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Bend/Central-Eastern Oregon News Releases for Thu. Mar. 28 - 1:02 pm
Thu. 03/28/24
Suspects Identified in Local Multiple Thefts
Redmond Police Dept. - 03/28/24 11:34 AM

UPDATE

Suspects Identified in Local Multiple Thefts  

REDMOND, OR – The Redmond Police Department has identified the two suspects who committed multiple theft related crimes. The identification is a result of a large number of positive responses from the community. The suspects do not reside in the Tri-County area, and we are currently working with their hometown jurisdictions to apprehend. The case remains active pending the suspect's arrest. 

The Police Department would like to express gratitude to those who assisted with the identifications.    

REDMOND, OR – The Redmond Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two suspects who are involved in multiple criminal cases in Redmond. The two suspects, one male and one female are believed to have committed theft related crimes at Wal Mart, Texaco, Wilco, and Rite Aid. The crimes occurred between March 17, 2024, and March 19, 2024.  The crimes have victimized local business as well as citizens shopping at these businesses.  

The suspects have been seen driving a red passenger car with a luggage rack on top. The Redmond Police Department would like to remind citizens to hide or secure valuables and double check the doors of the vehicle are locked when parked. 

Please contact the Redmond Police Department through Dispatch Non-Emergency at (541) 693-6911, if you have any information regarding these two individuals.   


BLM Boosts Internet Access and Reliability for Rural and Underserved Communities
Bureau of Land Management Ore. & Wash. - 03/28/24 10:30 AM

WASHINGTON – In support of access to reliable high-speed internet service for every American, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is updating regulations for developing and operating broadband infrastructure on public lands. The final rule on Broadband Authorization, Cost Recovery, and Vegetation Management for Fire Risk Management also reduces fire risk along power lines.

“Internet access is essential in an increasingly digital world, and ensuring that every American has reliable, high-speed access is a top priority for the Biden-Harris administration,” said Tracy Stone-Manning, BLM Director. “Internet opens the door to job opportunities, educational resources, health care information, government services, and social networks. By making it easier for service providers to put communications infrastructure on public lands, BLM is helping to ensure communities across America are connected.”

As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the Biden-Harris Administration is committing $83.1 billion to provide affordable, reliable high-speed internet to everyone in the United States.

As the nation’s largest land manager, BLM plays a major role in connecting communities to the internet in the Western United States. Updates in this final rule provide consistency in BLM’s review of applications to locate communications facilities on Federal land, allow project applications to be submitted electronically, and commit the agency to making a decision on applications within 270 days.

The rule also addresses the risks of wildfire to and from powerlines on BLM-managed public lands. Hazard trees and other vegetation near transmission and distribution lines can be ignition points for fires or become fuel for fires that start elsewhere. Clarifying requirements for vegetation management will enhance public safety while helping protect investments in infrastructure and resources on public lands.

In addition, the rule updates BLM’s cost recovery fee schedule for authorizing broadband projects, which will help ensure the BLM is fairly compensated for its work.

There are approximately 1,500 communications sites on BLM-managed lands, many of which include towers for cellular and wireless services. Additionally, BLM administers 5,000 miles of energy corridors for power transmission (connected to 1,000 miles of similar corridors on U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service lands), which are compatible with uses such as fiber optics and phone lines.

For more information on the BLM broadband rule, visit www.blm.gov/broadband-rule. For more information about BLM’s efforts to build and secure the nation’s infrastructure, visit our infrastructure site.

 

–BLM–

 

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of subsurface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations


FBI Portland Division Now Accepting Applications for the FBI's Teen Academy (Photo)
FBI - Oregon - 03/28/24 9:49 AM
Evidence Collecting
Evidence Collecting
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/3585/171102/thumb_7321993548270661693.jpg

PORTLAND, OREGON – Have you ever wanted to be part of a SWAT Team? Or fingerprint a suspect? Or learn how to catch a cyber-criminal? Then consider participating in the FBI Teen Academy.

The FBI Teen Academy program provides an excellent opportunity for rising high school juniors and seniors to learn about exciting careers in law enforcement within the FBI and beyond. Applicants chosen for the program actively engage with FBI agents and leaders in the Bureau to learn about case studies, crime prevention, evidence gathering, and investigative techniques related to criminal activity. The Teen Academy allows students to delve deeply into levels of law enforcement unavailable to them in a general classroom setting.

"Last year this office received a record number of applicants for the FBI’s Teen Academy, and we are excited to host them again this year,” said Aubree M. Schwartz, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. "This is a unique opportunity for these teens to see how the FBI fits into the greater Department of Justice. They will interact with FBI Special Agents and learn how the FBI conducts investigations, from interviewing to evidence gathering and analysis, using deductive reasoning and logic-based skills. This week-long program is an excellent introduction into the field of federal law enforcement and will hopefully inspire the next generation of FBI employees."

Students learn about how criminals are captured, hear from FBI agents about actual cases, and learn how to raise their self-awareness online and watch for cyber-predators. Graduates of the Teen Academy program develop a keen understanding of how the FBI interacts with local law enforcement agencies and how participants can raise crime prevention awareness in their communities. In addition, hands-on instruction by FBI experts and other law enforcement agents allows students to understand the importance of communication between national and local agencies. 

Teen Academy members engage in group activities ranging from small group exercises to hands-on simulations. As a result, students learn valuable life skills and increase their knowledge and understanding of how law enforcement agencies interact around the country.

Participation is free to the applicants chosen, and volunteer organizations provide supplies for the events. 

Applicants must be rising juniors or seniors in high school in the state of Oregon or Southwest Washington. Attendees will need to provide their own transportation to and from the FBI Portland Field Office. 

To Apply:

FBI Portland is currently accepting applications for its 2024 Teen Academy. The session will take place Monday, July 15 to Thursday, July 18, 2024.

Submit your application to each.pd@fbi.gov">outreach.pd@fbi.gov by Friday, April 26, 2024.

                                                                          ###

https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/portland-teen-academy-application-2024.pdf/view           

 

Interviews with a former Teen Academy graduate, who is now an FBI Portland employee, available upon request. 

 




Attached Media Files: 2023 Attendees Photo , Team Building , Evidence Collecting , Graduation Ceremony , Daily Fitness , Fingerprinting , Fingerprinting , Casting Shoe Prints , Bomb Tech Suit , SWAT Demonstration , Classroom

Oregon Dept. of Forestry adds capacity to its urban forestry program with new hires (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/28/24 9:31 AM
The Oregon Dept. of Forestry has expanded its urban forestry team to better serve cities and towns across the state.
The Oregon Dept. of Forestry has expanded its urban forestry team to better serve cities and towns across the state.
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1072/171101/thumb_IMG_0422.JPG

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is poised to provide increased service on tree-related matters to Oregon’s urban residents thanks to five new hires. Using funding from the Oregon State Legislature, and the USDA Forest Service through the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), ODF has been able to hire a grants administrator and four new community assistance foresters – up from just one for the whole state.

Scott Altenhoff, Manager of ODF’s Urban and Community Assistance Forestry program, said he’s looking forward to how much more the added staff will allow the agency to do. 

“With 241 cities and towns in Oregon spread over 90,000 square miles and only one urban  forester, we were limited in how much support we could provide to any one community,” said Altenhoff. “With more staff, I’m excited we can engage with more communities to help them plan and manage their urban trees in accordance with best practices and the latest scientific research.”

Until now, Brittany Oxford had been the agency’s lone Community Assistance Forester. She has been joined since March 18 by Evan Elderbrock, Lilah Gonen, Alison Herrell and Jennifer Killian. 

