PORTLAND, Ore.— An Estacada, Oregon, man is facing federal charges today after he was caught transporting 270 pounds of methamphetamine from Southern California to Oregon.

Anthony Barrera, 29, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing methamphetamine and cocaine with the intent to distribute.

According to court documents, during an investigation of an alleged drug trafficker, later identified as Barrera, investigators learned Barrera rented a vehicle and traveled to California to pick up large quantities of drugs to distribute and sell in Oregon.

On May 24, 2025, officers located Barrera driving the rental vehicle northbound on Interstate 5 and followed him to a rest area near Roseberg, Oregon, where Barrera was arrested without incident. Agents executed a federal search warrant on the rental vehicle and seized 270 pounds of methamphetamine and two pounds of cocaine, which were concealed in the backseat and cargo area of the vehicle. Later the same day, investigators executed a federal search warrant on Barrera’s residence where they seized two firearms hidden under the floor of a closet.

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

The case is being investigated by the FBI and the Multnomah County Dangerous Drug Team (DDT). It is being prosecuted by Charlotte Kelley, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. 

The Multnomah County 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, Multnomah County Parole and Probation, Gresham Police Department, the FBI and U.S. Marshals Service (USMS). 

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.

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

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Vancouver, Wash. – Today at around 12:10 p.m. Vancouver Police responded to 4100 Plomondon Street for the report of a drive-by shooting in the parking lot near the Jim Parsley Center. The investigation indicated that some type of altercation occurred between several individuals in the parking lot with an unknown male shooting several rounds from a vehicle before driving off. There were no injuries reported.  Officers located three shell casings in the parking lot. Roosevelt Elementary School was briefly in secure response while police investigated.

During the investigation, it was learned that one of the juveniles in the parking lot retreated into the school located within the Jim Parsely center, concealing a handgun wrapped in a sweatshirt.  Video surveillance revealed that the juvenile handed the sweatshirt/handgun off to another juvenile, who attempted to conceal it inside the school.  The sweatshirt was located inside the school by police and was found to contain a stolen handgun. 

One 15-year-old male and one 17-year-old- male were booked into the juvenile detention center for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm II, Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Possession of a Dangerous Weapon on School Grounds. 

The Vancouver Police Department Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) is continuing the investigation to identify and locate the suspect(s) who fled the scene.

Nothing further is releasable.

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SALEM, Ore. — The Emergency Fire Cost Committee will meet in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry, 2600 State St. in Salem on Tuesday, June 3 at 10 a.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Financial status of the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund
• Weather update
• Update on status of large fire cost collection efforts
• Eligibility of firefighting costs for the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund
• Agency and Business Services/Fire Protection Division/Administrator reports

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

The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) oversees the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF), established by the Oregon Legislature as a fund with the purpose of equalizing emergency fire suppression costs among the various Oregon Department of Forestry protection districts and forest protective associations. All districts/associations contribute to the fund so that money will be available to any individual district/association to pay fire suppression costs on eligible emergency fires. View more information on the EFCC webpage.

Student journalists at Clackamas Community College won 13 awards in the 2025 Oregon Collegiate Newspaper Contest.

Among the awards were first-place prizes for photography, headline writing and website.

Students from “The Clackamas Print,” the student media organization at CCC, also won awards in the two-year school category for their feature writing, spot news photography and house ads.

Carlos Rodriguez-Picazo, a visuals editor, won best sports photo for a photo of a fisherman along the Clackamas River.

Quinton Prudhomme, a co-editor-in-chief for the Print, won two awards for photography for work he did at pro-Palestinian protests at Portland State University in spring 2024. He called the protest an intense scenario where he had to “carefully maneuver taking pictures where people really did not like their picture being taken.”

Prudhomme said a counter protester “tried to run over a bunch of protesters and hopped out of his car and started pepper-spraying people. I got some pepper spray in my eyes. Not fun, very scary.”

Prudhomme leads a team of student journalists with co-editor-in-chief Evan Tichenor.

Tichenor said, “I’m making sure work is getting done, and if not, making sure people have what they need. I expect us to win more than 13 awards next year.”

The awards were presented by the Oregon Newspapers Foundation at the annual Collegiate Day held May 2 at Linn-Benton Community College in Albany, Ore.

Dozens of students from Oregon colleges and universities took part in the awards presentation.

For more information on journalism at CCC, contact Melissa Jones at melissaj@clackamas.edu or visit TheClackamasPrint.com.

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Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works reminds local drivers that summer is the season for road preservation projects. Several methods are used to preserve roadway surfaces and to protect the county’s transportation infrastructure. Work to apply cape seal, slurry seal, chip seal and hot mix asphalt can cause traffic delays and road closures.

Residents living on or near roads receiving treatment this summer have begun receiving notifications via mail. As roadwork dates approach, residents can expect notifications to be delivered to their door. Businesses and residents along collector and arterial roadways have also been notified of upcoming hot mix asphalt work, which may cause delays on some of the county’s more well-traveled roads.

Residents can view interactive maps of project locations on our website at clark.wa.gov/public-works/summer-road-preservation.

Drivers should expect delays or detours and check their routes before traveling. Mapping and navigation apps don’t typically show drivers information about temporary road closures or work zone delays, so drivers should check agency websites. The Clark County Public Works construction traffic delays webpage at clark.wa.gov/public-works/construction-traffic-delays is updated at least once each week with information about road work in unincorporated Clark County. It also has links to construction and traffic delay information for the City of Vancouver and the Washington State Department of Transportation.

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

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

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

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

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

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Kelso High School is hosting the 8th Annual No Limits Track Meet on May 30, 2025—a high-energy, heart-filled event created to celebrate the unique strengths of students with disabilities across the Lower Columbia region.

Spearheaded by Kelso High Leadership students and the Special Education team, this inclusive event is growing. This year, a record-breaking 268 student athletes from 27 schools will lace up, roll out, and show the world what’s possible—up from 170 athletes just last year.

The No Limits Track Meet is about showing up with courage, competing with heart, and cheering on each other’s victories. Whether sprinting, rolling, jumping, or throwing, every participant is celebrated for their determination, spirit, and strength. Events include:

• Assisted running/walking
• Wheelchair and trike races
• Standing and running long jump
• Bowling ball push
• Tennis ball / frisbee / softball / javelin throws 

Participating schools:

• Camas High School
• Castle Rock High School
• Castle Rock Middle School
• Coweeman Middle School
• Jemtagaard Middle School
• Hockinson High School
• Hockinson Middle School
• Hockinson Transition Program
• Kalama High School
• Kelso High School
• La Center High School
• Liberty Middle School
• Mark Morris High School
• Monticello Middle School
• Mt. Solo Middle School
• Naselle High School
• RA Long High School
• Ridgefield High School
• Sunset Intermediate
• Toledo High School
• View Ridge Middle School
• Wahkiakum High School
• Wahkiakum Middle School
• Washougal High School
• Woodland Partners in Transition
• Woodland High School
• Woodland Middle School

As part of the experience, each student will receive a participant shirt, ribbons for each of their events, lunch, and shaved ice.

No Limits Track Meet
Friday, May 30, 2025
Kelso High School
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

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.  When we asked students and staff what makes Kelso strong, with 45 voices, there was one clear answer (bit.ly/ksd-strong).

On May 24th, 2025, at about 1:07 a.m. the Oregon City Police Department responded to a burglary in progress at the Geeks and Games store located at 1656 Beavercreek Rd.

During the investigation, it was determined that a subject had forcibly made entry into the building and had stolen numerous items valued in excess of $1,000. Notably, among the stolen items were Pokémon Destined Rivals cards, which were not set for release until May 26th.

The suspect in this case is believed to be an adult male, who was wearing all black and had a mask covering his face. The suspect is further described as having a heavier build and estimated to be 6’ to 6’2’’ inches tall.

The attached collage is an assortment of the stolen items and is being shared in hopes that someone might identify them.  It is possible the suspect could attempt to sell these items to another gaming store.  If you have any information about this burglary, please call the Oregon City Police Tip Line at 503-905-0505.  Please reference OCPD case number 25-010791.

Clackamas County, Ore. 27 May 2025- On Sunday, May 26, 2025, at 5:16 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to at two-vehicle crash on Highway 224, near milepost 45, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Harley Davidson Softail motorcycle, operated by Niko Daniel Harpham (28) of Oregon City, failed to negiated a corner, slid into the westbound travel lane, and struck a westbound Kia Forte, operated by Gabriela Camacho (21) of Molalla, head-on.

The operator of the Harley Davidson (Harpham) was declared deceased after being transported by Life Flight to an area hospital.

The operator of the Kia  (Camacho) suffered minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office 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.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council is seeking community members with expertise in or experience with people with intellectual/developmental disabilities to serve on the Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board. 

The 10-member advisory board makes recommendations to the Clark County Council relating to developmental disabilities services and assists in the development and maintenance of a comprehensive plan. The board provides community leadership on the improvement of efficiency and effectiveness of community developmental disabilities programs.

The open position is for a vacated unexpired term. The term expires Dec. 31, 2025. The appointee would be eligible for reappointment to a full three-year term following the expiration of the current term. Members appointed to the board include people knowledgeable about developmental disabilities or interested in services to people with developmental disabilities in the community. Individuals with disabilities, family members, members of the business community or other interested individuals are encouraged to apply.

The Clark County Developmental Disability Advisory Board values diversity and the advisory board has adopted equity as a priority. People identifying as Black, Indigenous, People of Color, LGBTQ2+ as well as other historically under-represented groups are encouraged to apply. People with intellectual/developmental disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.

The advisory board meets at 5:15 pm the first Wednesday of every month. Currently, these meetings are held in an in-person/virtual hybrid format.

To apply, please send a letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, Clark County Council, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000, or email to Michelle.Pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm Monday, June 30, 2025.

PORTLAND, Ore. – The future looks bright -- tomorrow and beyond.

Just ask the Portland Community College Foundation and its supporters. They raised $326,640 during the “Together for Tomorrow” celebration on Saturday, May 17, at the Sylvania Campus. Presented by Comcast, the event marked a new chapter for the college’s annual fundraising efforts. The celebration featured remarks from PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings, Foundation Executive Director Christina Kline, Comcast’s Rebecca Brown, and others.

“The funds raised will have a transformative impact for students,” Kline said. “It’s truly inspiring to be in a community with so many people who believe in the power of education to change lives — people who understand that the future we want is one we build together.”

Replacing the PCC Foundation’s traditional gala, “Together for Tomorrow” offered an on-campus experience aimed at building community and expanding access to education. Guests enjoyed festive party tents, curated cuisine, signature cocktails and music. Proceeds from the event will directly support the foundation’s “Bridges to the Future” scholarships and other essential student needs.

The evening spotlighted powerful student stories that illustrated the impact of scholarships. Attendees heard from aspiring geologist Rachel Diane and scholarship recipients Ricardo Bravo, Luz Zurita Garcia and Mikala Stofiel, who highlighted how PCC’s support network fuels student success and workforce development.

Jonathan Bennett Watson, a PCC alumnus now studying engineering at Oregon State University, shared how scholarship support allowed him to focus on academics and unlock his potential.

“The ‘Bridges to the Future’ scholarship allowed me to reduce my work hours and focus on my education," Watson said. “That time — that space — changed everything for me. This shift in mindset pushed me to reach my full potential.”

About the PCC Foundation: The foundation is much more than a fund-raising organization connected to the college -- it's a nonprofit that expands access to education. The foundation helps students access education by awarding scholarships and building the capacity of PCC to provide vital educational opportunities for the college's community and beyond. Learn more at https://www.pcc.edu/foundation/

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/

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

On May 9, 2025, Levi David Gray, a former Coffee Creek Correctional Facility employee, pleaded guilty to two counts of custodial sexual misconduct in the first degree. On May 23, 2025, Gray was sentenced to 20 months in prison and 5 years of probation.

The Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) remains committed to upholding professionalism, integrity, and accountability. The custodial sexual misconduct committed by former Correctional Sergeant Levi Gray is deeply troubling and disappointing. His actions violate the agency’s mission and undermine the trust placed in it by the public, staff, and adults in custody.

Sexual misconduct is unacceptable in any setting, but it is particularly egregious in a correctional environment where power dynamics must never be abused. DOC continues to work diligently to prevent such violations through staff training, reporting mechanisms, and technology.

The agency reaffirms its commitment to transparency, accountability, and justice. The Oregon Department of Corrections has zero tolerance for misconduct, and decisive action will continue to be taken to uphold ethical and legal responsibilities.

DOC Director Michael Reese provided a recorded statement: Director’s Message on Misconduct and Accountability

DOC employs 4,600 staff members at 12 institutions, two community corrections offices, and several centralized support facilities throughout the state. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of over 12,000 adults sentenced to more than 12 months of incarceration, and direct or indirect supervision of 24,000 offenders on felony supervision in the community. DOC is recognized nationally among correctional agencies for providing adults in custody with the cognitive, education, and job skills needed to become productive citizens when they transition back to their communities.

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Vancouver, Wash., May 23, 2025 — The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington will host its 2025 Annual Luncheon on Tuesday, June 3, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Hilton Vancouver Washington. A major highlight is the 2025 SW Washington Philanthropy Awards presentation, which recognizes individuals and organizations that contribute generously and consistently to local causes.

Lisa Lowe, shareholder at Schwabe, will receive the Friend of the Foundation Award for helping to advance the Community Foundation’s mission through her consistent leadership, astute guidance and professional network. Ian Thompson, founder of Lower Columbia School Gardens in Longview, Wash., earned the Community Champion Award for his tireless efforts to expand access to fresh produce and hands-on environmental education. Kate Jones and Marty Rifkin, founder of the KMR Group Foundation, will be honored as Philanthropists of the Year for providing generous support and leadership to local nonprofits, especially those offering educational opportunities and basic human needs.

"The annual luncheon is always full of inspiration, because it's a time to highlight the importance of giving and celebrate those making an impact in southwest Washington," Community Foundation president Matt Morton said. "We also have a few surprises planned that will give our guests a chance to explore the unique strengths they can contribute as community stewards."

The program also features a talk from Nichole June Maher, president and CEO of Inatai Foundation. In her first year, she and her team visited all of Washington’s 39 counties to learn about their strengths and opportunities. Along the way, they witnessed the power of people—each contributing their perspectives, skills and purpose—to create positive change in communities. Maher’s talk will touch on her work in southwest Washington and share how life’s hardest learned lessons can make people better givers.

Tickets are nearly sold out for the event, which is not a fundraiser. Those interested can purchase seats online at cfsww.org. Regarded as southwest Washington’s preeminent celebration of philanthropy, the Annual Luncheon is made possible thanks to The Columbian, Leslie Durst, First Pacific Financial and Sellwood Investment Partners.

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About the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington

Established in 1984, the Community Foundation helps southwest Washingtonians build a more vibrant community by fostering charitable giving and community engagement. The Foundation holds more than 380 charitable funds, which are actively invested to generate growth and income for granting purposes. Governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, the Community Foundation offers benefits and services to donors, nonprofits and the community at large. Learn more at cfsww.org.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On May 9, 2025, Levi David Gray, a former corrections officer at the Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, pleaded guilty to two counts of custodial sexual misconduct in the first degree. On May 23, 2025, Judge Ricardo Menchaca sentenced the defendant to 20 months in prison. Senior Deputy District Attorney Allison Brown prosecuted this case.
 

The defendant served as the supervisor of the Special Housing Unit, where the then 19-year-old victim was being held. She had recently moved to the only cell in the unit without surveillance cameras. On May 23, 2023, the defendant committed sex acts against the victim in her cell. A witness overheard the incident and encouraged the victim to report the abuse, which she did. The defendant was sent home immediately and placed on administrative leave pending an investigation. His employment was later terminated.
 

The victim was taken to the hospital, where an exam was performed. The defendant’s DNA was located on the victim’s body. Surveillance footage also recorded Mr. Gray as he took the victim to her cell by himself, which is a policy violation, and stayed in that area for an extended period.
 

At the sentencing hearing, Judge Menchaca imposed a 20-month prison sentence, which is the maximum sentence based on the Oregon Felony Sentencing Guidelines. The defense argued for a probationary sentence, but the Judge agreed with the State that prison was appropriate. The victim was also present and provided a victim impact statement.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the victim for reporting this abuse. This office also acknowledges the Oregon Department of Corrections for taking swift action against the defendant once the abuse was disclosed, and the Oregon State Police for their investigative work.  
 

In addition to his prison sentence, the defendant will be stripped of his Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) certification and will be barred from serving as a corrections officer upon his release. He was also ordered to serve three years of post-prison supervision, to undergo sex offender treatment and a mental health evaluation, and was barred from any future contact with the victim.
 

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

May 27, 2025, Fairview, OR – Over the Memorial Day weekend, there was a break-in at the Reynolds School District's Transportation yard. Six catalytic converters were stolen from buses in the yard. RSD is working with the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office to investigate. More details to come.

MEDIA ADVISORY: TUESDAY, MAY 27

Nurses and community members are rallying to win fair contracts at two Samaritan hospitals and protect local residents’ access to healthcare as Samaritan considers cuts. 

WHAT: Rally for a fair contract and to defend residents’ access to healthcare at Samaritan hospitals from the Mid-Valley to the coast.

WHERE: Samaritan Health Services corporate headquarters (815 NW 9th St. Corvallis, OR)

WHEN: Tuesday, May 27 from 4 - 6 p.m. Speeches at approximately 4:45 p.m.

• Community members can email Samaritan decisionmakers here to ask them to save local birth centers and preserve access to essential care. 

SALEM, Ore. - The State Capitol Mall was packed as civilians and service members gathered in honor of Armed Forces Day, May 14, 2025, in Salem, Oregon.

The Oregon National Guard had something for everyone, from the howitzer salute courtesy of 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery, to the F-15 Eagle flyover by the Oregon Air National Guard, music from the 234th Army Band, and military static displays staged around the Mall.

“This Armed Forces Day, we gather to express our profound gratitude for the service and sacrifice of all the remarkable individuals who serve in every branch of our armed forces,” said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek.

The Oregon National Guard recognized the 20th anniversary of Oregon Soldiers who deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom during this year’s celebration. Personnel from the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, headquartered in Springfield, were deployed in 2004 and returned to Oregon in 2005. 

Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. The holiday was officially designated in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy.

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Release B-ROLL: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/962457/2025-oregon-national-guard-hosts-armed-forces-day-celebration

Released photos:

240514-Z-ZJ128-1001 - Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment, Oregon Army National Guard, fire an M119 105 mm howitzer during a salute at the Armed Forces Day celebration in front of the Oregon State Capitol building in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. The celebration featured music from "Oregon's Own" 234th Army Band, static displays of military equipment, local food trucks, and concluded with an F-15 Eagle flyover from the Oregon Air National Guard. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

250514-Z-UZ129-1001 - Attendees tour the Oregon National Guard static displays during the Armed Forces Day event at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard)

250514-Z-UZ129-1002 - The North Salem High School Junior ROTC color guard posts the service flags during the Armed Forces Day event at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard)  

250514-Z-UZ129-1004 - Brig Gen. Alan Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, addresses attendees during the Armed Forces Day event at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard)  

250514-Z-UZ129-1005 - The Armed Forces Day event concludes with an F-15 Eagle flyover by Oregon Air National Guard's at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard)  

250514-Z-UZ129-1006 - Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek greets retired Command Sgt. Maj. “Vinnie” Jacques, who served in Iraq in 2004-2005 with Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment following the Armed Forces Day event at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard)  

250514-Z-UZ129-1007 - Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek and Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, pose for a group photo with 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment members following the Armed Forces Day event at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard) 

IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Media Contact: licInfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov | 503-394-3310 

Plan Ahead for Evacuations During the 2025 Wildfire Awareness Month 

As Wildfire Awareness Month comes to a close the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents to take action now to prepare for the upcoming wildfire season by being ready to evacuate.  

