Rogue Valley News, Friday 9/1 – Joint Task Force Arrests Phoenix Man for Sexually Exploiting Several Children Through Social Media, Wildfire and Weather Updates

Oregon State Police attempting to located dangerous escapee- Public assistance requested

On Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at approximately 10:45 P.M., the Oregon State Police were notified of an escaped adult in custody and patient of the Oregon State Hospital, located in Salem. 

Christopher Lee Pray was an adult in custody at the Multnomah County jail for multiple serious charges, to include Attempted Aggravated Murder, when he was transferred to the Oregon State Hospital on August 30. 

At approximately 10:45 P.M., Pray escaped from custody when he stole a white 2016 Dodge Caravan, bearing Oregon license plate E265614, and eluded law enforcement southbound on Interstate 5.  Law enforcement terminated the pursuit due to safety concerns and Pray was not apprehended.

Prays whereabouts are unknown at this time.  He was last seen heading southbound on Interstate 5, however he has ties to the greater Portland metro area.  At the time of his escape, he was fully restrained with leg shackles, a belly chain, handcuffs, and a restraint connecting all three together.  He was wearing a white t-shirt, maroon sweatpants, and black rubber slippers.

Pray is considered extremely dangerous and should not be approached.  Law enforcement is urging the public to dial 911 and report any sightings of Pray or the vehicle he was operating.

Christopher Lee Pray- Poses an extreme danger to the public

• 39 years old
• 6 ft. tall, 170 pounds
• Brown hair and brown eyes
• White male 
• Trimmed facial hair- may be different from photo
• Stitches on his upper lip
• Tattoos- Right arm- “PRAY”; right forearm – “S”; neck- possibly “supreme”
• Full restraints- leg shackles, belly chain, and handcuffs
• White t-shirt, maroon sweatpants, and black rubber slippers.

2016 white Dodge Caravan- (photo not actual vehicle)

• Oregon license plate- E265614 (yellow plate)
• No identifying marks

Oregon to issue an additional $39 million in Pandemic EBT food assistance to 325,000 children

• Oregon will provide approximately $39 million in food benefits to approximately 325,000 students beginning Aug. 31 and through September.
• Starting Aug. 31 and through the month of September, $120 in food benefits per eligible child will be issued to Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) cards.
• These additional food benefits are part of the P-EBT program, a temporary COVID-19 response program meant to provide additional food support for children whose access to food provided through school programs. 
• Since 2020, Oregon has issued $1 billion in P-EBT food benefits to help children in Oregon get enough quality and nutritious food.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) will begin issuing approximately $39 million in Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) food benefits to approximately 325,000 students in Oregon on Aug. 31. 

“We are grateful to be able to provide these food benefits to eligible students in Oregon,” said Claire Seguin, director of the ODHS Self-Sufficiency Programs. “As communities continue to be affected by COVID-19 and the rising cost of food, we know that many families are experiencing hardship and are struggling to get enough healthy food for themselves and their children. We encourage anyone who is struggling to meet their basic needs to contact our partners at 211, the Oregon Food Bank and their local Community Action Agency for support during this difficult time.”

How students will receive P-EBT food benefits — The P-EBT food benefits will be issued onto the P-EBT cards mailed to students in Spring 2023. Families who lost or threw away their card can contact the P-EBT call center at (844) ORE-PEBT or (844) 673-7328 to request a new card.

Newly eligible students will receive two pieces of mail addressed to them: 

• A letter notifying them they will receive P-EBT
• A separate envelope with their P-EBT card that has $120 of food benefits on it

Who is eligible for P-EBT food benefits — Students are eligible for this P-EBT issuance if they received free or reduced-price National School Lunch Program meals at school or attended a Community Eligibility Provision school in May 2023.

More P-EBT food benefits to come for certain children — Oregon has received federal approval to provide additional P-EBT food benefits to children under 6 years old who received Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program food benefits between July 2022 and August 2023. Details about when and how these children will receive their P-EBT food benefits will be announced as soon as it is available. 

What is the P-EBT program? — Since 2020, Oregon has issued approximately $1 billion in P-EBT food benefits to help children in Oregon get enough quality and nutritious food. 

These additional food benefits are part of the P-EBT program, a temporary COVID-19 response program meant to provide additional food support for children whose access to adequate and quality food received through school programs may have been impacted by COVID-19.

Visit pebt.oregon.gov for more information about the P-EBT program. 

