The investigation into Tuesday night's fire that destroyed Oney's Restaurant and Lounge on Highway 26 east of Seaside has determined it to be an arson-cause fire. Information regarding a possible reward by the Oregon Arson Awards Fund is made available to help in this investigation.

On May 6, 2008 at approximately 10:47 p.m. fire personnel from Elsie Vinemaple, Vernonia, Banks, Seaside, Gearhart, Hamlet, and Mist-Birkenfeld departments responded to the fire at 43128 Highway 26. The approximate 8500 square foot building originally constructed in 1927 was a total loss with fire damage estimated in excess of $770,000.

Investigators from Oregon State Police Arson & Explosives Section, Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office, Elsie Vinemaple Fire Department, Clatsop County Fire Investigation Team, and Clatsop County Sheriff's Office conducted an initial fire investigation that led to the determination the fire origin was on an exterior wall and was arson-caused.

Any tips related to this fire investigation can be called into the Oregon Arson Hotline at 800-452-7888, a toll-free statewide hotline to encourage citizens to provided information (anonymous if requested) on arson crimes, that may lead to the arrest and conviction of arsonists. The lead investigator on this case is Clatsop County Sheriff's Office Detective Mike Smith.

The Oregon Council Against Arson, in partnership with the NW Insurance Council and the Oregon Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI), have a $5,000 Arson Awards Fund designed to encourage citizens to step forward and help identify arsonists. According to the IAAI, only 17 percent of all arson investigations result in convictions. Tips from citizens can make the difference between catching an arsonist and that arsonist from roaming the streets and starting more fires.

Credible information from citizens leading to an arrest or conviction of arsonists is considered for nomination for an award from the fund. The Arson Awards Committee reviews nominations and determine an appropriate monetary award.

More information regarding the Oregon Arson Award System is available on the Oregon State Police web site at the following link:

http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/AES/OCAA.shtml

And, on the IAAI website at: http://www.or-iaai.net/OCAAf.htm .

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 050608.oneys.1.JPG

May 9, 2008

In 47 courtrooms around the state hundreds of Oregonians are getting a chance to turn their lives around -- and if they're successful, to avoid jail and break the cycle of drug use, addiction and criminal behavior.

Men and women who've committed non-violent drug offenses enter drug court voluntarily, but they must earn their way out of the criminal justice system by going through a long-term, structured, supervised and coordinated multi-agency treatment program.

Gov. Ted Kulongoski has proclaimed May as Drug Court Month in Oregon to recognize the success of these courts, which are located in 27 counties.

The Governor's proclamation noted that drug courts reduce addiction, crime and recidivism while promoting stable, healthy families and safe communities.

Men and women in drug court must be accountable and active in their recovery. They receive intensive judicial supervision, addiction treatment and random drug testing, and many attend meetings of recovery support groups while working with a program sponsor.

Drug courts are able to help people break addictions and criminal behavior thanks to support from prosecutors, defense attorneys, treatment providers, mental health and rehabilitation professionals, law enforcement officials, corrections officers, researchers and educators.

Drug court in action

During a recent Friday drug court session at the Marion County Courthouse in Salem, people packed into Judge Dennis Graves' courtroom to make their weekly progress reports.

Most of the three dozen participants, ranging in age from 18 to 60, arrived well before the 10 a.m. starting time. Many were attired in casual business clothing and some brought their young children, parents or grandparents.

Families are important to drug court because their support is needed to help participants break their addictions and pattern of illegal activities, Graves said.

About two dozen individuals appeared before Graves during the two-hour court session. Each summarized his or her week's activities, reporting on school or work attendance, drug testing, job hunting, medications, treatment, probation officer meetings and other court requirements.

Participants must remain in court until the session ends so that individual victories, setbacks and lessons are shared with everyone. The judge admonished several persons for missing appointments or laxity in looking for work. A mother of five was handcuffed and ordered to spend the weekend in jail for lying and violating a court order.

Women -- many working to get children released from foster care -- make up 65 percent of his caseload, said Graves. Keeping families together helps in recovery and reduces support costs for the community, he said.

During court Graves was generous with his praise, congratulating participants for another good week, or for entering a less-restrictive phase of the program, or for nearing graduation. Peer support is invited, and spirited applause peppered the courtroom each time a participant reported a successful week.

Graduating (which includes dismissal of charges) from Judge Graves' drug court isn't easy. Participants must spend a year in the program, be clean and sober for 180 days, and complete drug addiction treatment. Those without a high school diploma also must earn a GED certificate.

Recovering from addiction

The Oregon Department of Human Services Addictions and Mental Health Division supports services that are essential to drug courts, such as outpatient and residential treatment for drug and alcohol addiction, detoxification, mental health treatment, and housing and peer support services aimed at recovery.

"A comprehensive array of treatment and support services addressing addiction is an essential element of any successful drug court," said Karen Wheeler, DHS addictions policy administrator.

Evidence shows that drug courts help reduce drug use and arrests, and may reduce corrections costs for counties, according to the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission, which administers drug court grants.

But perhaps the most important incentive to participants is that drug courts consistently improve the living situation, income and employment of its graduates.

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The Portland Water Bureau was alarmed to find that a person posing as a Water Bureau employee successfully scammed $44 out of a customer last week. Showing up at her front door, the imposter demanded $40 from the customer in order to keep her water on. Coincidentally, the victim was nearing a three-day shut-off period, a warning given to customers who have not paid their bills. The customer asked the imposter if he would take a check, which he declined to do. He returned to the victim's home two hours later to collect a $40 money order from the victim, and an additional $4 that he said would, "buy her time."

The victim says that the imposter showed up at her home around 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 29, in a small, white pick-up truck bearing the name, "City of Portland" above a rose logo-like image and "Department of Water Bureau" beneath the image. The imposter was described as, "Caucasian…had a big build, reddish brown hair with a clean cut beard and mustache." He wore a white button-up shirt with embroidery identifying him either as, "Stan," or "Steve." He was described as an older man with a tattoo on his left forearm and a noticeable space (disastema) between his front teeth.

While the Water Bureau must make home visits in certain circumstances, a Water Bureau employee will never collect money from a customer at the home. Additionally, all Water Bureau employees wear clothing bearing a Water Bureau logo, carry a City of Portland identification badge with their photograph, and drive city vehicles that have, "Water Bureau," printed below the city seal logo.

The public is advised to call 9-1-1 should the imposter described above or any other suspicious person posing as a Water Bureau employee approach them. Additionally, the public is advised to call Water Bureau's Security team at 503-823-6084, with details of the incident. Water Bureau security is currently working with local police to track down this scam artist.
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Attached Media Files: vehicle image.JPG

The Salem Police Department is proud to announce that McDonald's of Salem and Keizer and the Mid-Valley Garbage and Recycling Association have both generously donated $5,000 to support the Salem Police Department D.A.R.E. program.

The Salem Police Department currently has two full-time officers and one officer assisting part-time teaching D.A.R.E. in the Salem-Keizer School District. The program teaches D.A.R.E. to approximately 2, 200 fifth grade students each year, and community sponsorship is vital in providing supplies towards the program. These donations help to purchase DARE T-shirts, supplies and gifts for every graduate.

Since 1999 the McDonald's of Salem and Keizer has donated over $41,000 to the D.A.R.E. program and actively participates in fundraisers for other school programs as well. The Mid-Valley Garbage and Recycling Association began their unique D.A.R.E. fundraising program in 1997 with numerous bright red metal containers located at schools and businesses throughout the greater Salem/Keizer area. The vivid containers are visible to the public with large red signs that are clearly marked as D.A.R.E. recycling containers for magazines and newspapers, and the proceeds of this program have totaled over $63,000 since its beginning.

D.A.R.E. stands for Drug Abuse Resistance Education. The program is a research-based and proven effective program designed to help students make good choices and stay safe. The Salem Police Department D.A.R.E. program is active in making a difference in the lives of young people in our community, and the Salem Police Department, the Salem-Keizer School District, our DARE students and their families all wish to express our sincere appreciate to McDonald's of Salem and Keizer and the Mid-Valley Garbage and Recycling Association for their generous support.

The Salem Police Department and numerous other law enforcement agencies have been working to locate the owners of over 2,000 items of suspected stolen property seized from a home and property at 9884 Mt. Angel-Gervais Rd NE, Gervais, Oregon in early January 2008. So far, property with a total value of over $380,000 has been returned to 158 victims in 28 different jurisdictions in Oregon and Washington.

The Salem Police Department has posted pictures of most of the remaining property with unidentified owners on its internet web site. The web site address is http://www.cityofsalem.net/departments/police.

Some of the more notable items remaining are: six-spinning wheels (for making yarn) and 2-hand looms. One item has "J.E. Eriksson" stamped on it, one has "Made by Ernest L. Mason" scribed on it, one says "Made in New Zealand", one says "Made in Norway", one item has "Kelly" stamped on it, one has "Ebener Portland, Or" scribed on it. There is also a wooden box containing old postcards from Europe with "Mrs. Raymond H. Baker" written it, numerous black powder pistols and rifles, assorted artwork, two large wooden antique radios and a chest full of comic books. To view these and other items remaining for identification, please refer to the website listed above.

Anybody who believes they are the rightful owners of any of the items must first have reported the crime to their local police agency. They can then print the form from the Salem Police Website, fill it out and mail it in to the Salem Police Department. Please fill the form out completely with the best description possible of each stolen item, especially any identifying marks or numbers.
For burglaries or thefts reported to the Salem Police Department, call the Salem Police crime tip hotline at (503) 588-8477. If it was reported to another agency, please contact that agency for assistance.

This investigation highlights the need for the public to safeguard their property as much as possible to keep it from getting stolen. Citizens need to have a record of serial numbers for all their property and they need to report property stolen as soon as possible to increase the possibility of having it returned intact. It is recommended citizens engrave all their property such as tools, power equipment, electronics, bicycles, and small valuables with their driver's license number in this format: state abbreviation, followed by the number, followed by "DL". Example: OR100000001DL

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 9, 2008

Preliminary water samples taken after a gallon of latex paint was discovered in Mt. Tabor's Reservoir 6 on Tuesday, May 6, 2008, reveal that trace amounts of the paint may have made it into the water distribution system served by the reservoir.

