May 22, 2017

Contact: Julianne Repman, Safe Schools Alliance Facilitator
541-355-1010, julianne.repman@bend.k12.or.us


Local Leaders Urge Families to Learn About Youth Suicide Prevention
Hope & Help Education Series Announced at Press Conference Today

Leaders from local schools, law enforcement, health services and more joined together today to invite parents and students to learn more about youth suicide prevention during upcoming Hope & Help: The Reasons You Need to Know About Youth Suicide education events set to take place throughout the region during the next month.

"Suicide is a serious but preventable public health issue," said David Visiko, suicide prevention coordinator with Deschutes County Health Services. "We want to break the silence and the stigma."

The free events will empower parents and youth to talk about suicide and depression in productive, meaningful ways and offer help in finding supportive resources.

"We often hear from community members asking how to start conversations about challenging topics like youth suicide and depression. These events will help parents know how to begin these important discussions," said Jeff Blake, Battalion Chief for Bend Fire Department.

The Hope & Help events are intended for all parents, interested community members and middle and high school age students.

"We need a community conversation. We need all of us to work together on youth suicide. Together we can do this," said Cheryl Emerson, private therapist and suicide prevention expert in Bend. The panelists during the Hope & Help events will address warning signs, risk factors and how parents, other family members and students can identify and respond to someone who might be at risk of suicide.

During these interactive sessions, parents and students alike will learn how to normalize conversations about suicide, how to find resources in our community to support youth through stressful times, and how to help parents and children navigate current entertainment in ways that facilitate increased parent-child communications.

Hope & Help: The Reasons You Need to Know About Youth Suicide

Redmond: May 31, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at High Desert Education Service District
Bend: June 12, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at St. Charles Bend in conference rooms A and B
Sisters: June 14, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Sisters Middle School

Resources:

www.deschutes.org/suicideprevention
Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Text 273TALK to 839-863
Call the local crisis line at 541-322-7500 Ext. 9
Contact school counseling center or other mental health professional
Visit the crisis walk-in center, 2577 NE Courtney, Bend, Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.






#END#


Attached Media Files: Poster for upcoming meetings

Note to media: Please review suicide reporting recommendations prior to the press conference.

http://reportingonsuicide.org/recommendations/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 18, 2017

Contact: Julianne Repman, Safe Schools Alliance Facilitator, 541.355.1010

Safe Schools Alliance Partners Kickoff Youth Suicide Hope & Help Education Series
Media Invited to Press Conference on May 22 in Bend.

Transitioning into adulthood can bring big changes and intense challenges. In Oregon, suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth aged 15-24, surpassed only by accidents. Tragically, between January 1 through May 15 of this year, the Deschutes County Medical Examiner reports that two local youth ended their lives by suicide.

"Teen suicide is a serious problem, but there is hope," said Dr. Susan Keys, National Youth Suicide expert and Bend resident. "Teen suicide is preventable, there are signs to watch for and resources for help."

Dr. Keys is one of more than a dozen local leaders coming together to kick off the Hope & Help Education Series on Monday, May 22 at 10 a.m. at Bend's Municipal Court at 555 NE 15th Street (Corner of Hwy 20 and 15th) in Bend to raise awareness about youth suicide and help our community better prevent its occurrence.

Dr. Keys will be joined at a press conference by Bend Police Chief Jim Porter, Youth Mental Health Specialist Cheryl Emerson, Deschutes County Suicide Prevention Coordinator David Visiko and Medical Director, Dr. Wil Berry, Bend-La Pine Schools Superintendent Shay Mikalson, Sisters School District Superintendent Curtiss Scholl, Redmond School District Executive Director Martha Hinman, St. Charles Heath Services Director of Inpatient Behavioral Health Services Molly Darling, Crook County Schools Principal Kurt Sloper, High Desert Education Service District Superintendent John Rexford, members of the Sunriver, Redmond and Crook County law enforcement agencies and Deschutes County Sheriff's Office.

"Teen suicide is a growing health concern," said Rexford. "With summer vacation just weeks away, Safe Schools Alliance partners want to ensure that parents and students have the resources they need to proactively engage their friends and loved ones in meaningful ways that both help and provide hope to those at risk."

During the press conference, local leaders will announce several upcoming opportunities for family members and their middle and high school youth to attend Safe Schools Alliance's Hope & Help sponsored education events: The Reasons You Need to Know About Youth Suicide. These events will provide attendees with information about suicide prevention, how to find help in the community, particularly when students are away from school in the summer, and how to navigate current entertainment in a way that facilitates parent-child communication.

"As a parent, it is difficult at times to recognize the difference between the typical problems teens have while growing up verses the more serious ones," said Visiko. "These Hope & Help events will empower parents and youth to talk about suicide, depression in productive, meaningful ways and how to find resources."

During the Hope & Help events, panelists will give students the tools they need to navigate the things they see on social media and on television.

"It's pervasive. Youth may identify with characters they see in comics, on Netflix, or in other media," said Visiko. "It's important for them to know that there are healthy ways to cope. If they have watched something and need support, we want to encourage them to reach out and talk with a trusted adult."

Law enforcement, education professionals, behavioral health professionals, family survivors and advocacy members of our communities are aware of the suicide trends among our youth and share a deep concern about this trend.

"We as law enforcement realize we are the guardians of our communities," said Chief Porter. "As we move forward in the coming weeks and months, we will take great responsibility in making our communities safe and finding solutions to the problems that threaten the safety of our community."
If you or someone you know needs help immediately, you should take one of the following actions:

Call 9-1-1
Call the Lifeline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255)
Text '273TALK' to 839-863
Crisis line 541-322-7500, ext 9
Contact your school counseling center or other mental health professional
Crisis walk-in, 2577 NE Courtney, Bend, Monday - Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

###END###

Released by: Lt. Ty Rupert

Location: Old Bend Redmond Hwy and Jonathon Ct.

Vehicle 1: 2003 Mitsubishi Galant, black

Driver 1: Lewis Jr, John Jay Age: 26
Bend, Oregon

Citations: DUII

NARRATIVE:
On May 22, 2017 at approximately 0300 hours, deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to a rollover motor vehicle crash in the area of 64180 Old Bend Redmond Hwy.

Upon arrival deputies located the vehicle which was on its roof sitting on the northbound shoulder of the roadway. The driver, John Lewis Jr. was alone in the vehicle and had climbed from the vehicle and was standing on the shoulder of the roadway.

An investigation determined Lewis was northbound on Old Bend Redmond Hwy when he left his lane of travel driving approximately 50 yards on the northbound shoulder. Lewis sideswiped a juniper tree and then crashed head on into a rock embankment. The vehicle then flipped over and came to rest on its roof.

The investigation also revealed Lewis was impaired and was under the influence of intoxicants at the time of the crash. Lewis was en rout to his residence from the downtown Bend area at the time of the crash. Lewis was arrested and transported by the arresting deputy to St. Charles Medical Center in Bend for evaluation. Lewis was cited in lieu of custody and released at St. Charles Medical Center for 1 Count of DUII.

Old Bend Redmond Hwy was closed in both directions for approximately 40 minutes during this investigation.


Attached Media Files: Crash Photo

Released by: Lt. Chad Davis, desk 541-312-6023 email chadd@deschutes.org

Date/ Time of release: 5/19/17 at 3:15 p.m.


NARRATIVE:

On 5/19/17, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office began receiving reports of a two scams that are targeting citizens, trying to seek payment for fictitious fees.

One scam involves a male portraying himself as a member of the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office and making a claim that a person has a warrant out for their arrest for missing jury duty. The caller then advises the potential victim to purchase a pre-paid debit card and provide them with the numbers on the card in order to pay the bail on the warrant and avoid going to jail.

Unfortunately, some citizens have followed through with the caller's instructions and lost significant amounts of money by falling victim to this scam.

The other scam involves a person portraying themselves as Deschutes County District Attorney John Hummel. The suspect is contacting citizens and advises the citizen they need to pay fictitious fees in order to avoid going to jail. In one instance, the suspect said the citizen needed to pay a fee in regards to "Oregon's Bad Check Diversion Program."

The Sheriff's Office wants the public to know these are scams, and they should never send someone money without verifying the information they are being provided first. It is not common practice for the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office to advise a citizen they have a warrant over the phone. In most cases a citizen with a warrant will be contacted in person, and the Deputy will have proper credentials when serving the warrant.

Further, correspondence from the Deschutes County District Attorney's Office would come through the U.S. Mail and not over the phone.

These scams are currently being investigated by the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office. Anyone receiving phone calls similar to these in nature are asked to contact the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office at 541-693-6911 to report it.

By: Lt. Bryan Husband, Special Services Coordinator
Date: 05/18/17

Reporting Party: Graham Everitt, 64 yom, Monmouth, OR

Injured Subject: Ruth Everitt, 64 yof, Monmouth, OR

Narrative:

On 05/18/17, at approximately 3:45pm, 9-1-1 Dispatch received a call from Graham Everitt, reporting his wife, Ruth Everitt had just injured herself while they were hiking Wolf Creek Trail at Smith Rock State Park. Mrs. Everitt's injuries were not life threatening, but she was unable to hike out on her own.

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Deputies and Search and Rescue Volunteers, as well as Redmond Fire Department personnel were already in the area for a separate call for service (please refer to Redmond Fire Department's media release) and continued to assist the Everitt's. Fourteen DCSO SAR Volunteers, four DCSO Deputies and several personnel from Redmond Fire hiked into the Everitt's location, stabilized Mrs. Everitt and transported her back to the parking lot at Smith Rock State Park by wheeled litter (approximately 1.5 miles).

Mrs. Everitt refused any further treatment and chose to seek further medical assistance on her own with her husband.

Prepared by: Lieutenant M. Eggert

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is increasing traffic patrols during daylight hours for the purpose of enforcing seatbelt, child restraint, texting while driving and speed violations, for the period of May 20th 2017 through May 28th 2017. Deputies will be enforcing other traffic laws as well including Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants. These patrols will include the use of unmarked Sheriff's Office vehicles.

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office encourages all drivers and passengers to make a conscious effort to use their seatbelt at all times while travelling in a motor vehicle. Texting later while not operating a motor vehicle and driving the posted speed on the roadways traveled is also encouraged. We encourage all drivers to drink responsibly. If drivers intend to drink, please plan ahead and use a designated driver or public transportation.

The Business Email Compromise scam has been around for a few years, but as a new analysis from the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center shows -- it is a scam that has grown so large that it costs American companies hundreds of millions of dollars a year. Worldwide -- this scam racked up more than $5 billion in losses or attempted losses between October 2013 and December 2016.

There are a number of variations on how this scam works, but here are the basics:

The fraudster either spoofs an email account or is able to hack an account at a victim company. The fraudster then sends an invoice to a second company demanding payment. Both companies typically have a long-standing relationship, and that invoice doesn't look out-of-the ordinary. The fraudster arranges for the funds to be wired to an account he controls.

In a variation of this scam, the fraudster gets control of an email account belonging to an executive at the victim company -- a CEO, CFO or the like. Using that executive's persona, he sends a request to the finance department asking for a payment to be wired to another vendor immediately. The unsuspecting employee makes the transaction happen quickly to keep the boss happy. Regardless of how the scam plays out, the victim company suffers the loss.

Of particular concern in Oregon are the small and medium-sized businesses that are getting hit by this scam. Due to their size, they are often less likely to prepare for or recover from such a scam.

So what can businesses do? Here are a few options:

Require digitally-encrypted signatures by businesses on both ends of a transaction.

Require two-factor verification for money transfers, particularly big ones. For example -- you could require a telephone call to confirm significant wire transfers either within your company or between your company and a vendor. Be sure to set up this protocol early in the business relationship and outside the email environment. When the fraudster hacks your email account, you don't want him to be able to see how to evade your security protocols.

When confirming requests, don't rely on phone numbers or email addresses embedded in the request. Look up the number from an external source when calling.

For emails, make sure you "forward" your response as opposed to hitting "reply". That way, you are using a real -- not spoofed - email address by manually typing it in or accessing it from your existing contact list.

Train your employees to watch for suspicious requests -- such as change in a vendor's payment location.

If you suspect that a fraudster has victimized your company, it is important to act quickly. Contact your bank right away, and call your closest FBI office. Also, make sure you report the incident to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

You can also find more information and tips on how to protect yourself at www.ic3.gov or www.fbi.gov.


Attached Media Files: Tech Tuesday - Russian written , Tech Tuesday - Spanish written , Tech Tuesday - Russian audio file , Tech Tuesday - Spanish audio file , Tech Tuesday - English audio file

A fatal commercial motor vehicle crash occurred Tuesday morning on Interstate 5 near Rice Hill.
On May 23, 2017, at about 11:20 a.m., OSP troopers and emergency medical responders were dispatched to a commercial motor vehicle crash on Interstate 5 southbound near milepost 154.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a 1999 Peterbilt Semi-Truck and trailer loaded with lumber was southbound and for unknown reasons departed the roadway and onto the 154 Exit. The semi-truck continued south and went through the grass median and came back onto the 154 on ramp before leaving and impacting the dirt embankment on the west side of the freeway. The semi-truck and trailer came to an uncontrolled rest partially blocking the 154 on ramp.

