COVID-19 has claimed six more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 322, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 373 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 18,492.

The new cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (3), Benton (3), Clackamas (22), Crook (2), Deschutes (9), Douglas (3), Gilliam (1), Hood River (3), Jackson (17), Jefferson (6), Josephine (1), Klamath (8), Lane (17), Lincoln (6), Linn (5), Malheur (12), Marion (44), Morrow (20), Multnomah (77), Polk (6), Sherman (1), Umatilla (40), Union (2), Wasco (2), Washington (45), and Yamhill (18).

Oregon’s 317^th COVID-19 death is a 90-year-old woman in Deschutes County who tested positive on July 12 and died on July 28, in her residence. The presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 318^th COVID-19 death is an 81-year-old man in Deschutes County who tested positive on July 7 and died on July 29. Location of death is being confirmed. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 319^th COVID-19 death is a 55-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on July 28 and died on July 29, at Adventist Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 320^th COVID-19 death is a 58-year-old man in Umatilla County who tested positive on July 7 and died on July 29, at Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, WA. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 321^st COVID-19 death is a 70-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on July 3 and died on July 30, at Legacy Emanuel Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 322^nd COVID-19 death is an 81-year-old man in Lincoln County who tested positive on June 23 and died on July 29. Location of death is being confirmed. He had underlying conditions.

OHA Issues Report on Pediatric COVID-19 Data

Today, OHA issued a special report analyzing pediatric COVID-19 cases in Oregon since the beginning of the pandemic.

Of confirmed and presumptive cases in Oregon, 1,755 – 10.3 percent – have been pediatric patients, defined as people under age 18. The report noted that while pediatric case counts have increased sharply, these patients are still far less likely than adults to develop severe COVID-19.

Only 1.5 percent pediatric patients have been hospitalized at some point during their COVID-19 illness. That is compared to 9.7 percent of adult COVID-19 patients.  

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

BEND, OR -- Deschutes public health officials briefed county commissioners this week about COVID-19. Public Health Director Nahad Sadr-Azodi said schools will reopen in the fall based on decisions and choices we make today, and because it is within the public’s sphere of influence and control to make it happen. But he also says to get schools open the infection rate must go down. Sadr-Azodi urges everyone to wear a mask and social distance while avoiding large crowds.

BEND, OR -- The Deschutes County District Attorney has charged two men with crimes for allegedly attacking a man participating in a Black Lives Matter rally in Bend July 11^th. D-A John Hummel says a man in a truck yelled a slur at people at the rally. He says Andrew Heller of Bend, chased after them on a bike and when the truck stopped, he asked the passenger why he yelled at them. Hummel says 37-year-old Darrell Goddard of La Pine, violently opened the truck door into Heller, knocking him to the ground. He says Goddard got out and started punching Heller. Hummel says the driver, 50-year-old Robert Thompson of Arizona came around the truck and pointed a gun at Heller while Goddard continued punching him.  Hummel has charged Thompson with unlawful use of a weapon and menacing. Hummel charged Goddard with assault and criminal mischief.

CENTRAL OREGON -- This week has been busy for local state and federal fire fighting agencies with high heat, gusty winds and lightning. Fire Information Officer Kassidy Kerns says there were a few thunderstorms and there were about 100 strikes that hit the ground. She says crews have been attacking ten new fires, keeping most under one-quarter of an acre. Kerns says the Day Basin Fire, seven miles southwest of Dayville, had an early attack by retardant aircraft and was lined at 41 acres. She says Prineville Hot Shots are working to secure the line. Kerns says another fire, 12 miles northwest of Millican called Incident 159, has grown to 270 acres. Kerns says the Brothers-Hampton Rural Fire Protection Association is being helped on that fire by Prineville BLM engines and crews.

Governor Kate Brown Announces Updates to the County Watch List

(Portland, OR) — Governor Kate Brown today announced that two counties—Lincoln and Union—have succeeded in reducing the spread of COVID-19 sufficiently enough to be removed from the County Watch List. Meanwhile, three counties—Hood River, Marion, and Multnomah—have been added to the Watch List. This brings the total number of counties on the list to ten.

The County Watch List allows the state to prioritize resources and assistance to counties that are seeing the broadest spread of COVID-19. When a county is placed on the Watch List, the Oregon Health Authority increases monitoring and communication, and deploys additional technical assistance and resources, such as epidemiological support, case investigation, and contact tracing help.

“I want to applaud county officials and community members in Lincoln and Union Counties for their diligent work in bringing the spread of COVID-19 under control in these areas. Your leadership shows that we can reduce the spread of this disease if we work together,” said Governor Brown.

Lincoln and Union Counties were successful in reducing community spread and coming off the Watch List thanks in part to the diligent work of local public health staff, as well as community members who worked to protect themselves, their families, and neighbors. Some of the steps taken include Union County voluntarily moving back to Phase 1 and Lincoln County opting to remain in Phase 1. In addition, the Oregon Health Authority provided case investigation and contact tracing support, including intensive efforts to reach communities with specific language and cultural needs; neighboring counties also aided the response.  

Counties are placed on the Watch List when COVID-19 is spreading quickly and public health officials cannot trace that spread to specific sources—creating a potentially dangerous dynamic. Specific markers of this rapid community spread include when there is a sporadic case rate of 50 or more per 100,000 people in the last two weeks and the county has had more than five sporadic cases in the last two weeks (sporadic cases are those that cannot be traced to a source; they indicate community spread). Counties remain on the Watch List for a minimum of three weeks and until their sporadic case rates drop below these thresholds.

Governor Brown added, “This is also a good reminder to all Oregonians—especially to those who live in Watch List counties—of the importance of remaining vigilant. I urge all Oregonians to keep practicing physical distancing, wearing face coverings, and practicing good hygiene. Your choices matter, and we are truly all in this together.”

The complete County Watch List now includes the following ten counties: Baker, Hood River, Jefferson, Lake, Malheur, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Umatilla, and Wasco.

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Oregon reports 416 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 5 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed 5 more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 316, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 416 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 18,131.

The new cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (3), Benton (7), Clackamas (22), Clatsop (2), Columbia (3), Coos (4), Crook (2), Deschutes (15), Douglas (2), Hood River (5), Jackson (10), Jefferson (12), Klamath (1), Lake (1), Lane (10), Lincoln (2), Linn (4), Malheur (18), Marion (38), Morrow (9), Multnomah (61), Polk (7), Umatilla (101), Union (1), Wasco (2), Washington (63), and Yamhill (11).

Oregon’s 312^th COVID-19 death is a 78-year-old man in Umatilla County who tested positive on July 10 and died on July 28, at Good Samaritan Health Care Center in Yakima, WA. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 313^th COVID-19 death is an 85-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on July 15 and died on July 27, at Providence Portland Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 314^th COVID-19 death is a 68-year-old woman in Umatilla County who tested positive on July 10 and died on July 28, at Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, WA. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 315^th COVID-19 death is a 66-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on July 18 and died on July 26, at Portland Adventist Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 316^th COVID-19 death is an 82-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on July 4 and died on July 23, at Providence Portland Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

NOTE: Umatilla’s case counts appear to be very high due to a delay in processing their electronic laboratory reports (ELRs).

Errata: The OHA weekly report initially and incorrectly reported an increase in cases for the week of Monday, July 20 through Sunday, July 26 over the previous week. Cases actually declined to 2,241 from 2,409, a drop of about 7 percent.

REDMOND, OR  -- Last week a 45-year-old Portland man, Martin Morin, was online and thought he was interacting with a 15 year old girl. Lieutenant Jesse Petersen with Redmond Police says Morin was actually talking to an undercover detective. He says Morin had conversations of a sexual nature and agreed to meet the supposed teenager at Dry Canyon Park on Tuesday. Petersen says Morin showed up and so did Redmond police. He was arrested for Online Sexual Corruption of a Child and Luring a Minor Bail set. at 25-thousand dollars.

CENTRAL OREGON  -- The hot dry weather is keeping Oregon Department of Forestry staff busy. Information Officer Christie Shaw says they’ve attacked three lightning caused fires since Monday. She says they attacked them and kept them from making a wide spread. Shaw says the fires ranged from one-tenth of an acre to four acres. She says they’re using an aircraft that’s equipped with infra-red and Electro-Optical cameras to help them spot fires before smoke is visible. Shaw urges the public to quickly report any fires they see.

BEND, OR -- Public Health Director Nahad Sadr-Azodi was asked by Deschutes County Commissioners yesterday to compare the number of deaths caused by seasonal flu to those caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. Sadr-Azodi said the Center for Disease Control estimates the flu killed 20-25 thousand people last season in the U.S. So far, more than 150 thousand lives have been claimed by COVID-19 which he says is about six times more than the numkber of lu deaths this season. Health Services Director Dr. George Conway noted while the flu is a respiratory disease, the virus affects almost all organs in the body. He says recovery from the virus is usually much longer than recovery from the flu.  

Oregon reports 304 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 8 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed eight more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 311, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 304 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 17,721.

The new confirmed cases are in the following counties: Benton (3), Clackamas (28), Clatsop (1), Crook (3), Deschutes (16), Douglas (2), Hood River (7), Jackson (13), Jefferson (5), Josephine (4), Klamath (2), Lane (13), Lincoln (2), Linn (1), Malheur (20), Marion (20), Morrow (5), Multnomah (82), Polk (4), Umatilla (4), Union (1), Wallowa (1), Wasco (3), Washington (51) and Yamhill (13).

Oregon’s 304^th COVID-19 death is a 72-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on July 10 and died on July 23, in his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 305^th COVID-19 death is a 90-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on July 23 and died on July 27, in her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 306^th COVID-19 death is a 94-year-old woman in Umatilla County who tested positive on July 22 and died on July 28, in her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 307^th COVID-19 death is an 87-year-old woman in Umatilla County who tested positive on July 16 and died on July 27, in her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 308^th COVID-19 death is an 85-year-old woman in Morrow County who tested positive on July 10 and died on July 21. Location of death and presence of underlying conditions are being confirmed.

Oregon’s 309^th COVID-19 death is a 65-year-old man in Jackson County who tested positive on June 29 and died on July 25, at Providence Portland Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 310^th COVID-19 death is a 79-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on July 27 and died on July 28, at Providence Portland Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 311^th COVID-19 death is a 73-year-old woman in Umatilla County who tested positive on June 21 and died on July 19. Location of death is being confirmed. She had underlying conditions.

Expanded County-level Data Dashboard Released

OHA published a new, expanded version of Oregon’s “COVID-19 Testing and Outcomes by County” dashboard today.

The dashboard now includes additional information on weekly trends in the percent of COVID-19 tests that have been positive by county and weekly trends in the total number of persons tested for COVID-19 by county.

These trends help us understand changes in the burden of COVID-19 in communities across Oregon.

Weekly report shows daily increase and lower positivity for COVID-19

Today, OHA released its Weekly Report, which showed that during the week of July 20–26, 42,452 people were tested for COVID-19 in Oregon, and 5.1 percent of them had a positive result, down from 6.6 percent last week.

During that week, OHA recorded 2,241 new cases of COVID-19 infection, an increase from the previous week. In addition, 27 Oregonians were reported to have died, which is a slight increase from the previous week.

Large outbreaks have contributed a diminishing proportion of recent cases, and sporadic cases (those not linked to another case) have increased, consistent with community spread.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

SALEM, OR -- The Oregon State Marine Board is looking at allowing boaters with a disability to use electric motors on North and South Twin Lakes. Josh Mulhollem is a Policy Manager with the board. He says a local person made a request to use an electric motor at the lakes because of a disability. Mulhollem says staff will write rules for the disabled boaters to use electric motors at no wake-speed. He says they will have to figure out the definition of a disability and how the person can prove they qualify for the exemption. Mulhollem says new rules will be submitted in September for approval by the Marine Board, probably in October.

REDMOND, OR -- Planning for a school year during a pandemic takes a lot of coordination. Kelly Jenkins with the Redmond School District told our newsroom they’re ready for in-class and online learning this fall. Jenkins says the elementary schools will offer a full time, in-class option, and middle and high school students will be served by a hybrid program which consists of on-site and remote learning. She says Redmond Schools will be adhering to guidelines from the Oregon Health Authority and Department of Education to keep kids safe. For the latest information on fall schedules go to fall-2020-dot-redmond schools-dot-org.

