CORVALLIS, Ore. – On Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 5:16 pm, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) responded to a two-vehicle crash with a fatality on Highway 34 near Grange Hall Road, Philomath.

A male juvenile, who was a backseat passenger in a 2006 Ford Escape, was pronounced deceased while being transported to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center (GSRMC) due to injuries sustained in the collision.

Preliminary investigation indicates that a 21-year-old female driver of a 1997 Ford F-350 was traveling westbound on Highway 34 when she struck the rear of the Ford Escape that was turning east onto Grange Hall Road.

The 26-year-old female driver of the Escape and her front-seat passenger sustained minor injuries and were treated at GSRMC.

The driver and passenger of the F-350 were not injured.

Highway 34 at Grange Hall Road was closed for approximately three hours while investigators processed the scene.

The BCSO would like to thank the Benton County District Attorney’s Office, Philomath Police Department, Philomath Fire Department, Corvallis Fire Department, and Willamette Valley First Responder Chaplains for their assistance.

The driver of the F-350 is cooperating with investigators. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Benton County Crash Team.

If you have any additional information or witnessed the crash, please contact BCSO at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov or their tip line at 541-753-8477, re: case #2025-01009.

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Update 4/25/2025 9:15am

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

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

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

Additional updates will be released when more information is available.

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

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

The CCSO Major Crimes Unit is investigating the incident.

On April 23, 2025 at 1650hrs, a caller reported an “out of control brush fire,” at the end of Clark Creek Road, Longview, WA. Cowlitz 911 dispatched a Battalion Chief, 3- Brush engines and a water tender from Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue (C2FR) to the incident.

During the response Firefighters spotted a large column of smoke from the area, indicating a large-scale incident. At that time 2 more Cowlitz 2 Tenders were added to the response, as well as a request for WA DNR and the availability of a DNR Helicopter.

First arriving unit was a Brush Engine from C2FR Station 22 and sized up the fire as: 2-acre, moderately moving, in brush and mixed fuels. 2-4’ foot flame lengths

Battalion Chief assumed command while brush engines began containing and suppressing the fire with hoselines and fire trailing. A short while after C2FR arrival, 2- WA DNR Overhead along with 2- DNR Brush engines  arrived and worked seamlessly, at all levels to continue containment efforts.

At 1823hrs fire was declared “Contained” at 3.4 acres

This incident was witnessed to have begun next to their residence and spread rapidly before any attempt to extinguish by residents could be attempted. The residence didn’t not occur any damage but all vegetation that wasn’t fully green was consumed up to and including less than 5 feet from 2 sides of the residence.

C2FR resources turned over fire fully to WA DNR at 1952hrs.

WA DNR will be investigating the incident and will be monitoring the fire perimeter over the next few days

Field weather was obtained at the start of containment efforts and revealed that humidities were 30% with upslope winds. These conditions are historically known to be indicators for potential “high fire growth potential” in Western WA

Battalion Chief Dan W Cothren

Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue

At 1:56pm, on Saturday April 26th, Forest Grove Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a reported brush fire on NW Agaard Road in rural Washington County. Crews arrived 17 minutes later to find fire burning in a clear cut and spreading up hill. Firefighters deployed hose lines around both sides of the fire. It took firefighters 20 minutes to stop the forward progress of the fire and have the perimeter of the fire covered by hose lines. It took firefighters another hour and a half of moping up hotspots and digging containment line around the fire perimeter. In total, the fire burned approximately 1/2 of an acre. This land was logged about a year ago and replanted with new trees over the winter. 

The fire came within 50 feet of a nearby house, but thankfully burned away from it. Through investigation, it was found the property owner was burning cardboard and spread to nearby vegetation on logging property owned by Stimson Lumber. With varying winds, the fire spread quickly up the hillside. 
 

This area is dual covered by Forest Grove Fire & Rescue and Oregon Department of Forestry. Because the fire started on one property and spread onto another, Forestry Officials fined the property owner.

We want to remind everyone, that if burning is allowed in your jurisdiction, follow local rules on what is and isn't allowed to be burn. If you're allowed to burn, never leave a burn pile unattended and have a shovel and water hose ready to be used. Also burn in an area away from vegetation that could catch fire.

Forest Grove Fire & Rescue was assisted on scene by Banks Fire District, Cornelius Fire Department, Oregon Department of Forestry, Gaston Fire District, Washington County Sheriffs Office and Oregon State Police.

 
Scene Information:

Brush Units: 6
Engines: 2
Water Tenders: 2
Chiefs: 2
 

Total Firefighters: 30

# # #

UPDATE
Missing 12-year-old has been located

.RELEASE DATE:               April 24, 2025
CASE NUMBER:                 25-16523

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham Police is asking for the public’s assistance with locating a missing 12-year-old who was last seen leaving her home in the 100 block of SE Hogan Rd.

Genevieve Scott left home just after 4 p.m. after getting upset and has not returned. She is described as a White female with blonde hair, is 5-feet and 4-inches tall and weighs 120 pounds. Genevieve was last seen wearing a T-shirt, black shorts, and black Ugg boots. It is not known if Genevieve brought her required medicine with her.

If anyone has information about Genevieve’s whereabouts, they are asked to call the non-emergency police line at 503-823-3333.

###30###
 

RELEASE DATE:               April 23, 2025
CASE NUMBER:                 25-16311
 

Gresham, Ore.—Gresham Police is asking for the public’s assistance with locating a missing 67-year-old male, David Round.  David’s caretakers discovered he was missing from the 1000 block of SE 213 Ave., this morning. David has a cognitive disability and is missing his required daily medication. He is familiar with TriMet.

David is described as a Black male who is 5-feet and 10-inches tall and weighs approximately 190 pounds. He is bald with brown eyes and it is believed he is wearing dark clothing.

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

###30###

Over the weekend of April 19, 2025, the David Hill bell and placard on display at the Hillsboro School District Oak Street Campus (440 SE Oak St) was stolen. The bell is the original bell from the David Hill School.

Anyone with information is asked to call 503-629-0111 regarding case number 25-7891.

 Lebanon Fire District crews responded Saturday  to a structure fire  in the 41000 block of Conser Hill Rd that was ignited by an unattended burn pile. The fire quickly spread, burning approximately one acre of surrounding grass and brush before firefighters were able to bring it under control.

Firefighters arrived on scene to find the blaze threatening nearby structures and vegetation. Crews acted swiftly to contain the fire, preventing it from causing further damage. No injuries were reported.

Lebanon Fire District would like to remind residents that burn piles should never be left unattended, and that fire safety guidelines must be followed, especially during dry conditions.

The cause of the fire has been confirmed as an improperly monitored burn pile. Lebanon Fire urges the community to remain vigilant to prevent future incidents

Today at 4:17pm, Lebanon Fire District responded to a 0.25-acre brush fire in the 42000 block of Upper Berlin. Quick action from firefighters helped contain the blaze before it could spread further. The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) provided  assistance during the response.

The fire is now under control. No injuries were reported

WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS    
 

Oregon had a record breaking 1.9 million acres burned by wildfire in 2024. That was the most acreage burned in 30 years and 18 times as much acreage as in 2023. The current year started with destructive fires in California and has continued in several areas of the country with nearly 823,000 acres burned so far.

May is a great time to learn about wildfires and prepare your home before the surrounding land dries out. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Have a Plan. Develop an emergency plan using this evacuation checklist as a guide. Include a communications plan with your family and friends and at least one person out of the area.

2. Know about evacuation levels and sign up for emergency alerts at oralert.gov.

3. Clear a defensible space around your home. Start with 5 feet around your home, then work your way up to a 30-foot distance. This is a buffer-zone that can protect your home in case a wildfire is coming. 

4. Use safe backyard burning practices. Escaped debris burning is the leading cause of human-caused wildfires in Oregon. 

5. Use care with power equipment. Do yard clean up in the spring, not in the summer. Equipment fire is usually the second leading cause of human-caused wildfire.  

6. Check your home address marker – can you see it from the street? If not, trim overgrown vegetation or move the marker so first responders can find you if they need to. 

7. Build a 72-hour kit for your family and pets. Get tips at www.ready.gov/kit . 

8. Document your possessions and store this digitally or away from your home. A video can work for this. 

9. Prepare financially for a disaster. The Division of Financial Regulation has information on insurance and other financial considerations

10. For more wildfire prevention tips, visit www.keeporegongreen.org

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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The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) conducted a search warrant in Troutdale, resulting in the recovery of stolen motorcycles, a firearm and prohibited weapons, and the arrest of a suspect.

The investigation began on April 8, 2025, when a MCSO deputy, currently assigned as the City of Troutdale Resource Deputy, conducted a traffic stop on Troutdale Road. The Harley Davidson motorcycle he stopped was not displaying a license plate. The deputy was unable to locate a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the motorcycle. Suspecting the motorcycle was stolen, the deputy seized the bike for a VIN inspection. The rider was connected to a home located in the 500 block of SE 18th St. in Troutdale. The deputy recognized the address as a location where he had previously arrested 42-year-old Michael G. Falk and had observed an unusually high number of motorcycles on the residential property.

The deputy collaborated with the Portland Police Bureau Auto Theft Task Force, who conducted a VIN inspection of the motorcycle and confirmed it had been reported stolen. Based on this finding, the deputy obtained a search warrant for Falk’s property, which was conducted on April 17, 2025.

During the search of the property, among around 15 motorcycles and motorcycle parts, law enforcement officials discovered two stolen motorcycles, two additional motorcycles with their VINs intentionally removed, a firearm and other prohibited weapons.

Michael Falk, who resides at the location with his elderly father, was arrested on an outstanding warrant. The following charges were directly presented to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office: two counts of Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, two counts of Trafficking in Vehicles with Altered VINs, two counts of Felon in Possession of Prohibited weapons and one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Today, a Multnomah County grand jury indicted Falk on all charges.

The investigation also revealed concerning information regarding the welfare of Mr. Falk’s father. The deputy contacted Adult Protective Services to help the father in seeking the eviction of Mr. Falk from the property.

The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office acknowledges the significant impact this situation has had on the neighborhood. During the search warrant, neighbors expressed their relief and appreciation for law enforcement intervention. The City of Troutdale Code Enforcement also responded to the scene and will be addressing code violations at the residence.

MCSO Captain Rob Stewart, City of Troutdale Chief of Police, commended the deputy for his diligent work, stating, "This deputy’s keen observation, thorough investigation and commitment to addressing both criminal activity and neighborhood livability issues are exemplary. This case showcases the dedication of our deputies to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our community."

Community policing is essential to strengthening trust, collaboration and long-term solutions to public safety concerns. Community Resource Deputies work closely with city leaders, neighborhood associations, businessowners and residents to increase participation in crime reduction efforts and improve coordination to resolve public safety challenges. By building lasting relationships and encouraging proactive problem-solving, our Community Resource Deputies help create safer, more connected communities.

Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) arrests two in Georgia custodial interference investigation- Josephine County

On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, the Oregon State Police received information from the Grants Pass Police Department of a custodial interference investigation which originated out of the Woodstock Police Department, Cherokee County, Georgia. OSP obtained additional information that the mother, Haley Noel Nelson (32), had illegally taken her two young children under the age of five (5), from Georgia, and fled to Josephine County. Nelson had an outstanding arrest warrant out of Cherokee County with two charges; Interference with Custody (Misdemeanor) and Interstate Interference with Custody (Felony). 

At approximately 1:30 p.m., RADE personnel observed Nelson with an adult male, Carlos Figueroa (28), and both children in downtown Cave Junction. RADE took Nelson into custody on her arrest warrant and detained Figueroa, without incident. During a subsequent search of the associated vehicle, a firearm was located in plain view. Figueroa, who is a convicted felon, was arrested for Felon in Possession of a Firearm (ORS 166.270). 

Both Nelson and Figueroa were transported to the Josephine County Jail where they were lodged. 

Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) Grants Pass-Child Welfare responded to assist with the children, who were unharmed. RADE was also assisted by the OSP Central Point Area Command-Major Crimes Section and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Medford Office Task Force. RADE is comprised of the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office, the Grants Police Department, the Oregon State Police and Josephine County Community Corrections. 

# # #

  
About the Oregon State Police

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

Josephine County, Ore. 22 April 2025- Oregon State Police investigating officer involved shooting in Josephine County.

On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, just after 12:00 p.m., a Josephine County Sheriff’s Office Deputy encountered a wanted suspect with a felony warrant, near the O’Brien Country Store, in O’Brien.  The suspect, Clinten Anthony Robertson (33) of Grants Pass, evaded the deputy and used his vehicle to ram the deputy’s vehicle, resulting in an officer involved shooting. 

Robertson was struck by gunfire during the incident and transported to Three Rivers Hospital in Grants Pass for medical treatment.

No injuries to bystanders or law enforcement occurred during the incident.

The Josephine County Major Crime Team, which consists of the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office, the Grants Pass Police Department, the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon State Police has been activated.  The Oregon State Police is leading the investigation.  No additional details will be released at this time. 

Update: On Monday, April 21, 2025, at 5:59 p.m., Oregon State Police arrested Jonathan James Dowdy. Dowdy was released from RiverBend Hospital after he was admitted and received care for injuries suffered during the crash on April 18. After his arrest, Dowdy was lodged in the Coos County Jail for the following crimes:

• ORS 163.118 Manslaughter in the First Degree (X2)
• ORS 163.175 Assault in the Second Degree (X3)
• ORS 163.165 Assault in the Third Degree (X5)
• ORS 163.195 Reckless Endangering of a Person (X14)
• ORS 163.196 Aggravated Driving While Suspended or Revoked
• ORS 813.010 Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants
• ORS 811.140 Reckless Driving
• ORS 811.182 Driving While Suspended – Misdemeanor
• ORS 164.354 Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree

Oregon State Police is actively investigating the fatal collision and does not have further information to release.

Coos County, Ore. 19 April 2025- On Friday, April 18, 2025, at 9:56 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 42, near milepost 23, in Coos County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Johnathan James Dowdy (32) of Coos Bay, crossed the centerline into the eastbound lane and struck an eastbound Chevrolet Express bus, operated by Jami Lea Strinz (46) of Roseburg, head-on. The bus was occupied with 10 members of the Umpqua Community College softball team. 

The operator of the Chevrolet Silverado (Dowdy) suffered serious injuries and was transported to an emergency medical center.

The operator of the Chevrolet Express (Strinz) was transported with critical injuries and was later declared deceased at the hospital.

A passenger of the Chevrolet Express, Kiley Nevaeh Jones (19) of Nampa (ID), was declared deceased at the scene.

The other 8 occupants of the Chevrolet Express, whose identities are not being released at this time, suffered moderate to serious injuries and were provided emergency medical services.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. Impaired driving is considered a primary cause of the crash.

Due to the on-going criminal investigation, additional details related to the crash are not available for release.

OSP was assisted by Myrtle Point Police Department, Coquille Police Department, Coos County Sheriff's Office, Myrtle Point Fire, Coquille Fire, and ODOT.

# # #

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

Josephine County, Ore. 21 April 2025- On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 5:40 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Highway 199, near milepost 26, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a pedestrian, Kale Phillip Luke (31) of Grants Pass, was reportedly walking in the roadway when he was struck by a southbound Ford Escape, operated by Andrew Martin Vendrick (39) of Santa Rosa (CA).

The pedestrian (Luke) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford (Vendrick) was reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by Illinois Valley Fire and ODOT.

# # #

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

Yamhill County, Ore. 21 April 2025- On Friday, April 18, 2025, at 3:50 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 99W, near the intersection with Northeast Youngman Lane, in Yamhill County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Toyota Corolla, operated by Dennis Giron-Cortes (36) of Woodburn, was in the slow lane when it lost control and left the roadway. The Toyota rolled onto it's roof before striking a utility pole which consequently broke the utility pole and dropped live power wires onto the roadway.

The operator of the Toyota was declared deceased at the scene.

The roadway was impacted for approximately 4.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. Speed is believed to be a primary cause of the crash.

OSP was assisted by the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office, McMinnville Fire, and ODOT.

# # #

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

On March 27, 2025, Officers responded to an assault that occurred at a care facility located in the 5300 Block of NE Prescott.  Officers arrested Reynaldo Silva, 66; Silva was later indicted for Assault II by a Multnomah County Grand Jury. 

On April 10, 2025, the victim of the assault, Galen Pixler, 68, died and the medical examiner ruled his death a homicide due to delayed complications from the assault. Additional charges may now be sought in this case.

Anyone with information about this case, who has not yet spoken with investigators, is asked to contact Detective Eric McDaniel at ic.mcdaniel@police.portlandoregon.gov">eric.mcdaniel@police.portlandoregon.gov 503-823-0833 or Detective Sterling Farrar at (503) 823-0710 or ling.Farrar@police.portlandoregon.gov">Sterling.Farrar@police.portlandoregon.gov  

The family of Galen Pixler has been notified of his death and is requesting privacy at this time.

###PPB###

A multi-agency fentanyl enforcement operation resulted in dozens of arrests, as well as the seizure of drugs, firearms, and cash.

In a coordinated effort to protect the public from the deadly impact of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs, the Portland Police Bureau (PPB), in collaboration with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program, conducted a series of drug enforcement missions in the month of February. These missions, a result of fentanyl and other drugs flooding the region due to Honduran drug trafficking organizations working with the Sinaloa Cartel, led to dozens of arrests and the seizure of substantial amounts of fentanyl powder and pills, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin. Firearms and cash were seized, as well.

Driven by a shared commitment to community safety, these joint missions resulted in:

•             46 arrests

•             20 firearms seized

•             $204,007 in cash seized

•             44 pounds of fentanyl powder seized

•             2,507 fentanyl pills seized

•             22 pounds of methamphetamine seized

•             9 pounds of cocaine seized

•             2 pounds of heroin seized

“Fentanyl has no place in our city. Our partnership with local, state, and federal agencies makes our collective response stronger,” Portland Police Chief Bob Day said. “This operation was a success, but it is only one step in a larger, sustained effort to keep Portland safe.”

“I am proud of the work by our deputies. Law enforcement has an important role in combatting fentanyl, and the violence and crime it brings with it,” Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell said. “The success of these operations proves the strength of our partnerships and our shared commitment to keeping our community safe.”

"This has been a priority of my office from day one. And I'm glad to see that we're making progress,” Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez added. “We have more work to do but we remain dedicated to this effort.”

"We echo our partner's sentiments about collaboration - partnerships have always been central to the FBI's success," said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. "Coming together on a major disruption like this benefits our community and is the most effective way for law enforcement to combat the fentanyl epidemic. We look forward to working with our partners to continue these efforts."

"Fentanyl, as we all know, is an incredibly addictive, destructive, and deadly drug that's absolutely devastating our communities," said Scott Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney in the District of Oregon.

“Fentanyl traffickers prey on our communities by peddling potentially lethal drugs,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The fentanyl seized by our team in this case could have yielded over 1.5 million lethal doses – enough to kill everyone in Portland twice.  I am proud that the DEA could help our partners bring this surge to a successful conclusion, saving lives here in Portland and throughout Oregon.”

PPB would like to thank its partners for their commitment to public safety and public health, including HIDTA. The HIDTA Interdiction Team (HIT) is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using intelligence-driven, multi-agency, prosecutor-supported approaches. HIT is supported by Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) which is composed of members from the Portland Police Bureau, Homeland Security Investigations, Oregon State Police, Internal Revenue Service, United States Postal Inspection Service, Amtrak Police, and Oregon National Guard Counter-Drug Task Force. The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including HIT.

Photo description: K9 and drugs seized      

Photo description: Drugs seized

Photo description: Drugs seized

Photo description: Drugs seized

Photo description: Firearm seized

###PPB###

On Monday, April 21, 2025, at 10:19 p.m., officers from the North Precinct responded to reports of a vehicle crash involving a pedestrian in the 3100 block of North Going Street. Officers arrived to find that the pedestrian died at the scene. The driver of the involved vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation.

