On Tuesday, December 10, 2019  at approximately 2:35 P.M. Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two vehicle crash on Hwy 62 near milepost 10.

Preliminary investigation reveals a PT Cruiser, operated by Jason Renfro (35) of Medford, was traveling westbound on Hwy 62 when for unknown reasons crossed the center line and struck a eastbound VW Beetle operated by Rickie Beer (70) of Eagle Point.

Beer sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.  His passenger, Susan Beer (67) of Eagle Point, was transported to the hospital with injuries.

Renfro and his passenger, Lawrence Hunsley (59) of Prospect, were transported to the hospital with injuries. 

OSP was assisted by Jackson County Fire District 3, Eagle Point Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff's Office and ODOT

The Oregon Department of State Lands and Oregon State University will continue to explore transforming the Elliott State Forest into a publicly owned state research forest

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of State Lands (DSL) and Oregon State University (OSU) today updated the State Land Board on exploration of the Elliott State Research Forest concept and significant progress made over the past year.

This progress includes the development of a draft research charter and development of guiding principles related to forest benefits of recreation, education, local economy, conservation and governance. The potential research forest concept has also been incorporated into ongoing habitat conservation planning.

The Elliott State Forest Advisory Committee delivered a unanimous joint statement to the Land Board and recommended that work continue to transform the Elliott into a publicly owned state research forest.

“Our individual perspectives on the Elliott State Forest and our priorities for its future may differ. However, we agree that OSU should be provided the opportunity to address outstanding issues, and determine if terms required to address those issues are consistent with the Land Board vision for the Elliott,” the committee’s joint statement read.

In addition to the work of the advisory committee this past year, DSL and OSU have engaged tribes, local governments, state agencies, stakeholders, and the public in initial conversations regarding a potential Elliott State Research Forest.

Last December, the State Land Board directed DSL to work collaboratively with OSU to develop a plan for transforming the Elliott into a research forest.

The Land Board vision for the forest includes keeping the forest publicly owned with public access; decoupling the forest from the Common School Fund and compensating the fund for the forest; continuing habitat conservation planning to protect species and allow for harvest; and providing for multiple forest benefits, including recreation, education and working forest research. A successful research forest proposal is expected to be consistent with the Board vision.

The Advisory Committee noted that continued work was needed to resolve complex outstanding questions, such as how the forest will be decoupled from the Common School Fund and what a governance structure for the forest should look like.  

“While outstanding questions remain, there is enthusiasm around continued pursuit of an Elliott State Research forest,” says DSL Director Vicki L. Walker. “Diverse interests have expressed commitment to seeking a future for the Elliott in a research forest.”

As exploration continues, Oregonians can stay up-to-date via the Elliott State Forest website or by joining the Elliott State Forest updates email list. Increased opportunities for the public to provide input, both as part of the continuing exploratory process and during the formal habitat conservation planning process, are anticipated.

December 10, 2019

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

Rules Advisory Committee meets in Portland Dec. 17

What: A rules advisory committee will meet to consider proposed changes to Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 333-014-0590. The proposed changes are the result of the passage of Senate Bill (SB) 253 during the 2019 legislative session. SB 253 revised ORS 431.382 to include provisions for a local public health authority that has previously transferred its responsibilities to the Oregon Health Authority to request the responsibilities be transferred back to the local public health authority.

Agenda: Review of proposed draft rules. The agenda will include time for public comment. Agenda is subject to change and is posted with meeting materials at http://www.healthoregon.org/lhd.

When: 1-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17

Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 177, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland OR 97232.

A conference call option is available for rules advisory committee members and members of the public at 1-877-873-8017, access code 767068#. Members of the public are asked to mute their phone lines unless they are providing public comment during the designated agenda time.

Program contact: Danna Drum, 503-957-8869, um@dhsoha.state.or.us">danna.k.drum@dhsoha.state.or.us

# # #

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

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

If you need help or have questions, please contact Danna Drum at 503-957-8869, 711 TTY or um@dhsoha.state.or.us">danna.k.drum@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

December 10, 2019

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

Dental Pilot Project Advisory Committee meets Dec. 16

What: The quarterly meeting of the Dental Pilot Project Advisory Committee. The meeting will cover Dental Pilot Project #100, “Oregon Tribes Dental Health Aide Therapist Pilot Project.”

Agenda: Review of modification request; presentation by Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board; presentation by Rose McPharlin, DDS, on classification of adverse events in dentistry; review of site visit report

When: 9–11:30 a.m. Dec. 16. A public comment period will be held at the end of the meeting.

Where: Portland State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Room 900, Portland. Conference line: 1-888-636-3807, access code: 79-38-00

Background: Dental Pilot Projects are intended to evaluate the quality of care, access, cost, workforce and efficacy by teaching new skills to existing categories of dental personnel; developing new categories of dental personnel; accelerating the training of existing categories of dental personnel; or teaching new oral health care roles to previously untrained persons.

Program contact: Sarah Kowalski, 971-673-1563, ah.e.kowalski@dhsoha.state.or.us">sarah.e.kowalski@dhsoha.state.or.us.

# # #

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

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

If you need help or have questions, please contact Sarah Kowalski at 971-673-1563, 711 TTY or ah.e.kowalski@dhsoha.state.or.us">sarah.e.kowalski@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

On December 6, 2019 Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish & Wildlife Troopers received information from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife regarding a disturbing video shared via social media.  The video displayed what appeared to be a young adult male climbing onto, and eventually riding on the back of a live and exhausted mule deer buck while it was contained within a fenced enclosure.  Throughout the video, the mule deer buck can be heard grunting and/or bleating and after escaping the rider, the buck jumped into a linked fence, multiple times, attempting to escape the enclosure. 

After reviewing the video, OSP Fish & Wildlife Troopers conducted further investigation and identified two suspects from Riley, OR.  The primary suspect, identified as Jacob Belcher (18) from Riley, OR., was located on a rural ranch in Harney County where he was interviewed by Troopers.  The investigation and interviews revealed that the buck mule deer had entrapped itself within a fenced feeding enclosure, before being ridden by Belcher.  The buck was eventually freed and its status at this time is unknown.

Following interviews, Belcher was arrested and lodged at the Harney County Jail on charges of Wildlife Harassment and Animal Abuse II.  Another suspect, who was responsible for filming the incident, was identified and interviewed as well.  Charges of Aiding in a Wildlife Offense will be referred to the Harney County District Attorney’s Office.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators 

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

 Preference Point Rewards:

5 Points-Bighorn Sheep

5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points-Moose

5 Points-Wolf

4 Points-Elk

4 Points-Deer

4 Points-Antelope

4 Points-Bear

4 Points-Cougar

Or the Oregon Hunters Association TIP reward fund also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat, Moose, Elk, Deer, Antelope, Bear, Cougar, Wolf, Upland Birds, Waterfowl, Furbearers, Game Fish and Shellfish.  Cash rewards can also be awarded for turning in people who destroy habitat, illegally obtain licenses/tags and for the unlawful lending/borrowing of big game tags.

CASH REWARDS:

$1,000 Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat and Moose 
$500 Elk, Deer and Antelope 
$300 Bear, Cougar and Wolf 
$300 Habitat Destruction

$200 Illegally Obtaining License/Tag(s)

$200 Unlawful Lend/Borrow Big Game Tags(s) 
$100 Upland Birds and Waterfowl 
$100 Furbearers 

$100 Game Fish and Shellfish 

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

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

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

December 10, 2019

Media contact: Allyson Hagen, 503-449-6457, allyson.hagen@dhsoha.state.or.us

Program Contact: Zachary Goldman, 503-881-8698, zachary.k.goldman@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target Implementation Committee meets December 12

What: A public meeting of the Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target Implementation Committee.

When: December 12, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 1B, 800 NE Oregon Street Portland. The public can join remotely through a conference line at 888-808-6929, access code 915042. This meeting can also be viewed via live-stream at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eraJMDgmaig.

Agenda: Welcome; follow-up from previous meeting; adoption of charter and operating procedures; defining total health care expenditures; defining the inclusion criteria for payers; stakeholder engagement process; meeting schedule and proposed topics; public comment; next steps.

