April 26, 2024
Media Contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov
PORTLAND, Ore. — Sejal Hathi, M.D., MBA, director of Oregon Health Authority (OHA), deepened her engagement with Portland's health care community this week, visiting several key organizations including the Miracles Club, Virginia Garcia Wellness Center and Central City Concern.
Her visit is part of a broader, months-long state tour to identify and center the priorities of all Oregon communities in OHA’s strategic planning.
One of Dr. Hathi’s first stops was at the Miracles Club, a Measure 110 grantee that provides peer support and sober housing to Portland’s Black community.
“This is an organization exclusively dedicated to serving a population that has, for too long, gone unserved,” she observed. “They understand the judgment and stigmatization this population faces. And still they carry that, and meet them where they are, by investing in peers with lived experience, by building relationships, and by intentionally fostering community, which we know is foundational to sustained recovery.”
Watch a video of what Dr. Hathi observed during her Portland visit.
Discussions with leaders from local public health, mental health agencies, and Trillium Community Health Plan emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration across health services.
"We need to do a better job integrating health care with public health – across data systems, programs, and funding streams – to more effectively address the most pressing local needs around behavioral health, homelessness and poverty," Dr. Hathi said.
The following day, Dr. Hathi visited the Virginia Garcia Wellness Center, touring its facilities and a custom mobile clinic that delivers medical and dental care to community sites. She also participated in a roundtable discussion with the Oregon Primary Care Association about the challenges faced by federally qualified health centers delivering vital safety-net care amid workforce shortages.
Dr. Hathi's tour concluded at Central City Concern, which provides behavioral and physical health care to nearly 14,000 individuals in the Portland metro area toward a goal of ending homelessness. Dr. Hathi pointed to Central City Concern’s Mobile Health program, which uses custom-made vans to deliver primary care, behavioral health and community health outreach services to the unhoused population, as one of many examples of the “spirit of innovation” that first drew her to Oregon. But there’s more work to do.
“I know we can do more to support one another, to bridge our silos and to work together as county and state, to better serve vulnerable Oregonians, especially those grappling with behavioral health crises,” she said.
Dr. Hathi will spend the next month making the final few visits of her statewide listening tour – meeting with and talking to community leaders, health care providers, Tribal leaders, local public health officials, and non-profit partners about their biggest needs from the state and OHA – to ensure those needs are represented and addressed as she shapes the agency’s next chapter.
Here is a link to B-roll footage, an audio file and still pictures from Dr. Hathi's most recent trip
Don’t miss the first annual Community Wildfire Preparedness Expo on May 4, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Badger Mountain Trailhead Park.
This family-friendly two-hour event includes exhibits, demonstrations, and opportunities to talk with emergency service agencies, land, water, and wildlife organizations, and more. Citizens will learn more about wildfire preparedness, protection, and evacuation. There will be emergency vehicles to explore, public training on performing Hands-Only CPR, and a chance to meet with about fifteen partner organizations.
This event is hosted by Richland Fire and Emergency Services who received a grant from the Department of Natural Resources to educate and prepare neighborhoods living near undeveloped open space. The Community Wildfire Defense Grant includes a wildfire preparedness kiosk for park users with a QR Code that directly links to an online hub that features educational information, notifications, instructions in case of fire, and real-time updates. The grant provides funding every year to target various locations throughout Richland.
Badger Mountain Trailhead Park is located at 1294 White Bluffs Street, off Keene Road in Richland.
The City of Richland and community partners are hosting a one-day Mobile Food Vendor event on May 3, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This event will streamline and simplify the inspection and permitting process for mobile food vendors in our region. Participants can quickly obtain the necessary permits and approvals to operate their business throughout the Tri-Cities.
This free, one-stop solution will have experts from Tri-City area fire departments, Benton Franklin Health District, and the City of Richland's Code Enforcement, Zoning, Building, and Parks and Recreation teams to provide information, inspections, and permits.
To participate, vendors must pre-register for a designated time slot and present a valid Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) permit.
The event will be held at Columbia Point Marina Park, situated at the east end of Columbia Point Drive in Richland.
Secure your spot by registering at https://bit.ly/3QlaKcm and creating an account. Questions? Contact the City of Richland Business Licensing team at 509-942-7713 or by email at usinessLicensing@ci.richland.wa.us">BusinessLicensing@ci.richland.wa.us.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Hotline: 503-813-6018
PORTLAND, OR (April 26, 2024) - PacifiCorp became the first entity in the Western United States to formally commit to a regional coordinated energy market by signing an implementation agreement this week with the California ISO for its Extended Day-Ahead Market (EDAM).
The EDAM is a voluntary day-ahead electricity market designed to deliver significant reliability, economic, and environmental benefits to balancing areas and utilities throughout the West. Tariff changes allowing the EDAM were approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in December 2023, and the market is on track to become operational in 2026.
PacifiCorp, a Portland-based grid operator that serves customers in California, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming, was also the first to publicly announce its intent to join the EDAM in December 2022 to expand on benefits it currently realizes from participation in the ISO’s real-time Western Energy Imbalance Market (WEIM).
“We are excited to formalize our agreement to become a participant in the EDAM,” said Cindy Crane, chief executive officer for PacifiCorp. “A modern, coordinated day-ahead market in the West is vital to optimizing the region’s energy resources so we can continue to provide reliable and affordable power to our 2 million electricity customers across six states.”
“The momentum we are seeing for participation in the EDAM is very encouraging, and PacifiCorp’s formal commitment brings better definition to the vision of a regional day-ahead electricity market,” said Elliot Mainzer, president and CEO of the ISO. “This is a major piece of a truly collaborative effort to support reliability and affordability for electricity customers by leveraging resource diversity and transmission connectivity across the footprint of the Western grid. We now look forward to continue working with additional valued partners in the West to take the next steps in a fully integrated regional market.”
The WEIM is a real-time energy market that was established by PacifiCorp and the ISO in 2014. It has produced more than $5.6 billion in cumulative economic efficiencies and enhanced reliability by leveraging transmission connectivity and resource diversity across a broad geographical footprint covering 22 entities in 11 states. The market now represents 79 percent of the electricity load in the Western Interconnection.
WEIM participation has delivered more than $745 million in savings to PacifiCorp customers.
The WEIM optimizes the energy imbalances throughout the West by transferring energy between participants in 15-minute and 5-minute intervals throughout the day. The proposed EDAM builds on this real-time market by expanding to a high volume of resource commitments made a day in advance, unlocking far greater market efficiencies and value.
The PacifiCorp implementation agreement is a provision of the ISO tariff, and became effective upon signing of both parties on April 25. PacifiCorp is expected to begin participation in the EDAM in spring 2026.
Currently, four entities have informed the ISO of their interest in joining the EDAM: PacifiCorp, Balancing Authority of Northern California, Portland General Electric, Los Angeles Department of Water & Power. A fifth entity, Idaho Power has indicated it is leaning toward the EDAM as its preferred day-ahead market.
For more information, visit the newly launched EDAM webpage on the westerneim.com website.
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MEDFORD, Ore.—A Cave Junction, Oregon man with a lengthy criminal history was sentenced to more than 14 years in federal prison Thursday for illegally possessing methamphetamine and 12 firearms while on state supervision.
William Thomas Gillespie, 39, was sentenced to 173 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.
“This lengthy prison sentence is a just outcome for a man who poses a significant danger to the community. We thank our partners on the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement Team for their dedication and commitment over many months to bringing Mr. Gillespie to justice,” said Nathan J. Lichvarick, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Eugene and Medford Branch Offices.
“With Mr. Gillespie’s lengthy criminal record involving drug distribution, illegal firearms, and flight from supervised release, this significant sentence is well warranted,” said Jonathan Blais, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Seattle Field Division. “ATF will always investigate those who endanger our communities and citizens through their illegal actions.”
According to court documents, on April 6, 2020, Gillespie was arrested in White City, Oregon attempting to deliver approximately 174 grams of methamphetamine. At the time of his arrest, he possessed six baggies of methamphetamine and a digital scale. After Gillespie consented to a search of his residence, investigators located and seized 12 firearms, including an AR-15 and multiple AK-style rifles. Three of the firearms were found to be stolen and one had an obliterated serial number.
On November 5, 2020, a federal grand jury in Medford returned a three-count indictment charging Gillespie with illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, illegally possessing a short-barrel rifle, and possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
On June 23, 2021, Gillespie was released from custody pending trial, and, on August 1, 2022, pleaded guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
On January 2023, Gillespie absconded from his supervised release and a warrant was issued for his arrest. On September 13, 2023, Gillespie was located and arrested in Bandon, Oregon.
This case was investigated by the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement Team (RADE), a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. RADE includes members from Oregon State Police, the Grants Pass Police Department, Josephine County Probation & Parole, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
This case was prosecuted by Judith R. Harper, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
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The Oregon State Marine Board held its quarterly hybrid meeting in Astoria and by Microsoft Teams on April 24, 2024. The Board approved policy options to include in the agency’s recommended budget and statewide boating facility grants.
Agency leadership discussed the 2025-2027 budget and policy development processes. The agency will focus on improving customer service and seeking approval to increase waterway access funding limitation to meet the volume of Waterway Access Grant requests.
A total of seven facility grant applications were received for the agency’s Cycle 2 grant opportunity. The grant applications identified $2.6 million in project needs and applicants requested $1,547,500 from the agency’s funding for the 2023-2025 biennium. The Board conditionally approved the projects where Waterway Access Grant dollars were requested. The agency will be asking the E-Board for more spending limitation of available funds for the conditionally approved projects.
To view the meeting replay and materials, visit the Marine Board’s Public Meetings page.
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For Immediate Release
Contact: Elizabeth Burtner, cell 509-975-6882, urtner@columbiabasin.edu">eburtner@columbiabasin.edu
Columbia Basin College Announces On-Campus Food Service Request for Proposals
Pasco, WA, April 25, 2024 - Columbia Basin College (CBC) announces an open Request for Proposals for Food Services on our Pasco campus.
