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Bend/Central-Eastern Oregon News Releases for Sun. Feb. 16 - 1:39 am
Fri. 02/14/25
Super Bowl LIX Drives Record Sports Wagers for Oregon Lottery
Oregon Lottery - 02/14/25 10:57 AM

Salem, Ore. -- Oregonians placed more than 456,000 bets through Oregon Lottery's DraftKings Sportsbook during Sunday's big game -- setting a new record for any single sports event. Wagers for the Super Bowl totaled $8.26 million, with the average wager coming in at $18.11.

 

"This Super Bowl generated more than $2.8 million in revenue for Oregon, the most for a single sports event since we launched sports betting," said Kerry Hemphill, Oregon Lottery sports betting products manager. "Prop bets performed strong, and the Eagles' overwhelming win was unexpected."   

 

Players had more than 1,100 "prop bets" to choose from such as who would be named MVP, which team would make the first touchdown, and more. Below are results of some of the prop bets:

  • On the coin toss, 9,375 bets were placed and 5,120 won the wager for the Chiefs to win the toss.

  • Of 8,979 bets, 981 correctly picked the Gatorade color as yellow. 

The player with the biggest win of the day was a customer from Eugene who placed a $25 bet on a 13 leg multi-sport parlay, ending up on the Eagles -6.5 points. That wager resulted in a $49,370 win.

 

Oregon saw close to a 9% increase in the number of unique, active players who placed a wager on the gaming platform from 2024. Last year, Oregon players placed 424,812 bets valued at $7.7 million. Oregon Lottery debuted online sports betting in October 2019.

 

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

 

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned nearly $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.

Melanie Mesaros
Oregon Lottery
971-719-0464
Melanie.Mesaros@lottery.oregon.gov

Mid-Columbia Lions Follies Celebrates 45th Year with Unforgettable Show - “Back to the Follies” (Photo)
Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation - 02/14/25 10:56 AM
Mid Columbia Lions Follies
Mid Columbia Lions Follies
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/1832/179042/FB_IMG_1738602589544.jpg

For Immediate Release -

 

Hood River-- February 14, 2025 -- The Mid-Columbia Lions Follies is back for its 45th year, and under the direction of Bev Bridgewater--who has led the show since its inception--this year's production, "Back to the Follies", promises to be a must-see event. The show will be held at the Hood River Middle School Auditorium on February 28, March 1, 2, 7, and 8, with a 2:00 pm matinee on Sunday, March 3.

The Follies has been a beloved community tradition, and with over $420,000 raised for the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation (OLSHF), it continues to have a significant impact on sight and hearing services across the state. The event supports various programs, including vision screenings in schools in Hood River and Wasco Counties, where more than 16% of students require sight support.

"After 45 years of directing the Follies, I continue to be amazed by the community's generosity," said Bev Bridgewater. "It's been a joy to see the event evolve over the years, and we are thrilled to continue offering exciting performances while raising funds to support the important work of the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation."

This year, the Follies will continue its popular digital screen feature, which highlights sponsors and advertisers during intermission. New this year, Platinum Sponsors will receive a special shout-out during the performance, in addition to being featured on the digital screen.

Sponsorship and Advertising Opportunities:

The Mid-Columbia Lions Follies is offering multiple ways for individuals and businesses to participate:

  • Friends of the Follies: $50 and up -- Named in the program and featured on the digital screen during intermission
  • Silver Sponsor: $250 and up -- Program advertising and featured on the digital screen during intermission
  • Gold Sponsor: $500 and up -- Program advertising and featured on the digital screen during intermission
  • Platinum Sponsor: $1,000 and up -- Logo on the back cover, special shout-out during the show, and featured on the digital screen

Advertising in the Program:

  • 1/16-page ad: $100
  • 1/8-page ad: $200
  • Full-page ad: $400

The Mid-Columbia Lions Follies partners with the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation (OLSHF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to manage all financial transactions and accept donations on behalf of the show. Sponsorships are tax-deductible, less the fair market value of the advertising. A donation receipt for tax purposes will be issued by OLSHF after the annual production. Purchase tickets, advertising, sponsorships or t-shirts at https://olshf.org/lions-follies.


About the Mid-Columbia Lions Follies:

The Mid-Columbia Lions Follies, under the direction of Bev Bridgewater, is a long-standing community event that brings together local talent to raise funds for the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation. All proceeds from the Follies go directly to supporting programs that improve sight and hearing services across Oregon.

About the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation (OLSHF):

OLSHF is dedicated to addressing preventable blindness and hearing loss through a variety of programs, including school vision screenings, eyeglass assistance, and hearing aids for those in need.

 

For more information, press only:

Bev Bridgewater

541-561-5590

bbridge@oregontrail.net

https://olshf.org/lions-follies

 

# # #

Bev Bridgewater

541-561-5590

Bbridge@oregontrail.net



Attached Media Files: Mid Columbia Lions Follies

Oregon employers, workers invited to take a ‘Safety Break’ May 14 (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 02/14/25 10:02 AM
Oregon-OSHA-logo-green (1).jpg
Oregon-OSHA-logo-green (1).jpg
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/1073/179038/Oregon-OSHA-logo-green_(1).jpg

It's a day to recognize employer and worker successes in creating and maintaining safe and healthy workplaces. It's a day to speak up about addressing workplace hazards and to focus on employee participation and feedback. It's a day to reflect on what is going well and what can be improved, and, with renewed effort, to develop plans to minimize or eliminate workplace hazards.

 

Employers and workers across the state are invited to take part in Safety Break for Oregon, coordinated by Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (Oregon OSHA), a division of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services. The annual event -- now in its 22nd year -- offers an opportunity to employers, supervisors, and workers in a variety of industries across Oregon to celebrate their safety and health achievements, and to examine and discuss their efforts to protect people from harm while on the job. 

 

Will you take the Wednesday, May 14, stand-down as a time to refresh your knowledge and training? Will you conduct an assessment of where safety and health could be improved at your workplace? Or will you celebrate your successes, including showing appreciation for safety committee members and emerging safety leaders?

 

Perhaps your answer is "yes" to all of the above. How you honor Safety Break is up to you.  Sign up now. You could win a $100 prize.

 

"We encourage employers across all types of industries to pause their operations and put a spotlight on the critical importance of building a culture of safety and health in the workplace," said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA. "Safety Break for Oregon is an event that brings employers and employees together to engage in open conversations about safety and health, and to identify proven methods for protecting workers from injury and illness."

 

Oregon OSHA encourages employers and workers to share their Safety Break activities on social media; tag Oregon OSHA on Facebook and LinkedIn with #SafetyBreak.

 

As you celebrate Safety Break for Oregon, Oregon OSHA encourages you to use the division's free resources. If you want free and confidential help reviewing and improving your safety and health program, contact our consultation services. If you have questions about how to apply Oregon OSHA rules to your workplace, contact our technical specialists for free. Moreover, Oregon OSHA offers many free education and training resources that you may want to use as part of your Safety Break for Oregon activity.

 

Employers that sign up online by Friday, May 9, and participate in Safety Break for Oregon will be entered to win one of three $100 checks to be used for a luncheon of their choice.

 

The prizes will go to participating companies as part of a random drawing. The Oregon SHARP Alliance sponsors the contest. The nonprofit group promotes safety and health management by encouraging teamwork and cooperation among people, employers, and organizations to improve workplace health and safety for Oregon workers.

 

Get Safety Break ideas, logos, sample awards, and other free resources by visiting the Safety Break for Oregon website.

###

 

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.

 

 

Aaron Corvin
Public Information Officer
971-718-6973
Aaron.corvin@dcbs.oregon.gov



Attached Media Files: Oregon-OSHA-logo-green (1).jpg , DCBS-logo-blue.jpg , SBFOLogo-3c-642x600.png

Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee meets virtually on Feb. 21
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 02/14/25 9:02 AM

SALEM, Ore. -- The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee will meet virtually on Friday, Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

 

The committee's agenda includes:

  • Personnel/staffing updates

  • Planning context

  • Modeling updates

  • Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) updates/new information

 

Public comment is scheduled at the beginning of the meeting. To submit written comment, email ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov. Written comments sent at least 48 hours before the meeting will give the FTLAC time to review and consider information. Comments submitted after that window of time will be sent to the FTLAC after the meeting, entered into the record and posted online. Comments are not accepted after the meeting concludes.

 

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov" target="_blank">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

 

The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee is comprised of seven county commissioners representing 15 Oregon counties where state forestlands are located. The FTLAC is a statutorily established committee that advises the Board of Forestry on matters related to forestland managed by ODF. View more information on the FTLAC webpage.

Committee Assistant, Ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov

Thu. 02/13/25
Fatal Crash -- Highway 395 -- Umatilla County
Oregon State Police - 02/13/25 5:00 PM

UMATILLA COUNTY, Ore. 13 Feb. 2025 -- On Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025, at 2:22 p.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to a three-vehicle crash on Hwy. 395 near Hermiston.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Ford Ranger, operated by Hector Singleterry (62) of Hermiston, was traveling southbound on Hwy. 395 near milepost 3.5 when it gradually crossed the special turn lane into the northbound travel lanes. The vehicle crossed both northbound lanes and went off the highway, colliding with a parked unoccupied white Chevy Express van. The Chevy van then struck a parked white Chevy Cobalt with two occupants.   

 

The Ford operator (Singleterry) is believed to have experienced a medical emergency. CPR was attempted without success and Singleterry was declared deceased at the scene.

 

The occupants of the Chevy Cobalt were not injured.  

 

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.

