An Oregon State Police (OSP) drug detection canine is improving after being seriously injured Thursday afternoon when the dog was struck by a vehicle on Highway 97 about fourteen miles south of Bend.

On November 20, 2008, Lola, a 2-year old female yellow Labrador, was accompanying her handler, Senior Trooper Jason Hansen, on patrol at approximately 5:00 p.m. when they pulled onto a forest service road about 100 yards off Highway 97 near milepost 147 for a break. After Lola was let out of the vehicle, she started running east into the woods and her handler lost sight of her.

After searching for about 20 minutes, Senior Trooper Hansen requested additional help to find Lola through the OSP Northern Command Center dispatch. At that time he was notified Deschutes County Sheriff's Office was responding to a report of a dog struck on Highway 97 in the area.

Senior Trooper Hansen responded to the scene where he found Lola injured after she was struck in the northbound lanes of Highway 97 by a 2007 Subaru Outback. The car's driver, a 47-year old Bend man, provided Lola with initial help until officers arrived.

Senior Trooper Hansen transported Lola to a Bend area veterinary clinic for treatment. An initial medical examination revealed Lola suffered a collapsed lung, internal injuries and contusions. This morning's update indicates Lola is improving and stable. She is remaining at the veterinary clinic for more observation and medical assessment.

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office investigated the highway incident.

Lola has been teamed with Senior Trooper Hansen since early 2008 at the Oregon State Police Bend Area Command office. She is one of 7 OSP drug detection canines strategically placed with specially trained patrol troopers around the state.

A news release with a photograph of Lola is available on the Oregon State Police web site at http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/NEWSRL/news/03_06_2008_lola.shtml .

Information about the OSP drug detection canine program and photos of all seven dogs is available at http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/PATROL/canine_program.shtml .

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


Attached Media Files: Lola.5.JPG

(Note: Media requests for ride-alongs with OSP troopers should be directed to the local OSP office)

Unbuckled vehicle occupants, and speeding, fatigued and impaired drivers will again be the focus of increased enforcement efforts by police agencies in Oregon and around the country this Thanksgiving holiday extended weekend.

During the longest major holiday period of the year, the 102-hour holiday period starting Wednesday afternoon, November 26th, through Sunday, November 30th, 2008, Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers, county sheriff deputies, and city police officers are joining partner agencies and highway safety advocates with one common goal – reduce crashes, injuries and associated deaths on our highways and streets.

In the 31st year of the Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) program, many law enforcement agencies around the nation work together to deter the three leading causes of highway fatalities: speeding, impaired driving and failure to use occupant restraints. Operation C.A.R.E. was launched in 1977 by state troopers in Michigan and Indiana, and it grew quickly as a nationally multi-jurisdictional effort during major holiday periods.

"Many people still ignore or fail to recognize the dangers of speeding, fatigued and impaired driving, and not securing themselves and children in safety restraints," said Captain Gerry Gregg, director of the OSP Patrol Services Division. "Our troopers won't be sitting in the car to remind you to slow down, buckle up, and drive sober, but we will be watching for those who need to be reminded or removed off our highways. This is something that you, your family and friends, and many others traveling on our roads will be thankful for."

OSP offices have plans focused on problem areas and associated crash factors to help guide enforcement efforts. Some examples of local holiday tactical planning include:

* Willamette Valley area OSP troopers will increase enforcement presence on multiple area highways and Interstate 5. On Saturday, extra OSP personnel will work with local police agencies targeting highways into Corvallis to handle Civil War-related traffic and associated problems.
* OSP Klamath Falls troopers, Klamath County Sheriff's Office, Klamath Falls Police Department, and the Klamath County DUII Task Force will be conducting multi-agency DUII enforcement patrols Friday and Saturday. A similar multi-agency enforcement effort last year in this area reported 19 DUII arrests by OSP during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend period.
* OSP Coos Bay troopers focusing enforcement efforts on Highway 38 and Highway 42.
* OSP Roseburg troopers' enforcement efforts will be on Interstate 5 with heavy focus on Wednesday and Sunday travel days.
* OSP Bend troopers are focusing enforcement efforts on the Santiam Pass and Highway 97 where high speeds, aggressive drivers and potential weather problems pose significant traffic safety issues for travelers.
* OSP troopers working out of The Dalles will be targeting Interstate 84 construction zones between The Dalles and Cascade Locks. These locations have reduced traffic lanes where inattentive drivers were involved in recent traffic crashes because they failed to merge into the available single lane at a safe distance prior to entering the work zone.

According to ODOT's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) four people died last year in four separate single-vehicle fatal traffic crashes in Marion (two) and Washington counties, and in Portland. Two of the four fatalities involved an alcohol impaired driver. During the 2006 Thanksgiving holiday period eight people were killed in seven separate crashes, of which nearly half were not using safety restraints. Since 1970, there have been 227 traffic-related deaths on Oregon roads during the Thanksgiving holiday period.

"Each fatal crash during last year's holiday period happened when most people were safely tucked in their beds," said Captain Gregg. "Nighttime safety on our highways decreases for many reasons including reduced visibility, more tired and impaired drivers, and colder weather that may make roads slicker."

Last year during the Thanksgiving holiday period, OSP troopers arrested 61 DUII drivers, issued nearly 1,300 speed-related citations, responded to about 200 traffic crashes, and helped over 400 disabled motorists. OSP troopers did not investigate any fatal crashes on state freeways or secondary state highways.