Killian left her position as urban forester for the City of Corvallis to join ODF.  She has deep background in municipal forestry in her home state of Wisconsin, where she worked on that state’s emerald ash borer team. Prior to her work for Corvallis, she was Volunteer Program Coordinator for the non-profit tree planting organization Friends of Trees. She holds a master's degree from Oregon State University focused on long-term strategic urban forestry management. She is a member of the Pacific Northwest chapter of International Society of Arboriculture and a past board member of Oregon Community Trees, serving as chair of its 2019 conference.

Herrell is a Board-Certified Master Arborist and a Qualified Tree Risk Assessor. She has worked in various environmental posts for the past 15 years. She spent several seasons early in her career as a field technician for non-profits doing restoration and conservation work, including an AmeriCorps position with The Nature Conservancy. After completing her master’s degree in Environmental Science from Indiana University, she worked for six years in Chicago with a commercial and residential tree care company. There, she worked as a groundsperson, plant healthcare technician, tree climber, and consulting arborist for. She then transitioned to a technical trainer role in Portland focusing on plant diagnostics, educating arborists about responsible integrated pest management practices, and planning for invasive pests. A part-time instructor at Portland Community College, she is in line to be the next president of the Pacific Northwest Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture. 

Elderbrock and Gonen are moving into permanent positions with ODF after serving as specialists outreaching to local communities on emerald ash borer preparation and management. 

Elderbrock grew up in Wisconsin but now lives in Eugene. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Geology from Macalester College in Minnesota, he worked briefly for the Minnesota Geological Survey. He then spent four years as a field ecology instructor in Maine and California. He later earned a master’s degree in Environment Studies from the University of Oregon (UO. That’s also where he completed his doctorate in Landscape Architecture in 2023. 

Lilah Gonen has bachelor’s degrees in Forestry and Geography from the University of California, Berkeley, and a master’s in Botany and Plant Pathology from Oregon State University. Before joining ODF, Gonnen did invasive insect surveying and eradication work with the Oregon Dept. of Agriculture, and urban forestry and wetland restoration work with the City of Gresham. Gonnen specializes in forest pathology and invasive species management, including sudden oak death, Swiss needle cast, Japanese beetle, emerald ash borer, and various weeds. 

“I’m eager to have such a well-qualified team to assist communities better manage their tree resources, including helping them inventory the trees they have and inputting the data into the TreePlotter Inventory System,” said Altenhoff.

Thanks to a federal grant, Altenhoff said ODF is able to offer the tree inventory software free to Oregon cities and towns. “The advantage is that everyone can compare their trees to every other community in Oregon using the software. This will help us get a better understanding of what trees are doing well where, and which are struggling. This improves our ability to make region-specific recommendations on what to plant. It also helps cities and towns see more precisely what their risk from tree pests and diseases is.” 

Altenhoff said he sees increased opportunities for partnering with communities on important initiatives, especially with $26.6 million in new federal funds coming to Oregon from the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 

“Later this spring we expect to call for applications from community-based organizations, something our new grants administrator Hilary Olivos-Rood will be handling.”

Olivos-Rood moves into her new position after five years serving as the agency's administrator for the Board of Forestry and rulemaking coordinator. She also sits on ODF’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council. Before her time with ODF, she worked in Risk Management at the Department of Administrative Services. She holds a bachelor's degree in communication studies with a minor in civic engagement.

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Attached Media Files: The Oregon Dept. of Forestry has expanded its urban forestry team to better serve cities and towns across the state.

Public Safety Memorial Fund Board Meeting
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 03/28/24 8:38 AM

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

 

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a regular meeting on April 25, 2024, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting that begins at 9:00 a.m. at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE Salem. For further information, please contact Shelby Wright at (503) 378-2191.

 

Agenda Items

1. Introductions

2. Approve January 25, 2024, Meeting Minutes

     Approve Minutes

3. Public Safety Memorial Fund Budget Update

    Presented by Kathy McAlpine

4. Brian Gaunt (DPSST #37820); Supplemental Application for Discretionary Benefits

    Presented by Kathy McAlpine

5. Proposed Rule Change for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-070-0010 

  Codifying Eligibility Dates for OLCC Regulatory Specialists (SB 699)
  Presented by Jennifer Howald
 

6. Next meeting – July 25, 2024, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting at 9:00 a.m.

 

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. 


Wed. 03/27/24
Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash Investigation
Bend Police Dept. - 03/27/24 8:58 PM

The Bend Police Department and Oregon State Police are currently investigating a fatal motor vehicle accident that occurred in the southbound lanes of the Parkway (Hwy 97) at Reed Market (Exit 139). The Parkway will be closed for an extended period. Please avoid the area. Detours are in place. 


Oregon OSHA fines Bend construction company $103,438 for repeatedly violating fall protection requirement (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 03/27/24 4:27 PM
DCBS logo
DCBS logo
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1073/171086/thumb_DCBS-logo-blue.jpg

Salem – The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) has fined a Bend construction company $103,438 for repeatedly violating a requirement to provide protective systems to safeguard workers from fall hazards that could seriously injure or kill them.

The division cited Sky Ridge Construction LLC following an inspection that focused on a job site where work was being done on new houses. The inspection was conducted under Oregon OSHA’s prevention-based emphasis program addressing fall hazards in all industries.

The inspection found multiple employees working on a roof without fall protection. They were exposed to a potential fall of 18 feet to the ground. Sky Ridge Construction had violated a rule requiring employers to ensure that fall protection systems are provided, installed, and implemented where employees are exposed to a hazard of falling 6 feet or more to a lower level, according to the inspection.

During the inspection, the company corrected the violation identified by Oregon OSHA. 

It was the third time since January 2022 that Sky Ridge Construction violated fall protection requirements. Because of the repeat offenses, the penalty for the violation was multiplied, with Oregon OSHA imposing a $103,438 penalty.

Falls are one of the leading causes of death in the construction industry.

“There is no good reason for an employer to direct employees to work at heights without ensuring fall protection systems are effectively used,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “Any employer can get the job done safely by ensuring employees who are working at heights are protected. It’s not an option; it’s a requirement. Workers have a right to work safely, and employers must make that right a reality.” 

Employers have 30 calendar days after receiving a citation to file an appeal.

In addition to its enforcement activities, Oregon OSHA offers employers free resources to help improve workplace safety and health. These resources include the division’s Fall Protection Suite of online video training courses and its A-to-Z topic page about fall protectionThe Fall Protection Suite includes courses addressing fall protection fundamentalsconstructionroofingand ladder safety.

Employers are encouraged to use free resources – available now from Oregon OSHA and involving no fault, no citations, and no penalties – for help protecting their employees:

Consultation services – Provides free help with safety and health programs, including how to control and eliminate hazards, and hands-on training

Technical staff – Helps employers understand requirements and how to apply them to their worksites

###

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

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




Attached Media Files: DCBS logo , Oregon OSHA logo

Portland Area Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to Federal Prison
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 03/27/24 3:39 PM

PORTLAND, Ore.—A local drug trafficker who sourced large quantities of fentanyl from out-of-state contacts with ties to Mexican cartels for redistribution and sale in the Portland area and directed the transport and sale of firearms was sentenced to federal prison today.

Francisco Moncada, 28, who maintained residences in Portland and Vancouver, Washington, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, in October 2021, special agents from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Portland District Office began investigating a drug trafficking organization operating in the Portland area and parts of Washington State. In April 2022, investigators learned that Moncada, who was later determined to be a manager within the drug trafficking organization, was communicating with multiple Portland area drug traffickers to discuss fentanyl sourcing.

