Welcome to the Oregon FBI's Tech Tuesday segment. This week: building a digital defense against tech support fraud.

In 2016, the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center received almost 11,000 reports of tech support fraud incidents. In those cases, victims reported losses of more than $7.8 million.

So what is tech support fraud? Imagine you receive a call from someone who says he is with a computer software or security company. Maybe he says he is with a cable or Internet provider. The caller tells you that your software is out of date, and you are vulnerable to a cyber attack. Or, he says your equipment is malfunctioning, and he can fix it remotely -- saving you a service call. All you have to do is to provide the caller with remote access to your computer or device. No idea what he's talking about? No worries -- he will be happy to walk you through all the technical details.

In another variation of the fraud, the bad guy convinces the you that you overpaid for a recent service. He would be happy to refund the overage if you would just give him a few details -- such as your bank account number -- so he can arrange the refund.

In reality, he is either just trying to get into your account to clean it out -- or, he is working for long-term access to launch other frauds. In this second example, he transfers money back and forth between your own checking, savings and retirement accounts to make it appear as though there is a refund when in fact there is none. Eventually, he tells you that he refunded too much and asks you to wire money back to the fraudulent company. Victims often don't figure this out for quite awhile as the losses pile up.

So how do you protect yourself?

Never give a stranger remote access to your computer or other electronics.
If something seems a bit odd, it probably is. Hang up and look up a phone number for that company or provider using a publicly-available resource.
Don't give an unsolicited caller your bank account number or other personal information that he could use to access your accounts.
Don't let someone pressure you into buying a computer security product or subscription. Oftentimes, there are reputable, free products that will do that work for you. Seek out help from someone you trust to ensure that if you do pay for something -- it is worth the cost.

If you have been victimized by this scam or any other online scam, report your suspicious contacts to the FBI. You can file an online report at the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or call your FBI local office.


Attached Media Files: Tech Support Fraud - RUSSIAN Written , Tech Support Fraud - RUSSIAN Audio , Tech Support Fraud - SPANISH Written , Tech Support Fraud - SPANISH Audio , Tech Support Fraud - ENGLISH Audio

As Oregon's summer travel season gets in full gear, State Fire Marshal Jim Walker is cautioning all campers to heed campfire safety rules and tips.

"Camping is an excellent way to enjoy all of the outdoor beauty and recreation Oregon has to offer, said State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. "However, that beauty can only be maintained if people follow campfire safety."

The OSFM encourages everyone to follow these campfire safety guidelines:
Check if campfires are allowed in the area in which you will be staying.
Keep a shovel and water nearby to extinguish any escaped embers.
Select a site away from grasses, shrubs, overhanging branches, and firewood. Existing fire pits in established campgrounds are best.
Scrape away leaves and debris to bare soil, at least 10 feet on all sides of the fire pit.
Circle your campfire pit with rocks; start your fire with paper or manufactured fire starters, NEVER use gasoline; keep the fire small and add wood in small amounts.
Never leave a campfire unattended.
Before going to bed or leaving the campsite, drown the campfire with water, stir the coals, and drown again. Repeat until the fire is out and the coals are cool to the touch.

For more wildfire prevention information and restrictions, we encourage you to visit Keep Oregon Green at www.keeporegongreen.org and the Oregon Department of Forestry at www.oregon.gov.

UPDATE 2

Around midnight on July 18, 2017, WEST was detained by the Albany Police Department for shoplifting candy bars. Officers determined he had an active warrant for his arrest and booked him into Linn County Jail. On July 19, he was transferred to the Oregon Youth Authority's (OYA) MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn to await disposition. He may face charges for his escape from OYA's Camp Riverbend Youth Transition Facility as well as other law violations allegedly committed after his escape.

MCAULIFFE is still at large. If anyone sees him, please call OSP Southern Command Center dispatch at 541-664-4600 or 911. Refer to OSP case number SP17211022.

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UPDATE

On June 24, 2017, Oregon State Police believes either WEST and/or MCAULIFFE stole a white Ford F250 from Oregon State Parks at Emigrant Springs State Park. The truck is marked with the state park emblem on the doors. The original plates on the vehicle were E273867. On the morning of June 24th MCAULIFFE was seen at a pharmacy in Milton-Freewater.

WEST is originally from Salem and MCAULIFFE is from Central Point.

If anyone sees the vehicle or either WEST or MCAULIFFE please call 911.

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Oregon State Police (OSP) is asking for the public's help to find two Oregon Youth Authority youths that escaped from 58231 HWY 244, La Grande, Camp Riverbend Youth Transitional Facility, at around 7:50 p.m., June 20, 2017.

Escapee #1: Brittain MCAULIFFE, age 18, of Central Point, is described as a white male, 5'10", 220 pounds, stocky build, tattoos on both forearms, one described as "Native Pride". His hair is short on the sides and the top is approximately six inches long with ponytail. He wears glasses and was wearing a white tank top, black shorts with a red stripe on the sides, and black and red mid top shoes.

Escapee #2: Micah WEST, age 18, of Salem, is described as a white male 5'11" 155 pounds, multiple tattoos, one is described as a derringer pistol on one arm. One is an eagle tattoo on his chest and a cross tattoo on left forearm. West is bald and was wearing a dark blue hoodie and blue jeans.

Anyone who identifies them is asked to not approach, use caution and immediately contact law enforcement.

Anyone with information regarding the location of MCAULIFFE and or WEST is asked to call OSP Southern Command Center dispatch at 541-664-4600 or 9-1-1. Refer to OSP case number SP17211022.

OSP is being assisted by Union County Sheriff's Office and the Oregon Youth Authority.


Attached Media Files: Photo2 , Photo1 , 2017-06/1002/105452/truck.jpg

On July 19, 2017, at about 8:30 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 138 near milepost 56, in Douglas County.

Preliminary information indicates that a 1999 Dodge Durango, operated by Dale Emerald HAHN JR, age 39, and juvenile passenger, both of Chemult, was traveling eastbound when for unknown reasons, exited the roadway and struck a tree. The vehicle burst into flames as a result of the crash and HAHN and the juvenile were able to exit the vehicle without injury.

A US Forest Service engine crew, from the Diamond Lake Ranger Station at Toketee, quickly responded and contained the fire. High Cascades ODOT personnel responded with a water truck and assisted with extinguishing the fire.

