HSBC Mexico, Banorte and Telecomm Telegrafos.

"We understand our remittance service can be an important lifeline between our customers and their family and friends in Mexico. By expanding our remittance network in Mexico, we are enhancing our customers' beneficiaries experience through a more diverse set of remittance payout channels and expanded hours of operation in the case of the retail locations," said Daniel Ayala, executive vice president and head of Wells Fargo's Global Remittance Services.

"Our goal is to offer a remittance service that is economical, dependable and convenient," Ayala added. "Our new payout agents further enhance our ability to offer just that. The two retailers also add additional convenience with longer hours and weekends."

Customers can send money directly to their beneficiary for one low transfer fee. Customers may also qualify for a discounted fee based on their account relationship with Wells Fargo. Customers can send money by signing on to Wells Fargo Online, by calling 1-800–TO-WELLS or by visiting a Wells Fargo bank, making Wells Fargo the only U.S. commercial bank to offer all three channels for remitting funds.

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a nationwide, diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.2 trillion in assets. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance through more than 10,000 banking stores, 12,000 ATMs, the Internet (wellsfargo.com and wachovia.com), and other distribution channels across North America and internationally. With more than 278,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in America.

# # #

MONMOUTH – The Education Trust ranked Western Oregon University (WOU) first in the nation for the smallest white-Hispanic gap in graduation rates among public colleges and universities. The gap was listed as 5.9 percent in the report released August 9. The report commends WOU's substantial improvement in graduation rates among the Latino population, stating, "this improvement is the result of deliberate, purposeful work by the university. Western Oregon's success in improving graduation rates and eliminating gaps can serve as an inspiration."

Earlier this year, The Education Trust named WOU a top-ten performer in the nation for improvement in graduation rates for underrepresented minority (URM) students and they recognized WOU as a top national university for closing the gap in graduation rates between URM and nonminority students. Graduation rates for URM students at WOU increased 61 percent between 2002 and 2007. The gap between URM and non-URM students has also closed significantly so that all students have same likelihood of graduation from WOU. The university has succeeded in better serving its minority population, while growing the university dramatically, setting all-time enrollment levels. WOU is also one of the most diverse universities in Oregon and has the highest percentage of Latino students in the Oregon University System.

WOU has made it a top priority to reach out to minority populations, particularly Latino students who are the fastest growing ethnic population in Oregon. Over twenty percent of the 2009-10 incoming class of students came from ethnically diverse backgrounds, and that excludes WOU's large international student population. The university's mission is to support all students through graduation. WOU has addressed this mission by increasing staff in key academic and cultural support areas and adding more faculty, even in difficult economic times, so that our class sizes can remain in the low twenties. The university's academic advisers are a critical component to student success and in last two years several have received national honors for Outstanding Academic Advising by the National Academic Advising Association.

Many of these underrepresented minority students are also first-generation students, meaning they are the first in their families to attend college. WOU has carved a niche for itself in supporting first-generation students, with programs such as the Student Enrichment Program (supporting first-gen students through their college career) and the Western Tuition Promise (guaranteeing freshman the same tuition rate for four years). According to David McDonald, Associate Provost, "WOU's national recognition by the Education Trust is an affirmation of the hard work and commitment by an outstanding faculty who truly places the educational needs of their students first. The many innovative and nationally recognized support programs such as Academic Advising, the Writing Center, and the Student Enrichment Program have an incredibly profound and positive impact on all our students."

The university's success in recruiting, retaining and graduating students from diverse backgrounds starts in admission and outreach and continues all the way to graduation. The people of Western Oregon University work hard to make the transition for students as seamless as possible. This is done through a variety of programs such as Preview Days where prospective students and their families tour campus, meet with faculty, learn about academic programs and even available extra-curricular activities. There are also on-site admissions events scheduled each year in which admissions staff visit high schools and review admissions applications and provide students with on-the-spot admissions decisions. WOU hosts Student Orientation Advising and Registration events in the summer for admitted students prior to their official arrival on campus so they can select classes, meet with faculty and take necessary placement tests. WOU even boasts one of the country's longest and most thorough student orientation programs called New Student Week, which last the full week prior to the start of fall term. Students make friends, get acclimated to campus and learn about campus resources during this week.

McDonald added, "Our progress as noted by the Education Trust is a continued effort to improve our university. It is no accident that as the campus has become more diverse our students are becoming more successful. This important national recognition will help us to continue to sharpen our focus even more so that we will continue to improve and serve our students. We have so many exciting new opportunities for students including a new LEED's Platinum level residence hall and a new LEED's Gold level Health and Wellness Center opening next year, I can hardly wait to see how much better our performance will be."

These rankings are comprised of public institutions because, according to The Educational Trust, two-thirds of minority students attend a public institution of higher education. The Education Trust promotes high academic achievement for all students at all levels—pre-kindergarten through college. Our goal is to close the gaps in opportunity and achievement that consign far too many young people—especially those from low-income families or who are black, Latino, or American Indian—to lives on the margins of the American mainstream.

For further information:
Announcement by The Educational Trust: http://www.edtrust.org/dc/publication/big-gaps-small-gaps-hispanic

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 10, 2010

SCHOOL BOARD PLACES BOND MEASURE ON NOVEMBER BALLOT

ELMIRA – At a special board meeting on Monday August 9, 2010, the Fern
Ridge School Board voted unanimously to place a $15,000,000 bond
measure before the community in November. The bond would expand
facilities and make safety and security improvements and, if approved by
voters, would result in no increase to the tax rate property owners currently
pay.

In May the Board received a report from the Facilities Committee on the
needs and considerations that were identified as priorities in regards to the
future of the district's facilities. Information was reviewed from architects,
engineers, and staff on the potential scope of work needed to increase and
improve instructional spaces at the elementary schools, upgrade heating,
ventilation and water systems, make improvements to campus safety and
security, and renovate and expand athletic facilities to address safety
concerns, deferred maintenance and to create more readily available
facilities for community use.

Following the results of a telephone survey indicating voter support for a
$15,000,000 interest free bond measure that would address growth and
instructional needs in the elementary schools, safety and security concerns
and renovations of district athletic facilities, the district applied for and
received approval from the Oregon Department of Education to issue
$15,000,000 of Qualified School Construction Bonds at zero percent interest
that would save the community over $12,000,000 during the thirteen year
repayment period.

Qualified School Construction Bonds are authorized by the federal
government through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA)
of 2009 and are only available until December 31, 2010. If approved by
voters in November, the Fern Ridge School District expects to begin
construction projects next spring.