Are you interested in expanding your food service business? Excited to feed hungry Hawks? This could be a great opportunity for you. CBC is looking to reopen our cafeteria for students, staff, and faculty beginning September 16, 2024. We have a commercial kitchen equipped with all the necessary appliances, the “Hawk’s Nest” is ready for you.
CBC serves over 10,000 students each year and over 400 faculty and staff. We are looking to offer this services to anyone on our Pasco campus, therefore the compensation is based on gross salses with no facility lease/rental fee or utilities.
A full Request for Proposals for Food Service is located on our website at www.Columbiabasin.edu/FoodServiceProposal and is able to be downloaded.
For questions, please email Brian Dexter, AVP for Campus Operations at dexter@columbiabasin.edu">bdexter@columbiabasin.edu.
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Columbia Basin College (CBC) is a public community college serving the Tri-Cities and surrounding communities since 1955. CBC’s mission is to inspire, educate, and support all students in an environment of academic excellence leading to the completion of degrees, certifications, and educational transfers, while fostering meaningful employment, engaged citizenship, and a life-long joy of learning. CBC offers both two and four-year degrees and one-year Certificates. Bachelor of Applied Science degrees are offered in Applied Management, Applied Management in Agriculture or Healthcare Administration, Cyber Security, Dental Hygiene, Information Technology, Health Physics, Teacher Education and Project Management. CBC also offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Richard L. Kerns, died the morning of April 25, 2024. Kerns was incarcerated at Two Rivers Correctional Institution (TRCI) in Umatilla and passed away at the institution. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.
Kerns entered DOC custody on May 3, 2005, from Lane County with an earliest release date of February 14, 2030. Kerns was 86 years old. Next of kin has been notified.
DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of 12,000 individuals who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.
TRCI is a multi-custody prison in Umatilla that houses approximately 1,800 adults in custody. TRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including institution and industrial laundry, mattress manufacturing, and sewing. Other institution work programs include reparation and cleaning of irrigation ditches, maintenance of local baseball fields, and work with local cities and the Hermiston School District. The facility provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, religious services, and behavioral health services. TRCI opened in 2000.
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The DPSST Criminal Justice Moral Fitness Workgroup will meet at 10:00 AM on Monday, May 6, 2024, in the Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Jennifer Howald at 503-551-3258 or .howald@dpsst.oregon.gov">jennifer.howald@dpsst.oregon.gov.
The meeting will be live streamed on the DPSST YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST
Agenda Items
1. Introductions
2. Ineligibility Periods
Carried over from March 30, 2024
3. Recent Legislation and Current Practices
Carried over from January 29, 2024 & March 30, 2024
4. Administrative Closure Criteria
5. Policy Committee Case Review Processes
6. Next Workgroup Meeting: TBD
Administrative Statement
This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law. This meeting is being streamed live on the DPSST YouTube page and will be recorded in the form of minutes. Discussion of issues will only be conducted by workgroup members. Please be mindful of comments and side conversations.
Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada — The Northwest Wildland Fire Protection Agreement (NW Compact) is excited to announce the addition of the State of Hawaii as its newest member.
The NW Compact was created in 1998 and is one of eight forest fire fighting Compacts currently operating across North America. The purpose of the NW Compact is to promote effective prevention, suppression, and control of forest fires in the Northwest wildland region of the United States and Western areas of Canada. It provides an efficient way for member states, provinces, and territories to cope with wildland fires that might be beyond the capabilities of a single member agency, through information sharing, technology and resource distribution.
The NW Compact is operated by member states, provinces and territories, who include:
And now, Hawaii.
Despite being a sub-tropical island chain with lush tropical forests, wildfire in the State of Hawaii is an increasing problem, especially with climate change affecting temperatures, rainfall patterns and extreme events like the powerful winds that led to the catastrophic fires in August 2023. In Hawaii, the proportion of land area burnt on an annual basis is comparable to that in western states.
Hawaii also has a unique biota that evolved without the frequent occurrence of wildfire, which today is often fueled by land use changes and introduction of invasive species. The compact will be another way for Hawaii to address this increasing threat to its environment and communities.
Hawaii’s decision to join the NW compact was due to the need for additional firefighting resources in the state. The compact enables the exchange of resources with other compact members to improve wildfire response capacity in Hawaii. It will allow Hawaii-based wildland firefighters to gain experience by assisting with wildland firefighting efforts on the North American continent while also allowing the state to call on assistance from other members in the compact, thereby benefiting all compact members.
PUC SEEKING PUBLIC COMMENT ON PACIFIC POWER’S
PROPOSED RATE INCREASE
Spanish translation services available
SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) is hosting a virtual event for the public to comment on Pacific Power’s general rate case filing that proposed an increase to electricity rates. This event, held Tuesday, April 30, 2024, from 6-7 p.m. PDT, provides the opportunity to speak directly to the commissioners about the proposed rate increase. Customers may also submit comments in writing or by phone through June 14, 2024.
Pacific Power, which provides electric services to 627,000 Oregon customers, filed a request to increase overall revenues by $322.3 million or approximately 17.9% for all customer types combined. If approved, residential single-family customers using an average of 950 kilowatt hours (kWh) per month would see a bill increase of $30.66. For a residential customer in a multi-family home using an average of 650 kWh per month, bills would increase by $18.51. Actual percentage increases will vary depending on customer type and usage.
Pacific Power’s proposed impacts for the different customer types due to the general rate case filing are noted in the chart below
Customer Types | Residential | Small Commercial
| Large Commercial | Industrial | Irrigation |
Percentage increase for average usage |
21.6% |
22.4% |
10.4% |
14.1% |
22.4% |
Pacific Power identifies several reasons driving the general rate case filing, including investments in transmission infrastructure, wind generation to serve customer load, upgrading the customer service system, increased costs of capital to reflect updated market conditions and risk, and wildfire and vegetation management related costs. The company also proposes an insurance cost adjustment and funding for a proposed catastrophic fire fund.
Pacific Power’s general rate case filing is undergoing a nearly year-long review and will be fully investigated on behalf of electricity customers by the PUC, the Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board, and others. This public comment event is part of that investigation, which will conclude in December when the Commissioners rule on the request. The Commissioners may approve or modify Pacific Power’s request and will only approve rate increases if fully justified by the company. New rates, if approved, are expected to go into effect January 1, 2025.
In a separate filing, which would also go into effect January 1, 2025, Pacific Power proposed an update to its annual power costs, which is currently forecast to be a decrease in rates of about 1%.
Comment via Zoom or phone on April 30
When: Tuesday, April 30, 2024, from 6-7 p.m. PDT
This meeting may go beyond the scheduled end time to allow more people to comment, so please log in before 7 p.m.
Access the Zoom link and phone-in details at: https://bit.ly/44bnMi6
Spanish translation services are available for community convenience at no cost. For those needing translation services, log into the Zoom platform and select English or Spanish on the bottom of the page. Translation services are not available for the meeting phone-in option.
Submit comments directly to the PUC by June 14, 2024
Stay Informed
To stay informed throughout this case, individuals may request to be added to the distribution list to receive publicly available documents. Submit requests by email to ings@puc.oregon.gov">puc.hearings@puc.oregon.gov or by calling 503-378-6678. Please specify Docket No. UE 433 in the request.
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The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, including Portland General Electric, Idaho Power, Pacific Power, Avista, Cascade Natural, and NW Natural. The PUC also regulates landline telephone providers and select water companies. The PUC’s mission is to ensure Oregonians have access to safe, reliable, and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest. We use an inclusive process to evaluate differing viewpoints and visions of the public interest and arrive at balanced, well-reasoned, independent decisions supported by fact and law. For more information about the PUC, visit oregon.gov/puc.
EUGENE, Ore.—A North Bend, Oregon man suspected of abusing multiple children has been indicted in federal court.
Christopher Jay Young, 39, has been charged in a two-count indictment with attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and attempting to coerce and entice a minor.
According to the indictment, on or about January 20, 2024, Young is alleged to have knowingly and intentionally persuaded a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct and record the conduct. Young’s crimes involving one minor victim, as alleged in the indictment, are part of a broader series of similar abusive crimes he is suspected to have committed involving multiple other children during a similar timeframe.
Between April 4 and 8, 2024, the FBI applied for and obtained multiple federal search warrants for Young’s person, home and vehicles. On April 11, 2024, special agents and deputies from the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the Oregon State Police, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lane County Sheriff’s Office executed the warrants and arrested Young.
Five days later, on April 16, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Young. He was arraigned on the indictment Wednesday in federal court in Eugene by a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Young pleaded not guilty and was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.
Attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct is punishable by up to 30 years in federal prison with a 15-year mandatory minimum sentence. Attempted coercion and enticement of a minor is punishable by up to life in prison with a 10-year mandatory minimum sentence.
This case is being investigated by the FBI in conjunction with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, they re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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JOHN DAY, Oregon— Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site welcomes visitors to its Interpretive Center and Museum for the 2024 season starting May 2.
The Kam Wah Chung building and museum is a National Historic Landmark that preserves the home and businesses of two Chinese immigrants, Ing "Doc" Hay and Lung On. For more than 60 years the building was a social, medical and religious center for Oregon's Chinese community.
The Interpretive Center will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Monday with tours of the museum running at the top of every hour, the last one beginning at 4 p.m. The Museum and Interpretive Center will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday through May and possibly into June due to staffing.
The free, 45-minute museum tour begins at the Interpretive Center at 125 NW Canton Street in John Day. Staff added a tour from noon to 1 p.m. this year to provide additional viewing opportunities. Space is limited to 8 people per tour.
For more information or questions about tours and operating hours, please call the park office at 541-575-2800.
Even if you can't visit this heritage site in person, you can learn more about the history through these online resources:
UPDATE - Photo added of Sgt. OJ Johnson with Roman Santos.
The following statement was provided at this evening's news conference in Eugene.
