Update- Suspect age corrected to be 34.

Polk County, Ore. 13 Sept 24- Oregon State Police investigating officer involved shooting in Polk County. 

At approximately 4:30 a.m., September 13, Salem Police officers responded to the call of a woman reporting she was being kidnapped at 585 Wallace Rd NW (Salem).  Officers located the suspect vehicle with the woman inside. As officers attempted to stop the male driver, he turned into the parking lot of an apartment complex in the 300 block of Glen Creek RD NW. 

The suspect vehicle stopped in the complex parking lot. The woman got out of the car as officers approached the involved vehicle. The suspect exited the car armed with a knife and was shot by two of the responding officers. 

The 34-year-old suspect, Daniel Lewis Garcia, was provided immediate medical aid by officers prior to being transported to Salem Health where he is currently being treated.   

The involved Salem police officers have been identified as: Officer Nathan Bush (7 yrs.), Officer Colten Ruyle (1 yr.), and Officer Faith Hovenden (1.5 yrs.). No officers were injured during the incident.

The Polk County Law Enforcement Use of Deadly Force Plan under Senate Bill 111 has been initiated for this incident, and the Oregon State Police will be conducting the primary investigation in coordination with the Polk County District Attorney’s Office.   

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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that protects Oregon's people, wildlife, and natural resources. 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. 

Supporting documents are available via the following link:  https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/997

Board of Directors Meeting Schedule & Information:  https://www.wwps.org/district/information/school-board/board-meeting-schedule

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Family Fun Night with Award-Winning Author Christine Day at Heritage University!

Join us on Monday, September 16th from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM at the Great Lawn area of Heritage University for a night of FREE family fun! 

Award-winning Native American author Christine Day will host a read-aloud and book signing. The event will also feature Yakima Valley Libraries’ new book mobile, where adults and kids can check out books and sign up for free library cards with a photo ID. An ambulance team will offer "Stop the Bleed" and hands-only CPR training, as well as ambulance tours for kids. Enjoy free dinner with Native American, Filipino, and Mexican cuisine options, fun learning activities, and community resource booths.

For more information, contact Kendra Korynta at ESD 105 (kendra.korynta@esd105.org). You can also learn more by following our Facebook event: 

The City of Richland will host a grand opening and ribbon cutting of Fire Station 76 on Tuesday, September 17, at 11:00 a.m. 

The 10,850-square-foot state-of-the-art facility is located at 4307 Trowbridge Boulevard, just off Dallas Road and Interstate 82 in South Richland. The new station is designed to serve our growing community, which includes expanding housing developments, vibrant parks, bustling commercial areas, and a future school. With its proximity to Highway I-82, the station ensures quicker response times to emergencies in the area.

The facility also features dedicated space for police officers stationed in the area, enabling them to stay close by during their shifts.

We invite all residents and the media to celebrate this important addition to our community. Meet your neighbors, greet fire and emergency personnel, and enjoy refreshments while taking a self-guided tour of the new station. This is the sixth fire station in Richland and the fourth to include space for a police presence. 

More information can be found by visiting www.ci.richland.wa.us/projects.

EUGENE, Ore.—A Portland, Oregon man with prior convictions for narcotics, firearms, and interstate prostitution was sentenced to federal prison today for possessing methamphetamine after he was caught by federal law enforcement, while on supervised release, with narcotics and a firearm.

Anthony Ballard Jones, 42, was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release. 

“Every day the FBI works tirelessly to build strong cases to remove violent individuals like Anthony Jones from our communities,” said Douglas A. Olson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. “We appreciate the work of the U.S. Attorney's Office in pursuing justice in this case.”

According to court documents, in January 2022, FBI received reports from a concerned citizen that Jones, on federal supervised release from a prior conviction, was sending threatening text messages to individuals. During the investigation, FBI received reports from another concerned citizen that Jones was engaged in illegal activities. At the same time, Jones had fled federal supervision and the U.S. Probation Office in Oregon was rendered unable to track his whereabouts or monitor his conduct. 

On March 23, 2022, FBI special agents arrested Jones in Portland, Oregon. A firearm and multiple bags were seized from Jones’ vehicle. Later, investigators searched the bags and found ammunition, a knife, drug packaging materials and paraphernalia, and distribution quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl, as well as cocaine and heroin.

On April 21, 2022, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a three-count indictment charging Jones with possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On September 12, 2024, Jones pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. 

This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by William M. McLaren and Jeffrey S. Sweet, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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CLATSOP COUNTY, Oregon— Saddle Mountain State Natural Area near Seaside will close Oct. 14-18 for a hazard tree removal and tree thinning project to support public safety and forest health. 

The work will take place throughout the park, including along the main roadway, prompting a park closure to maintain public safety. Both the Grindy Creek (lower) and Lewis & Clark (upper) gates on Saddle Mountain Road will be locked.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) rangers and instructors will perform the work as part of an OPRD training for rangers who want to expand their skills. 

The park might reopen as early as Friday, Oct. 18. Please check the park webpage for updates. We thank visitors for their patience as we work to train our rangers and improve forest health at Saddle Mountain State Natural Area.

Salem – In 2025, Oregon employers, on average, will pay less for workers’ compensation coverage, the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) announced today. The decline in costs marks 12 years of average decreases in the pure premium rate – the base rate insurers use to determine how much employers must pay for medical costs and lost wages. 

Underpinning the cost decreases is the success of Oregon’s workers’ compensation system, which includes programs to control costs, maintain good worker benefits, ensure employers carry insurance for their workers, resolve disputes, and improve workplace safety and health.

The numbers illustrate positive, long-term trends, including:

• Employers, on average, would pay 91 cents per $100 of payroll for workers’ compensation costs in 2025, down from 93 cents in 2024, under a proposal by DCBS. That figure is referred to as loaded pure premium and covers workers’ compensation claims costs, assessments, and insurer profit and expenses.
• The pure premium rate would drop by an average 3.2 percent under the proposal. In fact, the pure premium will have declined by 48 percent from 2016 to 2025.

The reduction in costs is due to an improvement in loss experience in Oregon, according to the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI). NCCI is the U.S. rate-setting organization whose recommendation DCBS reviews as part of its annual public process to decide rates.

Employers’ total cost for workers’ compensation insurance includes the pure premium and insurer profit and expenses, plus the premium assessment. Employers also pay at least half of the Workers’ Benefit Fund assessment, which is a cents-per-hour-worked rate.

The decrease in the pure premium of 3.2 percent is an average, so an individual employer may see a larger or smaller decrease, no change, or even an increase, depending on the employer’s own industry, claims experience, and payroll. Also, the pure premium does not consider the varying expenses and profit of insurers or individual policyholders’ experience modification, if eligible. 

The stability of Oregon’s workers’ compensation system helps sustain the trend in lower costs. The system includes the Workers’ Compensation Division; Oregon OSHA; the Workers’ Compensation Board, which resolves disputes over the state’s workers’ compensation and workplace safety laws; the Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers, an independent advocate for workers on workers’ compensation and workplace safety and health; and the Small Business Ombudsman, an independent advocate for small business owners on workers’ compensation.

The premium assessment funds those successful programs. 

The premium assessment, which is a percentage of the workers’ compensation insurance premium employers pay, is added to the premium. It would remain at 9.8 percent in 2025, the same as 2024, under the DCBS proposal. In fact, 2025 would mark the fourth straight year the premium assessment remained at 9.8 percent.

“In light of rising costs everywhere, we are glad to provide employers and workers some relief through our proposed decisions today and the continued strength of our workers’ compensation system,” said Andrew Stolfi, DCBS director and insurance commissioner. “Working to prevent injuries, provide comprehensive benefits to injured workers, and keep costs low for employers is imperative for us to maintain a healthy and robust system.”

Meanwhile, the Workers’ Benefit Fund assessment funds return-to-work programs, provides increased benefits over time for workers who are permanently and totally disabled, and gives benefits to families of workers who die from workplace injuries or diseases. 

The fund’s revenue comes from a cents-per-hour-worked assessment. The assessment would remain at 2.0 cents per hour worked in 2025. It is the lowest rate since the inception of the cents-per-hour assessment in 1996.

The decrease in the pure premium will be effective Jan. 1, 2025, but employers will see the changes when they renew their policies in 2025.

Oregon’s workers’ compensation premium rates have ranked low nationally for many years. Oregon had the 10th least expensive rates in 2022, according to a nationally recognized biennial study conducted by DCBS. 