For more information, please visit the Fern Ridge School District web site at
www.fernridge.k12.or.us/bond or contact the District Office at (541) 935-
2253.

The Coos Bay School District Board of Directors will hold a Regular School Board Meeting on Monday, September 13, 2010, in the Community Room at Milner Crest Education Center, 1255 Hemlock Ave., Coos Bay, Oregon.

The regular Board Meeting will begin at 6:00 PM.

To view the agenda and School Board packet, to go http://cbd9.net/schoolboard/agendas

All Coos Bay School District Board Meetings are subject to the Public Meetings Law (ORS 192.610-192.710). The public is welcome to attend.

Contacts:
Bob De La Vergne, Superintendent, (541) 267-1309
Peggy Ahlgrim, Board Secretary, (541) 267-1318

The Coos Bay School District Board of Directors will hold a Special School Board Meeting on Thursday, September 2, 2010, in the Community Room at Milner Crest Education Center, 1255 Hemlock Ave., Coos Bay, Oregon.

The Special Board Meeting will begin at 12:00 noon.

The purpose of this meeting is to review and vote on a supplemental bussing plan for Blossom Gulch Elementary School.

All Coos Bay School District Board Meetings are subject to the Public Meetings Law (ORS 192.610-192.710). The public is welcome to attend.

Contacts:
Bob De La Vergne, Superintendent, (541) 267-1309
Peggy Ahlgrim, Board Secretary, (541) 267-1318

Superintendent Bob De La Vergne will be holding a town meeting at Blossom Gulch Elementary School, 333 S 10th St., Coos Bay, on Tuesday, August 31st at 5:00 PM to discuss changes in bus routes, particularly around Blossom Gulch Elementary School. Diana Whitmire of First Student will also be at the meeting.

Superintendent De la Vergne will present the law regarding transporting students within a one mile radius of the schools and Diana Whitmire will present the routes as they currently stand.

The public is invited to attend and input will be welcomed.

For more information, please contact Bob De La Vergne at 541-267-1309 or Diane Whitmire at 541-888-9131.

The Coos Bay School District Board of Directors will hold a Special School Board Meeting on Saturday, August 21, 2010, in the Community Room at Milner Crest Education Center, 1255 Hemlock Ave., Coos Bay, Oregon.

The Special Board Meeting will begin at 9:00 AM.

Go to http://cbd9.net/schoolboard/agendas to link to the agenda and school board packet, which is subject to change.

All Coos Bay School District Board Meetings are subject to the Public Meetings Law (ORS 192.610-192.710). The public is welcome to attend.

Contacts:
Bob De La Vergne, Superintendent, (541) 267-1309
Peggy Ahlgrim, Board Secretary, (541) 267-1318

A Special meeting of the North Bend School District #13 Board of Directors will be held Monday, August 23, 2010, 5:00 p.m., at the home of Deb Reid, 66704 Raven Road, North Bend OR.

Agenda

1. CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL

2. SET BOARD GOALS FOR THE UPCOMING YEAR

3. ADJOURN

A Regular meeting of the North Bend School District #13 Board of Directors will be held Monday, August 16, 2010, beginning at 7:00 p.m., in the North Bend School District Conference Room, 1913 Meade Street, North Bend, OR.

Agenda

1. CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL, FLAG PLEDGE

2. AGENDA CHANGES/ APPROVAL OF AGENDA

3. GOOD NEWS BJ Hollensteiner
A. OSAA Class 3A boys and girls basketball tournaments are moving to the Coos Bay area
B. Tentative agreement with NBEA

4. IOWA LIGHTHOUSE PROJECT
A. Assessments: Formative and Summative

5. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
A. Cape Arago Audubon Society (CAAS) restoration work on the Pony Creek property owned by the district. (Eric Clough)
B. Public Comments

6. COMMUNICATIONS
Items not on the agenda such as announcements, invitations and information of interest
A. Board Reports and Communication
i. North Bend School Foundation Anthony Collins
B. OSEA Robin Bridges
C. NBEA Tanya Sinko
D. Business Manager Financial Report Sherri Flora
E. Superintendent BJ Hollensteiner
i. Training (2020)

7. ACTION / CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
A. Board Meeting Minutes
i. July 12
ii. July 27
B. Recommendation for New Hire (Licensed)
i. Hugh Moran, Social Studies Teacher (MS)

8. IOWA PROJECT DISCUSSION

9. NEW BUSINESS DISCUSSION
A. AYP Report

10. NEW BUSINESS ACTION
A. Resolution 11-03 Qualified School Construction Bonds Financing Agreement

11. OLD BUSINESS DISCUSSION
A. Report on North Bay Reroofing Project

12. OLD BUSINESS ACTION

13. BOARD COMMENTS
(Brief comments of items of interest)

14. INFORMATION ONLY
A. Thank you for your donations to the North Bend School District
i. Anonymous donor – school supplies
B. Special Board Meeting Monday, August 23, 2010, at 5:00 p.m., Deb Reid's home, to set Board goals for the upcoming year.
C. Next Regular Board Meeting scheduled for Monday, September 13, 2010, 7:00 p.m., North Bend Council Chambers.

15. ADJOURN

Sudden cardiac death affects nearly 100 students per year
By Joshua Leichman, MD, Salem CardioVascular Associates, PC

Sudden death in young athletes is a tragic event often due to undiagnosed heart disease. Because these events are so unexpected in well trained and physically fit individuals, they tend to become very high profile. When a sudden death occurs on the playing field it often generates the following questions: How could this have happened, could it have been prevented, and what should the community do now?
To answer these questions it's important to understand the frequency of these events, their underlying causes, and how the abnormalities that lead to sudden death are diagnosed.
It is estimated that sudden cardiac death occurs in 1 in 200,000 high school athletes, with over 5 million high school students participating in sports every year. In Dr. Barry Maron's registry of 1.4 million student athletes over 27 years, the athlete sudden death rate was estimated at less than 100 per year.
The most common cause of sudden death in the student athlete is a condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, an abnormal thickening of the heart muscle. This thickening can lead to abnormal pumping of the heart at high heart rates, and to irregular heart rhythms that can cause sudden death. Other causes of sudden death include defects of the heart's arteries, problems with the heart's electrical system known as channelopathies, and other congenital defects of the heart muscle from varying causes.
Screening for the problems that can lead to sudden death involves tests such as electrocardiograms (EKG's) and ultrasounds of the heart. Even if the medical and technical resources were available to provide this level of screening to all of the middle school and high school athletes, the cost would be over 2 billion dollars each year to discover problems that occur in only 1:1000 people. In other words it would cost about $3.4 million to prevent each of the theoretical deaths. While no amount of money should be assigned to protecting a human life, the economic and procedural reality of performing such screening would be unsustainable.
So what is a parent, school, or community to do to help prevent sudden death in student athletes? The simplest and currently the only recommended screening is collecting a focused clinical history from the athlete and performing a specialized physical exam. The American Heart Association endorses a cardiovascular screening process for competitive athletes that focuses on three elements: 1. An individual history of symptoms and physical findings; 2. A family history of premature death and diagnoses of certain cardiac conditions; 3. A cardiac directed physical exam. If high risk factors emerge from this screening, the more thorough testing should be considered prior to allowing the athlete to participate in competition.
Unfortunately, pre-participation screening for young athletes is not an exact science. Some may fall through the cracks while others may be screened out with a false positive test result. Someday we may have tests that are more accurate, less expensive, and easier to administer. But until then, more pre-participation screening should be performed, with accurate reporting, so we can make positive strides in reducing the tragic occurrence of sudden cardiac death in our student athletes.