For more information and meeting materials, please visit the committee’s website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/HP/Pages/Sustainable-Health-Care-Cost-Growth-Target.aspx

# # #

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

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

If you need help or have questions, please contact Zachary Goldman at 503-881-8698, 711 TTY, y.k.goldman@dhsoha.state.or.us">zachary.k.goldman@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Spanish / Español

December 10, 2019

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

2020-2024 State Health Improvement Plan subcommittees meetings

What: Subcommittees of the 2020-2024 State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP) are tasked with identifying strategies and measures, and developing work plans for implementing the SHIP. Each of the five subcommittees is focused on one of the following priority areas:

• Access to equitable preventive health care.
• Adversity, trauma and toxic stress.
• Behavioral health.
• Economic drivers of health.
• Institutional bias.

Agenda: Develop and review strategies to support priority area goals.

Where: All meetings are held at the Portland State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. Meetings are also available remotely. For remote meeting attendance, visit the subcommittee page through the following links:

• Institutional bias.
• Adversity, trauma and toxic stress.
• Economic drivers of health (including issues related to housing, living wage, food security and transportation).
• Access to equitable preventive health care.
• Behavioral health (including mental health and substance use).

When:

• Institutional Bias Subcommittee: Dec. 18, 10 a.m. to noon, Room 915.
• Behavioral Health Subcommittee: Dec. 18, 2-4 p.m., Room 900.
• Economic Drivers of Health Subcommittee: Dec. 20, 1-3 p.m., Room 900.
• Access to Equitable Preventive Health Care Subcommittee: Dec. 16, 1-3 p.m., Room 900.
• Adversity, Trauma and Toxic Stress Subcommittee: Jan. 7, 2-4 p.m., Room 900.

All meetings are open to the public. A five-minute public comment period will be held near the end of each meeting; comments are limited to one minute.

Background: Oregon’s SHIP identifies interventions and strategies to address health-related priorities in the state. The SHIP serves as a basis for taking collective action with cross-sector partners to improve heath of people in Oregon. The SHIP is based off findings of the State Health Assessment.

Program contact: Elizabeth Gharst, 971-666-2476, eth.a.gharst@dhsoha.state.or.us">elizabeth.a.gharst@dhsoha.state.or.us

# # #

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

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

If you need help or have questions, please contact Catherine Moyer at 971-673-1132, ine.moyer@dhsoha.state.or.us">catherine.moyer@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

PORTLAND, Ore.—David Carl Paulsen, 33, of Bend, Oregon, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day in federal prison and two years’ supervised release for illegally manufacturing and possessing marijuana during a March 2018 butane honey oil (BHO) explosion in Bend.

According to court documents, on March 18, 2018, Bend police officers responded to an explosion at a residence where David Paulsen lived with his wife, Jennifer Paulsen, 34, and their three-year-old daughter. Witnesses reported that, following the explosion, the Paulsens were running around their house, putting items in their truck and car, and telling neighbors not to call the police. Witnesses also reported that David Paulsen gave his daughter to a neighbor and told the neighbor to tell police that she had been with the neighbor during the explosion. Both Paulsens suffered severe burns.

During a search of the residence, investigators discovered more than 34 pounds of marijuana, multiple butane cans, and a BHO extraction device. BHO is a concentrated form of marijuana extracted using highly flammable or combustible solvents. Investigators believe David Paulsen was operating an illegal and unlicensed open flame BHO lab in his house, which caused the explosion.

On July 18, 2018, the Paulsens were charged by a federal grand jury with manufacturing or possessing with intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense marijuana and endangering a human life while illegally manufacturing a controlled substance.

On September 18, 2019, David Paulsen pleaded guilty to one count of manufacturing or possessing with the intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense marijuana. Prior to David Paulsen’s sentencing in federal court, Jennifer Paulsen pleaded guilty and was sentenced for unlawful delivery of marijuana in Deschutes County Circuit Court. The government moved to dismiss Jennifer Paulsen’s federal charges during her husband’s sentencing.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bend Police Department. It was prosecuted by Gavin W. Bruce, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

# # #

Douglas Public Health Network is pleased to announce that a cross-sector team of leaders in Southern Oregon is about to embark on a year-long leadership training program of the Center for Health Leadership & Practice (CHLP) called the National Leadership Academy for the Public’s Health (NLAPH). The CHLP is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Members of the Collaborative of Southwest Oregon (CSO) are one of ten groups from around the country participating in the NLAPH’s 2020 cohort. The CSO has as a mission to increase community resiliency and improve the overall health and well-being of  residents of Coos, Curry, Douglas, Jackson, and Josephine counties The four members of the CSO participating in the NLAPH’s ninth cohort are Michelle Glass, Policy and Advocacy Coordinator with SO-Health-E, and Director of the Rogue Action Center; Brian Mahoney, Public Health Modernization Program Coordinator with the Douglas Public Health Network (DPHN); Analicia Nicholson, Assistant Superintendent with the Douglas Educational Service District; and Kelly Wessels, Chief Operations Officer for the United Community Action Network (UCAN).

The CSO taking part in the NLAPH’s competitive application process was very intentional.  The 5-county region covered by CSO has some of the poorest health outcomes in Oregon per the County Health Rankings and state data. The NLAPH program provides an opportunity for organizations to work across sectors and to create projects focused on health outcomes rather than outputs. The CSO believes a collective impact approach is the way forward. The challenges include: stakeholder relations; aligning the work of partners; educating sector leadership on the social determinants of health and health equity; and organizing and managing sustained community engagement. Multi-sector partners will focus their collective resources on improving health outcomes and creating prosperous communities. A goal is to create a framework to facilitate cross-sector collaboration over this large rural area.

The collaborative team will focus on the intersection of health, housing, education, and community building. The leadership skills that the team hopes to gain include: developing leadership strategies for improving community health outcomes; developing a stronger network of communication and relationships; learning to develop and lead teams with agile critical systems thinking; communicating and building trust with others in the community; gaining skills to work with elected officials and creating plans they can support; using health equity as a basis for decision making across multiple sectors; identifying and articulating the areas of shared focus across education, public health, social service agencies and community groups; and having a shared definition of health equity for use among the multi-sector partners in Southern Oregon.

The NLAPH program began in 2011 to advance leadership skills and achieve health equity in local communities. The program uses an experiential learning process that includes webinars, a multi-day retreat, coaching support, peer-networking, and an applied population health project. Participation is free for the teams and is funded by the CHLP.

Welcome to the Oregon FBI’s Tech Tuesday segment. Today: Building a digital defense as you race to finish your holiday shopping.

Today, we have a red alert straight from the big guy at the North Pole – we are just two weeks away from Christmas! Are you ready?

Online shopping makes it easier and easier for procrastinators to push those deadlines into the danger zone – but we have 12 days of tips to keep you shopping safely, and get you done early!

Day 1 – Don’t go online until you make sure that your computer and your phone are fully up to date. Santa says you should make sure you aren’t susceptible to viruses and malware.

Day 2 – Put the cold freeze on using public WiFi. If you do logon to unsecured wireless networks, you can put your private info out there for any grinch to steal.

Day 3 – Find the perfect whatnot, but the seller requires that you pay using a gift card or wire transfer? Watch out – those are telltale signs of a possible fraud.

Day 4 – Mrs. Claus is a big believer in giving “experiences” over “things”… but if you are thinking of buying tickets to a concert or sporting event for that special someone, make sure you stick with a reputable seller. You might find websites or online marketplaces where people are offering good tickets cheaply, but know that plenty of counterfeiters are ready to cash in on Christmas at your expense.

Day 5 – Hot toy or blingy bauble sold out everywhere you look? You think you hit the jackpot when you find it on a never-heard-of-before website, and, bonus, it’s cheaper than expected! Sounds great, but be warned – if you stumbled upon a scammer trying to take advantage of your desperation, the only thing that is likely to show up in the mail is a bill.