 

OSP was assisted by the Umatilla County Sheriff's Office, Umatilla County Fire District 1, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon's highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. Members receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Oregon State Police
Public Information Officer
Osppio@osp.oregon.gov

Providence Threatens to Cut Healthcare for Nurses and Their Families
Oregon Nurses Assn. - 02/13/25 4:51 PM

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - Providence sent an email to striking nurses today threatening to cut healthcare for striking nurses and their families starting February 28. This comes less than 24 hours after ONA and registered nurses (RNs) from eight hospitals unilaterally reopened negotiations with Providence following nearly a week of silence from the $30 billion healthcare corporation.

 

Threatening to strip health insurance from nurses and their families, including children, while delaying and prolonging contract negotiations, is shameful and inexcusable. This callous action underscores Providence's prioritization of profits over the well-being of caregivers and the patients they serve.

 

Rather than punishing nurses and jeopardizing lives, Providence executives--who earn millions in salaries--should focus on settling a fair contract. 

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) Represents A Diverse Community Of More Than 23,000 Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Throughout Oregon. Together, We Use Our Collective Power To Advocate For Critical Issues Impacting Patients, Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Including A More Effective, Affordable And Accessible Healthcare System; Better Working Conditions For All Health Care Professionals; And Healthier Communities. For More Information Visit Www.OregonRN.org.

Peter Starzynski, Starzynski@OregonRN.org, 503-960-7989
Scott Palmer, Palmer@OregonRN.org, 503-516-4840

OSP responds to multiple weather-related crashes on Interstate 84
Oregon State Police - 02/13/25 4:39 PM

 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. 13 Feb. 2025 -- On Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 10:45 a.m. Oregon State Police (OSP) responded with local law enforcement and first responders to multiple crashes on Interstate 84 (I-84) westbound near milepost 35 about three miles west of Multnomah Falls.
 

Preliminary reports indicate numerous factors, such as icy and slick roads, limited visibility, and near-white-out conditions, contributed to the crashes. Oregon State Troopers responded to eight separate crashes, and four individuals were transported to local hospitals with minor injuries. Local law enforcement also responded to an unknown number of crashes. The total number of vehicles involved is not known at this time.
 

I-84 westbound is not yet completely open; however, traffic is starting to flow through the area. Much of the area remains under winter storm warning through 10 a.m. Friday. Residents are encouraged to postpone travel until weather conditions improve. If you must travel, visit tripcheck.com for current weather and road conditions.


# # #

  
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. 

Oregon State Police
Public Information Officer
Osppio@osp.oregon.gov

Traffic Stop in La Pine Yields Nearly 5lbs. of Methamphetamine (Photo)
Deschutes County Sheriff's Office - 02/13/25 4:17 PM
meth stop
meth stop
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/5227/179018/mr_3_new.jpg

Released By: Sergeant Jason Wall

 

Release Date: February 13, 2025

 

Location: 51370 Highway 97, La Pine, Oregon

 

Arrested: Reed, Ronald Dale, 61-year-old male, Bend

 

Charges: ORS 475.894 Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine, ORS 475.890 Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine

 

Narrative:

 

On February 12th, 2025, a Deschutes County Sheriff's Office deputy conducted a routine traffic stop for a speed violation in La Pine. During the course of the traffic stop the deputy established reasonable suspicion there was controlled substances located in the vehicle.

 

The deputy requested a narcotics K-9, who responded to the scene. The narcotics K-9 alerted to the presence of a controlled substance in the vehicle. A search warrant was applied for and granted, subsequently a commercial quantity, approximately 5lbs of methamphetamine was located inside the vehicle.

 

Reed was taken into custody without incident and lodged at the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Adult Jail on the above listed charges.

 

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is a full-service agency that oversees the adult jail, provides patrol, criminal investigations, civil process and search and rescue operations. Special units include SWAT, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with five K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff Kent van der Kamp, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office serves over 200,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 259 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 193 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

Sergeant Jason Wall
Jason.wall@deschutes.org



Attached Media Files: meth stop

Thousands of ONA Members are Waiting—Yet Again—For Providence to Step Up
Oregon Nurses Assn. - 02/13/25 2:47 PM

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - Nurses from eight Providence registered nurse (RN) bargaining units are calling on Providence to step up and take meaningful action in ongoing contract negotiations. Despite the Oregon Nurses Association's (ONA's) readiness to meet and provide solutions, Providence continues to fail to address key priorities, leaving nurses--and the patients we serve--waiting for them to step up.

 

Last night, eight RN bargaining units presented a comprehensive supposal that reflects clear priorities from frontline nurses, based on detailed member surveys. These priorities include:

  • Backpay for overdue wage increases to recognize the hard work and dedication of nurses who have been working without a contract; some for more than 13 months. 
  • Common expiration dates to ensure the ability to bargain over permanent improvements and to stand together to stave off attempts at further takeaways. 
  • Improved pay incentives to address vacant shifts and ensure patients receive the care they deserve, even during staffing shortages. 
  • Systemwide solutions to address sub-standard health care benefits.  
  • Improved paid time off policies to allow nurses the rest and recovery they need to continue providing top-quality care patients deserve.  

"Our members couldn't be clearer about what's necessary," said Kathy Keane, a nurse and ONA leader from Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. "Providence has consistently delayed and ignored these critical priorities. The overwhelming rejection of previous tentative agreements across all eight RN bargaining units should send a loud and resounding message: Providence must come back to the table and meet the needs of nurses and our patients."

 

Nurses remain united and steadfast in their commitment to securing a fair agreement. The supposals passed by our bargaining units clearly outline what it will take to resolve these issues.

 

"Providence has stalled for far too long," Keane continued. "It's time for them to get their act together and provide real solutions. Our nurses, patients, and communities deserve nothing less."

 

ONA is ready to meet--at any time--but the lack of engagement from Providence highlights the employer's failure to take these negotiations seriously ... again.  

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) Represents A Diverse Community Of More Than 23,000 Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Throughout Oregon. Together, We Use Our Collective Power To Advocate For Critical Issues Impacting Patients, Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Including A More Effective, Affordable And Accessible Healthcare System; Better Working Conditions For All Health Care Professionals; And Healthier Communities. For More Information Visit Www.OregonRN.org.

Peter Starzynski, Starzynski@OregonRN.org, 503-960-7989
Scott Palmer, Palmer@OregonRN.org, 503-516-4840

Oregon Emergency Coordination Center Activates to Level 3 in Response to Severe Winter Weather
Oregon Dept. of Emerg. Management - 02/13/25 2:42 PM

SALEM, Ore.-- The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has activated the State Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) to Level 3 (Regional Response) in response to a winter storm forecasted to impact much of Western Oregon from the evening of Feb. 12 through Feb. 14. The National Weather Service predicts a strong potential for snow and freezing rain, which may lead to treacherous travel conditions, road closures, power outages, and the need for temporary warming shelters. 

 

Multiple jurisdictional emergency operations centers across the state are activated, and OEM is coordinating with local, Tribal and state partners to monitor impacts and support response efforts as needed. The Level 3 activation allows OEM to maintain situational awareness, facilitate information-sharing and support resource requests from local jurisdictions. 

 

People in Oregon are urged to take precautions during the storm: 

  • Stay informed: Check local weather forecasts and sign up for emergency alerts through ORalert.gov. View the latest Hazard Situation Overview for real-time impacts and response efforts. 

  • Avoid travel if possible: Roads may become hazardous due to ice and snow. If travel is necessary, carry an emergency kit, chains, and extra supplies.  

  • If you do need to leave the house: Check TripCheck.com to know the latest road conditions, and make sure you are caring a shovel and have an emergency car kit. Read more about how to prepare for winter driving on the OEM blog. 

  • Prepare for power outages: Have flashlights, batteries, and a backup heat source ready. Never use generators or grills indoors due to carbon monoxide risks. 

  • Check on neighbors: Ensure vulnerable individuals have what they need to stay safe and warm. 

  • Know where to go to get warm: Warming shelters are listed at Oregon 211. 

Sign up to receive the latest news directly from OEM. To find out more preparedness tips, like how to Be2Weeks Ready for disasters, visit Oregon.gov/OEM. 

### 

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licinfo@oem.oregon.gov" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">OEM_publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov or dial 711. 

Media Line: 503-934-3310 Or OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov

Snake River Correctional Institution reports in-custody death (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Corrections - 02/13/25 12:40 PM
George W. Gebrayel
George W. Gebrayel
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/1070/179006/Gebrayel_G.jpg

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, George W. Gebrayel, died February 13, 2025. Gebrayel was incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution (SRCI) in Ontario and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

 

Gebrayel entered DOC custody on April 5, 2024, from Yamhill County with an earliest release date of June 22, 2038. Gebrayel was 81 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 individuals who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

 

SRCI is a multi-custody prison in Ontario that houses approximately 3,000 adults in custody. SRCI has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, intensive management, infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care, and an administrative segregation unit. SRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including a contact center, laundry, and sign shop. SRCI specializes in incentive housing, specialized housing, individuals with mental health/medical vulnerabilities, education and trades programs, cognitive and parenting programs, and institution work programs. SRCI opened in 1991 and is the largest correctional institution in the state.

 

####

 

Amber Campbell, 458-224-4390, Amber.R.Campbell@doc.oregon.gov
Betty Bernt, 971-719-3521, Betty.A.Bernt@doc.oregon.gov



Attached Media Files: George W. Gebrayel

First ODVA Veterans Advisory Committee Quarterly Meeting of 2025 to Be Held Virtually on March 5
Ore. Department of Veterans' Affairs - 02/13/25 11:00 AM

The first 2025 meeting of the Veterans Advisory Committee to the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA) will be held virtually Wednesday, March 5. The meeting begins at 9:30 a.m. and will be followed by a town hall meeting at 11 a.m., which is open to the public.

 

Established in 1945, the Veterans Advisory Committee holds a distinct and fundamental role in advising the director and staff of ODVA. The nine members of the Veterans Advisory Committee are military veterans from all corners of the state, appointed by the governor to serve and act as advocates for veteran issues and veteran concerns across Oregon.

