WHAT: In advance of the nurses’ strike that begins June 18, representatives from some of the striking units will be available to talk with the media about why they are going on strike, what negotiations have been like these past nine months, and what they hope to achieve.

WHEN/WHERE: Monday, June 17 from 10-11 a.m.   
Oregon Nurses Association, 18765 SW Boones Ferry Road, 3rd Floor Conference Room, Tualatin  

Media who are unable to attend in person should schedule a time to talk with a nurse via video conference or phone during the allotted time by emailing Myrna Jensen at Jensen@OregonRN.org

WHO: Nurse leaders from Providence bargaining units who will go on strike Tuesday, June 18 at 6 a.m.

WHY: On June 7, nurses from six Providence hospitals issued a ten-day notice of their intent to hold a limited duration 3-day strike from June 18-20. The action came after months of negotiations and four days of central mediation where little movement was made on the nurses’ top priorities of safe staffing, affordable health care, increased paid time off and market wages.  

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of 20,000 nurses, and health care professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses, and healthcare professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.

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The Multnomah Education Service District Board of Directors will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on June 18, 2024. The Board will be considering a Supplemental Budget.  
This meeting will be held virtually through Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/84290824488?pwd=NLVw3y8mWJWl0nCxyaucX15EQRCtCQ.1     
Passcode: 618771

The MESD Board will meet in Executive Session under (ORS 192.660(2)(d))-To conduct deliberations with persons designated by the governing body to carry on labor negotiations. 

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/85683752033?pwd=JlLHhp8vojg4RqAge5oFhEbIDowBRr.1
Passcode: 643014

On Friday June 14th at 6:08 PM Sandy PD Officers responded to a traffic crash in the intersection of Highway 26 and 362nd Ave. in the city of Sandy. Clackamas Fire and American Medical Response personnel also responded.

The crash closed down Highway 26 as medical personnel tended to an injured driver and law enforcement investigated the crash. The crash was investigated, the intersection was cleared, and the highway was reopened in approximately 40 minutes.

One driver, an 18-year old male from Bend, was transported to a local area hospital. That male was later issued a criminal citation for Reckless Driving. Impairment was not a factor in this crash.

On Friday, June 14, at approximately 3:00 p.m., callers to 911 reported that an amusement park ride, the AtmosFEAR at Oaks Amusement Park, had stalled. Callers stated the ride was stuck with an estimated 30 riders belted in and upside down. Within moments, Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC) 911 call takers and dispatchers triaged the call and dispatched a high angle rope rescue response to the scene. This put in motion the multi-unit response with the closest fire Engine and fire Truck, along with the high angle specialty rescue team consisting of one fire Engine, one fire Truck, two Squads, as well as a Battalion Chief to oversee the command of the incident as well as the operations once on scene. Dispatch also initiated the response of a medic unit from American Medical Response (AMR).

While enroute to the location, dispatchers updated the responding units and notified them that everyone on the ride was reported to be safely restrained by the ride’s safety equipment and that all riders were awake and breathing. Crews arrived on scene within about five minutes after dispatch. They then made their way to the ride, established command, and began to work with Park facility staff to troubleshoot the best course of action. Simultaneously, out of an abundance of caution, a Medical Branch with a patient triage was established so that once the riders were returned to the ground, their medical condition could be evaluated. To augment the initial AMR medic unit that was dispatched, Command requested an AMR Supervisor and additional AMR medic units should there be multiple individuals needing transport.

Coincidently, approximately one year ago, Portland Fire & Rescue’s high angle rope rescue team was invited to participate in an evacuation exercise/drill for this very ride by Oaks Amusement Park. This training opportunity provided a strong working relationship and background for all involved as well as established a good pre-plan. As a result, PF&R and Park staff were able to manually override the system and safely return the ride and all riders to the ground. The ride was reported to have returned to the ground about nine minutes after this manual process began.

Prior to the riders being released, a medical evaluation was completed by PR&F and AMR medics to ensure there was no medical need and all vital signs were stable. The task of reuniting the riders with their parents once it was determined safe to do so was the next important task. PF&R worked with Park staff to reunite all riders with a loved ones who had made their way to the Park.

Out of an abundance of caution, it has been reported that one rider was transported to a hospital for observation after this incident. No further information will be provided about the patients age, gender, or transport location.

Portland Fire & Rescue is grateful for the assistance from and would like to thank all of our partners in this successful rescue: American Medical Response (AMR), Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC/911), Oaks Amusement Park, and Portland Police Bureau (PPB).

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

###

At approximately 2:55 this afternoon, the AtmosFEAR ride stopped at the apex position while operating in the 360-degree setting, suspending 28 riders upside down.  Oaks Park staff immediately initiated emergency procedures and called 911. Emergency responders arrived at approximately 3:20 PM. Within minutes of the first responders' arrival, Oaks Park Maintenance returned the riders safely to the unloading position, where medics were waiting to assess the health and wellness of the riders. 

The riders who were suspended were assessed by Portland Fire & Rescue and American Medical Response.  One rider with pre-existing medical conditions was transported to the hospital for further evaluation, out of an abundance of caution.  All other riders were released by medics to go home with their families.

As is standard procedure, in 2023, local emergency response teams held an emergency response training at the AtmosFEAR, and implementation of that response plan was carried out effectively today.

The AtmosFEAR has been in operation since 2021 and has operated without incident to this point.  The ride will remain closed until further notice. Oaks Park Management was in immediate contact with the manufacturer and will work with both the manufacturer and state inspectors to identify the cause of the stoppage.

We wish to express our deepest appreciation to the first responders and our staff for taking prompt action, leading to a positive outcome today, and to the rest of the park guests who swiftly followed directions to vacate the park to make way for the emergency responders to attend to the situation. Most of all, we are thankful that the riders are safe and with their families.

Any park guest who had their visit cut short today will be extended a refund or opportunity to reschedule their visit.  If you attended today, please keep your ride bracelet to help expedite the refund or rescheduling process.  Please reach out to Oaks Park's Administration office M-F at 503-233-5777 or email info@oakspark.com.

HILLSBORO, Ore- On June 6, 2024, a Washington County jury convicted Jesus Esteban Flores of two counts of Robbery in the First Degree, two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Theft in the Second Degree. Judge Brandon Thompson sentenced the defendant to a total of 109 months in prison and ordered he serve three years of post-prison supervision. Senior Deputy District Attorney Andrew Freeman prosecuted this case. 

On September 17, 2023, the defendant entered the Washington Square Mall and committed multiple crimes over a short period of time. The defendant first entered a department store, where he placed a large kitchen knife on the shoe counter and asked for a pair of shoes in his size. After the employee retrieved the shoes, the defendant took them without paying. He then shoplifted a hat from a neighboring store before he briefly stepped outside to put on the stolen shoes.

The defendant reentered the mall and went to a clothing store where he concealed multiple shirts under his clothes. An employee approached Mr. Flores to intervene, but the defendant displayed the knife in his waistband and stepped toward the victim. That employee backed away and watched as the defendant left the store with the blade in hand as he asked this victim if he was “trying to get the knife?” 

A security officer responded and followed the defendant from a distance throughout the mall. The defendant noticed this and turned to confront the officer outside a main mall entrance in front of shoppers. He pointed his knife and made verbal threats to kill the officer. The officer backed away, and additional mall security followed at a distance as they alerted law enforcement. 

Tigard police officers confronted the defendant as he attempted to leave the area on a bike. They identified themselves and ordered him to drop the knife. After the defendant refused multiple orders, they fired 40mm less lethal foam rounds at the defendant. Officers then seized the knife, returned the merchandise, and took the defendant to jail.  

Washington County District Attorney Kevin Barton recently launched a new campaign aimed at protecting area businesses from shoplifters. The district attorney's office has created shoplifting warning signs and is distributing these signs to area business owners free of charge. Visit our website to learn more about this effort and to request a sign. 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office wishes to acknowledge the work of the Tigard Police Department and Washington Square Mall security officers in protecting other patrons. 

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

The Centennial School District Governing Board will convene for a Work Session and Budget Hearing on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. 

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

The Board and key staff will attend in-person at CSD's District Office - 18135 SE Brooklyn St., Portland, Or 97236.

If you are interested in joining the meeting, please click on the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84409120984?pwd=dlZEdmNYekI3c0xmTU51VzRoK0x4Zz09
Passcode: 175675

Or Telephone, dial:
+1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799
Webinar ID: 844 0912 0984
Passcode: 175675

NOTE: An Executive Session will take place on June 20th at approximately 7:30 p.m. pursuant to (ORS 192.660(2)(i) - To review and evaluate the employment - related performance of the chief executive officer, of the public body, a public officer, employee or staff member who does not request an open hearing.

The Board and key staff will attend in-person at CSD's District Office.  Authorized parties may join the meeting virtually, by clicking the link below.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86249896637?pwd=0gN4XJ8_EGpkVOSjfuVK1pSPtiVriw.qNls-mni8LfM0EEh
Passcode: 426773

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Camas, WA – June 14, 2024—Camas High School’s Amateur Radio Club is thrilled to announce that they will attempt direct radio contact with the International Space Station (ISS) tomorrow, June 15, 2024, at 8:49 AM local time. Originally scheduled for next weekend, this highly anticipated event has been moved up due to favorable orbital conditions.

For a brief 10-minute window, while the ISS is visible over the local horizon, students will engage in an extraordinary opportunity to communicate with astronaut and Camas High School alumnus Mike Barratt. With the support of local volunteers from the Clark County Amateur Radio Club, students have meticulously prepared for this event by programming directional antennas to track the ISS as it traverses the sky.

“This is an incredible opportunity for our students to apply their learning in a real-world context and connect directly with a Camas High School alumnus who is now an astronaut,” said Camas High School teacher Josef Hoffman. “We are immensely proud of the hard work and dedication of our Amateur Radio Club members and their advisors.”

The media and community members are invited to attend this special event and are welcome to arrive as early as 8:15 AM. The contact will take place near the North Commons at Camas High School, where the students will be set up and ready to track the ISS. It will also be streamed live at this link: https://youtube.com/live/USJuIZriYwc 

The event culminates in extensive preparation and collaboration, demonstrating the power of hands-on learning and community involvement. The students' passion and commitment, supported by their advisors and local amateur radio enthusiasts, have made this event possible.

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Free meals will be available for everyone ages 1-18 this summer at two Battle Ground Public Schools locations. The Summer Food Services Program, sponsored by the district and funded primarily through a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant, helps provide nutritious meals during the summer months when children are not in school. Children and teens do not need to attend a Battle Ground school to participate. Meals must be consumed onsite. There will be no curbside pickup.

No meal service will be available on Thursday, July 4.
 

Meals will be served at the following locations:

Maple Grove Primary School, 610B SW Eaton Blvd., Battle Ground

● Lunch - Monday-Friday, June 24 to Aug. 16, 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

● Breakfast - Monday-Thursday, July 8 to July 18, 8-8:30 a.m. (No Friday breakfast service)
 

Daybreak Primary, 1900 NW 20th Ave., Battle Ground

● Lunch - Monday-Friday, June 24 to Aug. 16, 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

● No breakfast served at this site

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

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

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

1. mail:
   U.S. Department of Agriculture
   Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
   1400 Independence Avenue, SW
   Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or
2. fax:
   (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or
3. email: Program.Intake@usda.gov

Union County, Ore. 13 June 24- On Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 6:43 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 84, near milepost 270, in Union County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound GMC Yukon, operated by Tyree Jourdan Hescock (41) of La Grande, left the roadway for unknown reasons and traveled on the wrong side of a guardrail. The GMC struck the guardrail and began to roll, ejecting the operator who was not wearing a seatbelt.

The operator of the GMC (Hescock) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by La Grande Fire, Union County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT.

# # #

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

June 14, 2024

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that a Multnomah County jury delivered a guilty verdict for James Earl Griffin Jr., 39, for assaulting, raping, and sodomizing an adult female victim in June 2022. 

Trial & Verdict

The trial took place in front of Judge Cheryl Albrecht from June 10-13, with Deputy District Attorneys Julian Samuels and Sean Hughey as prosecutors. The 12-person jury delivered the verdict on June 13, finding Griffin guilty of:

• Two counts of Rape in the First Degree
• Two counts of Sodomy in the First Degree
• One count of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree
• One count of Assault in the Fourth Degree
• One count of Coercion

The jury also found Griffin not guilty of two counts of Kidnapping in the First Degree.

Sentencing is scheduled for July 11, 2024, in front of Judge Albrecht. Griffin remains in custody in Multnomah County pending sentencing.  

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office thanks the Portland Police Bureau for their assistance with this case, in particular Detective Nathan Wollstein.

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On 6/14/2024 at 8:45am, the Clark County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) responded to a reported carjacking that occurred in the 4500 block of NE 54th Ave. An unknown suspect pointed a handgun at the victims, demanded they exit the vehicle and stole their 1970s Ford F1 pickup truck. 

The suspect fled southbound on NE 54th Ave. Shortly thereafter, a Vancouver Police Department (VPD) officer located the occupied stolen vehicle, which then became disabled on southbound Interstate 5 near the exit for NE Fourth Plain Blvd. 

Additional CCSO, VPD, and Washington State Patrol units arrived on the scene and conducted a high-risk vehicle stop. The suspect was detained without incident and later identified by the victim as the carjacker. A firearm was located in the vehicle.

The suspect was identified as Edin M. Fallon, age 22, from Castle Rock, WA. Fallon was booked into the Clark County Jail on charges of Robbery-1 and Theft of a Motor Vehicle.

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Special Meeting

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a special meeting on June 17, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE Salem. For further information, please contact Shelby Wright at (503) 378-2191.

Agenda Items

1. Introductions

2. Nicholas Berg (DPSST #16489); Mist-Birkenfield Rural Fire Protection District; Initial Application for Benefits

    Presented by Kathy McAlpine

3. Next meeting – July 25, 2024, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting at 9:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. 

Portland's Safe Blocks Program wants to hear from you! We are interested in your opinions and feelings about safety in your local area, especially if you live, work, or are connected to one of the following Portland neighborhoods:

• Cully;
• Eliot;
• Hazelwood;
• Lents;
• Portsmouth; and
• Powellhurst-Gilbert.

The survey can be taken online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PDXSafety. For more information about the survey, visit - https://www.portland.gov/community-safety/ovp/news/2024/5/22/safe-blocks-program-community-survey.

Everyone who completes the survey can enter a drawing for a chance to win a $100 gift card. The survey will be open until July 31, 2024.

The survey will help the Safe Blocks Program assess and evaluate Portland's federal Byrne Grant to fund place-based community violence intervention programming in Hazelwood, Eliot, and Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhoods. Projects are expected to continue through 2027 while funds remain.

Visit the Safe Blocks Program for more information – https://www.portland.gov/safeblocks.

A single vehicle crash on Highway 30 in the Columbia River Gorge resulted in one passenger being transported to an area hospital by helicopter. The young woman remains in the hospital in serious condition.

On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at approximately 10:30 p.m., Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to a crash in the 44800 block of E Historic Columbia River Highway near Shepperd’s Dell. Responding deputies found the vehicle, a Hyundai sedan, 150 feet down a ravine. The driver, an 18-year-old male, sustained minor injury. One passenger, a 17-year-old female, was uninjured. A second passenger, also a 17-year-old female sustained serious injuries. Life Flight, a specially equipped medical helicopter, transported the seriously injured passenger to an area hospital, where she remains in serious condition. All three occupants of the vehicle were wearing seatbelts.

The East County Vehicular Crimes Team was activated and began investigating the crash. That investigation is ongoing. Investigators believe that excessive speed was the primary cause of the crash. The speed limit on E Historic Columbia River Highway is 40 miles per hour and the advisory speed for the curve near this crash is 20 miles per hour. Other possible contributing factors are still under investigation. 

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

Vancouver, Wash. – On June 8, 2024, the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) was involved in an officer-involved shooting. Two officers were placed on Critical Incident Leave. One officer discharged their firearm, and one officer witnessed the incident. Both officers were wearing body worn cameras (BWC) at the time of the incident and both officers patrol vehicles were equipped with front-facing in-car cameras. 

Following an officer-involved shooting involving the Vancouver Police Department, the department will release a Critical Incident Video, which includes video captured from department body worn cameras and patrol vehicle cameras. The release of these videos is at the discretion of the Chief of Police and is separate from the Independent Investigation Team (IIT) investigation.

The Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team (SWIIRT), led by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, is conducting an independent investigation of this incident. The Vancouver Police Department is not involved in the officer-involved shooting investigation. VPD will conduct an administrative investigation/review after the SWIIRT investigation is completed.

The Critical Incident Video can be viewed on the Vancouver Police Department website: Critical Incident Videos -The City of Vancouver, WA

The Vancouver Police Department will not be commenting on the investigation or the content in the Critical Incident Video. Release of the video is to provide some visual context of the incident as the Vancouver Police Department understands the events to have occurred, according to the video and incident information at the time.  

The Vancouver Police Department values the sanctity of human life and the dignity of all persons, and any loss of life is tragic. 

Please be aware the video contains graphic images and viewer discretion is strongly advised.

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OnPoint and OSAA have awarded $101,000 to 31 students since 2018

PORTLAND, Ore., June 14, 2024 — OnPoint Community Credit Union and the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) today announced six graduating seniors have won scholarships worth up to $10,000. The awards are part of the 2024 OnPoint Community Credit Union Scholar Program.

The program recognizes graduating Scholar Athletes and Activity Scholars from OSAA member schools with two $10,000 scholarships and four $5,000 scholarships. The two winners of the $10,000 scholarships are Nidhi Nair of Lake Oswego High School and Savannah White of Pleasant Hill High School.

The four winners of the $5,000 scholarships are Kale Bingaman of Imbler High School, Jillian Bremont of Redmond High School, Salahedin Safi of Reynolds High School and Linnea Naone of Glencoe High School. OnPoint received more than 450 applications from 164 OSAA member schools this year.

“We are honored to celebrate these six students who have demonstrated exceptional achievements in academics, sports and community service,” said Rob Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer of OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Each of these winners has shown remarkable dedication, leadership and a commitment to making a positive impact. Their hard work and perseverance are truly inspiring, and we are proud to support them as they continue to pursue their dreams.”

OnPoint’s Scholar Program honors graduating Oregon high school seniors who have earned a 3.50 or higher unweighted cumulative grade point average and have earned a varsity letter in an OSAA-sanctioned sport or competed in an OSAA-sanctioned activity.

“Following a record number of applicants, we’re excited to honor these outstanding scholars for their tremendous achievements,” said Peter Weber, OSAA Executive Director. “We sincerely appreciate OnPoint’s continued commitment and financial support as we partner to recognize top high school seniors throughout Oregon.”

Winners of the 2024 OnPoint Community Credit Union Scholar Program:

$10,000 Scholarship Winners

Nidhi Nair of Lake Oswego High School, Lake Oswego Public Schools, is committed to making a positive impact in both her local community and beyond. Nair founded the Random Acts of Kindness Club and successfully implemented the program in two different schools, fostering a culture of compassion and empathy. She volunteers with Hunger Fighters, a nonprofit food pantry that provided essential items to over 13,000 guests in 2023 alone. Nair is also an active member of her school, serving as ASB Secretary and Editor-in-Chief for the school newspaper. She also participated in Lake Oswego’s We the People Constitutional Law team, which led her to compete in the Harlan Institute Supreme Court competition. In the classroom, Nair has been recognized as a National Speech and Debate Association Academic All-American, AP Scholar with Honors and a recipient of the Rotary Club Educational Excellence Award. Nair will continue to use her talents to pursue a degree in Political Science, with aspirations of a future career in law.

Savannah White of Pleasant Hill High School, Pleasant Hill Public Schools, has an extensive agricultural background and a deep-rooted passion for community engagement. While competing in volleyball and basketball, White dedicated over 500 hours of community service through her role as vice president of the Pleasant Hill Future Farmers of America (FFA), where she promoted leadership and agriculture beyond the classroom. Her exemplary contribution to the program earned her a State Degree at the 2023 FFA State Convention. She also participated on the Oregon High School Equestrian Team (OHSET), where she fostered teamwork and furthered her positive impact on the local community. White challenged herself with a rigorous academic course load, taking over seven Advanced Placement (AP) classes while also learning Chinese and Spanish to enrich her cultural understanding and broaden her global perspective. White will continue to pursue her interests in agriculture through a degree in forest engineering at Oregon State University.

$5,000 Scholarship Winners

Salahedin Safi of Reynolds High School, Reynolds Public Schools, is a driven and compassionate student-athlete, dedicated to inclusivity and academic excellence. When not competing in basketball or track and field, Safi developed an inclusive environment at Reynolds by creating the Muslim Student Association. As founder of the Muslim Student Association, Safi spearheaded initiatives to bridge the understanding between Muslim students and school faculty, fostering a culture of respect and acceptance. His effort and dedication to the Muslim Student Association led Safi to create a sustainable foundation for many future generations of students at Reynolds. Safi has maintained a 4.0 weighted GPA while enrolling in 11 college-level classes. Safi will be attending Portland State University with a major in civil engineering. 

Jillian Bremont of Redmond High School, Redmond Public Schools, participated in soccer, basketball, track and field and cheerleading during her time at Redmond High School. Bremont uses her passion for sports to serve young members of the local community, coaching youth soccer and basketball teams and volunteering with the Redmond Swim programs and Unified Sports teams on campus. During the pandemic, she helped with the Redmond Cares program, gathering goods and household items for impacted families. Outside of the classroom and volunteer work, Bremont spends every morning before school helping at an early childcare program at a local elementary school while also juggling two jobs. Bremont earned a 4.346 weighted GPA and will graduate with 56 college credits. 

Kale Bingaman of Imbler High School, Imbler Schools, is a multi-sport athlete, participating in football, basketball, and track and field during his time at La Grande. When not competing, Bingaman participates in many community improvement organizations, such as Future Farmers of America (FFA), Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), National Honor Society (NHS), 4-H Club and the Community 101 Foundation for the State of Oregon. These organizations enabled Bingaman to help his local community by working at concession stands, hosting assemblies, washing cars, cleaning school grounds, organizing food drives and serving meals during community banquets. His dedication to Imbler led him to raise over $13,000 for a new digital communications board, which serves as one of La Grande’s primary methods of reaching community members. Bingaman maintained a 4.0 GPA while juggling many dual credit courses. Bingaman hopes to continue his education at Montana State University and major in agricultural business.

Linnea Naone of Glencoe High School, Hillsboro Public Schools, participated in basketball and track and field, and was captain of the Crimson Tide soccer and swimming teams. Through mentorship and volunteerism, Naone uses her passion for athletics as an avenue to give back to her community. She uses her background as a swimmer and lifeguard to mentor new lifeguards and give back at her local recreation centers. Naone is also a mentor for young students at a local Title 1 elementary school, where she helps guide and inspire future generations of student-athletes. She also volunteers at EveryBody Athletics, helping create an inclusive environment for disabled individuals to learn and thrive in athletics. Naone shows a high commitment to self-improvement, evidenced by her participation in track clubs during the off-season to develop her talents as an athlete. Naone maintained a 3.9 GPA while taking many AP classes. She has earned a spot on the track and field team at Seattle Pacific University and will major in health sciences.

All graduating seniors who participated in OSAA activities were eligible to apply for a scholarship. The Scholar Program is part of OnPoint’s partnership with OSAA as the title sponsor of the Oregon high school state championships.

OnPoint selected winners based on letters of recommendation and personal essays about their community leadership, classroom success and how participating in OSAA activities has helped them achieve their goals.

