Millie has been found by a volunteer citizen searching the area at 1:10 AM this morning, and is being connected with family. Clark County Sheriff wants to thank those who assisted in the search, including Battle Ground Police Department, Clark County Search and Rescue, Columbia County Search and Rescue, and unaffiliated citizen volunteers.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Clark County Sheriff's Office is asking for public assistance in locating a missing elderly woman from the Hockinson area.  Millie is a white female, 84 years old, 5'0 tall, 100 lbs, gray hair, hazel eyes, wearing eyeglasses.  She was last see around 2 PM today (5/22/2025) and last known to be wearing a lime green shirt and blue jeans.  She may forget her name and be confused.  If found, please call 911.

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) has taken both suspects into custody in connection with the shooting incident that occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 17, 2025.

On May 20, BCSO Detectives located and arrested 20-year-old Julia Dell Yepez, of Salem. This evening, May 22, 20-year-old Alexa Montano Corral, of Salem, has also been taken into custody. Both women are being held in connection with multiple charges stemming from the incident.

Investigators believe the suspects used the Chispa dating app to lure the victim into meeting with the intent of stealing from him. Yepez and Corral are also suspects in a nearby county involving similar criminal activity.

If you have had contact with either of these individuals for the sake of online dating please contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov or submit tips anonymously by calling 541-573-8477 (TIPS).

The male victim involved in the May 17 incident is recovering from non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.

As previously reported, at approximately 5:30 a.m. on May 17, the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call from a Corvallis resident in the area of Highway 99W and Lakeside Drive, reporting that someone had been shot in a vehicle near that location.

Initial reports indicated that a short Hispanic female with long hair and wearing a long-sleeve black shirt shot a male in the vehicle. She was last seen fleeing the scene on foot with another Hispanic female, heading south of Lakeside Drive and north of the City of Monroe. Investigators now believe both suspects initially left the area following the incident.

BCSO urges the public to exercise caution when meeting individuals from dating apps—always meet in public and never isolate yourself until you are certain of the other person’s intentions.

BCSO would like to thank the Salem Police Department, Corvallis Police Department, Philomath Police Department, Corvallis Fire Department, Linn County Sheriff’s Office, and US Marshal’s Office for their assistance with this ongoing investigation.

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Gresham, Ore.— A third youth has been arrested in connection with a Gresham drive-by shooting.   Police responded to a report of a shooting in the 3500 block of SE Richey Rd in the early hours of May 13^th.  At the scene, officers found shell casings in the street and a nearby home that had been struck by gunfire; however, none of the occupants of the home were injured.

A short time later, Jeffrey Daniel arrived at a local hospital in a private vehicle.  Daniel was in extremely critical condition when he arrived at the hospital.  The vehicle Daniel arrived in was found to have been stolen and two youth who arrived with him were detained. 

Following an investigation, detectives determined Daniel and three juveniles, including the two detained at the hospital, had committed the drive-by shooting on Richey Rd.  During the shooting, gunfire from another occupant of the car struck Daniel, fatally injuring him.  The two youth detained at the hospital were arrested and charged with Attempted Murder and other crimes.

Detectives tracked the third shooting suspect to a residence in northeast Portland.  On Tuesday afternoon, investigators with the Major Crimes Team, assisted by the Portland Police Bureau Special Emergency Reaction Team, served a warrant and took the final suspect into custody. 

Despite the best efforts of hospital staff, Daniel died of his injuries on the afternoon of May 17^th.  With Daniel’s death, the three juvenile suspects, all 16-years-old, are now facing charges of Murder, Attempted Murder, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Conspiracy. 

The vehicle used in the shooting has been located. 

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Detective Huffman at ederick.Huffman@GreshamOregon.gov">Frederick.Huffman@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Snider at Tim.Snider@GreshamOregon.gov.

The Gresham Police Department would like to thank our law enforcement partners, including the Portland Police Bureau, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Port of Portland Police Department, Oregon State Police, and the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office for their assistance with this investigation. 

Update 5/22/25 5:10 pm

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office has concluded its investigations related to the April 23, 2025, incident.

The death investigation has been determined to be consistent with suicide. There is no evidence of foul play.

A separate investigation into allegations of sex offenses involving a juvenile found probable cause that Charles Gardiner committed the crimes of Sexual Misconduct with a Minor in the First Degree, Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and Possession of Depictions of a Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct. Investigators believe the inappropriate relationship had been ongoing for approximately six to nine months.

At this time, there is no evidence to suggest there are additional victims.

Due to Gardiner’s death, the case is being closed by exceptional clearance. To protect the privacy and well-being of the juvenile victim, no further details will be released.

Update 5/1/2025 2:00pm

The Clark County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the death and the circumstances regarding this incident. In the initial release, it was believed that deputies responded to a residential burglary. The caller had discovered Gardiner in the residence and got into a physical altercation with him before he fled. There is no indication that there was a residential burglary. The Sheriff's Office has split the incident into two investigations, the death investigation and a criminal investigation.

Evidence from the death investigation involving Gardiner is consistent with a suicide. 

The Sheriff's Office has opened a criminal investigation into several sex offenses believed to have been committed by Gardiner against a juvenile victim. 

Due to the sensitive nature of this investigation, additional details cannot be released at this time.

Update 4/25/2025 9:15am

The Clark County Sheriff's Office can confirm that the deceased person in this incident is Charles Gardiner, the Interim Chief of the Cowlitz Tribal Public Safety Department.

The Clark County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Unit is actively investigating this case, including the circumstances of why Gardiner was in the residence.

Due to the nature of this investigation, additional details cannot be released at this time. 

Additional updates will be released when more information is available.

On April 23^rd, at around 9:43 p.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies responded to a report of an occupied residential burglary in the 9000 block of NE 79^th Street in Northeast Vancouver. The caller reported a male subject inside the residence. The male subject fled the residence on foot.

As deputies and other law enforcement officers searched the area, they located a vehicle with a deceased person inside matching the subject’s description. Evidence suggests the individual died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The CCSO Major Crimes Unit is investigating the incident.

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in an Executive & Board Business Meeting on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at the Parkrose District Office, located at 10636 NE Prescott St., Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:00pm.

Guests and members of the public may attend in-person or virtually.  

Virtual Link - Please click this URL to join: https://zoom.us/j/94961285856 or join by phone: 1-253-215-8782 Webinar ID: 949-6128-5856

We encourage and welcome all members of our community to engage with our board. Please email questions@parkrose.k12.or.us or call 503.408.2100 to arrange for translation services at least 72 hours before this meeting. Closed captioning provided on zoom. Other appropriate auxiliary aids and services may be provided upon request and appropriate advance notice.

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Please join us for a short Retiree Recognition at 6:00pm to honor our dedicated Parkrose Retirees! 

Agenda items include but are not limited to: Retiree Recognitions, Election results and recognitions, June LGBTQ+ Pride Month recognition, consent agenda, Student Representatives ASB report and Student school board experience evaluation,  Chair/Vice Chair discussion, funding update, personal device (cell phone) policy and graduation update.  

Electronic/Virtual Public Comment Protocol - If you wish to submit a public comment before, or during this Board Meeting please fill out this electronic public comment form before "Public Comments" on the agenda: https://forms.gle/5sUjRZjxJikqmqVg9. If you don’t submit your comment in time we will read it at the next board meeting.

In-Person Public Comment Protocol - Upon arrival at the meeting, please fill out an Intent-to-Speak card and hand it to the Board Assistant prior to "In-person Public Comment" on the agenda. You will have a 3 minute time limit.

Board Meeting Video Recordings - For those of you who cannot attend we will post a recording of the meeting on our website at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXajhxrPxMclOQ6J00JUszQ.

Questions welcomed, please email: questions@parkrose.k12.or.us or leave a voice message at 503-408-2114.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Tyler Shoop, age 15, a child in foster care who went missing from Oregon Health and Science University Hospital in Portland, Ore on May 21, 2025. Tyler Shoop (he/him) is believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Tyler Shoop and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see Tyler Shoop.

Tyler Shoop is suspected to be in Molalla, Oregon area.

Name: Tyler Shoop
Pronouns: he/him
Date of birth: March 3, 2010
Height: 5-feet-9 inches
Weight: 148 pounds
Hair: Blonde
Eye color: Blue Eyes
Other identifying information: Tyler has significant medical condition that requires hospitalization.  Tyler is also an enrolled member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma
Portland Police Bureau # 25-680264
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children # 2051678

Sometimes when a child is missing they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

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CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) continues to actively investigate the shooting incident that occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 17, 2025. Detectives have now identified the suspects involved and made one arrest.

On May 20, BCSO Detectives located and arrested 20-year-old Julia Dell Yepez, in Salem. Detectives are continuing to attempt to locate 20-year-old Alexa Montano Corral, who remains at large.

Yepez is currently in custody at the Benton County Jail, being held with $300,000 bail, charged with:

• Attempted Murder
• Assault I
• Menacing
• Unlawful Use of a Firearm
• Reckless Endangering
• Kidnapping II

Investigators believe the suspects used the Chispa dating app to lure the victim into meeting with the intent of stealing from him. Yepez and Corral are also suspects in a nearby county involving the same criminal activity.

If you have had contact with either of these individuals for the sake of online dating or know the whereabouts of Alexa Corral, please contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov or submit tips anonymously by calling 541-573-8477 (TIPS).

The male victim involved in the May 17 incident remains hospitalized as he recovers from a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

As previously reported, at approximately 5:30 a.m. on May 17, the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call from a Corvallis resident in the area of Highway 99W and Lakeside Drive, reporting that someone had been shot in a vehicle near that location.

Initial reports indicated that a short Hispanic female with long hair and wearing a long-sleeve black shirt shot a male in the vehicle. She was last seen fleeing the scene on foot with another Hispanic female, heading south of Lakeside Drive and north of the City of Monroe. Investigators now believe both suspects initially left the area following the incident.

BCSO urges the public to exercise caution when meeting individuals from dating apps—always meet in public and never isolate yourself until you are certain of the other person’s intentions.

Again, BCSO would like to thank the Corvallis Police Department, Philomath Police Department, Corvallis Fire Department, Linn County Sheriff’s Office, and US Marshal’s Office for their assistance with this ongoing investigation.

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TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST, Ore.—A special long-term partnership between the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) recreation staff and local law enforcement agencies helps to improve the safety, education and overall experience for people visiting Oregon’s state forests.

“Our number one priority is the safety of everyone who visits the forest,” said Tillamook County Sheriff’s Deputy Billy Cloud.  “The best way to improve safety is through education and every day we are talking with people helping them understand the rules and best practices to minimize risks and improve safety.”

The vast majority of people visiting the Tillamook State Forest will have an enjoyable time hiking, biking, camping or riding because of the work of ODF’s recreation staff.

“We work hard to build, maintain and improve our trials, campgrounds and other recreational areas to provide the safest, most enjoyable experiences possible,” said Joe Offer, ODF’s Recreation, Education and Interpretation Program Manager. “I believe we provide the best outdoor experience in Oregon for the most people—and all at a reasonable cost.”

The benefit of these efforts is evidenced by the relatively few problems that occur in Tillamook State Forest. The temperate rain forest is just 40 miles from Portland and draws large numbers of visitors throughout the year. Those visitors use off-highway vehicle (OHV), mountain bike, equestrian and hiking trails, as well as developed campgrounds and managed dispersed camping areas, to enjoy 364,000 acres of the state forest.

With that many visitors there are sometimes a few guests that cause problems.

“The most common incidents on the forest involve those under the influence of drugs or alcohol, but range from arguments over reservations, to parking issues or noise complaints,” said Offer.  “If our limited staff, which includes four full time, five seasonal, and 10 volunteer camp hosts, are not able to resolve and de-escalate a situation we contact the deputies. Our top priority is always the safety of our guests and staff.”

There are three Tillamook County deputies that work in the Tillamook State Forest thanks to a grant through Oregon State Parks. Those grant funds come from all-terrain vehicle (ATV) user permit sales and a percentage of gasoline tax money.  The county has applied for and received the grant for more than 25 years. Throughout the year, the deputies and ODF staff meet regularly to discuss and solve problems. One area always discussed is OHV safety.

“We spend a lot of time with the OHV folks,” said Cloud.  “There are three main things we look for and help people understand: helmet laws for those under 18, equipment requirements especially spark arrestors on OHVs, and current permits or safety cards.”

DOT-approved helmets are required for youth under age 18 for all ATVs.  ATVs on public lands must also have an adequate muffler to limit sound emissions to 99 dBA and spark arrestors to prevent wildfires.  Permits must be displayed on ATVs and operators need a current safety card.

“We do not want to write citations,” said Cloud.  “We do want compliance, so folks stay safe while they are out in the forest.  However, if someone is riding under the influence or commits another crime they will be arrested.”

ODF staff and deputies work together on other law enforcement issues including vandalism, illegal dumping, criminal activity, abandoned vehicles and non-recreational campers.

A safe and enjoyable visit is the top goal of ODF staff and the deputies but sometimes people do not realize the challenges they face when visiting the forest.

“My advice, and I can’t stress this enough, is use some common sense,” said Cloud.  “If you haven’t been hiking in a couple of years then don’t start off trying to hike a long 10-to-20 mile trail that you have never been on. And, no, just because you are tired doesn’t mean you can ask for a rescue helicopter to take you back to the parking lot.  True story, just this spring.”

The other common-sense issue some people fail to realize is their cell phones and other devices likely won’t have a connection in many areas of Oregon’s state forests.

“Most ODF staff vehicles have radios, and the deputies all have radios, so if you do need help be sure to contact one of us,” said Offer.

The good working relationship between Tillamook County Sherrif’s Office and the ODF staff is just one part of keeping state forests safe.

“All of our state forests combined cross the boundaries of 15 counties,” said Offer. “I want to personally thank all the law enforcement agencies and search and rescue teams we work with that help make Oregonians’ visits to their state forests as safe as possible.”

For more on state forest recreational opportunities see: Oregon Department of Forestry : Recreation, education & interpretation : Recreation, education & interpretation : State of Oregon

For more on riding ATVs on public land: Oregon Parks and Recreation : All-Terrain Vehicles In Oregon : Ride ATVs : State of Oregon

Washington County, Ore. 22 May 2025- On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 10:32 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 47, near milepost 22, in Washington County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Ford Econoline van, operated by Martin Santizo Santizo (22) of Gervais, crossed the centerline and sideswiped a southbound Dodge Ram 1500, operated by Francisco Javier Romero (27) of McMinnville. The collision caused the Dodge to roll and eject the operator.

The operator of the Dodge (Romero) was not wearing a seatbelt and was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford (Santizo Santizo) and passenger, Pedro Lucas Alonso (20) of Gervias, were reportedly uninjured.

The highway was impacted for approximately 10 hours during the on-scene investigation. Operator impairment is considered a primary cause of the crash.

Santizo Santizo was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, Reckless Driving, and Criminally Negligent Homicide and lodged in the Washington County Jail.

OSP was assisted by Forest Grove Fire, Washington County Sheriff's Office, Forest Grove Police Department, and ODOT.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

May 22, 2025

Dartmouth Crossing North Complete: 85 Affordable Homes Now Open in Tigard’s Growing Triangle District

REACH Community Development to Host Grand Opening Celebration on June 4

TIGARD, OR — REACH Community Development (REACH) has officially completed Dartmouth Crossing North, a new 85-unit affordable housing community in the heart of the Tigard Triangle. Located at SW Dartmouth & 68th Avenue, this development brings much-needed, energy-efficient family housing to one of the region’s most rapidly growing neighborhoods, just east of downtown Tigard and steps away from a future MAX light rail station.

The property is now open, with residents actively moving in and apartment leasing ongoing. REACH will host a Community Welcome & Grand Opening Celebration on Wednesday, June 4, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, featuring remarks from public officials, cultural entertainment, refreshments, and self-guided tours.

“Dartmouth Crossing North provides exactly what our region needs right now: more affordable housing with transit access and ample space for families to thrive,” said U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06). “I commend REACH for its continued leadership in building housing that centers both community and sustainability, and I will continue working in Congress to secure investments just like this one.”

The community, managed by REACH, includes a mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments.  Sixteen homes are reserved for households earning 50% of the area median income (AMI) with the remainder available to those earning up to 60% AMI.

Designed by Bora Architects and constructed by Colas Construction, Dartmouth Crossing North reflects deep community engagement and thoughtful community-driven design. Key amenities include a large community room, library nook, indoor gathering spaces, an outdoor courtyard with play areas, and a public plaza designed for festivals and neighborhood events. On-site resident services will be led by AYCO (African Youth & Community Organization), providing culturally specific support that promotes stability, connection, and well-being.

U.S. Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) has been supporting this development since REACH first acquired the site from a private developer. She helped secure federal funding to support planning for future public community space that would be open to the entire community.

“When I met with REACH leadership at the start of this process, they had a lot to show me - an empty lot,” said Rep. Suzanne Bonamici. “I was inspired by their vision of fostering community and pairing affordable housing with support for neighborhood resources. That lot in Tigard is now the site of Dartmouth Crossing North. Thank you to REACH for connecting communities to safe and stable affordable housing. I am grateful to have secured federal funding for this project and look forward to seeing the families who live here thrive.”

For new resident Malisa, the impact is personal. “Because it’s affordable, I can finally save money to invest and grow my business,” she shared. In her previous apartment, rent consumed her focus. Now, she feels energized by the natural light, design potential, and the welcoming environment for her and her daughter. “I feel the vibe again and more energy,” she said. Her daughter is “super excited” to have her own room, and Melissa is looking forward to community events and enjoying the courtyard. “It’s amazing inside. I love the library nook and the sense of peace in this place.”

Situated in a high-amenity area with access to jobs, schools, retail, and Portland Community College, Dartmouth Crossing North is designed to be more than just housing—it’s a foundation for long-term opportunity and connection.

“Dartmouth Crossing North reflects REACH’s commitment to developing housing that’s affordable, sustainable, and deeply rooted in community,” said Margaret Salazar, CEO of REACH. “We’re thrilled to welcome families home and expand our work in Tigard and Washington County.”

The building is Earth Advantage-certified, featuring a hybrid heat pump water heating system that eliminates natural gas use. The site includes both public and private plazas and a festival-friendly woonerf street, creating vibrant, inclusive spaces for neighbors to gather.

"The grand opening of Dartmouth Crossing North is yet another example of what we can all achieve when we work together," said Washington County Chair Kathryn Harrington. “This brand-new and much-needed affordable housing community would not have been possible without public-private collaboration, a partnership that is essential to providing stability and opportunities to our county's families."

“This development sets a new standard for affordable housing in Tigard,” said Tigard Mayor Heidi Lueb. “It brings families closer to opportunity—close to downtown, and the public spaces we need for a thriving neighborhood.”

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About REACH Community Development

REACH creates opportunities for all people to thrive by developing and promoting equitable access to quality, affordable homes, supportive services, and community. REACH envisions a socially just world where there is a universal right to housing with all people living in safe, vibrant, and healthy communities. Learn more at reachcdc.org. 

Over the past several months, LCPD Officers have conducted investigations involving Child Luring crimes. During these investigations, officers posed as underage children on various online social media platforms and were contacted by two separate adult men. These men then initiated sexually inappropriate conversations and sent sexually explicit photographs to these accounts, which they believed to be operated by juveniles in Lincoln County. The following arrests were made as a result of these investigations:

On May 14, 2025, Robert “Robbie” Powell, age 25 of Sheridan, was arrested after messaging multiple decoy accounts and initiating sexually inappropriate conversations. Powell was charged with Luring a Minor, and he was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail, where he remains.

On May 21, 2025, Ravi Joseph Grant Bemis, age 36, was arrested after messaging multiple decoy accounts, initiating sexually inappropriate conversations, and attempting to meet with a child for sex in Lincoln City. Bemis is from Lincoln City but currently resides in Sequim, WA. Bemis was charged with Luring a Minor x2 and Online Sexual Corruption of a Child 2^nd Degree. He is currently lodged at the Clallam County Jail in Washington while he awaits extradition to Oregon.

Investigators believe there may be more victims and urge anyone with relevant information to call the Lincoln City Police Department at (541) 994-3636 and request to leave a message for Officer Z. Lane.

The Lincoln City Police Department would like to express our thanks to the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office and the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office (WA) for their assistance in these investigations.

The Lincoln City Police wants to encourage parents to monitor their children's social media activity and discuss with them the possible dangers of communicating with strangers online. These investigations are conducted in a continuing effort to protect our children from predators who target children for sexual exploitation and to reduce crime and further enhance the safety of our community.

Submitted by:  Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn

It is a profound honor to reflect on Memorial Day, where memory and mission converge. This day is not one of celebration. It is a day of solemn remembrance — when our nation pauses to reflect on the profound cost of the freedoms and way of life we each hold so dear.

Behind every headstone and memorial etched with the names of our fallen service members are lives lived with deep purpose and conviction — and defined by courage and sacrifice: the young Marine who never returned home, the soldier who died to save his fellow troops, the sailor whose name is known only to God, the airman whose remains are still missing in action.

Behind each of them, a family lives with a permanent absence — a parent’s grief, a spouse’s broken heart, a sibling’s pride, a child’s aching questions.

As we honor the fallen, we must also speak of those whose fates remain unknown — those still missing in action. For their families, there has been no return, no final goodbye, no folded flag. Only a silence that spans generations — filled with questions, memories, and the hope that one day, answers may come.

More than 81,000 American service members remain unaccounted for from conflicts dating back to World War II. Among them are hundreds of Oregonians whose names are etched into monuments and hearts, even as time marches forward.

Commander William B. Ault of Enterprise, Oregon, led a daring assault during the Battle of the Coral Sea in May 1942. After striking enemy carriers, his final radio message was: "O.K. So long, people. We put a 1,000-pound hit on the flat top." He and his radioman were never seen again. For his heroism, he was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross, and the USS Ault and Ault Field bear his name.

Private First Class Dale Warren Ross of Ashland, Oregon, went missing during combat on Guadalcanal in 1943. Seventy-six years later, his remains were discovered and identified, finally bringing closure to his family.

Staff Sergeant George Edward Davies of Portland, Oregon, was shot down over Romania in 1943. His remains were identified and laid to rest with full military honors in June 2024 — over 80 years later.

Each identification made, each name returned to a loved one, is a sacred act. It reminds us that the cost of war extends far beyond the battlefield, affecting families and communities for generations.

This year marks a profound milestone: the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II — a war that demanded extraordinary sacrifice from more than 152,000 Oregonians. Tyranny was defeated, but freedom came at a heavy cost. The generation that answered that call helped liberate the world and laid the foundation for a more just and inclusive America — one we are still striving to fully realize.

This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, created in 1945 to serve returning WWII veterans. Born out of war, ODVA was founded on the principle that “equity, justice and a simple duty” should be recognized for those who "brought us victory and peace." That mission continues today.

Let us remember Oregon’s deep and personal sacrifices:

• One Oregonian died in the Civil War.
• Sixty-five were lost in the Spanish-American War.
• 1,030 in World War I.
• 3,757 in World War II.
• 269 in the Korean War.
• 709 in Vietnam.
• One during the USS Pueblo incident.
• One in Panama.
• Seven in the Persian Gulf.
• 142 in the post-9/11 conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Each number is a name. Each name, a story. Each story, a reminder of the sacrifice made not only in distant places, but right here — from Oregon’s fields, towns, and Tribal communities.

We must also acknowledge a harder truth: some of those we remember today gave their lives for the hope of freedom and equality they were never fully granted in life. Black Americans served in segregated units. Native Americans and Asian Americans defended a country that treated them as outsiders. Women gave their lives in uniform long before they were fully recognized in it. LGBTQ+ service members served under policies that denied their identity. Latino service members endured discrimination even while wearing our nation’s cloth.