Several metals, not regularly sampled for in Portland's water system, but found in latex paint, were detected in very small amounts, (parts per billion), during the bureau's sampling event that took place Tuesday evening in the area served by Reservoir 6. The majority of the metals found were not regulated contaminants, meaning that the federal government does not regulate these contaminants in public water systems, and there are no known health effects.

Trace levels (below one part per billion) of two volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) were also detected at one site. VOC's are a group of commonly used chemicals that evaporate, or volatilize, when exposed to air. Further investigation is underway.

In collaboration with both state and county health officials, the Portland Water Bureau advises the public that there are no known health effects from the trace amounts of metals found in these samples. Water from the tap continues to be safe for consumption.

Additional follow up samples were collected Thursday, May 8, both in the distribution system which is served by Reservoir 6, and from other areas in the system which do not get water from this reservoir, as a sampling control mechanism. These samples will help determine if the trace amounts of metals found in the Tuesday samples are indeed from the latex paint. In addition, the container found in the reservoir was sent to the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Public Health Lab for further testing. Results from these tests should be available early next week.

"We absolutely intend to catch this vandal and prosecute him or her to the fullest extent of the law. I drink this water. My neighbors drink this water. Our customers drink this water. This person has essentially come into our homes and assaulted us all," said Water Bureau Administrator David Shaff.

The Water Bureau will continue this investigation by looking further into reports of the incident and by reviewing security footage. While an initial review of the video footage revealed nothing, more intensive screening of the footage will occur over the next several days. The Water Bureau encourages anyone who has any information about this incident to call our security staff at 503-823-6084.

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Subhead: Clark College student Vasile Dediu, who moved to America from Moldova last February, is a semifinalist in the international 2008 "Film Your Issue" competition

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Clark College student Vasile Dediu has been named a semifinalist in the international 2008 "Film Your Issue" competition, which was launched in February 2008 at the United Nations.

"Film Your Issue" is an international initiative and competition to engage global young adults 14 to 24 in pressing social issues via the creation of two-minute films on any issues, in partnership with USA TODAY, MySpace, MTV, the United Nations, the Associated Press, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the NAACP, Sony Pictures Entertainment, the Humane Society of the United States, the American Film Institute and other organizations.

HeathCliff Rothman, president of "Film Your Issue," said the "Film Your Issue" editorial team selected Vasile Dediu's film "The LIFE" as one of 35 semifinalists to be submitted to a panel of judges for the competition's Jury Prize. The jury is led by journalists Tom Brokaw and Walter Cronkite and also includes CNN news anchor Wolf Blitzer, NBC news anchor Brian Williams, the UN Under-Secretary-General, the president of USA TODAY and others.

The winner will receive an award at the Film Your Issue 2008 Awards Ceremony in Los Angeles at Sony Pictures Studios on June 6, 2008. The ceremony will be co-hosted by Sony Pictures Entertainment, USA TODAY, Best Buy, MySpace Impact, Think MTV and Wells Fargo.

"The LIFE" has also been selected as one of the semi-finalists for public voting online on MySpace, in the running for the FYI-MySpace Audience Award: http://www.myspace.com/filmyourissue. The winning film will be featured across the MySpace platforms. The voting is currently underway, and the deadline is May 13 at 5 p.m. PT.

The film has also been selected by MTV as a semifinalist for its FYI–MTV Audience Award, and it has been posted online for public voting: http://think.mtv.com/groups/FilmYourIssue.
The winner will be profiled on MTV News. This voting is also currently underway, and the deadline is May 13.

Vasile Dediu's film "The LIFE" is available online at
http://think.mtv.com/044FDFFFF009D224F00170098E596/.

About Vasile Dediu and "The LIFE"

A native of Moldova, Vasile Dediu came to Vancouver, Washington in February 2008 and enrolled at Clark College for spring quarter. He is currently studying math while majoring in computer science.

Dediu says computer games have had a great influence on his life. "At the age of 16, I began to find information about computer games. I found out that virtual worlds are created by using 3D graphics applications." Dediu studied 3D Studio MAX on his own and, in his words, "understood that 3D animation is a great way to express myself, to create my story."

At the age of 18, Dediu decided to make a movie, "something I had never seen." That 10-minute film was a "Matrix" parody based on the computer game "Counter-Strike," developed by Valve.

Dediu continued his film making efforts, creating 3D scenes for other moviemakers and projects for Alecu Russo State University in Moldova. The Republic of Moldova is located east of Romania and northwest of Ukraine.

Dediu read about "Film Your Issue" competition on MySpace.com. "I thought that it is a great chance to make new friends and a better life," he said. "I made a 3D-film, 'The LIFE,' about a boy who saw that life is dark because of four issues: ‘Poorness,' ‘Violence,' ‘Homeless animals' and ‘Crime.' He wished strongly to change the world."

Dediu added, "This film shows that ‘Wish' is a strong power and a strong ‘Wish' can change the world."


About Film Your Issue

A record-breaking 500 film submissions were received in the fourth annual FYI–Film Your Issue competition (www.filmyourissue.com), a global forum about local and international social issues, inviting youth ages 14 to 24 to address contemporary issues with two-minute short films on issues that impact their generation.

"Film Your Issue" President HeathCliff Rothman noted, "This unprecedented consortium has joined forces to encourage young adults to add their voices to the public dialogue, using the power of the Internet and user generated content."

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PORTLAND, Ore. (May 9, 2008) – Jackie Babicky-Peterson of the Portland Community College Small Business Development Center is set to receive the Portland Business Alliance first ever President's Award at its annual breakfast meeting, 7:30 to 9 a.m., Wednesday, May 14, at the Oregon Convention Center.

The Alliance's annual meeting is one of the state's largest gatherings of business professionals and civic leaders. This year's meeting, "A Celebration of Business," recognizes Babicky-Peterson and several other area business leaders who have made Portland's business community what it is today.

"The President's Award gives special recognition to an individual who, year after year, has supported the work of the Alliance on behalf of business in our region," said Sandra McDonough, president and CEO of the Alliance. "It is fitting that Jackie is the first recipient of this award as her career has been marked with firsts, including serving as the first woman to chair the Portland chamber."

Babicky-Peterson, a resident of Northeast Portland, has been a leading advocate for small businesses in the metropolitan area. In 2002, she joined the Small Business Development Center as the director of education to bring entrepreneurial development and technical assistance to small business. Through a combination of classroom teaching and one-on-one individual counseling to businesses, her work with the SBDC has helped numerous businesses achieve growth and success. She has also developed entrepreneurial programs such as "Bringing Your Recipe to Market," which teamed the SBDC with the Food Innovation Center of Oregon State University to help aspiring food entrepreneurs.

Through her involvement with the Alliance, Babicky-Peterson founded several small-business committees, activities and programs, including a program that is now the successful Oregon Entrepreneurs Network. She was a founding member of the Alliance Board of Directors and also chaired the Small Business Council. She is the chair of the Small Business Advisory Council to the Portland City Council and was instrumental in the recent development and passage of the city of Portland's "Small Business Bill of Rights."

PCC President Preston Pulliams said, "Jackie Babicky-Peterson defines leadership when it comes to small business. This honor is richly deserved. All of the members of Portland Community College and the Small Business Development Center are privileged to work with Jackie and join me in congratulating her on receiving the President's Award."

Babicky-Peterson, a certified public accountant, owned her own company prior to her position with Portland Community College. She was also the chief financial officer for Yolo Colorhouse, an environmentally friendly wall paint company. Recently retired from Portland Community College full time, she continues to teach and coach small businesses at the SBDC's Lloyd Center offices.

The Small Business Development Center of Portland Community College is part of a statewide network of SBDCs that help small business growth and development in Oregon. The Portland Business Alliance, founded in 1870 as the Portland Chamber of Commerce, is made up of 1,300 members representing more than 325,000 business people in the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area.

Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon, serving approximately 86,700 full- and part-time students. For more PCC news, please visit us on the Web at www.pcc.edu/news. PCC has three comprehensive campuses, five workforce training and education centers, and 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.


Attached Media Files: Jackie Babicky Peterson.JPG

PORTLAND, Ore. (May 9, 2008) – Portland Community College is one of five colleges nationwide and the only community college to take part in an innovative project designed to teach students how to be philanthropists.

Through Campus Compact and the Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund, PCC received a $15,000 grant to establish an annual program, Students4Giving: Inspiring Philanthropy, which educates students about the importance of philanthropy by allowing them to fund community projects. The five schools are PCC, Boston University, California State University-Fresno, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Whitworth University in Spokane, Wash. The five schools were selected from among 35 proposals.

During winter term, students in the project reviewed proposals of 20 nonprofit organizations and chose four recipients to receive a total of $10,000. The remaining $5,000 will be used as seed money to continue the project for future years.

Two classes join forces

The PCC Students4Giving: Inspiring Philanthropy's Future Project is a collaborative effort between a social issues and movements sociology course taught by Kim Smith and an introduction to accounting business course with instructor Cynthia Killingsworth. Both are based at the Sylvania Campus, 12000 S.W. 49th Ave.

"Cynthia and I are both moved by how much the students have learned from this project," Smith said. "We hope that this growing movement to teach students about the value of community service and philanthropy will continue. Indeed, the future already looks brighter."

The project linked both courses to showcase the importance of understanding social issues, the grant-making process, and the role played by philanthropists and nonprofit organizations in meeting the needs of our communities.

"I found Students4Giving to be a very unique and rewarding experience," said student Bridget Berg of Southeast Portland. "My father was the director of a world wide nonprofit so I know first hand how important it is for these organizations to get these grants. I had no idea, however, what went into the review process."

Berg is in her third term at PCC and is planning to get her accounting certificate, but also wants to transfer to a four-year college for a business degree. Berg was in the group of accounting students that reviewed the proposals and conducted site visits. They are now working to write a grant application to raise money so that future students can learn how to do philanthropy projects. She said she found the financial reviews of the non-profits to be most valuable not only to her education, but to the art of narrowing down the applicants.