The eastbound lane was closed for approximately one hour for firefighting and recovery efforts and HAHN was cited for careless driving. OSP was assisted by US Forest Service and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).


Attached Media Files: Photo1 , Photo2 , Photo3

On July 17, 2017, at about 11:30 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 221 near milepost 11.5, in Polk County.

Preliminary information indicates that a 2003 Ford Focus, operated by Ivan Garcia TRAPALA, age 24, of Salem, was located approximately 35 feet off the roadway and not visible from the road. TRAPALA was found deceased and partially ejected from the vehicle. The crash appeared to have occurred several days prior and cause of the crash is under investigation.

Further information indicated that the registered owner reported the vehicle stolen on July 10, 2017 to the Keizer Police Department. One lane was closed for approximately two hours during the scene investigation, until both lanes were reopened.

OSP was assisted by Polk County Sheriff's Office, Salem Fire Department Station 4, and the Polk County Medical Examiner's Office. More information will be released when it becomes available.


Attached Media Files: Photo1 , Photo2

On July 18, 2017, at about 10:30 a.m., Oregon State Police (OSP) Troopers and emergency personnel responded to the report of a two-vehicle crash on Highway 20 near milepost 34.5 (east of Sweet Home).

Preliminary investigation revealed that a black 2015 BMW Motorcycle, operated by John Harvey WEEKS, age 65, of Salem, was travelling eastbound on Highway 20 east of Sweet Home when for unknown reasons, the BMW veered into the oncoming lane and struck a green 2016 Kenworth log truck, operated by Kenneth Keil REYNOLDS, age 59, of Sweet Home, that was travelling westbound. The BMW collided into the side of the Kenworth.

WEEKS suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. REYNOLDS was not injured. Witness stated that WEEKS was possibly looking over his shoulder behind him while negotiating the curve.

Highway 20 was closed for approximately three hours following the crash. OSP was assisted by the Sweet Home Fire & Ambulance District and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).

This is an ongoing investigation and more information will be released when available.


Attached Media Files: Photo1 , Photo2

The Oregon State Police (OSP), Mid-Columbia Fish and Wildlife Team (The Dalles) was recently awarded with the OSP Fish and Wildlife Division Team of the Year award for 2016 accomplishments. The Mid-Columbia Team consists of highly motivated, dedicated and tenacious troopers who enforce fish and wildlife laws and protect Oregon's natural resources, citizens and visitors in five counties; Hood River, Gilliam, Sherman, Wasco and Wheeler.

Together, the Mid-Columbia Team proved that through perseverance, dedication and quality investigations their collaborative work enabled them to successfully hold person(s) accountable for the following cases during 2016: Team members initiated an ongoing multi-state major serial poaching investigation where several individuals unlawfully killed up to 30 animals throughout several counties in Oregon and up to 50 animals throughout several counties in Washington. Troopers are continuing to work closely with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife sharing information and coordinating conclusion of this investigation.

A team member investigated a serious boat collision occurring in the Columbia River between two boats which caused serious injury to several occupants. The investigation resulted in a guilty plea by one boat operator for BUII, two counts of Assault IV and reckless boating.
Team members responded to a report of the possible poaching of bighorn sheep along Interstate 84 in Gilliam County. The suspects were located, identified, arrested and lodged in jail after two bighorn sheep were located with their heads removed and placed in garbage bags. Upon a thorough investigation, the hard work of the troopers led to the successful prosecution of the two suspects.

They conducted several boat patrols during the fall commercial fishing season, making several arrests and seizures of fish and gill nets used while fishing illegally; primarily by unlawful drift netting through river mouth sanctuaries.

Team members also worked closely with Patrol Division Troopers, assisting with traffic crashes and other calls for service. Additionally, they work well with other local and county law enforcement partners within five counties to provide the best service to the citizens of Oregon.

In addition to their normal Fish and Wildlife Division duties and activities, the Mid-Columbia Team members performed an array of other assignments ranging from being members of, or instructors in various fields including the Oregon State Police Critical Incident Response Team providing support to law enforcement officers who have been involved in critical incidents, to instructing recruit troopers in the enforcement of fish and wildlife laws, as well as, providing quality instruction to other Department members in firearms training, defensive tactics and boat operations to name a few.

The Mid-Columbia Fish and Wildlife Team is commended for a job well done and for their commitment to protecting people, property and Oregon's natural resources.

Photo: Pictured from left to right; Back row -- Senior Trooper Swede Pearson, Senior Trooper Justin Frazier, Sergeant Les Kipper. Front Row -- Senior Trooper Mark Jubitz, Senior Trooper Brent Ocheskey, Trooper Jason Walters and Senior Trooper Thad Routson. Not present: Senior Trooper Craig Gunderson.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1002/106202/2016_Team_of_the_Year_For_Public.jpg

Oregon State Police (OSP) is continuing the investigation into Sunday evening's fatal motor vehicle crash on Interstate 5 north of Roseburg.

On July 16, 2017 at about 5:00 PM, OSP and first responders were dispatched to a single vehicle rollover on Interstate 5 near milepost 133. Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2002 Chevy van, operated by TAYLOR NIERI, age 22, from Eugene Oregon, was southbound when one of its tires blew out causing NIERI to lose control. The Chevy van went off the roadway and onto the shoulder where it rolled multiple times. The Chevy van came to an uncontrolled rest on its top after crossing Rogers Road, which is a county road, adjacent to the Interstate 5. During the crash the rear passenger, JAMES THORPE, age 35, from Eugene was ejected. NIERI was declared deceased at the crash scene by first responders. THORPE was transported by ground ambulance to Mercy Medical Center and was later taken by air ambulance to Sacred Heart at Riverbend for critical injuries.

OSP is continuing the investigation into the crash. NIERI was wearing safety restraints at the time of the crash. THORPE was not wearing safety restraints. Rogers Road was closed for about three hours during the investigation.

OSP was assisted by Sutherlin Police Department, Douglas County Fire District 2, Roseburg Towing, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Photograph courtesy of OSP.