Visit onpointcu.com/community-giving to learn more about OnPoint’s support of local organizations like OSAA.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 563,000 members and with assets of $9.2 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 www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

ABOUT THE OREGON SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION

The Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) is a private non-profit, board-governed association comprised of 297 member high schools. A member of the National Federation of State High School Associations, the OSAA annually sponsors 124 teams and 440 individual state championships for students competing in 19 interscholastic activities. For more information, www.osaa.org or follow @OSAASports on social media.

Salem, Ore. — The City of Salem is warning drivers who use D Street NE that the road will be closed in both directions between Capitol Street NE and 14^th Street NE at the Union Pacific railroad crossing beginning Tuesday, June 18, 2024, from 6 p.m. to Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at noon. The 18-hour closure is necessary to make railroad crossing repairs at the intersection. Traffic will be detoured in both directions as construction is taking place. 

Location: D Street NE closed to traffic between Capitol Street NE and 14^th Street NE, Salem, OR.

Date and Time: Tuesday, June 18, from 6 p.m. to Wednesday, June 19, 2024, to noon.

Affected Areas: The D Street NE road closure will include travel lanes, sidewalks, and parking spaces near the train tracks in the construction zone.

Caution: Drivers are urged to be cautious while traveling, follow all signage, and watch for workers in the area.

Please continue to monitor the Current Road Conditions Map on the City of Salem website to receive up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem.  For additional information, please contact the City of Salem at 503-588-6211 or vice@cityofsalem.net">service@cityofsalem.net.

MEDIA ADVISORY

2024 Portland Business Alliance Annual Meeting 

Portland, OR. – June 14, 2024 – Join the Portland Business Alliance at our annual meeting, presented by U.S. Bank, on Tuesday, June 18^th at the Sentinel Hotel. This year, we celebrate the organization’s many successes and highlight business partners and people who are "running to" Portland, making investments in our community, and working hard to bring people back to the Rose City.

WHAT: Portland Business Alliance Annual Meeting

WHEN: Tuesday, June 18^th 11:30-1pm

WHERE: Sentinel Hotel, Downtown Portland, 614 SW 11th Ave, Portland

Featured speakers include, Stacey Dodson, Market President-Oregon & SW Washington, U.S. Bank: Navigating downtown Portland support with U.S. Bank, a stalwart supporter of local communities. Andrew Harrison, Chief Commercial Officer, Alaska Airlines: Take flight with industry insights from Alaska Airlines, a pioneer in connecting travelers to Portland, and a key investor in PDX’s new terminal. 

PLEASE RSVP TO:

Tina Sillers, Director of Media Relations

(916) 220-3897

ABOUT PORTLAND BUSINESS ALLIANCE

The Portland Business Alliance is an affiliation of three highly synergist corporate entities, including the Portland Metro Chamber, Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, and the Charitable Institute, including Partners in Diversity, that share a collective mission, vision, and values.

Founded in 1870, the Portland Metro Chamber is the older, largest and most diverse business organization in Oregon and SW Washington. The Chamber is the leading voice for business and represents more than 2,200 employer businesses advocating at all levels of government to support commerce, community health and vibrancy, and the region’s overall prosperity.

Downtown Portland Clean & Safe collaborates with local businesses, residents and community groups to provide enhanced cleaning and security services that help our city thrive. By working together, we ensure this 213-block area in the city center remains a vibrant meeting place to shop, dine, explore and live.

Partners in Diversity (PiD) works with employers to address critical needs for achieving and empowering a workforce that reflects the rapidly changing demographics of the Pacific Northwest. We accomplish these goals through educational programs, a career center and resources for CEOs, human resources professionals and diversity influencers.

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The following administrative changes will take place for the 2024-25 school year. With approval by the school board, all personnel assignments will take effect on July 1, 2024.

Battle Ground High School
Principal Charb Gourde will transfer to Prairie High School, where he will serve as an assistant principal. He will be replaced by Heather Ichimura, who is currently the principal at Tukes Valley Middle School.

Assistant Principal/Athletic Director Kirsten Talbott will move to Tukes Valley Middle School to become the assistant principal. Her position will be filled by Trevor Person, who is currently an associate principal/athletic director at Pacific Middle School in Evergreen Public Schools.

Prairie High School
Assistant Principal Erin Thompson will move to Pleasant Valley Middle School, where she will become the school’s assistant principal.

Tukes Valley Middle School
Current Tukes Valley Middle School Assistant Principal Ben Ziegler has been named principal at TVM for next school year.

Pleasant Valley Primary
Mari Schauer, a multi-tiered systems of support coach, will be the school’s new assistant principal. She takes over for Craig Morgan, the school’s interim assistant principal, who is retiring.

More administrative changes
Co-Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Dave Cresap is retiring at the end of the school year. His position will not be filled.

The Southwest Washington Independent Investigative Response Team (SWIIRT) is conducting the Independent Investigation, in accordance with WAC 139-12-030 and CJTC Best Practices, of the Vancouver Police Department’s (VPD) officer-involved shooting (OIS) that occurred on June 8th, 2024. The Clark County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation with assistance from the Camas Police Department and the Battle Ground Police Department. 

The involved and witness officers are being identified. Both remain on critical incident leave.

• The involved officer is Officer Brandon Riedel. Officer Riedel was hired by the Vancouver Police Department in July 2018. He is assigned to West Patrol. Additionally, he serves a collateral assignment as a member of the SW Washington Regional SWAT Team as a Tactical Emergency Medical Support Medic.
• The witness officer is Officer Stuart Drynan. Officer Drynan was hired by the Vancouver Police Department in January 2023. He is assigned to West Patrol.

On the date of the incident, investigators completed scene documentation and evidence collection. They also have interviewed available witnesses and completed a canvass for area video evidence. Investigators are requesting anyone who witnessed the shooting incident and has not been contacted by detectives to call them at 564-397-2847.

Investigators are now in the process of receiving and reviewing Body Worn Camera (BWC) video files and statements from the involved officers. Search warrants for additional digital evidence are also being pursued.

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

A search warrant was served at a Tigard home early yesterday morning, which led to the arrest of one person and the recovery of drugs and ammunition.

This investigation began more than a year ago, when the Tigard Police Department began getting numerous complaints from people living near SW Oak Street and SW 67^th Avenue regarding suspicious activity at a home in the neighborhood. Neighbors reported a large variety of people coming and going at all hours of the night, suspected drug activity and complaints regarding animals and trash on the property.

Patrol officers found increased activity at the property in recent weeks and gathered evidence to apply for a warrant to search the home. A judge granted the warrant, which was executed early yesterday morning (June 13, 2024) by the Washington County Tactical Negotiations Team (TNT) in partnership with Tigard Police officers and detectives. 

As the team arrived, three people were getting into a car in the driveway. As TNT worked to block in the car, one person ran back inside the home. The driver then backed into an armored truck, pulled forward and drove through the yard and hit a second TNT vehicle to get away. A patrol officer tried to stop the car as it sped through the neighborhood, but the driver did not stop. Investigators are working to identify that person at this time. Thankfully, nobody was hurt. 

The primary suspect associated with the home, Tevis Wilson, age 29, was found at the property and was safely arrested. He is being taken to the Washington County Jail on charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine, unlawful possession of ammunition by a person prohibited (due to a prior conviction for domestic violence) and hindering prosecution.

We’d like to thank TNT for their assistance, and we appreciate the patience from neighbors in the area while officers worked behind the scenes on this investigation. 

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Vancouver, Wash. – To better assist with the public health crisis of opioid use, the Vancouver Fire Department has launched a new leave-behind Narcan program. Effective May 1, Narcan overdose prevention kits are provided to any individual who receives overdose treatment from Vancouver first responders.  

"The number of emergency medical calls we respond to is skyrocketing with the current opioid crisis,” said Emergency Medical Services Division Chief Robb Milano. “VFD crews administered Narcan 342 times in 2022 and almost doubled to 583 in 2023. Providing this easy-to-use and reliable kit to those at risk of repeat overdose will undoubtedly help us save more lives.” 

Since implementing the program, Vancouver Fire has left behind Narcan kits 25 times. This program was made possible thanks to the Washington State Department of Health, which covers the cost and provides one-for-one replacement of Narcan kits to the department on an ongoing basis. The program helps provide community members with a safe, easy-to-use option to prevent an overdose before responders arrive. 

The use of deadly drugs, including fentanyl, continues to grow in Vancouver. Overdose deaths in the unsheltered population were a key factor behind the City’s homelessness state of emergency declared in Nov. 2023. From January through April, Vancouver Fire responded to 696 medical/EMS calls related to homelessness. While not all deaths can be attributed to overdose, 18 community members experiencing unsheltered homelessness have died since Dec. 2023 – representing a 50% increase from last year.

The City remains committed to providing rapid response and high-quality care to the community and is collaborating closely with state and county public health partners to address the opioid crisis. Narcan is a safe, legal and life-saving medicine that anyone can use. The public can learn where to access free Narcan and how to use it on Clark County Public Health’s website. 

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Correction: The release has been updated to reflect that the murder charge was with a firearm (first bullet) and that the East County Major Crimes Team assisted with this case (last paragraph). 

UPDATE: Court Finds Ramond Lawrence Guilty of Murder

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that a Multnomah County judge delivered a guilty verdict for Ramond Andrew Lawrence, 33, for the shooting death of 24-year-old Teonjenique Elizabeth Lashay Hudson Howard in March 2023.

Deputy District Attorneys Brian Davidson, Tony Dundon, and Elena Langer represented the state at trial, which took place in front of Judge Benjamin Souede from June 5 to June 13, 2024. Judge Soude delivered his verdict on June 13, finding Lawrence guilty of three charges:

• One count of Murder in the First Degree with a Firearm
• One count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon with a Firearm
• One count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm

Lawrence is currently in custody in Multnomah County pending sentencing, which is scheduled for August 30, 2024, in front of Judge Souede. 

In addition to members of the Portland Police Bureau who responded to the incident, the DA’s Office thanks the members of the East County Major Crimes Team who assisted with this case, including officers and detectives with the Port of Portland Police Department, Gresham Police Department, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, and Oregon State Police.

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Original Message (8/2/2023)

DA Mike Schmidt Announces Grand Jury Indictment of Ramond Lawrence in March Homicide Case

Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt today announced that a grand jury indicted Ramond Andrew Lawrence, 32, on three charges related to a recent homicide in Northeast Portland:

1. Murder in the First Degree with a Firearm
2. Unauthorized Use of a Weapon with a Firearm
3. Felon in Possession of a Firearm with a Firearm

On March 15, 2023, officers from the Port of Portland Police Department and the Portland Police Bureau responded to a shooting at the Embassy Suites hotel, located at 7900 NE 82nd Avenue. The East County Major Crimes Team was activated to conduct an investigation.

Upon review of the evidence provided by law enforcement, Deputy DA Brian Davidson presented the case to a Grand Jury, which returned a true bill of indictment on July 27. The charges Lawrence was indicted on relate to the death of victim Teonjenique Elizabeth Lashay Hudson Howard. The investigation is ongoing in relation to the second victim.

Lawrence is currently in custody at the Multnomah County Inverness Jail, and his next court appearance is scheduled for August 24. 

A charging instrument is only an accusation of a crime. Lawrence is innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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Vancouver, Wash. – City Council will hold its second Council Community Forum of the year from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 24 at Firstenburg Community Center, 700 N.E. 136th Ave. Vancouver. The forums are held throughout locations around the community several times per year. Community members are invited to meet their City Councilors, share their experiences and ideas, and bring questions or concerns to participate in small roundtable discussions. 

All community members are welcome to attend. No RSVP or registration is required. If someone desires interpretation services or accommodations with a disability, please contact the City Manager’s office at 360-487-8600 or cityinfo@cityofvancouver.us.

View all Council agendas and minutes.

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The Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Albany, Linn County is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places.

Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation recommended the property’s nomination at their February 2024 meeting. The National Park Service—which maintains the National Register—accepted the nomination on May 20, 2024. 

The Cumberland Presbyterian Church was constructed in 1892 and enlarged in 1917 by and for the congregation of Mt. Pleasant Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The property is locally significant under National Register Criterion C as an excellent example of a Queen Anne style church. Queen Anne architectural design was not commonly used in churches. Cumberland Presbyterian is extensively decorated with shingles, ornate mouldings, frieze boards, sunbursts, rosettes, and colored glass windows. After a lengthy community effort, in 2021 the church was moved three blocks east of its original location. Before, during and after the move, extreme care was taken to preserve the structure and its character defining architectural features. The building is now operated as the non-profit Cumberland Community Event Center.

The Cumberland Presbyterian Church is one of 23 individually listed historic properties in Albany. The National Register of Historic Places was established as part of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. 

More information about the National Register and recent Oregon listings can be found online at www.oregonheritage.org (listed under “designate”).

The Malmgren Garage in Talent, Jackson County is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places.

Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation recommended the property’s nomination at their March 2024 meeting. The National Park Service—which maintains the National Register—accepted the nomination on May 9, 2024. 

The Malmgren Garage was constructed in 1924 for Theodore and Frederika Malmgren. Theodore Malmgren was a southern Oregon physician and one of the first doctors in southern Oregon to purchase an automobile so he could provide patient care throughout rural Jackson County.

The property is locally significant under National Register Criterion A, in the area of Commerce, for its association with the commercial development of Talent and the community’s expanded economy in the years after World War One as the result of the development of the Pacific Highway and increased reliance on private automobiles that replaced train travel.

The Malmgren Garage is also significant under Criterion C, in the area of Architecture, as an exemplar of its type. The Malmgren Garage reflects the simple utilitarian garage building designs developed to respond to the shift toward automobile transportation that occurred in the early 20th century.

Restored and rehabilitated following damage resulting from the Almeda Fire in 2020, the Malmgren Garage retains the original material and exterior finish of its characteristic concrete walls, its auto-related deep setback from the public right of way, and the false front typical of the modest commercial designs of Talent’s downtown.

The Malmgren Garage is one of five individually listed historic properties in Talent. The National Register of Historic Places was established as part of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. 

More information about the National Register and recent Oregon listings can be found online at www.oregonheritage.org (listed under “designate”).

The Dallas Downtown Historic District in Polk County is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places.

Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation recommended the district’s nomination at their February 2024 meeting. The National Park Service—which maintains the National Register—accepted the nomination on May 24, 2024. 

The Dallas Downtown Historic District is listed in the National Register of Historic Places because of its local significance in the area of commerce under National Register Criterion A for its association with broad patterns of history and its representation of the economic development of the city of Dallas. Near the center of the historic district is the Polk County Courthouse (completed in 1900), a building that exemplifies an era when agriculture and timber led to Dallas’ unprecedented economic vitality.

The Dallas Downtown Historic District is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places because of its local significance in the area of architecture under National Register Criterion C for its reflection of commercial building design, technology, style, and form over a nearly century-long period of development. As a collection, the buildings in the district reflect the evolution of commerce in Dallas’ downtown core from some of the earliest permanent construction in the 19th century through the arrival of modernism in the mid-20th century.

The Dallas Downtown Historic District contains 43 total resources: 33 contributing, 8 noncontributing, and 2 previously listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The period of significance for the district is 1870 – 1955. The contributing buildings in the district demonstrate historic trends in commercial construction, with representatives from each key development period reflecting a range of downtown building designs, styles, forms, and functions.

The Dallas Downtown Historic District is one of four individually National Register listed properties in Dallas, Oregon. The National Register of Historic Places was established as part of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. 

More information about the National Register and recent Oregon listings can be found online at www.oregonheritage.org (listed under “designate”).

Coos County, Ore. 11 June 24- On Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at 7:10 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Hwy-101, near milepost 228, in Coos County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Ford Windstar, operated by David Joseph Babb (54) of Coos Bay, left the roadway for unknown reasons, struck a tree in the southbound ditch, spun, and came to rest on its roof.

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

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

OSP was assisted by Haruser Fire and ODOT.

# # #

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 13, 2024
Media Contact:
Seth Gordon: communications@employ.oregon.gov

Employment Department Announces Weekly Benefit Amounts for Unemployment Insurance and Paid Leave Oregon

Salem, Ore. — Today, the Oregon Employment Department announced the 2024-25 minimum and maximum weekly benefit amounts for Unemployment Insurance (UI) and Paid Leave Oregon.

By law, the department calculates the minimum and maximum benefit amounts once a year. These calculations are based on Oregon’s State Average Weekly Wage and are generally effective from July 1 through June 30 of the following year. The State Average Weekly Wage increased from $1,269.69 to $1,307.17.

The minimum weekly benefit amount is the lowest amount the program will pay a claimant for each week they claim benefits, and the maximum benefit amount is the most the program will pay, regardless of income.

2024-25 Unemployment Insurance and Paid Leave Oregon weekly benefit amounts

Unemployment Insurance: Minimum weekly benefit amount $196;  Maximum weekly benefit amount: $836
Paid Leave Oregon: Minimum weekly benefit amount $65.36;  Maximum weekly benefit amount: $1,568.60

Unemployment Insurance

Starting June 30, 2024, the minimum weekly benefit amount for new Unemployment Insurance claims will rise from $190 to $196 per week, and the maximum weekly benefit amount will rise from $812 to $836 per week. This increase only affects claims filed June 30, 2024, or later. People who file new Unemployment Insurance claims before June 30 will continue to receive the same benefit amount.

This is an increase of 3.0%. The minimum weekly benefit amount is 15% of the State Average Weekly Wage, and the maximum is 64%. During the most recent quarter, 9.3% of recipients received the minimum weekly benefit amount, and 27.7% received the maximum.

For Unemployment Insurance, the weekly benefit amount is usually 1.25% of what a claimant earned during their “base period,” which is roughly the first 12 of the 15 months before the date they filed their claim.
Visit unemployment.oregon.gov to use OED’s UI benefits calculator.

Paid Leave Oregon

For Paid Leave Oregon, the minimum weekly benefit amount is 5% of the State Average Weekly Wage, and the maximum is 120%. Starting Sunday July 7, 2024, the minimum weekly benefit amount for new Paid Leave benefit years will rise from $63.48 to $65.36 per week, and the maximum weekly benefit amount will rise from $1,523.63 to $1,568.60 per week. This increase only affects benefit years that begin on or after July 7, 2024, or later. People whose Paid Leave benefit year starts before July 7 will continue to receive the same benefit amount.

Paid Leave Oregon calculates weekly benefit amounts based on how much the employee earns on average in a week compared to the state average weekly wage, so the amount is different for every employee. People who earn lower wages will generally receive a higher percentage of their usual wages in benefits than those who earn higher wages.
Paidleave.oregon.gov has fact sheets and guidebooks on its resources page.

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The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1794. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to language@employ.oregon.gov.

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1794. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a language@employ.oregon.gov.

On June 12, 2024, at 10:28 p.m., deputies from the Washington County Sheriff's Office and officers from the Beaverton Police Department were dispatched to an assault with a weapon near the 15000 block of SW Farmington Road. 

Officers arrived to find an 18-year-old man with a gunshot wound to an arm inside a vehicle. Other occupants of the vehicle ran before police arrived. Responding deputies applied a tourniquet to the victim, who was taken to an area hospital for treatment. 

Detectives from the Violent Crimes Unit (VCU) were dispatched to assist with the investigation while officers searched the area for the other occupants. During the search, deputies found a rifle discarded in bushes nearby. 

Detectives learned the suspect was 20-year-old Mario Galindo, of Beaverton, and known to the victim. Galindo was located and arrested by detectives this afternoon. Investigators determined that while negligent, the shooting was unintentional. Galindo was lodged in the Washington County Jail for assault in the third degree and reckless endangering another person. 

Oregon City officials are involved in the second round of their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts, and are looking for community involvement.

The City Commission reconfirmed DEI as one of their priorities during the last goal setting retreat, with the ultimate objective of creating a community, and a workplace, that’s safe and welcoming to all. The result was the City reengaging with a DEI consulting firm tasked with multiple objectives.

“This work isn’t about including someone simply because of their identity,” said Lamont Browne with Triangle Advising Group. “This work is about making sure no one is excluded simply because of their identity.”

In addition to a staff workgroup that has already been formed and met at the end of May, the City is looking to reactivate the Community DEI Task Force that was created during the first round of work in 2022. 

The group will pick up where they left off prior, continuing to provide the residents’ perspective on the community experience. They will also work hand-in-hand with the staff workgroup to facilitate enacting the City’s DEI action plan in a timely fashion.

Members who were on the DEI Task Force before are encouraged to continue their work, while additional residents are being recruited to apply to join as well. The commitment will include bi-monthly in-person meetings, with additional meetings possible as the work progresses. 

Anyone interested in taking part in the efforts, or who would like to learn more, are encouraged to send an email with the subject line “Community DEI Task Force” to HR@orcity.org or Lamont@TriangleAdvisingGroup.com. Residents can also learn more at www.orcity.org/DEI.

The following information is in reference to a death investigated by the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office. This investigation is related to a Vancouver Police-involved shooting on June 8, 2024 in Vancouver.

This individual died on 06/08/2024 in Vancouver, WA.

The name of the decedent: Sashchenko, Vadim V  Age: 43 years

The decedent was a resident of (city/state): Vancouver, WA

The opinions listed on the death certificate are as follows:

Cause of death:  Multiple gunshot wounds of the torso

Manner of death:  Homicide

How the injury occurred: Shot by other person(s)

Place of injury: Sidewalk of public street

Reports and records of autopsies or postmortems shall be confidential as per RCW 68.50.105. No additional information is available for release from the Medical Examiner’s Office. Refer all other inquiries to Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

Media release issue date: 06/13/2024

SEATTLE (June 12, 2024) – On Tuesday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the City of Sherwood
will lead a tour of the former Frontier Leather Tannery site that will benefit from a $5,000,000 Brownfields
grant investment from the EPA. Grant funds will be used for site clean up, as well as to develop a Public
Participation Plan and to conduct community engagement activities.
 

The cleanup site operated as a tannery from 1947 to the late 1990s. A lead‐acid battery manufacturer also
operated in a building at the site from 1956 to 1972. The site has been vacant since the tannery closed. As a
result of the tannery and lead‐acid battery manufacturing operations that took please, the site is
contaminated with heavy metals.
 

EPA’s Brownfields grants help transform once‐polluted, vacant, and abandoned properties into community
assets, while helping to create good jobs and spur economic revitalization in overburdened communities.
 

WHO:
 EPA, Regional Administrator Casey Sixkiller
 City of Sherwood, Mayor Tim Rosener
 

WHAT:
Presentation at City Hall followed by tour of cleanup site to benefit from EPA Brownfields grant funding.
 

WHERE:
Presentation at City Hall, 1st Floor Community Room, 22560 SW Pine St., Sherwood, OR 97140
Cleanup Site Visit, Meet at Southwest Corner of 14647 SW Oregon St., Sherwood, OR 97140
See attached event location map and details on page 2
 

WHEN:
Tuesday, June 18, 10 a.m.
 

RSVP TO:
Jason Kelly, kelly.jason@epa.gov

Salem – The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) has fined a Grants Pass roofing company $86,149 for workplace safety violations, including repeatedly failing to safeguard workers from fall hazards that could seriously injure or kill them.

The division cited GB Roofing LLC following an inspection of a job site in Eugene where work was being done to replace the roof on a retirement home. The inspection was conducted under Oregon OSHA's prevention-based emphasis program addressing workers exposed to fall hazards.

Employees were working on the roof without fall protection, according to the inspection. They were exposed to a potential fall of about 20 feet to the ground. GB Roofing had violated a rule requiring employers to ensure that fall protection systems are provided, installed, and implemented where employees are exposed to a hazard of falling six feet or more to a lower level.