The public hearings for the workers’ compensation assessment and the Workers’ Benefit Fund assessment are Thursday, Sept. 19, at 3 p.m. and 4 p.m., respectively.

Written testimony will be accepted through 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024, by the Director's Office of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, 350 Winter St. NE, P.O. Box 14480, Salem, OR 97309-0405.

The following cost chart summarizes the changes: https://www.oregon.gov/DCBS/reports/cost/Documents/wc-summary.pdf

More information about Oregon workers’ compensation costs is at https://www.oregon.gov/DCBS/cost/Pages/index.aspx

The loaded pure premium includes insurer costs, known as expense loading factors. Historic figures are adjusted to reflect the 2024 mix of employment and payroll.

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About Oregon DCBS: The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. The department administers state laws and rules to protect consumers and workers in the areas of workers’ compensation, occupational safety and health, financial services, insurance, and building codes. Visit dcbs.oregon.gov.

Richland, WA - The City Manager of Richland is pleased to announce the selection of Martin Pilcher as the incoming Chief of Police, contingent upon the successful completion of a thorough background investigation in accordance with RCW 43.101.095. Pilcher, a distinguished law enforcement leader with over 20 years of experience, has been chosen to lead 

Pilcher currently serves as the Chief of Police in Woodburn, OR, where he oversees 40 sworn police officers, three Community Service Officers, and 7.5 professional staff members. Prior to becoming the Woodburn Chief in 2021, he served as the Deputy Chief since 2018. Pilcher also worked for the Portland Police Bureau as an Internal Affairs Investigator and spent most of his career with the Elk Grove Police Department in Elk Grove, CA. Pilcher possesses a master’s in organizational leadership from Norwich University and is a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Police from the Police Executive Research Forum.

“I am honored and excited to be selected to serve as the Chief of Police for Richland,” said Marty Pilcher. “My goal is to work collaboratively with the community, the department, and other city agencies to ensure that Richland remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone. I look forward to meeting with residents and working together to address our community’s needs.”

City Manager, Jon Amundson also expressed gratitude to all those who participated in the selection process, stating, "I would like to thank the other candidates who went through the interview process with us. In addition, I extend my appreciation to all those who participated in the public candidate forum, the multiple interview panels, and the staff who assisted with the logistics of this important process,” said Amundson.

“We are excited to welcome Martin Pilcher as our new Chief of Police,” said Amundson. “His extensive experience and dedication to community-oriented policing make him an excellent fit for our city. We are confident that his leadership will continue to strengthen our police department and support our commitment to public safety.”

The background investigation will encompass a comprehensive review of Pilcher’s professional and personal history, ensuring his suitability for this critical leadership role. The process is expected to be completed within one month.

Upon successful completion of the background investigation, Chief Pilcher will assume the duties of Chief of Police, succeeding Interim Chief, Craig Meidl who served in this capacity since April 2024.

More information can be found by visiting www.ci.richland.wa.us/PoliceChief.

Institute celebrates its fifth year, and more than 700 new supportive housing units developed or planned.

SALEM, OR - Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) and the Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) today announced seven innovative affordable housing projects that emerged from the fifth Oregon Supportive Housing Institute (SHI). The new projects contribute to the more than 700 new permanent supportive housing units that have been developed or planned as a result of five years of the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute.

“Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) is a proven strategy to increase housing stability and improve the health of people who have experienced chronic homelessness,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “Housing and health are the foundations of everyday life that we all depend on, and OHCS has a responsibility to help make that possible for all people, regardless of what they have been through. The Supportive Housing Institute is five years into supporting the readiness of community leaders to deliver results that improve people’s lives and strengthen communities. We are prioritizing people in our efforts to strengthen Oregon.”

OHCS and CSH collaborate to operate the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute designed to accelerate affordable and supportive housing development locally. Teams in Oregon consisting of developers, property managers, service providers, people with lived experience, and other critical project partners, apply to participate and receive intensive training over five months on navigating the process of developing permanent supportive housing. CSH provides individualized technical assistance and support to plan each project.

“CSH joins OHCS in congratulating our newest cohort of Institute graduates. We are inspired by their commitment to advancing supportive housing as an evidence-based approach to helping people who face complex barriers to housing in Oregon find stability and thrive. This is not easy work, and we are proud of all our Institute alums over the past five years for leading with creativity and innovation that has lasting impacts across our communities," said Rae Trotta, Senior Program Manager at CSH.

The planned projects are:

• Bridges to Change, Portland – permanent supportive housing for people experiencing long-term homelessness and who are impacted by substance use disorders or mental health disorders, with a focus on individuals identifying as LGBTQ+.
• Home First, Manzanita – permanent supportive housing for families experiencing long-term homelessness.
• Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon, Portland – permanent supportive housing and supportive housing for families experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and substance abuse disorders.
• New Narrative, Beaverton – permanent supportive housing for people experiencing long-term homelessness, disabilities, and mental illness.
• Our Just Future, Portland – permanent supportive housing for people experiencing long-term homelessness, who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, and/or LGBTQ+, unsheltered veterans, families, and immigrants.
• Path Home, Portland – permanent supportive housing for families with children experiencing homelessness with a special focus on families identifying as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.
• Housing Authority of Washington County, Forest Grove – permanent supportive housing for people experiencing long-term homelessness.

“CSH gratefully thanks and acknowledges Oregon Housing and Community Services for their ongoing partnership and support of the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute. Their partnership has been integral to the Institute’s success and for making quality housing and services possible for hundreds of families and individuals in Oregon,” said Deborah De Santis, President and CEO at CSH.

To date, the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute has successfully graduated 43 teams who have opened 339 new PSH units with an additional 360 units currently in development. Watch this video to learn more about the impact of the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute. 

About Oregon Supportive Housing Institute 
The Oregon Supportive Housing Institute (SHI) is a signature initiative of Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) in collaboration with and support from Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS). Since its start in the state, 43 teams have participated in the Oregon SHI that has resulted in 339 new PSH units, with more than 360 PSH units in development. The Oregon SHI has had diverse statewide representation from every region in Oregon, including projects from Central Oregon (Bend and Warm Springs), Coastal Regions (Astoria, Coos Bay/North Bend, Manzanita, Toledo), Corvallis, Eastern Oregon (Ontario and Lakeview), Eugene, Portland and greater Portland Metro (Gladstone, Happy Valley, Newberg, Tualatin/Tigard), Salem, and Southern Oregon (Medford/Grants Pass, Roseburg). 

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. 

About Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH)
The Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) is the national champion for supportive housing, demonstrating its potential to improve the lives of very vulnerable individuals and families by helping communities create more than 385,000 real homes for people who desperately need them. CSH engages broader systems to fully invest in solutions that drive equity, help people thrive, and harness data to generate concrete and sustainable results. Visit us at www.csh.org.

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

Notice of Meeting Cancellation

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting scheduled for September 25th, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.
 

The next Applicant Review Committee meeting is scheduled for October 23rd, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.
 

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is asking visitors to help slow the spread of the destructive emerald ash borer by choosing certified heat-treated firewood or firewood harvested within 10 miles of their destination to avoid bringing the invasive insect into state parks. 

OPRD also asks visitors to leave any ash, olive and white fringe tree firewood and materials at home.

The invasive emerald ash borer is considered the most destructive forest pest in North America, killing hundreds of millions of ash trees across the country. It has been detected in four Oregon counties: Washington, Yamhill, Marion and Clackamas, prompting a permanent quarantine in those counties. 

“So far, emerald ash borer has not been detected in Oregon State Parks, and we would like to keep it that way for as long as possible,” said OPRD’s Natural Resource Coordinator and Ecologist Noel Bacheller. 

The invasive insect can only travel about 10 miles on its own during its brief adult life, but humans can spread it hundreds of miles through infested firewood and other tree materials. Once an ash tree is infested, it has little chance of survival even if it’s otherwise healthy. The insect’s larvae consume the inner bark, causing ash trees to decline and eventually die.

The emerald ash borer threatens to wipe out Oregon's ash tree population as it has in other states around the country. But visitors can help slow the spread to protect Oregon’s ash trees and forests for as long as possible. 

Slowing the spread will give parks and landowners the chance to respond including underplanting with resistant tree species that can quickly fill in when ash trees decline. It will also soften the impact of the insect on forest health overall.