Attached Media Files: Douglas_County

At 10:01 p.m. on July 19th, the Roseburg Fire Department was dispatched to a grass and RV fire next to a large metal shed in the 2300 block of Diamond Lake Boulevard. A passerby reported flames showing with heavy black smoke. The property included three commercial structures, including multiple vehicles and RV's.

Firefighters arrived on scene to find a fully involved RV fire which had extended to a 40x70 metal commercial structure as well as a grass fire to the west of the building. Upon arrival, firefighters were informed all occupants had evacuated the structures. Firefighters extinguished the fire and were able to protect the surrounding structures from damage.

The fire was contained to the RV and one of three structures on the property. The commercial structure involved in the fire housed numerous race cars, parts, and tools. The commercial building suffered extensive structural damage. The RV was a total loss; however, no one was injured in the fire.

Traffic was detoured on Diamond Lake Boulevard for approximately two hours. A total of 11 firefighters assisted with the firefighting operations. Other agencies assisting with the fire included Roseburg Police Department, Bay Cities Ambulance, Pacific Power, and Avista Gas.

The combined value of structures at 2366 NE Diamond Lake Boulevard is $327,000. The structure and RV involved suffered approximately $100,000 in damage. Fire investigators were on scene and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

For the latest information regarding the City of Roseburg Fire Department, please visit our website at www.cityofroseburg.org or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/roseburgfire.


Attached Media Files: Image 1

Media Contact: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tom Gauntt, Pacific Power July 17,2017
503-813-7291

Renewing Community with Green Projects
Deadline is Sept. 29 for getting your community's project considered
PORTLAND, Ore. -- For more than a decade, Pacific Power's Blue SkySM customers have made a big difference on the green power map by personally choosing to support renewable energy. This includes partnering with community-focused organizations to put more than 100 new renewable energy projects to work in Oregon, Washington and California -- adding more than eight megawatts of renewable power capacity to the grid.
The competitive application process to select new projects is now open for this year's funding cycle. The amount of funding awarded is limited and varies each year. Since 2006, more than $10 million of Blue Sky funds have been invested in local renewable energy projects. These projects are intended to further the growth of renewable energy and offer educational and demonstration opportunities that benefit local communities.
Go to pacificpower.net/blueskyprojects for a list of previously funded projects.
To be considered in this competitive application process, interested parties must complete and submit an application form along with supporting materials by 5 p.m. Sept. 29, 2017.
Eligible renewable energy projects may include those that support technologies such as wind, solar, low-emissions biomass, wave, landfill gas, certified low-impact hydro, pipeline or irrigation canal hydropower and geothermal.
The program particularly encourages projects that:
Advance new and emerging technologies, including renewable energy systems tied to electric vehicle charging, energy storage systems or micro grid applications.
Target underserved populations (low income or rural)
Contribute to community energy resiliency and disaster preparedness
Provide robust education and public engagement plans
Are sponsored by a Blue Sky customer and/or community
Use local labor and materials
This funding is available for non-residential customers proposing projects in Pacific Power's service area. They must be locally owned with a generating capacity of less than 10 megawatts of electricity. Additionally, projects must be completed by Dec. 31, 2018.
For detailed eligibility requirements, project qualifications and application forms, please go to: pacificpower.net/blueskyfunds.
Materials may be submitted to bluesky@pacificorp.com.
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About Blue Sky
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has ranked Blue Sky fifth or better in the nation for the 13th consecutive year in the number of customers buying renewable power. The Blue Sky Block, Usage and Habitat products are Green-e Energy certified; About 59,000 Pacific Power customers currently participate in the Blue Sky program across Oregon, Washington and California. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net/bluesky.
About Pacific Power
Pacific Power provides electric service to nearly 750,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. Our goal is to provide our customers with value for their energy dollar, and safe, reliable electricity. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with almost 1.8 million customers in six western states.

HUGO - Northbound I-5 traffic is slow and congested due to a wildfire near Hugo, seven miles north of Grants Pass. NB slow lane is closed to traffic to assist fire fighting efforts. Expect delays and watch for fire crews.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1202/106241/I-5_NB_MP_65_fire_July19_2017.jpg

Portland, OR - The USAF will be monitoring the Oregon wing of the Civil Air Patrol as they conduct a state wide exercise this Saturday, July 22nd, with a collection of scenarios to train for, and test, the Oregon Wing CAP's capability and preparedness to respond.

With major natural events happening across the country, we are reminded that Oregon is also no stranger to natural disasters. From floods, windstorms, ice storms to tsunamis and earthquakes. Lately, authorities have been pushing preparedness for these various disasters with even more emphasis on earthquakes and tsunamis following major disasters across the nation and the world. Recent studies suggest that the "Big One," a 9.0+ earthquake along the Pacific Coast, could occur at any time. There is also the always-real possibility of aircraft, vehicles and people going missing in the rugged Oregon forests.

Within Oregon, the main mission incident command center will be located at Aurora State Airport with two additional teams operating out of Rogue Valley International Airport in Medford and Redmond State Airport. The CAP will conduct responses to various natural disasters; air search and rescue; and related operations that could be requested by state, local and federal authorities. CAP members and specially equipped search aircraft from around the state will comprise the Oregon CAP's ground and air crew personnel to conduct various emergency flight operations. These operations could be communications support to local authorities; search operations to locate missing persons, vehicles or aircraft; provide high resolution digital photographs; emergency medical support flights; and transporting of critical supplies, equipment and personnel among other possible responses.

In addition to adult aircrew and ground staff, the CAP will utilize its teen-aged cadet members in various ground support operations such as communications, mission base operations, ground search and rescue operations and aircraft flight line activities under the guidance of an experienced adult member.

"Our cadet members are a crucial force multiplier during our missions," said Lt Col Nick Ham, CAP incident commander for the exercise. "They perform essential tasks that have a tremendous impact on the success of our multitude of operational missions."

"The training we conduct during these monitored tests and more routine training operations during the year are important to keep our skills current, apply new technology and procedures and to train our newer members who are interested in serving their communities and their country in time of emergency," he said.

