SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon Department of the State Fire Marshal deployed an incident management team to North Carolina Thursday morning to help with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The storm caused catastrophic flooding to the western side of the state and cut off many communities from vital services. The North Carolina Emergency Operations Center says 90 people are still missing and many communities remain inaccessible.

The team is led by Incident Commander Ian Yocum and includes an operations section chief, plans section chief, and three logistics section chiefs. The six-person team will be working in Yancey County, northeast of Asheville. 

“I want to thank those who are headed to North Carolina to help in their time of need. We certainly understand how critical help can be when communities are devastated by a disaster on such a wide scale,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “I’ve been in contact with North Carolina State Fire Marshal Bryan Taylor who is appreciative of Oregon’s support. We can all be proud to work alongside those who continue to answer the call for assistance, especially after the many wildfire deployments our teams were on this summer.”

The Oregon State Fire Marshal incident management teams are no stranger to helping with hurricane recovery efforts. In 2022, a team, also led by Yocum, was deployed to Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.

The team will be deployed to North Carolina until October 30 and will return to Oregon the next day. The Oregon State Fire Marshal has three all-hazard incident management teams trained in emergency response and recovery. The teams typically respond to wildfire and are equipped to handle a wide range of disasters. Learn more about the teams here.

The team was ordered through the Oregon Department of Emergency Management and the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, the nation’s all hazard national mutual aid system. The compact provides help during governor-declared emergencies or disasters by allowing states to quickly send personnel, equipment, and supplies to support response and recovery efforts in other states.

Malheur County, Ore 20 Oct 24- On Sunday, October 20, 2024, at 9:34 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 84, near milepost 373, in Malheur County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Traci Nichole Dripps (55) of Nampa (ID), was travelling eastbound in the westbound lanes when it struck a westbound Ford F-350, operated by Mason Allen Orme (32) of Huntington, head-on.

Oregon State Police had received a driving complaint about the wrong way driver approximately six minutes before the crash occurred and law enforcement was en route at the time of the crash.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Dripps) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford (Orme) was life flighted to an area hospital with serious injuries.

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by Ontario Fire, Ontario Police Department, Malheur County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT.

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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. 

Umatilla County, Ore 19 Oct 24- On Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 9:15 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Interstate 84, near milepost 178, in Umatilla County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Ford F150, operated by Christopher Ralph Knowles (56) of Cherry Valley (AR), left the eastbound lanes for unknown reasons, crossed the grass median and westbound lanes before striking a bridge support. The collision caused the vehicle to become engulfed in flames.

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

The highway was impacted for approximately 3.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by Umatilla County Fire District 1 and ODOT.

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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: The deceased suspect is identified as Francisco Campos (36) of Woodburn (OR).

Lincoln County, OR 19 Oct 24- Oregon State Police investigating deadly use of force in Lincoln County.

On Saturday, October 19^th,2024, at approximately 12:22 p.m., the Lincoln City Police Department responded to report of a domestic disturbance between a male and female at the Motel 6, located at 3517 NW Highway 101, in Lincoln City, OR. Officers responded to the motel, identified the suspect, and discovered outstanding warrants for his arrest. The occupants of the room also appeared to be associated with a stolen vehicle located in the parking lot of the hotel. 

At approximately 13:04 p.m., Lincoln City Police officers contacted the male suspect in the hotel room and he was noncompliant. During the contact, the suspect had two firearms in his waistband which he reached for and was shot by officers.

First aid was rendered at the scene and the suspect was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The suspect's identification has not been released due to difficulties in making next of kin notification.

Per the Lincoln County Deadly Force Response Plan under Senate Bill 111, the Lincoln County Major Crime Team was activated for the investigation and the Oregon State Police has taken the role of the lead investigating agency. The Oregon State Police is being assisted by the Newport Police Department, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln City Police Department, the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office, and the Lincoln County Medical Examiner’s Office.

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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. 

Jackson County, Ore 17 Oct 24- On Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 2:58 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy 140, near milepost 31, in Jackson County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Chevrolet Colorado, operated by Fabiola Salcedo (42) of Dorris (CA), lost control and spun into the westbound lane where it was struck by a westbound Subaru Forester, operated by Danny Ray Ebert (74) of La Pine, on the passenger side.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Salcedo) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Subaru ( D. Ebert) and passenger, Phyllis Ann Ebert (77) of La Pine, both suffered minor to serious injuries and were transported to an area hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately 2.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is believed to be related to roadway conditions and speed.

OSP was assisted by Jackson County Fire District 3, Lakecreek Fire Department, and ODOT.

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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. 

Klamath County, Ore 17 Oct 24- On Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 9:33 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Hwy 97, near milepost 272, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated southbound Freightliner and trailer, operated by Usman Ahmad (36) of Sacramento (CA), struck a pedestrian, Christian Lee Cleven Corwin (38) of Klamath Falls, who entered the lane of travel.

The pedestrian (Cleven Corwin) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Freightliner (Ahmad) was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Klamath County Fire District 1, Klamath Falls Police Department, and ODOT.

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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
A suspect in this case has been identified; no further tips are needed. We appreciate the public's assistance and thank everyone who turned in tips.

NORTHEAST OREGON, 11 Oct. 2024—The Oregon State Police Fish & Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help to identify a suspected poacher. The individual was hunting in Northeast Oregon over the Labor Day weekend and is believed to be associated with a white late-model GMC or Chevy full-size, four-door pickup truck with tinted windows. 

The suspect shot a mature bull elk with archery equipment and began recovering the meat. However, when an Oregon State Trooper arrived in the area, the individual left the area without taking any portion of the elk, leaving all the meat and the antlers behind. The subject did not return while troopers were on scene for several hours salvaging what they could of the meat.

Potential charges include failing to retrieve edible portions of wildlife and waste of wildlife. Anyone with information is asked to contact Sr. Trooper Kris Davis via the TIP line at 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Tips may also be submitted to TIP@osp.oregon.gov.  Individuals with information may remain anonymous. 

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators 

The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration among the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board. 

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuing 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: Pronghorn Antelope
4 Points: Bear
4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling licenses or tags, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:
$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose 
$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope 
$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$300 Habitat destruction 
$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags
$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)
$200 Game Fish & Shellfish
$200 Game Birds or Furbearers
$200 Spotlighting
$200 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:
$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey
$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox
$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:
$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity: 
TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)
TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
For more information visit: www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/fw/Pages/tip.aspx

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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.

SALEM COUNTY, Ore. 16 Oct. 2024 – There's a new furry recruit at Oregon State Police. She's excited to join her handler on Oregon's highways, and we need your help to give her an official name that is paw-some! 

Oregon youth, kindergarten through 5th grade, send in your ulti-mutt name for our fur-ever friend. The winning entry will be recognized with a round of a-paws and other fun prizes. 

Contest Rules:  

• Complete an entry form between Oct. 17-27, 2024.
  • https://bit.ly/OSP_K9Contest
• The contest is open to Oregon youth from kindergarten through 5^th grade. 
• One entry per student.
• Five names from the submitted entries will be selected to move forward for statewide voting.
• The student with the winning name entry will get to meet the K-9 and other recognition from OSP. 
• The school with the most participants will also be recognized by OSP. 

Who's ready fur some treats!

Learn more about our new K-9: https://youtu.be/3naO1tVKz2M

The K-9 is a two-year-old female Belgian Malinois from Blackwood Canine who is certified through the Oregon Police K-9 Association as a drug detection dog. She and her handler, Sr. Trooper Scott Show, are assigned to the Albany Patrol Office for drug detection along Interstate 5 and throughout the state.  

Sr. Trooper Show said, “I’m excited to have Oregon youth involved in naming our K-9. Kids come up with the best animal names and I’ll be happy with whatever they choose.” 

The contest opens at noon on Oct. 17, 2024, and closes at 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 27, 2024. Entries must be received via OSP’s online entry form: https://bit.ly/OSP_K9Contest. 

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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. Name Our K-9 Contest

Baker County, Ore 16 Oct 24- On Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at 9:20 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Interstate 84, near milepost 310, in Baker County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Toyota T100, operated by Zachary Edward Schuringa (34) of Denver (CO), lost control, overcorrected into the median, and rolled before coming to rest. A passenger, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected from the vehicle during the rolling event.

The operator of the Toyota (Schuringa) was seriously injured and transported to an area hospital.

The passenger, Charlie Ann McDowell (29) of Lakewood (CO), was declared deceased at the scene.

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by ODOT.

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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. 

Tillamook County, Ore 16 Oct 24- Oregon State Police seeking public assistance in locating missing Vancouver (WA) man.

On Monday, October 7, 2024, Daniel Berry Neasbit (60) was reported missing to Oregon State Police. He was living out of his vehicle at the time of his disappearance. Neasbit's vehicle, a Blue Dodge Dakota bearing Washington license plate B82634R, was located on Hwy 101 near 31205 Hwy 101 N with a flat tire. He was not located with his vehicle.

Neasbit was last seen on October 2nd in the Nehalem area and last spoken to on October 3rd. Neasbit is described as a 60 year old male with brown hair, blue eyes and approximately 5'6" and 155 pounds. He may be clean shaven or have a grey beard about an inch long. 

Any person with information relating to Neasbit's whereabouts are asked to contact the Oregon State Police at 503-375-3555 or OSP from a mobile device and reference case #SP24329296.

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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. 

At 10:37 pm on Thursday, October 17, 2024, Deschutes County 911 began receiving calls reporting a structure fire at the intersection of Aspen Drive and Mahogany Street in SW Bend.  Initial callers reported a garage at 60984 Aspen Drive fully engulfed with fire spreading to adjacent trees and vehicles.  Multiple engine companies from Bend Fire & Rescue arrived on scene and quickly knocked down the fire.  Extensive overhaul operations were needed due to the large quantity of combustibles in the garage, but the fire was completely extinguished and units were able to clear the scene shortly before 3 am.  The garage and adjacent vehicles were a total loss, but the fire was kept from the home on the property with only some heat damage to the vinyl siding.  Losses are estimated at $120,000.  Red Cross assistance was not needed, as the home remains habitable.  

The fire is currently under investigation, more information will be released on completion of the investigation.

Despite the rain showers and cooler weather today, debris burning is still closed throughout central Oregon. Central Oregon fire agencies are closely monitoring the weather to determine the best time to open. We need more sustained rain and long term cooler weather to ensure the potential of an escaped burn is greatly reduced. Once we can open burning, we will get the word out through traditional and social media outlets.

Before burning always check with your local fire agency for their rules and regulations surrounding debris burning, and warming fires. Debris burning is not allowed within the city limits of Bend as per city ordinance. You can find more information about safe burning practices in the Bend area and a downloadable version of our burn regulations on our website www.bendoregon.gov/burninginfo 

ASHLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment were formally mobilized during a ceremony held at Raider Stadium on the campus of Southern Oregon University, in Ashland, Oregon, on October 20, 2024.

Nearly 205 Citizen-Soldiers will be part of a Multinational Force and Observers Mission in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. The unit’s primary mission will be to supervise the implementation of the security provisions of the Egyptian-Israeli Treaty of Peace and employ best efforts to prevent violation of any of its terms.