"It makes me appreciate the people who do this every day and with many more organizations," Berg added.

"Actually, working with the other class was great," said sociology student Brian Tompkins of Newberg. "There was no way we could have done this on our own. Both classes really worked hard and gave it their all for the good of the project. Any information exchanged between the two classes was quick and efficient."

Tompkins is an English major, who is in his first year at PCC. He plans to transfer to the University of Oregon to finish his bachelor's degree, with an emphasis on creative writing. Tompkins said he learned about many nonprofits he had never heard of, all doing good work in the community.

"I wanted to give money to everyone who sent us an application," Tompkins admitted. "Narrowing down that list of 20 organizations was pretty hard. I learned a lot of ways that I could make a difference, through money, time, or even just spreading the word."

$10,000 dispersed to nonprofits on TV

The recipients of the inaugural Students4Giving campaign include: $3,500 to Friends of the Children for obtaining software licensing to operate the FASTT Math Program for youth and paying staff to install and test the program; $2,500 to Community Energy Project for development of the Volunteer Services Revitalization Project to help train volunteers to weatherize homes of those in need; $2,500 to Sisters of the Road Café to support the Hot Meals/Barter Program; and $1,500 to CASA for Children for the recruitment, training and supervision of a volunteer who will serve as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for foster children.

The money given to Friends of the Children also supported KATU News and Family Matters' fundraising efforts through "Oprah's Big Give: Portland Pays it Forward," which raised a total of $166,117 for Friends of the Children. PCC students and instructor Kim Smith attended the "AM Northwest" show on KATU, where Smith presented Terri Sorenson, the executive director of Friends of the Children, with a check from Students4Giving.

Focus switches to continuing project

The instructors and students will shift their attention this spring to the sustainability of the Students4Giving Project. The PCC Foundation and Service-Learning program have offered to provide guidance on the logistics of continuing the project through student support, fund-raising and grant initiatives. In addition, Smith and Killingsworth are talking about new ways to integrate philanthropy into their courses, including the potential development of a nonprofit management course.

Partnerships with other community groups also are being developed, including an independent project with the city of Portland's Vision into Action Coalition, which is allowing business and sociology students to review and provide grants to youth-sponsored projects, in accordance with criteria set by the Bill of Rights for the Children and Youth of the city of Portland and Multnomah County.

Tompkins will help with that effort, through the Community Service and Action Seminar. He's not new to volunteering as he has spent five years volunteering at his local public library in Newberg, helping with everything from shelving books to coordinating in-house programs. He walks every year at the Relay for Life event to raise money for cancer research. But these opportunities aren't always there, so he said he wanted a new chance to give back through Students4Giving.

"I needed to work some more of that positive energy into my daily life," he said. "This project has reminded me of that, and gave me a push in the right direction."

Berg has continued to work with Students4Giving this term as well and said, "As students, we might not have the time and money to give away, but only five to 10 hours of service can make all the difference."

Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon, serving approximately 86,700 full- and part-time students. For more PCC news, please visit us on the Web at www.pcc.edu/news. PCC has three comprehensive campuses, five workforce training and education centers, and 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.


Attached Media Files: briantompkins.JPG , bridgetberg.JPG

2008 OMSI Ongoing Calendar of Events
OMSI e-newsroom: http://www.omsi.edu/info/pr/

OMSI REGULAR HOURS
9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Tues. – Sun.
(Open Mondays when Portland Public Schools are closed)

OMSI SUMMER HOURS
9:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Daily beginning June 14

OMSI CONTACT INFO
Phone: 503.797.4000
Website: www.omsi.edu

FEATURED EXHIBITS

Now on exhibit through Sept. 1- Dinosaurs: China's Ancient Giants
Travel back in time 200 million years and witness China's most spectacular ancient inhabitants in the largest collection of authentic Chinese fossils ever toured. Dinosaurs: China's Ancient Giants features 17 complete dinosaur skeletons (both casts and fossils), a "dig pit" where kids of all ages can become paleontologists for a day, and a 67 foot-long adult Mamenchisaurus—the longest-necked dinosaur ever! This exhibit comes to OMSI in part through the generous support of regional sponsors Key Bank, Mentor Graphics, and The Standard.

Opens May 23- Let's Get Active
Get up and get moving to Let's Get Active, a new interactive exhibit about the fun and interesting ways to stay active. Try the electronic jump rope to see how jumping builds bone for life, step on the balance board and learn why good balance is important for people of all ages, or test your strength and compare results to national averages. Visitors can learn how to reduce TV/computer time, prevent disease, and burn as many calories doing everyday activities such as gardening or cleaning as playing sports.

Opens Sept. 27- Mindbender Mansion
Meet the Mindbender Society, a group of eccentric scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and inventors who have entertained themselves and their guests for generations by filling their eclectic Mindbender Mansion with a variety of inventive brain teasers, puzzles, and challenges. Visitors to the mansion are invited to join the Mindbender Society by using their problem-solving, creative, and critical thinking skills to solve individual brain teasers and large-scale group challenges, including manipulating a tilt table, maneuvering a flying machine, and disco hopscotch spelling.


COMMUNITY AND ADULT EVENTS

Nanotech Forum – Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology in Health and Healing
May 10, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m., OMSI Auditorium
From invisible sunscreen to highly specific cancer detectors, new nanotechnology applications are everywhere, and they have the potential to dramatically transform the medical world. This forum combines a presentation by Dr. Jim Hutchinson, professor of chemistry and the director of the University of Oregon Materials Science Institute, with informal small-group discussions to consider the potential health benefits of nanomedicine, along with possible impacts. Forums are free and open to the public, but registration is required.

Science of Juggling
May 17-18
Discover the role science plays in the awe-inspiring art of juggling! Former Smithsonian artist-in-residence, Rhys Thomas, brings together gravity, inertia, and other science topics with bowling ball juggling, an acrobatic ladder, glass bowl spinning, and more. Visitors can give their own skills a work out, guided by educators from Portland's Amazama Juggling School. Event is included with paid museum admission.

Mars Landing
May 25
OMSI will offer space exploration enthusiasts a front-row seat for NASA's Phoenix Lander touch down on Mars. Scheduled for May 25 at 4:36 p.m. PDT, Phoenix will parachute from orbit and touch down on the outskirts of Mars' northern polar ice cap, joining the Mars exploration rovers Spirit and Opportunity.

The Mars landing will be shown in the OMSI Auditorium via a non-stop live link from NASA. Doors will open to the public at 3:00 p.m. to coincide with the NASA's live broadcast and seating is on first-come-first-serve basis. This event is included with paid museum admission. Pending a successful landing and contact, the first images from Phoenix are scheduled to be seen around 7:00 p.m.


43rd Annual Shell Show
June 19-22
View rare and beautiful shells from around the world at the 43rd Annual Shell Show, presented by the Oregon Society of Conchologists. Win a shell at the popular prize wheel and dig in a sandbox to learn how to find and identify types of shells. Find out how to start your own collection and watch a special presentation about mollusks. Event is included with paid museum admission.

Reptile and Amphibian Show
Aug. 30–Sept. 1
Crawl, slither and creep your way back to this popular event. The Reptile and Amphibian Show is back this year with some great additions and old favorites. From the rainforest to the desert to the mountains, nearly 200 assorted animals will be at OMSI for one of the largest shows in the Pacific Northwest. Get "hands-on" in our special Reptile Handling Area, learn from local experts and professionals about animal care and ownership, and see which animals are wild and native to the Northwest. Event is included with paid museum admission.

Brainstorm: Engaging with the Experts
This adult discussion series includes presentations by experts followed by ample time for Q&A. Visit http://www.omsi.edu/brainstorm for more information.
Cost: Free for OMSI members, $10 for adults (ticket stub good for $10 off an OMSI membership); $5 for students and seniors.

May 20- Unearthing China's Dragons, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m., OMSI Auditorium
Fossil excavator and preparator at the Utah Geological Survey, Judy Sanders looks at some of the fossil discoveries in China, where they were made, and why dinosaurs half-way around the world are important to the study of dinosaurs in North America.

OMSI Science Pub
Meet with researchers and scientists at these monthly, informal science education events held in Portland and Eugene. Visit http://www.omsi.edu/sciencepub for more information.

Portland: Last Monday of every month at Mission Theater, 1624 NW Glisan, 7:00 p.m.

May 19– Sex, Relationships, and Technology (one week early due to Memorial Day)
How has the internet affected our sexuality and sexual relationships? Can a person truly fall in love with someone online? How has "sex-tech" altered our view of intimacy? Hear from L. Kris Gowen, PhD, about how the Internet is rewriting the rules of romance and some of the fundamental principles of psychology as well.

June 30– Does Solar Make Sense in Oregon?
Learn about the benefits of solar energy and how it can meet a large portion of our energy needs. Stuart Green of Solar Oregon will explain why, even with Oregon's rainy weather, solar energy is the state's largest resource for renewable energy.

July 28- Your World in a Box: The Port of Portland and Global Trade
Discussion with Barry Horowitz, Port of Portland

August 25- What's Love Got To Do With It: Sex for Social Bonding in Bonobos
Discussion with Frances White, PhD, University of Oregon

Eugene: The second Thursday of every month at Cozmic Pizza, 199 W 8th Ave, 7:00 p.m.

May 8– The Stem Cell Debate: Science, Ethics, and Public Policy
Explore questions surrounding ethical limits of embryo manipulation and how results of advances in stem cell technology can be distributed in a time of limited resources. Lisa Sardinia PhD, JD, associate professor of biology at Pacific University and associate director of the Pacific Institute for Ethics and Social Policy, will be leading the discussion.

June 12– Black Holes: From Science Fantasy to Strange Reality
Professor of mathematics and director of the Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of Oregon, Jim Isenberg Ph.D. will present the latest research and theories about black holes and how gravitational radiation detectors help us understand these captivating astrophysical objects.

