Released By: Sergeant Jason Wall

Release Date: June 7, 2023

Location: 16000 Block of 1^st Street, La Pine

Driver: Paul Nathaniel Carter, 52-year-old male, La Pine

Charges: Driving While Suspended-Violation, Careless Driving

Narrative:

On June 7, 2023, at 10:18 am, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to an unknown injury motor vehicle crash at the Parks and Recreation building on 1^st Street in La Pine.

Initial reports detailed a vehicle had crashed into the building and the driver was not exiting. Reporting people on scene advised the driver did not appear to be injured, however would need assistance exiting the vehicle.

La Pine Fire/Medics arrived to assist deputies with the crash. During the course of the investigation, it was determined the driver was not under the influence of intoxicants. The driver advised he must have fallen asleep and was not able to negotiate the roadway, crashing into the building.

The driver was issued citations as a result of the crash, however, was not injured.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is a full-service agency that oversees the adult jail, provides patrol, criminal investigations, civil process and search and rescue operations. Special units include SWAT, Street Crimes, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with six K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves 210,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 265 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 195 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

Pendleton, OR—The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for portions of northeast Oregon, including parts of Union and Wallowa Counties. The watch is in effect from Thursday morning (6/8/23) through Friday morning (6/9/23). 

Heavy rain may result in landslides in areas of steep terrain, as well as debris flows in and near burn scars from recent wildfires including the Double Creek, Nebo, and Sturgill fires.

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

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

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

- Stay alert. Track the flood watch by radio, TV, weather radio or online. If told to evacuate, do so immediately.

- Listen. Unusual sounds might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together. A trickle of falling mud or debris may precede larger landslides. If you think there is danger of a landslide, leave immediately.

- Watch the water. If water in a stream or creek suddenly turns muddy or the amount of water flowing suddenly decreases or increases, this is a warning that the flow has been affected upstream. You should immediately leave the area because a debris flow may soon be coming downstream.

- Travel with extreme caution. Assume roads are not safe. Be alert when driving, especially at night. Embankments along roadsides may fail, sending rock and debris onto the road.

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

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UPDATE

Released BY: Sergeant Jason Wall

Release Date: June 7, 2023

Location: United States Forest Service Road 4610, Phil’s Trailhead area

Arrested: 33-year-old male, Canby, Oregon

Charges: Disorderedly Conduct 1^st Degree (Citation in Lieu of Custody)

Narrative:

On June 7, 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Threat Operations Center contacted Deschutes County 911, advised a male had contacted the Threat Operations Center and was in crisis. The male was able to provide enough information to the Threat Operations Center that his general location was determined to be in Deschutes County.

Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched and attempted to contact the male in crisis. Eventually deputies were able to speak directly to the male on the telephone and maintained a dialogue during the entire event. The male was admittedly armed with a handgun, and possibly a long rifle. The male was threatening self-harm and threatening to harm others.

It was determined the male was located in the area of Phil’s Trailhead and or near the USFS Road 4610. Out of an abundance of caution for the public, the male, and all law enforcement the area was closed to the public while the incident was resolved.  

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team was activated and responded to the area with an armored rescue vehicle, and a negotiator.

The male in crisis was contacted by members of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team and taken into custody without incident. The negotiator played an integral role during this incident which prevented anyone from being injured.

The male was transported to St. Charles, Bend for evaluation. The male was issued a criminal citation to appear for the crime of Disorderly Conduct in the 1^st Degree.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is a full-service agency that oversees the adult jail, provides patrol, criminal investigations, civil process and search and rescue operations. Special units include SWAT, Street Crimes, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with six K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves 210,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 265 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 195 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

END OF UPDATE

For Immediate Release

There is currently heavy law enforcement presence in the area of Phil's Trailhead. Please avoid the area, if you are currently in the area, please return to your vehicle and vacate in a safe coordinated manner.

At this time there is no direct threat to the community, however this is an active investigation.

More information will be released when it becomes available.

