Oregon State Fire Marshal Randy Simpson urges residents to check their smoke alarms when changing their clock to Daylight Savings Time Sunday, March 14th. Many Oregonians have smoke alarms with ten-year batteries so the old saying, ‘Change your clock, change your batteries' may not be correct for many households.

Smoke alarm laws in Oregon are different from most other states. Since 1999, law requires all ionization-only smoke alarms sold in the state to have a hush feature; and if an ionization-only smoke alarm is also solely battery-operated, it must also come with a 10-year lithium battery.

Although Oregon law does not require other types of alarms to have 10-year batteries, many smoke alarms are now sold with these long-life batteries. This means if a household member automatically follows the national slogan, they could be removing a perfectly good battery and replacing it at extra expense. However, some alarms with 10-year batteries are tamper proof. If you test the alarm and it doesn't work, you will need to replace the entire alarm.

Checking your alarm includes testing it to be sure the battery is working, vacuuming the alarm to get rid of dust and cobwebs, and inspecting your alarm to determine if it is ten-years-old or older. If so, you should replace the entire alarm.


"Oregonians should first test their smoke alarm battery before automatically replacing it," says Oregon State Fire Marshal Randy Simpson. "Long-life lithium batteries have a life span of up to 10 years and if your alarm has one of these batteries, it may not need replacing every time you change your clock. However, if your smoke alarms are ten years old or older you should replace them entirely," says Simpson. "Also remember to test and vacuum your smoke alarm monthly."

Working smoke alarms provide an early warning to a fire, allowing you vital minutes to escape and increasing your chances of surviving a fire. Additional safety tips:
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and outside each sleeping area
• Replace smoke alarms 10 years old or older
• Hard-wired alarms (those wired directly into home electrical systems) should have battery back-ups
• Never disconnect or remove batteries from smoke alarms for other uses
• Make a home escape plan and practice it

For more smoke alarm and fire safety information, contact your local fire department or visit http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/CommEd_SA_Program.shtml.

####


Attached Media Files: Remember to test your smoke alarms

Five people were injured, two seriously, in a two-vehicle traffic crash at the east end of Government Camp Loop Road's intersection with Highway 26. The crash closed Highway 26 for one hour and a detour was established using Government Camp Loop Road.

According to OSP Trooper Tyler Bechtel, on March 6, 2010 at approximately 1:10 p.m. a 2007 Subaru Impreza driven by DALE E. BARNACHE, age 59, from southwest Portland, was attempting to turn left from Government Camp Loop Road to eastbound Highway 26 when it turned in front of an eastbound 1989 Volvo four-door driven by RAY RADEMACHER, age 51, from Maupin. The Volvo collided with the turning Subaru.

BARNACHE and RADEMACHER both received minor injuries not requiring medical treatment. They were using safety restraints.

Three passengers in the Volvo were injured and transported. PATRICIA RADEMACHER, age 49, and JACQUELYN BEVERAGE, age 26, both from Maupin, were transported by LifeFlight to Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU) with serious injuries. HUGO CHRISTENSEN, age 2 1/2, was transported by AMR to OHSU with minor injuries. They were all using appropriate safety restraints.

Off duty fire personnel from Bend and Sunriver Fire Departments drove upon the scene shortly after the collision and provided initial medical treatment along with ski patrol personnel from Summit Ski Area.

Hoodland Fire Department and ODOT also responded to assist.

BARNACHE was cited for Dangerous Left Turn.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-03/1002/030610.hwy26mp54.1.JPG

Oregon State Police (OSP) have tentatively identified the the driver and vehicle believed to be involved in Thursday morning's fatal traffic crash on Highway 58 west of Oakridge. A Sparks, Nevada man died in the crash when his commercial truck collided with several large bales of hay that fell off a semi-trailer traveling in the opposite direction about seven miles west of Oakridge. No other information will be released at this time while OSP troopers continue this investigation.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Sergeant Andy Kenyon, on March 4, 2010 at approximately 5:25 a.m. a commercial truck driven by GREGORY RALPH MULLER, age 37, from Sparks, Nevada was eastbound on Highway 58 near milepost 27. While negotiating a sharp curve, MULLER was passing a truck pulling two trailers loaded with bales of hay coming westbound. Several bales of hay weighing about 1,000 lbs. each fell off the lead trailer and struck the truck driven by MULLER, demolishing the cab in which he was in.

The truck pulling the trailer from which the hay came off did not stop and was last observed westbound. The vehicle and driver have not been identified. Information indicates this truck was a white commercial truck hauling two trailers of oversize bales of hay. A witness stated the hay fell from the front of the load on the lead trailer.

MULLER was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was driving for Sherwin Williams Company transporting clothes and furniture. His vehicles came to rest in a ditch along the eastbound side of the highway.

OSP troopers from Springfield and Oakridge responded to the scene along with ODOT, and Dexter and Oakridge Fire and EMS.

Highway 58 was closed approximately 4.5 hours while troopers investigated. ODOT cleared several bales of hay from the roadway.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-03/1002/030410.fatal.hwy58mp27.1.JPG , 2010-03/1002/030410.fatal.hwy58mp27.2.JPG , 2010-03/1002/030410.fatal.hwy58mp27.3.JPG , 2010-03/1002/030410.fatal.hwy58mp27.4.JPG

Following a lengthy investigation involving Oregon State Police (OSP), Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Department of Motor Vehicles, and the Lincoln County District Attorney's Office, a motor vehicle dismantler business east of Newport and three individuals were cited on multiple charges including environmental crimes.

According to DEQ's website, "vehicle dismantlers play a valuable role by recovering, rebuilding and reselling usable parts from worn out or damaged vehicles and recycling other materials. Although generation of wastes may be unavoidable, vehicle dismantlers can help protect the health of our environment through good waste management practices."

"King Salvage", a Vehicle Dismantler business for several years on Highway 20, was the focus of the investigation following numerous complaints about the business related to water pollution, air pollution, and unlawful storage of solid waste. In addition to the alleged complaints, the business's Dismantler certificate expired in July 2009.

Additionally, DEQ has taken enforcement action against the Mobleys. On October 10, 2007, DEQ issued "King Salvage" a Notice of Violation and civil penalty totaling $32,396 for various solid waste and hazardous waste violations. After a hearing on the penalty before an administrative law judge, the Mobleys did not comply with the judge's order to clean up the property. In May 2009, EPA conducted a time-critical removal at "King Salvage", using federal Oil Pollution Act funds. EPA removed approximately 500 tons of petroleum-contaminated soil from the site as well as 50 drums of used oil, which posed a threat to Beaver Creek. A December 1, 2009 DEQ inspection revealed many of the same violations, as well as additional air quality and water quality violations. These violations have been referred to DEQ's Office of Compliance and Enforcement.

On February 26, 2010, OSP Fish & Wildlife Division troopers cited the "King Salvage" business and three associated people to appear in Lincoln County Circuit Court on March 17th for the following charges:

"King Salvage"
* Water Pollution in the First Degree
* Air Pollution in the Second Degree
* Unlawful Disposal / Storage of Solid Waste
* Conducting a Motor Vehicle Dismantler's Business Without a Certificate
* Improperly Conducting a Motor Vehicle Dismantling Business

Robert Mobley, age 71, from Newport, co-owner of "King Salvage"
* Water Pollution in the First Degree
* Air Pollution in the Second Degree
* Unlawful Disposal / Storage of Solid Waste
* Conducting a Motor Vehicle Dismantler's Business Without a Certificate
* Improperly Conducting a Motor Vehicle Dismantling Business

Lanetta Mobley, age 57, from Newport, co-owner of "King Salvage"
* Water Pollution in the First Degree
* Air Pollution in the Second Degree (two counts)
* Unlawful Disposal / Storage of Solid Waste
* Conducting a Motor Vehicle Dismantler's Business Without a Certificate
* Improperly Conducting a Motor Vehicle Dismantling Business

Richard Inocencio, age 48, from Newport, a "King Salvage" employee
* Water Pollution in the Second Degree

Water Pollution in the First Degree is a Class B felony. All other listed charges are Class A misdemeanors.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-03/1002/KingSalvage.1.JPG , 2010-03/1002/KingSalvage.2.JPG , 2010-03/1002/KingSalvage.3.JPG

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers' enforcement of Oregon's new cell phone law banning most uses of mobile communication devices while driving a motor vehicle noted nearly twice as many citations issued during February in comparison to the number issued during January.

Updated enforcement statistics indicated OSP troopers issued drivers 72 citations and 233 warnings during February. During the new law's first month, OSP troopers issued 41 citations and 259 warnings. In total, OSP troopers have cited 113 drivers and warned 492 others since the new law went into effect January 1, 2010.

With some exceptions, it is unlawful in Oregon for a driver to use a cell phone without using a hands-free accessory while operating a motor vehicle. Violation of the cell phone law is a primary offense, meaning that a police officer may stop a driver solely for observing the violation, and is a class D traffic violation with a minimum base fine of $142.

Additional information about this law is available on our website at:

http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/docs/OSP_Cell_law.pdf

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-03/1002/CellPhoneLaw.Message.JPG

Oregon State Police (OSP), with the assistance of the Clackamas County District Attorney's Office and Clackamas County Medical Examiner's Office, is continuing the investigation into the death of a woman Thursday night on Highway 26 in the Rhododendron area. The victim is identified as BRIDGET MAUREEN McGOWAN (aka: Bridget Maureen Sherbahn), age 52, from Gresham. An autopsy was completed Friday afternoon at the State Medical Examiner's Office confirming that the injuries that caused her death were consistent with injuries sustained from being run over by a vehicle.

The ongoing investigation by OSP detectives started following a report on February 25, 2010 at approximately 9:15 p.m. that a woman, later identified as BRIDGET McGOWAN, was found critically injured on the westbound lanes of Highway 26 near milepost 44. Investigators confirmed there was a reported verbal disturbance involving the victim and her 22-year old daughter who was visiting with her boyfriend at a cabin rented by the victim and victim's boyfriend. Information that the victim may have fallen from a pickup prior to her death is pending confirmation through the ongoing investigation. She died at the scene.

A white 1996 Dodge pickup with camper reportedly involved was spotted by an OSP trooper westbound and stopped near milepost 29 east of Sandy. Another trooper and officers from Clackamas County and Sandy Police Department responded to the stop location to assist.

Driving the pickup at the time of the stop was the victim's daughter. The passenger was the driver's 21-year old boyfriend. Both previously lived in California but now are believed to be living in the pickup's camper. They have cooperated with the investigation and no arrests were made. Their names are not being released pending further investigation.

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

Oregon State Police (OSP), with the assistance of the Clackamas County District Attorney's Office and Clackamas County Medical Examiner's Office, is continuing the investigation into the death of a woman Thursday night on Highway 26 in the Rhododendron area. The victim has been tentatively identified as a 52-year old woman but her name and residence information is not being released at this time. An autopsy is planned and there have been no arrests.

Preliminary information indicates on February 25, 2010 at approximately 9:15 p.m. a report was received that a woman was found critically injured on the westbound lanes of Highway 26 near milepost 44. Initial information indicated there was a reported disturbance in the area, but information that the woman may have fallen from a pickup and was run over are not confirmed at this time. The woman died at the scene.

A pickup reportedly involved was spotted by an OSP trooper westbound and stopped near milepost 29 east of Sandy. Another trooper and officers from Clackamas County and Sandy Police Department responded to the stop location to assist. The two occupants, a female and male, were identified. The driver is the victim's daughter. No arrests were made and their names are not being released at this time. The pickup is held pending further investigation.

Additional information, including the victim's name, may be released later today as the investigation continues.

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

An Oregon State Police (OSP) traffic stop early last Friday morning near Ashland led to the arrest of two people and subsequent seizure of over 13 pounds of cocaine.

According to OSP Lieutenant Kelly Collins, on February 19, 2010 at approximately 4:40 a.m. an OSP trooper stopped a 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe displaying Washington license plates northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 13 for a speed violation. The two occupants were identified as driver RUBEN RAMIREZ-VENTURA, age 24, from Renton, Washington, and female passenger MARISOL PEREZ-ALMONTE, age 28, from Seattle, Washington.

Subsequent investigation related to the traffic stop led to the seizure of 6 kilos of cocaine (approximately 13.2 lbs) concealed in the vehicle. Estimated value of the seized cocaine is approximately $150,000.

Both occupants were taken into custody without incident and lodged in the Jackson County Jail for Unlawful Possession and Distribution of a Controlled Substance – Cocaine, and Conspiracy to Deliver a Controlled Substance – Cocaine. According to Jackson County Jail records, both individuals have Immigration and Customs Enforcement holds listed.

OSP troopers were assisted by OSP Drug Enforcement Section detectives, DEA Task Force, and Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) team.

Photograph Source: Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1002/021910.i5mp13.cocaine.1.JPG , 2010-02/1002/Ramirez_Ventura.jpg , 2010-02/1002/Perez_Almonte.jpg

A Mitchell-area man died Monday when his vehicle drove off the roadway on Highway 26 just west of Mitchell. The victim and his pickup were found by a citizen while police were searching for it after he was reported overdue by family members.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Sergeant Don Wagner, on February 22, 2010 at approximately 3:40 p.m. OSP received a report of a vehicle off the roadway, over a steep embankment and partially submerged in a creek on a rural portion of Highway 26 just west of Mitchell.

A 1997 Mazda pickup driven by GARY LEON WILLIAMS, age 46, from Mitchell, was eastbound on Highway 26 near milepost 65, when he failed to negotiate a curve leaving the roadway, traveling over a steep embankment and coming to rest partially submerged in a creek.

WILLIAMS was reported overdue by family members to Wheeler County Sheriffs Office after failing to return home as expected mid-morning Monday. The report prompted Sheriffs Office officials to start looking for WILLIAMS when a citizen's report led police to the crash scene just west of Mitchell.

WILLIAMS was found deceased at the scene.

WILLIAMS was wearing safety restraints at the time of the crash. The initial investigation suggests that neither speed nor alcohol appeared to be contributing factors in the crash.

OSP troopers from the Bend Area Command office are continuing the investigation.

Wheeler County Sheriff's Office and ODOT assisted at the scene. Highway 26 was partially closed to one lane for about two hours at the crash scene.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1002/022210.fatal.hwy26.mitchell.2.JPG , 2010-02/1002/022210.fatal.hwy26.mitchell.1.JPG

Coos County District Attorney Paul Frasier announced Monday morning, February 22nd that Gabriel Morris, age 33, was taken into custody without incident by police in Prince William County, Virginia. Gabriel Morris was wanted in connection with the murder of two people in Bandon, Oregon on February 8, 2010. His wife, Jessica Morris, age 33, was also taken into custody on a material witness warrant, and their 4-year old daughter, Kalea, was found and not harmed.

The information provided to District Attorney Frasier at this point is sketchy, however, he was informed that the Morris family had been staying for the last few days with a person who they met online and who lived in Virginia. That person became suspicious of some of the things Morris was telling him and decided to check by looking up Morris on the Internet. During that search, the person discovered Morris was wanted for murder in Oregon and then contacted police in Prince William County.

The police checked out the residence earlier today and saw their Ford Taurus parked in front of the home. Police then summoned their special weapons and tactics team, made contact and found all three of the Morris family. No one was injured during the arrest.

Later today, District Attorney Frasier and several detectives will be flying out to Virginia to conduct further investigations as needed. He anticipates that Gabriel and Jessica Morris will be held in custody and they will be entitled court hearings in Virginia.

It is not known when they will be returned to Coos County. If they decide to contest extradition, it could be several weeks or months before they are returned. If they waive extradition then their return could be in as little as a couple weeks.

District Attorney Frasier thanked all who helped in this investigation, including nationwide media for helping inform the public of this investigation and subsequent search for the Morris family.

Additional Note:

Information from the US Marshals Service advises that the arrest was made by the US Marshals Service Capital Area Regional Task Force (CARFTF) near a residence on Dominion Drive in Dumfries, Virginia.

Gabriel Morris was in Dumfries, Virginia staying with a local resident when community members recognized Morris from an America's Most Wanted episode that aired on February 20th. The tip was called in to the Prince William County Sheriff's Office and was referred to the CARFTF. At the time of the arrest, Morris was armed with a .45 caliber handgun and was driving in a Ford Explorer accompanied by the female homeowner of the residence where he was staying. Morris' wife, Jessica, and their daughter were located in the Ford Taurus. Both vehicles were leaving the residence together when arrested.

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1002/Jessica_Morris.jpg , 2010-02/1002/Gabriel_Morris.jpg

(Note: REGISTRATION DEADLINE is FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, at 3:00 p.m. This is an excellent opportunity for media representatives new to Oregon or who cover public safety topics.)

Interested in learning more about and getting a glimpse into what the realities are that police officers face in use-of-force incidents?

Oregon public safety representatives and trainers are offering a day-long unique, innovative opportunity for media representatives to experience what happens when police officers are faced with, and involved in, use-of-force incidents. This one-day free crash course training is offered only to Oregon media representatives interested in better understanding what happens during and after these incidents. Advance registration is required for the training that will be held Tuesday, March 2nd, at the Oregon Public Safety Academy located at 4190 Aumsville Highway in Salem involving representatives from:

* Department of Justice
* Department of Public Safety Standards and Training
* Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police
* Oregon State Sheriff's Association
* Oregon State Police

Strict ground rules have been established for those who attend:

1) The training will start promptly at 8:00 a.m. and conclude about 5:00 p.m. All attendees must agree to stay for the whole day and cannot just come for an hour or two and leave.

2) Attendees must be prepared to participate in the training scenarios and be dressed appropriately and casually so they can participate.

3) All questions must be held for the end of the day when representatives from the above organizations and agencies will be available to answer questions. Trainers and presenters will not answer questions regarding currently active or past Oregon cases involving the use of force. General questions about the law, tactics or training will be answered.

4) Photographers and videographers will be allowed to accompany attendees and may film any portion of the training. They must agree not to photograph any students currently on campus going through training.

Schedule:

8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. - In classroom briefing on use-of-force law

10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. - Presentation on physiology prior to and during use-of-force events.

10:30 a.m. - Groups will be split into two smaller groups for use-of-force exercises. Hands-on training will be provided at the Skills Building for simulation exercises and the Scenario Village for live hands-on scenarios.

12 noon - Attendees can have lunch at their own expense in the training center cafeteria.

1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. - The two groups will switch locations for continued exercise training.

3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. - Department of Justice will give a briefing on Senate Bill 111 regarding the investigation of police deadly force incidents.

4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. - Q&A period with representatives from the above listed agencies and organizations.

Registration:

Mandatory advance registration must be done by Friday, February 26th at 3:00 p.m. To register, contact:

Carolyn Kendrick
Phone: (503) 378-2358
Email: Carolyn.kendrick@state.or.us

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

A 29-year old male was arrested Friday evening on multiple charges after eluding police in two separate vehicle pursuits on February 15, 2010, which ended when the male subject successfully fled on foot after abandoning the vehicle in the City of Redmond.



On February 15, 2010, at approximately 6:40 p.m. an OSP Trooper saw a silver 1995 Saturn two-door westbound on Highway 126 just west of Prineville traveling at speeds exceeding 80 mph in a 55 mph speed zone. The Trooper attempted to stop the car which fled from the officer at speeds exceeding 100 mph traveling in a reckless manner. Due to the extreme recklessness of the driver and immediate traffic conditions OSP discontinued the vehicle pursuit.



A short while later the vehicle was spotted by Redmond Police Department and a second vehicle pursuit was initiated which ended in the male subject successfully fleeing from the vehicle on foot.



The subsequent investigation identified the male driver as SETH ALLEN JOKINEN, age 29, from Redmond.



On Saturday February 20, 2010, at approximately 9:14 p.m. Officers from Prineville Police Department and OSP located JOKINEN at Ochoco Plaza in Prineville where he was taken into custody without incident. OSP arrested and lodged JOKINEN in Crook County Jail on the following charges:



· Felony Attempt to Elude in a vehicle

· Reckless Driving

· Outstanding No Bail Warrant - Probation Violation

· Outstanding No Bail Warrant - Parole Violation





Additional charges are expected to be filed by both Redmond Police Department and Prineville Police Department in reference to separate ongoing criminal investigations.


Attached Media Files: Seth Allen Jokinen

Several investigations during the last four months by members of the Baker County Narcotics Enforcement Team during the last four months led to the arrest this week of 14 people. One of the investigations focused on a major methamphetamine supplier in Grant, Crook and Baker counties that linked ten of the suspects arrested to the main supplier.

In the fall of 2009, Baker County Narcotics Enforcement Team and John Day Police Department identified RODNEY ALEN ROOKSTOOL, age 49, from John Day, as a major supplier of methamphetamine in Grant, Crook and Baker counties. The Baker County Narcotics Enforcement Team started an investigation to not only target the ROOKSTOOL, but also to identify individuals receiving narcotics from him. A series of undercover drug purchases led to the issuance of search warrants for ROOKSTOOL's person, residence and vehicles.

On January 4, 2010, ROOKSTOOL was stopped near North Powder, Oregon just after exiting Interstate 84. Detectives executed search warrants for him and the vehicle that subsequently led to the seizure of about 1/4 pound of methamphetamine, about 1/2 pound of marijuana, a .45 handgun, and about $1900 cash. A Bend-area female identified as CHRISTINE DILLON, age 46, was with ROOKSTOOL and cited and released to appear on a charge of Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance - Methamphetamine.

Additional search warrants were served during the following days at ROOKSTOOL's John Day residence where detectives found and seized $25,000 cash, thousands of dollars worth of stolen property, and a small amount of methamphetamine.

Subsequent to this ongoing investigation and evidence seized while serving the search warrants, ROOKSTOOL has been indicted by Baker County and Grant County grand juries for nearly 40 felony crimes ranging from methamphetamine trafficking to stolen property.

In connection with the ROOKSTOOL investigation, the following nine persons have been arrested this week:

* Michael Robbins, age 42, from Baker City, arrested February 16th for three counts of Conspiracy to Deliver Methamphetamine and three counts of Solicitation to Deliver Methamphetamine.
* Duane Chandler, age 40, from Baker City, arrested February 16th for Conspiracy to Deliver Methamphetamine and Solicitation to Deliver Methamphetamine.
* Destiny Dawn Burril, age 26, from John Day, arrested February 17th for Conspiracy to Deliver Methamphetamine and Solicitation to Deliver Methamphetamine.
* Debra Burril, age 54, from John Day, arrested February 17th for Conspiracy to Deliver Methamphetamine and Solicitation to Deliver Methamphetamine.
* Tina Day Couey, age 40, from John Day, arrested February 17th for two counts of Conspiracy to Deliver Methamphetamine and two counts of Solicitation to Deliver Methamphetamine.
* Theresa Placencia, age 46, from John Day, arrested February 17th for Conspiracy to Deliver Methamphetamine and Solicitation to Deliver Methamphetamine.
* Etoile Benge, age 36, from Canyon City, arrested February 17th for three counts of Conspiracy to Deliver Methamphetamine, three counts of Solicitation to Deliver Methamphetamine, Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine, and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Minor.
* Ingo Wedde, age 50, from Prairie City, arrested February 17th for Conspiracy to Deliver Methamphetamine and Solicitation to Deliver Methamphetamine.
* Curtis Heard, age 42, from Canyon City, arrested February 17th for Conspiracy to Deliver Methamphetamine and Solicitation to Deliver Methamphetamine.

Christine Dillon was also arrested February 18th at ROOKSTOOL's residence for Unlawful Manufacture of a Controlled Substance - Methamphetamine within 1000 feet of a School, and Conspiracy to Deliver Methamphetamine.

Members of the Baker County Narcotics Enforcement Team investigating these cases are comprised of detectives from the Oregon State Police Drug Enforcement Section, Baker County Sheriff's Office, and Baker City Police Department. Important assistance was provided by officers from John Day Police Department, Baker City Police Department, Baker County Sheriff's Office, Grant County Sheriff's Office, Oregon State Police, and Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team.

A separate undercover narcotics investigation by the Baker County Narcotics Enforcement Team also led to three more arrests this week for the following individuals:

* Jesse Linscott, age 24, from Baker City, arrested February 15th for Unlawful Deliver of a Controlled Substance - Methamphetamine.
* Jeffrey Sult, age 37, from North Powder, arrested February 15th for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance - Methamphetamine.
* Jake Fischer, age 26, from Baker City, arrested February 16th for Unlawful Delivery and Possession of a Controlled Substance - Methamphetamine.

Photograph Source: (Rookstool) Baker County Sheriff's Office

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


Attached Media Files: Rookstool

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into a Thursday morning fatal traffic crash on Highway 101 near Otter Crest that resulted in the death of one person and injuries to five others, four of which were serious or critical.

Preliminary investigation according to OSP Lieutenant Mike Turner indicates on February 18, 2010 at approximately 9:30 a.m. a 1998 Ford Expedition driven by WILLIAM WOOLEY, age 42, from Waldport, was southbound on Highway 101 near milepost 131 when, for an unknown reason, it crossed the centerline and crashed head-on into a northbound 2005 Nissan Altima driven by RICHARD A. WILSON, age 51, from Chehalis, Washington.

RICHARD WILSON was transported by ambulance to Samaritan Pacific Community Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. His passenger/wife, SUSAN LOUISE WILSON, age 53, was seriously injured. She was initially transported by ambulance to North Lincoln Hospital and then transferred by air ambulance to Legacy Emanuel Hospital in Portland. Both were was using safety restraints and the car's airbags deployed.

WOOLEY was seriously injured and transported by ambulance to Samaritan Pacific Community Hospital. He was then transferred to Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis.

There were three passengers in the Ford Expedition identified as:

* LUANN C. CLEVELAND, age 40, from Waldport, who was critically injured. She was transported by REACH air ambulance to Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis.
* MEGAN FLANAGAN, age 12, from Waldport, who was transported by ambulanced to North Lincoln Hospital with minor injuries.
* ANICA JAMESON, age 12, from Florence, who was seriously injured. She was transported by ground ambulance to North Lincoln Hospital and then transferred by air ambulance to Legacy Emanuel Hospital.

Safety restraint use information by the Ford's occupants is pending confirmation. The vehicle's airbags deployed.

OSP troopers from the Newport Area Command office are continuing the investigation with the assistance of the Lincoln County District Attorney's Office.

Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Lincoln City Police Department, Depoe Fire Department, Newport Fire Department, Pacific West Ambulance and ODOT assisted. All lanes were re-opened about 12:45 p.m.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1002/021810.fatal.hwy101mp131.5.JPG , 2010-02/1002/021810.fatal.hwy101mp131.4.JPG

A 29-year old Milwaukie man and his six-month old son are lucky to have survived a freak incident Wednesday when a loose trailer hitch bouncing on the road north of Canby crashed through their vehicle's front windshield. The tow hitch hit the man's chest and forearm and then nearly struck the child in his car seat before coming to rest in the back of the vehicle.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Trooper Jose Cortez, on February 17, 2010 at approximately 4:30 p.m. a 2005 Mazda Tribute driven by ERIC J. PROVOST, age 29, from Milwaukie, was northbound on Highway 99E near milepost 18 when a tow hitch suddenly bounced off the highway in front of his vehicle and crashed through the left side of the windshield. The tow hitch hit the steering wheel with such force that it bent the steering wheel, then it hit PROVOST's chest and left forearm before striking the ceiling as it missed his son seated in a car seat on the center rear seating area.

PROVOST was seriously injured and transported by LifeFlight to Oregon Health Sciences University. His injuries are non-life threatening.

The child was not injured.

OSP troopers were assisted by Canby Fire Department, Canby Police Department and ODOT.

The investigation has not determined what vehicle the trailer hitch came off from before hitting the car.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1002/021710.hwy99emp18.1.JPG , 2010-02/1002/021710.hwy99emp18.2.JPG , 2010-02/1002/021710.hwy99emp18.4.JPG , 2010-02/1002/021710.hwy99emp18.3.JPG

(Note Correction - FNAWS is the "Foundation for North American Wild Sheep" not "Federation for North American Wild Sheep")

The efforts of numerous sportsman groups' paid off with the conviction of four suspects in a Wallowa County case where DNA results were a critical component of an Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish and Wildlife Division investigation. Normally known as a valuable investigative tool helping to identify and convict suspects in criminal cases, this is the first conviction in a case where the DNA results helped prosecute Oregon wildlife violators.

Three of the four suspects convicted in Wallowa County Circuit Court are from Oregon. The fourth suspect is a Ridgefield, Washington resident. They are identified as:

George Chechelnitski, age 53, from Ridgefield, Washington, who pled guilty to a misdemeanor charge of Taking Elk without a Valid Tag. Sentencing included:
* Two year Hunting Suspension
* Two years probation
* $2108.00 in fines and fees

Aleksandr Katko, age 53, from Gresham, Oregon, who pled guilty to a misdemeanor charge of Aiding in a Violation of Wildlife Laws. Sentencing included:
* Two year Hunting Suspension
* Two years probation
* $2008.00 in fines and fees

Vadim Titoukh, age 44, from Boring, Oregon, who pled guilty to a misdemeanor charge of Aiding in a Violation of Wildlife Laws. Sentencing included:
* Two year Hunting Suspension
* Two years probation
* $2143.00 in fines and fees

Vasiliy Pitsul, age 48, from Portland, Oregon, who pled guilty to a violation charge of Aiding in a Violation of Wildlife Laws. Sentencing included:
* Two year Hunting Suspension
* $1208.00 in fines and fees

The OSP Fish & Wildlife Division had been researching new ways to help a trooper investigating an illegal big horn sheep killing and met with the Oregon Foundation for North American Wild Sheep (FNAWS). When the FNAWS organization asked how they could help, DNA analysis support was seen as an answer.

