Business Grants Available in Jefferson County; Bend, Redmond Host Business Groups; COVID-19 Testing Locations; More Updates, Daily Digest 4.30.2020

BUSINESS GRANTS AVAILABLE IN JEFFERSON COUNTY; BEND, REDMOND HOST BUSINESS GROUPS; COVID-19 TESTING LOCATIONS; MORE UPDATES, DAILY DIGEST 4.30.2020

News Release from Central Oregon Emergency Information Network

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COVID-19 GRANTS NOW AVAILABLE FOR MADRAS & JEFFERSON COUNTY BUSINESSES
The Madras City Council, Madras Redevelopment Commission, Jefferson County Commissioners, and the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC) have set up an Economic Assistance Grant Program to help Jefferson County businesses adversely affected by COVID-19. The Madras City Council appropriated $100,000 for businesses located within Madras city limits and the Madras Redevelopment Commission appropriated $200,000 for businesses located within the Madras Urban Renewal area. Additionally, Jefferson County and COIC have designated $35,000 for businesses outside of Madras city limits but within Jefferson County. Awarded grants will be up to $2,500 per business. City and County task forces have been established to review applications and administer the program.
Learn more and apply online today.

LOCAL BUSINESS LEADERS FOCUS ON ECONOMIC COME BACK PLANNING
(photo) The cities of Bend and Redmond, in collaboration with the Bend Chamber and the Redmond Chamber, recently concluded listening sessions with focus groups from various business sectors in the community to collect feedback that could help inform economic reopening plans. The feedback is designed to help leaders understand what businesses need to help them prepare a comeback plan, as Gov. Kate Brown announces reopening plans. According to a summary from the City of Bend, local business owners are committed to the safety of their customers and employees in order to keep public health a top priority when considering reopening protocols and procedures.
Learn more about the guidance from focus groups

LOCAL COVID-19 TESTING LOCATIONS
 Central Oregonians experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, even mild, are encouraged to seek testing. More than 25 health care partners in the region are now scheduling appointments to test for COVID-19. Find a local COVID-19 testing location.
Symptoms that may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus:

• Fever
  
• Cough
  
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  
• Chills
  
• Repeated shaking with chills
  
• Muscle pain
  
• Headache
  
• Sore throat
  
• New loss of taste or smell.
  

If you develop any of these for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately:

• Trouble breathing
  
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  
• New confusion or inability to arouse
  
• Bluish lips or face.
  

REPORT COVID-19 DISCRIMINATION OR HARASSMENT
Oregon is a place of welcome. Together we must fight bias that is occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic. Asian-Americans and Native Americans have been denied entry, denied service, or have received less service because of misplaced fears about COVID-19. Incidents of discrimination and harassment are unacceptable. It is illegal to discriminate against someone because you are afraid or believe that their race, color, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ability, or national origin predisposes them to COVID-19 infection. The Oregon Department of Justice urges Oregonians to report acts of hate or bias online or by calling 844-924-BIAS (2427).

CITY OF BEND ENCOURAGES PERIODIC PIPE FLUSHING
Owners of closed businesses or vacation rentals should consider periodically flushing the water pipes in their vacant buildings during the “Stay Home, Save Lives” order, according to recent information from the City of Bend.

When water leaves the City of Bend’s distribution system and enters private service connections, the water may stagnate in the plumbing, appliances or other devices and adversely impact the water quality.

According to the CDC, stagnant or standing water can cause conditions that increase the risk for growth and spread of Legionella (cause of Legionnaires’ disease) and other biofilm-associated bacteria. Stagnant water can also lead to low or undetectable levels of disinfectant, such as chlorine. Depending on the type of interior plumbing, there may also be risk of increased levels of lead and copper. Learn more on the City of Bend’s webpage with resources and information.

ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.
Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities  
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541.316.0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com.

Ballots in the Mail; Parks Increase Stewardship Staffing; No Antibody Testing Locally; Daily Digest 4.28.2020

BALLOTS IN THE MAIL; PARKS INCREASE STEWARDSHIP STAFFING; NO ANTIBODY TESTING LOCALLY; DAILY DIGEST 4.28.2020

News Release from Central Oregon Emergency Information Network

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PREPAID POSTAGE ON MAY 19 PRIMARY BALLOTS
On Wednesday, close to 177,000 ballots for the May 19 Primary Election will be mailed to voters in Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties.