While Oregon continues to be in the top three states nationally for safety restraint usage rates, too many children and adults still do not regularly buckle up said ODOT's Occupant Protection Program Manager, Carla Levinski, who stressed these important reminders:

* Child passengers must be restrained in approved child safety seats until they weigh forty pounds. Infants must ride in rear-facing seats until they reach both one year of age AND twenty pounds.
* Children over forty pounds must use boosters to 4'9" tall unless they have reached age eight.
* Even if your holiday dinner has made your safety belt less comfortable, please do not take it off until you are safely at your destination and ready to exit your vehicle.

Additional information regarding Oregon's occupant protection laws is available on ODOT's web site at http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/TS/safetybelts.shtml.

ODOT and OSP continue to stress the importance to prepare before you go, paying close attention to your travel routes while keeping up on unexpected weather and road conditions. Safety tips to follow during this holiday period include:

Getting Ready for the Trip

* Plan ahead to give yourself plenty of extra time to get to your destination.
* Stay informed through the media regarding weather conditions, potential traffic hazards and highway closures.
* Check road conditions by visiting www.TripCheck.com or calling 5-1-1.
* Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving starting with good tires, a good battery and full tank of gas, especially if heading over mountain passes.
* Carry an emergency kit and chains or traction tires, especially if traveling over mountain passes.
* Snacks and bottled water also are a good idea for long trips, especially with children.
* Carry a map in case weather or road conditions force you to take a detour. Keep family members or friends aware of any significant changes in your planned route before you take the unplanned route.
* Get plenty of rest before you leave on long trips.
* Clear snow, ice or frost from windows and headlights before you leave.
* Make sure everyone is using safety restraints and secure any cargo.
* Always have a designated driver for any holiday activities that include alcohol.

On the Road:

* Drive according to conditions. If it's wet, icy, snowy or foggy, slow down and increase your following distance behind other vehicles to at least a four-second distance. Keep in mind that conditions may not be perfect to drive at the posted speed.
* Use headlights even in daylight to help other drivers see you.
* Don't use cruise control in wet, icy, snowy or foggy conditions.
* Be patient with all the other traffic on the highways.
* Watch out for pedestrians now that the days are shorter and darker, and remember they're often in dark clothing.
* If you get tired or drowsy, stop and rest during your trip or get a rested and sober licensed driver behind the wheel.
* There are still many construction zones on our highways, and even though work will be inactive over the holiday weekend there may be equipment, detours, and incomplete changes in the roadway. Stay alert and slow down because all work zone speed limits still apply and fines increase in these areas.
* Don't drink and drive or get into a vehicle with a driver who has been drinking. Report any possible intoxicated driver or dangerous driver to the Oregon State Police at 1-800-24DRUNK (1-800-243-7865) or call 9-1-1.

(Photograph Images Courtesy of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)

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


Attached Media Files: ThanksgivCluck.jpeg , Pilgrimcar_thumb.jpeg , Grandma%27sHouse_thumb.jpeg

Oregon State Police, The Dalles Police Department and Wasco County Sheriff's Office are asking for the public's help to locate a wanted fugitive thought to be in the Columbia Gorge area after fleeing Saturday while being transported to a drug treatment center.

VICTOR BYRON SNELL, age 27, fled while being transported to an out-of-state court mandated drug treatment center on November 15th at approximately 8:10 a.m. SNELL fled on foot in the area of W. 7th and Snipes in The Dalles.

Until his release to attend treatment, SNELL had been incarcerated at the Northern Oregon Regional Corrections Center (NORCOR) in connection with several high speed attempts to elude police. During the last of these incidents, SNELL was apprehended by police after he hid in a private residence.

SNELL is described as a white male, approximately 5'11", 200 lbs, with blue eyes and a shaved head. He has numerous tattoos including a peace symbol on his left shoulder.

SNELL has a history of weapons violations, was found to be in possession of body armor during his last arrest, and is considered a flight risk.

Anyone who sees VICTOR BYRON SNELL is asked to immediately call 9-1-1 or Oregon State Police Northern Command Center dispatch at 800-452-7888. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts can also call Oregon State Police Detective Lori Rosebraugh at 541-296-9646.

Photograph Source: NORCOR

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


Attached Media Files: SNELL.JPG

Following a two-month investigation, two Irrigon-area men were arrested Thursday when a search warrant was served at their residence and 18 pounds of marijuana was discovered.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Sergeant Tom Spicknall, on November 13, 2008 members of the Blue Mountain Enforcement Narcotics Task Force and Morrow County Sheriff's Office served a search warrant at 1325 E. Idaho Avenue in Irrigon related to an investigation into the manufacturing, possession and delivery of marijuana. Officers located approximately 18 pounds of processed and packaged marijuana along with two illegally possessed handguns. The marijuana has an estimated value of $54,000.

Officers arrested WILLIAM HUSTON, age 68, and his son, JEFFERY HUSTON, age 44, at their Irrigon address. Both were charged with Unlawful Manufacture, Possession, and Delivery of a Controlled Substance. JEFFERY HUSTON was also charged with two counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. They were lodged at the Umatilla County Jail.

The Blue Mountain Enforcement Narcotics Task Force is comprised of detectives from the Morrow County Sheriffs Office, Pendleton Police Department, Milton Freewater Police Department, Hermiston Police Department, Umatilla County Sheriffs Office and the Oregon State Police. Detectives from the Mid Columbia Interagency Narcotics Team assisted.

No photographs available for release.

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

In what is believed to be the largest known ecstasy seizure during an Oregon traffic stop, Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers seized approximately 143 pounds of ecstasy Saturday afternoon from a vehicle on Interstate 5 south of Wilsonville. One person was arrested and OSP Drug Enforcement Section detectives are continuing the investigation.

