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Pacific Power Celebrates National Drive Electric Week 

La Pine, Ore. — This summer, the Darlene 3 and Jackpine wildfires near La Pine, Oregon, shined a spotlight on the negative effects of long-term overstays and illegal dumping on public lands. In response, local community members approached the Bureau of Land Management with a request: could they organize a group clean-up?

The newly formed Newberry Regional Partnership gathered nearly 60 volunteers and spent a Saturday in August removing hundreds of pounds of garbage from the BLM’s Jackpine Camp, located southwest of La Pine.

The group said they saw how frustrated people were with trash on the lands in their community, and they wanted to offer a way for residents to be part of a solution.

For the BLM, the project was an easy sell—with a big caveat.

The area around Jackpine Camp was well-known as a dumping area, RV chop shop, and place of long-term overstays. The field office was already in the process of putting a contract out to bid on the same area, and they had identified a portion of the area as potentially containing human waste and asbestos.

If the volunteers were willing to stick to the open meadow, have hazmat-trained personnel on site, and provide hand-washing stations, the BLM would be a willing partner.

With that support, the Newberry Regional Partnership coordinated the cleanup with the BLM, the Public Land Stewards, the City of La Pine, Deschutes County, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, and the La Pine Rural Fire Protection District. Republic Services, a local trash and recycling company, offered staff and dumpsters for the event, and the La Pine Ace Hardware provided supplies.

"It was a perfect turn of events to partner on this," said Lisa Clark, BLM Deschutes Field Manager. “We were able to make the day more manageable for the fantastic group of volunteers and focus the upcoming contract on the hazardous materials and vehicles.”

In just a few hours, nearly 60 volunteers filled two 30-yard dumpsters, three 20-yard dumpsters, and numerous privately owned trailers with debris. Republic Services provided individual dumpsters for trash, metal, and tires, making disposal easier. The team worked tirelessly to remove hundreds of pounds of garbage, ranging from household trash to clothes to washing machines.

Although a team of yellow jackets decided to emerge and join the event, the watchful members of Public Land Stewards were able to identify the nest location and flag off areas of concern.

The event was topped off with a communal lunch and a sense of accomplishment. Many volunteers expressed their desire to participate in future cleanup initiatives.

“We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in this cleanup,” said Kathy DeBone, Community Coordinator at the Newberry Regional Partnership. “The abandoned Jackpine Camp cleanup serves as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the importance of environmental stewardship.”

To schedule a media interview on this story, please reach out to Lisa Clark at 541-280-9560 or lmclark@blm.gov.

-BLM-

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

Embargoed until Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 2:15 p.m.

The Oregon Department of Education (ODE), in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, will announce Kayla Davidson as one of Oregon’s 18 2024-25 Regional Teachers of the Year and one of four state finalists! Davidson teaches third grade at Fern Hill Elementary School in Forest Grove.

Media members are invited to the surprise announcement at Fern Hill Elementary School on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 2:15 p.m., when Davidson will be honored at an all-school assembly.

Every day in Oregon classrooms, teachers offer their innovation, energy and content mastery in support of students across the state. The Oregon Teacher of the Year Program recognizes and honors teacher excellence, with the state Teacher of the Year serving as the face and voice of exemplary educators across Oregon. Candidates for Oregon Teacher of the Year are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled licensed public school educators in grades pre-K-12.

As stated by one colleague in her nomination, “Her students come to her with diverse needs and Kayla meets all of them where they are, supports and pushes them to be the best they can be... We can see from the data that her students feel welcomed, supported, and excited to come to school and learn.” 

Regional Teachers of the Year are nominated by students, colleagues, administrators, friends or family members. Regional winners were identified through a local nomination, application and selection process facilitated by the 19 Education Service Districts around the state. Applicants submitted testimonials and letters of support and were assessed by a diverse panel of regional representatives on the attributes of leadership, instructional expertise, commitment to equity, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, vision and professional development.

“Now more than ever, we need powerful educators like these,” said Director of the Oregon Department of Education Dr. Charlene Williams. “Each Regional Teacher of the Year has earned this recognition because they champion every student, uplifting and empowering them to achieve, to create, and to feel a sense of belonging not only in the classroom, but in the wider world, as well. Students and families in Oregon are fortunate to have teachers like these whose inspiring contributions create lasting impacts that ripple out into their communities and beyond.” 

Each Regional Teacher of the Year wins a $1,000 cash prize and is in the running for Oregon’s 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year – to be announced in October. 

Since 1995, when the Oregon Lottery began allocating revenue to public education, more than $10 billion has been transferred to school districts across the state. This past year, more than $3.2 million dollars of Oregon Lottery funding went to the Forest Grove School District, and around $47 million went to Washington County.

“These exceptional teachers inspire and encourage students every day in classrooms across Oregon,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are proud to honor their contributions and vital role in making our communities stronger.”

On Friday, September 20, 2024, once all 18 Regional Teachers of the Year are announced, the full list of statewide winners will be available on the Oregon Teacher of the Year website. Do you know an outstanding teacher? Please nominate them as the 2025-26 Oregon Teacher of the Year by visiting oregonteacheroftheyear.org.

Shortly following the event, photos from the regional surprise announcement for Davidson will be available HERE. 

Thanks to the ODE’s partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year will receive a $10,000 cash prize (with an additional $5,000 going to their school) and serves as a spokesperson and representative for all Oregon teachers.

Salem, Oregon – More than 50 Oregonians have joined forces to launch the Oregon Cultural Trust’s new Cultural Ambassador Network, inspired to promote cultural giving in Oregon. Inaugural members include Norm Smith, president emeritus of The Ford Family Foundation, Oregon Poet Laureate Emerita Paulann Petersen and former state representative Margaret Doherty, as well as many cultural nonprofit executives and supporters in communities ranging from Astoria, Portland and Jacksonville to Prineville and Wallowa.

The Cultural Ambassador Network empowers dedicated and passionate individuals across Oregon to promote the work of arts, heritage and humanities nonprofits while increasing statewide funding through Oregon’s unique Cultural Tax Credit.

“We know the most effective way to inspire people to donate to cultural organizations and use Oregon’s Cultural Tax Credit – the source of our grant funds for more than 1,650 cultural nonprofits statewide – is word of mouth,” said Cultural Trust Executive Director Brian Rogers. “Hearing from someone you trust about how it works, and how easy it is to do, empowers cultural supporters to make their matching contribution.”

Cultural Ambassadors become conversant in how the Cultural Trust and the Cultural Tax Credit work – with training and support – and share the information in ways that are convenient and comfortable for them. 

Examples of Cultural Ambassador activities include:

• Committing to one-on-one conversations with 10 cultural donors about the tax credit; 
• Encouraging local cultural nonprofits to promote the Cultural Tax Credit to their donors;
• Attending local cultural events to share information about the Cultural Tax Credit;
• Presenting a Trust-provided PowerPoint at cultural nonprofit board meetings or events;
• Talking with tax preparers or CPAs about encouraging clients to use the Cultural Tax Credit;
• Presenting to local service organizations about the Cultural Trust and the tax credit;
• Hosting a social gathering at which Cultural Trust information is shared;
• Connecting with local media to share stories of Cultural Trust funding impact; 
• Connecting the Cultural Trust team to other potential Ambassadors/local thought leaders; and
• Working creatively with the Trust team on unique opportunities for promotion.

All Cultural Ambassadors are recognized on the Cultural Trust website and receive an official Cultural Trust Ambassador nametag plus information cards and a special gift – a limited-edition Celebrate Oregon! mug.

Those interested in joining the Cultural Ambassador Network should contact Communications Manager Carrie Kikel at rie.kikel@biz.oregon.gov">carrie.kikel@biz.oregon.gov.

# # #

The Oregon Cultural Trust was established by the Oregon Legislature in 2001 as a unique means to reward Oregonians who invest in culture. Oregonians who donate to a cultural nonprofit and then make a matching gift to the Cultural Trust receive a 100% state tax credit for their gift to the Trust. The Cultural Trust’s  three grant programs fund  five Statewide Partners, 45 County and Tribal Coalitions and qualified cultural nonprofits through competitive Cultural Development Grants.

Embargoed until Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 3 p.m.

The Oregon Department of Education (ODE), in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, will announce Bryan Butcher Jr. as one of Oregon’s 18 2024-25 Regional Teachers of the Year and one of four state finalists! Butcher teaches math at Beaumont Middle School in Portland.

Media members are invited to the surprise announcement at Beaumont Middle School on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 3 p.m., when Butcher will be honored at an all-school assembly.

Every day in Oregon classrooms, teachers offer their innovation, energy and content mastery in support of students across the state. The Oregon Teacher of the Year Program recognizes and honors teacher excellence, with the state Teacher of the Year serving as the face and voice of exemplary educators across Oregon. Candidates for Oregon Teacher of the Year are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled licensed public school educators in grades pre-K-12.

As stated by a parent in his nomination, “He develops strong relationships with each of his many students and through trust and confidence and high expectations, gets success. He is kind, models respect, and warmly demands engagement. He inspired my child to return to their love of math after the pandemic.”

Regional Teachers of the Year are nominated by students, colleagues, administrators, friends or family members. Regional winners were identified through a local nomination, application and selection process facilitated by the 19 Education Service Districts around the state. Applicants submitted testimonials and letters of support and were assessed by a diverse panel of regional representatives on the attributes of leadership, instructional expertise, commitment to equity, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, vision and professional development.

“Now more than ever, we need powerful educators like these,” said Director of the Oregon Department of Education Dr. Charlene Williams. “Each Regional Teacher of the Year has earned this recognition because they champion every student, uplifting and empowering them to achieve, to create, and to feel a sense of belonging not only in the classroom, but in the wider world, as well. Students and families in Oregon are fortunate to have teachers like these whose inspiring contributions create lasting impacts that ripple out into their communities and beyond.”

Each Regional Teacher of the Year wins a $1,000 cash prize and is in the running for Oregon’s 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year – to be announced in October. 

Since 1995, when the Oregon Lottery began allocating revenue to public education, more than $10 billion has been transferred to school districts across the state. This past year, more than $24 million dollars of Oregon Lottery funding went to the Portland Public School District, and more than $48 million went to Multnomah County.

“These exceptional teachers inspire and encourage students every day in classrooms across Oregon,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are proud to honor their contributions and vital role in making our communities stronger.”

On Friday, September 20, 2024, once all 18 Regional Teachers of the Year are announced, the full list of statewide winners will be available on the Oregon Teacher of the Year website. Do you know an outstanding teacher? Please nominate them as the 2025-26 Oregon Teacher of the Year by visiting oregonteacheroftheyear.org.

Shortly following the event, photos from the regional surprise announcement for Butcher will
be available HERE.

Thanks to ODE’s partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year will receive a $10,000 cash prize (with an additional $5,000 going to their school) and serves as a spokesperson and representative for all Oregon teachers.

(Astoria, OR) — Clatsop County was notified by the Secretary of State of potential non-U.S. citizens being registered to vote in Clatsop County due to an error from the Oregon department of motor vehicles. 

The information received identified two non-U.S. citizens in Clatsop County who have never voted. The directed steps have been followed and no ballots will be issued to these individuals. 

If you have evidence that a person may be unlawfully registered to vote, please send your evidence and the information to Clatsop County Clerk at clerk@clatsopcounty.gov. 

If you have questions, please contact our office at 503-325-8511.

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Embargoed until Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 8:15 a.m.

The Oregon Department of Education (ODE), in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, will announce Tori Corak as one of Oregon’s 18 2024-25 Regional Teachers of the Year! Corak teaches second grade at Enterprise Elementary School.

Media members are invited to the surprise announcement at Enterprise Elementary School on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 8:15 a.m., when Corak will be honored at an all-school assembly.

Every day in Oregon classrooms, teachers offer their innovation, energy and content mastery in support of students across the state. The Oregon Teacher of the Year Program recognizes and honors teacher excellence, with the state Teacher of the Year serving as the face and voice of exemplary educators across Oregon. Candidates for Oregon Teacher of the Year are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled licensed public school educators in grades preK-12.

“To say, ‘She goes above and beyond,’ sounds like a cliché and would be an understatement. She is the physical manifestation of the love, care, passion, focus, and drive that we all work towards representing ourselves. She is an example for all and a light in the storm,” a colleague shared in her nomination.

Regional Teachers of the Year are nominated by students, colleagues, administrators, friends or family members. Regional winners were identified through a local nomination, application and selection process facilitated by the 19 Education Service Districts around the state. Applicants submitted testimonials and letters of support and were assessed by a diverse panel of regional representatives on the attributes of leadership, instructional expertise, commitment to equity, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, vision and professional development.

“Now more than ever, we need powerful educators like these,” said Director of the Oregon Department of Education Dr. Charlene Williams. “Each Regional Teacher of the Year has earned this recognition because they champion every student, uplifting and empowering them to achieve, to create, and to feel a sense of belonging not only in the classroom, but in the wider world, as well. Students and families in Oregon are fortunate to have teachers like these whose inspiring contributions create lasting impacts that ripple out into their communities and beyond.”

Each Regional Teacher of the Year wins a $1,000 cash prize and is in the running for Oregon’s 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year – to be announced in October.

Since 1995, when the Oregon Lottery began allocating revenue to public education, more than $10 billion has been transferred to school districts across the state. This past year, more than $237,000 dollars of Oregon Lottery funding went to the Wallowa School District, and more than $533,000 went to Wallowa County.

“These exceptional teachers inspire and encourage students every day in classrooms across Oregon,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are proud to honor their contributions and vital role in making our communities stronger.”

On Friday, September 20, 2024, once all 18 Regional Teachers of the Year are announced, the full list of statewide winners will be available on the Oregon Teacher of the Year website. Do you know an outstanding teacher? Please nominate them as the 2025-26 Oregon Teacher of the Year by visiting oregonteacheroftheyear.org.

Shortly following the event, photos from the regional surprise announcement for Corak will be available HERE.

Thanks to the Oregon Department of Education’s partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year will receive a $10,000 cash prize (with an additional $5,000 going to their school) and serves as a spokesperson and representative for all Oregon teachers.

Vancouver, Wash. – Interim Fire Marshal Donna Goddard is lifting the countywide burn ban on outdoor, recreational fires in unincorporated Clark County effective at 12:01 am Tuesday, Sept. 17.  

“With the recent low temperatures, increased humidity and precipitation, and similar conditions predicted for the extended forecast, I am lifting only the recreational fire burn ban,” said Goddard. “The burn ban for other outdoor burning will remain in effect through Sept. 30.”  

To have predictable and consistent burn bans, Clark County, along with other neighboring counties have a policy to ban outdoor burning from July 15 through Sept. 30 each year. Designating this period was based on years of information about fuel conditions. The annual burn ban allows residents to plan to burn during safer times of the year.  

Recreational campfires in local county parks and commercial campgrounds are allowed only in approved fire pits. On private land, recreational fires are permitted as follows: 

• Recreational fires must be in a metal-, stone- or masonry-lined fire pit such as those in improved campgrounds or available at home and garden stores.
• Size may not exceed 3 feet in diameter by 2 feet in height.
• Fires must be at least 25 feet from a structure or other combustible material and have at least 20 feet of clearance from overhead fuels such as tree limbs, patio covers or carports.
• Fires must be attended at all times by a responsible person at least 16 years old who has the ability and tools to extinguish the fire. Tools include a shovel and either five gallons of water or a connected and charged water hose.
• Portable outdoor fireplaces, also known as patio fireplaces, designed to burn solid wood should not be operated within 15 feet of a structure or combustible material and must always be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Completely extinguish recreational fires by covering them with water or moist soil and stirring with a shovel until all parts are cool to the touch.
• Self-contained camp stoves are a safe and easy alternative to campfires.

Si necesita ayuda para comprender esta información, por favor llame (503) 588-6207 x 1 Irma Dowd.

Salem, Ore. — La ciudad de Salem está aceptando propuestas de subvención de organizaciones que quieren brindar eventos históricos, culturales, y turísticos-eventos relacionados en Salem.

Los premios de becas de hasta $2,000 están disponibles para eventos pequeños y hasta $10,000 para grandes eventos organizados por organizaciones sin fines de lucro 501(c) que figuran en el Servicio de Impuestos Internos. Todos los eventos deben tener lugar dentro de los límites de la ciudad de Salem, estar abiertos al público y ocurrir entre el 1 de julio de 2025 y el 30 de junio de 2026.

Las subvenciones están financiadas por el Impuesto de Ocupación Transitoria, también conocido como impuesto hotelero. Las subvenciones proporcionan apoyo de comercialización y promoción para diversas instalaciones y eventos históricos y culturales en Salem.

La asistencia ase una de las reuniones previas a la solicitud se es un requisito para solicitar:

Martes, 8 de octubre, 2024, 6-8 p.m.
A través de la reunión por Zoom, las organizaciones deben enviar una solicitud por correo electrónico para el enlace a cneider@cityofsalem.net o kskelly@cityofsalem.net.

Jueves, 10 de octubre, 2024, 2–4 p.m.
A través de la reunión por Zoom, las organizaciones deben enviar una solicitud por correo electrónico para el enlace a cneider@cityofsalem.net  o  kskelly@cityofsalem.net.

Las solicitudes estarán disponibles a partir del 10 de octubre, 2024 tanto en línea en Grants for Promotion of Culture and Tourism | Salem, Oregon (cityofsalem.net) o poniéndose en contacto con la Ciudad de Salem al (503) 540-2361. Las solicitudes vencen el 18 de noviembre, 2024.

Para obtener más información sobre las subvenciones de Impuesto de Ocupación Transitorio, póngase en contacto con la Ciudad de Salem al (503)-540-2361.

Attendance at one of two pre-application meetings is required to apply.

Salem, Ore. — The City of Salem is accepting grant proposals from organizations that want to host historic, cultural, and tourism-related events in Salem. 

Grant awards of up to $10,000 are available for large events hosted by nonprofit 501(c) organizations listed with the Internal Revenue Service. Smaller events hosted by non-501(c) organization are eligible for up to $2,000 grants. All events must take place within Salem city limits, be open to the public, and occur between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. 

The grants are funded by the Transient Occupancy Tax, also known as a hotel tax. They provide marketing and promotion support for various historic and cultural facilities and events in Salem. 

Attendance at one of these pre-application meetings is a requirement to apply:

Tuesday, October 8, 2024, 6-8 p.m.

Via Zoom Meeting, organizations must submit email request for the link to cneider@cityofsalem.net or kskelly@cityofsalem.net.

Thursday, October 10, 2024, 2–4 p.m.

Via Zoom Meeting, organizations must submit email request for the link to cneider@cityofsalem.net or kskelly@cityofsalem.net.

Applications will be available beginning October 10, 2024 online at Grants for Promotion of Culture and Tourism | Salem, Oregon (cityofsalem.net). Applications will be due November 18, 2024.

For more information about Transient Occupancy Tax grants, please contact the City of Salem at (503)-540-2361. Si necesita ayuda para comprender esta información, por favor llame (503) 588-6207 x 1 Irma Dowd.

Note: Jon Down's university was listed incorrectly in the previous version of this news release. It has been corrected to University of Portland

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) will be hosting an Innovation Hub on Oct. 28 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland. This year’s theme is “Can innovative technologies make green finance better?”

The event will be hosted by Nicole Ferroux, a senior policy advisor at DFR and Innovation Hub liaison, and will include two panel discussions: Artificial Intelligence and Green Finance, and Blockchain and Green Finance. After the two panel discussions, DFR Administrator TK Keen will host a fireside chat with Washington State Department of Financial Institutions Director Charlie Clark. Their discussion will center on regulating the use of innovative technologies in green finance.

“We are always looking for ways to encourage innovation in Oregon, particularly green finance innovations that help us combat climate change,” Keen said. “Our Innovation Hub has allowed us to keep numerous conversations with stakeholders on green finance and green innovations going, and the OMSI event is another avenue for engagement on this important topic.”

The first panel includes Jon Down, professor at the University of Portland and founder of Gen AI Corp.; Josh Cole, business operations lead at Modernist Financial; and Kirsten Anderson, deputy administrator at the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation.

The second panel includes Alex Murray, assistant professor of management and director of the Intelligent Futures Lab at the University of Oregon; Mike Zajko, co-founder of Lattice Capital; and Brooke Pollack, founder and managing partner at Hutt Capital.

What does this year’s theme, “Can innovative technologies make green finance better?” really mean?

“Green finance, which includes any financial product or service created to encourage the development of a more sustainable economy, has come under some deserved scrutiny in recent years,” Ferroux said. “Greenwashing scandals, questions regarding the longevity of the financial outcomes associated with these products, and a variety of regulatory issues have raised the question of whether green finance will continue to grow or will shrink away as a fad. This year’s event explores whether innovative technologies – namely artificial intelligence and blockchain technology – can help industry and regulators overcome these challenges to move this sector forward.”

You can register for the event online. The event is free and refreshments available. The event is limited to the first 150 registrants. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. on Oct. 28.

For more information about the event and to read bios of each speaker, visit the DFR website. OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Ave. in Portland.

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

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University’s 2024 Destination Western Program starts September 11 through September 20.

Destination Western is an all-expenses paid ten-day residential bridge orientation program designed to help new students build the skills needed to succeed in college-level writing and math as well as connect them socially. Students will participate in academic sessions throughout the program in small groups, and in academic activities, workshops, and social events.

“We are thrilled to embark on our fourth year of Destination Western! This year we welcome 160 new wolves committed to hitting the ground running and investing in themselves to be as successful as they can be during their time at WOU. I can’t wait to feel their energy on campus as they learn to call this special place home,” said Megan Habermann-Guthrie, Director of New Student & Family Programs.

There are several benefits to participating in the program. Those taking part in Destination Western live in the residence halls with other participants, have the chance to make friends and create their WOU community, meet faculty and staff dedicated to student success, learn to navigate the campus before the fall term starts, get early access to academic and campus resources, and receive free on-campus housing and meals throughout the experience.

