Salem, Ore.—The heat of summer makes shade-covered state forest an appealing destination for many.

“July and August see the most visitors to our state forests,” said Joe Offer, Oregon Department of Forestry’s Recreation Program Manager. “With that increase of visitors is also an increase in wildfire danger since 70 percent of wildfires are human caused.”

ODF posts fire danger levels and public use restrictions on information boards in recreation areas and on most access roads to state forests. There are four levels: Low, Moderate, High and Extreme, with corresponding restrictions for certain activities. As the forests dry out and the humidity levels decrease, the fire danger levels typically increase—and so do the restrictions to help prevent fires.

“The vast majority of our visitors want to do the right thing,” said Offer. “The largest obstacle is a general lack of awareness about what is allowed or not allowed at each level, and what fire prevention items they should have with them while recreating on state forest land.”

For example, as levels reach Moderate and High, recreational fires are only allowed at designated sites within metal fire rings. Additionally, during the entire designated fire season, anyone traveling on state forestlands is also required to have a shovel and a gallon of water or a 2.5-pound ABC fire extinguisher in their vehicle at all times.

“Few people are aware of the requirements for carrying a shovel and water or fire extinguisher while on ODF managed forestland. However, just having that equipment with you could mean the difference of saving the forest from a fire or not,” said Offer. “Similarly, anyone riding an off-highway vehicle (OHV) during fire season is required to have a fire extinguisher with them at all times for the same reasoning.”

Beyond the requirement of carrying a fire extinguisher, all OHVs must have exhaust guards and spark arrestors. However, even those design features don’t make them completely fire safe. Due to the possibility of starting a fire during the driest and most dangerous fire conditions, ODF mandates that offroad trail riding is prohibited from 1-8 p.m. when High fire danger levels are met, while all offroad riding is fully prohibited in Extreme fire danger.

Year round there is no smoking, launching of sky lanterns, or use of exploding targets, trace ammunition, or fireworks on any state forestland.

All ODF district and local offices post fire danger levels and can answer questions on restrictions.

“Another quick and easy way to see the fire danger levels is to visit our fire danger levels website,” said Offer. The link: Oregon Department of Forestry Public Fire Restrictions Tip: Click on the left-hand column hypertext titled: “ODF Statewide Fire Danager” and it brings up a layer with a color-coded map for the four levels.

If state forest visitors see others not following the rules they can report it to any ODF staff member.

“Our main goal is awareness and education about the restrictions to protect lives and the forest,” said Offer. “And we ask that all visitors to the forest do their part to help educate others on rules and restrictions as well.”

Lastly, if anyone sees a wildfire while visiting the forest they should call 911 immediately and give the best location information possible so firefighters can find it and put it out quickly.

uly 26, 2024

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA warns of potential measles exposures in Marion County

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is recommending people who were recently in certain locations in Marion County to monitor themselves for symptoms of measles and talk to a health care provider if those symptoms arise.

People may have been exposed to the virus if they were in any of these locations during these times on Wednesday, July 17:

• Waremart (5450 River Road N., Keizer), between noon and 1:20 p.m.
• Walmart (3002 Stacy Allison Way, Woodburn), between 1:15 and 2:35 p.m.
• Safeway (1550 N. Pacific Hwy, Woodburn), between 2:40 and 3:05 p.m.

Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles can also linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication. In developed countries in recent years, one or two out of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal.

“Measles is the most contagious disease we know,” said Paul Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) Public Health Division. “If you have a rash, please don’t drop in on an emergency department or your doctor’s office. Call ahead so that the doctor can arrange to meet you where others won’t be exposed.”

Since mid-June, 15 cases of measles have been reported in Oregon, all among unvaccinated persons. Of the cases, 12 are confirmed and three are presumptive. Two people have been hospitalized. Other cases are suspected but not yet confirmed.

The measles outbreak is spread among three counties: Marion, with nine cases; Clackamas with five; and Multnomah with one. Nine of the cases are younger than 10, four are ages 10 to 19, and two are 20 or older.

Visit the homepage of OHA’s Acute and Communicable Disease Prevention Section for daily updates of measles outbreak data. 

Determining your risk of measles

Measles vaccination is highly effective, and most Oregonians have been vaccinated, usually as children. Anyone who has received a measles vaccination at any time in their life has a low risk of getting measles. Risk is much higher for anyone who has not received measles vaccination and who may have been exposed to the disease.

If you or your family was present in one of the stores during the identified time window, please consider the following steps:

• Check your immunity status. Individuals are considered immune to measles if any of the following apply:
  • Born before 1957
  • Diagnosed with measles in the past
  • A blood test confirms immunity
  • Received two doses of the measles vaccine
• Monitor for symptoms of measles for 21 days after exposure (until August 7). Symptoms include:
  • Fever
  • Rash
  • Cough
  • Red, watery eyes
• If you are unvaccinated, limit your exposure to others outside your immediate household.
• If you have received one dose of the MMR vaccine, limit your exposure in high-risk settings like healthcare facilities, schools and daycares.
• If you develop measles-like symptoms, contact your health care provider before going in for care.
• If you are not vaccinated but wish to be, contact your health care provider to schedule a vaccine appointment.

Marion County’s Public Health Clinic, located at 3160 Center Street NE in Salem, offers free vaccines to children (ages 0–18) who are uninsured, enrolled in Medicaid/Oregon Health Plan, or are American Indian/Alaskan Native.

To schedule an appointment or for more information, call 503-588-5342.

Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/diseasesconditions/diseasesaz/pages/measles.aspx

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On July 25th, 2024, at approximately 830pm, Sunriver Police Department personnel were dispatched to Acer Lane in Sunriver for a report of a firearm being discharged inside a residence.  Witnesses reported the lone occupant of the residence was potentially experiencing a mental health crisis and they heard a gunshot come from inside.  The Sunriver Police Department and the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office arrived, secured the area, notified adjacent residences, and established contact with the female subject within the residence in question.  The subject refused to speak with law enforcement.  After verifying the subject was alone in the residence and that the subject did not intend to harm others, law enforcement attempted to de-escalate the situation by backing away from the residence and observing it from a distance.  Sunriver Police monitored the residence until the morning of July 26th, when contact was re-established with the subject who agreed to exit the residence and was subsequently taken into custody without incident.  The Sunriver Police Department would like to thank the Sunriver Community for their patience as this incident was peacefully resolved.  We would also like to thank the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance.  

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation’s (DFR) Drug Price Transparency Program is seeking the public’s input on high prescription drug prices. Consumers are encouraged to report prescription drug price increases on DFR’s website, dfr.oregon.gov/rxdrugprices.

If anyone needs help completing this form, or has questions, they can call the message line at 833-210-4560 (toll-free) and leave a message with the best time to call back. Individuals can also reach DFR by email at x.prices@dcbs.oregon.gov">rx.prices@dcbs.oregon.gov.

Getting information directly from consumers will help DFR have more accurate information about how consumers are affected by high or increased costs of their prescription drugs. This will help the division inform the Oregon Legislature in DFR’s annual report, which is expected to come out in December. Consumers can also view the data on the DFR website and provide stories for the annual hearing and report.

“We recognize that prescription drug costs are increasing and the impact this has on Oregonians on a daily basis,” DFR Administrator TK Keen said. “Our hope is to get input from the public so we can inform policymakers and researchers alike on prescription drug costs.”

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Salem, Ore.—July 25, 2024 — If you are travelling by car this summer, especially if you are headed to Eastern Oregon, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) are encouraging you to be fire safe and prepared.

The 2024 wildfire season is shaping up to be one for the record books. With Govenor Tina Kotek invoking the Emergency Conflagration Act for Durkee and Battle Mountain Complex Fires, there are now three large complex fires burning through acres of land east of the Cascades. Fire officials and OEM are asking people to take every precaution possible to avoid adding to the problem.

While you are packing and preparing to take off and explore our state, it’s important to stay up to date on road closures with Tripcheck.com; connect with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) about campfire restrictions; and make sure you have emergency supplies in case you get stranded.

Here is a list of items to consider for a basic emergency car kit:

• Jumper cables
• Flares or reflective triangle
• Car cell phone charger
• Blanket
• Map
• Cat litter or sand for tire traction in ice
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help if the air is smokey or dusty
• Plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape to shelter in place if needed
• Wet wipes, garbage bags, toilet paper and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Printed maps of the local area in case you lose service
• Cell phone and a backup charger
• Cash or traveler's checks
• A fire extinguisher you know how to use

Finally, pack extra water and snakes in case you get stuck for a while.

In addition to packing an emergency kit, ODOT wants to remind travelers to use U.S. 20 to move east or west across central and eastern Oregon, and if you must travel, consult Tripcheck.com and check conditions for your route. It is also important to make sure your car is tuned up, has plenty of gas and the tires are in good condition.

Here are more tips to be a fire safe traveler:  

• When pulling off the road, stay on paved surfaces when possible.
• Avoid the side of the road where dry grass and other fuel can come in contact with your vehicle’s hot components and spark a fire.
• Don’t toss lit cigarettes, or any flammable materials, out your vehicle’s window.
• Extinguish all smoking materials completely and never in dry grass.
• Secure chains and make sure they aren’t dragging. That can cause sparks.

Maintain your car and carry the right equipment  

• Maintain proper tire pressure as driving on rims will throw off sparks.
• Prevent vehicle fires by having your vehicle serviced regularly by a professionally trained mechanic.
• Heat and electrical sparks that come into contact with leaking flammable car fluids can easily start a car fire.

There are tips on how to prevent wildfires on the Oregon Department of Forestry’s website.

You can find more tips on how to prepare your car for road trips at Ready,gov/car or check out Be 2 Weeks Ready to help build your self-reliance and community preparedness.  

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_____________________________________________________________________________

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. 

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) seeks volunteers to join an advisory committee to help develop a new option for in-home services. This option will be called Agency with Choice and will launch in 2026.

Through Agency with Choice, older adults and people with disabilities who receive Medicaid-funded long-term services and supports may choose to work with a new type of agency to hire a direct-care worker. This new type of agency will help individuals hire an in-home care provider, complete all the required paperwork, train the provider and pay them. 

Planning for the 2026 launch of Agency with Choice is underway. To support planning efforts, the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities is seeking volunteers to join the Consumer Advisory Committee on Agency with Choice to help guide the creation of the program. This committee will include individuals who receive Medicaid in-home services and will meet virtually every month.

ODHS is looking for volunteers to serve on the committee who:

• Currently receive Medicaid in-home services from a homecare worker, personal care attendant, or in-home care agency or have received these services in the past;
• Are older adults or adults with a physical disability or behavioral health need;
• Understand the value and potential benefits of in-home services;
• Have reliable internet or phone service for virtual meetings (no travel necessary);
• Will actively participate in discussions and provide feedback; and
• Will be able to consider the needs of all people who receive in-home help.

As many as 15 people will be selected for the committee to represent all parts of the state. People who are interested in joining may apply online at https://forms.office.com/g/JjW1hd5viY.

Applications must be submitted by August 5, 2024, to be considered for membership in the committee. For help completing the application or to ask a question, please send an email to: AWC.Info@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

How to get more information

If you want to learn more about Agency with Choice, please see the “initiatives and outreach” section on our web page: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/agency/Pages/apd.aspx. Information will be added as it is available.

Salem, Ore. – As wildfires continue to burn throughout the state and extreme weather events impact communities, Oregon residents are reminded to be prepared for potential power outages. Wildfires and extreme weather can cause power outages, and weather and other conditions in specific geographies may cause electric utilities to adjust system settings, which can result in more frequent and longer outages, or even in certain cases, implement public safety power shutoffs (PSPS). A PSPS is a safety measure designed to help protect people and communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might result in wildfires. Utilities may also need to deenergize lines to protect equipment from nearby fires, or to protect personnel fighting fires.

Be prepared in advance 

Prepare your home and businesses in the event a wildfire or weather incident leads to a power outage. 

