On 7/19/24 the Central Point Police Department received a report of potential sexual exploitation of a 5 year old child. Members of the Central Point Police Department Criminal Investigations Division took over the investigation. This complaint led to the arrest of Craig Albert Johnson, 68 years old, of Ashland. Johnson was lodged at the Jackson County Jail on 7/30/24 on the charges of Invasion of Personal Privacy in the First Degree, Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the First Degree and Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct. Johnson remains in custody as of this release. 

During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that Johnson was employed at the Children's World Montessori School in Ashland and that additional instances of child exploitation had occurred at the school in Ashland. This discovery brought detectives from the Ashland Police Department into the investigation.

Several victims have been identified and detectives are actively working on identifying additional potential victims. So far, all children found to have been victimized by Johnson are female. 

The Children's World Montessori School is cooperating with this investigation. The Ashland Police Department and Central Point Police Department understand the impact this has to our community and are actively working to investigate this matter. 

As the investigation proceeds additional criminal charges will be added as appropriate.

In addition to APD and CPPD this case is receiving assistance from the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force, the Jackson County Sexual Assault Response Team and the Jackson County District Attorney’s office.

Anyone with information relating to this investigation is asked to please reach out to Detective Lacie Six with the Ashland Police Department. 

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. - The Douglas County Sheriff's Office is instituting several evacuation level changes to the Devil's Knob and Milepost 98 Fires. These changes will take effect at 5:00 pm on Thursday, September 12, 2024. An interactive map reflecting these evacuation levels can be found online at: www.dcso.com/evacuations 

• LEVEL 3 "GO!":
  • No Level 3 evacuation notices exist for either incident.
     
• LEVEL 2 "BE SET":
  • No Level 2 evacuation notices exist for either incident. The previous Level 2 evacuation notices have been downgraded.
     
• LEVEL 1 “BE READY”:
  • All residences on Joe Hall Road, Tiller (Devil's Knob Fire)
  • All residences on Tison Road, Tiller (Devil's Knob Fire)
  • All residences on Elk Diamond Road, Tiller (Devil's Knob Fire)
  • All residences on Ritchie Road, Canyonville (Milepost 98 Fire)
     
• CANCELLED EVACUATION NOTICES
  • All residential addresses on Canyon Creek Road, Canyonville (Milepost 98 Fire)
  • All residences on the East side of Tiller Trail Hwy between the 34000 block to 36760 block, Tiller (Devil's Knob Fire)

All residents who have been placed on any level of evacuation notice and those living in proximity of the fire should continue to monitor official sources for updated information. Any changes to these evacuation notices or danger levels will be communicated through official channels. 

UPDATE 09/11/2024 8:30 PM

GARDINER, Ore. - On Monday, September 9, 2024, detectives with the Douglas County Sheriff's Office were made aware of an attempt to tamper with the female victim in this case. Detectives were advised that 36-year-old Eric Cumming and his wife, 38-year-old Tabitha Cumming, both of Gardiner, were conspiring to get the juvenile victim to change her story in order to get Eric released.

“Detectives launched an investigation into the allegations and determined that Eric, who is currently lodged in the Douglas County Jail was communicating with his wife via letters. In those letters they discussed having Tabitha persuade the victim into changing her story,” Lt. Kelley Bean said.

Bean says Tabitha went as far as to contact the Douglas County District Attorney's Office and advise them that the juvenile had recanted her story and wanted to set the record straight. 

DCSO Detectives spoke with Tabitha and the juvenile, determining that Tabitha and Eric had in fact taken steps toward tampering with the witness/victim.

Tabitha was taken into custody and lodged in the Douglas County Jail on a single charge of Tampering With a Witness, a class C Felony. Eric, who was already in custody on the original charges was also charged with the crime of Tampering With a Witness. 

###

ORIGINAL RELEASE 08/19/2024 8:00 AM

GARDINER, Ore. - A Gardiner man has been arrested and lodged in the Douglas County Jail on sex crime charges.

On Saturday, August 17, 2024, at approximately 10:00 am, deputies were dispatched to a reported disturbance in the 70000-block of Highway 101 in Gardiner. After arriving, deputies determined there were no crimes committed during the disturbance.

