PORTLAND, Ore. – Gregory Rex Wilson, 52, of Portland, was sentenced today to 84 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release for distributing heroin and illegally possessing a firearm.

According to court documents, Wilson was part of a drug trafficking organization that transported heroin from El Monte, California to the Portland metropolitan area. The investigation revealed that Wilson was being supplied with heroin by “Chino Antrax,” later identified as co-defendant Pablo Flores. Flores had actively been trafficking heroin to Portland for more than a year. At the time of his arrest on December 12, 2016 in Portland, Wilson had 880 grams of heroin, 100 Xanax pills and a loaded Ruger 9mm pistol in his vehicle. Four additional firearms were later found in a second vehicle owned by Wilson, including one with an obliterated serial number.

On June 12, 2018, Wilson pleaded guilty in this case to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms. Three of Wilson’s co-defendants, Aaron Ray West, Ricardo Anguiano Cruz, Jr., and Jose Manuel Rodriguez, have also pleaded guilty to related charges. Flores awaits trial.

The case was investigated by the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF), FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Portland Police Bureau. It was prosecuted by Matthew J. Semritc, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

# # #

Date: Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Case # 2018-00383270

Date & Time of Incident: Wednesday, December 12, 2018.

Type of Incident: Search Warrant

Location of Incident: 1010 NW Portland Avenue #4, City of Bend

Suspect: Denver W. Lee / 26 year old Bend Resident

Narrative:

On December 11th 2018, Officers with the Bend Police Department received information that Bend resident, Denver Lee, was growing and selling Psilocybin Mushrooms. Using the information received, Officers applied for and were granted a search warrant for Lee’s residence.

On December 12th 2018, Officers with the Bend Police Department served a search warrant at 1010 NW Portland Avenue #4. During the warrant, Officers located Psilocybin Mushrooms in various stages of growth. Officers also located evidence of delivery and distribution of Psilocybin Mushrooms. Officers contacted and arrested Lee during the execution of the warrant.

Lee was transferred to the Deschutes County Jail where he was booked on the following charges.

Charges:

Possession of Schedule I Controlled Substance – Psilocybin Mushrooms

Delivery of Schedule I Controlled Substance – Psilocybin Mushrooms

Manufacturing/Distribution of Schedule I Controlled Substance – Psilocybin Mushrooms

Oregon Farm Bureau joined American Farm Bureau and farm and ranch families around the nation in applauding the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill by the U.S. House of Representatives today, after approval by the U.S. Senate yesterday. The bill will now make its way to the White House where President Trump is expected to sign it into law.   

The following statement may be attributed to Oregon Farm Bureau:

"After much debate, the 2018 Farm Bill passed the House of Representatives by a margin of 367-49, with 17 not voting. This comes on the heels of its passage yesterday by the Senate. Six of Oregon’s seven-member congressional delegation voted in favor of the bill.

“The legislation supports farmers and ranchers, protects crop insurance and conservation efforts, provides specialty crop programs, invests in efforts to expand foreign markets, protects animal health, and prioritizes agricultural research and rural development.

“The bill is critical to providing all stakeholders, including Oregon’s farmers, ranchers, and consumers, with consistent policy for the next five years, along with the many sectors and industries that rely on them.”

###

Note to Editors: “Farm Bureau” is a registered trademark; please capitalize in all cases.

Oregon Farm Bureau (OFB) is a grassroots, nonpartisan, nonprofit, general farm organization representing the interests of farming and ranching families in the public and policymaking arenas. First established in Oregon at the county level in 1919 and the state level in 1932, Farm Bureau is organized in all 36 counties.

Oregon Farm Bureau President Sharon Waterman is an OFB Hall of Fame honoree and operates a Century Ranch raising sheep, cattle, and timber in Bandon. She is OFB’s 16th president.

Media Contact: Robb Cowie, 503-945-7849, obb.cowie@state.or.us">robb.cowie@state.or.us

Lori Coyner to return as state Medicaid director

Oregon's former state Medicaid director will return to that role January 28.

Patrick Allen, Oregon Health Authority director, said Lori Coyner's return comes at a critical time for the transformation of Oregon's Medicaid program, known as the Oregon Health Plan, which provides health care coverage for nearly 1 million people in Oregon. Allen announced the hire in a message to OHA employees today.

"Lori has more than 25 years of experience developing and implementing health policy and leading health care transformation in Oregon," Allen said. “She knows the history and vision of our transformation work and she will be an invaluable member of our team as move into implementing the next five years of our Coordinated Care Organization (CCO) model.”

In her previous work at OHA as state Medicaid director, Coyner played a pivotal role in securing federal renewal of Oregon’s Medicaid waiver. She also oversaw the resetting of actuarially sound and federally approved CCO rates and helped address the Oregon Health Plan’s budget shortfall for the 2017-2019 biennium.

Before she was Oregon's Medicaid director, Coyner was OHA's director of Health Analytics, where she developed an incentive program to pay CCOs for value and quality instead of volume. Most recently Coyner was a managing principal for the Portland-based Health Management Associates.

# # #

December 12, 2018

Contact: Allyson Hagen, 503-449-6457, allyson.hagen@state.or.us (media inquiries)

Pete Edlund, 503-931-8873, .m.edlund@state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

CCO Metrics and Scoring Committee meets December 14

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Health Authority’s CCO Metrics and Scoring Committee.

When: December 14, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Five Oak Building (formerly known as Lincoln Building), Suite 775, Transformation Center Training Room, 421 SW Oak St., Portland. The public also can attend by webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/7438627555801803523 and telephone conference line at 888-204-5984, access code 1277166.

Agenda: Welcome, consent agenda, and updates; public testimony from 9:20-9:30; depression screening and follow-up for 2019; update on 2019 quality pool amount; planning for 2020 measure set; break; finalize HPQMC recommendations; finalize 2019 work plan; adjourn.

For more information, please visit the committee's website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/ANALYTICS/Pages/Metrics-Scoring-Committee.aspx.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Pete Edlund at 503-931-8873, 711 TTY, .m.edlund@state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Contact:  Pacific Power media hotline                       FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

               1-800-570-5838                                           Dec. 12, 2018

What is the winter forecast inside your home?

Meteorologists call for a mild winter with some cold snaps, but by using smart technology and Pacific Power’s energy tips you can forecast savings for your home this season

PORTLAND, Ore. – It’s a law of physics. The colder it gets outside, the more energy it takes to keep your house warm. New home technology can help offset that equation with insights that give you more control over your usage and energy bill.

This year, Pacific Power began upgrading more than 630,000 customers in Oregon and California to smart meters, bringing a new opportunity for winter savings. The nearly 350,000 customers who now have an activated new meter can tap into tools to help them better manage their energy use. Having a smart meter enables customers to view their daily and hourly electricity usage via their online account, and empowers them to make informed choices to help control their bills.

Customers with a smart meter can also set up a bill threshold and sign up to receive alerts when their bills are projected to exceed their chosen threshold. With this feature, customers get a text or email notifying them so they can make adjustments to their usage or budget, as needed.