• Be two weeks ready – Gather food, medical supplies, batteries, pet supplies, among other things, needed by family members during an outage or evacuation for up to two weeks. Learn more about what supplies to consider. 
• For individuals with a medical condition that requires power, contact your electricity service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. This certification provides added benefits and helps the utility ensure they meet your needs in the event of an outage. 
• Make sure your utility service provider has current contact information to receive notifications by updating your account online. If uncertain which electric utility serves your area, visit https://www.oregon.gov/energy/energy-oregon/pages/find-your-utility.aspx.
• Keep cell phones fully charged in anticipation of an outage. Consider a car-charger for cell phones and other electronic devices.
• Plan for livestock water needs in the event well pumps lose power.
• Have a plan to relocate to an alternative location for power needs, or if you can, consider a backup generator.

During a power outage

• Avoid downed power lines, including anything near downed lines, at all costs.
• Stay clear of fire personnel and utility crews working to restore service in your community. 
• Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for emergency lighting. Do not use candles or other potential fire hazards. 
• Turn off lights and unplug electric appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer to help avoid a surge to the system when service is restored. After turning off all the lights, turn one light on to know when power has been restored. 
• Use generators safely – Do not run the generator inside the home or garage or anywhere near a window or vent, as these spaces can capture deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Learn more about proper use of a generator to avoid hazardous conditions. 
• Check on elderly neighbors or individuals with special needs who might need additional assistance.
• Call your electricity service provider to report an outage, do not call 911.

Natural gas tips

• If required to evacuate, no need to shut off natural gas.
• If natural gas appliances do not operate properly once electricity is restored, call your natural gas service provider. 
• If natural gas service is shut off, do not turn on yourself. Call your natural gas service provider to restore service. 
• If you smell natural gas, evacuate immediately and call 911. 

Stay informed

• Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts and messages.
• Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system. Provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts. 
• Before traveling visit Trip Check for details on road closures and conditions.
• Check air quality in Oregon.
• Visit State of Oregon Fires Dashboard.

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Salem, Ore.—July 25, 2024 — If you are traveling by car this summer, especially if you are headed to Eastern Oregon, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) are encouraging you to be fire safe and prepared.

The 2024 wildfire season is shaping up to be one for the record books. With Govenor Tina Kotek invoking the Emergency Conflagration Act for Durkee and Battle Mountain Complex Fires, there are now three large complex fires burning through acres of land east of the Cascades. Fire officials and OEM are asking people to take every precaution possible to avoid adding to the problem.

While you are packing and preparing to take off and explore our state, it’s important to stay up to date on road closures with Tripcheck.com; connect with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) about campfire restrictions; and make sure you have emergency supplies in case you get stranded.

Here is a list of items to consider for a basic emergency car kit:

• Jumper cables
• Flares or reflective triangle
• Car cell phone charger
• Blanket
• Map
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help if the air is smokey or dusty
• Plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape to shelter in place if needed
• Wet wipes, garbage bags, toilet paper and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Printed maps of the local area in case you lose service
• Cell phone and a backup charger
• Cash
• A fire extinguisher you know how to use

Finally, pack extra water and snacks in case you get stuck for a while.

In addition to packing an emergency kit, ODOT wants to remind travelers to check Tripcheck.com and check conditions for your route. It is also important to make sure your car is tuned up, has plenty of gas and the tires are in good condition.

Here are more tips to be a fire safe traveler:  

• When pulling off the road, stay on paved surfaces when possible.
• Avoid the side of the road where dry grass and other fuel can come in contact with your vehicle’s hot components and spark a fire.
• Don’t toss lit cigarettes, or any flammable materials, out your vehicle’s window.
• Extinguish all smoking materials completely and never in dry grass.
• Secure chains and make sure they aren’t dragging. That can cause sparks.

Maintain your car and carry the right equipment  

• Maintain proper tire pressure as driving on rims will throw off sparks.
• Prevent vehicle fires by having your vehicle serviced regularly by a professionally trained mechanic.
• Heat and electrical sparks that come into contact with leaking flammable car fluids can easily start a car fire.

There are tips on how to prevent wildfires on the Oregon Department of Forestry’s website.

You can find more tips on how to prepare your car for road trips at Ready,gov/car or check out Be 2 Weeks Ready to help build your self-reliance and community preparedness.  

###

_____________________________________________________________________________

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. 

July 25, 2024

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for McKay Reservoir July 25

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued July 3 for McKay Reservoir in Umatilla County.

Water monitoring has confirmed cyanotoxins levels in McKay Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for both people and dogs.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Be aware that only a fraction of waterbodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people and especially small children and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving behind the toxins released. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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Salem – With wildfires raging across the state, the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) wants to make sure people are taken care of in the event of a catastrophe and warned of those who may want to take advantage of a vulnerable situation.

One of those ways is through an assignment of benefits (AOB) agreement, which is a contract between a homeowner and a third party that transfers the insurance claim rights or benefits in an insurance policy to the third party. This allows the third party, which is typically a contractor, plumber, roofer, or other construction professional, to file the claim, make decisions about home repairs, and collect insurance payments without involving the homeowner. 

DFR stresses that you are not required to enter an AOB with a third party to have repairs done – you can file a claim directly to your insurance company.

An AOB can be a useful tool for getting repairs done, as it allows the repair company to deal directly with an insurance company when negotiating repairs. It also allows the insurer to pay the repair company directly. However, an AOB is a legal contract, so policyholders need to understand the rights they are signing away and make sure the repair company is trustworthy. Here are some reminders: 

• With an AOB, the third party, like a roofing company or plumber, may file your claim, make repair decisions, and collect insurance payments without your involvement. They can also sue your insurer, and you can lose your right to mediation. 
• Once you have signed an AOB, your insurer only communicates with the third party.
• It is possible the third party may demand a higher claim payment than the insurer offers and then sue the insurer when it denies the claim.

“It is important for homeowners to know their rights and understand what they are agreeing to with an assignment of benefits,” said Andrew R. Stolfi, Oregon insurance commissioner and director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. “Importantly, you are signing away your right to control many decisions related to the repair of your home. While this arrangement can be a good thing with the right contractor, it can result in a headache if it ends up in the wrong hands.”

DFR reminds homeowners to be diligent and alert for fraud. Home repair fraud is common after a natural disaster, and some contractors may prey on victims in hopes of making a quick buck. It is usually a good idea to do business with local businesses or trusted companies. Check references and talk to your friends and family. You should also always confirm that a contractor is licensed in the state of Oregon. Your insurance company may also have recommendations, and you should get more than one bid for your repairs. 

Anyone who has questions or feels they may have been taken advantage of can always contact one of our consumer advocates at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or through email at .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. 

For more information about AOB agreements, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners offers additional resources and information. DFR also has resources on understanding homeowners insurance and other insurance tips, including a brochure designed to help homeowners avoid disaster scams.

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

The 2024 Benton County Fair & Rodeo starts July 31 through Aug. 3, and this year's Fair and Rodeo Queen, Naomi Bailey, will be sharing the spotlight with her remarkable Mustang, Ochoco. Naomi, from Newberg and an Oregon State University student, trained Ochoco through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge, a competition that challenges young trainers to tame wild horses. Their journey, filled with dedication and mutual respect, will be on full display during the rodeo's halftime show.

Check out this video with Naomi and Ochoco: Meet Naomi Bailey, Your 2024 Benton County Fair & Rodeo Queen! (youtube.com)

Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge is a 100-day training competition that challenges young trainers to tame wild horses and burros. Participants, like Naomi, invest time, dedication, and heart into transforming these animals from the wild into loyal and dependable companions. The program concludes with a live auction where the trained Mustangs and burros are adopted, ensuring continued care and management. This initiative not only promotes the humane treatment of wild horses but also showcases the incredible trainability and versatility of the Mustang breed.

Naomi’s journey with Ochoco began in May 2021, when she was selected among many applicants to participate in the program. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) rounds up the herds, and teens like Naomi are given the chance to train these impressive animals. Naomi says her scientific background and lifelong passion for horses made her an ideal candidate for the program.

“Mustangs are incredibly important to me,” Naomi said. “They were introduced by the Spanish, and with no natural predators left, they’ve overpopulated. Training and domesticating them is a way to save the species and allow them to be loved by the public. Ochoco is the coolest horse. He’s been broke for less than a year, and the bond we’ve created is like no other. He tries so hard for me, and that bond is something truly special.”

Naomi and Ochoco’s bond will be displayed during the Benton County Fair and Rodeo. They will perform during the rodeo's halftime show on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, showcasing the remarkable qualities of her Mustang. Ochoco, with his versatility and emotional connection to Naomi, will demonstrate why Mustangs make exceptional companions.

The Teens and Oregon Mustangs program has gained recognition and support through social media and other platforms, helping raise awareness and funds, and Naomi said donations are crucial to the program’s mission of promoting humane treatment and management of wild horses and burros.

Ochoco shows the success of the program. From wild horse to rodeo performer, his journey reflects the dedication and passion of trainers like Naomi. 

“I’ve always loved horses,” Naomi said. “Being part of this program and working with Ochoco has been an incredible experience. The bond you can create with a Mustang is unparalleled. They are a clean slate and connect deeply with their handler.”

Naomi’s journey with Ochoco doesn’t end at the Benton County Fair. Her ultimate goal is to become Miss Rodeo Oregon, continuing to promote the welfare of Mustangs and the Teens and Oregon Mustangs program.

For more information about the program and how you can support their mission, visit Teens and Oregon Mustangs.

Join Naomi and Ochoco at the Benton County Fair and Rodeo to witness their remarkable bond and the incredible potential of Mustangs.

Benton County Fair & Rodeo tickets are on sale now at www.bentoncountyfair.net. All rodeos and concerts are included with the price of admission.

View Photos of Naomi and Ochoco.

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Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco pause for a photo at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco pause for a photo at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco prepare for a photo and video shoot at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

While you tune in to watch sports over the next two weeks, consider: The arena is not that different from a workplace. 

SAIF, Oregon’s not-for-profit workers’ comp insurance company, released a series of short videos comparing athletic competition to workplace safety. The videos focus on five key areas of injury prevention, and what we can learn from the world’s best athletes. 

The videos include tips from SAIF safety management consultants, as well as from SAIF policyholder Gallagher Fitness Resources in Salem. Read more about Gallagher Fitness Resources.  

“For athletes, an injury can keep them from competition and everything they’ve been working for,” said Tom Melendy, safety and health supervisor at SAIF. “Getting injured on the job can mean a lengthy recovery and challenges outside of work.” 

Luckily, SAIF has resources at saif.com/sports to prevent injuries in any workplace: 

• Prevent repetitive motion injuries: Whether you’re on the water or at your job
• Proper lifting techniques: Whether you’re lifting weights or lifting boxes
• Hydration: Whether you’re running a race or on the job
• Fall protection: Whether you’re climbing a wall or up high on a job 
• Personal protective equipment: Whether you’re facing an opponent or on the job site

View all five videos, tips, and free safety resources at saif.com/sports. 

Find more information, including additional free safety resources, at saif.com/safetyandhealth.

About SAIF

SAIF is Oregon's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurance company. Since 1914, we've been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.

July 25, 2024

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459, timothy.heider@oha.oregon.gov

OHA appoints Dr. Ahmed Farag as new dental director

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today announced the appointment of Dr. Ahmed Farag as its new dental director.

Dr. Farag has served in numerous leadership roles, most recently as executive medical director at Rochester Regional Health in western New York, an integrated health system with over 550 health care locations, nine hospitals and 16 federally qualified health centers.

Dr. Farag has a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Rochester’s Simon Business School and is pursuing a remote doctorate degree at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

He has also received an American Dental Association fellowship in diversity in leadership through the American College for Healthcare Executives.

Among other responsibilities, OHA’s dental director will provide expertise for OHA’s dental services program, including dental services offered through Medicaid as part of the Oregon Health Plan.

