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📰 Redmond police, state investigating claims by former, current staff against assisted living facility

📰 Redmond police, state investigating claims by former, current staff against assisted living facility

Issue #085

29 Feb

We have units and RV Parking Available

Be aware Gmail will sometimes ‘clip’ the newsletter, but you can always:

👇

In this Issue of C.O. Local BUZZ…

🤔Local Trivia

🌄 Bend, OR Weather

📰 Local News - What’s a Happening?

📰 Redmond police, state investigating claims by former, current staff against assisted living facility

📰 Deschutes County Considers More Oversight of Short Term Rentals

🏛️👂Bend city councilors get an earful from public on planned transportation fee

🚧Roundabout construction to begin in Sisters

🚨⛑️Rollover Crash on Alfalfa Market Road Prompts Investigation

🔦 Business Spotlight: Revitalize Your Health at Epic Energy Centers: Central Oregon's Gateway to Natural Healing

😁 MEME of the Day

📅 Lots of Events

*Apparently yesterday’s trivia question was incorrect, MT Jefferson, as part of Jefferson County and a part of “Central Oregon” would be the correct answer of the tallest peak in Central Oregon. Reaching an elevation of 10,497 feet*

Which Central Oregon city was originally named "Dogwood"?

A) Bend

B) Sisters

C) Redmond

D) Prineville

👇Find the Answer at the end of the Newletter👇

BEND

Northern Oregon Cascades

Thursday

Snow and rain in the morning, then snow showers in the afternoon. Areas of blowing snow in the morning, then patchy blowing snow in the afternoon. Snow may be heavy at times. Visibility one quarter mile or less at times. Snow level 2000 feet. Snow accumulation of 5 to 11 inches. Pass winds southwest 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. Chance of precipitation near 100 percent. Rainfall amounts a half of an inch to one inch.

Thursday Night

Snow showers. Patchy blowing snow. Blustery. Pass winds southwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. Chance of snow near 100 percent.

Friday

Patchy blowing snow in the morning. Snow showers. Pass winds south 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. Chance of snow near 100 percent.

Friday Night

Snow showers. Chance of snow near 100 percent.

Saturday

Snow showers. Chance of snow 90 percent.

Saturday Night

Snow showers likely. Chance of snow 70 percent.

Sunday

Snow showers. Chance of snow 90 percent.

Sunday Night

Snow showers likely. Chance of snow 70 percent.

Monday

Snow with a slight chance of rain. Snow level 2000 feet. Chance of precipitation 90 percent.

Monday Night

Snow and rain likely. Snow level 2500 feet. Chance of precipitation 70 percent.

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Redmond police, state investigating claims by former, current staff against assisted living facility

REDMOND, Ore (KTVZ) -- A 108-unit residential care facility in Redmond is being investigated by local police and the state. More than two-dozen current and former employees of Juniper Canyon Living have communicated with NewsChannel 21 about concerns.

The facility is funded in part with state grants amounting to $14,000 per patient per month. Residents also pay a monthly fee.

Staff complaints include hostile work environment, bullying, sexual harassment, violation of residence rights, putting medication in the residents' food and drink, questionable hospice deaths, intoxication in the workplace, narcotic theft, falsification of medical records, expired staff licenses, wrongful termination, and retaliation.

Former caregiver for JCL, Harlie Day, said, "It -- it really makes me sad, I just want them to be happy and healthy and thrive. Even though they have behavioral and mental health problems, they are still people. They still need love and compassion and rights."

Another former employee who wanted to protect their identity said patient rights are violated when they're unknowingly given pills in food: "It's absolutely illegal. You cannot use psychoactive medication to treat and control behaviors."

Many of the other 30 employees who wanted to speak insisted on remaining anonymous due to widespread fears of retaliation among current staff.

This week, they say, in response to the NewsChannel 21 investigation, management sent a company-wide email to employees. It reminds workers of a policy stating media requests are to be handled by the administer or someone he designates.

A former employee said, “There's probably 15-20 of us that stood up, and all that got us was unemployed. He let me go after I wouldn't sign the confidentiality agreement. Care staff that have stood up against the RCC’s before have been physically assaulted.”