FNAWS and Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) presented a proposal for a two-year pilot project to evaluate the needs and effectiveness of a DNA program to user organizations. These organizations raised $25,000 to fund a pilot project in partnership with OSP and Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG). IDFG is home to a premier, cutting-edge wildlife forensic program that offers a full-service biological testing program, including DNA services (species comparison, gender determination, individual identification, and time/cause of death).

On November 7th, 2007, Oregon State Police Senior Trooper Mark Knapp of the received information regarding an elk that was illegally killed in the Chesnimnus Big Game Unit in Wallowa County. A subsequent investigation determined that on November 3, 2007, the opening morning of the Chesnimnus Elk Season, the group of four hunters had harvested two spike elk. It was later determined that only one of the hunters possessed a valid elk tag for that unit. In addition, parts of the second illegally killed elk were left behind and some of the elk meat was wasted. Numerous evidentiary items were seized at the crime scene.

With the assistance of several individuals who had been hunting in the area, the Oregon State Police was ultimately able to identify the four suspects. Interviews were later conducted, one search warrant was executed and additional evidence was seized. Some of the seized evidence from the scene and the residences of two suspects were analyzed at the Oregon State Police Forensic Crime Lab in Springfield, Oregon.

A critical part of the investigation also involved DNA analysis conducted by Dr. Karen Rudolph of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Wildlife Forensic Program in Caldwell, Idaho. The analysis was done on evidence seized from the scene and during the execution of the search warrant. A positive match on the DNA of the illegally taken elk was made. The results of the forensic evidence from the labs in Oregon and Idaho helped lead to the arrest and ultimate conviction of the four suspects in the Wallowa County Circuit Court.

No photographs for release.

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

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into Sunday night's fatal traffic crash that happened when the driver of a vehicle attempting to elude a Roseburg police officer lost control and crashed head-on with a second Roseburg police officer. The eluding driver was pronounced deceased at an area hospital and his passenger was critically injured. Roseburg Officer SCOTT CAMPBELL received minor injuries and was released from the hospital Monday evening.

The ongoing OSP investigation indicates on February 14, 2010 at approximately 10:46 p.m. a Roseburg police officer attempted to stop a 1997 Honda Civic two-door for a traffic violation on Northeast Stephens Street near Garden Valley Boulevard. The Honda accelerated northbound, attempting to elude the officer for about one mile when its driver lost control at a high rate of speed and crashed head-on into a second Roseburg police officer's patrol car that was southbound with emergency lights activated on Northeast Stephens Street near Newton Creek Road.

Subsequent investigation determined that the Honda had been reported stolen to Lane County Sheriff's Office. The Honda's driver, NATHAN W. LUBKEN, age 31, from Roseburg, was transported by ambulance to Mercy Medical Center in Roseburg where he was pronounced deceased. LUBKEN's driving privileges were previously suspended. He was using safety restraints.

Honda passenger HOLLY CHERIE SULLIVAN, age 27, from Eugene, was critically injured. SULLIVAN was initially transported to Mercy Medical Center and later transferred to Legacy Emanuel Hospital in Portland. As of Monday evening she was still in intensive care. Safety restraint use is pending confirmation through the investigation.

Officer CAMPBELL, age 30, was transported by ambulance to Mercy Medical Center. He was using safety restraints. CAMPBELL has been with Roseburg Police Department for 3 years. Any questions regarding CAMPBELL should be referred to their department.

OSP troopers and an OSP collision reconstructionist are continuing the investigation.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1002/021410.fatal.roseburgpd.1.JPG , 2010-02/1002/021410.fatal.roseburgpd.2.JPG , 2010-02/1002/021410.fatal.roseburgpd.3.JPG

The following news release is forwarded to Oregon media for Washington State Patrol:

(Long Beach)-- Overnight Martin A. Jones, 45, of Seaview, WA was arrested in Long Beach and booked into the Pacific County Jail in South Bend, on charges of Attempted Murder and Assault in the 1st degree in the shooting of Trooper Scott Johnson.

Search warrants are currently being sought in an attempt to obtain important evidence.

While we have a suspect in custody the investigation continues.

Investigators still need tips from the public regarding associates, vehicles, firearms, and structures associated with Mr. Jones.

If you have information please call 1-800-283-7808 or outside Washington State 1-360-405-6650.

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

The following Washington State Patrol news release is being sent to Oregon media at their request:

(Long Beach)—The Washington State Patrol announced this morning that a person of interest has been detained in the shooting of Trooper Scott Johnson. Investigators developed information about an individual overnight.

The person was located in the early morning hours of Monday, February 15, 2010 and detained. Investigators are now seeking search warrants for locations that may be relevant to the case.

"We are not focused solely on this person," said WSP Chief John R. Batiste. "While we believe this person is certainly worth a deeper look, we are continuing the broader investigation. We have talked to many people so far, and we will continue to contact individuals who might have information about Saturday's shooting."

WSP is still seeking tips from the public. In Washington, people can call 1-800-283-7808. Outside Washington, callers can provide tips at 1-360-405-6650.

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

A Bend-area man was arrested by Oregon State Police (OSP) Sunday following a two-vehicle minor injury crash south of Sunriver in which alcohol was determined to be a contributing factor. Both drivers were treated and released for minor injuries in the crash that occurred on Vandervert Road about one-half mile west of Highway 97.

According to OSP Sergeant Mitch Meyer, on February 14, 2010 at approximately 11:00 a.m. a 2004 Audi driven by CARLSON F. O'NEILL, age 32, from Bend, was traveling behind a 2002 Chevrolet Suburban driven by RENEE S. ROGERS, age 31, from Sunriver, westbound on Vandervert Road. O'NEILL was beginning an attempt to pass the Chevrolet Suburban at a high rate of speed in a no passing zone when it collided into the rear of the Suburban.

After impact, ROGERS was able to safely stop her vehicle. O'NEILL drove off the roadway and crashed into a tree on the south shoulder area.

ROGERS and O'NEILL were both transported to St. Charles Medical Center in Bend with minor injuries. Both were treated and released. Three passengers in the Chevrolet were not injured.

After being released from the hospital, OSP arrested O'NEILL for DUII, Assault in the Fourth Degree, and four counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person. He was lodged in the Deschutes County Jail.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1002/021410.vandervert.1.JPG

(Note: Victim was known by friends and family as BILL DAVIS)

The name of the 72-year old Lake Oswego-area man who died Sunday morning after he was swept out into the ocean while trying to rescue his dog off a Lincoln City-area beach is being released. Oregon State Police troopers from the Newport Area Command office are completing the investigation

On February 14, 2010 at approximately 9:00 a.m. RICHARD WILLIAM (aka "BILL) DAVIS, age 72, from Lake Oswego, was walking on the beach with his dog at the D River Wayside when he reportedly threw a stick into the water for his dog to retrieve. Witnesses stated the dog got caught by a wave and was pulled toward the surf when DAVIS went to help his dog. Another wave hit and pulled him away from the beach.

A witness attempted to save DAVIS but was unable to get him back to the beach. Witnesses kept visual track of him while emergency responders were notified.

North Lincoln Fire & Rescue arrived and a rescue swimmer reached DAVIS, bringing him back to shore where they started CPR. OSP troopers and Lincoln City police arrived during this time. His dog was able to get back to shore and survived.

DAVIS was transported by Pac West ambulance to Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital where he was pronounced deceased just before 10:00 a.m.

OSP Fish & Wildlife and Patrol Division troopers were on scene gathering witness statements when the victim's son approached them about the incident. He was visiting the Lincoln City area with some family members for the weekend. Troopers helped get family members to the hospital where they were able to positively identify DAVIS.

No photographs available for release.

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

The following news release is forwarded at the request of Washington State Patrol announcing a new TIP line number for calls from outside of Washington. Washington State Patrol established the number to handle a surprising number of calls from Oregon that the 800-number previously publicized did not connect outside the state of Washington.

Note TIP line numbers:

Outside Washington: 1-360-405-6650
Washington State Tip Line: 1-800-283-7808

(Long Beach) – Investigators from the Washington State Patrol and several other law enforcement agencies worked through the night following up leads regarding Saturday's shooting of Trooper Scott Johnson.

Many of the leads were developed based on tips from the public. While none has led detectives to the shooter, WSP Captain Steve Sutton is confident the right information will eventually be forthcoming.

"Some of the leads we're following are based on a combination of two tips received in different calls," Sutton said. "People should not hesitate to call with information, even if they think it's minor or irrelevant. Paired with information from other calls, that minor tidbit could be the case-breaker."

Johnson was shot shortly before 1:00 a.m. Saturday in the town of Long Beach, while inventorying the contents of a car that was about to be towed. A man walked up and a short conversation ensued. As Johnson returned his attention to the car, the man fired two shots at the back of Johnson's head.

Johnson is currently is good condition at Oregon Health and Sciences University in Portland.

WSP has been surprised at the number of tips coming in from Oregon, and learned overnight that the 800-number previously publicized does not connect outside the state of Washington. WSP has established a regular ten-digit number for calls from out-of-state. The number is 1-360-405-6650. WSP is also working to expand the coverage area of the existing 800-line.

"If you live in Oregon and tried to call in a tip, please try again at our new number. We very much want to hear from you," Sutton said.

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

A Toledo-area couple died and a third person was injured Thursday afternoon in a two-vehicle head-on crash on Highway 20 about five miles east of Newport. Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation. Names of the involved individuals are being released.

According to OSP Sergeant Justin McGladrey, on February 11, 2010 at approximately 4:55 p.m. a Subaru Forester driven by DEBRA A. SIMMONS, age 53, from Depoe Bay, was westbound on Highway 20 near milepost 5 when, for an undetermined reason, it crossed the centerline and crashed head-on with an eastbound Ford Ranger pickup occupied by two people. After impact, the vehicles came to rest in the eastbound lane and shoulder area.

Both occupants in the pickup were pronounced deceased at the scene. They are identified as driver JOHN EUGENE HUNTER, age 57, and passenger DEBRA ANNETTE HUNTER, age 55, both from Toledo.

SIMMONS was transported by Pac West ambulance to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital and then transferred by ground ambulance to Legacy Emanuel Hospital in Portland.

Safety restraint use information is not available at this time.

OSP troopers from the Newport Area Command office are continuing the investigation.

Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Toledo Police Department, Toledo Fire Department, and ODOT assisted at the scene. Highway 20 was closed about three hours with a detour established.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1002/021110.fatalx2.hwy20mp5.1.JPG

Oregon State Police and Clackamas County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help to identify the person(s) responsible for cutting trees along Highway 26 in the Cherryville area east of Sandy, causing the trees to either fall onto the highway or onto power lines. During the last two weeks troopers and deputies have responded to four separate incidents, one of which resulting in a non-injury crash when a vehicle ran into one of the downed trees.

The incidents have been happening late at night, approximately 11:00 p.m., along the south side of Highway 26 near Baty Road and E. Terra Fern Drive about six miles east of Sandy. The latest incident happened February 7, 2009 at about 11:00 p.m. when an eastbound vehicle hit a fallen tree that appears to have been purposely cut to block the highway. In another incident about five trees were cut along E. Terra Fern Drive and fell onto power lines.

Each investigation indicates the trees are being cut using chainsaws and axes. None of the trees were taken by the person(s) responsible for cutting them.

What is starting out as a case of criminal mischief could quickly escalate into a very serious crime if someone is injured or killed because of a vehicle encounter with an intentionally downed tree on a highway.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked contact OSP Northern Command Center dispatch at 800-452-7888 or Clackamas County Sheriff's Office.

ODOT, Sandy Fire Department, and PGE have responded to these incidents to assist with clean up and some power outages reported by area residents.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1002/hwy26.trees.1.JPG , 2010-02/1002/hwy26.trees.2.JPG , 2010-02/1002/hwy26.trees.3.JPG , 2010-02/1002/hwy26.trees.4.JPG , 2010-02/1002/hwy26.trees.5.JPG

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into a Wednesday night fatal traffic crash about two miles south of Creswell that resulted in the death of a 38-year old Creswell-area man riding a bicycle.

According to OSP Sergeant Andy Kenyon, on February 10, 2010 at approximately 9:20 p.m. a 2002 Ford Focus driven by JENNIFER L. PORTER, age 23, from Creswell, was northbound on Highway 99 near milepost 9. As PORTER was passing a northbound bicyclist that was on the narrow shoulder, a southbound 2002 Chrysler Sebring driven by TINA MAE BAKER, age 38, from Oakridge, was passing another southbound vehicle and sideswiped the Ford Focus in the northbound lane. After colliding with each other, the Chrysler continued across the northbound lane and struck the bicycle operated by JOHN MARSH CAYTON, age 38.

CAYTON was pronounced deceased at the scene. Investigating troopers found no evidence that his bicycle had lighting or reflective equipment. He was not wearing a protective helmet.

BAKER and her three female passengers, ages 15, 17 and 19, were transported by ambulance for an examination at Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend. They were using safety restraints.

PORTER and a 4-month old female child were not injured. Both were using appropriate safety restraints.

OSP troopers from the Springfield Area Command office are continuing the investigation which upon completion will be provided to the Lane County District Attorney's office for review. No enforcement decision made pending completion of investigation and review.

Lane Rural Fire Department, South Lane Fire EMS and ODOT assisted at the scene. The highway was closed about four hours during the scene investigation.

No photographs available for release.

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

A Wednesday morning Oregon State Police (OSP) traffic stop near Ashland led to the discovery of approximately 7.5 lbs. of methamphetamine and the arrest of four people from the Portland metro area. The seized drugs have an estimated value of approximately $150,000.

According to OSP Lieutenant Kelly Collins, on February 10, 2010 at approximately 6:45 a.m. an OSP senior trooper stopped a 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe displaying Oregon license plates for a speed violation northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 11. The vehicle was occupied by three adult males, a 17-year old female and her one-year old child. The three adult males were identified as driver ISRAEL GARCIA-JUAREZ, age 27, from Beaverton, and passengers FRANCISCO JAVIER ROMERO-PEREZ, age 21, and ARON CERVANTES-HERNANDEZ, age 32, both from Portland. The 17-year old female and her child were also from Portland.

Subsequent investigation related to the traffic stop led to the discovery and seizure of approximately 7.5 lbs. of methamphetamine concealed in the vehicle.

The three men and juvenile female were taken into custody on the following charges:

GARCIA-JUAREZ
* Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine
* Unlawful Distribution of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine
* Unlawful Manufacture of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine
* Hold placed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement

ROMERO-PEREZ
* Same charges as posted above for GARCIA-JUAREZ
* Endangering the Welfare of a Minor

CERVANTES-HERNANDEZ
* Same charges as posted above for GARCIA-JUAREZ

The men were lodged in the Jackson County Jail with bail over $1 million. The juvenile female was detained at the Jackson County Juvenile Detention Facility for Endangering the Welfare of a Minor. The child was placed into the custody of Department of Human Services.

OSP troopers involved in the traffic stop and arrests were assisted by OSP Drug Enforcement Section detectives assigned to the DEA task force and Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) team, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

Photograph Sources:
* Suspect photos - Jackson County Sheriff's Office
* Methamphetamine photos – Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1002/021010.i5mp11.meth.JPG , 2010-02/1002/021010.Romero_Perez.jpg , 2010-02/1002/021010.Cervantes_Hernandez.jpg , 2010-02/1002/021010.Garcia_Juarez.jpg

Three individuals from Washington State were arrested Wednesday afternoon when an Oregon State Police (OSP) traffic stop led to the discovery of three pounds Marijuana, Ecstasy, Illegal prescription medications, and weapons. The value of the seized marijuana is approximately $10,000.

On February 10, 2010 at approximately 12:53 p.m. an OSP trooper from the Springfield Area Command office stopped a 1992 Pontiac passenger car traveling northbound on Interstate 5 near Eugene for several traffic violations. The subsequent investigation led to the discovery of more the 3 pounds of packaged marijuana concealed in the trunk. The trooper also discovered 14 tablets of Ecstasy (MDMA), illegal prescription medications (Vicodin), a stun gun, a collapsible baton, burglar tools and other evidence pertaining to the Unlawful Possession and Distribution of marijuana.

The operator, JUSTIN MITCHELL JOY, age 24, from Lakewood, Washington was taken into custody for Unlawful Possession and Distribution of a Controlled Substance - Marijuana, Unlawful Possession of - MDMA (Ecstasy), and Unlawful Possession of Burglar tools.

The female passenger and owner of the vehicle, HAVAH EISENMANN, age 24, from Republic, Washington was taken into custody for Unlawful Possession and Distribution of a Controlled Substance - Marijuana, and Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance - Vicodin.

A male passenger identified as PHILIP ERIC WITKO Jr, age 22, from Kent, Washington was taken into custody for Unlawful Possession and Distribution of a Controlled Substance - Marijuana, and Felon in Possession of a Restricted Weapon (Stun Gun).

All three were lodged at the Lane County Jail.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1002/021010.i5.drugs.5.JPG , 2010-02/1002/021010.Eisenmann.JPG , 2010-02/1002/021010.Witko.JPG , 2010-02/1002/021010.Joy.JPG

Tillamook County District Attorney William Porter announced that the ongoing investigation into vandalism to the historic Cape Meares Lighthouse in January 2010 has led the arrest of two men Wednesday. The men were arrested in Florence where they worked following the execution of a search warrant at their Oceanside residence the same day. Both have bailed from jail and will be scheduled a future court appearance.

Subsequent to ongoing investigative efforts helped by a tip, investigators served a search warrant February 10, 2010 at an Oceanside residence located in the 200 block of Hillsdale Street W. The following agencies were involved in Wednesday's ongoing investigation and search warrant execution:

* OSP Criminal Investigations Division detectives
* OSP Patrol and Fish & Wildlife Division troopers
* Tillamook County Sheriff's Office
* Tillamook Police Department
* U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Services
* Tillamook County District Attorney's Office

Detectives seized evidence related to the ongoing investigation that started January 10th when several rounds were fired breaking 15 windows of the Cape Meares Lighthouse and several pieces of a historic Fresnel lens. Additional rounds were fired into an active Coast Guard light and surrounding equipment. The suspects allegedly drove down a blocked maintenance road in a vehicle to the lighthouse viewing area, and while driving away the vehicle caused damaged a grassy area.

According to Oregon Parks & Recreation Department officials, the lighthouse lenses were very old with much historical value and were irreplaceable. Further review and estimates now place damage over a half million dollars.

Wednesday afternoon, OSP detectives and troopers arrested ZACHARY JON PYLE, age 23, and DAVID REIGN WILKS JR., age 26, at a Florence-area construction site where both men worked. OSP transported both men to the Tillamook County Jail where they were booked on the following charges:

* Criminal Mischief in the First Degree (Class C Felony)
* Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree (Class A Misdemeanor)
* Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree (Class C Misdemeanor)
* Recklessly Endangering Another Person (Class A Misdemeanor)
* Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree (Class B Misdemeanor)

Both men posted bail and were released pending a to-be-announced future appearance in Tillamook County Circuit Court. Questions regarding a future court appearance should be directed to the Tillamook County District Attorney's Office.

"We want to thank the prompt, professional investigative skills of the Oregon State Police, US Coast Guard Investigative Services and Tillamook County area law enforcement agencies for bringing us to this point," says Tim Wood, Director, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. "We have a substantial, even daunting, task ahead of us, but it is made much easier with continued leadership from the Coast Guard, and help from the Friends of Cape Meares and the many people who have stepped forward to offer their moral and financial support."

About ten miles west of Tillamook, Cape Meares Lighthouse went into service January 1890. The lighthouse lens was manufactured in Paris, France and shipped around Cape Horn up to Oregon, arriving for installation prior to the date the lighthouse went into service.

A reward of up to $6,000 was offered by Oregon Parks & Recreation Department and The Friends of Cape Meares.

Photograph Source: Tillamook County Sheriff's Office

Previously release information and photograph links are available on the OSP website at:

http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/NEWSRL/news/01_11_2010_capemeares_lighthouse_vandalism.shtml

http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/NEWSRL/news/01_12_2010_update_capemeares_vandalism.shtml

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


Attached Media Files: Wilks , Pyle

Contact: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tom Gauntt, Pacific Power, March 8, 2010
503-813-7291


Keep your family safe around electricity in your home

PORTLAND, Ore. — Electricity plays an important role in each of our lives. It lights homes, runs businesses and makes many daily tasks easier. However, if safety rules are not followed, the power of electricity also can be harmful. It's important to remember there is enough power at every electrical outlet to cause serious injury or even death if proper electrical safety precautions aren't taken. Children deserve special concern around electricity.

"Parents and caregivers are urged to protect children and others from electrical injury by regularly checking to ensure their homes are free from potential hazards," said Chris Myers, Pacific Power safety director. "Instruct children at a young age on how to avoid unsafe behavior around electrical equipment both inside and outside of the home."

Electrical safety information and free safety materials are available online at www.pacificpower.net/safety. Or call toll free at 800-375-7085.

Myers also recommends checking to ensure that safe conditions exist in daycare facilities, in hotel rooms when traveling, and in the homes of neighbors and friends where children play.

Pacific Power offers the following reminders for safely using electricity inside the home:

• Don't overload electrical circuits. This is a common cause of fires.
• Use outlet plug covers if small children live in the house.
• Never use electrical appliances near water. Hair dryers, radios and other bathroom or kitchen appliances should be kept away from sinks and tubs.
• Use extension cords wisely. Never exceed the load rating, always dispose of damaged cords and don't use extension cords as a replacement for permanent wiring.
• Attach extension cords to appliances before plugging them into outlets.
• Always disconnect by pulling on the plug – not the cord.
• Unplug appliances before attempting any repairs.
• Use three-pronged grounded plugs only in three-prong outlets; never cut the third prong off a plug.
• Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters – outlets with test and reset buttons – in bathrooms, garages, near kitchen sinks and outdoors, as they are designed to shut off power during a short circuit or grounding event.

• When performing electrical do-it-yourself projects around the home, always turn off circuit breakers and then test circuits to make sure they are de-energized before performing any work. Professional electricians can help ensure large projects are done according to electrical codes for your home.

About Pacific Power
In 2010, Pacific Power celebrates 100 years serving customers and communities. From our beginnings -- serving 7,000 customers in four Northwest communities -- Pacific Power now provides electric service to more than 724,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. Our goal is to provide our customers with value for their energy dollar, and safe, reliable electricity, for another 100 years. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 1.7 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.



###

Contact: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tom Gauntt, Pacific Power, March 1, 2010
503-813-7291


Green Projects Wanted!
Pacific Power Blue Sky program seeks applicants
for community-based renewable energy project funding

PORTLAND, Ore. – Got a bright idea for making Oregon, Washington or California greener? Could you use a little green to help make your project a reality? Beginning March 8, 2010, Pacific Power will accept applications for community-based renewable energy project funding from its Blue Sky renewable energy program.

For 10 years now, Pacific Power's participating Blue Sky customers have made a difference by supporting renewable energy in the region. Just since 2006, Blue Sky customers also have helped fund 29 new community-based renewable energy projects in Oregon, Washington and California. Many of these projects are now completed, generating electricity and providing educational opportunities about the advancement of renewable energy.

"We're honored to be able to offer these funding awards to help support new community-based renewable energy projects in our service area," said Pat Egan, vice president of customer and community affairs for Pacific Power. "We look forward to seeing this round of applications and selecting projects that demonstrate significant community benefit for our customers."

To be considered in this competitive application process, interested parties must complete and submit an application form along with supporting materials by 5 p.m. on Friday, May 14, 2010. Applications will be accepted beginning March 8.

Renewable energy projects that are eligible for funding awards from Pacific Power's Blue Sky program may include those that support technologies such as wind, solar, biomass, wave, landfill gas, certified low-impact hydro and geothermal.

This funding is available for projects in Pacific Power's service area that are locally owned and have a generating capacity of less than 10 megawatts of electricity. Projects must be completed within two years of the receipt of funding and should focus on encouraging renewable energy market transformation. Preference is given to local, community-based projects that develop renewable energy generation, support educational efforts to bring broader understanding of renewable energy development and generation, and/or invest in research and demonstration of new generation technologies.

Funding is not available for off-grid projects or projects from private individuals. For detailed criteria on project qualifications and application forms, please go to: www.pacificpower.net/blueskyfunds.

Entries should be thorough, and should be submitted with supporting materials such as photographs, schematics, drawings, cut sheets, narratives or anything the applicant considers useful in the project evaluation.

Materials may be submitted by mail, fax or e-mail to:
Pacific Power
Attn: Blue Sky Fund Award
1900 SW 4th Ave. – Plaza
Portland, OR 97201
Fax: 800-754-3114
E-mail: blueskyprojects@pacificpower.net

The amount available for funding awards varies year to year. In 2009, Pacific Power gave Blue Sky funding awards totaling $394,750to 8 renewable energy projects in its service area. This funding is made possible thanks to participating Blue Sky customers.

How Blue Sky Works

When a customer enrolls in Blue Sky, Pacific Power purchases Green-e Energy-certified renewable energy certificates on their behalf from wind energy facilities in the region. Blue Sky funds also help support the development of smaller-scale renewable energy projects in local communities. About 39,200 Pacific Power customers currently buy Blue Sky renewable energy.

Separate from Blue Sky, Pacific Power is investing in cost-effective renewable energy to serve its customers through company-owned generation and renewable energy purchases.

"Our successful Blue Sky program, coupled with the large investments we are making in cost-effective renewable energy projects, demonstrates our company's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship," said Egan. "We see these funding awards as another strong component of our overall commitment to our customers and communities, encouraging their initiative in growing renewable energy at the local level."

-30-


About Blue Sky
Strong customer support has enabled the Blue Sky program to be instrumental in the creation of more federally recognized Green Power Communities than any other program in the nation. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has ranked Blue Sky fifth or better in the nation for the sixth consecutive year in the number of customers buying renewable power and for renewable power sales volume. Blue Sky was named national 2007 Green Power Program of the Year by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. The program is Green-e Energy Certified, which means the renewable energy supported meets the rigorous national environmental and consumer-protection standards established by the nonprofit Center for Resource Solutions. For more information on Green-e Energy, visit www.green-e.org/energy. More than 39,000 customers in the Northwest are part of Blue Sky.

About Pacific Power
In 2010, Pacific Power celebrates 100 years serving customers and communities. From our beginnings -- serving 7,000 customers in four Northwest communities -- Pacific Power now provides electric service to more than 724,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. Our goal is to provide our customers with value for their energy dollar, and safe, reliable electricity, for another 100 years. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 1.7 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.



###

Media Contact:
Tom Gauntt, Pacific Power Feb. 10, 2010
503-813-7291 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Note to News Desk: Times are tough in this bad news economy, and we're hoping you can help us get an important message out to those who are struggling to pay their bills. In many cases these are people who've not found themselves in this situation before, and are not aware of available options. We appreciate any help you can provide in getting this information to our mutual audience. Please let us know if you have any questions or would like additional information.

Pacific Power can help with financial issues

Even though some indicators are beginning to point upward, there are still many households struggling in our area to make ends meet, many for the first time. These people may not know where to turn for help.

Pacific Power is one place to turn, both as a resource for those struggling to pay the electric bill and for those looking for help in managing overall energy usage. Pacific Power encourages customers to contact them at the first sign they may not be able to pay their energy bills, while it is still easier to manage the situation.

Pacific Power has a variety of options to help those facing financial hardships. These options include working out a plan to spread payments out over a longer period. Pacific Power also offers an Equal Pay Plan, better on the budget as it can equalize the amount due each month. And, if the current monthly due date is a problem, in many cases Pacific Power can change it to a more convenient day for the customer.

There are other options available to income eligible households, including agencies that can provide energy assistance. Please call Pacific Power and they can direct you to the appropriate agencies and other resources.

Times are tough. It may feel like a hard call to make, but Pacific Power has trained, highly knowledgeable people who want to help. Look to these people for help finding the answers you need by calling toll free at 1-888-221-7070.