On November 8, 2008 at approximately 12:05 p.m., OSP troopers stopped a 1996 Ford Thunderbird displaying Washington license plates for a traffic violation. The lone occupant of the car was identified as PEDRO MOYA GONZALEZ, age 55, from California. Subsequent investigation during the stop with the assistance of a Washington County Sheriff's Office drug detection canine led to the discovery of an estimated 250,000 ecstasy tablets concealed in the car's interior worth approximately $2 million.

Ecstasy is the street name for the drug MDMA.

MOYA GONZALEZ was taken into custody without incident and lodged in the Clackamas County Jail for Unlawful Possession and Distribution of a Controlled Substance.

Other past notable ecstasy seizures by OSP during traffic stops:

* On November 8, 2005 approximately 40 pounds of ecstasy was seized during a traffic stop southbound Interstate 5 south of Grants Pass.
* On February 28, 2005 approximately 6.5 pounds of ecstasy was seized during a traffic stop southbound Interstate 5 south of Salem.
* On January 31, 2007 approximately 2,000 ecstasy tablets and nearly $16,000 cash was seized during a traffic stop westbound Interstate 84 west of Pendleton.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 110808.i5mp281.ecstasy.2.jpg , 110808.i5mp281.ecstasy.1.jpg

Grant County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of a third suspect in connection to an ongoing investigation into a Halloween night attempted burglary and assault of an award winning medical marijuana provider in the Long Creek area of Grant County.

According to Grant County Undersheriff Todd McKinley, a third suspect identified as DANNY BRUCE EVANS, age 53, from Vancouver, Washington, was arrested November 4th in Vancouver and lodged in Clark County Jail for probation violation. EVANS, who previously lived in the Pendleton area and is acquainted with the two other suspects, had an additional charge of being a Fugitive From Justice added on November 6th when he was served with a Grant County warrant for Robbery in the First Degree and Criminal Conspiracy to Commit Robbery in the First Degree. EVANS is believed to allegedly be a conspirator with the two other suspects in a crime Undersheriff McKinley described as "not random" because the suspects specifically targeted the victim's residence.

In another investigative development, Oregon State Police (OSP) detectives served a search warrant November 6th on a vehicle in the Pendleton area where they recovered a gun believed to be used during the crime.

Two other suspects remain in custody. BOBBY LEE RUSTON, age 31, from Pendleton, was a person of interest in the case and remained at large until he was arrested by Walla Walla Police Department the evening of November 1st. A tip led police to a private residence were he was arrested without incident. RUSTON, who had outstanding warrants and was believed to be armed and dangerous, had suffered a gunshot wound to his right hand. He is currently lodged at a Walla Walla area jail.

The second suspect, LANCE SANCHEZ, age 28, from Milton Freewater, was arrested the night of the crime when he attempted to run from an OSP traffic stop near Pilot Rock. SANCHEZ is in custody in the Umatilla County Jail.

The investigation centers on a Halloween evening incident during which a 53-year old Long Creek resident was the victim of two masked subjects who the homeowner initially believed to be pulling a Halloween prank. The situation became serious when one of the masked individuals displayed a handgun and told the victim he was willing to use it. Investigators believe the suspects' motive was to steal medical marijuana from the victim's residence.

A scuffle ensued between the male victim and the suspect with the firearm, resulting in the handgun discharging. Neither the victim nor any of the other persons present in the residence were struck. The victim was hit repeatedly by the second suspect before both suspects fled the scene.

Grant County Sheriff Deputies, Oregon State Police and John Day Police Officers responded to the initial Long Creek incident.

Evans Photograph Source: Clark County Sheriff's Office

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


Attached Media Files: Evans.Danny.jpg

A Caldwell, Idaho woman died Tuesday after a single vehicle rollover crash on Interstate 84 about ten miles west of Baker City.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) Sergeant Darin Helman, on November 4, 2008 at approximately 11:34 a.m. OSP and personnel from Baker City and Rural Fire Department responded to a reported rollover crash in the median on Interstate 84 near milepost 293. Preliminary investigation indicates a 1997 Dodge Caravan driven by SARA VALENCIA, age 62, from Caldwell, Idaho, was traveling eastbound on Interstate 84 when it drifted off the highway and into the median where it rolled several times before coming to a rest on its top.

Baker Fire Department personnel extricated VALENCIA from the vehicle where she was pronounced deceased at the scene. She was using safety restraints and airbags deployed.

OSP troopers from the Baker City office are continuing their investigation. ODOT assisted by closing one eastbound lane for approximately 2 hours during the scene investigation.

Photograph Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 110408.fatal.i84mp295.2.jpg , 110408.fatal.i84mp295.3.jpg

Due to system upgrades being done between 5:00 p.m., Thursday, November 6th, and 8:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 11th, Oregon State Police will be unable to post Department news releases on our website. This will not affect those who currently are registered to receive our news releases distributed through the FlashNews Network Internet service. During that time, our news releases may also be viewed at:

http://www.flashalert.net/news.html?id=1002

How to sign up to receive our news releases (free):

Oregon State Police news releases are distributed via email to media and subscribing public through the FlashNews Network Internet service. The FlashNews/FlashAlert system gives you access to emergency messages, breaking news, and news releases. There is no charge to subscribe to receive Oregon State Police news releases. To subscribe go to the FlashAlert.net website at www.flashalert.net.