Former caregiver Harlie Day also raised concern about the sudden death of a hospice patient because of improper morphine dosage: “There was a resident who overdosed by medication, and they passed away from it.”

At least three current staff members tell us the state agency Adult Protective Services was at the Juniper Canyon facility on Thursday of last week, along with multiple unmarked law enforcement vehicles. On Friday, the employees say, the Oregon Department of Human Services was on site again.

Day recalled, “I was concerned why they were there, because of the residents' safety and the residents' rights. APS was also looking at documents, to make sure that everything was being documented right.”

Redmond Police have confirmed to NewsChannel 21 they have opened an investigation into the treatment center, although they said they couldn't provide specifics.

The interim administrator, Austin Evans, in regard to the investigation said he was unable to comment on active investigations and internal HR policies.

The post Redmond police, state investigating claims by former, current staff against assisted living facility appeared first on KTVZ .

Deschutes County Considers More Oversight of Short Term Rentals

Proposed program that would increase regulation and oversight with short-term rentals outside of the Urban Growth Boundary

Deschutes County is mulling over stricter rules for short-term rentals (STRs) outside urban areas. The plan aims to boost safety and cut risks but may strain county resources. Staff proposed a business license program for better oversight, with estimated startup costs between $500,000 to $1 million. Concerns over enforcement, funding, and workload were raised by officials, leading to a decision to revisit the issue later.

For the full story by Julianna LaFollette The Source

Bend city councilors get an earful from public on planned transportation fee

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Criticism, concerns and questions were on the menu as expected Monday afternoon at the first of two Bend City Council listening sessions in which several members of the public raised their objections to a transportation fee the city plans to add to water-sewer utility bills this summer.

As you’d expect, the session at Bend City Hall brought out foes of adding to the tax and fee burdens residents already face amid inflation and other issues. But while some said the numbers are questionable, others said it’s more a matter of trust, or lack thereof.

And while it may well become a hotter-button issue as the election year rolls on and the new fee takes effect, the scheduled two-hour session only lasted about an hour, including staff presentation and question time, as in person and via-Zoom testimony (limited to two minutes each) only lasted about a half-hour.

First, the city presented a brief video to the in-person and YouTube audience, including Mayor Melanie Kebler and city Transportation and Mobility Director David Abbas, who said the city has $800 million worth of roads and that preventative maintenance extends their life by some 50%.

City Councilor Mike Riley brought up “the elephant in the room” – why not just pay for upkeep with the city’s existing revenue?

“Unfortunately, the funding we’ve relied on is no longer keeping up, and costs are increasing,” Riley said, noting that gas tax revenue is “predicted to flatten or drop.”

Standing at the new Ninth Street and Wilson Avenue roundabout, Riley said the voter-approved GO (General Obligation) Bond “only funds new improvements. The transportation fee will give us the funding we need to take care of these investments.”

Plenty of details about the proposed fee structure and other information are on the city's web page.

The city presented some history that led to this proposed, phased-in fee, which city councilors rejected enacting by a 4-3 vote in 2009, also turning down a similar recommendation in 2011. In 2016, Bend voters resoundingly rejected a gas tax proposal, by a to-1 ratio.

The first speaker was 24-year Bend resident Mike Walker, who spends much time digging into the numbers and writing letters to the paper and others about how he doesn’t buy the city’s stats.

Walker said he studied eight years of city financial records and found that while core duties only grew 4% a year, the city still was able to improve its “pavement condition index” (the PCI grade of road quality) from 70-76. And he said state fund allotments beat the city forecast.

Other speakers raised other, familiar issues. “Rich” said a fee is “a euphemism for a tax which voters have turned down,” so the city is “trying a workaround, to pull the proverbial wool over our eyes. I suggest you ask the voters again if they want this tax.”

Another speaker, James, said while he’s in favor of such fees, it’s not like the bond measure, which had a list of specific project so voters knew where the funds would go. “I’m in general in favor, but have a lot of questions.””

Robin said this “opens the door to all sorts of fees,” and that the people being asked “always have trouble making ends meet” as well. He said the city first should demonstrate how its reducing costs and getting more efficient.

