On Wednesday, November 12th, 2025, the Lincoln City Police Department received a request from the Oregon State Police at the Cape Lookout Ranger Station for tracking a fleeing felony suspect. A Lincoln City Police K9 handler, along with K9 Nix, responded to the area. They were familiar with the area due to a response the previous day to the same park. K9 Nix successfully tracked the suspect, 34-year-old Alexander Eaton, of Salem Oregon hiding in the nearby forest. Once cornered, Eaton surrendered to Law Enforcement. Eaton was transported to the Tillamook County Jail and lodged on felony charges. That investigation continues.

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

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is investigating a crash that killed a 68-year-old bicyclist.

This investigation began at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, when emergency dispatchers with the Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC) received information about a person down near 9920 South Riverside Drive.

Portland Fire & Rescue, American Medical Response (AMR), and Portland Police Bureau (PPB) all responded.

When first responders arrived, they found a 68-year-old man with traumatic injuries.

Community members on-scene had already started life-saving efforts. However, the man died on scene.

PPB activated its Major Crash Team. During the initial investigation, law enforcement determined the crash occurred in a MCSO patrol district.

PPB notified MCSO and an on-duty deputy assigned to the East County Vehicular Crimes Team responded to assist with the investigation.

Based on the preliminary investigation, the bicyclist was traveling south, lost control of his bike after potentially hitting a rock on the shoulder of the roadway, fell, and was then struck by an SUV traveling south.

Initial first responders found a bicycle helmet on scene, which they believe the 68-year-old victim was wearing at the time of the crash.

The driver, a 32-year-old man, remained on scene.

At this time, no arrests have been made and no citations issued. Once the investigation is complete, it will be submitted to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office (MCDA) for review.

MCDA will make a charging decision based on the available evidence and upon conducting a legal analysis.

The bicyclist is identified as Rutilo Moreno Jorge.

MCSO recognizes the assistance of PPB’s Major Crash Team for their initial response and assistance with this investigation and the Lake Oswego Police Department and Oregon Department of Transportation for assisting with traffic control.

MCSO also commends the efforts of the community members who provided immediate care to Mr. Jorge.

The East County Vehicular Crimes Team (VCT) is comprised of specially trained law enforcement members from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Gresham Police Department and Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. VCT is responsible for investigating serious and deadly vehicle crashes and crimes in Gresham, Fairview, Maywood Park, Troutdale, Wood Village and unincorporated Multnomah County.

If anyone has any information regarding this incident, they are asked to contact 503-988-0560 and reference case number 25-44005.

No additional details are available for release.

No photos from the scene are available.

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.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Sammuel Hawkins, Outreach & Public Programs Manager
Clark County Historical Museum
Email: Outreach@cchmuseum.org | Phone: 360-993-5679

Clark County Historical Museum Unveils New Exhibit: Echoes of Fort Vancouver: How the Fur Trade Shaped Clark County

Opening Reception: Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660
Admission: Free and open to the public

VANCOUVER, WA (November 2025) – The Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) is proud to announce the opening of its newest exhibit, Echoes of Fort Vancouver: How the Fur Trade Shaped Clark County, debuting Saturday, December 13, 2025. The opening reception will take place from 5:00 to 7:00 PM and is free and open to the public.

Timed to coincide with the 200th anniversary of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s (HBC) Fort Vancouver, this exhibit explores how centuries of trade—beginning with Indigenous networks that predate European contact—transformed the region into a vital center of commerce and culture.

Exhibit Highlights

Echoes of Fort Vancouver guides visitors through centuries of exchange and adaptation—beginning with the extensive Indigenous trade networks that crisscrossed the Pacific Northwest, through the maritime fur trade of the 18th century, and into the establishment of Fort Vancouver in 1825. The exhibit also examines the lasting impact of trade on the county’s industries, agriculture, and cultural landscape.

Key exhibit sections include:

• Crossroads and Trade Routes: The Indigenous trade systems of the region before European contact.
   

• The Hudson’s Bay Company: The rise of one of the world’s most powerful trading enterprises and its North American expansion.
   

• Life at Fort Vancouver: A look at the diverse people and communities who lived and worked at the fort.
   

• Growth, Change, and Tension: How increasing American migration transformed the region.
   

• Industry and Agriculture: The roots of Clark County’s economic development.
   

• Asian American and Pacific Islander and Native Nations Today: The continuing contributions of Hawaiian and Native communities in shaping Clark County.
   

The exhibit features historic maps, artwork, and artifacts, including depictions of HBC’s vast territories, reconstructed views of Fort Vancouver, and 17th-century fur trade imagery from the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

A special section, “Impact of the Fur Trade,” highlights how the overharvesting of beaver populations and environmental changes still resonate today—contrasting 19th-century exploitation with modern conservation efforts.

The Clark County Historical Museum gratefully acknowledges the support of our exhibit sponsors, whose partnership has made this exhibition possible:

Clark College Foundation

C-TRAN

Heritage Bank

RealVest

Riverview Bank

WSU Vancouver (WSUV)

About the Clark County Historical Museum

Since 1964, the Clark County Historical Museum has preserved and shared the history, art, and culture of Southwest Washington. Through exhibits, lectures, tours, and community programs, CCHM connects people with the past to build a stronger future for Clark County.

DPSST NFPA Airport Firefighter Task Force

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Deparment of Public Safety Standards and Training's NFPA Airport Task Force will hold a regular meeting at 0900 on November 13, 2025.The meeting will be held in Room A-145 at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST or Department) located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon 97317. A request for an interpreter for the deaf or hearing impared or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made before the meeting by calling Brooke Bell-Uribe at 503-569-8260 or at rooke.Bell-Uribe@dpsst.oregon.gov?subject=NFPA%20Airport%20Firefighter%20Task%20Force%20Accommodations">Brooke.Bell-Uribe@dpsst.oregon.gov. 

To view the NFPA Airport Firefighter Task Froce Meeting's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST/streams.

Agenda Items:

This agenda is a guideline. Depending on the decisions and directions of the Task Force, this agenda is subject to change at the discretion of the Chair and Task Force memembers.

•  Meeting called to order at 0900
• Rules of Engagment
• Establish the Chair and Vice Chair of the committee
• Discussion identifying changes between the 2019 Edition of NFPA 1003 and the 2024 Edition of NFPA 1010
• Discuss NFPA Airport Firefighter Application for Certification
• DiscussNFPA Airport Firefighter Task Books
• Discuss NFPA Airport Firefighter Guide to Certification
• Discuss OAR as related to NFPA 1010

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 NFPA Firefighter Task Force 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.

Property liens waived for correction of code violations.

• New Lien Forgiveness Program benefits property owners and the community
• Program forgives liens for unpaid civil penalties and derelict structure fees if all Property Maintenance Code violations are corrected.
• Program began November 10, 2025, and all work must be completed by June 30, 2026

Salem, Ore. – Clearing property code violations just got easier. Salem is now offering a new Lien Forgiveness Program for property owners in the city that have received property code violations and have been unable to pay them.
 

Participants in the new lien forgiveness program will repair or restore their properties, correcting any code violations before June 30, 2026, and the City will forgive unpaid penalties and derelict structure fees.
 

The City of Salem Lien Forgiveness Program is a temporary program designed to encourage property owners to voluntarily correct public nuisances such as trash and debris, derelict structures, and other Property Maintenance Code violations on their properties, in exchange for the forgiving of City liens.
 

“This new program has been created to help property owners alleviate the financial burden of liens for distressed properties and reduces barriers for property transfers and property rehabilitation; benefiting the property owner and the community,” said Mitch Nickolds, Salem’s Compliance Services Manager and designated Health Officer.
 

Salem currently has 321 liens valued at $810,104 and there are 72 properties with City liens eligible for forgiveness. The City anticipates that participation in this program will provide a decrease in inspection services and associated costs of monitoring uncorrected Property Maintenance Violations.

Applicants can learn more about the program and download the application form at https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/neighborhoods/report-concerns/code-enforcement. Additional information about Salem’s Lien Forgiveness Program is available by calling 503-588-6421 or emailing mnickolds@cityofsalem.net.

# # #

OHA data show poor air quality linked to more emergency visits

Our community members and media partners are invited to attend a facility preview event to get updates on the planned Tigard Police and Public Works facility.

WHEN: Monday, November 17^th: drop in anytime between 5:30 – 8PM

WHERE: Burgess Community Room at the Tigard Public Library (13500 SW Hall Blvd.)

WHAT: See a 3D model of the current design for the first time, chat with the architect and builder teams, learn about bond options, ask questions and give your feedback! Kids activities and snacks will be provided for free.

WHO: This event will bring together City of Tigard staff working on this project, elected officials and external partners, including Otak (project manager), Scott Edwards Architecture (architect) and P&C I Perlo (construction manager / general contractor). Interviews will be available on site.

A safe, updated building will ensure our first responders can continue delivering essential services to our community when they’re needed the most. This proposed bond for May 2026 will fund a new, integrated home for our police and public works teams that will allow us to respond faster and more effectively to everyday issues and in times of crisis.

By passing the proposed bond, we can also:

• Protect our first responders, so they can continue to do their jobs protecting us,
• Better prepare our city and our community for an emergency or natural disaster, including the construction of a safe, modern Emergency Operations Center,
• Improve our public safety and public works services for everyone in Tigard, whether it’s responding to a street repair or a police call,
• Plan thoughtfully for our long-term community needs.

Learn more about the project and get updates as we move forward at www.tigard-or.gov/BuildingABetterTigard.

###

Gresham, Ore.— On November 6^th, Gresham police officers responded to a report of two people fighting at a video lottery establishment near SE 182^nd Ave and SE Powell Blvd.  Officers arrived to find 35-year-old David Lomas unconscious in the parking lot.  Lomas was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival at the hospital.   An autopsy determined Lomas died of blunt force trauma. 

Detectives with the East County Major Crimes Team learned Lomas had been involved in a physical fight with 35-year-old Richard Henderson moments before he collapsed.  This morning, detectives and East Metro SWAT served a warrant at Henderson’s residence in the 200 block of SE Vista Ave.  Henderson was taken into custody without incident.  He was booked into Multnomah County Jail for Manslaughter in the Second Degree.

Police are asking anyone with information about this incident to contact Detective Martin Daly at tin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov">Martin.Daly@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Lindsay Friderich at iderich@GreshamOregon.gov">Lindsay.Friderich@GreshamOregon.gov.

No additional information is being released at this time.

SALEM, Ore. — The Regional Forest Practice Committee for eastern Oregon will meet virtually at 9 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 17. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Operator of the Year decision

The public may 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 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

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

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

PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland General Electric plans and prepares year-round for inclement and extreme weather conditions and encourages customers to be prepared, too. As winter approaches, the potential for weather-related power outages caused by strong wind, snow and ice grows each day.

Our goal is to keep the lights on for our customers. That’s why we’re always working to run the grid safely and reliably. We prepare for storms and extreme weather by trimming trees near power lines, using advanced weather forecasts and monitoring conditions with high-tech tools like our AI-powered cameras and weather stations.

Important safety information:

• If you see a downed power line:
  • Never touch a downed power line – or anything else the line is touching.
  • Always assume powerlines are live and stay at least 50 feet away (that’s a little longer than a city bus).
  • You should always assume downed power lines are electrified and extremely dangerous, they don’t have to spark or sizzle to be live.
  • If you see downed power lines, call 911, then report it to PGE at 503-464-7777.