County Clerks encourage voters to vote early and take advantage of new pre-paid postage for ballots.

“Oregon’s Vote By Mail elections allow voters to stay at home, stay safe, and vote early,” said Deschutes County Clerk Nancy Blankenship. “We encourage all voters to take advantage of new prepaid postage and return their ballots by mail.”

The last day to safely return a ballot by mail is May 12. After that date, ballots should be returned using official ballot drop boxes. Find a ballot drop box near you. 

BEND PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT INCREASES STEWARDSHIP STAFFING
The Bend Park and Recreation District is increasing its park stewardship team to educate and inform park and trail users about distancing requirements and to seek compliance with temporary closures to amenities including skateparks, sport courts and playgrounds.
Park stewards and Bend Patrol staff visit parks and trails to inform users about new rules and encourage community compliance with restrictions. They are coordinating with law enforcement and recently doubled the staffing for park stewardship.

District staff members from recreation that have reduced duties due to recreation facility closures and program cancellations are serving the community in new ways as temporary assistant park stewards. The additional staff means there are park stewards on duty from early morning to early evening seven days per week. Learn more about this effort.

NO FDA-APPROVED ANTIBODY TESTS LOCALLY
Many individuals are seeking serological tests, more commonly called antibody tests, for COVID-19. According to the Federal Drug Administration, approved tests “detect the body’s immune response to the infection caused by the virus rather than detecting the virus itself.” Because antibodies are typically not detectable until 10 to 14 days after infections with COVID-19, the FDA cautions that antibody tests should not be used to diagnose COVID-19. In addition, the World Health Organization has indicated that it is too soon to know if recovered COVID-19 patients are immune to the virus.

While many test developers are currently seeking FDA approval, there are few approved antibody tests on the market. The FDA warns that, “some firms are falsely claiming that their serological tests are FDA approved or authorized, or falsely claiming that they can diagnose COVID-19.”
Currently, there are no FDA-approved antibody tests available in Central Oregon. Individuals seeking an antibody test, locally or online, should ensure it is FDA-approved.

ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.
Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities  
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541.316.0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com.

Suicide prevention resources; Poison control info about disinfectants -- Daily Digest April 24, 2020

SUICIDE PREVENTION RESOURCES; POISON CONTROL INFO ABOUT DISINFECTANTS -- DAILY DIGEST APRIL 24, 2020

News Release from Central Oregon Emergency Information Network

SUICIDE PREVENTION RESOURCES AVAILABLE
Deschutes County Health Services shared suicide prevention resources today. According to the local public health authority, suicide is the most preventable form of death and something we can all do to help prevent suicide is to promote resources in our community.
Resources include:

• Deschutes County Crisis Line: 541-322-7500 x9
  
• Jefferson County BestCare Prevention: 541-475-6575
  
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
  
• Central Oregon Suicide Prevention Alliance’s Resource page: www.preventsuicideco.org
  
• Individuals age 55 or older and feeling isolated or just want to have a friendly conversation, call the Senior Loneliness Line at 503-200-1633
  
• Individuals age 21 or younger and want support for any problem, big or small, text teen2teen to 839863 or call YouthLine at 1-877-968-8491.
  

POISON CONTROL HOSTS DISINFECTANTS Q&A NEXT WEEK; REMINDERS ABOUT CLEANERS, UNAUTHORIZED MEDICINE
Rumors persist about off-label use of disinfectants and unauthorized medical treatments for COVID-19. The American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC), The National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC), Oregon Poison Center, and Virginia Poison Center will host a “disinfectants Q&A” via Facebook on April 30, 2020 at 2pm ET. From the AAPCC: “As Americans navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces continues to be an important part of preventing the spread. It can be difficult to determine the difference between facts and myths regarding COVID-19.” The Q&A will mitigate this issue by providing tips for how to use disinfectants safely and effectively to prevent the spread of disease.
Questions or concerns about possible ingestion of unknown or possibly dangerous substances should be directed to call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 or visit PoisonHelp.org.
Centers for Disease Control guidance for disinfectants is at: Cleaning And Disinfecting Your Home.