This was the third time since May 2022 that GB Roofing violated fall protection requirements. Oregon OSHA issued a penalty of $84,996 for the third-repeat violation.

Under the Oregon Safe Employment Act, workers have a right to a safe and healthy workplace, and employers must maintain safe and healthy workplaces.

In the construction industry, falls are one of the leading causes of death.

“Employers must provide fall protection to employees who are working at heights,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “Providing such protective systems is not an option. It is an essential requirement for keeping workers safe while getting the job done. To repeatedly fail to address the safety of workers first serves only one purpose: to further increase the risk of injury or even death.”

GB Roofing was also cited for failing to provide eye protection to employees who were exposed to flying particles from the use of pneumatic staplers. It was a serious violation carrying a penalty of $1,153.

During the inspection, the company corrected the violations identified by Oregon OSHA.

The total penalty issued against GB Roofing included a standard penalty reduction based on the small size of the company. Under Oregon OSHA’s rules, penalties multiply when employers commit repeat offenses.

Employers have 30 calendar days after receiving a citation to file an appeal.

In addition to its enforcement activities, Oregon OSHA offers employers free resources to help improve workplace safety and health. These resources include the division's Fall Protection Suite of online video training courses and its A-to-Z topic page about fall protection. The Fall Protection Suite includes courses addressing fall protection fundamentals, construction, roofing, and ladder safety.

Employers are encouraged to use free resources – available now from Oregon OSHA and involving no fault, no citations, and no penalties – for help protecting their employees:

Consultation services – Provides free help with safety and health programs, including how to control and eliminate hazards, and hands-on training

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Field offices
• Online
• Email: consult.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

Technical staff – Helps employers understand requirements and how to apply them to their worksites

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Online
• Email: tech.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

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About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

SALEM, Ore. - In 2007, the documentary "This is War" captured the harrowing experiences of an Oregon National Guard unit deployed to Iraq, where they faced some of the war's heaviest fighting. As the 20th anniversary of the 2004 deployment approaches, it's a time to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of these soldiers and the successes and struggles they've encountered since then.

"This is War" follows the journey of the Oregon National Guard's 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, known as the "Grim Reapers," during their deployment to Iraq. The film provides an intimate look at the challenges and dangers these soldiers face as they navigate the complexities of war.

Gary Mortensen, President of Stoller Wine Group and the filmmaker behind "This is War," was inspired to create the documentary after witnessing the experiences of National Guard soldiers who leave behind their families, jobs, and more to serve their country. Mortensen's goal was to shed light on the sacrifices made by these men and women and to honor their bravery in the face of adversity.

In an interview, Mortensen reflected on the film's impact and the journeys of the soldiers it portrayed.

"The 20th anniversary of the deployment depicted in 'This is War' is an important reminder of the resilience and dedication of our National Guard members," he said. "Since the documentary was released, many of these soldiers have experienced both triumphs and challenges."

The documentary captured moments of intense combat, camaraderie, and the soldiers' profound sense of duty. It also highlighted the toll that war takes on individuals and their families and the importance of community support in times of need.

As we mark two decades since the deployment depicted in "This is War," it serves as a tribute to the sacrifices made by the men and women of the Oregon National Guard and all those who have served their country. It reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring legacy of those who answered the call to duty in the face of adversity.

Watch the documentary here: https://vimeo.com/956192350

                                                                               -30-

Released video interview: https://dvidshub.net/r/6527no

Released photos:

240407-A-FS713-5913 Gary Mortensen pauses for a photo at the Stoller Family Winery in Dayton, Ore., April 7, 2024, after conducting an interview to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the deployment of the Oregon National Guard unit he depicted in the film "This is War".

240407-A-FS713-2762 Gary Mortensen pauses for a photo with Oregon National Guard public affairs officer Maj. Chris Clyne at the Stoller Family Winery in Dayton, Ore., April 7, 2024, after conducting an interview to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the deployment of the Oregon National Guard unit he depicted in the film "This is War".

June 13, 2024

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Substance use disorder recovery infrastructure gets $13 million boost from Opioid Settlement Board

OHA will administer allocations recommended by State Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment & Recovery Board (Settlement Board) is directing $13.08 million toward expanding and strengthening the state’s recovery community centers and recovery housing.

The Settlement Board approved an Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission (ADPC) proposal to improve access to recovery community centers and housing by providing $11.75 million to establish centers in counties highly impacted by overdoses, yet with the least access to recovery services, including:

• $2 million to the Gorge Recovery Center in Wasco County.
• $2.36 million to the Bay Area First Step Recovery Center in Curry County.
• $2.39 million to the Painted Horse Recovery Center in Douglas County.
• $5 million for recovery centers in Josephine and Klamath counties, to be identified by the ADPC Recovery Subcommittee, in collaboration with OHA and relevant partners.

The allocation also includes $500,000 to Oxford House for personnel support, and $830,000 for the expansion of culturally specific and youth services in existing recovery community centers throughout the state.

The funding was awarded to OHA, which will administer the allocations. The Settlement Board’s decision can be viewed in a recording of its June 5 meeting here.

“The Settlement Board is excited to support recovery services across the state,” said Settlement Board Co-Chair Annaliese Dolph. “This investment prioritizes high-need communities lacking access to supports for people in recovery, another step toward an adequate continuum of care in Oregon.”

Prior to awarding any funding, OHA must engage the partners listed in the ADPC proposal and provide a proposed timeline and implementation plan to the Settlement Board for approval no later than Sept. 1, 2024.

Since July 2021, the State of Oregon has reached agreement on national lawsuits against several companies for their role in the opioid crisis. Through these agreements, nearly $600 million will be awarded to Oregon over the course of 18 years. Settlement funds from opioid manufacturers, distributors and pharmacies are divided between the State of Oregon (45%) and local jurisdictions (55%).

The state’s share is deposited as it becomes available into the Opioid Settlement, Prevention, Treatment and Recovery (OSPTR) Fund. This fund is controlled by the 18-member OSPTR Board.

Local jurisdictions receiving settlement funds (those with populations greater than 10,000) decide how their funds are used. Cities and counties are required to report to the Oregon Department of Justice annually on how they have allocated their funds.

For state and local spending details from Fiscal Year 2022 – 2023, please refer to the Oregon Opioid Settlement Spending Report: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREVENTIONWELLNESS/SUBSTANCEUSE/OPIOIDS/Documents/opioid-settlement-report-fy-22-23.pdf

OSPTR Board allocations to date

Throughout the current fiscal biennium that ends in June 2025, about $91.2 million will be deposited into the OSPTR Fund. Prior to the Recovery allocation, the OSPTR Board made the following allocations:

• $27.7 million to the nine Federally Recognized Tribes in Oregon – this is equivalent to 30% of all funds anticipated this biennium. This 30% set-aside will continue throughout the life of the fund as additional settlement payments are deposited.
• $4 million to develop a unified and evidence-based state system for collecting, analyzing and publishing data about the availability and efficacy of substance use prevention, treatment and recovery services in Oregon as required by 2022 House Bill 4098.
• $13.7 million to the Save Lives Oregon Harm Reduction Clearinghouse to distribute naloxone and other life-saving supplies to qualified entities.
• $13.7 million to build Oregon’s workforce capacity for primary substance use disorder prevention.

The OSPTR Board will next consider additional investments in treatment; research and evaluation; and emerging issues.

To learn more about Oregon’s opioid settlement funds, visit oregon.gov/opioidsettlement.

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On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, Lincoln City Police arrested 53-year-old, Daniel Ryan Stuebgen, of Lincoln City at his place of business, Happy Trails Feed and Tack & U-Haul Neighbor Hood dealer, located at 2150 SE Hwy 101, Lincoln City. Mr. Stuebgen was arrested on charges of Rape 2, Sex Abuse 1 and Sodomy II.

The arrest came after a 10 month long investigation conducted by LCPD’s criminal investigations and patrol divisions as well as the Oregon DHS Office of Training, Investigations and Safety. Mr. Stuebgen is suspected of sexually assaulting a 12 year old child during the summer of 2023 at Happy Trails Feed and Tack. During the investigation, it was learned that Mr. Stuebgen was also residing at the business location.  

If you have any information on this case please contact Det. Charles Lane at the Lincoln City Police Department, 541-994-3636. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: June 13, 2024

Third suspect arrested in local mail theft network

Salem, Ore. — Felony Crimes Unit detectives today arrested another suspect as part of a two‑year mail theft investigation. Since the initial March 25 arrest of Ross Benjamin Sierzega and the subsequent April 15 arrest of Brett Todd Regimbal, detectives have been following through all available leads to dismantle the network of mail theft crime in the Salem-Keizer area.

The investigation led detectives to a third suspect in the city of Keizer where this morning, the Salem Police SWAT team arrested Jasson Lewis Ray without incident. With the assistance of the Keizer Police Department, a search warrant was served at Ray’s residence in the 300 block of Kestrel ST N. During the search of the home detectives seized several items in Ray’s possession, including a short-barreled shotgun, a handgun, a rifle, ammunition, and a substance suspected to be fentanyl. Also found at the property were forged documents and a stolen motorcycle. 

Ray, who also had several outstanding warrants stemming from other criminal cases, was lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:

• Felon in possession of a firearm, three counts
• Unlawful possession of a short-barreled shotgun
• Possession of a stolen vehicle
• Criminal possession of a forged instrument

The investigation remains active; however, with Ray in custody, any inquiries into this case must be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

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Note to media outlets: All name spellings contained therein have been verified.

MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University hosts its 2024 commencement on Saturday, June 15 at 10 a.m. on the MacArthur Field. Over 1,237 students are eligible to walk across the stage and graduate, completing a significant milestone in their lives. Nearly 50 percent of Western students are first-generation, meaning they are the first in their families to graduate with a four-year degree.

A first-generation student herself, Western is proud to announce its commencement speaker, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas. Salinas, the daughter of a Mexican immigrant, is one of the first Latinas to represent Oregon in Congress. After putting herself through college, Salinas pursued public service as a congressional aide and policy advisor, as well as an advocate for labor unions, environmental groups, and reproductive rights organizations. In 2017, she was appointed to the Oregon House of Representatives and served through the end of her term in 2022. In the Oregon House of Representatives, she served as House Majority Whip and was the Chair of the House Health Care Committee.

In Congress, Salinas is proud to serve on the House Agriculture and House Science, Space, and Technology Committees, where she crafts policies that will help level the playing field for Oregon farmers and rural communities and create more good-paying, union jobs. As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Mental Health Caucus, she has prioritized making mental health care and addiction treatment more accessible and affordable.

Longview, WA – At 11:21 AM today, the Longview Fire Department responded to a report of a motor vehicle collision involving a minivan that left the roadway, struck a pedestrian, and crashed into an apartment complex. Initial dispatch reports indicated that the pedestrian was unconscious and a victim inside the apartment was trapped. 

The first fire unit arrived at 11:24 AM and observed the minivan inside the apartment, an unconscious patent outside the van in the lawn, a trapped subject between the van and the inside wall of the apartment, and a third patient inside the van. Additional emergency crews and a LifeFlight helicopter were requested. 

The female pedestrian was transported to PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center by Medix ambulance in critical condition. A female occupant of the apartment, trapped under rubble and the vehicle, was extricated by firefighters using chainsaws to cut through the wall and was transported in critical condition by LifeFlight helicopter to PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center. The elderly male driver of the van was transported by Medix ambulance to PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center in stable condition. Due to federal and state privacy laws, specific medical information about the patients cannot be disclosed. 

Residents of the apartment complex were evacuated pending inspection of the building’s structural stability by the Longview Department of Building and Planning. Electrical power to the apartments was disconnected as a precaution. 

This incident is under investigation by the Longview Police Department.  

OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College is hosting NW Cyber Camp, a unique opportunity for high school students to explore the exciting world of cybersecurity – for free. The week-long camp does not require any prerequisites – just a curiosity about computers and a desire to protect them. 

Camp curriculum development is led by Oregon State University cybersecurity experts and designed for students of all skill levels. Instruction includes core concepts in cybersecurity fundamentals, as well as more advanced topics for students with prior experience. 

What will they learn?

• Essential cybersecurity concepts: confidentiality, integrity and availability (C-I-A)
• How to defend against real-world attacks through team simulations and hands-on activities
• Network security, forensics analysis and password cracking 
• Career paths in cybersecurity from industry professionals

NW Cyber Camp runs July 29-Aug. 1, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Holden Industrial Technology Center on the Oregon City campus, 19600 Molalla Ave. Registration requires a completed application, teacher letter of recommendation and completed waivers. For more information and registration details, visit https://nwcybercamp.org/register-for-gencyber-nw-cyber-camp-clackamas-community-college/. 

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APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Shelby Wright (503) 378-2191.

Effective Jan. 1, 2024, the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training will be live streaming all public meetings via YouTube. Meetings will no longer be streamed on Facebook. To view the Applicant Review Committee's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve May 22, 2024, Meeting Minutes

3. Austin Saucier, DPSST No. 65244; METCOM 911
    Presented by Cindy Park

4. Inquiry Closure Memos – Information Only
    Presented by Cindy Park

5. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – July 24, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works, Parks and Lands is coordinating a project to repair and preserve the iconic wooden arch bridge at Moulton Falls Regional Park. The work, to be performed by a contractor, will include minor repairs to maintain the bridge’s structural integrity and refinishing the wood stain to protect the structure from weathering. 

To complete this work, the bridge, a section of trail and the upper parking lot at Moulton Falls Regional Park will be closed beginning July 8. These areas will remain closed for several months, until the project is completed. Currently, completion is anticipated in September, but the construction schedule is weather dependent and subject to change. Updates to the project will be posted at https://clark.wa.gov/public-works/moulton-falls-regional-park. Construction must be completed during the dry season, and was scheduled to keep the park accessible during the Independence Day holiday weekend and reopen for viewing of fall color and spawning salmon. 

While other areas of the park will remain open during construction, including the lower parking lot, trails to Big Tree Creek falls and the Hantwick trail (up to the bridge), parking will be extremely limited. Visitors are encouraged to have an alternative plan for their visit if no parking is available, as no parking is allowed on Lucia Falls Road. Parking on the road creates dangerous conditions for drivers and park users. Vehicles parked on the road or in the road right of way are subject to ticketing and towing. Alternatives include nearby Lucia Falls Regional Park (which does not have water access) and Lewisville Regional Park. 

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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Salem – In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is asking people to be on the lookout for the financial exploitation of seniors. The International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization launched recognition of the day in 2006 to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older people.

Financial abuse can happen to anyone at any time, but seniors are often the target, especially those who live alone or are isolated. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, social isolation, loneliness, and elder maltreatment make seniors an easy target for scammers.

According to the National Council on Aging, approximately one in 10 Americans ages 60 and older have experienced some form of elder abuse. Some estimates range as high as 5 million seniors who are abused each year. The Southern California Center for Elder Justice estimates that financial elder abuse losses are between $2.6 billion to $36.5 billion each year.

Scammers use several tactics to gain trust from seniors to steal their finances. Unfortunately, some of these offenders are the guardians who are responsible for acting in the person’s best interest. Guardians are often a person the senior trusts and is granted control of the person’s assets. Financial abuse or exploitation often occurs when the guardian improperly uses the financial resources of a senior.

“We need to look out for each other, especially our senior population. To do that, people need to be informed and on high alert for financial fraud,” said TK Keen, administrator for DFR. “I encourage friends and loved ones to help their older family members spot scams. Technology allows bad actors to be a constant threat, which is all the more reason to be on alert for potential financial fraud impacting our loved ones.”

Senior financial exploitation can be difficult to identify. Here are six examples to watch for:

• A new and overly protective friend or caregiver, especially if the senior is considering surrendering financial control to the person.
• Fear of someone or a sudden change in feelings about them.
• A lack of knowledge about financial status or reluctance to discuss financial matters.
• Sudden or unexplained changes in spending habits, a will, trust, or beneficiary designation.
• Unexplained checks made out to cash, unexplained loans, or unexplained disappearance of assets (cash, valuables, securities, etc.).
• Suspicious signatures on the senior’s checks or other documents.

If you believe someone is being financially abused, call Oregon’s toll-free abuse reporting hotline at 855-503-SAFE (7233). You can also visit the division’s protect yourself from fraud website for resources to prevent, report, and recover from financial abuse.

Oregon’s Senior Safe Act makes securities industry professionals mandatory reporters for suspected elder financial exploitation. Securities professionals, such as broker-dealers and investment advisors, should use DFR’s file a suspected financial abuse report webpage when they suspect potential financial abuse of an Oregon senior.

DFR’s consumer advocates are always there to help with questions or to file a complaint. You can reach them at 1-888-4894 (toll-free) or email .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. 

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

RELEASE DATE:                  June 13, 2023
CONTACT PERSON:            On-duty PIO
CASE NUMBER:                   24-46902
 

Gresham, Ore.—A traffic crash involving a motorcycle and passenger car resulted in a fatality. Yesterday, at approximately 5:15 p.m., Gresham police officers and medical personnel responded to a report of a traffic collision involving a motorcycle and passenger vehicle at NW Birdsdale Ave. north of Division St. When medical personnel arrived, they treated the motorcycle rider who was alert and communicating with responders. The rider was transported to an area trauma hospital for further evaluation and care. The driver of the passenger vehicle stayed at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. 

Shortly before 8:00 p.m., investigators learned that the motorcycle rider died at the hospital. The crash investigation has been assigned to an East Metro Vehicular Crimes Team (VCT). Speed, impairment and visibility are all factors that will be analyzed during this ongoing investigation.

Anyone who witnessed the collision and has not already spoken with an officer is asked to call the Gresham Police Tip-Line at 503-618-2719.

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Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Planning Commission will hold a work session on climate change planning on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.

With the passage of HB 1181 during the 2023 Washington State legislative session, Clark County is now required to add a climate change element into its Comprehensive Plan. The new climate chapter will include actions the county can take over the next 20 years to improve community resilience, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and benefit overburdened communities that will be disproportionately affected by the compounding environmental impacts and natural hazards due to climate change. This work will be integrated into the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Review project.

The work session is intended as an informational briefing for the Planning Commission on project progress to date and will focus on resilience. The work session is open to the public however there will be no public comment as part of the event.

The meeting will be held in a hybrid format. Attendees can join in person in the sixth-floor training room of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., or virtually via Webex.

The meeting materials and information on how to attend the meeting can be found on the Planning Commission’s meeting page at https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/planning-commission-hearings-and-meeting-notes. A recording of the meeting will also be posted on this webpage for viewing later.

To learn more about the 2025 update and to sign up for project updates, please visit the project website at www.clark.wa.gov/2025update

To learn more about county climate planning, please visit the project website at https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/climate-change-planning.

The county’s Climate Project is being funded by a state grant. The Washington Department of Commerce climate planning grant is supported with funding from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA). The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Information about the CCA is available at www.climate.wa.gov.

ENCOUNTERING BEARS IN YOUR COMMUNITY

Recently, there has been an increase in bear encounters in Oregon communities. Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) urges Oregonians to respect nature and do their part to ensure wildlife, including black bears, and people coexist. 

A bear's strongest sense is smell. This means everything from trash cans to grill drippings can bring them to your property. Bears also have a great memory when it comes to food, which allows them to remember where they have previously found food sources, including trash. Female bears will pass this knowledge down to their young. Because of this great memory and knowledge sharing, intentionally or accidentally feeding bears can negatively affect multiple generations of bears.

In addition to bringing unwanted visitors, feeding bears (intentionally or accidentally) can be harmful. Wildlife have specialized diets that coincide with seasonal changes. Food provided by humans can negatively impact their health, lead to conflict and safety issues with people, and in some cases, have fatal consequences for animals. For the sake of Oregon's wildlife and their health, do not feed them.

Living responsibly with black bears is possible and it's up to everyone to do their part to keep people safe and bears wild. Below are some tips to help keep your community and local black bears safer.

• Never feed or approach bears. Feeding bears, intentionally or unintentionally, will cause them to associate people with food. It is also against the law in Oregon (ORS 496.730).
• Secure food, garbage and recycling. Ensure your trash and dumpsters are secure by using commercially available garbage cans, metal bars over dumpsters, fully enclosed trash storage, or by storing garbage inside. Take trash out immediately before pick-up, not the night before. Wash garbage cans with bleach to reduce their smell. Food waste is one of the strongest attractants for black bears and allowing bears access could qualify as illegal feeding if appropriate steps are not taken to prevent the issue.
• Remove bird feeders in bear habitat when bears are active. Birds have plenty of naturally available food sources during all seasons which is why some species migrate in winter. Bears can be food rewarded from bird seed and suet in feeders leading to habituation and food conditioning, destroyed birdfeeders, and public safety concerns.
• Never leave pet food outdoors. This practice can easily attract bears and other wildlife, putting both pets and wildlife at risk.
• Clean and store grills after each use.
• Alert neighbors and ODFW to unusual bear activity such as continued sightings during daylight hours, lack of wariness around people or pets, etc.

A community effort is vital to keep your neighborhood and wildlife safe. One person who feeds or attracts bears, intentionally or not, increases the risk for the entire neighborhood. Find out more about living responsibly with black bears at https://myodfw.com/articles/help-keep-bears-wild.

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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Vancouver, WA – June 18th, 2024 – The Clark College Foundation is proud to announce the establishment of the Judy Lee Norris Endowed Scholarship Fund, a new opportunity designed to support students pursuing their GED® or High School+ diploma through Clark College.

The scholarship was established thanks to an initial six-figure donation from the immediate family of Judy Lee Norris in memory of her dedication and hard work. This scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burden for students striving to achieve their educational goals. Students pursuing their GED® or High School+ Diploma, Washington state’s unique opportunity for residents to complete a high school diploma using previous course work earned in high school, will be among the primary beneficiaries of this scholarship. Additionally, the funds may cover GED® testing fees, which can be a significant expense, and provide scholarships for students who choose to continue their education in a trades program at Clark College.

Dr. Karin Edwards, President of Clark College, expressed her gratitude, stating, “We are deeply honored by the Norris family’s generosity. This scholarship will open doors for many students, helping them achieve their educational and career aspirations.”

Adam Norris, representing the family, remarked "My mother’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education.  Without a high school diploma, mom's early career was a series of physically demanding factory jobs.  Mom's intelligence and hard work helped her earn a GED® from Clark College and it set her on a new career path that provided both economic security and professional satisfaction.  She applied her extraordinary work ethic to all of her pursuits and optimizing the value of her GED® was no exception.  As a family, we wanted to share the gift of education with those in similar circumstances as a tribute to our late mother.”

The public is invited to contribute to this fund to help more students achieve their educational goals. To make a gift, visit bit.ly/NorrisGift or call Clark College Foundation at 360-992-2301.

Clark College Foundation (CCF) is an independent, self-funded, and self-governed nonprofit that partners with Clark College through philanthropy and asset investment. The Foundation was established on July 25, 1973, as a 501(c)(3) organization. Since its inception, more than $85 million has been provided to Clark College.

For more information, please contact:

Levi Nelson

Communications Manager

Clark College Foundation 

Email: lnelson@supportclark.org

Portland Fruit Tree Project (PFTP) is excited to unveil its latest initiative, "PDXFruitTreeTips," a free text alert system designed for fruit lovers looking to explore the bounty of Portland's urban orchards. This service provides subscribers with tips on ripe fruit and foraging, when to pick produce, and how to make the most of it, all tailored to Portland's unique climate, and will be launched and live on July 15th. 