The Portland Police Bureau Major Crash Team has responded to the scene to investigate. During the investigation, the area around North Going Street, North Basin Avenue, North Lagoon Avenue, and North Channel Avenue will be closed to vehicle traffic.

If anyone has information about the incident, please contact crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov, attention Traffic Investigations Unit, and reference case number 25-103320.

###PPB###

The Portland Police Bureau needs the public’s help in locating two individuals who are wanted in connection with a non-fatal fentanyl overdose involving their child. 

The incident occurred at the family's apartment in the 12000 block of Southeast Powell Court in June 2023. A three-year-old child suffered a non-fatal fentanyl overdose that resulted in a severe brain injury. The young boy is now five years old and under the guardianship of a DHS caretaker, and he requires 24-hour medical care.

Following a criminal investigation, the boy’s parents, De’Lone Kelley and Samantha Smith, pled guilty to Assault in the Third Degree and Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree. The couple was supposed to turn themselves in earlier this month, but they have failed to do so, and their whereabouts are currently unknown.

The Portland Police Bureau is seeking the public's help in locating Kelley and Smith. Anyone with information regarding their location is urged to contact Detective Michael Jones at michael.jones@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 23-166659.

Photo description: De’Lone Kelley

Photo description: Samantha Smith

###PPB###

The driver who died in the crash in the East Columbia Neighborhood on March 13, 2025, has been identified as Michael Wayne Boyd, Sr., 65, of Portland.  His family has been notified of his death.

No further information will be released at this time.

###PPB###

Original Message Below

A fatal crash investigation is underway in the East Columbia Neighborhood near Delta Park.

On Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 6:51 p.m., Portland Police officers from North Precinct responded to a report of a crash on North Martin Luther King, Jr Boulevard at North Union Court. They located the crashed vehicle off the roadway south of North Marine Drive. The driver of the vehicle was deceased at the scene. Preliminary investigation indicates that it was a single vehicle crash.

The Portland Police Traffic Division Major Crash Team is responding to the scene to investigate the crash. During the investigation, the southbound lane of North Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard is closed between North Marine Way and North Union Court.

If anyone has information about this crash and have not spoken to police, please e-mail imetips@police.portlandoregon.gov">crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov attn: Traffic Investigations Unit (TIU) and reference case number 25-65287.

The PIO is not responding to the scene. Additional information will be released when appropriate.

###PPB###

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

•Traffic Stops

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

•Restoring the Peace

•Premise Checks

•Welfare Checks

•Flagged Down by Citizen

Tigard Police officers responded to a deadly crash this evening between a vehicle and a pedestrian on SW Gaarde Street.

At 7:16 PM today (4/26/25), officers responded to the crash in the 10800 block of SW Gaarde Street. Officers learned a 48-year-old man who was driving a minivan was heading westbound on Gaarde when he hit a pedestrian. Officers and emergency services attempted CPR, but sadly, the pedestrian died at the scene.

The driver stayed on the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. It does not appear that the driver was speeding or impaired at the time of the crash.

The pedestrian, an adult man, is not being identified at this time pending family notifications.

The Washington County Crash Analysis Reconstruction Team (CART) also responded to the scene, and SW Gaarde was closed temporarily until around 10:30 PM for their investigation.

###

Results are now available from a recent retail theft mission conducted by the Tigard Police Department.

On March 28^th, detectives with the TPD Commercial Crimes Unit conducted the mission at the Target store on SW Hall Boulevard, with support from patrol officers and in partnership with loss prevention employees.

During the one-day proactive enforcement, 10 people were arrested on theft charges and a total of 37 stolen items were recovered, worth more than $600 dollars:

1. Zia Iqbal Ahmad, theft 2, lodged
2. Patricia Trumper, trespass and theft, lodged
3. Juvenile, theft 3, referred to the juvenile department
4. Juvenile, theft 3, referred to the juvenile department
5. Dashawnaa Hudson, theft 3, cited
6. Keondra Spina Denson, failure to return drivers license, cited
7. Alexandra Lee, theft 2, lodged
8. Juvenile, theft 3, referred to the juvenile department
9. Justin Altman, theft 3, cited
10. Holli Ann Pinkston, theft 3, cited

Members of the Commercial Crimes Unit (CCU) participate in retail theft missions throughout the year, to proactively address shoplifting, theft, robbery and other business crime. To learn more about their work, visit www.tigard-or.gov/CCU.

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At 6:57 PM on 4/23/2025 Vancouver Fire was dispatched to the report of a house fire at 15613 SE Evergreen Highway.  Initial crews arrived to find heavy fire coming from a house that was under construction, which made the scene more dangerous.  Crews attacked the fire from the exterior before moving interior to search for people and extinguish the fire.  The scene was deemed to be under control in just over fifty minutes.  Vancouver Fire had twelve units on scene with thirty personnel while Camas/Washougal Fire sent one engine.  No one was home and no firefighters were injured in the fire.  The Vancouver Fire Marshals office is on scene to investigate.

The Vancouver Fire Department would like to remind everyone to check for working smoke detectors twice a year and plan for evacuation in case of a house fire. 

Vancouver, Wash. – On Saturday April 19^th, at around 11:15 a.m., Vancouver Police responded to a multiple vehicle crash in the area of NE 162^nd Avenue/NE 7^th Street. The driver of a Subaru Impreza was traveling northbound on NE 164^th Ave. when he lost control of the vehicle due to speed. His vehicle skidded sideways for approximately 200 feet, hit the center median, jumped over the curb and landed on top of a Honda Civic that was traveling southbound on NE 164 Avenue, crushing the passenger side and top of the car. After the Subaru Impreza hit the Honda, it also hit a Subaru Forester that was traveling just behind the Honda.

The driver of the Impreza was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries and remains hospitalized. The driver of the Subaru Forester suffered multiple fractures and a broken vertebra and remains hospitalized.  The driver of the Honda suffered a few minor cuts and did not require medical treatment.

The Vancouver Police Department Traffic Unit is continuing the investigation.

Photos of the crash are on Vancouver Police Department (@vancouverpoliceusa) • Instagram photos and videos.

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Bend Fire & Rescue was dispatched for a reported fire in Web Cyclery at 157 NW Franklin Ave this morning. The bike shop is located in the historic Old Stone Church in downtown Bend, originally built in 1912.  Staff at the store reported a fire in a light fixture in the attic of the building. They attempted a fire extinguisher, stopping the flames that were first noticed in a ceiling light fixture. But the fire had spread to nearby stored goods by then. All employees and customers evacuated safely before fire crews arrived. Crews found the attic space full of smoke when they arrived and stretched hoses into the building to extinguish the fire. Bend Fire's ladder truck set up and opened holes in the roof to allow smoke out of the attic to aid in extinguishing the fire. The fire was extinguished in approximately 30 minutes. 
 

Bend Fire & Rescue investigators determined the fire to have started when a fluorescent light fixture in the attic storage room failed. The light caught fire, and the flames then spread to adjacent boxes and stored goods in the space. The quick actions of the staff by using an extinguisher while calling 911 at the same time prevented this fire from getting any worse. Damage to the building is estimated to be about $25,000. The damage to the contents of the retail space is considered extensive due to the smoke from the fire. Several dozen high end mountain bikes were destroyed in the attic space due to catching fire. But there is a potential for all clothing and soft goods in the entire building to be considered a loss if they can’t be cleaned of the smoke. This damage could range from $100,000 to $500,000 depending on the extent of damage to the retail items and whether they can be restored for retail use again or not. The business is fully insured and the insurance company had been contacted by the time Bend Fire left the scene.
 

Bend Fire & Rescue commends the actions of the staff of Web Cyclery for their quick actions in preventing this fire from getting any worse. They investigated the smell as soon as it was known. They used an extinguisher for what was a small fire to start off with. But most importantly, they started evacuating the building and calling 911 at the same time another employee was using the extinguisher. These actions ensured everyone was out safe and the fire department was on its way in the event the extinguisher wasn’t enough, as it turned out to be. Bend Fire reminds anyone that uses a fire extinguisher on a fire to call 911 at the same time. If the extinguisher puts the fire out completely, the fire department can ensure the fire didn’t spread and help with the initial clean up. If the extinguisher doesn’t put the fire out completely, we are on the way sooner than later to extinguish the fire completely.

Bend Fire & Rescue, in partnership with the Central Oregon Fire Prevention Co-op, will host a Wildfire Preparedness Fair on Wednesday, April 30 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Central Oregon Community College Mazama Gym (2600 NW College Way, Bend).

The fair is free to attend and will feature giveaways, presentations and tables throughout the evening with important safety information on topics such as:

• Protecting your home before the fire occurs
• Preparing for an evacuation with your family (including pets!)
• Staying healthy when there are high levels of smoke 
• Navigating wildfire insurance
• Grant opportunities to help keep you and your neighborhood prepared

The Central Oregon Fire Prevention Co-Op is a coordinated effort between several public safety agencies whose goal is to promote an interagency exchange of ideas and resources, like wildfire preparedness, by actively participating through coordinated fire and life safety education programs, projects and presentations. Bend Fire & Rescue is a proud partner of this organization and plays an important role in bringing wildfire safety information to Central Oregon residents.

For questions, please contact Bend Fire & Rescue Fire Investigator Melissa Steele at msteele@bendoregon.gov.

MEDIA ADVISORY

Pacific Power to share wildfire season outlook

EUGENE, Ore. - Members of the Oregon National Guard supported the University of Oregon Ducks annual spring football game on April 26, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore. 

The Oregon National Guard held recruiting displays outside the stadium, giving the public a chance to interact with military equipment and speak with service members. 

“We get to showcase what we do, some of the vehicles we have, and what we’re capable of,” said Master Sgt. Brandon Chase, Oregon Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Noncommissioned Officer In Charge of Eugene, Springfield, and Corvallis. “We’re letting them know that we live here and we serve here and we’re huge Duck fans.”

Prior to kickoff, service members, veterans, and their families held a large U.S. flag in the center of the field as Oregon Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Duane Reno with the 234th Army Band sang the national anthem. As the flag was walked off the field, two F-15 Eagles assigned to the 173rd Fighter Wing at Klamath Falls flew overhead.

During halftime, new recruits and some currently serving members of the military took the Oath of Enlistment in the end field. 

At the conclusion of the game, more than 125 service members lined up with the football team to participate in an “End of Game Exchange.”

-30-

It’s International Dark Sky Week, and there's no better place to celebrate than right here in Oregon. Did you know Oregon is home to the largest International Dark Sky Sanctuary on the planet? That’s right—the world. And the Bureau of Land Management Oregon/Washington has the privilege of caring for it!

Spanning an awe-inspiring 2.5 million acres of land in southeastern Oregon, the Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary—with 1.7 million acres proudly managed by the BLM Lakeview District—offers some of the clearest, most pristine views of the night sky you'll find anywhere. On a clear night, you might spot as many as 15,000 stars twinkling above. That’s a lot more than the 500 visible in most urban areas.

“I grew up just outside of Portland, and like most city kids, I never really saw the true night sky,” said Lisa McNee, BLM Public Affairs Specialist. “That all changed when I was 12 and went to a science camp in John Day. We were taken out about a mile from camp, laid on blankets under the stars, and used telescopes to look deep into the universe. That might have been the moment I fell in love with the firmament.”

Whether you’re a stargazing pro or someone who loves the calm of a clear night, there’s something special about seeing the stars the way they were meant to be seen: bright and wild, without city lights in the way.

"That night sky stayed with me,” McNee continued. “For a while, I even wanted to be an astronaut. Eventually, I realized that flying among the stars wasn’t in the cards for me—I like gravity, as it turns out. But even from Earth, I never stopped dreaming while looking up." 

Today, McNee calls the Oregon Outback home—a remote, rugged stretch of southeastern Oregon known for its wild beauty. As part of the BLM’s Lakeview District team, she helps manage the very lands where the night sky remains among the darkest and most pristine in the lower 48.

“We're committed to preserving not only the beauty of our lands but also the magic of the night sky,” said McNee. “Oregon offers some of the darkest, most awe-inspiring skies in the nation, and it's our privilege to help protect the starry sanctuary for future generations to enjoy.”

Know before you go

Venturing into the Oregon Outback or other remote BLM lands takes a little planning:

• Check the weather and road conditions.
• Bring extra water, warm layers, and a red-light flashlight.
• Let someone know your plans.
• Download maps and stargazing apps ahead of time – cell service can be limited.

-BLM-  

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

POLICE POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Police Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on May 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

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

1. Introductions

2. Approve February 20, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Administrative Closures Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)
    Presented by Jennifer Levario

    a) Gregory Baldwin; DPSST No. 23593
        Basic Police Certification

    b) Todd Brightbill; DPSST No. 30976
        Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Supervisory Police Certifications

    c) Brian Bryson; DPSST No. 33308
        Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Supervisory Police, and Basic Corrections Certification

    d) Dexter Dixon; DPSST No. 30571
        Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Police Certifications

    e) Garrick Garland; DPSST No. 32091
        Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Police Certifications

    f) Dina Kashuba; DPSST No. 58371
        Basic Police Certification

    g) Hannah Ramsdell; DPSST No. 62592
        Basic Police Certification

    h) Larry Seymore; DPSST No. 41243
        Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, Supervisory, Management, and Executive Police Certifications

4. Randy Clark; DPSST No. 23388; Central Point Police Department
   Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

5. Almedina Javor; DPSST No. 61328; Columbia River Inter-Tribal Police Department
   Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

6. Michael Kendoll; DPSST No. 53144; Oregon State Police
    Presented by Jennifer Levario

7. Jeffrey Kienlen; DPSST No. 30358; The Dalles Police Department
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

8. Alan Lynn; DPSST No. 31664; Albany Police Department
    Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

9. Kent van der Kamp; DPSST No. 44640; Deschutes County Sheriff's Office
    Presented by Kathy McAlpine and Cindy Park

10. Applicant Review Committee Nominations

11. Agency Updates

12. Next Police Policy Committee Meeting – August 21, 2025, at 10:00 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 Police Policy 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.

PRIVATE SECURITY/INVESTIGATOR POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 1:30 p.m., in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST or Department) located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

To view the Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve February 18, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Christopher Mattison, Private Security Identification No. 088425

   Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

   Presented by Michael Holsapple

4. Adam Weyeneth, Private Security Identification No. 041697

   Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

   Presented by Michael Holsapple

5. Agency Update

6. Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting – August 19, 2025, at 1:30 p.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 Private Security/Private Investigations Policy 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.

BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2025, in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

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

Amended Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Meeting Minutes

    Approve the January 23, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Fire Policy Committee

a. Fire Policy Committee Update – Dan Lenzen, Chair

b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. John Cota, DPSST No. 44136; Tenmile RFPD – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 26, 2025.

B. Jesse McFarland, DPSST No. 44129; Scio RFPD – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 26, 2025.

C. Rhett Sunia, DPSST No. 41600; Coburg RFPD – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 26, 2025.

D. Proposed Rule Changes for OAR 259-009-0005, OAR 259-009-0062, and OAR 259-009-0065

Minimum Standard on Professional Qualifications for Firefighters

E. Committee Appointments

Fire Policy Committee

• • Levi Hopkins – Forest Protection Agencies, Appointment to the FPC, 1st term effective April 24, 2025.

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

a. Police Policy Committee Update – Scotty Nowning, Chair

b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair

c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Matthew English, Chair

d. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. Randall Broome, DPSST No. 56468; Lane County Sheriff's Office – No Action

Unanimous vote with one (1) recusal to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 11, 2025.

B. Bradley McIntyre, DPSST No. 35126; Portland Police Bureau – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 20, 2025.

C. Rafael Munoz, DPSST No. 60210; DOC/Coffee Creek Correctional Facility – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 11, 2025.

D. Tyler Odom, DPSST No. 52085; Frontier Regional 9-1-1 – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on February 5, 2025.

E. Jeremiah Oswald, DPSST No. 60805; Washington County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on PPC on February 20, 2025.

F. Matthew Paton, DPSST No. 44975; Marion County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 11, 2025.

G. Jeremy Pilon, DPSST No. 54019; Newberg-Dundee Police Department – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 20, 2025.

H. Marcus Risteen, DPSST No. 58653; Yamhill County Sheriff's Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 11, 2025.

I. Shelli Taleghani, DPSST No. 60679; TDOC/Two Rivers Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 11, 2025.

J. Approval for Changes to the Corrections Career Officer Development Self-Study Curriculum M23-25A

K. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-008-0085

Codifying Board Approval of the Revisions to the Corrections Career Officer Development Self-Study Course

L. Approval for Changes to the Telecommunicator Field Training Manual and Addition of the Telecommunicator Guidebook

M. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-008-0085

   To Adopt the 2024 Telecommunicator Field Training Manual

N. Committee Appointments

Telecommunications Policy Committee

• • Kathryn Fischer – Representing Telecommunicators, Appointment to the TPC, 1st term effective April 24, 2025.

5. Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

a. Private Security Investigator Policy Committee Update – Dan Lenzen, Chair

b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote).

A. Committee Appointments

Private Security/Investigators Policy Committee

• • Helena Snyder – Currently Licensed Private Investigator, Appointment to the PSIPC, 1st term effective July 27, 2025.
  • Travis Ralph – Armed Security Representative, Appointment to the PSIPC, 1st term effective July 27, 2025

6. Board on Public Safety Standards and Training Chair and Vice-Chair Nominations – Kathy McAlpine

7. Public Safety Memorial Fund Board Membership – Kathy McAlpine

8. Annual Director's Evaluation – Chair English

9. Agency Updates – Agency Director, Phil Castle

10. Next Meeting Date: July 24, 2025, at 9:00 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 Board members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.

The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) and Oregon AFL-CIO invite the public to attend the Workers Memorial Day observance on Monday, April 28, in Salem. The ceremony will recognize, remember, and honor those who died of work-related injuries and illnesses in 2024.

The event will take place at 12:30 p.m. at the Fallen Worker Memorial outside the Labor and Industries Building, 350 Winter St. NE, on the Capitol Mall. The memorial service, coordinated by Oregon AFL-CIO, will feature remarks from union leaders, safety and health advocates, elected officials, and faith leaders.

“Every day, people across Oregon go to work to provide for themselves and their families, to help their fellow Oregonians and make the state a thriving place to live,” Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek said. “Today, we honor the Oregonians whose lives were tragically lost doing their job and offer our deepest condolences to their families. Today, we recommit to our efforts to make working conditions safer and protect workers across the state.”

During the ceremony, the names of Oregon workers who died on the job in 2024 will be read aloud. The event will include a reading of Gov. Kotek’s proclamation, and remarks by Oregon OSHA Administrator Renée Stapleton and Oregon AFL-CIO President Graham Trainor.  

Oregon workplaces are safer and healthier today than in previous decades. Yet, there are still far too many preventable on-the-job deaths each year.

“Job safety laws remain far too weak, allowing employers to endanger employees often without repercussion,” Trainor said. “Oregon’s unions will always stand up against any attack on the safety and health of working people. On this solemn day, we honor the workers who did not make it home and demand increased safety, more severe consequences for safety violators, and dignity at work.”

Through a partnership of government, labor, and business working together to improve workplace safety and health, Oregon’s fatality and injury and illness rates have steadily declined for decades.

Nevertheless, the annual Workers Memorial Day observance serves as a reminder to renew our call to protect workers from on-the-job hazards. Under the Oregon Safe Employment Act, employers must maintain safe and healthy workplaces, and workers have a right to safe and healthy working conditions.

“Workers Memorial Day is not just a day of remembrance,” Stapleton said. “It is a day to renew our call to action. It is a day to revitalize our commitment to our mission: to create safe and healthy workplaces, where the risk of death is eliminated and where every worker returns home at the end of their shift, safe and sound.”