###

Contact: Tom Gauntt, 503-813-7291 Feb. 9,2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Business customers give Pacific Power high marks in national satisfaction study
Pacific Power moves up to No.2 in J.D. Power and Associates study of large electric utilities in West

PORTLAND, Ore. – Despite an economic downturn that has many business customers grinding their teeth, Pacific Power customers are feeling good about the electric utility's level of service in J.D. Power and Associates' 2010 Electric Utility Business Customer Satisfaction StudySM released Feb. 3.
Pacific Power ranked second among comparably sized electric utilities in the West, moving up one spot from the 2009 study. Pacific Power also scored 26 points above this year's segment average. For a complete ranking, go to the J.D. Power and Associates website.
"It is a tremendous honor to be recognized by our customers in this way," said Pat Reiten, president of Pacific Power. "So many of our business customers are experiencing struggles every day and it would be easy for them to unload some of their frustration on their power company. But their responses to the survey show that they are seeing the value of our relationship with them, our dedicated employees and our system investments are providing, and that is immensely gratifying."
The J.D. Power and Associates study is based on interviews with representatives of more than 16,000 U.S. businesses that spend between $500 and $50,000 monthly on electricity. More than 90 utilities serving a total of more than 11.7 million business customers are included in the study. Overall customer satisfaction is measured by examining six factors: power quality and reliability; billing and payment; corporate citizenship; price; communications, and customer service.
Nationally, overall customer satisfaction averaged 646 on a 1,000-point scale in 2010.
Pacific Power customers showed strong satisfaction with their power supplier by giving the utility a score of 684. That is an increase from last year, when the company ranked third overall in the West with a score of 658. In the 2009 study, J.D. Power and Associates did not break out the West into large and midsize utilities.
"Providing excellent customer service is a key business principle that has been part of Pacific Power since it started 100 years ago," said Pat Egan, vice president for customer and community affairs. "In today's challenging economic environment, our customers rely on us, perhaps more than ever before, to go above and beyond with customer service. We have taken extra measures to do outreach with customers to ensure they have information about the investments we are making and to provide them with information about energy efficiency and other programs to help businesses manage their power usage and costs."
A key element of this outreach has been the creation of Pacific Power's Business Toolkit. The toolkit is a package of free, online resources that provide customers advice and information for managing their energy use and costs.
"The latest J.D. Power and Associates study results demonstrate that these efforts and others are recognized by our customers," said Egan. "Our employees deserve the credit for delivering exceptional customer service and high satisfaction levels and our customers deserve the credit for the strength of our relationship with them."
###
About Pacific Power
In 2010, Pacific Power celebrates 100 years serving customers and communities. From our beginnings -- serving 7,000 customers in four Northwest communities -- Pacific Power now provides electric service to more than 724,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. Our goal is to provide our customers with value for their energy dollar, and safe, reliable electricity, for another 100 years. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 1.7 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.

MEDIA ADVISORY
B-Roll Advisory# 100309-01
Date: March 09, 2010

Oregon National Guard Hosts Bangladesh Dignitaries
Oregon Military Department PAO

SALEM, Ore. – Video includes soldiers and airmen with the Oregon National Guard hosting dignitaries from the Bangladesh Military during a week-long visit for the State Partnership Program, which is designed to share knowledge and foster cultural exchange. Key figures in video include – Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard, Maj. Gen. Abdul Wadud, Principal Staff Officer of Armed Forces Division, Bangladesh, and Willis L. Van Dusen, Mayor of Astoria. During March 8 visit, Bangladesh dignitaries visited the Portland Air National Guard Base, Portland, Ore., and Camp Rilea on the Northern Oregon Coast.

Video can be obtained through the following link:
http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=video/video_show.php&id=80763

Produced by Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Hartman, Oregon Military Department, Public Affairs Office

-30-
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT OREGON MILITARY DEPARTMENT PAO AT:503-584-3917

THIS HIGH RESOLUTION VIDEO IS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST FROM THE
DIGITAL VIDEO AND IMAGERY DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM (DVIDS) BY CALLING (678) 421-6604 OR BY ACCESSING THE DVIDS WEB SITE AT
WWW.DVIDSHUB.NET.

100307-F-6642T-061
Brig. Gen. Mohd Habibur Rahman Khan, Commandant of MIST, Military Institute of Science and Technology and other members of a top military contingent from Bangladesh make their way across the ramp after arriving at the 173rd Fighter Wing for the first visit of its kind to the Southern Oregon Base. Col. James Miller (left), the 173rd Fighter Wing commander showed the three members around the base as well as Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon, and other top leadership from the Oregon National Guard, March 7. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech Sgt. Jeff Thompson, 173rd Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office)


100307-F-6642T-162
Col. James Miller (left), the 173rd Fighter Wing Commander, explains Kingsley Field operations to Maj. Gen. Abdul Wadud, Principal Staff Officer Armed Forces Division, Bangladesh the top military member from Bangladesh. Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees (center), The Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard, accompanied the Bangladeshi military contingent during their visit, which was part of the State Partnership Program and the first visit of its kind for the Southern Oregon Base in Klamath Falls, Ore., March 7. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech Sgt. Jeff Thompson, 173rd Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office)



100308-A-5706H-001
Willis L. Van Dusen, Astoria Mayor, greets Maj. Gen. Abdul Wadud, Principal Staff Officer of Armed Forces Division, Bangladesh, during a tour of Camp Rilea, Ore., March 8. The visit is part of a week long tour designed to foster relations between the Oregon National Guard and the Bangladesh military through the State Partnership Program. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Hartman, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs Office)



100308-A-5706H-002
Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard, welcomes Maj. Gen. Abdul Wadud, Principal Staff Officer of Armed Forces Division, Bangladesh, to Oregon at the Portland Air National Guard Base, Ore., March 8. The visit is part of a week long tour designed to foster relations between the Oregon National Guard and the Bangladesh military through the State Partnership Program. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Hartman, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs Office)



100308-F-1639C-001
Bangladeshi Maj. Gen. Abdul Wadud, Principal Staff Officer, Armed Forces Division shakes hands with Col. Ronald Kessinger, Chief of Staff, Oregon Air National Guard, during a visit to Portland Air National Guard Base, Portland, Ore., March 8. Wadud is a member of the State Partnership Program, visiting Oregon as part of a week long tour designed to foster relations between the Oregon National Guard and the Bangladesh military. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Tech Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department, Public Affairs Office)


100308-F-1639C-002
Capt. Charles Patzner, Rear Detachment Commander, Bravo Company, 141 Brigade Support Battalion gives Bangladeshi Brig. Gen. Mohd Habibur Rahman Khan, Acting Commandant, Military Institute of Science & Technology, a tour of a Mobile Kitchen Trailer at Kliever Armory in Portland, Ore., March 8. Khan is a member of the State Partnership Program, visiting Oregon as part of a week long tour designed to foster relations between the Oregon National Guard and the Bangladesh military. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Tech Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon Military Department, Public Affairs Office)


Attached Media Files: Capt. Charles Patzner, Rear Detachment Commander, Bravo Company, 141 Brigade Support Battalion gives Bangladeshi Brig. Gen. Mohd Habibur Rahman Khan, Acting Commandant, Military Institute of Science & Technology, a tour of a Mobile Kitchen Trailer at Klie , Bangladeshi Maj. Gen. Abdul Wadud, Principal Staff Officer, Armed Forces Division shakes hands with Col. Ronald Kessinger, Chief of Staff, Oregon Air National Guard, during a visit to Portland Air National Guard Base, Portland, Ore., March 8. Wadud is a m , Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard, welcomes Maj. Gen. Abdul Wadud, Principal Staff Officer of Armed Forces Division, Bangladesh, to Oregon at the Portland Air National Guard Base, Ore., March 8. The visit is part of a , Willis L. Van Dusen, Astoria Mayor, greets Maj. Gen. Abdul Wadud, Principal Staff Officer of Armed Forces Division, Bangladesh, during a tour of Camp Rilea, Ore., March 8. The visit is part of a week long tour designed to foster relations between the Ore , Col. James Miller (left), the 173rd Fighter Wing Commander, explains Kingsley Field operations to Maj. Gen. Abdul Wadud, Principal Staff Officer Armed Forces Division, Bangladesh the top military member from Bangladesh. Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees (center), , Brig. Gen. Mohd Habibur Rahman Khan, Commandant of MIST, Military Institute of Science and Technology and other members of a top military contingent from Bangladesh make their way across the ramp after arriving at the 173rd Fighter Wing for the first visi

SALEM, Ore. -- The Oregon National Guard is hosting senior members of the Bangladeshi military during the State Partnership Program Workshop, Mar. 8-11, in Portland, Ore.

The workshop is designed to foster mutual interests and establish long-term relationships between Oregon and Bangladesh. Some of the topics covered during this workshop will be airport security, maritime port security, higher education and business opportunities.

Other dignitaries attending this historic event are James F. Moriarty, U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh; Akramul Qader, Bangladeshi Ambassador to the United States; and Gen. Craig R. McKinley, Chief of the National Guard Bureau.

Oregon Governor, Ted Kulongoski, is scheduled to have an audience with both ambassadors before attending portions of the workshop.

Senior leaders in the Oregon National Guard, including Maj. Gen. Raymond F. Rees, The Adjutant General, are taking the Bangladeshi military members on a tour of Oregon, including the Oregon Military Department, Anderson Readiness Center and Army Aviation Support Facility in Salem; the Portland Air National Guard Base in Portland, Ore., and Kingsley Field in Klamath Falls prior to the workshop.

The group is scheduled to meet with directors and staff at the Port of Portland, Portland International Airport, and Portland State University. Event organizers say the tours will allow the visitors to get a good grasp of Oregon's military resources, in addition to civilian, business, and educational offerings in the state.

The State Partnership Program currently provides 61 partnerships between states and nations. The program continues to grow, and is endorsed at both the National Guard Bureau level and the State Department.


Photo Caption:
100308-A-5706H-001
Willis L. Van Dusen, Astoria Mayor, greets Maj. Gen. Abdul Wadud, Principal Staff Officer of Armed Forces Division, Bangladesh, during a tour of Camp Rilea, Ore., March 8. The visit is part of a week long tour designed to foster relations between the Oregon National Guard and the Bangladesh military through the State Partnership Program. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Hartman, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs Office)


Attached Media Files: Willis L. Van Dusen, Astoria Mayor, greets Maj. Gen. Abdul Wadud, Principal Staff Officer of Armed Forces Division, Bangladesh, during a tour of Camp Rilea, Ore., March 8. The visit is part of a week long tour designed to foster relations between the Ore

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Army National Guard OH-58 helicopter assisting the Union County Sheriff's Office in a search and rescue operation returned to the Salem Army Aviation Support Facility.

Searchers located the body of 13 year old Nathan Cain in a remote area of Union County at 11:40 a.m. on Monday, March 1st.

See the attached press release from the Union County Sheriff's Office for details.


Attached Media Files: Union County Sheriff's Office Press Release

SALEM, Ore. -- The Oregon Army National Guard is supporting Union County Sherriff's Office in a search effort using an OH-58 Kiowa helicopter in the Horseshoe Prairie area near Elgin, Oregon, Umatilla National Forest.

The OH-58 launched from the Army Aviation Support Facility #2, in Pendleton, at 8:30 a.m. to assist in the search for a 13 year old cross country skier who was reported missing Saturday afternoon.

Union County Sherriff's Office is the lead agency coordinating for all search efforts.

"Our helicopter and crew will continue to support the search and rescue operation as long as the Union Sheriff's Office requests our help," said Col. Todd Farmer, Oregon State Army Aviation Officer.

There are approximately 3,100 soldiers and airmen from the Oregon National Guard deployed around the world in support of federal missions leaving approximately 5,700 guard members along with a variety of equipment to support domestic needs.

For the Army Fact File on the OH-58 Kiowa go to: http://www.army.mil/factfiles/equipment/aircraft/kiowa.html

*** PHOTO RELEASE ***

On Feb. 22, 2010, members of the Oregon National Guard's 102nd Civil Support Team assisted Polk County Sheriffs, Salem Police, and Salem Fire Departments, in a West Salem neighborhood, following a civil disturbance.

According to a Polk County Sheriffs spokesperson, suspected bomb-making materials were located in a residence in West Salem. Law enforcement officials took one adult into custody, and members of the Salem Police Bomb Squad and 102 CST collaborated on rendering the materials safe.

The incident is currently under investigation.


Photo Captions:

100222-F-1639C-022.JPG: Members of the Oregon National Guard's 102 Civil Support Team consult with personnel from the Polk County Sheriff Department, Salem Fire Department and Salem Police Department in a West Salem neighborhood, where investigators found evidence of bomb making materials, Feb 22. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office).

100222-F-1639C-027.JPG: Members of the Oregon National Guard's 102 Civil Support Team prepare to assist personnel from the Polk County Sheriff Department, Salem Fire Department and Salem Police Department in a West Salem neighborhood, where investigators found evidence of bomb making materials, Feb. 22. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office).

100222-F-1639C-072.JPG: Members of the Oregon National Guard's 102 Civil Support Team deploy their equipment in a West Salem neighborhood Feb. 22, where law enforcement officials found evidence of bomb-making materials in one of the residences there. The 102 CST worked with the Polk County Sheriff Department, Salem Fire Department and Salem Police Department to provide multi-agency support during the incident. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office).

100222-F-1639C-078.JPG: Members of the Oregon National Guard's 102 Civil Support Team consult with personnel from the Polk County Sheriff Department, Salem Fire Department and Salem Police Department in a West Salem neighborhood, where investigators found evidence of bomb making materials, Feb. 22. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nick Choy, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office).

100222-A-5611R-001
Members of the Oregon National Guard's 102 Civil Support Team survey the scene as personnel from the Polk County Sheriff's Department, Salem Fire Department, Salem Police Department and other CST members discuss the situation, after investigators found evidence of bomb making materials Feb. 22. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Eric Rutherford, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs.)

100222-A-5611R-002
Lt. Col. Lance Englet, Commander of the 102 Civil Support Team, Oregon National Guard, surveys the scene with members of Salem Fire Department, Polk County Sheriff's Office and Salem Police Department during a multi-agency investigation in a West Salem, Ore., neighborhood, after investigators found evidence of bomb making materials, Feb. 22. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Eric Rutherford, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs.)


Attached Media Files: Lt. Col. Lance Englet, Commander of the 102 Civil Support Team, Oregon National Guard, surveys the scene with members of Salem Fire Department, Polk County Sheriff’s Office and Salem Police Department during a multi-agency investigation in a West Salem, O , Members of the Oregon National Guard's 102 Civil Support Team survey the scene as personnel from the Polk County Sheriff's Department, Salem Fire Department, Salem Police Department and other CST members discuss the situation, after investigators found ev , 100222-F-1639C-078.JPG: Members of the Oregon National Guard's 102 Civil Support Team consult with personnel from the Polk County Sheriff Department, Salem Fire Department and Salem Police Department in a West Salem neighborhood, where investigators found , 100222-F-1639C-072.JPG: Members of the Oregon National Guard's 102 Civil Support Team deploy their equipment in a West Salem neighborhood Feb. 22, where law enforcement officials found evidence of bomb-making materials in one of the residences there. The , 100222-F-1639C-027.JPG: Members of the Oregon National Guard's 102 Civil Support Team prepare to assist personnel from the Polk County Sheriff Department, Salem Fire Department and Salem Police Department in a West Salem neighborhood, where investigators , Members of the Oregon National Guard's 102 Civil Support Team consult with personnel from the Polk County Sheriff Department, Salem Fire Department and Salem Police Department in a West Salem neighborhood, where investigators found evidence of bomb making

SALEM, Ore – Oregon Emergency Management (OEM) and Senate President Peter Courtney announced today that letters have been sent to public entities that were selected to receive the first round of seismic rehabilitation grants.

Thirteen public education buildings and 11 emergency services facilities will receive funds totaling $15 million dollars. The Seismic Rehabilitation Grant Program (SRGP) provides funds to strengthen public school and emergency service buildings. This will ensure the safety of students and staff in the event of an earthquake and allow emergency service facilities to remain functional.

In 2002, Oregon voters approved Ballot Measures 15 and 16 amending the Constitution to allow the state to issue general obligation bonds for seismic rehabilitation of public education buildings and emergency services buildings. Subsequently, Courtney sponsored a series of companion bills directing a statewide seismic risk assessment, methodology and direction to implement the Seismic Grants Program.

"We know the big one is coming. It's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when," Courtney said. "These grants will mean more of Oregon's schools and emergency facilities will be prepared for that day while creating hundreds of jobs throughout the state."

The committee made its recommendations for funding to Ken Murphy, Director of Oregon Emergency Management who, after thorough review, approved their recommendations.

"This is a very positive step towards saving lives and property in Oregon and could not have been accomplished without Senator Courtney," Murphy said. "We owe him a debt of gratitude."

A 2007 report from Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries shows over 1,000 school and emergency services buildings at high or very high risk for collapse during an earthquake.

For more information about the SRGP, visit Oregon Emergency Management's website at: http://www.oregon.gov/OMD/OEM/index.shtml

SALEM - Oregon Business Development Commissioner Steve Emery has been chosen as the 2010 Oregon Small Business Person of the Year by the US Small Business Administration.
The SBA recognized Emery's achievements as president and CEO of the Culver, Oregon-based Earth2o water company. Earth2o bottles and distributes pure 100% natural spring water, sourced directly from the aquifer that feeds Opal Springs.
"We are very proud of Steve for winning this honor," said Tim McCabe, Director of the Oregon Business Development Department. "Steve has served the state for the last three years as OBD commissioner and brought a critical perspective and good ideas to our efforts to retain and create jobs for Oregonians."
Earth2o is the top selling spring water in the Pacific Northwest and the third largest branded water sold. Emery joined Earth2o in 1999, after serving as Vice President/General Manager for Columbia Distributing in Portland from 1994 to 1998. He has more than 11 years experience in regional and international sales and marketing for wine distributors as well.
"It is an incredible honor for myself and the employees of Earth2o", said Emery. "Like most small businesses in our state, our success hasn't come without its challenges. During this time we have stayed true to our core beliefs of providing a natural product in the most sustainable way possible with strong support for our community. We are fortunate that the Northwest distributors, retailers and consumers share those values which have led to the success of our brand."
Emery served as the past Chairman of the Governor's Small Business Council and acted as the director of two non-profit organizations: The Freshwater Trust and the National Spring Water Association. He was appointed by the Governor to oversee the Oregon Nanotechnology and Microtechnology budget, converting University research into commercial applications.
As an award winner, Emery has been invited to participate in events for National Small Business Week 2010 this May in Washington, D.C.

###

The OREGON BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT works to create, retain, expand and attract businesses that provide sustainable, living-wage jobs for Oregonians through public-private partnerships, leveraged funding, and support of economic opportunities for Oregon companies and entrepreneurs. Visit www.oregon4biz.com for more information on doing business in Oregon.
---
Earth-pure, Northwest-perfect, Earth2o is 100% natural spring water sourced from a single pristine location in Opal Springs, OR. It is one of the world's best waters by nature: unprocessed, unmanipulated, naturally filtered by thousands of layers of volcanic basalt native to the area. Earth2o's core company principles of sustainability, responsibility and service to the community turn a respect for nature into exemplary business practices. See more of our story at www.earth2o.com.

TOKYO - The director of the Oregon Business Development Department, Tim McCabe, and officials from Ferrotec, a world leader in the manufacturing of Single Crystal Si Growing System and Quartz Crucible, today announced the planned opening of the company's new solar crucible manufacturing plant in a suburb of Portland, Oregon.

The Ferrotec Portland area plant will open in mid-2010 and will producing quartz crucibles to support Oregon's established and rapidly growing solar manufacturing. The company estimates the Oregon plant will employ 30 full time employees after the start up phase. Ferrotec is designing the plant to provide rapid response to the growing Oregon and West Coast solar industry. Quartz crucibles are essential components of the ingot manufacturing process and Oregon has over 425 MW of Crystalline solar manufacturing capacity currently in production with additional capacity scheduled for the near future.

"This is great news for Oregon and for our growing solar industry," said McCabe, who was attending the third annual Tokyo PV Exposition along with Ferrotec officials. "Market leaders such as Ferrotec are a critical piece of our investment plans to grow Oregon's solar industry. Oregon is committed to shortening the supply chain, driving costs down and growing demand."

Ferrotec officials said Oregon had beaten out competing states to land the manufacturing facility.

"After investigating a number of potential locations for establishing a facility in the United States, we selected Oregon for its combination of business opportunities, support structure and incentives necessary to make our investment a success, said Akira Yamamura, president of Ferrotec Corporation. "We look forward to working with Oregon in the coming months as we become part of their expanding solar manufacturing community and make this new facility a reality."

Ferrotec's Oregon plant qualifies for the State of Oregon's aggressive solar manufacturing and business start up incentives. The State of Oregon has one of the most effective solar manufacturing incentive packages in the U.S. and is in the top ten in overall renewable investments. Ferrotec officials said support from state government played a critical role in the company's decision to locate its operation in Oregon.

###

About Ferrotec
Founded in 1980, Ferrotec Corporation (JASDAQ: 6890 (OTC) is a worldwide leader in the supply of materials, components, and precision system solutions for businesses and products. For additional information about Ferrotec products, visit the company's web site at www.ferrotec.co.jp

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

Business Oregon Director Tim McCabe today announced the appointment of two new members to the Oregon Business Development Commission.

"I am very excited about the addition of Chandra Brown, of Oregon Iron Works, and Gregory Semler, of Pivotal Investments, to the Oregon Business Development Commission," McCabe said. "These two business leaders will bring expertise and vision to the guidance of Business Oregon's efforts to retain and create jobs for Oregonians."

The Oregon Senate formally approved Governor Ted Kulongoski's appointment of Brown and Semler on February 8. Both new commissioners will begin serving at the Commission's March 19 meeting in Newport.

Brown, whose term will expire in June 2011, has worked for Oregon Iron Works, Inc., for the past 16 years and has held a variety of positions during her tenure with the company. She is currently OIW's Vice President of Special Projects, Marketing & Security, as well as President of United Streetcar; OIW's wholly-owned subsidiary.

Brown is responsible for overall administrative, operational and marketing activities for all OIW Special Projects. She also is the primary point of contact for all Congressional Marketing activities and she markets on behalf of OIW in Washington, D.C. In the past several years, she has helped secure over $40 million dollars in federal appropriations and has assisted in raising OIW's profile to be one of the 10 "Overall Most Admired Companies" in Oregon as published in the Portland Business Journal.

In addition to her work at OIW, she serves on many non-profit boards and does community volunteer work. She is on the board of directors and chairs the Pacific Northwest Defense Coalition (PNDC), which is a non-profit for the advancement of defense work in the region. In 2005 she was also appointed to the Oregon Innovation Council (OR Inc.) by Oregon's Governor, Ted Kulongoski. She is a founding member and on the board of the Oregon Wave Energy Trust (OWET), a non-profit with the goal of promoting the emerging wave energy industry to create jobs and opportunity in Oregon. She also serves on an arts advocacy board, the Creative Advocacy Network, created in 2008, the Oregon Women MBAs board, and has served on OMSI's gala committee.

Semler, whose term will expire in June 2013, is the co-founder of the first clean technology venture fund in the Northwest. Portland, Oregon-based Pivotal Investments is the first venture capital firm in the Northwest focused on delivering superior financial return through investments in companies that will be leaders in the emerging sustainable economy.

Prior to founding Pivotal Investments, Semler was a clean technology entrepreneur with over 20 years of chief executive experience at advanced technology companies. His experience includes successfully financing high-growth companies, executive recruitment, management of product development efforts, acquisitions, strategic alliances, OEM partnerships and direct-to-consumer marketing and distribution.

Semler has been operating clean technology companies since 2000, most recently as president and CEO of ClearEdge Power, a Portland, Oregon-based privately financed company creating fuel cells for industrial and residential power applications. Before that, he was the President and Chief Executive Officer of PolyFuel, a Silicon Valley company creating fuel cells for portable, and consumer electronics applications.

###

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

Art Work on View March 9 - April 8, 2010

A collection of paintings by Portland artist William Park is on exhibit in the office of Governor Ted Kulongoski from March 9 through April 8, 2010. The paintings, saturated with lush blues and greens, and painterly movement, reflect the artist's love of painting. Park's subjects are primarily people, birds and trees. For the artist, birds signify the "spirit of life." He uses a variety of media (oil, acrylic, charcoal, ink) to impart emotional impact and "life, depth, contrast, substance, truth and integrity." In his words : "I believe I can find beauty just about anywhere and I don't know if it is my duty as an artist to do this, but it is certainly my pleasure."

Park is a self-taught artist. A sign painter by trade, he began painting artistically at age of 41 after a period of personal difficulty. Park asserts that painting is a way of making his life fulfilling, and maintains an active and engaged studio practice.

Park's work has been shown in solo exhibitions at Augen and Mark Woolley Galleries (Portland), Columbia Arts (Hood River) and Erickson and Ellins (San Francisco). His work is included in the permanent collections of the Crocker Art Museum (Sacramento, CA), the Tacoma Art Museum (Tacoma, WA), Portland Community College, the City of Portland, and the State of Oregon among others. His work can be seen in Portland public art projects for Rentrak, Oregon Health Sciences University, Tri-Met Light Rail, and Portland International Airport.

William Park's work may be seen in the Office of the Governor, 2nd floor, Oregon State Capitol, 900 Court Street in Salem, Mondays through Fridays from 8 am – 5 pm.

The Art in the Governor's Office Program honors selected Oregon artists with exhibitions in the reception area of the Governor's Office in the State Capitol. An exhibit in the Governor's office is considered a lifetime honor. Artists whose work has been shown there include Mary Josephson, Gordon Gilkey, Sally Haley, Yuji Hiratsuka, Manuel Izquierdo, James Lavadour, Henk Pander, Michele Russo and Margot Thompson.

‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐


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

The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon legislature, federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts and funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust.
‐ 30 ‐


Attached Media Files: William Park's "I’ll Do the Talking Here," 2008, acrylic on paper, 22 x 30 inches. Private Collection.

For Immediate Release
March 2, 2010
Contact: Deborah Vaughn, (503) 986-0085, deborah.vaughn@state.or.us


23 School Champions Prepare for Poetry Out Loud State Contest

Twenty-three Poetry Out Loud school champions from high schools in 19 Oregon communities will compete in the state Poetry Out Loud competition to be held:

Friday March 12, 2010 7 - 10 pm
Semi-Final Rounds

Saturday March 13, 2010 9:30 am - noon
Final Round

Salem Kroc Center, 1865 Bill Frey Drive, Salem

The school champions, ranging in age from 15 to 19, are fine-tuning their presentations and recitations which will be judged by physical presence, voice and articulation, appropriateness of dramatization, accuracy, evidence of understanding, level of difficulty and overall performance. Each contestant must prepare three poems. The contestants are:

School Contestant Age Grade
Ashland High School Alexander Barnes 15 9
Bandon High School Caitlyn McLauchlin 17 12
Cascade Christian School Kelli Alcantara 16 11
Centennial High School Krestina Aziz 17 12
Center for Advanced Learning Alandra Godinez 17 12
Condon High School Delaney Edwards 18 12
Crook County High School Nathaniel Dunaway 17 11
Grants Pass High School Jordan Moeny 17 11
Hidden Valley High School Maya Cross-Killingsworth16 10
Hood River Valley High School Patrick Sadil 18 12
Lake Oswego High School Kisky Holwerda 18 12
Lakeridge High School Brynn Tran 16 11
Madison High School Sabrina Ruiz 15 10
Metropolitan Learning Center Ian Selland 15 9
Oregon City High School Kalen Forsberg 15 10
Oregon School for the Deaf SimoneRenee Moore 19 12
Redmond High School Audrey Saxton 15 10
Salem Academy Zoe Thatcher 16 11
Sherwood High School Sierra Donahue 16 11
Springfield Academy
of Arts and Academics Mekayla Plummer-Brous 16 10
Veritas School Judah Newby 17 12
West Salem High School Jackie Lubbers 18 12
Woodburn Arts &
Communications Academy Obdulia Valle Ramirez 16 11

Four of the 2010 school champions competed at the state contest last year: Jackie Lubbers (2009 Oregon State Poetry Out Loud Runner-up), Catilyn McLauchlin (2009 Oregon State Poetry Out Loud finalist), Nathaniel Dunaway (2009 Oregon State Poetry Out Loud finalist) and Patrick Sadil.

The winner of the state competition will represent Oregon in the national finals, taking place in Washington, DC on April 25 – 27. The Oregon champion wins an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, DC (with a chaperone); a $200 scholarship; and $500 for the school library to purchase poetry books. At the nationals, he or she will compete for more than $35,000 in scholarships.

This year's judges are Lawson Inada, Oregon poet laureate; Susan Coromel, actor and theatre professor at Willamette University; Danna Claborn, certified sign interpreter and art teacher; Renee Mitchell, Pulitzer Prize nominated journalist; Judith H. Montgomery, poet and literary fellowship recipient; Collier Nogues, Fishtrap writer-in-residence; and Eleanor Berry, former president of the Oregon State Poetry Association.

Poetry Out Loud, now in its fifth year in Oregon, involves the memorization and recitation of
classic poetry and culminates in a statewide competition. The program seeks to foster the next generation of literary readers by capitalizing on the latest trends in poetry – recitation and performance. It builds on the resurgence of poetry as an oral art form, as seen in the slam poetry movement, and brings aspects of slam poetry, spoken word and theater into the English class.

"Learning great poetry by heart develops the mind and imagination," observed Dana Gioia, former chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts. "Poetry Out Loud isn't just an arts program. By immersing themselves in powerful language and ideas, students develop their ability to speak well, especially in public. This is a skill they will use in the workplace and the community for the rest of their lives."

The Oregon Arts Commission, the NEA and the Poetry Foundation partner to sponsor Poetry Out Loud. The Arts Commission has developed an Oregon Curriculum Guide that can be used to connect Poetry Out Loud classroom activities to Oregon's Content and Performance Standards in Language Arts and the Arts. For further information on Poetry Out Loud, contact the Oregon Arts Commission at 503-986-0082, or visit the national website at www.poetryoutloud.org

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of the Economic Development Department in 1993 in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission's expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development. The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. For more information about the Oregon Arts Commission: www.oregonartscommission.org.

