SALEM, Ore. – The State Forests Advisory Committee will meet in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry, 2600 State Street in Salem on Friday, Oct. 24 at 9 a.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please contact Emily Shook at 503-945-7363.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Fire season update
• Budget update
• Fiscal year 2025-26 current status
• Accomplishments
• Forest Management Plan (FMP)/Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) update
• Forest health
• Recreation, education & interpretation re-organization
• Planning

The public may attend in-person or online via Teams. Public comments will be accepted near the start of the meeting. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting Emily Shook at 503-945-7363. 

The State Forests Advisory Committee (SFAC) is comprised of citizens and representatives of timber, environmental and recreation groups as well as a representative from Oregon’s Native American tribes. The SFAC provides a forum to discuss issues, opportunities and concerns, and offer advice and guidance to ODF on the implementation of the Northwest Oregon State Forests Management Plan. The plan provides guidance for managing 616,000 acres within the Tillamook, Clatsop and Santiam State Forests, and several scattered state-owned forest tracts in Benton, Polk, Lincoln and Lane counties through a balanced approach to generate revenue while prioritizing environmental and social benefits.

The Clackamas Fire District Board of Directors will meet on Monday, October 20, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. The agenda includes division reports, board training, a Strategic Business Plan update, committee assignments, and a request for approval of budgeting software.

If you would like to provide public comment during the meeting, you must sign up by Monday, October 20, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Please sign up by filling out the Public Meeting Comments form on our website: https://clackamasfire.com/public-meeting-comments/. 

The public can attend either by remote video conferencing or in person at the Clackamas Fire Training Center (15990 SE 130^th Ave., Clackamas, OR 97015). If you would like to attend online or by phone, please access Clackamas Fire District’s website for the Zoom meeting link and passcode at: https://clackamasfire.com/public-notices/.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Chayton Owings, age 13, a child in foster care who went missing from Portland on Oct. 02. Chayton is believed to be in danger.

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

Chayton is suspected to be in the outlying areas of the Portland Metro area and is known to frequent forest areas.

Name: Chayton Owings
Pronouns: He/him
Date of birth: Feb. 1, 2012
Height: 4-foot-9
Weight: 94 pounds
Hair: Brown
Eye color: Blue gray
Portland Police Bureau #25-272053
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2063587

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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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Oct. 16, 2025

Media Contact: Communications@employ.oregon.gov

MEDIA STATEMENT

Seasonal trends driving recent increase in initial Unemployment Insurance claims

Salem, Ore. – Driven primarily by annual seasonal trends, initial Unemployment Insurance (UI) claims in Oregon have risen over the past two weeks. This increase was expected and falls within OED projections entering the agency’s busiest period of the year from October through February.

“As expected, we’re not seeing a major impact on our workload from the ongoing federal shutdown, but we recognize the uncertainty and financial strain this has caused for many Oregonians,” UI Director Lindsi Leahy said. “We remain ready to support Oregonians.”

OED has detailed guidance for federal employees at OED’s Federal Shutdown page.

Although federal claims data is still preliminary, new applications from federal employees have increased in recent weeks. Because federal employees represent a small share of Oregon’s workforce (about 1.5%), and the shutdown only accounts for some of those claims, the shutdown has likely played a limited role in the overall increase.

As shown in the table below, initial claims were, on average, 25 percent higher for the past two weeks compared to the final full week of September. Weekly claims have also risen during that period, but the increases have been smaller.

Initial and Weekly UI Claims – Sept. 21 – Oct. 11

About Federal Claims

Preliminary data indicates the number of federal employees applying for benefits has also increased over the past two weeks. OED can only estimate those figures because claims that include wages from federal employers take weeks for OED to process and confirm. That delay stems from the fact that, unlike most other employers in Oregon, the federal government does not submit quarterly wage data to OED, and it often takes weeks for OED to receive that information after a federal employee files a claim.

Some initial claims with federal wages filed over the past two weeks may result from regular seasonal federal layoffs or deferred buyout agreements that expired at the end of the federal fiscal year on Sept. 30, so OED cannot determine exactly how many are tied to the federal shutdown.

OED does track Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE) claims as part of reporting to the U.S. Department of Labor, but that data takes weeks to finalize. This metric does not represent all claims from federal workers because UCFE only includes cases where all wages were from the federal government.

As of Oct. 15, OED has confirmed 118 UCFE claims for the week of Sept. 28-Oct. 4, or roughly 3.6 percent of all initial claims that week. Last week, 178 of the 3,129 initial claims (or 5.7% percent) were confirmed as UCFE. These figures will continue to change as additional information becomes available and should not be interpreted as the total number of furloughed federal employees in Oregon who have applied for benefits.

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The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov.

PORTLAND, Ore.—An Italian man unlawfully residing in Oregon was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for his role in a large multi-state criminal conspiracy that stole more than $2.4 million dollars of benefits from hundreds of low-income and food insecure individuals and families.

Giovanni Spirea, 29, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $61,874.32 in restitution.

According to court documents, from August 2023 to October 2024, Spirea and his co-conspirators used electronic skimming devices to steal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, encoded the stolen data on cloned Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, and illegally purchased items with the stolen benefits. Spirea shared stolen account information with other members of the organization, who, along with him, used the stolen benefits to purchase large quantities of infant formula, energy drinks, and other SNAP-eligible nonperishable food items from grocery stores in Oregon, Washington, and California, and through websites associated with grocery stores offering curb-side pickup.

Over the course of the conspiracy, the group purchased more than 120,000 pounds of goods and stored them at residential properties and storage units in Oregon and Washington until they were packaged and transported to California in private vehicles or via commercial carriers. The fraudulent goods, with an estimated value of more than $2.4 million, were then sold on the black market.

“Protecting government funded programs, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program isn’t just about preserving funds – it’s about safeguarding trust in a vital lifeline that millions of families depend on to put food on the table,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “Today’s sentencing should deter perpetrators from defrauding American families and the federal government for personal gain.”

“The USDA OIG is dedicated to upholding the integrity of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. We will work relentlessly with our law enforcement partners to pursue justice and hold conspirators accountable for stealing SNAP benefits from American families. We thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshals Service, Portland Police Bureau, Oregon Department of Justice, Vancouver Police Department, and all our partner agencies on this joint investigation,” said U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General (USDA OIG) Special Agent-in-Charge Shawn Dionida.

“The theft of benefits intended for families in need is a serious crime,” said Portland Police Chief Bob Day. “We remain committed to holding accountable those who exploit public resources for personal gain.”

“By siphoning millions of dollars in government funds intended for food-insecure households, this illegal criminal alien proved to be one of the worst of the worst,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Seattle acting Special Agent in Charge April Miller. “Through the strength of our law enforcement partnerships, HSI remains steadfast in protecting the integrity of our nation’s treasury and pursuing the criminals engaged in financial crimes that defraud our nation’s assistance programs.”

On October 9, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 16-count indictment charging Spirea and sixteen co-conspirators. Spirea was charged with Conspiracy to Defraud the United States and Unauthorized Use of Access Devices.

On July 30, 2025, Spirea pleaded guilty to Count One of the Indictment charging Conspiracy to Defraud the United States.

The case was investigated by the USDA OIG, HSI, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Portland Police Bureau, the Oregon Department of Justice, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, the Vancouver Police Department, the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Office, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Gresham Police Department, and the Redmond, Washington Police Department Financial Fraud and Identification Theft Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Geoffrey A. Barrow and Nicholas D. Meyers, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Western District of Washington and Central District of California.

# # #

The next regular public meeting of the FVRLibraries Board of Trustees is 6 p.m. Oct. 20 at La Center Wheel Club Community Center. It will be a hybrid (in-person/online) meeting. View the agenda and meeting materials at <a href="https://www.fvrl.org/about/board-of-trustees/">fvrl.org/about/board-of-trustees/</a>.

October 16, 2025

Portland, OR-Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Brian Davidson reviewed the investigation into the shooting of Luis Adrian Cervantes-Santiago. He was shot during a confrontation with neighbors and then police near NE 116th and NE Sandy on June 6, 2025.

SDDA Davidson concluded the use of force was justified under Oregon law and therefore not criminal.

The memo supporting his decision is attached.

Separately, a Multnomah County Grand Jury indicted Cervantes-Santiago for several crimes committed during the incident including Attempted Murder in the Second Degree with a Firearm, Unlawful use of a Weapon, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, and Menacing.

The indictment is also attached.

Prineville, Ore. – Effective 12:01 a.m. on October 17, 2025, the Central Oregon District (COD) of the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) will officially end fire season for all forestlands protected by the district. This includes over 2.3 million acres of private, state, county, municipal, and tribal lands, which includes Hood River, Wasco, Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Gilliam, Wheeler, Morrow, Grant, and Harney counties.

This fire season statistically was an average fire season by the numbers but nowhere near average regarding response. For example:

• ODF Central Oregon District was one of the first to respond to the Rowena Fire, the first large fire of the 2025 season in Oregon, which burned 3,700 acres just outside of The Dalles;
• ODF Central Oregon District assisted federal partners with the Cram Fire, which grew roughly 20,000-acres each day for a week, and;
• ODF Central Oregon District responded to the Flat Fire where wildland and structural firefighters saved 827 residences within the fire perimeter. 

“This fire season showed the endurance and dedication of our Central Oregon ODF firefighters,” said Rob Pentzer, ODF Central Oregon District Forester. “There were several times where our firefighters were working two to three weeks straight alternating between extended and initial attack duties to protect Oregon communities.”

With the conclusion of fire season, landowners under ODF protection may resume burning residential yard debris and using burn barrels. However, this change does not relieve anyone of their legal responsibility to burn safely and responsibly.

Burning & Smoke Management Guidelines

• Residential Burning (Yard Debris/Burn Barrels): A burn permit is required outside of fire season on lands protected by ODF's Prineville/Sisters Unit and The Dalles Unit, but not in the John Day/Fossil Unit.
  
  If you are within a fire department’s protection area, check with them directly about current restrictions and permit requirements.Call your local district to validate that the burn ban has been lifted in your area.
   
• Slash Burning (Forestry/Logging): Burning of slash from forestry operations requires a Notification of Operation/PDM, as well as checking the smoke management weather forecast:
  • Call your local ODF office below
  •  Visit: ODF Smoke Management Forecast

ODF’s Central Oregon District sincerely thanks landowners, forest operators, the public, and interagency partners for their support in fire prevention, detection, and suppression throughout the 2025 fire season.

For more information, contact your local ODF office:

• Prineville/Sisters Unit: 541-447-5658
• The Dalles Unit: 541-296-4626
• John Day/ Fossil Unit: 541-575-1139

For more information on the Central Oregon District and fire season regulations, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/. To report a fire, please call 911.

SALEM, Ore. — El Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon (ODHS por sus siglas en inglés) empezó a enviar avisos por correo postal el 15 de octubre del 2025, a las personas en Oregon que solicitaron beneficios de alimentos del Programa de Asistencia para Nutrición Suplementaria (SNAP por sus siglas en inglés) entre el 4 de julio y el 30 de septiembre del 2025, y cuyos beneficios de alimentos cambiarán o terminarán debido a los nuevos cambios federales del Congreso y el Presidente de los Estados Unidos (en inglés).

Durante los próximos 10 meses, ODHS usará las nuevas leyes del Proyecto de ley H.R.1 al actualizar los beneficios de SNAP.

Estos cambios son exigidos por la ley federal y afectarán a más de 313,000 personas que actualmente reciben SNAP en Oregon.

“Sabemos lo importante que es SNAP para las familias en todo Oregon,” dijo Dana Hittle, ODHS subdirectora en funciones y colíder del equipo de respuesta federal de la agencia. “Estamos compartiendo esta información en este momento para que las personas puedan prepararse. Cualquier reducción en los beneficios hace más difícil poner comida en la mesa y ODHS se compromete a ayudar a las familias a adaptarse y encontrar apoyo.”

Fechas importantes

• 15 de octubre del 2025: Empezamos a enviar avisos por correo postal a los grupos familiares afectados que solicitaron o renovaron sus beneficios entre el 4 de julio y el 30 de septiembre
• 1 de noviembre del 2025: Las primeras reducciones de beneficios y los primeros cierres de casos entrarán en vigencia
• A través del 2026: Los cambios adicionales se implementarán a medida que los grupos familiares renueven sus beneficios o cuando estos se actualicen

Las personas que se verán afectadas

Asistencia con servicios públicos y beneficios de SNAP

Los grupos familiares que antes eran elegibles para la Ayuda Económica Completa de Servicios Públicos para Calefacción y Refrigeración (Full Utility Allowance, FUA por sus siglas en inglés) a través de programas como el Programa de Asistencia de Energía para Hogares de Bajos Ingresos (LIHEAP por sus siglas en inglés) o el programa Heat and Eat verán cambios.

• Únicamente los grupos familiares que tengan por lo menos una persona de 60 años o más o una persona con una discapacidad serán automáticamente elegibles para FUA debido a la asistencia con energía.
• Todos los grupos familiares que pagan por calefacción y aire acondicionado por separado del pago de su vivienda aún serán elegibles para FUA incluso si reciben ayuda para pagar parte de su factura de energía.
• Aproximadamente 29,000 grupos familiares perderán el FUA, lo cual reducirá sus beneficios por un promedio de $58 por mes.
• Más o menos 9,600 grupos familiares recibirán avisos el 15 de octubre del 2025 sobre las reducciones a sus beneficios que iniciarán el 1 de noviembre de 2025.

Adultos sanos sin dependientes (ABAWD)

Empezando el 1 de octubre del 2025, las reglas de trabajo para ABAWD se ampliarán para incluir a los adultos de 18 a 64 años de edad que no tengan niños menores de 14 años en su grupo de SNAP.

• Las personas que cumplen con una exención no necesitan cumplir con las normas de trabajo de ABAWD para recibir SNAP. Para ver una lista completa de las exenciones, visite el sitio web de las normas de trabajo de SNAP y haga clic en “Quien está exento” bajo la sección de Exenciones.
• Las personas que no cumplen con las normas de ABAWD podrían perder sus beneficios después de tres meses.
• Las normas de H.R.1 iniciaron en los condados de Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, Yamhill, Benton and Hood River el 1 de octubre del 2025, y pronto se ampliarán a todo el estado.
• Alrededor de 310,000 adultos serán evaluados nuevamente para los requisitos de las normas de trabajo.

Si usted cree que estas normas aplican a usted, no espere para empezar a hacer un plan.
Comuníquese con el equipo de ABAWD de ODHS llamando al 833-947-1694, enviando un correo electrónico a AWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov">SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov o visite una oficina local de ODHS, encuentre una cerca de usted en odhsoffices.oregon.gov

Refugiados, asilados y otros inmigrantes presentes legalmente

Algunos grupos que antes eran elegibles para SNAP – incluyendo a los refugiados, los asilados, los sobrevivientes de trata y otras personas con un permiso condicional para estar en el país legalmente— ya no serán elegibles para SNAP bajo H.R.1.

• El 15 de octubre del 2025, aproximadamente 1,000 personas empezarán a recibir avisos que sus beneficios terminarán el 31 de octubre del 2025.
• Otras 2,000 personas perderán su elegibilidad cuando se actualicen sus beneficios más adelante.

Apoyo y recursos

ODHS entiende que estos cambios federales afectarán a cientos de miles de personas en Oregon. Aunque el estado debe seguir las reglas federales, hay ayuda y recursos disponibles.

Los recursos de alimentos en su comunidad:

• Visite el sitio web de Recursos de alimentos de ODHS para encontrar programas locales y apoyo con alimentos.

Adultos mayores y personas con discapacidades:

• Comuníquese con la Conexión de Recursos para Adultos Mayores y Personas Con Discapacidades de Oregon (ADRC) para obtener ayuda encontrando recursos del gobierno y de la comunidad.
• Llame al 1-855-673-2372 o visite www.adrcoforegon.org.

Más recursos:

• Comuníquese con 211info marcando 2-1-1, enviando un texto de su código postal al 898-211, o visitando www.211info.org.

Comuníquese con ODHS

Si tiene preguntas o necesita ayuda para entender estos cambios, comuníquese con ODHS:

• Teléfono: 1-800-699-9075 o 711 (TTY), aceptamos llamadas de retransmisión
• En persona: Visite una oficina local (encuentre una en línea)
• Correo postal: ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309
• En línea: Ingrese a su cuenta en línea de ONE en beneficios.oregon.gov

Sobre SNAP en Oregon

SNAP ayuda a más de 1 de cada 6 personas de Oregon – aproximadamente 18 por ciento de los hogares – a comprar comida. Esto incluye a niños, familias que trabajan, adultos mayores, y personas con discapacidades.

Cada $1 en beneficios de SNAP genera de $1.50 a $1.80 en actividad económica local aportando alrededor de $1.6 mil millones a la economía del estado cada año.

Aún con este apoyo, muchas familias luchan para poder cubrir sus necesidades básicas.

ODHS se compromete a asegurar que las personas de Oregon reciban la cantidad correcta de beneficios de alimentos de SNAP para la que son elegibles.

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SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) began mailing notices Oct. 15, 2025, to people in Oregon who applied for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits between July 4 through Sept. 30, 2025, and whose food benefits will change or end due to new federal changes from the U.S. Congress and the President..

During the next 10 months, ODHS will use the new H.R.1 laws when SNAP benefits are updated.

These changes are required by federal law and will affect more than 313,000 people currently receiving SNAP in Oregon.

“We know how important SNAP is to families across Oregon,” said Dana Hittle, ODHS Acting Deputy Director and co-lead of the agency’s federal response team. “We are sharing this information now so people can prepare. Any reduction in benefits makes it harder to put food on the table, and ODHS is committed to helping families adjust and find support.”

Key dates

• Oct. 15, 2025: Notices begin mailing to affected households who applied or renewed July 4 through September 30
• Nov. 1, 2025: First benefit reductions and case closures take effect
• Through 2026: Additional changes will roll out as households renew benefits or when benefits are updated

People who will be affected

Utility assistance and SNAP benefits

Households that qualified for the Full Utility Allowance (FUA) through programs like LIHEAP or Heat and Eat will see changes.

• Only households with at least one member who is 60 or older or has a disability will automatically qualify for FUA due to energy assistance.
• All households who pay heat or cooling separate from housing will still qualify for FUA, including if energy assistance pays for part of their heat or cooling bill.
• About 29,000 households will lose FUA, reducing their benefits by an average of $58 per month.
• Roughly 9,600 households will receive notices Oct. 15, 2025, about benefit reductions beginning Nov. 1, 2025.

Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD)

Starting Oct. 1, 2025, ABAWD work rules expand to adults ages 18–64 without children under 14 in their SNAP group.

• People who meet an exemption do not have to meet the ABAWD work rules to get SNAP. To see a full list of exemptions, visit the SNAP Work Rules website and click on “Who is exempt” under the Exemptions section.
• People who do not meet the ABAWD work rules may lose benefits after three months.
• The H.R.1 rules began in Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, Yamhill, Benton and Hood River counties on Oct. 1, 2025, and will soon expand statewide.
• About 310,000 adults will be newly evaluated for work rule requirements.

If you think these rules may apply to you, don’t wait to start planning.
Contact the ODHS ABAWD team at 833-947-1694, email AWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov">SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov or visit a local ODHS office, find one near you at, odhsoffices.oregon.gov

Refugees, asylees and certain other lawfully present immigrants

Some groups who previously qualified for SNAP — including refugees, asylees, trafficking survivors and other conditionally allowed non-citizens who have not received a lawful permanent resident status— will lose eligibility under H.R.1.

• On Oct. 15, 2025, about 1,000 individuals will begin receiving notices that their benefits will end Oct. 31, 2025.
• Another 2,000 people will lose eligibility during future benefit updates.

Support and resources

ODHS understands that these federal changes will affect hundreds of thousands of people in Oregon. While the state must follow federal rules, help and resources are available.

Food resources in your community:

• Visit the ODHS Food Resources website to find local programs and food support.

Older adults and people with disabilities:

• Connect with the Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC) for help finding government and community resources.
• Call 1-855-673-2372 or visit www.adrcoforegon.org.

More resources:

• Contact 211info by dialing 2-1-1, texting your ZIP code to 898-211, or visiting www.211info.org.

Contact ODHS

If you have questions or need help understanding these changes, contact ODHS:

• Phone: 1-800-699-9075 or 711 (TTY), relay calls welcome
• In person: Visit a local office (find one online)
• Mail: ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309
• Online: Log into your ONE Online account at benefits.oregon.gov

About SNAP in Oregon

SNAP helps more than 1 in 6 Oregonians — about 18 percent of households — buy groceries. This includes children, working families, older adults and people with disabilities.

Every $1 in SNAP benefits generates $1.50 to $1.80 in local economic activity, driving an estimated $1.6 billion into Oregon’s economy each year.

Even with this support, many families still struggle to meet their basic needs.

ODHS is committed to making sure people in Oregon get the right amount of SNAP food benefits they qualify for.

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Oct. 16, 2025

Media contact: Kim Lippert, 971-323-3831,erly.L.Lippert@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">Kimberly.L.Lippert@oha.oregon.gov

Program contact: Anna Williams, 971-720-9654, anna.k.williams@dhsoha.state.or.us

System of Care Advisory Council hosts a hybrid meeting Oct. 21

What: A regular public meeting of the System of Care Advisory Council

When: Tue., Oct. 21, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Where:

• By webinar at ZoomGov
  • Meeting ID: 160 988 8607, Passcode: 797793
  • Dial by your location +1 669 254 5252, US (San Jose)
• In-Person Location:
  • Portland State Office Building (PSOB) Room 1D 800 NE Oregon Street, Portland, OR 97232

Agenda: The Oct. 21, System of Care Advisory Council (SOCAC) meeting will include a Local SOC Spotlight presentation from the Columbia Gorge System of Care. The Council will focus on reviewing the SOCAC Strategic Plan, with time dedicated to reflecting on each goal area and discussing progress toward meeting the Council’s legislative mandate to create a statewide plan for the children’s behavioral health system.

Following the main review, Council members and participants will take part in small group discussions to review the draft Implementation Plan, identify priorities, and provide feedback to strengthen statewide coordination and accountability.  Public comment will be heard at approximately 2:30 p.m.

The full agenda can be found here.

Background: Senate Bill 1 (2019) established a Governor-appointed System of Care Advisory Council to improve the efficacy and effectiveness of the state and local continuum of care that provides services to youth and young adults.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters.
• Written materials in other languages.
• Braille.
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact Anna Williams, 971-720-9654, anna.k.williams@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

MEDIA ADVISORY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Press Invited: Camas Lions Club Hosts Community “Period Pad Project”

Saturday, October 18, 10:00 AM–3:30 PM • 

11312 NE 207th Ave
Brush Prairie, WA  98606
United States

What:

The Camas Lions Club invites local media to cover a hands-on community service event assembling reusable menstrual pad kits for girls in need. The project features two volunteer teams—Sewing (bring a personal sewing machine) and Non-Sewing (pattern tracing, fabric cutting, Velcro cutting)—so community members of all skill levels can participate.