Things customers can do now to prepare:

• Prepare an outage kit that includes:           
  • Flashlight or headlamps                                                      
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and alarm clock or watch
  • Car charger for your cell phone, laptop or tablet
  • 72-hour supply of ready-to-eat food and water
  • Any required medications
  • Extra blankets
  • Bottled water for people and animals
• Be familiar with safe cooking, heating and lighting practices. Information on safe generator use and other safety tips are available on portlandgeneral.com/safety.
• If you have an electric garage door opener, learn how to operate it manually.
• For more winter-ready tips, visit portlandgeneral.com/beprepared.

What to do if your power goes out.

For customers whose power is out, PGE offers several ways to get updates or report an outage:

• Text updates: Please make sure PGE has your contact information up to date so we can provide you with outage information via text message (outage texts are currently available for residential and small business customers with fewer than six accounts).
• Online: Go to portlandgeneral.com/outage to view PGE’s outage map, which is the best place to go for real-time outage information.
• App: Download the PGE app at the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Links also available at portlandgeneral.com/app.
• Phone: Call 503-464-7777 or 800-544-1795 to report a power outage or downed line through our automated system. Customers can also request a call back when power is restored.

About Portland General Electric Company

Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) is an integrated energy company that generates, transmits and distributes electricity to nearly 950,000 customers serving an area of 1.9 million Oregonians. Since 1889, Portland General Electric (PGE) has been powering social progress, delivering safe, affordable, reliable and increasingly clean electricity while working to transform energy systems to meet evolving customer needs. PGE customers have set the standard for prioritizing clean energy with the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the country. PGE was ranked the No. 1 utility in the 2024 Forrester U.S. Customer Experience Index and is committed to reducing emissions from its retail power supply by 80% by 2030 and 100% by 2040. In 2024, PGE employees, retirees and the PGE Foundation donated $5.5 million and volunteered nearly 23,000 hours to more than 480 nonprofit organizations. For more information visit www.PortlandGeneral.com/news

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Media hotline: 503-813-6018

Stay Safe This Fall: Top Home Safety Tips
Autumn is an ideal time to tackle maintenance projects around your home and yard

PORTLAND, OR. (Nov. 12, 2025) — As leaves change and fall weather settles over the Pacific Northwest, the chill in the air is a timely reminder to look around your yard and take care of home maintenance.

“Fall is a great time to check the condition of your trees and a good opportunity to prune them before they become an issue once storms start,” said Jeremy Gee, Pacific Power’s vice president of health and safety. “Winter storms often cause branches to fall, leading to power outages. Take a moment to check around your property for trees or limbs that could damage power lines if they came down. A little preventive action now can help you avoid future outages and the inconvenience they bring.”

Use caution when pruning trees. Don't use pruning tools or ladders near power lines. Always keep yourself and anything you're handling at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines. Never try to remove a branch that is tangled or lying across a power line. Instead, call Pacific Power at
1-888-221-7070. We'll be happy to remove it for you.

Some additional tips for fall safety:

• Treat all electric lines with caution.
   
• Use only wooden and fiberglass ladders. Metal ladders conduct electricity.
   
• Be aware and steer clear of overhead electrical wires when installing, removing, cleaning or repairing gutters.
   
• Never use electrical equipment or tools near a pool or other wet areas such as puddles. Additionally, make sure outlets are equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter, designed to automatically disconnect if the tool comes into contact with water.
   
• Plant trees and shrubs away from meters, switching cabinets and boxed transformers. Vegetation that blocks electrical equipment makes repairs and maintenance challenging and sometimes dangerous for utility workers.
   
• Have help when installing or adjusting a satellite dish or antenna. Make sure you’re working at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines.
   
• Underground power lines are just as dangerous as overhead ones. If your project involves digging, make sure the locations of underground power lines are marked. Call 811 to have underground utilities located and marked for free.

For more safety tips or to order free Pacific Power safety materials, call toll free at 800-375-7085 or visit PacificPower.net/Safety.

###

About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, thermal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit PacificPower.net.

PORTLAND, Ore. – Across the nation, community colleges are seeing fewer first-generation and low-income students complete their degree programs. At Portland Community College, this national decline is colliding with a local reality of recovering enrollment and increasing financial pressure for a turning point at the state’s largest postsecondary institution.

Yet amid these challenges, PCC has found opportunity. With the support of federal, state and philanthropic partners, the college is reshaping how it approaches student success. Under these pressures, PCC has become increasingly strategic in how it sees students' success by instituting the First-Year Experience (FYE).

While most community colleges in the country have similar first-year experience programs (estimates are at 80%), PCC employed a design team made up of staff from different departments to create a first-year experience that would be tailored specifically to the college. This student-centered initiative is designed to support new students during one of the most critical times in their educational journey: their very first year of college.

“Creating a sense of belonging and connection for students is incredibly important,” said Josh Laurie, dean of College Success Programs. “That first term, second term and that first year are crucial for building student momentum.”

A Strong Start for First-Generation Students

Starting college can be overwhelming, especially for first-generation students who often have no family roadmap to follow. PCC’s new FYE program aims to change that by surrounding students with personalized guidance and connection from day one.

FYE builds on the success of nationally recognized Future Connect, a mentoring program launched in 2011 that pairs first-generation and low-income students with dedicated coaches and scholarships. After FYE’s pilot year in 2024–25 that reached approximately 2,000 first-time, first-generation students, PCC expanded the effort to include “all first-time-in-college” students, about 5,000 this fall.

Each participant is paired with a FYE coach, who provides one-on-one guidance throughout the academic year. Coaches text students weekly, remind them about campus resources and events, and help them navigate challenges from financial aid to course registration.

“Our First-Year Experience coaches provide holistic, wraparound support to every single student,” said Jana Daugherty, program coordinator. “They support the whole human, not just the individual in class.”

This includes connecting students with all PCC on-campus resources like the Student Basic Needs Center for referrals to childcare, PCC Panther Pantry, counseling, bike rentals, transit passes, as well as off-campus resources like housing and more.

Connecting Students Through Pathways 

To deepen that support, PCC has embedded six FYE coaches within its guided pathways or academic grouping. This alignment allows coaches to connect students to one another and pathway-specific opportunities and resources.

“This year, what we did is we connected coaches to every guided pathway,” Laurie explained. “Now they have a very specific pathway they're aligned with to better serve students.”

That personalized connection helps students see how their studies fit into long-term goals while ensuring no one slips through the cracks. Daugherty said the outreach begins even before students step into class.

“Coaches reach out weekly, usually it’s a text message,” she said. “Even if students don’t engage every time, they know they’re not alone on this journey.”

FYE also includes an interactive online module hosted on D2L, PCC’s learning platform. Modeled after the college’s “success courses,” the module gamifies learning as students complete weekly levels, earn badges, and can qualify for scholarships by finishing all levels.

Last year’s pilot showed strong early results: FYE met nearly all its goals for retention, grade-point average and credit completion, and about half of all students regularly engaged with their coaches. Those outcomes encouraged the college to scale up the program across all campuses.

A Community Investment

PCC designed FYE with long-term sustainability in mind. Its braided funding model combines general fund support, private donations and foundation grants.

The PCC Foundation received one of its largest gifts by an individual donor to fund the initiative. The $1 million gift pledge by Brigid Flanigan, who is founder and principal of Tenfold Senior Living, is helping build and expand the offerings and support. The pledge will be fulfilled at $200,000 per year over five years.

Laurie said other foundations like the Oregon Community Foundation and Meyer Memorial Trust also have provided funding. 

Faculty and staff are also playing a role. Course rosters now include an FYE attribute identifying participating students, allowing instructors to offer extra encouragement and connect them with their coaches when needed. Ultimately, the FYE is about more than numbers, it is about belonging.

“I would say first-generation students show up as really brave,” Daugherty said. “Our college community is so much better because of all of them.”

Laurie agrees. “When I see texts from students saying, ‘Thank you for this. I’m so excited for next week,’ that’s really special,” he said. “Those moments remind us why this work matters.”

For more information visit the pcc.edu/first-year and meet FYE’s staff.

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.

In past years, the City of Salem partnered with Marion County to host a Fall Leaf Haul; however, that program was discontinued in 2024 due to declining attendance. We thank everyone who participated and volunteered at this event through the years.

Travelers are also asked to use caution during wet leaf season. Wet leaves on roadways can make pavement slippery at intersections and for pedestrians and cyclists.

If you see issues with a storm drain or need to report flooding, contact Public Works Dispatch, at 503-588-6311 or service@cityofsalem.net.

Oregon Heritage Commission has awarded $378,971 in grants to 31 organizations throughout the state. The grants will help fund a variety of projects including collection preservation and access, research, oral history, exhibits, and performance projects. Award amounts ranged $1,656 - $20,000.

Funded projects:

• Applegate House Heritage Arts and Education to create a plan for storage and care of collections.
• Centro Cultural, in Cornelius, to provide Ballet Folklorico program.
• Chehalem Culture Center, in Newberg, to develop traveling trunks for grades 3-5.
• City of Salem to complete archaeological excavation and testing to local and document the remains of the structure and artifacts of the Oregon Methodist Mission Indian Manual Labor Training School.
• City of St. Helens to digitize and make available the “St. Helens Chronicle” on the University of Oregon Historic Oregon Newpapers website.
• Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, in Pendleton, to support collections care.
• Coquille Indian Tribe, in Coos Bay, to develop and fabricate a display for the traditional dugout canoe fragment housed at the South Slough Reserve visitor center.
• Crossroads Art Center, in Baker City, to complete an assessment of 10 wagons on display at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center.
• Eagle Point Friends of the Library, in Eagle Point, to digitize the “Upper Rogue/Eagle Point Independent” newspaper.
• Egyptian Theatre Preservation Association, in Coos Bay, to conduct a structural analysis of the theatre’s fly loft.
• Hellenic-American Cultural Center and Museum, in Portland, research and document Greek Americans and Greek American communities across Oregon.
• Japanese American Museum of Oregon, in Portland, to create an exhibition on Japanese American contributions to democracy and increasing participatory democracy through action.
• Jefferson County Historical Society and Museum, in Madras, for HVAC in the museum.
• Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, in Joseph, to provide and document a visit to Sis-nim-mux for Nez Perce community members Wallowa exploring campsites, food, burial and vision quest sites.
• Keepers of Heceta Head Lighstation, in Lane County, to update interpretive signs at Heceta Head Lightstation.
• Oregon Fire Service Museum, Memorial & Learning Center, in Brooks, to restore four iron bases and columns salvaged from the Capitol Building that burned in 1935 and install them on a memorial courtyard.
• University of Oregon Museum of Natural and Cultural History, in Eugene, to complete a field school at the Applegate House in Douglas County and complete the processing of information and materials gathered from the field school.
• Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation, in Portland, to install operational systems onto the boiler and tender of the steam locomotive.
• Portland Art Museum to conserve, catalog, and research the objects associated with Oregon Tribes.
• Rainier Oregon Historical Museum, in Rainier, to complete nine oral histories and establish listening kiosk at the museum.
• Sandy Historical Society to complete an assessment of the museum’s collections.
• Siuslaw Pioneer Museum, in Florence, to produce walking tours.
• Southern Oregon Historical Society, in Medford, to make available online over 6,000 glass plate negatives of photographer Peter Britt.
• Springfield Museum to purchase exhibit cases.
• Vanport Mosaic, in Portland, to establish a community-centered framework to transform the collection into a sustainable, publicly accessible archive.
• Tillamook County Pioneer Museum, to assess the Indigenous collection in pursuit of NAGPRA compliance.
• University of Oregon, in Eugene, to complete pedestrian survey for and documentation of culturally modified trees within the Willamette National Forest.
• Upper Rogue Historical Society and Trail Tavern Museum, in Trail, to repair the floor of the museum.
• Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland, in Wallowa, to upgrade the interpretive center storage and displays.
• Wetlands Conservancy, in Portland, to enhance water quality and wildlife habitat at four urban wetlands in the Portland metropolitan area through an Indigenous-led assessment and restoration approach.
• Willamette Heritage Center, in Salem, to complete preservation assessments on historic buildings at the site.

