FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Media hotline: 503-813-6018

Pacific Power Launches Wattsmart Battery Program to Boost Grid Reliability and Efficiency

Washington customers can now earn incentives while helping Pacific Power build a more sustainable and reliable energy system.

PORTLAND, Ore. (Sept. 15, 2025) — Pacific Power has rolled out its Wattsmart Battery Program, a forward-thinking initiative that enables customers to take part in building a smarter and reliable energy grid for the future. This program allows customers in Washington to earn financial incentives by integrating personal battery storage systems into the grid, helping support grid reliability and sustainability.

By enrolling, participants allow Pacific Power to manage their batteries as part of a distributed energy network, helping to optimize solar energy use, reduce carbon emissions and keep electricity prices low.

“Our goal is to create a more resilient and efficient grid that empowers customers to be a part of the energy solution,” said, Shawn Grant, director of customer solutions, for Pacific Power. “Through strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technology, the Wattsmart Battery Program helps communities optimize energy use and lower costs, especially during peak times in the summer.”

Participation in the Wattsmart Battery Program helps customers who have installed solar systems with backup batteries save on their energy bills and benefit their community.

Participation Benefits:

• Earn incentives for connecting batteries with the power grid. Participants get up to $600 per kilowatt as an upfront enrollment incentive as well as ongoing bill credits.
• Integrate renewable energy with the grid, reducing emissions.
• Provides emergency backup power during outages.
• Help keep electricity prices down.

To learn more or enroll, customers can visit PacificPower.net/Battery

###

About Pacific Power

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

LSTA Advisory Council Meeting

Online

September 29, 2025

AGENDA

11:00 a.m.       Welcome and Review Agenda

11:10 a.m.       Letter to Board regarding LSTA funding

11:30 a.m.       General Business

• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Review previous action items
• Elect new members and chair-elect
• Appoint new Statewide Database Licensing Advisory Committee member

11:55 a.m.       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.)

12:00 p.m.      Reports

• Members - what's going on in your representative area
• LSTA budget & spending
• Statewide Database Licensing Advisory Committee update
• AGE+ Digital Literacy Pilot Program
• Community Engagement

1:00 p.m.         Grants

• FY24 cycle: Final reports
• FY25 cycle: Awards
• FY26 cycle: Cancelled

1:50 p.m.         Wrap Up and Action Item Review

2:00 p.m.         Adjourn

SALEM, Ore. — On Sept. 14, at about 6 p.m., an overflow of untreated sewage into Claggett Creek occurred near 1860 Hawthorne Ave. NE. The incident was resolved by 8 p.m. the same evening. About 920 gallons of untreated sewage were spilled.

City of Salem utility crews responded immediately, clearing the blockage and cleaning the affected sewer line. Public Works staff are conducting a follow-up site assessment today to determine the cause of the blockage.

To protect public health, signs have been posted advising residents to avoid contact with the water in Claggett Creek due to potentially elevated bacteria levels. Water quality testing is underway and will continue until results confirm the issue has been resolved. Any bacteria introduced into the creek should naturally flush out within the next few days.

If you notice an overflowing sewer manhole or want to report a spill, please contact the Public Works Dispatch Center at 503-588-6311.

You can help prevent sewer backups and overflows by keeping fats, oils, rags, and grease out of the sewer system. Learn more about preventing sanitary sewer overflows and the City of Salem’s efforts to reduce these events by visiting https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/household/water-utilities/wastewater/how-to-prevent-sewer-back-up.

For additional information, please contact the City of Salem at 503-588-6311 or email us at vice@cityofsalem.net">service@cityofsalem.net.

Coffee Creek Correctional Facility (CCCF) and Canine Companions will host a Puppy Matriculation Ceremony

Media invite

What:

Please join us as Coffee Creek Correctional Facility (CCCF) and Canine Companions host a Puppy Matriculation Ceremony to celebrate the service dogs raised by incarcerated women through the facilities unique training program. The event will include a heartfelt reunion with the graduated service dogs, the individuals they now assist, and the women who helped raise and train them. This is a unique opportunity for the women at CCCF to see the dogs thriving in their new roles – a powerful testament to the programs positive impact on everyone involved.

When:

Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 7:00 – 8:30 PM

Where:

Coffee Creek Correctional Facility 24499 SW Grahams Ferry Road Wilsonville, OR 97070

RSVP to: 

Amber Knight via email no later than 5:00 PM on September 19, 2025

Amber.N.Knight@doc.oregon.gov

Public Information Officer 503-507-3567 

Additional Information:

To learn more about Canine Companions, visit https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcanine.org%2Fabout%2Fwho-we-are%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_name=%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010101994ee0fa36-22222425-69a7-47a0-942d-bfd997f1b192-000000/6c9pL6fbpy5PoFa79uZbE4qaLyptjl8KH5gN2TuuYno=422. Click or tap if you trust this link.">Who We Are - Canine Companions 

Background:

The dogs being celebrated spent their first 18 months at CCCF being cared for and trained by incarcerated women known as Puppy Handlers. During their time at the facility, the puppies learn their first 30 foundational skills. They then continue to a regional training center in California that teaches them advanced instruction and prepares them to become fully certified service dogs. This program offers incarcerated women the opportunity to contribute to society in a meaningful, purpose driven way.

Media wishing to attend will be required to complete a criminal background check. We ask that you arrive 30 minutes early to be processed through security.

###

Updated from yesterday's crash. At approximately 3:15 a.m. on September 14th, deputies responded to reports of a motorcycle versus vehicle crash near the 6400 block of Ganon St SE.

Upon arrival, deputies determined that the rider, Zachariah Brown, 44, of Salem, had sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of the involved vehicle remained on scene and is cooperating with investigators.

The Marion County CRASH Team is continuing to investigate.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office extends our condolences to the family and loved ones of those involved during this difficult time.

We would also like to thank the Marion County CRASH Team, Marion County Fire Department, and Marion County Public Works for their assistance during the investigation.

MEDIA RELEASE

Contact:          Sgt Torin Liden

Phone:            541-994-3636

Date:               9-15-2025

RE:                  Threat to Lincoln City Cultural Center

On Saturday, September 13, 2025, the Lincoln City Police Department received a threat of a mass shooting at the Lincoln City Cultural Center.  At the time of the call LCPD Officers responded to the Cultural Center, secured the area, and evacuated the building for the safety of the participants.

On further investigation, it was determined there was no current danger to the public. The Lincoln City Police Department is still investigating the caller and will release further information when the investigation concludes.

Oregon has criminal statutes which address these incidents such as Initiating a False Report, or Disorderly Conduct in the First Degree.

LCPD would like to thank the Lincoln City Cultural Center, the Oregon State Police, and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in this case.

Submitted By:

Sergeant Torin Liden

Under Authority Of:

Chief David Broderick

City Council will hold its next Council Community Forum from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 29, at Educational Service District 112, 2500 N.E. 65th Avenue. Community forums are held quarterly at locations across Vancouver.

All community members are invited to attend and share their questions, concerns, and ideas directly with the City Council in informal small-group discussions. No RSVP or registration is required. For interpretation services or accommodations with a disability, please contact the City Manager’s office at 360-487-8600 or cityinfo@cityofvancouver.us.

##

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Monday, September 15, 2025

BEND, OR — Bend’s biggest little art show is returning to the High Desert Museum, and this year promises to be the most impressive yet. The 20-Dollar Art Show, presented by Bright Place Gallery, will feature more than 8,000 miniature masterpieces created by 350-plus artists.

Celebrating original artwork created by established and emerging artists, The 20-Dollar Art Show opens Saturday, October 4. For two weeks, visitors, art enthusiasts and fans can explore the exhibition, find their favorites and plan their shopping wish lists. Walls throughout the Museum will showcase rows of creative, colorful miniature art.

Then, an Extravaganza Kickoff event takes place on Friday, October 17 from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm with music, food and drinks. For the low, low price of $20, each of the thousands of artworks will be available for sale. It will be the first time visitors can purchase their mini masterpieces, with all proceeds going to the artist. As in previous years, timed ticket entries will be available for 5:30 pm entry, 6:30 pm entry and 7:30 pm entry.

On Saturday and Sunday, October 18 and 19, special Extravaganza events will keep rolling from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm! At least a thousand new works will go out each morning while artists create one-of-a-kind artwork on site. Tickets will be required for the morning sessions for non-Museum members. Those exclusively visiting The 20-Dollar Art Show to browse and buy Saturday and Sunday afternoons may do so without paying admission, as well as on Monday, October 20.

Tickets for the Friday evening, Saturday morning and Sunday morning events go on sale at 12:00 pm Wednesday, September 24 at highdesertmuseum.org/20-art-show-info. Tickets are $5 for adults and free for ages 16 and younger. Timed entry tickets are first come, first served. Last year, all tickets sold within minutes.

“The 20-Dollar Art Show continues to grow every year with an awe-inspiring array of miniature art,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “This is a favorite exhibit, and it is an honor to host this beloved community event that supports local and emerging artists.”

The brainchild of Stuart Breidenstein and Abby Dubief of the former Bright Place Gallery, The 20-Dollar Art Show began in 2013 to help local artists sell their art while also making it affordable and accessible to the public. When the gallery closed in December 2019, the show had already grown beyond its walls. After a break during the pandemic, the show found a new home at the Museum. Since 2021, the Museum’s walls are packed with miniature artworks every fall.

“We are excited that so many artists are participating this year,” said Breidenstein. “We’re not only overwhelmed by the sheer quantity of work, but also by the quality. As the show grows, we’re continually inspired by the one-off gems these mostly unknown artists can create.”

Breidenstein and Dubief produce the show each year, helping to hang the art at the Museum, which can take days to complete. As artists themselves, both contribute pieces to the show. Other popular local artists featured in the 2025 exhibition include Sondra Holtzman, Janet Kilgore, Carrie Erickson, Jessie Zenor and Mike Wise. Participating artists range from age 8 to 80.

Each piece of art is a maximum of 36 square inches, making them truly miniature. The art ranges from watercolors and macrame to oil portraits and acrylic landscapes. Some include a touch of humor while others tell a story or carry a message. When all the art is on the Museum’s walls, the mini artworks do not seem so small anymore, said Dustin Cockerham, Senior Curator of Exhibitions and Collections at the Museum.

“We build temporary walls to help display all of these amazing miniatures,” said Cockerham. “This year, the exhibition will be on view for two weeks before the sale begins. It’s worth visiting and exploring all the art, not just so you can pick your favorites beforehand but to see the scale of the exhibition and the breadth of creativity.”

Window shopping in the days prior to the extravaganza is one of the best ways to view the exhibition and prepare for the sale. Browse the walls of art, experience all the inspiring styles, colors and themes, and find your favorite mini masterpieces. Viewing the exhibition before the October 17 Extravaganza is included with the price of admission.

The 20-Dollar Art Show is open through Monday, October 20 and is made possible by the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation and The Clabough Foundation.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

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

###

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, James Daniel Gardner, died September 14, 2025. Gardner was incarcerated at Oregon State Correctional Institution (OSCI) in Salem and passed away at the facility. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Gardner entered DOC custody on June 2, 2022, from Josephine County with an earliest release date of December 24, 2025. Gardner was 32 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

OSCI is a multi-custody prison located in Salem that houses approximately 870 adults in custody. It provides a range of correctional services and programs including education, drug and alcohol treatment, mental health treatment, religious services, work crews, and transition planning. OSCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises, including a print shop and a contact center. OSCI was established by action of the 1955 Legislature and became fully operational on June 1, 1959.

####

Embargoed until Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 2:45 p.m. 

Embargoed until Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 12:15 p.m. 

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
September 15, 2025

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER ANNOUNCES FINALISTS FOR 2025 BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP AWARDS

Two Ways to Celebrate: Live-Streamed Ceremony and In-Person VIP Social, Presented by Riverview Bank, Set for October 9, 2025

VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) is proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 Business & Leadership Awards, presented by Riverview Bank. These awards spotlight outstanding businesses and visionary leaders who have significantly contributed to the vitality and progress of Southwest Washington over the past year.

This year, the celebration offers two ways to participate. Community members can tune in to a live-streamed awards ceremony on Facebook Live on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., or join the excitement in person at an exclusive VIP Social at The Heathman Lodge from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Since 2012, the Business & Leadership Awards have honored excellence across the region, showcasing companies and individuals who embody the Chamber’s motto of Moving Business Forward. For 2025, finalists are recognized in five categories: Start-Up to Watch, Small Business, Large Business, Statesperson, and the newly added Manufacturer of the Year.

The finalists are:

Start-Up to Watch (in the last 5 years):

• AC Hotel
• OnPoint Removal Services
• The VIC (Vancouver Innovation Center)

Small Business (up to 25 employees):

• NW Escape Experience
• SGA Engineering
• The Difference

Large Business (more than 25 employees):

• Crumbl Cookies
• GRO
• Live Nation

Statesperson:

• Rep. David Stuebe, 17th Legislative District
• Greg Johnson, Interstate Bridge Replacement Program
• Rep. Kevin Waters, 17th Legislative District

Manufacturer of the Year:

• One Day Glass
• Ryonet
• Wolf Industries

“Each year, the Business & Leadership Awards shine a light on the organizations and leaders whose vision, innovation, and dedication are moving our region forward,” said John McDonagh, President & CEO of the Greater Vancouver Chamber. “This year’s finalists represent the very best of Southwest Washington’s business community, from startups with bold new ideas to established companies driving growth, and individuals whose leadership makes a lasting difference. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and the impact they have on our community.”

The Business & Leadership Awards Livestream will also spotlight Clark County’s 2025 First Citizen Award honorees, David and Patricia Nierenberg. Presented by HAPO Community Credit Union, this prestigious award celebrates individuals whose leadership, volunteerism, and philanthropy have left a lasting mark on our community.

Tickets for the in-person VIP Social at The Heathman Lodge are available now at: https://www.vancouverusa.com/business-leadership-awards.

The GVC’s Business & Leadership Awards are made possible thanks to the generous support of Riverview Bank and additional sponsors, including HAPO Community Credit Union, Maddox Industrial Transformer, Washington Trust Bank, WSU Vancouver, PeaceHealth, Alaska Airlines, BBSI, Opsahl Dawson, Perkins & Co, The Columbian, and MacDonald-Miller Facility Solutions.

Stay updated and save the date for the live awards ceremony by visiting: https://www.facebook.com/events/747907797846881 

###

About the Business & Leadership Awards

Introduced in 2012, the Business & Leadership Awards honor outstanding businesses and individuals who exemplify the Greater Vancouver Chamber’s motto of "Moving Business Forward." For over a decade, the southwest Washington business community has celebrated excellence and leadership through these prestigious awards.

About the First Citizen Award

Since 1939, the annual First Citizen Award has been presented to a Clark County resident who models the attributes of good citizenship through leadership, action, civic pride, and cultivates inclusive civic engagement practices. These are individuals who, through their business, volunteering, and philanthropic efforts, improve the lives of those in the community by serving first. For more information about the First Citizens through the years, visit:  https://www.vancouverusa.com/first-citizen-award-honorees.

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

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

Embargoed until Tuesday, September 16, 2025, 2:45 p.m. 

Embargoed until Tuesday, September 16, 8:45 a.m. 

[Beaverton, Ore., Sept. 15, 2025.] – Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon (PRO), a non-profit organization that delivers support to people living with Parkinson’s disease in the Pacific Northwest, will host its annual Sole Support for Parkinson’s Walk on Saturday, September 20^th, at the Rose Quarter Commons in Portland.

The family-friendly event connects people whose lives are impacted by a Parkinson’s diagnosis together with a caring and supportive community for a walk along the waterfront, spreading awareness about this neurodegenerative disease that is on the rise throughout Oregon and the nation. All funds raised during the Portland event will remain in Oregon, where PRO has been helping people living with the disease since 1980.

The growing need for community support has never been more urgent. PRO Board member and renowned neurologist with the Parkinson Center and Movement Disorders Program at Oregon Health & Science University, Dr. Joseph Quinn, continues to see the significant impact of Parkinson's disease on his patient population.

"While we continue to advance our understanding of Parkinson's disease through research, the statistics are sobering—Parkinson's is the fastest-growing neurological disease in the world, with one person diagnosed every six minutes," said Joseph Quinn, M.D., Professor of Neurology in the OHSU School of Medicine, Parkinson's Center Director, and PRO Board Member. "With approximately 90,000 new diagnoses annually in the U.S. and our aging population, these numbers will only continue to rise. What I've learned in my practice is that Parkinson's doesn't just affect the patient—it affects the entire family. That's why community support through organizations like PRO is so vital."

Comprehensive support is exactly what PRO delivers year-round to Oregon and Southwest Washington families. PRO's service offerings include live support through their Helpline, support groups, workshops, and facilitated connections to a comprehensive collection of fitness classes including yoga, tai chi, dance, and no-contact boxing—all proven strategies for managing Parkinson's symptoms alongside medical treatment.

Events like Sole Support help fund these vital services while bringing the community together. Join Portland's fight against Parkinson's disease. Registration for Sole Support is free, and every donation stays local to support families in our community. Whether you walk the 1K or 5K route, volunteer, or simply spread the word, you're helping ensure that no one faces Parkinson's alone. Experience the strength, hope, and determination of the Portland Parkinson's community on September 20th—because together, we are unstoppable.