Help protect Oregon's trees and forests by following these firewood tips:

• Buy firewood local to your campsite: Choose firewood harvested within 10 miles of your destination or buy certified heat-treated firewood. This helps reduce the spread of invasive insects, including emerald ash borer, and diseases.
• Avoid transporting restricted wood: Do not bring ash, olive, or white fringe tree materials into any Oregon State Park even if it’s within the same quarantine area. When in doubt about the tree species, leave it out.
• Stay informed about quarantines and regulations: Learn more at Oregon Department of Agriculture’s website, including proper disposal of ash tree material, and insect and tree identification at the Oregon Invasive Species Council website. 

Ash trees grow in riparian areas along rivers, streams and other low-elevation bodies of water in Western Oregon. The loss of ash trees could have a significant impact on riparian ecology including loss of shade, increased water temperatures and decline in fish health. 

Learn more about ash trees and the emerald ash borer on our website, including emerald ash borer activity pages with lessons for all ages that show how to recognize and prevent the spread of this invasive insect.

Bend Fire & Rescue responded to report of smoke off of Bear Creek Rd and Bennett. The first arriving crews could see smoke coming from a brush and tree’d area about 300 yards south of Bear Creek. After making access on foot, they were able to identify a 1/4 acre fire along the canal.

Alfalfa fire department responded as well to assist. A total of three brush engines, one structural engine, two water tenders and assorted command rigs are on scene. The fire appears to been caused by a lightning strike to a tree in the area. It appears to been smoldering and hidden by the layer of smoke in the area.

At the same time at this fire was being dispatched, Bend Fire & Rescue was dispatch to reported illegal open burn at Butler Market Rd and Silvis. Crews found the occupants burning yard debris in a large pile. The occupants were ordered to extinguish the fire and resources were diverted to the brushfire. Both of these incidents are a good reminder that we are not out of fire season yet. Despite the cooler weather heading our way it is still very dry out and susceptible to fire. All debris burning is banned currently. We do not anticipate debris burning for sometime. Check with your local fire agency before igniting any sort of fire to be sure it is allowed.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal superseding indictment was unsealed Monday in the District of Oregon charging an Arizona man and three associates for conspiring with one another and others to devise and carry out a scheme that attempted to defraud the U.S. Small Business Administration out of at least $178 million in loans intended to help small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eric Karnezis, 43, of Sedona, Arizona, is charged in the 23-count superseding indictment with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, along with co-defendants Lynisha Wells, 47, and Nikkia Bennett, 43, both of Chula Vista, California, and Fredrico Williams, 48, of San Diego.

According to the superseding indictment, from January 2021 and continuing until at least March 2022, Karnezis carried out a scheme whereby he conspired with recruiters, including Williams, to gather fraudulent business information from customers, including Wells and Bennett, and used the information to submit fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). To facilitate the scheme, Karnezis and his co-conspirators created fictious documents to support their fraudulent loan applications, including false payroll information and tax documents.

In total, Karnezis submitted or caused to be submitted at least 1,300 PPP applications, which together attempted to obtain at least $178 million from SBA. Approximately $105 million in loans were funded in response to these fraudulent applications.

On September 6, 2024, following his arrest in Sedona the day prior, Karnezis made his initial appearance in federal court in the District of Arizona and pleaded not guilty. In a detention hearing held today, Karnezis was released on conditions pending his arraignment in District of Oregon on September 24, 2024.

Bennett and Wells made their first appearances and were arraigned in the District of Oregon on August 23 and August 29, 2024, respectively. Both were released on conditions pending a three-day jury trial scheduled to begin on February 11, 2025. Williams will be arraigned in the District of Oregon on September 20, 2024.

Conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering are punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison, three years’ supervised release, and fines of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gains or losses resulting from the offense.

This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG), IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS:CI), the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). It is being prosecuted by Meredith Bateman and Robert Trisotto, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Since January 2021, more than 50 people have been charged in the District of Oregon for their roles in fraud schemes targeting federal COVID-19 relief programs. Together, these defendants attempted to steal more than $903 million in federal funds. 38 individuals have been convicted for their crimes and sentenced to a combined total of 631 months in federal prison and 1,194 months of probation and/or supervised release.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

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DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. 10 Sept. 2024 – On Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at 6:07 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy. 138E near milepost 18, approximately one mile east of Glide, in Douglas County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a red Yamaha motorcycle, operated by Thomas Lee Bailey (38) of Idleyld Park, was traveling westbound on Hwy. 138E when an eastbound white Jeep Cherokee, operated by Randolph Lee Belloir (66) of Roseburg, turned left in front of the motorcycle. The two vehicles collided head-on in the westbound lane. 

The operator of the motorcycle (Bailey) was declared deceased at the scene. 

The Jeep Cherokee operator (Belloir) was not injured and cooperated with the law enforcement investigation. 

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

Oregon State Police was assisted by the Glide Fire Department, the National Park Service, 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 protects Oregon's people, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon. 

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) and Oregon AARP are hosting back-to-back Scam Jam seminars in Bend on Sept. 12 at the Larkspur Community Center and in Sisters on Sept. 13 at the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Station. 

Joining DFR and AARP will be representatives from the Federal Trade Commission, local police officers, and others. Attendees will hear from experts and learn how to spot scams and gain prevention tips and tools to protect against fraud. Last year, Oregonians lost nearly $10 million to frauds and scams. 

“We are excited to have back-to-back session in central Oregon to bring fraud awareness to more people,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “It’s through these conversations that we can educate and empower Oregonians to recognize the signs of fraud and take steps to protect themselves.”

The Bend event will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Larkspur Community Center, 1600 SE Reed Market Road, Bend, OR 97702. The Sisters event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the fire station at 301 S. Elm Street, Sisters, OR 97759.

The event is free and registration is not required but is encouraged:

• Register for the Bend Scam Jam 
• Register for the Sisters Scam Jam

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man, who for more than a decade claimed to be a successful foreign exchange currency trader to solicit millions of dollars in investments, was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for wire fraud.

William Bennington, 53, was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. 

According to court documents, from March 2012 until October 2022, Bennington knowingly and intentionally carried out a scheme to defraud victims out of more than $2 million. In order to solicit investments, Bennington claimed to be a wealthy foreign exchange currency trader that had written a proprietary trading algorithm, which he alleged was the source of his wealth.  

Over the course of the scheme, Bennington promised annual returns of up to 80 percent and repayment terms as short as six months. He also created a fake website and fabricated monthly statements falsely showing victims were earning significant returns. Instead of investing his victims’ money as promised, Bennington spent it on extravagant trips, a golf simulator, and personal expenses such as rent, vehicle leases and credit card payments. 

On October 17, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a five-count indictment charging Bennington with wire fraud. Later, on April 4, 2024, Bennington pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.

This case was investigated by the FBI, and was prosecuted by Robert Trisotto, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

# # #

SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized resources to the Service Fire in Wheeler County overnight as the fire, pushed by gusty winds and critical fire conditions, rapidly grew Monday. The lightning-sparked fire is estimated to be 15,000 acres as of Monday night. The Wheeler County Sheriff has issued levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices. You can find the latest on evacuations here.  
 
Over the weekend, two task forces assigned to the Shoe Fly Fire were reassigned to the Service Fire through Immediate Response. Two additional task forces from Marion and Clatsop counties arrived Monday night, bringing the total to four task forces. 

The OSFM will coordinate structural protection resources with the Oregon Department of Forestry Incident Management Team 2, which is managing the Service Fire. 

“We are anticipating cooler weather over the next week and that should decrease fire behavior. The OSFM continues to use every tool at our disposal to protect people, property, and critical infrastructure from wildfire,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “This has been a challenging summer for our hardworking firefighters, and we encourage everyone to remain vigilant.” 

A community meeting for the Service Fire is planned for Wednesday, September 11 at the Fossil Elementary School Gymnasium at 6:30 p.m. Please use the west entrance. 

This is the 17^th time the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked this year. 

About the Emergency Conflagration Act  

The Emergency Conflagration Act is invoked by Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, allowing the state fire marshal to mobilize state resources to wildfires to protect life and property.  
  
The conflagration act is invoked following ORS 476.510-476.610 when Governor Kotek determines threats to life, safety, and property exist because of the fire, and the threats exceed the capabilities of local firefighting personnel and equipment.   

Spokane, Washington - A Federal Grand Jury has returned an indictment charging Darren Bowannie, age 34, with Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law. Bowannie made his first appearance in Federal Court on Monday, September 9, 2024. 