 

Following every quarterly business meeting, the committee holds a town hall inviting the public to raise questions or concerns about broad veteran issues or to share information with the committee and agency director.

 

Members of the community are also invited to submit written public comments to the committee by emailing odva_vaac@odva.oregon.gov. The Advisory Committee meets quarterly on the first Wednesday of March, June, September and December.

 

REGISTER TO ATTEND
Please register at https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/6ccab6da-9e7b-427b-93fd-a1c575ac839b@aa3f6932-fa7c-47b4-a0ce-a598cad161cf to attend the business or town hall portion of this meeting. Attendees will be allowed to participate during the town hall portion only and will be invited to turn on their camera and unmute mics during a recorded meeting that will be posted online at a later date.

 

Information about the Veterans Advisory Committee and meeting materials can be found online at www.oregon.gov/odva/Connect/Pages/Advisory-Committee.aspx.

 

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon's diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or Tribal veteran services office online at oregon.gov/odva.

 

###

Tyler Francke, Tyler.francke@odva.oregon.gov, 971-239-6640

Wed. 02/12/25
Fatal Crash -- Highway 22 -- Marion County
Oregon State Police - 02/12/25 4:01 PM

MARION COUNTY, Ore. 12 Feb. 2025 -- On Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025, at 12:39 p.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy. 22 near milepost 40 in Marion County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a blue Ford Ranger, operated by Phillip Craig Tramontana (72) of Idanha, was traveling westbound in the eastbound lane to pass several vehicles. The Ranger was unable to return to the westbound lane before reaching a white Subaru Outback, operated by Aidan Michael Sowder-Sinor (20) of Logan, Utah, traveling eastbound. Both vehicles swerved into a gravel area on the south side of the highway and collided head-on.

The operator of the Ford (Tramontana) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Subaru (Sowder-Sinor) was transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Marion County Sheriff's Office, Gates Fire Department, Idanha Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

# # #


About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon's highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. Its members receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Oregon State Police
Public Information Officer
Osppio@osp.oregon.gov

Fatal Crash -- Highway 569 -- Lane County
Oregon State Police - 02/12/25 3:14 PM

LANE COUNTY, Ore. 12 Feb. 2025 -- On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 3:15 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Hwy. 569 near the Hwy. 99 off-ramp.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Toyota Tundra, operated by Jose Maria Perez Mata (35) of Eugene, was traveling eastbound on Hwy. 569 when it failed to negotiate the Hwy. 99 off-ramp and continued off the roadway. The vehicle made a sudden turning maneuver, causing it to cross the off-ramp and roll over. The vehicle came to rest on the roadway.
 

The operator (Perez Mata) was declared deceased at the scene. Perez Mata was the sole occupant of the vehicle.
 

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

OSP was assisted by the Eugene Police Department, Eugene Spring Fire Department, Lane County Medical Examiner's Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #
 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 

The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon's highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists, and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Oregon State Police
Public Information Officer
Osppio@osp.oregon.gov

Sweet Danger: THC-Infused Taffy Ring Shut Down (Photo)
Deschutes County Sheriff's Office - 02/12/25 1:49 PM
marijuana products
marijuana products
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/5227/178971/DSCN0482.JPG

Released By: Sergeant Jason Wall

 

Release Date: February 12, 2025

 

Location: 400 block of SE Franklin Avenue, Bend, 1200 block of Discovery Park Drive, Bend

 

Arrested: Savino, Trischa, 29-year-old female, Bend

 

Charges: ORS 475C.345(2)(a) Attempted Unlawful Delivery of a Marijuana Item (B Misdemeanor)

 

Arrested: Nobel, Peter, 29-year-old male, male

 

Charges: ORS 475.904 MCS/ Attempted DCS Controlled Substance Schedule 1 (Psilocybin) within 1000' of school (A Felony)

ORS 475C.349 (3)(b)(A) Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana Item (C Felony)

ORS 475C.337 (3)(c)(B) PCS Marijuana >8lbs (C Felony)

ORS 475.752 (3)(A) PCS Schedule 1 (B Misdemeanor)

ORS 475C.345(2)(a) Attempted Unlawful Delivery of a Marijuana Item (B Misdemeanor)

 

Narrative:

 

At 8:30am on January 24th, 2025, Detectives with the Deschutes County Illegal Marijuana Market Enforcement (DCIMME) team executed two search warrants in the 400 Block of SE Franklin Avenue and 1200 Block of Discovery Park Drive. This long-term investigation covered a wide range of cannabis products to include:

  • Edibles: Food products infused with marijuana, like gummies, chocolates, or baked goods.
  • Rosin: A concentrated form of cannabis extracted using heat and pressure.
  • Capsules: Marijuana oil or other extracts enclosed in a capsule for oral consumption.
  • Flower: The dried buds of the marijuana plant, which are typically smoked or vaporized.

The suspects were producing candy products, in this case, taffy infused with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in marijuana.

 

Items seized during the search warrant:

 

Equipment - 1 rosin press, 2 pill/capsule fillers, packaging materials

Marijuana plants = 74

Marijuana processed (includes 82 pre-rolled marijuana joints) = 26.14 pounds

Marijuana concentrate (rosin, isolates) = 4,550 grams

Marijuana edibles (taffys & pills) = 3,870 grams

Marijuana liquid (bottles of liquids infused w/ THC) = 2.05 grams

Marijuana seeds = 100+

Psilocybin = 335.66 grams

Psilocybin edibles (includes taffy & pills) = 996 grams

U.S. Currency = $1080

 

These mentioned items were packaged for sale and evidence of out of county distribution into the black market was located. The suspect producing these illegal marijuana items was manipulating the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program by using his medical marijuana product to produce his edibles for financial gain. The male suspect was found to be growing in excess of what he was medically allowed to grow. 

 

Both arrestee's were issued criminal citations to appear on the above listed charges.

 

This investigation highlights law enforcement efforts to combat the illegal marijuana market, which can pose risks to public health and safety due to the lack of regulation and quality control.

 

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is a full-service agency that oversees the adult jail, provides patrol, criminal investigations, civil process and search and rescue operations. Special units include SWAT, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with five K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff Kent van der Kamp, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office serves over 200,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 259 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 193 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

Sergeant Jason Wall
Jason.wall@deschutes.org



Attached Media Files: marijuana products , marijuana products , marijuana products

Oregon State Penitentiary reports in-custody death (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Corrections - 02/12/25 10:53 AM
Adam A. Green
Adam A. Green
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/1070/178964/Green_A.jpg

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Adam Alexander Green, died February 11, 2025. Green was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away at a local hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

 

Green entered DOC custody on November 14, 2024, from Wasco County with a projected release date of April 17, 2026. Green was 26 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.

 

####

Betty Bernt, 971-719-3521, Betty.A.Bernt@doc.oregon.gov
Amber Campbell, 458-224-4390, Amber.R.Campbell@doc.oregon.gov



Attached Media Files: Adam A. Green

Watch for elk along U.S. 395 between Pendleton and Pilot Rock
ODOT: East. Ore. - 02/12/25 10:28 AM

Motorists are advised to slow down and watch for elk along U.S. 395, particularly between mileposts 9 and 15 (1 mile north of Spring Creek Road and Pilot Rock). Recent cold weather has driven elk to lower elevations. Warning signs have been installed at both ends of this section to remind drivers to exercise extra caution, especially at night, and to reduce their speed.

Vicki Moles, 541-620-4527, Vicki.l.moles@odot.oregon.gov

Providence's Latest Statement Is Full of BS ... (Bad Statistics)
Oregon Nurses Assn. - 02/12/25 10:09 AM

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - Providence's latest attempt to spin the truth is nothing more than a smokescreen to distract from the real issues nurses and patients face every day. Let's cut through the BS (Providence's bad statistics!):

 

1.) "Market-Competitive" Compensation? Let's Be Honest. 

 

Providence wants you to believe that the "typical nurse will be making a $150,000 base salary." 

 

Spoiler alert: The "typical" nurse will not. 

 

Spoiler alert 2: There is no such thing as a "typical" nurse. Some nurses work full time, some work part time (some work part time at Providence and part time at another health system), some work per diem, some work nights and holidays, some are preceptors, and sometimes nurses are "on call." 

 

The facts: the median annual wage for a nurse at Providence in the final year of the rejected tentative agreement would be as much as $62,000 dollars less than the $150,000 Providence is claiming they would make.

 

Additionally, the wage offers to the Providence hospital RNs who make the most money still lagged the market by 4.3%. The gap between Providence's offer and a "competitive wage" for all the other bargaining units was even larger.

 

Providence's bad statistics simply do not add up.

 

2. Staffing Crisis? Providence Is in Denial. 

 

Pointing to 650 nurses hired over the last three years to falsely claim they have no staffing crisis is laughable. The figure proves nothing.

 

The fact is that Providence, as well as hospitals elsewhere, hemorrhaged demoralized and exhausted nurses during and after the pandemic. Providence's efforts to replace them and meet the growing demand for nurses during that time collapsed. The corporation has needed to play catchup since. Its recent hiring figures are unremarkable and entirely consistent with growth in the RN workforce overall in Oregon and expansion of the hospital workforce throughout the state recently. 

 

Staffing at Oregon's Providence hospitals continues to be insufficient. Observe the more than 300 staffing complaints filed with the Oregon Health Authority since last July and you get a clear picture of a hospital system in crisis, where patient safety is at risk due to inadequate staffing levels, hobbled by recruitment and retention problems.

 

3. Health Care Costs? Executives Can Afford It--Nurses Can't. 

 

Providence said, "Bargaining unit nurses receive the same medical benefits package provided to their colleagues, including senior executives..."