"Give a fig about picking fresh fruit in PDX? Opt into our fun text and get tips about what's ripening, how to know when to pick it and how to use it," encourages Heather Keisler Fornes, Executive Director of Portland Fruit Tree Project. "Our fruity information will guide you through the season in our unique PacNW climate." 

Subscribers to PDXFruitTreeTips will receive weekly alerts during harvest season and bi-weekly alerts in the winter, ensuring they're always in the loop about the latest fruit and edible plants to discover and forage in their area. The alerts will include valuable insights on ripe fruit varieties, optimal picking times, and link to more info and creative recipes to turn nature's bounty into delicious treats. 

Example Texts:

• Not sure what that round spotted fruit is? Apple? Pear? Good chances it's an Asian pear - learn about how to pick, prepare, and partake!
• Currants are current - time to poke around some bushes. Find out more about what's edible here.
• Get one over on the squirrels and collect some green walnuts. Learn more here about how to harvest and eat 'em!

Think it's too early for ripe apples? Think again! Find out how to tell if that apple tree you've been eyeing is ripe for picking & what they're good for!

"Our goal with PDXFruitTreeTips is to empower individuals to connect with nature, reduce food waste, and embrace the joy of exploring the seasons with fresh, locally-grown fruit," Keisler Fornes added. "Whether you're a seasoned forager or just starting out, our text alerts will provide the guidance and inspiration you need to make the most of Portland's abundant fruiting plants." 

To subscribe to PDXFruitTreeTips and embark on your fruit-picking journey, sign up at www.portlandfruit.org, and ensure a fruitful experience throughout the season.

This Programming is Presented by Welcome to PDX Portland, OR and WA Real Estate Agent and Portland Nursery.

About Portland Fruit Tree Project: Portland Fruit Tree Project is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing equitable access to healthful food and strengthening communities through urban agriculture. By empowering neighbors to share in the harvest and care of city-grown produce, PFTP helps to reduce food waste and promote food security in the Portland area. The 15 year strong nonprofit is embarking on a bountiful season of urban orchard workshops and harvests, and diving into fruit preservation in a big way in 2024.

Finalist Laura Conroy has withdrawn as a candidate for the position of Fairview City Manager. The Fairview City Council will continue to work with Jensen Strategies to reopen the recruitment process for the next City Manager.  As this process may take a few months, the City Council will be looking at options for interim leadership at their next meeting on June 19.

• Middle Market: Optimism soars to 68% and key growth indicators reach six-year high
• Small Business: Mood and plans hover near pandemic-era lows, even as recession fears subside 

LAKE OSWEGO, Ore., (June 13, 2024) – Umpqua Bank, a subsidiary of Columbia Banking System, Inc. (Nasdaq: COLB), today released the findings of its annual Business Barometer, an in-depth study into the mood, mindset and strategic priorities of small and middle market businesses across the U.S. For the first time in its six-year history, the study shows a widening gap between the outlook and plans of middle market companies and small businesses. Middle market optimism and key growth indicators have surged to six-year highs, while small businesses proceed cautiously as they manage persistent impacts of higher costs for goods and capital.

Since 2019, middle market companies (defined as $10M--$500M in annual revenue) are consistently more optimistic and ready to make a variety of strategic investments than smaller businesses. However, the difference between the two sectors’ optimism—which had been fairly narrow—widened sharply in 2024. This year, 68% of middle market companies rate the economic outlook as excellent or good compared to just 29% of small businesses.

According to Umpqua Bank President Tory Nixon, middle market companies are poised to accelerate strategic investments and plans after a season of caution, while small businesses are even more inclined this year to hold steady as margins remain tight.

“It’s a tale of two economies right now,” said Nixon. “While businesses of all sizes have proven resilient during a remarkable period of uncertainty and disruption, middle market companies have adapted especially well to the economic pressures of the past couple years. They are poised to move forward with the most confidence we've seen since our study began.”

Notable findings from this year’s Business Barometer include the following: 

Growing Middle Market Optimism Sparks Plans for Growth

• Nearly 7 in 10 middle market companies rank the current economy favorably, surpassing a majority for the first time and 22 points higher than last year. In the next 12 months, more companies than in any previous study expect demand for products and services to increase (70%) and greater profitability (60%). They are also more likely than ever to invest in digitization (88%), finance expansion plans (65%), expand their real estate footprint (60%), add employees (54%) and consider acquiring (52%) or merging (43%) with another business.

Economic Divide Widens Between Middle Market and Small Businesses

• In contrast to the middle market, small businesses are less optimistic than they’ve been since 2020. Though fewer list recession as a top concern this year (33%), inflation concerns spiked again after declining in 2023. Fewer than ever expect increased demand for goods or services (43%), and expectations for profitability growth also dipped to the lowest level in four years (38%). Small businesses’ current mood is reflected in more limited plans for the next 12 months: fewer than in the last three years are likely to add employees (28%), finance expansion (25%), expand their real estate (23%), make significant changes to products or services (33%), or invest in tools that protect payment systems (40%) and improve efficiency (57%).
• “Middle market companies have the scale and capital to grow in today’s market. More of them are growth-minded than last year and investing in AI, automation and sophisticated tools to safeguard their operations and customers,” said Richard Cabrera, Head of Commercial Banking at Umpqua Bank. “With fewer resources and tighter margins, smaller enterprises have shifted more of their attention to managing the prolonged financial challenges and risks associated with elevated interest rates and inflation.”

Middle Market Companies Are Rapidly Embracing Generative AI

• Nearly 8 in 10 middle market companies report either moving forward quickly to implement the technology across their organization (42%) or for at least a few specific tasks or functions (36%). They are also prioritizing adding personnel with generative AI experience, with 86% likely to hire for the skillset in the next 12 months. Investing in AI is also a top strategic priority (56%), which ranks first across 10 other investment options. A strong majority believe AI is having, or will have in the next 12 months, a significant impact on profitability (70%), acceleration of new products (69%), productivity (72%) and their competitive advantage (71%).
• Small businesses are also adopting generative AI, albeit more slowly, with 28% prioritizing broad implementation or more targeted use across a few tasks.

A Majority of Middle Market Companies Bring Manufacturing and Supply Chains Back to U.S.

• While supply chain impacts of the past few years have eased significantly for all businesses, most middle market companies continue looking for new routes and partners. In the last 12 months, 51% have moved manufacturing or supply chains back to the U.S., continuing the onshoring acceleration noted last year. Another 73% with operations abroad are likely to move or shift them elsewhere in the year ahead.

Middle Market Companies Safeguard Against Cyber-Attacks and Real-Time Fraud

• Cybersecurity continues to be a top priority for middle market companies: 41% were the victim or target of a cyberattack in the last year. More than 8 in 10 are likely to invest in financial tools to protect payments systems in the next 12 months. More than 6 in 10 now leverage instant payment technology. Of those, 93% have or are planning to implement corresponding safeguards to protect against real-time fraud. Instant payment adoption rates for small businesses stand at 43%, with 66% of these having already implemented or planning to implement corresponding safeguards in the next year.

Small Business Delays, Middle Market Accelerates Decision-Making Ahead of Election

• Small and middle market businesses are responding differently to the upcoming congressional and presidential elections in November. Nearly half of middle market companies say they are expediting key decisions before elections, with only 13% delaying them. Meanwhile, small businesses are more likely to delay (23%) than accelerate (14%) key decisions, with more than half indicating no impact on decision-making.
• Businesses choosing to delay decisions, regardless of size, are most likely to postpone long-term strategic plans (63%), expansion plans (40%) and hiring (39%).

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Methodology

On behalf of Umpqua Bank, DHM Research conducted an online survey of 1,200 owners, executives, and financial decision-makers at U.S. small and middle market businesses during April 22—May 2, 2024. Of middle market respondents, 22% are minority-owned businesses, while 19% of small business respondents are certified woman-owned and 15% minority-owned. The margin of error is: ±2.8%. 

About Umpqua Bank 
Umpqua Bank is a subsidiary of Columbia Banking System, Inc. (Nasdaq: COLB), and a premier regional bank in the western U.S., with offices in Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Colorado. With over $50 billion of assets, Umpqua Bank combines the resources, sophistication and expertise of a national bank with a commitment to deliver superior, personalized service. The bank supports consumers and businesses through a full suite of services, including retail and commercial banking; Small Business Administration lending; institutional and corporate banking; equipment leasing; and wealth management. The bank’s corporate headquarters are located in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Learn more at: umpquabank.com.

Vancouver, Wash. – The number of whooping cough cases in Clark County in 2024 is more than four times as high as the same time last year. Most of the 60 cases identified so far this year are among people who have never been vaccinated against whooping cough.

Whooping cough – or pertussis – is a serious respiratory illness that spreads easily from person to person when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. Whooping cough can be especially serious for babies younger than 1 year, who are at greatest risk for severe complications. About 1 in 3 babies younger than 1 year old who get whooping cough need hospital care.

“Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect not only yourself but the babies and young children around you from getting whooping cough,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County health officer and Public Health director. “Many babies who get whooping cough are infected by older siblings, parents or caregivers who don’t know they have it.”

Early symptoms of whooping cough are similar to those of a common cold: runny or stuffy nose, a mild cough, and a low-grade fever. However, one to two weeks after symptoms begin, people can develop violent coughing fits that leave them gasping for air afterward. Babies with whooping cough may not cough but instead have life-threatening pauses in breathing, gagging or gasping.

Children 4 years and younger account for more than half of the whooping cough cases in Clark County so far this year. Among them, 78% have never received a vaccine that protects against whooping cough. Among all cases in Clark County, 62% have never received whooping cough vaccination.

People who are vaccinated may still be able to get whooping cough, but their illness is usually less severe.

Whooping cough vaccination
Whooping cough vaccination is recommend for all babies, children, preteens and pregnant women. And adults who have never received a Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) vaccine should get one.

Babies need three doses of DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis) vaccine, given at 2, 4 and 6 months old, to build protection. They then receive two additional doses as young children – one at 15-18 months old, the second at 4-6 years – to maintain that protection.

Preteens should get one dose of Tdap when they’re 11-12 years old to boost their protection. And pregnant women should get a Tdap booster during the third trimester of every pregnancy. This helps to protect the baby from whooping cough in the first few months of life.

In Clark County, only 56% of children 19-35 months old are up to date on their whooping cough vaccination.

Children attending school in Washington are required to be fully immunized against several vaccine-preventable diseases, including whooping cough. Children entering kindergarten are required to have five doses of DTaP. 

In Clark County, about 89% of kindergartners were up to date on their whooping cough vaccination in the 2023-24 school year. About 8% of kindergartners had a personal, religious or medical immunization exemption for the whooping cough vaccine.

SALEM, Ore. — After two completed sessions in central and northeast Oregon, the state is reminding communities of four remaining open houses about the state’s new community wildfire risk reduction programs. Next week’s scheduled events are in Central Point and Grants Pass. These events will offer opportunities to learn about new defensible space and home hardening standards, as well as the draft wildfire hazard map. 

The resource-fair style open houses are being held in the communities that have some of the greatest levels of wildfire hazard within the wildland-urban interface. Each open house will begin with a short presentation and introductions, but visitors may stop in at any point during the event to get questions answered about the draft hazard map and associated community wildfire programs. 

Representatives from multiple agencies will be present to have one-on-one or small group conversations to help people understand Oregon’s statewide wildfire programs.

• Oregon Department of Forestry representatives will address questions on administrative rules and hazard zone assessment appeals.
• Oregon State University representatives will address questions on wildfire hazard science, statewide data sources, and updates to the draft hazard map made over the last two years.
• Oregon State Fire Marshal representatives will address questions regarding defensible space standards, code adoption process and implementation.
• Building Codes Division representatives from the Department of Consumer and Business Services will address questions on home hardening construction standards, related code provisions, and implementation.
• Division of Financial Regulation representatives from the Department of Consumer and Business Services will address questions on home insurance market and requirements of insurers under Senate Bill 82 (2023).
• Wildfire Programs Advisory Council members will address questions on statewide policy direction for wildfire programs and council business.

Meetings will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on the following dates:

• Central Point—Monday, June 17, Jackson County Fairgrounds, Mace Building, 1 Peninger Rd., Central Point, OR 97502
• Grants Pass—Thursday, June 20, Grants Pass High School, 830 NE 9^th St., Grants Pass, OR 97526
• Klamath Falls—Monday, June 24, Klamath County Event Center, Hall #2, 3531 S 6^th St., Klamath Falls, OR 97603
• The Dalles—Monday, July 1, Oregon Military Department Armory, 402 E. Scenic Dr., The Dalles, OR 97058

Find more information on ODF’s wildfire hazard webpage.

To subscribe to information related to updates on the statewide wildfire hazard map, visit the ODF website.

Background: The 2021 Legislature passed Senate Bill 762 that required the Oregon Department of Forestry to develop and maintain a comprehensive statewide map of wildfire risk that included wildland-urban interface boundaries and five fire risk classes by June 30, 2022 in collaboration with Oregon State University. After the initial version of the map was rescinded August 4, 2022, ODF and OSU began gathering feedback and incorporating it into future mapping efforts. 

The 2023 Legislature passed Senate Bill 80 that made several changes to the map including changing the name from a “risk” map to a “hazard” map, reducing the number of hazard classes from five to three, and changing the appeal and notification requirements. 

Written comment or questions about any aspect of the implementation of Senate Bill 762 and Senate Bill 80 may be submitted by email at any time to ehazardmap@odf.oregon.gov">odf.wildfirehazardmap@odf.oregon.gov.

[Beaverton, Ore.] – Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon (PRO), a non-profit organization that delivers support to people living with Parkinson’s disease in the Pacific Northwest, is proud to announce Melissa Greer as its new executive director. A long-time employee instrumental to the nonprofit’s growth, Greer assumes the leadership role on August 16.

PRO’s board of directors in May approved Greer’s selection by a unanimous vote. Greer will oversee an organization serving 15,000 households in Oregon and Southwest Washington affected by Parkinson’s disease through counseling, workshops, exercise classes, and more than 50 support groups held across the region. All services are aimed at improving the quality of life for people living with a Parkinson’s diagnosis and the lives of their families and caregivers. PRO has grown steadily in the last decade, employing 11 people and supporting over 200 volunteers in offices located in Beaverton, Eugene, and Bend. Through an ambitious rural outreach initiative, PRO has extended support for people with a Parkinson's diagnosis in communities such as Roseburg, Pendleton, Klamath Falls and Coos Bay.

“The board of directors is thrilled to partner with Melissa Greer, one of our own, to shape the next chapter at PRO,” Board of Directors Chair Justin N. Smith said. “Her care of our clients and development and stewardship of the programs they depend on is impressive. The Parkinson’s disease community can rest assured that the excellence they have come to expect from PRO will continue."

Greer will replace Holly Chaimov, PRO’s outgoing executive director and the organization’s first full-time employee. Chaimov is retiring after leading the organization for 25 years, building its team, services, and geographic reach. Board members credit Chaimov for the nonprofit’s growth, which has, for years, added about 100 new households a month to its service roster. Chaimov was a chief architect of PRO’s service offerings, including a toll-free helpline – 1-800-426-6806 – as well as case management and counseling, support groups, workshops, and a comprehensive collection of fitness classes that have included yoga, tai chi, dance, and no-contact boxing. Each fall, PRO hosts four fundraising walks, known as Sole Support for Parkinson’s, that draw thousands of people of all ages and abilities to Portland, Eugene, Bend, and Vancouver, WA.

Chaimov served as a mentor for Greer, PRO’s program director. Greer has a background in public health and nutrition, and at the start of her tenure at PRO traveled across Oregon to work with clients. Greer, who has served PRO and its clients for a decade, became a major champion of the organization’s rural outreach initiative and helped make it a success. 

Board members selected Greer because of her knowledge of the organization, her commitment to its mission, and her passion for the community it serves. Smith said Greer inherits a cohesive staff, effective programs, and a growing reach, and the board wanted to maintain that momentum with a leader who shared the nonprofit’s client-centered values and supported its culture of care and excellence. 

About Parkinson’s Disease:

Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that causes unintended movements, including shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Symptoms get worse over time, and can also include mental and behavioral changes, fatigue, depression, sleep difficulties, and memory loss. Research shows that Parkinson's disease should be actively managed not only with medication but also with exercise and social connections. At least 1 million Americans live with the disease. Doctors diagnose about 90,000 cases of Parkinson's disease a year, mostly in people over age 60. 
 

About Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon:

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

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Date: Wed, June 26, 2024

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: https://www.scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_june_26_wildfire/

What’s it like to work on the front lines of a wildfire? 
How and why are wildfires changing in the Northwest?

This talk will jump into both of these topics, while also expanding on how you can prepare for a future of fire in the Northwest. 

Amanda Monthei spent four years working as a wildland firefighter—including two years as a US Forest Service hotshot (a highly-trained team) based in the Mt. Hood National Forest. Her work gave her a first-hand glimpse at the way PNW ecosystems are shifting and how both wildfire and climate change play a critical role. This talk will give you an inside glimpse at what this unique job entails, as well as the challenges facing wildland firefighters right now. 

She’ll also address why our temperate rainforests no longer feel like the wildfire-safe haven they once were. Believe it or not, fire belongs in these “wet side” ecosystems! But while infrequent, these fires tend to be catastrophically large and fast-moving – take the Labor Day fires of 2020 as an example of how these ecosystems can burn. Explore why this relationship is expected to grow more tenuous as climate change brings more extended drought and other climactic changes to the Northwest. 

Amanda Monthei left firefighting in 2019 and found a niche career in writing about wildfire, including for outlets like The Washington Post, The Atlantic, Deseret News, Patagonia, and NBC News. She also produces and hosts a podcast, Life with Fire, which examines our relationship with wildfires and how we can better coexist with them. She lives in Bellingham, WA. 

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.

Marion County Fire District No. 1 is inviting the public to be a part of a traditional “Push-In” ceremony on Tuesday June 18^th at 8:30 AM.  Push-In Ceremonies are a long tradition in the Fire Service celebrating the arrival of new apparatus and bringing the community together.  Please join us to celebrate and participate in the blessing of Ladder 31 and Heavy Brush 31 at Station 1, 300 Cordon Rd NE in Salem Oregon.  Contact us at info@mcfd1.com for more information.

Portland Oregon, June 13, 2024 – Rocky Butte Farmers Market (RBFM), Portland’s dog & kid friendly neighborhood market with a block party vibe, had more than 750 market-goers for opening day June 1 at its new more visible and convenient location on the border of the Roseway and Madison South neighborhoods at NE Siskiyou, between 80th & 82nd Avenues near Glenhaven Park.

Saturday, June 15 will feature free, live entertainment from The Swing & Standards Band from 10AM-Noon. The band plays standards, swing, show tunes, and romantic melodies with melodic & romantic music being their specialty - along with classic songs with heart and soul.

RBFM is open every Saturday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. through September 28. The iconic urban neighborhood market features affordable locally grown foods and artisan products, as well as weekly children's activities, live entertainment, giveaways, market bingo and more. The Market began as a pop-up in the Madison South neighborhood during the summer of 2019, became a monthly market in 2021, and expanded to a weekly market in 2022 and 2023. 

Market organizers are thrilled to announce new and returning vendors, offering everything from local produce, meat & flowers, to pottery and handcrafted goods.

“One of our major goals during the offseason was to relocate the market to make it more central and accessible for neighbors and those coming from further away,” said Benjamin Cutler, co-founder and board President. “Our site selection team succeeded thanks to a new partnership with PBOT! We are excited to recreate the magic we cultivated with our vendors and volunteers at the highly visible location on Siskiyou Street beside Glenhaven Park. We’re thrilled to celebrate local food, crafts and community as we continue to grow RBFM!” 

Well-behaved dogs on-leash are allowed in all areas of the market, which offers fresh water and treats at the info booth for pups. Fun and educational children’s programming is offered weekly and is suitable for all ages. The first 25 market-goers ages 3-13 who stop by the Kids Patch each get a FREE $5 token to spend during their visit! 

Rocky Butte Farmers Market proudly accepts Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), matching up to $20 per market day with Double Up Food Bucks through a partnership with the Farmers Market Fund. 

Learn more about the market, this year's vendors and the weekly entertainment schedule at www.rockybuttemarket.com, and follow market happenings via Instagram and Facebook at @rockybuttefm.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: June 12, 2024

Additional juvenile in custody

Update 06/12/2024 | 8:00 p.m.

Today, Salem Police Felony Crimes Unit detectives arrested another juvenile in the animal abuse case. 

A 15-year-old boy was taken into custody at his residence in northeast Salem on the following charges:

• Aggravated animal abuse, first-degree
• Tampering with evidence
• Interfering with a peace officer

The juvenile was transported to the Marion County Juvenile Department. The case remains an active investigation. Anyone with information about the case can call the Salem Police Tips Line at 503‑588‑8477.

All further inquiries concerning any of the juvenile arrests made to date must be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

# # #

Originally published 06/05/2024 | 3:15 p.m.

Juveniles involved in animal abuse case referred to detention

Salem, Ore. — In the early morning hours of Friday, May 10, officers responded to the report of a cat that was shot and killed in the 2200 block of Lee ST SE. A surveillance system recorded the incident showing several suspects involved. 

The case received much attention from the community after the cat’s owner released a video of several suspects with their pet. The recording showed one of the individuals shooting the cat several times.

Salem Police Felony Crimes Unit detectives have identified two local teens connected to that incident. The male juveniles, each 17 years of age, were referred to the Marion County Juvenile Department on Tuesday, June 4, each charged with first-degree aggravated animal abuse. One of the teens was also referred on the charge of evidence tampering.

Detectives have been investigating this incident and interviewed multiple individuals. However, the suspect who shot the animal remains unidentified and the weapon has not been recovered.

Initially, some tips were received, and detectives again ask for the public’s help to identify the primary suspect. Those with information about the case can call the Salem Police Tips Line at 503-588-8477.

# # #

News outlets: This media release is available in Spanish here.

Vancouver, Wash. – Northeast 68th Street between Northeast 10th and Northeast 14th avenues will be closed to through traffic beginning June 24 for construction associated with the Northeast 68th Street Sidewalk Project. The project’s goal is to make the area safer for pedestrians by adding sidewalks and marked pedestrian crossings. Northeast 68th Street between Highway 99 and Northeast St. Johns Road serves a densely populated residential neighborhood with an average daily traffic of 3,288 vehicles. It currently has few sidewalks. 

The closure is scheduled for 45 working days, starting June 24. Construction is weather dependent, and closure start and end dates are subject to change. Updates to the closure schedule will be posted on the project webpage. 

During the closure, local access will be accommodated for residents within the closure area and for emergency vehicles. 

Travelers should choose an alternate route during the closure and follow posted detour signage. The detour will take travelers onto Northeast 79th Street and Northeast St. Johns Road on the north side of the project area, or Northeast 17th Avenue and Northeast Minnehaha Street on the south side of the project area. 

More information about the project, a detour map and project updates are available at clark.wa.gov/public-works/northeast-68th-street-sidewalk.

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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Mr. Fields was located safe by law enforcement.

The Vancouver Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating an 83-year-old vulnerable man, Charles Fields, who was last seen near the 12400 block of SE McGillivray Blvd at about 1115 hours headed westbound on foot. Charles resides in a memory care facility and should be able to identify himself but will likely have difficulty finding his way home. Charles is a black male, who is between 5’8-6’0 and between 175-200lbs with brown eyes and gray hair. He was seen wearing a black golf hat, a black “Old Spaghetti Factory” jacket and a white, long sleeve shirt, and jeans.

Please call 911 if you locate Charles Fields.