Learn more about Destination Western

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.

See original post

September 16, 2024

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Thief Valley Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Thief Valley Reservoir in Baker and Union counties. OHA issued the advisory Aug. 5.

Monitoring and communication with partners have confirmed that water levels in Thief Valley Reservoir are very low; no recreation is taking place on the water body at this time. However, OHA still recommends visitors not let dogs eat anything that looks like an algae mat, even if it on dry ground. Algal matter may still contain toxins above recommended levels for pets.

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

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

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OREGON CITY — Metallica’s foundation, All Within My Hands, is once again continuing its multimillion-dollar investment in critical workforce programs at community colleges nationwide. Among the schools, Clackamas Community College was invited to return for year six and will continue to receive Metallica Scholars funding to enhance career and technical education programs. 

Launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges, the Metallica Scholars Initiative began with 10 colleges (including Clackamas Community College) and primarily manufacturing programs. The initiative offers diverse workforce opportunities for students interested in gaining the skills and training necessary to find meaningful and well-paying careers, including CCC’s heavy metals programs like welding, industrial technology and automotive technology. Additional curricula will include construction, health care and engineering, contributing to more than 25 fields of study offered within the initiative. To date, All Within My Hands has invested over $10.5 million in the American workforce, reaffirming a commitment to career and technical education at the local level.

“When we launched the Metallica Scholars Initiative, it really spoke to me. A collective goal of breaking the stigma of trade skills. Trade skills are vital to society, and what’s even more important is to support the many folks who are trying to create a career by learning and using these skills,” Meticalla’s James Hetfield said. “I am so proud - we all are - to see how this program is changing lives by providing much-needed resources to empower students, and it’s great that we’re able to make our biggest grant yet to support these students and the future workforce. We are reaching even further for year six of the Metallica Scholars Initiative. This year, our program will be in 60 schools in all 50 states! All thanks to your support.”

“Clackamas Community College is honored to once again be part of the Metallica Scholars Initiative. Through this partnership, we are providing essential skills and training to our students, preparing them for meaningful careers,” CCC President Tim Cook said. “The Metallica Scholars program exemplifies the power of collaboration between education and industry, and we remain committed to ensuring the success of our students and the growth of our community.”

Metallica Scholars are often considered nontraditional students, as many have families they support or are the first in their families to pursue a college education. All Within My Hands and the American Association of Community Colleges aim to connect students to skill-building opportunities and bridge the talent needs of the American workforce, all while using the community college system, which is the most affordable, flexible and industry-relevant applied-learning training provider in the country.

“Metallica, through their foundation, is changing how people view and engage with the trades in this country, and it is working,” Peter Delgrosso, executive director of All Within My Hands, said. “Metallica Scholars are diverse, motivated and ambitious, and we are here to help them reach their goals. I am so proud and honored to be able to announce entrance into all 50 states as this is a significant milestone for not only our foundation but the incredible community we have helped foster and connect.”

To learn more about Clackamas Community College’s Metallica Scholars program, contact Britany Ellerbrook at Britany.ellerbrook@clackamas.edu or visit, www.clackamas.edu/heavy-metals. 

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About All Within My Hands

All Within My Hands (AWMH) is a nonprofit, philanthropic organization conceived by the members and management of Metallica and dedicated to creating sustainable communities by supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services. 100% of donations go directly to local organizations that the Foundation supports. To date, All Within My Hands’ collective efforts have raised over $15M— providing $8.2M in grants to career and technical education programs, over $3.6M to combat food insecurity, and more than $3.5M to disaster relief efforts. To learn more about All Within My Hands, Visit AllWithinMyHands.org and follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, and LinkedIn. 

About AACC

As the voice of the nation’s community colleges, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), delivers educational and economic opportunity for more than 10 million diverse students in search of the American Dream. Uniquely dedicated to access and success for all students, AACC’s member colleges provide an on-ramp to degree attainment, skilled careers, and family-supporting wages. Located in Washington, D.C., AACC advocates for these not-for-profit, public-serving institutions to ensure they have the resources and support they need to deliver on the mission of increasing economic mobility for all. For more information, visit https://www.aacc.nche.edu/.

Press Log

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Legislative Committee will meet at 12:30 p.m. on September 16, 2024. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/89039417369?pwd=rsbHaIKGXlHvxkLpIB7ul2N1Qo3vEI.1 
Passcode: 187555

Linn County, Ore. 15 Sept 24- Oregon State Police investigating officer involved shooting in Linn County.

On September 14, 2024, at approximately 12:42 a.m., Linn County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle in rural Linn County, near Scio. Oregon State Police located the suspect vehicle on Shimanek Bridge Drive, off Richardson Gap Road. Upon arrival, troopers found the suspect armed and in the driver seat of the vehicle.

While officers were in contact with the suspect, the suspect discharged his firearm. The Linn County Regional SWAT Team, along with the Crisis Negotiation Team, were deployed to the scene. Officers spoke with the suspect on scene in an attempt to resolve the situation.

During the standoff with officers, the SWAT Team approached the suspect. The suspect pointed a firearm at officers and was shot. The 46-year-old suspect, identified as David Tobias Tyler, was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

The involved Benton County Sheriff’s deputy has been identified as Sergeant Daniel Ball (6 yrs.). No officers were injured during the incident.

The pedestrian was treated and released from the hospital. 

The Linn County Regional SWAT Team is a multi-agency unit consisting of personnel from the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Albany Police Department, and Sweet Home Police Department. 

The Oregon State Police will be conducting the primary investigation in conjunction with the Linn County District Attorney’s Office. 

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

UPDATED: 09/15/24, 2:45 p.m.

A Hillsboro Fire & Rescue investigator determined that a failed electrical outlet in the home's dining room and kitchen caused the fire. 

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue would like to remind everyone that working smoke alarms save lives.

• Test your smoke alarms at least once per month with all family members
• Review and practice your home escape plan
• Call 911 once you're safely outside of the structure

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At 10:25 a.m. today, an alert neighbor called 911 after noticing smoke coming from the back of a nearby home. They knew the resident and were concerned they would need assistance because they required a wheelchair. Additional neighbors driving by also reported seeing smoke and called 911. The resident was inside the home when the fire started and reported being awakened by the smell of smoke. They could safely move from inside to outside with some assistance from the alert neighbor. As they exited, they shut the front door to try and prevent the fire from spreading. The resident was concerned about their dogs and cat and were advised by the 911 call taker not to re-enter their home for their safety and to alert arriving firefighters. Four dogs and one cat in total were reported to be inside. 

Hillsboro Police officers were among the first responders to arrive at the scene. They reported seeing smoke coming up through the roof and emanating from the roof eaves. The officer went to the back of the home to check for other people or animals needing help. They found flames coming from a window in the back of the house and a large wood deck, which were areas of concern for stability reasons. En route to the fire, Engine 2 reported seeing a smoke header to the incident commander. The incident commander upgraded the fire to a first alarm to bring additional apparatus, equipment, and personnel to the scene. 

Firefighters advanced a hose line to the back of the home and carefully navigated the unstable deck areas. On the first arriving fire engine, the company officer completed a 360-degree evaluation of the home, and firefighters advanced another hose line to the front of the house as an additional fire attack hose line. A second engine company connected to a fire hydrant on Rood Bridge Road to provide water for the fire attack crews and stretched the firefighting supply hose to the forward engines. The fire hose needed to be stretched across Rood Bridge Road from the fire hydrant, so the roadway was temporarily closed to traffic. Once inside, firefighters located the area of the fire and knocked it down. They then worked to check for the extension of the fire to other parts of the home. They found that the fire did not extend and was contained in one area. Other firefighters rescued two dogs from a rear window of the house, and two other dogs were evacuated from the backyard. Firefighters thoroughly searched the home and reported finding no other people inside. They located and safely evacuated one cat that was reported missing. 

Firefighters assessed the resident for medical care and reported that they were not injured. A Hillsboro Public Safety Chaplain responded to the incident to provide care and coordinate assistance to the resident. The fire displaced three adults, four dogs, and one cat. 

A Hillsboro Fire & Rescue fire investigator responded to the scene to determine the cause of the fire. At this time, the cause remains under investigation. 

Hillsboro Fire & Rescue was assisted at the fire by Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Hillsboro Police, AMR Ambulance, and Hillsboro Public Safety Chaplains. 

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MEDFORD, Ore. – On Saturday, September 14, 2024, the Oregon Army National Guard's Det. 1, B Company, 1-168th General Support Aviation Battalion from Pendleton, Oregon, participated in a unique bosslift event at the Medford Airport. The event, co-organized with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), primarily involved local educators, offering them a rare glimpse into the capabilities of the National Guard's aviation assets.

Utilizing a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, the flight took participants on a scenic route from Medford Airport to Gold Beach, then south to Brookings, before returning to Medford. This bosslift marked a significant moment for Southern Oregon, being the first such event in the region in over a decade.

Mark Libantc, the Area 4 Vice Chair and Employer Outreach Representative for ESGR shared insights about the event's importance. "We've been trying to put together one for the employers forever. This is the first one that's ever come through," Libantc explained. He emphasized the value of these events in educating employers about the Guard's role and capabilities.

The event was coordinated through a collaborative effort between local recruiter Sgt. 1st Class Erik Andreason of the National Guard and Cecil Owens, the State ESGR Director. Libantc expressed hope that such flights could become a biannual occurrence.

ESGR, a Department of Defense program, aims to foster understanding between civilian employers and their National Guard and Reserve employees. While most ESGR representatives are volunteers, they play a crucial role in organizing events like this bosslift.

Looking ahead, ESGR hopes to expand these experiences to include visits to training sites like Biak Training Center or Camp Riley. "We think that would be a real eye-opener for the employers because they'd see what their citizen Soldiers are doing when they're at training," Libantc added, highlighting the educational value of such firsthand experiences.

This bosslift showcased the Oregon National Guard's aviation capabilities and strengthened the bond between the Guard and the communities it serves. As Guard members live and work in the same communities they protect, events like these reinforce why the Oregon National Guard remains the military service of choice for many Oregonians.

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Released Video: https://dvidshub.net/r/xdo7we

Released Photo: 

240914-Z-ZJ128-1001

Local educators and ESGR volunteers in front of an Oregon Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook helicopter at Medford Airport. The group flew along the Southern Oregon coast in a unique bosslift event on September 14, 2024. This flight, sponsored by Det. 1, B Company, 1-168th General Support Aviation Battalion, and ESGR, marks the return of bosslifts to the region after a decade-long hiatus, aiming to strengthen community ties and showcase National Guard capabilities.

On September 14, 2024 at 3:01am deputies responded to a report of a two-vehicle, serious-injury crash in the 16500 block of SE Foster Rd in east Multnomah County.  Shortly after arriving at the scene, deputies determined that one of the drivers was deceased.

The driver of the other vehicle, TITAS SHMIGEL, age 29 from Damascus, was arrested and later lodged at the Multnomah County Detention Center on the following charges:

• Manslaughter in the Second Degree
• Reckless Driving
• Reckless Endangering Of Another Person
• Fail To Perform The Duties Of A Driver – Serious Injury Or Death
• DUII

SE Foster Rd was closed for several hours between SE Jenne Rd and SE 172^nd Ave while the East County Vehicular Crimes Team investigated the crash.  This team is comprised of members from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and the Gresham Police Department. 

The identity of the driver who died in the crash will be released at a later date once notification to the victim’s family has been made. 

Press Log

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on September 17, 2024.  
This meeting will be held virtually through Zoom. 

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/82933861140?pwd=eddVgLfCOJeM8ZWNYMhGvbarru0YoN.1
Passcode: 444558
 

SWAT Team Involved in Fatal Shooting After Armed Standoff

Early this morning, at approximately 12:42 a.m., the Linn County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle in rural Linn County, near Scio. The Oregon State Police located the suspect vehicle on Shimanek Bridge Drive, off Richardson Gap Road. Upon arrival, officers found the driver, an armed male suspect in the driver seat of the vehicle.

Despite repeated commands, the suspect refused to comply with officers. During the standoff, the suspect discharged his firearm. The Linn County Regional SWAT Team, along with the Crisis Negotiation Team, was deployed to the scene. Investigators engaged with the suspect by phone in an attempt to peacefully resolve the situation.

The SWAT Team engaged with the armed suspect, and ultimately due to the suspect’s actions he was shot. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. No law enforcement personnel were injured in the incident.

The Linn County Regional SWAT Team is a multi-agency unit consisting of personnel from the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Albany Police Department, and Sweet Home Police Department. The SWAT Team Member who discharged their firearm is employed by the Benton County Sheriff’s Office.

As per agency policy and in accordance with deadly force protocols, Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan and Benton County Sheriff Jef Van Arsdall have requested the Oregon State Police to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.

The pedestrian who was struck by the vehicle was transported with minor injuries to the hospital.

For all media inquiries, please contact the Oregon State Police.

Press Log

HILLSBORO, Ore. – The remains of U.S. Army Private William E. Calkins were laid to rest at Fir Lawn Memorial Park in Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024 during a memorial service honoring the World War II Soldier who died in a prisoner of war camp in the Philippines in 1942. Private Calkins joined the U.S. Army from Oregon and served in Company B of the 31st Infantry Regiment in the Philippines during WWII.

With full military honors provided by the Oregon Army National Guard Funeral Honor Guard team, Private Calkins remains were laid to rest at his Mother’s grave at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park after being accounted for 82 years after his death on Nov. 1, 1942. After surviving the infamous Bataan Death March from April 9 to April 17, 1942, Calkins later died of inanition at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp in Nueva Ecija Province, and was buried in a mass grave until remains were identified using DNA analysis.

Oregon Army National Guard Chaplain (Col). Jacob Scott, Oregon National Guard State Chaplain officiated the memorial service for Private “Billy” Calkins, as family members and others from the community gathered to remember his service to his country during the war.

“The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in the Philippines occupies 152 acres on a prominent plateau in the capital city. In the center of those peaceful grounds stands a beautiful white marble memorial Chapel. A limestone hemisphere monument features the tablets of the missing, and contains 36,286 names,” Scott said, describing the memorial grounds where so many American service members are remembered. “Billy’s name is permanently inscribed on those tablets…but from now on, his name will forever be adorned with a Brass Rosette, signifying that Billy’s remains will now rest in a known grave.”

William Ezra Leon Calkins was born to Joseph and Ruth Calkins on August 22, 1925 and was just 17 years old at the time of his death on Nov. 1, 1942. With a strong desire to serve his country, Calkins lied about his age to join the U.S. Army at the age of 16.

Private Calkins military awards include: The Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster (posthumous), The Purple Heart (posthumous), The Prisoner of War Medal (posthumous), The Good Conduct Medal (posthumous), The American Defense Service Medal with Foreign Service Clasp, The World War II Victory Medal, the Presidential Unit Citation with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, the Combat Infantryman Badge (posthumous), The Philippine Defense Ribbon with Bronze Star and The Philippine Republic Presidential Unit Citation.

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Released Photos:

240913-Z-CH590-1134: Framed family photos, Military Awards and tributes rest on a remembrance table for U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1117: Family members and others in the Hillsboro, Oregon community attend the memorial service for U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1102: Oregon Army National Guard Funeral Honors members conduct a flag folding ceremony to honor U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins during his memorial service at Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old.  (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1110 and 240913-Z-CH590-1114: An Oregon Army National Guard Funeral Honor Guard member presents the American Flag to family members of U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins during his memorial service at Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1021 and 240913-Z-CH590-1083:Oregon Army National Guard Funeral Honors members carry the remains of U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins during his memorial service at Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1027: Oregon Army National Guard Chaplain (Col). Jacob Scott, Oregon National Guard State Chaplain officiates the memorial service for U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1037: An Oregon Army National Guard Honor Guard member plays TAPS after a firing party honors are rendered for U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

240913-Z-CH590-1003: A funeral procession for U.S. Army Private Billy E. Calkins at the Fir Lawn Memorial Park, Hillsboro, Oregon on Sept. 13, 2024. Calkins remains were return to Oregon 82 years after his death in the Philippines where he served with the 31st Infantry Regiment, Company B, and died at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on Nov. 1, 1942 when he was 17 years old. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

Update- Suspect age corrected to be 34.

Polk County, Ore. 13 Sept 24- Oregon State Police investigating officer involved shooting in Polk County. 

At approximately 4:30 a.m., September 13, Salem Police officers responded to the call of a woman reporting she was being kidnapped at 585 Wallace Rd NW (Salem).  Officers located the suspect vehicle with the woman inside. As officers attempted to stop the male driver, he turned into the parking lot of an apartment complex in the 300 block of Glen Creek RD NW. 

The suspect vehicle stopped in the complex parking lot. The woman got out of the car as officers approached the involved vehicle. The suspect exited the car armed with a knife and was shot by two of the responding officers. 

The 34-year-old suspect, Daniel Lewis Garcia, was provided immediate medical aid by officers prior to being transported to Salem Health where he is currently being treated.   

The involved Salem police officers have been identified as: Officer Nathan Bush (7 yrs.), Officer Colten Ruyle (1 yr.), and Officer Faith Hovenden (1.5 yrs.). No officers were injured during the incident.

The Polk County Law Enforcement Use of Deadly Force Plan under Senate Bill 111 has been initiated for this incident, and the Oregon State Police will be conducting the primary investigation in coordination with the Polk County District Attorney’s Office.   

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

(Astoria, OR) -- When disaster strikes, any community can become an "island," cut off from the outside world due to impassable travel and supply routes. As a result, the shelves in stores and food banks quickly become empty, medical supplies run low, and some community members may need temporary shelter.

On September 21, Clatsop County Emergency Management will partner with volunteers from the Oregon Disaster Airlift Response Team (ODART), Clatsop County AuxComm, Clatsop County Search and Rescue, and the Knappa Food Pantry to practice delivery of relief supplies to the Knappa-Svensen community.  Up to five small private aircraft will be loaded with nonperishable food and N95 masks at Aurora State Airport which they will then transport to the grass airstrip at Svensen. Depending on the type of aircraft, these flights will take between 35 and 65 minutes.

Karpen’s Airfield, 5.64 nautical miles East of Tongue Point at an elevation of 125 feet, was chosen due to its location just outside of the area assumed to be immediately impacted by ground subsidence and a tsunami following a major earthquake.  Historically, weather-related events have also affected Clatsop County transportation routes, so this exercise is about practicing for those as well.

Ham radio emergency communications are vital to the success of ODART operations, especially during times when the commercial infrastructure may be damaged or overloaded.  Before the planes depart from Aurora, Clatsop County AuxComm will send a report on weather and field conditions at Svensen via the Winlink global email system to their counterparts at Aurora so the pilots will know what to expect upon arrival. Then, hams at both airports will track cargo manifests as well as confirm takeoff and landing times for aircraft safety.  Upon arrival, Clatsop County SAR will help unload the planes and the supplies will be donated to the Knappa Food Pantry.

ODART, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is run entirely by volunteers who respond to requests from local emergency managers to provide logistical support when communities face disruptions due to disasters.  

“This exercise will show how small planes, piloted by volunteers, can land on a variety of surfaces – from paved runways and grass strips to sandbars and water – delivering food, medical supplies, and other essential items when traditional routes are obstructed” said Mike Neelon, Clatsop County Emergency Management Readiness Coordinator.  

“Exercises like this allow volunteers to practice how they might provide meaningful assistance to their neighbors in the hours and days following a major disaster event” said Jim Origliosso, ODART President.

Event Details and Timeline – Saturday, September 21, 2024

08:00: Reconnaissance flights launch on pre-established routes and report ground observations

09:00-09:45: Aircraft are loaded at the Aurora State Airport and depart for Svensen

10:00-10:30: Aircraft arrive at Karpen’s Airfield and unload cargo

10:30-11:00: Aircraft depart Karpen’s Airfield and return to their home bases

Aviation safety is a top priority, so in the event of inclement weather this exercise will be postponed to Saturday, October 5, 2024.

For more information:

Clatsop County Emergency Management Department: www.clatsopcounty.gov/em

Oregon Disaster Airlift Response Team: www.odart.org

Clatsop County AuxComm: www.clatsopauxcomm.org

Knappa Food Pantry:  www.facebook.com/groups/349192159525143

Winlink Global Radio Email system: winlink.org

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Disturbance with a Weapon Leads to City of Camas Council Member’s Arrest and Recovery of Firearm.

On 08-31-2024 at about 0752 hours, Camas Police responded to a disturbance involving a firearm along the Washougal River Greenway in the City of Camas. The disturbance began as a verbal argument between a fisherman along the river, and a pedestrian who was walking along the greenway trail and over the pedestrian foot bridge. The argument escalated to the point where an 8-inch rock was thrown from the bridge and down towards the fisherman below. The altercation continued along the walking path and the pedestrian brandished a handgun and aimed it towards the fisherman. 

The involved parties and witnesses were interviewed by officers on the day of the incident. The pedestrian with the handgun was identified as 66-year-old John Vincent Svilarich. Follow up investigation of the incident was later conducted by Camas Police detectives. On 9-13-24 detectives contacted and arrested Svilarich for misdemeanor crimes of Reckless Endangerment and Aiming/Discharging a Firearm. He was processed at the Camas Police Department and released.  The handgun used in the incident was surrendered to detectives.  

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September 13, 2024

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that Bennett Miller, 25, was sentenced by a Multnomah County Circuit Court judge to life in prison for two counts of Murder in the First Degree in relation to the June 2023 double-homicide of Fortressen Oriakhi and Isidahomen Ikhuoria in Northeast Portland.