BEND, OR -- A 20-year-old Bend man has been charged with a crime for an incident during a Black Lives Matter demonstration. Dylan Freville is accused of quickly accelerating his truck and emitting thick plumes of diesel smoke from the truck exhaust pipe onto people attending the rally on May 30th. Deschutes County D-A John Hummel says this type of incident is nicknamed “Rolling Coal” and is often used on people riding bikes and using electric cars. Hummel says people at the demonstration got Freville’s picture while Freville himself bragged about what he had done on Instagram. Bend Police cited Freville who is charged with 2-counts of harassment.

REDMOND, OR -- Three rodeo organizations...High Desert Stampede…Sisters Rodeo…and Crooked River Roundup are joining with Deschutes County Fair & Expo to put on the “Cascade Chute Out” in mid-September. Geoff Hinds, Director of the Fair & Expo says the three rodeos will be competing against each other, using world class animals to crown one champion. Hinds says they will follow state guidelines requiring social distancing and the wearing of masks. The Cascade Chute Out is scheduled for September 15th to the 19^th at the Fair & Expo In Redmond.

CENTRAL OREGON -- An experienced mountain climber from Kennewick, Washington fell several hundred feet to his death on Mount Jefferson Saturday. 65-year-old David Freepons slipped, fell, was unable to stop, hit a rock and died. Due to the dangerous conditions Freepons body was left on the mountain. Jefferson county Search and Rescue Teams are being helped by SAR teams from Deschutes, Linn, Lane and Benton counties. Jefferson County Sergeant David Pond says they have developed a plan to use a helicopter to remove the body to a lower elevation location where there is vehicle access. Pond urges people to be careful outdoors this summer. Pond says the nice weather on weekends has increased search and rescue efforts in several areas of Oregon.   
 

The Deschutes National Forest is asking the public to help them with information about wildfires this month they believe were arson caused. Jean Nelson-Dean at the forest says the fires were between 2-and-6 miles from La Pine. She says the fires they need information about are:

The Paulina Lake Fire, Sunday, July 5^th near Highway 97 and Forest Road 21.

The Finley Fire, July 8^th near Darlene Way and Finley Butte Road.

And the Rosland Road Fire, Saturday, July 18^th near Rosland Road and Newberry Estates.  Anyone with information asked to contact the Deschutes National Forest.

Oregon reports 342 new confirmed and presumptive COVID- 19 cases, 14 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed 14 more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 303, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 342 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 17,416. The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Benton (3), Clackamas (15), Clatsop (3), Coos (3), Crook (2), Curry (1), Deschutes (7), Douglas (2), Harney (1), Jackson (10), Jefferson (9), Josephine (9), Klamath (2), Lane (6), Linn (5), Malheur (15), Marion (40), Morrow (7), Multnomah (74), Polk (13), Umatilla (75), Washington (31), and Yamhill (9).

A message of condolence

“As we surpass 300 deaths related to COVID-19, including the 14 deaths reported today, I wish to extend sincere condolences on behalf of everyone at OHA to the families who have lost a loved one to this disease. It is a stark reminder of the work all Oregonians need to do to bring this pandemic under control. Together we can slow this disease and prevent this terrible loss of life.” – OHA Director Patrick Allen

Oregon’s 290th COVID-19 death is a 77-year-old male in Multnomah County who tested positive on June 19 and died on July 22 at Portland Adventist Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 291st COVID-19 death is a 79-year-old male in Multnomah County who tested positive on July 3 and died on July 20 at Portland Adventist Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 292nd COVID-19 death is a 77-year-old female in Jefferson County who tested positive on June 30 and died on July 23 at St. Charles Medical Center in Bend. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 293rd COVID-19 death is a 94-year-old female in Clackamas County who tested positive on July 19 and died on July 26 in her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 294th COVID-19 death is a 54-year-old male in Malheur County who tested positive on June 24 and died on July 15 at St. Luke’s Nampa Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 295th COVID-19 death is a 26-year-old male in Yamhill County who died in his residence on July 10. The death certificate listed COVID-19 disease or SARS-CoV-2, as a cause of death or as a significant condition that contributed to his death.

Oregon’s 296th COVID-19 death is a 91-year-old female in Clackamas County who became symptomatic on July 22, after close contact with a confirmed case, and died on July 26. Location of death and presence of underlying medical conditions are being confirmed.

Oregon’s 297th COVID-19 death is an 88-year-old male in Deschutes County who tested positive on July 23 and died on July 25 at St. Charles Medical Center in Bend. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 298th COVID-19 death is a 78-year-old female in Deschutes County who tested positive on July 12 and died on July 23. Location of death is being confirmed. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 299th COVID-19 death is a 64-year-old female in Jefferson County who tested positive on July 14 and died on July 27. Location of death and presence of underlying conditions are being confirmed.

Oregon’s 300th COVID-19 death is an 82-year-old female in Jefferson County who tested positive on July 20 and died on July 26. Location of death is being confirmed. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 301st COVID-19 death is an 87-year-old male in Marion County who tested positive on July 14 and died on July 26 at Salem Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 302nd COVID-19 death is a 66-year-old female in Marion County who tested positive on July 14 and died on July 24. Location of death is being confirmed. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 303rd death is an 84-year-old female in Umatilla County who tested positive on July 22 and died on July 25. Location of death is being confirmed. She had underlying conditions.

BEND, OR -- The pandemic hasn’t slowed down outdoor enthusiasts in Bend. Julie Brown with Bend Parks and Recreation told our newsroom that water ways here in the area are seeing a boom in visitors. Brown says they put a counter near the Bend whitewater park and it tallied 7-thousand visitors in one day on the 4th of July. Brown says they’ve handed out masks to some people as they exit the water with little to no resistance. Brown says summer programs have been a welcome relief to housebound kids and staff but fall programs are still to be determined. Log onto bend parks and rec dot org for the latest information.

REDMOND, OR -- The American Airlines flight from Redmond to Los Angeles will end later this year. Central Oregon Daily reports Redmond Airport Director Zach Bass confirmed also that American plans to add a second flight to Phoenix. Bass said he couldn’t add more details on the service change only that it was not happening immediately. American Airlines added daily direct service from Redmond to Los Angeles in 2013.

BEND, OR  -- Deschutes County Commissioners voted unanimously yesterday to prohibit parking along Wilcox Avenue and other several other streets surrounding or near Smith Rock State Park. Neighbors have complained for years that the parking is a safety issue. Other streets with restrictions include Northeast 1^st, 5^th, 9^th, 17^th, 33^rd and Xenolith. The state park says it will add 25 more parking spots in an overflow lot at the park to ease the congestion. 

Oregon reports 340 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 0 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — The state’s death toll from COVID-19 is unchanged from yesterday and remains at 289, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 340 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 17,088.

The new cases are in the following counties: Benton (2), Clackamas (7), Columbia (1), Coos (1), Crook (1), Deschutes (11), Douglas (1), Harney (1), Hood River (1), Jackson (11), Jefferson (9), Lane (8), Lincoln (1), Malheur (8), Marion (26), Morrow (4), Multnomah (119), Polk (9), Umatilla (47), Wasco (1), Washington (61), and Yamhill (9).

COVID weekly testing summary shows declining positive rate

According to OHA’s Weekly Testing Summary, 38,179 COVID-19 test results were reported last week, of which 4.8 percent were positive. This represents the first weekly decline in percent positivity since it began increasing in late May.

Unfortunately, OHA continues to receive widespread reports of extended turnaround time from commercial laboratories; in some cases, results are being reported up to two weeks following specimen collection. Supply shortages due to supply chain issues continue to be of concern and OHA is closely monitoring the situation.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

From Deschutes County D-A John Hummel

BEND RESTAURANT CUSTOMER CHARGED WITH BIAS CRIME

On June 28, 2020, 31-year-old Bend resident Billal Ahmedin walked into the Red Robin restaurant in Bend to pick up an order as part of his job as a delivery person for Door Dash food delivery service.  Mr. Ahmedin picked up the delivery food bag from the area in the bar where delivery orders are left for delivery drivers.  35-year-old Bend resident Jeremiah McBride was a customer in the bar, saw Mr. Ahmedin pick up the delivery order, and confronted him.  Mr. Ahmedin told Mr. McBride he was a delivery driver, but this did not deter Mr. McBride.  Mr. McBride persisted with his hostile attitude, including calling the victim the N-word. 

Mr. Ahmedin walked outside to his car, and Mr. McBride pursued him.  Mr. Ahmedin started to drive off when Mr. McBride violently kicked the car, causing damage.  Mr. Ahmedin got out of his car and Mr. McBride then shouted at him and shoved him.  Witnesses, including the Red Robin bartender who came outside, observed the incident.

Today, Deschutes County District Attorney John Hummel charged McBride with the crimes of bias crime in the second degree, harassment, and criminal mischief in the second degree.  Mr. McBride is presumed innocent of these charges, and in fact is innocent of them, unless and until the State proves his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 

Mr. McBride’s first court appearance is for an arraignment on August 25, 2020 at 1:15. 

Statement from District Attorney Hummel:

“Oregon’s bias crime law exists for situations exactly like this.  A shove is more than a shove when a person is shoved because of the color of their skin. 

By all accounts, Billal Ahmedin is one of the hardest workers in our community. He shines in his job by getting in and out of restaurants, and to his customers, as quickly as possible.  He’s saving money in pursuit of his dream to one day open an Ethiopian food truck in our community. 

To be challenged by a customer at Red Robin, a place he has picked up orders dozens of times, must have been disheartening.  But after responding that he was a delivery driver, being disbelieved, called the N-word, pursued outside, having his car kicked and damaged, and being shouted at and shoved, must have been demoralizing, hurtful, and maddening. It is something that would never have happened to a white man.  Billal is a valued member of our community and I stand with him.”     

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BEND, OR -- Deschutes County Sheriff Shane Nelson is happy the county stabilization center is now operating 24/7 thanks to a more than 2-million-dollar state grant. The center helps people with mental health and addiction issues. He says the grant money allowed them to hire Behavioral Health Specialists to partner with the Mobile Crisis Assessment Team and they have also increased behavioral health programs inside the jail.

CENTRAL OREGON -- ODOT is busy on projects to keep drivers here in Central Oregon both safe and sane. The Department’s Peter Murphy spoke to our newsroom about a welcome upgrade to traffic signals along US 97 from the north end of Bend through Redmond. Murphy says drivers who become frustrated when sitting at a red light while no one is going in the direction of the green light, can relax. New software allows traffic lights to adjust so drivers don’t have to wait unnecessarily. Murphy says ODOT is also in the final phases of an under-crossing project in Gilchrist to lessen vehicle-animal collisions.

BEND, OR -- The City of Bend Transportation Department is winding down the 2020 Seasonal Preservation Work. Director David Abbas says they got an early start due to COVID-19. He says they finished 15 lane miles of chip seal work…another 40 lane-miles of slurry seal and…another 23 lane-miles of paving. Abbas says late summer into fall the striping, landscaping and concrete crews will be busy until the snow flies. Abbas says the City of Bend’s P-C-I, the Pavement Condition Index is good, rated in the low 80’s.  

CENTRAL OREGON -- Due to the extreme fire danger level, the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Bureau of Land Management have increased the I-F-P-L, the Industrial Fire Protection Level from 2-to-3, effective now. This means the use of power and chainsaws for firewood cutting is not allowed until further notice. Also, campfires allowed only in designated campgrounds. Spark arrestors are required on motorized equipment. Also do not park vehicle of any kind on vegetation as the undercarriage of the vehicle can get hot enough to start a fire.

POST,L OREGON -- A wildfire burning west of Post, The Wickiup Road Fire, was held at 101 acres and 80-per cent contained by this (Monday) morning. The fire broke out Saturday afternoon on private land and quickly moved to Prineville BLM managed land. The fire has destroyed two homes, a cabin and multiple outbuildings. Work continues to fully contain the fire while the cause remains under investigation.  Firefighters will be released from the incident to preposition themselves due to a Red Flag Warning throughout most of Central Oregon for dry thunderstorms. The warning in place from 4 this afternoon until 11-Tuesday night.

