PORTLAND, Ore.— A Jacksonville, Oregon, man pleaded guilty today to tax evasion, not paying employment taxes, bank fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Joel Matthew Caswell, 31, pleaded guilty to a Superseding Information charging three counts of tax evasion, three counts of willful failure to pay over employment taxes, one count of bank fraud, one count of wire fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft.

According to documents and statements made in court, Caswell has ownership and managing interests in multiple logging and construction businesses that collectively employed approximately 40 employees. He was the trustee and a beneficiary of the Caswell Family Trust. From 2018 through 2022, Caswell withheld but failed to pay over trust fund taxes for multiple businesses. In 2019, these unpaid payroll taxes resulted in the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) assessing the Trust Fund Recovery Penalty. To evade the IRS’s ability to collect what was owed, Caswell directed customers to write checks to other companies or him personally, moved business funds, and lied

to IRS collection officers.

Separately, between 2022 and 2024, Caswell executed multiple fraud schemes in Oregon that involved submitting fabricated financial records to a bank, a private lender, and the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) to secure loans. Additionally, Caswell used the name, Social Security number, and date of birth of Adult Victim 1 to obtain a residential mortgage.

As part of the plea agreement, Caswell has agreed to pay $1,198,799.83 in restitution to the IRS.

He faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a $1,000,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on October 9, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

This case is the result of an investigation by IRS Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Land Management.  

Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Brassell of the District of Oregon and Trial Attorney J. Parker Gochenour of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section are prosecuting the case.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

 # # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— For years, gun violence cast a terrifying shadow over Portland. Headlines chronicled rising homicides, neighborhoods endured repeated shootings, and residents questioned whether the city could regain a sense of safety.

Today, Portland is moving in a more hopeful direction. Yet, the recent decline in homicides and shootings should not be mistaken for a solved problem. Instead, it offers an important lesson: achieving a sustained reduction in gun violence requires persistence, accountability for gun offenders, and long-term community investment.

Recent data shows encouraging progress. Shootings resulting in homicides have fallen dramatically, from 30 year-to-date in 2022 to 9 in 2026. Shootings that did not result in a homicide have also declined significantly, from 453 year-to-date in 2022 to 171 in 2026. These reductions rank among the largest seen in major U.S. cities over the past several years. Still, Portland has not yet returned to the lower levels of gun violence experienced in 2018 and 2019. Additionally, shootings are up over the past month as the city enters the summer months, when gun violence has historically increased.

This issue is about the sanctity of life. As every victim and victim’s family will tell you, these numbers represent far more than statistics—they are mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, and beloved friends and members of our community. Last month, a member of my family, innocently at a Portland park with a small child, was shot multiple times by a violent repeat gun offender—a personal and painful reminder that there is much more work to do.

Every prevented shooting is a family spared unimaginable grief. Every life saved strengthens a neighborhood and restores confidence that meaningful public safety improvements are possible. Portlanders have a right to be safe, and our policymakers have a duty to ensure they are.

This progress did not happen by accident. Credit belongs to the brave men and women of the Portland Police Bureau and its Focused Intervention Team (FIT). I recently witnessed FIT's work firsthand as its officers responded to an active gang conflict and worked to remove illegal firearms from Portland streets. Credit also belongs to the Multnomah County District Attorney's Office, which has adopted a more assertive strategy for investigating and prosecuting gun violence. Equally important are the expanded efforts combining law enforcement with community-based intervention programs aimed at preventing violence before it occurs. My office also plays a critical role, working with local, state, and federal partners to target the most violent repeat gun offenders in the county.

Maintaining this momentum will require continued investment and commitment to prioritize public safety funding. In a recent federal RICO trial against Hoover gang leaders, a gang member testified that the mere presence of police officers deters shootings. We need more police officers. We need more prosecutors. And, we need effective community-based intervention programs.

Policymakers must ensure that the police bureau, the district attorney’s office, and prevention initiatives have the resources necessary to do their jobs effectively and hold offenders accountable. Asking these institutions to do more with fewer police officers, prosecutors, and resources risks repeating mistakes of the recent past that contributed to rising homicides and shootings and left Portland neighborhoods and families to bear the consequences.

Communities are safest when accountability and prevention work together. Portlanders deserve effective policing, vigorous prosecution of violent offenders, and strong services. They deserve immediate protection and long-term solutions.

Portland is at a critical juncture. The city's story of gun violence can be a story of recovery, but only if our policymakers stay the course. Portland City Council and Multnomah County Commissioners are currently formulating budgets that will determine whether this progress continues or stalls. The police bureau, the district attorney's office, and community intervention programs all require sustained investment. Defund any one of them and the gains reverse.

Policymakers must ensure these institutions have the staffing and resources necessary to do their jobs — not for the sake of better statistics, but for the Portlanders behind them.

The next several weeks are a test. Summer historically drives up gun violence, and the outcome of local budget negotiations could spell the difference between a good summer, and one that brings increased violence and loss of life in Portland neighborhoods.

Portlanders, please urge your council members and commissioners to appropriately fund Portland’s recovery.

Statement from Scott E. Bradford, United States Attorney for the District of Oregon.

# # #

June 9, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA to revisit new pool rule requiring adults accompany kids under 14

Agency to convene additional public process and ‘recommend’ rather than ‘require’ age limit this season

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority is revisiting a new pool rule requiring children younger than 14 to be accompanied by adults at general-use public swimming pools during open swim periods.

OHA will adopt a temporary rule to require public pools post a sign with the message that OHA recommends children under 14 be accompanied by an adult. The agency will convene a public process this fall to hear input from parents, caregivers, public pool operators, lifeguards, regulators and other interested parties to inform a decision about making that rule permanent or adopting a different rule.

“After hearing from parents and caregivers of older elementary and early middle school-age children, the Food, Pool and Lodging Health and Safety Program is proposing additional discussion with the community and regulated partners to gather more input, ensure equitable access to public pools and continue to keep kids safe,” said Gabriela Goldfarb, manager of OHA’s Environmental Public Health Section.

OHA will be notifying all pool operators and local health inspectors that the agency is initiating a temporary rule adoption to amend the signage language.

The update to the state’s Aquatic Facility Rules, which were processed through a Rule Advisory Committee (RAC), were formally adopted April 1, 2025. The current language states that “Children under the age of 14 years must have direct supervision by a person aged 18 years or older.” The upcoming temporary rule will require a sign stating, “OHA recommends children under the age of 14 years have direct supervision by a person aged 18 years or older.”

For the rule adopted in 2025, OHA and the RAC selected an age limit to align with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), which serves as the primary national framework for aquatic safety. This limit was based on national data from CDC, which has consistently shown deaths in swimming pools are high through age 13, then drop starting at 14. That same CDC data show drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 5-14.

Additionally, even though the RAC agreed unanimously with the proposal to require those 13 and younger be accompanied by an adult at public pools, the extensive rulemaking process included a broad range of more technical issues, such as pool equipment and chemistry.

“Given the technical nature of most of the rules, OHA typically gets participation from pool facility operators and builders, and not the community members using the pool,” Goldfarb noted. “Going forward, when CDC updates its model codes, we’ll work to identify proposed changes that need community conversations to find the right path for Oregon.”

Those interested in participating in a workgroup for this issue in the fall can email pool.safety@oha.oregon.gov to be considered. Diverse representation for the discussion is welcomed. 

###

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports on May 28, 2026, Linn County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested Christopher Jay Webb, 34, of Wilsonville after an eight-month long sex abuse investigation.

The investigation revealed Webb used the Snapchat app to contact a 17-year-old female, from Sweet Home, who was unknown to him.  Knowing her age, he sent multiple images and videos of sexually explicit content of himself to the female.  He also solicited similar content from her.  During the investigation, investigators determined Webb used Snapchat to communicate with other juveniles for similar purposes.  In conversations with the juveniles, Webb indicated that he worked at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility. 

After executing search warrants for digital evidence and analyzing accounts and digital media, Webb was arrested and lodged at the Linn County Jail on one count of Luring a Minor. The investigation is ongoing and may lead to additional charges.

Based on the investigation, it is believed there are other victims who have yet to be identified.  Christopher Webb’s photograph has been attached in an attempt to locate other victims that may have been contacted by him.

If anyone has information regarding this investigation, or may have been a victim themselves, they are encouraged to contact Detective Dakotah Hinrichs at 541-967-3820.

Issue Date: June 9, 2026
Issued By: Lincoln County Fire Defense Board - Chief Tom Jackson
Notice: Lincoln County, Debris Burning Message

ANNUAL DEBRIS BURN BAN – LINCOLN COUNTY
The Lincoln County Fire Defense Board and Oregon Department of Forestry will establish a debris burn ban due to increasingly dry conditions. The Oregon Department of Forestry has declared that Fire Season will begin effective June 15, 2026, at 00:01. The burn ban will be in effect from: June 15, 2026, at 00:01 through October 15, 2026.

Fire danger continues to increase each year, and these consistent dates allow residents to plan accordingly. Individual fire districts may adjust ban dates based on local weather and fire risk. This ban applies only to yard debris burning.

This ban does NOT include (Unless fire weather conditions are present or forecasted):

• Recreational campfires
• Propane or patio fireplaces
• Charcoal barbecue grills

Check with your local fire agency for district-specific restrictions and guidance.

AGENCY CONTACTS

• North Lincoln Fire & Rescue:…………………………………………… 541-996-2233
• Depoe Bay Fire District:…………………………………………………. 541-764-2202
• East Lincoln County Fire & Rescue:…………………………………… 541-270-1468
• City of Newport Fire Dept/Newport RFPD:……………………………. 541-265-9461
• Seal Rock Fire District:………………………………………………….. 541-563-4441
• Central Coast Fire & Rescue:……………………………………………. 541-563-3121
• Toledo Fire Department:…………………………………………………. 541-336-3311
• Siletz Fire District:……………………………………………………….. 541-444-2043
• Yachats Fire District:……………………………………………………. 541-547-3266
• Oregon Department of Forestry:……………………………………….. 541-336-2273

REMINDER
Escaped or unattended fires can lead to fines and financial liability under: ORS 476.920 – Billing for Fire Suppression Costs
Please burn responsibly and help protect our communities.

UPDATE Sami has been located and is safe.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office is requesting the public's assistance in locating a missing person.

64-year-old Sami Redland, who has dementia, was last seen near the 4200 block of Jefferson Marion Road near Jefferson.

Sami is believed to be driving a red 2017 Dodge Ram Crew Cab pickup with Idaho license plate W5876U.

If you see Sami or the vehicle, please call 911 immediately. If possible, remain with her and provide updates to dispatch until law enforcement arrives.

Anyone with information regarding Sami's whereabouts is encouraged to contact our dispatch at (503)588-5032.

Thank you for your assistance in helping us locate her safely.

June 9, 2026

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Nye Beach health advisory issued June 9

High bacteria levels prompt OHA recommendation to avoid water contact

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is issuing a public health advisory today for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Nye Beach in Lincoln County. People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.

Visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria tend to be higher in these types of water sources.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including:

• Stormwater runoff
• Sewer overflows
• Failing septic systems
• Animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife

Even if there is no advisory in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.

Ocean waters will be re-tested after an advisory is issued. Once bacteria levels are at a safe level, OHA will notify the public that the advisory is lifted.

While this advisory is in effect at Nye Beach, state officials continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk even during an advisory.

For the most recent information on advisories, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0482, or 877-290-6767 (toll-free).

When: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 10

Where: Clark County Public Works 78th Street Operations Center at 4700 NE 78th St. in Vancouver.

What: As summer driving and road construction work increase in the coming weeks, Clark County Public Works, Washington State Department of Transportation, Vancouver Public Works, Washington State Patrol and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office are partnering to remind drivers that work zone safety is everyone’s responsibility. Drivers can expect more work zones throughout the region and should know how to safely navigate them to protect themselves, their passengers, other road users, and workers.  

At 10:30 a.m., workers from partner road agencies will share personal stories about work zone injury collisions that have occurred in Clark County in the past year.

• Trooper Dakota J. Russell, Washington State Patrol District 5 Public Information Officer
• Paul Lodholz, WSDOT highway maintenance supervisor
• Brad Fisher, Clark County Public Works construction manager
• Sarah Bartol, Clark County Public Works construction inspector
• Ryan Lopossa, City of Vancouver transportation engineering manager
• Det. Patrick Spak, Clark County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit

After the speakers, media partners are invited to interview speakers and agency partners.

Why: June, July and August are Washington’s deadliest consecutive 90 days for traffic fatalities. Since 2018, more than 1,500 people have lost their lives in collisions during the summer months, and many more have been injured. This is especially concerning for local road agencies, as it overlaps with the summer construction season when workers are on and alongside roads, completing critical construction, maintenance and repair work. Much of this work must be done during long periods of warm, dry weather.

Clark County ranks fourth for counties with the most work zone collisions in Washington, with about 80 recorded incidents each year. The leading causes are distracted driving, speeding, and actions of frustrated drivers.

It’s not a matter of “if” drivers will encounter work zones this summer, but when and where. Drivers should allow extra time to reach their destinations, check traffic conditions along their route before heading out, and focus solely on driving when behind the wheel. Work zone safety starts with every driver.          

State of Oregon v. Daniel S. Bowdoin

Marion County Circuit Court Case 24CR62772

Salem, OR – June 9, 2026 – Yesterday, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Hart sentenced Daniel Bowdoin, age 38, to 35 years in the Department of Corrections. Bowdoin pled guilty to two counts of Sodomy in the First Degree and one count of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree.

The case involved repeated sexual abuse of a child under 12 years old over a two-year period. The child was known and close with Bowdoin. Eventually, Bowdoin’s manipulation was no longer effective, and the child disclosed the abuse. 

After the disclosure, Bowdoin admitted to some of what he had done by sending a confession letter to family and friends. However, he subsequently twice attempted to contact the victim.

Bowdoin was involved in the track and field community. Despite the serious nature of the charges, he was allowed to remain out of custody and was on release during the pendency of the case with orders to have no contact with minors nor to go to places where minors congregate.  The court denied Bowdoin's follow up request to have contact with middle school children and attend track and field events.

Nevertheless, during that time and while awaiting further court proceedings, the defendant had repeated contact with a four-year-old child and went to a company picnic where minors were present. When that was discovered and presented to the court, the defendant’s release was revoked.

“This type of conduct is among the most severe that our office handles,” said District Attorney-elect Brendan Murphy. “Our hearts go out to his victim, as no child should suffer this way. We hope for healing and recovery.”

Under Ballot Measure 11, which imposes mandatory sentences, the required minimum sentence for Sodomy in the First Degree is 300 months, and for Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, the mandatory sentence is 75 months.  The court ran the two counts of Sodomy in the First Degree partially consecutive to achieve a total sentence of 420 months (35 years).

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Katharine Semple. DA Semple has been a prosecutor for over 10 years and prosecutes some of the most serious criminal cases in Marion County.

The Marion County DA’s Office wishes to acknowledge the critical and delicate work of the Liberty House and the thorough investigation by the Salem Police Department.

Due to the involvement of a child victim and the nature of criminal behavior, no additional details will be released at this time.

####

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Commission on Aging will continue their four-part series on transportation at its June meeting. The COA welcomes transportation engineers from the cities of Battle Ground and Ridgefield for a discussion about ADA compliance in smaller cities.

The meeting is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Monday, June 15, and is open to the public.

Commission on Aging meetings are held in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation options. Attend in the sixth-floor Hearing Room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or join by phone or computer through information provided at: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/commission-aging-meetings.

Commission meetings are carried on CVTV Channel 23/323 and online at www.cvtv.org. To see replay times, go to www.cvtv.org.

The Commission on Aging, supported by the of the Clark County Council, is a nine-member volunteer group that implements the Aging Readiness Plan and provides leadership addressing needs of aging community members.

Hood River, Ore. – On June 5^th, 2026, the Hood River City Police arrested Bryan McGeeney in connection with an investigation being conducted by the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office, Hood River City Police, and other members of the Columbia Gorge Major Crimes Taskforce. McGeeney is currently being held at NORCOR in The Dalles on a total of 46 charges.

Bryan Matthew McGeeney, a 47-year-old resident of The Dalles, Oregon, was arraigned on June 8^th, 2026, on a multitude of felony charges that include Rape 1, Rape 3, Sodomy 1, Sodomy 3, Trafficking in Persons, and Delivery of Cocaine to a Minor. These charges stemmed from a report to the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office and subsequent investigation. The investigation was brought before a grand jury, and a secret indictment issued, leading to a warrant for McGeeney’s arrest.

The investigation is ongoing, and the Columbia Gorge Major Crimes Taskforce is asking for help from anyone who may have had contact with Bryan McGeeney and have information relevant to the investigation. Those with information may call the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at 541-387-7077.

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 5/28/2026 - CANCELLED

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS May 28, 2026, 6:00PM 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

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
June 9, 2026

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER’S 2026 JUNIOR MARKET GENERATES RECORD COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Thousands gathered at Esther Short Park as more than 300 young entrepreneurs transformed downtown Vancouver into a one-day marketplace of innovation, creativity, and business leadership.

VANCOUVER, Wash.  — Esther Short Park was transformed into Southwest Washington’s largest youth-powered marketplace on Saturday, June 6, as more than 300 young entrepreneurs showcased their businesses during the 2026 Junior Market, hosted by the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) and presented by OnPoint Community Credit Union.

Drawing thousands of shoppers, families, and community supporters to downtown Vancouver, this year’s event highlighted the growing momentum behind youth entrepreneurship in the region. Participants ages 6 to 16 operated businesses featuring handmade goods, custom apparel, jewelry, artwork, home décor, organic produce, slime creations, and more - all developed, marketed, and sold by the young business owners themselves.

The event generated nearly $40,000 in sales, giving participants hands-on experience managing revenue, interacting with customers, and making real-time business decisions. Kids also competed in judged contests focused on business pitch presentations and marketing creativity.

At the conclusion of the market, young entrepreneurs submitted their final business results for consideration in the Southwest Washington Youth Entrepreneur of the Year competition.

Now in its fifth year, the Junior Market has become the signature showcase event of the Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver program. In preparation for the event, participants completed the free My Lemonade Day curriculum, where they learned essential entrepreneurial skills including budgeting, goal setting, customer service, marketing, and giving back to the community.

“This event demonstrates what happens when young people are given the tools, encouragement, and opportunity to lead,” said Janet Kenefsky, Chief Operating Officer of the Greater Vancouver Chamber and City Director for Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver. “The Junior Market creates a space where kids gain confidence, practice leadership, and discover that their ideas have real value. Watching hundreds of young entrepreneurs engage directly with the community is incredibly inspiring.”

This year’s event also welcomed City of Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle, who shared with participants that small businesses make up more than 95% of Vancouver’s business community and play a vital role in the local economy.

Adding an extra layer of excitement to the day, the mayor invited several “secret shoppers” to explore the market and support vendors throughout the event - with a fun surprise: the secret shoppers were kids themselves.

Since launching in Southwest Washington, Lemonade Day participants have collectively generated nearly $180,000 in net income, with proceeds supporting savings goals, reinvestment into businesses, education expenses, and charitable giving.

“We saw another lineup of impressive young business owners at this year’s Junior Market, and it shows how well the Lemonade Day curriculum prepares them for the world of entrepreneurship,” said Tim Clevenger, SVP/Chief Marketing Officer at OnPoint Community Credit Union. “OnPoint is honored to help encourage these incredible young people and support the next generation of business leaders in our community.”

For more information about Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver or how to enroll a child in future programming, visit VancouverUSA.com/Lemonade-Day.

###

The success of the Greater Vancouver Vancouver’s Junior Market would not have been possible without Main Squeeze and Presenting Sponsor OnPoint Community Credit Union and the additional support of proud partners: Burgerville, The Columbian, COLAS Construction, When The Shoe Fits, Urban Air Vancouver, City of Battle Ground, United Precision Corp., First Tech Federal Credit Union, HAPO Community Credit Union, Schlesinger Companies, Freight Trac Services, Vancouver Farmers Market, Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries, Unitus Community Credit Union, Palm Beach Tan, Grassa, AC Hotel Vancouver Waterfront, Educational Opportunities for Children and Families, Rivermark Community Credit Union, Waste Connections, BRANDIWINE Interior Design, Talent Career Coaching, NW Escape Experience, Red Dog Fabrication, Clark County Trash Pandas, Clark College, Farrar’s Bistro, Clark County Child Advocates, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Miller Nash, BIG AL’s, ANC Movers, and Battle Ground Cinema Prestige Theaters.

About Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver

Since its inception in 2020, Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver has been rooted in entrepreneurial spirit. Engaging over 8,000 young minds across Southwest Washington, kids ages 6-16 have been learning the essential ABCs of business skills, fueling their creativity, and fostering their understanding of entrepreneurship. We take pride in the fact that 35% of our participants hail from diverse backgrounds, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and community empowerment. Our initiative has made a SPLASH, generating a whopping $180,000 in net income, directly benefiting charities, and lining the pockets of these budding CEOs! We are more than just a program - we are making a difference one junior-business at a time. For additional details, please visit https://www.vancouverusa.com/lemonade-day.