On April 18, 2022, law enforcement officers stopped a vehicle being used by Moncada and several associates to transport approximately 15 pounds of fentanyl. Just under two weeks later, on April 28, 2022, officers stopped Moncada a second time and seized an additional 10 pounds of fentanyl. Within days, investigators also obtained information that Moncada had instructed other members of his organization to sell various firearms.

On May 20, 2022, investigators searched Moncada’s Portland and Vancouver residences and seized seven firearms and two pounds of fentanyl. Between October 2021 and August 2022, investigators located and seized 50 pounds of fentanyl, 40 pounds of methamphetamine, and smaller quantities of cocaine, heroin, and marijuana from Moncada and his associates, and made 16 arrests connected to their organization.

On May 21, 2022, Moncada and three others were charged my federal criminal complaint with conspiring with one another to possess and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl. On June 14, 2022, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Moncada and eight associates for conspiring with one another to distribute fentanyl. Moncada was also charged with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On December 20, 2023, Moncada became the tenth member of his organization to plead guilty and, today, becomes the seventh member to be sentenced to federal prison. Four others are awaiting sentencing and one is a fugitive.

This case was investigated by DEA with assistance from the FBI Vancouver Resident Agency, Vancouver Police Department, Oregon State Police, Oregon City Police Department and Washington State Department of Corrections. It was prosecuted by Bryan Chinwuba, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

This prosecution is the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the U.S. by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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Attached Media Files: PDF Release

Oregon Community Trees seeks poster presentations on trees and housing case studies for urban forestry conference (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/27/24 2:50 PM
Oregon Community Trees is seeking poster presentations about trees and housing to display at the June 27 urban forestry conference in Eugene. Deadline is May 24.
Oregon Community Trees is seeking poster presentations about trees and housing to display at the June 27 urban forestry conference in Eugene. Deadline is May 24.
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1072/171079/thumb_IMG_2116.JPG

EUGENE, Ore. – Oregon Community Trees (OCT) is inviting students and organizations to submit abstracts on case studies or research to present as a poster presentation at this year’s Oregon Urban Forestry conference. The conference is being held on Thursday, June 27 in Eugene at Venue 252. This year’s theme is “More Housing, More Trees: Giving Oregonians Both.”

OCT is organizing the conference, which is co-sponsored by the Oregon Dept. of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service. Presentations can be about successes in preserving large, healthy shade trees or room to plant them on residential or commercial properties that were developed or redeveloped with an increased density level. Also sought are presentations about methods of tree preservation during construction, ideas for redesigning streets and right-of-way planting strips to make room for larger trees, and similar concepts.

Posters are limited to 30” x 40”. All selected posters will be displayed at the conference. To be considered for selection you must be able to attend the conference and be on hand to answer questions from people visiting the poster display area during breaks, the lunch hour, and the social hour following the conference. Discount tickets for students are available for $80 (includes lunch). Some scholarships are available for those who can submit a statement of financial need.

Submissions should be sent via 2024 UCF Conference Poster Application Form no later than Friday, May 17th by 5:00 p.m. 

Please reach out to Samantha Wolf at sammwolf@gmail.com for any questions or concerns. 

Posters can be set up the day before the conference on Wednesday, June 26 from noon to 4:30 p.m. All poster presenters are expected to register for the conference. Poster presenters can go online at oregoncommunitytrees.org to register and get information about the Conference and the Poster Presentations. 

You must be registered by the early registration deadline of May 25th, 2024.




Attached Media Files: Oregon Community Trees is seeking poster presentations about trees and housing to display at the June 27 urban forestry conference in Eugene. Deadline is May 24.

State of Oregon settles with cryptocurrency asset platform (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Consumer & Business Services - 03/27/24 1:57 PM
Division of Financial Regulation logo
Division of Financial Regulation logo
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Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has reached a settlement agreement in principle with a cryptocurrency asset platform for violating state securities regulations.

The group of affiliated companies – Plutus Financial Holdings Inc., Plutus Financial Inc., Plutus Lending LLC and Abra Boost LLC – offered and sold interest-bearing cryptocurrency depository products referred to as Abra Boost and Abra Earn.

As part of the settlement, the companies – commonly known as Abra – are required to notify all Oregon consumers with open accounts containing crypto assets with the companies that they are winding down U.S. operations and to encourage consumers to move any remaining crypto assets from the platform.

Consumers have at least seven days from the date they receive notice to remove their assets from the Abra platform. Assets remaining after that date with a value of $10 or more will be converted to fiat and a check or other instrument will be sent directly to the consumer’s last known address. 

In Oregon, 167 residents still have cryptocurrencies on the Abra platform valued at about $32,387.14.

The companies – controlled by William “Bill” Barhydt, who is also a party to the settlement – offered Abra Earn to all U.S. clients and Abra Boost to accredited U.S. clients. Investors in both programs earned interest by depositing digital assets with Abra and authorizing Abra to lend client assets to institutional borrowers.

“Although firms are creating new products tied to evolving technologies, they must continue to comply with existing securities laws,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “The division will continue to ensure that investors purchasing securities tied to digital assets are afforded the same protections as investors purchasing stocks, bonds and other traditional products.”

As part of the settlement, Abra and Barhydt will enter a consent order with DFR requiring that they cease and desist from offering or selling unregistered securities in Oregon and ordering them to pay an administrative penalty, which will be suspended if they comply with the process to return all assets owned by Oregon consumers before April 25, 2024.

“We strongly encourage clients in Oregon to withdraw their assets as soon as possible, but certainly within seven days of receiving notice from Abra,” said Keen. “We are available to assist and answer consumers’ questions about this settlement.” 

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The Division of Financial Regulation is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.




Attached Media Files: Division of Financial Regulation logo

Fatal Crash - Hwy 101 - Curry County
Oregon State Police - 03/27/24 1:03 PM

Curry County, Ore. 25 Mar. 24- On Monday, March 25, 2024, at 10:06 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy-101, near milepost 342, in Curry County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Chrysler 300, operated by Warren David Laville (75) of Gold Beach, was stopped for an ODOT flagger when a Toyota Matrix, operated by Elaine Vicky Rosinbaum (55) of Coos Bay, collided with the rear of the Chrysler. 

The operator of the Chrysler (Warren Laville) was transported and declared deceased at the hospital. A passenger in the Chrysler, Mary Louise Laville (74) of Gold Beach, was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

The operator of the Toyota (Rosinbaum) was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation. The crash is still under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Curry County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

 

###

 

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


Western Oregon University alum highlights social work career (Photo)
Western Oregon University - 03/27/24 11:52 AM
2024-03/1107/171069/Michael_Waller_PR.png
2024-03/1107/171069/Michael_Waller_PR.png
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1107/171069/thumb_Michael_Waller_PR.png

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to highlight the accomplishments of alumnus Michael Waller ‘08. Waller received a bachelor’s degree in social science from Western, leading him to a career in social work.

Western introduced Waller to his two passions which are acting and sociology. Waller shares that he always knew he wanted to help people and while at Western,  learned there were a multitude of avenues he could take. Currently, he is a school social worker at McDaniel High School in Portland and a working actor. 

“One of the biggest things I learned at Western was to take chances. I did not believe that I could get into some of the things I’m into today. I was introduced to some staff at Western who really challenged me,” shared Waller. “They challenged me to have critical thinking and I wouldn’t be where I’m at without it. I recommend Western to everyone.” 

Waller’s story is a testament to Western’s commitment to supporting students in discovering and following their passions. His dedication to supporting youth through social work exemplifies the impactful contributions that Western alumni make to society, showcasing the values of compassion, leadership, and excellence instilled by their alma mater.