Bowannie was employed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs as a lead correctional officer. According to the indictment, Bowannie transported individuals who were in the custody of the Spokane Tribe of Indians and Bureau of Indian Affairs to and from the Colville Tribal Correctional Facility in Nespelem, Washington. 

The indictment alleges that on February 9, 2024, Bowannie, who was working as a correctional officer for the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) at the time, was transporting an individual from Wellpinit, Washington to Nespelem, Washington. In his role as a correctional officer, Bowannie’s duties included prisoner transport to and from the BIA’s jail in Wellpinit. During the transport, Bowannie allegedly threatened and sexually assaulted the individual he was transporting. If convicted, Bowannie faces a sentence of up to life in prison and up to 5 years of supervised release.

“Our society places significant trust in law enforcement. Every day we rely on law enforcement officers who put themselves at risk to keep our communities safe and uphold their oath to protect and serve. When law enforcement fails to uphold this trust, my office will carefully investigate allegations of wrongdoing and seek justice to reestablish trust, protect victims, and to keep our communities safe and strong.”

The FBI is investigating the case. Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Ellis and Tim M. Durkin are prosecuting the case. 

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

UPDATE: Renk is believed to be traveling in a converted Ford Ambulance, which is now painted two-tone white over gray and has an Oregon license plate of 353JWK. 

--Suspect wanted for sex crimes in Oregon and Alabama

WASCO COUNTY, Ore. 9 Sept. 2024 – Oregon State Police and the Mobile (Alabama) Police Department are seeking the public’s help to locate Adam Renk (39) who is wanted in both states for sex crimes against child victims. 

On June 21, 2024, OSP detectives responded to a sexual abuse disclosure made by a minor. The minor disclosed Renk as the perpetrator. Renk has since been indicted on multiple crimes against a child victim under the age of 12. He is charged with Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the First Degree, Sodomy in the First Degree, and Sexual Abuse in the First Degree.

As part of their investigation, OSP detectives learned Renk had been charged in another case involving a minor victim in Mobile, Alabama. The Alabama charges include Child Sexual Abuse and Torture involving an 11-year-old victim. The victims in the two states are not related. Alabama law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Marshals Service are attempting to locate Renk who posted bond in Alabama and was released from pre-trial custody. 

Renk was last seen leaving Alabama on August 7, 2024. He has ties to Oregon and Wasco County. He is believed to be traveling in a converted Ford Ambulance that is now painted two-toned white over gray. Renk is a white male, 6 ft. 1 in. tall, 175 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. 

Anyone with information about Renk’s whereabouts or information about possible additional victims is asked to contact the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office at 541-506-2580 or OSP Detective Cassie Bantz through dispatch at 800-442-0776 or by dialing OSP (677) on a mobile phone. 
  

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

SALEM, Ore. — State and federal agencies are working together to bring air monitors and temporary air cleaners to schools in Harney County, which has experienced the most days of unhealthy air of any Oregon county due to wildfire smoke this year. 

The air cleaners are helping clear smoke from classrooms and other indoor school spaces when students are inside the buildings.

“Our county is large, and we have these tiny rural schools in every corner,” Kelly Singhose, Harney County’s interim public health co-director, explained. “To make decisions about their students’ exposure to smoke, they need air quality data from right where they are.”

To do that, the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) provided six air monitors in the county, quickly increasing the total number of USFS monitors deployed in the county to seven — “resources we couldn’t have gotten on our own,” Singhose said. The USFS air monitors are placed throughout the county.

The air cleaner and air monitor distribution effort developed during interagency wildfire smoke coordination calls the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Air Program and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Health Security, Preparedness and Response Section (HSPR) host. Other agencies represented on the calls include Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), Oregon Department of Human Services Office of Resilience and Emergency Management (ODHS-OREM), Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), and local and tribal health. 
 

“After Harney County made the ask July 31, everyone chipped in to make this happen,” said Gabriela Goldfarb, OHA’s Environmental Public Health Section manager. In addition to the USFS air monitors, ODHS provided four large air cleaners, and DEQ is providing $5,000 in grant funding, she said.
 

Such collaborations have become increasingly routine summertime activities, with multiple counties benefiting from air quality advisories DEQ issues. Still, other communities, such as Lane and Josephine counties, received resource support in previous years during severe smoke events. While home air filters have become more accessible to communities suffering from poor air quality, funding, staffing and the need to balance responses to multiple climate-related events, such as extreme heat and wildfire smoke, continue to be challenges, making coordination critical.
 

Harney County placed two of the four air scrubbers at the local hospital and a senior center that became a cleaner air center. As the first day of school approached, the health department arranged for schools to receive the remaining two scrubbers, which can clean large spaces, like school gymnasiums. The county has procured additional filters through a public-private partnership. 
 

The interagency wildfire smoke calls are intended to foster coordination on development of air quality advisories using knowledge from federal, state and local agencies. Information about air quality and advisories can be found on the Oregon Smoke Blog.
 

Oregon boosts emergency preparedness with new evacuation software

Oregon Emergency Mangers already seeing significant reduction in time to communicate evacuation information. 

Salem, Ore. - In honor of National Preparedness Month, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is excited to announce a new contract that will provide advanced evacuation software to all of Oregon’s 36 counties and nine Tribes. The software, from Genasys Inc., will help manage emergency evacuations more effectively across the state.

As Oregon deals with more frequent and severe disasters, it’s essential to have a clear plan for evacuations and support services. While law enforcement handles the immediate evacuation of people, the ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management (OREM) works with local communities to help identify people who need evacuation assistance and ensure people are evacuated to a location that meets their needs.  

“Even well-prepared communities face challenges with evacuations, especially when multiple areas are affected. We’re thrilled to offer this new software to all our counties and Tribes,” said Ed Flick, Director of OREM. “This tool will help emergency managers make quick and informed decisions to keep everyone safe. Over the last week the tool was used to coordinate evacuations for the Rail Ridge Fire in Grant, Crook and Wheeler Counties, which is Oregon’s top priority wildfire. National Preparedness Month is a great time for everyone to review their own emergency plans and supplies. For tips, check out Ready.gov.” 

The Genasys EVAC software helps with planning and managing evacuations. It allows emergency services to quickly create and update evacuation plans, run realistic simulations, and respond faster during an emergency.

Nick Vora, Emergency Manager for Union County, shared his enthusiasm: “Changing, exporting, and adding evacuation zones for alerts used to be slow and complicated. While there are many great mapping tools out there, they often made it time-consuming to update evacuation zones and get them ready for emergency alerts. It could take 15 to 30 minutes to make these changes and load them into the alert system. With Genasys, however, the process is much faster. You can select and adjust an area and get it ready for alerts in just a few minutes. This quick turnaround makes managing emergency alerts much easier and more efficient.”

“Genasys Protect was instrumental in notifying community members of evacuations during the Falls and Telephone Fires in Harney County. When time is of the essence, being able to instantly notify community members of updated evacuation levels is crucial. We loved the ease of use and the ability to train new staff members on how to use it under one minute. This is an essential tool during wildfires,” said Melinda Todd, Harney County Emergency Manager.

Ken Kehmna, a retired fire chief and advisor at Genasys, added, “After Oregon’s severe fires in 2020, we tested this software in Deschutes and Jackson counties. Both counties saw great results and adopted the software, leading to its statewide use.”

Michael Smith, Senior Vice President at Genasys Protect, emphasized the benefits: “EVAC’s planning and real-time communication features are vital for managing emergencies in any community, from small towns to large cities.”

This new software represents a significant step forward in making sure Oregon is ready for emergencies and can respond quickly and effectively.

About the ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management

ODHS holds four distinct roles through its Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, all of which reduce the impact of disasters on people.

• Mass care:  Planning for and supporting people in the early stage and immediate aftermath of emergencies. Our work includes things like coordinating evacuation assistance, the distribution of life-sustaining goods and services, including hydration, feeding, sheltering, reunification, and distribution of emergency supplies. 
• Social services recovery:  Helping people and social services agencies recover. Our Social Services Recovery Coordinators work with survivors and their families to identify barriers to recovery, make a plan to address those barriers, and support the survivors on their journey. Our role also includes helping local social services agencies that may be impacted by the disasters to return to full functioning as soon as possible. 
• Continuity of operations:  Ensuring communities’ ongoing access to ODHS services. This includes making sure our offices are open and essential services continue, as well as supporting the agency programs and the case managers who ensure the safety of the tens of thousands of Oregonians who may need extra and early help in an emergency. 
• Legislatively directed resilience work:  Warming, cooling and cleaner air shelters; water distribution and resilience hubs. These situations don’t fit what’s traditionally been considered emergencies, but they can have significant impacts on people. The Legislature made OREM the lead for this type of work to help people. 