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Released imagery from ceremony: 

241020-Z-CH590-1005: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment stand in formation as their mobilization ceremony begins on October 20, 2024 on the campus of Southern Oregon University, in Ashland, Oregon. The 1-168th Infantry Regiment is scheduled to deploy to the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. The unit’s primary mission will be to supervise the implementation of the security provisions of the Egyptian-Israeli Treaty of Peace and employ best efforts to prevent violation of any of its terms. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

241020-Z-CH590-1046 and 241020-Z-CH590-1170: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, delivers formal remarks to the Soldiers, family members and others in attendance as the presiding officer for the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment during their formal mobilization ceremony held on the campus of Southern Oregon University, in Ashland, Oregon on October 20, 2024. The 1-168th Infantry Regiment is scheduled to deploy to the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. The unit’s primary mission will be to supervise the implementation of the security provisions of the Egyptian-Israeli Treaty of Peace and employ best efforts to prevent violation of any of its terms. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

241020-Z-CH590-1133: Oregon Army National Guard senior leaders and members of the Official Party (left to right) Lt. Col. Joshua Rapp, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, Battalion Commander, Brig. Gen. Eric J. Riley, Oregon Army National Guard Land Component Commander, and Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, render a hand salute during the playing of the National Anthem as part of the mobilization ceremony held for the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment on October 20, 2024 on the campus of Southern Oregon University, in Ashland, Oregon. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

241020-Z-CH590-1140 and 241020-Z-CH590-1143: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, render a hand salute during the playing of the National Anthem as they take part in their formal mobilization ceremony on October 20, 2024 held on the campus of Southern Oregon University, in Ashland, Oregon. The 1-168th Infantry Regiment is scheduled to deploy to the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. The unit’s primary mission will be to supervise the implementation of the security provisions of the Egyptian-Israeli Treaty of Peace and employ best efforts to prevent violation of any of its terms. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

241020-Z-CH590-1188: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, greets Soldiers assigned to the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment in a receiving line following their formal mobilization ceremony held on the campus of Southern Oregon University, in Ashland, Oregon on October 20, 2024. The 1-168th Infantry Regiment is scheduled to deploy to the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. The unit’s primary mission will be to supervise the implementation of the security provisions of the Egyptian-Israeli Treaty of Peace and employ best efforts to prevent violation of any of its terms. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

Video B-Roll: https://dvidshub.net/r/zwdw7c

SALEM, Ore. – A mobilization ceremony for the Oregon Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment (1-186th) will be held at Raider Stadium on the campus of Southern Oregon University, in Ashland, Oregon at 11:00 a.m., on Sunday October 20, 2024.

Nearly 205 Citizen-Soldiers will be part of a Multinational Force and Observers Mission in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. The unit’s primary mission will be to supervise the implementation of the security provisions of the Egyptian-Israeli Treaty of Peace and employ best efforts to prevent violation of any of its terms.

“Citizen-Soldiers from Southern Oregon have a rich tradition of stepping up when called upon,” said Oregon Army National Guard Col. Paul Dyer, commander (rear), 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team. “The 1-186 Infantry proudly represents so many incredible communities from Roseburg to Ashland, and I cannot thank the local communities enough for their overwhelming support as the unit continues to add to their storied legacy.”

The 1-186th Infantry Regiment has previously mobilized to support both homeland and overseas missions to include: Security augmentation for the 2021 Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C., COVID-19 operational support in Oregon, and federal deployments supporting Overseas Contingency Operations in the Horn of Africa from 2019-2020, in Afghanistan from 2014-2015, and in Iraq from 2009-2010.

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Oregon Military Department File Images: 

100424-A-5611R-0001: Oregon Army National Guard Lt. Col. Gregory Day, Commander, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oregon Army National Guard, leads his unit during a parade through Medford, Ore., on April 24, 2010. The unit demobilized during a ceremony following their 400-day deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as part of the largest mobilization of Oregon Guard members since World War II. (File photo by Sgt. Eric Rutherford, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

191013-Z-YK984-0001: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment stand at attention for the mobilization ceremony on October 13, 2019 in Ashland, Oregon. The 1-168th Infantry Battalion is scheduled to deploy to Djibouti in the Horn of Africa. (File photo by Capt. Jessica Clarke, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

200818-Z-CH590-0046: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers from the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team are greeted as they return home to the Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport, Ore., on Aug. 18, 2020, after their deployment in Africa. The Oregon Guardsmen are returning in groups throughout the month of August, and were assigned to Task Force Djibouti, Africa for nine months are part of the second largest mobilization of Oregon troops since World War II. (File photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

210324-Z-CH590-0038: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment prepare to depart Medford, Ore., for Washington D.C., on March 24, 2021. Approximately 75 Citizen-Soldiers from Oregon will help to support security efforts in the National Capital Region. (File photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

210820-Z-ZJ128-1004: Julie Hale, Director of Support Services, conducts a walk-through familiarization of Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center for a group of leaders from 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment Soldiers in Medford, Ore., on Aug. 20, 2021. The group mobilized as part of a statewide effort to help Oregon hospitals with support functions due to a reported increase in COVID-19 cases, and staff shortages. (File photo by Maj. Chris Clyne, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs) 

220217-Z-CH590-0050: Oregon Army National Guard Capt. Christopher Campbell prepares to cut the ribbon for the new Army National Guard recruiting facility in Medford, Ore., on Feb. 17, 2022. Members of the Chamber of Commerce, Major Randy Sparacino and others helped celebrate the official opening during the afternoon open house event. (File photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

Richland, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that BNL Technical Services, LLC (BNL), pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining $493,865 as part of a scheme to obtain COVID-19 relief funding.  Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian accepted BNL’s guilty plea, and set sentencing for March 11, 2025, at 1:30 p.m., in Yakima, Washington. U.S. Attorney Waldref further announced that BNL’s owner, Wilson Pershing Stevenson III, of Nashville, Tennessee, agreed to pay $1,105,498 as part of a civil settlement in the case to resolve his individual liability arising from BNL’s receipt of COVID relief funding. 

In the plea agreement accepted by the court and in information disclosed during court proceedings, between 2020 and 2021, BNL provided contract labor services to Hanford Site prime contractors.  BNL’s labor costs and payroll continued to be paid by DOE throughout the pandemic, including when BNL employees were not able to physically work at the site and instead were teleworking or simply home in “ready” status.

In April of 2020, BNL applied for and received a $493,865 loan as part of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Congress created the PPP in March 2020 as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, to provide funding to small businesses in order to mitigate the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic for small and local businesses. PPP loans were fully guaranteed by the United States, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) may grant a small business borrower forgiveness so long as the loan proceeds have been used for payroll and other eligible expenses. 

BNL fraudulently sought and obtained PPP funding for BNL employees despite their pay and benefits already being covered by DOE contract funds and other federal sources including the Veterans Administration. Shortly after receiving the funds, BNL transferred and used more than $424,230 of the PPP proceeds on unauthorized expenditures.

In August of 2021, BNL, through its sole owner Wilson Pershing Stevenson III, requested and was granted forgiveness of the $493,865 PPP loan, by falsely and fraudulently certifying the loan proceeds had been used for eligible uses and business expenses between April and October of 2020. 

“These critical and limited COVID-19 funds were set aside to help small businesses stay afloat during a deadly pandemic. BNL fraudulently obtained these funds and then illegally used the money for their own purpose,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I’m proud of the work done by my Office’s COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force in this case. By holding fraudsters accountable, we are protecting small and local businesses that are so important to our community and economy.” 

“Today’s guilty plea should send a message that the VA Office of Inspector General will diligently pursue those who would illegally line their pockets at the expense of the taxpayer,” said Special Agent in Charge Dimitriana Nikolov with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Northwest Field Office. “The VA OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners as part of the COVID-19 Strike Force to investigate fraud against relief programs intended to support bona fide recipients.”

“The misuse of pandemic relief funds intended to support struggling small businesses is a serious offense that undermines the integrity of critical assistance programs,” said SBA OIG’s Western Region Special Agent in Charge Weston King. “Our office will remain steadfast in pursuing those who use such vital resources for personal gain. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s office and our law enforcement partners for their collaboration and dedication to justice in this case.”

This case was investigated as part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force, an interagency team of federal law enforcement agencies dedicated to combatting COVID relief fraud in Eastern Washington. The BNL case was investigated by the Department of Energy, Office of Inspector General, Richland Field Office, the Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General, and the VA Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorneys Dan Fruchter and Tyler H.L. Tornabene are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.

Yakima, Washington - On October 21, 2024, Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Branden Scott Higgins, age 34, of White Swan, Washington, to nearly 3 months in federal prison for choking and assaulting his girlfriend. Chief District Judge Bastian also imposed 3 years of supervised release. 

According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on September 10, 2023, Higgins and his girlfriend got into an argument about the couple’s finances. The argument escalated into a physical fight with Higgins pushing, then choking the victim, who was 26-weeks pregnant. Higgins then let go of the victim’s throat and grabbed a serrated knife and took two steps toward the victim before throwing the knife away. 

The confrontation continued into the master bedroom. Higgins pushed the victim onto the bed and began to choke her until the victim began to lose consciousness. Higgins only stopped the assault when the couple’s young child walked into the room. 

“Everyone deserves to live in a safe home. My heart goes out to this young mother who told investigators she feared for her life and the life of her unborn child while she was being choked to the point of unconsciousness,” stated U.S. Attorney Vanessa Waldref. “My office is committed to holding domestic violence offenders accountable, which is central to addressing the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women and promoting safety and security on Tribal lands.” 

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Yakama Nation Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Letitia A. Sikes and Courtney R. Pratten. 

1:23-cr-02056-SAB

Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced a federal grand jury has an indicted a Spokane dermatologist, and his associated businesses, for fraudulently obtaining and using approximately $1.5 million dollars in COVID-19 relief funds to purchase luxury sports cars, buy real estate, and pay off personal debt. 

On March 27, 2020, the President signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.  The CARES Act provided a number of programs through which eligible small businesses could request and obtain relief funding intended to mitigate the economic impacts of the pandemic for small and local businesses. One such program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, provided low interest loans that could be deferred until the conclusion of the pandemic to provide “bridge” funding for small businesses to maintain their operations during shutdowns and other economic circumstances caused by the pandemic.  EIDL funds were to be used solely as working capital to alleviate economic injury to a business caused by the COVID-19 disaster, such as paying payroll, health insurance premiums, rent, utilities, and fixed debt payments.  EIDL funds were not to be used for personal purposes or to obtain real property or to pay off debts that were not yet due and owing, such as paying more than a fixed monthly payment on a mortgage or other loan.

The Indictment announced today charges William Philip Werschler, age 66, of Spokane, Washington, along with his businesses Spokane Dermatology Clinic, Premier Clinical Research L.L.C., and 3^rd and Sherman Plaza L.L.C., with 23 counts of fraud in connection with how Werschler and his businesses allegedly spent EIDL loans. 

Beginning no later than April 2020 and continuing until at least July 2022, Werschler applied for EIDL loans for his businesses: Spokane Dermatology Clinic, Premier Clinical Research, and 3^rd and Sherman Plaza L.L.C.  In total, Werschler and his businesses received more than $2.9 million in EIDL money. 

The Indictment alleges that Werschler used the EIDL funds for personal purchases including over half of the $575,000 purchase price of a house in Scottsdale, Arizona; the purchase of a 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 for $166,687; the purchase of a 1997 Porsche Carrera for $88,687; and $123,960 to pay off a loan for a storage unit at 6720 N. Pittsburg Street that was used to store automobiles, jet skis, and a boat. According to the indictment, Werschler also allegedly used EIDL money to pay off the balance of a loan for property on Grant Street in Spokane, Washington, for $286,792, and $550,000 to purchase two properties across from his Spokane Dermatology Clinic, both contrary to the proper use of EIDL funds. 

“Many small and local businesses struggled to stay afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Economic Injury Disaster Loan program was designed to provide those business owners an economic lifeline,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “My office has made it a priority to hold fraudsters accountable who used these critical funds to enrich themselves.”