They died for a constitution whose promises were not fully extended to them. Let that truth not divide us, but deepen our reverence. Their sacrifice was not diminished by injustice. In fact, it is all the more sacred. Because they believed — as we all do — in a nation that is great, and that can yet be greater still. They died not just for the America that was, but for the America we still strive to become.

Today, more than 260,000 veterans call Oregon home. They are our neighbors, our leaders, our protectors. At ODVA, we carry forward the solemn responsibility to care not just for the fallen, but for the living. To ensure no sacrifice is forgotten. To uphold the promises made — in law, in policy, and in principle — to those who wore the uniform of our nation.

Memorial Day traces its roots to the Civil War, when families decorated graves — North and South — bound by grief and shared humanity. More than 150 years later, we still honor that call.

And we do so not just with flowers and flags, but with purpose. We honor our war dead when we invest in mental health and suicide prevention, when we build housing for unhoused veterans, when we lift up the voices of veterans of every race, gender, background, and orientation.

We honor them when we teach our children not only the history of war, but the cost of peace.

At 3 p.m. on Memorial Day, wherever you are, I invite you to join in the National Moment of Remembrance — one minute of silence for those who gave everything so that we may live freely.

In that moment, let your heart be full — not only of sorrow, but of resolve. Because we are the stewards of their legacy. And it is our duty to remember, not just with words, but with action.

May their memory guide us. May their courage strengthen us. And may their sacrifice — whether known or unknown, celebrated or too long overlooked — be honored in all we do.

Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels is a proud United States Army veteran and the director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, overseeing agency operations and ensuring the availability of and access to vital veteran services and programs for more than 260,000 veterans and their families across the state.

When in doubt, stay out: Increasing temperatures create potential for toxins in water 

Vancouver, Wash. – The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) recently awarded the Clark County Auditor’s Office with the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year that ended Dec. 31, 2023. The GFOA also announced that the Auditor’s Office received the Award for Outstanding Achievement for its Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR).

Certificate of Achievement
This is the 39th consecutive year that the ACFR has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence. The report has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report.

The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition for governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

PAFR
The PAFR award represents a significant achievement by the county. To be eligible for the PAFR award, a government must also submit its annual comprehensive financial report to GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Program and receive the certificate for the current fiscal year. Each eligible report is reviewed by judges who evaluate the report based on the following categories: reader appeal, understandability, distribution methods, creativity and other elements.

The Clark County Auditor’s Office produced its first PAFR in 2020, and this is the fourth consecutive year the county has received this recognition. The PAFR is a user friendly, highly visual report that summarizes information from the county’s more well known Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.

“Financial reporting is another tool to provide transparency and accountability to the public regarding their county government. Our hope is that residents will have confidence that information regarding taxpayer dollars is accurate and easily accessible,” said Clark County Auditor Greg Kimsey.

Both reports are available on the Auditor’s website.

The GFOA advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources and practical research for more than 21,000 members and the communities they serve. Learn more about GFOA at  https://www.gfoa.org/.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works is converting the existing stop-sign-controlled intersection at Northeast Ward and Davis roads to a single-lane roundabout. This intersection was the site of 44 crashes between 2015 and 2025. Twelve crashes resulted in injuries. Most of the crashes involved left turns, collisions with fixed objects, or were rear-end collisions. Roundabouts reduce the incidence of these types of collisions. This project will improve traffic safety and accommodate the area’s increasing traffic.

Construction is currently scheduled to begin in 2026.

Residents can learn more about the project at an open house from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 5. Staff will share a presentation about the project from 6:30 to 7 p.m. with a Q&A (question-and-answer) session immediately following.
 

Residents can attend in person at Prairie High School, 11311 NE 119th St. in Vancouver. Attendees can view project information and meet with staff before and after the presentation. Refreshments will be provided.

The presentation and Q&A session will also be streamed live online via Webex. Online attendees can ask questions during the Q&A using the chat feature. Residents can register to receive an email link to join the meeting. A meeting link will be posted to the webpage before the presentation. Registration and online meeting information can be found on the project webpage.
 

Presentation slides, visual aids and a recording of the presentation and Q&A session will be posted on the webpage within five business days. Materials are available in Spanish, Russian and Ukrainian, and additional languages on request. Interpretation, translation or accommodations to participate in the information session can be requested by contacting the project manager.

More information about the project can be found on the project webpage at clark.wa.gov/public-works/northeast-ward-road-and-northeast-davis-road.

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor.

Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language” next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.

Vaya a clark.wa.gov/public-works/news para leer esta información en español. Haga clic en el botón en la parte superior a la derecha de la página que dice "Change language " junto al icono de globo terráqueo y elija su idioma preferido.

Чтобы прочитать эту информацию на русском языке, зайдите на сайт clark.wa.gov/public-works/news. Нажмите на кнопку Change language (“Изменить язык”) в правом верхнем углу страницы рядом с символом земного шара и выберите свой язык.

Перейдіть на сторінку clark.wa.gov/public-works/news, щоб прочитати цю інформацію українською. Натисніть кнопку Change language (Змінити мову) зі значком глобуса у верхньому правому куті сторінки та виберіть потрібну мову.

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Vancouver, Wash. – On Monday, April 21, Vancouver City Council adopted the City’s first-ever, Five-Year Economic Development Strategy. In alignment with the City’s core values of sustainability and resiliency, and livability, the inclusive strategy is designed to help support economic growth and address growing disparities within the community, and is organized around four primary goals:

• Establish pathways to accessible quality jobs.
• Create opportunities for intergenerational wealth.
• Position Vancouver as an inclusive center of innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Invest in neighborhood commercial districts.

“It’s important to establish clear priorities for our economic development efforts so we can maintain a competitive local economy in the face of current market challenges,” said Vancouver’s Economic Prosperity and Housing Director Patrick Quinton. “This strategy will guide our efforts over the next five years as we work towards creating a more prosperous, innovative and inclusive city.”

A consistent theme across the Strategy’s four goals is wealth creation, whether through access to higher-paying jobs, more successful small businesses or new innovative industries and ventures.

The strategy will also be aligned with the region's economic development roadmap led by the Columbia River Economic Development Council  and Workforce Southwest Washington's 2025-2029 Strategic Plan. This ensures that Vancouver's actions are complementary to existing initiatives and leverage available tools and resources for maximum impact.

Development of the strategy involved both data analysis and broad community engagement. Regular updates on progress will be provided to both the community and elected officials.

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What: The Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) South Cascade District is inviting media to their aerial firefighting training, which will include the use of Weyerhaeuser aerial resources.

Background: On May 29, the ODF South Cascade District will be conducting an introduction to aerial firefighting for ground firefighters with a training component in the field. This training gives our boots on the ground the opportunity to meet the pilots, become familiar with working with aircraft, see what the capabilities are, and get practical experience in air-to-ground communications. The biggest benefit of this training is getting ground trainees a chance to work one-on-one with aircraft outside of an actual fire. In addition to meeting the pilots and training with live aircraft outside of a fire, firefighters will have a chance for feedback and questions from pilots during an after-action review (AAR).

Details and Visuals: Media will meet the PIOs at the ODF Springfield Unit office at 9 a.m. At 9:30 a.m., we will depart the office and caravan out to training location on Weyerhaeuser’s property. There is not an exact address for where the training will be held, so please be on time to not miss the caravan.

Visuals will include ground operations and aerial operations. At this time, there are two Type 3 helicopters from Weyerhaeuser confirmed for the training and there will be approximately 20 ground trainees. The aircraft will practice bucket drops with the ground firefighters practicing communication with the pilots. At the end of the training, pilots will participate in an AAR with ground firefighters.

There will be several opportunities for interviews throughout the day with trainees and instructors.

When: Thursday, May 29, 2025

Starting Location: ODF Springfield Unit Office, 3150 Main St, Springfield, OR 97478

Secondary Location: Weyerhaeuser

Time: 9:00-9:30 a.m. at ODF Springfield Unit Office
           10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on Weyerhaeuser property

PPE: Media will need a hard hat and high visibility shirt. If you do not have these, let us know at time of RSVP so we may supply it.

Please RSVP by emailing Jessica Neujahr, jessica.neujahr@odf.oregon.gov.

SAFETY TIPS FOR RUNNERS  
 

The Newport Marathon is just around the corner, so we can expect to see local and guest runners hitting the road on June 1st. Motorists should use extra caution, not only during special events like this, but throughout the year. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting to run, there are some things you should consider to keep yourself safe while running. The time of day and weather impact not only how you feel on your run but can also be more dangerous depending on the situation. Before heading out on your next run, consider these tips.

Before the Run

• Run with another person or a group.
• Let someone know when and where you are running and when you will return.
• Carry ID and a cell phone. Consider adding a small card with an emergency contact and any allergies or known medical conditions.
• Take a whistle with you.
• Dress for the weather and running conditions. Wear layers and sturdy shoes.
• Wear reflective clothing or gear regardless of the time of day.
• Use caution if you wear headphones or anything that distracts you. Be aware of cars, animals you may encounter, and other hazards on your route.
• Vary the route and the time of day that you run.
• If you run at night, remember to wear a headlamp and a flashing red light on your back. Consider additional reflective gear.
• Remember to stretch! Stretching before running and regular flexibility and strength training help prevent injuries.

During the Run

• Run against traffic so that you can observe the approach of automobiles.
• When possible, run on sidewalks or designated trails/pedestrian paths.
• Remember to hydrate. Runner’s belts and vests make it easier to carry water and snacks.
• Keep an eye on the temperature and how your body feels. If you start to overheat, feel dizzy, or otherwise unwell, take a break in the shade and drink water.
• Stay alert. When in doubt, follow your intuition. If something seems suspicious, do not panic, but run in a different direction.
• Do not approach a car to give directions. If you feel you must respond, do it while moving.
• Run in familiar areas. Note the location of neighbors or open businesses along the route.
• When in doubt call for help. For an emergency, call 911. Our non-emergency dispatch can be reached at 541-265-0777, or call a friend and keep them on the phone until you feel safe again.

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (May 22, 2025): Nearly 90,000 Oregon adults have moderate to severe gambling problems, and another 180,000 are at risk for a gambling disorder, according to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). Young people are not immune, with an estimated 25,000 Oregon adolescents ages 12 to 17 at risk for gambling issues.

The rapid rise of online betting platforms has made gambling easier to access than ever before, fueling concerns about addiction and its impact on mental health. In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, Kaiser Permanente Northwest is bringing attention to the connection between mental health disorders and gambling addiction and encouraging those who are struggling to seek help.

"Problematic gambling or gambling addiction often go hand in hand with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and other mental health issues," said Eric Tran, MD, an addiction psychiatrist with Kaiser Permanente in the Portland metro area. "While gambling may temporarily seem exciting or joyful, this diminishes over time. In the long run, the gambling can create an unhealthy cycle and sow more distress."

Depression and anxiety disorders are known risk factors in the progression of gambling disorders, but early detection and treatment can prevent further complications.

"Gambling disorders, along with other substance use disorders or behavioral addictions, are treatable mental health conditions that deserve attention and compassion," Dr. Tran added. "At Kaiser Permanente, mental health clinicians—including medical providers, counselors, case managers, and peer support—work with patients to create personalized care plans to address patients’ individual goal and circumstances. We believe treating the addiction, mental health, and the patient holistically leads to the greatest results,” Dr. Tran explained. "We offer a combination of therapy, groups, medication, and self-help resources. There’s a great wealth of resources and we want to make sure our members know that support is readily available."

Kaiser Permanente supports the Oregon Health Authority’s efforts to address gambling disorders by encouraging the use of Evive, a new, free app designed to help Oregonians reduce or stop gambling. Available for both Apple and Android devices, Evive provides flexible tools, including access to professionally trained counselors, peer support, and self-directed strategies, at no cost to Oregonians. It's designed to reach individuals wherever they are, whether they're ready for treatment or just thinking about making a change.

Interviews available:

Eric Tran, MD, psychiatrist with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, is available for Zoom interviews on Tuesday, May 27 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. en.a.vitt@kp.org" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: blue;" title="mailto:karen.a.vitt@kp.org">Contact Karen Vitt to schedule.

Dr. Tran is prepared to discuss:

• The connection between mental health conditions and gambling addiction
• Early warning signs gambling is becoming a problem
• How family history and genetics can affect gambling risk
• How integrated, personalized mental health care results in improved outcomes
• How early intervention tools like the Evive app can help reduce stigma and access barriers to care
• Tips for helping a loved one who may be struggling

ABOUT KAISER PERMANENTE  
Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve nearly 12.6 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, please visit: about.kaiserpermanente.org 

On May 21, 2025 at approximately 2124 hours Deputies from the Clark County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to an unknown injury collision near NW 78th Rd on NW 78th St. The collision involved two motor vehicles and a person driving an electric scooter.  The driver of the scooter was struck by both motor vehicles and died at the scene.  Both motor vehicles drivers stayed on scene and are cooperating with the investigation.  As of this time the decedent has not been identified. The Clark County Sheriff's Office Traffic Unit is investigating. 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet starting at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, June 4, and Thursday, June 5. The meetings will be held in the Tillamook Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. The meetings are open to the public and will also be livestreamed on the department’s YouTube channel.

The board’s business agenda for June 4 includes:

• Legislative session update
• Review of suggested edits to state forester recruitment materials
• Approval of designated individual to support state forester recruitment
• Wildfire outlook and response readiness
• Central Oregon and Northeast Oregon District boundary change
• Approval of forest protection association budgets
• Board of Forestry Governance Committee update
• Forestland conversion presentation

The agenda for June 5 includes:

• State forests modeled outcomes discussion with the Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee (FTLAC)

The full agenda is available on the board’s webpage. Live testimony is available on both days. Signing up for live testimony is required, and instructions are available online. Written testimony will also be accepted. Written comments can be submitted before or up to two weeks after the meeting day by mail to the Board Support Office, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310 or email to oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. Please include the appropriate agenda item and topic with the submission.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include appointing the State Forester, setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30-million-acre forestland base. Read more information about the board.

PF&R Hosts Annual Ceremony of Honor

Portland Fire & Rescue hosted its annual Ceremony of Honor tonight at the Airport Sheraton, in which members of PF&R, along with members of PBOT, PPB, PP&R and the general public, were recognized for going above and beyond the call of duty during emergency incidents over the past year.

Along with recognizing individuals for their efforts on emergency incidents, members of PF&R were recognized in 4 different categories with the annual “Of the Year” awards. Firefighter of the Year was awarded to FF Travis Chipman; the Thomas Gavin Safe Driver of the Year was awarded to FF Tim Spring; Medical Provider of the Year was awarded to FFE Micah Fullerton; and Non-Sworn PF&R Member of the Year was awarded to Jake Sigler.

Attached are photos of these sworn members, along with a link to the program which allows you to view all the awards that were presented. The link to the program and certificates associated with all the award language can be found here - 2025 Ceremony of Honor Awards | Portland.gov. (www.portland.gov/fire/2025-coh-awards)

A few examples of these awards: Members of the Parks and Police Bureaus were recognized for their efforts on emergency scenes; A member of PBOT was recognized for ensuring a house that was on fire was safely evacuated prior our arrival; Members of the public were recognized for taking great risks to ensure lives were saved at several emergency incidents; and an off-duty PF&R member was recognized for his life-saving efforts at a fire while “off the clock.”

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PORTLAND, Ore.— A suspected drug trafficker faces federal charges after he was caught transporting more than 60 pounds of powdered fentanyl on Interstate 5 near Albany, Oregon.

Jose Ivan Iribe Camorlinga, 46, a Mexican national unlawfully residing in Oakland, California, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute.

According to court documents, on May 20, 2025, Oregon State Police conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Iribe Camorlinga and registered to him in California. A trooper searched the vehicle and found two large bags containing 25 vacuum-sealed packages of fentanyl in the trunk. In total, law enforcement seized more than 60 pounds of fentanyl powder. Iribe Camorlinga was arrested and transferred into the custody of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Iribe Camorlinga made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

The case is being investigated by the DEA and is being prosecuted by Paul T. Maloney, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 3-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

The Oregon State Police-Domestic Highway Enforcement (OSP-DHE) Initiative is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives.

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The Portland Police Bureau is now sending news releases via a new platform and will look different in user e-mail boxes. Existing subscriber e-mail addresses to FlashAlert were automatically migrated over and should receive e-mails with a new format, but anyone who wants to sign up can do so.

To sign up to have PPB news releases sent to your e-mail, click here.

The only change in PPB communications channels is that we will no longer be sending news releases via FlashAlert. News releases will still be available on our website, our channel on X, and Portland Police on Threads.

Additional information about Portland Police is available by following us on our social media channels:

Facebook: portlandpolice

Instagram: portlandpolice

Bluesky: PPB on Bluesky

LinkedIn: PPB on LinkedIn

YouTube: Police Videos

On our website, users can search for content via keyword, and can filter by type (blog post, news article, newsletter, or public notice). You can also subscribe to the Talking Beat Podcast. Finally, users can remove themselves from the e-mail list at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in any of our e-mails.

Find out more about the Strategic Communications Unit here.

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NEWBERG, OR – May 19, 2025 – U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici and Oregon State Representative Andrea Salinas will visit the Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center's newly renovated and expanded Newberg Wellness Center this Friday, May 23rd, to engage in a crucial discussion about the potential impacts of Medicaid cuts on the community and to learn more about the center's vital services.

The visit will provide an opportunity for the representatives to meet with Virginia Garcia leadership and staff to understand firsthand how proposed Medicaid reductions could affect access to care for vulnerable populations in Washington and Yamhill counties. A key focus will be on the center's commitment to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and culturally appropriate primary health care, particularly for migrant and seasonal farmworkers and others with barriers to receiving care.

"We are honored to welcome Representatives Bonamici and Salinas to our Newberg Wellness Center," said Gil Muñoz, CEO of Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center. "Their presence underscores the importance of safeguarding Medicaid and ensuring that our community continues to have access to the healthcare they deserve. We look forward to a productive dialogue on how we can work together to protect these essential services."

In addition to the Medicaid discussion, the representatives will tour the newly renovated facility, which features expanded exam rooms, a dedicated wellness area with exercise space and a teaching kitchen, upgraded dental operatories, an integrated team-based healthcare workspace, and a new teaching lab for future medical professionals.

This expansion, made possible through the generous donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations, as well as government grants, significantly enhances Virginia Garcia's ability to serve the growing needs of the Newberg community.

Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center will commemorate the grand opening of its expanded Newberg Wellness Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 19th. Invited guests will include political representatives, major supporters, and media partners, who will join in celebrating this significant milestone in enhancing community health.

About Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center:

The Mission of the Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center is to provide high quality, comprehensive, and culturally appropriate primary health care to the communities of Washington and Yamhill counties with a special emphasis on migrant and seasonal farmworkers and others with barriers to receiving ​health care.​ Founded in 1975, Virginia Garcia offers a comprehensive range of medical, dental, vision, behavioral health, and community health services.

Acknowledgement: This Newberg Wellness Center Project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $2 million with 92 percentage financed with non-governmental sources. The contents are those of Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. 

Image: https://virginiagarcia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/DJI_20240127205514_0096_D-768x432.jpg

On the evening of Sunday, May 18, 2025, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the Siletz Gas and Mini Mart, located at 315 S. Gaither Street in Siletz, Oregon, following a report of an armed robbery that had just occurred. The victim reported that a male suspect brandished a weapon and stole cash from the business before fleeing on foot.

The next day, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Detectives, with assistance from several Patrol Deputies, continued the investigation and were able to identify the suspect as 42-year-old Marcus D. McCall of Siletz.

On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at approximately 4:15 PM, McCall was taken into custody outside Noel’s Market in Siletz. He was transported to the Lincoln County Jail, where he was booked on charges including Robbery in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Theft in the First Degree, Menacing, and Pointing a Firearm at Another.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to express gratitude to the Newport Police Department, Oregon State Police, and Toledo Police Department for their assistance in this incident. Additionally, we would like to thank the community of Siletz for their support during the investigation.

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 05/22/2025

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS May 22, 2025, 6:30PM Evergreen Virtual Academy Board Members are Hereby notified that a Session of the Board will be held via Zoom Webinar at https://evergreenvirtual-org.zoom.us/j/86346138790
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 301 715 8592

Linn County, Ore 21 May 2025- Oregon State Police K-9 team locates large quantity of fentanyl during traffic stop on Interstate 5.

On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, around 2 p.m., Oregon State Police stopped a white Chevrolet Impala for an unlawful lane change. During the traffic stop, the trooper recognized signs of drug activity and obtained permission to search the vehicle. Approximately 60 pounds of powdered fentanyl were discovered in the trunk of the vehicle.

The operator of the vehicle, Jose I Iribe (46) of Oakland (CA) was arrested for unlawful possession of fentanyl and transferred to DEA custody for further investigation.

The investigation is on-going and no additional information is available for release at this time.

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OSP Domestic Highway Enforcement Initiative
The Oregon State Police-Domestic Highway Enforcement (OSP-DHE) Initiative is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the OSP-DHE Initiative.

On Tuesday, May 20th, 2025, the Newport Police Department, with the assistance of the Lincoln City Police Department, served a search warrant at a trailer located in the Harbor Village Trailer Park in Newport. The warrant was the result of a long-term investigation into the downloading and sharing of Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM), more commonly referred to as child pornography. Arrested at the scene was Kurtis Fegulia, 36, of Newport.

Newport Police began the investigation after receiving a Cybertip from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program, which was developed in 1998 and is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces, representing over 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Since its inception, ICAC has trained over 675,000 law enforcement officers in the detection of crimes against children, has reviewed over 844,000 complaints, and has assisted in over 89,000 arrests of persons responsible for crimes against children.

With the assistance of ICAC, Newport Police were able to determine that Fegulia had downloaded or shared over 700 minutes (11+ hours) of video content, and over 800 separate files, depicting content of child sex abuse material (CSAM). Some of the victims in the content were as young as under 1 year of age.

Officers seized electronic equipment at the scene associated with the crimes.

Kurtis Fegulia, 36, was taken into custody and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on the following charges:

• Encouraging Child Sex Abuse 1 x 10
• Encouraging Child Sex Abuse 2 x 10

This investigation is ongoing. If you have any information regarding this investigation, contact Detective Cicerone of the Newport Police Department at 541-574-3348. The Newport Police Tip Line is available at 541-574-5455, or Text-a-Tip at 541-270-1856 or tipline@newportpolice.net.

Information Released By: Lt. Tyson Haynes, 541-574-3348

Clatsop County, OR — This year’s Community Baby Shower, a free and festive event celebrating new and expectant families will be held Friday, May 30, 2025, from 3–6 p.m. at Sunset Empire Park and Recreation, located at 1120 Broadway St. in Seaside. It is hosted by Clatsop County Public Health in partnership with Build Your Nest Postpartum Navigator Pilot Projects, the Perinatal Task Force, and the Community Health Advocacy and Resource Team (CHART).

The event is designed to honor and celebrate families during this transformative time in their lives, while also connecting them to community resources that support lifelong wellness.

Attendees can look forward to:

• A free, nutritious dinner
• A fun-filled Kid Zone
• Car seat safety checks (available to all attendees)
• Infant feeding support
• Baby supplies
• Special gifts for each family
• Meeting doulas and postpartum navigators
• Connecting with other families

“This event is about more than just celebrating new life—it’s about making sure families feel supported, seen, and connected,” said Lisa Schuyler, Clatsop County Public Health Promotions Supervisor. “We want every parent and caregiver to know that they’re not alone. There’s a whole network of care here for them.”