BEND, OR -- The Chief Physician Executive at Saint Charles Health, Doctor Jeff Absalon participated in a COVID-19 webinar yesterday. He says, the hospital is nearing capacity and as of now, there are 16 positive virus cases with 5 patients in ICU. He says they saw a surge in early April then a drop off.  Absalon says in the last 7 or 8 weeks however case numbers have gone up steadily. He says case numbers in the hospital are the highest since the start of the pandemic.

BEND, OR -- Police have arrested a La Pine man following an 8-month investigation into a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old juvenile. 48-year-old Jason Neal Petz is charged with Rape, Sodomy and Sex Abuse. Police say the two would frequent motels in Bend and possibly other motels in Central Oregon. They were known to travel in a gold, 2007 Chevy Silverado pickup. The investigation is on-going. Anyone with information asked to call Bend police.  

BEND, OR -- The Bend City Council voted yesterday to allow civil fines for those who refuse to follow the governor’s order on the wearing of face masks.  The council voted 4-to-3 in favor of the motion. Mayor Sally Russell said she has visited businesses of all kinds, large and small, and found customers and employees wearing masks and usually saw one customer borderline aggressive and belligerent when asked to wear a mask. Councilor Justin Livingston says everywhere he goes the vast majority of people are wearing a mask. He says places like the river have lots of people and few masks. The order carries fines ranging from 100-to-500 dollars. The council 

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed nine more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 282, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 396 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 16,104.

The new cases are in the following counties: Baker (1), Clackamas (25), Columbia (1), Crook (1), Curry (2), Deschutes (16), Douglas (6), Gilliam (1), Hood River (4), Jackson (5), Jefferson (22), Josephine (1), Klamath (2), Lane (16), Linn (7), Malheur (18), Marion (58), Multnomah (71), Polk (6), Umatilla (59), Wasco (1), Washington (54), and Yamhill (8).

Today’s nine deaths are the highest number of deaths reported in a single day in Oregon since the start of the pandemic.

Oregon’s 274th COVID-19 death is a 61-year-old woman in Multnomah County who died July 18 in her residence. The death certificate listed COVID-19 disease, or SARS-CoV-2, as a cause of death, or as a significant condition that contributed to her death. No confirmatory testing for COVID-19 was performed, but this aligns with the CSTE probable case definition for a presumptive case, which OHA follows.

Oregon’s 275th COVID-19 death is a 68-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive June 5 and died July 16, at Providence Portland Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 276th COVID-19 death is a 92-year-old man in Deschutes County who tested positive July 12 and died July 18. His place of death is being confirmed. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 277th COVID-19 death is a 96-year-old man in Deschutes County who tested positive July 12 and died July 23, in his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 278th COVID-19 death is a 90-year-old woman in Malheur County who tested positive July 9 and died July 23, in her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 279th COVID-19 death is a 74-year-old man in Marion County who tested positive July 3 and died July 22, at Salem Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 280th COVID-19 death is a 62-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive July 18 and died July 18. More information is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 281st COVID-19 death is an 87-year-old woman in Umatilla County who tested positive July 10 and died July 22. She had underlying conditions. Her place of death is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 282nd COVID-19 death is a 69-year-old man in Umatilla who tested positive July 8 and died July 21, in his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Outbreak reported at Norris Blueberry Farm

An outbreak of 22 cases of COVID-19 has been reported at Norris Blueberry Farm in Douglas County. The case count includes all persons linked to the outbreak, which may include household members and other close contacts to an employee.

The investigation started June 25, but the initial case count was below the threshold for public disclosure.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

Oregon reports 331 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 2 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed two more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 273, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 331 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 15,713.

The new cases are in the following counties: Clackamas (18), Columbia (3), Coos (3), Crook (1), Deschutes (18), Douglas (13), Hood River (1), Jackson (8), Jefferson (3), Josephine (3), Klamath (13), Lake (1), Lane (12), Lincoln (5), Linn (3), Malheur (10), Marion (39), Morrow (4), Multnomah (77), Polk (13), Tillamook (1), Umatilla (39), Wasco (6), Washington (33), and Yamhill (4).

Oregon’s 272nd COVID-19 death is a 74-year-old man in Umatilla County who tested positive on June 29 and died on July 16, at Good Shepherd Health Care System. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 273rd COVID-19 death is a 79-year-old woman in Marion County who tested positive on July 8 and died on July 21, at Salem Hospital. She had underlying conditions. 

OHA updates new modeling showing need to stay the course

OHA updated its bi-weekly modeling report today, showing various trajectories for COVID-19.

The modeling presents three scenarios:

• If the current transmission rate continues, new daily infections would rise steadily over the next four weeks to around 1,600 infections a day by Aug. 13, with 27 hospitalizations.
• If transmission decreased by 10 percentage points from current rates, the estimated number of new infections would decrease over time to 600 infections a day by Aug. 13 with 17 hospitalizations.
• Finally, a pessimistic scenario, in which transmission increases by 10 percentage points from the current rates, shows 2,300 new daily infections by Aug. 13 with 46 hospitalizations.

The projections show the need for Oregonians to continue to wear face coverings, stay six feet apart and limit the size of social gatherings to bend the curve again. These actions, along with the recent measures put in place by Gov. Kate Brown, will make a difference in the course of COVID-19 in our state.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority leads the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

Oregon reports 264 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 2 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed two more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 271, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 264 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 15,393.

The new cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (1), Benton (3), Clackamas (24), Clatsop (1), Coos (3), Crook (2), Curry (1), Deschutes (8), Douglas (2), Grant (1), Hood River (4), Jackson (11), Jefferson (6), Josephine (1), Klamath (6), Lane (6), Lincoln (2), Linn (6), Malheur (13), Marion (31), Morrow (3), Multnomah (51), Polk (4), Umatilla (24), Wasco (1), Washington (45), and Yamhill (4).

Oregon’s 270^th COVID-19 death is a 77-year-old man in Umatilla County who tested positive on July 9 and died on July 20, in his residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 271^st COVID-19 death is an 82-year-old man in Umatilla County who tested positive on July 16 and died on July 21, at Good Shepherd Hospital in Hermiston. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

OHA weekly media availability scheduled

OHA Director Patrick Allen and State Medical Director Dean Sidelinger will hold their weekly media availability Friday, July 24, at 11 a.m. Media is invited to call 844-867-6163. Access Code 593699.

OHA Releases Weekly Report

OHA released its Weekly Report today, noting that the recent COVID-19 resurgence continued during the week from July 13 – 19. Over that week, there were 2,409 new cases of COVID-19, a 26 percent increase from the previous week.

The percentage of tests positive increased again to 6.6 percent from 6.2 percent. Meanwhile, large outbreaks have contributed a diminishing proportion of recent cases, and sporadic cases (cases not traced to another case) have increased, consistent with diffuse community spread.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

CENTRAL OREGON -- The U-S Forest Service, the Oregon Department of Forestry and Bend Fire & Rescue have all raised fire danger levels to Extreme. Jean Nelson-Dean at the Deschutes National Forest urges everyone who plans to be outdoors to recreate to be very careful. She says it’s important to understand and review Public Use Restrictions before visiting an area. The Rosland Road Fire northeast of La Pine that broke out Saturday is still at 393 acres and now 90-

per cent contained. The cause of the fire remains under investigation

CENTRAL OREGON -- The Phase 2 reopening helped reduce unemployment levels in Central Oregon in June. State Economist Damon Runberg says Deschutes county unemployment fell to 12-per cent compared to 16-point-3-per in May…Crook county dropped from 17-point-1-to-13-point-5-per cent…and Jefferson county’s unemployment went from 17-per cent-to-13-point-1-per cent in June. Runberg says a problem being hidden by the huge jumps in people going back to work is a surge in permanent layoffs. He says we’re seeing a more permanent layoff trend that’s more like a real recession, not a shock to the economy causing layoffs, as happened when COVID-19 spread.

A La Pine woman who worked for 6 years at the Oregon Pride Nursery near McMinnville has been charged with stealing 4-point-4-million dollars from the company. 61-year-old Jeanna Lee Buxton worked for the nursery from 2013-to 2019. The nursery filed a report of suspected fraud in February after finding suspicious transactions. The company worked with an accounting firm and conducted an extensive audit of their books.  Buxton was arrested Monday and is lodged in the Deschutes County jail with bail set at 200-thousand dollars. Buxton faces 21 counts of aggravated first-degree theft.

WARM SPRINGS, OR -- The Confederated Tribes of Warm springs is in quarantine until at least August 3^rd following a spike in COVID-19 cases. The reservation has a population of 5-thouand and had 120 virus cases as of last Friday. Warm Springs Director of Government Affairs, Louie Pitt Junior told the Bend Bulletin the situation will be reviewed on August 3^rd and even if the trends are better they may stay closed another week or two. The order says to stay at home except for trips to the grocery store or to a doctor, and to wear a mask at all times. Pitt also says the Casino has closed again due to staffing issues.

The Better Business Bureau has received over 13,000 complaints about moving scams in the last year. Danielle Kane with BBB says that the most alarming complaint they’ve encountered was extortion. She says once the goods are loaded onto the truck, scammers will charge thousands of dollars on top of the amount that was already agreed upon. Kane says also look for company logos on vehicles and minor deposit fees. Real moving companies have insignias on clothing and trucks and don’t usually charge anything to get started. Kane said once your goods are on the truck it’s illegal to raise the price.

Oregon reports 299 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 7 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed seven more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 269, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 299 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 15,139.

The new cases are in the following counties: Baker (2), Benton (1), Clackamas (15), Clatsop (3), Columbia (1), Coos (1), Deschutes (7), Douglas (3), Harney (2), Hood River (4), Jackson (5), Jefferson (8), Josephine (2), Klamath (1), Lake (1), Lane (3), Malheur (18), Marion (40), Morrow (10), Multnomah (67), Polk (3), Umatilla (59), Union (2), Wasco (1), Washington (32), and Yamhill (8).

Oregon’s 263^rd COVID-19 death is an 88-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive on June 10 and died on June 15, in her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 264^th COVID-19 death is an 88-year-old woman in Malheur County who tested positive on June 28 and died on July 19. Her place of death and underlying conditions are being confirmed.

Oregon’s 265^th COVID-19 death is a 52-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on June 24 and died on July 18 at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 266^th COVID-19 death is a 59-year-old man in Washington County who tested positive on June 23 and died on July 15, at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. He did not have underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 267^th COVID-19 death is an 88-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on July 7 and died on July 19, at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 268^th COVID-19 death is an 87-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on June 23 and died on July 20. He had underlying conditions. His place of death is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 269^th COVID-19 death is a 47-year-old man in Umatilla County who tested positive on June 29 and died on July 17 at Providence St. Mary Medical Center in Walla Walla, Washington. He had underlying conditions.

Outbreak reaches 23 cases

An outbreak of 23 cases of COVID-19 has been reported at Walmart Distribution Center in Umatilla County. The case count includes all persons linked to the outbreak, which may include household members and other close contacts to an employee. The investigation started on June 30, but the initial case count was below the threshold for public disclosure. State and county public health officials are working together to address the outbreak and protect the health of workers.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

RECMOND, OR -- The Redmond School Board meets virtually at 5-30 Wednesday and one item on the agenda is to refund some bonds. School District Fiscal Director Kathy Stienert says it’s like refinancing a home. She says the bonds they will refund were originally sold in 2008 and then refunded in 2013. Steinert says the move saves Redmond school district taxpayers 4-point-3-million dollars.

BEND, OR -- Officials from State Parks met with Deschutes County Commissioners yesterday, trying to resolve parking problems at Smith Rock State Park. J-R Collier from state parks says they’re looking to add 25 to 50 parking spots by Labor Day weekend…when the next big surge of visitors is expected. Commissioners next week will look at an order to not allow parking on Wilcox, 17^th and 33^rd Streets near the park. The order may also include a few streets near the park where parking could be allowed. 

On Monday, the Executive Director of Giving Plate, Renae Staly got a call from Hayden Homes because they wanted to come by, take a tour and drop off, quote “a little check.” Hayden Homes handed her a check for 25-thousand dollars. Staley wants to use that money to deliver food to home-bound people who are at high risk for COVID-19. The Vice President of Community Engagement at Hayden Homes, Deborah Flagan says Giving Plate is an incredible partner because they know where the need is in our community.