July 10– The Evolution of Open Fracture Care: From Plaster to Titanium
Thomas K. Wuest, MD will discuss applicable biomechanical principles of fracture care, case histories, and surgical and x-ray imaging. Discover what happens when bones aren't where they are supposed to be.


OMNIMAX FILMS: OMNIMAX Hotline 503.797.4640

Opens June 3- Dinosaurs Alive!
Scientifically accurate, computer-generated animation brings dinosaurs back to life! Join renowned paleontologists on a journey through time as they discover new fossils and uncover evidence that dinosaur descendents still walk (and fly) among us.

Opens June 5- Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs
Watch ancient wonders brought to life in this new giant screen film that unravels the mysteries of mummies, recreates the dramatic story of their recovery, and weaves in a stunning modern-day forensic adventure.

Now playing- Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure
Travel back to the Late Cretaceous, when a great inland sea divided North America in two. The film follows a curious and adventurous dolichorynchops—known as Dolly—as she travels through the most dangerous oceans in history.

Now playing- Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk
Set against the majestic backdrop of the Grand Canyon, audiences take an exhilarating river-rafting adventure down the Colorado River with world-renowned environmental activist, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and eminent anthropologist, Wade Davis, to raise awareness about water conservation, river restoration, and individual responsibility.


PLANETARIUM SHOWS: Planetarium Hotline: 503.797.4610

Opens June 10- Extreme Planets
Visit a world where liquid rock breaks against a pitch-black shoreline of molten lava, or one with a madly spinning burned-out sun above. Extreme Planets takes viewers on a tour of places so strange and exotic, they once were found only in science fiction

Now playing through June 8- Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity
Zip through other-worldly wormholes, experience the creation of the Milky Way galaxy, and witness the death of a star and the subsequent birth of a black hole. Black Holes offers viewers the most complete picture yet of this mysterious phenomenon. Narrated by Liam Neeson.

Now playing- Cosmic Collisions
At first glance, the nigh sky appears calm and peaceful, but travel deep into space and the reality are different. Cosmic Collisions reveals the explosive encounters that shaped our solar system, changed the course of life on Earth, and continue to transform our galaxy and universe today. Narrated by Robert Redford.

Now playing- Pacific Northwest Skies
Visit the stars, constellations and celestial highlights that can be seen above the Pacific Northwest Region.


DAYTIME LASER SHOWS:

Opens June 10- Laser Jukebox
Noon, 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Daily
Now playing through June 8- Laser Celestial Odyssey
3:00 p.m. Tues. through Fri.; 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. weekends and holidays


EVENING LASER SHOWS (Fridays and Saturdays only):

May - 9:30 p.m. Laser Nirvana / 10:45 p.m. Laser Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
June - 9:30 p.m. Laser Zepplin / 10:45 p.m. Laser Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
July - 9:30 p.m. Laser Rush / 10:45 p.m. Laser Pink Floyd: The Wall


STAR PARTIES: Star Party Hotline: 503.797.4610

OMSI, Rose City Astronomers, and Oregon Parks and Recreation host monthly, free Star Parties in Rooster Rock State Park. View the planets, moon, stars, and other celestial sights through telescopes and binoculars. From beginners to experts, all ages are invited. Star Parties may be cancelled due to weather; call the hotline or visit www.omsi.edu for the latest information.

May 10- Astronomy Day
June 14- Summer Solstice Celebration
July 12- Lunar Viewing
Aug. 11- Perseid Meteor Shower Watch

Annual awards ceremony highlights work by Officers, citizens in past year

This year, National Law Enforcement Week, honoring all law enforcement officers throughout the country, will take place from May 11-17. Gresham Police are making blue ribbons available to all citizens to wear or place on their vehicles, to honor law enforcement officers in the area. The ribbons are available in the reception area of the Gresham Police Department.

Additionally, Gresham Police will hold their annual awards ceremony, honoring Officers and citizens who have made outstanding contributions to the Police Department and/or community, as recognized by Gresham Police. The ceremony will be held in the Blackberry Room at McMenamins Edgefield on Wednesday May 14th.

Among those honored will be a citizen who assisted Officers in apprehending a knife-welding subject who had threatened citizens on a MAX train. Additionally, Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) is honoring the top four officers who tallied the most DUII arrests for the year.
WHAT: GPD awards ceremony/National Law Enforcement Week.
WHERE: McMenamins, Edgefield 2126 SW Halsey, Troutdale
WHEN: Wednesday May 14, 2008, Hors d'oeuvres 5:30 to 6:30. Ceremony at 6:30 p.m.

Washington State University Vancouver presents the third in the Chancellor's Seminar Series's spring season, entitled "Climate Change: Fact or Fiction?" This campus lunchtime presentation takes place noon to 1:30 p.m. Friday, May 16, in the Firstenburg Student Commons.

Ticket price for each seminar is $30 per person, including lunch and parking. For more information and to register, see http://www.vancouver.wsu.edu/css, call 360-546-9600, or visit http://www.vancouverusa.com to purchase tickets online. Advance registration deadline is Friday, May 9.

"The Chancellor's Seminar Series offers an outstanding lineup of speakers from within the WSU community of experts - along with national experts from outside of our institution—to address issues impacting Clark County residents," said WSU Vancouver Chancellor Hal Dengerink. "We hope that the Chancellor's Seminar Series will promote civic engagement and education for all in our community."

By bringing some of the nation's leading experts to Southwest Washington, WSU Vancouver seeks to stimulate creative and innovative public debate and conversation regarding the important issues.

In "Climate Change: Fact or Fiction?" George Mount, professor at the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at WSU, examines the implications of climate change from policy makers to scientists to conservationists to business owners and the ordinary citizen.

WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave., east of the 134th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205, or via C-Tran bus service. WSU Vancouver offers 16 bachelor's degrees, nine master's degrees, one doctorate degree and more than 35 fields of study. Visit us on the Web at http://www.vancouver.wsu.edu.


Attached Media Files: Support-4-009041.jpg

An email has recently been circulating ‘warning' people about an upcoming 21-day initiative to write as many speeding tickets as possible in the Portland metro area to generate revenue. The email appears to mostly targeting Oregon State Police (OSP) as the law enforcement agency that will be heading up the alleged effort, resulting in several people and area media contacting OSP asking if this is true.

OSP Captain Gerry Gregg, Director of the Patrol Services Division, stressed that a citation should never be issued for the purpose of generating revenue and the information in the email has no merit and is untruthful.

"The Oregon State Police does from time to time conduct saturation patrols in areas where there are identified problems that could be addressed through increased Department and interagency patrol efforts. These problems could specifically be factors causing an unusual number of traffic crashes, or it could be an effective way to handle area events or high traffic volume periods such as major holiday weekends. Our objectives at all times are to reduce crashes, detect and stop dangerous drivers, and to gain voluntary compliance with our traffic laws," said Captain Gregg.

OSP asks anyone who receives such an email to not forward to others as suggested so it does not falsely alarm others. A copy of the email content is provided with this news release.

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: web site speed.doc

Ginger May, Educator, Water Resources Education Center, 360-487-7111

And don't forget to mark your calendar for Sturgeon Festival, coming soon!

Mother Nature provides the ingredients for celebrating mothers everywhere at this month's Second Saturday, from 1 to 3 p.m., May 10, at the Water Resources Education Center, 4600 SE Columbia Way.

This month's Second Saturday theme is Mother Nature's Gifts, highlighting the treasures for unique and thoughtful gifts for our own mothers. Leaves, seeds, soil, mud, paint and more will be combined in creative ways to make projects such as refrigerator magnets, mud cloths, rain sticks and a paper pot, complete with seed to take home.

Second Saturdays at the Water Resources Education Center are fun and free! Each second Saturday of the month, from 1 to 3 p.m., offers a different topic and hands-on activities, games and stories. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Nature lovers take note: New and familiar activities and fun are waiting for you at this year's Sturgeon Festival, noon to 4 p.m., May 31 and June 1, at the Water Center.

Lively demonstrations and hands-on activities are planned for this year's popular weekend event, designed to encourage people of all ages to discover the many facets of the Columbia River ecosystems in which we live. Enjoy presentations by Eartha the Clown, storyteller Ed Edmo, Wild on Wildlife, Gracie Learns the 3 Rs Puppet Shows, fish dissections, Portland Audubon Birds of Prey and the Creature Feature Reptile Zoo. In addition to the many scheduled performers, other local agencies and organizations will be leading hands-on activities geared for youth and offering fun for all ages during the festival. This year's festival also includes recognition of those students who entered the student Sturgeon Festival photo contest, open to amateur photographers from Grades 3 through College. The family friendly Sturgeon Festival is co-sponsored by the City of Vancouver and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Best of all, admission is free!

Looking for additional information on what's happening at the Water Center? Visit us at www.cityofvancouver.us/watercenter.


ABOUT THE WATER RESOURCES EDUCATION CENTER:

Overlooking the Columbia River, the City of Vancouver's Water Resources Education Center offers exhibits, events and educational programs designed to teach us all how to be excellent stewards of water resources and how to use water wisely. The Water Center, a division of the City's Department of Public Works, is also caretaker of one the metropolitan area's few remaining natural Columbia River riparian areas, nearly 50 protected acres of adjacent wetlands providing feeding, nesting and resting habitat for more than 120 species of fish and wildlife. The center is part of the Vancouver National Historic Reserve.


The Water Center's general hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays. From Interstate 5 or Interstate 205, take state Highway 14 to Exit 1. Turn south under the highway, then east at the Columbia Shores intersection onto Columbia Way and head east about 3 miles to the Center. More information is available on the Internet at www.cityofvancouver.us/watercenter or by calling (360) 487-7111.



Contact Info: ginger.may@ci.vancouver.wa.us

At approximatley 7:02 PM on May 8th, a two car head on collision occurred in the 20900 block of NE WH Garner Rd, in rural Clark County.
An 18 year old male from the Battle Ground area was west bound and as he rounded a curve it appears that his vehicle drifted into the oncoming lane striking a east bound vehicle head on. The driver of the second car is a 29 year man from Yacolt.
The 18 year old was Life Flighted to OSHU where it was later learned that he was in a stablized conditon. The Yacolt resident was transported to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
The accident is being investigated by the Clark County Traffic Unit.