A woman who owns a “very tiny” two-person business said they were hit hard by the pandemic and that she was “shocked” when she learned how large the new fee would be.

“Bend should be promoting small businesses, not trying to kill us,” she said.

Bill called the fee “one of the cheapest political moves,” taken “just because you can. I’m not sure you even need this money.”

Rick suggested a two-year transportation fee, reporting quarterly on how the money is spent – and then, armed with more data, “go back to voters for a permanent fee.”

Another speaker said it appeared the money was needed primarily for bike infrastructure, as the city has “committees filled with bike advocates."

“Protected, buffered bike lanes are completely unnecessary – I wouldn’t ride them,” he said, then got more pointed: “Four of you are up for re-election. I think the storm is coming your way.”

The owner of two small businesses, trying to open a third, said he was “torn on this idea.”

“I support the idea,” he said. “I just don’t know how much of my money over time will be taken away from me to pay for it. … By death of a thousand cuts, you are killing small business. You spend a lot of time explaining why it’s a fee. Come on – it’s a fee because you can get it passed without a vote.”

While billed as a listening session – the second is Thursday morning at 9:30 a.m. – City Manager Eric King, Kebler and others did try to provide more info after the last people testified.

Kebler said they spent a lot of time on the process and specifics, and that “previous councils decided to kick the can down the road.”

“We’re not doing it because we can,” she said. “The Transportation System Plan, which a large group of citizens worked on, recognized this fee was an integral part of planning for our transportation future.”

Riley said, “Transportation is a core city service we use every day. I see it on a par with water and sewer. We don’t go out to voters on every sewer and water fee (change) – it doesn’t work.” And like Kebler, he said it was “a tough decision that should have been made long ago.”

Councilor Barb Campbell said after years spent with ODOT on area transportation bodies, "You have the fundamental truth that every class of vehicle gets more efficient every year," so the amount of gas tax revenue for the amount of miles driven is going down.

The post ‘I think the storm is coming your way’: Bend city councilors get an earful from public on planned transportation fee appeared first on KTVZ .

Roundabout construction to begin in Sisters

Construction for the Highway 20 and Locust Street roundabout begins in March. The Sisters Elementary School fence will be relocated first, followed by utility adjustments. The roundabout aims to slow down eastbound traffic. Some of the school's tennis courts will be used for construction. North Locust Street will be closed until Memorial Day weekend. Project completion expected in September 2024. ODOT contributes $5 million; city and county also funding.

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) will host a drop-in open house on Monday, March 4, between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. at the Sisters Elementary School gym, 611 E. Cascade Ave. where the public can learn more about the project and the impact of construction.

Weekly Road and Traffic Report for the Week of February 26 - March 3 Bend

Weekly Road Construction Update Week of February 25 to March 2 Deschutes County

Rollover Crash on Alfalfa Market Road Prompts Investigation

In the early hours of February 28, 2024, a rollover crash on Alfalfa Market Road, near mile post 6, shook the otherwise tranquil stretch of highway. The incident, which occurred around 3:00 am, drew swift response from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office following a cell phone automatic crash notification.

Upon arrival at the scene, deputies discovered a 2004 Ford F-350 pickup truck, having evidently somersaulted several times while traveling eastbound. The aftermath of the crash was starkly evident, with the vehicle mangled and sprawled across the roadway. Amidst the wreckage, a male passenger emerged, fortunately suffering only minor injuries from the ordeal.

However, the situation was far graver for the driver, identified as 28-year-old Juan Carlos Linares, who was tragically trapped within the crumpled confines of the vehicle. Linares bore the brunt of the impact, sustaining major injuries as a result of the violent collision.

The response to the scene was comprehensive, with Bend Fire and Rescue, alongside Alfalfa Fire, mobilizing swiftly. Air Link, the medical helicopter service, was also called into action to expedite the transportation of Linares to St. Charles Bend for urgent medical attention. Fire personnel worked tirelessly to extricate him from the wreckage, a testament to their unwavering dedication in the face of adversity.

As the investigation unfolded, deputies determined that alcohol played a significant role in the unfolding tragedy. The revelation underscores the dangers of driving under the influence and serves as a sobering reminder of the potentially devastating consequences of such actions.