Watch Michael Waller’s success story

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon's oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction.  Together we succeed.

https://wou.edu/2024/03/27/western-oregon-university-alum-highlights-social-work-career/




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1107/171069/Michael_Waller_PR.png

Tue. 03/26/24
Share your strength: Give blood or platelets with the Red Cross
American Red Cross - Cascades Region - 03/26/24 1:00 PM

Exclusive Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire + Red Cross T-shirt for coming to give through April 7

 

Portland, OR (March 26, 2024) — This spring, the American Red Cross asks donors to help defend the blood supply by giving blood or platelets now to combat a monstrous fact: only 3 out of 100 people donate blood. That’s why we’re teaming up with Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures to celebrate the epic new film, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, and inviting donors to rise together and give blood. When donors share their strength by coming to give March 25-April 7, they’ll get an exclusive Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire and Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. (Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/GXK.) 

 

In recent weeks, the Red Cross has seen an encouraging increase in the blood supply, but blood and platelet donation appointments remain vital this month. People of all blood types – especially those with type O blood – are critical to ensuring hospital shelves can be replenished as soon as possible.

 

To book a time to give, visit RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS. Additionally, all who come to give April 8-28 will get a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,000 gift cards. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Spring for details. 

 

Additional upcoming blood donation opportunities March 27-April 15

 

March 27

Fred Meyer, 3500 SE 22nd Ave, Portland, OR, 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM

Lloyd Center Mall, 2201 Lloyd Center, Portland, OR, 12:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Portland Blood Donation Center, 3131 N Vancouver Ave., Portland, OR, 11:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Blood Donation Center, 1860 Hawthorne Ave NE, Salem, OR, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

RRMC-Smullin Center, 2825 East Barnett Rd, Medford, OR, 10:30 AM - 04:00 PM

 

March 28

Milwaukie Community Center, 5440 SE Kellogg Creek Dr., Milwaukie, OR, 12:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Virtual Supply, 5825 SW Arctic Dr, Beaverton, OR, 9:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Blood Donation Center, 3131 N Vancouver Ave., Portland, OR, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Rogue Credit Union, 1370 Center Dr., Medford, OR, 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

 

April 1

Northwest Christian Church Tigard, 13405 SW Hall Blvd, Tigard, OR, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Starbucks, 3590 SW Cedar Hills Blvd, Beaverton, OR, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Starbucks, 3348 Gateway St., Springfield, OR, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Riverside Seventh Day Adventist Church-Washougal, 463 N. Shepherd Rd, Washougal, WA, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

 

April 5

Christ the King Lutheran Church, 11305 SW Bull Mountain Rd, Tigard, OR, 1:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Carmax, 13750 SE Johnson Rd, Milwaukie, OR, 11:30 AM - 05:00 PM

Blood Donation Center, 3131 N Vancouver Avenue, Portland, OR, 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints River Rd, 3132 River Rd, Eugene, OR, 12:00 PM - 05:00 PM

Coastal Farm & Ranch Eugene, 2200 W. 6th St, Eugene, OR, 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM

 

April 9

U.S. Investors International, 12665 SW 69th, Portland, OR, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Pacific Audiology Clinic, 5200 S Macadam Ave Ste 200, Portland, OR, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Blood Donation Center, 1174 Progress Drive Suite 102, Medford, OR, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Blood Donation Center, 5109 NE 82nd Ave, Vancouver, WA, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

 

April 10

Eastmoreland Golf Course, 2425 SE Bybee Blvd, Portland, OR, 12:30 PM - 5:30 PM

 

April 13

West Linn Lutheran Church, 20390 Willamette Dr, West Linn, OR, 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM

Sikh Center of Oregon, 17514 SW Scholls Ferry Rd, Beaverton, OR, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

 

April 15

Biomedical Information Communications Center, 3280 SW Sam Jackson Road, Portland, OR, 12:30 PM - 6:00 PM

Elks Lodge 1989, 3464 SW 106th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 12:00 PM - 05:00 PM

Fred Meyer, 3805 SE Hawthorne, Portland, OR, 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Lausmann Annex, 200 S Ivy Street, Medford, OR, 9:30 AM - 03:00 PM

 

  

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

 

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

 

Amplify your impact − volunteer! 

Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check-in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience. 

 

Volunteers can also serve as transportation specialists, playing a vital role in ensuring lifesaving blood products are delivered to nearby hospitals. For more information and to apply for either position, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday

 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood and is the primary blood supplier to 65 hospitals throughout Washington and Oregon; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

 

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© 2024 Legendary and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved GODZILLA TM & © TOHO CO., Ltd.

 


Bend Police investigating burglary at Macy's
Bend Police Dept. - 03/26/24 11:53 AM

Date: March 26, 2024

Case #: 2024-00016396

Incident: Bend Police investigating burglary at Macy’s 

Date / Time of Incident: March 26, 2024 / 5:30 a.m. 

Location: Macy’s, 3188 N Highway 97, Bend

At approximately 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 26, Bend Police responded to a report of a burglary at Macy’s in the Bend River Promenade. 

An employee who received an alarm notification conducted a walk-through of the store and called Deschutes County 911 Dispatch to report the store appeared to have been burglarized. 

Officers found evidence of a forced entry on the east side of the building, with damage to the doors. Officers, including K9 Pluto and his handler, searched the building and found no one inside. 

In the store, police found 12 cash registers broken into with approximately $4,000 in cash removed. 

The investigation is ongoing. 


Board on Public Safety Standards and Training Meeting Scheduled 4-25-2024
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 03/26/24 11:17 AM

BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

 

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 25, 2024, in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Shelby Wright at (503) 378-2191 or shelby.wright@dpsst.oregon.gov.

Effective Jan. 1, 2024, the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training will be live streaming all public meetings via YouTube. Meetings will no longer be streamed on Facebook. To view the Board's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

 

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Meeting Minutes

     Approve minutes from the January 25, 2024, Meeting

3. Fire Policy Committee

a. Fire Policy Committee Update – Brian Henson, Deputy Director

b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. William Comeford, DPSST No. 34996; Portland Fire & Rescue – No Action

Unanimous vote with two (2) recusals to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 28, 2024.

B. Curtis Deetz, DPSST No. 31371; Portland Fire & Rescue – No Action

Unanimous vote with three (3) recusals to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 28, 2024. 

C. Committee Appointments

Fire Policy Committee

  • Shawn Olson – Oregon Fire Marshals Association Representative, Appointment to the FPC, 1st term effective August 20, 2024.

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

a. Police Policy Committee Update – Scotty Nowning, Chair

b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair

c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Matthew English, Chair

d. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. Ruben Benavidez, DPSST No. 50462; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution– Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024. 

B. Randy Bocchi, DPSST No. 45164; Klamath County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

C. Chandler Bolton, DPSST No. 56778; Linn County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 22, 2024.

D. Kodie Carroll, DPSST No. 64023; Jackson County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

E. Tina Earhart, DPSST No. 61184; DOC/Santiam Correctional Institution – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

F. Roderick Hogan, DPSST No. 60731; Washington County Consolidated Communications 911 Agency – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on February 7, 2024.

G. Stephen Naber, DPSST No. 54246; Lane County Sheriff’s Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 22, 2024.

H. Joshua Patterson, DPSST No. 45007; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

I. Caden Powell, DPSST No. 54126; DOC/Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

J. Susan Ramos, DPSST No. 61253; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

K. Robert Rosales, DPSST No. 36499; Springfield Police Department – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 22, 2024.