 

Executives raking in millions can absorb rising out-of-pocket health care costs and higher premiums easily - but frontline nurses can't. For instance, consider the impact of the out-of-pocket costs on Providence Executives versus frontline caregivers:   

 
Example One: One of Providence Oregon's Executives is paid over $1.1 million a year. Under the new Aetna plan, their out-of-pocket costs for family coverage is $11,731 per year, which includes medical and dental premiums, deductibles, and an extra premium charge for compensation above $200,000. Even with the extra charge, the costs they pay are just 1.1% of their annual income.

 

Example Two: A St. Vincent's nurse who earns $85,000  would pay $9,784 per year in annual premiums and deductibles for family coverage. This would amount to 11.5% of the nurse's wages -- ten times the amount of a Providence Executive.

 

The "same medical benefits package" isn't really the same after all.

 

What They Didn't Say Also Speaks Volumes 

 

Providence loves to report out on numbers when they can manipulate them, but here's what they didn't say in their latest statement. 

 

Replacement Nurses Cost More: Providence will spend more on replacement nurses THIS WEEK than it would cost to close the gap between what was in their last proposal and full retro wages to its own staff. Specifically, Providence is spending an estimated $25 million per week for its replacement nurses wages. Their last contract offer was $15.7 million short on retro wages owed. 

 
Providence Has Billions in Reserves: With $7.8 billion in cash reserves, it would take less than 0.2% to give their frontline nurses full retro pay. That's right--less than 0.2%! And they would still have over $7 billion left in their "rainy day fund."

 

Follow The Money to Providence's Real Priorities: In 2023, Providence paid over $70 million in executive bonuses -- that's just bonuses! If they cut just 35-40% of that, they could invest in their frontline caregivers and meet the retro wage gap. Maybe better yet why not scrap executive bonuses altogether? If Providence is facing such "strong financial headwinds," these bonuses for executives (who already make millions of dollars in salaries) might be a convenient place to trim...If Providence's leadership cared about patients, staff, and the communities they serve, they would act like it.

 

The Bottom Line 

 

Providence has the resources to end this strike today. What nurses are proposing isn't "financially unviable" for Providence; it's a choice. A choice to prioritize temporary fixes and bloated executive bonuses over long-term solutions that nurses and patients desperately need.

 

Nurses deserve better. Patients deserve better. And Providence can afford to do better. 

 

It's time to stop the BS. 

 

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) Represents A Diverse Community Of More Than 23,000 Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Throughout Oregon. Together, We Use Our Collective Power To Advocate For Critical Issues Impacting Patients, Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Including A More Effective, Affordable And Accessible Healthcare System; Better Working Conditions For All Health Care Professionals; And Healthier Communities. For More Information Visit Www.OregonRN.org.

Scott Palmer, Palmer@OregonRN.org, 503-516-4840
Peter Starzynski, Starzynski@OregonRN.org, 503-960-7989

Get school, daycare immunizations updated before Feb. 19
Oregon Health Authority - 02/12/25 9:48 AM

February 12, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8843, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Get school, daycare immunizations updated before Feb. 19

Parents and caregivers must provide kids' vaccine records to schools and child care facilities with kids' vaccine records

PORTLAND, Ore. -- With the Feb. 19 deadline fast approaching for updating children's vaccinations, the Oregon Immunization Program at Oregon Health Authority reminds parents and caregivers that their children may miss out on school or child care if their records on file show missing immunizations.

By the third Wednesday in February, under state law, all children in public and private schools, preschools, Head Start and certified child care facilities must submit documentation showing they are up to date on required immunizations or have an exemption. This year, if a child's vaccination records do not show up-to-date immunizations by Feb. 19, the child's school or child care center will send them home.

"Vaccine-preventable diseases can be highly contagious, with 1,246 cases of pertussis or whooping cough in Oregon last year--the highest number of cases since 1950" said Stacy de Assis Matthews, school law coordinator in OHA's Public Health Division. "Immunizations remain our best defense against these diseases, keeping kids and school communities healthy and safe."

Leading up to the school immunization deadline in 2024, local health departments in Oregon sent 24,306 letters to parents and caregivers informing them that they needed to submit records showing up-to-date immunizations for their children. That led to a total of 4,446 children being sent home and not being able to attend school until their families provided the necessary vaccination records.

YouTube Link

To hear firsthand from Enyo Dzata, DNP, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Lane County, click this link.

"Our medical staff and nurses especially are great at monitoring vaccines within our pediatric population. We monitor how to get kids up to date. Exclusion Day is specific to our community to make sure that those who need the vaccines are getting them," added Dzata.

This year, local public health authorities mailed letters to families on or before Feb. 5.

Parents and caregivers seeking immunizations for their children should contact their health care provider or local health department. They may also reach 211Info by dialing 211 over the phone or going to 211info.org. No one can be turned away from a local health department because of their inability to pay for required vaccines. Many pharmacists can also immunize children 7 and older -- the Oregon Immunization Program encourages families to contact their neighborhood pharmacy for more details. Additional information on school immunizations can be found at the Immunization Program website. OHA's website also features local school vaccination data and an OIP Tableau School Immunization Dashboard

People in Oregon shared their personal stories with OHA on why adults decide to vaccinate their children:

OHA invites people to join the conversation and share why they vaccinate by using #ORVaccinates on social media.

# # #

Media Contact: Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8843, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Construction and Property Management Companies and Company Owners Plead Guilty to Asbestos Violations (Photo)
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 02/12/25 9:32 AM

PORTLAND, Ore.--A construction company operating in Hood River, Oregon, and a property management company operating in The Dalles, Oregon, together with the owners, pleaded guilty Friday to violating asbestos work standards and negligent endangerment by discharging a hazardous pollutant in violation of the Clean Air Act.

 

The property management company Horseshoe Grove, LLC pleaded guilty to violating asbestos work practice standards, and its owner and operator, Ryan Richter, 44, of The Dalles, pleaded guilty to negligent endangerment by discharging a hazardous pollutant.

 

The construction and demolition company Chamness Dirt Works Inc. pleaded guilty to violating asbestos work practice standards, and its owner and president, Ronald Chamness, 58, of Hood River, pleaded guilty to negligent endangerment by discharging a hazardous pollutant.

 

According to court documents, in November 2022, Horseshoe Grove purchased a property operating as a mobile home rental site with approximately thirty tenant spaces. The property also contained two dilapidated structures located near the actively rented tenant spaces. At the time of sale, Richter received an asbestos survey completed in 2021 which reported over 5,000 square feet of asbestos within the dilapidated structures. Richter also received a demolition estimate from Chamness Dirt Works to sample, test and remove asbestos containing materials but excluded the costs for asbestos abatement.

 

In February 2023, Richter and Horseshoe Grove hired Chamness Dirt Works to demolish the two asbestos-laden structures. On February 20, 2023, Chamness received a quote from an asbestos abatement contractor for the proper removal and disposal of asbestos containing materials. Despite knowing the structures contained asbestos, Chamness and Richter, through and with their companies, knowingly violated the Clean Air Act by demolishing the structures without hiring a certified asbestos abatement contractor or implementing the precautionary measures mandated by federal regulations for handling such materials.

 

On November 19, 2024, Richter, Chamness, Horseshoe Grove, and Chamness Dirt Works were charged by criminal information with negligent endangerment and violating the Clean Air Act's asbestos work practice standards.

 

Richter and Chamness each face a maximum sentence of one year in prison, a $100,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. Horseshoe Grove and Chamness Dirt Works each face a maximum sentence of five years' probation and $500,000 fine. As part of the plea agreement, Richter and Chamness have agreed to conduct asbestos remediation on the property. They will be sentenced on April 3, 2025, before U.S. District Court Judge Marco A. Hernández.

 

This case was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency and is being prosecuted by Bryan Chinwuba, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

# # #

Public Affairs Officer
USAOR.PublicAffairs@usdoj.gov



Attached Media Files: Change of Plea_Richter_Chamness

Attention: Teens and young people – if you do your taxes you might get money back (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Human Services - 02/12/25 9:08 AM

Tax season is here and there may be good reasons to file a tax return even for people who aren't required to file, which is the case for many young people.

 

Young people who work often don't end up filing a tax return. They may not meet the income threshold requiring them to file a return. Or they be under the misconception that their parents file for them because they are a dependent. Also, they may find tax forms confusing and worry about making a mistake.

 

In most cases, young people should file a return to report their income and get any excess withholding refunded.

Through an ODHS pilot program last year at seven urban, rural and suburban high schools in Oregon, students met after school and prepared their own tax returns using IRS-approved software. A teacher-facilitator helped them access the software on the IRS website and answered their questions about forms and terms. Students in the pilot received refunds of their state and federal tax withholding between $95 and $1,246.

 

"The high school pilot really opened our eyes as to the need for this help. Many students didn't even know they could file. They thought their parents did it for them. And once they logged into the software, they worked through it easily. Some of the refund amounts -- over $1000 in several cases -- really surprised me," Meg Reinhold, J.D., ODHS Senior Data and Performance Analyst, Tax Infrastructure Program Coordinator, said. Learn more about the Infrastructure Program below.

No matter how old someone is, finding ways to file a tax return for free is easy. The Oregon Department of Revenue's website lists many ways to file for free or to get free help: https://www.oregon.gov/dor/programs/individuals/Pages/get-free-tax-help.aspx.

 

And it isn't too late to file returns from prior years to get withholding back from those years too. Many software programs now help individuals prepare and file their tax returns from previous years.

 

 

Where to get free help filing taxes

541-382-4366; Bend, Redmond               

 

The Oregon Department of Human Services Tax Infrastructure Grant Program was created by HB 4117 (2022). The program is funded with $8 million General Fund per biennium. Grants fund culturally relevant and culturally specific organizations, Tribal governments, and rural community organizations to support tax credit education and free tax return preparation for individuals with low incomes. Funding is also used to support and increase the number of certified tax preparers in the state.