Across all these roles, ODHS develops and relies on partnerships and coordination with public and private organizations at the local and regional levels and with our state and Tribal Nation partners. 

FAIRVIEW TRUST MAKES BIGGEST INVESTMENT TO DATE - Community Fund Infuses Major Grants in Projects that Serve People Living with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

PORTLAND, Ore. - The Fairview Trust has distributed more than $5 million in grants across Oregon to build homes and advocacy programs that serve people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The funding for 11 organizations will expand integrated housing opportunities and improve the lives of the people they serve.

Collectively, the grants represent the Trust’s single largest investment since it was created after the closure of the Fairview Training Center in 2000. Funding was allocated this year through the Oregon Office of Developmental Disabilities Services. The Fairview Trust is a Community Advised Fund within Oregon Community Foundation, governed by an Advisory Board.

“As a provider of services promoting and supporting enhanced independence for people living with IDD, I am honored to be part of the expanding integrated housing initiatives supported by the Fairview Trust and Oregon Community Foundation,” said Terri H. Silvis, Ph.D., CEO of Horizon Project, Inc. in Umatilla County, Oregon and chair of the Fairview Trust Advisory Board. “This funding is having a significant and expanding impact on our communities. Together, we are forging new partnerships and furthering the work begun with the closure of the Fairview Training Center and other institutions. We collectively benefit from the talents and contributions shared by our neighbors experiencing IDD.”

“Once they are completed, the projects will have an immediate impact on residents and clients,” said Diane Scottaline, Executive Director of The Arc of Benton County.

“Funding from the Fairview Trust will allow us to construct 2 training units as hands-on, real-life settings for community living skills for adults with developmental disabilities,” said Scottaline.

“Accessibility features will be designed for the broadest utility and introduced after construction to show students how they can modify a space for their unique needs. The 6-8 program students will have one-on-one support and the use of technology for task prompts and instructions. The Fairview Funding has expedited this important program, bringing possibilities of increased community access to people with IDD for many years to come.”

OCF Program Officer Michael R. Oreste, who manages the partnership with Fairview Trust for OCF, added, "It was very exciting to collaborate with the committee members of the Fairview Trust to grant statewide dollars for an often-overlooked population of Oregonians. Being able to partner with experts in the field, while providing critical services for our community members, epitomizes the mission and values of Oregon Community Foundation.”

In addition to integrated housing opportunities, the grants also support advocacy programs, including Partners in Policymaking® by Disability Rights Oregon.

“People with disabilities and family members have been the driving force behind closing the Fairview Training Center, creating a service delivery system that is the envy of the nation, and developing paths to employment for everyone with disabilities in Oregon,” said Jake Cornett, CEO of Disability Rights Oregon. “Over eight months, we’ll work alongside national leaders to teach more than 20 participants leadership skills while developing strong relationships with elected officials and others who make policy decisions about services and supports we rely on. This investment in tomorrow's disability advocates will pay dividends long into the future."

The Fairview Trust originates from the closure and sale of the Fairview Training Center, a state-run institution for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities that operated from 1908 until 2000. A U.S. Justice Department investigation unveiled life-threatening conditions at the facility. This finding, coupled with a federal civil rights lawsuit, catalyzed its closure, marking an end to nearly a century of institutionalization.

The Fairview Trust was initially overseen by the Oregon Department of Human Services but was restructured under the Oregon Community Foundation in 2019, guided by a newly constituted Advisory Board.

Integrated Housing Grants

Sammy's Place - Thompson Springs Project 
Location: Nehalem, Oregon Grant 
Amount: $744,325 
Description: An affordable housing community with 13 units to support independent living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Horizon Project Inc. - Theater Lane Apartments 
Location: Hermiston, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $800,000 
Description: A 22-unit integrated housing complex reserving up to five units of affordable, accessible housing to support independent living for people with IDD.

Northwest Housing Alternatives - Grace Housing 
Location: Northeast Portland, Oregon Grant 
Amount: $250,000 
Description: Grace Housing will bring approximately 100 new apartment homes to a half city block in Northeast Portland, 20 of which will be reserved for people with IDD and rented at well below market-rates.

Sabin Community Development Corporation - Avenue Redevelopment 
Location: Portland, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $500,000 
Description: An early-stage planning grant for a 78-unit net-zero energy building with 12 integrated units for people with IDD, incorporating both universal design and sustainability features.

Living Opportunities - Bennett Street Housing 
Location: Medford, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $147,500 
Description: An early-stage planning grant to develop 5 to 10 housing units to promote independent living and community integration for people with IDD.

Our Home, Inclusive Community Collaborative - Cathedral Park Cohousing 
Location: Portland, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $250,000 
Description: A 23-unit cohousing-inspired development with shared common spaces, fostering community interaction and independent living for people with IDD.

McMinnville Area Habitat for Humanity - Aspire Community Development 
Location: McMinnville, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $504,225 
Description: Two fully accessible homes for individuals with IDD and complete an inclusive community playground to promote integration.

Advocates for Life Skills and Opportunities (ALSO) - ALSO Apartments
Location: Gresham, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $550,000 
Description: This project will build a 39-unit residential building featuring Universal Design with up to 10 units reserved for individuals with IDD.

The Arc of Benton County - SLLEDD (Smart Living, Learning and Earning with Developmental Disabilities) Location: Corvallis, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $750,000 
Description: The Arc of Benton County will construct two training home units and renovate a community center to equip young adults with IDD with skills for independent living and community integration.

Advocacy Grants

Fair Housing Council of Oregon 
Grant Amount: $275,000
Description: This project will expand access to housing for people with IDD by advocating for policies that eliminate housing barriers. 

Disability Rights Oregon 
Grant Amount: $300,000 
Description: DRO and its partners will implement a leadership training series for self-advocates and parents of individuals with IDD to build advocacy skills and promote systemic change in affordable housing policy. 

The Fairview Trust is committed to promoting community integration and independent living for individuals with IDD. These projects exemplify our mission to create inclusive, supportive environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these initiatives will have on communities across Oregon. For more information about the Fairview Trust and our grant programs, please visit fairviewtrust.org. 

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF strengthens communities in every county in Oregon through grantmaking, scholarships and research. In 2023, OCF distributed $225 million in grants and scholarships. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, please visit oregoncf.org. 

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MILTON-FREEWATER, Ore. – The J.L. Elam Bank is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places. Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) recommended the nomination at their June 2024 meeting for its significance as one of the few examples of Classical Revival architecture in Milton-Freewater. The National Park Service, which maintains the National Register of Historic Places, accepted this nomination in August 2024.

Constructed in 1906, expanded in 1908, and remodeled with a new façade in 1920, the J.L. Elam Bank is located amongst other commercial buildings on Main Street in downtown Milton-Freewater. The one-story, rectangular building has painted, smooth concrete block walls and displays many character-defining features of the Classical Revival style, including a flat roof with decorative balustrade on the parapet, flat arch lintels above windows and doors, symmetrical entrance with columns, smooth exterior walls, and an entablature. The building is one of the few and most notable examples of the Classical Revival commercial style in Milton-Freewater, and it reflects the evolution of the Classical Revival style in rural communities.

The J.L. Elam Bank was originally constructed to house the Freewater Branch of the Walla Walla-based Elam Bank. At the time of its opening, it was the first and only bank in the town of Freewater, and it had been much anticipated by Freewater residents; however, it closed after only two years in operation. The property has had many other commercial occupants over its 118 years, including law offices, doctor offices, post office, a second bank, an insurance agency, a restaurant, and presently a winery tasting room. 

The National Register is maintained by the National Park Service under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Properties listed in the National Register are:

• Recognized as significant to the nation, state, or community;
• Considered in the planning of federal or federally-assisted projects;
• Eligible for federal and state tax benefits;
• Qualify for historic preservation grants when funds are available;
• Eligible for leniency in meeting certain building code requirements;
• Subject to local laws pertaining to the conservation and protection of historic resources.

State law in Oregon requires local governments to offer a minimal level of protection for properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places; the decisions about how to accomplish that goal reside with local governments, which also have the authority to create and regulate local historic districts and landmarks.

More information about the National Register and recent Oregon listings are online at oregonheritage.org (under the heading “Designate”).