Vancouver, Wash. – Stormwater Partners of Southwest Washington is proud to announce the winners of the fourth annual Students for Clean Water Video Contest. The contest, for middle and high school students in Clark County, encourages students to think about their impacts on and connections to local streams. Students are asked to show their creativity by producing short videos about their connection to water or ways to protect water. This year more than 65 students from 12 Clark County middle and high schools submitted videos. A panel selected nine winners from 35 finalists. Five $500 first place and five $100 honorable mention prizes are awarded to: 

• “Protecting water in our community”, long video category
  • First place: “Water Powered World” by Andrew G. Locke
  • Honorable mention: “Stormboy Saves the Day” by Greyson Halstead and Bohdan Moskovitz
• “Protecting water in our community”, short video category
  • First place: “Dangers of Car Oil” by Oliver Gael Murray and Gavin Lee Parks
  • Honorable mention: “Keeper of the Stream” by Elle Lutz and Fern Rucker
• Community storytelling category 
  • First place: “Celilo Reservoir” by Olivia Droubay
  • Honorable mention: “Clean Water for All” by Joseph Leon Jr.
• “Clean water for all” category
  • First place: “iTuna” by Alexander Fry and Anikait Antal
  • Honorable mention: “PFAS in Vancouver” by Isabel McCauley, Neal Langford, Molly Pendleton, Lauren Knight and Isis Barca
• People’s choice category
  • First place: “Clean Water for All” by Joseph Leon Jr.
  • Honorable mention: “How to Keep Our Water Clean” by Malosi William Yeager and Gage Charles Smith

Winning videos will be shown before the City of Vancouver’s Friday Night Movies in the park on July 19 at Nikkei Neighborhood Park. The videos will also be featured on Stormwater Partners social media profiles and can be seen at stormwaterpartners.com/video-contest. 

Local businesses Consor Engineering, MacKay Sposito, Olson Environmental, Otak, and Northwest Watersheds LLC sponsored the $500 first place cash prizes. Nonprofits Fourth Plain Forward, iUrban Teen, Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership, Queer Youth Resource Center and Watershed Alliance of SW Washington sponsored the $100 honorable mention cash prizes. The Liberty Theater in Camas supported the contest by running promotional videos before movie screenings. 

Stormwater Partners of Southwest Washington is a coalition of local jurisdictions and organizations including Clark County and the cities of Battle Ground, Camas, La Center, Ridgefield, Vancouver and Washougal. Learn more at stormwaterpartners.com. 

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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RELEASE DATE:               June. 12, 2024
CONTACT PERSON:         On-duty PIO
CASE NUMBER:                 24-24103

Gresham, Ore.—Missing 23-year-old, Brendan Bolsinger was located yesterday and returned home. Brendan left his home in the 1000 block of NE 193 Ave., shortly after 3:00 p.m. He was located in Portland by a TriMet employee near SW 5 Ave. and SW Yamhill St. Gresham Police thanks everyone who shared Brendan’s photograph and helped find him so he could be safely returned home.

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Wednesday, June 12, 2024-Woodland, WA-Woodland Public Schools is thrilled to announce the appointment of Taylor Adrian as the district’s new Athletic Director. With a passion for excellence and a commitment to fostering a positive sports culture, Adrian brings a wealth of experience and dedication to our district. 

In addition to currently teaching physical education at Vancouver Public Schools, Adrian earned his administrative credentials and completed his administrative internship under an athletic director, fueling his desire to lead an athletic program. “Becoming an Athletic Director has been a dream of mine for some time,” Adrian told the interview committees. Additionally, his coaching experience showcases his ability to develop successful programs and foster a positive team environment.

When Adrian saw the Athletic Director position become available at Woodland, he jumped at the chance to apply, “The position offers the opportunity to get the best of both worlds: teaching and operating as the district’s athletic director,” he said. “Now, I get to continue my love of teaching students and the responsibility of managing the athletic department at Woodland High School. How much better does it get than that? Plus, the facilities here are absolutely beautiful. Who wouldn't want to view high school athletics in such a grand setting?”

Adrian initially found the idea of being an athletic director after participating in sports during high school in east Portland where he participated in track where he found his passion for long-distance running. After qualifying for State in high school in both the 1500m and 3K events, he competed for Concordia College at the NAIA level. Following college, he qualified and raced in the New York and Boston marathons. His passion for sport led him to realize he would love the chance to guide student athletes as a career, “We all have crummy days at school and work, but when practice time arrives, you get to cast away all the other stress and worries and simply focus on improving yourself and contributing to the team,” he said. “Now that I get to focus the majority of my efforts on helping student-athletes remain eligible and compete athletically for WHS, this job is a dream come true.”

Adrian impressed the interview committees with his “can-do” attitude and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure all student-athletes can participate. Transportation challenges many school districts in the region with districts unable to secure transportation for all teams to away games. In his recent role, Adrian took matters into his own hands by obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in order to qualify to drive a school bus to athletic events and away games. His proactive approach demonstrates his dedication to finding solutions and ensuring that all student-athletes have equal opportunities.

Adrian sees a lot of potential for developing and growing Woodland’s vibrant athletic teams. “I plan to set goals with each coach, monitor frequently how I can be most supportive, and then fade into the background during contests to put the focus of our athletic programs on our student athletes and their efforts,” he said. “With the return of middle school sports this upcoming school year, we also have the opportunity to establish connections with our youth programs as they prepare for high school athletics.”

Adrian’s family includes his wife, Laura, and their two children, Brooks (age 4) and Lainey (age 2). “My wife keeps our family running while I’m away for long days coaching,” said Taylor. “I would be entirely lost without her.” Laura currently works at PeaceHealth SW in Vancouver in a variety of departments including Emergency and Labor & Delivery. “Laura has taken care of many new parents and their newest little additions who call Woodland home,” said Talyor. Brooks is growing up to be just like his father, playing all the sports available to a kid his age including t-ball, basketball, soccer, and swimming.

While Adrian and his family currently reside in the Felida Neighborhood in Vancouver, they plan to relocate to Woodland within the next year or two. “It has always been a dream of mine to raise my kids in the community that I'm teaching and coaching in,” said Adrian. “My wife has been checking Redfin daily, and I hope it is in the cards as our kids enter elementary school in a few years.”

Adrian looks forward to his new position and expressed his gratitude to all those involved in the interview process. “I want to thank Superintendent Riley, Principal Pearson, Principal Lindsay, and the Woodland Community for trusting me with the position of WHS athletic director,” he said. “There is no place I would rather be than serving our students and I want to entire Woodland Community to know how appreciative I am of the opportunity. I will always advocate for the betterment of our kids, even if that means making unpopular decisions. I plan to serve in this role for as long as the Woodland SD and community will have me. Thank you and Go Beavs!”

Woodland Public Schools received 17 applicants for the Athletic Director position. “We narrowed our choices down to three exceptional candidates, said Assistant Superintendent Asha Riley who will be taking over as the district’s Superintendent in July.  “Four interview panels –  students, administrators, coaches, and community members – interviewed each candidate, and Taylor Adrian emerged as the frontrunner based on strong recommendations from each committee.”

“Please join us in welcoming Mr. Adrian to Woodland Public Schools,” said Riley. “His leadership will undoubtedly elevate our athletic programs and create memorable experiences for our student-athletes.”

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(Salem) – Easton Menear, age 4, Raya Menear, age 1, and Quincy Menear, age 10 months, went missing with their parents Hanna Jewel Hamilton and Christian Michael Menear from Corvallis on April 23. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division believes that they may be at risk and is searching for them to assess their safety.

ODHS asks the public to help in the effort to find Easton, Raya and Quincy. Anyone who suspects they have information about the location of them or Hanna Jewel Hamilton and Christian Michael Menear should call 911 or the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). 

It is possible that they are in the greater Portland Metro Area. 

Name: Easton Menear
Pronouns: He/him
Date of birth: July 24, 2019
Eye color: Brown
Hair color: Brown

Name: Raya Menear
Pronouns: She/her
Date of birth: Aug. 1, 2022
Eye color: Brown
Hair color: Light brown

Name: Quincy Menear
Pronouns: He/him
Date of birth: Nov. 07, 2023
Eye color: Blue
Hair color: Brown

Washington County Sheriff Cases #50-24-7084, #50-24-7085 and #50-24-7086
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2023964

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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PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal jury in Portland found the operator of a local chain of check cashing businesses guilty today for his role in a multiyear scheme to obstruct the IRS from collecting payroll and income taxes on construction workers’ wages.

David A. Katz, 48, of Tualatin, Oregon, was found guilty of conspiracy to defraud the United States and filing false currency transaction reports with the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).

“This defendant’s efforts to help others circumvent their tax responsibilities was thwarted thanks to the dedicated criminal investigators at the IRS. Business owners who abuse the system and help others hide taxable income will be held accountable,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

“Our tax system is based on the honesty and integrity of taxpayers who understand that taxes fund the common good. However, there are some, like Mr. Katz, who choose to line their own pockets at the expense of their friends and neighbors,” said Special Agent in Charge Adam Jobes, IRS Criminal Investigation (CI), Seattle Field Office. “Mr. Katz’s conviction by a jury of his peers emphasizes the fact that no one is above paying their fair share, and shows that CI is committed to investigating those who choose to undermine their communities.”

According to court documents and trial testimony, from January 2014 through December 2017, Katz, the compliance officer of Check Cash Pacific, Inc., conspired with others in the construction industry to defraud the United States by facilitating under-the-table payments to construction workers. To carry out the scheme, sham construction companies were created and used to cash more than $177 million in payroll checks at different Check Cash Pacific locations. The cash was used to pay construction workers under-the-table, with no taxes being withheld or reported to the IRS.

Construction companies would notify Katz when they planned to bring checks into one of his check cashing locations so that Katz could ensure he had enough cash on hand to complete the transaction. Hundreds of thousands of dollars of payroll checks were cashed daily and Katz was aware that at least one of his co-conspirators used a false name and social security number.

For his role in the scheme, Katz received a 2% commission on each transaction which, in total, amounted to more than $4 million. Over the course of their conspiracy, Katz and his co-conspirators prevented the IRS from collecting more than $44 million in payroll and income taxes due on the cash wages.

On December 2, 2021, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a five-count indictment charging Katz and five others with conspiracy to defraud the United States. Katz was charged in the same indictment with four counts of filing false currency transaction reports with FinCEN.

Conspiracy to defraud the United States is punishable by up to five years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years’ supervised release. Filing false currency transaction reports is punishable by up to 10 years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years’ supervised release.

Three of Katz’s co-conspirators have pleaded guilty to felony charges stemming from their roles in the conspiracy. Two are awaiting sentencing and the third was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison. Another co-conspirator is awaiting trial and one is a fugitive.

This case was investigated by IRS-CI. It was prosecuted by Robert S. Trisotto and Andrew T. Ho, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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OREGON VALUES AND BELIEFS CENTER

TYPOLOGY AND COMMON GROUND

Oregon isn't simply one thing or another: Deserts, beaches, mountains, forests.
Oregonians aren't either.

Building on past research from DHM’s Oregon Values and Beliefs Studies, Policy Interactive, and Pew Research, the 2023 Typology Study continues a tradition of high-quality opinion research to engage all Oregonians about the important values we share and embrace.

Rather than adhering to traditional ideas of what (or where, or who) divides us, the OVBC 2023 Typology Study clusters Oregonians into “neighborhoods” of shared values and beliefs. The study offers a clearer understanding of our common priorities and lays a stronger foundation for collaboration, even when we disagree.

Social scientists describe values as individual or cultural mores that set standards and guide behavior by way of a mental compass. But even values regarded as stable may change gradually over time. Values research gives us a window into how, when, why, and to what extent those values evolve. This type of research offers a sense of our commonalities and differences. It also identifies the building blocks for accountability, trust, reciprocity, respect, solidarity, and collaboration in our lives and more broadly, in our community.

Oregon Values and Beliefs Survey

The Typology Topic Summaries page provides an introduction to the findings from the full sample of the survey, segmented by the topics below. Each topic has its own page with general observations and response percentages for the full sample to questions on that topic. The included topics are as follows:

      - Economy and Jobs

      - Environment and Land Use

      - Government and Politics

      - Success and Wellbeing

      - Religion and Faith

A document with response percentages for the full sample for every question in the survey can be found attached to this newswire post. 

An excel file with response percentages stratified by demographic characteristics can be found attached to this newswire post.

Typology of Oregonians: 8 Clusters, or “Neighborhoods” of Shared Values and Beliefs

The Cluster Analysis Overview provides an overview of the cluster analysis used to identify 8 clusters of shared values and beliefs among Oregonians, including basic methodology, how to read, interpret, and understand the tables that display the 8 clusters' responses to the 21 A/B statements used in the cluster analysis, as well as the tables themselves.

Rather than groups characterized by typical qualities thought to divide us (age, geography, political party), cluster analysis was used to group Oregonians based on their answers to broader questions about values, beliefs, and a few key policy issues. 

An iterative process was used to determine a combination of questions and clusters that are the most statistically powerful and accurate in clustering or grouping Oregonians based on values and beliefs. 

While the 8 clusters may tend to lean one way or another, politically, each cluster responds to at least one question in a way that defies its typical placement on a conservative-to-liberal scale.

The Cluster Profiles page gives a down-to-earth explanation of what cluster analysis is, answers to some FAQ's, and an introduction to the profiles of the 8 clusters. The profiles (linked below) include characteristics that are prevalent among each group, such as age group, education, urban/rural, likelihood of voting, etc. Links to the 8 profiles:

       - Cluster 1: Party-Aligned Progressives

      - Cluster 2: Dispassionate Liberals

      - Cluster 3: Alienated Young Left

      - Cluster 4: Green Rural Independents

      - Cluster 5: Diverse and Devout

      - Cluster 6: Disengaged Traditional Conservatives

      - Cluster 7: Free-Market Libertarians

      - Cluster 8: Modern Conservative Loyalists

The Common Ground and Areas of Dissonance page highlights, from among the 21 Typology questions, areas that represent strong common ground, moderate common ground, and areas of dissonance (or what we don't agree on). 12 of the A/B statements represent strong common ground; 4 represent moderate common ground; and 5 represent areas areas of disagreement.

An excel file with response percentages stratified by the 8 clusters can be found attached to this newswire post.

ALSO ATTACHED: an excel file of word-for-word open-ended responses, sortable by demographic characteristics (including County), and with contact information for participants who indicated they are willing to be contacted by a journalist.

Recognizing this is a massive amount of complex information, if you and/or several members of your staff would like to schedule a brief video call to run through the project, please reach out! We can verbally explain and answer questions to get people up to speed pretty quickly. Call, Email, or Text Amaury Vogel at the included phone or email address.

The Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC), Northwest ADA Center and Disability Rights Oregon will co-host a free Lunch and Learn webinar series in July in recognition and celebration of the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The informational series will launch on Tuesday, July 9.

“The webinar series not only recognizes the crucial breakthrough that the Americans with Disabilities Act represents but provides an opportunity to share information and advance equity for people with disabilities in Oregon,” said Nakeshia Knight-Coyle, director of the Office of Aging and People with Disabilities in the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS).

The series will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pacific Time on Tuesdays throughout July. Members of the public are welcome to participate.

Topics by date are:

• July 9: History and success of the Olmstead Case
• July 16: Spotlighting the talents of Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing communities
• July 23: History of the ADA, current wins and ongoing efforts
• July 30: Boards and Commissions in action: information, awareness and impacts 

Register in advance through the event webpage on Zoom. 

More information about the series will be shared on the Oregon Department of Human Services ADA event web page.

The series will be accessible to people with disabilities and will be translated into Spanish. Captioning and American Sign Language interpretation will also be provided. For questions about accessibility for the webinar series, or to request an accommodation, contact OregonDisabilities.Commission@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

About the Oregon Disabilities Commission:

The Oregon Disabilities Commission is charged by state statute to advise the Oregon Department of Human Services, the Governor, the Legislative Assembly and appropriate state agency administrators on issues related to achieving the full economic, social, legal and political equity of individuals with disabilities. ODC also acts as a coordinating link between and among public and private organizations serving individuals with disabilities.

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

The county has extended the application deadline to 5 p.m. Friday, July 12.

The terms are three years, and all of the positions begin immediately. Two of the positions will end March 31, 2026; one ends April 30, 2026; and one will end Aug. 31, 2026.

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 three to four 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. 6th 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.

To learn more about the commission visit www.cityofvancouver.us/tc.

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) announces the approval of more than $7 million to fund 59 homes, as part of the ongoing effort to narrow the racial wealth gap in homeownership. Broadly, Black homeownership in Oregon is consistent with nationwide trends that show lagging progress. OHCS remains committed to moving our state forward on closing the racial wealth gap, and today gets closer to that reality.

“Awarding these funds just a month after announcing the first round of funding awards in May to build 157 new homes shows the benefit of moving to a rolling application process,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “This new approach allows developers to begin construction sooner, accelerating the delivery of affordable homeownership opportunities. We insist on a better housing future for our state to ensure progress that represents all communities.”

Of the new awards, Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) will receive $1.6 million to develop Abbey Lot Townhomes in the Albina District of Portland. SEI, along with their development partners Community Development Partners and Proud Ground, is seeking to make a lasting impact on the historically displaced community affected by the rapid gentrification of Portland. 

As part of a larger effort to reconnect Black families to the Albina District, the eight 3-bedroom townhomes and a supporting outreach strategy seek to bring families who have been displaced back to the North Portland neighborhood. Homeowners will have access to services through SEI’s Community and Family Programming, including energy assistance, housing assistance, and access to SEI’s in-school services.

"At Self Enhancement, Inc., we believe that the opportunity for homeownership shouldn't be a privilege; it should be a foundation,” said Trent Aldridge, SEI chief program officer. “That's why we are excited to advocate, support, and invest in homeownership in traditionally underserved communities. Owning a home is about more than just having a roof over your head. It's about stability, generational wealth creation, and a sense of belonging. It's about putting down roots and knowing that your success is being invested in your own future."

The remainder of this round of funding will go toward two Central Oregon projects. Thistle & Nest will use the funds to create 38 new affordable two- and three-bedroom homes within the larger Woodhaven development in Bend. Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity is also receiving funding to provide additional support to the Timber Cottages development in Redmond.

More information about each project can be found in the June Housing Stability Council packet.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)  

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

Photos courtesy of Thistle & Nest 

Thistle & Nest will receive $5 million from Oregon Housing and Community Services to build affordable homes in the Woodhaven development in Bend. The homes pictured here are part of the project’s Phase 1.

12 de junio de 2024 

El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregón otorga $7 millones para crear alrededor de 60 viviendas a precio asequible 

SALEM, Ore. – El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregón (OHCS, por sus siglas en inglés) anuncia la aprobación de $7 millones que serán utilizados para crear 59 nuevas viviendas en el estado, como parte de los esfuerzos para reducir la brecha de riqueza racial en cuanta quienes son dueños de viviendas. En términos generales, la propiedad de vivienda por parte de afroamericanos en Oregón es consistente con las tendencias a nivel nacional que muestran un progreso muy lento. OHCS mantiene su compromiso de hacer avances para cerrar la brecha de riqueza racial en nuestro estado, y hoy la agencia se acerca más a esa realidad. 

"El conceder estos fondos tan sólo un mes después de anunciar en mayo que otorgamos la primera ronda de fondos para la construcción de 157 nuevas viviendas demuestra las ventajas del nuevo proceso de solicitud que implementamos", dice Andrea Bell, directora ejecutiva de la OHCS. "Con el anterior sistema donde se entregaban solicitudes una vez al año, los anuncios de fondos de nuevos proyectos se habrían retrasado durante meses. Este nuevo enfoque permite a los desarrolladores de vivienda comenzar la construcción antes, acelerando la entrega de oportunidades para la compra de una vivienda a precio asequible. Insistimos en un futuro mejor en materia de vivienda para nuestro estado, que garantice un progreso en el que todas las comunidades estén expresamente representadas. " 

De los nuevos fondos otorgados este mes, Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) recibirá $1.6 millones para desarrollar Abbey Lot Townhomes en el distrito Albina de Portland. SEI, junto con sus socios communitarios, Community Development Partners y Proud Ground, pretende tener un impacto duradero en la comunidad históricamente desplazada y afectada por el rápido aburguesamiento o gentrificación de Portland. 

Como parte de un esfuerzo más amplio para volver a conectar a las familias afroamericanas con el distrito de Albina, las ocho viviendas adosadas de 3 dormitorios y una estrategia de alcance para ofrecer servicios de apoyo pretenden que las familias desplazadas vuelvan al barrio del norte de Portland.  Los propietarios de las viviendas tendrán acceso a los servicios de la Programación Comunitaria y Familiar de SEI, que incluyen asistencia con los gastos de energía, ayuda para la vivienda y acceso a los servicios escolares de SEI. 

"En Self Enhancement, Inc. creemos que la oportunidad de ser propietario de una vivienda no debe ser un privilegio, sino una base", dijo Trent Aldridge, director de programas de SEI. "Por eso nos entusiasma defender, apoyar e invertir en la propiedad de la vivienda en comunidades tradicionalmente carentes de servicios. Ser propietario de una vivienda es algo más que tener un techo bajo al que refugiarse. Se trata de estabilidad, creación de riqueza para las futuras generaciones y el sentido de pertenencia. Se trata de echar raíces y saber que tu éxito se está invirtiendo en tu propio futuro". 

El resto de esta ronda de fondos se destinará a dos proyectos en la región central de Oregón. Thistle & Nest utilizará los fondos para crear 38 nuevas viviendas a precio asequible de dos y tres dormitorios en la urbanización Woodhaven de Bend. Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity también está recibiendo fondos para proporcionar apoyo adicional al desarrollo Timber Cottages en Redmond. 

Más información sobre cada proyecto se encuentra en el paquete informativo de la junta de junio del Consejo para la Estabilidad de la Vivienda. 

Acerca del Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregon (OHCS)  

OHCS es la agencia de financiación de viviendas de Oregón. La agencia estatal proporciona apoyo financiero y de programas para crear y preservar oportunidades de vivienda a precio asequible y de calidad para los habitantes de Oregón con ingresos bajos y moderados. OHCS administra programas que proporcionan estabilización de la vivienda. OHCS ofrece estos programas principalmente a través de subvenciones, contratos y acuerdos de préstamo con organizaciones locales y proveedores comunitarios. Para obtener más información, visite: oregon.gov/ohcs.   

Foto 
Thistle & Nest recibirá $5 millones en fondos del Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregón para construir viviendas asequibles en el desarrollo Woodhaven en Bend. Las viviendas de la foto forman parte de la primera del proyecto.

The Red Cross Cascades Region responds to several  

multi-family fires. 

[PORTLAND, Ore, JUNE 12, 2024]---In the past week alone, the Red Cross has responded to 17 house fires across Oregon and SW Washington, including 5 multi-family fires. In all, we’ve provided service to 57 people, 20 children and several pets.   

This includes the multifamily housing complex in the 16200 block of Southwest 108th Avenue in Tigard on 6/11/24.  In that case, we helped 10 families including 2 children and 7 animals.   

On disasters like these, we help connect people to services, replace lost medications, and in some cases, offer financial assistance. We have not been asked to set up shelters due to these fires, but we are prepared to in the event of a larger, more widespread event. 

This is a reminder of the importance of checking your smoke alarms to make sure they are in working order and having an escape plan for you and your family. To learn more about how to be prepared, go to RedCross.org. 

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross. 

The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet on Tuesday, June 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The public portion of the meeting begins at 9:35 a.m. This public meeting will be conducted via teleconference.