The annual Workers Memorial Day serves as a nationwide day of remembrance. The observance is traditionally held on April 28 because the U.S. Congress passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act on that date in 1970.

Oregon OSHA encourages employers and workers to use free workplace safety and health resources. Those resources include:

Oregon OSHA

• Rights and responsibilities
• Protect against retaliation
• Consultation services
• Technical services
• Keeping employees safe
• Education and training

DCBS Multicultural Communications Program

• Providing outreach to communities with limited English proficiency

Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers

• Independent advocate for Oregon workers, including guidance on workers’ rights and responsibilities in workers’ compensation and workplace safety and health

###

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.

About Oregon AFL-CIO: Oregon AFL-CIO is the statewide federation of affiliated unions, representing more than 300,000 working Oregonians. Visit https://www.oraflcio.org/.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
April 24, 2025 

Media Contact 
503-934-3310 
licinfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_Publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov 

SALEM, OR – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) outlined the impact the April 4 announcement from FEMA canceling the fiscal year 2024 Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program has on Oregon. The cancellation, detailed in a memo from Acting Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Cameron Hamilton, outlines a review of BRIC programs from fiscal years 2020 through 2023 for programs communities depend on across the state.  

In addition, FEMA issued an updated advisory on April 16 further clarifying that: "as the program is concluding, the Fiscal Year 2024 BRIC funding opportunity is cancelled, no applications submitted will be reviewed and no funds will be awarded. In addition, for all BRIC applications from Fiscal Years 2020-2023, if grant funds have not been distributed to states, tribes, territories and local communities, funds will be returned either to the Disaster Relief Fund or the U.S. Treasury.” 

The BRIC grant program gives money to help communities prepare for natural disasters before they happen. For example, BRIC funds can be used to build better levees to help prevent the kind of flooding we’ve seen recently in Harney County. BRIC helps build safer roads, buildings, and other important things to keep people and property safe during a disaster. Currently, the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program is unaffected in Oregon. 

What this means:  

• Projects that were selected but not yet awarded won’t receive funding. 
• Ongoing projects may be delayed or stopped short of construction. 
• Money set aside for managing these efforts could be pulled back.  
• Without extensions or continued support, communities across Oregon will face delays or cancellations in vital infrastructure improvements designed to reduce risk and protect lives. 

FEMA is conducting a full review of active and obligated BRIC projects before further work to help Oregonians prepare for disasters in the future can continue.   

“These decisions will significantly impact communities across Oregon working to reduce disaster risk and invest in safer, more resilient infrastructure,” said OEM Director Erin McMahon. “We are actively working with federal and state legislators to communicate these financial impacts and with FEMA partners to gain clarity on next steps and timelines. I have directed my team to conduct our own review to see what projects may fit within other Hazard Mitigation Assistance grants through federal partners that are currently funded like the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant or other state grant programs.” 

The Impact on Oregon: 

• Federal share of BRIC projects: $140 million  
• Local matching share of BRIC projects: $90 million  
• Total local sunk costs: 8 of the 26 projects have a combined total of $8 million in sunk costs (details below). 
• Impact on submitted budgets: Due to funding delays and their effect on project timelines, even if the grants were reinstated, some projects will be priced out as they locked cost estimates years ago when inflation and tariffs were lower, but those locked in prices are set to expire and the new cost could be significantly higher.   

During remarks yesterday to the media, Governor Kotek referenced cuts to the BRIC grants: “These are bipartisan or nonpartisan community projects that everybody supports. I have not heard one rationale from the Trump Administration as to why they cancelled the BRIC grants.” She was speaking specifically about a project in Mapleton that received grant funding to assist with necessary upgrades to the town’s water infrastructure. You can view the full remarks at around the 25-minute mark here. 

To stay informed, OEM encourages interested parties to sign up for alerts when updates are posted on the federal action webpage: https://www.oregon.gov/oem/Pages/Federal-Changes.aspx 

Details about the 8 projects with sunk costs: 

City of Port Orford  

Utility and Infrastructure Protection Project. This project aims to address vulnerabilities in the City of Port Orford’s drinking water supply infrastructure caused by earthquakes, drought, and wildfire. It includes the installation of water meters, as well as the design, replacement, and retrofit of strategic sections of the water distribution system. The grant would ensure that the city has sufficient water to meet average daily demand while maintaining adequate emergency storage to withstand and respond to natural hazards. The project would impact a population of 1,146 residents. 

• Federal Share: $6,566,537  
• Local Share: $691,214 
• Sunk cost: $273,350 

Medford Water Commission     

Utility and Infrastructure Protection Project. This project will conduct critical infrastructure improvements at four system locations as part of the Rogue Valley Water Supply Resiliency Program (RVWSRP). The goal is to enhance the resilience of the water system against seismic events, wildfires, and droughts caused by extreme weather conditions. 

• Federal Share: $34,806,505               
• Local Share: $14,516,834 
• Sunk cost $1,875,370  

City of Grants Pass           

Water Treatment Plant Relocation Project. This project aims to relocate the Water Treatment Plant outside the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) to prevent system failure during a flooding event. The City of Grants Pass has made substantial investments in the comprehensive design of the project, contributing over 50% of the required cost match. The loss of federal grant funds jeopardizes the broader system project scope, which exceeds twice the federal contribution. To date, the city has invested over $5 million in pre-award technical engineering and design, in addition to sunk costs incurred during the subapplication process.  

• Federal Share: $50,000,000               
• Local Share: $60,800,302 
• Sunk cost: $5,000,000 

Clatsop County Government / City of Astoria Columbie Memorial Hospital        

Tsunami Vertical Evacuation Refuge Structure (TVERS) Project. This project integrates a Tsunami Vertical Evacuation Refuge Structure (TVERS) into the Columbia Memorial Hospital expansion, creating a multi-purpose facility designed to shelter the impacted population at an elevated level above tsunami inundation zones. 

• Federal Share: $13,897,122               
• Local Share: $5,955,909 
• Sunk cost $817,846 

Oregon Department of Land Conservation & Development     

Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan. Updates to the Natural Hazard Mitigation Plans (NHMP) for the Burns Paiute Tribe, as well as Columbia and Umatilla Counties, aim to enhance emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts while mitigating the future impacts of natural disasters. 

• Federal Share: $488,653       
• Local Share: $152,704 
• Sunk cost $8,347 

Oregon Military Department - Office of Emergency Management (pre-OEM) 
FY2021 Grant Management Costs 

• Federal Share: $488,257       
• Sunk cost from the State of Oregon’s General Fund: $39,500  

Oregon Military Department - Office of Emergency Management (pre-OEM) 
FY 2022 Grant Management Costs   

• Federal Share: $19,695,731               
• Sunk cost from the State of Oregon’s General Fund: $73,141 

Oregon Military Department - Office of Emergency Management (pre-OEM) 
FY 2023 Grant Partnership Costs 

• Federal Share: $1,261,848  
  Sunk cost from the State of Oregon’s General Fund: $79,029 

# # #

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem.

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licInfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711.

SALEM, Ore. — The Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee will meet on Monday, April 28, from 9 a.m. to noon at the ODF Headquarters, Building C, Tillamook Room, 2600 State Street, Salem. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Welcome and introductions
• Overview of certification to date
• Curriculum updates and training delivery
• Prescribed Fire Liability Pilot Program
• Continuing education
• Review of approved CBM rule revisions
• Updates
  • Past and future course deliveries
  • Legislation
  • ODF prescribed fire policy development

The meeting is open to the public to attend either in-person or virtually. There will be a period for public comment. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting y.berry@odf.oregon.gov">Shelby Berry at 503-949-5181.

View more information on the CBMAC webpage.

Oregon's 2021 Legislature passed Senate Bill 762 requiring the Oregon Department of Forestry to establish a Certified Burn Manager Program. It is the duty of the Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee to advise the Oregon Department of Forestry on the program and the collection of information and data surrounding prescribed burns and follow the progress toward meeting federal and state air quality standards.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Child Welfare Director is sharing details of a broad effort underway to improve safety for children in foster care and children who come to the attention of Child Welfare through a call to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline.

“The safety of children is our highest priority, and while the Child Welfare system has significantly improved in recent years, we know there is more work to do to ensure children are safe, both in our care and in the community,” said ODHS Child Welfare Director, Aprille Flint-Gerner.

Improvement plans are focused on the following goals:

• Workforce development: Child Welfare needs a strong, supported workforce with access to resources, tools and knowledge to keep children safe. Initiatives in this area include enhanced training, changes to assessment policy and procedure, and technology improvements to help caseworkers work more efficiently.
   
• Public engagement and trust: To keep children safe, the community needs to understand how to build safety around families and how to report concerns to the Child Abuse Hotline. A new mandatory reporter training for the public, a companion “mandatory supporter training,” and more easily accessible information online about child safety and progress will help meet this goal.
   
• Vulnerable populations. Oregon faces multifaceted challenges around supporting families and children with complex needs. Child Welfare has safety initiatives around children who have been trafficked, children with disabilities, and children who need substance abuse treatment.

More details on these efforts can be found at this link.

Child Welfare is partnering with national experts to inform strategies and measure success of these ongoing efforts. Human Services Group (HSG) will partner with Child Welfare to conduct a review during the next 90-120 days to evaluate current safety-related practices, make recommendations that build on current practices and resources that help to safeguard vulnerable children in Oregon. The agency is also working with the neutral expert hired through in the collaborative agreement from the class action-lawsuit settled last year to conduct an initial review of the Oregon child welfare system and working with the department to develop outcome measures.

“Safety is core to the mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services, and our staff work hard each day to protect the most vulnerable populations, including children, older adults and people with disabilities,” said Fariborz Pakseresht, ODHS Director. “We are committed to continuously evaluating our work, to ensure we are doing all we can to support safety in all settings and communities.”

About the Oregon Department of Human Services

The mission of ODHS is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity. 

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Due to ongoing impacts from the March 16, 2025, floods, mudslides, and power outages in Harney County, Oregon has received approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to extend the 10-Day Timely Reporting requirement for requesting replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits that was spoiled or destroyed.

New deadline for SNAP replacement benefits in Harney County
Households in Harney County now have until April 30, 2025, to report food losses related to this event and request replacement SNAP benefits.

Approved County for the waiver extension:
Residents of the following county are eligible for the extended deadline:

• Harney County

Counties not included in the waiver:
For individuals in all other Oregon counties, the standard 10-day reporting requirement remains in effect. Food spoiled or destroyed in disaster or misfortune must be reported within 10 days of the incident, and verification may be required.

How to request SNAP replacement benefits:
Individuals in affected areas can request replacement benefits using one of the following methods:

• By phone: Call 1-800-699-9075 or 711 (TTY)

• In person: Visit your local office (find locations at Oregon.gov)

• By mail: ONE Customer Service Center
  PO Box 14015 Salem, OR 97309

• By email: Send requests to Oregon.Benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov

• Online: Submit requests via the ONE online portal

Download and use the updated Form 0349D to make a request:
https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/de0349d.pdf

Salem, OR—With Tax Day in the rearview mirror, now is a good time for Oregon taxpayers to think about doing a paycheck checkup to make sure they are having the right amount of money withheld from each paycheck.

“If you received a large refund from the state and think that money could be put to better use in your monthly budget, or if you had to scrape money together to pay taxes due, then you might want to consider using our Withholding Calculator,” said Megan Denison, administrator of the Oregon Department of Revenue’s Personal Tax and Compliance Division.

A new Department of Revenue video explains how to use the calculator and what information taxpayers will need to complete their paycheck checkup. Taxpayers can be assured that the calculator doesn’t collect personal information—they won’t even be asked to enter their name—and the wage and deductions information taxpayers enter isn’t kept and stored by the department.

“Using the Withholding Calculator can help taxpayers have more of their hard earned money to pay their bills each month and it can help prevent the unwelcome surprise of a big state income tax bill next year,” Denison said.

The IRS also provides a free online tool that helps workers, independent contractors and retirees determine if they are having the right amount of federal income tax withheld from their paychecks.

To get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make payments, visit our website or email questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.

You can also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), we accept all relay calls.
 

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Average Oregon emergency department visit is 5.2 hours, dashboard shows 

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) announced its Down Payment Assistance (DPA) program helped another 269 Oregonians buy a home in 2024.

DPA-funded organizations disbursed almost $10 million to homebuyers, with an average of $28,315 per homebuyer for homes across Oregon that cost, on average, $339,689. Additionally, 150 of the homebuyers identified as first-generation and 55% identified as people of color.

Angele Graham of White City in Jackson County was one homebuyer who was able to get a new home using DPA. Graham’s journey to homeownership began in 2017, but a series of financial and health setbacks, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, prevented her from realizing her dream. Her situation became worse after her landlord sold her rental home and the new owner raised her rent by 60%.

Graham was running out of options until ACCESS, a community action agency serving Jackson County, received a DPA grant from OHCS that she was able to use for a down payment. Coupled with a USDA Direct Loan and a housing voucher provided by the Housing Authority of Jackson County (HAJC), Graham was able to close on a place she could call her own.

“Angele has set a wonderful example of perseverance and hard work to pursue a dream,” said Denise Lupton, housing supervisor at ACCESS. “During her long journey, she faced a lot of challenges but never gave up hope. Combined with local and state programs, such as OHCS’ Down Payment Assistance, Angele’s path to homeownership is now a reality. My team and I are so proud of her and are grateful to have been part of her homebuying process.”

OHCS’ DPA program, which is now funded by the Home Ownership Assistance Program (HOAP) and Construction Excise Tax (CET) proceeds, was created in 2011 and since has helped 1,543 households.

“It’s truly inspiring to see Angele achieve her dream of homeownership. Her story highlights the vital role that OHCS’ Down Payment Assistance program plays in creating pathways to stability and generational opportunity,” said Keeble Giscombe, director of Homeownership at OHCS. “This program empowers historically underserved Oregonians to invest in themselves, their families, and their futures. I’m thrilled for Angele as she experiences the many joys and rewards of homeownership.”

To learn more about OHCS’ various DPA programs, including one for veterans, visit the OHCS website. View OHCS’ homeownership data dashboards at https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/oregon.housing.and.community.services/vizzes and click on the DPA tab to get more detailed information. 

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. Visit OHCS’ website for more information.

Salem, Ore. – Oregon Lottery is celebrating a big milestone – it’s been 40 years since the first tickets were sold on April 25, 1985, creating dreams for future millionaires while supporting state programs and retailers.

To commemorate the anniversary, Oregon Lottery created a 40^th Anniversary Scratch-it, themed after Lottery’s very first game, Pot of Gold. The ticket is on sale now for $30 and features 25 top prizes of $40,000.   

With voter approval, Oregon Lottery was originally created to help jump-start the state’s economy by supporting economic development. It wasn’t until 1995 when voters approved an amendment to allocate Lottery funds for public education. Since then, other beneficiaries were added such as state parks, outdoor school, veterans services, and more. Lottery is now the state’s second largest funding source after personal income tax, contributing over $16.5 billion to state programs.

“For decades, Lottery revenue has helped support inspiring teachers, brave veterans, curious students, and innovative businesses,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells.  “As we look to the future, we remain committed to operating the lottery as a stable and reliable source of funding for our state.”

More than 200 retailers big and small have been with Oregon Lottery since the beginning, including well-known names such as Safeway, McKay’s Market, Plaid Pantry, Roth’s Fresh Markets, Thriftway, 7-Eleven, and Fred Meyer stores. 

"Fred Meyer is proud to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Oregon Lottery,” said Tiffany Sanders, corporate affairs manager for Fred Meyer. “Over the years, the Oregon Lottery has contributed significantly to education, parks, and vital state programs, making a lasting impact on the lives of Oregonians. Here's to 40 years of fun, excitement, and community growth, and to many more years of making a difference together!"

Greek Village is a locally-owned retailer near Cedar Hills. The restaurant/lounge was amongst the inaugural establishments to sell Oregon Lottery games and was founded by current owner Irene Pavlatos’ father in 1971. She now runs the business and is able to pay her cooks more than many competitors because of the boost from offering Lottery games. In one recent instance, she was able to help an employee who suffered a personal hardship with Lottery sales commissions paid to her business.

“We have that room to give her a bonus,” she said. “It allows us to do a lot of good that we wouldn’t be able to do without it.” 

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

SEASIDE, Oregon— Saddle Mountain State Natural Area is scheduled for multiple temporary closures due to construction and tree projects with the first one starting May 6 through May 10 and additional closures in late summer and fall 2025.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) in May to remove potentially hazardous trees along Highway 26 near Saddle Mountain.

The work will begin May 5 and include intermittent lane closures on Highway 26 and Saddle Mountain Road for the first few days of the project. Saddle Mountain State

Natural Area will be closed temporarily May 6 and is expected to reopen May 10.

The collaboration gives OPRD additional support in removing trees that pose a risk to park infrastructure, visitors and their property while providing an opportunity for ODOT sawyers to get tree felling training.

Saddle Mountain State Natural Area is also scheduled to close for several additional projects in late summer and fall 2025.

• August: Bridge repair work that is slated to last about one week.
• August/September: Road repair project that includes repaving or overlaying seven of the nine miles of Saddle Mountain Road as well as culvert repair and replacement of crushed stone along road shoulders. The work is scheduled to last about one month.
• Fall: Crews will remove hazard trees and fire-damaged trees and thin some areas for forest health. The work is slated to last two to four months depending on the weather and construction schedules.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will share additional information and dates for the closures as they become available. For updates, please check the park webpage at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=140.

On May 8, 2025 the Oregon Historic Cemeteries Grant committee will meet to score and rank the applications for the Oregon Historic Cemeteries Grant program. The recommendations from the committee will be forwarded to the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries for final review and approval on May 27, 2025. The meeting will be held online at 9:00 a.m. Interested parties may register to access the meeting by Zoom. The meeting agenda includes the registration information.

State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling 503-986-0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For information about the grants contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

JOHN DAY, Oregon— Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site welcomes visitors to its Interpretive Center and historic building for the 2025 season starting Friday, May 2.

The Kam Wah Chung building is a National Historic Landmark that preserves the home and businesses of two Chinese immigrants, Ing "Doc" Hay and Lung On. For more than 60 years the building was a social, medical and religious center for Oregon's Chinese community.

The Interpretive Center will be open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (closed 11 a.m. to noon for lunch). The historic building and Interpretive Center will be closed Monday through Thursday during May and possibly into June due to staffing levels at the site. Check the website for hours of operation throughout the season: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=5

Tours of the historic building will run at the top of every hour, the last one beginning at 3 p.m. The free, 45-minute historic building tour begins at the Interpretive Center at 125 NW Canton Street in John Day. Space is limited to 8 people per tour.

For more information or questions about booking tours and operating hours, please call the park office at 541-575-2800.

For those who won't have the opportunity to visit this heritage site this season, you can learn more about the site and Chinese American history in Oregon through these online resources:

• Oregon Chinese Diaspora Project
• National Historic Landmark Nomination: Kam Wah Chung Company Building
• Oregon Encyclopedia: Chinese Americans in Oregon and Kam Wah Chung and Co.
• Oregon Historical Society: Beyond Chinatown: Uncovering Oregon’s Rural Chinese History and Centering Chinese History in Oregon and Herbs & Roots: A History of Chinese Doctors in the American Medical Marketplace

Coburg – The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet May 4 in Eugene for a tour of the Museum of Natural and Cultural History and May 5 in Coburg for the Business Meeting.
 

The agenda includes an update on the 2026 Oregon Heritage Plan process, a presentation by the Lane County Parks Advisory Committee on the County covered bridges, a presentation by the Oregon Museums Association on the updated strategic plan, a report on the historic resources survey work in Cottage Grove, a tour of downtown Cottage Grove by Coburg Main Street, and more.
 