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

Oregon State Police, working in cooperation with the Gilliam County District Attorney's Office and Gilliam County Sheriff's Office, are investigating the death of a La Grande area man who shot himself Saturday during a traffic stop on Interstate 84 about five miles east of the John Day Dam.

On November 1, 2008 at approximately 4:30 p.m. a Gilliam County Sheriff's Office sergeant accompanied by a reserve deputy stopped a 1998 Chevrolet Blazer westbound Interstate 84 near milepost 119 for traveling 86 mph in a 65 mph speed zone. Upon initial contact with the lone occupant, officers identified him as WOODY CHARLES ALBERS, age 20, from La Grande. After positively identifying ALBERS, he was asked to drive ahead to a safer location about a mile west.

After moving to the secondary location and stopping, the sergeant asked ALBERS to exit the car and come to the area where the officers were standing on the freeway shoulder. While waiting for ALBERS to exit the vehicle they heard a single gunshot, took cover and notified dispatch a shot was fired from inside the vehicle.

The officers waited about a minute and noted no movement from the vehicle, so they approached and saw ALBERS had suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound to his chest. They removed ALBERS and began emergency medical aid until relieved by Arlington ambulance personnel.

LifeFlight was dispatched from the Dallesport area. After LifeFlight's arrival, ALBERS was pronounced deceased.

Oregon State Police was requested to lead the investigation. Information learned to this date indicates ALBERS was on felony probation related to a drug conviction. The vehicle driven by ALBERS and the handgun he used in the shooting were determined by an OSP La Grande-area investigator to be stolen from a neighbor's residence while they were out of town.

Questions for Gilliam County Sheriff's Office should be directed to Sheriff Gary Bettencourt at (541) 384-2851.

The investigation is continuing and will be reviewed by Gilliam County District Attorney Marion Weatherford.

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

The suspect sought by Grant County Sheriff's Office and Oregon State Police related to an investigation of a Halloween night attempted burglary and assault of an award winning medical marijuana provider in the Long Creek area was arrested Saturday night in Walla Walla, Washington.

According to Grant County Undersheriff Todd McKinley, BOBBY LEE RUSTON, age 31, from Pendleton, was a person of interest in the case and remained at large until he was arrested by Walla Walla Police Department the evening of November 1st. A tip led police to a private residence were he was arrested without incident.

RUSTON, who had outstanding warrants and was believed to be armed and dangerous, had suffered a gunshot wound to his right hand. He is currently lodged at a Walla Walla area jail.

On Halloween evening, October 31, 2008, a 53-year old Long Creek resident was the victim of two masked subjects who the homeowner initially believed to be pulling a Halloween prank. The situation became serious when one of the masked individuals displayed a handgun and told the victim he was willing to use it. Investigators believe the suspects' motive was to steal medical marijuana from the victim's residence.

A scuffle ensued between the male victim and the suspect with the firearm, resulting in the handgun discharging. Neither the victim nor any of the other persons present in the residence were struck. The victim was hit repeatedly by the second suspect before both suspects fled the scene.

The victim, David Verstoppen, was later treated and released from the Blue Mountain Hospital in John Day.

Information provided by witnesses led to a traffic stop by Oregon State Police on a vehicle of interest south of Pilot Rock. The vehicle's two occupants attempted to flee but one of the suspects, LANCE SANCHEZ, age 28, from Milton Freewater, was taken into custody nearby. Officers were unable to find RUSTON.

SANCHEZ was lodged in Umatilla County Jail for Assault in the Second Degree, Attempted Robbery in the First Degree, Burglary in the First Degree, and Menacing.

Grant County Sheriff Deputies, Oregon State Police and John Day Police Officers responded to the initial Long Creek incident.

Photograph - RUSTON and SANCHEZ

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


Attached Media Files: Ruston.jpg , Sanchez.jpg

(Note: Correction to Umatilla County District Attorney's Office news release to accurately show trial is scheduled for December 18th)

JOHN COLE CARLGREN, age 46, from Carlton, appeared in Umatilla County Circuit Court Monday to answer to charges of manslaughter and driving under the influence of intoxicants related to the quadruple
automobile homicide of October 19, 2008.

The defendant entered pleas of "not guilty" to all counts before Presiding Judge Garry Reynolds. Judge Reynolds accepted the pleas and increased bail to one million (1,000,000) dollars. The case was set for jury trial on December 18, 2008 at 9:00 a.m. in the Umatilla County Circuit Court in Pendleton.

A trial readiness conference was set for December 12, 2008. The Grand Jury for Umatilla County indicted the defendant last week on four counts of manslaughter in the first degree, four counts of manslaughter in the second degree, and one count of driving under the influence of intoxicants. Manslaughter in the first degree is a crime listed in Ballot Measure 11, and each count carries a minimum mandatory prison sentence of ten years. Manslaughter in the second degree, also a Measure 11 crime, carries a minimum mandatory
prison sentence of six years and four months.

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

Halloween falls on a Friday this year, which may increase the excitement — and vulnerability — of some young trick-or-treaters. Adults, too, may need extra warning, as irresponsible celebrating can quickly spoil a fun evening. The Oregon Department of Transportation and the Oregon State Police are urging parents, children and motorists to take special care this Halloween weekend to be alert and drive sober.

"Our youngest population is going to be excited about getting out and getting their treats, which leaves little or no consideration for cars or other potential dangers," said Sue Riehl, Youth and
Impaired Driving Program manager for ODOT's Transportation Safety Division. "Parents can help in a lot of ways, such as putting reflective stickers on costumes and teaching children to walk and watch, not run, as they make their way through the neighborhood."