When:

Saturday, October 18, 2025

10:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Best visuals 10:15–12:00 and 1:00–2:30)

Where:

11312 NE 207th Ave
Brush Prairie, WA  98606
United States

Who:

Camas Lions Club members, community volunteers, and partners.

This effort is in partnership with the Keeping a Girl in School Lions Club (Nairobi, Kenya) to support dignity, health, and continuous education for girls.

Why it matters:

Globally, lack of access to menstrual supplies can lead to school absenteeism. Reusable pad kits offer a sustainable, cost-effective solution that helps keep girls in school and thriving.

Media Opportunities:

• Strong visuals of collaborative cutting, sewing, and kit assembly
• Interviews with project leads and volunteers about local-to-global impact
• B-roll of finished kits and materials workflow
• Human-interest stories connecting Camas volunteers with girls overseas

Spokespeople Available:

• Camas Lions project lead(s) Su Scott & Sherry Keene
• Partner/liaison for Keeping a Girl in School (virtual or prepared statement, as available) Stephanie O'Dell - Camas; Ivy Kuira - Kenya

RSVP / Check-In:

Please email to confirm attendance and receive location updates, interview windows, and on-site contact details.

SALEM, Ore. — The Regional Forest Practice Committee for southwest Oregon will meet at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 23 at the Douglas Forest Protective Association office, 1758 NE Airport Road, Roseburg. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please email estresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov">forestresources.committees@odf.oregon.gov.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Forest practices rulemaking: Post-disturbance rules, tethered logging
• Division and field updates
• Operator of the Year decision
• Forest Practices Technical Guidance update
• Habitat Conservation Plan status
• Forest Resources Division Training Team summary
• Forest Practices Compliance Monitoring Program update

The public may attend in-person or online via Teams. Public comments will be accepted. 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.

Regional Forest Practices Committees are panels of citizens – mandated under Oregon law – that advise the Oregon Board of Forestry and may assist the Board of Forestry in developing appropriate forest practice rules. The committees are comprised of citizens qualified by education or experience in natural resource management. In 1971, the legislature enacted Oregon’s Forest Practices Act which includes three Regional Forest Practices Committees, serving the Eastern, Northwest, and Southwest regions of the state. Under Oregon law, a majority of the committees’ members must be private forest landowners and logging or forest operations companies.

Oregon’s forests are among the state’s most valued resources, providing a balanced mix of environmental, economic, and social benefits. View more information on the RFPC webpage.

On Tuesday, October 14^th, 2025, at approximately 5:37 p.m., Forest Grove Police Department Officers responded to a report of a missing person near the intersection of Valley Crest Way and Circle Crest Drive.  Family members reported 78-year-old Thomas Weightman left their nearby residence on foot at approximately 10 a.m. but did not return home.  During a brief cellphone contact, Thomas said he fell into a hole and was unsure of his location.  Attempts to locate Thomas using cell phone triangulation have been unsuccessful in the remote area. 

Thomas is described as 5’9’’, 165 lbs. with gray hair, gray beard, and glasses.  Thomas was last seen wearing black shoes, blue jeans, a red flannel bottom-up shirt, and a dark colored baseball hat. 

Continued search efforts coordinated by the Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR) team are underway, and searchers are asking residents along Gales Creek Road for help checking their property. Specifically, SAR is asking for property owners South of NW Wilson River Highway, along NW Gales Creek Road, down to NW Mystic Drive, with an Eastern boundary of NW Shearer Road.

Anyone who has seen Thomas after 3:30 p.m. on October 14, 2025, is asked to call non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 and 911 if he is located. 

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is warning community members to be aware of “smishing” text messaging scams.

According to cybersecurity experts, smishing scams utilize fake text messages to trick people into downloading malware, sharing sensitive information, or providing money to cybercriminals.

These text messages may appear innocuous at first. Often, they look like a message sent to the wrong person.

However, in reality, they are part of a widespread scam campaign. Scammers will send out thousands of these texts to random phone numbers, hoping someone will reply.

If you respond, scammers can confirm that your phone number is active and that they’ve reached a real person.

From there, they often continue messaging to build trust and legitimacy, ultimately seeking to steal personal or financial information.

Recent examples of text messages sent to MCSO employees include: 

• “You have a package waiting for delivery, please click here to confirm receipt.” 
• “Are you still at your workplace?” 
• “Can I speak with you for a moment?” 
• “Hi, we missed you at last night’s event.”  
• “Hello.” 
• “We’d like to connect with you about your current role.” 
• “Text me when you’re free, okay.”  

How to protect yourself: 

• Don’t reply to unknown or suspicious text messages. It’s not rude to protect yourself. 
• Block and report unknown and suspicious phone numbers as junk or spam on your phone. 
• Never share personal or financial information by text – especially with someone you don’t know. 
• Never click on a link sent via text from a number or person you do not know.  

MCSO reminds everyone that staying alert and skeptical of unexpected messages is one of the best ways to protect your privacy and financial security. 

Several examples of smishing text messages are being provided. Media may use these graphics with credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 10/16/2025

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS October 16, 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/87931930355
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 253 215 8782, +8 793 193 0355, +1 346 248 7799

A25-23820

FRAUD INVESTIGATION AND ARREST

OCTOBER 15, 2025

On October 3, 2025, Sergeant Riley McNeal with the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by an elderly male who reported he was the victim of a theft.  The subject reported that they had been getting pop-up ads on their computer which appeared to be from Norton Anti-Virus and called what he believed to be representatives of that company. When the victim allowed a subject to access their computer to pay a $350 refund, the suspect then showed banking information indicating $35,000 had accidentally been deposited into the victims’ account.

The victim was told to withdraw $34,000 in cash from their account, then was given instructions to meet a “Norton employee” to return the funds.  The victim met with an Asian male at the Sparks Chevron in Lexington.  The male subject took the cash and drove away at a high speed.  Realizing he had been scammed, the victim was able to get the California license plate for the vehicle.  The victim later learned the suspect(s) had moved money from the victim’s savings account and put it into his checking account, to make it look like he had been overpaid.

Sgt. McNeal learned that the vehicle was involved in a similar case being investigated by the Henderson Nevada Police Department.  With help from Henderson PD, the vehicle was located at a hotel in Kent, WA.  The driver had rented a room under the name of Wushai Weng, age 35, of Monterey Park, California.  Cell phone data confirmed Weng was in the area of the Sparks Chevron at the time of the incident, and he matched the description of the suspect caught on surveillance video.  Sgt. McNeal was also able to link Weng to a similar theft of $20,000 on October 10, 2025, which is being investigated by Everett Police Department.

On October 13, 2025, Cowlitz County deputies served a search warrant on Weng’s vehicle and his hotel room in Kent, Washington, with assistance from Kent Police Department. Deputies found Weng and other subjects in the hotel room, in possession of tools used to alter credit cards.  Deputies also recovered approximately 200 gift cards from Apple, Visa, Mastercard and other companies.  Numerous cell phones and other devices were also recovered. 

Deputies have determined that in the last ten months, Weng has traveled throughout California, Arizona, Nevada, Washington, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Utah and Florida.  Multiple investigations are ongoing.  Due to the Keep Washington Working Act, deputies are unable to contact Immigration and Customs Enforcement to confirm Weng’s immigration status.

Wushai Weng was booked into Cowlitz County Jail on charges of Theft 1^st Degree, Criminal Conspiracy, Money Laundering, Financial Fraud and Credit/Payment Cards – Unlawful Factoring of Transactions.  Weng was also served with a warrant out of Henderson, Nevada.

The Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office encourages citizens to check on their elder family members, educate them about these types of financial crimes, and to seek ways to safeguard their funds.  The following websites contain further information:

Washington State Attorney General’s Office - https://www.atg.wa.gov/senior-fraud

FBI - https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/elder-fraud

Troy Brightbill

Chief Criminal Deputy

Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland woman made her first appearance in federal court today after assaulting a federal officer near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Oriana Korol, 38, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony offense of assaulting a federal officer.

According to court documents, on the evening of October 12, 2025, federal officers detained Korol after she interfered with an arrest of another subject. Korol kicked and bit a federal officer as she was being detained. Officers then arrested her for assaulting a federal officer.

Since June 13, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office has charged 34 defendants with federal crimes for offenses committed at the ICE building, including assaulting federal officers, failure to comply, and depredation of government property.

Korol made her first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. She was released on conditions pending further court proceedings.

Felony assault of a federal officer is punishable by up to eight years in federal prison. 

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

# # #

After a distinguished 40-year career in the fire service, Lebanon Fire Chief Joseph Rodondi has announced his retirement, marking the close of a lifetime dedicated to public service, mentorship, and community protection. The Lebanon Fire District Board of Directors voted unanimously on October 14, 2025, to appoint Division Chief John Tacy as the next Fire Chief, effective November 2025.

Chief Rodondi’s journey began more than four decades ago in 1983, when an EMT course at junior college introduced him to the fire service. A required ride-along with a local fire department changed the direction of his life. “I immediately fell in love with the fire service culture—what they do for the community, how they keep people safe, and the sense of purpose that comes with it,” he said. That passion led him to pursue a degree in fire science, volunteer in March 1985, and became a career firefighter later that same year.
 

Over the years, Rodondi rose through every rank—Firefighter, Paramedic, Engineer, Captain, Battalion Chief, Deputy Chief, and ultimately Fire Chief. Before coming to Lebanon, he served with the San Bruno Fire Department and the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department, earning a reputation as a strong leader with a collaborative spirit and a deep respect for the profession.

Since joining the Lebanon Fire District in 2019, Chief Rodondi has helped guide the organization through some of its most challenging and defining moments. Within months of his arrival, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, forcing fire and EMS agencies across the country to rethink nearly every aspect of their operations. “That was one of the greatest challenges of my career,” Rodondi said. “We had to adapt overnight—protecting our people while still answering every call for help. I couldn’t be prouder of how our members rose to that challenge.”

Under his leadership, the District completed the construction of its new headquarters station—built on budget and designed to serve the community for decades to come. He also prioritized modernization and community connection, leading efforts to update the District’s website, expand its social media presence, and launch programs like the Fire Expo, which brings families together around fire-prevention and safety education. “We’ve worked hard to show the community who we are and how we serve,” Rodondi said. “Those relationships matter, and I hope that sense of transparency and trust continues long after I leave.”

Chief Rodondi’s leadership has been defined not only by his focus on operational excellence but also by his investment in people. Early in his tenure, he championed a succession plan to develop leaders from within the District—an effort that now comes to fruition as several members move into new positions. “When I arrived, one of the Board’s goals was to build an organization that could promote from within,” he said. “Seeing that plan succeed—watching our people step confidently into new leadership roles—is one of the accomplishments I’m most proud of.”

As part of that transition, Division Chief John Tacy will assume the role of Fire Chief. A lifelong Lebanon resident and veteran of more than 30 years in the fire service, Tacy began his career with LFD as a volunteer, serving ten years before joining full-time. Over the years, he has held nearly every rank within the District—Volunteer, Firefighter, Paramedic, Engineer, Lieutenant, Battalion Chief, and Division Chief—and has led both the Training and Operations divisions. He helped guide the department through the pandemic and implemented new technology systems that improved training, EMS reporting, and fleet management.

Beyond the District, Tacy has earned respect across Oregon’s fire service community. He currently serves as Linn County ASA voting board member and chair (2021–2027), OSAA Legislative Co-Chair, OFCA/OSAA Liaison, and Director on the OFCA EMS Committee, where he has helped shape statewide EMS policy and workforce planning. He also holds Pro Board Fire Officer III and IV certifications from Texas A&M, Fire Officer I and II from the Metro Fire Officer Academy, and has completed extensive coursework at the National Fire Academy. A certified paramedic, Tacy has earned more than 250 college credits in fire science and emergency management.

“Chief Tacy has been at my side these past six years,” Rodondi said. “He’s smart, capable, and deeply committed to this community. The District could not be in better hands.”
 

Several other internal promotions are also part of this transition. Lieutenant Candace Hedding has been promoted to Fire Marshal, Lieutenant Jason Adamson has been appointed to Deputy Fire Marshal, Division Chief Mark Fitzwater will transition from Training to Operations Chief, Engineer Cody Manzi has been promoted to Lieutenant, and Heath Nance has been appointed to Firefighter. Rodondi said these advancements reflect the strength of the District’s culture and its future. “Our people have grown tremendously,” he said. “They’re talented, motivated, and ready to carry this organization forward.”

Rodondi expressed deep gratitude to the Lebanon community, the Board of Directors, and the members of the District who supported his vision. “Of all the organizations I’ve had the honor to serve, this one stands apart,” he said. “The people here are dedicated, compassionate, and consummate professionals beyond measure. They do so much with so little, and they serve every single day with pride and dignity. It’s been my privilege to lead them.”
 

In retirement, Rodondi plans to continue supporting the Oregon fire service through legislative and policy work while spending more time with his family. “My family has sacrificed a lot for my career,” he said. “Now it’s my turn to give that time back.”
 

The Lebanon Fire District invites the community to celebrate Chief Tacy’s badge-pinning ceremony on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., during the regular Board of Directors meeting at Station 31, 1050 W. Oak Street, Lebanon, OR 97355.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County and The Cowlitz Indian Tribe are working to restore habitat and provide nature-based recreational opportunities at the Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area in Battle Ground. The property, a former golf course, was purchased in 2022 by the county’s Legacy Lands program. Preliminary planning is underway to improve this public open space by restoring fish habitat in Salmon Creek and improving nature-based recreational opportunities like walking, birdwatching, fishing, picnicking and cultural and environmental education.

The Tribe has prepared preliminary designs for restoring salmon and steelhead habitat and removing fish passage barriers along the two miles of Salmon Creek running through the property. Salmon Creek provides critical spawning and rearing habitat for populations of fall chinook, coho, and chum salmon, and winter steelhead. The Tribe secured grant funding from the Salmon Recovery Funding Board to complete this preliminary design work. The county worked closely with the Tribe to incorporate restoration into the county’s long-term plan for developing Gordy Jolma Family Natural Area.

In April, Clark County and the Tribe presented draft concepts to the community and collected feedback. A preferred concept has been developed, incorporating community feedback, elements to restore the creek to a more natural state, and features to improve public access, trails, and wildlife viewing. Community members are invited to view and learn more at the upcoming open house on Oct. 29.

Community members can attend the open house in person at the Battle Ground Event Center, 912 E Main St. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for attendees to view displays and meet with staff. Coffee and cookies will be provided.

County staff will give a presentation at 6:30 with a Q&A (question-and-answer) session immediately following. The presentation and Q&A session will also be streamed online via Webex. Online attendees can ask questions during the Q&A via the chat feature. Information about participating via Webex can be found on the project webpage.

Presentation slides, visuals, and a recording of the presentation and Q&A session will be posted on the project webpage within five to ten business days after the open house. Materials are available in Spanish, Russian and Ukrainian, and additional languages upon request. To request interpretation, translation or accommodations to participate in the open house, please contact the project manager, Evelyn Ives, at evelyn.ives@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.5885.

Project information and updates are available at clark.wa.gov/public-works/gordy-jolma-family-natural-area.

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. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

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.

###

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the report of a financial fraud involving an 81 year old Lincoln County resident. During the month of September, the female victim reported being defrauded of $284,000 after being contacted by a scammer posing as a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agent. The suspect convinced the victim to convert her savings into gold and “surrender it for safekeeping." This tactic is part of a broader scam occurring nationwide with multiple incidents having already occurred in Oregon.

FBI agents traced the scam to a subject based in India who communicates directly with victims and uses couriers to collect the gold. Deputies learned law enforcement recently apprehended two of these couriers in the Kansas City area who were associated with the same network involved in the Lincoln County investigation.

On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, an arrest operation involving multiple partner agencies, was conducted at a meeting site in the Toledo area. At approximately 7:00 PM, the suspected courier arrived and conducted counter-surveillance before the exchange could occur. Authorities located the suspect vehicle and initiated a traffic stop. Both occupants were detained. The involved vehicle was identified as an Uber, and the driver, who was unaware of the scam, fully cooperated with investigators.

The passenger (courier), identified as 20 year old Tejveer Kumar from San Bernardino, California, was arrested and booked on charges of Attempted Aggravated Theft and Conspiracy. Kumar was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted in this investigation by the FBI and the Newport, Lincoln City and Toledo Police Departments.

This scam further highlights the importance of fraud prevention and education. The Sheriff’s Office recommends taking time to review scam prevention tips, including protection of personal information. Always verify with legitimate agencies before sharing sensitive information or transferring funds of any kind.

###

10/15/25 

Case  25CR56073

Portland, OR- A Portland area man already indicted on burglary charges has been indicted on additional burglary charges.

On October 7, 2025, a Multnomah County Grand Jury indicted Jeremiah Allen Morgan on 22 charges, including 14 counts of Burglary in the First Degree, one count of Criminal Mischief in the First Degree, five counts of Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree, one count of Aggravated Theft in the First Degree, and one count of Theft in the Second Degree. 

A probable cause affidavit filed in the case highlights that the Portland Police Bureau has investigated a large number of commercial burglaries that have occurred since July of 2024.

The affidavit states that Portland Police Officer Elliott Walker has reviewed hours of video surveillance and has identified a number of subjects who target restaurants, bars, lounges, and other commercial spaces in the Portland metropolitan area.  The affidavit states Officer Walker has identified Morgan as responsible for many of the burglaries.

Morgan was arraigned Tuesday, October 14, and pleaded not guilty. The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office requested bail be set at $200,000, which the court ordered.

In April of 2025, a Multnomah County Grand Jury indicted Morgan on 15 separate charges, including multiple counts of Burglary in the First Degree. Morgan pleaded not guilty to those charges as well.

Morgan is accused of breaking into several establishments, including: Victorico’s Mexican Food, The Daily Planet, TPK Brewing Co., 82nd Bar & Grill, Natural Grocers, The Cheerful Bullpen, Pine State Biscuits, Spirits Pub, The Ship Tavern, and Bullseye Pub.

Deputy District Attorney Alexander Garcia is prosecuting both cases for the state.

Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez said:

“I said we would aggressively prosecute burglary and we are. It's outrageous to me that business owners lose thousands of dollars to criminals who apparently have no fear of being caught and prosecuted. Those days are over.”

We are releasing surveillance video from some of these crimes in the hope that other victims will come forward. In several of these instances, the criminals use a unique pry bar type tool which can be seen in these videos. 

Here is a link to the video:

https://app.box.com/s/ztgjjzn8g0i0e8fgxye68i6s1wnzic7p

If there are businesses which have not reported burglaries- please contact our office at ox@mcda.us" style="text-decoration-line: none;">damialbox@mcda.us even if the burglary does not appear related to this group.

We are also asking anyone with information on these or other cases connected to this group to come forward and talk with Portland Police.

All defendants are considered not guilty until convicted in a court of law.

                                             ###MCDA###

Update: 

10/15/25 Oregon City, OR – Alon Washington, 20, of Gresham, OR was convicted of Unlawful use of a weapon on October 13th in relation to the previously reported incident.

On the date of the previous event, initial information revealed a person in a vehicle had discharged multiple rounds from a rifle in close proximity to residences located in the 3100 block of SE Lake Rd.  Investigating Officers located several expended rifle casings, fortunately no injuries or damage to property was ultimately found or reported.

Milwaukie Detectives canvassed the area collecting video and speaking with witnesses which led to the acquisition of key evidence and the identification of a person of interest. Further investigation led to multiple search warrants and the arrest of Mr. Washington. Milwaukie Police would like to thank the Clackamas County District Attorney's office for their assistance on this case.

Milwaukie, OR - On 7/3/25 at approximately 12:55 AM, Milwaukie Police were called to the 3100 block of SE Lake Rd. on report of 4-5 ”loud booms” believed to sound like gunshots.  Officers arrived in the area shortly after and located several firearm ammunition casings in the street. No victims or damaged property was located at the time of the event.

The investigation is ongoing, anyone with information about this event is asked to email Milwaukie Police entleyg@milwaukieoregon.gov" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134); background: transparent;">bentleyg@milwaukieoregon.gov(link sends e-mail) or call the tip line at 503-786-7425, MiPD case #25-3929. There is no further information at this time. 

Officers respond to "loud booms" in the Lake Road neighborhood, locate several ammunition casings. | City of Milwaukie Oregon Official Website

Yamhill County, Ore (Oct. 15, 2025)- On Monday, October 13, 2025, at 5:11 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Highway 240, near milepost 10, in Yamhill County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Toyota Rav4, operated by Holly Mclain (47) of Cornelius, struck a pedestrian, Larry Joseph Mervin Jacobs (66) of Newberg, who was in the roadway.

The pedestrian (Jacobs) was declared deceased at the scene.

The Toyota operator (Mclain) was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office, Newberg Dundee 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.

On Wednesday, October 15^th, 2025 at approximately 7:32 a.m., Forest Grove Police Department Officers responded to a shooting at a residence near the intersection of 19^th Avenue and Elm Street.  A male called 911 and reported he had been shot.

Officers arrived at the location and located an adult male with a gunshot wound.  The male was transported to the hospital and remains in critical condition.  The identity of the victim is not being released. 

Everyone involved in the incident is accounted for and cooperating with investigators.  This was an isolated incident and there is no danger to the public. 

This is an ongoing investigation and no additional information will be released at this time.

The Forest Grove Police Department was assisted on this incident by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, American Medical Response and Forest Grove Fire and Rescue.

Oct. 15, 2025   

Media contact: Timothy Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov 

OHA, ODE partner to boost schools’ capacity to reverse overdoses

Nearly 700 schools received more than 14,000 naloxone doses  

PORTLAND, Ore.— Oregon’s schools are better equipped to prevent and respond to opioid overdoses following a collaborative effort last year to offer free overdose reversal kits to middle and high schools, colleges and universities across the state, as well as expanded substance use prevention resources, state officials say. 

The collaboration between Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) resulted in 692 schools receiving free opioid overdose reversal kits, totaling more than 14,000 additional doses. 

The program marked an expansion of Save Lives Oregon www.savelivesoregon.org, and was possible because of one-time funding through the Oregon’s Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment and Recovery Board.  

Every school in Oregon is now eligible to receive the kits. Previously, the program was limited to junior high schools and above.   

In addition, new resources are available on ODE’s Substance Use Prevention Education website to support educators, students and school communities in addressing youth substance use and opioid overdoses.  

The tools are culturally responsive and aligned to substance use prevention education standards and build on the resources released last year, including the updated Fentanyl Toolkit for Schools. 

Naloxone is a proven opioid overdose reversal medication that can restore breathing while waiting for emergency medical services to arrive. Quick access to naloxone is necessary for school staff to respond quickly to an opioid overdose on or near a school campus.  

Learn how to give naloxone here.  