If you are pregnant or have a baby under a year, register here:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeBJtwsc-EliSNvai4YN0Cz2zfWEzm5Qu5jKX6T-Im0hmlofQ/viewform

For more about  family support services in Clatsop County, visit: www.buildyournestworkbook.com/astoria-resources

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Vancouver, Wash. — The City of Vancouver invites community members to the first open house to learn about proposed improvements to 192nd Avenue between Northeast 18th Street and Southeast 1st Street, one of east Vancouver’s busiest and most important corridors. The event will be held at Union High School, 6201 N.W. Friberg-Strunk St., from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18.

The City is in the early design phase for the 192nd Avenue Improvement Project, which will modernize this one-mile corridor to meet current standards and prepare for the expected future growth in the area. Construction is planned to begin as early as 2028 once funding is secured.

The corridor is home to businesses, neighborhoods and recreational destinations. Today, an average of 14,000 vehicles travel this road daily—a number expected to grow to 22,000 by 2045. With major destinations like the Humane Society for Southwest Washington, Harmony Sports Complex, Costco and four schools, 192nd Avenue plays a vital role in east Vancouver. However, with missing sidewalks, limited bike and pedestrian access, and increasing traffic, the current roadway design no longer meets the needs of the community.

“192nd Avenue is a vital connection for thousands of people each day—whether they’re heading to school, work, shopping or recreation,” said Ivar Christensen, project manager for the City of Vancouver. “We’re excited to work with the community to create a safer, more comfortable corridor for everyone.”

Attendees at the open house will:

• Learn about the City’s goals for improving safety, mobility and access along 192nd Avenue
• See early design ideas and suggested intersection improvements to improve pedestrian travel and reduce traffic congestion
• Understand how the project fits into the City’s 20-year Transportation System Plan
• Share feedback that will help shape the final design

The City is committed to involving the public at every stage of the project. Feedback collected at the open house will inform design decisions, helping ensure the final improvements reflect local needs and priorities. The project team will continue working with the community on the project's design through 2026.

This event is free and open to all. To learn more and sign up for updates, visit: beheardvancouver.org/192nd.

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Runners and walkers will enjoy a unique vantage point while traversing the historic Lewis & Clark Bridge across the Columbia River 

LONGVIEW, Wash. – The 3^rd annual Rainier2Longview 10K Bridge Run is scheduled for June 1, traversing Rainier, Oregon, to Longview, Washington. In partnership with the City of Longview Parks & Recreation Department, PeaceHealth is proud to again serve as the presenting sponsor of this unique race that spans two cities. 

The race starts at 8 a.m. from Rainier City Park in Rainier, Oregon and finishes at Martin’s Dock in Lake Sacajawea Park in Longview. Registration remains open through May 28, 2025. Children 10 and under are free. Find race and registration details here. https://www.r2lbridgerun.com/ 

“We are pleased to again partner with the City of Longview Parks & Recreation and serve as the presenting sponsor of this race,” says Kendall Sawa, Chief Hospital Executive for PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center. “We are committed to improving the health and wellness of our community, and this event provides a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together in support of that commitment.” 

“We simply couldn’t host events like the Rainier2Longview 10K without incredible partners like PeaceHealth,” states Longview City Manager Jennifer Wills. “Their support makes it possible for us to create meaningful, energizing experiences that bring our community together. By aligning our missions for a healthier, more active community, we’re not just organizing a race, we’re building a better place to live, work, and play.”

PeaceHealth will have a booth at Sacajawea Park near the finish line. All are encouraged to stop by. A finisher banner is available for all runners and walkers to sign.

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About PeaceHealth: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a non-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, more than 3,000 providers, more than 160 clinics and 9 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org. 

UPDATE 5/21: Please join us for this event at the Cedaroak Boat Ramp 4600 Elmran Dr, West Linn, OR 97068

As the region gears up for another busy summer on local rivers and waterways, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue (TVF&R) is inviting media representatives to a water rescue demonstration on Thursday, May 22, 2025. The event will spotlight TVF&R’s Water Rescue Team, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the life-saving operations that keep our waterways safe.

With warmer weather driving more people to swim, paddle, and float, water safety becomes a top concern. TVF&R’s demonstration will feature real-time watercraft deployment, rescue simulations, and interviews with rescue technicians, giving media a firsthand view of the challenges rescue teams face.

TVF&R’s Water Rescue Team is made up of two highly trained, 4-person firefighter crews. Each team member is cross-trained in advanced rescue techniques and water-specific hazards such as swift currents, shifting depths, and underwater obstacles. The teams are based at Station 59 (West Linn) and Station 20 (Newberg)—both positioned for rapid response on the Willamette River.

As part of the Clackamas County Water Rescue Consortium, TVF&R works collaboratively to respond to water-related emergencies across the region. The multi-agency team covers about 50 miles along the Willamette River from Salem to the lower Willamette toward Portland, including all of Clackamas County and roughly 50 miles of the Clackamas River. Additional waterways include large areas of Washington County, including 38 miles of the Tualatin River, a portion of Yamhill County, Molalla River, and the Pudding River.

According to data from Oregon Bureau of Vital Statistics and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, drowning is the second leading cause of death for Oregon children aged 0 to 4 and the fourth for those aged 5 to 18. With summer fast approaching, TVF&R is using this event to emphasize the importance of water safety, life jacket use, and safe recreation practices around rivers, lakes, and pools.

Date: Thursday, May 22, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Location: Cedaroak Boat Ramp - 4600 Elmran Dr, West Linn, OR 97068
Media Check-in: Begins at 9:30 AM (Life jackets provided)

Please RSVP to pio@tvfr.com.

Traffic safety is important to all of us. Dedicated education, responsible and aware drivers, and traffic enforcement are a big part of roadway safety. Pedestrian safety on and near roadways requires extra attention.

The Newport Police Department is conducting a pedestrian enforcement detail on May 29^th, 2025 from 1pm to 4 pm at the marked crosswalk located at the intersection of Highway 101 and SW Angle street.

The public is reminded to use this time and everyday to see pedestrians and slow down. All intersections in Oregon, whether marked or not, are pedestrian crosswalks.

Information Released By: Sgt Leake, 541-574-3348

SALEM, Ore. — The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee meets Friday, May 23 at 10 a.m. at ODF headquarters in Salem, with a virtual option.

The public meeting will be held in the Tillamook Room at the Oregon Department of Forestry’s headquarters, 2600 State St., Salem. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

Agenda items will include:

• Update on ODF engagement process for neighboring landowners
• Review of proposed forest modeling outcomes for Draft Forest Management Plan

Public comment is scheduled at the beginning of the meeting. To submit written comment, email ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov. Written comments sent at least 48 hours before the meeting will give the FTLAC time to review and consider information. Comments submitted after that window of time will be sent to the FTLAC after the meeting, entered into the record and posted online. Comments are not accepted after the meeting concludes.

The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee is comprised of seven county commissioners representing 15 Oregon counties where state forestlands are located. The FTLAC is a statutorily established committee that advises the Board of Forestry on matters related to forestland managed by ODF. View more information on the FTLAC webpage.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

Gilliam County, Ore. 21 May 2025- On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 3 :45 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Interstate 84, near milepost 148, in Gilliam County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Adam Hassan Ahmed Haroun (47) of Twin Falls (ID), left the roadway and struck a bridge pillar before catching fire. 

The operator of the Freightliner (Haroun) was declared deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately 11 hours during the on-scene investigation. 

OSP was assisted by the North Gilliam County Fire Department and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Josephine County, Ore. 21 May 2025- On Monday, May 19, 2025, at 10:48 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 199, at the intersection with Waldamar Road, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Toyota Corolla, operated by Hunter Lee Bryant (24) of Cave Junction, was eastbound on Waldamar Road when it failed to obey the stop sign and entered Highway 199. A southbound GMC Yukon, operated by Scott Adam Seaman (59) of Selma, struck the driver side door of the Toyota.

The operator of the Toyota (Bryant) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the GMC (Seaman) suffered minor injuries.

The highway was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation. 

OSP was assisted by the Josephine County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Bruce Wayne Shelton, died the morning of May 21, 2025. Shelton was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away at the facility while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Shelton entered DOC custody on December 23, 2003, from Multnomah and Yamhill counties with an earliest release date of January 18, 2026. Shelton was 83 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of approximately 12,000 men and women who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem that houses approximately 2,000 adults in custody. OSP is surrounded by a 25-foot-high wall with 10 towers. The facility has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, behavioral health, intermediate care housing, and an infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care. OSP participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including the furniture factory, laundry, metal shop, and contact center. It provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, work-based education, work crews, and pre-release services. OSP was established in 1866 and, until 1959, was Oregon’s only prison.

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Oregon Wildlife Foundation provides updates for three projects

(PORTLAND, Ore.) – Roads fragment and reduce the quality of habitat, and cause collisions with wildlife. According to Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) carcass collection data, approximately 5,000 large-bodied animals, including elk, deer, bear, and antelope, are killed annually in wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs). The actual number of wildlife killed by roads in Oregon is likely much higher, as, according to researchers, an equal or higher number of animals die outside the highway right-of-way every year but are not included in ‘conventionally collected road survey carcass data.’

Smaller species like birds of prey, frogs, coyotes, and turtles are also unaccounted for, so the total impact of roads on wildlife is not fully understood. WVCs are dangerous for people, too. On average, in Oregon, 1-2 motorists will lose their lives due to collisions or near misses with wildlife. Finally, damage to private and public property resulting from WVCs and accident avoidance numbers in the tens of millions of dollars annually.

One of Oregon Wildlife Foundation’s conservation priorities is to improve habitat connectivity for wildlife. We’re working with ODOT, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and community-based partners throughout Oregon on wildlife passage projects, habitat connectivity, and the protection of wildlife migration corridors. Interested members of the public can support our efforts by donating to our Watch for Wildlife fund.

The following is a sample of the projects that Oregon Wildlife Foundation supports. For a complete list and more information, visit www.myowf.org/wildlifemoves.

I-84 NE Oregon Wildlife Crossing Project

Interstate 84, in NE Oregon, is an almost complete barrier to wildlife movement. The goal of the NE Oregon Wildlife Crossing Coalition is to increase wildlife access to habitat across the interstate. A wildlife crossing mitigation study to identify and prioritize crossing locations along two segments of I-84 between Pendleton and La Grande will be followed by the development of designs for new structures, including overcrossing and undercrossings and retrofits of existing bridges and culverts to accommodate wildlife use.

Improving wildlife access to habitat across I-84 will increase genetic diversity and resilience to climate change impacts, including degraded habitat due to drought and more frequent wildfire events. With the Oregon Wildlife Foundation as their fiscal sponsor, the Coalition has begun fundraising for this study of I-84. Donate via the Watch for Wildlife fund.

Harborton Frog Crossing Project (Hwy 30 near Linnton)

Oregon Wildlife Foundation is the sponsor of the Harborton Frog Crossing Project, an initiative along highway 30 in Linnton to provide a local population of Northern red-legged frogs with safe access to the wetland they need to produce.

Volunteers with the Harborton Frog Shuttle are working to conserve this subpopulation of red-legged frogs; gathering them in buckets, driving them across busy Highway 30, and releasing them near Harborton wetland. They repeat this process when the frogs have laid their eggs and have begun returning to their forest home. The extraordinary efforts of Shuttle volunteers are helping conserve red-legged frogs, but a sustainable habitat connectivity solution is needed.

The Coalition commissioned a wildlife crossing analysis and conceptual design for a dedicated passage structure to be that long-term solution. The phase I report for the Harborton Frog Crossing Project was published in November 2024. Fundraising for Phase II, full design and engineering, is now underway.

Northern red-legged frogs are not classified as an endangered species and aren’t a threat to motorist safety. As a result, our project doesn’t qualify for most sources of wildlife crossing funding. To make this project a reality, we need your help. Every dollar counts! Visit www.myOWF.org/frogs to donate.

Humboldt Marten Crossing Hwy 101

Humboldt or coastal marten are a subspecies of American marten and make their home along the coast of southern Oregon and northern California. With an estimated total Oregon population of only 71 individuals, the loss of even a single individual is significant. Currently, one of the largest contributors to mortality among Humboldt marten are vehicle strikes on Highway 101 and along the TransPacific Parkway near North Bend.

The goal of this project is to reduce vehicle-related mortality of Humboldt marten and other wildlife along Highway 101 by retrofitting existing highway infrastructure, like culverts and bridges, or building new structures in areas where marten presence is documented. This project is being managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service with a coalition of federal and state agencies, and community-based organizations providing technical and other assistance to the effort.

With funding support from our Watch for Wildlife Fund and other sources, a consulting team is conducting a wildlife crossing mitigation analysis to determine the best locations and design alternatives for crossings within the target highway corridor. Donate via our Watch for Wildlife fund.

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Oregon Wildlife Foundation

Oregon Wildlife Foundation is an operating charitable foundation dedicated to increasing private and public funding support for wildlife conservation projects in Oregon. Since its founding in 1981, the Foundation has directed tens of millions of dollars in private and public support to a broad range of projects throughout Oregon. For more information visit www.myowf.org.

As the old saying goes, “If you don’t like the weather in Oregon, just wait a minute
and it will change.” In late March, the weather changed in the mountains just
north of Burns Oregon, the snowpack started melting, fast! Burns is a small
community of 2,700 in the high desert of Harney County. On March 30th the
Burns levee on the Silivies River failed and the community of Burns was flooded
by the swollen Silvies River affecting hundreds of homes on the north and east
side. The flooding was so large, it could be seen from national Weather Service
satellites in space.
The community response was immediate, and help came from far and wide. And
the residents of Burns rallied and helped themselves. The Burns Lions Club,
through their member, District Governor Lion Pete Runnels, applied for an
emergency grant from Lions Clubs International Foundation. The clock started at
5pm on Monday with the submission of the grant. By 3pm on Tuesday the
$15,000 grant was approved and by Thursday, the money was in the bank in only
94 hours.
That was great, but not enough for the Burns Lions promptly added $5,000 of
their own charitable project fund. The Crooked River Ranch Lions heard about the
disaster and sent $1,000. With some quick personal donations, including Parr
Lumber staff and Lion Pete, the total dollars to help Burns residents came to just
under $22,000.
Lion Pete Runnels connected with the Parr Lumber store in Burns and was met by
manager, Jon Case, who was busy trying to get as much sheetrock, subfloor and
insulation as could be trucked to Burns in short order. Jon and Burns Parr Lumber
were already planning to let affected Burns residents have product at near cost.
After some brief number crunching the sum of $350 per flood victim was settled
on.
When the water receded and Burns residents took the toll of the floods damage,
they began flocking to the Parr Lumber store, where they were happy to get
product at substantially reduced prices along with a $350 gift from the Lions.
When everything was said and done, the Lions helped 69 Burns families begin
their recovery from the Silvies River flood of 2025. Lion Pete was quoted saying,

“When the waters receded and folks faced the question of where do we start …
this assistance was immediate and gave them a starting point and hope to begin
the recovery process. There was no ‘red tape’ so to speak.” Jon Case replied, “We
would do it again in a heartbeat. The appreciation shown from those affected was
moving.”
As Burns families continue their recovery, the Burns Lions will be there to help. As
always the Burns Lions will make sure underserved community members will get
the vision and hearing help they need and that all the K-8 students get quality
vision screening plus so much more. The Burns Lions say: “Where there’s a need,
there’s a Lion”. The Burns Lions can be reached through their Facebook page at
https://www.facebook.com/BurnsLionClub/

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For more information, contact Lion Pete Runnels at peterunnels59@gmail.com

Salem, Ore. – As of Wednesday morning, based on available data from both Marion and Polk County residents of Salem, the Salem five-year local option levy appears to be passing. An update from Marion County on the results of the May 20, 2025 measure is anticipated by 5 p.m. Thursday, May 22. When the outcome of the levy is known, if it passes, the Salem Budget Committee will reconvene on May 28, 2025 to consider amendments to the FY26 Budget.

“I’ve been moved by the outpouring of support for our Library, our 90 parks and countless recreation programs and Center 50+,” said Mayor Julie Hoy. “So many have come together in support of these treasured community resources. I remain hopeful and I’ll be watching the results of yesterday’s ballot measure closely. I’m looking forward to sharing in the good news for our community.”

If the measure passes, the property tax revenue generated would be placed in a dedicated and protected account overseen by a committee to ensure that the revenue is used only for purposes outlined in the measure, including:

• Restoring and continuing Salem Public Library services.
• Operation of Center 50+ classes, activities, outreach services and support services.
• Recreation programming, including youth day camps, youth sports and community events.
• Management and maintenance of more than 90 parks, including facilities, playgrounds, splash fountains, sports fields, trails and more.

The Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Budget begins on July 1, 2025 and addresses the $13.8 million budget shortfall in funding for Salem Public Library, parks, recreation programs and Center 50+, and other General Fund programs. If the measure does not pass, the City of Salem’s Fiscal Year 2026 Proposed Budget, advanced by the Budget Committee on May 7, will be taken up by the Salem City Council on June 9, 2025.

“If the early results bear out, this will get us closer to the services our community wants and deserves ,” said Interim City Manager Krishna Namburi. “I remain hopeful that we can restore services our community relies on and, retain the dedicated staff whose jobs would be  affected, without this additional community support .”

Even after the reductions included in the FY 2026 budget, the projected forecast shows an $8.9 million deficit in FY 2027. The City will continue pursuing new revenue opportunities, identifying efficiencies and finding cost savings, including direct engagement with the State of Oregon to pursue funding support for public safety services to State facilities

The Budget Committee’s work began April 16, 2025 and continued through May 7, 2025. The Committee considered in-person testimony and in writing sharing how these services have positively impacted their lives and voicing concerns over the potential cuts. The Committee also held public hearings on Capital Improvement Fund and projects, and State Shared revenues discussed. At each meeting, the City provided responses to questions. All the Budget Committee’s materials, and the Proposed FY26 Budget, are available on the City’s website.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The county manager is seeking applicants with an interest in government and educational access television and cable television franchising to fill an opening on the volunteer city/county Telecommunications Commission. Applicants must be Clark County residents.

The unfinished three-year term begins immediately and ends May 31, 2027.

The commission serves in an advisory capacity to the County Council and Vancouver City Council on matters related to cable television and telecommunications issues. It makes reports, monitors compliance with city and county cable franchise agreements, and establishes rules and regulations regarding cable television and associated telecommunications issues. The commission also serves as an advisory body during cable franchise renewal negotiations with the cable operator.

The commission meets two times per year on Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m. Meetings are held in a hybrid format with in an in-person option at City Hall, 415 W. Sixth St. and an online option.

To be considered, please submit a letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager’s Office, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000. Applicants also can send information by email to michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, June 20.

Learn more about the commission on the city of Vancouver’s website.

TIGARD, Ore. – For Portland Community College student Yuriko Ose, interior design is more than an aesthetic pursuit — it is a cultural expression. As she prepares to graduate with honors from PCC this June with an associate degree in Interior Design, Ose is already applying her skills in the real world, blending international perspectives with local expertise.

“Culture shapes the spaces we inhabit,” Ose said. “This cultural influence has had a lasting impact on my approach to design, inspiring me to pursue a career where I can blend these principles with contemporary design solutions.”

Born in the United States and raised in Japan since the age of seven, Ose brings a unique global outlook to her work. She first earned a bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages and Literature at Sophia University, the oldest Catholic university in Japan, and studied abroad in France before deciding to pursue her passion for design at PCC.

From Tokyo to Tigard: Designing for the Pacific Northwest

As part of her PCC experience, Ose is currently interning with Ichijo Technological Homes, one of Japan’s largest homebuilders — but with a twist. Their focus isn’t Tokyo or Kyoto. Instead, they’re building sustainable, energy-efficient homes right here in Tigard and throughout the Pacific Northwest.

In her role, Ose works closely with the firm’s lead architect, translating designs into CAD layouts that balance individual lot requirements, neighborhood design standards and homeowner preferences. The goal: energy-efficient homes that are both functional and beautiful.

“Yuriko is working diligently and learning every day," said Ichijo USA Vice President Masaki Narita. "I am confident that she will become an excellent designer."

Narita added that it is a challenging position, but one that speaks to her strengths — blending technical skill, artistic vision, and an understanding of how design serves people.

Finding the Right Fit at PCC

Ose found PCC’s Interior Design Program online while researching U.S. colleges. The program stood out to her for its clear curriculum, sample schedules and defined career pathways.

“I appreciated the small class sizes, as they allowed for more meaningful interactions with both my classmates and professors,” she said. “Although I’d never been to Oregon before, the program felt like the right fit.”

Originally planning to enroll in 2020, Ose postponed her start due to the COVID-19 pandemic and arrived in Portland two years later. Since then, she has immersed herself fully in student life — balancing design studio classes with part-time work as a food server and Japanese language teacher, along with her internship.

Despite a full schedule, Ose has maintained a 4.0 grade-point average and earned a place on PCC’s President’s List. 

“These smaller classes were beneficial because they allowed me to focus more on projects,” she said. “Additionally, students typically take the same classes each term, which fosters strong connections and a sense of community.” 

Robin Rigby Fisher, department chair for interior design, said Ose has been a standout student from the beginning.

“She shares thoughtful ideas and brings a strong creative perspective,” Fisher said. “Yuriko is always supportive of her classmates, offering encouragement and contributing to a collaborative atmosphere. Her design work is both original and deeply informed by her cultural background and personal experiences.”

Designing for Well-being

Her passion for interior design deepened during the pandemic, as the world collectively reconsidered the importance of home environments.

“Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by floor plans and enjoyed envisioning how to optimize limited spaces,” Ose said. “But during the pandemic, I realized how much our environments affect our mental and physical well-being. That inspired me to pursue design professionally.”

At PCC, students in the Interior Design Program spend the first year developing foundational skills — from hand drafting to digital design tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp and Chief Architect. In the second year, the focus shifts to preparing for the industry, with portfolio development, internships and networking opportunities.

“Personally, this approach was valuable, as it allowed me to gain real-world experience and get ready to apply for jobs before graduation,” Ose said.

A Global Perspective, A Local Future

As a next-generation designer with a multicultural background, Ose embodies the kind of student the college hopes to attract — driven, creative and globally minded. She encourages others, especially international students, to consider PCC as a stepping stone to a fulfilling design career.

“The support I received from everyone played a significant role in helping me succeed in my courses,” she said. “My career vision is now much clearer, and I have a stronger sense of the direction I want to pursue.”

With graduation quickly approaching, Ose is actively exploring interior design roles that will allow her to combine her technical training with her cross-cultural perspective. Her dream? To specialize in commercial interior spaces that support both functionality and well-being.

“Understanding that each individual has unique needs for design and comfort inspired me to pursue interior design professionally,” she said. “I want to create environments that help people feel good — spaces that work beautifully and reflect the people who use them.”

For now, Ose is focused on finishing the term strong and walking across the graduation stage in June. But her journey is just beginning.

Wherever her career leads — in Japan, Oregon or beyond — Yuriko Ose is poised to make her indelible mark in the world of interior design.

For more details on the Interior Design Program, visit the https://www.pcc.edu/programs/interior-design/

2025 Commencement

Thousands of PCC grads like Ose will be honored as part of the class of 2025. The college’s commencement ceremony takes place at 7 p.m., Friday, June 13 at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum where thousands of newly minted graduates will celebrate their degrees and certificates with family and friends.

Learn more: https://www.pcc.edu/commencement/

About Portland Community College: Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 53,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

Visit PCC news on the web at http://news.pcc.edu/

For B-ROLL footage, visit PCC campus and student life highlight reel.

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Salem, Oregon – In the second round of FY2025 Career Opportunity Program grant awards, the Oregon Arts Commission and The Ford Family Foundation have awarded $97,791 to 29 artists for career development projects.

The awards include $44,344 from the Oregon Arts Commission for all artistic disciplines and $53,447 in supplemental funding for 15 established visual artists through a partnership with The Ford Family Foundation’s Visual Arts Program. Individual grants range from $1,000 to $8,299.