 

 

 

 

 

                                                            # # #  

Contact: Christine Decker, ODHS Communications: Christine.l.decker@odhs.oregon.gov; 503-602-8027



Attached Media Files: FINAL Spanish Tax season _1 news release -- 2 youth focus_SP.pdf , FINAL Tax season No. 1 news release -- draft 2 youth focus.pdf

Oregon Division of Financial Regulation consumer advocates recovered almost $9 million for Oregonians in 2024; nearly $2 million in fourth quarter (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 02/12/25 8:58 AM
DFR-logo-blue.jpg
DFR-logo-blue.jpg
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/1073/178953/DFR-logo-blue.jpg

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR), through its consumer advocates, recovered $8,964,423 for Oregonians in 2024, with $1,956,485 of that coming in the fourth quarter of the year.

 

"The state works hard to make sure everyone is treated fairly," Gov. Tina Kotek said. "The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation's consumer advocates are doing exactly that -- helping Oregonians navigate complex insurance issues and recovering their hard-earned dollars. At a time when Oregonians face increased costs of living, this work is essential to leveling the playing field against big corporations."

 

DFR's consumer advocates field calls every day from concerned and confused Oregonians over insurance and financial issues from institutions and licensed professionals that are regulated by the division. These advocates have extensive industry knowledge, allowing them to analyze often complex issues.

 

Insurance continues to produce the majority of complaints filed with 794 complaints in the fourth quarter and 3,357 total in 2024.

 

"A lot of money went directly back to Oregonians and I could not be more proud of the work of our consumer advocates," said Andrew R. Stolfi, Oregon insurance commissioner and director of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services. "We are here and working for consumers across the state and are committed to do everything we can to assist people with questions or problems in the insurance and financial fields."

 

Below are a few examples of the work of DFR advocates during the fourth quarter:

  • A consumer's home suffered damage from a backup of the sewer into their kitchen. The damages were immediately cleaned up and removal of contaminated materials took place the next day. There was no question of this being a covered claim, but the company delayed issuing any payments based on discrepancies in the estimates. After filing a complaint, certain payments were finally issued, but there were still disputes over the total amounts owed. During our review, the advocate discussed the claim in depth with the insurer, offering suggestions on how to reconcile these differences. The claim has now progressed at a greater pace and payments totaling $122,633.50 have been issued. 
  • A consumer settled an auto total-loss claim and was provided the settlement documentation and payment for $10,720.71. The insurer began its process to recoup expenses from the other insurer and identified that the amount paid to consumer was supposed to be for $7,149.14. However, the claims adjuster had mistakenly used total loss settlement figures from a different, unrelated claim. The insurer attempted to recover the overpayment from the consumer, who indicated they were unable to pay the amount back. After receiving the complaint, the insurer agreed to withdraw its reimbursement request for $3,571.57.
  • A consumer moved certificates of deposit (CDs) from their bank to a broker-dealer that was offering a better rate. Due to a delay, the transaction was never completed and the rate at the bank was now better than the broker-dealer's rate, so the consumer decided to move the funds back to the bank. However, the broker-dealer did not close out the single CD; they closed out the entire account due to an error on the withdrawal form that resulted in penalties for surrendering bonds that had not yet fully matured. Both the bank and the broker-dealer made a mistake in the transaction, but after asking the broker-dealer why they did not seek clarification before processing the transaction, they agreed to reimburse the consumer the entire amount of the loss of $1,617.03.

"We have some of the best professionals advocating for Oregon consumers -- whether they have been taken advantage of or simply need help with a question," said DFR Administrator TK Keen. "Our staff makes sure Oregonians get the assistance they need, resulting in meaningful recoveries across the state."

 

Anyone who may need a consumer advocate can call 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for insurance questions and .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for financial services questions.

 

Here is the list of the consumer advocacy complaints all four quarters of 2024:

 

2024 consumer advocacy complaints (opened quarterly)

 

Quarter 1 (January to March)

Quarter 2 (April to June)

Quarter 3 (July to September)

Quarter 4 (October to December)

Total

Banking

11

20

5

12

48

Collection agency

4

6

5

4

33

Consumer finance

14

10

15

19

58

Credit union

35

25

41

38

139

Debt buyer

0

0

2

0

2

Debt management service provider

3

2

3

4

12

Insurance

920

792

851

794

3,357

Licensing

0

0

0

0

0

Manufactured structure dealer

1

1

1

2

5

Money transmitter

37

32

28

25

122

Mortgage banker/broker

8

10

11

4

33

Mortgage servicer

89

60

41

44

234

Other

13

5

0

5

23

Pawn broker

1

1

2

0

4

Payday Loans

2

0

0

0

2

Pre need provider

0

1

0

0

1

Securities

19

12

15

12

58

Student loan

28

17

16

14

75

Title loan

0

0

0

0

0

Virtual currency

0

1

0

0

1

Not regulated by DFR: All Other

44

67

66

45

222

Not regulated by DFR: Banking

21

18

7

8

54

Not regulated by DFR: Credit unions

8

5

4

2

19

Not regulated by DFR: Insurance

251

230

261

215

957

Total:

1,509

1,315

1,374

1,247

5,445

Recoveries:

$3,129,309

$2,289,826

$1,588,803

$1,956,485

$,8,964,423

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

###

 

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.

 

 

Jason Horton
PIO Division Of Financial Regulation
Department Of Consumer And Business Services
503-798-6376 | Jason.a.horton@dcbs.oregon.gov



Attached Media Files: DFR-logo-blue.jpg

Bend Police announce Community Academy beginning April 1, 2025 (Photo)
Bend Police Dept. - 02/12/25 8:27 AM
Community Academy
Community Academy
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/5593/178952/IMG_0525.jpg

Bend Police announce Community Academy beginning April 1, 2025 

 

The Bend Police Department is pleased to announce it will host its 41st Community Academy beginning in April.  

 

Community Academy will take place from April 1 through June 10, with 11 classroom dates and one range and scenario day on Saturday, May 3.  

 

Our Community Academy offers an inside look at how the Department operates, with a goal of informing and educating participants about how local police officers carry out their work.  

 

Classes focus on all aspects of law enforcement, including patrol and investigations, records and evidence. It also features classes on specialty assignments like narcotics, traffic, the Central Oregon Emergency Response Team (CERT), and K9s. The program also offers a behind-the-scenes look at issues like mental health and officer survival. The classes are taught by officers and staff chosen according to their specific area of expertise in law enforcement. 

 

The class will meet once a week for 11 consecutive weeks, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday evenings. The Community Academy can accommodate 40 students per session. There is no charge to participate in the Community Academy. Preference is given to those who live in Bend city limits.  

 

Learn more by visiting the Bend Police website 

 

To participate, please complete and submit the Community Academy Application online. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on March 29.  

 

 

Sheila Miller
Bend Police Communications Manager
541-410-7793
Shmiller@bendoregon.gov



Attached Media Files: Community Academy

DPSST Applicant Review Committee Meeting Cancelled 02-26-2025
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 02/12/25 7:37 AM

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 February 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., has been canceled due to a lack of agenda items.

The next Applicant Review Committee meeting is scheduled for March 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

Juan Lopez, Executive Assistant
Department Of Public Safety Standards And Training
Phone: 503-551-3167
E-Mail: Juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov

New Statewide 9-1-1 Software Testing Lab Announced (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Emerg. Management - 02/12/25 5:00 AM
Statewide 9-1-1 Manager Frank Kuchta stands next to 9-1-1 Dispatcher Loren Hall who was working at a 9-1-1 emergency call taking position at the State 9-1-1 Testing Lab. The stations are fully functioning dispatcher stations that, when not being used to take actual 9-1-1 calls, serve as a space to test new software functionality.
Statewide 9-1-1 Manager Frank Kuchta stands next to 9-1-1 Dispatcher Loren Hall who was working at a 9-1-1 emergency call taking position at the State 9-1-1 Testing Lab. The stations are fully functioning dispatcher stations that, when not being used to take actual 9-1-1 calls, serve as a space to test new software functionality.
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/3986/178836/Statewide_9-1-1_Manager_Frank_Kuchta_stands_next_to_9-1-1_Dispatcher_Loren_Hall_who_was_working_at_a_9-1-1_emergency_call_taking_position_at_the_State_9-1-1_Testing_Lab..jpg

STAYTON, OR - Oregon's State 9-1-1 Program announced today the establishment of their new State 9-1-1 testing lab capabilities located in Stayton, Oregon. This lab will allow for the testing of new 9-1-1 system capabilities in a simulated environment before deploying them in a live setting. 

 

This project was developed in partnership with both METCOM 911 (Marion Area Multi-Agency Emergency Telecommunications) and Willamette Valley Communications Center (WVCC) Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) that serve Marion County.   

 

Previously, operators tested new 9-1-1 technology solutions by deploying them live in Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). This approach introduced significant risk to Oregon PSAPs--potentially affecting service availability and compromising the evaluation process--and is generally not considered an industry best practice. 

 

"METCOM's partnership with ODEM and WVCC has paved a path toward the future of 9-1-1 in Oregon," MECOM Executive Director John Thompson, said. "Additionally, as new technologies in 9-1-1 continue to emerge, the space and newly installed equipment can be utilized in an environment and tested thoroughly without interrupting operations in other primary ECC's." 

 

The Stayton facility, where the test lab is located, serves Marion County as a backup center to ensure 9-1-1 call services will still be provided if the primary Willamette Valley Communications Center (WVCC) or METCOM PSAP goes down. Partnership with the State 9-1-1 Program enabled the use of the facility to be expanded to support enterprise technology pre-deployment 9-1-1 lab testing capabilities.  