Each participating school received three metal boxes for easy access to naloxone, each containing 24 doses and face shields. 

The kits reached: 

• 137 public school districts, or about 70% of Oregon districts.
• 31 private schools and 47 charter schools.
• 10 universities and 5 community colleges.

More than 8 in 10 participating schools placed the kits prominently on walls in publicly accessible areas.  

Schools used the kits to respond to seven separate overdose events involving high school, middle school and community members, according to a survey of participating schools. 

Both agencies are sharing the success of their partnership to prevent substance use and overdose deaths among youth and young adults as the U.S. recognizes October as National Substance Use & Misuse Prevention Month highlighting its impact on individual and community well-being.  

Overall, youth substance use has been declining recently.  

In Oregon, youth and adult overdoses decreased from 2023 to 2024. Youth – defined as people between ages 10-19 – account for 1% of all overdose deaths in Oregon. 

However, every life lost to overdose is a tragedy, especially to the families and communities left behind. Even one preventable death is too many.  

Having naloxone available and equipping people with the skills to use it is one way to save more lives. Half of youth who died from an overdose had at least one other person present.  However, only 24% of those youth were given naloxone.  

Overall, the number of unintentional overdose deaths related to fentanyl nearly quadrupled between 2020 and 2022. In 2023, 1,833 Oregonians died of an unintentional drug overdose.  

The school program was part of a larger statewide effort to increase supplies of naloxone throughout the state and to equip communities to prevent substance use and reduce overdoses.  

Learn more about opioid overdose and prevention resources. 

On October 14, Ridgefield School District officials recognized the October 2025 Employees and Students of the Month at the regular Board of Directors meeting. Congratulations to all of this month’s honorees!

Students of the Month

Landon Apol, 12th Grade at Ridgefield High School

Ridgefield High School is proud to recognize Landon Apol as the October Student of the Month. Landon, a senior, is known throughout the school for his positivity, kindness, and ability to lift others up. When he’s not outdoors mountain biking, hiking or camping, Landon values family dinners every night and enjoys being part of Ridgefield’s small-town community. His favorite thing about RHS is the way teachers have built a welcoming and supportive environment while maintaining a close-knit feel. Two teachers who have especially influenced him are Mrs. Gardner, who pushes him to grow and step out of his comfort zone, and Mrs. Shipp, who he describes as approachable and easy to connect with. After graduation, Landon plans to attend Idaho State University to pursue a career in radiology. Landon’s teachers agree that he is an outstanding student and person. They describe him as “the ultimate hype guy,” who brings encouragement and positivity to everyone around him. He regularly checks in on peers and helps build a strong classroom community. Teachers say his attitude is contagious and that he is trustworthy, kind, and consistently respectful. Landon also makes a difference outside the classroom as a student-athlete on both the cross country and basketball teams, where his hard work and leadership shine. One teacher summarized it best: “Landon is a tremendous young man who embodies everything we look for in a Spudder. His presence brightens every setting he’s in and makes RHS a great place to be.” 

Aaron Castillo, 8th Grade at View Ridge Middle School

Teachers and classmates agree that Aaron is kind, diligent, and always interested in learning about others. He is a true friend to his classmates, shows great leadership skills, always sets a positive example for those around him, and has a strong love for learning.. Ms. Muir shares that “Aaron brings so much joy to his learning. He always has a well-timed sense of humor and prides himself on being kind to everyone. When challenged academically, Aaron has a ready-to-go attitude and strives to do his best in every class. Aaron’s value in our class is priceless. Thank you for being a great example to everyone, Aaron!” and Mr. Tena adds, “Aaron Castillo is a very kind student! He enjoys learning about history and math. Aaron is very diligent in completing his assignments and participating in class. He loves greeting others, especially those new to the school. Aaron brings a lot of joy to the classroom!”

Emmett Esser, 8th Grade at Wisdom Ridge Academy

Emmet’s teacher Ms. Robblee says, "A dedicated member of the Wisdom Ridge community for the past four years, Emmett consistently sets the bar high with his academic excellence, maintaining top grades and staying on top of his assignments with impressive focus and responsibility.” Emmett’s strengths extend beyond the classroom. He actively participates in social activities and field trips, bringing a positive attitude and a spirit of curiosity wherever he goes. His enthusiasm for learning shines especially bright in his eDynamic Business class, where he’s already building the foundation for his future goal: becoming a hotel owner. His drive, reliability, and vision make him a standout student and a role model to his peers. Congratulations, Emmett — your hard work and ambition are truly inspiring!

Daniella Kulakevich, 6th Grade at Sunset Ridge Intermediate School

Daniella is an outstanding role model at school. She is hardworking and diligent, always giving her best effort. Her intrinsic motivation drives her to succeed without reminders, and she consistently sets high standards for herself. She is respectful and responsible, treating others with kindness while owning her learning and actions. Her resilience shows as she overcomes challenges with a positive attitude and determination. Along with her strong work ethic, she helps classmates, listens well, and makes positive contributions to the classroom. Her character and dedication make her truly deserving of Student of the Month.

Hukam Kang, 1st Grade at Union Ridge Elementary School

Hukum Kang is an outstanding role model who shows kindness, empathy, and responsibility daily. He is always willing to lend a hand and steps up whenever something needs to be done. Whether it is helping a classmate who is struggling, organizing materials so the day runs smoothly, or making sure everyone feels included during group activities, Hukum demonstrates a level of maturity and compassion far beyond his years. His actions reflect not only his strong character but also his desire to make our classroom a positive and welcoming place for all. In addition to his caring heart, Hukum consistently completes his work with thoughtfulness, effort, and responsibility. He takes pride in doing his best and shows determination in every task, no matter how big or small. He goes above and beyond to meet expectations and, just as importantly, encourages others to rise to their potential as well. His positive energy motivates his classmates to stay focused and engaged, and he sets an example of what it looks like to approach learning with dedication and integrity. Our school community is brighter, stronger, and more successful because of Hukum’s presence. His kindness helps others feel valued, his responsibility ensures things run smoothly, and his leadership reminds us all of the power of doing the right thing. 

Wyatt Chase, 3rd Grade at South Ridge Elementary School

Wyatt was waiting in line for his turn at tetherball. He noticed a classmate standing alone at another tetherball court. Wyatt left his line and went to join the other student and played very gently and respectfully with him so that he wouldn't have to be alone. This is one of the many ways that Wyatt demonstrates kindness, and the reason he was chosen as our Student of the Month. 

Rodrigo Dove, Pre-K at the Early Learning Center

Rodrigo’s teachers in Room 3 (Ms. Angel, Ms. Shelby, Ms. Kelly, and Ms. Meredith) have shared that he is such a wonderful friend to everyone in the class and truly represents our September character trait of Kindness. Rodrigo has a gentle heart and always notices when someone needs a little extra help or care. When his friends feel sad or stuck, Rodrigo is right there with a smile, a kind word, or a helping hand. In addition to demonstrating kindness and empathy, Rodrigo’s teachers also believe that he is a great problem solver. He listens carefully, shares his ideas, and helps friends figure things out in a kind and patient way. Rodrigo shows our school every day what it means to be a kind and thoughtful friend. Rodrigo is such a special part of our ELC family, and we are so lucky to have him here!

Employees of the Month

Alma Martinez, District Registrar
Our school district has been fortunate to have the dedicated service of a truly exceptional registrar, in Alma Martinez. Alma has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, often putting in countless hours beyond her regular schedule to ensure that every student is not only successfully enrolled in our schools but also accurately placed in the various programs. Her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to her role have been instrumental in ensuring students start their education off in the district. Without her dedication, the complex process of student registration and tracking would be far more challenging. She is one of the many unsung heroes who make sure every student has a smooth start and a clear path to success within our district. We are profoundly grateful for her invaluable contributions.

Stephanie Bloom, Band Teacher at Sunset/View Ridge

Stephanie Bloom is more than deserving of this recognition for her outstanding dedication and impact as a band director. For over 25 years, she has been a cornerstone of the Ridgefield School District, teaching at all levels and consistently demonstrating excellence, passion, and care in her work. 

Mrs. Bloom has a unique gift for classroom management and direction, creating a learning environment where her students feel both challenged and supported. Her students are excited to come to class each day, not only because of their love for music, but also because of the energy, structure, and encouragement she provides. She inspires her students to participate fully, grow as musicians, and, most importantly, enjoy the process of making music together.

Beyond her regular classes, Mrs. Bloom goes above and beyond by running a jazz band early in the mornings, sacrificing personal time to give students additional opportunities to learn and perform. Her efforts have resulted in countless students discovering a deeper appreciation for music and building skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Stephanie is known for her kindness and humility, never asking for recognition but always deserving of it. She embodies what it means to be a dedicated educator, leading with compassion, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to student success. Our district simply would not be the same without her presence and influence.

Oct. 15, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Oswego Lake

Continue to keep pets away as levels detected remain above educational guideline values for animals

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Oswego Lake in Clackamas County.

OHA issued the advisory Sept. 30.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Oswego Lake are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from these areas.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (harmful algae) blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

The Portland Police Bureau, in conjunction with Crime Stoppers of Oregon is asking for the public's help in solving the homicide of Krystal Pendergraph.
 

On Saturday, October 11, 2025, at approximately 5:09 p.m., Central Precinct officers responded to Northwest Kearney Street between Northwest 22nd Avenue and Northwest 23rd Avenue on a welfare check.   Officers arrived on scene and determined that 39-year-old Krystal Pendergraph had been shot and killed in a parked vehicle.   

Anyone with information is urged to submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of Oregon.

Crime Stoppers of Oregon offers cash rewards of up to $2,500 for information reported to Crime Stoppers of Oregon that leads to an arrest in any unsolved felony crime, but tipsters must remain anonymous.

Secure and anonymous tips can be left at www.crimestoppersoforegon.com or you can visit the app store and download P3 tips for smartphones or tablets.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
October 15, 2025

CONTACT INFORMATION:
umenauer@employ.oregon.gov">Gail Krumenauer,, State Employment Economist (971) 301-3771
Video and Audio available at 10 a.m. PT
David Cooke,, Economist (971) 375-5288

Federal Government Shutdown Pauses Employment Reports

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) suspended the monthly employment and unemployment reports for the nation, states, and metropolitan areas as of Oct. 1, 2025. Oregon’s monthly jobs and unemployment rate for September are unavailable at this time.

Quarterly Employment and Wages

In the meantime, the Oregon Employment Department released the latest Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW). The most current QCEW data provides employment trends and wages by industry through June 2025. The monthly employment numbers originally scheduled for release today would have included information for September 2025.

The newest QCEW data shows that covered employment totaled 2,004,700 in the second quarter of 2025, a decline of 3,800 jobs (-0.2%) from the second quarter of 2024. The private sector lost 11,100 jobs over the year (-0.6%). The manufacturing sector lost nearly 7,400 jobs between the second quarters of 2024 and 2025 (-3.9%). Meanwhile, private health care and social assistance grew by 14,100 jobs (+4.7%) over the year.

Government gained 7,300 jobs (+2.4%) over the year. Three out of four government jobs added were in local government. The latest QCEW figures show federal government dropped 400 jobs compared with second quarter 2024.

Federal Government Jobs in Oregon

Oregon had an average of 29,000 federal government jobs covered by unemployment benefits during the first half of 2025. That accounted for about 1.5% of all jobs in the state. The federal government share of all jobs was much higher in some rural counties. The top 10 counties by share of all jobs in federal government were rural areas. More than 15% of all jobs in Sherman County were in federal government. The next-largest shares were in Grant (9%), Harney (8%), and Lake (8%) counties.

Federal government jobs also tend to pay relatively high wages. Looking at annual average wages, jobs on federal government payrolls in Oregon paid nearly $98,500 in 2024. That was 38% higher than the average annual wage for all jobs in Oregon. Read more about federal government jobs in Oregon.

Contacts and Next Press Releases

If you have questions about the Oregon economy, contact a local Oregon Employment Department economist. Our Research staff work and live across the state. We’re still at work providing quality information so employers and job seekers can make informed decisions.

The Oregon Employment Department plans to highlight the latest available local jobs news on Tuesday, Oct. 21. We will publish the latest Oregon Job Vacancy Survey report on Oct. 23, and the next update on statewide trends on Wednesday, Nov. 19. We will update our schedule of future releases as federal services return.

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Oct. 15, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Public Health Advisory Board’s Accountability Metrics Subcommittee meets Oct. 21

What: The Public Health Advisory Board’s Accountability Metrics Subcommittee will hold a meeting.

Agenda: Review and refine metrics selection criteria, update on process for gathering prevention and health promotion metrics for consideration and discuss equity approach for metrics development.

When: Tues., Oct. 21, 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The meeting is open to the public. A public comment period will be held at the end of the meeting. Public comments may also be sent in writing to lichealth.policy@odhsoha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">publichealth.policy@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

Where: Via Zoom

Background: Oregon’s Public Health Advisory Board provides guidance for Oregon’s governmental public health system and oversees the implementation of public health modernization and Oregon’s State Health Improvement Plan. The Accountability Metrics Subcommittee develops recommendations about public health quality measures for the board's consideration.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters.
• Written materials in other languages.
•  
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact Sara Beaudrault: at 971-645-5766, 711 TTY, or lichealth.policy@odhsoha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">publichealth.policy@odhsoha.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Oct. 15, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Conference of Local Health Officials Systems and Innovation Committee meets Oct. 22 via Zoom

What: The monthly public meeting of the Conference of Local Health Officials (CLHO) Systems and Innovation Committee

Agenda: Program Element 51 public health modernization progress reporting platform; Analysis of local public health modernization plans 

Agenda is subject to change and is posted with meeting materials on the CLHO website at http://www.oregonclho.org/ prior to meeting.

There is no public comment period during this meeting.

When: Wed., Oct. 22, 1 to 2:30 p.m. 

Where: Virtual meeting only. All meeting participants, including the public, may join remotely via Zoom.

• Join ZoomGov Meeting
  • Meeting ID: 161 249 2555
  • Passcode: 160558
• Or dial by your location
  • +1 669 254 5252 US (San Jose)
  • +1 646 828 7666 US (New York)
  • Meeting ID: 161 249 2555

Background: The Conference of Local Health Officials provides recommendations to Oregon Health Authority on the foundational capabilities and programs and any other public health program or activity under ORS 431.340.

Program contact: Liz Hunt, 503-756-5678, liz.a.hunt@oha.oregon.gov

For people who speak or use a language other than English, people with disabilities or people who need additional support, we can provide free help.  Some examples are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages or transcript
• Braille
• Real-time captioning (CART)
• Large print
• Virtual platform change
• Audio and other formats

This meeting will be virtual only.  This meeting will screen share and use Word documents, PDFs, and PowerPoint presentations.

Please contact Liz Hunt at 503-756-5678 (voice or text) or liz.a.hunt@oha.oregon.gov by Friday, October 17 to request an accommodation. We will make every effort to provide services to requests after June 23.  We accept all relay calls. If you need an accommodation, please contact us right away even if you are only considering attending. The earlier you make a request the more likely we can meet the need.

Oct. 15, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Emergency Medical Services for Children Advisory Committee meets Nov. 6

What: The Emergency Medical Services for Children Advisory Committee is holding its quarterly public meeting. A public comment period is offered at the end of the meeting.

Agenda: EMSC Program Priorities Landscape; EMSC Program - 2026 National Pediatric Readiness Project Assessment; Health Emergency Ready Oregon (HERO) Kids Registry; Pediatric Research; NEW! Pediatric EMS Data Dashboard, Update: Medications Administered Without Documented Weight, EMS Program.

When: Thurs., Nov. 6, 2025, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Virtual - Zoom

Join the meeting from your computer, tablet, or smartphone

Meeting ID: 160 130 0580

Passcode: 137208

One tap mobile: +16692545252,,1601300580# US

Background: The Emergency Medical Services for Children Advisory Committee provides recommendations to the Oregon Emergency Medical Services for Children Program. For more information, see the Emergency Medical Services for Children Program website at www.oregonemsc.org.

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Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services.  OHA provides free help.  Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Rachel Ford at 971-673-0564, 711 TTY or achel.l.ford@state.or.us" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">rachel.l.ford@oha.oregon.gov at least 48 hours before the meeting.

PHOTO/MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:
Available Monday and Tuesday (Oct. 20 and 21) by request between 12:15 and 2:00 pm

Students in Kelso High School’s advanced welding classes are putting their skills to work on a real-world project that strengthens community safety and builds valuable career experience.

In partnership with the Kelso Police Department (KPD), students are fabricating and installing pit bars on two decommissioned police vehicles to help officers train for Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuvers—a controlled method law enforcement uses to safely end vehicle pursuits.

To prepare for these critical trainings, KPD needed durable, custom-built bumpers that could withstand repeated impact without damaging the vehicles. Instead of outsourcing the work, they turned to Kelso High’s skilled student welders.

“This is a great example of community outreach and partnership between the Kelso Police Department and Kelso School District,” said Kelso High School Security Resource Officer Jeff Brown.

Under the guidance of welding instructor Steve Mahitka, students began modifying the first vehicle this fall and expect to finish it by late November. Work on the second car will begin during the second trimester.

Excited about the project, Mahitka said, “Our students are learning hands-on skills while directly supporting public safety.”

For student welder Dale Pippin, the project represents something much more than classroom practice.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to work on something that will be put to good use—not just for a grade,” Pippen said.

By combining classroom learning with authentic community projects, Kelso High’s welding program gives students a powerful sense of purpose and preparation for future careers.

Why It Matters:

• Students apply career-connected learning in a real-world public safety project.
• The partnership strengthens community collaboration between the district and local law enforcement.
• KPD gains custom-built training equipment while students gain technical experience that aligns with workforce needs.

Kelso School District has a long-standing tradition of excellence in education and a goal of 100% (bit.ly/ksd-100) of students graduating high school and having post-secondary plans for college, career, trades, or military. The CTE program offers approximately 80 on-site courses and 7 off-campus courses in partnership with industry leaders. Students can earn dual credit in 21 CTE courses. In the area of welding, the district offers the opportunity to earn five welding certifications. Kelso School District’s mission is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world.

Vancouver, Wash. – As water quality in our lakes, rivers and streams becomes an increasingly visible issue, the community is continuing to come together to collaborate on solutions to protect clean water. To this end, the Clark County Clean Water Commission is hosting the Nonpoint Source Pollution Symposium from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 28.

Nonpoint source pollution significantly contributes to poor water quality in many watersheds in Clark County. Unlike point source pollution from a single location, nonpoint source pollution originates from many different sources, such as agricultural runoff, reduction in tree canopy, erosion, and faulty septic systems. Stormwater that runs off of streets, parking lots, and buildings when it rains is the number one way that nonpoint source pollution enters local waterways. The symposium will include multiple presentations to foster a shared understanding of water quality challenges and to foster discussion of actions needed to reduce this type of pollution.

“Addressing the impacts of stormwater runoff is the last frontier to protect and restore our urban streams,” said Clark County Council Chair Sue Marshall.

Speakers include representatives from:

• City of Vancouver
• Clark Conservation District
• Clark County Community Planning
• Clark County Public Health
• Clark County Public Works
• Clark Regional Wastewater District
• Cowlitz Indian Tribe
• Friends of Trees
• Kailash Ecovillage
• King County
• Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership
• Lower Columbia Fish Recovery Board
• Washington State Conservation Commission
• Washington State Department of Ecology
• Washington State University

“Improving water quality in Clark County takes all of us working together,” said Clark Conservation District’s Executive Director, Zorah Oppenheimer. “With resources and support, residents can make meaningful progress in reducing nonpoint source pollution through actions such as planting streamside areas, maintaining their septic systems, and managing their livestock. Even picking up dog poop at home and on walks can improve the health of our streams, particularly in high-traffic recreational areas such as Lacamas and Vancouver Lakes.”

Residents interested in learning about resources for implementing water quality solutions at home are encouraged to attend the symposium. “When people think of the Pacific Northwest, they think of stunning nature and abundant waters, but it takes intention and deep commitment for us to keep those waters clean for future generations,” said Clean Water Commissioner Tracy Ceravolo.

Those interested in attending in person must register by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 21, via web form posted on the Clean Water Commission webpage. The event will also be streamed live via Webex. Registration is not required to view the livestream. Information and instructions on viewing the livestream will be posted on the Clean Water Commission webpage prior to the event.

Meeting interpretation, additional translation and other accommodations can be requested by contacting the Clean Water division at cleanwater@clark.wa.gov or 564.397.4345. 

The Clean Water Commission is a nine-member volunteer advisory board comprised of Clark County residents. The commission reports to the Clark County Council and county manager on program opportunities and priorities for the Clean Water division of Public Works. Previous symposiums hosted by the commission focused on Lacamas and Vancouver lakes. Past symposium presentations are available on the Clean Water Commission webpage.

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. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

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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Oct. 15, 2025

Media Contact: Amy Coven, amy.coven@oha.oregon.gov, (503) 943-0164

Oregon unveils upgraded health coverage shopping tool ahead of open enrollment

Open enrollment for 2026 health coverage begins Nov. 1 – updated tools make it easier than ever to compare plans

SALEM, Ore. -- Just in time for open enrollment, the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace has rolled out an upgraded Window Shopping tool at OregonHealthCare.gov. Starting Oct. 15, people in Oregon can use the tool to easily compare 2026 health plans, check if their doctors and prescriptions are covered and see how much financial help they may qualify for.

Open enrollment – Nov. 1, 2025 to Jan. 15, 2026 – is the time when individuals who don’t get insurance through their job, Medicare, or the Oregon Health Plan (OHP), can sign up for a Marketplace plan. For many, it is the best chance each year to secure affordable, comprehensive coverage, and the upgraded Window Shopping tool makes it easier than ever to explore options.

“Life doesn’t always go as planned, but having health insurance means you and your family can weather the unexpected,” said Chiqui Flowers, director of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. “With rising health care costs and the uncertainty of life, open enrollment is the time to make sure you’re protected for the upcoming year. Our upgraded tools and local help make the process straightforward.”

The Window Shopping tool is available in English and Spanish and provides personalized estimates based on income, age, and location to help people in Oregon find coverage that fits their life and budget. Key updates and enhancements to the Window Shopping tool at OregonHealthCare.gov for 2026 include:

• Enhanced plan comparisons so you can see real costs before you buy.
• Expanded provider and prescription lookup features, making it easier to confirm your care team and medications are covered.
• Updated savings estimates that reflect financial help available to most people in Oregon.
• Stronger benefit transparency, including details about coverage for services like gender-affirming care, preventive services, naturopathy, and mental health support.

Why coverage matters

Nearly all people in Oregon— 97% — now have health coverage. All marketplace plans include essential health benefits such as prescriptions, mental health care, maternity and pediatric services, free preventive care, and more. Most services are covered before you meet your deductible. The only way to be sure your doctor or prescription is covered is to check — and the Window Shopping tool makes that simple.