This meeting is open to the public and there is an opportunity at the beginning of the meeting for public comment. Public comment can be made in person, online, or by written submission. For online attendance, registration is required. To view the full agenda, register for the virtual meeting, or learn more about public comment options, visit here.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0690 or y.Newcomb@oprd.oregon.gov">Mary.Newcomb@oprd.oregon.gov at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting.
 

The Heritage Commission’s nine Governor appointed members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic, and institutional interests. The Commission’s nine advisory members include representatives from the Oregon State Library, Oregon State Archives, State Historical Records Advisory Board, Higher Education Coordinating Committee, Travel Oregon, Oregon Historical Society, Department of Education, State Historic Preservation Office, and the Department of Land Conservation and Development.
 

The Commission is the primary agency for coordination of heritage activities in the state. This includes carrying out the Oregon Heritage Plan, increasing efficiency and avoiding duplication among interest groups, developing plans for coordination among agencies and organizations, encouraging tourism related to heritage resources, and coordinating statewide anniversary commemorations.
 

More information about the Oregon Heritage Commission is available online at www.oregonheritage.org and from Commission coordinator Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov. 
 

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The City of Jefferson has received a grant through the federal Historic Preservation Fund, administered by Oregon State Historic Preservation Office to fund the following local preservation projects.

City of Jefferson
Conser House – 114 N Main St.
$16,000
Add HVAC, Electrical, and removable insulation to the second story.

This notice serves to make the public aware of the projects and solicit comments pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the National Environmental Policy Act. The comment period is open for 30 days from the date of this announcement. To provide comments or learn more information about this project visit the federal grant public comment section of our website or contact Kuri Gill at i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 authorizes a program of federal matching grants, known as the Historic Preservation Fund, to assist the various states in carrying out historic preservation activities. The Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, and in Oregon, is administered through the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office. For information about the grants contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

The Oregon State Marine Board held its quarterly hybrid meeting in Salem at the agency’s office and via Microsoft Teams on April 24, 2025. The meeting agenda was mostly informational for the Board: boat operations and park access to Lake Oswego, update on abandoned derelict vessel removals on the Willamette River with allocated America’s Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, and a primer on mini-jet boats.

In its only decision-making item, the Board accepted a petition by the Siletz Tribes to consider rulemaking to prohibit the use of motors above Jack Morgan Park on the Siletz River. The use of a jet pump drive is currently prohibited. The Board accepted the petition and opened the rulemaking process, which included convening a rule advisory committee with a balance of representatives and agency partners to share perspectives and aid in developing proposed rule language or finding other creative solutions. The Board asked for staff to report back for its October meeting.  

To view the meeting replay and materials, visit the Marine Board’s Public Meetings page.
 

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Mosier, Oregon – The Memaloose Rest Area, located near mile maker 72.9, on I-84, (six miles east of Mosier, OR), will temporarily close to allow for the completion of a rest room building renovation and expansion project. Eastbound parking lots and facilities will close starting on April 22, 2025. Westbound parking lots and facilities will close on or around May 1, 2025; however, the westbound exit will remain open to allow access to the entrance of Memaloose State Park. Both sides of the rest area will open to the public by July 1, 2025.  Travelers are advised to plan and make use of alternative rest areas or services in the vicinity. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience as these critical improvements are made.

The Memaloose Rest Area Building Renovation and Expansion Project will upgrade and expand the existing facilities to improve restroom capacity, ensure compliance with ADA standards, and implement necessary building improvements by adding approximately 200 square feet to the women's and men's facilities. The additions will add three standard stalls and one ADA stall to each facility, as well as upgraded toilets, urinals, lights, partitions, sinks, tile, and flooring.  This project will improve safety and decrease wait times by doubling the restroom capacity.

The Travel Information Council approved the expenditure of $1.7 million dollars for the project.  Funding for this capital project was allocated by the Oregon Legislature as part of HB 2017 to make improvements at rest areas.  After the open competitive bid process was completed, the project was awarded to Constructions Services Group of Vancouver, WA.  

The Travel Information Council, a semi-independent state agency, was created by the State of Oregon in the 1970s to operate the highway blue logo sign program following the Highway Beautification Act. The agency now also operates the Oregon Historical Marker and Heritage Tree Programs as well as 39 rest areas at 25 locations in Oregon, providing clean, safe, and inviting locations that are open and free to use 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Reference Coordinating Council

Online

April 28, 2025, 11:00 a.m.

AGENDA

11:00 am         Welcome and introductions

11:15 am         General Business

• Updates
• Approve minutes from Fall 2024 meeting
• Select future meeting dates

11:45 am         Wrap up

12:00 pm         Adjourn

Vancouver, Wash. ̵ Clark County Treasurer Alishia Topper will open the drive-through tax-payment drop-off window for the final two days of April, adding a convenient payment option for customers to meet the April 30 property tax due date.

The drive-through kiosk will be available from 9 am to 4 pm on Tuesday, April 29, and Wednesday, April 30, at the east entrance of the parking structure at the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St.

This convenient option is for pre-written check payments only. No other forms of payment will be accepted at the kiosk.

For additional convenience, a secure drop box is located inside the Public Service Center on the first floor. Taxpayers may seal their check payments in an envelope and drop them off between 8 am and 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

Online payment options are also available. Taxpayers may pay via:

• E-Check (free) from a checking or savings account
• Debit card for a flat fee of $3.95
• Credit card with a 2.39% vendor fee

To pay online, visit: www.clark.wa.gov/treasurer/payment-options or call 1.833.440.8685.
To receive your tax statement electronically and manage your property taxes online, visit: www.paydici.com/clark-county-wa/search/landing.

Tax payments can also be mailed to:
Clark County Treasurer
PO Box 35150
Seattle, WA 98124-5150

Please use the return envelope and payment coupon included with your statement.

For in-person assistance, the Joint Lobby is open Monday through Thursday, 9 am to 4 pm. It is on the second floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St.

The Treasurer’s Office is available by phone and email Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm.
Visit clark.wa.gov/treasurer or call 564.397.2252 for more information.

To avoid interest charges, payments must be postmarked no later than Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Assessor’s office property tax exemption specialists will make a presentation on the property tax relief program at an upcoming Vancouver City Council meeting at Vancouver City Hall.

The presentation is scheduled for 6:30 pm Monday, May 5, during the city council meeting at City Hall, 415 West Sixth St.

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

Exemption specialists will be available to help enroll applicants in the program 9 am to 3 pm Friday, May 23, at the Luepke Senior Center, 1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd.

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

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

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council and Planning Commission have scheduled work sessions on climate change planning.

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 council work session is scheduled for the morning of Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Council work sessions begin that day at 9 a.m. The climate change work session will be second on the agenda. This work session is intended as an informational briefing for council on the climate change planning project to provide a project update.

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

The meeting materials can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/community-planning/2025-update-meeting-and-event-information.

Information on how to attend the meeting can be found on the council’s meeting page at https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/clark-county-council-meetings. A recording of the meeting will also be posted on this webpage for viewing later.

The Planning Commission will hold two work sessions that are scheduled for 5:30 pm Thursday, May 1, and Thursday, June 5, 2025.

The work sessions are intended as an informational briefing for planning commission on the climate change planning project. Key focus areas for each work session are as follows:

• May 1: Project update and review of proposed climate chapter countywide planning policies
• June 5: Review of proposed climate chapter 20-year county planning policies

The Planning Commission meetings 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.

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

All three work sessions are open to the public, however there will be no public comment as part of the events.

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.

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

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

The presentation will be 7 pm on Monday, April 28, at the Washougal City Council meeting in Washougal Council Chambers 1701 C St.

Exemption specialists will be available to help enroll applicants at Washougal Community Center, 1681 C St. from 9 am to 1 pm Friday, May 16.

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

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

Vancouver, Wash. – The board of the Clark County Public Facilities District will hold a public meeting 4-5 p.m. Monday, May 5, 2025.

The meeting will be on the Teams platform. Anyone wishing to attend the meeting can click here to join the meeting and use the meeting password Ht2v4yn6 or call +1.213.262.7043 and use the access code 679 906 417#.

The Public Facilities District was formed in 2002 for the purpose of participating in the study, planning and development of one or more regional centers that would promote tourism, such as the convention center in downtown Vancouver and exhibition hall at the Clark County Fairgrounds.

The board is comprised of five-members and an alternate member.

The board typically tries to meet on the first Monday of February, May, August and November. 

Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Works, Parks and Nature is beginning construction on a parking lot and safety improvement project at Harmony Sports Complex.

This summer, 200 paved parking stalls will be added, drive lanes in the parking lot will be paved, and a new access point will be constructed at the intersection of Northeast 192nd Avenue and Northeast 13th Street.

Work begins on the site on Monday, April 21. Though a portion of the parking lot will be closed during construction, the county, Harmony Sports Association and the contractor are coordinating to allow the complex to remain open during work and minimize, where possible, the impacts to parking and traffic.

The Harmony Sports Complex is approximately 58 acres located at 1500 NE 192nd Avenue. While the property is county-owned, it is located within the city limits of Vancouver. The Harmony Sports Association has leased, managed and operated the sports complex in partnership with Clark County since 1982. The facility operates year-round and provides facilities for baseball, and soccer. 

More information and construction updates can be found on the project webpage at clark.wa.gov/public-works/harmony-sports-complex.

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

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

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

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

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

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Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County is performing required maintenance on more than one mile of track on the county-owned Chelatchie Prairie Railroad, from milepost 23.16 to milepost 24.3. The project also includes tree trimming and clearing brush and vegetation.

As the railroad's owner, the county is required by law to maintain the infrastructure to meet regulatory requirements.

Construction is scheduled to begin in April/May and is weather-dependent. Impacts to the public will be minimal. During construction, drivers may experience short delays at the railroad crossing at Lucia Falls Road when construction equipment accesses the rail at the crossing or an excursion train passes. The automatic lights and crossing arm will be disabled during construction, and flaggers will stop traffic for the train to pass.

Maintenance work on the railroad this spring also includes painting bridge bearings on the railroad bridge crossing Northeast Highway 99 just south of Northeast 63rd Street. Lane closures on Highway 99 will be required during work; at least one lane in each direction will be open at all times. More information will be posted on the project webpage as it becomes available.

Updates will be posted on the project webpage at clark.wa.gov/public-works/railroad-projects.

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

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

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

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

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

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Vancouver, Wash. –  The Clark County Green Business program is celebrating Earth Day by recognizing local leaders in environmental sustainability with Green Awards. The annual awards feature four new categories this year. The new categories demonstrate the ongoing journey businesses must embark on to consistently reduce their environmental impacts and engage with employees and community members to set and achieve new sustainability goals. 

Here are the 2025 Green Awards winners:  

PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center – Seeds of Sustainability  
PeaceHealth is a not-for-profit health care system with medical centers, critical access hospitals and medical clinics in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth is always exploring opportunities to reduce waste sent to landfill and increase reuse and recycling. They now divert over 5.8 tons of polypropylene surgical “blue wrap” annually and have reduced the need for 371 tons of disposable surgical supplies by switching to sterilizable items that can be reused. They keep food out of the landfill and reduce gas emissions by using an anaerobic digester and sending kitchen food scraps to a local farm to be used for animal feed. They have also reduced water and energy consumption by improving their lighting and HVAC systems, installing smart water sprinklers, and implementing water reduction practices in their laboratory.  

Simply Thyme Catering – Sustainability Legacy  
Simply Thyme Catering is committed to providing high-quality, sustainable and customized meal solutions. They specialize in creating fresh and dietary-conscious meals while prioritizing environmental responsibility in every aspect of the business. From locally sourced ingredients to eco-friendly packaging, Simply Thyme Catering integrates sustainability into their daily operations. At Simply Thyme Catering, every usable food scrap is repurposed — whether incorporated into broths, frozen for future use, or composted. If food is no longer fit for human consumption, it is fed to goats, chickens and cows, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. Additionally, Simply Thyme Catering tackles plastic waste head-on. Catering requires significant use of plastic wrap, but they mitigate the use by collecting, reusing and recycling plastic responsibly.  

TSMC Washington – Sustainability Trailblazer   
TSMC Washington is a semiconductor manufacturer on 260 acres in Camas. The company’s 1-million-square-foot fabrication complex includes approximately 130,000 square feet of clean room space to manufacture computer chips. TSMC Washington's pursuit of a "Zero Waste-to-Landfill" certification, combined with the implementation of composting, color-coded waste sorting systems and staff education on waste reduction makes them a standout leader in waste reduction practices in Clark County. Through innovative and trailblazing sustainability solutions, they have diverted 1.25 million pounds of wastewater filter cakes for reuse, launched a sitewide color-coded waste sorting system, operated on 100% renewable energy since 2018 and added nine greenhouse gas abatement units to reduce their emissions even further. 

Evergreen Habitat for Humanity, Clark County store – Community Champion  
The Clark County Habitat for Humanity Store is a home improvement store and donation center that sells new and gently used furniture, home decor, appliances, building materials and more at discounted prices. Proceeds from the store support the organization's homebuilding and repair programs, directly contributing to affordable housing in the county. They divert over 100 tons of waste from unsellable items every year, thanks in part to their volunteer-run recycling station that disassembles these items for material-specific recycling. The store also offers free community drop-off options for recycling household batteries and paint – recycling over 4,000 pounds of paint each year. They partner with local nonprofits and small businesses to find creative reuse opportunities for items that can't be sold or recycled, including donating slow-selling dishes to "rage rooms." In 2024, they reduced their own operational waste by 57 tons compared to 2023 – nearly doubling their goal for the year. 

The four award winners will be honored at a ceremony in May. The Clark County Green Business program thanks the businesses and organizations that submitted applications for this year’s Green Awards and encourages applicants to apply again next year.  

Visit the Green Business website to learn more about the program and see past Green Awards winners.  

Astoria, OR. — Clatsop County is preparing for the May 20, 2025, Regular District Election, and voters are encouraged to take note of important deadlines and updates.

Key Dates:

• April 29 – Voter registration deadline
• April 30 – Ballots begin mailing to local voters
• May 20 – Election Day – Ballots must be postmarked or dropped off by 8 p.m.
• June 16 – Deadline to certify election results

Voters’ Pamphlet:

The Clatsop County Voters’ Pamphlet will be mailed to voters the week of April 21 and is also available online at clatsopcounty.gov/elections. The pamphlet includes candidate information and measure details to help voters make informed decisions.

How to Register to Vote:

• Online: Oregon Secretary of State – Register to Vote
• In person: Clatsop County Clerk & Elections Office, 820 Exchange Street, Astoria
• By mail: Registration forms must be postmarked by April 29

Voting by Mail or Drop Box:

Ballots must be postmarked by May 20 or returned to a drop box by 8 p.m. that day.

Official Ballot Drop Sites for the May 20, 2025 Election:

• Clatsop County Clerk & Elections Office – 820 Exchange St, Astoria
• Gearhart City Hall – 698 Pacific Way
• Seaside City Hall – 989 Broadway
• Warrenton City Hall – 225 S Main Ave (back parking lot)
• Knappa High School – 41535 Old Hwy 30
• Jewell School – 83874 Hwy 103
• Cannon Beach City Hall (Temporary Location during construction) – 295 E 2nd Street

For more election information and a complete list of ballot drop site locations and maps, visit clatsopcounty.gov/elections.

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(Astoria, OR) - Clatsop County’s Courthouse Security Improvement Project moves into a new phase of construction scheduled to begin Monday, April 28, 2025.

As part of this phase, trench work to improve drainage around the south courthouse entrance will begin in the northeast portion of the Courthouse parking lot (entrance on 8^th Street). This work will impact both staff and public parking availability.

Because of the location of this work, the south stairway entrance and accessible entrance with the ADA ramp to the Courthouse from the parking lot will be temporarily closed.

Accessible parking will be temporarily relocated to the west side of the Courthouse on 7^th Street.

The north stairway entrance on Commercial St. will be open. Visitors and staff who need assistance with mobility or accessibility should use the west entrance of the Courthouse on 7^th Street. Visitors who need additional assistance are encouraged to call Clatsop County staff at 503-325-8555.

This trench work supports the single-entry project to enhance security and functionality in the Courthouse, including:

• Improve drainage in the parking lot to prevent basement flooding
• Refurbishment and reinstallation of historic courthouse windows (window work is scheduled through May)
• Elevator improvements expected to begin later this spring
• Installation of a single secure entry point

During this project, construction crews may use equipment such as man lifts that will require temporary changes to parking availability. Alternate parking is available at:

• 7th & Commercial Street lot (by the playground)
• Street parking on Duane Street

For more information visit clatsopcounty.gov.

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Please see attached document

DALLAS, Oregon (April 22)

Are you passionate about serving your community and making a difference in Dallas? Now is your opportunity to join the Dallas City Council! Qualified applicants interested in becoming a City Councilor are encouraged to fill out an application. All applications must be received by 5:00 pm on May 12, 2025.

Requirements:

• Applicants must have lived in Dallas City limits for at least 12 months

• Be a registered voter in the City of Dallas

Don’t pass up this exciting opportunity to help shape the future of Dallas! All qualified candidates will be expected to attend the Dallas City Council meeting on day, May 19th at 7:00 pm. Please come prepared to provide a 5-minute statement about yourself and why you would like to serve on the City Council. The candidate who is chosen to serve on the City Council will immediately be sworn in and participate in the meeting.

Complete the candidate form at www.dallasor.gov and submit it to the City Manager’s Office at City Hall or email it to ecorder@dallasor.gov">recorder@dallasor.gov.

For more information, contact Kim Herring, City Recorder, at 503.831.3502 or ecorder@dallasor.gov">recorder@dallasor.gov.

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The Portland Office of Violence Prevention is now accepting applications for the 2025 Safer Portland Grant to help reduce gun violence through community-based prevention efforts.

A total of $1,000,000 is available. The grant will be comprised of $700,000 in large dollar grants and $300,000 in small dollar grants. Organizations can apply for up to $100,000 in the large grant category, or up to $50,000 in the small grant category. Each grant may vary based on the scope of work and number of community members served.

All applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on May 9, 2025. 

Due to the limited availability of funds, applicants are strongly encouraged to only apply to the appropriate grant amount necessary for direct program activities so the Office of Violence Prevention can maximize available resources.

The grant prioritizes prevention efforts in Cully, Hazelwood, Eliot, and Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhoods, along with other areas known for high gun violence rates, but organizations throughout Portland are encouraged to apply.

Examples of programs supported by the grant include, but are not limited, to:

• Wraparound services, including mental health/cognitive behavioral therapy, aftercare support for families of victims, and intervention support services.
• Social activities, including youth and adult mediation/mentoring, preventative events/programs/workshops, and arts/culture/recreation programs.
• Workforce development and economic mobility, including job training and readiness, job placement, and financial and basic needs support for families affected by gun violence.

Visit https://www.portland.gov/community-safety/ovp/safer-portland for instructions on how to apply.

[PORTLAND, OR] – On Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the City of Portland’s Safe Blocks Program and the Portland Police Bureau are partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration to host the DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day at the Portland Police Bureau’s North Precinct. They will be collecting tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines.

What: National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

When: Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Who: Safe Blocks Program & Portland Police Bureau

Where: Portland Police Bureau North Precinct (449 NE Emerson St, Portland, OR 97211)

In partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed 19.2 million pounds (9,600 tons) of medication from circulation since inception. It offers free and anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at more than 5,000 local drop-off locations nationwide. For more than a decade, these events have helped Americans easily rid their homes of unneeded medications—those that are old, unwanted, or expired—that too often become a gateway to addiction.

Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.

The Sunshine Division will also be available for donations of canned food, dry pasta, or boxed food for local families in need (tax deduction forms will be provided).