With hot weather in the forecast be careful to take of your pets. Humane Society Outreach Manager Lynn Ouchida says don’t leave your dog or cat in a car on a day like today. She says be careful when taking the dog for a walk. The asphalt and sidewalks and even hiking trails can become very. Ouichida reminds owners to keep dogs and cats inside whenever possible on these hot days. If they must be out, have plenty of water and a shelter for them to get out of the heat.

Oregon reports 277 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 2 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed two more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 262, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 277 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 14,847. The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Clackamas (11), Clatsop (2), Columbia (1), Crook (1), Deschutes (19), Douglas (2), Harney (1), Hood River (2), Jackson (5), Jefferson (7), Josephine (2), Klamath (5), Lake (1), Lane (4), Lincoln (2), Malheur (10), Marion (30), Morrow (1), Multnomah (85), Polk (1), Umatilla (41), Washington (38), Yamhill (6).

Oregon’s 261^st COVID-19 death is a 76-year-old man in Marion County who tested positive on June 22 and died on July 17, at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 262^nd COVID-19 death is a 92-year-old man in Marion County who tested positive on July 8 and died on July 18, in his residence. He had underlying conditions.

OHA Releases Weekly Testing Summary

OHA released its Weekly Testing Summary today showing 39,301 tests were performed from July 13-18.* Of those tests, 2,292 were reported positive, for a percent positivity rate of 5.8 percent, unchanged from the week prior. The most recent weekly testing capacity estimate is 41,000 tests.

The report continues to caution that several major manufacturers have informed OHA that testing supply allocation are being or may be reduced over the next six to eight weeks due to the recent spike in positive COVID-19 cases nationally and increased demand for testing and point-of-care tests continue to be in short supply due to the high demand for testing supplies. OHA is receiving widespread reports of extended turnaround time from commercial laboratories; in some cases, results are being reported two weeks following specimen collection. OHA will continue to monitor this concerning situation.

*NOTE: The summary of Oregon test results timeframe in the Weekly Testing Summary is shifting to match with CDC’s MMWR report week, which is reported Sundays through Saturdays. To achieve this without reporting overlapping data, today’s report reflects a six-day week (7/13-7/18).

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

From Bend La Pine Schools

Finalists for Curriculum, Instruction Leader Announced

Public invited to virtual forum with finalists Wednesday, July 22

Bend-La Pine Schools invites community members to attend an online public forum with three finalists for the Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction on Wednesday, July 22 at 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Community members interested in participating can join the WebEx event/ video access:

• Join online: https://bit.ly/BLSwebExJuly22  (Note: If prompted, event number is 120 429 1992 and password is BLP123)

• Audio access: 408-418-9388 Access code: 120 429 1922

Attendees will have audio muted, but will be able to ask questions through the WebEx chat feature.

Those who need accommodations or translation services to participate in the forum, please call Bend-La Pine Schools’ Education Center at 541-355-1001 by 5 p.m. on July 20.

The three finalists:

Thomas Allen Barber is currently Human Resources Director for Eagle Point School District 9 in Eagle Point, Oregon, a position he has served in for four years. Prior to that, he served as Director of Secondary Education for Eagle Point, Principal for Eagle Point High School and Assistant Principal at Okaloosa School District. He also has experience as a director of bands and music supervisor for 10 years at the high school level.

Juan Cuadros is currently the principal at Kelly Middle School in Eugene, a position he has served in for four years. Prior to that, he served as Principal at Buena Vista Spanish Immersion Elementary School, El Camino del Rio Elementary and Meadowlark Elementary School and Assistant Principal at Roosevelt Middle School in Eugene. He also has experience serving as a classroom teacher and multi-cultural liaison in Springfield, Oregon.

Carolos Sequeira is currently the Director of School Improvement for Lane Education Service District in Eugene, a position he has served in for four years. Prior to that, he served as the Director of District Collaboration for Bethel School District, Principal of Sherwood High School, Assistant Principal of Wilsonville High School and Dean of Students at Liberty High School. He also has experience as a social studies and world languages teacher.

The Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction leads the teaching and learning department, which includes planning and implementation of professional development for staff, curriculum review and materials adoption, and instructional technology. Skip Offenhauser, who most recently served in this role for Bend-La Pine Schools, is now serving as the Executive Director of Elementary Schools.

BEND OR  -- On Friday morning KBND reported the Bend City Council was considering a curfew of 10 p.m. During our interview with City Manager Eric King about the curfew issue, his answers focused on downtown bars and restaurants. However, we have been asked if the curfew would be “bars/restaurants downtown only” or a city wide curfew? KBND emailed that question to King on Friday morning. His answer, quote, “There are no details on what an implementation of a potential curfew would look like yet.  Council just discussed the general concept at their meeting on Wednesday. I anticipate more details to be shared next week.” 

REDMOLND, OR -- The Redmond School District Board meets tomorrow and will be asked to declare a Pest Emergency due to Rock Chucks. The large-bodied ground squirrels related to marmots, breed like crazy. The animals present a health hazard with their feces littering playgrounds and playing fields. The Redmond board will be asked to approve a request to Oregon’s Department of Fish & Wildlife to exterminate the Rock Chucks on the Hugh Hartman Early Learning Center campus. Redmond School Board meets virtually tomorrow beginning at 5-30 p.m.

BEND, OR -- The Bend City Council is considering when to ask voters to approve a 190-million dollar transportation bond. City Manager Eric King says the bond is designed to help  meet the Transportation Vision to the year 2040. He says the council voted last year to put the bond on the May ballot but later removed it due to COVID-19. King says if the measure goes to voters in November it may include what he calls, “economic qualifiers” such as delaying implementation or consideration of unemployment levels. King says another option is to put the bond before voters next May.

LA PINE OR -- The Rosland Road Fire, 4 miles northeast of La Pine stayed within containment lines yesterday and is 30 percent contained at 393 acres as of last night. Jean Nelson-Dean with the Deschutes National Forest says their goal yesterday was to strengthen the roads and lines surrounding the fire. She says Vince Grace was brought in to lead the Type 3 Incident Management team due to the complexity of the fire. The Deschutes County Sheriff lifted a “Level 1 Get Ready” evacuation notice for the Newberry Estates subdivision at 10-Sunday. The decision was made after Saturday winds pushed the fire away from the subdivision.

Oregon reports 307 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 5 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed five more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 254, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 307 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 13,802.

The new cases reported today are in the following counties: Benton (2), Clackamas (19), Clatsop (1), Columbia (2), Coos (4), Deschutes (12), Douglas (3), Hood River (2), Jackson (12), Jefferson (7), Josephine (2), Klamath (2), Lane (10), Lincoln (1), Linn (3), Malheur (9), Marion (39), Morrow (6), Multnomah (88), Polk (3), Umatilla (38), Union (2), Wasco (1), Washington (37) and Yamhill (2).

Oregon’s 250th COVID-19 death is a 77-year-old man in Wasco County who tested positive on June 27 and died on July 15 at OHSU Hospital. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 251st COVID-19 death is a 72-year-old man in Umatilla County who tested positive on July 8 and died on July 14, in his residence. He had no known underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 252nd COVID-19 death is a 99-year-old man in Marion County who tested positive on July 8 and died on July 15, in his residence. He had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 253rd COVID-19 death is an 82-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive on July 6 and died on July 16, in her residence. She had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 254th COVID-19 death is a 35-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on July 6 and died on July 11, in her residence. She had underlying medical conditions.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority leads the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

CENTRAL OREGON -- The Oregon Housing Authority has awarded Local Innovation and Fast Track Housing Program Funding Awards to Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity. The awards are known as LIFT according to Habitat Executive Director Scott Rohrer  He says an award went to a 10-unit development in Redmond called Quince Townhomes. Rohrer says two other affordable housing projects…Yeoman Townhomes in Bend and 27^TH Bend…also received LIFT money and construction will start after the first of next year. He says helping people become homeowners changes their lives for the better on many different levels. 

BEND, OR -- As we reported yesterday, 21 cases of COVID-19 have occurred at Mount Bachelor Memory Care Center in Bend. Deschutes County Preparedness Coordinator Morgan Emerson says the first case surfaced last Saturday at the care center. She says the Department of Human Services and the Oregon Health Authority have separated positive from negative cases…will test negative cases once a week… and work with Public Health for improvements at the care center as needed. Emerson says at this time none of the residents or staff have been hospitalized. She urges everyone to wear a mask, social distance, and wash hands to help slow the spread of the virus

Oregon reports 437 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 2 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed two more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 249, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 437 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 13, 509.

The new cases reported today are in the following counties: Benton (4), Clackamas (28), Clatsop (2), Coos (2), Deschutes (28), Douglas (4), Hood River (5), Jackson (8), Jefferson (6), Josephine (1), Klamath (3), Lane (12), Lincoln (3), Linn (4), Malheur (17), Marion (53), Morrow (8), Multnomah (108), Polk (7), Tillamook (2), Umatilla (50), Union (1), Wasco (2), Washington (76), and Yamhill (3).

Today’s case count is the highest since the onset of the pandemic. The rise in cases is attributed to the spread of COVID-19 from social gatherings and sporadic spread. Worksite outbreaks and long term care facility outbreaks also are contributing cases to the daily count.

Since Oregon began reopening, we have seen outbreaks when people get together to celebrate with family and friends. Some examples include:

• Graduations
• Birthdays
• Weddings
• Holidays

COVID-19 is spreading more among social activities involving groups of younger people. OHA has recorded outbreaks linked to:

• An exercise classes
• A fraternity party
• A bachelor party

While it is difficult not to celebrate these events as we have in the past, COVID-19 is spreading in our communities and people must think hard about altering daily routines that may put people at risk.

OHA recommends that everyone:

• Limit the size of our gatherings
• Keep our distance
• Cover our faces
• Find alternative ways for those who are vulnerable to participate.

Oregon’s 248th COVID-19 death is a 97-year-old man in Malheur County who tested positive on June 29 and died on July 15, in his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 249th COVID-19 death is a 58-year-old woman in Malheur County who tested positive on July 6 and died on July 13. Place of death and presence of underlying conditions are being confirmed.

Note: The date of Oregon’s 244th death was reported inaccurately yesterday. Oregon’s 244th COVID-19 death is a 63-year-old man in Deschutes County who tested positive on July 13 and died on July 14, at St. Charles Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority leads the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

SUNRIVER, OR -- A full-time resident of Sunriver, Doug Hoseshak, told Deschutes County Commissioners he and others plan to protest at the Sunriver Owners Association meeting this week. He says there are a lot of renters in groups of 12 to 18 people and many refuse to wear masks. Hoseshak says elderly people who have asked hikers to wear a mask have been physically pushed off the trail. Sunriver Police Chief Cory Darling told KBND Hoseshak is, quote, “an activist” who he described as having “strong opinions” about renters. Darling said he and his officers are educating renters and others about the governor’s mask order.

BEND, OR -- Bend police responded to a report of a man pointing a weapon at another man outside QuickWay Market on Northeast Butler Road Tuesday Night. 40-year-old Tonda Bowling and 45-year-old Anthony Paxton knew each other, according to Bend P-D Lieutenant Juli McConkey. She says police used “high risk” or guns drawn tactics when they arrived. The weapon however had been taken before police arrived and secured inside the QuickWay. McConkey says Tonda Bowling is charged with Felon in Possession of a Weapon, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and other charges. Paxton was not charged. McConkey says consumption of alcohol and marijuana were contributing factors in this incident.

BEND,L OR -- Deschutes County Health has been awarded a $2,400,000 IMPACTS grant from the Oregon Criminal Justice System and the Oregon Health Authority. The money will be used for mental health and addiction services treatment programs.  Brandi Shroyer with the Deschutes County D-A’s Office says the plan that was approved will likely be used in other areas of the state. The grant money will keep the Deschutes County Stabilization Center open 24-7 for the next two years and to hire additional staff.  The Warm springs Tribe also received an IMPACTS grant for nearly $283,000.

BEND, OR -- Deschutes County Health Services reports they are investigating an outbreak of more than 20 cases of COVID-19 at Mt. Bachelor Memory Care in Bend. A resident tested positive on July 11^th which spurred a quick response by Health Services to test all residents and staff. Still more test results are expected and contact tracing is ongoing to assess the scope of the spread. Health Services and staff at Mt. Bachelor Memory Care are working closely with state agencies to manage the outbreak. Health Services Director Dr. George Conway says he is concerned for the facility’s vulnerable residents, as well as their families and staff.