At the end of this year, some of the extra savings that were temporarily available to lower monthly premiums are currently expected to end. That means the amount of financial help you get may look a little different than it has in the past. Affordable coverage is still available, and many people will continue to qualify for premium tax credits to bring costs down. To see what your costs might look like for 2026, you can use the updated Window Shopping tool at OregonHealthCare.gov to preview plans and savings before open enrollment begins. It’s a good idea to explore your options early, so you’re ready to choose the plan that fits your health needs and your budget.

Get help at no cost

Free local help is available to guide people in Oregon through enrollment. Licensed insurance agents and certified community partners can walk you through your options and answer questions, in-person or virtually. Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp to connect with an expert.

Open enrollment runs Nov. 1, 2025 through Jan. 15, 2026. To start exploring your options, visit OregonHealthCare.gov today.

Oregon presenta una herramienta mejorada para comparar planes de salud antes del inicio del periodo de inscripción abierta

La inscripción abierta para la cobertura de salud de 2026 comienza el 1 de noviembre: las herramientas actualizadas facilitan más que nunca la comparación de planes

SALEM, Ore. -- Justo a tiempo para la inscripción abierta, el Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregon ha lanzado una herramienta mejorada de comparación de planes en CuidadoDeSalud.Oregon.gov. A partir del 15 de octubre, los habitantes de Oregon podrán utilizar esta herramienta para comparar fácilmente los planes de salud de 2026, verificar si sus médicos y recetas están cubiertos y ver cuánta ayuda financiera pueden recibir.

La inscripción abierta, del 1 de noviembre de 2025 al 15 de enero de 2026, es el momento en que las personas que no obtienen seguro a través de su trabajo, Medicare o el Plan de Salud de Oregon (OHP) pueden inscribirse en un plan del Mercado. Para muchos, es la mejor oportunidad del año para conseguir una cobertura asequible y completa, y la herramienta mejorada de comparación de planes hace que sea más fácil que nunca explorar las opciones.

“La vida no siempre sale según lo planeado, pero tener un seguro médico significa que tú y tu familia pueden enfrentarse a lo inesperado,” dijo Chiqui Flowers, directora del Mercado de Seguros Médicos de Oregon. "Con el aumento de los costos de la atención médica y la incertidumbre de la vida, la inscripción abierta es el momento de asegurarse de estar protegido para el próximo año. Nuestras herramientas mejoradas y la ayuda local hacen que el proceso sea sencillo".

La herramienta de comparación de planes está disponible en inglés y español y ofrece estimaciones personalizadas basadas en los ingresos, la edad y la ubicación para ayudar a los habitantes de Oregon a encontrar la cobertura que mejor se adapte a su vida y presupuesto. Las principales actualizaciones y mejoras de la herramienta de comparación de planes en CuidadoDeSalud.Oregon.gov para 2026 incluyen:

• Comparaciones de planes mejoradas para que puedas ver los costos reales antes de comprar.
• Funciones ampliadas de búsqueda de proveedores y recetas, lo que facilita verificar que tu equipo de atención médica y tus medicamentos estén cubiertos.
• Estimaciones actualizadas de ahorro que reflejan la ayuda financiera disponible para la mayoría de las personas en Oregon.
• Mayor transparencia de los beneficios, incluidos detalles sobre la cobertura de servicios como atención de afirmación de género, servicios preventivos, naturopatía y el apoyo a la salud mental.

Por qué es importante la cobertura

Casi todas las personas en Oregon, el 97%, ahora tienen cobertura de salud. Todos los planes del mercado incluyen beneficios esenciales de salud como recetas, atención de salud mental, servicios de maternidad y pediatría, atención preventiva gratuita y más. La mayoría de los servicios están cubiertos antes de alcanzar tu deducible. La única forma de asegurarte de que tu médico o receta estén cubiertos es verificarlo, y la herramienta de comparación de planes lo hace sencillo.

A finales de este año, se espera que finalicen algunos de los ahorros adicionales que estaban disponibles temporalmente para reducir las primas mensuales. Eso significa que la cantidad de ayuda financiera que recibas puede ser un poco diferente a la que has recibido en el pasado. Todavía hay cobertura asequible disponible y muchas personas continuarán calificando para créditos fiscales para las primas para reducir los costos. Para ver cuáles podrían ser tus costos para 2026, puedes utilizar la herramienta actualizada de comparación de planes en CuidadoDeSalud.Oregon.gov para obtener una vista previa de los planes y ahorros antes de que comience la inscripción abierta. Es una buena idea explorar tus opciones con tiempo, para que estés listo para elegir el plan que se adapte a tus necesidades de salud y a tu presupuesto.

Obtén ayuda sin costo

Hay ayuda local gratuita disponible para guiar a las personas en Oregon a través del proceso de inscripción. Los agentes de seguros con licencia y los socios comunitarios certificados pueden guiarte a través de tus opciones y responder preguntas, ya sea en persona o virtualmente. Visita CuidadoDeSalud.Oregon.gov para conectarte con un experto.

La inscripción abierta se extiende desde el 1 de noviembre de 2025 hasta el 15 de enero de 2026. Para comenzar a explorar tus opciones, visita CuidadoDeSalud.Oregon.gov hoy mismo.

Free and confidential drive-thru collection events set for Saturday, Oct. 25
 

Community members in Clark and Klickitat counties are encouraged to safely dispose of unused or expired medications during the upcoming Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at multiple drive-thru locations.
 

The free events are organized in partnership with local prevention coalitions, law enforcement agencies, and health organizations to lower the risks of substance misuse, accidental poisoning, and environmental contamination.
 

“With 75 percent of opioid misuse linked to medications not prescribed to the user, safe disposal is a critical prevention strategy,” said Kelley Groen-Sieckmann, ESD 112 Community Prevention Project Coordinator. “These events give families a simple, effective way to protect their loved ones and prevent misuse.”
 

Confirmed Site Locations:
 

Clark County:

• Battle Ground Police Department – 507 SW 1st St., Battle Ground
• La Center Police Department – 105 W 5th St., La Center
• Ridgefield Police Department – 101 Mill St., Ridgefield
• Pendleton Woolen Mills – 2 Pendleton Way, Washougal

Klickitat County:

• Klickitat County Courthouse – 205 S. Columbus St., Goldendale

What to Bring:

• Prescription and over-the-counter medications (pills, liquids, inhalers)
• Medications in or out of original containers
• Vape pens and e-cigarettes (with batteries removed)

Please note: No locations will be accepting sharps or syringes at this event.
 

Proper disposal of medication helps:

• Prevent prescription drug misuse and opioid addiction
• Reduce accidental poisonings and overdoses
• Protect pets, children, and vulnerable community members
• Keep pharmaceuticals out of landfills and waterways

Those unable to attend the October 25 event can visit www.medtakebackwashington.org to find year-round disposal sites or request free mail-back envelopes. Residents can also learn how to secure their medications by visiting www.LocksSaveLives.org.
 

Events are made possible through funding from Clark County Opioid Abatement Council and Washington State Health Care Authority Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery.

About Prevent Coalition:
Prevent is a community coalition dedicated to reducing youth substance use and building a safe and healthy environment for all. Supported by ESD 112, Prevent works through collaboration, education, and advocacy to empower youth and families across Southwest Washington. Learn more at www.preventcoalition.org.

Date: TUES, Nov 4th, 2025

Time: 7 pm

Location: Kiggins Theatre Vancouver, Wa

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: scienceontaporwa.org/events/kiggins_nov_4_big_bang/

Live science show! 
How did the Universe begin? ???
How we discovered the Big Bang and the evidence for our NEW origin story: Cosmic Inflation. Also explore current and (planned) future missions that could reveal even more about the biggest questions about where we all came from.

More details:

How did the Universe begin, and how did it get to be the way it is today?

Learn how we discovered the Big Bang and the evidence for our NEW origin story: Cosmic Inflation. We’ll step back in time as far as we can go: before the Big Bang, and say as much as we can say about our ultimate cosmic origins while still remaining tethered to reality. We’ll also look at the current and (planned) future missions that could reveal even more about the biggest questions about where we all came from.

Take a tour of the Universe as we step forward in time: from that early inflationary period to the hot, dense, expanding-and-cooling state that the Big Bang demanded all those years ago, and then up to the present day. By the end, you’ll still know the Big Bang, but you won’t call it “the beginning” anymore! 

We welcome back Ethan Siegel, the PNW’s favorite astrophysicist and an award-winning science communicator for Big Think, Medium, Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, Scientific American and more. He is the author of six books, the latest — the Grand Cosmic Story, published by National Geographic.

Science on Tap is a science lecture series where you can sit back, drink a pint, and enjoy learning. Listen to experts talk about the science in your neighborhood and around the world. You don't have to be a science geek to have fun--all you need is a thirst for knowledge! For more information on this event or about Science on Tap, visit Science on Tap OR WA.

Forest Grove Police Request Public’s Assistance Locating Missing Man

October 14, 2025

On Tuesday, October 14^th, 2025 at approximately 5:37 p.m., Forest Grove Police Department Officers responded to a report of a missing person near the intersection of Valley Crest Way and Circle Crest Drive.  Family members reported 78-year-old Thomas Weightman left their nearby residence on foot at approximately 10 a.m. but did not return home.  Officers were able to initially make brief contact with Thomas by cellphone.  Thomas said he fell and was unsure of his location.  Officers attempted to locate Thomas utilizing his cellphone information but were unsuccessful.

Thomas is described as 5’9’’, 165 lbs. with gray hair, gray beard and glasses.  Thomas was last seen wearing black shoes, blue jeans, red flannel bottom-up shirt and a dark colored baseball hat.  Thomas has no known medical issues. 

Officers searched the area with the assistance of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team, multiple drones and multiple K-9 teams.  The search will continue through the night.

Anyone who sees Thomas is asked to call 911.

The Forest Grove Police Department was assisted in the search by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Hillsboro Police Department, Oregon State Police, American Medical Response, Forest Grove Fire and Rescue and Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Hillsboro resident made her first appearance in federal court today after assaulting a federal officer near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Samuel A. Westcott, 19, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony offense of assaulting a federal officer.

According to court documents, on the evening of October 12, 2025, federal officers detained Westcott after she physically resisted officers’ attempts to clear a path for vehicles exiting the ICE facility. Westcott physically engaged with the officers trying to detain her and kicked a federal officer several times as she was being detained. Officers then arrested her for assaulting a federal officer.

“We will not tolerate violence against federal law enforcement officers. Any assault on those who serve and protect our communities is an assault on the rule of law,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Since June 13, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office has charged 33 defendants with federal crimes for offenses committed at the ICE building, including assaulting federal officers, failure to comply, and depredation of government property.

Westcott made her first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. She was released on conditions pending further court proceedings.

Felony assault of a federal officer is punishable by up to eight years in federal prison. 

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

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SALEM, OR — Marion County tax statements will be mailed October 14^th and should arrive in property owner mailboxes shortly thereafter. Tom Rohlfing, Marion County Assessor, certified the 2025-26 Property Tax Roll on October 02, 2025.

As of the January 1, 2025, valuation date, the aggregate Real Market Value (RMV) of all property county-wide increased by 5.58% from last year, to $76.68 billion. Real Market Value is the estimated amount in cash that could reasonably be expected to be paid for a property by an informed buyer to an informed seller.

Growth has continued to slow overall; however, new subdivisions, construction, remodels, and localized increases in residential values within cities and towns contributed to an overall rise in the total real market value (RMV) of residential property. The total RMV for residential properties reached $34.93 billion, representing a 4.07% increase from 2024. The total value of rural properties including acreage homes, farms, and forest lands slowed slightly compared to last year but still showed moderate growth, with an RMV of $14.64 billion, a 5.31% increase from 2024. Commercial and industrial properties experienced stable growth, reaching a combined RMV of $24.44 billion, a 7.21% increase from 2024.

Due to Measure 50 benefits, some homeowners will experience smaller tax increases than the preceding figures suggest. The typical unchanged home will experience only a 3% increase in assessed value no matter where they are in the county.  However, changes in tax rates due to new or expiring bonds will significantly affect owners in selected communities.

Assessed Value (AV) increased countywide by 4.81% to $34.98 billion, standing at just 45.62% of total Real Market Value. The main reason for the difference between Assessed Values and Real Market Values are due to the Measure 50 limit of 3% annual growth in the Maximum Assessed Value of unchanged property.  Other reasons for the difference in Assessed Values and Real Market Values include 12,233 properties which receive farm or forest special assessment, and 15,638 properties which receive full or partial tax exemptions.

Properties located within the City of Salem will see an average tax increase of about 8% due to a new voter approved local option levy ($0.98/$1,000), Salem/Keizer school bond increase (+$2.2 million) and an increase to the Chemeketa Community College Bond (+$1.7 million) due bond retirement and new voter approved bond. Properties located with Aumsville’s Rural Fire Patrol District will see a voter approved local option levy ($0.44/$1,000).

For the 2025-26 tax year the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) certified to Marion County a 178.566 cents/acre rate, this is a 107.324 cents/acre rate reduction from the 2024-25 tax year. The minimum surcharge increased from the 2024-25 tax year to $20.00 for a vacant lot or parcel and increased to $58.00 for all lots that contain a structure.

The largest share of Marion County property taxes will go to schools, the community college, and educational service districts receiving (44.40%) of the total. Other major recipients include Cities (23.74%), Marion County government (16.98%), and Fire Districts (7.06%). Urban renewal districts receive approximately (3.88%). Total tax collectibles for the 2025-26 tax year are $613,393,747.72.

Mr. Rohlfing encourages property owners to promptly review their tax statement for accuracy. This includes checking for correct ownership, mailing, and location addresses. To aid this, the Assessor’s Office provides a wide array of information on its website, including more detailed information about each property and how it is assessed.  The property records portion of the Assessor’s Office website allows you to search for a property in multiple ways, including a map search tool.

A maximum property tax discount of 3% can be received by paying in full by November 17^th. 

Owners with questions, or who feel changes are needed, should contact the Assessor’s Office at 503-588-5144. Those who disagree with the Real Market Value placed on their property are encouraged to request a review prior to filing an appeal.  If the property owner still does not agree with the value once the review is completed, instructions on the back of the tax statement describe how to appeal to the local Property Value Appeals Board, comprised of community volunteers.

SALEM, Oregon – The Oregon Military Department honored approximately 60 soldiers from A Company, Forward Support Company, 1249th Engineer Battalion during a mobilization ceremony Oct. 14, 2025, at the Anderson Readiness Center as they prepare to deploy in support of security operations along the U.S. southern border.

The soldiers will deploy to Texas where they will be assigned to the 104th Military Police Battalion, 10th Mountain Division, providing critical logistics support including vehicle recovery, maintenance, refueling and parts distribution.

"Today we gather to honor dedicated citizen-soldiers undertaking a mission at the southwest border," said Col. Philip DeMontigny, assistant adjutant general of the Oregon National Guard. "You represent the best of Oregon. A Company, Forward Support Company has a proud history, and once again, you have stepped up."

The Forward Support Company will operate in two platoons – one focused on distribution and one on maintenance – supporting military police operations along the border. Soldiers will receive mission-specific training at Fort Bliss, Texas, including logistics packages, refueling operations, vehicle recovery and security procedures before beginning their mission.

Capt. Timothy Gildea, commander of A Company, Forward Support Company and a police officer with the Medford Police Department in his civilian role, emphasized his unit's readiness despite the rapid timeline.
"We were notified of the deployment within the last four months," said Gildea. "I have an all-star staff who worked incredibly hard to get everybody spun up and ready to go. I'm incredibly proud of everybody."

The ceremony recognized several soldiers for their exceptional support during the mobilization preparation, including Sgt. Massey, who served 515 days including 75 days before the mobilization order to ensure proper training and equipment readiness.

DeMontigny also recognized 11 soldiers who recently returned from previous deployments yet volunteered for this mission, including several who volunteered within 10 days of returning home from the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team's recent deployment to the Middle East.

The 1249th Engineer Battalion traces its roots to the 249th Coastal Artillery, established in 1908. The unit is notable as the only U.S. military unit fired upon on American soil during World War II, when a Japanese submarine shelled Fort Stevens in 1942. The Oregon National Guard has a long history of supporting southern border security dating back to the 1800s.

Many of the deploying soldiers recently served with the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team's deployment, and some members of A Company, Forward Support Company previously deployed to Afghanistan in 2010.
"You share a long history of service," DeMontigny told the soldiers. "Your experience stabilizes the formation. Your resilience is evident."

DeMontigny encouraged the deploying soldiers to use their time intentionally, set professional and personal goals, and maintain strong communication with their teams and families throughout the deployment.

"The standards you're well aware of – respect everyone we meet, disciplined execution and teamwork," said DeMontigny. "To those deploying for the first time, we're proud of you. To those on your second, third or fourth deployment, your experience stabilizes the formation."

The colonel also thanked families and employers for their sacrifices and support.

"You manage the worries, you keep calendars, classrooms and workplaces running smoothly," DeMontigny said. "You do it with quiet strength that allows the soldiers to focus on the mission. You serve too."

Gildea emphasized that families will remain connected to their soldiers throughout the deployment.

"I don't want them to feel like they are going to be separated for that extensive amount of time," said Gildea. "We fully support having families come down to visit. We are here for you just as much as we're here for your soldier."

The mission, conducted in support of federal agency partners and coordinated through the Department of Homeland Security in cooperation with the Department of Defense, represents a unique opportunity for the Guard soldiers to work alongside active-duty forces and interagency partners.

Oregon National Guard members serve part-time, typically one weekend a month and two weeks a year, while maintaining civilian careers. They stand ready to respond to state emergencies such as wildfires and floods while also training to defend the nation when called to federal service.

Released B-Roll Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/984906/oregon-guard-unit-honors-soldiers-deploying-southern-border

Released Photos: 

251014-Z-ZJ128-1001
Capt. Timothy Gildea, commander of A Company, Forward Support Company, 1249th Engineer Battalion, stands in front of his formation during a mobilization ceremony Oct. 14, 2025, at the Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Oregon. Approximately 60 soldiers were honored during the ceremony as they prepare to deploy to Texas in support of security operations along the U.S. southern border. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

251014-Z-ZJ128-1002
Soldiers with A Company, Forward Support Company, 1249th Engineer Battalion stand in formation during a mobilization ceremony Oct. 14, 2025, at the Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Oregon. Approximately 60 soldiers were honored during the ceremony as they prepare to deploy to Texas in support of security operations along the U.S. southern border. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

251014-Z-ZJ128-1003
Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewald, the adjutant general of the Oregon National Guard, shakes hands with deploying soldiers alongside other senior leaders following a mobilization ceremony Oct. 14, 2025, at the Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Oregon. Approximately 60 soldiers from A Company, Forward Support Company, 1249th Engineer Battalion were honored during the ceremony as they prepare to deploy to Texas in support of security operations along the U.S. southern border. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

251014-Z-ZJ128-1004
U.S. Army Spc. Natalie Silva, assigned to A Company, Forward Support Company, 1249th Engineer Battalion, embraces a family member following a mobilization ceremony Oct. 14, 2025, at the Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Oregon. Silva, a certified nursing assistant in her civilian career, was among approximately 60 soldiers honored during the ceremony as they prepare to deploy to Texas in support of security operations along the U.S. southern border. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

Vancouver, Wash. – On Monday, Oct. 13 Vancouver City Council approved a $9.38 million contract with Tapani, Inc. to construct a Bridge Shelter at 5313 N.E. 94th Ave., marking another major milestone in the community’s effort to expand shelter and supportive services to address Vancouver’s homelessness emergency. Construction is expected to begin this November.

"Selecting a contractor is the next milestone for the Bridge Shelter project and expanding the safety net for our unhoused neighbors,” said Lon Pluckhahn, Vancouver’s City manager. “The shelter reflects the collective commitment of Vancouver to make progress on homelessness through compassion and collaboration.”

To speed up construction and reduce costs, the Bridge Shelter will use pre-engineered steel structures built off-site. This approach minimizes waste, labor and energy use while shortening the on-site construction timeline. The shelter is expected to open in fall 2026.

When complete, the 120-bed Bridge Shelter will provide a safe, low-barrier place to stay with a full range of supportive services to help people experiencing homelessness transition to permanent housing. Shelter operations will be led by Do Good Multnomah, with on-site case management, referrals for physical and mental health care, employment support and other individualized services. The Cowlitz Indian Tribe will provide on-site medical services to treat drug addiction.

The shelter’s dormitory building will include meeting spaces, showers, laundry and community areas. A second structure will house a kitchen and a large communal dining and gathering space, which can also be used for emergency weather sheltering.  

Funds to establish the shelter come from the City’s 2025-26 general fund, as well as grants, donations and partners. Funding partners to date include the Clark County Opioid Abatement Council, Clark County’s Mental Health Sales Tax, PeaceHealth’s Community Health Improvement Plan Grant and the Ed and Dolly Lynch Fund at the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington.

The Bridge Shelter is part of a broader network of City response efforts to address the homelessness emergency in Vancouver. Learn more at www.cityofvancouver.us/bridgeshelter.

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SALEM, Ore. – Three projects and one individual were honored for their contributions to thriving Oregon waterways, wetlands, and lands by the State Land Board today.

Since the State Land Board Awards were established in 2004, the Land Board has presented awards to remarkable efforts in every region of Oregon.

“Each year, the State Land Board Awards shine a light on the Oregonians who are restoring, protecting, and reimagining our natural landscapes. This year’s honorees exemplify the power of partnership and the deep care so many bring to stewarding Oregon’s lands and waters. Their work strengthens our communities, our ecosystems, and our shared future,” said Governor Tina Kotek, who presented the awards with Secretary of State Tobias Read and State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner.

The 2025 honored projects and partners are: 

Stream Award: Sheep Creek Stewardship Project

On a tributary of the upper Grande Ronde River in Oregon’s Blue Mountain landscape, the Sheep Creek Stewardship Project reconnected 101 acres of wetland habitat and restored more than 8.6 miles of streams and smaller tributaries. This work was coordinated with a broader forest ecosystem restoration effort, creating a ridgetop-to-ridgetop restoration area designed to maximize benefits for wildlife habitat, wildfire resilience, and water quality.

Located in a high montane meadow ecosystem, the area is considered source water for downstream communities, including Perry, La Grande, Imbler, Elgin, Summerville, and the Grande Ronde Valley.

The team used a hybrid mix of restoration tools, making the project a standout example of innovation in wetland floodplain restoration—locally, regionally, and nationally. As critical habitat for Snake River chinook, steelhead, bull trout and many other native species, the project is already showing early signs of success: Beaver have recently returned to the stream system, signaling a positive shift for native flora and fauna.