The operator was pronounced deceased at the scene of the crash. The name of the operator is being withheld pending next of kin notification.

Troopers are continuing the investigation into the cause of the crash. The operator was wearing safety restraints at the time of crash. The 154 southbound exit and on ramp were closed for the duration of the investigation.

OSP was assisted at the scene by Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Oregon Department of Transportation and North Douglas Fire and EMS.


Attached Media Files: 2017-05/1002/104674/mp154.jpg

On May 23, 2017, at approximately 8:00am, the Oregon State Police responded to a 4 vehicle fatal crash on Hwy 99 and Paquet St. in Oregon City, Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation revealed that 2 passenger cars and a motorcycle were stopped due to heavy traffic. The fourth car, a 2009 Audi, approached the line of traffic, failing to see the traffic was stopped and rear-ended the motorcycle, killing the rider. The motorcycle was pushed into the car in front of it, causing a chain reaction.

The operator of the motorcycle was 56 year old, Johnnie O. BENNETT, of Oregon City. The operator of Audi, 40 year old Michelle Higgins, also of Oregon City was not injured. The operators of the other vehicles were not injured.

The Oregon State Police was assisted by Clackamas County Sheriff's office, Oregon City Police Department, Clackamas Fire District and the Oregon Department of Transportation. The investigation is on-going and no enforcement action has been taken at this time.


Attached Media Files: 2017-05/1002/104672/MC_F.jpg

Christopher TAVERNIER was lodged in jail.
End update

Previous Release:

On May 22, 2017, at approximately 6:00 PM, Oregon State Police troopers responded to a call of shots fired on Interstate 5 southbound, near Millersburg, in Linn County. Callers indicated a Jeep Wrangler and a Chevrolet Silverado were travelling south on Interstate 5 when they were involved in a road rage incident.

The Jeep Wrangler was operated by 43 year old, Christopher TAVERNIER, of Eugene. The Chevrolet Silverado was operated by 23 year old, Walter FENN II, of Albany. The passenger in the Chevrolet Silverado was the operator's father, 43 year old, Walter FENN, of Lebanon. At some point TAVERNIER pulled to the shoulder, exited his vehicle and fired a shot at the Chevrolet Silverado with a handgun. There were no injuries reported.

TAVERNIER left the scene and was located in a drive-thru of Starbucks in Albany where he was taken into custody without incident and a handgun was recovered from his vehicle. CHRISTOPHER TAVERNIER was lodged at the Linn County Jail on charges of Menacing and Harassment. The investigation is continuing. Any witnesses to the event on Interstate 5 are encouraged to contact Trooper Dakotah Keys at the Albany Area Command, (541)967-2026.

OSP was assisted by the Albany Police Department and the Linn County Sheriff's Office.

On May 21, 2017, at approximately 4:15pm, the Oregon State Police responded to the Mapleton Valley Fire Department after hearing on the radio of a woman being transported by a friend to the Fire Department with serious injuries. Medical personnel and OSP performed CPR on the female before she was transported to Peace Harbor Hospital, where she died of her injuries.

The preliminary investigation has determined that 26 year old, SARA M. SMITH, from Lane County, was riding an ATV by herself in the Deadwood area and for an unknown reason, crashed. The OSP is continuing the investigation to determine the cause and location of the crash.

The operator of the Nissan has been identified as, 60 year old, DELLA ANN SHAVER. She was an Elmira Resident. End Update

PREVIOUS RELEASE:

On Wednesday May 17, 2017 at about 1:20 pm, Troopers from the Springfield Area Command responded to a multi-vehicle crash on Highway 126W between Eugene and Veneta.

The ongoing investigation revealed that a white 2008 Dodge Ram 3500, operated by 78 year old Elmira local Larry Lay, was traveling westbound and for unknown reasons, traveled over into the oncoming lane, crashing head-on into an eastbound black 2011 Nissan Sentra. The driver of the Nissan died at the scene as a result of injuries sustained in the crash. Lay was transported to a Springfield area hospital for non-life threatening injuries. The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending the notification to the family. Information will be provided as it is available.

Troopers were assisted on scene by the Oregon Department of Transportation, Lane Fire Authority, Eugene/Springfield Fire, the Lane County District Attorney and Medical Examiners offices.


Attached Media Files: 2017-05/1002/104497/Photo.jpg

The Oregon State Police responded to a fatal crash on Hwy 99 and Paquet St. in Oregon City. There is no information available to release at this time. As soon as information is available, a detailed release will be provided.

On May 21, 2017, at about 5:37 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a report of a deceased male at the Milo McIver State Park.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a hiker was walking on the Dog Creek Trail in the Milo McIver State Park when they came across a deceased male, later identified as William W. KEMP, age 65, of Milwaukie. Initial indicators revealed that the cause of death may have been medically related.

OSP was assisted by Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, Clackamas County Medical Examiner's Office, Estacada Fire Department, and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

No further information will be released at this time and no photographs regarding this incident are available.

On May 19, 2017, at about 11:10 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on US-101 near milepost 17 (north of Gearhart).

Preliminary information indicates that a 2016 Toyota Corolla, operated by Wendi ROBINSON, age 42, of Warrenton, had been seen driving at high speeds heading south towards Seaside. A witness reported observing the Corolla lose traction and ultimately drive off the western edge of the roadway. The Corolla had overturned and came to rest, partially submerged in three feet of water. ROBINSON was extricated from the vehicle by first responders who arrived on the scene. CPR was attempted but ROBINSON was pronounced deceased at the scene.

One lane was closed for approximately three and a half hours following the crash, until both lanes were reopened.

OSP was assisted by Gearhart Fire Department, Gearhart Police Department, Clatsop County Sheriff's Office, Seaside Police Department and Medix. More information will be released when it becomes available.

On May 19, 2017, at about 11:41 a.m., a driving complaint was called into Washington County Sheriff's Office Dispatch regarding a green Toyota Rav4 that was driving erratically, traveling eastbound on Highway 6 near milepost 34. At about 11:47 a.m., while Washington County Sheriff Deputies were attempting to locate the vehicle, Washington County Sheriff's Office Dispatch received a report of a two-vehicle, head-on crash, on Highway 6 at mile post 37.5 involving the same green Toyota that was called in previously. OSP Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the crash scene (west of Banks).

Preliminary investigation revealed a 2008 Toyota Rav4, operated by David John WISE, age 80, of Rockaway, was traveling eastbound on Highway 6, when for unknown reasons he crossed into the oncoming westbound lane and crashed head-on into a 2006 Jayco Motorhome, operated by Marcus Reid HOLCOMB, age 46, of Scappoose. WISE was pronounced deceased at the scene and HOLCOMB was not injured.

Highway 6 was closed with one lane open intermittently for approximately three hours for the crash investigation. OSP was assisted at the scene by the Washington County Sheriff's Office, Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), Banks Fire Department, Forest Grove Fire Department and the Washington County Medical Examiner's Office.

More information will be released when it becomes available.


Attached Media Files: Photo1 , Photo2

The Oregon State Police is seeking the public's assistance in locating a missing adult female who was last seen in Williams, Oregon on March 2, 2017.

Kimberly Ann MERICLE, age 46, has an associated vehicle that is a burgundy Isuzu Rodeo, Oregon License Plate # 004 HSN. She is a white female, 5'3" tall, weighs 120 pounds, chin length brown hair and blue eyes.

If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of MERICLE, please contact:

Oregon State Police Detective Travis Lee at 541-618-7950 or the Southern Region Communications Center (Dispatch) at 541-776-6111


Attached Media Files: Bulletin , Photo

May 25, 2017- The Oregon State Police in partnership, the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children, the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office and the FBI's Missing Child Abduction Rapid Deployment Team (CARD) are hosting a Safe Kids event from 11:00 to 3:00 pm at the Capitol Mall Park in Salem, Oregon.

This event is happening on National Missing Children's day to help bring awareness to the over 450 missing children, who are currently missing from Oregon.

What: OSP's Safe Kids Event for National Missing Children's Day

When: Thursday, May 25, 2017 11:00 to 3:00 pm (Speakers begin at 11:00)

Where: Capitol Mall Park, just north of the Capitol Building, Salem

Speakers will be:
Oregon State Police Superintendent Travis Hampton
Dr. Nici Vance, Forensic Anthropologist
Multnomah County Sheriff's Office
Desiree Young (Kyron Horman's mother)
SSRA Kevin Damuth, FBI Missing Child Abduction Rapid Deployment Team

Booths:
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
Homeland Security Investigations
Oregon State Police's Criminal Division
Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office
Oregon State Police's Forensics Unit and Truck
Mountain Wave Search & Rescue


Attached Media Files: 2017-05/1002/104510/National_Missing_Childrens_Day_Event.JPG

The final version of the environmental impact statement for the Oregon National Guard Airspace Initiative was made publicly available, May 19, for a 30-day viewing period. The proposal is to establish and modify Military Training Airspace for the Oregon Air National Guard (ANG).

The proposed Oregon Airspace Initiative is to provide appropriately sized and configured airspace within close proximity to Oregon Air National Guard flying units to support advanced 21st century air-to-air tactical fighter technologies and training mission requirements.

The proposed action includes modification and addition to military training airspace located over northwestern, north-central and south-central Oregon and the Pacific Ocean. In addition, minor portions of the proposed action would be located above a small area of northwestern Nevada and the southwestern-most corner of Washington. It is important to note that this proposed action would result in airspace changes only and does not include any project components that would touch or otherwise directly affect the ground or water surface.

The Final EIS can be retrieved at:
www.142fw.ang.af.mil
www.173fw.ang.af.mil
or at any of the following libraries:
Astoria Public Library, Astoria Masonic Temple, Harney County Library, Crook County Library, Tillamook County Library.

Written comments on the Final EIS can be submitted to Mr. Kevin Marek, NGB/A7AM, Shepperd Hall, 3501 Fetchet Ave, Joint Base Andrews, MD 20762-5157, or by e-mail: usaf.jbanafw.ngb-a7.mbx.A7A-NEPA-COMMENTS@mail.mil. Please include "Oregon Airspace Initiative" in the subject line. In order to be considered, written comments must be received by June 19, 2017.


Attached Media Files: 2017-05/962/104664/142FW_and_173FW_F-15_flight.jpg

SALEM, Oregon -- The Oregon National Guard honored all military members in an Armed Forces Day commemoration, May 18, at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Oregon. In addition to honoring all military members, the event also honored Vietnam veterans to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.

Photo Captions:
170518-Z-YP317-070: The Oregon National Guard celebrates Armed Forces Day with a Howitzer salute and a two-aircraft F-15 flyover at the State Capital Mall on Thursday, May 18, in Salem, Oregon. Armed Forces Day was originally created in 1949 to honor Americans serving in all branches of the U.S. military, and was designated as an official holiday in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy. (Photo by Christopher L. Ingersoll, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

170518-Z-YP317-058: The Oregon National Guard celebrates Armed Forces Day with a Howitzer salute at the State Capital Mall on Thursday, May 18, in Salem, Oregon. Armed Forces Day was originally created in 1949 to honor Americans serving in all branches of the U.S. military, and was designated as an official holiday in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy. (Photo by Christopher L. Ingersoll, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

170518-Z-YP317-037: Maj. Gen. Michael E. Stencel, Adjutant General, Oregon, delivers remarks to the audience in attendance at the Armed Forces Day celebration at the State Capital Mall on Thursday, May 18, in Salem, Oregon. Armed Forces Day was originally created in 1949 to honor Americans serving in all branches of the U.S. military, and was designated as an official holiday in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy. (Photo by Christopher L. Ingersoll, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

170518-Z-YP317-030: Governor Kate Brown offers her thanks to the veterans of Oregon at a ceremony to honor Armed Forces Day at the State Capital Mall on Thursday, May 18, in Salem, Oregon. Armed Forces Day was originally created in 1949 to honor Americans serving in all branches of the U.S. military, and was designated as an official holiday in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy. (Photo by Christopher L. Ingersoll, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

170518-Z-YP317-006: Children flocked to the Oregon National Guard military equipment displays during Armed Forces Day at the State Capital Mall on Thursday, May 18, in Salem, Oregon. Armed Forces Day was originally created in 1949 to honor Americans serving in all branches of the U.S. military, and was designated as an official holiday in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy. (Photo by Christopher L. Ingersoll, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)


Attached Media Files: 2017-05/962/104526/170518-Z-YP317-070.JPG , 2017-05/962/104526/170518-Z-YP317-058.JPG , 2017-05/962/104526/170518-Z-YP317-037.JPG , 2017-05/962/104526/170518-Z-YP317-030.JPG , 2017-05/962/104526/170518-Z-YP317-006.jpg

PR 07-17
BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, May 18, 2017
CONTACT: Kevin Wingert, 503-230-4140 or 503-230-5131

BPA will not build I-5 Corridor Reinforcement Project

'We are transforming how we plan for and manage our transmission system and commercial business practices regionwide'

Portland, Ore. -- The Bonneville Power Administration will not build the I-5 Corridor Reinforcement Project, a proposed 80-mile, 500-kilovolt transmission line that would have stretched from Castle Rock, Washington, to Troutdale, Oregon.