End of Release

PRINEVILLE, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management is proud to announce the opening of new facilities in Maupin for the BLM and partners, including regional Tribes, to coordinate management of some of Oregon’s most treasured natural resources.

The new facilities include an office, workshop, and seasonal housing and will serve as the operations center for recreation staff who enhance the visitor experience on the Lower Deschutes Wild and Scenic River. The BLM manages the Lower Deschutes in partnership with the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation, the State of Oregon, and several local government entities.

“Recreation on the Lower Deschutes supports over 100 local outfitting and guiding businesses,” said Kyle Hensley, BLM Central Oregon Field Office Manager. “Hundreds of thousands of people visit the area each year to experience all that nature has to offer and create memories that last a lifetime.”

These facilities are critical for infrastructure management along the river and will assist with multi-jurisdictional coordination among partners for emergency response and services including wildland fire and search and rescue efforts. This project supports the capability of BLM and partners to be better neighbors to the Tribes, counties, and multiple communities that rely on the river’s natural and economic resources.

A decade in the making, this project was made possible through partial funding by the Great American Outdoors Act, a historic investment to address deferred maintenance needs, increase recreational access to public lands, and improve the conservation of our lands and waters. Since the act was signed in 2020 about $45 million has been invested in public lands managed by the BLM in Oregon and Washington.

-BLM-

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

Released By: Sergeant Jason Wall

Release Date: June 6, 2023

Location: Fergusons Market, 8150 N. Highway 97, Terrebonne

Narrative:

On June 4, 2023, at approximately 10:50 pm, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office responded to an alarm at Fergusons Market in Terrebonne. 

During the investigation it was determined that the male suspect entered through a window, attempted to steal alcohol, cigarettes, and food. As deputies arrived on scene the suspect fled the building and was able to avoid apprehension. 

Deputies were able to obtain video surveillance footage of the suspect and the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect or the vehicle of interest.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office asks that the public does not contact or confront suspect but instead contacts Deschutes County 911 at 541-693-6911, with any information. The male suspect in the surveillance is armed with what appears to be an authentic firearm.

The male suspect was wearing a green “Champion” hooded sweatshirt, a face mask, dark colored pants, and a pair of “Vans” “Off the Wall” lace up shoes.

The vehicle of interest is a white 4 door sedan, with an unknown license plate.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is a full-service agency that oversees the adult jail, provides patrol, criminal investigations, civil process and search and rescue operations. Special units include SWAT, Street Crimes, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with six K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves 210,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 265 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 195 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

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

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

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

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

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Prineville, Ore. – Fire season on all lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District will begin June 9, 2023, at 12:01 a.m. Starting this Friday, the district’s fire danger level will be “Moderate”, and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will be I (one) in MH-4 and MH-1 (Hood River and Wasco counties). 

Earlier this year, fire managers were optimistic regarding this year’s fire season due to the higher-than-normal snowpack. However, due to the decline in spring rain, rise in temperatures, and windy conditions, the fine fuels in the district have begun to dry significantly. 

So far this year, the district has experienced 22 fires, of which half were escaped debris burns. Debris burning is the number one cause of human-caused fires. As we move into fire season, debris burning will be prohibited. ODF recommends covering your pile until the rainy fall when it’s safer to burn. 

With that in mind, the Central Oregon District will begin implementing restrictions based on fire danger level. Moderate fire danger level restricts the following activities: 

• No debris burning, including piles and debris burned in burn barrels. 

• No fireworks on or within 1/8 of a mile of ODF-protected land. 

• Exploding targets and tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base, are prohibited. 

• No smoking while traveling through or working in any operation area.

In addition to the fire prevention requirements Under IFPL I (one), the following will go into effect:

• A Firewatch is required for a minimum of one hour during breaks and at the end of the operational period.

Additional fire restrictions or regulations may apply depending on the various fire risks throughout the fire season.