Project Leadership and Collaboration:

• Project Owners: Trout Unlimited, U.S. Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management
• Primary Project Team:
  • U.S. Forest Service – Wallowa-Whitman National Forest
  • Bureau of Land Management – Vale District
  • Grande Ronde Model Watershed Council
  • Wolf Water Resources
  • Trout Unlimited
• Project Partners:
  NW Youth Corps, US War Veterans Crew – North Fork John Day Watershed Council, Glacier Excavating, Anabranch Solutions, Wildlands Inc., Plantworks, Wolf Water Resources, Capitan Forestry, Streamside Services, Haskins Excavating, Cargill Fencing, and Hanging Rock Excavation

Wetland Award: West Sundial Wetlands

The West Sundial Wetlands mitigation project was part of the Port’s revitalization of a former brownfield into Troutdale Reynolds Industrial Park. The wetlands area spans over 82 acres in Troutdale, transforming a landscape once dominated by non-native pasture grasses and invasive forbs into a thriving wetland ecosystem. The project established a diverse mosaic of habitats, including forested wetlands, emergent wetlands, scrub-shrub wetlands, and upland buffer zones.

In addition to providing flood storage for the surrounding community, West Sundial Wetlands enhances habitat connectivity within the watershed—benefiting sensitive species such as the northern red-legged frog and a wide variety of wetland-associated bird species. The Ch’ak Ch’ak Trail, a 3-mile public trail located on the levee adjacent to the wetlands, offers visitors opportunities for wildlife viewing.

The project team worked closely with partners, including the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon, to ensure the preservation and protection of an archaeological site located near the wetlands. An interpretive panel along the Ch’ak Ch’ak Trail educates visitors about the area’s cultural and historical significance to Native peoples.

Project Leadership and Collaboration:

• Project Owners: Port of Portland, Kristina Kelchner
• Primary Project Team: Ken Anderton, Carrie Butler, Sarah Wilson
• Project Partners: Mosaic Ecology LLC

Catalyst Award: Kyle Waggoner

Kyle Waggoner may hold the title of Umatilla County Soil and Water Conservation District Manager, but in practice, he serves as the vital connective tissue between rural landowners and irrigators and the many natural resource agencies working in the region—including the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Marine Fisheries Service, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Oregon Department of State Lands, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, among others.

From creating the Landowner’s River Resiliency Guidebook to playing a key role in the City of Pendleton’s successful $3.7 million grant for large-scale stream restoration and the McKay Creek Watershed Action Plan, Kyle has proven himself an impressive leader. His local roots, strategic mindset, and approachable personality make him an exceptional catalyst for conservation and restoration in Umatilla County.

Partnership Award: John Day Basin Partnership

The John Day Basin is the largest basin in Oregon managed for wild salmonids and is home to the longest free-flowing river in the state. Through a basin-wide strategic action plan, the John Day Basin Partnership—a coalition of 30 tribal, local, state, and federal partners—collaborates to support on-the-ground restoration efforts.

Over the past six years, the Partnership has implemented a series of phased projects that have achieved the following outcomes:

• 58 fish passage barriers remediated or removed
• Over 50 miles of stream habitat restored
• 230 acres of floodplain reconnected
• 681 acres of riparian habitat protected and improved with livestock exclusion fencing
• More than 250,000 native plants installed
• Over 1,100 beaver dam analogs constructed

These actions have improved aquatic habitat for sensitive species such as Middle Columbia River summer steelhead, bull trout, Chinook salmon, and Pacific lamprey. The Partnership also participates in a network of Intensively Monitored Watersheds across the Pacific Northwest—long-term, large-scale research projects designed to deepen understanding of how salmon and steelhead populations respond to river restoration.

The Partnership’s success is a direct result of the voluntary partnerships with John Day Basin's private, working lands, landowners who make these conservation and restoration projects possible. 

Honoring Tradition Through Art

The artwork for this year’s awards consists of museum-quality woven rounds, crafted using traditional Indigenous basket-weaving techniques. Each piece features natural materials harvested from across Oregon’s diverse ecosystems—such as cedar bark, juncus, cattail, tule, hazel stick, and spruce or willow root. These unique creations represent both the ecological abundance of this place and the enduring cultural relationships Indigenous people have maintained since time immemorial.

The artist who created each award is Stephanie Craig, anqati təmtəm tənas siyaxus, (Takelma Rogue River, Cow Creek Umpqua, Santiam and Yoncalla Kalapuya, Clackamas Chinook, Wakanasisi, Mohawk, Métis, and American). Craig is a master basket weaver, anthropologist, educator, and cultural consultant. She is the founder of Kalapuya Weaving and Consulting and Rooted Ways: An Indigenous Cultural & Ecological Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Indigenous knowledge through weaving, land restoration, and cultural education. Her weaving continues the traditions of the al’halpam and ayankalat Kalapuya people, honoring ancestral teachings and materials gathered across Oregon, ensuring these lifeways endure for future generations.

The reclaimed wood plaques for the awards were made by volunteers from the community of St. Johns, Portland.

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www.oregon.gov/dsl

About the State Land Board Awards 

Now in their 21st year, the State Land Board Awards honor projects and partners that protect and enhance Oregon’s treasured natural resources. Learn more on the Land Board Awards website or view this year’s awards ceremony on the Department of State Lands YouTube Channel. 

About the State Land Board

The State Land Board is Governor Tina Kotek, Secretary of State Tobias Read, and State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. Established by the Oregon Constitution in 1859, the Land Board oversees the state’s Common School Fund, and the lands granted at statehood “for use of schools.”

About the Department of State Lands

The Department of State Lands is the Land Board’s administrative agency, managing the lands dedicated to helping fund Oregon’s public schools and protecting the state’s waterways and wetlands for the many benefits they provide.

Download photos of the State Land Board Awards ceremony and honored projects and partners here.

On Tuesday, October 14th, at 8:53 a.m., the Vancouver Fire Department responded to reports of a gas line leak at the intersection of Main Street and East 7th Street. Upon arrival, crews from the Vancouver Fire Department shut down the entire block and evacuated twenty-one individuals from seven nearby occupancies. The Vancouver Fire Department worked in coordination with NW Natural and Clark Public Utilities to locate and secure the gas line. Once the gas leak was secured, the block was reopened to public traffic approximately one hour later. Eleven firefighters responded, and no injuries were reported. 

On Monday, October 13, at 9:23 a.m., the Vancouver Fire Department responded to reports of activated fire alarms and sprinklers at Fourth Plain Commons, located at 2200 Norris Road.

Nineteen fire units with a total of 41 firefighters responded to the incident. After arriving, crews discovered that a fire had occurred in a second-floor unit. The building’s sprinkler system had activated and helped control the fire before firefighters arrived. Crews quickly brought the fire under full control and contained it to one apartment.

Residents from four apartments on the second floor were displaced as a result of the incident. The American Red Cross was contacted to provide assistance to those affected. No injuries were reported.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On September 19, 2025, a Washington County jury found Felipe Mandujano-Cardona, age 52, guilty of five counts of sexual abuse in the first degree, luring a minor, and two counts of invasion of privacy. On October 1, 2025, Judge Hafez Daraee sentenced the defendant to 240 months in prison. Senior Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman prosecuted this case.

The defendant sexually abused two victims who were under 10 years of age. The first victim was subjected to abuse multiple times over a period of several years. The first victim disclosed the abuse in 2015, which prompted the Hillsboro Police Department and the Oregon Department of Human Services to investigate. The defendant fled the area upon learning of this investigation. A warrant for his arrest was secured. The second victim was similarly subjected to abuse during the 2015 timeframe. She disclosed to a mandatory reporter in 2023. Hillsboro police launched another investigation and arrested the defendant on both cases.

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the victims for having the courage to come forward. This office also acknowledges the work of the Hillsboro Police Department and DHS on these cases.

In addition to his prison sentence, the defendant is required to register as a sex offender and to serve 10 years of post-prison supervision following the completion of his sentence.

Salem – Gov. Tina Kotek has officially proclaimed Oct. 20-24, 2025 as Community Bank Week in Oregon, recognizing the vital role community banks play in supporting families, small businesses, and communities across the state.

“For well over a century, community banks doing business in Oregon have provided local financial services and have supported the prosperity and growth of our communities,” said Gov. Kotek in the proclamation. “Community banks are an integral part of Oregon’s overall economy through their community giving, dedication as good neighbors, and above all, their critical role in providing reliable financial services to Oregonians.”

Community banks serve Oregon through more than 325 branches and loan offices, employing 4,700 Oregonians in family-wage jobs. They also make more than half of all bank loans to small businesses, fueling entrepreneurship and job creation in every corner of the state. Community banks also make $3.5 billion in small business loans made annually in Oregon and safeguard over $47 billion in deposits.

“Community banks play a vital role in Oregon’s economy and in communities across the state,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “They provide essential financial services, support local businesses, and help strengthen the economic foundation of Oregon.”

Community banks are central to Oregon’s economic vitality, contributing to schools, infrastructure, and public services through taxes and serving the credit needs of all communities – including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods – under the federal Community Reinvestment Act. In many rural areas, they are the only local financial institution, making this commitment especially important.

“Community banks are unique because their success is directly tied to the strength of the communities they serve,” said Scott Bruun, president and CEO of the Community Banks of Oregon. “They create jobs, provide access to capital, support local nonprofits, and contribute to Oregon’s tax base. Gov. Kotek’s proclamation recognizes just how essential community banks are to Oregon’s economy and quality of life.”

During Community Bank Week, banks across Oregon will celebrate with customer appreciation events, community service projects, food drives, free community shred events where residents can securely dispose of confidential documents, and other outreach efforts that highlight the positive impact of local banking. Discover more about community banks and connect with one in your area at www.oregonbankers.com/local.

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Oct. 14, 2025

Media Contact: Kim Lippert erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov 971-323-3831

New Tillamook shelter expands recovery housing access

Tillamook, Ore. – A new recovery housing shelter in Tillamook is expanding access to behavioral health resources on the Oregon coast, providing temporary housing, restrooms and showers, and onsite services to help residents achieve long-term housing and employment.

The Anchor Night-by-Night Shelter and the West Shelter Village, part of the Tillamook Micro Shelter Project led by Community Action Resource Enterprises (CARE), celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting Oct. 10.

“We are thrilled to see recovery housing becoming available in Tillamook for those in need of a safe and stable place to call home,” said Ebony Clarke, behavioral health director at Oregon Health Authority (OHA). “Our mission is to ensure that everyone has access to the housing and support they need to thrive.”

OHA awarded approximately $1.7 million in Measure 110 Behavioral Health Resource Network funding to support this project, including more than $700,000 for the capital project. This investment aligns with the agency and Governor Kotek’s commitment to addressing the social factors that impact health, including access to stable housing.

The new housing is part of Tillamook County’s efforts to provide compassionate, low-barrier shelter and supportive services to individuals and families experiencing houselessness.

The Tillamook Micro Shelter Project features a congregate shelter, individual “micro-shelters” for temporary housing, ADA-accessible restrooms and showers, and onsite services to help residents achieve long term housing and employment. A micro-shelter is a small, simple structure designed to provide basic protection from the elements.

Staff from Community Action Resource Enterprises (CARE) celebrated the opening of a new Micro Shelter Project in Tillamook on Oct. 10. The new facility includes housing for families and individuals in need of safe and stable housing.

The Anchor shelter will be open from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m., providing emergency shelter for up to 10 adults in a safe, warm space. It is open to adults 18 and over.

"With compassion and community at the heart of our mission at CARE Inc., we’re proud to open the doors of our new shelter in Tillamook — a safe haven and stepping stone for our houseless neighbors to rebuild, reconnect and reclaim hope, said Koren Karlovic, project manager for the Houseless Action Network at CARE Inc."

The Village welcomes both individuals and families. As a “low-barrier” shelter, it does not require sobriety or a mental health diagnosis for entry. Residents participate in CARE’s shelter program to address barriers toward permanent housing. Stays are limited to six months, while the Anchor offers nightly shelter on a first-come, first-served basis.

Anyone in need of housing should come to the CARE Inc office at 2310 First Street in Tillamook to make an appointment with a peer for an assessment.

Oct. 14, 2025

Contact: Franny White, 971-349-9539, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov (media inquiries)

Melisa Otrugman ugman@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">melisa.z.otrugman@oha.oregon.gov (meeting information or accommodation)

Sustainable Cost Growth Target for 2026-2030 Workgroup meets Oct. 21

What: The second meeting of a short-term workgroup tasked to review economic trend data and recommend what Oregon’s cost growth target should be for 2026–2030.

When:  Tuesday, October 21, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.  

Where: This is a virtual meeting.

• Join by Zoom
  • Meeting ID: 160 848 3856; Passcode: 332290
• Join by Phone: One tap mobile
  • +16692545252,,1608483856 # US (San Jose)
  • +16468287666,,1608483856 # US (New York)

Agenda:

• Welcome, recap meeting #1
• How other states set and revisit their cost growth targets
• Introduction to economic indicators
• Key questions about Oregon’s target
• Plan for meeting #3, next steps

Public Comment:

There will not be a public comment period held at this meeting. To submit public comment about the cost growth target for 2026-2030 or the Workgroup, please email it to e.CostTarget@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">HealthCare.CostTarget@oha.oregon.gov.

All public comments received will be shared with the Workgroup and posted online.

For more information, please visit the Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target’s website.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Melisa Otrugman ugman@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">melisa.z.otrugman@oha.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

PORTLAND, Ore.—Six defendants made their first appearances in federal court today after committing various offenses—including assaulting federal officers and creating a hazard on federal property—during ongoing protest gatherings near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Samuel Tate Berry, 29, who has recently resided in Gearhart and Seaside, Oregon, as well as Kelso, Washington, has been charged by criminal complaint with the misdemeanor offenses of assaulting a federal officer and failure to comply with official signs and directions.

Juniper Perry Weed, 21, of Jackson, Michigan, has been charged by criminal complaint with the misdemeanor offenses of assaulting a federal officer and failure to comply with official signs and directions.

Edwardo Diaz Guardado, 22, of Vancouver, Washington, has been charged by criminal complaint with the misdemeanor offense of assaulting a federal officer.

Andrew James Beason, 53, of Beaverton, Oregon, has been charged by information with the misdemeanor offense of failing to obey a lawful order.

Nokomis Lee, 22, of Grand Ronde, Oregon, has been charged by information with the misdemeanor offense of failing to obey a lawful order.

Liam Harry Houpis, 22, also of Vancouver, has been charged by information with the misdemeanor offense of creating a hazard on federal property.

According to court documents and information shared in court, on June 18, 2025, several hundred people gathered near an ICE office in South Portland where, for more than week, individuals have repeatedly targeted the building and various federal law enforcement officers with mortar fireworks, rocks, bricks, glass bottles, signs, and makeshift shields. At approximately 6:38pm, federal officers on site were informed that six official vehicles were en route and needed to enter the property via a vehicle gate blocked by the crowd.

After issuing warnings and asking the group to move, federal officers opened the vehicle gate and advanced on the crowd to clear the driveway for the arriving vehicles. Defendants Berry and Weed failed to comply with the officers’ directions and, while being placed under arrest, assaulted officers. Later the same evening, a crowd again blocked the building’s vehicle gate and, after being warned a second time, were cleared to allow law enforcement vehicles to exit the property. During this second clearing, at approximately 10:55pm, defendants Beason and Lee failed to obey lawful orders issued by law enforcement. A fifth defendant, Guardado, was observed possessing a high-powered laser pointer that he pointed at a federal officer, striking the officer in the eye and temporarily blinding him.

The following evening, on June 19, 2025, several dozen individuals again gathered at the South Portland ICE office, when, at approximately 10:20pm, defendant Houpis was observed using a drill and screws on plywood doors affixed to the building’s exterior in an attempt to prevent federal officers from exiting the building.

All six defendants made their first appearances in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and were released on conditions pending future court proceedings.

Misdemeanor assault of a federal officer is punishable by up to one year in federal prison. Failure to obey a lawful order, failure to comply with official signs and directions, and creating a hazard on federal property are all Class C misdemeanors and carry a maximum penalty of 30 days in prison.

These cases are being investigated by the FBI and Federal Protective Service (FPS), and are being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

Criminal informations and complaints are only accusations of a crime, and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

# # #

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
October 14, 2025

CITIES OF VANCOUVER AND BATTLE GROUND PROCLAIM OCTOBER 15 AS SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DAY
 

Proclamations recognize the Greater Vancouver Chamber’s impact and encourage community engagement.

VANCOUVER, Wash.  — The City of Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle and the City of Battle Ground Mayor Troy McCoy have each issued proclamations declaring October 15 as “Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day” in their respective cities. These designations coincide with the national observance held annually on the third Wednesday of October, celebrating the essential role Chambers of Commerce play in strengthening local economies and fostering community growth.

Both proclamations were presented to the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) team during Monday evening’s City Council meetings at each City Hall.

As the largest business organization in Southwest Washington, with nearly 1,000 members, the Greater Vancouver Chamber has served as a cornerstone of business advocacy, connection, and community prosperity for more than 135 years. Regional Chambers like the GVC unite resources across city lines, aligning businesses, government, and nonprofits toward a shared goal of economic vitality for all of Southwest Washington.

A recent Harris Poll conducted on behalf of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) in 2024 underscores the continued importance of chambers nationwide:

• 81% of U.S. adults agree their local chamber is a trusted resource and business partner.
• 90% believe chambers positively impact local economic growth.
• 88% recognize chambers’ role in addressing community challenges.

“For the Chamber, it’s an honor to be recognized by both the City of Vancouver and the City of Battle Ground for our shared commitment to regional prosperity,” said John McDonagh, President & CEO of the Greater Vancouver Chamber. “Our Chamber serves as a connector, convener, and catalyst, bridging city boundaries to ensure that businesses, workers, and consumers across Southwest Washington thrive together.”

McDonagh added, “A business in Battle Ground might source materials from a company in Ridgefield, hire someone from Vancouver, and sell to customers in Camas. Regional collaboration reflects the reality of how our local economy works, and the Chamber’s role is to align those interests for the greater good.”

Both mayors encouraged businesses and residents to take advantage of the Greater Vancouver Chamber’s resources and to join in celebrating its longstanding contributions to the region on this special day.

###

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for more than 135 years through business advocacy, community building, education, and creating visibility for our members. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals, and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The GVC is the heart of Clark County’s business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate and prosperity for all. For more information, please visit VancouverUSA.com. 

Media Assets: 

• Photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1evL5CvpHzkF8yEr-RuQj_A2rmQcdQNhN?usp=sharing
• Infographic: Understanding Perceptions About Local Chambers of Commerce

Media Advisory – All Media Are Invited

What: Waterway Cleanup Series Wrap-Up event at High Rocks Park

When: Wednesday, October 15, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Where: 77 82nd Drive Gladstone, OR 97027 | Map Link

Event Description: Join SOLVE for the concluding event of the Waterway Cleanup Series, a recurring and much-anticipated initiative in collaboration with Clackamas Water Environment Services. From May through September, SOLVE actively promotes and lends support to an array of litter cleanup projects across the region, all dedicated to elevating the cleanliness of our rivers, streams, and creeks. This final event of the summer-long series will help beautify the riverbanks of the Clackamas River and celebrate the culmination of 60 cleanups along various waterways, lakes, and recreational areas, including the Molalla, Rogue, Siletz, Willamette, Clackamas Rivers, and Columbia Rivers.

Why: Oregon's rivers are renowned for their beauty, yet they face ongoing threats from litter and runoff from developed areas. The need to clean our waterways has never been more critical. SOLVE invites volunteers of all ages to participate in this final event of the summer initiative, aimed at removing litter from our rivers, streams, and creeks. Together, we can take meaningful steps to ensure our communities benefit from safe, healthy water for generations to come.

Media Crews: Arrive by 9:45 am on the pedestrian bridge crossing the Clackamas River located right next to the DMV to see approximately 50 volunteers of all ages checking in, collecting their cleanup supplies, receiving a safety speech and event debrief, and then heading out in groups to pick up litter along the Clackamas River.

This event will feature plenty of visuals of volunteers picking up litter along the Clackamas riverbanks and at High Rocks Park, making for great community packages, VOs, and VOSOTS.

Available interviewees:

• Kris Carico, Chief Executive Officer, SOLVE
• Greg Geist, Director, Clackamas Water Environment Services

Visit the event registration page or the Waterway Cleanup Series landing page on the SOLVE website 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.

About Clackamas Water Environment Services

Clackamas Water Environment Services produces clean water, protects water quality and recovers renewable resources. We do this by providing wastewater services, stormwater management, and environmental education. It’s our job to protect public health and support the vitality of our communities, natural environment, and economy. Learn more at: https://www.clackamas.us/wes.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is revising its Comprehensive Growth Management Plan, a 20-year guide for managing growth and development with respect to the natural environment and available resources. As a part of the update, the county is conducting an agricultural resource lands study.

Following the first open house in September, this second event will provide information on the methodology used for the study. Some high-level initial findings will also be discussed. The upcoming open house is scheduled for 5:30-7:30 pm Tuesday, Oct. 28, at the Battle Ground Community Center, 912 E Main St. Registration for the open house is encouraged at bit.ly/2025CPAgReg2.

Clark County has not performed a comprehensive agricultural resource lands study since the initial adoption of the county’s first comprehensive plan under the Growth Management Act (GMA) in 1994. The general purpose of the study is to help inform the county’s decisions regarding the 2025 comprehensive plan update and ensure that the county’s agricultural resource lands designations comply with applicable county code and state statutes. 

The study will focus on land within the unincorporated areas of the county, outside of the current urban growth areas. It will include currently designated agricultural resource lands and rural zoned lands.

Translation services may be available upon request. Request must be sent to comp.plan@clark.wa.gov by 10-22-25.

Los servicios de traducción pueden estar disponibles si los solicita. Se debe enviar la solicitud a comp.plan@clark.wa.gov antes del 10-22-25.

Услуга письменного перевода может быть предоставлена по запросу. Запрос необходимо направить на адрес comp.plan@clark.wa.gov до 25.10.22.

可应要求提供翻译服务。 请求必须在 2025 年 10 月 22 日之前发送至 comp.plan@clark.wa.gov

Comments can be submitted in the following ways: 

• At the 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

Learn more about the county agricultural resource lands study at: bit.ly/2025CPAgStudy

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County celebrated individuals and employers for their contributions to inclusive workplaces at the 25^th Annual Clark County Disability Employment Awareness Month Awards event on Oct. 8. The event honored the role people with developmental disabilities have in supporting a dynamic, productive workforce and recognized the leadership of the business community.

The event, which also celebrated October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, included a keynote video highlighting both the historical and current perspectives on the value of work, advocacy, and community in Clark County.

Here are the award winners for each category:

Trader Joe’s, Salmon Creek

Large Employer of people with developmental/intellectual disabilities

(50 or more local employees)

Little Lights Learning Center

Small Employer of people with developmental/intellectual disabilities

(49 or less local employees)

Doug McPherson

Employee of the year

Maradee Potter

Dennis Campbell Outstanding Service Award for outstanding service to improve the lives of individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities

Adrienne Hollister

David Hanawalt Service Award for an employment specialist who demonstrates service to their clients above and beyond clients’ expectations, exceeds the contractual expectations, and promotes client success and growth.