The decision, announced today by Administrator Elliot Mainzer, caps a comprehensive public process and reflects BPA's commitment to taking a more flexible, scalable, and economically and operationally efficient approach to managing its transmission system. The project, first announced in 2009, sought to address a reliability issue along a transmission corridor in southwest Washington and northwest Oregon that could lead to power outages.

Following a final environmental impact statement that was released in February of 2016, Mainzer promised the region that BPA would conduct additional analyses. BPA began an extensive review of financial forecasts, planning assumptions and commercial practices. It combined those results with findings of regional utilities and independent industry experts to address the underlying issue -- managing congestion along the I-5 corridor while maintaining the potential for economic growth. Through this process, Bonneville determined it could meet its obligations to provide reliable, robust transmission service with a more innovative, flexible approach.

"Given the extensive work we've done in the past 15 months with regional partners and others, we are now confident that we can continue to meet the demands on the grid without building this 80-mile line in southwest Washington," Mainzer said. "We will always make safe and reliable transmission service a priority. We also recognize a growing need to be flexible and agile in our business practices to create the greatest value to electricity ratepayers in the Northwest."

The decision provides certainty for the more than 300 homeowners and landowners with property along the preferred route identified in the final EIS, and thousands of others who lived near other route alternatives.

"We are very thankful to the stakeholders and the public who actively engaged in this effort, and we appreciate their patience as we continued to look for how we could make the right investment at the right time under constantly evolving market conditions," Mainzer said. "The scope, impact and increasing budget for this project became the catalyst for pushing us to reconsider our existing analytical processes, our commercial business practices and our implementation of federal reliability standards. The outcome is much bigger than a decision to build or not build this line: We are transforming how we plan for and manage our transmission system and commercial business practices regionwide."

For example, in reviewing its project assumptions with regional utilities, BPA identified that it used a conservative approach to risk that went beyond industry standards. By modernizing its approach to develop better real-time visibility of the transmission system coupled with new tools to manage congestion during peak times, BPA may find additional transmission capacity that can be released for operational use or for sale.

Moving forward, BPA is identifying upgrades to existing transmission infrastructure and new business and commercial practices that will preserve the value of the system and meet customer demands. A technical conference will be convened within a month to discuss with our customers our new approach to managing congestion on our transmission grid.

Additionally, in the coming weeks, BPA will begin implementing a two-year pilot project that will provide targeted transmission congestion relief in the greater Portland-Vancouver area during peak periods of electric use in the summer. The pilot project should result in over 100 megawatts of flow relief along the most congested portion of the transmission corridor for four-hour blocks. This "non-wires" pilot is just one of many ideas Bonneville is initiating as part of its transformational approach to meeting customer needs.

ADDITIONAL REGIONAL PERSPECTIVES

U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler: "I commend BPA for listening to and working with Southwest Washington landowners, concerned citizens, community groups and municipalities throughout this process to assess our region's energy needs and determine the best way to meet them.

"Frankly, BPA's willingness to reverse course on the planned 500-kilovolt lattice-steel-tower transmission line that would have bisected our communities is somewhat unprecedented. It should serve as a model for other public entities who need to be willing to constantly reassess their decisions to make sure the community is at the center of them. I applaud their decision and the process they used to get to this point.

"BPA has assured me that it's committed to meeting the present and future energy needs of our region through careful planning, system changes and innovation, and I stand ready to help meet those needs however I can. BPA's work in providing carbonless energy to meet the needs of our community is vital."

"BPA has assured me that it's committed to meeting the present and future energy needs of our region through careful planning, system changes and innovation, and I stand ready to help meet those needs however I can. BPA's work in providing carbonless energy to meet the needs of our community is vital."


Roger Gray, CEO, Northwest Requirements Utilities: "BPA has made a very difficult decision on the I-5 project. Adequate and reliable transmission is critical to customers, but so are affordable rates. Given the financial pressures BPA faces, I understand and support this decision. BPA's customers will need to work with BPA to find alternative solutions such as the non-wires options already being explored by BPA. This will require innovative and creative thinking on the part of BPA and customers to find economic solutions to ensure reliability and affordability."


Beth Looney, president and CEO, PNGC Power: "PNGC Power appreciates the complexity of the I-5 Corridor Reinforcement Project decision. Ensuring future economic growth and access to low-cost power resources are important to PNGC. We trust the administrator's transmission plan will achieve these objectives. As demand for electricity grows, we look forward to partnering with BPA to find the most cost-effective and efficient transmission solutions."


Scott Corwin, executive director, Public Power Council: "This was a huge undertaking for BPA with implications for utilities throughout the Northwest. We appreciate that BPA dug in and conducted a thorough review of cost-effective solutions. We look forward to working with Bonneville to ensure that new solutions meet BPA's obligations to reliably deliver electricity to its core customers."


About BPA
The Bonneville Power Administration, headquartered in Portland, Ore., is a nonprofit federal power marketer that sells wholesale electricity from 31 federal dams and one nuclear plant to 142 Northwest electric utilities, serving millions of consumers and businesses in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, western Montana and parts of California, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming. BPA delivers power via more than 15,000 circuit miles of lines and 261 substations to 475 transmission customers. In all, BPA markets about a third of the electricity consumed in the Northwest and operates three-quarters of the region's high-voltage transmission grid. BPA also funds one of the largest fish and wildlife programs in the world, and, with its partners, pursues cost-effective energy savings and operational solutions that help maintain affordable, reliable and carbon-free electric power for the Northwest. www.bpa.gov
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Attached Media Files: : BPA Administrator Elliot Mainzer signs a letter to the region explaining his decision to not build the I-5 Corridor Reinforcement Project and to focus BPA, instead, on embracing the modern tools of the modern energy economy to maximize the value of fede

Portland, Ore. -- The Bonneville Power Administration and other industry leaders invite you to the Oregon Tradeswomen's 25th annual Women in Trades Career Fair.

This high-energy event, with lots of outdoor activities, offers girls and women the chance to learn about career opportunities and apprenticeships in various trades. Visitors will get a taste of possible careers through interactive demonstrations and conversations with women who actually work in trades every day.

The fair will be held May 19-20 at the NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center located at 16021 NE Airport Way, Portland, Oregon. The fair runs from 9 am to 3 pm both days.

This year's event offers two ways to engage. Friday, May 19, is Girls School Day where students discover new career opportunities. Saturday, May 20, is Careers for Women Day. This event is aimed at adults who want to explore possible trade careers.

"The Women in Trades Career Fair gives us the chance to reach out to our future workforce and promote BPA and the Department of Energy as employers of choice," said Janet Herrin, BPA's chief operating officer. "In addition, this fabulous program demonstrates DOE's commitment to a diverse and inclusive work environment."

Tradeswomen at the fair will demonstrate the skills they use every day such as surveying, welding, security, electrical wiring and carpentry. Workshops and seminars on apprenticeships, recruitment and utility businesses will also be available.

The Women in Trades Career Fair is organized by Oregon Tradeswomen, Inc. and made possible through financial and volunteer support by other regional organizations, including BPA.

For more information visit the Women in Trades Career Fair website, or contact Mary Ann Naylor of Oregon Tradeswomen, Inc. at 503-335-8200 Ext. 26 (office) or 503-819-9201 (mobile).

WASHINGTON -- On Tuesday, May 23, 2018, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke will provide an overview of President Donald Trump's proposed Fiscal Year 2018 budget for the Department of the Interior during a conference call with members of the news media.
Interior's Budget in Brief book will be online by 1:30 p.m. EST.

Who: Ryan Zinke, U.S. Secretary of the Interior

What: News media conference call on the Interior Department's FY 2018 budget

When: Tuesday, May 23, 2017 at 12:30 p.m. EST

Media: Credentialed members of the news media wishing to join the teleconference must RSVP with the journalist's name and contact information to interior_press@ios.doi.gov to receive the call-in information.

Salem, Oregon -- Celebrating the uplifting power of art and its value to Oregonians' quality of life, Governor Kate Brown today announced she is reinstating the Governor's Arts Awards in honor of the Oregon Arts Commission's 50th Anniversary. Established in 1977, the once-annual awards have been on hiatus since 2007. A call for nominations is now posted on the Arts Commission website: http://www.oregonartscommission.org/

A partnership between the Office of the Governor and the Arts Commission, the Governor's Arts Awards recognize and honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the arts in Oregon. Awardees will be announced during the Governor's Arts Awards ceremony from 8 to 9 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 6, at the Portland Hilton Downtown.

"Art is a fundamental ingredient of any thriving and vibrant community," Governor Brown said. "Art sparks connections between people, movements, and new ideas. To put it simply, art makes life better. I am thrilled to celebrate Oregon's best artists and art supporters through the Governor's Arts Awards."

The Governor's Arts Awards are open to any individual, organization or community that currently resides in or has a significant presence in Oregon and has made outstanding contributions to the arts in the state. The 143 past recipients of a Governor's Arts Award are not eligible. (View past awardees: http://www.oregonartscommission.org/programs/governors-arts-awards)

"The Governor's Arts Award is the most prestigious honor an Oregon artist can receive," said Arts Commission Chair Libby Unthank Tower. "We are extremely grateful to Governor Brown for restoring the Awards so that we can once again formally recognize the contribution of Oregon artists and arts supporters to our collective quality of life."

Nominations will be reviewed by a committee comprised of a representative from the Governor's Office, an Arts Commissioner and three to five arts leaders from across the state. They will recommend three to five awards based on the nominee's regional, national or international recognition for his/her/their contributions; role in improving the quality of arts experiences and appreciation for the arts in Oregon; contributions to advancing the arts' positive impact on Oregonians' quality of life; and length of service to the arts in Oregon. Governor Brown will have final approval of award recipients.

Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, June 30. Recipients will be notified by July 28 and must be available to attend the Oct. 6 award ceremony.

VIDEO OF GOVERNOR'S ARTS AWARDS ANNOUNCEMENT: https://drive.google.com/open?id=0BzMvBq_LbaUUQ1BWeW52d3hOSDA

? ? ? ? ?
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 the Oregon Business Development Department in 1993 in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities.
The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon legislature, federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts and funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust.

? 30 ?

Please join us tomorrow, Tuesday, May 23 for a DHS stakeholder/partner meeting and conference call about upcoming legislative and budget issues.

Join in person, by phone or follow along on Facebook or Twitter.
When: Tuesday, May 23, 2017, 2:00-3:30 p.m.
Where: Barbara Roberts Human Services Building, Room 137,
500 Summer Street NE, Salem
How: Conference call 1-877-336-1829; Participant Code: 8307334

Join us on social media:
Live streaming during the event:
Twitter: @OregonDHSAPD
Facebook: @OregonDHS.SSP

Join the conversation on Twitter using #ORDHSforum.


DHS Stakeholder & Partner Meeting Agenda

I. Welcome, Introductions, Budget/Legislative Information
Clyde Saiki, DHS Director

II. Brief updates from Program Directors
Ashley Carson Cottingham -- Aging and People with Disabilities
Laurie Price -- Child Welfare
Lilia Teninty-- Office of Developmental Disability
Kim Fredlund -- Self-Sufficiency Programs
Trina Lee -- Vocational Rehabilitation

III. Open Q & A

The Oregon Home Care Commission (OHCC) will meet on Thursday, June 1, 2017, at 10 a.m., at 676 Church Street NE, Salem.

The agenda includes public testimony; Workforce Strategic (draft) plan and an Advocacy & Development Unit update. There will be a working lunch during the budget update; a report from the Executive Director; OHCC legislative committee bill reports; quarterly DHS Office of Developmental Disabilities Services (ODDS) update; reports from the Governor's Commission on Senior Services, Oregon Disabilities Commission, DHS Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) program, Oregon Self Advocacy Coalition (OSAC), community advisory councils and coordinated care organizations.

There will be a short break, followed by an Executive Session, which is closed to members of the general public. In accordance with ORS 192.660(1)(d), OHCC will hold an Executive Session for the purpose of discussing labor negotiations with the governing body's representative.