The Oregon Department of Forestry urges residents to not become complacent in wildfire prevention. The less human-caused fires we have, the less the district’s resources are strained. For tips on wildfire prevention, visit www.keeporegongreen.org  

For more information on the Central Oregon District and fire season regulations, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/. Check your local restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Date: June 6, 2023

Fleet camera system installation underway on Bend Police vehicles

In July 2022, the Bend City Council approved a five-year, $679,500 contract with Axon to install a fleet camera system in Bend Police Department patrol vehicles, paving the way for Bend officers to increase law enforcement accountability and have additional public safety equipment at their fingertips. The contract provided for the purchase and installation of the cameras, as well as software and video storage. 

Last week, Axon technicians began installing the Axon fleet camera systems in all patrol vehicles. That work is expected to continue through at least June 14. When complete, every officer will use a body-worn camera and every vehicle will be equipped with a camera during their shifts.

This is the second and final phase in the Bend Police Department’s body-worn camera project that was brought before the City Council and approved in 2021. Axon is also the vendor for the Bend Police Department’s body-worn camera system, which was implemented in 2021-22. 

The goal of these camera systems is to further increase the transparency of our local law enforcement actions, as well as to improve public safety, reduce crime and assist in prosecution efforts. The camera systems serve as an effective tool for helping the public access and understand interactions between officers and community members. All video recordings will be stored in a secure cloud location, and the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office will have the ability to review the recordings.

"We are pleased that the installation of our in-car camera systems is nearly complete,” Police Chief Mike Krantz said. “This technological advancement marks a significant milestone in our commitment to enhance safety, transparency and accountability. The state-of-the-art system also enhances our ability to capture critical evidence. We are committed to using technology to improve our service to the community. The City of Bend Police Department will continue to be at the forefront of innovation in public safety.” 

See video of the process here: Bend Police Install Axon Fleet Camera System - YouTube

Bend Police Install Axon Fleet Camera System (FOR MEDIA WITH NO CAPTIONS) - YouTube

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Funded projects:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Investigators are unable to release further information at this time.

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

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

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

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

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

To submit comments on the draft State Plan on Aging:

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

About the Office of Aging and People with Disabilities: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Release Date: June 5th, 2023

Location: Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, 63333 W. Highway 20, Bend, 97703

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the 2023 Youth Academy, held on July 12th & 13th, between 8:00 am to 3:30 pm.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Youth Academy is a cooperative activity in which all participants must work together to make the program safe and successful. The program’s training is accomplished primarily in a classroom setting, although some trainings take place outdoors. The program involves some physical activity such as training in self-defense tactics.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office does its best to make this a positive experience, which emphasizes teamwork, cooperation, and community service; it provides participants with the opportunity to learn about careers in law enforcement and related agencies.

The training program involves instruction in the areas of:

· Criminal Law overview

· Patrol Division procedures

· Investigations Division procedures

· Crime Scene Investigations

· Custody Division orientation

· Defensive tactics

· K9 presentation

· SWAT

· Search and Rescue – presentation and practical exercises

· Practical Scenarios

For further details, and applications for this academy please visit the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page and click on the provided link.

Redmond, Oregon - At approximately 8:00 a.m., Monday, June 5, 2023, Redmond Police Detectives responded to a suspicious circumstances call at the Law Offices of Fitch and Neary, located at 210 SW 5th St.  Mayor Ed Fitch reported the incident, describing to officers a sign with intimidating language and a dead raccoon had been left on the front door of his office.  

The sign placed on the door mentioned Mayor Ed Fitch and Councilor Clifford Evelyn by name. Based on the content of the sign’s message and the dead raccoon this is being investigated as a potential bias crime in the 2^nd degree.  

Oregon defines a bias crime in the second degree when a person tampers or interferes with property, having no right to do so nor reasonable ground to believe that the person has such right, with the intent to cause substantial inconvenience to another person because of the person’s perception of the other person’s race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or national origin. 

“The Redmond Police Department has no tolerance for hate speech of any kind, against any person or group,” states Police Chief Devin Lewis.  “We will work swiftly to resolve this case and seek to hold those who did this to our community responsible." states Police Chief Devin Lewis.   