Oregon reports 282 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 4 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed four more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 247, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 282 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 13,081.

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (1), Benton (1), Clackamas (24), Columbia (2), Coos (2), Crook (1), Deschutes (12), Douglas (4), Jackson (9), Jefferson (2), Josephine (1), Klamath (1), Lane (9), Lincoln (2), Linn (2), Malheur (15), Marion (38), Morrow (3), Multnomah (59), Polk (4), Tillamook (1), Umatilla (27), Union (4), Wasco (2), Washington (50), and Yamhill (6).

Oregon’s 244th COVID-19 death is a 63-year-old man in Deschutes County who tested positive on June 13 and died on June 14, at St. Charles Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 245th COVID-19 death is a 61-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on April 13 and died on May 6, in his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 246th death is an 85-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on April 11 and died on June 20, at Providence Portland Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 247th death is a 61-year-old woman in Douglas County who tested positive on June 28 and died on July 12, at Covenant Hospital in Lubbock, Texas. She had underlying conditions.

NOTE: The death of a 71-year-old woman from Multnomah County who died on May 5 was accidentally reported twice — once in the May 7 press release as Oregon’s 120th death, and again in the May 8 press release as Oregon’s 124th death. We regret the error. The total number of deaths today has been amended to reflect this change.

Weekly Report Released

Today, OHA released its Weekly Report which highlights the data trends for the week from July 6 through July 12. The report noted that the recent COVID-19 resurgence accelerated over the reporting week. OHA recorded 2,043 new cases of COVID-19 infection, a 7 percent increase from the previous week. In addition, 22 Oregonians were reported to have died, twice the number that died the preceding week. The percentage of tests positive increased to 6.2 percent from 5.0 percent though the daily number of newly reported infections appears to have plateaued for the first time since late May.

Hospitalizations also plateaued after increasing for the five consecutive weeks and remain below earlier peaks in March and April despite reported daily case counts approximately three times as high. These circumstances are probably due principally to 1) detection and reporting of a higher proportion of all infections that occur (more widespread testing; testing of asymptomatic contacts of known cases); and 2) actual increases in underlying rates of infection among younger people who are at lower risk of hospitalization than are those in older age groups. ICU bed usage remains well under capacity statewide.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority leads the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

SALEM, O0R -- The Legislature’s emergency board approves $50 million dollars to keep Oregon cultural and community organizations going during covid-19 forced closures. Half of the money goes directly to several events and venues, including the Shakespeare festival in Ashland, the Pendelton Roundup, and the High Desert Museum here in Central Oregon. The rest of the money, nearly $26 million dollars, will go to all Oregon counties for distribution. The money can be used for covid-19 impacted venue’s rent, mortgage or utilities.

BEND, OR -- Central Oregon is seeing more craft beer makers than ever before, but the new owner and partner of  Cascade Lakes Brewing Company, Bill Valentine, isn’t worried about the competition. He says there are a lot of changes coming on both the food and beverage side of the company and they have been implementing all the state health requirements since the pandemic started. Cascade Lakes is a community-based business and Valentine states they will always run it as such.

Today Neighbor Impact is celebrating Census Day to help ensure an accurate account and availability of resources in the region. The information is gathered once every ten years and is used to determine how billions of dollars in federal funding is handed out across the United States. If you haven’t already, check the census off your to-do list by filling out the census questionnaire online at my2020census.gov.

BEND, OR -- Applications are being accepted for the 17^th annual Bend Venture Conference in mid-October. Brian Vierra at Economic Development for Central Oregon says this year’s conference will include both live and virtual events due to COVID-19. Vierra says over the last 17 years 45 companies have received more than 12-million dollars. He says those same companies received nearly 700-million additional dollars in follow-up investments. Applications for the Bend Venture Conference are due no later than August 13^th

BEND, OR -- A 63-year-old man has become the first COVID-19 victim to die in Deschutes county. County Health Services Director Doctor George Conway says the man’s case was identified through contact tracing. He says the man had underlying medical conditions and was admitted to Saint Charles on Monday and died yesterday morning. Conway says people need to know this virus will have to be dealt with for a long time. He urges everyone to wear a mask and social distance whether indoors or out, especially when around people you don’t live with.     

From Deschutes County 

Deschutes County reports first COVID-19 death 

Deschutes County is saddened to report the first death of a County resident due to COVID-19. A 63-year-old man died earlier today at St. Charles Health System. He had underlying medical conditions and was admitted to the hospital for COVID-19 symptoms yesterday. His case was identified through local contact tracing.

“Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of our community member that passed away today,” said Deschutes County Health Services Director Dr. George Conway.  “Our hearts are heavy with this news and we want to assure the community that Health Services is committed to containing the transmission of this virus in Central Oregon.”

Deschutes County Health Services wants to remind residents to take these steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19:

• Wear a mask when out in public or around people you don’t live with;
• Maintain six feet of physical distance from people you don’t live with;
• Wash your hands frequently;
• Stay home if you feel ill; and
• Contact your doctor to be tested if you feel you have symptoms of COVID-19 

If you are experiencing symptoms and need guidance on when to seek medical care, please call the COVID-19 hotline at 541-699-5109.

As of June 14, Oregon Health Authority reports 276 cases of COVID-19 in Deschutes County. Of those, 198 are considered recovered. For local data and updates on COVID-19, visit our website at www.deschutes.org/covid-19.

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Oregon reports 380 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 7 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed seven more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 244, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today. The last time Oregon saw seven deaths in a single day was on April 28.

Oregon Health Authority reported 380 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 12,805.

The new cases are in the following counties: Benton (3), Clackamas (21), Clatsop (1), Columbia (3), Coos (1), Crook (1), Deschutes (9), Douglas (2), Hood River (3), Jackson (7), Jefferson (2), Josephine (6), Klamath (2), Lane (8), Linn (2), Malheur (35), Marion (46), Morrow (7), Multnomah (76), Polk (1), Tillamook (3), Umatilla (76), Union (3), Wasco (3), Washington (53), and Yamhill (6).

Oregon’s 238^th COVID-19 death is an 86-year-old woman in Marion County who tested positive on June 3 and died on July 12, in her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 239^th COVID-19 death is a 77-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on May 5 and died on July 2, at OHSU Hospital. He had underlying medical conditions.  

Oregon’s 240^th COVID-19 death is an 81-year-old woman in Wasco County who tested positive on June 27 and died on July 8. Her place of death is being confirmed. She had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 241^st COVID-19 death is a 91-year-old man in Lincoln County who tested positive on June 29 and died on July 10, in his residence. He had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 242^nd COVID-19 death is a 77-year-old woman in Marion County who tested positive on June 24 and died on July 13, in her residence. She had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 243^rd COVID-19 death is a 70-year-old man in Malheur County who tested positive on June 26 and died on July 11, at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Boise, Idaho. He had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 244^th COVID-19 death is a 95-year-old woman in Lincoln County who tested positive on June 29 and died on July 13. Her place of death is being confirmed. She had underlying medical conditions.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

BELLEVUE, WA -- A housewarming party in Bellevue, Washington turned violent over the weekend and involved a man from Bend. Police say a 41-year-old man got into an argument with his 22-year-old daughter who was hosting the party. KIRO Radio reports a 21-year-old man from Renton, Washington tried to intervene and was stabbed and killed by the father. A 24-year-old man from Bend then intervened and was stabbed multiple times before pulling out a handgun and shooting and killing the father. The Bend man was taken to a hospital for multiple wounds and is listed in stable condition. The woman host was treated and released from the hospital. Names of those involved have not been released. Police say they have recovered video evidence that captured part of the incident and are interviewing witnesses.

BEND, OR -- Saturday evening a confrontation at a demonstration at Wall and Greenwood in Bend led to charges against two men from LaPine.  A passenger in a pickup truck yelled something derogatory to 29-year-old Andrew John Heller who was taking part in the demonstration. Heller followed the truck on his bicycle and caught up with the men at Wall and Franklin.  The passenger, 37-year-old Darrell Goddard, opened his door into Heller causing him to fall off his bike. Then the driver, 50-year-old Robert Thompson, got out of the truck and pointed a handgun at Heller who was lying on the ground. The two men both got back in the truck and fled. Bend Police caught up with them about a mile away where they were cited in lieu of custody on charges including Assault and Menacing.

BEND, OR -- Bend Fire crews were called to Trader Joe’s after a report of an afternoon brush fire yesterday. Battalion Chief Trish Connolly says the fire was in brush and trees on the southeast corner behind Trader Joe’s. She says the fire was stopped at about one-tenth of an acre. The cause was determined to be a transient smoking a cigarette which ignited the grass. Southbound traffic on Highway 97 was blocked for a time due to fire equipment in the area.

BEND, OR -- A female Traffic Flagger was assaulted by a driver in Bend yesterday. 55-year-old Teresa McGuire of Bend had traffic stopped for several minutes at Butler Market and Hamehook Roads while crews prepared to move a house.  A dark colored Jeep Wrangler started to drive around her. McGuire was able to get the driver to stop, who then got out of his vehicle and assaulted her. She was later taken to St. Charles with non-life-threatening injuries.  Despite attempts to prevent him, the unidentified man was able to get back into his Jeep and drive off. He is described as white; tall with a thick build. The Sheriff's Office asks anyone with information on the identity of the subject to call non-emergency dispatch. (541-693-6911)

Oregon reports 280 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 3 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed three more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 237, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 280 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 12,438.

The new cases are in the following counties: Clackamas (20), Columbia (6), Coos (2), Gilliam (1), Hood River (2), Jackson (3), Klamath (1), Lane (4), Linn (1), Malheur (27), Marion (36), Morrow (9), Multnomah (82), Polk (2), Umatilla (28), Wallowa (1), Washington (47), and Yamhill (8).

Oregon’s 235th COVID-19 death is a 67-year-old man in Marion County who tested positive on July 8 and died July 11, in his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 236th COVID-19 death is a 76-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on July 1 and died July 4, in his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 237th COVID-19 death is a 54-year-old man in Umatilla County who died on July 8 in his residence and tested positive post-mortem on July 9. He had underlying conditions.

Two worksite outbreaks reported of 20 cases or more

An outbreak of 20 cases has been reported at Shearer’s Foods in Umatilla County. The case count includes all persons linked to the outbreak, which may include household members and other close contacts to an employee. The outbreak investigation started on June 26, but the initial case count was below the threshold for public disclosure.

An outbreak of 102 cases has been reported at Snake River Correctional Institution in Malheur County. The case count includes all Oregon residents linked to the outbreak, which may include household members and other close contacts to an employee. The case count does not include any Idaho residents who may be associated with the outbreak, as laboratories report positive tests results to the state in which an individual resides. OHA is working closely with Idaho to coordinate contact tracing across state lines.

The outbreak investigation started on June 24, but at that time the case count was below the threshold for public disclosure. The outbreak was reported in the COVID-19 Weekly Report on July 8 with six cases.

State and county public health officials are working with these organizations to address these outbreaks and protect the health of workers.

OHA releases Weekly Testing Summary

Today OHA released its Weekly Testing Summary, which showed that 28,314 tests were performed from July 6-12, with 5.8% of those tests coming back positive.

Overall testing capacity is estimated to be 41,000 weekly tests as of the most recent data available. Meanwhile, OHA has received information that testing supply allocations from several major manufacturers to Oregon State Public Health Laboratory (OSPHL) and clinical labs in Oregon are being, or may be, reduced due to increasing national demand. OHA and OSPHL are working collaboratively with in-state laboratories to help manage supply chain issues. And OHA continues to explore opportunities to expand collection and testing services.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

BEND, OR  -- The state of Oregon is distributing 130,000 face coverings to Deschutes County. The OHA recommends children ages two to twelve to still wear a face mask even though the law does not require that age group to do so. People with a medical condition that makes it hard to breathe can request accommodations to have access to facilities as well. Morgan Emerson at Deschutes Public health says the masks are disposable and reusable if clean. She does not recommend washing them.