 This case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigations, the FBI, and the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy J. Kelley. 

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Spokane, Washington - United States Attorney Vanessa Waldref announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Frieda Zimmerman will lead the efforts of her Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election.  AUSA Zimmerman has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Eastern District of Washington, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

United States Attorney Waldref said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election.  Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence.  The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud.  The Department will address these violations wherever they occur.  The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).   

United States Attorney Waldref stated that: “The right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy.  We all must ensure that those who are entitled to this right can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.  In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Zimmerman will be on duty in this District on election day. She can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: (509) 353-2767.”

In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (509) 458-8100.

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

United States Attorney Waldref said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate.  It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over ballot drop boxes, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

POLICE POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Police Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on November 21, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

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

1. Introductions

2. Approve August 22, 2024, Meeting Minutes

3. Administrative Closures Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote) 
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

    a) Kevin Bare; DPSST No. 57118
        Basic Police Certification

    b) Mark Chase; DPSST No. 21133
        Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, Supervisory, Management, and Executive Police Certifications

    c) Stephen Craig; DPSST No. 37427
        Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, Supervisory Police Certifications

    d) Derek Domhoff; DPSST No. 55869
        Basic and Intermediate Police Certifications

    e) Christian Lopez; DPSST No. 59360
        Basic Police Certification

4. Joshua Boatner; DPSST No. 49403; Silverton Police Department 
   Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

5. Mark Chase; DPSST No. 21133; Gervais Police Department
   Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

6. Christopher Daugherty; DPSST No. 57782; Umatilla Tribal Police Department
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

7. Troy Gainer; DPSST No. 39919; Scappoose Police Department
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

8. Matthew McCandless; DPSST No. 55017; Toledo Police Department
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

9. Applicant Review Committee Nominations

10. Agency Update

11. Next Police Policy Committee Meeting – February 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

2024 Board on Public Safety Standards & Training

 and Policy Committee

Open Vacancy – Recruitments

The Board on Public Safety Standards & Training (BPSST) and established Policy Committees have open vacancies looking to be filled. The current vacancies are as follows:

BPSST: All Board applications must be submitted through Workday.com

• Representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the DOC
• One member who is a district attorney recommended to the Governor by the Oregon District Attorneys Association

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications must be submitted by December 19, 2024.

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a telecommunicator

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a private security provider or investigator
• One person representing the retail industry

Fire Policy Committee:

• One person recommended by and representing community college fire programs

To inquire about a vacancy, please visit Department of Public Safety Standards & Training : Board on Public Safety Standards & Training and Policy Committees : Boards and Committees : State of Oregon.

If interested in applying for a Policy Committee position, please complete and submit the Policy Committee Interest Form found under the ‘Board and Committee Resources’ section of the website listed above.

If interested in applying for a BPSST position, please complete the online application at Workday Board and Commission Opportunities. (Please note that an account may need to be created if not already in Workday)

For further information regarding the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training or its respective Policy Committees, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

Thank you,

DPSST Board & Committees Staff

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is warning Oregonians about the prevalence of affinity fraud in the U.S. 

Generally, affinity fraud is a type of investment fraud and occurs when the fraudsters target victims based upon shared characteristics. These scammers often pose as or become members of the same group they intend to defraud, such as religious organizations, military organizations, ethnic groups, immigrant communities, or even professional organizations such as teachers’ unions. At its core, affinity fraud exploits the trust and friendship that exist in groups of people who have something in common. Fraudsters use a number of methods to get access to the group. A common way is by enlisting respected leaders from within the group to spread the word about the scheme. Those leaders may not realize it is actually a scam, and they may become unwitting victims of the fraud themselves. 

Due to the tight-knit nature of many groups, it can be difficult for regulators or law enforcement officials to detect an affinity scam. Victims often hesitate to report the fraud, and instead attempt to resolve the issue within the group. This is particularly true where the fraudsters have used respected community or religious leaders to convince others to join the investment.

In the area of investments, affinity fraud generally involves either a fake investment or an investment in which the fraudster lies about important details (such as the risk of loss, the track record of the investment, or the background of the promoter of the scheme). Many affinity frauds are Ponzi or pyramid schemes, in which money given to the promoter by new investors is paid to earlier investors to create the illusion of a successful investment. This tactic encourages new investors into investing in the scheme, and lulls existing investors into believing their investments are safe. 

While in many cases the invested funds are also used for the fraudster’s personal expenses and may fund lavish lifestyles, Ponzi schemes can evolve from what was originally legitimate investments. Often this occurs when the investment fails to perform as expected. In order to keep the investment going in hope that things will turn around, the perpetrator uses new investors’ money to pay off existing investors who may be growing suspicious. Eventually, when the supply of investor money dries up and current investors demand to be paid, the scheme collapses and investors discover that most or all of their money is gone. 

“The strength of affinity fraud lies in how it preys on trust within communities,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “We want Oregonians to ask tough questions about investment opportunities, especially if the offer sounds too good to be true. Unfortunately, these offers can sometimes come from familiar sources and have devastating consequences.” 

According to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), here are a some tips to avoid becoming a victim of an affinity fraud scam: 

• Even if you know the person making the investment offer, be sure to research the person’s background, as well as the investment itself – no matter how trustworthy the person who brings the investment opportunity to your attention seems to be. Be aware that the person telling you about the investment may have been fooled into believing that the investment is legitimate when it is not.
• Never make an investment based solely on the recommendation of a member of an organization or group to which you belong. This is especially true if the recommendation is made online. An investment pitch made through an online group of which you are a member, or on a chat room or bulletin board catered to an interest you have, may be a fraud.
• Do not fall for investments that promise spectacular profits or “guaranteed” returns. Similarly, be extremely leery of any investment that is said to have no risks. Very few investments are risk-free. Promises of quick and high profits, with little or no risk, are classic warning signs of fraud.
• Be skeptical of any investment opportunity that you can’t get in writing. Fraudsters often avoid putting things in writing. Avoid an investment if you are told they do not have time to put in writing the particulars about the investment. You should also be suspicious if you are told to keep the investment opportunity confidential or a secret.
• Don’t be pressured or rushed into buying an investment before you have a chance to research the “opportunity.” Just because someone you know made money, or claims to have made money, doesn’t mean you will, too. Be especially skeptical of investments that are pitched as “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunities, particularly when the salesperson bases the recommendation on “inside” or confidential information.

Two recent cases the SEC prosecuted were one involving a CEO operating multimillion dollar Ponzi scheme that targeted Filipino-American community and another involves the SEC freezing assets of investment adviser charged with defrauding elderly clients.

Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of fraud can contact DFR’s consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. 

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

La División de Regulación Financiera de Oregon advierte sobre fraude de afinidad 

Salem - La División de Regulación Financiera (DFR) advierte a los habitantes de Oregon sobre la prevalencia de fraude por afinidad en los Estados Unidos. 

El fraude de inversión por afinidad es un tipo de fraude que ocurre cuando un estafador se aprovecha de los miembros de un grupo que tienen algo en común. Los estafadores se hacen miembros o se hacen pasar por miembros del mismo grupo con la intención de defraudar. A menudo son grupos religiosos, militares, o grupos de comunidades étnicas o inmigrantes, incluso organizaciones profesionales como sindicatos de maestros. El fraude por afinidad explota la confianza y la amistad que existe dentro de los grupos de personas que tienen algo en común. Los estafadores usan varios métodos para obtener acceso al grupo. Una forma común es reclutar a líderes respetados dentro del grupo para difundir el plan de la inversión fraudulenta. Muchas veces el líder se convierte en víctima del plan del estafador. 

Debido a que estas comunidades son muy unidas, puede resultar difícil para los reguladores o los funcionarios encargados de hacer cumplir la ley detectar una estafa de afinidad. Las víctimas a menudo no denuncian el fraude, en cambio, intentan resolver el problema dentro del grupo. Esto es especialmente cierto cuando los estafadores han utilizado líderes comunitarios o religiosos respetados para convencer a otros de unirse a la inversión.

En el ámbito de las inversiones, el fraude por afinidad implica una inversión falsa o una inversión en la que el estafador miente sobre detalles importantes (como el riesgo de pérdida, el historial de la inversión o el historial del promotor del plan). Muchos fraudes de afinidad son esquemas Ponzi o pirámides, en las que el dinero entregado al promotor por nuevos inversores se paga a inversores anteriores para crear la ilusión de una inversión exitosa. Esta táctica anima a nuevos inversores a invertir en el plan y adormece a los inversores existentes haciéndoles creer que sus inversiones son seguras. 

Los esquemas Ponzi pueden evolucionar a partir de lo que originalmente eran inversiones legítimas. A menudo, esto ocurre cuando la inversión no rinde como se esperaba. Para mantener la inversión con la esperanza de que las cosas mejoren, el estafador utiliza el dinero para crear una ilusión de ganancias pagando a los nuevos inversores con los fondos depositados por inversores existentes.  Con el tiempo los inversionistas empiezan a desconfiar o la oferta de dinero de los inversores se agota y los inversores actuales exigen que se les pague, el plan colapsa y los inversores descubren que la mayor parte o la totalidad de su dinero se ha desaparecido porque el estafador se ha quedado con la mayor parte para uso personal  financiando así  un estilo de vida lujosa para el estafador.

“La fuerza del fraude por afinidad radica en cómo se aprovecha de la confianza dentro de las comunidades,” dijo el administrador del DFR, TK Keen. “Queremos que los habitantes de Oregon hagan preguntas difíciles sobre las oportunidades de inversión, especialmente si la oferta parece demasiado buena para ser verdad. Desafortunadamente, estas ofertas a veces pueden llegar de fuentes conocidas y tienen consecuencias devastadoras.”

Según la Comisión de Bolsa y Valores de Estados Unidos (SEC), estos son algunos consejos para evitar ser víctima de una estafa de fraude de afinidad:

• Incluso si conoce a la persona que le ofrece la inversión, asegúrese de investigar sus antecedentes y también la inversión, sin importar que tan confiable parezca ser la persona que le presenta la oportunidad de inversión. Tenga en cuenta que la persona que le habla de la inversión puede haber sido engañada y haber creído que la inversión es legítima cuando no lo es.

• Nunca realice una inversión basándose únicamente en la recomendación de un miembro de una organización o grupo al que pertenece. Esto es especialmente cierto si la recomendación se hace en línea. Una propuesta de inversión realizada a través de un grupo en línea del que usted es miembro, o en una sala de chat o un tablero de anuncios sobre un interés que usted tiene, puede ser un fraude.

• No se deje engañar por inversiones que prometen ganancias espectaculares o retornos “garantizados”. Del mismo modo, desconfíe mucho de cualquier inversión que se diga que no tiene riesgos. Son muy pocas las inversiones que están libres de riesgos. Las promesas de ganancias rápidas y elevadas, con poco o ningún riesgo, son señales clásicas que advierten   fraude.

• Desconfíe de cualquier oportunidad de inversión que no pueda obtener por escrito o que no pueda obtener comprobantes de la inversión. Los estafadores a menudo evitan poner las cosas por escrito. Evite una inversión si le dicen que no tienen tiempo para poner por escrito los detalles sobre la inversión. También debe sospechar si le dicen que mantenga la oportunidad de inversión confidencial o en secreto.

• No se deje presionar ni apresurar a comprar una inversión antes de poder   investigar la “oportunidad”. El hecho de que alguien que usted conoce haya ganado dinero, o afirme haberlo hecho, no significa que usted también lo hará. Sea especialmente desconfiado con las inversiones que se presentan como oportunidades “únicas en la vida”, en particular cuando el vendedor basa su recomendación en información “privilegiada” o confidencial.