Civil Air Patrol, the longtime all-volunteer U.S. Air Force auxiliary, is the newest member of the Air Force's Total Force. In this role, CAP operates a fleet of 560 aircraft, performs about 90 percent of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and is credited by the AFRCC with saving an average of 80 lives annually. CAP's 57,000 members also perform homeland security, disaster relief and drug interdiction missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. CAP also plays a leading role in STEM/aerospace education, and its members serve as mentors to 24,000 young people participating in CAP's Cadet Programs. Visit www.gocivilairpatrol.com for more information.
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MEDIA NOTE:
Members of the media are encouraged to visit the CAP mission bases at the Medford Airport and Aurora State Airport (North end) during the exercise. No media flights will be conducted, but there will be opportunities to conduct interviews including with official USAF monitors. Advanced RSVP would be greatly appreciated at thomtra2@gmail.com.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/1184/106259/Airborne-2.jpg

Portland, Ore. -- On August 28, 2017 the price of the America the Beautiful -- The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass will increase from $10 to $80 as result of the National Park Service Centennial Act P.L. 114-289.

The National Park Service Centennial Act raised the price of the senior pass (currently $10) so that it is on par with the cost of a regular annual pass (currently $80). It also authorizes a $20 annual pass for senior citizens. Increasing the onetime cost for those 62 and older to the current level of the America the Beautiful annual pass is a reasonable way to help insure our parks and federal recreation areas will remain available for future generations. As stewards, the BLM manages public lands for the benefit of current and future generations, supporting conservation.

The Senior Pass, along with five passes included in the America the Beautiful -- The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass program -- provides access to more than 2,000 recreation sites managed by six Federal agencies. The Senior Pass covers all entrance fees and standard amenity (day use) fees and may provide senior discounts for things such as tours or campsites. The pass also waives the entrance fee for travelling companions.

"The lifetime Senior Pass will continue to give seniors access to parks and public lands nationwide, and even at $80, it is an incredible value," said Jamie Connell, State Director for BLM Oregon/Washington.

Senior passes purchased before August 28 are still good for life. The current $10 Senior Pass will continue to be sold until the $80 senior pass is implemented on August 28.

Additional information about the BLM's recreation program is available online at: https://www.blm.gov/visit.

WASHINGTON -- This week, July 17-21, the Bureau of Land Management joins the Department of the Interior in celebrating the Trump Administration's "Made in America" Week. With responsibility for managing more than 10 percent of the nation's land and 30 percent of its subsurface minerals, the BLM supports American-made goods and services in many ways.

"The BLM strives to be a good neighbor in the communities we serve, while providing opportunities for economic growth as well as traditional uses such as ranching, mining, logging, energy development as well as recreational activities like hunting and fishing," said Acting Director Michael Nedd. "Public lands provide valuable, tangible goods and materials we rely on every day to heat our homes, build our roads, and feed our families, among many other activities."

In total, the BLM's management of public lands supported 374,000 jobs and provided $88 billion in economic output throughout the country in FY 2015.

The BLM's mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America's public lands for the multiple use and enjoyment of present and future generations. This includes a variety of commercial-, recreation-, and conservation-based products and services. In addition to energy-related products such as coal, oil, natural gas, and renewables, examples include:

· Non-energy minerals. Many types of non-energy minerals, including sand, gravel, dirt, and rock, are essential for everyday construction uses. The BLM issued new contract sales and use permits for nearly 20 million cubic yards of such mineral materials in 2015, with a combined value of nearly $28 million.

· Grazing. The BLM administers nearly 18,000 permits and leases held by ranchers who graze their livestock, mostly cattle and sheep, at least part of the year on more than 21,000 allotments. We manage livestock grazing on 155 million acres of public lands.

· Forestry. One-quarter of the 245 million acres managed by the BLM are forest ecosystems. Through responsible management, the BLM ensures the health and resilience of the nation's public forest lands, as well as the availability of forest products like timber. In 2015, the BLM offered 243 million board feet of timber for sale, enough to build approximately 10,500 homes.

· Helium. The Federal Helium Reserve is a resource owned by the American people and managed by the BLM. Crude helium is an important resource for technology development and other important uses related to national defense, energy, medicine, industry, and space exploration. Currently, the BLM's crude helium plant satisfies approximately 42 percent of U.S. helium demand and 15 percent of global demand.

· Recreation. BLM-managed public lands offer more recreational opportunities -- such as hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking -- than those managed by any other federal agency. Lands used for recreation (including the BLM's National Conservation Lands) contribute significantly to local economies, with BLM-managed lands receiving more than 62.4 million recreation-related visits in 2015.


-BLM-

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The BLM's mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America's public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. In fiscal year 2015, the BLM generated $4.1 billion in receipts from activities occurring on public lands.


Attached Media Files: 2017-07/5514/106206/Made_in_America_Public_Lands_PR_Final_071817.pdf

For Immediate Release
July 18, 2017
Contact: Linsay Hale
(503) 378-2427

Notice of Meeting

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a meeting at 10:00 a.m. on July 27, 2017 at the Public Safety Training Academy in Salem, Oregon.

Teleconference Information: (888) 273-3658; Participant Code: 4711910

The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made as soon as possible by contacting Linsay Hale (503) 378-2427.

Agenda Items:

1.Minutes for March 28, 2017
Approve Minutes

2.Discretionary Benefits of the Public Safety Memorial Fund
Determination Criteria

3. Next meeting -- October 26, 2017

Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) crews from Molalla and Lyons were at the emergency vehicle operations training facility at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem honing their driving skills with fire trainers from the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) today in preparation for the upcoming wildfire season and the anticipated crowds coming to Oregon for the solar eclipse in August.

ODF apparatus operators participated in various driving exercises at the Academy in a controlled environment with lights and sirens activated. To get the attention of drivers and crews, and hone their reaction skills, tennis balls were placed on the driving course to simulate situations that required quick actions by the driver such as a person running across a road. ODF personnel also learned what to do in case they came across a traffic collision and needed to safely manage the incident, and keep traffic flowing, until additional help arrived.

Emergency personnel around Oregon, including crews from ODF, are planning for the thousands expected to participate in various events around the state during the solar eclipse which may slow down first responders using roads and highways.

DPSST's Director Eriks Gabliks said that his organization was "glad to assist ODF when they made the request. We know the dangers involved in emergency vehicle operations and sadly know that each year firefighters around the country are involved in serious crashes." Gabliks said that data collected by the United States Fire Administration shows that "over the past ten years, the trend in the numbers of firefighters killed while responding to or returning from an incident has declined by 54 percent. In 2006 sixteen firefighters died in vehicle related incidents while in 2015 that number dropped to eight. Gabliks credits the importance this issue has received at fire agencies around Oregon and around the country. He also cited the efforts of the National Fallen Fighters Foundation and the United States Fire Administration which have provided valuable resources to aid local firefighters and DPSST.