After the Executive Session, OHCC staff will be available for Q&A about staff reports: bi-monthly STEPS, monthly OmbudsAdvisory Council, monthly Traditional Health Worker Commission and monthly Training/Registry.

A call-in number is available for those unable to attend in person: 1-888-278-0296, access code 7999724#.

OHCC meets on the first Thursday of every month and is open to the public.

The Oregon Home Care Commission welcomes visitors to its meetings. People who need any type of accommodation due to a disability should contact Joanna Gould at 503-378-4984 or joanna.m.gould@state.or.us 48 hours prior to the meeting.

About the Oregon Home Care Commission (OHCC):
OHCC ensures high-quality homecare services for seniors and people with physical, intellectual/developmental and mental health disabilities. The Commission defines qualifications, manages a statewide registry and trains homecare workers (HCWs) and personal support workers (PSWs). OHCC serves as the employer of record for purposes of collective bargaining for HCWs and PSWs receiving service payments from public funds.

Learn more about OHCC at www.oregon.gov/dhs/seniors-disabilities/hc and
"Like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OregonHomeCareCommission.

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Statement from DHS Director Clyde Saiki:

When the Governor asked me to serve as the Director of DHS, she made it very clear that my top priority is the safety of children entrusted to our care. Improving Child Welfare has been an ongoing challenge for DHS, and today I am announcing a change in leadership in the DHS Child Welfare Program.

Child Welfare Director Lena Alhusseini has submitted her resignation, and I have appointed Deputy Director, Laurie Price, as the interim Director, effective today. We will also begin the process of recruiting for a permanent Child Welfare Director.

Lena accepted a difficult job at a very difficult time, and I want to thank her for her willingness to take on that challenge. She will continue with the agency until September 1, leading the strategic initiative on diversity recruitment in the DHS Office of Human Resources. I respect Lena's vision for child welfare -- a framework of community engagement and support -- and that essential work will continue. However, Lena and I agree that we have not been able to get the results we need to achieve.

Moving forward, our focus must be on the basics: correctly screening reports of abuse and neglect, conducting effective child protective service assessments, making safe and appropriate placements of foster children and youth, and ensuring ongoing oversight and support in family foster care and residential placements. In addition, we must continue our efforts toward the culture change needed to put children's safety at the center of every decision and action.

Lena joined DHS from Brooklyn, New York, where she served as the Executive Director of the Arab-American Family Support Center. She brings nearly 20 years of leadership experience in areas of international development, child protection services, social services and behavioral health, human rights, and community development. She previously served with global organizations such as USAID, UNICEF and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. She also established the first child protection center in the Middle East to address the issue of child abuse. In 2011, President Obama honored her as a White House Champion of Change for her work with child protection, domestic violence and sex trafficking. She has a Master's in Public Administration (NYU) and an MSc degree in Information Technology Engineering.

Aging & People with Disabilities and the Oregon Home Care Commission have launched a new website so that individuals seeking to join the homecare workforce can easily find and register to attend a "New Worker Orientation" in their local community.

One of the strategic goals of the Oregon Home Care Commission is to attract a committed and diverse homecare workforce to meet the specific needs of Oregonians who are older adults and people with disabilities.

Homecare workers provide in-home services for consumers who are eligible for publicly funded in-home programs. Individuals desiring to join this workforce should have the following skills and abilities: excellent communication; attention to detail; flexibility; problem-solving; and the ability to follow directions. They should also exhibit respect for others and have a passion for helping people.

The benefits of joining the homecare workforce include: paid time off; health insurance; workers' compensation; paid trainings; and opportunities for career advancement.

To find and register for a New Worker Orientation near you click on this link: http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/SENIORS-DISABILITIES/HCC/PSW-HCW/Pages/HCW-Orientation.aspx

The Oregon Home Care Commission is responsible for ensuring the quality of home care services that are funded by the Department of Human Services Aging& People with Disabilities program. The Commission's duties and responsibilities include addressing the needs of persons with developmental disabilities, mental illnesses, their family members, and personal support workers while fulfilling its mission. To learn more about the Oregon Home Care Commission: http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/SENIORS-DISABILITIES/HCC/Pages/index.aspx

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Attached Media Files: Homecare Worker Career Flyer

Note: The following is a special Memorial Day message from Cameron Smith, director of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs.

Memorial Day is a holiday rooted in tradition. Every year, thousands of Oregonians participate in ceremonies, parades and other solemn events. But long before the first Memorial Day processions wound their way down city streets, long before dignitaries across the country took to podiums to honor service and sacrifice, the holiday started, informally, with a much simpler tradition: the laying of flowers upon the grave of a fallen service member.

It was in the wake of the American Civil War that communities began the practice of decorating soldiers' graves with flowers. This military family and community tradition was later formalized as a national day of honor in Decoration Day, and what we now call Memorial Day.

In 1866, no family or community was untouched by the Civil War. America's bloodiest conflict resulted in over 1 million casualties and claimed over 620,000 lives. The impacts of the war were intensely and personally felt across the nation.

Today, over 320,000 veterans call Oregon home. We are a strong and diverse community, spanning four generations across five major wars. With every veteran counted, we must also recognize the sacrifice of their spouses and families, who served on the home front while their loved ones were in uniform.

At the same time, we must acknowledge that today's battles are fought by less than 1 percent of our population. The weight of the most recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan has been borne by the few. Most of our citizens today have not been directly impacted by war. The same cannot be said for our Gold Star families, who have lost a loved one in service to our nation.

We can never forget the true cost of war -- a cost far beyond dollars and cents. A hundred years ago, in World War I, we lost over 115,000 dedicated service members -- almost 1,000 of whom were from Oregon. Those who survived the battlefields in Europe did not come home to a robust system of veterans' health care and benefits. But they banded together in service organizations and fought to advocate for the nationwide network of support we have today.

Across the ages, from the beaches of Normandy and the Pacific islands to the mountains and jungles in Asia, countless Americans have stood up to serve and have laid down their lives. At the most basic level, they fought to protect the one on their right and the one on their left, but ultimately their fight protects us all and preserves the values we hold dear.

This Memorial Day, as we kick off the start of summer and turn to enjoy Oregon's incredible parks, beaches, rivers and mountains, we must encourage all citizens to pause and honor our fallen and Gold Star families. We stand on the shoulders of all those who came before us and will never forget our veterans' service, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Thank you for your support of Oregon's military, veterans and their families!

Cameron Smith served three tours in Iraq as a Marine and is the director of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs.


Attached Media Files: Cameron Smith

Want to know what Memorial Day events are being held in your area? There's a good chance you can find out online, in the directory of Memorial Day ceremonies, parades and other special events that the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs maintains at www.oregondva.com/2017memorialday.

The directory includes an interactive map as well as detailed information about each event. If you don't see your event listed, it's not too late to share! Please visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/eventsubmissions and complete the brief questionnaire. Contact the ODVA communications team with any questions at 503-373-2389.

ODVA's annual Statewide Memorial Day Celebration will take place at 2 p.m., May 29, at the Afghan-Iraqi Freedom Memorial in Salem. The memorial, which is dedicated to the men and women who died while serving in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, is located near ODVA's offices at 700 Summer St. N.E.

The program will include a color guard presentation by Western Oregon University's Army ROTC cadets, singing of the national anthem, the playing of "Taps" and a reading of the 142 names of the Oregonians killed in Iraq and Aghanistan, which are inscribed on a granite wall at the memorial.

A keynote address will be given by Wendall Pelham, whose son, Army Spc. John Pelham, was killed on Feb. 12, 2014, while serving during Operation Enduring Freedom. At this time, Spc. Pelham was the last Oregonian killed in action in either Iraq or Afghanistan.

In recognition of the 100th anniversary this year of the United States' entry into World War I, speakers will wear poppies and the poem "In Flanders Field" will be read by retired Air Force Maj. Hank Lutz, a great-grandson of WWI hero and Medal of Honor recipient Edward C. Allworth.

SALEM, Ore. -- Starting with a public meeting in Salem on Wednesday, May 24, a broad-based committee put together by the Oregon Department of Forestry and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality will review management practices for controlled burning on forestland. The committee is charged with recommending improvements for how the state can utilize controlled burns to meet land management objectives on private and public forestland in Oregon while minimizing smoke impacts on communities and protecting public health.

The public is invited to attend the meeting, which will be in the Tillamook Room in Building C at ODF's Salem headquarters, 2600 State St. The meeting lasts from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The meeting space is accessible to persons with disabilities. 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 Chrystal Bader at 503-945-7220.

The committee will hear presentations on air quality and human health, as well as the benefits of controlled burns to forest health, productivity and reducing wildfire risk. There will be time for public comments in the afternoon.

The 20-person committee is made up of forest landowners, public health representatives, the American Lung Association, forest collaboratives and environmentalist groups, county and city elected officials, the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and a tribal representative.

The committee is seeking to produce a set of recommendations for the departments of Forestry and Environmental Quality to consider. The committee's work will be presented to the Board of Forestry (BOF) and the Environmental Quality Commission (EQC) in late 2017. Committee recommendations will also inform potential updates to the state's Smoke Management Plan. That plan is administered by ODF and approved by BOF and the EQC. The Smoke Management Plan becomes part of the state's plan for implementing the federal Clean Air Act.

"In central Oregon the committee will see how managed fire is used to thin brush and reduce the risk of big wildfires," said ODF Smoke Management Meteorology Manager Nick Yonker. "Controlled burns are timed to when weather conditions can quickly disperse the smoke to protect air quality."

According to ODF records, last year controlled fires were set on 181,800 forested acres in Oregon, above the 10-year annual average of 165,999 acres. Those fires burned an estimated 1.3 million tons of woody debris. Peak burning is in the spring and fall.

Yonker said the committee will hold monthly meetings around the state through September. The committee's second meeting will be on June 27. At that time, members will visit the Deschutes National Forest in central Oregon.
# # #

May 23, 2017

Subhed: New 'beach action values' mean state is likely to see more health advisories

As temperatures rise in advance of the Memorial Day weekend, the Oregon Health Authority is launching its 2017 beach monitoring season to keep people informed about bacteria levels along the coast that may pose a health risk.

The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program, based at the OHA Public Health Division, began its annual, regular evaluation of bacteria levels at beaches up and down the Oregon Coast, from Seaside to Brookings, May 22. Each year's monitoring period extends through Labor Day weekend.

The 18 beaches that will be monitored in 2017 include:
-- Seaside Beach, Cannon Beach, Tolovana State Park Beach, Clatsop County
-- Short Sand State Park Beach, Rockaway Beach, Twins Rocks Beach, Neskowin State Park Beach, Tillamook County
-- D River State Park Beach, Beverly Beach, Agate State Park Beach, Nye Beach, Seal Rock State Park Beach, Lincoln County
-- Heceta Beach, Lane County
-- Bastendorff Beach, Sunset Bay State Park Beach, Coos County
-- Hubbard Creek Beach, Harris Beach State Park, Crissey Field State Park, Curry County

Beaches will be monitored for beach action values, or BAVs, the marine recreational water quality standard used to determine if bacteria levels are unsafe for water contact. When a single marine water sample has bacteria levels at or above the BAV, a health advisory is issued. Once a health advisory is issued, people are asked to avoid water contact until the health advisory is lifted.

Since 2003 OHA has used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. State organizations participating in this program are the Oregon Health Authority, Department of Environmental Quality, and Parks and Recreation Department.

The state expects to see more beach advisories than in previous years because new BAVs are being used in 2017. In 2014 the Environmental Protection Agency updated its national beach guidance and required performance criteria for grants. EPA studies found that recreating in water with bacteria levels below the previous BAV of 158 colony-forming units per 100 milliliters of water (cfu/100mL) poses a health risk. EPA now requires states that receive funding for beach monitoring to adopt a new BAV that is more protective of the public's health. The updated guidance provides safer standards for recreational waters across the U.S. and will help focus resources on the highest priority beaches.

OBMP will apply a BAV of 130 cfu/100mL for the 2017 monitoring season.

OBMP initially set a new BAV of 70 cfu/100mL for 2017, and shared it with partners, stakeholders and the public last year. But the program proposed an alternative of 130 cfu/100mL to EPA for a number of reasons: summer coastal water temperatures on the Oregon Coast are colder than those found in locations studied by EPA, which limits the amount of time the most vulnerable population--children--are likely to spend time in the water; fecal bacteria concentrations in coastal waters are highly variable, which makes water quality predictions difficult; and a 70 cfu/100mL BAV would double the number of beach advisories, stretching program resources and requiring reductions in activities, such as monitoring frequency, the number of monitoring stations and efforts to find contamination sources.

"We are confident the new BAV strikes the right balance of health protection based on how Oregonians and visitors use our beaches," said Curtis Cude, manager of the Public Health Division's environmental public health surveillance program, which administers the OBMP.