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/boardagenda_6_25_2024.pdf

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

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HILLSBORO, Ore- The Washington County District Attorney’s Office joined with the Columbia Sportswear Company and the Organized Retail Crime Association of Oregon (ORCAOR) to host the first-ever Washington County Retail Theft Symposium on June 10, 2024.  More than 50 people attended the event on the Columbia Sportswear Company’s campus, including loss prevention personnel, law enforcement officers, and prosecutors.

Presenters covered topics including the scope of retail theft in Oregon, how to form and run robust loss prevention teams, how to properly report these cases to law enforcement, and what type of evidence and investigation are necessary for a successful prosecution.  

Washington County District Attorney Kevin Barton launched the inaugural event to bring loss prevention officials together and to alert potential criminals who target businesses in Washington County. 

“Ensuring our community is safe for businesses, employees, and customers is a priority,” said District Attorney Barton. “We want to send a strong message to businesses that we support them and to criminals that we will prosecute them.”

The Columbia Sportswear Company hosted the symposium. This Oregon company is not immune to retail theft trends and welcomed the opportunity to increase training and facilitate networking opportunities between the various retailers in attendance. 

“Organized retail theft hurts both large and small businesses, so we appreciate all of the help we receive from the Washington County DA’s office and the Organized Retail Crime Association of Oregon,” said Peter Bragdon, EVP, Chief Administrative Officer, and General Counsel at the Columbia Sportswear Company.

ORCAOR also played a pivotal role in ensuring the symposium was a success.

“The Organized Retail Crime Association of Oregon (ORCAOR) was honored to present at the inaugural Washington County Retail Theft Symposium. This event marked a significant step towards enhancing our collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies and retailers to address organized retail crime (ORC) across our state,” said Phillip Smith, Vice President at ORCAOR and Organized Retail Crime Investigator at Fred Meyer.

“We are committed to strengthening these partnerships, uniting law enforcement, retailers, and prosecutors in our collective mission to combat crime. By working together, we aim to make a positive impact on our communities, fostering a safer and more secure environment for all. ORCAOR looks forward to continued collaboration and the development of effective strategies to mitigate ORC and to protect our local businesses and residents.”

District Attorney Barton also works closely with the Oregon-based Organized Retail Crime Task Force in an effort to combat retail theft at the statewide level.

Attendees received shoplifting warning signs created by the district attorney’s office that they can display in their businesses. The district attorney’s office is making these signs available to all interested retailers and has received a high volume of requests. For more information and to submit a request for a sign, visit our website.

District Attorney Barton wishes to acknowledge the following organizations for their participation in this effort: the Columbia Sportswear Company, the Organized Retail Crime Association of Oregon, Fred Meyer, and the Beaverton Police Department. 

NEWPORT, Oregon— Beverly Beach State Park, seven miles north of Newport, will extend its closure through July 31, 2024 due to delays in construction. 

The popular campground and day-use area closed last September for construction. Work included moving power lines underground and replacing aging water lines to help better serve visitors in the future. 

Some of the infrastructure at Beverly Beach is more than 80 years old and presented unexpected challenges and delays. The park is now slated to open Aug. 1, 2024. 

“We appreciate everyone’s patience as we finish park improvements that will enhance the park for future visitors. Welcoming campers is one of our favorite parts of the job so we’re eager to open the gate in August,” said Park Manager Burke Martin. 

The park improvements were made possible with GO Bond funds, a $50 million investment from the Oregon State Legislature for projects at several Oregon State Parks. Learn more about GO Bonds at bit.ly/gobonds

A three-alarm fire at Erica Village apartments in Hazel Dell caused portions of the building to collapse , but no one injured.  

At 4:55 pm, Clark County Fire District 6 crews responded to the fire.  The fire was quickly upgraded to two alarms and eventually to three alarms.  Other agencies were called into assist including Vancouver Fire Department, Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue and Portland Fire and Rescue.  

Fire Chief Kristan Maurer reported, “the fire appeared to start on a second floor balcony and quickly spread to the thrid floor and attic”.  The Clark County Fire Marshal is still investigating to determine the fire's cause.   A total of 6 units were damaged by fire and 18 residents have been displaced.  The Red Cross is assisting those residents.  

The fire was declared under control at 6:25 pm.  It is important to always make sure fires and smoking materials are completely extinguished and not left unattended.  

A three-alarm fire at Erica Village apartments in Hazel Dell caused portions of the building to collapse , but no one injured.  

At 4:55 pm, Clark County Fire District 6 crews responded to the fire.  The fire was quickly upgraded to two alarms and eventually to three alarms.  Other agencies were called into assist including Vancouver Fire Department, Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue and Portland Fire and Rescue.  

Fire Chief Kristan Maurer reported, “the fire appeared to start on a second floor balcony and quickly spread to the thrid floor and attic”.  The Clark County Fire Marshal is still investigating to determine the fire's cause.   A total of 6 units were damaged by fire and 18 residents have been displaced.  The Red Cross is assisting those residents.  

The fire was declared under control at 6:25 pm.  It is important to always make sure fires and smoking materials are completely extinguished and not left unattended.  

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, a unit of the National Park System, has debuted a new self-guided tour of Vancouver Barracks, the first US Army post established in the Pacific Northwest. The tour can be accessed through the NPS App, downloadable on the Apple Store or Google Play. 

Vancouver Barracks was established by the US Army in 1849. In the following decades, it served as a center of the Army’s operations in the Pacific Northwest, and of the local community in the City of Vancouver. This self-guided tour leads visitors along the post’s Officers’ Row and around the Parade Ground, where they will discover stories spanning from the earliest days of the post through World War I.  

“The history of Vancouver Barracks is nationally, regionally, and locally significant,” said Fort Vancouver NHS Curator Meagan Huff. “Understanding the history of this place is so important to understanding our community’s past and the role Vancouver has played in Northwest history. The self-guided format of this tour allows visitors to take the time to absorb these impactful stories.” 

The tour highlights iconic landmarks like the Vancouver Barracks flagstaff, bandstand, and barracks buildings, as well as the stories of people who lived and worked here. Among these, visitors will learn about Irish laundresses like Hannah Hartney, Chinese cook Mick Lai, and the Buffalo Soldiers who served at Vancouver Barracks at the turn of the last century. 

The tour was developed over the course of several months by American Conservation Experience Intern Marie Hashimoto, working with National Park Service staff. “Vancouver Barracks has such a rich, diverse history,” she said. “Throughout my research process, I was constantly uncovering new layers and new perspectives, and I’m excited to be able to share some of those stories in this tour.” 

“Recognizing our annual visitation of one million visitors, we are looking for a full range of opportunities to connect with them,” noted Fort Vancouver NHS Superintendent Tracy Fortmann. “This self-guided tour is user friendly and allows visitors to learn about this historic military post on their own schedule.”  

The NPS App launched in April 2021 and gives the public up-to-date information about every national park from one easy-to-use app. The NPS App helps visitors learn about trails, visitor centers, directions, fees and passes, weather alerts, passport stamp locations, and more. Self-guided tours help visitors learn more about park history. Search “National Park Service” in the iOS App Store and Google Play Store, or go to The NPS App - Digital (U.S. National Park Service to download the app. 

Eugene, OR - Praxis Health is pleased to announce the grand opening of Pearl Street Medical, a new Primary Care location in Eugene, Oregon that will expand our team and provide more high-quality healthcare services for the Eugene & Springfield community. This expansion marks the continued growth of Praxis Health (gopraxishealth.com), Oregon’s largest, independent medical group.  

Pearl Street Medical will officially open to new patients on August 1st, 2024, and will be located at 1835 Pearl St, Eugene, OR 97401. Pearl Street Medical will be our 5th location in the Eugene and Springfield area, whose locations already offer a number of services including primary care, internal medicine, allergy, and endocrinology. 

Pearl Street Medical is focused on providing the highest possible level of compassionate, individualized care. As an organization that is family-owned and operated, we believe in the importance of delivering community-oriented care through accessible services that optimize the health and quality of life for all persons. We recognize that patients’ trust in their healthcare professionals is extremely valuable to clinical practice, ensuring that their personal needs are placed at the forefront. 

Praxis Health is rooted in our local communities and our goal is to remain connected to the people and places as we continue to grow. We promise to continue to deliver outstanding, personalized care to all of our patients while honoring the needs of each community that we serve. For more information about us, please visit our website at PearlStreetMedical.com 

Quote from our Regional Administrator:  

Our commitment to supporting our community drives us to open the new Pearl Street Medical clinic. Since 1997, our founders, Drs. Kirk and Kraig Jacobson, have been at the forefront of community healthcare. They combined practices and expanded facilities to create what is now known as Oak Street Medical Clinic and Oregon Allergy Associates. Recognizing the growing healthcare needs of the community at the time, they made it their mission to support its growth. Recognized as a 5-star medical home for the highest quality care and reducing healthcare costs, we focus on caring for patients through a variety of acute and chronic illnesses with the idealism of community and compassion. 

Now, in 2024, they see the need to act again and help increase access to healthcare in our community. With Pearl Street Medical Clinic, we continue their legacy of commitment and service with the support of Praxis Medical Group, striving to improve the health and well-being of those we serve. 

We welcome all those looking for a new healthcare home.

- Dr. Viet Tran - Regional Administrator

On Wednesday, June 12, at 12:40 a.m., multiple callers to 911 reported seeing flames coming from the roof of a multifamily housing complex in the 16200 block of Southwest 108^th Avenue in Tigard. Due to the number of callers and their descriptions, the call was upgraded to a first alarm to bring additional units and personnel to the scene. Residents began evacuating and alerting their neighbors to leave the building.

First-arriving crews found flames through the third-story roof, and began an exterior fire attack. As additional units arrived, fire crews began an interior fire attack. Due to heavy fire, the call was upgraded to a second alarm for additional resources. Firefighters searched the impacted and neighboring units, confirming all occupants had evacuated. 

Due to a double layer of drywall in the ceiling, firefighters were challenged to reach the fire burning in the attic space. Firefighters worked for fifty minutes to control the fire, and spent two more hours salvaging belongings, extinguishing hot spots, and decontaminating equipment. 

A total of six units were impacted. The Red Cross is supporting fifteen displaced residents, including two children and several pets, to connect with shelter, food, and clothing. One patient was evaluated at the scene for a medical issue unrelated to the fire. A fire investigator is working to determine the cause. TVF&R is grateful for assistance from Lake Oswego Fire Department, Tigard Police Department, King City Police Department, American Medical Response, and the Red Cross for their assistance with this incident. 

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

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Lane County, Ore. 11 June 24- Oregon State Police traffic stop ends in Officer Involved Shooting.

On Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at 4:26 p.m., an Oregon State Trooper conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of River Avenue and State Route 569 (Beltline Highway) in Eugene. During the encounter, the driver exited and attempted to obtain a firearm from the passenger side of the vehicle and a less lethal force option (Taser) was deployed but was not successful. The suspect did not comply with verbal commands and was able to obtain the firearm resulting in the trooper shooting the subject with his department-issued firearm. Emergency medical aid was immediately provided and medical personnel from Eugene-Springfield Fire Department responded; however, the subject was declared deceased at the scene. The trooper was not injured during the incident and has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation by the Lane County Inter-Agency Deadly Force Investigation Team (IDFIT).

Pursuant to the Lane County District Attorney’s Office Deadly Force Plan under Senate Bill 111 of the 2007 Oregon Legislative Session, IDFIT is conducting the investigation with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office assuming the primary role for this officer-involved shooting investigation.  IDFIT is comprised of investigators from the Oregon State Police, Lane County Sheriff’s Office, Eugene Police Department, Springfield Police Department, Cottage Grove Police Department, and Florence Police Department.  Any further information will be released by the Lane County District Attorney’s Office.

UPDATE - JUVENILE LOCATED - On this date with the help of an observant citizen the juvenile was located safe in the city of Vancouver.   

Vancouver Police Department is requesting public's assistance in locating a missing sixteen-year-old teen.  The missing teenager's name is Honnor.  Please be advised that Honnor is a biological male who identifies as a female and goes by the first name of “Crystal.”  

Crystal was last seen at the Vancouver Mall earlier today.  As of approximately 12:53 PM, Crystal's cell phone was found discarded in the area just outside of the Vancouver Mall.  

Crystal was last seen wearing eyeglasses, light pink hooded sweater with words “My pronouns are she/they” inscribed in the front with purple letters, cotton white/blue “joggers” type pants, and black and blue sandals.  Crystal has reddish brown hair down to her shoulders and is also likely wearing diamond stud earrings.  

Crystal is approximately five feet and five inches tall and weighing 110 pounds.  

Crystal is extremely shy and may not feel comfortable speaking to a stranger.  

This is being treated as an extremely suspicious incident and is currently being investigated as a high priority and with all available resources.  

Citizens with any information regarding Crystal's disappearance are requested to call the Vancouver Police Department as soon as possible.  

RELEASE DATE:               June. 11, 2024
CONTACT PERSON:         On-duty PIO
CASE NUMBER:                 24-24103

Gresham, Ore.—Gresham Police is asking for the public’s assistance with locating a missing 23-year-old male, Brendan Bolsinger. Brendan left his home in the 1000 block of NE 193 Ave., shortly after 3:00 p.m. Brendan’s family says he is on the autism spectrum and non-verbal. They are concerned for his welfare while he is unsupervised. Brendan is familiar with TriMet and has been known to wander around Gresham and Portland.

Brendan is described as a white male who is 6 feet tall and weighs 300 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a white t-shirt and gray shorts.

Anyone who sees Brendan is asked to call 911.

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The new board will guide management of the nation’s largest research forest, shaping research, conservation, and economic outcomes

SALEM, Ore – The State Land Board today appointed the first voting members of the Elliott State Research Forest Board of Directors. 

The six ESRF Board members appointed are: 

• Melissa Cribbins of Coos Bay.
• Peter Hayes of Portland. 
• Haley Lutz of Coos Bay. 
• Mike Kennedy of Siletz. 
• Bob Sallinger of Portland. 
• Keith Tymchuk of Reedsport.

Brief biographies of the ESRF Board members are available here.

Many volunteer advisory group members have contributed to advancing and shaping the ESRF over the years, bringing diverse perspectives and commitment to the State Land Board’s vision of a research forest. 

“This has been a remarkable journey toward a remarkable research forest, one that simply would not have been possible without the effort, engagement, compromises, and determination of all those who volunteered their time on past advisory groups,” said Department of State Lands Director Vicki L. Walker. 

Appointment of the ESRF Board will continue to ensure accountability, transparency, and meaningful engagement in operation of the Elliott as a public research forest.  The ESRF Board will guide management of the research forest, with authority to shape research, conservation, economic and social outcomes of relevance at the local, statewide, national, and international level.

The ESRF Board will ultimately consist of seven or nine voting members appointed by the State Land Board and one nonvoting member designated by the ESRF’s lead research entity. DSL will bring additional candidates forward for consideration at a future State Land Board meeting, with the goal of adding additional experience and expertise in areas of forest products or timber operations, research science or research forest management, and Indigenous interests.

The ESRF Board is anticipated to begin meeting later this month. Join DSL’s Elliott State Research Forest email list to receive meeting notices and other research forest updates.
 

About the ESRF Board of Directors: In April 2024, the State Land Board approved a research forest oversight structure that includes appointment of an ESRF Board of Directors. This oversight structure included the creation of a new ESRF Board of Directors that will: 

• Provide advice and make recommendations to the Department regarding planning, operational implementation, fiscal and budgetary matters, research and management, reports, and other matters relevant to the effective administration and oversight of the ESRF.
• Review materials presented by the Department as well as public input, and advance ESRF oversight, advice, and recommendations in a manner that strives to ensure consistency with the ESRF's foundational direction and documents.

About the State Land Board and the Department of State Lands: The State Land Board consists of Governor Tina Kotek, Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade and State Treasurer Tobias Read. Established by the Oregon Constitution in 1859, the Land Board oversees the state’s Common School Fund. The Department of State Lands is the Land Board’s administrative agency, managing the lands and resources that help fund Oregon’s public schools and protecting the state’s waterways and wetlands for the many benefits they provide.

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www.oregon.gov/dsl

June 11, 2024

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA supporting LGBTQIA2S+ youth with list of summer resources

Agency reaffirms commitment to queer young people as school year ends

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is reaffirming its commitment to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, two-spirit, questioning and (+) (LGBTQIA2S+) youth by sharing resources to promote their well-being, safety, security and inclusion.

“It’s so important that youth have access to the supports from families and community organizations that celebrate the rich diversity of their identities,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA.

Since 2022, OHA has celebrated gender and sexual orientation diversity by highlighting resources available to LGBTQIA2S+ youth during summer. These months can be a challenging time for queer youth and their families as many supports they have access to during the school year are no longer available.

June also happens to be Pride month, Sidelinger noted, when OHA and its public health partners “lift up and celebrate these diverse identities and show our support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth, families and organizations.”

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

Many local, state and national resources are available for LGBTQIA2S+ youth and families to help them thrive as summer kicks off:

• The Oregon Youth Resource Map is designed to help young people ages 16-25 and their allies connect to youth-serving resources, organizations and leadership opportunities. The map centers youth needs and voices, and includes services for health and mental health care, housing, education and more.
• TransActive Gender Project at Lewis & Clark Graduate School works to empower transgender and gender-expansive children, youth and their families in living healthy lives free of discrimination through a range of services and expertise.
• PFLAG offers quick tips to parents and caregivers for supporting their LGBTQIA2S+ children during the coming-out process. PFLAG also has eight chapters in Oregon, including in eastern, southern and central Oregon, and the Portland metro area.
• The Family Acceptance Project works to increase family and community support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth, decrease health and mental health risks, and promote well-being. An Oregon page also is available.
• The Trevor Project promotes suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQIA2S+ young people. Public education materials are available on its website, as well as the results of its 2024 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ Young People.
• Outside In (Portland) welcomes and encourages all from the LGBTQIA2S+ community to connect, feel seen and heard, and provides free resources such as counseling, medical services and wraparound support for homeless youth and other marginalized people who meet diagnostic criteria. Call 503-535-3828.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a number of professional development resources to help teachers and school staff create safe schools for LGBTQIA2S+ youth.
• The Center of Excellence on LGBTQ+ Behavioral Health Equity at the University of Maryland addresses disparities in mental health and substance use disorder treatment systems that affect the LGBTQIA2S+ community. The center published a short video last year on basic terminology that is important for people to know when working with those of diverse sexual orientations or gender identities.
• New Avenues for Youth’s Sexual & Gender Minority Youth Center provides culturally specific support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth.
• The Next Door provides youth outreach in schools, life skills training and mentoring programs such as Gorge Youth Mentoring. It supports a youth advisory council, gender-affirming locker rooms and, in partnership with Columbia Gorge Pride Alliance, promotes 30 Days of Gay events as part of Pride month in June.
• Eastern Oregon Center for Independent Living (EOCIL) provides safe spaces, community building and empowerment for two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ communities, with and without disabilities, and allies in 13 eastern Oregon counties. As one of the largest and oldest two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ service providers and employers in eastern Oregon, EOCIL proudly serves the two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ communities of Baker, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Hood River, Malheur, Morrow, Sherman, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco and Wheeler counties.
• The Rogue Action Center is a diverse network of LGBTQ+ community members and groups in Josephine and Jackson counties that build community, shift policy and build power, help folks navigate resources and close gaps to accessing basic needs, and lift up leadership in our communities.

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

• The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7, is for people in any type of behavioral health crisis, such as mental health-related distress, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or a substance use crisis. People can get help by calling 988, texting 988 or chatting online at 988Lifeline.org.
• 988 offers specialized support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth and young adults by calling 988 and pressing 3 or texting “PRIDE” to 988.
• Oregon Alliance to Prevent Suicide is dedicated to preventing youth and young adults in Oregon from dying by suicide.
• Oregon LGBTQ Support, from Oregon LGBTQ Youth & Family Resources, lists resources that focus on providing services and support to reduce mental health risks and promote well-being for LGBTQ young people.
• Oregon YouthLine for teen-to-teen support. A 24/7 phone line and texting support are available where trained youth respond from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Pacific Time, daily (adults available by phone at all other times).
  • Call 1-877-968-8491
  • Text teen2teen to 839863

# # #

Oaks Amusement Park's summer season starts Friday!  “The Oaks” will be openfor summer 6 days a week, Tuesday-Friday, June 14-September 2, 2024.

General Amusement Park Hours:

• Tuesdays: 12-7 PM
• Wednesdays: 12-7 PM
• Thursdays: 12-7 PM
• Fridays: 12-7 PM
• Saturdays: 12-8 PM
• Sundays: 12-8 PM

Holiday Amusement Park Hours:

• July 4: 12 PM-12 AM (gates open at 11 AM; special ticketed-entry event).
• Labor Day: 12- 7 PM

Money-saving weekday discounts are available online all summer long; visit oakspark.com/specials for details.

Vancouver, Wash., June 11, 2024 — The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington hosted its 40^th anniversary celebration on Thursday, June 6 at ilani Casino Resort. Nearly 550 people attended the event, themed Shine On!, to recognize the people, projects and programs that have defined the organization’s four decades of impact in Clark, Cowlitz and Skamania Counties.

The event featured remarks from Community Foundation president Matt Morton that outlined the organization’s vision for the future, a highlight of which was the launch of its SWIIFT Initiative. This new, impact investing strategy allows the Community Foundation to operate a low-interest loan program utilizing charitable dollars. Nonprofits and housing providers can access loans to accelerate high-impact projects, thus creating a social benefit. As loans are repaid, a modest financial return allows charitable dollars to grow and get recycled for future charitable purposes. 

“These loans will fast-track housing developments and give community organizations the cashflow needed to scale proven programs, both of which allow our region to nimbly address critical issues,” Morton said. “SWIIFT is more than just a financial tool—it’s a catalyst for social and economic justice.”  

The Community Foundation committed $1.5 million of its discretionary assets toward the new initiative. Morton also announced a goal to grow this funding to $5 million through investments and donations from the community. Visit cfsww.org/swiift for more information on the SWIIFT Initiative. 

The event also highlighted three impact stories. The first explained how Paul Christensen, a former board member and longtime donor, transformed his real estate company into an engine for charitable good. Christensen founded Realvest Corporation in 1969 and recently established a supporting organization at the Community Foundation. According to David Fuhrer and Robin Bradford—the former Realvest employees sharing the story—this charitable entity allows his business to continue running while channeling profits into the newly established Realvest Foundation. This year, the supporting organization will grant $296,000 to community causes. 

Philanthropic trailblazers, Wayne and Joan Kuni were next. Greg Goodwin, board chair of the Kuni Foundation, spoke about Joan’s “fierce” advocacy for inclusion that began after two of her children were diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Goodwin also recalled his involvement in the auto dealership Wayne had founded and structured for charitable benefit. After Wayne’s death, Goodwin stewarded the sale of Kuni Automotive, which created one of the largest private foundations in the Pacific Northwest and established a significant donor advised fund at the Community Foundation. 

Elizabeth Najera and Deanna Green spoke about I Have A Dream of Southwest Washington, a program designed to help students prepare for and graduate from college. The local effort adopted four “Projects” or elementary classes, offering comprehensive support and last-dollar scholarships to 333 students at low-income schools. Najera, a Project 1 student, said the program pushed her to become a first-generation college student. The program ended in 2017, but the board transferred its funds into a scholarship at the Community Foundation that keeps the dream of higher education alive for underserved students.  

Morton, who is Native American, ended the night with a story about the Round Dance, a traditional dance practiced at powwows. He talked about how this dance intentionally builds community by inviting everyone into the experience. Morton said the tradition of philanthropy also builds community, and he invited all givers to join in the experience of creating local impact alongside the Community Foundation. 