Can’t make it to this event? Visit www.DEATakeBack.com  for an authorized year-round drug disposal location near you.

Note: This event will not be offering shredding services, accepting furniture donations, or disposing of any electronics.

# # #

• Road closures and lane restrictions are expected surrounding the Capitol Mall.
• Drivers should use extra caution in response to increased pedestrian traffic in the area.
• The permitted event in the public right-of-way is scheduled from 1 – 2:30 p.m. May 1.

Salem, Ore. — The City of Salem is alerting the public about street closures related to a planned one-day event May 1 near the Oregon State Capitol Mall. Permitted street closures for the event will include portions of State Street NE and Center Street NE between Cottage Street NE and 12th Street NE, and Church Street NE between Center and State streets. The closures will be in effect from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
 

Drivers should expect increased pedestrian traffic and some delays. Temporary signage indicating road closures and lane restrictions will be in place. Drivers are asked to plan accordingly and seek alternate routes during the listed event times. Please drive safely and watch for an increase in pedestrians in the area.

Closure Details

• Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
• Time: 1 – 2:30 p.m.
• Affected Streets: Center Street NE, Chemeketa Street NE, Court Street NE, State Street NE, Cottage Street NE, Capitol Street NE, Church Street NE, 12th Street NE, and Waverly Street NE, all in the vicinity of the Oregon State Capitol and Capitol Mall
• Details: Full or partial street closures will be in effect in the area bordered by Center, Cottage, State, Waverly, and Capitol streets northeast; this will accommodate the permitted activities and ensure the safety of all participants and visitors
   

The City of Salem appreciates your cooperation and patience during this event and is committed to ensuring the safety and accessibility for all residents and visitors.

If you have comments or questions, please contact the Public Works Department’s Public Information Office at oberts@cityofsalem.net">jproberts@cityofsalem.net or 503-588-6211 ext. 7630.

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After a national search, the Tigard City Council has selected Brent Stockwell to serve as the next City Manager. Brent has been Assistant City Manager with the City of Scottsdale, Arizona since 2015.

Stockwell holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Washington and is an International City/Council Management Association Credentialed Manager. His education is complemented by the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program at Harvard.

The City Council voted to approve Brent’s contract at their meeting on April 23, 2025; he will officially begin work with Tigard on June 1, 2025.

As City Manager, Stockwell will oversee the day-to-day operations of the city and work closely with the seven-member City Council, Tigard team members, and community members to implement council priorities and community initiatives.

“We’re excited to have Brent Stockwell join us as City Manager,” said Mayor Heidi Lueb. “Brent brings great experience and new energy to this critical role for our community. He will help us move our goals forward for housing, economic opportunity, livability, and delivering our new Police and Public Works facility. We look forward to working with Brent to continue doing great things in Tigard. Welcome Brent!”

Brent Stockwell said, “I’m honored by the trust of the Mayor and City Council and excited to serve the Tigard community. I’ve spent my career collaborating with communities, building strong relationships, responding to needs and delivering results. That approach aligns with Tigard’s way of doing things – and I’m excited to move forward together.”

Tualatin, OR – On the morning of April 23, the City of Tualatin welcomed a full house to the Grand Hotel at Bridgeport for the 2025 State of the City Breakfast. The annual event brought together residents, business leaders, community partners, regional elected officials, and City representatives—both staff and elected—to celebrate achievements and share a vision for the future.
 

The energy in the room reflected the strength of Tualatin’s vibrant and engaged community. Attendees—both familiar faces and new—gathered to hear highlights from the past year and learn about continued progress across the City’s seven priority areas:

• Neighborhood Engagement
• Economic Development
• Environment
• Culture and Identity
• Housing
• Transportation
• Parks

“This event is a powerful reminder of how much we can achieve when we work together,” said Frank Bubenik, Mayor of Tualatin. “From new housing efforts to enhancements in parks and transportation, we’re seeing the results of our community-driven approach—and we’re just getting started.”
 

The State of the City also marked the kickoff to an exciting season of community events. This June, the popular Blender Dash returns with its fun run for kids ages 5–15. In July, ¡Viva Tualatin! will once again spotlight culture, food, and togetherness in a can’t-miss summer celebration.

With so much on the horizon, the City looks forward to a summer filled with connection, celebration, and continued collaboration.

Thank you to everyone who attended and supports our community. Together, we’re making Tualatin a place we’re all proud to call home.

For more information about upcoming City events, visit www.tualatinoregon.gov/calendar.

Vancouver, Wash. – Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services has been selected as one of just 52 recreation agencies nationwide to participate in the prestigious Million Coaches Challenge, an initiative that aims to equip one million coaches with essential youth development training in 2025.

As a participant in the initiative, recreation staff and youth sports volunteers will receive high-quality, no-cost coach training through the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and a coalition of top national training organizations. The goal is to better support staff and volunteers who lead youth sports programs, ensuring they have the tools to create inclusive, safe and developmentally supportive environments where every young athlete can thrive.

“Sports have the power to build confidence, connection and life skills,” said Stacey Allington, City recreation coordinator. “This opportunity is about more than just coaching. With this training, we’re creating a stronger foundation so all kids can benefit from everything youth sports have to offer.”

By participating in the Million Coaches Challenge, Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services will be empowered to continue cultivating a youth sports culture where all children can succeed, on and off the field.

The Million Coaches Challenge is powered by the Susan Crown Exchange (SCE), with additional funding from ESPN’s Take Back Sports youth sports initiative. NRPA joined the effort in 2024 to help expand its reach across park and recreation agencies.

For more information about local youth sports programs or volunteer coaching opportunities, visit www.cityofvancouver.us/activities.

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Since 2017, the Portland Water Bureau has detected low levels of Cryptosporidium from routine monitoring of source water. The Portland Water Bureau received results from ongoing monitoring from the Bull Run Watershed intake for Cryptosporidium, a potentially disease-causing microorganism. In the 50 liters sampled each day from April 20 to April 23, one Cryptosporidium oocyst was detected in the sample collected on April 21. Cryptosporidium was not detected in the samples collected on April 20, April 22, or April 23. Prior to these detections, Cryptosporidium was last detected from the Bull Run Watershed intake on April 15, 2025.

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

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

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

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

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

About the Portland Water Bureau

The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 53 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,200 miles of pipes. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day.

Bureau’s progress toward net zero is ahead of schedule

Tired of reading about impending climate-related doom? This Earth Day, the Portland Water Bureau has a plan to create water system resilience and reduce greenhouse gases—and now we have a tool that lets the public track our progress toward net zero.

The Water Bureau’s Net Zero Strategy outlines our plan to cut emissions in half by 2030 (compared to a 2007 baseline)—and we’re on track to meet that goal! Portlanders can track our progress using the Portland Water Bureau emissions dashboard, with an interactive breakdown of our electricity use, natural gas use, and fleet metrics, as well as engaging infographics.

Portland Water’s Adaptive Planning, Demand Management and Climate Manager Kavita Heyn is a national leader in resilience. In addition to her role with the Water Bureau, she serves as the staff chair of the Water Utility Climate Alliance, a national coalition of 12 large water utilities that collectively serve drinking water to 50 million people throughout the United States. She is eager to share the tangible steps Portland Water is taking to reduce emissions. 

What’s driving our progress? We are…

• Investing in supply resilience and reliability through adaptive planning, our groundwater system and a new filtration facility that will reduce outages of the Bull Run supply after wildfires, landslides and turbidity.
• Investing in climate resilience to drought, heatwaves, wildfires, floods, supply chain disruptions and climate-related financial risk.
• Investing in decarbonization and renewable energy to reduce emissions, increase efficiencies, reduce operating costs, generate clean energy and save our customers money in the long run.

What specific actions are we taking to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions? We are…

• Building smarter. We used low-carbon concrete in the new Washington Park Reservoir seismic upgrades to decrease the total project greenhouse gas emissions. Building this reservoir with low-carbon concretesaved the same amount of carbon as taking 750 cars off the road for a year.
• Reducing electricity use through energy savings contracts and energy management programs, water loss prevention, and climate-smart planning and design practices.
• Increasing renewable energy generation by looking for new solar and micro-hydro opportunities. The Washington Park micro-hydro project alone will generate 230,000 kWh per year, saving the Portland Water Bureau the equivalent of $130,000 per year in electricity bills in the first 10 years of operation.
• Reducing fleet emissions by transitioning to electric and high-efficiency vehicles. 
• Beginning to phase out natural gas by switching to electric heating sources.

The following digital assets can help with your reporting:

• Our Microsoft Power BI emissions tracking dashboard, which gives an interactive breakdown of our electricity use, natural gas use, and fleet metrics, as well as infographics on our progress so far.
• An image-heavy climate story map describing the scope of the challenge we face and how we’re preparing to meet that challenge.
• The full text of our Net Zero Strategy), including steps to neutralize emissions, enhance water system resilience, improve system efficiency, and reduce costs for our customers and ratepayers.

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

Protect workers, protect yourself: slow down in work zones

The public servants building projects that improve our lives have family to protect and support, just like you. That’s why Portland Public Works is reminding the public to keep their distance from crews at work and slow down when traveling through work zones to mark the 2025 National Work Zone Awareness Week.

Construction season is kicking into high-gear, and crews will be out in neighborhoods across the city doing the critical work of improving, replacing, and maintaining our transportation, water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure that Portlanders rely on every hour of every day.

“Together, Portland’s Public Works teams—across transportation, water, sewer, and stormwater—are building and maintaining the infrastructure our city depends on,” said Deputy City Administrator for Public Works Priya Dhanapal. “These crews work hard, often in dangerous conditions, to serve all of us. We owe it to them to slow down and stay alert.”

Most people killed in work zone crashes are drivers and their passengers. In 2021, 778 drivers and their passengers died in work zones (based on National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data), making it even more important for drivers to slow down and stay focused while approaching and passing through a roadway work zone.

Work zones play a crucial role in separating construction and maintenance activities from traffic. They provide a safe area for workers and a safe route for all road users (people walking, bicycling, rolling, and driving. However, work zones also frequently involve changes in traffic patterns and rights of way. Those changes, combined with the presence of workers and the frequent movement of work vehicles, may lead to crashes, injuries, and fatalities.

Portland and cities across the nation continue to see a rise in fatal traffic crashes that defy historical trends. Through the Vision Zero program, the City of Portland and our partners are working to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries on our streets.

To further protect yourself and city workers from death and injury, the Public Works Service Area bureaus (PBOT, BES, and PWB) ask Portlanders to follow these safety steps: 

• SLOW DOWN. Speed is the number one factor in fatal work zone crashes.
• GIVE SPACE. Don’t tailgate and keep clear of construction workers and equipment.
• PUT PHONES AWAY. Distraction is deadly—and illegal.
• FOLLOW THE SIGNS. Signs and flaggers are there for a reason.
• CHOOSE ANOTHER ROUTE. If you can, steer clear of active work zones.
• BE KIND. Expect delays and give crews grace—they’re working for you.

Watch this video from Public Works crews working to keep the street safe, the water on, and sharing why safety around work zones is so important:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPzP2XhmeCI

About National Work Zone Awareness Week 

National Work Zone Awareness Week runs from April 21-25, 2025. Work zones play a key role in maintaining and upgrading Portland's roadways, water, and sewer infrastructure and more. Unfortunately, daily changes in traffic patterns, narrowed rights-of-way, and other construction activities often create a combination of factors resulting in crashes, injuries, and even fatalities. These crashes also cause excessive delays, especially given the constrained driving environment.

Recent statistics from the National Highway Safety Administration show that between 2020 and 2021, work zone fatalities increased by 10.8 percent while overall roadway fatalities increased by 10.3 percent.

About PBOT 

The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) is the steward of the City’s transportation system, and a community partner in shaping a livable city. We plan, build, manage and maintain an effective and safe transportation system that provides access and mobility. Learn more at portland.gov/transportation.

About the Portland Water Bureau

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

April 24, 2025

CASE# 23CR53244 

Portland, OR-A Multnomah County Jury convicted Tyree Deonte Scott of several charges related to a shooting outside The Lounge, a strip club in NE Portland. 

The defendant was convicted of: 

• Assault in the 2nd Degree with a Firearm 

• Assault in the 2nd Degree with a Firearm 

• Unlawful Use of a weapon (discharge at a person) 

• Unlawful Use of a Weapon (discharge at a vehicle)

• Discharge of a Firearm in the City

The defendant faces a mandatory minimum of 70 months in prison. 

Deputy District Attorney Andrew Wood prosecuted the case for the state. After the conviction he said: “The defendant imposed senseless gun violence upon the victim in this case. The victim will continue to live with the physical and emotional injuries he has suffered from this incident, but I believe the verdict of the jury will provide him with a sense that justice has been served.”

The District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Portland Police Primary Detective Jennifer Pierce, (ECST Detectives Division). In addition, MCDA investigators Nathan Tobey and Heather Hughes played important roles in the investigation of the case. We’d also like to thank Victim Advocates Nang Dunn, Rocio Peguero, and Suzanne Rapgnani. All greatly contributed to the case.

THE FACTS:

On May 23, 2023 a man was out with a friend at a strip club. They were joined by two of the friend’s family members and all four eventually went to a second strip club on NE Columbia Boulevard in Portland. While at the second location, Tyree Scott was cut off from drinking by the bartender because he was becoming belligerent. Eventually all four men left the club and as the victim was driving away, Scott pulled out a gun and fired a single shot at the victim from about 70 feet away, breaking the driver’s side window glass and hitting the victim in the left hand.

The victim drove himself to the Salmon Creek hospital.

                                                                                            ###MCDA###

Date: 4/23/25

Case #: 21CR27231     

Portland, OR-Manuel Jesus Huchin-Interian pled guilty Friday April 18, 2025 to Assault in the Second Degree Constituting Domestic Violence. 

Under Ballot Measure 11, he will be sentenced to 70 months in prison and three years post prison supervision. 

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Robin Beck Skarstad prosecuted the case for the state. She noted that Huchin-Interian accepted the plea offer the afternoon before his case went to trial. 

She said: "This case underscores the devastating impact domestic violence has on children in the home.  The victim’s young daughter showed bravery and resilience that truly inspires us to work hard every day to interrupt the cycle of abuse and to keep families safe.” 

The Multnomah County District Attorney's Office would like to thank the Gresham Police Department, particularly the lead investigator Sabrina Homewytewa, who is now with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, and MCDA Victim Advocate Rocio Peguero for their compassion and empathy in helping the victims of this case. 

THE FACTS:

On June 7, 2021, police were called to a family home in Gresham by numerous 911 callers, including a call from the couple’s 10-year-old daughter who reported that her parents were arguing and dad stabbed mom. The 10-year old reported that she grabbed a knife herself and tried to stab the defendant but the knife was too dull so she dropped it and ran to her room with her little siblings and locked the door. She emerged whtn defendant left and stayed on the line with 911, rendering aid to her mom.  When police arrived, they found the victim "lifeless,” face down in a pool of blood, with a deep 8-inch cut to her neck. It was unclear whether she was going to survive but she did. The victim later told police the defendant had accused her of cheating and took a knife and cut her throat. While doing so he said he was going to "finish her" and then "finish the kids." Huchin-Interian fled and was later located and arrested in San Francisco in March 2024. 

Sentencing is set for Monday, April 28 at 1:00.

                                ###MCDA###

CASE # 23CR29179

Portland, OR- Multnomah County Judge Kelly Skye on Friday, April 18, 2025 sentenced Zenn Matthew Vicknair to 420 months in prison (35  years) for sexually abusing his stepdaughter over multiple years. 

Judge Kyle convicted Vicknair after a bench trial on May 31, 2024 but his sentencing was delayed for nearly a year by a variety of factors.

Vicknair was convicted on two counts of Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the First Degree, two counts of Sodomy in the First Degree, and five counts of Sex Abuse in the First Degree. The abuse began when the stepdaughter was 9 years old. 

Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Robin Skarstad prosecuted the case for the state. After the sentencing she said: 

“The 35 year sentence is an acknowledgement of the repeated instances of egregious sexual abuse committed by the defendant against the most vulnerable of victims. We are so grateful for the strength this now young-woman showed in seeking justice and safety for our community and hope that this verdict brings her some peace.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Detective Kathryne Manus for her patient work with this victim over many years.  

MCDA would also like to acknowledge the kind and caring work done by MCDA Victim Advocate Alie Aguilera on this case.

THE FACTS:

The facts brought out in trial proved incidents of sexual assault that started when the child was just 9 years old, and continued for years, allegedly even after the family moved to Renton, Washington in 2012. Vicknair stepped into the victim’s need for love and affection and filled it with pervasive, almost normalized sexual abuse for years of her young life – destroying her sense of self and the bonds of her family. The abuse first was reported in 2016, when the victim’s mother called the Department of Human Services hotline to report that her then 15-year old had disclosed ongoing sexual contact with the defendant.  After learning the defendant had attempted suicide and was experiencing seizures, the victim recanted the allegations during a therapy session.  The case was reopened in 2021 when the victim reached out to law enforcement concerned for her younger brother’s welfare.  

                                     ###MCDA###

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Granite Bay, California man was arrested and appeared in federal court Tuesday after he was indicted in Oregon for cyberstalking his ex-girlfriend and posting sexually explicit photos online.

Jason David Campos, 42, has been charged with stalking, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft.

According to court documents, between 2009 and 2023, Campos is alleged to have stalked and harassed the victim, a former intimate partner, by posting sexually explicit images and personal information online using social media platforms and public forum websites. 

In May 2007, while still in the relationship, Campos told the victim that the laptop containing the sexually explicit images had been stolen from his vehicle. Campos and the victim ended their relationship in 2008.

The following year, the victim searched her name online and discovered that sexually explicit images, taken by Campos during their relationship, had been posted to Facebook, Craigslist, Classmates.com, in sex ads, and a Swedish website, without the victim’s consent. Campos used the victim’s name, including her maiden name, to create accounts on several social media platforms and public forum websites. Over the next 14 years, Campos used these accounts to publish sexually explicit images of the victim online. In numerous instances, Campos asked viewers to contact the victim directly and shared her personal information in order to further harass the victim.

On July 16, 2021, Campos is further alleged to have created an email account using the victim’s name, which he used to contact the victim’s attorney in Oregon. Posing as the victim, Campos requested the client file which contained personal information including the victim’s address and information about a child. After obtaining the file, Campos contacted the victim directly.

On January 23, 2022, the victim received an email from an account later linked to Campos, in which he referred to the child by name and asked if the victim was the child’s mother. Additionally, Campos used the email account to post several sexually explicit images of the victim to an online message board. He asked viewers to print the images and post them around a neighborhood in Oregon that the victim was residing in at the time.

Campos was arrested in Granite Bay and made his initial appearance in federal court Tuesday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Sacramento, California. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

If convicted, Campos faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, three years’ supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 for wire fraud, a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison, three years’ supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 for stalking, and a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in federal prison, one year of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 for aggravated identity theft.

The case is being investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Gregory R. Nyhus and Mira Chernick, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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

# # #

EUGENE, Ore.— Two companies responsible for the operation of the J.H. Baxter wood treatment facility in Eugene, Oregon, and their president, were sentenced Tuesday for hazardous waste and Clean Air Act violations. Collectively, they were ordered to pay a total of $1.5 million in criminal fines. In addition, the court ordered the companies to serve five years of probation and the companies’ president, Georgia Baxter-Krause, 62, of Deschutes County, Oregon, to serve 90 days in federal prison and one year of supervised release. 

Both companies — J.H. Baxter & Co. Inc. and J.H. Baxter & Co., A California Limited Partnership (collectively J.H. Baxter) — previously pleaded guilty to charges of illegally treating hazardous waste and knowingly violating the Clean Air Act’s regulations for hazardous air pollutants. Georgia Baxter-Krause previously pleaded guilty to two counts of making false statements in violation of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the federal statute governing hazardous waste management.