Last year’s wildfire season was the most destructive in Oregon’s recorded history. The 2025 season is shaping up to be just as formattable. Wildfires can spread rapidly, threatening lives, homes and communities, so it’s vital the Oregonians be prepared ahead of time to receive timely notices and to evacuate if asked.  

OEM has provided resources to help Oregonians take small preparedness steps today can make a life-saving difference tomorrow. For more information about preparing your household and community visit the OEM Be2WeeksReady Community Preparedness webpages. In the meantime, here are some key tips to help you be ready should evacuation be necessary. 

Stay Informed 

Sign up for emergency alerts to receive evacuation notifications. Visit ORAlert.gov to find the local alert system for your city, county, or zip code. If you're already registered, take a moment to log in and update your contact information. Also, check your phone settings to ensure wireless emergency alerts are enabled. 

Know where to find local emergency information, such as your county’s emergency management website and TripCheck.com. Follow local emergency services on social media, including the sheriff’s office, fire agencies, and city or county pages.  

Also, make sure the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled on your phone. 

Create a Wildfire Evacuation Plan 

Being prepared starts with a plan. Visit Ready.gov/plan to create a family emergency plan. OEM offers a wildfire evacuation checklist at wildfire.oregon.gov/prepare that can serve as a guide. 

Your plan should include: 

• A list of emergency contacts. 
• A safe meeting place in case family members get separated. 
• Multiple evacuation routes from home, work, or school. TripCheck.com can help with this. 
• Transportation arrangements, including pets and livestock. 
• A discussion with loved ones, friends, and neighbors to ensure everyone understands the plan. 

Individuals with disabilities should plan ahead for transportation, equipment, and service animal needs. Visit the Red Cross for tailored resources. If you have special medical needs, make sheltering arrangements some place that can accommodate your needs, as not all standard shelters can.  

For pet and livestock evacuation planning, visit Ready.gov/pets. Prepare a pet emergency kit with essentials like food, water, medications, identification, and medical records. Livestock owners should arrange transportation and shelter options in advance—resources are available at Oregon Department of Agriculture. 

Assemble a Wildfire Go-Kit 

A go-kit contains essential items you may need to take with you in a hurry. Each household member should have an easy-to-carry emergency bag with: 

• Food and water. 
• Medications and medical supplies. 
• Flashlights and phone chargers. 
• Extra clothing and personal items. 
• Copies of vital documents and prescriptions. 

For a comprehensive emergency kit checklist, visit Ready.gov/kit or refer to the American Red Cross recommendations. 

Know Evacuation Levels 

Oregon uses a three-level evacuation system to keep residents informed and safe. Be familiar with “Be Ready, Be Set, Go!” notifications: 

• Level One – BE READY (Green): Stay aware of the wildfire threat and get prepared. Pack your go-kit, check emergency contacts, and ensure those in vulnerable situations (older adults, children, individuals with disabilities, and livestock owners) are ready to evacuate if needed. 
• Level Two – BE SET (Yellow): Be prepared to leave at any moment. This indicates significant wildfire danger. Voluntary evacuation is encouraged—especially for those needing extra time to relocate safely. 
• Level Three – GO (Red): Evacuate immediately! This means extreme danger is present, and it is unsafe to remain in place. Emergency responders may not be able to assist further. Leave immediately without gathering belongings and check TripCheck.com or call 511 for evacuation routes. 

After evacuating, do not return until officials declare it safe. You can find additional wildfire preparedness resources at wildfire.oregon.gov. 

Additional Wildfire Preparedness Resources 

• OEM's Wildfire Alert Graphics 
• OEM's Evacuation Level Graphics 
• 2025 Oregon State Fire Marshall's Wildfire Awareness Month Messaging Toolkit 
• Stay Safe While Driving During Smokey Conditions 
• Vehicles can cause wildfires so make sure yours doesn't 

Getting an insurance check-up. Your insurance policy may not cover floods or wildfires. Talk to your agent to make sure you have the right kind and amount of insurance.  

• Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety – Wildfire Ready 
• Division of Financial Regulation – Wildfires Insurance Resources 
• Filing a homeowners claim after a fire (English) 
• Filing a homeowners claim after a fire (Spanish) 
• Division of Financial Regulation – Wildfires Messaging Toolkit 

# # #

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licInfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711.

On May 26th, 2025, at about 8:30 pm, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a single vehicle crash over an embankment in a remote location on the United States Forest Service 53 Road outside of Waldport, OR. Deputies responded with fire and medics. 45-year-old Calvin Moreschini of Waldport, OR, was contacted at the scene, and 45-year-old David Vargues was injured near where the vehicle came to rest. The vehicle was located approximately 100 feet down a steep, heavily brushed embankment. Rescuers worked quickly to provide medical care for Calvin and David using high-angle rope systems to retrieve David from over the embankment. Both Calvin and David were transported by ambulance to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital, however, David died from his injuries. With assistance from the Oregon State Police and the City of Newport Police Department, it was determined that Calvin was impaired by alcohol at the time of the crash, and he was subsequently arrested. Calvin was charged with Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Reckless Driving, and DUII, and was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail. David’s next of kin have been notified.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to express our sincere condolences to David’s friends and family, and our appreciation for the teamwork of Oregon State Police, the City of Newport Police Department, Central Coast Fire & Rescue, Yachats Rural Fire Protection District, Seal Rock Fire District, and Pacific West Ambulance.

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SALEM, Ore. - Oregon National Guard Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen participated in several Memorial Day observances across the state on May 26, 2025, a day dedicated to honoring all those who died in service to the United States during both peacetime and war.

At Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, delivered a Memorial Day address as the keynote speaker to those gathered for the 75th Annual Memorial Day Observance.

“On this solemn occasion of Memorial Day, we gather to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great nation,” Gronewold said. “They chose to serve willingly, full-heartedly, courageously, and for a greater purpose.”

While describing the loss of service members from Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, Gronewold said that a portion of Willamette National Cemetery is especially meaningful.  

“It’s a sobering feeling to walk among the headstones here, particularly in sections X and W, where our Soldiers from Operation Iraqi Freedom have been laid to rest,” he said. “Being here allows us all a time for quiet contemplation and an opportunity to gain perspective on life’s passage.”

Elsewhere in Oregon, other Oregon National Guard leaders spoke to those gathered on this significant day of national remembrance. Both the 142nd Wing out of Portland and the 173rd Fighter Wing out of Klamath Falls flew patriotic flyovers at multiple events.

In Salem at the State Capital grounds, Oregon Army National Guard Col. Russell Gibson, 82nd Troop Command Brigade Commander, Oregon Military Department Director of Government and Legislative Affairs, delivered remarks, honoring fallen service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.

During a Memorial Day service held at the Restlawn Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home in Salem, retired Oregon Army National Guard Col. Kevin Dial addressed attendees gathered to remember fallen service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation.

The Oregon National Guard provides the citizens of the State of Oregon and the United States with a ready force of citizen Soldiers and Airmen, equipped and trained to respond to any contingency, natural or man-made. "Always Ready, Always There."

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Release Images:

250526-Z-CH590-1043: Chaplain (Col.) Jacob A. Scott, Oregon National Guard State Chaplain, delivers the Invocation at the start of the Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, on May 26, 2025. This year marked the 75th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250526-Z-CH590-1254 and 250526-Z-CH590-1262: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, delivers a Memorial Day address as the keynote speaker to those gathered at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon, on May 26, 2025. This year marked the 75th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250526-Z-CH590-1072: Military members of a Joint Service Honor Guard team prepare the Posting of Colors to begin the 75th Annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, on May 26, 2025. The Honor Guard detail included service members from the Oregon Army and Air National Guard, and Navy and Marine Corps reservists in Oregon. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250526-Z-CH590-1341: Military members of a Joint Service Honor Guard team perform a rifle salute during the Memorial Day Observance held at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, on May 26, 2025. This year marked the 75th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250526-Z-CH590-1160: A ceremonial wreath is presented by the Gold Star Wives during the Memorial Day Observance held at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, on May 26, 2025. This year marked the 75th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250526-Z-ZJ128-1001: Oregon Army National Guard Color Guard members salute during the presentation of colors at the 2025 ODVA Statewide Memorial Day Ceremony at the Oregon World War II Memorial on the Oregon State Capitol grounds in Salem, Oregon, May 26, 2025. Pictured is Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Cox, Staff Sgt. Steven Olson, Sgt. Wyatt Wampoer and Spc. Peter May. The ceremony honored fallen service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

250526-Z-ZJ128-1002 and 250526-Z-ZJ128-1003: Oregon Army National Col. Russell Gibson, 82nd Troop Command Brigade Commander and Oregon Military Department Director of Government and Legislative Affairs, delivers remarks during the 2025 ODVA Statewide Memorial Day Ceremony at the Oregon World War II Memorial on the Oregon State Capitol grounds in Salem, Oregon, May 26, 2025. The ceremony brought together Oregonians from across the state to honor fallen service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

250526-Z-ZJ128-1004: Oregon Army National Guard Color Guard members pose with Miss America pageant contestants during the 2025 ODVA Statewide Memorial Day Ceremony at the Oregon World War II Memorial on the Oregon State Capitol grounds in Salem, Oregon, May 26, 2025. The Miss America contestants, who helped with the ceremony by handing out programs, are pictured left to right: Kendra Huntington, Miss Majestic Lakes; Emily Redling, Miss Linn Benton 2025; Mila Pearl, Miss Portland Metro Teen 2025; and Em DeGraness, Miss City Bridges Teen 2025. The ceremony honored fallen service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

20250526-Z-UZ129-1001: Retired Oregon Army National Guard Col. Kevin Dial addresses attendees during a Memorial Day ceremony at Restlawn Memory Gardens and Funeral Home in Salem, Ore., May 26, 2025. Attendees gathered to remember fallen service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office)

20250526-Z-UZ129-1002: Oregon Army National Guard Funeral Honors Spc. Patrick Ruiz gives a folded flag to Susan Dougherty in honor of her husband, U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Patrick Dougherty, during a Memorial Day ceremony at Restlawn Memory Gardens and Funeral Home in Salem, Ore., May 26, 2025. Attendees gathered to remember fallen service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office)

20250526-Z-UZ129-1003: Attendees at a Memorial Day ceremony at Restlawn Memory Gardens and Funeral Home select roses in honor of loved ones who have passed, May 26, 2025, in Salem, Oregon.. Attendees gathered to remember fallen service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office)

20250526-Z-UZ129-1004: Attendees at a Memorial Day ceremony at Restlawn Memory Gardens and Funeral Home select roses in honor of loved ones who have passed, May 26, 2025, in Salem, Oregon.. Attendees gathered to remember fallen service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office)

PORTLAND, Ore. (May 26, 2025): Nearly 90,000 Oregon adults have moderate to severe gambling problems, and another 180,000 are at risk for a gambling disorder, according to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). Young people are not immune, with an estimated 25,000 Oregon adolescents ages 12 to 17 at risk for gambling issues.

The rapid rise of online betting platforms has made gambling easier to access than ever before, fueling concerns about addiction and its impact on mental health. In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, Kaiser Permanente Northwest is bringing attention to the connection between mental health disorders and gambling addiction and encouraging those who are struggling to seek help.

"Problematic gambling or gambling addiction often go hand in hand with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and other mental health issues," said Eric Tran, MD, an addiction psychiatrist with Kaiser Permanente in the Portland metro area. "While gambling may temporarily seem exciting or joyful, this diminishes over time. In the long run, the gambling can create an unhealthy cycle and sow more distress."

Depression and anxiety disorders are known risk factors in the progression of gambling disorders, but early detection and treatment can prevent further complications.

"Gambling disorders, along with other substance use disorders or behavioral addictions, are treatable mental health conditions that deserve attention and compassion," Dr. Tran added. "At Kaiser Permanente, mental health clinicians—including medical providers, counselors, case managers, and peer support—work with patients to create personalized care plans to address patients’ individual goal and circumstances. We believe treating the addiction, mental health, and the patient holistically leads to the greatest results,” Dr. Tran explained. "We offer a combination of therapy, groups, medication, and self-help resources. There’s a great wealth of resources and we want to make sure our members know that support is readily available."

Kaiser Permanente supports the Oregon Health Authority’s efforts to address gambling disorders by encouraging the use of Evive, a new, free app designed to help Oregonians reduce or stop gambling. Available for both Apple and Android devices, Evive provides flexible tools, including access to professionally trained counselors, peer support, and self-directed strategies, at no cost to Oregonians. It's designed to reach individuals wherever they are, whether they're ready for treatment or just thinking about making a change.

Interviews available:

Eric Tran, MD, psychiatrist with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, is available for Zoom interviews on Tuesday, May 27 from 10:45-11:45 a.m. and 1:30-2:30 p.m. en.a.vitt@kp.org" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: blue;" title="mailto:karen.a.vitt@kp.org">Contact Karen Vitt to schedule.

Dr. Tran is prepared to discuss:

• The connection between mental health conditions and gambling addiction
• Early warning signs gambling is becoming a problem
• How family history and genetics can affect gambling risk
• How integrated, personalized mental health care results in improved outcomes
• How early intervention tools like the Evive app can help reduce stigma and access barriers to care
• Tips for helping a loved one who may be struggling

ABOUT KAISER PERMANENTE  
Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve nearly 12.6 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, please visit: about.kaiserpermanente.org 

Kelso, WA – Firefighters from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue responded to a house fire in the 800 block of North 1^st Ave Monday morning at 9:15.  Arriving firefighters reported heavy smoke and flames coming from the back of the single-story home and attacked the fire knocking it down within ten minutes.  All occupants of the home, two adult females, were able to evacuate and will be assisted by the American Red Cross for shelter and other needs.    Resources from Cowlitz County Fire District 5 (Kalama) were also dispatched but were later canceled as they were not needed.  Three fire engines, a ladder truck, a medic unit, and a Chief Officer responded to the fire.  The fire was completely extinguished at 9:06.  Fire officials stated the cause of the fire was accidental.  No injuries were reported.  

Date: Wed, June 11th, 2025

Time: 7 pm

Location: Kiggins Theatre Vancouver, Wa

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: https://www.scienceontaporwa.org/events/kiggins_june_11_butterflies/

You’ve probably heard of monarch butterflies, but have you heard of a Bartram’s scrub-hairstreak?

What about a St. Francis’ satyr? A Taylor’s checkerspot?

In the United States there are 21 butterfly species listed as federally threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. All of these butterflies have unique ecologies that help them survive, whether it’s relying on a particular ant species for protection, or the regular bombing of artillery ranges to maintain habitat, or waiting for rain.

With recent headlines of butterfly declines in the news, learn what conservation scientists are doing to try to recover some of America’s rarest butterflies and what you can do for butterflies in your own backyard.

Dr. Erica Henry is the Prairie Ecologist with the WA Department of Fish and Wildlife. She has worked on endangered butterfly research projects from the Everglades and Florida Keys to coastal meadows of Oregon. Through this work, she has developed an intimate knowledge of the natural history of many of the US’s endangered butterflies and how we can use that information to improve conservation actions.

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.

Tillamook County, Ore. 25 May 2025- On Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 6:07 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 26, near milepost 31, in Tillamook County.

The preliminary investigation indicated westbound Toyota Rav4, operated by Fred Camino (64) of Seattle (WA), crossed the centerline for unknown reasons and stuck an eastbound Nissan Sentra, operated by Bassam Jabra Moussan (62) of Austin (TX), head-on. 

The operator of the Toyota (Camino) and passenger, Ann Martinez (60) of Seattle (WA), suffered serious injuries and were transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Nissan, Bassam Jabra Moussan, and passengers, Matthew James Moussan (34) of Vancouver (WA) and Whitne Daniel Moussan (30) of Davis (CA), all suffered serious injuries and were transported to an area hospital.

A passenger in Nissan, Michelle Marie Moussan (59) of Vancouver (WA), was delcared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by Banks Fire, Elsie Fire, Hillsboro Fire, Washington County Sheriff's Office, 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.

Deschutes County, Ore. 25 May 2025- On Friday, May 23, 2025, at 2:22 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 164, in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a 2003 Ford Taurus, operated by Marvin Lee Cudd Jr. (76) of Sunriver, was stopped on the northbound shoulder of Highway 97 facing westbound, perpendicular to the roadway. The Ford began to cross the highway and was struck by a northbound Chevrolet Silverado 2500, operated by Joshua Dale Musick (43) of Christmas Valley, on the driverside door.

The operator of the Ford (Cudd) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Musick) suffered minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by LaPine Fire, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, 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.

On May 24th, 2025, at 5:34 PM, McMinnville Police and McMinnville Fire District personnel responded to a motor vehicle accident where a pedestrian was struck at the intersection of SW Old Sheridan RD and SW Cypress LN in McMinnville. The pedestrian, identified as 46-year-old Audra Ackerman of McMinnville, was deceased at the scene. The driver of the white Ford F250 (pulling a landscaping trailer), identified as 68-year-old Jose Huerta of McMinnville, remained on scene and was cooperative with investigators.

Ackerman was reportedly walking her dog, crossing the road northbound at this location, when she and her dog were struck, killing both. Huerta’s vehicle was westbound on Cypress LN, and he and his two passengers were not injured. Notifications were made to Ackerman's family, and our condolences go out to her family, and everyone impacted by this incident.

The roadway was closed for the investigation for approximately three hours. There is no indication that intoxicants or excess vehicle speed were contributing factors in this crash, and the overall investigation to date indicates this was a tragic accident. With summer approaching, this is an unfortunate opportunity to remind community members that there will be an increase in pedestrian traffic, and pedestrians should always take extra care when crossing streets. Drivers should also be conscious of how sun glare can make it difficult to see pedestrians, especially when driving in the evening hours.

McMinnville Police would like to thank the McMinnville Fire District, Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and Newberg-Dundee Police for their assistance in this incident.

Lebanon, Oregon

On Saturday May 24, 2025, at 0920, Lebanon Firefighters responded to multiple cars on fire in the 700 block of W Grant Street. The first unit to arrive was an Albany Fire Department medic unit that was moved up to Lebanon to help cover the District as multiple, simultaneous 911 calls were occurring in the city. The firefighters relayed to dispatch and incoming units of two vehicles fully engulfed and near a structure. Lebanon Fire crews arrived and quickly went to work fighting the blaze when an explosion from inside a vehicle rocked the neighborhood, sending debris into nearby yards and streets. Firefighters continued to advance, extinguishing the blaze and keeping the fire from entering the house. A second engine arrived and went to work, checking the inside of the house for extension of fire and making sure all residents were out. Unfortunately, while firefighters were battling the car fires the remains of a local resident that had been living in one of the cars was discovered.

Firefighters had the incident under control in about 20 minutes with all three cars extinguished while the incident commander contacted the Lebanon Police about the victim, and at that time the street was shut down to process and investigate. Lebanon Fire Investigation Team assisted at the scene with members of the local law enforcement, while two firefighters were evaluated at the local area hospital with minor injuries sustained when the explosion occurred. The cause of the fire remains under investigation and the residents of the structure have been displaced until power can be restored to the home.