A portion of the Suttle Lake Loop Trail will be closed between Suttle Lake Lodge and Blue Bay Campground. Jaime Olle with Deschutes National Forest says the closure is expected to be about a week. The closures are part of the Suttle Lake Vegetation Management Project. The project provides treatment and removal of dangerous and dying trees along the roads and campgrounds. Travelers should expect a temporary ten minute delay when entering the area. During this time, the Suttle Lake Tie Trail that connects from Suttle Lake to the base of Black Butte will be closed briefly as well.

CENTRAL OREGON -- The Oregon Department of Agriculture is warning Central Oregonians who have domestic pigs that a female feral pig tested positive for Pseudorabies, known as PRV. Ryan Sholz is a veterinarian with the Department of Ag. He says keep domestic pigs fenced and don’t allow them to mingle with feral pigs. Scholz says so far, there has been no exposure of PRV to Oregon livestock. Landowners and managers are required to notify the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife within 10 days of becoming aware of feral pigs on their property.

CENTRAL OREGON -- It’s that time of year when state and federal land management agencies begin restrictions designed to prevent wild fires. The U-S Forest Service and the BLM in Central Oregon are moving to Industrial Fire Protection Level 2 tomorrow, Tuesday. Kassidy Kern at the Deschutes National Forest says it’s due to warm, dry weather. She says last week’s Finley and Paulina Lake fires are believed human-caused. Kern says firewood cutters can only use saws from 8pm to 1pm. She says make sure there are spark arrestors on all motorized equipment. Kern also reminds everyone not to park on dry vegetation because the underside of cars and recreation vehicles can get hot enough to ignite fires.

BEND, OREGON -- The last Deschutes County Commissioners meeting was held to discuss the details about the Urban Renewal Project. Commissioner Tony Debone expressed his views on the current tax increment finance plan with KBND and stated that he’s worried about the huge state budget deficit. While property values in many parts of the country are declining, residential and commercial property values in Central Oregon remain strong. DeBone says he’s not opposed to the Urban Renewal Project, but he’d like to see it be a smaller ask. He feels that thirty years from now, people question what we were thinking. The county budget was decreased earlier this year deliberately in preparation for the possibility of a recession due to COVID. DeBone says that people want to move and be in rural areas more so now since the pandemic started. He hopes that Central Oregon can continue to work together and stay organized to keep our economy thriving.

Oregon reports 275 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 2 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed two more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 232, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 275 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 11,454.

The new cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (1), Benton (6), Clackamas (11), Crook (1), Deschutes (8), Douglas (2), Hood River (4), Jackson (9), Jefferson (15), Josephine (2), Lane (10), Linn (3), Malheur (21), Marion (28), Morrow (3), Multnomah (37), Polk (3), Tillamook (1), Umatilla (51), Union (1), Wallowa (1), Wasco (5), Washington (44), Yamhill (8).

Oregon’s 231^st COVID-19 death is a 62-year-old man in Union County who tested positive on June 16 and died on July 2, at Saint Regional Medical Center in Boise. He had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 232^nd COVID-19 death is a 99-year-old woman in Lincoln County who tested positive on June 26 and died on July 9. Location of death is being confirmed. She had underlying medical conditions.

Note: More details are available about Oregon’s 229^th COVID-19 death. She is a 78-year-old female in Clackamas County who died on June 18 at her residence. The death certificate listed COVID-19 disease, or SARS-CoV-2, as a cause of death or as a significant condition that contributed to her death. No confirmatory testing for COVID-19 was performed, but this aligns with the CSTE probable case definition for a presumptive case, which OHA follows.

Social gatherings are increasing spread

Since Oregon began reopening, we have seen spread of COVID-19 when people get together to celebrate with family and friends. Some examples include:

• Graduations
• Birthdays
• Weddings
• Holidays

COVID-19 is spreading more among social activities involving groups of younger people. OHA has recorded outbreaks linked to:

• Exercise classes
• Fraternity party
• Bachelor party

While it is difficult not to celebrate these events as we have in the past, COVID-19 is spreading in our communities and people must think hard about altering daily routines that may put people at risk.

OHA recommends that everyone:

• Limit the size of our gatherings
• Keep our distance
• Cover our faces
• Find alternative ways for those who are vulnerable to participate.

Modeling shows potentially steep upward trend

The newest modeling shows the continuation of a concerning trend of rapidly spreading COVID-19 throughout Oregon. Cases are rising at a rate so high, that even a 10 percent reduction in cases would not slow the rise in cases.

The bottom line is that the disease is spreading more rapidly than expected and that since reopening, Oregonians have not consistently modeled the behavior needed to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Three modeling scenarios all show rising cases.

• The first scenario assumes transmission rates stay the same as they are now, with daily infections tripling over the next month and a similar increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations over the next 30 days.
• The second scenario assumes a 10-percentage point decrease over the 30 days, slowing the growth of infection and cutting hospitalizations in half.
• The third and final scenario assumes a 10-percentage point increase continuing over the next 30 days with a dramatic increase in daily cases and a sharp increase in hospitalizations.

In any scenario Oregonians must do more to flatten the curve of COVID-19 by taking the recommendations of health authorities. Limit the size of gatherings; maintain six feet of physical distance between people; wear a face masks; practice good hand hygiene and stay home if you are sick.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

bend, or Deschutes County Public Health Director Nahad Sadr-Azodi participated in the virtual news conference held by the mayors of Bend and Redmond yesterday. He said recent COVID-19 cases have been spread by local people traveling out of the area and coming back infected and by tourists who come here infected and spread the virus. Sadr-Azodi says recent virus cases have also been spread by multiple family gatherings on recent holidays He says it’s important to wear a mask, wash hands and watch distancing. Sadr-Azodi says an important factor in helping to slow the spread of COVID-19 is testing, which he says has been expanding in recent weeks.
 

The Mayors of Bend and Redmond held another virtual news conference yesterday. Mayor George Endicott says there’s COVID-19 grant money available from the state. He says 150-thousand dollars is available to small businesses and nonprofits with fewer than 25 employees. Bend Mayor Sally Russell says they’ve been working to get state COVID-19 grant funding as well. She says 185-thousand dollars is available to businesses inside the Bend city limits and another 40 thousand is available for small businesses in unincorporated areas near Bend. Businesses and nonprofits who have not received any other CARES Act funding can apply, starting today. Log onto the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council webpage for an application.

The Central Oregon Irrigation District Modernization Project has won federal approval. Managing Director Craig Horrell says they will convert 8-miles of open ditch on Pilot Butte canal to an underground closed-pipe system. He says this means more water will be delivered to patrons more efficiently while leaving more water in the Deschutes River. Horrell says the district will receive 25-million federal dollars for the project and the district must put up a 25-per cent match. The construction begins in October

Central Oregon sees its first death from Coronavirus.  The Oregon Health Authority reports a 63-year-old Crook County woman was among 6 people who died in Oregon from the COVID-19 virus. The woman had no underlying medical conditions. She died several days after close contact with a confirmed virus case. The state death toll is now 230. The OHA reports 3 new virus cases in Crook county, 5 in Deschutes county and 8 in Jefferson county. The report says there were a record 389 new confirmed and presumptive cases of the virus for a state total of 11-thousand-188

Oregon reports 389 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 6 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed six more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 230, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 389 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 11,188.

The new cases are in the following counties: Benton (1), Clackamas (20), Clatsop (1), Columbia (2), Coos (4), Crook (3), Deschutes (5), Hood River (1), Jackson (7), Jefferson (8), Josephine (2), Lake (2), Lane (18), Lincoln (15), Linn (3), Malheur (31), Marion (47), Morrow (12), Multnomah (86), Polk (2), Umatilla (55), Union (4), Wallowa (1), Wasco (5), Washington (46), Yamhill (8).

Today’s case count is the highest total daily case count since the onset of the pandemic. The recent increase in cases is attributed to workplace outbreaks and community spread. Newly diagnosed cases are being interviewed now.

Oregon’s 225^th COVID-19 death is a 63-year-old woman in Crook County who became symptomatic on July 1 after close contact with a confirmed case and died on July 8, at her residence. She had no underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 226^th COVID-19 death is an 83-year-old man in Umatilla County who tested positive on July 4 and died on July 3. The place of death is being confirmed. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 227^th COVID-19 death is a 71-year-old man in Marion County who tested positive on June 26 and died on July 7, at his residence. He had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 228^th COVID-19 death is a 75-year-old woman in Clackamas County who tested positive on June 10 and died on July 2 at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. She had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 229^th COVID-19 death is a 78-year-old woman in Clackamas County who died on June 18 at her residence. More details are pending.

Oregon’s 230^th COVID-19 death is a 90-year-old man in Marion County who tested positive on May 9 and died on June 1, at his home. He had underlying conditions.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

The Deschutes County Solid Waste Department is holding special one-day collection events in Redmond, La Pine and Sisters. Residents can drop off household hazardous waste for free. Things like pool and spa chemicals, paint, cleaning solutions, motor oil, batteries, and fluorescent bulbs. Chad Centola at County Solid Waste urges everyone to wear a mask at the collection events. He says don’t bring medical waste, explosives, fireworks, compressed gas cylinders or business-generated hazardous waste. The free hazardous waste disposal event begins this Saturday, July 11^th at the Deschutes County Fair and Expo in Redmond from 9am to 1pm. Next up will be La Pine on July 18^th and Sisters on the first of August.

BEND, OR -- The Deschutes County Commissioners have awarded Knife River – Northwest the contract to build a roundabout at the Old Bend Redmond Highway/Tumalo Road Intersection. County Engineer Cody Smith says the intersection is not safe. He says between 2010 and 2018 there were 32 wrecks at the site with 22 being injury accidents. Knife River submitted the low bid of 1-million-156-thousand-715 dollars. Work on the roundabout begins in August and is to be finished by the end of this year.  

BEND, OR -- Deschutes County Commissioners heard an update on the COVID-19 pandemic yesterday. Public Health Director Nahad Sadr-Azodi says virus cases in Deschutes county have doubled in the past two weeks. He says of 221 cases, 173 have recovered. He says this week is critical because it will show if what we did two to four weeks ago is affecting the number of virus cases. Sadr-Azodi told commissioners the month of May was an anomaly, as people 30 and younger were getting the virus. He says since that time, the virus has shifted back towards the older generations.   

REDMOND, OR -- Redmond Police and Redmond Fire and Rescue are calling a woman who saved the life of a 2-year-old boy a hero. Bailey Vardanega of Terrebonne was headed home Tuesday when she stopped because a man was stopping traffic on Highway 97. The man was the father of a 2 year old who got out of his Grandmas house and was running across Highway 97. Vardanega says the boy ran off the highway and headed for a fence, went through the fence, and went into a canal. She says she ran, spotted him in the water then dove in, grabbed the boy, and got him out. Vardanega has two children of her own. The toddler is okay and was returned to his father.

Oregon reports 217 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 4 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed four more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 224, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 217 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 10,817.

The new cases are in the following counties: Baker (3), Clackamas (19), Clatsop (1), Columbia (1), Coos (2), Curry (1), Deschutes (3), Douglas (2), Harney (1), Hood River (1), Jackson (5), Jefferson (1), Josephine (2), Lane (10), Lincoln (3), Linn (8), Malheur (12), Marion (15), Morrow (10), Multnomah (30), Umatilla (43), Union (3), Wasco (1), Washington (31), Yamhill (9).

Oregon’s 221^st COVID-19 death is an 85-year-old woman in Benton County who tested positive on May 31 and died on June 28, at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 222^nd COVID-19 death is a 55-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on June 22 and died on June 28, at his residence. He had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 223^rd COVID-19 death is a 91-year-old woman in Marion County who tested positive on June 18 and died on July 5, at her residence. She had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 224^th COVID-19 death is a 36-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on June 3 and died on July 7, at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. He had underlying medical conditions.

Weekly Report released

Today, OHA released its Weekly Report which showed that during the week of June 29 to July 5, 32,355 persons were tested for COVID-19 in Oregon with 5 percent recording a positive result.

COVID 19 continued to surge during that week with 1,910 new cases an increase of 51 percent over the previous week. In addition, 11 Oregonians were reported to have died, one fewer than the previous week.