Gabliks was proud to share "DPSST has a training facility that allows for realistic scenario training and also two full-time staff who offer emergency vehicle response training at fire stations around the state. This program was nationally recognized a number of years ago by the Congressional Fire Services Institute which presented DPSST with its Senator Paul Sarbanes Award for Firefighter Safety Programs.


United States Fire Administration
https://www.usfa.fema.gov/operations/ops_vehicle.html

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
https://www.everyonegoeshome.com/16-initiatives/3-risk-management/

Congressional Fire Service Institute
https://www.cfsi.org/


Attached Media Files: ODF driver training , ODF EVO training , ODF Code 3 , ODF DPSST , ODF Emergency Vehicle Ops , ODF Driver Training

The Oregon Home Care Commission (OHCC) is planning to meet Thursday, August 3, 2017, at 10 a.m., 676 Church Street NE in Salem. The meeting is open to the public.

The agenda includes: public testimony; Governor's Commission on Senior Services; Oregon Disabilities Commission; Oregon Association of Area Agencies on Aging and Disabilities, Oregon Self-Advocacy Coalition, Aging & People with Disabilities (APD), Community Advisory Councils and Coordinated Care Organizations updates; OHCC Legislative Committee -- bill reports; OHCC budget update; a quarterly APD update and a quarterly Homecare Worker Benefits Trusts update. There will be a working lunch, which will include: annual workers' compensation report, annual CPR/First Aid report, annual training report, quarterly registry report, quarterly traditional health worker training meeting notes, quarterly STEPS QBR referral and customer satisfaction survey results, bi-monthly STEPS report, monthly Oregon Health Plan Ombuds Advisory Council meeting notes, and monthly training/registry reports. This will be followed by a worker's classification -- workforce development update and the executive director's report.

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

For those who are unable to attend in person, there is a call-in number: 1-888-278-0296; access code: 7999724 #. The commission meets on the first Thursday of every month. Visitors are welcome to these meetings. Persons needing an accommodation due to a disability should contact Joanna DeMeyer at 503-378-4984; joanna.m.demeyer@state.or.us.

About the Oregon Home Care Commission (OHCC):
OHCC ensures high-quality home care services for seniors and people with physical, intellectual/developmental and mental health disabilities. The Commission defines qualifications, manages a statewide registry and trains home care workers (HCWs) and personal support workers (PSWs). OHCC serves as the employer of record for purposes of collective bargaining for HCWs and PSWs receiving service payments from public funds.
Learn more about OHCC at www.oregon.gov/dhs/seniors-disabilities/hc and
"Like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OregonHomeCareCommission.
# # #


Attached Media Files: Full Meeting Agenda OHCC 080317

The Governor's Commission on Senior Services Executive Committee will meet on Thursday, July 27, 2017, from 1 p.m. -- 2:30 p.m. at 500 Summer Street NE, Room 165, Salem, OR. The meeting is open to the public.

The agenda includes regular commission business, new business, a discussion on the 2017 Legislative Session, and creation of the agenda for the full joint commission meeting with the Oregon Disabilities Commission taking place on August 10, 2017.

People can also call into the meeting. Conference line: 888-363-4735 Access code: 3439085.
The meeting location is accessible to people with disabilities. For questions about accessibility or to request an accommodation, please contact Rebecca Arce at rebecca.e.arce@state.or.us. Requests should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting.

For questions about the meeting, please contact: Rebecca Arce, Policy Analyst, at Rebecca.E.Arce@state.or.us, or 503-947-5019.
# # #

During the 2017 session, the Oregon Legislature passed a number of measures that strengthen quality and safety in long-term care settings. The passage of House Bill 3359 (HB 3359) provides a comprehensive approach to improving safety and quality in licensed long-term care settings. The bill provides much-needed updates in many areas around oversight, penalties, quality and provision of care for individuals residing in licensed care facilities. A special emphasis was given to the improvement of training for those who care for people with Alzheimer's Disease and other forms of dementia.

With more than 1,000 Oregonians experiencing abuse in licensed long-term care settings in a year, the bill addresses a wide variety of areas. The following list offers a brief overview of some of the topics covered. It is only a summary and not a complete list.

Oregon HB 3359:
Establishes that administrators of residential care facilities, including assisted living and memory care, will be licensed by an independent board by July 2019 following a process to establish this new requirement.
Updates amounts and caps, set in the 1970s, for civil monetary penalties for elder or adult abuse and harm within licensed long-term care settings. For incidents categorized as serious harm, the fines were raised from a maximum of $500 up to $2500.
Adopts new penalties for facilities, specifically a penalty for "Failure to report suspected abuse" and "Failure to perform corrective action noted during a survey or inspection."
Updates licensing fee amounts for residential care/assisted living facilities and nursing facilities.
Gives the Department the ability to impose an immediate suspension in residential care facilities when there is critical health, safety or welfare issue -- without waiting 10 days for a hearing.
Requires the Oregon Department of Human Services (Oregon DHS) to develop an enhanced oversight and supervision program for residential care facility oversight.
Asks for the development of a technology-based, acuity-based staffing tool for use by providers and Oregon DHS, which allows providers to determine staffing patterns based on current residents' needs.
Establishes a variety of training and certification requirements for care staff in long-term care facilities.
Adds new safety requirements, licensing options and establishes new quality metrics.
Establishes the Quality Measurement Council with representatives from the Office of the Long Term Care Ombudsman, Alzheimer's advocacy, elder rights advocate, academics with data/metrics expertise, member of Oregon Patient Safety Commission, provider association, and Oregon DHS.

The described changes and additions to existing statutes provide the legal framework to improve the quality of care and better ensure the safety and dignity of residents who reside in licensed long-term care settings. The bill is set to become law once signed by the Governor.