Oregon Poison Center at Oregon Health Sciences University recommends the following:
There are no supplements, medications or remedies that are known to be effective in treating or preventing COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. More details in March 25 statement: Oregon Poison Center at OHSU warns against dangerous COVID-19 remedies circulating on social media.

ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts in Crook County, Deschutes County and Jefferson County point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.
Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities  
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541-316-0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com. 

Media Contact for Suicide Prevention: Whitney Schumacher, Suicide Prevention Coordinator, (541) 668-0760 

Additional resources for businesses through federal assistance programs

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES THROUGH FEDERAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

News Release from Central Oregon Emergency Information Network

The U.S. Congress approved an additional funding and relief package to help workers and business owners struggling with impacts from COVID-19. The relief bill, known as Phase 3.5 of the Coronavirus Stimulus Package, adds an additional $310 billion in funding to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and $60 billion to the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. President Donald Trump is expected to sign the bill later today.

Together, PPP and EIDL are the two primary programs designed to help businesses suffering hardships due to COVID-19.

Central Oregon workers and business owners can apply for one or both of the popular programs, both of which ran out of money after the first round of relief funding earlier this month.

The Small Business Administration website has the most current information for both programs. Business owners are encouraged to apply as early as possible and can find current information on the Paycheck Protection Program webpage and Economic Injury Disaster Loan webpage.

Business owners who have already applied for the PPP through their bank but did not receive funding should contact their bank about their application status. Some banks are expected to continue the process based on the initial application, though this could vary by bank. Business owners who applied for the EIDL through the Small Business Administration but have not received funds do not need to reapply.

Anyone with an interest in these Small Business Administration funding programs should consider taking some steps to ensure the quickest processing possible. These include:

• Be current – check the SBA website for the most recent guidance and forms.
• Be aligned – clearly know how you arrived at your average monthly payroll costs and loan amount.
• Be thorough – follow all the steps outlined in the forms and checklists.
• Be yourself – put the borrower’s name on the application as your company’s legal name. It should  match the name registered with the Secretary of State.
• Be prepared – collect your supporting documents and have them ready when applying.
• Be consistent – make sure to provide consistent information on all documentation.
• Be in touch – contact your banker with questions about PPP. For EIDL, your best local resource is the Small Business Development Center at Central Oregon Community College.

COCC’s Small Business Development Center is available to assist businesses with these programs. Contact the center at sbdc@cocc.edu or 541-383-7290 to schedule an appointment via phone or video conference. Small business advice is available at no cost to the business and is always confidential.

ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts in Crook County, Deschutes County and Jefferson County point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.
Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities   
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541-316-0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com. 

Creating community in Crook County; Governor announces lifted restrictions on hospitals; Daily Digest April 23, 2020

CREATING COMMUNITY IN CROOK COUNTY; GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES LIFTED RESTRICTIONS ON HOSPITALS; DAILY DIGEST APRIL 23, 2020

News Release from Central Oregon Emergency Information Network

CREATING COMMUNITY IN CROOK COUNTY
The hashtag #CrookCountyTogether is being used in Crook County Health Department Facebook posts that promote resources and information related to COVID-19. The Crook County Health Department encourages its partners and community members to use the hashtag and hopes it will create a sense of community for everyone living in Crook County.
Partners and community members are also encouraged to share the hashtag on posts that encompass positive messaging and unity, and promote the “Stay Home, Save Lives” message.

GOV. KATE BROWN LIFTS RESTRICTIONS ON HOSPITALS, MAKING MORE ELECTIVE SURGERIES POSSIBLE
Gov. Kate Brown announced today that her executive order limiting elective surgical procedures will be lifted May 1 provided that hospitals are able to meet certain COVID-19 preparedness criteria.

The change will allow St. Charles Health System hospitals and others around the state to slowly begin ramping up the number of surgeries performed, as long as the hospitals maintain an adequate supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintain open-bed capacity at or above 20 percent to accommodate a potential surge in COVID-19 patients.

This is good news for Central Oregon patients who have been dealing with difficult health situations while waiting for a safe time to receive care. St. Charles received some shipments of PPE last week and currently has adequate critical resources on hand.