Dr. Joshua Leichman is a clinical cardiac electrophysiologist with Salem CardioVascular Associates, PC (SCVA). He serves as the Medical Director for Oregon Heartbeat Clinic, a Salem CardioVascular service for people with implanted cardiac devices and arrhythmias. www.SCVAcares.com.


Attached Media Files: Dr. Joshua Leichman , Dr. Joshua Leichman

Salem,OR — ABC's Emmy award winning hit show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition has announced the recipients of the Salem, OR Extreme Makeover: Home Edition build project.

Tuesday afternoon, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition traveled to Salem's Oregon School for the Deaf (OSD). There the design team met the students of the residential school for deaf and hard of hearing students known throughout the state for its curriculum in American Sign Language. The students learned that OSD would be the recipient of a makeover during their back-to-school picnic when they saw an airplane pulling a 5,000 square foot banner overhead, greeting them with the message: "Good Morning, Oregon School for the Deaf!"

Funds from OSD's annual Nightmare Factory, a spine tingling haunted house held for two weeks leading up to and including Halloween night in the basement of the boys' dormitory, go a long way toward generating much-needed income for the 140 year-old financially-strapped school, a place which students consider their second home. The 12,000 square foot basement where the Nightmare Factory is usually held has become frightfully unsafe. The EMHE design team has just one week to make the OSD basement safe again and tricking it out in a scary and spectacular way for the annual Nightmare Factory. The improvements they make will surely help increase OSD's fundraising revenue for years to come. Along with re-doing the Nightmare Factory, a second building project is going on at the same location that will include dorm rooms and a living area.

Rich Duncan Construction is leading the build and is excited the project has finally begun. When asked how he felt going into "day one" of the project, Duncan said, "I am humbled to be a part of something so important in the lives of these kids. This project will have a lasting impact, not only on the current students, but on the lives of future students. My wife Shelly and I are grateful to be able to lead this build. We appreciate the support of the community."

The Starkey Hearing Foundation will sponsor over 100 students and parents on a trip to their facility in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, while Extreme Makeover: Home Edition team leader Ty Pennington, designers Paige Hemmis, Michael Maloney and Johnny Littlefield, along with Duncan's construction team and community volunteers, rebuild the structure.

The location of the build project is 999 Locust Street NE, Salem, OR 97303. Spectator hours are 8am-8pm beginning on Wednesday and will run through the day of reveal. Parking is at the Fairgrounds in the south parking lot. Shuttles will provide transportation from the fairgrounds to the build site. Please do not drive to the build site. Please visit the website for more information and details on spectator hours and details for parking and shuttles.

Any monetary contribution is more than welcome to help cover the costs of the project. To make donations and up to the minute information on the project, visit Rich Duncan Construction's website at www.richduncanconstruction.com.

ABOUT EMHE
The Emmy award winning reality program "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," now entering its 8th season, is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It's executive-produced by Brady Connell and George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America. The show airs Sundays from 8:00-9:00 p.m., ET on ABC.

Salem,OR — ABC's Emmy award winning hit show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition has announced the celebrity design team coming to Salem next week!

The design team, led by Ty Pennington will spend the week designing rooms for a very worthy group of recipients. The instantly-recognizable Pennington has helped transform the lives of hundreds of people, while inspiring millions more as the as the host of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. Pennington won national attention as the charismatic carpenter on the home improvement series, Trading Spaces. Under Ty's leadership, the show has two Emmys and two People's Choice Awards. Ask Ty why he does what he does ad he'll tell you, "It's about the joy of doing things for others. Extreme Makeover is about family, America and about those random acts of kindness that can restore your faith in people."

Paige Hemmis found her way to Extreme Makeover via an audition she did for Monster House in order to win tools so she could remodel more homes. In 2001, Paige founded a real estate company that bought houses, renovated them and created an innovative rent-to-own solution for tenants who couldn't afford the steep down payments. Paige taught herself all aspects of construction, including drywall, cabinetry, electrical and plumbing. Paige considers her role on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition a true blessing and feels extremely fortunate to make her living helping others. "It's amazing that we get the opportunity to travel our country helping families redefine the place they call home. It's an honor to help, and my life will be forever changed by it."

Michael Moloney spent 10 successful years in the fashion business before he turned his design focus to homes in 1990. His fresh design approach has led to working with celebrities such as Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest. He has also worked on design projects for the Walt Disney Company and the NFL. Moloney's television credits include Good Morning America, The View, EXTRA!, Less than Perfect and more. Being part of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition makes Moloney feel extremely fortunate: "This show is truly amazing in that it gives people hope and a new lease on life. I am so grateful to be a part of something so special. My job as a designer is to make each home reflect these families' personalities and lifestyles. It is so rewarding to for me to use my design skills to make dreams come true for them," he says.

Playing many roles over the years, Johnny Littlefield has found his best role yet – himself! Having roles in Law & Order, NCIS and West Wing, Johnny remembers the leaner times, when he honed the skills learned from his dad as a do-it-yourself handyman and carpenter that led to a career hosting shows on the Discovery Channel and CMT. Johnny is thrilled as always to extend himself in humanitarian ways, be it onscreen or off, especially with the hardest working people in show business, his friends, and Ty and the design team.