“This is your invitation,” Morton said. “We’re calling you in to join us in transforming southwest Washington so that future generations will look back at their past and share our stories.”  

The Community Foundation’s 40^th Anniversary Celebration was made possible thanks to Anniversary Sponsors Beaches, Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Cowlitz Tribe Clark County Fund and ilani Casino Resort. First Pacific Financial, Kuni Foundation, PeaceHealth, Sellwood Consulting LLC, Realvest and Umpqua Bank also provided considerable support as Sustaining Sponsors. 

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The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington was founded by Mary Granger and a group of community leaders in 1984. Their goal was to create a community endowment that would provide lasting support for local causes. Today, the Community Foundation is home to more than 380 charitable funds established by individuals, families and businesses. Collectively, these funds house $387 million in charitable assets that expand opportunities every year by providing grants for nonprofits and scholarships for students. Find out how you can become a part of its giving community at cfsww.org. 

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Finance Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on June 13, 2024. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/85960709239?pwd=6CfEW2YanbcDtYaJGBMTphgBvCxP9J.1
Passcode: 972682

SALEM, Oregon— The southwest corner of Willson Park, within State Capitol State Park, will be temporarily closed due to construction into October. 

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will remove a total of eight trees (two pine trees and six small crabapple trees) from the site this week. The trees are not heritage trees or considered significant in terms of age or history. 

The trees will be removed to make space for the future Vietnam Veterans Memorial. OPRD is working with the local nonprofit leading the project and the landscape architects designing the grounds. 

The current closure area covers about one acre of Willson park. The closure area will be reduced by half once the project team completes water and electrical work, which is expected to take about a month. The southwest corner of Willson Park will reopen when phase one of the memorial is complete, which is slated for October.

OPRD asks visitors to respect the signs and barriers as crews complete their work. For additional information about the memorial project, visit its website at https://ocvvm.com/about/

Portland, OR , June 11, 2024 –Kids in Parks (www.kidsinparks.com) is pleased to announce the grand openings of 4 new kid- and family-friendly trails in Pendleton (on June 18), Hermiston, Boardman and the McNary Dam (on June 22^nd).  With funding assistance provided by the Wildhorse Foundation and Oregon Parks Forever, the new educational trails offer a series of educational activities designed to engage kids and families with the sites’ natural resources. 

TRACK Trails are a type of environmental scavenger hunt for young children and their families to get unplugged and active outdoors, offering a series of self-guided activities that turn an ordinary hike into a fun-filled, discovery-packed adventure. At the TRACK Trail’s trailhead, four brochure-led activities are available that help kids learn about topics such as flowers, trees, insects, salmon, and birds.

Kids who participate in the program can register their TRACK Trail adventures at www.KidsInParks.com to earn a series of prizes designed to make their next outdoor adventure even more fun and meaningful. 

These new TRACK Trails, as well as one that opens June 16^th at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, are joining a network of more than 288 TRACK Trail sites in 18 states and Washington, D.C. Collectively, these sites are working across state and agency boundaries to create a national network of trails that get kids excited about spending time in nature. Over the past decade, kids have completed more than 1-million adventures on TRACK Trails.

The trails will be located at Community Park in Pendleton, Riverfront Park in Hermiston, the Riverwalk in Boardman, and at the McNary Dam.

“With each of our TRACK Trails, we hope to engage children in the joys of outdoor exploration,” said Jason Urroz, director of Kids in Parks. “Our ultimate goal is to provide families with fun activities that help them fall in love with nature, discover the value our parks and public lands hold for their lives, and become future stewards of these magnificent places.”

These trails will bring the count of TRACK Trails in Oregon to 19 toward Oregon Parks Forever’s goal of funding 50 TRACK Trails across the state of Oregon. These sites join trails previously established in LaGrande (2), Madras (2), Prineville (3), Estacada (4), Dallas (2), and Newport (2). This statewide network will allow families to travel around the state, learning about Oregon’s amazing natural, cultural, and historic resources.

“We are very excited to add to the growing network of TRACK Trail locations in Oregon,” said Seth Miller, executive director of Oregon Parks Forever. “Our mission is to enhance the experience and accessibility of Oregon’s Parks & Forests, and this is an important project for us.  We hope these trails will allow young kids and their families to get unplugged and active outdoors, and inspire them to become stewards of our public lands”

To learn more about TRACK Trails visit www.kidsinparks.com

To learn more about Oregon Parks Forever visit www.orparksforever.org

MEDIA ADVISORY

Portland Metro Chamber to Host Forum on Gun Violence 

PPB Chief and others participate in discussion on curbing gun violence in Portland

Portland, OR. – June 11, 2024 – The Portland Metro Chamber will host a discussion on gun violence and its impact on youth, families and the community on Thursday, June 13th. 

The morning discussion will include Oregon’s Measure 114, the changes to firearm ownership and purchase requirements initiative, an update from Portland Police Bureau’s Focused Intervention Team (FIT), information on various local programs for at-risk youth, and ways law enforcement and community groups are working together to curb gun violence.

Portland Police Bureau Chief Bob Day will join the conversation. Other panelists include: Asianique Savage with the Oregon Alliance for Gun Safety, Lt. Israel Hill with PPB, Joe McFerrin II, Portland Opportunities Industrialization Center and Rosemary Anderson High School, and Dr. Kathleen Carlson, Director, OHSU Gun Violence Prevention Research Center.

WHO: Portland Metro Chamber

WHAT: Breakfast Forum: Gun Violence 

WHEN: Thursday, June 13th 8:30am-10am

WHERE: Hilton Downtown Portland, 921 SW Sixth Avenue, Skyline Room (23^rd floor)

ABOUT PORTLAND METRO CHAMBER 

The Portland Metro Chamber is the leading voice for business in the region. The Chamber advocates for business at all levels of government to support commerce, community health and vibrancy, and the region’s overall prosperity. We offer a variety of networking opportunities for connecting and fostering growth in our region’s business community. 

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Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) partnering with PDX 311 to expand the reach of its Cooling Portland program 

PORTLAND, Ore., June 11, 2024 – Portlanders can now dial 3-1-1 or go online to apply for a free cooling unit in advance of the hot summer months. Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) is partnering with PDX 311 to equitably expand the reach of its Cooling Portland program, which connects people in need with free, efficient, and portable units that provide cooling and heating.

“Integrating PDX 311 allows us to connect with Portlanders in need and keep people safe ahead of the next heat wave or cold snap,” said PCEF Strategic Partnership and Policy Manager Jaimes Valdez. “Portlanders who need a cooling unit should get on the list before summer starts to heat up.”

Improving lives one cooling device at a time

PCEF launched Cooling Portland in June 2022 in response to the deadly June 2021 Northwest heat dome. Its goal is to install 15,000 efficient cooling devices in the homes of low-income people, with priority for those over 60, those with medical needs, and those who live alone. It has installed more than 8,000 units in Portland homes to date.

“Because Cooling Portland is not an emergency response program during heat waves, people are encouraged to apply as soon as possible,” Valdez said. “This gives the program partners time to verify eligibility, order cooling units, and schedule installation to their homes.”

Cooling Portland is managed by Earth Advantage, which partners with community organizations and housing providers to reach those who need cooling devices. 

How to apply for a free cooling unit

To get a cooling unit, Portlanders can talk to a PDX 311 staffer by calling 3-1-1 (or 503-823-4000 if using VOIP phones) or filling out a secure web-based form. PDX 311 is available from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day; staffers speak many languages and can easily connect interpreters for other languages. Share the language you wish to speak and allow 2-5 minutes for connection. 

If the applicant meets the program’s eligibility requirements, they will be added to the community partners’ installation list. Currently, most eligible applicants receive a highly efficient portable device that can cool during hot weather and provide supplemental heat in cold weather, Valdez said.

Cooling Portland’s additional services 

Some Cooling Portland community partners can also connect people with other helpful programs to reduce utility bills, such as

• PGE’s income qualified bill discount, which can reduce monthly bills by up to 60%;
• Pacific Power’s income-qualified bill discount of up to 40%;
• Northwest Natural’s Bill Discount Program, which can save up to 40% on monthly gas bills; and
• Portland Water Bureau’s financial assistance program, which provides bill discounts and other assistance.

A growing portfolio of essential services

PDX 311 was launched by the City of Portland and Multnomah County in July 2022. It provides Portland residents with a first point of contact – in person, online, or over the phone – to find information, report issues, or request local government services. 

“PDX 311 helped about 168,000 Multnomah County residents by phone, e-mail, and in person in 2023,” PDX 311 Program Manager Michelle Kunec-North said. “We help in many ways. The 311 team can help community members with everything from noise complaints and abandoned cars to applications for downtown business grants. Connecting to your government is as easy as calling 3-1-1.”

About the City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability

The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) develops creative and practical solutions to enhance Portland’s livability, preserve distinctive places and plan for a resilient future. BPS collaborates with community partners to provide comprehensive land use, neighborhood, district, economic, historic and environmental planning, and urban design; research, policy and technical services to advance green building, energy efficiency and the use of solar and renewable energy, waste prevention, composting and recycling, and a sustainable food system; and policy and actions to address climate change.

About the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund

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

• Construction began June 10, on Liberty Street SE.
• Thanks to the 2022 Safety and Livability Bond, Liberty will receive new pavement from Mill Street SE to Trade Street SE.
• For more details, go to www.cityofsalem.net/2022Bond

Salem, Ore. — Work to repave Liberty Street between Mill Street SE and Trade Street SE began June 10 and will continue through the summer. The project is funded by the 2022 Safety and Livability Bond

The Liberty Street SE Pavement Rehabilitation Project includes fixing the one-block stretch of roadway adjacent to Fire Station #1 and Pringle Park Plaza.

The heavily used intersection was identified as a 2022 Safety and Livability Bond project due to the conditions of the existing roadway surface.  The project includes the following key elements:

• New paved and striped surfaces for Liberty Street SE, from Mill Street SE to Trade Street SE.
• ADA-compliant curb ramps at Mill Street SE and Trade Street SE.
• Enhanced designated bicycle stopping area (bike box), with tubular markers to separate from vehicle traffic at Trade St.
• New sidewalk on the west side of Liberty Street SE.

The project is expected to be completed in late 2024.

Construction Impacts:

While construction is underway, drivers should expect some lane closures, temporary traffic revisions, and reduced parking spaces in the area. Work began in the eastmost lane of Liberty Street SE. Drivers should be aware of the construction and expect delays. Alternative routes to avoid the area are encouraged.

The City of Salem is committed to enhancing the quality of life for all residents and visitors. For more information on future Safety and Livability Bond projects, visit www.cityofsalem.net/2022bond.

On June 10, 2024 at 1843 hours, Newport Police arrested Brandon Allen Lyons, 49 of Newport, after Lyons attempted to enter multiple homes and vehicles in the area of NW 55^th Street. Newport Officers were dispatched to the area of NW 55th St following the report of a male subject, later identified as Lyons, attempting to enter a residence. As officers were responding to the area, an additional caller in the area reported seeing Lyons in their back yard and reported he tried to enter their home through their back door. Lyons fled on foot, then attempted to make entry into a third home in the area. The homeowner stated Lyons was unsuccessful entering the home and  left on foot and was last seen entering the woods near NE 57^th Street. 

Newport Officers, along with Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies and OSP Troopers, converged on the area, but were unable to locate Lyons.

While conducting follow-up interviews with homeowners in the area, officers learned Lyons was hiding in a vehicle on NE 57th St. Newport Police, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies, and OSP Troopers responded and located the vehicle on NE 57^th St with a door open. After a brief standoff, Lyons surrendered and was taken into custody without incident. 

While conducting follow-up, officers learned from an employee of Coast Towing, which is located in the area, that Lyons had entered a tow truck, started it up and put it in gear. Lyons was unable to disengage the air brakes and was chased off by an employee at the business.

Lyons was transported to the Lincoln County Jail and lodged on the following charges:

            Brandon Allen Lyons, 49

• Criminal Trespass II x 3
• Unlawful Entry into Motor Vehicle
• Attempt to Commit – Unlawful Use of Motor Vehicle
• Disorderly Conduct II

The incident remains under investigation.  If you have any information regarding this case, contact Officer Nieto 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: SGT Hallmark, 541-265-4850

At the fourth annual STEM Rising Star and Regional Partners Award Ceremony, Career Connect Southwest (CCSW) announced Hockinson High School College & Career Resource Specialist Angelina Sarkinen as the 2024 Educator of the Year and Hockinson High School student Elsie Lyon as a Washington STEM Rising Star Award finalist. 

2024 Educator of the Year: Angelina Sarkinen

Sarkinen is being recognized for her exceptional work to prepare students at Hockinson High School for success in their postsecondary pathways. In her role as the College & Career Resource Specialist, she works with students in grades 9-12 to set postsecondary goals and take early steps to achieve them. Sarkinen is also a leader in the annual Launching Futures College and Career Fair at Hockinson High School. In 2024, the event drew over 600 attendees and was the largest career fair in Hockinson history.

“Angelina is an outstanding example of the advocacy and leadership skills that are needed to make sure every student has a chance to achieve their dreams,” said Vickei Hrdina, Director of Career Readiness & STEM at ESD 112.

Sarkinen is leading the implementation of programs that support transition from high school to postsecondary education for Hockinson students. Sarkinen leveraged Washington STEM High School to Postsecondary (H2P) resources to improve postsecondary outcomes for students in Hockinson. By participating in Limitless and Horizons learning networks, Sarkinen collaborates with peers across Washington state to share opportunities, ideas, and best practices.

Washington STEM Rising Star Award Winner: Elsie Lyon

Elsie Lyon is a 10th grade student at Hockinson High School, where she is involved in Engineering and Computer Science classes. Lyon continually seeks out optional projects, going above and beyond to improve her skills in Engineering and Computer Science Principles classes.

Lyon is interested in pursuing a career in computer programming and is driven to learn the material that is required to open up doors for her. She is described by her teachers as an eager learner and a delight to work with.

Lyon received a $250 stipend from Career Connect SW and a swag basket from local partners, presented during the Network Awards Reception on June 4.

Oregon Historical Society

1200 SW Park Ave., Portland, OR 97205

June 20, 2024 (Noon): Exhibition Opening and Panel Discussion

June 20, 2024 – Nov. 17, 2024 (Exhibition)

The Immigrant Story and the Oregon Historical Society invite you to the grand opening of I Lived to Tell the World, a multimedia exhibition and special panel discussion at the Oregon Historical Society (OHS) in Portland, Oregon.

OHS will host the exhibition opening and panel discussion at noon on World Refugee Day, June 20, 2024, a commemoration designed to draw attention to the plight of the more than 100 million people displaced due to numerous conflicts throughout the world.

Eliza E. Canty-Jones, the society’s chief program officer, will lead the conversation. The panelists include:

• Samir Mustafic, a Bosnian soldier, arrived in Oregon as a patient in need of reconstructive surgery. 
• Saron Khut, a child survivor of the killing fields of Cambodia
• Dr. Dijana Ihas, who, as a member of the Sarajevo String Quartet, performed more than 200 concerts during the three-year siege of Sarajevo.

A question-and-answer session will follow the panel discussion and will include journalist and author Elizabeth Mehren, whose book, I Lived to Tell the World: Stories from Survivors of Holocaust, Genocide, and the Atrocities of War, (Oregon State University Press) provides the title and the inspiration for this event and exhibition. Copies of the book will be available for purchase, and Mehren will be available for book signings after the panel discussion and Q&A. 

The multimedia exhibition, running June 20, 2024, through November 17, 2024, includes the work of Portland photographer Jim Lommasson, who selected objects that these survivors carried with them throughout their journeys and juxtaposed them with handwritten testimonies in the form of stories, memories, poems, and drawings. The exhibit also includes three short films produced by Pacific Northwest documentarians in collaboration with the nonprofit NW Documentary. The films emphasize the individual humanity of genocide survivors, forcing viewers to look beyond cold facts and statistics and confront the immense emotional, spiritual, and physical violence to which these survivors were subjected.

The exhibition opening and panel discussion are free and open to the public.

Images for the story can be downloaded from here.

About The Immigrant Story:

The Immigrant Story is a volunteer-run nonprofit with a mission to foster empathy and build a more inclusive community by sharing stories of immigrants and refugees who often overcame tremendous odds to reach the United States.

About the Oregon Historical Society:

For more than 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. 

Media Advisory – All Media Are Invited

What: Portland Business District Cleanup, sponsored by Miller Nash

When: Wednesday, June 12, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Where: 521 SW 11th Ave. Portland, OR 97205| Map Link

Event Description: The spirit for June’s Business District Cleanup is to make a positive impact on our environment while honoring the values of inclusivity and unity. We are looking forward to having Miss Portland Gay Pride ’24, Nicole Onoscopi, join our morning cleanup, and Arium Botanicals, a queer, Latinx, and vegan-owned house plant shop offering discounts on their items to volunteers. 

Why: Portland's downtown is the heartbeat of our city and keeping it clean is vital for our economy and environment. Litter poses a significant threat to our community's well-being, affecting the aesthetics and overall health of our streets, neighborhoods, and waterways. SOLVE's mission is to create opportunities for individuals and businesses to give back to their communities and play a critical role in maintaining the beauty and integrity of our city from the harmful effects of trash. Together, we can create a cleaner, more inviting downtown that reflects our pride in the city and care for our community.

Media Crews: Arrive by 8:45 a.m. outside of the new Stumptown Coffee to see approximately 100 volunteers of all ages checking in, collecting their cleanup supplies, receiving a safety speech and event debrief, and then heading out in groups to pick up litter in the surrounding area. The event will run from 9 am to 11 am, with volunteers expected to spread throughout the southwest downtown area.

This event will have plenty of visuals of volunteers picking up litter, making for great community packages, VOs, and VOSOTS.

Available interviewees: 

• Kris Carico, Chief Executive Officer, SOLVE

Visit the Portland Business District Cleanup webpage on the SOLVE website for more information.

About SOLVE:

SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. You can follow SOLVE on Instagram at @SOLVEinOregon, Facebook at @SOLVEOregon, or at www.solveoregon.org. 

Salem – Summertime usually means vacations and road trips. According to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR), now is a good time for a little planning and some safety checks that might spare you from dealing with the consequences of a breakdown – or worse, a highway crash. 

DFR reminds Oregonians of safe driving tips and to check with your insurance agent or company to review your insurance policies. With changes in driving patterns and potential risks during the summer, it is crucial for drivers to understand policy limits and coverages. DFR encourages drivers to have a conversation with their agent or insurance company to explore coverage options and ensure policies are up to date.

Also, it is a good time to ensure vehicles are in good working order by reviewing the following:

Air conditioning: As the temperature rises, your A/C works harder to keep your vehicle cool. Check A/C performance before traveling and don’t forget to check your cabin air filter. A lack of air conditioning on a hot summer day affects everyone and is particularly dangerous for people in poor health or who are sensitive to heat, such as children and older adults.

Belts and hoses: To ensure safe and uninterrupted travel, drivers should regularly inspect their vehicle's belts and hoses. High summer temperatures accelerate the rate at which rubber belts and hoses degrade. Look under the hood and inspect all belts and hoses to make sure there are no signs of bulges, blisters, cracks, or cuts in the rubber. It’s best to replace them now if they show signs of obvious wear. Also, make sure all hose connections are secure.

Tires: Make sure each tire is filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure, which is listed in your owner’s manual and on a placard located on the driver’s door pillar or door frame, and don’t forget to check your spare if your vehicle is equipped with one. To get an accurate reading, check pressure when tires are cold, meaning they have not been driven on for at least three hours. Do not inflate your tires to the pressure listed on the tire itself – that number is the maximum pressure the tire can hold, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle. A tire doesn’t have to be punctured to lose air. All tires naturally lose some air over time. In fact, underinflation is the leading cause of tire failure.

Some other tips: 

• Inspect your tires at least once a month and before long road trips. 
• Look closely at your tread and replace tires that have uneven wear or insufficient tread. 
• Tread should be at least 2/32 of an inch or more on all tires. Look for the built-in wear bar indicators or use the penny test to determine when it is time to replace your tires. Place a penny in the tread with Lincoln's head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, your vehicle may need new tires.
• If you find uneven wear across the tires’ tread, it means your tires need to be rotated, your wheels need to be aligned, or both before you travel. 
• Check each tire’s age. Some vehicle manufacturers recommend replacing tires every six years, regardless of use.
• Since electric vehicles are typically heavier than gas-powered vehicles, they require EV-specific tires to bear the weight and maximize performance and electric range, all while minimizing tire noise. Whether the vehicle is gas-powered, electric-powered, or a hybrid, all tires require similar maintenance. Low-rolling-resistance tires for conventional vehicles could also have lower tread life. 

An inspection is not just about checking tire pressure and age. Remember to check: 

• For any damage or conditions that may need attention.
• The tread and sidewalls for any cuts, punctures, bulges, scrapes, cracks, or bumps.
• Your spare tire and car jack kit. 
• If you find tire damage, take your vehicle to a tire professional. 

Essential vehicle components: Regular maintenance of essential vehicle components is vital to ensure a safe and reliable driving experience. Drivers should regularly check vehicle fluid levels, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Also, inspect the cooling system, batteries, and wiper blades to avoid potential breakdowns and maintain clear visibility. It is important to make sure your headlines, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, and interior lights are all in working order as well.

Essential supplies: In preparation for long journeys or unexpected situations, it is essential for drivers to stock their vehicle with necessary supplies. DFR suggests including items such as a first-aid kit, flashlight, extra water, nonperishable snacks, a roadside emergency kit that includes jumper cables, tire pressure gauge, work gloves, a change of clothes, emergency blankets, towels, and coats. These supplies can be invaluable during emergencies or when stranded on the road. In addition, make sure to have a charged portable cell phone charger, extra windshield washer fluid, and maps.

“We encourage all drivers to prioritize safety during the summer season by following these essential tips,” said Andrew R. Stolfi, insurance commissioner and director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. “By practicing responsible driving habits and taking proactive measures, we can collectively contribute to safer roads and a more enjoyable driving experience for everyone. In addition to taking safety measures, and before hitting the road, drivers should make sure their auto insurance coverages are updated and their current proof of insurance is in the vehicle.”

ODOT has published its summer news packet that has a lot of information for people traveling around the state with construction updates, travel tips, and more. ODOT also recommends people check out www.tripcheck.com for road conditions before making any road trip.

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

The Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce recognized Washougal School District teachers Kelly Chen and Jaymi McQueen as the 2024 Teachers of the Year at their annual awards banquet on June 4, 2024. The two educators bring dedication and innovation to their classrooms at Hathaway Elementary School.

“These two teachers are so deserving of this honor! Jaymi and Kelly are highly valued and respected members of the Hathaway community. They collaborate closely to ensure all of their students are successful,” said Wendy Morrill, principal at Hathaway Elementary School.

It's such an honor to receive this award as there are so many wonderful teachers in our district that are deserving,” said McQueen.

“It has been an honor to work with Jaymi and the staff and students at Hathaway for the last few years. I have also had the privilege to work at other schools in the district throughout my career; Washougal really is a special place,” said Chen.

McQueen and Chen have demonstrated a strong commitment to student learning, leading to a 27% year-to-year increase in student performance on the English Language Arts Smarter Balanced Assessment. This notable improvement is a testament to their dedication to Professional Learning Communities (PLCs).

"When I shared the news with my students, they said, 'if you're the teacher of the year, we're the students of the year!' and I absolutely agreed with that," said McQueen. 