“Dr. Farag brings a wealth of national and international professional experience and an abiding commitment to providing high quality health services,” said OHA’s Deputy Medicaid Director Vivian Levy.

“We welcome his diverse expertise and look forward to working with him to promote health equity, assure patient well-being, and join Oregon clinicians in their commitment to improving oral health outcomes,” Levy said.

Dr. Farag will become a member of the Oregon Health Plan leadership team. He will assume his new role in Oregon Sept. 3.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Deschutes County, Oregon sex offender with a prior felony conviction for encouraging child sex abuse was sentenced to federal prison today after he requested a sexually explicit image online from an individual he thought was a 14-year-old girl.

Roger Clint Lee Vanwormer, 30, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison and a life term of supervised release.

According to court documents, while on supervision and wearing an ankle monitor, Vanwormer requested a sexually explicit image online from an individual he thought was a 14-year-old girl. Vanwormer further engaged in explicit discussions with the purported minor and arranged to meet. On July 27, 2021, Vanwormer was arrested in Bend when he showed up at the arranged meeting location.

On February 17, 2022, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a three-count indictment charging Vanwormer with attempted sexual exploitation of a child, attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, and commission of a felony involving a minor by a registered sex offender. Vanwormer pleaded guilty to one count of attempted sexual exploitation of a child.

This case was investigated by the Bend Police Department with assistance from the FBI. It was prosecuted by Jeffrey S. Sweet, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at (503) 224-4181 or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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July 25, 2024

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Turner Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued July 18 for Turner Lake in Marion County.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Turner Lake are below recreational guideline values for both people and dogs.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Be aware that only a fraction of waterbodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people and especially small children and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving behind the toxins released. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) finalized its Annual Operations Plans (AOP) that describe the variety of projects planned for state forests for the 2025 fiscal year.  These include planned timber sales for each district; recreation projects, such as the installation of a bridge; or other types of forest projects, such as stream enhancement or restoration projects. ODF received 1,061 written comments during the 45-public comment period that was open from April 3-May 17.

“We thank an engaged public for robust feedback representing many diverse perspectives,” said Nick Palazzotto, ODF’s State Forests Division Deputy Chief.  “It is challenging to balance the department’s legal obligation to manage state forests for social, economic and environmental outcomes—a concept referred to as Greatest Permanent Value.”

State forests provide outdoor recreation, education and interpretation opportunities; sustainable harvest volumes that produce jobs and revenue that funds vital services in rural counties; clean water; and critical fish and wildlife habitats. The majority of timber sales are on Board of Forestry lands, and approximately two thirds of the resulting revenue is split with the counties, who share it further with special districts. Together, the counties and special districts utilize this revenue to support local schools and provide other essential community services. ODF retains one third of the revenue to fund management of state forests. A small portion of the timber sales are located on Common School Forest Lands and generate revenue for the Common School Fund.

Some comments resulted in edits to specific timber sales while others are addressed in a high-level summary of the comments received highlighting the major themes, topics, and agency responses. 

“We read and consider every comment,” said Palazzotto.  “However, we do not respond to each one individually. Instead, we develop a summary document with broad categories that capture the comments and provides our responses to the public commentary.”

The summary document is broken down into the following sections: 

• Recreation
• Climate Change and Carbon
• Timber Harvest
• Aquatic, Wildlife, and Plant
• Roads, Slopes and Water Quality
• Specific Sales
• Process and Document Improvement
• Out of Scope

The FY25 Annual Operations Summary Documents are available for  ODF’s  Astoria, Forest Grove, Klamath-Lake, North Cascade, Tillamook, West Oregon and Western Lane districts.  These are located on the same webpage as the summary of comments and agency response document.

“Since we manage the forests for the Greatest Permanent Value, we have to consider how our decisions impact Oregonians overall, not just a single commenter,” said Palazzotto. “So even though we made changes to some sales, not everyone will be satisfied with those changes.  We recognize that and seek to be as transparent as possible in our decisions. We had more than a thousand comments this year, so we know Oregonians care about their forests.  Even with this already high interest ODF will strive to continue to improve communications with landowners, neighbors and concerned citizens to raise awareness of our AOP process and how they can connect with us to have their concerns heard.”

Date: July 25, 2024

Case #: 2024-00041742

Incident: Two in custody after Saturday vehicle arson 

Date / Time of Incident: July 20, 2024 / 11:10 p.m.

Location: SE Fourth and Roosevelt streets, Bend

Arrested: Cindiy Kay Kusmider, 44-year-old Bend resident
Offenses: Arson I, Criminal Mischief I, Coercion, Menacing

Arrested: Nathaniel Ryan Tatom, 37-year-old Bend resident
Offenses: Arson I, Criminal Mischief I, Coercion, Menacing 

At approximately 11:10 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, Bend Police responded to a report of a vehicle fire in the area of SE Fourth Street and SE Roosevelt Street. When officers arrived, they found a black Toyota Yaris with the passenger compartment and trunk area engulfed in flames. Officers extinguished the flames with assistance from Bend Fire. 

An investigation found that Nathaniel Tatom and Cindiy Kay Kusmider had shown up to the vehicle at about 11 p.m. to confront the vehicle’s owner, who was Tatom’s former roommate. The owner, who was sleeping in the vehicle at the time, reported that Kusmider smashed the driver’s side window of the Yaris with a baseball bat before pouring a clear liquid on the car. The car ignited in flames while the victim was inside, but the victim escaped with no injuries.  

Bend Fire investigators determined the fire was human-caused and not the result of any mechanical failure of the vehicle. 

Tatom and Kusmider fled the scene. 

On Wednesday, officers served a search warrant at Tatom’s home and vehicle in the 2600 block of Forum Drive. 

Tatom and Kusmider were taken into custody. Tatom was transported to the Deschutes County Jail on the above charges. Kusmider, who also has two warrants, reported she had ingested drugs, so she was transported to St. Charles Bend. At approximately 5:37 a.m. on Thursday, Kusmider walked out of the hospital. Officers found her in the area of NE Watt Way and Mary Rose Place, and she was returned to the hospital. She will be transported to the Deschutes County Jail on the above charges once cleared. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Portland, ORE, July 25, 2024] — Residents of Oregon and SW Washington are in the middle of a busy wildfire season as the climate crisis threatens to upend more communities. The American Red Cross Cascades Region opened our first shelter in La Pine on June 25^th due to the Darlene 3 Fire and we have not stopped since. We are currently operating in 4 different locations in our region plus we are helping support or neighboring Red Cross regions in Washington, Idaho and Montana. 

“This is part of a nationwide trend where natural disasters are becoming more frequent and intense. In 2023, an estimated 2.5 million were forced from their homes by weather-related disasters— with more than a third displaced for longer than a month,” says Red Cross Cascades CEO Priscilla Fuentes.

The best defense in an emergency is to be prepared and the American Red Cross, Cascades Region advises everyone to get ready now.

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR HOUSEHOLD 

• Build an emergency kit. Stock it with bottled water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and battery-powered radio. Also include medications, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers and emergency contact information. If you have pets or kids, consider packing items for them. 
• Make an evacuation plan.  What will you do if you are separated from your family during an emergency? Where will you go and where will you meet? Know evacuation routes in your community and make sure you have gas in your car. 
• Know how to stay informed.  Watch the local news, follow first responders on social media, check the websites of emergency managers, transportation agencies, and law enforcement to learn how you can receive evacuation orders and evacuate safely.
• Plus, download the free Red Cross Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and more safety tips. Choose whether you want to view the content in English or Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find these and all the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

PAY ATTENTION TO EVACUATION ORDERS:

Level 1-Be Ready

Level 2-Get Set

Level 3-Go Now

• Follow evacuation guidelines set by emergency managers. Level 3 evacuations mean “GO NOW.” Don’t hesitate to leave when instructed.
• If you are elderly or have access and functional limitations, consider leaving during a level 2 “GET SET” evacuation.
• Be aware of road closures so you know how to leave the affected area safely. 
• Make sure you have gas in your car in case you must leave. 
• Bring masks or other devices to help protect you from wildfire smoke.

WHO ARE WE HELPING?

 Everyone is welcome in our shelters, and we are hearing incredible stories like this one from Marc Berry.  Read more HERE.

VOLUNTEER TODAY The Red Cross is seeking new volunteers who are team-oriented and want to make an immediate difference. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to sign up. Free online training will be provided. 

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media. 

July 25, 2024

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA marks 100^th water treatment system installation milestone

OHA, partners continue efforts to protect families with high levels of nitrate in domestic well water

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and partner organizations have recorded more than 100 free water treatment systems installed in households in the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area, or LUBGWMA. As of June 30, OHA’s vendors had installed 111 systems and are working to install additional systems to help address high levels of nitrate in some domestic wells.  

The LUBGWMA spans northern Morrow County and northwestern Umatilla County and was designated by the state due to high nitrate in groundwater that supplies domestic wells.

Nitrate in well water is a potential health hazard, and nitrate levels above 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L) are considered dangerous for human consumption. Pregnant people and babies face the greatest risk. The state has offered free laboratory tests of well water to LUBGWMA residents since 2023.

Residents are encouraged to continue testing their domestic wells’ nitrate levels. OHA recently announced a retesting effort to ensure that households near the 10 mg/L limit are monitored.

Households with a nitrate test result above 10 mg/L are eligible for free water delivery. For households whose well water tests higher than 10 mg/L but below 25 mg/L, the state will also provide free installation and maintenance of one in-home reverse-osmosis system. OHA requires that systems be certified to reduce nitrate levels to safe for drinking. There are no kitchen-tap treatment systems certified to remove nitrate at levels above 25 mg/L.

State rules require treatment systems be installed by licensed plumbers.  OHA’s vendors go beyond installing treatment systems and provide ongoing maintenance and replacement of filters. Vendors also collect a water sample for laboratory analysis of the water from the tap after installation, to guarantee that the water is safe for consumption.

“We are grateful to the plumbers who have helped us reach this milestone and we continue to look for ways to install these systems at a faster pace,” said Gabriela Goldfarb, OHA Environmental Public Health section manager. “We appreciate the patience of residents who are waiting to get their treatment system and we know the wait is not easy.”

Questions? Contact the OHA Domestic Well Safety Program at Domestic.Wells@odhsoha.oregon.gov or call 541-952-9254 and visit testmywell.oregon.gov to learn about free safe water services for residents of northern Morrow County and northwestern Umatilla County.

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Bend Police Department’s National Night Out will take place at Bear Creek Elementary

The Bend Police Department will host its National Night Out at Bear Creek Elementary School from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

The event was originally slated to take place at Bend High, but that location is no longer available due to the school district’s recent announcement that it must begin demolishing the school’s auditorium.  

Instead, Bend Police hope you’ll join us for the festivities at Bear Creek Elementary School, 51 NE 13^th Street, Bend. 

The event, Bend’s community night out, is part of a nationwide program designed to foster strong relationships between the community and law enforcement. 

This family-friendly, completely free event will feature tons of fun and free treats. A DJ will be spinning tunes and a variety of vehicles will be on display for kids and adults alike to check out, including a Bend Police patrol car, the police BearCat and a fire engine. You'll find police officers dishing out hot dogs and other treats, as well as lawn games, facepainting and a bounce house. 

Throughout the evening, Bend Police will be on site to demonstrate its unmanned aerial systems (drones) and show off members of the K9 unit.  

This event would not be possible without our wonderful sponsors, BASX, City of Bend, Mid Oregon Credit Union, Safeway, St. Charles Health System, Boy Scouts of America – Crater Lake Council. 

Thanks as well to the following for their in-kind donations: Bend Fire & Rescue, Bend-La Pine Schools, Bigfoot Beverages, Eberhard’s Dairy, Franz Bakery, Kirby Nagelhout, Knife River, Kona Ice, Mt. Bachelor National Ski Patrol, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Oregon National Guard, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Walmart.