"On more than 100 different days, J.H. Baxter knowingly and illegally boiled off hazardous waste, emitting the discharge into the air,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “J.H. Baxter’s President, Georgia Baxter-Krause, then made false statements about the unlawful practice. Protecting the public’s health is among our highest priorities, and we will prosecute those who violate environmental laws." 

“The J.H. Baxter companies knowingly mishandled hazardous waste and repeatedly violated the Clean Air Act by venting hazardous substances directly into the air, right across the street from people’s homes. The company president then lied to cover up these crimes,” said Acting Assistant Administrator Jeffrey Hall for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Today’s sentencing highlights the significant penalties that Congress has provided for illegally treating or disposing of hazardous waste as well as the Agency’s continued efforts to ensure that Americans have clean air, land, and water.”

“The defendant companies boiled hazardous waste into our community’s air instead of properly dealing with it and Georgia Baxter-Krause lied when confronted about it,” said Nathan J. Lichvarcik, Chief of the Eugene and Medford Branches of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our federal, state, and local partners to investigate and prosecute those who put Oregonians at risk in violation of federal law.”

According to court documents, J.H. Baxter used hazardous chemicals to treat and preserve wood at its Eugene facility. The wastewater from the wood preserving processes was hazardous waste.

To properly treat wastewater from its wood treatment process, J.H. Baxter operated a legal wastewater treatment unit to treat and evaporate the waste. For years, however, when J.H. Baxter had too much water on site, including process wastewater and precipitation, J.H. Baxter’s employees at the facility would transfer hazardous process wastewater to an available wood treatment retort to “boil it off,” greatly reducing its volume. J.H. Baxter would then remove the remaining waste from the retort, label it as hazardous waste and ship it offsite for disposal.

Photo sent to Georgia Baxter-Krause in 2019, depicting the inside of a J.H. Baxter retort after weeks of boiling hazardous waste, from the government’s sentencing memo in United States v. J.H. Baxter, et al., 6:24-cr-441 in U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon.

J.H. Baxter did not have a permit to treat its hazardous waste in this manner, as required by RCRA. Additionally, J.H. Baxter’s facility was subject to certain Clean Air Act emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants, which required it to minimize air pollution emissions. However, during the illegal treatment, employees were directed to open all vents on the retorts, allowing discharge to the surrounding air.

After Oregon inspectors discovered this activity, they requested information about the companies’ practice of boiling off hazardous wastewater. On two separate occasions, Georgia Baxter-Krause gave false information in response, which included information about the dates the practice took place and which retorts were used.

The investigation determined that Georgia Baxter-Krause knew J.H. Baxter maintained detailed daily production logs for each retort. From approximately January to October 2019, J.H. Baxter boiled off hazardous process wastewater in its wood treatment retorts on 136 known days. Georgia Baxter-Krause was also aware that during this time J.H. Baxter used four of its five retorts to boil off wastewater.

This case was investigated by the EPA Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, Lane Regional Air Protection Agency, EPAs Pacific Northwest (Region 10) office, and the Oregon State Police. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren for the District of Oregon, Trial Attorneys Rachel Roberts and Stephen J. Foster of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section, and EPA Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel Karla G. Perrin.

This case was an Environmental Crimes Task Force (ECTF) investigation. ECTF is an initiative in the District of Oregon that identifies, investigates, and prosecutes significant environmental, public lands, and wildlife crimes. ECTF leverages the resources and effort of federal, state and local regulatory agencies and law enforcement to protect human health, safeguard natural resources and wildlife and hold violators accountable.

# # #

The funding is part of OnPoint’s Green Horizons initiative and will support nonprofits restoring nature, conserving wildlife and reducing e-waste  

PORTLAND, Ore., — April 22, 2025 — OnPoint Community Credit Union is giving $100,000 to four local environmental nonprofits to mark Earth Day 2025. The investment is through KGW’s Good Energy Campaign sponsorship. Friends of the Columbia Gorge, Oregon Wildlife Foundation, Free Geek and The Nature Conservancy in Oregon will each receive $25,000 to help protect natural resources and wildlife in Oregon and Southwest Washington. 

OnPoint’s Green Horizons initiative supports organizations whose vital work helps address climate change.  Since 2021, the program has provided green auto and solar financing for members, sustainability perks for employees and more $500,000 in funding for local nonprofits protecting our region’s natural resources. 

“Dealing with climate change and preserving our planet isn’t just something that happens at a national or global level. Each individual and organization plays a key role,” said Rob Stuart, president and CEO, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Our Green Horizons initiative empowers local partners to continue their boots-on-the-ground efforts. We are proud to support the people and organizations that fight to keep our environment sustainable for generations to come.” 

Supporting local environment nonprofits with Green Horizons  

The Nature Conservancy in Oregon (TNCO) works to conserve the land and waters upon which all life depends. Since 2017, OnPoint’s donations of over $350,000 to TNCO have helped fund projects across Oregon, from restoration of our estuaries and forests to drought-resilient watersheds and community-driven climate solutions.

 “OnPoint’s continued contributions as part of Green Horizons makes a huge difference as we face urgent environmental challenges across the state,” said Derek Johnson, State Director of The Nature Conservancy in Oregon. “The steady support helps us focus on local solutions and strategies that build toward a better future Oregonians and the lands and waters we cherish.”

Oregon Wildlife Foundation drives lasting conservation of Oregon’s fish, wildlife, and citizen enjoyment of natural resources. Since 1981, it has partnered with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to ensure scientifically sound wildlife conservation projects are funded. OWF depends upon strong partnerships to help it use donations efficiently for projects, such as highway underpasses protecting endangered frogs and helicopter-assisted stream restoration. 

“OnPoint’s support is a vital part of helping us deliver on our mission to help save and even improve the resources we have here in Oregon,” said Oregon Wildlife Foundation Executive Director Tim Greseth. 

Free Geek, founded in Portland on Earth Day 2000, sustainably reuses technology and provides digital literacy education to bridge the digital divide. It diverts tech devices from landfills, refurbishes them and gives them back to the community at little or no cost. Equipment that can’t be reused or refurbished is broken into parts for recycling.  

“People know that Free Geek helps people, but they don’t always think about the more than 1.5 million pounds of tech equipment we’ve been able to keep out of the landfill,” said Free Geek executive director Juan Muro, Jr. “OnPoint’s Green Horizons donation will support reuse and recycling that has an immediate positive effect on both the environment and people’s day-to-day lives.” 

Friends of the Columbia Gorge led the fight to create the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area 40 years ago, but that was just the beginning. It continues to protect the gorge’s scenic, natural, cultural and recreational resources through land acquisition and stewardship, advocacy, education, volunteerism, and partnerships. Friends’ current Share the Wonder campaign permanently protects areas such as Heartleaf Bluffs and the Alashík Preserve, restoring habitat at Cape Horn and Catherine Creek and expanding the Gorge trail network.   

“This Green Horizons donation helps us carry the torch of Gorge protection to future generations,” said Friends’ executive director Kevin Gorman. “We rely on the strength and diversity of collaborators who share this vision for the Gorge’s future. We’re grateful that OnPoint is championing one of the world’s greatest natural treasures.” 

Increasing accessibility with auto and home special rate discounts  

OnPoint’s Green Horizons offers special rate discounts for members to make going green more accessible. The Green Auto Discount offers 0.25% Annual Percentage Rate (APR) off auto loan rates for new or used electric or hybrid vehicles financed through OnPoint. People in the market for electric or hybrid vehicles can also find additional incentives through Oregon and Washington state programs. 

OnPoint’s Green Horizons also makes it more affordable for homeowners to produce their own solar electricity. When homeowners apply for an EquityFlex Line of Credit for home improvements, they can fix a portion of their line of credit for the purchase of solar panels and receive a 0.25% discount off the EquityFlex Fixed Portion APR. Homeowners can find even more savings by looking at incentives and rebate programs in Oregon and Washington. 

For more information about OnPoint’s investment in building a greener future, such as telecommuting programs, employee volunteer opportunities, and other donations to environmentally-focused organizations, please visit: OnPoint Green Horizons. 

# # # 

About OnPoint Community Credit Union 

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 603,000 members and with assets of $9.9 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932. 

Vehicles meeting OnPoint’s Green Auto Discount standards receive a 0.25% discount off stated APR (Annual Percentage Rate). All OnPoint loans are subject to credit terms and approval. Discount does not apply to existing OnPoint auto loans. 

Receive a 0.25% discount off stated EquityFlex Fixed Portion APR when proceeds are used to purchase solar panels. Review of purchase order or invoice required to qualify. Discount applies to invoice/purchase order amount, not to exceed $12,000. 

OREGON CITY – Writers of all levels are invited to gather inspiration, sharpen their skills and connect with fellow creatives at the annual Compose Creative Writing Conference on Saturday, May 17, hosted by the Clackamas Community College English Department.

This year's keynote speaker is Stephen Graham Jones, the New York Times-bestselling author of nearly 40 novels, short story collections, novellas and comic books, including “The Only Good Indians,” “My Heart is a Chainsaw,” “Mongrels,” “Earthdivers” and “I was a Teenage Slasher.” Jones is one of the most prolific authors in publishing and among its most decorated. He is a National Endowment for the Arts recipient and has won many awards for his fiction and graphic novels. He is the Ivena Baldwin Professor of English at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

In addition to the keynote address, the conference will feature a full day of workshops and panels, including:

• Panel discussion with Jones, Rene Denfeld and Terry Blas

• YES, AND keep writing: First draft as improv with Curtis Chen

• Writing and drawing: Starting a career in comics with Terry Blas

• Finding the enchanted: How to bring the poetic to your writing with Rene Denfeld

• Walking off the page: Crafting compelling characters with Rachel Attias

• Uncovering/recovering your story, your vision, your voice with Gina Ochsner

• Radical revision with Matthew Dickman

• Unwinding the line: Contemporary poetry and dissent with Jennifer Pons

Participants can customize their day by choosing sessions that best match their interests and creative goals.

Event details:

• Date: Saturday, May 17

• Time: 10 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.

• Location: Clackamas Community College, Oregon City campus

• Registration: $25 general admission | $10 CCC students

Register online at www.clackamas.edu/register-compose. For more information about the event, visit www.clackamas.edu/compose. To learn more about the college’s English Department and offerings, visit www.clackamas.edu/english. Clackamas Community College is located at 19600 Molalla Ave., Oregon City.

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OREGON CITY — The community at Clackamas Community College is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Oregon State Sen. Aaron Woods. He was a dedicated public servant, a champion for education and a valued member of the CCC Board of Education.​

“During his time on our board, he brought wisdom, compassion and a deep belief in the power of education to transform lives,” CCC Board Chair Jane Reid said. “I know I speak for the entire board when I say we will miss him deeply.”

Sen. Woods began serving on the CCC Board in 2020, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his career in the U.S. Army and the technology sector, including leadership roles at Tektronix and Xerox. His commitment to innovation, workforce development and equitable access to education was evident in his contributions to the college and the broader community.

During his tenure at CCC, Sen. Woods helped the college navigate COVID, ice storms, wildfires and excessive heat. The college also passed a bond and saw rebounding enrollment. His commitment to the vitality of the Wilsonville campus and the business community positively influenced work and connection to the district. 

"Throughout his time at CCC, Senator Woods was a champion for diversity, equity and inclusion, working to ensure our communities are places where all can succeed. His advocacy with the Wilsonville Alliance for Inclusive Communities and service on state and national committees — from veterans' services to information management and economic development — underscore the breadth and depth of his commitment,” CCC President Dr. Tim Cook said. "His passion for service and his unwavering dedication to our students and community will be profoundly missed."​

Elected to the Oregon State Senate in 2022, Sen. Woods continued to advocate for education and technology initiatives, including legislation to enhance broadband access and cybersecurity readiness. His efforts have left a lasting impact on the state's educational landscape.​

“The CCC community extends its heartfelt condolences to his family and all who were touched by his remarkable life and service,” Cook said.

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ALOHA, Ore. – Portland Community College student and Oregon native Andres Garcia Perez has made history as the first PCC student selected for the prestigious National High School Equivalency Program (HEP)/College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) Association Internship Program.

Perez, who lives in Aloha, is one of only six students nationwide chosen for this highly competitive internship, designed for first-year post-secondary students. He will spend 10 weeks this summer in Washington, D.C., developing advocacy and leadership skills by interning with the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the oldest and largest Hispanic civil rights organization in the U.S. The HEP/CAMP internship covers round-trip travel, housing at George Washington University, and a $4,500 stipend to support professional development.

“It is truly such an honor and privilege to be interning for LULAC,” said Perez. “With my aspirations of owning a law firm and becoming an immigration attorney, this opportunity will develop my leadership and professional skills significantly. I’m excited to network with leaders in D.C. and bring back everything I learn to share with my community.”

PCC’s HEP Program helps students earn their high school equivalency credentials, serving over 6,000 students nationally each year. CAMP supports first-year college students through mentorship and academic resources. PCC's CAMP serves approximately 45 students annually, and nearly 75% of participants go on to complete a bachelor's degree. 

“Thanks to CAMP and their mentorship, I have been guided towards a successful college career,” Perez said. “They laid out the steps required for me to reach my professional goals, making it easy to focus on studies and prepare for opportunities like this one.”

PCC CAMP Director Greg Contreras is proud of Perez's academic development. Contreras, who can submit just one student recommendation annually, emphasized the historic nature of Perez’s accomplishment. He said that Perez's selection will open doors not only for him, but for others.

“Andres is a natural leader, deeply rooted in doing good for his community—through church, charity, or school,” said Contreras. “This selection shows what’s possible for students in our program and inspires others to aim high."

The Aloha High School graduate and sports star, Perez hopes to actively participate in policy discussions, staff meetings and advocacy efforts impacting Latino communities across the nation. Despite facing personal challenges—he is partially deaf and visually impaired even with corrective lenses -- Perez has enjoyed academic success. He excels academically, musically and in leadership, proficiently playing guitar, bass, piano, ukulele and drums.

“Everything has been good about this experience—from CAMP orientation to networking opportunities,” Perez said. Recently, he attended the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute in Chicago, meeting figures like Emmy-winning journalist Gaby Natale and Oregon's first Mexican-American District Attorney John Haroldson.

Perez said he wouldn't know where he'd be in his academic journey without CAMP. He said he wouldn’t have the connections, friendships and experiences that he now has thanks to the program's support. 

"CAMP gave me confidence, organizational skills and space to grow both personally and professionally,” Perez said.

Perez, 19, is deeply committed to community service, a value he attributes to his upbringing. Born in Oregon, he comes from a family of seven, the child of Mexican migrant farmworkers—his mother from Oaxaca and father from Tlaxcala. 

“Andres recognizes the toil of hard labor his parents have endured harvesting fruit,” wrote Contreras in his recommendation. “He is compelled to elevate his family through education.”

Perez was captain of the Aloha High School baseball team, earned the Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy, and is now coaching junior varsity baseball there. Perez began at PCC with a scholarship from Aloha High and financial aid from Oregon Promise, plus a federal Pell Grant. He earned a place on PCC’s President’s List last fall, carrying a 3.75 grade-point average while taking 18 credits and volunteering with the Western Farm Workers Association.

“My dream is for my parents to retire comfortably, and for me to own one of the most successful law firms in the nation,” Perez said. “I want to inspire students like me to pursue careers in law or criminal justice and create a scholarship for migrant-background students in Oregon who aspire to attend law school.”

Perez describes himself as “a proud Latino student who has lived in Oregon my whole life. As the child of migrant farmworkers, I understand firsthand the transformative power of education. It is not just about personal success; it's about the responsibility I carry to uplift others along the way.”

For more information, visit the CAMP webpage or the HEP Program page.

About Portland Community College: Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 53,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

Visit PCC news on the web at http://news.pcc.edu/

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

###

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Prospective college students are invited to Washington State University Vancouver’s Preview Day from 4 to 6 p.m. May 8. Check in begins at 3:30 p.m. in the Dengerink Administration Building. During the two-hour program, guests will learn about WSU Vancouver’s admissions process, what it’s like to be a student and the basics of paying for college. It’s not too late to apply for fall 2025!

Meet admissions counselors when they provide a campus overview, as well as admissions requirements and how to apply. Hear from financial aid experts about how to apply for grants, loans and scholarships to help make college affordable, and get help filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA). Student Ambassadors will provide optional campus tours. Other current students will give insight into campus life, academics and student support services. All registered prospective students will have the opportunity to go home with WSU prizes.

This event is free and open to the public. RSVP to vancouver.wsu.edu/preview. Registered guests will receive a free parking pass. WSU Vancouver is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave. in Vancouver, east of the 134th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205, or via C-Tran bus service. Find a campus map at vancouver.wsu.edu/map. For event accessibility, contact the Access Center at 360-546-9739 or van.access.center@wsu.edu.

About WSU Vancouver

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

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

# # #

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Washington State University Vancouver will honor 759 graduating students this year. The honorees include graduates from the fall 2024 and spring and summer 2025 terms.

Commencement begins at 1 p.m. May 3 at Cascades Amphitheater, 17200 NE Delfel Rd., Ridgefield, Wash. No tickets are required, and parking is free. The seating area opens at 11:30 a.m.; parking opens at 11 a.m. The ceremony will also be streamed on WSU Vancouver’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/wsuvancouver.

Guests as well as graduates will walk through a metal detector at entry. Carry-in belongings will be searched. Only small clutches, wristlets or fanny packs no bigger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches or clear plastic bags no bigger than 12 x 12 x 6 inches will be allowed inside. Do not bring balloons, gift bags, fireworks, outside food or drink, coolers, laser pointers, pets, weapons, umbrellas, strollers or playpens, skateboards or inline skates. These items must be returned to their vehicle.

About the Graduates    

The 2025 graduates include 52 doctoral candidates in the areas of anthropology, biology, educational leadership, experimental psychology, math and science education, neuroscience, nursing practice, prevention science, psychology, and teaching and learning.

The 58 master’s candidates will receive degrees in anthropology, biology, business administration, computer science, education, electrical engineering, environmental and natural resource sciences, psychology, mechanical engineering, nursing, prevention science, psychology, strategic communication, and elementary and secondary teaching.

The 649 bachelor’s candidates will receive degrees in anthropology, art, biology, business administration, civil engineering, computer science, criminal justice and criminology, data analytics, digital technology and culture, earth and environmental science, education, electrical engineering, English, history, hospitality business management, human biology, human development, humanities, mathematics, mechanical engineering, neuroscience, nursing, political science, psychology, public affairs, social sciences, sociology and strategic communication.

About WSU Vancouver

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

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

# # #

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in a Board Business Meeting on Monday, April 28, 2025 at the Parkrose School District Office located at 10636 NE Prescott Street, Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:30pm.

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

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

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

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Agenda items include but are not limited to: Senior Night & Student School Board Representatives recognitions, May recognitions - Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage month,  Teacher Appreciation month and #SchoolLunchHeroDay. Consent agenda, Student Investment Account Application, OSBA LPC update, OSAA preventing bias incidents framework, Education Foundation dinner recap, Parkrose advocacy, Board self evaluation discussion, July and August meeting dates, Cell phone HB 2251, Superintendent evaluation update and Legislative session update 

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

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

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

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

The Parkrose Board of Education of School District No. 3, Multnomah County, Oregon, will convene in an Organizational Budget Committee Meeting on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at the Parkrose School District Office located at 10636 NE Prescott Street, Portland, Oregon at the hour of 6:30pm.

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

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

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

The agenda is posted on our website at: LINK.