Beach advisories will be publicized in OHA news releases throughout the 2017 season and will be posted at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach. To view a video about the 2017 beach monitoring season, visit https://youtu.be/NLgR9N3WChY.

# # #

Links to beach maps

-- Seaside Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/seasidebeach.pdf

-- Cannon Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/cannonbeach.pdf

-- Tolovana State Park Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/tolovanabeach.pdf

-- Short Sand State Park Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/shortsandbeach.pdf

-- Rockaway Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/shortsandbeach.pdf

-- Twin Rocks Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/twinrocks.pdf

-- Neskowin State Park Beach: https://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/OBMP%20Neskowin%20Beach%20sites%20without%20north%20site%2032132%202017.png

-- D River State Park Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/driver.pdf

-- Beverly Beach: https://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/OBMP%20Beverly%20Beach%20sites%202017.png

-- Agate State Park Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/agatebeach.pdf

-- Nye Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/nyebeach.pdf

-- Seal Rock State Park Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/sealrock.pdf

-- Heceta Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/hecetabeach.pdf

-- Bastendorff Beach: https://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/OBMP%20Bastendorff%20Beach.png

-- Sunset Bay State Park Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/sunsetbaybeach.pdf

-- Hubbard Creek Beach: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/hubbardcreekbeach.pdf

-- Harris Beach State Park: http://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/harrisbeach.pdf

-- Crissey Field State Park: https://public.health.oregon.gov/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/BeachWaterQuality/Documents/2015Maps/OBMP%20Crissey%20Field%20SP%20sites%202017.png

May 19, 2017

Oregon Governor Kate Brown Celebrates 20 Years of Tobacco Prevention Successes in Lane County

OHA announces state tobacco prevention strategies during celebration at Cottage Grove High School

COTTAGE GROVE, Ore.----Oregon Governor Kate Brown and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) held a celebration this afternoon in Cottage Grove to mark 20 years of tobacco prevention successes in Lane County. Cottage Grove and Lane County were recognized for serving as a leader in tobacco prevention for the rest of the state. In March, Lane County became the first county in Oregon to pass a bill increasing the legal age to purchase tobacco products to 21.

OHA also announced their state tobacco prevention strategies moving forward, which will focus on raising the price of tobacco, protecting the Indoor Clean Air Act (ICAA), and protecting kids from tobacco.

The event, held at Cottage Grove High School, specifically celebrated Oregonians' decision in 1996 to pass a ballot measure that increased the price of tobacco and dedicated a portion of tobacco tax sales revenue to prevention efforts.

These public health initiatives, backed by Oregon voters, aim to keep kids and young people from starting to use tobacco, and to helping tobacco users quit. Since 1997, per capita cigarette pack sales have declined by more than 55 percent.

Governor Brown thanked legislative champions and partners for their hard work over the years to keep Oregonians, particularly youth and young adults, safe from the harms of tobacco. She also presented an award to Oregon high school students who are members of the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) for their work to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco to Oregon youth. The award, a Douglas Fir tree to be planted at Cottage Grove High School, symbolizes every Oregonian's right to breathe clean air free from dangerous tobacco smoke.

"I'm thrilled to be here today to celebrate 20 years of tobacco prevention in Oregon," Governor Kate Brown said. "TPEP has supported critical community-driven programs that have helped build healthier communities across the state. Lane County has been pivotal in leading the way for our state in this effort. These programs are proof that when we work together, we can find solutions to create a healthier, more prosperous Oregon."

Oregon has been a longtime leader in tobacco prevention. In 1998, Oregon launched the Tobacco Quit Line, the first state to offer over-the-phone help to tobacco users who want to quit, and in 2007, the state passed the ICAA, a smokefree workplace law that included bars, taverns, restaurants, bingo halls and bowling centers. In addition to the passage of Tobacco 21 in Lane County, other more recent statewide successes include Oregon passing a law making it illegal to smoke in a car with a minor present, and Oregon state parks going smokefree in 2014.

"We've come a long way in two decades and consider these accomplishments a major win for public health in Oregon----but there's still work to be done," said Oregon Health Authority Public Health Director Lillian Shirley. "Tobacco is still the number one preventable cause of death and disease in Oregon, responsible for more than 7,000 deaths each year."

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May 18, 2017

Julie Johnson is the Oregon Health Authority's Director of Tribal Affairs, serving as a liaison for tribes and a senior advisor to OHA Director Lynne Saxton.

"I am excited Julie is stepping into this role and bringing her 20 years of experience working with our tribes to improve the health of all Oregonians," said Director Saxton.

Julie has been the interim Director of Tribal Affairs for six months.
She is an enrolled member of the Ft. McDermitt Paiute-Shoshone Tribes. Her husband and four daughters are enrolled members of the Burns Paiute Tribe. A native of Oregon, Julie has worked with tribal people for two decades. At OHA, she has served as a Tribal Liaison for three years, working in Substance Abuse Prevention, Addictions and Mental Health, and Health Promotion. She lived and worked on the Burns Paiute Reservation for 13 years, working to build a healthier community, and she also worked for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs as a Head Start Teacher for five years.

"I am greatly honored and truly blessed to serve the tribal people of Oregon and the Oregon Health Authority in this capacity," Johnson said. "I am committed to the continued efforts of honoring our government to government relationships and improving health services to our Native people."


Attached Media Files: 2017-05/3687/104532/JJohnson.jpg

May 18, 2017

Media Contact:
Tony Andersen, 971-239-6483, Tony.A.Andersen@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon Governor Kate Brown and Community Partners Celebrate 20 Years of State Tobacco Prevention Achievements at Salem Event

SALEM, Ore.----Oregon Governor Kate Brown and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) held a news conference and celebration this morning in Salem to mark 20 years of tobacco prevention successes in Oregon. OHA also announced their state tobacco prevention strategies moving forward, which will focus on raising the price of tobacco, protecting the Indoor Clean Air Act (ICAA), and protecting kids from tobacco.

The event specifically celebrated Oregonians' decision in 1996 to pass a ballot measure that increased the price of tobacco and dedicated a portion of tobacco tax sales revenue to prevention efforts.

These public health initiatives, backed by Oregon voters, aim to keep kids and young people from starting to use tobacco, and to helping tobacco users quit. Since 1997, per capita cigarette pack sales have declined by more than 55 percent.

Governor Brown thanked legislative champions and partners for their hard work over the years to keep Oregonians, particularly youth and young adults, safe from the harms of tobacco. She also presented an award to Oregon high school students who are members of Rebels for a Cause, a student led group from Washington County, for their work to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco to Oregon youth. The award, a Douglas Fir tree to be planted at their high school, symbolizes every Oregonian's right to breathe clean air free from dangerous tobacco smoke.

"I'm so thrilled to be here today to celebrate 20 years of tobacco prevention in Oregon," Governor Kate Brown said. "TPEP has supported critical community-driven programs that have helped build healthier communities across the state. These programs are proof that when we work together, we can find solutions to create a healthier, more prosperous Oregon."

Oregon has been a longtime leader in tobacco prevention. In 1998, Oregon launched the Tobacco Quit Line, the first state to offer over-the-phone help to tobacco users who want to quit, and in 2007, the state passed the ICAA, a smokefree workplace law that included bars, taverns, restaurants, bingo halls and bowling centers. In more recent years, Oregon state parks became smokefree in 2014, and just this spring, Lane County passed Tobacco 21, increasing the legal age to purchase tobacco products to 21.

"Big tobacco companies continue to target our kids and minority groups through aggressive marketing tactics, including flavored products and colorful packaging," said Paula Jacobs, instructor with Beaverton School District Health Careers Program and advisor to Rebels for a Cause, a group of 65 high school students focused on youth tobacco prevention in Washington County. "We must work together to keep our kids and communities safe from the dangers of tobacco."

"We've come a long way in twenty years, but there's still work to be done," said Oregon Health Authority Director Lynne Saxton. "Tobacco is still the number one preventable cause of death and disease in Oregon, responsible for more than 7,000 deaths each year."

DROPBOX LINK TO EVENT FOOTAGE: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/w7edzegl353g5ky/AAAjn9g3Exs8UoM9zBU1qdMfa?dl=0

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May 18, 2017

Media contacts:
Jonathan Modie, OHA, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@state.or.us
Peter Parisot, Cascade AIDS Project, 503-278-3850, pparisot@cascadeaids.org

OHA using van to take HIV survey, testing effort to target populations
'Chime In' effort is part of End HIV Oregon effort launched in December 2016

PORTLAND, OR--The Oregon Health Authority is deploying a new piece of technology as it helps the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention learn more about risk behaviors among groups at highest risk for HIV infection: a Ford Transit van.

The van is emblazoned with the logo of Chime In, the local name for the CDC-funded National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Project (NHBS) that OHA and Portland State University are conducting in partnership with the Cascade AIDS Project (CAP). Starting in June, the van will be deployed to dozens of venues in the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area that are popular with the project's focus population: gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men.

Members of the Chime In staff, who are based in the HIV Program at the OHA's Public Health Division and CAP, will conduct surveys of individuals at 15 to 30 randomly selected venues--bars, clubs, sporting events, social and community events--up to two times per month. They will also conduct interviews at special events such as PRIDE. Participants will receive $25 cash for completing an interview, and $25 for taking an HIV test.

"We want people to recognize the Chime In van and participate in the survey if they're approached by a member of the Chime In team," said Sean Schafer, MD, medical director for HIV programs at OHA. "Participants will be helping us gather important information about risk behaviors, and they get a test in the process so they can learn their HIV status."

The van can accommodate up to three interview and HIV tests at a time. Both the survey and test are anonymous, and participants have the option of opting out of the HIV test. People should know that the Chime In surveyors are actually prohibited from interviewing people who approach the Chime In van or staff on their own. Participants must wait to be invited to participate.

Questions in the survey are related to risk behaviors and prevention services among groups at highest risk for HIV infection. Anonymous HIV testing builds knowledge of the prevalence of previously unrecognized HIV infection among men who have sex with men in the Portland-Vancouver area. Locally specific questions help inform public health officials and others about the uptake and impact of public health activities designed to reduce HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

In addition, local questions collect information about other important health issues such as homelessness and opioid misuse. Overall, Chime In helps state and local health departments establish and maintain better HIV prevention and treatment programs for people in the Portland and Vancouver area.

The survey will contribute data crucial to the state's End HIV Oregon initiative, which aims to eliminate all new HIV infections within the next five years, and ensure that all people living with HIV have access to high-quality care, free from stigma and discrimination.

"CAP is taking an active role in training the Chime In staff on topics such as working with LGBTQ+ community, HIV testing, HIV, sexually transmitted infections and PrEP," said Caitlin Wells, CAP's director of prevention and education. PrEP is the acronym for pre-exposure prophylaxis, a daily pill that prevents HIV infection.

"We are also working on formative parts of the project, including providing input on survey locations and local questions to add to the project," Wells added. "The Chime In program will support CAP's mission to promote health equity in our community by ensuring that the data exist to accurately track and reach people who are at risk for HIV."

The population surveyed in NHBS rotates annually among three groups: men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID), and heterosexuals at increased risk of HIV (HET). In 2017, the survey population is men who have sex with men.

The Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area is one of 22 cities across the country that participates in NHBS.

For more information about Chime In, visit www.ChimeInSurvey.org.

View a YouTube video about Chime In at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRcqoMHKjKA.

About Cascade AIDS Project
Cascade AIDS Project is the oldest and largest AIDS Service Organization in Oregon and Southwest Washington. Prism Health, a primary care health center, is an integral part of CAP's expanding mission to serve the broader LGBTQ+ community and will help remove barriers and improve access to health care for all LGBTQ+ individuals. For more information about CAP or Prism Health, visit www.cascadeaids.org or www.prismhealth.org.


Attached Media Files: 2017-05/3687/104529/Chime_In_Mobile_Unit_Final_(002).JPG

MEDIA ADVISORY

May 17, 2017

News conference scheduled Thursday at 9:45 a.m.

What: Oregon Governor Kate Brown, with support from Oregon Health Authority (OHA), will announce the state's tobacco prevention priorities moving beyond 2017. More than 20 years have passed since Oregonians voted to pass Measure 44, a ballot measure that increased the price of tobacco and dedicated a portion of tobacco tax sales revenue to the prevention movement. These public health initiatives, backed by Oregon voters, aim to keep kids and young people from starting to use tobacco and to helping tobacco users quit. Since 1997, per capita cigarette pack sales have declined by more than 55 percent. The event will celebrate the successes of Oregon's tobacco prevention efforts over the past two decades.

When: Thursday, May 18, 9:45-10:15 a.m.