“Technology can be a great way for customers to get in front of what can be a time of seasonally higher energy bills,” said Barb Coughlin, Pacific Power’s vice president for customer service. “Lower-tech options are also helpful, like sealing all windows or doors before the cold really sets in. This can be done inexpensively now and the difference will show up once temperatures start dipping below freezing.”

Another way to help manage winter bills is to switch to Equal Pay. Under Equal Pay, energy costs are averaged out over the year, so bills are more predictable and manageable. Customers can enroll in Equal Pay online at pacificpower.net/equalpay, via the Pacific Power mobile app, or by phone at 1-888-221-7070.

“The sooner you call, the better for Equal Pay,” said Coughlin. “If you wait until the higher bills have already come, your average will have gone up, too. This program also helps if you have high cooling costs in the summer.”

Here are low-cost tips you can use today to battle cold weather:

• Set your thermostat as low as comfortable, aim for 68 degrees. When you are asleep or out of the house, lower the temperature by another 10 degrees and this will reduce your energy usage by about 10 percent.
• Use space heaters sparingly and safely. Running a 1,500 watt portable heater 8 hours a day for 30 days can add an extra $30 to a monthly power bill in winter.
• Avoid the temptation to bump up the thermostat when it gets colder. That won’t get you to your desired temperature faster, you will just make your furnace run longer and use more energy.
• Improve your home’s heating and cooling systems by cleaning or replacing furnace filters and scheduling routine system maintenance to help air flow through the system more efficiently. Move furniture that is blocking intakes or heat registers.

You can save even more energy by taking a longer-range view of your energy use. In Oregon, Pacific Power teams up with Energy Trust of Oregon to offer energy efficiency consultation and cash incentives to upgrade your home and save energy and money. Visit bewattsmart.com or call the Energy Trust toll free at 1-866-368-7878 to learn more about qualifications and services.

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PORTLAND, Ore., December 12, 2018— OnPoint Community Credit Union and the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) have announced the Fall winners of the 2018-2019 OnPoint Community Credit Union Academic All-State Program. This program awards students for outstanding achievement in the classroom.

The Academic All-State Award is awarded to all boys and girls teams in each OSAA-sanctioned activity that achieve a 3.0 or higher cumulative team grade point average. Each member of a winning team receives a commemorative decal and a certificate. Members of the top 10 schools in each activity of each classification receive additional recognition and the top school receives a plaque in honor of its team.

“OnPoint partnered with the OSAA because we are committed to advancing education and enrichment,” said OnPoint President and CEO Rob Stuart. “Congratulations to the winners of the Academic All-State Award for your continued excellence in your activities and in the classroom.”

The Academic All-State Award is part of OnPoint’s five-year partnership agreement with the OSAA, which includes the title sponsorship of the Oregon high school state championships. This partnership builds on OnPoint’s commitment to strengthen education by supporting students, schools and educators. OnPoint was founded by 16 schoolteachers in 1932 and has honored those roots in a variety of ways, including the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education.

“OnPoint’s commitment to education made the organization an ideal partner for the OSAA,” said Peter Weber, OSAA Executive Director. “Together, we are so proud of what the winners of the Academic All-State Award have accomplished and can’t wait to see what their future holds.”

The OSAA sponsors 118 state championships in 19 interscholastic activities including choir, dance/drill, football, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, volleyball, boys and girls cross country, boys and girls swimming, wrestling, cheerleading, baseball, softball, boys and girls track and field, boys and girls tennis, boys and girls golf, band, orchestra, solo music and speech.

Every season, schools and activity departments submit academic information for the Academic All-State Program. To learn more about the OnPoint Community Credit Union Academic All-State Program, view the winners or submit academic information, visit www.osaa.org/awards.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

About OnPoint Community Credit Union: OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving more than 357,000 members and with assets of $5.5 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union's membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 13 Oregon (Benton, Clackamas, Columbia, Crook, Deschutes, Jefferson, Lane, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Washington and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

ABOUT THE OREGON SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION

The Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) is a private non-profit, board-governed association comprised of 291 member high schools.  A member of the National Federation of State High School Associations, the OSAA annually sponsors 118 state championships in 19 sports and activities.  For more information, visit www.osaa.org or follow @OSAASports on social media.

 ###

On Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at approximately 5:56 PM Oregon State Police and emergency personnel responded to a multi vehicle crash on Hwy 238 near milepost 38 in Jackson County.

Preliminary investigation reveals that Charles Redlingshafer (21) of Central Point was operating a 1989 Ford PU towing a trailer loaded with hay, he lost control of the trailer and crashed into a Geo Metro (driver to be identified later) and a 1987 Toyota PU, operated by Nancy Asman (66) of Jacksonville.

Asman sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Geo sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

Redlingshafer was not injured.

Hwy 238 was closed for approximately 9 hours for investigation and recovery of vehicles.

OSP was assisted by Applegate Valley Fire District, Mercy Flights, Jackson County Sheriff's Office, Jacksonville Police Department, and ODOT.

UPDATED CORRECTION TO ORIGINAL RELEASE (BELOW)

Davis Franco was traveling south bound on SE 3rd Street at the time of the crash, not north bound as indicated below.

Date:  Tuesday, December 11th, 2018

Case #:  2018-382699

Date and Time of Incident:  December 11th @ 10:16am

Type of Incident:  Fatal Traffic Crash

Location of Incident:  NE 3rd Street at SE Miller Avenue

Driver 1/Deceased:  Davis Franco     21year old      Bend resident

Driver 2:  Ryan Wannemaker      43 year old    Bend resident

Narrative:

On December 11th at 10:16am Bend Police and Bend Fire responded to a traffic crash involving a motorcycle and a pickup towing a utility trailer at the intersection of SE 3rd Street and SE Miller Avenue.

During the initial investigation it was learned that Davis Franco was traveling north bound on SE 3rd Street riding a 2017 Yamaha motorcycle.  Ryan Wannemaker operating a 2017 Chevy pickup, which was towing an enclosed utility trailer.  Wannemaker was east on SE Miller and stopped at the stop sign at SE 3rd Street. Wannemaker made a left turn to head north on SE 3rd Street.  At this point Franco’s motorcycle collided with the rear quarter panel of Wannemaker’s pickup.

Responding officers and medics provided life saving efforts, but Franco was pronounced deceased at the scene.  Wannemaker remained on scene of the crash and fully cooperated with investigators. 

The roadway was closed until approximately 1:30pm while the Bend Police Department reconstruction team investigated the scene.  The Bend Police Department reconstruction team is actively investigating the crash.  Crash investigators are asking anybody who witnessed the incident or who observed described vehicles prior to the crash to call the non-emergency number, 541-693-6911. 

On Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at approximately 5:10 pm, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a motor vehicle crash on Hwy 99E near milepost 36.5.  This is approximately 1/2 mile south of Gervais. 