SALEM, Ore. — Governor Tina Kotek and Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon hosted a formal demobilization ceremony in Salem, Oregon for the unit members of the Oregon National Guard’s A (-) 641st Aviation on Sept. 9, 2024.

During their mobilization they provided fixed-wing air capabilities in support of the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa and AFRICOM from Djibouti and throughout the AFRICOM Theater of operations.

“Just over a year ago we gathered to see off an exceptional group of aviators as they embarked on a critical mission to the Horn of Africa,” said Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold to the returning Soldiers during the demobilization ceremony. “Today we come together once again –  not to say goodbye but to celebrate your safe return and extraordinary service.”

Gov. Kotek welcomed the member’s home and praised their dedication to the yearlong deployment with family and co-workers in attendance. “It was last July that you first mobilized here, and I reminded you to come home safe from your mobilization, and as this was my first mobilization ceremony as Governor and your guidon was in my office while you were gone.”

"With your dedication to duty, I am truly humbled by your commitment to serve. I want to welcome you back, and hopefully, you can now catch up on some of the activities you missed while you were away," said Gov. Kotek.

Prior to their overseas mission, the unit spent nearly two-weeks of specialized training at Ft. Bliss, Texas. The unit has a long history of deploying overseas supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007 and later deploying to support Operation New Dawn in Iraq in 2010 while some members of the unit deployed to Afghanistan to support Operation Enduring Freedom. Their most recent mobilization was in 2017 when they deployed to Kuwait to support Operation Enduring Freedom followed by Operation Spartan Shield.
 

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Released Photos:

240909-Z-CH590-1025: Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, delivers his remarks during the demobilization ceremony held at the Oregon State Capital, Salem, Oregon for the A (-) 641st Aviation, Sept. 9, 2024. The unit provided fixed-wing air capabilities in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa and AFRICOM from Djibouti and throughout the AFRICOM Theater of operations during their yearlong mobilization. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240909-Z-CH590-1029: Oregon Governor Tina Kotek delivers her remarks during the demobilization ceremony held in Salem, Oregon for the A (-) 641st Aviation, Sept. 9, 2024. The unit provided fixed-wing air capabilities in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa and AFRICOM from Djibouti and throughout the AFRICOM Theater of operations during their yearlong mobilization. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240909-Z-CH590-1053: Members of the Official Party, which includes Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, along with Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, and Capt. Christopher Hall, stand at attention at the beginning of the demobilization ceremony held for A (-) 641st Aviation, while unit members are formally recognized on Sept. 9, 2024 in Salem, Oregon. The unit provided fixed-wing air capabilities in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa and AFRICOM from Djibouti and throughout the AFRICOM Theater of operations during their yearlong mobilization. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240909-Z-CH590-1054: Oregon Governor Tina Kotek presents the framed unit guidon to Capt. Christopher Hall assigned to the Oregon National Guard’s A (-) 641st Aviation during the demobilization ceremony held at the Oregon State Capital, Salem, Oregon on Sept. 9, 2024. The unit provided fixed-wing air capabilities in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa and AFRICOM from Djibouti and throughout the AFRICOM Theater of operations during their yearlong mobilization. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240909-Z-CH590-1056: Oregon Governor Tina Kotek receives a folded Oregon State Flag from Capt. Christopher Hall that was used by the Oregon National Guard’s A (-) 641st Aviation during their deployment. The unit had held their demobilization ceremony at the Oregon State Capital, Salem, Oregon on Sept. 9, 2024. The unit provided fixed-wing air capabilities in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa and AFRICOM from Djibouti and throughout the AFRICOM Theater of operations during their yearlong mobilization. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240909-Z-CH590-1065: Oregon Governor Tina Kotek (center) and Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon (far left), pause for a group photo with members of the Oregon National Guard’s A (-) 641st Aviation at the conclusion of their demobilization ceremony held at the Oregon State Capital, Salem, Oregon on Sept. 9, 2024. The unit provided fixed-wing air capabilities in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa and AFRICOM from Djibouti and throughout the AFRICOM Theater of operations during their yearlong mobilization. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

Released Video:

https://dvidshub.net/r/di3cgb

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) seeks proposals through OregonBuys for a grant of up to $566,848 to provide culturally responsive domestic violence and sexual assault services to survivors. The grant comes from the Survivor Investment Partnership (SIP) within ODHS’ Self-Sufficiency Programs.

The funds provided through this grant must be spent by June 30, 2025, for the 2023-2025 biennium. Funding for the 2025-2027 biennium, if approved by the Oregon Legislature, could be added through an amendment with the option to renew up to a cumulative maximum of 6 years. 

To be considered for evaluation, an application must demonstrate how the applicant meets all requirements: 

• Must not already be a grantee of SIP funds.
• Must be a 501c3 Oregon nonprofit providing domestic violence and sexual assault services to survivors in Oregon, relocating to Oregon, or relocating out of Oregon. 
• Must be a culturally responsive / culturally specific organization not currently contracted with the agency to provide domestic violence and sexual assault services, or
  • Must be a current domestic violence sexual assault organization contracted with the agency looking to use these funds to expand services for an identified culturally specific population, or
  • Must be a qualified victims services program, with certified advocates per ORS 40.264.

To learn more about this opportunity refer to Bid Solicitation: S-10000-00009881 in OregonBuys. 

A webinar will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Pacific Time to provide information to potential applicants about SIP, provide a description of the partnership, explain the grant process and answer any questions applicants may have. Applicants should go to OregonBuys for details about the webinar and how to join. A copy of the information posted as of Sept. 9, 2024, is provided below as a courtesy.

• Webinar Link
• Meeting ID: 161 195 4636
• Passcode: 209672

The deadline to apply for the grant is Sept. 24, 2024, 3 p.m. Pacific Time. 

All communications related to any provision of the Request for Grant Application must be directed to Sharon Landis who is the single point of contact. Applicants with questions should submit them to Sharon via email at on.M.Landis@odhsoha.oregon.gov">Sharon.M.Landis@odhsoha.oregon.gov. 

About the Survivor Investment Partnership

SIP joins together the Nine Tribes of Oregon, culturally responsive domestic violence and sexual assault organizations, and co-located advocacy agencies to provide services to survivors of domestic violence. The intent of the partnership is to increase the accessibility of services and meaningful financial support to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and other communities that have been marginalized.

SIP funds are General Funds which allow for flexibility and autonomy on how the grant recipient provide services and assistance that best meet the needs of each domestic violence and sexual assault survivor they assist. The funds will be used to support staffing for survivor services and to offer financial assistance to vulnerable populations for resources including but not limited to housing, legal fees, immigration fees, penalties, lock changes, cameras, rental assistance, moving costs, plane tickets, license fees, housing application, emergency hotel and other supports that can be directly related to desired outcomes. 

About the Oregon Department of Human Services

The mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity. 

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An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Edward Randolph Johnston, died the evening of September 7, 2024. Johnston was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Johnston entered DOC custody on February 2, 2012, from Lincoln and Marion Counties with an earliest release date of August 2, 2041. Johnston was 77 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of approximately 12,000 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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Spokane, Washington – On September 4, 2024, a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Reynaldo Valdez Garza Jr., of Othello, Washington, with five counts of Odometer Tampering. Garza made his first appearance in Federal Court on September 9, 2024. 

The indictment alleges that beginning in May of 2023, Garza carried out a scheme to acquire used cars with high mileage, tamper with or replace the odometers in the vehicles to make the cars mileage appear much lower, then advertise and sell the vehicles to unsuspecting buyers for an inflated price. According to the indictment, in some cases, Garza caused odometers to be rolled back more than 100,000 miles. 

The indictment further alleges that in some instances Gaza would wait for the buyer to sign their section of the Bill of Sale paperwork, then fill in the “seller” section with different information than what was represented to the buyer regarding the identity of the seller and mileage. 

“The purchase of a vehicle is often one of the largest financial commitments people make. It is important that buyers have confidence in the information they receive when deciding which vehicle to purchase,” stated U.S. Attorney Vanessa Waldref. “My office is committed to protecting consumers from fraudsters who seek to cheat the system for their own gain.” 

This case was investigated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devin Curda. 

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Salem, Ore. – An increase in fiscal year 2024 donations and an Oregon Cultural Trust administrative budget allocation revision has resulted in an increase of close to $1 million in fiscal year 2025 grant awards, with an all-time high of $3.85 million awarded to 148 Oregon cultural organizations. 