The main focus for the Oregon DHS Aging & People with Disabilities (APD) program is on the safety of the Oregonians we serve. APD Program Director Ashley Carson Cottingham said, "We are looking forward to working with providers and all other parties impacted by these changes to ensure high-quality care and protection for some of our most vulnerable citizens."
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Salem -- Small businesses and individuals who buy their own health insurance can now see the final approved rates for 2018 health insurance plans. The Department of Consumer and Business Services, Division of Financial Regulation must review and approve rates before they can be charged to policyholders.

These final decisions are the result of the division's rigorous review process, which included public conference calls, public hearings, and public comment. The division published preliminary decisions before the hearings. These hearings provided an opportunity for the public, health insurance companies, and the division to further review and analyze the preliminary decisions.

The final decisions are primarily unchanged from the preliminary decisions, with the exception of Providence Health Plans individual rates, which increased by an additional 2.2 percent to a total increase of 10.8 percent. This final proposed increase is still significantly less than Providence's original request for a 20.7 percent increase. This increase was due to clarifying information provided by Providence during the hearings that justified the change.

In the individual market, the division has issued final decisions for seven companies with average rate changes ranging from a 1.6 percent decrease to a 14.8 percent increase. Under the final decisions, Silver Standard Plan premiums for a 40-year-old in Portland would range from $355 to $452 a month. These premiums are for plans before financial assistance through Oregon's Health Insurance Marketplace is taken into account.

The rate changes are company-wide averages. Individuals may see different changes in 2018 depending on their specific plan choices.

"Although health insurance premiums will be increasing in 2018, for many Oregonians those increases will be offset by corresponding increases in financial help available through Oregon's Health Insurance Marketplace," said DCBS Director Patrick Allen. "Still, we know a large number of Oregonians who do not receive help will see increased costs. We are committed to continuing to work on reforms that make insurance affordable to more people."

All Oregonians who purchase their own insurance, even those who do not receive financial help in 2017, are encouraged to apply for assistance through the Marketplace in 2018. They might be surprised by what they qualify for. In 2017, Oregonians who received help with the costs of their health insurance paid on average $147 a month.

In the small group market, the division has issued final decisions for nine companies with average rate increases ranging from 3.3 percent to 10.1 percent. Under the final decisions, Silver Standard Plan premiums for a 40-year-old in Portland would range from $293 to $421 a month.

See the chart at dfr.oregon.gov/healthrates/Documents/2018-fnl-prpsd-rates.pdf for the full list of final decisions. While the decisions on the attached chart are final decisions, Moda Health Plan Inc. still has two pending rate requests that are undergoing review and are open for comment. These rates are for Lane and Tillamook counties. The company did not originally file rates for those counties, but reconsidered and filed rates to expand back into the counties.

Reasons for the rate changes include:
The new Oregon Reinsurance Program. This program reduced individual market rates by 6 percent, and added a 1.5 percent increase to the small group market.
Federal weakening of the individual mandate enforcement. This increased rates by 2.4 percent and 5.1 percent.
Medical costs continue to rise, driven by increased use and the cost of new specialized prescription drugs.
The cost of providing care continues to surpass premiums collected for many carriers.

In 2018, most counties will have at least two carriers both on and off the Marketplace and at least one carrier exclusively off the Marketplace. Two counties, Douglas and Lincoln, have only one carrier on and off the Marketplace and one carrier off the Marketplace.

"We remain concerned about the limited health plan choices some counties are facing, and will work with insurance companies throughout the next year to try to increase competition throughout the state in 2019," said Allen. "An important first step taken by the state is the creation of the Oregon Reinsurance Program. Without this program, we would be seeing counties with no Marketplace plans, and much larger rate increases for those who purchase insurance on their own in 2018."

Developed by Oregon Gov. Kate Brown and stakeholders, and recently approved by the Legislature, the Oregon Reinsurance Program is designed to stabilize the individual market, reduce rates, and encourage insurance companies to offer plans in more parts of the state. Reinsurance spreads the risk of high-cost claims so that no one carrier takes on a disproportionate share of this risk. The program is partially funded by a portion of a new 1.5 percent assessment on all commercial insurance plans.

Final rates, a summary of the state of the individual market, and the final decision information for each carrier can be found at www.oregonhealthrates.org. Statewide premium comparison tables for ages 21, 40, and 60 will be posted online in August.

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


Attached Media Files: 2018 Final Health Insurance Rates

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) inmate died unexpectedly early Saturday morning at Two Rivers Correctional Institution (TRCI) in Umatilla. As with all unanticipated deaths of state prison inmates, the Oregon State Police Criminal Investigation Division is conducting an investigation.

At approximately 3:38 a.m. on Saturday, July 15, 2017, Richard Bradbury, 61, was found unresponsive in his cell. Medical staff immediately began life-saving efforts to no avail. He was pronounced deceased at 4:16 a.m.

Bradbury entered DOC custody on March 15, 1994, on one count of aggravated murder and one count of arson in the first degree out of Marion County. He was serving a life sentence.

Next of kin has been notified. No other details are available at this time.

TRCI is a multi-custody prison in Umatilla that houses approximately 1,800 male inmates. TRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including institution and industrial laundry, mattress manufacturing, and sewing. Other institutional work programs include reparation and cleaning of irrigation ditches, maintenance of local baseball fields, and work with local cities and the Hermiston School District. The facility provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, religious services and behavioral health services. TRCI opened in 2000.

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Attached Media Files: Richard Bradbury

SALEM, Ore. -- On July 27 a broad-based committee will meet in Salem to discuss forestland smoke. The Smoke Management Program Review Committee will continue its task of recommending improvements for how the state can use controlled burns to improve forest health and protect nearby residents from wildfire while minimizing smoke impacts on communities to protect public health.

The public is invited to attend. The meeting will be in the Tillamook Room in Building C at ODF's Salem headquarters, 2600 State St. It will last from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with an opportunity for public comment near the end of the meeting. The meeting space is accessible to persons with disabilities. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting Chrystal Bader at 503-945-7220.

The 20-person committee was appointed by the Oregon Department of Forestry working with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. The committee is made up of forest landowners, public health representatives, the American Lung Association, forest collaboratives and environmentalist groups, county and city elected officials, the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and a tribal representative.