The governor’s new executive order also stipulates that, to start, hospitals will be able to perform up to 50 percent of their pre-pandemic volume and will be required to review and prioritize cases based on indication and urgency. Some surgeries that require critical resources will continue to be postponed.

While the governor characterized the change as an important move for Oregonians whose quality of life has been impacted by the delayed surgeries—and for hospitals and health systems who have seen their revenues decline—she cautioned that the state will monitor and adapt its guidance as needed.

Since COVID-19 first appeared in Oregon, St. Charles hospitals have been performing up to 25 surgeries daily that were either considered urgent or fell within the exceptions of the governor’s prior executive order regarding elective surgeries. The kinds of surgeries performed varied, but all had the common caveat that a delay in moving forward with them would cause significant harm to the patient.

St. Charles formed a group of experts, called the Limited Elective Procedure Panel (LEPP), to evaluate requests for elective surgeries. The LEPP—which is led by clinical leaders throughout the health system—will remain in place to continue making decisions about which surgeries can be done.

ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts in Crook County, Deschutes County and Jefferson County point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.
Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities   
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541-316-0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com.

More local healthcare providers offering expanded COVID-19 testing

MORE LOCAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS OFFERING EXPANDED COVID-19 TESTING

News Release from Central Oregon Emergency Information Network

Downloadable file: Central Oregon COVID19 Testing Locations
Downloadable file: COEIN Update Graphic

For Immediate Release
Central Oregon Public Health departments want to help Central Oregonians access diagnostic testing for COVID-19 if they are experiencing symptoms. Twenty-two urgent care clinics and health care providers in Central Oregon are scheduling appointments for testing.

To find out which local locations offer COVID-19 testing, visit https://www.deschutes.org/health/page/covid-19-testing.

Local health care providers urge individuals who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 to call ahead to their provider, urgent care, or local clinic to schedule an appointment. Most urgent care clinics have expanded their criteria for testing to include people with mild symptoms. Common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

“We are thrilled that local health care providers now have the supplies and ability to expand testing capacity in Central Oregon,” said George Conway, Deschutes County Health Service Director. “This is an important service for individuals in our community and for public health to control and prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

In most situations, patients can expect to have a telehealth (virtual) appointment with a health care provider to determine if a test is warranted. Many locations are now offering drive-through appointments for testing so it is important to call ahead.

If you develop any of the following emergency warning signs for COVID-19, get medical attention immediately: trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face.

ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.

Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities  
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541.316.0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com.

Contact Info:
Crook County: Vicky Ryan, Preparedness Coordinator, 541-323-2467, vryan@h.co.crook.or.us

Deschutes County: Morgan Emerson, Preparedness Coordinator, 458-292-6256, morgan.emerson@deschutes.org

Jefferson County: Tami Kepa'a, Public Information Officer, 541-475-4456, tami.kepaa@co.jefferson.or.us

Upcoming FireFree Yard Debris Recycling Events

UPCOMING FIREFREE YARD DEBRIS RECYCLING EVENTS

News Release from Central Oregon Emergency Information Network

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For Immediate Release 
Date: April 22, 2020

Central Oregonians are staying home to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. This time at home provides a unique opportunity to prepare for fire season and take advantage of upcoming free yard debris recycling events.

Wildfire season is quickly approaching and Central Oregon has had a drier than average winter this year. Due to the dry winter, our area is seeing low fuel moisture levels and the long term forecast looks like we could have an early fire season in the Pacific Northwest. This means we have an elevated risk of larger fires in our area so Central Oregon fire personnel are already gearing up for a busy fire season.

COVID-19 could create some increased challenges to our fire season. Keeping wildland firefighters healthy and adhering to social distancing through this wildland season may be difficult. The goal will be to keep wildland fires small and focus on prevention efforts. This is where our community can help by preparing their homes and creating defensible space to get it fire ready.
Residents are asked to wear masks when they drop off their yard debris and to keep an appropriate space between themselves and other vehicles. Department of Solid Waste staff will conduct Fire Free events to allow for proper physical distancing between participants.

Now is the time to clean up your yards, create defensible spaces around homes and recycle that debris at FireFree collection sites FOR FREE in Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson counties.
This year, Deschutes County will offer expanded FireFree event dates from May 9 to May 24 at Knott Landfill and local transfer stations. In partnership with Brooks Resources and Bend Fire & Rescue, the Bend west side location will also be open for three weekends in May.