Where: Oregon State Capitol Ceremonial Room, 900 Court St. NE, Salem

Speakers:
-- Governor Kate Brown
-- Lynne Saxton, Oregon Health Authority Director
-- Rebels for a Cause, a student-led group from Washington County committed to youth tobacco use prevention
-- Christopher Friend, American Cancer Society Oregon government relations director

Why: Tobacco remains the No. 1 preventable cause of death and disease in Oregon and is responsible for more than 7,000 deaths each year. There's still work to be done. Governor Brown and OHA will unveil their tobacco prevention priorities moving beyond 2017.

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MEDIA ADVISORY

May 17, 2017

Media are invited to attend a celebration of Lane County's achievements at Cottage Grove High School Friday at 1:30 p.m.

What: Governor Kate Brown, with support from Oregon Health Authority (OHA), will announce the state's tobacco prevention priorities moving beyond 2017. The event will also celebrate the successes of Lane County's tobacco prevention efforts over the past two decades. More than 20 years have passed since Oregonians voted to pass Measure 44, a ballot measure that increased the price of tobacco and dedicated a portion of tobacco tax sales revenue to the prevention movement. These public health initiatives, backed by Oregon voters, aim to keep kids and young people from starting to use tobacco, and to help tobacco users quit. Since 1997 per capita cigarette pack sales have declined by more than 55 percent.

Governor Brown and OHA will commend Cottage Grove and the rest of Lane County for serving as a leader in tobacco prevention for the rest of the state. One of Lane County's most recent accomplishments is the passage of Tobacco 21, increasing the legal age to purchase tobacco products to 21.

When: Friday, May 19, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Where: Cottage Grove High School Library, 1375 S. River Rd., Cottage Grove

Speakers:
-- Governor Kate Brown
-- Lillian Shirley, public health director, Oregon Health Authority
-- Lane County Commissioner Pat Farr
-- Youth Advisory Council (YAC), a student group committed to youth tobacco use prevention
-- Iton Udosenata, Cottage Grove High School principal
-- Lisandra Perez Guzman, MD, public health and preventive medicine specialist

Why: Tobacco remains the No. 1 preventable cause of death and disease in Oregon and is responsible for more than 7,000 deaths each year. There's still work to be done. Governor Brown and OHA will unveil their tobacco prevention priorities moving beyond 2017.

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Salem, OR -- Motorboats, kayaks, canoes, rafts, pontoon, drift, stand up paddleboards, sailboats, personal watercraft; there's a boat out there that can connect you to the water and a rental facility ready to help you get your feet wet if you're new to boating.

The Oregon State Marine Board invites boaters to explore the interactive Boating Oregon Map, where you can find a boat ramp near you, or plan for a weekend escape to places less-frequented.

"This season is going to be a fantastic year for water recreation with abundant water," says Ashley Massey, Public Information Officer for the Marine Board. "Just be sure to plan ahead by checking the weather, water levels, reported obstructions, and having all of the right gear. Boaters can check the Marine Board's website for everything a boater needs to know to start planning a trip." Massey adds.

Massey emphasizes paying attention to your surroundings, continually scanning port to starboard and keeping a close eye on what's dead-ahead. "2016 saw an increase in accidents, largely from collisions," says Massey. "Familiarize yourself with the rules-of-the-road, and start out slow because of debris in the water from this past winter."

"With the extraordinary high water levels, many wing dams (also known as pile dikes) on rivers and bays are just below the surface, so boaters need to keep their distance from the shoreline up to several hundred feet out from shore." Boaters are encouraged to learn where the wing dams are located based on the waterbody where they're boating from www.charts.noaa.gov, for free, downloadable navigation charts.

Think about taking a "dispersion excursion" to lesser-known waterbodies, especially for people new to paddlesports or seeking more solitude. There are 96 waterways where motors are prohibited and 50 designated as electric motor only waterways. Visit the Marine Board's Experience Oregon Boating Handbook for more information about these areas.

The Marine Board also recommends boaters play it safe by:
Abstaining from marijuana, drugs or alcohol. Instead, take along a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and plenty of water. Impairment can lead to a BUII arrest. Drugs and alcohol impair a boater's judgement and coordination. Swift currents, changing weather and debris require boat operators to be focused and skilled to avoid an accident.
If you are feeling fatigued, take a break on land and return to the water when you are re-energized and alert. Wind, glare, dehydration and wave motion contribute to fatigue. Continually monitor the weather because it changes quickly.
Operators and passengers should wear properly fitting life jackets. Learn more about life jacket types, styles and legal requirements. Anyone rafting on Class III Whitewater Rivers is required to wear a life jacket, and all children 12 and under when a boat is underway. The water temperature for most waterways is below 50 degrees and wearing a life jacket is the most important piece of equipment for surviving the first few seconds of cold water immersion.
Never boat alone --especially when paddling. Always let others know where you are going and when you'll return.
Be courteous to other boaters and share the waterway. Congestion is a given in many popular locations, especially with nice weather. Paddlers need to stay in calmer water near the shore and allow motorized boats to operate in deeper water. Motorized boaters should be given priority when launching, as many boat ramps are designed for heavier trailered boats to access the water.
In Oregon, all boaters must take a boating safety course and carry a boater education card when operating a powerboat greater than 10 horsepower. The Marine Board also offers a free, online Paddling Course for boaters new to the activity.

For more information about safe boating in Oregon, visit www.boatoregon.com.


Attached Media Files: 2017-05/4139/104660/PDXMixed.jpg , 2017-05/4139/104660/WearItOR.gif , 2017-05/4139/104660/BSBS.jpg

Two separate committees will meet to score and rank applications for the Preserving Oregon and Diamonds in the Rough Grant programs. The recommendations from the committees will be forwarded to the State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation for final review and approval on June 16 in Redmond. Both meetings will be at the North Mall Office Building, 725 Summer Street, NE, and can also be accessed by phone.

The Preserving Oregon Grant committee will meet June 6, 9:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. in room 124B. Call in information is (872) 240-3311, access Code: 630-845-173.

The Diamonds in the Rough Grant committee will meet June 8, 8:30 a.m. -- 12:00 p.m. in room 124A. Call in information is (571) 317-3122, access Code: 824-082-677.

For information about the grants contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: Kuri.Gill@oregon.gov .

Two state heritage boards will meet June 6 to make grant awards. The meetings of the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries and the Oregon Heritage Commission are open to the public and their agendas include opportunities for public comment.

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The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet through a teleconference call at 2 p.m. on June 5. A public listening room will be provided in Room 147 of the North Mall Office Building, 725 Summer St. NE, Salem. Its agenda includes approval of Oregon Museum Grants, and other heritage topics.

The Heritage Commission is comprised of nine people representing Oregon's heritage and geographical diversity who have been appointed by the Governor. There are nine advisory representatives from state agencies and statewide organizations. The mission of the Oregon Heritage Commission is to secure, sustain, and enhance Oregon's heritage by ensuring coordination of heritage initiatives by public and private organizations; advocacy on its behalf; education of the public about its extent and value; and promotion and celebration of its diversity. For more information, contact coordinator Todd Mayberry at 503-986-0696 or Todd.Mayberry@oregon.gov .

For more information about the commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org

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The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries will meet by conference call at 11 a.m. Its agenda includes approval of Oregon Historic Cemeteries Grants.

State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. More information about commission activities, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail at kuri.gill@oregon.gov

For more information about the commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org

A half-day workshop custom-designed to help eastern Oregon area organizations and businesses succeed in heritage tourism will take place June 7 in Ontario.

The workshop will give you information, examples, working tools, new contacts and networking opportunities to strengthen your own attraction as a draw and build collaborations that create uniquely satisfying visitor experiences. The workshop is titled "Succeeding with Heritage Tourism: Market Information, Resources and Ideas for Attracting More Visitors through Creative Collaboration."

According to past participant, Sarah LeCompte and Oregon Heritage Commissioner, heritage tourism workshops held in eastern Oregon in spring of 2016 paved the way for a stellar year of visitation, with many heritage and cultural sites reporting visitation increases up to 15-20%.

"Looking for opportunities to collaborate and cross market to build new audiences, they learned about the need to start connecting heritage attractions with other activities that might not seem compatible at first glance. Museum and brew pub? Historic sites and street fairs and bicycle rentals? Art gallery to museum to fishing spot?" notes LeCompte, "It's easy to get focused on promoting our own area of interest, and forgetting that most humans generally have more than one favorite past-time, and want a travel and vacation experience to match their unique set of interests."

The workshop will run from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 7 at Four Rivers Cultural Center, 676 SW 5th Avenue in Ontario.

The workshop is free, but registration is required. Register online at www.oregonheritage.org .

For more information, contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or kuri.gill@oregon.gov .

The workshop is sponsored by the Oregon Heritage Commission, part of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department using statewide partner funds provided by the Oregon Cultural Trust.



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The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department's (OPRD) Scenic Bikeways Committee will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, June 8 at the department's office in the North Mall Office Building, 725 Summer St. NE, room 124, in Salem. The meeting is open to the public.

One of the action items on the agenda is the five-year review of the Old West Scenic Bikeway. Committee members want to gather information on the challenges and accomplishments of the program, share that information with other bikeways volunteer groups, and identify ways for OPRD, the committee, and program partners to build on those accomplishments.

The Scenic Bikeways Committee is an advisory group for the management and designation of routes nominated by the public for state scenic bikeway designation. Its 11 members include citizen representatives, tourism organizations, local governments, and state agencies involved in bicycling recreation or transportation.

The meeting site is accessible to people with disabilities. Special accommodations may be arranged up to 72 hours in advance by calling 503-986-0631.

On Saturday, June 3, 2017, at 11:00 a.m., the Oregon Historical Marker Program will commemorate the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion (also known as the Triple Nickles), an elite all-Black paratrooper unit deployed to Oregon near the end of WWII. A new historical marker honoring the Triple Nickles will be unveiled at the Siskiyou Smokejumper Base Museum located at the Illinois Valley Valley Airport in Cave Junction.

The Triple Nickles jumped their way into Oregon history in 1945 during a secret mission known as "Operation Firefly." Their charge was to parachute near forest fires in the Pacific Northwest caused by Japanese Balloon bombs, and disarm and destroy any remaining explosive devices.

The men of the 555th withstood many obstacles in their service to the US, including racism, lack of smoke jumping equipment, and a fatality in their unit during an Oregon jump---Private First Class Marvin L. Brown. The new marker also honors Brown's sacrifice.

Keynote speakers at the dedication include the Secretary of the Oregon Black Pioneers Gwen Carr, Professor Robert Bartlett of Eastern Washington University, Joe Murchison of the 555th Association, Ed Washington of the Oregon Travel information Council, and Roger Brandt of the Illinois Valley Community Development Organization.

"The work to uncover and commemorate the lives of men who served in Oregon as part of the Triple Nickles is a great accomplishment," Carr says. "Oregon Black Pioneers is honored to be a part of this dedication."

In addition, Carr articulates that the 555th paratrooper's story is not confined solely to "... Oregon Black history, but is a part of all Oregon history."

Brandt was instrumental in the new marker's nomination, research, and funding process. "Oregon has never formally thanked the 555th for their role in defending Oregon during WWII, says Brandt.

Brandt notes that "The 555th historical marker installation is taking the first step towards acknowledging their contribution to our state's history."

The event is free and the public is invited to attend.The Siskiyou Smokejumper Base Museum is located at 30904 Redwood Hwy in Cave Junction.

The Oregon Historical Marker Program is administered by the Oregon Travel Information Council. For more information on the Triple Nickles and their new marker, telephone 1-800-574-9397.


Attached Media Files: The Triple Nickles smokejump in the Pacific Northwest , A member of the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion , Triple Nickles on training flight aboard their C-47.

Scans this week performed by the State Chief Information Office (OSCIO) identified potentially malicious activities on two information servers operated by the Department of Environmental Quality. The agency has taken steps to protect sensitive information and eliminate any future intrusion to the agency's information technology systems. Forensic investigations by security experts are ongoing to determine the extent of the incident.

At this time, there is no evidence that sensitive information about individuals, businesses or facilities has been compromised. The agency maintains about 9,000 Social Security Numbers and contact information for about 1,500 current and former employees elsewhere in their network.

If continued investigations do identify compromised sensitive information, OSCIO will work with DEQ to notify and support affected individuals. Support could include providing credit monitoring, if necessary.

At Governor Brown's direction, the OSCIO is conducting a systemic cyber security assessment of all state agencies, starting with the biggest or those agencies having extensive public interactions. These assessments are a proactive effort by the state to minimize risk to the state's electronic information systems, to best protect Oregonians and businesses.

Wells Fargo has launched an ApprenticeshipUSA program for veterans, becoming one of the first financial service companies to do so.

A Department of Labor program, ApprenticeshipUSA provides veterans the opportunity to earn a salary while learning additional skills necessary to succeed in high-demand civilian careers.