Suspect wanted in connection with Dundee shooting

The Newberg-Dundee Police Department, in cooperation with the Yamhill County Major Crimes Team, is requesting the public's assistance locating the following suspect wanted in connection with the shooting near Lumpy's Landing tavern in Dundee on April 30, 2008.

Willard "Billy" Wayne Waggoner, 32, DOB 1/14/1976, is wanted for attempted murder and assault in the first degree. Anyone with information about Waggoner or his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Newberg-Dundee Police Department or local law enforcement.

Waggoner should be considered armed and dangerous and no attempt should be made to apprehend him yourself.

Waggoner is a white male, 5'6", 140 pounds, blue eyes, brown hair, with multiple tattoos on both arms.

Anyone with information should contact the Newberg-Dundee Police Department at (503)538-8321. Media inquiries may call the Yamhill County District Attorneys Office at (503)434-7539.


Attached Media Files: WaggonerMug1Scrap.shs , WaggonerMug2.JPG , WaggonerTattoo1.JPG , WaggonerTattoo2.JPG , WaggonerTattoo4.JPG

Contacts:
Dan Norfleet, Superintendent of Facilities, (360) 619-1285
Tim Haldeman, Director of Facilities, Risk and Property Services, (360) 619-1095


The glockenspiel in the Esther Short Park bell tower is being repaired and will be out of service for about 30 days. One of the main gear assemblies has been worn, causing one of the doors to the three-scene diorama about the Chinook Indians to remain open. While that door was open an object was thrown at it, damaging the scene and necessitating the repairs.

The Esther Short bell tower and glockenspiel was dedicated in 2002 thanks to a donation from local businessman and philanthropist George Propstra.

May 8, 2008

Who: Oregon Home Care Commission
What: Executive session
When: Wednesday, May 14, 2008, 1:30 p.m.
Where: Teleconference

The Home Care Commission will hold an executive session for consultation with legal counsel regarding legal rights and duties with respect to litigation -- ORS 192.660(1)(h) and to consider information or records exempt from disclosure -- ORS 192.660(2)(f).

The commission is responsible for ensuring the quality of publicly funded in-home care services. The commission has three major charges: (1) to define qualifications of home care workers; (2) to create a statewide registry of home care workers; and (3) to provide training opportunities for home care workers. Beyond these responsibilities, the Home Care Commission is also the "employer of record" for purposes of collective bargaining for home care workers whose pay comes from public funds.

# ##

GRESHAM, Ore. – The City invites all residents and interested parties to attend and participate in the following meetings and events the week of May 10-17. The City issues a comprehensive list of meetings and events every week to assist citizens and media track issues involving the City of Gresham.


Attached Media Files: City Meetings Press Release Wk of May 10_17.doc

Contact: Donna Mason, City/County Cable TV Director 360-696-8233, or
Jim Demmon, Cable TV Manager, 360-696-8235


Vancouver/Clark County Comcast cable television subscribers are able to be "connected" to the rest of the state with the return of KIRO news and public affairs programming to the channel line-up the City/County Cable Television Office announced today.

KIRO news, originating from Seattle, will air five times daily Monday through Friday, four times on Saturday and three times on Sunday on CVTV Cable Channel 21 according to Donna Mason, City/County Cable TV Director. "In addition to the local newscasts, we will also air local public affairs programming when it is available such as election coverage and candidate debates," Mason said.

KIRO news had been carried on Comcast Cable Channel 14, but was dropped by Comcast late last year when it eliminated Channel 14 to make room for more high definition and digital programming.

"The ability to receive news and information from other areas of the state is one of the highest priorities for local cable television subscribers," Mason observed. "We are delighted that with the support of Comcast our office was able to reach agreement with KIRO to air the news programming on our second local government channel CVTV 21."

The agreement also means that in case of emergencies or other special circumstances Vancouver and Clark County Comcast cable subscribers will be able to receive information from around the state through KIRO on CVTV 21 Mason added.

Mason explained that KIRO news will air on CVTV 21 rather than CVTV 23 to minimize interruptions of regularly scheduled live coverage of such meetings as Vancouver City Council and Land Use Hearings.

KIRO is the CBS affiliate in Seattle and for legal reasons, CVTV 21 will only be able to air news and public affairs programming because network programming is carried on KOIN Channel 6 locally.

The complete schedule of KIRO newscasts which will air on a regular basis are: Weekdays 5 a.m. – 7 .am.; 12 p.m. – 12:30 p.m.; 5 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.; 6 p.m – 7 p.m.; and 11 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.; Saturdays 7 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.; 5 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.; 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.; 11 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.; Sundays 5 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.; 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.; 11 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.

On April 23rd 2008 the Sandy Police Department publicly released the composite sketch a suspect involved in a road rage incident. The incident occurred March 29th 2008. The incident started out as a traffic dispute and escalated into an armed confrontation by the suspect. The police identified 39-year old Sandy resident Jason Earl Nolte as the man who armed himself following a road rage incident and menaced a 69-year-old Sandy man pointing a handgun at him. On Thursday May 8 2008 at about 0822 hours Officers from the Sandy Police Department made a traffic stop on Mr. Nolte's vehicle on Pioneer Blvd east of Bruns Ave in Sandy. Mr. Nolte was placed under arrest and was transported to the police department without incident. Mr. Nolte was then transported and lodged at the Clackamas County Jail for menacing and pointing a firearm at another.

A fire in a bedroom of a two-story duplex forced an Aloha family of five from their home and investigators say a small boy playing with a cigarette lighter caused the blaze. Firefighters from Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue were dispatched to a report of a bed on fire in the 6800 block of SW 198th Avenue in Aloha at 9:30 am. When the first company from TVF&R Fire Station #62 arrived, they found light smoke coming from a second story window and the eaves of the building. They entered the townhouse apartment and found light smoke downstairs, but heavy smoke to the floor in the upstairs area. They searched the bedrooms and found a bed burning in a front bedroom and quickly extinguished the flames.
The couple and their three children, two boys both age four and a two-year old girl, escaped unharmed. The couple told investigators they discovered the fire in the bedroom and attempted to extinguish it before smoke and flames drove them out of the apartment. They indicated the boys had been playing together in the bedroom just prior to discovery of the fire. Fire investigators found a cigarette lighter in the boys' bedroom next to the charred bed. The apartment suffered moderate fire damage to the bedroom with extensive smoke damage throughout the second floor and minor water damage to the first floor. Damage estimate is placed at $10,000.
The Oregon Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross dispatched a disaster assistance team to aid the family which had no renters insurance. Firefighters from TVF&R and Hillsboro Fire and Rescue responded to the incident and Washington County Sheriff's Deputies assisted with the investigation. Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue has these fire safety tips for families with small children:

1. Create a fire escape plan and practice it with your family. Don't forget to include a meeting place outside.

2. Place additional smoke alarms in your children's bedroom and check all alarms monthly to ensure they are working.

3. Emphasize that matches and lighters are tools for adults, not toys for children.

4. Keep all matches and lighters in a safe place out of reach of children.

5. Smokers should use only child-resistant lighters.

6. Give permission to all children to report to parents if another child is misusing matches or a lighter.

7. For maximum protection, choose an apartment that is protected by residential sprinkler systems. If you plan to build a home, consider installing sprinklers.

For more information on fire and life safety, visit www.tvfr.com.
-30-

Photo Caption:
TVF&R Firefighter Jesse Peters tosses the charred remains of a bunk bed out the window of an Aloha townhouse damaged by fire Thursday morning. Investigators say a child playing with a cigarette lighter sparked the blaze.


Attached Media Files: 198th Duplex fire 2615.jpg

The City of Sherwood and Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue will jointly host the annual Sherwood Community Services Fair. The fair will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 17th at the Sherwood Fire Station located at 15440 SW Oregon Street.

This event features many exhibits and information booths by public and nonprofit agencies with crime prevention information, fire and life safety tips, rides, free hotdogs, hamburgers, cookies and soft drinks. Children will see a LifeFlight helicopter land (scheduled for noon) and families will enjoy displays from the City of Sherwood's Police Department, McGruff the Crime Dog, Washington County Sheriff's specialty units, puppets from Kids on the Block ~ Powerful Puppetry and many more. Sherwood Public Works will feature gator rides and a backhoe that kids can actually use to dig dirt. Kids will learn how to escape safely from a fire in the Fire Safety House and they can tour several fire apparatus.


Attached Media Files: 2008 Poster.pdf , Sherwood CS Fair 2008 Press Release.doc

One person died early Wednesday morning in a single vehicle crash along Highway 34 about fifteen miles east of Highway 101. The victim's next of kin were notified and his name is released below.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Lieutenant Kelly Collins, on May 7, 2008 at approximately 3:46 a.m. a report was received through Lincoln County Communications Center of a vehicle off Highway 34 near milepost 15. Central Coast Fire & Rescue responded and discovered a 2006 Nissan pickup on its top about 30 feet off the highway with a deceased lone male occupant.

Preliminary investigation by OSP indicates the pickup was eastbound when it left the south side of the highway, traveled over the top of a guardrail and struck several trees. The pickup came to rest on its top about 30 feet down the embankment.

The victim is identified as DAVID A. KUYKENDOLL, age 39, from Benicia, California.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 050708.fatal.hwy34.mp15.2.jpg , 050708.fatal.hwy34.mp15.1.jpg

PORTLAND, OR (May 8, 2008) The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry's (OMSI) popular monthly Science Pub discussion series is moving to a larger venue in order to better accommodate its standing-room only crowds. It will move from its current location at bridgeport brewpub + bakery to McMenamins Mission Theater & Pub at 1624 NW Glisan, beginning Monday, May 19.

"We're victims of our own success!" said Amanda Thomas, OMSI's lead of adult programs. "The Science Pub has become so popular that we've outgrown bridgeport. Mission Theater & Pub has the space we need, along with the good food and drink that are essential to Science Pub."