Local law enforcement officers will also be on the lookout for ‘scary' drivers as part of the aggressive "Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest." national campaign over the weekend.

"Halloween should involve safe family fun," said Captain Gerry Gregg, director of the Oregon State Police Patrol Services Division. "Unfortunately, Halloween can also be a dangerous and
deadly night of the year leading to real-life nightmares due to impaired driving."

ODOT Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) data reveals a sobering reminder and startling fact that 100 percent of the fatalities (8) on Halloween night (6:00 p.m., October 31st to
5:59 a.m., November 1st) between 1998 and 2007 in Oregon occurred in alcohol-involved traffic crashes. Nationwide, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 44 percent of all highway fatalities on Halloween night involved a driver or a motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher, which is illegal in every state.

ODOT and OSP offer these simple reminders for a safer Halloween:

For all drivers:
* Slow down in residential neighborhoods and obey all traffic signs and signals.
* Slow down on streets where there are no sidewalks and children are walking on or near
the shoulder of the road.
* Watch for children walking in or near the street or on medians or curbs.
* Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and cautiously. Have child passengers enter
and exit cars on the curb side, away from traffic.

For adult traffic safety:
* Be responsible — never drive impaired.
* If you plan to drink, choose your sober driver before going out.
* Once impaired, use mass transit, call a cab or ask a sober friend to get you home.
* If all else fails, just stay where you are and sleep it off.
* Always buckle up — it's still your best defense against an impaired driver.
* If hosting a Halloween party, make sure all guests leave with a sober driver.

For parents and children:
* Dress children in bright costumes. Use reflective tape or stickers on dark costumes.
* Apply face paint or cosmetics appropriate for children directly to the face. It is safer than
a loose-fitting mask that can obstruct a child's vision.
* If a mask is worn, cut the eyeholes large enough for full vision.
* Have children carry flashlights or glow sticks to improve their visibility.
* Secure hats so they will not slip over children's eyes.
* Remind children to cross streets only at intersections.
* Teach them to stop and look for cars, looking to the left, right and left again before crossing, and then to keep looking both ways for cars while they cross.
* Teach them never to dart into a street or cross a street from between parked cars.
* Don't let children younger than 12 trick-or-treat or cross streets without adult supervision.

Elementary age pedestrians are at highest risk because they:
* have a field of vision one-third narrower than an adult's;
* are unable to determine the direction of sounds;
* cannot accurately judge the speed or distance of moving vehicles;
* overestimate their own abilities; and
* are easily hidden by parked cars, bushes, leaf piles, trash bins, etc.

Images Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

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


Attached Media Files: Devilcar_72dpiRGB.jpg , Porch.PNG , DD2_BLU.jpg

A Pasco, Washington man was arrested by Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers Thursday morning when they discovered approximately 115 pounds of marijuana with the help of an OSP drug detection canine in a van during a traffic stop on Interstate 5 south of Ashland.

On October 23, 2008 at approximately 8:00 a.m. OSP troopers from the Central Point Area Command office stopped a 1997 Dodge van for a traffic violation northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 11. Troopers identified the lone occupant as JESUS LOPEZ-RAMOS, age 53, from Pasco, Washington, and during contact noted an odor of marijuana coming from the van.

Subsequent to the stop, troopers discovered approximately 115 pounds of marijuana inside the van. The seized marijuana has an estimated value of approximately $345,000.

LOPEZ-RAMOS was arrested and lodged in the Jackson County Jail for Unlawful Possession, Distribution, and Manufacturing a Controlled Substance - Marijuana.

The investigation is continuing related to this stop.

Other past notable marijuana seizures involving Oregon State Police troopers during traffic stops:

* On October 9, 2008 an OSP trooper stopped a passenger car northbound Interstate 5 south of Ashland and seized approximately 28 pounds of marijuana.
* On August 25, 2008 an OSP trooper stopped a pickup westbound Interstate 84 near La Grande and seized approximately 150 pounds of marijuana.
* On May 10, 2008 an OSP trooper stopped a passenger car northbound on Highway 97 near Chemult and seized approximately 93 pounds of marijuana.
* On May 8, 2007 an OSP trooper with a drug detection canine stopped a passenger car westbound on Interstate 84 near Pendleton and seized approximately 171 pounds.
* On June 4, 2006 an OSP trooper stopped a pickup northbound on Interstate 5 near Central Point and seized approximately 200 pounds of marijuana.
* On June 29, 2005 an OSP sergeant stopped a passenger car eastbound on Interstate 84 near Hood River and seized approximately 63 pounds of marijuana.
* On April 4, 2005 an OSP trooper stopped a pickup southbound on Interstate 5 near Salem and seized approximately 323 pounds of marijuana.

Lopez-Ramos Photograph Source: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

Photographs of Marijuana Source: Oregon State Police

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


Attached Media Files: 102308.i5mp11.marijuana.2.jpg , 102308.i5mp11.marijuana.4.jpg , 102308.i5mp11.marijuana.1.jpg , lopez.ramos.jpeg

Note: Link to past news release with photograph links is available on the OSP website at http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/NEWSRL/news/10_20_2008_update_quad_fatal_i84_mp219.shtml

The following is a news release from the Umatilla County District Attorney's Office:

The Grand Jury for Umatilla County indicted JOHN COLE CARLGREN, age 46, today for driving under the influence and causing the deaths of four people in a crash on Interstate 84 near milepost 219 on October 19, 2008. The grand jury charged CARLGREN with four counts of Manslaughter in the First Degree, four counts of Manslaughter in the Second Degree, and one count of Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants.