L. Ernest Slye IV, DPSST No. 61466; Oregon State University Department of Public Safety – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on February 7, 2024.

M. Travis Stice, DPSST No. 60272; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

N. Timothy Sundin, DPSST No. 39688; DOC/Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 13, 2024.

O. Law Enforcement Memorial Wall Nomination; George M. Lowe, (EOW 1919) – Ashland Police Department

Determine eligibility for addition to Oregon’s Law Enforcement Memorial Wall

P. Committee Appointments

Police Policy Committee

  • Megan Townsend– Non-Management Law Enforcement, Appointment to the PPC, 1st term effective April 28, 2024.
  • Kevin Dresser– Non-Management Law Enforcement, Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective April 25, 2024.
  • Rob Wood– Public Member, Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective July 26, 2024.

Corrections Policy Committee

  • Michael Mays– Non-Management Corrections, Appointment to the CPC, 1st term effective April 25, 2024.
  • Joshua Aldrich– Oregon Jail Command Council Representative, Appointment to the CPC, 1st term effective April 28, 2024.
  • John Frost–Non-Management Corrections Employed by DOC, Re-appointment to the CPC, 2nd term effective April 28, 2024.

Telecommunications Policy Committee

  • Brandon Hamilton– Oregon Fire Chiefs Association Representative, Appointment to the TPC, 1st term effective July 28, 2024.
  • Travis Ash– Oregon State Sheriffs Association Representative, Re-appointment to the TPC, 2nd term effective July 28, 2024.

5. Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

a. Private Security Investigator Policy Committee Update – Dan Lenzen, Chair

b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) Chapter 259 Division 59

Adopting Permanent Rules for the Private Security Entity Licensing Program

Five (5) to four (4) vote to recommend to the Board by the PSIPC on February 20, 2024.

B. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0130

Related to Executive Managers Providing Contract Services

Eight (8) to one (1) vote with one abstention to recommend to the Board by the PSIPC on February 20, 2024.

C. Committee Appointments

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

  • Samantha Schrantz – Private Investigator, Re- appointment to the PSIPC, 2nd term effective July 28, 2024.

6. Legislative Actions

a. Proposed Legislative Concept Request

Fire Policy Committee Membership Housekeeping

Jennifer Howald

b. Proposed Legislative Concept Request

Deferred Professional Standards Cases and DPSST Jurisdiction

Jennifer Howald

c. Policy Option Packages: Placeholder – Agency Director, Phil Castle

7. Agency Updates - Agency Director, Phil Castle

8. Next Meeting Date: July 25, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.
 

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Board members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.


Jason Holland and Jenny R. Stadler appointed to Oregon Arts Commission (Photo)
Oregon Arts Commission - 03/26/24 10:48 AM
Jason Holland
Jason Holland
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1418/171036/thumb_Jason_Holland.jpg

Salem, Oregon – Jason Holland, the executive director of the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, and Jenny R. Stadler, the executive director of PHAME Academy, have been appointed to the Oregon Arts Commission by Governor Tina Kotek. 

Jenny and Jason are community-centered arts advocates who tirelessly work to elevate the arts in Oregon,” said Commission Chair Subashini Ganesan-Forbes. “The Arts Commission will gain tremendously from these two remarkable organizational leaders because they are also deeply committed to their own individual artistic practices. As the Commission continues to fine tune how we serve artists, arts organizations and all Oregonians, having artists at the leadership table is vital.”

At Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, Holland works to celebrate, develop and promote community arts in addition to managing and operating the Newport Performing Arts and Visual Arts Centers. He has worked in the arts nonprofit sector for 20 years with broad-based operational and programmatic leadership at both large and small arts organizations. Holland currently sits on the boards of the Economic Development Alliance of Lincoln County, Pride Newport and the Lincoln County Cultural Coalition. His artistic background is in instrumental and vocal music, as well as in theater – where he has directed plays and musicals for many years.

“Being appointed by Governor Kotek as an Oregon Arts Commissioner brings with it a profound responsibility –,” said Holland, “to nurture the creative soul of Oregon, to help Oregonians weave the vibrant tapestry of our cultural heritage throughout this beautiful state, and to advocate tirelessly for the transformative power of the arts in all of our communities. Serving Oregon in this capacity is truly an honor.”  

Stadler has been the executive director of PHAME Academy since 2017, working to create more equitable arts opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through PHAME's school, performances and outreach programs. After receiving her Ph.D. in psychology, she left academia to work in the nonprofit sector, running a start-up education organization and later fundraising, developing curricula and supporting organizations in long-range planning. As a long-time choral singer and theater fan, Stadler’s heart has always been in the arts, and when an opportunity arose to move into arts administration in 2013, she “jumped and hasn't looked back,” she said. Jenny lives with chronic illness and is also a singer and board member for the Choral Arts Ensemble of Portland. 

“I’m deeply honored to be appointed to the Oregon Arts Commission and thrilled to serve alongside this group of dedicated and thoughtful leaders,” said Stadler. “While we’ve come so far in our state in bringing equity, diversity and inclusion into the arts conversation; disability still is so often left behind, and I am overjoyed to see the state choosing to center disability within its arts work. I’m looking forward to elevating the voices of our community—and of communities statewide—because everyone deserves access to the arts, at every level.”

Holland and Stadler begin their four-year terms immediately.

                

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


The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. More information about the Oregon Arts Commission is available online at artscommission.oregon.gov.




Attached Media Files: Jason Holland , Jenny R. Stadler

OHA Reproductive Health Program launches Abortion Access website
Oregon Health Authority - 03/26/24 10:32 AM

March 26, 2024

Media Contact: Larry Bingham, 971-239-6499, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA Reproductive Health Program launches Abortion Access website

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Reproductive Health Program at Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has launched a new website that makes it easier for people to seek abortion care information and services.

The Abortion Access in Oregon website, viewable at oregon.gov/abortion, includes webpages and links with current and accurate information about accessing abortion services in Oregon, including:

  • Information About Abortion – Describes different types of abortion services, including some frequently asked questions.
  • Legal Rights and Privacy – Explains people’s legal and privacy rights to abortion in Oregon.
  • Where to Get an Abortion – Includes a list of abortion providers in Oregon, as well as resources for accessing abortion services outside of Oregon.
  • Paying for an Abortion – Provides information about different options to help cover the cost of abortion services.
  • Abortion Access Plan – Describes OHA’s program to cover abortion services for people who have health insurance through Providence, or whose religious employers provide insurance that does not cover abortion.
  • Abortion Support – Includes resources for travel and other related support, as well as resources related to emotional support before, during and after an abortion.

“The new Abortion Access in Oregon website helps us reaffirm to people in Oregon that abortion remains legal and protected in our state, and that anyone who comes to our state for an abortion, regardless of immigration status, has the legal and protected right to that abortion service, not just Oregon residents,” Governor Tina Kotek said.

“As challenges to women's reproductive freedom mount across the country, OHA remains staunchly committed to protecting access to the full range of reproductive health care -- including and especially abortion, fertility services, and contraception -- for all those who live in and visit our state,” said OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi. “The foundation of access is knowledge: of your rights, of available services, of the nuts and bolts of obtaining care. This website takes us one step closer to sharing that knowledge, and enabling greater access to protected care.”

The Abortion Access in Oregon website was created in collaboration with community, clinical and state partners to ensure the information it contains is relevant to, and accessible for, people seeking abortion care in Oregon.

OHA’s Reproductive Health Program, based at the state Public Health Division, has asked community, clinical and state partners to share the website link with their colleagues and staffs, as well as with community members and patients they serve.