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

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

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving over 648,000 members and with assets of $9.6 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

Media Assets
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1URn87rpao6nW3iIcePZTfpMqYZxUtY-t?usp=sharing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Media hotline: 503-813-6018

Oregon organizations receive e-mobility grants

Grant funding will help expand access to electric transportation

Portland, ORE. (June 9, 2026) — More than a dozen Oregon organizations have been awarded electric mobility grants, helping connect communities to the benefits of going electric.

This round of grants supports a variety of projects across Pacific Power’s service area, including the purchase of e-bikes, electric vehicles and charging stations. The funding comes from revenue generated by the Oregon Clean Fuels Program, administered by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.

“We’re proud to support organizations in Oregon that are finding creative ways to make electric transportation more accessible,” said Shawn Grant, director of customer solutions at Pacific Power. “These grants will help bring everyday benefits to communities by increasing mobility, lowering transportation costs or expanding charging access.”

The following organizations received an e-mobility grant:

• Anson’s Bike Buddies will manage an e-bike lending library in the Hood River area to allow customers to experience e-bikes before making a purchase. E-bike vouchers will also be available for up to 29 individuals. 
• Around the Bend Farms will purchase one electric truck and install two AC Level 2 chargers. This project will support the farm’s agricultural work and fresh produce distribution efforts that address food insecurity for marginalized communities across Central Oregon and the Confederate Tribes of Warm Springs.
• Central Oregon Avalanche Center will purchase two fully electric snowmobiles for forecasters. 
• Central Oregon Community College will procure one electric van for campus mail delivery services.
• The City of Bonanza will purchase one electric vehicle for municipal use, a fully electric utility vehicle for public works purposes and a Level 2 charger to support the two vehicles.
• Crooked River Watershed Council will purchase one electric passenger truck and one electric UTV. These vehicles will introduce and promote the adoption of electrified vehicles in the agricultural sector. 
• Friends of the Children – Central Oregon serves youth facing poverty, foster care, and other traumatic circumstances with access to mental health services, both non-clinical and clinical, across Deschutes, Jefferson and Crook Counties. Funding provided through this program will help offset the costs of purchasing two electric passenger vehicles to help fulfill their mission. 
• Friends of the Children – Klamath Basin will use funds to help purchase two electric passenger vehicles and purchase and install a Level 2 charger to help serve children and families in the Klamath Falls and Chiloquin areas. 
• Furnish Hope will use grant funds to purchase one electric vehicle and one electric transit van to help serve their mission of providing furniture to underserved households in Central Oregon who may otherwise lack the means to furnish their homes.
• The High Desert Museum will purchase four fully electric UTVs to provide a quieter, faster and more efficient mode of transportation for their staff. 
• Lloyd Eco District will administer an e-bike program to 20 low-income residents of an affordable multifamily housing development site.  
• Mountain View Community Development will purchase one electric light duty truck to deliver food and supplies and offer rides to appointments and other services for unhoused clients in Central Oregon. 
• North Unit Irrigation District located in Madras will purchase two electric light duty trucks and two Level 2 chargers for operations staff and district manager usage. 
• Rooted Homes will purchase and install 18 Level 2 chargers to support resident electric vehicle use and promote sustainable transportation. This project is part of the organization’s broader clean energy and affordability model, integrating homeownership with reduced transportation costs in Central Oregon.

Grant applications will open again later this year. For more information, go to our website.

###

About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to more than 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, natural gas, coal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with over two million customers in six western states. For more information, visit PacificPower.net.

Case: 21CR40036

Portland, OR- A Multnomah County jury on June 8, 2026, found Wayne Conrad Thompson guilty of Murder in the Second Degree with a Firearm. In addition Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Kelly Skye found Mr. Thompson guilty of being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm with a Firearm.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Eric Zimmerman and Deputy District Attorney Branden Meadows prosecuted the case for the state. After the verdict they issued a joint statement: 

“Violence on the transit system won't be tolerated, and we hope our riders know that we take their safety very seriously.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Detective Jeff Sharp and Trimet CCTV Security Manager Ben McClean for their outstanding work on this case. 

The DA’s Office would also like to highlight the work of MCDA Victim Advocate Alex Bidwell who brought compassion and caring to the family during this difficult time.

THE FACTS:

On August 8, 2021, the victim, Adrian Richardson boarded a TriMet bus headed eastbound on Hawthorne. Trimet video captured what happened next. He took a seat and began verbally harassing another passenger. The verbal harassment continued for a couple of minutes, and the bus operator continued to make regular stops and pick up other passengers, including the defendant, Wayne Thompson.

The three rode the bus together for about 30 more seconds, at which point the victim called the person he was harassing “white trash” and other derogatory names. The bus operator pulled the bus over at 26th and Hawthorne and yelled to the victim “get off.” The defendant also yelled “get off” at Mr. Richardson.  Mr. Richardson shouted back at the defendant who then took a pistol out of his pocket. The defendant pointed the firearm at Mr. Richardson, again and said “get off” and immediately started shooting. The entire interaction lasted about 10 seconds, and the defendant gave no true opportunity for Mr. Richardson to deboard the bus. The defendant shot Mr. Richardson a total of 5 times.

Sentencing is scheduled for July 6, 2026.

                                                     ###MCDA###

Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries (OCHC) has awarded $62,500 in grants to 14 historic cemetery projects throughout the state through the Historic Cemeteries Grant program. The funds will help support preservation efforts, tree care and survey. Individual award amounts ranged from $603 - $8,000.
 

Funded projects:

• Fence installation at the Blue Mountain Cemetery in Baker County.
• Marker repair at Eastwood IOOF Cemetery in Medford, Fairview Cemetery, Riverside Cemetery, and Sandridge Cemetery in Linn County, and St. Boniface Cemetery and Twin Oaks Cemetery in Marion County.
• Tree work at Bridal Veil Cemetery in Multnomah County, Burch Pioneer Cemetery in Polk County, and Missouri Flat Cemetery in Jackson County.
• Complete Ground Penetrating Radar work at Camp Polk Cemetery in Deschutes County.
• Complete survey at the Allegany Historic Cemetery in Coos County.
• Install security lighting at Mount Union Cemetery in Benton County.
• Complete gravel road repair at Powers Cemetery in Coos County.

Historic cemeteries are documented by OCHC and must include the burial of at least one person who died 75 years before the current date.
 

The historic cemetery grant program is offered annually by the OCHC, part of the Oregon Heritage Program at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The grant program is supported by lottery and other funds.
 

OCHC maintains a list of all pioneer and historic cemeteries in the state. The seven-member appointed commission helps people and organizations document, preserve and promote designated historic cemeteries statewide.
 

For more information about the grant program or the OCHC, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

Join us for the groundbreaking ceremony for the new HPD Headquarters on June 24th, 2026 at 2:00 pm. 
NE 25th Avenue & NE Beacon Court, in Hillsboro.

 The Corbett Fire District, which protects the Corbett area and the Scenic gorge, will sponsor their annual breakfast which funds a scholarship and  other essential community needs. Such as providing lifejackets for community use on the Sandy River and assistence for the victims of fires.

June 8, 2026, REDMOND, OR — It is with deep sorrow that Redmond Fire & Rescue announces the passing of Firefighter/Paramedic Michael Kienzle, who died peacefully surrounded by family and close friends on June 7, 2026, following a courageous battle with leukemia.

His journey with illness began unexpectedly in early 2025, when what initially appeared to be a respiratory issue led to a diagnosis of a rare and aggressive form of cancer, T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Despite intensive treatment and months of perseverance, Michael faced this challenge with the same strength, resilience, and determination that defined his life and career.

Michael dedicated his life to serving others. He began his fire service journey in 2015 as a volunteer firefighter with the Corvallis Fire Department before starting his professional career there in 2019. In 2024, he joined Redmond Fire & Rescue, where he quickly became a valued member of the department.

Beyond his uniform, Michael was a devoted husband to his wife, Lisa, and a loving father to their young son, Logan. He was known for his generous spirit, love of golf and history, and dedication to mentoring young athletes in his community.

“Michael was a dedicated firefighter and a cherished member of our fire family,” said Ryan Herrera, Fire Chief of Redmond Fire & Rescue. “His courage—both on the job and throughout his battle with leukemia—was an inspiration to us all. His legacy of service, compassion, and strength will never be forgotten.”

Redmond Fire & Rescue extends its heartfelt condolences to Michael’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved him. The department asks the community to keep the Kienzle family in their thoughts during this difficult time.

Information regarding memorial services and arrangements will be shared as it becomes available.

Facility will reopen Aug. 1; customers encouraged to plan ahead.

The Columbia County Transfer Station will close July 30 and July 31 while paving improvements are completed at the facility.

The facility, located at 1601 Railroad Ave. in St. Helens, will reopen at 8 a.m. on Aug. 1. Customers are encouraged to plan ahead and make disposal arrangements before the temporary closure.

“These paving improvements will help us maintain a safe and efficient facility for the community,” said Tatum Flowers, Columbia County Solid Waste Coordinator. “We encourage customers to plan ahead and review alternative disposal options before the closure.”

During the closure, customers may use alternative disposal facilities in Portland and Longview. Residents should contact those facilities directly for current hours, accepted materials, fees, and other site-specific information.

Alternative disposal locations include:

• Metro Central Transfer Station, 6161 N.W. 61st Ave., Portland
• Longview Transfer Station, 1150 3rd Ave., Longview, Washington
• Far West Recycling, 12820 N.E. Marx St., Portland

A flyer containing closure information and alternative disposal locations will be shared through Columbia County communication channels prior to the closure.

For questions, contact the Columbia County Solid Waste Coordinator at 503-397-7259.

About Columbia County’s Solid Waste Program

Columbia County plans, organizes, and directs recycling, reuse, waste reduction, and household hazardous waste management programs throughout its 657-square-mile area. The County also operates a transfer station in St. Helens and administers solid waste collection services and events across its unincorporated areas.

NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

June 11, 2026, 6:00 PM

Evergreen Virtual Academy Board Members are hereby notified that a Work 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 or +8 793 193 0355 or +1 346 248 7799

Salem – Oregon health insurers have submitted proposed 2027 rates for individual and small group plans, launching a monthslong review process that includes public input and meetings.

Health insurance choices for Oregonians remains strong despite broader market changes. Kaiser, Moda, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon, and BridgeSpan will offer plans in the individual market for 2027. Three insurers will offer plans statewide (Moda, Bridgespan, and Regence), and Kaiser is offering insurance in 11 counties, giving four options to choose from in various areas around the state. Providence and PacificSource will leave the individual market at the end of the year and did not submit individual rate filings for consideration.

In the individual market, four companies submitted rate-change requests ranging from an average increase of 11.7 percent (BridgeSpan) to 25 percent (Moda), for a weighted average increase of 17.5 percent. That is higher than last year’s average increase of 9.7 percent.

In the small group market, six companies submitted rate-change requests ranging from an average increase of 9.5 percent (Kaiser) to 28.9 percent (UnitedHealthcare), for a weighted average increase of 17 percent. That is higher than last year’s average increase of 11.5 percent.

The Oregon Reinsurance Program continues to help stabilize the market and lower the rate increases. This year the reinsurance program lowered rates by an average of 9.7 percent minimizing price increases felt by consumers. Reinsurance lowered rates for the ninth-straight year. Oregon has resubmitted a renewal request to the federal government to maintain this program. The Oregon Legislature adopted Gov. Kotek’s 2025-27 funding plan, which continued revenue streams that keep the reinsurance program stable.

Refer to the attached chart for the full list of rate-change requests. The requested rates are for plans that comply with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for small businesses and individuals who buy their own coverage rather than getting it through an employer.

Oregon’s individual and small group markets are under pressure from several directions with respect to the 2027 rate filings. In the individual market, the expiration of the enhanced federal ACA subsidies has priced some Oregonians out of coverage entirely, shrinking the individual market from roughly 161,000 enrollees in 2025 to about 140,000 in 2026. The small group market has gone from about 142,000 to 134,000 enrollees over the same period. This adds uncertainty and risk to insurance companies as they price 2027 benefit year products. Across both markets, filings reflected generalized federal policy uncertainties, tariff effects to pharmaceutical drugs and durable medical equipment, and general inflation – all of which have raised the costs of coverage and caused markets to diminish. DFR will independently analyze and confirm the information submitted by insurance companies related to cost drivers before approving final rates.

“Oregon consumers are facing challenging times with expiring premium tax credits, rising health insurance rates across the country, and two carriers leaving the Oregon market,” said TK Keen, Oregon’s insurance commissioner. “With the losses of Providence and PacificSource in the individual market, there are fewer options, but there are still three options in every Oregon county to choose from, and the Oregon Reinsurance Program continues to stabilize the market and keep rates lower than they would be by almost 10 percent next year.”

A virtual public meeting about the 2027 requested health insurance rates will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, July 13. A July 31 virtual public meeting is also scheduled, if necessary; however, public comment is encouraged by the July 13 meeting because the second meeting may be canceled. At the meetings, each insurance company will provide a brief presentation about its rate increase requests, answer questions from DFR employees, and hear public comment from Oregonians. Public comment will be accepted now through July 13. A web address to watch the public meetings will be posted at oregonhealthrates.org at a later date.

“We look forward to a thorough and transparent process putting these rate requests through a rigorous public review, and we encourage the public to join the virtual public meeting and provide feedback on their health insurance plans,” Keen said. “This public process not only helps keep insurance companies accountable, but it gives Oregonians the opportunity be part of the process.”

Over the next several months, DFR will analyze the requested rates to ensure they adequately cover, without excessively exceeding, the amount necessary for the insurers’ to pay for plan participants’ healthcare costs. DFR must review and approve rates before they are charged to policyholders.

Final decisions for the 2027 year are anticipated in September.

###

About DCBS: The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, go to www.dcbs.oregon.gov.

About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit www.dcbs.oregon.gov and dfr.oregon.gov.

June 8, 2026

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

OHA updates guidance for youth outdoor activities during wildfire smoke, air pollution events

Changes reflect increasing evidence of smoke’s harm to children

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority is publishing updated guidance to help families and youth-serving organizations, such as schools and athletic leagues, make decisions about participation in outdoor activities during wildfire smoke and other air pollution events.

The update to the Oregon Air Quality Guide for Children and Youth reflects the increasing scientific evidence that smoke can harm the health of children at lower levels of exposure than previously thought. All children and youth 18 and younger are considered a population sensitive to smoke. Particles in the air measuring less than 2.5 microns, known as PM2.5, can penetrate deep into the lungs and travel through the bloodstream, causing damage throughout the body.

“We fully recognize the importance of outdoor time and exercise for the physical and mental health of children and youth,” said Gabriela Goldfarb, manager of the Environmental Public Health Section at OHA’s Public Health Division. “We offer this guide to support adults making decisions that balance those needs with the reality that children are more likely to be affected by health threats from smoke, because their airways are still developing and because they breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults.”

The guide relies on the familiar air quality index (AQI). PM2.5 is one of the key pollutants tracked by the AQI. AQI categories range from “Good” through “Hazardous” using colors and numbers to communicate risk. The main changes from OHA’s previous guide are:

• At Moderate AQI (yellow, AQI 51-100), the updated guide encourages caution for youth with health conditions during short and medium duration activities, and all youth during activities lasting four or more hours. The prior guide stated, “It’s a good day to be active outside” for short duration activities.
• At Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (orange, AQI 101-150), OHA recommends limiting activity intensity for all youth at any activity duration and considering canceling or moving the event if intensity and length of the activity can’t be changed. The previous guide focused on the most sensitive youth with underlying health conditions.

• Unhealthy, Very Unhealthy, or Hazardous (red, purple and maroon, any AQI above 150) now has the same guidance at any activity duration: Cancel outdoor activities or move to an area with safer air quality for all children and youth. Previously, that level of health protection was reserved for Very unhealthy or Hazardous at any activity duration.

• OHA removed “Infants” from the title of the guide. The guide still applies to everyone under 18, but most of the guide is designed for kids who are over 2 years of age.
• Medium length activity duration changed to one to four hours, instead of one to two hours.
• The guide emphasizes that exposure can occur during transit, such as walking to school or riding on buses with open windows and advises decision makers to consider total exposure over a day when estimating duration of exposure, if possible.

See the guide for additional changes.

For organizations that wish to make the guide available online, OHA recommends linking directly to Oregon Air Quality Guide for Children and Youth (https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served//le8815H.pdf) rather than attaching a pdf version. Using this evergreen link ensures access to the most current version of the guide.

The guide and other resources about wildfires and health are available at healthoregon.org/wildfires. The guide is also available in Spanish (Guía de actividades sobre la calidad del aire en Oregon para niños y jóvenes or  https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/ls8815h.pdf).

###

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167.

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

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve February 25, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Austin Casarez-Thompson, DPSST No. 67532; Medford Police Department

    Presented by Victor Sanchez

4. Inquiry Closure Memos – Information Only

    Presented by Victor Sanchez

5. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – July 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

What: The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) invites media to learn about and tour the agency’s new Multi-Mission Aircraft.  

Background: The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is strengthening its statewide wildfire and emergency response capabilities with the addition of a new Multi-Mission Aircraft (MMA).

The new aircraft is a Twin Otter airframe that replaces the agency’s long-serving Partenavia P.68 Observer aircraft which is retiring after more than 40 years of service. The new aircraft is equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled wide-area mapping, high-definition thermal imaging, mission management software with 3D map visualization, and night operations capability, the aircraft will allow ODF to identify and communicate emerging incidents more quickly, track fire behavior with greater precision, and maintain situational awareness during both daytime and nighttime operations.

This $13.23 million investment, including $12 million in legislatively approved bonds (2023) and $1.23 million from additional funding sources, builds on ODF’s long-standing aviation program that has enhanced wildfire detection and response for decades.

Details: Media will have the opportunity to go inside the new aircraft, see the new equipment, learn about enhanced capabilities and how it will serve Oregon, and interview members of the ODF Aviation team who helped to bring this new aircraft to ODF. Representatives from vendors supplying advanced equipment will also be available.

When: Thursday, June 11, 2026

Location: Salem Air Center, 3300 25th St SE, Salem, OR 97302

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

               -Introductions and remarks from the ODF Aviation team will begin at 10:45 a.m.

Please RSVP by emailing Jessica Neujahr, jessica.neujahr@odf.oregon.gov by June 10

DESCHUTES COUNTY, Ore. (8 June 2026) – On Friday, June 5, 2026, at 12:44 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 113 in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Nissan Titan, operated by Thomas Dwayne Dooms (64) of Redmond, was traveling northbound on Hwy. 97 when it attempted a left turn into the Peter Skene Ogden Rest Area and failed to yield to southbound traffic. The Nissan was struck by southbound black Honda Passport, operated by Isaias Ishar Abianeda (21) of Madras.

A passenger in the Nissan, Mary Lou Dooms (82) of Redmond, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. She later died at the hospital.

The operator of the Nissan (Thomas D. Dooms) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

Honda passengers, Kristen Farrester (20) of Culver and Christian Luke Pyle (25) of Bend, were transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The operator of the Honda (Abianeda) was reportedly not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Redmond Fire & Rescue, Air Link Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

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

Update:

The suspect's name was incorrectly given in the previous release and should be Chardonnay Marie Benavidez.  The previous release also listed the 4-year-old as a girl which is incorrect, the juvenile is a male.

On June 6, 2026 at approximately 8:20pm, 32-year-old Keizer resident, Chardonnay Marie Benevidez, called 9-1-1 to report her children falling into and out of consciousness after she attempted to kill them, and herself, with carbon monoxide. 

Officers arrived and found Ms. Benevidez with her twin 2-year-old boys and her 4-year-old daughter in the living room of their home on Holly Ct NE.  All four were transported to the Salem Hospital Emergency Department where they were treated for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Officers located a vehicle in an attached garage with a make shift apparatus running from the vehicle’s exhaust pipe that ran into the interior of the vehicle.  This was located only after getting assistance from Keizer Fire District personnel who were able to go in and vent the garage as it was too dangerous for officers without specialized equipment to enter with the amount of carbon monoxide remaining in the enclosed area.     

The children were medically cleared and released to their father on June 7^th.  Ms. Benevidez was placed on a physicians hold and was seen by psychiatric staff before being released on June 7^th.  Ms. Benevidez was transported to the Marion County Correctional Facility where she was lodged on three counts of Attempted Murder in the First Degree.

LAKE COUNTY, Ore. (Date) – On Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 9:15 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 140 near milepost 6 in Lake County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a multi-colored KTM motorcycle, operated by John Lester Hunter (69) of Donnelly (ID), was traveling eastbound on Highway 140 when it left the roadway for an unknown reason and struck a tree.

The operator (Hunter) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and the Oregon Department of Transportation.  

# # #

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

On Saturday, June 6, 2026, detectives with the Beaverton Police Department conducted follow-up investigations based on information received from community members and the Oregon Department of Justice, regarding the unlawful possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in the community.

Child sexual abuse material investigations involve the exploitation and victimization of children. Each image or video represents the abuse of a child and underscores the importance of identifying offenders, protecting victims, and preventing further harm.