This competitive grant program is for qualifying organizations, and is offered once per biennium for projects that conserve, develop or interpret Oregon’s heritage. It is a program of the Oregon Heritage Commission. The Commission works to secure, sustain and enhance Oregon’s heritage. The Commission consists of nine members appointed by the governor and nine agency advisors. Members are chosen from state agencies and statewide organizations, and represent diverse geographical and cultural backgrounds.

The Commission is part of Oregon Heritage, a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. To learn more about the Oregon Heritage Grant or the Oregon Heritage Commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, William Booker Justham, Jr., died the afternoon of November 11, 2025. Justham was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Justham entered DOC custody on September 7, 2021, from Linn County with an earliest release date of May 28, 2040. Justham was 89 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem. Additional information about the Oregon Department of Corrections can be found at www.oregon.gov/doc.

###

Washougal School District is seeking applications from District residents interested in being appointed to committees to write the “for” and “against” statements for the Clark and Skamania County Local Voters’ Pamphlets related to the District’s following two ballot measures to be considered at the February 10, 2026 election: Renewal Educational Programs and Operation Levy, and Renewal Capital Levy for Educational Technology, Health and Safety Improvements.

Interested residents should send their name, address, email address, phone number and committee name (or which position they represent) to: Kori Kelly, Administrative Assistant, Washougal School District, 4855 Evergreen Way, Washougal, WA 98671 or via email at i.kelly@washougalsd.org">kori.kelly@washougalsd.org by noon on December 3, 2025. The Board will take action on the appointments at its December 9, 2025 meeting. Contact information for individuals appointed by the Board may be listed in the local voters’ pamphlet. For more information, please reference the Clark County “Election Guide for Jurisdictions and Local Voters’ Pamphlet Administrative Rules” available at: https://clark.wa.gov/elections/jurisdictions.

On Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 4:13 a.m., deputies serving the city of Cornelius responded to a report of an explosive device being thrown at a door near the 300 block of N 10^th Avenue in Cornelius. After coming out and taking a closer look at the damage, the 911 caller found multiple bullet holes in the door of the home. Thankfully, no one was injured by the explosion or the gunfire.

Responding deputies contacted the Washington County Community Violence Reduction Team (CoVRT) and the Metro Explosives Disposal Unit to assist in the investigation. During the investigation, deputies discovered this was a targeted attack and believed the suspect was known to the victim. Deputies called on additional resources to help in arresting the suspect and shared concerns that he may have a firearm and additional explosive devices.

The Tactical Negotiations Team (TNT), Crisis Negotiations Unit (CNU), Remotely Operated Vehicle Team (ROVT), and Incident Management Team (IMT) responded. Investigators with CoVRT applied for a search warrant at a home near the 13000 block of SW Cottontail Lane in Beaverton, where the suspect, 37-year-old Samuel Lund, lived.

At about 10:30 p.m., before executing a search warrant, investigators saw Lund leaving the home on a bicycle, heading towards SW Scholls Ferry Road, where they intercepted and took him into custody. Investigators then served the search warrant on Lund’s home, discovering additional explosive devices.

Lund was transported to the Washington County Jail and charged by the District Attorney’s Office on the following charges:

• Attempted Murder in the First Degree (x4)
• Attempted Murder in the Second
• Arson in the First Degree
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon (x4)
• Felon in Possession of a Firearm
• Unlawful Manufacture of a Destructive Device
• Unlawful Possession of a Destructive Device

If you witnessed the incident in Cornelius and have not yet spoken to investigators, please contact non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 referencing case number 57-22-1150. 

Saturday, November 22 | 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Willamette Heritage Center – Spinning Room, Salem, Oregon

SALEM, Ore. – The Salem Multicultural Institute (SMI) and World Beat Festival invite the community to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the world at this year’s World Beat Holiday Market. The event will take place Saturday, November 22, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Willamette Heritage Center’s Spinning Room at 1313 Mill Street SE in Salem.

For just $5 admission, guests can shop a diverse selection of handcrafted works by artisans representing cultures from across the globe—while helping support SMI and World Beat’s year-round cultural and educational programming. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, these events depend on community support to continue fostering cross-cultural exchange, creating economic opportunities, and showcasing global traditions.

“Salem has more than 106 languages spoken in our school district,” said Terry Romero, Marketing Director for the World Beat Festival. “Our diversity is what makes us great—and the Holiday Market is a joyful way to celebrate that together.”

Attendees can browse an extraordinary variety of goods, including:

• Artisan Mexican crafts, Ghanaian drums and jewelry, Celtic and Scandinavian gifts, and Native American beadwork.
   

• Ukrainian art, Micronesian earrings, forged knives, island textiles, organic teas, jams and preserves, candles, soaps, and more.
   

• Live pottery demonstrations, personalized ornaments, and henna art.
   

When it’s time for a break, guests can enjoy delicious global eats, including shrimp or chicken creole from Cajun Cookin’, fresh beignets, and chocolate-covered strawberries with pistachios.

A 50/50 cash raffle will also be held, with the drawing at 5:30 p.m. (winner need not be present to claim their prize).

Follow World Beat on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit WorldBeat.org and SalemMulticultural.org to learn more about exhibits, programs, and upcoming cultural events.

About the Salem Multicultural Institute & World Beat: The Salem Multicultural Institute (SMI) and its signature event, the World Beat Festival, celebrate the cultural richness of our community. Through year-round exhibits, performances, and educational programs, SMI strives to create opportunities for cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of the many traditions that make Salem unique. www.SalemMulticultural.org, 503-581-2004.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

BEND, OR — In the 19^th and early 20^th centuries, illustrated maps and advertisements functioned as powerful enticements to attract new inhabitants to the West. Opening Saturday, November 15 at the High Desert Museum, Drawn West: A History of Promoting Place explores a century of salesmanship, when artists and cartographers alike crafted an image of the West that depicted both fact and fiction.

The visually engaging exhibition will feature 50-plus maps, artworks and advertisements from the Museum’s extensive collections, including work by prominent Western artists Frederic Remington, Charles M. Russell, Edward B. Quigley and Edward Borein. Visitors will explore the decades of westward expansion, as roads, railroads, national parks and ski resorts began to sprout across the landscape.

“The Museum is privileged to care for some truly amazing historical documents and artworks, and this exhibition incorporates some truly engaging, special pieces from our vault,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “Drawn West brings together these items into a visual history of how narratives about the West took shape.”

The West’s inspiring mountains, broad plateaus and rapid rivers have long evoked a strong connection to a mythic Western character. Artists often represented Western cultures and landscapes through a romantic lens, at times infusing myth into marketing.

Leveraging the Museum’s collection of 29,000 objects, the exhibition is divided into five sections: Westward Expansion, Railroads, Roads, Recreation and Reclamation–covering 100 years of change.

Each section dives into not only the national and legal challenges but also the regional response as more people moved West–all from the lens of the artists, cartographers and marketers of the time. From the growth of cities and towns along railways in the High Desert to the first Pendleton Round-Up in 1910 and the construction of the Bonneville Dam in the 1930s, each artwork, map and advertisement on display tells a story of near-constant change.

Some of the illustrated maps and art on display include Portrait of Crowfoot, a watercolor on paper by Russell, as well as Russell’s first article published in Harper’s Weekly in 1888, Caught in the Act. The article detailed the harsh realities of inadequate food supplies for Indigenous peoples forced onto reservations to make way for Euro-American settlement. Russell was known for publicly condemning the government-sponsored settlement of the West and its effect on Indigenous peoples. An original homestead deed from 1907 stands in stark contrast to the detailed painting.

Classic Bronco, a bronze statue by Edward B. Quigley (1895-1984), depicts a bucking bronco and his rider. Quigley used his experiences participating in numerous cattle drives with the Yakama Nation as an inspiration for his art. A copy of Lansford Hastings’ Emigrants Guide to Oregon and California (1845) and a Harper’s Weekly cover illustration by Remington are also on display.

“These are original works by prominent Western artists, some of whom, like Russell, have entire museums dedicated to them,” Whitelaw said. “From an 1841 map of Oregon Territory by Charles Wilkes to bronzes by artists like Quigley to ski advertisements from the 1950s, the exhibition is an engaging look into how the stories of the High Desert were told throughout time.”

From myths and marketing to fact and fiction, Drawn West will encourage visitors to look closer at a century of advertising place. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/drawn-west.

Drawn West: A History of Promoting Place is on view through June 28, 2026. The exhibition is made possible by the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, 100.1 FM KBND and the Visit Central Oregon Future Fund.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

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

###

Vancouver, Wash. – The Vancouver City Council unanimously voted to adopt a new flag after the community-led Flag Selection Committee presented its recommendation to the Council tonight.

“This flag is the result of thoughtful collaboration and creative input from across our community,” said Rose Mendoza, chair of the Flag Selection Committee. “Every element in the design reflects something meaningful about Vancouver, and it is a symbol we can all be proud of now and into the future.”

“Our new flag is a powerful reflection of who we are as a city,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “It represents our natural surroundings, the iconic places that define Vancouver, and the creativity that makes our community special. This flag truly tells the story of a community on the rise.”

Residents were involved throughout the process. The City Council appointed a volunteer committee to select the flag from the 138 entries submitted. Once the committee selected the finalists, the City invited the public to provide feedback on them (1,438 responses were received). The committee used this feedback to inform deliberations and the final flag recommendation to the City Council. To ensure a fair and impartial selection process, all entries were reviewed anonymously, without identifying information. During the review, judges independently created two composite flags by combining elements from multiple submissions they felt worked well together. The original creators whose designs inspired these composites were credited for their contributions.  

Ultimately, the committee recommended a composite flag composed of elements from the flags created by Brooke Nugent and Nathan Hunter as the next flag for Vancouver. The new flag tells the story of a community shaped by the Columbia River, a deep sense of place, and the generations of people who have called this land home.

• The field of green symbolizes Vancouver’s natural environment, forests, parks, and commitment to sustainability.​
• The emblem draws inspiration from iconic Vancouver landmarks (Fort Vancouver, Salmon Run Bell Tower, and the Grant Street Pier). It is a nod to the past and a symbol of forward progress.​
• The white chevron is a strong V for Vancouver, a connection between the land and the water, and a path forward.​
• The field of blue represents the Columbia River and the community’s deep connection to the river that has shaped its culture, economy, and sense of place.

“Vancouver’s flag is meant to be shared, celebrated, and seen throughout our community and beyond,” said Communications Director Laura Shepard. “It is available for creative use, whether you want to print it on a T-shirt, make stickers, design merchandise, or even get a tattoo of the new flag. The only requirement is to keep the colors and layout true to the design. People can download the official files from our website and start creating.”

The new flag will be formally raised on the City Hall flagpole at approximately 3:00 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28, followed by a community introduction and official prize presentation at 3:45 p.m. as part of the annual tree lighting celebration.

Visit Vancouver's Flag to learn more about the new flag.
 

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Lebanon, Oregon, man made his initial appearance today for possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) after being linked to images and groups on social media platforms, including Instagram and Telegram.

Jeremy Russell Bodell, 52, has been charged by criminal complaint with possession of child pornography.

According to court documents, on October 4, 2021, Instagram reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) the distribution of a single video between user “Kildrak Fireblade” and another user depicting child pornography. NCMEC identified Bodell as the likely subscriber of the phone number associated with the Instagram account “Kildrak Fireblade.”