Generous Oregonians increased their donations to the Cultural Trust by more than $300,000 in fiscal year 2024. In addition, through HB3532, the Legislature revised the Trust’s administrative budget to be assessed as a small percentage of the permanent fund allocation rather than from the grantmaking budget allocation.

The $3.85 million includes awards to 148 arts, heritage and humanities organizations across the state. Among them is a total of $962,880 for the Cultural Trust’s five statewide partners (Oregon Arts Commission, Oregon Heritage Commission, Oregon Humanities, Oregon Historical Society and the State Historic Preservation Office) and $962,880 for 45 County and Tribal Cultural Coalitions – who award an average of 450 additional awards annually in their communities.

In addition, $1,925,760 in competitive Cultural Development Program grants were awarded to 98 cultural nonprofits serving most geographic regions of the state. 

“To increase the value of our awards to the many amazing cultural nonprofits who enrich the lives of Oregonians every day is incredibly exciting,” said Sean Andries, chair of the Cultural Trust board. “This funding stretches broadly across our state and demonstrates an ongoing commitment to culture makers in communities large, small and everywhere in between." 

“Each year it’s inspiring to see the number of high-quality cultural projects submitted to the Trust. We wish we could fund every eligible application,” said Brian Rogers, Cultural Trust executive director. “Oregonians are fortunate to have so many cultural offerings across the state that celebrate our arts, heritage and humanities.”

The Cultural Development Program award recipients feature 16 organizations receiving their first-ever Cultural Trust award, of which 10 are located outside of Portland. First time recipients include: 

• 21ten Theatre, Portland: $14,119

To support the BareBones Theatre project, 21ten's repertory of touring shows performed in community spaces throughout the Metro area, serving priority communities including elders, the houseless and the incarcerated.

• Advance Gender Equity in the Arts, Portland: $9,645

To support the residency of award-winning Black female playwright Reneé Flemings at Portland State University to workshop her new play “empty spaces.”

• Ashland Parks Foundation, Ashland: $21,143

To support the restoration, repair and upgrade of the historic Butler-Perozzi Fountain and site (terrace, stairs, light posts) in Lithia Park, Ashland. The fountain was given to the city in 1915 by two local businessman and has been the jewel of Lithia Park since that time. 

• Linn County Lamb and Wool Association, Scio: $24,662

To support the preservation of the culturally historic 100-year-old ZCBJ Hall by replacing a failing roof while the building is still in good condition. The price of roofing goes up by about $8,000 a year according to quotes, which also adds expediency to the project. 

• North Bend Public Library Foundation, North Bend: $34,421

To support capital improvements to the North Bend Public Library Children’s Room that will enhance its ability to provide a safe and welcoming library space in which to provide essential community services.

• Tananawit, Warm Springs: $16,858

To support the development and self-sufficiency of Tananawit and its Warm Springs artists by providing culturally specific art-focused business classes. Artists will complete a bootcamp program, as well as professional practices and artist statement sessions. 

• Ten Fifteen Productions, Astoria: $10,186

To support efforts to convert an antiquated stage lighting system to a new, energy efficient LED system

Other Cultural Development grant award highlights include: 

• Boom Arts, Portland: $11,237

To support a festival of contemporary SWANA Art (Southwest Asian and North African) to uplift culturally specific creative expression and increase awareness and empathy of SWANA culture to build stronger cross-cultural bridges. 

• Bosco-Milligan Foundation, Portland: $22,836

To support the design and creation of an exhibit, walking tour and public lecture that spotlights important sites associated with LGBTQ+ history in the Portland Metro area and promotes their preservation. 

• Corvallis Multicultural Literacy Center, Corvallis: $30,409

To support access to cultural exchange for immigrant, refugee and international communities in the Willamette Valley. 

• Elkton Community Education Center, Elkton: $5,110

To increase access to high-quality arts education for rural youth and adults by creating a series of after-school and weekend classes with experienced arts educators.

• enTaiko, Portland: $22,551

To support the creation of a three-part initiative, “Adaptive Dance Project,” for enTaiko to work with dancers and musicians with disabilities. 

• Friends of Tryon Creek Park, Portland: $28,512

To support convening Indigenous leaders and stewards to share and document cultural land tending practices so that they can inform public engagement and forest management at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. 

• Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, Joseph: $34,713

To support Phase II of the Building Our Future capital campaign to expand the building and increase ADA access to the second-floor library and programs. The $1.6 million project will support the Center’s mission to advance access to the arts, heritage and the humanities by enabling JCAC to serve a greater number of residents and visitors, provide a wider variety of programs and further promote awareness and understanding of the legacy and culture of the Nez Perce. 

• Nordic Northwest, Portland: $5,666

To support the historic preservation of a Swedish-American treasure: a log cabin called Fogelbo House listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

• North Pole Studio, Portland: $19,358

To support a six-month printmaking residency for five North Pole Studio (NPS) artists with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities culminating in an exhibition, limited edition publication and run of fine art prints. 

• The Museum at Warm Springs, Warm Springs: $25,899

To support “Tł’aawxmamiyai - For Everyone - The Knowledge from Long Ago” featuring Warm Springs’ and other Indigenous master artists as traditional arts workshop teachers and exhibitors, emerging Warm Springs artists as workshop participants and exhibitors, and young Warm Springs Tribal members as exhibitors in the 2024 Youth Art Show, as well as the non-Tribal public as Museum visitors. “Tł’aawxmamiyai - For Everyone - The Knowledge from Long Ago” is grounded in the examples of "Ticham," the Long Memory of the Land. Along with project partners, we will teach and learn the integration of Indigenous knowledge and cultures in our daily lives. 

• The National Neon Sign Museum, The Dalles: $19,644

To support the restoration and preservation of the historic 1921 C. W. Parker Jantzen Beach Carousel horses. In October of 2023, the Museum was unanimously selected by Restore Oregon to receive and restore the historic carousel. The team will work with classically trained woodworking artists to train and inspire a new generation of artisans to restore the 82 horses to their original glory. 

The 98 Cultural Development grant awards range from $5,000 to $40,000 with an average grant award of $19,615. Fifty-one percent of the 193 eligible applications were funded. 

Cultural Development Program awards fund nonprofit projects that increase access to culture, invest in organizational capacity, support community creativity and provide historic preservation. Applications were reviewed and scored by peer review panels; final award amounts were determined and approved by the Cultural Trust Board of Directors at its Aug. 22 meeting. More than 60 percent of Cultural Trust funding (including awards to County and Tribal Coalitions) is awarded outside of the Portland Metro area. 

See a full list of County and Tribal Cultural Coalition award allocations.

See a list of the 98 Cultural Development awards, alphabetical by region. 

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Created in 2001 by the Oregon Legislature, the Oregon Cultural Trust was established as an ongoing funding engine for arts, heritage and humanities across the state. Funding comes through the Cultural Tax Credit, which empowers Oregonians to direct more of the taxes they pay to supporting cultural opportunities for all. Oregon is the only state in the country that gives its citizens this choice. Fifty-eight percent of the money goes directly to cultural organizations and agencies in the form of grants. The remaining 42 percent helps grow a permanent fund for culture. It’s described by the Oregonian as “A way to make paying state taxes satisfying.” Oregonians directed $5.4M of their state taxes to fund arts, heritage and humanities in fiscal year 2024. The Trust’s three grant programs fund five Statewide Partners, 45 County and Tribal Coalitions and qualified cultural nonprofits through competitive Cultural Development grants. Learn more at CulturalTrust.org.

RICHLAND, Wash. – Registration for the Washington State University Tri-Cities Fall Education Summit is now open. The summit, sponsored by STCU, will take place on Saturday, Oct. 12 and feature keynote speaker Blaire Penry.

The summit is open to administrators and teachers and will cover a variety of issues and perspectives in K-12 education over multiple sessions. Presenters from all over the state of Washington will hold professional development sessions on a variety of topics, including equity in education, STEM education, and Career and Technical Education (CTE). Participants will have the opportunity to earn up to six clock hours.

Keynote speaker Blaire Penry is the 2024 Washington State Teacher of the year. As an instructional specialist and electives teacher for grades 6-12 for the Auburn School District with nearly a decade of experience in education, she has led in the creation of student equity groups, developed and facilitated professional developments nationwide. Penry has been featured in podcasts and articles for outlets such as the League of Education Voters, The Recess, NPR, and others, testifying to the power of building engaging, student-centered learning communities, providing consistent and caring guidance, and elevating students’ positive sense of self.