Captain Kyle Kennedy, Oregon State Police
I want to start by sending our heartfelt support to the community in West Richland, Washington, a community dealing with senseless tragedy. My prayer is their community will come together to provide support and strength during this grievous time.
The conclusion of this search has been the culmination of the hard work and dedication of our law enforcement partners in Washington and Oregon, as well as federal contributors. Since the start, our goal has been simple—to bring Roman Santos home safely. We did it. Roman is in the care of Oregon officials.
Last evening, the Oregon State Police issued an AMBER Alert at approximately 11:35 p.m. at the request of the Washington State Patrol. This AMBER alert was in response to the murder of two women in West Richland, Washington, and the kidnapping of a 1-year-old infant - Roman Santos. The suspect in these murders and kidnapping was identified as Elias Huizar. The suspect was reportedly driving a 2009 Toyota Corolla with Washington plates.
Today, at approximately 2:40 p.m., Oregon State Police troopers were observing Interstate 5 for the suspect when he located the vehicle southbound near milepost 221. OSP initiated a traffic stop and the suspect vehicle fled southbound. Two troopers engaged in a pursuit with the suspect vehicle at high speeds heading southbound.
Near milepost 209, there was a minor collision and the suspect vehicle lost control. An exchange of gunfire occurred prior to the vehicle fleeing again southbound. No known injuries occurred as a result of the gunfire.
Near milepost 197, the suspect crashed into a stopped CMV and stopped in the median. As troopers contacted the suspect vehicle, he was deceased of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The infant was located uninjured and removed from the vehicle.
Involved in the exchange of gunfire, was Superintendent Casey Codding and Sergeant Orly Johnson of the Oregon State Police.
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office has been asked to lead the investigation.
We are very proud of the efforts of the troopers involved in this pursuit today. Their dedication and courage are a hallmark of the character of an Oregon State Trooper. Their efforts today were paramount in bringing Roman home safely.
I want to thank our partners:
WASHINGTON: Kennewick PD, Paso PD, Richland PD, Prosser PD, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Patrol, Benton Fire Districts 1 and 4, FBI, US Marshal’s, Fish and Wildlife
OREGON: PPB, OSP, Hillsboro, and Portland FBI.
PURSUIT: OSP, Linn County Sheriff's Office
ON SCENE: Lane County Sheriff's Office, Eugene Police Department, Coburg Police Department
MALHEUR COUNTY, Ore. 24 April 2024 – On Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at 4:25 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy. 20 near milepost 235 in Malheur County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a maroon Chevrolet Trailblazer, operated by Hunter Brucker (22) of Redmond, was traveling eastbound when it entered the westbound lane to pass an eastbound commercial motor vehicle. A westbound Ford Maverick, operated by a 17-year-old male, swerved onto the westbound shoulder to avoid a collision with the Chevrolet. The Chevrolet also swerved onto the westbound shoulder and collided with the Ford Maverick.
The driver of a Ford Maverick (a 17-year-old male) was pronounced deceased at the scene. A juvenile passenger (a 13-year-old female) was transported by helicopter to an area hospital with reportedly serious injuries.
The driver of the Chevrolet (Brucker) sustained minor injuries and was not transported for medical care.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing.
OSP was assisted by the Malheur County Sheriff’s Office, Treasure Valley Paramedics, Vale Fire and Ambulance, Life Flight, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.
LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. 24 April 2024 – On Monday, April 22, 2024, at 5:39 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy. 101 near milepost 143 within the Newport city limits.
The preliminary investigation indicated a red Chevrolet Monte Carlo was driving southbound on Hwy. 101 when it crossed the middle lane into the northbound lane for unknown reasons and collided with a white Honda Odyssey.
The driver of the Chevrolet, Heidi Fay Rock (74) of Waldport, was transported to a local hospital where she later died from injuries sustained during the crash.
The driver of the Honda, Celeste Diana Paulson (38) of Newport, and two juvenile passengers (a 6-year-old and a 4-month-old) were transported to a local hospital with reportedly minor injuries.
The highway was impacted for approximately four hours.
OSP was assisted by the Newport Police Department, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Central Oregon drug trafficker who conspired with others to traffic fentanyl and methamphetamine to Madras and Redmond, Oregon, and surrounding areas, was sentenced to federal prison today.
Israel Sarabia, 30, of Culver, Oregon, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.
According to court documents, as part of a joint drug trafficking investigation by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team (CODE), investigators learned that a Central Oregon drug trafficking organization was using a courier to transport bulk quantities of drugs from either Southern California or Mexico into Oregon. On December 10, 2022, investigators located and stopped the courier in Klamath Falls, Oregon. While searching the courier’s vehicle, investigators located three packages containing approximately 30,000 counterfeit Oxycodone pills that later tested positive for fentanyl.
Further investigation revealed that the courier was traveling to Sarabia’s residence and that he had been tasked by Sarabia with bringing him fentanyl from Southern California or Mexico. On March 15, 2023, investigators located and arrested Sarabia near his residence in Culver. On the same day, investigators located and seized 519 grams of methamphetamine, more than 1,000 fentanyl pills, 41 grams of cocaine, and nine firearms from the residence of a co-conspirator who was working for Sarabia and storing drugs on his behalf.
On March 15, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Sarabia and an accomplice with conspiring with one another to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, and distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine. A third individual was also charged with conspiracy.
On August 21, 2023, Sarabia pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by DEA and CODE. It was prosecuted by Lewis S. Burkhart, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
The CODE team is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. CODE includes members of the Bend, Redmond, Prineville, Madras, Sunriver, and Black Butte Police Departments; the Warm Springs Tribal Police Department; the Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson County Sheriff and District Attorney’s Offices; the Oregon State Police; the Oregon National Guard; DEA; and the FBI.
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EUGENE, Ore.—An Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for his role in a conspiracy to torture, mutilate, and murder monkeys, and then produce and distribute videos of those acts in exchange for money raised by an online animal abuse group.
David Christopher Noble, 48, of Prineville, Oregon, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.
“The victims in this case cannot speak for themselves, but the impact of the grotesque violence brought upon them is unmistakable. At the direction of David Noble and his co-conspirators, the producers of these animal abuse videos not only killed monkeys but did so in a way that extended their pain and suffering as long as possible,” said Nathan J. Lichvarcik, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Eugene and Medford Branch Offices. “Today’s sentence should make it clear to others engaged in this heinous conduct that they will be held responsible for their crimes.”
“David Noble's depraved actions not only inflicted unspeakable agony upon innocent creatures but also tainted the very essence of humanity’s moral fiber,” stated Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “Under Noble's direction, the production and distribution of grotesque animal abuse videos represented a dark descent into the abyss of cruelty and exploitation. Today’s sentencing underscores our unwavering commitment to holding individuals like Noble accountable for their reprehensible crimes against compassion and decency.”
According to court documents, from January 2022 through February 2023, Noble conspired with others in the District of Oregon and elsewhere to send multiple online payments to co-conspirators overseas to fund the production of videos depicting the torture, mutilation and murder of monkeys. In furtherance of the conspiracy, Noble administered an online group wherein members would raise funds to produce, discuss ideas for, and share animal abuse videos.
In Noble’s messages to the group, he expressed his enjoyment of videos depicting the torture and murder of long-tailed macaques, which members of the group, including Noble, referred to as “rats.” In one message to the group sent in June 2022, Noble expressed that the only thing he did not like in abuse videos was when the torturers “kill the rats too quickly,” and he further expressed a desire that they “keep it alive make it suffer make sure it knows to fear you and that you end its existence at any time.” In another message, Noble claimed “the noises they make from pain and abuse are some of my favorite sounds.”
In 2006, Noble, a former United States Air Force officer, was dismissed from the Air Force and ordered to serve six months in military custody following a court martial for fraud and an unprofessional relationship. In early February 2023, following the investigation in this case, investigators executed a search warrant on Noble’s residence and found approximately 50 videos depicting animal abuse, along with several firearms and ammunition.
On May 18, 2023, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Noble with conspiring to engage in animal crushing and creating and distributing animal crush videos, creating animal crush videos, and illegally possessing a firearm as a dishonorably discharged person.
After his home was searched, Noble relocated from Prineville to Henderson, Nevada, and, on June 13, 2023, was arrested in Henderson. The next day, he made his first appearance in federal court in Las Vegas and was ordered detained pending his transfer to Oregon. On July 21, 2023, after arriving in Oregon, Noble was again ordered detained based on the nature of his offenses, including the extreme violence associated, and his possession of firearms.
On January 10, 2024, Noble pleaded guilty to conspiring to engage in animal crushing and creating and distributing animal crush videos.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and prosecuted by William M. McLaren and Adam E. Delph, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.
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An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, James T. Birchard, passed away April 22, 2024. Birchard was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away at a local hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.
Birchard entered DOC custody on September 5, 1989, from Umatilla and Morrow Counties with no parole date. Birchard was 70 years old.
DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of approximately 12,000 men and women who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.
OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem that houses approximately 2,000 adults in custody. OSP is surrounded by a 25-foot-high wall with 10 towers. The facility has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, behavioral health, intermediate care housing, and an infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care. OSP participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including the furniture factory, laundry, metal shop, and contact center. It provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, work-based education, work crews, and pre-release services. OSP was established in 1866 and, until 1959, was Oregon’s only prison.
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April 24, 2024
SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS), in partnership with Neighborhood Partnerships (NP), announce $11.5 million in funding to support the Individual Development Account Initiative statewide.
An Individual Development Account (IDA) is a matched savings account, where the money participants save is multiplied up to five times by the program. As Oregonians face inflation and rising housing costs, IDAs provide a crucial resource for those with lower incomes to address financial needs such as down payment savings, higher-education costs, microenterprise investments, emergency savings, and investment in other wealth-building assets, supported by financial education and literacy.
IDAs are offered by a statewide network of community organizations, housing authorities, schools, and colleges.