As part of Saturday’s enforcement efforts, detectives contacted suspects in five separate investigations in Beaverton. During the investigations, detectives seized numerous electronic devices for forensic examination and developed evidence resulting in multiple ongoing criminal investigations.

The Beaverton Police Department remains committed to protecting children and working in partnership with local, state, and federal agencies to investigate crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. These investigations play a critical role in disrupting the distribution of child sexual abuse material, identifying offenders, and safeguarding vulnerable members of our community.

Anyone with information related to the exploitation of children is encouraged to report it to law enforcement. Reports may also be made through the Cyber Tipline operated by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

###

ASTORIA, Ore.—The new outdoor learning pavilion at the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Astoria District Office was completed on May 27. The 16-by-24-foot timber structure is now open for community use as part of the adjacent demonstration forest managed by ODF.

“The original purpose of the pavilion was to support Clatsop County Sixth Grade Forestry Days when we started planning for it in 2018,” said Dan Goody, Astoria District Forester. “It fulfills that purpose, but sixth grade forestry days is just the last week in September so it will be available for other educational and community events the rest of the year.”

Renewed momentum for the project came in early 2025 when the local chapter of Oregon Women in Timber (OWIT) approached ODF with interest in reviving the project after earlier fund-raising efforts had stalled. Their goal was to commemorate the 65th anniversary of Clatsop County Forestry Day, established in 1960, serving every sixth-grade student in the county through an annual forestry field tour. That day is now a two-day event that has been hosted by ODF for the last several years.

Each year during Clatsop County Sixth Grade Forestry Days, more than 400 students receive hands-on experience and get a firsthand look at possible career opportunities in natural resources as they rotate through 10 outdoor stations. Those stations are either out in the open or have temporary tents. The new pavilion will be the first permeant structure for the event.

Working with ODF, OWIT led a very successful fundraising campaign that propelled the project forward. Significant support was provided by: Oregon Forest Resources Institute, Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund, Nuveen Natural Capital, Pacific Power Foundation, Hampton Lumber, Society of American Foresters (SAF), and Clatsop County Safety Council.  Additional in-kind donations of labor and materials were provided by: Warrenton Fiber Company (rock), Bill Hughes Excavation (site work), Mark Baldwin Construction (construction), and Tillamook-Clatsop Chapter of SAF (clearing and brushing).

“We are grateful to the many organizations, partners, and community members whose time, donations, and collaboration made this project possible,” said Goody.  “We plan to have ribbon-cutting ceremonies at the next 6th Grade Forestry Days September 23 and 24 to celebrate the completion of the project.”

Those interested in visiting the demonstration forest can visit any day from dawn to dusk. To reserve the outdoor learning pavilion, contact the ODF’s Astoria District Office at (503) 325-5451. The trailhead and parking area are located at 92219 Highway 202 near Astoria.

The demonstration forest originated from an idea conceived in the early 1990s by former Assistant District Forester Bill Lecture. After Clatsop Community College discontinued operation of its neighboring dairy farm, a portion of unused pasture on adjacent ODF land became available. Seeing an opportunity, Bill envisioned an outdoor classroom dedicated to forestry education. He convened local citizens and educators with a shared interest in forestry to help shape what would become the demonstration forest—a space intended for learning, exploration, and community engagement.

Today anyone can take a self-guided tour of the seven-acre parcel. There is more than a mile of hiking trails with interpretive signs that explain how active management of timber stands benefit state forests. It also helps visitors learn about basic forestry practices.

 For more, see the demonstration forest guide. See the ODF state forest recreational trails and guides page for other recreational opportunities in Clatsop and other state forests.

Salem, Ore. — Find out what we mean when we say “the City of Salem is At Your Service” June 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. during Salem Service Day 2026!

Formerly Public Works Day, Salem Service Day is back at Riverfront Park with City vehicles on display, City staff on hand and free hot dogs while supplies last.

During the event, kids can:

• Learn more about stormwater
• Visit Coho, our inflatable museum shaped like a real orca
• See the city’s drone team in action
• Get up close and personal with a real fire truck and rugged construction equipment
• And more!

Meanwhile, community members can meet with City staff from Center 50+, Code Enforcement, Traffic Engineering, Transportation Planning, Parking Services, Parks, Salem Public Library, Utility Billing and other departments. Staff can answer questions and discuss their current and upcoming projects and programs.

In addition, we will be accepting non-perishable food items for donation to the Marion-Polk Food Share to help those in need.

Coffee with a Deputy - Crooked River Coffee House

The next Quarterly Coffee with a Deputy event with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is just around the corner. Join us on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM for a cup of coffee and a conversation at Crooked River Coffee House (located at 146 N Gaither St. Siletz, OR 97380).

More about these quarterly events:
Every three months our office partners with a local coffee shop in Lincoln County to provide a time, space, and coffee for community members to meet our team and share what’s on their minds. Coffee with a cop events are a friendly and relaxed way for our communities to connect with the deputies that serve them.
 

These events offer a unique opportunity for community members to directly engage with law enforcement, ask questions, voice concerns, and build positive relationships. Whether you're a regular coffee drinker or simply curious about the work of law enforcement, this is a chance to connect with our team on a personal level, learn about each other’s experiences, and share local feedback.
 

###

PF&R Rescues resident in early AM housefire

Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a residential fire in the Lents Neighborhood at just after 5:30 this morning. BOEC dispatched crews with a reported housefire called in by a neighbor indicating a large tree in the front of the home with flames extending into the residence.

Station 11 with a fire engine and rescue located blocks away could see a large header or smoke column on their approach that indicated a working fire. The body of fire was so large out in the front of the home that the first arriving officer on the engine was unable to determine the size of the structure involved in the fire. The report to all other arriving crews was “large body of fire in a home of unknown stories”. The Rescue 11 officer who arrived just after Engine 11 quickly transmitted “Rescue 11 will go mobile and perform a quick 360 and update”.

The updated timestamped information transmitted by the Rescue 11 officer is below. This information was sent in order of importance and as follows (as transcribed in the dispatch call notes) that also incorporates information on the rescue:

• 05:44:39 R11 B/URGENT TRAFF VICT ON BACK SIDE TRYING TO GET TO HIM
• 05:45:21 R11 HOLD A MIN, NEED LADDER TO BACKSIDE TO GET ON ROOF, GETTING TO HIM NOW --- (Rescue Made)
• 05:46:32 R11 1.5 STY W/BASEMENT FRONT SIDE WHERE FIRE SIDE IS GOING PRETTY GOOD - EXT INTO HALF STORY, GETTING LADDER TO VICT ON BRAVO SIDE

Station 25 arrived as the above information was being sent out and got to work assisting Station 11 with the incident. Members assigned to the engine worked toward establishing a water supply by connecting to the closest fire hydrant while members assigned to Truck 25 grabbed a 20’ straight ladder to perform the needed rescue. The male resident was located on the ledge of a roof with fire growing behind him, pushing out the window used to escape the flames. He was considering jumping from the roof structure with the Rescue 11 officer communicating the urgency of a ladder at the location to limit any potential injuries certain to be sustained by the jump from the roof that was a minimum 15’ above ground level. Truck 25 was able to get the ladder placed and assist the resident safely down the ladder as flames were pushing out the window around him and heavy smoke pushing out at the eave line just below where he was perched.

In a period of less than 2 minutes the Rescue 11 officer was able to inform the command officer of a rescue need, coordinate the rescue, and provide an update on the structure involved to the command officer who was unable to determine structure sized due to large body of fire in tree preventing a good view of the home involved in the incident.

Crews encountered a significant amount of clutter in the yard and throughout the home slowing access and the progress of extinguishment of the flames. Crews used saws to cut open holes in walls and floors to gain access, used ladders on the interior of the home with stairs completely burned out, and went through many air bottles as they worked to search the home and extinguish the fire.

The Fire Investigator determined this fire started on the exterior due to the use of an extension cord powering up a smaller dormitory style refrigerator. The extension cord failure led to a fire in the vegetation and other nearby fuels. This fire extended into multiple vehicles parked on the property and up the large tree with limbs hanging over the home and then extended into the home itself. PF&R would like to remind you that all appliances should be plugged directly into a grounded wall outlet and never use an extension cord as permanent wiring.

The primary challenges on this response was addressing the large body of fire with the excessive amount of clutter and fuels littered about throughout the property, both inside the home and within the fence line. The only injury reported was sustained by the occupant who cut their arm on the broken glass of the window used during the escape of the second story living space. The occupant denied the need for transport or elevated medical evaluation.

The successes seen through the challenges were the direct result of a quick arrival by the members of Engine and Rescue 11 along with Engine and Truck 25 shortly after. A coordinated effort made by the 14 members assigned to those 2 stations certainly saved the life of the resident. This speaks to the preplanned actions employed upon arrival of Rescues-Engines-Trucks (water supply-extinguishment-search and rescue etc) coordinating their efforts in tasks essential upon arrival. The ability to act smoothly and quickly in situations like this is not only in the planning of actions prior to arrival but that actual getting together and performing these types of tasks in multi company training exercises. Multi-company drills occur regularly throughout PF&R that allows crews from neighboring fire stations to connect and go through the paces of a “mock incident” so when we face a true emergency, our crews are well prepared to work together in addressing the emergency. This rescue is a direct reflection of preparation.

Portland Fire would like to thank the dispatchers at BOEC for their assistance in this incident along with PGE who responded to assist in de-energizing the home for our safe operation.

###

CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore. (8 June 2026) – On Friday, June 5, 2026, at 10:32 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 26 near milepost 7.5 in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Nissan Kicks, operated by Brittany Ann Estella Lute (30) of Long Beach (WA), was traveling eastbound on Hwy. 26 near Hamlet when it crossed into the westbound lane and struck a utility pole on the westbound shoulder.

The operator of the Nissan (Lute) was declared deceased at the scene. Lute is not believed to have been wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.

The highway was impacted for approximately 1.5 hours during the on-scene investigation.

Impairment is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.

OSP was assisted by the Cannon Beach Fire Department, the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, Medix Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

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

Salem, OR – The Salem Multicultural Institute is proud to announce that Pacific Islanders: Navigators of the Seas will be the focus for the 29th Annual World Beat Festival. This celebration of global cultures, one of Salem’s most beloved community traditions, will take place from June 26–28, 2026, at Salem’s Riverfront Park.
 

The World Beat Festival offers a vibrant, family-friendly experience, showcasing the music, dance, food, crafts, customs, rituals, and storytelling of diverse cultures from across the globe.
 

This year’s festival will honor the rich history, traditions, and contributions of Pacific Islanders, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the region's music, dance, cuisine, art, and stories.
 

Festival Highlights Include:

• World Village Tents: Immersive cultural experiences with hands-on activities for all ages
• Live Performances: From Samoan dance to Nigerian beats, there is music and dance from around the world.
• Culinary Delights: Authentic international food vendors offering global flavors
• Artisan Vendors: Selling authentic crafts, clothing, and more
• Dragon Boat Races: Thrilling races on the Willamette River
• Beer Garden: A dedicated space for adult guests to relax and enjoy local brews
• Children’s Parade: A festive procession to kick off the event, featuring a colorful celebration of global culture

The festival kicks off on Friday, June 26, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. with “Friday Night at the Beat,” featuring live music by Sofi Nava, Kokcii, Rich McCloud, and Too Loose Cajun Band, followed by an exciting fire-dancing performance on the Main Stage.
 

On Saturday, June 27, the festival opens at 10:00 a.m. with the Children’s Parade, followed by a full day of music, dance and storytelling. The featured performers Saturday night are Two Story Zory, followed by Paradise of Samoa fire dancing.
 

The World Beat Festival relies on more than 400 volunteers each year to help with setup, stage management, and event logistics. This volunteer-powered initiative is central to the festival's success and to the celebration of multiculturalism.

Admission Information:

• $5/day for adults
• $10/weekend pass (Friday Night at the Beat, Saturday and Sunday)
• Free for children ages 0–14, Oregon Trail & OHP card holders, Veterans, and Gilbert House members

To view the full event schedule, sign up for volunteer opportunities, or learn more about the festival, please visit www.worldbeatfestival.org or call (503) 581-2004.

About the Salem Multicultural Institute: The Salem Multicultural Institute (SMI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering cross-cultural understanding, celebrating diversity, and promoting inclusivity. Through its educational programs and community events, such as the World Beat Festival, SMI works to create a vibrant, interconnected community where cultural traditions are honored, shared, and celebrated.

Update as of 6/6/26 at 8:30 a.m. 

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit has arrested Steven Williams, 39 years of age, of Battle Ground, WA  for one count of Murder in the First Degree – Domestic Violence and one count of Attempted Murder in the First Degree – Domestic Violence.  Steven Williams was booked into the Clark County Jail. Both of the victims are related to Steven Williams.  The decedent’s identity will be confirmed and released at a later date.  The surviving victim remains in stable condition at a local hospital.  Steven Williams surrendered to law enforcement when they arrived.  Investigators learned Steven Williams attacked the victims with edged weapons.  Multiple knives were recovered from the scene.

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office thanks the Battle Ground Police Department and the Vancouver Police Department for their assistance.

Northeast 244^th Street is back open for regular traffic.  The investigation is still active and continuing.

At approximately 1:28 p.m. on June 5, 2026, deputies with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported stabbing near Northeast 117th Avenue and Northeast 244th Street in Battle Ground.

When deputies arrived, they found two people who had been stabbed. A man died at the scene, and a woman was taken to an area hospital with serious injuries.

A suspect is in custody, and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit is processing the scene.

As the investigation continues, Northeast 244th Street remains closed from State Route 503 west to Northeast 239th Street. Drivers are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.

No additional information is available at this time.

CORRECTION: Some resources have been discontinued and have been removed from this version of the release.

June 5, 2026

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

As summer begins, OHA connects LGBTQIA2S+ youth, families with support across Oregon

Resources help young people stay connected, supported and safe when school-based services are less accessible

PORTLAND, Ore. — As students across Oregon head into summer break and many school-based support systems pause, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is encouraging LGBTQIA2S+ youth and their families to stay connected to resources that promote mental health, belonging, safety and well-being.

"Every young person deserves to feel safe, supported and valued for who they are," said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA. "For many LGBTQIA2S+ youth, school provides important connections to trusted adults, peers and affirming services."

Just in time for Pride Month, the statewide and local resources are designed to help lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, two-spirit, questioning and other LGBTQIA2S+ young people thrive year-round.

"We want young people and their families to know that support doesn't end when the school year does,” Sidelinger added. “Resources and caring communities remain available across Oregon."

Since 2022, OHA has helped celebrate gender and sexual orientation diversity by highlighting resources available to LGBTQIA2S+ youth during summer.

Communities, families and trusted adults play a critical role in supporting their LGBTQIA2S+ children's well-being. When families promote self-esteem, overall health and strong, affirming relationships, they protect LGBTQIA2S+ young people against potential suicidal behavior, depression and substance use.

Here are some of the local, state and national resources available:

• The Oregon Youth Resource Map is designed to help young people ages 16-25 and their allies connect to youth-serving resources, organizations and leadership opportunities. The map centers youth needs and voices, and includes services for health and mental health care, housing, education and more.
• TransActive Gender Project at Lewis & Clark Graduate School works to empower transgender and gender-expansive children, youth and their families to live healthy lives free of discrimination through a range of services and expertise.
• PFLAG (formerly Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) offers quick tips to parents and caregivers for supporting their LGBTQIA2S+ children during the coming-out process. PFLAG also has eight chapters in Oregon, including in Eastern, Southern and Central Oregon and the Portland metro area.
• The Family Acceptance Project works to increase family and community support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth, decrease health and mental health risks, and promote well-being. An Oregon page also is available.
• The Trevor Project promotes suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ young people. Education materials are available on its
• New Avenues for Youth's Sexual & Gender Minority Youth Resource Center in downtown Portland provides culturally specific support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth. Its Youth Opportunity Center is open 24/7 for youth ages 9-17 in crisis or who need a safe place to stay. Drop-in hours are Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for youth ages 9-24. Call 971-754-4350.
• The Next Door provides youth outreach in schools, life skills training and mentoring programs such as Gorge Youth Mentoring. It supports a youth advisory council, gender-affirming locker rooms and, in partnership with Columbia Gorge Pride Alliance, promotes 30 Days of Gay events as part of Pride Month in June.
• Eastern Oregon Center for Independent Living (EOCIL) provides safe spaces, community building and empowerment for two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ populations, including people with and without disabilities, and allies in 13 Eastern Oregon counties. As one of the largest and oldest two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ service providers and employers in Eastern Oregon, EOCIL proudly serves the two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ communities of Baker, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Hood River, Malheur, Morrow, Sherman, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco and Wheeler counties.
• The Living Room provides support to GLBTQQ (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning) youth in Clackamas County through drop-in activities, events, school support and community education. It believes all youth deserve a safe place to be themselves, be supported, and be comfortable and accepted in their own skin.
• Transponder is a transgender-founded and led nonprofit based in Eugene, providing support, resources, and education for the transgender and gender-diverse community and their allies. Its mission is to foster healthy communities through wellness programs, support meetings, socials, and special events; trans-inclusive resources; and training and consultation services to improve the lives and outcomes of LGBTQIA2S people, emphasizing trans and gender-diverse Oregonians.
• Rainbow Youth creates safe and welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth and their friends to find connection, support, and friendship. It promotes sexuality and gender acceptance (SAGA) through weekly gatherings, social activities and individual support.
• Sankofa Collective (formerly PFLAG Portland Black Chapter) is a home for Portland’s Black LGBTQ community. Its mission is to bring together communities so that people living at the intersections of these important identities are free to be their full selves.
• The Marie Equi Center works to enrich the health of the trans, queer, intersex and gender-diverse communities through trauma-informed care, culturally affirming services and social justice advocacy.
• Rogue Trans is a grassroots nonprofit led by and for transgender people that is committed to fostering community and support for transgender, non-binary and gender-diverse individuals. It is committed to building affirming spaces, fostering community connection, and connecting individuals with vital resources and support to empower trans lives and promote acceptance.
• Oregon LGBTQ Support, from Oregon LGBTQ Youth & Family Resources, lists resources that focus on providing services and support to reduce mental health risks and promote well-being for LGBTQ young people.

OHA works with other state agencies, counties, Tribal nations, communities and advocacy groups across the state to ensure youth in Oregon have access to support and services, including offering links and contact information to help lines and other resources:

• The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7, is for people in any type of behavioral health crisis, such as mental health-related distress, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or substance use crisis. People can get help by calling 988, texting 988 or chatting online at 988lifeline.org or the Spanish option here.

  • 988 Oregon is a state specific program that is available in English and Spanish.

• Oregon Alliance to Prevent Suicide is dedicated to preventing youth and young adults in Oregon from dying by suicide.
• The YouthLine offers peer-to-peer help, support and crisis intervention for youth ages 10-24. Phone, text, and chat support are available where trained youth respond from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Pacific Time, every day of the year (Adults are available by phone at all other times).  
  • Call: 877-968-8491
  • Text: teen2teen to 839863
  • Chat: theyouthline.org 

# # #

HARNEY COUNTY, Ore. (5 June 2026) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is seeking information regarding an investigation into a deer that was shot with an arrow in Harney County.  

On the morning of May 21, 2026, OSP Fish and Wildlife was notified that a deer shot by an arrow was found alive within the city of Burns. Responding agencies included OSP, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Burns Police Department. The deer was tranquilized and an arrow removed from the animal’s head. The deer was subsequently euthanized for humane reasons. It is believed the deer was shot somewhere in or near the city limits of Burns, though the exact time of the incident is unknown.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Turn In Poachers hotline at 1-800-452-7888 or call OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26163743. Tips may remain anonymous.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board.

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.  

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$400 Game Fish & Shellfish
$400 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

Rewards for Game Fish & Shellfish and Snagging/Attempting to Snag are sponsored, in part, by Northwest Steelheaders Association and Coastal Conservation Association.

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox

$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$10,000 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and $11,500 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and north of Highway 20

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)

TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

For more information visit the Oregon State Police Turn-in-Poachers (TIP) web page.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

Date: 6/8/26

Budget Hearing: 5:30pm

Board Meeting: 6pm

Location: Hockinson Community Center &  Zoom

Address: 15916 NE 182nd Ave  Brush Prairie, WA 98606

On Thursday, June 4, 2026, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Hillsboro Police Department conducted a child predator sting where investigators used multiple dating applications, social media sites, and other online platforms to pose as underage boys and girls. The people contacted the profiles online and offered to meet a person they believed to be a child for sex. When individuals arrived to meet the child or took substantial steps toward that, they were instead contacted by law enforcement and arrested.

During the mission, several individuals immediately terminated their conversations when they realized they were speaking to someone who explicitly provided their specific age and identified as a minor.

The following people were arrested for luring a minor and online sexual corruption of a child:

• Ashwin Chand, 23, of Beaverton
• Brendan Cook, 22, of Portland
• Craig Xiap-Jelkes, 28, of Hillsboro
• Christopher Stone, 38, of Hillsboro
• Robert Gerdes, 60, of Hillsboro

Detectives believe there may be more victims of these individuals.