The Lebanon Fire District responded to the blaze with 17 personnel on one ladder truck, one engine, one fire/medic from Albany Fire, one fire/medic from Lebanon, one heavy rescue, two chief officers and a Deputy Fire Marshal. Firefighters were assisted at the scene by Lebanon Police and Pacific Power. Albany Fire Department provided an engine to help cover the District while the incident took place.

Be Safe Lebanon…

At 3:40pm on Saturday May 24th, firefighters were dispatched to a reported barn fire on NW Soda Springs Road in the rural community of Gales Creek. Fire crews arrived minutes later to find a 400 square foot shed fully engulfed in flames and mostly collapsed on itself. Firefighters worked on preventing the flames spreading to a nearby grass field and then extinguished the reminants of the burning building. 

Talking with the property owner, investigators determined that they had a burn pile approximately 20 feet from the shed and with the afternoon wind shift, embers spread to the shed. 
 

Escaped burn piles cause dozens of fires in our region every year. If you're allowed to conduct a burn pile, follow the these simple safety tips:

• Never leave a burn pile unattended
• Have proper equipment like a hose and shovel ready to use
• Clear a bare dirt area around the burn pile
• Fully extinguish the fire when done, make sure there are no more warm embers 

Forest Grove Fire & Rescue was assisted on scene by Banks Fire District. 
 

###

Major Tommy Vu completes 1,422 repetitions in one hour at West Salem gym

WEST SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Army National Guard Physician Assistant Major Tommy Vu set a new world record May 23, 2025, for the most hand-release push-ups completed in one hour, achieving 1,422 repetitions at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem.

The record attempt, which required a minimum of 1,250 repetitions to qualify as an official Guinness World Record, marks Vu's seventh world record achievement. Previous records for this category had remained unbroken due to a lack of official attempts to meet the qualifying threshold.

"My goal was to break the record, but when I talked to my commanding officer about it, he said if I didn't get 1,350, that wouldn't be good enough," Vu explained following the grueling hour-long performance. "So I was really happy when I looked over and saw 1,350. I asked them to take a photo to show him I did it."

True to his tradition, Vu dedicated $1 per repetition to charity, with proceeds benefiting cancer research in honor of his friend Ilsa, who recently completed her first marathon while battling brain cancer.

The achievement comes after previous challenges for Vu, including developing rhabdomyolysis from his recent burpee pull-up record attempt and illness that forced the postponement of his initial attempt at this record.

Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, the adjutant general of Oregon, said Vu's latest achievement demonstrates the caliber of individuals who serve in the Oregon National Guard.

"Major Vu's ability to excel in his medical profession while pursuing personal challenges at the highest level reflects the multifaceted talent we see throughout our ranks," Gronewold said. "His commitment to giving back through charitable donations with each record attempt embodies the service-oriented mindset that defines our Guard members."

"People always ask when I'm going to stop or when enough is enough,"

Vu said. "There's always going to be charity out there, people to help, and records to break, so I'll just keep going until I run out of steam."

This latest accomplishment adds to Vu's impressive record-setting career, which includes previous world records for burpees and other fitness challenges, all while serving his community and country as a medical officer in the Oregon Army National Guard.

The record is pending official verification by Guinness World Records.'

Released B-Roll Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/964035/oregon-national-guard-physician-assistant-sets-new-world-record-hand-release-push-ups

Release Photos:

251223-Z-ZJ128-1001

Oregon Army National Guard Physician Assistant Maj. Tommy Vu performs the hand-release portion of a push-up during his world record attempt for most hand-release push-ups in one hour at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem, Ore., May 23, 2025. Vu's wife, Linda, can be seen in the background, capturing the historic moment. Vu completed 1,422 repetitions, setting a new world record pending official verification by Guinness World Records. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

251223-Z-ZJ128-1002

Oregon Army National Guard member Pedro Velasquez keeps the official count while friends and spectators perform push-ups alongside Maj. Tommy Vu during his world record attempt for most hand-release push-ups in one hour at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem, Ore., May 23, 2025. Vu encourages participants at all his record attempts to complete repetitions with him for additional motivation during the grueling hour-long challenge. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

251223-Z-ZJ128-1003

Oregon Army National Guard Physician Assistant Maj. Tommy Vu grimaces with maximum effort at the apex of a push-up as the counter shows 1,413 repetitions with just 26 seconds remaining in his world record attempt at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem, Ore., May 23, 2025. Vu would complete 1,422 hand-release push-ups in one hour, setting a new world record pending official verification by Guinness World Records. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

251223-Z-ZJ128-1004

A sweat-soaked Oregon Army National Guard Physician Assistant, Maj. Tommy Vu points to the counter displaying 1,422 repetitions after completing his world record attempt for most hand-release push-ups in one hour at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem, Ore., May 23, 2025. Vu's achievement marks his seventh world record and is pending official verification by Guinness World Records. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

251223-Z-ZJ128-1005

Oregon Army National Guard Physician Assistant Maj. Tommy Vu holds his son Adonis while surrounded by friends and family who came out to support his world record attempt at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem, Ore., May 23, 2025. His wife, Linda, holds a large donation check for $1,422, representing $1 for each repetition completed, which will be donated to cancer research. The counter in the foreground displays Vu's final total of 1,422 hand-release push-ups, setting a new world record pending official verification by Guinness World Records. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

Opening day to feature launch of new “Full Basket” program, singer-songwriter Brenna Larsen, children’s activities & more

Portland, Oregon, May 23, 2025 – Rocky Butte Farmers Market opens for the season Saturday, May 24 at its NE Siskiyou and 80th Ave. location, 9 am-1 pm.

The market will feature more than 20 vendors, educational programming and an exciting new community-care initiative called pahtl o’-pe-kwan in Chinuk Wawa — or “Full Basket”, that will provide needed support for those visiting the Roseway neighborhood market. Rocky Butte is the first market of the season to launch Full Basket.
 

The new program is thanks to a generous collaboration led by the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) and the Cully, Woodlawn, and Rocky Butte farmers markets that have teamed up to provide $50 in weekly tokens to market patrons who are receiving supplemental government assistance, which can be used to purchase produce, meat, eggs, fish, and more. 
 

Opening Day will Feature:

• Live Music by popular local singer-songwriter Brenna Larsen: https://www.brennalarsenmusic.com/
   

• Community Educator Caitlyn Whitcomb will launch the season’s Kids’ Booth activities. Early birds have the best chance of getting a $5 kids token to spend at the market.
   

• Roseway Prepares will be spreading awareness of NET (Neighborhood Emergency Team) at the market’s non-profit booth.
   

• A representative from Multnomah County will be at the market to distribute free Narcan and provide training/answer questions. (https://multco.us/info/overdose-prevention)

In addition to “Full Basket,” Rocky Butte Farmers Market provides a number of other ways to make shopping at the market easier and more affordable: 

• SNAP recipients can double their purchasing power with up to $20 matched per visit thanks to Double Up Food Bucks;

• shoppers who arrive by bus or bike can receive a $5tokens, thanks to the Metro RTC grant;

• access to essential resources such as SNAP eligibility screenings through Hunger-Free Oregon and regular distribution of free COVID tests and naloxone to support public health and safety in our community.

Each week Rocky Butte Farmers Market collects excess food from vendors to donate directly to Mainspring Pantry. This keeps high-quality, locally grown produce and handmade baked goods within the community to ensure that everyone has access to fresh, seasonal food, regardless of income.
 

New to the market this year will be Veg-Education and food demos in collaboration with high school students in McDaniel High School’s Sustainable Agriculture CTE Program. This initiative focuses on lesser-known, in-season produce and helps educate shoppers on how to incorporate these foods into their weekly meals. Veg-Education will include student-tested recipes, an educational zine, storage and preparation tips to reduce food waste, a social media campaign, and live cooking demos at the market.
 

More than just a market, Rocky Butte Farmers Market strives to be an impactful community resource - collaborating with neighboring food pantries, nonprofits, and gardens to provide services to underserved community members, increase access to education and food security, and positively impact the ecology, health, and overall community well-being.

Rocky Butte Farmers Market will open Saturday, May 24, 2025, in the Roseway neighborhood at NE Siskiyou, between 79th and 81st. The Market runs every Saturday, 9 am-1 pm through October 25.
 

Learn more about the market, this year's vendors, the weekly entertainment or apply to be a vendor at www.rockybuttemarket.com. Follow the market on Instagram at @rockybuttefarmersmarket and Facebook at @RockyButteFarmersMarket to stay informed on news and updates.
 

2025 Vendor List: 

• Bioenergeteic Balance

• Bread Box

• Delectable Delights

• Fresh Love

• Joyful Sudz

• Klay Arsenault Art & Illustration

• La Comelona Foods

• Mainspring

• Modern Medicinals CBD

• Mr Baklava

• New Deal Distillery

• Oil Slick Coffee

• OneUp Farm

• Pablo Munoz Farms

• Parkrose Greenhouse

• Ripe Fig Farm

• Rowen Forest

• Simpson’s Refill Co.

• Sweetpea’s

• Tres Angelitos y un Colibrí

• TT’s Bakehouse

• Vozee Custom Leather & Dye

• Whisper of Essence

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Plus more at the community table!

• Vorfreude Dairy Beef

• Under the Pines GF Bread

• Local produce

TUALATIN, OR — The City of Tualatin is proud to announce the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly completed Veterans Plaza, taking place on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, at 9:30am at Tualatin Lake of the Commons. This special event marks the culmination of five years of planning, community input, and construction aimed at honoring the service and sacrifice of local veterans and their families.

Veterans Plaza was thoughtfully designed as a place of peaceful reflection, featuring native plantings and stone elements that create a serene atmosphere. The plaza is now also home to three original sculptures by nationally renowned artist Douwe Blumberg, selected by the Veterans Plaza Service-Inspired Art Committee for their powerful storytelling and emotional resonance.

“This plaza represents our community’s deep respect and appreciation for those who have served,” said Tualatin Mayor Frank Bubenik. “It is a lasting tribute to our veterans and their families as it is a space where people can gather, remember, and reflect. We are proud to open this meaningful place to the public on Memorial Day.”

Following the ribbon cutting, attendees are invited to join the annual Memorial Day Observance at 10:45 AM, held across the Lake of the Commons. The observance will continue the day’s recognition of veterans and provide a solemn space for remembrance.

The City invites all community members, veterans, and their families to attend this momentous occasion.

For more information, visit www.tualatinoregon.gov.

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The Centennial School District Governing Board will convene for a Work Session on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 6:45 p.m. 

Please be aware that our Second Budget Committee Meeting will take place from 6:00 - 6:45 pm prior to the Work Session. If you are interested in more information regarding our Budget Meetings you can find it on our website

The full board meeting packet is available for reference on the Centennial School District website on the School Board page. To view the agenda and accompanying documents, click or paste this link into your browser: https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/1561. Please be aware,  the meeting agenda and associated documents may be updated as necessary.

All attendees will participate virtually via the Zoom app.  If you are interested in joining either meeting, please click on the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86521160187?pwd=K3FGMTUrOVdKRUVDUW80SmtFSTdFZz09
Passcode:601772

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

Webinar ID: 865 2116 0187
Passcode: 601772

For information regarding this Board Meeting, please email dan@csd28j.org">melissa_grindle@csd28j.org or oard@csd28j.org">board@csd28j.org.

DATE: Tuesday, May 27, 2025

TIME: 5:30/Retiree Recognition and 6:00/Regular Board Meeting

LOCATION: Hockinson Community Center & via Zoom

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

OREGON CITY – Spring is here and Clackamas Community College music students will bring music to your ears. From jazz to choral to acoustic, there’s a performance for all tastes. Unless otherwise noted, performances are at 7:30 p.m. in the Niemeyer Osterman Theatre, 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City. General admission is $5 and free for CCC students.

Clackapalooza

May 29, noon-5 p.m., Oregon City campus quad

Enjoy a free outdoor music festival featuring a full afternoon of live performances by bands and songwriters—each with at least one current CCC student and planned entirely by second-year Music and Performance Technology students. From indie and rock to funk, folk, and original songwriting, there’s something for everyone.

Instrumental Jazz Night

June 3

Clackamas Community College’s spring concert series opens with a night of jazz featuring performances by the CCC Jazz Combo and Jazz Ensemble, with guest Chris Shuttleworth on trombone. Enjoy an evening of student-led improvisation, classic charts and big band sounds.

Contemporary Music Ensemble and Songwriters Concert

June 4

The Contemporary Music Ensemble and CCC Songwriters take the stage for a night of pop/rock classics and original tunes. Don’t miss a special collaboration with Clackamas Wind Ensemble and the Advanced Vocal Ensemble choir for an epic performance of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

Wind Ensemble and Classical Guitar Ensemble Concert

June 5

The CCC Wind Ensemble and Classical Guitar Ensemble will perform a varied selection of classical and contemporary works with guest soloist Joe Klause performing Henri Tomasi’s Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra. The program also includes performances by the CCC Guitar Ensemble and a student piano duo, highlighting collaborative work from across the Music Department’s instrumental programs.

Vocal Ensemble and Advanced Vocal Ensemble Concert

June 6

The CCC Vocal Ensemble and Advanced Vocal Ensemble, directed by Hollingsworth, present a program program of choral music. This event will highlight the artistry and versatility of CCC’s vocal students.

To purchase tickets, visit clackamasmusic.eventbrite.com. For more information about any of these events, contact Ami Collofello at ami.collofello@clackamas.edu. See a complete listing of upcoming music performances at www.clackamas.edu/music-events.  

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The City of Battle Ground is now accepting applications for the Battle Ground University (BGU) Class of 2025!  BGU is designed to Educate, Engage, and Empower our community; providing “students” with an in-depth look at how the City of Battle Ground operates. 

City staff will serve as the “faculty”, providing information on a wide range of topics including:

• City Administration – September 9
• Finance – September 23
• Public Works – September 30
• Community Development – October 14
• Public Safety – October 28

Classes will be held from 6:30 – 8:00 pm on alternating Tuesdays, starting September 9, 2025.  A graduation ceremony for BGU students will take place during the November 3, 2025, City Council Meeting. 

Battle Ground University is a free program that is open to the public, pre-registration required.  Participants should be at least 18 years old.  Registration is open until 5:00 pm (PST) on August 15, 2025.  Apply online at www.cityofbg.org/BGU.  There, you may also participate in a brief online survey that will help inform the program curriculum.  Share your insights about the city services and operations you are interested in learning more about.

For more information regarding Battle Ground University please contact Alisha Smith, Communications Manager, at 360-342-5004 or via email at pio.info@cityofbg.org.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On May 2, 2025, a Washington County jury found Nicholas James Richmond guilty of two counts of burglary in the first degree, theft in the first degree, criminal mischief in the first degree, aggravated theft in the first degree, and four counts of felon in possession of a firearm. On May 12, 2025, the defendant was sentenced to five years in prison and ordered to pay more than $57,000 in restitution to his victims. Deputy District Attorney Mahalee Streblow prosecuted this case before Judge Andrew Erwin.

On January 29, 2024, Tualatin police were notified that someone broke into a locked and refrigerated trailer and a separate shipping container belonging to an area robotics company. They reported 40 lithium batteries worth $44,000 were stolen along with a riding lawnmower and other personal effects. The burglar used a cutting torch to gain entry, which caused another $1,000 in damage to the trailer.
 

The victim located a Facebook marketplace post advertising the sale of one of the stolen batteries and alerted police. Investigators set up a meeting with the seller. When she arrived, she had three of the stolen batteries with her. She told detectives that her husband and the defendant were concealing the stolen equipment at a storage facility. Investigators located a storage facility close to the defendant’s home and confirmed he was renting a unit there. After obtaining a search warrant, they entered the unit and found 12 of the missing batteries. They also obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s truck, where they located multiple guns. The defendant is a convicted felon and barred from possessing firearms. Investigators then obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s phone, where they discovered deleted pictures of the stolen riding lawnmower.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the investigative work of the Tualatin Police Department on this case. Mr. Richmond will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to serve his sentence.

OREGON CITY – The Clackamas Community College Environmental Learning Center is launching its popular Nature Spy Explorer Kits with a brand-new theme for summer. The Water Wizard Kit brings the world of wetlands to life with materials in both English and Spanish, and allows children to experience the many wonders of water while learning and playing – from the comfort of home and neighborhood.

The Wetland Wonder Kits are conveniently shipped to homes and contains all the supplies to keep children entertained and inspired throughout the summer:  

• Materials in English and Spanish
• Easy-to-follow instructions
• Materials for creating a nature-themed craft
• Nature journal page with fun facts
• Activities to keep children exploring
• Nature-themed memory card game

Kits ship on Thursdays, June 5 through Aug. 28, or choose to pick up in person to explore the wonders of the wetland at the ELC. The cost is $50 and includes shipping. To purchase kits, visit https://bit.ly/nature-spy-kits-summer-2025. For more information, contact jessie.mulcahy@clackamas.edu.

About the Environmental Learning Center

The Environmental Learning Center has a rich history as an educational resource for Clackamas Community College, regional schools, industry and the community. Located on the former site of a Smucker's processing plant, the center was created to demonstrate what people could do to reclaim industrial sites, address stormwater issues and restore wildlife habitats in urban areas. Each year thousands of people visit to explore the 5-acre site and learn about watershed health. The site serves as an important stormwater facility for the college campus and provides critical wetland habitat for resident and migratory birds, such as the great blue heron, wood duck and merganser. For more information about the Environmental Learning Center, visit CCC's Environmental Learning Center webpage.

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OREGON CITY— Kick off an electrifying summer at Clackamas Community College's fourth annual Summer Connections, a celebration of Juneteenth and Pride Month. The event includes a resource fair and entertainment lineup, tasty food and interactive activities for all ages.

This festive, family-friendly event will be held on Friday, June 6, 5-7:30 p.m. in the Wacheno Welcome Center on CCC’s Oregon City campus. There will be local community vendors sharing their exciting summer activities and service schedules, electric trivia showdowns, engaging kid-friendly activities, delicious food and sweet treats from an on-site ice cream truck. There will also be music provided by a live DJ and musical performances by local artists.

“Summer Connections has been and continues to be an intentional opportunity for community members to gather and easily discover the different summer activities and essential services that are available right here in Clackamas County,” Tina Francisco-Evans, program coordinator for the Cougar Leadership, Education and Advocacy for Progress Office, said. “It also gives us a chance to support local talent and organizations, laugh with our neighbors and strengthen our community bonds through good food and good music.”

Summer Connections is sponsored by the Clackamas Community College Foundation, Clackamas County, Clackamas County Early Learning Hub, the city of West Linn, Respond to Racism and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde.

This is a free event and open to the public. Clackamas Community College is located at 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City. Parking is free. For more information, visit CCC's Summer Connections webpage.

Are you looking for a unique way to celebrate Dad this year? Climb aboard for a train ride that promises fun for the whole family! On Saturday, June 14th, Oregon Rail Heritage Center is rolling out a special pre-Father’s Day celebration.

Trains will depart at 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM. Each ride lasts approximately 45 minutes and takes passengers on a round-trip journey down to Oaks Park and back along the beautiful Willamette River. Tickets are priced at $24 for adults, $16 for children, and $21.60 for seniors and active or retired military.

Whether you’re surprising Dad with a family adventure, or simply enjoying the charm of traveling by railroad, this is an experience you won’t want to miss. 