Career Opportunity grants support individual Oregon artists by enabling them to take advantage of timely opportunities that enhance their artistic careers. Most grants support the artists’ participation in residencies, exhibitions or performance opportunities.

“This grant program invests in the career growth of talented Oregon artists,” said Arts Commissioner Jason Holland, who led one of two review panels. “Such support helps artists build visibility and opens doors to new creative paths and collaborations."

The Ford Family Foundation funds are available to established Oregon visual artists who are producing new work in the fields of contemporary art and craft.

"The Ford Family Foundation values creativity in our communities and is thrilled to align with the Arts Commission to invest in career opportunities for Oregon artists," said Kara Inae Carlisle, president and CEO of The Ford Family Foundation.

FY2025 Career Opportunity Program round two grant award recipients are:

Rebecca Burrell, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support Burrell’s post as artist-in-residence at Uppsala University’s Centre for Gender Research in Sweden through the Fulbright Student Program for the 2025-26 school year. Burrell will artistically analyze how feminine freedom is portrayed in Swedish film, through digital media and printed book works.

Suzanne Chi, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support a two-week creative research project in Berlin, Germany, with multi-disciplinary artists Olivia Ancona and Scott Jennings, resulting in the creation of a new performance work.

Kimberly Smith Claudel, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support the material and transportation costs for a solo exhibition at the Vestibule Gallery in Seattle, Washington, in October 2025.

Matthew Claudel, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation $4,000

To support production and travel costs to Venice in May 2025, where Claudel will install an exhibition at the Venice Biennale of Architecture – an interactive experience showing a new urban narrative driven by the potential of advanced manufacturing building on a case study in Portland.

Epiphany Couch, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support the creation of new work for a group exhibition at Stove Works contemporary art space in Chattanooga, Tennessee, from Aug. 1 to Nov. 15; to cover travel costs for participation in the panel discussion; and to expand the reach of the artist’s work to new audiences.

Fernanda D'Agostino, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $6,007

To support Field Studies, a year-long engagement/workshop at Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts, in conjunction with its “Knowing Nature” programming, culminating in a performance/installation in April 2026.

Ime Etuk, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support travel to and participation in the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival in August, where Etuk’s feature film, “Outdoor School,” will screen for a national audience, providing significant career advancement, networking opportunities and professional development.

Ethan Gans-Morse, Phoenix

Oregon Arts Commission $1,516

To support travel to Los Angeles to participate in a recording session during the summer of 2025, at which Grammy Award-winning pianist Nadia Shpachenko will record Gans-Morse’s composition, “Bomb Shelter Variations.”

Damien Gilley, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,216

To support Gilley’s solo exhibition “Vista Vista” at Maryhill Museum of Art in Washington from Aug. 1 through Nov. 15. Gilley will create a 10-by-48 feet wall installation and will be giving an artist talk to the public promoted by the museum to regional communities.

Brian Gillis, Eugene

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,500

To support “Washington Ware,” a para-institutional project (running from Sept. 19 to Oct. 15) that will transform the Harold Washington College’s President’s Gallery into a cooperative pottery that produces tableware to benefit vulnerable people and the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Patricia Vazquez Gomez, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,500

To support participation in a residency at Hangar Center for Artistic Research in Lisbon, Portugal, in the fall of 2025.

Emily Kepulis, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $1,000

To support travel expenses associated with attending the CloverMill Artist Residency in Giessenburg, The Netherlands, June 19-22.

Joy Kloman, Hood River

The Ford Family Foundation $2,500

To support Kloman’s international artist residency at Hangar Center of Artistic Research in Lisbon, Portugal, in March 2026.

Jenna Lechner, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,750

To support Lechner’s attendance at a two-week artist residency with the National Park Service at the Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve in Cave Junction, Oregon, from late May through early June.

Marne Lucas, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation $3,000

To support an art and science artist residency at PLAYA in Summer Lake, Oregon, Nov. 6-15, where Lucas will film new black and white, infrared, thermal landscape video, and develop a collage on paper series from her “transmundane” prints embellished with metal leaf.

Mack McFarland, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,745

To support McFarland’s travel and on-the-ground expenses to attend and co-organize one of the four panels of the Norway conference Circuits of Experiences, Research and Knowledges, which is dedicated to strengthening international networks in contemporary art, with a strong focus on current curatorial discourses.

Ryan Meagher, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support a cross-cultural musical exchange, Lluvia Verde, that unites Xalapa’s Son Jarocho heroes with Portland's jazz innovators. Musicians from each city will collaborate on new compositions blending traditions and culminating in a performance at the Montavilla Jazz Festival, Aug. 29-31.

William Morrow, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $8,000

To support research travel, a publication and participation in programming for the major survey exhibition Morrow is guest curating for the Contemporary Art Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, Sept. 26 through Jan. 11, 2026. The exhibit is entitled “Ed Bereral: Wanted for Disturbing the Peace.”

Roger Peet, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,500

To support Peet’s exhibit of artwork at Gallery G in Hiroshima, Japan, in August for a collaborative installation with two other artists during the 80th anniversary commemoration of the use of the first atomic bomb.

LeBrie Rich, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,970

To support attending an 18-day artist residency in September at Ragdale, where Rich will develop a new body of work.

Tracy Schlapp, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation $2,500

To support travel to the Museum of International Folk Art to present about The PonyXpress and participate on a panel for the exhibition "Between the Lines: Prison Art & Advocacy;" to teach writing workshops; and to develop curriculum from the exhibition to publish on prison tablets nationwide.

Ketzia Schoneberg, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation $2,000

To support Schoneberg’s residency at Virginia Center for Creative Arts (VCCA) in Amherst, Virginia, from May 28 to June 9.

Stephanie Simek, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,458

To support the production of a new multi-media project to be made during an artist residency at the Museum of Glass in Tacoma, Washington, in November 2025.

Garrett Sluski, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation $3,750

To support Pepper Pepper’s first institutional solo visual arts exhibition “Pink Moment and Other Works” at Seattle Central College’s M. Rosetta Hunt Art Gallery in early fall 2025.

Andrea Stolowitz, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support the showing of Stolowitz’s new play, “Number Our Days,” as part of the 2025 Cork Midsummer Festival in Ireland June 13-22.

Chet Udell, Corvallis

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support a year-long artist residency at Hatfield Marine Science Center, where Udell will develop a combination of interactive environmental art installations, acoustic ecology sound compositions and community workshops that connect the coastal environment, community, science and the arts in Newport.

Samantha Wall, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $8,229

To support Wall’s 2026 solo exhibition at Seattle Art Museum, on display from February through September 2026.

Jonathan Walters, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,650

To support an opportunity for international collaboration, to create networking and groundwork-building opportunities to help theater artist Walters expand his career in Oregon and abroad; Walters will lead several different workshops and trainings in Zimbabwe in September.

Jennifer Wright, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support “Long Strings,” an immersive, interactive and visually stunning concert experience that will transform Zidell Shipyard’s cavernous barge building into a gigantic, one-of-a-kind sculptural musical instrument; the concert event is July 18-19.

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of Business Oregon (formerly Oregon Economic and Community Development Department) in 1993, in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon Legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission’s expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development. 

The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. More information about the Oregon Arts Commission is available online at: artscommission.oregon.gov.

This boating season looks to be a great one. To create great memories, the Oregon State Marine Board reminds boaters to be aware of their surroundings, have all the required gear, and let others know their recreation plans.            
 

“Part of the boating experience is the planning ahead, boating with others, and having someone be a steady lookout,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Oregon State Marine Board. “And of course, wearing a properly fitted life jacket for the boating activity should be at the top of all boaters' minds.”

The Marine Board has many resources to help boaters have a safe and enjoyable experience on all of Oregon’s waterways. The agency advises boaters to take the time to plan to use the Marine Board’s interactive boating access map. The map displays public boat ramps, local rules for boat operations, and other information about a facility, like the facility owner and amenities. Also, check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides. See if there are any reported obstructions using the agency’s obstructions map. Boaters can also check the Marine Board’s website to find out what equipment is required based on the size and type of boat. Have the right gear for the planned activities and make sure each passenger has a properly fitting US Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

The Marine Board would like to remind boaters to:

• Boat Sober. Abstain from consuming marijuana, drugs, or alcohol, which impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination and also cause dehydration. Boating demands sharp situational awareness. 
• All children 12 and under are required to wear a life jacket when underway on all boats (motorized and nonmotorized). All boaters on Class III whitewater rivers are required to wear a life jacket.
• Be courteous to other boaters and share the waterway. Stage your gear in the parking lot or staging area, regardless of your boat type. This makes launching faster and everyone around you happier.
• In Oregon, all motorboat operators with propulsion greater than 10 horsepower must take a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card when operating the boat. Paddlers of nonmotorized boats 10’ and longer are required to purchase a waterway access permit. The Marine Board also offers a free, online Paddling Course for boaters new to the activity.
• Fill out a float plan and leave it with friends and family. This way, they can call for help if you are overdue.

All of this information and more about safe boating in Oregon can be found at Boat.Oregon.gov. Use the search bar for fast results.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Assessor’s office property tax exemption specialists will be available to answer questions and enroll property owners in the county’s property tax relief program at an upcoming event in La Center.

The Tax Exemption Program for senior citizens and people with disabilities can reduce property tax liability for qualifying homeowners. Eligibility is based on age or disability, home ownership, residency, and income. Participants are not required to repay the taxes, and their homes are not subject to property liens.

Exemption specialists will be available to help enroll applicants at La Center City Hall, 210 E. Fourth St. from 9 am to 3 pm Friday, May 30.

To schedule an appointment for the enrollment event, call 564.397.2391 or email eduction@clark.wa.gov">taxreduction@clark.wa.gov. Walk-ins also are welcome. Homeowners interested in attending should bring photo ID, federal tax return, W-2 and/or 1099, and any deduction documentation. 

Learn more about the program and apply online at https://assessor-property-tax-exemption-program-clarkcountywa.hub.arcgis.com/.

The Civil Service Commission of Clackamas Fire will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. 

The meeting will be held via video remote conferencing and is open to the public to attend. If you would like to attend online or by phone, please visit our website for the Zoom meeting link and passcode at: https://clackamasfire.com/public-notices/.

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Nurses, patients, and community leaders are calling on Samaritan Health Services’ board of directors to keep hospital birth centers open at Samaritan hospitals in Lebanon and North Lincoln and protect residents’ access to local healthcare. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, May 21, 2025

BEND, OR — The High Desert Museum’s signature outdoor flight program, Raptors of the Desert Sky, returns beginning Saturday, May 24. The demonstration takes place daily during the summer at 11:30 am through Labor Day.

Hawks, owls, falcons and even turkey vultures soar from perch to perch directly over the crowd seated in a natural amphitheater nestled in the Museum’s ponderosa pine forest. A Museum expert narrates the action, sharing the hunting strategies and natural behaviors of these spectacular birds of prey, as well as what we can do to help preserve them in the wild.

The program takes place weather and air quality permitting. The Museum website will be updated to reflect any time changes, such as an earlier start time to accommodate for high temperatures that might stress the birds.

Tickets are separate from Museum entry ($8 for non-member adults, including seniors; $6 for children; members receive 20% discount) and are sold at Admissions for that day’s program until 11:00 am. They are not available online. Tickets often sell out before 10:00 am. The Museum strongly recommends that visitors arrive when the Museum opens at 9:00 am to secure tickets from Admissions.

Raptors of the Desert Sky is made possible by Fly Redmond, Avion Water Company and KTVZ News Channel 21, with support from Bigfoot Beverages. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/raptors-of-the-desert-sky.

In addition, the Museum’s summer schedule of daily talks begins on Saturday. Visitors can meet a mammal in the popular Desert Dwellers talk at 3:00 pm, and they can also learn about wolves, raptors and other High Desert species in other talks. Daily talks are free with admission. Talk details are at highdesertmuseum.org/daily-schedule.

The historic High Desert Ranger Station will be open weekends from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm starting Saturday, as well. In December 2024, the ranger station moved from its previous location at the front of the Museum to its new spot along the Fire in the Forest trail. The U.S. Forest Service ranger station was built east of the Sierra Nevada in 1933 and moved to the Museum in 2008 in partnership with the Pacific Northwest Forest Service Association of Forest Service retirees (known as the Old Smokeys). Old Smokeys and volunteers staff the station to engage with Museum visitors. The ranger station will be open daily starting July 1. The building’s history is at highdesertmuseum.org/high-desert-ranger-station.

Meanwhile, the 1904 Lazinka Sawmill will be up and running for three select days this summer: June 14, July 29 and August 28. From 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm each day, visitors can see an authentic sawmill used at the turn of the 20^th century to process wood with an enormous blade slicing through thick Oregon timber. Visitors can experience the magic of the sawmill for free with admission. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/lazinka-sawmill.

On July 16, visitors are invited to Welcome the Night with Museum staff and volunteers. The event takes place after hours from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm and celebrates sundown, the transition between day and night when nocturnal wildlife stirs. Participants are encouraged to bring a headlamp or flashlight and learn how a dark night sky free from light pollution is critical for wildlife. The family-friendly event includes telescope tours, insect discoveries, bat watching, a constellation tour, food and drinks for purchase, raffle prizes and more. Adults and children (3 and older) are $10. Children 2 and younger are free. Museum members receive 20% discount. Learn more and reserve tickets at highdesertmuseum.org/welcome-the-night-2025.

Visitors should keep in mind the indoor art exhibitions and galleries, as well. Patterns at Play: Fractals in Nature, an interactive and family-friendly exhibition, encourages kids and adults alike to build their own fractals and immerse themselves in the mesmerizing world of nature’s repeating patterns. The photographic artistry of Frank S. Matsura, a Japanese immigrant who set up a studio in rural Okanogan County, is on display in Frank S. Matsura: Portraits from the Borderland.

On July 5, the Museum opens its annual Art in the West juried exhibition and silent auction. Featuring more than 100 artworks ranging from watercolors and acrylics to photography and sculptures, the exhibition celebrates the landscapes, wildlife, people, cultures and history of the High Desert. Discover more about the Museum’s exhibitions at highdesertmuseum.org/exhibitions.

Learn more about visiting the Museum at highdesertmuseum.org.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.

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Vancouver, WA – The Clark County Historical Museum’s popular program History on Tap returns Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the historic Kiggins Theatre (1011 Main Street, Vancouver, WA) with “History on Tap: Vancouver Ballet Folklorico Presents – TOUR OF MÉXICO.”

This dynamic and engaging evening will take audiences on a visual and musical journey through Mexico with Vancouver Ballet Folklórico. The program will showcase authentic dances from various regions of the country, highlighting the rich cultural diversity of Mexican traditions through music, fashion, and storytelling. From the southern states to the northern borders, each dance offers a unique glimpse into Mexico’s vibrant heritage. The evening will also include a fashion show of traditional costumes and live performances by VBF dancers.

Founded nearly 12 years ago in Vancouver, Vancouver Ballet Folklórico is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and engaging children of Hispanic descent through traditional Mexican dance. Led by founder and director Anna Cruz, whose commitment to cultural preservation has earned her accolades such as the Keeper of the Culture Award, the 2024 Iris Awards, and the Latino Art BRAVO Award, VBF has become a beloved cultural institution in Clark County.

“TOUR OF MÉXICO” promises to educate, inspire, and entertain—making it a perfect summer outing for families, history buffs, and lovers of culture and dance.

Tickets are $5 in advance, $10 at the door, and free for Clark County Historical Museum members. Purchase online at Kigginstheatre.com.

This event is made possible by the generous support of VDA, Heritage Bank, Port of Vancouver, and Giving Solutions Group.

For more information, visit cchmuseum.org or call 360-993-5679.

On May 1, 2025, Daniel Stuebgen (54 years old), was found guilty by a Lincoln County jury of five separate incidents of child sexual abuse, conduct he perpetrated in 2023 on an twelve-year-old who was volunteering at Happy Trails Feed & Tack (Lincoln City) and Green Acres Beach & Trail Rides (Pacific City), two businesses owned by Stuebgen and his ex-wife, Teresa Stuebgen.

After a five-day trial, a Lincoln County jury found Stuebgen guilty of three counts of Rape in the Second Degree, two counts of Sodomy in the Second Degree, four counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree and four counts of Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct. All of these offenses are subject to mandatory Measure 11 prison sentences under ORS 137.700.

This case was investigated by Detective Bud Lane of the Lincoln City Police Department and prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace.

The Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the Lincoln City Police Department and the Children’s Advocacy Center for their excellent work and perseverance in helping this child receive justice.

Stuebgen is scheduled to be sentenced by Lincoln County Circuit Court Judge Sheryl Bachart on June 3 at 3:00 PM.

Any questions can be directed to DA Jenna Wallace at 541-265-4145.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On May 9, 2025, Ryan Michael Hancock, age 23, was convicted of rape in the first degree, unlawful sexual penetration in the first degree, sexual abuse in the first degree, and three counts of sexual abuse in the second degree. Senior Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman prosecuted the defendant before Judge Erik Buchér.

On August 20, 2020, the 18-year-old defendant met the first victim, a 15-year-old girl, at a party. The defendant gave the teenager alcohol, and she became extremely intoxicated. Later that night, the defendant took the victim to his car where he raped and sexually assaulted her. She told him no several times but was too impaired to stop the attack. She disclosed the abuse to her friend the next day and disclosed to loved ones and Hillsboro police in 2021.

In March of 2022, the defendant drove to the second victim’s house and convinced her to get into his car. He and a friend drove the 17-year-old victim to a park and forced her to drink alcohol and smoke marijuana despite her repeated objections. She became intoxicated. The defendant sexually assaulted her and refused to let her leave. The victim was able to text a friend for help. The friend went to the park and saw the victim get out of the defendant’s car in a state of undress. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

Investigators fear there could be additional victims. Anyone with information about Mr. Hancock should contact law enforcement.

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the victim for their bravery in reporting this abuse. This office also acknowledges the work of the Hillsboro Police Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 30, 2025.

The Portland Police Bureau is releasing a second photo of Joan Ivan in hopes that it will help in locating the missing endangered woman. In the photo, Joan is wearing glasses and detectives believe she was wearing the glasses when she left her residence.

Since Monday afternoon, there have been three possible sightings of Joan in the Cully and Old Town Neighborhoods. PPB would like to thank the community for phoning in those tips. In addition, PPB is renewing its plea to the community to remain vigilant and call 911 if they spot Joan. 

Anyone with information that is not time sensitive is asked to contact detectives at missing@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 25-130789.  

Photo description: Joan Ivan wearing glasses

Photo description: Joan Ivan’s DMV photo

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Original Message Below

The Portland Police Bureau is requesting the public’s help in locating a missing endangered woman.

On the morning of Monday, May 19, 2025, the Portland Police Bureau received a call about a missing woman identified as Joan Ivan. Officers determined the 81-year-old left her residence near Northeast Stanton Street and North Williams Avenue between 3:00 p.m. on Friday, May 16 and 9:00 a.m. on Monday, May 19. Detectives are concerned about Joan because she has dementia.

Joan is described as a Caucasian female, 5’5” tall, and 110 lbs. While it is unclear what she is currently wearing, Joan was last seen in glasses, a long sleeve shirt, a Columbia rain jacket, and black and white leggings. Joan is known to frequent Dawson Park and the nearby New Seasons.   

Anyone who sees Joan is urged to call 911. Anyone with information that is not time sensitive is asked to contact detectives at missing@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 25-130789.

Photo description: Joan Ivan’s DMV photo

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VANCOUVER, Wash. — On Tuesday, May 20, community members, students, and Vancouver Public Schools Leadership celebrated the opening of the Endeavour Technical Trades Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Hudson’s Bay High School.

Date: May 20, 2025

Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: Hudson’s Bay High School
                1601 E McLoughlin Blvd., Vancouver, WA

The state-of-the-art building, made possible by The Endeavour Fund, is an additional 7,500 square feet of workspace for Vancouver Public Schools’ students to learn and engage in hands-on training in areas like foundations, framing, plumbing, HVAC, electrical work, and other fundamental construction skills. In the new building, the students will be able to use simulators for forklifts, mobile cranes, and other heavy equipment. 

Eighty students will pilot the program in the upcoming 2025-26 school year, and the program will expand to 100 students in the 2026-27 school year. 

The dedication plaque, unveiled at the event, highlights the vision that made this a reality: “This building stands as a testament to the vision and commitment of our donors and community partners - empowering students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to build fulfilling careers and enrich our community for generations to come.”

For Media: photos and videos from the event can be found here.

For this initiative, the Foundation for VPS played a vital role by leading collaboration with donors, community partners, and district staff, achieving a 100% donor-funded project, with no bond or taxpayer money used, thanks to the support of The Endeavour Fund and the district’s generous community and business partners. Thank you to all who made this building possible:

The Endeavour Fund

Quail Homes

Building Futures Foundation

Bunch Construction, Inc

Cascade Wire Works, LLC

Cascade Electrical

CEG Engineering, Inc

Christenson Electrical

Covalent Architecture, LLC

First Impressions Concrete, LLC

Frontier Metal Fabrications

Greenwood Painting, LLC

Jack’s Overhead Door, Inc

JNB Mechanical, Inc

Legacy 6, LLC

MacKay Sposito

Meteor Education

MJS Contracting, Inc

Nucor

Patriot Fire Protection, Inc

PBS Engineering & Environmental 

Point Monitor Corporation

Pro Property Services, LLC

River City Enterprises, Inc

Steward Mechanical, Inc

Stoner Electric Group

Westmore Construction, LLC

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The Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools is an independent, 501(c)3 educational non-profit corporation established in 1988 to support Vancouver Public Schools (VPS). Governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of business, community, and education leaders, the foundation creates opportunities to cultivate and inspire student success. As an educational non-profit entity, the foundation serves students at all 40 VPS schools and programs, providing direct aid to students facing learning barriers due to economic need, as well as financial assistance for learning enrichment and mentoring programs that cannot be funded by the school district. The Foundation for VPS is supported by donations from school employees, parents, students, community members, businesses and foundations.

(Salem, OR) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) announced that Child Welfare Director Aprille Flint-Gerner accepted a position with Casey Family Programs as Senior Director of Strategic Consulting. The new role will allow her to continue the work of improving the well-being of children and families, but at a national level, while also giving her more flexibility to take care of family needs. Flint-Gerner’s last day at ODHS will be June 20.

During her tenure, Flint-Gerner expanded the Child Welfare leadership team to better support investments in data-driven improvements, safety practice and workforce development.

“I am grateful for Aprille’s strong leadership over the past two years as Child Welfare Director. In her new role, I know she will continue to lead needed changes in child welfare that will positively affect children and families nationwide,” said ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht. 

Rolanda Garcia, a leader with nearly three decades of experience within ODHS, will serve as interim Child Welfare director. Garcia has held a variety of leadership roles in both Child Welfare  and ODHS’s Self-Sufficiency Programs, focusing on improving the experience of people served by the agency. She is known for building strong community partnerships to better serve Oregonians and data-driven decision-making.

“Rolanda brings a deep knowledge of Child Welfare and Self-Sufficiency Programs, as well as a strong commitment to advancing Child Welfare’s priorities of keeping children safe within their homes and communities. I am confident her strong management and business operations background will benefit Child Welfare,” Director Fariborz Pakseresht said.

Flint-Gerner, who joined ODHS Child Welfare as Deputy Director of Equity, Training and Workforce Development in 2020, served as director for the past two years. Flint-Gerner championed a wide-reaching child safety initiative this year and oversaw the successful rollout of a program designed to better support families and prevent a possible Child Welfare intervention. Child safety and family support programs have contributed to a decline in the number of children in Oregon’s foster care system, from a high of 7,908 in 2018, to 4,481 at the close of 2024.