Families with specific questions about their child’s eligibility or P-EBT card can contact the P-EBT Call Center at (844) ORE-PEBT or (844) 673-7328. The P-EBT Call Center is available Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific in seven language options (English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Somalian, Mandarin and Cantonese). Callers may also request a translator for additional languages.

P-EBT does not replace any child nutrition program already offered and families are encouraged to continue to participate in meal programs in their schools and communities.  

P-EBT food benefits are issued in addition to regular SNAP benefits. P-EBT benefits are not considered in a public charge test.

Resources to help meet basic needs

• Find food resources in your community: needfood.oregon.gov
• Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or www.adrcoforegon.org.
• Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org 
• Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: www.caporegon.org/find-services/ 

About SNAP — Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 million eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities. Oregonians in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at https://govstatus.egov.com/or-dhs-benefits. For local resources in your area, such as food or shelter, please call 2-1-1 or reach out to the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 1-855-ORE-ADRC or 1-855-673-2372.

About P-EBT  — Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) is part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. P-EBT is money for children whose access to adequate and quality food may have been impacted by COVID-19.

P-EBT is a program in partnership with the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE).

Oregon Political Leaders Delighted By State Revenue Forecast

Oregon will have plenty of tax money to spend on public services as corporate tax collections are increasing in a strong post-pandemic economy, state economists said Wednesday.

Total general fund resources for the 2023-25 budget are projected to be $437 million higher than state economists projected ahead of final budget votes in June, officials said. Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek welcomed the news from the Office of Economic Analysis.

“We must leverage the opportunity presented by another positive forecast to invest in housing production and other urgent needs to support Oregon families and the state’s long-term economic growth,” Kotek said.

Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson, leader of the minority Republicans in the Oregon House of Representatives, urged that funds be dedicated to combat crime and the flood of fentanyl into the state. House Speaker Dan Rayfield, a Democrat, said the healthy revenue forecast means Oregon can continue to address homelessness, access to mental health and health care, community safety and education.

State Economist Josh Lehner said that as inflation slows, income gains are outpacing price increases, leading to rising living standards.

“Today’s forecast means we can sustain critical funding for services that directly impact the lives of Oregon families,” Democratic Senate President Rob Wagner said.

Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp urged bold investments in infrastructure like roads, sewer systems and water.

An increase in revenues at the end of the 2021-23 biennium will result in a larger personal income “kicker” than previously estimated, state economists said. The typical Oregonian is expected to receive a $980 credit on their state income tax under Oregon’s unique “kicker” law. (SOURCE)

REMINDER: Resumption of federal student loan repayments begins in October

Salem –The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is reminding everyone with federal student loans that payments will resume for all borrowers in October, following a pause implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Interest accrual resumes Sept. 1, potentially affecting borrowers’ outstanding loan balances. Since March 2020, interest on most federal student loans had been temporarily paused. 

“An important aspect of this transition is that people’s student loan balances have remained unchanged, but with the resumption of interest accrual, they will begin to rise,” said Lane Thompson, Oregon student loan ombuds. “We encourage borrowers to be active in understanding the implications of this change on their financial obligations.” 

To facilitate a smooth transition and ensure accurate communication, all borrowers are urged to log in to studentaid.gov, the official U.S. Department of Education platform for federal student aid, and verify the accuracy of their contact and servicer information. Also, it is recommended that borrowers review their repayment options. Circumstances can evolve over time, making it essential to align repayment strategies with current financial status. 

“A lot can change in three years, so it is paramount for people to verify the accuracy of their information,” Thompson said. “Ensuring that contact details are up to date will help borrowers stay informed about their loan status.” 

In conjunction with the resumption of payments, the Biden administration has introduced an on-ramp program, which includes a fact sheet. This initiative aims to provide some relief to borrowers by prohibiting loan servicers from reporting missed payments to credit bureaus for one year. This measure offers a safety net for those facing difficulties in making payments after the extended payment pause. 

DFR advises all borrowers to remain vigilant against potential scams. Instances of fraud have been reported in which scammers attempt to deceive people into making payments to unauthorized entities instead of their legitimate loan servicer. 

“Scammers are out and trying to take advantage of the situation,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “Borrowers are encouraged to seek written communication, such as letters, from their servicers to verify authenticity.” 

The Oregon Attorney General’s office is also integral in safeguarding those with student loans. 