Case Facts

In the early morning hours of Friday, June 23, 2023, Portland Police Bureau officers in the area of NE Cesar Chavez Boulevard and NE Sandy Boulevard heard multiple gunshots in quick succession. A car determined to belong to Fortressen Oriakhi was found crashed into a utility pole nearby, and both victims were located inside the vehicle deceased from multiple gunshot wounds. Based on the physical evidence, witness statements, and the preliminary investigation of the crime scene, PPB concluded that the victims had been driving on NE Cesar Chavez Blvd when a gunman pulled up next to them at the intersection of NE Cesar Chavez and NE Halsey and fired 10 shots into the victims’ vehicle before fleeing the scene.

In the course of the investigation, PPB detectives were able to identify Bennett Miller as the gunman via witness interviews and phone records. Evidence showed his path of travel to be consistent with that of the suspect vehicle on the night of the murders, and Miller was found to co-own a 2018 Toyota Camry identical to the suspect vehicle witnesses reported seeing. A friend of his reported that two days after the incident, Miller had admitted to shooting two people in a car who he had mistaken for individuals with whom he had issues. 

Plea and Sentencing

Senior Deputy District Attorney Nathan Vasquez and Deputy District Attorney Brad Kalbaugh represented the state in this case. A plea agreement was negotiated between the state and defense over the course of several months, with consideration of and in accordance with the wishes of the victims’ families. Sentencing took place this morning in front of Judge Eric Bergstrom, and Miller was sentenced to life in prison on two counts of Murder in the First Degree.  Miller may request parole after he has served a minimum of 32 years. He has been transferred into the custody of the Oregon Department of Corrections, where he will remain for the duration of his sentence.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the gravity of this offense, both for the friends and families of the victims and the broader community. During the course of this investigation, we learned that these two young men were incredible individuals and immense bright lights in this world. We extend our condolences to those still grieving the losses of their loved ones and express our appreciation for all who contributed to the resolution of this case. A special thank you to PPB Detectives Travis Law and Ryan Foote, and MCDA victim advocate Soukthavy Kanhalikham for their work on this case.

#MCDA#

September 13, 2024

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that Bennett Miller, 25, was sentenced by a Multnomah County Circuit Court judge to life in prison for two counts of Murder in the First Degree in relation to the June 2023 double-homicide of Fortressen Oriakhi and Isidahomen Ikhuoria in Northeast Portland.

Case Facts

In the early morning hours of Friday, June 23, 2023, Portland Police Bureau officers in the area of NE Cesar Chavez Boulevard and NE Sandy Boulevard heard multiple gunshots in quick succession. A car determined to belong to Fortressen Oriakhi was found crashed into a utility pole nearby, and both victims were located inside the vehicle deceased from multiple gunshot wounds. Based on the physical evidence, witness statements, and the preliminary investigation of the crime scene, PPB concluded that the victims had been driving on NE Cesar Chavez Blvd when a gunman pulled up next to them at the intersection of NE Cesar Chavez and NE Halsey and fired 10 shots into the victims’ vehicle before fleeing the scene.

In the course of the investigation, PPB detectives were able to identify Bennett Miller as the gunman via witness interviews and phone records. Evidence showed his path of travel to be consistent with that of the suspect vehicle on the night of the murders, and Miller was found to co-own a 2018 Toyota Camry identical to the suspect vehicle witnesses reported seeing. A friend of his reported that two days after the incident, Miller had admitted to shooting two people in a car who he had mistaken for individuals with whom he had issues. 

Plea and Sentencing

Senior Deputy District Attorney Nathan Vasquez and Deputy District Attorney Brad Kalbaugh represented the state in this case. A plea agreement was negotiated between the state and defense over the course of several months, with consideration of and in accordance with the wishes of the victims’ families. Sentencing took place this morning in front of Judge Eric Bergstrom, and Miller was sentenced to life in prison on two counts of Murder in the First Degree.  Miller may request parole after he has served a minimum of 32 years. He has been transferred into the custody of the Oregon Department of Corrections, where he will remain for the duration of his sentence.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the gravity of this offense, both for the friends and families of the victims and the broader community. During the course of this investigation, we learned that these two young men were incredible individuals and immense bright lights in this world. We extend our condolences to those still grieving the losses of their loved ones and express our appreciation for all who contributed to the resolution of this case. A special thank you to PPB Detectives Travis Law and Ryan Foote, and MCDA victim advocate Soukthavy Kanhalikham for their work on this case.

#MCDA#

Vancouver, Wash. –  The construction of a new picnic shelter at Klineline Pond is ready to resume. Construction began earlier this year but was paused this spring due to bald eagles nesting near the project site. Now that the eagles have left the nest, construction will resume.

Irreparable damage to the former Pondview shelter from a winter storm required demolition of the structure, and a new structure is being built in its place. Construction of the new shelter should be complete by November. 

During the week of October 7, the contractor will be pumping concrete to the construction site. Construction impacts should be minimal, however visitors to the park may encounter inconveniences during construction. Visitors are reminded for their safety to stay out of work zones.

Construction is weather dependent, and the schedule is subject to change. For more information, contact program coordinator Jacob Huston at .huston@clark.wa.gov">Jacob.huston@clark.wa.gov or 360.719.0756.

Updates to the construction timeline and impacts will be posted on Public Works’ social media profiles, and at clark.wa.gov/public-works. 

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

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

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

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

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

Eleven displaced due two lithium-ion battery caused fires in a single day.

At just before 7 AM yesterday, September 12, 2024, Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a fire in a Southwest Portland Neighborhood that ultimately caused hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages and will displace 3 adult residents until the home can be repaired and inhabited again. And just before midnight, crews in Southeast Portland responded to a fire in a multi-occupancy apartment complex that displaced 8 residents and caused significant damage to the structure that will take a while to repair. What each of these responses have in common is the cause of the fire was the result of a thermal runaway of a rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery. 

These batteries are woven into our lives in the 21^st Century with many devices that include phones, laptop computers, toys, tools, scooters, and bicycles along with countless other objects. The rechargeable batteries certainly increase the ease and efficiency of life in the hustle and bustle world we live within but come with some significant dangers that include a thermal runaway of the encased battery cells. This thermal runaway will cause high heat, explosions, and lead to fire if the battery is located on or near combustible items. These thermal runaway situations most often occur when the battery is actively being charged but can also occur when the battery is not connected to a power source as was the case in one of the responses yesterday. It is well known that lithium-ion batteries can enter a state labeled as “Thermal Runaway”. As noted by UL Research Institutes, one of the primary risks related to lithium-ion batteries is thermal runaway. Thermal runaway is a phenomenon in which the lithium-ion cell enters an uncontrollable, self-heating state. Thermal runaway can result in extremely high temperatures, violent cell venting, smoke, and fire. Good information regarding this phenomenon can be found here: What Causes Thermal Runaway? | UL Research Institutes. 

PF&R responded to a similar incident last month and 4 months ago with scooter batteries going into thermal runaway and causing smoke and water damage to buildings and in each of these situations, the scooters were being stored in a common egress route that in effect blocked the exit of the building with smoke and fire forcing residents evacuating to find a secondary exit during a time of heightened chaos of the incident with fire alarms sounding and fire sprinklers activated. These incidents can be avoided by following the guidelines below. 

Portland Fire & Rescue would like remind Portlanders that lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy and can pose a threat if not treated properly. These batteries are found in electric bikes and scooters, cars, laptops, tablets, phones, and common household devices. Like any product, a small number of these batteries can be defective and can overheat, catch fire, or explode. Lithium-ion battery fires have caused deaths, injuries, and serious fires nationwide. These fires burn hot and fast and can emit large amounts of toxic smoke.

If using any devices powered by lithium-ion batteries:

--Be sure any equipment has the Underwriter Laboratories (UL) mark.

--Follow manufacturers’ instructions for charging and storage.

--Do not charge a device under your pillow, on your bed, or on a couch.

--Keep batteries/devices stored at room temperature. Do not place in direct sunlight.

--Store batteries away from anything flammable.

--Do not charge or store battery operated devices or scooters in stairways/stairwells, in exit pathways, or in front of exit doors. We recommend actively charging this equipment only while you are home. 

--If a battery overheats or you notice an odor, change in shape/color, cracks, leaking, or odd noises coming from a device, discontinue use immediately. If safe to do so, move the device away from anything that can catch fire and call 911.

--Inspect all lithium-ion battery-powered equipment and chargers for frayed or cracked cords and replace if necessary.

For safe battery disposal/recycling information, please see this link from the Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability:  www.portland.gov/bps/garbage-recycling/battery-recycling

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HILLSBORO, Ore- On September 4, 2024, Richard Dale Warren, age 69, pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual abuse in the first degree. On September 10, 2024, Washington County Circuit Court Judge Brandon Thompson sentenced the defendant to a total of 20 years in prison and ordered he serve post-prison supervision for a period of ten years. Deputy District Attorney Rayney Meisel prosecuted this case.

In March of 2022, the Washington County Sheriff's Office received a report of sexual abuse committed by the defendant. The victim reported the defendant sexually assaulted her multiple times over a one-year period. Mr. Warren threatened to rape and kill her loved ones if she ever told anyone about his actions. Despite these threats, the victim summoned the courage to confide in a family member who then alerted law enforcement. 

During this investigation, detectives learned Mr. Warren has also abused other victims in other states, beginning in the 1980s. The defendant told a family member he was considering murdering one of his prior victims to prevent her from reporting the abuse. That victim, now in her 50’s, confirmed the past abuse to police. She never disclosed the abuse out of fear. When detectives spoke to Mr. Warren, he admitted to historic abuse of multiple victims. He told investigators that he periodically harassed and taunted one victim by sending her sexually explicit photos and messages reminding her of his abuse. He also bragged to her that he would never be held accountable for his actions and told police he had moved to Oregon to avoid arrest.

“Sexually abusing these girls wasn’t enough for him. He took pleasure in inflicting fear and pain both during the abuse and for years after,” DDA Meisel said.  

At sentencing, the victim’s mother read a statement prepared by the child victim. In it, she told the defendant that she would not be defined by his actions. She emphasized that through work with her trauma therapist, she has found a way to survive and will go on to graduate high school and college and live happily, despite what he did to her. 

Authorities have reason to believe that there may be other victims. Anyone with information about additional crimes committed by the defendant should contact law enforcement. 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office wishes to praise the victim in this case for the bravery shown in reporting the defendant and enduring the legal process. This office also acknowledges the work of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and CARES Northwest. 

Mr. Warren will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to serve his sentence. 

Gresham, Ore.— On the evening of September 24^th, 2021, Gresham Police patrol officers were dispatched to a report of a deceased person near NE 189^th Ave and NE Portal Way. The victim was found with no shoes, no wallet, no phone, no identification, and broken zip-ties laying near his arms and hands. His positioning and injuries indicated he was executed by a single gunshot while kneeling on the curb. The victim was later identified as 34-year-old Andrew Sherrell of Bend, Oregon. 

The East County Major Crimes Team was activated and led the investigation.  The investigation bifurcated into two groups, with a small contingent of MCT detectives responding to Central Oregon, where they partnered with detectives from the Bend Police Department, Redmond Police Department, and Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office. Other MCT members continued to investigate the case locally. Our Central Oregon agency partners were an invaluable resource throughout this investigation.

Through a labor intensive, months-long investigation, detectives learned the victim was a low-level drug dealer who failed to pay for narcotics fronted to him by his dealer, Cesar Estrada Nava. Estrada Nava was also feeling the pressure from a substantial drug debt to his own dealer.

Estrada Nava enlisted the assistance of Kassandra Kitchens, D’Sean Baker, CJ Wobbe, and Andrew Bushnell, in a plot that led to the execution of Andrew Sherrell. Andrew Sherrell and a friend drove from the Central Oregon area to the Portland Lloyd district on the day of his murder, not knowing a plot to kill him had been set in motion. Kitchens, a romantic interest of Sherrell’s, lured Sherrell to a parking lot with an offer of discount fentanyl. Once Sherrell was inside Kitchen’s SUV, she drove him a block down the street to the waiting arms of Estrada Nava, Baker, Wobbe, and Bushnell. 

Andrew Sherrell was assaulted by Andrew Bushnell and D’Sean Baker before being forced into the back of an SUV where Estrada Nava was waiting. Kitchens drove Estrada Nava and Sherrell to a second location in the Lloyd district while Sherrell’s hands, arms, legs, and feet were being zip-tied together. 

The wheelman, CJ Wobbe, and enforcers D’Sean Baker and Andrew Bushnell met the SUV and exchanged positions. Wobbe drove the SUV while Estrada Nava and Baker assaulted, and pistol whipped the defenseless, zip-tied Sherrell in the backseat. Bushnell was assigned to follow the SUV to its final location, but he was unable to keep up, ultimately getting lost in the Lloyd district and failing to participate in the final moments of Sherrell’s life. With her work finished, Kitchens returned to Estrada Nava’s home to await the other conspirators. 

At Estrada Nava’s direction Wobbe drove to the industrial area of NE 189^th Ave and NE Portal Way. Sherrell was ripped from the vehicle, placed on his knees by Estrada Nava and Baker, and executed on the dark sidewalk.

In the early morning hours of December 13^th, 2021, multiple search and arrest warrants were simultaneously executed by four SWAT teams, multiple local and federal drug task force members, and MCT investigators. Four of the five suspects were arrested and charged with murder, while investigators and the Gresham Police Department evidence division searched several locations. The fifth suspect was located and arrested by the Portland Police Bureau after a vehicle pursuit in early 2022.

After years of hearings, motions, meetings, interviews, debriefs, and thousands of pages of discovery, Senior Deputy District Attorney Kelley Rhoades resolved the case with each of the defendants.  In September of 2024 the final plea agreements were reached in this case.  The participants received the following sentences:

Cesar Estrada Nava – 20 years

D’Sean Baker – 20 years

Kassandra Kitchens – 115 months 

Andrew Bushnell – 100 months

CJ Wobbe – 90 months 

The Gresham Police Department would like to thank each of the following agencies and units for their assistance with this investigation.  Without each of the involved agencies, units, and individuals, this case would not have been successfully concluded:

• Bend Police Department
• Redmond Police Department
• Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office
• Portland Police Bureau 
  • Patrol Division
  • Homicide Detectives
  • SERT
• FBI Drug Task Force
• FBI SWAT
• NW Regional Computer Forensic Laboratory
• Southwest Washington SWAT
• East Metro SWAT
• East County Major Crimes Team
• Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office – Senior DDA K. Rhoades

(Astoria, OR) — Clatsop County’s 6 Weeks Ready campaign focuses on personal emergency preparedness and is introducing its Week 2 focus: Disaster Planning with Everyone in Mind.

"Just like learning any new skill, disaster planning takes time. It’s okay if your plan is imperfect at first. What’s most important is that you have a plan in place and remain curious about how it can be improved. Then, practice!" said Jen Munson, Clatsop County Emergency Management Community Engagement Coordinator.

Clatsop County’s 6-Weeks Ready campaign provides residents and businesses with an opportunity to increase preparedness efforts. 

“Need ideas or feedback? Come to our Get Ready Fair at Camp Rilea on September 28,” Munson said.

Disaster Planning with Everyone in Mind encourages individuals to tailor their preparations to their life:

• Find out which hazards might impact where you live, work and play. Check if your home, workplace or child’s school is in a tsunami inundation zone.
• Identify factors unique to your life that may require extra attention. Do you have children, care for seniors, pets or individuals living with disabilities?
• You never know where and when a disaster will strike. That means being prepared may look different depending on where you are – at home, work, shop or spend leisure time. Make a plan to respond for each location.
• Have a Communications Plan so you can stay informed during an emergency and know how you and your loved ones can stay in contact with one another. Make sure you give a paper copy of your plan to every loved one so they can refer to it.

IMPORTANT TIP: Did you know that during a disaster, cell towers often get jammed from all the people trying to call loved ones? Have someone on your contact list who is out of state. They can serve as a “relay,” where you and your loved ones can leave messages and updates. 

• Identify and prepare for potential natural and human-caused hazards at work. “In fact, members of our business community would benefit by having a continuity-of-operations plan.  This strategy can help keep a workplace functional and safe both during and after a disaster,” Munson said.

Each week of the campaign, preparedness themes and resources will guide residents to becoming prepared. They will be posted on the County website. 

Week 1: Sept. 5        Building a Kit
Week 2: Sept. 11       Disaster Planning with Everyone in Mind
Week 3: Sept. 18       Protecting your Family & Property in a Disaster
Week 4: Sept. 25      Food & Water in an Emergency 
              Sept. 28      Get Ready Clatsop County Preparedness Event
Week 5: Oct. 2          Tsunami Evacuation
Week 6: Oct. 9          Earthquake Safety 

The campaign ends Thursday, Oct. 17, on the day of the Great Shakeout. 

"The Great Shakeout offers a valuable chance to test your disaster plan, whether for your family or business. It's a fun, hands-on way to practice and promote community responsibility in whichever setting you choose to participate," Munson said.

Personal and emergency preparedness information is at ClatsopCounty.gov.

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(Astoria, OR) — Clatsop County is accepting applications for four vacancies on the 4-H Extension Budget Committee.

Members of the budget committee review the proposed overall 4-H Extension Service budget, make recommendations and approve the proposed 4-H Extension budget for adoption by the county commissioners.

The term for these positions will expire June 30, 2027.

The applications are due Friday, October 4, 2024. To apply, submit an online application at ClatsopCounty.gov. You also may pick up an application at the Clatsop County Manager’s Office, 800 Exchange St., Suite 410 in Astoria.

The Board of Commissioners will make the appointment at an upcoming Board of Commissioners meeting.

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WHAT

Visit the Portland Farmers Market at Portland State University this Saturday to meet small business owners from Chungju-Si, South Korea!

Following their successful visit to the market last year, the Chungju Culture and Tourism Foundation, City of Culture Chungju is back with four small businesses from their city.

The foundation and business owners will have a dedicated booth at the market where everyone can engage with our international guests, learn about their city, products, services, and mission, and sample their offerings.

The four South Korean businesses visiting the Portland Farmers Market are:

• SINCERE COFFEE WORKS: A coffee company curating and roasting a diverse selection of specialty coffee beans from around the world.
• COUNT ON: A fragrance workshop specializing in creating custom scents for spaces and offering fragrance branding and direction.
• NAEPO GINDEUL AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION: A farm producing popcorn from non-GMO corn grown in Geundel Village, Chungju.
• HYEAN HERITAGE: An organization promoting Korea's cultural heritage through tourism products, educational content, media, international programs, and art workshops utilizing artifacts and historical sites.

WHO

Katy Kolker

Executive Director

Portland Farmers Market

WHEN

Saturday, September 14, 2024, 8:30 am - 2 pm

WHERE

Portland Farmers Market at Portland State University

Downtown Portland in the South Park Blocks between SW College & Montgomery Streets. The closest address is 1803 SW Park Ave, Portland, Oregon.

ABOUT CHUNGJU-SI 

Chungju-Si, located in the center of the South Korean Peninsula within the North Chungcheong province, is a thriving city with high-tech industries, cultural tourism, and sustainable farming. More than 210,000 residents support a growing economy and new industry. Centrally located and surrounded by beautiful mountains, lakes, and hot springs, Chungju-Si is popular with outdoor enthusiasts and visitors. 

ABOUT PORTLAND FARMERS MARKET 

Portland Farmers Market operates food and farm marketplaces that contribute to the success of local food growers and producers and provide vibrant community gatherings. The independently run nonprofit organization manages five weekly farmers markets in Portland, including the flagship, year-round market on Saturdays at Portland State University. 

Over half a million shoppers purchase farm-fresh produce, flowers, meats, seafood, baked goods and other specialty foods from more than 190 vendors, generating $9 million in sales annually. Through its operating markets, Portland Farmers Market is an incubator for emerging businesses, a leader in the local food movement, a culinary focal point, a cultural destination, and a beacon for Portland's sustainable culture. 

To learn more about how Portland Farmers Market grows, nourishes and inspires the community, follow them on Instagram and Facebook and visit their website. 

Update

This morning at approximately 7:00 a.m., a Clark County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) deputy located Mr. Neely's vehicle in the 11600 block of NE 76th Street. Mr. Neely was located inside the vehicle deceased. Detectives from the CCSO Major Crime Unit responded and at this time there is nothing suspicious in nature regarding Mr. Neely's death. His family has been notified.  

The Vancouver Police Department is seeking to locate 54-year-old Christopher Neeley. Neeley was last seen and heard from on 09/11/2024 in Vancouver. Neeley has medical needs and may be having a medical emergency. Neeley is known to drive a 2019 Nissan Titian with Georgia license plate RQW7538. If you have any information about Neeley's whereabout please contact the Vancouver Police Depart. or email Det. James Dewey at James.Dewey@cityofvancouver.us or Det. Jake Carlow at Jake.Carlow@cityofvancouver.us.

PORTLAND, Ore.–The VA Portland Health Care System hosted a community celebration of its new facility in Astoria, Oregon on Friday, September 13, from 10:00 a.m. to noon.

The new Astoria Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOC), located at 3196 Marine Drive, in Astoria, will benefit Veterans in the area by providing them with easier access to healthcare services for their needs. By offering a convenient location for Veterans to receive medical care, the clinic helps improve their overall wellbeing and quality of life.

The clinic will provide outpatient services, including health and wellness visits. Nation-wide, the VA currently has over 800 Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOC). VHA implemented these clinics to make access to health care easier.

The Astoria CBOC replaces the current VA clinic located at Camp Rilea in Warrenton. The need for a new clinic was prompted by an increasing demand for healthcare services among Veterans in the area, and the need to expand existing facilities to meet evolving healthcare needs. The new Astoria facility will ensure local Veterans living in the area will receive care in a timely manner.

The new facility is located near the Astoria Riverwalk (6.4 mile rail-trail), on the main thoroughfare through Astoria, a block from the trolley line & close to downtown. The location can provide convenient access for patients and staff for recreational activities and therapeutic benefits. The building has also incorporated Energy Star green technology into its design.