“The Oregon Individual Development Account Initiative serves as a powerful example of collaboration between state governments and community-based organizations to build more inclusive, resilient, and equitable communities across the state,” said Andrea Bell, OHCS executive director. “The additional investment underscores the state’s commitment to facilitate solutions that advance social and economic mobility.”
To date, the IDA program has empowered more than 17,000 Oregonians in 35 of the state's 36 counties, distributing $68 million in matching dollars to savers. Through its network of providers, the Initiative makes IDAs accessible to Oregon residents who have been excluded from opportunities to build lasting financial stability, including residents from Black, Native American, Latinx, and Asian communities throughout the state.
“As the longtime administrator of the Oregon IDA Initiative, Neighborhood Partnerships and our network of community-based partners are thrilled to receive an additional $5 million from the Legislature, which will be used by Oregonians with lower incomes to increase the power of their own savings to reach self-determined financial goals, including first-time homeownership, higher education, and entrepreneurship,” said Luke Bonham, IDA program manager.
This funding is being distributed through fiduciary organizations to aid Oregonians in achieving their financial goals through matched savings. The addition of $5 million in General Funds allows a two-phased funding approach in 2024-25 to help support the IDA Initiative’s continued growth and success. The approach aims to increase reach in underrepresented counties, graduate BIPOC savers at rates that promote racial equity in asset building.
For more information about the IDA Initiative and how to get involved, please visit https://oregonidainitiative.org/.
About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)
OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.
24 de abril de 2024
El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios junto a Neighborhood Partnerships anuncian que $11.5 millones apoyarán a ahorradores con una Cuenta de Desarrollo Individual
SALEM, Ore. — El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregón (OHCS, por sus siglas en ingles), junto a Neighborhood Partnerships, anuncian que $11.5 millones serán destinados para apoyar la Iniciativa de Cuenta de Desarrollo Individual en el estado.
Una Cuenta de Desarrollo Individual (IDA, por sus siglas en inglés) es una cuenta de ahorro igualada, en la que el dinero que ahorran los participantes es multiplicado hasta cinco veces por el programa. A medida que los habitantes de Oregón se enfrentan a la inflación y al aumento de los costos de la vivienda, las cuentas IDA constituyen un recurso crucial para que las personas con ingresos más bajos puedan hacer frente a necesidades financieras como el ahorro para el pago inicial para una vivienda, la educación superior, las inversiones en microempresas y el ahorro de emergencia, con el apoyo de la educación financiera.
Los programas IDA son ofrecidos por una red estatal de organizaciones comunitarias, autoridades de vivienda, escuelas y universidades.
"La Iniciativa de Cuenta de Desarrollo Individual de Oregón sirve como un poderoso ejemplo de colaboración entre los gobiernos estatales y las organizaciones comunitaria para construir comunidades más inclusivas y equitativas en el estado", dijo Andrea Bell, directora ejecutiva de OHCS. "La inversión adicional muestra el compromiso del estado para facilitar soluciones que promuevan la movilidad social y económica".
Hasta la fecha, el programa IDA ha apoyado a más de 17,000 residentes de Oregón en 35 de los 36 condados del estado, distribuyendo $68 millones en fondos igualados a los ahorradores. A través de su red de proveedores, la Iniciativa hace que las cuentas IDA sean accesibles a los residentes de Oregón que han sido excluidos de las oportunidades de construir una estabilidad financiera duradera, incluidos los residentes de las comunidades afroamericana, nativa americana, latina y asiática.
"Como administrador desde hace mucho tiempo de la Iniciativa IDA de Oregón, Neighborhood Partnerships y nuestra red de socios comunitarios están muy contentos de recibir $5 millones adicionales de la Legislatura, que serán utilizados por los residentes de Oregón con ingresos más bajos para aumentar el poder de sus propios ahorros para alcanzar sus objetivos financieros, incluyendo la compra de la primera vivienda, la educación superior y el convertirse en empresarias", dijo Luke Bonham, director del Programa IDA de Neighborhood Partnerships.
Estos fondos se distribuyen a través de organizaciones fiduciarias para ayudar a los habitantes de Oregón a alcanzar sus objetivos financieros mediante ahorros igualadas. La adición de $5 millones en fondos generales permite un enfoque de financiación en dos fases en 2024-25 para ayudar a apoyar el crecimiento y el éxito continuo de la Iniciativa IDA. El enfoque tiene como objetivo aumentar el alcance del programa en los condados donde la participación es baja, y graduar a los ahorradores de comunidades de color a tasas que promuevan la equidad racial en la construcción de activos.
Para más información sobre la Iniciativa IDA y cómo participar, visite https://oregonidainitiative.org/.
Acerca del Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregon (OHCS)
OHCS es la agencia de financiación de viviendas de Oregón. La agencia estatal proporciona apoyo financiero y de programas para crear y preservar oportunidades de vivienda a precio asequible y de calidad para los habitantes de Oregón con ingresos bajos y moderados. OHCS administra programas que proporcionan estabilización de la vivienda. OHCS ofrece estos programas principalmente a través de subvenciones, contratos y acuerdos de préstamo con organizaciones locales y proveedores comunitarios. Para obtener más información, visite: oregon.gov/ohcs.
WALLA WALLA - Walla Walla Public Schools names this year's honorees for the Graduates of Distinction program. They are: Tricia Copeland Lubach – Class of 1985; Bill Fleenor – Class of 1969; Doug Gwinn – Class of 1932; Karen Hedine – Class of 1972 and Dean Lodmell – Class of 1952. This is the highest honor bestowed to graduates by the district.
These individuals have distinguished themselves in their communities and careers, and they continue to bring honor to the district. Celebrate alongside these distinguished alumni at a reception in their honor on Monday, June 3, 2024 (details listed below). Listen to their stories and hear who helped shape their lives during their school years.
RECEPTION DETAILS
Date: Monday, June 3, 2024
Time: 4 to 5:30 p.m.
Place: Walla Walla High School Commons (800 Abbott Road)
NOTE: This event is open to the public.
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April 24, 2024
Media contacts:
Erica Heartquist, Oregon Health Authority, ica.J.Heartquist@oha.oregon.gov">Erica.J.Heartquist@oha.oregon.gov, 503-871-8843
Jake Sunderland, Oregon Department of Human Services, land@odhs.oregon.gov">Jake.Sunderland@odhs.oregon.gov, 503-877-0170
More than one million people are keeping their Oregon Health Plan benefits due to Oregon’s efforts to expand coverage options
SALEM, Ore. — With more than 90 percent of the state’s 1.5 million renewals complete, more than 4 out of 5 Oregonians are keeping their Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or other Medicaid benefits.
During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE), which ended one year ago in April 2023, the federal government allowed states to keep people on Medicaid benefits. This ended when the pandemic emergency ended, so over the last year Oregon has been making sure everyone on OHP is still eligible.
At this point in the PHE unwinding process:
Oregon’s 81.8 percent renewal rate continues to be the third highest in a national comparison of state renewal rates by KFF, a nonpartisan health policy organization. Oregon’s high renewal rates are due to proactive efforts by the state to keep people covered, including extended response timelines, and adding the upcoming OHP Bridge program for adults with higher incomes.
Members who have not received a renewal yet should:
Although most people are keeping coverage, approximately 240,000 people will lose or have reduced medical benefits and need to consider other coverage options.
On Feb. 13, 2024, the federal government approved a revised plan for Oregon’s remaining 126,000 post-pandemic renewals.
Many of these renewals were affected by a federal request for more than 30 states to review automated renewal processes or restorations of some Oregon Supplemental Income Program Medical (OSIPM) benefits. A May 2024 technical update to Oregon’s ONE Eligibility system will enable Oregon to use the new automated process for the remaining renewals.
Renewal letters will be sent to members in four waves between June and September. Members will still have 90 days to respond, and 60 days’ advance notice before any termination or reduction in benefits. This means the final responses would be due in December 2024, and the final closures will happen in February 2025.
Data about pandemic unwinding renewals appears in the Medical Redeterminations Dashboard. The dashboard data and these press releases will not include renewals for OHP members who have already renewed early in the unwinding process, who are coming up for renewal again. Over time, Oregon is switching to renewing most OHP members every two years instead of annually.
As of March 19, 2024, 1,317,810 people have completed the renewal process. This represents 90.6 percent of all OHP and Medicaid members.
If you need to sign up for Medicare for the first time, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 800-772-1213 to enroll by phone or find a local office. You can also enroll in Medicare online at ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up.
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) are committed to transparency and will continue to send monthly information about medical coverage among Oregonians as the agencies continue to track the programs. Check our ONE Eligibility Operations Dashboards for more frequent updates on medical renewal data and wait times for callers to the ONE Customer Service Center.
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Pasco, WA, April 24, 2024 - Columbia Basin College (CBC) is proud to be a designated Tree Campus USA. To celebrate this recognition, the college will be planting three trees on Wednesday, April 24 at 1 pm in observance of Arbor Day. The trees will be planted on the northside of the SRC on the Pasco campus.
Tree Campus USA is a national program created in 2008 by the Arbor Day Foundation and sponsored by Toyota to honor colleges and universities for effective campus forest management and for engaging faculty, staff, students, and the community in meeting conservation goals. The acknowledgement means CBC uses best practices to plant and care for trees on campus and engaging students in efforts to make our communities a greener, and healthier, place to live.
Students, faculty, and staff in attendance will receive Arbor Day t-shirts, sponsored by the Associated Students of CBC (ASCBC), while supplies last. This event is open to everyone, including the community. We recommend that attendees wear athletic shoes and clothing that can get dirty. All other supplies for tree planting will be provided by our CBC Grounds & Landscaping team.
To learn more about our campus’s urban forest and our Tree Campus designation, we invite you to watch Celebrating Campus Trees at CBC or visit arborday.org/TreeCampusUSA.
When: Wednesday, April 24 at 1 pm
Where: Northside of SRC, Pasco Campus
This event is sponsored by ASCBC, the CBC Sustainability Committee, and CBC Grounds & Landscaping.