Zach Worthy

Spotlight on Innovation Award honored an individual who saw a community need and partnered with a local organization to meet that need, creating a paid job for themself in the process.

NORTH PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College has announced the hiring of Chelsea Stocks as the new head coach of the women’s basketball team, marking a milestone moment for the program.

“We are excited to welcome Coach Chelsea as our new head women’s basketball coach,” said Anthony Broadous, PCC Director of Athletics. “Her experience and accomplishments stood out among a strong pool of candidates. We look forward to the energy she brings this season and to seeing what she will accomplish as she settles in.”

Stocks joins PCC after serving as a Division I assistant coach at Cal State–Fullerton, bringing nearly two decades of coaching experience across the collegiate, high school and club levels. A former community college student-athlete herself, she called the appointment “an amazing opportunity” and looks forward to meeting Panther fans at the team’s season-opening weekend, Nov. 13–15 at the Cascade Campus, 705 N. Killingsworth Street.

“This is a historic hire for the program,” added Broadous, who said Stocks is one of the few women to lead a collegiate women’s basketball program in the region.

Originally from Southern California, Stocks first came to the Pacific Northwest to study sport management at Washington State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in 2011. She later earned a master’s in Sport Performance Psychology from Long Beach State, a background she says is vital to coaching today’s athletes.

“So much of athletes’ performance is mental,” she said. “It’s critical to train the mind along with the body for positive performance.”

Stocks’ coaching philosophy centers on three values, growth, drive and joy, with a mission to ensure every student-athlete leaves PCC as a more confident, resilient and prepared individual.

“Our program is about more than wins and losses,” she said. “We want to teach teamwork, discipline, and resilience while helping every athlete discover the confidence and tools they need to thrive in whatever path they choose.”

Stocks also champions gender equity in athletics and is an active supporter of WeCoach, a national organization dedicated to increasing the number of women in coaching.

“It’s powerful for young women to see female leadership on the sidelines,” she said. “PCC is helping move those numbers in the right direction.”

For more information on PCC Athletics visit panthers.pcc.edu/

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 57,000 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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REACH Community Development Launches Rose City Partnership to Expand Pathways to Homeownership in Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. — One of the largest and longest standing affordable rental developers in the Portland Metro, REACH Community Development (REACH) is expanding into homeownership. In an exclusive interview with the Oregonian, REACH announced the formation of Rose City Fund LLC, a new partnership to repair and reposition 66 scattered site rental homes into affordable homeownership opportunities. The homes include single-family homes, duplexes, triplexes, and small multi-family buildings primarily in the Buckman neighborhood of Southeast Portland.

For too long, Portland neighborhoods have been out of reach for first-time homebuyers. This initiative opens new avenues for REACH residents and other community members to build stability and wealth through homeownership. Under the Rose City Fund LLC partnership, the REACH for Homeownership initiative will offer existing tenants the first opportunity to purchase, while first-time homebuyers and local mission driven nonprofits will also be prioritized. To ensure families are set up for success, REACH and its partners are incorporating mortgage counseling, down payment and closing cost assistance, and home repair resources into the program.

“REACH is committed to supporting the full continuum of affordable housing and working creatively to advance residents along that continuum toward financial stability and wealth creation,” shared Margaret Salazar, Chief Executive Officer of REACH.  “Through the REACH for Homeownership initiative, we are piloting strategies to connect existing homes to residents and community members working toward the dream of homeownership.”

REACH is partnering with Brick By Brick Housing Corporation (“B3”), a nonprofit organization based in Minneapolis, and Housing Partnership Network (HPN), a national association of nonprofit affordable housing developers, to form Rose City Fund LLC. This partnership will oversee home repairs, sales, and coordination with local nonprofit homeownership centers.  Lead lender APEX and the Housing Partnership Fund are also involved as financial partners. The initiative launched in early October 2025 with individual home sales to buyers planned in phases over the next two years.

“B3 has worked with communities across the country to preserve affordability and expand access to homeownership, and we are honored to bring this experience to Portland,” said Scott Fergus, Chief Executive Officer of B3. “This partnership reflects our shared belief that affordable homeownership is a cornerstone of building wealth and stability for families.”

Through the portfolio transfer of these homes and formation of Rose Fund City LLC, REACH will use net proceeds to strengthen its financial position and attract financing to stabilize and repair hundreds of deeply affordable rental homes across the region. With significant capital needs in aging properties, REACH is raising resources to repair and preserve the long-term viability of its rental communities for years to come.

 “The preservation of affordable housing is one of the City’s highest priorities, and this reinvestment ensures that hundreds of Portland families will remain stably housed for years to come,” said Helmi Hisserich, Director of the Portland Housing Bureau. “REACH’s approach demonstrates how creative strategies like this initiative can both expand homeownership and protect deeply affordable rentals for our most vulnerable residents.”

The Rose City Fund LLC program follows a formal disposition “waterfall” that prioritizes sales to REACH tenants first, giving current residents the right of first refusal to purchase their rental homes. Beyond current tenants, sales will focus on first-time homebuyers and households earning under 120% of the area median income, followed by qualified, mission-aligned nonprofits serving low-income and first-time homebuyers.  REACH is partnering with local agencies including Portland Housing Center, Proud Ground, Urban League PDX and NAYA to support this effort. REACH has a goal to sell at least 50% of homes to first-time homebuyers and 15% of homes to current REACH residents.

 “Proud Ground is thrilled to partner with REACH on this important effort to expand homeownership opportunities in Portland,” said Dominique Merriweather, Executive Director of Proud Ground. “For too long, families—especially families of color—have been shut out of homeownership and the stability it provides. By prioritizing first-time buyers and permanently affordable models, this program helps ensure that more families can build wealth and put down roots in our community.”

To support residents, REACH is offering tenants complimentary homeownership counseling through a partnership with the Portland Housing Center.  “For many families, homeownership has felt out of reach,” said Dana Shephard, Executive Director of the Portland Housing Center. “This program changes that by providing counseling, education, and financial pathways that give first-time buyers the tools they need to succeed.”

For current residents who do not purchase, REACH has the capacity to relocate households into newer REACH affordable rental units across its 2,700-home portfolio in the Portland Metro. Rose City Fund LLC will also offer relocation services and enhanced relocation financial assistance well above the City of Portland’s minimum requirements. Residents will be offered financial packages that can be used for relocation expenses, down payment assistance, closing costs or other financial needs.

All homes sold through the Rose City Fund program will be brought to financeable condition, ensuring they are safe, durable, and eligible for conventional or FHA mortgages. Rehabilitation efforts will focus on critical systems such as roofs, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical work rather than cosmetic updates, supporting long-term housing stability for low- to moderate-income buyers.

###

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. 

About Brick By Brick Housing Corporation

Brick by Brick (B3) creates opportunities for low and moderate income families to achieve homeownership, fostering financial stability and intergenerational wealth. Through innovative housing strategies and partnerships, it aims to build thriving, sustainable communities where families can flourish.  Learn more at b3td.org.

About Housing Partnership Network

Housing Partnership Network is made up of 100+ leading nonprofit housing developers, owners, and financial institutions across the U.S., networked for significant impact. It delivers creative solutions to address gaps in the affordable housing sector and to scale and advance members' missions. Learn more at housingpartnership.net

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. (13 Oct. 2025) – On Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 1:08 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Highway 42 near milepost 76 in Douglas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a male pedestrian, Dustin Rios (30) of Canyonville, was in the lane of travel for an unknown reason and was struck by an eastbound vehicle on Highway 42 near Grant Smith Road close to the Taco Bell restaurant near Winston. A black Honda passenger vehicle fled the scene after striking the pedestrian. 

Despite lifesaving efforts, the pedestrian (Rios) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Roadside evidence suggests the involved vehicle is a 2006-2011 black Honda Civic. Evidence from the scene indicated the vehicle sustained damage to the driver’s side mirror. Law enforcement also recovered an adhesive transparent window visor believed to have come from the driver’s side door.

The vehicle was last seen traveling eastbound on Highway 42 toward Interstate 5 and may have continued northbound.

Anyone with information is asked to contact OSP’s Southern Command dispatch center at 800-442-2068 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP25-433741.

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

OSP was assisted by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Winston Police Department, Douglas County Emergency Services, Douglas County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

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 documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using 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.

Police in Gresham are investigating a series of thefts and robberies which have targeted local retailers.  Surveillance footage captured the suspect, who is described as 18-25 years old, 5’6”-5’9” tall, and weighing about 120 pounds, jumping over the checkout to steal cash from the register.  Anyone who recognizes the suspect is asked to email Gresham Police Sgt. Adam Oblack at

lack@GreshamOregon.gov">Adam.Oblack@GreshamOregon.gov

Oct. 13, 2025

Media Contact: Communications@employ.oregon.gov

MEDIA ADVISORY

Oregon Employment Department adjusts monthly media plans amid federal shutdown

Salem, Ore. – Due to the ongoing federal shutdown, the Oregon Employment Department (OED) is unable to share some labor market data and is adjusting its monthly economic reporting and media activities for the week of Oct. 13-17.

Although the unemployment rate and nonfarm payroll data for Oregon in September is not available during the shutdown, OED will share what data is available in its regularly scheduled statewide press release on Wednesday, Oct. 15.

The department will not host a media briefing this week, but will release a media statement on Thursday, Oct. 16 with agency updates, including the latest Unemployment Insurance claims data and an upgrade to Frances Online functionality for employers.

This situation continues to change quickly, and OED will continue to adapt in order to provide the public, our partners, and the media with accurate economic and labor market information.

###

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov.

Oct. 13, 2025

Media Contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459 PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Conference of Local Health Officials to meet Oct.16

What: The monthly public meeting of the Conference of Local Health Officials (CLHO).

Agenda: Committee appointments; Elections; Annual CLHO Committee Reports; Federal Funding Updates; Rural Health Transformation Program.

Agenda is subject to change and is posted with meeting materials on the CLHO website at http://www.oregonclho.org/ prior to meeting.

There is no public comment period during this meeting.

When: Thursday, Oct. 16, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Where: This meeting will be virtual via Zoom. Members of the public must register for the meeting here.

Background: The Conference of Local Health Officials provides recommendations to the Oregon Health Authority on the foundational capabilities and programs and any other public health program or activity under ORS 431.340.

Program contact: Liz Hunt, 503-756-5678, liz.a.hunt@oha.oregon.gov

# # #

For people who speak or use a language other than English, people with disabilities or people who need additional support, we can provide free help. Some examples are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages or transcript
• Braille
• Real-time captioning (CART)
• Large print
• Virtual platform change
• Audio and other formats

This meeting will be virtual only. This meeting will screen share and use Word documents, PDFs, and PowerPoint presentations.

Please contact Liz Hunt at 503-756-5678 (voice or text) or liz.a.hunt@oha.oregon.gov by Wednesday, Oct. 15 to request an accommodation.

Oct. 13, 2025

Media Contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459 PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Opioid Settlement Research, Evaluation and Data System Subcommittee to meet Oct. 15

What: A public meeting of the Opioid Settlement Data, Research and Evaluation Subcommittee.

Agenda: The Agenda is here.

When: Oct.15, 2025, from 9 to 10:30 a.m.

Where: Via Zoom Meeting

Dial by your location

• +1 669 254 5252 US (San Jose)
• +1 646 828 7666 US (New York)

Meeting ID: 161 551 1946

Passcode: 533818

Background: On August 6, 2025, the OSPTR Board approved the merger of The Data System Subcommittee and the Research and Evaluation Subcommittee.

The purpose of the Opioid Settlement Research, Evaluation and Data System Subcommittee (RED Subcommittee) is to make spending recommendations to the OSPTR board for the research and evaluation and data system allocation categories.

Read more about Oregon’s opioid settlement funds at www.oregon.gov/opioidsettlement.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters.
• Written materials in other languages.
• Braille.
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact the Oregon Opioid Settlement team at 971-678-1036, or OHA.OpioidSettlement@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Oct. 13, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider,971-599-0459, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Prineville Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Prineville Reservoir due to elevated microcystin. The lake is in Crook County.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA encourages people to visit Prineville Reservoir and enjoy activities such as, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source.

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention.

Dogs can experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

Fishing

The risks associated with consuming fish from waters with active blooms where cyanotoxins are present is poorly understood. At this time OHA is recommending that fish, and crayfish in particular, caught from Prineville Reservoir not be consumed. If you do decide to consume fish caught from Prineville Reservoir, we recommend that you remove the fat, viscera, and skin, and rinse the filettes in clean water prior to consumption.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 1-877-290-6767, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

Photos courtesy of the DNA Doe Project. 

PORTLAND, Ore. (13 Oct. 2025) – More than 30 years ago, on August 17, 1992, workers clearing brush near the St. Johns Bridge in North Portland discovered the fully skeletonized remains of a man. Local law enforcement immediately responded to conduct a death investigation, and the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office was called in to help recover the remains.
 

This week, with help from the DNA Doe Project, the remains were positively identified as Bryant Edward Deane, who is believed to have been about 39 years old at the time of his death.

After the remains were transferred to the medical examiner’s office, a forensic pathologist and forensic anthropologist examined the bones and determined the decedent was likely a white male, close to 50 years old, and about 5-foot-2 to 5-foot-5 in height. They noted arthritic changes, several fractures, a marked difference in leg length indicating the man would have walked with a limp, and estimated he had been deceased for about a year before discovery.

The fractures were more pronounced on the left side of the body, suggesting the decedent may have fallen from the bridge or been struck by a vehicle and thrown from the bridge. However, the cause and manner of death remain undetermined.

The clothed remains included a maroon fleece-lined jacket, dark denim pants, MacGregor brand ankle boots, and gray and brown cotton gloves on both hands, suggesting the man died during the winter. Brown hair was found near the remains. A dental examination showed evidence of restorations.

Unfortunately, there were no leads on the man’s identity, and the case went cold.

As with other unidentified remains cases, some progress was made over the years, but the case only advanced significantly with developments in genetic genealogy.

In 2011, a NamUs profile (UP#8259) was created, and DNA results were uploaded to the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), though no matches were found.

In 2019, more extensive short tandem repeat (STR) DNA testing was completed, resulting in the addition of Y-STR (male-specific) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) profiles to CODIS. Despite these efforts, no matches were made.

In February 2024, the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office partnered with the DNA Doe Project, which offered pro bono assistance. The organization secured funding for advanced DNA extraction and sequencing.

In March 2025, Astrea Forensics produced a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) profile, which was uploaded to the GEDmatch Pro database. The enhanced profile indicated North Atlantic, Baltic, and western Mediterranean heritage. DNA Doe Project volunteers began the process of investigative genetic genealogy.

In June, the SNP profile was uploaded to the FamilyTreeDNA database to find additional matches. Soon after, volunteers began narrowing in on a match by researching family records, old newspaper clippings, and other sources. By August, they had identified a potential match and possible relatives to contact.

The medical examiner’s office reached out to the decedent’s presumed brother, who had not been in contact with him since the mid-to-late 1970s. He agreed to provide a DNA sample for comparison.

In October 2025, the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the remains as those of Bryant Edward Deane, born Aug. 2, 1952.

Based on the totality of genetic and circumstantial evidence, Dr. Sean Hurst, Oregon’s chief medical examiner, positively identified the remains. Next of kin have been notified. The Portland Police Bureau has been made aware of the positive identification in the case.

“This case was cold for 33 years,” said Hailey Collord-Stalder, forensic anthropologist with the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office. “Bryant’s parents passed in 2017 and 2019, respectively, never knowing what happened to their son. His family left a space for him on their headstone; now he can finally be laid to rest with his family.”

The Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office is grateful for the work of the DNA Doe Project and its volunteers, who are committed to restoring names to unidentified persons. The project continues to assist the office on several other cases.

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About the Oregon State Police
The Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. 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 to other law enforcement agencies throughout the state. 

On October 8, 2025, just before 10:00 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies patrolling on SW Tualatin Valley Highway near SE 48th Avenue in Hillsboro saw the driver of a 2019 Dodge Journey commit a traffic violation. While trying to pull the vehicle over, the driver began eluding.

The driver headed into neighborhoods near SW 170th Avenue and SW Ivy Glenn Street, where a caller reported the Dodge abandoned in the street. Deputies set up containment in the area and requested assistance from a K9 and a drone.

Deputies located all four occupants of the Dodge. Two were found on a side street, while Corporal Terry and K9 Griff found the remaining two hiding in bushes outside a home. All four were determined to be juveniles, and the Dodge was reported stolen out of Forest Grove.

The Dodge was returned to the registered owner, and the juveniles were referred to the Washington County Juvenile Department.

If you witnessed this incident and have not spoken to investigators, please contact the Sheriff's Office through non-emergency dispatch referencing case number 50-25-14211.

Good morning,

Here is the current Kaiser Permanente statement about the 5-day OFNHP strike scheduled to begin tomorrow morning and last through Sunday morning. The statement references the national Alliance of Healthcare Unions, of which OFNHP is a member. 

I will share updated/new versions of our statement through Flash Alert as they are available.

As you are covering the strike at our hospitals and clinics this week, thank you in advance for only filming off of our property, to protect the privacy of our patients and staff. 

Thanks!
Debbie

Kaiser Permanente Statement 10.13.2025

Since May, we’ve been actively working with the Alliance of Health Care Unions to reach new national and local agreements in support of nearly 61,000 dedicated employees. At the heart of this negotiation is a dispute about wages.
 
A Strong, Comprehensive Offer
We’ve recognized our employees’ hard work and responded with a strong proposal that provides immediate benefits. Alliance-represented employees currently earn, on average, 16% more than peers elsewhere. Our latest offer increases their already above-market wages by an additional 21.5% over the four-year contract. The offer also enhances employees’ high-value medical plans and retiree benefits—benefits that have long made Kaiser Permanente an employer of choice. We value every member of our team and our history of collaboration with labor unions. 
 
The Alliance began bargaining seeking a 38% wage increase over four years and now demands 25%—a figure out of step with today’s economic realities and rising health care costs. This would dramatically increase the current $6.3 billion annual payroll and lead to higher rates for members and customers, with serious market implications. Our 21.5% offer will increase payroll for this group by nearly $2 billion in total by 2029. To support this level of increase, we’re reducing internal costs and optimizing operations. Anything beyond 21.5% will require us to further increase rates for our members and customers, at a time when health care costs are increasingly unaffordable and many are having to make the difficult choice to go without coverage. We have a responsibility to do the right thing for our employees and our members and customers.
 
Strike Is Unnecessary and Disruptive
We respect the Alliance and value their members—our employees—for the vital role they play caring for our 12.5 million members. A strike is unnecessary when a generous offer is on the table. It is designed to disrupt the lives of our patients—the very people we are all here to serve. 
 
Since May, we’ve worked to reach new national and local agreements—achieving 52 tentative agreements, holding over 900 local bargaining sessions, and reaching comprehensive agreements at 17 of 54 local tables. We’ve enhanced proposals, initiated mediation, and extended bargaining. Even after receiving 10-day strike notices, we continued negotiating, seeking agreement.
 
Unfortunately, the Alliance has made little meaningful progress. Despite our best efforts to reach a fair agreement that supports our employees and sustains high-quality, affordable care, some of the Alliance unions have called a strike that serves no one, least of all, our members and patients. Importantly, not all of the Alliance unions currently in negotiations will be taking part in the strike, those that do represent about 43,000 workers. Many of our staff have shared that they do not intend to take part in the strike.
 
We are actively preparing for a five-day strike in California, Oregon, and Hawaii from 7:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 14 to 7:00 a.m. Sunday, October 19. We expect normal operations to resume afterward.
 
Prepared to Maintain Care During Strike
For months, we’ve been preparing contingency plans to ensure members continue receiving safe, high-quality care if a strike occurs. During a strike, our hospitals, medical and dental offices and pharmacies will remain open. Members also have 24/7 access to same-day care through Get Care Now on our mobile app.
 
In some cases, we are shifting appointments to virtual care (phone, video, e-chat) and may need to reschedule certain appointments, elective surgeries, and procedures. Our facilities will be staffed by physicians, experienced managers, and trained staff, with added licensed contract professionals as needed. We are onboarding up to 7,600 nurses, clinicians, and other staff to work during the strike, the majority of whom have worked at Kaiser Permanente before. In addition, more than 1,000 of our employees have volunteered to be reassigned to work in strike locations. 
 
Members can find the latest updates on care impacts at kp.org.
 
We remain committed to bargaining in good faith for a fair agreement that balances fair pay with high-quality, affordable care. We will continue providing the care our members rely on while honoring employees and protecting patients.
 
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APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167.

To view the Applicant Review Committee's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve September 24, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Ziji Donahoo, DPSST No. 66742; ODOC/Oregon State Police

    Presented by Cindy Park

4. Juan Rios, DPSST No. 66172; ODOC/Oregon State Penitentiary

    Presented by Cindy Park

5. Davon Taylor, DPSST No. 66344; ODOC/Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution

    Presented by Cindy Park

6. Inquiry Closure Memos – Information Only

    Presented by Cindy Park

7. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – November 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Applicant Review Committee members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Nationally Recognized Artist, Douwe Blumberg, to Host Event Discussing New Art Installation

Blumberg’s newest sculpture, Confluence, will be installed on October 15^th in Happy Valley

Happy Valley, OR [October 13, 2025] – On Wednesday, October 15^th nationally renowned artist Douwe Blumberg will be in Happy Valley overseeing the installation of his latest artwork, Confluence. The sculpture features three birds, finished with different metals, swooping together and climbing up into the sky.

“A confluence can be the coming together – a meeting or gathering of peoples, cultures and ethnicities,” said Blumberg. “A confluence can mean the flowing together of waters, streams or rivers. Confluence can also mean the merging or joining of paths and trails. It also brings to mind the seamless joining and counterplay of the flight paths of birds spiraling skyward as they ride the rising air currents of an afternoon thermal.”

The Kentucky based artist has had pieces commissioned across the country as well as internationally. His most famous piece, America’s Response Monument, was dedicated in 2012 and commemorates Special Forces operations in Afghanistan during the opening days of Operation Enduring Freedom. The piece now overlooks the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City.

The October 15^th event will feature a conversation with the artist near the Confluence installation site. Members of the Happy Valley Public Art Committee, who selected the piece from over 250 submissions, as well as members of Happy Valley City Council will also be in attendance. Members of the community are encouraged to attend to learn more about the artist, the sculpture, and the work of the Public Art Committee.

“The location for this artwork was the historic entry point to Happy Valley, the confluence of roads bringing people into our community,” said Tom Ellis, Mayor of Happy Valley. “We’re thrilled to feature Mr. Blumberg’s work here where our residents will be able to admire it for years to come.”