PORTLAND, Ore., September 13, 2024 — A brand-new type of edible not previously available in Oregon can now be found on retail shelves across the state. Joy Bombs Candy-Coated Fruit Chews is the first THC-infused, candy-coated fruit chew in Oregon. The first packages of Joy Bombs were delivered to Blooming Deals by Cannabis Nation in Beaverton on July 29, 2024. 

“Joy Bombs are unlike anything else on our shelves—they are unique, reliable and truly enjoyable,” said Tony Fritts, Regional Manager of Cannabis Nation. “The excitement among our customers and budtenders is palpable. Packs are flying off the shelves as people discover there’s a new edible option that is not only fun and delicious but easy to dose, store and share.”

Nimble Distro, a wholesale cannabis distribution company based in Milwaukie, Ore., is working with Joyibles, a Colorado-based cannabis company and creator of Joy Bombs, to increase production and deliver the novel edibles to retailers like Cannabis Nation across Oregon.

“We have had the privilege of working with Nimble for a long time,” Fritts continued. “It's incredible to see them once again raising the bar in Oregon’s cannabis industry when it comes to introducing new and innovative products and running a great business.”

Unique candy coating and flexible dosing

Joy Bombs are leading product innovation in cannabis edibles with a protective candy shell that makes them pocket-friendly and non-melting. Their fruity, chewy centers feature flavor profiles carefully crafted to complement their pure THC distillate. Each bag of Joy Bombs contains 40 bite-sized pieces dosed with 2.5mg of THC, allowing consumers to tailor their experience.

"Joy Bombs are perfect for casual snacking and sharing, and they're dosed to suit your preferred amount of THC" said Don Novak, chief executive officer, Joyibles. "Our goal at Joyibles is to create fun, candy-inspired products for adult consumers looking for a better edibles experience, so we're thrilled to introduce Oregon retailers and consumers to the UnGummy alternative. We are honored to be working with Joy and the entire Nimble Distro team, and so grateful to be a part of the Oregon cannabis industry."

Joy Bombs are available in three flavor packs: Original Fruit, which includes Strawberry and Fruit Punch flavors; Sour Fruit, which includes Pink Lemonade and Watermelon; and Sour Blends, which are infused with 2.5 mg of CBD in addition to 2.5 mg of THC and include Pucker Pear and Cherry Berry flavors.

Joy Bombs are currently available in Oregon, Colorado, New Mexico and Massachusetts. A specific list of locations can be found here. Joy Bombs will be available in more retailers across Oregon as Nimble works to quickly expand distribution statewide. 

Efficiently innovating novel products in Nimble Kitchen

Nimble makes Joy Bombs at its new onsite commercial cannabis kitchen and distributes them to retailers across Oregon. Nimble Kitchen opened in May 2024.

“Nimble Kitchen allows us to manufacture and distribute our brands under one roof,” said Joy Hudson, chief executive officer and co-founder, Nimble. “Creating our products in-house ensures the highest quality for our customers, creates operational efficiencies and space for us to experiment and introduce novel cannabis products like Joy Bombs.”

Nimble expanding operations alongside revenues

Nimble has grown rapidly in its first three years, paving the way for the opening of Nimble Kitchen and the launch of Joy Bombs. Its revenues increased almost 20-fold in its first two years, from $296,000 in 2021 to $5.2 million in 2023. This is despite Oregon’s volatile, cannabis marketplace, where overharvesting, retail saturation and low prices are making it challenging for businesses to turn a profit.

“We have found our wholesale license profitable because it allows us to diversify and remain nimble as the market fluctuates. Nimble Kitchen and Joy Bombs are the latest examples of that,” Hudson said. “Add our professionalism and laser focus on our customers to the mix, and we have the winning formula to become the state's largest wholesale distribution company. The sky is the limit as federalization remains imminent. And we are just getting started.”

Please visit www.nimbledistro.com to learn more about Nimble.

About Nimble Distro

Nimble Distro is a leading wholesale distribution company in the cannabis industry. Driven by a powerful logistics and manufacturing engine, Nimble Distro drives profitability and positive social impact by forging collaborative partnerships with premier cannabis cultivators and processors. With a focus on product excellence and community engagement, Nimble Distro is committed to reshaping the future of the cannabis industry.

About Joyibles

Joyibles' team of cannabis industry veterans and world-class candy makers delights in pushing the boundaries of cannabis product experience and innovation. After becoming one of the leading edibles brands in Colorado with the introduction of Joy Bombs Candy-Coated Fruit Chews, Joyibles is expanding into new state markets to share the joy of its industry-leading products with 21+ consumers across the US.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
DATE: September 13, 2024 
CONTACT: Salem Police Communications Office | spdmedia@cityofsalem.net 
 

                                             Suspected kidnapper shot and injured by police 
 

Salem, Ore. — A suspect was injured early Friday morning after being shot by Salem Police officers. At approximately 4:30 a.m., September 13, Salem Police officers responded to the call of a woman reporting she was being kidnapped. Officers located the suspect vehicle with the woman inside. As officers attempted to stop the male driver, he turned into the parking lot of an apartment complex in the 300 block of Glen Creek RD NW. The suspect vehicle stopped in the complex parking lot. The woman got out of the car as officers approached the involved vehicle. The suspect exited the car armed with a knife and was shot by two of the responding officers. The 34-year-old suspect was provided immediate medical aid by officers prior to being transported to Salem Health where he is currently being treated. No officers were injured during the incident. The Polk County Law Enforcement Use of Deadly Force Plan under Senate Bill 111 has been initiated for this incident, and the Oregon State Police will be conducting the primary investigation in coordination with the Polk County District Attorney’s Office. Per the use of force plan protocol, all further statements concerning this investigation will be provided by the Oregon State Police, including the name of the suspect and the officers involved in the incident. 

                                                                                 # # #

GRESHAM, Ore. – Get ready for a pawsome day of fun at the third annual Dog Days of Summer event, hosted by the Gresham Police Department on Saturday, September 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Gresham City Hall, 1333 Northwest Eastman Parkway. This free community event will have something for every dog lover—humans and pups alike! 

In addition to thrilling K9 demonstrations from police units across the region, this year’s event offers a special treat: the chance to meet comfort dogs from around the metro area! These sweet and supportive canines are here to help, and you’ll have the opportunity to take individual photos with them during designated time slots. Featured comfort dogs include: 

• Remi from Beaverton, photos at 10:30 a.m. 
• Burton from Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, photos at 11:00 a.m. 
• Tagg from Gresham, photos at 11:30 a.m. 
• Onyx from Tualatin, photos at 12:00 p.m. 

Be sure to stop by the photo booth to capture your special moment with these amazing comfort dogs and take home an autographed photo of your favorite Gresham Police dog.  

This year’s event will also feature exciting K9 demonstrations from local police units, including Gresham, Oregon City, Gladstone, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, and Lake Oswego. Watch these skilled K9s show off their incredible abilities. 

Timeline of Events: 

• 10:00 a.m. – 10:20 a.m.: Welcome and introductions, including a spotlight on Tagg, Gresham Police Department’s comfort dog. 
• 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.: Presentations from Guide Dogs for the Blind, Working Dogs of Oregon, Valley View Canine, Scoop Soldier, Oregon Dog Rescue and more. 
• 11:30 a.m.: Demos from local bomb and arson dogs. 
• 12:00 p.m.: K9 demonstrations from the East Metro K9 Training Unit. 

But that’s not all! You can enjoy delicious treats from local vendors, shop for your pup, and even contribute to a good cause: 

• Theresa’s Pet Store  
• Kona Ice  
• Chris Cakes NW  
• Northwest Canine Cakes  
• Scoop Soldier 
• My Father’s House  
• Oregon Dog Rescue  

Test your aim at the water balloon throw, where you can take a shot at soaking the command staff in uniform for just $1 for four throws! Plus, every child will receive a free dog mask while supplies last. 

This event is not just about fun—it’s about giving back. Oregon Dog Rescue will bring dogs looking for their forever homes, and My Father’s House will be collecting non-perishable donations to help families in need (bring a donation and receive extra water balloon throws). 

Whether you’re there for the demos, the comfort dogs, or just to enjoy some great food, the Dog Days of Summer is sure to be a day to remember. Bring your leashed, friendly, well-mannered dogs and join us for a tail-wagging good time!  

About Gresham: 

Gresham is a welcoming community of hard-working people where tradition meets opportunity in Oregon's fourth largest city. Gresham’s residents care deeply about our roots and are committed to building a vibrant future. Today, Gresham is a dynamic, innovative, and rapidly growing city with a desire to thrive. To learn more, visit www.GreshamOregon.gov or visit us on Twitter at @CityofGresham. 

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Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Treasurer Alishia Topper reminds residents that second installment 2024 property taxes are due Oct. 31. 

Tax statements will be mailed during the week of Sept.16. If taxpayers are expecting a mailed statement and don’t receive one or have questions, they should visit www.clark.wa.gov/treasurer or contact the Treasurer’s Office at 564.397.2252 for a duplicate statement.

“Tax statements are mailed to property owners who do not pay through an escrow company. If a homeowner has paid off their mortgage and does not receive a statement, they should contact our office,” Topper said. 

The Treasurer’s Office is recommending taxpayers pay by mail or online. If in-person service is needed, the Treasurer’s Office is open Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm. The Treasurer’s Office is located in the second-floor Joint Lobby in the Public Service Center at 1300 Franklin St. A drop box for payments by check is located in the first floor lobby of the Public Service Center.

Topper will open a convenient drive-through drop-off location at the ground floor of the Public Service Center parking structure on Wednesday, Oct. 30, and Thursday, Oct 31. 

Taxpayers may pay property taxes online from their checking or savings account or using a credit or debit card. Payments from electronic checking and savings accounts are free, while debit card payments incur a $3.95 vendor fee, and credit card payments are assessed a 2.39% vendor fee. Debit and credit card fees apply to payments processed in-person or online.

To make a payment, go to www.clark.wa.gov/treasurer/payment-options, or call 1.833.440.8685. To register to receive your tax statement electronically and manage your property taxes online, go to https://www.paydici.com/clark-county-wa/search/landing.

Payment transactions must be postmarked by midnight, Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024, to avoid interest charges.

Tax payments can be mailed to the Clark County Treasurer at PO Box 35150, Seattle, WA 98124-5150. Taxpayers are encouraged to use the return envelope and payment coupon provided with their statement to mail their payments.

Press Log

The September Tualatin Valley Water District (TVWD) Board Meeting will be held Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. 

If you wish to attend this meeting remotely or in person, please email sam.kaufmann@tvwd.org or call 503-848-3094 by 4:30 p.m. on September 18, 2024.

The Board meeting agenda and packet and additional information regarding TVWD are available here.

About TVWD 

TVWD serves about 61,000 customers in parts of Washington County, Oregon. Our service area covers more than 41 square miles including portions of Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard and unincorporated Washington County.

TVWD is the managing agency for the Willamette Water Supply System (WWSS), an additional water supply for the region which is being constructed in partnership with the City of Hillsboro and the City of Beaverton. The WWSS includes intake facilities, over 30 miles of pipes, a water treatment plant and two storage reservoirs. The system will deliver fresh, high-quality, treated water from the Willamette River to 400,000 Washington County residents and businesses, and is being built to the highest seismic safety standard to recover quickly after a major earthquake. The investments in the system will provide reliable, quality drinking water for generations to come.

On September 11^th, 2024, at 4:42 AM, Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) patrol deputies responded to a report of a Restraining Order Violation in progress near the 4800 block of NE 49^th St.  The victim of the RO Violation reported a family member named Blake Reed (33), was armed inside his residence. Earlier that morning, family members observed Reed inside the residence in possession of a rifle taken from within the home. 

Responding deputies watched Reed attempt to leave the residence in a pickup truck and conducted a high-risk traffic stop, utilizing de-escalation tactics to safely place him under arrest. 

Investigators determined that Reed was a previous resident of the home but is currently prohibited from within 250 feet of it. Deputies transported Reed to the Clark County Jail and booked him for Residential Burglary and Violation of Protection Order. Family members retrieved the rifle and provided it to deputies on the scene.

Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency (CRESA) alerted deputies that the pickup Reed had attempted to flee in belonged to a female gunshot victim currently receiving treatment at a local hospital.  

The CCSO Major Crimes Unit determined that the female victim was in a dating relationship with Reed.  She described being asleep in her pickup truck when she was shot in the face through the driver’s window. The bullet penetrated her cheek and lodged in her jaw. The female received medical treatment and is expected to survive.

Detectives secured a search warrant for the pickup truck and the exterior scene. While examining the scene, detectives observed evidence that the female victim had been seated in the driver’s seat of the pickup while parked at the residence when she was shot through the driver’s side window.

Detectives also obtained private video surveillance of the incident, which showed Reed exiting the residence at 3:05 AM on 9/11/24, firing a single gunshot, and then returning inside the residence, all within seconds and with no verbal communication or confrontation occurring. Reed did not attempt to render aid to the victim or call for assistance.

Based on statements, physical evidence, and video evidence gathered, detectives determined Blake Reed intentionally and, with premeditation, discharged a .22 caliber rifle toward the female victim’s head.

On September 12^th, 2024, the Clark County Prosecutor’s Office amended criminal charges against Reed to Attempted Murder in the First Degree, Burglary in the First Degree, and Theft of a Firearm.

The investigation is active and ongoing.

September 12, 2024

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that Arvoni Hayes, 23, was arraigned on charges of Murder in the Second Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Possession of a Loaded Firearm in a Public Place in relation to the shooting death of Aaron McInnis in the Rose City Park neighborhood in July 2024.

Deputy District Attorney Brad Kalbaugh presented this to a Grand Jury, which returned a true bill upon consideration of the evidence. A warrant for Hayes' arrest was issued, and on September 11, 2024, he was taken into custody without incident by US Marshals. Today, Hayes was arraigned and entered a not guilty plea in front of Judge Russell. 

Please note that an indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and Hayes is innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. 

#MCDA#

September 12, 2024

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that Adam Jamal Burns, 30, was sentenced by a Multnomah County Circuit Court judge to 23 years in prison in relation to the April 2023 domestic violence homicide of April Newcombe Cripe in inner-East Portland. 

Case Facts

On April 15, 2023, Portland Police Bureau responded to the area of 5001 SE 30th Avenue near Reed College in regards to a deceased female who was found shot to death in front of a unit at the Wimbledon Square Apartments. The victim was identified as April Newcombe Cripe, who lived at the complex with her children. In the aftermath of the shooting, her two young children were located safe inside the apartment by law enforcement. 

The subsequent investigation led law enforcement to Burns, the victim’s husband and the father of her two children. The victim had expressed concerns about Burns killing her or having her killed, and he had been seen in his vehicle around the apartments in the days preceding the murder. A vehicle matching one owned by Burns was seen on the complex’s video surveillance minutes before police were called. The gun involved in the shooting was recovered and linked to Burns.

Plea and Sentencing

Senior Deputy District Attorney Robin Skarstad, Senior Deputy District Attorney Kevin Demer, and Deputy District Attorney Alex Hargrove represented the state in this case. On August 22, 2024, Burns entered guilty pleas before the Honorable Judge Jenna Plank and was today sentenced by Judge Plank to 23 years. He has been transferred into the custody of the Oregon Department of Corrections, where he will remain for the duration of his sentence.

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the impact that this homicide has had on the children, family, and friends of the victim. We appreciate all who contributed to the resolution of this case, with a special acknowledgement of PPB detectives Jennifer Hertzler and Joseph Corona, MCDA investigators Melinda Franklin, Matthew Estes, and Heather Hughes and MCDA victim advocate Alie Aguilera for their dedicated work.

#MCDA#

EUGENE, Ore.—A Portland, Oregon man with prior convictions for narcotics, firearms, and interstate prostitution was sentenced to federal prison today for possessing methamphetamine after he was caught by federal law enforcement, while on supervised release, with narcotics and a firearm.

Anthony Ballard Jones, 42, was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release. 

“Every day the FBI works tirelessly to build strong cases to remove violent individuals like Anthony Jones from our communities,” said Douglas A. Olson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. “We appreciate the work of the U.S. Attorney's Office in pursuing justice in this case.”

According to court documents, in January 2022, FBI received reports from a concerned citizen that Jones, on federal supervised release from a prior conviction, was sending threatening text messages to individuals. During the investigation, FBI received reports from another concerned citizen that Jones was engaged in illegal activities. At the same time, Jones had fled federal supervision and the U.S. Probation Office in Oregon was rendered unable to track his whereabouts or monitor his conduct. 

On March 23, 2022, FBI special agents arrested Jones in Portland, Oregon. A firearm and multiple bags were seized from Jones’ vehicle. Later, investigators searched the bags and found ammunition, a knife, drug packaging materials and paraphernalia, and distribution quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl, as well as cocaine and heroin.

On April 21, 2022, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a three-count indictment charging Jones with possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On September 12, 2024, Jones pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. 

This case was investigated by the FBI. It was prosecuted by William M. McLaren and Jeffrey S. Sweet, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

# # #

DALLAS (OR) – Douglas Wayne Gamble, 58, was sentenced today to serve 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to 21 counts of theft and aggravated theft involving 19 customers of a jewelry store he operated in West Salem. Gamble also plead guilty to one count of criminal mistreatment in the first degree and aggravated theft involving the stealing of money from a family member. 

Gamble, of Portland, appeared before Polk County Circuit Judge Rafael A. Caso, who pronounced the sentence after Gamble had previously entered pleas of guilty to 14 counts of Aggravated Theft in the First Degree, six counts of Theft in the First Degree, two counts of Theft in the Second Degree, and one count of Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree. After he is released from prison, Gamble will be required to serve a three year term of post-prison supervision. The state dismissed six counts of Aggravated Theft in the First Degree pursuant to the plea agreement. Gamble will also be required to pay restitution to all the victims in all the charges. It is estimated that the restitution to be sought on behalf of the victims will exceed $500,000.

Gamble owned and operated Timeless Jewelers, located at 1105 Edgewater Street NW, in West Salem. Between 2018 and 2022, Gamble engaged in numerous schemes to outright steal or otherwise defraud his victims of precious jewelry, watches, and cash. In several cases the victims were over 65 years of age and lost family heirlooms. In a separate case, Gamble was prosecuted for depleting an elderly family member’s savings of approximately $380,000.

The case was investigated by the Salem Police Department. It was prosecuted by District Attorney Aaron Felton and Deputy District Attorney Connor Amundson of the Polk County District Attorney’s Office.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Thursday, September 12 

Hillsboro, OR| In an effort to empower the community and promote civic engagement, Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center, in partnership with Washington County’s Election Division, will be hosting a Voter Education Night on Monday, September 16 from 5PM to 7PM at the Hillsboro Brookwood Library.  

This event aims to provide Washington County residents with clear, accessible information about the voting process. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the election process, gain insights on how to effectively participate in the democratic process, and register to vote in preparation for the upcoming General Election in November. Whether you’re a first-time voter or a seasoned voter, this event is designed to empower you with the knowledge you need to participate confidently this election cycle.  

“Empowering those in the community to take part in the decisions happening around them is an important part of our mission at Virginia Garcia” said Virginia Garcia CEO Gil Muñoz. “Virginia Garcia is founded in advocacy and it is a critical part of what we do. Both Virginia Garcia and Washington County’s Elections Division are committed to ensuring all eligible voters are informed and ready to make their voices heard by casting their ballots confidently.”

About Virginia Garcia: Established in 1975, Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center provides healthcare services to 52,000 patients a year in Washington and Yamhill counties in six primary care clinics and pharmacies, six dental clinics, a reproductive health clinic, and five school-based health centers. The mission of the organization is to provide high quality primary care to migrant and seasonal farm workers and those with barriers to care.  

About Washington County’s Elections Division: The Elections Division administers all Federal, State, and local elections in Washington County. The Elections Division manages voter registration records for over 385,000 voters, working continuously to ensure that the voter registration rolls are up to date. Washington County Elections is committed to helping you better understand how the elections process works at the county level. Those who are interested in learning more are encouraged to reach out to the county’s elections division to schedule a tour of the facility or for any questions you may have. Election-related resources can be found at WashCoVotes.org. 

On September 10^th, 2024, at about 7:17 a.m. the Oregon City Police Department arrested 26-year-old Cody Allen Hinze for the crimes of luring a minor, purchasing sex with a minor, and online sexual corruption of a child in the 1^st degree. 

The arrest of Mr. Hinze was the result of an investigation, which started in August.  During an undercover chat, Mr. Hinze solicited what he believed to be a 15-year-old minor female to meet up with him with the intention of engaging in sexual acts.  

Mr. Hinze was lodged on the charges at the Clackamas County Jail. 

The Oregon City Police Department is concerned there could be additional victims of Mr. Hinze.  Anyone with additional information about him is encouraged to call the Oregon City Police Tip Line at 503-905-3505 and reference case number 24-018716. 

On September 11, 2024 Yamhill County Sheriff's Office served a search warrant at a rural property in the 17000 block of NE Albert Way outside Newberg. The warrant was authorized to collect evidence related to the unlawful manufacture and possession of marijuana. The property to be searched was found to have no licensing through any of the regulatory agencies to be producing or processing cannabis.

Seven individuals were found at the property, which is a former equestrian facility. The arena had been converted into individual grow rooms and living quarters. There were also outdoor greenhouse type structures on the property where marijuana was being grown.

1608 growing marijuana plants were eradicated, and 260 pounds of processed marijuana was seized. A butane hash oil lab was found on the property, and specially trained personnel from the Oregon State Police NW Region Marijuana Team responded to safely dismantle the lab. Marijuana extracts were located inside the residence.

Photos and videos were taken to document the improper storage and application of hazardous chemicals within the grow site.

As with many of these illegal grow sites, the only motivation is pure profit, and the individuals who are either recruited, enticed, or coerced into working at the sites are not afforded the same workplace protections that are required of legal employers and marijuana production businesses, such as workman's compensation insurance, protective equipment, paid leave, and overtime compensation.