CARLGREN is scheduled to appear to face the new charges on Monday, October 27, 2008, at 1:15 p.m. before Presiding Judge Garry Reynolds in Umatilla County Circuit Court in Hermiston.

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

Defendant Described as "Sexually Fixated on Children"

A former Vancouver, Washington resident who pleaded guilty last March to Receipt of Child Pornography failed to show up for sentencing this morning in U.S. District Court in Tacoma. 47-year-old PAUL ERIC PRESLEY, had been released on bond with Geographic Positioning System (GPS) monitoring. On Saturday, November 15, 2008, PRESLEY cut off his GPS ankle bracelet, and apparently fled his Portland, Oregon residence.

At his sentencing hearing scheduled for this morning in front of U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle, prosecutors were asking for a 71 month prison sentence. According to PRESLEY's plea agreement, on December 6, 2006, Vancouver Police responded to a 9-1-1 call at PRESLEY's home. PRESLEY's wife told the officers she called 9-1-1 because PRESLEY had child pornography stored on his desktop and laptop computers. Officers seized the desktop computer but did not find the laptop. The next day PRESLEY's daughter and her boyfriend delivered the laptop to police saying PRESLEY had given them the computer and told them to dispose of it. A forensic examination of the computer revealed more than 2,900 images and 235 movies of children engaged in explicit sexual conduct.

Prosecutors asked for a sentence at the high end of PRESLEY's guidelines range noting "Paul Eric Presley is sexually fixated with children. He has downloaded, stored, and viewed thousands of images of child pornography." The Government noted that the evidence suggested that Presley was openly sexually interested in at least one member of his own family.

PRESLEY's failure to appear for his hearing means he may now be charged with a separate crime punishable by up to ten years in prison.

In order to locate and arrest PRESLEY, law enforcement is releasing his booking photo and asking anyone with knowledge of PRESLEY's whereabouts to contact law enforcement in their area by calling 9-1-1, or to contact the FBI at 360-695-5661.

To obtain a copy of the booking photo via email please contact Emily Langlie, Public Affairs Officer for the United States Attorney's Office, at (206) 553-4110.

The case was investigated by the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) and the FBI.

Additional information from Vancouver Police Investigators: There were an estimate of over 7000 images of child pornography in addition to several hundred movie files located as evidence in this case. Vancouver Police conducted the forensic investigation.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Paul Eric Presley should contact their local law enforcement agency immediately.

Line between Selah and Vantage will enhance electrical service

YAKIMA, Wash. — Interested local residents are encouraged to attend an upcoming open house session to review Pacific Power's plans to build a new transmission line on a proposed route between Vantage and a substation near Selah, Wash.

The approximately 40-mile, 230-kilovolt line will connect an existing power substation at Pomona Heights near Selah and the Bonneville Power Administration substation near Vantage. It will be built within a 125-foot-wide right of way. As currently planned, much of the new line would cross the U.S. Army Yakima Training Center.

Pacific Power will work with local landowners, community leaders, local and state agencies, tribes and others who may be affected to help determine the preferred final route for the line, with a goal to have it in operation by late 2012.

The open house is scheduled for:

Selah Civic Center
Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2008
Open house 6:30-8:30 p.m.; brief presentation at 7 p.m.
216 South 1st Street
Selah, Washington

More information is available at www.pacificpower.net/transmission, in the Vantage to Pomona Heights section. Comments or questions also can be directed to the project hotline at 877-620-7678.

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About Pacific Power
Pacific Power strives to promote innovation and works with customers and communities to increase the visibility of renewable energy generation technologies through education and community outreach. Pacific Power is headquartered in Portland and provides electric service to more than 724,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. As part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, Pacific Power and Rocky Mountain Power provide approximately 1.7 million customers in six Western states with reliable, efficient energy. The company works to meet growing energy demand while protecting and enhancing the environment.

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. – The Oregon Air National Guard will salute America's fallen heroes and veterans with flyovers for various ceremonies at locations throughout Oregon and Northern California. The 173rd Fighter Wing, based in Klamath Falls, will launch F-15 Eagle fighter jets for flyovers at the following times and locations:

Tuesday, November 11th, 2008.

11:00 a.m. Veterans Park, Klamath Falls, Ore.
11:10 a.m. Tulelake, Calif.
11:20 a.m. Central Point, Ore.
11:30 a.m. VA Facility, White City, Ore.
11:40 a.m. Parade, Roseburg, Ore.
11:55 a.m. North Bend, Ore.

All passes will be approximately 1,000 feet above ground level and 350 knots airspeed. Flights could be cancelled or times changed due to inclement weather or operational contingencies.
The Oregon Air National Guard has been an integral part of the nation's air defense since 1941. The 173rd Fighter Wing remains a premier F-15 pilot training facility in the United States.

CLACKAMAS, Ore. -- The Oregon Military Museum is scheduled to temporarily close and begin its transition to a new facility on the Oregon National Guard's Camp Withycombe, Nov. 16.

Museum services and activities will be suspended until the grand re-opening. These include public visits, group tours, access to library, archives and collections for research purposes, off-site community displays of artifacts and vehicles, and artifact and library book donation offers.

The museum must relocate from four of its buildings by June 1, 2009 to make room for the 41st Infantry Division Armed Forces Reserve Center that will serve 1,300 soldiers.

Museum artifacts will be housed in the existing Clackamas Armory. The re-opening will be announced at a later date.

"Change is always hard," said Tracy Thoennes, museum director. "But this is an amazing growth opportunity for this quiet little museum. This move will allow us to better serve our audiences, preserve our military history, and to tell meaningful and relevant stories of how military history and the National Guard impact Oregonians."