Deschutes County:
(The following sites will be open May 9-24, unless otherwise noted)

• Bend:
  
  • Knott Landfill; May 1 to October 31 hours: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 61050 SE 27th Street, Bend
    
  • Westside Collection Site - Discovery West/Brooks Resources; weekends only; Crossing Drive at Skyliners Road - west of Miller Elementary (Crosby Dr.), near the Tree Farm subdivision
    
• La Pine: Southwest Transfer Station; Wednesday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 54580 Highway 97, La Pine
  
• Redmond: Negus Transfer Station, Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 2400 NE Maple Way, Redmond
  
• Sisters: Northwest Transfer Station; Wednesday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 68200 Fryrear Road, Cloverdale
  
• Sunriver: Sunriver Compost Site; May 15-16, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 18305 Cottonwood Road, Sunriver
  

Additionally:
Crook County: 

• Crook County Landfill in Prineville: Saturday, April 25
  

Jefferson County:

• Madras: Box Canyon Transfer Site; June 13-14 and 20-21
  

Frequently Asked Questions
What can I drop off?

• Grass clippings, brush, plant prunings, pine needles, pine cones, weeds, trimmings and branches, stumps or trees (no larger than 12” in diameter).
  
• NOT Accepted: rocks, lumber, metal, trash or plastics of any kind, including plastic bags. Sod and dirt.
  

Where are the most vulnerable places for glowing embers to ignite my home?

• Gutters and roof valleys with debris like pine needles and leaves. Clean them out. Despite a metal or asphalt shingle roof, the buildup of gutter debris provides necessary fuel for the glowing embers to ignite adjacent fascia boards or siding – most often made of wood.
  
• Shrubs and weeds that provide a path of fuel for fire to reach your trees or home. Reduce shrubs and other “ladder fuels” around your home to reduce the threat of ground fires igniting nearby trees, or your home.
  
• Flammable materials near a deck, patio or fence. Remove weeds, shrubs or any combustible materials from around, under or on top of your deck, patio or wood fence. This includes toys, planters, construction materials, patio furniture and cushions along with even small piles of pine needles or leaves.
  
• Bark mulch, pine needles, ornamental junipers or flammable vegetation within 5 feet of your home. This can provide the perfect ember bed that provides necessary fuel for the glowing embers to ignite the adjacent siding – most often made of wood.
  
• Woodpiles near your home or other combustible vegetation. Move woodpiles at least 30 feet away from your home or other combustibles.
  
• Visit the FireFree website at www.firefree.org for more information about how you can prepare your property for wildfire season.
  

#####
ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.
Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities 
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541.316.0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com.

Contact Info:
Boone Zimmerlee, Deschutes County Fire Adapted Communities Coordinator, 541-322-7129, Boone.Zimmerlee@deschutes.org

Health Screenings for Children; Resources for Victims of Domestic Violence; Sewing Smokejumpers; Daily Digest April 22, 2020

HEALTH SCREENINGS FOR CHILDREN; RESOURCES FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE; SEWING SMOKEJUMPERS; DAILY DIGEST APRIL 22, 2020

News Release from Central Oregon Emergency Information Network

Downloadable file: Redmond smokejumper Dan Norskog sews cloth face covers. Courtesy: Deschutes National Forest
Downloadable file: Free health screenings for Children provided by Healthy Beginnings.

FREE HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT SCREENINGS FOR CENTRAL OREGON CHILDREN
A child's development and well-being doesn't pause during a pandemic, and parents need support, education, and connection now more than ever. This is a perfect time to do a check-in on children’s health and development.

Healthy Beginnings is offering free online health, developmental, and behavioral screenings for children 0-5 years old in Central Oregon. Expert volunteers are ready to meet with families via Zoom or phone to discuss results and provide education, activities, and support, all from the comfort of home.

Contact Healthy Beginnings at 541-383-6357 or visit www.myhb.org to schedule a free screening.

RESOURCES FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
As the Central Oregon community continues to support the statewide “Stay Home, Save Lives” order, it is important to remember some people are in living situations with their abusers and feel more isolated during these times. Domestic violence often involves a varying degree of intimidation, criticism, insults, threats and control.