"Our commitment to hiring veterans remains a top priority for Wells Fargo," said Carly Sanchez, head of Talent Acquisition Strategy & Delivery at Wells Fargo. "The ApprenticeshipUSA program is an excellent resource for us to attract and retain eligible veterans who have strong leadership competencies and other skills, but may not have strong financial industry knowledge."

ApprenticeshipUSA allows eligible veterans to use their GI Bill education benefits to receive a tax-free monthly payment from the government (in addition to wages earned as an apprentice). After six months of a veteran's apprenticeship, the payment is gradually reduced and offset by progressive wage increases.

The ApprenticeshipUSA Program will be piloted in Wells Fargo's Community Bank; Consumer Lending; and Payments, Virtual Solutions and Innovation divisions. For more information about the pilot and where to apply, visit www.wellsfargojobs.com/military

Wells Fargo also offers other veteran career transition initiatives, including the Veteran Employment Transition Internship Program, American Corporate Partners mentorships, and scholarships and emergency grants through Scholarship America.

About Wells Fargo
Serving the Pacific Northwest since 1852, Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a diversified, community-based financial services company with $2.0 trillion in assets. Wells Fargo provides banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance through more than 8,500 locations; 13,000 ATMs; the internet (wellsfargo.com); and mobile banking. The firm has offices in 42 countries and territories to support customers who conduct business in the global economy. With approximately 273,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in the United States.

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May 19, 2017, KLAMATH FALLS, OR -- Innovative, highly technical and eager student entrepreneurs at the Oregon Institute of Technology (Oregon Tech) came together on Thursday to compete for seed money to turn their product ideas and prototypes into real businesses. The winning project, called Helios Hive, is an invention by Renewable Energy Engineering student Mathias Dean. The project is a solar bee hive system which allows for the temperature regulation within a hive or set of hives, in order to assist with the elimination of a parasite currently leading to mass losses in bee populations.
This is the third annual Catalyze Challenge, which began with the concept of keeping Oregon Tech graduates in Klamath Falls to start entrepreneurial efforts after graduation, and help spur economic growth and stability in the region. Up from $9,000 in 2015, this year the competition had a total prize pool of $20,000, including donated space at the Gaucho Collective. With the theme of 'Innovation Close to Home,' six strong teams competed in the final round of judging on Thursday, May 18. Five volunteer judges, all from Oregon Tech's business, community and university connections, watched the presentations, asked many probing questions, and decided on the top winner. The distinguished judges determined which two runners up would receive $5,000 and $2,000, respectively for second and third places, and which winning plan and presentation would receive $7,000 to invest in start-up costs and ignite project development. Additionally, Business Oregon awarded two teams $2,500 and presented the opportunity for the teams to continue on to the InventOR finals.
Projects presented at the Challenge included:
Grey Tech 3D Scanner: Eric Pahl- Inventor, Nick Mitchell-Hooge and Josh Whitley
Helios Hive: Mathias Dean- Inventor
Oregon Tech Micro-Malter: Jennifer Berdyugin, Kelsey Sampson, Reece Ishihara, Miles Taylor, Jacob Thompson, Jimmy Finch, Keith Omogrosso and Eric Pahl
Minimize Development, LLC: Joslyn Lindsey, Zanna Vetter, Josh Allan and Kevin Smith
MOG Metalworks and Design: K.C. Crawford
Wind Turbine: Colin Yoshinaga, Grant Gholston and Brandon Walker
The three winning projects were:
1. Helios Hive, 1st Place: $7,000 prize for a Solar Bee Hive which allows for the temperature regulation within a hive or set of hives, in order to assist with the elimination of the varroa mite. This device uses the concept that the varroa mite cannot survive in temperatures between 104 Fahrenheit to 116.6 Fahrenheit while the hive and bees remained unharmed. Using direct solar radiation to heat the hive, the Solar Bee Hive uses a solar panel to convert solar energy into electricity in order to power heating elements placed directly into the hive. Inventor Mathias Dean is a Renewable Energy Engineering student graduating this year.
2. MOG Metalworks and Design, 2nd Place: $5,000 prize to expand the current capabilities of an existing business that designs and fabricates top-of-the-line products, from roll cages to signs. Specializing in CNC plasma cutting, welding, and fabrication, the money will allow MOG Metalworks to increase efficiency and larger production volumes due to the larger operating window and no need to resize raw materials. K.C. Crawford is a Mechanical Engineering student.
3. Micro-Malter, 3rd Place: $2,000 prize for an automated, transportable machine that malts barley or other grain products, which can then be used to make other products, such as beer. The machine is small enough to transport place to place and has the ability to run off of renewable energy, whether it is solar thermal energy or geothermal energy. Team members include Jennifer Berdyugin (Renewable Energy), Kelsey Sampson (Renewable Energy), Reece Ishihara (Mechanical Engineering), Miles Taylor (Mechanical Engineering), Jacob Thompson (Mechanical Engineering), Jimmy Finch (Renewable Energy), Keith Omogrosso (Electrical Engineering), and Eric Pahl (Mechanical Engineering).
Throughout the event, finalists presented and defended their business plans to the panel of judges which included: John Lamy, Oregon Manufacturing Extension Partnership, Katie Klos, Oregon BEST, Janet Soto Rodriguez, Business Oregon, Rob Jellesed, Klamath Basin Brewing, and Andrew Stork, Klamath Economic Development Association.
Also in attendance were Juan Barraza and Rachel Brunette from Business Oregon, who presented Helios Hive and Micro-Malter with Invent Oregon Best Inventor awards of $2,500 each to build prototypes and present them at the InventOR competition in Portland in October. Oregon BEST presented an additional prize of $500 to Helios Hive for a Clean Tech project and MOG Metalworks was winner of the Student Choice Award.
Kelley Minty Morris, Klamath County Commissioner and Oregon Tech Board of Trustees member, was the Master of Ceremonies and effectively led the teams and judges through the fast-paced, timed presentations.
The 2016-17 Catalyze Klamath Falls Challenge was sponsored by the Deans of Oregon Tech's College of Engineering, Technology, and Management, the College of Health, Arts, and Sciences, and the Office of Strategic Partnerships. The event is made possible through generous sponsorship and donations from AVISTA, Business Oregon, Gaucho Collective, City of Klamath Falls, Oregon BEST, Klamath County, Klamath County Economic Development Association (KCEDA), and the Wendt Family Foundation.
Members of the Oregon Tech Innovation and Entrepreneurship Committee include: Hallie Neupert, Chair, Lita Colligan, Dan Peterson, SophiaLyn Nathenson, Tara Guthrie, Mason Terry, Don Lee, Franny Howes, Aja BettencourtMcCarthy, Jesse Chaney, Mark Ahalt, and Barbara Neal.
For more information regarding the Catalyze Klamath Falls Challenge, visit www.oit.edu/catalyze.

May 16, 2017-The Klamath County Chamber of Commerce will host its Hula-Palooza 2017 Putting Challenge on July 27, 2017. This event is sponsored by Fisher Nicholson-Debra Gisriel and will be held at the Running Y Ranch & Resort's Executive Golf Course. Registration begins at 3:00 pm and the tournament begins at 4:00 pm with a shotgun start.

Lose yourself on the green while golfing and networking with fellow businesspeople. Register individually or put together a team, and enjoy the fun of mini-golf, with reception including appetizers and drinks, sponsored by Henris Roofing and Supply, Rachael Spoon-State Farm Insurance, and Final Touch Interiors. Mug for the camera and receive a photograph of your team, thanks to our Social Media and Scorecard sponsors, US Cellular.

Prizes will be awarded after the reception, including highest and lowest grossing team as well as the most Hawaiian themed team.

Join the fun at the Hula-Palooza 2017 Putting Challenge! Sponsorships are available through the Chamber office. Those interested in sponsoring the event can contact the Chamber at (541) 884-5193 for information, or go to www.klamath.org.

Sisters, Ore., May 22, 2017 -- The local American Red Cross and Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Department are partnering to save lives by installing smoke alarms in homes that need them in Sisters, Oregon. On Saturday, May 27, starting at 8:30 a.m., Red Cross volunteers and fire department representatives will go door-to-door in Sisters to install free smoke alarms and deliver fire safety information.

The Red Cross installs free smoke alarms in homes that need them and has installed more than 13,000 smoke alarms in Oregon and Southwest Washington since 2014. Five lives have been saved in this area as a result of Red Cross installed smoke alarms.

"Providing a working smoke alarm in every home is the single most important action we can take to prevent the loss of life in our community," said Roger Johnson, Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Chief. "Even though most homes have a smoke alarm, half of all fire fatalities occur in homes without a working smoke alarm. Partnering with the American Red Cross was a natural fit for our agency.

"This campaign is critical because we at the Red Cross see people affected by home fires every day, multiple times each day," said Cyndi Dahl, executive director for the Central and Eastern Oregon Chapter of the American Red Cross. "We hope that by helping people prepare now with smoke alarms and fire escape plans, we can prevent the most devastating loss a fire can cause -- the loss of life. We're grateful to the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District for partnering with us for this important endeavor."

Join us to install smoke alarms and save lives! If you would like to participate in this event, call (541) 749-4144 to RSVP for the event.

WHAT: Red Cross Smoke Alarm Installation Event

WHERE: Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Department

WHEN: Saturday, May 27, 2017

TIME: 8:30 a.m. -- 4:00 p.m.

GET AN ALARM: Homes with working smoke alarms reduce the risk of death and injury by home fire by 50%. If you would like to sign up to get free smoke alarms installed in your home, please reach out through the following:

1. Call: 541 -- 749 -- 4144

2. Online: www.redcross.org/CascadesHomeFire

3. E-mail: preparedness@redcross.org


MAKE A PLAN
You may only have two minutes to escape when a fire occurs, but most people mistakenly believe they have more than twice as long to get out. The Red Cross recommends that households develop a fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year with everyone who lives in the home. People should know two ways to escape from every room and designate a safe place to meet outside the home in case of a fire. Discuss the plan with everyone in the household and practice until every member of your household -- including children -- can escape in less than two minutes

RED CROSS HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN
Seven times a day someone in this country dies in a fire. The Red Cross has been working to reduce that number through its Home Fire Campaign, a multi-year effort to reduce the number of home fire deaths and injuries by 25 percent. Launched in October of 2014, the Red Cross and thousands of campaign partners have helped save numerous lives through the effort, as well as installing more than a quarter million smoke alarms in homes all across the country.

HOW TO HELP
Join the Red Cross effort to save lives, reduce injuries and cut down on needless losses from home fires by making a financial donation by visiting redcross.org or calling 1-800 RED CROSS. A gift to Home Fires enables the Red Cross to provide critical services to people impacted by home fires along with the lifesaving tools and information to support prevention efforts.

For additional information contact:

Monique Dugaw
Regional Director of Communications
(503) 877-7121
monique.dugaw@redcross.org

Cyndi Dahl
Executive Director: Central & Eastern Oregon
(541) 603-6225
cyndi.dahl@redcross.org

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/Cascades or find us on Twitter at @RedCrossCasc.


Attached Media Files: News Release - Sisters HFC May 27 , Sisters HFC Flyer - May 27 Event

Voters on Tuesday approved two-thirds of school construction bonds statewide -- including the largest school bond in Oregon history: $790 million for Portland Public Schools. Ten bonds passed and five were defeated.

In addition to its historic amount, the PPS measure was notable in that it gained 66 percent of the vote, tying a much smaller ($4 million) Tillamook proposal in terms of overall community support. Other bonds gaining passage included: Bend-La Pine ($268 million), Greater Albany ($159 million), Jefferson ($14.4 million), Lake Oswego ($187 million), North Powder ($3 million), Rogue River ($3 million), Sweet Home ($4 million), and Vernonia ($6.8 million).

Bonds did not pass in Ontario, South Umpqua, Yoncalla, Hermiston and Coos Bay. The Coos Bay bond, for $66.5 million, trailed passage by the slimmest of margins: 22 votes out of more than 7,100 cast.

Jim Green, executive director of the Oregon School Boards Association (OSBA), said the results indicate Oregonians' longtime support for public education.

"Our residents understand the need to pay for the infrastructure of Oregon's public schools," he said. "The continuing challenge is ensuring that we find a way to invest adequately in the continuing operation of our schools."

In the only community college bond election, Mount Hood Community College's $75 million bond was defeated.

A full listing of the election results can be found at http://www.osba.org/Resources/Article/Bonds/Election-Recent_Bond-Local_Option_Election_Results.aspx?et=1,2,3&dt=3,1,9&d=5/16/2017&dist=&c=&o=&to=&min=&max=&admn=&admx=

OSBA is a member services agency for more than 200 locally elected boards serving school districts, education service districts and community colleges. It also provides services to charter schools and their boards.