As deputies were preparing to leave, they learned information that a juvenile had previously reported to an adult that they had been the victim of sexual assault by 36-year-old Eric Thomas Cumming of Gardiner. Cumming is known to the victim.

Deputies began investigating and developed probable cause for the arrest of Cumming. He was taken into custody and transported to the Douglas County Jail where he was lodged on the following charges:

• Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the First Degree x10
• Sexual Abuse in the First Degree x10

Cumming remains in custody at the Douglas County Jail.

###

CURRENT EVACUATION NOTICES

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. - Evacuations remain in place for the Devil's Knob and Milepost 98 Fire, although the Sheriff's Office has instituted a number of downgrades this evening. The following is a summary of the current evacuation levels as of Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at 8:00 pm. An interactive map reflecting these evacuation levels can be found online at: www.dcso.com/evacuations 

• LEVEL 3 "GO!":
  • No Level 3 evacuation notices exist. The previous Level 3 evacuation notices have been downgraded. 
     
• LEVEL 2 "BE SET":
  • All residences on Joe Hall Road, Tiller (Devil's Knob Fire)
  • All residences on Tison Road, Tiller (Devil's Knob Fire)
  • All residences on Elk Diamond Road, Tiller (Devil's Knob Fire)
  • All residences on Ritchie Road, Canyonville (Milepost 98 Fire)
     
• LEVEL 1 “BE READY”:
  • All residences on the East side of Tiller Trail Hwy between the 34000 block to 36760 block, Tiller (Devil's Knob Fire)
     
• CANCELLED EVACUATION NOTICES
  • All residential addresses on Canyon Creek Road, Canyonville (Milepost 98 Fire)

All residents who have been placed on any level of evacuation notice and those living in proximity of the fire should continue to monitor official sources for updated information. Any changes to these evacuation notices or danger levels will be communicated through official channels. 

CANYONVILLE, Ore., - This is a wildfire emergency alert from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office. This is a DOWNGRADE of evacuation levels for all homes within the previously established evacuation zones for the Mile Post 98 fire in Canyonville.

DOWNGRADED to a Level 2 - BE SET for:

• The 100 to 7500 block of Ritchie Road to Canyon Creek Road.

DOWNGRADED from a Level 2 to a Level 1- BE READY notice for: 

• The 100 to 950 block of Canyon Creek Road.

Conditions may change so continue to monitor. Drive slowly through active response areas. For local information, visit www.dcso.com/evacuations

A Level 3 remains in place only for utility structures on upper Ash Creek Road. No residential homes on Ash Creek Rd are included in a level 3 at this time.

TILLER, Ore. - UPDATE AS OF 11:30 am 09/07/2024:

The east side of Tiller Trail Hwy 34000 to 36760 block has been DOWNGRADED from a Level 3 to a Level 1 – BE READY notice.

Following reassessment with Devil's Knob Fire teams this morning and the successful operations overnight these addresses are downgraded.

Remaining in a Level 3 at this time are Joe Hall, Tison Road, Diamond Elk Road.

Monitor conditions and drive slowly through active response areas.

View map at www.dcso.com/evacuations.

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PREVIOUSLY RELEASED INFORMATION:

This is a wildfire emergency alert from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office. This is an UPGRADE from a Level 1 to a Level 3 – GO NOW! for the following areas: East side of Tiller Trail Hwy 34000 to 36760 block. Also, Tison Road, Diamond Elk Road, Joe Hall area.

Level 3 – GO NOW means leave without delay, it is unsafe to stay and threatens the safety of you, your family, and emergency responders.

Emergency services personnel may not be available to help you if you choose to stay.

• Do not stop to gather your belongings or protect your home. Follow your emergency plan.

• Leave as fast as safely possible. Drive carefully. Turn on your headlights. Follow traffic safety warnings and instructions from local authorities.
 

Use TripCheck.com (Road & Weather Conditions Map | TripCheck - Oregon Traveler Information) or call 511 for road closure information.

After you evacuate:

• Do not return to the area until public safety officials announce the area is safe. • Continue to check for updates through local city and county websites, social media, TV, and radio.

• An interactive wildfire evacuation map can be located at: www.dcso.com/evacuations

• Once you are safe, check with friends and family.