The Sheriff’s Office regularly conducts undercover operations, both full-scale stings and day-to-day chats, targeting child predators. The Sheriff’s Office receives thousands of child abuse reports each year, and these proactive missions are designed to identify and contact people before they victimize an actual child.

Parents are encouraged to help their children be safe online and to be aware of the websites and mobile applications their kids are using. The Sheriff’s Office provides online safety education for parents and community organizations upon request.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Beaverton Police Department for their partnership in assisting with the sting.

Anyone with information about any of the individuals listed is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at 503-846-2500.

The release of these booking photos is for law enforcement purposes and is in accordance with Oregon House Bill 3273 for the identification of additional criminal activity.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is beginning work to replace the existing intersection of Northeast 182nd Avenue and Risto Road with a single-lane roundabout. Other improvements include reducing the slope at Northeast 199th Street/Northeast Risto Road and Northeast 176th Avenue. Northeast 182nd Avenue will also be resurfaced from Northeast 167th Avenue to the north side of the Salmon Creek bridge on Northeast 182nd Avenue.

Road closures for project construction will begin this month. Starting June 22, Northeast Risto Road will be closed between Northeast 176th and Northeast 182nd avenues. Northeast 182nd Avenue will be closed between Northeast Risto Road and approximately a tenth of a mile south, where the road crosses Salmon Creek. Public Works is notifying local residents and working directly with those located in and near the project area to maintain access to their property during construction-related closures.

Project information and updates can be found at the project website at clark.wa.gov/public-works/northeast-182nd-avenue/northeast-risto-road.

For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor. Residents can also visit clark.wa.gov/public-works to sign up for email notifications.

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

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

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

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

###

CLATSOP COUNTY, OR — Clatsop County is eligible for federal disaster recovery assistance for damage resulting from the severe storms that occurred across Oregon in December.

Federal disaster recovery assistance is available through FEMA's Public Assistance Program for the December 2025 severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides (DR-4907-OR).

Eligible organizations have a limited window to apply. All Requests for Public Assistance must be submitted no later than June 27, 2026.

How to apply

Local governments, Tribal governments, special districts, and certain private nonprofit organizations that sustained disaster-related damage are encouraged to begin the application process immediately. Organizations that are not currently registered with FEMA's Grants Portal and sam.gov may need additional time to complete required registrations before applying.

Virtual Applicant Briefing on June 10

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management will host a Virtual Applicant Briefing at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, to provide an overview of program requirements, applicant eligibility, and the application process.

While participation is optional, potential applicants are strongly encouraged to attend.

FEMA Public Assistance Program

The FEMA Public Assistance Program provides federal funding to eligible state, local, Tribal, and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency response activities and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged public infrastructure and facilities.

For this disaster declaration, FEMA may reimburse up to 75 percent of eligible project costs, with applicants responsible for the remaining 25 percent.

Need Assistance?

Organizations needing help with FEMA Grants Portal access, account setup, eligibility questions, or the application process should contact OEM Public Assistance staff at ecovery@oem.oregon.gov">oem.pa-recovery@oem.oregon.gov

Additional information about this event, available federal assistance programs and application resources can be found at Clatsop County Federal Assistance Programs.

###

Portland, Ore. — Leadership from the U.S. Navy, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), the Governor’s Office, the Oregon Department of Human Services Office of Resilience and Emergency Management (OREM), and the Port of Portland attended the 2026 Defense Support to Civil Authorities (DSCA) Senior Leadership Seminar yesterday, June 4, held at Portland International Airport (PDX). 

The seminar brought together senior leaders and planners from local, state, federal, tribal, and military agencies to strengthen coordination and preparedness for a Cascadia Subduction Zone event—one of the Pacific Northwest’s most significant natural disaster risks.

Hosted by the  Port of Portland with virtual participation available, the half‑day program featured senior‑level discussions, scenario‑based planning, and insights into federal and military support capabilities during catastrophic incidents. An optional afternoon networking session further supported collaboration across jurisdictions.

“Preparedness is at the core of our airport operations, including a new PDX that was built to withstand the Big One,” said Port of Portland Chief Aviation Officer Dan Pippenger. “Workshops like this boost our resilience through strengthened collaboration and communication. This is essential for the region’s preparedness partners to respond quickly as a team, save lives, and keep people and critical supplies flowing when disaster strikes.”

Participants engaged in focused conversations on current response plans, interagency coordination challenges, and opportunities to enhance alignment across emergency management systems. The seminar reinforced the critical role that DSCA support plays in large‑scale disaster response and emphasized the importance of integrated planning before a crisis occurs.

“Preparing for a Cascadia event requires strong partnerships and a shared understanding of how we will work together in the most challenging conditions,” said Erin McMahon, Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. “This seminar brought together the leadership necessary to ensure we are coordinated, informed and ready to respond.”

Leaders from the Navy, ODHS OREM, and the Port of Portland echoed the importance of cross‑agency collaboration, emphasizing that unified planning is essential to protecting communities and accelerating recovery following a major seismic event.

ODHS OREM director Ed Flick added that “sea-based response is the standard in the IndoPacific region. As a pacific state, the sea services will play a key role in response to a CSZ earthquake and tsunami response in Oregon.”

The DSCA Senior Leadership Seminar series, launched in 2010, continues to provide a vital platform for enhancing regional readiness in high‑risk areas such as the Pacific Northwest. Insights from this year’s session will inform ongoing planning efforts and strengthen the partnerships that support Oregon’s resilience.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

• Oregon Department of Emergency Management, 503-934-3310 | licinfo@oem.oregon.gov">oem_publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov
• ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management ODHS-Media@odhs.oregon.gov
• Port of Portland, media@portofportland.com
• State, Federal and Local Leaders Have Concluded a Senior Leadership Seminar on Cascadia Preparedness

AMBOY, WASHINGTON – North Clark Historical Museum is in upper Amboy at 21416 NE 399^th St. in the renovated 1910 United Brethren Church. The Museum was incorporated in 1988 and opened to the public in June of 2000.

First Friday Open Mic Music Night:          June 5^th   7:00 pm Music                                6:30-7:00 pm performer sign-up               

The Museum will be open on Saturday, June 13^th and June 27^th, from Noon to 4:00 pm.

Open Door Stitchery Circle will meet on June 13^th, 1:00 – 4:00 pm

Bring your project to work on, share ideas, learn something new, join in lively conversation, and make new friends.

2025 Museum Raffle Quilt!  Crafted by the Chelatchie Quilters.  Tickets are $5.00.  Only 500 printed.

Proceeds go to the Capital Improvement Fund for major upkeep and repairs to the building, such as a new roof.

The Museum will be joining Farm Days at Pomeroy Farm on June 6^th & 7^th.

Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, The Gathering Place, 20902 NE Lucia Falls Road, Yacolt, WA

The raffle quilt will be on display, and tickets will be available to purchase.  There will be a Colonial Quilts display, a spinning display, and bobbin lace demonstrations.

The Museum will be joining the American Legion Tum Tum Post 168 on June 14^th for Flag Day.

Sunday, June 14^th, at Territorial Day Park (by the Flag area), 4:00 pm.  21400 NE 399^th St., Amboy, WA

The Museum will provide a history of the American Flag, The American Legion will perform a Flag Retirement Ceremony, and a pot luck will conclude the event.  The public is invited.

Check out our Website!!                              northclarkhistoricalmuseum.com           

Stay tuned to our website for the new and exciting events planned for this year!

Board of Directors business meetings:                   Guests are welcome to attend and view the proceedings.

Thursday, June 11^th                                                         7:00 pm               Business meeting via Zoom

                                                                                                Contact museumnch88@gmail.com for link

Wednesday, June 24^th                                                   2:00-4:00 pm     Business meeting In House

Tours are available upon request:           contact 360-247-5800 and leave a message to schedule

or email museumnch88@gmail.com

No Admission Fee.          Donations appreciated.                Wheelchair accessible.                 Air conditioned.

For more information, please contact 360-247-5800 and leave a message or email museumnch88@gmail.com.

###

The North Clark Historical Museum was founded in 1988 and is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors. The doors were opened in June of 2000. Mission Statement:   To preserve North Clark County’s natural and cultural history through collections and exhibits, and to sponsor educational programs and research opportunities for the enrichment of the public. 

June 5, 2026

Salem, OR) – Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) will be issued to families who are automatically eligible beginning today, June 5, 2026. 
 

Summer EBT is a food benefits program that helps address hunger in Oregon when children are on summer break and don’t have easy access to healthy meals at school.  

Families should check their EBT card balance at www.ebtedge.com to confirm receipt. Summer EBT provides $120 for each eligible child to buy food. 

This is the third year of Oregon’s Summer EBT program, which is administered by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and Oregon Department of Education (ODE). The program expects to serve about 360,000 children this year.   

Families who didn’t automatically get Summer EBT on June 5, 2026, should check program requirements before applying. Families can check requirements at sebt.oregon.gov or by contacting the Summer EBT Call Center at 833-673-7328. The Call Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., PDT. Apply online in English and Spanish or with a paper application in multiple languages at sebt.oregon.gov.   

“Access to nutritious food is essential to children’s health, well-being, and learning,” Oregon Department of Education Director Dr. Charlene Williams said. “Summer EBT provides important support to families during the summer months, and we encourage eligible families to take advantage of this resource.” 

Summer EBT is an evidence-based program proven to reduce child hunger and support healthier diets. With this help, families will be able to spend more than $43 million in their local grocery stores, farmers markets and other places.  

“We know summer can be especially hard for families who are already struggling to keep food on the table,” said ODHS Director Liesl Wendt. “When school is out, many children lose access to regular school meals, and no child should have to worry about being hungry. Summer EBT helps families buy healthy food and gives kids the nutrition they need to grow, learn, and enjoy their summer. Our goal is to make sure every eligible child in Oregon can access this support.” 

Who is eligible for Summer EBT food benefits? 

Families can find details about Summer EBT at sebt.oregon.gov.  

Families will get benefits automatically on their Oregon EBT card if they have children between the ages of 6-18 and have received one of the following at any time during the 2025-26 school year: 

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits 

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash assistance 

• Medicaid, if household income is below 185 percent of the federal poverty level 

• Foster care services 

Families also may automatically receive benefits if they have children who: 

• Were determined by their school to have a status as migrant, houseless or runaway. 

• Took part in the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations. 

• Attended a Head Start program that was part of the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program. 

Families may need to apply if: 

• Their household meets income requirements for free or reduced-price school meals. 

• Their child attends a school that was part of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP). 

Important Summer EBT dates: 

• June 5, 2026 – The online application opens and applications begin processing. 

• Sept. 1, 2026 – Application deadline. 

• Sept. 25, 2026 – The Summer EBT call center closes. 

Children cannot receive 2026 Summer EBT benefits in multiple states. The program invites families to apply if they have children living in Oregon during the 2025-26 school year. Summer EBT benefits are not considered in a public charge test and are available to children regardless of immigration status.   

Additional resources:  

• Families can double their money by up to $20 per day at participating Oregon Farmers Markers, Community Supported Agriculture farms (CSAs) and grocery stores using Double Up Food Bucks  

• Information about Food resources in Oregon 

• Find summer meal sites  

County Residents Can Recycle Mattresses and Box Springs at No Cost

ST. HELENS, Ore., Jun. 5, 2026 — Columbia County residents can recycle unwanted mattresses and box springs free of charge during a mattress recycling event on Saturday, June 13, at the Columbia County Transfer Station.

"Mattresses can take up a lot of space in the landfill, but many of the materials inside them can be recycled," said Tatum Flowers, Solid Waste Coordinator for Columbia County. "This event gives residents a simple, free way to get rid of old mattresses and box springs while helping reduce waste in our community."

The event will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Columbia County Transfer Station, located at 1601 Railroad Avenue in St. Helens.

The event is open to Columbia County residents only.

Each household may drop off up to five mattresses and/or box springs at no cost.

Most mattress and box spring types are accepted for recycling. Air mattresses, crib mattresses, and other bedding-related products and furniture are not eligible. Residents are encouraged to review the attached flyer for complete eligibility information and should secure mattresses tightly during transport to help prevent roadway hazards.

The event is held in partnership with the Mattress Recycling Council's Bye Bye Mattress program. Recovered materials can be recycled into products such as steel, wood, foam, and fibers. Additional information is available at https://byebyemattress.com.

ABOUT COLUMBIA COUNTY'S SOLID WASTE PROGRAM

Columbia County plans, organizes, and directs recycling, reuse, waste reduction, and household hazardous waste management programs throughout its 657-square-mile area. The County also operates a transfer station in St. Helens and administers solid waste collection services and events across its unincorporated areas.

###

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a deadly two-vehicle crash that occurred early Friday morning.

Just before 2:45 a.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, the Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC) received a 911 call from a community member reporting a crash involving a motorcycle and a car in the 23300 block of Northeast Glisan Street.

When deputies, firefighters, and paramedics arrived, they found the motorcyclist unresponsive on the ground with critical injuries. Paramedics took the rider to the hospital, where they later died.

Based on the preliminary investigation, the motorcyclist crashed into the back of a vehicle. There were no other injuries reported on scene.

The driver of the car, a 26-year-old, was not injured and remained on scene to cooperate with investigators.

Deputies shut down Northeast Glisan Street in both directions for several hours to process the scene, take photos, and look for surveillance video. Deputies notified TriMet of the closure, and the road fully reopened shortly before 5:45 a.m.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is withholding the motorcyclist’s name pending next-of-kin notification, and no additional information is available for release at this time.

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. 

When reporting on this incident, and using the photos released, please credit the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office in full. Because there are multiple "MCSO" agencies within the state of Oregon (including Marion, Morrow, and Malheur counties), using the full agency name ensures clarity and geographical accuracy.

The East County Vehicular Crimes Team consists of specially trained law enforcement members from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Gresham Police Department and Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. This team investigates serious and deadly vehicle crashes and vehicular crimes in Gresham, Fairview, Maywood Park, Troutdale, Wood Village and unincorporated Multnomah County.

Image: A drone view looking down a multi-lane roadway at dawn. A motorcycle lies on its side in the far right lane next to a dense line of tall evergreen trees, while an MCSO vehicle with flashing blue lights blocks the distant intersection.

Image: A high-angle drone photograph showing an empty, multi-lane road bordered by manicured green lawns and parking lots on the left and a thick canopy of pine trees on the right. A single motorcycle is down in the right-hand lane, and an MCSO patrol SUV blocks the road further in the distance.

The City of Troutdale appreciates its longstanding partnership with the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, and the dedicated service Sheriff's Office personnel have provided to our community over the past decade. As part of its ongoing responsibility to ensure the long-term sustainability, effectiveness, and affordability of public safety services, the City is evaluating multiple service delivery models, including the potential creation of a locally controlled Troutdale Police Department. No final decision has been made, and the City remains committed to a transparent public process that carefully considers operational, financial, and community impacts. While we respect the Sheriff's Office's perspective, several statements made regarding the City's proposal reflect assumptions about a staffing model that has not been finalized and do not fully represent the options currently under evaluation.

The City is conducting a comprehensive analysis of staffing, deployment, supervision, investigative capacity, emergency response, and regional partnerships. Preliminary planning models include strategies to provide 24-hour police coverage while concentrating personnel during periods of highest call volume and community need. As with many municipal police agencies throughout Oregon, specialized services such as SWAT, major crimes investigations, hostage negotiation, crisis response, and other regional law enforcement functions may continue to be provided through intergovernmental agreements and cooperative partnerships.
 

It is important for residents to understand that participation in regional public safety partnerships is not exclusively tied to contracting through the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office. Many municipal police departments throughout Oregon maintain access to specialized regional resources through mutual aid agreements, intergovernmental agreements, and participation in multi-agency task forces. The City's evaluation includes consideration of how these partnerships would be maintained or enhanced under any future service delivery model. While the Sheriff's Office has suggested that Troutdale residents could lose access to resources such as SWAT, Major Crimes, and other regional response assets, the City believes it is more accurate to state that the availability of these services would depend upon future intergovernmental agreements and regional partnerships rather than the existence of a patrol services contract alone. Preserving access to critical regional resources remains an important consideration in the City's evaluation process and would be a priority in any transition planning.

The City recognizes that reasonable people may disagree about the best model for delivering public safety services. However, residents should understand that the evaluation currently underway is intended to compare multiple service delivery options using objective data, operational analysis, and long-term financial projections. Statements suggesting a predetermined outcome regarding staffing levels, service capabilities, or community impacts should be viewed within the context of an ongoing evaluation process that has not yet reached a final recommendation or decision. The City's evaluation is not driven by a desire to reduce public safety services. Rather, it is focused on maintaining and improving service levels while addressing the long-term financial challenges associated with escalating contract costs. Current projections indicate that public safety contract expenses will continue to increase at rates that may become increasingly difficult for the community to sustain without significant impacts to other municipal services.

The City believes residents deserve a thorough and objective review of all available options. That review includes service levels, response capabilities, local accountability, community policing opportunities, long-term costs, organizational sustainability, and the ability to maintain strong partnerships with neighboring agencies and regional public safety organizations. We encourage community members to remain engaged, review information from all sources, attend public meetings, and participate in the discussion as the City continues its evaluation process. Public safety is one of the most important responsibilities of local government, and any future decision will be made only after careful consideration of facts, data, costs, risks, and community priorities.

The City remains committed to working collaboratively and professionally with the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office throughout this process and appreciates their continued service to the residents and businesses of Troutdale.

Gresham, Ore. — A Multnomah County Grand Jury has indicted an 18-year-old Gresham man on multiple felony charges following a child exploitation investigation conducted by the Gresham Police Department.

On April 15, 2026, detectives and members of the East Metro SWAT team served a search warrant at an apartment in the 19500 block of NE Halsey St. Investigators seized two cellular phones believed to belong to Tony Melnik, 18.

The investigation, led by Detective Brendan Walker, began after CyberTips were received from Discord, Kik and Meta through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The reports alleged Melnik uploaded child sexually abusive material, shared videos in private chats and attempted to lure a minor online.

Following the search warrant, Detective Walker obtained an additional warrant signed by a Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge authorizing a forensic examination of the seized devices.

Gresham Police Detective Long, who is assigned to the Northwest Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory (RCFL), worked with Detective Wright to analyze evidence recovered from the devices. During that examination, investigators uncovered messages discussing plans to sexually abuse children in person.

The evidence was presented to a Multnomah County Grand Jury, which returned an indictment on April 23 charging Melnik with:

• Eight counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First Degree
• Three counts of Attempted Using a Child in a Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct
• One count of Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the Second Degree

"Protecting children from online exploitation remains a top priority for the Gresham Police Department," said Chief Travis Gullberg. "This investigation demonstrates the impact of our community's investment in public safety through the Community Safety Levy. Because of that support, we were able to hire experienced investigators like Detective Brendan Walker, who joined our department with valuable investigative experience and immediately began working complex cases. The work of Detective Walker, Detective Long, Detective Wright and our law enforcement partners helped identify evidence that led to these serious charges. We are grateful to our community for providing the resources needed to protect children and hold offenders accountable."

The investigation remains ongoing.

#30

EUGENE, Ore.—A Coos County, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison Wednesday for distributing thousands of images and videos of the sexual exploitation of minors, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Ryan Scott Groce, 41, was sentenced to 98 months in federal prison and 5 years of supervised release. Restitution will be determined at a later date.

“Today's sentence sends a clear message: those who exploit children will face significant consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “Protecting children and pursuing justice for victims remain among the highest priorities of this office, and we will continue to use every available resource to combat child exploitation and abuse.”

“The volume of files distributed by Mr. Groce is staggering,” said HSI Seattle acting Special Agent in Charge April Miller. “The number of victims—many of whom remain unidentified—is deeply troubling. HSI remains committed to leading the global fight against child exploitation and will continue to investigate crimes targeting our most vulnerable population – our children.”

According to court documents, from November 15, 2023, through November 11, 2024, Groce distributed at least 15,000 files of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online. Investigators searched Groce’s cell phone and found file-sharing software actively downloading and uploading CSAM. Groce’s cell phone also contained over 1000 videos of CSAM.

On Aug. 21, 2025, Groce was charged by information with one count of distribution of child pornography. On Sept. 12, 2025, Groce pleaded guilty.

Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Sweet prosecuted the case.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children is encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at report.cybertip.org.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

# # #

EUGENE, Ore.—A Junction City, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison Wednesday for possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Trevor Alan Slocum-Lammers, 31, was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release.

According to court documents, in August 2023 a cloud storage account associated with Slocum-Lammers uploaded CSAM. On July 30, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant and interviewed Slocum-Lammers, who admitted to possessing CSAM.

On Sept. 19, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Slocum-Lammers with possession of child pornography. On Oct. 9, 2025, Slocum-Lammers pleaded guilty.

The FBI investigated this case in collaboration with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office and with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations and Oregon State Police. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

# # #

EUGENE, Ore.—A Eugene, Oregon, man was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison Wednesday for enticing a minor and the father of another minor to send sexually explicit images, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Gino J. Hinojos-Castle, 34, was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison and 5 years supervised release. He was ordered to pay restitution to the victims depicted in child sexual abuse material (CSAM) that agents learned he had exchanged with others online.