Day 6 – Pay with a credit card when possible. You will likely have more protections than paying with your debit card or cash.

Day 7 – Time to put your jingle jangle on and buy some gift cards. They are popular options, but watch out for sellers who say they can get you cards below-market value. Also be wary of buying any card in a store if it looks like the security PIN on the back has been uncovered and recovered. Your best bet is to buy digital gift cards directly from the merchant online.

Day 8 – Stay off you-know-who’s naughty list by changing your passwords. Yes, they can be difficult to remember, but, no, they shouldn’t all be the same. Make sure you use long and unique passwords for the most important sites – like your email and bank account – and update the others to stronger options frequently.

Day 9 – Tis the season for giving, and it is prime time for charities to ask for money as we get close to the end of the year. Make sure that your donations are going to legitimate non-profits by doing some basic research. Also keep an eye on how much of your donation goes directly to services – and how much it is gobbled up by admin and overhead costs.

Day 10 – It’s candy cane crunch time, with only a few days left. Don’t let stress drive you to making poor choices. Fraudsters love using social engineering techniques to trick you into making quick decisions you wouldn’t otherwise make. As the saying goes, if the deal sounds too good to be real, it likely is.

Day 11 – Almost there, and scammers are going down to the wire to make their pitch sound perfect. Beware of unsolicited emails, texts, or social media posts that promise you the chance to purchase that final needed gift. Don’t click on links or attachments no matter how much you want to be done with shopping madness.

Day 12 – You made it with just a few days to spare. We have just one final tip for you before you try to wrap that pile of presents. Spend a few minutes checking your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions. If there’s anything suspicious – make sure you report it right away.

As always, if you have been victimized by a cyber fraud, be sure to report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.IC3.gov or call your local FBI office.

Have a great holiday everyone and remember to shop safely.

BROOKINGS, Ore. – Beginning New Year’s Day the majority of campsites at Alfred A. Loeb State Park will be available for reservation for stays between Memorial Day and Sept. 30, 2020.

The park’s 53 total campsites have traditionally been first-come, first-served; however 48 of the sites will be available for reservation next summer. All sites will revert back to first come, first served for the winter season, beginning Oct. 1.

Campsite rates at the park will not change, however an $8 reservation fee will apply when booking a site.

Dani Padilla, park manager, says the new summer reservation option will help eliminate visitor guesswork about campsite availability.

“Loeb has always been a popular local campground but in recent years we’ve seen a dramatic rise in visitation, especially during summer months” says Padilla. “The result was an increasing number of campers arriving after-hours, expecting a site, and not finding one. The option to reserve a site will help give them peace of mind about their stay.”

All of the reservable sites have electricity and water. The park’s three cabins require reservations year-round. One cabin and one campsite at the park are accessible for people with disabilities. 

Campsites at the park can be reserved online or by calling 800-452-5687.

Learn more about Alfred A. Loeb State Park on oregonstateparks.org.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Charles E. Gilbert, died December 8, 2019. Gilbert was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary and passed away in a local hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Gilbert entered DOC custody on March 29, 1989, from Multnomah County with an earliest release date of August 21, 2039. Gilbert was 76 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 14,700 individuals who are incarcerated in 14 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 Oregon's only maximum-security prison, located in Salem, and houses over 2,000 individuals. OSP is surrounded by a 25-foot-high wall with 10 towers. The facility has multiple special housing units including death row, 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, inmate work crews, and pre-release services. OSP was established in 1866 and, until 1959, was Oregon's only prison.

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December 9, 2019

Media contact: Allyson Hagen, 503-449-6457, allyson.hagen@dhsoha.state.or.us

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

Health Plan Quality Metrics Committee to meet December 12

What: The regular public meeting of the Oregon Health Authority’s Health Plan Quality Metrics Committee (HPQMC).

When: December 12, 12:30-3:30 p.m.

Where: Clackamas Community College Wilsonville Training Center Room 210, 29353 SW Town Center, Loop E., Wilsonville. The public also may join remotely through a webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/5441985918617611266 and listen-only conference line at 877-336-1828, access code 9657836.

Agenda: Welcome and roll call/introductions; review agenda and approve minutes; public comment 12:40-12:50; debrief November presentation on Oregon’s Health System Transformation; development of New and Innovative Measure Criteria; Discussion: OHA Health Equity definition; adjourn.

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

# # #

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

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

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

Salem, OR — Drafts of eight administrative rules for Oregon’s new Corporate Activity Tax (CAT) are now available to the public on the CAT page of the Department of Revenue’s website at www.oregon.gov/dor, agency officials said today.

“The taxpaying community has expressed significant interest in the CAT administrative rulemaking process,” said Nia Ray, director of the Oregon Department of Revenue.  “By prioritizing the creation of rules that the agency believes are most urgently needed, and sharing them as early as possible, we hope to minimize the risk of confusion and non-compliance.”

The Oregon Legislature created the Corporate Activity Tax in House Bills 3427 and 2164 during the 2019 session and gave the Department of Revenue the responsibility of writing administrative rules to implement the new law.

The agency has identified nearly three dozen issues which may need to be addressed with administrative rules. Those issues have been prioritized into three groups.

The first group of rules—those most business taxpayers and tax preparers have said they need to understand first—will be officially filed with the Secretary of State on Jan. 1, 2020. The other two groups will follow on Feb.1, 2020 and March 1, 2020.

The eight drafts posted on the agency’s website this week address:

• Estimated payments.
• Estimated payments for unitary groups.
• Underpayment of or delinquent estimated payments.
• What establishes nexus between a business and Oregon.
• What constitutes a unitary group for the CAT.
• Property brought into Oregon.
• The definition of agent.
• Filing extensions.

Sharing draft rules ahead of officially filing them allows business taxpayers and tax professionals time to review the rules and use them as guidance on how to proceed starting Jan. 1. It also offers them an additional opportunity to have input into the rules.

The agency previously engaged more than 800 stakeholders in the rulemaking process through a series of public meetings, video conferences and conference calls. Department officials said they will welcome additional feedback on the draft rules.  Those with comments can send feedback via email to ules.dOR@oregon.gov">catrules.dor@oregon.gov. (Please include “comments on draft rules” in the subject line.)

When officially filed with the Secretary of State all of the rules for the CAT will initially be adopted as temporary rules. Temporary rules are only good for 180 days. Starting April 1, 2020 the department will begin the process of adopting permanent rules for the CAT. That process involves public comment, giving stakeholders another chance to provide input.

The CAT is imposed on businesses for the privilege of doing business in Oregon. It applies to all business entities including those located inside and outside of Oregon. It is measured on a business’s commercial activity—the total amount a business realizes from commercial activity in Oregon.

Businesses with taxable commercial activity in excess of $1 million must pay the Corporate Activity Tax. The tax is $250 plus 0.57% of gross receipts greater than $1 million after subtractions.

More information about the Corporate Activity Tax is available on the Department of Revenue’s website. It includes a list of frequently asked questions and a form to sign-up for email updates on the CAT. Stakeholders can direct questions or comments about the CAT via email to cat.help.dor@oregon.gov or call 503-945-8005.

Visit www.oregon.gov/dor to get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make tax payments; call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish); 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon; or email questions.dor@oregon.gov. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), call 800-886-7204.

(Salem) – Oregonians who do not get health insurance through their employers and who do not qualify for the Oregon Health Plan have only until Sunday, Dec. 15, at 11:59 p.m. (Pacific) to sign up for coverage and get help paying for the coverage. Get started now by estimating your subsidy and reviewing the plans and prices at OregonHealthCare.gov/windowshop. 

“It’s a busy time of year, but don’t wait until the final hours. There are many health plans to choose from and you’re going to want time to shop for the right one,” said Chiqui Flowers, administrator of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. The Marketplace is a part of state government that helps connect Oregonians to coverage. It partners with HealthCare.gov, the website where people apply for federal subsidies.

Throughout Oregon, between seven and 41 plans are available, depending on your county. People who qualify for subsidies can use that financial help on any plan. Last year, 74 percent of Oregonians who enrolled through the Marketplace got subsidies. The average bottom-line premium for them was $140 per month.