Tickets are available at https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/orhf/items/548042/calendar/2025/06/?flow=469974 

SALEM, Ore. — The Adaptive Management Program Committee will meet at noon on Monday, June 2 in the Clatsop Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Questions and answers with the Independent Research and Science Team (IRST) co-chairs regarding scoping proposals
• Discuss the Adaptive Management Program (AMP) research agenda framework
• Discuss details of AMP research agenda
• Address IRST’s clarifying questions re: Amphibians research questions

The meeting is open to the public to attend in person or online via Teams. Public comments will be accepted near the start of the meeting. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at ogram@odf.oregon.gov">adaptivemanagementprogram@odf.oregon.gov.

The 13-member Adaptive Management Program Committee helps determine if forest practices are meeting their goals to protect natural resources through a science-based and transparent process. The committee sets the research agenda that the Independent Research and Science Team implements. View more information on the AMPC webpage.

PORTLAND, Ore.—The United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) filed a civil forfeiture action to recover more than $6.7 million in funds alleged to be proceeds of a financial fraud scheme.

“Civil forfeiture is a powerful and important tool in cases like this, and it allows the government to move quickly to seize the stolen funds, seek legal ownership of them, and then promptly return them to the victims,” said Katie de Villiers, Chief of the Asset Recovery and Money Laundering Division for the District of Oregon. “This was only possible here because the crime was reported to law enforcement. The most important takeaway for the public is that if you find yourself the victim of a similar scam, do not delay in contacting law enforcement.”

As alleged in the forfeiture complaint, in February 2025, the City of Portland was targeted by a business impersonation scheme. The scammer, posing as an employee of a company contracted by the city, gained access to a payment system and changed the contractor’s bank account information to an account provided by the scammer. In March 2025, the City of Portland notified law enforcement that a payment intended for the contractor had been diverted to an unauthorized bank account.

On April 16, 2025, the USAO and FBI sought and obtained a federal seizure warrant. The same day, the FBI executed the warrant and seized $6,748,680 of fraudulently-obtained funds. The FBI was able to swiftly seize proceeds of the crime, which were still located in the unauthorized account.

Federal law enforcement uses civil forfeiture to recover proceeds of a crime and attempt to return those proceeds to victims quickly. This is especially important in online-related scams where scammers are often overseas and unable to be identified, hindering a criminal prosecution and forfeiture.

The case was investigated by the FBI and Portland Police Bureau. The civil forfeiture action is being handled by Julia E. Jarrett and Katherine A. Rykken, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

The accusations in the complaint, and the description of the complaint, constitute only allegations that certain property is subject to forfeiture. The United States must prove, by a standard of preponderance of the evidence, that the property is subject to forfeiture.

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Schools of winners, runners-up receive donations

PORTLAND, Ore., — May 23, 2025 — OnPoint Community Credit Union has announced the four winners of the 2025 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Educator of the Year awards:

• K-5 Educator of the Year: Ricardo Barber, 3^rd grade teacher at Faubion Elementary School in Portland
• 6-8 Educator of the Year: Rhiannon Young, 6^th-8^th grade teacher at Corbett Middle School in Corbett
• 9-12 Educator of the Year: Sophia Aguirre, 9^th-12^th grade English language development teacher at Aloha High School in Beaverton
• Gold Star Educator of the Year: Hang Jones, Social Worker at Marysville Elementary School in Portland

The four Educators of the Year will have their mortgage or rent paid for one year and receive $2,500 for each of their schools. In addition, the four runners-up will receive $5,000 for themselves and $1,500 for each of their schools.

“Educators are the heart of our schools and the foundation of our communities,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “This year’s winners and runners-up build trust, spark curiosity and give students a sense of belonging. They lead with heart, inspire confidence and support their community beyond the classroom. We are proud to honor their impact.”

Since 2010, the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education has awarded more than $840,000 in prizes to 326 local educators and schools. The 2025 campaign will award an additional $193,000 to deserving public and private K-12 educators and schools.

2025 Educators of the Year

The four winners of the 2025 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Educator of the Year awards are:

K-5 Educator of the Year – Ricardo Barber

3^rd grade, Faubion Elementary School, Portland

Ricardo Barber has created a classroom culture built on confidence and care, where third graders see themselves as strong, capable and ready to grow. His class consistently exceeds district averages in reading and math. He leads with rigor, real-time feedback and a belief that every child can achieve.

Ricardo centers community and connection in everything he does. He starts each day with a class circle, uses culturally responsive teaching to reflect students’ identities and keeps families engaged with constant communication and praise. When a child makes progress, he calls home to celebrate. When others need support, he adapts instruction to meet them where they are. He and his family also host student dinners to build trust beyond the classroom.

Beyond the school day, Ricardo runs the One H.O.P.E Summer School, a free enrichment program that blends academics, meals and local field trips. As a teacher and a pastor, he brings his whole heart to his work, lifting up every child with purpose, pride, and love.

6-8 Educator of the Year – Rhiannon Young

6^th-8^th grade, Corbett Middle School, Corbett

For more than two decades, Rhiannon Young has shaped Corbett’s middle-level program into a model of hands-on, inclusive, real-world learning. Her students have traced volcanic flows at Mt. St. Helens, walked the streets of Europe during study-abroad trips, and examined history through the lens of both migrant and Indigenous stories.

She runs multi-cultural book clubs to explore identity and representation in student-chosen novels. Her social studies units highlight multiple perspectives from marginalized groups throughout history, such as the post-Revolutionary War and Reconstruction in America.

Rhiannon also helps lead continuous improvement across Corbett and beyond. She serves on the site council and district bargaining team, leads K-12 curriculum alignment, mentors new teachers, and oversees academic intervention services. She also partners with the Multnomah Education Service District to align social studies standards, secure grants for arts and science materials and advocate for equity in every corner of the student experience.

9-12 Educator of the Year – Sophia Aguirre

9^th-12^th grade English Language Development, Aloha High School, Beaverton

In Room E20 at Aloha High School, visitors find more than a classroom — they see a vibrant community stitched together by language, culture, and belonging. Student art and poetry speak in many languages, and every visitor is greeted with warmth and intention. This is the world Sophia Aguirre has created for her English Language Development students: a sanctuary where new arrivals to the U.S. not only learn English but rediscover their confidence, creativity, and voice.

Sophia leads with innovation and heart in and beyond the classroom. She launched school-wide cultural projects like the annual Cultural Fashion Show, raised funds for classroom resources and field trips, and led professional development that puts staff in the shoes of English learners. Sophia is bilingual and currently completing her M.S. in Education in Reading and Literacy, shaping the future not just for her students but also for how schools serve multilingual learners.

Gold Star Educator of the Year – Hang Jones

Social Worker, Marysville Elementary School, Portland

As a bilingual Vietnamese school social worker and immigrant who once dropped out of high school, Hang has unique insight into the challenges Marysville students face. She understands language barriers, the isolation of being new and the fear of not belonging, because she’s been there.

Hang’s work has redefined what support looks like in a school setting. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership in improving student attendance at Marysville, achieving a 5% increase, the highest gain in the district over the past five years. Her creative programs – like classroom “attendance” coloring challenges, donut parties, and student job assignments – give students a reason to show up and a sense of pride when they do.

Hang’s impact stretches far beyond school walls. She’s personally delivered food boxes, arranged medical appointments and interpreters for families, and fought for equitable bus routes for those without transportation. She leads Marysville’s Lunar New Year celebrations and Vietnamese affinity groups, ensuring every student sees their culture reflected with pride. Hang is not just a resource for the Marysville community; she’s a lifeline.

2025 Educator of the Year Runners-up

OnPoint will also award a $5,000 cash prize to each of the following 2025 runners-up and make a $1,500 donation to their schools for resources and supplies.

K-5 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Lisa Lewis

K-1^st Grade, West Powellhurst Elementary, Portland

6-8 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Britta Hobbs

6-8^th Grade Music/Choir, Covington Middle School, Vancouver, (Washington)

9-12 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Katie Ryan

9-12^th Grade Science, Academy of Arts & Academics, Springfield

Gold Star Educator of the Year Runner-up – RJ Tagorda

Principal, Holy Cross Catholic School, Portland

Five Schools Receive Community Builder Awards

The 2025 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education also awarded one Oregon school $5,000 and four Oregon schools $2,000 in Community Builder grants for special projects that enrich their communities. Click here to read about this year's winners, which OnPoint announced on May 7, 2025.

Honoring Founders' Legacy of Excellence in Education

Founded by 16 schoolteachers in 1932, OnPoint continues to honor its legacy today by improving access to quality education for everyone. Click here to learn more.

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About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 613,000 members and with assets of $9.7 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

SALEM, Ore. — The Board of Forestry Governance Committee will meet virtually on Thursday, May 29 at 1 p.m. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Review revised additions to the Board Policies Manual
• Review recommendations for Board Policies Manual edits
• Finalize recommendations for Board of Forestry adoption

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office 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.

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

Date: Friday, May 23, 2025

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Tyler Shoop.

Tyler Shoop, age 15, is a child who went missing from Oregon Health and Science University Hospital in Portland, Ore on May 21, 2025. Tyler Shoop (he/him) was found on May 23, 2025.

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.

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Salem, Ore. – On May 28, 2025, the City of Salem Budget Committee will reconvene to consider changes to the Fiscal Year 2026 Proposed Budget following voter approval of the five-year local option levy on Tuesday.

“I am so grateful for the trust and confidence of our community,” said Mayor Julie Hoy. “Thank you, Salem!  I’m moved by the outpouring of support for our Library, our 90 parks and countless recreation programs and Center 50+. So many have come together in support of these treasured community resources.”  

With the passage of the Local Option Levy, the Budget Committee will reconvene to consider amendments to the FY26 Budget that take into account the new revenue and restoration of services. The property tax revenue generated by the approved levy will be placed in a dedicated and protected account overseen by a committee to ensure that the revenue is used only for purposes outlined in the measure, including:

• Restoring and continuing Salem Public Library services.
• Operation of Center 50+ classes, activities, outreach services and support services.
• Recreation programming, including youth day camps, youth sports and community events.
• Management and maintenance of more than 90 parks, including facilities, playgrounds, splash fountains, sports fields, trails and more.

“This gets us closer to the services our community wants and deserves and shape a stronger future for Salem” said Interim City Manager Krishna Namburi. “I’m grateful to the Budget Committee for their thoughtful leadership, and to our community and staff for their support through this challenging time. In July, with the new fiscal year before us, we can continue to work together to discover possible new revenue solutions, refining and improving quality and efficiency of our service delivery, and advancing our cost savings strategies.”

To-date, the Budget Committee had considered the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Budget proposal which addressed the $13.8 million budget shortfall in funding for Salem Public Library, parks, recreation programs and Center 50+, and other General Fund programs. Now, with the passage of this levy, the Budget Committee will reconvene to consider amendments to the FY26 Budget that take into account the new revenue and restoration of services. Salem’s City Council will next pick up the FY26 Budget on June 9, 2025, after the Budget Committee’s recommended amendments are incorporated. The City will also continue pursuing other opportunities, identifying efficiencies and finding cost savings, including direct engagement with the State of Oregon to pursue funding support for public safety services to State facilities.

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May 22, 2025, Fairview, OR – Reynolds High School and Reynolds Learning Academy graduating seniors will don their caps and gowns for a special “Grad Walk” at their feeder middle schools and feeder elementary schools. In collaboration with high school, middle school and elementary school administrations, as well as the Reynolds School District, graduating seniors will walk through the hallways of their feeder middle schools and elementary schools to receive congratulations from former teachers and RSD’s future graduating students on Friday, May 30.

Graduating seniors will conduct their “Grad Walk” at Reynolds Middle School and Walt Morey Middle School at approximately 9:25am on Friday; with their grad walk at H.B. Lee at approximately 9:15am on Friday. Their “Grad Walk” parade route will take them through the main hallways and through the 8^th grade areas of the middle schools. The graduating seniors will then conduct their “Grad Walk” at their elementary feeder schools.

Salish Ponds Elementary “Grad Walk” will begin at approximately 9:25am, Margaret Scott Elementary “Grad Walk” will begin at approximately 10:05am, Davis Elementary “Grad Walk” will begin at approximately 9:55am, Troutdale Elementary “Grad Walk” will begin at approximately 9:55am, Alder Elementary “Grad Walk” will begin at approximately 10:15am, Hartley Elementary “Grad Walk” will begin at approximately 10:25am, Sweetbriar Elementary “Grad Walk” will begin at approximately 10:55am, Glenfair Elementary “Grad Walk” will begin at approximately 11:15am, Fairview Elementary “Grad Walk” will begin at approximately 10:55am, Woodland Elementary “Grad Walk” will begin at approximately 10:25am, Wilkes Elementary “Grad Walk” will begin at approximately 10:45am.

This year, the Reynolds Learning Academy graduating seniors will celebrate their graduation on Tuesday, June 10^th at 7pm at the Mt. Hood Community College Theater and the Reynolds High School graduating seniors will celebrate their graduation at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Portland on Thursday, June 12^th at 7pm.

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is actively investigating a shooting that occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 17, 2025.

At approximately 5:30 a.m., the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call from a Corvallis resident in the area of Highway 99W and Lakeside Dr, reporting someone had been shot in a vehicle near that location.

The initial information is a woman described as a short Hispanic female with long hair, wearing a long sleeve black shirt, had shot a male in the vehicle.

The shooter is considered armed and was last seen running from the vehicle with another Hispanic female somewhere south of Lakeside Dr and north of the city of Monroe.  The female shooter and the other female have not been located at this time.

As a precaution, BCSO issued an emergency notification to residents in the immediate area, advising them to report any suspicious activity immediately. The public is cautioned not to pick up hitchhikers in the area.

First responders from the Corvallis Fire Department transported the male victim to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis. He is currently being treated for a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

Benton County Sheriff’s Office personnel continue to investigate this incident. Future updates may be provided as they become available.

Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov. Those wishing to remain anonymous can submit tips by calling 541-753-8477(TIPS).

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CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) continues to actively investigate the shooting incident that occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 17, 2025. Detectives have now identified the suspects involved and made one arrest.

On May 20, BCSO Detectives located and arrested 20-year-old Julia Dell Yepez, in Salem. Detectives are continuing to attempt to locate 20-year-old Alexa Montano Corral, who remains at large.

Yepez is currently in custody at the Benton County Jail, being held with $300,000 bail, charged with:

• Attempted Murder
• Assault I
• Menacing
• Unlawful Use of a Firearm
• Reckless Endangering
• Kidnapping II

Investigators believe the suspects used the Chispa dating app to lure the victim into meeting with the intent of stealing from him. Yepez and Corral are also suspects in a nearby county involving the same criminal activity.

If you have had contact with either of these individuals for the sake of online dating or know the whereabouts of Alexa Corral, please contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov or submit tips anonymously by calling 541-753-8477 (TIPS).

The male victim involved in the May 17 incident remains hospitalized as he recovers from a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

As previously reported, at approximately 5:30 a.m. on May 17, the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call from a Corvallis resident in the area of Highway 99W and Lakeside Drive, reporting that someone had been shot in a vehicle near that location.

Initial reports indicated that a short Hispanic female with long hair and wearing a long-sleeve black shirt shot a male in the vehicle. She was last seen fleeing the scene on foot with another Hispanic female, heading south of Lakeside Drive and north of the City of Monroe. Investigators now believe both suspects initially left the area following the incident.

BCSO urges the public to exercise caution when meeting individuals from dating apps—always meet in public and never isolate yourself until you are certain of the other person’s intentions.

Again, BCSO would like to thank the Corvallis Police Department, Philomath Police Department, Corvallis Fire Department, Linn County Sheriff’s Office, and US Marshal’s Office for their assistance with this ongoing investigation.

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CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) has taken both suspects into custody in connection with the shooting incident that occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 17, 2025.

On May 20, BCSO Detectives located and arrested 20-year-old Julia Dell Yepez, of Salem. This evening, May 22, 20-year-old Alexa Montano Corral, of Salem, has also been taken into custody. Both women are being held in connection with multiple charges stemming from the incident.

Investigators believe the suspects used the Chispa dating app to lure the victim into meeting with the intent of stealing from him. Yepez and Corral are also suspects in a nearby county involving similar criminal activity.

If you have had contact with either of these individuals for the sake of online dating please contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov or submit tips anonymously by calling 541-753-8477 (TIPS).

The male victim involved in the May 17 incident is recovering from non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.

As previously reported, at approximately 5:30 a.m. on May 17, the Corvallis Regional Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call from a Corvallis resident in the area of Highway 99W and Lakeside Drive, reporting that someone had been shot in a vehicle near that location.

Initial reports indicated that a short Hispanic female with long hair and wearing a long-sleeve black shirt shot a male in the vehicle. She was last seen fleeing the scene on foot with another Hispanic female, heading south of Lakeside Drive and north of the City of Monroe. Investigators now believe both suspects initially left the area following the incident.

BCSO urges the public to exercise caution when meeting individuals from dating apps—always meet in public and never isolate yourself until you are certain of the other person’s intentions.

BCSO would like to thank the Salem Police Department, Corvallis Police Department, Philomath Police Department, Corvallis Fire Department, Linn County Sheriff’s Office, and US Marshal’s Office for their assistance with this ongoing investigation.

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Millie has been found by a volunteer citizen searching the area at 1:10 AM this morning, and is being connected with family. Clark County Sheriff wants to thank those who assisted in the search, including Battle Ground Police Department, Clark County Search and Rescue, Columbia County Search and Rescue, and unaffiliated citizen volunteers.

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Clark County Sheriff's Office is asking for public assistance in locating a missing elderly woman from the Hockinson area.  Millie is a white female, 84 years old, 5'0 tall, 100 lbs, gray hair, hazel eyes, wearing eyeglasses.  She was last see around 2 PM today (5/22/2025) and last known to be wearing a lime green shirt and blue jeans.  She may forget her name and be confused.  If found, please call 911.

Gresham, Ore.— A third youth has been arrested in connection with a Gresham drive-by shooting.   Police responded to a report of a shooting in the 3500 block of SE Richey Rd in the early hours of May 13^th.  At the scene, officers found shell casings in the street and a nearby home that had been struck by gunfire; however, none of the occupants of the home were injured.

A short time later, Jeffrey Daniel arrived at a local hospital in a private vehicle.  Daniel was in extremely critical condition when he arrived at the hospital.  The vehicle Daniel arrived in was found to have been stolen and two youth who arrived with him were detained. 

Following an investigation, detectives determined Daniel and three juveniles, including the two detained at the hospital, had committed the drive-by shooting on Richey Rd.  During the shooting, gunfire from another occupant of the car struck Daniel, fatally injuring him.  The two youth detained at the hospital were arrested and charged with Attempted Murder and other crimes.

Detectives tracked the third shooting suspect to a residence in northeast Portland.  On Tuesday afternoon, investigators with the Major Crimes Team, assisted by the Portland Police Bureau Special Emergency Reaction Team, served a warrant and took the final suspect into custody. 

Despite the best efforts of hospital staff, Daniel died of his injuries on the afternoon of May 17^th.  With Daniel’s death, the three juvenile suspects, all 16-years-old, are now facing charges of Murder, Attempted Murder, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Conspiracy. 

The vehicle used in the shooting has been located. 

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Detective Huffman at ederick.Huffman@GreshamOregon.gov">Frederick.Huffman@GreshamOregon.gov or Detective Snider at Tim.Snider@GreshamOregon.gov.