“The exploitation of children is among the most reprehensible crimes we prosecute,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “Today’s 12-year sentence reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s conduct and the lasting harm these offenses inflict on victims. Our office, together with our law enforcement partners, remains committed to identifying, investigating, and prosecuting those who exploit children, and to ensuring that offenders are held fully accountable under federal law.”

According to court documents, on August 12, 2024, and October 14, 2024, Hinojos-Castle used the social media platform Kik to chat with a minor and a father of another minor where he requested sexually explicit images of the minors. From June 2024 through July 2025, Hinojos-Castle sent CSAM to users on Kik and also sent several messages describing past instances in which he said he had sexually abused minors in a Eugene park.

On July 24, 2025, pursuant to a search warrant, agents seized Hinojos-Castle’s cellphone upon his arrival at the Eugene airport from an out of state trip. Agents found CSAM-related chat applications and CSAM, which he had traveled with from the state of Wyoming.

On September 18, 2025, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a six-count indictment charging Castle with attempted enticement of a minor, attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and transportation, distribution, and receipt of child pornography.

On January 28, 2026, Hinojos-Castle pleaded guilty to attempted enticement of a minor.

The FBI investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims.

For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Policy Committee will meet at 12:00 p.m. on June 11, 2026. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/88186587421?pwd=wIhzx3A0XL9aCUuNbjCCTBsS0juzcD.1
Passcode:799703

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in an Executive Session & Working Session Meeting on Monday, June 8, 2026 in at Parkrose Middle School located at 11800 NE Shaver St

Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:00pm.

Please also join us at 6:00pm to recognize this year’s Bronco and Charger Student Champions. 

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

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

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

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Agenda items include but are not limited to: Recognitions, MHCC presentation, Student Representative board experience, 26-27 Student Leadership introduction, introduction of policy, goals review, August retreat planning and graduation reminder

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

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

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

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

Portland, OR — The Oregon Historical Society (OHS) is excited to announce three programs to recognize scholars and researchers working with its scholarly journal, the Oregon Historical Quarterly (OHQ). From a research fellowship to honoraria for writers and reviewers to an author prize, this financial support is offered at a time when higher-education, federal government, and other supports for humanities scholars have decreased.   

2026 Joel Palmer Award Winners

Each year, OHQ presents the Joel Palmer Award to the author of the best article published in the journal during the previous year. Omar C. “Slug” Palmer and William J. Lang established this award in honor of their ancestor Joel Palmer, an Oregon pioneer and political leader during the mid-nineteenth century. Family members continue to support the fund, providing increased recognition to authors. 

OHQ’s editorial advisory board votes on the first-place article, which includes a $500 prize, as well as recognizes two articles for honorable mention. The recipients were announced at OHS’s May 20 Annual Meeting of the Membership, and the articles as well as all previous Palmer Award–winning articles are available to read for free on ohs.org.

The Quarterly’s editorial board recognized Lauren Yanase’s Spring 2025 article, “‘Not fit for human habitation”: Portland’s Wartime Japanese American Detention Camp,” as the winner for 2026. In the article, Yanase examines in detail the Portland Assembly Center’s debilitating physical environment and the experience of detainees who endured and labored there in 1942 before being relocated again to long-term incarceration camps for the duration of World War II. Utilizing the excellent but limited research on Oregon’s pre–World War II Japanese populations, Yanase sheds new light on the Portland Assembly Center’s history and legacy, placing it within the frameworks developed to study other sites of Japanese incarceration.

As OHQ editorial board member Laura Shepard notes, “Yanase highlighted a history that is too often overlooked…. [and] gave a rich and detailed account of what life was like at the temporary detention facilities and nicely underscored the importance of remembering and sharing this history.” 

Two articles were recognized as honorable mentions: Diane L. Teeman’s Fall 2025 article, “A Room With a View: Concluding Remarks from the Oregon Historical Society’s 2022 Great Basin Symposium,” and Jennifer L. Holland’s Winter 2025 article, “A Gay Rural Awakening: A History of Small-Town Queer Politics.”

Teeman’s “A Room With a View” includes edited selections from her PhD dissertation and concluding remarks from the Oregon Historical Society’s “Human Experience in the Oregon Great Basin” symposium held on November 5–6, 2022, in Bend, Oregon. Teeman introduces autoethnography and discusses the benefits of archaeologists involving Indigenous community members throughout the life of a research project.

In “A Gay Rural Awakening” Holland explores the lives of lesbian, gay, and transgender people who have lived in and strived to improve their small towns. She traces rural queer politics through the lives of three Oregonians during the 1970s through the 1990s. In their work, each of these activists drew from long-held traditions of community-directed activism to face the rightward-shifting politics in their rural homes.

OHQ thanks the authors for bringing their works to the journal and congratulates them on this recognition of their scholarship.

New Pilot Program Offers Honoraria to Authors and Reviewers

Like all scholarly history journals, OHQ relies on historians, researchers, and subject-matter experts to author articles, peer-review manuscripts, and write book reviews. As many authors face personal and institutional financial constraints, OHQ’s editorial team has decided to pilot a modest honorarium program to encourage submissions and participation in the publication process. Thanks to a private donation, this pilot honorarium program will launch in June 2026; more information is available on OHQ’s “Submit an Article” page.

2027 Donald J. Sterling, Jr., Fellowship Applications Now Open

The Donald J. Sterling, Jr., Fellowships in Pacific Northwest History encourage original, scholarly, and interpretive research in the Oregon Historical Society’s library in Portland. The two fellowships offered each year include a Senior Fellowship ($2,500), which is open to all applicants, and a Graduate Research Fellowship ($2,000), which is restricted to candidates for advanced degrees. These fellowships are made possible through an endowment from the family of Donald J. Sterling, Jr.

Applicants are not required to be professional historians but must have experience in historical research and writing. Preference will be given to scholars who have suitable research topics, who have the potential of making a significant contribution to historical scholarship on Oregon and the Pacific Northwest, and who demonstrate the ability to write an article-length manuscript for OHQ. Learn more on OHS’s “Research Fellowships” webpage.

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.

About the Oregon Historical Quarterly

The journal of record for Oregon history, the Oregon Historical Quarterly publishes well-researched, well-written history about Oregon and the Pacific Northwest for both scholars and general readers. OHQ amplifies knowledge and perspectives that traditional scholarship has often silenced and sparks relevant conversations about history. It is one of the largest state historical society journals in the United States and is a recognized and respected source for the history of the Pacific Northwest. A subscription to OHQ is also a benefit of Oregon Historical Society membership, and single-issue copies can be purchased in the OHS Museum Store.

Vancouver, Wash., June 4, 2026 — The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington launched its Laying the Groundwork Campaign on Tuesday afternoon. The effort aims to grow the local grantmaking organization’s Administrative Endowment Fund to $10 million by the start of 2027.

The campaign was unveiled during the organization’s Annual Luncheon, where more than 600 community leaders, donors and nonprofit partners gathered. To help launch the effort, David and Patricia Nierenberg made a $500,000 challenge gift, inviting others to invest in the Community Foundation’s long-term capacity and impact.

The campaign comes at a pivotal moment. Recent findings from the Community Foundation’s Finding New Ways Forward report show that many nonprofits are feeling squeezed by decreased federal funding and rising demand for essential services.

“Strong communities require strong institutions,” Morton said. “By investing in the Community Foundation itself, donors are helping create the conditions for greater generosity, stronger nonprofits and shared prosperity across southwest Washington.”

The announcement follows another record year of impact. In 2025, the Community Foundation and its donors distributed $38.5 million in grants and more than $1.1 million in scholarships. The organization also expanded its SWIIFT Initiative and Social Justice and Resiliency Fund, both of which channel private philanthropic dollars toward critical community projects and nonprofit capacity building. To learn more about the Laying the Groundwork Campaign, visit cfsww.org/groundwork.

About the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington

Established in 1984, the Community Foundation helps residents create a flourishing and just southwest Washington by fostering impactful giving, trusted partnerships and civic engagement. Its team of experts has partnered with local donors and professional advisors to establish more than 380 charitable funds. Collectively, these funds expand opportunities every year by providing grants for nonprofits and scholarships for students. Find out how you can become a part of its giving community at cfsww.org.

SALEM, Ore. (3 June 2026) – Paws up for OSP’s newest K-9 recruit. The one-year-old red Labrador Retriever is currently training to join K-9 Scout and K-9 Drake to help protect Oregon’s natural resources as part of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation K-9 program. While we’ll always call him “Good Dog,” he’s ready for a new, official name.

OSP is inviting Oregon youth ages 9-17 to help name the new dog. Because the K-9 and its trooper partner are assigned to the Fish and Wildlife Division, suggested names should be wildlife, fish, or outdoors-related.

Contest Rules:

• Entries may be submitted now through June 14, 2026
• Entries must be submitted using the OSP online entry form
• The contest is open to Oregon youth ages 9-17
• One entry per youth
• Suggested names must be wildlife, fish, or outdoors-related
• Finalists will be selected from the submitted entries for statewide voting
• The youth with the winning entry will get a chance to meet the K-9 and receive other recognition items from OSP

Think you’ve got the perfect name? Send in your suggestion and help welcome OSP’s newest K-9 trooper to the team.

OSP’s conservation K-9 program began in 2018 with K-9 Buck, who recently retired from active service. Fish and Wildlife K-9s receive specialized training in wildlife detection, human tracking, and area searches to support investigations into the illegal take of birds, wildlife, and fish around the state. Dogs are trained to detect deer, elk, bear, turkey, waterfowl, salmon, and sturgeon, as well as firearms, shell casings, and other items containing gunpowder residue. Conservation K-9 teams have been instrumental during investigations into poaching, missing persons, and other criminal activity.

The new conservation K-9 team will be stationed at OSP’s La Grande patrol office, joining teams currently based in Bend and Springfield.

The Conservation K-9 program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police and the Oregon Wildlife Foundation. The Oregon Wildlife Foundation maintains the Wildlife Conservation K-9 Fund to help cover expenses associated with the canine members of the Conservation K-9 teams. Donations to the fund support the costs of veterinary care, training equipment, and other essential supplies.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

WOODLAND, WA - At the May 28, 2026, school board meeting, the Woodland School District was officially recognized for its trailblazing leadership in civic education. Bill Basl, representing the Civic Learning Council (CLC), attended the meeting to present a commemorative plaque to the board and special certificates to the Woodland High School Social Studies Department for launching the very first Civic Seal program in the state of Washington.
 

A Legacy of Civic Engagement

Before presenting the awards, Mr. Basl shared the rich history behind the Civic Learning Council. Its origins trace back more than 20 years to the Access to Justice Education Committee, which evolved into the Council on Public Legal Education (CPLE). Originally directed by retired Court of Appeals (Division I) Judge Marlin Appelwick and former Superintendent of Public Instruction Judith Billings, the council focused on educating Washington residents about their legal rights and responsibilities.

Today, the Civic Learning Council specifically addresses gaps in civic education. The organization focuses on the policies, resources, and structural support necessary to provide meaningful, effective civic learning for all Washington youth across K-16 schools and youth development programs.
 

Recognizing Leadership and Teacher Excellence

Mr. Basl voiced his deep appreciation for the board’s forward-thinking leadership and presented the celebratory plaque to Superintendent Asha Riley. While acknowledging the board's vital role in approving the program, Basl noted that "the real work for the project started after the approval".

To honor that hard work, Basl presented certificates of recognition to the four dedicated teachers who comprise the Woodland High School Social Studies Department: Shari Conditt, Kyla Keefer, Julia Stepper, and Katie Klaus.

Real Impact for Woodland Seniors

The innovative pilot program has already yielded tangible results. In its inaugural year, five Woodland High School seniors successfully completed the rigorous requirements necessary to earn the state's first-ever Civic Seal.

As a reward for their dedication to understanding and participating in their democracy, these five graduates will receive a special medal to wear at graduation and will have this historic accomplishment permanently stamped on their high school diplomas.

Through the vision of the school board and the tireless efforts of its social studies educators, Woodland has set a high standard for civic literacy that the rest of Washington state can look to emulate.

Clark Scholars Recognized for Academic Excellence and Stories of Determination

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Four Clark College honor students were recognized for their outstanding academic achievement and determination at the 29th annual All-Washington Academic Team ceremony on April 23 at South Puget Sound Community College in Lacey.

Samantha Hansen, Lindsey Quiroz, Noah Shular, and April Warnock represented Clark College as members of the prestigious All-Washington Academic Team, a statewide program that honors high-achieving students from the state’s 34 community and technical colleges. The program is part of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year colleges.

They joined more than 90 scholars from across Washington State who are pursuing transfer or workforce pathways and demonstrating excellence both in and out of the classroom. Each student received a $210 scholarship from Key Bank. They are also eligible for additional scholarships from private sponsors and transfer scholarships for four-year colleges and universities.

Samantha Hansen

Samantha Hansen discovered her passion in Clark’s Professional Bakery and Pastry Arts program. She always loved baking, but the program showed her she’d love to do it professionally, too. She has one more year in the program, during which she’ll select an externship at a local bakery. The mentorship of her professors helped shape her dream: combining baking with her love for community. She plans to one day own a bakery that’s also a welcoming community space.

Lindsey Quiroz

Lindsey Quiroz grew up around hospitals, witnessing her brother battle cancer and caring for her own daughter, who suffered a congenital heart defect. She also comes from a long line of Native American healers. As a single mom with two kids, Workforce Education Services and FAFSA funding empowered her to attend Clark. After she graduates with her Associate of Arts degree in June, she will transfer to the University of Washington to study nursing. She plans to become a nurse practitioner with her own clinic serving nondominant populations, or, possibly, a neurosurgeon.

Noah Shular

Noah Shular spent the first part of his life in Tanzania, where he witnessed his parents work in humanitarian aid. His experiences there inspired him to pursue international law so he can one day protect the vulnerable on a global scale. Running Start at Clark College challenged him academically, helped him find community, and helped him pursue his passions. Noah will graduate with both his high school diploma and his Associate of Arts degree, and plans to attend the University of Washington to study pre-law. 

April Warnock

April Warnock raised two boys on her own while working in restaurants. She loved it, but at 45, it was time to focus on herself. She decided to pursue healthcare, inspired by the hospital workers who were there for her while her mother was treated for breast cancer. April will graduate in June with her Associate of Arts degree and plans to attend the Nursing Program at Clark. She wants to work in emergency medicine and advocate for victims of sexual assault.

About All-Washington Academic Team program 

The All-Washington Academic Team is a program of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year colleges. Sponsors of the All-Washington Academic Team program are Washington Association of Community and Technical Colleges, Washington State Association of College Trustees, Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges and Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society of two-year colleges. 

Scholarship sponsors are Key Bank ($210 awarded to every member); Washington State Employees Credit Union ($780 awarded to the top 16 members); and Washington Association of College Trustees ($1,000 awarded to the top three team members). 

About Clark College 

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. This public community college offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves almost 10,000 students including high school students, veterans, displaced workers, multilingual and mature learners. About three-quarters of its students are the first in their families to attend college.   

####

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – The City of Troutdale is currently exploring creating its own city-led police department and terminating the comprehensive law enforcement services it receives from the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office.

To help explain the potential impacts, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office released a frequently asked questions section on its website.

Under the city's proposed limited model, the new department would consist of 13 employees. Because of this minimal staffing structure, the city would be unable to provide around-the-clock patrol coverage, leaving certain hours of the day with no officers on duty.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office would not be able to maintain an un-contracted "standby" presence to fill the operational gaps of a police department unable to staff for 24-hour patrols. Once the contract is terminated, existing dedicated deputies will be reassigned to other county law enforcement responsibilities.

This potential transition would also result in a severe reduction or total elimination of essential specialized law enforcement services and investigative resources. Troutdale residents would lose direct access to dedicated detectives, school resource officers, the community resource deputy, and critical regional response assets like the East County SWAT and Major Crimes teams.

Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell cautions that replacing 24/7 coverage with an understaffed municipal model lacking equivalent personnel, equipment, training, and investigative strength would roll back a decade of public safety progress and leave residents and businesses vulnerable.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office encourages Troutdale constituents to stay involved and share their opinions about public safety.   

Community members can share their opinions with city leaders by attending upcoming public meetings, which are posted on the city’s website.

###

SALEM, OR – (June 4, 2026)  — Cherriots is proud to introduce Wrapped in Community, a new initiative that puts community voices at the center of its annual bus wrap program. 

This initiative invites riders, residents, and local stakeholders to have a hand in selecting themes that will be featured on Cherriots buses, celebrating the diverse cultures, stories, and experiences that make the Salem-Keizer area unique.  

“Wrapped in Community is about creating something that truly reflects the people we serve,” said Board President Maria Hinojos Pressey. “We are excited to invite our community to help guide the themes that will be seen across our fleet.” 

As part of this initiative, Cherriots will soon launch a public survey where community members can choose from a curated list of themes developed in collaboration with staff and the District’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Board Subcommittee.

The selected themes will be transformed into large-scale bus wraps rolling out beginning in fall 2026.

In advance of the upcoming survey, Cherriots is encouraging community members to stay informed and get ready to participate. 

What to Expect:

• A public survey will launch in June

• The opportunity to help select the top two to three bus wrap themes for the year

• Community-inspired designs featured on Cherriots buses starting fall 2026

Riders and community members are encouraged to sign up for Cherriots email updates and follow along on social media for announcements and voting details.

For more information and to stay connected, visit Cherriots.org/wrapped.

About Cherriots

Established in 1979, Salem Area Mass Transit District (SAMTD) is a special District covering 78 square miles in the Mid-Willamette Valley between Portland and Eugene. Locally known as Cherriots, the District provides vital service to more than 450,000 residents in Marion and Polk counties. SAMTD maintains a total of 124 transit vehicles across its various services and provides approximately 3.3 million passenger trips annually.

For more information, visit Cherriots.org.

SEATTLE – As the United States prepares to host millions of international visitors for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is committed to ensuring the safety of fans, teams, and communities during this historic, global sporting event. 

DEA is focused on keeping visitors and communities safe on and off the field, as the U.S. continues to confront the deadly synthetic opioid crisis. Significant progress has been made in the fight against fentanyl; however, fentanyl is still involved in approximately 200 deaths every day and remains the leading cause of death for Americans aged ages 18-to-44 years old. 

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid often mixed with other illicit substances, such as methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin, or pressed into counterfeit pills made to look like legitimate medications like oxycodone, hydrocodone, Adderall, and Xanax. When mixed or pressed into pills, fentanyl is nearly impossible to detect – you cannot see, smell, or taste it. Just 2 milligrams of fentanyl – small enough to fit on the tip of a pencil – can be deadly, and many people don’t know they’ve ingested it until it is too late. 

The illicit drug supply is becoming increasingly more unpredictable and lethal, as indicated in a Public Safety Advisory issued by DEA last month. Fentanyl is now being combined with a dangerous array of synthetic substances including xylazine, nitazenes, cychlorphine, and medetomidine, which are often undetectable and not approved for human consumption.     

Counterfeit pills may appear legitimate, but when purchased online or from an unlicensed source they are likely to contain fentanyl. The only safe medications are those obtained from a pharmacy and used as directed under the supervision of a licensed medical professional. 

Your safety is our goal.  Throughout FIFA World Cup 2026 ™ host cities, fans will see DEA’s One Pill Can Kill Campaign, which aims to draw awareness about the dangerous, deadly, and deceptive illicit drug supply. The campaign encourages people to stay vigilant, only take medications from trusted and licensed pharmacists, and understand the risks associated with illicit drugs.

Public Safety Guidance for Fans and Visitors:

• Never take a pill that wasn’t prescribed to you and dispensed by a licensed pharmacy.
• Assume all illicit drugs may contain fentanyl or other deadly additives.
• Carry naloxone and be trained in how to use it but understand it may not fully reverse all substances present.
• Call 911 immediately in any suspected drug poisoning or overdose. Time is critical.
• Stay informed and spread awareness. This threat is evolving rapidly.

DEA has a robust prevention and awareness program aimed at educating communities about the risks associated with illicit substances. The One Pill Can Kill Campaign and Fentanyl Free America initiative were created to protect both visitors and communities from the dangers of fentanyl. Public awareness and prevention are critical to saving lives – one pill, one time can kill. 

The DEA Seattle Field Division is spreading fentanyl awareness through a new billboard campaign- Your Safety is OUR GOAL (photo attached), a Public Service Announcement ( https://youtu.be/xLAGLUVa-hU?si=gn6PZqwMVo-mi6RU) , as well as a new truck seized from a drug trafficker that is now wrapped with DEA's Fentanyl Free America to take to FIFA World Cup 2026 ™ events (photo attached).

DEA’s free outreach and awareness resources are available at FIFA 2026 | DEA.gov.  As we welcome the world to the U.S., your safety remains our number one goal.