Oregonians will see increased advertising in this final week of enrollment. Video and audio ads on Hulu, Spotify, broadcast TV, and other outlets highlight consumer testimonials and lay out how and why to enroll. Samples are online at http://bit.ly/subsidy-testimonials and http://bit.ly/coverage-and-subsidies.  

To get help filling out the subsidy application and reviewing health plan options, use the directory at OregonHealthCare.gov/gethelp, or call the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace at 1-855-268-3767 (toll-free).

###

The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, a part of state government, helps people get health insurance when they do not have job-based coverage, and do not qualify for the Oregon Health Plan or another program. The Marketplace is the state-level partner to HealthCare.gov, and a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS). For more information, go to OregonHealthCare.gov.

ASHLAND,Ore

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office Case # 19-25370

On December 7, 2019 at 1944 hours, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a motor vehicle crash in the 1200 block of Eagle Mill Rd. near Ashland, Oregon.

Responding deputies found two vehicles had been involved in a collision on the two lane road. Vehicle # 1 is a 2010 Toyota Prius. Vehicle #2 is a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado pickup. The pickup was on fire as emergency personnel arrived.

The driver of the Prius was found deceased at the scene. He is Anthony Tomas Panter, 27 years old, of Medford, Oregon.

The driver and passenger of the pickup were not injured. The driver of the pickup is Skyler Miller, 23 years of Ashland, Oregon.

The investigation into the crash is continuing by the inter-agency Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team (STAR).

ROSEBURG, Ore. – Over the weekend, deputies took several reports of mail theft from residential mailboxes, including packages.

On Sunday, December 9, 2019, around 9:30 am, while investigating the thefts, a deputy received a report of a female who was looking through mailboxes in the area of Doerner Road near Buffalo Lane. The deputy contacted 21 year-old Kayla Lee Alamprese of Roseburg and found her to be in possession of stolen mail and items.

Alamprese was arrested and taken to the Douglas County Jail where she was lodged on 13 counts of Mail Theft.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the public of some crime prevention tips so their holidays aren’t spoiled.

• Consider a residential locking mailbox or renting a post office box.
• Check your mail daily.
• If leaving the area, ask the postal service to hold your mail until you return. 
• Know when your packages will be arriving by monitoring tracking information available by the shipping company.
• Ask your trusted neighbor to watch for the delivery of packages and to hold them until you return home.
• If you are not home during the day, consider having your items delivered to your workplace or to a trusted neighbor. Some shipping companies also allow you to hold a package at their facility for pick-up.
• Elect for in-store pickup, if available.
• Require a signature to be obtained for the delivery to avoid the package being left on your doorstep.
• Be vigilant in your neighborhood. If you witness suspicious vehicles or people following delivery trucks, call police. A good description and license plates are very helpful to law enforcement.
• Install surveillance cameras around your home. The mere presence of cameras may deter a thief, but can also help law enforcement solve the crime.
• If sending a package to someone, let them know it’s coming so they can be on the lookout.

Following these simple tips can substantially reduce the risk that you will become a victim this holiday season.

RIDDLE, Ore. - A Riddle woman was arrested on Thursday, December 5, 2019, on multiple sex crimes against a juvenile male.

Deputies served a search warrant at the home of 36 year-old Rheta Leanne Melvin of Riddle last Thursday. Deputies had started an investigation after learning that Melvin had sexual contact with a teenage male. Melvin initially began messaging the juvenile and exchanging photographs of a sexual nature through a social media platform. Melvin and the juvenile made arrangements to meet and had sexual contact.

Melvin was arrested following the search warrant and lodged at the Douglas County Jail on the following charges:

• Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct
• Online Sexual Corruption of a Child – First Degree
• Sodomy 3
• Rape 3
• Contributing to the Sexual Delinquency of a Minor

Deputies believe there could be additional witnesses or juveniles who have had contact with Melvin. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Douglas County Sheriff's Office at 541-440-4471, referencing case #19-5559.

The volcanic eruption on New Zealand's White Island occurred with little warning. The 2010 U.S. census notes that more than 10 million people live in Washington and Oregon alone, and populations are increasing in areas at risk for volcanic hazards. 

Oregon Office of Emergeny Management Geologic Hazards Awareness Pprogram Coordinator Althea Rizzo is available today, December 9, between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to discuss the hazards produced by Cascade Range volcanoes and how to prepare for volcanic activity.

To arranged an interview, contact Paula Negele at 503-871-8689 or paula.negele@state.or.us.

SALEM, Ore. – Some 30,000 acres of privately owned forestland in Clackamas County could receive enhanced protections for water quality and wildlife habitat under a voluntary stewardship agreement being proposed by Seattle-based Port Blakely and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF). The agreement would be the largest of its kind in Oregon.

The proposed agreement can be viewed online at https://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Working/Pages/FPA.aspx

ODF is now accepting comments on the agreement and will do so until 5 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 9. Comments can be emailed to IVATEFORESTS.PUBLICCOMMENT@oregon.gov">PRIVATEFORESTS.PUBLICCOMMENT@oregon.gov.

An informational session about the agreement is scheduled on Wednesday, Jan. 8 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. followed by a public hearing from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. where in-person comments will be accepted by ODF. Both meetings will be at the Molalla Fire Station 82, located at 320 N. Molalla Ave. in Molalla.

Stewardship agreements are voluntary land management agreements available to landowners under Oregon’s Forest Practices Act rules. They were established by the Oregon Legislature in their current form through House Bill 2114-B in 2007.

Under a stewardship agreement, a landowner agrees to exceed ODF regulatory requirements designed to protect natural resources, such as water quality and fish and wildlife habitat, in exchange for long-term regulatory certainty under Forest Practices Act rules. About 13 such agreements are in place in Oregon but Port Blakely’s would cover the largest amount of forestland.

The proposed stewardship agreement contains forest management and conservation measures that provide enhanced protection for fish-bearing streams and aquatic water bodies. The measures also aim to create and sustain a mosaic of diverse habitats to meet the needs of many land-based wildlife species. The habitat requirements of 20 total species, both listed and unlisted by the Oregon State Department of Fish and Wildlife, are addressed, including breeding, foraging and dispersing habitats.

“Port Blakely’s forest management plan is intended to ensure that there are better habitat conditions over the long term,” said Private Forests Division Chief Kyle Abraham. “In exchange for that commitment to enhanced stewardship, the company gets long-term certainty about state forestry rules governing water quality and wildlife habitat.”

A few examples cited by Port Blakely include leaving more wildlife trees standing in a unit after harvest, leaving wider stream buffers, retaining upland habitat patches, retaining legacy features that are relics of past forests, and placing large woody debris into small and medium fish-bearing streams to enhance aquatic habitat.

“This agreement is a great example of Port Blakely’s approach to stewardship forestry, our commitment to demonstrate that forestlands are best managed for shared economic, environmental and community benefits,” said Court Stanley, President of US Forestry for Port Blakely. “It will allow us to continue to protect and enhance fish and wildlife habitat while also ensuring long-term regulatory certainty, and therefore economic stability, for our customers, employees, and family owners.”

The Oregon Legislature authorized ODF to enter into such voluntary stewardship agreements with landowners more than a decade ago. Under such agreements, landowners agreeing to follow a written forest management plan reviewed and approved by ODF will be allowed to continue operating under that plan for a set number of years, regardless of future regulatory changes. The length of the proposed Port Blakely agreement is 50 years.

A family-owned company since the early 20th century, Port Blakely has been involved in forestry in the Pacific Northwest for five generations. The company, owns 149,000 acres of forestland in both Oregon and Washington State as well as 93,000 acres in New Zealand. In parallel to the stewardship agreement, the company reports that it is also working with federal agencies to finalize a complementary Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) for this forestland. It would be the company’s third voluntary federal conservation agreement.  Since 2002 the company’s U.S. forestlands have been certified through the Sustainable Forest Initiative, earning recertification every year since.