Event details:

Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Time: Registration opens at noon; Walk begins at 1:30 pm
Location: Rose Quarter Commons in Portland

~1k and ~5k routes are walker and wheelchair friendly

Registration is free – fundraising is encouraged. To register, find out more, or donate, go to www.solesupport.org or call the PRO toll-free helpline – 1-800-426-6806.

About Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon:

Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon (PRO) is a donor-supported non-profit with the sole mission of improving the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s, their families, and caregivers. With three locations, hundreds of volunteers, and dedicated leadership, PRO provides direct care and support to thousands of families. Working to address issues faced by Parkinson’s patients and their families, PRO can significantly improve the quality of life for everyone touched by this disease. To learn more, visit www.parkinsonsresources.org

Follow PRO:
Instagram: @pdpronw
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ParkinsonsResources
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/parkinson-s-resources-of-oregon

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 families 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:

• Tuesday, Sept. 23 — Zoom
• Wednesday, Oct. 22 — On campus (Dengerink Administration Building, Room 129)
• Thursday, Nov. 20 — Zoom
• Tuesday, Dec. 17 — On campus (Dengerink Administration Building, Room 129)

The workshops are free and open to the public. Register at vancouver.wsu.edu/a-z. 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 accommodations, call 360-546-9739 or email van.accomodations@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.

# # #

VIDEO PACKAGE: Cleanroom ribbon-cutting event recap.

HILLSBORO, Ore. – The future is here at Portland Community College’s Willow Creek Opportunity Center (241 SW Edgeway Drive) in Hillsboro.

PCC opened its “Technology Innovation Spaces” at the center, which includes the Teaching Cleanroom, Artificial Intelligence Lab and a Manufacturing Lab. PCC programs and staff will work with Silicon Forest companies and the community to provide career exposure and develop skilled workers in the region through these advanced manufacturing training spaces.

“The Technology Innovation Spaces at our Willow Creek Opportunity Center represents PCC’s commitment to preparing Oregon’s workforce for the future,” said PCC President Dr. Adrien L. Bennings. “With spaces like the Teaching Cleanroom and AI Lab, we are bridging education and industry, ensuring students gain the hands-on experience and skills needed to thrive in high-demand and high wage fields like semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, and artificial intelligence. These investments are about more than facilities; they are about supporting people, strengthening the communities talent pipeline, and fueling innovation across the region.”

The goal of the Teaching Cleanroom, which opens this fall, is to simulate a production cleanroom. The facility will help credit and non-credit students, community-based organizations, high school dual credit students and incumbent workers train on gowning procedures and requirements, safety protocols and a variety of wafer-handling processes. 

The state-funded cleanroom is 1,152 square feet and features two Lesker Vacuum Training Systems donated by Intel and a Festo Simulated Automated Manufacturing System. The simulated cleanroom environment allows the Microelectronics Technology and Electronic Engineering Technology students to learn and train for semiconductor and advanced manufacturing jobs.

“Oregon’s future depends on the strength of our economic resilience and workforce,” said State Sen. Janeen Sollman. “Portland Community College’s new Technology Innovation Spaces are exactly the kind of investment that keeps Oregon competitive, prepares students for high-demand careers, and strengthens our economy for years to come.”

Opened for use last January, the Artificial Intelligence Lab is a flexible space focused on emerging technologies. This new 1,900-square-foot lab supports hands-on exploration of all things involving artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), projection mapping, robotics and machine learning. Supported by a Congressional Community Funding Project, the lab has an upgraded power infrastructure to support a variety of technology such as audiovisual systems, and matrix switching and two audio zones for ease of presentations and technology uses by students.

“The AI Lab at Willow Creek serves as a key site for developing digital fluency and innovation skills,” said G.D. Iyer, program dean for Computers & Engineering. “This space reflects PCC’s commitment to expanding access to high-tech learning environments and preparing students for careers in the AI-driven economy.”

The Mechatronics Lab opened in 2021 has been the focal point for Quick Start Semiconductor Technician Training and Microelectronics Technology Program training. Quick Start, a partnership with Intel, has hosted 30 cohorts with 421 students graduating with an impressive 66% job placement rate. More than 64% of the program’s graduates identify as under-represented or female.

“Semiconductors are at the heart of innovation, and Oregon plays a critical role in shaping the future of this industry,” said Courtney Martin, director of US State Government & Community Affairs for Intel. “Portland Community College’s Technology Innovation Spaces will equip students with the expertise needed in advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and semiconductor technology. Intel is proud to partner in this effort to ensure Oregon continues to lead the world in semiconductor innovation. Working together, we are building pathways that empower students to shape the future of technology right here in our backyard.”

Oscar Rodriguez is a second-year Microelectronics Technology Program student, who has experienced PCC’s Willow Creek’s Technology Innovation Spaces firsthand. Thanks to financial support and the high-tech learning environment, Rodriguez is pursuing an associate degree as he works at a new job at Jireh Semiconductor in Hillsboro.

“I started in another program, but once I learned about the semiconductor training, I knew I wanted to be part of it,” Rodriguez said. “With the help of a scholarship and support from staff who guided me through the process, I was able to step into a new career. Now, just a few months into my new role, I feel confident about the future I’m building.”  

For more information about the Willow Creek Opportunity Center, visit https://www.pcc.edu/locations/willow-creek/

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 53,000 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/

PORTLAND, OR – September 15, 2025. The Lemelson Foundation today announced its relocation to a new office space at 2035 NW Front Avenue, Suite 501, Portland, OR 97209, in Portland’s Pearl District. The move reflects the Foundation's growth and commitment to fostering groundbreaking invention, innovation, and entrepreneurship in Oregon, across the U.S., and worldwide.

The environmentally-friendly and human-centered space represents a new chapter for the Foundation, offering an environment that will enhance collaboration, efficiency, and impact. The purpose-built space enables the Foundation's team to connect and innovate in new ways, and fosters a more open, fluid exchange of ideas among team members. 

“Our new office marks an exciting milestone in The Lemelson Foundation's evolution. This thoughtfully designed space is a reflection of our philanthropic commitment to the organizations and programs that support inventors and entrepreneurs,” shares Rob Schneider, the Foundation’s Executive Director. “We built this collaborative and dynamic environment to not only inspire our team and partners, but also to ignite the kind of innovative thinking that leads to a better world. We look forward to welcoming our partners, grantees, and community members to our new space."

The WELL- and LEED Platinum-certified building offers EV charging stations, a smoke-free campus, and a green roof, while the new office space is thoughtfully designed with sustainability at its core. Additionally, it features expansive collaborative zones, state-of-the-art technology for seamless global connectivity and virtual engagement, adaptable meeting spaces to accommodate diverse partnerships, and a focus on natural light and ergonomic design to boost creativity and well-being.

The Lemelson Foundation is fully operational at its new Portland location. Contact information, including phone number and email addresses, remains unchanged.  For more information on The Lemelson Foundation's philanthropic mission and initiatives, please visit www.lemleson.org.

ABOUT THE LEMELSON FOUNDATION: The Lemelson Foundation uses the power of invention to improve lives. Established in 1992 by prolific U.S. inventor Jerome “Jerry” Lemelson and his wife Dorothy, and guided today by the Lemelson family, the Foundation believes invention can solve many of the biggest economic, social, and environmental challenges of our time. A private philanthropy located in Portland, Oregon, and operating globally, The Lemelson Foundation has provided over $350 million in grants and other investments to hundreds of organizations around the world.

Update with additional pictures.

Gresham, Ore.— After months of investigative work, law enforcement has shut down an organized retail theft operation in Gresham. 

Following up on information obtained in previous retail theft cases, investigators from the Portland Police Bureau, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Gresham Police Department, and Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office determined Said Alawi, of Portland, was running a fencing operation from his home in Portland and the Oregon Flea Market in Gresham, where Alawi is a vendor. 

This morning, a joint operation was carried out to serve warrants at the Oregon Flea Market and Alawi’s home.  Investigators recovered thousands of stolen items, including clothing, hygiene products, cosmetics, and other property.  The retail cost of the recovered items is well over $10,000.  Alawi will face charges including aggravated theft in the first degree and organized retail crime. 

Organized retail crime impacts every member of the community by driving up prices at legitimate retailers.  These price increases affect all products, not just frequently stolen items.  Targeting the fencing operation where stolen goods are resold to the community disrupts one of the root causes of theft by reducing the demand for stolen goods. 

Members of the community can assist in the fight against retail crime by remembering if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.  If a store always has brand new, name brand merchandise, at significantly lower prices than any other retailer, there is a high chance they are re-selling stolen merchandise. 

Networks involved in organized retail theft spread across city limits, county lines, and even state borders.  The Gresham Police Department appreciates the assistance from PPB, CCSO, MCDA, and our retail industry partners.  We will continue to work together to dismantle retail theft networks and hold accountable the offenders who profit from these operations. 

At 11:56 am on September 14, 2025 , Deschutes County 911 received multiple calls reporting an RV on fire in the Juniper Ridge Temporary Short Stay Area (TSSA).  On arrival in the area, which was south of Wiley Circle and about 75 yards east of Highway 97, a fully involved Class C motorhome was found. The fire extended to nearby vegetation and combustible materials, but was limited in spread due to fuel reduction work performed in the area earlier this year.  Crews were able to quickly knock down the fire, with assistance provided on scene by US Forest Service, Cloverdale Fire District, Oregon State Police, and Deschutes County Sheriff's Office.  Two individuals and a dog were displaced by the fire, a cat is still unaccounted for.  REACH was contacted to provide assistance to the occupants of the RV.  

Upon investigation, the exact cause of the fire could not be determined, but is believed to be accidental in nature.  

The limited spread of the fire today illustrated how defensible space works.  Due to work performed limbing up trees and removing excess vegetation in the Juniper Ridge area earlier this year, the fire was limited in size and able to be contained quickly.  Does your home have defensible space?  For more information on simple steps that residents can take to create defensible space around their home, visit https://www.bendoregon.gov/government/departments/fire-rescue/emergency-preparedness/own-your-zone.

Roads have been reopened following last nights vehicle vs motorcycle crash.Due to the ongoing investigation no further information is being provided at this time. 

Marion County Sherriff"s Office deputies and the Marion County CRASH team are currently investigating a vehicle vs motorcycle crash that occured at 6401 Gannon St,SE. 

Due to the ongoing investigation roads will be closed from 62nd Ave. to Culver Dr.

Sunday, September 14

3:30 p.m.

The Grotto Plaza

All are welcome to join us for the 41st Annual Blessing of the Animals. Bring your pets, properly restrained, to The Grotto Plaza For this special blessing.

People and pets of all faiths are welcome!

At 11:51 p.m. yesterday evening, fire crews responded to a commercial fire at 19400 SW 125^th Court in Tualatin. 911 dispatchers monitored several alarms being activated at the premises and determined a fire response was needed.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke pouring out of multiple bay doors at the building. Due to the size of the building and large amount of smoke present, the incident was upgraded to a second alarm to bring additional resources.

Firefighters encountered low visibility and had to use ventilation techniques to improve the conditions inside the building. Fire crews were able to confirm that no one was in the building and quickly moved toward the fire’s primary location to bring the fire under control.

Battalion Chief Pete Godin noted, “our crews performed exceptionally due to a combination of clear communication and well-coordinated tactics. Their skills and decision-making limited the impact of this fire on the building”

A fire investigator determined that lithium-ion batteries being stored in the building were the cause of the fire.

TVF&R was also assisted on scene by Lake Oswego Fire, Tualatin Police Department, American Medical Response, and WCCCA 911 dispatchers.

TVF&R approves the use of all images included with this release for the purpose of news dissemination.

###

The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on September 16, 2025. 
This meeting will be held virtually through Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/84158510430?pwd=32YZElnZx5tEUUelBVuEudIaFAcGaz.1
Passcode:578263

Vancouver Fire Department and Fire District 6 responded to an apartment fire around 11:30am on September 13^th.  Neighbors stated they heard several explosions prior to one of the triplex units catching on fire at 3412 NE 53^rd St in Vancouver.  First arriving units found heavy black smoke pouring from the front and rear doors of the left side 2 story apartment.  Crews described the first floor as having heavy fire conditions that extended into the attic via siding on the back side of the apartment.  A second alarm was called by the Battalion Chief in command that brought an additional compliment of Engines, Squads and Trucks to the scene.  Aggressive yet calculated fire attack ensured the other 2 apartment units were protected from fire extension.  Seven people are displaced due to the extensive fire damage to the attic.  The profession often comes with known risks that all firefighters accept.  One of the pictures shows a standard practice of decontaminating our turnout gear to decrease contact with toxic smoke and substances encountered during fires.  Unfortunately one firefighter was transported to a local hospital in a stable condition after firefighting efforts.  The Clark County Fire Marshals office is heading up the investigation. 

Judith has been been located and is being connected with family members.

Marion County Sheriff's Office deputies are currently searching the southeast Salem area for a missing woman,84 year old Judith Anne Giggy.

Judith was last seen at 1:00 pm when she left 3741 Bayonne Dr SE, Salem driving a red 2015 Toyota Yaris. Judith is 5ft 4, approximately 115 lbs with grey hair and blue eyes.

If you see Judith please call 911.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – Investigators with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Dangerous Drug Team (DDT) have seized approximately seven pounds of fentanyl and drug tools as part of an ongoing investigation.
 

This is the team’s second large drug seizure in a one-week span.
 

On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, DDT investigators searched an apartment in Troutdale. As part of the investigation, officials also searched a nearby car, resulting in the seizure of fentanyl pills and powdered fentanyl. The specific address is not being released, pursuant to the ongoing investigation.
 

During the search, investigators recovered a large metal press, commonly used to press fentanyl, along with respirator masks to protect the manufacturer. Evidence seized indicates the individuals were cutting, weighing, pressing, and packaging the illegal drugs for delivery.
 

“The work of the Sheriff's Office, Dangerous Drug Team is critical to disrupting the illegal manufacture and trafficking of dangerous drugs,” said Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “I am very proud of the positive impact our investigators have.”  
 

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

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

Multnomah County’s Department of Community Justice’s Adult Services Division assisted with this case.
 

No additional information about this case is available for release.
 

Two photos are being released. Media may use this with credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

On September 5, 2025, Lincoln County Circuit Court Judge Amanda Benjamin sentenced Joshua Rebic (51-year-old) to 12.5 years in prison for repeated work-place sexual abuse of a 20-year-old employee Rebic was directly supervising in 2021 and 2022.

Judge Benjamin sentenced Rebic to a total of 150 months at the Department of Corrections for 15 counts of Sexual Abuse in the Third Degree, 4 counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, 1 count of physical Harassment, and 1 count of sexual Harassment.

On June 6, 2025, after a two-day trial, Rebic was found guilty by a 12-person Lincoln County jury of 21 counts from 12 separate incidents between December 2021 and September 2022. This work-place sexual abuse was disclosed to the Lincoln City Police Department (LCPD) after Rebic left his supervisory position for a new job in September 2022.

In March 2023, Rebic was indicted by the Lincoln County Grand Jury and arraigned on a 23-count indictment. At the time of Rebic’s arraignment, he was participating in a domestic violence deferred sentencing program for two counts of domestic menacing for conduct that occurred in July 2022 towards two members of his immediate family.

Rebic was initially denied release, which was ultimately upheld after a contested hearing by Judge Benjamin in April 2023. However, in May 2023, this decision was reversed and bail security was set at $100,000. Rebic subsequently posted bail and was released from custody with a GPS monitoring device. In August 2023, Rebic cut off his GPS monitoring device and fled the state. Judge Benjamin subsequently issued a warrant for Rebic’s arrest.

This case remained in warrant status until Rebic was located by Lincoln County District Attorney’s detectives in July 2024. Through several different investigative tools, DA detectives were able to track Rebic’s movements to Melrose, MN and then back to Salem, OR. With the assistance of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, DA detectives arrested Rebic on the outstanding warrant and he was transported back to Lincoln County in August 2024.

At sentencing, DA Jenna Wallace recommended the Court impose consecutive sentences on the four most serious counts given the frequency of the conduct, the severity of the charges, the impact on the victim, Rebic’s supervisory power over the victim, and his attempt to avoid responsibility by absconding prior to trial. However, after careful consideration, Judge Benjamin ultimately imposed consecutive sentences on two of the four counts for a total of 150 months (12.5 years). Judge Benjamin indicated that this sentence in no way diminished the obvious harm the victim went through but was appropriate based upon the totality of the sentencing factors.

This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace and investigated by Sergeant Erik Anderson, LCPD. The District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Lincoln City Police Department and Sergeant Anderson for their commitment to investigating crimes of this nature to ensure accountability and community safety. This case was also investigated by DA Detective Martin Bennett. DA Detective Bennett was instrumental in locating and arresting Rebic after Rebic absconded. With DA detectives actively seeking Rebic’s whereabouts, this case may very well still be in warrant status.

When a defendant fails to appear for court, the criminal case is paused until the defendant is located. In practice, this means a case can sit in warrant status for months or years until the defendant is located. This can be especially frustrating and impactful for crime victims awaiting justice. It is largely the responsibility of DA detectives to locate absconded individuals and coordinate their arrest throughout the United States. Unfortunately, the DA detective position has been vacant and unfilled since Detective Bennett’s retirement in January 2025. This is the first time in 20 years that the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office has been unable to provide detective services to crime victims. This vacancy has prevented the District Attorney’s Office from being able to perform basic functions such as locating absconded individuals, conducting follow-up criminal investigations, transporting victims or witnesses to court hearings or trial, and assisting the Cold Case Homicide Unit (currently focusing their efforts on solving the Kelly Disney homicide).