In September 2025, during an investigation into CSAM trading groups, which are invite-only, non-public chat groups, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) came across the username “dax,” who was associated with the same phone number previously identified by NCMEC as belonging to Bodell. The username “dax” was a member of 15 separate CSAM trading groups, which share images, videos, and cloud storage links depicting CSAM. Phone records verified Bodell as the subscriber of the phone number associated with these accounts.

On November 7, 2025, HSI executed a federal search warrant at Bodell’s residence, person, and vehicle. During the execution of the search warrant, law enforcement seized Bodell’s cell phone and found evidence of CSAM, including membership in CSAM groups on social media applications, such as Telegram. Bodell’s gallery in his phone also contained saved images and videos of CSAM material.

During an interview, Bodell told investigators he was previously accused of sex abuse. HSI is investigating these allegations. At the end of the interview, Bodell was arrested for possession of CSAM.

Bodell made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered released with conditions pending further court proceedings.

This case is being investigated by HSI. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eliza Carmen Rodriguez.

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

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.

# # #

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

Deschutes County District Attorney's Office

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office

MEDIA CONTACT:

Steve Gunnels, District Attorney

541-771-6785

Stephen.Gunnels@dcda.us  

BEND, OR - On November 10, 2025, Deschutes County Judge Alison Emerson sentenced 41-year-old Portland resident Samson Garner to 30 years in prison for Attempted Murder and other charges related to the plan and actions that he took to carry out a mass shooting at an event at Smith Rock State Park in October of 2023.

Garner shared plans to show up at a climbing event to rampage through the event, shooting participants and spectators.  He was aware that a few hundred people would be attending. Garner also discussed his persistent thoughts about murder and vengeance and his desire to kill people and inflict intense feelings of shock and trauma on those who would watch but do nothing to help.

In August 2023, the day before the event was scheduled to begin, Garner drove from his residence in the Portland area, after a prolonged period of isolation in his house, to Deschutes County, where he was contacted by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and taken into custody.  He was in possession of multiple firearms, body armor, and a large cache of ammunition. He had packed a tactical vest to capacity with ammunition, including armor-piercing rounds.  

“The conviction of Samson Garner is the result of outstanding investigative work and interagency collaboration that undoubtedly saved lives,” said Sheriff Ty Rupert. “Our Detectives Unit, with vital support from Patrol Deputies, worked closely with the Portland Police Bureau and the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office to track Garner’s movements, gather critical evidence, and build a strong case that ensured justice was served. Their professionalism, diligence, and commitment to protecting our community reflect the very best of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and demonstrate the power of proactive policing and strong partnerships in preventing acts of violence.”

The Portland Police Bureau, which first received information about Garner’s threats, and the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office worked together and performed admirably to stop Garner from carrying out his plan. They took his threats seriously and prevented what would have been a catastrophic mass-casualty incident, had Garner’s plans played out.

“The diligent work by law enforcement prevented a horrific tragedy,” said Portland Police Chief Bob Day. “The remarkable professionalism and seamless coordination across law enforcement—from PPB patrol officers and detectives to our threat assessment team, behavioral health, and our partners at the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office—ensured that nothing fell through the cracks. And it all began with a tip from the community who recognized that one individual could pose a significant danger.”

This case was prosecuted by Senior Deputy District Attorneys Mary Anderson and Stacy Neil on behalf of the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office. After hearing testimony from dozens of witnesses and reviewing over 100 trial exhibits, the jury returned a verdict of guilty on all 26 felony charges.

###

Please be advised that the Bulletin does not include all calls for service to which officers respond.  Many calls do not require that a report be written; such as:

•Traffic Stops

•Advising/Referring a Person to the Proper Agency to handle their request

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Finance Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 13, 2025. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/85902313356?pwd=wpVIeh5KGNzibvuY4giyQgEUTFmYcp.1
Passcode:813689

November 10, 2025

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

Oregon Cannabis Commission seeks to fill 3 open positions

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Cannabis Commission (OCC) is seeking candidates to fill open positions.

The OCC provides advice to Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission regarding Oregon Administrative Rules that govern medical cannabis, as well as retail cannabis, as it pertains to patients and caregivers. More information can be found on the OCC’s website at www.healthoregon.org/cannabiscommission.

The OCC governor-appointed positions are defined in 475C.930 and consist of the state health officer or designee and an eight-member panel. Members serve a term of four years each.

OCC is looking to fill three vacant positions: an attending provider as defined in ORS 475C.777; a local health officer, as described in ORS 431.418; and a person knowledgeable about research proposal grant protocols.

To apply, complete the electronic application on the governor’s Boards and Commissions website at https://www.oregon.gov/gov/Pages/board-list.aspx.

Note that only completed applications will be processed and considered for appointment. The application site lists items needed to apply, including:

• Uploaded resume (PDF only).
• Uploaded short personal bio.
• Responses to the general application and background questions.

Those unable to complete the form electronically should contact the Executive Appointments Office at executive.appointments@oregon.gov for assistance.

For more information or questions, email the board administrator, Megan Lockwood, at .lockwood@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">megan.r.lockwood@oha.oregon.gov.

###

Detectives with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office thwarted a murder-for-hire plot by arresting three men. Detectives assigned to the Violent Crimes Unit learned that 58-year-old Dru Hendrix conspired to pay 50-year-old Mario Guaderrama and 36-year-old Zion Unga to kill the victim, for which Hendrix is facing charges. The men planned the murder while they were all lodged in the Washington County Jail. Hendrix arranged for Unga to receive $30,000 after Unga was released from jail in October. Hendrix also had $30,000 placed on Guaderrama’s jail booking account.

On Thursday, November 6, detectives arrested Unga, who had been released from jail prior to the plot coming to light. Detectives then added charges to Hendrix and Guaderrama, who remained in custody on their prior cases. All three were charged with conspiracy to commit murder in the first degree. Hendrix was also charged with solicitation to commit murder in the first degree and tampering with a witness. Thankfully, the plot was interrupted before the victim was harmed.

The same day the men were arrested, detectives served a search warrant and seized approximately $140,000 from accounts connected to the three men. That was followed by a second search warrant at a Hillsboro home linked to Guaderrama, where detectives seized three handguns, a rifle, a silencer, a switchblade knife, and brass knuckles.

Hendrix was initially arrested in July 2025, and a grand jury indicted him for more than 20 charges. Those details were covered in several prior media releases. He is currently facing 35 charges on multiple cases and also has a pending kidnapping and sexual assault case in Columbia County. Guaderrama was arrested in mid-September after he violated the conditions of release and failed to appear for court on a prior case. Unga was arrested in August for possession of a stolen vehicle and several other charges. He was released in mid-October and then arrested by detectives on this case on November 6.

All three men are being held in jail pending a hearing where the state will request they be denied bail. The investigation is on-going and additional charges are expected. The release of the suspects’ booking photos is for law enforcement purposes and is in accordance with Oregon House Bill 3273 for the identification of additional criminal activity. If you have any information to share about this case, please call the Sheriff’s Office at 503-846-2700 and reference case 50-25-15124.

Nov. 10, 2025

Media Contact: Communications@employ.oregon.gov

MEDIA ADVISORY

Paid Leave Oregon Invites Public Input on Proposed Administrative Rules

Salem, Ore. – Paid Leave Oregon is proposing updates to program rules and inviting public comment.

The proposed changes help clarify how people qualify for Paid Leave Oregon benefits, how employers share information with employees, and how the program handles things like appeals, verification documents, and situations where someone is unable to manage their own claim. The updates also align the program with new state laws passed in the 2023 and 2025 legislative sessions.

The full proposed rule text as well as more information on the related public hearings is attached.

Public comment period

The public may comment through Friday, December 5, 2025 at 11:55 p.m.

Comments may be submitted by email to: ules@employ.oregon.gov">OED_Rules@employ.oregon.gov

Public hearings

Two virtual public hearings are scheduled:

Monday, November 17, 2025

• 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
• Click here to join the meeting
• Phone: 1-669-254-5252
• Conference ID: 1604539652

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

• 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
• Click here to join the meeting
• Phone: 1-669-254-5252
• Conference ID: 1604824733

About the rulemaking process

Updating rules is a regular part of keeping Paid Leave Oregon efficient and accessible to Oregonians. This public comment period allows people review the proposed changes, ask questions, and provide input before rules are finalized. After the comment period closes, the Oregon Employment Department will review feedback and adopt final rules.

If approved, the rules would take effect January 1, 2026.

More information and the full text of the proposed rules are available on the Paid Leave Oregon website.

###

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

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

Prepare to be swept away to the magical land of Oz as the Battle Ground High School drama club proudly presents OZ by Don Zolidis! This witty adaptation reimagines the classic tale with modern twists, laugh-out-loud humor and dazzling performances. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering the story for the first time, this production is sure to leave you smiling from start to finish.

Show information

• Thursday, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m.

• Friday, Nov. 15, at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

• Thursday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m.

• Friday, Nov. 22, at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Purchase tickets online.

• $10 general admission

• $7 students with ASB cards

• Special deal: $30 for all 2025–2026 Battle Ground High School drama club shows!

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County recognizes that older adults are valuable contributors to the vitality of this community. To encourage and support older adults for their contributions, the Clark County Commission on Aging has established a program to recognize older adults by means of an annual award. The COA celebrates 2025 by presenting the 6^th annual Silver Citizen Award at their final meeting of the year. This year’s award recognizes Sharon Wodtke.

Sharon is currently the President of the Board of Directors for Battle Ground Senior Citizens, Inc (BGSC). She has been involved with this group since 2018, and, under her leadership, the group has expanded their impact on the aging community. Since 2018, the BGSC has grown their roster from 90 to over 700 participants and serves up to 200 lunches to area seniors each week. Sharon actively spearheaded a revival of senior activities post-pandemic by recruiting volunteers and developing activities and cost saving programs and educational opportunities. The nomination for Sharon states, “Many seniors have even been moved to tears, expressing deep gratitude for the range of opportunities now available to them.”

The meeting will begin at 4:30 pm Wednesday, Nov. 19, and is open to the public.

Commission on Aging meetings are currently held in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation options. Attend in the sixth-floor Training 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.

Tidewater, OR — On November 6, 2025, at approximately 11:30 PM, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a missing hunter in the Harris Ranch area, just off Highway 34 near Tidewater, OR. The individual had contacted family members to report that he was lost and in need of assistance.

A patrol sergeant from the Sheriff’s Office responded to the area and met with the hunter’s family and friends near the location where the hunter’s vehicle was found. Initial efforts to pinpoint the hunter’s location indicated he was in a steep drainage area with dense brush and limited visibility. Due to the challenging terrain and heavy undergrowth, the decision was made to deploy the Lincoln County Search and Rescue (SAR) team.

SAR personnel arrived on scene and began their search in the area where the hunter was believed to be. They located several personal items that confirmed the hunter’s earlier presence and tracked a trail of belongings further down the drainage. A second SAR team approached from the bottom of the drainage and successfully located the hunter, who was found wet and cold but otherwise uninjured.

After a medical evaluation, it was determined the hunter was able to walk out on his own. He was escorted to waiting vehicles and reunited with his family and friends.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind all outdoor enthusiasts to be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in remote wilderness areas. When venturing out in rainy or windy weather, wear clothing that is water-resistant and windproof. Avoid cotton garments, as they retain moisture and can rapidly draw heat from the body, increasing the risk of hypothermia.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and always let someone know your plans before heading into the wilderness

The Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report highlights how mid-market leaders are responding to economic volatility

PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 10, 2025) — Oregon’s private companies are adopting a cautious yet agile approach as they navigate slowing growth, workforce challenges, capital constraints and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), according to the Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report released today.