                                                                                          # # #

On Friday, December 6, 2019 at approximately 10:03 P.M. Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a vehicle crash on Hwy 395 at the intersection of E Punkin Center Rd.  

The preliminary investigation revealed that a gold, 2009 Toyota Camry, operated by Michelle Dawn Fry (45) of Umatilla,  was traveling northbound on Hwy 395 and failed to stop at a red light and collided with a black 2006 KIA Spectra, operated by Elidio Salas De La Paz (77) of Hermiston, which was traveling southbound on Hwy 395 making a left hand turn onto E Punkin Center Rd. 

Salas De La Paz and his wife/passenger Alicia Salas (75) were both transported by ambulance to Good Shepherd Medical Center, Hermiston.  Alicia Salas was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Fry was lodged at the Umatilla County Jail on the charges of Manslaughter, DUII, Assault, and reckless driving.

OSP was assisted by ODOT, Umatilla County Fire District #1, Umatilla County Sheriff's Office and Hermiston Police Department.

INCIDENT DATE AND TIME: 12-06-19 @ 1354 hours

REPORTING DEPUTY: Deputy Valdez

On Friday December 6, 2019 at approximately 1354hrs, the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office received a report of an unoccupied vehicle located down an embankment on a forest service road south of Takilma by Christmas Tree Hunters. Josephine County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and confirmed the vehicle belonged to Missing Person, Russell Wilcox.  A deceased male was located approximately 100ft down the embankment, directly below the vehicle. Due to night conditions and very steep terrain, it was determined a recovery would be unsafe at this time. 

On Saturday December 7, 2019 Josephine County SAR – Rope Rescue/High Angle Team responded and recovered the deceased.  At approximately 0857hrs, the Sheriff’s Office positively identified the decedent as Russell Wilcox and was able to notify next of kin.  

Wilcox was reported missing on November 29, 2019 at 2021hrs after he was last seen driving on Waldo Road with Grants Pass as his destination.  After that report, Josephine County Search and Rescue had been actively searching for Mr. Wilcox with the assistance of IV Cert, IV Fire, Del Norte Co, Douglas Co, Siskiyou Co and Jackson Co.

(Salem, Ore.) – At least 19,000 Oregonians could lose government food assistance under a new federal rule finalized Thursday, December 5.

The rule will restrict states' ability to allow certain adults to receive benefits for more than three months in a three-year period if they aren't working or training at least 20 hours a week.

The change in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was approved despite more than 140,000 negative public comments. It is expected to affect 700,000 SNAP recipients nationally once it takes effect in April.

Oregon, like most states, has used waivers to extend benefits for longer than three months to a group of SNAP recipients known as "able-bodied adults without dependents" (ABAWD) if they live in areas with high unemployment and limited job opportunities. This group includes individuals ages 18 through 49 who don't have disabilities, don't have children or other dependents and are considered able to work.

In January 2020, Oregon has approved waivers for 31 counties for ABAWD work requirements, which will now expire on March 31, 2020. Federal changes to eligibility requirements for waivers will limit the areas in Oregon that meet the requirements starting April 1, 2020. As a result, this means only six counties may be eligible to receive the waiver.

“SNAP plays a critical role in addressing hunger and food insecurity,” said Fariborz Pakseresht, Department of Human Services director. “SNAP benefits assist Oregonians during difficult times to help make ends meet, in particular those working low-wage or who are between jobs. For those already facing difficult circumstances, this rule exacerbates those circumstances. It also will result in an increased burden on food banks and other community resources to fill the void.”

Areas requesting federal waivers must have unemployment rates at least 20 percent higher than the national rate but not less than 6 percent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates unemployment rates for people without a high school diploma or GED are often more than double average unemployment rates. Other groups that face additional obstacles when seeking steady employment include agricultural workers, veterans, former foster youth, formerly incarcerated people and rural residents with limited transportation.

In addition to administrating SNAP benefits, the Department of Human Services provides workforce development and training opportunities so Oregonians can secure a living-wage job. More information on those programs can be found here https://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ASSISTANCE/FOOD-BENEFITS/pages/index.aspx.

Missing Person Jeffrey Owen Boone Located

California Highway Patrol reports they have located Mr Boone in his vehicle near Burney, California. He is reported to be talking with officers on the scene.  Friends and family are arranging to bring him back to his home.

No further details are available at this time regarding Mr Boone.

Medford, ORE-

Media Release 120619

Search Warrant Leads to Arrests

On December 5th, 2019, detectives and deputies from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of Phoenix Police Department, executed a search warrant in the 100 block of Northridge Terrace, Medford, Oregon.

Investigators found evidence of multiple crimes involving burglaries and thefts in multiple locations in Jackson County.

Two suspects were arrested at the search warrant scene. They are:

Brandin Gregory McConkey, dob 082784, of the 100 block of Northridge Terrace Medford, OR and

Gina Marie Messenger, dob 092589, of the same address.

McConkey was lodged at Jackson County Jail on Charges of Burglary I, Aggravated Theft I, UUMV and UEMV.

Messenger was lodged on three charges of Identity Theft and one charge of Theft I.

Dec. 6, 2019

OHA Approves AllCare, Cascade Health Alliance and Umpqua Health Alliance for Full Five-Year Coordinated Care Contracts

The Oregon Health Authority is announcing that three CCOs which had received one-year contracts have met the necessary requirements to earn full five-year contracts to serve Oregon Health Plan members for 2020-2024: AllCare CCO, Cascade Health Alliance, and Umpqua Health Alliance. Services for the new CCO contracts begin January 1, 2020. These contracts have been referred to as "CCO 2.0."

In July OHA announced its intent to award 15 organizations with contracts to serve as coordinated care organizations for OHP, four of which were for one year. These four applicants did not show enough evidence in their applications to be awarded full five-year contracts. Instead they initially received a one-year contract. OHA required the four CCOs to show evidence they had policies, procedures and plans in place to meet the goals of CCO 2.0 OHA provided technical support to help the plans.

Yamhill Community Care (YCC), the remaining CCO with a one-year contract, continues to make good progress toward resolving its remediation plan. OHA and YCC are working together to resolve the few remaining items in their remediation plan this month.

Contract awardees had to demonstrate they can meet the goals of CCO 2.0 to improve care coordination, transform service delivery, engage local communities, improve clinical care, have effective and efficient business processes, and demonstrate financial stability.

"I appreciate the steps AllCare, Cascade Health Alliance and Umpqua Health Alliance have taken to show they are ready to meet the higher bar we’ve set in CCO 2.0," OHA Director Patrick Allen said. "We recognize that CCOs play a vital in their communities. We look forward to partnering with these three CCOs over the next five years to improve the lives of OHP members and make health care more affordable in the communities these CCOs serve."

About coordinated care organizations: Oregon first established CCOs in 2012 to transform health care delivery in the state. CCOs bring together physical, behavioral, and oral health providers to coordinate care for people on the Oregon Health Plan. They improve health and reduce costs by providing more coordinated, flexible and innovative services. CCOs are rewarded for achieving specific health outcomes and quality measures.

SALEM, Ore. — The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee will meet Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 9:30 a.m. at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters in Salem. Items on the committee’s agenda include:

• Review and input on the draft revised Western Oregon State Forest Management Plan
• Board of Forestry Topic: Draft 2020-21 State Forests Division Work Plan

The meeting agenda and materials are posted on the department’s website at http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Board/Pages/FTLAC.aspx.

The meeting will be held in the Tillamook Room, Building C, 2600 State St., Salem. This meeting is open to the public. Questions about accessibility or special accommodations can be directed to the Oregon Department of Forestry at least 48 hours prior to the meeting at 503-945-7200.

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

Expect minor delays on and around Table Rock Road on Saturday, December 7 from noon to 12:30PM.  A large number of motorcyclists will participate in the 39th Annual Toy Run which travels from Touvelle Lodge near Modoc Road southward into Medford near Highway 99.  Southbound Table Rock Road and side street traffic will be stopped as the motorcade passes.