Event Details:

·       What: Discussion with the artist Douwe Blumberg, on his piece Confluence

·       When: Wednesday, October 15^th at 4:00 pm

·       Where: Rebstock Park - 12915 SE King Road, Happy Valley, OR 97086

·       Interview Opportunities: Artist Douwe Blumberg, members of the Happy Valley Public Art Committee, Members of City Council

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Stanford historian Ana Raquel Minian to deliver keynote on immigration and resilience; Mano a Mano honored with Peacemaker of the Year Award

Salem, Ore., September 17, 2025 — Chemeketa Community College will host the 2025 Salem Peace Lecture, Holding on to Hope: Navigating the Crisis of Detention and Deportation, featuring acclaimed historian Ana Raquel Minian, Ph.D., of Stanford University. The event will take place this Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Chemeketa Auditorium, Building 6, on the Salem Campus. Admission is free and open to the public.

Dr. Minian, a professor of history at Stanford University and award-winning author of In the Shadow of Liberty: The Invisible History of Immigrant Detention, is widely recognized for her groundbreaking scholarship on immigration, borderlands, and the human consequences of detention and deportation policies. Her work highlights the lived experiences of immigrant communities, blending rigorous research with compelling narratives that illuminate the challenges—and resilience—of those navigating migration systems.

In addition to the keynote lecture, the evening will include the presentation of the 2025 Peacemaker of the Year Award to Mano a Mano, a local nonprofit recognized for its compassionate leadership and creative programming that uplift Latino/a/x community members.

“We are honored to welcome Dr. Minian to Chemeketa, and to celebrate the inspiring work of Mano a Mano,” said Jon Mathis, Ph.D., Executive Director of Chemeketa’s Bridging Institute. “This event exemplifies Chemeketa’s mission to create a place of peace, belonging, and opportunity for all members of our community.”

The Salem Peace Lecture is one of the community’s most anticipated annual events, offering reflection, dialogue, and recognition of those who advance peace and justice. Parking is available on campus, and guests are encouraged to review Chemeketa’s campus map for directions to Building 6.

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For more than 55 years, Chemeketa Community College has committed itself to transforming lives and our community through exceptional learning experiences in the Mid-Willamette Valley. As the second largest multi-campus district in Oregon, Chemeketa serves 17,500 students annually at its Salem and Yamhill Valley campuses, as well as Brooks, Eola, Winema, Dallas, Woodburn and Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI).

Chemeketa Community College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and educational institution.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Monday, October 13, 2025

BEND, OR — Just below our feet, there is a universe that is busy, active and alive. On Saturday, October 18, the High Desert Museum invites visitors of all ages to explore the interconnected, underground world of soil in the original exhibition, Soil Alive!

Soil is made from minerals, air, water and decaying bits of organisms. But soil is not just a bed of crunched up rocks and other materials. Soil is alive.

Presented in English and Spanish, Soil Alive! is a family-friendly, interactive exhibition, taking visitors on a subterranean journey. On the way, they will encounter mycorrhizal networks, burrowing animals and microscopic organisms.

“Soil Alive! beckons visitors underground to explore a world that is hidden from sight,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “We wanted to convey the excitement of this habitat, so people learn that soil is a living, breathing and busy world that is integral to the health and stability of our ecosystem.”

Like fingerprints, every region’s soil is unique. Many factors inform a soil’s individual characteristics. These factors can range from volcanic eruptions and historic floods to droughts, snowfall and wildfires. Soil is also the result of living organisms, which perform a delicate exchange of moisture, nutrients and sugar. 

It’s this idea that Soil Alive! hopes to communicate above any other — that healthy soils are the result of thousands of relationships. These relationships are seemingly endless: between ponderosa pine tree roots and mycorrhizal networks; between pygmy rabbits and sagebrush shrubs; between farmers and ground-nesting bees; between soil crusts and native grasses; between beavers and cattails. The relationships transform simple dirt into living soil. 

Located in the Brooks Gallery of the Museum, the exhibition will be organized into four sections, or landscapes: the Ponderosa Pine Forest, Sagebrush Steppe, Alfalfa Seed Field and Flooded Wetlands. Each of the landscapes has a Soil Ambassador, a cute creature who welcomes visitors and guides them on their underground adventure. The Beaver, Alkali Bee, Pygmy Rabbit and Pogie the Fungus will show off their homes in the High Desert.

Dim light and amplified soil sounds recorded from underground such as clicks and rustling will greet families as they enter a tunnel-like passageway, giving the illusion that they are traveling underground. Visitors will learn about the four landscapes, meet the ambassador animals and discover different types of soil before venturing deeper into the gallery.

The exhibition itself is packed with interactive, hands-on elements that allow visitors to see, touch, hear and even smell life underground. From soil recipes and smell stations to digital experiences, families will learn that no matter what the individual characteristics may be, all soils have one important thing in common: They form the foundation of the West’s ecosystems.  

In the Sagebrush Steppe, a giant magnifying glass can be pointed at a wall-sized digital illustration, enlarging soil areas and illuminating organisms living in the biotic crust or living layer of the soil. Information bubbles pop into view as the Pygmy Rabbit, who lives below the sagebrush plants, explains that while the soil is dry, it grows some of the rabbit’s favorite foods including shrubs and flowers.

Over in the Ponderosa Pine Forest, Pogie the Fungus will encourage visitors to help mycelium “arms” connect their home in one root system to a ponderosa sapling nearby using hand gestures. The motion-activated, wall-sized feature illustrates how the fungi give the tree nutrients and water in return for sugar. As a result, the sapling and mycelium flourish on screen.

In addition to showcasing the wonders of this subterranean community, Soil Alive! digs into the issue of invasive species such as the jumping worm and cheatgrass.

Jumping worms eat the top layer of the soil, turning the soil’s texture into coffee grounds, which causes the soil to lose moisture. Invasive plants such as cheatgrass have shallow roots, stealing moisture from the soil’s top layer. Visitors will learn how to protect and conserve soil, including staying on designated trails, growing native plants and letting those pesky piles of fallen leaves become homes for small mammals and insects.

Soil Alive! promises to be a captivating and enlightening experience for Museum visitors of all ages, offering a glimpse into a subterranean universe full of activity and brimming with life.  

Soil Alive! is open through March 29, 2026. The exhibition is made possible by the Oregon Invasive Species Council, the Oregon Department of Agriculture, the Visit Central Oregon Future Fund, the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation and Gold 107.7 FM, with support from Waypoint Hotel.

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 and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, 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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On October 10th at approximately 1:45 PM, deputies with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a reported vehicle crash involving two vehicles near mile 12 on Elk City Road in rural Lincoln County. Early information received indicated after the vehicle collision gun fire was exchanged between both vehicles involved.

Partner law enforcement agencies from the from the surrounding area responded to the evolving incident.

At approximately 2:01 PM, Officers with Toledo Police Department located Jacob Barnhart near mile post 12 on Elk City Road with his vehicle. The Officer provided first aid for a gun shot wound to the leg and requested helicopter transport. Mr. Barnhart was safely transported to Eddyville where he was transferred into the medical helicopter and flown to Good Samaritan Hospital-Corvallis. Mr. Barnhart was able to provide vehicle and suspect description of the other party involved.

Law enforcement agencies continued to investigate and search a wide regional area for the described vehicle and reported male driver.

At approximately 5:45 PM, law enforcement received information of an additional report for a gunshot wound in the 100 block of Jacobson Rd, rural Lincoln County. This location was in close proximity to the original traffic crash and shooting. Law enforcement members arrived and contacted Dyllan Nicholas Thompson age 27 of Toledo, OR and learned he was injured from a reported gunshot wound to the leg. Mr. Thompson reported he was involved in a vehicle crash earlier in the day while traveling on Elk City Rd. Mr. Thompson was assessed and medical attention was recommended for his injury. Mr. Thompson was detained and transported to Samaritan Pacific Community Hospital in Newport where was treated for his injury. Mr. Thompson was interviewed by investigators and subsequently arrested for Assault in the First Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

This incident remains under investigation. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like anyone who was traveling or in the area of Elk City Road on October 10 between 1-2PM to contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0777.

The Lincoln County Sheriffs Office was assisted by the Oregon State Police, Toledo Police, Newport Police, Lincoln City Police, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Philomath Police and the Lincoln County Major Crime Team which includes members of the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office.

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On 10/10/2025 at 7:21pm Kelso Police officers, assisted by the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office, Longview Police Department, Woodland Police Department, and the Washington State Patrol, responded to South Kelso Drive near Alma Drive in Kelso, Washington, for a vehicle versus pedestrian collision. The pedestrian, a 47 year old male kelso resident, died at the scene. The driver, identified as 45 year old Larry Hole of Kelso, remained on scene and cooperated with the investigation. Mr Hole was arrested and booked into the Cowlitz County Jail for Vehicular Homicide, Driving Under the Influence, and Knowingly Possess Controlled Substance. This incident is still under investigation.  The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin by the Cowlitz County Coroner's office.

The Vancouver Police are seeking assistance locating a missing adult, Miguel Angel Bagley. Bagley is potentially medically endangered. Bagley is 71 years old, 5'8 and 210lbs with brown eyes and has a tan complexion. He was last seen in the area of the 1800 Blk of St. Johns Blvd on 10/08/2025. If you have information on Bagley's whereabouts please call 911.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Military Department sponsored the 2025 Oregon Labor Summit today at the Oregon Army National Guard Aviation Support Facility in Salem, bringing together service members, educators, industry partners, and community leaders to strengthen connections between military training and civilian workforce opportunities.

The Labor Summit served as a bridge between the Oregon National Guard and Oregon's business community, showcasing how military training translates directly into valuable workforce skills through hands-on demonstrations and static displays highlighting the diverse specialties available in the Guard.

Senior leaders and service members from both the Oregon Army and Air National Guard participated in presentations demonstrating the jobs, skills, and benefits the National Guard offers to employers in the local business community.

"This summit links education and workforce pipelines with Oregon National Guard talent, turning military training into apprenticeships and career pathways that bolster Oregon's economy and communities," said Col. Philip DeMontigny during his remarks to attendees.

The event featured extensive participation from career and technical education organizations, with Skills USA and the Oregon Career and Technical Education Student Leadership Foundation playing significant roles alongside the Oregon Department of Education. Representatives from Career Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), including Skills USA, Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA), DECA, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), and the Technology Student Association (TSA), attended the summit.

Industry partners from healthcare, construction, aviation, logistics, information technology, and public service sectors explored how Guard members bring valuable leadership skills, technical training, and strong work ethics to civilian workplaces.

Gov. Tina Kotek addressed attendees, emphasizing the partnership between the state and private sector in supporting Guard members. "Beyond supporting careers and filling critical workforce gaps, we are proving that serving your country and building your future are not separate paths. They are part of the same mission, and I fully support that," Kotek said.

Jeff Rhoades from the Oregon Department of Education's Office of Education, Innovation & Improvement also spoke, thanking educators and CTSO advisors for their dedication to empowering students and preparing them for future-ready careers.

The Oregon Military Department's sponsorship of the Labor Summit underscores its commitment to community partnerships and workforce development, aligning with the organization's strategic vision to be "the partner of choice within our communities, state, nation, and internationally," said Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General of Oregon.

Released B-Roll Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/984745/oregon-military-department-sponsors-2025-labor-summit

Released Photos:

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Col. (promotable) Philip DeMontigny addresses attendees during the 2025 Oregon Labor Summit at the Oregon Army National Guard Aviation Support Facility in Salem, Ore., Oct. 10, 2025. The summit brought together service members, educators, industry partners, and community leaders to showcase how military training translates into civilian workforce skills. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Christopher Dahmen shows industry partners a system the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and High-Yield Explosives Enhanced Response Force Package (CERFP) member uses to enhance the team's situational awareness in responding to an event during the 2025 Oregon Labor Summit at the Oregon Army National Guard Aviation Support Facility in Salem, Ore., Oct. 10, 2025. The summit brought together service members, educators, industry partners, and community leaders to showcase how military training translates into civilian workforce skills. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Mahnesmith, an infantryman, helps Coral Smith with the Oregon Department of Corrections recruitment try on a combat load of equipment during the 2025 Oregon Labor Summit at the Oregon Army National Guard Aviation Support Facility in Salem, Ore., Oct. 10, 2025. The summit brought together service members, educators, industry partners, and community leaders to showcase how military training translates into civilian workforce skills. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Participants try out the latest white phosphorus night vision devices in a darkened room during the 2025 Oregon Labor Summit at the Oregon Army National Guard Aviation Support Facility in Salem, Ore., Oct. 10, 2025. The summit brought together service members, educators, industry partners, and community leaders to demonstrate how military training translates into skills relevant to the civilian workforce. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek addresses attendees during the 2025 Oregon Labor Summit at the Oregon Army National Guard Aviation Support Facility in Salem, Ore., Oct. 10, 2025. The summit brought together service members, educators, industry partners, and community leaders to showcase how military training translates into civilian workforce skills. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek shakes hands with U.S. Army Sgt. Michael Martin, a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and High-Yield Explosives Enhanced Response Force Packag (CERFP) team member, in front of an equipment display during the 2025 Oregon Labor Summit at the Oregon Army National Guard Aviation Support Facility in Salem, Ore., Oct. 10, 2025. The summit brought together service members, educators, industry partners, and community leaders to showcase how military training translates into civilian workforce skills. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Participants gather for a group photo inside the hangar during the 2025 Oregon Labor Summit at the Oregon Army National Guard Aviation Support Facility in Salem, Ore., Oct. 10, 2025. The summit brought together service members, educators, industry partners, and community leaders to showcase how military training translates into civilian workforce skills. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

DOGAMI and USGS to collect geophysical data in northeastern Oregon

Baker City, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) and the U.S. Geologic Survey (USGS) have contracted with Merrick-Surdex JV and New-Sense Geophysics to collect airborne geophysical data over portions of northeastern Oregon and western Idaho. This airborne geophysical[1] data is being collected as part of the USGS’s Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (EarthMRI) to support research into Oregon’s critical minerals, water resources, and geologic hazards.

Who is conducting these surveys?

DOGAMI is an independent agency of the state of Oregon. DOGAMI develops maps, reports, earth science data, and other geographical information to help Oregonians understand the state’s unique geologic setting, geologic history, manage its natural resources, and prepare for natural hazards. Learn more about DOGAMI’s role in Oregon and explore geologic publications at the agency website, https://www.oregon.gov/dogami.

The USGS is a U.S. federal agency that works to provide objective and impartial science to resource managers, emergency response, and the public. EarthMRI is an initiative within the USGS Mineral Resources Program that aims to modernize mapping of the Nation’s surface and subsurface to deliver high-quality data to advance the understanding of the Nation’s geology and mineral resources, and to inform decisions about how the Nation will meet its evolving needs. https://www.usgs.gov/news/state-news-release/media-alert-low-level-flights-image-geology-over-portions-blue-mountains

When and where will these surveys be conducted?

The geophysical data collection flights will be conducted over portions of the Blue Mountains and adjacent areas in northeastern Oregon and western Idaho. Flights began in early October and will continue until snowfall begins to impact data quality. Flights will resume in the Spring of 2026 and continue through the Summer of 2026.

Geophysical data will be collected over portions of northeastern Oregon and western Idaho.

Geophysical data will be collected by a helicopter with instruments on a forward mounted boom.

How will DOGAMI use this data?

Airborne geophysical data is essential information needed to produce new high-resolution geologic maps, better understand geologic hazards such as earthquakes, and inventory and manage natural resources, such as groundwater and critical minerals. Northeast Oregon is a key focus area for DOGAMI to conduct geologic mapping due to the importance of conservation and sustainability of water resources and the strategic need to identify critical minerals necessary for modern technologies, economies, and national security.

High-resolution geophysical data from the Pendleton area of northeast Oregon was used by DOGAMI to create detailed geologic maps showing the distribution of faults. See McClaughry and Azzopardi (2023) for more information. https://pubs.oregon.gov/dogami/gms/p-GMS-129.htm The upper image here shows fault lines mapped using a total-field high-resolution aeromagnetic anomaly map shown in the lower image.

Will these surveys cause any disturbances on the ground, and will any additional information over the target areas be collected during data acquisition?

• No. All sensors used in the collection of data for these surveys are passive recording devices with no emissions that pose a risk to humans, animals, or plant life.
• No photographic or video images will be collected during survey operations.
• Aircraft will be flown by experienced pilots specially trained and approved for low-level flying.

###

Oct. 10, 2025

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@state.or.us

Oregon Cannabis Commission meets via Zoom Oct. 15

What: A Zoom meeting for the Oregon Cannabis Commission.

Agenda: The full agenda will be available at www.healthoregon.org/cannabiscommission.

When: Wednesday, Oct. 15, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Zoom Meeting. Members of the public may join remotely by phone at 1-669-254-5252; Meeting ID: 160 016 6803 Passcode: 721911

Background: The Oregon Cannabis Commission was established in the 2017 legislative session through HB 2198. The commission consists of the state health officer or designee and an eight member-panel appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the senate. The commission provides advice to Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission regarding Oregon Administrative Rules that govern medical cannabis as well as retail cannabis as it pertains to patients and caregivers.  Additionally, the commission is tasked with developing a long-term strategic plan for ensuring that cannabis will remain a therapeutic and affordable option for patients and monitoring federal laws, regulations, and policies regarding cannabis.

Visit www.Healthoregon.org/cannabiscommission for more information.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written material in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Megan Lockwood at 503-621-4042, 711 TTY or .lockwood@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">megan.r.lockwood@oha.oregon.gov at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is requesting applications for two openings on the Mosquito Control District Board of Trustees.

The terms for the positions begin on Jan. 2, 2026, and end Dec. 31, 2027.

The Board of Trustees oversees the work of the Clark County Mosquito Control District. The board establishes policy, manages expenditures, and approves contracts for services.

The Board of Trustees is comprised of one member from each city or town in Clark County and three at-large members appointed by the Clark County Council. 

The board meets on the second Tuesday of February, April, June, August, October and December. The meetings begin at 7 pm and are currently being held in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual attendance available.

Applicants should send a résumé and letter of interest to Jake Goodwin, County Manager’s Office, PO Box 5000, Vancouver 98666-5000. Applications also can be sent by email to jake.goodwin@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, Oct. 31, 2025

For more information, visit the Board of Trustees website.

Vancouver, WA – October 12, 2025 – Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of serious illness and death among women—especially among women of color and those in rural communities. To raise awareness and funds for breast health education, and funds for early detection, financial assistance, and emotional/psychological support programs, Pink Lemonade Project has been named the beneficiary of the 19th Annual Girlfriends Run/Walk by WHY Racing Events at the scenic Vancouver Waterfront.

More than 2,000 participants will gather to celebrate, honor, and pay tribute to those affected by breast cancer. Funds raised will directly support Pink Lemonade Project programs serving patients and families across Southwest Washington and Oregon.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, breast cancer screening rates have dropped by more than 10%. Meanwhile, more young women are being diagnosed with aggressive forms of the disease. Communities of color and rural populations are being disproportionately affected.

Today, 1 in 7 women in the Northwest will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime, and 1% of men will also face the disease. Nationally, an estimated 42,000–48,000 women will die from breast cancer this year alone.

“The need for breast health education and programs has never been greater,” said Susan Stearns, Chief Executive Officer of Pink Lemonade Project. “We are evolving and growing to fill critical gaps by working alongside healthcare systems, community organizations, public health organizations, faith communities, and so many more to improve access to care, survivorship, and quality of life for those impacted. Today, people need more support than ever through diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and beyond.” Since 2020, demand for Pink Lemonade Project’s services has risen by 292%.

“Our partnership with Pink Lemonade Project has personal meaning for me,” said Karissa Schoene, owner of WHY Racing Events. “The Girlfriends event was created to honor and support my mother, Joleen Skarberg, who was diagnosed with breast cancer 19 years ago. She continues to run every year with her daughters, sisters, nieces, cousins, and girlfriends.”

The Girlfriends event offers a Half Marathon, 10K, and 6K run/walk. Participants are encouraged to sign up and donate at whyracingevents.com/girlfriends-run/.

About Pink Lemonade Project

Pink Lemonade Project, founded in 2010 by Drs. Allen & Cassie Gabriel, educates, empowers, and supports all communities affected by breast cancer. The purpose is to provide the region, newly diagnosed patients, survivors, those living with Metastatic Breast Cancer, and their families with programs and services to enable them to navigate their breast cancer journey. Pink Lemonade Project supported 4,226 people last year with a budget of $1.2 million in revenue. Learn more at pinklemonadeproject.org

VANCOUVER, Wash.– The VA Portland Health Care System unveiled its newly restored iconic Vietnam War-era helicopter, “Lady Bell,” at a ceremony held at the Vancouver VA campus, Sept. 25.

Lady Bell, a UH-1 Iroquois “Huey,” is believed to have first served in Vietnam with Company D, 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion.

She flew a total of three years and one month in Vietnam before returning to Fort Rucker, Alabama, in February 1972. Withdrawn from active duty in March 1973, she later served with the Wyoming National Guard and Kentucky National Guard before transferring to the Washington State Department of Natural Resources for firefighting duty.

In June and July, Lady Bell underwent an extensive restoration that included cleaning, inspection, sanding, refinishing, and re-making with insignia reflecting her service history. While not technically accurate, she now carries both Army and Navy markings, signifying her new role as a medical evacuation aircraft tribute stationed at a VA Medical Center.

“When I heard Lady Bell was in need of attention, I was thrilled to give back what had been given to me during my time in the Navy in service to others,” said James Donnelly, architect and healthcare engineer with VA Portland Health Care System. “I have been around planes much of my life because my dad was in aviation, so I have a sentimentality, but mostly I wanted to help those who see displays such as the Lady Bell as a beacon of hope in healing old wounds.”

The UH-1 Iroquois “Huey,” produced from 1956 to 1987, is one of the most iconic military helicopters in U.S. history. With more than 60 years of service, the Huey carried soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen into battle, evacuated the wounded, and brought many home. The restored Lady Bell now stands as a memorial to those who served in Vietnam and beyond.

Donnelly’s restoration effort was supported by a team of VA Portland employees who volunteered their time and energy. What began as Donnelly sharing his expertise became a labor of love. “Many people made many sacrifices, specifically in Vietnam,” Donnelly said. “Medevac aircraft like Lady Bell served as a beacon of hope to those most in need.”

Media: Here is a raw interview with Eugene Police Chief Chris Skinner that you are free to use. We ask as a courtesy that you not run the contents without editing.

https://vimeo.com/1126300062/82f7f9c970Interview

On October 6, a home in the Bethel area belonging to Asian community members was burglarized during the daytime while occupants were working at their Eugene business. Case (25-16245). Eugene Police have been dedicating substantial, ongoing resources to investigating similar crimes that appear to be the work of a group of foreign nationals.

The investigation revealed a brief video that captured a person posing to be a pizza delivery driver shortly before all cameras malfunctioned simultaneously. 

Investigators were led to a local pizzeria that happened to be near the victim’s place of business.  Additional footage was located that showed the suspect and the possible involved vehicle. Detectives uploaded the vehicle into the ALPR system and found it had travelled in the area of the burglary on the day the crime took place. 