The report is based on a survey of more than 60 leaders of private companies in the Western U.S., including 20 Oregon owners and executives representing construction, healthcare, real estate, manufacturing and professional services. It reveals a business environment defined by guarded optimism, operational adaptation and renewed focus on resilience. It was published by Aldrich, a leading accounting and advisory firm headquartered in Portland, Ore. that provides the Western U.S. with a full suite of integrated financial, tax, accounting, wealth, corporate retirement and business transition services.

“Oregon’s business leaders are not standing still—they’re recalibrating,” said John Lauseng, CPA, CEO and Partner of Aldrich. “They’re responding to economic uncertainty by making proactive changes to their supply chain, growth and employment strategies. This agility will be critical to long-term success.”

Outlook is guarded, but leaders are taking action

Only 20% of Oregon business leaders feel optimistic about revenue growth in the year ahead, and nearly one-third (30%) are more pessimistic than they were six months ago. Rising costs, high interest rates and persistent workforce challenges are fueling a cautious approach.

Still, Oregon companies are taking decisive steps to preserve financial health and operational stability:

• 45% have slowed or delayed capital investments to maintain liquidity, while 30% are considering doing this going forward
• 35% have made supply chain changes, with another 45% considering them
• 70% are adjusting talent strategies, from slowing hiring to reducing headcount and hours
• While only 20% have passed increased costs on to customers, and additional 45% are considering doing this in the future.

“We’re seeing Oregon leaders act early rather than react late,” Lauseng added. “They’re protecting core operations and adjusting their strategic plans where needed, while maintaining flexibility and looking for ways to operate more efficiently.”

Leadership gaps in technology and financial insight

Oregon companies acknowledge room for improvement in how they leverage data and technology. Only 30% of leaders are confident in their team’s ability to implement the right technology, and just 10% rate their financial data utilization as excellent.

“Strengthening these capabilities presents an opportunity for businesses to gain real-time insight and sharpen decision-making amid ongoing uncertainty,” Lauseng noted.

Continuity is the top priority for business transitions

Among Oregon business leaders planning for succession, continuity for employees and clients (55%) and finding the right buyer or successor (55%) ranked as the top focus areas. By comparison, only 40% prioritize maximizing sale value and 35% identified minimizing taxes on the sales or transfer, revealing that most Oregon leaders value legacy, relationships and cultural fit over financial return.

At the same time, 75% of owners reported receiving at least one unsolicited offer to sell in the past year. This high level of interest highlights the market demand for well-run private companies, but it also raises the stakes, the report notes.

“The most successful transitions often begin five to ten years in advance,” Lauseng said. “Starting early allows business owners to explore all transition options, identify the right successor and ensure continuity for employees, clients and the business.”

“One Big Beautiful Bill” opens strategic planning opportunities

While most Oregon leaders have a general understanding of the OBBBA, few have applied its provisions to strategic planning. The legislation includes significant tax updates, including permanent full expensing, restored Research & Development (R&D) deductions, enhanced pass-through flexibility and targeted incentives for domestic manufacturing.

Lauseng stressed that early evaluation of these opportunities and thoughtful planning can turn tax code changes into a long-term competitive advantage, especially for businesses considering expansion or ownership transition.

Additional trends shaping Oregon’s mid-market outlook

The Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report also revealed several broader themes:

• Confidence in managing disruption is low: Only 25% of leaders feel prepared to adapt to external shocks such as tariffs or economic volatility
• Financial visibility needs improvement: Just 10% rate their company’s use of financial data as excellent
• Credit conditions are tightening: 45% report greater difficulty accessing outside capital compared with six months ago
• Tariffs and supply chain challenges are pressuring margins: 60% say disruptions have negatively impacted financial health, particularly in manufacturing and construction
• Workforce adjustments under review: While 25% have already reduced hiring or hours, another 45% are considering adjustments as part of a broader workforce strategy

“This year’s data shows that Oregon companies are pragmatic and resilient,” Lauseng said. “They’re balancing near-term caution with forward-looking planning—and that’s a powerful combination in uncertain times.”

About the Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report

The Q4 2025 Aldrich Uncertainty Report provides a snapshot of how private mid-market companies are responding to ongoing economic and legislative change. It reflects survey responses collected by GLG, a financial and global information services consulting company, in August 2025 from business owners and executives representing Oregon’s core industries.

About Aldrich

For more than 50 years, Aldrich has worked with businesses, their owners, and their employees to help them achieve their professional and personal financial goals. We pair deep industry experience with a full suite of integrated financial, tax, accounting, wealth, corporate retirement, and business transition services to help bring clarity to every phase of our clients’ personal and professional life cycles.

The Aldrich group of companies is composed of Aldrich CPAs + Advisors LLP, one of the top 70 accounting firms in the US (Accounting Today); Aldrich Wealth LP, a Registered Investment Advisory firm with over $6.5 billion in assets under advisement; and Aldrich Capital Advisors LP, which provides advisory services for business transactions.

Based in Oregon since our founding in 1973, Aldrich now serves clients across the country from our eight offices throughout the Western US.

Concert November 12 at 7:00 p.m. — Tickets $15

Oregon-based pop artist Hannah Wood brings her powerful voice and vibrant stage presence to the Chemeketa Auditorium on Wednesday, November 12 at 7:00 p.m. as part of the college’s Wonder Wednesdays concert series.

Known for her witty lyricism, charismatic performance style, and genre-bending pop sound, Hannah Wood is one of Oregon’s most exciting new artists. Her debut album, Hello to a Woman, has been nominated for Best Pop, Synth, or Contemporary Album at the 2025 PNW Music Awards, earning her recognition across the Pacific Northwest music scene.

Drawing inspiration from artists like Lizzy McAlpine and Kacey Musgraves, Wood crafts emotionally rich, radio-ready songs that blend authenticity with a contemporary pop edge. Her clear and expressive vocals, paired with her signature storytelling, make her live shows both intimate and electric.

“We’re thrilled to bring Hannah to the Chemeketa stage,” said Stephen Munshaw, Auditorium Manager at Chemeketa Community College. “She represents the incredible local talent thriving in Oregon’s music scene, and audiences are in for a memorable night of fresh, heartfelt pop music.”

Tickets are $15 and available now at Eventbrite Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and seating is reserved. $5 rush seating tickets are available for students!

Event Details

What: Hannah Wood in Concert
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2025 – 7:00 p.m. (Doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
Where: Chemeketa Auditorium, Chemeketa Community College, Salem, OR
Tickets: $15 Reserved Seating
Purchase: Eventbrite

####

About Hannah Wood

Hannah Wood is an Oregon-born pop artist whose work combines clever lyricism, introspective storytelling, and catchy melodies. Her debut album Hello to a Woman has garnered critical praise and a nomination at the 2025 PNW Music Awards. With her relatable songwriting and magnetic performances, Hannah is quickly becoming a defining voice in the Pacific Northwest’s modern pop scene.

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

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

Vancouver, Wash. – The 2025 Vancouver Arts & Music Festival USA has been named Southwest Washington Event of the Year by the Washington Festivals and Events Association (WFEA). The festival also took home the award for Best PR/Media Campaign at WFEA’s annual Grand Summit awards ceremony on Oct. 30 in Bellevue, Washington.

Held July 31–Aug. 3 in downtown Vancouver, the free, four-day multi-disciplinary arts festival brought more than 50,000 attendees together to celebrate music, dance and visual arts. Produced through a partnership between the City of Vancouver and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA, the event showcased more than 60 performances across multiple stages, hundreds of local and regional artists, and generated an estimated $1.6 million in business sales for the community.

“This award recognizes what’s possible when our community comes together around the arts,” said Vancouver Cultural Services Manager, Stacey Donovan. “The festival’s success reflects the creativity, dedication and teamwork of hundreds of staff, artists, and volunteers who made it happen. It’s truly a shared accomplishment for our community.”

After just three years, the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival USA has quickly become one of the region’s largest free arts celebrations, offering an engaging mix of symphonic concerts, contemporary performances, cultural exchange and interactive art experiences.

“At its heart, the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival builds community through the shared joy of the arts,” said Igor Shakhman, CEO of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA. “Thousands of people of all ages gathered in Esther Short Park for our Vancouver Symphony Orchestra concerts with Renée Fleming, Mark and Maggie O’Connor, and Sharon Isbin. It was an inspiring demonstration of how civic and artistic partnerships enrich our quality of life and transform our community into a cultural destination.”

The 2025 festival was supported by more than 100 community volunteers, programming collaborator Clark College Foundation, Keller Foundation, M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, Oliva Family Fund, Waterfront Vancouver USA, and over a dozen other sponsors. Planning is already underway for the 2026 Vancouver Arts & Music Festival, which will continue to build on this year’s momentum to bring people together through creativity and connection.

For more information about the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival, visit www.vancouverartsandmusicfestival.com.

###

UPDATE: SANTOS HAS BEEN LOCATED

RELEASE DATE:                Nov. 9, 2025
CASE NUMBER:                  25-46205
 

Gresham, Ore.—Gresham Police is asking for assistance from the public with locating a missing 41-year-old man, Kai Santos.  The staff at Santos’ care facility in the 400 block of NE 5 St., report that he left yesterday at about 9:30 a.m. Santos is a double amputee and quadriplegic and is unable to care for himself. He has close cropped black hair and brown eyes.

Santos is described by his family as a Filipino male who needs a wheelchair and assistance from someone at all times. It is believed that Santos scheduled a medical transport for himself using a service called Ride To Care but his family has been unable to confirm where he was taken.

Anyone who knows of Santo’s whereabouts is asked to call 911 or non-emergency at 503-823-3333

#30

Lane County, Ore. (Nov. 10, 2025)- On Friday, November 7, 2025, at 3:15 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on SR-569 (Beltline Highway), near milepost 0, in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Honda Accord, operated by Russell Fredrick Moncrief (52) of Eugene, braked suddenly and was struck in the rear by a westbound Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Scott Allen Zipprich (52) of Elmira. The collision caused the Chevrolet to enter the eastbound lane and strike an eastbound Dodge Stratus, operated by Vincent George Canham (84) of Eugene, head-on.

The operator of the Honda (Moncrief) was reportedly uninjured.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Zipprich) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

The operator of the Dodge (Canham) was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital. A passenger in the Dodge, Rolf Bertel Johansson (77) of Sweden, was transported to an area hospital with reportedly minor injuries.

The highway was impacted for approximately 8 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by Eugene Fire, Springfield Fire, and ODOT.

# # #

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

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

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

This investigation is still ongoing, and the Woodburn Police are asking anyone with any information to call the Woodburn Police Department at 503-982-2345 and reference case number 25-7866.

At 1934 this evening, Sweet Home Fire District was dispatched to a structure fire in the 1900 block of 19th ave. Crews arrived to find heavy fire and smoke coming from the structure. Initial reports indicated that it was unknown if anyone was inside the structure. Fire crews arrived and performed a rapid search and confirmed the structure was not occupied. Fire crews then began extinguishing the fire. This area of town presents some challenges as it is an unhydrated area. The commanding officer utilized a 2nd alarm which brought additional man power and additional fire apparatus from our mutual aid partners including a Chief officer and ladder truck from LFD, as well as a water tender from BRFD. Crews worked hard and were able to bring the blaze under control in about 30 minutes. Additionally, crews remained on scene another 2 hours performing overhaul. In total, 3 command officers, 16 firefighters, and 8 apparatus responded to the fire. We would like to thank our mutual aid partners for their assistance. Lebanon Fire District, Brownsville Rural Protection district, Sweet Home Police Dept, and PP&L. The cause of the fire is undetermined. During the incident no firefighters or civilians were injured. 