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Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee meets April 8
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/26/24 9:09 AM

SALEM, Ore. — The Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee will meet virtually on Monday, April 8, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

  • Welcome and introductions
  • CBM website updates
  • CBM rule revisions
  • Training providers and curriculum development
  • Instructor guide
  • Field certification books
  • Updates
    • Past and future course deliveries
    • Legislation
    • ODF prescribed fire policy development

The meeting is open to the public to attend virtually. There will be a period for public comment. 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 CBMAC webpage.


Mon. 03/25/24
Tsunami Awareness Week is March 24 to 30: Be prepared!
Oregon Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries - 03/25/24 4:30 PM

PORTLAND, Ore. – Exploring the Oregon coast this spring break? Take time to plan for an earthquake and tsunami before your adventure.     

March marks the anniversaries of two significant earthquake and tsunami disasters that impacted the Oregon coast: the March 11, 2011, Tohoku event in Japan and the March 27, 1964, Alaska megathrust earthquake and tsunami. Both events produced ‘distant’ tsunami that were triggered thousands of miles away, but eventually reached the Oregon coast ~9.5 and 4 hours after the earthquakes, respectively. Because those earthquakes occurred far from Oregon, Oregonians would not have felt the ground shaking prior to the arrival of their associated tsunami. 

Of greater concern on the Oregon and Washington coasts is a locally generated megathrust earthquake and tsunami triggered by movement along the Cascadia Subduction Zone, located ~50 miles offshore. In such an event, residents and visitors will feel strong ground shaking, potentially lasting several minutes, prior to the arrival of a tsunami that would reach the Oregon coast between 10-30 minutes later. “A Cascadia subduction zone earthquake could happen anytime – even during vacations,” says Oregon State Geologist Ruarri Day-Stirrat. “Plan now to be ready no matter where you are.” DOGAMI scientist Jonathan Allan adds: “The recent Tohoku Japan earthquake and tsunami showed us how destructive a locally generated subduction zone earthquake and tsunami could be, and that Oregonians need to be prepared for its eventuality.” 

Residents and visitors can prepare for tsunami by becoming familiar with Oregon’s tsunami evacuation maps, developed by DOGAMI. The maps are available at the Oregon Tsunami Clearinghouse (https://www.oregontsunami.org) and viewable online using the Nanoos viewer (https://nvs.nanoos.org/TsunamiEvac). The maps provide information about potential tsunami inundation zones for both distant and local tsunamis and information about how fast people need to travel to reach high ground and “beat the wave.” 

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management encourages individuals, families, and communities to take steps to “Be 2 Weeks Ready” for any emergency or disaster, including earthquakes and tsunami. Being 2 Weeks Ready means having an emergency plan and enough supplies for you and everyone in your household, including pets, to survive for at least two weeks after a disaster. It also means being informed: Review available information about earthquakes and tsunami from state and local sources, sign up to receive local emergency alerts at https://oralert.gov/, and make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are activated on your mobile phone. 

Additional resources to help Oregonians learn about earthquakes and associated hazards: 

Oregon Tsunami Clearinghouse: Access to a wide variety of tsunami information, including evacuation maps, maritime brochures, educational materials, and planning guidance. https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/tsuclearinghouse/Pages/default.aspx

NANOOS Tsunami Evacuation Zones: Tsunami evacuation zone maps along the Oregon and Washington coasts.  https://nvs.nanoos.org/TsunamiEvac

Oregon Department of Emergency Management:  Learn more about what to do in event of an earthquake, and find advice and guides on how individuals, communities, and businesses can prepare.  https://www.oregon.gov/oem/hazardsprep/pages/earthquakes.aspx

ShakeAlert:  An early-alert system that can send notifications to mobile devices and emergency alert systems in the event of a potentially damaging earthquake. https://www.shakealert.org/ 

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Oregon Department of Corrections and Oregon Corrections Enterprises Partner to Provide Work Release Program
Oregon Dept. of Corrections - 03/25/24 10:51 AM

Oregon Corrections Enterprises (OCE) is honored to be selected by the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) to facilitate work release partnerships. OCE proudly announces its first work release partnership with Pacific Pine Products Inc., located in Lakeview, Oregon. Woodworking industry jobs pay above a livable wage, and the local labor shortage has created a high demand for jobs of this nature. As independent research shows, successful work training opportunities, like the OCE/Pacific Pine Products Inc. partnership, are critical for rehabilitation and successful re-entry into the community.

Adults in custody will be screened for community safety and must have a willingness and desire for self-improvement. They will be transported from the Warner Creek Correctional Facility (WCCF) to the local factory. Pacific Pine Products will train the participants for a wide variety of jobs. Participants will learn and develop highly valued technical and general employment skills which will assist their re-entry into society. Per federal guidelines and authorized by the Oregon Constitution, participants will receive hourly wages from OCE as part of the Prison Industry Enhancement Certification Program. 

  • There will be a celebration of the collaborative partnership on April 2, 2023, 9:30 am at Pacific Pine Products, located at 17634 Highway 395, Lakeview, OR. 
  • Media interested in attending can contact Sam Snyder, sam.m.snyder@doc.oregon.gov, 541-947-8215.

Pacific Pine Products, Inc. is a family-owned business in operation since 1988. They design and build custom doors for residential and commercial properties – including wooden interior doors, custom entry doors, exterior residential doors, and rustic closet doors.

DOC oversees a network of 12 state prisons in Oregon. DOC protects public safety, holds offenders accountable, and requires them to take personal responsibility both for their crimes and for their behavior within DOC institutions. The Oregon Constitution and DOC allow for rehabilitation or reformation through programs and services. This combination ultimately contributes to successful reintegration to Oregon’s communities.

Oregon Corrections Enterprises was established through the passage of Ballot Measure 68 by the people of Oregon with the purpose of helping DOC meet its constitutional mandate created by Measure 17. OCE, the former DOC Corrections Industries program, was authorized as a semi-independent state agency whose finances are completely separated by statute from DOC. OCE receives no direct taxpayer dollars. Instead, OCE is funded entirely through sales of its products and services.

 

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One arrested after victim reaches out to National Human Trafficking Hotline
Bend Police Dept. - 03/25/24 10:34 AM

Date: March 25, 2024

Case #: 2024-00015438

Incident: One arrested after victim reaches out to National Human Trafficking Hotline

Date / Time of Incident: March 21, 2024 / 2:16 a.m. 

Location: Red Lion Inn & Suites, 15 NE Butler Market Road, Bend

Arrested: Orlando S. Smith, 33-year-old Vancouver, Wash., resident

Offenses: Assault IV, Promoting Prostitution, Out-of-county warrant

At approximately 2:16 a.m. on Thursday, March 21, Bend Police responded to a report of a possible sex crime and human trafficking.

According to Deschutes County 911 Dispatch, a 31-year-old Salem woman texted the National Human Trafficking Hotline to report that she was being forced to engage in commercial sex acts and was being held against her will in a room at the Red Lion Inn & Suites on NE Butler Market Road.  

After multiple attempts to contact the victim went unanswered, officers knocked and announced themselves, ordering those inside to open the door. When the victim answered the door, officers evacuated the victim and took the suspect, identified as 33-year-old Vancouver, Wash., resident Orlando Smith, into custody. 

During a later interview with the victim, she told police that Smith had punched her in the face multiple times and forced her to engage in sex acts with multiple men over the course of two days. Officers located an online ad for the victim, as well as more than $1,000 in Smith’s possession. 

Smith was arrested on suspicion of fourth-degree assault and promoting prostitution, and was cited for a warrant involving a traffic offense in Salem. He was lodged at the Deschutes County Jail. 