“We have a strong foundation in Child Welfare thanks to Aprille’s leadership and the team she built around her,” Pakseresht said. “Rolanda’s combination of broad and deep experience will enable her to build upon the progress underway to improve the lives of children and families in Oregon.”

About the Oregon Department of Human Services
The mission of ODHS is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve well-being and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.

5/20/2025 – Lincoln County, Or
 

To help meet changing community needs, our office establishes a new strategic plan every four years. This process is one way we continue to find ways to improve and grow with our communities. Although each plan may look a little different, we remain committed to our mission to enhance public safety, reduce the fear and impact of crime, and improve quality of life. 

Considering our communities’ dynamic and varying needs, three overarching areas rose to the top: team growth and development, organizational excellence and customer service, and community safety and collaboration.

The three goals in this plan are:

• Enhance team safety, growth, and retention by creating a safer, more engaging and wellness-focused environment.
• Foster organizational excellence, earn and maintain public trust, and deliver outstanding service through continuous improvement, transparency, and  prioritizing community needs.
• Enhance community safety and improve quality of life for residents and visitors through proactive law enforcement, collaboration, and innovative solutions.

Our team takes serving our community seriously. We will work tirelessly to meet community expectations and achieve our mission, while using this strategic plan as a roadmap for the next 4 years. Together we can continue to build a safer, pro-active community where all are treated with respect.

View the full strategic plan here: www.co.lincoln.or.us/DocumentCenter/View/4940/STRATEGIC-PLAN-2025---2028---Final?bidId=
 

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The Portland Police Bureau held their annual Police Memorial Ceremony today, Tuesday, May 20, at 12:00 p.m. at the Portland Police Memorial, located in Waterfront Park. The memorial service included the Portland Police Honor Guard, music from the Portland Police Highland Guard, a 21-gun salute, and a water display from Portland Fire & Rescue. Mayor Keith Wilson, Chief Bob Day, Portland Police Association President Aaron Schmautz and Assistant Chief Amanda McMillan spoke at the ceremony.

This year a new officer’s name was added to the Portland Police Memorial: Patrolman Andrew James Laugeson, who was killed in the line of duty on May 12, 1917, after he was thrown to the pavement while trying to board a moving streetcar.

Patrolman Laugeson’s name was discovered when Portland Police Historical Society board members were researching historic news articles about Portland officers killed in the line of duty.  They discovered that Patrolman Laugeson was one of nine fallen officers recognized in the 1920s, but that his name was not included on memorial walls. Through their exhaustive research efforts, they were able to verify and document the way he died for submission and inclusion to local, state and national police memorial walls. Today, Chief Bob Day presented the Memorial Flag to the great-grandson of Patrolman Laugeson.

Since 1870, 30 Portland Police officers and two police canines have been killed in the line-of-duty in service to the City of Portland.
 

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls, as National Police Week. Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. Due to scheduling conflicts, the Portland Police Memorial Ceremony was held this week.
 

The Portland Police Memorial was built through the efforts of the Portland Police Historical Society and was dedicated during National Police Week in May 1993 by President George H.W. Bush. To learn more about the Portland Police Historical Society, visit:   https://www.portlandpolicemuseum.com/

Photo description1: Portland Police Chief Bob Day salutes presents the Memorial Flag

Photo description: The great-grandson of Patrolman Andrew Laugeson participates in adding the streamer with Honor Guard

Photo description: Honor Guard performing the 21-gun salute

Photo description: Portland Fire & Rescue Fire Boat display

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Lane County, Ore. 20 May 2025- On Monday, May 19, 2025, at 7:30 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 58, near milepost 18, in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Toyota Hilux, operated by Martin Tammekivi (37) of Oregon City, was approaching slowed traffic when it entered the eastbound lane and was struck on the passenger side door by an eastbound Dodge 2500, operated by Benjamin Norman Myles (28) of Eugene. 

The operator of the Toyota (Tammekivi) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Dodge (Myles) suffered minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation. 

OSP was assisted by Lowell Rural Fire, Dexter Rural Fire, and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Klamath County, Ore. 20 May 2025- On Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 2:54 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 140, near milepost 1, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Dodge Durango, operated by Forrest Clinton George Fairchild (40) of Klamath Falls, struck a disabled Honda CRV that was partially blocking the eastbound lane. The Honda was occupied by Kaylee Rae Volpe (18) of Klamath Falls and a male juvenile (17) was in front of the vehicle attempting to diagnose the failure. The male juvenile was thrown over a bridge barrier and into the Klamath River.

The operator of the Dodge (Fairchild) suffered minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Jeep (Volpe) was reportedly uninjured.

The passenger of the Jeep (male juvenile) was declared deceased after being recovered from the Klamath River.

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Klamath County Sheriff's Office, Klamath County Fire District #1, Klamath County Fire District #4, Klamath County Dive Rescue, and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Curry County, Ore. 20 May 2025- On Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 6:21 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 101, near milepost 300, in Curry County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Jeep Patriot, operated by Wylie Joe Summerlin (62) of Port Orford, attempted to avoid a deer in the roadway, swerved off of the highway, and struck a tree. 

The operator of the Jeep (Summerlin), who was not wearing a seatbelt, was declared deceased after being transported to a nearby hospital.

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Port Orford Fire Department, Port Orford Police Department, Curry County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Update: Operation concludes as investigators depart facility

On May 18, just before 10 p.m., investigators concluded their search of the West Coast Game Park Safari and cleared the area. As a result of the search, 310 animals were seized and relocated to accredited and/or permitted animal sanctuary or rescue facilities. No animals were released into the wild or unattended as a result of the search warrants.

Unfortunately, due to their physical condition, a chicken and a kinkajou were euthanized. This is in addition to the camel that was euthanized on the first day of the search and is not the young camel featured in the previously distributed photograph.

Investigators are now processing all of the evidence obtained during their four-day search of the property. Due to the ongoing investigation and future adjudication of the case, no further information is available for release.

Oregon State Police thanks our partners and the multiple animal sanctuary and rescue organizations who assisted during the multiday incident. These efforts would not have been possible or successful without their continued assistance.

Update: Animal care specialists continue assessing animal welfare at West Coast Game Park Safari

A complete inventory and forensic assessment of animals is continuing today and seized animals will be transported to appropriate, reputable facilities where they will receive specialized veterinary care. The preplanning for the operation accounted for the relocation of all seized animals.

Veterinarians and staff with the Oregon Humane Society, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Oregon Department of Agriculture evaluated animal welfare on scene. This assessment includes an animal’s physical condition, food quality, water supply, sanitation, enclosure conditions, and care sufficient to preserve their health and well-being.

Animal care has been a primary consideration during the investigation. Teams of veterinary staff evaluated dietary needs of the animals and supplied fresh feed for each species. The Oregon Humane Society purchased food and staff from all agencies are assisting in animal feeding.

During initial assessments on Thursday, May 15, one camel was diagnosed with multiple serious medical conditions and suffering. Onsite veterinary staff determined the animal’s condition was sufficiently grave and treatment or transportation would likely result in death. Unfortunately, humane euthanasia was the appropriate option.

This operation is the result of extensive planning and collaboration with multiple agencies. The delicate and complex nature of the investigation and search warrant operation required significant cooperation between the involved agencies, veterinary professionals, and numerous facilities that are accredited and/or permitted to care for these animals.  

Media: B-Roll Video

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COOS COUNTY, Ore. 15 May 2025 – This morning, May 15, 2025, the Oregon State Police, in coordination with local, state, and federal partners, served multiple search warrants at the West Coast Game Park Safari near Bandon.

The search warrants are the result of a lengthy criminal investigation into the facility’s operations. Investigators are searching the property for additional evidence related to the investigation, including animal care and welfare, permitting, licensing, and business practices.

Oregon State Police is working in conjunction with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Humane Society, Oregon Department of Agriculture, Coos County Sheriff’s Office, Coos County District Attorney’s Office, Oregon Department of Justice, and the IRS Criminal Investigation. Participating agencies provide regulatory oversight or bring specialized expertise in animal care to assist investigators with evaluating evidence gathered during the property search. 

Limited information is available for release during the ongoing criminal investigation. OSP is the primary contact for questions regarding today’s search warrants.
 

The park is closed while police activity is present. Community members and visitors are encouraged to avoid the facility.    

A follow-up news release is planned for Friday, May 16, 2025. 

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About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that protects Oregon's people, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon. 

TriMet Seeks $190M-$290M for Interstate Bridge Light Rail Vehicles 
Charging Taxpayers up to $15M per vehicle—Triple its $4.5M Cost

[Vancouver, WA] – Washington State Representative John Ley has issued a stark warning to Clark County taxpayers regarding Portland’s TriMet transit agency’s escalating demands for the Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) program. According to Ley, TriMet is attempting to overcharge taxpayers for new MAX light rail vehicles, with costs soaring far beyond previous contracts.

In a recent statement on X, and an opinion piece in Clark County Today, Rep. John Ley criticized TriMet’s actions, declaring, “TriMet is trying to fleece taxpayers with inflated costs for light rail vehicles tied to the I-5 Interstate Bridge Replacement project.” A public record request uncovered that four months before the Washington and Oregon governors revived the failed Columbia River Crossing (CRC) project in 2019—a project that collapsed in 2014 when the Oregon Legislature refused funding—TriMet had ordered 26 new Siemens light rail vehicles (LRVs) for $147 million. According to Ley, this averaged under $5 million per vehicle, including parts, manuals, and training. TriMet later paid $4.5 million each for four additional vehicles for its Better Red project under the same 2019 contract.

However, Ley found a significant discrepancy in TriMet’s current demands for the IBR project. “TriMet officials have been telling the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program the cost for 19 new vehicles they demand will be between $190 million and $290 million, or $10 million to $15 million each,” Ley emphasized the need for transparency. “They’re demanding 19 new vehicles at a price that’s more than double what they paid just a few years ago—taxpayers deserve transparency.” 

The IBR program itself has seen significant cost escalations. In December 2022, IBR Administrator Greg Johnson updated the project’s cost estimates to a range of $5 billion to $7.5 billion, targeting $6 billion, with the transit component’s high-end cost reaching $2 billion. As part of this, TriMet is demanding Clark County contribute annually to support operations and maintenance for a 1.8-mile MAX Yellow Line extension into Vancouver, alongside the 19 additional light rail vehicles. Ley argues these vehicles are unnecessary for the short extension. 

TriMet’s financial stability and ridership trends further fuel Ley’s concerns. The MAX Yellow Line recorded only 10,611 weekday riders in 2024—70% below the projected 35,320 by 2020. System-wide, TriMet provided 62.3 million boardings in fiscal year 2024, a 29.7% decline since 2014, with MAX light rail ridership dropping 37.7%. The agency reported an $850 million operating loss last year, prompting warnings of a “fiscal cliff” by 2031 without significant bailouts. “Committing Clark County taxpayers to a struggling transit system with questionable financial management is a risky proposition,” Ley cautioned.

Rep. Ley urges the C-TRAN Board and Washington legislators to reconsider long-term financial agreements with TriMet, especially as the Oregon Legislature faces a multi-billion-dollar shortfall for transportation projects. He advocates for prioritizing a third Columbia River bridge, conducting and independent study on an Immersed Tube Tunnel, or replacing the light rail component with cost-effective bus rapid transit to better serve the regions needs.

About John Ley

John Ley is a Washington State Representative serving the 18th Legislative District. A vocal advocate for fiscal responsibility and efficient transportation solutions, Ley focuses on protecting Clark County taxpayers from costly and unsustainable projects.  
 

About Neighbors for a Better Crossing

A grassroots coalition of concerned residents and businesses from Oregon and Washington, united in advocating for an Immersed Tube Tunnel (ITT)—an innovative solution that will save billions in taxpayer dollars, eliminate the need for tolls, safeguard the Columbia River’s delicate ecosystem and marine life, and preserve the historic I-5 Bridge as a car-free gateway for tourism, pedestrians and cyclists between Oregon and Washington. We are urging legislators to convene an independent commission to evaluate the ITT alternative before locking taxpayers into a $9 billion+ financial disaster.

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Registration is open; register by June 27

This summer, Portland’s Safe Blocks program is helping neighbors host parties in their neighborhoods through the Party On, Portland! event from August 1 through August 14. These parties are a great way to meet your neighbors, discover local resources, strengthen community bonds, and celebrate safety and unity.

Interested in hosting a party? Register by June 27 at https://www.portland.gov/community-safety/pop. You can get a free permit to close off your street, receive a free noise variance, have Portland safety partners visit your party, and much more!

Questions? Contact Safe Blocks at safeblocksprogram@portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-4064.

If you are looking to host an event with Night Out for Safety and Liberation or another national organization, please register through those organizations.

The motorcyclist killed in a crash on May 13, 2025, has been identified as David A. Dahlen, 55, of Portland. His family has been notified of his death.

Anyone with information about this crash, who has not spoken with police, is asked to contact imetips@police.portlandoregon.gov" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov attention Traffic Investigations Unit and reference case number 25-125041.

This is the ninth traffic-related fatality of 2025.

###PPB###

Original Message Below

A motorcyclist is deceased following a crash in Southeast Portland.

On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at approximately 2:00 p.m., East Precinct officers responded to the area of Southeast 80^th Avenue and Southeast Powell Boulevard on reports of a crash involving a motorcyclist and a van. When they arrived, officers located an adult male motorcyclist suffering from serious injuries. The individual was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The driver of the van stayed at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation.

The Portland Police Bureau’s Major Crash Team is responding to investigate. Several blocks of Southeast Powell Boulevard will be closed to traffic during the investigation.  

Anyone with information about this crash is asked to contact imetips@police.portlandoregon.gov">crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov attention Traffic Investigations Unit and reference case number 25-125041.

###PPB###

Advanced Precision Anodizing is committed to the safety and health of its employees, so much so that the Wood Village company has completed its first year in Oregon OSHA’s Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP).

SHARP, primarily set up to help small- and mid-sized employers, coaches employers on how to effectively manage workplace safety and health. The program encourages Oregon employers to work with their employees to identify and correct hazards and to continuously improve. In turn, companies are recognized for their success in reaching specific benchmarks during the five-year program. An employer may graduate from SHARP after five years of participation.

Advanced Precision Anodizing is a family-owned business that provides protective and decorative finishing services, including anodize, chromate, passivate, bead blast, graining, and laser marking. With guidance from Oregon OSHA consultants, the company has achieved first-year SHARP status, a reflection of its dedication to going beyond minimum safety and health requirements, involving its employees in safety and health decisions, and building a culture of safety and health – among other improvements.

Advanced Precision Anodizing joined SHARP with a focus on growing its safety and health program and with a history of improvement: The company experienced zero injuries from 2022 to 2024. The company celebrated its first-year SHARP award in April.

“Our company is excited to be part of the SHARP program,” said Adriana Baehr, environmental chemist and environment, health, and safety manager for Advanced Precision Anodizing. “Keeping our employees safe is our top priority. When employees know they will go home safe to their families at the end of every work shift, we become more successful overall. It is good for employees, and it is good for management.”

The benefits of the SHARP program, which is part of Oregon OSHA’s free consultation services, include lower injury and illness rates, decreased workers’ compensation costs, increased employee morale, lower product losses, and community recognition.

Learn more about SHARP and Oregon OSHA’s free consultation services, which include hazard assessments, recommendations to control and eliminate hazards, written program evaluations, and hands-on training. Consultations involve no fault, no citations, and no penalties. Oregon OSHA consultants in workplace safety, industrial hygiene, and ergonomics can help employers reduce accidents and related costs and develop comprehensive programs to manage safety and health.

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About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Salem, Ore. – The City of Salem has initiated an investigation into the presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) at the Salem-Willamette Valley Airport, including locations that have historically been used for firefighting foam testing and training, like the Salem Fire Department’s Station 6 on-site training area. This investigation was prompted by the discovery of PFAS in the soil at development site on the south end of the Airport property.

These proactive measures to better understand the risk and exposure in these areas will help the City take steps to further ensure the safety, health and well-being of Fire Department staff, as well as Airport employees, tenants and prospective developers.

“We remain fully committed to working collaboratively and transparently with all stakeholders as we come to better understand what we're dealing with on the Airport property,” said Interim City Manager, Krishna Namburi. “Protecting public health and supporting our firefighters, our airport tenants and the broader community remains our top priority. Together, we will move forward responsibly and do what’s right.”

Next Steps: Soil and Groundwater Samples to Learn More

To better understand the presence of PFAS at the Airport, including at the Fire Station 6 training area, over the coming months, the City plans to:

• Test soil and groundwater samples taken from areas where firefighting foam was used
• Evaluate potential exposure risks to Fire Department and Airport personnel
• Assess possible environmental impacts, potential risks to human health and the environment associated with any identified impacts, and appropriate measures to address those potential risks
• Update City Council, the Fire Department and firefighters, the Airport Advisory Commission and Airport tenants, and developers of new airport projects through regular communications
• Communicate with our community through City channels such as social media, CityofSalem.net, the newsletter, and Council meetings and media
• Coordinate with regulatory authorities to appropriately respond to the investigation’s findings as DEQ and the EPA continue to develop PFAS regulations

PFAS in Aircraft Firefighting

PFAS are used in many commercial products designed to resist heat, water and oil, such as water-resistant clothing, food packaging and nonstick cookware. The Federal Aviation Administration has required the use of aqueous film-forming foam — also called fire-fighting foam — a PFAS-containing substance, in mandated training and testing. Until Sept. 27, 2024, the Salem Fire Department used this foam during its required training exercises at the Airport, particularly at the Salem Fire Department’s Station 6 training area.

The City will continue to share information about its investigation into the use of PFAS at the Airport. For more information, visit the City’s PFAS webpage.

Opening day to feature launch of new “Full Basket” program, singer-songwriter Brenna Larsen, children’s activities & more

Portland, Oregon, May 20, 2025 – Rocky Butte Farmers Market opens for the season this Saturday, May 24 at its NE Siskiyou and 80th Ave. location, 9 am-1 pm.

The market will feature more than 20 vendors, educational programming and an exciting new community-care initiative called pahtl o’-pe-kwan in Chinuk Wawa — or “Full Basket”, that will provide needed support for those visiting the Roseway neighborhood market. Rocky Butte is the first market of the season to launch Full Basket.
 

The new program is thanks to a generous collaboration led by the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) and the Cully, Woodlawn, and Rocky Butte farmers markets that have teamed up to provide $50 in weekly tokens to market patrons who are receiving supplemental government assistance, which can be used to purchase produce, meat, eggs, fish, and more. 
 

Opening Day will Feature:

• Live Music by popular local singer-songwriter Brenna Larsen: https://www.brennalarsenmusic.com/
   

• Community Educator Caitlyn Whitcomb will launch the season’s Kids’ Booth activities. Early birds have the best chance of getting a $5 kids token to spend at the market.
   

• Roseway Prepares will be spreading awareness of NET (Neighborhood Emergency Team) at the market’s non-profit booth.
   

• A representative from Multnomah County will be at the market to distribute free Narcan and provide training/answer questions. (https://multco.us/info/overdose-prevention)

In addition to “Full Basket,” Rocky Butte Farmers Market provides a number of other ways to make shopping at the market easier and more affordable: 

• SNAP recipients can double their purchasing power with up to $20 matched per visit thanks to Double Up Food Bucks;

• shoppers who arrive by bus or bike can receive a $5tokens, thanks to the Metro RTC grant;

• access to essential resources such as SNAP eligibility screenings through Hunger-Free Oregon and regular distribution of free COVID tests and naloxone to support public health and safety in our community.

Each week Rocky Butte Farmers Market collects excess food from vendors to donate directly to Mainspring Pantry. This keeps high-quality, locally grown produce and handmade baked goods within the community to ensure that everyone has access to fresh, seasonal food, regardless of income.
 

New to the market this year will be Veg-Education and food demos in collaboration with high school students in McDaniel High School’s Sustainable Agriculture CTE Program. This initiative focuses on lesser-known, in-season produce and helps educate shoppers on how to incorporate these foods into their weekly meals. Veg-Education will include student-tested recipes, an educational zine, storage and preparation tips to reduce food waste, a social media campaign, and live cooking demos at the market.
 

More than just a market, Rocky Butte Farmers Market strives to be an impactful community resource - collaborating with neighboring food pantries, nonprofits, and gardens to provide services to underserved community members, increase access to education and food security, and positively impact the ecology, health, and overall community well-being.

Rocky Butte Farmers Market will open Saturday, May 24, 2025, in the Roseway neighborhood at NE Siskiyou, between 79th and 81st. The Market runs every Saturday, 9 am-1 pm through October 25.
 

Learn more about the market, this year's vendors, the weekly entertainment or apply to be a vendor at www.rockybuttemarket.com. Follow the market on Instagram at @rockybuttefarmersmarket and Facebook at @RockyButteFarmersMarket to stay informed on news and updates.
 

2025 Vendor List: 

• Bioenergeteic Balance

• Bread Box

• Delectable Delights

• Fresh Love

• Joyful Sudz

• Klay Arsenault Art & Illustration

• La Comelona Foods

• Mainspring

• Modern Medicinals CBD

• Mr Baklava

• New Deal Distillery

• Oil Slick Coffee

• OneUp Farm

• Pablo Munoz Farms

• Parkrose Greenhouse

• Ripe Fig Farm

• Rowen Forest

• Simpson’s Refill Co.

• Sweetpea’s

• Tres Angelitos y un Colibrí

• TT’s Bakehouse

• Vozee Custom Leather & Dye

• Whisper of Essence

​

Plus more at the community table!

• Vorfreude Dairy Beef

• Under the Pines GF Bread

• Local produce

Media Advisory – All Media Are Invited

What: Detrash Portland, sponsored by CareOregon

When: Wednesday, May 21, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Where: 315 SW 5th Ave Portland, OR 97204| Map Link

Event Description: Join SOLVE for a community-driven initiative to prepare Downtown Portland and the SW Waterfront for the annual Rose Festival. Together with CareOregon and the Portland Rose Festival Foundation, volunteers will beautify our public spaces, ensuring a clean and welcoming environment for festival visitors, and make a positive impact during one of the city’s most cherished events.

Why: Portland's business districts are the heartbeat of our city and keeping them clean is vital to our economy and the environment. Litter poses a significant threat to our community's well-being, affecting the aesthetics and overall health of our streets, neighborhoods, and waterways. SOLVE's mission is to create opportunities for individuals and businesses to give back to their communities and play a critical role in maintaining the beauty and integrity of our city from the harmful effects of trash. Together, we can create a cleaner, more inviting downtown that reflects our pride in the city and care for our community.

Media Crews: Arrive by 9:45 am outside of the CareOregon offices on 5th Ave to see approximately 100 volunteers of all ages checking in, collecting their cleanup supplies, receiving a safety speech and event overview, and then heading out in groups to pick up litter in the surrounding area. The event will run from 10 am to 12 pm, with volunteers expected to spread throughout the Downtown area and the SW Waterfront.

This event will have plenty of visuals of volunteers picking up litter, making for great community packages, VOs, and VOSOTS.

Available interviewees: 

• Kris Carico, Chief Executive Officer, SOLVE
• Kayleen VanDuzer, Senior Community Impact and Events Specialist, CareOregon

Detrash Portland 2025 is presented by The Standard, Fed Meyer, CareOregon, Miller Nash, Swire Coca Cola, and Dunn Carney.

Visit the Detrash Portland page on the SOLVE website or the event registration page for more information.

About SOLVE:

SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. You can follow SOLVE on Instagram at @SOLVEinOregon, Facebook at @SOLVEOregon, or at www.solveoregon.org. 