The number of domestic violence calls for service between March 16 and April 17 were compared between 2019 and 2020. The calls are coded as domestic violence calls when it is determined that the people cohabitate together or are immediate family members.

In Deschutes County, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (Sunriver Police and Black Butte Police were included) reported an increase in domestic violence calls of 20 percent, Bend Police reported an increase of 16 percent, and Redmond Police reported an increase of 45 percent. In Crook County, both the Sheriff’s Office and Prineville Police reported a decrease of 20 percent. In Jefferson County, the Sheriff’s Office had reported a decrease of 22 percent and Madras Police reported a decrease of 46 percent.

It is not surprising to see domestic violence calls for service lower during these times. Oftentimes victims cannot get away from their abuser to make a call for help or services.
If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the following:

• Saving Grace serves Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties: 541-389-7021 or www.saving-grace.org
• Oregon Safety Crisis Line: 888-235-5333
• Oregon Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence: www.ocadsv.org/find-help.
• National Domestic Violence hotline: 800-799-SAFE (7233)

REDMOND AIR CENTER SMOKEJUMPERS “JUMP” IN TO HELP DURING PANDEMIC
As Oregonians respond to stay at home orders to reduce the spread of COVID-19, smokejumpers at the Redmond Air Center have “jumped” into making cloth face covers to assist in the pandemic.
It began when one Redmond smokejumper, Dan Norskog, heard about local medical provider, St. Charles Health System, making a call out to the community to provide 10,000 masks for employees. Dan bought a sewing machine and began to answer the need.

It seems only right that a smokejumper would react to a request for sewing skills to assist their local community during a time of crisis. Smokejumpers, when not jumping from planes and fighting fire, are regularly repairing and creating the gear they need to do those tasks safely and effectively.

As smokejumpers thought about their sewing skills and the need for critical firefighting resources, particularly first responders, to have cloth face covers as the wildfire season begins, Dan’s fellow Redmond smokejumpers began making face covers to supply frontline federal firefighters. Currently, the Redmond smokejumpers have made over 400 cloth face covers and distributed 300 of them.

“We will keep making face covers as long as they are needed and being requested to reduce the spread of COVID-19 to our critical firefighting employees,” said Tony Johnson, Redmond Smokejumper Base Manager.

ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.
Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities   
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541-316-0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com.

Continued Physical Distancing Needed; Community Resource Map; Water, Sewer Relief for Bend Businesses; Daily Digest April 21, 2020

CONTINUED PHYSICAL DISTANCING NEEDED; COMMUNITY RESOURCE MAP; WATER, SEWER RELIEF FOR BEND BUSINESSES; DAILY DIGEST APRIL 21, 2020

News Release from Central Oregon Emergency Information Network

Downloadable file: Sixty-five confirmed cases means 650 potential cases. Courtesy: St. Charles Health System

ST. CHARLES URGES CONTINUED PHYSICAL DISTANCING 
St. Charles Health System updated the community on Monday about local efforts to help control the spread of the COVID-19 virus. St. Charles senior data scientist Michael Johnson said most data modeling scientists in the state agree that we have about a 10 percent detection rate for COVID-19. In Central Oregon, as of yesterday, there were 65 positive cases, which means there could be as many as 650 people who are (or who have been) infected and are circulating in the community. Many may not have any symptoms but can still be spreading the disease.

St. Charles leaders emphasized that the social distancing practices in the region have helped keep these numbers low. However, Johnson says, if we were to relax social distancing by just 25 percent, we would likely see a second surge that looked exactly like the first one and 16 to18 patients would be hospitalized within two weeks. If we were to relax social distancing by 50 percent, we could see as many as 60 beds filled In that time period. More details from Johnson are outlined in this video.

COMMUNITY RESOURCE MAP
Deschutes County and several local partners are working to reduce the spread of COVID-19 among vulnerable populations by offering a new map that shows the locations of hand-washing stations, public restrooms, free Wi-Fi hotspots and more.

You can view the online community resource map on www.centraloregonresources.org.
"We’re working proactively to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” said Molly Wells Darling, Deschutes County Behavioral Health Program Manager. ”By bringing this information together in one place, we hope to make it easier for residents to access these critical resources.”
Read more here.