Cualquier persona que crea que puede haber sido víctima de fraude puede comunicarse con los representantes de servicio al  consumidor de DFR al 1-888-877-4894 (sin costo) o .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

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Acerca de Oregon DFR: La División de Regulación Financiera es parte del Departamento de Servicios al Consumidor y los Negocios , la mayor agencia de regulación de negocios y protección al consumidor de Oregon. Visite dfr.oregon.gov y www.dcbs.oregon.gov.

Salem – Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek has proclaimed Oct. 21-25 as Community Bank Week. The week honors local banks and their employees for their economic and civic contributions in communities across the state.

Oregon community banks provide more than 4,800 family wage jobs through more than 325 branch and loan offices throughout the state. Community banks play an essential role in promoting the economic health and prosperity of the state, making over half of the bank loans made to small businesses. In some communities, they are the sole provider of banking products and services and sometimes the largest employer. Community banks donate millions of dollars each year to nonprofits and local organizations.

“Community banks are an integral part of Oregon’s overall economy through their community giving, dedication as good neighbors, and above all, their critical role in providing reliable financial services to Oregonians,” said Gov. Kotek. “We recognize community banks for their ongoing commitment to the economic vitality of local communities in Oregon.”

“Our state banks play a vital role in Oregon’s economy and continue to support small businesses and agriculture in Oregon, as well as provide banking services and create thousands of jobs,” said TK Keen, administrator for DFR. “State banks are also invested in their communities through their significant volunteer hours, food drives, and shred events. ”

State-chartered banks throughout Oregon are celebrating Community Bank Week in their local neighborhoods. To learn more about Oregon's state-chartered banks, go to https://www.oregonbankers.com/local.html.

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

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) will be hosting an Innovation Hub on Monday, Oct. 28, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. The event will be held virtually due to logistical issues. It was originally scheduled to be at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland. This year’s theme is “Can innovative technologies make green finance better?”

The virtual event will be hosted by Nicole Ferroux, a senior policy advisor at DFR and Innovation Hub liaison, and will include two panel discussions: Artificial Intelligence and Green Finance, and Blockchain and Green Finance. After the two panel discussions, DFR Administrator TK Keen will host an executive chat with Washington State Department of Financial Institutions Director Charlie Clark. Their discussion will center on regulating the use of innovative technologies in green finance.

“We are always looking for ways to encourage innovation in Oregon, particularly green finance innovations that help us combat climate change,” Keen said. “Our Innovation Hub has allowed us to keep numerous conversations with stakeholders on green finance and green innovations going, and the OMSI event is another avenue for engagement on this important topic.”

The first panel includes Jon Down, professor at the University of Portland and founder of Gen AI Corp.; Josh Cole, business operations lead at Modernist Financial; and Kirsten Anderson, deputy administrator at the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation.

The second panel includes Alex Murray, assistant professor of management and director of the Intelligent Futures Lab at the University of Oregon; Mike Zajko, co-founder of Lattice Capital; and Brooke Pollack, founder and managing partner at Hutt Capital.

What does this year’s theme, “Can innovative technologies make green finance better?” really mean?

“Green finance, which includes any financial product or service created to encourage the development of a more sustainable economy, has come under some deserved scrutiny in recent years,” Ferroux said. “Greenwashing scandals, questions regarding the longevity of the financial outcomes associated with these products, and a variety of regulatory issues have raised the question of whether green finance will continue to grow or will shrink away as a fad. This year’s event explores whether innovative technologies – namely artificial intelligence and blockchain technology – can help industry and regulators overcome these challenges to move this sector forward.”

For more information about the event, including the Zoom and registration links and the bios of each speaker, visit the DFR website.

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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.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Robert D. Joiner, died the morning of October 17, 2024. Joiner was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away in at a local hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Joiner entered DOC custody on October 3, 2006, from Grant County with an earliest projected release date of April 6, 2027. Joiner was 71 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. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) invites all members of the media to tour the state Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) during the IronOR 24 exercise from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, October 30, 2024.

This tour will provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the ECC in action during the IronOR 24 exercise and will offer insights into how Oregon is preparing to respond to a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake.

Space is limited, so we encourage you to RSVP at your earliest convivence. We look forward to hearing from you.  

More about IronOR 24

This four-day exercise is designed to test Oregon’s capabilities and readiness in responding to a catastrophic Cascadia Subduction Zone (CSZ) Earthquake.  

Building upon the Cascadia Rising 2016 exercise, which simulated the immediate response to a Cascadia up to day 3. IronOR 24, scheduled for October 28-31, 2024, will focus on continued operations Day 4 through Day 7 of the disaster response.

The exercise will evaluate the state’s ability to maintain operational coordination, ensure critical communication systems remain functional, and develop a strategy for human impacts during these critical days of response.

OEM has developed a dedicated online storyboard for IronOR 24, which serves as a central hub for exercise planning, updates and resources. This tool supports participating agencies and provides non-participating organizations with critical context about the exercise. 

Read more details about the exercise on the OEM Newsroom Blog.

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The Oregon Department of Emergency Management leads statewide efforts to prepare for, mitigate, respond to, and recover from emergencies. By fostering collaboration with partners and the community, OEM ensures that Oregon is ready to respond to any disaster. 

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) invites everyone to participate in the Great Oregon Camp-In, October 18-20. This hands-on event is designed to empower individuals, families and communities to prepare for living after disasters. You can participate at whatever level you want. Spend a few hours, or a few of days, developing your emergency plan and practicing daily activities in your home.

Participants are encouraged to share photos and videos of their activities on social media with the hashtag #GreatOregonCampIn2024. We have compiled a list of Great Camp-in Activities on the OEM blog. As well as information on how to Make Preparedness Fun for kids and less scary for everyone.

For families with young children, the Great Oregon Camp-In is an excellent opportunity to make preparedness a fun learning experience.

Here are some tips:

• Discuss the importance of being prepared in an engaging way.
• Provide age-appropriate activities that don’t require electricity, like coloring books and puzzles.
• Involve kids in setting up your campsite and in meal preparation.

For More Information:
To learn more about the Great Oregon Camp-In access the Be 2 Weeks Ready webpage. Together, let’s make Oregon a more prepared and resilient community!

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

SALEM, Ore. — The Regional Forest Practice Committee for northwest Oregon will meet at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 24 at the ODF Forest Grove Office, 801 Gales Creek Road, Forest Grove, OR 97116. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please email estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov. 

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Division updates
• Operator of the Year discussion and voting
• Forest Practice Technical Guidance (FPTG) development and stream flow permanence update
• E-Notification System (FERNS) changes
• Forest resources training strategy
• Compliance monitoring update

The public may attend in-person or online via Zoom. Public comments will be accepted. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 72 hours before the meeting by emailing estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

Regional Forest Practices Committees are panels of citizens – mandated under Oregon law – that advise the Oregon Board of Forestry on current forestry issues and forest management approaches. In 1971, the legislature enacted Oregon’s Forest Practices Act which includes three Regional Forest Practices Committees, serving the Eastern, Northwest, and Southwest regions of the state. Under Oregon law, a majority of the committees’ members must be private forest landowners and logging or forest operations companies.

Oregon’s forests are among the state’s most valued resources, providing a balanced mix of environmental, economic, and social benefits. View more information on the RFPC webpage.

SALEM, Ore. — The State Forests Advisory Committee will meet in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry, 2600 State Street in Salem on Friday, Oct. 25 at 9 a.m. A virtual option will be available via Zoom video conference, which can be found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please contact Emily Shook at 503-945-7363.

Agenda topics include:

• Fiscal Year 2024 accomplishment reports
• Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Operations Plan (AOP) public comments summary
• Implementation Plan (IP) revisions
• Forest Management Plan (FMP) modeling scenarios
• Peer Support Program
• Charter review
• Appointment renewals and recruitments

The meeting is open to the public to attend in-person or virtually via Zoom. Public comments will be accepted near the start of the meeting. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 72 hours before the meeting by contacting Emily Shook at 503-945-7363.

The State Forests Advisory Committee (SFAC) includes citizens and representatives of timber, environmental and recreation groups. SFAC provides a forum to discuss issues, opportunities and concerns, and offer guidance to ODF on the implementation of the Northwest Oregon State Forests Management Plan. The plan provides guidance for managing 616,000 acres within the Tillamook, Clatsop and Santiam State Forests, and several scattered state-owned forest tracts in Benton, Polk, Lincoln and Lane counties through a balanced approach to generate revenue while preserving environmental and social benefits. View more information on the SFAC webpage.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is offering unlimited spots for partners and allies in Oregon to attend the Point Source Youth Innovation Summit. This conference will be held Jan. 14-15, 2025, in Portland.

Point Source Youth (PSY) is a national leader in supporting young people experiencing homelessness. The conference will bring together youth advocates, service providers, and leaders from across the country to share best practices for ending youth homelessness. This includes innovative strategies like Direct Cash Transfers and Youth Advocacy.

Larry Cohen, co-founder and executive director of PSY, shares, "We are excited to bring our Innovation Summit to Portland. This is a chance for funders, young people, and service providers to come together to find new ways to prevent and end youth homelessness. Our research shows that giving young people the support and cash they need can make a big difference in their lives. This summit will highlight how we can expand these impactful approaches."

Claire Seguin, director of ODHS Self-Sufficiency Programs, adds, "We are thrilled to bring this event to Oregon. Our Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program (YEHP) team has been closely involved in these national efforts. This summit is a great opportunity to learn more about what’s working across the country and to strengthen Oregon’s commitment to ensuring every young person has a safe and supportive place to call home."

Register today and use the promo code OREGON100 at checkout for free registration.

For more information about youth work in Oregon, visit the ODHS Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program web page.

(Salem) – October’s Safe Sleep Awareness Month is an opportunity to educate families about sleep practices that can prevent sudden unexpected infant death. Sudden unexpected infant death (SUID), which includes sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), is the leading cause of injury death in infancy. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 3,400 infants die from SUID each year, with numbers in Oregon averaging about 40 per year. 

Many parents from a range of cultural backgrounds sleep with their babies at some point during their child’s infancy. However, SUID rates for American Indians, Alaskan Natives and Non-Hispanic Black infants are more than twice those of white infants, pointing to persistent racial and ethnic disparities. To address these disparities, all Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Child Welfare caseworkers receive training on how to engage families in discussion about safe infant sleep in a culturally responsive manner. When appropriate, caseworkers are encouraged to connect families to culturally responsive organizations and Tribes across the state such as the Healthy Birth Initiatives, Well Mama, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and others to help parents make informed decisions and reduce risk.

“Safe sleep is a priority at ODHS Child Welfare, because education and awareness can save lives,” Child Welfare Director Aprille Flint-Gerner said. “When we work with culturally responsive community partners and build trust with families, we can be more effective in improving infant safety.” 

A national public health awareness campaign sponsored by the American Academy of Pediatrics reduced sleep-related infant deaths by 60 percent in the 1990s, but decreases have plateaued since 2000. ODHS works with the National Partnership for Child Safety, as well as state and other national partners, to promote updated recommendations in the Safely to their First Birthday practice and policy brief such as breastfeeding and ensuring infants sleep on their backs separately from caregivers in a crib to prevent risk of suffocation. Bed-sharing increases the risk of infant death by five to 10 times compared to infants who sleep in their own safe space. ODHS Child Welfare case managers can provide portable cribs with bassinet attachments that allow infants to be in their own space while remaining close to caregivers. About 500 portable sleep spaces are distributed by ODHS Child Welfare every year with over 2,800 provided since 2020.