###

Healthcare techs and licensed professional nurses (LPNs) at Asante Rogue Regional have been waiting nearly 3 years for Asante executives to honor their union vote 

(MEDFORD, Ore.) - In a long-awaited ruling, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ordered Asante executives to recognize and bargain a contract with healthcare workers at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center on June 3. The order is the latest in a nearly 3-year-long legal battle as Asante repeatedly and illegally refused to recognize technical workers’ overwhelming vote to be in a union. The NLRB ruled Asante must now recognize the union and begin bargaining a fair contract. The decision also orders Asante executives to provide basic information to workers including employee lists, wage data and benefit information.

The more than 250 healthcare technical workers at Rogue Regional overwhelmingly voted to join the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) on June 9, 2023 citing a need for safe staffing, affordable healthcare, fair pay and benefits, and a voice in local healthcare decisions.   

Following the successful union vote, Asante executives spent years attempting to stall and subvert workers’ will with a series of failed legal challenges. Today’s announcement is the final decision from the National Labor Relations Board, the independent federal agency which oversees union elections, protects workers’ rights and decide unfair labor practices.

“This is a monumental victory for local patients, healthcare professionals and everyone in the Rogue Valley. Asante executives are cashing outrageous paychecks while cutting local care and ignoring the healthcare workers who make our hospital run,” said Fred Katz, RN, the ONA registered nurse (RN) bargaining unit chair at Asante Rogue Regional. “Techs and LPNs take tremendous pride in their work and our community. They chose to unionize more than 3 years ago so they could hold Asante executives and board members accountable to Southern Oregonians and ensure the hospital invests in local patient care, staffing and safety improvements. Today’s order is a critical step to keep Asante’s executives and board honest and ensure they live by the same laws as everyone else. Asante executives must stop stalling and sit down at the bargaining table with techs to protect patients, retain caregivers and put our community and its healthcare first.”

The NLRB found Asante committed multiple unfair labor practices by refusing to recognize and bargain with the union and by failing to provide basic information as required under federal law.   

Calling Asante’s behavior an “unlawful failure” the NLRB has ordered Asante to remedy its violations by: 

• Ceasing and desisting its unlawful activities 
• Beginning bargaining with the caregivers’ union upon request 
• Providing workers and their union the majority of requested information 
• Publicly posting a notice it has violated federal law 

Read the full decision on the NLRB's website.

The healthcare technical workers bargaining unit at Rogue Regional includes more than 250 radiologic technologists, licensed practical nurses (LPNs), respiratory therapists, physical therapy assistants, occupational therapy assistants and surgical technicians. Technical workers are the unseen experts behind nearly every diagnosis and treatment. Techs take patients' X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds; help people recover through physical and occupational therapy; provide life-saving respiratory care; assist during surgeries; and support patients and families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. While often behind the scenes, their work is essential to the health and safety of our community. 

ONA also represents a separate bargaining unit of more than 1,200 frontline registered nurses (RNs) at Rogue Regional. 

Asante is a multimillion-dollar healthcare system that is the largest healthcare provider in 9 counties across Southern Oregon and Northern California. Asante executives have been increasingly under fire for closing maternity and inpatient services at Ashland’s only hospital; racking up more than $1 million in state fines for violating Oregon’s safe staffing law; outsourcing local doctors and healthcare workers; and leading repeated mass layoffs affecting hundreds of caregivers and their families throughout Southern Oregon. Asante executives are also facing additional unfair labor practice charges (ULPs), including allegations that Asante unlawfully interfered with workers’ rights to organize, threatened workers about the consequences of voting for a union, disciplined an employee for speaking about patient safety with local journalists, and prevented union representatives from visiting the hospital. 

###

When: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 10

Where: Location in Vancouver will be shared when an RSVP is sent to Kaley McLachlan-Burton, PIO, Clark County Public Works: urton@clark.wa.gov">kaley.mclachlan-burton@clark.wa.gov

What: As summer driving and road construction work increase in the coming weeks, Clark County Public Works, Washington State Department of Transportation, Vancouver Public Works, Washington State Patrol and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office are partnering to remind drivers that work zone safety is everyone’s responsibility. Drivers can expect more work zones throughout the region and should know how to safely navigate them to protect themselves, their passengers, other road users, and workers.  

At 10:30 a.m., workers from partner road agencies will share personal stories about work zone injury collisions that have occurred in Clark County in the past year.

After the speakers, media partners are invited to interview speakers and agency partners.

Why: June, July and August are Washington’s deadliest consecutive 90 days for traffic fatalities. Since 2018, more than 1,500 people have lost their lives in collisions during the summer months, and many more have been injured. This is especially concerning for local road agencies, as it overlaps with the summer construction season when workers are on and alongside roads, completing critical construction, maintenance and repair work. Much of this work must be done during long periods of warm, dry weather.

Clark County ranks fourth for counties with the most work zone collisions in Washington, with about 80 recorded incidents each year. The leading causes are distracted driving, speeding, and actions of frustrated drivers.

It’s not a matter of “if” drivers will encounter work zones this summer, but when and where. Drivers should allow extra time to reach their destinations, check traffic conditions along their route before heading out, and focus solely on driving when behind the wheel. Work zone safety starts with every driver.          

2026 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. The current vacancies are as follows:

BPSST: All Board applications must be submitted through Workday.com and are reviewed on a rolling basis

• One member who is a representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the DOC
• Public Member

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications must be submitted by June 18, 2026.

Corrections Policy Committee:

• One non-management corrections officer employed by the DOC
• One public member who has never been employed or utilized as a corrections officer

Police Policy Committee:

• One non-management law enforcement officer
• One public member who has never been employed or utilized as a police officer

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

• One person representing the retail industry
• 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:

• Two currently licensed private investigators

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

• One person representing Emergency Medical Services & Trauma 
• One person representing the Oregon State Sheriffs' Association

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

HILLSBORO, Ore- The Washington County District Attorney’s Office is partnering with Bridging Horizons, a local nonprofit community organization, to better support victims of domestic violence.
 

Bridging Horizons was launched in 2023 to help fill gaps in services available for victims of domestic violence. The organization supports survivors of domestic violence by providing financial support throughout the legal process. They have helped cover expenses including rent, vehicle fuel, utilities, groceries, phone bills, moving costs, child care, and other unforeseen costs. The organization has distributed more than $5,000 to 36 victims and their family members.
 

Bridging Horizons President Sangeeta Khanna works as a Victim Services Specialist in the Washington County District Attorney’s Office. Khanna saw the need to support victims and collaborated with a team of professionals to launch the organization.
 

"We recognized that survivors often face urgent requirements—such as rent, utility bills, vehicle-related payments, safety equipment, and unexpected expenses—that cannot be resolved quickly enough, said Khanna. “Our mission is to offer immediate, practical support during this critical time, allowing survivors to concentrate on rebuilding their lives and working towards greater stability and independence."
 

Bridging Horizons is also working with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office to host supply closets open to domestic violence survivors. Stocked with toiletries, diapers, clothing, food, and more, these closets serve as a vital resource for crime victims.
 

“This assistance made a meaningful difference in my stability during a critical time. As someone rebuilding after domestic violence, having support with my car payment helps me maintain reliable transportation for appointments, daily responsibilities, and my continued search for employment,” said a recipient of funding who asked to remain anonymous. “Reducing this financial pressure allows me to stay focused on moving forward and building long-term stability for myself and my family.”
 

Bridging Horizons relies on the generosity of donors to support crime victims. Visit their website to learn more about supporting this organization. 

PET SAFETY ON THE ROAD
 

Drivers and passengers alike know the importance of wearing their seatbelt when riding in a vehicle. Next time you take your pet with you, make sure they are just as safe. Many dog owners let their dog run loose in an open truck bed, not thinking about the dangers. No matter how well-trained or coordinated your dog is, they can still fall or jump out of the back of a truck.

Oregon law requires a dog to be protected by a carrier or other restraint if transported on "the external part of a vehicle" on a highway.A carrier or cage is most ideal, but if you use a leash or lead, make sure it is of a length that doesn’t allow the dog to go over the side. A two-point restraint works best to ensure the animal can’t jump or be thrown in the event of a sudden stop or collision.

If your pet travels inside the vehicle with you, remember that driving with any animal on your lap presents a distraction and puts the pet, driver, passengers, and other motorists at significant risk for a collision; a collision that would otherwise be preventable. There are numerous pet-specific vehicle restraints that work with your existing seatbelts and can be purchased either online or in pet stores. Remember to keep your pet’s collar with ID tags on during the trip and keep their license updated. An updated license (required for dogs, recommended for cats) and current contact information can help reunite you sooner if there is a collision or your pet gets separated from you another way.

In addition to ensuring your pets are properly secured for the journey, remember to pack emergency supplies. Packing essentials such as extra food and water can make a big difference if you are stuck in traffic or inclement weather.

Our pets love to be on the go with us. Show them how much you care by always considering their safety when you take them on the road.

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

Starting June 15, kids and teens ages 18 or younger can receive lunch at no cost to them during the summer. Sponsored by Battle Ground Public Schools and funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Summer Food Service Program provides nutritious meals during the summer months when children are not in school. Children and teens do not need to attend a Battle Ground school to participate. Hot and cold entrees, along with nutritious sides and beverages, will be offered daily.

• Dates: Monday through Friday, June 15, through Aug. 20 (except for July 1-3).

• Time: 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

• Location: CAM Academy, 406 NW 5th Ave., Battle Ground. All meals must be consumed onsite.

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at 800-877-8339.

To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, from any USDA office, by calling 866-632-9992 or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by:

Mail:

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights

1400 Independence Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or

Fax:833-256-1665 or 202-690-7442; or

Email: USDA Program Intake

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public comment and will hold a hearing on proposed updates to the Land and Water Conservation Fund grant rules.

The federally funded grant program, administered by OPRD, provides financial assistance to local governments, federally recognized tribes, and state agencies for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreation areas.

Under the proposed update, OPRD will institute a biennial grant funding schedule: at least one year of each biennium will feature a competitive grant round open to eligible applicants, while the alternate year all available funds will be dedicated solely to OPRD for eligible state park projects.

By alternating the funding focus each year, OPRD will be able to maintain a robust and efficient grant program while also supporting critical state park initiatives. The revised approach is informed by program administration experience over multiple grant cycles and a need for greater flexibility in managing funding allocations. It also enhances OPRD’s ability to plan and implement projects that best serve public outdoor recreation interests.

How to submit comments

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted until July 9, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. You can submit written comments on the rulemaking web page, by email to lic.comment@oprd.oregon.gov">public.comment@oprd.oregon.gov or by mail to:

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
Attn: Katie Gauthier
725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
Salem, OR 97301

A virtual public hearing will be held on July 6, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. to allow members of the public to provide testimony. Join the hearing via Zoom.

What’s next

Once the public comment period closes, OPRD staff will review all comments, revise the draft rules as appropriate, and present a final proposal to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration.

For more information, visit the Land and Water Conservation Fund rulemaking web page.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – Today, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is providing an update on the investigative progress into the disappearance of Kyron Horman.

Kyron was seven years old when he disappeared 16 years ago.

Kyron was last seen on the morning of June 4, 2010, at Skyline Elementary School in Portland, Oregon, where he was attending his school’s science fair. He has not been seen or heard from since. Kyron has brown hair, blue eyes, and wears glasses. He also has a distinct V-shaped strawberry birthmark on his forehead.

In 2025, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office finalized the process of digitizing the entire case. This work included scanning and documenting thousands of pages of reports, photos and evidence.

With the digitization now complete, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is leveraging new technology tools to advance the investigation. This will allow detectives to process and analyze more than 5,300 written documents and more than half a terabyte of data associated with this investigation in a new and meaningful way.

To build upon and maximize this progress, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office has increased staffing on this case. In addition to the MCSO detectives assigned to the case, the sheriff’s office continues to collaborate closely with the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the East County Major Crimes Team, and the Portland Police Bureau.

“Sixteen years have passed since Kyron Horman disappeared. His family has lived through birthdays, holidays, and moments that mark the passage of time,” said Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “I want Kyron’s family and our community to know that he has never been forgotten. Our commitment to Kyron’s case remains as strong today as it was when he was first reported missing. We will keep doing everything we can to provide Kyron’s family the resolution they deserve.”

"Sixteen years is a long time – too long.  I think about Kyron often,” said District Attorney Nathan Vasquez. “I want Kyron’s family and the community to know that a lack of news on the case does not mean a lack of progress. We are working on this behind the scenes, following every possible clue. We are as determined today as we were in the days after Kyron disappeared, and my office will not rest until we have answered the question of what happened to Kyron Horman. To anyone out there who holds the answer - we are not going away. We will continue our hunt for justice for as long as it takes."

Each year, hundreds of tips are received, reviewed and considered for follow-up by investigators. Additionally, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office continues to conduct searches in an ongoing effort to find Kyron and bring resolution to his family and the broader community.

A $50,000 reward remains available for information leading to the resolution of Kyron’s disappearance.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the MCSO Tip Line at 503-988-0560, email tips@mcso.us, or reach out to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) at 1-800-THE-LOST or online at the NCMEC Cyber Tip Line.

When reporting on this case please refer to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office in full. Because there are multiple "MCSO" agencies within the state of Oregon (including Marion, Morrow, and Malheur counties), using the full agency name ensures clarity and geographical accuracy.

Image: A four-panel grid showing Kyron Horman. The top-left panel shows an original photo from June 2010 of Kyron as a smiling seven-year-old boy with short brown hair and glasses, wearing a black CSI t-shirt in front of a school science fair display. The remaining three panels feature school-portrait-style age-progression illustrations generated by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

###

On December 16, 2022, Opal Oaks was born to Deborah Albin and Andrew Oaks.  At the age of two months and ten days, emergency personnel responded in an attempt to resuscitate Opal, who was not breathing.  These and subsequent efforts at the ER were unsuccessful and Opal was pronounced dead. 

A later autopsy revealed that Opal had 13 broken ribs, with fractures in 18 locations.  The ribs were in different stages of healing, indicative of three different events.  The baby also had both chronic and acute pneumonia, as well as a hole in the protective membrane of one lung resulting from complications of the rib fractures.  Opal was also positive for a level of methamphetamine that would have been high for an adult.  She also had diphenhydramine (Benadryl) in her system.  The autopsy concluded that Opal died from complications associated with the broken ribs, including pneumonia, with methamphetamine being another significant condition.  The death was determined to be a homicide.

On September 26, 2023, a Benton County Grand Jury indicted Albin of Manslaughter in the First Degree.  The indictment alleged Albin recklessly caused the death of Opal by neglect or maltreatment.  She was further indicted of two counts of Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree, with allegations that in violation of a legal duty, Albin either knowingly withheld necessary and adequate medical attention, or physical care, from Opal.

Detective Lieutenant David Iverson of the Benton County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator on the case.  His investigation revealed the following, all of which was also introduced as evidence during the trial:

• Oaks and Albin were Opal’s sole caregivers, and the child was never left alone with others.
• Oaks was frequently absent from the home for purposes of finding and using methamphetamine.
• Albin expressed concern with Oaks smoking methamphetamine in the home while Opal was present.
• Albin saw Oaks “tossing” or “throwing” the child around “like a rag doll” at one point, and did not believe Opal was safe to be in his presence. Despite this, she frequently left Opal alone with Oaks.
• Oaks and Albin had a tumultuous relationship, and at times Oaks was physically abusive of Albin.
• Albin frequently threatened to leave Oaks, and often told him she could not trust him. 
• Albin was the primary bread winner of the family.  She had supportive parents, as well as in laws, who made it clear they were there to support Albin and Opal.
• Albin had the freedom to come and go from the home as she pleased.
• In the week leading up to Opal’s death, Albin knew Opal was having trouble breathing and sleeping.  She knew that Opal had a fever.  Despite this knowledge, she did not seek medical care.
• Pictures of Opal while alive showed bruising to her head, and other abrasions around Opal’s nose. 
• Autopsy pictures showed bruises to Opal’s back and head. The broken ribs were consistent with someone squeezing Opal.

At trial, which began on May 18, 2026 and concluded on June 2, medical experts testified that Albin should have told doctors that Opal had been exposed to methamphetamine and that Oaks had tossed Opal around like a rag doll.  Such reporting would have led doctors to conduct further examinations, which would have revealed the rib fractures, pneumonia, and methamphetamine toxicity.  Medical experts also testified that Albin should have contacted a medical care provider owing to her exhibiting symptoms of illness and experiencing a fever.  As it was, Albin only called 911 after she realized that Opal had stopped breathing.  At that point, it was too late. 

Notably, despite an indication by defense prior to trial, they chose not to introduce evidence that Albin’s actions, or lack thereof, were based on a fear of harm from Oaks.  Instead, the defense appeared to claim that Albin was unaware of the need for treatment until the very day Opal died. 

On June 2, the jury deliberated for about two hours following which they reached a unanimous verdict of guilty on all three counts. The jury returned on June 3 to deliberate as to whether aggravating factors were involved in the crimes.  The jury decided in the affirmative that all three charges involved a particularly vulnerable victim, based on Opal’s age, and as to the Criminal Mistreatment charges, that the harm that occurred in this case was significantly greater than typical, given the death of Opal.

“Justice was done in this case.  Opal’s story was told, and the jury did the right thing.  I feel a lingering sadness, though, as the life of this innocent baby cannot be restored.”  Laura Kaercher, Deputy District Attorney.

“Opal was a vulnerable infant. The jury was forced to consider weighty evidence, and their verdict affirms what the evidence in this case made clear—Albin failed to provide necessary medical attention and physical care to Opal despite witnessing Opal’s abuse, exposure to methamphetamine, and deteriorating medical condition.”  Matt Ipson, Sr. Deputy District Attorney.

On Saturday, May 30, 2026, at approximately 7:52 p.m., the Marion County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a vehicle versus pedestrian crash involving a 1-year-old female child on a rural property near Aumsville. The incident occurred on private property.

Deputies and emergency responders arrived on scene and began an investigation. Tragically, the child was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver was cooperative with law enforcement throughout the investigation.At this time, no arrests have been made.

This is a heartbreaking incident, and our thoughts and condolences are with the child's family and all those affected.

The investigation remains ongoing, and no further information is available at this time.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank our CRASH Team, Criminal Investigations Unit, Stayton Police Department, Stayton Fire District, Santiam Ambulance, METCOM 911, the Willamette Valley Communications Center (WVCC), and the Willamette Valley First Responder Chaplains for their assistance with this case.

The company filed a 29% rate increase for data centers and lower rates for residential and small business customers

CAMAS, Wash. — Camas School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Griffin Peyton as Director of Secondary Education.

Peyton brings nearly two decades of experience in public education, including leadership roles at both the school and district levels. He currently serves as Senior Director of Instruction and Leadership for Evergreen Public Schools, where he supervises and supports 15 K–12 principals serving more than 9,000 students.

Throughout his career, Peyton has focused on strengthening instructional systems, supporting school leaders, and creating learning environments where students and staff can thrive. His experience includes serving as principal of Union High School and Frontier Middle School, where he led efforts to improve student achievement, increase graduation outcomes, strengthen student support systems, and expand opportunities for student voice and engagement.

As principal of Union High School, Peyton helped maintain an average graduation rate of 95.9 percent over five years and co-led a districtwide Freshman Success Initiative that significantly increased on-track graduation rates for Hispanic students. He has also contributed to districtwide curriculum alignment, professional learning, school improvement planning, and principal development.

"Griffin's leadership is grounded in relationships, collaboration, and a deep commitment to student success," said Camas School District Superintendent Dr. John Anzalone. "His experience supporting schools and developing leaders will be an asset as we continue to advance opportunities and outcomes for every student."

Peyton earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Western Washington University, a Master's in Teaching from Washington State University Vancouver, an Educational Administration Certificate from Washington State University Vancouver, and a Superintendent Certificate from Washington State University.

In his new role, Peyton will provide leadership and support for the district's secondary schools, working closely with principals, teachers, students, and families to advance the district's strategic priorities and ensure high-quality learning experiences for all students.

Peyton will begin his new role with Camas School District on July 1, 2026.

About Camas School District

Camas School District serves approximately 7,200 students across 13 schools and programs. The district is committed to creating an inclusive environment where each student experiences a sense of belonging, high-quality instruction, and deeper learning. Guided by its strategic plan and Profile of a Graduate, Camas School District prepares students to thrive in school, career, and life.

Vancouver, Wash. - Clark County is revising its Comprehensive Growth Management Plan, a 20-year guide for managing growth and development with respect to the natural environment and available resources. The Clark County Council and Planning Commission have scheduled a series of work sessions on Comprehensive Plan Update materials in preparation for the adoption process.

Work sessions are intended as informational briefings to review draft comprehensive plan update text and development code amendments.

Work sessions are open to the public, however there is no verbal public comment as part of the event. Written testimony is welcome and may be submitted at any time.

Meetings will be held in a hybrid format. Attendees can join in person on the sixth floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or virtually via Webex.

County Council work sessions are held on Wednesdays in the sixth-floor hearing room and typically begin at 9am. Please note that other county work sessions may take place before comprehensive plan sessions begin. Planning Commission work sessions are held on Thursdays in the sixth-floor training room and begin at 5:30pm.