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Columbia Basin College (CBC) is a public community college serving the Tri-Cities and surrounding communities since 1955. CBC’s mission is to inspire, educate, and support all students in an environment of academic excellence leading to the completion of degrees, certifications, and educational transfers, while fostering meaningful employment, engaged citizenship, and a life-long joy of learning. CBC offers both two and four-year degrees and one-year Certificates. Bachelor of Applied Science degrees are offered in Applied Management, Applied Management in Agriculture or Healthcare Administration, Cyber Security, Dental Hygiene, Information Technology, Health Physics, Teacher Education and Project Management. CBC also offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of State Lands is accepting letters of interest for the Elliott State Research Forest Board of Directors.
Ensuring accountability, transparency, and meaningful engagement is critical to establishing and operating the Elliott as a public research forest. In April 2024, the State Land Board approved a research forest oversight structure that includes appointment of an ESRF Board of Directors.
The ESRF Board will guide management of the research forest, with authority to shape management, research, conservation, economic and social outcomes of relevance at the local, statewide, national, and international level.
The ESRF Board will consist of seven or nine voting and one nonvoting member designated by the ESRF’s lead research entity. Voting members are appointed by the State Land Board. The DSL Director will review letters of interest and develop a list of candidates for State Land Board consideration at its June 11, 2024, meeting.
Individuals interested in being considered for the ESRF Board should review the recruitment flyer and submit the required interest materials no later than Sunday, May 12, 2024.
UPDATE
OSP is setting up to stream the news conference on Facebook and will send a news release following the news conference.
Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/OSPsocial/
OSP News Conference regarding AMBER Alert suspect from Washington
Date: April 23, 2024 at 6 p.m.
Location: Public Safety Building, Harris Hall, 125 E 8th Ave., Eugene, OR 97401
Media may begin staging at 5:45 p.m. for the 6 p.m. news conference. OSP will provide an overview of the incident. It's uncertain whether OSP will take any questions at that time.
Salem, OR – It’s a day to remember those who died on the job. It’s a day to grieve with families, friends, and communities. It’s a day to renew our responsibility to create and maintain safe and healthy workplaces for all workers in Oregon.
Oregon workers who died on the job will be honored with a ceremony at noon Friday, April 26, in Salem. The Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) – part of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) – and Oregon AFL-CIO invite all Oregonians to attend the Workers Memorial Day observance.
The event will take place at the Fallen Workers Memorial outside the Labor and Industries Building, 350 Winter St. NE, on the Capitol Mall. The memorial service, coordinated by Oregon AFL-CIO, will feature remarks from union leaders, safety and health advocates, and elected officials.
“Every day, people across Oregon leave their homes and go to work to provide for themselves and their families – and to help make the state a thriving place to live,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “Today, we honor the Oregonians whose lives were tragically lost doing their job and offer our deepest condolences to their families. Going forward, we will continue our efforts to make working conditions safer, so all workers are better protected.”
During the ceremony, Sen. Deb Patterson and House Majority Leader Ben Bowman will read the names of Oregon workers who died on the job in 2023.
Oregon OSHA Administrator Renée Stapleton and Oregon AFL-CIO President Graham Trainor will serve as event speakers. The event will also include remarks from PCUN Representative Liz Marquez Gutierrez and a reading of Gov. Kotek’s proclamation by Vince Porter, the governor’s deputy chief of staff for public administration.
Oregon workplaces are safer and healthier today than in previous decades. Yet, there are still far too many preventable on-the-job deaths each year.
“Every worker and their family deserves to know, without question, that they will return home safely at the end of a shift,” Trainor said. “This year, we read the names of 56 fallen workers, which is an increase from last year and the absolutely starkest reminder that workplace safety must be taken seriously. Oregon unions will advocate for safety improvements on the job until there are no names to be read aloud on Workers Memorial Day. This is our most critical mission, and, while we’ve made significant progress, we must always strive for perfection when it comes to keeping working people safe on the job.”
Through a partnership of labor, business, and government working together to bolster workplace safety and health, Oregon’s fatality and injury and illness rates have steadily declined for decades.
Nevertheless, there is room for improvement.
“As we honor the memories of the lives tragically taken from us, we must also summon our courage, skill, and ethical duty to rekindle our commitment to protecting the safety and health of all workers in Oregon,” Stapleton said. “Everyone who plays a role in the safety and health of Oregon workplaces – employers, managers, safety and health professionals, employees, co-workers – must do this with urgency and clarity. Through our actions and words, we must carry the message forward that workers have an indisputable right to a safe and healthy workplace and that employers are obligated – not just legally, but morally – to protect their workers from harm.”
The annual Workers Memorial Day serves as a nationwide day of remembrance. The observance is traditionally held on April 28 because the U.S. Congress passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act on that date in 1970.
Resources are available to workers and employers to advance on-the-job safety and health in Oregon, including:
Oregon OSHA
DCBS Multicultural Communications Program
Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers
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Oregon OSHA, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. For more information, visit Oregon OSHA.
The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, visit DCBS.
The Oregon AFL-CIO is the statewide federation of affiliated unions, representing more than 300,000 working Oregonians. For more information, visit Oregon AFL-CIO.
Over 4,000 SOLVE volunteers celebrated Earth Day across 126 Oregon Spring Cleanup events over the span of ten days
Portland, Ore., April 23, 2024 – The Oregon Spring Cleanup, in partnership with Portland General Electric, concluded on Earth Day yesterday with resounding success. Between April 13 and April 22, more than 4,000 volunteers across Oregon and SW Washington gathered for a celebration of Earth Day, where they collectively picked up 21,981 pounds of litter and marine debris and removed 21,900 square feet of invasive plant species such as English Ivy and Himalayan Blackberry. Families, community members, neighborhood associations, youth groups, and environmental enthusiasts once again made the Oregon Spring Cleanup the highlight of SOLVE's annual calendar.
Oregon Spring Cleanup History
Rooted in SOLVE's longstanding traditions, the Oregon Spring Cleanup merged two of the organization's most cherished events—the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup, dating back to 1986, and SOLVE IT for Earth Day, which began in 1990.
Oregon Spring Cleanup event highlights
SE Portland Eco-Disco: Litter Cleanup & Silent Disco, April 20th:
In collaboration with Heartbeat Silent Disco, this unique Earth Day celebration, in partnership with Portland General Electric, drew 114 volunteers to Portland’s Central Eastside. Following the cleanup in the Buckman neighborhood, where 800 lbs of litter got collected, the festivities continued with a free silent dance party, adding an extra layer of celebration to the cleanup efforts. Volunteers were provided with wireless headphones with personal volume control and adjustable fit, allowing everyone to enjoy the music while respecting the natural surroundings.
Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup at Sport Oregon, April 22nd:
This litter cleanup event took place on Earth Day and went beyond tidying up the neighborhood streets. 100 participants came together for a day of community, cleanliness, and local love at Sport Oregon to foster a sense of unity and enhance the local environment.
“Once again, we were thrilled to witness the vibrant array of events orchestrated by our community, showcasing the power of collective action in honoring Earth Day," enthuses Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. "This annual event series continues to serve as a beacon, drawing together volunteers and SOLVE partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a joyous celebration of our planet. From the shores of Oregon’s northernmost tip in Astoria, down the coast to Brookings, and extending to riverside locations such as Cascade Locks, Sandy, and Breitenbush, as well as reaching Baker City in Eastern Oregon, the spirit of Earth Day resonated through every cleanup endeavor." Carico highlights the diverse range of initiatives, including the impactful efforts of the Portland chapter of Women Who Explore, bringing together 20 women for a Pre-Earth Day Riverside Cleanup at Kelley Point Park. A Girl Scout group also picked up trash along the Molalla River in Clackamas County and the Clark County Master Gardener group held an impactful Service Day in Vancouver, Washington. "These events exemplify the spirit of community and environmental stewardship that lies at the heart of SOLVE," Carico adds.
Photo Contest
There is still time for volunteers and event leaders to send in the pictures they have taken during their cleanup events and habitat restoration projects. Everyone who submits their photos and videos by
April 28 will enter the SOLVE photo contest with chances to win a 1-year AAA membership. Ways to enter include tagging SOLVE on Facebook or Instagram, using #OregonSpringCleanup2024, or sending us their footage via email to info@solveoregon.org. SOLVE likes to see volunteers in action, before and after cleanup shots, the largest and tiniest items you've picked up, and most importantly, your smiling faces!
Anyone who couldn’t attend an Oregon Spring Cleanup event this year can support SOLVE by individual giving. A donation of any size helps SOLVE to host more events year after year and to provide volunteers with free supplies, event leader training, and all the support they need to run a successful event.
Oregon Spring Cleanup Sponsors 2024
Along with Portland General Electric, other event sponsors include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Oregonian, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, PepsiCo, and Wells Fargo.
About SOLVE
SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.
Spokane, Washington - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington and the Department of Justice’s Office of Victims of Crime (OVC) joins communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and celebrating victims’ rights, protections, and services. This year’s observance takes place April 21-27, 2024, and features the theme, “How would you help? Options, services, and hope for crime survivors.” The theme aims to ensure that everyone in a community knows where and how crime victims and survivors can find help — including friends, family members, colleagues, neighbors, service providers, or other trusted members of the community.
In 1975, the first “Victims’ Rights Week” was organized in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by the then district attorney. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week” in 1981 to highlight the importance of prioritizing the rights and needs of crime victims. President Reagan also established the President’s Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the foundation for a national network to provide services and legal safeguards for crime victims.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington has a dedicated team of prosecutors and victim assistance professionals, who work together to ensure victims receive the services and support they need. Early intervention helps prevent further victimization and encourages victim involvement in the justice system, mitigating the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.