Keep up to date on other event updates here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1186562766104175 

WHAT: Bend Police National Night Out
WHEN: 4-8 p.m., Aug. 6
WHERE: Bear Creek Elementary School, 51 NE 13^th Street, Bend

Media Advisory is for scheduling purposes only

Embargoed until July 29, 2024

Please join us for a media roundtable on Monday (7/29) at 3:30pm at the Seaside Convention Center in Seaside, OR to discuss threat assessment in schools and communities throughout Oregon.

The FBI, Oregon Safety Resource Officers Association and Portland Police Bureau will be joined by Max Schachter, a national school safety advocate, whose son was killed in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in 2018. 

The panel will answer questions regarding threat assessments in schools and the community and will discuss the importance of partnerships of both school personnel, law enforcement and the public.

PANELISTS:

FBI Portland Assistant Special Agent in Charge Stephanie Shark, Moderator

FBI Portland Supervisory Special Agent Laura Monti, FBI Threat Assessment Group

OSROA 

Max Schachter, Safe Schools for Alex

Sgt. Hythum Ismail, Portland Police Bureau, Special Resources Division

WHEN:

Monday, July 29 at 3:30PM

WHERE:

Seaside Civic & Convention Center

415 First Avenue, Seaside, OR 97138

WHY:

Research has found that mass shooters don’t just snap.

They spend time thinking about violence and they plan, prepare, and often share indicators before their attacks. This means there are opportunities to identify someone who is on a pathway to violence - and prevent their attack.

Studies have also proven that before most mass attacks, someone observed concerning behaviors that were signs the person was on a path to violence. The people who noticed were often friends, family, schoolmates, coworkers, or loved ones.

YOU may be in a unique position to observe these signs in someone you know. Educating yourself on what to look for can be the key to preventing an attack of mass violence in your community.

The FBI released a new awareness campaign earlier this month to identify common concerning behaviors early on: Prevent Mass Violence — FBI

Please RSVP to: tland@fbi.gov">media.portland@fbi.gov

More information about OSROA and the Oregon School Safety Conference 

Seaside, Oregon – July 29th, 2024 – As the new school year fast approaches, the Oregon School Resource Officers Association is providing school districts and educators across the state a 3-day training, providing information to enhance school safety across Oregon. The 20th Annual Oregon School Safety Conference is being held Sunday, July 28th through Wednesday, July 31st, 2024, at the Seaside Convention Center in Seaside, Oregon. 

The Oregon School Resource Officers Association, also known as OSROA, is committed to promoting current best school safety practices for school educators and School Resource Officers. With increased safety concerns and risk related behaviors impacting our students and staff the past couple of school years, it is crucial that we approach school safety collaboratively in order to best address the physical, mental and emotional needs of our students.

OSROA in partnership with school safety contributors, will be providing school safety education through conference presenters like Max Schachter, whose son was killed in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, FBI Portland Supervisory Special Agent Laura Monti, Courtney McCarthy, a Threat Assessment and Behavioral Specialist and Dr. Bernie James, a Law Professor at Pepperdine University speaking on the legal impacts to both schools and law enforcement. These are just a few of the many other presenters at the school safety conference.

OSROA would like to extend an invitation to our media partners in Oregon to come and see the collaborative efforts by both law enforcement and school educators to be the best they can be together for the safety and security of our children in our schools across the great State of Oregon.  OSROA will be hosting a panel discussion to discuss Threat Assessments in Schools and the importance of partnerships of both school personnel and law enforcement. This will be an opportunity to see the real work behind the scenes on how schools in Oregon are diligently working to keep our children safe. 

Message from [Rick Puente, OSROA Vice President]:

"We are excited to welcome students back to school and are dedicated to ensuring their safety," said Rick Puente, Vice President of the Oregon School Resource Officers Association. "By working and training together, we can be certain our approach, our best practices and our outcomes will be beneficial for all students and staff, thus creating a more safe and secure educational environment where our children can learn and thrive."

About Oregon School Resource Officers Association:

We exist to support law enforcement agencies and school districts in the State of Oregon, and to provide resources and training to help maintain a safer, healthier school environment for students, faculty and guests. We are committed to growing strong relationships between schools and local law enforcement with an emphasis on keeping the safety and best interest of our students our number one priority.

You can learn more about OSROA at its website: www.osroa.net   

The 2024 Benton County Fair & Rodeo starts July 31 through Aug. 3, and this year's Fair and Rodeo Queen, Naomi Bailey, will be sharing the spotlight with her remarkable Mustang, Ochoco. Naomi, from Newberg and an Oregon State University student, trained Ochoco through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge, a competition that challenges young trainers to tame wild horses. Their journey, filled with dedication and mutual respect, will be on full display during the rodeo's halftime show.

Check out this video with Naomi and Ochoco: Meet Naomi Bailey, Your 2024 Benton County Fair & Rodeo Queen! (youtube.com)

Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge is a 100-day training competition that challenges young trainers to tame wild horses and burros. Participants, like Naomi, invest time, dedication, and heart into transforming these animals from the wild into loyal and dependable companions. The program concludes with a live auction where the trained Mustangs and burros are adopted, ensuring continued care and management. This initiative not only promotes the humane treatment of wild horses but also showcases the incredible trainability and versatility of the Mustang breed.

Naomi’s journey with Ochoco began in May 2021, when she was selected among many applicants to participate in the program. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) rounds up the herds, and teens like Naomi are given the chance to train these impressive animals. Naomi says her scientific background and lifelong passion for horses made her an ideal candidate for the program.

“Mustangs are incredibly important to me,” Naomi said. “They were introduced by the Spanish, and with no natural predators left, they’ve overpopulated. Training and domesticating them is a way to save the species and allow them to be loved by the public. Ochoco is the coolest horse. He’s been broke for less than a year, and the bond we’ve created is like no other. He tries so hard for me, and that bond is something truly special.”

Naomi and Ochoco’s bond will be displayed during the Benton County Fair and Rodeo. They will perform during the rodeo's halftime show on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, showcasing the remarkable qualities of her Mustang. Ochoco, with his versatility and emotional connection to Naomi, will demonstrate why Mustangs make exceptional companions.

The Teens and Oregon Mustangs program has gained recognition and support through social media and other platforms, helping raise awareness and funds, and Naomi said donations are crucial to the program’s mission of promoting humane treatment and management of wild horses and burros.

Ochoco shows the success of the program. From wild horse to rodeo performer, his journey reflects the dedication and passion of trainers like Naomi. 

“I’ve always loved horses,” Naomi said. “Being part of this program and working with Ochoco has been an incredible experience. The bond you can create with a Mustang is unparalleled. They are a clean slate and connect deeply with their handler.”

Naomi’s journey with Ochoco doesn’t end at the Benton County Fair. Her ultimate goal is to become Miss Rodeo Oregon, continuing to promote the welfare of Mustangs and the Teens and Oregon Mustangs program.

For more information about the program and how you can support their mission, visit Teens and Oregon Mustangs.

Join Naomi and Ochoco at the Benton County Fair and Rodeo to witness their remarkable bond and the incredible potential of Mustangs.

Benton County Fair & Rodeo tickets are on sale now at www.bentoncountyfair.com. All rodeos and concerts are included with the price of admission.

View Photos of Naomi and Ochoco

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Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco pause for a photo at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco pause for a photo at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

Benton County Fair and Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey and her horse Ochoco prepare for a photo and video shoot at the Benton County Fairgrounds. Ochoco is a Mustang that Naomi adopted through the Teens and Oregon Mustangs, Mustang Adoption Challenge.

Bend Fire & Recuse was dispatched to a reported brush fire along the Deschutes River, just down stream of the 1^st Street Rapids. Witnesses saw smoke and flames at the bottom of the cliff behind the homes on NW Rivermist Dr. BPD officers arrived first and assisted locating the best access to the fire. The fire was quicky stopped and kept to an area of 30x50ft of brush on the flat areas near the river, luckily not spreading up the hill at all. 

USFS and ODF crews arrived to assist on the fire. Crews remained on scene for an hour ensuring the fire was completely extinguished. An old fallen tree was cut up to ensure it wasn’t smoldering before crews left. The fire is considered human caused but no specific cause was found. There were no signs of camping or encampments in the area. The trail through the fire area is heavily used by hikers and swimmers. A carelessly disposed of cigarette or other hot ashes can’t be ruled out as a cause. 

This fire highlighted a reminder to ensure you have good defensible space around your home, even if you live in the center of town. Piles of dry yard debris, thick brush and wood piles near decks were noted around homes near this fire. If an ember had come up the hill from this fire it could have easily ignited the dry vegetation and spread the fire to homes. More information about how to create that defensible space can be found at www.bendoregon.gov/own-your-zone.

Bend Fire & Recuse was dispatched to a reported brush fire along the Deschutes River, just down stream of the 1^st Street Rapids. Witnesses saw smoke and flames at the bottom of the cliff behind the homes on NW Rivermist Dr. BPD officers arrived first and assisted locating the best access to the fire. The fire was quicky stopped and kept to an area of 30x50ft of brush on the flat areas near the river, luckily not spreading up the hill at all. 

USFS and ODF crews arrived to assist on the fire. Crews remained on scene for an hour ensuring the fire was completely extinguished. An old fallen tree was cut up to ensure it wasn’t smoldering before crews left. The fire is considered human caused but no specific cause was found. There were no signs of camping or encampments in the area. The trail through the fire area is heavily used by hikers and swimmers. A carelessly disposed of cigarette or other hot ashes can’t be ruled out as a cause. 

This fire highlighted a reminder to ensure you have good defensible space around your home, even if you live in the center of town. Piles of dry yard debris, thick brush and wood piles near decks were noted around homes near this fire. If an ember had come up the hill from this fire it could have easily ignited the dry vegetation and spread the fire to homes. More information about how to create that defensible space can be found at www.bendoregon.gov/own-your-zone.

Correction/Clarification: Media can post/publish/share the daily ODF situation reports. The ask to not share or publish was meant to be about the media alert itself. We apologize for the confusion. 

With the Regional Preparedness Level and ODF Fire Activity Level at 5, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) will begin to send out Daily Situation Reports via GovDelivery in the afternoon. The reports will include information on ODF incident management teams, what fires the agency is prioritizing, district highlights, and other pertinent information. 

These reports will be published daily on ODFfire.com and on ODF’s Statewide Facebook page if you would like to guide people to it.  The public can also sign up through GovDelivery to receive these reports. 

If you have follow-up or clarifying questions, please reach out to jessica.neujahr@odf.oregon.gov.  

Details: Click to subscribe through GovDelivery to receive these reports daily. 

Polk County, Ore. 23 July 24- On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at 6:17 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to two-vehicle crash on Hwy-22W, near milepost 20, in Polk County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Chrysler Sebring, operated by Mary Louise Nathe (73) of Salem, attempted to turn left onto Oak Grove Road and entered the path of a westbound Ford Expedition, operated by Karen Jean Bell-Stanerson (53) of Salem. The Ford struck the passenger side of the Chrysler in a side-impact collision.

A passenger in the Chrysler, Amanda Rose Nathe (41) of Salem, was declared deceased at the scene. The operator of the Chrysler (M. Nathe) was seriously injured and transported to a local hospital.

The operator of the Ford (Bell-Stanerson) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. An unsafe turn is considered the primary cause of the crash.

OSP was assisted by Dallas Fire, Polk County Fire, and ODOT.

# # # 

About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

Clatsop County, Ore 23 July 24- On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at 5:20 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-101, near milepost 15, in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Dodge Dakota, operated by Thoren Poole (33) of Seaside, entered the northbound lane for unknown reasons and struck a Ford F450, operated by Jeremy Townsend (50) of Warrenton, head-on. 

The operator of the Dodge (Poole) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford (Townsend) was seriously injured and transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The highway was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by Gearhart Fire, Clatsop County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT.