The impact of the detective vacancy has had a substantial impact on the District Attorney’s ability to swiftly prosecute crime in Lincoln County. It has also added additional burdens on our local law enforcement agencies, who have been forced to use their own resources to assist in follow-up investigations and locating/transporting victims and witnesses to assist prosecution. Most recently, Lincoln City Police Department devoted three detectives and one command staff to the District Attorney's Office to assist in transporting five separate witnesses for trial - a task that ordinarily would have been done by the DA detective. 

The District Attorney’s Office has repeatedly made requests to fill the detective position, along with other vacant positions, through an application process, however, Lincoln County Human Resources and Commissioner Claire Hall, as acting County Administrator, made the unilateral decision to freeze hiring of the detective position and two deputy district attorney positions in May 2025 for an undetermined amount of time. Although the District Attorney’s Office has repeatedly made requests for a public safety exception to these positions, like exceptions given to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, County Administration, Health and Human Services, Transit, and Public Works, those requests have been denied by Human Resources and Commissioner Hall, as Human Resources liaison and acting County Administrator. 

Currently, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department is holding a hiring event on October 11, 2025, to fill, at minimum, seven positions within their department. The District Attorney’s Office is thrilled to see the County using resources to fill vacant positions in the Sheriff’s Office. However, unless and until the County is willing to use resources to fill vacant positions in the District Attorney’s Office, this is an exercise in futility. Increasing employees in the Sheriff’s Office, while simultaneously preventing the hiring of employees in the District Attorney’s Office (including three prosecutor positions) is counter intuitive.

When a crime is committed, law enforcement agencies, like the Sheriff’s Office, initiate the criminal investigation. However, those investigations are then forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for formal prosecution in circuit court. Without the District Attorney’s Office, individuals would be arrested on crimes with no later criminal case or consequences. Continued staffing shortages in the District Attorney’s Office will have a direct impact on the amount and type of criminal cases being prosecuted in Lincoln County. The criminal justice system is only successful when all parts are sufficiently staffed and work together. Adding more employees to the Sheriff’s Office, while freezing or cutting positions within the District Attorney’s Office, will delay justice and adversely impact community safety.  

The District Attorney’s Office needs to fill vacant positions immediately to provide our community with essential law enforcement services at the prosecution level. The Lincoln County District Attorney is asking citizens to contact the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and express the importance of filling all previously budgeted for positions, including three deputy district attorney positions, as well as the DA detective position. The District Attorney’s Office also urges citizens to request Commissioner Chair, Claire Hall, add an agenda item to the next Board of Commissioner meeting to discuss current County hiring freezes to allow community input and ensure all public safety positions are prioritized.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Council for the Homeless hosts Gathering for Change: Moving Forward Together

Annual fundraiser Oct. 15 to feature ‘Leading With Empathy’ panel

VANCOUVER, Wash. (Sept. 10, 2025) — Council for the Homeless is proud to host Gathering for Change 2025, an inspiring evening of storytelling, insight and community-driven solutions, presented by Walsh Construction Co. This pivotal annual fundraiser takes place Wednesday, Oct. 15, at the historic Kiggins Theatre, with a virtual attendance option available. 

As the lead organization in Clark County’s homeless response system, Council for the Homeless invites the community to come together in the belief that homelessness is solvable — when we move forward together. 

Attendees will hear powerful stories of resilience, gain expert insight, and learn how to take tangible action to prevent and end homelessness. 

Date & Time: Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.

Location: Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St., Vancouver, Wash.

Tickets: General admission includes entry, dinner and drinks. Sliding scale pricing and scholarship options are available to ensure accessibility for all.

Council for the Homeless is pleased to acknowledge Walsh Construction Co. as this year’s presenting sponsor. Its leadership and generosity play a crucial role in powering the community and supporting this event.

New in 2025: “Leading With Empathy” Panel

A dynamic panel conversation will explore how compassion drives real change in housing, advocacy and funding. This engaging discussion features respected community leaders:

• Jesse Beason, president and CEO, Northwest Health Foundation

• Ed Johnson, director of litigation, Oregon Law Center

Moderated by Esra Khalil, senior program officer at the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, the conversation will inform, inspire and uplift.

Gathering for Change is more than a fundraiser — it’s a movement.

Celebrate the real, measurable progress being made across Clark County. Discover how individual stories and collaborative efforts are transforming lives and advancing our shared goal of safe, stable housing for everyone. 

Proceeds directly support Council for the Homeless in its efforts to solve homelessness through a coordinated communitywide approach. 

For more event information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.councilforthehomeless.org/events/gathering-for-change.

For sponsorship information, email Maggie Bernetich, annual giving and events manager, at eretich@councilforthehomeless.org" style="text-decoration-line: none;">mbernetich@councilforthehomeless.org.

For media coverage and interview requests, email Nneka Coxeff, communications manager, at ncoxeff@councilforthehomeless.org or media@councilforthehomeless.org. 

# # #

About Council for the Homeless: Council for the Homeless (CFTH) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in Clark County, Wash., by providing community leadership, compelling advocacy, and practical solutions to solve homelessness on an individual and community level. Founded in 1989, CFTH serves as the lead agency and coordinated entry for delivery of homeless services through the Continuum of Care for Homeless Services in Clark County, Wash.

(Salem) – Carsyn Woolfolk, age 5, and Abel Woolfolk, age 7, went missing with their mother Josee Marie Pyshny and father Daniel Scott Woolfolk from Portland on Sept. 4. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division believes that they may be at risk and is searching for them to assess their safety.

ODHS asks the public to help in the effort to find Carsyn and Abel. Anyone who suspects they have information about the location of Abel, Carsyn, or their parents Josee Marie Pyshny and Daniel Scott Woolfolk should call 911 or the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).

They are believed to be in the Portland Metro area or Vancouver, Washington.

Name: Carsyn Lee Woolfolk
Pronouns: He/him
Date of birth: March 31, 2020
Height: 42 inches
Weight: 40 pounds
Hair: Brown
Eye color: Brown
Other identifying information: Carsyn is on the autism spectrum and is non-verbal.
Gresham Police Department Case # 25-37531
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children # 2061078

Name: Abel Cole Woolfolk 
Pronouns: He/him
Date of birth: Aug. 27, 2018
Height: 48 inches
Weight: 55 pounds
Hair: Brownish blond
Eye color: Blue
Other identifying information: Abel has eczema and visible tooth decay.
Gresham Police Department Case # 25-37531
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children # 2061078

Sometimes when a child is missing they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

###

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Treasurer Alishia Topper reminds residents that second-installment 2025 property taxes are due Friday, Oct. 31, 2025.

Tax statements will be mailed Friday, Sept. 12, 2025. If taxpayers are expecting a mailed statement and don’t receive one or have questions, please 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 – 4 pm.

Topper is continuing the convenient drive-through drop-off location at the ground floor of the Public Service Center parking structure on Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, and Friday, Oct. 31, 2025.

Online payments can be made using a checking or savings account at no cost. Payments made with a debit card will incur a $3.95 vendor fee, and credit card transactions will carry a 2.39% vendor fee. To pay online, visit www.clark.wa.gov/treasurer/payment-options or call the payment line at 1.833.440.8685 to speak with a live payment vendor representative. Property owners can also sign up to receive electronic statements and manage their tax accounts by visiting https://www.paydici.com/clark-county-wa/search/landing.

Payment transactions must be postmarked by midnight, Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, to avoid interest charges.

Tax payments can be mailed to the Clark County Treasurer, 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.

For more information, visit www.clark.wa.gov/treasurer or contact the Treasurer’s Office by phone at 564.397.2252, or by email at treasoff@clark.wa.gov.

Portland, OR — All are welcome to attend the next America 250 Oregon Commission meeting, which will be held virtually at 3:30pm on Monday, September 15. Register here if you would like to join the live conversation. If you are unable to attend, the meeting recording and minutes will be posted online at oregon250.org in the following weeks.

The meeting agenda is available online, with topics including a recap of the recent America 250 Washington, D.C., convening and the commission’s participation in the Oregon State Fair as well as details on the Oregon 250 Grant Program.

All are encouraged to visit the America 250 Oregon website to discover local community events and browse two digital photographic exhibits.

Submit Your Event to the America 250 Oregon Community Calendar

The America 250 Oregon Commission invites individuals, organizations, and communities across the state to participate in our state’s official 250th commemoration by hosting events that reflect the diversity, creativity, and history of Oregon. Whether you’re planning a lecture, festival, exhibition, performance, community conversation, or something entirely unique — the commission wants to hear from you!

To be featured on the America 250 Oregon community calendar, your event must align with at least one of the commission guideposts — the foundational values guiding our semiquincentennial commemoration effort in Oregon.

Fill out the Event Submission Form if you would like your event included on the America 250 Oregon community calendar. All submissions will be reviewed and could take up to 3 weeks for response. Please submit a separate form for each program, project, or event you plan to host. Approved events will receive the “America 250 Oregon Official Event” logo for inclusion on promotional materials.

America 250 Oregon Traveling Exhibitions

The America 250 Oregon Commission is currently offering two traveling exhibitions that are available to rent at no cost!

The Power of Place highlights Oregon’s awe-inspiring landscapes, from its rugged coastline to its tranquil valleys and majestic peaks, many of which have remained unchanged for centuries.

The Pursuit of Happiness shifts the focus to the people and communities of Oregon and the way we gather to celebrate the diverse cultures that define our state. 

Both exhibitions are also available to view for free online here.

Get Involved

If you or your organization is interested in getting involved with the America 250 Oregon commemoration, please contact egon.250@ohs.org">oregon.250@ohs.org or sign up for the official America 250 Oregon email list.

About the America 250 Oregon Commission

The mission of the America 250 Oregon Commission is to coordinate, provide guidance, and ensure that Oregon’s official observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is inclusive and shares the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including the histories of the Indigenous peoples who have resided here since time immemorial. Learn more at oregon250.org.

(ASTORIA, OR) - Clatsop County Awarded More Than $1 Million in Preparedness and Response Equipment

Clatsop County agencies have been awarded an estimated $1,010,400 through the State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) Grant Program, funding every single project submitted.

“This is amazing news for Clatsop County,” said Justin Gibbs, Emergency Management Director. “Having every request funded means our first responders and partner agencies will be better equipped to respond quickly and effectively during an emergency. These investments strengthen the safety and resilience of our community.”

The SPIRE Grant Program provides life-saving equipment to local governments, special districts, and other public safety agencies across Oregon. The program helps ensure communities are better prepared to respond to emergencies and disasters by supplying specialized tools and resources.

Clatsop County’s award will fund critical preparedness and response equipment identified by local agencies to improve their ability to protect residents in the event of disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, wildfires, and hazardous material incidents.

More information about the SPIRE Grant Program can be found at: https://spire-geo.hub.arcgis.com/

(ASTORIA, OR) - The Clatsop County Courthouse elevator will be back in service next week, just in time for the launch of a new security screening process. Both improvements are part of the ongoing Courthouse Modernization Project, which focuses on safety, accessibility, and infrastructure upgrades.

Courthouse Public Entrance
Beginning Monday, September 15, all courthouse visitors must use the Courthouse Public Entrance, located on the first floor facing Duane Street at the parking lot.

• Visitors will be required to enter and exit through this entrance.
• Second-floor doors will be locked and available only for emergency exit.
• This single public entrance is designed to enhance safety and streamline access.

The County is committed to the safety of everyone who works at and visits the courthouse, and by directing all visitors through the Courthouse Public Entrance in addition to adding security screening, we’re creating a safer environment while still ensuring that the courthouse remains open and accessible to the community we serve.

Security Screening
At the Courthouse Public Entrance, all visitors will go through security screening:

• Walk through a metal detector
• Place personal belongings on an x-ray scanner for inspection
   

Visitors are encouraged to allow extra time for screening before scheduled hearings or appointments.

Prohibited Items
The following items are not allowed inside the courthouse:

• Weapons of any kind (such as firearms, knives, pepper spray)
• Items that could be used as weapons (such as tools, scissors, large metal objects)
• Explosives or flammable materials
• Illegal drugs
• Alcohol
• Recording devices or cameras (without permission)
• Food and beverages

Clatsop County appreciates the community’s cooperation and patience as these important upgrades are implemented. The new system will help ensure a safe and accessible courthouse for all.

For questions, please contact Clatsop County Administration at 503-325-1000.

When Charlotte Barnes moved her family to Ridgefield a few years ago, she was surprised to discover something missing in the area: a string orchestra program.

“I grew up always being in orchestras,” Barnes said. “I started playing in them when I was little—middle school, high school, even in college. Orchestra was such a big part of my life. So when we moved here, I was shocked that there wasn’t a string orchestra program in Ridgefield.”

That realization planted a seed. At first, Barnes pushed the idea away. “None of my kids play string instruments yet, and I’m really busy. I’m not the person for this. But that idea would not leave my mind. I just kept thinking I should start one.”

After researching options—hosting at a church, a Grange hall, or even her home—Barnes discovered Ridgefield School District’s Community Education program. Through a conversation with Community Education Director Mandy Evans, she found the perfect fit. “I realized I could hold rehearsals at schools and it would be advertised to kids across the district. I thought, this is it. This is perfect.”

Starting Small, Dreaming Big

Barnes launched the Ridgefield Youth Orchestra in spring 2024 with just four violinists. To fill out the group for their first concert, she invited community members to play viola, cello, and bass. With only seven rehearsals, the group performed six pieces at the end of the last school year.

“It was wonderful,” Barnes said. “We started small, but I have big dreams. I want Ridgefield to one day have a robust string orchestra program they can be proud of—multiple levels, competitions, and performances like the bigger school districts.”

This fall, the program grew to six violinists. One of the things Barnes loves most about the small group is the collaborative spirit. Students help select the pieces they perform, ranging from classical favorites to modern ensemble works, and even a bluegrass song with guitar, banjo, and tambourine played by her own children. “When you play a string instrument, it’s not as fun to just play by yourself. You want to play with other people. And now they can.”

Balancing Music and Busy Schedules

Barnes designed the orchestra with Ridgefield’s student-athletes in mind. The program runs in fall, winter, and spring sessions that align with sports seasons. “If you’re doing cross country in the fall and can’t participate, you can do orchestra in winter,” she explained. “The hope is that students can join when their schedules allow.”

Each session ends with a concert. The first performance of the year will be Thursday, November 20, at 7 p.m. in the View Ridge Middle School Black Box theater. Admission is free, and the program will feature ensemble pieces, duets, solos, and a variety of styles. The orchestra will also perform at the Downtown Ridgefield Hometown Celebration on Saturday, December 6th at 10 a.m.
 

A Passion Project

Barnes, who studied violin and earned a degree in psychology at Brigham Young University, has been teaching and leading musical groups for more than a decade. She conducts children’s choir at her church, organizes summer ensembles, and teaches family music classes. Despite her experience, she emphasizes that this new orchestra is about joy and growth, not perfection.

“This is supposed to be a fun thing,” she said. “I’m not a serious, strict person. This is just making music together, learning and growing.”

She also points out that her work with the orchestra is entirely volunteer. While students pay a small fee through Community Education, those funds go toward books, sheet music, facilities, and insurance. Barnes has also registered the Ridgefield Youth Orchestra as a nonprofit to make scholarships available.

It costs more than the incoming tuition to run; I spend a lot of my own money,” she admitted. “We’re always seeking donations, because some students can’t afford even the small fee. If someone believes strongly in music, I would love their assistance.” 

Donations can be made by contacting Barnes directly at ridgefieldyouthorchestra@gmail.com.

An Invitation to Play

For students who already play violin, viola, cello, or bass, Barnes has a clear pitch: “You’ve put in so much work to become a great player. Come join us and make music together. It’s a whole different experience playing with other instruments—there’s so much energy. And you’ll always be remembered as a founding member who helped start something big for Ridgefield.”

Barnes also encourages local adult musicians to get involved. “I need adults who can help with sectionals or perform with us, especially if they play cello or bass. Please spread the word to anyone you know who plays a string instrument. Also, if you can help with teaching, conducting, marketing, administration, social media, fundraising, networking, etc, please reach out.”

For Barnes, the motivation comes from her own experience as a young musician. “All my best friends were in orchestra,” she said. “It was a beautiful way to create and contribute. I want Ridgefield youth to have those same experiences.”
 

With passion, persistence, and community support, Barnes believes Ridgefield’s newest music tradition is just beginning to take shape.

If you are interested in enrolling your child in the Youth Orchestra, please visit thersd.org/Orchestra. 

Lifeline Connections’ annual fundraising luncheon, “A Lifeline To Wellbeing,” will be held Thursday, September 25th, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Royal Oaks Country Club (8917 NE Fourth Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA). Supporters will hear inspiring stories of  recovery and resilience and learn about the vital services Lifeline Connections provides to help our community thrive. Tickets are $75 per person, and lunch is included.

Ticket purchases and donations support Lifeline Connections’ work in the community to provide life-saving care to individuals experiencing substance use and/or mental health conditions. Given federal and state funding cuts, Lifeline Connections must rely on support from the community now more than ever before. 

Lifeline Connections Board Chair, Brian Barry, shares: “If we are successful in reaching our fundraising goal, we will be able to replace the HVAC system in our Pregnant and Parenting Women’s program, which serves women with substance use conditions who are pregnant or have children under 6 years of age who stay with them during treatment.”