Rich Duncan Construction has been chosen to lead the build project "We are thrilled that Extreme Makeover: Home Edition has selected the Salem/Keizer area for this project and we are excited to not only make a difference in the lives of people, but to also play a part in inspiring the Salem/Keizer community for a great cause. I'm excited that it is finally here. This community has really stepped up to support the project and we are ready to go!" he said. Ty Pennington, team leader of the show, as well as his design team, will notify the recipients by showing up at the project site on September 6th.

For up to the minute information on the door knock, recipient announcement and more, visit Rich Duncan Construction's website at www.richduncanconstruction.com.

ABOUT EMHE
The Emmy award winning reality program "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," now entering its 8th season, is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It's executive-produced by Brady Connell and George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America. The show airs Sundays from 8:00-9:00 p.m., ET on ABC.

MEDIA ADVISORY
For Immediate Release - Event Date: August 26, 2010 7:30pm

Rich Duncan Construction Hosts
Kick Off Rally for Extreme Makeover Volunteers

WHAT: A kick off rally will be held for all volunteers of the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition build.

WHO: Rich Duncan, owner of Rich Duncan Construction – selected lead for the week-long Extreme build; all designated volunteers, and a special appearance by Milan Vasic, executive producer of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.

WHEN: 6:30 p.m., Thursday, August 26, 2010. A private trades-only volunteer dinner
7:30 p.m. the event is open to all volunteers and the public. The media is invited to attend the dinner if a press pass is requested in advance.

WHERE: West Salem Foursquare Church
3094 Gehlar Rd NW, Salem, OR (on the corner of Doaks Ferry Rd. NW and Gehlar Rd NW)
www.wsfc.org

WHY: The event will rally all volunteers of Salem/Keizer's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition with a goal to inspire and to share information. The Extreme build has had a tremendous response from the Salem/Keizer community and has received more than 1,000 volunteer signups.
In addition to donations, the build is specifically seeking help from the following:
• Interior trim carpenters
• Cabinet installers
• Framers
• Exterior application installers (corrugated metal and tongue and groove wood)
• Blind installers
• Audio Visual company
• Custom closet organizers (melamine product)

To donate toward the Build Fund, to volunteer or to help with the items listed above, please visit www.richduncan-emhe.com

Build is scheduled to begin the week of September 6th – once the project begins, please go to www.richduncan-emhe.com for updates on the project.

NOTE TO MEDIA: Individual interviews with Rich Duncan Construction and special guests can be scheduled before and after the kick off rally. Please contact Shaney Starr or Mary Louise VanNatta to schedule interview times. Additionally, all video crews and photographers are welcome.

ABC's Emmy award winning hit show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition has selected a worthy group of people to feature on its show that helps change people's lives and inspire remarkable community support.

While Rich Duncan Construction is leading the build, the project will rely on volunteers and Salem/Keizer is invited to join this project. Rich Duncan Construction will host a kick off on Thursday, August 26th beginning at 7:30pm at West Salem Foursquare Church, 3094 Gehlar Rd. NW, to recognize the volunteer effort needed to accomplish this amazing feat for such a deserving group of people. While the exact details of the build won't be released until after the door knock on or around September 6th, volunteers will now have over a week to sign up and get involved in this community event. Attendees will also get a chance to hear from members of the production team who will be present to talk about the show and how people can help.

Rich Duncan Construction is inviting volunteers from the community to provide their time, support and resources to help ensure the success of this life-altering project. Interested individuals or companies can find more information on how to volunteer time and/or resources at www.richduncan-emhe.com. Following the kick off, people can sign up to volunteer for the project, which will start about a week later.

In conjunction with the build project, a food drive for the Marion Polk Food Share will be held. Those attending Thursday's kick off are asked to bring canned or non-perishable food items.

Rich Duncan is amazed at being a part of this project. "We are thrilled that Extreme Makeover: Home Edition has selected the Salem/Keizer area for their next project and we are excited to not only make a difference in the lives of people, but to also play a part in inspiring the Salem/Keizer community for a great cause. I'm excited to see how our community will step up to the plate to help," he said. Ty Pennington, team leader of the show, as well as his design team, will notify the recipients by showing up at the project site on September 6th.

For more information and to register for up to the minute information on the door knock, recipient announcement, and more, visit Rich Duncan Construction's website at www.richduncan-emhe.com and follow the links. Information and sign up forms on volunteering and donating can be found there.

ABOUT EMHE
The Emmy award winning reality program "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," now entering its 8th season, is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It's executive-produced by Brady Connell and George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America. The show airs Sundays from 8:00-9:00 p.m., ET on ABC.

Share how you're getting ready for an emergency on Twitter


This September, whether you shop for extra canned food, designate an out-of-area emergency contact or buy a battery-powered radio, any small step towards getting prepared for disasters could make you a big winner.

The Oregon Red Cross and Oregon Public Health Emergency Preparedness will host a "#just1thing" social media contest as part of National Preparedness Month. Oregonians who tweet one simple thing they're doing to get prepared will have a chance to win Red Cross emergency supplies, valued at approximately $100 per kit.

While anyone can share anything they're doing to get prepared at any time, each week of September will also have a special theme and corresponding prize:

Sept. 1-10: Children
Sept. 13-17: Families
Sept. 20-24: Workplace
Sept. 27-30: Pets

To participate, send a tweet to @RedCrossPDX (www.twitter.com/RedCrossPDX) and use the hashtag #just1thing. All participants are welcome, however only Oregon residents are eligible for prizes, to be awarded via random drawing. The contest is free and there are no requirements to purchase anything to participate. For details, visit www.oregonredcross.org/just1thing.

"National Preparedness Month is a nationwide effort to encourage all of us to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in our homes, businesses and communities," said Mike Harryman, Oregon Public Health Emergency Preparedness Manager. "Since social media tools are increasingly used to respond to disasters, why not also use them to get prepared?" In Oregon, the most likely disasters and emergencies include floods, wildfires, extreme weather events and earthquakes.

Other activities are planned for National Preparedness Month in Oregon. For more information on preparedness, see the Oregon Public Health Emergency Preparedness web site (www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/preparedness/index.shtml), www.oregonredcross.org and www.ready.gov.

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In Oregon, the American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disaster an average of 10 times a week; supplies more than 90 percent of Oregon's blood; teaches thousands of Oregonians lifesaving skills; offers transportation to seniors and the disabled; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.oregonredcross.org or join our award-winning blog at www.oregonredcross.org/blog.

With experience leading non-profits and an extensive fundraising background, Tod Thayer was an easy pick for the new executive director for the Oregon Pacific Chapter of the American Red Cross.