Photo Credit:  Jennifer Arant  

Updated: MEDIA ADVISORY — FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Event Saturday Nov 15

Viral Thrift Store Twins to Unveil the World’s Largest Pants in Portland

What:
A giant pair of jeans — a jaw-dropping 9 feet wide and 20 feet long — will be unveiled in Portland. The spectacle is the latest wild concept from the ShirtzenPantz thrift store twins, known for turning unexpected ideas into viral attention.

Who:
Ethan and Owen Gail, 23-year-old twin brothers, lifelong Oregonians, and owners of Portland’s now-famous thrift stores ShirtzenPantz  (260,000 Instagram followers, @shirtzenpantz). Their original “kicking a rock into a sphere” video launched them into worldwide meme status — and now they’re back with their biggest stunt yet.

When:
SATURDAY November 15, 2025
Event Hours: 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm.
Pants Unveiling: 7:00 pm.

Where: Shirtzenpantz St. Johns, 7400 North Lombard St.,  Portland, OR 

Why: To turn attention toward secondhand shopping and sustainability — using humor, creativity, and community excitement.

“These pants are ridiculous — which is exactly the point,” said Ethan. “If massive pants get people in the door and buying secondhand, then massive pants it is.”

“Thrifting gives clothing a second life and cuts down on the carbon footprint of fast fashion and shipping,” added Owen.

Media Visuals + Coverage Opportunities:
• Dramatic pants unveiling — photo + video friendly
• Interviews with Ethan and Owen on sustainability + their viral growth
• Coverage of a signature Portland moment

About ShirtzenPantz

Ethan and Owen Gail are native Oregonians, graduating from Wilsonville High School in 2020. Owen is a graduate of Brandeis University (including a year at Oxford) with a degree in business and economics. Ethan graduated from California Polytechnic State University with a degree in manufacturing engineering. After achieving significant success selling clothing online, they opened their first brick-and-mortar store in the Hillsdale Shopping Center, located at 6343 SW Capitol Highway. They later expanded to a second location on N Lombard. There, you can find “Clothing Heaven,” where everything is $5, and discover the mystery of Grandma’s “Secret Salmon Room,” accessible through a magic wardrobe.

This year, Shirtzenpantz was named the Best Thrift Store in the Portland area by The Oregonian/OregonLive readers. Their brand is built on off-beat, wildly creative ideas: turning an irregular rock (“Christosphere”) round by kicking it for months, serving ice cream and cookies to customers, hosting poetry contests, and featuring their 87-year-old grandmother — “Grandma Shirtzenpantz,” Juanita Gail Hall, who hems, repairs, and bedazzles pieces each Wednesday 4–8 pm at the Capitol Highway location. Both stores are open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm www.Shirtzenpantz.com 

The Centennial School District Governing Board will meet for their Regular Business Meeting on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. 

The Board and key staff will attend in-person at CSD's District Office - 18135 SE Brooklyn St., Portland, OR  97236. The public and guests will join virtually via the Zoom app.

To join the meeting, please click on the link below

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87941653784?pwd=i4siR5r-Wc2a2g6vAJDjTqeCuM5gmg.r7p523k5R3NramTn
Passcode:017162

Or Telephone, dial:
     +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799

Webinar ID: 879 4165 3784
Passcode: 017162

The full board meeting packet is available for reference on the Centennial School District website at www.csd28j.org and can be found on the School Board page. The meeting agenda may be updated as needed and additional board meeting documents may be added as they become available. 

For information about the agenda email dan@csd28j.org">melissa_grindle@csd28j.org or oard@csd28j.org">board@csd28j.org.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland, Oregon, man pleaded guilty yesterday on day four of his jury trial where he was accused of sex trafficking three minor victims.

Eric Lamont Harris, 50, pleaded guilty to one count of transportation with intent to engage in prostitution, three counts of sex trafficking of a child, three counts of sex trafficking of a child – benefitting from participation in a venture, and one count of sexual exploitation of children.

According to court documents, Harris began trafficking 15-year-old Minor Victim 1 in Spring 2022. Minor Victim 1 was a ward of the state and reported missing in March 2022. Harris began trafficking 16-year-old Minor Victim 2 in June 2022. In July 2022, Harris brought Minor Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 from Portland to Kennewick, Washington, with the intent that they engage in prostitution at a hotel he booked in Kennewick. After Minor Victim 2’s parents reported her missing, the FBI and Kennewick Police recovered Minor Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 in Kennewick. Harris first met 17-year-old Minor Victim 3 in June 2022, and he began trafficking her in August 2022. Each victim lived with Harris while engaging in prostitution and gave him the proceeds. Harris booked hotel rooms for the minor victims’ commercial sex dates, transported them to and from those dates, facilitated the posting of online escort advertisements featuring the minor victims, and received thousands of dollars’ worth of commercial sex proceeds from the minor victims.

“Sex trafficking is a most despicable crime that, unfortunately, happens here in Oregon. With our state and federal partners, we will stand up on behalf of the victims and do everything within our power to root out this evil and protect our children,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford.

“This guilty plea is a first step in providing some form of closure to the victims and their loved ones,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “This defendant’s systematic approach to sexually exploiting minors for financial gain and satisfaction demonstrates a level of depravity that warrants the full extent of the punishment legally possible.” 

On September 16, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an eight-count indictment charging Harris with transportation with intent to engage in prostitution, sex trafficking of a child, sex trafficking of a child – benefitting from participation in a venture, and sexual exploitation of children.

Harris faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and a life-term of supervised release. He will be sentenced on January 29, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

This case was investigated by the FBI, the Portland Police Bureau, the Kennewick Police Department and the Medford Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charlotte Kelley and Robert Trisotto are prosecuting the case.

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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.  

If you or someone you know are victims of human trafficking or have information about a potential human trafficking situation, please call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also submit a tip on the NHTRC website.

# # #

November 7, 2025

Case:  24CR63562

Portland, OR- A Portland woman who drove drunk and killed another person when she crashed into the car they were riding in, will spend the next seven and a half years in prison.

60-year-old Rosa Victalina Hitzfeld pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, Assault in the Third Degree and Driving while under the influence of an intoxicant. Ms. Hitzfield had two prior DUII convictions, and one prior DUII diversion.

Multnomah County Circuit Judge Jenna Plank sentenced Hitzfeld to 90 months total in prison.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Multnomah County Sheriff's Deputy Gery Fiebich, who served as the lead investigator on this case. 

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would also like to recognize MCDA victim advocate Allison Miller for the care and concern they showed to the victims in this case.

Deputy District Attorney Andrew Wood prosecuted the case for the state. After the sentencing he said: “This was an extremely tragic and difficult incident for the Abbate family to process. The Abbate’s lost a loved one at the hands of a drunk driver, yet they showed a tremendous amount of strength throughout the process and compassion for the defendant. I hope that the sentence imposed by Judge Plank provides the Abbate family with a sense that justice has been served.” 

THE FACTS: 

On October 13, 2024, at about 9 PM, defendant Rosa Hitzfield drove the wrong way down Fairview parkway at with a blood alcohol level of approximately point-18.  Defendant made the turn onto Fairview Parkway from Glisan. Per a review of traffic cameras in the area, the defendant cut the turn short of the center median, and proceeded down the wrong direction of travel on Fairview. The defendant made it to a slight bend in Fairview pkwy, when the defendant struck a vehicle driven by Michael Abbate. Michael Abbate had his wife Vicki Abbate in the right front  passenger seat, and his mother Marcia Abbate in the rear passenger seat. Marcia Abbate passed away due to injuries sustained in the crash. 

PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 7, 2025) -- To support customers affected by the ongoing U.S. federal government shut down and delays in federal assistance programs, Portland General Electric is temporarily expanding protections for customers enrolled in its Income-Qualified Bill Discount and medical certificate programs. Through the end of the year, PGE will suspend service disconnections for Income-Qualified Bill Discount recipients and medical certificate customers.

“PGE understands that some customers are facing difficult decisions,” said Allison Rowden, PGE director of customer service. “We are here for our customers through bill assistance programs and options that can help with your specific situation. We’re just a phone call away.”

These temporary measures are in addition to PGE’s regular winter protections, which prohibit disconnections for all residential customers during times of extreme weather. Together, these measures help ensure customers maintain access to safe, reliable service during this period of uncertainty. Approximately 19,000 households throughout PGE’s service area have lost access to Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

PGE’s Income-Qualified Bill Discount Program is not affected by the government shutdown, and customers enrolled in the program will continue to receive their bill discounts. Residential customers not currently enrolled with a household income at or below 60% of Oregon’s median family income may be eligible to enroll in the program. The exact size of the discount percentage will vary based on household size and income level.

To enroll, eligible customers can sign up

• Online at portlandgeneral.com/iqbd
• Call PGE’s Customer Service at 503-228-6322, where teams are ready to assist in more than 200 languages.

The Income Qualified Discount Program is just one way that PGE works closely with customers who are struggling to pay their bills. PGE can also help by setting up a payment plan, extending payment due dates, or helping connect customers with community resources. Visit Oregon Energy Assistance Programs, LIHEAP & More | PGE for more information.

About Portland General Electric

Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) is an integrated energy company that generates, transmits and distributes electricity to over 950,000 customers serving an area of 1.9 million Oregonians. Since 1889, Portland General Electric (PGE) has been powering social progress, delivering safe, affordable, reliable and increasingly clean electricity while working to transform energy systems to meet evolving customer needs. PGE customers have set the standard for prioritizing clean energy with the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the country. PGE was ranked the No. 1 utility in the 2024 Forrester U.S. Customer Experience Index and is committed to reducing emissions from its retail power supply by 80% by 2030 and 100% by 2040. In 2024, PGE employees, retirees and the PGE Foundation donated $5.5 million and volunteered nearly 23,000 hours to more than 480 nonprofit organizations. For more information visit www.PortlandGeneral.com/news

The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet on Friday, November 21, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:35 a.m. This public meeting will be conducted as a teleconference.

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/board_agenda_11_21_2025.pdf

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

###

Hockinson School District Board of Directors Regular Meeting

Date: 11/10/25

Time: 6:00pm

Location: Hockinson Community Center - 15916 NE 182nd Ave, Brush Prairie, WA 98606

GRESHAM, Ore.— The City of Gresham invites the community for a story time reading with Gresham police and firefighters. Enjoy refreshments, explore Fire Station 71, and learn about the ways the Fire and Police Levy are making a positive impact on emergency and public safety services in our community.

What: Gresham Fire Station Open House & Story Time

When: Saturday, November 15, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Where: Fire Station 71, City Hall, 1333 NW Eastman Pkwy, Gresham, OR, 97030

Each story time will feature a picture book for younger audiences, and there will be fun activities for older children. Attendees are also encouraged to check out public safety vehicles and equipment, as well as chat with police and firefighters about what it means to serve the Gresham community.

This open house opportunity is the second in a series of four engagements the City is planning to host at Gresham fire stations through spring 2026. Information on future engagements will be posted to greshamoregon.org/events as it becomes available.  

#     #     #

About Gresham:   

Gresham is a vibrant and growing city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation and opportunity. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, our community is built on a foundation of hard work, deep roots in agriculture, and a shared commitment to creating a thriving future. Discover more about what makes Gresham special by visiting GreshamOregon.gov.

Vancouver, Wash. – The City of Vancouver invites the community to support the eleventh annual Korey's Joy Drive with donations of toys and warm clothing for neighbors in need starting Wednesday, Nov. 12.