OHA to host media call

OHA Director Patrick Allen will hold a weekly media availability at 11:15 a.m. Friday, July 10. To participate, media are invited to call 844-721-7239, access code 6939096.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

Wyden, Merkley: Warm Springs Housing Authority Will Receive $900,000 COVID-19 Grant

Federal resources to help rehabilitate housing units and make other safety improvements

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that the Warm Springs Housing Authority has secured a $900,000 federal grant to help with the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Tribes throughout Oregon are battling hard to weather COVID-19’s economic and public health fallout such as its impact on members’ essential need to keep a roof over their heads,” Wyden said. “I am gratified these housing resources are heading to the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, and will keep working on all the community’s priorities – including passage of the Western Tribal Water Infrastructure Act that would direct urgently needed federal funds to ensure safe drinking water.”

“As people stay home to flatten the coronavirus curve, access to safe housing has only become more essential—especially in our hardest-hit communities,” said Merkley. “Unfortunately, despite the fact that tribal communities are bearing the brunt of this pandemic, the federal government is not doing enough to provide them with critical resources and support. While I’m pleased that this grant funding will help the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs support their members by upgrading housing and reducing overcrowding, I know far more needs to be done. I’m committed to fighting for all the resources tribal communities deserve to help them get through this public health emergency.”

The $900,000 Indian Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG) Imminent Threat award is part of the funding allocated by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that Congress passed in March.

The federal resources will be used to rehabilitate six units for quarantine purposes and overcrowding reduction, as well as make improvements to the Warm Springs Housing Authority's Office building so employees and customers can safely conduct business and reduce person-to-person contact.

“These funds come at a critical time as the Warm Springs people continue to battle with COVID-19 on our Reservation,” said Raymond Tsumpti, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.

CENTRAL OREGON -- Fire Season is in full swing. Lisa Clark at Prineville BLM says they have responded to about 100 fires; all were human-caused and 70% of those were abandoned fires. Clark asks that the public use caution when outdoors for your own safety and for the safety of first responders. Emergency personnel are maintaining health standards when responding to fires by limiting the number of people in emergency vehicles. Clark also warns the public to not smoke or park on or near dry grass, as this is a potential fire hazard. For more info, check out Project Wildfire online.

BEND, OR -- Saint Charles Health System has started posting COVID-19 inpatient data every Monday to Friday on their website. Lisa Goodman at the hospital says they’ll list the number of COVID-19 patients hospitalized, the number of patients in I-C-U, and the number of patients on ventilators. Goodman says the number of patients in I-C-U have fluctuated over time showing a recent increase as virus case numbers have increased.  Goodman says the number of patients on ventilators tends to correlate with patients in I-C-U.  She urges everyone to wear a mask and social distance. 

REDMOND, OR -- We reported yesterday that sheriff’s deputies went to a home in Southwest Redmond Monday morning after a relative reported being unable to make contact with an adult woman. Deschutes County Sheriff’s Lieutenant William Bailey says police went to the home of 54-year-old Nicole Jakubek where she was found dead. He says a suspect is in custody outside of Deschutes county on unrelated charges. 61 year old Clinton Kevin Holland is charged with 2nd Degree Murder. He was already in custody in Hood River aftger being arrested Monday for DUII. Police say Holland was driving Jakubek's car at the time of arrest.   

Oregon reports 219 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 5 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed five more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 220, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 218 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 10,604.

The new cases are in the following counties: Benton (2), Clackamas (18), Columbia (2), Coos (4), Crook (1), Douglas (3), Hood River (3), Jefferson (2), Josephine (3), Klamath (1), Lake (1), Lane (16), Lincoln (1), Linn (1), Malheur (7), Marion (23), Morrow (2), Multnomah (52), Polk (6), Umatilla (20), Union (5), Wallowa (1), Wasco (2), Washington (27), Yamhill (16).

Oregon’s 216^th COVID-19 death is a 93-year-old man in Multnomah County who tested positive on June 25 and died on June 30, at Providence Portland Medical Center. He had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 217^th COVID-19 death is a 74-year-old woman in Yamhill County who tested positive on June 23 and died on June 30, at Willamette Valley Medical Center. She had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 218^th COVID-19 death is a 56-year-old woman in Linn County who tested positive on May 27 and died on July 5, at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center. She had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 219^th COVID-19 death is an 80-year-old man in Marion County who tested positive on June 14 and died on July 6, at his residence. He had underlying medical conditions.

Oregon’s 220^th COVID-19 death is a 62-year-old woman in Marion County who tested positive on June 10 and died on July 6, at Salem Hospital. She had underlying medical conditions.

OHA investigating workplace outbreak

An outbreak of 22 cases of COVID-19 has been reported at Columbia River Processing in Morrow County. The cases include all persons linked to the outbreak, which may include household members and other close contacts to an employee. The outbreak investigation started on June 16, but the initial case count was below the threshold for public disclosure.

State and county public health officials are working with the business to address the outbreak and protect the health of the employees.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

On Monday, July 6, 2020 at approximately 7:50 P.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two vehicle crash on Hwy 97 near milepost 118.  Preliminary investigation revealed a Hyundai Accent, operated by Beauden Yetter (21) of Terrebonne, was southbound when it crossed into the northbound lane and collided with a Chevrolet Suburban operated by Surun Roth (57) of Stockton, CA. Roth and his passenger Mean Sok (68) of Stockton, CA. were transported to St. Charles with non-life threatening injuries. Yetter sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.  

OSP was assisted by the Redmond Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, Redmond Fire/Rescue and ODOT.  

BEND, OR -- The Monday morning report from the Oregon Health Authority shows two more COVID-19 cases in Deschutes county and one more in Jefferson county. Deschutes County Commissioner Patti Adair says as a county, we are improving. She noted that Deschutes is now 9^th highest in the state while Lane county moved ahead to 8^th place. Adair says social distancing and wearing a mask at indoor public places is still very important. Between Friday and Sunday, Crook county recorded 2 new virus cases…Deschutes county recorded 28 cases and…Jefferson county 7 cases.

BEND , OR -- A fast-moving brush fire broke out Sunday afternoon in the area of Highway 20 East and Ten Barr Ranch Road. Deputy Fire Marshal Cindy Kettering says Bend fire crews headed to the scene, they called for back-up. She says those crews helped them get the fire under control quickly. Kettering says three properties on Ten Barr Ranch Road were affected by the fire including a camper that was occupied and parked there overnight. She says the occupants of the camper had thrown cigarette butts outside

REDMOND, OR -- Yesterday morning at about 10:30, deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff were dispatched to a residence in SW Redmond to perform a welfare check. A family member called about an adult woman they were unable to contact. Deputies arrived and found a woman dead in the home. Detectives were called to the scene and are working with the State Police Crime Lab , Medical Examiner and the D-A’s office on this investigation.

bend, or -- Deschutes County Commissioners have declared an emergency and imposed restrictions on unprotected land to help prevent wildfires. County Forester Ed Keith says the order applies to lands not part of a Rural Fire District or protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry. He says restrictions include no open fires except in designated areas. Keith also says between 1-and-8pm every day, no chainsaw use…no cutting, grinding or welding of metal…and no lawn mowing. He says all fireworks, sky lanterns and exploding targets or tracer ammunition are all prohibited.

BEND, OR -- Bend City Manager Eric King has declared a Stage 1 water curtailment alert. The alert follows the governor’s drought declaration last week for Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties. The city of Bend has year-round water regulations, including watering on odd or even days, depending on your address…not allowing water runoff from the landscape and…no watering 9am to 5pm. For more information log onto water-wise-tips-DOT-org.

Oregon reports 168 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 0 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — The state’s death toll from COVID-19 is unchanged from yesterday and remains at 215, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 168 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 10,395. The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Benton (1), Clackamas (16), Clatsop (3), Columbia (3), Deschutes (2), Douglas (1), Hood River (1), Jackson (1), Jefferson (1), Josephine (3), Lane (10), Malheur (10), Marion (16), Morrow (4), Multnomah (41), Polk (1), Tillamook (1), Umatilla (16), Wasco (3), Washington (34).

OHA Releases Weekly Testing Summary

OHA released its Weekly Testing Summary today, which showed that for the week of 6/28-7/5, 39,914 tests were conducted. Of those tests 5.3 percent were positive. Oregon’s number of tests performed has been steadily increasing, but the number of positive cases and the test positivity rate have increased significantly since late May. This suggests increasing numbers of individuals with COVID-19, which is expected now that all counties are in Phase 1 or Phase 2 of reopening. Recent large outbreaks around the state have also contributed to these increases.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

SALEM, Ore – Fire season will officially be in effect on all Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) protected lands Monday, July 6. The North Cascade and West Oregon protection districts are the last two to declare fire season. ODF’s Southwest Oregon District was the first to declare fire season May 1.

Fire season is declared based on conditions at the local district level, with restrictions intended to help prevent human-caused wildfires. Fire season generally runs through mid-October and ends based on local conditions.

For residents within ODF’s 12 fire protection districts, the arrival of fire season means the end of unregulated outdoor debris burning, a leading cause of wildfires. While permits to burn may be issued in some areas, debris burning is generally prohibited throughout the summer due to increased wildfire risk. Violators burning without a permit will be cited and held liable for fire suppression costs.

Other public use fire restrictions are also in effect in several areas. The use of fireworks, tracer ammunition and exploding targets are illegal within ODF protection boundaries, as well as other state and federal lands. Campfires, the mowing of dry, cured grass, cutting and welding, power saw use and other spark-emitting activities are regulated at the local level, depending upon the conditions and fire danger. For example, during low fire danger, mowing may be allowed all day. However, during moderate, high and extreme fire danger mowing may be restricted to early morning or prohibited entirely until conditions improve.

ODF encourages the public to stay informed of current fire restrictions by visiting the agency’s Fire Restrictions & Closures website or calling their local ODF or protective association office. To learn more about preventing human-caused wildfires, visit Keep Oregon Green on the web at www.keeporegongreen.org.  

Forest operators are required to follow fire season requirements, including providing a water supply, fire tools, spark arresters on equipment, and fire watch. Similar to fire danger restrictions for the public, operators must follow rules under the four-tiered Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) system.  

ODF protects over 16 million acres of private, county, state and federal land.

BEND, OR -- The City Club of Central Oregon held a livestream discussion last week about Racial Injustice. One of the questions was: what do you say to people who say All Lives Matter. Panel member Rob Garrott (guh-rot) said if and when people understand how the country was built, they understand that until Black Lives Matter all lives don’t actually matter. Panel member Marcus LeGrand agreed saying until Black Lives Matter all lives don’t. Bend Police Chief Jim Porter says he’s had discussions with people who tell him, All Lives Matter. He tells them he’ll believe that when three Black officers are on a videotape with their knee on the neck of a white person saying he can’t breathe. Porter says show me that video…cause it ain’t happening.

La Pine, OR -- We reported last week that La Pine had cancelled Frontier Days but they did go ahead with their fireworks show. The President of Frontier Days. Ann Gawith (gay-with) says they plan to hold the cancelled events on Labor Day weekend. She says they’ll have the lawnmower races, woodcutter’s jamboree with vendors and music on Labor Day weekend. She says on Friday September 4^th they will honor the 2020 high school graduates during the day and have a “Family Prom” that evening.

La Pine, OR  -- A wildfire near LaPine on the east side of Highway 97, north of Forest Road 21 was reported about 1 o'clock yesterday afternoon. The Paulina Lake fire grew quickly in timber and brush.  Firefighters, assisted by air tankers, were able to contain the fire by early evening. As of last night the fire was at 48 acres and the cause is still under investigation. The public is reminded to be careful with any ignitions on public lands. Central Oregon is currently in HIGH fire danger, meaning fuels are very receptive to ignitions. If you are recreating on public lands, remember to remain diligent about ensuring all campfires are ‘dead out’ and cold to the touch when you leave them, all spark arrestors are properly installed, and trailer chains are secured.

City of Bend selects Michael Krantz as next Police Chief

The City of Bend has selected Portland Police Bureau Assistant Chief Michael Krantz as Bend’s next Police Chief. Krantz will serve the 115-year-old Bend Police Department in the position previously held by Chief Jim Porter, who retires today. He will begin his service in Bend on August 10, 2020.