For Immediate Release                                        

December 5, 2019

Contact:       Mona Riesterer
                    (503) 378-2431

Notice of Teleconference Meeting

The Executive Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a teleconference meeting at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 10, 2019

A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by calling the contact listed above. 

The teleconference information is: 

Dial in: (877) 873-8017 Access Code: 8191185

For further information, please contact Mona Riesterer at (503) 373-2431 or at iesterer@state.or.us">MonaRiesterer@state.or.us 

Chair’s Report and Administrative Announcement

“This is a public meeting subject to the public meeting law which will be tape recorded.”

1.  Minutes of February 28, 2018

2.  Executive Session

The Executive Committee will hold an executive session to consider exempt public records. The executive session is  being held pursuant to ORS 162.660(2)(f).

3.  Beers, Tyler DPSST #58455; Department of Corrections

4.  Saulo, Caleb DPSST #59701 – Appeal of Academy Dismissal; Warm Springs Police Department.

5.  Next Meeting – TBD – as needed.

Requires a vote by the Committee

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is accepting public comments on a proposed change to Oregon Administrative Rule language describing how the agency bundles free camping days under their Special Access Pass program. The program is offered to foster and adoptive foster families, and veterans with a service-connected disability. It provides up to 14 days of free overnight camping to passholders at any Oregon State Park.

Under the proposed rule change, the free camping days would move from up to 14 days within a rolling 30-day period to up to 14 days within a calendar month. The change is intended to make it easier for passholders to track their available days and plan their camping trips.

OPRD will accept public comments on the proposed change through 5 p.m. Jan. 6, 2020. Comments can be made online, in writing or via email:

• Online: oregon.gov/oprd/RULES/Pages/Rulemaking%20Notices.aspx
• In writing: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, attn. Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301
• Email: OPRD.publiccomment@oregon.gov

After reviewing public comments, OPRD staff will present a final recommended rule for consideration to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission at its February 2020 business meeting.

The full text of the proposed change is available online: oregon.gov/oprd/RULES/Pages/Rulemaking%20Notices.aspx

Learn more about the pass program for veterans with a service-connected disability online. 

Learn more about the pass program for foster and adoptive foster families online.

December 5, 2019

Northwest Regional Newborn Bloodspot Screening Advisory Board Workgroup meets December 12

What: A public meeting of the Northwest Regional Newborn Bloodspot Screening (NWRNBS) Advisory Board Workgroup.

Agenda: Welcome, chair and vice-chair roles and responsibilities, feedback mechanism for board members, wrap-up and next steps.

When: Thursday, Dec. 12, 3-5 p.m.

Where: Oregon State Public Health Laboratory, Suite 100, 7202 NE Evergreen Parkway, Hillsboro. Please check in at the front desk and bring a photo ID. Also available remotely by telephone at 888-337-0215, access code 2001129#.

Background: The Northwest Regional Newborn Bloodspot Screening (NWRNBS) Program screens newborns for endocrine, hemoglobin, cystic fibrosis, immunodeficiency and metabolic disorders that may not be clinically evident in the first few days or weeks of life. Detecting these conditions early allows the infant to be referred for diagnosis and appropriate treatment to prevent death or disability. For more information, visit the program's webpage at http://www.healthoregon.org/nbs.

# # #

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

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

If you need help or have questions, please contact Christianne Biggs at 503-693-4172, 711 TTY or istianne.BIGGS@dhsoha.state.or.us">christianne.biggs@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Media contact: Delia Hernández, 503-422-7179, PHD.Communications@state.or.us

The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public's help in locating the person(s) responsible for the unlawful killing and waste of a 4X5 bull elk and a cow elk in Tillamook County.

On Wednesday, December 4, 2019, Tillamook OSP Fish and Wildlife Troopers were dispatched to a report of a deceased bull elk. The deceased bull elk was located approximately 3 miles up Kansas Creek Road in an area known as Hembre Ridge.  

The bull elk was killed using a rifle and left to waste with no meat removed.  Further investigation led to the discovery of a deceased cow elk nearby.  Neither elk was salvageable and it appeared both elk had been shot within the past few days.

OSP is asking anyone who was in the area or anyone who may have information on the person(s) responsible to call the TIP line at 1-800-452-7888, or OSP (677) and refer information to Trooper Charles Reeder.  Information can also be sent by email to TIP@state.or.us.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators 

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

Preference Point Rewards:

5 Points-Bighorn Sheep

5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points-Moose

5 Points-Wolf

4 Points-Elk

4 Points-Deer

4 Points-Antelope

4 Points-Bear

4 Points-Cougar

Or the Oregon Hunters Association TIP reward fund also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat, Moose, Elk, Deer, Antelope, Bear, Cougar, Wolf, Upland Birds, Waterfowl, Furbearers, Game Fish and Shellfish.  Cash rewards can also be awarded for turning in people who destroy habitat, illegally obtain licenses/tags and for the unlawful lending/borrowing of big game tags.

CASH REWARDS:

$1,000 Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat and Moose 
$500 Elk, Deer and Antelope 
$300 Bear, Cougar and Wolf 
$300 Habitat Destruction

$200 Illegally Obtaining License/Tag(s)

$200 Unlawful Lend/Borrow Big Game Tags(s) 
$100 Upland Birds and Waterfowl 
$100 Furbearers 

$100 Game Fish and Shellfish 

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

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

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

Boise, Idaho – The United States is sending 21 wildland fire personnel from the Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Forest Service to assist with ongoing wildfire suppression efforts in Australia. Australia is experiencing early and significant fire activity, particularly in the states of New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria. Extended drought combined with hot and dry weather conditions have elevated wildfire risk, and fire activity is expected to continue for the next several months.

“This exchange demonstrates the value of our arrangement for mutual wildland fire support with Australia.  It’s a valuable tool for both countries as we face increasingly complex and challenging fires,” said Department of the Interior’s Office of Wildland Fire Director Jeff Rupert. “The interagency team of professionals will share expertise from managing wildland fire under a variety of locations and conditions in the U.S., many of which are similar to what they’ll encounter in Australia.”

Based on the current situation in Australia, the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council is requesting 21 qualified U.S. fire personnel to assist with wildfire and aviation management. The BLM is sending six personnel, including two interagency resource representatives on behalf of the National Interagency Fire Center located in Boise, Idaho. The NPS is sending two people, the BIA is sending one person, the FWS is sending one person, and the USFS is sending 11 personnel. The employees, coming from Alaska, Nevada, Montana, Colorado, Arizona, Idaho, Utah, California, Oregon, Hawaii, and Virginia, will be departing for Australia from the San Francisco International Airport on Thursday, December 5. 

Fires that started to burn in August have continued uninterrupted with large areas of both New South Wales and Queensland burned, multiple property losses, and, sadly, fatalities. Fire conditions continue to challenge in New South Wales and Queensland, while new fires are causing concern further south in Victoria. Fire conditions in Australia are extreme due to an extended drought, hot temperatures, and relative humidity in the single digits. 

“We’re sending a contingent from several federal agencies that reflects decades of fire management experience,” said U.S. Forest Service Fire Director Shawna Legarza. “We face many of the same firefighting challenges in each country. We’ve utilized their expertise in the past and welcome the opportunity to reciprocate.”

The last fire assistance between the two countries was in August of 2018 when 138 Australian and New Zealand wildfire management personnel were sent to the U.S. for almost 30 days to assist with wildfire suppression efforts in Northern California and the Northwest. The Australian and New Zealand personnel filled critical needs during the peak of the western fire season for mid-level fireline management, heavy equipment, helicopter operations, and structure protection. 

 The National Multi-Agency Coordinating Group is working with the National Interagency Coordination Center to mobilize resources and distribute the request across interagency partners. The last time the U.S sent firefighters to Australia was in 2010.  

###

The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), located in Boise, Idaho, is the nation's support center for wildland firefighting. Eight different agencies and organizations are part of NIFC including, the Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, National Weather Service, U.S. Fire Administration, and the National Association of State Foresters.