A Lifeline to Wellbeing will feature keynote speaker Jeff Hatch, an Ivy League graduate and retired NFL player, who will share his incredible journey of football injuries, relapse, federal charges, and his road to recovery. Other speakers include the Mayor of the City of Vancouver and the President & CEO of Lifeline Connections, Andrea Brooks, MSW, LSW.

“By joining us on September 25th, you are taking action to ensure behavioral health treatment and services are available to our community, especially to those at the greatest risk and most in need of a lifeline,” Lifeline Connections President & CEO, Andrea Brooks, emphasizes. “Please join us to learn the impact our mental health and substance use treatment programs have on our families and our community.”

Lifeline Connections is committed to raising awareness, eradicating stigma, and providing treatment for substance use and mental health conditions. In Washington State, 1 in 5 adults experience a mental health condition each year, and 1 in 20 will experience a serious mental health condition. In addition, over 82,000 youth aged 12-17 have been diagnosed with depression¹, and the number of annual opioid-related overdose deaths in Washington has nearly tripled since 2019.

Don’t miss this impactful, informative event! Register today to secure your seat: https://lifelineconnections.org/a-lifeline-to-wellbeing/

To sponsor the event or for more information, email: Development@lifelineconnections.org.

                                                                      ###

¹https://www.nami.org/NAMI/media/NAMI-Media/StateFactSheets/WashingtonStateFactSheet.pdf

²https://doh.wa.gov/data-and-statistical-reports/washington-tracking-network-wtn/opioids#:~:text=Washington%20experienced%20a%20similar%20trend,2019%20to%201619%20in%202021.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, Oct. 10, 2025

For more information, visit the Board of Trustees website.

UPDATE 9/12/25 12:35pm

On Thursday evening, September 11^th, Miguel Bravo was located and detained in Marion County, Oregon.

On Friday morning, September 12^th, Bravo was arrested on a felony warrant for the crime of Assault in the First Degree-Domestic Violence and is pending extradition to Clark County.

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the public for their assistance during this investigation.

On 9/11/25 at 5:00 a.m., the Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) was dispatched to a disturbance call at a residence at Oaks Mobile & RV Park, 38308 NW Lakeshore Drive, Woodland, Washington.  The caller reported her adult son had stabbed her, and she had now locked herself in her bedroom.  Several agencies responded to assist with the call, including Clark Cowlitz Fire Rescue, Cowlitz Tribal Police, Ridgefield Police, and Woodland Police.  Upon their arrival, the caller’s son had already left.  The adult female victim was treated and transported by ambulance to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit responded to investigate.  The suspect was determined to be 30-year-old Miguel Bravo of Woodland, WA.  He is believed to have fled in a white 2005 Acura TSX with Washington License “CSN7421.”  He is believed to have possession of a knife and should be considered dangerous.  Call 911 if he is observed or call the MCU tip line at 564-397-2847 if you have information about this case.

This investigation is an active and ongoing investigation. When additional information can be shared, this release will be updated.  Driver's license picture of Miguel Bravo and a picture of his vehicle from a previous day are attached.

Portland, Ore., September 2, 2025 – As the air turns crisp and the season shifts, SOLVE invites community members across Oregon and Southwest Washington to Fall into Action with SOLVE. At the heart of the season is the Beach & Riverside Cleanup, September 20–28, one of the largest volunteer events of the year. Registration is now open.

“Fall with SOLVE is about restoring and protecting the places we’ve spent the summer exploring,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “It’s about coming together to care for the places that matter most, from keeping school routes safe to preparing green spaces for the months ahead. It’s important to take action before rains wash litter into our waterways, and our local actions have lasting and far-reaching impacts. The Beach & Riverside Cleanup is the centerpiece of this season, connecting local efforts to global movements that protect our rivers, beaches, and public lands.”

Connecting Local Action to Global Movements
The 2025 Beach & Riverside Cleanup, in partnership with OnPoint Community Credit Union, spans ten days of statewide volunteer opportunities, from the Oregon Coast to urban neighborhoods in Oregon and SW Washington, and is tied to three days of global significance:

• International Coastal Cleanup Day (September 20): Uniting millions of volunteers worldwide to protect waterways from harmful trash and debris.
• National Public Lands Day (September 27): The nation’s largest single-day volunteer event focused on trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and native tree planting.
• World Rivers Day (September 28): Celebrating rivers and emphasizing the need to protect them.

For nearly four decades, the Beach & Riverside Cleanup has brought communities together to protect beaches, rivers, parks, and public lands. Over 60 projects are already open for registration, with opportunities for families, neighbors, community groups, and businesses to take part. From source to sea, volunteers will remove litter, restore natural areas, and create a visible difference across the region.

2025 Sponsors

SOLVE's Beach & Riverside Cleanup 2025, in partnership with OnPoint Community Credit Union, is proudly supported by Chevron, Clean Water Services, Harper Houf Peterson Righellis Inc., Knife River, KOIN, Malibu Rum, Metro, National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF), Oregon Parks and Recreation, Tillamook, and Wells Fargo.

What You’ll See This Fall

With cooler weather and the energy of back-to-school season, SOLVE volunteers will:

• Clean up litter from neighborhoods, trails, parks, and waterways
• Restore habitats by removing invasive ivy and weeds
• Prepare green spaces for winter with mulch and maintenance
• Join forces with schools and community groups to inspire youth action 

Key Fall Events:

While the Beach & Riverside Cleanup is the centerpiece, Fall with SOLVE also offers a variety of ways for communities to get involved:

• Pick It Up!: Large-scale community cleanups in Milwaukie (September 6), Bend (September 20), and Vancouver (October 10) bring together residents, businesses, and volunteers to give city centers a fresh start this fall.
• Waterway Cleanup Series Wrap-Up (October 15): The summer-long effort in partnership with Clackamas Water Environment Services concludes with a cleanup at High Rocks Park, Gladstone.
• Monthly Detrash Portland Events: Ongoing cleanups in Portland’s business districts, focused on revitalizing key gathering areas.
• Neighborhood & School Route Cleanups: Supporting cleaner, safer pathways for students and families as the school year begins.
• Restoration Projects: Removing invasive species, mulching, and preparing natural areas for the winter months.

Get Involved
SOLVE invites individuals, families, schools, and businesses to take part in Fall with SOLVE by signing up for a project, hosting a cleanup, or supporting restoration efforts. Whether joining solo or with friends, family, or coworkers, every action helps protect waterways, restore habitats, and strengthen communities.

Looking ahead, there are even more ways to celebrate the season with purpose, from Giving Tuesday contributions to corporate volunteer projects and sponsorship opportunities. Support during this time helps sustain SOLVE’s year-round work and expand its impact across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

For more information and to sign up, visit solveoregon.org/seasons.

About SOLVE 

SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information. 

September 12, 2024

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

Nye Beach health advisory lifted

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today lifted a public health advisory for contact with ocean water at Nye Beach, located in Lincoln County.

The health authority issued the advisory Sept. 11, after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.

Results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk.

Officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.

Oregon agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and  the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

###

PACIFIC CITY, Oregon — Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will host a townhall meeting 3 p.m. Friday, October 3 at Kiawanda Community Center to discuss the proposed setback dike to replace the one at  Sitka Sedge State Natural Area.

OPRD and its partner, Tillamook Estuaries Partnership, are designing a proposed setback dike to replace the tide control function of the existing dike, which has been failing. This meeting will update the community on the progress of that planning, which is moving forward. 

The informational meeting will be held in person at 34600 Cape Kiwanda Drive in Pacific City and include a presentation and time for questions.

For those who cannot attend the meeting in person, it will be livestreamed via webinar and recorded. Join the webinar at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89208642216 or find a recording online afterward at OPRD’s YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkqL6iVPBrfCTO27cNmCTwg.

Internet speed issues in the area have made past audio and video streams of meeting content choppy. OPRD will continue to try to find ways of improving webinar audio and video quality.

Visit the website to learn more about the project, including a fact page on the right-hand side.

PORTLAND, Ore.— Defendant Julie Winters, 46, of Portland, made a first appearance in
federal court yesterday after being charged by criminal complaint with assaulting a federal officer
and resisting arrest.

According to court documents, on August 20, 2025, Winters became hostile when deputies from
the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) attempted to place Winters under arrest for violating the
conditions of her pretrial release for an earlier charge of assaulting a federal law enforcement
officer. Winters began to fight and resisted arrest. After several minutes, the deputies were able
to handcuff and escort Winters to a holding cell. A short time later in the holding cell, Winters
had a medical incident, and the Deputy U.S. Marshals provided immediate care. The Deputy
U.S. Marshals removed the restraints as they waited for additional medical personnel to respond.
As soon as the restraints were removed, Winters began fighting with the Deputy U.S. Marshals.
Winters grabbed a Deputy U.S. Marshal by the hair at the base of the scalp and began to whip
the Deputy U.S. Marshal around by the hair.

Winters was on pretrial release for a separate incident on June 24, 2025, for which she was
indicted on two counts of attempted assault on an officer and intimidation of a federal officer
with a dangerous weapon.

According to court documents, on June 24, 2025, officers observed Winters attempting to light
an incendiary device next to the guard shack of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
office. As Federal Protective Service officers engaged with Winters, she pulled a large knife
from her backpack and began waiving the blade toward the officers. Winters threw the knife at
an officer, but it did not strike the officer. Winters began to flee but an officer deployed a taser,
bringing Winters to the ground. As officers attempted to secure Winters, she pulled a second
large knife from her waistband. Officers finally disarmed Winters and arrested her.

The case is being investigated by the United States Marshal Service and the FBI and is being
prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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

SANTIAM STATE FOREST, Ore.—A group of Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) experts shared management insights, challenges and lessons learned from the recovery efforts in the Santiam State Forest after the 2020 wildfires with a team of South Korean researchers and graduate students from Oregon State University recently. 

“Oregon is known all over the world as one of the best, if not the best, in forest management both in the private and public sectors,” said Dr. Heesung Woo, Assistant Professor of Advanced Forestry Systems, Forest Engineering, Resources and Management at Oregon State University. “These researchers will be key to developing better forest management policy in South Korea and for them to see in person the forest and impact of large fires on the forest, then get to discuss how to recover from large fires with the ODF staff is invaluable.”

The day-long field tour in the Santiam included stops and discussions at burned areas, completed salvage logging areas, and places that had been replanted with trees.

“One big takeaway I’ve learned from this visit is the importance of good access to forests through a basic road system,” said Dr. Sanghoon Chung, from the South Korean National Institute of Forest Sciences.  “In Oregon, I was struck by how forest roads played a vital role not only in enabling the deployment of ground-based equipment for building firebreaks and controlling wildfires, but also in supporting post-fire recovery by transporting seedlings and facilitating salvage logging. It was a powerful example for us to learn from.”

While the historical and social context of Korea’s forests differs from that of Oregon, the commitment to post-wildfire restoration remains equally strong. Forest recovery and restoration are entangled with complex social, policy, and economic interests.

“Conflicts among stakeholders are inevitable during the forest restoration process, and relying on one-sided claims rarely leads to reasonable outcomes. What is essential, however, is our collective commitment to ensuring that forests can once again deliver their full range of vital functions,” said Chung.

The group plans to apply the lessons and information ODF provided to shape their forests. 

 “These researchers and the students in this group who choose to go back will be key in developing forest policy now and in the future,” said Dr. Woo. “ODF has given us great insights and many things to consider.”

Even with all the challenges, Dr. Woo is optimistic about the future forests of South Korea.

“Many people here don’t realize how small South Korea is,” said Dr. Woo. “It’s only about 40 percent the size of Oregon, yet nearly 64 percent of the country is covered by forests. So, with the small size, we have a better chance of making changes quicker to promote healthy forests.  We also see how Oregon has a cooperative social license with many groups to work together to improve forests, and we hope to gain interest from our people to value and care about the forest in the same way.”

Although there is no formal agreement between South Korea and Oregon on sharing forest research and management, the relationship has been strong for years

.

“One of the first tours I ever gave working for ODF was to a South Korean delegation in 2015,” said Kyle Kaupp, ODF’s Santiam Unit Forester.  “It’s been amazing now to share more than 10 years of great work and lessons learned the hard way in the same forest with this group.  They understand the challenges of forest management, and hopefully, we gave them some perspective and practical lessons on how to do that better back home.”

For more on the Santiam recovery efforts, visit: Oregon Department of Forestry : Restoring the Santiam State Forest : Recreation, education & interpretation : State of Oregon

For more on the South Korean Forest Service, visit: Korea Forest Service - Forest In Korea > Korean Forests at a Glance

The City of Salem announced that an overflow of untreated sewage occurred into Croisan Creek on Sept. 11, 2025, at about 2 p.m. near 888 Coburn St. S. City utility crews were immediately dispatched to the location and cleared the blockage by 2:45 pm. About 10 gallons of untreated sewage were spilled. Findings indicate the cause of the overflow is due to roots in a sewer manhole. Public Works staff is following up with further site assessment to ensure there are no further obstructions.

Signs have been posted to warn residents to avoid water contact in Croisan Creek due to potentially high levels of bacteria. Water quality samples are being taken and will continue to be taken until the results indicate that the issue has been cleared. Any bacteria that entered the site should be flushed out of the water body in the next few days.

If you see an overflowing manhole or wish to report a spill, please call the Public Works 

Department Dispatch Center at 503-588-6311. 

Everyone can do their part to prevent sewer backups and overflows by keeping sewers free of fats, oils, rags, and grease. Learn more about Sanitary Sewer Overflows and the steps taken by the City of Salem to reduce these events. 

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167.

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

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve July 23, 2025, Meeting Minutes

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

    Presented by Cindy Park

4. Inquiry Closure Memos – Information Only

    Presented by Cindy Park

5. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – October 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

The following message was sent to families and staff of Evergreen Public Schools:

Dear Evergreen Community,

I am so happy to confirm that classes in Evergreen Public Schools will begin tomorrow, September 12. The PSE Large Group classified union informed us tonight that its members have approved the contract that their leaders agreed to late Wednesday.

We will have more information in the coming days about how we will make up the 12 instructional days students have missed during the union’s strike. For tonight and tomorrow, we will focus on having our students back in the classroom, and our staff giving them the education they deserve.

Thank you to everyone in the EPS community for your grace and understanding.

Sincerely,

Dr. Christine Moloney, Superintendent

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham Police are asking for help from the public identifying a person who burglarized Gresham City Hall over the weekend.  Surveillance video captured the suspect breaking into several offices early Saturday morning.  The thief targeted primarily laptops, small electronics, and City-issued credit cards. 

Most of the electronics were obsolete devices awaiting disposal.  City staff had already removed the hard drives from several laptops at part of the disposal process, and the data on the remaining devices is encrypted.  No critical City systems or data were accessed or affected. 

The majority of the stolen property was recovered a few blocks from City Hall, apparently having been abandoned by the thief. 

Anyone who recognizes the suspect is asked to call the GPD tip line at 503-618-2719 or toll-free at 1-888-989-3505.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council will hold a special meeting 10 am Monday, Sept. 15, to interview two candidates for an open position on District Court. The position is open due to Judge Kelli E. Osler retiring on Dec. 31, 2025. Councilors will interview Megan Peyton and Erin Priest.

The special meeting will be hybrid with both in person and online viewing options. The in-person meeting will be on the sixth floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. The meeting also will be on the Webex

platform. More information including how to watch online is available on the county website at Clark County Council Meetings | Clark County.

The Sandy Fire District Board of Directors will hold a regular board meeting on Wednesday, September 17, at 5:00 p.m. Agenda items include regular monthly division reports.

If you would like to provide public comment during the meeting, please sign up by completing the Sandy Fire District Public Meeting Comments form by Wednesday, September 17, at 2:00 p.m.

The public can attend either by remote video conferencing or in person at the Sandy Fire District Station 71 Annex building (17459 Bruns Ave., Sandy, OR 97055). If you would like to attend online or by phone, please access Sandy Fire’s website for the Zoom meeting link and passcode at: https://sandyfire.org/about/board. 

RELEASE DATE:               Sept. 09, 2025
CASE NUMBER:                 25-37143

Gresham, Ore.— UPDATE: Gracie Hall has not been located, and Gresham police continue to ask anyone with information about her whereabouts to call 911.

Gresham Police is asking for the public’s assistance with locating a missing 15-year-old who was last seen leaving her Gresham High School in the 1200 block of N Main Ave.

Gracie Hall left school just after 7 a.m. yesterday and has not returned. She is described as a White female with brown hair, is 5-feet and 6-inches tall and weighs 130 pounds. Gracie was last seen wearing a blue hoodie with palm trees, blue jeans, and black and white Nike shoes. Gracie’s family is concerned because she is missing her medication.

If anyone has information about Gracie’s whereabouts, they are asked to call 911.

###30###
 

The Board of Directors for Clackamas Fire District will hold a regular board meeting on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Agenda items for the regular board meeting will include monthly division reports, employee introductions, two life saving award presentations, board member training, election of board officers, board policy manual review, labor agreement update, requests for board approval of Resolution 25-03 for interfund loan transfer, board approval of a contract for HVAC replacement and, under ORS192.660(2)(a)(b) and ORS192.660(2)(i) an executive session. 