“Mike has a reputation for being a creative, collaborative and innovative leader in public safety,” said City Manager Eric King. “He has a unique ability to translate what he learns from his peers and community partnerships into meaningful policy reform. That ability, paired with his recent work in diversity and equity, will provide strong leadership as our department continues working with our community to address concerns about the relationship between race and public safety.”

Krantz is a 27-year veteran of the Portland Police Bureau. He currently serves as the bureau’s Assistant Chief of the Services Branch and is responsible for the business operations of the largest police department in the State of Oregon. As a captain in Portland, he built the bureau’s Office of Community Engagement to support the development of ongoing relationships and trust with the greater Portland community. Krantz also managed the development and implementation of the bureau’s Racial Equity Plan, focused on addressing the root causes of inequities within the bureau and with community access to the bureau. Additionally, he has served in strategic services, criminal intelligence, rapid response and training capacities, exhibiting a well-rounded set of skills and experience.

Krantz holds a bachelor’s degree in public policy and administration from Western Oregon University, is a graduate from the Police Executive Research Forum Senior Management Institute for Police, and holds an executive certificate from the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training. 

“I am excited to build on the strong foundational relationships that the Bend Police Department has developed with the community and ensure the department continues to be on the leading edge of public safety,” said Krantz. “I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with an incredible group of people that have proven over and over again their unwavering commitment to serve and protect their community.”

Chief Porter retires from his role as Police Chief after more than 29 years of service to the Bend community.

From Deschutes County Sheriff 

Released by: Lt. William Bailey - Public Information Officer

Release date: July 2, 2020

:Central Oregon law enforcement agencies have received questions about what our roles are in enforcing the Governor’s Order to wear face coverings inside public buildings.

It has always been our goal to help community members understand the health and safety guidelines that have been put into place across Oregon. Our philosophy of enforcing this and other Orders will continue to be education and to seek voluntary compliance.  As the Governor has stated, the expectation is that OSHA Oregon will take the lead in enforcing her facemask requirement.

Law Enforcement will respond to and investigate all calls for service from business owners who report disputes or disturbances related to the facemask requirement, and then take the appropriate enforcement action if necessary.  Unless the call requires a law enforcement response, call OSHA at the toll-free number: 800-922-2689.

## End of Release ##

Oregon reports 375 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 1 new death

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed one more life in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 209, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 375 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 9,294.

The new cases reported today are in the following counties: Clackamas (22), Columbia (1), Crook (1), Deschutes (9), Douglas (2), Jackson (15), Jefferson (8), Josephine (8), Lane (15), Lincoln (3), Linn (3), Malheur (16), Marion (32), Morrow (8), Multnomah (64), Tillamook (1), Umatilla (88), Union (5), Wasco (2), Washington (67), and Yamhill (5).

Oregon’s 209^th COVID-19 death is 73-year-old woman in Klamath County who tested positive on June 20 and died on June 30. Her place of death s being confirmed. She had underlying medical conditions.

Today’s case count is Oregon’s largest single day total since the beginning of the pandemic, following the previous largest on Wednesday.

Oregon has experienced five weeks of case growth and cases are rising faster in our rural communities and in central and eastern Oregon. The largest county case count today was in Umatilla County with 88 new cases attributed to outbreaks and community spread.

Earlier this week, Governor Kate Brown ordered face coverings to be worn in all indoor public places throughout the state. Masks and face coverings, along with maintaining 6-feet of distancing between people has been shown to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Note: Dr. Paul Cieslak will hold OHA’s regular weekly media briefing today at 3 p.m. To participate the media is invited to call 844-291-6358, participant code 2584655.

Slight data change to Public Health Indicators Dashboard

Due to technical issues in processing negative COVID-19 tests this week, many negative tests reported on June 25, were processed on later days, causing a spike in the percent positivity metric for that day on the Public Health Indicators Dashboard.  

This week's trends in positive tests percentages should be interpreted with increased caution. To present more accurate information, the total percent over the last seven days is provided in parentheses.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

                                                 2020 Fireworks on Pilot Butte (Bend Oregon)

                                                 Limited Access to Pilot Butte 7/3 through 7/5

This year’s 4th of July Pilot Butte public fireworks display will commence at approximately 10pm on Saturday, July 4th, 2020.  In preparation, the Oregon State Parks Department and Bend Fire Department ask that the community observe the following restrictions to Pilot Butte State Park from July 3rd through July 5th.

• The access road to the summit will be closed to all vehicle traffic.    
• All the trails and roadways will be accessible to pedestrians only through 10:00 pm on July 3rd with the exception of the summit, which will be closed to all but authorized personnel and equipment.
• Access to ALL trails and roadways (top to bottom) on Pilot Butte will be closed on July 4th and the morning of July 5th. No access will be permitted with security and law enforcement on site to enforce restrictions.
• Signs and fences will be placed at the closure points on the Butte. Please respect the closed areas and do not attempt entry, for your own safety and the safety of those working to set up the fireworks display. Visitors will NOT be allowed into the closed areas at any time.
• The main parking area at the base of Pilot Butte, off Linnea Drive, will be CLOSED this year during the fireworks show. Do not block any emergency access roads or public/private streets, as this can delay a response to an emergency.
• Pilot Butte will re-open for all pedestrian visitors the afternoon of July 5th after all fireworks and equipment have been secured and removed from the site.
• Oregon State Parks and Bend Fire Department remind everyone celebrating the fireworks this year to maintain their social distance and wear masks whenever possible. We want to have a great 4th of July and fireworks show and keep everyone safe and healthy.   

The fireworks are presented each year as a gift to the community from Bend New Car Dealers Association. Thanks also to the local Scout troops that help clean up the fireworks each year after the show. A huge thank you to the local fire crews from the US Forest Service and Oregon Department of Forestry for assisting with the fire safety on the butte during the show. Without their support each year this show would not be possible.

CENTRAL OREGON -- MidOregon Credit Union announces their online banking app as a new frontline defense against account hackers. Kyle Frick says features on the new app are the reason why. The features include being able to compare numerous accounts on the app at a time and being able to take a picture of their check to deposit it. The picture and amount is posted in their account the next day which saves you a trip to the credit union and having to wait in line. Frick says they’re seeing impressive consumer behavior despite the pandemic. They continue to see strong growth in both loans and the opening of new accounts.

LA PINE -- Big changes this year for the La Pine 4^th of July celebration. Ann Gawith, President of the La Pine Frontier Days Association says the 4-day 4^th of July Celebration is cancelled. She says the fireworks show, which they are calling “Blast The Virus” will start Saturday night at 10 o’clock and will be at the same place it’s been for 22 years. Gawith says the fireworks show is visible from many areas along Highway 97. She says there are also places to park in La Pine at parking lots of closed businesses including the South County Services Building.

BEND, OR -- Directors of Chambers of Commerce from throughout Oregon had a conference call Tuesday night with Governor Kate Brown. Bend Chamber Director Katy Brooks says the conversation was about big jumps in COVID-19 cases, statewide. She says the governor could order a return to Phase One if COVID-19 continues to spike. She says even worse, if things get bad enough it could lead to another Stay At Home order. Brooks says if Central Oregon goes back to Phase One it means the re-closing of a lot of businesses and layoffs for many people who just got back to work. Brooks urges everyone to wear a mask when going to indoor public places and to social distance whenever possible. 

BEND, OR -- The City Club of Central Oregon is conducting a free livestream from Noon to 1-this afternoon, July 2^nd on the topic of Racial Injustice. The event will feature Erika McAlpine and Zak Boone, co-chairs of the City Club’s Civility Project. They will facilitate a conversation with Marcus La Grand and Rob Garrott (guh-rot) about their personal experiences as Black men living in Central Oregon. The conversation will include Bend Police Chief Jim Porter. He will outline what his department is doing to ensure encounters with Black and Indigenous People of Color are safe. The livestream is available on the city club web page.

Oregon reports 281 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 1 new death

PORTLAND, Ore. — COVID-19 has claimed one more life in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 208, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 281 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 8,931. It is the highest daily case count since the beginning of the pandemic.

The new cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (3), Benton (2), Clackamas (20), Clatsop (1), Columbia (1), Deschutes (4), Douglas (2), Jackson (3), Jefferson (7), Klamath (4), Lake (2), Lane (12), Lincoln (12), Linn (7), Malheur (16), Marion (27), Morrow (2), Multnomah (38), Polk (8), Tillamook (2), Umatilla (42), Union (5), Wallowa (2), Wasco (4), Washington (48), and Yamhill (7).

Oregon’s 208^th COVID-19 death is a 91-year-old woman in Marion County who tested positive on June 18 and died on June 29. Her place of death is being confirmed. She had underlying medical conditions.

More information is available about Oregon’s 192^nd death, which was initially reported June 22. Oregon’s 192^nd death is a 90-year-old woman in Marion County who tested positive on June 18 and died on June 21, in her residence. She had underlying medical conditions.

OHA to report outbreaks in child care facilities

Starting today, the COVID-19 Weekly Report will include names and case counts for child care facilities that enroll 30 or more children and have five or more cases. The Weekly Report also will include the total number of facilities statewide—no matter how many children they enroll—that have five or more cases.

Today’s Weekly Report covers data from June 22-28. In the report, most indicators point to a resurgence in COVID-19 transmission. OHA recorded 1,402 new cases of COVID-19 infection, an 11 percent increase from the previous week (1,263 new cases). In addition, 12 Oregonians were reported to have died, the same number as the preceding week.

The number of COVID-19 tests reported (28,359) decreased by 11 percent and the percentage of tests positive increased to 4.2 percent from 3.7 percent in the preceding week. Meanwhile, large outbreaks have contributed a diminishing proportion of recent cases, and sporadic cases have increased consistent with diffuse community spread.

Lastly, the report notes that about 75 percent of recent cases have been diagnosed in people younger than 50 years old. Since hospitalization is less common among younger people with COVID-19 infection, statewide hospital capacity remains sufficient for now.

Stay informed about COVID-19:

Oregon response: The Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Office of Emergency Management lead the state response.

United States response: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention leads the U.S. response.

Global response: The World Health Organization guides the global response.

New dates for Luke Bryan shows! 
We’ve officially got new dates for our two Luke Bryan shows!
We’ll see you September 30 and October 1, 2021 at the Les Schwab Amphitheater.
Morgan Wallen and Runaway June are set to open both nights

If you had tickets to the Thursday show in 2020, you've got tickets to the Thursday show in 2021. Likewise, if you had tickets to the Friday show in 2020, you've got tickets to the Friday show in 2021.

If you can't make the new dates, you have until July 25 to request a refund.
If you paid cash and would like a refund for your tickets, please call the Ticket Mill at 541-318-5457 to arrange to collect your refund.

If you purchased tickets online through Etix, call them at 1-919-653-0443 or 1-800-514-3849 to arrange a refund.

There could be more neighborhood fireworks than usual this year, because most of the big commercial shows have been canceled. Tonya Roberts, with the Oregon Humane Society, says you need to be especially careful with your pet. Roberts says keep them leashed and have collars with name tags, in the event they get out and run. She says on the evening of the fourth, when fireworks will be at their peak, you can put your pet in a dark room and turn on the tv or radio to help drown out the sound.

BEND, OR -- The east side parking lot at Pilot Butte State Park will not be open the 4^th of July. Park Manager Joe Wanamaker says the fireworks show is from the top of the butte and is visible from a long distance. He says they’re asking people not to park in nearby neighborhoods either because parking is extremely limited. Wanamaker says people who walk to the park for the fireworks are asked to wear a mask where social distancing may not be possible. He says no large gatherings outside of single-family groups.

PRINEVILLE, OR -- Jasper Point and Powder House Cove boat ramps at Prineville Reservoir State Park are closed. Park Manager Mike Simonsen says the closures are due to drought conditions. The Roberts Bay area, including boat ramp, remains closed due to reduced staffing and resources related to COVID. The drought conditions have also prompted a partial fire ban at the park.In addition cabins  are not being rented at the park due to COVID-19.

BEND, OR -- The  newest member of the L-C-D-C, the Land Conservation And Development Commission is Nick Lelak. He has served as Deschutes County Community  Development Director the past 8 years. Lelak says immediate priorities for the agency include increasing the housing supply to handle expected population growth in Oregon. The L-C-D-C is also tasked with managing and ordering the growth of cities to prevent urban sprawl….while at the same time protecting prime farm and timberlands from development.