Cooler weather and light rainfall have improved conditions allowing the Fire Marshal for the City of Grants Pass to lower the fire danger level to High (yellow). While conditions have improved, it is important to remember summer is not over. We must remain vigilant in our efforts to prevent fire.

The primary change to fire prevention regulations now in effect is to move the shut-down time for power-driven machinery to 10 am, as detailed below:

• Smoking in areas of flammable vegetation is prohibited.

• Open wood-fueled fires are prohibited, including campfires, cooking fires, and warming fires, except at locations designated by the Fire Marshal. Wood smokers, charcoal barbecues as well as propane, and natural gas-fueled ornamental fires are allowed.

• Power saws must be shut down between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Each power saw is required to have one shovel and one fire extinguisher of at least 8-ounce capacity. A fire watch of at least one hour is required following the use of the saw.

• Cutting, grinding, and welding of metal in areas of flammable vegetation is not allowed between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

• The mowing of dried, cured grass will not be allowed between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

• Motor vehicles, including motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, are only allowed on improved roads free of flammable vegetation, except for the culture and harvest of agricultural crops.

• Any other spark-emitting internal combustion engine in areas of flammable vegetation not specifically mentioned will not be allowed between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. During other hours, this equipment must be used in a cleared area and a charged garden hose or one 2 ½ pound or larger fire extinguisher is immediately available.

The City Fire Marshal or an authorized representative may, in writing, approve a modification or waiver of these requirements.

For more information about the City of Grants Pass Fire Season regulations, please call the Fire Prevention Bureau at 541-450-6200.

Video available for download: https://vimeo.com/1008640982?share=copy

IMET Case 24-14390

PHOENIX, Ore. – Illegal Marijuana Enforcement Team (IMET) detectives served a search warrant this morning at a black-market cannabis grow in the 4000 block of Fern Valley Road in rural Phoenix. IMET detectives seized approximately 6,054 illegal marijuana plants at the property in 20 greenhouses. During the initial investigation detectives learned the Phoenix property was connected to a black-market marijuana growing operation in Northern California. 

There was no licensing for any type of cannabis growing, handling, or processing at this location. IMET was assisted by Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies, and Oregon State Police (OSP) detectives.

IMET arrested one suspect on the property and charges are being referred to the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office for another suspect. The suspect arrested was Yuhua (AKA Shirley) Hong, 44, of Montague, Calif. She is charged with three felony counts including unlawful possession, distribution, and manufacture of a marijuana item. 

During the search warrant, Jackson County Code Enforcement responded to the scene and issued a total of $26,000 in fines to the responsible party. Fines were for violations related to unpermitted construction, solid waste, and operating a marijuana production area in violation of land use approvals. The Oregon Water Resources Department Enforcement section also responded to investigate the water usage. Further charges for water violations may be added at a later time.

While regulatory agencies investigate permitted cannabis operations, IMET is focusing on the black-market marijuana trade in the Rogue Valley. IMET is a multi-agency task force funded by a grant from the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission. The task force includes personnel from JCSO, Homeland Security Investigations, OSP, Medford Police Department, and the Jackson County District Attorney’s office.

Investigations are open and ongoing with detectives working additional leads. No further information is currently available for release.

###

JCSO Case 24-4944

WHITE CITY, Ore. - Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) was made aware of a threatening statement made this morning by a student at White Mountain Middle School in White City. JCSO deputies responded immediately to investigate. Deputies interviewed the juvenile suspect, multiple witnesses, and the suspect’s family and found no credible threat to the school. There was no evidence of an actual plan, or means to carry out the threat.

The student was sent home and the Eagle Point School District 9 Disciplinary Team is determining the proper action towards the juvenile. Out of an abundance of caution, multiple JCSO deputies increased their presence at the school throughout the day to assist with security and to reassure parents and students. 

We take every threat to school safety very seriously. If you learn of any school threats, call ECSO Dispatch at (541) 776-7206 to speak with law enforcement.

###

UPDATE: Cambryn has been located safe. 

Case: 24-20793

Name: Cambryn Dawn Courson

Age: 41

Sex: Female

Race: White

Height: 5'8"

Weight: 225lbs

Hair: Brown

Eyes: Brown

Information: Cambryn Dawn Courson was last seen on September 4th, 2024 at approximately 1:00pm in the 1500 block of Harbeck Road, Grants Pass. Courson is believed to have left the area on foot. She doesn’t have cell phone. 