The following individuals were arrested for the listed charges related to this case:

Feliciano Calderon Garcia, age 41 from Hillsboro, OR, -Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana Item, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana

Maria Castaneda, age 24, from Hillsboro, OR - Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana Item, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana

Bertola Alvarez Castaneda, age 37, from Hillsboro, OR - Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana Item, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana

Santiago Calderon Garcia, age 57, from Hillsboro, OR - Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana Item, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana

Anahi Calderon Alvarez, age 19, no residence given - Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana Item, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana

Maria Antonia Alvarez Castaneda, age 32, from Newberg, OR - Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana Item, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana

DoYoung Moon, age 60, from Newberg, OR - Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana Item, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana

The public is invited to a day of excitement and activities to celebrate the Woodland community’s new library on Saturday, October 12. The celebration begins at 10 am with a ribbon cutting ceremony, followed by tours of the library, activities for all ages, musical entertainment, and refreshments. From swing band music to face painting, there will be something for everyone.

The new 7,560 square-foot Woodland Community Library provides the community with large and small rooms for meetings and study, separate areas for children, teens, and adults, public computers and spaces to use personal laptops and devices, comfortable seating indoors and outdoors, and an enhanced collection of library materials.

In addition to the investment by FVRLibraries, this library is made possible by the generosity of the Friends of Woodland Community Library, Fort Vancouver Regional Library Foundation, the taxpayers of Washington State, and the many donors who supported this vision over the years.

The current Woodland Community Library at 770 Park Street will close beginning on September 23 to accomplish the move to the new location.

PORTLAND, Ore. – This summer, Portland Community College campuses were abuzz as more than 70 high school teachers, administrators and counselors from three counties took part in paid educator externships. 

Developed through collaborations between PCC, the Portland Area Career Technical Education Consortium (PACTEC), Northwest Regional Education Service District and the Portland Metro STEM Partnership, the externships offered participants insights into high-demand career fields that they can share with their students. Teachers came from high schools in Washington, Multnomah and Columbia counties.

Eight externship opportunities were provided, allowing educators to explore fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, natural resource careers, bioscience, architecture/construction, civil engineering, forestry and multimedia/audio-visual technology. The goal of the program was to equip teachers with firsthand experience in career technical education (CTE) and STEM fields, ensuring they can guide students towards future career paths.

“These externships provide educators with insights they can take back to their classrooms,” said Naomi Brown, a career connected learning navigator at PCC. “They’re able to give students a clearer understanding of what careers in these fields actually entail and how to prepare for them.”

One example was the Geographical Information Systems (GIS) externship at the Sylvania Campus in Southwest Portland. Teachers and counselors were introduced to geospatial technologies, including remote sensing and surveying. They explored PCC’s GIS Program, which offers project-based, collaborative learning opportunities focused on in-field applications. With a projected 34% increase in job opportunities for GIS-skilled workers in the Portland area by 2027, this externship gave educators a clear sense of the career opportunities awaiting their students.

These externships aren’t just limited to learning technical skills. Educators also built valuable connections with industry partners, enhancing their professional networks and deepening their understanding of the career landscape. Brown emphasized the long-term benefits, noting that teachers now have the language and knowledge to guide students more effectively. 

At the manufacturing externship, PCC’s College and Career Prep team welcomed teachers, administrators and counselors from Washington County to PCC’s Willow Creek Opportunity Center. They learned about career-development classes available at no cost, focusing on advanced manufacturing and semiconductor technologies. 

Educators also delved into the Microelectronics Technology Program at the Rock Creek Campus, discovering its requirements and learning what makes an ideal student candidate. To give them a hands-on feel, instructors from the Quick Start class demonstrated how vacuum force affects objects, such as marshmallows and balloons. 

Additionally, participants explored electrical circuits with the Semiconductor Essentials Training Program, engaging in an interactive activity to create a mini-circuit that lights up LEDs at the push of a button.

Brown added that these externships, which she plans to schedule again next year, are crucial for educators from Columbia, Washington and Multnomah counties, providing them with insights that will enrich their teaching. 

“By attending the externships, they return to their schools more aware and equipped to shape their curriculums with real-world applications,” she said.

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 50,000 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/

CLATSOP COUNTY, Oregon— Saddle Mountain State Natural Area near Seaside will close Oct. 14-18 for a hazard tree removal and tree thinning project to support public safety and forest health. 

The work will take place throughout the park, including along the main roadway, prompting a park closure to maintain public safety. Both the Grindy Creek (lower) and Lewis & Clark (upper) gates on Saddle Mountain Road will be locked.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) rangers and instructors will perform the work as part of an OPRD training for rangers who want to expand their skills. 

The park might reopen as early as Friday, Oct. 18. Please check the park webpage for updates. We thank visitors for their patience as we work to train our rangers and improve forest health at Saddle Mountain State Natural Area.

Salem – In 2025, Oregon employers, on average, will pay less for workers’ compensation coverage, the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) announced today. The decline in costs marks 12 years of average decreases in the pure premium rate – the base rate insurers use to determine how much employers must pay for medical costs and lost wages. 

Underpinning the cost decreases is the success of Oregon’s workers’ compensation system, which includes programs to control costs, maintain good worker benefits, ensure employers carry insurance for their workers, resolve disputes, and improve workplace safety and health.

The numbers illustrate positive, long-term trends, including:

• Employers, on average, would pay 91 cents per $100 of payroll for workers’ compensation costs in 2025, down from 93 cents in 2024, under a proposal by DCBS. That figure is referred to as loaded pure premium and covers workers’ compensation claims costs, assessments, and insurer profit and expenses.
• The pure premium rate would drop by an average 3.2 percent under the proposal. In fact, the pure premium will have declined by 48 percent from 2016 to 2025.

The reduction in costs is due to an improvement in loss experience in Oregon, according to the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI). NCCI is the U.S. rate-setting organization whose recommendation DCBS reviews as part of its annual public process to decide rates.

Employers’ total cost for workers’ compensation insurance includes the pure premium and insurer profit and expenses, plus the premium assessment. Employers also pay at least half of the Workers’ Benefit Fund assessment, which is a cents-per-hour-worked rate.

The decrease in the pure premium of 3.2 percent is an average, so an individual employer may see a larger or smaller decrease, no change, or even an increase, depending on the employer’s own industry, claims experience, and payroll. Also, the pure premium does not consider the varying expenses and profit of insurers or individual policyholders’ experience modification, if eligible. 

The stability of Oregon’s workers’ compensation system helps sustain the trend in lower costs. The system includes the Workers’ Compensation Division; Oregon OSHA; the Workers’ Compensation Board, which resolves disputes over the state’s workers’ compensation and workplace safety laws; the Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers, an independent advocate for workers on workers’ compensation and workplace safety and health; and the Small Business Ombudsman, an independent advocate for small business owners on workers’ compensation.

The premium assessment funds those successful programs. 

The premium assessment, which is a percentage of the workers’ compensation insurance premium employers pay, is added to the premium. It would remain at 9.8 percent in 2025, the same as 2024, under the DCBS proposal. In fact, 2025 would mark the fourth straight year the premium assessment remained at 9.8 percent.

“In light of rising costs everywhere, we are glad to provide employers and workers some relief through our proposed decisions today and the continued strength of our workers’ compensation system,” said Andrew Stolfi, DCBS director and insurance commissioner. “Working to prevent injuries, provide comprehensive benefits to injured workers, and keep costs low for employers is imperative for us to maintain a healthy and robust system.”

Meanwhile, the Workers’ Benefit Fund assessment funds return-to-work programs, provides increased benefits over time for workers who are permanently and totally disabled, and gives benefits to families of workers who die from workplace injuries or diseases. 

The fund’s revenue comes from a cents-per-hour-worked assessment. The assessment would remain at 2.0 cents per hour worked in 2025. It is the lowest rate since the inception of the cents-per-hour assessment in 1996.

The decrease in the pure premium will be effective Jan. 1, 2025, but employers will see the changes when they renew their policies in 2025.

Oregon’s workers’ compensation premium rates have ranked low nationally for many years. Oregon had the 10th least expensive rates in 2022, according to a nationally recognized biennial study conducted by DCBS. 

The public hearings for the workers’ compensation assessment and the Workers’ Benefit Fund assessment are Thursday, Sept. 19, at 3 p.m. and 4 p.m., respectively.

Written testimony will be accepted through 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024, by the Director's Office of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, 350 Winter St. NE, P.O. Box 14480, Salem, OR 97309-0405.

The following cost chart summarizes the changes: https://www.oregon.gov/DCBS/reports/cost/Documents/wc-summary.pdf

More information about Oregon workers’ compensation costs is at https://www.oregon.gov/DCBS/cost/Pages/index.aspx

The loaded pure premium includes insurer costs, known as expense loading factors. Historic figures are adjusted to reflect the 2024 mix of employment and payroll.

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About Oregon DCBS: The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. The department administers state laws and rules to protect consumers and workers in the areas of workers’ compensation, occupational safety and health, financial services, insurance, and building codes. Visit dcbs.oregon.gov.

VANCOUVER, Wash. – The School of Engineering and Computer Science at WSU Vancouver is hosting a free seminar, Women in Tech, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 26 in Firstenburg Student Commons. Register from the events calendar at vancouver.wsu.edu/events. 

Women considering a STEM career are invited to hear from women engineers and programmers currently working at local companies, including HP and TSMC Washington, as they discuss how to break into tech.

A networking opportunity follows the discussion. WSU alumni and local professionals are invited to attend to meet students and other professionals. Male allies are also welcome.

For more information, contact Mary Beth Bulger, y.bulger@wsu.edu">mary.bulger@wsu.edu.

About WSU Vancouver

WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave. in Vancouver, east of the 134^th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205, or via C-TRAN bus service. Find a campus map at vancouver.wsu.edu/map. Parking is available at meters and in the Blue Daily Pay lot for $2 after 5 p.m.

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

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

# # #

NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
 

September is National Preparedness Month and a great reminder to prepare for the unexpected. Disasters and emergencies can strike anytime; sometimes leaving our communities without adequate aid for hours, days, or even weeks. Take time this month to review your emergency plans and supplies. 

Due to potential local wildfires, storms, floods, or landslides it is recommended that all Oregonians be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least two weeks. For coastal residents, like Lincoln County, it is recommended to be “4 Weeks Cascadia Ready” in preparation for a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake. This means your household has enough food, water, medical supplies, sanitation supplies, and other life-sustaining resources to meet your needs for at least four weeks. In a major disaster such as a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake, supply chain, responders, and transportation would be disrupted. Our communities need to be prepared to take care of each other until assistance is available. 
 

Be Informed

• Know about possible hazards that can occur where you live.
• Be familiar with local evacuation routes.
• Sign up for local emergency alerts through Lincoln Alerts.

Make an Emergency Plan

• Talk with family and friends about what to do, including if you’re not together during an emergency.
• Practice your plan at different times and on different days. What will you do if you are at home, work, school, or at another location?
• Plan to check on your neighbors or vulnerable community members and offer assistance if possible.

Build an Emergency Kit

• Create an emergency kit or update your existing one.
• Some supplies include:
  • at least 4 weeks supply of food and water for each person and any pets. Remember to include water for drinking, sanitation, and preparing meals if needed.
  • battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
  • flashlight
  • first aid kit
  • extra batteries
  • whistle (to signal for help)
  • dust mask (to help filter contaminated air) and face coverings
  • plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
  • moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
  • wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
  • manual can opener (for food)
  • local maps
  • cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

 More preparedness information and resources: 

• Lincoln County Emergency Management – Plan and Prepare Resources
• Be Ready – Make a Plan
• Be Ready – Build a Kit
• CDC – Emergency Preparedness and Response
• Red Cross – How to Prepare for Emergencies
• Oregon Emergency Management – 2 Weeks Ready

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

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To celebrate Oregon Community Bank Week, Pioneer Trust Bank in Salem is hosting a Community Shred Event benefitting Marion Polk Food Share. The event will be held between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at the bank’s Medical Center Branch located at 1190 Oak Street SE in Salem.

Pioneer Trust Bank invites community members to “Shred & Bank Responsibly” by dropping off their food donations, including pet food, and their paper documents to be securely destroyed and recycled by an onsite mobile shredding truck. Refundable cans and bottles are also accepted as donations to The Salem Foundation. There is a 10-box limit on documents, but food donations are unlimited. 

For more information, visit www.pioneertrustbank.com or contact Betsy Steinberg at (503) 363-3136.

About the Community Banks of Oregon

Community Banks of Oregon (CBO) serves banks headquartered in Oregon. The principal mission of CBO is to support and promote community banking in Oregon. CBO advocates for community banks, provides a forum to address issues unique to community banks, and promotes community banks through initiatives like Oregon Community Bank Week. For more information, please visit www.oregonbankers.com/local.  

Cascadia Health Announces Annual “Culture of Caring” Gala

Celebrating and encouraging support and awareness for whole health, housing, and community.

Portland, Ore. – The 8^th annual Culture of Caring Gala—a benefit event supporting Cascadia Health’s vision of integrated mental health, addiction recovery, primary care, housing, and wellness—will be held October 10, 2024. Cascadia invites community members to register and attend this night of celebration and giving, showing how, together, our light guides waves of change.

“Whole health is achievable,” said Derald Walker, PhD, President and CEO of Cascadia Health. “We see the need in our community, and we desire solutions that save lives. Cascadia has been part of the solution, providing over 18,000 individuals and families with life-saving medical, mental health, and addiction treatment, crisis intervention, and housing support over the past year alone. But it takes all of us to truly create lasting change.”

The gala will recognize contributions to health, housing, and community through its Culture of Caring Health & Housing Award, Civic Engagement Award, and Arts & Social Justice Award. This year’s honorees include:

• Laquida “Q” Landford (Health & Housing), for leadership of AfroVillage PDX
• Judge Nan Waller, JD (Civic Engagement), for leadership of Multnomah County’s Mental Health Court
• Alex Chiu (Arts & Social Justice), a painter and muralist whose efforts seek to help communities process cultural identity through a creative process

The gala will feature live music and art, as well as the stories and voices of clients and staff, demonstrating the impact Cascadia Health services have on the lives of individuals and highlighting the incredible impact of community support.

Live music will be presented by Jimmie Herrod, renowned vocalist celebrated for his standout performance on “America’s Got Talent,” as well as headlining major venues and touring with Pink Martini. A live art exhibit will be presented by Monica Rose Kelly, an analog and digital artist who performed at the 2023 Portland Winter Lights Festival.

For more information and to register, visit www.cascadiahealth.org/gala2024. 

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About Cascadia Health

Rooted in community behavioral health, today, Cascadia Health provides integrated Whole Health to over 18,000 individuals and families across the Portland-metro region each year, including mental health, addiction treatment, primary care, housing, crisis intervention, peer services, wellness supports, and more.

Portland, OR — Visitors of all ages are invited to a free Community Day program at the Oregon Historical Society on Saturday, September 14, highlighting the current exhibition, A Fountain of Creativity: Oregon’s 20th Century Artists and the Legacy of Arlene Schnitzer.

Presented in partnership with the Independent Publishing Resource Center (IPRC), this program will feature book-making demos and the opportunity for visitors to make their own pocket notebooks to capture their thoughts about the works of arts on display in the exhibition. Participants will come away with an understanding of the tools required for softcover bookbinding and will have the opportunity to learn how to create a softcover book with a pamphlet stitch, a folded zine, and the option to create saddle-stapled notebooks. 

This workshop is presented by Harper Quinn, part of the staff leadership collective at the IPRC. She works in collage and print and is the author of Coolth, a full-length collection of poetry, as well as the chapbooks Unnaysayer and Thrownness, a collaboration with artist Jillian Barthold. 

This is a family-friendly activity appropriate for a range of ages and abilities that will be available from noon to 4pm. Admission to OHS is free all Saturday; museum hours are 10am to 5pm. 

This community program was designed to give visitors an opportunity to have a tactile experience with art while also considering the history of art and artists in Portland that is explored in A Fountain of Creativity. During the early twentieth century, the arts community in Oregon was small, isolated, and offered few opportunities for artists to exhibit and sell their work. While the Portland community valued public engagement with arts and culture, local artists were isolated from the wider national art community due to a lack of commercial gallery space to show and sell their work.

Decades later in 1961, Arlene Schnitzer, along with her mother Helen Director and friend Edna Brigham, started the Fountain Gallery. The commercial art gallery, named after its location near the Skidmore Fountain, became a hub for Pacific Northwest modern artists and helped raise the status of the Portland art scene.

Arlene Schnitzer was quoted as saying “a city without an art community has no soul.” Honoring her legacy and influence on the history of Portland, A Fountain of Creativity features a range of bold, evocative, and influential works created by Pacific Northwest artists from the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation — many on public display for the first time. 

The first part of this two-part exhibition will run through January 2, 2025, and features artworks from 1915 into the early 1960s with cultural and historical context on the Pacific Northwest arts scene prior to the opening of the Fountain Gallery in 1961. The second part, on view from November 1, 2024, through May 4, 2025, will highlight many of the artists who worked closely with Arlene Schnitzer throughout the Fountain Gallery’s 25 years supporting the local arts scene.

“Art gives you a different perspective on history,” says OHS Curator of Exhibitions Megan Lallier-Barron, “People’s lived experiences at a point in time are captured and preserved in art and allow us a means for reflection and interpretation in the present.”

DOWNLOAD PRESS KIT: https://bit.ly/fountainofcreativity 

About the Oregon Historical Society

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

About the Independent Publishing Resource Center  

The IPRC is a community organization and print and publishing resource center that supports writers and artists by providing educational opportunities and access to a shared studio space equipped with publishing tools and printmaking resources suited for the creation of short-run publications including zines, chapbooks, comics, art books, prints, posters, fliers, buttons, and other print ephemera. Its mission is to provide affordable access to space, tools, and resources for creating independently published media and artwork and to build community and identity through the creation of written and visual art.

About the Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation

Founded in 1997, the Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation collection, one of the most notable in North America, functions as a living archive to preserve art for future generations and share it with the public through groundbreaking exhibitions, publications, and programs. Today, the Foundation has organized over 160 exhibitions and has loaned thousands of works to over 120 museums, dramatically improving access to art, especially in underserved communities. 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works, Parks will repair and restripe portions of the parking lots at Hockinson Meadows Community Park and Pacific Community Park.

Partial parking lot closures will occur during the following times:

• Pacific Community Park: East parking lot closed 7 am Sunday, Sept. 15 to noon Monday, Sept. 16.
• Hockinson Meadows Community Park: North parking lot closed noon Sunday, Sept. 15 to 5 pm Monday, Sept. 16.

Visitors to the parks may encounter inconveniences during construction. Visitors are reminded for their safety to stay out of work zones. Cars in the parking lots after the closures begin will be towed. 

Construction is weather dependent, and the schedule is subject to change. For more information, contact program coordinator Jacob Huston at .huston@clark.wa.gov">Jacob.huston@clark.wa.gov or 360.719.0756

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

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

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

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

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

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

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver will host four A – Z of Paying for College Workshops this fall. The workshop is a public service for all prospective and current college students, regardless of the college you choose to attend. 

Prospective students and guardians will learn how to make the cost of attending college manageable with grants, loans, savings, scholarships and work. Find out which money is free, which needs to be paid back, and learn about important forms and deadlines. Presenters will provide strategies and answer commonly asked questions about applying for financial aid and scholarships, including the kinds of scholarships available.

The one-hour workshops will be held at 5:30 p.m. as follows:

• Sept. 26 on Zoom
• Oct. 23 in Dengerink Administration Building, Room 129 on campus
• Nov. 21 on Zoom
• Dec. 17 in Dengerink Administration Building, Room 129 on campus

The workshops are free and open to the public. Register at vancouver.wsu.edu/a-z. Free parking in Orange 2 lot for in-person workshops. WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave. in Vancouver, east of the 134^th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205. Find a campus map at vancouver.wsu.edu/map. Visit vancouver.wsu.edu/events to get the Zoom link for online workshops. For event accessibility, contact the Access Center at 360-546-9739 or van.access.center@wsu.edu.

About WSU Vancouver

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

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

# # #

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) presents local authority on the odd, Jeff Davis. 

Weird Washington: Washington’s Local Legends and Best Kept Secrets will explore regional legends and Pacific Northwest oddities of Washington State. This special event is part of the History on Tap series at the Kiggins Theatre and will take place on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 7:00 pm, doors open at 6:00 pm.

Historian and author, Jeff Davis, guide the audience through Washington’s cryptids, supernatural occurrences, UFO sightings, and colorful characters. 

Before the main event, see if you can figure out which tidbits of history are true and which ones are fake in our segment, "One History and A Lie." Also, watch as contestants battle for the title of “King (or Queen) of Trivia” during Clark County Trivia.

Admission to History on Tap is free for CCHM Members and $5 in advance for the general public. Day of admission is $10 for the public. Purchase your tickets at the Kiggins Theatre Box Office or online at kigginstheatre.com.

The 2024 History on Tap season is presented by Vancouver’s Downtown Association. This month’s program is sponsored by Heritage Bank and Silver Keys Media. Program support provided by Versa Events. 

About the Clark County Historical Museum

The Clark County Historical Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to collecting, preserving, and interpreting the history of Clark County, Washington. The museum offers a variety of exhibits, programs, and events throughout the year. For more information, contact us at each@cchmuseum.org">outreach@cchmuseum.org, visit the museum’s website at cchmuseum.org, or call (360) 993-5679.

About Jeff Davis

Author of more than a dozen books on archaeology, history, and the paranormal, Jeff Davis is a resident of Vancouver, and has appeared on many paranormal media programs, including Ghost Adventures, The Dead Files, and Alaskan Killer Bigfoot. More information about Jeff can be found at: https://jeffdavisghostguy.com/

About History on Tap

History on Tap is a series of casual talks built on the premise that history didn’t end on some dusty date on the calendar but is a dynamic story where every person is an active participant. This amusing, informative, and interactive program returns for a sixth season of bringing together two of the world’s favorite things – history and beer – in one of Clark County’s most treasured venues, Kiggins Theatre.