The Redmond Police are asking for the public for any assistance in locating the suspect(s) who placed the sign and the deceased racoon at the entry way of the Law Offices of Fitch and Neary sometime during the late evening of June 4, or early morning of June 5.  If you know who may be responsible or witnessed suspicious activity in the area, please notify the Police by calling the non-emergency number at 541-693-6911 and ask to speak with Detective Sergeant Jeremy Gautney.  Reference RPD case #23-16282.  

The Urban League of Portland brings together career seekers and employers from all sectors for the 38 th
Annual Career Connections Job Fair on June 8, 2023. The fair will be held in person at the Crowne Plaza
Hotel located at 1441 NE Second Avenue Portland, OR 97232. No-cost registration is required for job
seekers. All are welcome regardless of experience, race, age or physical ability.
Hundreds of diverse career seekers will have the opportunity to talk with potential employers who will be
onsite to discuss their companies and current job vacancies. The Urban League partners with
participating employers that are as diverse as the career seekers who attend. A broad range of positions
and industries will return this year.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The committee’s agenda includes:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OSP was assisted by McKenzie Fire and ODOT.

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

Funded projects:

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

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

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

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

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

UPDATE

Missing/Overdue Has Been Located.

Anne Koch has been located and is no longer considered Missing/Overdue.

END OF UPDATE

Released By: Sergeant Jason Wall

Release Date: June 4, 2023

Subject: Anne Louise Koch, 79-year-old female, La Pine

Vehicle of Interest: 2020 Black Kia Telluride OR 600 LRL

MISSING-OVERDUE SUBJECT

Narrative:

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance with locating a missing/overdue female, Anne Louise Koch.

Anne was last seen at 5:00 am, on June 4, 2023. Anne left her residence, the 14000 block of White Pine Way, La Pine. Anne also left her purse and cellular phone at her residence. Family is unsure as to where Anne may travel in her 2020 black Kia Telluride bearing an Oregon License plate 600 LRL.

Anne does not have any extended family in the area and lived in the Yamhill County area for nearly 40 years. Anne is relatively new to the Deschutes County area and may become easily disoriented with her direction of travel.

If Anne is seen or if the public has any information about her whereabouts, please contact Deschutes County 911, 541-693-6911.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is a full-service agency that oversees the adult jail, provides patrol, criminal investigations, civil process and search and rescue operations. Special units include SWAT, Street Crimes, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with six K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves 210,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 265 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 195 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

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

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

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

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

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At approximately 11:45pm on June 2, Redmond Fire & Rescue was alerted to a possible structure fire at 3498 NE 33rd St. Deschutes County Sheriff's deputies arrived on scene and were able to determine that all occupants had safely evacuated the home and there was visible fire coming from a bedroom window.

Fire crews quickly deployed handlines and made an aggressive interior fire attack and were able to get the fire under control within a few minutes of arriving on scene. During the fire crews search of the residence two dogs were located and removed from the structure. Fire crews quickly deployed the pet oxygen masks carried on all Redmond Fire & Rescue engines and life saving measure were taken, both dogs responded well to the treatment and are doing well.

Fire investigators were on scene conducting interviews and analyzing the fire debris and fire patterns to determine the origin and cause of the fire. Fire investigators were able to determine that a small handheld butane lighter that was used to light a cigarette was placed on to a nearby bed and the hot metal on the lighter quickly ignited the bedding and mattress.

Fire investigators also determined that the residents did not have working smoke alarms inside the home. This is a good reminder to install working smoke alarms within your home and to test them on a regular basis.

Fire damage to the residence was significant and the residents have been displaced due to the fire. The Red Cross is providing assistance to the occupants.

Redmond Fire & Rescue was assisted by Crooked River Fire & Rescue and the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office.