Please contact the Josephine County Sheriff's Office with information.

541-474-5123

INCIDENT: Marijuana Search Warrant 

INCIDENT DATE: September 10, 2024 

REPORTING DEPUTY: Josephine Marijuana Enforcement Team (JMET)

CHARGES: 1- Unlawful Manufacturing of Marijuana

                       2- Unlawful Possession of Marijuana

                       3- Unlawful Appropriation of Water

DETAILS: On September 10, 2024, the Josephine Marijuana Enforcement Team (JMET) with the assistance of Josephine County Public Health & Building Safety, executed a search warrant on June Drive, Cave Junction, regarding an illegal marijuana grow site.

During the execution of the warrant, approximately 1,000 pounds of processed marijuana and over 6,200 marijuana plants were seized and destroyed. 

The property also had multiple electrical, water, and solid waste code violations. These violations could result in the criminal forfeiture of the property. 

11 people were contacted on the property during the time of the search. Based off information gathered during the warrant, these individuals were suspected to be victims of human trafficking for exploited labor. All 11 individuals were referred to UNETE, Center for Farm Worker and Immigrant Advocacy, who provided them resources and guidance to aid them in their situation.

The primary suspect was not at the location during the time of the search. They will be charged with Unlawful Manufacturing of Marijuana, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana, and Unlawful Appropriation of Water, if located.

At the time of this press release the investigation is ongoing and no further details are being released.

On Saturday morning, September 14, at about 6:10AM, a Medford Police Department (MPD) Patrol Officer was conducting extra patrol at the Delta Waters Car Wash located at Crater Lake Hwy/Delta Waters Rd. The officer made contact with the occupants of a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot and discovered that one of the occupants had just been assaulted with a knife and that the suspect had fled just prior to the officer’s arrival. The 44-year-old male victim was transported to a local hospital where he is in stable condition.

Officers immediately established a perimeter in the area and an on-duty Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy K9 assisted with a search of the area. The suspect was not located. An MPD Detective responded to the scene and has interviewed involved parties and witnesses. Detectives are developing suspect information and at this time, we are not releasing a description or name of any suspected involved people. It is believed that the victim and suspect know each other, and this was an assault stemming from a previous disagreement.

This investigation is on-going and we will update this release as further information becomes available. Reference MPD Case number 24-15042

On September 12, 2024, at approximately 4:19 PM, officers from the Medford Police Department (MPD) responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a shooting incident near Dutch Bros, across from Kensington Oak Grove Memory Care, 77 Oak Grove Rd. in Medford.

Witnesses observed a black 4-door Lexus arriving at Dutch Bros, where the passenger of the vehicle displayed a handgun to two unidentified males on foot. The two unidentified males walked to a red SUV in the parking lot of Kensington Memory Care. The driver of the black Lexus followed the individuals into the parking lot. The passenger in the Lexus then fired multiple rounds at the individuals.  Both vehicles fled in opposite directions.

Officers quickly obtained surveillance video of the suspect vehicle and relayed the description to all units. As officers searched for the suspects, a Jackson County Sheriff's Office (JCSO) deputy located the suspect vehicle on Highway 238 in Jacksonville at approximately 5:19 PM. The suspects, Daniel A. Godoy and Darien R. Bradd, were subsequently arrested and lodged for five counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

Portions of this incident were captured on surrounding security cameras and are being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.

Based on witness accounts and evidence collected at the scene, it is believed that no individuals were struck by the gunfire. MPD Detectives are attempting to identify the two unknown individuals related to this incident (see attached photos) to confirm they are uninjured. 

If anyone has additional information regarding this incident, please contact Detective Ford at 541-840-1202, referencing Case Number 24-14969.

The City of Medford will implement new speed limit reductions on Thursday, September 19. These changes aim to enhance traffic safety and improve consistency in speed zoning along Central Avenue and Riverside Avenue.

Central Avenue

• 10th St. to Barnett Rd. will have a new posted speed limit of 30 MPH (currently 35 MPH).