Korey’s Joy Drive honors the memory of Korey Cochran, a City employee who passed away from brain cancer in 2017. He received the rare cancer diagnosis just before the holiday season.

“Since establishing Korey’s Joy Drive, we’ve collected more than 16,000 items to support families in need during the holidays,” said Jen Thomas with the City’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department. “Thanks to the generosity of our community and local business partners, we’ve doubled the number of charities we can support.” From Nov. 12 to Dec. 10, City employees will collect gift cards and new, unwrapped toys and new youth, teen and adult winter coats, gloves, socks and hats. All donations will be delivered to seven local non-profits including: Children's Center and Open House Ministries, Sea Mar Parent-Child Assistance Program, Share of Vancouver, Randall Children's Hospital at Legacy Emanuel, YWCA Clark County and Fosterful.

Community members can contribute at one of these public drop off sites:

· Edward Jones - Greg Hiatt - 5512 N.E. 109th Court, Suite D

· Firstenburg Community Center - 700 N.E. 136th Ave.

· Kazoodles Toys & Gifts – 13503 S.E. Mill Plain Blvd.

· Latte Da Coffee House & Wine Bar - 205 E. 39th St.

· Marshall Community Center - 1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd.

· The Al Angelo Company - 400 E. Mill Plain Blvd., Suite 500

· Vancouver City Hall - 415 W. 6th St.

· Vancouver Fire Department Station 5 – 7110 N.E. 63rd St.

· Vancouver Operations Center front desk - 4711 E. Fourth Plain Blvd.

· Vancouver Police West Precinct - 2800 N.E. Stapleton Rd.

· Vancouver Police East Precinct - 520 S.E. 155th Ave.

· Vancouver Utilities front desk - 2323 General Anderson Rd.

· Water Resources Education Center - 4600 S.E. Columbia Way

· West Vancouver Dental – 117 E. 39th St.

Shop local while giving: Purchasing gifts from local retailers helps keep dollars in Vancouver’s economy, supporting local jobs and services. Community members are encouraged to buy toys for donation from local businesses like Kazoodles Toys & Gifts, 13503 S.E. Mill Plain Blvd. (or order online) and Lyon and Pearle, 607 Washington Street (or order online).

Contributions can also be made via an Amazon Wish List. Choose from a variety of pre-selected items or choose your own to be shipped directly to the Joy Drive.

Local businesses interested in hosting a collection site may contact Jen Thomas at 360-487-7019 or jen.thomas@cityofvancouver.us.

Learn more at www.cityofvancouver.us/koreysjoydrive.

###

HILLSBORO, Ore- On November 6, 2025, a Washington County jury found Desha Levann Madkins guilty of eight counts of mail theft or receipt of stolen mail and possession of a burglary tool or theft device. Judge Brandon Thompson sentenced the defendant to 45 months in prison. Deputy District Attorney Trevor Farrell prosecuted this case.
 

On October 2, 2019, deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop on the defendant after he was observed making an illegal turn while driving without his headlights activated. Deputies confirmed the defendant had a warrant for his arrest. Deputies located drugs in his pocket and multiple mail items, along with credit and debit cards and IDs belonging to multiple victims. Deputies also located a lockpick and a pry bar in his backpack. The defendant admitted to stealing mail in order to pay for his drug addiction.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the work of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office on this case.
 

The defendant will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to begin serving his sentence.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On November 6, 2025, a Washington County jury found Jerone Enrico Cuie guilty of possession of a weapon by an inmate, felon in possession of a firearm, and supplying contraband. Deputy District Attorney Alicia Gerten prosecuted this case before Judge Theodore Sims.

On August 30, 2025, Beaverton police initiated a traffic stop of the defendant after they observed a forged registration tag displayed in his vehicle’s window. Officers learned the defendant was driving with a suspended driver’s license and was also issued a detainer related to a felony probation violation. Officers conducted a search of his person and asked if they missed anything during the pat down, which he denied. While en route to the Washington County Jail, the defendant asked an officer if he would be subject to a strip search during the intake process.

During processing at the jail, deputies found a fully loaded handgun hidden in the defendant’s underwear. The defendant was already a convicted felon for unlawful use of a weapon with a firearm stemming from a Multnomah County attempted murder case and was barred from possessing any firearms.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the work of the Beaverton Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 13, 2025.

DALLAS (OR) - After a thorough review of the investigative materials provided by the Salem Police Department, the Polk County District Attorney’s Office has elected not to pursue criminal charges related to an incident that occurred on October 19, 2025 in the parking lot of the Roth’s Fresh Markets on Wallace Avenue in West Salem.

In reaching this decision, the District Attorney’s Office reviewed statements taken from both participants in the incident, numerous investigative reports, as well as scene video taken from multiple angles of the incident. The totality of that documentation reveals that Mr. Luis Velasquez was the aggressor in this verbal and physical incident. The evidence shows that after Mr. Velasquez verbally initiated the confrontation, he brandished a knife at the other subject and intentionally attempted to damage that person’s vehicle by puncturing the tires prior to that other person attempting to drive away.

Mr. Velasquez sustained serious, life-threatening injuries when he was struck by the vehicle driven by the other participant. However, the evidence supports the conclusion that the actions of the driver were in reaction to the aggressive and threatening behavior of Mr. Velasquez. Further, after leaving the parking lot, the driver of the vehicle reached out to public safety officials and shortly thereafter turned himself into the Salem Police Department. Once there, he cooperated with the investigation, including allowing detectives to examine the involved vehicle.

Under this set of circumstances, and based on the evidence as currently known, the State would not be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the conduct here constituted a criminal offense.

The investigation undertaken by the Salem Police Department into this matter was exhaustive and comprehensive. Dozens of hours were spent by detectives and officers in seeking answers to what had transpired. The District Attorney’s Office is deeply appreciative of their professionalism and commitment to our community.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On November 6, 2025, a Washington County jury found Norberto Nestor Muniz Jr. guilty of murder and first-degree abuse of a corpse. Senior Deputy District Attorney Chris Lewman and Deputy District Attorney Bryce Bissinger prosecuted this case before Judge Andrew Erwin.

The defendant was originally convicted of these crimes in 2022. However, the Oregon Court of Appeals overturned the conviction and ordered a retrial.

On November 17, 2018, Beaverton police were called to a home off of SW Allen Boulevard on a report of a suspicious circumstance. Responding officers searched the house and found the body of Amy Low. Ms. Low's body was badly burned, and she was not positively identified until January of 2019.

Ms. Low lived at the residence with the defendant and another man. Detectives identified the defendant as a suspect in the crime. Investigators secured a search warrant and found several items of interest in the home, including items that contained DNA evidence. They determined Ms. Low was beaten to death and subsequently burned in a backyard burn pile.

The defendant was arrested with the assistance of Portland police on May 8, 2019, and was held until trial. The defendant had recently been released from prison after serving a Measure 11 sentence for first-degree robbery.

This office wishes to acknowledge the work of the Beaverton Police Department, including Detectives Chad Opitz and Maggie Brown. This office also wishes to thank the Oregon State Police Forensic Unit for their crime scene investigation and subsequent testing and the Portland Police Bureau for their assistance in apprehending the defendant.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 10, 2025.

Lake County, Ore. (Nov. 7, 2025)- On Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 6:32 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 31, near milepost 71, in Lake County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Honda Accord, operated by Sydney-Marie Kathrine Dobson (33) of Keizer, failed to negotiate a curve, left the roadway, and rolled. The operator was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle during the roll.

The operator of the Honda (Dobson) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by ODOT.

# # #

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

November 7, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Bully Creek Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Bully Creek Reservoir in Malheur County.

OHA issued the advisory July 18.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Bully Creek Reservoir are safe for human health and pet health.

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

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

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water.

If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind.

There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

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

###

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting scheduled for November 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

The next Applicant Review Committee meeting is scheduled for December 17, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

November 7, 2025 

Media Contact: Kim Lippert, erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831 

New Clackamas County Stabilization Center expands access to behavioral health crisis care 

OREGON CITY, Ore.- Clackamas County has opened a new stabilization center in Milwaukie, marking a major milestone in Oregon’s efforts to transform the state’s behavioral health system. For the first time, anyone in the Clackamas community experiencing a behavioral health crisis can walk in any time, day or night, and receive immediate care without having to go to an emergency room or jail.

The crisis center, located at 9200 SE McBrod Ave., in Milwaukie, will expand access to crisis and recovery services. The center will help people experiencing panic attacks, hallucinations or other behavioral health conditions, and will also connect individuals experiencing homelessness to transitional housing in the community.

OHA Deputy Director of Behavioral Health Christa Jones speaks at the ceremony alongside Gov. Kotek and Clackamas County officials, highlighting Oregon’s ongoing commitment to expanding behavioral health care access. The Clackamas County Stabilization Center will provide 24/7 behavioral health services for people in crisis.

“Today, we are celebrating meaningful access to services that are too often out of reach,” Governor Tina Kotek said during the ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday.

“Of course, there is still a long way to go and we have to keep pushing to get Oregonians the treatment they need and deserve. I’ve made it a priority in my administration to work towards an Oregon where every person can access the care they need, when they need it, and how they need it.” 

Clackamas County officials and OHA Deputy Director of Behavioral Health Christa Jones joined Governor Kotek at the ceremony.

“It’s inspiring to see a place where people in crisis can feel safer and supported,” Jones said. “The thoughtful design, with calming spaces and views of the creek, reflects a deep respect for the dignity and comfort of those receiving care.” 

The new center is funded through House Bill 5204, passed in 2024 to expand access to behavioral health crisis care through investments in infrastructure. The Clackamas project received $4 million through the Oregon Department of Administrative Services.

The Clackamas County Stabilization Center will provide care to adults experiencing a behavioral health crisis and co-occurring disorders. Among the center’s services are crisis assessment, short-term housing, peer support, and connections to long-term treatment, recovery resources, and stable housing for individuals in behavioral health crises.

OHA is committed to transforming the state’s behavioral health system, expanding access to services and support, and investing in community-based services that provide compassionate and culturally responsive care.

The Clackamas Stabilization Center will serve as an important role by helping residents access services and support in their community. 

More information about the new Clackamas County Stabilization Center is available at: www.clackamas.us/h3s/stabilization-center. 

###

Gresham, Ore.— Investigators with the East County Vehicular Crimes Team have arrested 22-year-old Eyasu Bedasso in relation to a fatal June traffic crash.

On June 16th, officers responded to a serious traffic crash on SW Towle Ave in Gresham. A small SUV driven by Bedasso collided with another vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle, 69-year-old Theresa Heick, died at the scene. Theresa’s husband and passenger, 79-year-old Robert Heick, was transported to the hospital with critical injuries. Robert died of his injuries several days later.

Members of the East County Vehicular Crimes Team investigated the crash. The VCT is made up of specially trained officers from the Gresham Police Department and Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, along with dedicated prosecutors from the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.

Investigators reviewed physical evidence at the scene, surveillance video, and data captured by the involved vehicle’s onboard computers. An unmanned aircraft system (drone) was also used to analyze and document the crash scene. They determined Bedasso’s vehicle was travelling more than 80mph in the posted 35mph zone. His speed was the major cause of the crash. Investigators do not believe impairment was a factor in the collision.

Bedasso was indicted by a Grand Jury on October 31st and arrested by investigators on November 5th. He was booked into Multnomah County Jail to face two counts of Manslaughter in the Second Degree, two counts of Criminally Negligent Homicide, and Reckless Driving. This crash is a tragic reminder of the danger and potential consequences when motorists disregard posted speed limits.