# # # 

About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

July 24, 2024

Media contacts:

Erica Heartquist, Oregon Health Authority, ica.J.Heartquist@oha.oregon.gov">Erica.J.Heartquist@oha.oregon.gov,  503-871-8843

Jake Sunderland, Oregon Department of Human Services, land@odhs.oregon.gov">Jake.Sunderland@odhs.oregon.gov, 503-877-0170

Study shows Oregon Medicaid renewal rate highest in nation

SALEM, Ore. —Oregon has the highest rate in the nation for Medicaid renewals since the lifting of the COVID-related continuous enrollment requirement in March 2023, according to a Georgetown study.

With 92 percent of the state’s nearly 1.5 million renewals complete, more than four out of five Oregonians are keeping their Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or other Medicaid benefits.

(Source: Georgetown University McCourt School of Public Policy study published July 14, 2024)

Six reasons Oregon is doing well with Medicaid renewals

OHP Bridge

OHP Bridge, a new category of OHP with higher income limits, launched July 1. Since the unwinding of the pandemic emergency began, people likely to be eligible for OHP Bridge kept their OHP. To date, 22,784 people have moved to OHP Bridge.

Sequencing

Oregon intentionally scheduled renewals for people who were more likely to keep benefits and needed minimal support to complete the process upfront. State employees put certain renewals such as likely OHP Bridge members later in the schedule and spread more complex renewals throughout the process to ensure support was consistently available. 

Longer timelines

Oregon gave people longer to respond before closing benefits than any other state in the nation. In Oregon, people have up to 90 days to respond and 60 days’ advance notice of any closure. People who did not respond can also reopen their case up to 90 days after closing. 

Outreach

Oregon has a robust network of community partners across the state, and tools like earned media and paid advertising were used to spread awareness of the renewal process. 

Maximizing automated renewals

When members’ eligibility information can be verified using federal data matching sources without needing the member to respond, they can be automatically renewed. This minimizes the chances for closures due to nonresponse, reduces the paperwork burden on members and preserves staff capacity to help the remaining people.  To date, Oregon’s monthly news release on renewals has used KFF data, which continues to show Oregon in third place. The Georgetown ranking shows Oregon among the top states reducing paperwork via the automated renewal process.

Rules protecting coverage between renewals

Oregon is unique in giving most adults a two-year continuous eligibility period where they will keep their medical benefits until their next renewal, even if something like income changes would no longer qualify them for benefits. Oregon also offers young children benefits until their sixth birthday. These rules do not directly affect renewal rate but prevent “churn” on and off benefits between renewals.

July OHP renewal data

As of July 19, 1,347,208 people have completed the renewal process. This represents around 92.7 percent of all OHP and Medicaid members.

• 1,114,627 people (82.7 percent) were renewed and kept their benefits.
• 221,260 people (16.4 percent) were found ineligible.
• 11,321 people (0.8 percent) had a reduction in their benefits. Most of these members lost full OHP but were able to continue Medicare Savings Programs that help pay their Medicare costs.

Although most people are keeping coverage during the post-pandemic medical renewals, approximately 232,000 people have or will need to consider other coverage options due to lost or reduced benefits.

• People who do not have coverage through an employer or Medicare may be able to enroll through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace and get financial help. Most people who enroll through HealthCare.gov qualify for this help.
• The Marketplace is sending information to people who are no longer eligible for OHP benefits, advising of other potential coverage options.
• People who have recently lost OHP benefits can enroll anytime until Nov. 30, 2024, or within 60 days of their benefits ending.
• For more information and ways to get help signing up for Marketplace, Medicare or employer coverage, see “What to do if OHP is ending” below.

Need help renewing your benefits?

1. Learn more about how to renew your OHP coverage. You can log into your ONE Online account and complete your renewal at benefits.oregon.gov.
2. Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075. All relay calls are accepted, and help is available in multiple languages. Wait times are lowest between 7 and 8 a.m., Pacific Time.
3. Visit or call a local Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) office. People can find their local office at https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/Pages/office-finder.aspx.
4. Visit a community partner for free, in-person help. To find one near you visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp (English) or orhim.info/ayuda (Spanish).
5. Download the Oregon ONE Mobile app via the app store to keep track of your renewal, find a local office, or upload a document.

What to do if your OHP is ending:

• First, review the case summary in your letter to make sure the information used to make the decision was correct. If that information has changed, notify the state via one of the options above. If the information on file for you is correct and you disagree with the decision, you can request a hearing. Learn more about hearings.
• Explore options through an employer. If you, your spouse or a parent are working, you may be eligible for health coverage through that employer. Talk to your manager or Human Resources department to see if you qualify. You will have a special enrollment period to enroll mid-year due to loss of OHP benefits.
• If you have or are eligible for Medicare: For help understanding and choosing the right Medicare options, go to https://OregonHealthcare.gov/GetHelp to find an insurance agent or a counselor at the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance Program (SHIBA). You can also call SHIBA at 800-722-4134.

If you need to sign up for Medicare for the first time, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 800-772-1213 to enroll by phone or find a local office. You can also enroll in Medicare online at ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up.

• Nearly 80 percent of Oregonians qualify for financial help through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/WindowShop to answer a few quick questions, find out how much you can save and find out how much coverage may cost you. You can also call the Marketplace Transition Help Center at 833-699-6850 (toll-free, all relay calls accepted).
• Need free local help finding other coverage? Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp to find professional help near you.

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) are committed to transparency and will continue to send monthly information about medical coverage among Oregonians. Check our ONE Eligibility Operations Dashboards for more frequent updates on medical renewal data and wait times for callers to the ONE Customer Service Center.

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SALEM, Ore. – Over the last week, firefighters have been challenged by hot temperatures and gusty winds that continue to push several wildfires across the state. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is calling on all Oregonians and visitors to be aware of the critical fire danger and take steps to prevent sparking a wildfire. The eastern side of the state is expecting abundant lightning, winds gusting near 60 miles per hour with passing thunderstorms, and hot temperatures.

“We are working with every tool we have to protect people and property,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “The Oregon structural fire service, our out-of-state firefighters, and our wildland partners are working relentlessly around the clock. I want to say thank you. This is a monumental challenge that every firefighter and support staff is rising to.” 

The structural fire service response has been immense. The OSFM has mobilized 489 firefighters, roughly 143 engines, and 32 water tenders to protect communities across the state. 

The OSFM has resources assigned to: 

• Lone Rock/Boneyard Fire (Gilliam, Morrow, Grant, and Wheeler counties) 
• Falls Fire (Harney and Grant counties) 
• Durkee Fire (Baker and Malheur counties) 
• Battle Mountain Complex (Grant and Umatilla counties) 
• Microwave Tower Fire (Wasco County) 

The OSFM is continually monitoring capacity within the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System and is in contact with out-of-state partners to be ready to respond to new fires if resources are needed. When communities are threatened by wildfire, the Oregon State Fire Marshal provides structural protection resources and support. While the agency focuses on protecting people and property, it works in lockstep with wildland partners from the Oregon Department of Forestry, the Bureau of Land Management, tribal agencies, and the U.S. Forest Service. 

Roughly 90 people are a part of the OSFM’s three incident management teams currently mobilized. Since July 9, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked seven times. 

On Sunday, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Battle Mountain Complex in Grant and Umatilla counties. The move by Governor Tina Kotek allowed the OSFM to send firefighters and equipment to protect nearby communities.  

For updates on the fires the OSFM has resources assigned to, visit www.osfminfo.org. Learn more about wildfire prevention here. 

Information Resources 

• Lone Rock/Boneyard: InciWeb 
• Falls Fire: Facebook, InciWeb 
• Durkee Fire: Facebook, InciWeb 
• Battle Mountain Complex: Facebook, InciWeb 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

BEND, OR — Leath Tonino has been officially selected as the winner of the 10th annual Waterston Desert Writing Prize by guest judge and acclaimed Law and Order actor Sam Waterston.

Tonino’s winning submission, "Limbo Wilds: A Journey into the Wilderness Study Areas of the Desert,” captures a deep sense of introspection and urgency regarding wilderness conservation. Throughout the piece, the protagonist navigates conflicting desires between enjoying Utah’s Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and advocating for its protection in the face of legislative challenges.

The 10^th annual Waterston Desert Writing Prize ceremony celebrating Tonino and featuring author Tucker Malarkey will take place at the High Desert Museum on September 26, 2024. For tickets to the event, visit: highdesertmuseum.org/waterston-prize.

Malarkey, a nationally bestselling author known for critically acclaimed novels like An Obvious Enchantment and Resurrection, has ventured into nonfiction with Stronghold, a compelling narrative detailing one man's quest to preserve salmon habitats in both the U.S. and Russia. Stronghold received accolades as an editor's pick from prestigious publications including The New York Times, National Book Review, Outside and Forbes.

Tonino, a full-time freelance writer from Colorado, emphasizes that true desert literacy transcends mere knowledge of a place. Rather, he says that he embraces the complexities and mysteries of our environment. With a rich background in creative nonfiction, Tonino has contributed over 150 pieces to publications like Outside, Men’s Journal and High Country News, and is the author of several essay collections and a forthcoming book of nature poems.

Guest judge Sam Waterston, brother of Prize founder Ellen Waterston, called the piece “wonderfully original” in his comments, noting, “Like other little-visited and vulnerable parts of the planet, to those who don’t already know the answer, ‘Why the desert?’ can be the end of the conversation…the writer knows how to make it the beginning—how to invite us in.”

"We are honored to welcome our outstanding winner Leath Tonino and nationally bestselling author Tucker Malarkey to this year’s Waterston Desert Writing Prize ceremony," said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. "Their passionate exploration of the natural world aligns perfectly with the Prize’s mission to celebrate and elevate desert landscapes through the power of literary nonfiction."

The two finalists for this year’s Prize are Paige Buffington of Gallup, New Mexico and Charles Hood of Palmdale, Calif.

Buffington (Navajo) received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in creative writing from the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico in 2013 and a Master of Fine Arts with a focus in poetry in 2015. She’s won various writing awards for her poems.

Hood has spent his career working and living in the Mojave Desert and has won numerous awards for his poetry and nonfiction work. This is his fourth time as a Waterston Prize finalist.

The Waterston Desert Writing Prize, established in 2014 by author Ellen Waterston, honors literary nonfiction that celebrates desert landscapes. As the winner of this year’s prize, Tonino will receive a $3,000 cash award, a writing residency at Playa in Summer Lake, Oregon, and the reading and reception at the High Desert Museum on September 26, 2024. 

“The combination of Prize winner Leath Tonino, renowned author Tucker Malarkey, and my accomplished and wonderful actor brother Sam Waterston makes for a special 10th anniversary 2024 Awards ceremony. Sincere thanks to all three for their help in promoting the Prize and the literary arts in general,” said Prize founder Ellen Waterston. “To see how the Waterston Desert Writing Prize has evolved in 10 years couldn’t be more exciting.” 

In 2020, the High Desert Museum—which has long hosted events for the Prize—adopted the program. The mission and goals of the Prize complement those of the High Desert Museum, emphasizing the importance of protecting deserts and creating important conversations about the issues affecting them.

To learn more about the Waterston Desert Writing Prize and to purchase your tickets to the Waterston Desert Writing Prize Ceremony visit: highdesertmuseum.org/waterston-prize. The Waterston Desert Writing Prize is possible with support from The Source Weekly. 

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

The HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

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Pacific Power uses drones to monitor electrical equipment in rural Oregon and Southwest Washington

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018

Portland, Ore., (July 24, 2024) Pacific Power will use commercial drones designed for powerline inspections to take photos of Pacific Power’s assets to assist in mitigation of wildfire conditions and to improve system resilience. 

The drones will help Pacific Power conduct a series of inspections on various transmission, distribution and substation facilities using commercial drones designed for powerline inspections. 

Pacific Power began using the drones earlier this month in Southern Oregon and Northern California, and crews will also be using the equipment in additional locations.