Each year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington prosecutes numerous cases involving individuals who are victims of violent, financial, environmental, and other crimes. In 2023 and continuing into 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s office has filed more than 70 victim cases, which include more than 1,000 individual victims. In each case, victim assistance specialists from our office provide victims with essential services, including referrals to counseling, and help to secure temporary housing, as necessary. These advocates also assist with access to victim’s compensation funds and accompany victims to court proceedings to provide support and guidance.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office also works tirelessly to recover restitution on behalf of victims. In 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington recovered more than $68 million on behalf of victims, much of which was recovered in connection with Cody Easterday’s “ghost cattle” scheme. In 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office already has recovered another $15 million in restitution on behalf of victims, bringing the total recovery in just the last year and a half to more than $84 million dollars. These restitution funds are provided directly to those who are victims of violent, financial, sexual exploitation and child abuse, as well as other crimes.
“Honoring the voice of victims of crime is a critical part of securing justice. Providing victims information and a choice in how they participate in cases, is not only their right, but also a meaningful path to recovery from the trauma they have endured,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I am also grateful for the dedicated service of our victim assistance specialists – Jolene Jones and Marissa Allen – who work tirelessly to ensure the rights of all victims in the Eastern District of Washington. Their important work helps promote healing and provides victims tools for their future, thereby strengthening Eastern Washington communities.”
Representative examples of victim cases prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in 2023 and 2024, include the following:
U.S. Attorney Waldref added, “These representative cases demonstrate the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to protecting victims in Eastern Washington. My office will continue to identify and prosecute those who harm our citizens, and we will seek to hold accountable those who exploit vulnerable members of our community.”
To commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, trees at the federal courthouses in Spokane, Richland and Yakima have been decorated with pink and purple ribbons.
More information about OVC, as well as resources for victims of crime, can be found here.
Over 4,000 SOLVE volunteers celebrated Earth Day across 126 Oregon Spring Cleanup events over the span of ten days
Portland, Ore., April 23, 2024 – The Oregon Spring Cleanup, in partnership with Portland General Electric, concluded on Earth Day yesterday with resounding success. Between April 13 and April 22, more than 4,000 volunteers across Oregon and SW Washington gathered for a celebration of Earth Day, where they collectively picked up 21,981 pounds of litter and marine debris and removed 21,900 square feet of invasive plant species such as English Ivy and Himalayan Blackberry. Families, community members, neighborhood associations, youth groups, and environmental enthusiasts once again made the Oregon Spring Cleanup the highlight of SOLVE's annual calendar.
Oregon Spring Cleanup History
Rooted in SOLVE's longstanding traditions, the Oregon Spring Cleanup merged two of the organization's most cherished events—the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup, dating back to 1986, and SOLVE IT for Earth Day, which began in 1990.
Oregon Spring Cleanup event highlights
SE Portland Eco-Disco: Litter Cleanup & Silent Disco, April 20th:
In collaboration with Heartbeat Silent Disco, this unique Earth Day celebration, in partnership with Portland General Electric, drew 114 volunteers to Portland’s Central Eastside. Following the cleanup in the Buckman neighborhood, where 800 lbs of litter got collected, the festivities continued with a free silent dance party, adding an extra layer of celebration to the cleanup efforts. Volunteers were provided with wireless headphones with personal volume control and adjustable fit, allowing everyone to enjoy the music while respecting the natural surroundings.
Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup at Sport Oregon, April 22nd:
This litter cleanup event took place on Earth Day and went beyond tidying up the neighborhood streets. 100 participants came together for a day of community, cleanliness, and local love at Sport Oregon to foster a sense of unity and enhance the local environment.
“Once again, we were thrilled to witness the vibrant array of events orchestrated by our community, showcasing the power of collective action in honoring Earth Day," enthuses Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. "This annual event series continues to serve as a beacon, drawing together volunteers and SOLVE partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a joyous celebration of our planet. From the shores of Oregon’s northernmost tip in Astoria, down the coast to Brookings, and extending to riverside locations such as Cascade Locks, Sandy, and Breitenbush, as well as reaching Baker City in Eastern Oregon, the spirit of Earth Day resonated through every cleanup endeavor." Carico highlights the diverse range of initiatives, including the impactful efforts of the Portland chapter of Women Who Explore, bringing together 20 women for a Pre-Earth Day Riverside Cleanup at Kelley Point Park. A Girl Scout group also picked up trash along the Molalla River in Clackamas County and the Clark County Master Gardener group held an impactful Service Day in Vancouver, Washington. "These events exemplify the spirit of community and environmental stewardship that lies at the heart of SOLVE," Carico adds.
Photo Contest
There is still time for volunteers and event leaders to send in the pictures they have taken during their cleanup events and habitat restoration projects. Everyone who submits their photos and videos by
April 28 will enter the SOLVE photo contest with chances to win a 1-year AAA membership. Ways to enter include tagging SOLVE on Facebook or Instagram, using #OregonSpringCleanup2024, or sending us their footage via email to info@solveoregon.org. SOLVE likes to see volunteers in action, before and after cleanup shots, the largest and tiniest items you've picked up, and most importantly, your smiling faces!
Anyone who couldn’t attend an Oregon Spring Cleanup event this year can support SOLVE by individual giving. A donation of any size helps SOLVE to host more events year after year and to provide volunteers with free supplies, event leader training, and all the support they need to run a successful event.
Oregon Spring Cleanup Sponsors 2024
Along with Portland General Electric, other event sponsors include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Oregonian, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, and PepsiCo.
About SOLVE
SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.
April 23, 2024
Media Contact: Erica Heartquist, ica.j.heartquist@oha.oregon.gov">erica.j.heartquist@oha.oregon.gov, 503.871.8843
Oregon Health Authority furthers commitment to helping make healthcare more affordable across state
(PORTLAND, Ore. –) According to an Oregon Health Authority (OHA) report out today, the amount that Oregonians with commercial and Medicare Advantage insurance paid in deductibles, copays and co-insurance increased more than 17 percent from 2015 to 2022. As health care costs continue to grow, the amount that people with health insurance pay for their care – known as patient responsibility or patient cost sharing – is also rising.
On average, in 2022, people in Oregon with commercial health insurance were responsible for 13.4% of their total health care costs, and people with Medicare Advantage insurance were responsible for 9.1% of their total health care costs. This does not include how much people pay for their health insurance premiums.
Over the past several years, patient cost sharing increased by 17.4% for commercially insured Oregonians and 17.7% for those with Medicare Advantage insurance. That growth was driven primarily by increasing deductibles in the commercial market and co-insurance for prescription drugs in the Medicare Advantage market.
At least 28 percent of Oregonians were considered underinsured in 2021, meaning that even though they have health insurance, it was too expensive for them to use.
“Too many Oregonians are struggling to afford their health care, even as more than 95 percent of people in the state now have health coverage,” said OHA Director, Dr. Sejal Hathi. “This report provides more information about how much people in Oregon are paying for health care and the reasons for those cost increases. Health insurance should open the door to care, but instead, we know that even moderate increases in cost sharing can thwart access for those who need it most. OHA will continue to work both to rein in health care costs and to protect and expand access to care.”
When an individual or a household buys healthcare insurance, they agree to a certain set of arrangements for services are covered by the health plan and how much of the cost the health plan will pay. The portion of the cost of covered services that the patient is responsible for is “patient cost sharing.”
Unlike health insurance premiums, which are paid to the health plan whether any services are used or not, cost sharing only applies when services are used. Examples of patient cost sharing are deductibles, copays and co-insurance.
The report shows that people in Oregon with commercial health insurance paid for 13.6% of their total health care costs on average in 2022, with more than half of that going toward deductibles. Commercial deductibles grew 31.9% between 2015-2022, faster than the growth in commercial co-insurance (19.2%) and copays (4.3%).
This is in part due to the increase in number of people who have a high-deductible health plan. People with high deductible health plans are responsible for 22.9% of their total health care costs, even though their average annual health care costs were lower.
The report also shows that in 2022, people in Oregon with Medicare Advantage insurance paid 9.1% of their total health care costs, on average. More than 60 percent of Medicare Advantage cost sharing was in the form of copays and less than 5 percent was paid in deductibles.
In the commercial market, almost 40% of the cost sharing in 2022 was for professional services like a doctor’s visit. In the Medicare Advantage market, almost 40% of the cost sharing in 2022 was for prescription drugs, with people paying increasingly more in co-insurance for specialty drugs.
OHA presented preliminary findings on patient cost sharing in an educational webinar in March. The recording from that webinar is available online here. View the patient cost sharing analysis webinar slides here.
The Cost Growth Target Advisory Committee meets each month to discuss and plan strategies for increased health care affordability.
Explore the patient cost sharing data in an interactive online dashboard and find the full patient cost sharing report online here.
The City of Richland will celebrate Arbor Day on Friday, April 26, at 12:15 p.m. in Jefferson Park. About 25 trees will be planted by Jefferson Elementary Kindergarteners and community volunteers.
The celebration begins with a proclamation and recognition of Richland's long-term Tree City USA and Tree Line USA designations. The City Arborist and parks crew will conduct a tree-planting demonstration before the volunteers plant the trees.
Jefferson Park is located at 1400 George Washington Way.
We invite the media to attend this exciting occasion with us!
RICHLAND, Wash. – Washington State University Tri-Cities will honor more than 280 graduating students this year. The honorees include graduates from the fall 2023 and spring 2024 terms.
WSU Tri-Cities chancellor Sandra Haynes will give opening remarks followed by a keynote address given by Frank Armijo. An honorary doctorate degree will be presented to Patricia Whitefoot.
The two-hour WSU Tri-Cities Commencement Ceremony will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 4 at the Toyota Center, 7016 W Grandridge Blvd., Kennewick, WA 99336. No tickets are required. Parking is free. Doors to the venue open at noon. The Toyota Center has entry requirements including a clear bag policy.
BACKGROUND ON THE GRADUATES
The 2024 graduates include 12 doctoral candidates in the areas of biological and agricultural engineering, computer science, education, engineering science, nursing practice, and teaching and learning.