Want to give your favorite businesses and individuals a chance to be honored for their impact on our community? At the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce’s 99th Annual Awards Gala, you can!   Nominations are currently open for Gala 2020. This Hollywood-style awards show is scheduled for January 11th, 2020 at the Ross Ragland Theater.

Nominations: bit.ly/Gala2020N

Tickets & Event Info: bit.ly/Gala2020T

We are currently accepting nominations for the following awards:

• Big Idea Innovation Award (sponsored by Klamath Community College Small Business Development Center)
• Environmental Leadership Award (sponsored by Waste Management)
• Commitment to Community Award (sponsored by Ken’s Body and Paint)
• Best Place to Work (2 Categories) (sponsored by Klamath Basin Home Builders Association)
• Spirit of Entrepreneurism (For Profit Business & Civil/Social categories) (sponsored by Klamath IDEA)
• Lifetime Achievement
• Pathfinder Award

Each year the Chamber presents awards at the annual gala including the Big Idea Innovation Award, awarded to an organization in any industry that employs new ideas or approaches to doing business; the Commitment to Community Award, awarded to any organization in any industry that demonstrates a successful approach to corporate social responsibility and can show a positive impact on the community; Lifetime Achievement, awarded to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional business achievement and outstanding commitment to Klamath’s business community over their lifetime; and the Pathfinder Award, awarded to presidents, principals or chief executive officers for devoting time and energy to strengthen and transform the organization that they lead. For full information about all awards and to make nominations, please give us a call or visit bit.ly/Gala2020N

Nominate now and help give your favorite business or community leader the recognition they deserve.

The fun doesn’t end with awards! Following the awards ceremony, the Chamber will be hosting a Casino Night! This afterparty will be complete with Blackjack, professional dealers, food, drinks and much more. Stay afterwards and have some fun with your local business community.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please call us at (541) 884-5193 or visit the event page at bit.ly/Gala2020T.

Nominations can be submitted electronically by visiting bit.ly/Gala2020N, via email at: reception@klamath.org, or via mail at 205 Riverside Drive, Suite A, Klamath Falls, OR 97601.

The deadline for nominations is December 31st, 2019. Tickets to the event are on sale now.

(Springfield, Ore.) Dec. 5, 2019— The PacificSource Foundation for Health Improvement recently committed $262,000 in grant funding to support nine nonprofit organizations based in Oregon, Montana, Washington, and Idaho.

“Working in partnership to improve community health is a shared mission of PacificSource and our Foundation, and we are pleased to announce this latest round of funding to these deserving nonprofits,” said Marian Blankenship, executive director of PacificSource’s Foundation for Health Improvement.

The funding will span from one to two years for the following nonprofits:

Oregon:

• Compass House Inc. - One-year grant of $10,000 in support of their Wellness Program, a holistic non-clinical program aimed at improving the quality of life and combating early mortality rates in adults living with mental illness.

• SPOON – One-year grant of $25,000 in support of the Nourishing Oregon’s Foster Children project, which provides trauma-informed training and resources for foster parents and child welfare workers so that they can support the complex nutritional and feeding needs of the foster children in their care.

• HIV Alliance – Two-year grant of $50,000 in support of a comprehensive opioid response in Lane, Douglas, Marion, and Josephine counties. This work will focus on at-risk populations including LGBTQ+ identified people, people with disabilities, people experiencing poverty, and rural populations with less access to support services.

• Daisy CHAIN –Two-year grant of $50,000 to support the expansion and training of a team that is serving a growing number of culturally specific families throughout their programs, including the home visiting program, nursing nook, prenatal services and more.

Montana:

• Missoula Aging Services – One-year grant of $25,000 in support of their Care Transitions Program, an innovative healthcare model that works with local hospitals and clinics to prevent high utilization by older adults through evidence-based interventions that ensure a successful transition from hospitals to home.

• Ronan School District – One year grant of $5000 to support a Native Plant Garden, which aims to build food sovereignty, positive relationships, and improved communication between a highly diverse student and parent population and the educators.

Idaho:

• Family Advocates – Two-year grant of $60,000 to support their Family Strengthening Programs, which aims to prevent child abuse and neglect while mitigating the impacts of adverse childhood experiences.

• Interlink Volunteer Caregivers – One-year grant of $7749 to help provide transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals facing transportation as a barrier to receiving vital healthcare.

Washington:

• Free Clinic of Southwest Washington – One-year grant of $30,000 in support of Community Health Workers as care extenders for diabetic patients. This CHW position will help to foster trust between patients and the medical providers as they learn about and manage their diabetes.

In addition to these new grants, the PacificSource Foundation made multi-year installments for Adelante Mujeres, Children’s Home Society, and all of the clinics participating in the Healthcare Access Partner’s Program (HcAP).

About PacificSource Foundation for Health Improvement 

Founded in 1992, the PacficSource Foundation for Health Improvement is an expression of our commitment to our communities. Its mission is to improve community health through the touchstones of better health, better care, and lower healthcare costs. The Foundation’s grants and partnerships focus on improving access to healthcare for vulnerable populations and promoting health excellence via innovative care and community health and wellness programs. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/2yK92qF

About PacificSource Health Plans 

PacificSource Health Plans is an independent, regional, not-for-profit community health plan serving the Northwest. Founded in 1933, PacificSource is based in Springfield with local offices throughout Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana. The PacificSource family of companies employs 1,100 people, serves more than 320,000 individuals, and has 3,900 employer clients throughout the Northwest. For more information visit PacificSource.com.

The holidays are a time for friends, family, and co-workers to come together in celebration. Whether you’re at an office party, a family member’s home, or out at the bar, it’s essential you make the lifesaving choice to drive sober when the party ends.

In the month of November the Medford Police Department arrested forty three individuals for driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII). Officers also issued twelve citations for operating a motor vehicle while using a mobile electronic device.

MPD takes impaired and distracted driving very seriously and will continue to focus our efforts to stop and arrest impaired drivers to help save lives and keep the roadways safe.

Alcohol impaired driving fatalities account for nearly one third of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. In 2018, 10,511 people died as a result of alcohol impaired crashes. Drugged driving is also becoming a major problem. Whether it’s alcohol or other drugs, impaired driving is impaired driving.

To help spread the message about the dangers of impaired and distracted driving, MPD is partnering with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These officers will be looking for drivers impaired by drugs and alcohol as well as watching for drivers using their cell phones.

As you head out to enjoy the holiday festivities, remember: drive sober, ditch the distractions, and keep your eyes on the road.

(Salem) – Time is running out for people who want health insurance in 2020 but do not get coverage through their job or the Oregon Health Plan. Sunday, Dec. 15, is the last day to enroll in a health plan through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, our state’s pathway to subsidized coverage.

About 100,000 uninsured Oregonians may be eligible for help paying for their health insurance, but signups in Oregon are lagging so far this year. To get coverage or re-enroll in a plan, follow these five tips:

Tip No. 1: Get a quick estimate of your subsidy and bottom-line cost of coverage. Go to OregonHealthCare.gov/windowshop to see the size of the subsidy you may qualify for, and what your plan may cost once that financial assistance is factored in. People whose incomes are just above the limit for the Oregon Health Plan can find plans costing them as little as $1 per month, when they meet all eligibility requirements.

Tip No. 2: Get free, local help enrolling. Licensed insurance agents and certified community partners are ready to help you complete the application for subsidies, and sort through plan options. Choose an agent or partner in the directory at OregonHealthCare.gov/gethelp, or call the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace at 1-855-268-3767 (toll-free).

Tip No. 3: Get to know the new benefits in some plans. Consumers have reported that large deductibles on the lowest-priced plans sometimes keep them from getting care. In response, the state redesigned some plans to allow more services before the plan’s deductible is met. For the first time, plans with the words "standard bronze" in their name all cover primary care office visits for a flat $45 co-pay, even when the plan's $7,900 deductible has not been met. This plan type is among the options with a net cost of $1 per month for single people making about $19,000 a year and meeting a few other qualifications.

Tip No. 4: Hear from people who have gotten subsidies through the Marketplace. Health plan specifics matter, but so does the human impact of having coverage you can afford. If you need a two-minute break from insurance details, listen online to other Oregonians describe their experience with subsidized coverage at http://bit.ly/subsidy-testimonials.
 