Meeting dates and topics are scheduled as follows:

• County Council work sessions:
  • June 10: Community Framework Plan, Environment, Parks, Historic, Economic Development, Schools, Community Design, Annexation, Shoreline and Climate chapters
  • June 24: Transportation chapter, project list and evaluation criteria
  • July 1: Land Use, Housing, and Rural chapters and proposed changes to the mobile home code
  • July 15: Transportation appendix, Capital Facilities Plan chapter and appendix, and Capital Facilities Financial Plan
  • July 22: Proposed changes to housing and transportation development code, Introduction and Procedural chapters and additional appendices
  • July 29: School and fire district capital facility plan updates and associated impact fees
• Planning Commission work sessions:
  • June 18: Introduction, Land Use, Rural, and Procedural chapters
  • July 2: School and fire district capital facility plan updates and associated impact fees, Housing and Transportation chapters, transportation project list and evaluation criteria
  • July 16: Transportation appendix, Capital Facilities chapter and appendices
  • July 30: Additional appendices

Materials will be posted at the following webpage in advance of each meeting: https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/2025-update-meeting-and-event-information.

Information on how to attend council work sessions can be found on the council meeting page: https://bit.ly/CCCouncil.

Information on how to attend Planning Commission work sessions can be found on the commission’s meeting page: https://bit.ly/CCPlanComm.

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

On Sunday, May 31, 2026, a Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a theft at Ace Hardware at 3470 SW 185th Avenue in Aloha, learning that the male suspect had left in a vehicle. Deputies investigating the theft found the suspect driving on SW 201st Avenue and attempted to stop the driver.

The driver eluded and crashed his vehicle into another vehicle near SW 201st Ave and SW Baseline Road before crashing into a second vehicle near SW 185th Ave and SW Baseline Rd, which disabled his car. Fortunately, the occupants of the other vehicles were not seriously injured. Upon arrival, deputies discovered that the driver had fled the crash and called for a K9 to assist with tracking. Deputy Oien and K9 Rexx responded as deputies set up containment.

Multiple 911 callers reported seeing the suspect run through neighborhoods and jump fences. Corporal Terry and K9 Griff assisted with the track as the suspect continued to run. Both K9 teams worked together to narrow the distance between them and the fleeing suspect.

After nearly three hours of tracking, Deputy Oien and K9 Rexx located the suspect hiding under a tarp in a backyard near the 19000 block of SW Johnson Road.

The suspect, 40-year-old Moua Thao of Beaverton, was arrested and transported to the Washington County Jail for the following:

• Attempt to elude in a vehicle
• Hit and run
• Assault in the fourth degree
• Reckless driving
• Theft in the second degree
• Washington County warrant
• Oregon Parole Board warrant

The Beaverton Police Department and deputies added additional charges for other open cases involving theft and driving offenses once Thao was in jail.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the community for their help in locating Thao. If you have additional information related to this investigation and have not spoken with deputies, please contact the Sheriff’s Office through non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111, referencing case number 50-26-7537.

Original: https://www.milwaukieoregon.gov/business_detail_T13_R321.php

On May 3rd, a community member alerted Milwaukie Police to a significant makeshift camp located in Kronberg park near Se Mcloughlin Blvd. Officers contacted a female and male who was Identified as Larry Tucky 50, of Spokane. Officers quickly learned the female had a restraining order against Tuckey and he took off running toward Kellogg Creek. Tuckey jumped into the creek and began to swim prompting Officers to request marine rescue resources and additional units from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s office. Tuckey was located on the Lake Rd. side of Kellogg creek and taken into custody for violation of the restraining order and escape. MiPD #26-2373

On May 8th a Milwaukie Officer doing patrols near SE Hillside Ct. and SE Blossom Way observed a pickup he had identified previously as belonging to a male with a felony warrant who was also wanted for questioning by Portland Police for a weapons offense. Shortly after, the Officer saw that male near the pickup and attempted to contact him. The male, identified as John Moro 26, of Las Vegas, took off running towards SE 32nd Ave. Officers arriving in the area located Moro quickly and took him into custody.  A female associate of Moro’s arrived shortly after to collect his belongings and was found to have a felony warrant also wanted in connection with a PPB weapons offense. Moro was taken to the Clackamas County Jail on his Felony warrants and escape, the female was transferred to PPB custody. MiPD #26-2486

On separate occasions in May, Milwaukie officers were dispatched to North Clackamas Wilbur Rowe Middle School and additionally on another day to SE 21st Ave. adjacent the Milwaukie High School for physically agitated or otherwise concerning actions by separate students. On both occasions, Milwaukie Behavioral Health specialists Glen Suchanek and Trista Erickson responded to support Officers and school staff. In both instances a student was in a behavioral health crisis, which was effectively de-escalated and resolved through voluntary medical transport due to the work of Glen and Trista. Police intervention was completely avoided. 

On May 12th, Milwaukie Officers contacted a male who was reported to be using illegal narcotics near the 6100 block of SE King Rd. Officers arrived and contacted Jay Wolfe 28, of Portland. When officers learned Wolfe had a Clackamas County Warrant, they attempted to take Wolfe into custody but he ran towards SE Linwood Ave. An officer caught up to Wolfe who had ran into traffic and tackled him to the ground where he was taken into custody. Wolfe was taken to the Clackamas County jail on his warrant and escape. MiPD #26-2552

On May 15th Officers responded to a welfare check of a vehicle parked in the roadway on SE 37th Ave. The car was in drive with the driver passed out, their foot resting on the brake. Officers pinned the vehicle in from the front and rear and began efforts to wake the driver and passenger. When they did not wake, Officers summoned medical personnel and broke a car window to gain access. The passenger gained consciousness however the driver was administered Narcan and was very slow to wake. After both the driver and passenger were medically evaluated, the female was transported to the Clackamas County jail on a felony warrant and the driver, Christoper Landrum 34, of Portland was also transported to jail on a probation violation and possession of a controlled substance. MiPD #26-2620.

On May 28th, Milwaukie Officers were called to the 10600 block of SE Main St. on report of a male who had taken a pile of parcel packages from the office and ran into the adjacent woods. After an area check Officers did not find the suspect. The alert community member noticed the male a short time later in a tree and took several photos of them. Using those pictures, Officers found the male a short time later in downtown Milwaukie and were able to arrest him and recover the items. The male was on probation with Clackamas County and was also detained on seperate probation violations.  He was transported to the Clackamas County Jail. MiPD #26-2914

On May 31st, Milwaukie Police sent our Clackamas County Interagency SWAT member, two interagency Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) members an interagency Crime Scene Reconstruction (CRAFT) member and multiple interagency Major Crimes Team Detectives to Sandy, Oregon for an active shooter/murder investigation. Details can be found here: https://www.clackamas.us/news/2026-06-01/bryan-andrew-moore-arraigned-on-murder-charges-attempted-murder-of-a-police-officer

Calls for Service : 1915
Full data: https://www.milwaukieoregon.gov/departments/police/about/calls_for_service_data.php#outer-833

Video: "runners" https://youtu.be/0xehX78iMq8?si=mttT8ub613s4q4vJ

Traffic stops: 667

Welfare checks : 108 - total number is initially higher. Officers arrive on a welfare check and the call type is changed to the appropriate disposition based on the situation.

Stabilization Center BHU Referrals – 4

Stabilization Center LEO Referrals – 2

BHU On scene with Police - 13

BHU unique Contacts (Glen/Trista) - TOTAL - 57

Police Report BHU Follow UP - 28 encounters

BHU= behavioral health unit

April Interagency Missions; CCSO interagency retail theft, Oregon City traffic safety blitz.  

SALEM, ORE. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has filed a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for a proposed rule change to adopt a new Forest Management Plan (FMP) for western Oregon state forest lands managed by the department.

The proposed change to this rule will replace the three current FMPs (Northwest Oregon, Southwest Oregon, and Elliott) with a single FMP for these forest lands. The State Forests Division is pursuing an alternative method for compliance with the federal Endangered Species Act by applying for incidental take permits from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – Fisheries. The incidental take permits will require the division to manage Oregon state forest lands in compliance with a habitat conservation plan.

The Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan contains guiding principles, goals, and strategies that are compatible with the Western Oregon State Forests Habitat Conservation Plan. The Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan provides management direction for all Board of Forestry Lands and Common School Forest Lands managed by the Oregon Department of Forestry west of the crest of the Cascade Range.

The Board of Forestry may review, modify, or terminate a plan at any time; however, the BOF will review the plan no less than every 10 years. The current Southwest and Northwest FMPs were last revised in 2010, while the Elliott FMP was last revised in 2011. More information about State Forests Management Plans can be found here.

Public comments on the proposed rule will be accepted from June 1 to June 30 at 11:55 p.m. A virtual rulemaking hearing will be held on June 25 at 3 p.m.  The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking contains the link to register to attend or provide comment at the hearing.  The notice also includes important details including but not limited to the proposed rule text and instructions for submitting public comments and participating in the hearings.

More information on this rulemaking effort and ongoing updates can be found on the Rulemaking activity page of the ODF website.

At 9:43 a.m. Wednesday morning Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a reported fire at B&R Auto Wrecking on Hwy 97 just north of Bend. Multiple 911 calls came in about a vehicle on fire at the wrecking yard next to the main building. Employees on the scene were able to move two burning cars away from the building to prevent it from catching fire. Responders arrived to find the two vehicles on fire with flames spreading to a nearby tire pile and into the grass along the southernmost property line bordering Four Seasons Mobile Home Park. Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office deputies and first arriving firefighters were able to stop the grass fire from spreading, and the next arriving engines knocked the fire down within 10 minutes. An employee was treated on scene for a minor injury. Two vehicles bound for crushing and a pile of tires were the only losses.

The cause of the fire was accidental. The fire was caused when staff were dismantling a vehicle before crushing. As the gas tank was being drained for disposal of the fuel, a spark from an electric tool ignited the fumes and started the vehicle and adjacent material on fire. The fire spread to a pile of approximately 50 tires. Those tires burning caused the large plume of black smoke visible from the north end of Bend.

B&R Auto Wrecking follows State law for auto wrecking facilities that limit storage of materials and goods near dismantling processes and buildings. These rules came into effect after major auto wrecking fires in the Portland area caused significant fire and environmental damage in the past decade. B&R’s compliance with these rules and annual inspections with Bend Fire & Rescue prevented the piles of tires and combustibles from being too large to contain when firefighters arrived. The separation meant tanks of old oil, coolant, and gasoline were far enough away from the fire to prevent them from becoming involved and adding to the incident.

PORTLAND, Ore. (June 03, 2026) – A creative fan of Oregon’s favorite amusement park could land major bragging rights – and two season passes – by coming up with a name for the thrilling new drop tower ride coming to Oaks Park in 2027.

The park, which has been providing family fun on the banks of the Willamette River since 1905, will start construction this summer on its new drop tower ride. The Larson International ARM Park Model Super Shot Drop Tower will offer guests a breathtaking view of Portland before delivering a heart-pounding free-fall guaranteed to induce thrills and screams of excitement.

“Exhilarating thrill rides have always been a major draw for everyone who loves Oaks Park,” said Emily MacKay, Oaks Park’s marketing and events director. “When our new drop tower debuts in 2027, we’ll be turning up the fun even more. And to celebrate that, we want to let fans of Oaks Park come up with the best names they can.”

The naming contest is underway now on the Oaks Park website. Contestants simply fill out a short online form, where they can submit up to four creative, clever and memorable names for the tower. Entries need to be submitted by June 14, 2026, and the winner will be notified by email by July 31, 2026.

In addition to landing the honor of naming what’s expected to be the tallest drop tower in the Pacific Northwest – and the most intense thrill ride ever added to Oaks Park – the winner will also receive two 2027 Season Passes to the park. The passes offer unlimited rides every standard operating day of the season, 10% off food, beverages and gift shop purchases, and exclusive special offers.

For more information about the new Drop Tower coming to Oaks Park in 2027 and to enter the contest, visit Oakspark.com.

On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, the Corvallis Police Department was honored to present two local community members with the Corvallis Police Department Partnership Award for their quick actions which helped save a life in April.

In the early afternoon hours of April 20, 2026, the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call regarding a motor vehicle which had crashed off the roadway. Bystanders John Schneider and Megan Gregory-Goplen sprang into action and quickly realized the crash was due to a medical event suffered by the driver. With the guidance of 9-1-1 Telecommunicator Anna Schulz, Schneider and Gregory-Goplen began CPR efforts on the unconscious driver until emergency responders could arrive.

“In moments of crisis, most people will experience fear and uncertainty,” shared Chief of Police Jason Harvey. “The individuals we are honoring today chose to act. Faced with a life-threatening emergency, they stepped forward, provided CPR, and gave someone in our community a fighting chance at life.”

To make the presentation of the awards even more special, the driver, John Short, whose life was saved, and his wife, Carolyn, were in attendance with friends and family. It was the first time since the incident in April that those involved were in the same room together.

In addition to the Partnership Awards, Chief Harvey also presented 9-1-1 Telecommunicator Schulz with a Lifesaving Award for her calm and professional CPR instructions, as well as gathering critical information for first responders about the scene. Officer Joel Hodgkinson, who took over CPR until paramedics could arrive, was presented with his own Lifesaving Award last month.

John Schneider could not be in attendance, but was recognized publicly for his valiant efforts to save a life, and will receive his award at a later date. 

Editors: Find video clips of Sarah Wylie discussing SB 1571 on OHA’s Media Resources page.

June 3, 2026

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

Oregon law expands ‘tobacco products’ definition to prevent underage sales, youth nicotine addiction

Oral nicotine pouches, lozenges, other emerging nicotine products included under Oregon’s tobacco regulations starting June 5

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is reminding Oregon’s 3,700 tobacco retailers that a new state law expanding the definition of tobacco products takes effect June 5.

People must be 21 to purchase tobacco products and inhalant delivery systems in Oregon and nationwide. Senate Bill 1571, signed into law in March, expands the state’s definition of tobacco products to include oral nicotine pouches, lozenges, gum and other nicotine products, regardless of whether they are naturally or synthetically made.

Nicotine pouches are the fastest-growing product on the U.S. tobacco market. In 2024, oral nicotine pouches became the second most commonly used tobacco product among U.S. middle and high school students.

The revision brings Oregon’s tobacco regulations in line with federal law to reduce youth access to addictive nicotine products, many of which are sold in flavors marketed as cool mint, citrus burst, refreshing chill and wild berry. A national study showed that 80% of youth who ever used a tobacco product started with a flavored product.

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Oregon, accounting for 8,000 deaths annually. Sarah Wylie, manager of the Oregon Tobacco Retail License Program at OHA's Public Health Division, said “SB 1571 is a significant step in responding to the shifting tobacco retail landscape and the emergence of new and addictive nicotine products.”

“As the tobacco industry continues to introduce these products designed to appeal to new consumers, public health policies must evolve to keep pace and ensure communities are protected from emerging health risks,” Wylie said.  

Between January and July 2025, OHA’s Tobacco Prevention and Education Program conducted a statewide tobacco retail assessment to examine tobacco availability, advertising, marketing and promotion across 1,147 Oregon retail outlets, including convenience stores, gas stations and grocery stores, among others.

The assessment found that 65% of tobacco retailers offered price promotions, including 43% promoting oral nicotine products. One product, Zyn, had the lowest advertised price of any tobacco or nicotine product assessed, averaging just $5.60. The low cost is especially concerning as oral nicotine pouches continue to grow in popularity among youth, who are often the most price-sensitive consumers.

The new law takes important steps toward reducing youth nicotine addiction and reducing tobacco-driven health inequities. Nearly 90% of people who smoke start before they turn 18, and teenagers’ developing brains are vulnerable to the highly addictive nicotine in tobacco products.

Moving forward, oral nicotine products will be regulated similarly to cigarettes and inhalant delivery systems, such as e-cigarettes or vapes.

OHA encourages Oregon tobacco retailers to review age verification and ID-checking procedures with employees to ensure compliance with the updated law before it takes effect. OHA and local public health authorities will continue to conduct undercover compliance checks, which now include enforcement of the updated law.

Retailers are urged to visit OHA's website for tobacco retailers for a training manual, fact sheets, compliance checklists and other educational resources to help them stay in compliance with Oregon tobacco sales laws. For questions about OHA compliance inspections and enforcement, visit healthoregon.org/tobaccoretailsales, email acco.Inspections@odhsoha.oregon.gov">Tobacco.Inspections@odhsoha.oregon.gov, or call: 971-673-2283.

Quitting tobacco makes a difference – and quitting is different for everyone. That’s why there are a variety of free options across Oregon to help you succeed.

• You can get free counseling with a Quit Coach and Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) sent to your door at no cost:
  • Texting “Ready” (English) or “Listo” (Spanish) to 21586
  • Calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW or 1-855-DEJELO-YA (Spanish)
  • Visiting the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line at quitnow.net/oregon
  • Downloading the free “Quit for Life” app on your mobile device
• You can ask your local pharmacist if they offer counseling and treatment on site. Pharmacists that offer counseling and treatment on site will work with you to build a personalized treatment plan and provide follow-up to see how the treatment plan works.
• You can also learn how to quit in your own way, with or without the help of a coach or pharmacist, by visiting https://smokefreeoregon.com/im-ready-to-quit.

###

Portland, OR — June 3, 2026 — As federal USDA funding reductions threaten a significant portion of the fresh food distributed through Oregon’s emergency food system, local nonprofits are mobilizing community members to help fill the gap through a collaborative seasonal campaign.

Portland Fruit Tree Project is officially launching its 2026 harvest season—the organization’s 20th season of community harvesting and food redistribution—inviting residents across Portland and surrounding communities to register fruit and nut trees, berry bushes, and vines for harvesting.

Since 2006, Portland Fruit Tree Project has connected homeowners with volunteers to harvest thousands of pounds of fruit that might otherwise go unused, redistributing it through local food access organizations and mutual aid networks. The Portland Fruit Tree Project’s 2026 Urban Orchard Harvest Season is funded in part by the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF), supporting equitable access to fresh, locally grown food while reducing food waste and strengthening climate-resilient community food systems.

“Every year we see how much abundance already exists in our neighborhoods,” said Heather Keisler Fornes, the Executive Director of Portland Fruit Tree Project. “As we enter our 20th season, our staff and board are committed to making this our largest and most impactful harvest season yet—ensuring more fresh fruit reaches more Portlanders than ever before.”

Also added into the gleaning programming for its second year, the Grow To Donate program is off to a strong start with hundreds of pounds already donated and pledged to Portland-based pantries. Led by Portland Fruit Tree Project and Lift Urban Portland, this program encourages Portland residents to donate excess garden produce, glean produce at metro area farm sites, and register fruit trees for community harvests during the 2026 growing season.

“We know the power of community in solving local challenges,” added Stephanie Barr, Executive Director of Lift Urban Portland. “Grow to Donate is about turning gardens into solutions and fresh food into shared resilience.”

According to Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon and regional food system advocates, recent federal funding cuts are projected to reduce millions of pounds of food available to Oregon food banks and pantries this year, with fresh produce among the hardest-hit categories. These reductions come at a time when food pantry usage across Oregon remains near historic highs, increasing pressure on local organizations to source nutritious food through community-based solutions.

Grow to Donate offers residents a simple, accessible way to contribute fresh produce directly to neighbors experiencing food insecurity.

How Community Members Can Participate

Gardeners & CSA Members
Residents with home gardens, raised beds, allotments, or produce shares can pledge to donate surplus fruits and vegetables throughout the growing season. Even small donations help pantry partners, who collaborate to coordinate distribution.

Fruit Tree Owners
People with fruit or nut trees, vines, or shrubs that regularly produce more than they can use are encouraged to register their plants with Portland Fruit Tree Project. Volunteer harvest crews led by staff and trained volunteer leads help pick and distribute produce to community organizations serving households across the region.

Volunteers Needed
Community members can also support the community harvest campaign by volunteering at www.portlandfruit.org as harvesters, produce sorters, delivery drivers, and outreach ambassadors. Volunteer harvesters always take home as much as they wish to, and the rest goes to pantries through Portland Fruit Tree Project and Grow to Donate distribution networks.

To take action against food waste and increase access to fresh produce:

• Register your fruit tree(s) with the Portland Tree Project for larger harvests of excess fruit.

• Sign up as a volunteer to harvest in backyards, harvest at community orchards, and glean produce on local farms. 

• Pledge your excess garden produce through Grow to Donate for self-harvesting and drop off (pick up may also available on a limited basis).

PORTLAND, Ore. — OnPoint Community Credit Union is encouraging auto buyers in Oregon and southwest Washington to carefully evaluate financing options as a new report shows that affordability pressures continue to shape the car-buying market.

Experian’s Q1 2026 State of the Automotive Finance Market Report found more than one-third of auto loans now exceed six years as more consumers stretch repayment terms to manage higher vehicle prices and monthly payments. The report also found average loan amounts, monthly payments and loan terms all increased year-over-year, while refinance activity grew as borrowers searched for ways to lower monthly costs.