Other resources offered through ODHS partners include support for lactation counseling, information on donor milk banks, and support for substance use problems. Infants who breastfeed are less likely to die from sleep-related infant death. While reasons for this are unclear, research suggests the increased wakefulness of breastfed infants may play a role. Human breast milk is less filling than formula, causing infants to wake up more frequently to feed. This can prevent them from falling into deep sleep which makes it harder to wake up if they stop breathing.

Oregon has a cross-system approach to reviewing fatalities and has become a leader in supporting other jurisdictions across the country to promote safe sleep. Education and training have shown results, with a decrease in infant fatalities reviewed by the ODHS Critical Incident Review Team (CIRT). As of October, there have been three infant deaths assigned for review by the ODHS Critical Incident Review Team. One of those deaths involved high-risk sleep practices while the other two are still pending investigation. In 2023, eight child fatalities reviewed by the ODHS Critical Incident Review Team were infants. Of those, six had high-risk sleep practices. In 2022, all 14 infants reviewed by the CIRT had high-risk sleep practices present at the time of the infant’s death. 

Key safe sleep recommendations:

• Use ABCDs of safe sleep to remember the key recommendations, which stands for babies safely sleeping: Alone, on their Back, in a Crib, and with caregivers who Don’t Smoke. 
• Use a crib, bassinet or portable play yard with a firm, flat mattress and a fitted sheet. Avoid sleeping on a couch or armchair or in a seating device, like a swing or car safety seat (except while riding in the car). 
• Keep loose blankets, pillows, stuffed toys, bumpers and other soft items out of the sleep space. 
• Breastfeed if possible and avoid smoking.

“We strive to reduce infant fatalities, and a big part of that is sharing this information so that all families are aware of what they can do to create a safe sleep environment and prevent the tragic loss of a child,” ODHS Child Welfare Director Aprille Flint-Gerner said. 

Resources

• To learn more about safe sleep practices and preventing sudden unexpected infant death, visit the Oregon Health Authority’s Safe Sleep for Babies information or the American Academy of Pediatrics website.
   
• Sign up for Bright by Text for prenatal and parenting tips specific to your child’s age. Text messages are available in Spanish and English.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
October 16, 2024

CONTACT INFORMATION:
umenauer@employ.oregon.gov">Gail Krumenauer, State Employment Economist
(971) 301-3771
Video and Audio available at 10 a.m.
David Cooke, Economist 
(971) 375-5288

Oregon’s Employment Situation Sees Little Change in September

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.0% in August and September and has been in a tight range between 4.0% and 4.2% since October 2023. The U.S. unemployment rate was little changed at 4.1% in September from 4.2% in August.

Other labor force indicators also reflected stability. Oregon’s labor force participation rate was 63.0% in September, the same as in each of the prior four months. Prior to that it generally rose slowly over the past four years, from 62.0% in September 2020, indicating a larger share of Oregonians working or seeking jobs. Meanwhile, Oregon’s labor force was stable during the past five months, remaining close to 2.19 million people. 

In September, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment gained 800 jobs, following a revised increase of 900 jobs in August. September’s gains were largest in health care and social assistance (+700 jobs). Declines were largest in construction (-1,500). None of the other major industries experienced a monthly change of more than 600 jobs.

In the past 12 months, health care and social assistance (+15,100 jobs, or 5.2%) grew rapidly, while government (+5,700 jobs, or 1.8%) added the second most jobs. Only three other major industries—other services; wholesale trade; and transportation, warehousing, and utilities—grew since September 2023, each adding 1,400 jobs. 

The other nine major industries declined during the past 12 months. The five industries that cut more than 1,000 jobs were retail trade (-7,000 jobs, or -3.4%), professional and business services (-5,000 jobs, or -1.9%), construction (-4,000 jobs, or -3.4%), leisure and hospitality (-2,500 jobs, or -1.2%), and financial activities (-2,200 jobs, or -2.1%).

Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the September county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Tuesday, Oct. 22, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for October on Thursday, Nov. 14.

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October 18, 2024

Media contact: Franny White, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov">franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539

More insurers reward providers for health care quality, but many not meeting value-based payment goals

Medicaid insurers most likely to use value-based payments; 24% of insurers did not use them in 2022

SALEM, Ore. — While many Oregon insurers are increasingly rewarding health care providers for the quality of care they deliver, only about half of the state’s insurers are meeting the goals of an agreement that calls for adopting more value-based health care payments, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) analysis of insurance payment data indicates. Value-based payments tie the amount that health care providers earn for their services to the results their patients experience, including the quality, equity and cost of care.

“Paying health providers based on care quality is a key tool in improving health care,” said Ali Hassoun, interim director of the health policy and analytics division at OHA. “Focusing on health care quality helps patients receive better care at a more affordable price. I applaud insurers that adopt this innovative approach.”

Historically, health care providers have been compensated for the volume of health care services that they deliver through fee-for-service payments. Alternatively, value-based payments offer financial incentives for improving the quality — and ideally also the affordability and equity — of health care. There are several approaches to making value-based payments, they can broadly all improve health outcomes, reduce expensive emergency room visits, and ultimately save both insurers and patients money.

In 2021, OHA and Oregon Health Leadership Council announced that 40 organizations had agreed to voluntarily follow the Oregon Value-Based Payment Compact. More groups joined later; a total of 63 organizations have signed the compact to date. The document’s signatories represent the state’s major insurers, which cover about two-thirds of Oregonians. The voluntary compact calls for gradual increases in health insurance payments that are made under advanced value-based payment models. For example, it stipulates that the following percentages of insurance payments be advanced and value-based per year: 35% in 2021, 40% in 2022, and 70% by 2025. The most recent available data are for 2022.

The compact is part of broader efforts in Oregon to prevent health care costs from growing faster than wages and the economy. Through its Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target Program, OHA aims to limit annual health care spending increases to no more than 3.4% per person.

Payment data analysis described in a recent OHA brief shows that about half of Oregon health insurers met the compact’s interim goal of having 40% of all payments use advanced value-based models in 2022. OHA analysts also found that roughly half of insurers met the state’s cost-growth target goal of keeping spending within a 3.4% increase that same year. About 18% of insurers met both the value-based payment and cost-growth management goals, while about 24% did not use any value-based payment methods in 2022.

Related OHA analysis that was compiled into a report with an interactive, online data dashboard also found Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs), or insurers that cover Oregonians with Medicaid insurance, were most likely to use value-based payments. In 2022, 60% of CCOs used advanced value-based payment models, followed by 40% of insurers with Medicaid Advantage plans, and 33% of commercial insurers.

The report also notes that CCOs and Medicare Advantage insurers have increased their use of value-based payment models since 2019. During that same timeframe, the use of these models by commercial insurers and the state-managed Public Employees Benefit Board and Oregon Educators Benefit Board fluctuated.

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October 18, 2024

Media Contact: Amy Bacher, acher2@oha.oregon.gov">amy.bacher2@oha.oregon.gov

Tribal communities in Oregon will now be able to cover traditional health care practices through the Oregon Health Plan

Salem, OR –  The Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon, in partnership with OHA, have received approval for traditional health care practices to be covered through the Oregon Health Plan (OHP/Medicaid) and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

American Indian and Alaska Natives experience higher health disparities and a lower life expectancy than most other populations. There is a direct correlation between historical trauma and negative health outcomes. Better understanding of where ongoing health disparities stem from, acknowledges the true history of the nation and state.

Honoring Tribal Traditional Healing Practices with the Tribes of Oregon demonstrates a commitment by the state and federal government to support Tribes for improving health in tribal communities utilizing their own Tribal Based Practices.

“It is long overdue that we recognize and provide true support for traditional health care practices and providers in Oregon’s tribal communities,” said Emma Sandoe, Oregon’s Medicaid director. “This will help improve the quality of care, healthy outcomes and access to culturally appropriate health for tribal communities in the state.”

Tribes in Oregon, tribal entities and other academic advisors have met regularly since 2003 to gather information about indigenous practices within tribal communities that improve life and health outcomes. OHA has recognized those as Oregon Tribal Based Practices and supported Tribes to utilize those practices, in many areas of health, with contracts and grant funding. It has been a long-standing goal to have some of those practices become Medicaid reimbursable. Because of those efforts, Oregon has become one of the first four states in the nation to receive a first-ever approval to cover traditional health care practices provided by Indian Health Service (IHS) facilities, Tribal facilities, and the Urban Indian Organization (UIO).

Julie Johnson, a member of the Ft. McDermitt Paiute-Shoshone Tribe, and OHA’s Tribal Affairs Director stated, “This is a great day for Tribal Health Programs! Our ancestors gave us the strength to endure survival for thousands and thousand of years, utilizing our traditional medicines, our cultural ways of life, our teachings of healing and wellness. We are grateful for our partnerships with the Nine Tribes in Oregon and our Urban Indian Health Program. They are the experts in our tribal communities, and we will continue to look to our elders, cultural keepers and tribal leaders to guide this work to improve health in Oregon.”

OHA will work closely with tribal partners toward implementation. Other states among the first to be approved include Arizona, California and New Mexico.

For additional information about Oregon’s approval, please visit the approval on Medicaid.gov.    

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October 17, 2024

Media contacts:

Erica Heartquist, OHA, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Marc Siegel, ODE, c.siegel@ode.oregon.gov">marc.siegel@ode.oregon.gov

Stephanie Condon, ADPC, stephanie.condon@oha.oregon.gov

State agencies release synthetic opioid prevention lessons, updated fentanyl toolkit for Oregon schools

Lessons and Toolkit help districts educate students about fentanyl and opioid dangers, and develop policies and practices for substance use prevention and response

PORTLAND, Ore.— As fentanyl keeps showing up in a variety of drugs on the illicit market, state agencies are continuing their effort to help Oregon educators engage with students about the drug’s dangers – and preventing and responding to fentanyl overdoses – with the release of synthetic opioid prevention lessons and an updated Fentanyl Toolkit for Schools.

“The dangers of fentanyl have no age boundaries,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “We must support the critical role that schools play in substance use prevention and intervention for students. The updated lesson plans and toolkit are a result of multiple state agencies coming together to collaborate on how we can best protect young Oregonians, and I’m grateful for their work on these vital resources.”

Oregon Health Authority, Oregon Department of Education and the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission partnered on these opioid/fentanyl prevention and intervention resources. This cross-agency collaboration with school and community partners to prevent substance use among youth and young adults will continue with the release of additional instructional materials and professional learning resources throughout the school year.

“Responding to the opioid crisis requires all hands on deck,” said ADPC Director Annaliese Dolph. “Leaders in government, healthcare, education and other fields all have a role to play when it comes to helping Oregon’s young people understand and navigate the risks of substance use. Equipping educators with the resources to have those conversations with students – particularly about synthetic opioids – is an essential piece of the puzzle.”

School-based drug education plays important role in youth overdose prevention

School-based prevention efforts such as health education, plays an important role in preventing and delaying first use of drugs and interrupting the development of substance use-related problems affecting youth and their families.

During Oregon’s 2023 legislative session, lawmakers passed Senate Bill 238, requiring OHA, the State Board of Education via ODE, and ADPC to co-develop curricula supplements on the dangers of synthetic opioids and legal protections in place for people who report substance use or who seek medical treatment for drug or alcohol overdoses.

“The lesson plans and Fentanyl Toolkit for Schools are just two elements of a larger, comprehensive effort to improve fentanyl awareness and, more broadly, prevent harmful substance use among Oregon’s young people – a priority that OHA, ODE and ADPC collectively share,” said OHA Director Sejal Hathi, M.D.