Satisfying the public's hunger for science and sustenance since August 2006, Science Pub takes place on the last Monday of every month. Science Pub is an informal gathering with expert speakers discussing cutting-edge advances in science and technology that directly affect people's lives. No scientific background is required—just curiosity, a sense of humor, and an appetite for food, drinks, and knowledge. Science Pub is relaxed, interactive, and fun!


Portland Science Pub Schedule

May 19-Sex, Relationships, and Technology
Discussion with L. Kris Gowen, PhD, Portland State University
(Note: One week earlier than usual)

June 30 - Does Solar Energy Make Sense in Oregon?
Discussion with Stuart Green, Solar Oregon

July 28 - Your World in a Box: The Port of Portland and Global Trade
Discussion with Barry Horowitz, Port of Portland

August 25 - What's Love Got To Do With It: Sex for Social Bonding in Bonobos
Discussion with Frances White, PhD, University of Oregon

Science Pub is open to anyone and everyone; no RSVP is necessary. Science Pub runs from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 or 9:00 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m.) For more information visit www.omsi.edu/sciencepub or call 503.797.4517.

ABOUT OMSI
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation's leading science museums, an award-winning world-class tourist attraction and an educational resource for the kid in each of us. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, OR 97214. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit www.omsi.edu.

The Beaverton Police Activities League (PAL) will be hosting a Bicycle Safety Fair on Saturday May 17 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at 12500 SW Allen Blvd.

The safety fair is being held in partnership with the NW Bicycle Safety Council, the Beaverton Police Department and the Beaverton PAL Club and will focus on bicycle safety for children and their families.

• Families can attend one of many bike safety classes throughout the morning
• Receive a free helmet, complete with free fitting and medical alert helmet ID
• Bring your child's bike for a safety inspection and minor maintenance (bicycle lights installed while they last – batteries included)
• See your child demonstrate safe bicycling in the bike safety rodeo skills obstacle course, where prizes will be awarded.

For more information, contact Bruce Buffington at 503-466-2501 or at nwbsc@comcast.net

##BPD##

May 8, 2008

Oregon is one of eight states to receive a grant from the National Council on Aging to improve older adult access to the Stanford Chronic Disease Self-Management Program, proven to be effective in reducing disease, disability and injury among seniors.

The Oregon Department of Human Services will use the three-year, $300,000 grant to further develop its current "Living Well" program, which is modeled on the Stanford program.

The program uses peer leaders to help teach people with a wide variety of chronic conditions including diabetes, arthritis, asthma and heart disease to care for themselves so they can live more fully. Participants learn from one another how to deal with common issues like communicating better with health care providers, coping with pain and depression, and adapting to changes brought on by their chronic conditions.

"Living Well is a well-tested approach to helping people with chronic conditions care for themselves," said Mel Kohn, M.D., state epidemiologist in DHS. "People with chronic conditions may see a doctor several times each year, but the rest of the time, they are managing their own health."

Living Well has operated in 20 Oregon counties since 2002 and more than 1,500 Oregonians ranging from 13 to 96 years have participated in it. The six-week progam is also offered in Spanish as Tomando Control de Su Salud, and offered as a seven-week Positive Self-Management for People with HIV/AIDS.

Kohn said the new funding will help Oregon move faster and more systematically toward sustained statewide programming, with an emphasis on reaching diverse and vulnerable populations.

"As Oregon's population ages, programs like Living Well are increasingly important in helping people live with chronic conditions and remain independent," says James Toews, DHS assistant director for seniors and people with disabilities. "They give participants more of what they want -- improved health, increased independence, better communication with physicians and fewer doctor and hospital visits."

The National Council on Aging grants are intended to help states design and establish systems that lead to statewide access to well-known, evidence-based self-management programs for people with chronic conditions. Strategies and tools that prove successful among the funded states will be shared so that older adults across the nation can benefit from these valuable programs. California, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Wisconsin also received grants.

The Stanford Chronic Disease Self-Management Program has been widely adopted in countries around the world including Canada, Australia and England. DHS is currently using funds from the Administration on Aging and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to support Living Well, Tai Chi and physical activity programs in four areas of the state.

Additional information about the Living Well program is on the Web at www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/livingwell/about_us.shtml.

###

May 7, 2008

Since the beginning of Oregon's Tobacco Prevention and Education Program in 1996, the proportion of mothers who smoked while pregnant has decreased 30 percent. Because of this decrease in smoking, about 17,000 infants have had a healthier start to life.

"This decline in the number of moms smoking during their pregnancies is great news for Mother's Day," said Mel Kohn, M.D., state epidemiologist with the Oregon Department of Human Services Public Health Division. "Mothers want to have healthier babies, and one of the most important things they can do for their children is to stop smoking."

Women who smoke while pregnant are more likely to miscarry or have a still birth. Infants born to mothers who smoke are more likely to be premature and low birthweight, which increases their risk of death and disease. Smoking while pregnant, and near a newborn, significantly increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

"Although we have seen a steady decline in the number of women smoking while pregnant, there is still much to do," Kohn said. "Oregon's proportion of pregnant smokers is higher than the national average -- 12 percent compared with 10 percent nationally."

In 2005, 5,643 infants were born to Oregon mothers who used tobacco during pregnancy. Each of these pregnancies costs an average of $749 more than a birth to a non-smoking woman. Oregon's neonatal healthcare costs were increased by nearly $4.2 million in 2005 due to smoking during pregnancy.

"Quitting smoking is so important for moms and dads," Kohn said. "If you would like to quit smoking and improve the health of your family, there is no-cost, confidential help available at the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line. Call 800-QUIT-NOW for free coaching, tips, advice and medication."




###

May 8, 2008

WHAT - The Forest Resource Trust Advisory Committee will meet to hear an update from Oregon Department of Forestry staff on the process of adopting draft administrative rules for implementing 2007 House Bill 2293 including:
* Rules for implementing the Cost-Share Program;
* Rules for expanding the eligibility of the Loan Program.

The meeting agenda also includes discussion on developing fundraising strategies for the Trust.

WHO - The 12-member Forest Resource Trust Advisory Committee serves in an advisory role to the Oregon Board of Forestry. The membership includes forest landowners and forestry consultants; representatives of the academic and environmental communities; the Oregon Department of Energy, and the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board.

WHEN – 10:00 a.m. on Thursday May 15, 2008

WHERE - Santiam Room, Operations Bldg. D, Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, 2600 State Street in Salem.

WHY - The Forest Resource Trust is an opportunity to invest in what many consider to be one of Oregon's most underutilized assets: thousands of acres of widely scattered, under-producing forestland. Under-producing lands are lands that once had forests, or are capable of growing forests but currently not occupied by a manageable stand of trees or seedlings. The 1993 Oregon Legislature established the Forest Resource Trust as the first natural-resource investment program of its kind in the country.

More information is available by contacting the Oregon Department of Forestry at 503-945-7427. More information about the Forest Resource Trust is available on the Oregon Department of Forestry's web site at: http://www.forestresourcetrust.oregon.gov/

One person died and four others were injured Wednesday afternoon in a crash involving a Scappoose School District School bus and a passenger car on Highway 30 about three miles north of Scappoose. The four injured included the school bus driver and three Warren Elementary School students.

On May 7, 2008 at approximately 2:29 p.m. a report was received of a serious crash on Highway 30 near milepost 24 between Tarbell Road and Pollard Road north of Scappoose. State, county, and city police and fire agencies responded to the scene.

Preliminary investigation indicates a Scappoose School District school bus driven by GARLAND L. SPOONER, age 45, from Scappoose, was transporting approximately 35 students from Warren Elementary School southbound on Highway 30 in the right hand lane. According to witnesses, a northbound 2008 Honda Civic crossed the paved center median into the southbound lanes and crashed head-on with the school bus. The Honda came to rest on the southbound shoulder at a driveway entrance. The school bus came to rest across both northbound lanes.

The Honda Civic's driver, LUIS A. TELLADO, age 62, from Scappoose, was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was using safety restraints.

SPOONER received minor injuries. Information at this time indicates she and two students were transported from the scene by ground ambulance to Legacy Emanuel Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. The two students were identified as OLIVIA BOWERS, age 7, and KAITLIN BOND, age 9. A third student, RANAY LAIRD, age 9, was transported by family members to an unknown hospital with a minor injury.

Scappoose School District officials advised the remaining students were transported back to Warren Elementary School where their parents were told they could pick their students up. Questions for the school district should be directed to Mary Crum at (503) 543-6374.

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers from the St. Helens work site are continuing the investigation with two OSP crash reconstructionists. The cause of the crash has not been determined. Highway 30 at the scene has two southbound lanes and two northbound lanes separated by a paved center continuous left turn lane.

Agencies assisting at the scene included Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Scappoose Police Department, Scappoose Fire Department, Columbia River Fire & Rescue, Columbia County Road Department, and ODOT. A detour was established around the scene and will remain in effect until the highway is re-opened.

Highway 30 was re-opened by 7:30 p.m. Commercial truck traffic caught in the backup was escorted through the scene after the incident was stabilized.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###


Attached Media Files: 050708.fatal.hwy30mp24.1.jpg , 050708.fatal.hwy30mp24.2.jpg

LAKE OSWEGO – Encouraging private developers to build public improvements by easing their financial burden is the goal of code changes adopted by the Lake Oswego City Council on May 6, 2008. Changes to the City Code regarding "Zones of Benefit," (ZOB) lengthen the term of a ZOB from 10 years to 25 years, allow for adjustment of the reimbursement amount over time due to inflation, and include non-construction costs, such as engineering and permit fees in determining initial reimbursement amounts.

A Zone of Benefit is an area that benefits from the installation of sewer, water or street improvements financed by a private party, such as a developer or the City. As others in the benefited area take advantage of the improvements, e.g., connect to the sewer, those residents pay back a portion of the costs to the party who installed the improvement.

"The code changes should improve the attractiveness of using this financing method by allowing developers to recoup the true value of their initial investment over time," said John Kennedy, Acting City Engineer.

Homeowner Ron Berg, who recently paid for a 216 foot sewer extension that would benefit two neighbors, states, "The Zone of Benefit will help me recover some of my costs. If my neighbors choose not to hook up to the new sewer extension today, I would be reimbursed a fair amount at the time they do decide to hook up."