If you or someone you know is involved in a trafficking situation, you can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, or text 233733. Advocates are available 24/7 to take reports of potential human trafficking.


Six Oregon communities receive grants from Oregon Community Trees to boost Arbor Month celebrations (Photo)
Oregon Dept. of Forestry - 03/25/24 10:29 AM
A dozen Oregon white oak trees like this one will be planted in Lake Oswego thanks to a grant from Oregon Community Trees. Five other Oregon cities from Redmond to Rogue River and Dallas to Pendleton are also getting small grants coinciding with Oregon Arbor Month in April.
A dozen Oregon white oak trees like this one will be planted in Lake Oswego thanks to a grant from Oregon Community Trees. Five other Oregon cities from Redmond to Rogue River and Dallas to Pendleton are also getting small grants coinciding with Oregon Arbor Month in April.
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1072/171008/thumb_Quercus_garryana_014.JPG

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Community Trees (OCT) is helping boost Oregon Arbor Month celebrations in six Oregon communities this year thanks to grants the non-profit organization is giving out this spring. Holding a public celebration of Arbor Day is a condition for maintaining Tree City USA status from the national Arbor Day Foundation. 

OCT Board member Morgan Holen coordinates the grant giving. She said Tree City USA communities receiving grants from OCT this year are:

  • Coburg
  • Dallas
  • Lake Oswego
  • Pendleton
  • Redmond
  • Rogue River

“We’re happy to be funding Arbor Day events in every part of the state from the Willamette Valley to eastern and southern Oregon,” said Holen. “These events build awareness of the importance of trees to communities and engage residents in direct, memorable ways that build support for urban forests.”

Holen said grants range from $350 to $720. The smallest grant goes to buy commemorative T-shirts for Coburg elementary school tree planters. The largest goes to Lake Oswego to buy 12 Oregon white oak trees to be planted in the Woodmont Natural Area. The planting will help replace trees lost in the wake of the January 2024 wind and ice storm.

This is the first year the City of Dallas is receiving a grant. OCT is fully funding the City’s request to offer free to the public two, 2-hour sessions of “forest bathing” – stress-reduction led by a Certified Forest Therapy Guide in a forest setting in Delbert Hunter Arboretum.

Rogue River will use its grant to buy a Japanese snowbell tree, shovels, rakes, a reusable canopy and children’s art contest supplies and take‐home gifts for a tree-planting ceremony at the city arboretum in Palmerton Park. 

Pendleton is using its grant to purchase larger and more diverse species of trees seedling than ever to distribute at its annual Arbor Day tree seedling giveaway. The City estimates around 500 participants will attend their event. 

The City of Redmond is also receiving an OCT grant for the first time. Redmond will hold a fuels-reduction work party in the Dry Canyon City Park, and will use OCT funds to buy T-shirts with a juniper-themed educational design for Heart of Oregon volunteer youth during the event.

About Oregon Community Trees

Oregon Community Trees is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 whose mission is to promote healthy urban and community forests through leadership, education, awareness, and advocacy. OCT serves as the Oregon Dept. of Forestry’s advisory board on urban forestry issues.

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Attached Media Files: A dozen Oregon white oak trees like this one will be planted in Lake Oswego thanks to a grant from Oregon Community Trees. Five other Oregon cities from Redmond to Rogue River and Dallas to Pendleton are also getting small grants coinciding with Oregon Arbor Month in April.

Deadline approaching for Oregon State Fire Marshal sparky award nominations (Photo)
Oregon State Fire Marshal - 03/25/24 7:54 AM
2024-03/1062/171000/Golden_Sparky.jpg
2024-03/1062/171000/Golden_Sparky.jpg
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/1062/171000/thumb_Golden_Sparky.jpg

SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon State Fire Marshal is calling on Oregonians and local fire agencies to submit their nominations for the prestigious Golden and Silver Sparky Awards. The awards recognize outstanding achievements in fire prevention and public safety education. These awards honor the dedication and commitment of people and organizations working to create safer communities.

The Golden Sparky is awarded to a fire service member or agency demonstrating exemplary efforts in fire prevention or public safety education. The Silver Sparky recognizes the remarkable contributions of civilians or civilian agencies demonstrating exemplary efforts in fire prevention or public safety education.

Nominations for these awards are open until April 1, 2024. To nominate deserving candidates, simply submit a nomination form along with a detailed explanation and examples showcasing the nominee's exceptional achievements.

For more information and to access the nomination form, please visit the OSFM Sparky Award webpage or contact us at licaffairs.osfm@osfm.oregon.gov">publicaffairs.osfm@osfm.oregon.gov.

Don't miss this opportunity to recognize those who go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities. Submit your nominations and help us celebrate the remarkable contributions of individuals and agencies in fire prevention and public safety education.




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/1062/171000/Golden_Sparky.jpg

Sun. 03/24/24
Fatal Crash - HWY 202 - Clatsop County
Oregon State Police - 03/24/24 8:18 AM

Clatsop County, Ore. 22 Mar. 24- On Friday, March 22, 2024, at 11:15 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Hwy-202, near milepost 3.5, in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound BMW 328, operated by Alexander Campuzano Luna (22) of Seaside, left the roadway for unknown reasons, overturned, and came to rest upside down in a shallow body of water. 

The solo occupant of the BMW was declared deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately 6.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is unknown at this time, however speed is being considered a contributing factor.

OSP was assisted by the Clatsop County Sheriff's Office, Seaside Fire, Cannon Beach Fire, Olney-Walluski Fire, and ODOT.


Fri. 03/22/24
Fatal Crash - HWY 97 - Klamath County
Oregon State Police - 03/22/24 3:55 PM

Klamath County, Ore. 21 March 24- On Thursday, March 21, 2024, at 12:20 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Hwy-97, near milepost 281, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Ford Econoline van, operated by Carl Francis Kollmar (44) of Klamath Falls, attempted to turn left into a driveway and entered the path of a northbound Peterbilt commercial motor vehicle, operated by Donny Kart Starr (51) of Turlock (CA). The vehicles collided head-on resulting in the Ford van being pushed backward into a southbound Ford Focus, operated by Kessandra Malan Boyd Zambrano (29) of Haquaim (WA). 

A passenger in the Ford Econoline, Scott Lane Nelson (67) of Klamath Falls, was transported and later declared deceased at a local hospital. The operator of the Ford Econoline (Kollmar) reportedly suffered minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

The operator of the Peterbilt (Starr) was reportedly not injured.

The operator of the Ford Focus (Boyd Zambrano) reportedly suffered minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation. The crash investigation is ongoing.

OSP was assisted by District 1 Fire and ODOT.

 

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

 


Memorial service held to honor the 80th Anniversary of the 1944 explosion at former Umatilla Depot (Photo)
Oregon Military Department - 03/22/24 3:30 PM
2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1226.jpg
2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1226.jpg
http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2024-03/962/170986/thumb_240321-Z-CH590-1226.jpg

HERMISTON, Ore. —  The Columbia Development Authority and the Oregon Military Department hosted a memorial service on March 21, 2024 to observe the 80th Anniversary of the 1944 munitions explosion at the former Umatilla Army Ordnance Depot which claimed the lives of six workers. 

Oregon State Rep. Greg Smith, representing the Columbia Development Authority, spoke to those who gathered to pay tribute to the six people who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“The cause of the explosion has never been determined, however what we do know is that six civilians lost their lives that day,” Smith said. “It is important that we recognize the men and women who sacrificed for each and every one of us.”