Required Synthetic Opioid Prevention Lessons

ODE collaborated with OHA and ADPC to develop the required lessons per Senate Bill 238. These lessons are available on the ODE Health Education webpage and incorporate: 

• Youth-designed approaches with space for dialogue, relevant information, and Oregon data.
• Research-based practices that emphasize the importance of promoting strengths-based norms rather than shame or fear-based tactics, skills-based learning over awareness-raising, and connecting to broad prevention efforts within the school and community.
• Alignment with the 2023 Oregon Health Education Standards.

Beyond these required lessons, House Bill 5204 (2024) provided funding to ODE for additional curriculum supplements on the dangers of synthetic opioids. ODE will be sharing these resources along with professional learning opportunities in the year to come. ODE will be seeking feedback regarding the lessons for continuous improvement during this pilot year.

“These lesson plans help empower our students with the most up-to-date information to protect themselves and their friends from harmful substances,” ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams said. “I want to thank the Oregon Legislature for providing us with the framework in Senate Bill 238 and our partners at the Oregon Health Authority and the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission for all their work collaborating on the lesson plans and toolkit that will save lives in Oregon. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with school and community partners to prevent substance use among youth and respond to the evolving substance use landscape in Oregon.”

Updated Fentanyl Toolkit for Schools, access to overdose reversal medication

The updated 2024 Fentanyl Toolkit for Schools offers resources schools can use to educate the community about the impact of fentanyl and opioids; develop school policies and practices to prevent and respond to opioid overdoses; and build community partnerships for a comprehensive substance use prevention and intervention approach. The updates to the original 2022 toolkit include additional resources based on developing science and practices in substance use prevention and intervention, and recently passed state legislation that requires districts to share information to parents about opioid overdose reversal medications.

In addition to the updated toolkit, schools have access to naloxone through the Save Lives Oregon Harm Reduction Clearinghouse. Naloxone can save lives by reversing an opioid overdose. As of September 2024, about 125 school districts and Education Service Districts have requested and received naloxone kits. Each kit includes a wall-mounted naloxone box and eight doses of nasal naloxone.

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October 17, 2024

Media contact: Franny White, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov">Franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971.349.3539

OHA sets 2025 rates for Oregon Health Plan care coordination, finds CCO profits narrowed after 2022

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) will pay 3.1.% more per month in 2025 for coordinated care organizations (CCOs) to provide Medicaid benefits to eligible Oregonians. As a result, OHA will pay an average of $529.89 per-member-per-month next year for CCOs to coordinate the medical, dental and behavioral health care services for most of the state’s Medicaid enrollees.

“CCO rates provide reliable funding that ensures eligible Oregonians can continue to access quality, comprehensive health care through Medicaid,” said OHA Director Sejal Hathi, M.D., M.B.A. “This funding anchors the important care coordination that CCOs provide as pandemic-era supports end and more people use health care services.”

In Oregon, Medicaid provides health coverage to about 1.4 million people, including low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults and people with disabilities, regardless of their immigration status. Medicaid is administered by states according to federal requirements, and the program is jointly funded by states and the federal government.

OHA contracts with CCOs to coordinate health care for those who receive insurance through the Oregon Health Plan (OHP), the state’s Medicaid program. CCOs coordinate care for the vast majority of OHP members, or about 1.3 million people.

The per-member-per-month payments that OHA pays CCOs, also called CCO capitation rates, are updated annually based on CCO financial data. OHA developed 2025 capitation rates after analyzing CCO financial performance for 2023, the last year for which full financial data is available.

The state’s 16 CCOs collectively had a 2.2% consolidated operating margin in 2023, taking in a total of $173 million net operating income that year, according to a brief that OHA released this summer. While most CCOs had a net profit in 2023, four operated at a loss.

New, preliminary analysis also suggests that CCOs may experience lower profit margins this year. OHA analysts have calculated that Oregon CCOs collectively had a 1.3% consolidated operating margin through June 30, 2024, taking in a total of $50 million net operating income. Five CCOs reported having an operating loss during the first half of 2024 as part of the risk-based contracts. Full analysis of 2024 CCO financial performance will be released in 2025.

Recent CCO operating margins may have peaked at 4.6% in 2022, when fewer people accessed routine health care services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, the apparent 2022 peak was comparatively lower than the highest-recorded 7.5% operating margin that CCOs collectively experienced in 2014, when the Affordable Care Act expanded Medicaid eligibility.

Other key CCO financial performance data from 2023 include:

• CCOs collectively spent 89% of their total revenue on member services in 2023.
• CCO total per-member-per-month spending on member services increased 3% annually from 2022, reaching an average of $428.90 per-member-per-month in 2023.
• CCO spending on substance use disorder and behavioral health care combined increased 22.5%. This growth was largely fueled by Oregon’s focus on both areas, including the passage of Oregon House Bill 5202 in 2022, which increased Medicaid behavioral health reimbursement rates on average by 30% for providers who work primarily in Medicaid.
• CCOs spent a total of $20.2 million toward the Supporting Health for All Through Reinvestment (SHARE) Initiative. For the first time in 2023, the SHARE Initiative began requiring CCOs to spend a portion of their net income or reserves on services to address health inequities and social determinants of health.
• CCO spending on health-related services, which improve health quality but aren’t covered by traditional Medicaid, hit a new high of $121 million – nearly double the amount spent in 2022.

The 2025 CCO capitation rates reflect new initiatives that will roll out in the coming months, including:

• Financial incentives for increasing dental care access for Medicaid patients in 2025. CCOs will facilitate additional payments for dentists who provide some preventive services to OHP members, and also pass along annual incentive payments to dentists who increase the number of OHP members they serve.
• Compensation for supporting OHP members’ health-related social needs beyond standard Medicaid benefits. For example, addressing housing and nutrition needs will be reimbursable for the first time in November 2024 through the state’s Medicaid 1115 Demonstration Waiver.
• Increased reimbursement for hospitals with more than 50 beds that provide psychiatric in-patient services.

While OHA normally aims to increase CCO capitation rates 3.4% annually, the 2025 rate increase has been set at 3.1% due to state funding constraints. OHA will continue to monitor CCO access to care data and measures to ensure members are able to receive timely, high-quality care.

Oregon Revised Statute 414.593 requires that CCO expenditures be made fully transparent and available to the public. Financial statements for all 16 CCOs can be found here.

October 16, 2024

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Rates of influenza vaccination among health care workers stay low

Recovery from drop during pandemic continues slow pace, OHA data show

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon continues to see low influenza vaccination rates among health care personnel following significant drops during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to new Oregon Health Authority data.

The Healthcare Worker Influenza Vaccination Dashboard, published by OHA’s Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) Program, shows that 61% of the state’s health care workers from all facility types were vaccinated among those eligible during the 2023-2024 flu season. This is slightly lower than the 2022-2023 flu season rate of 63% -- and concerning for state officials trying to prevent the virus’s spread to people most at risk of severe illness and death.

The influenza vaccination rate among eligible health care workers had dropped 24% between the 2019-2020 and 2023-2024 influenza seasons – from 85% to 61% -- and marks the fourth consecutive year of decreasing influenza vaccination rates among health care personnel.

“Health care worker influenza vaccination rates remain low and have not recovered to pre-pandemic levels. Flu activity is returning to pre-pandemic levels, but we have not seen the same for health care worker influenza vaccination rates,” said Dat Tran, M.D., the HAI Program’s medical director. “It is important that we focus on increasing flu vaccination rates for this critical, frontline workforce.”

Broadcast-quality video clips of Dr. Tran speaking about rates of influenza vaccination among health care workers is available at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ERD/Pages/media-resources.aspx.

OHA requires annual reporting of health care worker influenza vaccination data from four facility types – ambulatory surgery centers, dialysis centers, hospitals (including inpatient psychiatric facilities) and nursing facilities.

Data are self-reported by facilities and includes aggregate counts of health care workers, grouped by health care worker category; who received an influenza vaccination; who declined; who had a medical contraindication; or who had an unknown vaccine status. The Healthcare Worker Influenza Vaccination Dashboard displays influenza vaccination data filterable by facility type, county, and worker classification. Trends by flu season and facility-specific data are also shown.

According to the 2023-2024 dashboard, ambulatory surgery centers reported the highest flu vaccination levels among workers, with rates at 67%, followed by hospitals at 66%, nursing facilities at 37%, dialysis centers at 45% and inpatient psychiatric facilities the lowest at 24%. Dialysis centers were the only facility type that saw an increase from the 2022-2023 rates, but they were still below the rates for prior flu seasons.

The percentage of eligible health care workers who declined vaccination has increased over the years, reaching 18% for the 2023-2024 flu season, which is up from 15% for the 2022-2023 season. Additionally, a high proportion of health care workers reported having an unknown vaccination status (21%), which may contribute to low vaccination rates – and illustrates the need for improvement in facility-level documentation of vaccination status.

In 2010, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services developed Healthy People 2020 with 10-year objectives for improving the health of all Americans, including showing progress toward a 90% influenza vaccination coverage goal for the health care workforce. However, Healthy People 2030 does not include a goal focused on increasing flu vaccinations among health care workers, so Oregon is continuing to use the Healthy People 2020 health worker vaccination goal as a way of directing public health action and showing where more support and education is needed.

To achieve 90% vaccination coverage, Dr. Tran said there are important steps health care facilities can take. Public health recommendations include encouraging health care workers, including those not employed by the facility—such as contractors and volunteers—to get vaccinated at the beginning of every influenza season. Facilities can also host promotional activities, such as holding mass vaccination fairs, providing vaccines at no cost to employees, starting incentive programs, and documenting all health care workers’ vaccination status and requiring a declination form for health care workers who forgo vaccination.

“We know our state’s health care workers want to protect their patients and prevent a potentially catastrophic outbreak of influenza, which can be deadly for vulnerable people, such as older adults and those with chronic conditions or who are immunocompromised,” Dr. Tran said. “We need health care workers to step up and get vaccinated.”

OHA has developed a toolkit for health care employers and workers to help them improve employee flu vaccinations rates at their facilities to protect patients, themselves and their families.

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October 16, 2024

Contact: Amy Coven (503-943-0164, amy.coven@oha.oregon.gov)

Health coverage comparison tool now provides more ways to compare options, potential savings in Oregon

OregonHealthCare.gov unveils enhanced Window Shopping tool ahead of 2025 open enrollment period

With open enrollment for 2025 fast approaching on Nov. 1, the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace is launching a revamped version of its widely-used Window Shopping tool. This timely upgrade offers Oregonians an even easier way to explore their health coverage options and maximize potential savings.

Open enrollment is the only time of year for individuals not covered through their job, the Oregon Health Plan, or Medicare to enroll in Marketplace health insurance.

New data from the Oregon Health Insurance Survey¹ reveals that 97% of Oregonians now have health coverage. For 2024², over 80% of applicants who sought financial help through the Marketplace were eligible for assistance—highlighting the increased accessibility of affordable health insurance for Oregon families.

The updated Window Shopping tool at OregonHealthCare.gov provides a streamlined, user-friendly experience in both Spanish and English. Based on location, age, and income, the tool estimates potential savings and directs users to the appropriate health coverage, whether that’s the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or a Marketplace plan. This year’s enhancements also include more detailed information on coverage for gender-affirming care, a benefit included in all Marketplace plans for 2025.

The tool continues to offer quick comparisons of health plans, detailed previews of out-of-pocket costs, and checks for provider, facility, and prescription drug coverage—giving users a full picture before enrolling.

All Marketplace health plans include a robust range of essential health benefits, from preventive care to naturopathy, chiropractic, and acupuncture, many of which are covered before meeting deductibles. The only way to be sure a doctor or prescription is covered is to check – the Window Shopping tool gives Oregonians an easy way to do that.