The Gresham Police Department would like to thank our law enforcement partners, including the Portland Police Bureau, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Port of Portland Police Department, Oregon State Police, and the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office for their assistance with this investigation. 

Update 5/22/25 5:10 pm

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office has concluded its investigations related to the April 23, 2025, incident.

The death investigation has been determined to be consistent with suicide. There is no evidence of foul play.

A separate investigation into allegations of sex offenses involving a juvenile found probable cause that Charles Gardiner committed the crimes of Sexual Misconduct with a Minor in the First Degree, Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and Possession of Depictions of a Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct. Investigators believe the inappropriate relationship had been ongoing for approximately six to nine months.

At this time, there is no evidence to suggest there are additional victims.

Due to Gardiner’s death, the case is being closed by exceptional clearance. To protect the privacy and well-being of the juvenile victim, no further details will be released.

Update 5/1/2025 2:00pm

The Clark County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the death and the circumstances regarding this incident. In the initial release, it was believed that deputies responded to a residential burglary. The caller had discovered Gardiner in the residence and got into a physical altercation with him before he fled. There is no indication that there was a residential burglary. The Sheriff's Office has split the incident into two investigations, the death investigation and a criminal investigation.

Evidence from the death investigation involving Gardiner is consistent with a suicide. 

The Sheriff's Office has opened a criminal investigation into several sex offenses believed to have been committed by Gardiner against a juvenile victim. 

Due to the sensitive nature of this investigation, additional details cannot be released at this time.

Update 4/25/2025 9:15am

The Clark County Sheriff's Office can confirm that the deceased person in this incident is Charles Gardiner, the Interim Chief of the Cowlitz Tribal Public Safety Department.

The Clark County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Unit is actively investigating this case, including the circumstances of why Gardiner was in the residence.

Due to the nature of this investigation, additional details cannot be released at this time. 

Additional updates will be released when more information is available.

On April 23^rd, at around 9:43 p.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies responded to a report of an occupied residential burglary in the 9000 block of NE 79^th Street in Northeast Vancouver. The caller reported a male subject inside the residence. The male subject fled the residence on foot.

As deputies and other law enforcement officers searched the area, they located a vehicle with a deceased person inside matching the subject’s description. Evidence suggests the individual died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The CCSO Major Crimes Unit is investigating the incident.

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in an Executive & Board Business Meeting on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at the Parkrose District Office, located at 10636 NE Prescott St., Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:00pm.

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

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

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

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Please join us for a short Retiree Recognition at 6:00pm to honor our dedicated Parkrose Retirees! 

Agenda items include but are not limited to: Retiree Recognitions, Election results and recognitions, June LGBTQ+ Pride Month recognition, consent agenda, Student Representatives ASB report and Student school board experience evaluation,  Chair/Vice Chair discussion, funding update, personal device (cell phone) policy and graduation update.  

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

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

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

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

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Tyler Shoop, age 15, a child in foster care who went missing from Oregon Health and Science University Hospital in Portland, Ore on May 21, 2025. Tyler Shoop (he/him) is believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Tyler Shoop and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see Tyler Shoop.

Tyler Shoop is suspected to be in Molalla, Oregon area.

Name: Tyler Shoop
Pronouns: he/him
Date of birth: March 3, 2010
Height: 5-feet-9 inches
Weight: 148 pounds
Hair: Blonde
Eye color: Blue Eyes
Other identifying information: Tyler has significant medical condition that requires hospitalization.  Tyler is also an enrolled member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma
Portland Police Bureau # 25-680264
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children # 2051678

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.

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TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST, Ore.—A special long-term partnership between the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) recreation staff and local law enforcement agencies helps to improve the safety, education and overall experience for people visiting Oregon’s state forests.

“Our number one priority is the safety of everyone who visits the forest,” said Tillamook County Sheriff’s Deputy Billy Cloud.  “The best way to improve safety is through education and every day we are talking with people helping them understand the rules and best practices to minimize risks and improve safety.”

The vast majority of people visiting the Tillamook State Forest will have an enjoyable time hiking, biking, camping or riding because of the work of ODF’s recreation staff.

“We work hard to build, maintain and improve our trials, campgrounds and other recreational areas to provide the safest, most enjoyable experiences possible,” said Joe Offer, ODF’s Recreation, Education and Interpretation Program Manager. “I believe we provide the best outdoor experience in Oregon for the most people—and all at a reasonable cost.”

The benefit of these efforts is evidenced by the relatively few problems that occur in Tillamook State Forest. The temperate rain forest is just 40 miles from Portland and draws large numbers of visitors throughout the year. Those visitors use off-highway vehicle (OHV), mountain bike, equestrian and hiking trails, as well as developed campgrounds and managed dispersed camping areas, to enjoy 364,000 acres of the state forest.

With that many visitors there are sometimes a few guests that cause problems.

“The most common incidents on the forest involve those under the influence of drugs or alcohol, but range from arguments over reservations, to parking issues or noise complaints,” said Offer.  “If our limited staff, which includes four full time, five seasonal, and 10 volunteer camp hosts, are not able to resolve and de-escalate a situation we contact the deputies. Our top priority is always the safety of our guests and staff.”

There are three Tillamook County deputies that work in the Tillamook State Forest thanks to a grant through Oregon State Parks. Those grant funds come from all-terrain vehicle (ATV) user permit sales and a percentage of gasoline tax money.  The county has applied for and received the grant for more than 25 years. Throughout the year, the deputies and ODF staff meet regularly to discuss and solve problems. One area always discussed is OHV safety.

“We spend a lot of time with the OHV folks,” said Cloud.  “There are three main things we look for and help people understand: helmet laws for those under 18, equipment requirements especially spark arrestors on OHVs, and current permits or safety cards.”

DOT-approved helmets are required for youth under age 18 for all ATVs.  ATVs on public lands must also have an adequate muffler to limit sound emissions to 99 dBA and spark arrestors to prevent wildfires.  Permits must be displayed on ATVs and operators need a current safety card.

“We do not want to write citations,” said Cloud.  “We do want compliance, so folks stay safe while they are out in the forest.  However, if someone is riding under the influence or commits another crime they will be arrested.”

ODF staff and deputies work together on other law enforcement issues including vandalism, illegal dumping, criminal activity, abandoned vehicles and non-recreational campers.

A safe and enjoyable visit is the top goal of ODF staff and the deputies but sometimes people do not realize the challenges they face when visiting the forest.

“My advice, and I can’t stress this enough, is use some common sense,” said Cloud.  “If you haven’t been hiking in a couple of years then don’t start off trying to hike a long 10-to-20 mile trail that you have never been on. And, no, just because you are tired doesn’t mean you can ask for a rescue helicopter to take you back to the parking lot.  True story, just this spring.”

The other common-sense issue some people fail to realize is their cell phones and other devices likely won’t have a connection in many areas of Oregon’s state forests.

“Most ODF staff vehicles have radios, and the deputies all have radios, so if you do need help be sure to contact one of us,” said Offer.

The good working relationship between Tillamook County Sherrif’s Office and the ODF staff is just one part of keeping state forests safe.

“All of our state forests combined cross the boundaries of 15 counties,” said Offer. “I want to personally thank all the law enforcement agencies and search and rescue teams we work with that help make Oregonians’ visits to their state forests as safe as possible.”

For more on state forest recreational opportunities see: Oregon Department of Forestry : Recreation, education & interpretation : Recreation, education & interpretation : State of Oregon

For more on riding ATVs on public land: Oregon Parks and Recreation : All-Terrain Vehicles In Oregon : Ride ATVs : State of Oregon

Washington County, Ore. 22 May 2025- On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 10:32 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 47, near milepost 22, in Washington County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Ford Econoline van, operated by Martin Santizo Santizo (22) of Gervais, crossed the centerline and sideswiped a southbound Dodge Ram 1500, operated by Francisco Javier Romero (27) of McMinnville. The collision caused the Dodge to roll and eject the operator.

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

The operator of the Ford (Santizo Santizo) and passenger, Pedro Lucas Alonso (20) of Gervias, were reportedly uninjured.

The highway was impacted for approximately 10 hours during the on-scene investigation. Operator impairment is considered a primary cause of the crash.

Santizo Santizo was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, Reckless Driving, and Criminally Negligent Homicide and lodged in the Washington County Jail.

OSP was assisted by Forest Grove Fire, Washington County Sheriff's Office, Forest Grove Police Department, and ODOT.

# # #

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

May 22, 2025

Dartmouth Crossing North Complete: 85 Affordable Homes Now Open in Tigard’s Growing Triangle District

REACH Community Development to Host Grand Opening Celebration on June 4

TIGARD, OR — REACH Community Development (REACH) has officially completed Dartmouth Crossing North, a new 85-unit affordable housing community in the heart of the Tigard Triangle. Located at SW Dartmouth & 68th Avenue, this development brings much-needed, energy-efficient family housing to one of the region’s most rapidly growing neighborhoods, just east of downtown Tigard and steps away from a future MAX light rail station.

The property is now open, with residents actively moving in and apartment leasing ongoing. REACH will host a Community Welcome & Grand Opening Celebration on Wednesday, June 4, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, featuring remarks from public officials, cultural entertainment, refreshments, and self-guided tours.

“Dartmouth Crossing North provides exactly what our region needs right now: more affordable housing with transit access and ample space for families to thrive,” said U.S. Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06). “I commend REACH for its continued leadership in building housing that centers both community and sustainability, and I will continue working in Congress to secure investments just like this one.”

The community, managed by REACH, includes a mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments.  Sixteen homes are reserved for households earning 50% of the area median income (AMI) with the remainder available to those earning up to 60% AMI.

Designed by Bora Architects and constructed by Colas Construction, Dartmouth Crossing North reflects deep community engagement and thoughtful community-driven design. Key amenities include a large community room, library nook, indoor gathering spaces, an outdoor courtyard with play areas, and a public plaza designed for festivals and neighborhood events. On-site resident services will be led by AYCO (African Youth & Community Organization), providing culturally specific support that promotes stability, connection, and well-being.

U.S. Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) has been supporting this development since REACH first acquired the site from a private developer. She helped secure federal funding to support planning for future public community space that would be open to the entire community.

“When I met with REACH leadership at the start of this process, they had a lot to show me - an empty lot,” said Rep. Suzanne Bonamici. “I was inspired by their vision of fostering community and pairing affordable housing with support for neighborhood resources. That lot in Tigard is now the site of Dartmouth Crossing North. Thank you to REACH for connecting communities to safe and stable affordable housing. I am grateful to have secured federal funding for this project and look forward to seeing the families who live here thrive.”

For new resident Malisa, the impact is personal. “Because it’s affordable, I can finally save money to invest and grow my business,” she shared. In her previous apartment, rent consumed her focus. Now, she feels energized by the natural light, design potential, and the welcoming environment for her and her daughter. “I feel the vibe again and more energy,” she said. Her daughter is “super excited” to have her own room, and Melissa is looking forward to community events and enjoying the courtyard. “It’s amazing inside. I love the library nook and the sense of peace in this place.”

Situated in a high-amenity area with access to jobs, schools, retail, and Portland Community College, Dartmouth Crossing North is designed to be more than just housing—it’s a foundation for long-term opportunity and connection.

“Dartmouth Crossing North reflects REACH’s commitment to developing housing that’s affordable, sustainable, and deeply rooted in community,” said Margaret Salazar, CEO of REACH. “We’re thrilled to welcome families home and expand our work in Tigard and Washington County.”

The building is Earth Advantage-certified, featuring a hybrid heat pump water heating system that eliminates natural gas use. The site includes both public and private plazas and a festival-friendly woonerf street, creating vibrant, inclusive spaces for neighbors to gather.

"The grand opening of Dartmouth Crossing North is yet another example of what we can all achieve when we work together," said Washington County Chair Kathryn Harrington. “This brand-new and much-needed affordable housing community would not have been possible without public-private collaboration, a partnership that is essential to providing stability and opportunities to our county's families."

“This development sets a new standard for affordable housing in Tigard,” said Tigard Mayor Heidi Lueb. “It brings families closer to opportunity—close to downtown, and the public spaces we need for a thriving neighborhood.”

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About REACH Community Development

REACH creates opportunities for all people to thrive by developing and promoting equitable access to quality, affordable homes, supportive services, and community. REACH envisions a socially just world where there is a universal right to housing with all people living in safe, vibrant, and healthy communities. Learn more at reachcdc.org. 

Over the past several months, LCPD Officers have conducted investigations involving Child Luring crimes. During these investigations, officers posed as underage children on various online social media platforms and were contacted by two separate adult men. These men then initiated sexually inappropriate conversations and sent sexually explicit photographs to these accounts, which they believed to be operated by juveniles in Lincoln County. The following arrests were made as a result of these investigations:

On May 14, 2025, Robert “Robbie” Powell, age 25 of Sheridan, was arrested after messaging multiple decoy accounts and initiating sexually inappropriate conversations. Powell was charged with Luring a Minor, and he was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail, where he remains.

On May 21, 2025, Ravi Joseph Grant Bemis, age 36, was arrested after messaging multiple decoy accounts, initiating sexually inappropriate conversations, and attempting to meet with a child for sex in Lincoln City. Bemis is from Lincoln City but currently resides in Sequim, WA. Bemis was charged with Luring a Minor x2 and Online Sexual Corruption of a Child 2^nd Degree. He is currently lodged at the Clallam County Jail in Washington while he awaits extradition to Oregon.

Investigators believe there may be more victims and urge anyone with relevant information to call the Lincoln City Police Department at (541) 994-3636 and request to leave a message for Officer Z. Lane.

The Lincoln City Police Department would like to express our thanks to the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office and the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office (WA) for their assistance in these investigations.

The Lincoln City Police wants to encourage parents to monitor their children's social media activity and discuss with them the possible dangers of communicating with strangers online. These investigations are conducted in a continuing effort to protect our children from predators who target children for sexual exploitation and to reduce crime and further enhance the safety of our community.

Submitted by:  Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn

It is a profound honor to reflect on Memorial Day, where memory and mission converge. This day is not one of celebration. It is a day of solemn remembrance — when our nation pauses to reflect on the profound cost of the freedoms and way of life we each hold so dear.

Behind every headstone and memorial etched with the names of our fallen service members are lives lived with deep purpose and conviction — and defined by courage and sacrifice: the young Marine who never returned home, the soldier who died to save his fellow troops, the sailor whose name is known only to God, the airman whose remains are still missing in action.

Behind each of them, a family lives with a permanent absence — a parent’s grief, a spouse’s broken heart, a sibling’s pride, a child’s aching questions.

As we honor the fallen, we must also speak of those whose fates remain unknown — those still missing in action. For their families, there has been no return, no final goodbye, no folded flag. Only a silence that spans generations — filled with questions, memories, and the hope that one day, answers may come.

More than 81,000 American service members remain unaccounted for from conflicts dating back to World War II. Among them are hundreds of Oregonians whose names are etched into monuments and hearts, even as time marches forward.

Commander William B. Ault of Enterprise, Oregon, led a daring assault during the Battle of the Coral Sea in May 1942. After striking enemy carriers, his final radio message was: "O.K. So long, people. We put a 1,000-pound hit on the flat top." He and his radioman were never seen again. For his heroism, he was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross, and the USS Ault and Ault Field bear his name.

Private First Class Dale Warren Ross of Ashland, Oregon, went missing during combat on Guadalcanal in 1943. Seventy-six years later, his remains were discovered and identified, finally bringing closure to his family.

Staff Sergeant George Edward Davies of Portland, Oregon, was shot down over Romania in 1943. His remains were identified and laid to rest with full military honors in June 2024 — over 80 years later.

Each identification made, each name returned to a loved one, is a sacred act. It reminds us that the cost of war extends far beyond the battlefield, affecting families and communities for generations.

This year marks a profound milestone: the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II — a war that demanded extraordinary sacrifice from more than 152,000 Oregonians. Tyranny was defeated, but freedom came at a heavy cost. The generation that answered that call helped liberate the world and laid the foundation for a more just and inclusive America — one we are still striving to fully realize.

This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, created in 1945 to serve returning WWII veterans. Born out of war, ODVA was founded on the principle that “equity, justice and a simple duty” should be recognized for those who "brought us victory and peace." That mission continues today.

Let us remember Oregon’s deep and personal sacrifices:

• One Oregonian died in the Civil War.
• Sixty-five were lost in the Spanish-American War.
• 1,030 in World War I.
• 3,757 in World War II.
• 269 in the Korean War.
• 709 in Vietnam.
• One during the USS Pueblo incident.
• One in Panama.
• Seven in the Persian Gulf.
• 142 in the post-9/11 conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Each number is a name. Each name, a story. Each story, a reminder of the sacrifice made not only in distant places, but right here — from Oregon’s fields, towns, and Tribal communities.

We must also acknowledge a harder truth: some of those we remember today gave their lives for the hope of freedom and equality they were never fully granted in life. Black Americans served in segregated units. Native Americans and Asian Americans defended a country that treated them as outsiders. Women gave their lives in uniform long before they were fully recognized in it. LGBTQ+ service members served under policies that denied their identity. Latino service members endured discrimination even while wearing our nation’s cloth.

They died for a constitution whose promises were not fully extended to them. Let that truth not divide us, but deepen our reverence. Their sacrifice was not diminished by injustice. In fact, it is all the more sacred. Because they believed — as we all do — in a nation that is great, and that can yet be greater still. They died not just for the America that was, but for the America we still strive to become.

Today, more than 260,000 veterans call Oregon home. They are our neighbors, our leaders, our protectors. At ODVA, we carry forward the solemn responsibility to care not just for the fallen, but for the living. To ensure no sacrifice is forgotten. To uphold the promises made — in law, in policy, and in principle — to those who wore the uniform of our nation.

Memorial Day traces its roots to the Civil War, when families decorated graves — North and South — bound by grief and shared humanity. More than 150 years later, we still honor that call.

And we do so not just with flowers and flags, but with purpose. We honor our war dead when we invest in mental health and suicide prevention, when we build housing for unhoused veterans, when we lift up the voices of veterans of every race, gender, background, and orientation.

We honor them when we teach our children not only the history of war, but the cost of peace.

At 3 p.m. on Memorial Day, wherever you are, I invite you to join in the National Moment of Remembrance — one minute of silence for those who gave everything so that we may live freely.

In that moment, let your heart be full — not only of sorrow, but of resolve. Because we are the stewards of their legacy. And it is our duty to remember, not just with words, but with action.

May their memory guide us. May their courage strengthen us. And may their sacrifice — whether known or unknown, celebrated or too long overlooked — be honored in all we do.

Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels is a proud United States Army veteran and the director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, overseeing agency operations and ensuring the availability of and access to vital veteran services and programs for more than 260,000 veterans and their families across the state.

When in doubt, stay out: Increasing temperatures create potential for toxins in water 

Vancouver, Wash. – The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) recently awarded the Clark County Auditor’s Office with the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year that ended Dec. 31, 2023. The GFOA also announced that the Auditor’s Office received the Award for Outstanding Achievement for its Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR).

Certificate of Achievement
This is the 39th consecutive year that the ACFR has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence. The report has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report.

The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition for governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

PAFR
The PAFR award represents a significant achievement by the county. To be eligible for the PAFR award, a government must also submit its annual comprehensive financial report to GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Program and receive the certificate for the current fiscal year. Each eligible report is reviewed by judges who evaluate the report based on the following categories: reader appeal, understandability, distribution methods, creativity and other elements.