“My office plays a vital role in protecting student loan borrowers from misleading and deceptive practices. This fall will be no exception – we will be closely watching what happens when the pause on repayment ends in October,” said Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum. “If you have a concern about a practice of your loan servicer pertaining to your student loans, I urge you to file a complaint.”

It is critically important for borrowers to find out their loan servicer’s name and contact information, and understand their repayment plan and options. This knowledge empowers people to effectively manage their loan obligations. 

For more information and guidance on student loan repayments, visit DFR’s help page or contact the student loan ombuds office at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or .bankingporducthelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.bankingproducthelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

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

A federal judge has found that a Trump-era rule change that allowed for the logging of old-growth forests in the Pacific Northwest violates several laws.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew Hallman on Thursday found that the U.S. Forest Service violated the National Environmental Policy Act, the National Forest Management Act and the Endangered Species Act when it amended a protection that had been in place since 1994.

The findings came in response to a lawsuit filed by multiple environmental groups over the change.

Hallman recommended that the Forest Service’s environmental assessment and finding of no significant impact should be vacated and that the agency should be required to prepare a full environmental impact statement related to the change.

“The highly uncertain effects of this project, when considered in light of its massive scope and setting, raise substantial questions about whether this project will have a significant effect on the environment,” Hallman wrote.

The Forest Service didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment. The agency has two weeks to object to the judge’s findings and recommendations.

The protection changed by the Trump administration banned the harvesting of trees 21 inches (53 centimeters) or greater in diameter and instead emphasized maintaining a mix of trees, with trees at least 150 years old prioritized for protection and favoring fire-tolerant species.

The area impacted by the rule is at least 7 million acres (2.8 million hectares), approximately the size of the state of Maryland, on six national forests in eastern Oregon and southeast Washington state.

The Trump administration said the change, which went into effect in 2021, would make forests “more resistant and resilient to disturbances like wildfire.”

“We’re looking to create landscapes that withstand and recover more quickly from wildfire, drought and other disturbances,” Ochoco National Forest supervisor Shane Jeffries told Oregon Public Broadcasting at the time. “We’re not looking to take every grand fir and white fir out of the forests.”

The lawsuit, however, said the government’s environmental assessment didn’t adequately address scientific uncertainty surrounding the effectiveness of thinning, especially large trees, for reducing fire risk. The groups said the thinning and logging of large trees can actually increase fire severity.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Pendleton, Oregon, also said overwhelming evidence exists that large trees play a critical role in maintaining biodiversity and mitigating climate change and that eastern Oregon is lacking those trees after “more than a century of high-grade logging.”

Greater Hells Canyon Council, Oregon Wild, Central Oregon LandWatch, Great Old Broads for Wilderness, WildEarth Guardians and the Sierra Club were all plaintiffs in the lawsuit with support from the Nez Perce Tribe.

Rob Klavins, an advocate for Oregon Wild based in the state’s rural Wallowa County, said in a news release that he hopes the Forest Service will take this decision to heart and called on the Biden administration to stop defending the Trump-era rule change.

Earlier this year, President Joe Biden signed an executive order directing federal land managers to identify threats to older trees, such as wildfire and climate change, and develop policies to safeguard them.

As the Forest Service goes “back to the drawing board, we expect them to meaningfully involve all members of the public to create a durable solution,” Klavins said. (SOURCE)

CRITICAL INCIDENT REPORT — SPRINGFIELD POLICE DEPARTMENT Incident: Officer Struck by Gunfire – Suspect In Custody

Location: 1800 Block of Market Street | Springfield Date/Time: Initial Call – 0809 | Suspect In Custody

NARRATIVE OF INCIDENT: The Springfield Police Department 911 received multiple calls at 8:09 am on August 31, 2023, regarding an adult male breaking items in the street and acting erratically. SPD Patrol Officers responded to the scene and attempted to contact the man who had retreated into a residence. At 8:36 am, multiple rounds were fired from inside the residence in the direction of the officers. One officer was struck and was able to move out of the direct line of fire.

The officer was transported to an area hospital and is in stable condition. A second officer was struck by fragments resulting from the shots and also received care at a local hospital. Multiple SPD officers responded to the scene. More shots were discharged from inside the residence as officers worked to establish a perimeter. Personnel from the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, Eugene Police Department, and the Oregon State Police began arriving at the scene and evacuating residents of neighboring homes.