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Press Log

The Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team (SWIIRT), led by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, is continuing the investigation of the Vancouver Police Department’s (VPD) officer-involved shooting (OIS) that occurred on June 17th, 2024, on NE Andresen Rd. in Vancouver, WA.

There are no changes or updates from last week. 

Per WAC 139-12-030, which governs independent investigations, additional updates will be provided weekly.

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

On September 9, 2023, at approximately 5:40 PM, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office responded to a motor vehicle crash at the intersection of McKay Road NE and Case Road NE near St. Paul.  The crash involved a Buick sedan and a refrigerated commercial box truck.  The initial investigation showed the Buick was traveling eastbound on McKay Road NE and the box truck was traveling westbound when the box truck left its lane and the two vehicles collided. The driver of the Buick, Lisa Rohrer-Boylan of Portland, was pronounced deceased at the scene.  The passenger of the Buick, Joan Rohrer of Portland, was transported to a Portland area hospital via LifeFlight where she was later pronounced deceased from her injuries.  The driver of the box truck, Porfirio Perez Martinez of Clackamas, was transported to Newberg Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

After nearly a year of investigation, the case was presented to the Marion County Grand Jury, and they indicted Porfirio Perez Martinez Criminal Negligent Homicide X2. He was arrested and lodged at the Marion County Jail on September 6^th, 2024. 

Thank you to the following agencies that assisted in this case: The Aurora Fire Department, St Paul Fire Department, LifeFlight, Hazmat, Marion County District’s Attorney’s Office, Marion County Medical Examiner’s Office, Marion County Public Works, METCOM 911, and Willamette Valley Communications Center. 

Institute celebrates its fifth year, and more than 700 new supportive housing units developed or planned.

SALEM, OR - Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) and the Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) today announced seven innovative affordable housing projects that emerged from the fifth Oregon Supportive Housing Institute (SHI). The new projects contribute to the more than 700 new permanent supportive housing units that have been developed or planned as a result of five years of the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute.

“Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) is a proven strategy to increase housing stability and improve the health of people who have experienced chronic homelessness,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “Housing and health are the foundations of everyday life that we all depend on, and OHCS has a responsibility to help make that possible for all people, regardless of what they have been through. The Supportive Housing Institute is five years into supporting the readiness of community leaders to deliver results that improve people’s lives and strengthen communities. We are prioritizing people in our efforts to strengthen Oregon.”

OHCS and CSH collaborate to operate the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute designed to accelerate affordable and supportive housing development locally. Teams in Oregon consisting of developers, property managers, service providers, people with lived experience, and other critical project partners, apply to participate and receive intensive training over five months on navigating the process of developing permanent supportive housing. CSH provides individualized technical assistance and support to plan each project.

“CSH joins OHCS in congratulating our newest cohort of Institute graduates. We are inspired by their commitment to advancing supportive housing as an evidence-based approach to helping people who face complex barriers to housing in Oregon find stability and thrive. This is not easy work, and we are proud of all our Institute alums over the past five years for leading with creativity and innovation that has lasting impacts across our communities," said Rae Trotta, Senior Program Manager at CSH.

The planned projects are:

• Bridges to Change, Portland – permanent supportive housing for people experiencing long-term homelessness and who are impacted by substance use disorders or mental health disorders, with a focus on individuals identifying as LGBTQ+.
• Home First, Manzanita – permanent supportive housing for families experiencing long-term homelessness.
• Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon, Portland – permanent supportive housing and supportive housing for families experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and substance abuse disorders.
• New Narrative, Beaverton – permanent supportive housing for people experiencing long-term homelessness, disabilities, and mental illness.
• Our Just Future, Portland – permanent supportive housing for people experiencing long-term homelessness, who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, and/or LGBTQ+, unsheltered veterans, families, and immigrants.
• Path Home, Portland – permanent supportive housing for families with children experiencing homelessness with a special focus on families identifying as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.
• Housing Authority of Washington County, Forest Grove – permanent supportive housing for people experiencing long-term homelessness.

“CSH gratefully thanks and acknowledges Oregon Housing and Community Services for their ongoing partnership and support of the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute. Their partnership has been integral to the Institute’s success and for making quality housing and services possible for hundreds of families and individuals in Oregon,” said Deborah De Santis, President and CEO at CSH.

To date, the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute has successfully graduated 43 teams who have opened 339 new PSH units with an additional 360 units currently in development. Watch this video to learn more about the impact of the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute. 

About Oregon Supportive Housing Institute 
The Oregon Supportive Housing Institute (SHI) is a signature initiative of Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) in collaboration with and support from Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS). Since its start in the state, 43 teams have participated in the Oregon SHI that has resulted in 339 new PSH units, with more than 360 PSH units in development. The Oregon SHI has had diverse statewide representation from every region in Oregon, including projects from Central Oregon (Bend and Warm Springs), Coastal Regions (Astoria, Coos Bay/North Bend, Manzanita, Toledo), Corvallis, Eastern Oregon (Ontario and Lakeview), Eugene, Portland and greater Portland Metro (Gladstone, Happy Valley, Newberg, Tualatin/Tigard), Salem, and Southern Oregon (Medford/Grants Pass, Roseburg). 

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) 
OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs. 

About Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH)
The Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) is the national champion for supportive housing, demonstrating its potential to improve the lives of very vulnerable individuals and families by helping communities create more than 385,000 real homes for people who desperately need them. CSH engages broader systems to fully invest in solutions that drive equity, help people thrive, and harness data to generate concrete and sustainable results. Visit us at www.csh.org.

Salem, Ore - Oregon’s Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Advisory Council will meet virtually, Wednesday, September 25, 2024. The online meeting will begin at 11:00 a.m. This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact Tamara Ottum (a.ottum@slo.oregon.gov">tamara.ottum@slo.oregon.gov, 971-375-3543).

The Council will use this time to conduct business and review grant reports. Questions or concerns can be addressed to Buzzy Nielsen (uzzy.nielsen@slo.oregon.gov">buzzy.nielsen@slo.oregon.gov, 971-375-3486).

Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested 48 hours before the meeting; notice 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in alternate formats 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to Tamara Ottum (a.ottum@slo.oregon.gov">tamara.ottum@slo.oregon.gov, 971-375-3543).

LSTA Advisory Council

Online

September 25, 2024, 11:00 a.m.

AGENDA 

11:00am          Welcome and Review Agenda

11:05am          Public Comment (Any person may address the Council on any topic for up to 3 minutes. The Council                              does not generally engage in dialog with those making comments but may refer any question or issue                            raised to the State Librarian.)

11:15am          General Business 

• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Review previous action items
• Elect new members, chair, and chair-elect

11:30am          Reports

• Members - what's going on in your representative area
• LSTA budget & spending
• Teen Internship Grants

12:30pm          Grants

• FY23 cycle: Final reports
• FY24 cycle: Awards
• FY25 cycle: Proposed changes to application

1:30pm            LSTA Five-Year Plan Assessment 

1:55pm            Wrap Up and Action Item Review 

2:00pm            Adjourn

Portland, Ore.— Today, Sept. 11, 2024, Portland City Council unanimously approved the Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) recommended portfolio for Request for Proposals (RFP) 3 of the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF), which consists of 71 grants totaling nearly $92 million.

PCEF received 230 proposals for projects in response to its third RFP, which was open from November 2023 through Feb. 15, 2024. 

RFP 3 portfolio grant funding categories

This third round of RFPs is part of the 2023 Climate Investment Plan (CIP). PCEF’s Community Responsive Grants program invests in nonprofit led projects that equitably address Portland’s climate action needs. RFP 3 marks the first community responsive grant funding opportunity under the CIP. As part of this initiative, PCEF staff recommended that City Council approve $91,916,334 to support 71 projects in the RFP 3 grant portfolio.

• Clean energy – 21 grants
• Transportation decarbonization – 14 grants
• Regenerative agriculture/Green infrastructure – 17 grants
• Workforce and contractor development – 10 grants
• Planning – 6 grants
• Other – 3 grants

Total requested funding authorization

The impact

Among the numerous testimonies given during the first hearing on Sept. 5, 2024, organizations spoke to the positive impact PCEF funding has created for climate justice work and the far-ranging community benefits. 

Workforce Development Manager for Oregon Tradeswomen Courtney Hamilton said that the many of their graduates from their pre-apprenticeship program have risen to leadership roles in their careers. “We have been breaking barriers for more than 25 years,” Hamilton said. “With the support of the PCEF fund, we will be able to continue breaking these barriers now and into the future.”

PCEF funding will also provide critical improvements in low-income, multifamily housing in Northeast Portland that will reduce energy costs, improve residents’ health and comfort, and increase the longevity of buildings to reduce displacement. “That’s real money in the pockets of low-income households that they can use for necessities such as groceries, childcare, and health care,” said Margaret Salazar, CEO of Reach Community Development. The impacts of PCEF funds are really about the long view, she explained. Making critical improvements today allows their organization to be good stewards for tomorrow. 

Application review process and scoring criteria

The application review process included eligibility screening, technical review, and applicant vetting prior to applications moving to scoring panels and ultimately, the recommended portfolio. Applications were scored on criteria specific to their project type. Scoring criteria and information is publicly available online.

Scoring panels 

Applications that passed the screening for eligibility, technical feasibility, and applicant vetting were assigned to a scoring panel. Each panel consisted of three members, including PCEF Committee members, program staff, and/or subject matter experts, with efforts made to ensure diversity and gender balance. Applications needed to receive more than half of the available points to be considered for funding. A calculated GHG impact score was also factored into the overall application score.

Recommended portfolio development 

The recommended portfolio was developed based on a ranking of application scores, the allocations for each fund area, and the strength of proposals. All eligible applications submitted for funding can be viewed on the online portal.

About the City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability 

The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) oversees a world-renowned waste and recycling system and leads the country in its commitment to digital equity, open data, and protecting communities in the application of technologies. Staff collaborate with partners on neighborhood, economic, historic, and environmental planning and provide research, policy, and technical services to advance energy efficiency and renewable energy, as well as policies and actions to address climate change. The bureau also oversees the innovative Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF).

About the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund

The Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) initiative was passed by 65% of Portland voters in November 2018. It provides a consistent, long-term funding source and oversight structure to ensure that our community's climate action efforts are implemented to support social, economic and environmental benefits for all Portlanders, particularly communities of color and low-income residents. The initiative was supported by a broad coalition of groups and individuals and represents the first environmental initiative in Oregon led by communities of color.

Embargoed until Friday, September 13, 2024 at 10 a.m. 

The Oregon Department of Education (ODE), in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, will announce David Clauson as one of Oregon’s 18 2024-25 Regional Teachers of the Year! Clauson teaches at McMinnville High School’s Engineering and Aerospace Sciences Academy.  

Media are invited to the surprise announcement at McMinnville High School’s gymnasium on Friday, September 13, 2024 at 10 a.m., when Clauson will be honored at a brief school assembly. 

Every day in Oregon classrooms, teachers offer their innovation, energy and content mastery in support of students across the state. The Oregon Teacher of the Year Program recognizes and honors teacher excellence, with the state Teacher of the Year serving as the face and voice of exemplary educators across Oregon. Candidates for Oregon Teacher of the Year are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled licensed public school educators in grades pre-K-12. 

“Our student population is racially and socio-economically diverse and my students are uniquely focused on preparing for lives that will require consideration collaboration with others. I invest in building relationships with each of them, gleaning a better understanding of what brought them to my classroom,” Clauson wrote in his application. 

Regional Teachers of the Year are nominated by students, colleagues, administrators, friends or family members. Regional winners were identified through a local nomination, application and selection process facilitated by the 19 Education Service Districts around the state. Applicants submitted testimonials and letters of support and were assessed by a diverse panel of regional representatives on the attributes of leadership, instructional expertise, commitment to equity, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, vision and professional development. 

“Now more than ever, we need powerful educators like these,” said Director of the Oregon Department of Education Dr. Charlene Williams. “Each Regional Teacher of the Year has earned this recognition because they champion every student, uplifting and empowering them to achieve, to create, and to feel a sense of belonging not only in the classroom, but in the wider world, as well. Students and families in Oregon are fortunate to have teachers like these whose inspiring contributions create lasting impacts that ripple out into their communities and beyond.” 

Each Regional Teacher of the Year wins a $1,000 cash prize and is in the running for Oregon’s 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year – to be announced in October. 

Since 1995, when the Oregon Lottery began allocating revenue to public education, more than $10 billion has been transferred to school districts across the state. This past year, over $3.5 million of Oregon Lottery funding went to the McMinnville School District, and more than $10 million went to Yamhill County. 

“These exceptional teachers inspire and encourage students every day in classrooms across Oregon,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are proud to honor their contributions and vital role in making our communities stronger.”  

On Friday, September 20, 2024, once all 18 Regional Teachers of the Year are announced, the full list of statewide winners will be available on the Oregon Teacher of the Year website. 

Do you know an outstanding teacher? Please nominate them as the 2025-26 Oregon Teacher of the Year by visiting oregonteacheroftheyear.org. 

Shortly following the event, photos from the regional surprise announcement for Clauson will be available HERE.  

Thanks to the ODE's partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year will receive a $10,000 cash prize (with an additional $5,000 going to their school) and serves as a spokesperson and representative for all Oregon teachers. 

Funding will expand pathways for Multilingual Teacher Candidates in Oregon

Salem, Ore., September 10, 2024 — Chemeketa Community College, Oregon’s largest Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), has been awarded a five-year, $3,497,045 grant from the U.S. Department of Education under the National Professional Development Program (NPD). This funding will support Project ABLE (Accessible Pathways for Bilingual Leaders in Education), a transformative initiative designed to recruit, prepare, and retain bilingual and multilingual educators.

The project will provide 202 bilingual teacher candidates with the support needed to succeed through accessible pathways to licensure, including stacked certificates, apprentice pathways, and alternative onramps. Through partnerships with George Fox, Linfield, Oregon State, Pacific, Portland State, and Western Oregon University, this funding will extend support through transfer and enhance the program's reach and impact.

“This federal grant will allow Chemeketa to build upon a decade of work to grow the number of bilingual/multilingual teachers in our region,” said Jessica Howard, Ph.D., President and CEO of Chemeketa Community College. “Receiving this competitive award resonates deeply with our commitment to living up to our role as Oregon’s largest Hispanic-Serving Institution and supporting our local communities.”

Project ABLE aims to address the critical need for diverse educators by offering early on-ramps to educational careers, along with inclusive, proactive advising, and strategic financial support. The initiative will serve at least 202 students, focusing on first-generation and Pell Grant recipients, creating opportunities for students to thrive in the education sector.

Karla Hale, Director of Education at Chemeketa, expressed excitement about the program's potential, stating, “We are thrilled about the possibilities this federal grant provides for Chemeketa’s education students and to build on long-term efforts to diversify our K-12 educator workforce by increasing the number of bilingual and multilingual teachers in our region. This competitive award supports our enduring partnerships with local school districts and universities that will shape the next generation of educators representing our vibrant and diverse communities.”

The grant is part of the Biden-Harris Administration's broader efforts to increase access to high-quality education, particularly for underrepresented students. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona has highlighted the importance of multilingualism, calling it a "superpower" that benefits students both culturally and economically.

Through Project ABLE, Chemeketa’s Grow Your Own (GYO) Pre-Service Program will leverage its robust network of support to prepare candidates for teacher licensure, engage in critical research, and provide valuable insights into the role community colleges play in training the next generation of bilingual educators.

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For 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 multi-campus district in Oregon, Chemeketa serves 30,000 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. – Superior Court Adult Drug court will hold a 25-year anniversary celebration on Wednesday, Sept. 25 at Clark College Gaiser Hall located at 1933 Fort Vancouver Way.

The event, free and open to the public, consists of a buffet dinner beginning at 5 pm followed by a 6 pm presentation. Seating is limited. You must RSVP by Friday, Sept. 20. Submit your RSVP here or you can contact: shauna.mccloskey@clark.wa.gov / text or call: 360.605.3373.

The Clark County Adult Drug Court anniversary tribute coincides with National Recovery Month. Started in 1989, National Recovery Month is a national observance held every September to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices.

Adult Drug Court is a specialized sentencing alternative specifically designed to treat individuals suffering from substance use or co-occurring mental health disorders who are facing eligible felony criminal charges. This alternative to incarceration provides an opportunity for those enrolled in the program to live in the community and receive support and treatments services in a structured way. The program consists of a prescribed set of required treatment sessions, recovery support services and meetings, skill-building classes, random drug testing, office or home visits and frequent court hearings. Treatment courts are typically a minimum of a year or longer and studies have shown that these programs refer more people to treatment than any other interventions in the United States—people stay in treatment long enough to making lasting internal changes.

Clark County Superior Court Adult Drug Court has had 781 graduates successfully complete the program since its inception in 1999.

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Superintendent Evaluation Committee will meet at 2:00 p.m. on September 12, 2024. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/81685089853?pwd=OciprTP7UJ4j1hDUzBDbVia0YiUBbo.1
Passcode: 711781

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

Notice of Meeting Cancellation

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting scheduled for September 25th, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.
 

The next Applicant Review Committee meeting is scheduled for October 23rd, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.
 

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is asking visitors to help slow the spread of the destructive emerald ash borer by choosing certified heat-treated firewood or firewood harvested within 10 miles of their destination to avoid bringing the invasive insect into state parks. 

OPRD also asks visitors to leave any ash, olive and white fringe tree firewood and materials at home.

The invasive emerald ash borer is considered the most destructive forest pest in North America, killing hundreds of millions of ash trees across the country. It has been detected in four Oregon counties: Washington, Yamhill, Marion and Clackamas, prompting a permanent quarantine in those counties. 

“So far, emerald ash borer has not been detected in Oregon State Parks, and we would like to keep it that way for as long as possible,” said OPRD’s Natural Resource Coordinator and Ecologist Noel Bacheller. 

The invasive insect can only travel about 10 miles on its own during its brief adult life, but humans can spread it hundreds of miles through infested firewood and other tree materials. Once an ash tree is infested, it has little chance of survival even if it’s otherwise healthy. The insect’s larvae consume the inner bark, causing ash trees to decline and eventually die.

The emerald ash borer threatens to wipe out Oregon's ash tree population as it has in other states around the country. But visitors can help slow the spread to protect Oregon’s ash trees and forests for as long as possible. 

Slowing the spread will give parks and landowners the chance to respond including underplanting with resistant tree species that can quickly fill in when ash trees decline. It will also soften the impact of the insect on forest health overall.

Help protect Oregon's trees and forests by following these firewood tips:

• Buy firewood local to your campsite: Choose firewood harvested within 10 miles of your destination or buy certified heat-treated firewood. This helps reduce the spread of invasive insects, including emerald ash borer, and diseases.
• Avoid transporting restricted wood: Do not bring ash, olive, or white fringe tree materials into any Oregon State Park even if it’s within the same quarantine area. When in doubt about the tree species, leave it out.
• Stay informed about quarantines and regulations: Learn more at Oregon Department of Agriculture’s website, including proper disposal of ash tree material, and insect and tree identification at the Oregon Invasive Species Council website. 

Ash trees grow in riparian areas along rivers, streams and other low-elevation bodies of water in Western Oregon. The loss of ash trees could have a significant impact on riparian ecology including loss of shade, increased water temperatures and decline in fish health. 

Learn more about ash trees and the emerald ash borer on our website, including emerald ash borer activity pages with lessons for all ages that show how to recognize and prevent the spread of this invasive insect.

Washougal School District’s newest school board member, Jane Long, was sworn into service at the September 10, 2024 board work session.  WSD Interim Superintendent Aaron Hansen administered the oath of office. 

Long was selected to represent Director District #2 through the end of 2025 when she may run for election to a four-year term if she chooses.

Quote from Jane Long “I’m excited to be part of the board and to serve the community. Washougal has amazing teachers and excellent schools, and I want to use this position to continue to make sure our teachers and schools help every student succeed.”

Long has served as a class volunteer, ReadNW mentor, and been an active member of the boosters at the school her children attend. She has also served as a volunteer with local organizations serving youth. She brings professional experience working in human resources and budgeting.  

“We are excited to welcome Jane to the WSD Board of Directors,” said Hansen. “Her perspective as a current parent and volunteer with experience in our schools will be an incredible asset in serving the community as part of our school board.” 
 

Date: Wed, Sept 25th, 2024

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: https://www.scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_25_mushrooms/

The hidden role of fungi inside and all around us.

From beneficial yeasts that aid digestion to toxic molds that cause disease, we are constantly navigating a world filled with fungi. Our health and well-being depend on an immense ecosystem of yeasts and molds inside and all around us.

Come on a guided tour of a marvelously unseen realm, describing how our immune systems are engaged in continuous conversation with the teeming mycobiome inside the body, and how we can fall prey to serious and even life-threatening infections when this peaceful coexistence is disturbed. Our speaker also sheds light on our complicated relationship with fungi outside the body, from wild mushrooms and cultivated molds that have been staples of the human diet for millennia to the controversial experimentation with magic mushrooms in the treatment of depression.

Drawing on the latest advances in mycology, Molds, Mushrooms, and Medicines reveals what scientists are learning about the importance of fungi to our lives, from their vital role in supporting the ecosystems on which we depend to their emerging uses in lifesaving medicine.

Nicholas Money is a mycologist and professor at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.

Get 15% off the book and your ticket when you buy them together! 

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

Press Log

Linn County Sheriff’s Office was called at approximately 10:30am for a disturbance at Loves Truck Stop at 6457 Old Salem Road in Albany. The suspect assaulted an employee and reported they may have had a firearm. A few minutes later a black 2006 Jeep Liberty was stolen from a residence a short distance away in the 3000 block of Lauren Ave, Albany. 