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

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

The committee is expected to hold two more meetings -- one on Aug. 31 in southern Oregon and on Oct. 4 again in Salem.
# # #

Oregon Adds 8,500 Jobs in June

In June, Oregon's nonfarm payroll employment grew by 8,500 jobs, following a gain of 2,600 in May. The June increase was the largest gain since February 2016 when 9,600 jobs were added. Gains were widespread among the major industries, with 11 of the 14 industries adding jobs. Leisure and hospitality added the most, increasing by 2,100 jobs. In addition, strong hiring occurred in construction (+1,600 jobs) and manufacturing (+1,400). Financial activities was the only major industry to cut substantially, as it shed 800 jobs.

Over the past 12 months, Oregon's payroll employment rose 47,300, or 2.6 percent. This rapid pace was an acceleration from earlier in the year when over-the-year growth was hovering around 2.0 percent.

Oregon's unemployment rate was little changed at 3.7 percent in June. The rate remained near its all time low of 3.6 percent reached in May. Oregon's rate was significantly below its year-ago rate of 5.1 percent in June 2016 and well below the U.S. unemployment rate of 4.4 percent in June 2017.

Other signs of a tight labor market in Oregon include fewer long-term unemployed and falling measures of labor underutilization. The number of Oregonians who have been unemployed for more than six months dropped to 10,700 in June, the lowest on record dating back to 2002. In contrast, the long term unemployed reached a peak of more than 100,000 in 2010, during the aftermath of the Great Recession.

Meanwhile, U-6--the broadest measure of labor underutilization, which includes the unemployed, those who have stopped looking for work within the last year but still want a job, and those who are working part-time but would prefer to work full-time--dropped to 7.4 percent in June. This was by far Oregon's lowest U-6 since comparable records began in 2002, and was a continuation of its downward trend since reaching a peak of 21.1 percent in May 2009. In recent months, Oregon's labor market tightened so rapidly that Oregon's U-6 dropped below the national U-6 of 8.6 percent in June 2017.

Next Press Releases
The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the June county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Tuesday, July 25th, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for July on Tuesday, August 15th.



Notes:
All numbers in the above narrative are seasonally adjusted.

The Oregon Employment Department and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) work cooperatively to develop and publish monthly Oregon payroll employment and labor force data. The estimates of monthly job gains and losses are based on a survey of businesses. The estimates of unemployment are based on a survey of households and other sources.

The Oregon Employment Department publishes payroll employment estimates that are revised quarterly by using employment counts from employer unemployment insurance tax records. All department publications use this Official Oregon Series data unless noted otherwise. This month's release incorporates the October, November and December 2016 tax records data. The department continues to make the original nonfarm payroll employment series available; these data are produced by the BLS.



The pdf version of the news release, including tables and graphs, can be found at www.QualityInfo.org/press-release. To obtain the data in other formats such as in Excel, visit www.QualityInfo.org, then within the top banner, select Economic Data, then choose LAUS or CES. To request the press release as a Word document, contact the person shown at the top of this press release.

For help finding jobs and training resources, visit one of the state's WorkSource Oregon Centers or go to: www.WorkSourceOregon.org.

Equal Opportunity program -- auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Contact: (503) 947-1794. For the Deaf and Hard of Hearing population, call 711 Telecommunications Relay Services.


Attached Media Files: Employment in Oregon June 2017 News Release

July 20, 2017

What: The regular monthly public meeting of the Medicaid Advisory Committee

When: Wednesday, July 26, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to noon

Where: Oregon State Library, 250 Winter Street NE, Room 102, Salem. The meeting will also be available via webinar. A recording of the meeting will be posted at the Medicaid Advisory Committee's website http://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/HP-MAC/Pages/index.aspx

Members of the public can also call in to listen at:
Conference line: 1-888-398-2342 Access code: 3732275 Webinar: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4662689441953504004

Agenda: The MAC will hear a summary of the 2017 legislative session. Staff from the Department of Human Services and the Oregon Health Authority will update the committee on Integrated Eligibility efforts. The MAC will discuss and potentially finalize draft guiding principles for Oregon Medicaid (in response to federal Medicaid proposals). Carly Hood from the Oregon Primary Care Association will present an overview on social determinants of health.

The meeting site is accessible to people with disabilities. To request alternate formats, sign language interpreters, physical accessibility, or other reasonable accommodations, call the Oregon Health Authority at 1-800-282-8096 at least 48 hours before the meeting.

# # #

July 19, 2017

What: The Tobacco Reduction Advisory Committee is holding a public meeting.

Agenda: Legislative session debrief; proposed TPEP budget overview; TPEP public comment

When: Thursday, July 27, 1-3 p.m.

Where: Portland State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Room 1C, in Portland.

Background: The Tobacco Reduction Advisory Committee is a committee appointed by the Governor and comprised of both private organizations and state agencies dedicated to the reduction of the harmful impact of Oregonians' tobacco use.

Details: The meeting is open to the public. Please note that space is limited.

Individuals requiring accommodation may request alternate formats, sign language interpreters, physical accessibility, or other reasonable accommodations by calling the Oregon Health Authority at 1-800-282-8096 at least 48 hours before the meeting.

July 19, 2017

PORTLAND, Ore.--The Oregon Health Authority today announced the expansion of a youth marijuana use prevention campaign to a statewide audience.

That expansion will begin immediately. The goal of the Stay True to You campaign is to prevent or delay the initiation of marijuana use among Oregon's 12- to 20-year-old population.

In 2016, the Oregon Legislature instructed OHA to evaluate the effectiveness of youth marijuana prevention messaging by conducting a geographically limited pilot. That campaign lasted from June 2016 to June 2017 and took place in the Portland metro area, and Jackson and Josephine counties. RMC Research, an independent evaluation firm, found that the pilot campaign successfully raised awareness of the legal consequences of underage marijuana use and contributed to a correct perception that only 1 in 5 Oregon teens use marijuana.

"Research shows that our audience was receptive to the Stay True to You campaign," said Kati Moseley, policy specialist at OHA's Public Health Division. "With this expansion, youth and young adults statewide will hear the message that marijuana use should be delayed until adulthood or avoided entirely."

OHA developed the Stay True to You campaign using extensive audience research and focus groups. Twenty-eight focus groups were conducted in Portland, Bend, Medford and Pendleton featuring 260 youth and young adults between 14 and 20 years old. Participants from the African American, Asian and Pacific Islander, white, American Indian/Alaskan native and Latino communities were included. DHM Research (Davis, Hibbitts, & Midghall Inc.), contracted by OHA to facilitate all focus groups, conducted groups in English and Spanish between October 2015 and March 2016.