For more information contact John Kennedy, Interim City Engineer, 503-635-0264.

THIS MEDIA ADVISORY SUPERSEDES THE ONE SENT MAY 5TH; SOME DATES AND TIMES HAVE CHANGED.
The city's Bureau of Planning is inviting Portlanders to help plan for the growth and development of our city.


Attached Media Files: Microsoft Word - PP LAUNCH MEDIA ADV.pdf , Microsoft Word - PP LAUNCH CALENDAR.pdf

A two vehicle fatal traffic crash involving a school bus has Highway 30 about 5 miles north of Scappoose blocked in both directions. The fatality was in the passenger vehicle and all students are safe. Three students have been transported to area hospitals with minor injuries and the bus driver was also transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

School district officials advise that parents of students on the bus are being contacted. Students that were not injured were transported to Warren School where parents are being advised to pick up their children.

ODOT has a detour established around the scene but long delays should be anticipated in both directions for several hours while the investigation continues.

Questions for the School district should be directed to Mary Crum at 503-543-6374.

OSP Lieutenant Greg Hastings is on scene and will accommodate media needs as available.

The Oregon Department of Human Services is hosting a live videoconference tomorrow morning, May 8, with seven Eastern Oregon communities as part of its series of community forums to gather public comment on the agency's proposed 2009-2011 budget.

Tomorrow's event takes place simultaneously in Baker City, Burns, Hermiston, John Day, La Grande, Ontario and Pendleton.

PLEASE NOTE THAT, DUE TO THE TIME ZONE DIFFERENCE, THE ONTARIO MEETING BEGINS AT 11 A.M. ALL OTHER SITES BEGIN THEIR MEETINGS AT 10 A.M.

Eastern Oregon interactive teleconference
Thursday, May 8

Baker City – 10 a.m. - noon
DHS Office
3165 10th Street

Burns – 10 a.m. - noon
DHS Office
809 W Jackson

Hermiston – 10 a.m. - noon
DHS Office
950 SE Columbia

John Day – 10 a.m. - noon
DHS Office
725 W Main Street, #A

La Grande – 10 a.m. - noon
DHS Office
1607 Gekeler Avenue

Ontario – 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
DHS Office
186 E Lane, Suite 2

Pendleton – 10 a.m. - noon
DHS Office
1555 Southgate Place

More information about the 2009-2011 budget development process can be found at http://oregon.gov/DHS/aboutdhs/budget/09-11budget/index.shtml.

DHS Director Bruce Goldberg, M.D, will lead the discussion with a presentation about the budget process, key agency programs, and efforts under way to streamline service delivery.

Following Goldberg's presentation, the public will have the opportunity to discuss specific issues of concern. Results of the discussion will be posted on the DHS Web site at the link listed above.

The Portland Water Bureau will host the grand opening of its fifth HydroPark, Sabin HydroPark, on Sunday, May 18th, from 2:00-4:00 pm. The opening will include a ceremonial ribbon cutting by Commissioner Randy Leonard, a community cupcake potluck and children's activities. Both the public and the media are invited to attend this grand opening.

A HydroPark is a formerly unused Water Bureau greenspace which has been transformed into a thriving pocket park. The HydroPark program is part of the bureau's Sustainability Action Plan, as parks increase urban neighborhood livability, while utilizing an existing city asset.

Most HydroParks have had their fences taken down and a variety of park-like amenities added, such as walking paths, picnic tables, doggy stations and/or benches. The Water Bureau has transformed five such spaces over the past two years, including its first endeavor, Hazelwood HydroPark, located at 1017 NE 117th Avenue.

Sabin HydroPark has received an expansion to the existing Sabin Community Garden and also new playground equipment thanks to a Water Bureau partnership with Portland Parks and Recreation. The site also received a walking path, picnic tables, doggy stations and benches. The site will benefit from a brand, new drinking fountain. Sabin HydroParks hours are from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

###


Attached Media Files: Sabin1962.jpg , New Signage.jpg , NewPlaygroundEquipment.jpg

An exhibition of drawings by Corvallis artist Susan Johnson is on display in the office of Governor Ted Kulongoski through June 4, 2008. Using layered "windows" of imagery, Johnson's vibrantly colored landscapes explore pathways and the passage of time.

Johnson's works have the strength of oil paintings, but are drawn with layers of lines using oilbar, a crayon made of linseed oil, pigment and wax. Since she was trained during the heyday of Abstract Expressionism, the process of applying paint is very important to the artist; therefore the lines of her compositions are always evident.

Says Johnson, "These are scenes from my personal experience. Abstracted to their basic shapes, they become color-blocked landscapes, shadowy patterns suggesting a human presence."

Since 1970, Johnson's work has been included in 30 one- or two-person exhibitions throughout the Northwest and beyond, and her drawings are regularly shown at Waterstone Gallery, Portland; the Freed Gallery, Lincoln City; and Pegasus Gallery, Corvallis. Johnson holds multiple post-graduate certifications in education, including an M.Ed in Arts Education from Oregon State University. In addition to a long career of teaching arts educators, she was also the executive director of the Corvallis Arts Center from 1985 to 1993.

The Art in the Governor's Office Program honors selected Oregon artists with exhibitions in the reception area of the Governor's Office in the State Capitol. The program considers only professional, living Oregon artists, and an exhibit in the Governor's office is considered a lifetime honor. Artists whose work has been shown there include Gordon Gilkey, Yuji Hiratsuka, Manuel Izquierdo, James Lavadour, Henk Pander, Michele Russo and Margot Thompson.
- - - - - - - - -

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department in 1993 in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon Legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission's expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development.

The Arts Commission is supported with General Funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature, federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts and funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust.

- 30 -


Attached Media Files: Susan_Johnson_Together_and_Alone.JPG

Hillsboro Police just learned that Mr. Irvin Nikolai, age 71, of Forest Grove. Posted $100,000. bail last evening at Union County Jail and is free pending an arraignment in Washington County Court.

This development is part of a Sexual Abuse case involving Nikolai that was posted in flashnews by HPD on Friday May 2nd. Nikolai had been in custody in Union County since that date.

Nikolai is expected to be arraigned in Washington County Circuit Court on May 16, 2008 at 8:30 AM.


# # #

School Evacuation Drills Planned for April and May 2008

UPDATE: This is an update to the previously issued press release which appears below. The second school evacuation drill will take place on Tuesday, May 13th, 2008 at the Clark County Event Center at the Fairgrounds. The address is 17402 NE Delfel Rd, Ridgefield, Washington. Students are expected to arrive at the facility between 12:15 and 12:30 PM. We expect to have approximately 650 students from various schools within Clark County participate in this drill. The students will be evacuated by bus from their schools and transported to the event center. A portion of the students will be reunited with their parents at the facility and the rest will be transported back to their schools by bus. The drill is designed to test a variety of functions including preparation of the evacuation site, transportation coordination, parent/student reunification, and emergency medical staging/treatment.


*************************
PREVIOUS RELEASE

School districts, law enforcement, and other public agencies will be participating in two school evacuation drills in April and in May. This press release provides information related to the drills as well as some background information on why these drills are taking place. Both drills are being coordinated through the Clark County Safe Schools Task Force.

The Safe Schools Task Force is a working group composed of school districts, Clark County law enforcement and fire districts, as well as other public agencies. The purpose of the task force is to look at school safety from a regional perspective and to identify programs and initiatives related to school safety which would be mutually beneficial to all school districts within Clark County as well as to Clark County's emergency response agencies.

During the 2006/2007 school year, the task force identified the need to make contingency plans for the potential need to evacuate an entire school to an off-site location. The task force envisioned a scenario, such as an active shooter, in which a school needed to be evacuated to an off-site location because student/parent reunification at the school would not be possible. The task force identified the Clark County Event Center at the Fairgrounds, and the Amphitheater at Clark County, as two locations within Clark County which were large enough to serve as an evacuation center and could also facilitate student/parent reunification.

As part of the planning process, the task force decided to conduct two drills during the 2007/2008 school year in order to test and refine the evacuation plan. On April 10, 2008, a small-scale drill will take place involving approximately 100 students from Crestline Elementary School. At around 1:00 PM on April 10th the students will board buses at Crestline Elementary school and will then travel to the Clark County Event Center at the Fairgrounds. They will be reunited with their parents at the event center shortly after they arrive. A larger drill is tentatively scheduled to take place on May 13, 2008, in which several schools in the county will provide student participants in order to simulate the evacuation of an entire school. It's estimated that approximately 600 students will participate in the May drill.

Both drills are designed to test the draft evacuation plans and to identify potential pitfalls. They are also designed to allow participating agencies to test their protocols and to provide staff with a realistic training experience.

For additional information please contact:

Commander Mike Cooke
Central Precinct
Clark County Sheriff's Office
Office: (360) 397-6197 Pager: (360) 759-8337

Summary of Event:
A woman crashed her car into a Thai restaurant yesterday, and claimed that her brakes failed as she was parking her car. One person suffered minor injuries.

Details of Event:
On Tuesday, May 6, 2008, at about 4:00 p.m. 38-year-old Julie Han drove through the wall of the "Zab Thai" restaurant located at 520 SW 205th Avenue. This area is contained in the Enhanced Sheriff's Patrol District (ESPD) and is patrolled by Washington County Sheriff's Deputies. The car completely entered the establishment before coming to a stop. The business is closed between lunch and dinner, so there were no customers inside at the time of the crash.

Mrs. Han told Sheriffs Deputies that she pulled into the parking lot from SW Baseline Road and started to pull into a parking space in front of the building. She said she depressed the brake pedal on her 2005 Honda Accord, but the brakes did not work and the car continued forward. The car crashed through the front windows of the building and came to rest completely inside the restaurant. At the time of the crash, the restaurant was closed with two employees inside. One of the employees suffered a minor injury when a chair flew across the room and struck her in the leg.