With sustained investigative effort, detectives began searching for the vehicle. The system revealed hits on the vehicle in Eugene.  Combining a great deal of hard work and some luck, detectives were able to eventually locate the suspect vehicle in the afternoon of October 8 in south Eugene.

EPD detectives watched the vehicle and the following day, October 9, detectives followed it north to several other cities including Corvallis, Salem, and Keizer where it was joined by two other vehicles. 

ALPR access from multiple jurisdictions was crucial in confirming the presence and locations of the suspect vehicles at various times that day. 

While maintaining observation of the vehicles and suspects, one vehicle was believed to have committed a residential burglary in west Salem.  EPD detectives aided Salem Police with the initial investigation and the two agencies worked together.

Detectives traced the suspects to the 2400 block of Skyline Boulevard in Eugene and with the assistance of patrol resources, monitored the location until a search warrant could be submitted to a local judge.

The search warrant was granted.  and on October 9, Eugene Police SWAT served the search warrant. At the initial announcement of the warrant service, at least seven people fled the residence but were all eventually apprehended. During this, a phone alert went out to the area advising residents to shelter in place.

EPD Investigators and analysis work have confirmed all four known suspect vehicles matched the same timing and path of travel through neighboring states before arriving in Oregon. ALPR technology has been instrumental in identifying these multi-state crime groups. 

“In this particular investigation the ALPR technology was a critical investigative tool in providing a turning point to help solve this case,” said Eugene Police Chief Chris Skinner. “This is an example of how this technology can serve victims of crime in a more effective and efficient way. The burglaries affecting Asian business owners and their families throughout Eugene and other Oregon jurisdictions has been a focal point for our police department and we are so pleased that we were able to bring this to a resolution.”

The investigation remains active. Additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.

Arrested for Burglary in the First Degree and Conspiracy to Commit Burglary in the First Degree and lodged at Lane County Jail were:

27-year-old Steven Alexander Quirogasolano

31-year-old Robinson Camacho Rodriguez

26-year-old William Steven Rodriguez

24-year-old Denison Martinez

27-year-old Jesson Quintero

44-year-old Jhon Alexander Quintero

24-year-old Jhon Quintero

PREVIOUS NEWS RELEASE

October 8, 2025

EPD continues to double down on Burglary ring targeting residential homes

The Eugene Police Property Crimes Unit continues to dedicate detectives and resources to investigating a pervasive burglary series that has targeted residential properties owned by members of the Asian community.  The department is prioritizing public awareness and safety as we are investigating a new, possibly connected burglary of a home in the Bethel area that occurred in the afternoon of October 6.

The new reported burglary in Bethel appears to be connected to a recent string of residential burglaries involving victims within the Asian community. Eugene Police immediately assigned a detective to the most recent case.  Detectives are actively following up on leads and coordinating with other law enforcement agencies.  

Since late 2023, investigators believe approximately 21 Eugene burglaries are the work of an organized group. The suspects, as in previous cases, appear to be foreign nationals.  Similar crimes are occurring across the United States and in multiple jurisdictions within the state of Oregon. Eugene Police detectives have made successful past arrests; some of the arrestees have subsequently been linked to similar crimes in other jurisdictions.

There is information suggesting a new, similar crime group may be operating in Oregon. Suspects are described as screening or surveilling potential victims, then breaking into homes while residents are at work.  Reporting methods include pretending to make deliveries (pizza, food, etc.), posing as gardeners or delivery drivers, or wearing high-visibility attire. Some reports indicate use of signal jammers, disconnecting Wi-Fi, cutting power, or turning breakers off.  Burglaries most often occur through rear entrance, with safes, money and jewelry, and other valuables stolen. 

The department is urging residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity.  We would also like to remind the community of the key crime prevention tips (previously provided, below):

EPD Community Engagement Team offers these additional prevention tips:

• Lock all windows and doors. Use deadbolts on doors that have them
• Install surveillance cameras that will notify you in real time of criminal activity
• Use timers on TVs and lights while away
• Close blinds when away from home and leave exterior lights on at night
• Make the home appear occupied when away or arrange to have someone stay at your house while gone
• Arrange mutual aid with your neighbors, keeping an eye on each other’s properties while you are gone
• Also, schedule vacation house checks while gone. https://www.eugene-or.gov/Search?searchPhrase=Home%20Vacation%20Check%20Application&pageNumber=1&perPage=10&departmentId=-1
• Don’t store large amounts of cash at home. Some criminals have been known to work together and steal large safes. If you have a safe, ensure it is mounted properly and securely
• Be aware of suspicious persons or vehicles around your neighborhood or at your place of business
• Schedule a free Home Vacation Check while away
• Schedule a Home Safety Assessment with the Eugene Police Department’s Community Engagement Team – Use the Eugene Police Community Engagement Team webpage, type in your  address in the widget tool to find your specialist. https://www.eugene-or.gov/944/Community-Engagement-Team

Report ALL non-emergency crimes and suspicious activity to the police at 541-682-5111.

You can also report crimes online at https://epd.mypdconnect.com/

October 10, 2025

Portland, OR- The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office is sending letters to more than a thousand Portland area victims who may have been sex trafficked on the website Backpage.com and its sister website CityXGuide.

The site launched in 2004, focused mostly on classified ads. But over time, the majority of its revenue came from its ‘adult services’ section. Law enforcement investigators considered it one of the largest online prostitution sites in the world, grossing an estimated $500-million-dollars from the sexual exploitation of countless victims.

In 2018 the federal government seized the site and shut it down. Two of the site’s owners were sentenced to 10 years in prison, a third was sentenced to five years prison. 

The government also seized the assets of the site including bitcoin, which was used as payment for sex trafficking related advertisements and posts. The Department of Justice is now using the money and assets to help survivors heal.

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Glen (JR) Ujifusa, who runs MCDA’s Human Trafficking Division, is spearheading the effort to let local survivors know there may be money available for them to help pay for healing.

Under his direction, the office is reaching out to individuals who may have been exploited and victimized. We are creating a page on our website with helpful links and sending out letters with information on how to apply for the money along with a list of other resources to help them.

He said: “Our office and the Human Trafficking Team strives to be victim-centered and trauma informed. This proactive effort is just one of the ways we try to bring some justice to victims of trafficking. Backpage affected thousands of individuals and was one of the main ways victims were trafficked between 2004 and 2018. We hope we can reach those individuals and provide them with the support they need to help them receive some compensation. We know this does not compare to the physical and mental trauma that has been done. We will continue to support victims of trafficking and work to hold traffickers and buyers accountable for their crimes.” 

Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez said, “I am proud of the work of our office to support victims and hope these funds help victims going forward.”

The name of the federal government program that will pay money to survivors is a bit awkward  but we are including it here so the public will know it is real.  It is called Backpage Remission.

In addition, on our webpage we will include a link that allows victims to connect with attorneys providing free legal help with this process. 

It is our sincere hope that everyone who was trafficked on Backpage will apply. Below is a link to the federal webpage which explains the program in greater detail.

https://www.backpageremission.com/en

Need free legal help? Click the link below:

https://www.backpageremissionnetwork.org/

This is a link to the government’s announcement on Backpage.com remission:

https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/us-department-justice-announces-compensation-process-victims-trafficked-through-backpagecom#:~:text=To%20date%2C%20Backpage.com%2C,is%20Feb%2C%202%2C%202026.

                                                        ###MCDA###

UPDATE:

Sheriff Michelle Duncan is releasing further information regarding the search of the North Santiam River near the Mill City bridge for the missing 18-year-old male.  The male is now being identified as Karandeep Singh.  Although Singh had several people on scene that were close to him and were kept updated on search efforts, he was not known to have family in the United States.  Deputies worked with the Consulate of India who were able to notify the family abroad.

Deputies investigating the case learned that Singh was last seen the night before, October 7th, around 10:00 p.m. walking with several friends near the North Santiam River.  He had been drinking and said he was going to get into the river.  Singh did not know how to swim but had been in the shallow waters of the river before.  His friends tried to stop him, but he jumped in the river in an area that was much deeper than where he had been previously.  Two of his friends entered the river and tried to save him but were unsuccessful and lost sight of him.  It was not until the next morning, on October 8th, that his friends reported the incident to a third person, and it was eventually reported to law enforcement.  Part of the delay was due to a language barrier.

Recovery efforts for Singh began the morning of October 9th, when the Water Rescue Team divers began their search of the river where the male was believed to have entered.  The team was unable to get a traditional boat to this area, so three divers on a rescue watercraft searched the area, first with an underwater camera. Divers then dove areas they could not get to with the camera.  They searched under and around large boulders where the body could have been stuck.  The waters in this particular area are running very fast with a large amount of underwater debris and entanglement hazards, so the divers had to use extreme caution while conducting the search.  Before and during the search of the area with divers, multiple deputies from Linn and Marion County searched a larger area of the river with drones. 

Although search efforts have been reduced, deputies plan to continue with periodic drone flights and on-water search efforts by watercraft.  The Linn County Sheriff’s Office expresses their deepest sympathies for Singh’s family and friends.

Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports that on October 8, 2025, at approximately 12:00 p.m., the Linn County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a missing person near the edge of the Santiam River in Mill City.

Deputies responded to the area and contacted the witnesses. They learned that an 18-year-old male from Mill City was seen in the Santiam River. According to witnesses, he was pulled into the current and has not been seen since. Witnesses were unable to rescue the male as he was pulled under the water and did not surface.

With this information, multiple deputies began searching the surrounding area and riverbanks on foot, utilizing several drones to aid in the search. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office also assisted with aerial support using additional drones.

Today, multiple search teams are back on scene, including the Linn County Sheriff’s Office Water Rescue Team, ground search members, and drone operators, as efforts continue to locate the male. Sheriff’s Office divers are using underwater camera equipment to aid in their search for the male.

We are not releasing the name of the subject at this time as we are still attempting to locate the immediate family to update them on our efforts.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Linn County Sheriff’s Office at 541-967-3950.

Oct. 10, 2025

Contact: Franny White, 971-349-9539, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov (media inquiries)

Melisa Otrugman ugman@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">melisa.z.otrugman@oha.oregon.gov (meeting information or accommodation)

Sustainable Cost Growth Target for 2026-2030 Workgroup meets Oct. 16

What: The first meeting of a short-term workgroup tasked to review economic trend data and recommend what Oregon’s cost growth target -- a sustainable rate of health care cost growth that serves as a statewide goal to limit annual health care spending increases -- should be for 2026–2030.

When:  Thursday, October 16, 3 – 4:30 p.m.  

Where: This is a virtual meeting.

• Join by Zoom: Meeting ID: 160 701 2101; Passcode: 912607
• Join by Phone: One tap mobile
  • +16692545252,,1607012101 # US (San Jose) or
  • +16468287666,,1607012101 # US (New York)

Agenda:

• Welcome, Introductions
• Workgroup charge and processes
• Overview of Oregon’s Cost Growth Target Program
• Oregon’s cost growth trend relative to the target to-date
• How Oregon’s cost growth target was initially set
• Plan for meeting #2, next steps

Public Comment: There will not be a public comment period held at this meeting. To submit public comment about the cost growth target for 2026-2030 or the Workgroup, please email it to e.CostTarget@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">HealthCare.CostTarget@oha.oregon.gov.

All public comments received will be shared with the Workgroup and posted online.

For more information, please visit the Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target’s website.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Melisa Otrugman ugman@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">melisa.z.otrugman@oha.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

SEASIDE, Ore. – Oct. 10, 2025 – A body discovered on Seaside Beach early this morning has been identified as Wayne Wilson, 64, of Seaside. Wilson was reported missing the evening of Thursday, Oct. 9, prompting an overnight search effort by Seaside Police and Seaside Fire & Rescue.

At 7:37 a.m. this morning, Seaside dispatch received a report of a man found down on the beach near the Avenue A approach. First responders confirmed the individual, identified as Wilson, was deceased and called the Clatsop County Medicolegal Death Investigator to the scene to complete an examination.

Wilson was last seen at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Thursday near his residence in the area of N. Wahanna Road and Broadway Street in Seaside.

The City of Seaside wishes to thank Seaside Fire, Police, and Dispatch for their continual efforts on behalf of the community. The City also extends its gratitude to the community member who took the initiative to call SPD early this morning and report finding Wilson.

end of release

Stayton, Ore. – As of 12:01 am, October 12, 2025, the North Cascade District of the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) will terminate fire season and end regulated use for forestlands protected by the district, which includes Marion, Clackamas and Multnomah counties and portions of Linn County.

The end of fire season means property owners protected by ODF can burn residential yard debris and burn barrels without a permit. Fire officials caution that, even though fire season is over, they should remain vigilant in fire prevention efforts. This includes refraining from burning on dry, windy days and managing debris burn piles with water and a shovel. Also, never leave a debris burn unattended and make sure it is completely out when finished. 

Fire season requirements for industrial operations are also no longer in effect. However, the burning of slash resulting from forest harvesting operations requires a permit year-round. Check with your local ODF office before lighting a fire to stay safe and avoid escaped debris burns.

The Oregon Department of Forestry’s North Cascade District would like to thank all our landowners, forest operators, the public, and interagency partners for their efforts in fire prevention, detection, and suppression activities this season.

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
October 10, 2025

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER ANNOUNCES 2025 BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP AWARDS HONOREES

Celebrating Excellence in Business, Leadership, and Community Impact at The Heathman Lodge

VANCOUVER, Wash.  — The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Business & Leadership Awards, presented by Riverview Bank. These prestigious awards recognize outstanding businesses and leaders who have made meaningful contributions to the economic growth, vitality, and community spirit of Southwest Washington. 

2025 Award Recipients 

• Start-Up to Watch: OnPoint Removal Services 
  OnPoint Removal Services was honored as the Start-Up to Watch for quickly establishing itself as more than a service company. They have become a responsible partner in building a cleaner and more sustainable Southwest Washington. With a focus on sorting, recycling, and donating usable goods, OnPoint Removal Services demonstrates how business practices can directly support local nonprofits and families in need. Their early growth, reliability, and commitment to community stewardship set them apart. 

• Small Business Award: The Difference Boutique 
  The Difference received the Small Business Award for its dedication to empowering women through personalized styling, confidence-building, and community engagement. By spotlighting local artists and fostering connections beyond retail, The Difference has woven itself into Vancouver’s social fabric, partnering across industries to create lasting impact for clients and the broader community. 

• Large Business Award: Cascades Amphitheater (Live Nation Premium Experiences)
  Cascades Amphitheater earned the Large Business Award for elevating Southwest Washington’s cultural and economic landscape. By bringing world-class entertainment to the region, supporting local nonprofits, mentoring youth through programs like Music Forward, and fostering community engagement, Cascades Amphitheater demonstrates how a global organization can remain deeply rooted locally while driving both economic growth and social impact. 

• Statesperson of the Year: Rep. Kevin Waters (17th Legislative District) 
  Rep. Kevin Waters was recognized for his unique blend of business leadership and public service. A lifelong resident, Waters founded Backwoods Brewing and expanded it into a thriving company. He has served on multiple community boards, as Port of Skamania Commissioner, economic development manager, and now represents the 17th District in the Washington State Legislature. His dedication to economic vitality, public safety, and community values exemplifies the ideal of the Statesperson Award. 

• Manufacturer of the Year: Ryonet 
  Ryonet, a Vancouver-based screen printing supplier founded in 2004, has grown into a global leader in print manufacturing while remaining committed to the local community. Through brands such as Ryonet Manufacturing and Riley Hopkins, the company supports entrepreneurs worldwide and drives innovation in the printing industry, showcasing how a locally rooted manufacturer can have global impact. 

• First Citizen Award: David & Patricia Nierenberg 
  Philanthropists David and Patricia Nierenberg were recognized as the 2025 First Citizens for their extraordinary leadership, philanthropy, and long-standing service to the Vancouver community. Their $20 million support of PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center has expanded the Emergency Department and established the Community Health Hub, significantly improving access to healthcare. They have served on numerous local and national boards, championed education and animal welfare initiatives, and embody the vision and generosity celebrated by the First Citizen Award. 

“The Business & Leadership Awards highlight the creativity, dedication, and leadership that make our community thrive," said John McDonagh, President & CEO of the Greater Vancouver Chamber. "Each honoree, whether a business innovator, community advocate, or public servant, represents the talent and drive that keep Southwest Washington moving forward." 

The awards ceremony was held on October 9 at The Heathman Lodge and was live-streamed for a broader audience. The event was supported by generous sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor Riverview Bank, along with BBSI, Maddox Industrial Transformer, HAPO Community Credit Union, Alaska Airlines, PeaceHealth, Washington Trust Bank, WSU Vancouver, The Columbian, Perkins & Co, Opsahl Dawson, MacDonald-Miller Facility Solutions, and Touchmark. 

For more information on the awards and next year’s sponsorship opportunities, please contact the Chamber at Chamber@VancouverUSA.com" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(0, 79, 89);" target="_blank">YourChamber@VancouverUSA.com or visit https://www.vancouverusa.com/business-leadership-awards.  

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About the Business & Leadership Awards

Introduced in 2012, the Business & Leadership Awards honor outstanding businesses and individuals who exemplify the Greater Vancouver Chamber’s motto of "Moving Business Forward." For over a decade, the southwest Washington business community has celebrated excellence and leadership through these prestigious awards.

About First Citizen Award

Since 1939, the annual First Citizen Award has been presented to a Clark County resident who models the attributes of good citizenship through leadership, action, civic pride, and cultivates inclusive civic engagement practices. These are individuals who, through their business, volunteering, and philanthropic efforts, improve the lives of those in the community by serving first. For more information about the First Citizens through the years, visit:  https://www.vancouverusa.com/first-citizen-award-honorees.

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for more than 135 years through business advocacy, community building, education, and creating visibility for our members. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals, and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The GVC is the heart of Clark County’s business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate and prosperity for all. For more information, please visit VancouverUSA.com. 

Media Assets: 

• https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZPDz3iScbdRpBzMIO_Mq4jIaQ5iZp-vy?usp=sharing

Oct. 10, 2025

Media Contact: don@employ.oregon.gov">seth.c.gordon@employ.oregon.gov

MEDIA ADVISORY

Oregon Employment Department to host follow-up Unemployment Insurance Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) virtual meeting Oct. 13

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is proposing changes to three Oregon Administrative Rules related to Unemployment Insurance (UI). OED will host a second virtual Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) meeting via Zoom from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13, to gather input and recommendations on the proposed rule changes.

You are invited to attend the virtual meeting and can RSVP using the following link: UI Rules Advisory Committee Oct. 13 video conference.

OED has drafted changes to the following rules:

• 471-010-0105 (4) – Customer Information and Disclosure: General Disclosures
• 471-030-0050 (3) – Benefit Payments
• 471-030-0036 – Eligibility factors

The initial meeting was held virtually on Oct. 2, but the committee did not finish discussing proposed changes to 471-030-0036, which defines the weekly eligibility requirements for being able to work, available for work, and actively seeking work.

The meeting on Oct. 13 will focus primarily on proposed changes to section (5), subsection (d), which were not discussed at the initial meeting. These proposed changes are intended to clarify how OED will implement Senate Bill 916 (2025) and administer limited UI benefits to striking workers beginning in 2026.

More information, including the draft rule language, video of the first meeting, and upcoming meeting agenda are available on the OED administrative rules page.

Next steps:

• File proposed rules with Secretary of State: Oct. 24 (proposed)
• Public Comment Period: Nov. 4-Dec. 5
• Public Hearing (virtual): Nov. 19
• File final rules with Secretary of State: Dec. 26 (proposed)
• Rules become effective: January 4, 2026.

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The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov.

AMBOY, WASHINGTON – North Clark Historical Museum is in upper Amboy at 21416 NE 399^th St. in the renovated 1910 United Brethren Church. The Museum incorporated in 1988 and opened to the public in June of 2000.

Dates:  Friday, October 24^th and Saturday, October 25^th   

Time:   10:00 am until 4:00 pm.

Vendors will provide a variety of hand-crafted items for sale: greeting cards, ornaments, original oil paintings, aprons, baby bibs, journals, memory books, jewelry, woodburning & vinyl decals.  The Museum Store will be open for business. Stop by and find the perfect gift and/or home decor for the upcoming holidays from talented artists and craftspeople.

The vendors donate 10% of their sales to the Museum. The proceeds benefit the Museum’s development, maintenance, and operating expenses.

The museum is wheelchair accessible and has air conditioning. Admission is free. Donations are welcome.

Quilt raffle tickets will be available for “Creamsicle”, a beautiful quilt made by the Chelatchie Quilters. Tickets are $1.00 each. This is the annual fundraiser, and proceeds go to the Capital Improvement Fund, which is being accumulated for a new roof in 2-3 years.

For more information, please contact 360-247-5800 and leave a message or email museumnch88@gmail.com or check out the website at northclarkhistoricalmuseum.com

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The North Clark Historical Museum was founded in 1988 and is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors. The doors were opened in June of 2000. Mission Statement:   To preserve North Clark County’s natural and cultural history through collections and exhibits, and to sponsor educational programs and research opportunities for the enrichment of the public.

Salem, OR – The State Library Board will meet virtually 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, October 24, 2025.  This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact Jessica Sokoloff at jessica.sokoloff@slo.oregon.gov. See the agenda below.

Questions or concerns can be addressed to Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian at 503-378-4367 or nelisen@slo.oregon.gov">wendy.cornelisen@slo.oregon.gov. Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested 48 hours before the meeting; notice 72 hours before the meeting is preferred.  Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in an alternate format 72 hours before the meeting.  Requests may be made to Jessica Sokoloff at jessica.sokoloff@slo.oregon.gov.     

October 24, 2025

Virtual

Anne-Marie Deitering, Chair

Agenda

9:00 a.m.         Approval of the Minutes – July 25 Meeting                                        Deitering

9:05                 Public Comment                                                                            

9:10                 Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Hearing                                    Deitering

9:20                 Report of the Board Chair and Members                                          Deitering

9:50                 Report of the State Librarian                                                             Cornelisen

10:00               Budget Report                                                                                   Cornelisen

10:10               Quarterly Statistics                                                                            Cornelisen

10:20               Annual Performance Progress Report (APPR)                                 Cornelisen     

10:30               Break                                                              

10:45               LSTA Council Nominations                                                               Nielsen

10:50               Oregon Intellectual Freedom Clearinghouse Report (OIFC)            Ottum

11:15               Annual Strategic Plan Report                                                            Cornelisen

11:25               Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Adoption                                   Deitering

11:45               Board Meeting Logistics                                                                    Deitering

Noon               Adjournment                                                                                      Deitering

Any person may address the State Library Board on any topic for up to 3 minutes. The State Library Board does not generally engage in dialog with those making comments but may refer any questions or issues raised to the State Librarian.

NOTE: The times of all agenda items are approximate and subject to change.