Albany Police officers were able to locate the Jeep and attempted to stop the vehicle on Hwy 20/North Albany Rd. The suspect failed to comply and continued on Hwy 20 at normal speeds. The suspect eventually pulled over and then rammed a patrol vehicle and then continued west on Hwy 20.  A Benton County Sheriff Deputy was able to successfully deploy a tire deflation device at Hwy 20/Conifer but the vehicle continued on 4 flat tires. The suspect proceeded down a dirt driveway in the 2500 block of Hwy 20 and through fields until ultimately stopping as Albany Officers and a Benton County Sheriff’s Deputy pinned the vehicle to a stop. 

The driver exited the vehicle and then appeared to be overdosing and Narcan was administered. The suspect was taken to the Linn County Jail where they were eventually identified as Lucy Saure Diethylamide, age 23 of Portland, Oregon. They are being held on the following charges: 

• Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle
• Attempt to Elude Police Officer X2
• Possession of Stolen Vehicle
• Reckless Driving
• Reckless Endangering
• Fail to Perform Duties of a Driver X3
• Criminal Mischief I
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm

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On September 10, 2024 at around 1:40pm, Albany Police Officer Jim Estes was dispatched to a call of a male in the area of Fred Meyers stepping into traffic. Upon arrival the male was located near BJ’s Ice Cream Parlor at 2705 SE Pacific Blvd, Albany. During the initial interaction the subject attempted to punch the officer which he was able to deflect and an altercation ensued. Dispatch then lost radio contact with Officer Estes. We received a 911 call reporting an officer was being assaulted and back up units were enroute. Officer Estes was ultimately able to control the suspect and Timothy I. Ayoutt, age 32, was taken into custody. Ayoutt was treated and released at Albany General Hospital for a facial abrasion and was transported to the Linn County Jail. 

Ayoutt was charged with Assault on a Police Officer, Harassment and Disorderly Conduct II. Officer Estes was not treated for any injuries. 

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CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office is excited to announce an upcoming Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training course, designed to enhance local emergency preparedness and empower community members with critical skills.   

The CERT Training program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at addressing local hazards while providing participants with essential education and hands-on skills training. The course includes 12 hours of online coursework, followed by 16 hours of in-person training. 

Participants will benefit from the expertise of local professional responders, State-certified trainers, and knowledgeable volunteers who are subject matter experts. This robust training ensures that individuals of all abilities can gain valuable preparedness skills in a safe, positive, and inclusive environment. 

The CERT Training course emphasizes hands-on practice, enabling participants to gain practical experience while fostering a collaborative spirit. By joining this program, individuals not only contribute to their own preparedness but also to the overall safety and well-being of their communities. 

The course includes:

1. Disaster Preparedness 
2. CERT Organization 
3. Disaster Medical Operations – Part 1 
4. Disaster Medical Operations – Part 2 
5. Disaster Psychology 
6. Fire Safety and Utility Controls 
7. Light Search and Rescue Operations 
8. Terrorism and CERT 
9. Course Review and Disaster Simulation 

Benton County CERT Fall 2024 Schedule:

• October 10 (Thursday evening)
• October 25 (Friday evening)
• October 26 (Saturday, all day)
• October 27 (Sunday morning)

Interested individuals are encouraged to register early to secure their spot. Participants must be 18 years of age or older. If younger, participants may attend if accompanied by a parent/guardian. 

The 12-hr online training must be completed to attend classroom training beginning October 10. To register, go online to Benton County Oregon CERT training. 

For more details, please contact t@bentoncountyor.gov">cert@bentoncountyor.gov or leave a message at 541-766-6050.

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Bend Fire & Rescue responded to report of smoke off of Bear Creek Rd and Bennett. The first arriving crews could see smoke coming from a brush and tree’d area about 300 yards south of Bear Creek. After making access on foot, they were able to identify a 1/4 acre fire along the canal.

Alfalfa fire department responded as well to assist. A total of three brush engines, one structural engine, two water tenders and assorted command rigs are on scene. The fire appears to been caused by a lightning strike to a tree in the area. It appears to been smoldering and hidden by the layer of smoke in the area.

At the same time at this fire was being dispatched, Bend Fire & Rescue was dispatch to reported illegal open burn at Butler Market Rd and Silvis. Crews found the occupants burning yard debris in a large pile. The occupants were ordered to extinguish the fire and resources were diverted to the brushfire. Both of these incidents are a good reminder that we are not out of fire season yet. Despite the cooler weather heading our way it is still very dry out and susceptible to fire. All debris burning is banned currently. We do not anticipate debris burning for sometime. Check with your local fire agency before igniting any sort of fire to be sure it is allowed.

The Newberg-Dundee Police Department participated in enhanced traffic patrols in August through Labor Day weekend. The enforcement was focused to detect drivers operating vehicles while under the influence of intoxicants.  The effort resulted in eleven arrests for DUII during the targeted dates.

Funding for these extra patrols is made possible through grants and in partnership with the Oregon Department of Transportation.

A retail theft mission held in Tigard led to nearly two dozen arrests, as well as the recovery of stolen merchandise, a replica gun and methamphetamine.

This marks the first mission held in Washington County since the Washington County District Attorney’s office was awarded a $1.5 million dollar federal grant to combat retail theft, allowing for law enforcement and prosecutors to engage in more joint retail theft missions. During these missions, detectives and patrol officers work directly with loss prevention employees inside stores to identify and interrupt criminal activity as its happening.

Held Friday, September 6, 2024, Tigard Police officers and detectives with TPD’s Commercial Crimes Unit (CCU) worked with loss prevention employees at stores in Tigard. During the event:

• 21 people were arrested on a range of charges, including theft, possession of burglary tools, possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and several outstanding felony/misdemeanor arrest warrants
• Stolen merchandise worth roughly $1,700 was recovered
• A realistic looking replica handgun that officers learned was an air soft gun was recovered from a juvenile who was arrested
• One person led officers on a foot pursuit before being arrested

Officers also assisted with a suspicious package that turned out to be safe, and a reported strong-arm robbery that turned out to be a theft call during the mission.

We’d like to thank our partners at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Hillsboro Police, Beaverton Police and the Washington County DA’s Office for their support during the mission.

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HILLSBORO, Ore- On August 29, 2024, a Washington County jury found Patrick Mullane Miller guilty of sexual abuse in the first degree. On September 5, 2024, Judge Kathleen Proctor sentenced the defendant to 75 months in prison. He was also ordered to register as a sex offender and will be under post-prison supervision upon the completion of his sentence. Deputy District Attorney Christina Luedtke prosecuted this case.

On January 24, 2023, Tigard police responded to a call from a security guard. The guard reported that a woman flagged him down and told him she had just been sexually assaulted by the defendant. 

Police spoke with the woman and learned the defendant was giving her a ride home from an area bar when he unexpectedly pulled into a parking lot and demanded oral sex from her. She refused but the defendant threatened to kill her if she didn’t comply. The defendant then sexually assaulted her. The victim was eventually able to escape and ran to the security guard who was driving by at the time.  

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office wishes to commend the victim for her bravery shown throughout the legal process. This office also acknowledges the work of the Tigard Police Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Office on this case.

Mr. Miller will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to begin serving his sentence. 

Kelso, WA – Firefighters from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue, Longview Fire Dept., and Cowlitz County Fire District 5 (Kalama) responded to a structure fire Friday evening at 8:42 in the 300 block of Fish Pond Rd.  The homeowner reported that his shop was on fire, which had spread to the trees and a nearby shed full of firewood. 

Fire crews arrived and were concerned the home, 30 feet away, was about to ignite.  Firefighters cooled the exposed side of the house down with hose streams and then attacked the active fire in the trees, the garage, and the surrounding brush.  The fire was under control at 9:14. Six fire engines, four water tenders, three Chief Officers, and a medic unit responded to the two-alarm fire.  Cowlitz County Sheriff Deputies and Cowlitz County Public Utility District also responded.

All occupants of the home were able to evacuate; one elderly male suffered burns to his lower extremities but refused transport to the hospital by ambulance.  Two high-value classic cars parked in the garage were lost along with the building itself.  No other injuries were available.  The cause of the fire is under investigation. 

Marion County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to ORS163A.215, which authorizes Community Corrections to inform the public when the release of information will enhance public safety and protection.

The individual who appears on this notification has been convicted of a sex offense that requires registration with the Oregon State Police.  Additionally, this person’s criminal history places them in a classification level which reflects the potential to re-offend.  This notification is not intended to increase fear; rather, it is our belief that an informed public is a safer public.

NAME: Maldonado, Javier 

SID#: 10689342

DOB: 05/05/1974

CURRENT AGE: 050

RACE:  H                                SEX: M

HEIGHT: 5' 11''                     WEIGHT: 242lbs

HAIR: BLK                            EYES: BRO

RESIDENCE: 2145 STATE ST #2, SALEM, OR  97301

Javier  Maldonado is on Post Prison Supervision for the crimes of: WEAPON USE and ASSAULT IV. In 1994, Maldonado was convicted of RAPE III, and sentenced to 12 month jail and 24 months post prison supervision, which he completed in 1997. 

This person was granted supervision on: 05/07/2024

Supervision expiration date is: 05/06/2026 

Special restrictions include:       [X] No contact with minors   [X] No frequenting places minors congregate

PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal superseding indictment was unsealed Monday in the District of Oregon charging an Arizona man and three associates for conspiring with one another and others to devise and carry out a scheme that attempted to defraud the U.S. Small Business Administration out of at least $178 million in loans intended to help small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eric Karnezis, 43, of Sedona, Arizona, is charged in the 23-count superseding indictment with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, along with co-defendants Lynisha Wells, 47, and Nikkia Bennett, 43, both of Chula Vista, California, and Fredrico Williams, 48, of San Diego.

According to the superseding indictment, from January 2021 and continuing until at least March 2022, Karnezis carried out a scheme whereby he conspired with recruiters, including Williams, to gather fraudulent business information from customers, including Wells and Bennett, and used the information to submit fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). To facilitate the scheme, Karnezis and his co-conspirators created fictious documents to support their fraudulent loan applications, including false payroll information and tax documents.

In total, Karnezis submitted or caused to be submitted at least 1,300 PPP applications, which together attempted to obtain at least $178 million from SBA. Approximately $105 million in loans were funded in response to these fraudulent applications.

On September 6, 2024, following his arrest in Sedona the day prior, Karnezis made his initial appearance in federal court in the District of Arizona and pleaded not guilty. In a detention hearing held today, Karnezis was released on conditions pending his arraignment in District of Oregon on September 24, 2024.

Bennett and Wells made their first appearances and were arraigned in the District of Oregon on August 23 and August 29, 2024, respectively. Both were released on conditions pending a three-day jury trial scheduled to begin on February 11, 2025. Williams will be arraigned in the District of Oregon on September 20, 2024.

Conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering are punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison, three years’ supervised release, and fines of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gains or losses resulting from the offense.

This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG), IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS:CI), the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). It is being prosecuted by Meredith Bateman and Robert Trisotto, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Since January 2021, more than 50 people have been charged in the District of Oregon for their roles in fraud schemes targeting federal COVID-19 relief programs. Together, these defendants attempted to steal more than $903 million in federal funds. 38 individuals have been convicted for their crimes and sentenced to a combined total of 631 months in federal prison and 1,194 months of probation and/or supervised release.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

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On Tuesday, September 3, 2024, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Negotiations Team (TNT) served a search warrant near the 32000 block of SW Tongue Lane on a large property believed to be an illegal marijuana processing location.  

 A community member notified the Sheriff’s Office that the pungent odors of marijuana were coming from the location. Initial information was circulated to community members that the area was a storage facility for hemp, which turned out not to be true.  

The Yamhill County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at this same location in 2022 under similar circumstances. The property changed ownership after the 2022 incident.  

While serving the search warrant, investigators with the Washington County Westside Interagency Narcotics Team (WIN) located approximately 6,600 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value near $6,000,000. The marijuana was seized for destruction.  

The WIN team would like to thank the community for keeping a vigilant eye and the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office for assisting with the warrant service.  

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is asking for help in our continuing efforts to find a missing Fairview teen. Bailey 'Jade' Loucks was last seen on June 14, 2024, in the area of SE 122^nd Ave. and SE Powell Blvd, Portland. 

Bailey goes by the name Jade. She is a 15-year-old white female, approximately five feet tall and 110 pounds. She has brown eyes and a scar on her nose. She also has significant scarring on her leg. At the time she went missing, Jade had purple hair. Her family believes she may have dyed her hair blue. She is a frequent TriMet rider. 

If you see Jade call 911. If you have any information about her whereabouts, or think you may have seen her before, please contact MCSO detectives by calling 503-988-0560, emailing tips@mcso.us or reaching out to us on our website www.mcso.us. 

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. 10 Sept. 2024 – On Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at 6:07 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy. 138E near milepost 18, approximately one mile east of Glide, in Douglas County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a red Yamaha motorcycle, operated by Thomas Lee Bailey (38) of Idleyld Park, was traveling westbound on Hwy. 138E when an eastbound white Jeep Cherokee, operated by Randolph Lee Belloir (66) of Roseburg, turned left in front of the motorcycle. The two vehicles collided head-on in the westbound lane. 

The operator of the motorcycle (Bailey) was declared deceased at the scene. 

The Jeep Cherokee operator (Belloir) was not injured and cooperated with the law enforcement investigation. 

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

Oregon State Police was assisted by the Glide Fire Department, the National Park Service, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

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

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) and Oregon AARP are hosting back-to-back Scam Jam seminars in Bend on Sept. 12 at the Larkspur Community Center and in Sisters on Sept. 13 at the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Station. 

Joining DFR and AARP will be representatives from the Federal Trade Commission, local police officers, and others. Attendees will hear from experts and learn how to spot scams and gain prevention tips and tools to protect against fraud. Last year, Oregonians lost nearly $10 million to frauds and scams. 

“We are excited to have back-to-back session in central Oregon to bring fraud awareness to more people,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “It’s through these conversations that we can educate and empower Oregonians to recognize the signs of fraud and take steps to protect themselves.”

The Bend event will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Larkspur Community Center, 1600 SE Reed Market Road, Bend, OR 97702. The Sisters event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the fire station at 301 S. Elm Street, Sisters, OR 97759.

The event is free and registration is not required but is encouraged:

• Register for the Bend Scam Jam 
• Register for the Sisters Scam Jam

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

“No Place to Grow Old” Documentary to Spotlight Homelessness Among Older Adults

Premiere on September 27 at Newmark Theater

Portland, OR – “No Place to Grow Old,” a documentary shedding light on the rising issue of homelessness among older adults, will premiere September 27 at the Newmark Theater in Portland.

The film, shot locally, features personal narratives from older adults facing homelessness, accompanied by expert analysis on this expanding crisis. Produced by Humans for Housing, a nonprofit focused on raising awareness and finding solutions for homelessness, the documentary highlights a critical social issue through powerful storytelling.

Humans for Housing was founded by Michael Larson, 25, who grew up in the foster care system, moving through various homes with his siblings until they were finally adopted. His personal history led him to dedicate himself to work towards creating solutions for those experiencing homelessness, first as a volunteer and advocate, and now as the founder of Humans for Housing.

Tickets to the documentary are available on this link and a documentary trailer is available on this link. 

About Humans for Housing: Humans for Housing believes that every human has inherent worth and has a right to stable and safe housing. Through storytelling, community engagement, and advocacy for systematic changes, Humans for Housing aims to eradicate chronic homelessness in the United States and provide all people the home they deserve. Humansforhousing.org 

# # #

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Finance Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on September 12, 2024. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/87556421306?pwd=h0iNfBR7cOXRl7rjovhg1PNZNhNYwP.1
Passcode: 137289

QUARTERLY COFFEE WITH A DEPUTY - YACHATS

9/10/24 – Lincoln County, OR

The next Quarterly Coffee with a Deputy event with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is just around the corner. Join us on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, from 8am – 10am for a cup of coffee and a conversation Dream Machine Coffee (located at 131 Highway 101 North, Yachats, Oregon 97498). 

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

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

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man, who for more than a decade claimed to be a successful foreign exchange currency trader to solicit millions of dollars in investments, was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for wire fraud.

William Bennington, 53, was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. 

According to court documents, from March 2012 until October 2022, Bennington knowingly and intentionally carried out a scheme to defraud victims out of more than $2 million. In order to solicit investments, Bennington claimed to be a wealthy foreign exchange currency trader that had written a proprietary trading algorithm, which he alleged was the source of his wealth.  

Over the course of the scheme, Bennington promised annual returns of up to 80 percent and repayment terms as short as six months. He also created a fake website and fabricated monthly statements falsely showing victims were earning significant returns. Instead of investing his victims’ money as promised, Bennington spent it on extravagant trips, a golf simulator, and personal expenses such as rent, vehicle leases and credit card payments. 

On October 17, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a five-count indictment charging Bennington with wire fraud. Later, on April 4, 2024, Bennington pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.

This case was investigated by the FBI, and was prosecuted by Robert Trisotto, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

# # #

SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized resources to the Service Fire in Wheeler County overnight as the fire, pushed by gusty winds and critical fire conditions, rapidly grew Monday. The lightning-sparked fire is estimated to be 15,000 acres as of Monday night. The Wheeler County Sheriff has issued levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices. You can find the latest on evacuations here.  
 
Over the weekend, two task forces assigned to the Shoe Fly Fire were reassigned to the Service Fire through Immediate Response. Two additional task forces from Marion and Clatsop counties arrived Monday night, bringing the total to four task forces. 

The OSFM will coordinate structural protection resources with the Oregon Department of Forestry Incident Management Team 2, which is managing the Service Fire. 

“We are anticipating cooler weather over the next week and that should decrease fire behavior. The OSFM continues to use every tool at our disposal to protect people, property, and critical infrastructure from wildfire,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “This has been a challenging summer for our hardworking firefighters, and we encourage everyone to remain vigilant.” 

A community meeting for the Service Fire is planned for Wednesday, September 11 at the Fossil Elementary School Gymnasium at 6:30 p.m. Please use the west entrance. 

This is the 17^th time the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked this year. 

About the Emergency Conflagration Act  

The Emergency Conflagration Act is invoked by Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, allowing the state fire marshal to mobilize state resources to wildfires to protect life and property.  
  
The conflagration act is invoked following ORS 476.510-476.610 when Governor Kotek determines threats to life, safety, and property exist because of the fire, and the threats exceed the capabilities of local firefighting personnel and equipment.   

100 Years of Peace

The Grotto celebrates its 100^th Anniversary this Sunday, Sept. 15.

Since 1924, The Grotto (The National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother) has been a place of peace, prayer and natural beauty for all people. The 54-acre sanctuary welcomes hundreds of thousands of people from around the world each year.

To celebrate, the Upper Gardens will be free to all from 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to come and take a stroll along paved pathways through gardens, shrines and exquisite art … surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. 

There will be a celebratory Mass at 12 noon, outside in The Grotto Plaza. Archbishop Alexander K. Sample will preside.

Additionally, the new Grotto Interpretive Center will open Sunday. Learn about the history of the area, how the sanctuary began, as well as its environmental importance.

All are invited to come and celebrate. The Grotto welcomes people of all faiths, or no faith. It is a sanctuary for the world.

UPDATE: Renk is believed to be traveling in a converted Ford Ambulance, which is now painted two-tone white over gray and has an Oregon license plate of 353JWK. 

--Suspect wanted for sex crimes in Oregon and Alabama

WASCO COUNTY, Ore. 9 Sept. 2024 – Oregon State Police and the Mobile (Alabama) Police Department are seeking the public’s help to locate Adam Renk (39) who is wanted in both states for sex crimes against child victims. 

On June 21, 2024, OSP detectives responded to a sexual abuse disclosure made by a minor. The minor disclosed Renk as the perpetrator. Renk has since been indicted on multiple crimes against a child victim under the age of 12. He is charged with Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the First Degree, Sodomy in the First Degree, and Sexual Abuse in the First Degree.

As part of their investigation, OSP detectives learned Renk had been charged in another case involving a minor victim in Mobile, Alabama. The Alabama charges include Child Sexual Abuse and Torture involving an 11-year-old victim. The victims in the two states are not related. Alabama law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Marshals Service are attempting to locate Renk who posted bond in Alabama and was released from pre-trial custody. 

Renk was last seen leaving Alabama on August 7, 2024. He has ties to Oregon and Wasco County. He is believed to be traveling in a converted Ford Ambulance that is now painted two-toned white over gray. Renk is a white male, 6 ft. 1 in. tall, 175 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. 

Anyone with information about Renk’s whereabouts or information about possible additional victims is asked to contact the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office at 541-506-2580 or OSP Detective Cassie Bantz through dispatch at 800-442-0776 or by dialing OSP (677) on a mobile phone. 
  

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

GRESHAM, Ore. – On behalf of the Tejedas family, the Gresham Fire Department is pleased to announce that Firefighter Spencer Tejedas is being discharged from the Oregon Burn Center at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, Tuesday, September 10 at 2 p.m., after more than 14 weeks of treatment. Spencer will be moving to a rehabilitation facility for the next two to three weeks, before returning home to his wife Melea, and their two boys. 

“We are grateful for the outpouring of support shown by our community during this difficult time,” said Gresham Fire Chief Scott Lewis. “The progress Spencer has made is truly remarkable and we are thrilled for him to make this monumental step forward.”  

Original message:  

GRESHAM, Ore. – At approximately 9 p.m. on Thursday, May 30, Gresham Fire Department and Portland Fire and Rescue responded to the reports of a duplex on fire at the 1300 block of Southeast 182^nd Street. Due to the quick work of the responding crews, the fire was able to be contained to a single duplex unit and no civilians were injured.  

This was a complex response as the nature of the fire evolved rapidly. During the incident, three Gresham Firefighters sustained injuries and were transported to the Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. Two of the Firefighters have been treated and released. However, Firefighter Spencer Tejedas remains hospitalized at this time.  