Riverside Avenue

• Barnett Rd. to approximately 12th St. will be posted at 30 MPH (currently a mix of 35 MPH and 30 MPH).
• 12th St. to Jackson St. will be posted at 20 MPH (currently a mix of 25 MPH and 30 MPH).

These changes will affect areas monitored by the City’s photo enforcement program. Notably, the S. Riverside Ave./E. 8th St. intersection, where a red light camera is installed, will be subject to the new 20 MPH speed limit.

Medford Police will not be issuing traffic citations for speed violations at this intersection for the first 30 days after the speed limit reduction. Instead, warning letters will be sent to drivers who exceed the posted speed limit by 11 MPH or more during this 30-day warning period. Citations for speed violations will begin on October 19, 2024.

As a reminder, there are currently five photo-enforced intersections in the City of Medford:

• N. Central Ave./E. 4th St.
• S. Riverside Ave./E. 8th St.
• Biddle Rd./E. McAndrews Rd.
• Barnett Rd./Stewart Ave.
• Crater Lake Hwy./Delta Waters Rd

To help drivers adapt to the new speed limits, the City will place orange flags on the updated speed limit signs for added visibility, and these flags will remain in place for several months.

Medford Police encourages all drivers to stay vigilant, obey posted speed limits, and follow traffic signals to promote safer roads and reduce accidents.

The Medford Police Department is alerting the public to a blackmail extortion scam that has emerged in our community. Victims have reported receiving emails from individuals claiming to have personal, incriminating information and demanding payment via Bitcoin to prevent its release.

This is a scam.

We strongly advise the public not to pay the ransom. If payment is made, the scammer will likely continue to exploit the victim for more money. Instead, delete these emails like any other junk mail. If the emails persist, contact the Medford Police Department.

Online scam artists are continually evolving their tactics. To protect yourself:
• Do not open emails from unknown senders.
• Do not click on suspicious attachments.
• Be cautious when interacting with unfamiliar individuals on social media.

If you've received these emails, report them to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center:  www.ic3.gov

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

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

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

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

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

About the Emergency Conflagration Act  

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

Update- Suspect age corrected to be 34.

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oregon State Police was assisted by the Glide Fire Department, the National Park Service, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

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

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

--Suspect wanted for sex crimes in Oregon and Alabama

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # # 

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

HILLSBORO, Ore. – The remains of U.S. Army Private William E. Calkins were laid to rest at Fir Lawn Memorial Park in Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024 during a memorial service honoring the World War II Soldier who died in a prisoner of war camp in the Philippines in 1942. Private Calkins joined the U.S. Army from Oregon and served in Company B of the 31st Infantry Regiment in the Philippines during WWII.

With full military honors provided by the Oregon Army National Guard Funeral Honor Guard team, Private Calkins remains were laid to rest at his Mother’s grave at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park after being accounted for 82 years after his death on Nov. 1, 1942. After surviving the infamous Bataan Death March from April 9 to April 17, 1942, Calkins later died of inanition at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp in Nueva Ecija Province, and was buried in a mass grave until remains were identified using DNA analysis.

Oregon Army National Guard Chaplain (Col). Jacob Scott, Oregon National Guard State Chaplain officiated the memorial service for Private “Billy” Calkins, as family members and others from the community gathered to remember his service to his country during the war.

“The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in the Philippines occupies 152 acres on a prominent plateau in the capital city. In the center of those peaceful grounds stands a beautiful white marble memorial Chapel. A limestone hemisphere monument features the tablets of the missing, and contains 36,286 names,” Scott said, describing the memorial grounds where so many American service members are remembered. “Billy’s name is permanently inscribed on those tablets…but from now on, his name will forever be adorned with a Brass Rosette, signifying that Billy’s remains will now rest in a known grave.”

William Ezra Leon Calkins was born to Joseph and Ruth Calkins on August 22, 1925 and was just 17 years old at the time of his death on Nov. 1, 1942. With a strong desire to serve his country, Calkins lied about his age to join the U.S. Army at the age of 16.

Private Calkins military awards include: The Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster (posthumous), The Purple Heart (posthumous), The Prisoner of War Medal (posthumous), The Good Conduct Medal (posthumous), The American Defense Service Medal with Foreign Service Clasp, The World War II Victory Medal, the Presidential Unit Citation with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, the Combat Infantryman Badge (posthumous), The Philippine Defense Ribbon with Bronze Star and The Philippine Republic Presidential Unit Citation.