Preliminary investigation revealed that a white 1996 Honda Accord, operated by Jose Alfredo Garcia-Ortega, age 35, of Woodburn, OR, was traveling northbound on Hwy 99E when for unknown reasons it drifted over the lane lines and into the southbound lane and struck a 2000 Chevrolet box truck, operated by Jasper Davenport, age 35, of Mill City, OR.   Garcia-Ortega's vehicle then collided with a third vehicle, a 2003 Toyota Tacoma pickup, operated by Nick Martishev, age 53, of Gervais, OR.

Garcia-Ortega sustained fatal injuries in the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  He was not wearing a seat belt.

Davenport and Martishev were transported to the Salem Hospital for treatment of injuries. 

Hwy 99E was closed for approximately four hours. 

OSP was assisted by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, ODOT, Woodburn Police Department, and Woodburn Fire Department.

Released by:          Sgt. William Bailey – Public Information Officer

Location:                NW 43rd St at NW Lower Bridge Way

Vehicle 1:                White 2003 Pontiac Sunfire

Vehicle 2:                Beige 1996 Toyota Corolla

Driver 1:                  Marshall, Cynthia K.                       Age:   58

                                 Crooked River Ranch, OR

Driver 2:                  Johnson, Quentin R.                      Age:   20

                                 Redmond, OR

Passenger Veh 2:   Toms, Dreydon A.                           Age:  22

                                 Redmond, OR

Citation:                  Fail to Obey a Traffic Control Device

NARRATIVE:         

On December 11, 2018, at 1:48 pm, deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a motor vehicle crash at the intersection of NW 43rd Street and NW Lower Bridge Drive, west of Terrebonne.  The crash involved two vehicles and an ambulance was needed at the scene.

Deputies arrived to find the driver of the white Pontiac Sunfire, Cynthia K. Marshall, inside her vehicle and unable to self-extricate.  Redmond Fire and Crooked River Ranch Fire responded and worked quickly to extricate Marshall from her vehicle.  Marshall was then transported by a Crooked River Ranch Fire ambulance to St. Charles Health System in Redmond with serious injuries.

An investigation determined Marshall was stopped at the stop sign on NW 43rd Street waiting for an approaching westbound vehicle from the east.  As the approaching westbound vehicle slowed and prepared to turn on NW 43rd, Marshall pulled away from the stop sign to make an eastbound turn.  Marshall did not see a second westbound vehicle and pulled out into the path of the Toyota Corolla driven by Quentin R. Johnson.  Both vehicles sustained heavy damage in the crash and needed to be towed from the scene.

A traffic citation was issued to Marshall for Failing to Obey a Traffic Control Device (Stop Sign).  The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the citizens who stopped and rendered assistance until deputies and fire personnel arrived at the crash. 

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is a full service organization providing patrol, criminal investigations, corrections, civil and search and rescue. Special operations include SWAT, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with four K9 units. Founded in 1916 and today directed by Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves the more than 185,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 230 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 180 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

## End of Release ##

SALEM, Ore. – The State Land Board will hear updates on the Elliott State Forest, including presentations from public entities interested in owning the forest, during its Dec. 18 meeting in Salem. 

As part of an ongoing project to keep the forest publicly owned, the Board in October asked public entities to indicate their interest in ownership. For purposes of finding a new owner, “public” means state or federal government agencies, federally-recognized Oregon tribes, state universities, and local governments. Letters of interest are available in the meeting materials.  

Other Elliott State Forest updates include a declaration regarding the $100 million in bonding approved by the 2017 Oregon Legislature, summary of public comments regarding the recent stakeholder perspectives report, and direction on next steps for public engagement.   

During the meeting the Board will also consider new rules for easements on state-owned lands; the sale of .4 acres in Coos County; a legislative concept to transfer administration of Oregon’s unclaimed property program to the State Treasury; a resolution to increase efficiency of Common School Fund allocations; and reappointment of an Oregon Ocean Science Trust member.    

The meeting will be held:
Tuesday, Dec. 18  
10 a.m. 
Department of State Lands
Land Board Room
775 Summer St. NE, Salem

Meeting agenda and materials, including Elliott State Forest letters of interest: https://www.oregon.gov/dsl/Board/Pages/SLBmeetings.aspx

To live stream the meeting, go to the State Lands YouTube channel: 
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQA7FHTWwl-gjJkQeYPJ1IA

This meeting will be held in a facility that is accessible for persons with disabilities.  If you need assistance to participate in the meeting due to a disability, please notify Arin Smith at (503) 986-5224 or arin.n.smith@state.or.us at least two working days prior to the meeting. 

About the State Land Board and the Department of State Lands: The State Land Board consists of Governor Kate Brown, Secretary of State Dennis Richardson and State Treasurer Tobias Read. The Department of State Lands administers diverse natural and fiscal resources. Many of the resources generate revenue for the Common School Fund, such as state-owned rangelands and timberlands, waterway leases, estates for which no will or heirs exist, and unclaimed property. Twice a year, the agency distributes fund investment earnings to support K-12 public schools. The agency also administers Oregon’s Removal-Fill Law, which requires people removing or filling certain amounts of material in waters of the state to obtain a permit. 
 

Oregon Hunter’s Association increases cash reward amount to $7,500 for poached bull moose in Wallowa County.

Pledges from OHA chapters across the state have poured in thus increasing the cash reward amount to $7,500 for information leading to the issuance of a citation or arrest for the bull moose unlawfully killed in the Chesnimnus unit.

In addition to the cash reward the Krebs Ranch, located near the Zumwalt Prairie Preserve in the Chesnimnus unit, notified the Oregon Hunters Association, that they are also offering a guided bull elk hunt valued at $3,500, to the person that provides the information.

“The poaching of a moose is a tragic thing,” said OHA Conservation Director Jim Akenson, who resides in Wallowa County. “Especially because our moose population is low with fewer than 70 in Oregon.”

Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Troopers are asking for the public’s assistance in locating and apprehending the person(s) responsible for shooting a bull moose sometime between Thursday, November 8, 2018 and Sunday, November 11, 2018 (the last couple of days of the 2nd Bull Elk Season) in Wallowa County.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the moose was shot and partially cut up off of the USFS 46 Road between Teepee Pond and mile marker 35 in the Chesnimnus Big Game Unit. The suspect(s) accessed the moose carcass from a campsite on the north side of the USFS 46 Road. Additionally, a side-by-side UTV was used to haul the moose meat and parts from the kill site back to the campsite.

Anyone who was in the vicinity of Teepee Pond and mile marker 35 on the USFS 46 Road during the mentioned timeframes and who may have information that will help identify the suspect(s), is asked to call the Turn In Poachers (TIP) line at (800) 452-7888, OSP(677) or Senior Trooper Mark Knapp at (541) 426-3049.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators 

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators 

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.

Preference Point Rewards:

5 Points-Bighorn Sheep

5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points-Moose

5 Points-Wolf

4 Points-Elk

4 Points-Deer

4 Points-Antelope

4 Points-Bear

4 Points-Cougar

Or the TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat, Moose, Elk, Deer, Antelope, Bear, Cougar, Wolf, Upland Birds, Waterfowl, and Furbearers. Cash rewards can also be awarded for the unlawful take of Game Fish and Shellfish and for Habitat Destruction.