The 24 master’s candidates will receive degrees in biology, computer science, education, environmental engineering, environmental science, mechanical engineering, and teaching.
Over 250 bachelor’s candidates will receive degrees in biology, business administration, civil engineering, computer science, digital technology and culture, earth and environmental science, education, electrical engineering, English, history, hospitality business management, humanities, integrated plant sciences, mechanical engineering, nursing, psychology, science, social sciences, and viticulture and enology.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER (photo)
Frank Armijo is a distinguished leader and a retired vice president of Lockheed Martin. His professional experience includes federal, commercial, and international business initiatives. Currently, Armijo is a principal with The Armijo Group and serves on the Washington Roundtable and the Gonzaga University Board of Regents.
As a staunch supporter of higher education, Armijo works tirelessly to encourage and empower young people to pursue advanced degrees, particularly in STEM-related fields. In 2014, he was named one of the Top 100 Corporate STEM Leaders. Much of his volunteer and philanthropic efforts are directed toward academics.
Armijo is a founding board member of the National Reading Foundation and a co-founder of the Hispanic Academic Achievers Program (HAAP), which has distributed over $2 million in scholarships to students pursuing higher education.
Armijo graduated from Eastern Washington University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in management information systems with a minor in communication. He also has an Associate of Arts degree and an Applied Science degree in computer science from Columbia Basin College. He is an inductee into the Northwest Athletic Community College Hall of Fame.
HONORARY DOCTORATE (photo)
Patricia (Patsy) Whitefoot, a member of the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, is an outstanding visionary and transformative leader in Native education. She has served at various levels, from rural Tribal communities to state, regional, national, and international arenas, advocating for and addressing critical issues of cultural, health, and human justice rights.
Whitefoot has held positions and received appointments on numerous national and regional boards. She served as the Supervisor of Indian Education for Washington and was appointed by the Obama administration to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Advisory Council on Indian Education. Additionally, she has been the Education Chair of the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians for more than 25 years and served two terms as the President of the National Indian Education Association.
At the grassroots level, Whitefoot has been instrumental in helping generations of students and families learn about tribal sovereignty, civic engagement, and cultural preservation across the northwest region.
Whitefoot’s connection with WSU began during her tenure as a young educator at White Swan High School on the Yakama Reservation. She actively served on the university’s Native American Advisory Board and the Native American Health Sciences Tribal Advisory Board, advocating for WSU priorities at both federal and state levels.
Most recently, Whitefoot has directed her focus towards the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women and people (MMIWP). She serves on a task force convened by the Washington State Attorney General’s office and on the Federal Not Invisible Act Commission, appointed by Secretary Deb Haaland, U.S. Department of the Interior.
About WSU Tri-Cities
WSU Tri-Cities is located on shared traditional homelands of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. As a leading public research university with a focus on energy, environment and agriculture, WSU Tri-Cities delivers career-connected learning and innovative research that addresses economic and social challenges.
WALLA WALLA - Walla Walla High School earned high national and state rankings in 2024 Best High Schools, which U.S. News released this morning. Ranking factors include college readiness, access to college-level curriculum, state assessment proficiency and graduation rates.
"We are so pleased to learn that Wa-Hi again earned recognition as a U.S. News Best High School,” said Walla Walla High School Principal John Schumacher. “We ranked in the top 1/3 of all high schools in the state and nation, boasting especially high marks on our college readiness and breadth index, in addition to our strong graduation rates, and reading and science scores."
By earning a national ranking in the top 40%, Walla Walla High School achieved status as a U.S. News Best High School and gained eligibility to display a U.S. News-trademarked 2024 Best High Schools award. Wa-Hi’s ranking landed them as one of the top-rated high schools in the entire region.
The U.S. News Best High Schools rankings include data on nearly 25,000 public high schools in 50 states and the District of Columbia. Nearly 18,000 schools were ranked on six factors based on their performance on state assessments, graduation rates and how well they prepare students for college.
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Salem, Ore. - The Oregon National Guard’s Biak Training Center, in Powell Butte, is scheduled to host active-duty Army rotary wing night training missions, outside of normal operations hours over April 24-29, 2024. The visiting unit is located at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, in Tacoma, Washington.
Army rotary wing aircraft are scheduled to conduct intermittent nighttime air operations at Biak’s
Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) training site in order to maintain pilot and crew proficiency necessary to support real world military operations.
“Night training missions are a critical component for pilots to maintain their readiness for real-world missions,” said Michael Paul, Biak Training Area Manager. “We understand that this type of training can be disruptive to the local community and appreciate their support for mission readiness.”
Night flying operations will occur from sundown until approximately midnight and may include low-level flying and refueling stops at the Redmond Airport.
Information regarding Biak Training Center may be found on the Oregon Military Department website at https://www.oregon.gov/omd/programs/Pages/Biak-Training-Center.aspx
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The Friends of the Richland Library’s Spring 2024 book sale begins Thursday, April 25, at 5:00 p.m. for members, and Friday and Saturday, April 26 and 27 at 10:00 a.m. for the general public.
Memberships are available for $10.00 per individual, or $15.00 for a family.
There are thousands of books and a wide variety of subjects and genres to choose from. Prices range from .25 to $1.00 per item. There are also some puzzles, CDs and DVDs too.
On Saturday, you can fill a bag for only $5.00. Bring your own or one will be given to you.
All proceeds are redirected back to support and expand library activities and programs.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/friendsofrichlandpubliclibrary.
Salem, Ore. – Tucked away with a stack of other tickets in a Tupperware container was this year’s $1 million Raffle ticket. Leslie Carr, 52, of Portland claimed the prize on Monday after she brought her pile of tickets to the retailer where she buys them – the Fred Meyer in Happy Valley.
“I had no idea I was the winner,” said Carr, who works as a medical receptionist. “If it weren’t for the billion dollar Powerball winner making news, I would have forgot. We don’t check our tickets.”
After scanning a few dozen tickets for other draw games in the store, the last one was the winning Raffle ticket, drawn on March 15. When the machine came up with a message that she needed to go an Oregon Lottery office, she asked a staff member at the store to double check.
“I heard him say, ‘Oh, I can’t cash this because your prize is worth over $1,000,’” she said. “That’s when I started getting butterflies.”
Carr plans to use the money to pay off the mortgage on the home she shares with her husband, calling it “a dream come true.” A new truck to replace the one she currently drives with a broken windshield is also on her wish list, along with a vacation to Hawaii.
Carr said she regularly plays the annual Raffle and has never won. Prizes for the Raffle include the $1 million top prize, along with 300 prizes of $500, and 1,500 prizes of $100. The Raffle offers the best odds of any Oregon Lottery game to win $1 million – 1 in 250,000. Overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 138.8. The Oregon Lottery’s Raffle game went on sale December 31, 2023, and all 250,000 tickets were sold out by March 8, 2024.
The Oregon Lottery reminds players to always sign the back of their Lottery tickets, regardless of the game. In the event of winning a jackpot, they should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings.
Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned nearly $15.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.
WHAT
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is hosting its eighth annual Oregon Prepared Conference for the emergency management community this Tuesday through Thursday in Sunriver.
WHY
The annual conference serves as a vital gathering for emergency management professionals, providing a forum for stakeholders from various sectors to exchange ideas, discuss current trends, and share information about the latest tools and technology in emergency management and homeland security. Attendees include partners with a role in preparedness, response, recovery and resilience from tribes, counties, cities, special districts, state and federal emergency management agencies, public safety and health preparedness sectors, non-profit organizations, and private sector businesses.
WHO
Oregon Department of Emergency Management Director Erin McMahon and Deputy Director Patence Winningham will be available for interviews about the state of emergency management in Oregon. Media may also visit a workshop session for B-roll footage.
WHEN
Media Avail from 9:45-10:15 a.m., Today, April 23
WHERE
Great Hall Conference Center
Sunriver Lodge
57081 Great Hall Loop, Sunriver, Oregon
OTHER INFORMATION
Website: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop
Program: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop Program
SOCIAL
@oregonOEM on Facebook, X and LinkedIn
ONSITE MEDIA CONTACT
Chris Crabb (she/her)
OEM Public Affairs Officer
971-719-0089 (talk or text)
Please text upon arrival
PORTLAND, OREGON– On Friday, April 19, 2024, FBI Director Christopher Wray presented the Interfaith Peace and Action Collaborative (IPAC) with the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA) for their service to the Portland area. Lisa Broderick accepted the FBI Portland 2023 Director’s Community Leadership Award on behalf of IPAC. IPAC is a united group that proactively gathers as members of faith, community, business, and law enforcement to discuss and create action around bringing peace to Portland’s streets. The group researches best practices and identifies appropriate actions, technology, and street-level solutions to address violence at a grassroots level. IPAC is also working to become a model for, and share information with, other cities that are struggling with an uptick in crime.
“IPAC is intentional about promoting restraint on the street and creating and maintaining dialogue between the community members it represents and law enforcement. This directly intersects with the FBI’s national mission of protecting the American people, and FBI Portland’s local mission of keeping the people of Oregon safe,” said Douglas A. Olson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. “FBI Portland is proud to work with the leaders of IPAC as they devote countless hours to addressing the crisis of violence on Portland streets and are working toward solutions for a safer, shared community.”
The FBI established the DCLA in 1990 to publicly acknowledge the achievements of those working to make a difference in their communities through the promotion of education and the prevention of crime and violence. Each year, one person or organization from each of the FBI’s 56 field offices is chosen to receive this prestigious award.
"Our success as both a law enforcement and an intelligence agency hinges on our ability to foster and maintain genuine partnerships with people in all communities,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “People like this year’s Leadership Award recipients not only identify what others need, but they are willing to roll up their sleeves and provide services. They are building bridges and relationships while putting in the work to have hard conversations and find common purpose. They do it out of kindness and compassion with a sincere belief that justice – in its many forms – requires all of us to do the right thing in the right way."