- 30 -

For Immediate Release
February 18, 2010

Four More School Winners Announced in Oregon
Poetry Out Loud Competitions
State Winner Will Represent Oregon at Nationals in Washington, DC in April

The Oregon Arts Commission, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation, brings Poetry Out Loud to 25 high schools in 20 communities this year, reaching over 5,000 Oregon students. The program, now in its fifth year, involves the memorization and recitation of classic poetry and culminates in a statewide competition. Nationwide, more than 200,000 students are expected to participate. Participants compete for more than $50,000 in college scholarships awarded at the state and national levels.

The Poetry Out Loud contest uses a pyramid structure, similar to the national Spelling Bee. Beginning at the classroom levels, students advance to a school-wide competition, then to the state competition and ultimately to the National Finals in Washington, D.C.

More than half of Oregon's school contests have been completed. Oregon School for the Deaf announced Senior SimoneRenee Moore, who performed "i carry your heart with me" by e.e. cummings, as its representative to the state contest. Sierra Donahue was the Sherwood High School winner, reciting "A Fit of Rhyme Against Rhyme" by Ben Jonson. Obdulia Valle Ramirez was declared the winner at Woodburn Arts and Communications Academy, after reciting two poems: "Let it Be Forgotten" by Sara Teasdale and "I Am!" by John Clare. Finally, Condon High School selected Delaney Edwards, a senior, as its winner.

Contests were also held at Sprague HS (Salem), Cascade Christian (Medford), Veritas School (Newberg), Centennial HS (Gresham), Redmond HS, Center for Advanced Learning (Gresham), Woodburn Arts and Communications Academy, Hood River Valley HS, Lake Oswego HS, Ashland HS, Arlington HS and Bandon HS but winners have not yet been announced.

Previously announced winners include:
Zoe Thatcher, Salem Academy
Maya Cross-Killingsworth, Hidden Valley High School (Grants Pass)
Jordan Money, Grants Pass High School

All school winners will advance to the Oregon State Poetry Out Loud Contest which will be held:

Semi-Finals
Friday, March 12, 7 – 10 pm

Finals
Saturday, March 13, 9:30 am – noon
Salem Kroc Center
1865 Bill Frey Drive, Salem
Coordinator: Deb Vaughn
503-986-0085; deborah.vaughn@state.or.us

This year's state competition will be judged by Oregon Poet Laureate Lawson Inada; Susan Coromel, actor and theatre professor at Willamette University; certified sign interpreter Danna Claborn and poets Renee Mitchell (Portland), Judith Montgomery (Bend), Collier Nogues (Enterprise) and Eleanor Berry (Eugene).

In addition to winning a $200 scholarship and $500 for the school library's poetry collection, the state champion receives an all-expense-paid trip, with a chaperone, to Washington, DC to compete in the national finals, April 25-27, 2010. April is National Poetry Month.

Poetry Out Loud seeks to foster the next generation of literary readers by capitalizing on the latest trends in poetry – recitation and performance. The program builds on the resurgence of poetry as an oral art form, as seen in the slam poetry movement, and brings aspects of slam poetry, spoken word and theater into the English class.

"The Oregon Arts Commission is proud of Oregon's strong participation in Poetry Out Loud," observed Christine D'Arcy, executive director of the Oregon Arts Commission. "Teachers are increasingly incorporating Poetry Out Loud as a standard part of the school culture, providing their students with the chance to build self-confidence while exploring great poetry. Each year, we are impressed with the maturity and poise of the contestants we see at the state contest."

The Oregon Arts Commission, the NEA and the Poetry Foundation partner to sponsor Poetry Out Loud. The Arts Commission has developed an Oregon Curriculum Guide that can be used to connect Poetry Out Loud classroom activities to Oregon's Content and Performance Standards in Language Arts and the Arts/Drama.

For more information on Poetry Out Loud, contact the Oregon Arts Commission at 503-986-0082, or visit the national website at www.poetryoutloud.org

Media: Please contact the school coordinator for permission to cover a contest.

*Indicates a new Poetry Out Loud School for the 2009-2010 school year.



Participating Schools Contest Date/Time School Coordinator Information
Bandon High School
550 9th St. SW
Bandon February 19, 2010
3:30 pm
Library Ellen Howard
ellenh@bandon.k12.or.us
541-347-4413

Crook County High School
1100 SE Lynn Blvd
Prineville February 23, 2010
7:00 pm
Eugene Southwell Auditorium Anita Hoffman
anita.hoffman@crookcounty.k12.or.us
541-416-6900

Lakeridge High School*
1235 Overlook Drive
Lake Oswego February 24, 2010
2:45 pm
auditorium Edward Derby
derbye@loswego.k12.or.us
503-534-2319

Madison High School
2735 NE 82nd Ave
Portland February 25, 2010
12:30 PM
library Erin McNulty
emcnulty@pps.k12.or.us
503-916-5220

Metropolitan Learning Center
2033 NW Glisan
Portland February 23, 2010
9:00 AM
Powell's: 1001 W. Burnside, Portland Stephen Lambert
slambert@pps.k12.or.us
503-916-5737

Oregon City High School*
18761 S. Beavercreek Rd.
Oregon City February 23, 2010
3:00 PM Patrick McDonald
patrick.mcdonald@orecity.k12.or.us
503-785-8900

Springfield Academy of Arts & Sciences*
615 Main St.
Springfield February 25, 2010
7:00 pm Scott Crowell
scott.crowell@sps.lane.edu
541-744-6728

West Salem High School
1776 Titan Drive NW
Salem February 23, 2010
3:00 pm
auditorium Christina Eddy
eddy_christina@salkeiz.k12.or.us
503-399-5533

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of the Business Oregon Department in 1993 in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission's expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development. The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. For more information about the Oregon Arts Commission: www.oregonartscommission.org.

- 30 -

For Immediate Release
February 10, 2010


State Winner Will Represent Oregon at Nationals in Washington, DC in April

The Oregon Arts Commission, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation, brings Poetry Out Loud to 25 high schools in 20 communities this year, reaching over 5,000 Oregon students. The program, now in its fifth year, involves the memorization and recitation of classic poetry and culminates in a statewide competition. Nationwide, more than 200,000 students are expected to participate. Participants compete for more than $50,000 in college scholarships awarded at the state and national levels.

The first week of school contests has been completed. Winners include Zoe Thatcher, a junior at Salem Academy, who recited "The Death of Allegory" by Billy Collins and "The Bells of San Blas" by Longfellow, earning her a place at the state contest to be held March 12-13, 2010 in Salem. In Grants Pass, Maya Cross-Killingsworth won the Hidden Valley High School contest. Jordan Money, a junior, was the winner at Grants Pass High School after reciting "Poem with One Fact" by Donald Hall and "How I Discovered Poetry" by Marilyn Nelson.

Contests were also held at Sprague High School (Salem), Oregon School for the Deaf (Salem), Veritas School (Newberg) and Cascade Christian School (Medford), but winners have not yet been announced.

Oregon's 2009 State Champion, Tiffany Hill from Oregon School for the Deaf, was the first deaf student to compete in the national competition. Now a senior at Oregon School for the Deaf, she served on the judging panel for her school's contest. She will perform at the 2010 Oregon State Poetry Out Loud Contest which will take be held:


Semi-Finals
Friday, March 12, 7 – 10 pm

Finals
Saturday, March 13, 9:30 am – noon
Salem Kroc Center
1865 Bill Frey Drive, Salem
Coordinator: Deb Vaughn
503-986-0085; deborah.vaughn@state.or.us

This year's state competition will be judged by Lawson Inada, Oregon poet laureate; Susan Cormel, actor and theatre professor at Willamette University; and poets Renee Mitchell (Portland), Judith Montgomery (Bend), Collier Nogues (Enterprise) and Eleanor Berry (Eugene).

In addition to winning a $200 scholarship and $500 for the school library's poetry collection, the state champion receives an all-expense-paid trip, with a chaperone, to Washington, DC to compete in the national finals, April 25-27, 2010. April is National Poetry Month.

Poetry Out Loud seeks to foster the next generation of literary readers by capitalizing on the latest trends in poetry – recitation and performance. The program builds on the resurgence of poetry as an oral art form, as seen in the slam poetry movement, and brings aspects of slam poetry, spoken word and theater into the English class.

"Learning great poetry by heart develops the mind and imagination," observed Dana Gioia, the former chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts who initiated Poetry Out Loud. "Poetry Out Loud isn't just an arts program. By immersing themselves in powerful language and ideas, students develop their ability to speak well, especially in public. This is a skill they will use in the workplace and the community for the rest of their lives."

The Oregon Arts Commission, the NEA and the Poetry Foundation partner to sponsor Poetry Out Loud. The Arts Commission has developed an Oregon Curriculum Guide that can be used to connect Poetry Out Loud classroom activities to Oregon's Content and Performance Standards in Language Arts and the Arts/Drama.

For more information on Poetry Out Loud, contact the Oregon Arts Commission at 503-986-0082, or visit the national website at www.poetryoutloud.org

Media: Please contact the school coordinator for permission to cover a contest.

*Indicates a new Poetry Out Loud School for the 2009-2010 school year.

Participating Schools Contest Date/Time School Coordinator Information

Arlington High School
1200 Main Street
Arlington February 19, 2010
11:00 am Charles Van Gorder
cvangorder@arlington.k12.or.us
541-454-2632

Ashland High School
201 South Mountain Ave.
Ashland February 18, 2010
7:00 pm Jane Eisenberg
bill.street@ashland.k12.or.us
541-482-8771

Bandon High School
550 9th St. SW
Bandon February 19, 2010
3:30 pm
Library Ellen Howard
ellenh@bandon.k12.or.us
541-347-4413

Centennial High School*
3505 SE 181st
Gresham February 11, 2010
3:00 pm Rita Ramstad
rita_ramstad@centennial.k12.or.us
503-762-6180

Center for Advanced Learning
1484 NW Civic Dr
Gresham February 16, 2010
6:00 pm
Forum Room Jeanne Sheets-Sagoo
jeanne_sheets-sagoo@thecenterforadvancedlearning.org
503-667-4978

Condon High School
PO Box 575
Condon February 16, 2010 Time TBA Mike Keown
mkeown@condon.k12.or.us
541-384-2441

Crook County High School
1100 SE Lynn Blvd
Prineville February 23, 2010
7:00 pm
Eugene Southwell Auditorium Anita Hoffman
anita.hoffman@crookcounty.k12.or.us
541-416-6900

Hood River Valley High School
1220 Indian Creek Rd
Hood River February 18, 2010
9:00 am
Columbia Performing Arts Center Regena Rafelson
rrafelson@hoodriver.k12.or.us
541-386-4500

Lake Oswego High School
2501 Country Club Rd
Lake Oswego February 18, 2010
6:30 pm
auditorium Jami Parcher Wray
wrayj@loswego.k12.or.us
503-534-2313

Lakeridge High School*
1235 Overlook Drive
Lake Oswego February 24, 2010
2:45 pm
auditorium Edward Derby
derbye@loswego.k12.or.us
503-534-2319

Madison High School
2735 NE 82nd Ave
Portland February 25, 2010
12:30 PM
library Erin McNulty
emcnulty@pps.k12.or.us
503-916-5220

Metropolitan Learning Center
2033 NW Glisan
Portland February 23, 2010
9:00 AM
Powell's: 1001 W. Burnside, Portland Stephen Lambert
slambert@pps.k12.or.us
503-916-5737

Oregon City High School*
18761 S. Beavercreek Rd.
Oregon City February 23, 2010
3:00 PM Patrick McDonald
patrick.mcdonald@orecity.k12.or.us
503-785-8900

Redmond High School Hartman Campus*
2105 W Arthur
Redmond February 11, 2010
Time TBA Hilda Beltran
hilda.beltran@redmond.k12.or.us
541-923-6680

Sherwood High School
16956 SW Meinecke Rd
Sherwood February 16, 2010
3:00 pm Jared Jones
jjones@sherwood.k12.or.us
503-825-5500

Springfield Academy of Arts & Sciences*
615 Main St.
Springfield February 25, 2010
7:00 pm Scott Crowell
scott.crowell@sps.lane.edu
541-744-6728

West Salem High School
1776 Titan Drive NW
Salem February 23, 2010
3:00 pm
auditorium Christina Eddy
eddy_christina@salkeiz.k12.or.us
503-399-5533

Woodburn Arts & Communications Academy
1785 N Front St
Woodburn February 17, 2010
8:00 am Mindy Brooks
mbrooks@woodburn.k12.or.us
503-982-3398


. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of the Business Oregon Department in 1993 in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission's expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development. The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. For more information about the Oregon Arts Commission: www.oregonartscommission.org.

- 30 -

February 23, 2010, Salem, ORE -- Governor Ted Kulongoski has appointed artist and business owner Kathy Deggendorfer of Sisters; Intel executive Jon Kruse of Portland; and public relations consultant Lee Weinstein of The Dalles to four year terms on the Oregon Cultural Trust board.

"These appointments continue the expansion of the Trust board, from nine to 13 members, as approved by the 2009 legislature," explains Trust Board Chair Norm Smith. "We welcome the wide-ranging interests, in-depth experience and ardent commitment that Kathy, Jon and Lee bring to the Trust board as we move forward with our vital work."

Kathy Deggendorfer is an artist and community activist who launched Sisters Art Works, an arts incubator and studio complex in Sisters, in 2005. She is a trustee of the Roundhouse Foundation, which funds the arts in central Oregon. Deggendorfer has served on the boards of the Sisters Folk Festival and Arts Central, and as an advisor to Caldera. She is also a member of the Oregon Community Foundation's Leadership Council for Central Oregon. She notes, "I've been an arts advocate for many years and a supporter of the Trust since it was envisioned. I have been impressed with the work done by the Trust to date and look forward to contributing to the work ahead." Deggendorfer holds a B.A. from the University of Oregon and also studied at the University of Pavia in Italy and Marylhurst College.

Jon Kruse has spent most of his professional career with Intel, where he now holds the position of Investment Director for Intel Capital. He has been active in the greater Portland community, serving on the mayor's budget advisory council and urban renewal advisory group; chairing the committees for the successful 2008 Oregon Zoo bond measure and the 2006 Multnomah County Library levy; and serving as board president of the Portland Baroque Orchestra. His work with PBO earned him the 2004 Volunteer Leadership Award from Northwest Business for Culture & the Arts for his exceptional business volunteerism. Kruse currently chairs the Oregon Zoo Foundation board. Kruse says, "This appointment is a welcome opportunity to combine my passion for arts and culture with my business skills and experience in for-profit and government leadership." He holds a B.A. in economics from Miami University, Ohio; and a M.B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Before founding a public relations agency, LWA PR in the Columbia Gorge and Portland, in 2007, Lee Weinstein was director of corporate communications at NIKE, Inc., where he worked for 15 years. Before joining Nike, he was deputy press secretary to Governor Neil Goldschmidt, executive assistant to Oregon Insurance Commissioner Ted Kulongoski, assistant dean at Lewis & Clark College and legislative assistant to Congressman Ron Wyden. Through LWA PR, he has worked for the Pendleton Roundup and Oregon State Fair. He was vice chair of Oregon 150, the nonprofit that organized Oregon's sesquicentennial celebration; and was active in the creation of the Kam Wah Chung Museum in John Day. He is currently on the board of the Maryhill Museum of Art and a member of The Dalles Chamber of Commerce. He holds a B.A. in political science from Lewis & Clark College. "I'm honored," says Weinstein, "to be joining the Trust and helping to enhance Oregon's diverse historical and cultural offerings, especially in our rural and natural areas."

About the Oregon Cultural Trust
The OREGON CULTURAL TRUST is an innovative, statewide private-public program raising significant new funds to support and protect Oregon's arts, humanities and heritage. In addition to the creation of a permanent endowment, funds are distributed annually through three multi-faceted, wide-ranging grant programs. Donors to the Trust are eligible for a 100% Oregon income tax credit for contributions of up to $500 for individuals, $1,000 for couples filing jointly and $2,500 for corporations. To motivate Oregonians to increase direct giving to cultural groups, Trust donors must also make matching gifts to one or more of nearly 1,300 cultural nonprofits in order to qualify for the credit. No other state in the nation has a program like the Oregon Cultural Trust, which has been ranked with the bottle bill and the vote-by-mail bill as among Oregon's most forward-thinking public policy measures. More information: (503) 986-0088 or www.culturaltrust.org.

In 2003, the Oregon legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Oregon Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission's expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information, and community cultural development. The Arts Commission and the Cultural Trust are part of the Business Oregon (formerly Oregon Economic and Community Development Department) in recognition of the expanding role arts and culture play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities.

Board, Oregon Cultural Trust
Norm Smith, Roseburg, chair
Lyn Hennion, Jacksonville, vice chair
Walter Frankel, Corvallis, secretary/treasurer
Pamela Hulse Andrews, Bend
Kathy Deggendorfer, Sisters
Sen. Jackie Dingfelder, Portland, Senate District 23
Rep. David Edwards, Hillsboro, House District 3
Nick Fish, Portland
Jon Kruse, Portland
Heidi McBride, Portland
Bob Speltz, Portland
Lee Weinstein, The Dalles

Special Advisors
Charles Rooks, Portland
Charles Walker, Neskowin
Virginia Willard, Portland


- 30 -


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1171/Lee_Weinstein_Photo_Pete_Perry_--_Color.JPG , 2010-02/1171/Kathy_Deggendorfer_Photo_Lynn_Woodward_Photography.jpg , 2010-02/1171/John_Kruse_Photo_Edmond_Keene_Photographers_--_Color.JPG

February 16, 2010. Salem, ORE – The Oregon Cultural Trust is Oregon's innovative funding mechanism to support culture in the broadest sense. It has a single grant cycle each year. Applications are now open for its FY2011 competitive Cultural Development grants; the deadline is Friday, May 14, 2010. Oregon humanities, art and heritage nonprofits with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status may apply for funding to support projects of cultural significance taking place between August 1, 2010 – July 31, 2011. Grant awards range from $5,000 - $50,000.

Application and guidelines are online at www.culturaltrust.org/programs/grant_opportunities.php
or may be requested from (503) 986-0088 or cultural.trust@state.or.us. Applicants must select a project category -- Access, Capacity, Creativity or Preservation -- and proposals must be postmarked May 14 or hand-delivered by 5 PM May 14 to:

Oregon Cultural Trust
775 Summer Street NE, Ste 200
Salem, OR 97301-1280

The Oregon Cultural Trust recently announced a 10% increase in calendar year 2009 donations, which will have a positive impact on the upcoming funding cycle. Although donors give to the Trust by December 31 each year in order to claim Oregon's unique cultural tax credit, Trust grantmaking is determined by its fiscal year (July 1 – June 30) revenues. Executive Director Christine D'Arcy points out, "Gifts received by June 30 will directly increase the pool of funds to be awarded this summer. Increased donations allow the Trust to broaden and deepen its investment in Oregon's heritage, history, arts and humanities. I encourage Trust donors to make at least part of their annual gift by June 30, 2010."

FY 2011 grant awards will be announced at the end of July 2010.

About the Oregon Cultural Trust
The OREGON CULTURAL TRUST is an innovative, statewide private-public program raising significant new funds to support and protect Oregon's arts, humanities and heritage. In addition to the creation of a permanent endowment, funds are distributed annually through three multi-faceted, wide-ranging grant programs. Donors to the Trust are eligible for a 100% Oregon income tax credit for contributions of up to $500 for individuals, $1,000 for couples filing jointly and $2,500 for corporations. To motivate Oregonians to increase direct giving to cultural groups, Trust donors must also make matching gifts to one or more of nearly 1,300 cultural nonprofits in order to qualify for the credit. No other state in the nation has a program like the Oregon Cultural Trust, which has been ranked with the bottle bill and the vote-by-mail as among Oregon's most forward-thinking public policy measures. More information: (503) 986-0088 or www.culturaltrust.org. - 30 -

Increased Contributions Result in More Funds Available for Grants

February 9, 2010—Salem, ORE. The Oregon Cultural Trust, Oregon's unique program to increase public and private investment in culture, reports calendar year 2009 donations of $3,741,337, an increase of 10% over the $3,406,254 contributed in 2008.

"Arts and cultural organizations have been particularly challenged to raise funds from individuals and foundations in 2009's difficult economy. The fact that giving to the Trust increased by 10% in 2009 demonstrates that Oregonians care about the history of their communities and the many ways the arts and culture makes a difference in our lives," said Christine D'Arcy, executive director of the Trust.

Oregonians made 7,436 gifts to the Trust in 2009; 1,648 (22%) of those gifts were from first-time donors. In 2008, the average gift was $479; in 2009, the average rose to $503.

The Trust intensified outreach across the state and undertook new communications strategies to reinforce the power of culture in communities, working with 45 cultural coalitions to increase awareness of Oregon's cultural tax credit across the state. As a result, giving in much of rural Oregon, including Curry, Gilliam, Jefferson and Sherman counties, went up. Of Oregon's 36 counties, 23 increased giving over 2008; 10 decreased; and 3 remained flat. Donors in the largest population counties, Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas and Lane increased giving by 21%, 16%, 15% and 12%, respectively.

The Trust once again participated in Willamette Week's Give!Guide – a campaign to encourage philanthropy, particularly among those 35 and under – and experienced a significant increase in donations there, too. In 2009, 327 donors gave $105,871 to the Trust through the Give!Guide; in 2008, 293 donors contributed $89,000.

Norm Smith, board chair, commented, "Oregonians are a can do people. Under challenging circumstances, people rally for the community good. This was certainly true of our 2009 donors, who recognized not only the value but also the need of cultural nonprofits across Oregon. With a 10% boost in giving, we are well on our way to increased grant making for fiscal year 2011. Good news for everyone who produces – and experiences – cultural programming in Oregon."

Kimberly Howard, Trust manager, added, "It's more important than ever that Oregonians
support the libraries, heritage centers, arts councils, performing arts groups and museums that are woven so intrinsically into daily life. Oregon culture in its ever-evolving expression defines who we are as a state, as a society. Protecting and advancing that identity is critical. Donations to the Trust can be made in any amount any time – or multiple times – during the year at www.culturaltrust.org."

Fifty eight percent of the money raised by the Cultural Trust each year remains in a permanent endowment for heritage, humanities and arts. The remaining 42% is distributed in three program: to Oregon cultural nonprofits; county and tribal cultural coalitions; and Oregon's five statewide cultural partners, Oregon Arts Commission, Oregon Heritage Commission, Oregon Historical Society, Oregon Humanities, and State Historic Preservation Office. Trust grants benefit every county in Oregon.

Oregon Cultural Trust fundraising history, by calendar year:
2002 $1.5 million
2003 $1.6 million
2004 $2 million
2005 $2.3 million
2006 $2.8 million
2007 $3.5 million
2008 $3.4 million
2009 $3.7 million

About the Oregon Cultural Trust
The OREGON CULTURAL TRUST is an innovative, statewide private-public program raising significant new funds to support and protect Oregon's arts, humanities and heritage. Donors to the Trust are eligible for a 100% Oregon income tax credit for contributions of up to $500 for individuals, $1,000 for couples filing jointly and $2,500 for corporations. To motivate Oregonians to increase direct giving to cultural groups, Trust donors must also make matching gifts to one or more of nearly 1,300 cultural nonprofits in order to qualify for the credit. Seventeen thousand (17,000) donors have contributed nearly $21 million to the Trust since Oregon's cultural tax credit took effect in December 2002. In seven years, the Cultural Trust has distributed $8 million in grants and built its permanent fund to $13 million. In 2003, the Oregon legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Oregon Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission's expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development. The Arts Commission and the Cultural Trust are part of Business Oregon (formerly Oregon Economic and Community Development Department), in recognition of the expanding role arts and culture play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities.

More information: (503) 986-0088 or www.culturaltrust.org.

- 30 -

As part of an ongoing effort to help homeowners avoid foreclosure, state agencies are organizing a foreclosure-prevention event in Bend on Saturday, March 27.

The Home Ownership Preservation Event (HOPE) will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Central Oregon Community College's Pioneer Hitchcock Auditorium at 2600 N.W. College Way in Bend.

This is the third Home Ownership Preservation Event the state has helped organize. The other events were in Portland in May 2009 and Medford in October 2009.

"Until the Oregon economy improves, we expect to continue to see homeowners struggling to stay in their homes," said Cory Streisinger, director of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services. "Arming homeowners with information and resources is an important tool in slowing the rise in foreclosures."

At the free event, homeowners will be able to attend workshops – offered in both English and Spanish – that will teach them how to participate in foreclosure prevention programs, such as the federal Making Home Affordable Plan. Other workshop topics include homeowners' rights under new Oregon laws, short sales, avoiding foreclosure scams, and how lawyers can help prevent a foreclosure. Nonprofit housing counselors, state agencies, and lawyers will be on hand to provide information and answer questions. Representatives from the Oregon Employment Department will also be present, providing employment information.

"It's vitally important that we do everything we can to help people stay in their homes during these grim economic times," said Attorney General John Kroger.

Sponsors for the Bend event include: the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon Department of Justice, Oregon Housing and Community Services, Mortgage Lending Education Board, Hagar Institute, Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, OAMP Central Oregon, Oregon State Public Interest Research Group, and NeighborImpact.

"Not knowing what to do or who to talk to adds to the stress during a personal financial crisis," said Victor Merced, Director of Oregon Housing and Community Services. "Good information is a powerful tool for families."

For more information on the event, call 1-866-814-9710 or go to www.foreclosurehelp.oregon.gov.

The Home Ownership Preservation Events are one way the state has been helping Oregonians facing foreclosure. The Department of Consumer and Business Services, the Department of Justice, and Oregon Housing and Community Services have been working with the legislature and consumer groups to protect Oregonians from mortgage fraud and provide resources to homeowners facing foreclosure.

The agencies have provided funding for foreclosure counseling using proceeds from Oregon settlements exposing mortgage fraud. Homeowners can call 1-800-SAFENET or log onto www.211info.org to find a counselor in their area. In addition, a state Web site, http://foreclosurehelp.oregon.gov, contains information and resources to help homeowners prevent foreclosure, avoid scams, and better understand the foreclosure process.

Oregon has several new laws that further help homeowners. Senate Bill 628 requires lenders to meet with borrowers facing foreclosure – either in person or by phone – and evaluate whether they qualify for a loan modification. In addition, House Bill 3610 passed in the February 2010 session requires an explanation from the lender if the homeowner is found ineligible for the modification.

(Salem) — Employers across Oregon are encouraged to celebrate workplace safety and health with award programs, trainings and other special events during the eighth-annual Safety Break for Oregon on Wednesday, May 12, 2010.

Oregon's Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) coordinates the one-day event, designed to raise awareness and promote the value of workplace safety and health in preventing injuries and illnesses. The voluntary event, which occurs on the second Wednesday in May, is designed to be flexible to meet an employer's safety and health program needs.

"My hope is that businesses across Oregon will get involved with Safety Break to celebrate their safety and health achievements, but also to focus attention on problems that aren't solved yet," said Michael Wood, Oregon OSHA administrator. "It's a great time to talk about hazards, host a training event, or promote the value of safety in the workplace."

The theme for this year's event "Shine a Light on Safety," encourages employees and management to work together on safety and health concerns. The result of this cooperation can lead to fewer injuries and reduced workers' compensation costs for employers.

Companies planning to participate are encouraged to sign up online. For ideas on hosting an event, to download graphics, or for more information, go the Safety Break for Oregon Web site at www.orosha.org/subjects/safetybreak.html.

###

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

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, go to www.dcbs.oregon.gov.


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1073/2010spotlight-96dpi-med.jpg

Salem, Oregon – The Department of Consumer and Business Services, Insurance Division, today finalized changes to its health insurance rate review process that make all information submitted as part of an insurance company's rate request open to the public.

"Consumers now will be able to see everything their health insurer provides the state when they request a rate change," said Teresa Miller, administrator of the Insurance Division. "We look forward to providing even more information to Oregonians about potential rate changes and receiving their input through a new public comment process."

The Insurance Division must review health insurance rates for individual, small employer (2-50 employees), and portability plans before they take effect in Oregon. Portability plans are available to people who lose employer-sponsored coverage. As in many states, health insurance rates in Oregon have been rising by double digits, reflecting increases in medical spending. Experts expect that trend to continue in 2010, particularly for individual policies.

New rules adopted today put in place reforms passed by the 2009 Legislature. These include:
• A 30-day period for the public to comment on rate requests. Consumers can learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/ORHealthRates.
• More detail about what insurers spend on salaries, broker commissions, marketing and advertising, and other administrative expenses.
• Ability to consider an insurer's overall profitability rather than just costs for a particular type of insurance such as individual health plans.
All the changes are effective for rate requests filed on or after April 1. An advisory committee that included insurers, small businesses, and consumer groups worked with the division on the rules.


"Our department has been working for the past several years to make health insurance costs more transparent," said Cory Streisinger, director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. "Providing the public with information is key as we as a state and nation grapple with escalating health care costs."

A law the department proposed in 2007 made health insurance rate review filings open to the public, and the new rules build on that effort to improve transparency. DCBS publishes an annual report called "Health Insurance in Oregon," which provides financial and market data about Oregon's major health insurance companies (available at http://tinyurl.com/OrHealthIns2010). Through other DCBS initiatives, Oregonians can now compare hospital costs, and find out their out-of-pocket costs for common medical procedures through an interactive Web site and toll-free phone number before getting treatment.

###
The Insurance Division, part of the Department of Consumer & Business Services, helps ensure the financial soundness of insurers, the fair treatment of consumers, and the affordability and availability of insurance products. For more information, visit www.insurance.oregon.gov.