CASH REWARDS:
$1,000 Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat and Moose 
$500 Elk, Deer and Antelope 
$300 Bear, Cougar and Wolf 
$300 Habitat Destruction 
$100 Upland Birds and Waterfowl 
$100 Furbearers 

$100 Game Fish and Shellfish 

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity: 

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP(677)

TIP E-Mail: TIP@state.or.us (Monitored M-F 8:00AM - 5:00PM)

Dec. 11, 2018

Media contact: Saerom England, 971-239-6483, om.y.england@state.or.us">saerom.y.england@state.or.us

OHA responds to audit on Prescription Drug Monitoring Program

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Director Patrick Allen issued the following statement today, following the release of the Oregon Secretary of State’s audit on the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program:

"We want to thank the Secretary of State’s audit team for their recommendations on how to improve the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, one of Oregon’s key strategies to protect patient safety in health care. The PDMP tracks prescriptions of controlled substances such as oxycodone to help clinicians make safe prescribing decisions and detect problems.

"Oregon has seen a steady decline in prescription opioid-related deaths and opioid prescribing in recent years, thanks to the PDMP and other initiatives aimed at reducing opioid overdose and death. About 93 percent of Oregon’s top prescribers of controlled substances are registered, and queries on the PDMP have quadrupled since 2012.

"We agree with the auditors’ recommendations and many align with work already ongoing at OHA. Other recommendations require legislative action, and we look forward to advising the Legislature on these policy ideas."

# # #

Salem, Ore. — The Santiam Pass Ski Lodge in Linn County is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places.

The USDA Forest Service prepared and nominated this property to the National Register and Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation supported the listing of this nomination. The National Park Service—which maintains the National Register—accepted the nomination Oct. 18, 2018

The Santiam Pass Ski Lodge is representative of an important period of development that shaped public lands to facilitate access and usage for outdoor recreation for the general public. The lodge was constructed between July 1939 and February 1940 and was the result of collaborative efforts by the USDA Forest Service with Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) labor.

Located on the Santiam Pass on Highway 20 in the McKenzie River Ranger District of the Willamette National Forest, the Santiam Lodge was instrumental in creating a place for citizens to sleep and get meals in the mountains at a reasonable cost while they participated in winter sports activities around the area. It was operated in the capacity of winter ski lodge from 1939 until 1958.

This property is one of the few remaining extant Rustic ski lodge facilities built by the USDA Forest Service in the Pacific Northwest during the intensive building program between 1939 and 1941. The Santiam Lodge building was built in the Rustic style, an architectural style known for embracing a philosophy that is cohesive with the surrounding environment by using materials derived from local sources with a simple or natural finish.

On May 10, 2018, the Willamette National Forest signed the operating plan and special use permit for the restoration of the Santiam Pass Ski Lodge. The new permittees, Susan and Dwight Sheets, will be working with community members and foundations to renovate the CCC-built Lodge to its former condition. You can learn more about the work they are doing by visiting their website www.santiampassskilodge.org.

The Santiam Pass Ski Lodge is one of 67 individually listed historic properties in Linn County. The National Register of Historic Places was established as part of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966.

The Forest Service Heritage Program seeks to preserve, protect and educate the public about historic sites. The Santiam Pass Ski Lodge, and many other Forest Service historic sites, reflect the agency’s commitment to working with partners, state agencies, and local communities to preserve the past.  Learn more about the Forest Service Heritage Program at www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/heritage

More information about the National Register and recent Oregon lists is online at www.oregonheritage.org (click on “National Register” at left of page).

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dec. 11, 2018 – Oregon Farm Bureau Federation President Sharon Waterman witnessed the signing of the new Clean Water Rule at the EPA headquarters in Washington, D.C. today, along with presidents from other State Farm Bureaus from across the nation.

The following statement may be attributed to Oregon Farm Bureau Federation President Sharon Waterman:

"Oregon Farm Bureau applauds the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for listening to America's farmers and ranchers and taking a step in the right direction with the new Clean Water Rule. We are reviewing how the new rule will work on the ground for farm and ranch families based in Oregon. 

“Every day Oregon's farmers and ranchers work very hard to maximize water efficiency and protect water quality because our livelihood and future depend on it, it's the law, and it's simply the right thing to do. We hope the new rule will give Oregon’s farmers and ranchers the ability to productively work the land without constant fear of litigation, costly permits, or risk of enormous fines for even basic farm practices.

“We are extremely proud of the many Oregon Farm Bureau members who helped in the years-long campaign beseeching the EPA to ‘Ditch the Rule.’ The 2015 Waters of the U.S. definition went far beyond the lawful bounds of the Clean Water Act, and Oregon farmers and ranchers explained how WOTUS was unworkable and impractical in meetings with national lawmakers and federal agency reps, in media interviews, in letters to the editor, and via social media.

“The fact that we have a new Clean Water Rule is a testament to the power of Farm Bureau’s grassroots membership.”

###

Note to Editors: “Farm Bureau” is a registered trademark; please capitalize in all cases.

Oregon Farm Bureau (OFB) is a grassroots, nonpartisan, nonprofit, general farm organization representing the interests of farming and ranching families in the public and policymaking arenas. First established in Oregon at the county level in 1919 and the state level in 1932, Farm Bureau is organized in all 36 counties.

Oregon Farm Bureau President Sharon Waterman is an OFB Hall of Fame honoree and operates a Century Ranch raising sheep, cattle, and timber in Bandon. She is OFB’s 16th president.

December 7, 2018 – Salem, Ore. – Two moms. Two $25,000 Oregon Lottery 2nd Chance drawing prizes. And two ways to play.
The Oregon Lottery offers a 2nd Chance game for selected bingo and crossword Scratch-its. If a player has a non-winning ticket, they can enter the ticket on the Lottery’s website for a second chance to win the top prize. When the each of the games is ended, there is a drawing for the 2nd Chance top prize.
Amber Lahey, from St. Helens, said she couldn’t believe it when she was notified by certified letter that she had won $25,000 playing the Lottery’s 2nd Chance game. She won after entering her Railway Riches Bingo ticket into the 2nd Chance drawing.
“When I got the mail, I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “I called the Lottery and found out it was true. It’s perfect timing for me because my birthday is at the end of the month and, of course, Christmas.”
Lahey said she has a budget of $10 a week that she plays Scratch-its and that the 2nd Chance drawing extends her play.
Nicole Williams of Eugene also won $25,000 playing the 2nd Chance game, and said she uses the drawing to make sure her tickets are not winners.
“I will play them and sometimes I miss a word or letter with the crosswords,” she said. “So when I try to enter them into the website, it tells me that I won on that ticket.”
Williams won with a Mad Money Crossword Scratch-it she entered in the 2nd Change game. She said her plans were to buy a gaming system for her son.
To play the 2nd Chance Drawing, players register on the Oregon Lottery website and enter eligible non-winning Scratch-it tickets for a chance to win the last top prize in that game. Players can also see how many tickets have been entered, to select the best odds of winning that last top prize. Drawings are held  after a particular game has ended. Winners are notified by email, mail, and certified mail that they won.
Lottery officials recommend that you always sign the back of your tickets with each Oregon Lottery game you play, to ensure you can claim any prize you may win. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Prize winners of more than $50,000 should contact the Lottery office to schedule an appointment to claim their prize.
Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned nearly $12 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org
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MEDFORD, Ore. – Gonzalo Manzo, 33, of Fresno, California, was sentenced today to 188 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, in 2017, Manzo coordinated the shipment of a kilogram of cocaine from California to Southern Oregon. Manzo and his co-conspirators sold the cocaine to undercover agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in Oregon in exchange for six Colt .38 Super caliber pistols, two Beretta 9mm pistols with silencers, a Glock 9mm machine gun and $21,000 in cash. Manzo intended for the firearms and cash to be transported back to California but agents arrested Manzo and his co-conspirators and the firearms were seized by law enforcement.