"From grant writing to capital campaigns and major donor solicitation, Tod has done it all," said Maree Wacker, Regional Executive for the Oregon Red Cross. "His skill in business development and talent for community networking is going to be invaluable in his new role."

In his new position, Thayer will lead the Oregon Pacific chapter, which serves Benton, Coos, Douglas, Lane and Linn counties. As executive director, he will be responsible for achieving annual fundraising goals and cultivating major donors; increasing public awareness of the Red Cross; and working with the local Board of Directors to develop and implement a strategic financial plan.

Thayer most recently served as executive director for the Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp in Portland, where he was responsible for all day-to-day operations of a 22.5 acre recreational camp for people with disabilities. His responsibilities also included oversight of a $1.5 million annual budget and management of 300 volunteers.

Prior to his position with Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp, Thayer worked as a real estate broker for Prudential NW Properties in Vancouver, Wash. and as a senior development officer for United Way of the Columbia Willamette in Portland. While at United Way, Thayer led the fundraising strategy for $11.5 million of a capital campaign. Thayer is also committed to community organizations, having served as a board member for Camp WARIKI and Little Children of the World and as a volunteer for the Evergreen Habitat For Humanity in Southwest Washington.

Said Thayer, "What excites me about this opportunity is the mission of the Red Cross to serve and prepare people to handle life's uncertainties and the fact that we are there when they need us most with support and resources. I look forward to serving the communities within the Oregon Pacific Chapter."

###

In Oregon, the American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disaster an average of 10 times a week; supplies more than 90 percent of Oregon's blood; teaches thousands of Oregonians lifesaving skills; offers transportation to seniors and the disabled; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.oregonredcross.org or join our award-winning blog at www.oregonredcross.org/blog.

The American Red Cross has developed a new PSA campaign and fundraising drive in anticipation of a very active hurricane season that could be made even worse by the Gulf Coast oil spill. The Red Cross has already spent $30 million training and preparing volunteers and pre-positioning equipment and materials and is gearing up to provide 1 million meals a day, shelter for 350,000 people a day and deployment of 50,000 volunteers.

We hope you'll consider sharing these new TV, radio and print PSAs with your audience, as space allows. If you need additional information or customization, please contact Lise Harwin at 503-969-7474.

TELEVISION PSAs
Download broadcast-ready QuickTime files at:
http://www.oregonredcross.org/TVPSA

RADIO PSAs
Download MP3 files at:
http://www.oregonredcross.org/RadioPSA

PRINT PSAs
Download PDF files in a variety of sizes at:
http://www.oregonredcross.org/PrintPSA

###

In Oregon, the American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disaster an average of 10 times a week; supplies more than 90 percent of Oregon's blood; teaches thousands of Oregonians lifesaving skills; offers transportation to seniors and the disabled; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.oregonredcross.org or join our award-winning blog at www.oregonredcross.org/blog.

The American Red Cross Pacific Northwest Blood Services Region issued an urgent call for blood donors on September 1, 2010.

The Red Cross closely monitors national and local blood supplies to ensure donations are keeping pace with hospital need for blood products in order to meet ongoing and emergency patient care.

"There is a critical need for blood donors now," said Steve Stegeman, ceo for the Pacific Northwest Blood Services Region of the Red Cross. "This summer we have had a particularly difficult time recruiting enough blood donors to meet the requirements of our community's hospitals and the patients they serve."

Donors with all blood types are needed, but especially those with type O negative. Red Cross officials say type O negative donors can make the difference between an adequate blood supply and a shortage. That's because type O negative blood can be transfused to patients with any blood type, and is most readily given to patients in emergency and trauma situations.

Every day, more than 39,000 pints of blood are needed for patients in the United States. Blood is used for the treatment of cancer patients, people with blood disorders, premature babies, transplant recipients, trauma victims and more. Each whole blood donation can help save up to three lives.

"We urge people to make and keep an appointment to donate blood now," said Stegeman. "Chances are, someone is counting on you right now for their very life."



How to Donate Blood
To schedule an appointment to donate please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org for more information. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate.

About the American Red Cross
The Pacific Northwest Blood Region needs to collect about 1,000 units of blood a day to meet patient need in over 80 hospitals. In addition to supplying nearly half of the nation's blood, the American Red Cross teaches lifesaving skills, provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization—not a government agency—and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. 08/10AP.


-END-

The American Red Cross Pacific Northwest Blood Services Region issued an urgent call for blood donors on September 1, 2010.

The Red Cross closely monitors national and local blood supplies to ensure donations are keeping pace with hospital need for blood products in order to meet ongoing and emergency patient care.

"There is a critical need for blood donors now," said Steve Stegeman, ceo for the Pacific Northwest Blood Services Region of the Red Cross. "This summer we have had a particularly difficult time recruiting enough blood donors to meet the requirements of our community's hospitals and the patients they serve."

Donors with all blood types are needed, but especially those with type O negative. Red Cross officials say type O negative donors can make the difference between an adequate blood supply and a shortage. That's because type O negative blood can be transfused to patients with any blood type, and is most readily given to patients in emergency and trauma situations.

Every day, more than 39,000 pints of blood are needed for patients in the United States. Blood is used for the treatment of cancer patients, people with blood disorders, premature babies, transplant recipients, trauma victims and more. Each whole blood donation can help save up to three lives.

"We urge people to make and keep an appointment to donate blood now," said Stegeman. "Chances are, someone is counting on you right now for their very life."



How to Donate Blood
To schedule an appointment to donate please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org for more information. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate.

About the American Red Cross
The Pacific Northwest Blood Region needs to collect about 1,000 units of blood a day to meet patient need in over 80 hospitals. In addition to supplying nearly half of the nation's blood, the American Red Cross teaches lifesaving skills, provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization—not a government agency—and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. 08/10APxxxx.


-END-

Press Release
08-19-2010
Canby Rodeo

Canby Rodeos Princess Erica Roney's was making a Royalty arena run on her 23 year old horse named Batty at the Thursday night Canby Rodeo. When the horse had a medical emergency. Canby Rodeo Veterinarian Mike Harms said "The horse suffered a cardiac emergency resulting in sudden death; these sudden cardiac events are very rare in horses"
This horse has been used for the last 20yrs for rodeo, 4H and Oregon High School equestrian. The horse was doing what it was trained and wanted to be doing this evening. Princess Erica Roney was not injured

Contacts:
Todd Gary: 503-969-7459 Canby Rodeo PIO
Paul Borgen: 503-339-4805 Canby Rodeo animal Welfare
Michael Harms DVM: 503-349-1627


Attached Media Files: Princess on Horse

Have you been married for at least 50 years? Or do you know someone who has? Do you like to win prizes? Then come on down to the Clackamas County Fair and participate in the Golden Wedding Game!