CCHM Speaker Series Explores the National Legacy of Fort Vancouver

Special Event Features Curator Meagan Huff at Fort Vancouver Visitor Center – June 5, 2025

VANCOUVER, WA — The Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) is proud to present a special edition of its Speaker Series, "Fort Vancouver and the Story of America," on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center (1501 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661). Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the program begins at 7:00 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public, though seating is limited and pre-registration is encouraged.

This compelling evening will be led by Meagan Huff, museum curator at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and a longtime Vancouver resident. Huff will delve into the rich and evolving history of Fort Vancouver, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most significant historical sites. From its beginnings as a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post to its modern role as a National Park Service landmark, Fort Vancouver tells a story that reflects the broader American experience.

The presentation will highlight:

• The founding and historical significance of Fort Vancouver
   

• Archaeological discoveries that shed new light on the site’s past
   

• The fort’s role in the broader national narrative of colonialism, migration, and military presence
   

• How our understanding and interpretation of the site have evolved over time
   

Huff has served in museum collections management at Fort Vancouver since 2010. She holds degrees in History, Art History, and Museum Studies from the University of Washington and brings both academic expertise and personal passion to her work.

This special installment of the CCHM Speaker Series is made possible by the generous support of the Historic Preservation Commission, Pomeroy Living History Farm, and Vancouver Sign.

For more information and to pre-register, please visit www.cchmuseum.org or contact Sammuel Hawkins at Outreach@cchmuseum.org or 360-993-5679.

About the Clark County Historical Museum
The Clark County Historical Museum has served the region since 1964, dedicated to gathering, preserving, and sharing the stories of Clark County and the Pacific Northwest. Through exhibits, public programs, and community partnerships, CCHM fosters a deeper understanding of our shared heritage.

Media Release Update: Two Charged Related to Shooting in Bethany Neighborhood

On May 14, 2025, just before 9:45 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to a home in the 7100 block of NW Abigail Terrace in the Bethany community. Multiple people called 911 to report a man had been shot in the face and was in the street.

Deputies were on scene quickly and located the victim nearby and began giving him immediate medical care. Other deputies surrounded the house and the suspect came out, still holding a gun. The man obeyed orders to drop the gun, and deputies arrested him.

Detectives from the Violent Crimes Unit responded to the scene. The shooting suspect was identified as 26-year-old Oliver Bracey, who lived at the home.

The bullet struck the victim, a 35-year-old man, in his cheek and exited behind his ear. He was taken to Emanuel Hospital for medical treatment.

Deputies also detained another person who came out of the house, 30-year-old Ella Juarez-Farina. Deputies learned there were four children inside the home at the time of the shooting and another child outside.

Detectives determined Juarez-Farina and Bracey both had guns and threatened the victim. Bracey then shot the man in the face. Prior to the shooting, Juarez-Farina assaulted and strangled the victim. She also assaulted and strangled one of the children inside the home.

On May 19, 2025, a Washington County grand jury heard evidence in this case and indicted Bracey on the following charges:

• Attempted murder in the second degree with a firearm
• Assault in the first degree
• Two counts of unlawful use of a weapon

Juarez-Farina was indicted on the following charges:

• Assault in the second degree
• Three counts of assault in the fourth degree (felony, domestic violence)
• Criminal mistreatment in the first degree
• Three counts of strangulation (domestic violence)
• Five counts of unlawful use of a weapon

If you have information about any of the involved people, please call the Sheriff’s Office at 503-846-2700.

Deputies Respond to Shooting in Bethany Neighborhood (Photo)

On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 9:42 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a disturbance with a weapon involving a firearm near the 7000 block of NW Abigail Terrace in North Bethany.

911 callers reported hearing a gunshot and people running from the location. Responding deputies contained the area and discovered a man had been shot in the face. The injured person was transported by ambulance to an area hospital.

The shooter surrendered to deputies without incident.

Investigators with the Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit (VCU) responded to assist with the investigation. Additional information will be released as the investigation progresses.

If you were a witness to the incident and have not spoken to investigators, please contact the Sheriff's Office at 503-846-2700 and reference case number 50-25-6739.

MEDFORD, Ore.— Saul Uriel Nunez-Vega, 24, a Mexican national unlawfully residing in Jackson County, Oregon, pleaded guilty today for illegally possessing a firearm.

According to court documents, on November 14, 2023, law enforcement responded to an attempted kidnapping and shooting in White City, Oregon, where they recovered a firearm. Surveillance footage showed Nunez-Vega in the area before the shooting occurred and investigators learned that he possessed the firearm prior to its use in the shooting.

On December 15, 2023, Nunez-Vega was charged by criminal complaint with illegally possessing a firearm.   

Nunez-Vega faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on August 13, 2025, before a U.S. District Judge.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

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DALLAS (OR) – Matthew Alan Luker, 50, has been sentenced to serve 38 months in prison for breaking into a residence outside of Dallas and killing a domesticated goat belonging to the property owners last October.

Luker, of Sheridan, was sentenced today by Polk County Circuit Judge Rafael A. Caso, after a trial held on May 5, in which he was found guilty of Burglary in the First Degree and Recklessly Endangering Another Person. Luker had previously entered guilty pleas to Aggravated Animal Abuse in the First Degree and Criminal Mischief in the First Degree..

Judge Caso sentenced Luker to consecutive sentences on the Burglary and Animal Abuse charges, specifically finding that Luker had shown “no remorse” for his actions. Luker will also be required to serve a three year term of Post-Prison Supervision upon his release.

The case was investigated by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Polk County Deputy District Attorney Garrett Lewellen.

Columbia County, Ore. 19 May 2025- On Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 9:14 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 30, near milepost 22, in Columbia County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Dodge Nitro, operated by Gary E Fowler (70) of Deer Island, was reportedly traveling at a high rate of speed when it struck the rear of a westbound Lexus R330, operated by Angela Michelle Kornhauser (43) of St. Helens. The collision caused the Lexus to leave the roadway and roll before coming to rest on the adjacent railroad tracks.

The operator of the Lexus (Kornhauser), who was not wearing a seatbelt, was seriously injured and transported to an area hospital.

The passenger of the Lexus, Christopher Michael Casillas (37) of Everett (WA), who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected during the roll event and declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Dodge (Fowler) suffered minor injuries and was cleared medically from a local medical center. Fowler was lodged in the Columbia County jail for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, Manslaughter I, Assault III, and Reckless Endangering.

The highway was impacted for approximately seven hours during the on-scene investigation. Speed and operator impairement are considered the primary contributors to the crash.

OSP was assisted by the Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Scappoose Police Department, and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Vancouver, Wash.  - Clark County is revising its Comprehensive Growth Management Plan, a 20-year guide for forecasted population, housing and employment needs through 2045. Selection of a preferred land use alternative is the next step in the update process.

Clark County is holding four open houses to share and discuss the three different land use alternatives being considered. Some of the proposed changes include changes to zoning designations, modifications to development regulations, and some small expansions to Urban Growth Areas (where urban growth is encouraged). The county encourages the public to attend an open house to learn about the county’s ongoing effort to plan for an additional 190,754 people and 88,100 jobs by 2045.

All in-person open houses are 7-8:30 p.m. Staff will be available to answer questions, provide information, and receive comments.

• May 26 – June 30: Online, self-paced option at https://bit.ly/2025CPUpdate (available beginning May 26, 2025)
• May 28: Ridgefield High School Commons, 2630 S Hillhurst Road
• May 29: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Elementary School, 8408 NE 25^th Ave.
• June 2: Vancouver iTech Preparatory School, 16100 NE 50^th Ave.

Translation services may be available upon request. Request must be sent to comp.plan@clark.wa.gov by 5-22-25.

Los servicios de traducción pueden estar disponibles si los solicita. Se debe enviar la solicitud a comp.plan@clark.wa.gov antes del 5-22-25.

Услуга письменного перевода может быть предоставлена по запросу. Запрос необходимо направить на адрес comp.plan@clark.wa.gov до 22.05.25.

可应要求提供翻译服务。 请求必须在 2025 年 5 月 22 日之前发送至 comp.plan@clark.wa.gov

Comments can be submitted in the following ways:

• At an open house
• On the county website: https://bit.ly/2025CPComments
• By email: comp.plan@clark.wa.gov
• By mail: Community Planning, Comprehensive Plan Update, P.O. Box 9810, Vancouver, WA 98666-9810

Learn more about the county Comprehensive Plan Update project, Your Future. Your Voice, at: https://bit.ly/2025CPUpdate

A few weeks ago, the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association (OSSA) learned that the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office, led by District Attorney Steve Gunnels, had conducted a lengthy investigation into issues involving the truthfulness of Deschutes County Sheriff Kent van der Kamp.  The investigation found that Sheriff van der Kamp had been untruthful about his educational credentials in multiple criminal cases.  As a result of this investigation, DA Gunnels determined that the DA’s office would no longer use Sheriff van der Kamp as a witness in any criminal trial – a status commonly referred to as being placed on the Brady list.

Upon learning of this information, the OSSA Executive Committee met and determined that, under the OSSA Bylaws, the Board of Directors should decide whether to temporarily suspend or permanently revoke Sheriff van der Kamp’s position as a Director on the OSSA Board.  Sheriff van der Kamp was notified that this question would be presented to the OSSA Board at the Spring Conference, and that he would have an opportunity to address the Board before a decision was made. Sheriff van der Kamp did not appear to address the Board, nor did he submit any written materials for the Board to consider.

On May 14, the Board met and considered the issue.  A motion was made to permanently expel Sheriff van der Kamp from serving as an OSSA Director.  The motion passed unanimously, with 32 Oregon sheriffs voting on the issue. Sheriff van der Kamp was immediately expelled from the OSSA Board of Directors. 

About the Oregon State Sheriffs' Association
The Oregon State Sheriffs' Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1916 to provide training and support to Oregon Sheriffs and their offices. 

Tim Svenson, Executive Director
503.364.4204 | tim@oregonsheriffs.org

Portland, Ore. — As wildfire season approaches, the Bureau of Land Management is increasing readiness and bolstering rural firefighting efforts by transferring surplus BLM fire engines to local cooperators. Through the Rural Fire Readiness program, these transfers aim to improve wildfire preparedness, strengthen interagency cooperation, and help protect vital community resources.

The RFR program provides eligible, local cooperators with essential firefighting resources, including training, tools, communications equipment, and vehicles. By supporting these cooperators, the BLM helps expand firefighting capacity across private, state, tribal, and federal lands, particularly in remote and high-risk areas.

By working together, these groups help protect homes and infrastructure that anchor rural communities, as well as important local resources, including grazing lands that support rural economies, recreational areas that draw tourism and outdoor enthusiasts, and critical wildlife habitat.

The BLM recently transferred engines to two departments:

• Lincoln County Fire District 8 (Spokane District) received a Type 6 engine, a nimble vehicle capable of accessing rugged terrain and quickly extinguishing small fires before they grow.
• Juniper Flats Rural Fire Protection District (Prineville District) received a Type 4 engine, ideal for extended attack operations and increased suppression capacity.

On the Juniper Flats transfer, Fire Chief for Juniper Flats RFPD, Eugene Walters, commented, “This engine will help control wildland fires in our community so they don’t become major fire events and will provide greater capabilities to protect local lives and property.”

Through continued collaboration and support, the BLM and its rural fire partners are helping ensure faster, more effective responses to wildfire threats across Oregon and Washington.

“We’re happy to see this truck go to a good partner.  We work on challenging incidents with Juniper Flats most every summer, I hope this truck gives them even more capacity,” said James Purswell, Assistant Fire Management Officer-Preparedness.

-BLM-

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kathryn Howard
Phone: 503.902.8550
Email: Kathryn@portlandfruit.org
Website: https://www.lifturbanportland.org/pledge-crop

Local Campaign Urges Gardeners to Fill the Gap as Federal Food Aid Declines

Portland, OR — [5.19.25] — As federal USDA funding cuts threaten nearly 20% of the food supply distributed through the Oregon Food Bank, a new community-driven campaign is calling on Portland-area residents to step up — from backyard gardeners to fruit tree owners. The Grow to Donate initiative seeks to address food insecurity by encouraging people to pledge their excess harvests to local hunger relief organizations.

“The food I receive from Preston’s Pantry significantly eases our budget… I prefer it because of the fresh fruits and vegetables. I credit the nutritious food from Lift UP with supporting my healing journey,” said Clara, a pantry client, emphasizing the impact of fresh, local produce on individual health and well-being.

The campaign is a collaborative response to federal cuts, which are already causing ripple effects throughout the region’s food assistance network. Grow to Donate is a low-barrier way for individuals to contribute meaningfully during the growing season.

Participating organizations that will benefit from produce donations include:

• William Temple House
   

• Trinity Episcopal Church
   

• PSU Student Pantry
   

• OHSU Student Pantry
   

• Urban Gleaners
   

• Community for Positive Aging
   

• Lift UP

• In partnership with Portland Fruit Tree Project and Black Food Sovereignty Coalition
   

How It Works:

• Gardeners and CSA Members: Anyone with a home garden, farm plot, or produce share can pledge to donate any excess produce this summer — no matter the amount. Early pledges help partner organizations plan and coordinate distribution.
   

• Fruit Tree, Vine, and Shrub Owners: Homeowners with more fruit than they can use are encouraged to connect with Portland Fruit Tree Project, which offers harvest support and ensures fruit reaches those who need it most.

• Don’t have a garden? Volunteer! Pick up/delivery drivers, harvesters, and community outreach volunteers will help expand the reach of this exciting project.
   

Organizers stress that even small contributions can make a big impact when pooled together across neighborhoods.

“We know the power of community in solving local challenges,” said [Spokesperson Name, Title, Organization]. “Grow to Donate is about turning gardens into solutions — fresh food into shared resilience.”- Stephanie Barr, Executive Director of Lift UP.

To make a pledge or learn more, visit https://www.lifturbanportland.org/pledge-crop.

A Blurb About the Campaign

Grow to Donate is a community-powered initiative responding to recent USDA food aid reductions. The campaign mobilizes local gardeners and fruit tree owners to help offset food insecurity by sharing surplus harvests with trusted nonprofit partners across Portland.

Media Inquiries and Interviews Available Upon Request.

In the early morning of Monday, May 19, 2025, Lincoln City Police Officers were dispatched to the area of SW 51st St and SW Ebb Ave on a report of a shooting that had just occurred. Upon arrival, officers located a male adult victim who had who had multiple apparent gunshot wounds. Personnel from North Lincoln Fire & Rescue and Pacific West Ambulance also responded and began providing medical treatment at the scene before transporting the victim to Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital. The victim was later transported to Salem Hospital for additional medical treatment and surgery. The victim’s current condition is unknown at this time.

The suspect in the shooting, identified as 43-year-old Justin R. Schmeidal of Lincoln City, remained on scene and self-reported the shooting before being taken into custody. Lincoln City Police Detectives responded to the scene and began their investigation into the circumstances involved with the shooting. The handgun believed to be used was recovered, and there is currently no further danger to the public as a result of this incident.

Schmeidal was subsequently transported to the Lincoln City Police Department and later transported to the Lincoln County Jail where he was lodged on charges of Assault I, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and Pointing a Firearm at Another. Additional charges may be considered.

LCPD would like to express our thanks to North Lincoln Fire Rescue and Pacific West Ambulance for their assistance in this incident.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to please contact Detective Lane or Detective Goodman at 541-994-3636.

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 7:00 p.m. on May 20, 2025.  
This meeting will be held in person in the MESD Board Room at 11611 NE Ainsworth Circle.

At the end of the Regular Session meeting the Board will meet in Executive Session under ORS 192.600(2)(d) to conduct deliberations with persons designated by the governing body to carry on labor negotiations.

There is also a Zoom link available for those that need to attend virtually.
https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/85173688058?pwd=vw7Hec1GueO625F4a9qYCMKYoV7Zbh.1
Passcode:717461

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) continues to actively investigate the shooting incident that occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 17, 2025.

As previously reported, at approximately 5:30 a.m., the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call from a Corvallis resident in the area of Highway 99W and Lakeside Dr., reporting that someone had been shot in a vehicle near that location.

Initial information indicated that a woman, described as a short Hispanic female with long hair and wearing a long sleeve black shirt, shot a male in the vehicle. She was last seen fleeing the scene on foot with another Hispanic female, somewhere south of Lakeside Dr. and north of the city of Monroe. Both individuals have not yet been located, but investigators believe they have left the area.

As a precaution, an emergency notification was issued to residents in the area, advising them to remain alert and report any suspicious activity. The public was also cautioned not to pick up hitchhikers in the vicinity.

The male victim was transported by the Corvallis Fire Department to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, where he continues to receive treatment for a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

There are no new developments to report at this time. BCSO personnel continue to investigate the incident, and updates will be provided as they become available.

BCSO would like to thank the Corvallis Police Department, Philomath Police Department, Corvallis Fire Department, and Linn County Sheriff's Office for their assistance with this ongoing investigation.

Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov or submit tips anonymously by calling 541-573-8477 (TIPS).

###

The suspect in a homicide in Old Town has been arrested.

On Sunday, May 18, 2025, Central Precinct officers and Homicide detectives arrested 55-year-old Sean B. Gunton in connection to the shooting death of Froilan Ortiz. The victim’s family has been notified of the arrest. Gunton was transported to the Multnomah County Detention Center and lodged on the following charges: Murder in the Second Degree, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

Anyone with information about this case, who has not spoken with police, is asked to contact Detective Calvin Goldring at ing@police.portlandoregon.gov">calvin.goldring@police.portlandoregon.gov , 503-823-0256; or Detective Eric McDaniel at ic.mcdaniel@police.portlandoregon.gov">eric.mcdaniel@police.portlandoregon.gov 503-823-0833. Please reference case number 25-122918.

###PPB###

Original Messages Below

The man killed in the homicide that occurred in Old Town on Sunday, May 11, 2025, is identified as Froilan Ortiz, 49, of Portland. His family has been notified of his death and they are requesting privacy at this time.

The Oregon State Medical Examiner determined that Ortiz died of homicide by gunshot wound. The investigation is continuing, and no further information is being released at this time.

Photo descriptions: Portrait of Ortiz in gray hat; Oritz poses with a red guitar

###PPB###

Original Message Below

A man died following a shooting on Northwest Naito Parkway in the Old Town Neighborhood, and the case is under investigation by the PPB Homicide Unit.

On Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 7:03 a.m., Portland Police Officers from Central Precinct responded to a report of shots fired at Northwest Naito Parkway near the Steel Bridge. When they arrived, they located a deceased person, believed to be an adult male, in the street.

The suspect or suspects left the scene, and no immediate arrests were made.

Portland Police Homicide Unit Detectives are responding to the scene to investigate. During the investigation, Northwest Naito Parkway is closed both directions between Northwest Everett Street and Northwest Ironside Terrace.

If anyone has information about this case, please contact Detective Calvin Goldring at ing@police.portlandoregon.gov">calvin.goldring@police.portlandoregon.gov , 503-823-0256; or Detective Eric McDaniel at ic.mcdaniel@police.portlandoregon.gov">eric.mcdaniel@police.portlandoregon.gov 503-823-0833. Please reference case number 25-122918.

The PIO is not responding to the scene. Additional information will be released as appropriate.

###PPB###

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) is proud to announce the return of its annual Veteran Benefit Expo, the state’s largest veteran resource event, on June 16th at the Salem Armory Auditorium, 2310 17th St. NE.

This marks the first in-person Expo since 2019 and will also feature a special 80th Anniversary Celebration of ODVA beginning at 10 a.m.

Organized by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs and presented in partnership with the Oregon Lottery and the Oregon Military Department, the Veteran Benefit Expo is a one-of-a-kind event and a one-stop shop for Oregon veterans of all eras and walks of life to learn about and access the full range of their earned benefits and local resources.

More than 65 participating agencies, nonprofits and service providers will be on hand to provide in-depth information and direct services across a wide range of benefit areas, including health care, disability claims assistance, housing, emergency assistance, long-term care, mental health, education, business, recreation and more.

“We are celebrating the 80th anniversary of ODVA by doing what we’ve always done: showing up for Oregon veterans and their families,” said ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels. “The Veteran Benefit Expo is more than an event — it is the heart of our mission brought to life: bringing vital resources and earned benefits into the communities where veterans live and work, and making sure they know they’re seen, valued, and supported.”

This year’s Expo will also celebrate ODVA’s eight decades of service to Oregon’s veteran community, kicking off with the 80th Anniversary Ceremony at 10 a.m. on the Armory Auditorium stage, which will be immediately followed by a cake cutting and the opening of the Expo. The public is invited to attend.

Space is limited, but there are still openings for state or local organizations who provide direct benefits to veterans and who are interested in being an exhibitor at this year’s Expo. Registration is free but is subject to approval by ODVA based on space and other considerations. To register, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/orvetexpo25vendors.

The Veteran Benefit Expo was first held in 2015 at the Salem Convention Center in honor of ODVA’s 70th anniversary and has grown to become the agency’s signature outreach event, drawing an estimated 500 to 600 veterans each year. Since its inception, the Expo has traveled to different regions of the state, with plans to continue rotating in future years to ensure broad access to benefits by the state’s diverse veteran population.

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.

For Media Only: Media partners are welcome to attend and cover or conduct interviews before or after the 80th Anniversary Ceremony or during the Expo. For assistance, please contact Tyler Francke at tyler.francke@odva.oregon.gov or 971-239-6640.

###

Portland, OR — On April 19, nearly 230 middle and high school students gathered at Willamette University in Salem for the 2025 Oregon History Day competition. Students traveled from Ashland, Jacksonville, John Day, Portland, Beaverton, Creswell, Grants Pass, Mount Vernon, and other cities across the state to present their documentaries, exhibits, papers, performances, and websites inspired by the annual theme, Rights and Responsibilities in History.

After having their projects evaluated by volunteer judges, 47 students qualified for the National Contest, which will take place June 8–12 at the University of Maryland. These Oregon students will join 3,000 competitors from across the nation at this annual celebration of student scholarship.During this trip, Oregon students will have the opportunity to explore museums and historic sites around Washington, D.C., including a special tour of George Washington’s Mount Vernon hosted by Mary Lang Bishop. They will also meet with Oregon senator Jeff Merkley and take a tour of the U.S. Capitol building with Senator Ron Wyden’s staff.

Oregon History Day, the statewide affiliate of the National History Day® program, is a student-directed, project-based, interdisciplinary learning program. Creating projects inspired by an annual theme, young historians in grades 6–12 choose topics to explore, conduct historical research, practice critical thinking skills, and analyze primary and secondary sources while considering diverse viewpoints.

Five projects were also awarded special prizes at Oregon History Day for their outstanding research on overlooked histories across Oregon. Award-winning projects include:

Asian History in Oregon Award 
Unearthing the Forgotten: The Erasure and Remembrance of Block 14 (Senior Group Documentary)
Derica T. and Lucas Z., Lincoln High School and Catlin Gabel, Portland

Black History in Oregon Award 
Nature and Society Versus Vanport (Junior Group Exhibit)
Gabriella K. and Lyric L.G., ACCESS Academy, Portland

Indigenous History in Oregon Award 
The Chief and the Shaman: The Governance of the Kalapuya (Senior Individual Exhibit)
Keira B., Westview High School, Beaverton

Women’s History in Oregon Award 
The Struggle for Immigrant Rights: Failures and the Fight for Justice (Senior Group Website)
Aashritha A. and Yatee B., Westview High School, Beaverton

Maritime History Award 
The Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972: The Right to Live Undisturbed and Our Responsibility to Protect Marine Mammals (Senior Individual Website)
Pranav R., Westview High School, Beaverton

About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and complex as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet in a special session on Friday, May 23, from 12:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (PT). This public meeting will be conducted via teleconference.