The new location will require reconfiguration to meet the needs of the museum's exhibition, education, administrative, collections, and research functions. The increased space and better facilities will provide long-term benefits to the museum and its audiences, said Thoennes.

Museum master planning is underway to estimate the costs of this remodeling, and to develop a capital campaign to fund the needed improvements.

The Oregon Military Museum has been at its current location since it was established by the Oregon Military Department in 1975 as the state's official military history repository.

The museum's mission is to tell the story of Oregon's military heritage, focusing on the early militia through today's Oregon National Guard, to collect and ensure access to historical artifacts and archives, to preserve the items entrusted to the Museum's care, and to educate and inspire visitors through exhibits, living history and interpretive programs.

The Museum's artifact collection has more than 13,000 objects, 25,000 library volumes, and 750 cubic feet of archives, valued at about $6 million. It is part of the U.S. Army Museum System and the National Guard Museum System.

SALEM - An increase in mileage reimbursement was announced Monday by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The mileage reimbursement is for certain veterans who travel to VA medical facilities.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James B. Peake announced that mileage reimbursement rate was raised from 28.5 cents per mile to 41.5 cents per mile for all eligible veterans. Increases were made available immediately after the November 17 announcement. Dr. Peake said, "We are pleased to be able to provide them with the increase needed and we will continue to work with our veterans to ensure they receive the quality care they need."
Director Jim Willis of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA) applauded the benefit increase. "This benefit continues to assist veterans who travel to VA medical facilities in the state of Oregon. Making the lives of veterans better every day is not only the right thing to do, it is the duty of a grateful nation," Willis said.
The increase represents the second mileage reimbursement increase in 30 years. "We owe it to our veterans to give them the best care possible," said Peake. "The increase will once again provide assistance to our veterans, especially in these difficult economic times, to help offset gasoline costs and to assist veterans with access to the VA's world-class health system." The mileage reimbursement rate has increased twice during Dr. Peake's command.
Beginning in January, deductibles will decrease to $3 for a one-way trip, $6 for a round trip, with a maximum of $16 per calendar month. Until then, the current deductible amounts applied to certain mileage reimbursements will remain frozen at $7.77 for a one-way trip, $15.54 for a round trip, and capped at a maximum of $46.62 per calendar month. Deductibles can be waived if they cause a financial hardship to the veteran.
Veterans wounded or disabled in service to their country are able to claim this benefit when traveling in relation to a Compensation and Pension (C&P) Examination. Five years of free VA Health Care is available to returning combat veterans.
Veterans, spouses, and dependents needing assistance with veteran benefits should contact their local County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) or ODVA. Service Officers can be located online at www.oregon.gov/ODVA/VSODIRECT or by calling 1-800-692-9666.

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SALEM – Veterans Day, Nov. 11, marks the day set aside to remember America's service men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces. In Salem, a ceremony will be held at the Afghan-Iraqi Freedom Memorial to pay tribute to all of Oregon's fallen military members who have served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

The public ceremony will begin at 2 p.m. and will commemorate the five Oregon service members who have been killed in Iraq and Afghanistan since May. Their names have been inscribed on the Memorial's Wall of Honor, located on the grounds of the Oregon Veterans' Building at 700 Summer Street N.E.

The ceremony is also dedicated to the families and survivors of those fallen service members.

The keynote speaker will be Col. Dan Hokanson, the commander of the Oregon Army National Guard's 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team. Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA) Deputy Director Paula Brown will serve as Master of Ceremonies and conduct the unveiling of the newly added names of the fallen.

Dedicated in November 2006, the memorial's fountain surrounds an American serviceman who appears to be reaching out to a global map inside the pool. A decorative iron railing and walkways surround the memorial, and marble benches are located near the fountain.

A bronze plaque rests at the foot of the POW/MIA flagpole with the inscription, "All Gave Some, Some Gave All." This represents the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard and Reserve members who have volunteered to serve and protect their nation.

For more information contact ODVA at 1-800-828-8801, ext. 2390.
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SALEM – Special events, parades and other patriotic gatherings are being planned to honor military veterans throughout Oregon for Veterans Day, Nov. 11. The Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs has compiled the attached statewide list of events from information provided by communities.
Veterans Day was originally established to honor Americans who had served in World War I. The war ended in Europe on Nov. 11, 1918—90 years ago—when the armistice was signed between Germany and the European allies at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. The following year, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Nov. 11 as Armistice Day. In 1954, Congress voted to rename the federal holiday to Veterans Day in honor of all veterans.
Jim Willis, Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs, said Veterans Day remains as a time for all Americans to pause and recognize this country's veterans, to remember those who died while serving and those we are blessed to have with us.
"From the battlefields of World War I to the heat of Iraq and Afghanistan, their stories are part of our history. America rose to greatness on the shoulders of our military veterans," Willis said. "Each Veterans Day we honor and recognize veterans from all generations. It was these men and women who bore the responsibility of defending freedom and protecting our American way of life. We offer them our respect, our thanks, and our promise that we will never forget their valor and sacrifice," he added.
Events in Oregon vary from patriotic ceremonies and music to parades, including the annual Albany Veterans Day parade on Nov. 11—-the largest parade west of the Mississippi River.
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Attached Media Files: Veterans Day Events_08_News ReleaseAttch.doc

SALEM - The Oregon Dept. of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA) continues to be at the tip of the sword in response to Warrior Care and Suicide Outreach. Across the nation, November will be recognized as Warrior Care Month.