Drones will be used to inspect facilities in rural areas north of Burns, Oregon, to the Idaho border, east of Roseburg, Oregon, and in the Lewis River area of Southern Washington beginning July 22 through August 16.

Drones capture high resolution photos and infrared images that help identify any potential defects or problems with equipment in need of repair. 

Pacific Power uses drones to help ensure our electrical system is safe and reliable for our customers.

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About Pacific Power

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

Salem, Ore. –  From soccer to surfing, fans will have more than 400 betting options through Oregon Lottery’s DraftKings Sportsbook for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, which begin on July 26. 

Betting options range from the number of medals for athletes and a country to whether a world record will be broken. Below are examples of wagers offered this year:

• Will one country win all medals in a sport?
• Which country will win the most gold medals? 
• In which sport will a country win its first gold medal?

Oregon Lottery debuted sports betting in October 2019 and since that time, wagers on Olympics have only been offered twice before. 

Some standout Oregonians are competing at the games: Jade Carey, a current Oregon State gymnast, will take her talents to Paris, along with Ryan Crouser of Boring, who holds a world record in shot put, and 18-year-old Magda Skarbonkiewicz, a former Jesuit High School student who will compete in fencing, among others. Portland Thorns forward Jainine Beckie and midfielder Jessie Fleming will compete for Canada on their quest for Olympic gold.

Oregon Lottery’s Sports Betting Products Manager Kerry Hemphill expects popular categories to be men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, and tennis.

“Because we’re in the off season for basketball and football, the summer months are typically slower for sports wagering,” she said. “We’re hoping to see a boost in interest thanks to U.S. Olympic stars.”

To play Oregon Lottery’s DraftKings Sportsbook or for more about the game, go to https://www.oregonlottery.org/sports/.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned nearly $15.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org. 

Date: July 23, 2024

Case #: 2024-00042313

Incident: One arrested for armed robbery of marijuana dispensary 

Date / Time of Incident: July 23, 2024 / 4:38 p.m. 

Location: Top Shelf Medicine, 800 block of NE Greenwood Avenue, Bend 

Arrested: Russell Ian Boggess, 41-year-old Bend resident 

Offenses: Attempted Murder, Robbery I, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Assault IV x2, Assault II, Harassment, Menacing x3, Interference with a 911 call, Felon in Possession of Firearm

A 41-year-old Bend man was arrested after robbing a marijuana dispensary with a handgun on Tuesday, July 23. 

Bend Police responded to Top Shelf Medicine in the 800 block of NE Greenwood Avenue at approximately 4:38 p.m. after an employee called 911 to report that she’d been struck in the face and threatened with a handgun before the suspect took a bag of marijuana and walked out the door. The suspect attempted to fire two shots at the employee, but the handgun malfunctioned.  

Other employees put the suspect, identified as Russell Boggess, into a headlock and held him until officers arrived less than a minute later. Two employees were injured while they restrained Boggess.

Boggess was taken into custody at 4:41 p.m. and officers used a wrap device to restrain him. He was transported to the Bend Police Department, then to St. Charles Bend. When he’s cleared at the hospital, he will be booked into the Deschutes County Jail on suspicion of the above charges. 

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) and Cycle Oregon will host a meeting 11 a.m. July 29 to discuss the proposed designation of the Aufderheide Scenic Bikeway, a 60-mile route that connects Highways 126 (McKenzie River) and 58 (Oakridge).

The meeting is open to the public. The agenda and link for the meeting is posted on the Scenic Bikeways website. 

Agenda: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/BWT/Documents/SB-Scenic%20Bikeway%20-%20Public%20Meeting%20Agenda-Aufderheide%20072924.pdf

Meeting registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_h0UZ0HFUSN-ODLTTf0Y3WQ#/registration

The Scenic Bikeways program was established in 2009 by Cycle Oregon, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Travel Oregon and the Oregon Department of Transportation. It now includes the state’s best 17 designated mostly-roadway bicycle routes to showcase Oregon’s breathtaking landscapes, cultural treasures and western hospitality. 

The program is currently managed under a partnership agreement between Cycle Oregon and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. 

The Scenic Bikeways is overseen by the Scenic Bikeway’s committee, an advisory group for the management and designation of routes nominated by the public for state scenic bikeways designation. Its members include citizen representatives, tourism organization, local governments and state agencies involved in bicycle recreation or transportation. 

For more information, contact Steve Schulz, Executive Director of Cycle Oregon at 503-381-4614 or steve@cycleoregon.com.

The Redmond Police Department (RPD) has fielded multiple calls today from citizens regrading an attempted scam. Each person stated they received a call from the Redmond Police Department’s business phone number. The person on the line represented themselves as a Redmond Police Officer and was attempting to obtain personal information from citizens. The caller is using the guise of a missed jury summons. 

Please know the Redmond Police Department is not calling citizens and soliciting personal information over the phone. NEVER give your banking or other financial information to anyone representing themselves as a Redmond Police Officer. If you have received this call and did give information over the phone, call your bank or financial institution immediately and report suspected fraud. 

If you’re ever skeptical regarding if you are speaking to a member of the Redmond Police Department you can confirm the members identity by calling our business line at 541-504-3400 or non-emergency dispatch at 541-693-6911. 

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support in finding Anna Gabriella Villarreal. She is a 15-year-old child in foster care who was last seen in Ontario on June 30. She was found July 23. 

Sometimes when a child is missing they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year. 

July 23, 2024

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Opioid Settlement Board directs $13 million to substance use disorder treatment infrastructure

State Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission recommended allocation, which OHA will administer

PORTLAND, Ore. – A $13.08 million allocation by the Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment & Recovery Board (Settlement Board) will expand and strengthen the state’s access to substance use disorder treatment and services through opioid treatment programs (OTPs) and jails.

The Board approved Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission (ADPC) recommendations July 10. The allocation, which Oregon Health Authority (OHA) will administer, will improve access to medication for opioid use disorder and treatment services by providing:

• Up to $3.9 million to fund:
  • Two mobile or non-mobile medication units in Clackamas County serving Oregon City and rural Clackamas County.
  • An opioid treatment program or a mobile or non-mobile medication unit in Multnomah County serving the geographic areas of the county with the highest unmet need.
• Up to $9.1 million to fund a total of seven opioid treatment programs or mobile or non-mobile medication units, specifically:
  • Two in Northeastern Oregon.
  • One in the Mid-Gorge region.
  • One in Klamath County.
  • Two in underserved coastal areas.
  • One in eastern Lane County.

To be eligible for funding, a mobile or non-mobile medication unit or an opioid treatment program must be currently certified by OHA.

• Up to $250,000 to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) to provide technical assistance to jails and to foster collaboration between opioid treatment providers and jails.

The funding was awarded to OHA, which will administer the allocations. The Board’s decision can be viewed in a recording of its July 10 meeting here.

Prior to awarding any funding, OHA must engage the partners listed in the ADPC proposal and provide a proposed timeline and implementation plan to the Board for approval no later than Sept. 1, 2024.

Since July 2021, the State of Oregon has reached agreement on national lawsuits against several companies for their role in the opioid crisis. Through these agreements, nearly $600 million will be awarded to Oregon over the course of 18 years. Settlement funds from opioid manufacturers, distributors and pharmacies are divided between the State of Oregon (45%) and local jurisdictions (55%).

The state’s share is deposited as it becomes available into the Opioid Settlement, Prevention, Treatment and Recovery (OSPTR) Fund. This fund is controlled by the 18-member OSPTR Board.

Local jurisdictions receiving settlement funds (those with populations greater than 10,000) decide how their funds are used. Cities and counties are required to report to the Oregon Department of Justice annually on how they have allocated their funds.

For state and local spending details from Fiscal Year 2022-2023, refer to the Oregon Opioid Settlement Spending Report: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREVENTIONWELLNESS/SUBSTANCEUSE/OPIOIDS/Documents/opioid-settlement-report-fy-22-23.pdf.

The OSPTR Board will next consider additional investments in emerging issues.

To learn more about Oregon’s opioid settlement funds, visit oregon.gov/opioidsettlement.

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SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) temporarily banned campfires at most Oregon State Parks due to dry conditions and the strain on firefighting resources from wildfires burning across the state. 

Campfires and open flames are banned at all parks east of the Cascades due to the low humidity and risk of wildfires. They’re also restricted at parks in high-risk areas across the state until conditions improve. Most bans impact parks east of the Cascades and in the valley with some restrictions at select coastal parks.

“We understand that campfires are an important part of the experience at Oregon State Parks. We don’t make the decision lightly to restrict the use of fire, but unfortunately conditions require that response. The decision is made in consultation with our local fire agencies. Thank you for helping us do our part to reduce the risk of any new wildfires,” said JR Collier, OPRD’s deputy of statewide operations.

Campfire restrictions generally ban all “open flame,” but often make exceptions for propane cooking as the flame is contained. Check individual park webpages for details on any restrictions before visiting. Restrictions are listed in alphabetical order in a feature story at stateparks.oregon.gov/ or on the individual park pages. 

OPRD also encourages visitors to know before they go when it comes to the impact of wildfires across the state:

• Several parks have been closed due to wildfires including Battle Mountain Forest State Scenic Corridor, Farewell Bend State Recreation Area, East and West Hatfield Trailheads on the Columbia River Highway State Trail and Ukiah-Dale Forest State Scenic Corridor. Check park webpages at stateparks.oregon.gov/ and search by park.
• Some parks have reduced air quality due to wildfire smoke. Check DEQ’s website for air quality information at www.oregonsmoke.org/
• Several roads and highways have been closed due to wildfires. Please use TripCheck to learn about closures and alternative routes. Relying on GPS might lead drivers into unsafe conditions

For more information about current wildfires around the state, go to the Oregon Department of Forestry’s website: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/firestats.aspx. 

For more information about wildfire prevention, please visit the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/osfm/education/pages/prevent-wildfires.aspx.

UPDATE July 23, 2024 12:40pm

Released by: Sergeant Nathan Garibay

Release Date: July 23, 2024

Location: Masten Road

After consultation with the Incident Commander of the Jackpine Fire, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is lowering all evacuation levels around the Jackpine Fire to Level 1: Be Ready. This includes the area west of Highway 97, south of Masten Rd., east of the Little Deschutes River to the county line.

UPDATE July 19, 2024 08:30pm

Avoid Highway 97 north of Highway 31 due to fire activity at the highway. North and southbound lanes are currently closed. Please use alternate routes due to the Jackpine Fire.

Klamath County Sheriff’s Office issued a Level 1: Be Ready for both sides of Hwy 97 south of the Deschutes County line including Long Prairie.

End of Update

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is on scene monitoring the Jackpine Fire on Masten Road. The following evacuation notice has been issued:

Level 2 Be Set: West of Highway 97 and South of Masten Rd. to the county line.

Find current evacuation areas at: deschutes.org/emergency

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, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with five K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves over 200,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 259 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 193 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

Redmond, OR - Tuesday, July 22, at 10:14 p.m., the Redmond Police Department along with Redmond Fire and Rescue responded to a motor vehicle accident near the intersection of NW Maple Avenue and NW 22^nd Street. The accident involved a Jeep sports utility vehicle and a Kawasaki motorcycle.  

The rider of the motorcycle, a 19-year-old Redmond man, was transported to St. Charles in Bend with life threatening injuries. The driver of the Jeep SUV, a 59-year-old Redmond man called 911 following the crash, remained on scene and was determined to be uninjured. The Oregon State Police also responded to assist by conducting a crash scene reconstruction. 

The Redmond Police Department would like to thank the Oregon State Police as well as the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, who responded to Redmond calls for service as the crash was being investigated. The investigation is ongoing as of today, and cause of the accident has not been determined. 

DEPOE BAY, Oregon— A virtual public hearing will be held 5:30 p.m. Aug. 14 to take public testimony on Ocean Shore Alteration Application number 3051 to build a riprap revetment west of SeaRidge Condominiums in Depoe Bay. 