 

"METCOM's back-up ECC has evolved from a mostly vacant building with a few radios and limited access to fully capable dispatch center," Thompson, said. "This center is not only a benefit to METCOM and WVCC but can provide the ability for ECC's from across the state to relocate and access the technology to continue providing call-taking services to their citizens, in the event of a disaster, center evacuation or other needs. 

 

The 9-1-1 test lab fully replicates the infrastructure necessary to support emergency calls from the public. The testing environment uses the same network and equipment currently used by primary PSAPs throughout the majority of the state Oregon. It also provides security access controls, facility monitoring, power management, staff facilities, and the delivery of automatic location information (ALI). 

 

"We are very excited for this new partnership with METCOM 9-1-1 and WVCC and the launch of the new testing lab capabilities within Oregon," Statewide 9-1-1 Manager Frank Kuchta, said. "Having access to a dedicated environment to confidently test and validate emerging public safety technologies while ensuring risk is reduced as we undertake significant modernization of the statewide 9-1-1 emergency communications system is invaluable." 

 

###

 

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem.
You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licinfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov or dial 711. 

Media Line: 503-934-3310 Or OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov



Attached Media Files: Statewide 9-1-1 Manager Frank Kuchta stands next to 9-1-1 Dispatcher Loren Hall who was working at a 9-1-1 emergency call taking position at the State 9-1-1 Testing Lab. The stations are fully functioning dispatcher stations that, when not being used to take actual 9-1-1 calls, serve as a space to test new software functionality.

Tue. 02/11/25
Bend man arrested in Monday stabbing
Bend Police Dept. - 02/11/25 8:03 PM

Date: Feb. 11, 2025 

 

Case #: 2025-00007899 

 

Incident: Bend man arrested in Monday stabbing 

 

Date / Time of Incident: Feb. 10, 2025 / 3:14 p.m.  

 

Location: 200 block of NE Franklin Avenue, Bend  

 

Arrested: Kienan Dean Maximchuk, 28-year-old Bend resident 

Offenses: Assault II, Unlawful Use of a Weapon 

 

Victim: 31-year-old Bend resident 

 

At approximately 3:14 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 10, Bend Police officers responded to the Campfire Hotel in the 700 block of NE Third Street after a man entered the lobby and reported he'd been stabbed. The victim reported the incident had taken place in the 200 block of NE Franklin Avenue and that he'd been stabbed once by an unknown person. The victim was transported to St. Charles Bend with minor injuries.  

 

Over the course of the investigation, officers identified the suspect as 28-year-old Kienan Dean Maximchuk.  

 

At approximately 4:49 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 11, detectives, patrol officers and members of the Central Oregon Emergency Response Team executed a search warrant at a campsite in the area of Butler Market Road and the Bend Parkway. Officers first detained Sarah Jean Powell, a 30-year-old Bend resident who had a warrant for a parole violation. At approximately 4:56 p.m., officers detained Maximchuk.  

 

K9 Maggie deployed and bit Maximchuk during his arrest. He suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene.  

 

Maximchuk was transported first to the Bend Police Department and then to the Deschutes County Jail on suspicion of second-degree assault and unlawful use of a weapon. Powell was transported to the Deschutes County Jail on the warrant.  

Sheila Miller
Bend Police Communications Manager
541-410-7793
Shmiller@bendoregon.gov

Smoke Management Advisory Committee meets on Feb. 13 -- Meeting updated to virtual only
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 02/11/25 5:00 PM

SALEM, Ore. -- The Smoke Management Advisory Committee will meet virtually on Thursday, Feb. 13, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

 

The committee's agenda includes:

  • Welcome and roll call

  • Committee business

  • Committee & agency reports

  • Smoke Management Unit FY24 budget overview & discussion

  • Fall burning overview

  • Rule review committee discussion

  • Action item review/next meeting

The meeting is open to the public to attend virtually. There will be a period for public comment in the morning. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting y.berry@odf.oregon.gov">Shelby Berry at 503-949-5181.

 

View more information on the SMAC webpage.

 

Created by the Legislature in 1989, the five-member committee assists and advises the Oregon Department of Forestry in carrying out its Smoke Management Program. Members are appointed by the State Forester to serve a two-year term, which is renewable.

Shelby Berry, Committee Assistant, Shelby.berry@odf.oregon.gov, 503-949-5181

Matt West named Workers’ Compensation Division administrator (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 02/11/25 1:29 PM
Matt West
Matt West
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/1073/178938/Matt_West.jpg

Salem -- The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services has appointed Matt West as administrator of the Workers' Compensation Division, effective immediately.

 

West has been interim administrator since January 2024 and served as the division's deputy administrator for two years before that. West has more than 19 years of experience in the workers' compensation industry with 18 of those years at the Workers' Compensation Division.

 

The Workers' Compensation Division (WCD) administers and regulates workers' compensation laws and rules in Oregon.

 

"From the time he started at WCD helping injured workers return to work, Matt has supported workers and employers in Oregon," said Andrew Stolfi, director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. WCD is a division of DCBS. "Matt's leadership going forward will continue to support all participants in the workers' compensation system."

 

West began with the Workers' Compensation Division in 2003 as a benefit consultant. He later served in supervisory roles as employment services manager (March 2018 to December 2020), interim operations manager (January 2020 to October 2020), and resolution manager (December 2020 to January 2022) before coming deputy administrator in January 2022. 

 

"I am honored to be selected to serve as the administrator of the Workers' Compensation Division," West said. "This is an incredible opportunity to continue to serve and support both workers and employers in Oregon. I look forward to working closely with our dedicated team at WCD and external stakeholders to build on the progress we've made over the past year and drive positive change to keep Oregon among the top workers' compensation systems in the nation."

 

West also serves on several boards related to workers' compensation and workplace safety. He is on the board of directors of the International Association of Industrial Accident Boards and Commissions; serves as the vice president of the Western Association of Workers' Compensation Boards; and is on the Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences Advisory Board.

 

West as a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science and Sociology from Portland State University.

 

###

 

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.

Mark Peterson, Communications Director
971-283-5405
Mark.Peterson@dcbs.oregon.gov



Attached Media Files: Matt West , Workers' Compensation Division logo

Oregon Housing and Community Services helps create and preserve more than 500 affordable homes in Marion and Multnomah counties (Photo)
Oregon Housing and Community Services - 02/11/25 10:18 AM
Barbur Apartments will bring 150 affordable units to the Hillsdale neighborhood in Portland.
Barbur Apartments will bring 150 affordable units to the Hillsdale neighborhood in Portland.
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/1810/178932/barbur_apartments.PNG

Feb. 11, 2025

 

SALEM, Ore. -- Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) helps to significantly increase the supply of affordable homes by funding the creation and preservation of more than 500 homes in three affordable housing developments. The Barbur Apartments and Peaceful Villa in Portland and Orchard Park Apartments in Salem are set to receive more than $141.3 million in bond funding after the Housing Stability Council approved the financing last week.

 

The approval of this bond financing leverages more than $48.7 million of state resources, and $30 million of Oregon Affordable Housing Tax Credits. All three projects combined will bring in more than $10.6 million in annual federal tax credit equity investment.  

 

"No matter where they live, all people of Oregon deserve to have a housing system that works for them. We must dedicate ourselves to making concrete housing progress that actually makes life better," said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell.  

 

Innovative Housing, Inc., is developing Barbur Apartments in Portland's Hillsdale neighborhood. It will become a family-focused community with 149 affordable homes for people with incomes below 60% Area Median Income (AMI). Residents will have access to essential wraparound services tailored to meet the needs of immigrant and refugee families.  

 

OHCS is also investing in innovative ways to transform existing affordable housing in response to Portland's housing crisis. Home Forward's Peaceful Villa is set to preserve its existing 70 homes and add 96 more homes, converting it into a new family community. The current residents will temporarily be relocated using the US Department of Housing and Urban Development's Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program. Once they move back, they'll have options to rent one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes with services that include a food pantry, indoor and outdoor play areas, club house spaces, and a computer lab.  

 

In Salem, Aberdeen Capital received $23 million to prevent the conversion of Orchard Park Apartment's 224 homes to market rate rents after its affordability expired in 2021. This funding, which includes $3 million for immediate repairs, will ensure that rent remains affordable for people with incomes below 60% AMI. This investment is crucial to ensure housing stability for the current residents amid rising rents in the area. 

 

Find more information about each affordable housing development in the Housing Stability Council meeting packet here 

 

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.

 

El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregon ayuda a crear y conservar más de 500 viviendas a precio asequible n en los condados Marion y Multnomah 

 

SALEM, Ore. -- El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregon (OHCS, por sus siglas en inglés) ayuda a incrementar significativamente el numero de viviendas a precio asequible al otorgar fondos para la creación y conservación de 500 viviendas a precio asequible en tres desarrollos de viviendas. Barbur Apartments y Peaceful Villas en Portland y Orchard Park Apartments en Salem recibirán mas de $141.3 millones en financiación mediante bonos después de que el Concilio para la Estabilidad de la Vivienda lo aprobará la semana pasada.

 

La aprobación de esta financiación mediante bonos utiliza más de $48.7 millones de recursos estatales y $30 millones de créditos fiscales para viviendas a precio asequible en Oregon. Los tres proyectos combinados aportarán más de $10.6 millones anuales en inversiones de capital en créditos fiscales federales.

 

"No importa donde vivan, todas las personas en Oregon merecen tener un sistema de vivienda que trabaje para ellos. Debemos dedicarnos a realizar avances de vivienda concretos que realmente permitan vivir una vida mejor," dijo la directora ejecutiva de OHCS, Andrea Bell.