The Clark County Auditor’s Office produced its first PAFR in 2020, and this is the fourth consecutive year the county has received this recognition. The PAFR is a user friendly, highly visual report that summarizes information from the county’s more well known Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.

“Financial reporting is another tool to provide transparency and accountability to the public regarding their county government. Our hope is that residents will have confidence that information regarding taxpayer dollars is accurate and easily accessible,” said Clark County Auditor Greg Kimsey.

Both reports are available on the Auditor’s website.

The GFOA advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources and practical research for more than 21,000 members and the communities they serve. Learn more about GFOA at  https://www.gfoa.org/.

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works is converting the existing stop-sign-controlled intersection at Northeast Ward and Davis roads to a single-lane roundabout. This intersection was the site of 44 crashes between 2015 and 2025. Twelve crashes resulted in injuries. Most of the crashes involved left turns, collisions with fixed objects, or were rear-end collisions. Roundabouts reduce the incidence of these types of collisions. This project will improve traffic safety and accommodate the area’s increasing traffic.

Construction is currently scheduled to begin in 2026.

Residents can learn more about the project at an open house from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 5. Staff will share a presentation about the project from 6:30 to 7 p.m. with a Q&A (question-and-answer) session immediately following.
 

Residents can attend in person at Prairie High School, 11311 NE 119th St. in Vancouver. Attendees can view project information and meet with staff before and after the presentation. Refreshments will be provided.

The presentation and Q&A session will also be streamed live online via Webex. Online attendees can ask questions during the Q&A using the chat feature. Residents can register to receive an email link to join the meeting. A meeting link will be posted to the webpage before the presentation. Registration and online meeting information can be found on the project webpage.
 

Presentation slides, visual aids and a recording of the presentation and Q&A session will be posted on the webpage within five business days. Materials are available in Spanish, Russian and Ukrainian, and additional languages on request. Interpretation, translation or accommodations to participate in the information session can be requested by contacting the project manager.

More information about the project can be found on the project webpage at clark.wa.gov/public-works/northeast-ward-road-and-northeast-davis-road.

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

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

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

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

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

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Vancouver, Wash. – On Monday, April 21, Vancouver City Council adopted the City’s first-ever, Five-Year Economic Development Strategy. In alignment with the City’s core values of sustainability and resiliency, and livability, the inclusive strategy is designed to help support economic growth and address growing disparities within the community, and is organized around four primary goals:

• Establish pathways to accessible quality jobs.
• Create opportunities for intergenerational wealth.
• Position Vancouver as an inclusive center of innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Invest in neighborhood commercial districts.

“It’s important to establish clear priorities for our economic development efforts so we can maintain a competitive local economy in the face of current market challenges,” said Vancouver’s Economic Prosperity and Housing Director Patrick Quinton. “This strategy will guide our efforts over the next five years as we work towards creating a more prosperous, innovative and inclusive city.”

A consistent theme across the Strategy’s four goals is wealth creation, whether through access to higher-paying jobs, more successful small businesses or new innovative industries and ventures.

The strategy will also be aligned with the region's economic development roadmap led by the Columbia River Economic Development Council  and Workforce Southwest Washington's 2025-2029 Strategic Plan. This ensures that Vancouver's actions are complementary to existing initiatives and leverage available tools and resources for maximum impact.

Development of the strategy involved both data analysis and broad community engagement. Regular updates on progress will be provided to both the community and elected officials.

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What: The Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) South Cascade District is inviting media to their aerial firefighting training, which will include the use of Weyerhaeuser aerial resources.

Background: On May 29, the ODF South Cascade District will be conducting an introduction to aerial firefighting for ground firefighters with a training component in the field. This training gives our boots on the ground the opportunity to meet the pilots, become familiar with working with aircraft, see what the capabilities are, and get practical experience in air-to-ground communications. The biggest benefit of this training is getting ground trainees a chance to work one-on-one with aircraft outside of an actual fire. In addition to meeting the pilots and training with live aircraft outside of a fire, firefighters will have a chance for feedback and questions from pilots during an after-action review (AAR).

Details and Visuals: Media will meet the PIOs at the ODF Springfield Unit office at 9 a.m. At 9:30 a.m., we will depart the office and caravan out to training location on Weyerhaeuser’s property. There is not an exact address for where the training will be held, so please be on time to not miss the caravan.

Visuals will include ground operations and aerial operations. At this time, there are two Type 3 helicopters from Weyerhaeuser confirmed for the training and there will be approximately 20 ground trainees. The aircraft will practice bucket drops with the ground firefighters practicing communication with the pilots. At the end of the training, pilots will participate in an AAR with ground firefighters.

There will be several opportunities for interviews throughout the day with trainees and instructors.

When: Thursday, May 29, 2025

Starting Location: ODF Springfield Unit Office, 3150 Main St, Springfield, OR 97478

Secondary Location: Weyerhaeuser

Time: 9:00-9:30 a.m. at ODF Springfield Unit Office
           10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on Weyerhaeuser property

PPE: Media will need a hard hat and high visibility shirt. If you do not have these, let us know at time of RSVP so we may supply it.

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

SAFETY TIPS FOR RUNNERS  
 

The Newport Marathon is just around the corner, so we can expect to see local and guest runners hitting the road on June 1st. Motorists should use extra caution, not only during special events like this, but throughout the year. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting to run, there are some things you should consider to keep yourself safe while running. The time of day and weather impact not only how you feel on your run but can also be more dangerous depending on the situation. Before heading out on your next run, consider these tips.

Before the Run

• Run with another person or a group.
• Let someone know when and where you are running and when you will return.
• Carry ID and a cell phone. Consider adding a small card with an emergency contact and any allergies or known medical conditions.
• Take a whistle with you.
• Dress for the weather and running conditions. Wear layers and sturdy shoes.
• Wear reflective clothing or gear regardless of the time of day.
• Use caution if you wear headphones or anything that distracts you. Be aware of cars, animals you may encounter, and other hazards on your route.
• Vary the route and the time of day that you run.
• If you run at night, remember to wear a headlamp and a flashing red light on your back. Consider additional reflective gear.
• Remember to stretch! Stretching before running and regular flexibility and strength training help prevent injuries.

During the Run

• Run against traffic so that you can observe the approach of automobiles.
• When possible, run on sidewalks or designated trails/pedestrian paths.
• Remember to hydrate. Runner’s belts and vests make it easier to carry water and snacks.
• Keep an eye on the temperature and how your body feels. If you start to overheat, feel dizzy, or otherwise unwell, take a break in the shade and drink water.
• Stay alert. When in doubt, follow your intuition. If something seems suspicious, do not panic, but run in a different direction.
• Do not approach a car to give directions. If you feel you must respond, do it while moving.
• Run in familiar areas. Note the location of neighbors or open businesses along the route.
• When in doubt call for help. For an emergency, call 911. Our non-emergency dispatch can be reached at 541-265-0777, or call a friend and keep them on the phone until you feel safe again.

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

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On May 21, 2025 at approximately 2124 hours Deputies from the Clark County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to an unknown injury collision near NW 78th Rd on NW 78th St. The collision involved two motor vehicles and a person driving an electric scooter.  The driver of the scooter was struck by both motor vehicles and died at the scene.  Both motor vehicles drivers stayed on scene and are cooperating with the investigation.  As of this time the decedent has not been identified. The Clark County Sheriff's Office Traffic Unit is investigating. 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet starting at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, June 4, and Thursday, June 5. The meetings will be held in the Tillamook Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. The meetings are open to the public and will also be livestreamed on the department’s YouTube channel.

The board’s business agenda for June 4 includes:

• Legislative session update
• Review of suggested edits to state forester recruitment materials
• Approval of designated individual to support state forester recruitment
• Wildfire outlook and response readiness
• Central Oregon and Northeast Oregon District boundary change
• Approval of forest protection association budgets
• Board of Forestry Governance Committee update
• Forestland conversion presentation

The agenda for June 5 includes:

• State forests modeled outcomes discussion with the Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee (FTLAC)

The full agenda is available on the board’s webpage. Live testimony is available on both days. Signing up for live testimony is required, and instructions are available online. Written testimony will also be accepted. Written comments can be submitted before or up to two weeks after the meeting day by mail to the Board Support Office, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310 or email to oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. Please include the appropriate agenda item and topic with the submission.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office 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 Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include appointing the State Forester, setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30-million-acre forestland base. Read more information about the board.

PF&R Hosts Annual Ceremony of Honor

Portland Fire & Rescue hosted its annual Ceremony of Honor tonight at the Airport Sheraton, in which members of PF&R, along with members of PBOT, PPB, PP&R and the general public, were recognized for going above and beyond the call of duty during emergency incidents over the past year.

Along with recognizing individuals for their efforts on emergency incidents, members of PF&R were recognized in 4 different categories with the annual “Of the Year” awards. Firefighter of the Year was awarded to FF Travis Chipman; the Thomas Gavin Safe Driver of the Year was awarded to FF Tim Spring; Medical Provider of the Year was awarded to FFE Micah Fullerton; and Non-Sworn PF&R Member of the Year was awarded to Jake Sigler.

Attached are photos of these sworn members, along with a link to the program which allows you to view all the awards that were presented. The link to the program and certificates associated with all the award language can be found here - 2025 Ceremony of Honor Awards | Portland.gov. (www.portland.gov/fire/2025-coh-awards)

A few examples of these awards: Members of the Parks and Police Bureaus were recognized for their efforts on emergency scenes; A member of PBOT was recognized for ensuring a house that was on fire was safely evacuated prior our arrival; Members of the public were recognized for taking great risks to ensure lives were saved at several emergency incidents; and an off-duty PF&R member was recognized for his life-saving efforts at a fire while “off the clock.”

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PORTLAND, Ore.— A suspected drug trafficker faces federal charges after he was caught transporting more than 60 pounds of powdered fentanyl on Interstate 5 near Albany, Oregon.

Jose Ivan Iribe Camorlinga, 46, a Mexican national unlawfully residing in Oakland, California, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute.

According to court documents, on May 20, 2025, Oregon State Police conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Iribe Camorlinga and registered to him in California. A trooper searched the vehicle and found two large bags containing 25 vacuum-sealed packages of fentanyl in the trunk. In total, law enforcement seized more than 60 pounds of fentanyl powder. Iribe Camorlinga was arrested and transferred into the custody of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

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

The case is being investigated by the DEA and is being prosecuted by Paul T. Maloney, Assistant U.S. Attorney 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.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 3-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

The Oregon State Police-Domestic Highway Enforcement (OSP-DHE) Initiative is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). 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.

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The Portland Police Bureau is now sending news releases via a new platform and will look different in user e-mail boxes. Existing subscriber e-mail addresses to FlashAlert were automatically migrated over and should receive e-mails with a new format, but anyone who wants to sign up can do so.

To sign up to have PPB news releases sent to your e-mail, click here.

The only change in PPB communications channels is that we will no longer be sending news releases via FlashAlert. News releases will still be available on our website, our channel on X, and Portland Police on Threads.

Additional information about Portland Police is available by following us on our social media channels:

Facebook: portlandpolice

Instagram: portlandpolice

Bluesky: PPB on Bluesky

LinkedIn: PPB on LinkedIn

YouTube: Police Videos

On our website, users can search for content via keyword, and can filter by type (blog post, news article, newsletter, or public notice). You can also subscribe to the Talking Beat Podcast. Finally, users can remove themselves from the e-mail list at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in any of our e-mails.

Find out more about the Strategic Communications Unit here.

###PPB###

NEWBERG, OR – May 19, 2025 – U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici and Oregon State Representative Andrea Salinas will visit the Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center's newly renovated and expanded Newberg Wellness Center this Friday, May 23rd, to engage in a crucial discussion about the potential impacts of Medicaid cuts on the community and to learn more about the center's vital services.

The visit will provide an opportunity for the representatives to meet with Virginia Garcia leadership and staff to understand firsthand how proposed Medicaid reductions could affect access to care for vulnerable populations in Washington and Yamhill counties. A key focus will be on the center's commitment to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and culturally appropriate primary health care, particularly for migrant and seasonal farmworkers and others with barriers to receiving care.

"We are honored to welcome Representatives Bonamici and Salinas to our Newberg Wellness Center," said Gil Muñoz, CEO of Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center. "Their presence underscores the importance of safeguarding Medicaid and ensuring that our community continues to have access to the healthcare they deserve. We look forward to a productive dialogue on how we can work together to protect these essential services."

In addition to the Medicaid discussion, the representatives will tour the newly renovated facility, which features expanded exam rooms, a dedicated wellness area with exercise space and a teaching kitchen, upgraded dental operatories, an integrated team-based healthcare workspace, and a new teaching lab for future medical professionals.

This expansion, made possible through the generous donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations, as well as government grants, significantly enhances Virginia Garcia's ability to serve the growing needs of the Newberg community.

Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center will commemorate the grand opening of its expanded Newberg Wellness Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 19th. Invited guests will include political representatives, major supporters, and media partners, who will join in celebrating this significant milestone in enhancing community health.

About Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center:

The Mission of the Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center is to provide high quality, comprehensive, and culturally appropriate primary health care to the communities of Washington and Yamhill counties with a special emphasis on migrant and seasonal farmworkers and others with barriers to receiving ​health care.​ Founded in 1975, Virginia Garcia offers a comprehensive range of medical, dental, vision, behavioral health, and community health services.

Acknowledgement: This Newberg Wellness Center Project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $2 million with 92 percentage financed with non-governmental sources. The contents are those of Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. 

Image: https://virginiagarcia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/DJI_20240127205514_0096_D-768x432.jpg

On the evening of Sunday, May 18, 2025, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the Siletz Gas and Mini Mart, located at 315 S. Gaither Street in Siletz, Oregon, following a report of an armed robbery that had just occurred. The victim reported that a male suspect brandished a weapon and stole cash from the business before fleeing on foot.

The next day, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Detectives, with assistance from several Patrol Deputies, continued the investigation and were able to identify the suspect as 42-year-old Marcus D. McCall of Siletz.

On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at approximately 4:15 PM, McCall was taken into custody outside Noel’s Market in Siletz. He was transported to the Lincoln County Jail, where he was booked on charges including Robbery in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Theft in the First Degree, Menacing, and Pointing a Firearm at Another.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to express gratitude to the Newport Police Department, Oregon State Police, and Toledo Police Department for their assistance in this incident. Additionally, we would like to thank the community of Siletz for their support during the investigation.

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 05/22/2025

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS May 22, 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/86346138790
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 301 715 8592

Linn County, Ore 21 May 2025- Oregon State Police K-9 team locates large quantity of fentanyl during traffic stop on Interstate 5.

On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, around 2 p.m., Oregon State Police stopped a white Chevrolet Impala for an unlawful lane change. During the traffic stop, the trooper recognized signs of drug activity and obtained permission to search the vehicle. Approximately 60 pounds of powdered fentanyl were discovered in the trunk of the vehicle.

The operator of the vehicle, Jose I Iribe (46) of Oakland (CA) was arrested for unlawful possession of fentanyl and transferred to DEA custody for further investigation.

The investigation is on-going and no additional information is available for release at this time.

# # #

OSP Domestic Highway Enforcement Initiative
The Oregon State Police-Domestic Highway Enforcement (OSP-DHE) Initiative is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).

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 OSP-DHE Initiative.

On Tuesday, May 20th, 2025, the Newport Police Department, with the assistance of the Lincoln City Police Department, served a search warrant at a trailer located in the Harbor Village Trailer Park in Newport. The warrant was the result of a long-term investigation into the downloading and sharing of Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM), more commonly referred to as child pornography. Arrested at the scene was Kurtis Fegulia, 36, of Newport.

Newport Police began the investigation after receiving a Cybertip from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program, which was developed in 1998 and is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces, representing over 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Since its inception, ICAC has trained over 675,000 law enforcement officers in the detection of crimes against children, has reviewed over 844,000 complaints, and has assisted in over 89,000 arrests of persons responsible for crimes against children.

With the assistance of ICAC, Newport Police were able to determine that Fegulia had downloaded or shared over 700 minutes (11+ hours) of video content, and over 800 separate files, depicting content of child sex abuse material (CSAM). Some of the victims in the content were as young as under 1 year of age.

Officers seized electronic equipment at the scene associated with the crimes.

Kurtis Fegulia, 36, was taken into custody and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on the following charges:

• Encouraging Child Sex Abuse 1 x 10
• Encouraging Child Sex Abuse 2 x 10

This investigation is ongoing. If you have any information regarding this investigation, contact Detective Cicerone of the Newport Police Department at 541-574-3348. The Newport Police Tip Line is available at 541-574-5455, or Text-a-Tip at 541-270-1856 or tipline@newportpolice.net.

Information Released By: Lt. Tyson Haynes, 541-574-3348

Clatsop County, OR — This year’s Community Baby Shower, a free and festive event celebrating new and expectant families will be held Friday, May 30, 2025, from 3–6 p.m. at Sunset Empire Park and Recreation, located at 1120 Broadway St. in Seaside. It is hosted by Clatsop County Public Health in partnership with Build Your Nest Postpartum Navigator Pilot Projects, the Perinatal Task Force, and the Community Health Advocacy and Resource Team (CHART).

The event is designed to honor and celebrate families during this transformative time in their lives, while also connecting them to community resources that support lifelong wellness.

Attendees can look forward to:

• A free, nutritious dinner
• A fun-filled Kid Zone
• Car seat safety checks (available to all attendees)
• Infant feeding support
• Baby supplies
• Special gifts for each family
• Meeting doulas and postpartum navigators
• Connecting with other families

“This event is about more than just celebrating new life—it’s about making sure families feel supported, seen, and connected,” said Lisa Schuyler, Clatsop County Public Health Promotions Supervisor. “We want every parent and caregiver to know that they’re not alone. There’s a whole network of care here for them.”

If you are pregnant or have a baby under a year, register here:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeBJtwsc-EliSNvai4YN0Cz2zfWEzm5Qu5jKX6T-Im0hmlofQ/viewform

For more about  family support services in Clatsop County, visit: www.buildyournestworkbook.com/astoria-resources

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Vancouver, Wash. — The City of Vancouver invites community members to the first open house to learn about proposed improvements to 192nd Avenue between Northeast 18th Street and Southeast 1st Street, one of east Vancouver’s busiest and most important corridors. The event will be held at Union High School, 6201 N.W. Friberg-Strunk St., from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18.

The City is in the early design phase for the 192nd Avenue Improvement Project, which will modernize this one-mile corridor to meet current standards and prepare for the expected future growth in the area. Construction is planned to begin as early as 2028 once funding is secured.

The corridor is home to businesses, neighborhoods and recreational destinations. Today, an average of 14,000 vehicles travel this road daily—a number expected to grow to 22,000 by 2045. With major destinations like the Humane Society for Southwest Washington, Harmony Sports Complex, Costco and four schools, 192nd Avenue plays a vital role in east Vancouver. However, with missing sidewalks, limited bike and pedestrian access, and increasing traffic, the current roadway design no longer meets the needs of the community.

“192nd Avenue is a vital connection for thousands of people each day—whether they’re heading to school, work, shopping or recreation,” said Ivar Christensen, project manager for the City of Vancouver. “We’re excited to work with the community to create a safer, more comfortable corridor for everyone.”

Attendees at the open house will:

• Learn about the City’s goals for improving safety, mobility and access along 192nd Avenue
• See early design ideas and suggested intersection improvements to improve pedestrian travel and reduce traffic congestion
• Understand how the project fits into the City’s 20-year Transportation System Plan
• Share feedback that will help shape the final design

The City is committed to involving the public at every stage of the project. Feedback collected at the open house will inform design decisions, helping ensure the final improvements reflect local needs and priorities. The project team will continue working with the community on the project's design through 2026.