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/Board_agenda_5_23_2025.pdf

The DOGAMI Governing Board sets policy, oversees general operations, and adopts a strategic plan every six years. The Board meets at least quarterly. As active members of their communities, Board members provide an important connection between Oregonians and DOGAMI’s mission of providing earth science information and regulation to make Oregon safe and prosperous.

SALEM, Oregon— The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will meet 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday, May 27 to discuss governance structure and trail segment agreements.

The virtual meeting is open to the public and attendees can online via Microsoft Teams or by phone.

STIA was established to plan the development and maintenance of the proposed Salmonberry Trail.

The proposed tail is an 86-mile corridor that follows the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway and terminates in Banks. The proposed route connects eight cities and two counties, passing by the Oregon coastline, fisheries, farmland and the Oregon Coast Range. More information is at salmonberrytrail.org.

Join Online:

Platform: Microsoft Teams
Meeting ID: 274 742 371 743 9
Passcode: WK2So668
Phone conference ID: 503-446-4954, 887422481# (if dialing in)

To submit public comments for board members to review during the meeting, please send comments to Mike Cafferata at ata@odf.oregon.gov">mike.j.cafferata@odf.oregon.gov at least three days prior to the meeting.

Lincoln County, Ore 19 May 2025- On Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 4:11 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 20, near milepost 26, in Lincoln County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Toyota Camry, operated by Anthony Joel Estrada (37) of Toledo, crossed the centerline and struck an eastbound Ford F-250, operated by Rylee James Demarre (18) of Canby, head-on. 

The operator of the Toyota (Estrada) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford (Demarre) and passengers, Dylan Joel Makana Kaopuiki (23) of Salem and Kener De Jesus-Ajanel (30) of Tumwater (WA), reportedly suffered minor injuries and were transported to an area hospital for treatment.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by ODOT.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

PGE Parks celebrates 75-years with a summer-long photo contest for park and campground guests

Calling all outdoor enthusiasts!  PGE’s Parks and Re-creation Photo Contest invites participants to travel back in time for a chance to win a free stay at a PGE park or campground and celebrate PGE’s 75-year history of preserving and protecting Oregon’s natural resources. Snap the best shot, and you could win!

Starting Memorial Day weekend, PGE campers and park goers can join the fun by recreating one of three vintage photos taken at PGE parks in the 1950s with one submission per person. While the photos capture a historic period of time, PGE campers and visitors are encouraged to use a creative, modern-day spin.

Participants have all summer to get involved. Three winners will be chosen after Labor Day and sent a certificate to waive the fee for a two-night consecutive stay at PGE’s Promontory Park in Estacada or Pelton Park in Madras during the 2026 camping season.

PGE is dedicated to protecting Oregon’s natural resources while producing clean renewable energy for PGE customers. Since the 1950’s, PGE has worked to preserve and protect Oregon’s natural beauty through its park and recreation operations with many PGE parks and campgrounds home to renewable hydropower resources.

“For more than 75 years, we’ve welcomed visitors from near and far to our campgrounds and parks,” said PGE senior parks education specialist, Dorothy Brown-Kwaiser. “Our Parks & Re-creation Photo Contest is a fun way to celebrate PGE’s long-standing history of protecting shared green spaces — and thank the millions of people who have visited over the decades.”

Participants can recreate the photo of their choice at any of PGE’s more than a dozen parks and campgrounds. From Round Butte Overlook Park's spectacular views of the Deschutes River Canyon and Perry South Campground’s easy access to Lake Billy Chinook in Central Oregon, to Promontory Park’s family-friendly campground near Portland, there’s a wide variety of locations to choose from.

Entries will be accepted from Monday, May 26, 2025, through Monday, September 1, 2025. Submissions must be made online at PortlandGeneral.com/photocontest.

For contest rules and to find a PGE park or campground near you, head to PortlandGeneral.com/photocontest.

PGE Parks and Campgrounds:

• Balancing Rocks Overlook
• Clackamas River Boater Access Sites
• Faraday Lake
• Lake Harriet
• Monty Campground
• Pelton Park & Wildlife Overlook
• Perry South Campground
• Promontory Park
• Round Butte Overlook Park
• Timber Park
• Timothy Lake
• Trojan Park
• Trout Creek Ranch

ST. HELENS, Ore. [May 19, 2025] — Columbia County Public Works will begin its 2025 pavement preservation season with a road widening and asphalt overlay project on Bennett Road to Hazen Road, starting this month.

The project area spans approximately 0.52 miles—from roughly 0.2 miles west of Bachelor Flat Road (just west of the newly installed box culvert) to Hazen Road at the intersection with Stone Road.

Preparatory work will continue throughout May. Paving operations are expected to begin in the first half of June, depending on weather conditions. The work will be performed by Columbia County road crews.

The road will remain open to the public throughout the project, but travelers should expect traffic control and occasional delays. There is no designated detour for this project.

A project map is available at: https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/media/Public Works/2025Bennett-HazenPavingMap.jpg.

This overlay is the first of several planned surface treatments that will improve the safety and durability of county roads this summer.

Columbia County thanks residents and travelers for their patience and cooperation during this important infrastructure improvement effort.

# # #

Salem, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) joins Oregon Department of Forestry and other local, statewide and national partners in recognizing May as Wildfire Awareness Month.

Campfires are a beloved tradition when visiting Oregon State Parks, and staff encourage visitors to enjoy them safely when and where permitted.

The first step is to check campfire restrictions before you head out. If campfires are allowed, please follow these safety tips and rangers’ instructions to reduce the risk of wildfires where campfires are allowed.

Seven tips for safe and enjoyable campfires:

1. Check campfire restrictions at Oregon State Parks as well as public fire restrictions statewide.
2. Only build campfires in the existing fire ring in your campsite. Fire rings are placed in areas with buffer zones and away from vegetation.
3. Maintain campfire flames at or below knee height (about 2 feet high) to reduce the risk of ash and embers drifting into the trees or dry vegetation.
4. Always keep water close by to safely put out campfires. Douse the flames with water and stir the embers to make sure everything is wet. The stirring step is important: ash and wood debris often maintain heat.
5. Build beach campfires only where permitted on open sand and away from driftwood or vegetation. Slowly pour water on your beach fire to put it out. Pouring water too quickly can cause hot sand to fly. Don’t use sand to put out a beach fire, which insulates the coals and keeps them hot enough to burn someone even days later. Learn more at beach fire rules at Oregon State Parks website.
6. For propane fire rings, use in areas without vegetation or overhanging branches. Rules for propane fire rings may vary depending on local conditions. Check with park staff.
7. Make sure everyone in your campsite is familiar with campfire safety, including children. Always keep an eye on your campfire; accidental fires can start even when campers leave their fire unattended for “just a minute.”

Campfire regulations are outlined in Oregon Administrative Rules: https://secure.sos.state.or.us/oard/viewSingleRule.action?ruleVrsnRsn=322968

Education is the top priority for rule enforcement, but rangers also have the option of issuing a Class A violation for significant violations or for multiple violations with a presumptive fine of up to $400.

In addition, explosives and fireworks are not allowed in state parks or the ocean shore because they pose a danger to visitors, wildlife and the landscape. High winds, flammable vegetation and the unpredictability of fireworks create a unique hazard particularly in crowded areas.

Resources:

• Oregon Department of Forestry’s wildfire information website: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/firestats.aspx.
• Oregon State Fire Marshal’s wildfire prevention webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/osfm/education/pages/prevent-wildfires.aspx.
• Oregon Department of Emergency Management Oregon Wildfire Response and Recovery: https://wildfire.oregon.gov/
• Department of Environmental Quality Oregon Smoke Information: https://www.oregonsmoke.org/
• Oregon Department of Transportation Tripcheck for road conditions: https://tripcheck.com/
• For breaking news and information, follow the Twitter accounts and Facebook pages for Oregon State Parks, Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon Department of Transportation, and Oregon Department of Emergency Management.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications
Oregon Community Foundation, cfogarty@oregoncf.org

GRANTS FUEL COMMUNITY-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS ACROSS REGION
Northern Willamette Valley Nonprofits Share $643,000 to Make Progress on Pressing Challenges

SALEM, Ore. – Nonprofits tackling the Northern Willamette Valley’s most pressing challenges are receiving a boost. Oregon Community Foundation has distributed new grants to organizations making progress on housing, child care, hunger, substance abuse, arts and culture, and those serving immigrants, refugees and others. In all, OCF’s Community Grants program is investing $643,000 in the work of 24 Northern Willamette Valley organizations.

Local Voices, Local Impact  

One of those nonprofits is the Marshallese Women's Education and Health Network, which provides bilingual help to immigrants from the 1,200 islands and islets of the Marshall Islands.

"We try to be a useful house where we help Marshallese women get the training and resources they need to succeed in the new world," said Josephine Hunter, Executive Director. "We want to help them get out of the shadows and get out of the margins."

Funding from OCF's 2025 Spring Cycle of Community Grants is flexible, allowing organizations to invest the money where it is needed most. Statewide the program has awarded $5,629,398 to 241 nonprofits serving urban and rural communities.

“All over our state, Oregonians are working to make their communities better, and we rely on them to point the way to solutions and innovative ideas,” said Marcy Bradley, OCF’s Chief Community Engagement and Equity Officer. 

“Flexible operating funds through our Community Grants show the trust and respect we have for our local communities,” Bradley said. “We’re grateful to our donors for making this possible and to our nonprofit partners for their deep knowledge and desire to improve the lives of all Oregonians.” 

For 28 years, OCF’s Community Grants program has supported nonprofits, Tribal organizations and government agencies in all 36 counties of Oregon. The 2025 Spring Cycle prioritized nonprofits that are culturally specific, culturally responsive or small rural.  

Breaking down the grants statewide:

• Nearly 3 in 4 of the nonprofits receiving grants serve low-income communities.
• Nearly half serve communities that are Black, Indigenous or people of color.
• Grants went to 26 nonprofits that support Oregonians who are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless or in need of affordable housing. Another 30 of the nonprofits receiving grants support immigrant or refugee communities. Twelve more fight hunger.
• For 127 of the nonprofits receiving funding, this is their first Community Grant from OCF.

Community-Reviewed, Donor-Supported

The funding is possible because of donors to Oregon Community Foundation. Grant applications from nonprofits were reviewed by OCF volunteers in every region of Oregon. The list below of representative grants from each region of Oregon demonstrates the impact these grants have on nearly every aspect of life for Oregonians.

A full list of grantees can be found on the OCF website.

Next Opportunity: Fall 2025 Grants

The next cycle of Community Grants from OCF, in the fall of 2025, will focus on capacity building, small capital and new or expanding projects. Program applications will open June 12, 2025. Grants will be awarded in November.

Representative Grants for the Region

Capital Community Television

$15,000
Salem
Contact: Alan Bushong, Interim Executive Director, alan@ccmediasalem.org
https://www.capitalcommunitymedia.org/

Marshallese Women’s Education and Health Network
$40,000
Contact: Josephine Hunter, Executive Director/Board Chair
kannonjowwan@yahoo.com
https://www.mwehn.com/

Silverton Area Community Aid

$40,000

Contact: Sarah DeSantis, Executive Director, ah@silvertonareacommunityaid.org">sarah@silvertonareacommunityaid.org

Silvertonareacommunityaid.org

Titus 3
Dallas
$40,000
Contact: Diana McGowan, President, titus3housedallas@gmail.com
https://titus3house.org/

Zero Waste McMinnville

McMinnville

$23,000

Contact: Ramsey McPhillips, President, owastemcminnville@gmail.com">zerowastemcminnville@gmail.com

https://www.zerowastemcminnville.com/

Community Grants by Region

• Central Oregon: 24 grants totaling $382,360
• Eastern Oregon: 17 grants totaling $264,715 
• Metro Portland: 90 grants totaling $2,480,978
• North Coast: 14 grants totaling $242,112 
• Northern Willamette Valley: 24 grants totaling $643,000 
• Southern Oregon: 26 grants totaling $516,000 
• South Coast: 11 grants totaling $178,524 
• Southern Willamette Valley: 35 grants totaling $921,700 

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In 2024, OCF distributed more than $211 million in grants and scholarships in every county in Oregon in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.

  ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications
Oregon Community Foundation, cfogarty@oregoncf.org

GRANTS FUEL COMMUNITY-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS ACROSS REGION
North Coast Nonprofits Share $242,112 to Make Progress on Pressing Challenges

PORTLAND, Ore. – Nonprofits tackling the North Coast’s most pressing challenges are receiving a boost. Oregon Community Foundation has distributed new grants to organizations making progress on housing, child care, hunger, substance abuse, arts and culture, and those serving immigrants, refugees and others. In all, OCF’s Community Grants program is investing $242,112 in the work of 14 North Coast organizations.

Local Voices, Local Impact  

One of those nonprofits is Sande School of Horsemanship, which uses horses to teach life skills and provide therapeutic services.

“Our county has a severe shortage of mental health providers. This summer, we're completing a new mental health wing with space for two more full-time providers,” said Kassi Euwer, founder and Executive Director. “Oregon Community Foundation was the first funder to get on board with this expansion, leading the way for other foundations to support this important work.”

Funding from OCF's 2025 Spring Cycle of Community Grants is flexible, allowing organizations to invest the money where it is needed most. Statewide the program has awarded $5,629,398 to 241 nonprofits serving urban and rural communities.

“All over our state, Oregonians are working to make their communities better, and we rely on them to point the way to solutions and innovative ideas,” said Marcy Bradley, OCF’s Chief Community Engagement and Equity Officer. 

“Flexible operating funds through our Community Grants show the trust and respect we have for our local communities,” Bradley said. “We’re grateful to our donors for making this possible and to our nonprofit partners for their deep knowledge and desire to improve the lives of all Oregonians.” 

For 28 years, OCF’s Community Grants program has supported nonprofits, Tribal organizations and government agencies in all 36 counties of Oregon. The 2025 Spring Cycle prioritized nonprofits that are culturally specific, culturally responsive or small rural.  

Breaking down the grants statewide:

• Nearly 3 in 4 of the nonprofits receiving grants serve low-income communities.
• Nearly half serve communities that are Black, Indigenous or people of color.
• Grants went to 26 nonprofits that support Oregonians who are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless or in need of affordable housing. Another 30 of the nonprofits receiving grants support immigrant or refugee communities. Twelve more fight hunger.
• For 127 of the nonprofits receiving funding, this is their first Community Grant from OCF.

Community-Reviewed, Donor-Supported

The funding is possible because of donors to Oregon Community Foundation. Grant applications from nonprofits were reviewed by OCF volunteers in every region of Oregon. The list below of representative grants from each region of Oregon demonstrates the impact these grants have on nearly every aspect of life for Oregonians.

A full list of grantees can be found on the OCF website.

Next Opportunity: Fall 2025 Grants

The next cycle of Community Grants from OCF, in the fall of 2025, will focus on capacity building, small capital and new or expanding projects. Program applications will open June 12, 2025. Grants will be awarded in November.

Representative Grants for the Region

Central Coast Food Web
Newport
$30,000
Contact: Jim King, Executive Director, jim@centralcoastfoodweb.org

https://centralcoastfoodweb.org/

Necanicum Watershed Council
Seaside
$20,000
Contact: Sarah Walker, Executive Operations Director,

ector@necanicumwatershed.org">executivedirector@necanicumwatershed.org
https://www.necanicumwatershed.org/

Sande School of Horsemanship
Warren
$19,887
Contact: Kassi Euwer, Executive Director, kassi@sandeschoolofhorsemanship.org
https://www.sandeschoolofhorsemanship.org/

WildFlower Play Collective
St Helens
$15,000
Contact: Emilia Ponti, Executive Director, playcollective@gmail.com">wildflowerplaycollective@gmail.com
https://www.wildflowerplaycollective.org/

Community Grants by Region

• Central Oregon: 24 grants totaling $382,360
• Eastern Oregon: 17 grants totaling $264,715 
• Metro Portland: 90 grants totaling $2,480,978
• North Coast: 14 grants totaling $242,112 
• Northern Willamette Valley: 24 grants totaling $643,000 
• Southern Oregon: 26 grants totaling $516,000 
• South Coast: 11 grants totaling $178,524 
• Southern Willamette Valley: 35 grants totaling $921,700 

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In 2024, OCF distributed more than $211 million in grants and scholarships in every county in Oregon in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.

  ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications
Oregon Community Foundation, cfogarty@oregoncf.org

GRANTS FUEL COMMUNITY-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS ACROSS REGION

Portland Area Nonprofits Share $2.5 Million to Make Progress on Pressing Challenges

PORTLAND, Ore. – Nonprofits tackling the Portland region’s most pressing challenges are receiving a boost. Oregon Community Foundation has distributed new grants to organizations making progress on housing, child care, hunger, substance abuse, arts and culture, and those serving immigrants, refugees and others. In all, OCF’s Community Grants program is investing $2.5 million in the work of 90 Metro Portland organizations.

Local Voices, Local Impact

One of those nonprofits is El Jardín Recovery Centers, which received a $40,000 Community Grant.

“We work really hard to make sure that everyone who is seeking recovery can find it within a community that understands that intrinsic, deep part of them,” said Diana Aleman, Data and Development Manager. “It's easier for someone to start their recovery when they understand that the other person knows how they feel.”

Funding from OCF's 2025 Spring Cycle of Community Grants is flexible, allowing organizations to invest the money where it is needed most. Statewide the program has awarded $5,629,398 to 241 nonprofits serving urban and rural communities.

“All over our state, Oregonians are working to make their communities better, and we rely on them to point the way to solutions and innovative ideas,” said Marcy Bradley, OCF’s Chief Community Engagement and Equity Officer. 

“Flexible operating funds through our Community Grants show the trust and respect we have for our local communities,” Bradley said. “We’re grateful to our donors for making this possible and to our nonprofit partners for their deep knowledge and desire to improve the lives of all Oregonians.” 

For 28 years, OCF’s Community Grants program has supported nonprofits, Tribal organizations and government agencies in all 36 counties of Oregon. The 2025 Spring Cycle prioritized nonprofits that are culturally specific, culturally responsive or small rural.  

Breaking down the grants statewide:

• Nearly 3 in 4 of the nonprofits receiving grants serve low-income communities.
• Nearly half serve communities that are Black, Indigenous or people of color.
• Grants went to 26 nonprofits that support Oregonians who are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless or in need of affordable housing. Another 30 of the nonprofits receiving grants support immigrant or refugee communities. Twelve more fight hunger.
• For 127 of the nonprofits receiving funding, this is their first Community Grant from OCF.

Community-Reviewed, Donor-Supported

The funding is possible because of donors to Oregon Community Foundation. Grant applications from nonprofits were reviewed by OCF volunteers in every region of Oregon. The list below of representative grants from each region of Oregon demonstrates the impact these grants have on nearly every aspect of life for Oregonians.

A full list of grantees can be found on the OCF website.

Next Opportunity: Fall 2025 Grants

The next cycle of Community Grants from OCF, in the fall of 2025, will focus on capacity building, small capital and new or expanding projects. Program applications will open June 12, 2025. Grants will be awarded in November.

Representative Grants for the Region

Black Community of Portland
Portland
$40,000
Contact: Michelle Yemaya Benton, Executive Director, myemaya@bcppdx.org

https://www.facebook.com/BCPpublic/ 

Ground Score Association
Portland
$40,000
Contact: Taylor Cass Talbott, Co-Director, taylor@groundscoreassociation.org

https://www.groundscoreassociation.org/

Sarah Bellum’s Bakery & Workshop
Portland
$30,000
Contact: Michelle Kinsella, Board Secretary, michellek@sarahbellumsbakery.org

https://www.sarahbellumsbakery.org/

Northwest Instituto Latino Addicciones (El Jardín Recovery Centers)
Portland and Hillsboro
$40,000
Contact: Sunny Briscoe, Deputy Director, riscoe@eljardinrecovery.org">sbriscoe@eljardinrecovery.org

https://www.eljardinrecovery.org/

Portland Tennis & Education
Portland
$30,000
Contact: Campbell Garonzik, Executive Director, ell@ptande.org">campbell@ptande.org

https://www.ptande.org/

Community Grants by Region

• Central Oregon: 24 grants totaling $382,360
• Eastern Oregon: 17 grants totaling $264,715 
• Metro Portland: 90 grants totaling $2,480,978
• North Coast: 14 grants totaling $242,112 
• Northern Willamette Valley: 24 grants totaling $643,000 
• Southern Oregon: 26 grants totaling $516,000 
• South Coast: 11 grants totaling $178,524 
• Southern Willamette Valley: 35 grants totaling $921,700 

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In 2024, OCF distributed more than $211 million in grants and scholarships in every county in Oregon in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.

  ###

Two separate committees will meet to score and rank applications for the Preserving Oregon and Diamonds in the Rough Grant programs. The recommendations from the committees will be forwarded to the State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation for final review and approval June 27, 2025.

Both meetings will be online via Zoom.

The Diamonds in the Rough Grant Review Committee will meet May 28, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Please see the agenda for access details.

The Preserving Oregon Grant Review Committee will meet June 3, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Please see the agenda for access details.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling 503-986-0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For information about the grants contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

Clark’s first bachelor of science degree program begins fall 2025

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Clark College is offering a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science. The first cohort will start in fall 2025, with students graduating in spring 2027. 

Although Clark College offers five bachelor of applied science (BAS) degrees, this is Clark’s first bachelor of science (BS) degree. 

Clark College currently offers a two-year associate’s degree in computer science. Previously, graduates of Clark’s two-year program who wanted to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science had to transfer to a four-year institution. Beginning in fall 2025, computer science students can earn their associate’s degree followed by their bachelor’s degree entirely at Clark College. 

Graduates of this program will be qualified for a wide range of computer software development opportunities across many industries. The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $105,990 in May 2024, which was more than double the median wage for all occupations, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics [source]. Overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow by 26% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations [source]. 

Izad Khormaee, director and professor of computer science at Clark College, explained how the new Bachelor of Science degree program will prepare graduates to step into a variety of fields in the computer industry. He said, “Our program focuses on preparing students to be productive on their first day of their career. Students may choose to specialize in Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, Mobile Application Development and imbedded systems programming. Demand for graduates with a BS in computer science is growing. Our graduates will be prepared to enter promising careers offering excellent pay and enormous opportunity for growth.”

Background: During the 2020-2021 legislative session, Washington State legislators passed Substitute Senate HB 5401, which permits community and technical colleges to offer a bachelor of science in computer science degree, subject to approval by the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. Clark is among a dozen Washington community colleges to offer a BS in computer science. The closest is South Puget Sound Community College in Olympia, which is 105 miles from Clark College. 

“Clark College always strives to meet local and regional industry needs. The industry of computer and information technology is growing exponentially, and is expected to continue growing,” Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards said. “Our Bachelor of Science degree in computer science will prepare students to assume current and future positions in this high-demand field.”

Learn more about Clark’s new BS in computer science here: https://www.clark.edu/academics/programs/dept/cse/

More about Clark College bachelor degrees: https://www.clark.edu/academics/degrees/bas.php

• Applied Management
• Cybersecurity
• Dental Hygiene
• Human Services
• Teacher Education

About Clark College 

Founded in 1933, Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. It is a public community college offering more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves a wide range of students including high school students, displaced workers, veterans, parents, non-native English speakers, and mature learners. Approximately 45% of its students are in the first generation of their families to attend college.   

####

Yesterday, Saturday, May 17, 2025 at about 11:00pm Silverton and Woodburn Police arrested Kenneth Kolarsky, 58, of Portland who had an outstanding arrest warrant for felony hit and run which stemmed from a deadly incident that occurred in Woodburn on December 26, 2024.  See link for initial incident information: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AP32pBJjP/

Kolarsky, who is an employee at Silverton Hospital, was located outside the facility and arrested without incident. Kolarsky was transported and lodged at Marion County Jail.

Please contact Marion County District Attorney with questions on this case.  