 

Innovative Housing, Inc. está desarrollando Barbur Apartments en el vecindario de Hillsdale en Portland. Se convertirá en una comunidad centrada en la familia con 149 viviendas asequibles para personas con ingresos inferiores al 60% de la renta media del área (AMI, por sus siglas en inglés). Los residentes tendrán acceso a servicios esenciales adaptados a las necesidades de las familias de inmigrantes y refugiados.

 

OHCS también está invirtiendo en formas innovadoras de transformar las viviendas asequibles existentes en respuesta a la crisis de vivienda en Portland. Peaceful Villa, de Home Forward, conservará sus 70 viviendas actuales y añadirá 96 más, convirtiéndola en una nueva comunidad familiar. Los residentes actuales serán realojados temporalmente mediante el programa de Demostración de Ayuda al Alquiler del Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de EE.UU. Una vez que vuelvan, tendrán opciones para alquilar viviendas de uno, dos, tres y cuatro dormitorios con servicios que incluyen una despensa de alimentos, zonas de juego interiores y exteriores, espacios de casa club y una sala de computadoras.

 

En Salem, Aberdeen Capital recibió $23 millones para evitar la conversión de las 224 viviendas de Orchard Park Apartments a alquileres a precio de mercado tras expirar su asequibilidad en 2021. Esta financiación, que incluye $3 millones para reparaciones inmediatas, garantizará que los alquileres sigan siendo a precio asequible para personas con ingresos inferiores al 60% del AMI. Esta inversión es crucial para garantizar la estabilidad de la vivienda para los residentes actuales en medio del aumento de los alquileres en la zona.

 

Encontrará más información sobre cada desarrollo de viviendas a precio asequible en el paquete de la reunión del Consejo de Estabilidad de la Vivienda.

 

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.

 

 

Photo Caption: Barbur Apartments ofrecerán 150 viviendas a precio asequible al vecindario Hillsdale en Portland.

Delia Hernández
HCS.mediarequests@hcs.oregon.gov

Contactos Para Medios De Comunicación:
Delia Hernández, OHCS, HCS.mediarequests@hcs.oregon.gov



Attached Media Files: Barbur Apartments will bring 150 affordable units to the Hillsdale neighborhood in Portland.

Deadline Approaching on Four Oregon Lottery Prizes (Photo)
Oregon Lottery - 02/11/25 10:16 AM
With four unclaimed Powerball prizes about to expire, it's time to check your tickets.
With four unclaimed Powerball prizes about to expire, it's time to check your tickets.
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/4939/178931/Powerball_ticket_scan.jpg

Salem, Ore. -- Time is running out to claim four Oregon Lottery prizes that are about to expire in the coming weeks. No one has come forward to claim the following:

 

Powerball
$100,000
Ticket purchased in Brooks (97305)
Expires February 21, 2025

 

Powerball
$50,000
Ticket purchased in Portland (97217)
Expires March 11, 2025

 

Powerball
$50,000
Ticket purchased in Portland (97219)
Expires April 3, 2025

 

Powerball
$50,000
Ticket purchased in Portland (97214)
Expires April 13, 2025

 

"We've had players find tickets worth millions of dollars in car glove boxes, in the pocket of an old pair of jeans, and at the bottom of a purse," said Oregon Lottery's Manager of Player Services Heidi Quiring. "It's time to see if you have a winner tucked away somewhere. After a year, the prizes can no longer be claimed."

 

Unclaimed prizes go back to the state and are distributed to Oregon Lottery beneficiaries. For the 2024 fiscal year, which runs from July 2023 to June 2024, $8 million in unclaimed prizes were transferred back to Oregon.

 

Prizes $50,000 and above can be claimed by appointment at the Salem and Wilsonville Prize Payment Centers. To make an appointment, call 1-800-766-6789 or go to our website. Players can also download the Oregon Lottery app to check their ticket.

 

The Oregon Lottery recommends that you sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim any prize. 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.

 

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery, visit www.oregonlottery.org.

Melanie Mesaros
Oregon Lottery
971-719-0464
Melanie.Mesaros@lottery.oregon.gov



Attached Media Files: With four unclaimed Powerball prizes about to expire, it's time to check your tickets.

Oregon Ranked #2 in the nation for Firewise sites
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 02/11/25 10:00 AM

Salem, Ore.--With 298 Firewise USA sites in good standing, Oregon is again ranked number two in the nation for number of Firewise USA sites. In 2024, Oregon added 32 new sites to create more fire-adapted communities.

 

Oregon is also honored to share the first Firewise USA site in the country that is located in two states, along the Oregon and California border in Lake County.

 

Along with being number two as a state in 2024, Oregon is also home to the number four and number five counties with the most sites in the nation: Jackson County with 74 sites and Deschutes County with 78 sites. These accomplishments would not have been possible without the dedication of community members and those that led the charge. 

 

What is Firewise USA? Firewise USA is a program that helps guide communities in the process of protecting their homes and neighborhood from wildfire. The program is run by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and co-sponsored by the National Association of State Foresters and U.S. Forest Service. The Oregon Department of Forestry is responsible for administering the program in Oregon and is a resource to help communities create a community wildfire protection plan, find grants to fund projects, and give expert advice.

This work is not done alone. Through the help of ODF's partners, community coordinators, and local fire departments, we all work together to complete assessments and help the community develop action plans for implementing wildfire risk reduction activities.

 

How does a community become a Firewise community? Starting the journey to become a Firewise USA site is as easy as picking up the phone and calling your local ODF office. Only a minimum of eight dwellings are required, meaning that your street, neighborhood or town can be a Firewise USA community.

 

What are the benefits of becoming a Firewise site? By becoming a Firewise site, you can educate your community and work to become more wildfire resilient. As a Firewise site, you have access to several wildfire partners, like the Oregon Department of Forestry, to help you in securing grants, getting advice, help in coordination and more. Most importantly, you create strong relationships with your neighbors under the common goal of protecting your community from wildfire.

 

The continuation and growth of the Firewise USA program in Oregon is just one way we can create more fire adapted communities and protect our neighbors.

Jessica Neujahr, Public Affairs Officer, Jessica.neujahr@odf.oregon.gov, 503-983-3367

Computer kiosks now available in Revenue regional offices to help taxpayers with free electronic filing
Oregon Dept. of Revenue - 02/11/25 8:38 AM

Salem, OR--Oregon taxpayers preparing their own taxes can now file their returns using computer kiosks set up in public spaces in Department of Revenue regional offices in Bend, Eugene, Gresham, and Portland during business hours.

 

The kiosks can be used to file taxes through the free fillable forms and Direct File Oregon e-file options.

 

Offices are located in:

Bend

951 SW Simpson Ave
Suite 100
Bend, OR 97702-3118

Monday -- Friday 8 a.m. -- 5 p.m. (closed 12:30 p.m. -- 1:30 p.m.)

 

Eugene

1600 Valley River Drive
Suite 310
Eugene, OR 97401-2160

Monday -- Friday 8 a.m. -- 5 p.m. (closed 12:30 p.m. -- 1:30 p.m.)

 

Gresham

1550 NW Eastman Parkway
Suite 220
Gresham, OR 97030-3832

Monday -- Friday 8 a.m. -- 5 p.m. (closed (12:30 p.m. -- 1:30 p.m.)

 

Portland

800 NE Oregon St
Suite 505
Portland, OR 97232-2156
Monday -- Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed 12 -- 12:30 p.m.)

 

E-filing is the fastest way for a taxpayer to get their refund. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund two weeks sooner than those who file paper returns and request paper refund checks.

 

"The computer kiosk offers a way to file electronically for those without a computer or those who fill out paper forms and want to transfer their data into one of the two available options to receive their refund sooner," said Megan Denison, administrator of the department's Personal Tax and Compliance Division.
 

Media Contact:
Robin Maxey
Public Information Officer
Robin.maxey@oregon.gov
971-718-4483

Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission meets online Feb. 25
Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept. - 02/11/25 8:06 AM

SALEM, Oregon -- The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission will convene online Feb. 25 for an executive session and business meeting.

 

On Tuesday, Feb. 25, commissioners will convene an executive session at 8:30 a.m. online to discuss real estate and legal issues. Executive sessions are closed to the public. A business meeting will begin at 9:15 a.m. and will be open to the public.

 

Anyone may watch the business meeting; instructions will be posted on the commission web page prior to the meeting. The business meeting includes time for informal public comment related to any items not on the agenda.

 

Registration is required to speak at the meeting and is available online at https://bit.ly/registerFeb2025commission. The deadline to register to speak at the meeting virtually is 5 p.m., Feb. 24. Time per speaker is limited to three minutes. Please submit written public comments by 5 p.m. Feb. 24 to katie.gauthier@oprd.oregon.gov.

The full agenda and supporting documents are posted on the commission web page. Notable requests:

 

Anyone needing special accommodations to attend the meeting should contact Denise Warburton, commission assistant, at least three days in advance: burton@oprd.oregon.gov">denise.warburton@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-779-9729.

 

The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission promotes outdoor recreation and heritage by establishing policies, adopting rules and setting the budget for the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. The seven members are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. They serve four-year terms and meet several times a year at locations across the state.

Katie Gauthier
503-510-9678
Katie.gauthier@oprd.oregon.gov

Mon. 02/10/25
Fatal Crash -- Interstate 5 -- Washington County
Oregon State Police - 02/10/25 1:02 PM

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ore. 10 Feb. 2025 -- On Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 6:44 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5 (I-5) near milepost 288 in Washington County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Toyota Tundra pickup, operated by Aleksandr Vasilevich Yevtushok (57) of Boring, was traveling southbound on I-5 when it rear-ended a white Peterbilt semi-truck and trailer, operated by Marcelino Diaz Orozco (55) of Salem.

The operator of the Toyota pickup (Yevtushok) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries and later died at the hospital.