We need couples who have been married for at least 50 years for the Golden Wedding Game at the Fair. It's just like the Newlywed game, except you have to be married for 50 years or more. There are 2 games, one at 11am and one at 1pm on Wednesday, August 18th. All participants receive fabulous prizes including: a free chicken dinner at the fair, corsages and boutonnieres, free fair admission, and other amazing prizes sponsored by Bi-Mart.

If you are one of the first 500 seniors or disabled fair goers through the gate, you get a coupon for free ice cream (served between noon and 3pm). And you won't want to miss John English, "The Voice", who performs a tribute to Frank Sinatra (performing at 10am, 12pm, and 3pm). However, if you prefer to watch cowboys, Rodeo slack runs from 4pm-6pm and is free with Fair Admission. If you feel like sticking around in the evening, the Canby Rodeo starts at 7:30pm and is guaranteed to excite and entertain (ticketed event).

For more information visit our website: www.clackamascountyeventcenter.com or call the Fair Office at 503-266-1136.


Attached Media Files: Clackamas County Fair

Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 31 Announces our 2010 Young Eagle Event will be held September 11th at the Creswell Airport.

If you are between 8 and 17 years old, The EAA Young Eagles program wants to offer you the chance of a lifetime. Turn your dreams into reality with a free Young Eagles flight and become one of over 1 Million Young Eagles!

Registration begins at 9 am Saturday, September 11th and the first flights will start by 10.

Breakfast and Lunch will be available at family friendly prices.

Join us September 11th for EAA Chapter 31's 2010 Young Eagle event at the Creswell Airport- 83501 N. Melton Road

Citizens' Initiative Review Slightly Favors Measure 74 Contact: Tyrone Reitman 541-999-5088


The Citizens' Initiative Review (CIR) of Ballot Measure 74 concluded Friday, Aug. 20, with the citizen panel voting 13-11 in favor of the measure.

Measure 74, if approved by voters, would establish a system of medical marijuana dispensaries.

The Citizens' Initiative Review is a reform to Oregon's initiative process meant to provide voters with clear and trustworthy evaluations of statewide ballot measures. The CIR is a project of Healthy Democracy Oregon, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization committed to strengthening citizen ownership of, and integrity to, the ballot initiative process.

How the CIR worked:

A panel of 24 Oregon voters from around the state reviewed Measure 74 over the course of five days. The panel was randomly selected and demographically-balanced to fairly reflect the entire state electorate. The panelists participated in balanced hearings where advocates and policy experts presented arguments and information about the ballot measures.

After five days of testimony and deliberation, the panelists crafted a "Citizens' Statement" to be published in the Oregon Voter's Pamphlet which details the most important information and "key findings" about the measures and also reports the number of panelists who support or oppose the measures based on their evaluation.

"This was a great opportunity for the both the proponents and opponents to Measure 74 to engage the public in a meaningful conversation. The Citizens' Initiative Review is one of those rare opportunities in politics to really discuss the pros and cons of a ballot measure based upon sound information," said Tyrone Reitman, the Co-Director of Healthy Democracy Oregon. "We hope and expect the Citizens' Initiative Review process will be a valuable new tool for Oregon voters."

Oregon voters can learn more about Healthy Democracy Oregon and the Citizens' Initiative Review at: http://www.healthydemocracyoregon.org

Contact: Tyrone Reitman
541-999-5088


Second Citizens' Initiative Review Underway

The Citizens' Initiative Review (CIR) of Ballot Measure 74 begins Monday morning, Aug. 16, at the Salem Conference Center and concludes Friday, Aug. 20.

Measure 74, if approved by voters, would establish a system of medical marijuana dispensaries.

The Citizens' Initiative Review is a reform to Oregon's initiative process meant to provide voters with clear and trustworthy evaluations of statewide ballot measures. The CIR is a project of Healthy Democracy Oregon, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization committed to strengthening citizen ownership of, and integrity to, the ballot initiative process.

How the CIR works:

A panel of 24 Oregon voters from around the state will review Measure 74 over the course of five days. The panel was randomly selected, and demographically-balanced to fairly reflect the entire state electorate. The panelists will participate in balanced hearings where advocates and policy experts present arguments and information about the ballot measures.

After five days of testimony and deliberation, the panelists will craft a "Citizens' Statement" to be published in the Oregon Voter's Pamphlet. The Statement will detail the most important information and "key findings" about the measures and will also report the number of panelists who support or oppose the measures based on their evaluation.

"This is a great opportunity for the both the proponents and opponents to Measure 74 to engage the public in a meaningful conversation. The Citizens' Initiative Review is one of those rare opportunities in politics to really discuss the pros and cons of a ballot measure based upon sound information," said Tyrone Reitman, the Co-Director of Healthy Democracy Oregon.

Oregon voters can learn more about Healthy Democracy Oregon and the Citizens' Initiative Review at: http://www.healthydemocracyoregon.org

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First Citizens' Initiative Review Concludes Contact: Tyrone Reitman: 541-999-5088

The Citizens' Initiative Review (CIR) of Ballot Measure 73 at the Salem Conference Center concluded Friday, Aug. 13, with a "Citizens' Statement" (see below) that will appear in the Oregon Voter's Pamphlet.

Measure 73 requires increased minimum sentences for certain repeated sex crimes and incarceration for repeated driving under the influence.

The Citizens' Initiative Review is a reform to Oregon's initiative process meant to provide voters with clear and trustworthy evaluations of statewide ballot measures. The CIR is a project of Healthy Democracy Oregon, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization committed to strengthening citizen ownership of, and integrity to, the ballot initiative process.

How the CIR worked:

A panel of 24 Oregon voters from around the state reviewed Measure 73 over the course of five days. The panel was randomly selected, and demographically-balanced to fairly reflect the entire state electorate. The panelists participated in balanced hearings where advocates and policy experts presented arguments and information about the ballot measures.

On the final day, the panelists crafted a "Citizens' Statement" to be published in the Oregon Voter's Pamphlet. The Statement details the most important information and "key findings" about the measures and also reports the number of panelists who support or oppose the measure based on their evaluation.