Springfield Police Department SWAT, Crisis Negotiators, and Drone Team were supported by their counterparts from the aforementioned law enforcement agencies in addition to on-scene support from Eugene Springfield Fire. Crisis Negotiators attempted contacted with the man who was inside of the residence.

The man ultimately responded to police direction and was taken into custody without further incident. Further information will be provided at a later time. If any members of the community have information regarding the incident are asked to contact the SPD Non-Emergency Line at 541.726.3714

Harris Beach health advisory issued Aug. 31

High bacteria levels prompt OHA recommendation to avoid water contact

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is issuing a public health advisory today for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Harris Beach in Curry County. People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.

Visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria tend to be higher in these types of water sources.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including:

• Stormwater runoff.
• Sewer overflows.
• Failing septic systems.
• Animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife.

Even if there is no advisory in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.

Ocean waters will be re-tested after an advisory is issued. Once bacteria levels are at a safe level, OHA will notify the public that the advisory is lifted.

While this advisory is in effect at Harris Beach, state officials continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk even during an advisory.

For the most recent information on advisories, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0482, or 877-290-6767 (toll-free).

Registration is Live for SOLVE Beach & Riverside Cleanup

– Get ready to participate in a time-honored tradition as SOLVE presents the Annual Beach & Riverside Cleanup. This eagerly anticipated event brings families and communities together to engage in beach cleanups, river cleanups, habitat restoration projects, and neighborhood litter pickup events throughout Oregon.

SOLVE is hosting over 60 project sites statewide between September 9th through September 17th – with the main events culminating on Saturday, September 16th. This extensive reach encompasses locations from the Coast to Portland, as well as the Willamette Valley, Central and Eastern Oregon. Volunteer registration is now live. Visit www.solveoregon.org to learn more about the available projects and to register for this impactful event.

From its inception in 1986, the Beach & Riverside Cleanup has evolved into a cherished annual event for countless Oregonian families. “It stands as a testament to our shared dedication to environmental stewardship, offering a safe and efficient way to make a lasting impact,” says Kris Carico, SOLVE’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our journey through the years has fostered a deep connection to Oregon’s waterways, from their origin to the sea. We encourage all fellow Oregonians to sign up for this statewide cleanup event.“

Since its start, the Beach & Riverside Cleanup has accounted for the removal of more than 2.5 million pounds of litter and marine debris. To put this in perspective, that’s equivalent to the weight of six Boeing 747 airplanes. Last year’s impressive effort involved almost 3,000 volunteers across 147 sites in Oregon, resulting in the collection and removal of approximately 50,000 pounds of discarded trash. September 16th is also International Coastal Cleanup Day and SOLVE is proudly joining forces with the Ocean Conservancy Group, contributing to a global endeavor aimed at preserving our coastlines. 

SOLVE’s Beach & Riverside Cleanup is in partnership with Subaru of Portland, with additional support from OnPoint Community Credit Union, Bamboo Sushi, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Metro, BottleDrop, Knife River, Koin, Fred Meyer, Chevron, Clean Water Services, Tillamook County Creamery Association, and Tektronix.

About SOLVE — SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings Oregonians together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, and build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information. 

5,000th Wish Granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation in Oregon and Southwest Washington

The Make-A-Wish Foundation has hit a new milestone. On Wednesday night, they granted their 5,000 wish in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

The wish recipient was a Molalla teen named Brandon who wished to customize his 2001 Acura TL.

Almost exactly one year ago, Brandon had an enlarged lymph node removed from his neck shortly after he was diagnosed with lymphoma.

His family says the car marks a new path forward after he spent months fighting for his life.

Make-A-wish shared a statement from Brandon with us.

“Well, I had this car, and I really wanted to do stuff to it but at the time I really couldn’t do anything,” he said. “So, it was kind of a long shot but it ended up working out, and I just wanted to pretty much make it look how it is now.”

The first wish Make-A-Wish Oregon granted was back in 1983.

“It’s pretty cool that in Oregon and southwest Washington alone we have granted 5,000 wishes for local children, and it is pretty amazing to be able to say we have made this huge impact, not only on the community of the kids we have granted their wishes, but also all of the people who get to donate and help and be a part of the magic of granting a wish,” said Laila Cook, CEO of Make-A-Wish Oregon.

Make-A-Wish expressed their gratitude for everyone here who helps them make wishes come true.