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, visit www.dcbs.oregon.gov.

An advisory committee to the Oregon Board of Forestry will meet Wednesday, March 17, in Salem to conclude its discussion on ways to improve administrative rules that define "greatest permanent value" and state forest management planning.

The meeting – the committee's fourth – will be held at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters (Tillamook Room) at 2600 State Street from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The public is welcome to attend, but no formal comment period is planned.

The committee will review and improve draft scenarios, citing the upside and downside of each. The three scenarios: 1) emphasize producing timber, 2) focus on balancing multiple resources, and 3) concentrate on habitat restoration and protection.

The greatest permanent value rule is the standard that must be used – by law – to manage state forests for broad benefits. The Tillamook and Clatsop state forests in northwest Oregon are examples of state-managed forest lands.

The 14-member committee will produced a summary report that will be delivered to the Board of Forestry in April. The board asked to have the committee formed to gain a wide range of input on the 10-year-old rules.

The committee's report will not make recommendations; instead, it will offer rule concepts.

In addition to examining at the greatest permanent value rule, the committee is looking at ways to improve the forest planning rule – how forest management plans are constructed and how they can be changed.

After receiving input from the advisory committee and other stakeholders, the board could choose to advance one or more of the developed concepts for further review through the administrative rule-making process.

Committee members are Cass Moseley (co-chair), University of Oregon; Barrett Brown, Oregon Motorcycles Association; Duane Cole, Clatsop County manager; Jeff Hickman, Sierra Club – angling/hunting; Dave Ivanoff, Hampton Affiliates; Ray Jones, Stimson Lumber Co.; Ed Kamholz, citizen representative; Paul Levesque, Tillamook County administrator; Meryl Redisch, Portland Audubon; George Smith, Coquille Indian Tribe; Bill Street (co-chair), Woodworks District (union); Al Switzer, Klamath County commissioner; Bob Van Dyk, Wild Salmon Center; Joan Zuber, Mazamas (hiking); and ex-officio members Rod Krahmer, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and John Potter, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

The term "greatest permanent value" is defined in state law and administrative rule. It seeks a full range of social, economic and environmental benefits.

Examples of these benefits include timber harvest with resulting revenues for public services in local counties, healthy streams, wildlife habitat and recreation. The rule does not specify how much of each benefit is appropriate. It is up to the Board of Forestry to make that determination.

March 8, 2010

A forest researcher based near the Grant County community of Long Creek has been named to the Committee for Family Forestlands, an advisory group that provides information about the concerns and interests of small-acreage and family forest owners to the Oregon Board of Forestry.

Dr. Roje Gootee co-owns and manages Rush Creek Ranch, 2443 acres of forest and rangeland in the foothills of eastern Oregon's Blue Mountains. Purchased in depleted condition in 1997, the property is responding to ongoing forest, range, and riparian restoration efforts, and in 2004, earned American Tree Farm System (ATFS) certification for forest management standards. Dr. Gootee works as an independent consultant specializing in natural resource stewardship and policy.

Membership of the 10-person Committee includes family forest landowners, forest industry representatives, environmental community and public members, and staff representing the Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon State University and the Oregon Forest Resources Institute. Dr. Gootee's appointment to the Committee was approved by the Oregon Board of Forestry at the Board's March 3rd meeting in Salem.

Dr. Gootee holds a baccalaureate degree in Forest Management from Utah State University and a PhD in Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences from Washington State University. Her research focuses on the social and legal interface between private forests and environmental regulatory policy. Dr. Gootee's research results have been presented in a variety of professional and academic settings including Yale University and international conferences in Ireland and France. She is committed to improving public understanding of environmental issues and working toward socially and ecologically sustainable policy solutions.

Dr. Gootee assumes a Committee seat representing forest landowners in eastern Oregon, replacing Klamath County resident Ned Livingston at the conclusion of Livingston's term on July 1, 2010.

Small-acreage private woodland owners and forest-owning families manage 4.7 million acres of Oregon's forests, about 15 percent of the state's forest footprint. More than half of Oregon's family forest owners are over 65, with many in their 70's and 80's. Many thousands of acres of Oregon's forest land are poised to change ownership within the next decade, with economic pressures driving both new and long-time forest owners to consider converting their forest to other uses, including residential development or commercial land.

Additional information about forest management is available on the Oregon Department of Forestry website, www.oregon.gov/ODF

###

The Oregon Board of Forestry will hear reports on a statewide forest assessment, scientific review of the state forest plans, and restructuring of the Oregon Department of Forestry's (ODF) budget when it meets on March 3 in Salem.

Statewide Forest Assessment and Resource Strategy
ODF staff will give a status report on the Statewide Forest Assessment and Resource Strategy project. A 16-member committee has identified six priority issues to be addressed by the federally mandated assessment:
- Communities at risk from wildfire
- Maintaining Oregon's forestland base
- Diversity of forest habitats
- Invasive Species
- Quality of aquatic habitats
- Climate change

The committee made up of landowners, representatives of forestry and environmental organizations, and federal and state resource agencies has developed a set of questions that address three types of forest conditions and trends, including those:
- that remain more or less stable or predictable over time.
- that change widely and are much less predictable over time.
- whose outcomes could be interpreted differently as to importance contingent on the perspective of the interpreter.

Under the 2008 Farm Bill, states that participate in the U.S. Forest Service's State and Private Forestry programs must complete an assessment.

PRIVATE FORESTS WORK PLAN
ODF staff will present a revised-draft board work plan that addresses two primary questions:
- How will the board provide direction on Private Forests program budget and financing with a goal to reduce vulnerability to economic cycles and increase the consistency of funding and resources?
- How will the board monitor Private Forests program policy implementation to address the challenges on private forestlands, with an aim to achieve sustainable forest management across all Oregon forestlands?

The board previously identified forest fragmentation and the conversion of forestland to other uses as the key challenges to conserving Oregon's nearly 11 million acres of privately owned forest.

SCIENTIFIC REVIEW OF STATE FOREST PLANS
In response to requests by the Board of Forestry and the State Land Board for a current scientific perspective on the revised state forest management plans, staff will present options for an outside review of the northwest and southwest plans. To be conducted by the Independent Multidisciplinary Science Team (IMST), the review will:
- examine the efficacy of the revised plans
- evaluate the Species of Concern and Salmon Anchor Habitat strategies
- gauge how effectively the social and economic effects of the plans have been addressed

Appointed by the governor and legislative leadership, the IMST is made up of scientists with recognized expertise in an array of natural resource disciplines.

MID-COLUMBIA STEELHEAD CONSERVATION AND RECOVERY PLAN
Sue Knapp, natural resources advisor to the governor's office, will report on Oregon's Mid-Columbia Steelhead Conservation and Recovery Plan that was recently approved by the Fish and Wildlife Commission. The plan describes the population status of and recovery plans for Endangered Species Act-listed steelhead in the Fifteen-mile Creek, Deschutes, John Day, Umatilla, and Walla Walla river sub-basins of the Columbia River.

The presentation will set the stage for the board to consider endorsing ODF's actions within the Conservation and Recovery Plan.

DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY BUDGET RESTRUCTURING
Staff will present a set of objectives for improving ODF's budget structure and funding levels. They will seek the board's endorsement to pursue the objectives by drawing on a broad coalition of interests willing to craft suggestions for achieving them and to work with the board and ODF in seeking legislative support during the 2011 legislative session.

2011-2013 BUDGET DEVELOPMENT
The board will receive a status report on development of the ODF budget for the 2011-2013 biennium.

2011 LEGISLATIVE CONCEPTS
The board will receive an update on the status of draft legislative concepts for the 2011 Oregon legislative session.

MEETING TIME AND LOCATION
The Board of Forestry meeting will begin at 8 a.m. at the Oregon Department of Forestry office, the Tillamook Room – Administration Building (C), 2600 State St., in Salem.

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

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

More information on the Board of Forestry can be found at www.oregon.gov/ODF/BOARD/. Background information on agenda items for the Nov. 6 meeting is available through the 2010 Meeting Schedule link.

Oregon Department of Forestry's (ODF) Stu Otto has received the 2009 Presidential Field Forester award from the Society of American Foresters (SAF) for his work to assist private landowners with the management of their forests. The national honor also credits Otto with helping central Oregon communities reduce the risk of wildfire to their homes and businesses.

In his 30-year career as a field forester with ODF, he has aided forest owners by writing management plans, administering cost-share programs, and providing one-on-one technical help. Eastern Oregon landowners Lynne and John Breese described the hands-on assistance that led to the certification of their forest under the Oregon Tree Farm system.

"He spent hours going over our logging sites, explaining and helping us improve what we were doing," the Breese's said. "He was one to walk the whole skid trail, not just what you could see from the landing."

In 2002 when residents of the Fall River area southwest of Bend became concerned at the threat of wildfire to their communities, Otto began working with the local homeowners association to clear brush on more than 100 home sites that posed a fire threat to adjacent homes.

"Stu set goals for us and he nudged us toward them with his remarkable ability to encourage and give guidance and direction to others," Aileen and Russ Wing of Fall River Estates said.

As a result of the community's efforts guided by the forester, Fall River Estates became the first Firewise Community in Oregon and received national recognition. The Firewise Communities program seeks to involve homeowners, community leaders, planners, developers and others in the effort to protect people, property and natural resources from the risk of wildland fire.

"Stu's enjoyment in his work and his dedication to maintaining healthy forests while protecting both private and public property was obvious," they said.

The Presidential Field Forester award is given to "recognize foresters who have dedicated their professional careers to the application of forestry on the ground using sound, scientific methods and adaptive management strategies." SAF bestows the award annually to foresters across the U.S. Otto received the District II award, which encompasses Oregon.

Following graduation from Michigan Technological University in 1974, he worked briefly for the Intermountain Forest and Range Experiment Station in Boise, Idaho, before his hire by ODF in 1978. Over the years he was stationed in Klamath Falls, Fossil and Lakeview in various field forester positions, and then moved to Prineville in 1990 to take a service forester job, the position he currently holds.

Throughout his career he has been an active member of SAF, serving in leadership roles.

Otto resides in Redmond with his wife Deb.

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 2 in Madras on a proposal to form the Gateway Rangeland Fire Protection Association. The proposal calls for forming a cooperative, non-profit, landowner-directed fire association that would provide wildfire protection to rangelands in portions of northern Jefferson County.

At the hearing, ODF staff will provide background information on the proposal and answer questions. Members of the public are invited to attend the hearing and give testimony. A report of the public testimony will be provided to the Board of Forestry for review prior to its consideration of the rangeland association proposal at its next meeting.

Rangeland fire protection associations were authorized by the Oregon Legislature in 1963 to fill a gap in wildfire protection for portions of the state that do not lie within a rural fire protection district or a forest protection district. There are currently 12 active associations.

The hearing will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the conference room at Jefferson County Fire District No. 1, 765 S. Adams Dr., in Madras.

To ensure the broadest range of services to individuals with disabilities, lead time is needed to make necessary arrangements. If special materials, services or assistance is required, please contact Gordon Foster at the Oregon Department of Forestry office in Prineville at least 48 hours in advance, 541-447-5658 ext. 237, text telephone (TTY) 1-800-467-4490 (outside Salem) and 503-945-7213 (in Salem).

The Oregon Board of Forestry Wednesday approved the purchase of 43,000 acres of forestland in Central Oregon as a first step in a long-range effort to acquire nearly 100,000 acres of nearby land.

This purchase will create the first new state forest in about 70 years.

State officials had initially hoped to buy an additional 25,000 acres immediately to the east, but public financing is not currently available. The department is working with a non-profit conservation group – The Conservation Fund – which is purchasing those lands until future state purchases are possible.

"This is truly a historic moment," board chair John Blackwell said. "We've assured that this land remains in forest use, providing a whole range of benefits for future generations. That's especially important these days, when we're facing permanent loss of forestland to development and other uses."

The tract is 50 miles south of Bend in northern Klamath County, east of Highway 97 near the community of Gilchrist.

The purchase is financed with $15 million in bonds approved by the 2009 legislature with support from Gov. Ted Kulongoski. The bonds will be repaid over 20 years with proceeds from the Oregon Lottery.

"Oregonians value their forests, and it's heartening when we have an opportunity to keep a piece of forest land in forest use," Kulongoski said.

The state is purchasing the property from Fidelity National Timber Resources, Inc., which has owned it since 2006.

"This is a good outcome for all parties involved," said Nancy Craven of Fidelity.

The property is part of larger holdings owned by the Gilchrist Timber Company for most of the 20th century. The community of Gilchrist was a "company town," the site of the company mill and home to many of its workers.

The Gilchrist family sold the property and mill in 1991 to Crown Pacific, which liquidated the forest to pay debt and eventually entered bankruptcy in 2003.

The land, which once supported expanses of large Ponderosa pine trees, was heavily harvested in the early 1990s, following the Gilchrist Timber Company sale.

The land was replanted as required by Oregon's Forest Practices Act, and is now stocked with trees about 20 years old.

It will be several decades before the forest will be able to provide timber sale revenue to Klamath County to support local services.

In the meantime, the state Department of Forestry will manage it to restore the densely packed young stands and to create a forest that eventually provides many benefits, including diverse wildlife habitat, ongoing flows of clean water, and recreation opportunities, in addition to forest products and revenues.

Eventually, revenue also may come from "carbon credits," paid to forest owners for their value in absorbing gasses associated with global warming.

"Without this action today, this land may have faced a dramatically different future," State Forester Marvin Brown said.

Years away from providing revenue from timber harvest, the land was not a likely purchase prospect for forestland investors. It most likely would have been divided into many smaller parcels, with a scattering of homes and other development. This would have increased fire danger while severely limiting larger scale management for wildlife habitat, public recreation opportunities and other benefits.

In addition to the Gilchrist lands, the Department of Forestry manages 781,000 acres of forestland, about 3 percent of Oregon's forests. This includes the Tillamook State Forest, restored under state ownership after severe fires in the mid-20th century, and the Elliott State Forest. The Elliott is owned by the State Land Board – the governor, state treasurer and secretary of state – and managed by ODF under contract.

The newest state forest, the Sun Pass State Forest just south of Crater Lake, was acquired between 1943 and 1948.

Brown said the Gilchrist acquisition reflects the work and support of many people and groups, including the legislature, the governor, Fidelity and Klamath County commissioners.

# # # #

Maps and other information about the acquisition are available on-line at:
http://egov.oregon.gov/ODF/STATE_FORESTS/gilchristacquisition.shtml

For more information, contact:
James Roddey, Earth Sciences Information Officer, Oregon Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries (971) 673-1543 (direct line) / (503) 807-8343 (cell)

This is the latest information (9:58 AM)from the West Coast and Alaska Tusnami Warning Center:

A TSUNAMI ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT WHICH INCLUDES THE COASTAL AREAS OF CALIFORNIA - OREGON - WASHINGTON - BRITISH COLUMBIA AND ALASKA FROM THE CALIFORNIA-MEXICO BORDER TO ATTU ALASKA...

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS
A TSUNAMI HAS BEEN GENERATED WHICH COULD IMPACT THE ADVISORY REGIONS LISTED IN THE HEADLINE. PERSONS IN LOW-LYING COASTAL AREAS SHOULD BE ALERT TO INSTRUCTIONS FROM THEIR LOCAL EMERGENCY OFFICIALS. EVACUATIONS ARE ONLY ORDERED BY EMERGENCY RESPONSE AGENCIES. - PERSONS IN TSUNAMI ADVISORY AREAS SHOULD MOVE OUT OF THE WATER... OFF THE BEACH AND OUT OF HARBORS AND MARINAS.

A TSUNAMI ADVISORY MEANS THAT A TSUNAMI CAPABLE OF PRODUCING STRONG CURRENTS OR WAVES DANGEROUS TO PERSONS IN OR VERY NEAR THE WATER IS IMMINENT OR EXPECTED. SIGNIFICANT WIDESPREAD INUNDATION IS NOT EXPECTED FOR AREAS UNDER AN ADVISORY. CURRENTS MAY BE HAZARDOUS TO SWIMMERS... BOATS... AND COASTAL STRUCTURES AND MAY CONTINUE FOR SEVERAL HOURS AFTER THE
INITIAL WAVE ARRIVAL.

THE WAVES WILL FIRST REACH LA JOLLA CALIFORNIA AT 002 PM PST ON FEBRUARY 27. ESTIMATED TSUNAMI ARRIVAL TIMES AND MAPS ALONG WITH SAFETY RULES AND OTHER INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND ON THE WEB SITE WCATWC.ARH.NOAA.GOV.

Wave heights in Oregon are not expected to be much more that a foot or 2 at most and it looks like they will arrive at about low tide on our coast, early this afternoon. Wave heights at Port Orford, OR are estimated to be 0.3M/1.0 FT,with wave heights expected to peak approximately two hours after initial arrival.


AT 1034 PM PACIFIC STANDARD TIME ON FEBRUARY 26 AN EARTHQUAKE WITH PRELIMINARY MAGNITUDE 8.8 OCCURRED NEAR THE COAST OF CENTRAL CHILE. THIS EARTHQUAKE HAS GENERATED A TSUNAMI WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO REGIONS IN A WARNING OR ADVISORY.

More information on the tsunami can be found at the NOAA Center for Tsunami Research website: http://nctr.pmel.noaa.gov/chile20100227/

For more information, contact:
James Roddey
Earth Sciences Information Officer
Oregon Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries
800 NE Oregon Street, Suite 965, Portland, OR 97232
(971) 673-1543 (direct line) / (503) 807-8343 (cell)

The Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI), in partnership with Oregon Emergency Management and the National Weather Service, are enhancing and expanding tsunami preparedness for Oregon coastal communities with a new program called TsunamiReady, TsunamiPrepared.

Funded by a multi-year, multi-million dollar grant from the National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Program overseen by the U.S. Department of Commerce's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), TsunamiReady, TsunamiPrepared will accelerate the remapping of the Oregon coast for tsunami inundation using state of the art computer modeling and laser based terrain mapping (lidar). The outcome will be the creation of new, more accurate tsunami evacuation maps for the entire 362 mile length of the Oregon coast.

The enhanced tsunami mapping and outreach program, TsunamiReady, TsunamiPrepared, will also build on the hard work coastal communities have already accomplished, or assist in work they are ready to begin, by supporting a grass roots program of awareness and preparedness. TsunamiReady, TsunamiPrepared will also provide much needed resources to help these communities create or maintain a sustained effort of education and preparation in anticipation of the next, inevitable tsunami to strike the Oregon coast.

Communities chosen for the first year of accelerated funding of the TsunamiReady, TsunamiPrepared program include Rockaway Beach, Manzanita, Nehalem, and Wheeler on the north coast, Yachats, Waldport and Seal Rock on the central coast and Bandon on the south coast. Adjacent state parks to these communities will also participate in the program, with details of individual community efforts being finalized.

Support for all coastal towns interested in accelerating their earthquake and tsunami programs is also available in many forms, from an on-line clearing house of resources and emergency prep ideas, to workshops, printed materials, and media resources.

"Many local communities at the coast have been working at tsunami preparedness for years. Our goal is to help build on those efforts to include the whole coast of Oregon," said Vicki McConnell, State Geologist. "We know a united, coast-wide, grass roots program of outreach and education begins in individual neighborhoods, and is the best way to save lives in the event of an earthquake and tsunami that impacts the Oregon coast."

This program of tsunami mapping and education has taken on a greater importance since new scientific research conducted by Dr. Chris Goldfinger, Director of the Active Tectonics and Seafloor Mapping Laboratory at Oregon State University, and ongoing research by DOGAMI geologists, suggests a much greater risk of a tsunami striking the Oregon coast than thought even a few years ago.

"New tsunami inundation modeling and mapping (showing how far the ocean pushes inland in a tsunami) has been done in Cannon Beach and Bandon and now with this 4 year grant from NOAA, we'll be able to move much faster to finish the rest of the coast," said Rob Witter, Regional Coastal Geologist and leader of the modeling and mapping team.

"There's actually a great deal families and businesses can do to prepare for earthquakes and tsunamis at the coast," said Althea Turner, Geologic Hazards Program Coordinator for Oregon Emergency Management. "With this new program we hope to reach nearly everyone in the tsunami inundation zone and provide them with the information they need to get themselves prepared. We welcome anyone in coastal communities interested in participating, and we in turn will help them bring tsunami preparedness to their neighborhood and community."

The new program will be administered by DOGAMI in collaboration with Oregon Emergency Management, the Oregon Coastal Zone Management Association and the National Weather Service.

The mission of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries is to provide earth science information and regulation to make Oregon safe and prosperous. http://www.OregonGeology.org


Attached Media Files: TsunamiReady, TsunamiPrepared

March 8, 2010

Questions: Andrea Cantu-Schomus, 503-947-5027

Governor Kulongoski proclaims Problem Gambling Awareness Week in Oregon

Problem gambling is a significant public health problem that affects thousands of Oregonians, their families, communities and employers. In recognition of this major issue, Governor Ted Kulongoski proclaimed March 7-13 as "Problem Gambling Awareness Week" in Oregon to coincide with the nationally declared awareness week."

More than 74,000 Oregon adults, or 2.7 percent, are believed to meet the criteria of a problem or pathological gambler. Yet only a fraction of these men and women seek treatment. Of the 1,861 Oregon problem gamblers that received publicly funded treatment in the fiscal year of 2008-2009, the average debt was $32,000. More than 100 clients reported gambling debts in excess of $100,000. In addition, about 38 percent of clients reported committing illegal acts to obtain gambling money; nearly 48 percent had suicidal thoughts; and 9 percent had attempted suicide in the past six months.

Treatment is available and it works. Oregon is recognized nationally as a leader in the field of problem gambling services. Treatment and counseling services are available to any Oregon resident at no charge to the individual. Services are also available to the family of the problem gambler at no cost. Nearly 40 outpatient treatment clinics across the state administer services. Oregon invests nearly $4.5 million annually to reduce and/ or prevent the negative effects of gambling.

"Most people can gamble without harmful consequences," said Paul D. Potter, problem gambling services manager at the Oregon Department of Human Services. "But for anyone who develops a problem, it is important for them to be aware of the resources that can help them into recovery."

If you or someone you know is gambling too much, you can call the Oregon Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-877-MY-LIMIT or chat live online with a certified gambling counselor at www.1877mylimit.org/. Each year the statewide helpline receives more than 2,000 calls.

During the week of March 7-13, communities nationwide are working to raise awareness of the consequences of problem gambling and the resources available for individuals whose gambling is causing disruption in their lives.

For events in your area, log onto the National Problem Gambling Awareness Week at
www.npgaw.org/participants/otherpartners.asp#OR.

# # #

March 4, 2010

Contact: Perrin Damon, 503- 945-5738;
Program contact: Max Brown, 503-945-6993

Oregon Disabilities Commission to meet March 11
________________________________________

Who: Oregon Disabilities Commission
What: Full Commission Meeting
When: Thursday, March 11, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where:Barbara Roberts Human Services Building,
500 Summer St. NE, Salem OR — Conference Room 252

Agenda: Items include:
• Call to order;
• Current issues: the Special Transportation Fund;
• Commission business: Review action items from last meeting, EPD Subcommittee report, commission Web site, February session wrap-up, mega conference planning including awards, outreach to youth and younger adults with disabilities, and other items;
• Liaison reports;
• Public comment;
• Adjourn.

The agenda is posted on the Oregon Disabilities Commission Web site, www.oregon.gov/DHS/spd/adv/odc/index.shtml.

The Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC) is a Governor-appointed commission housed in the Department of Human Services (DHS). The commission is charged by state statute to advise the Governor, the Oregon Legislature and appropriate state agency administrators on issues related to achieving full economic, social, legal and political equity for individuals with disabilities. ODC also acts as a coordinating link between and among public and private organizations serving individuals with disabilities.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed for individuals requesting assistive hearing devices, sign language interpreters or large-print materials. Individuals needing these types of accommodations should call DHS at 1-800-282-8096 at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting.

# # #

Date: March 4, 2010
Contact: Gene Evans, 503-947-5286 (desk); 503-269-7950 (cell)

2009 Data Book:
New report shows progress toward child welfare goals

The Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) announced today the release of 2009 information and statistics about children in Oregon's child welfare system. The 2009 Child Welfare Data Book, designed to provide more timely information about the children who come into Oregon's child protection system due to abuse or neglect, is now posted online.

This is the first time Oregon has released child welfare information in this more streamlined "data book" format. The 2009 Child Welfare Data Book contains the information that was included in the Status of Children report – but presented in a timelier manner.

Under the leadership of Erinn Kelley-Siel, director of the Children, Adults and Families (CAF) Division, DHS began to strategically focus its efforts to safely reduce the number of children in state foster care. The new report shows that those efforts are showing results.

A total of 13,291 children spent at least one day in foster care in 2009, continuing a trend of reductions over the past two years. On any given day last year, about 8,500 Oregon children were in foster care, and that number was nearly 9,800 just two years ago.

Although the number of children in foster care in Oregon declined, the state continues to place more children in foster care than most other states in the nation.

"Children and their families are the greatest resource we have as a state. Our job to protect and support the healing of some of Oregon's most vulnerable children and their families is critically important, and we are committed to continuously strengthening and improving our work," said Kelley-Siel.

"In this economy, the challenges facing children and their families, and the systems that support them, are becoming increasingly difficult and complex. This report demonstrates the child welfare system's efforts to respond to those challenges. Although there is more work to be done, the numbers in this report reflect the stories of thousands of children who are safer as a result of the department's work," said Kelley-Siel.

In 2009, DHS received 67,885 reports of child abuse and neglect — one report every eight minutes. That is an increase over 2008's total number of reports (65,460) and illustrates the importance Oregonians place on reporting suspected cases of child abuse and neglect. Investigations of these reports found that 11,090 children were victims of child abuse or neglect, an increase from last year's number of confirmed cases. Almost half of those victims were younger than age 6, and most — nearly 95 percent — were abused by someone in their family, most often a parent.

More than 1,100 children had adoptions finalized last year, and 78 percent of those children were adopted by relatives or foster parents. In 94 percent of cases, siblings were adopted together, preserving an important family connection for children.

Since 2007, the Oregon Legislature has made critical investments in four key areas of Oregon's child welfare system -- targeted addiction treatment and recovery services for parents, foster care reimbursement for relative caregivers, enhanced legal reviews in child dependency cases and additional child welfare staff.

Building on those investments, Oregon has set goals to safely reduce the number of children in foster care and to ensure that children in the child welfare system are safe, stable and healthy:
•Increase the number of children who remain safely at home after a founded report of neglect.
• Eliminate disproportionate treatment for children of color in foster care, especially African American and Native American children.
• Increase placements and connections with family (relatives) and ensure ongoing connections with parents and siblings.
• Increase the number of children leaving foster care – either to reunite with parents or to be adopted/have permanent guardianship arrangements.
• Decrease the length of time children spend in foster care.
• Strengthen support for out-of-home caregivers.
• Ensure that children in foster care receive timely, appropriate medical services and mental health assessments.
• Make Oregon a national leader for the absence of abuse in out-of-home care.
• Increase the number of foster care homes/placements available.

In working to achieve these goals, Kelley-Siel says urgent challenges remain: "Alcohol and drug use are the largest contributors to child abuse and neglect, followed closely by domestic violence, and our resources to help families and support victims are stretched thin," Kelley-Siel said. "African American and Native American children continue to be disproportionately represented in foster care. Ending that inequity is something we need to address across the state with the help of our local communities and partners."

2009 Child Welfare Data Book fast facts
Child protective services
• 67,885 reports of abuse and neglect were received, and 28,584 reports were referred for investigation.
• 7,240 referrals were founded for abuse or neglect—involving 11,090 victims.
• 48.1 percent of victims were younger than 6 years old.
• Threat of harm was the largest type of maltreatment incident experienced by victims (49.8 percent of incidents), followed by neglect incidents (31.1 percent of incidents).
Family services
• At 42.1 percent, alcohol and drug issues represented the largest single family stress factor when child abuse/neglect was present. The next most common stressors were domestic violence (31.7 percent) and parental involvement with law enforcement (27.0 percent).
• 34 percent of children served with an in-home case during the year received family-based services.
• A total of 9,140 children were served in their homes.
Foster care
• 13,291 children spent at least one day in some kind of foster care (8,466 children on an average daily basis).
• 5,830 children were in family foster care on an average daily basis, with almost 30 percent of those placed with relatives.
• 58.1 percent of children leaving foster care were reunited with their families.
• There were 4,429 certified family foster homes in 2009.
• Of children served in foster care, 62.5 percent were Caucasian, 6.4 percent did not have race recorded, 8.8 percent were Native American, 12.8 percent were Hispanic, 8.3 percent were African American, and 1.4 percent were Asian or Pacific Islander.
Adoption services
• 1,104 children had their adoptions finalized, with 32.6 percent of those children belonging to ethnic minorities. 77.8 percent of children adopted from DHS were adopted by relatives or non-relative foster parents.
• 575 children who were adopted had siblings also adopted during the year, primarily by the same family. 294 children exited foster care to guardianships.

To download a copy of the new 2009 Child Welfare Data Book (or copies of past Status of Children reports), go to www.oregon.gov/DHS/abuse/publications/children/index.shtml.