Firefighter Tejedas suffered severe burns on over 45% of his body. He is sedated and intubated at the Oregon Burn Center and is considered to be in critical condition.  

“Incidents of this nature are a harrowing reminder that despite our best efforts with robust training and protective gear just how dangerous the job of a firefighter is,” said Gresham Fire Chief Scott Lewis. “Our hearts go out to the entire Tejedas family.” 

The Gresham Fire Department would like to ask that the privacy of the Tejedas family be respected during this challenging time. All media inquiries can be sent to eshamFirePIO@GreshamOregon.gov">GreshamFirePIO@GreshamOregon.gov as the Gresham Fire Department will be speaking on the family’s behalf at this time.  

After further investigation, it has been determined that the fire was accidental and caused by an unattended candle.  

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SALEM, Ore. — State and federal agencies are working together to bring air monitors and temporary air cleaners to schools in Harney County, which has experienced the most days of unhealthy air of any Oregon county due to wildfire smoke this year. 

The air cleaners are helping clear smoke from classrooms and other indoor school spaces when students are inside the buildings.

“Our county is large, and we have these tiny rural schools in every corner,” Kelly Singhose, Harney County’s interim public health co-director, explained. “To make decisions about their students’ exposure to smoke, they need air quality data from right where they are.”

To do that, the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) provided six air monitors in the county, quickly increasing the total number of USFS monitors deployed in the county to seven — “resources we couldn’t have gotten on our own,” Singhose said. The USFS air monitors are placed throughout the county.

The air cleaner and air monitor distribution effort developed during interagency wildfire smoke coordination calls the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Air Program and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Health Security, Preparedness and Response Section (HSPR) host. Other agencies represented on the calls include Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), Oregon Department of Human Services Office of Resilience and Emergency Management (ODHS-OREM), Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), and local and tribal health. 
 

“After Harney County made the ask July 31, everyone chipped in to make this happen,” said Gabriela Goldfarb, OHA’s Environmental Public Health Section manager. In addition to the USFS air monitors, ODHS provided four large air cleaners, and DEQ is providing $5,000 in grant funding, she said.
 

Such collaborations have become increasingly routine summertime activities, with multiple counties benefiting from air quality advisories DEQ issues. Still, other communities, such as Lane and Josephine counties, received resource support in previous years during severe smoke events. While home air filters have become more accessible to communities suffering from poor air quality, funding, staffing and the need to balance responses to multiple climate-related events, such as extreme heat and wildfire smoke, continue to be challenges, making coordination critical.
 

Harney County placed two of the four air scrubbers at the local hospital and a senior center that became a cleaner air center. As the first day of school approached, the health department arranged for schools to receive the remaining two scrubbers, which can clean large spaces, like school gymnasiums. The county has procured additional filters through a public-private partnership. 
 

The interagency wildfire smoke calls are intended to foster coordination on development of air quality advisories using knowledge from federal, state and local agencies. Information about air quality and advisories can be found on the Oregon Smoke Blog.
 

Oregon boosts emergency preparedness with new evacuation software

Oregon Emergency Mangers already seeing significant reduction in time to communicate evacuation information. 

Salem, Ore. - In honor of National Preparedness Month, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is excited to announce a new contract that will provide advanced evacuation software to all of Oregon’s 36 counties and nine Tribes. The software, from Genasys Inc., will help manage emergency evacuations more effectively across the state.

As Oregon deals with more frequent and severe disasters, it’s essential to have a clear plan for evacuations and support services. While law enforcement handles the immediate evacuation of people, the ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management (OREM) works with local communities to help identify people who need evacuation assistance and ensure people are evacuated to a location that meets their needs.  

“Even well-prepared communities face challenges with evacuations, especially when multiple areas are affected. We’re thrilled to offer this new software to all our counties and Tribes,” said Ed Flick, Director of OREM. “This tool will help emergency managers make quick and informed decisions to keep everyone safe. Over the last week the tool was used to coordinate evacuations for the Rail Ridge Fire in Grant, Crook and Wheeler Counties, which is Oregon’s top priority wildfire. National Preparedness Month is a great time for everyone to review their own emergency plans and supplies. For tips, check out Ready.gov.” 

The Genasys EVAC software helps with planning and managing evacuations. It allows emergency services to quickly create and update evacuation plans, run realistic simulations, and respond faster during an emergency.

Nick Vora, Emergency Manager for Union County, shared his enthusiasm: “Changing, exporting, and adding evacuation zones for alerts used to be slow and complicated. While there are many great mapping tools out there, they often made it time-consuming to update evacuation zones and get them ready for emergency alerts. It could take 15 to 30 minutes to make these changes and load them into the alert system. With Genasys, however, the process is much faster. You can select and adjust an area and get it ready for alerts in just a few minutes. This quick turnaround makes managing emergency alerts much easier and more efficient.”

“Genasys Protect was instrumental in notifying community members of evacuations during the Falls and Telephone Fires in Harney County. When time is of the essence, being able to instantly notify community members of updated evacuation levels is crucial. We loved the ease of use and the ability to train new staff members on how to use it under one minute. This is an essential tool during wildfires,” said Melinda Todd, Harney County Emergency Manager.

Ken Kehmna, a retired fire chief and advisor at Genasys, added, “After Oregon’s severe fires in 2020, we tested this software in Deschutes and Jackson counties. Both counties saw great results and adopted the software, leading to its statewide use.”

Michael Smith, Senior Vice President at Genasys Protect, emphasized the benefits: “EVAC’s planning and real-time communication features are vital for managing emergencies in any community, from small towns to large cities.”

This new software represents a significant step forward in making sure Oregon is ready for emergencies and can respond quickly and effectively.

About the ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management

ODHS holds four distinct roles through its Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, all of which reduce the impact of disasters on people.

• Mass care:  Planning for and supporting people in the early stage and immediate aftermath of emergencies. Our work includes things like coordinating evacuation assistance, the distribution of life-sustaining goods and services, including hydration, feeding, sheltering, reunification, and distribution of emergency supplies. 
• Social services recovery:  Helping people and social services agencies recover. Our Social Services Recovery Coordinators work with survivors and their families to identify barriers to recovery, make a plan to address those barriers, and support the survivors on their journey. Our role also includes helping local social services agencies that may be impacted by the disasters to return to full functioning as soon as possible. 
• Continuity of operations:  Ensuring communities’ ongoing access to ODHS services. This includes making sure our offices are open and essential services continue, as well as supporting the agency programs and the case managers who ensure the safety of the tens of thousands of Oregonians who may need extra and early help in an emergency. 
• Legislatively directed resilience work:  Warming, cooling and cleaner air shelters; water distribution and resilience hubs. These situations don’t fit what’s traditionally been considered emergencies, but they can have significant impacts on people. The Legislature made OREM the lead for this type of work to help people. 

Across all these roles, ODHS develops and relies on partnerships and coordination with public and private organizations at the local and regional levels and with our state and Tribal Nation partners. 

WPD UPDATE ON SCHOOL TRAFFFIC SAFETY ENFORCEMENT FROM AUGUST 26 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 6, 2024

Woodburn OR- The Woodburn Police Department (WPD) has completed its two-week traffic enforcement effort throughout the Woodburn School District.  The traffic enforcement effort resulted in 80 traffic stops in school zones during restricted speed zone hours of which:

• 59 traffic stops involved speeding
• 14 traffic stops involved failing to obey a traffic control device
• 15 traffic stops involved operating a vehicle while using a mobile electronic device (cellphone)

A total of 68 traffic citations were issued along with 38 warnings. 

While the safety enforcement period has concluded, WPD wants to remind everyone to continue driving safely in and around school zones to keep students, staff and community members safe this school year.

Woodburn Police Announcing School Traffic Safety Enforcement from August 26 through September 6, 2024

Woodburn OR- The Woodburn Police Department (WPD) will conduct traffic safety enforcement during the beginning of the school year, starting Monday, August 26 through Friday, September 6, 2024. This will take place throughout all Woodburn School Zones. 

Officers will be focusing on enforcing speed, seatbelt usage, unlawful use of mobile devices while driving and any other unsafe driving violations.  The goal of traffic safety enforcement is to keep students, school staff and community members safe during this school season.  WPD wants to remind everyone that most school zones in Woodburn have reduced school speed zone laws of 20 miles per hour between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on all school days, and that traffic violations in these zones face enhanced fine amounts.  The Woodburn Police Department encourages all motorists to drive safely and to plan on extra time if their commutes will involve traveling to or through school safety zones. 

FAIRVIEW TRUST MAKES BIGGEST INVESTMENT TO DATE - Community Fund Infuses Major Grants in Projects that Serve People Living with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

PORTLAND, Ore. - The Fairview Trust has distributed more than $5 million in grants across Oregon to build homes and advocacy programs that serve people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The funding for 11 organizations will expand integrated housing opportunities and improve the lives of the people they serve.

Collectively, the grants represent the Trust’s single largest investment since it was created after the closure of the Fairview Training Center in 2000. Funding was allocated this year through the Oregon Office of Developmental Disabilities Services. The Fairview Trust is a Community Advised Fund within Oregon Community Foundation, governed by an Advisory Board.

“As a provider of services promoting and supporting enhanced independence for people living with IDD, I am honored to be part of the expanding integrated housing initiatives supported by the Fairview Trust and Oregon Community Foundation,” said Terri H. Silvis, Ph.D., CEO of Horizon Project, Inc. in Umatilla County, Oregon and chair of the Fairview Trust Advisory Board. “This funding is having a significant and expanding impact on our communities. Together, we are forging new partnerships and furthering the work begun with the closure of the Fairview Training Center and other institutions. We collectively benefit from the talents and contributions shared by our neighbors experiencing IDD.”

“Once they are completed, the projects will have an immediate impact on residents and clients,” said Diane Scottaline, Executive Director of The Arc of Benton County.

“Funding from the Fairview Trust will allow us to construct 2 training units as hands-on, real-life settings for community living skills for adults with developmental disabilities,” said Scottaline.

“Accessibility features will be designed for the broadest utility and introduced after construction to show students how they can modify a space for their unique needs. The 6-8 program students will have one-on-one support and the use of technology for task prompts and instructions. The Fairview Funding has expedited this important program, bringing possibilities of increased community access to people with IDD for many years to come.”

OCF Program Officer Michael R. Oreste, who manages the partnership with Fairview Trust for OCF, added, "It was very exciting to collaborate with the committee members of the Fairview Trust to grant statewide dollars for an often-overlooked population of Oregonians. Being able to partner with experts in the field, while providing critical services for our community members, epitomizes the mission and values of Oregon Community Foundation.”

In addition to integrated housing opportunities, the grants also support advocacy programs, including Partners in Policymaking® by Disability Rights Oregon.

“People with disabilities and family members have been the driving force behind closing the Fairview Training Center, creating a service delivery system that is the envy of the nation, and developing paths to employment for everyone with disabilities in Oregon,” said Jake Cornett, CEO of Disability Rights Oregon. “Over eight months, we’ll work alongside national leaders to teach more than 20 participants leadership skills while developing strong relationships with elected officials and others who make policy decisions about services and supports we rely on. This investment in tomorrow's disability advocates will pay dividends long into the future."

The Fairview Trust originates from the closure and sale of the Fairview Training Center, a state-run institution for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities that operated from 1908 until 2000. A U.S. Justice Department investigation unveiled life-threatening conditions at the facility. This finding, coupled with a federal civil rights lawsuit, catalyzed its closure, marking an end to nearly a century of institutionalization.

The Fairview Trust was initially overseen by the Oregon Department of Human Services but was restructured under the Oregon Community Foundation in 2019, guided by a newly constituted Advisory Board.

Integrated Housing Grants

Sammy's Place - Thompson Springs Project 
Location: Nehalem, Oregon Grant 
Amount: $744,325 
Description: An affordable housing community with 13 units to support independent living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Horizon Project Inc. - Theater Lane Apartments 
Location: Hermiston, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $800,000 
Description: A 22-unit integrated housing complex reserving up to five units of affordable, accessible housing to support independent living for people with IDD.

Northwest Housing Alternatives - Grace Housing 
Location: Northeast Portland, Oregon Grant 
Amount: $250,000 
Description: Grace Housing will bring approximately 100 new apartment homes to a half city block in Northeast Portland, 20 of which will be reserved for people with IDD and rented at well below market-rates.

Sabin Community Development Corporation - Avenue Redevelopment 
Location: Portland, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $500,000 
Description: An early-stage planning grant for a 78-unit net-zero energy building with 12 integrated units for people with IDD, incorporating both universal design and sustainability features.

Living Opportunities - Bennett Street Housing 
Location: Medford, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $147,500 
Description: An early-stage planning grant to develop 5 to 10 housing units to promote independent living and community integration for people with IDD.

Our Home, Inclusive Community Collaborative - Cathedral Park Cohousing 
Location: Portland, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $250,000 
Description: A 23-unit cohousing-inspired development with shared common spaces, fostering community interaction and independent living for people with IDD.

McMinnville Area Habitat for Humanity - Aspire Community Development 
Location: McMinnville, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $504,225 
Description: Two fully accessible homes for individuals with IDD and complete an inclusive community playground to promote integration.

Advocates for Life Skills and Opportunities (ALSO) - ALSO Apartments
Location: Gresham, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $550,000 
Description: This project will build a 39-unit residential building featuring Universal Design with up to 10 units reserved for individuals with IDD.

The Arc of Benton County - SLLEDD (Smart Living, Learning and Earning with Developmental Disabilities) Location: Corvallis, Oregon 
Grant Amount: $750,000 
Description: The Arc of Benton County will construct two training home units and renovate a community center to equip young adults with IDD with skills for independent living and community integration.

Advocacy Grants

Fair Housing Council of Oregon 
Grant Amount: $275,000
Description: This project will expand access to housing for people with IDD by advocating for policies that eliminate housing barriers. 

Disability Rights Oregon 
Grant Amount: $300,000 
Description: DRO and its partners will implement a leadership training series for self-advocates and parents of individuals with IDD to build advocacy skills and promote systemic change in affordable housing policy. 

The Fairview Trust is committed to promoting community integration and independent living for individuals with IDD. These projects exemplify our mission to create inclusive, supportive environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these initiatives will have on communities across Oregon. For more information about the Fairview Trust and our grant programs, please visit fairviewtrust.org. 

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF strengthens communities in every county in Oregon through grantmaking, scholarships and research. In 2023, OCF distributed $225 million in grants and scholarships. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, please visit oregoncf.org. 

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Salem, Ore. — The City of Salem is informing drivers who use High Street SE that the northbound lane will be closed beginning Wednesday, September 11, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to allow access for vendors of the Salem Art Fair in Bush’s Pasture Park. The closure will continue Thursday, September 12, 2024, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and again on Sunday, September 15, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.  

The Salem Art Fair is a three-day outdoor event from September 13 to 15. The event is open to the public and will be hosting one-of-a-kind artwork, musicians, performers, food, and drinks. Learn more about the Salem Art Fair at www.salemartfair.org.

Road Closure Details:

Location: High Street SE – Northbound Lane – from Miller Street SE to Bush Street SE

Date and Time: Wednesday, September 11, 2024, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday, September 12, 2024, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday, September 15, 2024, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Affected Areas: High Street SE starting at Miller Street SE will be available for Salem Art Fair Vendors only. Local access will be allowed for southbound traffic only.

Caution: Thru traffic should use Liberty Street SE to avoid event activities and delays.

The Road Closure Map provides up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem.  To report issues, contact the City of Salem’s Public Works Dispatch Center at 503-588-6211 or vice@cityofsalem.net">service@cityofsalem.net.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Commission on Aging will hold its annual retreat on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024 from 3:15 to 6 pm. The meeting will be held in-person. The retreat will not include provisions for virtual attendance but is open to the public. Topics at the retreat to include the 2025 work plan and selection of the 2024 Silver Citizen. 

The meeting will be held in Room 678 at the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin Street.

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.

PORTLAND, Ore.–The VA Portland Health Care System is scheduled to host a number of local community town hall meetings throughout its area of responsibility starting Sept. 11, 2024.

The first community town hall is scheduled to be held in Fairview/Gresham from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The address is Gresham Post 30, 39 NW 3rd St, Gresham, OR. Veterans throughout the Portland-Metro area are invited to attend.

The purpose of these events is to showcase any updates to Veteran care within the VA Portland Health Care System, and to provide resources and information beneficial to Veterans and their families. VA Portland Health Care System Director, David L. Holt is scheduled to attend each of the events. Included in the presentation will be updates for VA Portland Health Care System, Toxic Exposure Screening, Enrollment Resources, Women Veterans’ Program information, and an audience question and answer session.

MILTON-FREEWATER, Ore. – The J.L. Elam Bank is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places. Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) recommended the nomination at their June 2024 meeting for its significance as one of the few examples of Classical Revival architecture in Milton-Freewater. The National Park Service, which maintains the National Register of Historic Places, accepted this nomination in August 2024.

Constructed in 1906, expanded in 1908, and remodeled with a new façade in 1920, the J.L. Elam Bank is located amongst other commercial buildings on Main Street in downtown Milton-Freewater. The one-story, rectangular building has painted, smooth concrete block walls and displays many character-defining features of the Classical Revival style, including a flat roof with decorative balustrade on the parapet, flat arch lintels above windows and doors, symmetrical entrance with columns, smooth exterior walls, and an entablature. The building is one of the few and most notable examples of the Classical Revival commercial style in Milton-Freewater, and it reflects the evolution of the Classical Revival style in rural communities.

The J.L. Elam Bank was originally constructed to house the Freewater Branch of the Walla Walla-based Elam Bank. At the time of its opening, it was the first and only bank in the town of Freewater, and it had been much anticipated by Freewater residents; however, it closed after only two years in operation. The property has had many other commercial occupants over its 118 years, including law offices, doctor offices, post office, a second bank, an insurance agency, a restaurant, and presently a winery tasting room. 

The National Register is maintained by the National Park Service under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Properties listed in the National Register are:

• Recognized as significant to the nation, state, or community;
• Considered in the planning of federal or federally-assisted projects;
• Eligible for federal and state tax benefits;
• Qualify for historic preservation grants when funds are available;
• Eligible for leniency in meeting certain building code requirements;
• Subject to local laws pertaining to the conservation and protection of historic resources.

State law in Oregon requires local governments to offer a minimal level of protection for properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places; the decisions about how to accomplish that goal reside with local governments, which also have the authority to create and regulate local historic districts and landmarks.

More information about the National Register and recent Oregon listings are online at oregonheritage.org (under the heading “Designate”).

For media: Detective Tamari Johnson and Detective Sergeant Brad Robertson will be available for interviews about the highlighted cases at 10 a.m. at the Troutdale Sheriff's Operation Center (234 SW Kendall Court Troutdale, OR 97060). Please let us know if you plan to attend by emailing pio@mcso.us 

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is launching a webpage dedicated to unsolved, cold case homicide investigations that occurred in Multnomah County.

The webpage features these cases:

Charly Richards 
- Last seen alive on August 21, 1992.
- A hiker found Richards’ body on Aug. 31, 1992, in a wooded area in Troutdale.
- Richards was a Clark College student and U.S. Army reservist.
Read more

Bonifacio Rodriguez-Rodriguez 
- Last seen alive on the evening of September 25, 1994.
- His body was found on Sauvie Island with a gunshot wound a week later.
- Rodriguez came to Oregon from Mexico to find work.
Read more

John Warner Nolen
- Body of an unidentified male found in the Columbia River on April 29, 1992.
- Reported missing by family in Washington State in April 1993.
- In 2013, dental records were used to identify Nolen. 
Read more

Anyone with information about the cases listed, or any Multnomah County cold case, is strongly encouraged to contact detectives at 503-988-0560, by email at tips@mcso.us or via the tip submission form. If you wish to report anonymously, please report tips to Crime Stoppers of Oregon.

“The individuals involved in these cases and their loved ones deserve justice,” said Detective Sergeant Brad Robertson. “We are dedicated to pursuing a resolution to these crimes and hope anyone with information will come forward.”

MCSO will continue to add cases to the site in the coming months.

Detective Tamari Johnson and Detective Sergeant Brad Robertson will be available for interviews about the highlighted cases at 10 a.m. at the Troutdale Sheriff's Operation Center (234 SW Kendall Court Troutdale, OR 97060). We are also including an interview with Charly Richards' family members who both live out of state. Additional photos from Charly’s siblings are included in the Dropbox.

Dropbox folder contents:

• Photos of Charly Richards, John Nolen and Bonifacio Rodriguez-Rodriguez
• Interview with Richards' siblings: Tammie Jamison Hitt and Donny Jamison
  • :09 – Tell us about Charly
  • 3:14 – What would you like other to know about Charly?
  • 3:56 – What would a resolution mean to your family?

Press Log

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

REVISION: 2024 Raffle Quilt, “Winter Magic” will not be at the Battle Ground Community Library until October.  View it at the Museum through the end of September. Tickets are available to purchase for $1.00 each.

Open Days:

Saturday, September 14^th                            Open Noon  – 4:00 pm

Saturday, September 28^th                            Open Noon – 4:00 pm    

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

or email museumnch88@gmail.com

Board meetings: 

Thursday, September 12^th            7:00 pm               via Zoom              Business Meeting            

Contact museumnch88@gmail.com for link

Wednesday, September 25^th       2:00 – 4:00 pm   In House             Business Meeting/Work Session 

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

Open Door Stitchery Circle          Saturday, September 14^th             1:00 – 4:00 pm

Bring your project to work on, visit with others, learn something new, share ideas, make a new friend.

OPEN HOUSE!   September 28^th                 Noon to 4:00 pm              See what your Museum has to offer.      

Door Prizes.       Refreshments.     Volunteer opportunities.

Visit our new website:  northclarkhistoricalmuseum.com

No Admission Fee.          Donations appreciated.                Wheelchair accessible.

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

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