Manzo previously pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on April 27, 2018.

The case was investigated by ATF and prosecuted by Nathan J. Lichvarcik and Adam E. Delph, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

Attachments:

Photos 1-3: Firearms received in exchange for cocaine

Photos 4-7: Screenshots from a 2015 YouTube music video depicting Manzo with firearms

# # #

December 11, 2018

Contact: Delia Hernández, 503-422-7179, phd.communications@state.or.us

Oregon Cannabis Commission meets by conference call December 19

What: The bi-monthly public meeting of the Oregon Cannabis Commission (OCC).

Agenda: Review, discuss, and vote on barriers and recommendations of HB 2198 report; OCC and HB 2198 next steps; public comment.

When: December 19, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: By conference call only: 877-848-7030, access code 753428.

Background: The Oregon Cannabis Commission was established in the 2017 legislative session through HB 2198. The commission consists of the state health officer or designee and an eight-member panel appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. The commission is tasked with determining a possible framework for future governance of the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program, steps to address research on cannabis in areas of public health policy and public safety policy, agronomic and horticultural best practices, and medical and pharmacopoeia best practices. Along with this, they advise the Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission with respect to the statutes governing medical and retail cannabis.  For more information, please visit the commission's website at http://www.healthoregon.org/cannabiscommission.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written material in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Shannon McFadden at 971-673-3181, 711 TTY or shannon.m.mcfadden@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Welcome to the Oregon FBI’s Tech Tuesday segment. This week: Building a digital defense against fake ticket scams.

If you are like me, you don’t want to give your kids (or husbands or parents) any more stuff. Sure all those presents look good under the Christmas tree, but enough is enough. I’m tired of cleaning the clutter out of the closets in my home and finding treasured gifts that I paid good money for still in the plastic wrap.

A better alternative always seems to be to give them “experiences,” right? Memories that will last a lifetime and earn me some good Mom or wife points down the road. These kinds of gifts can be spectacular – and spendy. Your goal this holiday shopping season is to find a good deal while still making sure that you don’t get taken. Nothing will ruin the “experience” of your “experience gift” more than showing up at a venue and finding out that your tickets are bogus. Concerts, professional sporting events and special events are all vulnerable to this scam.

Here are some tips to keep your ticket purchases on the up-and-up:

• Pay with a credit card, not a debit card. This gives you a little more leverage to dispute the charge if something goes wrong.
• Make sure the website is secure. Always look for the lock symbol and an “s” at the end of the “http” portion of the site’s URL.
• Be wary if the site doesn’t have contact information for customer issues.
• Likewise, watch out if the seller requires you use a wire transfer or gift card to pay for your purchase. This is a huge red flag.
• Don’t buy from scalpers.
• Popular online marketplaces often have legit tickets mixed in with frauds. Know that the risk of losing your money is high.
• When searching for tickets online, don’t just choose the result at the top of your search list. Confirm that you know which company you are buying from and don’t just assume it is one of the more well-known options.
• Don’t click on links or attachments in social media posts, emails or texts.

If you want to stay low-risk, consider using one of the re-sale platforms run by the major ticket vendors. You will pay that company’s ticket fee, but at least these bigger companies will guarantee that your re-sale ticket is legitimate.

If you have been victimized by this or any cyber fraud, be sure to report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or call your local FBI office.

On Monday, December 10, 2018 at about 8:53 am, Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a two-vehicle rear end crash on Hwy 22E near milepost 3. 

Preliminary investigation revealed that a light blue 1975 Volkswagen Beetle , operated by Eugene Mason, age 80, of Salem, was traveling eastbound on Hwy 22E when it was rear-ended by a 2006 Kenworth commercial motor vehicle with a 53' foot trailer, operated by Gordon Wright, age 55, of Gresham.  Mason's vehicle veered off the roadway and rolled. 

Mason sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

Dense fog was a contributing factor in the crash. 

One lane of Hwy 22E was closed for approximately three hours following the crash.  OSP was assisted by the Salem Police Department, Keizer Police Department, Salem Fire Department, and ODOT.

Released by:          Deputy Jim Whitcomb Assistant SAR Coordinator

Occurred:               Sunday, 12/0918, at 2010 hours

Location:                2.5 miles East of East Lake

Stuck Motorists:           Smith, Soren 24 yom Bend, OR

                                    Bissada-Smith, 54 yof Bend, OR

                                   17 and 13 year old juveniles, Bend, OR

Narrative:

On 12/09/2018, at about 2010 hours, Deschutes County 911 received a call from a stuck motorist, who reported he and his family were stuck in the snow near East Lake. The reporting person and operator of the vehicle, Soren Smith, advised he and three family members to include two juveniles had gone to the area to cut a Christmas tree and had gotten stuck in their 4x4 pickup. Smith’s intention was to drive on FS road 21 past East Lake to go home after finding their Christmas tree earlier on the 9710 road. Smith advised they left home at about 1530 hours and become stuck at about 1945 hours. Smith believed they would be able to stay warm since the vehicle had a half tank of gas and they were dressed for the weather, had water with them, but no extra food. The snow depth was reported to be about a foot and a half and it was currently snowing. The family had not brought shovels or any other implement to assist them after becoming stuck in the snow.

A Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Deputy responded to the area with a patrol pickup towing a trailer with a tracked ATV. The Deputy trailered the tracked ATV as far as possible at which point the ATV was deployed. The Deputy then traveled in the tracked ATV the remaining distance of about 4 miles before arriving at Smith’s vehicle at about 0015 hours the next morning.  Smith’s vehicle was located about 2.5 miles east of East Lake and Smith advised it had snowed about 3 more inches since he had become stuck. The family members and their dog were transported in the ranger back to the patrol pickup and then were provided a curtesy transport to their residence.