Travelers should plan for delays of up to 20 minutes starting Monday along the Medical Springs Highway (OR 203) east of Union. ODOT contractors will be performing paving operations between milepost 0.7 near Union and milepost 11.9, with flaggers directing single-lane travel through the area. Expect extra truck traffic on the highway between the work zone and the material stockpile site near the Catherine Creek Snow Park at milepost 14.06.  The paving work should be complete by mid-June, but crews will return in a few weeks to apply a protective chip seal over the new pavement to help extend its useful life. During chip seal operation travelers can expect single lane travel controlled by pilot cars, 20-minute delays, reduced speeds, loose rock on the roadway, plus day and nighttime brooming operations. The route will be restriped later this summer. Drive with extra caution, slow down and obey flaggers and work zone signs. Check TripCheck.com for updated traffic information. 

(Salem, OR) — The 60^th anniversary of Older Americans Month brings an opportunity all year to renew our commitment to being active participants in dismantling stereotypes about aging. 

As Gov. Tina Kotek’s proclamation of Older Americans Month says, “Oregon can work to build even better communities for our older residents by: expanding our thinking about aging, combating ageism, valuing age as an asset and emphasizing the many positive aspects of aging, inspiring older adults to push past traditional boundaries and embracing the diversity within our aging population.” Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) works to remove barriers so that older adults can access the supports they need to live their best lives – in the communities they choose and at every stage of life. 

“Discrimination of any kind is not acceptable, this includes ageism. We strive to ensure independence and choice for older adults in Oregon through services and supports that promote individual well-being and aging with dignity,” said Nakeshia Knight-Coyle, director of the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD). 

By the year 2034, Oregonians who are 65 and older will outnumber children under 18. Oregon is looking ahead to make Oregon an age-friendly state in which people of all ages are included, engaged in services and can thrive. APD’s programs honor an individual’s choice in addressing needs such as food insecurity through meal programs, financial instability through disability determination, crisis funds and employment programs, and provision of programs that offer people options to determine where they want to live and receive services and supports. 

Oregonians can learn about programs and resources available in their communities by reaching the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC). The ADRC of Oregon provides information and referral services as well as options counseling to help older adults and people with disabilities find long-term care supports that meet their needs. ADRC information and referral and options counseling services are free for everyone, regardless of age or income. The ADRC website features a searchable database of more than 5,000 statewide resources for things like medical care, meal sites and employment needs. The ADRC can be reached by phone at 1-855-ORE-ADRC (673-2372). To find resources on the ADRC website, visit: www.adrcoforegon.org. 

APD provides Oregon’s older adults with choices through a wide variety of programs such as: 

• Oregon Project Independence (OPI), which helps people remain in their own homes by providing in-home services. In 2022, OPI helped 1,850 people to stay in their own homes.
• Financial eligibility determination services that helped 180,000 older adults access Medicaid, Medicare premium, general assistance and SNAP benefits in 2022.
• Medicaid Long-Term Services and Supports helps eligible individuals receive services in their own home, in a licensed community setting or a nursing facility. All services are person centered and help the individual meet their goals. In the two-year period ending June 2021, 56,268 individuals received support. 
• Meal programs, through the Older Americans Act, provide home-delivered meals and fund congregate meal sites to support physical health and access to nutritious meals. In 2022, more than 1.2 million home-delivered meals were provided, and 310,568 meals were served at congregate meal sites to 20,614 older adults in Oregon.
• Adult Protective Services (APS) works in the community and in licensed care facilities to keep older adults safe from abuse. In 2021, APS assisted 13,554 alleged victims of abuse.

About the Office of Aging and People with Disabilities: 

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

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On Thursday, June 1, 2023, at approximately 11:45 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 199, near milepost 5.5, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Ford Fusion, operated by Courtney L. Parsons (26) of Rogue River, was southbound in the fast lane. A white GMC Sierra, operated by Ervin Besler (87) of Grants Pass, failed to properly clear traffic while turning left from Robinson Rd onto northbound Hwy 199. The Fusion impacted the driver side of the GMC in a T-bone collision. 

The operator of the GMC (Besler) was declared deceased on scene. 