“Anyone looking for health coverage should visit OregonHealthCare.gov to preview 2025 plans,” says Chiqui Flowers, director of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. “We’re committed to helping Oregonians feel confident about their health insurance choices, and this tool makes the process easy.”

For those seeking personalized help, licensed insurance agents and trained community groups are available to guide Oregonians through the enrollment process at no cost. Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp to connect with an expert and take the stress out of signing up for health coverage.

¹Oregon Health Insurance Survey Health Insurance Summary. Published Sept. 2024 by Oregon Health Authority Health Policy and Analytics. https://orhim.info/3TKbpWl

²Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace 2023 Annual Report. Published April 2024. https://orhim.info/2023ExecSummary

Pendleton, Oregon – The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet Nov. 3-4 in Pendleton and online. The agenda includes an update on Northwest Digital Heritage, discussion on recommendations from the draft 2024 Oregon Heritage Vitality Report, discussion on the 2026-2030 Oregon Heritage Plan process, and a presentation from the Oregon Cultural Trust.

This meeting is open to the public and there is an opportunity at the beginning of the meeting for public comment in person and online. For online attendance, registration is required. To view the full agenda and/or to register for the virtual meeting option visit here. 

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0690 or emailing y.Newcomb@oprd.oregon.gov">Mary.Newcomb@oprd.oregon.gov at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting.

The Heritage Commission’s nine Governor appointed members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic, and institutional interests. The Commission’s nine advisory members include representatives from the Oregon State Library, Oregon State Archives, State Historical Records Advisory Board, Higher Education Coordinating Committee, Travel Oregon, Oregon Historical Society, Department of Education, State Historic Preservation Office, and the Department of Land Conservation and Development. 

The Commission is the primary agency for coordination of heritage activities in the state. This includes carrying out the Oregon Heritage Plan, increasing efficiency and avoiding duplication among interest groups, developing plans for coordination among agencies and organizations, encouraging tourism related to heritage resources, and coordinating statewide anniversary commemorations.

More information about the Oregon Heritage Commission is available online at www.oregonheritage.org and from Commission coordinator Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov. 

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(Updated to include correct link for online meeting)

CURRY COUNTY, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking to understand how Curry County residents and visitors would like to enjoy and conserve the 20 state parks in Curry County through an online survey and three public meetings this month.

This feedback is the first of several opportunities to provide input during the two-year process to update the Curry County State Parks Master Plan adopted in 2003. The master planning process is an opportunity to assess natural, cultural and recreation resources as well as management goals and community needs. 

The draft master plan is slated to be finished in late 2025 and will provide a 20-year vision with a menu of options that can be implemented over time as funds become available. 

The public is invited to share feedback on how they use state parks in Curry County now as well as opportunities for the future. Options to provide feedback include:

Online

• Survey runs now through Nov. 15: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QMBPQC5
• Online meeting noon to 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28. Advance registration is required: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-ARfEKFsQXK9aJebLGgTHA

In-person meetings

• Noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24 at Southwestern Oregon Community College, 96082 Lone Ranch Pkwy, Brookings
• 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24 at Port Orford Public Library, 1421 Oregon St, Port Orford

During each meeting, OPRD will share information about the master planning process and offer opportunities for community feedback and questions. 

Oregon State Parks properties in Curry County include Cape Blanco, Humbug Mountain, Otter Point, Cape Sebastian, Pistol River, Samuel H. Boardman, Harris Beach, Crissey Field, Alfred A. Loeb and several others.

Once OPRD gathers this initial feedback, staff will incorporate it into the plan development. There will be additional opportunities to provide feedback during the planning phase and then again when the draft plan is available. 

The draft master plan will balance the feedback received from stakeholders throughout the planning process. The management goals, strategies and development concepts proposed will incorporate priorities and concerns heard throughout the process. 

Once the final draft master plan is complete, it will be be presented to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for adoption.

For more details and information, follow the draft master planning process on our website: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/28dcf2137d3a4edfbe647ed660de3091

The Oregon State Marine Board invites recreational boaters and others interested in the agency’s work to gather and engage with staff at an Open House on October 23, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The agency is hosting the Open House to better understand the needs of Hood River and surrounding area boaters. The Open House will be held at Columbia Gorge Community College, Room 1313, 1730 College Way, in Hood River. 

The Open House is intended to build relationships with local recreational boaters and hear perspectives on how the agency can improve operations to meet future needs. Staff will be available to answer questions about boating safety, agency policies, plans, regulatory considerations, grants, boating access, revenues and expenditures, safety education, titling and registration, outfitter guides, and the agency’s environmental programs.

Learn more about other Open House locations and the proposed Outfitter Guide legislative concept.

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MEDFORD, Ore.— A federal jury found a KlamathFalls, Oregon man guilty after he kidnapped and sexually assaulted two women, and held one in a cell he constructed in his garage.

Negasi Zuberi, 30, also known as Justin Joshua Hyche, was found guilty of kidnapping, transporting a victim for criminal sexual activity, and illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.

According to court documents, on July 15, 2023, while in Seattle, Zuberi posed as a police officer and used a taser and handcuffs to detain his victim in the backseat of his vehicle. Zuberi then transported the victim approximately 450 miles to his home in Klamath Falls, stopping along the way to sexually assault her.

When Zuberi arrived at his residence, he moved the victim from his vehicle into a cell he had constructed in his garage.The woman repeatedly banged on the cell door until it broke open and she escaped. The victim retrieved a handgun from Zuberi's vehicle, fled his garage, and flagged down a passing motorist who called 911.

The next day, on July 16, 2023, Reno Police Department officers and Nevada State Patrol officers located Zuberi in a parking lot in Reno, Nevada. After a short standoff, Zuberi surrendered to law enforcement and was taken into custody.

While investigating Zuberi's crimes, federal agents discovered that approximately six weeks prior to the kidnapping in Seattle, on May 6, 2023, Zuberi kidnapped and sexually assaulted another victim. While being held by Zuberi, his first victim observed stacked cinder blocks in his garage that he later used to construct the cell where he detained his second victim.

On August 2, 2023, a federal grand jury in Medford returned an indictment charging Zuberi with kidnapping and transporting a victim with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. Later, on February 15, 2024, a second kidnapping charge and charges for illegallypossessing firearms and ammunitionand attempted escape were added by superseding indictment.

Kidnapping is punishable by up to life in federal prison and transporting a victim across state lines with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity by up to 10 years. Illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and attempted escape are punishable by up to 15 years. 

This case was investigated by the FBI Portland Field Office, Klamath Falls Police Department, and Oregon State Police with assistance from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Nevada;Klamath County District Attorney's Office; Reno, Nevada Police Department; Washoe County,Nevada District Attorney's Office; and Nevada State Police. It was prosecuted by Jeffrey S. Sweet, Marco A. Boccato, and Nathan J. Lichvarcik, AssistantU.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon, with assistance from Appellate Chief Suzanne Miles, also of the Districtof Oregon.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man was sentenced to federal prison Wednesday for stealing more than $147,000 in pandemic unemployment benefits from the Oregon Employment Department (OED).

Matthew Kemp, 41, was sentenced to six months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. Kemp was also ordered to pay $147,294 in restitution to the OED.

According to court documents, between July 2020 and January 2021, Kemp devised and carried out a scheme whereby he used the personal information of 17 people, including their dates of birth and social security numbers, to fraudulently apply for pandemic unemployment insurance benefits. Some individuals knew Kemp had used their personal information because he had promised to obtain benefits on their behalf while others were unaware.

To ensure the benefits went to him instead of the named applicants, Kemp requested the benefits be paid out by check or prepaid debit card, and put his own mailing address, email address, and phone number on the claims. If there was a delay or issue in processing his various fraudulent claims, Kemp called the OED and impersonated the named applicant to ensure he got (in his words) “my money.” 

On February 7, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a seven-count indictment charging Kemp with mail fraud, bank fraud, and theft of government funds. On June 14, 2024, Kemp pleaded guilty to theft of government funds.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General (DHS-OIG). It was prosecuted by Meredith D.M. Bateman, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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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For Immediate Release

Contact: Elizabeth Burtner, cell 509-975-6882, urtner@columbiabasin.edu">eburtner@columbiabasin.edu

Columbia Basin College  to Advance to Next Phase of Selection Process for Postsecondary Success Recognition Program

Pasco, WA, October 16, 2024 - Columbia Basin College (CBC) today announced they have been recognized as one of 200 higher education institutions eligible to apply for The U.S. Department of Education’s Postsecondary Success Recognition Program. The list includes 100 predominantly bachelor’s degree granting institutions and 100 predominantly associate’s or certificate granting institutions. 

CBC is one of nine community and technical colleges in Washington state that are eligible to apply. This opportunity allows the colleges to move to the next phase of the selection process within the program as part of the Raise the Bar initiative. One facet of the initiative seeks to recognize institutions that are promoting success for underserved populations. 

“We are honored for this opportunity, along with our peers, to showcase the work our college does to support our students in achieving academic success. We believe that education is a pathway to transforming students’ lives”, says CBC President Dr. Rebekah S. Woods. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution, CBC’s overall student demographic is 49% Hispanic. The college is focused on adopting innovative strategies and approaches to engaging historically underrepresented students in STEM learning, continuing education and integration into the STEM workforce.

For questions, please email Elizabeth Burtner, AVP for Marketing & Outreach at urtner@columbiabasin.edu">eburtner@columbiabasin.edu. To view the WSBCTC press release https://www.sbctc.edu/blogs/news-releases/2024/department-of-ed-recognition-inclusivity.   

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Columbia Basin College (CBC) is a public community college serving the Tri-Cities and surrounding communities since 1955. CBC’s mission is to inspire, educate, and support all students in an environment of academic excellence leading to the completion of degrees, certifications, and educational transfers, while fostering meaningful employment, engaged citizenship, and a life-long joy of learning. CBC offers both two and four-year degrees and one-year Certificates. Bachelor of Applied Science degrees are offered in Applied Management, Applied Management in Agriculture or Healthcare Administration, Cyber Security, Dental Hygiene, Information Technology, Health Physics, Teacher Education and Project Management. CBC also offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

RICHLAND, WA - Aspiring teachers will have a more robust and meaningful practicum experience thanks to a new partnership between the Washington State University Tri-Cities College of Education and Tapteal Elementary School. The West Richland elementary school was designated as a “WSU Tri-Cities College of Education Teaching Laboratory School” at a ceremony on Friday, Oct. 18. 

Teaching Laboratory Schools will provide a rich and meaningful early practicum experience for teacher candidates. Unlike traditional practicums that place student teachers in one classroom, WSU Tri-Cities teacher candidates placed in Laboratory Schools will observe multiple classrooms focused on specific topics about teaching and learning. After observing, candidates then volunteer in specific classrooms to support and apply teaching techniques. 

Tapteal Principal, Sean Langdon is enthusiastic about being a Laboratory School. “We are excited to partner with Washington State University Tri-Cities to create new opportunities for future teachers and staff at Tapteal Elementary. This collaboration not only showcases the exceptional work of our dedicated teachers but also promises to enhance our educational programs and enrich the learning experiences for all involved!” 

Richland, Pasco, and Kennewick School Districts have volunteered to initiate the Laboratory School partnership. In addition to Tapteal Elementary in West Richland, Maya Angelou Elementary and Roselind Franklin Elementary in Pasco have volunteered to be part of this new venture and will be designated as “WSU Tri-Cities College of Education Teaching Laboratory Schools” on Nov. 4.