# # #

March 3, 2010

Contact: Andrea Cantu-Schomus, 503-947-5027

OHPB to discuss how to move forward with plan for comprehensive health reform

What: Public meeting of the Oregon Health Policy Board (OHPB)

When: March 9, 2010

Where: Market Square Building, 1515 SW 5th Avenue, 9th floor, Portland,
1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Live Web streamed at http://tinyurl.com/ya2c3bm.

Agenda: Director of DHS and Director Designee of OHA Bruce Goldberg will present the director's report, which will discuss the confirmation of the Medical Liability Taskforce membership, and add several members to the Outcomes Committee. Amy Fauver will then discuss the February legislative session and President Obama's reform proposal. Patty Wentz, director of communications for DHS and OHA, and OHA Community Engagement Coordinator Jeremy Vandehey will share the communications and outreach plan for the Oregon Health Authority. The meeting will then conclude with discussion of standards and next steps for patient-centered primary care, a discussion of the board's alignment and a blueprint for comprehensive health reform.

# # #

March 4, 2010

Questions: Andrea Cantu-Schomus, 503-947-5027;
Technical questions: Mary Ellen Glenn, 971-673-1674

Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission meetings planned for March

Prevention Subcommittee
What: Public meeting of the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission Prevention Subcommittee
When: March 5, 2010, 10 a.m.
Where: Portland State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Room 612, Portland

Full Commission Meeting
What: Public meeting of the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission
When: March 18, 2010, 1 p.m.
Where: Red Lion Hotel, 3301 Market Street NE, Salem

Structure Subcommittee
What: Public meeting of the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission Structure Subcommittee
When: March 25, 2010, 2 p.m.
Where: Barbara Roberts Human Services Building, 500 Summer St. NE, Salem

Accountability Subcommittee
What: Public meeting of the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission Accountability Subcommittee
When: March 29, 2010, 3:30 p.m.
Where: Legacy Health System, 1919 NW Lovejoy, Portland

# # #

March 3, 2010

Questions: Andrea Cantu-Schomus, 503-947 5027;
Technical questions: Karen Wheeler, 503-945-6191

Nearly 900 Oregon children and families stayed together
thanks to innovative addiction recovery services

When parents struggle with drug or alcohol addiction, families can stay intact and the state saves resources through comprehensive services, according to a recent report by Oregon's Department of Human Services.

The report analyzes two years of data from the Intensive Treatment and Recovery Services (ITRS) initiative, which provides families with addiction treatment and recovery support services. The program offers funding for housing, transportation and other services such as parent training and child care. These supports make it possible for families to stay together and lessen the time children spend in foster care. The program was created jointly by the DHS divisions of Addictions and Mental Health (AMH) and Children, Adults and Families (CAF).

"The services are recovery focused. We know when parents receive addiction treatment combined with other supports, they can keep their families together," says Karen Wheeler, AMH addictions policy and program development administrator. "Treating the parents' addiction does more than just save families. It prevents the cycle of addiction, creating healthier families and communities."

The report summarizes the first two years of ITRS and compares the outcomes with families receiving addiction services before ITRS was launched. The comparison shows that, with supportive and intensive treatment, the time children stay in foster care can be reduced or foster care can be avoided altogether. DHS found a median length of stay in foster care of 6.8 months for reunified children under ITRS compared to 8.9 months for children whose parents received services in 2005-2007.

Additionally, because foster care is a disruptive and expensive form of support for a child, the human and cost savings were dramatic. Since the program was launched nearly three years ago, 868 children or 40 percent were reunited with their parents, saving $1.7 million a month in foster care costs. This total includes food, clothing, shelter and caseworker time.

"Addictions issues are the single biggest factor for parents with children who end up in foster care," says Jay M. Wurscher, Children, Adults and Families child welfare alcohol and drug services coordinator. "ITRS allows child welfare caseworkers to focus on protecting the children while the alcohol and drug workers focus on the parents. The greatest motivational factor any substance abusing parents have toward achieving recovery is to retain the right to parent their own children."

The need for an intensive treatment program began to surface in 2005. At the time teams in AMH and CAF were seeing the numbers of families in the child welfare system dramatically increase due to drug use. It's estimated 60 percent of all children in foster care enter the system because of their parents' harmful level of substance abuse.

State legislators approved $10.4 million for the ITRS initiative in the 2007-2009 biennium and last year approved funding for another two years. Studies show investing in treatment is cost-effective. For every dollar invested, there is a $4 to $7 return due to reductions in crime, child abuse and neglect, and medical costs. These social costs of untreated addictions amount to approximately $1,600 every year for each Oregonian, or a total of nearly $6 billion.

# # #

March 1, 2010

Media contact: Christine Stone, 971-673-1282;
Program contact: Brittany Sande, 971-673-1291

Public Health Advisory Board meeting scheduled for Friday, March 5

Who: Public Health Advisory Board

What: Public meeting

When: Friday, March 5, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Public comment period is at 9:10 a.m. Comments are limited to three minutes.

Where: Portland State Office Building, 800 N.E. Oregon St., room 1E, Portland, Ore.

Agenda items include: public health update; discussion of budget priorities for 2011-2013; report on the Bureau of Labor's efforts to support the aging workforce; legislative concept proposals for 2011; Governor's reset Cabinet and a core issue review.

Oregon's Public Health Advisory Board serves as an advisory body to the director of the Department of Human Services. The board advises the director on policy matters related to the department's operation, provides review of statewide public health issues and participates in public health policy development.

# # #

For release: March 1, 2010

Contact: Perrin Damon, 503-945-5738;
Program contact: Dawn Rustrum, 503-947-5104

Governor's Commission on Senior Services
Executive Committee to meet March 4
________________________________________

Who: Governor's Commission on Senior Services
What: Executive Committee meeting
When: Thursday, March 4, 2010
Where: Barbara Roberts Department of Human Services Building,
500 Summer Street NE, Salem OR — Conference Room 167

Agenda
Call to order: 10 a.m.; workgroup updates: 10:05 a.m.; other items: 10:20 a.m.; member items: 10:55 a.m.; adjourn: 11 a.m.

Agenda is posted on the Governor's Commission on Senior Services Web site, www.oregon.gov/DHS/spd/adv/gcss/home.shtml.

The Governor's Commission on Senior Services is charged in Oregon statute with advising the Governor and the director of the Department of Human Services on needs of elderly persons, and recommending actions by the Governor, the Department of Human Services, other governmental entities and the private sector, appropriate to meet such needs.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed for individuals requesting assistive hearing devices, sign language interpreters or large-print materials. Individuals needing these types of accommodations should call DHS at 1-800-282-8096 at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting.

# # #

Feb. 26, 2010

Media contact: Perrin Damon, 503-945-5738;
Program contact: Cheryl Sanders-Miller, 503-378-2733

Oregon Home Care Commission to meet March 3 and 4, 2010

Who: Oregon Home Care Commission
What: Public meetings
When: Training Subcommittee, March 3, 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
Full Commission, March 4, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Where: 676 Church Street NE, Salem, OR

Agenda items for the full commission meeting include workers' compensation update, OHCC budget update, HUBB update, STEPS update, training update, registry update, House and Senate bill review, and executive director's report.

The commission is responsible for ensuring the quality of publicly funded in-home care services. The commission has three major charges: (1) to define qualifications of homecare workers; (2) to create a statewide registry of homecare workers; and (3) to provide training opportunities for homecare workers and consumers. Beyond these responsibilities, the Home Care Commission is also the "employer of record" for purposes of collective bargaining for homecare workers whose pay comes from public funds.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed for individuals requesting assistive hearing devices, sign language interpreters, or large-print materials. Individuals needing these types of accommodations should call DHS at 1-800-282-8096 at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting.

# # #

Feb. 25, 2010

The Physicians Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) Registry Advisory Committee will meet in Portland Monday, March 8, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in room 918 of the Portland State Office Building, 800 N.E. Oregon St., Portland.

The new statewide POLST Registry is being funded under the Oregon Health Authority as part of the statewide reform effort to give Oregonians more control over their health care and improve the quality of care.

Agenda:
• Welcome and introductions
• Oregon POLST Task Force history
• Relationship of advisory committee and task force
• Registry data review
• Developing performance indicators/quality indicators
• Education and outreach
• Questions, other issues
• Future joint meetings


# # #

Feb. 22, 2010
Program contact: Victor Fox, 971-673-0176;
Media contact: Christine Stone, 971-673-1282

Public meeting notice

What: Oregon HIV Care Coalition meeting

When: Friday, Feb. 26, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Oregon Department of Transportation Human Resources Center,
2775 19th St. SE, Suite A, Salem

Agenda:
9 a.m. - Convene general assembly;
9:30 a.m. - Public comment, sign in prior to 9 a.m., limit five minutes per person;
10 a.m. - HIV Care and Treatment Program report;
10:15 a.m. - Break;
10:30 a.m. - HIV and Hispanics;
Noon - Lunch break;
1 p.m. - Accessing care earlier in disease progression;
2:45 p.m. - Break;
3 p.m. - OHCC future agenda;
4 p.m. - Closing ceremony and adjourn.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed for individuals requesting assistive hearing devices, sign language interpreters or large-print materials. Individuals needing these types of accommodations may call Karen L. Smith at the Oregon Public Health Division, 971-673-0084, at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting.

Background: The Oregon HIV Care Coalition was formed in 1999 for the purpose of providing assistance to the HIV Care and Treatment Program to define a continuum of medical and supportive services for low-income persons living with HIV in the state. Members represent federal, state and local health and social services agencies and programs. Additional members are appointed to represent the perspectives of people living with HIV and of other stakeholders from the community.

###

Feb. 22, 2010

CONTACT: Carol Robinson, Oregon State Coordinator, Health Information Technology, 503-856-6662(cell), carol.robinson@state.or.us

Oregon receives $21 million in health technology grants

Oregon will jumpstart another key element of health care reform – increasing the use and effectiveness of electronic health record technologies – thanks to two federal grants announced this month.

Through the Federal Recovery Act, Oregon will receive more than $21 million over the next four years to develop a system of statewide health information exchange between hospitals, doctors' offices, pharmacies and other health care providers and help health providers develop electronic health record systems. The development of electronic infrastructure for secure transmittal of relevant patient information will help lower Oregon's health care costs and ensure the most effective and efficient care in every setting.

Oregon providers use electronic records at a higher rate than most states. Approximately 66 percent of Oregon clinicians (physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants) work in practices or clinics with access to electronic health records, compared to 44 percent nationally. However, without a statewide electronic health record system, health care providers often lack critical parts of patients' health history such as allergies or medication interactions.

To address the need for an integrated statewide electronic health records system, the Oregon Legislature specifically created a Health Information Technology Oversight Council within the Oregon Health Authority established by House Bill 2009. The council will coordinate Oregon's public and private statewide efforts in electronic health records adoption and develop a statewide system for health information exchange.

Through statewide health information exchange, health care providers will have secure and instant access to medical history, prescriptions, allergies, and all the information necessary to provide health care, whether or not a person has been previously treated at that site. The technology will help consumers avoid unnecessary and invasive tests and ensure that medications don't conflict with other prescriptions. Insurance claims and billing information will also be handled electronically, saving time and money across the health care system.

"Electronic health records are an important step forward," says Dr. Bruce Goldberg, director designee of the Oregon Health Authority. "Having access to complete and accurate information will help providers improve care and reduce costs."

The $21 million will be allocated through two grants. The Office for Oregon Health Policy and Research will receive $8.58 million to administer for the Health Information Technology Oversight Council. This group is charged with developing plans for secure statewide health information exchange (HIE) between providers and across jurisdictions.

The second grant, for $13.2 million, went to OCHIN Inc. and Oregon Health & Sciences University, as partners in Oregon's designated Regional Extension Center (REC). The organizations will provide technical assistance to health care providers to purchase, upgrade and implement their electronic health record systems. Oregon's center is one of dozens set up across the country for this purpose. "The center is here to help providers learn effective ways to use technology with the ultimate goal of improving individual and population-based health outcomes," says Abby Sears, OCHIN chief executive officer. The centers, modeled on the national agricultural extension center system, will also be central places to share information and best practices. OCHN is planning an informational open house to launch the Oregon center. For more information, go to www.OCHIN.org.

For more information about Oregon's Health Information Technology Oversight Council, go to www.oregon.gov/OHPPR/HITOC/index.shtml.

# # #

Feb. 19, 2010
Media contact: Christine Decker Stone, 971-673-1282, desk; 503-602-8027, cell; Christine.L.Stone@state.or.us

Listeriosis prompts cheese recall:
Recalled Mexican-style soft cheeses are from a Washington company

Oregon Public Health Division officials today are alerting consumers about a recall of Mexican-styles cheese made by Queseria Bendita, a Yakima, Wash., company. The presence of Listeria bacteria in these products prompted the recall.

"All soft cheese products made by this company are being recalled," said William Keene, Ph.D., M.P.H., a senior epidemiologist at the Oregon Public Health Division. "Consumers and food service providers who have any of these cheeses should discard them immediately or return them for a refund." The recalled cheeses are labeled "Queso Fresco," "Requeson" and "Panela."

At least five listeriosis cases have been identified recently in Oregon and Washington. All five people had been hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported. Case investigations by public health agencies in both states identified Queseria Bendita cheese as a suspect, and subsequent testing of ready-to-eat products found matching organisms.

The recalled cheeses are sold primarily at Hispanic specialty markets in the greater Portland and Umatilla County areas, but may have been resold to Mexican restaurants or other outlets.

Queseria Bendita has ceased production and distribution of its products as the Washington State Department of Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration and the company continue their investigations into what caused the problem.

Listeriosis is an infection that affects mostly older people, pregnant women, newborns and adults with weakened immune systems. However, people without these risk factors can also be affected. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches and sometimes gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea. If infection spreads to the nervous system, symptoms such as headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance or convulsions can occur. Infected pregnant women may have only a mild illness, but infections during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth, premature delivery or infection of the newborn. Since 2000, an average of 10 cases of listeriosis per year have been reported in Oregon.

Consumers who have questions about the recall can call 509-574-8587, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Oregon Health Division advises people who have eaten these products and have developed severe symptoms to contact a health care provider.
# # #
Note: A Spanish-(and well as English-) speaking expert is available for media interviews if needed.

Date: Feb. 19, 2010

Contact: Nelsa Brodie, 503-945-5690

Applications for Oregon Health Plan mailed to low-income Oregonians

The first drawing from the Oregon Health Plan reservation list has been completed, resulting in 2,000 Oregonians receiving plan application packets this week. The packet mailing is part of the ongoing process to bring 35,000 adults into the Oregon Health Plan.

"Once a person's name is drawn they can apply for coverage and, if they are eligible, they will be enrolled into the Oregon Health Plan," says Judy Mohr Peterson, director of the Division of Medical Assistance Programs. "This coverage will mean they can receive the basic medical care and treatments that people who have coverage take for granted."

Due to a provider tax passed in the 2009 Oregon Legislature, there is funding for 35,000 low-income Oregon adults. Because there are an estimated 140,000 Oregonians who would qualify for OHP based on income, the state has created a reservation list and will hold monthly drawings from the list.

"I am very encouraged that we are able to provide health care coverage to more Oregonians," says Mohr Peterson. "We are working with health care providers in local communities throughout the state to help spread the word about the available health care coverage. Our goal is to reach as many uninsured Oregonians as possible so everyone has an equal chance to apply for coverage."

The next drawing will be March 1. To be included in it, names must be received before that date. Monthly drawings and application mailings will be held until OHP Standard projected capacity is reached.

To be added to the reservation list, low-income Oregonians should call 1-800-699-9075 or 711 for TTY service. Oregonians can also register on the Web site at www.ohplist.oregon.gov. Reservation request forms are also available at local Department of Human Services offices, local county health departments, and most hospitals and health care clinics.

Eligibility is based on strict income limits of less than 100 percent of the federal poverty level, which is based on the number of people in a household. For example, the limit is $903 for an individual or $1,526 for a family of three.

OHP Standard covers physician services, prescription drugs, mental health and chemical dependency treatment, emergency medical services and limited dental, hospital and vision services. Monthly premiums for adults range from free to $20, depending on income and household size.

Mohr Peterson points out families with children should also be aware of the Healthy Kids plan.

Children do not have to wait on a reservation list, thanks to the Oregon Healthy Kids plan. Children and teens up to age 19 may qualify today. Call 1-877-314-5678 or visit the Healthy Kids Web site at www.oregonhealthykids.gov.

"If you have kids, don't wait to call. Your children may be eligible for free or affordable health care today," says Mohr Peterson.
# # #

(Salem) -- Public health and local officials will hold a briefing panel Thursday in Salem to discuss a new, national, county-by-county health snapshot of Oregon. The event is sponsored by Community Health Partnership.

WHAT: State and local officials will discuss the first-time report from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute ranking counties in Oregon. The report looked at access to healthy foods, diabetic screening, binge drinking, tobacco use, obesity rates, high school graduation rates, unemployment, community safety, unsafe sex, teen pregnancy and many other factors. The report can help identify strengths and weaknesses in each county to better address healthy living issues.

WHO: Speakers include:
• Mary Lou Hennrich, executive director, Community Health Partnership: Oregon's Public Health Institute;
• Mel Kohn, MD, MPH, director, Public Health Division, Oregon Department of Human Services;
• Kathleen O'Leary, RN, MPH, chair, Coalition of Local Health Officials;
• Genni Lehnert, RN, administrator, Umatilla County Health
• Bob Moore, MD, health officer, Yamhill County Public Health;
• Paula E. Sampson, RN, MS, director, Lincoln County Health and Human Services Department;
• Dick Schouten, commissioner, Washington County.

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 18, 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

WHERE: Oregon Capitol Building, Conference Room 350,
900 Court St. NE, Salem


DETAILS: For more information, please visit www.countyhealthrankings.org

Oregon gets report card on who is healthiest:
National report shows how multiple factors can influence your health

Benton County has the healthiest residents in Oregon, according to a new national report released today that ranks each county in every state.

The report by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is the first annual "health checkup" ranking counties using such criteria as the length and quality of life of county residents as well as health behaviors, clinical care, social and economic factors and physical environment. This is the first time people will be able to see how the overall health of their county compares to others in the state.

"These rankings show that good health happens where we live, work and play, and the choices we make as a community. The report raises many questions and my hope is that our counties will examine the issues and improve the health in their communities," Mel Kohn, M.D., M.P.H., director of Oregon Public Health, said.

After Benton, the top 10 counties in descending order include Washington, Clackamas, Polk, Hood River, Deschutes, Grant, Wasco, Wallowa and Marion.

Gilliam, Sherman and Wheeler counties were not ranked because of inadequate data or data that was not comparable to other counties.

The lowest 10 counties are Jefferson, Coos, Curry, Linn, Josephine, Lincoln, Baker, Douglas, Lake, Klamath and Jefferson — which ranks as the least healthy county. Multnomah County barely missed being in the bottom 10 counties by coming in at number 21 out of 33.

The report used five measures to assess the level of overall health or health outcomes for Oregon by county: the rate of people dying before age 75, the percent of people who report being in fair or poor health, the numbers of days people report being in poor physical and poor mental health, and the rate of low-birth weight babies.

The report looked at factors that affect people's health within four categories: health behavior, clinical care, social and economic factors, and physical environment. Some of the many health factors they evaluated included the rates of adult smoking, adult obesity, binge drinking, and teenage pregnancy; the number of uninsured adults; availability of primary care providers; preventable hospital stays; rates of high school graduation; number of children in poverty and violent crime; access to healthy foods; air pollution levels; and liquor store density.

For example, Hood River County ranked first in access to clinical care but came in fifth overall. Even in the lowest-ranked counties there were positive health factors, such as in Jefferson, which was ranked second for physical environment.

"A community's health is determined by more than just its health care system. Health is everyone's business. We can use the information in this report as a call to action for the health of all Oregonians," Kohn said.

One of the first steps is for communities to meet and talk about ways to bring healthy living to their county. Oregon Public Health with Community Health Partnership is hosting a legislative breakfast Thursday, Feb. 18, and a briefing before the Oregon House of Representatives and Human Services Committee, planned for Friday, Feb. 19, to inform state leaders about the importance of these health indicators.

The entire online report for each state is available at www.countyhealthrankings.org.

# # #

Feb. 16, 2010

Questions: Wendy Hausotter, 503-945-9703

Young artists wanted for DHS problem gambling awareness calendar

All Oregon middle school students are invited to submit artwork that could be chosen to illustrate the 2011 Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) problem gambling awareness calendar. Last year more than 1,000 entries were collected. Twelve designs will be selected, one for each month of the year. Entry deadline is March 19, 2010.

This eighth annual art search is conducted in partnership with local problem gambling prevention and outreach coordinators. Students are urged to express their feelings and perceptions about problem gambling through their art. These unique messages are shared with schools and partners statewide.

"Gambling is everywhere and our kids are more exposed than ever before. Right now we estimate that up to 6,300 adolescents have severe gambling-related difficulties in Oregon," said Paul D. Potter, DHS problem gambling services manager. "The calendar will help raise awareness of a problem that affects Oregon teens and adults."

Artwork should illustrate one of ten different messages (see problem gambling prevention Web site, below) and be entered on letter-size white paper with the name of the student artist, grade level, school and city on the back. DHS and its partners will judge the entries. Gift certificates will be awarded to 12 students.

Submit entries to Greta Coe, Human Services Building, 500 Summer St. NE, E86, Salem, OR 97301.

Details about the art search, including suggested art themes, are available online at www.problemgamblingprevention.org/art-search.htm.

###

Feb. 16, 2009

Questions: Andrea Cantu-Schomus, 503-947-5027
Technical questions: Mary Ellen Glynn, 971-673-1674

Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission subcommittees continue to meet

Structure Subcommittee
What: Public meeting of the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission Structure Subcommittee
When: Feb. 18, 2010, 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Multnomah County Commission building, 501 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, Oregon

Treatment Subcommittee
What: Public meeting of the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission Treatment Subcommittee
When: Feb. 23, 2010, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Department of Corrections, 2575 Center Street NE, Salem Oregon

# # #

Feb. 16, 2010

Who: Continuing Care Retirement Community Advisory Council
What: Rule Advisory Committee meeting
When: Feb. 19, 9 a.m. to noon
Where: Client Care Monitoring Unit
Seniors and People with Disabilities Division
519 Fairview Industrial Dr. SE
Salem, OR

Agenda:
Call to order and introductions
Current issues:
OAR 411 Division 067 Implementation Plan;
Rule change discussion;
Next meeting(s)
Adjourn

The Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) Advisory Council comprises nine members appointed by the Department of Human Services (DHS). The composition of the council includes providers, residents, a CPA, an attorney and a representative from the business community. The council acts in an advisory capacity and makes recommendations to the department on all proposed rule changes related to CCRCs.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided for individuals requesting assistive hearing devices, sign language interpreters or large-print materials. Individuals needing these types of accommodations should call DHS at 1-800-282-8096 at least 48 hours before the meeting.

###

Contact: Perrin Damon, 503-945-5738

New year brings continued demand for state assistance

January figures released today by the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) show demand for food and cash assistance continued to rise in the first month of the new year. In January, enrollment in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps) rose by more than 7,800 people. Enrollment in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, which provides cash assistance for low-income families with children, rose by 484 families.

Overall, Oregonians receiving SNAP benefits rose to 683,661, a 27.8 percent increase over a year ago. Similarly, families enrolled in TANF totaled 26,153, a 15.7 increase from January 2009. In the past two years SNAP households have increased by more than 53 percent and TANF by more than 37 percent, reflecting the impact of the recession.

"This economic downturn has made it more difficult than ever for Oregonians and their families to be self-sufficient," said Erinn Kelley-Siel, director of the DHS Children, Adults and Families Division. "SNAP and TANF help provide a safety net for people – helping families maintain stability while they find and keep jobs, protecting the health and well-being of low-income children, and supporting local economies."

To be eligible for SNAP benefits, households must earn less than 185 percent of the federal poverty level and meet other criteria. Benefits are determined on a sliding scale. For a family of four, the income limit is less than $3,400 per month, with a maximum benefit for the same household of $684 per month. The overall average SNAP household benefit is approximately $243 per month. As its name implies, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits are intended to supplement a family's overall food budget, not to cover it entirely.

TANF cash assistance is available only to families with children age 18 or younger. Most participants are unemployed or underemployed, or the primary wage earner is incapacitated; therefore the program provides opportunities for job preparation and on-the-job training to build personal responsibility and self-reliance. Benefits are determined on a sliding scale. A two-parent family with two children and no other income and who meet specific criteria would receive a maximum monthly TANF benefit of $647.

• To learn if you might be eligible for SNAP benefits, TANF, the Oregon Health Plan or other services, visit your local DHS office. You may also go online to www.OregonHelps.org and see if you may be eligible for these and other programs.

• To download applications for TANF and SNAP benefits, go to www.oregon.gov/dhs/assistance.

• DHS also partners with SafeNet to help people find local resources such as food pantries and other assistance. The number is 1-800-SAFENET (1-800-723-3638).

• Oregon veterans and their families are encouraged to find out about benefits you may have earned as a result of military service. Go online at www.oregon.gov/ODVA/BENEFITS/ to find out more.

###


Attached Media Files: DHS January 2010 Caseload Report

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) will graduate its 316th Basic Police Class on Friday, February 26, 2010 at 1100 in the Hall of Heroes at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem. Sheriff Daniel Staton of Multnomah County will be the guest speaker. The class includes officers and deputies from agencies statewide.

The Basic Police Class is 16-weeks in length and includes dozens of training areas including survival skills, firearms, emergency vehicle operations, ethics, cultural diversity, problem solving, elder abuse, drug recognition, and many other subjects.

- Members of Basic Police Class #316 -

Arnold, David - Portland Police Bureau
Bergey, Emily - Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
Boyd, Matthew - Portland Police Bureau
Ceaser, Madison - Portland Police Bureau
Clark, Thomas - Portland Police Bureau
Doran, Ericka - Medford Police Department
Doughty, Travis - Tigard Police Department
Dressler, Aaron - Eugene Police Department
Freeman, Jaired - Josephine County Sheriff's Office
Garibay, Michael - Wheeler County Sheriff's Office
Gilder, Brent - Corvallis Police Department
Griffin, Chadd - Central Point Police Department
Hackstedt, Adam - Corvallis Police Department
Hall, Daniel - Sherman County Sheriff's Office
Holder, Jonathan - Josephine County Sheriff's Office
Kamphuis, Kendall - Portland Police Bureau
Knight, Guy - Seaside Police Department
Krumpschmidt, Kent - Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
Lazzini, Kathleen - Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
Mecham, Melissa - Jackson County Sheriff's Office
Miller, Chad - Jackson County Sheriff's Office
Miller, Daniel - Corvallis Police Department
Newhard, Melissa - Portland Police Bureau
Pelayo, Daniel - John Day Police Department
Quinones, Jared - Springfield Police Department
Quinsland, Alexander - Portland Police Bureau
Reilly, Scott - Aurora Police Department
Renfro, Kevin - Monmouth Police Department
Rice, Shane - Yamhill County Sheriff's Office
Russell, Eric - Hillsboro Police Department
Sapper, John - Portland Police Bureau
Scarpelli, Laura - Portland Police Bureau
Scow, Steven - Jackson County Sheriff's Office
Shevlin, James - Jefferson County Sheriff's Office
Silverman, Joshua - Portland Police Bureau
Smith, Jesse - Eugene Police Department
Stutesman, Will - Eugene Police Department
Wallace, Jesse - Josephine County Sheriff's Office
Ware, Michael - Eugene Police Department
Withington, Michael - Corvallis Police Department
Zishka,Adam - Multnomah County Sheriff's Office

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) operates the Oregon Public Safety Academy which spans more than 212 acres in Salem. Eriks Gabliks serves as the Director, and Sheriff Andy Bentz of Malhuer County serves as the Chair of the Board. The department implements minimum standards established by the Board for training and certification of city, county and state law enforcement officers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, fire service personnel, telecommunicators, emergency medical dispatchers and private security providers. DPSST provides training to more than 30,000 students each year throughout Oregon and at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem: certifies qualified officers at various levels from basic through executive; certifies qualified instructors; and reviews and accredits training programs throughout the state based on standards established by the Board.

SALEM—The Assessment and Taxation subcommittee of the Task Force on Effective and Cost-efficient Service Provision will hold its third meeting from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 26, at the State Lands Building, 775 Summer St. NE, Room 201, Salem.

The meeting is open to the public.

House Bill 2920 charged the task force with reviewing state and county shared services in four areas: assessment and taxation; elections; human services; and criminal justice. The task force will focus on restructuring government to be more effective and cost efficient.

At the meeting, the subcommittee will:
• Hear presentations from invited guests representing citizens, businesses, and nonprofit organizations.
• Hear an update on Department of Revenue projects.
• Review internet survey responses and list of suggestions.
• Determine next steps.

Subcommittee members include: Chair Elizabeth Harchenko, director, Department of Revenue; Multnomah County Commissioner Judy Shiprack; Beaverton Mayor Denny Doyle; Tualatin Valley Rural Fire District Board member Clark Balfour; and Sarah Miller, Oregon Business Development Department.

-30-

SALEM—From anvils to zeppelins, the personal property you use in your business may be taxed.

If you're a business owner, the time to file your personal property return is March 1, according to the Oregon Department of Revenue.

Oregon law requires that all business owners—even owners of home-based businesses—file a return with their county assessor that lists all business-related personal property.