"Over five full days, this panel of 24 voters from across Oregon heard from advocates for and against the measure, called upon policy experts to have their questions answered, and deliberated over the merits of Measure 73. Oregonians should be proud of what this panel accomplished this week. It is without a doubt that these 24 Oregonians succeeded in thoughtfully, fairly, and rigorously evaluating this measure." said Tyrone Reitman, the Co-Director of Healthy Democracy Oregon.

A Review of Measure 74, which establishes a medical marijuana dispensary system, will occur Aug. 16-20, also at the Salem Conference Center.

Oregon voters can learn more about Healthy Democracy Oregon and the Citizens' Initiative Review at: http://www.healthydemocracyoregon.org

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Citizen Statement of a Majority of the Panel:
Key Findings –The following are statements about the measure and the number of panelists who agree with each statement:

• M73 shifts the balance of power in court proceedings, giving the prosecution additional leverage in plea bargaining and limiting the judge's discretion in sentencing individual cases. (21 agree)
• Passed in 1994, Measure 11 (ORS 137.700) provides mandatory minimum sentencing of 70-300 months for the major felony sex crimes defined in Measure 73. (24 agree)
• Mandatory minimum sentencing has not proven a significant deterrent to future DUII or sex crimes. (21 agree)
• An unintended consequence of M73 is that juveniles aged 15 to 17 are subject to 25 year mandatory minimum sentences. (20 agree)
• Oregon spends over 10.9% of its general funds on corrections – a greater percentage than any other state. (19 agree)


Attached Media Files: Oregon Secretary of State Kate brown speaks to the citizen panel Friday, Aug. 13

PHOTO OP: Hundreds of motorcycles hit the streets for the health of babies everywhere.

--WHAT--
Motorcycle enthusiasts will rev up their bikes at three different Harley-Davidson dealerships in Oregon, ride for roughly 90 miles and meet at Hoodoo as a benefit for March of Dimes. When the riders arrive at Hoodoo, they'll enjoy live music from 41East and barbeque from Incredible Edibles Catering of Bend. All Prophets Tattoo will be there giving tattoos and judging the tattoo contest, and there will be a drawing, a silent auction and more.


--WHEN--
Saturday, August 21, 2010
9:00 – 10:30 AM – Registration, breakfast, opening ceremonies
10:30 AM – Bikers take off from Salem, Eugene and Bend
12:30 PM – Bikers arrive at Hoodoo


--WHERE--
3 Start Locations:
Cascade Harley-Davidson
63028 Sherman Rd.
Bend, OR 97701

Doyle's Harley-Davidson
86441 College View Rd, I-5 Exit 189
Eugene, OR 97405

Salem Harley Davidson
3601 Silverton Road NE
Salem, OR 97305

End at Hoodoo Ski Area


--WHY--
The most urgent infant health problem in the U.S. today is premature birth. It affects more than half a million babies each year. Babies born too soon are more likely to die or have disabilities. March of Dimes is committed to reducing this toll by funding research to find the answers to premature birth and providing comfort and information to families who are affected.


--HOW--
Learn more at marchofdimes.com/Oregon or bikersforbabies.org.

Local sponsorship for Bikers for Babies is provided by Cascade Harley-Davidson, Salem Harley-Davidson, Doyle's Harley-Davidson, Kendall Subaru, Horizon Broadcasting Group, KQAK, KBNW, KRCO, Lite 95.1, 104.1 The Peak, Hoodoo and AMA.

About March of Dimes
March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies, March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.

PORTLAND, Ore. (Sept. 3, 2010) What makes you, YOU? Why do you think, act, or look the way you do? How do others affect who you are? Learn the answers to these questions and the reasons why you became who you are in the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry's (OMSI) new exhibit, Identity: An Exhibition of You, opening Sept. 25, 2010. Identity explores the physical, psychological, and social elements in your life that make you tick and challenges our notions of personal identity. The exhibit uses the familiar—our body, our thoughts, our relationships—to make connections with the scientific—our genes, our brains. The Identity exhibit will be located in OMSI's Life Science Hall.

Identity is a hands-on, highly interactive exhibit that presents your own identity front and center while you learn about genetics and biological identity, cognitive science/psychology and personality, and social science and racial/ethnic identity.

The exhibit features three main areas associated with the three aspects of identity: physical—where we connect our body with our genes; psychological—where our thoughts connect to our brains; and social—where our relationships connect with our roles in society.

Highlights include:

Physical—"Why Do I Look Like I Do?"—Visitors start their journey by taking a new look at the most familiar aspect of identity: their physical selves. Physical traits and genetic inheritance are explored—from combining genes in a computer interactive exhibit, playing the game "Family Match-Up" to find out who belongs in which family, or stepping into a booth to look at your future self and seeing how the choices you make today can impact your identity tomorrow.

Psychological—"Why Do I Think Like I Do?"—Differences in our brain chemistry, brain structure, brain activity, and even gender can impact how you think. Visitors are challenged to make choices about their personality and explore exhibits that transform their personal qualities into interactive experiences. Explore how smells tell you something about yourself, or "hear" your personality in an open-ended musical art piece designed by an Emmy Award-winning musician. "Touch" the brain and activate a video that explains what that part of the brain does and what happens to your identity when something goes wrong. Learn about the differences gender brings to your brain, beginning in the womb.

Social Identity—"How Do Others Affect Who I Am?"—Visitors can step onto a "dance floor" and enter a playful, group experience about their personal space. Further in, discover what kind of groups you identify with and challenge your assumptions about what people are really like. Take a spin on the "Who Shares Your Skin" wheel, and see who else in the world shares your skin color, and then take a digital photo of yourself and change your gender/ethnicity on a computer. Finally, take a "rapid implicit association test" designed to probe for biases or find out if you are a science or humanity person. The answers may surprise you!

About OMSI
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation's leading science museums, a world-class tourist attraction, and an award-winning educational resource for the kid in each of us. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit www.omsi.edu.


Attached Media Files: 2010-09/865/38057/_MG_2657_Final.jpg

REPTILE AND AMPHIBIAN SHOW COMES TO OMSI LABOR DAY WEEKEND!

PORTLAND, Ore. (Aug. 12, 2010) — Crawl, creep, and slither your way to one of the largest gatherings of reptiles and amphibians in the Pacific Northwest when the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) presents the Reptile and Amphibian Show, Labor Day weekend, Sept. 4-6. Nearly 100 exotic animals will be on display at this popular event, including a large variety of captive-bred snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, and more. Experts will be available throughout the weekend to answer questions about these amazing and often misunderstood creatures.