The two teachers work each week to identify standards, plan lessons, and calibrate interventions based on data they gather.  In addition, the team works within the Multi-Tiered System of Support structure at Hathaway to advocate for support for students who need higher levels of support to be successful.

The Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce and Washougal School District commend Kelly Chen and Jaymi McQueen for their dedication and exemplary contributions to enhancing student learning outcomes.
 

PF&R Responds to second alarm apartment fire in Downtown PDX

Portland Fire & Rescue responded to an apartment fire in downtown Portland near the intersection of SW 10^th and SW Salmon. With fire showing out of a west facing window upon arrival, the command officer requested a second alarm assignment. With the number of apartments in the building and the time of day, there may have been a significant need for increased workforce present to both extinguish the fire and evacuate the building. The fire was extinguished quickly with no extension into the structure. An occupant was evaluated for possible smoke inhalation but denied medical need for transport. There will be one occupant displaced because of the fire.

At 8:00 PM, PF&R was dispatched to a possible apartment fire in downtown Portland. The first arriving officer noted fire showing out of a what was reported to be a 3^rd story window and immediately requested a second alarm assignment. This takes the initial response of 26 members and doubles it to have just over 50 members of Portland Fire on scene or enroute to the incident. The command officer directed the crews to perform an offensive fire attack which is to take fire hoses interior and extinguish the fire. The inhouse fire sprinkler system kept the initial fire in check and the crews quickly extinguished the fire using hose lines stretched from the pumping engine, into the building, up the stairs and to the fire room. The fire was extinguished and all occupants either safely out of the structure or safely sheltering in place as directed by command during the fire within 20 minutes of the call be dispatched out.

With a large apartment complex and the time of day, there was a possibility of many needed rescues if the fire grew outside the initial occupancy. Many of the first arriving companies were assigned a function of resident safety to be certain all occupants were safely able to get out of the structure. In the process of evacuating residents, a member of PF&R found an individual overcome with smoke in a stairwell. The firefighter took off their mask, placed it over the face of the struggling resident and escorted them out of the structure allowing the resident access to the fresh air from their breathing apparatus. This was the resident evaluated for possible smoke inhalation, but as previously noted, denied medical need in the end.

Portland Fire & Rescue would like to remind you to have multiple exits planned from your home or living structure. If you encounter heavy smoke in a stairwell, know where another is located as this may be the safest exit of the building.

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Update as of June 11 - As the Gresham Fire Department has received multiple requests for an update on injured firefighter, Spencer Tejedas, Chief Lewis will be conducting interviews on Tuesday, June 11 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Station 71, 1333 Northwest Eastman Parkway. Please note that out of respect for the family’s privacy, it will only be Chief Lewis offering interviews at this time.

Update as of June 3 - Firefighter Spencer Tejedas remains in critical but stable condition.  He is tentatively scheduled for surgery today, Monday, June 3. The family wants to express their thanks for the outpouring of support they have received from the community. There are no further updates at this time. 

Original message:

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

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

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

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

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

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

### 

SEASIDE, Ore. – June 10, 2024 – At approximately 12:40 p.m. on June 10, 2024, Seaside Fire & Rescue (SF&R) responded to a report of a water rescue in progress at Avenue S. As a preventive effort, one on-duty lifeguard had entered the water to contact three surfers and notify them they were in a rip current when the lifeguard tower noticed two of the surfers were hanging on to each other. The tower staff then quickly dispatched SF&R who arrived on scene just a few minutes later.

The additional rescue crews arrived to find three surfers being pulled out by a rip current. The SF&R lifeguards and two SF&R water team members on a jet ski responded to their aid. The surfers were brought back to shore by the lifeguards with no medical attention necessary. A U.S. Coastguard helicopter out of Air Station Astoria also responded.

SF&R and the City of Seaside remind beachgoers that rip currents can form unexpectedly. It is best practice to check in with lifeguards to ask for current conditions. The SF&R Lifeguard program begins Memorial Day weekend and typically runs through the Labor Day Holiday. For more beach safety visit seasidefire.com.

end of release

Douglas County, Ore. 9 June 24- On Sunday, June 9, 2024, at 8:00 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Hwy-230, near milepost 10, in Douglas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Ford F150, operated by Jason Michael Ettenberger (24) of Portland, went off the southbound shoulder of the roadway on a lefthand turn. The Ford overcorrected back across the roadway before rolling several times down an embankment and coming to rest on its passenger side. During the rolling event, the passenger in the vehicle was ejected.

The passenger, Austin Cordell Belford (31) of Eagle Point, was declared deceased at the scene. The passenger did not appear to have worn a seatbelt during the crash.

The operator of the vehicle (Ettenberger) suffered injury and was transported to an area hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately 4.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. Speed and occupant safety (seatbelt) are considered the primary causes of the crash.

OSP was assisted by Diamond Lake Resort First Responders, Umpqua Valley Ambulance, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Vancouver, Wash. – The City is launching its community survey on Wednesday, June 12, and urges residents to “pick up” the phone to tell the City what they think about livability, City services and priorities.             

“The community’s input is an important component of the budget development process,” said Communications Director Laura Shepard. “Taking the survey is a great opportunity to share your thoughts and priorities surrounding services.” 

The information collected will help shape the 2025-26 Biennial Budget. The community survey is one touchpoint of many that the City will use to help inform how to close the $43 million budget gap for this biennium. 

The gap is due to the compounding impacts of significant inflation across all spending categories, particularly labor costs. Also, a softening of revenues due to slowing growth and the incremental costs of added programs in recent years have contributed to a deficit between what it costs to provide services and what is available to provide them.

The City is working with DHM Research to conduct the survey. Individuals will be contacted by call and/or text message. Community members will know it is the City’s survey because the area code will be 564. The results will be published on the City’s website.    

Later this summer, the City will open an online prioritization tool where community members can also provide input to the budget process.

City Manager Eric Holmes will present his proposed 2025-26 Biennial Budget to the City Council on Oct. 1. Information about the budget can be found at 2025-26 Biennial Budget Process.

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Multnomah County sheriff’s deputies arrested a man Monday morning after he rammed patrol cars and led deputies on a pursuit in a stolen semi-tractor. Interstate 205 was closed in both directions between Mill Plain Blvd. and State Route 500 for more than an hour.

Around 9 a.m., the owner of the semi called 911 to report that they were tracking the vehicle in Southeast Portland. The semi was described as a red, 2022 International cab over. It was not pulling a trailer. It is owned by Knight Transportation.

About a half an hour later, the owner reported the semi was in the area of NE Marine Drive and NE Interlachen Lane in Fairview.

Around 9:45 a.m., deputies located the stolen semi parked at Blue Lake Park. When deputies attempted to box-in the semi, the driver rammed a patrol vehicle, forcibly pushing the vehicle backward into another patrol vehicle. One deputy was injured during the collision. 

The driver exited the park and drove southbound on NE 223^rd Avenue. Because of the dangerous criminal actions by the driver, deputies pursued the semi.

Deputies successfully used spike strips at NE 223^rd Avenue and NE Sandy Blvd., and other locations, to begin deflating the semi’s tires.

The driver looped onto northbound NE Fairview Parkway and drove westbound on I-84. The driver used emergency lanes on the freeway to bypass traffic. He then proceeded onto northbound I-205.

He continued north on I-205 over the Glenn Jackson Memorial Bridge, traveling between 50 and 65 miles per hour. Deputies reported that, at this point, the semi’s two front tires had disintegrated and was riding on rims. Several rear tires were also coming apart.

After passing Mill Plain Boulevard, the semi slowed and came to a stop on I-205 northbound just north of NE Burton Road, around 10:15 a.m. The driver and passenger did not comply with deputies’ orders to exit the vehicle. 

Washington State Patrol, Vancouver Police and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist Multnomah County deputies. For the public’s safety, all north and southbound lanes of I-205 were closed between Mill Plain Blvd. and State Route 500.

At 11:30 a.m., the driver and passenger exited the truck on their own without further incident. Deputies took the pair into custody.

I-205 reopened in both directions by noon on Monday.

The driver has been identified as 39-year-old Jesus “Jessie” Meza-Sanchez, of Portland. Meza-Sanchez was booked in the Clark County Jail on charges of assault, elude, criminal mischief, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and possession of a stolen motor vehicle. Meza-Sanchez will be extradited to Multnomah County at a later date. The female passenger was not charged with a crime and was released.

The deputy suffered minor injuries and was transported to the hospital to be evaluated.

There were no other reported injuries or reports of damage to cars driven by other motorists during the pursuit.

We appreciate the public’s patience during the freeway closure, and we are grateful for the assistance by the law enforcement agencies in Washington.

Clackamas County, Ore. 9 June 24- On Sunday, June 9, 2024, at 2:46 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Hwy-224, near milepost 16, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Chevy 1500 pickup, operated by Jose Luis Arce Tamayo (51) of Portland, left the roadway and struck a telephone pole on the north side of the highway.

A passenger in the Chevy, Rosa Delgado Perez (49) of Portland, was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Chevy (Tamayo) was seriously injured and transported to an area hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately 4.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is ongoing however, impairment is the suspected cause of the crash.

OSP was assisted by Clackamas County Fire, Wilsonville Police Department, and the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office.

# # #

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Gresham, Oregon man is facing federal charges today after he was caught using Telegram, an encrypted messaging service, to sell various controlled substances to minors.

Timothy Jeffrey Monahan, 31, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

“Drug trafficking has had an alarming impact on children in our communities. We thank the FBI, Clackamas County Interagency Task Force, and all our law enforcement partners for their continued focus on holding accountable individuals that target children,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

According to court documents, early in 2024, law enforcement obtained information that an individual, later determined to be Monahan, was allegedly using Telegram to advertise the sale of various illegal narcotics including cocaine, LSD, ketamine, DMT, psilocybin mushrooms, and various marijuana and vaping products. Monahan is alleged to have used the Telegram usernames “Thepdxyokai” and “Yokai” to advertise and broker the sale of narcotics and used an adult drug runner to deliver the drugs to customers on his behalf. 

On June 7, 2024, investigators executed federal search warrants on Monahan’s residence and vehicle wherein they located and seized quantities of cocaine and psilocybin mushrooms, two loaded firearms, drug packaging materials and scales, and more than $106,000 in cash. After he was placed under arrest, Monahan admitted to operating the Telegram accounts located by investigators to sell narcotics to a customer based composed mostly of minors. Monahan further admitted to trading controlled substances in exchange for sex acts or sexually explicit photos from his customers.

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

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF). It is being prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, 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.

CCITF, led by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, works to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations operating in and around Clackamas County, and reduce illegal drugs and related crimes throughout the community. The task force is comprised of members of the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Canby Police Department, Oregon State Police, FBI, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). CCITF is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program.

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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Washougal School District (WSD) is seeking community input on district communications through an annual communications survey, open through the end of June. Washougal community members are encouraged to complete the 2024 WSD Communications Survey here.

The district collects feedback each spring to better understand how school district messages and news stories are meeting community needs and how it can be improved. Washougal School District communicates with families and the greater community via the district website, printed newsletters, social media, banners, and yard signs. Families of students in Washougal School District also receive information from the district via weekly e-newsletters, backpack flyers, text alerts, emails, and robocalls.

“Community input through this survey serves as a roadmap for us to make improvements next school year that matter most to Washougal families,” said Les Brown, Director of Communications at Washougal School District. 

In response to last year's communication survey feedback, district communicators publicized school events in weekly e-newsletters with more advanced notice, made changes to snow route processes, and made budget information more publicly accessible this school year.

"We want to make sure that families and community members are well-informed about the great things happening in our schools," said Mary Templeton, Superintendent of Washougal School District. "Hearing directly from our community helps us improve and adjust our approach to meet their needs."

For more information about Washougal School District, visit washougal.k12.wa.us.

June 8, 2024 at about 1600 hours, Newport officers were dispatched to the 400 block of SW Coast Hwy on the report of a single vehicle having crashed into a building. Upon arrival, officers located a 2005 Gray Kia Amanti crashed into the front of the Red Lotus Music Store. The vehicle had been traveling northbound on Hwy 101, when it veered off the roadway, knocked over a street lamp, and came to rest against the front of the business. Officers contacted the driver and identified them as Christopher Daniel Johnson, 38 of Newport. 

The investigation revealed Johnson had been traveling northbound on Hwy 101 and last remembered crossing the Yaquina Bay Bridge. Officers on the scene conducted a DUII investigation which determined Johnson was impaired. Johnson was transported to the Lincoln County Jail to be lodged and the vehicle was towed from the scene.

Johnson was taken into custody and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail for the following charges; 

Christopher Daniel Johnson, 38

• DUII

If you have any information regarding this case, contact Officer Werner-Gavrin 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.

Washington County, Ore. 7 June 24- On Friday, June 7, 2024, at 12:50 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Hwy 6, near milepost 33, in Washington County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Toyota Camry, operated by Karl Gordon Peters (67) of Forest Grove, drove onto the eastbound gravel shoulder for unknown reasons, crossed back across the lanes of travel into the westbound guardrail, and rolled over the guardrail before coming to rest on its roof.

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

The highway was impacted for 5 hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Washington County Sheriff's Office, Banks Fire, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Deschutes County, Ore. 7 June 24- On Friday, June 7, 2024, at 8:24 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Hwy-97, near milepost 158, in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Toyota Tacoma, operated by Robert Patrick Conway (53) of Crescent, drifted off the northbound shoulder or the highway for unknow reasons. The Toyota continued down the shoulder, struck a roadway sign, struck several trees, and rolled onto it's roof.

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

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

OSP was assisted by Deschutes Fire, Sunriver Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Bend Fire Department was dispatched to a reported outbuilding on fire on Deschutes Market Rd just north of the city limits at 9:12 this morning. Callers indicated the fire was spreading to out buildings and brush. The outbuilding was being used as a residence for one adult occupant. Occupants from the main home were using garden hoses to help prevent the spread when crews arrived. The fire was quickly stopped by the first arriving fire crews. No one was home in this building at the time of the fire, the occupant was at work and came back when he heard of the fire. 

The fire appears to be caused by an electrical failure in the outbuilding. Power was run to the 12 by 12 building with an extension cord. Due to the fire damage the exact failure point was not determined. The fire consumed the outbuilding and car next to it. The fire spread to adjacent outbuildings but only caused exterior damage to them. Total loss is approximately $25,000. Red Cross was called to assist the adult occupant who lost his home and all belongings in the fire. 

Bend Fire Department reminds everyone to have working smoke alarms in their homes, whether it’s a tiny home, main house or RV. Smoke alarms more than double your chances of surviving a fire with their quick notification especially with the increased speed at which items burn in a home now. For assistance with your smoke alarms call our main number to set up a visit, 541-322-6300. www.bendoregon.gov/smokealarms 

National statics show that a house fire 40 years ago took up to 20 minutes to consume a room during the early stages of a fire and that same room today with modern furniture and decorations takes less than 5 minutes to burn. https://www.nfpa.org/news-blogs-and-articles/nfpa-journal/2021/06/08/1700

On Monday June 10, 2024 at 07:39  Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to the report of a structure fire at 10331 NE Fourth Plain.  The first fire engine arrived within three minutes of dispatch to find a single story duplex with fire coming from windows on the front and side of the house.   In all, four fire engines, one ladder truck, one squad and two battalion chiefs responded for a total of 24 firefighter personnel on scene.    The fire was knocked down and contained within eight minutes of the first engine arriving.   Red Cross was called to the scene to help with one displaced resident.   No injuries to firefighters,  civilians or animals  was  reported.   Clark County Fire Marshals Office is investigating the cause of the fire.  

NORTH PORTLAND, Ore. – The Portland Community College Foundation is announcing one of its largest gifts by an individual donor at an event on June 12. The $1 million gift pledge will be fulfilled at $200,000 per year for the next five years to help build and expand the First-Year Experience initiative within the Future Connect Scholarship Program.

WHAT:

A celebration of a million-dollar gift by a local philanthropist for the expansion of Future Connect Scholarship Program’s First-Year Experience initiative to serve more students. Speakers and guests include State Senator Rob Wagner, PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings, Future Connect Program students and Brigid Flanigan, founder and principal of Tenfold Senior Living.

WHERE:

Opportunity Center at 42nd Avenue
4299 NE Killingsworth St., Portland, OR
Map & Info

WHEN:

Program begins at 6 p.m., Wednesday, June 12.

WHO:

Brigid Flanigan is used to building things up and serving those often underserved. She comes from a philanthropic family dedicated to the value of education. A developer of senior living communities since 1992, Flanigan’s focus has been on building senior living communities in California and the Northwest. She founded Tenfold to develop a model for senior living that offers programs, amenities and a lifestyle to address unmet market demand. Prior to starting Tenfold Senior Living, Flanigan developed several assisted living projects in Northern California and in Portland. She will join the PCC Foundation Board of Directors, starting July 1. Learn more: https://tenfoldseniorliving.com/about-tenfold/

ABOUT THE FIRST-YEAR EXPERIENCE INITIATIVE:

This fall, Future Connect will reach more students than ever by piloting the First-Year Experience. The initiative will offer new students a connection to a coach, regular contact for career guidance, and support navigating college resources and targeted curriculum in college success. Flanigan’s gift will be used to expand Future Connect’s First-Year Experience initiative to a broader group of students at PCC.

• Initial Year: Serve approximately 1,500 first-year, first-generation high school students.
• Following Years: Serve approximately 2,500 first-generation students starting college regardless of age.
• Final Goal: Serve all new-to-college students (approximately 5,000).

For more details: https://www.pcc.edu/first-year/

ABOUT FUTURE CONNECT:

Since 2016, Future Connect has welcomed approximately 330 new students annually with more than 4,000 students served since 2011. Future Connect will continue to provide full wrap-around support, including coaching, mentoring, and scholarships, with the help of public and private partners. This program works to eliminate the barriers for first-generation college students, and supports them throughout their college education so that they can reach their potential as active and productive members of the Portland metro area. Learn more: https://www.pcc.edu/future-connect/

EVENT RSVP:

James Hill, Director of Public Relations, at jghill@pcc.edu or 503-933-2664.

About the PCC Foundation: The PCC Foundation is a nonprofit organization that enriches lives and strengthens the region through support of education at PCC. The Foundation’s vision is that all students in the region have access to an excellent education at PCC and the support needed to succeed, regardless of their ability to pay. A tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the PCC Foundation mobilizes private support for student scholarships and educational programs. To find out more, call (971) 722-4382 or visit 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 50,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

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

Students in Khrista McBride and Samantha Howards’ fourth grade classrooms at Columbia River Gorge applied science and engineering concepts as they built, tested, and measured the results of balloon-powered hovercraft races.  Students created the hovercrafts from CDs, balloons, and the cap from a bottle.  The balloons were connected to the cap, which was glued onto the CD, creating a small gap for air to flow out, resulting in a small amount of lift to let the hovercrafts glide on hard surfaces. 

Each student tested their hovercraft in several settings, and with different sizes of balloons, and measured the distance traveled, so they could analyze the resulting data and draw conclusions about what makes a successful hovercraft.  Howard said, “Students exploring is the most natural way to learn.”

McBride said that, “After the lesson, students reflected on the notes they gathered, and were surprised by the smaller balloons working better than larger balloons.” She described students discovering that, “The smaller size allowed their hovercraft to move further and faster due to the continuous volume of air flow.”  

Students also found that designing the hovercraft with the shiny side of the CD facing down worked better than the label side. Students found this through “​​their comparisons and discussion which led them to decide that the smooth side was the better one facing down. They learned that reducing friction made a difference.”  Students also noticed differences between distance traveled due to the flooring, including that the hovercraft traveled less distance on the rug than hard materials. 

By combining science and engineering processes together, students learned the practical application of a number of science concepts, and how things like friction and weight can influence the outcome of an experiment. 

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Special Meeting

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a special meeting on June 10, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE Salem. For further information, please contact Shelby Wright at (503) 378-2191.

Agenda Items

1. Introductions

2. Nicholas Berg (DPSST #16489); Mist-Birkenfield Rural Fire Protection District; Initial Application for Benefits

    Presented by Kathy McAlpine

3. Next meeting – July 25, 2024, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting at 9:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. 

New service to easily recycle old batteries starts today. 

Portland, Ore.— Getting rid of old batteries just got a lot easier. The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) just launched a new service to collect and recycle batteries. Portlanders who live in a house, duplex, triplex, or fourplex can now recycle their batteries by putting them in a one-quart bag and setting it out with their glass recycling.  

This new service makes it easy for residents to recycle batteries and addresses a rising problem across the country: battery-caused fires at recycling and waste facilities.

“Lithium-ion battery fires, often involving e-scooters, e-bikes, and portable electronics, are a growing fire-safety concern nationwide,” said Portland Fire Marshal Kari Schimel. “These fires can start and spread quickly, emitting large amounts of toxic smoke. For these reasons, it is critical that Portlanders safely dispose of these batteries and devices containing them and do not throw them away in their trash.”

How to recycle batteries safely

Any battery that fits into a sealed, one-quart bag can be set out for curbside collection. Some batteries must be taped for safety, and all batteries must be sealed in a zip-tight, one-quart bag.

1. Tape (some) batteries: Look for a label on the battery. If it says “alkaline”, the battery can go right into a one-quart bag with no tape needed. If you do not see “alkaline”, tape both ends of the battery with clear tape before putting it into the bag.
2. Bag: Put all the batteries in a clear, one-quart, zip-sealed bag.
3. Set out with glass: Place the bag of batteries in your glass recycling bin. Set it on top of the glass so the waste collection driver sees it.

Some batteries are not accepted at the curb and must be dropped off for safe disposal. Anything that makes noise, lights up, heats up, or moves, and does not plug into a wall, has a battery. This includes wireless devices, fitness bands, electric toothbrushes, cell phones, laptops, some toys, and even “singing” birthday cards. These types of items and others with batteries in them, like vape pens, e-cigarettes, and other electronics, must be dropped off for safe disposal. Call 503-234-3000 or go to www.oregonmetro.gov/askmetro for drop-off locations near you.

Batteries can spark and cause fires: Never put them in trash or mixed recycling

Battery-caused fires in garbage trucks and waste-processing facilities have increased dramatically in recent years. These fires put workers’ lives in danger and can cost millions of dollars in damage.

“While batteries are essential in our daily lives, they can pose a significant fire hazard if not handled and disposed of correctly,” explained the Portland Haulers Association. “By taking the time to dispose of your batteries properly, you are preventing fires and contributing to the overall safety of our community.”

See what happens when batteries spark, explode, and start fires at recycling and waste facilities.

Apartments and businesses: Find drop-off battery recycling options near you

If you live in an apartment or have batteries at your workplace, you can find battery recycling drop-off or mail-in options by contacting Metro’s Recycling Information Center Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 503-234-3000 or by visiting their website: www.oregonmetro.gov/askmetro.  

Learn more about curbside battery collection

Portlanders seeking more information about this new program can visit www.portland.gov/batteries.

Those who live outside of city limits can look at their city or county’s website to see if battery-collection services are available in their area. Many collection services in the greater Portland area offer residential curbside battery collection including Clackamas County, much of Washington County, and Gresham.

About the City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability

The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) develops creative and practical solutions to enhance Portland’s livability, preserve distinctive places and plan for a resilient future. BPS collaborates with community partners to provide comprehensive land use, neighborhood, district, economic, historic and environmental planning, and urban design; research, policy and technical services to advance green building, energy efficiency and the use of solar and renewable energy, waste prevention, composting and recycling, a sustainable food system, digital equity and community technology; and policy and actions to address climate change.