This event is free and open to all. To learn more and sign up for updates, visit: beheardvancouver.org/192nd.

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Runners and walkers will enjoy a unique vantage point while traversing the historic Lewis & Clark Bridge across the Columbia River 

LONGVIEW, Wash. – The 3^rd annual Rainier2Longview 10K Bridge Run is scheduled for June 1, traversing Rainier, Oregon, to Longview, Washington. In partnership with the City of Longview Parks & Recreation Department, PeaceHealth is proud to again serve as the presenting sponsor of this unique race that spans two cities. 

The race starts at 8 a.m. from Rainier City Park in Rainier, Oregon and finishes at Martin’s Dock in Lake Sacajawea Park in Longview. Registration remains open through May 28, 2025. Children 10 and under are free. Find race and registration details here. https://www.r2lbridgerun.com/ 

“We are pleased to again partner with the City of Longview Parks & Recreation and serve as the presenting sponsor of this race,” says Kendall Sawa, Chief Hospital Executive for PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center. “We are committed to improving the health and wellness of our community, and this event provides a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together in support of that commitment.” 

“We simply couldn’t host events like the Rainier2Longview 10K without incredible partners like PeaceHealth,” states Longview City Manager Jennifer Wills. “Their support makes it possible for us to create meaningful, energizing experiences that bring our community together. By aligning our missions for a healthier, more active community, we’re not just organizing a race, we’re building a better place to live, work, and play.”

PeaceHealth will have a booth at Sacajawea Park near the finish line. All are encouraged to stop by. A finisher banner is available for all runners and walkers to sign.

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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, more than 3,000 providers, 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. 

UPDATE 5/21: Please join us for this event at the Cedaroak Boat Ramp 4600 Elmran Dr, West Linn, OR 97068

As the region gears up for another busy summer on local rivers and waterways, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue (TVF&R) is inviting media representatives to a water rescue demonstration on Thursday, May 22, 2025. The event will spotlight TVF&R’s Water Rescue Team, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the life-saving operations that keep our waterways safe.

With warmer weather driving more people to swim, paddle, and float, water safety becomes a top concern. TVF&R’s demonstration will feature real-time watercraft deployment, rescue simulations, and interviews with rescue technicians, giving media a firsthand view of the challenges rescue teams face.

TVF&R’s Water Rescue Team is made up of two highly trained, 4-person firefighter crews. Each team member is cross-trained in advanced rescue techniques and water-specific hazards such as swift currents, shifting depths, and underwater obstacles. The teams are based at Station 59 (West Linn) and Station 20 (Newberg)—both positioned for rapid response on the Willamette River.

As part of the Clackamas County Water Rescue Consortium, TVF&R works collaboratively to respond to water-related emergencies across the region. The multi-agency team covers about 50 miles along the Willamette River from Salem to the lower Willamette toward Portland, including all of Clackamas County and roughly 50 miles of the Clackamas River. Additional waterways include large areas of Washington County, including 38 miles of the Tualatin River, a portion of Yamhill County, Molalla River, and the Pudding River.

According to data from Oregon Bureau of Vital Statistics and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, drowning is the second leading cause of death for Oregon children aged 0 to 4 and the fourth for those aged 5 to 18. With summer fast approaching, TVF&R is using this event to emphasize the importance of water safety, life jacket use, and safe recreation practices around rivers, lakes, and pools.

Date: Thursday, May 22, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Location: Cedaroak Boat Ramp - 4600 Elmran Dr, West Linn, OR 97068
Media Check-in: Begins at 9:30 AM (Life jackets provided)

Please RSVP to pio@tvfr.com.

Traffic safety is important to all of us. Dedicated education, responsible and aware drivers, and traffic enforcement are a big part of roadway safety. Pedestrian safety on and near roadways requires extra attention.

The Newport Police Department is conducting a pedestrian enforcement detail on May 29^th, 2025 from 1pm to 4 pm at the marked crosswalk located at the intersection of Highway 101 and SW Angle street.

The public is reminded to use this time and everyday to see pedestrians and slow down. All intersections in Oregon, whether marked or not, are pedestrian crosswalks.

Information Released By: Sgt Leake, 541-574-3348

SALEM, Ore. — The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee meets Friday, May 23 at 10 a.m. at ODF headquarters in Salem, with a virtual option.

The public meeting will be held in the Tillamook Room at the Oregon Department of Forestry’s headquarters, 2600 State St., Salem. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

Agenda items will include:

• Update on ODF engagement process for neighboring landowners
• Review of proposed forest modeling outcomes for Draft Forest Management Plan

Public comment is scheduled at the beginning of the meeting. To submit written comment, email ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov. Written comments sent at least 48 hours before the meeting will give the FTLAC time to review and consider information. Comments submitted after that window of time will be sent to the FTLAC after the meeting, entered into the record and posted online. Comments are not accepted after the meeting concludes.

The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee is comprised of seven county commissioners representing 15 Oregon counties where state forestlands are located. The FTLAC is a statutorily established committee that advises the Board of Forestry on matters related to forestland managed by ODF. View more information on the FTLAC webpage.

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.

Gilliam County, Ore. 21 May 2025- On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 3 :45 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Interstate 84, near milepost 148, in Gilliam County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Adam Hassan Ahmed Haroun (47) of Twin Falls (ID), left the roadway and struck a bridge pillar before catching fire. 

The operator of the Freightliner (Haroun) was declared deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately 11 hours during the on-scene investigation. 

OSP was assisted by the North Gilliam County Fire Department and ODOT.

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

Josephine County, Ore. 21 May 2025- On Monday, May 19, 2025, at 10:48 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 199, at the intersection with Waldamar Road, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Toyota Corolla, operated by Hunter Lee Bryant (24) of Cave Junction, was eastbound on Waldamar Road when it failed to obey the stop sign and entered Highway 199. A southbound GMC Yukon, operated by Scott Adam Seaman (59) of Selma, struck the driver side door of the Toyota.

The operator of the Toyota (Bryant) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the GMC (Seaman) suffered minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Josephine County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

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

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Bruce Wayne Shelton, died the morning of May 21, 2025. Shelton was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away at the facility while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Shelton entered DOC custody on December 23, 2003, from Multnomah and Yamhill counties with an earliest release date of January 18, 2026. Shelton was 83 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem that houses approximately 2,000 adults in custody. OSP is surrounded by a 25-foot-high wall with 10 towers. The facility has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, behavioral health, intermediate care housing, and an infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care. OSP participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including the furniture factory, laundry, metal shop, and contact center. It provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, work-based education, work crews, and pre-release services. OSP was established in 1866 and, until 1959, was Oregon’s only prison.

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Oregon Wildlife Foundation provides updates for three projects

(PORTLAND, Ore.) – Roads fragment and reduce the quality of habitat, and cause collisions with wildlife. According to Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) carcass collection data, approximately 5,000 large-bodied animals, including elk, deer, bear, and antelope, are killed annually in wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs). The actual number of wildlife killed by roads in Oregon is likely much higher, as, according to researchers, an equal or higher number of animals die outside the highway right-of-way every year but are not included in ‘conventionally collected road survey carcass data.’

Smaller species like birds of prey, frogs, coyotes, and turtles are also unaccounted for, so the total impact of roads on wildlife is not fully understood. WVCs are dangerous for people, too. On average, in Oregon, 1-2 motorists will lose their lives due to collisions or near misses with wildlife. Finally, damage to private and public property resulting from WVCs and accident avoidance numbers in the tens of millions of dollars annually.

One of Oregon Wildlife Foundation’s conservation priorities is to improve habitat connectivity for wildlife. We’re working with ODOT, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and community-based partners throughout Oregon on wildlife passage projects, habitat connectivity, and the protection of wildlife migration corridors. Interested members of the public can support our efforts by donating to our Watch for Wildlife fund.

The following is a sample of the projects that Oregon Wildlife Foundation supports. For a complete list and more information, visit www.myowf.org/wildlifemoves.

I-84 NE Oregon Wildlife Crossing Project

Interstate 84, in NE Oregon, is an almost complete barrier to wildlife movement. The goal of the NE Oregon Wildlife Crossing Coalition is to increase wildlife access to habitat across the interstate. A wildlife crossing mitigation study to identify and prioritize crossing locations along two segments of I-84 between Pendleton and La Grande will be followed by the development of designs for new structures, including overcrossing and undercrossings and retrofits of existing bridges and culverts to accommodate wildlife use.

Improving wildlife access to habitat across I-84 will increase genetic diversity and resilience to climate change impacts, including degraded habitat due to drought and more frequent wildfire events. With the Oregon Wildlife Foundation as their fiscal sponsor, the Coalition has begun fundraising for this study of I-84. Donate via the Watch for Wildlife fund.

Harborton Frog Crossing Project (Hwy 30 near Linnton)

Oregon Wildlife Foundation is the sponsor of the Harborton Frog Crossing Project, an initiative along highway 30 in Linnton to provide a local population of Northern red-legged frogs with safe access to the wetland they need to produce.

Volunteers with the Harborton Frog Shuttle are working to conserve this subpopulation of red-legged frogs; gathering them in buckets, driving them across busy Highway 30, and releasing them near Harborton wetland. They repeat this process when the frogs have laid their eggs and have begun returning to their forest home. The extraordinary efforts of Shuttle volunteers are helping conserve red-legged frogs, but a sustainable habitat connectivity solution is needed.

The Coalition commissioned a wildlife crossing analysis and conceptual design for a dedicated passage structure to be that long-term solution. The phase I report for the Harborton Frog Crossing Project was published in November 2024. Fundraising for Phase II, full design and engineering, is now underway.

Northern red-legged frogs are not classified as an endangered species and aren’t a threat to motorist safety. As a result, our project doesn’t qualify for most sources of wildlife crossing funding. To make this project a reality, we need your help. Every dollar counts! Visit www.myOWF.org/frogs to donate.

Humboldt Marten Crossing Hwy 101

Humboldt or coastal marten are a subspecies of American marten and make their home along the coast of southern Oregon and northern California. With an estimated total Oregon population of only 71 individuals, the loss of even a single individual is significant. Currently, one of the largest contributors to mortality among Humboldt marten are vehicle strikes on Highway 101 and along the TransPacific Parkway near North Bend.

The goal of this project is to reduce vehicle-related mortality of Humboldt marten and other wildlife along Highway 101 by retrofitting existing highway infrastructure, like culverts and bridges, or building new structures in areas where marten presence is documented. This project is being managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service with a coalition of federal and state agencies, and community-based organizations providing technical and other assistance to the effort.

With funding support from our Watch for Wildlife Fund and other sources, a consulting team is conducting a wildlife crossing mitigation analysis to determine the best locations and design alternatives for crossings within the target highway corridor. Donate via our Watch for Wildlife fund.

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Oregon Wildlife Foundation

Oregon Wildlife Foundation is an operating charitable foundation dedicated to increasing private and public funding support for wildlife conservation projects in Oregon. Since its founding in 1981, the Foundation has directed tens of millions of dollars in private and public support to a broad range of projects throughout Oregon. For more information visit www.myowf.org.

As the old saying goes, “If you don’t like the weather in Oregon, just wait a minute
and it will change.” In late March, the weather changed in the mountains just
north of Burns Oregon, the snowpack started melting, fast! Burns is a small
community of 2,700 in the high desert of Harney County. On March 30th the
Burns levee on the Silivies River failed and the community of Burns was flooded
by the swollen Silvies River affecting hundreds of homes on the north and east
side. The flooding was so large, it could be seen from national Weather Service
satellites in space.
The community response was immediate, and help came from far and wide. And
the residents of Burns rallied and helped themselves. The Burns Lions Club,
through their member, District Governor Lion Pete Runnels, applied for an
emergency grant from Lions Clubs International Foundation. The clock started at
5pm on Monday with the submission of the grant. By 3pm on Tuesday the
$15,000 grant was approved and by Thursday, the money was in the bank in only
94 hours.
That was great, but not enough for the Burns Lions promptly added $5,000 of
their own charitable project fund. The Crooked River Ranch Lions heard about the
disaster and sent $1,000. With some quick personal donations, including Parr
Lumber staff and Lion Pete, the total dollars to help Burns residents came to just
under $22,000.
Lion Pete Runnels connected with the Parr Lumber store in Burns and was met by
manager, Jon Case, who was busy trying to get as much sheetrock, subfloor and
insulation as could be trucked to Burns in short order. Jon and Burns Parr Lumber
were already planning to let affected Burns residents have product at near cost.
After some brief number crunching the sum of $350 per flood victim was settled
on.
When the water receded and Burns residents took the toll of the floods damage,
they began flocking to the Parr Lumber store, where they were happy to get
product at substantially reduced prices along with a $350 gift from the Lions.
When everything was said and done, the Lions helped 69 Burns families begin
their recovery from the Silvies River flood of 2025. Lion Pete was quoted saying,

“When the waters receded and folks faced the question of where do we start …
this assistance was immediate and gave them a starting point and hope to begin
the recovery process. There was no ‘red tape’ so to speak.” Jon Case replied, “We
would do it again in a heartbeat. The appreciation shown from those affected was
moving.”
As Burns families continue their recovery, the Burns Lions will be there to help. As
always the Burns Lions will make sure underserved community members will get
the vision and hearing help they need and that all the K-8 students get quality
vision screening plus so much more. The Burns Lions say: “Where there’s a need,
there’s a Lion”. The Burns Lions can be reached through their Facebook page at
https://www.facebook.com/BurnsLionClub/

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For more information, contact Lion Pete Runnels at peterunnels59@gmail.com

Salem, Ore. – As of Wednesday morning, based on available data from both Marion and Polk County residents of Salem, the Salem five-year local option levy appears to be passing. An update from Marion County on the results of the May 20, 2025 measure is anticipated by 5 p.m. Thursday, May 22. When the outcome of the levy is known, if it passes, the Salem Budget Committee will reconvene on May 28, 2025 to consider amendments to the FY26 Budget.

“I’ve been moved by the outpouring of support for our Library, our 90 parks and countless recreation programs and Center 50+,” said Mayor Julie Hoy. “So many have come together in support of these treasured community resources. I remain hopeful and I’ll be watching the results of yesterday’s ballot measure closely. I’m looking forward to sharing in the good news for our community.”

If the measure passes, the property tax revenue generated would be placed in a dedicated and protected account overseen by a committee to ensure that the revenue is used only for purposes outlined in the measure, including:

• Restoring and continuing Salem Public Library services.
• Operation of Center 50+ classes, activities, outreach services and support services.
• Recreation programming, including youth day camps, youth sports and community events.
• Management and maintenance of more than 90 parks, including facilities, playgrounds, splash fountains, sports fields, trails and more.

The Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Budget begins on July 1, 2025 and addresses the $13.8 million budget shortfall in funding for Salem Public Library, parks, recreation programs and Center 50+, and other General Fund programs. If the measure does not pass, the City of Salem’s Fiscal Year 2026 Proposed Budget, advanced by the Budget Committee on May 7, will be taken up by the Salem City Council on June 9, 2025.

“If the early results bear out, this will get us closer to the services our community wants and deserves ,” said Interim City Manager Krishna Namburi. “I remain hopeful that we can restore services our community relies on and, retain the dedicated staff whose jobs would be  affected, without this additional community support .”

Even after the reductions included in the FY 2026 budget, the projected forecast shows an $8.9 million deficit in FY 2027. The City will continue pursuing new revenue opportunities, identifying efficiencies and finding cost savings, including direct engagement with the State of Oregon to pursue funding support for public safety services to State facilities

The Budget Committee’s work began April 16, 2025 and continued through May 7, 2025. The Committee considered in-person testimony and in writing sharing how these services have positively impacted their lives and voicing concerns over the potential cuts. The Committee also held public hearings on Capital Improvement Fund and projects, and State Shared revenues discussed. At each meeting, the City provided responses to questions. All the Budget Committee’s materials, and the Proposed FY26 Budget, are available on the City’s website.

# # #

Vancouver, Wash. – The county manager is seeking applicants with an interest in government and educational access television and cable television franchising to fill an opening on the volunteer city/county Telecommunications Commission. Applicants must be Clark County residents.

The unfinished three-year term begins immediately and ends May 31, 2027.

The commission serves in an advisory capacity to the County Council and Vancouver City Council on matters related to cable television and telecommunications issues. It makes reports, monitors compliance with city and county cable franchise agreements, and establishes rules and regulations regarding cable television and associated telecommunications issues. The commission also serves as an advisory body during cable franchise renewal negotiations with the cable operator.

The commission meets two times per year on Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m. Meetings are held in a hybrid format with in an in-person option at City Hall, 415 W. Sixth St. and an online option.

To be considered, please submit a letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager’s Office, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000. Applicants also can send information by email to michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 pm Friday, June 20.

Learn more about the commission on the city of Vancouver’s website.

TIGARD, Ore. – For Portland Community College student Yuriko Ose, interior design is more than an aesthetic pursuit — it is a cultural expression. As she prepares to graduate with honors from PCC this June with an associate degree in Interior Design, Ose is already applying her skills in the real world, blending international perspectives with local expertise.

“Culture shapes the spaces we inhabit,” Ose said. “This cultural influence has had a lasting impact on my approach to design, inspiring me to pursue a career where I can blend these principles with contemporary design solutions.”

Born in the United States and raised in Japan since the age of seven, Ose brings a unique global outlook to her work. She first earned a bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages and Literature at Sophia University, the oldest Catholic university in Japan, and studied abroad in France before deciding to pursue her passion for design at PCC.

From Tokyo to Tigard: Designing for the Pacific Northwest

As part of her PCC experience, Ose is currently interning with Ichijo Technological Homes, one of Japan’s largest homebuilders — but with a twist. Their focus isn’t Tokyo or Kyoto. Instead, they’re building sustainable, energy-efficient homes right here in Tigard and throughout the Pacific Northwest.

In her role, Ose works closely with the firm’s lead architect, translating designs into CAD layouts that balance individual lot requirements, neighborhood design standards and homeowner preferences. The goal: energy-efficient homes that are both functional and beautiful.

“Yuriko is working diligently and learning every day," said Ichijo USA Vice President Masaki Narita. "I am confident that she will become an excellent designer."

Narita added that it is a challenging position, but one that speaks to her strengths — blending technical skill, artistic vision, and an understanding of how design serves people.

Finding the Right Fit at PCC

Ose found PCC’s Interior Design Program online while researching U.S. colleges. The program stood out to her for its clear curriculum, sample schedules and defined career pathways.

“I appreciated the small class sizes, as they allowed for more meaningful interactions with both my classmates and professors,” she said. “Although I’d never been to Oregon before, the program felt like the right fit.”

Originally planning to enroll in 2020, Ose postponed her start due to the COVID-19 pandemic and arrived in Portland two years later. Since then, she has immersed herself fully in student life — balancing design studio classes with part-time work as a food server and Japanese language teacher, along with her internship.

Despite a full schedule, Ose has maintained a 4.0 grade-point average and earned a place on PCC’s President’s List. 

“These smaller classes were beneficial because they allowed me to focus more on projects,” she said. “Additionally, students typically take the same classes each term, which fosters strong connections and a sense of community.” 

Robin Rigby Fisher, department chair for interior design, said Ose has been a standout student from the beginning.