If you would like to provide public comment during the meeting, you must sign up by Monday, September 15, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Please sign up by filling out the Public Meeting Comments form on our website.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Media hotline: 503-813-6018

Low water levels on Lewis River lead to additional boat ramp closure

ARIEL, Wash. (Sept. 11, 2025) Dry conditions across the Pacific Northwest continue to impact PacifiCorp's reservoirs on the Lewis River. Currently, water inflow to Swift, Yale, and Merwin reservoirs is about 66% of normal levels for this time of year. As a result, Merwin Reservoir will be drawn down to lower water levels.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which regulates the operation of PacifiCorp’s reservoirs, requires the company to maintain minimum water flows downstream of Merwin Dam to protect and support federally listed fish species. With these requirements and under dry conditions, PacifiCorp has distributed available water between the three reservoirs.

To meet the September license flow requirement from Merwin Dam, and to maintain availability of the Swift Forest Camp boat ramp to support the replacement of a fish barrier, Merwin Reservoir will need to be drawn down to lower-than-normal elevations.

Because of the lower water levels, the Speelyai Park boat ramp will be closed beginning September 15, 2025. However, the Cresap Bay Park boat ramp will remain open and available through September 30, 2025, providing boaters with continued access to Merwin Reservoir.

Additionally, the Swift Forest Camp boat ramp will be closed starting September 30 to allow for the drawdown of Swift Reservoir in order to refill Merwin Reservoir. The Speelyai Park boat ramp will reopen as soon as the Merwin reservoir reaches an elevation of 227 feet.

We understand the inconvenience that the reservoir drawdowns and boat ramp closures may cause. PacifiCorp will notify the public of any changes from the above schedule should conditions change. 

Check the website to learn more about notifications regarding boat launch closures and other low water impacts.   

###

About Pacific Power

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

A Eugene area millwright is the latest winner of Oregon's Game Megabucks, after claiming an $8.1 million jackpot in the August 16 drawing.

The ticket was sold at the Alvadore Gas & Store, located in the unincorporated community in Lane County, Ore. It’s the first jackpot win for store owners Hukam and Chandni Sharma, who earn a bonus check of $81,000 for selling the winning ticket.

“It’s something I never expected because nothing like this happens here,” said Chandni Sharma. “Our community is so excited for us.”

Sharma said the couple plans to reinvest the bonus money into their family business by adding a kitchen and deli to the store to serve meals. It’s something their customers, many of whom work on nearby farms, have been asking for.  

“It’s exciting to see a locally owned business continue to invest in their future,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “The impact of a bonus like this can really have a ripple effect in the community.”

Oregon’s Game Megabucks has some of the most favorable big prize jackpot game odds in the world. In 2024, a Milwaukie man was the winner of an $8.4 million Megabucks jackpot. The jackpot resets to $1 million after someone wins. 

The Oregon Lottery recommends that you sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim any prize. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Players have one year from the date of a drawing to claim their prize.

Media members can find photos from today’s event here.

Celebrating 40 years of selling games since April 25, 1985, Oregon Lottery has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public schools, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.

The Washington County Sheriff's Office is accepting applications from community members to serve on the Enhanced Sheriff's Patrol District (ESPD) Advisory Committee. The Committee works with the Sheriff and other officials from the Sheriff's Office to review and offer recommendations regarding the level and type of police service in ESPD. The Committee advises the Sheriff on strategic goals and direction for the law enforcement district. The Committee will consider other long-range opportunities for enhanced law enforcement and community collaboration in the future.

ESPD provides enhanced patrol response to over 240,000 residents in the urban areas outside of cities in Washington County, including Bethany, Cedar Mill, Cedar Hills, Aloha, Reedville, Garden Home, Metzger, Rock Creek, Raleigh Hills, Bull Mountain, Bonny Slope, West Slope, Oak Hills, and more. There are 130 Sheriff's Deputies serving the community members in the district. The Sheriff's Office has continuously been nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) since 2004.

Committee members serve a two-year term. Applicants must pass a criminal background check and be residents or business owners in the ESPD. Applications can be obtained online at Washington County OR: Boards, by contacting April Frohnert at april_frohnert@washingtoncountryor.gov, or by calling 503-846-6910.

The deadline to submit your application is October 28, 2025.

For Immediate Release                                                                              Contact: Courtney Dodds

September 11, 2025                                                                                            Cell: 971-275-2334

Media Advisory: Union Gospel Mission Grand Opening for New Women and Children’s Home

Portland, Ore., - On Saturday, September 13^th at 11am Union Gospel Mission is celebrating the grand opening of Angela’s House at 18555 NW Rock Creek Blvd, Portland, OR 97229.

This new building will provide addiction recovery and transitional housing for women and children escaping homelessness, hunger, addiction and abuse. This new home is 53,000 square feet, has 52 resident rooms, and will provide a home for up to 80 women and children at a time. It has an education center, a children’s activity center, a commercial kitchen, a counseling center, a courtyard, living rooms and a chapel.

This is an invite only event. If you would like to learn more or help the Mission ensure that this program can serve the increased number of women and children who will come in for support visit: ugmportland.org/welcome-home

About Union Gospel Mission: Union Gospel Mission has been serving Portland since 1927. Union Gospel Mission provides meals, shelter, and recovery for those experiencing hunger, homelessness, addiction, and abuse. Contact Union Gospel Mission at 503-274-4483, ugmportland.org or on social media @ugmpdx

# # #

The next regular public meeting of the FVRLibraries Board of Trustees will be held on Monday, September 15, 6:00 pm, at Woodland Community Library. It will be a hybrid (in-person/online) meeting. https://www.fvrl.org/board-trustees 

PRIVATE TIMBER LANDS
 

Those who enjoy traveling the back roads of our private timber lands may have found locked gates or restricted access. This leaves some people to believe private timber companies deny access to their lands simply because they don’t want private citizens on their property. This is not the case.

With the exception of active commercial use such as logging or harvest of other forest products, the closures are in reaction to the ever-increasing incidents of offensive littering, abandonment of vehicles, theft of forest products, and acts of criminal mischief. Some common acts of criminal mischief include destruction of property caused by 4X4s and ATVs riding in unapproved areas, destruction of road access gates, and more.

Damage and theft detract from the natural beauty of our forests and incurs costs for cleaning, repairing, and removal of vehicles and garbage. These costs are passed onto private timber companies as well as taxpayers in the county.

What can each of us do to stop the defacing of our forests and waterways? During your visit and when you leave forest lands and waterways:

• Read signs posted at entry points into private & public lands – signs include important information including log truck activity.
• Report criminal acts to law enforcement.
• Report located dump sites or abandoned vehicles.
• Stay informed of possible land use restrictions. This information is usually posted at each access.
• When in doubt about access, contact the landowner or your Lincoln County Sheriff’s office Forest Patrol at (541)-265-4277.
• Do not discard glass, cans, rubbish, trash, garbage, debris or litter other than in receptacles provided for these items.
• Report anyone observed hauling trash or debris into our forests.
• Consider bringing a trash bag or two to pick up trash you observe.
• Do not discard any glass, cans, rubbish, trash, garbage, debris or litter in any waters of the state.
• Do not drain, cause, or permit to be drained, sewage or the drainage from a cesspool, septic tank, recreational or camping vehicle waste holding tank or other contaminated source, upon the land of another without permission of the owner, or upon any public way.
• When target shooting, be sure to pick up brass, targets, and anything else used during your visit.
• Do not permit any rubbish, trash, garbage, debris or other refuse to be thrown from a vehicle you are operating.

Our forestlands, public and private, should be treasured and protected by everyone. Through our efforts, we can strive to regain the trust of the private timber owners. The challenge for each of us is to take pride in where we live and work and clean up our county.

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

###

BEND, Ore. – The Oregon Department of State Lands (DSL) has selected a buyer for the Stevens Road Tract, a more than 260-acre property in southeast Bend. Hayden Homes, a privately owned homebuilder based in Redmond, Oregon, will develop a new neighborhood based on the requirements of House Bill 3318 (2021). 

The Stevens Road Tract, located near 27th Street and Reed Market Road, is poised to become an unprecedented new community that will help meet the growing demand for housing in Bend. This planned development will include approximately 2,500 residential units. Guided by state legislation and in partnership with the City of Bend, the neighborhood will guarantee long-term housing affordability through 20 acres of deed-restricted affordable and workforce units for rent and homeownership. A significant portion of these deed-restricted homes will be prioritized for local educators and school district workforce. Stevens Road Tract will also include market-rate housing, parks, and transportation options that support walking, biking, and transit.

Once finalized, the land sale proceeds will be added to Oregon’s Common School Fund. The Fund generates earnings that are distributed to public school districts across the state each year.

“The Stevens Road Tract reflects what is possible when state lands are managed with both purpose and vision,” said Kaitlin Lovell, director of the Oregon Department of State Lands. “This sale will support Oregon’s public schools through the Common School Fund and help address a critical need for affordable housing in one of our state’s fastest-growing communities. It is especially meaningful that educators, those who dedicate their lives to our children’s futures, will be among those who benefit most.”

Hayden Homes is known for its track record in building homes that working families can afford. The company’s nonprofit organization, First Story, provides zero-down, zero-interest home loans to qualifying buyers, including educators and first-time homeowners.

“Hayden Homes is honored to be selected for this innovative housing project,” said Steve Klingman, president of Hayden Homes. “Stevens Road Tract will impact generations of Oregonians not only by providing attainable homeownership and long-term housing affordability in Bend, but also through an investment in public schools statewide. Our local educators are hometown heroes who are instrumental in building a strong community. Hayden Homes is proud of our longstanding commitment to building homes priced for educators and other hardworking Oregonians.” 

The sale is being managed by Cushman & Wakefield, which also represented the state in the successful sale of the adjacent Stevens Ranch property in 2020. Together, the two developments will add more than 600 acres of planned housing and community infrastructure to southeast Bend.

.

###

www.oregon.gov/dsl

Oregon Talking Book & Braille Advisory Council Meeting

September 19, 2025

Online

Kirk Wagner, Chair
 Agenda

Any person may address the Advisory 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.
 
NOTE: The times of all agenda items are approximate and subject to change.

The following message was sent to families and staff of Evergreen Public Schools:

Dear EPS Community,

I am pleased to announce that late Wednesday night Evergreen Public Schools reached a tentative agreement with the PSE Large Group classified union. 

Union leaders have scheduled a ratification vote for Thursday, and informed me they will share the results with me shortly before 8:00 p.m., at which time I will send a message out to our staff and families. If the contract is approved, school will start on Friday, September 12.

Sincerely,

Dr. Christine Moloney, Superintendent

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sept. 10, 2025

Contact: Heather Hendersen, committee assistant, estlands@odf.oregon.gov">committee.of.family.forestlands@odf.oregon.gov

SALEM, Ore. — The Committee for Family Forestlands (CFF) will meet virtually on Wednesday, Sept. 17 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the meeting agenda on the  CFF web page. 

The morning agenda includes an opportunity for public comment followed by updates regarding:

• Forest Resources Division

• Small Forestland Owner (SFO) Assistance and Incentives

• SFO Office Training

• SFISH/SFO Support and Forest Health

• Board of Forestry.

Scheduled after lunch is:
 

• Discussion of the open conservation position

• A presentation by committee member Dave Bugni: “Where’s My Newly Replanted Forest? The importance of Attaining Free-to-Grow Status”

• Roundtable discussion.
   

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

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

September 10, 2025-Redmond, Oregon — Redmond Fire and Rescue is proud to announce its official recognition as a Peds Ready EMS agency by the Oregon Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) Program. This designation reflects the department’s commitment to providing high-quality emergency medical and trauma care to pediatric patients in the Redmond community.

The Oregon EMSC Program reviewed, verified, and accepted Redmond Fire and Rescue’s application, granting initial recognition through October 31, 2027. Renewal of this recognition will occur every two years, with the first renewal reminder scheduled for August 2, 2027.

As part of the recognition, Redmond Fire and Rescue will receive a certificate and decals for each licensed ambulance vehicle. While affixing the decals is encouraged to promote awareness, it is not mandatory.

“We are honored to be recognized as a Peds Ready EMS agency,” said Luke Jerome, EMS Training Captain for Redmond Fire and Rescue. “This achievement underscores our dedication to delivering exceptional emergency care to children and families in our community.”

The Oregon EMSC Program may feature recognized agencies in quarterly reports and on its official website, highlighting their efforts to improve pediatric emergency services across the state.

Rachel Ford, MPH, Program Manager for the Oregon EMSC Program, expressed appreciation for Redmond Fire and Rescue’s commitment:

“Redmond Fire and Rescue is going above and beyond in their care of pediatric patients. The Oregon EMSC Program thanks them for their dedication to the provision of pediatric emergency medical and trauma care in their community.”

For more information about the Oregon EMSC Program and the Peds Ready EMS recognition, visit Oregon Health Authority – EMS for Children.

At its September 9, 2025, meeting, the Ridgefield School District Board of Directors unanimously voted to change the district’s elementary grade configuration to a kindergarten through 5th grade model, beginning with the 2026-27 school year. The change will coincide with the opening of the district’s third elementary school, and a move to a 6th-8th grade middle school model.
 

Current Sunset Ridge Intermediate School Principal Todd Graves and Assistant Principal Stephanie Goad have been selected as the administrative team for the NEW Sunset Ridge Elementary School. Ridgefield’s Elementary #3 will carry on the Sunset Ridge name, the Coyotes mascot, and the legacy of excellence of Sunset Ridge Intermediate. 
 

Superintendent Dr. Jenny Rodriquez expressed excitement about the Board’s decision. “This is an important milestone for Ridgefield as we continue to grow,” said Dr. Rodriquez. “The move to a K–5 model reflects the overwhelming support of our families and staff, and it positions us to provide the very best learning environments for our students. We are especially confident in the leadership of Principal Todd Graves and Assistant Principal Stephanie Goad as they guide the new Sunset Ridge Elementary into its first school year.”
 

The district received 1,099 responses to its Elementary Grade Survey, with 78% of respondents favoring the change from the current Kinder-4th Grade model to a Kinder-5th Grade model. 
 

With the Board’s vote completed, Ridgefield School District will now begin the process of re-drawing attendance boundaries, which is expected to take several months. Staffing decisions for Sunset Ridge Elementary will follow once the boundary process is complete. We will update families and the community throughout the process.
 

Sunset Ridge Elementary is scheduled to open at the start of the 2026–27 school year. You can view construction progress on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaHefsnj4Jw.

September 10, 2025

Media contacts: Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8843, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Nye Beach health advisory issued Sept 10

High bacteria levels prompt OHA recommendation to avoid water contact

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EVENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  -- September 10, 2025
Contact: Dianne Danowski Smith or Jeff Cole, Oregon Bioscience Association
news@oregonbio.org | linkedin.com/company/oregon-bioscience-association

Spotlight -- on Workforce, Smart Bio Policy, and AI in Health and Bio -- Shines at Oregon Bio’s 2025 Conference and Innovation Showcase September 29 – 30

(PORTLAND, Ore. - September 8, 2025)  — Oregon’s bioscience ecosystem will converge this fall at Oregon Bio 2025, the annual Conference and Innovation Showcase, taking place Monday, Sept. 29, and Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, at Portland Community College’s Rock Creek campus.

This year’s theme highlights how Oregon’s bioscience leaders are advancing innovation from lab to market while building a resilient workforce. The two-day program brings together industry executives, entrepreneurs, researchers, policymakers, and students to exchange insights, celebrate achievements, and foster collaborations shaping the future of biotech and life sciences in the Pacific Northwest. Plus, the renowned event centerpiece, the Innovation Showcase, is on par with its significant lineup of emerging researchers and startups.

“This custom-curated Oregon Bio event will feature a comprehensive and much anticipated scope of industry intel, resources and thought leadership; we’ll be hosting researchers, investors, strategists, operational and manufacturing experts, policy leaders and growth-minded bio professionals throughout this 2-day event,”  said Tim Brown, head of External Manufacturing Operations and Procurement at Vir Biotechnology Inc. and Oregon Bio’s Chair of the Board.

“This custom-curated Oregon Bio event will feature a comprehensive and much anticipated scope of industry intel, resources and thought leadership; we’ll be hosting researchers, investors, strategists, operational and manufacturing experts, policy leaders and growth-minded bio professionals throughout this 2-day event,”  said Tim Brown, head of External Manufacturing Operations and Procurement at Vir Biotechnology Inc. and Oregon Bio’s Chair of the Board.

“We are pulling in national and international bioscience and med tech pros and just as exciting, we’ll get to check out the emerging research and scientific collaboration through the Innovation Showcase,” said Liisa Bozinovic, Oregon Bio’s executive director. “Registration is now open; see our new event platform and start curating your conference.”

Conference Highlights:

• Thought leadership: Interface with Sophorn Cheang, Director of Business Oregon, and nationally recognized bioscience leaders
• Interplay: Discussion with state legislators around the intersection of advancing innovation through smart policy
• Federal insights: Presentations from national leaders at the National Institutes of Health
• Take-away tactics: Flash talks and breakout sessions covering workforce, discovery, funding, AI in healthcare, and more
• Call outs: Oregon’s bioscience excellence awards will honor the Bioscience Woman of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year and Legislator of the Year citing leading bio pros as well as networking at the well-known ‘Bio On’ reception
• Resourcing to get it done: Roundtables providing information on demand with tools, funding pathways and support
• Career integration: Navigating the Bioscience Job Market free session and networking opportunities throughout the events.