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Released Photos:

240913-Z-CH590-1134: Framed family photos, Military Awards and tributes rest on a remembrance table for U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1117: Family members and others in the Hillsboro, Oregon community attend the memorial service for U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1102: Oregon Army National Guard Funeral Honors members conduct a flag folding ceremony to honor U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins during his memorial service at Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old.  (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1110 and 240913-Z-CH590-1114: An Oregon Army National Guard Funeral Honor Guard member presents the American Flag to family members of U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins during his memorial service at Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1021 and 240913-Z-CH590-1083:Oregon Army National Guard Funeral Honors members carry the remains of U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins during his memorial service at Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1027: Oregon Army National Guard Chaplain (Col). Jacob Scott, Oregon National Guard State Chaplain officiates the memorial service for U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1037: An Oregon Army National Guard Honor Guard member plays TAPS after a firing party honors are rendered for U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1003: A funeral procession for U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Released Photos:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Released Video:

https://dvidshub.net/r/di3cgb

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

Notice of Meeting Cancellation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• 21ten Theatre, Portland: $14,119

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

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

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

• Ashland Parks Foundation, Ashland: $21,143

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

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

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

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

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

• Tananawit, Warm Springs: $16,858

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

• Ten Fifteen Productions, Astoria: $10,186

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

Other Cultural Development grant award highlights include: 

• Boom Arts, Portland: $11,237

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• enTaiko, Portland: $22,551

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

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

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

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

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

• Nordic Northwest, Portland: $5,666

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

• North Pole Studio, Portland: $19,358

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The premium assessment funds those successful programs. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of approximately 12,000 men and women who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem that houses approximately 2,000 adults in custody. OSP is surrounded by a 25-foot-high wall with 10 towers. The facility has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, behavioral health, intermediate care housing, and an infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care. OSP participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including the furniture factory, laundry, metal shop, and contact center. It provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, work-based education, work crews, and pre-release services. OSP was established in 1866 and, until 1959, was Oregon’s only prison.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oregon boosts emergency preparedness with new evacuation software

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Survivor Investment Partnership

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

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

About the Oregon Department of Human Services

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

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

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

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

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

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

The planned projects are:

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

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

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

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

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) 
OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)

OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.

9 de septiember de 2024  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Acerca del Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregon (OHCS) 

OHCS es la agencia de financiación de viviendas de Oregón. La agencia estatal proporciona apoyo financiero y de programas para crear y preservar oportunidades de vivienda a precio asequible y de calidad para los habitantes de Oregón con ingresos bajos y moderados. OHCS administra programas que proporcionan estabilización de la vivienda. OHCS ofrece estos programas principalmente a través de subvenciones, contratos y acuerdos de préstamo con organizaciones locales y proveedores comunitarios. Para obtener más información, visite: oregon.gov/ohcs.

Embargoed until Friday, September 13, 2024 at 1 p.m. 

The Oregon Department of Education (ODE), in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, will announce Kellen Akiyama as one of Oregon’s 18 2024-25 Regional Teachers of the Year! Akiyama teaches English Language Arts, and African American Studies at Gladiola High School in Grants Pass.  

Media are invited to the surprise announcement at Gladiola High School on Friday, September 13, 2024 at 1 p.m., when Akiyama will be honored in the classroom with students. 

Every day in Oregon classrooms, teachers offer their innovation, energy and content mastery in support of students across the state. The Oregon Teacher of the Year Program recognizes and honors teacher excellence, with the state Teacher of the Year serving as the face and voice of exemplary educators across Oregon. Candidates for Oregon Teacher of the Year are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled licensed public school educators in grades pre-K-12. 

“Kellen has been an exceptional advocate for his community, especially the youth of color,” stated by a peer in his nomination. “He incorporates arts and music, such as hip hop and poem, to his social studies curriculum so students can relate to their learning better and explore different ways to show their understanding through various mediums.” 

Regional Teachers of the Year are nominated by students, colleagues, administrators, friends or family members. Regional winners were identified through a local nomination, application and selection process facilitated by the 19 Education Service Districts around the state. Applicants submitted testimonials and letters of support and were assessed by a diverse panel of regional representatives on the attributes of leadership, instructional expertise, commitment to equity, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, vision and professional development. 