The accidental explosion occurred inside igloo B-1014 on March 21, 1944 at 9:21 p.m., one of 1,002 storage igloos instantly killing Harry D. Sever, Hiram Cook, Kenneth L. Fraser, William Sanders, Alice Wolgamott, and Lance Stultz.

Following Smith’s remarks, a tribal prayer was offered by Raymond Huesties of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, and Oregon National Guard Chaplain (Col.) Jacob Scott offered a prayer to those gathered at the memorial site.

“On this spring day we pause to remember and honor the service to our nation the six people who perished in the igloo explosion on this spot eighty years ago today,” Scott said. “They were part of a massive effort to defend America and the world against tyranny.”

Oregon National Guard serviced members took part in the ceremony with an honor guard unit presenting the colors with music presented for the national anthem, as taps were played after a wreath was laid by members of the American Legion Post 37.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, a procession was led by the Oregon Military Department Wildland Fire back to the Rees Training Center to the Explosion Site Memorial Plaque for a moment of silence, led by Chaplain Scott.

In remarks held after the two ceremonies, State Sen. Bill Hansell reflected on the sober significance of the explosion.

“Can you imagine if you had a loved one working the swing shift that evening and the concern you would have wondering if they would walk through the door,” Hansell said. “It’s fitting that we pause and remember their sacrifices."

As the United States prepared for WWII, the U.S. Army began building a military munitions and supply depot on twenty thousand acres of land located on Umatilla and Morrow counties near Hermiston, Oregon in 1940. The site was selected because it was safe from attacks by sea, as well as the proximity to established railroad lines and a port location on the Columbia River. The Umatilla Depot was renamed the Raymond F. Rees Training Center on Sept. 29, 2022 as the home of the Oregon Army National Guard regional infantry training center.

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Released Photos: 

240321-Z-CH590-1136: An Oregon Army National Guard Color Guard unit presents the colors during the national anthem at the 80th Anniversary ceremony of the 1944 explosion at the former Umatilla Depot, on March 21, 2024 near Hermiston, Oregon. On March 21, 1944, at 9:21 p.m., six civilian workers were killed in a munitions explosion as part of defense of the United States during WWII. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240321-Z-CH590-1169: A member of the American Legion Post 37 in Hermiston, Oregon salutes a wreath at the explosion site at former Umatilla Depot, on March 21, 2024 near Hermiston, Oregon. On March 21, 1944, at 9:21 p.m., six civilian workers were killed in a munitions explosion as part of defense of the United States during WWII. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240321-Z-CH590-1177: An Oregon Army National Guard Soldier plays taps during the 80th Anniversary ceremony of the 1944 explosion at the former Umatilla Depot, on March 21, 2024 near Hermiston, Oregon. On March 21, 1944, at 9:21 p.m., six civilian workers were killed in a munitions explosion as part of defense of the United States during WWII. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240321-Z-CH590-1172: A lone cross marks the site of the 1944 munitions explosion at the former Umatilla Depot, on March 21, 2024 near Hermiston, Oregon following the 80th Anniversary ceremony to honor the six civilian workers killed in a munitions explosion as part of the defense of the United States during WWII. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240321-Z-CH590-1216: Oregon Army National Guard Chaplain (Col.) Jacob Scott leads a moment of since at the historic memorial marker at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon on March 21, 2024. Six civilian workers were killed in a munitions explosion on March 21, 1944 at 9:21 p.m., as part of defense of the United States during WWII. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240321-Z-CH590-1226: State Sen. Bill Hansell addresses those who attended the 80th Anniversary ceremony to honor the six civilian workers killed in a munitions explosion as part of the defense of the United States during WWII. Hansell described growing up near the depot during the Second World War as his family had one of the largest hog farms in the country nearby. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)




Attached Media Files: 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1226.jpg , 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1216.jpg , 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1177.jpg , 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1169.jpg , 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1136.jpg , 2024-03/962/170986/240321-Z-CH590-1072.jpg

OSP Seeking Vehicle Involved in Hit and Run - Marion/Yamhill Counties
Oregon State Police - 03/22/24 2:23 PM

MARION/YAMHILL COUNTY, Ore. 22 March 2024 – The Oregon State Police is seeking the public’s assistance with locating a vehicle and driver involved in a collision with a pedestrian on the bridge between Newberg and St. Paul on Highway 219.  

The incident occurred on March 15, 2024, at approximately 8:30 p.m. 

A pedestrian was walking southbound along the side of the road and was struck by the side mirror of a passing vehicle and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. 

The vehicle is believed to be a newer model (2017-2022) Ford Super Duty pickup and will likely have damage to the passenger side mirror. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact OSP at 800-442-0776 or dial OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number #SP24083039.


PacificSource Health Plans Recognized as a Top Workplace in the USA
PacificSource Health Plans - 03/22/24 1:32 PM

 

(Springfield, Ore.) March 22, 2024— PacificSource Health Plans has been awarded a Top Workplaces USA 2024 honor by Energage, a purpose-driven HR technology company, based solely on employee feedback provided through a confidential survey. The survey, conducted by Energage, uniquely measured the employee experience and its components, including 15 culture drivers that are proven to predict high performance against industry benchmarks.

“This national recognition truly belongs to our staff. They are what makes PacificSource such a wonderful and satisfying place to work. I’m honored to be a part of such a great team that works so hard every day to take care of our members, and each other,” said John “Espi” Espinola, president and CEO of PacificSource.

Top Workplaces by Energage is one of the nation’s most credible employer recognition programs informed by 16 years of feedback data from more than 27 million employees across 70,000 organizations in 60 markets. Its purpose is to recognize organizations across the country that have built exceptional workplace cultures.
 

“Earning a Top Workplaces USA award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees. That's something to be proud of,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO.

About PacificSource Health Plans:

Founded in 1933, PacificSource Health Plans is an independent, not-for-profit community health plan with staff that live and work locally to serve our members throughout Idaho, Oregon, Montana, and Washington. The PacificSource family of companies employs more than 1,800 people and serves over 600,000 individuals throughout the Greater Northwest. For more information, visit PacificSource.com.

 

 

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Oregon Outdoor Recreation Committee meets April 2 to evaluate grant applications
Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept. - 03/22/24 1:07 PM

Salem, OR—The Oregon Outdoor Recreation Committee (OORC) will meet 9 a.m., April 2, to rank and establish a priority list of Land and Water Conservation Fund grant proposals submitted from throughout the state. The proposals are for projects to develop and rehabilitate public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. 

The meeting is open to the public, but there will not be time for public comments. 

The meeting will be held in person at 725 Summer Street NE, Room 124A, Salem, OR 97301. For those unable to attend in person, a Zoom meeting option is available. 

Attend via Zoom (no registration required):
Online: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89598640948?pwd=ZxKl4x8n9HS5T1PW4JS3K8CpLBavt0.1
Passcode: 007105

View the agenda for a list of project proposals and additional meeting information: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/gra/pages/gra-lwcf.aspx . Select the 2023-2024 Schedule link.     

Recommendations from the OORC will be submitted to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for review and approval at their April meeting. OPRD will then forward approved project proposals to the National Park Service for final approval. 

The OORC is made up of nine members who represent a variety of interests and are appointed by the OPRD director.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund Program is a financial assistance program of the National Park Service. LWCF grants provide matching funds to state and local governments for acquiring and developing public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) administers this federally funded grant program for the state.

For more information contact Nohemi Enciso, LWCF Grant Program Coordinator, at 503-480-9092 or nohemi.enciso@oprd.oregon.gov, or visit the LWCF webpage on the OPRD website.