The operator of the Peterbilt semi-truck (Orozco) was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Tualatin Police Department and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 

The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon's highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists, and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Oregon State Police
Public Information Officer
Osppio@osp.oregon.gov

Frontline Caregivers to Pack the Room for Hearing on Legislation Requiring Hospitals to Disclose Strike Replacement Costs
Oregon Nurses Assn. - 02/10/25 12:08 PM

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - Providence caregivers will "pack the room" for a committee hearing on House Bill 2792, legislation that aims to create transparency and ensure that health systems in Oregon, which receive public funding, provide critical financial information to the public about what they are spending to replace striking workers.

 

The legislation, which was introduced by Representative Travis Nelson and Senator James Manning Jr., comes in the midst of the largest healthcare strike in Oregon history. Nearly 5,000 frontline caregivers from Providence hospitals and facilities across the state have walked off the job because of unsafe staffing, wages that are not competitive with other health systems, and cuts to workers' healthcare, among other things.

 

"The costs associated with replacing employees during a labor dispute can be significant, and it is essential that hospitals be transparent about these expenses," said Rep. Travis Nelson. "This legislation will provide the public, whose taxes help fund our hospitals, with a clearer picture of how healthcare dollars are being spent, and help stakeholders understand how much a hospital is paying to avoid settling fair contracts with their employees."

 

The proposed legislation would require hospitals to submit a detailed monthly report to the Oregon Health Authority and to the Bureau of Labor and Industries outlining all the projected costs associated with hiring temporary workers or other staffing replacements in the event of a strike or lockout. The information would be made available to the public, allowing patients, employees, elected officials, and all Oregonians to understand the financial implications of a strike. Currently, hospitals are not required to disclose any of the costs associated with replacing striking workers.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), which supports the legislation, estimates Providence is spending at a minimum, more than $25 million per week just on the wages of replacement nurses instead of using those additional resources to settle a contract and pay permanent caregivers, who live in Oregon, a competitive wage. Replacement nurses can make upwards of $8,000 per week just in wages, which is far more than permanent nurses who are out on strike.

 

"This legislation is an important step towards promoting fairness and transparency in healthcare," said Kathy Keane, an registered nurse from Providence St. Vincent who is currently on strike. "Providence, one of Oregon's largest health systems, has a troubling history of financial opacity. When workers go on strike to fight for better patient care and working conditions, hospitals often spend millions of dollars on replacement workers, but those expenditures remain undisclosed. This lack of transparency means that Oregonians--whose tax dollars help fund these hospitals--have no way of knowing how much of their money is being spent to undermine frontline healthcare workers rather than invest in patient care."

 

The House Committee on Labor and Workplace Standards will be hearing the legislation on Monday, February 10 at 3 p.m. in the Oregon State Capitol, Hearing Room D.

 

During the committee hearing, frontline caregivers from Providence, who are currently on strike, will present testimony regarding the potential impact of the legislation. The hearing will be open to the public, and members of the media are encouraged to attend. 

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) Represents A Diverse Community Of More Than 23,000 Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Throughout Oregon. Together, We Use Our Collective Power To Advocate For Critical Issues Impacting Patients, Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Including A More Effective, Affordable And Accessible Healthcare System; Better Working Conditions For All Health Care Professionals; And Healthier Communities. For More Information Visit Www.OregonRN.org.

Peter Starzynski, Starzynski@OregonRN.org, 503-960-7989

Snake River Correctional Institution reports in-custody death (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Corrections - 02/10/25 11:28 AM
Lawson_M.jpg
Lawson_M.jpg
http://www.flashalert.net/images/news/2025-02/1070/178906/Lawson_M.jpg

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Michael Lawson, died the evening of February 9, 2025. Lawson was incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution (SRCI) in Ontario and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

 

Lawson entered DOC custody on December 19, 2016, from Multnomah County with an earliest release date of November 21, 2029. Lawson was 67 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 individuals who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

 

SRCI is a multi-custody prison in Ontario that houses approximately 3,000 adults in custody. SRCI has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, intensive management, infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care, and an administrative segregation unit. SRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including a contact center, laundry, and sign shop. SRCI specializes in incentive housing, specialized housing, individuals with mental health/medical vulnerabilities, education and trades programs, cognitive and parenting programs, and institution work programs. SRCI opened in 1991 and is the largest correctional institution in the state.

 

 ####

Amber Campbell, 458-224-4390, Amber.R.Campbell@doc.oregon.gov
Betty Bernt, 971-719-3521, Betty.A.Bernt@doc.oregon.gov



Attached Media Files: Lawson_M.jpg

Oregon DFR encourages people to protect themselves against relationship investment scams (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 02/10/25 10:12 AM
DFR-logo-blue.jpg
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Salem -- The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is warning people to be wary of an unexpected text or direct message from a stranger -- it might be the first step in a relationship investment scam, also known as a romance scam or "pig butchering." These scams often involve fraudsters contacting targets seemingly at random, using social media or common communication apps.

 

The scammer gains the target's trust, often by starting a romantic relationship or a friendship. The scammer then starts to convince the victim to invest in phony investments, including fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes, before falsely claiming the initial investment grew significantly. The scammer then asks for more money and demands payment of fees or taxes if the victim requests to withdraw the funds. Even when the victim pays the withdrawal fees, the fraudster does not refund the victim's money, but rather disappears with the funds without any further communication.

 

According to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), there are several warning signs to be aware of involving these types of scams:

  • Unexpected contact: Never respond to unsolicited messages from unknown contacts, even about seemingly benign topics, especially through text message or on encrypted messaging applications like WhatsApp or Telegram.
  • Refusal to participate in video chats: If someone you have been messaging declines to interact face-to-face, they likely are not the person from the profile photo.
  • Request for financial information: Don't share any personal financial information with anyone you have never met in person. If a new virtual friend or romantic connection starts making financial inquiries, put the brakes on the relationship.
  • Invitation to invest in specific financial products: Be wary of any unsolicited investment advice or tips, particularly from someone you have spoken to only online, even if they suggest you trade through your own account. Always question what a source has to gain from sharing tips with you and whether the transaction fits with your financial goals and investment strategy.
  • Unknown or confusing investment opportunity: Carefully evaluate the product, as well as the person or company requesting your investment. Along with a basic search, try adding words such as "scam" or "fraud" to see what results come up. Consider running recommendations by a third party or an investment professional who has no stake in the investment and use FINRA BrokerCheck to see if the promoter is a registered investment professional.
  • Unfamiliar trading platforms: Do extensive research before moving any money, particularly in an emerging market such as cryptocurrency, which has hundreds of exchanges and new avenues for trading that continue to evolve. Who controls the platform? What security measures are in place? How can you withdraw funds if needed? If you don't know the answers to those questions, do not put your assets there.
  • Exaggerated claims and elevated emotions: Take a closer look at any investment that offers much higher than average returns or is touted as "guaranteed." Fraudsters will also often use their knowledge about you to appeal to your emotions -- for example, "Don't you want to have money to send your kids to college?"
  • Sense of urgency about an upcoming news announcement or share price increase: Remember that insider trading is illegal. You should never trade in shares of a company on the basis of material, nonpublic information.

"Romance and crypto scams continue to be the source of significant losses for consumers," said TK Keen, DFR administrator. "Consumers who receive contacts out of the blue through messaging apps on their phone or other means should be especially suspicious of those trying to entice them into cryptocurrency or any other investments."

 

Several states and federal authorities have issued warnings about this type of fraud. In 2023, investment fraud caused the highest losses of any scam reported by the public to the FBI's Internet Crimes Complaint Center (IC3), totaling $4.57 billion, a 38 percent increase from 2022. Frauds involving cryptocurrency, including relationship investment scams, increased from $2.57 million in 2022 to $3.96 billion in 2023, a 53 percent rise. DFR accepts consumer complaints relating to investment fraud and will forward other scam complaints to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. Consumers should also report scams to the FBI's IC3 at https://www.ic3.gov/. Learn more about relationship investment scams and how to outsmart scammers by visiting DFR's website.

 

Anyone who thinks they may have been a victim of a relationship investment scam can fill out our online complaint form or contact DFR's consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

 

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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.

 

 

Jason Horton
PIO Division Of Financial Regulation
Department Of Consumer And Business Services
503-798-6376 | Jason.a.horton@dcbs.oregon.gov



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State Interoperability Executive Council
Oregon Dept. of Emerg. Management - 02/10/25 8:54 AM

Salem, Ore.--The State Interoperability Executive Council (SIEC) will meet Tuesday, February 11, 2025 from 1:30 -- 3:30 p.m. The meeting will take place virtually via Microsoft Teams. A dial-in option is also available. The meeting is open to the public and comments will be taken from those who wish to participate.

 

The agenda and handouts are posted on the council's website. Dial-In information for those who wish to attend over the phone or virtually are outlined in the meeting agenda.

 

What:       State Interoperability Executive Council 

When:      Tuesday, February 11, 1:30 PM -- 3:30 PM

Where:     Virtually via Microsoft Teams

                 Click here to join the meeting

                 Dial In: 503-446-4951 Pin: 266 306 980#

Who:        Members of the State Interoperability Executive Council 

 

The SIEC was created under the State Chief Information Officer to be the statewide interoperability governing body and to serve as the primary steering group for the Oregon Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan (SCIP). The SIEC's mission is to develop and maintain the SCIP, develop recommendations and guidelines for policy, identify technology and standards, and coordinate intergovernmental resources to facilitate statewide public safety communications interoperability.

 

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION OF DISABILITIES -- Reasonable accommodations, such as assistive hearing devices, sign language interpreters and materials in large print or audiotape, will be provided as needed. In order to ensure availability, please contact William Chapman at the Oregon Department of Emergency Management at telephone 971-283-4607, or email SWIC.OR@das.oregon.gov at least 24 hours prior to the meeting with your request.

 

Media Line: 503-934-3310 Or OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov