FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 19, 2025

City of Vancouver Fire Department Welcomes New Fire Engine with Traditional “Push-In” Ceremony at Station 6

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The City of Vancouver Fire Department proudly celebrated the arrival of its newest fire engine with a time-honored “Push-In” ceremony at Fire Station 6 on November 17. Fire personnel gathered to officially welcome the state-of-the-art apparatus into service. This marks the second new fire engine Vancouver Fire has placed into service this year.

The new engine, manufactured by KME, a member of the REV Group, represents a significant investment in public safety and emergency response capabilities for the Vancouver community. Equipped with advanced technology, modern safety systems, and enhanced operational features, the engine will support firefighters in delivering faster, safer, and more effective emergency services.

The “Push-In” tradition dates back to the 1800s, when fire companies operated horse-drawn steam engines. After returning from calls, firefighters would unhitch the horses—who could not back the equipment into the station—and physically push the engine into the bay. Today, fire departments across the nation continue the practice as a symbolic tribute to the profession’s heritage.

“Today’s ceremony connects us to our history while marking an exciting moment for our department and community,” said Captain Egan. “This new engine enhances our ability to protect lives and property, and the ‘Push-In’ honors the generations of firefighters who built the traditions we proudly uphold.”

Firefighters from Station 6, along with expert emergency vehicle technician mechanics from the department’s fleet shop at Fire Station 5, participated in pushing the engine into its bay, marking its official entry into service. The event also recognized the dedication of Vancouver’s fire personnel and the continued support of residents and city leadership.

“This engine is more than a piece of equipment—it’s a reflection of our community’s commitment to safety and resilience. Today we are happy to have assistance from our brothers who work in the shops at Fire Station 5 and maintain our fleet of emergency vehicles. We could not perform our jobs to the consistency that we do without the tireless effort of the expert mechanics in our shops who maintain our vehicles to the highest level possible. They are an integral part of our firefighting family and help us in delivering our services,” Captain Egan added.

The City of Vancouver Fire Department extends its gratitude to the community members and city leaders whose ongoing support makes advancements like this possible.

Media Contact:

City of Vancouver Fire Department
Public Information Office
Phone: (360) 869-3914
Email: cityfirepios@cityofvancouver.us
Website: www.cityofvancouver.us/departments/fire-department/

UPDATE: Shayla has been located and is safe. The case is still under investigation.

CASE UPDATE:   Nov 19, 2025

RELEASE DATE:   Nov 18, 2025
CASE NUMBER:     25-47558
 

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham Police is asking for the public’s assistance with locating a 9-month-old German Shepherd Mix taken in a Central City Neighborhood Robbery.

Shortly before 10:30 p.m., last night, Officers responded to a report of a robbery in the 100 block of W Powell Blvd. Officers arrived and contacted the victim, who had been assaulted. The victim reported he had been attacked by three males and one female that were not known to him. He reported that one of the suspects loaded his 9-month-old puppy, Shayla, into a white Chevy Tahoe or similar vehicle before all the suspects fled in the vehicle. Shayla is described as a German Shepherd / Rottweiler mix.

If anyone has information about this case or the puppy’s whereabouts , they are asked to call non-emergency at 503-823-3333 or the Gresham Police Tip-Line at 503-618-2719.

#30

Calling out the impacts of federal immigration enforcement actions within the Hillsboro community, the Hillsboro City Council has declared a State of Emergency.
 

The Council unanimously adopted the resolution declaring the emergency during its meeting on November 18, 2025, while directing the City to take more actions to address the impacts of immigration enforcement in Hillsboro.

• Read the complete State of Emergency declaration

The Council will convene in a special work session to continue to the discussion on Monday, November 24, at 6:30 pm inside the Hillsboro Civic Center, Room 113 B&C. The special work session will be held in person and online via Zoom, and Wordly translation services will be available.

The Council’s emergency declaration condemns U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers’ reported and alleged conduct infringing on the constitutional rights of members of the Hillsboro community, including:

• arresting and detaining individuals without affording due process rights
• refusing to share information about the reason for an individual’s arrest or the location where an individual will be detained
• routinely wearing masks and refusing to provide identification
• questioning residents and visitors about their immigration status based on their race, ethnicity, language, accent, occupation, or presence at certain locations such as day-labor sites, bus stops, car washes, and parking lots

“The unnecessary and likely unlawful tactics being used by many federal immigration enforcement authorities have generated widespread fear in the community, which cause our residents to be fearful of leaving their homes to go to work, school, access City services, take public transportation, attend medical appointments, and other necessary daily activities, and as a result children are denied access to public education, individuals are prevented from seeking necessary healthcare, local businesses are negatively impacted, and residents are discouraged from working with law enforcement agents to report, solve and prevent minor and serious crime,” the City Council resolution declared.

“No matter when someone has joined our community or where they have come from, every person deserves to be free of fear and intimidation and to be treated with dignity and respect.”

“The City of Hillsboro reaffirms its commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive city and to shielding residents to the best of our ability from fear, discrimination, and unjust enforcement practices. In response to expanding federal immigration actions that threaten civil liberties and community trust, this resolution reiterates the City’s commitment to support and comply with Oregon’s Sanctuary Promise Laws, and directs that City resources will not be used to enforce federal immigration laws. By adopting this resolution, Hillsboro strengthens its sanctuary measures, upholds its core values, and supports the wellbeing of all residents and visitors, especially immigrant and other vulnerable communities.”

In addition, the Council’s declaration:

• condemns ICE enforcement actions targeting students and families, and calls for an immediate end to such actions
• calls on all elected officials, including members of Congress from Oregon, to publicly denounce these unconstitutional actions, demand immediate oversight and transparency from immigration enforcement agencies, and work to ensure the rights of all individuals — regardless of immigration status — are fully protected under the Constitution
• demands that the Oregon Congressional delegation prioritize a bill at the next congressional session offering comprehensive immigration reform that aligns enforcement with our economic needs, humanitarian values, and community realities
• requests that members of the Legislature and the Governor take action to protect our immigrant and other vulnerable communities from the unlawful and unnecessary actions being taken by federal agents in the name of immigration enforcement, such as imposing a mask ban or imposing identification requirements

Additional Actions

Within the City Council’s emergency declaration resolution, City of Hillsboro employees are directed to:

• continue to identify and clearly label with signage those non-public spaces within City-owned or City-leased buildings that are not accessible to the general public, including offices and other restricted-entry areas.
• continue to coordinate with community partners and other municipalities — including immigrant rights advocates, legal services providers, educational institutions, local business owners, neighborhood leaders, and faith leaders — to develop and maintain programs for communication, outreach, and community support to address the emergency impacts of federal immigration enforcement.
• participate in trainings on City and State sanctuary policies and laws, including:
  • the minimum requirements of state law
  • Know Your Rights
  • The Sanctuary Promise Act and how to report to the violations hotline
  • How to report to appropriate immigrant rights coalitions and other agencies
  • Roleplaying scenarios of different Federal Immigration Authority interactions
  • How to report U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency activity and violations
  • Information on how and where employees can access relevant City resources and additional learning materials
  • Resources for City employees directly affected by federal immigration authority enforcement action
  • Protocols for supervisors on responding if employees are detained, as well as guidance on compassionate leadership and support for employees

The Council’s declaration also requires reports to the Council regarding the implementation of the resolution, to include:

• Employee training completion rates and an evaluation of the City’s training programs
• Known Federal enforcement activity on City property and within facilities
• Known violations of the Sanctuary Promise Act by City employees
• Information on sanctuary-related policies and procedures in similar local jurisdictions
• Review and evaluation of the City’s efforts to implement this resolution that is informed by feedback from employees, equity and language subject matter experts, labor union representatives, immigration rights organizations, faith leaders, community leaders, nonprofits, and educational institutions.

Immigration Resources

For community members, resources for immigration impacts are on the City of Hillsboro website, including:

• Emergency Reporting
• Family Preparedness
• Legal Resources
• Knowing Your Rights
• What Sanctuary City & State designations mean
• Community Support & Resources

WEST LINN, OR – November 19, 2025 – At a meeting on Tuesday, November 18, the West Linn City Council unanimously adopted the West Linn Waterfront Community Vision Plan. The plan is a roadmap for revitalizing the City’s underutilized 275-acre Willamette River waterfront area into a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable regional destination where residents and visitors can experience the natural beauty of the river and the cultural heritage of West Linn. The plan has been developed through an extensive public outreach process built on decades of community dialogue.  

The adopted plan integrates community priorities and property owner input into a long-term vision for a diverse mix of future land uses, public river access, and environmental stewardship. Through infrastructure investments and public-private partnerships, the vision anticipates celebrating the Indigenous and industrial heritage of the site.

Mayor Rory Bialostosky looks forward to continuing to dream with the community, saying, "This is an historic day for West Linn, and the Waterfront is an area of tremendous opportunity for our City. And I’m really hopeful that by adopting this plan, our City—and really, the region—will have a gathering place with shops, restaurants, parks, tribal space, and other opportunities right near the majestic Willamette Falls, which is the second largest waterfall in the country by volume.” 

Council President Baumgardner was extremely grateful to the many people she's spent years talking about the project with—especially the environmental advocates, local stakeholders, and Indigenous voices whose passion and dedication helped shape the plan. “Without engaged community members, where would we be?” she asked. 

With the adoption of the vision plan, the City will begin work on the next phase: developing updated zoning and development standards and advancing a strategic economic plan for the area. The City will apply for a Metro 2040 grant to help implement these goals, with the next phase projected to launch in 2026. Continued community engagement and opportunities for input will remain a cornerstone of this effort. 

The full West Linn Waterfront Community Vision Plan is available at yourwestlinn.com/waterfront-community-vision. 

Contacts: 
Darren Wyss, Principal Planner 
City of West Linn 

Dwyss@westlinnoregon.gov  

HILLSBORO, Ore- On November 14, 2025, a Washington County jury found Jeffrey Allen Braukmann, age 54, guilty of rape in the first degree, unlawful sexual penetration in the first degree, and sexual abuse in the first degree. Deputy District Attorney Rayney Meisel prosecuted this case before Judge Hafez Daraee.
 

In August of 2023, the defendant sexually assaulted the child victim, who was visiting family from out of state. He threatened to hurt the child’s family if she reported his actions. After the assault, the defendant said there would be “major consequences” if she ever reported him.
 

In May of 2024, the victim disclosed the abuse. The defendant was then arrested by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the victim for reporting this abuse and acknowledges the investigative work of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
 

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 7, 2026.

PORTLAND, Ore.— A Portland man pleaded guilty today to arson at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Trenten Edward Barker, 34, pleaded guilty to Arson of a Federal Building.

According to court documents, on June 11, 2025, a group of individuals began constructing a barricade of large objects and debris against the vehicle gate of the ICE building to prevent law enforcement officers from exiting through the gate. Barker lit a flare from his backpack and threw it onto the pile of debris. The flare ignited the debris, causing a fire to start.

On October 22, 2025, Barker was charged by information with Arson of a Federal Building.

Barker faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a 250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on March 4, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Portland Police Bureau. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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Portland, OR — Kick off the holiday season on Sunday, December 7 at Holiday Cheer: A Celebration of Oregon Authors. Visit with more than 65 local writers from 12pm to 4pm as you sip on hot cocoa, enjoy festive treats, and get a jump on your holiday shopping! Admission is free and includes access to both the book sale and museum exhibitions.

This year, some of the Pacific Northwest’s most prominent authors will be at OHS selling everything from children’s books to guidebooks to mysteries to histories! Featured authors include Pulitzer Prize–winning cartoonist Jack Ohman, New York Times bestselling historical fiction author Kristina McMorris, Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read, journalist and podcaster Leah Sottile, and Steve Prefontaine biographer Brendan O’Meara. View a full list of participating authors at ohs.org/holidaycheer.

To add to the festivities, the popular Meier & Frank Santaland display will be back on view! Generations of Oregonians have fond memories of the downtown Portland Meier & Frank department store’s Santaland. A ride on the iconic Monorail and a chance to sit on Santa’s lap became a Christmas tradition for many families. Following the closure of Macy’s downtown store (which purchased Meier & Frank in 2005), a small number of items from Santaland were donated to OHS, which have been displayed annually since 2018. Come share in the holiday cheer with a visit to this nostalgic display, featuring Rudolph, animatronic elves, holiday decor, a model of the beloved monorail. The well-remembered Cinnamon Bear costume from Lipman’s holiday traditions will also be on display.

The museum galleries will be open from 12pm to 5pm. In addition to Santaland, featured exhibitions will include:

• She Flies with Her Own Wings, a look at Oregon’s golden age of aviation in the 1930s that shares how flight reshaped lives and technology.
• June Drake: Preserving the Past to Shape the Future, a retrospective of photographer June D. Drake’s work documenting life in Silverton, Oregon, and surrounding areas and the evolution of rural Oregon over six decades.
• The Yasui Family: An American Story, which shares one Oregon family’s experiences of racism, incarceration, and their unwavering commitment to justice, reflecting broader civil rights struggles in America.
• “We Were All Living a Dream”, a photographic exhibition of Donna Pollach’s intimate portraits of feminist and lesbian communities in 1970s Portland, chronicling their activism, camaraderie, and challenges.

For 56 years, OHS has celebrated the state’s rich literary talents at this annual book signing event. Book sales at Holiday Cheer support the Oregon Historical Society’s mission to preserve our state’s history and make it accessible to everyone in ways that advance knowledge and inspire curiosity about all the people, places, and events that have shaped Oregon.

About the Oregon Historical Society

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

Milton-Freewater, Ore. -- The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Milton-Freewater office plans to move into a new location Monday, December 8. The office will move from its current location at 309 N. Columbia Street to 151 Sykes Boulevard, Suite A.

The new office will include Self-Sufficiency Program (SSP), Oregon Eligibility Partnership, Child Welfare (CW), Aging and People with Disabilities and Vocational Rehabilitation programs. Also, several community partners will be in the new office on select days, including: Oregon Employment Department, Training Employment Consortium and Domestic Violence Services. The office will be open weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The 18 staff members will move in throughout the weekend through Monday morning.

“It will be such a meaningful change, and we’re truly excited about the new office,” Dianna Ilaoa, SSP District Manager, said. “This isn’t just a new building — it’s a space created with care for our staff, our clients and the community we serve. We hope everyone who walks through the doors feels supported, welcomed and valued.” Lidwinner Machado is the CW District Manager.

The new office has an indoor and an outdoor play area for children. The space is designed to be trauma-informed, with calming colors, quite spaces, white noise for privacy in conversations and modern, comfortable furniture for client visits. There will be increased bus service for several weeks in the area for greater convenience to people coming to the new office. ODHS will be leasing half of the 151 Sykes Boulevard building. They had been in their former building for more than 30 years.

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About ODHS

The ODHS programs provide financial supports to families which include SNAP, TANF, Domestic Violence Survivor Benefits, child care and medical benefits. The JOBS program connects families to a Family Coach for an assessment and supports to achieve their goals and create pathways out of poverty. ODHS staff assist individuals and families in navigating resources, including finding and funding childcare, providing gas support, and offering transportation to domestic violence shelters, medical appointments, and other essential visits. ODHS collaborates with various partners to address family needs and connects families to affordable housing, as well as mental health and other needed resources. ODHS works with other providers to provide employment and education opportunities, ensuring access to vital community resources.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018 

PacifiCorp reaches settlement with 1,434 plaintiffs related to the 2020 Labor Day Fires​

​

PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 19, 2025) — PacifiCorp has reached a $150 million settlement with 1,434 plaintiffs associated with Labor Day 2020 fires. Since 2020, the company has settled nearly 4,200 wildfire claims for $1.6 billion, which represents approximately 70 percent of individual claims in California and Oregon. The vast majority of the remaining claims are a part of the James class action litigation.

“We are doing the responsible thing and we are gratified to resolve these claims to provide plaintiffs with some closure to move on,” said Ryan Flynn, Pacific Power president. “The process that led to this settlement represents the fairest and most efficient way to resolve wildfire litigation. Class action litigation is costly, complex, takes several years to run its course and is a barrier to reasonable outcomes.”

PacifiCorp remains willing to settle all outstanding reasonable claims related to the Echo Mountain, 242 and South Obenchain fires. Nearly 20 percent of plaintiffs in the James class action have now settled with PacifiCorp.

Due to the compelling findings in the Oregon Department of Forestry report that concluded PacifiCorp’s assets did not initiate or contribute to the Beachie Creek/Santiam Canyon fire, the company will continue to actively defend against those claims.​

Plaintiffs in the settlement are represented by the Warren Allen, Swigart Law Group and Spreter | Petiprin law firms.​

​

“We are glad to have reached reasonable settlements with PacifiCorp for our current clients,” said George McCoy, an attorney at Warren Allen. “Those outcomes reflect a shared commitment with PacifiCorp to resolving disputes through a principled approach that serves affected Oregon communities. This matter will not be resolved through targeted or punitive legislation. It will not be resolved through a drawn-out trial process. Rather, it will be resolved by continuing the collaborative problem-solving approach used to reach this agreement that benefits Oregonians. We will continue our efforts to help rebuild Oregon communities recovering from the 2020 Labor Day wildfires.”​

The settlement not only provides relief for those impacted by the Labor Day 2020 fires, but is also a critical step in stabilizing the financial health of the company and ensuring the delivery of safe and reliable power to over 2 million customers across six-states, including 630,000 customers in Oregon​.

“This settlement between plaintiffs’ counsel and PacifiCorp demonstrates that the parties can come to the table and work out agreements to compensate Oregonians impacted by wildfire,” said Oregon Representative Pam Marsh, D-Ashland. “We need our utilities to keep the lights on and to make continued investments building out the electrical grid to support growth throughout our state. To do that, they must be in a place where the market and investors see them as stable.”

The parties engaged Judge Peter Lichtman (Ret.) of Signature Resolution to preside over the negotiations that resulted in this settlement.

"For the last five-plus years, I have served as Special Master and Mediator in Wildfire matters that have unfortunately affected the Southwestern Region of the United States, inclusive of Oregon,” said Judge Lichtman. “In mediating this and other Labor Day 2020 fire cases, I found PacifiCorp to be professional, engaged, and genuinely committed to resolving valid claims that were presented to it. PacifiCorp has consistently carried out its settlement negotiations in good faith, making sure that the outcomes are fair and reasonable to the affected families.”

Today’s settlement follows other recent settlements between PacifiCorp and more than 90 Oregon wineries and timber companies, reached over the past month with the assistance of Judge Karsten H. Rasmussen (Ret.) a retired Lane County Circuit Court Judge who served 19 years on the bench, including six as Presiding Judge. Judge Rasmussen also previously served as a Democratic state senator representing rural Lane and Douglas counties.

“I have mediated hundreds of cases stemming from the Labor Day 2020 fires,” said Judge Rasmussen. “I can confidently say that in every case involving PacifiCorp, PacifiCorp has taken a respectful and collaborative approach to working with plaintiff’s counsel to resolve claims for negatively impacted individuals. This has resulted in efficient resolution that provides impacted individuals with reasonable and timely settlements and afforded these folks the opportunity to move on with their lives.”​

​

For more than a century, PacifiCorp has provided safe, affordable and reliable power and has served as a key driver of economic growth throughout Oregon. The company has an industry-leading wildfire mitigation program built upon significant investments in system strengthening, situational awareness informed by advanced risk forecasting and modeling, and protective operational practices. ​

​

The growing threat of wildfires affects everyone and is larger than any single company, industry or government. It is critical that wildfire-related issues be solved holistically, with businesses, governments and key stakeholders working together to design and implement constructive, enduring solutions.  ​

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About PacifiCorp

PacifiCorp is one of the lowest-cost electrical providers in the United States, serving more than 2 million customers. The company operates as Rocky Mountain Power in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming and as Pacific Power in California, Oregon and Washington. PacifiCorp provides safe and reliable service through a vast, integrated system of generation and transmission that connects communities with the largest regulated utility owner of wind power in the West. For more information, visit PacifiCorp.com. 

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver invites students, families and community members to attend Scholarships 101 Information Night at 6 p.m. Dec. 3, in the Dengerink Administration Building, Room 110.

The free, public event will provide practical strategies and expert guidance to help students find and win scholarships that can reduce the cost of college.

“Scholarships can open doors—helping students fund their education without taking on extra debt,” said Natalie Marquez, campus director of student financial services. “We want to empower students to pursue higher education with less financial stress.”

Attendees will learn:

• Where to find the best scholarship opportunities
• How to write essays that stand out
• What successful scholarship recipients did to win awards

The session is designed to equip students with insider knowledge and actionable tools to make higher education more affordable and achievable.

Advance registration is encouraged. Visit vancouver.wsu.edu/events to register. Complimentary parking will be provided to registered guests.

For disability accommodations, call 360-546-9739 or email van.accommodations@wsu.edu.

For more information about the event, contact Student Financial Services at 360-546-WSUV or van.finaid@wsu.edu.

About WSU Vancouver

WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave. in Vancouver, east of the 134^th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205, or via C-TRAN bus service. Find a campus map at vancouver.wsu.edu/map. Download the AMP Park app or go to aimsmobilepay.com to pay for parking.

As one of six campuses of the WSU system, WSU Vancouver offers big-school resources in a small-school environment. The university provides affordable, high-quality baccalaureate- and graduate-level education to benefit the people and communities it serves. As the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington, WSU Vancouver helps drive economic growth through relationships with local businesses and industries, schools and nonprofit organizations. 

WSU Vancouver is located on the homelands of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Peoples of the Lower Columbia Valley. We acknowledge their presence here. WSU Vancouver expresses its respect towards these original and current caretakers of the region. We pledge that these relationships will be built on mutual trust and respect.

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On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, the Lincoln City Police Department was made aware of a male in Lincoln City with active warrants for his arrest, including a felony weapons offense.  LCPD Officers located the male, 32-year-old Lincoln City resident Selvin Fajardo Landa, driving near SW Harbor Ave and SW Bard Rd.

Officers tried to stop Fajardo Landa, but he attempted to escape by driving away from the officers at a high rate of speed.  Fajardo Landa eventually stopped his car and fled on foot into the Agnes Creek Open Space.

K9 Nix and her police handler pursued Fajardo Landa on foot until he surrendered.

Fajardo Landa was arrested and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on his warrants, as well as additional charges of Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering, and two counts of Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police. No one involved was injured.

We would like to express our gratitude to the citizens of Lincoln City for their ongoing support of our K9 Program. We have experienced many peaceful surrenders based on the presence of our K9 partners, and are pleased to support our city and neighboring agencies with their hard work.

Submitted By:

Sgt Torin Liden

Under Authority Of:

Chief David Broderick 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 19, 2025
 

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Gail Krumenauer, State Employment Economist

(971) 301-3771

Video and Audio available at 10 a.m. PT

David Cooke, Economist (971) 375-5288

Employment Reports Delayed Again After Federal Government Shutdown

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has resumed production of the monthly employment reports for the nation on a delayed schedule after the lapse in federal government appropriations that began on Oct. 1, 2025.

The most recent update from the BLS on Wednesday, Nov. 19 says, “BLS will not publish an October 2025 Employment Situation news release. Establishment survey data from the Current Employment Statistics survey for October 2025 will be published with the November 2025 data. Household survey data from the Current Population Survey could not be collected for the October 2025 reference period due to a lapse in appropriations. The household survey data is not able to be retroactively collected. The collection period for November 2025 data will be extended for both surveys, and extra processing time will be added.”

Currently, Oregon’s monthly nonfarm job estimates and unemployment rate are still not available beyond August 2025 and publication dates for the states and metropolitan areas have not been announced.

As of August, preliminary estimates showed Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.0%, and employers added 6,900 jobs to nonfarm payrolls. In the absence of these current, principle monthly indicators, the Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce and Economic Research Division continues tracking trends in the department’s other data sources to assess the labor market. These include job vacancies and unemployment insurance claims.

Oregon’s latest quarterly job vacancy survey results show hiring demand remained generally stable over the past year, but did not increase as much as would typically occur mid-year. Oregon’s private employers have reported between about 50,000 and 54,000 job vacancies at any given time from October 2024 to September 2025.

Claims for unemployment insurance (UI) show a partial picture, as only a portion of all unemployed Oregonians are eligible for these benefits. First-time or initial UI claims in recent weeks appeared to be within the typical range for this time of year. Ongoing or continued claims have followed seasonal trends, but at elevated levels compared with recent years. Oregon has averaged 33,600 continued claims per week so far in 2025, about 5,600 (or 20%) higher than the average during the same timeframe in 2024.

Next Press Releases

The BLS will update its revised news release schedule as new information becomes available. The Oregon Employment Department plans to highlight the latest available local labor market news on QualityInfo.org on Tuesday, Nov. 25. The Research Division’s schedule of future releases will be updated as federal partner agencies issue more guidance.

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SALEM, Ore. — The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) will meet at 10 a.m. on Nov. 26, 2025, in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry at 2600 State Street in Salem. This is the first meeting of the new EFCC since the passage of HB 3940 in the 2025 Legislative Session that resulted in changes to committee membership, fiduciary responsibilities and purpose. The new law shifts the committee's focus from large fire costs to preparedness (district and association fiscal budgets) but retains strategic investment authority. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Selection of committee chair
• Fire season report
• Discussion of EFCC’s new role in the statewide protection system under House Bill (HB) 3940
• Decisions on policy and Oregon Administrative Rule changes resulting from HB 3940
• 2026 meeting schedule
• Administrator report

The meeting is open to the public to attend in-person or virtually via Teams. Public comments will be accepted near the end of the meeting. 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 503-881-8292 or by email at na.m.hobbs@odf.oregon.gov">lorna.m.hobbs@odf.oregon.gov.

The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) oversees the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF), established by the Oregon Legislature as a fund with the purpose of providing funds for fiscal year budgets of forest protection districts, investments in supplemental fire prevention, detection or suppression resources that enhance fire protection in the state and issuing loans to the Oregon Department of Forestry or forest protection associations that relate to wildfire costs. View more information on the EFCC webpage.

Economic Resilience Improves State's Financial Stability

Salem, OR – Carl Riccadonna, state chief economist and Michael Kennedy, senior economist of the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Office of Economic Analysis (OEA), presented the latest economic outlook and revenue forecast to the legislative committee on finance and revenue. The quarterly revenue forecasts serve to open the revenue forecasting process to public review and is the basis for much of the Oregon state government budgeting process.

What is Different About this Forecast?

The Office of Economic Analysis provides quarterly forecasts for the state of Oregon’s major revenue sources, including all sources contributing to the General Fund (Personal and Corporate Income Tax, etc.), Lottery and the Corporate Activity Tax. The Q4-December economic outlook, while complicated by a lack of government economic statistics resulting from the federal government shutdown, reflects continued economic resilience both nationally and within the state. Recession risks appear to be diminishing, and the forecasts for 2026 has improved modestly.

Revenue Forecast

The revenue forecast for 2025-27 has increased $309.5 million, due largely to recent strength in Corporate Income Tax receipts. Corporate Income Tax exhibits significant quarter-to-quarter volatility, making it one of the more difficult revenue streams to forecast. For all other revenues, mild improvement in the economic landscape and outlook translate into a slight uptick in expected receipts for the biennium. The projected General Fund ending balance has improved, from a deficit of $372.7 million to a deficit of $63.1 million from last quarter.

About the Office of Economic Analysis

The state chief economist oversees the Office of Economic Analysis within the Department of Administrative Services and provides objective forecasts of the state’s economy, revenue, populations, corrections population and Youth Authority population. These forecasts are used across state government, and by the public for a variety of reasons, notably to inform the state budgeting process. For more information about the Office of Economic Analysis and recent forecasts, please visit the OEA website.

Links: https://www.oregon.gov/das/oea/pages/index.aspx.

The Woodburn Police Department (WPD) is committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community. In April, officers and detectives from WPD began an investigation into a report involving the possible sexual assault of a juvenile.

Through detailed and collaborative work, detectives uncovered that an adult male from Washington had traveled across state lines to harm a minor. Working closely with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Kent, Washington Police Department, the Snoqualmie, Washington Police Department, and the Washington Department of Corrections, investigators identified the offender as James “Jake” Harrison Newcomer, a 29-year-old registered sex offender who had removed his ankle monitor.

On Monday, November 17, 2025, Newcomer was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 17 years in prison. We are grateful for the teamwork between agencies that led to a successful prosecution.

For full details, please see the press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdwa/pr/registered-sex-offender-who-cut-ankle-bracelet-and-committed-more-sex-crimes-against

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Colin Fogarty 

Director of Communications 

ty@oregoncf.org" target="_blank">Cfogarty@oregoncf.org

Oregon Community Foundation and Donors Commit $1.9 Million to Organizations That Feed Hungry Oregonians

Donations and Grants Support Nonprofits Providing Food and Nutrition Services throughout Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore. — The recent disruption in federal food assistance has generated a wave of generosity from Oregonians. In just six weeks, Oregon Community Foundation and its donors have committed $1.9 million to organizations that help get food to Oregonians who need it. 

The surge in giving between October 1 and November 17, 2025 happened when generous Oregonians stepped up to help through Donor Advised Funds, Corporate and Community Advised Funds and donations to the Stronger Together Fund of OCF. Separately, the OCF Board of Directors has approved a $250,000 special grant from OCF to combat food insecurity in Oregon and 18 grants totaling $300,000 to food-related organizations through the OCF Community Grants program. 

Donors Motivated by Disruption to Federal Food Benefits 

Financial support for food and nutrition services spiked in mid-October when news broke that a federal government shutdown would disrupt federal food benefits known as SNAP for 757,000 Oregonians. In response, donors began making grants to nonprofits that feed Oregonians as visits to those organizations increased sharply. 

“Oregonians help their neighbors in times of need,” said Lisa Mensah, President and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation. Mensah also serves on the board of Feeding America, a nationwide network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and programs.  

“When our food bank system said, ‘We have lines out the door and not enough food on our shelves,’ our donors heard the call and said, ‘Not on our watch,’” she said. “I’m so grateful to our donors, philanthropic partners and the nonprofit partners and volunteers who do the hard work of feeding our communities day after day.” 

The disruption to SNAP benefits began November 1. In response, Oregon Community Foundation called on donors to help stabilize and support the network of food banks, food pantries and other organizations that distribute food. Donors responded with contributions flowing into the Stronger Together Fund of Oregon Community Foundation, which is giving all money raised between November 1 and December 5 to food-related nonprofits.  

Hunger Touches Every Community 

A vast network helps feed Oregonians experiencing food insecurity. The Oregon Food Bank partners with 21 regional food banks and more than 1,200 food assistances sites. In addition, many organizations operate food assistance programs outside of the Oregon Food Bank. 

At an Oregon Community Foundation virtual briefing last week, food bank leaders and foundation partners described a system grappling with the twin challenges of a diminished food supply and unprecedented demand.  

Cuts to the federal funding that helps fill food bank shelves reduced the flow of food into Oregon at the same time rising food, housing and energy costs caused more people to visit food banks to make ends meet. The disruption to SNAP benefits put that dynamic, “on steroids,” said Scott Cooper, Executive Director of NeighborImpact. He said his Central Oregon food banks will see nearly 1 million visits this year in a region with soaring housing costs. 

One regional food bank leader described parents parking blocks away from the food bank and arriving with a child on their hip, towing a wagon to fill with food.  

“They need to be fed,” said Lori Garrard, Executive Director of Klamath-Lake Counties Food Bank. 

Marion Polk Food Share President and CEO Rick Gaupo shared about a working mom who lost $500 in food benefits at the start of November. She turned to her local pantry for the first time when she couldn’t get more work.  

Hunger More Common in Rural Areas 

One in eight Oregonians experience hunger, and in rural and remote Oregon, residents face food insecurity rates nearly double those in urban areas. 

Roundhouse Foundation Executive Director Erin Borla shared at the virtual briefing that the private family foundation will give $6 million over the next three years to support rural Oregon food banks. Private foundations including the Ford Family Foundation, Meyer Memorial Trust, the Lora & Martin Kelley Family Foundation and others are also giving generously to food and food-related organizations.  

Borla offered stories of hope from rural communities. 

“I have heard specifically of community dinners in small rural places where they feed 160 people a week. We've got libraries that are showing up with meals on a weekly basis,” Borla said. “There was a high school here locally, and instead of trick-or-treating, the high school students planned and picked up bags of donated food from everybody's porch. People are showing up in a way that really does build community.” 

OCF donors have seen the need up close. 

“Food insecurity doesn’t stop at the city limits,” says Betsy Priddy, an OCF donor. “After visiting Eastern Oregon, I witnessed first-hand the deep relationships forged even in our most remote communities. Local organizations are doing transformative work on modest budgets, proving that impact isn’t measured in dollars alone. For me, it’s simple: I support OCF in deploying resources where they will make the greatest difference.” 

About Oregon Community Foundation 

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

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PORTLAND, Ore.— Three men associated with the Sureño street gang have been charged with felon in possession of a firearm after the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) engaged in multiple undercover purchases of firearms and machine gun conversion devices.

Cesar Daniel Arevalo, 36, of Portland, Oregon and Jose Luis Brown Ceballos, 35, and Jose Luis Diaz Ceballos, 24, of Salem, Oregon, have been charged by criminal complaint with Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

According to court documents, from July 2025 through November 2025, ATF undercover agents engaged in multiple undercover purchase operations involving Arevalo and his associates. Undercover agents purchased a total of 15 firearms (four modified to machineguns), 58 machinegun conversion devices, and cocaine from Arevalo and his associates, including Diaz Ceballos.

On November 13, 2025, Arevalo, Brown Ceballos, Diaz Ceballos, and a juvenile conducted an armed protection of an undercover narcotics transaction in Salem. When the transaction was completed, the armed suspects were arrested by ATF agents. Four firearms were recovered from the scene.

The ATF and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Bockelman is prosecuting the case.

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

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

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Portland, OR -- November 18, 2025 – Jesuit High School announces the retirement of Ken Potter from his roles as head varsity football coach and counselor at the end of the 2025-26 school year. Ken is Oregon’s all-time winningest football coach, with an extraordinary 369-92 overall record at Jesuit that includes 25 league championships and four state titles. 

This fall, the Crusaders went undefeated in league play, won the Metro League championship, and made a valiant playoff run that ended in the quarterfinals against West Linn last Friday. 

Ken was named Jesuit’s varsity football coach in 1987 – his first head coaching job – and the Crusaders went undefeated in his inaugural season. Throughout his career, he has earned numerous accolades, including Metro Coach of the Year, Oregon Coach of the Year, and National Coach of the Year (Western region).

More significant than wins and losses, Ken’s legacy can be measured by the generations of students he has helped shape into people of conscience, competence, and character. His life lessons extend beyond the football field and resonate long after students graduate. 

“Coach Potter is undoubtedly one of the greatest coaches in Oregon state history,” said  Dr. Owen Marecic ‘07, a fullback and linebacker who went on to play football at Stanford University and in the NFL. “Like so many others, I am proud and honored to say that he was my coach. He taught me invaluable lessons about teamwork, discipline, work ethic, selflessness, and faith that continue to inspire me to this day. He leaves a legacy of excellence that is difficult to match and should be celebrated to the fullest.”

Creating a family among coaches and players is central to Ken’s coaching philosophy, a value rooted in his own upbringing. His brother, Gene Potter, serves as assistant football coach at Jesuit and head men’s varsity basketball coach. Their father, George Potter, coached high school football teams for 44 years. 

Senior linebacker and receiver Jack Tuenge ‘26 said, “He is the best coach I have played for, but more than that, he pushes me to be a better person off the field and shows that he cares for me every day.”

“The Jesuit family is profoundly grateful for Ken’s service, leadership, and commitment to our mission over the last 38 years,” said Jesuit High School President Thomas D. Arndorfer. “We wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”

Jesuit High School will be conducting a national search for the school’s next head football coach. For inquiries, contact footballcoach@jesuitportland.org or check our website (jesuitportland.org/about/employment) for job information in the coming weeks.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On November 10, 2025, Washington County Circuit Court Judge Brandon Thompson found Jacob Michael Anderson, age 35, guilty of bias crime in the first degree and reckless driving. Judge Thompson then sentenced the defendant to 120 days in the Washington County Jail, suspended his driver’s license for 90 days, placed him on supervised probation for a period of three years, barred him from having any contact with the victim, and ordered him to take anger management classes. Deputy District Attorney BJ Park prosecuted this case.
 

The victim in this case is an Asian American who lived across the street from the defendant. On May 17, 2024, the victim and defendant both left their homes around the same time to drive to work. As the victim was driving, he saw the defendant tailgating him and driving erratically. This occurred on a residential street with a speed limit of 25 miles per hour. The defendant then passed the victim on the right at a high rate of speed. This maneuver caused damage to the victim’s car as well as a parked vehicle.
 

Both cars stopped in the middle of the road. The defendant then exited his vehicle, approached the victim in a menacing manner, and called him a racial slur.
 

Beaverton police responded to the scene. The victim showed them a dash camera video depicting the defendant’s reckless driving, and he was arrested. Investigators learned the defendant had targeted the victim in multiple previous road rage incidents, information that contributed to Judge Thompson’s sentencing decision.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office acknowledges the work of the Beaverton Police Department on this case.
 

Community members who witness bias crimes should report them to local law enforcement. The Oregon Department of Justice also operates a bias crime hotline. Call 1-844-924-2427 for assistance. 

(News release on behalf of the Tigard City Council)

City Manager Brent Stockwell has submitted his resignation, and the Tigard City Council has accepted it, in accordance with the terms of his employment agreement.

The resignation was submitted today and is effective today, November 18, 2025.

“Following recent discussions about the City’s leadership direction, Mr. Stockwell informed the Council of his decision to resign,” said Mayor Yi-Kang Hu. “We appreciate his service and contributions to Tigard and wish him well in his future endeavors. As we shared with the community after the resignation of the former mayor, the Council is committed to doing better – strengthening leadership, culture and accountability across our organization.”

Acting City Manager Emily Tritsch will continue to serve in the interim to ensure stability and continuity in city operations.

“Throughout this transition, our focus remains on supporting our employees, maintaining stability and continuing to deliver the high level of service that our community expects and deserves,” added Mayor Hu.

The Tigard City Council has three direct employees: the City Manager, the City Attorney and the Municipal Judge. The Council will begin the process of identifying next steps for long-term leadership in the City Manager role, and those details will be shared as Council moves forward.

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Clackamas County, Ore. (Nov. 18, 2025)- On Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 8:39 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 224, near milepost 14, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated westbound Yamaha R6, operated by Akahieleu Redo (22) of Oregon City, lost control while negotiating a curve, left the roadway, struck a mound of dirt, and went airborne before the motorcycle and rider came to rest in a tree.

The operator of the Yamaha (Redo) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by Clackamas Brush Fire Unit 312 and ODOT.

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

DALLAS (OR) – Ruben Robert Navarro-Herrera, 31, has been sentenced to serve 85 months (7 years, 1 month) in prison for attempting to rob a West Salem man outside of his residence. After fleeing the scene, Navarro-Herrera was quickly located and apprehended by Salem Police officers with the assistance of alert citizens. Upon investigation, it was determined Navarro-Herrera was in possession of a loaded stolen firearm and commercial level quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl.

Navarro-Herrera, of Albany, was sentenced by Polk County Circuit Judge Rafael Caso, after pleading guilty to Attempted Robbery in the First Degree, Possession of a Controlled Substance (Commercial Drug Offense), and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. After Navarro-Herrera leaves prison, he will be required to serve a 35 month term of Post-Prison Supervision.

The case was investigated by the Salem Police Department. It was prosecuted by Polk County Deputy District Attorney Garrett Lewellen.

At 11:46pm, November 17^th, Bend Fire and Rescue crews were dispatched to a structure fire at a single family home behind Three Sisters Adventist Christian School, off of Tumalo road. The resident reported being woken up to what sounded like a “hail storm.” She didn’t notice any fire inside the home but when she went outside, she found flames coming from under the eaves and roof, near the stovepipe of the woodstove. Due to the absence of smoke in the home at that time, smoke alarms did not go off. Because of their quick actions, all 5 residents, including three children and multiple pets, were able to exit the manufactured home safely.  The fire was ignited from the radiant heat of the woodstove pipe that was too close to the wooden facia board of the eaves. The woodstove pipe melted the vinyl rain gutter and ignited the eaves, which spread to the attic. The fire was contained and did not spread to the interior of the home, however, the water and roof damage makes the home unihabitable.  Building loss is estimated at $65,000 and content loss estimated at $25,000.

We want to remind residents that having a home fire escape plan can be crucial in being able to escape quickly and safely from a house fire. Always have a plan for your family and pets. For help information in creating, practicing and implementing a home fire escape plan with your family, please call Bend Fire & Rescue.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Nov. 18, 2025

Media Contact: Communications@employ.oregon.gov

Unemployment Insurance tax and Paid Leave Oregon contribution rates hold steady for 2026
 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Employment Department has announced that the tax schedule for Unemployment Insurance (UI) and the contribution rate for Paid Leave Oregon will not change in 2026. Oregon will remain in Tax Schedule 3 for Unemployment Insurance, and the Paid Leave Oregon contribution rate will remain at 1 percent.

“Keeping these rates flat is important for Oregon’s economy, especially as businesses navigate increasing economic uncertainty,” Employment Director Andrew R. Stolfi said. “Both of our trust funds are healthy and stable, and we remain committed to operating these programs as efficiently as possible to minimize the impact on employers.”

Employers can view their specific 2026 rate information in their Frances Online account. The department has also mailed each employer their annual notice of the new rates.

2026 Unemployment Insurance Tax Rate 

The department uses a formula established by Oregon statute to calculate the annual payroll tax rate. Most Oregon employers pay payroll taxes that go into Oregon’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund, which is the source of Unemployment Insurance benefits for Oregon workers. Workers do not contribute to this fund or to their unemployment benefits. 

Oregon will remain in Tax Schedule 3 for 2026. The taxable wage base – the maximum amount of wages subject to Unemployment Insurance taxes – is based on the annual average wage in Oregon. OED uses a statutory formula to calculate the annual average wage, which tends to rise annually, largely due to inflation.

Following the increase in Oregon’s annual average wage, the taxable wage base will rise 4.4 percent in 2026, from $54,300 per employee in 2025 to $56,700:

For new employers (those with less than 12 months of reported payroll), the Unemployment Insurance payroll base tax rate will remain at 2.4% for 2026. 

“The fact that we are able to keep the same tax schedule next year, even as the unemployment rate has been rising slowly, is a testament to how well Oregon’s system works compared to other states,” Stolfi added. “As a self-balancing fund, Oregon’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund is one of the healthiest in the country.”

The goal of the statutory formula is to reach a balance between revenue and expenditures, where the state takes in about the same amount of money in taxes as it pays out in Unemployment Insurance benefits. The trust fund balance also earns interest, which helps keep employers’ tax rates lower.

2026 Paid Leave Oregon Contribution Rate 

The Paid Leave Oregon contribution rate for 2026 will remain at 1%. The four-year-old trust fund continues to cover benefits as well as the administrative costs to run the program.

Both employers and employees pay contributions to the Paid Leave Oregon Trust Fund, which provides benefits for Oregon workers. Employees pay 60 percent of the rate and employers (with 25 employees or more) pay 40 percent.

The level of subject wages for Paid Leave Oregon contributions, set by the annual Social Security taxable maximum wage amount, will rise 4.7 percent to $184,500 of wages per employee in 2026, also generally due to inflation.

“Local businesses are the heart of Oregon’s economy, so we want to make it as easy as possible to manage their payroll reporting and employee benefit requests,” Stolfi said. “We are here to help employers through every step of this important process.”

The overall UI tax and Paid Leave Contribution rates for 2025 and 2026 are posted on the Employment Department website at employers.oregon.gov.

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About Unemployment Insurance

Oregon’s Unemployment Insurance Program supports people and communities when facing economic uncertainty. For those who are unemployed through no fault of their own, the temporary, partial wage replacement offers financial security while seeking new work. Benefit payments also soften the local economic shock caused by layoffs and help keep skilled workers in their communities. Benefits come from Oregon employers’ payroll taxes, not workers’ paychecks. Learn more at unemployment.oregon.gov.

About Paid Leave Oregon

Paid Leave Oregon provides temporary, paid time away from work so employees can have financial security when experiencing significant life events. Covered events include welcoming a new child, recovering from a serious health condition, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or addressing issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. Paid leave benefits help Oregonians stay connected to their jobs and maintain financial stability during these major personal events. Learn more at paidleave.orogon.gov.

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.

November 18, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Hells Canyon Reservoir

Pet owners should continue to keep their pets away from areas that appear to have a bloom

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Hells Canyon Reservoir in Baker and Wallowa Counties.

OHA issued the advisory Aug 20.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Hells Canyon Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected may still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs. Pet owners should therefore keep their pets away from areas that have the appearance of a cyanobacteria bloom.

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.

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Capital improvements spark new leasing momentum and tenant growth at the historic business and events center

PORTLAND, Ore. — November 18, 2025 — A new era begins for Montgomery Park, one of Portland’s most iconic office buildings. Menashe Properties recently completed a major round of capital improvements following its acquisition of the 100-year-old landmark in August 2024. A new fitness center, renovated event spaces, new and expanded leases, and new food and beverage offerings are modernizing the property and positioning it as a vibrant hub for businesses and the community.

“Investing in Montgomery Park’s future as a community space is a special opportunity,” said Lauren Menashe, principal at Menashe Properties. “It’s one of Portland’s most beloved buildings. These improvements allow it to shine again as a place where business, creativity, and community come together.”

Capital improvements enhance tenant, community experience

The upgrades blend historic character with modern design, and include a fully renovated first floor with new lighting, decor, flooring, and furniture. Visitors to Montgomery Park will find an inviting first floor with live music daily, comfortable seating, and cozy nooks suitable for work or socializing. Outdoor enhancements include a new putting green and outdoor furniture, creating a lively space for people to gather.

The building’s 9,000-square-foot banquet and event space has been reimagined with new lighting, flooring, and décor, and will serve as a modern venue for tenant and community events.  

Leasing momentum, current tenants expand

More than 50,000 square feet of new leases have been signed in recent weeks, including OnPoint Community Credit Union’s 24,000 square-foot expansion of its headquarters.

“OnPoint has been proud to call Montgomery Park home since 1989, and we’re thrilled to be part of its next chapter,” said Tory McVay, senior vice president and chief retail officer of OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Our headquarters expansion at Montgomery Park is part of our ongoing commitment to Portland and the downtown core. It’s exciting to see these investments energizing the building for the broader community.”

Menashe Properties also opened a 5,000-square-foot fitness center this month, exclusively for Montgomery Park tenants. The facility has all-new equipment, modern locker rooms with showers and towel service, plus a dedicated spin studio and a yoga space.

New food and beverage options

A new partnership with Elephants Delicatessen will enhance the building’s event offerings. Elephants will exclusively manage all building events and catering, with flexibility for tenant-driven gatherings.

“We want the community to know we’re open for business and would love to host their next gathering,” said Lauren Menashe. “Partnering with Elephants ensures an elevated dining and event experience that reflects the quality and hospitality we envision for Montgomery Park.”

The transformation also includes the upcoming arrival of Roseline Coffee, a local specialty coffee and tea purveyor. Roseline plans to open its eighth café ahead of Thanksgiving on the ground floor at the east entrance of Montgomery Park, next to Fieldwork Flowers.

“We decided to pursue a partnership with the Menashe family because of our shared values and affection for this iconic building,” said Keith Schuman of Roseline Coffee. “We’re thrilled to bring Roseline’s distinct aesthetic, elevated hospitality, and diverse beverage program to Montgomery Park.”

With new partners like Roseline Coffee and new investments underway, Menashe Properties is bringing to life its vision for Montgomery Park – a dynamic mix of business, wellness, and public spaces to enrich the community.

Click here to learn more about leasing opportunities at Montgomery Park.

About Menashe Properties

Menashe Properties is a privately owned commercial real estate investment and management firm based in Portland, Oregon. With a diversified portfolio spanning office, retail, and industrial assets across five states, Menashe Properties has built a reputation for recognizing and acquiring high potential properties in key markets with strong tenant demand. The company focuses on long-term value creation, operational excellence, and an elevated tenant experience.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland, Oregon, man made his initial appearance yesterday in federal court after trespassing on the grounds of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building, failing to obey a lawful order, and obstructing federal property.

Christopher Griffin, 37, has been charged by information with Failing to Obey a Lawful Order, Obstructing Federal Property, and Trespassing on Federal Property.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 16, 2025, Griffin entered the grounds of the ICE building in Portland. Griffin remained on the grounds, failing to comply with the lawful direction of federal officers and was arrested. Griffin was also charged with failing to comply with an officer’s orders to leave the premises on October 22, 2025, and for obstructing the use and access to federal property on November 14, 2025.

Griffin made his first appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered released pending further court proceedings. As part of his release conditions, Griffin was ordered to stay away from the ICE building.

The Federal Protective Service is investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

An information is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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Kaiser Permanent’s Westside Medical Center earns an “A” for limiting patient injuries, reducing medical errors, and preventing infections, according to the Leapfrog Group

HILLSBORO, Ore., Nov. 18, 2025 – Kaiser Permanente’s Westside Medical Center has been recognized as among the best in Oregon for patient safety by The Leapfrog Group. Westside Medical Center earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from the national nonprofit organization that serves as a voice for health care consumers and purchasers.

“This recognition reflects the unwavering commitment of our Westside Medical Center teams to deliver exceptional care,” said Adam Van Den Avyle, Kaiser Permanente’s Northwest Hospital Administrator. “Their dedication to quality and patient safety is truly inspiring, and I’m grateful for their continued efforts to set the highest standards for our community.”

Leapfrog assesses hospitals on approximately two dozen measures, including patient injuries, medical and medication errors, and infections. Hospitals receive an A through F depending on their performance.

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only hospital ratings program focused exclusively on preventable medical errors, infections and injuries that kill more than 500 patients a day nationally. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. Grades are updated twice annually, in the fall and spring. 

To see Westside Medical Center’s full grade details and to access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit HospitalSafetyGrade.org.

Northwest Regional Education Service District is now accepting applications from high school seniors in Washington County to participate in our groundbreaking commercial driver’s license training program.

Program participants will graduate with a commercial driver's license, enabling them to get a high-demand, high-wage job in the transportation and logistics industry.

With the transportation sector facing a significant workforce shortage, this program is designed to prepare the next generation of drivers and logistics professionals while supporting regional workforce needs.

Program Benefits:

• Free commercial driver's license training and support (no cost to students or families, $8,000 value)

• Hands-on experience in transportation and logistics

• Direct connections to local employers and career opportunities

• Alignment with career and technical education (CTE) goals and workforce readiness

Eligibility and Application:

The program is open to high school seniors in Washington County who meet age and driving record requirements. Interested students must apply by Jan. 30. Training begins in March at our regional office in Hillsboro and continues in July at Elite Truck School in Hillsboro.

“We are giving students the opportunity to graduate ready for stable, high-wage careers while strengthening our local workforce,” says Jaimie Brady, a professional learning coach at NWRESD, who co-designed the program.

About Northwest Regional Education Service District's School Performance and Workforce Development Program

Our school performance and workforce development team exists to help students thrive academically, socially and professionally. Part of this work involves directly connecting students with industry partners through work-based learning experiences. Our goal is to equip students with the skills they'll need to navigate their career and college options after high school.

For more information, or to apply, visit our youth commercial driver's license training program page or email eerpathways@nwresd.k12.or.us" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);" target="_blank">careerpathways@nwresd.k12.or.us.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Nov. 18, 2025

Media Contact: Communications@employ.oregon.gov

MEDIA ADVISORY

Federal shutdown delays Oregon Employment Department’s monthly economic reporting
 

SALEM, Ore. — Although the federal shutdown has ended and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has resumed operations, the Oregon Employment Department (OED) is not able to prepare its monthly statewide employment report this week as originally scheduled due to a continued lack of federal data.OED was also unable to prepare a full report in October for the same reason.

The next monthly report was scheduled to be released on Wednesday, Nov. 19.The Employment Department has also canceled its monthly media briefing on Thursday, Nov. 20.

OED is in close communication with BLS officials and is awaiting information and guidance about federal survey data for the months of September and October that were impacted by the shutdown. OED uses that data to prepare the monthly report, including the state’s unemployment rate and nonfarm payroll employment.

OED hopes to have more information soon and will provide an update on the schedule for releasing payroll and unemployment data when it is available.

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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.

This Saturday, November 22, the Bend Firefighters will host their annual Moustache Bash – a fundraiser supporting the Bend Firefighter’s Community Assistance Program. The fundraiser will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 10 Barrel Brewing – East (62950 NE 18^th Street, Bend).

Community members are invited to dress up as their favorite action hero and join in on the fun while supporting a good cause.

Bash-goers will have opportunities to win prizes throughout the evening. Activities include:

• Costume Contest - This year’s theme is action heroes – suit up and have a chance to win!
• Moustache Contest - Featuring categories for everyone – including fake moustaches.
• Raffle – Raffle tickets are available for purchase. Enter to win one of many prizes donated by local businesses.

The Bend Firefighter’s Community Assistance Program is a nonprofit started by Bend firefighters to help meet identified needs and respond to crises in the Bend community. Firefighters often encounter difficult situations where families require help beyond traditional fire department services.

Learn more about the Bend Fire Community Assistance Program or donate today at bendcommunityassistance.org. 

At 1136 hours on Friday, November 14 2025, Bend Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a reported garage fire on River Bend Drive in the Deschutes River Woods area.  First arriving crews found a working fire on the back side of the garage that was beginning to extend toward the residence.  The occupant had evacuated the home with her dog and was a safe distance from structures.  Crews were able to knock down the fire quickly, limiting damage to the residence to some charring on the exterior porch railing.  The garage sustained moderate fire damage, with radiant heat and smoke damage to the contents of the garage.  A lean-to structure attached to the back of the garage was a complete loss.  

Upon investigation, it was found that ashes and char from a previous debris burn had been placed into a plastic bag and set at the edge of the lean-to structure, which was used to store firewood.  Ashes can remain hot for several days, particularly if there are larger pieces present within the ash.  Bend Fire & Rescue recommends that ash, whether from a debris burn, the fireplace, or the woodstove, be placed into a metal container with a lid (never a paper or plastic bag) and put outdoors onto a non-combustible surface such as concrete, metal, or bare dirt.  Fill the bucket with water, and wait at least 24-48 hours before disposing of the material.  For more home fire safety information, visit Informational Videos and Virtual Tours | City of Bend.

ONA nurses donate food and $4000+ to neighbors in need.  

(Corvallis, Ore.) – Local nurses’ food drive resulted in hundreds of pounds of food along with a $4200 check to the Linn Benton Food Share to support families in need. The financial donation will help Linn Benton Food Share acquire and distribute the equivalent of 21,000 meals to local community members. 

Nurses began collecting food and monetary donations in break rooms at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in late October. Donations were picked up November 17. The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents more than 630 nurses at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis.

“I volunteer at a food bank and I’ve seen a drop in donations and an increase in needs this year,” said Cindy Roler, an ONA nurse at Good Samaritan and organizer of the food drive. “When I saw the food drive ONA nurses in Bend organized, I thought, ‘We could do that!’ Nurses care for our community every day. This is just another way we can give back.” 

Nurses at Good Samaritan have traditionally collected and donated their ‘holiday bonuses’—free turkey coupons—to local food banks, but after recent cuts to food benefits, nurses wanted to do more this year. 

“No one in our community should have to go to bed hungry. We’re proud to be able to do our part for our neighbors and help them put food on the table,” said local nurse Amanda Newman, an ONA executive committee member at Good Samaritan.

Nurses throughout the hospital contributed to the drive by filling food collection boxes and donating $2100. ONA’s local executive committee voted to match nurses’ financial donation with bargaining unit funds and oversaw the donation’s delivery Monday.  

“Having access to healthy foods helps build the foundation for a healthy life. When you don’t have to worry about your next meal, kids can stay focused in school and parents can afford medications,” Newman said. “Helping families with the basics strengthens our entire community.”

Linn Benton Food Share stocks 68 local food pantries and meal sites supporting 15,000 people throughout Linn and Benton counties. Over the last few years, rising costs, increasing unemployment and federal cuts to food assistance have led more community members to reach out for help. 

While the Trump administration was withholding benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—the country’s largest anti-hunger program—Linn Benton Food Share filled the need, spending more than five times its usual monthly budget to keep shelves stocked. Even after SNAP benefits were restored last week, the lingering effects of food delays and the shutdown have made it hard for many Oregonians to keep food on the table. 

“There is a great need out there. Those of us who are more fortunate can help meet that need,” said Roler. “I’m so grateful for the generosity and support our nurses and staff have shown. They’ve really stepped up to the plate and you can too. If you’re able, please donate, volunteer or consider starting your own food drive. It doesn’t take much to make a big difference in someone else’s life.” 

To learn more, get help and find out how you can contribute go to www.linnbentonfoodshare.org. 

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At 10:14 a.m. today, a neighbor across from a home in the 5000 block of SE Patterson Street was one of the first to call 911, reporting that smoke and fire were billowing from the garage and through the roof. The neighbor reported to the 911 call taker that they didn’t think anyone was inside, but recalled seeing the neighbors in their garage earlier today. Other calls to 911 reported hearing small explosions coming from the garage as well. A large plume of smoke was visible from as far away as the Hillsboro Airport area. Given the reports to 911, as firefighters were en route to the call, it was upgraded to a first alarm. Additional firefighting units were dispatched for added firefighting capabilities.

The first arriving engines confirmed heavy fire in the home's garage, with flames emanating from the roof. Firefighters entered the house with hose lines to locate the fire and begin extinguishing the flames. They reported that heavy smoke conditions permeated the home. Additional firefighters advanced to the roof using ladders to cut ventilation openings to release heated gases and smoke to assist with firefighting efforts inside. Firefighters searched the home to locate and rescue any potential victims inside. They confirmed that no one was inside. The residents arrived at the house and stated that no one was inside. No injuries were reported.  

Firefighters spent additional time extinguishing hot spots in the home's attic and garage. They deduced that the explosions initially reported to 911 were most likely small propane tanks commonly used for BBQs and grills. SE Patterson Street was temporarily blocked as firefighters connected to a fire hydrant on the south side of the roadway.

Hillsboro Public Safety Chaplains responded to the incident to provide aid and support to the residents. It was reported that the resident’s family would be able to help as the fire displaced them.

Hillsboro Fire and Rescue fire investigators responded to the incident, and a fire investigation is ongoing. The cause of the fire is currently unknown.  

Hillsboro Police, AMR Ambulance, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Portland General Electric, NW Natural Gas, and Hillsboro Public Safety Chaplains assisted at the incident.

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November 17, 2025

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Extremely high microcystin levels detected in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

OHA urges caution for dog owners and waterfowl hunters

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority (OHA) urges caution for dog owns and waterfowl hunters after extremely high microcystin levels were detected in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge.

The sample was taken from an area currently open for waterfowl hunting during the 2025–2026 season. The Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge has been under a recreational advisory since July 9.

Microcystin is a cyanotoxin produced by certain harmful algal blooms. Exposure can cause acute liver damage in people and is often fatal to dogs. Hunters should avoid using contaminated water for cleaning gear or handling harvested birds.

Dogs are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. They can become extremely ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time.

Symptoms

Symptoms of microcystin exposure 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.

For more information about the advisory issued for waterfowl hunting in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, visit the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) news website.

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

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Incident: Burglary Investigation

Location: 5836 N. Coast Hwy, Newport

Date/Time: November 8^th, 2025 @ 2313 Hours

Details: On November 8^th, 2025, at approximately 2313, Newport Police Officers were dispatched to the Newport Cinema on the report of a burglary alarm at the location. Upon arrival, Officers learned from an employee at the location that after the business had been closed, they had heard someone inside the building.

Officers conducted a search of the building and discovered a vending machine had been knocked over and it appeared someone had tried prying open the change drawer of the machine. During the search officers believed the suspect was likely still inside, hiding from police. Newport Police K9 Sly was requested to assist in the building search.

K9 Officer Mangum and K9 Sly arrived and deployed inside the building. searched the building and located Sherry Marie Wyatt, 51 of Newport, hiding underneath a large piece of fabric behind one of the movie screens.

Arrested at the scene and lodged in the Lincoln County Jail were the following persons for the following charges;

SHERRY MARIE WYATT, 51

• Burglary in the 2^nd Degree

The incident remains under investigation. If you have any information regarding this case, contact Officer Eshleman of the Newport Police Department at 541-574-3348. The Newport Police Tip Line is available at 541-574-5455, or Text-a-Tip at 541-270-1856 or tipline@newportpolice.net.

Information Released By: Sgt. Bales, 541-574-3348

Portland Oregon, November 17, 2025 – Rocky Butte Farmers Market is hosting two Holiday Markets from 10AM-2PM on Saturdays, November 22nd and December 20th, inside The People’s Courts, 2700 NE 82nd Ave., Portland, OR 97220

In a time when food access and community resilience is more important than ever, the Rocky Butte Farmers Market proudly accepts Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), matching up to $20 per market day with Double Up Food Bucks through a partnership with the Farmers Market Fund, PLUS is able to offer Emergency Double Up Food Bucks to anyone with $1 on their Oregon Trail Card through November 30th.

Get the best of fresh local fall produce for your favorite winter recipes and wrap up holiday shopping early with unique gifts made by local artisans. The market will feature local, sustainable, and hand-crafted goods grown and created by local makers, farmers, and small businesses. These Holiday Markets will also feature:

●      Food demos

●      Fun and educational kids activities

●      Important note about pets: While the market is known for being dog friendly, because this market is indoors, unfortunately you'll need to leave your furry friends at home this time!

Learn more about Rocky Butte Farmers Market and Holiday Market vendors at www.rockybuttemarket.com, and follow market happenings via Instagram and Facebook at @rockybuttefarmersmarket.

CORRECTION: This news release has been reissued to correct a typo.

November 17, 2025

Media contact: Franny White, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539 

Seeking health care affordability, OHA finds five organizations didn't meet acceptable cost growth standards in 2023 

The Portland Street Response program is hosting a town hall on Tuesday, November 18 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the East Portland Community Center (740 SE 106th Ave, Portland OR 97216).

The event will share program updates and an overview of the Portland Street Response Aftercare team. There will be time for the community to ask questions and provide perspectives about this important resource.

• What: Portland Street Response Town Hall
• Where: East Portland Community Center (740 SE 106th Ave, Portland OR 97216)
• When: Tuesday, November 18 from 6-7:30 p.m.

Unable to attend in person? Watch the town hall online.

Questions? Contact info@portlandoregon.gov">psrinfo@portlandoregon.gov. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 17, 2025

City of Vancouver Fire Department Welcomes New Fire Engine with Traditional “Push-In” Ceremony at Station 3

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The City of Vancouver Fire Department proudly celebrated the arrival of its newest fire engine today with a time-honored “Push-In” ceremony at Fire Station 3 yesterday. Fire personnel gathered to officially welcome the state-of-the-art apparatus into service.

The new engine, manufactured by KME, a member of the REV Group, represents a significant investment in public safety and emergency response capabilities for the Vancouver community. Outfitted with advanced technology, improved safety systems, and enhanced operational features, the engine will support firefighters in delivering faster, safer, and more effective service.

The “Push-In” tradition dates back to the 1800s, when fire companies used horse-drawn steam engines. After returning from calls, firefighters would unhitch the horses—who couldn’t easily back the equipment into the station—and then physically push the engine into the bay. Today, modern fire departments across the nation continue the practice as a symbolic tribute to the profession’s heritage.

“Today’s ceremony connects us to our history while marking an exciting moment for our department and community,” said Captain Egan. “This new engine enhances our ability to protect lives and property, and the ‘Push-In’ honors the generations of firefighters who built the traditions we proudly uphold.”

Firefighters from Station 3 joined together to push the engine into its bay, signaling its official entry into service. The event also recognized the dedication of Vancouver’s fire personnel and the continued support of residents and city leadership.

“This engine is more than a piece of equipment—it’s a reflection of our community’s commitment to safety and resilience,” Captain Egan added.

The City of Vancouver Fire Department extends its gratitude to the community members and city leaders whose ongoing support makes advancements like this possible.

Media Contact:

City of Vancouver Fire Department
Public Information Office
Phone: (360) 869-3914

E-Mail: cityfirepios@cityofvancouver.us
https://www.cityofvancouver.us/departments/fire-department/

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 11/20/2025

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS November 20, 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

November 17, 2025

For Immediate Release

Note from the Portland Metro Chamber: The Chamber is proud to celebrate this great honor bestowed to Victoria Lara, who has been a Board Member of the Portland Metro Chamber since 2018 and served as Chair of our Communications Committee. Lara's dedication throughout her career to empowering Mexican and Latino communities has changed many lives in Portland and beyond. We encourage you to cover this event. 

Victoria Lara Honored with the Prestigious Ohtli Award

The Government of Mexico has selected Victoria Lara as the recipient of this year’s Ohtli Award, the nation’s highest recognition for individuals of Mexican heritage living abroad. The award honors those whose leadership and lifelong commitment have opened paths (“Ohtli” in Náhuatl) for others and advanced the well-being of Mexican communities around the world.

The Consulate of Mexico in Portland will preside over the award ceremony, which will bring together advocates, public officials, and distinguished Oregon leaders, including representatives from state and local government, business, and community organizations.

Victoria Lara has dedicated her career to empowering Mexican and Latino communities through opportunity, representation, and belonging. Her unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion has strengthened countless lives—especially among immigrant families striving to build a better future.

Over the years, the Ohtli Award has been presented to notable figures such as Eva Longoria, Dolores Huerta, Iliana de la Vega, Dr. Sergio Aguilar-Gaxiola, and Dr. Patricia Gándara, among others. Victoria Lara now joins this circle of visionary leaders whose impact transcends borders and generations.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Angel Reyes, Corporate Responsibility Officer at KeyBank, for helping make this celebration possible, and to La Casa de Mamá, a Latina-owned, family-operated Mexican panadería in Portland, for sharing their delicious food and hospitality during this special occasion.

The ceremony will take place on Friday, November 21, 2025, in Portland, Oregon.

Contact:
Lara Media Services
Contact@laramedia.com
www.laramedia.com

Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries (FVRLibraries) is expanding beyond its collection of books to offer a Library of Things, providing resident cardholders free access to borrow tools, musical instruments, recreational equipment, and more. 

Beginning November 17, library patrons can browse and reserve items through the library’s online catalog. Once the hold is ready, cardholders will receive a pickup notice and can collect their items at most FVRLibraries locations. Items are available for a three-week checkout period at no cost. 

“The Library of Things represents what libraries do best, providing equal access to resources,” said FVRLibraries Executive Director Jennifer Giltrop. “Whether someone wants to try pickleball, needs a drill for a weekend project, or wants to explore a new hobby like sewing, we’re expanding what it means to have access — and making it easier to learn, create, and try something new.”

This collection encompasses a diverse assortment of items across multiple categories: 

• Music & Audio: ukuleles, keyboards, podcasting microphones, and GoPro cameras

• Crafting & Sewing: sewing machines, sergers, and knitting machines

• Tools & Home Projects: stud finders, laser levels, drills and drill bit kits

• Hobbies: pickleball sets, metal detectors, and bird-watching kits

• Baking & Kitchen: specialty cake pans in fun shapes

• Learning & Play: educational toys, puzzles, and building blocks

• Tech & Creative Gear: projectors, ring lights, and blood pressure monitors

The launch of the Library of Things is made possible through generous support from the Library Foundation, which has invested $15,000 in 2025 to help build the initial collection. The Foundation has also committed additional funding in 2026 to grow and refine offerings in response to community feedback.

FVRLibraries welcomes patron suggestions for future additions to the collection and is accepting donations of new or like-new items that support creativity, learning, or everyday projects. 

Pickup locations: Items can be picked up at all FVRLibraries locations except Yacolt, Yale, North Bonneville, and Vancouver Mall. 

For more information, visit https://www.fvrl.org/library-of-things/. 

Vancouver, WA — November 14, 2025 — Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington (BGCSW) is proud to announce the opening of a new Club site at Ogden Elementary School, made possible through a 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) grant. This new location, set to open in January 2026, will provide free, high-quality after-school and summer programming for students and families in the Ogden community.

The 21st CCLC grant fully funds the new Ogden Elementary Club for five years, allowing BGCSW to serve 150–200 youth annually, with 75–100 students attending daily. The Club will operate every day after school until 6 p.m. and offer 6–8 weeks of summer programming, at no cost to families.

Programs will focus on academic support, mental health and wellness, and character and leadership development, ensuring that students have the tools they need to thrive in school and beyond.

“We have wanted to expand our services to Ogden Elementary School for several years and now, thanks to 21st Century Community Learning Center grant funds, it is a reality,” said Francisco Bueno, Executive of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington. “We are excited to partner with school staff and other community partners to support Ogden students and their families for years to come.”

This milestone represents the culmination of over a decade of partnership between BGCSW and the Ogden community. For more than ten years, the organization has bussed students from Ogden Elementary to the O.K. Clubhouse, providing them with after-school programming. However, as transportation back home after Club became an increasing barrier, the need for an on-site location became clear.

Working closely with Vancouver Public Schools district officials, BGCSW identified Ogden as a priority for expansion due to the number of students who fit the Club’s target audience, the lack of other youth services in the area, and the needs expressed by the district.

After co-writing an initial 21st CCLC grant proposal several years ago that was not funded, BGCSW and district partners reapplied in July 2025 and this time, their persistence paid off.

“I am thrilled for the opportunity for Ogden Elementary to collaborate with Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington to enhance support for our students and families,” said Matt Kauffman, Principal of Peter S. Ogden Elementary. “This partnership will give our students a safe, engaging place to continue learning and growing after school and the fact that it’s free for families is invaluable.”

The new Ogden Elementary Club will open in January 2026, becoming the latest in a network of Club sites and programs serving thousands of youth across Clark County.

For more information about Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington and how to get involved, visit www.mybgc.org or follow @mybgc on social media.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington
Founded in 1999, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington provides safe, supportive environments where young people are empowered to realize their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible community members. Through after-school and summer programs focused on academic success, healthy lifestyles, and leadership development, BGCSW serves youth across Vancouver and its surrounding areas, with special concern for those who need us most.

At 12:05 a.m., the Vancouver Fire Department responded to a fire at the Sterling Heights Apartments located at 1221 SE Ellsworth Drive.

Fire crews arrived to find fire coming from one apartment with the sprinkler system activated. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and kept it contained to the single unit.

One occupant was displaced, and no injuries were reported.

The Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire.

FOREST GROVE, Ore. – The Oregon National Guard formally welcomed home Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment during a demobilization ceremony on Nov. 16, 2025, held at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove, Oregon.

The 2-218th mobilized approximately 230 members in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, bearing the designation Task Force Defender, while conducting Short Range Air Defense operations at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in the Middle East countries of Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long deployment.

“On behalf of Governor Kotek and the entire Oregon National Guard, it is my honor and privilege to officially say, ‘Welcome Home,’” said Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard. “During Task Force Defender, you took on one of the most demanding and technically complex missions in modern warfare. Every single day, American forces, coalition partners, and local populations relied on you for their protection.”

The unit's mission was to provide capabilities for countering rockets, artillery, and mortars, as well as combating unmanned aerial systems using both kinetic and non-kinetic methods, all while offering warnings of incoming threats.

Before deploying overseas, the Soldiers underwent specialized training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. This training aimed to enhance their skills in operating the equipment and systems essential for their role as primary air defenders, which American and Coalition partners rely on for force protection.

The 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment has a long history of answering the State and Nation’s call for service. In the post 9/11 era, they have deployed to the Middle East to support Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Spartan Shield, and now Task Force Defender.

"Hey team Oregon, it's still us and we will always have your back, whether it's aboard or at home, we're still your home team," said Lt. Col. Stephan Bomar, Director of Public Affairs, Oregon Military Department.

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Released Images:

251116-Z-CH590-1039 and 251116-Z-CH590-1198: Oregon Army National Guard soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment render a hand salute during their formal demobilization ceremony held in their honor on Nov. 16, 2025, at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove, Oregon. Approximately 230 members of the unit deployed to support Operation Inherent Resolve at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long mobilization. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251116-Z-CH590-1062 and 251116-Z-CH590-1092: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard, addresses the Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment, along with their families, during their formal demobilization ceremony held on Nov. 16, 2025, at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove, Oregon. Approximately 230 members of the unit deployed to support Operation Inherent Resolve at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long mobilization. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251116-Z-CH590-1118: Oregon Army National Guard Col. Paul Dyer, the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team Commander, delivers remarks during the Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment, along with their families, during their formal demobilization ceremony held on Nov. 16, 2025, at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove, Oregon. Approximately 230 members of the unit deployed to support Operation Inherent Resolve at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long mobilization. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251116-Z-CH590-1163: Oregon National Guard Col. Paul Dyer, the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team Commander (left), and Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard (right), greets and congratulates members of the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment following their formal demobilization ceremony on Nov. 16, 2025, held at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove. Approximately 230 members of the unit deployed to support Operation Inherent Resolve at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long mobilization. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251116-Z-CH590-1220: Oregon Army National Guard Lt. Col. Manuel Robledo, commander of the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment (left), with assistance, uncases the unit colors during the demobilization ceremony held for the unit on Nov. 16, 2025, at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove.  Approximately 230 members of the unit deployed to support Operation Inherent Resolve at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long mobilization. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

On November 16, 2025 at 0721 hours Washington State Patrol (WSP) received report of a suspected drunk driver. Callers reported a vehicle swerving and near collisions on Southbound Interstate 5 near 99^th street in Vancouver, Wa. 

Clark County Sheriff's Office Deputies located the vehicle and it was observed swerving about the Interstate and driving at abnormal speeds. A Deputy attempted to stop the vehicle, but the vehicle began to elude. The vehicle was pursued and vehicle mounted Grappler device was successfully used to force the vehicle to a stop. The driver, a 61 Year-old male, was taken into custody without further incident.

On 11/15/25 at approximately 2004 hrs a witness called 911 to report finding a collision near the 23300 block of NE Heisson Rd, Battle Ground, WA.   Clark County Sheriff's Offie Deputies and Officers from the Battle Ground Police Department responded and found single motorcycle and rider off the roadway that appeared to have been involved in a collision resulting in significant injuries to the operator.  They were transported to the hospital where they succumbed to their injuries.  The Clark County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit was called out to conduct an investigation. 

Recently, there have been several comments online and in the community regarding the staffing shortage in the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office, specifically related to Lincoln County’s population size, in response to Commissioner Claire Hall’s recent post on her personal Facebook page.

Unfortunately, many of those comments are based on misleading information, causing confusion in the community. Population size alone does not forecast crime statistics or accurately predict the number of essential employees in a District Attorney’s Office. This is especially true in high tourism counties like Lincoln, who experience such a high influx of visitors yearly.

When fully staffed, the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office is budgeted for 22 full-time positions, 2 part-time positions, and 8 grant-funded positions – for a total of 32 employees. Prior to the hiring freeze, personnel consisted of 2 office managers, 10 deputy district attorneys, 10 support staff, 5 victim advocates, 2 child support staff, 1 digital forensic analyst, 1 detective, and 1 Deflection coordinator.

Due to the county hiring freeze, the District Attorney’s Office is currently operating without the following 11 positions:

• Administrative Chief
• Executive Chief
• 3 Deputy District Attorneys (including 1 grant-funded position)
• Digital Forensic Analyst
• Detective
• 2 Support Staff
• 2 Victim Advocates (part-time, grant-funded)

Using one factor, such as population, to determine adequate staffing levels in the District Attorney’s Office is deceptive. Although Lincoln County has a population size of roughly 51,153, the number of criminal cases filed by the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office is more comparable to counties with a population size of 80,000+. In 2025, Lincoln County filed roughly the same number of criminal cases as Benton County, who has a population almost double that of Lincoln County. Additionally, Lincoln County has filed almost 40-60% more criminal cases than similar sized counties like Clatsop County and Columbia County.  See criminal case filing statistics below.

Case filings statistics obtained from Oregon Justice Department and are accurate as of 11/11/2025.

Population information obtained from 2024 Oregon Blue Book Almanac & Fact Book

DA’s Office is currently operating with 6 criminal DDAs due to vacant frozen positions.

25-26 Budget contemplates a total of 9 criminal prosecutors

Given staffing shortages, the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office is currently operating with a total of 21 employees, with 4 of those positions responsible for enforcing child support judgments and coordinating the deflection program. Due to grant restrictions, these 4 positions are restricted from any activity related to criminal prosecution, leaving a total of 17 employees dedicated to criminal prosecution (6 criminal deputy district attorneys, 6 full-time support staff, 2 part-time support staff, and 3 victim advocates).

The Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office is responsible for prosecuting any crime that occurs within the borders of Lincoln County. Currently, our five local law enforcement agencies have roughly 90 patrol officers and/or detectives investigating criminal activity, making arrests, and referring charges for prosecution. See breakdown below.

Each case is then assigned to and reviewed by a deputy district attorney to make a charging decision. Unfortunately, criminal activity does not subside during staffing shortages – leading to an increase in caseload that often becomes overwhelming.   

Over the past seven months, District Attorney Jenna Wallace has repeatedly requested exceptions for 4-5 key public safety positions currently affected by the hiring freeze, including requests to fill three deputy district attorney positions. However, Commissioner Claire Hall and Walter Chuck have denied those requests, behind closed doors, without any response, discussion, or public hearing. DA Wallace spoke publicly at the Lincoln County Board of Commissioner’s meeting on October 1, 2025, and November 5, 2025, pleading for immediate exceptions to the county-wide hiring freeze given public safety concerns due to crime rates, challenging caseloads, and staffing shortage. 

As of September 2025, Lincoln County has seen a 24% increase in caseload this year, while simultaneously experiencing a shortage of prosecutors, and is projected to file over 1,850 criminal cases by end of year. This does not include a backlog of over 360 cases awaiting review. DA Wallace raised fears that limited staffing and the inability to hire employees will negatively impact criminal prosecution in Lincoln County. DA Wallace stressed that if Commissioner Hall and Chuck continue to prevent the District Attorney’s Office from hiring employees into historically funded positions, community safety, accountability, and justice will be negatively impacted.

At the November 5, 2025 BOC Meeting, DA Wallace stated,

I want to make it clear as it appears there was confusion when I spoke previously. I am not asking for any additional positions or funding. I am simply advocating for the ability to use the budget provided to me and hire personnel into already established and approved positions adopted through the 25-26 budget process by you, the Board of Commissioners.

The District Attorney’s Office, under DA Wallace, has never requested additional funding or new positions. The District Attorney’s Office has consistently underspent over the past decade, contributing hundreds of thousands of dollars back to the general fund at the end of every budget cycle. DA Wallace’s freeze exception requests would leave four remaining frozen positions in the District Attorney’s Office to assist in resolving the County-created budget deficit, which seems like a reasonable compromise to promote public safety while balancing the budget deficit. Regrettably, over Commissioner Casey Miller’s objection, Commissioner Chuck refused to discuss DA Wallace’s public request on both October 1, 2025 and November 5, 2025. Neither Hall nor Chuck have made any effort to contact DA Wallace outside of public comment for additional discussion.