Innovation Showcase

The Innovation Showcase Pitch Challenge is a centerpiece of the conference, featuring Oregon and southwest Washington-based researchers and entrepreneurs competing in two tracks of Research and Startup Pitches. Industry experts will judge each entry and conference attendees will participate through votes in the People’s Choice category. Finalist presenters include:

Basic Research

• Arielle Isakharov, Ph.D. candidate, OHSU | Exploring Overlooked Neurons in the Retina
• Kenneth Riley, Jr., Ph.D. candidate, OHSU | Reconstruction of the Epigenetic Landscape from Fragmented DNA in Blood

Translational Research

• Danica Bojovic, Ph.D. candidate, Vollum Institute, OHSU | Vascular Dysfunction: Early Warning Sign for Dementia
• Maryam Sarlak, Ph.D. | Glucose Biosensor
• Tim Valuev, M.D. candidate, OHSU | Anatora: 3D Printing for Medical Education & Surgical Precision

Early-Stage Startups

• Danielle Benoit, Ph.D., Professor of Engineering, Knight Campus, UO and Co-founder, AsteriaRx | AsteriaRx: Musculoskeletal Healing Through Advanced Drug Delivery
• Daniel Gareau, Ph.D., Founder, SurgiVance | SurgiVance: Advanced Pathology for the Future of Medicine
• Nataliia Shchotkina, Ph.D., Post-doc Scholar, Knight Campus, UO | Next-Gen Tissue Repair Scaffolds for Affordable Regenerative Medicine

Later-Stage Startups

• Eduardo Ceballos, CEO, xBiologix | xBiologix: Color Biopsies in Clinics
• Linta Mustafa, MSc., CEO and Co-founder, Vitract | Gut Microbiome Genomics Platform for Precision Health
• Craig Stolarczyk, MBA, CEO and Co-founder, SynPlexity | Enabling High-Throughput Screening to Advance Biology

Registration and Venue

Venue: Portland Community College, Rock Creek Campus, 17705 N.W. Springville Road, Portland, OR 97229. Parking is available on-site for $5/day. Registration includes both days of programming and the ever-popular “Bio On” networking event. Register now at www.oregonbio.org/oregon-bio-2025:

• Oregon Bio Members:  $200
• Non-Members (Industry/Academic):  $325
• Non-Member Service Partners: $425

# # #

About Oregon Bioscience Association

The Oregon Bioscience Association is the unified voice for the local bioscience community, driving economic growth and impact of the life sciences sector across Oregon, southwest Washington, and the Pacific Northwest region.

Anchored in the mission of helping the medical device and health tech sectors grow, Oregon Bio offers members access to enterprise support, workforce and economic development, promotion of research collaborations, educational programs, leadership development, advocacy and networking.

The association’s leadership and work with national partners, including the BIO Innovation Organization (BIO), AdvaMed, and the Medical Device Manufacturers Association, have helped elevate Oregon and southwest Washington’s life sciences footprint.  According to the 2025 Economic Impact Report, data show $21.2 billion in economic output, including $6.8 billion in income and 74,925 jobs for $2.1 billion in wages across a growing 1,995 business establishments. Oregon’s current share of NIH funding is $346 million its last fiscal year. This represents high growth in every category over more than two decades.

For more information about the Oregon Bioscience Association, please visit www.oregonbio.org. Connect with us on LinkedIn.

The new tower is being funded by a State of Oregon grant and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds approved by Gresham City Council, with a total cost of $1 million. The new tower will be available for fire training at no additional cost to Gresham taxpayers.

The first phase of the demolition was provided for free by apprentices with the Oregon and South Idaho chapters of the Laborer's International Union of North America (LiUNA). The project served as a training opportunity for LiUNA laborers.

"We are extremely proud to help Gresham Fire Department and Fire District 10 with this hands-on demo project," said LiUna Training Director Brian Davidson. "This project supporting our first responders provides our apprentices with an opportunity to better understand demolition practices on jobsites."

"We are so grateful for the LiUNA team," said Gresham Fire Assistant Chief Jeffrey Hairston. "This is the critical first step toward providing a better training experience for our firefighters."

Woodburn, OR – The Woodburn Police Department (WPD), with the assistance of the Oregon State Police and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, has completed an enhanced two-week school traffic safety enforcement campaign that ran from August 25 through September 5, 2025.

During this period, officers conducted 102 traffic stops in school zones during restricted speed hours. The enforcement effort resulted in:

• 63 stops for speeding
• 17 stops for operating a vehicle while using a mobile electronic device (cellphone)
• 22 stops for other traffic violations

In total, 76 citations were issued, along with 44 warnings.

Although the focused enhanced enforcement period has ended, the Woodburn Police Department reminds all drivers to remain vigilant when traveling through school zones. Safe and cautious driving helps protect students, school staff, and community members throughout the school year.

New users: get connected.

Current users: make sure your info is current. 

ASTORIA, OR. — If you haven’t signed up for ClatsopALERTS! yet, now is the time. This official emergency notification system delivers urgent alerts by phone, text, email, or TTY/TDD for emergencies that directly affect the addresses you choose. Alerts will include evacuation notices, severe weather warnings, flooding, and police activity. 

How to Sign Up 

1. Go to clatsopcounty.gov/em/page/clatsopalerts. 
2. Click “Sign Up” and create a new account. 
3. Enter your contact information and choose how you’d like to receive alerts (phone, text, email, or TTY/TDD). 
4. Add up to five addresses you want monitored. Those can be your home, work, school, a loved one’s home, or anywhere important to you. 
5. Customize your subscription. Choose specific locations, weather alerts, and provide lifesaving health information. 
6. Save your profile and keep your login handy for future updates. 

Signing up only takes a few minutes and ensures you’ll get the right alert at the right time. Watch this video for step-by-step tutorial.  

Already Signed Up? Update Your Information 

If you’re already a ClatsopALERTS! subscriber, step two is just as important: make sure your contact information and locations are up to date. 

“An outdated phone number, old address, or missing email could mean missing the alert when you need to act quickly,” said Jen Munson, Clatsop County Emergency Management Community Engagement Coordinator. “Just like scheduling an oil change or a 6-month dental cleaning, we recommend regular maintenance on your account, such as logging in twice a year to make sure your contact information, locations, and alert preferences are current.” 

Tips for Updating Your Profile 

1. Review your contact methods: phone, text, and email. 
2. Add up to five addresses you want covered: home, work, school, a loved one’s residence, or anywhere important to you. 
3. Include accessibility details, such as disabilities or evacuation needs, so responders have the right information. 
4. Check your subscriptions to make sure you’re signed up for severe weather alerts and other relevant categories. 

Even if you share a household, each person should have their own ClatsopALERTS! account to ensure each person receives lifesaving alerts.  

Update or sign up today at: clatsopcounty.gov/em/page/clatsopalerts 

Don’t wait for the next emergency. Make sure your alerts can find you. 

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports on July 23, 2025, Linn County Sheriff’s Office received the report of a hidden camera in the public bathroom at McKercher Park near Crawfordsville on Highway 228. Deputies responded to the area and immediately began taking steps in attempts to identify the person invading people’s privacy.

Deputies continued to follow up with information through the following weeks which lead them to developing Timothy Lawrence O’Brien, 66, of Eugene as a suspect.  Deputies obtained enough information to serve a search warrant at O’Brien’s private residence on September 8, 2025, where evidence related to the case was seized. As a result of the search warrant, O’Brien was arrested and taken to the Linn County Jail where he was lodged on multiple charges of Invasion of Personal Privacy I and Invasion of Personal Privacy II.

During this investigation, additional evidence was discovered that led law enforcement to believe O’Brien has secretly filmed others with hidden video cameras, specifically juveniles, at locations other than McKercher Park. The locations of where these videos occurred, and the identities of the juveniles are unknown at this time. The Linn County Sheriff’s Office is working closely with the Eugene Police Department to identify any additional victims and locations. Anyone with information regarding O’Brien or his contact with juveniles should contact Sergeant Steven Frambes at 541-967-3950.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council this week held public interviews with six applicants to fill two open seats on District Court. The openings are due to Judge Sonya L. Langsdorf retiring on Sept. 30 and Judge Kelli E. Osler retiring on Dec. 31.

The county council voted to appoint Clark County District Court Commissioner Leslie Lopez to fill the seat currently held by Judge Langsdorf.

Lopez has served as a Court Commissioner since November 2024. Prior to that she worked in the Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, including serving as Chief Civil Deputy. Lopez graduated from Biola University with a degree in organizational leadership/business and received her law degree from Lewis & Clark Law School.

“I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to serve Clark County as a District Court Judge. I thank the Clark County Council for their time, consideration and appointment,” said Lopez.

Additional interviews
Council will hold a second interview session with two of the candidates, Megan Peyton and Erin Priest to decide which one will fill the seat currently held by Judge Osler. The county will announce the interviews when they are scheduled.

“Knowing an appointment to a judge position can represent the pinnacle of one’s career, I want to acknowledge the hard work and commitment to justice of each of these outstanding applicants,” said Council Chair Sue Marshall. “Clark County is grateful for their years of dedicated public service.”

“On behalf of the county, all our best wishes and congratulations to Ms. Lopez in her new role,” said Marshall.

All six District Court seats are up for reelection in 2026.

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

Innovative School Lunch Makeover Award – Elementary Schools
Kelso elementary schools were honored for giving a popular lunch item—the bean and cheese burrito—a healthy and delicious upgrade. Instead of serving a frozen burrito, kitchen teams now hand-roll and assemble a homemade version from scratch. The result: a meal with more protein, more iron, and less sodium than the pre-packaged option. It’s also larger in portion and less expensive to make.

Innovation in the Preparation of School Meals Award – Kelso High School
Kelso High School received national recognition for introducing scratch-made meals featuring local ingredients and raw proteins. The award-winning recipes included:

• Baked Pesto Chicken with Lemon Parmesan Orzo and a Kalama Sourdough Roll
• Bison Meatloaf
• Egg Roll in a Bowl (Asian-seasoned beef with vegetables over rice)

Each recipe follows USDA recipe standardization processes and incorporates fresh sauces and sides, making healthy meals both nutritious and popular.

“We care about every single meal we serve and are honored to be recognized for the extra effort put toward better child nutrition,” said Kaydee Harris, RDN, SNS, and district Nutrition Services Supervisor. “Our team is proud to be a ScratchWorks site, and we continue to move toward more scratch cooking and fewer processed foods.”

Healthy school meals are a cornerstone of student success, supporting growth, development, and academic achievement.

“One of America’s best opportunities to improve child health is by supporting schools in providing tasty and nutritious meals,” said Cindy Long, Administrator of USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service. “These awards highlight the remarkable achievements Kelso School District has made in offering nutritious meals students enjoy.”

Each day, USDA school meal programs reach nearly 30 million children across the country, fueling student success—one tray at a time.

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

A three-day event in southern Oregon will feature a variety of workshops and presentations designed to help employers and workers improve on-the-job safety and health. Topics include hazard identification, fall protection, safety committees, confined spaces, respiratory protection, cultural change, and human resources concerns.

In addition to addressing many safety and health topics, the Southern Oregon Occupational Safety & Health Conference – to be held Oct. 14-16 at the Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites in Ashland – offers a preconference workshop with first aid, CPR, and automated external defibrillator certification, and a professional development workshop on leadership and resolving conflicts. A special guest of the conference, Scott Shumway, principal of Emiment LLC, will lead the Tuesday, Oct. 14, workshop on leadership and conflict resolution.

The conference is a joint effort of the Southern Oregon Chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals and Oregon OSHA.

The three-day event features keynote speakers, including Jeff Crapo of Ethos Consulting Team LLC and Ethos Academy. On Wednesday, Oct. 15, Crapo will engage participants in fostering a positive team culture where people look out for one another, remain motivated under pressure, and communicate effectively – even when delivering tough messages.

Other conference topics include:

• Discussing Our Culture: The Intersection Between Physical and Psychological Safety
• Safety Training for Employees
• Preventing Serious Injuries and Fatalities
• Risk Assessments: Choosing the Right Control Measures
• Practical Strategies for Enhancing Your Safety Culture
• Who’s Minding the Store? Perspectives From Emergency Management

Conference registration fees include early bird pricing and discounts, as well as different pricing for workshops and conference days. More information about conference options, programs, and registration are available online. Register now. For more information about upcoming workplace safety and health conferences visit Oregon OSHA online.

###

About Oregon OSHA:

Oregon OSHA, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. For more information, go to osha.oregon.gov.

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

Embargoed until Friday, September 12, 2025 at 2:28 p.m. 

PORTLAND, Ore. ― VA Portland Health Care System announced today it has earned a five-star rating as part of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 2025 hospital quality ratings.

CMS’s hospital ratings are based on five categories: mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience and timely and effective care. A higher star rating, out of 5, indicates better performance on these quality measures.

Within the last year, VA Portland Health Care System has instituted a number of improvements to better serve Veterans. These include decreasing scheduling wait times, opening several new sites of care, and reducing healthcare-associated infection rates.

"These ratings highlight the excellent care VA Portland Health Care System provides,” said Karla Azcuy, Interim Director, VA Portland Health Care System. “Our job is to continue raising the bar for customer service and convenience throughout the department, so VA Portland Health Care System works better for the Veterans, families, caregivers and survivors we are charged with serving.”

As part of CMS’s 2025 ratings, 77% of VA hospitals that received an Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating received 4 or 5 stars, and no VA hospitals received a one-star rating. More than 90% of VA hospitals with ratings maintained or improved their 2024-star rating.

View the star ratings and methodology for the ratings.

Overall VA improvements during the second Trump Administration

• The backlog of Veterans waiting for VA benefits is down more than 37% since Jan. 20, 2025.
• VA has opened 16 new health care clinics, expanding access for Veterans around the country.
• VA is spending an additional $800 million on infrastructure improvements to ensure department facilities provide safe and effective patient care.
• Since Jan. 20, VA has offered nearly 1 million health care appointments outside of normal operating hours. These early-morning, evening, and weekend appointments are giving Veterans more timely and convenient options for care.
• VA is processing record numbers of disability claims, reaching an all-time fiscal-year high of 2.52 million ratings claims for FY25 as of Aug. 8.

• VA has made it easier and faster for VA-enrolled Veterans to access care from non-VA providers at the department’s expense.
• VA has implemented https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-announces-major-survivor-benefits-reforms/. Click or tap if you trust this link.">major reforms to make it easier for survivors to get benefits.
• VA is https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-names-nine-additional-facilities-that-will-deploy-federal-ehr-in-2026/. Click or tap if you trust this link.">accelerating the deployment of its integrated electronic health record system.
• VA partnered with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to identify and recover $106 million in duplicate billing.
• VA has brought tens of thousands of VA employees https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-announces-return-to-in-person-work-policy/. Click or tap if you trust this link.">back to the office, where we can work better as a team to serve Veterans.

In fiscal year 2025 through June, VA has housed 37,534 homeless Veterans.

TILLAMOOK COUNTY, Ore. (September 10, 2025) – On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 8:25 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Highway 6 near milepost 30 in Tillamook County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Freightliner semi-truck, operated by Scott Lee Gotchall (64) of Portland, was traveling eastbound on Highway 6 near milepost 30 when a pedestrian, Jaime Cristobal Aguilar Herrera (25) of Beaverton, entered the lane of travel for an unknown reason and was struck by the semi-truck.

The pedestrian (Aguilar Herrera) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the semi-truck (Gotchall) was not injured.

The highway was impacted for approximately 3.5 hours during the on-scene investigation.

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

# # #

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

RELEASE DATE:               Sept. 10, 2025
 

Gresham, Ore.— On Sept. 9, 2025, between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., Gresham Police conducted a pedestrian safety mission in the area of E. Burnside Street and 181st Avenue. The mission focused on pedestrian-related violations commonly referred to as “jaywalking.”

Officers made 19 pedestrian stops. Eleven citations were issued for Pedestrian Fail to Obey a Traffic Control Device (ORS 814.020), and eight warnings were given for the same violation.

This mission was part of a larger statewide effort to improve safety through both education and enforcement.

Funding for this pedestrian safety operation was made possible through a grant from Oregon Impact and Oregon’s Department of Transportation.

Gresham Police will continue working with partners such as Oregon Impact to reduce crashes and injuries in our community through education, outreach, and traffic enforcement.

###30###
 

JUDGE FINDS MAN NOT GUILTY OF RECKLESS DRIVING AFTER HE DRIVES THROUGH PARK AND PLAYGROUND BEFORE POSTING TO SOCIAL MEDIA

September 9, 2025

Portland, OR-Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Katharine von Ter Stegge refused to hold a dangerous driver fully accountable despite having his driving crimes posted for the world to see on social media. 

At a bench trial (trial by judge rather than jury),  Judge von Ter Stegge found 33-year-old Oscar Lee Burrell Jr. guilty of only three of 11 charges. Judge von Ter Stegge found Mr. Burrell guilty of the following: (1) Reckless Driving for a March 25, 2025 driving incident in Peninsula Park; and (2) Reckless Driving and Recklessly Endangering Another Person for a March 28, 2025 incident on Interstate-5.

The charges were all misdemeanors.

After her decision, Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez blasted the rulings.

“I strongly disagree with Judge Von Ter Stegge’s evaluation of the facts in this case.

The evidence in this case clearly showed that Mr. Burrell was engaged in wildly reckless behavior including driving a vehicle without using his hands while hanging out the driver side window on Interstate Five. Additionally, the fact that he was driving through Portland city parks and there is video of this, in which you can see at least one child in the park, and that somehow she was able to find him not guilty of charges associated with that is bewildering.”