At present, the investigation remains ongoing, with authorities diligently piecing together the events leading up to the crash. Further details are expected to emerge as the inquiry progresses, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident.

Epic Energy Centers - Bend (Kelley & Rich Salber

Revitalize Your Health at Epic Energy Centers: Central Oregon's Gateway to Natural Healing

Attention Central Oregon community members!

Have you been searching for a holistic approach to enhance your overall well-being and vitality? Look no further than Epic Energy Centers, a hidden gem in Bend dedicated to promoting optimal health for individuals of all backgrounds. Founded by the dynamic duo of Rich and Kelley Salber, Epic Energy Centers is more than just a business - it's a labor of love aimed at helping you thrive physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Located at 205 NW Franklin Ave, Bend, Oregon, Epic Energy Centers opened its doors on February 1st, 2024, offering a unique Energy Enhancement System featuring Bio-scalar technology developed by Dr. Sandra Rose Michaels. This innovative system creates an environment that optimizes cellular energy levels, leading to increased energy, mental clarity, immune function, and cell regeneration. By embracing the power of integrative biophysics, Epic Energy Centers provides a simple yet profoundly effective way to enhance your health and well-being.

What sets Epic Energy Centers apart is their use of scalar technology to realign the body's electrical matrix, helping you reach your maximum potential by recharging your overall energy levels. The belief that fully charged cells have the ability to heal themselves is at the core of their philosophy, promoting natural healing and vitality. In addition to the Energy Enhancement System, Epic Energy Centers offers a far infrared sauna that complements the energy sessions by aiding in detoxification, providing a comprehensive approach to wellness.

Rich and Kelley Salber are not just business owners but active members of the Central Oregon community who are deeply committed to promoting health and wellness for individuals from all walks of life. Their passion for outdoor activities like mountain biking and skiing is reflected in their dedication to helping others thrive. Kelley's involvement in the Dry Canyon Arts Association showcases her commitment to serving the community through her artistic pursuits, further highlighting the couple's holistic approach to well-being.

Community involvement is a cornerstone of Epic Energy Centers' mission, with Rich and Kelley eager to build partnerships with local businesses, practitioners, and non-profits that share their commitment to improving the well-being of Central Oregon residents. By collaborating with like-minded organizations and individuals, they aim to create a network of support focused on enhancing the health and vitality of the community.

Looking towards the future, Epic Energy Centers has ambitious plans to expand its reach within the community and strengthen its partnerships with local organizations dedicated to promoting health and wellness. By continuing to build connections and alliances with like-minded businesses and practitioners, Rich and Kelley envision a future where healthy individuals serve as catalysts for positive change within their communities.

If you're ready to experience the transformative effects of the Energy Enhancement System or explore the benefits of the far infrared sauna at Epic Energy Centers, Kelley Salber is your go-to contact person. Reach out to her at (541) 449-9829 or visit EpicEnergyCenters.com for more information about their services and offerings. Whether you're looking to boost your energy levels, improve your immune function, or simply enhance your overall well-being, Epic Energy Centers offers a unique approach to holistic health that aligns with the vibrant spirit of Central Oregon's community.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your health and well-being with Epic Energy Centers - where your journey to optimal vitality begins!

Address: 205 NW Franklin Ave Bend, OR Get Directions

Phone: 541-449-9829

Upcoming Events

What’s Up Central Oregon

PUP CRAWL 2024 in March!

Enjoy local pubs around Bend and support HSCO's programs and services that serve people and animals in our community. Visit 14 local brew pubs with your friends and canine companion(s) and enjoy good vibes throughout March on the weekends.

HSCO’s Pup Crawl includes a logo pint glass and beverage of choice. 100% of the money raised each night benefits the animals thanks to our sponsors Bend Studio, Bend Pet Express and host brew pubs. Purchase during any Pup Crawl night.

• Logo Pint Glass & One Beverage $15

• Logo Glass & 1 Beverage at 3 different Pup Crawl Nights $30

• Logo Beanie hat $20

Enjoy the evening drinking and eating amongst friends, and meet HSCO staff to learn more about what we do and how you can help the animals in our community.

Join us at any or all of the nights. 4:30 to 7:00 pm each night!