The permit application requests to construct an approximately 600-foot-long riprap revetment on the Ocean Shore State Recreation Area west of the condominiums at 4175 N. Hwy 101 in Depoe Bay. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) regulates ocean shore activities including reviewing alteration permits.

The hearing includes an introduction by staff, and then the applicant will be provided an opportunity to clearly identify how the application substantially and factually includes information that demonstrates the proposal meets the review standard set forth in OAR 736-020-0003 through 736-020-0030. 

The public will then be provided an opportunity to present testimony.  Anyone wishing to testify must pre-register, each registered individual will be provided up to 3 minutes to testify. Within 45-days after the hearing, OPRD will make a permit decision. This decision will include consideration of public comment received during the public notice and this hearing.

Following OPRD’s initial evaluation of this application, it is not clear whether the proposal meets the applicable review standards. The Department must “determine if the granting of such permit would in any way be detrimental to the interests and safety of the public and to the preservation of the natural resource, scenic, recreational and economic values of the ocean shore” (OAR 736-020-0003(7)). 

This hearing is an opportunity for the department to further develop a factual basis for a permit decision based on the review standards, including whether the application demonstrates:

• There are no reasonable alternatives to the proposed design or construction methods that would better protect the ocean shore, including recreation, scenic, and natural resources.
• The proposed project was designed to avoid and minimize damage to, and retain the scenic attraction of, the known ancient forest remnants.
• The project avoids impact to properties not owned by the applicant, unless agreed to by the landowner.

The submitted materials for application 3051, can be viewed under the heading of “Pending Applications” at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/prp/pages/per-ocean-shore.aspx.

Register at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2l_2kNRdR-C0ml4eTYSaaA#/registration to attend the Zoom meeting or call Allison Mangini, 541-220-3786, allison.mangini@oprd.oregon.gov   by noon Aug. 13 to be added to the attendee list.

Following the hearing, registered attendees may provide written testimony until 5 p.m. Aug.  19.  Submit by sending to: 

• es.Permits@oprd.oregon.gov">OceanShores.Permits@oprd.oregon.gov, or
• Tyler Blanchette

OREGON PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT 

P.O. Box 2139 

Waldport, OR 97394 

Contact Ocean Shore Permit Coordinator, Tyler Blanchette 503-510-6741, .Blanchette@oprd.oregon.gov">Tyler.Blanchette@oprd.oregon.gov, for questions about permit application process.

The services, programs and activities of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department are covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you need special accommodations to participate in this meeting, please contact Allison Mangini at 541-220-3786, allison.mangini@oprd.oregon.gov by 5 p.m. Aug. 8.

Benton County is pleased to announce the implementation of a new online platform, MuniCode, which offers improved access to Benton County Code chapters. The MuniCode platform aims to improve the public’s experience navigating the Code in many ways.

MuniCode is an easily searchable tool that houses the entire County Code and County Charter. The public can use it to search for keywords such as floodplain, accessory dwelling unit, solid waste management, food handlers license, vehicle camping, and more.

County Code refers to the collection of laws, regulations, and ordinances enacted by the governing body of a county. These codes govern various aspects of life within the county, including zoning, land use, building standards, public safety, health regulations, and other local administrative procedures. The County Code serves as a legal framework to ensure orderly development, protect public health and safety, and promote general welfare within the county.

“This change is a great enhancement for our community as it provides increased accessibility and transparency and will be a time saver for community members,” said Benton County Commissioner Nancy Wyse."

The MuniCode platform comes standard with Google Translate built-in, enabling instant translation of the Code into 200+ languages, increasing accessibility for non-native English speakers. Following the initial implementation, MuniCode will display the history of code amendments over time. Users can choose to subscribe to be notified of code changes in sections of interest to them.

An additional feature, MuniDocs, is also now available. MuniDocs will house and organize many important County documents. MuniDocs will allow for full searchability within documents uploaded to the platform using keyword searches.

Benton County’s Code officially went live on the MuniCode platform this month, July 2024, joining thousands of other jurisdictions nationwide using this same online tool.

You can access the full Benton County Code directly from the County’s website, from within County Counsel’s page, Community Development’s page, or from the MuniCode Library by selecting the state of Oregon and Benton County from the list. 

Benton County continues to look for ways to increase transparency and improve the public’s experience navigating complex systems. The County made this investment in MuniCode in early 2024 as part of an initiative to enhance website functionality, increase the searchability of Code language, and display Code amendments. Users will no longer need to download individual Code chapters in their search for information. Instead, users can search for terms from within the platform, identify the Code section of interest, share a link directly to specific sections of the Code, print, download, email, compare versions of the Code over time, view recent ordinances, and get technical support – all within one platform. 

“Implementing the MuniCode platform is a significant step forward in making our County Code more accessible and transparent to the public. We are proud to join thousands of other jurisdictions in using this innovative tool,” said Rick Crager, Assistant County Administrator.

This new platform enhances transparency and accessibility, ensuring that Benton County residents can easily access, understand, and stay updated on local regulations and ordinances.

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

(PRINEVILLE, Ore)— Today, the City of Prineville announced a list of finalists for Prineville’s next police chief. Community members will have the opportunity to meet the finalists at tomorrow’s meet-and-greet.

Tomorrow, July 24, the City of Prineville will host a public meet-and-greet with three finalists for the city’s next police chief. The informal meet-and-greet will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Ron’s Comfort Food Café, located at Meadow Lakes Golf Course. Community members can leave feedback on the candidates on comment cards. Refreshments will be provided.

Candidate Biographies (in alphabetical order)

Kenneth Booker is an experienced leader with 32 years of service in the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. During his career, he has served in various units, including the Enforcement Bureau Patrol Division and Tactical Operations, and most recently as Deputy Chief for the Bureau of Internal Oversight, Court Compliance & Training. He has also worked as an adjunct professor. He holds a Master of Science in Leadership from Grand Canyon University, a Bachelor's in Public Safety Administration, and numerous certifications in law enforcement instruction.

Thomas Crino began his public service career as a patrol officer with the Beaverton Police Department in 2003. He has spent the last decade in leadership positions, including Training Sergeant, Patrol/Admin Lieutenant, and PS/Training Lieutenant, where he currently serves.  He holds a Bachelor’s in Business Management with a minor in Political Science from Oregon State University and is currently pursuing a Master's in Public Safety from the University of Virginia, as well as holding various certifications.

Chad Davis has almost 30 years of leadership experience in public service. His first position was with the City of Monmouth Police Department as a reserve Police Officer. He then transitioned to Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, where he’s held positions including Sergeant, Deputy Sheriff, and, for the last 13 years, Lieutenant. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Western Oregon University with a Bachelor’s in Science and Law Enforcement and holds various professional certificates.

On Thursday, July 25, the candidates will participate in interviews with four panels consisting of regional public safety professionals, community leaders, and members of the Prineville Police Department.

The candidates were chosen through a national search conducted in collaboration with a third-party firm. 

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About the City of Prineville:

Located east of the Cascade mountains in Oregon’s high desert, the City of Prineville is a resurgent rural community that has preserved its small-town, ranching roots and Western lifestyle while embracing smart growth in a business-friendly environment. With a population of just over 10,000 residents, the county seat of Crook County attracts a diversity of business and lifestyle interests, including tech giants Meta and Apple, recreational enthusiasts, and a thriving agricultural industry. Incorporated in 1880, City of Prineville operates the oldest continuously running municipal short line railway in the U.S., as well as a public golf course. Prineville boasts numerous recreational assets, including the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River, and remains a popular destination for anglers and hunters. For more information on City services and programs, visit cityofprineville.com.

I-84 between Pendleton and Ontario will close for the next three to five nights to manage the Durkee Fire currently burning west of the interstate. 

The closures will begin at 7 p.m. with all lanes open again by 5 a.m. the following day. If other highways need to be closed in the area, they will be closed during the same time.

A full closure will allow fire crews to safely conduct large-scale fuel reduction burnouts.

Travelers are encouraged to delay their trip during these closures until roads are safe. If you must travel, consult Tripcheck.com and check conditions for your route. Plan an alternate route by staying on main highways. Do not follow GPS directions or detour on county or forest roads as these are not suitable for interstate traffic and may have ongoing fire activity.

Bend Fire Department responded to a fire on Skyline Ranch Rd just west of Awbrey Glen Golf Course this afternoon just before 4pm. A neighbor was returning home and spotted a tree smoldering in the middle of a dry grass field and called 911. As the first arriving crew arrived the fire started to spread into the grass and be carried by the wind. Within minutes the fire had grown to ¼ acre and started spreading fast. The first arriving fire engines were assisted by a water tender from Shevlin Sand and Gravel to stop the fire but not before reaching nearly an acre in size. Strong, variable winds played a factor in the speed of growth of this fire. 

Crews were able to quickly stop the grass fire before it reached any trees or the small barn at the south end of the field. The tree was struck by lightning the nigh before and had been smoldering since then. The tree was not smoking earlier in the day but as the weather warmed up and the winds increased the fire started to spread. 

An earlier smoldering fire was extinguished around 230pm in a large open lot east of Caldera High School. The fire was noted by passerby's and called in. The smoldering area was extinguished before it could spread to any brush and trees near by, keeping it to less than 100 sq. feet, cause unknown. 

THE DALLES, Ore. – Residents west of the Columbia Gorge town of Mosier are being told to evacuate as the fast-moving Microwave Tower Fire burns eastward, driven by strong westerly winds of 30 to 35 miles per hour. 

LEVEL 3 - GO NOW! Evacuate immediately from Hwy 30 south the Proctor Rd., east to Huskey Rd and the border of the City of Mosier and west to the Hood River County line.

LEVEL 2 - GET SET to evacuate from the city of Mosier and from Huskey Rd. east to Mosier Creek Rd., and south to Jasper Lane.

A Red Cross shelter for evacuees has been set up at the Hood River Middle School, 1602 May Street, Hood River, OR 97031

Firefighters from ODF’s Unit Office in The Dalles are being aided by Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area U.S. Forest Service and local fire departments in battling the blaze that started west of Rattler Ridge just west of Mosier in the Columbia Gorge. A very large airtanker has been ordered to help on the fire, which was reported at 4 p.m. this afternoon. A task force of fire engines and a dozer from the Larch Creek Fire in south Wasco County are being diverted to assist on the fire. The I-84 freeway currently remains open. 

The fire is burning in grass and timber, pushed eastwards by strong westerly winds of 30 to 35 miles per hour. Earlier this afternoon it was estimated at 100 to 150 acres. Cause is not known at this time. 

Evacuation levels may change quickly given the spread rate of the fire, with new areas being moved into evacuation status. For the most up-to-date evacuation information, please visit the Wasco County Sheriff’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff/

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Part of a nearly $200 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant awarded to Oregon

SALEM, Ore. —   Oregon Housing and Community Services is set to receive more than $11 million in federal funding to increase energy efficiency in affordable housing. The award is part of a nearly $200 million federal grant Oregon received from the Environmental Protection Agency. 

“This is the largest climate pollution reduction grant Oregon has ever received,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “The effects of climate change are already among us, and we must assess how we do our work to ensure the state we call home is resilient. As climate evolves, so must our technology and policies. We have got to deliver results that people feel are making their lives better, which calls us to center communities that tend to bear the brunt of climate impacts. We appreciate the leadership of our federal delegation for pushing for these resources.”

“Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is a critical strategy to mitigate the impacts of climate change,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “When I was Speaker of the House, I fought for ambitious GHG reduction goals. This investment is not only an affirmation of Oregon’s collective efforts to combat climate change, but a significant down payment on our ability to meet our reduction goals with a statewide approach. I want to thank Oregon’s congressional delegation for their partnership in making this key investment happen.”

OHCS’ Multifamily Energy Program (OR-MEP) was part of the team applying for the federal grant. OR-MEP allocates funding to owners and developers of OHCS-funded affordable housing, such as The Lawrence in Portland, to increase energy efficiency in multifamily housing.