CITY OF BEND OFFERS WATER AND SEWER RELIEF FOR BUSINESSES
Bend City Council approved COVID-19 Crisis Assistance Program - water and sewer bill relief funds to help businesses struggling financially due to COVID-19.

The City of Bend is accepting online applications for commercial water and sewer bill assistance to help ease the financial burden to local businesses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The new Crisis Assistance Program for businesses offers a maximum of $500 per request, and will remain in effect during the local declared state of emergency or until the $25,000 in Water funds and $25,000 in Sewer funds have been exhausted. If federal and/or state assistance programs are established to provide water and sewer bill relief to businesses, this program will be modified accordingly.

 The online application and a list of Frequently Asked Questions are available on www.bendoregon.gov/bizresources.

“STAY HEALTHY” STREETS IN BEND
The City of Bend is enhancing its Neighborhood Greenways network to provide opportunities for people in Bend to get outside and exercise by walking and biking in neighborhoods while maintaining the physical distance required to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The City is establishing temporary street restrictions to through-traffic on certain streets to create “Stay Healthy” streets. Today and tomorrow, crews will be installing temporary traffic control signs to reduce traffic speed and volume on the neighborhood street routes. The routes provide a place to get outside and to connect to trails, parks and natural areas. The City is seeking voluntary compliance from drivers to help create safe and comfortable routes for families to use.
Areas chosen already have low traffic volumes and slower speeds. Routes include:

• NW 15th Street
• NE 6th Street
• SE Roosevelt Avenue
• SE Centennial Street and Paiute Way
• NW Hartford Avenues

Local traffic will be allowed on the routes and adjacent homeowners can still park on streets by their homes. Existing accesses will be maintained.
See maps and get more information at www.bendoregon.gov/stayhealthystreets. 

ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.
Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541-316-0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH

News Release from Central Oregon Emergency Information Network

Downloadable file: April_Sidewalk_Art.jpg

Every April is Child Abuse Prevention Month and local law enforcement and child abuse prevention organizaions say it’s critical to recognize this year because of the impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having on families. The Oregon Department of Human Services released data indicating that calls to the child abuse hotline have dropped 70 percent since the mandated closure of K-12 schools. In Central Oregon, local law enforcement agencies have also acknowledged the decline in reporting of child abuse.
According to the KIDS Center, this decline in reports is attributed to children’s lack of daily contact with teachers, counselors, and school staff members, who are mandatory reporters of abuse and neglect. Many cases are likely going unrecognized and therefore unreported. Since physical distancing mandates have been in effect, children are less likely to be seen by others, outside of their immediate family.
“We know that as the pandemic continues to evolve, and as added personal, emotional, and financial stress and uncertainty mounts for families, it is only a matter of time until the real impact to children becomes known and reports of abuse and neglect begin to skyrocket,” said Gil Levy, KIDS Center executive director.
If you suspect abuse or neglect, please call the Department of Human Services or your local law enforcement agency to make a report.
During these unprecedented times, stress is affecting families by mass unemployment, food insecurity, and illness. When there is increased stress in a household, there is an increased risk of abuse on children. 
In the Central Oregon area, we have resources available to us such as the KIDS Center and MountainStar Family Relief Nursery. If you or someone you know needs resources:

• https://mtstar.org/ 
• https://kidscenter.org/blog/ 
• https://kidscenter.org/blue-ribbon-campaign/

ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.
Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities  
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541.316.0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com.

Contact Info:
Contact: JIC Media Line - 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, 541-316-0087
KIDS Center: Robin Antonson rantonson@kidscenter.org

One-Way Route on Popular Deschutes River Trail; Takeout Food Safety; Filing for Unemployment; Daily Digest April 15, 2020

One-Way Route on Popular Deschutes River Trail; Takeout Food Safety; Filing for Unemployment; Daily Digest April 15, 2020

BEND PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT DESIGNATES ONE-WAY ROUTE ON POPULAR TRAIL
To support the public with opportunities to get outside and recreate on trails while maintaining appropriate distancing, the Bend Park and Recreation District is implementing a temporary rule change to the popular South Canyon section of the Deschutes River Trail.