Agenda items include but are not limited to: Election/appointment of officers, Superintendent’s budget message, 2025-2026 Proposed Budget Book, possible action to approve the 25-26 fiscal year budget as presented and levying taxes   

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

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

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

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

Two Battle Ground High School AFJROTC cadets have been selected to attend the Air Force Flight Academy this summer, marking the sixth consecutive year that Tigers will take to the skies.

Juniors Charlie Weiner and Jeremiah Norwood will attend the eight-week flight training program at Spartan College of Aeronautics in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The program is sponsored by Headquarters Air Force Junior ROTC.

“I can now achieve my dream of flying commercial aircraft,” Weiner said, “and it gives me a great base to go to the Air Force Academy after high school.” Weiner is currently the flight commander of his class and attends the Cascadia Tech Aviation Program.

Lt .Col. (ret.) Andrew Woodrow, the senior aerospace science instructor, said Weiner has been “immersed in the study of aerospace science since his first day at Battle Ground.” Woodrow also noted Weiner’s involvement with the precision marksmanship team.

Norwood, a CAM Academy student who also served as a flight commander and flight sergeant, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “When I heard about the flight academy, I jumped at the thought of actually obtaining a pilot’s license. The chance to step forward toward my dream career is hard to explain, but I marvel at the truth of God’s grace for giving me this opportunity.”

Woodrow said the cadets were “truly stunned” at the announcement made in class, adding, “I really think their classmates celebrated the opportunity with them.”

Each year, only 250 students nationwide are selected from nearly 1,100 applicants for the flight academy. Since the program began in 2019, 12 cadets from Battle Ground High School have completed the certification program.

“The flight academy is essentially a $22,000 scholarship applied to one of about 24 universities across the country,” Woodrow said, adding there are no obligations for the student except to focus on the flight training during the eight-week program.

Mark Norwood, Jeremiah Norwood’s father, said the scholarship program is “a fantastic opportunity for any cadet.” He added, “We are still a bit awed that the Air Force offers such a program and are beyond grateful that Jeremiah has been given the opportunity to participate.”

Ana Taylor, Charlie Weiner’s mother, said, “Attending an Air Force-sponsored flight school, on full scholarship as a junior in high school, marks the beginning of what we expect to be an exciting and rewarding career as a pilot. This is truly going to be a before-and-after experience in his life.”

DATE: Monday, April 28, 2025

TIME: 6:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Hockinson Community Center & Zoom (link on website calendar)

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

Reading under a canopy of trees is now a possibility for students at Hathaway Elementary School thanks to generous support from the Camas-Washougal Rotary. 

The Camas-Washougal Rotary donated $2,875 to create a “Nature in the Classroom” scene in the Hathaway school library. Hathway third grader Kinzlee Kalian said, “The display is really nice, it's very relaxing when we look up, and it makes me really calm.” Barb Crozier, a long-time Rotarian, volunteer, and Washougal resident, spearheaded this thoughtful initiative. Her inquiry to Hathaway Elementary School Principal Wendy Morrill was met with an enthusiastic “yes,” and the project quickly moved forward. 

A student survey conducted by Morrill asked which tree scene would be most desired, and the students overwhelmingly selected the majestic MacDonald Oak tree. Kalian added that, “it was really neat for students to be asked, and that the school wanted to know what students thought about the different choices for the ceiling."

This special nature scene was made possible through the Camas-Washougal Rotary’s financial support and was installed by the Washougal School District’s maintenance team. The location of the tree mural in the library ensures that all students and staff who visit the space each week will benefit from the calming effects of nature.

Research supports the idea behind the project, as studies have shown that exposure to nature—whether through direct views of the outdoors or immersive natural imagery—can improve attention, focus, creativity, and emotional well-being. The installation reflects the district’s commitment to providing students with an enriching environment that promotes both academic and emotional growth.

“This donation highlights the positive impact that strong community partnerships can have on our students’ learning experiences,” said Aaron Hansen, Superintendent of Washougal School District. “We are incredibly grateful to the Camas-Washougal Rotary for their continued dedication to supporting our schools and the district.”

The Camas-Washougal Rotary has long been a valued partner in the district, making countless contributions that support both students and staff. This donation, which enhances the learning environment at Hathaway Elementary, is just one of many ways the Rotary continues to make a difference in the community.

"We are so pleased to support this wonderful project that will bring a little bit of nature into Hathaway Elementary’s library," said Ernesto Rodriguez, Rotary member and community advocate. "We believe this will not only brighten the space but also contribute to the well-being of students for years to come."

For more information about the Camas-Washougal Rotary and their community initiatives, visit https://www.cwrotary.com/.  Further information about classroom tree ceilings can be found at https://www.natureintheclassroom.org.

Kinderpalooza, a fun event for Kelso kindergartners, early learners, and their families, is Tuesday, May 6, at Coweeman Middle School (2000 Allen St, Kelso) from 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm. The highly-anticipated event is a great way to introduce young learners to Kelso School District and get them excited about entering kindergarten.

Every elementary school in Kelso will have a table with kinder teachers, fun ideas, give-aways, and even some school mascots will be present. Community organizations and resources will also be on-site, including Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Girl Scouts, Head Start, Kelso Public Library, Red Cross, and Youth and Family Link.

At this event you can:

• Register for school if needed (even if you’ve already registered, please come)

• Meet Kelso staff

• Board and ride a school bus

• Learn about summer learning activities in our community

• Get information about the breakfast and lunch program

• Learn how to become a parent volunteer

• Talk to a school nurse about medications and immunizations

• Take a picture at the Class of 2038 photo booth

• Enjoy some snacks

• AND MORE!!!!

For additional information or questions, families can contact their school office or email ly.learning@kelsosd.org">early.learning@kelsosd.org.

Can’t make it to Kinderpalooza?

Kindergarten registration is open in Kelso for children who will be five years old by August 31, 2025.  There are two ways to register:

1. Fill out a paper packet. Enrollment packets may be picked up at any elementary school or downloaded from the Kelso School District (KSD) website at bit.ly/enrollatksd.

2. Enroll online at bit.ly/enrollatksd.

To determine which school children should attend, families can enter their address at bit.ly/school-site. Documents needed for enrollment include: birth certificate, proof of residency, and immunization records.

Applications opened on March 1 for Transition to Kindergarten (TK) and Preschool Pups. These programs serve early learners ages 3 to 4.  

TRANSITION TO KINDERGARTEN (TK)

Transition to Kindergarten (TK) is a FREE pre-kindergarten program for children who will be four years old by August 31, 2024, and would benefit from additional preparation to be successful in kindergarten the following year. Classrooms are staffed by certificated teachers and paraeducators.

• Full day, five days a week

• Access to transportation (for those not in identified walking boundaries), specialists, recess, lunch, and all aspects of the kindergarten school day

• To the greatest extent possible, students will be placed for TK at their home school

Families can learn more at bit.ly/ksd-early and can apply for the program online at bit.ly/ksd-tk-app.

PRESCHOOL PUPS

Preschool Pups is a FREE, inclusive preschool program comprised of typically-developing children who play and learn alongside children with disabilities. This program is housed at Catlin site and open to all Kelso families.

• Open to three- and four-year-olds, must turn three by August 31, 2024

• Morning and afternoon sessions, four half-days a week

• Morning session provides breakfast; afternoon session provides lunch

Families can learn more at bit.ly/ksd-early and can enroll for the program online at Catlin.

Not sure which program is right for your child? For a detailed comparison between TK, Preschool Pups, and Head Start—including program staffing, calendars, and qualifications—visit bit.ly/ksd-early or click here for the document pdf.

About Kelso School District
Kelso School District has a goal of 100% (bit.ly/ksd-100) of students graduating high school and having post-secondary plans for college, career, trades, or military. Our mission is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world.  When we asked students and staff what makes Kelso strong, with 45 voices, there was one clear answer (bit.ly/ksd-strong).

Evergreen Virtual Academy - 04/24/25
 

EVERGREEN VIRTUAL ACADEMY NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS April 24, 2025, 6:30PM Evergreen Virtual Academy Board Members are Hereby notified that a Session of the Board will be held via Zoom Webinar at https://evergreenvirtual-org.zoom.us/j/86346138790
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 301 715 8592

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 21, 2025

CLARK COUNTY FAIR (WA.) CONTACT:

Dianne Danowski Smith, 503-202-7019  (media use only)

HEADLINER CONCERTS ANNOUNCED AND MUSIC TICKET SALES OPENING FOR THE 2025 CLARK COUNTY FAIR

Sales open April 25, 2025- see below for links to graphic /promotional assets

(Ridgefield, Wash.)  -  Spend a few of ‘The Best 10 Days of Summer’ at any of the three headlining, live concerts happening August 1, 2 and 3, at the Clark County Fairground’s Toyota Grandstands during the 2025 Clark County Fair happening in August. The concert series is sponsored by Your Party Center. The full Fair dates run August 1-10.

Ticket sales launch Friday, April 25 with these beloved country, blues rock-and-roll and americana classic rock coming live this summer!

Friday, Aug. 1; 7 p.m. – Brothers Osborne

Brothers Osborne, with hits such as “Younger Me” and “Stay A Little Longer” are one of country music’s most consistently adventurous bands, brothers John and T.J. Osborne are industry award winners in the progressive and still classic country music world, and the faces of the new generation of Nashville.

• The Fair admission provides general concert access. Reserved seating is $30 or $40 per person, and includes Fair admission.
• Graphic assets can be found here (for media use only)

Saturday, Aug. 2; 7 p.m. – George Thorogood and The Destroyers

Bluesy rock that’s influenced generations of musicians, George Thorogood and The Destroyers will bring their ‘traditional rock/blues rhythms, rockabilly energy and boogie-woogie grooves’ to the Pacific Northwest with much beloved, fan favorite hits such as “Bad To The Bone” and “Move It On Over.”

• The Fair admission provides general concert access. Reserved seating is $30 or $40 per person, and includes Fair admission.
• Graphic assets can be found here. Username = marketing; password = thorogood  (for media use only)

Sunday, Aug. 3; 7 p.m. – Kansas

Kansas, called ‘America’s legendary rock band,’ and arguably a top American icon and classic, has topped its success in selling more than 30-million albums worldwide over its 52 years. Their well-known hits include, “Dust In The Wind,” “Carry On Wayward Son” and many more.

• The Fair admission provides general concert access. Reserved seating is $30 or $40 per person, and includes Fair admission.
• Graphic assets can be found here  (for media use only)

Beginning April 25, tickets can be purchased online at https://www.clarkcoeventcenter.com/p/tickets. The Your Party Center concert series happens at the Toyota Grandstands at the Clark County Fairgrounds. Cancellations and/or ticket refunds will not be allowed.

                                                                                             # # #

About the 2025 Clark County Fair

Celebrating 156 years as the region’s classic summer community event, the 2025 Clark County Fair promises its Your Party Center’s sponsored signature concert series at the Toyota Grandstands, carnival rides, community stage entertainment, thrills, great eats, contests, family-friendly fun, educational exhibits, farm shows and award-winning home and textile showings.

Sponsors include Fred Meyer, Maletis Beverage, C-TRAN, Star Rentals, Waste Connections, Toyota, Rodda Paint, Vancouver Mall, Coca Cola, People's Community Federal Credit Union, Gaynor's Automotive, Odom Corporation, EZ Propane, Your Party Center, Riverview Bank, Breaking Ground Excavation, Mattress Firm, Addiction Powersports NW, Wilco Farms, Cecilia Adalyn, Dot Donuts,

La Quinta/Wyndam Hotels, Tractor Supply, JW World/NW Getaways, Pacific Office Automation,

International Graphics & Nameplates Inc., Herc Rentals, Excavator Rental Services, Port of Vancouver, River City Environmental, SW Learning Center, Sierra Springs, Quality Inn, Vancouver Midwives, Hampton Inn By Hilton & Suites Portland/Vancouver, American Red Cross, Freedom Towing, Heathman Lodge, Peterson CAT and U.S. Army.

Liberty House, the Children’s Advocacy Center serving Marion and Polk counties, invites the community to attend its beloved Cherish the Children Auction & Dinner on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the Salem Convention Center. This inspiring evening supports Liberty House’s work with children and families facing concerns of abuse, neglect, trauma, or grief.

“Cherish the Children is a powerful and joyful gathering,” said Eva Corbin, Board Chair. The evening features a gourmet dinner, wine, dancing, and exciting silent and live auctions, all to benefit children in our region. Doors open at 6:00 PM.

Tickets are $100 per person or $750 for a table of ten, with all proceeds directly supporting Liberty House’s critical services and programs. Guests are encouraged to dress in spring cocktail attire.

“Cherish the Children is about more than fundraising; it’s about showing our community’s shared commitment to hope and healing,” said Alison Kelley, CEO of Liberty House. “We invite everyone to be a part of this mission, enjoy a beautiful evening, and help make a difference for children and families.”

Liberty House thanks its generous sponsors, including Platinum Sponsors: Scenic Valley Farms, Rich Duncan Construction, Inc., Batteries Plus Bulbs, BMW of Salem, and Tomson Burnham; and Gold Sponsors: OnPoint Community Credit Union, Lithia Motors, Gatti Law Firm, and Mountain West Center for Community Excellence.
To purchase tickets and learn more, visit: libertyhousecenter.org/auction
________________________________________
Event Details:
What: Cherish the Children Auction & Dinner
When: Thursday, May 8, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Where: Salem Convention Center, 200 Commercial St SE, Salem, OR
Tickets: $100 per person | $750 for a table of ten
Dress Code: Spring cocktail attire
Website: libertyhousecenter.org/auction

About Liberty House:
Liberty House is the Children’s Advocacy Center for Marion and Polk counties, providing expert assessments, therapy, prevention, and support services to children and families navigating concerns of abuse or trauma. Learn more at libertyhousecenter.org.

The Salem Clinic Medical Foundation is proud to present internationally acclaimed positive psychology expert and New York Times bestselling author Shawn Achor for a special free event on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the historic Elsinore Theatre in downtown Salem.

Achor, renowned for his books:The Happiness Advantage and Big Potential, as well as his TED Talk “The Happy Secret to Better Work,” which has garnered over 25 million views, will share insights on how cultivating a positive mindset can unlock greater success and well-being in individuals and communities. His work has impacted audiences in over 50 countries, including Fortune 100 companies, Camp David, Harvard University, and underserved communities worldwide.

Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with the program starting at 7:00 p.m. The evening will commence with highlights of inspiring initiatives in Salem, followed by Achor’s keynote address and a community call to action. This event is not a fundraiser; attendees are simply encouraged to bring an open mind.

Tickets are free and can be obtained exclusively online. General admission seating begins at Row M on the main floor.

For more information and to reserve your tickets, please visit the Elsinore Theatre’s official event page: Elsinore Theatre.

About Salem Clinic Medical Foundation: The Salem Clinic Medical Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of Mid-Valley residents by fostering strategic partnerships and developing a legacy of impactful programming and initiatives. salemclinicmedicalfoundation.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Monday, April 21, 2025

Authors Beth Piatote, Dan Flores will be part of the award ceremony

BEND, OR — Time is running out! Writers exploring themes around desert landscapes are invited to enter the 11^th annual Waterston Desert Writing Prize. The submission window is open now through May 1, 2025, at 11:59 pm.

This prestigious award, a program of the High Desert Museum, celebrates proposals for outstanding literary nonfiction dedicated to the literal and figurative exploration of desert landscapes.

This year’s winner will receive a $3,000 cash award and be recognized with a reception and reading at the Museum in Bend, Oregon, on September 25, 2025. Tickets are available now at highdesertmuseum.org/waterston-award-ceremony-2025.

“The Waterston Desert Writing Prize is now in its 11^th year of celebrating desert regions and landscapes,” said Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “These works recognize the vital role deserts play and have been engaging, eloquent reads. We look forward to seeing what this year’s submissions tell us.”

Serving as guest judge this year is Beth Piatote (Nez Perce, Colville Confederated Tribes). Writer, professor and language activist, Piatote is the author of two books: the scholarly monograph Domestic Subjects: Gender, Citizenship, and the Law in Native American Literature (2013) and a mixed-genre collection entitled The Beadworkers: Stories (2019). She has written a number of plays, including a Native American retelling of the ancient Greek play, Antigone. Antikoni premiered at the Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles in 2024. Piatote is an associate professor of English and Comparative Literature at the University of California, Berkley. She has served as a guest judge on literary award panels including the PEN America and the Poetry Foundation.

Dan Flores, Ph.D., will serve as the 2025 keynote speaker. Originally from Louisiana but now based near Santa Fe, New Mexico, Flores was the A.B. Hammond Professor of the History of the American West at the University of Montana. A prolific writer with 11 books to his name, Flores’s most recent works were 2023 Rachel Carson Book Prize winner Wild New World: The Epic Story of Animals and People in America and New York Times bestseller, Coyote America: A Natural and Supernatural History (2016). His essays have appeared in newspapers and magazines across the country including The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, and Time Magazine. Flores focuses on nature writing and the biographies of animals. His work has earned him honors from Pen America, the Society of Environmental Journalists, the Sigurd Olsen Nature Writing Awards, the Great Plains Distinguished Book Awards, the National Outdoor Book Awards, and Phi Beta Kappa's Ralph Waldo Emerson Prizes.

The Prize was established in 2014, inspired by author and Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston’s love of the High Desert — a region that has been her muse for more than 40 years. The Waterston Desert Writing Prize celebrates writers whose nonfiction book proposal reflects a similar connection to a desert anywhere in the world.

“The tangible encouragement and important literary recognition the Prize provides gives the winner a needed boost on the way to realizing their proposed project,” said Waterston. “The Prize brings to light new perspectives on a wide range of desert-related topics, from the desertification of a reef in the ocean, the adaptability of certain desert flora and fauna, the effect of rising temperatures on particular life forms, or the timeless call of deserts worldwide as the place to meet oneself head on.”

Emerging, mid-career and established nonfiction writers who illustrate artistic excellence, sensitivity to place and desert literacy with the desert as both subject and setting are invited to apply. The award supports literary nonfiction writers who are completing, proposing or considering the creation of a book-length manuscript. It is recommended that the writing sample submitted is part of the proposed project or closely represents it in content and style.

Past winners of the Prize include Leath Tonino (2024), Anna Welch (2023) and Caroline Tracey (2022). A full-time freelance writer, Tonino’s submission Nooks and Crannies: Mapping the (Unmappable) Waterpocket Fold with Prose Vignettes is a documentation of his outdoor encounters in Utah’s Waterpocket Fold, the sandstone that forms the spine of Capitol Reef National Park. He was joined by keynote speaker Tucker Malarkey and guest judge Sam Waterston.

To learn more about the Waterston Desert Writing Prize and how to submit an entry, visit highdesertmuseum.org/waterston-prize.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

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

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LANDMARK ARTS AND CULTURE FUNDING INFUSES $21M

‘Love Letter’ Delivers Funds to 315 Nonprofits Over Three Years
 

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon arts and culture nonprofits are finding new strength from a $53 million investment, as they continue the slow process of rebuilding from the pandemic. Oregon Community Foundation announced Monday that it has provided or committed its portion of that funding. OCF’s Oregon Arts and Culture Rebuilding Program has now sent $21 million in critical support to 315 organizations over three years.

Grants supported a wide range of needs, including:

• Flexible support for operations and immediate needs, including for small-budget organizations and those supporting historically marginalized communities
• Facility renovation, new equipment, deferred maintenance or building construction
• New or expanded initiatives to adapt, innovate, build resilience or boost impact

“When Oregon’s arts and culture leaders asked us to go beyond keeping the lights on, we listened,” said Lisa Mensah, OCF President and CEO. “We said ‘yes’ to going big, and they responded with vision, creativity and determination. We called this investment a ‘love letter’ to express our appreciation for how they help communities thrive. We’re proud to stand with our arts and culture partners every step of the way.”
 