“Consumers are increasingly focused on lowering auto loan costs in the short term as interest rates and vehicle prices remain high,” said Meredith Bureau, Hillsdale branch manager, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “We encourage buyers to also consider the long-term cost of financing a vehicle by comparing financing options, understanding how loan terms impact total interest paid and choosing a car that fits comfortably within their budget.”

Below are OnPoint’s tips for helping people in Oregon and southwest Washington navigate today’s auto market:

1. Avoid stretching loan terms too far. Longer loan terms can make higher-priced vehicles feel more affordable upfront, but they increase total borrowing costs over time. For example, financing a $40,000 vehicle at 7% interest over 84 months instead of 60 months could add nearly $4,700 in additional interest over the life of the loan. Focus on the total cost of the loan and consider a lower-priced vehicle or larger down payment when possible.
2. Get pre-approved before shopping. Knowing how much you can afford before visiting a dealership can help you shop with confidence and stick to cars that are within your budget. Pre-approval also provides a clearer picture of the interest rate and loan terms you may qualify for.
3. Know your budget before visiting the dealership. Buyers should also factor in insurance, fuel, maintenance and registration costs as loan amounts and monthly payments rise. AAA’s 2025 Your Driving Costs study found the average annual cost of owning and operating a new vehicle was $11,577 per year or about $965 per month.
4. Consider and compare financing and refinancing options. Experian’s report found that consumers who refinanced in Q1 2026 lowered their average interest rate from 10.29% to 8.05%, saving an average of $81 per month. Those who refinanced with credit unions saved an average of $101 per month, compared to $60 for those who refinanced with banks.
5. Check your credit ahead of time. Interest rates remain elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels, making credit scores especially important for buyers seeking lower financing costs. The Federal Reserve reported average interest rates on 60-month new car loans remained above 7% entering 2025.  Even a 1% difference in the interest rate can translate into thousands of dollars in additional interest paid over the life of a loan.

“Comparing financing options, understanding interest costs and choosing a vehicle that fits both your budget and lifestyle can help you feel more financially confident long after leaving the dealership,” Bureau added. “Taking time to plan ahead and understand the full cost of ownership can help buyers avoid financial stress down the road.”

OnPoint offers auto loans for new and used vehicles, refinancing options and educational resources to help consumers make informed borrowing decisions. For more information about OnPoint auto loans, visit www.onpointcu.com/auto-loans.

###

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 648,000 members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania), and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com.

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Join us for a nationwide livestream event exploring democracy’s evolving story

On Saturday, June 13, 2026, Brookwood Library will host a livestream of TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures, a daylong symposium featuring 15+ original TED Talks focused on the future of democracy.

Streaming live from Philadelphia leading up to America’s 250th birthday celebrations, this landmark event convenes bold thinkers and civic leaders to share ideas and solutions designed to inform and inspire.

We’re proud to serve as a host site and bring this important civic moment to our local community.

Event Details

Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 8 am – 3 pm
Hillsboro Public Library, Brookwood Library Event Room

This hybrid event is a come-and-go format designed to fit your schedule. 

Free and open to the public. No registration required.

Translation and interpretation services are available upon request, with a notice period of 72 hours. Call 503-615-6500.  Requests submitted with less than 72 hours' notice cannot be guaranteed.

What to Expect

• Livestream of 15+ brand-new TED Talks from the stage in Philadelphia
• A welcoming space for shared civic engagement
• Opportunities for reflection and conversation
• Local speakers

TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures Speakers

Listen to some of the world’s brightest thinkers, offering brand-new TED Talks designed to challenge perspectives and inspire action.

Topics will range from media literacy and race to the intersection of AI and democracy, economic equity and more.

Speakers include:

• Jon Alexander, Citizen Futurist
• Terrill “Terry” Bouricius, Recovering Politician
• Michael Dimock, President, Pew Research Center
• Aria Florant, Reparations Catalyst
• Jen Golbeck, AI Ethicist
  
  Full list of speakers

###

Through a collaboration with Visit Philadelphia and the American Library Association, and sponsored by The Pew Charitable Trusts, libraries across the country are hosting satellite livestream events — expanding access to these critical conversations and fostering local engagement nationwide.

On Tuesday, June 2, 2026 around 3:15 p.m. Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a reported train on fire just south of Baker Road near Deschutes River Woods. 911 callers from Morningstar School and BNSF reported fire coming from the lead locomotive. Fire crews arrived to find smoke and flames on top of the locomotive where the braking system is housed. Fire extinguishers and water were used to extinguish the fire quickly. No injuries were reported.

The engineers on board were heading north on BNSF’s line from Klamath Falls when they felt a jolt on the train before seeing smoke. They were able to quickly stop the train before entering town to prevent blocking traffic lanes and prevented a brush fire from taking off by coming to rest in an area where a fire break had been created by previous wildfire mitigation efforts. No cargo or other locomotives were threatened by the fire. BNSF stopped all north/south traffic in the area until the damaged locomotive could be removed, and the train could be moved to a central Bend staging yard. Cheyenne Rd was closed for a time during the incident to allow firefighting hoses to be deployed to the locomotive.

This unique response highlights the various aspects of firefighting that crews need to be prepared for. By using the expertise of the train crews and past experiences, the fire was quickly stopped while ensuring safety for everyone on scene. Locomotives create immense amounts of electricity to move the heavy trains and that same electricity makes fighting fires on them extremely dangerous.

This incident also highlighted a community effort in Deschutes River Woods led by the neighborhood association, Bend Fire & Rescue, the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office (OSFM) and in party by BNSF. A grant from OSFM was awarded in 2024 to help reduce the vegetation in and around the large subdivision. Large areas of open land on both sides of the railroad tracks were mechanically mowed to remove overgrown brush and create a fire break along the eastern edge of the neighborhood. This was done to prevent the spread of wildfire into or out of the neighborhood. This cleared area not only provided a safe working zone for firefighters - it also reduced the risk greatly that the fire in this train could have spread to the neighborhood. This is an example of where creating defensible space around your home and neighborhood can help protect your home from more than just wildfires. Learn more about creating defensible space on your property at bendoregon.gov/own-your-zone.

June 3, 2026 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

 
Contact: Paige Parker, Public Relations Manager 
Oregon Community Foundation, pparker@oregoncf.org

OREGON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION INVESTS MORE THAN $1.5 MILLION TO ADVANCE EDUCATION ACROSS OREGON 

Grants boost Black Student Success, rural communities, child care and STEM education

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Community Foundation is investing more than $1.5 million in education initiatives designed to strengthen student success, expand STEM learning opportunities and support the child care workforce.
 

The investments include grants supporting Black Student Success programs across Oregon; funding for Oregon’s regional STEM Hubs and support for statewide scholarships that help child care providers access training and professional development.

Black Student Success Network Organization Share $480,000  

Oregon Community Foundation awarded $480,000 in grants across the Black Student Success Network, a statewide coalition of more than two dozen Black-led organizations.

The network — slated to expand this year — brings together organizations that are advancing equitable educational opportunities for Black students through collaboration, shared learning and community-rooted strategies. Leaders from participating organizations meet regularly to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships and develop statewide solutions that support Black students from early learning through postsecondary education and career pathways. 

The Black Student Success Network was formed six years ago and has expanded its reach into rural communities in Eastern and Southern Oregon while continuing to strengthen partnerships statewide. 

“We’re pleased to continue to support organizations in the Network as they elevate best practices that eliminate disparities affecting Black students and forge statewide partnerships on behalf of improving educational outcomes,” said John Chang, Director of Culturally Responsive Programs.

Chang noted that the grants come as the Black Student Success Program welcomes a new leader, with Dorian Smith joining OCF as the Senior Program Officer.  

“Dorian brings 15 years of experience advancing Black student success and statewide education equity initiatives at Oregon State University,” Chang said. “He is widely respected by education leaders across the state for his ability to build strong partnerships spanning K–12 and post-secondary education to meaningfully serve urban and rural students.”  

Smith said: “It is an honor to serve in this role and work with the state’s most innovative programs as they improve educational equity and academic performance in their communities.”  

Black Student Success Network organizations include:

BASE Oregon 

Beaverton Black Peoples Union 

Black Educational Achievement Movement 

Black Parent Initiative 

Black Southern Oregon Alliance 

Black United Fund of Oregon 

Center for Black Student Excellence 

Hermiston Cultural Awareness Coalition 

HOLLA Mentors 

Oregon State University Foundation 

KairosPDX 

KinCultivate 

Self Enhancement, Inc. 

African Youth & Community Organization 

Oregon Alliance of Black School Educators 

Portland Opportunities Industrialization Center 

Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization 

The Father's Group 

Youth Organized and United to Help (Y.O.U.T.H.) 

Elevate Oregon 

Bridge-Pamoja 

REAP Inc. 

Alumni Association of the University of Oregon 

A Composer’s Heart 

Albina Head Start 

OCF Invests Nearly $1 Million in Oregon STEM Hubs

The Oracle STEM Education Grants Fund of Oregon Community Foundation awarded $975,000 in grants to Oregon’s regional STEM Hubs, with each Hub receiving a $75,000 grant and targeted technical assistance support.  

As a statewide network of regional partnerships, Oregon’s STEM Hubs connect schools, industry and community organizations to provide hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts and math learning opportunities. The Hubs focus on expanding access for students who have historically been underserved, including rural students, students from low-income families, students of color and girls.

“The grants prioritize long-term sustainability and ecosystem strengthening across the Hub network,” said Belle Cantor, Senior Program Officer for Education and Youth Development. “Funding will help regional STEM Hubs build organizational capacity, strengthen community partnerships and expand donor support to ensure students across Oregon continue to have access to career-connected STEM learning opportunities.” 

OCF Supports Child Care Workforce Through Betty Gray Scholarship Program 

The Betty Gray Endowment Fund at Oregon Community Foundation also awarded $100,000 to the Oregon Center for Career Development in Childhood Care and Education in support of the Betty Gray Statewide Scholarship for Child Care Provider Training and Certification.

For nearly 25 years, OCF’s Early Childhood Program has prioritized professional development for Oregon’s early care and education workforce. Since 2002, the scholarship program has helped thousands of child care providers access training, coursework, credentials and professional development opportunities that strengthen Oregon’s early childhood education system. 

The scholarship program has served more than 13,500 participants statewide. Nearly half of scholarship applicants identify as Latine, and the program also prioritizes outreach to Black, Asian and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander educators, rural providers, immigrant and refugee educators and family child care providers. 

The program supports early-career educators and helps providers working in licensed or regulated settings access conferences, coursework, credentialing opportunities and other professional development resources that improve the quality of care available to Oregon children and families. 

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. Each year, OCF distributes more than $200 million in grants and scholarships statewide in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org. 

### 

MEDFORD, Ore – The Bureau of Land Management is asking the public for input on a proposed forest management project to increase wildfire protection in the Applegate and Lake Creek areas in Jackson County. The Douglas fir Mortality Complex Environmental Assessment proposes salvage timber sales to remove dead and dying trees, as well as thinning potential fire fuels.

“This project would make the forest—and the timber it could produce in the future—more resilient to fire, drought, and insects,” said Lauren Brown, Ashland Field Manager.

The BLM remains committed to supplying a secure, resilient domestic timber supply. In western Oregon, this commitment is rooted in the Oregon and California Revested Lands Sustained Yield Management Act of 1937. Selling the salvaged timber provides revenue to the 18 O&C counties, and helps offset the cost of the fire mitigation work.

Today, the BLM started a 30-day public comment period to receive public input on the environmental assessment. To stay up to date on the project and to leave a comment, the public should visit the BLM NEPA Register at: https://eplanning.blm.gov/Project-Home/?id=468d6bf4-a7f2-f011-8407-001dd80bcf93

-BLM-

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

SALEM, Ore. — The Committee for Family Forestlands (CFF) will meet virtually on Wednesday, June 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. 

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Forest Resources Division update
• Legacy and Stewardship Program Sub-Workgroup and CFF Charter
• Adaptive Management Program update
• Fire update
• Board of Forestry update
• Grant Program update
• Compliance Monitoring update

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. 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 503-949-4785 or by email at .family.forestlands@odf.oregon.gov">committee.for.family.forestlands@odf.oregon.gov.

The 13-member committee researches policies that affect family forests, natural resources and forestry benefits. Based on its findings, the committee recommends actions to the Oregon Board of Forestry and the State Forester. View more information on the CFF webpage.

PHOTO: Early Childhood Education classroom at the Sylvania Campus.

SOUTHWEST PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Community College’s Child Development Center is moving forward with plans to expand early learning access for local families through a new partnership opportunity with Multnomah County’s Preschool for All Program.

PCC's Child Development Center is planning broad expansion of its early learning programming for the 2026-27 school year after conversations with Preschool for All about increasing preschool capacity. As part of that expansion, PCC intends to add 20 Preschool for All seats, including 16 seats in the center's upcoming licensed outdoor nature-based preschool program. PCC is also preparing to launch a new infant classroom with PFA infant/toddler support funding as part of its continued investment in early learning services for families.

This creates a pathway for PCC to serve more children, strengthen its early childhood education programs and secure approximately $400,000 in ongoing support. The $400,000 in funding, which comes entirely from Preschool for All, includes per-child allocations, startup funds and infant/toddler stabilization resources.

“This is an exciting opportunity to expand access to high-quality early learning while strengthening the long-term sustainability of the Child Development Center,” said Velvet Cooley, director of PCC’s Child Development Center. “By partnering with Preschool for All, PCC can respond directly to the needs of local families and create new learning opportunities for both children and college students preparing for careers in early childhood education.”

With the addition of 20 new seats, PCC will have a total of 40, allowing the center to offer free preschool to eligible children who live in Multnomah County and will be 3 or 4 years old by Sept. 1. 

The expansion aligns with PCC’s Child Development Center’s ongoing work to become a licensed outdoor nature-based provider. Outdoor nature-based programs became officially licensable in Oregon through House Bill 2717, passed in 2023, and are regulated by the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care under specialized rules. Unlike traditional programs, these programs use natural outdoor environments as the primary classroom, supported by trained teachers and intentional planning around weather, wildlife, site-specific hazards and risk-benefit play.

“Preschool for All is entering its biggest year of growth yet with over 7,000 available seats. We are proud to partner with Portland Community College to open the first certified outdoor preschool in the Portland metropolitan area,” said Danisa McLean, director of Multnomah County’s Preschool & Early Learning Division. “The families we serve value the variety of learning environments Preschool for All offers, and this partnership gives children a unique opportunity to learn and grow in nature while expanding access to free early childhood education.”

The PCC program is set to be the first certified outdoor preschool in the Portland metropolitan area. The model will also provide PCC Early Childhood Education students with hands-on experience in a fully outdoor learning environment, giving practicum students the opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world practice in child development, play-based learning and nature-based education.

The Child Development Center, located at PCC’s Sylvania Campus, serves as both an early learning environment for children and a training facility for PCC Early Childhood Education students. The center is licensed by the State of Oregon and provides students opportunities to apply early childhood best practices under the supervision of mentor teachers. 

For more information, visit https://www.pcc.edu/child-care/development-center/

About Portland Community College: Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 57,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

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

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
Wednesday, June 3, 2026

Click for Images and Captions

Seasonal favorites return including Welcome the Night, sawmill demonstrations and daily wildlife encounters

BEND, OR — Summer is in full swing at the High Desert Museum, with daily wildlife encounters, immersive exhibitions, living history experiences and special events continuing through Labor Day. Signature programs include the popular Raptors of the Desert Sky flight demonstration, along with daily talks, historic demonstrations and family-friendly evening events. Museum membership provides added value all season long with discounts on many programs and events.

Raptors of the Desert Sky
Daily at 11:30 a.m.

Presented each day at 11:30 a.m., the popular program invites visitors to experience hawks, owls, falcons and even turkey vultures soaring directly overhead in a natural amphitheater nestled among towering ponderosa pines.

As the birds fly from perch to perch, a Museum expert narrates the action, sharing the hunting strategies and natural behaviors of these spectacular birds of prey, as well as what we can do to help preserve them in the wild.

The program takes place weather and air quality permitting. The Museum website will be updated to reflect any time changes, including earlier start times during periods of high temperatures to ensure the birds’ wellbeing.

Tickets are separate from Museum entry ($8 general admission; free for ages 2 and under; members receive 20% discount) and are sold at Admissions for that day’s program until 11 a.m. Tickets are available in-person only and often sell out before 10 a.m. Visitors are strongly encouraged to arrive when the Museum opens at 9 a.m. to secure tickets.

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

Desert Dwellers
Daily at 3 p.m. through Monday, September 7

Visitors can meet not one, not two, but three mammals in the popular Desert Dwellers talk at 3 p.m., featuring a beaver, skunk, or porcupine. They can also learn about wolves, raptors and other High Desert species in other talks. Daily talks are free with admission. Talk details are at highdesertmuseum.org/daily-schedule.

High Desert Ranger Station
Daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Monday, September 7

The historic High Desert Ranger Station is now open daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering visitors a glimpse into the daily life of early U.S. Forest Service rangers in the West. Relocated in December 2024 from the front of the Museum to a new home along the Fire in the Forest trail, the ranger station invites guests to step inside a piece of regional history surrounded by the landscape it was built to serve.

Constructed east of the Sierra Nevada in 1933, the station was moved to the High Desert Museum in 2008 through a partnership with the Pacific Northwest Forest Service Association of retired Forest Service employees, known as the Old Smokeys. Today, Old Smokeys and Museum volunteers welcome visitors into the cabin to share stories of wildfire prevention, forest stewardship, and life in the early days of the Forest Service. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/high-desert-ranger-station.

Sawmill Demonstrations
June 21, July 24, and August 27 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Visitors can also experience the sights, sounds, and raw power of early timber work during special live demonstrations of the 1904 Lazinka Sawmill on June 21, July 24 and August 27. From noon to 3 pm, the massive sawmill roars to life as its enormous blade cuts through thick Oregon logs, offering a rare look at the machinery that helped shape communities across the region in the early 1900s. The demonstrations are included with Museum admission. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/lazinka-sawmill.

High Desert Ranch
Daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through Monday, September 7

Visitors can step into the rhythms of ranch life at the High Desert Ranch, now open daily from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm throughout the summer. Nestled among the Museum’s pine forest, the ranch brings the stories of early High Desert homesteads to life through historic buildings, gardens, animals, and hands-on, interactive experiences. Museum volunteers and staff in period dress educate guests about the buildings and daily life in the early 1900s. Learn more about the ranch at highdesertmuseum.org/1904-high-desert-ranch.

Welcome the Night
Wednesday, July 15 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Visitors are invited to celebrate sundown with the return of Welcome the Night on July 15. The event takes place after hours from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., marking the transition between day and night when nocturnal wildlife stirs. Participants are encouraged to bring a headlamp or flashlight and learn how a dark night sky free from light pollution is critical for wildlife.

The family-friendly event includes telescope tours, insect discoveries, bat detecting, a wildlife encounter, arts and crafts, face painting, food and drinks for purchase, raffle prizes and more. Tickets for adults and children (ages 3 and older) are $10. Children 2 and younger are free. Museum members receive 20% discount. Learn more and reserve tickets at highdesertmuseum.org/welcomethenight26.

Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration
Daily through January 3, 2027

For those too-hot summer days, visitors should keep in mind the indoor art exhibitions and galleries. Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration is an immersive and interactive experience that takes visitors on a journey of history, science, and geology. Listen to the rumble of a volcano as it towers in the center of the gallery, play a game of “floor is lava,” and discover the stories and the technology behind the rumbling giants among us.

Nearby, visitors can discover the bold murals, sculptures, and hand-drawn animations of artist Miguel Almeida in his exhibition, Las Manos que dan de Comer (The Hands That Feed). Listen to the sounds of the fields and the people who work the land and harvest the fresh fruits and vegetables bound for local markets and dinner tables. Discover more about the Museum’s exhibitions at highdesertmuseum.org/exhibitions.

Art in the West
July 18 through October 2

On July 18, the Museum opens its annual Art in the West juried exhibition and silent auction. The exhibition celebrates the landscapes, wildlife, people, cultures and history of the High Desert. More than 120 works will be on display at the Museum, blanketing the walls with photographs, oil paintings, sculptures, acrylics, and more. Learn more about the 2026 Art in the West at highdesertmuseum.org/aiw.

Plan your visit to the High Desert Museum at highdesertmuseum.org.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

The HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2025 recipient of the Autry Public History Prize from the Western History Association and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. 

###

Date: Wed, June 24th, 2026

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_june_24_menopause/

Menopause is becoming a buzzword! How do we separate the science from sensationalism?

Find out in this fascinating tour through the world of hormone fluctuations, ovarian aging, and medical interventions. We’ll cover: 

• Perimenopause vs menopause
• The impacts of menopause vs the effects of getting older
• Why hormone therapy went from favored to feared overnight, and what we’ve learned since
• How menopause affects our risks for chronic diseases
• Hormones: good for long-term health? Some safer than others? 
• What non-hormonal therapies are there?

Christina Cameli (she/her) is a Certified Nurse-Midwife and a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. She is the owner of Menopause Northwest, LLC,

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