“Now more than ever, we need powerful educators like these,” said Director of the Oregon Department of Education Dr. Charlene Williams. “Each Regional Teacher of the Year has earned this recognition because they champion every student, uplifting and empowering them to achieve, to create, and to feel a sense of belonging not only in the classroom, but in the wider world, as well. Students and families in Oregon are fortunate to have teachers like these whose inspiring contributions create lasting impacts that ripple out into their communities and beyond.”  

Each Regional Teacher of the Year wins a $1,000 cash prize and is in the running for Oregon’s 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year – to be announced in October. 

Since 1995, when the Oregon Lottery began allocating revenue to public education, more than $10 billion has been transferred to school districts across the state. This past year, over $3 million of Oregon Lottery funding went to the Grants Pass School District and more than $6 million went to Josephine County. 

“These exceptional teachers inspire and encourage students every day in classrooms across Oregon,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are proud to honor their contributions and vital role in making our communities stronger.”  

On Friday, September 20, 2024, once all 18 Regional Teachers of the Year are announced, the full list of statewide winners will be available on the Oregon Teacher of the Year website. 

Do you know an outstanding teacher? Please nominate them as the 2025-26 Oregon Teacher of the Year by visiting oregonteacheroftheyear.org. 

Shortly following the event, photos from the regional surprise announcement for Akiyama will be available HERE.

Thanks to the ODE's partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year will receive a $10,000 cash prize (with an additional $5,000 going to their school) and serves as a spokesperson and representative for all Oregon teachers. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 9, 2024 – BEND, OR — The 35^th annual High Desert Rendezvous—one of Central Oregon’s longest-running charitable events—set a new fundraising record this year, grossing more than $630,000 to support the programs and exhibitions of the High Desert Museum.

The record was set with help from the 2024 High Desert Rendezvous Honoree, The Bend Foundation. Founded in 1947 by Brooks Scanlon, Brooks Resources and its shareholders, The Bend Foundation has continuously invested in the health and vitality of Central Oregon. And The Bend Foundation has championed the Museum and the educational opportunities it brings to the region, from the initial idea for a museum to its grand opening in 1982 to today.

The Bend Foundation’s community support focuses on adding to the legacy of providing public art in Bend, promoting cultural, educational and intellectual enrichment programs, and enhancing or preserving our physical environment. 

“It is our pleasure to continue to support nonprofit and public organizations that work to enhance the cultural and intellectual experiences in our community,” said Romy Mortensen, Bend Foundation Trustee. “The High Desert Museum is a shining example of one of these organizations that is consistently providing opportunities for growth, discovery and enlightenment and we are proud to support it.”

“We are extraordinarily grateful to the generosity of Rendezvous attendees and this community in supporting the work of the Museum,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “The Bend Foundation in particular has provided continued leadership and commitment to the Museum throughout its 42 years, which is all the more vital as we consider what the next four decades will look like.”

The High Desert Rendezvous took place on Saturday, August 24 at the Museum. Funds from Rendezvous support the Museum’s exhibitions, wildlife encounters and educational programs that inspire wonder and learning about the High Desert region. The Museum every year opens up to nine new temporary exhibitions, cares for more than 120 animals and welcomes thousands of school children for field trips. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, nearly 225,000 people visited the Museum.

The 2024 High Desert Rendezvous was presented by Bonta Gelato and Ferguson Wellman Wealth Management with support from First Interstate Bank.

About The Bend Foundation

Established and funded by Brooks Scanlon, Brooks Resources and its shareholders, The Bend Foundation was originally formed in 1947 as a resource for injured loggers and mill workers, and to provide scholarships for industry workers. With its mission having evolved to assist in enriching the lives of the residents of Bend, Oregon, its key focus is to contribute to nonprofit and public organizations that add to the legacy of providing public art in Bend, promote cultural, educational and intellectual enrichment programs that benefit the community, and enhance or preserve our physical environment. www.bendfoundation.org

About The High Desert Museum

The High Desert Museum opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Integrated Housing Grants

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Advocacy Grants

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

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

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

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

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