THE FACTS:

On March 25, 2025, Mr. Burrell filmed himself driving on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard while covering his face, sitting on his vehicle driver side door window, and hanging out that vehicle window.  Mr. Burrell veered into oncoming traffic before driving into Peninsula Park by way of a pedestrian path.  Mr. Burrell proceeded to then do burnouts or “doughnuts” in a grassy area near pickleball courts, trees, and other Peninsula Park property.  Mr. Burrell did so while filming a “selfie” video that he then posted to social media.

Guilty: Reckless Driving

Not Guilty: Recklessly Endangering Another Person; Criminal Mischief 2

On March 27, 2025, Mr. Burrell filmed himself driving into Farragut Park while - again - hanging out of his vehicle. Mr. Burrell drove on a pedestrian path, through a playground, and through city streets while covering his face, laughing, and making various hand gestures.  Mr. Burrell did so - again - while filming a “selfie” video that he then posted to social media.

Not Guilty: Reckless Driving

On March 28, 2025, Mr. Burrell filmed himself driving on Interstate Five. Mr. Burrell passed multiple vehicles while sitting on his vehicle driver side window, hanging out of that window, and steering with his knee. Mr. Burrell did so - yet again - while filming a “selfie” video that he then posted to social media.

Guilty: Reckless Driving; Recklessly Endangering Another Person

Not Guilty: Recklessly Endangering Another Person x 4; Disorderly Conduct 2

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Alex Garcia prosecuted the case for the State.

After the verdict and sentencing he said:

“Mr. Burrell poses a grave risk of danger to members of our community. His driving is egregious. It is scary. I believe that Mr. Burrell will not stop driving dangerously. He is fueled by social media and posting to social media. Mr. Burrell’s conduct is 100% criminal and he will continue to do it for the ‘likes’.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Bureau Officer Zachary Nell for his work on this case.

Burrell was sentenced to no jail time, 18 months bench probation to Judge von Ter Stegge, 80 hours of community service, attending a victim impact panel, taking a high risk driver course, mental health evaluation and treatment if found necessary, and a 90 day license suspension.

###MCDA###

EMBARGOED UNTIL 10 AM ON WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 10, 2025

PORTLAND, Ore. – Emerald ash borer (EAB) is a tiny green beetle from eastern Asia that is having a devastating impact on ash trees in North America, including northwest Oregon.  Across the U.S., millions of ash trees have been killed by the larvae of this pest. The larvae eat tissues under the bark, eventually killing infested trees.

First found in Oregon in 2022 at a school in Forest Grove, this summer the beetle showed up in traps in six new areas. Five of the sites were within the existing EAB quarantine boundary.

A trap was placed this summer at a sixth site in Multnomah County after Peter Van Oss, a private arborist with Teragan and Associates, noticed an ailing green ash tree in the parking lot of the David Douglas Aquatics Center in the Hazelwood-Mill Park area. Van Oss suspected it might be infested with EAB and alerted officials.

City and state officials then inspected the tree Van Oss had reported and saw signs of EAB infestation, such as dieback at the top and serpentine gallery marks under the bark. A single adult insect was trapped and sent to the United States Department of Agriculture, specifically to the Animal Plant Health Inspection Service’s Plant Pathogen Confirmatory Diagnostics Laboratory in Maryland, which confirmed it was EAB.

The other new sites where EAB was found this summer are:

• Hazeldale Park about a mile west of Beaverton
• Killin Wetlands Nature Park near Banks in western Washington County
• Five miles northwest of the town of Yamhill in Yamhill County
• Three miles southeast of Oregon City in Clackamas County
• Bureau of Land Management-administered land east of Scotts Mills in Clackamas County

“The pattern of spread in the eastern U.S. has been that populations at first increase slowly and the rate of natural spread is slow,” said Cody Holthouse, Manager of the Oregon Dept. of Agriculture’s Insect Pest Prevention and Management Program. “But within a few years there is a rapid build-up in the population and it spreads in all directions at a faster pace. That’s exactly what we’re starting to see with these detections.”

Holthouse said EAB is about half an inch in length and is hard to spot with the naked eye. It is not strongly attracted to traps, making early detections in novel locations difficult. “Finding one in a trap usually means there are quite a few already in that area,” he said.

Holthouse said the discovery in southeast Portland puts all of Multnomah County into the EAB quarantine zone. Other quarantined counties include Clackamas, Washington, Marion, and Yamhill counties.

“Quarantine is designed to prevent humans from spreading EAB by limiting movement of firewood or any other plant materials from ash, olive or white fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus),” said Holthouse.

A full list of quarantine regulations can be found here.

The City of Portland has been preparing for EAB’s arrival for years. It removed ash trees from its list of approved street trees in 2019. It completed a comprehensive response plan for dealing with EAB earlier this summer. 

 "Our approach to managing Portland’s urban canopy is rooted in community stewardship, science and long-term resilience," says City Forester Jenn Cairo. "By working with Portlanders to inventory trees and educate folks about best practices, and intentionally planting a diverse range of tree species, we’re building a more adaptable canopy, one that’s better equipped to withstand threats like the Emerald Ash Borer and other invasive pests. This proactive strategy helps safeguard the health of our urban forest for generations to come." 

For the past few summers, the Oregon Dept. of Forestry (ODF), in collaboration with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, made sticky purple traps available to numerous public land managers and soil and water conservation districts that agreed to place and monitor the traps.

“Traps contain a lure and are checked periodically during the summer when adult EAB are flying. It was in those traps that the beetles were found,” said ODF Invasive Species Specialist Wyatt Williams.

While it’s possible EAB could turn up in more traps when they are checked in September, Williams said most adults will have finished their short life cycle, laid their eggs, and died by October or November.

“At that point, further spread is almost entirely by humans moving firewood,” said Williams. “That’s why it’s recommended you buy or cut firewood within 10 miles of where you plan to burn it.”

Public agencies in Washington County, where EAB was first detected three years ago, have been preparing for its spread beyond Forest Grove. For example:

• Beaverton is protecting nearly 500 ash street trees in good condition by injecting them with emamectin benzoate. This systemic insecticide has proven very effective at preventing infestation by EAB while being safe for humans, pets, and wildlife, including pollinators.
• Hillsboro is conducting a tree inventory of public and right-of-way trees. This data will help locate ash tree populations and inform the city’s EAB response plan. To protect its ash trees, Hillsboro will also be treating approximately 500 healthy public ash trees along the western and southern city boundary. This will create a buffer zone from current outbreaks as a phase one response plan.

Outside Washington County:

• Salem has been treating high-value public ash trees to protect them ahead of EAB’s arrival.
• Keizer, with help from ODF, is inventorying its street trees to find how many are ash.
• Portland recently completed its EAB response plan, which among other things involves the treatment of public trees in good condition in low-canopy neighborhoods, and the pre-emptive removal of ash trees in poor condition to spread the cost out over several years.

What you can do

If you think you’ve seen an emerald ash borer, ODF and ODA ask that you first make sure it’s not a common look-alike bug.

“You can find a good description and photos comparing EAB to other common insects in Oregon that are also green in color at OregonEAB.com,” said ODF EAB Specialist Kat Bethea. “If you can capture the beetle in a jar or other container that’s ideal, but at least try and take a clear, close-up photo. This helps us identify the insect in question much more easily.”

Bethea said people suspecting they’ve found EAB should report it over the phone to 1-866-INVADER or online at https://oregoninvasiveshotline.org/reports/create. Attaching a clear photo is important. Bethea said people who know they have an ash tree and notice a decline should report it the same way.

“Any ash tree can be infested, including native Oregon ash as well as non-native street, park and yard trees. Signs of infestation include thinning and yellowing leaves, bark splitting, D-shaped holes in the tree bark, and shoots from buds on the trunk or branches,” said Bethea.

Matt Mills, who is also an EAB Specialist with ODF, said, “You can find whether or not you’re in an EAB-infested area or close to one by checking an online map we’ve created. It shows the five counties where firewood from hardwood trees cannot be removed. That quarantine also covers any part of ash, olive or white fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus).”

People who want to protect their ash trees before they become infested should consider the same treatment Beaverton and Salem are using to protect their public ash trees. “The insecticide is injected at the base of the trunk and gets taken up into the tree canopy and is quite effective at protecting the tree from both adults and larvae,” said Mills.

Mills said treatments ideally should be done before trees are damaged, and repeated every two or three years by a licensed pesticide applicator.

“That’s why we recommend only treating high-value trees in good condition,” he said. “Ash trees planted in the wrong place to reach their mature size, such as under powerlines, should be removed as time and funds permit and replaced with species that aren’t susceptible to EAB.” 

Homeowners might also consider replacing young ash trees while they are still small and starting over by planting a species that is not susceptible to EAB.  “This gets new tree canopy jump-started in urban areas where ash trees will be lost if not treated,” Mills said.

                                                                   # # #

The City of Tigard is excited to announce it has been awarded $8 million to help with construction costs for a new bridge over Fanno Creek on North Dakota Street.

The City of Tigard applied for the funding through Metro’s 2028-2030 Regional Flexible Fund Allocation. Regional Flexible Funds come from the federal government and can be used for a wide range of projects that align with the Regional Transportation Plan and related priorities. Every few years, Metro has an opportunity to help fund transportation improvement projects by opening a call for project applications. Through a competitive process, and with support from Metro, this project was selected as one of 10 award recipients.

The North Dakota Street (Fanno Creek) Bridge Replacement project is included in the funding allocation package largely thanks to the public feedback and support shown in the results of the online survey that took place this spring. Located just west of SW Tiedeman Avenue, the new bridge will include sidewalks and bike lanes, and will also be improved to withstand future flooding and seismic activity. Built in 1962, the existing bridge is a timber structure which lacks connected sidewalks and bike lanes, and has deteriorated over time to the point that it needs to be replaced.

The awarded funds will be allocated to the City of Tigard in 2028, and the new bridge is expected to be completed in 2030. The total cost of the project is estimated to be roughly $26.4 million, with the remainder of the funding coming from the Local Bridge Program (state funding), county transportation funding, gas taxes, and Transportation System Development Charges, which are fees paid from new development.

The City of Tigard will continue to engage the community on this exciting project as it moves forward.

###

MEDIA ADVISORY -

INFO EMBARGOED UNTIL

10 a.m. Sept. 10, 2025

Sept. 9, 2025

Contacts:

What: News conference at the site where emerald ash borer was first detected in Portland with remarks about Multnomah County going under a firewood quarantine on Sept. 10 and time for media questions by:

• Oregon Dept. of Agriculture’s Cody Holthouse, who heads the statewide Emerald Ash Borer Task Force
• City of Portland Parks and Recreation Urban Forestry
• Oregon Dept. of Forestry Invasive Species Manager and EAB specialists

When: 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025

Where: David Douglas Swimming Pool, 13035 SE Taylor Court, Portland

Directions: Take SE Stark Street and turn south onto SE 130^th. One block south of Morrison turn east onto Taylor Court.

Visuals: Green ash tree showing signs of dieback. Pinned specimens of emerald ash borer and serpentine larval galleries. Map of locations in Oregon where EAB has been found.

                                                               # # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, September 9, 2025

BEND, OR — The 2025 High Desert Rendezvous—the High Desert Museum’s largest annual fundraising event—has set a new record, grossing over $700,000 to support the Museum’s exhibitions and programs.

The event, now in its 36^th year and considered one of the longest-running fundraisers in Central Oregon, took place at the Museum on Saturday, August 23. Attendees met wildlife, explored the Art in the West exhibition, enjoyed living history activities and gathered for a sumptuous dinner and live auction. The previous record-setting Rendezvous was in 2024.

The 2025 Rendezvous Honoree, the Tykeson Family Foundation, contributed to the event’s success. The Foundation makes a profound impact in Central Oregon through its steadfast dedication to education, health care and the arts. Led by Amy Tykeson, the former CEO of BendBroadband, the Tykeson Family Foundation supports the Museum’s many programs and initiatives.

“The Museum continues to make a tremendous impact in the region. We were honored to be recognized and are proud to play a role in furthering the important work underway for all of us to learn, convene, reflect and understand,” said Tykeson, who serves as managing trustee for the Foundation.

“We’re extraordinarily grateful to the Rendezvous attendees, the Tykeson Family Foundation, our Board of Trustees and this amazing community who have contributed to the ongoing work of this museum,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “This generosity helps us continue to grow our amazing exhibitions, educational efforts and programs to serve this dynamic region.”

Founded in 1982, the High Desert Museum brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum every year opens up to nine new temporary exhibitions, cares for over 100 animals and welcomes thousands of school children for field trips. In the 2024-25 fiscal year, nearly 220,000 people visited the Museum.

The 2025 High Desert Rendezvous was presented by Bonta Gelato and Ferguson Wellman Wealth Management with support from Greenberg Traurig, LLP and Vista Capital Partners.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

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

###

Campus Compact honors student leaders nationwide for their commitment to community engagement

Salem, Ore., September 9, 2025 — Chemeketa Community College is proud to announce that student leader Lillian Anderson has been selected as a 2025–2026 Newman Civic Fellow by Campus Compact. Anderson, a second-year student and returning president of the Associated Students of Chemeketa (ASC), is recognized for her dedication to mobilizing student leaders and addressing the diverse needs of Chemeketa’s community.

Through her leadership, Anderson has advanced initiatives that confront basic needs insecurity, strengthen student connections to on- and off-campus resources, and expand civic engagement opportunities. Over the past year, she has advocated at the Oregon State Capitol for increased student resources, facilitated a college-wide vote on a public measure, and organized meaningful engagement opportunities that reflect student priorities.

“Chemeketa students consistently demonstrate the power of civic engagement to transform communities,” said Jessica Howard, Ph.D., president of Chemeketa Community College. “Lillian’s passion for uplifting her peers through resources, connection, and advocacy embodies the very best of Chemeketa’s mission. We are thrilled to see her recognized as a Newman Civic Fellow.”

The Newman Civic Fellowship is a year-long program that provides students with access to exclusive learning opportunities, mentorship, competitive mini-grants for social impact projects, and national networking. Anderson will join student leaders from across the country at the Fellowship’s annual convening, to be held October 16–18, 2025, in Chicago.

“I am honored to be selected as a Newman Civic Fellow,” said Anderson. “This fellowship gives me the opportunity to strengthen the work I’ve started at Chemeketa and to collaborate with other student leaders who share a vision of building more connected, equitable communities.”

####

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

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

About the Newman Civic Fellowship

The Newman Civic Fellowship is a year-long program for students who have demonstrated commitment to finding solutions for challenges facing communities nationwide. Fellows are nominated by their college presidents and engage in learning, networking, and service opportunities. The program is administered by Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities dedicated to the public purposes of higher education.

09/09/2025

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. — The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is providing an update on the critical injury shooting that occurred in Wood Village.

The suspect is  identified as 25-year-old Inteus Michael Brewington.

Deputies booked Brewington into the Multnomah County Detention Center (MCDC) on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, on charges that include Second-Degree Attempted Murder, First-Degree Assault, First-Degree Robbery with a Firearm, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

The victim remains in critical condition. No additional information about the victim is available for release.

Although this investigation remains ongoing, there is no known threat to our community at this time.

This case will be submitted to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call 503-988-0560, or email tips@mcso.us.

09/08/2025

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. — The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) and the East County Major Crimes Team (MCT) are investigating a critical injury shooting that occurred in Wood Village.

At 10:15 p.m. on Monday, September 8, 2025, MCSO deputies responded to reports of a shooting that occurred in the 23700 Northeast Halsey Street.

Deputies arrived and found a man with a gunshot wound. Paramedics took the man to the hospital in critical condition.

Investigators believe the shooting occurred during a robbery.

MCSO Deputies and Gresham Police officers began an immediate search for those involved. A reverse 911 call went out to neighbors alerting them to the incident, warning them to stay inside.

One suspect was detained. Evidence has been collected from the scene and is being processed.

As part of the search, deputies and officers deployed drones and a K9 to assist with their search for anyone involved and evidence collection. Northeast Halsey Street was closed between Northeast 230^th Court and Northeast 238^th Drive while investigators worked.

Additional details about this incident are being collected and analyzed. Once additional information is confirmed, more may be released.

A MCSO Public Information Officer (PIO) responded to the scene to provide media updates.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call 503-988-0560, or email tips@mcso.us.

Portland, OR — The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for portions of central and eastern Oregon beginning at 1:50 p.m. PDT today through 11:00 p.m. PDT September 11. Heavy rainfall may result in landslides and debris flows in areas of steep terrain, as well as debris flows in and near burned areas from recent wildfires. The watch area includes central Oregon, the east slopes of the Oregon Cascades, the John Day Basin, the Ochoco-John Day Highlands, and the Southern Blue Mountains.

Find the latest information here: https://alerts.weather.gov/search?area=OR

Debris flows are rapidly moving, extremely destructive landslides. They can contain boulders and logs transported in a fast-moving soil and water slurry down steep hillsides and through narrow canyons. They can easily travel a mile or more. A debris flow moves faster than a person can run. People, structures, and roads located below steep slopes in canyons and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk.

If your home, work, or travel route is in a watch area:

• Stay alert. Track the flood watch by radio, TV, weather radio, or online. If told to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Listen. Unusual sounds might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together. A trickle of falling mud or debris may precede larger landslides. If you think there is danger of a landslide, leave immediately.
• Watch the water. If water in a stream or creek suddenly turns muddy or the amount of water flowing suddenly decreases or increases, this is a warning that the flow has been affected upstream. You should immediately leave the area because a debris flow may soon be coming downstream.
• Travel with extreme caution. Assume roads are not safe. Be alert when driving, especially at night. Embankments along roadsides may fail, sending rock and debris onto the road.