Director Wray hosted the 2023 DCLA winners in a special ceremony at FBI Headquarters on April 19th, emphasizing the importance of community partnerships in keeping our shared communities safe. These partnerships – as exemplified by the breadth of the work by the DCLA recipients – have led to a host of crime prevention programs that protect the most vulnerable in our communities, educate families and businesses about cyber threats, and work to reduce violent crime in our neighborhoods. Learn more about the Director's Community Leadership Award, IPAC, and the FBI Portland Field Office online DCLA 2023 Winners — FBI. Learn more about the FBI’s general outreach efforts, and the Portland Field Office online About — FBI.
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Attached photo: Lisa Broderick accepted the FBI Portland 2023 Director’s Community Leadership Award on behalf of the Interfaith Peace and Action Collaborative.
Yakima, WA – April 25, 2024 – The Yakima School District is thrilled to announce the winners of the 2024 Voices/Voces writing contest. This annual event, sponsored by the Teaching and Learning Department, encourages the literary talents of students and staff across the district, spanning grades PK-12. This year’s contest saw a remarkable range of entries, highlighting the creativity and depth of our district's participants.
The contest winners, selected for their exceptional skills in narrative, poetry, and essay writing, will be honored at the Voices/Voces Writing Awards Ceremony. The celebration is set for Tuesday, April 30th, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the Eisenhower High School Auditorium. Winners will receive a certificate and a copy of the "Voices/Voces 2024" district writing anthology, where their works will be published.
The event will showcase winners like Rory Scheidegger from McKinley Elementary, who captured the hearts of judges with his narrative "The Gamer," and Aubrey Gonzalez of Davis High School, whose poetic expression in "Paper and Ink" resonated deeply. In the essay category, Wilson Harper of Davis High School stood out with his insightful work, "Safeguarding the Future: Preventing Contamination in the Search for Extraterrestrial Life."
Erin Chaplin, the contest coordinator, expressed her excitement about this year’s entries: "The results are in, and they are nothing short of inspiring. Our students and staff have once again demonstrated their outstanding literary abilities and creative thinking."
The Yakima School District invites family, friends, and the community to join in celebrating these talented writers. The Voices/Voces Writing Awards Ceremony is an opportunity not only to recognize the winners but also to affirm the district's commitment to fostering a love of writing and literature among its students and staff.
For more information on the winners and to read their entries, please visit the Voices/Voces page on the district’s website at YSD7.org/learning/voices
Contact: Kirsten Fitterer Chief Communications Officer Yakima School District Email: fitterer@ysd7.org Media Inquiries: www.YSD7.org/media
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PORTLAND, Ore.— Every April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) to honor crime victims, promote their rights and recognize victim advocates. This year’s observance, the 43rd annual commemoration, takes place April 21-27, 2024, with the theme: Options, services, and hope for crime survivors.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office joins its federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners in taking this opportunity to highlight the importance of providing necessary services at the earliest possible stage of victimization and litigation. Early intervention helps prevent further victimization and encourages victim involvement in the criminal justice system, mitigating the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.
“Through the work of our victim services team, our new special victims unit, and all our staff who work on victim cases, seeking justice on behalf crime victims is central to our mission and continues to be a top priority for our office,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local, and tribal agencies host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services.
OVC and U.S. Attorney’s Offices encourage widespread participation in the week’s events and in other victim-related observances throughout the year. For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov. For ongoing updates from OVC and ideas for how you can support crime victims throughout the year, please subscribe to OVC’s email notifications at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/subscribe/.
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you believe you have been the target or victim of a crime, please contact your local law enforcement agency or your nearest FBI field office immediately. The FBI Portland Field Office can be reached at (503) 224-4181 or by submitting tips online at tips.fbi.gov.
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As many of you know, the Toppenish School District, like many districts across the state, is facing some financial challenges as we look toward the next school year. At this time, the District is facing an $8.6M shortfall for the 2024/25 school year. There are several reasons the District is in this financial trouble. First, grant funding expected to pay for the new state-of-the-art preschool did not come through, requiring the District to dip into funding reserves to make up the $5M shortfall. Added to that, student enrollment has still not rebounded following COVID-19. Across the state, public school enrollment, a significant factor in determining the state funding for schools, is still down nearly 6%. TSD also lost nearly 250 Alternative Learning Education (ALE) students attending school online, which further reduced TSD funding. Finally, in a mixed blessing of sorts, Toppenish property values have significantly increased. However, that means levy equalization funding provided by the state for school districts with lower property values has decreased significantly. A lot of unforeseen issues surfaced at one time that we had no way of anticipating. Right now, our main objective is dealing with the situation in front of us while still providing the high-quality education our students deserve.
The District formulated a budget advisory committee several months ago and gathered input and ideas to help guide strategies for addressing the budget shortfall. With over eighty percent of the District budget being spent on personnel, the budget shortfall will mean reducing positions. Although other cuts are necessary and are being made, cutting staff was really the only way to make up a shortfall of this extent. The districts’ first step was to look at attrition—how many staff members were planning to retire or resign and if those positions could remain open. The next step was looking at support positions like the number of nurses needed now that COVID-19 requirements have relaxed. Reducing teaching staff and direct support for our students was the last and final thing the District considered.
Overall, the District will be reducing salaries and benefits for all central office administrators and cutting 2 central office administrative positions. The District will also be reducing salaries and benefits for all school and department administrative staff. The district is reducing 3 school administrative positions, 10 teacher positions, 2 graduation specialists, 7 classified staff positions and 1 supervisor. Another 24 positions were reduced through retirements or resignations.
This is painful work, and these are painful conversations to have to reach this level of budget reduction, but it’s necessary for the District to move forward and continue to serve students in a meaningful way. We welcome parents, staff, and community members to reach out with questions or concerns. The best way to stay informed is to attend upcoming school board meetings. The next school board meeting is April 23rd from 7-9 p.m. at the District Office.
For further inquiries, please contact:
John Schieche, Interim Superintendent
Phone: (509) 969-7804
Salem, Oregon – Next week, 18-year-old Katie Lineburg of Hillsboro will embark on the greatest adventure of her lifetime. As Oregon’s 2024 champion, Lineburg will travel to Washington D.C. to compete in the Poetry Out Loud National Competition on Wednesday, May 1. Her D.C. itinerary also includes meetings with Oregon Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici and Sen. Jeff Merkley.
“I am so filled with thankfulness, anticipation and awe as I prepare for my trip to Washington D.C.,” said Lineburg. “This experience has been such a whirlwind of blessing, growth and new opportunities, and I will forever be grateful for the chance to represent my home state of Oregon as well as my school and everyone who has made this adventure of a lifetime possible as I compete at Poetry Out Loud nationals.”
A senior from St. Stephen’s Academy, Lineburg will compete in the national semifinals from 2 to 5 p.m. (PDT) on Wednesday, May 1. The competition will be live-streamed on the National Endowment for the Arts website. The top nine students will advance to the national finals at 4 p.m. (PDT) on Thursday, May 2, also to be live-streamed.
Lineburg is the oldest of five siblings who loves music and spending time with friends and family. She is a member of the St. Stephen’s Academy Festival Choir and loves poetry because “it allows her to connect with people and express emotions in a deeper way.” She has also loved public speaking since a very young age.
“The reading of poetry can transform the written word into a deeply felt shared experience,” said First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, who attended the Poetry Out Loud State Contest on March 9 at Salem Public Library.
“Poetry Out Loud is a wonderful program that allows young people to connect with the human experience through the power of words,” First Lady Kotek Wilson added. “Congratulations to Katie Lineburg for representing Oregon in the national competition. We are all rooting for you!”
The poems Lineburg will perform for the national competition are "The Pulley" by George Herbert, "Beginning" by James Wright and “A Noiseless Spiker” by Walt Whitman.
Poetry Out Loud is a national recitation contest for high school students, organized in Oregon by the Oregon Arts Commission in collaboration with the NEA and the Poetry Foundation. Participants memorize and present poems, practicing public speaking skills while exploring the complexity of poetry.
See video of Lineburg performing and being announced as Oregon’s champion.
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 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. More information about the Oregon Arts Commission is available online at: www.oregonartscommission.org.
WHAT
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is hosting its eighth annual Oregon Prepared Conference for 500 emergency management professionals this Tuesday through Thursday in Sunriver.
WHO
Oregon Department of Emergency Management Director Erin McMahon and Deputy Director Patence Winningham will be available for interviews about the state of emergency management in Oregon. Media may also visit a workshop session for B-roll footage.
WHEN
Media Avail from 9:45-10:15 a.m., Tuesday, April 23
WHERE
Great Hall Conference Center
Sunriver Lodge
57081 Great Hall Loop, Sunriver, Oregon
WHY
The annual conference serves as a vital gathering for emergency management professionals, providing a forum for stakeholders from various sectors to exchange ideas, discuss current trends, and share information about the latest tools and technology in emergency management and homeland security. Attendees include partners with a role in preparedness, response, recovery and resilience from tribes, counties, cities, special districts, state and federal emergency management agencies, public safety and health preparedness sectors, non-profit organizations, and private sector businesses.
OTHER INFORMATION
Website: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop
Program: Oregon Prepared Emergency Preparedness Workshop Program
SOCIAL
@oregonOEM on Facebook, X and LinkedIn
ONSITE MEDIA CONTACT
Chris Crabb (she/her)
OEM Public Affairs Officer
971-719-0089 (talk or text)
Please text upon arrival
Douglas County, Ore. 19 Apr. 24- On Friday, April 19, 2024, at 7:58 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 146, in Douglas County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Jaguar F-Pace, operated by Paul William Jordison (23) of Rochester (WA), veered off the right-hand shoulder of the roadway for unknown reasons. The Jaguar left the roadway, traveled airborne for approximately 100 feet down an embankment, and struck a tree approximately 15 feet above the ground level before falling to the base of the tree.
The operator (Jordison) was declared deceased at the scene.
Before the crash, the Jaguar was reportedly driving at high speeds.
The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by North Douglas County Fire and ODOT.
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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.