“I am struggling to understand why Commissioner Hall and Commissioner Chuck will not grant exceptions to the hiring freeze, specifically four key public-safety positions in the District Attorney’s Office that are essential for criminal prosecution. I need to be able to use the resources already allocated to my office through the public budget process to continue to promote community safety and accountability in Lincoln County. As the Commission Chair and member of the Budget Committee, Hall approved and adopted the current Lincoln County budget without raising any concerns regarding overstaffing or overfunding in the District Attorney’s Office. In fact, no one involved voiced concerns that the District Attorney’s Office was overstaffed or overfunded.  If Commissioner Hall had overstaffing concerns, why did she approve and adopt the current budget?” DA Wallace says her office just doesn’t have the ability to give every case the attention it deserves, while also being short three prosecutors. Until Commissioner Hall and Chuck rescind the hiring freeze or approve public safety exceptions to freeze, the District Attorney’s Office will be unable to keep up with the demand and may be forced to prioritize which cases can be feasibly charged with limited staff.

The Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office is committed to transparency, accountability, and open dialogue. The District Attorney’s Office is in the process of organizing an upcoming public Town Hall to engage directly with members of our community. This event will provide residents with an opportunity to learn about the District Attorney’s Office, discuss public safety concerns and community priorities, and ask questions and share feedback directly with DA Wallace. DA Wallace hopes Commissioner Hall and Chuck will accept her invitation to attend as panelists to share insight and answer questions regarding this impactful topic to build a safer, more supportive community for all. Date, time, and location will be released in the upcoming weeks.

Just after 10:00 p.m. on November 13th, deputies responded to the 300 block of 2nd Street in Scotts Mills regarding a wanted subject, 40-year-old Darren Lake. When deputies arrived, Lake refused to come out or surrender.

SWAT and SWAT negotiators were called in, and for several hours, officers attempted to communicate with Lake. He refused to cooperate and would not engage in negotiations.

With no progress, SWAT entered the residence, and Lake was taken into custody with assistance from a K-9 unit.

Lake was treated at a nearby hospital and later lodged at the Marion County Jail on multiple charges and outstanding warrants, including:

• Elude – Felony
• Criminal Mischief in the First Degree
• Failure to Perform Duties of a Driver to Injured Persons (two counts)
• Reckless Driving (two counts)
• Stalking
• Recklessly Endangering Another
• Attempted Assault in the Second Degree
• Failure to Perform Duties of a Driver – Property Damage
• Failure to Appear – Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree
• Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree

We thank the community for the information and tips that supported deputies throughout this lengthy incident.

DOC reiterates commitment to community safety and transparency as it reevaluates judgments and alerts victims to potential changes in release dates. 

Today the Oregon Supreme Court issued further clarification concerning credit for time served if specified by the judicial system that the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) must consider during sentence calculation that began following the July 10, 2025, Torres-Lopez v. Fahrion decision.

Oregon Department of Corrections Director Michael Reese commented, “We are aware of the continued impact this Supreme Court decision has on victims, survivors of crime, and their families. The Department of Corrections is firmly committed to public safety, accountability, and transparency as we implement this mandate from the Oregon Supreme Court.”

To protect communities, DOC’s role in sentence calculation is to take the judgments from the courts and ensure adults in custody (AICs) serve their full sentences.

Today’s clarification will require another round of reviews of court judgments by DOC. It is unclear how many sentences will be affected at this time. To ensure clarity and support for everyone impacted, DOC has established multiple ways for affected parties to ask questions about changes to sentences.

Crime victims who want to receive updates about an offender's recalculated release date should subscribe to VISOR (Victim Information System in Oregon) if they haven’t already. Visit https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fvisor.oregon.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_name=%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019a85b753a5-79ae8793-623c-41c1-b11b-016bebc0d443-000000/v1PNCVLB6AAUwldKtv5GMFRkUgDPNeOrFdhtcfNF4Wc=431. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://visor.oregon.gov/ to receive alerts about changes to an offender's current location, custody status, and release date. This system is the only way DOC can send updates to victims.

A website with examples of the sentences is available at: https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fengage.doc.oregon.gov%2Fsentence-recalculation%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_name=%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019a85b753a5-79ae8793-623c-41c1-b11b-016bebc0d443-000000/q4wNQN2Z6lIKXiUrBskzKtFGztDi-2lkuz3fpUZQ5kA=431. Click or tap if you trust this link.">DOC Sentence Recalculation

As DOC assesses the impacts of today’s clarification, the agency remains committed to communicating decisions and impacts with victims and other public safety stakeholders. Additionally, DOC has recommended District Attorneys and Defense Attorneys review judgments with the court if they believe a change is in order.

Since the implications of the Torrez-Lopez v. Fahrion decision became clear, DOC has worked diligently to implement the sentence recalculation order and alert affected parties.

• The sentences of over 11,000 AICs have been reviewed.
• Crime victims who are registered with the Victim Information Services in Oregon (VISOR) alert system have been notified if changes have been made to sentences.
• DOC has been responsive to information requests from District Attorneys and State Legislators seeking to understand more about the Torres-Lopez v. Fahrion decision and its impacts to both victims and AICs.
• DOC has shared the full list of AICs who have had their sentences recalculated with District Attorneys.

For updated information subscribe to https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fengage.doc.oregon.gov%2Fsentence-recalculation%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_name=%26utm_source=govdelivery/2/0101019a85b753a5-79ae8793-623c-41c1-b11b-016bebc0d443-000000/uH6f23SRZa9UZIZy8yRUaDKvMcofIvJhY58wL1dE7tY=431. Click or tap if you trust this link.">DOC Sentence Recalculation.

###

On November 14, 2025 Vancouver Fire Department responded to a report of a fire in an apartment building located at 3400 NE 66^th AVE. Crews arrived at the scene to find dark black smoke from an apartment on the second floor. Firefighters rapidly stretched their hose to the second floor and entered the apartment to extinguish the fire and search for any potential occupants. No occupants were found and the fire was extinguished in a matter of minutes after the first Fire Engine’s arrival.

It took the first alarm assignment of four Fire Engines, two ladder Trucks, one squad and two Battalion Chiefs to bring the fire under control. There were no injuries and the fire is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office.

Just before 4:00 a.m. this morning, deputies were called to the 3600 block of Rockwood Park Ct NE for a report of a shooting. Deputies arrived within minutes and located a 44-year-old female with a gunshot wound. She was transported to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The investigation determined the incident stemmed from a domestic violence situation. The suspect, Roger Rodriguez Molina, 30, had fled the scene. After an extensive search lasting nearly seven hours, during which the suspect evaded capture twice, law enforcement located him near the 2800 block of Lancaster Dr NE. He was taken into custody without further incident.

Rodriguez Molina was lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:

• Assault I
• Attempted Kidnapping II
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon
• Violation of a No-Contact Order
• Reckless Endangering
• Resisting Arrest

As a precaution, nearby schools were placed on lockdown during the search. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office and Criminal Investigations Unit detectives thank the community for reporting suspicious activity and providing helpful tips.

We also extend our appreciation to the Salem Police Department and Oregon State Police for their assistance in this case.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in the United States made his initial appearance today after being charged with assaulting federal officers.

Alvaro Carrillo, 32, has been charged by criminal complaint with Assaulting a Federal Officer.

According to court documents, on November 11, 2025, federal border patrol agents assisting Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers initiated a traffic stop on a silver Saturn sedan. Law enforcement officers approached the vehicle, identified themselves to Carrillo, and attempted to remove him from the vehicle when he did not comply with their commands. Carillo put the car in drive and fled the scene. Carrillo intentionally struck the border patrol agents’ vehicle during the pursuit. After more than ten minutes, Carrillo lost control of his vehicle and collided with a concrete curb. Carrillo exited the vehicle and assumed a fighting position. Carrillo attempted to escape and ran approximately thirty yards before an officer was able to take Carrillo into custody. Carrillo resisted the officers during the arrest.

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

Homeland Security Investigations is investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

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

# # #

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is proud to host the 31st Annual Shop with a Cop event this holiday season. This long-standing tradition strengthens positive connections between youth and local law enforcement, offering children a fun and memorable shopping experience alongside officers and social workers.

In collaboration with Benton County Parole and Probation and the Oregon Department of Human Services Child Welfare Office, a group of elementary-aged children has been selected to participate in early December.

This year, each child will receive a gift card to choose special holiday gifts during their shopping trip with public safety partners from the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State University Public Safety, Corvallis Police Department, and Philomath Police Department.

Shop with a Cop is funded entirely through donations from both law enforcement personnel and community members. Contributions are accepted year-round, and all support is greatly appreciated. Tax-deductible donations may be made via cash or check payable to “The Sheriff’s Foundation” with “Shop with a Cop” listed in the memo line. Donations can be mailed or delivered in person to:

Benton County Sheriff’s Office
180 NW 5th St.
Corvallis, OR 97330

“Shop with a Cop is one of the most meaningful traditions we participate in each year,” said Sheriff Van Arsdall. “It gives our deputies an opportunity to support local kids, build trust, and share in the joy of the season. We’re grateful for the community members and partner agencies who make this special event possible.”

###

Yamhill County, Ore. (Nov. 14, 2025)- On Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 5:43 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 153, near milepost 9, in Yamhill County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Hyundai Accent, operated by Jamie Lynn Price (45) of Salem, crossed the centerline for unknown reasons and struck a northbound Chevrolet Bolt, operated by Scot Bradford Ragsdale (64) of Dundee, head-on.

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

The operator of the Chevrolet (Ragsdale) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office, Polk County Sheriff's Office, Dayton Fire, Amity Fire, 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.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – Law enforcement in Multnomah, Clackamas and Clark County executed three simultaneous search warrants as part of a collaborative effort between the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which resulted in the seizure of approximately 14 pounds of various drugs and two firearms.

This case is being investigated by the MCSO Dangerous Drug Team (DDT) and FBI.

The three court-authorized search warrants are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged criminal activity involving multiple individuals.

The searches occurred in Portland, Milwaukie, and Vancouver, Washington.

The FBI, Port of Portland Police Department, United State Internal Revenue Service (IRS), United States Marshal Service (USMS), and United States Postal Inspector Service assisted MCSO with the investigation and/or the execution of the warrants.

As a result of the search warrants, investigators seized approximately:

• 3.5 pounds of methamphetamine
• 7 pounds of cocaine
• Approximately 6,500 Xanax bars
• Hundreds of lysergic acid diethylamide (commonly known as LSD) tablets
• More than 2.5 pounds of mushrooms
• Nearly 122 grams of powdered and 70 milliliters of liquid ketamine
• Nearly a pound of MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy)
• One handgun
• One shotgun
• Thousands of dollars in cash

Investigators have taken two people into custody.

Criminal charges are expected to be filed federally. At this time, no information about those arrested – nor the location of the warrants – can be released as the investigation continues.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Dangerous Drug Team (DDT) is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach. MCSO DDT is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) and is composed of members from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Gresham Police Department, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and is supported by analysts from the Oregon National Guard. 

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Dangerous Drug Team.

No additional information about this case is available for release. 

A photo of the evidence seized is being released. Media may use this with credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. 

The information contained in this news release is based on a preliminary review of the details available to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. As the investigation progresses, information may change.

###

Coos County, Ore. (Nov. 14, 2025)- On Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 10:58 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 42, near milepost 24, in Coos County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Chevrolet Malibu, operated by John William Henderson (69) of Roseburg, failed to negotiate a curve and entered the eastbound lane where it struck an eastbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle pulling double trailers, operated by Paul Cle Tigrett (54) of Sutherlin, nearly head-on. A Peterbilt commercial motor vehicle, operated by Thomas Patrick Meyer (72) of Coquille, struck the concrete barrier while avoiding the collision.

The operator of the Chevrolet (John Henderson) was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital. A passenger in the Chevrolet, William Gene Henderson (76) of Bandon, suffered serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Freightliner (Tigrett) was reportedly uninjured.

The operator of the Peterbilt (Meyer) was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by Myrtle Point Fire, Myrtle Point 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.

CASE: 19CR51044                                                               November 14, 2025

Portland, OR-On November 12, Judge Nan Waller announced judgment for 37-year-old Tamena Jaceeta Strickland. Strickland was found guilty except for insanity on a charge of Murder in the Second Degree and guilty on two charges of Attempted Murder in the Second Degree on October 24 following a stipulated-facts trial and change of plea. 

The sentence commits Strickland to the control of the Psychiatric State Review Board (PSRB) for life and also sentences her to 22-years of prison during the same time period. If the PSRB determines Strickland is stable mentally and no longer needs to be in a hospital during her 22-year sentence, she would serve the remaining custodial time in prison with the Department of Corrections. 

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Melissa Marrero prosecuted the case for the state. After the sentencing she said: 

“Our hearts remain with Deante’s family, his friends and the broader Portland State University and Central Catholic High School communities. Deante was more than an athlete–he was a bright and promising young man whose life was tragically taken far too early. He was loved by all that knew him, and his loss continues to be deeply felt across our community. This resolution reflects a careful balance of accountability, public safety and a clear acknowledgment of the devastating role that mental illness played in this case. The court’s judgment ensures that the defendant is held accountable under the law, while also providing a path for necessary mental health treatment in a controlled, secure environment. This dual approach is critical: it protects the community, honors the victims and acknowledges the complexity and human reality of the circumstances that led to this tragedy.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the Portland Police Bureau for their thorough work investigating this case.