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office would like to remind those traveling in the backcountry that several Forest Service roads are closed during the winter season. If you are planning on traveling on backcountry roads that may have snow on them (no matter the depth) it is recommended to possess traction tires and/or tire chaines, shovels and/or other implements to help free you if you become stuck as well as the 10 Essentials for wilderness survival in case you are forced to spend the night in your vehicle.  Please refer to the following weblinks for up to date road closures:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/deschutes/home/?cid=stelprdb5347630

https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/deschutes/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5408820

“The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is a full service organization providing patrol, criminal investigations, corrections, civil and search and rescue. Special operations include Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with four K9 units. Founded in 1916 and today directed by Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves the more than 185,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 230 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 180 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.”

On December 3, 2018 at approximately 7:04 AM, A patrol sergeant with the Hood River County Sheriff's Office initiated a traffic stop in Odell for traffic infractions. The driver of the suspect vehicle failed to yield to the deputy's emergency lights and siren. The driver continued north from Odell on secondary roadways, eventually leaving the paved road way, entering an orchard in the 4300 block of Chamberlain Drive. The deputy continued to follow the vehicle through the orchard, using his loudspeaker to give commands to the driver. Approximately 400 yards into the orchard, the driver stopped and quickly exited his vehicle with a black object in his hand.  The deputy gave verbal commands and fired one shot, missing the subject.  The deputy continued giving verbal commands, which the subject eventually complied with.  He was taken into custody without further incident. 

The subject, identified as Gabriel Cruz Bejarano, age 27, of Odell was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance, Attempt to Elude Police-Felony, and No Operator's License.  He was lodged in NORCOR. 

The deputy involved is Sgt. Joel Carmody.  He is a twelve year veteran of the Hood River Sheriff's Office. 

The use of force by the deputy is under investigation by the Columbia Gorge Major Crimes Team in accordance with SB 111.  Officers from Hood River Police Department, Hood River Sheriff's Office, Wasco County Sheriff's Office and the Oregon State Police are working cooperatively on this investigation with OSP as the lead. 

Any further information will be released by the Hood River County District Attorney's Office.

(Salem) – Saturday, Dec. 15, is the last day to get 2019 health insurance during open enrollment.  

Oregonians who do not get coverage through their job or another program should visit OregonHealthCare.gov to get started. Missing the deadline could mean going a year without health insurance.

“Even the healthiest among us can face an unexpected injury or illness, along with the expensive medical bills that follow,” said Cameron Smith, director of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services. “Health insurance reduces those costs for you, so your finances can recover as fast as your body does.”

Coverage costs less when you get financial assistance, and thousands of Oregonians qualify for it. Last year, more than 70 percent of people who enrolled in plans through HealthCare.gov got help paying their premium. This year, families of four making about $100,000 a year or less, and individuals making about $48,000 or less, may be eligible.

“If you already have coverage for 2019, tell your family or friends about the deadline,” said Chiqui Flowers, administrator of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. “Everyone knows someone who either does not have insurance, or is paying too much for their plan. We suggest they visit OregonHealthCare.gov by Dec. 15.”

At OregonHealthCare.gov, users answer a few Oregon-specific questions to get to the right application for them. They also can use a directory on the site to find a licensed insurance agent or certified community group to help them with their enrollment. 

Anyone with questions about enrolling can call the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace at 855-268-3767 (toll-free). The marketplace is a division of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services and the state-level partner to HealthCare.gov.

After the Dec. 15 deadline, people will be able to buy 2019 coverage only in special circumstances, like when they get married or lose job-related coverage.

###

The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace helps Oregonians get coverage and financial assistance through HealthCare.gov. It is a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS). For more information, go to OregonHealthCare.gov.
 

Tumalo OR – For the eighth year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America’s State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year’s Day. Information about the special hike hosted at Tumalo State Park is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/ParkStoreEvents. Registration—although not required—will help park staff plan for the hike and give park staff contact information should the hike be canceled because of weather or conditions.

Hike time:                               11 a.m.

Starting location:                    Deschutes River Trail Trailhead (back of the day-use parking lot)

Terrain and length of trail:     Easy, 3.4-mile hike on the Deschutes River Trail

Contact information:              (541) 388-6055 ext. 0

Additional details:                  Please, no dogs or baby strollers. Hike recommended for children at least five years old.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.

Bend OR – For the eighth year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America’s State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year’s Day. Information about the special hikes hosted at Smith Rock State Park is below. The usual $5 parking fee will be waived Jan. 1 only.

Hikers can register for the hikes at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/ParkStoreEvents. Registering will help park staff plan for the hikes and provide them with participant contact information should hike details change.

Hike time:                               10 a.m.  Each hike is limited to 35 participants. Reserve your spot by registering at http://bit.ly/ParkStoreEvents

Starting location:                    Smith Rock Welcome Center

Terrain and length of trail:     Moderate 2-mile Rimrock Trail hike follows the east canyon rim. The 3-mile Wolf Tree Trail is also a moderate hike. Both hikes are round trip. We recommend the hikes for children at least 7 years old. No dogs or baby strollers allowed.                                                

Contact information:             (541) 548-7501

Additional details:                  Learn about winter wildlife and the unique geological features of the park.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.

LaPine OR – For the eighth year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America’s State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year’s Day. Information about the special hike hosted at LaPine State Park is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/ParkStoreEvents. Registration—although not required—will help park staff plan for the hike and give park staff contact information should the hike be canceled because of weather or conditions.

Hike time:                               11 a.m.

Starting location:                    South Loop

Terrain and length of trail:     Easy, three-mile hike on the Deschutes Loop Trail

Contact information:             (541) 536-2315

Additional details:                  The trail takes you through the woods and along the Deschutes River. Enjoy wildlife viewing and a nice winter scene from McGregor Viewpoint. Depending on the depth of the snow, this may become a snowshoe hike. Dogs must be on a six-foot leash. Hike recommended for children at least ten years old.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.

December 10, 2018

Media contact: Delia Hernández, 503-422-7179, phd.communications@dhsoha.state.or.us

State agencies, counties send behavioral health staff members to Alaska

Health professionals will help kids cope with earthquake trauma

Oregon Health Authority and Polk, Washington and Yamhill counties sent seven behavioral health professionals to Alaska Sunday to assist with the state’s response to the Nov. 30 earthquake.

"We want to thank our county partners for joining us in assisting Alaska," said Akiko Saito, director of the Health Security, Preparedness and Response Section at the OHA Public Health Division. "This demonstrates the importance of partnership and working across boundaries."

The agencies and counties responded to Alaska’s request for behavioral health professionals to assist schools in helping kids deal with trauma from the earthquake.

"Children respond differently to disasters than adults", said Nicole Corbin, behavioral health manager at the OHA Health Systems Division. "Kids may have bad dreams, feel sick, have trouble concentrating and feel sad or angry."

"This assistance will help Alaska as they recover from the earthquake and the aftershocks," Saito said. "It also allows both states to learn and be more prepared for future events."

The Alaska earthquake is a reminder for all Oregonians they should prepare for the state’s own possible earthquake and other natural disasters. People can prepare themselves by becoming familiar with how to maintain emotional well-being after a disaster, coming up with an emergency plan, and having a preparedness kit with two weeks’ worth of supplies.