The original funding announcement in March 2024 was a partnership with Oregon state lawmakers and the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation to pump a total of $52 million into Oregon’s arts and culture sector, which has been beleaguered by a slower-than-expected recovery from the pandemic. OCF originally allocated $20 million. Generous OCF donors contributed another $1 million in donations.
 

The plan provided immediate relief to major arts organizations, including the High Desert Museum, Oregon Ballet Theatre, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Oregon Symphony, Portland Art Museum, Portland Center Stage and Portland Opera.
 

OCF launched the Oregon Arts and Culture Rebuilding Program in June 2024 to provide flexible funding for organizations of all sizes. In their applications, nonprofit leaders highlighted the role of arts and culture in community and workforce development, cultural preservation, individual well-being and local economies. Many organizations focused on new artistic work, accessibility and low-cost programming.
 

The Arts and Culture Rebuilding Program played a critical role in Oregon Ballet Theatre’s strategic recovery plan.
 

“These funds continue to help OBT not only address some of the short-term financial deficits left from the pandemic but also give shape to a new vision for the future of OBT and the critical role we play in the state of Oregon,” said Shane Jewell, Executive Director of Oregon Ballet Theatre. “When we look back at how arts organizations managed their post-pandemic recovery, the gift from OCF, combined with the Miller Foundation and the state, will stand out as a turning point.”
 

Organizations seeking support ranged from large urban organizations to small, rural and culturally specific nonprofits.
 

“The Oregon Arts and Culture Rebuilding Program helped us restore staffing to pre-COVID levels,” said Elizabeth A. Woody, Executive Director of The Museum at Warm Springs. “We were able to add a key staff member in our archives and collections departments, strengthening core operations and programming. We’re incredibly grateful.”
 

Among the grant recipients was Gallery Theater in McMinnville, which received funding to replace its 55-year-old elevator.
 

“Many of our community members couldn’t access key areas like our tech booth, dance studio or costume shop,” said board member Charity Livingston. “Thanks to OCF’s focus on infrastructure, we can finally welcome our full community back to every level of our theater.”
 

Read a full list of grants here.

About

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In 2024, OCF distributed more than $211 million in grants and scholarships in every county in Oregon in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.
 

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The 15-panel traveling exhibit will be displayed at Oregon Historical Society’s Patricia Reser and William Westphal Pavilion from April 28 through April 30 and highlighted at a free public event on April 30 at 6:00 pm, “50 Years of Vietnamese Contributions to Oregon.” 

Portland, OR — The Oregon Historical Society (OHS) is hosting This is Vietnamese Portland, a 15-panel traveling exhibit highlighting stories from the Vietnamese Portland: Memory, History, Community archive housed at Lewis & Clark College’s Watzek Library. The bilingual (English and Vietnamese) exhibit will be on display at OHS’ Patricia Reser and William Westphal Pavilion from April 28 through April 30 for all to see without museum admission. OHS is also hosting an event on April 30 at 6pm that highlights the art of Lê Quang Vinh called 50 Years of Vietnamese Contributions to Oregon. This free public event features community leaders Paul Vu and Representative Thuy Tran, as well as Zoë Maughan BA ‘19, who works in special collections at Watzek and is the project manager of Vietnamese Portland.

“The war in Vietnam deeply affected the lives not only of Vietnamese people but also of many Americans who served in the military during that time, and of their loved ones,” said Kerry Tymchuk, OHS Boyle Family Executive Director. “Like all history, the story of how the war in Vietnam shaped the lives of Oregonians cannot be contained in a single point of view. This program’s focus is on a few of those points of view — Vietnamese Oregonians who have shaped the state during the 50 years since the end of the war — and OHS remains committed to sharing these as well as other perspectives on this history, across formats, in the future.”  

One of the goals of Vietnamese Portland, an archive housed as a special collection at Watzek Library at Lewis & Clark, is to make that impact visible. The multi-year oral history project, now in its eighth year, seeks “to document the history and experiences of Vietnamese Portlanders.” While it includes documents, photographs, and other archival materials, it is mostly made up of oral histories of Vietnamese Portlanders telling their stories in their own words. There are now more than 130 interviews that make up the archive.

“Pursuing my Master of Library and Information Science degree led me to an interest in archival silence, and what does it mean to look at our collections and see what's missing, and how do we kind of fill in those gaps?” said Maughan. “What I love about the Vietnamese Portland project is that it’s a very active project. It’s distinct in that it’s an ongoing living archive. A lot of the work I do is to find ways to bring archives like this into nontraditional archival places like community centers.”

While many Lewis & Clark students have worked on the project over the years, the two current student archive assistants, Nhân Hàn ‘27 and Thoan Nguyễn ’27, have curated the traveling exhibit which features oral histories highlighting Vietnamese contributions to Portland. The exhibit was initially created to tour Multnomah County libraries. It now has expanded to include Washington County libraries and specific events like a three-part series hosted by the Vietnamese Cultural Arts Alliance. 

Working on the exhibit has been a transformative experience for both Hàn and Nguyễn.

“It’s not just about the history, but it’s also about representation of all the voices and communities that have been left out of the stories,” says Hàn, who came to Lewis & Clark in 2023 from Ho Chi Minh City, and is studying economics and entrepreneurship.  

This past year, Hàn and Nguyễn have worked to identify the stories that exemplify three main themes that have emerged over the years: entrepreneurship, creativity, and community leadership. 

“I was born in Vietnam,” says Nguyễn, who is studying mathematics, economics, and computer science. “But I came here and got to know the Vietnamese Portland project, and I felt like ‘Oh, the history that I learned in Vietnam is just one perspective.’ Hearing people’s stories broadened my perspective.”

“The Vietnamese Portland project grew out of a desire by Watzek collections staff to broaden the stories of people told both at Watzek and in Oregon more generally,” said Maughan.

“We have the resources and knowledge at our disposal to get the grant funding that kicked off the project,” said Maughan. “We recognized there was a major need for Portland's greater history to reflect the impact of the Vietnamese population.”
 

Maughan and her colleagues are sensitive to the fact that the history belongs to the Vietnamese community. They always work in close collaboration with community partners, such as Vietnamese Community of Oregon, Asian and Pacific American Network of Oregon, Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization, Vietnamese Senior Association of Oregon, Hội Phụ Huynh, and Vietnamese Cultural Arts Alliance to ensure that the Vietnamese community of Portland is benefiting from the archive and that the archive is a collaborative project with the community.

The eight-panel English-only version will be on display in the Watzek Atrium from April 28 to May 12.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) issued the following statement on the just-released Multnomah County Chair’s 2026 executive budget. The budget proposal includes significant cuts to critical public health programs like communicable disease prevention and tracing and sexually-transmitted disease prevention and treatment. It would also eliminate beloved, evidence-based public health programs like the County's Nurse-Family Partnership—which pays for itself through significant long-term savings and benefits:

“Slashing public health programs isn’t a cost-savings. It’s a disastrous, expensive gamble that puts people’s lives on the line. These cuts could end up costing our community millions of dollars and countless lives. 

We are already facing daunting cuts to our national public services. Cutting local and national public healthcare at the same time eliminates the main pillars which support our communities’ health and safety. Without them, our public health system will crumble and our communities will be left exposed to all kinds of costly, preventable health crises. The lesson coming out of COVID is to invest in prevention. These cuts set the stage for the next outbreak. 

We cannot afford to eliminate health programs which save taxpayer dollars and provide for our most vulnerable neighbors. Nurses in Multnomah’s County’s Nurse-Family Partnership offer home visits to expectant moms to provide the care and support they need to have a healthy pregnancy and teach healthy habits and life skills. This single, life-changing intervention leads to decades-long improvements for mothers, babies and families including better long-term health outcomes, increased earnings, higher academic achievement and less violence and substance use issues. 

Empowering first-time mothers to transform their lives and create better futures for themselves and their families pays off. For every $1 invested in Nurse-Family Partnership, we save $5.70 in future costs for the highest-risk families. When it comes to health and budgets, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This is the type of program everyone in our community can be proud to stand behind.

Nurses, public health advocates and community members are calling on the Multnomah County Commissioners to save our community’s safety net and stop proposed cuts to our public health."

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Celebrate National Train Day at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center
Steam Locomotives, Family Fun, and Living History!
Saturday, May 10, 2025 | 10:00AM–6:00PM
Oregon Rail Heritage Center, Portland, OR

PORTLAND, OR – All aboard for a one-of-a-kind celebration as the Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) hosts a full day of steam, history, and family fun in honor of National Train Day on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 10:00AM to 6:00PM.

This family-friendly event invites guests to step into the golden age of railroading with train rides powered by the historic Polson #2 steam locomotive. Ride tickets are $40 for adults, $30 for children (children under 2 ride free as a lap child), $36 for seniors (65+) and active or retired military, and $115 for a family pass (includes two adults and two children). Ticket purchasers, you'll receive a coupon for 20% off our beloved Holiday Express Train—a festive tradition you won’t want to miss. Every dollar from your ticket supports the Oregon Rail Heritage Center’s mission—from restoring historic locomotives to sharing the magic of trains with visitors of all ages. Your ticket isn’t just a ride; it’s a way to help keep Portland’s rail legacy alive for generations to come.

Train rides depart every 90 minutes from 11:00AM to 5:00PM, taking guests on a 45-minute scenic journey along the Willamette River to Oaks Park and back, led by the 113-year-old Polson No. 2 steam locomotive with assistance from historic diesel locomotive OPR 100. OPR 100 has deep Portland roots—it was the engine that originally moved the city’s famous steam locomotives into Oaks Park for public display and later pulled them out to begin their restoration journey.

The celebration doesn't stop with the ride. Two of Portland’s legendary locomotives, the Southern Pacific 4449 and Spokane, Portland & Seattle 700, will be under steam and on display throughout the day. This year marks a significant milestone for SP 4449—the 50th anniversary of its return to service for the 1975–76 American Freedom Train, which toured the country in honor of the U.S. Bicentennial. Restored in 1974 after years on static display, SP 4449 traveled more than 24,000 miles across 21 states, serving as a powerful symbol of American innovation and unity. Today, it remains one of the most iconic steam locomotives in the world.

Joining these giants will be a very special guest from Union Pacific Railroad: the brand-new Lincoln Locomotive No. 1616, making its first public appearance as part of its official national debut tour—right here in Portland.

Unveiled on Presidents Day 2025, Union Pacific’s Locomotive No. 1616 is a striking commemorative engine honoring President Abraham Lincoln, who signed the Pacific Railway Act of 1862, creating Union Pacific and authorizing construction of the transcontinental railroad. This act helped unite the country during a pivotal moment in history and laid the groundwork for the nation’s explosive economic growth.

“America’s history is Union Pacific’s history,” said Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena. “By signing the Pacific Railway Act of 1862, President Lincoln created our railroad and ignited The Great Race to connect the country and fuel the economy – roles our industry still plays today.”

The Lincoln locomotive is the second presidential engine in Union Pacific’s Heritage Fleet, joining No. 4141, created in honor of President George H.W. Bush. No. 1616 features a unique paint scheme inspired by Lincoln’s era, with design elements that nod to locomotive No. 119, famously present at Promontory Summit, Utah, for the golden spike ceremony marking the completion of the first transcontinental railroad.

Painted by Union Pacific employees, No. 1616 will serve as a traveling ambassador for American railroading, and Portland is proud to be the first stop on its cross-country debut tour. This striking engine will visit communities across the nation to highlight the enduring impact of railroads on our country’s past, present, and future.

Bringing this locomotive to Portland is a significant honor, and its presence at National Train Day reflects Union Pacific’s ongoing commitment to community engagement, rail history, and innovation. John Turner, Sr. Vice President–Northern Region at Union Pacific, is scheduled to speak, alongside Rick Franklin, President of ORHF, and other civic and community leaders who will be joining us to mark this special occasion.

Visitors will also enjoy:

• Model railroad displays showcasing intricate train layouts
• Four food trucks with tasty offerings
• Tabling by rail-focused partners including Operation Lifesaver, Willow Creek Railroad, Union Pacific, Friends of the Washington Park and Zoo Railway, Santiam Excursions, and Albany & Eastern Railroad
• Hands-on activities, education, and railroad fun for the entire family

“This event is a celebration of the Pacific Northwest’s railroading legacy and the role Portland plays in preserving it,” said Rick Franklin, President of the Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation. “We’re proud to make this living history accessible not just to our community, but to train lovers around the world. We value our relationship with this city and its residents, and we take immense pride in keeping these locomotives — and the stories they tell — alive and steaming ahead.”

Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended at www.orhf.org. A limited number of tickets may be available for sale on the day of the event.

Getting there is easy! Limited parking is available, but guests are strongly encouraged to use TriMet or the Portland Streetcar. The Center is located directly across from the OMSI MAX Station, offering easy access via public transit.

?️ Event Details at a Glance

What: National Train Day Celebration
When: Saturday, May 10, 2025 | 10:00AM–6:00PM
Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave, Portland, OR
Admission: Free to attend

Train Ride Tickets:

• $40 for adults
• $30 for children (under 2 ride free as a lap child)
• $36 for seniors (65+) and active or retired military
• $115 for a family pass (includes two adults and two children)

Ticket purchasers, you'll receive a coupon for 20% off our beloved Holiday Express Train—a festive tradition you won’t want to miss. Every ticket purchased helps power the mission of the Oregon Rail Heritage Center—preserving Portland’s historic locomotives, bringing rail history to life, and inspiring future generations through hands-on experiences.

Tickets & Info: www.orhf.org | 503-233-1156 | info@orhf.org

Press Inquiries: rdevereux@orhf.org

Portland, Ore., April 23, 2025 – The Oregon Spring Cleanup, presented by Portland General Electric, wrapped up this week with powerful results and even stronger community spirit. From April 12 to April 22, over 3,000 volunteers of all ages celebrated Earth Month by joining 130 cleanup and restoration events across Portland, SW Washington, the Oregon Coast, Southern and Eastern Oregon—and beyond. Together, they picked up over 15,000 pounds of litter and marine debris and removed 8 Mount Tabor Parks worth of invasive plant species (963,750 square feet) such as English Ivy and Himalayan Blackberry.

Thanks to the efforts of individuals, schools, businesses, and community groups, the Oregon Spring Cleanup once again showcased what's possible when communities unite for a cleaner, healthier environment.

Oregon Spring Cleanup event highlights

Pier Park Pick-Up: Hybrid Litter Cleanup & Habitat Restoration, April 19

The annual Pier Park Pick-Up, organized by Friends of Pier Park, brought neighbors, local businesses, and members of Portland's disc golf community together to give this beloved North Portland greenspace a spring refresh. Volunteers worked side by side to remove invasive plants, collect litter, plant native vegetation, and spread mulch in native beds. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson joined the effort as part of his first of three SOLVE event stops that day to support and spotlight the ongoing commitment to maintaining this treasured community park and to celebrate Earth Day weekend with purpose.

Litter Cleanup at Wallace Marine Park, Salem, April 19

In honor of Earth Day, Governor Tina Kotek, First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, and Governor's Office staff joined over 50 volunteers for a litter cleanup focused on removing litter and debris from the park and nearby waterways.

"This Earth Day, I urge every Oregonian to get outside and lend a hand to keep our parks and natural areas clean and beautiful," said Governor Kotek. "Together, we can fight the impacts of climate change in big ways and small ways. Lowering our greenhouse gas emissions not only protects our environment for future generations of Oregonians but also keeps our communities healthy and safe. Oregon's air, water, natural lands, parks, and all of the beautiful neighborhoods that we call home must be protected and maintained. So let's all do our part, connect with our neighbors, and keep Oregon green."

Detrash Portland: Earth Day Cleanup at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, April 22

To conclude the Oregon Spring Cleanup on Earth Day, nearly 300 volunteers gathered at Tom McCall Waterfront Park for one of the largest Detrash Portland events to date. This monthly cleanup series focuses on revitalizing different areas of downtown Portland, and this Earth Day edition carried special significance as the final event of the 10-day Oregon Spring Cleanup. Volunteers collected approximately 700 pounds of litter, making a powerful, visible impact in one of the city's most iconic public spaces. With the energy of Earth Day and the collective spirit of community pride, this event showcased the ongoing commitment to keeping downtown Portland vibrant and clean.

"It's inspiring to see so many people come together to care for their communities," said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. "Whether it's cleaning up downtown parks or restoring habitat along our rivers and beaches, every action makes a difference. Litter that starts in our neighborhoods often ends up in our waterways and on our beaches, so cleanups at every level matter. And with spring here, it's the perfect time to refresh the places we all enjoy."

Coastal Supply Hubs Make Cleanups More Accessible

SOLVE's new coastal supply hubs—established in partnership with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and supported by Knife River—are helping to make small-scale cleanups more accessible and sustainable. Located along the Oregon Coast, these hubs are stocked with essential tools to support groups of up to 20 volunteers, reducing the need for shipping single-use supplies and making it easier for local communities to take action year-round.

Keep the Momentum Going: Take the Trash Bag Challenge

SOLVE also launched a new initiative this year: the Trash Bag Challenge. Timed with the Oregon Spring Cleanup, the challenge encourages groups to join cleanups or host their own and then pass the challenge to another team or organization. Now that events have wrapped up, it's the perfect time to pass the bag and challenge others.

2025 supporters

The Oregon Spring Cleanup 2025 is made possible by the generous support of Portland General Electric and other event sponsors, including AAA Oregon/Idaho, CareOregon, Clean Water Services, Fred Meyer, Holman Enterprises, KOIN 6, The Oregonian, Lam Research Corporation, Metro, Lithia Driveway, Intel, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Swire Coca-Cola, The Standard, and PepsiCo.

About SOLVE 

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

Media Advisory – All Media Are Invited

What: Detrash Portland, Earth Day Celebration

When: Tuesday, April 22, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Where: 2 NW Naito Parkway Portland, OR 97209 | Map Link

Event Description: The annual Oregon Spring Cleanup, celebrating Earth Month, wraps up with Detrash Portland on Earth Day, April 22, 2025. Media are invited to document environmentally engaged citizens and interview SOLVE staff and partners.

Between April 12 and 22, over 100 litter cleanups and restoration projects spanned Portland and SW Washington, the entire Oregon Coast from Astoria to Brookings, the Willamette National Forest, Southern and Eastern Oregon. Families, community and corporate groups were encouraged to participate in this collective effort to keep our region clean, and beautiful.

Why: This hallmark event, celebrating Earth Day, unites volunteers and partners from the Pacific Northwest to contribute to a cleaner, greener planet. Rooted in SOLVE's rich history, this event series merges two cherished events: the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup (1986) and SOLVE IT for Earth Day (1990). It's an excellent opportunity for families, coworkers, and neighbors to bond while preserving our region's stunning locations.

Media Crews: Arrive by 9:45 am at the fountain where the Saturday Market is to see approximately 200 volunteers of all ages checking in, collecting their cleanup supplies, receiving a safety speech and event overview, and then heading out in groups to pick up litter in the surrounding area. The event will run from 10 am to 12 pm, with volunteers expected to spread along the Portland Waterfront and adjacent areas.

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
• Lena Ulvi, SOLVE Board Chair, Skanska USA

The Detrash Portland - Oregon Spring Cleanup event 2025 is made possible by the generous support of Portland General Electric and other event sponsors, including AAA Oregon/Idaho, CareOregon, Clean Water Services, Fred Meyer, Holman Enterprises, KOIN 6, The Oregonian, Lam Research Corporation, Metro, Lithia Driveway, Miller Nash, Intel, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Swire Coca-Cola, The Standard, and PepsiCo.

Visit Detrash Portland / Oregon Spring Cleanup on the SOLVE website and the event registration page for more information.

About SOLVE:

SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. You can follow SOLVE on Instagram at @SOLVEinOregon, Facebook at @SOLVEOregon, or at www.solveoregon.org.