Oregon agriculture is a big reason why our state is so scenic and beloved. From the breathtaking view of flowering orchards in the Gorge; to a bushel of colorful, just-picked berries; to the majestic site of a cowboy herding cattle across an eastern Oregon range, there is infinite beauty to behold in farming and ranching.

Oregon Farm Bureau invites the public to capture some of these scenes and submit their photos for the 2018 Oregon's Bounty Calendar Contest.

"During the summer, there's a lot of harvest activity on farms and ranches that's visually interesting, and also opportunities for great photos at farm stands, u-pick fields, and county fairs. We're looking for exceptional, 'gaze-worthy' images of all aspects of farming and ranching in Oregon," said OFB Communications Director Anne Marie Moss.

The award-winning Oregon's Bounty Calendar celebrates the diversity of agriculture: the products, people, cultivation, harvest, landscape, anything that depicts the beauty, culture, enjoyment, technology, or tradition of family farming and ranching across all parts of the state.

Horizontal-format, high-resolution images -- both close-ups and panoramic views -- are needed of all types of agriculture in all seasons. Subject ideas include fruits, vegetables, flowers, crops in the field, farm animals, planting and harvesting, portraits of farm and ranch families, u-picks, farm stands, and farmland in all seasons.

Selected photographers will receive a photo credit in the calendar, which is distributed to over 66,000 Farm Bureau members, and at least 10 copies of the calendar. Every person who submits photos will receive one complimentary copy of the 2018 calendar, a $15 value.

> The deadline is September 15, 2017.

> Digital images MUST be available in high-resolution, 300 dpi format or higher at size of at least 8.5" x 11", otherwise photos will be too grainy when enlarged.

> Horizontal-format photos work best for the calendar layout.

> Photos of people may require a signed photo release form.

> There is no limit to the number of photos that can be submitted.

Submit your images in one of three ways:

1. Email photos to: annemarie@oregonfb.org, (Note that OFB's email server has a file size limit of 10mb. Photos may need to be sent individually).

2. Upload photos to OFB's dropbox at https://spaces.hightail.com/uplink/OregonFarmBureau

3. Mail a thumb drive, disc, or printed photos to OFB, attn.: Anne Marie Moss, 1320 Capitol St. NE, Suite 200, Salem, OR 97301.

Find detailed photo specifications, contest rules, and a link to the 2017 Oregon's Bounty Calendar at www.oregonfb.org/calendar.

Photographers do not need to be Farm Bureau members to participate and there is no limit to the number of photos that can be submitted.

PHOTO CAPTION: The 2017 Oregon's Bounty Calendar cover image was taken by Barb Iverson of Clackamas County Farm Bureau.

The state's largest general farm organization, Oregon Farm Bureau (OFB) is a grassroots, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization representing the interests of the state's farmers and ranchers in the public and policymaking arenas. First established in Oregon in 1919, Farm Bureau is organized in all 36 counties and has nearly 7,000 member families that are professionally engaged in agriculture.

For more information, contact Anne Marie Moss, OFB Communications Director, at annemarie@oregonfb.org, 503.399.1701, ext. 313.

###

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

The state's largest general farm organization, Oregon Farm Bureau (OFB) is a grassroots, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization representing the interests of the state's farmers and ranchers in the public and policymaking arenas. First established in Oregon in 1919, Farm Bureau is organized in all 36 counties and has 7,000 member families that are professionally engaged in agriculture.

Oregon Farm Bureau President Barry Bushue is a third-generation farmer raising a variety of vegetables and berries at a nearly century-old farm near Boring, Oregon. He is OFB's 15th president.


Attached Media Files: 2017-05/5507/104616/2017_cover.JPG

Oregon's Angi Bailey, a second-generation nursery owner and board member of Multnomah County Farm Bureau, was one of only 10 farm and ranch leaders selected from across the country to participate in the American Farm Bureau Federation's (AFBF) Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) class.

The PAL curriculum is a high-level, executive training program that prepares participants to represent agriculture in the media, in public speaking, in congressional testimony, and other advocacy arenas. Program graduates emerge with the experience and confidence -- in everything from legislative policymaking and issues management to social media and media relations -- to effectively communicate about important issues impacting farm and ranch families.

"We're very proud that Angi was selected from a national pool of candidates for the prestigious PAL program," said Dave Dillon, Oregon Farm Bureau (OFB) executive vice president.

"Angi has embraced her role as a grassroots leader in Farm Bureau, which as a general agriculture organization represents the diversity of farming and ranching in Oregon and the 250 commodities raised here. While the public policy issues that directly affect her ornamental tree farm are relatively narrow, Angi has advocated for Oregon families who raise cattle, wheat, timber, dairy cows, and other products with a rare passion, as if the issues that impact her neighbors were challenging her own operation's ability to survive and thrive," said Dillon. "She's a dedicated, effective advocate for all of Oregon's hard-working farm and ranch families."

Bailey grew up on a nursery in Gresham established by her mom Verna Jean Hale. As a young adult she left the farm, but returned in 2005 to take over the family business. In a new role as a farm owner, she was surprised by how much public perception of modern agriculture had changed over the years.

"When I came back to the farm, it was striking to see a very distinct rural-urban divide. That's really what inspired me to become an advocate for agriculture," said Bailey.

"I hear the questions my friends as moms and as consumers ask about food production and agriculture, and then I see the farm and ranch families who are working so hard to raise safe, high-quality food and fiber. Most people don't really understand what it takes to run a farm, manage a successful business, and feed a nation. There's a disconnect there. I want to help close that gap."

In her role as an "agvocate," Bailey has testified before state legislative committees in Salem, met with federal agency reps and Oregon's congressional delegation in Washington D.C., given numerous media interviews, appeared in a national campaign promoting the need for immigration reform, and used social media to share her perspective as a family farmer. She's worked on ag-related issues as diverse as labor, taxes, water, biotechnology, and responsible pesticide use.

Within Farm Bureau, Bailey has served on the Multnomah County Farm Bureau board of directors, as a state Farm Bureau board member and officer, as an AFBF voting delegate, AFBF conference participant, member and chair of various AFBF commodity/issue advisory committees, and completed the invitation-only AFBF Communications Boot Camp in Washington D.C.

Bailey also works with Oregonians for Food & Shelter as its grassroots coordinator.

AFBF's PAL program begins in June with a training in New York City. In September, the group will travel to Washington D.C. A total of four intensive training sessions will take place over a two-year period.

Bailey is determined to immediately put her newly honed communication skills to use as a spokesperson for Oregon agriculture, and she hopes to share what she's learned with fellow Farm Bureau members.

Said Bailey, "I'm very committed to Oregon's natural resources community. I feel this opportunity will make me a better, stronger advocate for our state's proud farmers, ranchers, and foresters."

###

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

The state's largest general farm organization, Oregon Farm Bureau (OFB) is a grassroots, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization representing the interests of the state's farmers and ranchers in the public and policymaking arenas. First established in Oregon in 1919, Farm Bureau is organized in all 36 counties and has nearly 7,000 member families that are professionally engaged in agriculture.

Oregon Farm Bureau President Barry Bushue is a third-generation farmer raising pumpkins, u-pick produce, and flowering baskets at a nearly century-old farm near Boring, Oregon. He is OFB's 15th president.


Attached Media Files: Second-generation farmer Angi Bailey with her husband Larry and daughters Abbi (left) and Katie. , Nursery owner Angi Bailey of Multnomah County Farm Bureau was one of only 10 participants accepted into American Farm Bureau’s prestigious Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) class.

Portland, OR -- In 2015, the Oregon Historical Society embarked on an ambitious two-year project to build an infrastructure to create, collect, preserve, and provide access to digital materials in its vast historic collections. Today, OHS announces a major milestone in this project with the official launch of OHS Digital Collections (https://digitalcollections.ohs.org).

This new website allows online public access to a rich variety of materials from the OHS Research Library, including items from our manuscript, photograph, film, and oral history collections. Behind the scenes, these files are safeguarded using a series of digital preservation workflows, systems, and storage processes called the OHS Digital Vault.

While collections will continue to be added to the site on an ongoing basis, featured collections at launch include:

Photographs from Oregon conservation pioneers William L. Finley, Irene Finley, and Herman Bohlman, part of the Reuniting Finley and Bohlman project, a current year-long collaboration with Oregon State University Special Collections and Archives Research Center. This project is supported in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the Oregon State Library.

Newspaper photographs from the Oregon Journal nitrate negative collection, consisting of images from the Portland paper taken during the 1920s and 1930s. This digitization project-in-progress is funded by a grant from the Jackson Foundation.

Papers of Joel Palmer, 1848-1880, Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the Oregon Territory and an Oregon State Legislator. Digitization was done in collaboration with the University of Oregon Special Collections.

Landscape photographs by the renowned San Francisco photographer Carleton E. Watkins taken during his visits to Oregon and the Columbia River in the 1860s and 1880s.

Early twentieth century photographs from Portland's Kiser Photo Co., one of the most successful and widely known commercial studios in the American West.

Selected oral histories, including interviews from the Gay and Lesbian Archives of the Pacific Northwest (GLAPN).

Over 1100 portraits from the OHS Cartes de Visite Collection, 1861-1893.

"We're proud to announce the availability of this platform, which we view as a cornerstone of our organizational mission to make Oregon's history open and accessible to all," said OHS Digital Archivist Mathieu Deschaine. "We look forward to continued additions that will illustrate the breadth and diversity of our holdings and encourage their use for teaching, learning, and research."

OHS Digital Collections and the OHS Digital Vault are funded by a generous grant from The Collins Foundation, with additional support from a bequest from the estate of William Bilyeu. Ongoing digitization is supported by private and public funders. Support for the expansion of the OHS Digital Vault to build further capacity to digitize rare and unique items can be made through donations to the Oregon Historical Society's FORWARD! capital campaign.

Begin exploring OHS Digital Collections at https://digitalcollections.ohs.org.


About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than a century, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state's collective memory, preserving a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms & website (www.ohs.org), educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon's history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and rich as Oregon's cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.


Attached Media Files: General Joel Palmer, pioneer of 1845. Oregon Historical Society Library, Cartes-de-visite Collection; Org. Lot 500; b5.f843-1; OrHi 27903, ba000968 , Stereograph of Multnomah Falls, Columbia River Gorge, Oregon, taken in autumn 1883. Oregon Historical Society Library, Carleton E. Watkins photographs, 1861-1885; Org. Lot 93; b2.f67, ba021022 , Handcolored photograph of view north from Mussel House Point, Bayocean, Oregon, 1908. Oregon Historical Society Library, Kiser Photo Co. photographs, 1901-1999; bulk: 1901-1927.; Org. Lot 140; b2.f36, ba021249 , Crowd stands at baseball game, Vaughn Street Park. Oregon Historical Society Library, Oregon Journal Negative Collection; Org. Lot 1368; Box 369; 369N020 , A meadowlark crouching about to fly. Oregon Historical Society Library, William L. Finley Photographs Collection, circa 1900-1940; Org. Lot 369; b19; FinleyA2177

The Oregon State Parks Foundation today announced that its online silent auction of 30 Campsites at the Crooked River Campground in the Cove Palisades State Park in Central Oregon raised $60,000 in support of Oregon's State Parks.

Bids for the four night campground spaces averaged $500 a night. The auction attracted attention and bidders from across the country, although the winners were all from the West Coast with the exception of one winner from New York.

Seth Miller, Executive Director, said "Many people are not aware that the Oregon's State Parks are not funded by state taxes. Instead, visitor fees are the primary source of income, and a fixed portion of the Oregon Lottery revenues covers about 40% of the cost of operating the parks. Unfortunately, these sources of funds are not keeping up with the growing costs, so the Foundation was formed to help enhance the experience of using the parks."

Funds raised by this event support the Oregon State Parks Foundation, and enables it to support programs to encourage healthy activities and outdoor education, and increase access to the parks by under-served communities.

You can help too, become member of the Foundation for only $45 a year...and you will get a FREE one year parking pass as a thank you!

Learn more at www.oregonstateparksfoundation.org


About the Foundation

The Oregon State Parks Foundation was formed in 1995. It is the only statewide non-profit partner of the Oregon Parks & Recreation Department. Our mission is to enhance and preserve the experience of using Oregon's 255 State Parks....now and for future generations.

Since 1995, the Foundation has supported many vital projects such as restoring Vista House at Crown Point, helping to renovate five Oregon Lighthouses, preserving the Kam Wah Chung & Co Museum, and putting the first yurts in State Parks anywhere in the country. The Foundation is just completing a capital campaign to build a residential outdoor school facility at the Cottonwood Canyon State Park.
We strive to connect all Oregonians with their State Parks, to enrich the visitor experience through interpretation and education, and to promote an active and healthy lifestyle.


Attached Media Files: 2017-05/6096/104670/2017_Eclipse_Results_Release.pdf