Health care professionals can help people in Oregon be more prepared as communities and a state by signing up for their local medical reserve corps and SERV-OR at https://serv-or.org.

# # #

SALEM, Ore. – The Child Welfare and Implementation Plan Steering Team meets Tuesday (December 18, 2018) from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Barbara Roberts Human Services Building, Room 137 A-D, 500 Summer St. NE, Salem. The meeting is open to the public.

Agenda items include: overview of all priority projects, enhanced community engagement project presentation, caregiver retention and support workgroup presentation and future agenda items.

Individuals unable to attend in person may call or attend via Skype. Conference line: 1-888-204-5984; Participant Code: 547-086.

If you want to follow the presentation online, please use the link to follow link: https://bit.ly/2B4KFXs

The meeting location is accessible to people with disabilities. For questions about accessibility or to request an accommodation, please contact Kelsi Eisele at 971-283-1628 or kelsi.p.eisele@state.or.us. Requests should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting. A good faith effort will be made to fulfill requests.

For questions about this meeting, please contact: Kelsi Eisele, Project Manager, at kelsi.p.eisele@state.or.us.

The ten identified priority projects, formally known as the Unified Child and Youth Safety Implementation Plan, were set by the steering team in March of 2017 and are now transitioning to the Child Welfare Program. This steering team provides oversight, adherence to goals, and will monitor and control projects.

                                                                                            # # #

Many locations in Central Oregon are reporting packed snow and ice on area highways.  Motorists advised to drive carefully during early morning hours.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: December 8, 2018

Released by: Sergeant Kent Vander Kamp

Sisters, OR – No injuries as driver mistakes accelerator for brake, crashes into Sisters store.

On December 8, 2018 at approximately 10:33AM, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to a motor vehicle crash in the parking lot of Common Threads, a clothing store, at 161 E Cascade Ave, Sisters.

DCSO Deputies arrived to find a silver 2012 Subaru Outback driven by Donald Zerbe, age 91 of Sisters, Oregon, had driven over the parking lot curb and through the front entrance of the store. The store was open and an employee was present. No one was injured.

An investigation determined Zerbe was attempting to park in front of clothing store when he mistook the accelerator for the brake pedal. The Subaru drove over the curb and into the store, causing substantial damage to the building and the store’s inventory.

Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District personnel arrive to assess Zerbe and the building. Zerbe was left the scene without injuries.

No citations have been issued.

CONTACT FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:   Sgt. William Bailey, Public Information Officer, 541-388-6655 or SheriffPIO@deschutes.org  

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is a full service organization providing patrol, criminal investigations, corrections, civil and search and rescue. Special operations include Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with four K9 units. Founded in 1916 and today directed by Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves the more than 185,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 230 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 180 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

###

Released by: Lt. Mike Biondi

Date of release: 12/07/2018

Driver 1: Smith, Cheryl - 71 years of age

Crooked River Ranch, Oregon

Vehicle 1: Silver 2000 Mercedes sedan 

Driver 2: Digby, Raymond - 30 year old male

Vehicle 2: White 2014 Ford Econoline van (Eberhard delivery van)

Location: NW Chinook Dr./NW 43rd St.

On 12/07/2018 at about 15:34 hours, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Redmond Fire Department personnel were dispatched NW Chinook Dr./NW 43rd St. for a two vehicle injury crash. 

Upon arrival, deputies located the the crash on NW Chinook Dr. approximately 1/2 mile west of NW 43rd St. with the entire roadway blocked.  Redmond Fire Department paramedics evaluated Smith who was transported via ground ambulance to St. Charles Medical Center - Bend with serious injuries.  Digby was also evaluated and transported via ground ambulance to St. Charles - Redmond with non-life threatening injuries. 

The investigation revealed Digby was traveling eastbound on NW Chinook Dr. and Smith was headed westbound.  For unknown reasons, Smith's vehicle crossed the double yellow center line and struck Digby's vehicle head on.   Deputies are still investigating possible contributing factors to the crash and are asking anyone who might have witnessed the crash to contact the Deschutes County 911 non-emergency number at 541-693-6911. 

The Oregon State Police assisted with the crash.  NW Chinook Dr. was either restricted to one lane or totally blocked for about 90 minutes.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is a full service organization providing patrol, criminal investigations, corrections, civil and search and rescue. Special operations include SWAT, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with four K9 units. Founded in 1916 and today directed by Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves the more than 185,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 230 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 180 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

## End of Release ##

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Brandon Sean Smithson died on December 6, 2018. He was incarcerated at Two Rivers Correctional Institution (TRCI). He passed away at a Portland area hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified and the Medical Examiner will determine cause of death. 

Brandon Sean Smithson entered DOC custody on June 4, 1999 from Multnomah County. His earliest release date was July 31, 2025. He was 45 years old. 

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of 14,900 men and women who are incarcerated in the 14 institutions across the state. Next of kin has been notified.

TRCI is a multi-custody prison in Umatilla that houses approximately 1,800 male inmates. TRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including institution and industrial laundry, mattress manufacturing, and sewing. Other institution work programs include reparation and cleaning of irrigation ditches, maintenance of local baseball fields, and work with local cities and the Hermiston School District. The facility provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, religious services, and behavioral health services. TRCI opened in 2000.

Oregon winter weather is starting to set in across Oregon. Are you prepared? With the increase chances of snow, freezing rain, and ice on the roadways it is more important than ever to #Knowbeforeyougo.

Checking www.tripcheck.com is the best way to get information on highway closures/construction, minimum chain requirements and road conditions utilizing their traffic cameras.

Those traveling in lower elevations, expect rain and wet roadways.  Which means you will need to increase your following distances due to decreased traction on those wet roads.

OSP is also urges all motorists to plan their travels by: 

• Be prepared in the event you become stuck during your travels- Carry water, food, and blankets in the event you are stuck in your vehicle during your trip
• Put the distractions away. Pull over to use that handheld electronic device, ask as passenger to help or wait to arrive at your destination to use them.
• Watch your speed; often speeding will not get you to your destination any faster. You will fatigue faster, burn more fuel, and create a more hazardous environment on the highway.
• Be extra vigilant in highway work zones. Even when workers are not present, all work zone speed limits still apply and fines double. Inactive work zones still have equipment, detours, and incomplete changes in the roadway so drivers need to slow down and be alert.
• Get rested before you travel. Fatigued drivers are more frequent during holiday weekends because of increased travel and activity. Be patient and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
• Wear your safety belt. Ensure your passengers and children are properly restrained too. We see too many crashes were people would have walked away with minor in any injuries.
• Get a designated driver (plan ahead) if you plan on consuming intoxicating substances.