Personal property includes anything you use for business purposes. It also includes leased equipment, such as copiers.

The county assessor calculates the tax due each year based on the business owner's personal property return. The assessor may cancel the tax if total personal property is valued under $15,000.

However, even if your business' personal property value falls below $15,000, you still must file a return, according to Michele Pedersen, a department tax analyst.


If you're a business owner, you must file a return each year even if:
• you didn't receive a tax return form from the county in which your business property is located;
• the tax was cancelled in prior years;
• you sold or closed the business during the year; or
• you sold or disposed of the personal property.

"If a business owner files late," Pedersen said, "there is a penalty that varies from 5 percent to 50 percent of the taxes due, depending on how late the return is filed."

Personal property is included as part of the business owner's property tax statement. The tax is due each November 15.

For more information, including forms and a complete list of items considered taxable personal property, visit www.oregon.gov/DOR/PTD/ValFact.shtml.

You may also contact your county assessor's office or call the Oregon Department of Revenue, 503-378-4988 (Salem or outside Oregon), or toll-free from an Oregon prefix, 1-800-356-4222. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), call 1-800-886-7204; Salem, 503-945-8617. Customer service representatives are busy during tax season, so you may experience extended wait times.

-30-

SALEM - Governor Ted Kulongoski has proclaimed March 10 as Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) Day to honor 25 female pilots from Oregon who flew non-combat military missions during World War II.

The WASP was established during World War II for the primary purpose of flying non-combat missions for the U.S. in order to free the male military pilots for combat. Between 1942 and 1944, nearly 25,000 women applied for the program. Of the 1,830 who were accepted, only 1,074 women successfully completed the flight training.

Governor Kulongoski said the WASP were fearless and committed to their wartime duty.

"Through their ability, courage and hard work, these dedicated women proved to everyone that women are outstanding pilots," the Governor said. "They flew military aircraft more than three decades before females in the United States were even allowed to attend military pilot training. They were true leaders that broke down the gender barriers of their time."

The WASP were trained to ferry aircraft, test planes, instruct male pilots, and tow targets for anti-aircraft artillery practice. They were the first female pilots to fly almost every type of military aircraft operated by the U.S. Army at the time. WASP were stationed at air bases around the U.S. and flew nearly 60 million miles of non-combat missions.

Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs Director Jim Willis said these brave women were all pioneers who paved the way for America's future female military pilots and aircrew.

"These ladies proved their skill and valor during the height of World War II and today we again salute their service. America will always be indebted to the WASP for stepping forward and inspiring a generation of future female aviators," Willis said.

These pilots finally gained their belated military recognition from Congress in 1977 thus making them eligible for veterans benefits. In June 2009, Congress unanimously approved a bill that would make WASP veterans eligible to receive the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor Congress can bestow.

President Barack Obama will award the medals to surviving WASP, or their surviving family members, in a ceremony Washington DC on March 10.

Less than 300 are still living today. In Oregon there are less than 10 surviving WASP.
###


Attached Media Files: 2010-03/1082/WASP_3_10_10.pdf

SALEM, OREGON - The 2010 Oregon Women Veterans Conference will be held Friday and Saturday, March 26-27, at Seven Feathers Resort and Casino in Canyonville.

This free two-day event is packed with educational workshops on issues that are important to women veterans. There also will be guest speakers, entertainment, and camaraderie with more than 400 fellow women veterans in attendance.

The conference runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both Friday and Saturday. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. both days and lunch will be provided; however, advanced registration is required. Space is limited.

Women veterans interested in attending, please call the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs at 1-800-692-9666, ext. 2090 or 2264 or download a registration form at www.oregon.gov/odva.wvc.shtml.

After registering, be sure to reserve your room at Seven Feathers by calling 1-800-548-8461. Let them know you are attending the Oregon Women Veterans Conference.

###


Attached Media Files: 2010-03/1082/2010_Women_Veterans_Conference_Flyer.pdf

The Oregon Recreation Trails Advisory Council (ORTAC) is seeking nominations for its annual Doug Newman Recreation Trails Achievement Award honoring individuals and groups for significant contributions to non-motorized trail development.

Written nominations must be submitted to State Recreation Trails Coordinator Rocky Houston of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department in a letter or e-mail by April 15, 2010. Nominators should briefly describe the accomplishments of their nominees in 2009, telling how they:

1) Benefitted, or will benefit, a large number of diverse trail users;

2) Contributed to the planning, design, development, or maintenance of recreation trails, showing the significance of their impact locally, regionally or statewide, and

3) Inspired other contributors.

The general public as well as government agencies and members of organizations that promote non-motorized trail recreation are welcome to submit nominations for the award. More information can be obtained from Rocky Houston at 503-986-0750, or by e-mail at Rocky.Houston@state.or.us.

The award, which was first presented in 1993, is named in memory of former ORTAC member Doug Newman of Eugene. Newman was an avid outdoor recreation advocate and an outdoors reporter for The Register-Guard. ###

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission will meet March 18 at the Village Green Resort, 725 Row River Road, in Cottage Grove.

Preceded by budget training and a water management workshop, the commission's business meeting will begin at 10:40 a.m. in the resort's Cascadia B conference room. A complete meeting agenda is posted at http://egov.oregon.gov/OPRD/2010MarchCOM_draft_Agenda.pdf.

The commission has specific authority to establish policy and adopt rules for the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, acquire property for state parks, and set fees for the use of park facilities. Its seven members are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate.

The meeting site is accessible to people with disabilities. Special accommodations may be arranged up to 72 hours in advance by calling 503-986-0655. ###

(EDITORS NOTE: Meeting agenda attached for your convenience.)


Attached Media Files: 2010-03/1303/March_draft_Agenda.doc

The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries will be visiting Brownsville on March 5 and 6. The Commission will hold its public meeting and two workshops at the Brownsville Public Library, 146 Spaulding Ave.

Friday's events include a Designing Projects for Successful Grants Workshop
from 9:00am to 11:00am, the Commission Meeting from 1:00 to 4:00pm and a tour at Brownsville Pioneer Cemetery beginning at 4:30pm. Saturday's workshop will be Maintaining and Preserving Cemetery Records Workshop from 9:00am to 4:00pm.

The grant workshop will emphasize the Oregon Heritage Grants, the Oregon Museums Grants and the Historic Cemeteries Grant offered by Heritage Programs of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, but the information can be applied to any grant. The cemetery records workshop will review the types of information to collect, how to organize and preserve paper records and explore various electronic approaches to manage records. We will discuss some of the current software and what to look for to meet your cemetery's needs. All workshops are free of charge.

Agenda items will include legislative issues, current projects and upcoming plans. The commission will invite public comments.

State law established the seven-member commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances.

The public is encouraged to participate at all events. Contact: Kuri Gill, Historic Cemeteries Program and CLG Coordinator at Kuri.Gill@state.or.us or (503) 986-0685 for more information.
###

A Designing Projects for Successful Grants Workshop will be offered online, March 1 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The workshop will available via the internet and toll free conference call.

The workshop is free to all who are interested. It will cover how to plan your project and write about it for a successful grant application. We will emphasize the Oregon Heritage Grants, the Oregon Museums Grants and the Historic Cemeteries Grant offered by Heritage Programs of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, but the information can be applied to any grant.

Contact: Kuri Gill, Historic Cemeteries Program and CLG Coordinator at Kuri.Gill@state.or.us or (503) 986-0685 to register.
###

Eagle Watch 2010 will celebrate one of Oregon's largest assemblies of winter migratory bald eagles along with the other raptors that help make Lake Billy Chinook a wildlife viewing mecca Feb. 27-28.

Timed to coincide with the eagles' arrival at the central Oregon reservoir, which is 25 miles west of Madras, the annual event is a mix of presentations, tours and demonstrations that explore the natural and cultural significance of eagles and other raptors in the area. "Eagle Watch is a special time to gather together and share in the natural, cultural and spiritual significance that the eagle represents," said Robert "Bobby" Brunoe, natural resource general manager for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. The Tribes along with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) and Portland General Electric (PGE) are the event's primary sponsors.

"The event offers a fantastic opportunity to see both bald and golden eagles in a spectacular setting," said OPRD's Paul Patton, the event's coordinator. "We have 10 pairs of bald eagles and 10 pairs of golden eagles now staying all year in the Lake Billy Chinook area." He adds that the migrant raptors that join them are primarily from Canada and Alaska.

Regional birds of prey experts and volunteers representing numerous public and private non-profit groups will again provide a wide variety of presentations and activities at PGE's Round Butte Overlook Park visitor center near Culver. The 15th annual weekend event will begin with a 9 a.m. opening ceremony at the park and continue until 4 p.m. on Saturday (Feb. 27). Sunday's activities will run from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory staff will give a special introductory presentation, "Eagles 101," on Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to noon at Overlook Park. Blue Mountain Wildlife of Pendleton will showcase life birds of prey in ongoing presentations from 1-4 p.m. Special rotating presentations will occur at the same time and again Sunday from 10 a.m.-noon. The presentations will include:

• "The Eagles of Lake Billy Chinook"
• "Bald Eagles: Watching Them Watch Us Watch Them"
• "The Effect of Lead on Raptors" [Saturday only]
• "Owls 101" [Sunday only]
• "Choosing Field Optics"

All eagle viewing and other bird watching tours will start at Overlook Park. The eagle viewing excursions will be led from 10-11:30 a.m. and 1-4 p.m. Saturday, and from 10 a.m.-noon Sunday. Members of the East Cascades Audubon Society will guide birding tours from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m.-noon Sunday.

Early risers can get a head start on Sunday's viewing activities by joining the annual Sunrise Eagle Tour at 5:30 a.m. at The Cove Palisades State Park. The special tour is sponsored by Raven Research West.

A raptor identification contest, a dramatic Native American cultural program sponsored by Warm Springs Power and Water Enterprises, and a prize drawing will conclude the event at Overlook Park. Eagle viewing, however, will continue at viewpoints in The Cove Palisades State Park until 4 p.m., and at Smith Rock State Park, nine miles northeast of Redmond, from 4-5 p.m.

Eagle Watch sponsors and partners will provide exhibits and presentations on the event grounds both days. The presentations will include a special appearance by accomplished Nez Perce artist John Finch, who will showcase his wildlife and portrait art.

The event also will include a variety of fun and educational children's activities. "This great event brings together people of all ages from all walks of life." said PGE park operations manager Tony Dentel. "Whether you are an expert birder or just a casual observer, you have plenty of interesting things to see and do at an Eagle Watch."

PGE hydrologists and biologists will be on hand both days of the event describing the progress of restoring anadromous fish runs above the Pelton-Round Butte Hydroelectric Project area.

Admission to all Eagle Watch activities is free. The Cove Palisades State Park offers year-round camping. Campsite and log cabin reservations can be made by calling 1-800-452-5687, or online though the OPRD website, www.oregonstateparks.org.

Other Eagle Watch sponsors include The Oregon Eagle Foundation Inc.; the Crooked River National Grassland; the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife; Oregon State University; The Museum at Warm Springs; the United States Department of Fish and Wildlife; Earth2O; KWSO Radio; the Madras-Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce; and the TELCOM Pioneers of America.

For more information on Eagle Watch 2010, call the Oregon State Parks Information Center at
1-800-551-6949. Event details also are posted at www.oregonstateparks.org. ###

Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept
February 17, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Chris Havel, desk: 503-986-0722, cell: 503-931-2590

Salem OR – On February 16, the National Association of State Park Directors (www.naspd.org) introduced the America's State Parks alliance (www.americasstateparks.com) to mobilize and educate the public and policy makers on the positive impact state parks have on public health and local economies.

Americans demonstrated a strong demand for budget-friendly outdoor recreation and cultural tourism within easy access to home, with more than 725 million visits to America's state parks in 2009. Whether hiking at Silver Falls State Park in Oregon, kayaking in the Chesapeake Bay or surfing a Southern California beach, state parks ranked among the most popular leisure time choices for Americans. Silver Falls State Park was recently voted one of the nation's top ten walks by About.com and the American Volkssport Association (http://walking.about.com/od/trails/a/topten2009.htm).

"Oregonians have a strong connection to their parks," says Tim Wood, Director, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. "We serve 42 million visitors a year, and everyone has their favorite state park to rest and recharge."

"Building state parks creates jobs and operating state parks stimulates outdoor recreation and tourism spending. That translates to a huge boon to our local economies," says NASPD President Joe Elton, Director of Virginia State Parks. "In 2009 visitors to state parks across America helped create a $20 billion economic impact, which is an incredible return on investment given that the overall budget expenditure nationwide is less than $2.3 billion."

"Simple outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping on public lands and waters can serve as a gateway to a healthier lifestyle," says former White House Fellow Michael Suk, MD who served with the Department of the Interior and is Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Florida.

All Oregon's 190+ state parks are ready to welcome visitors this year, thanks to ongoing funding support from park visitors, recreational vehicle registrations and the Oregon Lottery. Oregon voters dedicated lottery to state parks in 1998, and continued investments in repairs, improvements and new parks over the last 10 years have protected Oregon's state parks from the threat of decline. Though both Lottery and RV funds have dipped recently—leading to a 13% smaller department budget—all state parks will be open this year thanks to increased support from park visitors and prudent budgeting. The agency does not receive general tax funding, and hasn't since 1999.

The America's State Parks alliance will work to share resources, best practices and engage in national partnerships with private businesses for stewardship programs, providing financial and material support for state parks as demand grows and budgets decline.

About the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD)
Comprised of fifty state park directors, the NASPD (www.naspd.org) was founded in 1962. The mission of the Association is to promote and advance the state park systems of America for their own significance, as well as for their important contributions to the nation's environment, heritage, health and economy.

About America's State Parks
America's State Parks will help capture the collective strength and importance of the great park systems developed in the 50 states. With over 6,000 units and more than 725 million visits, America's State Parks works to enhance the American quality of life. NASPD board members representing each region of the country will govern the America's State Parks alliance.

# # #


Attached Media Files: America's State Parks logo

Oregon's Scenic Bikeway Committee will meet Feb. 24 at the University of Phoenix Learning Center, 670 Hawthorne Avenue SE, in Salem. The session will be from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the center's first floor classroom complex.

The committee considers routes nominated by the public for state scenic bikeway designation. Its 11 members include representatives of bicycle advocacy organizations, local governments, and state agencies involved in bicycling recreation or transportation.

The meeting site is accessible to people with disabilities. Special accommodations may be arranged up to 72 hours in advance by calling 503-986-0655. ###

Gov. Ted Kulongoski has appointed Donald Peting from Eugene to serve on the nine-member State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP). Peting, who retired in 2002 after a thirty-nine year career with the University of Oregon teaching architectural design, technology and historic preservation, joins other professionals on the committee affiliated with historic preservation- and cultural resource-related fields.

Peting is a licensed architect in Oregon and Washington doing residential design, commercial design and historic preservation. His most recent project was at Heceta Headlands involving the complete restoration of the 1894 lighthouse keeper's duplex, now owned by the U.S. Forest Service. Peting also directs the annual Pacific Northwest Historic Preservation Field School, a multi-week, on site workshop program that he began in 1995.

The SACHP reviews and votes on the eligibility of nominations to the National Register of Historic Places in Oregon and meets three times per year to review nominations brought forward by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The next meeting will be in Coos Bay on February 11-12. For more information about the SACHP and the National Register program, visit http://www.oregonheritage.org/OPRD/HCD/NATREG/index.shtml

The Statewide Database Licensing Advisory Committee (SDLAC) will meet in Conference Room B9 and, as necessary, via telephone conference call at the State Library on Friday March 5, 2010 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm PST. The draft agenda is included.

This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact MaryKay Dahlgreen (marykay.dahlgreen@state.or.us or 503-378-5012) so that appropriate arrangements may be made.

The SDLAC advises the State Library and the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Advisory Council on the Statewide Database Licensing Program and its membership is representative of school, public, tribal and academic libraries. The current member list is available at: http://oregon.gov/OSL/LD/technology/sdlp/index.shtml

Questions or concerns can be addressed to MaryKay Dahlgreen, 503-378-5012, marykay.dahlgreen@state.or.us .

DRAFT AGENDA
Agenda Review
Review Minutes of November 6, 2009 meeting and approve
Review and discuss Gale response to meeting with Academic Librarians on 1/28/2010
Discuss trial databases and cost estimates
Prepare recommendation for LSTA Advisory Council and OSL Board
Review By-laws
Schedule next meeting

Oregon State Library
250 Winter St. NE
Salem, OR 97301-3950
News Release For Immediate Release
February 18, 2010
Contact: Jim Scheppke, State Librarian, (503) 378-4367

Oregon Public Library Use Surges Last Year
Statistics Collected by the Oregon State Library Show Library Use at All-Time High

Salem—The bad economy has been good for business in Oregon public libraries. In statistics recently compiled by the Oregon State Library for fiscal year 2009, the number of books and other library materials checked out from public libraries was up 7% from the prior year. Average annual growth in check-outs in the five years prior to 2009 was only 2.6%.

Fifty-three out of the 130 public libraries in the state reported double-digit increases in their check-outs. New library facilities drew greater use in Tualatin and Seaside. Their libraries reported increases in check-outs of 40% and 24%, respectively. Other large increases are harder to explain, except for the fact that historically, library use always surges in economic downturns. Check-outs at the Jefferson County Library in Madras were up 39% and check-outs at the Harney County Library in Burns were up 33%.

Check-outs in Oregon public libraries in 2009 totaled 55.8 million, an all-time record. Check-outs have increased every year since 1973, and the number of check-outs in 2009 are more than double the number reported just 16 years ago in 1994.

Other public library statistics also showed strong growth in 2009. Gate count at libraries topped 25 million, an 8% increase. And 1.4 million Oregonians, mostly children, attended programs at a library, a 7% increase.

The State Library data shows that most Oregon libraries had to increase their productivity to deal with the increase in their business. Per capita expenditures in libraries actually declined in 2009 from $47.38 to $46.74.

One area where public libraries did not have to do more with less was in providing Internet access to the public. Thanks to a grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, many Oregon libraries received matching funds for new computers. Overall the number of computers in Oregon libraries increased by 13% to 2,544. The computers were used nearly 5 million times in 2009.

"Oregon public libraries have really stepped up to be "first responders" in this time of need for many Oregonians," commented State Librarian Jim Scheppke. "Their budgets aren't increasing as fast as the demands for their services. We should all thank our local librarians for meeting the challenges this economy is creating for them."

CONTACT:
Jim Scheppke
Oregon State Librarian
(503) 378-4243

February 12, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Oregon State Library Board of Trustees will meet at the State Library on Friday, February 26, 2010. Sue Burkholder of Eugene will chair the meeting.

At their meeting on February 26th the Board will hear a request from Oregon State University Libraries for additional LSTA funding for their 2010 LSTA competitive grant project. The additional funding would make up for a shortfall in funding for the project from the Oregon Heritage Commission. The Board will also hear a preliminary staff proposal about changes to the Oregon Administrative Rules that would allow the Board to begin to collect partial support payments from libraries for the L-net e-reference service. The Board will also consider a recommendation from the Talking Book and Braille Services Advisory Council about submitting a legislative proposal to the Governor to fund the NEWSLINE news service with funding from the Oregon Public Utility Commission.

An Open Forum is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Anyone may address the Board on any topic at the Open Forum.

Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested prior to 48 hours before the meeting; notice prior to 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in alternate formats prior to 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to April Baker at 503/378-2464.

The state's juvenile corrections agency plans to begin dramatically increasing the number of staff members formally certified to deliver alcohol and drug counseling to youth offenders when it begins training counselors this month.

Twenty-five Oregon Youth Authority staff members from the North Coast and MacLaren youth correctional facilities in Warrenton and Woodburn, respectively, will begin formal training at the Warrenton facility March 10.

Although the agency has a number of staff members with training in alcohol and drug counseling, only two staff members at these facilities are certified by the Addiction Counselor Certification Board of Oregon.

"Alcohol and drug issues are a challenge for two-thirds of the youth offenders we serve," said Colette S. Peters, OYA director. "This will not only strengthen our correctional and behavioral services for youth but also provide a career opportunity for staff members who want to be certified as alcohol and drug counselors."

The training will assist the Oregon Youth Authority in fulfilling its mission of protecting public safety and reducing crime by holding youth offenders accountable and providing opportunities for reformation in safe environments.

The training will be delivered by Gary O. George, Ph.D., of Redmond, a retired clinical psychologist and regional drug abuse treatment coordinator who holds the highest certification available in alcohol and drug counseling. An Oregon native who worked with the Federal Bureau of Prisons for more than two decades, George has 30 years' experience in alcohol and drug training, supervision and administration, was an associate warden at two federal prisons and has delivered training previously at three OYA facilities.

Staff members enrolled in the training will be in class one day a month for five months, read three textbooks and have phone and e-mail access to George at other times.

Besides receiving the training, North Coast and MacLaren staff members will be required to do 1,000 hours of clinically supervised counseling before sitting for the exam to be certified as an alcohol and drug counselor, or CADC I.

The training is being offered in response to state legislation requiring public agencies to use certified counselors. Peters said she would like to have 50 staff members certified, although training at other OYA facilities will be contingent on availability of budget resources.

OYA has custody of approximately 900 youth offenders ages 12-24 in correctional and transitional facilities in Albany, Burns, Florence, Grants Pass, La Grande, Salem, Tillamook, Warrenton and Woodburn, and supervises approximately 1,100 youth on parole and probation in communities throughout Oregon.

# # #

Construction that will relieve crowding and improve educational opportunities at the Oregon Youth Authority's two Tillamook facilities is expected to be completed in July.

2KG Contractors Inc. of Milwaukie won the contract to relocate the existing Trask River High School, currently in separate locations, into an unfinished building on the campus. The project will double the building's square footage by constructing six classrooms, restrooms, administrative offices, and central control and camera monitoring.

Existing Tillamook facilities are crowded. Some staff members' offices are in an old control room or hallway, long-term youth property is stored in the main entrance corridor, and clinic and psychiatric services have insufficient space.

The $761,530 project, financed by Go Oregon! stimulus funds, will help OYA fulfill its mission of protecting the public and reducing crime by holding youth offenders accountable and providing opportunities for reformation in safe environments. Education is key to successful transition back to the community. By using the unfinished building, officials said, the agency saved approximately $500,000 in construction costs.

The school serves youth housed in the Tillamook Youth Correctional Facility and the adjacent Camp Tillamook transitional facility, which serve 50 and 25 male offenders, respectively. The accredited high school provides 5.5 hours of instruction 220 days a year leading to high school credits, high school diplomas or, in the case of high school graduates, skills improvement to prepare for higher education or employment.

The project's architect was DLR Group Architecture and Planning Inc. in Portland.

The Tillamook school project is the second-largest among OYA's $9.2 million in state stimulus-funded projects. The largest is construction of a 7,200-square-foot young women's transitional home in Albany to replace Corvallis House, which closed last year.

OYA has custody of approximately 900 youth offenders ages 12-24 in correctional and transitional facilities in Albany, Burns, Florence, Grants Pass, La Grande, Salem, Tillamook, Warrenton and Woodburn. The agency also supervises approximately 1,100 youth on parole and probation in communities throughout Oregon.

# # #

A juvenile corrections administrator with 33 years' experience was named today as superintendent of the 295-bed MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn, largest of the agency's 10 facilities and transitional camps.

Isidro "Sid" Thompson, superintendent of the 50-bed RiverBend facility in La Grande for the past two years, will start the new job Feb. 22. MacLaren serves male sex offenders, violent offenders, those with substance abuse issues, older male youth and the majority of the male Oregon Department of Corrections population committed to OYA facilities.

"Sid Thompson's three decades of diverse responsibilities in juvenile corrections have made him an effective and respected leader," said Colette S. Peters, OYA director. "MacLaren youth and staff will benefit from the wealth of experience, knowledge and compassion he brings to the job."

MacLaren, serving nearly a third of OYA youth in close-custody facilities, plays a major role in the agency's mission to protect the public and reduce crime by holding youth offenders accountable and providing opportunities for reformation in safe environments.

Thompson joined the Oregon Youth Authority in February 2008 after a 31-year career with the Arkansas Division of Youth Services, where he was assistant director of residential operations. He also managed juvenile correctional facilities and residential treatment facilities in Arkansas and consulted with five states.

OYA will begin a recruitment for a permanent superintendent at RiverBend in approximately three months. Brian Blisard, treatment manager at RiverBend, will serve as interim superintendent of that facility.

At MacLaren, Thompson succeeds Mike Riggan, who resigned to accept a position with the Washington County Juvenile Department as juvenile division manager in charge of the Harkins House juvenile shelter in Hillsboro.

"Washington County has recruited a professional who has proved himself as an organizational leader who has the support of his staff and whose work benefits youth in OYA's care and custody," Peters said.

OYA has custody of approximately 900 youth offenders ages 12 to 24 in correctional and transitional facilities in Albany, Burns, Florence, Grants Pass, La Grande, Salem, Tillamook, Warrenton and Woodburn. The agency also supervises approximately 1,100 youth on parole and probation in communities throughout Oregon.

# # #

State workers take unpaid day-off to save taxpayers about $2 million

Salem — Because of budget reductions for state agencies, most state offices will close on Friday, March 19, and 26,500 state employees will take mandatory unpaid furloughs on that day, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) announced Monday.

The closure on March 19 is the third of 10 closure dates the state has scheduled over the current two-year budget period. Each day of closure will save an estimated $2 million in personnel costs, said DAS Director Scott Harra. While the closures affect both management and non-management employees, many state workers will take up to four additional days of unpaid furlough on a floating basis over the remainder of the biennium.

"We apologize for any inconvenience these closures might cause to the public, and we look forward to restoration of a full work schedule for all state agencies when the economy returns to its normal strength," said DAS Director Scott Harra.

State agencies will do everything possible to minimize any hardship the closures might cause, Harra added. Customers can still do business with DMV and some other state agencies online, even though the offices are closed. Harra encouraged the public to check agencies' Web sites to find out whether online transactions are possible on the closure day.

Some workers will stay on the job
Harra emphasized that certain state employees who provide essential services in public safety will remain on the job as usual—State Police officers, corrections officers and certain state hospital workers, for example.

Unions, state negotiated which days to close
Last summer, the state's management team and the unions that represent state workers negotiated an agreement that specifies which days to designate as closure days. The negotiators took into account the need to minimize public inconvenience while keeping critical operations open and functioning.

State Web sites offer information on closures
The Oregon Department of Administrative Services has published information about Friday's closure and furloughs on the state's Web site (www.Oregon.gov), along with a schedule of the remaining closure days. Members of the public can also find out which state offices will remain open on the closure days. Harra urged the public to check individual agencies' Web sites for additional information.

The state has scheduled the following dates as closure days with mandatory unpaid furloughs (all are Fridays):

October 16, 2009
November 27, 2009
March 19, 2010
April 16, 2010
June 18, 2010
August 20, 2010
September 17, 2010
November 26, 2010
March 18, 2011
May 20, 2011


-30-

For Immediate Release

Radio announcements designed to reach broad audience of Oregonians

Salem — In an effort to reach more Oregonians with the news about state government's next unpaid furlough day — Friday, March 19 — media outlets can now access public service announcements on the state Web site, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) announced Monday.

"The public service announcements should help the state notify Oregonians about the furloughs and closures, especially those people who rely on radio for their news," said Lonn Hoklin, DAS Public Affairs manager. "Radio stations can download mp3 files in English or Spanish, or print a script for announcers and immediately begin to use the spots."

The announcements serve as a reminder that most state offices will close on 10 dates during the current two-year budget period. Each day of closure will save the state approximately $2 million in personnel costs.

Visit the following Web site to listen to or download the mp3 files:
www.oregon.gov/furlough_closures.shtml.


-30-

For Immediate Release
March 1, 2010

Charitable Fund Drive raises more than $1 million in its latest campaign

Salem—Despite layoffs, budget cuts and furlough days, the state employees' Charitable Fund Drive (CFD) has raised $1 million for 800-plus charities in its latest campaign, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services announced Wednesday.

Nearly 3,000 state and University System employees contributed to the CFD in 2009, said Fred Lord, chair of the CFD committee. The average gift per employee was $342.00.

"This makes me so proud to be a state employee," Lord said. "This campaign demonstrates that even when we all have less of our own money to give, state employees keep serving Oregonians."

This latest campaign was the first Charitable Fund Drive to allow Oregon's state employees to donate online. This new option reduces the cost for the charities who benefit of the campaign, and saves tens of thousands of sheets of paper.

The CFD's annual campaign gives employees of state agencies and the Oregon University System the opportunity to make charitable contributions at work, and to control where their contributions go. Since 1989, the campaign has raised more than $20.7 million for Oregon nonprofit groups that work on children's issues, human services, the environment, health, housing, social justice, the arts and a wide range of other concerns.

The positive impacts on Oregonians are substantial, even for a small monthly donation. Through the CFD, for example, $20 per month provides mentoring and support for a low-income child at risk of dropping out of school; $10 per month supplies diabetes risk tests for 500 people; and just $5 per month saves an animal in a rescue shelter from euthanasia.

Most employees make payroll-deduction pledges in the fall. They then pay gradually from each paycheck over the next calendar year. Some state offices also host fundraising events that benefit CFD charities.

The online CFD system is accessible year-round to anyone who wants to learn about Oregon nonprofit agencies (http://bit.ly/dg1H9N – click on "Charity Lookup Tool" under the "Main Menu").