The Plymouth colony first cared for veterans beginning in 1636. Three hundred and seventy-two years later, the United States continues to provide the best possible care for our greatest assets. Communication has changed throughout the centuries. To address the communication needs of our younger warriors and families, the Department of Defense (DoD) has developed a new website portal, Warrior Care. Warrior Care is available online at www.warriorcare.mil.

The website serves as a portal for each branch of the US Armed Forces. Whether you are currently active-duty military, veteran, a family member, or a concerned neighbor, DoD encourages you to visit the links on this site for answers to your questions or ideas for where to turn next.

One of the greatest tragedies of human life is suicide. There are a number of reasons why a citizen may take their life. For military veterans they include, but not limited to, the following:

-- Illicit drug use
-- Service connected injuries
-- Chronic pain
-- Deployments to combat zones
-- Frequent deployments
-- Overuse of alcohol
-- Financial hardships
-- Exposure to extreme stress
-- Military sexual trauma
-- Length of deployments

The Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has founded a national suicide prevention hotline to ensure veterans in emotional crisis have free, 24/7 access to trained counselors. Veterans can call the Lifeline number, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), and press "1" to be routed to the Veterans Hotline.

ODVA provides additional information online at www.oregon.gov/ODVA/SUICIDE.shtml. ODVA also provides a county-by-county statewide directory of resources available from the United States Dept. of Veterans' Affairs, ODVA, and the 36 counties of Oregon. The Directory is online at www.oregon.gov/ODVA/VSODIRECT.

We, like you, understand that there is no greater calling than to care for those that ensured our freedom. ODVA stands ready to continue supporting America's great military families.

EDITOR'S NOTE: THIS IS A RESUBMISSION OF OUR 11/19 NEWS RELEASE WHICH HAS AN INCORRECT WEB SITE ADDRESS IN THE BODY OF THE TEXT. THIS NEWS RELEASE HAS BEEN CORRECTED.

Somewhere in communities all across the state there are examples of excellence for efforts on behalf of Oregon's heritage, and the Oregon Heritage Commission and State Historic Preservation Office wish to recognize those individuals, businesses and organizations for such outstanding efforts.

Nominations are encouraged for exceptional and meritorious work; special consideration is given to the development of new ideas, approaches and innovations in heritage-related activities. The Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards are also intended to honor those who have made the most from available resources and skills.

Award nominations should be postmarked no later than January 20. A complete nomination package, which includes an application and other supporting material, is available at www.oregonheritage.org (click on "2009 Heritage Awards" under the heading News and Events), or request that the package be mailed (see contact information below).

The 2009 Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards will be presented at the Northwest History and Heritage Extravaganza on April 17 in Portland by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department's Heritage Programs division.

The Northwest History and Heritage Extravaganza is a multi-organization gathering that includes the 2009 Oregon Heritage Conference, the Pacific Northwest History Conference and the annual meetings of the Northwest Archivists and the Northwest Oral History Association. The Extravaganza will have the theme of "Rendezvous 2009!" and will take place April 15-18. The conference hotel will be the Holiday Inn at the Portland International Airport, but activities will also take place at some of the Portland area's many historical and heritage resources. Conference updates will be posted on the above listed website.

PASCO, WA – Mark Twain Elementary will hold two assemblies (9:30 AM and 12:30 PM), and a parent night (6:30 PM), on Tuesday, October 28 as part of a kick-off event introducing the school community to "Bully No More."

The school, located in Pasco, became involved in the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program through ESD 123 during the 07-08 school year. Assembly presenter, Dave Rojahn, will teach the four steps to bully prevention through comedy and magic.

Mark Twain Principal, Jody Hughes, is enthusiastic about implementation of the year-long, ongoing process at her school.

For more information, contact Toni Neidhold (ESD 123) at 509.544.5762, or tneidhold@esd123.org.

PASCO, WA – While bullying still may be perceived by some as an inescapable, childhood "right-of-passage," many of today's schools, policymakers, and parents are recognizing this abusive behavior for what it is – and they're ready to do something about it.

Mark Twain Elementary will hold two assemblies (9:30 AM and 12:30 PM), and a parent night (6:30 PM), on Tuesday, October 28 as part of a kick-off event introducing the school community to "Bully No More." The school, located in Pasco, became involved in the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program through ESD 123 during the 07-08 school year. Assembly presenter, Dave Rojahn, will teach the four steps to bully prevention through comedy and magic.

The Olweus Bullying Prevention Program, originated by Norwegian creator Dan Olweus, Ph.D., is the most well-known, researched program available. The program has over 35 years of international research and successful implementation.

Mark Twain Principal, Jody Hughes, is enthusiastic about implementation of the year-long, ongoing process at her school.

The program is three-part," explains Hughes. "It provides information for the school, the parents, and the child, while offering the extra tool to address the situation." She adds, "We are providing the opportunity for students to learn the rules, while building positive relationships."

For more information regarding the Olweus program, visit their website at www.hazelden.org/olweus, or contact Toni Neidhold (ESD 123) at 509.544.5762, or tneidhold@esd123.org.

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About ESD 123: Educational Service District 123, based in Pasco, WA, is one of nine ESDs in Washington. Dedicated to delivering collaborative solutions that promote learning, ESD 123 serves 23 school districts in seven counties of Southeastern Washington. Under Superintendent Bruce Hawkins and its board of directors, this legislatively mandated, not-for-profit educational organization provides efficiency of educational systems and equity of learning opportunities for over 60,000 Washington students. For more information about ESD 123, please call 509-544-5700 or 888-547-8441 or visit www.esd123.org.