Our partners at Oregon Department of Transportation recently reminded drivers about the dangers of not checking the roads before you go and only utilizing GPS. When roads are closed and your navigation systems direct you onto a detour route, keep in mind that the device you count on for guidance could instead guide you into trouble. http://bit.ly/2rp6ufP

December 7, 2018

Contact: Allyson Hagen, 503-449-6457, allyson.hagen@state.or.us (media inquiries)

Pete Edlund, 503-559-2216, .m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

All Payer All Claims Technical Advisory Group meets December 13 in Portland

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Health Authority’s All Payer All Claims Technical Advisory Group.

When: December 13, 2-4 p.m.

Where: 421 SW Oak St, Suite 850, Abraham Room, Portland. Attendees also can join remotely through a webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6730937893581997569 and conference line at 877-810-9415, access code 1773452#.

Agenda: Introduction and meeting goals; general updates; 2020 administrative rule draft edits, public comments,

For more information, please visit the committee's website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/ANALYTICS/Pages/All-Payer-All-Claims-TAG.aspx.  

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Pete Edlund at 503-559-2216, 711 TTY, .m.edlund@state.or.us">peter.m.edlund@state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

(Salem) – A two-day training conference in central Oregon will focus on the safety and health of workers in residential, commercial, and industrial construction. The Jan. 28-29 Mid-Oregon Construction Safety Summit will offer discussions of everything from fall protection and ladder safety to excavation hazards and prevention of pipeline damage.

Oregon’s Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA), a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, encourages employers and workers to attend the 18th annual summit at the Riverhouse on the Deschutes Convention Center in Bend.

The summit’s keynote speakers are Russ and Laurel Youngstrom, co-owners of Youngstrom Safety in the Seattle area. The Youngstroms are safety advocates and motivational speakers. In 1995, Russ Youngstrom, who was working for a painting company, fell from a scaffold and severed his spinal cord. The accident left him a paraplegic and changed the family’s life forever.

The Youngstroms have dedicated their lives to sharing their tragic experience in hopes that others will benefit from hearing their story. Their Jan. 29 keynote presentation, “It Won’t Happen to Me,” will emphasize the importance of personal accountability in workplace safety by offering two different perspectives on the permanent and ongoing consequences of ignoring safety precautions.

Russ Youngstrom said the attitude that ignores putting safety first can be summed up in two phrases: “It’s not worth it” and “I’ve got this.” Laurel Youngstrom said accidents affect families and friends. “You don’t want your family to get that phone call,” she said. “Being unsafe is selfish.”

The construction safety summit also offers opportunities for attendees to earn continuing education credits through Oregon’s Construction Contractors Board and Landscape Contractors Board. Certification and re-certification will be offered for first aid personnel and workzone flaggers. Moreover, the OSHA 10-hour training for construction certification will be offered.

The two-day summit’s other workshops include:

• Construction A-Z. This session reviews the many hazards found in construction and demolition, and the best practices – and requirements – for correcting them.
• Scaffold user training.
• Planning for safety, every phase.
• Asbestos and lead awareness.
• Defensive driving strategies for central Oregon.
• Hand/power tools and personal protective equipment.

Registration for pre-conference workshops (Monday, Jan. 28) is $50. Conference registration (Tuesday, Jan. 29) is $85. Registration for the OSHA 10-hour training for construction is $140 for both days.

To register, go to http://safetyseries.cvent.com/events/2019. If you have questions or need help registering, call the Oregon OSHA Conference Section, 503-947-7411.

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About Oregon OSHA:

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

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

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) invites Oregonians outdoors on New Year’s Day for the annual First Day Hikes event. Visitors can choose from 32 hikes in 31 parks across the state. All hikes will be guided by a park ranger or volunteer who will share stories about the park’s history, geology, wildlife and plants. 

All hikes are free; day-use parking fees will be waived at all participating parks Jan. 1 only.

Hikers can register for specific hikes online at the Oregon State Parks Store: bit.ly/ParkStoreEvents. While online registration isn’t required for participation, visitors are encouraged to register. It helps park staff plan the hike and provides them with participant contact information should hike details change.

OPRD advises visitors to plan for inclement weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and remember to carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.

OPRD has sponsored First Day Hikes annually since 2012, part of a larger national event organized by America’s State Parks.

Participating parks and meeting areas are below. Full details for each hike are also on bit.ly/ParkStoreEvents.

PORTLAND

• L.L. Stub Stewart State Park: 10 a.m., meet at Hilltop Day-use area.
• Tryon Creek State Park: 9 a.m., meet at the nature center.

COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE

• Deschutes River State Recreation Area: 9 a.m., meet at Oregon Trail kiosk.
• Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail: 1 p.m., meet at Mark O. Hatfield Visitors Center West trailhead.
• Latourell Falls (Guy W. Talbot State Park): 10 a.m., meet at Latourell Falls parking lot.
• Starvation Creek State Park: 10 a.m., meet at Starvation Creek Falls trailhead.

WILLAMETTE VALLEY/CASCADES

• Champoeg State Heritage Area: 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., meet at the visitor center.
• Dexter State Recreation Site: 11:00 a.m., meet at the information kiosk for disc golf.
• Elijah Bristow State Park: noon, meet at the equestrian parking area for horse riding (bring your own horse.)
• Fort Yamhill State Heritage Area: 11 a.m., meet at the main parking lot.
• Silver Falls State Park: 10 a.m., meet at South Falls Lodge porch.

COAST

• Bullards Beach State Park: 1 p.m., meet at the meeting hall.
• Cape Lookout State Park: noon, meet in the Lookout Trailhead parking lot.
• Fort Stevens State Park: 10 a.m., meet at parking lot A.
• Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park: 10 a.m., meet at Cleawox Lodge.
• Oswald West State Park: 8 a.m., meet at Elk Flats Trail parking lot. Parking is limited; please arrive early, carpool, or use another nearby lot.
• Port Orford Heads State Park: 1 p.m., meet at Port Orford Heads lifeboat.
• South Beach State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the park day-use area.
• Umpqua Lighthouse State Park: 10 a.m., meet at Lake Marie swim area.
• Whale Watch Center at Depoe Bay: 10 a.m., meet at the Whale Watch Center.

SOUTHERN OREGON

• Collier Memorial State Park: 9 a.m., meet at Logging Museum parking lot.
• Joseph H. Stewart State Recreation Area: 11 a.m., meet at the group camp.
• OC & E Woods State Line Trail: 9 a.m., meet at Switchbacks trailhead.
• TouVelle State Park: 1 p.m., meet at TouVelle area F parking lot.
• Valley of the Rogue State Park: 1 p.m., meet at Valley of the Rogue program area.

EASTERN/CENTRAL OREGON

• Cottonwood Canyon State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the experience center.
• Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area: 11 a.m., meet at the day-use parking lot (right of park entrance.)
• LaPine State Park: 11 a.m., meet at south loop.
• Smith Rock State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the welcome center.
• Tumalo State Park: 11 a.m., meet at Deschutes River Trail trailhead, near the day-use parking lot.
• Wallowa Lake State Park: 10:30 a.m., meet at the parking area across from the south entrance of Iwetemlaykin State Heritage Site.

More information about participating parks, including maps and directions, is on oregonstateparks.org.