The operator of the Ford (Parsons) was transported by AMR to the hospital.  Two passengers in the Ford, John D. McCollum (25) of Myrtle Point and Matthew J. Balise (19) of West Springfield (MA), were also transported by AMR to the hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately 3.5 hours while the on-scene investigation was conducted.

OSP was assisted by AMR, Rural Metro Fire, and ODOT.

Nearly 1,000 nurses will walk if a deal isn’t reached during negotiations next week 

(Bend, Ore.) - On June 1, 2023, nurses at St. Charles Medical Center in Bend, represented by the Oregon Nurses Association, delivered a 10-day notice of their intent to strike to hospital management. The notice informed management that the nearly 1,000 nurses at the facility intend to begin their strike on June 12, 2023, at 7:00 a.m. 

Erin Harrington, RN, Chair of the St. Charles Medical Center Bend Bargaining Unit Executive Committee, said during a press conference this morning, “We have provided a 10-day notice to give enough time for the hospital to transfer patients and make decisions about what services they will continue to provide. It is important for you to know that St. Charles has a duty to provide adequate care to this community, and because they need to meet that need, St. Charles should seek to settle this contract as soon as possible.” 

Nurses and management have been engaged in contract negotiations for months and nurses are clear that hospital management has not responded to their concerns with serious proposals. “We asked St. Charles to put safe staffing standards to protect patients and support quality care into our contract. They said no,” said Heather Bristol, RN. “We asked St. Charles to help the nurses who provide health care get more affordable health insurance. They said no. We asked St. Charles to give us assurances that, if St. Charles sells the hospital to some other health system, we could keep our jobs. They said no. We asked for reasonable, competitive pay – pay that will enable nurses to afford to live in this community while caring for the members of this community, and a salary that will help recruit nurses to the hospital. They said no.” 

Nurses and management have two additional negotiating sessions scheduled for June 6 and 7 which will include a federal mediator. “It is important for everyone to know that we are engaged in every effort to reach a fair agreement,” said Harrington. “And that includes having a federal mediator attend upcoming negotiations on June 6 and 7. Nurses have bargained in good faith, and we need St. Charles to do the same in the hope of getting a fair contract before June 12 at 7:00 a.m.” 

Jonathon Baker, President of the Oregon Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals, a union that represents nearly 6,000 RNs and healthcare professionals in Oregon and Southwest Washington at healthcare systems like Kaiser, PeaceHealth, and at St. Charles, also attended the press conference and offered the support of his union. “The RNs represented by ONA are the ones that actually do the patient care, not the high-paid executives who are refusing to agree to a fair contract,” Baker said. “Along with the techs we represent, the RNs are who is keeping Central Oregon healthy day in and day out. We, together, are who carried this community through the pandemic, who come into work each morning prepared to do what it takes to save lives.” 

Also in attendance at the press conference was Oregon State Representative Jason Kropf, who called upon St. Charles to return to the bargaining table prepared to reach a fair contract. “To be clear, the status quo is unacceptable. Federal unfair labor practice act complaints, state staffing law complaints, and OSHA violations all underscore that St. Charles must do better,” said Kropf. “I am urging St. Charles executives to reach a fair contract that empowers our nurses to safely and effectively return to work. Our community deserves quality healthcare, and our nurses deserve the support to provide it.” 

Nurses continue to engage in outreach to the greater Central Oregon region to educate the community about the many issues they face. Community members can visit www.RespectOurNurses.com to learn more about ongoing negotiations, sign a community petition in support of the nurses, and get information about the impact of a potential strike. 

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is the state’s largest and most influential nursing organization. We are a professional association and labor union which represents more than 16,000 nurses and allied health workers throughout the state, including nearly 1,000 frontline nurses at St. Charles Medical Center in Bend. ONA also represents nurses at other St. Charles facilities in Redmond and Prineville. ONA’s mission is to advocate for nursing, quality health care and healthy communities. For more information visit: www.OregonRN.org. 

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