"Our focus group research showed youth and young adults are eager for more information on the effects of marijuana use," Moseley said. "Though research into marijuana use isn't as extensive as that on alcohol or tobacco, there is sufficient evidence that using marijuana can have a significant effect on developing brains."

The facts cited in the campaign on brain development and marijuana's effects on learning are based on reviews of the current science by OHA's Retail Marijuana Scientific Advisory Committee.

OHA's role following the legalization of marijuana is to educate the public about the health issues related to marijuana use; prevent youth marijuana use; and monitor marijuana use, attitudes and health effects. OHA will publish final research results of the pilot campaign evaluation late this summer.

The statewide campaign will advertise across a variety of media, but the bulk of advertising will take place on digital and streaming video to most effectively reach the youth audience. Other campaign elements include a social media presence (#StayTrueOregon), a website (StayTrueToYou.org) and promotions and outreach to organizations where youth gather.

July 17, 2017

Reduced blue-green algae and toxin levels confirmed in areas except Perry South Cove, where continued caution recommended

The Oregon Health Authority has updated the health advisory issued June 30 for Lake Billy Chinook, located about 12 miles west of Madras in Jefferson County.
The update lifts the advisory on those areas of the Deschutes and Crooked River of Lake Billy Chinook arms affected by the advisory, and confines the advisory on the Metolius Arm to Perry South Cove.
Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of blue-green algae toxins are below guideline values for human exposure. However, OHA recommends that people remain cautious when using the lake, particularly with pets because toxins are still well above the very low exposure levels established for dogs.
Oregon health officials advise recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of algae blooms in all Oregon waters, because only a fraction of the many lakes and waterways in Oregon are sampled for blue-green algae by state, federal and local agencies. People and their pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red in color, if a thick mat of blue-green algae is visible in the water, or bright green cells are suspended in the water column. If you observe these signs in the water you are encouraged to avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities.

For health information, to report human or pet illnesses due to blooms, or to ask questions about a news release, contact the Oregon Health Authority at 971-673-0400. For information about advisories issued or lifted for the season, contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://healthoregon.org/hab and select "Algae Bloom Advisories."
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July 17, 2017

What: OHA and the State Health Assessment Steering Committee will hold an informational webinar.

Agenda: Provide an overview of public health modernization; review findings from the 2016 public health modernization assessment; discuss how understanding of Oregon's public health system can be used to inform the state health assessment.

When: Monday, July 31, 2-4 p.m. The meeting is open to the public. A 10-minute public comment period is at 3:50 p.m.; comments are limited to three minutes.

Where: Join the webinar at: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/762040006992861187 . For audio dial the conference call line: 1-877-848-7030, access code 2030826#.

Oregon's revised State Health Assessment is one of three prerequisites for public health accreditation. The assessment describes the health of the population and identifies areas for improvement, contributing factors that impact health outcomes, and assets and resources that can be mobilized to improve population health.

See the following reference documents:
--Public health modernization at http://www.healthoregon.org/modernization
--2016 public health modernization assessment at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/ABOUT/TASKFORCE/Documents/PHModernizationFullDetailedReport.pdf
--State Health Assessment at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/ABOUT/Pages/state-health-assessment.aspx

Program contact: Christy Hudson, 971-673-2284, Christy.j.hudson@state.or.us

The Oregon State Marine Board will conduct its week-long law enforcement jet boat course on the Rogue River during the week of July 24 -- July 27. This intensive course focuses on boat operation, marine law, swift water rescue, and boat trailering.

The training focuses on honing boat operating skills. "This is critical training for law enforcement and this is the best place to do it," says Dale Flowers, Law Enforcement Training Coordinator for the Marine Board. "We've selected this week to hopefully minimize disruption to recreational boaters, but we still request the public's patience. The students will need room to work because they will be very focused on reading the river, avoiding other boaters, and navigating whitewater, wind and chop." Students who attend the Marine Board's Whitewater Jet Boat Training bring a range of skills from the novice operator to advanced operator.

"One of the goals of the training is to pair up an experienced marine deputy with a new jet boat operator. It's a one-of-a-kind learning opportunity for everyone who participates, and the only course in the nation with this level of attention," Flowers adds.

Signs will be posted at local access sites about the training operations and notices have also been sent to all the registered fishing guides in the area. In addition to boat handling exercises in whitewater conditions, marine deputies will also learn how to dis-assemble service and reassemble jet pumps, learn anchoring and chocking techniques, and how to navigate all stages of whitewater rapids. "Fast action and skill are required by marine officers, and this kind of training can mean the difference between a saved life or not," Flowers says.

The Marine Board contracts with 32 Sheriff's Offices and the Oregon State Police for marine law enforcement services, including search and rescue operations, and boating safety education. Contracts with the County Sheriff's Offices are paid for through motorboat registrations and titling fees.

For more information about the Marine Board and law enforcement services, visit http://www.oregon.gov/OSMB/info/Pages/AboutUs.aspx.
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News Release
Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 19, 2017

Media Contact:
Chris Havel, Director's Office, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
Cell: 503-931-2590

Reported shark sightings in Cannon Beach and Seaside prompt advisory

Cannon Beach OR -- A person surfing off the north Oregon coast around Haystack Rock near Cannon Beach, and a visitor in Seaside both reported shark sightings Tuesday, July 18. State park staff have posted advisory signs in both areas. No injuries were reported. The beaches will remain open, and the advisory signs will stay up for several weeks at least.

As a natural, wild place, people coming to the Oregon coast can prepare themselves to enjoy the ocean shore by visiting http://respectthebeach.org/. For people using the ocean offshore, especially surfers, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department recommends consulting fellow surfers for advice since the agency doesn't manage the ocean shore below low tide. In an emergency, beach visitors should call 911 and explain their location in as much detail as possible. Many developed beach accesses have signs with names and numbers to help visitors pinpoint their location.

The size and species of the sightings are unknown, and the reports haven't been verified. More than a dozen shark species live off the Oregon coast.


Attached Media Files: Standard shark sighting sign posted in Oregon