“Affordable housing isn’t helpful for residents if utility bills are high. At all of our properties, we look to decrease our residents’ energy burden while lowering our carbon footprint and providing welcoming and well-designed living spaces,” said Ben Pray, Chief Executive Officer at Home First Development, the owner of The Lawrence.

By installing various energy-efficient features, including heat pumps, water heaters, insulation, windows, and interior lighting, The Lawrence has developed a space where the residents can live affordably and with minimal energy burden. The multifamily development provides 96 units of affordable, environmentally friendly living for individuals and families with incomes below 60% of the area median, including a large community of refugees from Myanmar, Bangladesh, and India.

For more information or to apply for the program, visit the OR-MEP website. The deadline for submitting applications is Aug. 30, 2024.

el comunicado de prensa en español

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)
OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.

Linn County, Ore 21 July 24- On Sunday, July 21, 2024, at 2:09 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 222, in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Lexus GS, operated by Isael Garcia (23) of Woodburn, rear-ended a northbound Toyota Camry, operated by Justin Michael Palmer (37) of La Center (WA).

The operator of the Toyota (J. Palmer) suffered reportedly serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital. 

A passenger in the Toyota, Scott Alan Palmer (53) of Camarillo (CA), was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Lexus (Garcia) suffered reportedly minor injuries. Garcia was medically cleared and arrested for DUII.

The highway was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation. The investigation is on-going.

OSP was assisted by the Linn County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

# # # 

About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

Salem, Ore – Starting this past Wednesday, July 17, and into Sunday, July 21, Oregon experienced two separate lightning events that resulted in over 2,000 strikes across the state, which primarily affected Southern, Central and Eastern Oregon. With multiple crews engaged in initial attack on new fire starts and all of Oregon’s available incident management teams on assignment, now is the time for Oregonians to be prepared for wildfires and help prevent future ignitions. 

Oregonians are urged to actively practice wildfire prevention, prepare their home and a go-bag for evacuation and know where to sign up for alerts. 

How can people help prevent wildfires?

The Oregon Department of Forestry is urging the public to actively practice wildfire prevention as the state works to control over 20 large fires. Additional human-caused fires on the landscape will draw the firefighting efforts away from the lightning-caused fires and put extra strain on ground and aviation resources, which are already spread thin. YOU can help prevent wildfires by:

• Checking and following your local fire regulations. The majority of the state is either in high or extreme fire danger right now, meaning even the smallest of sparks could start the next large wildfire.
• Remember that debris burning is prohibited statewide.
  • Return to check on your burn site if you burned earlier in the year.
• Make sure your car has been recently serviced to avoid faulty parts throwing sparks.
• Don't drag tow chains.
• Avoid parking vehicles on tall, dry grass.
• Recreate responsibly. Where campfires are allowed, make sure your campfire is DEAD OUT before leaving it by drowning it with water, stirring it with a shovel and repeating that process until it is cold to the touch. If there is heat coming off it, there are still embers that could reignite.

How can I prepare my home to be resilient against fire?

The Oregon State Fire Marshal can help you create defensible space. Defensible space is the area around your home and property that’s maintained to prevent wildfire from spreading. Creating and maintaining defensible space is the best protection you can give your home against wildfire. 

A few ideas to protect the first five feet around your home: 

• Remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris from the roof, gutters, and on top of and underneath decks.
• Trim tall plants and bushes growing directly under eaves and make sure trees and plants have adequate space from your home and other vegetation.
• Remove dead and combustible plants and mulch; replace it with decorative rock or gravel.
• Cover exterior attic vents, soffit vents, and areas below decks and patios with 1/8" metal wire mesh.

Be cautious with using power tools and other equipment that can throw sparks and don’t operate machinery in the heat of the day. Summer is a great time to plan defensible space projects to start working on in the fall when wildfire season is over.

How can I prepare myself in case I need to evacuate? 

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) urges everyone to prepare for wildfires and other emergencies by knowing evacuation levels, staying informed, having a plan, and having a go-kit ready. 

Evacuation Levels

• Oregon follows a three-level evacuation notification system, each structured around safety threat level.
• Oregonians should become familiar with "Be Ready, Be Set, Go!" evacuation levels to make informed decisions when receiving evacuation notices.
• OEM urges people to evacuate whenever they feel unsafe, conditions can change rapidly; individuals should always make the best decision for their safety.
• Following an evacuation, people should not return to the area until public safety officials state it is safe.

Stay Informed

• Stay informed sign up to receive evacuation at, ORAlert.gov remember to update information if need be.
• Find the websites for your county emergency management, sheriff's office, or tribal police and follow them on social media.
• Check your phone settingsto ensure wireless emergency alerts are turned on. 

Have a Plan

• Do you know what to do during an evacuation? This evacuation checklist explains what to do before, during, and after an evacuation.
• Establish a communication plan with a list of important contacts and a safe place for loved ones to meet if they are separated during an emergency. 
• Identify multiple evacuation routes from home, work, or school and plan for transportation needs. 
• People with disabilities should consider individual circumstances and specific needs when planning for evacuation, such as special equipment, transportation, and service animals.
• Have an evacuation plan for pets, make a pet evacuation kit in a tote bag or pet crate, and plan for transportation and sheltering of large animals such as horses and other livestock.

Make a Go-Kit

• Assemble an emergency kit of essential supplies that can be grabbed quickly.
• Pack an easy-to-carry backpack or bag for each household member with health and safety items such as food, water, medication, flashlights, phone chargers, clothing, and important documents. Visit American Red Cross to learn more.

Find more information and resources at Wildfire.Oregon.gov.

Recreate Responsibly

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) encourages visitors to know before they go when it comes to campfire restrictions. Due to the continued low humidity and risk of wildfires, OPRD banned campfires at all Oregon State Parks east of the Cascades as well as at parks in high-risk areas around the state until conditions improve. Most Oregon State Parks currently have a campfire ban. Please check park webpages or the wildfire feature story at stateparks.oregon.gov/ before your next visit. Thank you for helping to reduce the risk of wildfires.

Morrow County, Ore. 19 July 24- On Friday, July 19, 2024, at 3:10 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-730, near milepost 173, in Morrow County,

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Jeep Wrangler, operated by Anthony Daulton (41) of Las Vegas (NV), crossed into the eastbound lane for unknown reasons and struck an eastbound Nissan King Cab pickup, operated by Abraham Figuerou-Ayala (51) of Umatilla, head-on.

The operator of the Nissan (Figuerou-Ayala) and passenger, a male juvenile, were declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Jeep (Daulton) and passenger, Clarissa Ann Daulton (41) of Las Vegas (NV), suffered reported serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by Boardman Fire, Irrigon Fire, Morrow County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT. 

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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

Contact Info:
Public Information Officer 
Oregon State Police 
Media Email: OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov 
www.oregon.gov/OSP

Clackamas County, Ore. 21 July 24- On Sunday, July 21, 2024, at 1:45 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Hwy-26, near milepost 32, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Volkswagen Tiguan, operated by a female juvenile, entered the eastbound lanes for unknown reasons and struck an eastbound BMW 540, operated by Matthew Dorsett (32) of Redmond (WA), head on. The BMW spun into the westbound lanes and was struck by a westbound Tesla T3, operated by Renee Ann Dejarnatt (40) of Portland.

The operator of the BMW (M. Dorsett) and passenger, Claire Elise Kidd Dorsett (31) of Redmond (WA), were declared deceased at the scene. 

The operator of the Volkswagen (female juvenile) suffered reported minor injures and was transported to a local medical center.

The operator of the Tesla (Dejarnatt) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to a local medical center.

The highway was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation and no further information is available for release at this time.

OSP was assisted by Hoodland Fire and the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

July 22, 2024 Update

After consultation with the Incident Commander of the Wickiup and Round Mountain Fires, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is lowering all evacuation levels around the Wickiup Fire to Level 1: Be Ready. This includes the Haner Park area and the Deschutes National Forest between Forest Service Road 4262 and Forest Service Road 44, south of South Century Drive (FS 42) and Burgess Road (FS 43).  

There is a forest closure in effect for that area for community and firefighter safety.

Release Date: July 17, 2024

Location:  National Forest area near Wickiup Reservoir

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is currently on scene assisting with evacuations near Wickiup Reservoir. The following evacuation levels have been issued: 

Level 3 Go Now: National Forest area north of Wickiup, Forest Service Road 4262 and Forest Service Road 4380 and south of Forest Service Road 42 (South Century Drive)

Level 2 Be Set: National Forest area between Road 4380 and the Deschutes River including Bull Bend and Wyeth Campgrounds and private inholdings along the west side of the river at Haner Park 

Level 1 Be Ready: Haner Park subdivision east of the Deschutes River

Find current evacuation areas at: deschutes.org/emergency

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, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with five K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves over 200,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 259 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 193 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE MORAL FITNESS

WORKGROUP MEETING

SCHEDULED

Notice of Scheduled Meeting

The DPSST Criminal Justice Moral Fitness Workgroup will meet at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, in the Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Jennifer Howald at 503-551-3258 or .howald@dpsst.oregon.gov">jennifer.howald@dpsst.oregon.gov.

The meeting will be recorded and posted on the DPSST YouTube page after the meeting: https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST

Agenda Items 

1.   Introductions

2.   Policy Committee Case Review Processes

      Carried over from May 6, 2024, and June 5, 2024

3.   Applicant Review Committee and Pre-employment Standards

      Carried over from June 5, 2024

4.   Follow-up on Pending Action Items or Discussions from Past Meetings

      On-going agenda item

5.   Next Workgroup Meeting: TBD

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law. This meeting will be digitally recorded and posted on the DPSST YouTube page after the meeting. The meeting will also be recorded in the form of written minutes. Discussion of issues will only be conducted by workgroup members. Please be mindful of comments and side conversations.

SALEM, Ore. - On Saturday, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the Durkee Fire in Baker County. The fire sparked Wednesday and continues to grow, threatening communities. The Baker and Malheur County sheriffs’ offices have levels 2 and 3 evacuation notices in place. 

As of Sunday morning, the fire was estimated to be 116,431 acres and zero percent contained. This fire is managed by the teams assigned to the nearby Cow Valley Fire in Malheur County.

Oregon is expecting another round of lightning and gusty winds over the next 24 hours. Red Flag Warnings extend across much of the state through Sunday. Oregonians are asked to pay extremely close attention to this critical fire danger and take the necessary steps to avoid sparking a fire. As of Sunday morning, there were 81 active fires that burned 504,692 acres in Oregon.

"This latest round of weather is extremely concerning,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Our firefighters are doing everything thing they can to rise to this immense challenge, but they are taxed, and we need our fellow Oregonians’ help. Please take precautions to avoid sparking a human-caused fire, be familiar with evacuation levels, and have a go-kit ready in case you need to leave your home.”

The OSFM has resources assigned to the following:

• Lone Rock/Boneyard Fire (Gilliam, Morrow, Grant, and Wheeler counties)
• Falls Fire (Harney and Grant counties)
• Durkee Fire (Baker and Malheur counties)
• Battle Mountain Complex (Grant and Umatilla counties)

Evacuations are ordered through the local sheriff’s offices. For information about updates, please follow the respective agency on social media.

The OSFM is continually monitoring capacity within the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System to be ready to respond to new fires if resources are needed. The conditions Oregon is seeing are dynamic, complex, and changing. The OSFM cannot thank the Oregon structural fire service enough for the tireless work these firefighters put in over the last two weeks.

While we remain in constant contact with the structural fire service, we are also working in lockstep with the Oregon Department of Forestry, the Bureau of Land Management, tribal partners, and the U.S. Forest Service.

For updates on the fires the OSFM has resources mobilized, visit www.osfminfo.org. 

Information Resources

• Lone Rock/Boneyard: InciWeb
• Falls Fire: Facebook, InciWeb
• Durkee Fire: Facebook, InciWeb
• Battle Mountain Complex: Facebook, InciWeb