The change designates one of the most heavily used stretches of the river trail as a one-way route and prohibits the use of bikes on that section. The change for the section of the Deschutes River Trail is from Farewell Bend Park and Riverbend Park to the South Canyon Bridge.

The temporary rules changes are also being considered for other high use trail sections. Up-to-date information for any additional changes at specific park and trail locations will be provided on the district’s website and signs in parks.

For more information, visit bendparksandrec.org.

OHA ADDRESSES TAKEOUT FOOD SAFETY 
Oregon Health Authority recently released the following Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 and Food Safety, including questions about takeout and delivery.

Is COVID-19 a concern with takeout food?
The following agencies are not aware of any reports that suggest COVID-19 transmission by food or food packaging: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) or U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Current evidence shows the largest risk of COVID-19 transmission is being around people who have symptoms. To a lesser extent, there is a risk of transmission from being around people who are infected but are not showing symptoms. Food businesses should follow employee health policies and health department recommendations to keep these people at home.    

                        

What are the risks from takeout or drive-through food?
There is no current suggestion that takeout or drive-through meals will increase illness.
This food option is a good risk management choice, especially for high-risk and elderly groups. This option helps keep social distancing and reduces the number of touch points.
                              
Can I get COVID-19 from touching food or packaging exposed to COVID-19?
The risk of transfer of viruses is very low, based on current research. To further minimize risk, wash hands or use hand sanitizer after handling food packaging.
                              
What are the risks of food delivered to home?
Similar to takeout, food delivery: Helps keep social distancing and reduces touch points between preparation and serving food. Many delivery programs have set up no touch or no interaction options. This further reduces risk.                      

     

What happens in your body if you do ingest the novel COVID-19 through food?
If you eat food contaminated with the novel coronavirus, your stomach acid should inactivate the virus. Even if your stomach acid did not, there is no evidence that this virus can cause an infection through the gastrointestinal tract. Wash hands with soap and water before meals to minimize the risk of getting foodborne illnesses, in general.  

             

FILING FOR UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
The State of Oregon Employment Department (OED) has received a record number of initial claims for unemployment benefits. It is a time of great uncertainty and anxiety for OED customers who have suddenly become laid off and need unemployment benefits. When so many people call simultaneously and repeatedly, it jams the phone system and fewer people can get through to someone for help.

For those having trouble getting through OED’s phone system, they will take care of a past week’s claim with the initial filing. OED recommends filing initial claims online, if possible.

Those who have filed can check the status of their claim online once a day. Those who have completed a claim, should keep their confirmation number and continue to claim each week.

For those denied a claim because they are self-employed, OED is working to incorporate newly received guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor into its claims system to bring self-employed and 1099 contract workers into the benefits system. Visit the OED COVID-19 page for updates.

OED has implemented the Pandemic Unemployment Compensation portion of the CARES Act. This includes the $600 in additional benefits for those already eligible for regular unemployment benefits. The CARES Act benefits are available for those eligible from March 29, 2020, through the week ending July 25, 2020. Those filing for benefits through OED do not need to do anything to get the additional CARES Act benefits. They will be sent each week as a separate payment from regular benefits, so long as weekly claims filings are submitted for the weeks someone is out of work and eligible for benefits.

HOW CENTRAL OREGON PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENTS INVESTIGATE COVID-19
Central Oregon Public Health Departments investigate every case of COVID-19 in Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson counties. The case investigation process includes interviewing cases to determine how they may have been exposed to COVID-19 and to learn who they had close contact with. To determine close contacts, a public health nurse works with the patient to look back on their interactions back to 48 hours before symptoms began. Individuals are considered close contacts if they spent 1 or more hours within 6 ft of a case during that period. This is defined by CDC and OHA.

The public health nurse then notifies the close contacts that they were exposed to COVID-19 and provides education about staying home for 14 days, signs and symptoms to watch for and what to do if they become symptomatic.

By investigating every case, public health departments are helping ensure that:

• Those that are ill are at home isolating, which helps prevent disease spread in our community. 
• Close contacts know the signs and symptoms to watch for and what to do if they become symptomatic.
• People are staying home as much as possible (quarantine).
• Disease transmission is prevented, which helps flatten the curve and save lives.

ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES 

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.

Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities   
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541.316.0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com.