The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the WSU Tri-Cities campus in Collaboration Hall, 2780 Crimson Way, Richland. Doors will open at 8:45 a.m. and lunch will be provided.

Summit registration costs $15, which covers the sessions, lunch, and the clock hours. Registration is required by Oct. 7 at noon. Spots fill fast, so early registration is encouraged. Individuals can register at https://secure.touchnet.net/C20607_ustores/web/store_main.jsp?STOREID=76&FROMQRCODE=true.

For questions about the event, visit tricities.wsu.edu/education/education-summit/ or contact Niamh O’Leary by calling (509) 372-7394, or emailing niamh.oleary@wsu.edu. 

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is accepting final applications for the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) program, which has limited funds remaining. 

HAF offers federal temporary COVID-19 emergency mortgage relief, designed to help homeowners who have experienced severe financial hardship due to the pandemic. Homeowners are eligible if they are facing foreclosure, involved in a court case that threatens their home, in property tax foreclosure, or in other high-risk situations identified by a housing counselor.

Homeowners should explore all other options with their servicer or a housing counselor before applying for HAF. 

“We strongly encourage eligible homeowners to contact a housing counselor immediately,” said Ryan Vanden Brink, assistant director of Homeowner Assistance Programs. “Scheduling and completing foreclosure avoidance counseling takes time and documentation. While we are accepting new applications, we cannot guarantee assistance to everyone who applies due to limited funding.”  

Homeowners wanting to apply for assistance must work with a HAF intake partner to submit an application on their behalf. A list of intake partners can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/homeownership/Pages/Homeownership-Assistance-Fund.aspx.

OHCS plans to make its final HAF payments in February 2025, but funds may run out much sooner. When funds are allocated, pending applications will be denied or paused subject to any funds becoming available. Applying for HAF does not guarantee approval or that a foreclosure will be postponed.

Some homeowners may have received letters from their county asking them if they want to apply for HAF. Please note that these are legitimate requests that the HAF team has approved and are not scam attempts.

Homeowners can learn more about eligibility criteria and application requirements at oregonhomeownerassistance.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.

9 de septiember de 2024  

Programa de asistencia para propietarios de vivienda está aceptando solicitudes para fondos limitados

El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregon (OHCS, por sus siglas en inglés) está aceptando solicitudes para el Fondo de Asistencia para Propietarios de Viviendas (HAF, por sus siglas en inglés), que tiene fondos limitados restantes. 

El programa temporal ofrece ayuda hipotecaria federal para los propietarios de viviendas que han experimentado graves dificultades financieras debido a la pandemia. Los propietarios son elegibles si se encuentran en una ejecución hipotecaria judicial o que amenace su hogar, en ejecución de impuestos sobre la propiedad, o en otras situaciones de alto riesgo identificadas por un asesor de vivienda.

Los propietarios de viviendas deben explorar todas las demás opciones con su administrador de préstamo o un asesor de vivienda antes de llenar una solicitud de HAF. 

“Animamos a los propietarios de viviendas elegibles a ponerse en contacto con un asesor de vivienda de inmediato”, dice Ryan Vanden Brink, director adjunto de Programas de Asistencia a Propietarios. “Programar y completar el asesoramiento para evitar la ejecución hipotecaria lleva tiempo y documentación. Si bien estamos aceptando nuevas solicitudes, no podemos garantizar la asistencia a todos los que soliciten ayuda debido a que hay fondos limitados”. 

Los propietarios de viviendas que deseen solicitar asistencia deben trabajar con un socio de admisión de HAF para presentar una solicitud en su nombre. Una lista de socios de admisión se puede encontrar en https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/homeownership/Pages/Homeownership-Assistance-Fund.aspx.

OHCS planea hacer los últimos pagos de HAF en febrero de 2025, pero los fondos pueden agotarse mucho antes. Cuando se asignen los fondos, los

La OHCS tiene previsto hacer los últimos pagos de HAF en febrero de 2025, pero los fondos podrían agotarse mucho antes. Cuando se asignen todos los fondos, las solicitudes pendientes se negarán o se pondrán en pausa por la posibilidad de que haya fondos disponibles. Solicitar ayuda de HAF no garantiza la aprobación ni el aplazamiento de la ejecución hipotecaria.

Es posible que algunos propietarios hayan recibido cartas de su condado preguntando si desean solicitar HAF. Tenga en cuenta que se trata de solicitudes legítimas que el equipo de HAF ha aprobado y que no son intentos de estafa. 

Los propietarios de viviendas pueden obtener más información sobre los criterios de elegibilidad y los requisitos de solicitud en oregonhomeownerassistance.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.

Join us for an employer led resume workshop designed specifically for veterans and military spouses on September 11th, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at WorkSource Columbia Basin at 815 N. Kellogg St. Suite D, Kennewick, WA 99336. You’ll have a chance to collaborate with local employers to gain insights into crafting targeted resumes that effectively showcase your skills and experiences, increase your chances of securing interviews and advancing in your career. A well-crafted resume is a powerful tool for opening doors to new opportunities. 

Are you tired of submitting countless job applications without getting any interview calls? Do you wonder what happens behind the scenes when your resume lands in the hands of recruiters and HR professionals? If so, join us for an eye-opening workshop designed to give you the insider knowledge you need to stand out in today’s competitive job market. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Resume Secrets Unveiled: Learn exactly what employers look for in a winning resume. Discover the key elements that make your application shine.
2. Crafting Compelling Cover Letters: Get a comprehensive overview of cover letter writing. Learn how to tailor your cover letter to grab attention and showcase your unique value.
3. Mastering Interviews: Acquire essential interviewing techniques from seasoned professionals. Nail that next interview with confidence!
4. LinkedIn as Your Secret Weapon: Understand how to leverage LinkedIn effectively. Build a powerful online presence that attracts recruiters and potential employers.
5. Skills Transferability: Explore how to translate your skills across different roles. Discover overlapping opportunities in related fields.

But that’s not all! At the end of the workshop, you’ll have the opportunity for a personalized resume review by our expert panel. Imagine having your resume fine-tuned by professionals who know exactly what employers want!

Don’t miss out on this chance to supercharge your career prospects. Reserve your spot now by clicking here or going to our calendar on WorkSourceWA.com. Seats are limited, so act fast!

For questions, please contact us! 

By phone: 509-734-5900 Option 7

By email: WSColumbiaBasin@esd.wa.gov

Washington County, Ore. 7 Sept 24- On Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 1:08 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two vehicle crash on Hwy 6, near milepost 49, in Washington County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound GMC Sonoma, operated by Leonardo Franco-Velazquez (22) of Gold Bar (WA), crossed into the on-coming lane for unknown reasons and struck an eastbound Honda Accord, operated by Patrick James Jamieson (65) of North Plains, head-on.

The operator of the GMC (Franco-Velazquez) was declared deceased at the scene. A passenger in the GMC, Fernanda Yamileth Gonzalez-Madera (20) of Tukwila (WA), was critically injured and transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Honda (Jamieson) was critically injured and transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Washington County Sheriff's Office and Banks Fire.

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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.  

Salem – Much of the work to build and maintain safe and healthy workplaces happens behind the scenes, with unsung heroes dedicating themselves to eliminating hazards and helping send workers home safe to their families and friends at the end of each work day.

Now is the time to shine a spotlight on these unsung heroes as part of the largest workplace safety conference in the Pacific Northwest and one of the largest in the U.S. Nominations are being accepted for the 2025 Oregon Governor’s Occupational Safety and Health (GOSH) Conference Awards, which will honor organizations and individuals who make exceptional contributions to workplace safety and health.

The conference will be held March 3-6, 2025, at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland. The awards will be presented March 5, 2025, as part of the four-day GOSH event. Nominees will compete with like-sized organizations in the following categories:

• Workplace safety program
• Association
• Safety committee or safety/health/wellness team
• Innovation
• Safety/health/wellness advocate
• Labor representative (union or nonunion)
• Safety and health professional
• Rising safety star
• Business leader

To nominate an unsung hero of workplace safety or health, visit the GOSH Awards nominations webpage. Nominations are due Friday, Oct. 24, 2024.

The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA), a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, is partnering with the Columbia-Willamette Chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals to sponsor the conference.

We encourage you to save the date for Oregon GOSH 2025, see and be seen by registering to exhibit, and to learn more by contacting the Oregon OSHA conference section at 503-947-7411 or egon.GOSH@dcbs.oregon.gov">Oregon.GOSH@dcbs.oregon.gov. 

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About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.