Tip No. 5: Don’t miss the deadline. The deadline to enroll is Sunday, Dec. 15. If you miss it, you may go a year without health insurance. Avoid the risk and get started at OregonHealthCare.gov.

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The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, a part of state government, helps people get health insurance when they do not have job-based coverage, and do not qualify for the Oregon Health Plan or another program. The Marketplace is the state-level partner to HealthCare.gov, and a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS). For more information, go to OregonHealthCare.gov.

It’s National Tax Security Awareness Week and the Oregon Department of Revenue and the IRS are reminding taxpayers to be on the lookout for money scams and identity theft.

Phishing scams

As the holiday season approaches, taxpayers need to watch out for phishing scams in the deluge of holiday email messages coming from retailers and others. According to the IRS, more than 90 percent of all data thefts begin with an email phishing scam.

Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself from phishing scams:

• First, the most common way thieves steal identities is simply by asking for it. Their favorite tactic is a phishing email. Phishing emails “bait” users into opening them. They pose as a trusted company such as a bank, a favorite retailer, or even a tax professional.
• Second, learn to recognize and avoid these phishing emails. The scams tell an urgent story—like there’s a problem with your account or your order. The message then instructs the receiver to open an embedded link or download an attachment.
• Third, don’t take the bait. The email link may send users to a familiar website to log in, but the username and password goes to the thieves. Or, the scam suggests users open an attachment, which secretly downloads malicious software. Either method works for identity thieves.

These scam emails can show up in personal inboxes or even a work inbox, endangering the entire organization. Mobile phone users are especially prone to responding more than those working on a laptop or desktop computer. If at home, just delete the email. If at work, follow your organization’s guidance on handling the email.

Identity theft

With millions of people logging in to websites and online accounts this holiday season, Revenue and the IRS remind taxpayers that common mistakes can increase their risk of having sensitive financial and tax data stolen by identity thieves.

Using strong passwords and keeping them secure are critical steps to preventing thieves from stealing identities, money, or other information to file a fraudulent tax return.

In recent years, cybersecurity experts’ recommendations on what constitutes a strong password have changed. They now suggest people use word phrases that are easy to remember rather than random letters, characters, and numbers that can’t be easily recalled.

For example, experts previously suggested something like “PXro#)30” but now suggest a longer phrase, such as “SomethingYouCanRemember@30.” By using a phrase, users don’t have to write down their password and expose it to additional risk. Also, people may be more willing to use strong, longer passwords if it’s a phrase, rather than random characters that are harder to remember.

Protecting access to digital devices is so critical that some now feature fingerprint or facial recognition technology, but passwords remain common for many people.

Given the sensitivity of many of these online accounts, people should consider these password tips to protect devices or online accounts:

• Use a minimum of eight characters; longer is better.
• Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols in password phrases, i.e., UsePasswordPhrase@30.
• Avoid personal information or common passwords; use phrases instead.
• Change default or temporary passwords that come with accounts or devices.
• Don’t reuse or update passwords. For example, changing Bgood!17 to Bgood!18 is not good enough; use unique usernames and passwords for accounts and devices.
• Don’t use email addresses as usernames if that is an option.
• Store any password list in a secure location, such as a safe or locked file cabinet.
• Don’t disclose passwords to anyone for any reason.
• When available, a password manager program can help track passwords for numerous accounts.

Whenever it’s an option for a password-protected account, users also should opt for a multi-factor authentication process. Many email providers, financial institutions, and social media sites now offer customers two-factor authentication protections.

Two-factor authentication helps by adding an extra layer of protection. Often this means the user must enter their credentials (username and password) plus another step, such as entering a security code sent via text to a mobile phone. Another example is confirming “yes” to a text to the phone that users are accessing the account on.

The idea behind multi-factor authentication is that a thief may be able to steal usernames and passwords, but it’s highly unlikely they also would have access to the mobile phone to receive a security code or confirmation to complete the log-in process.

For more information on protecting yourself or what to do if you’re a victim of identity theft, visit:

• www.irs.gov
• www.consumer.ftc.gov
• www.identitytheft.gov

Visit www.oregon.gov/dor to get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make tax payments. For other information or questions, call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish), 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon, or email questions.dor@oregon.gov. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), call 800-886-7204.

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On Wednesday, December 4, 2019 at approximately 8:40 P.M. Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two vehicle crash on Hwy 730 near milepost 202.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a 1999 Ford F-150 PU was westbound on Hwy 730 when for unknown reasons crossed into the eastbound lane and collided with a 2011 Volvo Semi Truck with flatbed trailer loaded with metal products, operated by Steven Unruh (64) from Nampa. ID.

The operator of the Ford F-150 sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. Name will be released after next of kin has been notified.

Unruh was transported to Good Shepherd Medical Center in Hermiston.

Hwy 730 was closed for approximately 4 hours.

OSP was assisted by Umatilla Fire District #1 and ODOT

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) invites Oregonians outdoors on New Year’s Day for the annual First Day Hikes event. Visitors can choose from 37 hikes in 31 parks across the state. All hikes will be guided by a park ranger or volunteer who will share stories about the park’s history, geology, wildlife and plants. 

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

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

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

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

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

PORTLAND

• L.L. Stub Stewart State Park: 10 a.m., meet at Clayhill horse staging area.
• Milo McIver State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the Maple Ridge Trailhead in the Lower Boat Launch parking lot.
• Tryon Creek State Park: 9 a.m., meet at the nature center.

COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE

• Deschutes River State Recreation Area: 9 a.m., meet at Oregon Trail kiosk.
• Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail: 1 p.m., meet at the Mark O. Hatfield East trailhead in the Mossier Twin Tunnels parking lot.

WILLAMETTE VALLEY/CASCADES

• Champoeg State Heritage Area: 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., meet at the visitor center.
• Dexter State Recreation Site: 9 a.m., meet at the Dexter Disc Golf course.
• Elijah Bristow State Park: noon, meet at the equestrian parking area for horse riding (bring your own horse.)
• Silver Falls State Park: 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m., meet at South Falls Lodge porch.
• Willamette Mission State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the Wheatland Ferry.

COAST

• Bullards Beach State Park: 1 p.m., meet at the meeting hall.
• Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint: noon, meet in the Cape Meares parking lot.
• Crissey Field State Recreation Site: 11 a.m., meet at the welcome center.
• Fort Stevens State Park: 10 a.m., meet in the Battery Russell parking lot.
• Humbug Mountain State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the Humbug Mountain trailhead.
• Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park: 10 a.m., meet in the group camp parking lot.
• Oswald West State Park: 8 a.m., meet at the Cape Falcon trailhead.
• Seal Rock State Recreation Site: 9:30 a.m., meet in the Seal Rock parking lot.
• Umpqua Lighthouse State Park: 1 p.m., meet at Lake Marie Day-use area.
• William M. Tugman State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the Eel Lake boat ramp.

SOUTHERN OREGON

• Collier Memorial State Park: 9 a.m., meet at the Logging Museum.
• Golden State Heritage Site: 1 p.m., meet in the Historic Church.
• Illinois River Forks State Park: 11 a.m., meet at the West Fork trailhead.
• Joseph H. Stewart State Recreation Area: 9 a.m., meet at the group camp.
• TouVelle State Park: 11 a.m., meet at the day-use area.
• Valley of the Rogue State Park: 1 p.m., meet at the amphitheater. 1 p.m., meet at Del Rio Vineyards (bring your own bike.) 1 p.m., meet at Rogue River Bridge in the city of Rogue River (bring your own bike.)

EASTERN/CENTRAL OREGON

• Cottonwood Canyon State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the experience center.
• Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area: 11 a.m., meet at the interpretive kiosk (bring your own snowshoes).
• LaPine State Park: 11 a.m., meet at the meeting hall in the south loop.
• Smith Rock State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the welcome center.
• Wallowa Lake State Park: 10 a.m., meet in the Group Camp A parking lot.

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