“She shares thoughtful ideas and brings a strong creative perspective,” Fisher said. “Yuriko is always supportive of her classmates, offering encouragement and contributing to a collaborative atmosphere. Her design work is both original and deeply informed by her cultural background and personal experiences.”

Designing for Well-being

Her passion for interior design deepened during the pandemic, as the world collectively reconsidered the importance of home environments.

“Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by floor plans and enjoyed envisioning how to optimize limited spaces,” Ose said. “But during the pandemic, I realized how much our environments affect our mental and physical well-being. That inspired me to pursue design professionally.”

At PCC, students in the Interior Design Program spend the first year developing foundational skills — from hand drafting to digital design tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp and Chief Architect. In the second year, the focus shifts to preparing for the industry, with portfolio development, internships and networking opportunities.

“Personally, this approach was valuable, as it allowed me to gain real-world experience and get ready to apply for jobs before graduation,” Ose said.

A Global Perspective, A Local Future

As a next-generation designer with a multicultural background, Ose embodies the kind of student the college hopes to attract — driven, creative and globally minded. She encourages others, especially international students, to consider PCC as a stepping stone to a fulfilling design career.

“The support I received from everyone played a significant role in helping me succeed in my courses,” she said. “My career vision is now much clearer, and I have a stronger sense of the direction I want to pursue.”

With graduation quickly approaching, Ose is actively exploring interior design roles that will allow her to combine her technical training with her cross-cultural perspective. Her dream? To specialize in commercial interior spaces that support both functionality and well-being.

“Understanding that each individual has unique needs for design and comfort inspired me to pursue interior design professionally,” she said. “I want to create environments that help people feel good — spaces that work beautifully and reflect the people who use them.”

For now, Ose is focused on finishing the term strong and walking across the graduation stage in June. But her journey is just beginning.

Wherever her career leads — in Japan, Oregon or beyond — Yuriko Ose is poised to make her indelible mark in the world of interior design.

For more details on the Interior Design Program, visit the https://www.pcc.edu/programs/interior-design/

2025 Commencement

Thousands of PCC grads like Ose will be honored as part of the class of 2025. The college’s commencement ceremony takes place at 7 p.m., Friday, June 13 at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum where thousands of newly minted graduates will celebrate their degrees and certificates with family and friends.

Learn more: https://www.pcc.edu/commencement/

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/

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

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Salem, Oregon – In the second round of FY2025 Career Opportunity Program grant awards, the Oregon Arts Commission and The Ford Family Foundation have awarded $97,791 to 29 artists for career development projects.

The awards include $44,344 from the Oregon Arts Commission for all artistic disciplines and $53,447 in supplemental funding for 15 established visual artists through a partnership with The Ford Family Foundation’s Visual Arts Program. Individual grants range from $1,000 to $8,299.

Career Opportunity grants support individual Oregon artists by enabling them to take advantage of timely opportunities that enhance their artistic careers. Most grants support the artists’ participation in residencies, exhibitions or performance opportunities.

“This grant program invests in the career growth of talented Oregon artists,” said Arts Commissioner Jason Holland, who led one of two review panels. “Such support helps artists build visibility and opens doors to new creative paths and collaborations."

The Ford Family Foundation funds are available to established Oregon visual artists who are producing new work in the fields of contemporary art and craft.

"The Ford Family Foundation values creativity in our communities and is thrilled to align with the Arts Commission to invest in career opportunities for Oregon artists," said Kara Inae Carlisle, president and CEO of The Ford Family Foundation.

FY2025 Career Opportunity Program round two grant award recipients are:

Rebecca Burrell, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support Burrell’s post as artist-in-residence at Uppsala University’s Centre for Gender Research in Sweden through the Fulbright Student Program for the 2025-26 school year. Burrell will artistically analyze how feminine freedom is portrayed in Swedish film, through digital media and printed book works.

Suzanne Chi, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support a two-week creative research project in Berlin, Germany, with multi-disciplinary artists Olivia Ancona and Scott Jennings, resulting in the creation of a new performance work.

Kimberly Smith Claudel, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support the material and transportation costs for a solo exhibition at the Vestibule Gallery in Seattle, Washington, in October 2025.

Matthew Claudel, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation $4,000

To support production and travel costs to Venice in May 2025, where Claudel will install an exhibition at the Venice Biennale of Architecture – an interactive experience showing a new urban narrative driven by the potential of advanced manufacturing building on a case study in Portland.

Epiphany Couch, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support the creation of new work for a group exhibition at Stove Works contemporary art space in Chattanooga, Tennessee, from Aug. 1 to Nov. 15; to cover travel costs for participation in the panel discussion; and to expand the reach of the artist’s work to new audiences.

Fernanda D'Agostino, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $6,007

To support Field Studies, a year-long engagement/workshop at Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts, in conjunction with its “Knowing Nature” programming, culminating in a performance/installation in April 2026.

Ime Etuk, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support travel to and participation in the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival in August, where Etuk’s feature film, “Outdoor School,” will screen for a national audience, providing significant career advancement, networking opportunities and professional development.

Ethan Gans-Morse, Phoenix

Oregon Arts Commission $1,516

To support travel to Los Angeles to participate in a recording session during the summer of 2025, at which Grammy Award-winning pianist Nadia Shpachenko will record Gans-Morse’s composition, “Bomb Shelter Variations.”

Damien Gilley, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,216

To support Gilley’s solo exhibition “Vista Vista” at Maryhill Museum of Art in Washington from Aug. 1 through Nov. 15. Gilley will create a 10-by-48 feet wall installation and will be giving an artist talk to the public promoted by the museum to regional communities.

Brian Gillis, Eugene

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,500

To support “Washington Ware,” a para-institutional project (running from Sept. 19 to Oct. 15) that will transform the Harold Washington College’s President’s Gallery into a cooperative pottery that produces tableware to benefit vulnerable people and the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Patricia Vazquez Gomez, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,500

To support participation in a residency at Hangar Center for Artistic Research in Lisbon, Portugal, in the fall of 2025.

Emily Kepulis, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $1,000

To support travel expenses associated with attending the CloverMill Artist Residency in Giessenburg, The Netherlands, June 19-22.

Joy Kloman, Hood River

The Ford Family Foundation $2,500

To support Kloman’s international artist residency at Hangar Center of Artistic Research in Lisbon, Portugal, in March 2026.

Jenna Lechner, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,750

To support Lechner’s attendance at a two-week artist residency with the National Park Service at the Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve in Cave Junction, Oregon, from late May through early June.

Marne Lucas, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation $3,000

To support an art and science artist residency at PLAYA in Summer Lake, Oregon, Nov. 6-15, where Lucas will film new black and white, infrared, thermal landscape video, and develop a collage on paper series from her “transmundane” prints embellished with metal leaf.

Mack McFarland, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,745

To support McFarland’s travel and on-the-ground expenses to attend and co-organize one of the four panels of the Norway conference Circuits of Experiences, Research and Knowledges, which is dedicated to strengthening international networks in contemporary art, with a strong focus on current curatorial discourses.

Ryan Meagher, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support a cross-cultural musical exchange, Lluvia Verde, that unites Xalapa’s Son Jarocho heroes with Portland's jazz innovators. Musicians from each city will collaborate on new compositions blending traditions and culminating in a performance at the Montavilla Jazz Festival, Aug. 29-31.

William Morrow, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $8,000

To support research travel, a publication and participation in programming for the major survey exhibition Morrow is guest curating for the Contemporary Art Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, Sept. 26 through Jan. 11, 2026. The exhibit is entitled “Ed Bereral: Wanted for Disturbing the Peace.”

Roger Peet, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,500

To support Peet’s exhibit of artwork at Gallery G in Hiroshima, Japan, in August for a collaborative installation with two other artists during the 80th anniversary commemoration of the use of the first atomic bomb.

LeBrie Rich, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,970

To support attending an 18-day artist residency in September at Ragdale, where Rich will develop a new body of work.

Tracy Schlapp, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation $2,500

To support travel to the Museum of International Folk Art to present about The PonyXpress and participate on a panel for the exhibition "Between the Lines: Prison Art & Advocacy;" to teach writing workshops; and to develop curriculum from the exhibition to publish on prison tablets nationwide.

Ketzia Schoneberg, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation $2,000

To support Schoneberg’s residency at Virginia Center for Creative Arts (VCCA) in Amherst, Virginia, from May 28 to June 9.

Stephanie Simek, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,458

To support the production of a new multi-media project to be made during an artist residency at the Museum of Glass in Tacoma, Washington, in November 2025.

Garrett Sluski, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation $3,750

To support Pepper Pepper’s first institutional solo visual arts exhibition “Pink Moment and Other Works” at Seattle Central College’s M. Rosetta Hunt Art Gallery in early fall 2025.

Andrea Stolowitz, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support the showing of Stolowitz’s new play, “Number Our Days,” as part of the 2025 Cork Midsummer Festival in Ireland June 13-22.

Chet Udell, Corvallis

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support a year-long artist residency at Hatfield Marine Science Center, where Udell will develop a combination of interactive environmental art installations, acoustic ecology sound compositions and community workshops that connect the coastal environment, community, science and the arts in Newport.

Samantha Wall, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $8,229

To support Wall’s 2026 solo exhibition at Seattle Art Museum, on display from February through September 2026.

Jonathan Walters, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,650

To support an opportunity for international collaboration, to create networking and groundwork-building opportunities to help theater artist Walters expand his career in Oregon and abroad; Walters will lead several different workshops and trainings in Zimbabwe in September.

Jennifer Wright, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support “Long Strings,” an immersive, interactive and visually stunning concert experience that will transform Zidell Shipyard’s cavernous barge building into a gigantic, one-of-a-kind sculptural musical instrument; the concert event is July 18-19.

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of Business Oregon (formerly Oregon Economic and Community Development Department) in 1993, in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon Legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission’s expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development. 

The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. More information about the Oregon Arts Commission is available online at: artscommission.oregon.gov.

This boating season looks to be a great one. To create great memories, the Oregon State Marine Board reminds boaters to be aware of their surroundings, have all the required gear, and let others know their recreation plans.            
 

“Part of the boating experience is the planning ahead, boating with others, and having someone be a steady lookout,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Oregon State Marine Board. “And of course, wearing a properly fitted life jacket for the boating activity should be at the top of all boaters' minds.”

The Marine Board has many resources to help boaters have a safe and enjoyable experience on all of Oregon’s waterways. The agency advises boaters to take the time to plan to use the Marine Board’s interactive boating access map. The map displays public boat ramps, local rules for boat operations, and other information about a facility, like the facility owner and amenities. Also, check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides. See if there are any reported obstructions using the agency’s obstructions map. Boaters can also check the Marine Board’s website to find out what equipment is required based on the size and type of boat. Have the right gear for the planned activities and make sure each passenger has a properly fitting US Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

The Marine Board would like to remind boaters to:

• Boat Sober. Abstain from consuming marijuana, drugs, or alcohol, which impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination and also cause dehydration. Boating demands sharp situational awareness. 
• All children 12 and under are required to wear a life jacket when underway on all boats (motorized and nonmotorized). All boaters on Class III whitewater rivers are required to wear a life jacket.
• Be courteous to other boaters and share the waterway. Stage your gear in the parking lot or staging area, regardless of your boat type. This makes launching faster and everyone around you happier.
• In Oregon, all motorboat operators with propulsion greater than 10 horsepower must take a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card when operating the boat. Paddlers of nonmotorized boats 10’ and longer are required to purchase a waterway access permit. The Marine Board also offers a free, online Paddling Course for boaters new to the activity.
• Fill out a float plan and leave it with friends and family. This way, they can call for help if you are overdue.

All of this information and more about safe boating in Oregon can be found at Boat.Oregon.gov. Use the search bar for fast results.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Assessor’s office property tax exemption specialists will be available to answer questions and enroll property owners in the county’s property tax relief program at an upcoming event in La Center.

The Tax Exemption Program for senior citizens and people with disabilities can reduce property tax liability for qualifying homeowners. Eligibility is based on age or disability, home ownership, residency, and income. Participants are not required to repay the taxes, and their homes are not subject to property liens.

Exemption specialists will be available to help enroll applicants at La Center City Hall, 210 E. Fourth St. from 9 am to 3 pm Friday, May 30.

To schedule an appointment for the enrollment event, call 564.397.2391 or email eduction@clark.wa.gov">taxreduction@clark.wa.gov. Walk-ins also are welcome. Homeowners interested in attending should bring photo ID, federal tax return, W-2 and/or 1099, and any deduction documentation. 

Learn more about the program and apply online at https://assessor-property-tax-exemption-program-clarkcountywa.hub.arcgis.com/.

The Civil Service Commission of Clackamas Fire will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. 

The meeting will be held via video remote conferencing and is open to the public to attend. If you would like to attend online or by phone, please visit our website for the Zoom meeting link and passcode at: https://clackamasfire.com/public-notices/.

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Nurses, patients, and community leaders are calling on Samaritan Health Services’ board of directors to keep hospital birth centers open at Samaritan hospitals in Lebanon and North Lincoln and protect residents’ access to local healthcare. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, May 21, 2025

BEND, OR — The High Desert Museum’s signature outdoor flight program, Raptors of the Desert Sky, returns beginning Saturday, May 24. The demonstration takes place daily during the summer at 11:30 am through Labor Day.

Hawks, owls, falcons and even turkey vultures soar from perch to perch directly over the crowd seated in a natural amphitheater nestled in the Museum’s ponderosa pine forest. A Museum expert narrates the action, sharing the hunting strategies and natural behaviors of these spectacular birds of prey, as well as what we can do to help preserve them in the wild.

The program takes place weather and air quality permitting. The Museum website will be updated to reflect any time changes, such as an earlier start time to accommodate for high temperatures that might stress the birds.

Tickets are separate from Museum entry ($8 for non-member adults, including seniors; $6 for children; members receive 20% discount) and are sold at Admissions for that day’s program until 11:00 am. They are not available online. Tickets often sell out before 10:00 am. The Museum strongly recommends that visitors arrive when the Museum opens at 9:00 am to secure tickets from Admissions.

Raptors of the Desert Sky is made possible by Fly Redmond, Avion Water Company and KTVZ News Channel 21, with support from Bigfoot Beverages. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/raptors-of-the-desert-sky.

In addition, the Museum’s summer schedule of daily talks begins on Saturday. Visitors can meet a mammal in the popular Desert Dwellers talk at 3:00 pm, and they can also learn about wolves, raptors and other High Desert species in other talks. Daily talks are free with admission. Talk details are at highdesertmuseum.org/daily-schedule.

The historic High Desert Ranger Station will be open weekends from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm starting Saturday, as well. In December 2024, the ranger station moved from its previous location at the front of the Museum to its new spot along the Fire in the Forest trail. The U.S. Forest Service ranger station was built east of the Sierra Nevada in 1933 and moved to the Museum in 2008 in partnership with the Pacific Northwest Forest Service Association of Forest Service retirees (known as the Old Smokeys). Old Smokeys and volunteers staff the station to engage with Museum visitors. The ranger station will be open daily starting July 1. The building’s history is at highdesertmuseum.org/high-desert-ranger-station.

Meanwhile, the 1904 Lazinka Sawmill will be up and running for three select days this summer: June 14, July 29 and August 28. From 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm each day, visitors can see an authentic sawmill used at the turn of the 20^th century to process wood with an enormous blade slicing through thick Oregon timber. Visitors can experience the magic of the sawmill for free with admission. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/lazinka-sawmill.

On July 16, visitors are invited to Welcome the Night with Museum staff and volunteers. The event takes place after hours from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm and celebrates sundown, the transition between day and night when nocturnal wildlife stirs. Participants are encouraged to bring a headlamp or flashlight and learn how a dark night sky free from light pollution is critical for wildlife. The family-friendly event includes telescope tours, insect discoveries, bat watching, a constellation tour, food and drinks for purchase, raffle prizes and more. Adults and children (3 and older) are $10. Children 2 and younger are free. Museum members receive 20% discount. Learn more and reserve tickets at highdesertmuseum.org/welcome-the-night-2025.

Visitors should keep in mind the indoor art exhibitions and galleries, as well. Patterns at Play: Fractals in Nature, an interactive and family-friendly exhibition, encourages kids and adults alike to build their own fractals and immerse themselves in the mesmerizing world of nature’s repeating patterns. The photographic artistry of Frank S. Matsura, a Japanese immigrant who set up a studio in rural Okanogan County, is on display in Frank S. Matsura: Portraits from the Borderland.

On July 5, the Museum opens its annual Art in the West juried exhibition and silent auction. Featuring more than 100 artworks ranging from watercolors and acrylics to photography and sculptures, the exhibition celebrates the landscapes, wildlife, people, cultures and history of the High Desert. Discover more about the Museum’s exhibitions at highdesertmuseum.org/exhibitions.

Learn more about visiting the Museum at highdesertmuseum.org.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

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

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Vancouver, WA – The Clark County Historical Museum’s popular program History on Tap returns Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the historic Kiggins Theatre (1011 Main Street, Vancouver, WA) with “History on Tap: Vancouver Ballet Folklorico Presents – TOUR OF MÉXICO.”

This dynamic and engaging evening will take audiences on a visual and musical journey through Mexico with Vancouver Ballet Folklórico. The program will showcase authentic dances from various regions of the country, highlighting the rich cultural diversity of Mexican traditions through music, fashion, and storytelling. From the southern states to the northern borders, each dance offers a unique glimpse into Mexico’s vibrant heritage. The evening will also include a fashion show of traditional costumes and live performances by VBF dancers.

Founded nearly 12 years ago in Vancouver, Vancouver Ballet Folklórico is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and engaging children of Hispanic descent through traditional Mexican dance. Led by founder and director Anna Cruz, whose commitment to cultural preservation has earned her accolades such as the Keeper of the Culture Award, the 2024 Iris Awards, and the Latino Art BRAVO Award, VBF has become a beloved cultural institution in Clark County.

“TOUR OF MÉXICO” promises to educate, inspire, and entertain—making it a perfect summer outing for families, history buffs, and lovers of culture and dance.

Tickets are $5 in advance, $10 at the door, and free for Clark County Historical Museum members. Purchase online at Kigginstheatre.com.

This event is made possible by the generous support of VDA, Heritage Bank, Port of Vancouver, and Giving Solutions Group.

For more information, visit cchmuseum.org or call 360-993-5679.

On May 1, 2025, Daniel Stuebgen (54 years old), was found guilty by a Lincoln County jury of five separate incidents of child sexual abuse, conduct he perpetrated in 2023 on an twelve-year-old who was volunteering at Happy Trails Feed & Tack (Lincoln City) and Green Acres Beach & Trail Rides (Pacific City), two businesses owned by Stuebgen and his ex-wife, Teresa Stuebgen.

After a five-day trial, a Lincoln County jury found Stuebgen guilty of three counts of Rape in the Second Degree, two counts of Sodomy in the Second Degree, four counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree and four counts of Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct. All of these offenses are subject to mandatory Measure 11 prison sentences under ORS 137.700.

This case was investigated by Detective Bud Lane of the Lincoln City Police Department and prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace.

The Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the Lincoln City Police Department and the Children’s Advocacy Center for their excellent work and perseverance in helping this child receive justice.

Stuebgen is scheduled to be sentenced by Lincoln County Circuit Court Judge Sheryl Bachart on June 3 at 3:00 PM.

Any questions can be directed to DA Jenna Wallace at 541-265-4145.