Neither Mrs. Han or her children, who were in the car at the time, were injured in the crash. The car was not immediately removed from the building because of concerns of structural damage that may have occurred in the crash. Mrs. Han was not cited for any violations.

http://www.co.washington.or.us/cgi/espd/m34_148.pl
www.co.washington.or.us/sheriff


Attached Media Files: PR 080506 Car into Restaurant.pdf , IMG_1036.JPG , IMG_1032.JPG , IMG_1031.JPG , IMG_1028.JPG

- PGE Foundation, Oregon Community Foundation will extend Community 101 to 100 Oregon schools -

PORTLAND, Ore. — Community 101, an innovative program in which Oregon school students learn to become philanthropists, will triple in size thanks to a collaboration announced today between the Portland General Electric (PGE) Foundation and The Oregon Community Foundation (OCF).

The collaboration will allow Community 101, currently in place in 35 schools across Oregon, to be expanded to 100 schools by the 2010-2011 school year.

Community 101 has taught civic engagement, grantmaking, leadership and teamwork skills to more than 6,000 Oregon youth since the PGE Foundation formed the program in 1997. It received the Youth in Philanthropy award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals in 2006.

"Youth philanthropy is one of the strategic initiatives of The Oregon Community Foundation," said Greg Chaille, president of The Oregon Community Foundation. "Community 101 is a strong addition to our portfolio of work in this area."

In Community 101 schools, students are awarded $5,000, which they distribute in grants to nonprofit organizations in their community. Supervised by a teacher advisor, students use Community 101 materials to guide them through the grantmaking process, visit nonprofits in their community and decide which programs they will fund. The students also volunteer an average of two hours a month at local nonprofits to gain a firsthand understanding of the need. Students most often choose to help organizations that serve the homeless and hungry, victims of abuse, pregnant teens and drug and alcohol users.

Students in 35 Oregon schools, from Astoria to Roseburg and from Roseburg to Tillamook, have granted more than $1 million in the 11 years the program has been in operation. Throughout that time, the PGE Foundation has funded and administered the program. Funding for student grants also has been provided by companies, organizations and foundations operating where Community 101 schools are located.

"Community 101 has given me the opportunity to interact with different non-profit organizations in my community, giving me the chance to learn more about children in poverty and the power to generate positive change," said Lulu Xiao, a Community 101 student at Southridge High School in Beaverton. "All the organizations I've come in contact with inspire me."

Jessica Jenkins, a Community 101 student at Open Meadow High School in Portland, agreed. "I didn't know about nonprofits until we started doing the project," she said. "Now I know the money we give will make a real difference in how many people they can help."

Beginning next fall, The Oregon Community Foundation will lead Community 101. The PGE Foundation will continue to provide grants and counsel over the next three years as the program expands.

"Community 101 has benefited many students and community groups over the years, and it has been our long-time dream to extend it to more Oregon high schools," said Gwyneth Gamble Booth, chair of the PGE Foundation. "The Oregon Community Foundation, with its statewide reach and deep commitment to Oregonians, will make that dream a reality."
# # #

About PGE Foundation
The PGE Foundation, the corporate foundation of Portland General Electric, was established in 1997 as a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization with a permanent endowment. The Foundation's giving is separate from the corporate giving of PGE. Since its inception, the Foundation has distributed approximately $11.5 million to help improve the quality of life for all Oregonians by supporting statewide programs and services that encourage healthy families, provide educational opportunities and encourage the arts and cultural diversity. To learn more, visit www.pgefoundation.org.

About The Oregon Community Foundation
Founded 34 years ago, The Oregon Community Foundation works in partnership with individual, family, business and organizational donors to improve the lives of Oregonians through philanthropy and by building an endowment – now more than $990 million – for Oregon's future. In 2007, OCF provided more than $55 million in grants and scholarships statewide. For more information, visit www.ocf1.org.

2007-2008 Community 101 schools

Albany: Three Lakes High School; Astoria: Astoria High School; Beaverton: Southridge High School; Canby: Howard Eccles Elementary School; Cloverdale: Nestucca High School; Corvallis: College Hill High School; Cottage Grove: Kennedy Transitional School; Eugene: Kalapuya High School; Forest Grove: Forest Grove High School; Gresham: Centennial High School; Hillsboro: Century High School, Glencoe High School; Medford: Washington Elementary School; Milwaukie: LaSalle High School, Milwaukie High School; Newberg: Newberg High School; Oregon City: Carus Elementary School, Oregon City High School; Pendleton: Pendleton High School; Portland: David Douglas High School, Fir Ridge Campus, Jesuit High School, Leadership and Entrepreneurship Public Charter School, Lincoln High School, Open Meadow High School, Parkrose High School, Portland YouthBuilders; Riddle: Riddle High School; Douglas County (Roseburg/Sutherlin/Drain/Elkton): Elkton High School, North Douglas High School, Phoenix School of Roseburg, Sutherlin High School; Salem: North Salem High School, Robert Farrell High School; Scappoose: Scappoose High School; Springfield: Thurston High School; Tillamook: Tillamook Options High School


Attached Media Files: comm101_girls2.jpg

Oregon emergency response teams to demonstrate response management
and life saving capabilities

Oregon's Incident Management Teams, Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Teams and Urban Search & Rescue Task Force, will provide demonstrations of their response, containment, rescue and recovery capabilities at the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training in Salem.
The media is invited to cover this event.

What: Live demonstrations by Urban Search & Rescue Task Force, Hazardous Materials Response Teams, and Incident Management Teams

Who: Speakers include State Fire Marshal Nancy Orr with a presentation by Incident Management Team Commander Scott Magers

When: May 13, 2008, 1:00 p.m.

Where: The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training
4190 Aumsville Highway, Salem, Oregon
(after entering the parking area, signs and personnel will guide you to the correct location)

Why: Emergency response services and equipment are crucial to protecting the lives of all Oregonians. This demonstration provides an opportunity for the Governor, Oregon legislators, state and local leaders to see first hand the importance of continuing a viable response and rescue capability throughout Oregon.

Photo and interview opportunities will be available.

###

May is Can-Do month for Sunshine Division — Can-Do, as in can collect 20,000 pounds of canned and nonperishable food in order to replenish the shelves of this local, longtime food and clothing relief agency.

For the last few months Sunshine Division has been distributing anywhere from 50 to 115 percent more food than last year at this time. Which means even with record-breaking food drives during last winter, there remains an urgent need for Sunshine Division to collect still more food — because more Portland families are getting hit by economic recession.

You can help Sunshine Division help Portlanders in need in these ways:

1. SPONSOR A FOOD DRIVE AT YOUR OFFICE, CLUB, CHURCH, SCHOOL, OR BUSINESS. It's never too late. Sunshine Division will supply you with collection barrels, they'll pick up full ones and replace them with empties, they'll provide you with printed info about their agency and Portland's hungry — even send you a speaker if you want.

2. DONATE FOOD. Whether your donations of nonperishable food come from your pantry, or you buy extra while you're shopping, here's what Sunshine Division is looking for to keep their food boxes nutritious, especially for children:
• breakfast cereal (both dry and hot)
• foods high in protein (tuna, peanut butter, etc.)
• whole-grain pasta
• canned veggies and fruit
• baby food, formula, diapers
• toilet tissue

You'll find Sunshine Division's signature blue food-collection barrels at —
• The Sunshine Division warehouse (687 N. Thompson St., just off N. Interstate Ave. between the Fremont and Broadway Bridges).
• Lloyd Center's customer service station (first level, near ice rink).
• Most Portland Police precinct stations (see attached media file for locations).

ABOUT SUNSHINE DIVISION
A nonprofit emergency food and clothing relief organization in unique partnership with the Portland Police Bureau, Sunshine Division operates year-round to provide temporary relief not only to Portland individuals and families who lack essential food and clothing, but also to 40-some other food-relief agencies in five counties. Thanks to generous donations of food and finances from both individuals and corporations, the 85-year-old charity receives, manages, and distributes 750 tons of food every year. For information about obtaining temporary food or clothing relief, or about volunteering with Sunshine Division, contact its office and warehouse at 503-823-2119.


Attached Media Files: PPB precinct collection stations.doc

Subhead: The program extends its perfect National Board Dental Hygiene Examination record to 38 years

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Twenty-five second-year Clark College dental hygiene students have passed the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) – extending the college's perfect record to 38 years. Referring to the NBDHE results, Donna Wittmayer, who serves as division chair in the dental hygiene department, put it simply: "We're grinning from ear to ear."

Clark College President Robert K. Knight noted, "Beginning with the first dental hygiene graduating class in 1970, every student from Clark College has successfully passed the NBDHE on the first attempt. Clark College is the only long-standing program in the United States that can attest to this 100% pass rate for the NBDHE. That's an amazing accomplishment -- one that brings pride to our dental hygiene program, our college and our community."

The NBDHE is administered by The Joint Commission on National Dental Examination of the American Dental Association. The examination is taken by all dental hygiene students from over 265 programs throughout the United States. It is an all-day written, comprehensive (350-question) examination based on the entire curriculum taught in dental hygiene programs. Completion and passing of the NBDHE is required for licensure by each state.

-30-

PORTLAND, OR (May 7, 2008) — The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) will offer space exploration enthusiasts a front-row seat for NASA's Phoenix Lander touch down on Mars. Scheduled for May 25 at 4:36 p.m. PDT, Phoenix will parachute from orbit and touch down on the outskirts of Mars' northern polar ice cap, joining the Mars exploration rovers Spirit and Opportunity.

The Mars landing will be shown in the OMSI Auditorium via a non-stop live link from NASA. Doors will open to the public at 3:00 p.m. to coincide with the NASA's live broadcast and seating is on first-come-first-serve basis. This event is included with paid museum admission. Pending a successful landing and contact, the first images from Phoenix are scheduled to be seen around 7:00 p.m.

Phoenix is expected to land on the permafrost-like terrain and spend most of its time scooping away topsoil so it can scrape through sub-layers of ice. But because the climate at the pole is so harsh, the lander won't likely live much past its 90-day mission life.

Phoenix is designed to be an innovative, low-cost part of the NASA's Mars Explor