THE FACTS:

On August 2, 2019, Tamena Strickland shot and killed her younger brother, 22-year-old Deante Strickland. She also shot and wounded her grandmother Shirley Strickland and her aunt who is also named Shirley Strickland. Following the shooting, Tamena Strickland briefly fled before turning herself in to Portland Police later that evening with her attorney. Detectives recovered the firearm and related evidence. The shooting sent shockwaves through Portland State University, the broader community and the Strickland family. Deante was widely described as hardworking, humble and deeply loved. His death prompted vigils, tributes and memorials from teammates, coaches, family and friends. PSU honored him and his family has spoken publicly about the lasting impact of his loss. 

2025 Board on Public Safety Standards & Training

 and Policy Committee

Open Vacancy – Recruitments

The Board on Public Safety Standards & Training (BPSST) and established Policy Committees have open vacancies looking to be filled before the end of the year! The current vacancies are as follows:

BPSST: All Board applications must be submitted through Workday.com 

• One member who is a representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the DOC
• One member of the Oregon State Fire Fighters Council recommended to the Governor by the executive body of the council
• One member who is a representative of nonmanagement law enforcement
• One member recommended by and representing the private security industry
• Public Member

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications must be submitted by December 18, 2025.

Corrections Policy Committee:

• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a corrections officer

Police Policy Committee:

• One person recommended by and representing the Oregon State Sheriff's Association
• One member who is a representative of nonmanagement law enforcement

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

• One person representing the retail industry
• One person who is a private investigator licensed under ORS 703.430, and is recommended by the Oregon State Bar (will also serve on the PI Sub-Committee upon appointment)
• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a private security provider or investigator
• One person representing the manufacturing industry
• One person representing the hospitality industry

Private Investigator Subcommittee:

• Currently licensed private investigator

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

• One person representing Emergency Medical Services & Trauma 

To inquire about a vacancy, please visit Department of Public Safety Standards & Training : Board on Public Safety Standards & Training and Policy Committees : Boards and Committees : State of Oregon.

If interested in applying for a Policy Committee position, please complete and submit the Policy Committee Interest Form found under the ‘Board and Committee Resources’ section of the website listed above.

If interested in applying for a BPSST position, please complete the online application at Workday Board and Commission Opportunities. (Please note that an account may need to be created if not already in Workday)

For further information regarding the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training or its respective Policy Committees, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

Thank you,

DPSST Board & Committees Staff

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on November 18, 2025.  
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/87104357650?pwd=v0184fR5jDCfcZeCRPV9qrd8Ly2H43.1
Passcode:907258

EUGENE, Ore.— Two Mexican nationals illegally in the United States have been charged with trafficking 72 pounds of methamphetamine.

Alejandra Diaz-Alcantar, 45, and Juan Alberto Alvarado-Gonzalez, 41, have been charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine.

According to court documents, an Oregon State Police K9 trooper stopped the white Chevrolet pickup on Interstate 5 in Lane County as part of an ongoing investigation. A search of the vehicle pursuant to a warrant revealed two duffel bags under the rear passenger seat. They contained 56 plastic bags and bindles of suspected methamphetamine, collectively weighing approximately 72 pounds.

The Drug Enforcement Administration is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Huynh is prosecuting the case.

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

# # #

November 14, 2025

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

Families urged to stop ByHeart formula use to reduce infant botulism risk as national outbreak investigation continues 

Creativity will be on the menu November 24 as Kelso School District’s Nutrition Services team fires up the stoves for the fifth annual Kelso’s Test Kitchen recipe contest and training.

Each year, this friendly competition transforms required USDA professional development into a fun, hands-on culinary challenge that benefits both staff and students. Teams of elementary school nutrition professionals collaborate to develop new recipes that meet USDA meal pattern requirements, incorporate seasonal and local ingredients, and—most importantly—appeal to students’ taste buds.

This year’s focus ties directly into the district’s Farm to School grant, emphasizing the use of local foods and seasonal ingredients. Staff from all six elementary schools will form four teams tasked with creating a complete meal featuring a locally sourced food item, but there’s a twist. Teams won’t know which ingredients and staples they’ll have access to until the contest begins, keeping creativity (and kitchen energy) at full boil. With just an hour and a half to plan, prep, and plate, they’ll blend ingenuity, skill, and practicality to design meals that could one day be served in cafeterias across the district.

After cooking, teams will present their dishes and discuss when and how each might best fit into school meal rotations, considering attendance patterns and nutritional guidelines. Then comes the ultimate taste test: 5th grade students from each of Kelso’s six elementary schools will join the judging panel to sample and vote for their favorite dish—alongside votes from the Nutrition Services team. Their input continues Kelso’s practice of including and elevating student voice.

Winning recipes often make their way onto Kelso menus; previous champions now served regularly include chicken pot pie, taco soup, hand-rolled bean burritos, roasted garlic green beans, and chicken and waffles.

“Kelso’s Test Kitchen lets our team be creative and gives them a sense of ownership and pride in the meals we serve,” said Kaydee Harris, Kelso School District Nutrition Services Director. “The team’s different backgrounds, cultures, and cooking styles add a wonderful variety to new recipes. And they really know their students’ likes and dislikes.”

This year’s Test Kitchen and training will take place Monday, November 24, from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm at Lexington Elementary School, with recipe/meal presentation, tasting, voting, and results happening from noon to 12:30 pm. The winning recipe will be featured on future school menus, giving students a literal taste of their nutrition team’s creativity and care.

Why It Matters
Kelso’s Test Kitchen is more than a cooking competition, it’s a recipe for success. By turning annual USDA training into a fun, collaborative challenge, Kelso’s Nutrition Services team:

• Strengthens professional skills in recipe development, standardization, and nutrition compliance.
• Supports local farms and businesses through Farm to School partnerships that bring fresh, seasonal foods to students’ plates.
• Encourages student engagement and satisfaction by crafting meals that reflect real student preferences.
• Builds pride and teamwork among staff whose creativity helps fuel healthy, delicious school meals every day.

From kitchen innovation to classroom focus, Kelso’s Test Kitchen continues to prove that when meals are made with care and creativity, students thrive.

Kelso School District recently received two Healthy Meals Incentives Recognition Awards from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service, in partnership with Action for Healthy Kids (AFHK). These awards celebrate the district’s innovative approaches to improving the nutritional quality of school meals while keeping students at the center of the process.

About Kelso School District
Kelso School District has a goal of 100% (bit.ly/ksd-100) of students graduating high school and having post-secondary plans for college, career, trades, or military. Our mission is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world.

Woodbrun, OR – On Saturday night, November 8, 2025, at 10:42 p.m., Woodburn Officers responded to a report of an explosion at the Woodburn Inn located at 1025 N. Pacific Highway in Woodburn. Upon arriving, officers found a 25-year-old male suffering from non-life-threatening bleeding injuries outside of one of the ground-level rooms.  The male’s injuries appeared to be caused by flying glass and debris spread throughout the parking lot, caused by an explosion from inside one of the motel rooms.  After getting the male to safety, officers also located a 33-year-old female and a 36-year-old male still inside the motel room, where officers found both of them suffering from burn injuries. Officers got both burn victims out of the room to safety and then evacuated the entire motel.

All three subjects were taken to local hospitals to be treated for their injuries, which appeared to be non-life-threatening.  After containing the area, OSP bomb squad responded to the scene, where they searched the room for any explosive devices. No devices were located in the room, and the cause of the explosion is still under investigation.

This investigation is still ongoing, and the Woodburn Police are asking anyone with any information to call the Woodburn Police Department at 503-982-2345 and reference case number 25-15028.

Case number has been updated.

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from November 9 to November 12, 2025, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in each of the 50 liters collected on November 9 and November 10 and three Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in the 50 liters collected on November 11. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on November 12. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on November 5, 2025.

The Bull Run watershed is Portland’s primary source of drinking water. The Portland Water Bureau does not currently treat for Cryptosporidium, but is required to do so under drinking water regulations. Portland is working to install filtration by September 30, 2027 under a compliance schedule with the Oregon Health Authority. In the meantime, Portland Water Bureau is implementing interim measures such as watershed protection and additional monitoring to protect public health. Consultation with public health officials has concluded that at this time, customers do not need to take any additional precautions.

Exposure to Cryptosporidium can cause cryptosporidiosis, a serious illness. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach pain. People with healthy immune systems recover without medical treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with severely weakened immune systems are at risk for more serious disease. Symptoms may be more severe and could lead to serious or life-threatening illness. Examples of people with weakened immune systems include those with AIDS, those with inherited diseases that affect the immune system, and cancer and transplant patients who are taking certain immunosuppressive drugs.

The Environmental Protection Agency advises that customers who are immunocompromised and receive their drinking water from the Bull Run Watershed consult with their healthcare professional about the safety of drinking the tap water. The Portland Water Bureau and Burlington, City of Gresham, City of Sandy, City of Tualatin, Green Valley, GNR, Hideaway Hills, Lake Grove, Lorna Domestic Water, Lusted, Palatine Hill, Pleasant Home, Raleigh, Rockwood, Skyview Acres, Tualatin Valley, Two Rivers, Valley View and West Slope Water Districts receive all or part of their drinking water supply from Bull Run. To learn if your drinking water comes from Bull Run, please contact your local drinking water provider.

The public and the media are encouraged to view all sampling results posted to the City’s website at portland.gov/water/cryptoresults. The bureau will notify the media and public immediately should further test results indicate a risk to public health and precautions are necessary.

Customers with questions regarding water quality can call the Water Quality Line at 503-823-7525.

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day. 

About the Public Works Service Area

The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.

The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

Traducción e Interpretación  |  Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch  |  अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या

口笔译服务 |  Устный и письменный перевод  |  Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad

Письмовий і усний переклад  |  Traducere și interpretariat  |  Chiaku me Awewen Kapas

November 14, 2025-Redmond, OR — Redmond Fire & Rescue is proud to announce its partnership with the Kiwanis Club of Redmond for this year’s Food Drive. This community initiative aims to provide essential food items to local families in need during the holiday season.

The food drive will run from November through December 31, with the collection point at Redmond Fire & Rescue's downtown station, located at 341 NW Dogwood Ave. Donations of non-perishable food items such as canned goods, pasta, rice, and boxed meals are encouraged.

“Our mission goes beyond emergency response—we’re committed to supporting the community in every way we can,” said Ryan Herrera, Fire Chief of Redmond Fire & Rescue. “Partnering with the Kiwanis Club of Redmond allows us to make a real difference for families during the holidays.”

The Kiwanis Club of Redmond has a long-standing tradition of serving the community, and this collaboration strengthens efforts to ensure no family goes hungry this Thanksgiving.

How to Help:

• Drop off non-perishable food items at Redmond Fire & Rescues downtown station.
• Share this initiative on social media to spread the word.

SALEM, Oregon— The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is now seeking four new committee members to serve on the Oregon Outdoor Recreation Committee for four-year volunteer terms starting Jan. 1, 2026.

The nine-member committee evaluates grant proposals for public outdoor recreation projects seeking funding assistance from the Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program, a grant program funded by the National Park Service and administered by OPRD.

Open positions include:

• Member representing people with disabilities
• Member representing the public-at-large
• Member representing a historically underrepresented community, or a member representing Tribal Government
• Member representing Cities over 15,000 population (Must be employed by a city or professionally associated with a city and have a recommendation from the Oregon Recreation and Park Association or the League of Oregon Cities.)

Those interested in serving must submit a committee interest form by November 24, 2025 at https://oregonstateparks.jotformgov.com/232894854468171

OPRD will review the interest forms and follow up with potential members for interviews. Committee appointments are subject to confirmation by the OPRD Director.

Committee members serve four-year terms and may be eligible to serve a second term.

The committee generally meets once a year, virtually or at locations throughout the state. Time commitment varies and includes reviewing and evaluating an average of 15 to 20 grant applications each annual funding cycle.

Ideal candidates can live anywhere in Oregon with experience in at least one of the following areas: outdoor recreation planning or design, recreation related volunteerism, or an outdoor recreation enthusiast who is uniquely qualified to evaluate project proposals through other experience and involvement.

Strong candidates may also demonstrate an awareness of statewide recreational needs, other broad recreational issues, and the importance of providing equitable, inclusive, and accessible recreational opportunities.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund Program is a competitive grant program funded by the National Park Service and administered by the Oregon Parks and

Recreation Department. Grants are awarded to local governments, federally recognized tribal governments and eligible state agencies for land acquisition, development and rehabilitation projects for public outdoor recreation areas and facilities.

For more information about the advisory committee or application process, contact Nohemi Enciso, LWCF Program Coordinator, at nohemi.enciso@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-480-9092.

At 11:15 PM Thursday evening, the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to 1010 SE Morgan RD for a structure fire. First arriving crews found heavy smoke and fire coming from the front of the duplex. Hose lines were deployed to attack the fire and several holes were cut in the roof to release smoke and heat out of the building. It took 30 minutes to bring the fire under control after it spread to the attic. About 12 units were on scene for a total of approximately 30 firefighters. A critical safety concern was observed during the incident as an energized power line came down around the building but did not result in any injuries. One adult from the duplex was evaluated by AMR for smoke inhalation and is being evaluated at a local area hospital for non-life threatening injuries. No other injuries were reported. The Red Cross was requested to assist several adults who were displaced. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office.