John Mancinelli, the Field Services Director at WSU Tri-Cities, stated that creating impactful future educators benefits the community for decades. “Approximately eighty-five percent of WSU Tri-Cities students stay in our region,” he said.  “Tapteal’s partnership allows all our candidates to gain valuable insights into teaching and learning from exemplary mentor teachers, enhancing the significance of their education and the skills they develop to become educators. We are grateful for this partnership.”

Tapteal Elementary opened in the fall of 1978. The school is committed to developing self-motivated, lifelong learners while ensuring acceptance and respect for the individual needs and learning potential of all students. Tapteal also houses the district’s first bilingual classrooms.

WSU Tri-Cities Field Services places teacher candidates in regional schools for three types of practica: Early, Pre-Internship, and Student Teaching. All teacher candidates combined spend about 45,000 hours each academic year in 33 different school districts located in the Columbia Basin including Walla Walla, Goldendale, Yakima, Wenatchee, Moses Lake, and the Tri-Cities.

The WSU Tri-Cities College of Education offers multiple routes for individuals interested in earning a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree in education, as well as certification programs for principals, program administrators and superintendents. Visit https://tricities.wsu.edu/education/ for more details.

Download video of sign unveiling: https://www.icloud.com/attachment/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcvws.icloud-content.com%2FB%2FAcJGMEIZWy5-rA4MU_yCtqTeImQWARZ-nl9CpTDqgvmk0typJurpK4Jw%2F%24%7Bf%7D%3Fo%3DAtOUcLxbMnKpxrLhzAwmpXwnF0PIuMVbBnZp-NzP7GfF%26v%3D1%26x%3D3%26a%3DCAognu8lEO_SGGdyKQNQR7ONKZnJAe8kl14lQXj36f6JVrsSeBCw5p2JqjIYsPaY3bMyIgEAKgkC6AMA_yymTTVSBN4iZBZaBOkrgnBqJsidKS6_H0bE8JzMl6yo7AVuHBYs58ebPmebOZGVrc4WTCK2n_ONciYrvHfOhCMUQqTDFQuldHMwis6I9H380GWGP4qreZfZduT5iI1iSg%26e%3D1731872570%26fl%3D%26r%3DE0C94258-20F5-4BF5-8108-76CB79B981B4-1%26k%3D%24%7Buk%7D%26ckc%3Dcom.apple.largeattachment%26ckz%3DBBF0F997-94E0-48D6-848C-97E70A1A4DDF%26p%3D111%26s%3DAi843dRFiZMKSycnAQXERO2L3bo&uk=bSzaNb2Po3wCDE4563acsQ&f=IMG_5980.MOV&sz=51187156

RICHLAND, Wash. – For some, pursuing professional development may be a great opportunity to take the next step in their careers. For others, it may change the trajectory of their whole lives.

At Washington State University Tri-Cities, the Cougar Tracks program is designed specifically to meet the professional development needs of industry for the region. Courses are geared toward various employment levels and are offered online and on-demand, making it easy for individuals to enhance their professional skills at their own pace. Local businesses also frequently utilize the courses as onboarding tools, or to upskill and reskill their workforce.

“As a land grant university, it is WSU Tri-Cities’ mission to support the local population with educational solutions, programming that is credit and non-credit,” said Michelle Hrycauk Nassif, director of Cougar Tracks. “We are really providing the pathway for the region to advance professionally and to increase economic growth and sustainability with our partners.”

In a diverse and fast-growing region like the Tri-Cities, the need for professional growth is not limited to a singular industry or organization, and WSU Tri-Cities continues to seek new partners that can benefit from Cougar Tracks’ course offerings. One of those partners is Grace Kitchen.

Building a community

Located in downtown Pasco, Grace Kitchen serves the Tri-Cities by providing sanctuary employment and resources that help women exit trafficking, addiction, incarceration, homelessness, and poverty.

Grace Kitchen houses a catering company that serves local businesses, and they also make homemade artisan pasta and BBQ rubs that are sold online and in stores. Each product from Grace Kitchen is crafted by the women they serve in exchange for professional development opportunities, living wages, a supportive community, and a fresh start.

Partnering with the Department of Corrections and several other nonprofit organizations in the region, the women who come through the doors of Grace Kitchen are immediately greeted by trauma informed mentors, who then spend several hours getting to know them and help them feel comfortable in the program.

Grace Kitchen was founded by Amanda Lorraine, who was inspired by her own story of escaping poverty and addiction. “In my twenties, I started having a lot of people walk alongside me, investing time in me and mentoring me and I got out,” she said. “When I moved here in 2014, I knew I wanted to continue to walk alongside women who had similar stories as my own.”

After spending several years volunteering with similar organizations, Lorraine noticed that the same women would frequently return in need of assistance, unable to escape their destructive cycles, so she began to put her own dreams into action.

“I started dreaming and praying about what it would look like to start a sanctuary work program, because what I realized is that these women are incredibly isolated, they are pushed to the margins of our society, and they’ve missed so many opportunities in their life. They needed this sanctuary workplace where they can come just as they are, right out of addiction, into clean and sober living, and they can have a safe place to grow and to learn to work and communicate, build community. That’s what Grace Kitchen is all about. It’s a sisterhood for life,” she said.

A partnership to cultivate service excellence

With professional development as a cornerstone of Grace Kitchen’s philosophy, a partnership was formed with Cougar Tracks to enroll some of their employees in the Cultivating Service Excellence (CSE) course. Covering a variety of topics associated with professionalism, personal accountability, and effective customer service, the course equips employees from any industry with knowledge and skills to grow and succeed in the workplace.

Sixteen women participated in the first Grace Kitchen cohort, learning valuable tools they can apply to their current roles and carry with them after graduating from the Grace Kitchen program. Many of them recalled that they learned the importance of first impressions through body language, facial expressions, and vocal tone when interacting with customers and donors.

“I feel more confident in helping customers when they come in. I can still be myself but now I'm more mindful of how I would want to be treated,” one employee explained.

Other women connected what they learned with how they communicate with fellow employees and were reminded of skills they had learned in previous employment experiences.

“[The courses] are a really valuable tool that they are going to be able to put into their toolbox when they graduate the Grace Kitchen program and move into their next career. It’s a lightbulb moment for them, and it is truly foundational,” Lorraine said.

Scholarships for professional growth

Enrolling in the CSE course with Cougar Tracks costs approximately $250 per person, which can add up quickly for an organization like Grace Kitchen, which relies on donations and grants for 75% of their annual operating budget. Fortunately, the employees were funded through scholarships provided by Visit Tri-Cities, created in partnership with the cities of Pasco, Richland, and Kennewick to enhance professional growth in the community.

Hector Cruz, vice president of development and community engagement at Visit Tri-Cities, explained that the scholarships are crucial in funding opportunities for small businesses to retain their employees.

“Our local businesses need as many resources as they can get, and this program really going to help them keep those employees, stay open, and help them get more revenue,” he said.

Continuing to collaborate

Grace Kitchen is setting the bar for what is possible in collaboration with WSU Tri-Cities, and plans are already in the works to continue educating women in need. A workshop based on the CSE course is being planned and will soon be available for Grace Kitchen employees so the women will have opportunities to further apply what they learned in group exercises and discussions.

Hrycauk Nassif emphasized that the passion and dedication shown by the employees of Grace Kitchen exemplified the profound impact of both organizations’ shared mission of community success.

“At WSU Tri-Cities, we see firsthand how empowering women through education and skill-building can ignite lasting change,” she said. “Within the Tri-Cities community, the Cougar Pride is so strong- once a Coug always a Coug. Now those women are in that community, when they may not have otherwise had that opportunity.”

There are currently ten Cougar Tracks courses available for individuals to enroll in, covering a range of subjects. For more information about the Cougar Tracks course offerings, visit https://tricities.wsu.edu/continuing-education/.

To learn more about Grace Kitchen, visit https://grace.kitchen/.

When:  Friday, Oct. 18 at 8 a.m.

Where:  Tapteal Elementary School, 705 N. 62nd Ave. West Richland, WA 99353

Why:  Great photo/video opportunity showing partnership between WSU Tri-Cities College of Education and local schools to provide meaningful early practicum experiences for teacher candidates. The Laboratory School partnership is unique because it allows teacher candidates to observe in multiple classrooms and then volunteer in multiple classrooms to apply teaching techniques, rather than a single classroom.

Who:  In attendance will be WSU Tri-Cities leadership, Richland School District Superintendent Dr. Shelley Redinger, Tapteal principal Sean Langdon and WSU Tri-Cities teacher candidates.

What:  Tapteal Elementary WSU Tri-Cities Teaching Laboratory School Dedication

• A brief welcome from WSU Tri-Cities Field Services Director, John Mancinelli 
• Remarks by WSU Tri-Cities Leadership, a WSU Tri-Cities teacher candidate, Richland Superintendent Dr. Shelley Redinger and Tapteal Principal, Sean Langdon
• Unveiling of the WSU Tri-Cities Teaching Laboratory School sign
• WSU Tri-Cities student-led mini tours

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Contact: Leslie Streeter, WSU Tri-Cities Director of Marketing and Communications, (509) 372-7333 or eeter@wsu.edu">leslie.streeter@wsu.edu

Shawna Dinh, Public Information Officer, Richland School District (509) 967-6101 or Shawna.dinh@rsd.edu
 

RICHLAND, WA – This year’s 20th Annual Youth and Justice Forum is set to welcome a record number of nearly 200 middle and high school students from across the region. The event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 25, at the Richland Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse at 825 Jadwin Ave. in Richland.

This full-day event offers middle and high school students the opportunity to engage with local leaders in the justice system, explore higher education pathways, and learn about career opportunities in the field. This year’s forum will also feature a special message from United States Senator Patty Murray. During the event participants will engage directly with judges, lawyers, law enforcement officers, probation officers, and other professionals, gaining insights into the justice system, their rights, and responsibilities as community members. 

Additionally, students will explore potential career paths in justice-related fields. The forum’s principal goal is to foster racial and ethnic diversity within the justice system, ensuring it reflects and serves the communities it represents.

This year's registered schools include: Chiawana High School, Pasco High School, Delta High School, Kennewick High School, Legacy High School, New Horizons High School, Prosser High School, Riverview High School, Wahluke Jr. High School, Walla Walla High School, Southridge High School, Hanford High School, Kiona-Benton City High School, Horse Heaven Hills Middle School, Housel Middle School, Ochoa Middle School, Finley Middle School and Highlands Middle School.

Navigating Public Education Funding: Challenges and Opportunities for Washington State

Yakima, WA – On Thursday, October 24, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, in the newly renovated A.C. Davis High School Auditorium, plan to attend a public forum on the pressing challenges and opportunities surrounding public education funding in Washington State. This event will bring together key leaders in education finance and policy to discuss current funding obstacles and future possibilities for schools across the state.

Featured speakers include:

• T.J. Kelly, Chief Financial Officer, Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)
• Dr. David Knight, Associate Professor of Education Finance and Policy, University of Washington
• Dan Steele, Assistant Executive Director of Government Relations, Washington Association of School Administrators

This forum offers a valuable opportunity for community members, school administrators, policymakers, and the media to hear directly from education leaders on critical funding issues that impact the future of Washington’s public schools.

Click HERE for a Link to the flyer.

Lamb Weston Connell Facility Closure Job Fair 

Kennewick, WA., October 15, 2024

Were you affected by the recent Lamb Weston facility closure in Connell, WA? 

Join us at Columbia Basin College for a Job Fair specially created to support you in this transitional period. Employers want to meet you and learn more about the valuable skills and experience you bring!

Event Details:

Date: October 21, 2024

Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Location: Columbia Basin College

2600 N 20^th Ave, CTE Building

Pasco, WA 99301

Questions about the event?

Contact Ozzy del Toro at 509-426-4807