Scheduled activities include "Ask the Vet" on Saturday, the popular pancake tortoise drawing demonstrations on Sunday, and a feature presentation about venomous reptiles on Monday. Visitors will also have the opportunity to touch reptilian skin in a special hands-on area where several dozen nonvenomous reptiles will be available for supervised interaction.

The show will also feature a Reptile Scavenger Hunt where visitors can win a special prize pack by discovering fun facts about reptiles posted on display throughout the exhibition room.

The Reptile and Amphibian Show will take place Sept. 4-6, 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the OMSI auditorium. Entrance to the show is included with paid museum admission. The activities schedule is as follows:

• Ask the Vet: Sat., Sept. 4, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., presented by Dr. Mark Burgess of South West Animal Hospital
• Pancake Tortoises: Sun., Sept. 5, 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m., presented by Dr. Rosemary Lombard
• Venomous Reptiles: Mon., Sept. 6, noon-3:00 p.m., presented by House of Reptiles

About OMSI
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation's leading science museums, a world-class tourist attraction, and an award-winning educational resource for the kid in each of us. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit www.omsi.edu.

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Attached Media Files: 2010-08/865/37462/ReptileShow2010_snake.jpg

Lake Oswego, Ore. (August 18, 2010) --- The Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (OAHHS) honored its fourth recipient of the Ellen C. Lowe Community Advocate Award during its annual membership meeting. This is the association's highest honor for a community member. This year's recipient is Lynn Read from Salem, Oregon. The award was presented by Ellen C. Lowe, OAHHS community advocate and inaugural recipient.

"Lynn is not your typical community advocate," said Lowe. "Her community is the whole state. Her advocacy comes quietly through the questions she answers in a most factual, thoughtful way. As she answers, she may ask why the question is being asked and then in turn mention other possible routes to lower the barriers to health care."

Read joined DHS in 1979. She initially worked in the field helping Oregonians accessing Medicaid services. Other assignments included education coordinator for Medicaid providers and field staff, fiscal manager, program and policy manager, DMAP administrator, assistant DMAP administrator and project director for the design, development and 1994 implementation of the Oregon Health Plan. Her current title is the deputy administrator of the Division of Medical Assistance Programs.

"At each step in my career I moved a bit farther away from direct client interactions and yet was able to make more profound impacts on the health and well being of Oregonians," said Read in a recorded speech. "We are only three and a half years away from universal health care access under national health care reform. This is an exciting, rewarding time for those committed to health care reform in Oregon and in the nation, and I accept [the award] as a representative for all who have helped the Oregon Health Plan grow and serve Oregonians."

"Lynn's understanding of the exquisite complexities of health care has made her the mentor of all of us, no matter what our role," said Lowe. "We trust her; she merits that trust."
About the Award: Started in 2007, The Ellen C. Lowe Community Advocate Award honors a community member for his or her unique, unusual or continuous support of a hospital mission and/or the health of its community. The recipient possesses compassion, understanding, wisdom and a clear vision to see to the core of community issues. This is an award for a community member and not a hospital employee.

Past Recipients:
2007: Ellen C. Lowe, Inaugural Recipient
2008: Judie Foreman, Salem, Oregon
2009: Betty Johnson, Corvallis, Oregon

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

OAHHS' current membership includes 58 acute care hospitals, 10 health systems and related health plans, 16 affiliated allied organizations and 32 associate members representing health care consulting and other professional service companies.

WHO: Liberty Mutual Invitational Golf Tournament
Benefitting the Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation
WHERE: The Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club  4805 SW 229th Avenue, Aloha, OR 97007
WHEN: Monday, September 20th  10:30 a.m. shotgun start

DETAILS: The Liberty Mutual Invitational (LMI) event helps support thousands of Oregonians that benefit from critical Foundation programs and services, including:
• Mobile Health Screening Program: The only statewide, free health screening program for over 30,000 Oregonians per year – 25,000 of them children – with a special focus on low income residents and those with no access to healthcare.
• Patient Care Program: Provides free sight and hearing-saving surgeries and treatments to those who lack insurance and cannot pay for services.

Funds raised go directly back to the community where each dollar is leveraged into five dollars.

There's still time to register your team for this first class event. Team registration is available for two flights; both include lunch and dinner, plus over $300 in tee prizes… including golf shoes!

Championship Flight: 4-player team with minimum team USGA handicap of 43.0; only one player
may be below 8.0 handicap. Winning team qualifies for LMI National Tourney, 72-hole event at
Pinehurst, NC; $1,500 entry fee.

Sight Scramble: 4-player team with no handicap restriction; $800 entry fee.

Please contact Doug Thompson at doug.thompson@orlions.org or at (503) 413-7527 for more information and additional sponsorship opportunities.

A Junior Golf Clinic, will also be held for visually impaired students where they will experience the joys and the challenges of playing golf!

This event is coordinated by the Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation and the Oregon Lions Clubs; serving uninsured and under insured Oregonians since 1959.

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Attached Media Files: This first class event will be held at the award-winning Reserve Winery and Golf Course in Aloha. , Visually impaired student participating in the Junior Golf Clinic.

Portland, OR (August 18, 2010) – The Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) has been named a finalist for a national award in the "50 States for Good" initiative by Tom's of Maine. It is one of two Oregon non-profits selected for the top 41 finalists list and winners will be decided in a public online vote now through September 10.

Your vote can make a difference in the lives of adults and children lacking access to preventative health care. The need for health screening in Oregon schools has never been greater. Over 640,000 Oregonians (18%) have no health insurance, 118,000 of them are children. OLSHF is the only agency in the state – outside of hospitals or clinics – that offers free health checks through their Mobile Health Screening Program (MHSP). The success of this program depends on collaboration with volunteers, local schools, health professionals, community organizations, and Lions Clubs to conduct free health screening events at schools and community events.

"OLSHF utilizes thousands of volunteers to screen the sight and hearing of 25,000 school children for free each year. We simply couldn't provide that service without our dedicated volunteers," stated Executive Director Glen Gilbert. More than 5,000 adults will also be screened for sight, hearing, high blood pressure, diabetes, and glaucoma. This statewide effort increases awareness of health conditions before they become a crisis.

OLSHF has the opportunity to receive a total of $100,000 or $20,000 to be awarded to each of the top five voting-receiving charities. It's up to you to help OLSHF be one of the winners! Please cast your vote TODAY and EVERYDAY at www.50statesforgood.com.

Your vote can help vulnerable Oregonians receive critical health solutions through free, preventative health screenings.


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