For more landslide and debris flow information: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/landslide/Pages/debrisflow.aspx

###

VANCOUVER, Wash. — PeaceHealth today announced the appointment of Imelda Dacones, MD, FACP, as president of care delivery and value. Following the promotion of Mike Dwyer to president of strategy and business value, Dr. Dacones joins the organization as part of a comprehensive senior leadership team realignment aimed at accelerating PeaceHealth’s three-year transformation strategy.

A long-time strategic partner to PeaceHealth, Dr. Dacones is a nationally recognized physician executive and healthcare leader with more than two decades of experience driving business and cultural transformation.

“In her new role, Dr. Dacones will help accelerate PeaceHealth’s bold journey to become a truly integrated health system that delivers a person-first, value-driven and highly trusted care and employment experience for all,” said Sarah Ness, PeaceHealth incoming president and CEO. “Dr. Dacones has a proven track record of driving strategic transformation and will help break down care delivery silos, streamline decision-making, elevate the caregiver experience and advance the performance excellence needed to shape the PeaceHealth of the future.”

Effective Sept. 15, Dr. Dacones will lead and evolve the full scope of PeaceHealth’s clinical operations with renewed emphasis on physicians and clinicians, care teams and care models, ensuring we deliver value with every care encounter. She will partner closely with Richard DeCarlo, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Michelle James, RN, senior vice president and chief quality, patient safety, risk and nursing officer, and other ambulatory, acute and shared services leaders to evolve PeaceHealth’s care delivery system.

“As a longstanding strategic partner to PeaceHealth, I am excited to now join this incredible organization from within,” said Dr. Dacones. “I am deeply committed to working alongside our physicians, clinicians and care teams to build on PeaceHealth’s legacy of healing and evolve our care delivery model to meet the needs of today and tomorrow.”

The first woman and first person of color to chair The Permanente Federation’s National Executive Council, Dr. Dacones has been widely recognized for her vision, including being named one of Modern Healthcare’s Top 25 Minority Leaders and a “Most Admired CEO” honoree by the Puget Sound Business Journal.

PeaceHealth will announce additional leadership team updates in the coming weeks as part of its broader effort to accelerate progress to deliver a person-first, value-driven and highly trusted experience for all.

About PeaceHealth: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a non-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, nearly 3,200 physicians and clinicians, more than 160 clinics and 9 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org.

###

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) is investigating two incidents reported by women walking or running on the Salmon Creek Trail near Klineline Park.

Incident 1 – September 3, 2025

On September 3, 2025, at approximately 3:42 p.m., a woman called 911 to report that she had been assaulted while walking her dog on the Salmon Creek Trail eastbound toward Klineline Park (800 NE 117th Street, Vancouver, WA).

The victim stated an unidentified man ran up behind her and forcefully grabbed her buttocks before continuing east on the trail. The suspect looked back but did not speak.

The victim described the suspect as:

• White male, in his 20s
• Approximately 5’9” to 5’10” tall
• Muscular/athletic build, slight tan
• Brown, bushy or shaggy hair
• Shirtless, wearing knee-length black shorts
• Wearing black athletic gloves with grip fingertips

This case is being investigated as Assault IV – sexual motivation.

Incident 2 – September 8, 2025

On September 8, 2025, another woman reported suspicious behavior while running in the park on one of the trails. She described seeing a white male, very tan, approximately 5’9” to 5’10”, muscular, and wearing a tan long-sleeve shirt. He had a mask or face covering pulled up over his nose. She could not determine if he had facial hair.

The woman reported that the man appeared to be recording her with his phone, holding it away from his body with both arms extended. She observed him again sitting on a park bench, continuing to film her as she ran. She reported feeling unsafe and moved to an area of the park where more people were present. 

She later reported this to the Sheriff's Office after seeing a social media post about a similar incident.

Both incidents are under investigation.

RELEASE DATE:                    May 31, 2025
UPDATE:                                  June 9, 2025
CASE NUMBER:                      25-22181

Yesterday, Sept. 8, 2025, officers arrested Camille Zotto, 30, of Gresham, after she was indicted by a grand jury for Manslaughter in the Second Degree in connection with the crash at NE 181st Ave. and NE Pacific St. She was booked on the following charges:

• Manslaughter in the Second Degree
• Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII)
• Reckless Driving
• Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree

Chief Travis Gullberg said, “Our hearts are with the family of the pedestrian who lost her life in this tragic crash. We hope this step toward accountability brings some measure of justice. I’m grateful for the diligent work of our Vehicular Crimes Team and the patience of the family and community throughout this investigation.”

This concludes a thorough investigation by the East Multnomah County Vehicular Crimes Team (VCT), led by Officer Gomez.

Original Message Below

Gresham, Ore. – A pedestrian was killed this evening in a traffic crash on NE 181st Ave. At approximately 5:30 p.m., Gresham Police and medical personnel responded to a report of a person who had been struck by a vehicle while walking on the sidewalk near NE Pacific St.

Upon arrival, first responders attempted lifesaving measures, but the pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene. The involved vehicle also struck a power pole, though no power outages were reported.

NE 181st Ave. was closed between NE Glisan St. and NE Wasco St. for several hours while investigators processed the scene.

The East Multnomah County Vehicular Crimes Team (VCT) is leading the investigation. The driver of the vehicle stayed at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. VCT investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash, including whether impairment was a contributing factor.

###30###

On Friday, September 5, 2025, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a focused mission to address livability concerns in the unincorporated community of Aloha. Deputies concentrated their efforts at locations known to have frequent illegal drug activity and at homes suspected of selling drugs.

Deputies contacted multiple individuals during the mission, resulting in arrests and the application of a search warrant for one of the locations. Deputies served the search warrant in the 2000 block of SW Leewood Drive, resulting in the seizure of additional illegal drugs.

Detectives from the Westside Interagency Narcotics team (WIN) and the Washington County Community Violence Reduction Team (CoVRT) assisted with the investigation.

The following people were arrested during the mission:

• Gerardo Ordonez-Venegas (22), distribution of a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance
• Alyssa Slaughter (24) DUII and reckless driving
• Tiffany Ragland (33), two Washington County warrants

Community members are encouraged to report suspicious behavior to the Sheriff’s Office through non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Ralph Stout Pettefer, died the morning of September 9, 2025. Pettefer was incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution (SRCI) in Ontario and passed away at the institution. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Pettefer entered DOC custody on June 28, 1996, from Clatsop County with an earliest release date of November 12, 2032. Pettefer was 73 years old.

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

SRCI is a multi-custody prison in Ontario that houses approximately 3,000 adults in custody. SRCI has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, intensive management, infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care, and an administrative segregation unit. SRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including a contact center, laundry, and sign shop. SRCI specializes in incentive housing, specialized housing, individuals with mental health/medical vulnerabilities, education and trades programs, cognitive and parenting programs, and institution work programs. SRCI opened in 1991 and is the largest correctional institution in the state.

####

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (Sept. 9, 2025)- On Monday, September 8, 2025, at 2:18 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 99, near milepost 12, in Jackson County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Subaru Legacy, operated by Cody Austin Jenkins (26) of Gold Hill, veered across the northbound lanes, broke through a fence, and entered the Rogue River. The vehicle was quickly submerged with no occupants observed escaping the vehicle. The Jackson County Search and Rescue Team responded and assisted with removing the vehicle from the river.

The operator of the Subaru (Jenkins) was declared deceased at the scene. There were no other occupants in the vehicle.

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office, Jackson County Search and Rescue, Rogue River Fire Department, and ODOT.

# # #

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

LANE COUNTY, Ore (Sept. 9, 2025) - On Friday, September 5, 2025, at 8:43 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 126E, near milepost 21, in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Suzuki GXR motorcycle, operated by Lucas Charles Thomas (38) of Springfield, struck a deer around 3:00 a.m.. The collision caused the rider to lose control, leave the roadway, and travel down an embankment.

The operator of the Suzuki (Thomas) was declared deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by McKenzie Fire and ODOT.

# # #

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

City of Tualatin Neighborhood Transportation Safety Program Delivers Results - Community Invited to Suggest Next Projects

Tualatin, Ore. – The Neighborhood Transportation Safety Program (NTSP) is an exciting, community-powered effort to make the City of Tualatin’s streets and pathways safer, more accessible, and better for all modes of transport. Each year, community members are invited to submit project suggestions. All suggestions are reviewed and a select few are identified for planning and construction. Community members can submit their project ideas now through September 30, 2025, for the next program cycle.
 

Whether you’re walking, driving, or cycling, each project begins with a community suggestion.  From crosswalks to ADA-accessible ramps, better bike lanes to clearer signs - each suggestion helps solve real transportation challenges people encounter in their daily lives.

“The Neighborhood Transportation Safety Program is a great example of how small changes can create a big difference in the community,” said Abby McFetridge, Engineering Associate.
 

With $150,000 in annual funding from the City’s share of the statewide gas tax, many meaningful safety projects have already been completed. Three projects were completed in the 2025 cycle.
 

Thanks to a resident suggestion, a brand-new crosswalk with high visibility and flashing lights was installed at the intersection of Ibach Street and Columbia Drive. This project increased pedestrian safety and walkability in the neighborhood.
 

Another great suggestion completed this year was the upgraded traffic signal at Boones Ferry Road and Ibach Street. This project focused on changing the signal timing so left-turning cars wait while pedestrians safely cross the street. The green left-turn arrow will not appear when the pedestrian walk sign is on. This change has boosted the safety for both drivers and walkers at this intersection.
 

Lastly, resident suggestions led to important improvements at Nyberg Road and 65^th Avenue. With enhancements to the signal, southbound right-turning drivers will now see a red or flashing yellow arrow when someone presses the walk button. This improvement makes it clearer when drivers should stop or yield to people crossing the street.    Previously, on a green light, drivers would have to notice pedestrians when the walk sign was on. 
 

The submission deadline for Neighborhood Transportation Safety Program projects for 2026 is swiftly coming to a close.  The unique perspectives of community members allow us to identify and tackle issues that may otherwise go unseen.  So, if you’ve noticed a need for a safer crosswalk, better bike lane, or just need to fix a pesky problem spot on your commute, we want to hear from you!  Help us shape a safer, more user-friendly Tualatin by filling out the online survey by September 30, 2025.

For more information and to submit your idea, visit https://www.tualatinoregon.gov/NTSP.

Gresham, Ore.— The first suspect in the murder of 13-year-old Liam Spahnle-Bailey has been arrested.  Liam was killed in April, when gunfire from a neighboring apartment passed through the wall and struck him while he slept.  In the early hours of September 9^th, multiple law enforcement agencies served a search warrant at a residence in northeast Portland and arrested Anthony Hunter Jr. 

“With this arrest, a dangerous fugitive has been brought to justice; however, our work is not done,” said Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg. “Two suspects are still wanted for Liam’s murder.  Our officers, detectives, and law enforcement partners will not stop.  We will work tirelessly until they, too, are found and apprehended.”

Xavier Hirsch, age 20, and 17-year-old Terrell Coy are both wanted for Murder in the Second Degree, and other crimes.  The US Marshals Service is offering rewards of $5,000 each for information leading to their arrest.

Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez said, “I appreciate the diligent work of detectives to get justice for Liam’s family.  I continue to urge the members of the community to come forward with information on Xavier Hirsch and Terrell Coy.”

The Gresham Police Department would like to thank the US Marshals Service, Portland Police Bureau, and Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office for their assistance leading to this arrest.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Commission on Aging will hold its annual retreat on Wednesday, Sept. 17, from 3:15 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The in-person meeting will be held in the sixth-floor Training Room in the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St. The retreat will not include provisions for virtual attendance, and will not be recorded, but is open to the public. 

Topics at the retreat include the 2026 work plan and 2025 Silver Citizen nominees. 

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.

HILLSBORO, Ore. – Portland Community College invites the media to celebrate the grand opening of its new Teaching Cleanroom and “Technology Innovation Spaces” at the Willow Creek Opportunity Center in Hillsboro. 

This state-of-the-art floor houses the new Teaching Cleanroom, the Artificial Intelligence Literacy Lab, and the Manufacturing Lab—spaces designed to prepare Oregon’s workforce for careers in semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, and artificial intelligence.

The event will feature remarks from PCC leadership, elected officials, industry partners, and alumni, followed by a ribbon cutting and guided tours of the new facilities.

WHEN:

• 10 – 11:50 a.m., Friday, Sept. 12

WHERE:

• PCC’s Willow Creek Opportunity Center (241 SW Edgeway Drive, Hillsboro)

WHO:

• Dr. Adrien Bennings, President, Portland Community College

• Senator Janeen Sollman, Oregon State Senator

• Courtney Martin, Director (Oregon) of U.S. Government & Community Affairs, Intel

• Oscar Rodriguez, PCC Microelectronics alumnus and Jireh Semiconductor employee

SCHEDULE:

• 10 – 10:20 a.m.: Refreshments & mingling

• 10:20 – 10:45 a.m.: Speakers

• 10:50 – 11:00 a.m.: Ribbon cutting

• 11 – 11:50 a.m.: Tours of Cleanroom, AI Lab & Manufacturing Lab

WHY:

Funded in part by a $1.677 million state workforce grant, PCC’s Teaching Cleanroom strengthens the Silicon Forest’s talent pipeline and ensures local students, workers, and partners gain hands-on experience with advanced technologies.

CONTACT:

For information on the event or to RSVP, contact James Hill at jghill@pcc.edu or 503-933-2664.

VIDEO:

Mikulak introduces the Teaching Cleanroom Amenities. (WeTransfer available on request)

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 53,000 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/

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 09/11/2025

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS September 11, 2025, 6:30PM Evergreen Virtual Academy Board Members are Hereby notified that a Session of the Board will be held via Zoom Webinar at https://evergreenvirtual-org.zoom.us/j/87931930355
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 253 215 8782, +8 793 193 0355, +1 346 248 7799

Oregon Lottery will join the owners of Alvadore Gas & Store to present a bonus check for selling the winning $8.1 million Oregon Megabucks jackpot in the August 16 drawing.

WHEN: Thursday, September 11, 11 a.m.  

WHERE: Alvadore Gas & Store, 90828 Railroad St, Alvadore, OR 97409

WHAT: Oregon Lottery’s External Communications Program Manager Melanie Mesaros and store owner Chandni Sharma will be available to answer questions. Media can obtain video/b-roll of retailer and owners with the giant check. 

The player who won the jackpot prize is not interested in media interviews and will not be attending.

Store owners Hukam and Chandni Sharma earn a bonus of $81,000 for selling the winning ticket. Oregon’s Game Megabucks has some of the most favorable big prize jackpot game odds in the world.

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Finance Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 11, 2025. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/84803308448?pwd=WEpymp3aFzbmLqD2TDL3ykk60j6LFl.1
Passcode:582840

Date: Wed, Sept 24th, 2025

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_sep_24_cannabis/

What we know, and what we still need to know, about the effects of cannabis on: 

• Sexual health and function 
• Reproductive health and fertility 
• Pregnancy and offspring  
• Menopausal symptoms 

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.

COOS BAY, Oregon— The Sunset Bay Astronomy Festival returns to Sunset Bay and Shore Acres state parks near Coos Bay for a three-day event Sept. 25-27.

Activities include guided hikes, interpretive programs including JR Ranger programs, a night-sky photography workshop on Sept. 25 and a star party each night.

“Places like Sunset Bay and Shore Acres offer visitors a chance to see the natural world not only during the day but also at night. They’re special because they show us what the sky looked like everywhere before light pollution. Seeing the night sky in its full brilliance is powerful and, for many, even emotional,” said Park Manager Lee Ricci.

The astronomy festival gives visitors a chance to see and learn more about the night sky.

NOTE: Outdoor events are weather dependent.

Thursday Activities:

• 10 a.m.: Our Star, The Sun JR Ranger Program at Sunset Bay Interpretive Center
• 6 to 7:30 p.m.: Night Sky Photography Workshop. Sign up required. Email Kenneth.Page@oprd.oregon.gov to sign up.
• 7:30 p.m.: Navigating by The Stars program at Shore Acres Gardens
• 8 p.m.: Star Party with telescopes at Shore Acres
• Webpage with complete Thursday schedule

(Parking Permit is $10 per vehicle and required to park in the Shore Acres day-use parking lot.)

Friday Activities:

• 10 a.m.: Constellation Station Junior Ranger Program at Sunset Bay Interpretive Center
• 12-2 p.m.: Solar Viewing with special telescope at Shore Acres Observation Building
• 6-7 p.m.: Jellyfish: The Alien Next Door guided hike (meet at Shore Acres Observation Building for 1-mile hike)
• 7:30: How to Talk to Aliens Even if You’re Shy evening program at Shore Acres Garden
• 8 p.m.: Star Party with telescopes at Shore Acres
• Webpage with complete Friday schedule

(Parking Permit is $10 per vehicle and required to park in the Shore Acres day-use parking lot.)

Saturday Activities:

• 10 a.m.: Guided hike (Meet at Interpretive Center at Sunset Bay Campground for 1-mile hike)
• 12-2 p.m.: Solar Viewing with special telescope at Shore Acres Observation Building
• 7:30 p.m.: Imagining Other Worlds Night Program at Shore Acres
• 8 p.m.: Star Party with telescopes at Shore Acres
• Webpage with complete Saturday schedule

(Parking Permit is $10 per vehicle and required to park in the Shore Acres day-use parking lot.)