Background information:

The director of the Department of Administrative Services appoints a Charitable Fund Drive Committee, comprised of seven employees from various state agencies. The committee oversees the activities of the CFD. This committee is responsible for selecting a Campaign Management Organization (CMO) to implement its decisions and manage the day-to-day operations.

The current CMO team includes staff members of the Children's Trust Fund of Oregon and Earth Share of Oregon. No state funds are used to pay for the CMO or other campaign activities. The participating nonprofit organizations pay all associated costs. A complete list of the 27 participating funds and federations and the 800+ nonprofit organizations they represent is available at http://ecfd.oregon.gov/GCFS/docs/09brochure.pdf.

-30-

Salem—The Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) announced today that Doug Hedlund will take over the Oregon Department of Aviation as that agency's acting director.

Hedlund replaces Gregg Dal Ponte, who has returned to his regular post as administrator of ODOT's Motor Carrier Transport Division. Dal Ponte served as acting director of the Department of Aviation since October of last year.

Hedlund is a veteran manager with long experience in state government. He has served nearly four years in his present position as Freight Mobility Operations and OD Permit Manager in the Oregon Department of Transportation, having held several management positions with ODOT since 1991.

"I know Doug Hedlund will carry on the excellent work that Gregg Dal Ponte did as acting director of Aviation," said Scott Harra, DAS director. "Stabilizing operations and restoring sound management have been our main goals. We will now continue our search for a permanent department director—someone with proven management skills and a strong record of leadership. Doug will help lead that effort."

-30-

SALEM, Ore. – March 1, 2010 –The show that nearly 48 million Europeans in 16 countries discovered last spring, "Oregon Uncovered," will now be available for viewing stateside via iTunes® podcast.

The 15 episodes feature the attractions, people, experiences and scenic beauty of Oregon. The show inspires travel with a variety of outdoor adventures, culinary experiences, scenic drives and interviews with Oregonians across the state.

"We were proud to share Oregon's treasures with the European continent when it first aired last March," said Teresa O'Neill, Director of International & Domestic Travel Trade for Travel Oregon. "And now we're thrilled to bring the show, and Oregon, to the rest of the world."

Download weekly "Oregon Uncovered" episodes here: http://itunes.apple.com/podcast/travel-oregon/id308701629. Subscribers will also receive episodes of "Grant's Getaways," a weekly series of travel segments featuring Oregon destinations with themes such as fishing, urban hiking, surfing, geocaching, whale watching, kayaking and whitewater rafting.

The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, works to enhance Oregonians' quality of life by strengthening economic impacts of the state's $8.4 billion tourism industry. Visit www.TravelOregon.com for details.

# # #

SALEM, Ore. – Feb. 18, 2010 – Governor Ted Kulongoski has appointed Alana Audette to the Oregon Tourism Commission (dba Travel Oregon), the Governor's office announced today. Audette joins newest member Karen Utz, appointed in July.

"The tourism industry is vital to Oregon's economy, and I'm confident these two new members of the Commission will serve our state well," the Governor said. "I know they will carry forward the intensive state effort to help tourism grow and thrive, which is good for all sectors of Oregon's economy. When we promote Oregon, we do more than invite people to visit our many beautiful tourist attractions -- we bring them face to face with Oregon's people, our towns and cities, and our vibrant business scene."

Audette and Utz fill two vacancies on the Commission. Made up of nine members, the Commission provides expertise and sets policy direction for Travel Oregon staff.

"We are excited about the addition of Alana and Karen to the Oregon Tourism Commission," said Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon. "The Governor has selected two more talented, experienced people who will help advance the tourism industry in our state. Their unique backgrounds and insight will help Travel Oregon position the state as a must-see vacation destination and establish Oregon's brand in strategic geographic regions."

Audette grew up in the family hospitality businesses in Aspen, Colo. and Bend, Ore. She took a nine-year detour from her tourism roots to head east for a career in legislative policy on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Audette has served as President and CEO of the Central Oregon Visitors Association (COVA) since 1993. Under her leadership, COVA has more than quadrupled its annual marketing budget and membership base.

Utz is the owner and operator of The Black Walnut Inn in Dundee. In addition to her appointment to the Oregon Tourism Commission, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Oregon Lodging Association and Yamhill Valley Visitors Association. She is an active member of the Bed & Breakfasts of Yamhill County group.

The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, works to enhance Oregonians' quality of life by strengthening economic impacts of the state's $8.4 billion tourism industry. Visit www.TravelOregon.com for details.
# # #

Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon has been named to the 2010 Associations Advance America Honor Roll, a national awards competition sponsored by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) & The Center for Association Leadership, Washington, D.C.

PLSO received the award for its Trig-Star program. The Trig-Star Program Contest is an annual high school mathematics competition sponsored by the Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon through the National Society of Professional Surveyors based on the practical application of Trigonometry. The program recognizes the best students from high schools throughout the nation.

The purpose of the Trig-Star Program:
To promote the study of trigonometry in high school and to promote excellence in the mastery
of trigonometry by honoring the individual student who has demonstrated superior skill among classmates at the High School level.
To acquaint the high school trigonometry students with the use and practical application of trigonometry in the surveying profession through in class presentations along with "hands on" field demonstrations.
To build an awareness of surveying as a profession among the mathematically-skilled high school students, career guidance counselors and high school math teachers.

Now in its 20th year, the prestigious Associations Advance America (AAA) Awards program recognizes associations that propel America forward – with innovative projects in education, skills training, standards setting, business and social innovation, knowledge creation, citizenship, and community service. Although association activities have a powerful impact on everyday life, they often go unnoticed by the general public.
"PLSO's program truly embodies the spirit of the Associations Advance America campaign. It is an honor and an inspiration to showcase this activity as an example of the many contributions associations are making to advance American society," remarked Associations advance America Committee Chair Ping Wei, director of educational opportunities for the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon (PLSO) is open to all licensed surveyors and those who are working towards professional licensing and to students pursuing an education in the field.

The mission of the Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon, a not-for-profit statewide professional organization, is to unite all licensed Land Surveyors in the State of Oregon: To promote legislation and educational programs to improve the professional status of Oregon Land Surveyors; and to advance the profession of Land Surveying by promoting high standards of practice and ethical conduct, holding paramount the interests of the public.

The Salem-based internet marketing company Opt-E-Web announced the launch of a new division that will enable customers to protect their proprietary information. Operating under the name Opt-E-Web Online Backup Solutions, the new division will help customers to back up data such as client records, financial statements and tax records in as many as six international locations and protects users from data loss in the event of a computer failure.

"Seventy percent of small firms that experience a major data loss go out of business within a year," said Brad Brunhaver, Opt-E-Web co-founder. "Backing up your data is a big deal, but only one in four computer users do it on a regular basis."
The service was made possible through a partnership with SOS. Opt-E-Web brings users an award-winning online backup system. It is the PC Magazine's Editors' Choice online backup tool, PC Pro Magazine online backup Labs Winner, PC User Top Buy, the Wall Street Journal's preferred online backup solution, and Roam Magazine's favorite pick. Opt-E-Web Online Backup is the most awarded, and best performing backup system and is available for commercial and home users. Customers can store back-up data for an unlimited number of servers and computers in multiple locations around the world and retrieve it via the internet as well as fileshare that data with anyone. The installation occurs remotely, so there is not an interruption of your computer systems. If you schedule an install by March 31, 2010, Opt-E-Web will waive the installation fee, a $40 value.
The technology is designed to meet all secure data storage requirements including HIPPA, SAS 70 Type II Certification and Sox Compliant meeting requirements for Public Company Accounting Reform and Investor Protection Act. It also ensures the security and integrity of corporate data with a Datacenter protection and redundancy rating of Tier 3 & 4 and is EU Data Transmission Compliant with a Safe Harbor Certification.
"Opt-E-Web Online Backup Solutions gives you the flexibility and power to create a backup that meets your needs. Backup your outlook daily up to 6 global datacenters. Backup your entire computer to a USB drive nightly or backup My Documents to your iPod each hour and make it a setup and forget kind of solution" Said Scott Mills, Opt-E-Web co-founder.
"This solution can be used by anyone. By medical offices to accountants to the person at home" said Devin Campbell, Sales Director of Opt-E-Web.
Scott Mills and Brad Brunhaver co-founded Opt-E-Web in November 2008 to help their clients improve their marketing strategies and reach sales goals. Together they have over 30 years of experience in IT and marketing. They recently added Devin Campbell as sales director to their team to help launch the new back up service.
Opt-E-Web is an internet marketing firm in Salem that specializes in search engine optimalization and pay-per-click ad campaign management. The new back-up services they offer enable customers to rest easy, knowing they have access to personalized customer support and 24/7 data protection in multiple locations.

At the 51st Anniversary meeting of the Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon, (PLSO), Tim Fassbender of Eugene, Oregon was elected as State Chair. The organization held its meeting with over 450 public and private sector surveyors, at the end of January in Salem.

At the same meeting, John Mathews of Springfield, was elected to succeed Fassbender upon the completion of his term. Fassbender has been a member of PLSO since his graduation from the Oregon Institute of Technology in 1977. His accomplishments include four terms as Midwest Chapter President as well as Chair of seven PLSO state conferences. In addition Fassbender has been Chair of the Welfare and Ethics; Finance; Legislation and Awards committees . Over the years Fassbender has worked for Orville Caswell Surveying, The Lane County Surveyors Office and Ford-Ness-Fassbender Inc. and currently for the City of Eugene.

Also elected at the meeting were PLSO Chapter Presidents
Central: Scott Freshwaters, Sunriver
Mid-West: Renee Clough, Springfield
Pioneer: Joe Ferguson, Portland
Rogue River: Craig Claassen, Grants Pass
South Central: Mason Marker, Klamath Falls
Southwest: Walter White, North Bend
Umpqua: Randy Smith, Roseburg
Willamette: Jack Burrell, Albany
Blue Mt.: Robert Butler, La Grande

The organization is open to all licensed surveyors and those who are working towards professional licensing and to students pursuing an education in the field. For more information visit www.PLSO.org or call 503-585-4551.

The mission of the Professional Land Surveyors of Oregon, a not-for-profit statewide professional organization, is to unite all licensed Land Surveyors in the State of Oregon: To promote legislation and educational programs; to improve the professional status of Oregon Land Surveyors; and to advance the profession of Land Surveying by promoting high standards of practice and ethical conduct, holding paramount the interests of the public. www.PLSO.org.


Attached Media Files: 2010-02/1853/Tim_Fassbender_2010.JPG

Governor Ted Kulongoski has proclaimed March as Red Cross Month in Oregon, joining President Barack Obama in a tradition upheld by every U.S. President dating back to Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1943. See Oregon's 2010 Red Cross Month proclamation at www.oregonredcross.org/proclamation.

"The American Red Cross is there when people need us most. During March, we thank those whose support enables us to continue our work," said Maree Wacker, Regional Executive for the American Red Cross in Oregon. "Their generosity helps us continue to serve those who need us every day – whether they are down the street, across the country or around the world."

The American Red Cross is part of the world's largest humanitarian network – 97 million volunteers helping in 186 countries. In this country, the Red Cross helps change lives seven days a week, 24 hours a day.

Last year in Oregon:

* 600 families relied on the Oregon Red Cross for immediate help after a disaster.
* 2,200 military families received assistance with emergency communications from the Oregon Red Cross.
* 6,500 Oregonians give their time to make their communities safer by volunteering for the American Red Cross.
* 74,000 Oregonians gave life-saving blood through the American Red Cross.
* 122,000 Oregonians learned life-saving skills through the American Red Cross.

The help of the American Red Cross extends around the world to those in need. In just a little over a month since the earthquake devastated Haiti, the Red Cross has helped more than one million people in the region. Relief efforts include providing clean water and sanitation, food and relief supplies, and health care. It will take many years for the people of Haiti to recover and the American Red Cross will work in close coordination with other organizations to support longer-term assistance projects.

March is a great time for people to get involved with the American Red Cross – to give blood, take training in CPR and first aid, volunteer or give a financial gift to help when the next disaster strikes. Contact the Oregon Trail Chapter at 503-284-1234 or visit www.oregonredcross.org to find out how you can get involved.

###

In Oregon, the American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disaster an average of 10 times a week; supplies more than 90 percent of Oregon 's blood; teaches thousands of Oregonians lifesaving skills; offers transportation to seniors and the disabled; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.oregonredcross.org or join our award-winning blog at www.oregonredcross.org/blog.

The American Red Cross invites you to a teleconference briefing on Haiti.

Friday, February 12
10 a.m. – 11 a.m. PT (12-1pm ET)
Call 1-800-288-8976

Speakers

David Meltzer, Senior Vice President of International Services will provide an overall update on the Red Cross response in Haiti. Meltzer just returned from leading a global Red Cross planning summit in Montreal to develop and coordinate a comprehensive approach in responding to Haiti's immediate and long-term needs.

Chris Darlington, a seasoned disaster relief specialist in Port-au-Prince, will talk about the relief work happening now and the challenges ahead.

Moderated by Andrea Koppel, Director of International Communications.


Media Resources

Photos: http://media.redcross.org (username: current - password: redcross)
Video: http://www.redcross.org/video
Articles & Information: www.redcross.org/haiti

Note: The American Red Cross will be releasing a one-month progress report on Friday.

The Klamath County Chapter of the American Red Cross is honoring it's
community partners in March, saying they helped the local Red Cross
attain their blood donation goals over the last 3 years. Among the
partners being honored are New Northwest Broadcasters and local radio
talent, Kevin and Melody - the KLAD Wake-up Crew. Kathi Eskildson,
Territory Representative in Klamath Falls for the Red Cross, says "This
is a record for the Red Cross, to have hit our goals for the last 36
months, and we've done it in large part due to the partners that help us
get the word out about where our blood drives are held and how the
community can help." The other partners to be honored have not yet been
announced. The Red Cross will honor their partners at an awards
ceremony in Sunriver March 12th.

Latest IMAX® Space Adventure Narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio

PORTLAND, Ore. (Mar. 2, 2010) For nearly 20 years, the Hubble Space Telescope has dazzled us with unprecedented views of the cosmos—from the splendor of our celestial neighborhood to galaxies billions of light years away. Now through the power of the new IMAX film Hubble, moviegoers at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry's (OMSI) OMNIMAX Dome Theater will blast off alongside the Atlantis STS-125 crew on an awe- inspiring journey into space to perform important repairs and upgrades on the Hubble Space Telescope and witness up close some of the most challenging spacewalks ever performed.

"It's been said that The IMAX Experience® is the next best thing to being in space, and with IMAX, the audience really is there," said producer/director Toni Myers. "Fifteen years ago we made a film about space exploration that included Hubble, when it started sending back the first images. Today, we have Hubble's entire phenomenal legacy of data to explore. With IMAX, we can transport people to galaxies that are 13 billion light years away—back to the edge of time. Real star travel is here at last."

Hubble will offer an inspiring and unique look into the Hubble Space Telescope's legacy and highlight its profound impact on the way we view the Universe and ourselves. Recounting the amazing journey of the most important scientific instrument since Galileo's original telescope, viewers will experience firsthand Hubble's awe-inspiring imagery, from the heart of the Orion Nebula and our Milky Way to the edge of the observable Universe.

Hubble, narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio, opens at OMSI's OMNIMAX Dome Theater March 19. For information on tickets and show times, please call 503.797.4640 or visit www.omsi.edu/visit/omnimax/. Hubble comes to OMSI through the generous support of presenting sponsor The Pepsi Bottling Group.

ABOUT THE OMSI OMNIMAX DOME THEATER
OMSI's OMNIMAX Dome Theater features the largest IMAX screen in the Portland metropolitan area. With a five-story, 6,532 sq. ft. domed screen and a 330-seat, 30-degree seating platform, viewers are fully immersed into the midst of an unforgettable cinematic experience. The theater's IMAX® projection system uses the largest film frame in the motion picture industry.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore. (Mar. 1, 2010) The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) has received a $421,549 grant from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for several projects designed to help further the museum's energy and environment initiatives. Included is funding for program development utilizing NASA data for OMSI's Science On a Sphere exhibit, and the purchase of two Magic Planets, a type of portable Science On a Sphere. (Science On a Sphere is a six-foot suspended sphere that uses computers and video projectors to display animated images of planets, the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, and more.)

"We are thankful to NASA for their generous support," said Dr. Ray Vandiver, OMSI Vice President, Center for Learning Experiences. "OMSI has made it an institutional priority to create educational exhibits and programming that will help people better understand the Earth as a dynamic system that we shape through our choices. NASA's grant will provide us with valuable tools to share this important and unique data with our visitors."

Grant funds will also be used to produce traveling versions of the OMSI-created exhibit about satellites, A View from Space. The traveling versions will allow educators to take the exhibit on the road for school presentations. A full-sized version of A View from Space will also be produced as a permanent installation in OMSI's Earth Science Hall. Additional NASA resources will help fund teacher professional development.

OMSI has embarked on long-range master planning for the coming decade and beyond which identifies focus areas in which it is positioned to address community needs. Energy and environment was selected as OMSI's strategic priority to further support the region's focus on sustainability, the community's interest in energy options and technologies, and the importance of science to the understanding of complex systems like climate change. The central venue for presenting the energy and environment initiatives is OMSI's Earth Hall, the future home of A View from Space and where Science On a Sphere currently resides.

About OMSI
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation's leading science museums, a world-class tourist attraction, and an award-winning educational resource for the kid in each of us. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit www.omsi.edu.


###

Lake Oswego, Ore.--- March 4, 2010 --- In order to improve quality of health care for people who move from one care setting to another, a group of quality leaders from hospitals, long term care (nursing homes, assisted living) and home health came together with a common goal-to reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers and improve communication among providers. Oregon joins a handful of states in taking this innovative approach to improving clinical outcomes across the full spectrum of regulated health care providers. The collaborative resulted in a new clinical toolkit that is now available to all health care providers in Oregon.

According to Jim Dameron, Administrator of the Oregon Patient Safety Commission, "These types of collaborations are what we need to move Oregon forward in patient safety, and what Oregonians deserve." The toolkit gives health care providers a set of resources, including:

- Evidence-based best practices for preventing, assessing and treating pressure ulcers
- Communication protocols for providers
- Guidance for implementing these practices in each individual setting and
- Strategies to facilitate a community wide transitional care network

A pressure ulcer, also known as a bedsore, is a painful condition caused by an area of the skin breaking down when an individual stays in one position too long without shifting their weight. It can happen to someone in a wheelchair or a patient who is bedridden, even for a short while (after a surgery, for example). According to Centers for Medicare and Medicare Services (CMS), pressure ulcers affect more than 1 million patients annually across the nation in both hospitals and nursing homes. The costs associated with caring for pressure ulcers exceed $1.3 billion. Although preventable and treatable, pressure ulcers are associated with increased mortality, especially in the elderly.

According to Stacy Moritz, RN, MBA, Acumentra Health's Director of Medicare Quality Services, "pressure ulcers are not just a concern for one health care setting, but an issue for all health care providers. The intent of the Transitional Care & Pressure Ulcers project was to address pressure ulcer prevention across the entire continuum of care by bringing all of these players together to help facilitate communication and problem solving at many levels."

Said Diane Waldo, Director of Quality and Clinical Services for the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems, "This toolkit is another welcome addition for Oregon's 58 acute-care hospitals, which experience firsthand the complexities associated with caring for patients with pressure ulcers."

The clinical toolkit and support materials were pilot-tested in multiple care settings in Albany, Astoria, Eugene, and The Dalles to confirm applicability and usefulness. "The information from the Nursing Home care plan is very helpful to our nurses," said Nancy Bond, RN, BSHCA, Nurse Manager and Infection Control Preventionist, Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital. "Having this information enables us to continue the individualized plan of care during the hospitalization. Working with the other community health care providers has been a wonderful experience." The pilot tests proved the value of this community-based approach to improve clinical and transitional care. "We learned that even though there are different types of care facilities, everyone has the same goal of good quality care," said Sally Horn, Assistant Director of Nursing, Oregon Veterans' Home.

The complete toolkit, available for download at www.acumentra.org/PU, includes the core clinical materials, plus information to help facilities and communities organize similar efforts.

# # #

Collaborative Partners

The Pressure Ulcer Collaborative was a joint effort among seven statewide organizations representing public and private interests: Acumentra Health, Oregon Alliance of Senior and Health Services, Oregon Association for Home Care, Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems, Oregon Health Care Association, Oregon Patient Safety Commission, and Seniors and People with Disabilities (Oregon Department of Human Services).


Attached Media Files: 2010-03/1635/acumentra-logo.gif

Lake Oswego, Ore. (Feb. 25, 2010) – The Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (OAHHS) is pleased to welcome Kelly Rinehart and Kennedy Smith as its newest staff members.

Rinehart serves as a clinical quality project manager. Her duties include managing several clinical quality projects and initiatives, and supporting the work of Diane Waldo, director of quality and clinical services.

Rinehart earned a degree in nursing from Regents College in Albany, New York, and a degree in biology and zoology from Humboldt State University in Arcata, Calif. She is a certified operating room nurse, a registered nurse first assistant, a certified professional in health care risk management and a legal nurse consultant. Prior to forming her own company, Medical Risk Consulting, LLC, in Newberg, she worked for a medical malpractice insurance company as a risk management intervention specialist.

Smith serves as OAHHS's communications and member services coordinator, assisting with organizing events, developing communications, training and information resources for members, producing education and conference materials, and corresponding with various OAHHS committees, stakeholders and constituent groups.

She earned a degree in English literature and linguistics from California State University Chico in Chico, Calif. Before joining OAHHS, she was a reporter for Oregon Health News, a health-policy publication based in Portland. She is the former manager of membership and public outreach for the Multnomah Bar Association. She was also a reporter for Portland's Daily Journal of Commerce and associate editor of Quality Digest magazine in Chico.

"Kelly immediately impressed us with her expertise in health care quality and risk management, and will be an enormous asset to our team," said Andy Davidson, OAHHS president and CEO. "Likewise, Kennedy has the right blend of journalism, communications, member relations and health care knowledge to extend our organization's reach. They will both be integral to OAHHS's goal of supporting and promoting the needs of Oregon's 58 community hospitals and health systems."

About the OAHHS
Founded in 1934, the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (OAHHS) is a statewide, nonprofit trade association that works closely with local and national government leaders, business and citizen coalitions, and other professional health care organizations to enhance and promote community health and to continue improving Oregon's innovative health care industry.

In addition to 58 acute care hospitals, OAHHS membership includes 10 health systems and related health plans, 16 affiliated allied organizations and 32 associate members representing health care consulting and other service companies.

New tool promises to save lives; Rapid adoption in state is supported by Oregon IHI Network, Columbia River Region Association of periOperative Registered Nurses

Portland, OR (February 23, 2010). Risk of surgical complications in Oregon hospitals is being cut significantly, perhaps by as much as 30 percent overall. This improvement comes because Oregon hospitals are working with a collaborative network of state agencies, health plans, and other health care organizations to adopt a strategy for surgery that is innovative, inexpensive, and effective. In the year since the state network made its commitment, 42 of Oregon's 58 acute-care hospitals that do surgery have begun implementing the World Health Organization Surgical Safety Checklist.

The Surgical Safety Checklist is a simple concept that hospitals worldwide have used to reduce complications from surgery, says Leslie Ray, PhD, RN, hospital field coordinator for the Oregon Patient Safety Commission. At certain points during a surgery, team members verify aloud that they are performing the right procedure on the right part of the right patient. Team members also confirm that the team is aware of difficult situations that may come up and that they agree on key issues after the surgery.

However, it really goes deeper than checking off items on a list, Ray says.
"It's a process of getting used to a different way of communicating," she says.
The Checklist process is similar to the airline industry's Cockpit (or Crew) Resource Management (CRM). Both represent changes in team communication and collaboration.
In the airline industry, studies of fatal accidents showed that flight crews were unwilling to question the authority of the pilot, sometimes with tragic results. The 1978 crash of United Airlines Flight 173 in east Portland is often cited in these studies. The CRM protocol made it easier for every flight crewmember to express concerns without fear.
While all Oregon hospitals use checklists for surgery, these checklists are quite detailed and usually are discipline specific. In contrast, the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist emphasizes a smaller number of highly critical items that the surgical team as a whole needs to consider and provides a way to share that information.

The speed with which this innovation is spreading in Oregon is a result of a collaborative effort by the local chapter of the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) and the Oregon IHI Network of seven different organizations to support hospitals' adoption of the checklist.

Strong support for checklist adoption helps hospitals and surgical teams rearrange their usual process, which is not a trivial task. They have developed effective and efficient routines and it takes a while to develop effective and efficient routines using a different process.

Oregon hospitals are already reporting how the Surgical Safety Checklist has made a difference:

- One surgical team realized that the correct blood was not available if needed. They were able to get it before the surgery.
- Another team discovered that the patient was allergic to iodine. They replaced the iodine drape over the patient, preventing a potentially serious allergic reaction.
- A surgeon learned that his patient had a recent knee surgery, so he ordered an antibiotic before a routine procedure that usually does not require one.
Atul Gawande, the Harvard surgeon who directed the Surgical Safety Checklist project for WHO, noted recently that by the end of 2009, 10 percent of American hospitals had adopted the checklist. Clearly, Oregon, with 75% of hospitals already adopting the WHO checklist, is among the leaders on this issue. The Oregon IHI Network is continuing to work with hospitals and expects all hospitals to be using the checklist by this time next year.

For more information, contact Leslie Ray 505.224.9227; leslie.ray@oregonpatientsafety.org.

MORE INFORMATION

About the Oregon IHI Network
The Oregon IHI Network is a statewide hospital safety coalition, formed in 2005 in response to the Institute for Healthcare Improvement's call to action, the 100,000 Lives Campaign. In 2009–2010, the Network's focus is to spread use of the World Health Organization Surgical Safety Checklist. The Network consists of Acumentra Health, CareOregon, Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (OAHHS), Oregon Medical Association (OMA), Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), Oregon Rural Healthcare Quality Network (ORHQN), and the Oregon Patient Safety Commission.

California, Oregon nurseries sue to re-open South Carolina market

Sacramento, California – The California Association of Nurseries and Garden Centers (CANGC) and the Oregon Association of Nurseries (OAN) today filed a suit in U.S. District Court in Columbia, South Carolina, seeking to overturn a new regulation aimed squarely at blocking California and Oregon nursery growers from shipping their plants to that state.

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) maintains strict regulations related to Phytophthora ramorum (sometimes referred to as Sudden Oak Death) to protect forest health, landscapes, and nurseries across the country. Nurseries in Oregon and California have an outstanding record of compliance with these rules.

However last year, the South Carolina Assembly passed legislation that limits California and Oregon growers from shipping to that state unless they comply with additional inspection, documentation and advance notice requirements which overstep the federal rules.

States are prohibited from taking such steps under the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution and the U.S. Plant Protection Act, which gives the federal government the exclusive power to protect plants sold in interstate commerce.

The suit, which names the State of South Carolina and the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, challenges that state's regulation as unconstitutional. "It is disappointing that the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, which runs programs to promote its home-state products for sale in other states as well as at home, chose to follow this path," said Robert Dolezal, CANGC's executive vice president.

California and Oregon are leading states for production of nursery products, shipping ornamental plants, trees, shrubs, bulbs, and other horticultural products to the nation and the world. Nurseries in Oregon and California have had their shipments blocked or plants destroyed as a result of the regulation.

"California nurseries are fully complying with the federal APHIS order," Dolezal continued. "Protecting our customers in other states and shipping clean plants is in the best interest of everyone in our industry."

OAN executive director John Aguirre agreed. "Nurseries take very seriously the threat of plant diseases," he said. "Over 70% of Oregon's nursery sales are destined for buyers outside our state. Oregon growers cannot allow states to violate federal law in an effort to close their markets to our growers."

There is specific precedent for the plaintiffs' action. In 2004, the California Association of Nursery and Garden Centers successfully sued the State of Kentucky under similar circumstances. "Despite that precedent, our polite requests were ignored and we had no other option but to defend our nurseries from being cut off from their customers in South Carolina," Dolezal said.

"We are disappointed that we were forced to take this action, but the impact on our members' businesses left us no choice," said Dolezal.

The two associations seek injunctive relief to invalidate the regulation. They expect a swift ruling from the U.S. District Court in light of the clear-cut law and precedent.

The plaintiffs in the suit are represented by attorneys Jim Lehman and Daniel D'Alberto of Nelson, Mullins, Riley & Scarborough, LLP of Columbia, South Carolina, and Neil Shapiro of the Law Offices of Neil Shapiro in Monterey, California.

For more information about Sudden Oak Death (Phytophthora ramorum), go to http://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant_health/plant_pest_info/pram/index.shtml.

# # #

The California Association of Nurseries and Garden Centers was founded in 1911 as a statewide trade organization for nursery growers. It is headquartered in Sacramento, California. California nurseries and floriculture producers are the second largest agricultural commodity produced in the Golden State, after dairy, making it the largest state for shipments of nursery products in the United States. The Association is the primary advocate for the California nursery community in Sacramento and Washington, D.C.

The Oregon Association of Nurseries, based in Wilsonville, represents more than 1,300 wholesale growers, retailers, landscapers and suppliers. Oregon's ornamental horticulture industry is the state's largest agricultural sector, with annual sales of $820 million. For information visit www.oan.org or call 503-682-5089.