On Sunday, May 18, 2025, at approximately 12:40 a.m., deputies from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a person not breathing following a single-vehicle rollover crash in the 14900 block of NW Gillihan Road on Sauvie Island.

Upon arrival, deputies located a juvenile female who was deceased at the scene. She had been a passenger in a side-by-side utility task vehicle (UTV). The crash occurred on private property.

The East County Vehicular Crimes Team responded to conduct a comprehensive investigation. As a result of their preliminary findings, the driver of the UTV, 18-year-old Ayden Heard, was taken into custody. Heard was initially transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Following his discharge, he was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on multiple offenses including Manslaughter in the Second Degree. Full booking information can be viewed here.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. No further details are available at this time.

The East County Vehicular Crimes Team (VCT) consists of specially trained law enforcement members from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Gresham Police Department and Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. VCT investigates serious and fatal vehicle crashes and crimes in Gresham, Fairview, Maywood Park, Troutdale, Wood Village and unincorporated Multnomah County.

Get ready to walk, bike, roll and celebrate healthy, active living on the open streets of Southwest Portland as Portland Sunday Parkways, Presented by Kaiser Permanente, kicks off the first of four events from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. today, Sunday, May 18.

Join us for our 18th year as founding and presenting sponsor of the city’s biggest family street party, where we encourage neighbors to come out and celebrate good fun and good health. This beloved free community event promises a day of fun-filled activities for all ages along two scenic routes through Southwest Portland: a 2-mile bike, walk or run route and a 3.6-mile walking route connecting Gabriel Park, Spring Garden Park, and Multnomah Village.

“As a health care organization, we know there is a strong link between physical activity and health and mental wellness,” said Wendy Watson, president of Kaiser Permanente Northwest. “Our sponsorship represents our commitment to promote civic pride, support local businesses, and encourage people-powered modes of transportation. Encouraging people to walk, ride and bike Sunday Parkways with friends and family is a great way for everyone to get out, get active and get to know their neighbors, while also allowing us to improve community health."

Interviews Available: 

Media are invited to the Kaiser Permanente “NOURISH” booth in front of Thinker Toys in Multnomah Village (7784 S.W. Capitol Hwy.) from 11 a.m. to noon for interviews with Wendy Watson, President of Kaiser Permanente Northwest. Contact en.a.vitt@kp.org">Karen Vitt to schedule or stop by.

Visuals:

• People enjoying fresh produce samples in the NOURISH booth at Multnomah Village. 
• Community members painting a large-scale mural in the Multnomah Village CONNECT booth, supporting mental health. The finished piece will be donated to a local school or nonprofit. 
• Children and adults playing life-size Jenga, Connect Four, and bean bag toss in the PLAY booth at Gabriel Park. 
• Heart-healthy strength training demonstrations at the MOVE booth in Spring Garden Park. 
• Families participating in the popular Kaiser Permanente Sticker Hunt — those who visit all four Kaiser Permanente booths and collect every sticker win a prize. 
• Portlanders walking, biking, and rolling along two beautiful Southwest Portland routes, while enjoying live music, food, and family-friendly fun.​

“Sunday Parkways represents everything that’s great about Portland, said Watson. “Friends and neighbors of all backgrounds interact in ways they may not otherwise, and people of all ages and abilities enjoy moving their bodies in a safe environment. We’re proud to partner with the City as the Founding and Presenting Sponsor of Sunday Parkways for the 18th year and continue providing fun, healthy and memorable experiences for our Portland communities.” 

Save the date for all four day-long celebrations in 2025 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.: 

• Sunday, May 18 in Southwest Portland 
• Sunday, June 29 in Northeast Cully 
• Sunday, July 27 in East Portland 
• Sunday, September 14 in Downtown Portland 

During each event, Portland's streets will be transformed into accessible, family-friendly routes closed to car traffic. This creates a safe space for everyone to explore neighborhood greenways, parks and community spaces — while sampling food, enjoying live entertainment, and discovering new ways to move and thrive. 

More Information: Visit kp.org/sundayparkways for route maps and details. 

On May 17th, 2025, at 9:12 p.m.  Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire at 4613 E. 18th St. #23.  The first fire unit arrived within 3 minutes of dispatch and found smoke coming from a two-story townhouse.   The fire was quickly knocked down within seven minutes of the first engine arriving and was called under control within 23 minutes.  Four fire engines, two ladder trucks, one squad and two battalion chiefs responded for a total of 26 personnel working on scene.  One person was transported to Peace Health Southwest by AMR. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal's Office.  

During the last three months, the Portland Police Bureau continued directed patrol efforts along Northeast 82^nd Avenue and Northeast Sandy Boulevard in response to ongoing community complaints and observed nuisance and livability activity related to sex trafficking. These were collaborative efforts among the Human Trafficking Unit, East and North Precinct Priority Projects, Central Precinct, Detective Division, Special Resources Division, Victim Services Unit, Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, Multnomah County Parole & Probation, and Safety Compass.  

 
The following individuals were arrested or cited for ORS 167.008 Commercial Sexual Solicitation (CSS) and/or Portland City Code 14A.40.50 Unlawful Prostitution Procurement Activities (UPPA), and any other noted crimes: 

Brian Aldous, 46, Salem, OR       

Abdo Alzukhri, 42, Portland, OR

Agustin Baltazard-Diego , 18, Gresham, OR          

Jonathan Berry, 29, Vancouver, WA       

Isaac Cid Rodriguez, 33, Vancouver, WA

Mario Cotoc-Sop, 21, Portland, OR         

Logan Escalante-Fellows, 25, Vancouver, WA     

Taylor Feiereisel, 37, Beaverton, OR       

Abner Francisco-Juan, 19, Gresham, OR

Teklebrhan Gebrehiwot, 32, Happy Valley, OR   

Jeffrey D. Hall, 40, Portland, OR

Jorge Hernandez Ramirez, 27, Gresham, OR       

Abdikadir Hussein, 27, Portland, OR (Additional firearm related charges)

Christopher Jacobs, 48, Portland, OR      

Bradley Juhl, 35, Portland, OR   

Dustin Larriva, 44, Portland, OR

Melquiades Lopez Mendoza, 43, Gresham, OR (Additional controlled substance related charges)

Abelardo Lopez Ramirez, 28, Portland, OR           

Adrian Martinez Rosales, 23, Vancouver, WA     

Jolied Mendez Daza, 57, Happy Valley, OR          

Guillermo Ochoa-Hernandez, 62, Vancouver, WA            

Pranay Parvathi, 29, Portland, OR           

Jesus Perea, 37, Portland, OR (Additional firearm related charges)

Kevin Perez-Chavez, 21, Aloha, OR          

James Peterson, 71, Woodland, WA       

Collin Rin, 25, Portland, OR        

Tarekegn Sheko, 26, Portland, OR           

Alexander Tarton-Jutzuy, 25, Beaverton, OR       

Marco Vazquez Martinez, 23, Clackamas, OR      

Clifford Whitlow, 58, Dundee, OR           

During this timeframe, six vehicles were towed, and additional information was gathered related to other suspected buyers, suspected traffickers, and ongoing trafficking investigations. Twenty-six providers were contacted and offered services through Officers or advocates. HTU continues to utilize the partnership of PPB’s Victim Services Unit and Safety Compass for street level outreach for provider contacts.

Safety Compass is a non-profit organization that offers advocacy services to individuals under the age of 25 who identify as survivors of commercial sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Approximately 25 providers were contacted and offered assistance or connection to resources.

 
HTU cases are complex with several identified barriers such as repeated traumatic exposures, trauma bonds with traffickers, and fear of retaliation. The survivors in these cases are often reluctant to come forward, make a report, and/or continue through the criminal justice process. HTU continues to offer trauma-informed, victim-centered services, in conjunction with PPB Victim Services Unit advocates and community-based partnerships like Safety Compass.
 
If you know or suspect someone is being trafficked, please call 911, PPB’s non-emergency line 503-823-3333, or the National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888. Non-emergency Portland related tips can also be reported to: afficking@police.portlandoregon.gov" target="_blank">humantrafficking@police.portlandoregon.gov.  

Last May, the Portland Police Bureau offered an episode of the Talking Beat features a discussion on the Human Trafficking Unit in Portland, emphasizing collaborative efforts to combat juvenile sex trafficking, support victims, and hold offenders accountable while prioritizing a victim-centered approach. You can listen to the podcast here.

You can subscribe to The Talking Beat Podcast here.

And in 2023, PPB debuted a video on the problem and devastating impacts of sex trafficking. Watch it here.

###PPB###

Armed Forces Day at Rees Training Center

HERMISTON, Ore. - The Oregon National Guard hosted an Armed Forces Day celebration on May 17, 2025, honoring current military members and veterans of the United States military during a community event held at the Rees Training Center near Hermiston, Oregon.

“The Oregon National Guard has a long history of supporting Armed Forces Day celebration,” said Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon. “Being able to support events like these makes the Oregon National Guard the Service of Choice for Oregonians.”

This was the first time that the Oregon National Guard had hosted an Armed Forces Day celebration at the Rees Training Center. Activities include a vast array of static displays of military vehicles, local food and community vendors, a climbing wall, as well as music provided by the Hermiston High School Band.

Welcoming those in attendance to open the celebration was Maj. Gen. (ret.) Raymond F. Rees, who served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Training, Readiness and Mobilization from 2014 to 2019, and as the Adjutant General of Oregon. He also served as the director of the Army National Guard and acting chief of the National Guard Bureau during his distinguished career.

In September of 2022, the Umatilla Chemical Depot was officially renamed the Raymond F. Rees Training Center in his honor and for his contributions to the Nation and State.

“This is certainly an opportunity to thank all our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Guardians, and Coast Guardsmen for their service,” Rees said. “I also want to thank the contributions of the Oregon Army and Air National Guard on this day, for their dedication and contributions to the security of the people of Oregon.”

Umatilla County Commissioner Cindy Timmons also gave opening remarks, saying, “I just want to ask you to have fun today and enjoy visiting the vendors and recruiting attractions.”

The annual Adjutant General’s Combat Marksmanship Training Exercise, or ‘TAG Match,’ took place from May 15 to 17 at the weapons ranges of the Rees Training Center, where the best marksmen in the Oregon Army and Air National Guard competed. Gronewold seized the opportunity to present the winners in each category during a late afternoon ceremony.

“Whether you're in the National Guard, active duty, or Reserves, when called upon, those who wear our nation’s uniform rise to the occasion and challenge,” Gronewold said.

Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. President John F. Kennedy officially designated the holiday in 1962.

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Released images:

250517-Z-CH590-1791: Maj. Gen. (ret.) Raymond F. Rees delivers the opening remarks to welcome those attending the first-ever Oregon National Guard Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Rees, who served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Training, Readiness, and Mobilization from 2014 to 2019, also held the position of Adjutant General of Oregon. He further distinguished himself by serving as the director of the Army National Guard and acting chief of the National Guard Bureau during his esteemed career. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-1841: Umatilla County Commissioner Cindy Timmons delivers opening remarks to welcome those attending the first-ever Oregon National Guard Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. President John F. Kennedy officially designated the holiday in 1962. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-2140: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, addresses those attending the first-ever Oregon National Guard Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Gronewold described the history of Armed Forces Day and the responsibilities of those who currently serve in the military, as well as thanking those who have served in the past, during an afternoon awards ceremony for the annual Adjutant General’s Combat Marksmanship Training Exercise, or ‘TAG Match.’ (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-2172: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon (back row, left), pauses for a group photo with those who won individual and team awards during an afternoon ceremony for the annual Adjutant General’s Combat Marksmanship Training Exercise, or ‘TAG Match,’ held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon on May 17, 2025. The TAG Match concluded on Armed Forces Day, and the winners were highlighted during the day’s events. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-3692: Local food vendors serve lunch to those attending the first-ever Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. President John F. Kennedy officially designated the holiday in 1962. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-3713: An Oregon Army National Guard helicopter was just one of the many military static displays open to the public at the first-ever Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. President John F. Kennedy officially designated the holiday in 1962. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250517-Z-CH590-3794: Oregon Army National Guard recruiters help kids enjoy a climbing wall while attending the first-ever Armed Forces Day celebration held at the Rees Training Center, near Hermiston, Oregon, on May 17, 2025. Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. President John F. Kennedy officially designated the holiday in 1962. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is actively investigating a shooting that occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 17, 2025.

At approximately 5:30 a.m., the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call from a Corvallis resident in the area of Highway 99W and Lakeside Dr, reporting someone had been shot in a vehicle near that location.

The initial information is a woman described as a short Hispanic female with long hair, wearing a long sleeve black shirt, had shot a male in the vehicle.

The shooter is considered armed and was last seen running from the vehicle with another Hispanic female somewhere south of Lakeside Dr and north of the city of Monroe.  The female shooter and the other female have not been located at this time.

As a precaution, BCSO issued an emergency notification to residents in the immediate area, advising them to report any suspicious activity immediately. The public is cautioned not to pick up hitchhikers in the area.

First responders from the Corvallis Fire Department transported the male victim to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis. He is currently being treated for a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

Benton County Sheriff’s Office personnel continue to investigate this incident. Future updates may be provided as they become available.

Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov. Those wishing to remain anonymous can submit tips by calling 541-573-8477(TIPS).

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Portland, Oregon, May 17, 2025 – Rocky Butte Farmers Market returns for 2025 to its convenient NE Siskiyou and 80th Ave. location with more than 20 vendors, educational programming & food demos and an exciting new food-sharing initiative called pahtl o’-pe-kwan in Chinuk Wawa — or “Full Basket”, that will provide needed support for those visiting the Roseway neighborhood market.
 

"Full Basket" is thanks to a generous collaboration led by the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) and the Cully, Woodlawn, and Rocky Butte farmers markets that have teamed up to provide $50 in weekly tokens to market patrons who are receiving supplemental government assistance, which can be used to purchase produce, meat, eggs, fish, and more. 
 

This initiative comes at a critical time as tariffs are driving up the cost of imported goods nationwide and with the potential for shortages looming, building community and increasing access to fresh, local food is more important than ever. This program will help take care of our Portland neighbors who need assistance through this uncertain period.

In addition to “Full Basket,” Rocky Butte Farmers Market provides a number of other ways to make shopping at the market easier and more affordable: 

• SNAP recipients can double their purchasing power with up to $20 matched per visit through the Double Up Food Bucks program;

• shoppers who arrive by bus or bike receive $5 shopping tokens, through the Metro RTC grant;

• access to essential resources such as SNAP eligibility screenings through Hunger-Free Oregon and regular distribution of free COVID tests and naloxone to support public health and safety in our community.

Each week Rocky Butte Farmers Market collects excess food from vendors and donates it directly to Mainspring. This keeps high-quality, locally grown produce within the community and ensures that everyone has access to fresh, seasonal food, regardless of income.
 

New to the market this year will be Veg-Education and food demos in collaboration with high school students in McDaniel High School’s Sustainable Agriculture CTE Program. This initiative focuses on lesser-known, in-season produce and helps educate shoppers on how to incorporate these foods into their weekly meals. Veg-Education will include student-tested recipes, an educational zine, storage and preparation tips to reduce food waste, a social media campaign, and live cooking demos at the market.
 

More than just a market, Rocky Butte Farmers Market strives to be an impactful community resource - collaborating with neighboring food pantries, nonprofits, and gardens to provide services to underserved community members, increase access to education and food security, and positively impact the ecology, health, and overall community well-being.
 

Rocky Butte Farmers Market will open Saturday, May 24, 2025, in the Roseway neighborhood at NE Siskiyou, between 79th and 81st. The Market runs every Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 24 through October 25.
 

Learn more about the market, this year's vendors, the weekly entertainment or apply to be a vendor at www.rockybuttemarket.com. Follow the market on Instagram at @rockybuttefarmersmarket and Facebook at @RockyButteFarmersMarket to stay informed on news and updates.

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Free festival culminates in a full day of workshops designed for writers 

VANCOUVER, Wash.— The English department at Clark College hosts its annual Creative Writing Festival from May 27-31. The event, which is free and open to the public, features activities geared for writers and readers at all levels. The festival allows writers to immerse themselves in workshops and readings by renowned authors. It will culminate with the Spring Writing Workshop on Saturday, May 31, with a full day of workshops for writers.

All events will be in the Penguin Union Building (PUB) on Clark College's main campus, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver.  Directions and maps are available online.

Creative Writing Festival Schedule:

May 27, 10 am–Noon, PUB258: 
Reading & Conversation with New York Times bestselling young adult and adult fiction author Emiko Jean

May 28, 10 am–Noon, PUB161: 
“The Swift” release party with student readings and a celebration of the publication of the 3^rd edition of Clark's student-run literary journal

May 29, 10–11 am, PUB258:
Columbia Writers Series Fiction Reading: Chelsea Bieker

May 29, 3-4 pm, Cannell Library:
Book release celebration for Clark Professor Gerry Smith’s collaborative project Coyote and Bear Discuss Modern Art

May 30, 11am–Noon, PUB258: 
Yoga for Creativity

May 31, 10 am–5 pm, Penguin Union Building:
Spring Writing Workshop: A full day of writing workshops, readings, and community building. Includes free lunch, coffee, and pastries.  Reserve your free tickets here.

Clark College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds. If you need accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event, please contact Clark College’s Human Resources Office. Phone: 360-992-2105 or email: hr@clark.edu/.

For a detailed schedule and listing of the Writing Workshop, please check here:

Opening Remarks by Susan Dingle, the current Clark County Poet Laurate. Dingle earned a master’s degree in creative writing from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She is the author of two books: In Pilgram Drag, published by Finishing Line Press and Parting Gifts, published by Local Gems. Dingle earned a Master of Social Work degree at SUNY Stony Brook University and is a licensed clinical social worker and alcohol and substance abuse counselor.

Workshop: Letters and Poems, Poems and Letters with Jeff Alessandrelli, a writer and editor living in Portland. The Kenyon Review called his most recent poetry collection Fur Not Light “an example of radical humility."  Jeff Alessandrelli is the author of the novel  And Yet. In addition to his writing Jeff also directs and co-edits the non-profit record label/book press Fonograf Editions. 

Workshop: Writing with Ghosts in the Archival Machine with Katy Anastasi (she/her), a Reference & Instruction Librarian at Clark College and a graduate student at Eastern Oregon University’s MFA in Creative Writing program. In this generative, open-genre craft workshop, participants will explore various library and archival materials with sensitivity to ghosts in the archival machine. 

Workshop: Writing the Magical, Writing the Real: On Making Magical Stories Believable with Emme Lund, an author living and writing in Portland, OR. She has an MFA from Mills College. Her debut novel, The Boy with a Bird in His Chest (Atria Books, 2022) was longlisted for the First Novel Prize from the Center For Fiction, was a finalist for an Oregon Book Award, was named a best book of the year by Buzzfeed and The Portland Mercury, and was included on lists in The Washington Post, USA Today, People Magazine, The Advocate, Cosmopolitan, and Shondaland. 

Workshop: Talk Short to Me with Elena Passarello, whose essays on performance, pop culture, and the natural world have been translated into six languages. Her recent work appears in the New York Times Book Review, Paris Review, Audubon and Best American Science and Nature Writing.  She is the author of two collections, the most recent of which, Animals Strike Curious Poses, was a New York Times Editor’s Choice. Her next book, about the spotty legacy of Elvis Presley, is forthcoming from Penguin Press in 2027. You can hear Elena every week on the nationally syndicated public radio program Live Wire! This class works through a few of Carson's short talks and closes with a generative prompt to get you started on a Talk of your own.

Workshop: ‘As You Know, Captain…’ Avoiding Infodump in Speculative Fiction with Joe Pitkin. Pitkin has lived, taught, and studied in England, Hungary, Mexico, and at Clark College in Vancouver, Washington. His short stories have appeared in The Boston Review, Analog, Black Static, Cosmos, and other magazines and podcasts, as well as on his blog, The Subway Test. Stranger Bird, his first novel, was published in 2017; his most recent novel, Exit Black, was published by Blackstone last year. 

Workshop: Character Development: A Generative Tarot Writing Journey with Selah Saterstrom, the author of the innovative novels Slab, The Meat and Spirit Plan, and The Pink Institution, as well as two nonfiction collections, Rancher and the award-winning Ideal Suggestions: Essays in Divinatory Poetics. Selah Saterstrom is the co-founder of Four Queens Divination, an online platform dedicated to the intersection of creative writing and divinatory arts, where she offers classes and mentorship. 

Workshop: Zenyatta Mondatta with Ed Skoogm, the author of four collections of poetry, Mister Skylight, Rough Day, Run the Red Lights, and Travelers Leaving for the City. His poems have appeared in The New Yorker, Harper's Magazine, The New Republic, American Poetry Review, and the Best American Poetry series. This generative poetry workshop will focus on how poems can sound amazing and memorable, with language that resonates before it even means. 

Workshop: Poetry and Art: Ekphrastic Poetry with Gerald Donnelly Smith, who has published poems in various literary journals including The Adirondack Review, hummingbird, River Wind, Icon, and Talking Leaves as well as the anthologies War (Green Haven, 2007), The X-Y Experience (2001), and Playing with a Full Deck. He served as the director of the Columbia Writers Series at Clark College for seven years. In this workshop, we will review the different methods for writing poetry about artwork, focusing on painting. We will briefly discuss example poems about Van Gogh's "Starry Night.”  

Workshop: Multidisciplinary Workshop: Reading & Writing with Images by Dao Strom, a poet, musician, writer, and interdisciplinary artist who works with three “voices”—written, sung, visual—to explore hybridity and the intersection of personal and collective histories. She is the author/composer of several hybrid-literary works, including the poetry-art collection, INSTRUMENT, and its musical companion of song-poems, TRAVELER’S ODE, and the forthcoming TENDER REVOLUTIONS/YELLOW SONGS (2025). Recently, she co-edited/co-curated the hybrid-literary anthology + exhibit A MOUTH HOLDS MANY THINGS (2024). Strom’s work encompasses both solo and collaborative art and writing projects, and has received support from the Creative Capital Foundation, NEA, Oregon Community Foundation, and others. 

Workshop: Multidisciplinary Workshop: Reading & Writing with Images by Dr. Tara Williams (she/her), who earned her MFA in Fiction at Fresno State University. She also holds a masters and doctorate in education. Currently she teaches composition and literature courses at Clark. Her literary work has appeared in Southwest Review, Tales of the Fantastic, Fatal Flaw, and other publications, and her short stories have been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and Best of the Net. An excerpt from her novel-in-progress won an honorable mention for the Plentitudes Prize, and an audio adaptation of one of her short stories took second place in Sycamore Review’s Deanna Tulley Multimedia Contest. Her work is also included in the climate fiction anthology Fire & Water: Stories of the Anthropocene (Black Lawrence Press, 2021).

Workshop: The Poetry of Memoir by Jane Wong, the author of the memoir Meet Me Tonight in Atlantic City (Tin House, 2023), winner of the Washington State Book Award. She also wrote two poetry collections: How to Not Be Afraid of Everything (Alice James, 2021) and Overpour (Action Books, 2016). She is the recipient of a Pushcart Prize and fellowships and residencies from the U.S. Fulbright Program, Harvard's Woodberry Poetry Room, Artist Trust, Hedgebrook, Ucross, Loghaven, the Barbara Deming Memorial Fund, and others. An interdisciplinary artist as well, she has exhibited her poetry installations and performances at the Frye Art Museum, Richmond Art Gallery, and the Asian Art Museum. She grew up in a take-out restaurant on the Jersey shore and is an Associate Professor at Western Washington University. 

About Clark College 

Founded in 1933, Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. It is a public community college offering more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves a wide range of students including high school students, displaced workers, veterans, parents, non-native English speakers, and mature learners. Approximately 45% of its students are in the first generation of their families to attend college.   

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