November 7, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Powder Arm of Brownlee Reservoir

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Powder Arm of Brownlee Reservoir in Baker County. There is still an advisory for the Snake River portion of Brownlee Reservoir.

OHA issued the advisory Oct 9.

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

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

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

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water.

If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

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

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

###

SALEM, Ore. — The Board of Forestry Governance Committee will meet virtually on Monday, Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• New board member orientation packet 
• Board agenda development procedures   
• Identify work topics for our next meeting, and highlight any work to be completed prior to next meeting

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-302-6344 or by email at oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov.

This standing board committee recommends policies (or policy changes) to the board pertaining to governance issues and processes including the oversight and management of the BPM, orientation and training of new board members, the evaluation and improvement of the board, the repository of board materials, and oversight of the written conflict of interest policies, procedures, and review of annual or special statements of board members. Read more information about the committee.

Salem temporarily suspends downtown paid on-street parking Saturday, Nov. 29

• Free on-street parking downtown from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Sat., Nov. 29

Salem, Ore. – In celebration of Small Business Day and the kickoff of the 2025 holiday shopping season, the City of Salem will temporarily suspend paid on-street parking in the Downtown Parking District on Saturday, November 29, 2025. This suspension will be in effect from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., supporting local businesses and encouraging community engagement during this special event.

"Small businesses are the heart of Salem’s economy and a big part of what makes our downtown unique and special. We are excited to celebrate our local businesses on November 29 and kick off the holiday season by encouraging our community to shop locally, explore downtown and support the businesses that make Salem thrive,” said Krishna Namburi, Salem City Manager.

Downtown Salem is a vibrant destination filled with unique shops, entertainment venues and scenic walking and biking trails. Whether you're exploring on foot or by bike, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For more information about things to do in Salem, go to www.cityofsalem.net/community/things-to-do.

Information about parking in Salem is available at www.cityofsalem.net/parking.

# # #

Vancouver, Wash. – The next Clark County Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for 9:30 am Tuesday, Nov.18, 2025, in the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., Room 243.

Pursuant to RCW 42.30.030(2), which encourages public agencies to provide for public access to meetings, this meeting can also be viewed via Teams or joined telephonically.

• Dial-in number: 1-213-262-7043
• Phone ID: 671 772 263#
• Meeting ID: 227 411 207 256
• Passcode: Vm9Un9VY
• Join online here.

See the agenda for the meeting on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/treasurer/investment-reports-meetings.

Clark Eligible to Compete for the 2027 $1 million Aspen Prize

Washington D.C.–The Aspen Institute recently named Clark College as one of the 200 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges. The 200 colleges were selected based on their student outcomes data, including retention, completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment rates. 

“Clark College is honored to be recognized among the top community colleges in the country by the Aspen Institute. This recognition affirms our ongoing commitment to equitable student success and the transformative power of education. At Clark, student success means more than earning a degree—it’s about creating pathways to opportunity for every learner,” said Clark College President Dr. Karin Edwards. “This recognition from the Aspen Institute reflects the dedication of our staff and faculty and their ongoing work to close equity gaps, uplift our students, and strengthen our community through education.”

In 2021-22, Dr. Edwards was a fellow in the Aspen Community College Excellence Program for new presidents.

Together, the 200 colleges—six of them in Washington state—represent the breadth and diversity of the community college sector. They are located in urban, rural, and suburban areas across the country and serve anywhere from a few hundred students to tens of thousands. Some of these colleges focus primarily on workforce programs, while others focus on transfer and bachelor’s attainment or a combination of the two. 

“The Aspen Prize rewards colleges that achieve the kind of outcomes that actually matter to students—completing college degree programs that, in turn, lead to lifelong success,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. “Aspen Prize winners offer a powerful message: Community colleges can deliver the kind of life-changing education that makes the American Dream real.” 

Community colleges educate nearly six million students. Yet student outcomes fall short in graduation and post-graduation success. The Aspen Prize process identifies and celebrates community colleges that demonstrate that achieving stronger outcomes is possible, providing a roadmap of effective practices and strategies for other colleges to follow.  

As a next step, Clark College, among the 200 eligible colleges, has been invited to submit an application and participate in a rigorous review process culminating in the naming of the Aspen Prize winner in spring 2027. Over the coming 20 months, the colleges that apply for the Aspen Prize will be assessed based on: (1) student outcomes data, ranging from student transfer and completion rates to employment and wages after graduation and (2) whether they have engaged in scaled practices that led to high and improving student outcomes.  

“Among these 200 colleges are some really special places that deliver strong and improving outcomes for students across the board,” Wyner said. “Our job over the coming 20 months is to gather a lot more data and work with a deep bench of field experts to assess which of these 200 stand out so we can not only honor them with a monetary award, but drive attention to the most effective field practices that other colleges can replicate.” 

Eligibility for the Aspen Prize is based on publicly available data demonstrating strong and improving student outcomes in first-to-second year retention, credentials awarded, and completion and transfer rates. The Aspen Prize is generously funded by Ascendium Education Philanthropy and the Joyce Foundation.

To identify the 200, Aspen updated its data model—including new measures for part-time degree completion, transfer rates, and bachelor’s attainment—adding data from the National Student Clearinghouse to existing federal data sets. 

Started in 2010, this is the ninth cycle of the Aspen Prize. Nationwide, about 20% of community colleges—200 of just under 1,000 public two-year colleges—were invited to apply this cycle, an increase from the 150 institutions in previous years. The full list can be accessed on the Aspen Prize homepage. 

About the Aspen Institute

The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program aims to strengthen higher education leadership and practice to improve student outcomes—with the ultimate goal of advancing economic mobility and developing talent for the good of each individual and society as a whole. 

The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization whose purpose is to ignite human potential to build understanding and create new possibilities for a better world. Founded in 1949, the Institute drives change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve society’s greatest challenges. It is headquartered in Washington, D.C. and has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, as well as an international network of partners. For more information, visit www.aspeninstitute.org 

About Clark College  

Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. Clark Collegeprovides 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 over 9,500 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. For more information, visit clark.edu.

####

Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from November 2 to November 5, 2025, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the 50 liters collected on November 4 and November 5. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on November 2 or November 3. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on October 26, 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

About the Public Works Service Area

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

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

503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation 

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

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

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

November 7, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Unity Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Unity Reservoir in Baker County.

OHA issued the advisory Sept 26.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Unity Reservoir are safe for human health and pet health.

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

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

When recreating, people – especially small children, and pets – should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue green or If thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water.

If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

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

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

###

SALEM, Oregon— The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis (OEA) has confirmed a more than $1.41 billion revenue surplus in the 2023-2025 biennium, triggering a tax surplus credit, or “kicker,” for the 2025 tax year.

The surplus will be returned to taxpayers through a credit on their 2025 state personal income tax returns filed in 2026. It is not sent to taxpayers in a check. The kicker credit will either increase a taxpayer's Oregon state income tax refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe.

Only taxpayers who filed a tax year 2024 return and also file a tax year 2025 return can receive a kicker. The credit is a percentage of Oregon personal income tax liability for the 2024 tax year. Taxpayers who have not yet filed a 2024 tax return, should file now. That will allow them to claim their kicker credit when they file their 2025 tax return next year.

To calculate the amount of their credit, taxpayers can multiply their 2024 personal income tax liability before any credits—line 24 on the 2024 Form OR-40 filed earlier this year—by 9.863 percent. This percentage is determined and certified by OEA. Taxpayers who claimed a credit for tax paid to another state would need to subtract the credit amount from their liability before calculating the credit.

Personal income taxpayers can also determine the amount of their kicker using a “What’s My Kicker? calculator available on Revenue Online. To use the calculator, taxpayers will need to enter their name, Social Security Number, and filing status for 2024 and 2025.

Taxpayers who don't have a filing obligation for 2025, still must file a 2025 tax return to claim their credit.

The 2025 Oregon personal income tax return instructions will include detailed information on how to claim the credit. Full-year Oregon residents will use Form OR-40. Part-year residents will use Form OR-40-P. Non-residents will use Form OR-40-N. Composite and fiduciary-income tax return filers are also eligible.

Taxpayers should keep in mind that the state may use all or part of their kicker to pay any state debt they owe. These debts can include taxes due for other years, child support, court fines, or school loans.

Taxpayers can donate their kicker to the Oregon State School Fund for K-12 public education, but they must donate the entire amount. The donation is permanent and cannot be taken back.

Taxpayers also have the option of donating part or all their refund to any or all the 29 charities approved by the Charitable Checkoff Commission. Taxpayers use Form OR-DONATE to designate their donation to charity.

For more information, go to the Oregon surplus “kicker” credit page of the Department of Revenue website.

Taxpayers that haven’t filed their 2024 Oregon tax return can still file electronically using tax preparation software or Direct File Oregon. Free tax preparation services are available for both federal and Oregon tax returns. Some companies offer free software use and e-filing for eligible taxpayers. Links to the software and free offers can be found on the Department of Revenue website. Information about free tax preparation services is also available on the website.

The Department of Revenue plans to announce the date taxpayers can start filing 2025 Oregon tax returns in January. The department will continue to offer Direct File Oregon as an option for taxpayers to electronically file their 2025 returns for free. The fastest way for taxpayers to claim and receive their kicker will be to file electronically and use direct deposit to receive their refund.

Visit www.oregon.gov/dor to get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make tax payments; call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish); 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon; or email questions.dor@oregon.gov.

Fact Sheet: Oregon Revenue Surplus "Kicker" Credit 

How did Oregon get the kicker?

The 1979 Oregon Legislative Assembly passed the "Two percent kicker" law as a way to control state spending. The law requires the state to compare the revenue forecast for each two-year biennium to the amount actually received and return any surplus to taxpayers.

Voters approved a ballot measure adding the kicker to the Oregon Constitution in 2000 and provided taxpayers with the option to donate their kicker to the State School Fund to help fund K-12 schools in Oregon.

When do we have a kicker?

After the biennium ends, if actual revenue collected exceeds the forecast amount by more than 2 percent, the revenue surplus is refunded to taxpayers as a tax credit claimed on their personal income tax returns in the even-numbered year of the next biennium.

On November 1, 2025 the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis (OEA) certified that revenue collected for 2023-2025 biennium (July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2025) had exceeded the OEA forecast by $1.41 billion, the fourth largest surplus revenue amount in state history.

OEA further certified that Oregon taxpayers can receive a kicker credit on their tax year 2025 returns filed in 2026 equal to 9.863 percent of their Oregon personal income tax liability for tax year 2024.

The kicker is returned to taxpayers as a tax credit.

The kicker is returned to taxpayers as a refundable tax credit, either reducing the amount of tax they owe or increasing their refund.

While there was a time when the kicker was returned to taxpayers in the form of a check, the 2011 Legislature changed the method of payment back to a tax credit claimed on returns filed in the even-numbered year of the biennium.

How much will my kicker be?

Taxpayers can use the Department of Revenue’s “What’s My Kicker?” calculator to determine the amount of their kicker.

Taxpayers can claim a kicker credit equal to 9.863 percent of their Oregon personal income tax liability for tax year 2024. A taxpayer with a $5,000 Oregon personal income tax liability for tax year 2024 would be able to claim a kicker credit on their tax year 2025 return of $493 ($5,000 x 0.09863). Only Oregon personal income tax liability for tax year 2024 will count toward the kicker. Taxes paid in previous years and federal income taxes are not part of the kicker calculation.

Where can I find more information about the kicker?

You can find more information about the kicker and a link to the “What’s My Kicker?” calculator on the Oregon Department of Revenue website, including a list of frequently asked questions, and historic data listing the years of past kickers and their amounts.